"Takin' Time Out"

I have always been on a quest for self improvement, I love to try new ways of being creative, organized and how to better use my time.  I was very blessed as a child by being raised in the church and became a born again Christian when I was 8 years old, however it wasn’t until I was in my mid 20’s I truly developed a personal relationship with my Lord and Savior. During this time with a husband, three active small children and a full-time job outside the home my time was limited but I ran across an author by the name of Emilie Barnes and she introduced me to my first Quiet Time with a devotional called, “15 Minutes Alone with God.” and “More Hours in My Day”.  It truly changed my life.  The devotional had a verse or scripture reading and a small story that really resonated with me.  Shortly after that I started to journal and my 15 minutes have extended to at least an hour or more each day.  Yes, I have to get up earlier but it’s amazing that time with God, reading his word, studying, reflecting on what is going on in my life and being still gives me more energy and clarity than any extra hour of sleep ever could!

If you don’t have a regular Quiet Time I strongly urge you to start small, just 10 or 15 minutes and try it for at least 21 days as it takes that long to change a habit….see what happens.  I promise you God will meet you there and take you on an amazing journey that will truly make a positive difference in your life…

There is nothing like opening your bible, rustling through the crisp pages, making notes in the margins, and underlining verses.  The Bible truly comes to life and teaches me so much!  Today we are even more blessed with technology, I have downloaded “You Version”, on my computer, iPad and phone.  I take it wherever I go.  “You Version” also has some great plans to read.  This year I have been reading Rick Warren’s “Daily Devotional”, Joyce Meyer’s “Promises for Your Everyday Life” and I have recently found “She Reads Truth”, they have different devotionals for the week.  There are other great authors and teachers.  I also, have a daily reading that pops in my inbox from Joel Osteen.  My precious mother gave me a devotional “Jesus Calling” and “Jesus Today” by Sarah Young, it simply amazes me how God speaks each and every day through her writing.   I encourage you to check these out…also, if you have a special devotional I would love to hear from you as well.

It is also very important to find a small group Bible Study.  I have studied several from Beth Moore, Priscilla Shirer & Kaye Arthur in the comfort of a dear friends home.  Recently, I have been involved through our women’s group at church and we just finished an incredible study by Margaret Feinberg, “Wonderstruck”, the choreography and scenery was absolutely breath taking.  The small group study offers a time to reflect with others, share, pray together and have a sense of accountability.

I hope this will help you consider “Takin Time Out” and finding what works for you to carve out a Quiet Time!  It is so important for your body, soul and mind!

Verses that have really made a difference in helping me carve out a Quiet Time & Journal:
“Be Still, and Know that I am God!”  Psalm 46:10

“Write my vision and make it plain upon tables but these things I plan won’t happen right away.  Slowly, steadily surely the time approaches when the vision will be fulfilled.  If it seems slow do not despair for these things will surely come to pass.  Just be patient!  They will not be overdue a single day!” 
Habakkuk 2:2-3 NISB

“All scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives.  It straightens us out and teaches us to do what is right.  It is God’s way of preparing us in every way, fully equipped for every good thing God want us to do.”  2 Timothy 3:16-17 NLT

“Yet those who wait for the Lord will gain new strength; They will mount up with wings like eagles, They will run and not get tired, They will walk and not become weary.  Isaiah 40:31 NISB

“My heart overflows with a good theme; I address my verses to the King; My tongue is the pen of a ready writer”  Psalm 45:1 NISB

 WOW Factor...more to come