I had totally missed it — noticing I ended 2018 similarly to how I began: writing about an attitude of “getting to” do this or that instead of “having to” in both and . Maybe once the idea slipped into my psyche, it quietly settled there and began changing my entire outlook from that point forward.
I’m a fan and advocate for choosing a Word of the Year, #OneWord that sets a compass point (in contrast to a destination), a trajectory, a direction for life. It’s not a think intended to confine or box you in. On the contrary, it’s liberating.
If you can love a word, I loved my entirely-made-up word from last year–. Sweetly inspired by a tee shirt a friend gave me, OYTO was a fierce battle cry, wrapped opportunity-gifts that begged to be opened. My intention stirred awareness that led to results. Simply put, I saw things differently because I wanted to see things differently, and that affected how I responded.
The same is true for being a Get-to Girl. Shifting my attitude from having to do everything — even needing to do anything — gives me a sense of control because I understand I have a choice about my attitude. Necessary chores that could potentially seed resentment, martyrdom, or leave you feeling taken for granted suddenly become opportunities to serve your family. Irritations that stem from people being so human and imperfect are a catalyst for you to remember to live the gospel by your response.
We aren’t always able to control our circumstances or the obstacles and opportunities that come our way, but we can control our response. That’s powerful.
To me, the essence of being a Get-to Girl is 1 Corinthians 10:31: So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do everything for the glory of God. (CSB) Every move you make, including the attitude that companions action, can be offered to the glory of God. Should be done for the glory of God. It’s one thing when we’re facing opportunity or favorable circumstance; that’s when it’s easy. But there have been seasons when my life feels out of control, when a situation is bearing down, or relationships that matter to me are fractured, or grief feels unshakable, or I don’t know what else…. Knowing I can choose how I respond gives me at least a modicum of control, which is incredibly encouraging and empowering.
This is much more than turning a frown upside down. It’s an intentional decision to frame your life and everything within it in light of The Light. Even if “Get-to” isn’t your word of the year, will you join me?
Giveaway time!!
Today, DaySpring is releasing A Workbook Guide to Bible Journaling, “filled with fun techniques for painting, hand lettering, stickering, and stamping…” and I’m here to tell you, SO MUCH ENCOURAGEMENT FOR THE NEWBIE BIBLE JOURNALER. But the content is substantial enough to offer the long-time journaler plenty of new tips and ideas.
If you’ve wanted to try your hand at Bible journaling but didn’t have a clue where to start, consider this a master class featuring and others at a bargain price. The first 600 people who order a copy will also get a free set of two pens, perfect for Bible journaling.
DaySpring was kind enough to offer me a copy, and I get to give one away, too! Entry is simple:
You must subscribe to my blog (new or existing subscriber) and “Like” my brand-spanking new Facebook Author Page, then leave a quick comment on this blog post telling me how you’ll use this book, why you want to win, what your #OneWord is, or something you GET-TO DO that you previously viewed as “having to.” Or pretty much any sort of comment at all–easy peasy! (Only U.S. addresses are eligible to win. Entry deadline is Friday, January 25th at midnight EST.)
NOTE: If you’re a first-time commenter, there might be a slight delay in approval; comments have to be moderated and it could take up to 24 hours. 🙂
- Link to subscribe: http://eepurl.com/dkH4uv
- Link to like my new Facebook Author Page (yippee!!): https://www.facebook.com/RobinBDance
I have been wanting to start journaling in/with my Bible for quite awhile, but I’ve been intimidated by all the BEAUTIFUL examples I’ve been looking at online/social media. I knew mine would never look like that. But my journaling isn’t for a Pinterest board or anyone else. It’s to further my relationship with my Lord. I’d love to win! It would give me a place to start with fun tools too! (Already subscribed & now following new fb site).
Thank you! Cheryl
Yes!! This is for YOU (or every artist who journals!!), to do YOUR best, not try to impress the world. I love your heart, and thank you so much for entering 🙂
As a hospice volunteer, I would use this book to journal bible verses to comfort family members going through one of life’s greatest difficulties. This book looks like it will be a great help for a beginner like me. Already subscribed and I am following your new Facebook site.
Thank you, Anne…both for following my new FB page, but for loving people well through your volunteerism. <3
Anne, your truly an Angel
I have to be honest, I’ve never heard of a journal with bible verses .i would love to use this to make my life more positive
I have been doing a study of Proverbs and it’s so full of inspiration and wise sayings. I would use this book to help me start to Bible journal Proverbs.
My word this year is peace. I have wanted to Bible journal, but just don’t know where to start. This book looks like it has great ideas and directions.
Thank you for sharing and encouraging everyday! You bless more than you will ever know!
Like several of the commenters before me, I have no idea where to start with Bible journaling (is that a word?). This looks like a wonderful resource.
I have tried to journal several times and never feel my work is “good enough” maybe this will help me? I can hope!
I GET TO do laundry and fold clothes….:-)
I would love to start journaling with my bible I think this would encourage more reading and studying. I can’t afford to buy right now but if I don’t win I will definitely look to buy one when I can. Thanks.
Love the thought of expressing my Love for Jesus through art ?!
I love the idea of having your one word for the year. My word for this year is GRACE.
I have looked into Bible journaling but it all seems so overwhelming. I don’t know where to begin. I’m hoping this would help and motivate me.
My word is peace, through all the storms of life!
Trying to hear from God if it is the time to retire. Journals may help me hear from God.
I am looking for peace in 2019. My 2018 was full of dramatic changes that left chaos & anxiety. This chaos & anxiety has left me weary. I have stepped out of the “extra” commitments I was doing to spend time with Jesus. I just need help getting focused in on him.