Bookworm Wednesday: April

It’s Bookworm Wednesday! The first Wednesday of every month we all blog about our reads, include this graphic below, and link back to Katie and I!

Then you can go through the links to get ideas from others on what to read next 🙂

2016 Bookworm Wednesday dates:

May 4th
June 1st
July 6th
August 3rd
September 7th
October 5th
November 2nd
December 7th

This month I read two books. Well, really just one book because the other one has been a couple months in the making but March is when I finished it.

Ahhh book #1, Reshaping It All by Candace Cameron Bure was finished within days. I read while I took a bubble bath…am I the only one? Say you do too.

And when I was hanging out with my grandpa…

And in the airport. If I can get excited about a book, there’s no stopping me!

Speaking of excited, I was so excited to read this book that I may have driven to the next town over the night before I left for vacation because they were the only store that had it in stock. I mean, we all know by now that I love me some Candace Cameron Bure. After all, I would invite her on my talk show. I have already read Balancing It All

along with Dancing Through Life.

To see what I thought about those, click here.

As for Reshaping It All…I think I had higher expectations for it that it really didn’t measure up to. I was really excited about this one because I remembered reading in one of her other books that she really dove into her struggle with an eating disorder, so I thought that’s what it was really going to be about. Candace definitely touched on the subject but it wasn’t as in depth as I was hoping for. When I think back on this book I remember her talking the most about her parents, how she was raised, and how that affected her physical life (and really all parts of her life). She too struggled with insecurity, body image, etc. like a lot of us so it was nice to see how she put that into perspective with her faith.

There were also parts at the end of the chapters where she wrote famous quotes and Bible verses and to be honest, I just skipped over them. I really wanted to read the content. I loved that she included recipes at the end of every chapter though!

Overall, if you’re a Candace fan I would definitely recommend you read it because you still learn about her and her life, but if you’re not a Candace fan you probably won’t find it very interesting.

 The other book that I read was for my online Bible study: So Long, Insecurity which was over the series of two months.

My Thoughts:

There was soooooooo much content. It was good information, but when you’re doing the study for 10 weeks and you have to read 2 chapters a week it gets to be a little much. This personally moved too fast for me and my liking. Since I can’t cut down the size of the book, I would spread the study out more. I thought there were a couple times it felt like Beth was rambling.

On the other hand, I loved what Beth had to say. I found myself thinking “oh my gosh she’s right” a lot of the time. Beth had a lot of interesting points and I love that she pulled stories of other women into the book as well. There are so many of us that struggle with this ugly beast and it’s so heartbreaking. There were also a lot of verses mentioned that I wrote down and will refer to again. I am planning to put them in the back of my Bible.

OBS Participant Thoughts:

I sent out a survey to everyone who participated in the study to see what they thought. My opinion is one thing, but I also wanted to get the opinions of everyone else who participated.

100% of the survey participants thought it was a good study overall and would recommend it to a friend.

Here’s a few things that our OBS participants liked:

• The message was something I really need in my life.
• I liked the book that was chosen a lot. It was very relatable with good examples.
• I found myself agreeing with what the author said very often and I could apply different scenarios to my own life.

Here’s a few things our OBS participants didn’t like as much:

• I like studies that have questions that you can fill in throughout the reading.
• I felt there was a lack of communication. I wish we could’ve all discussed it together some way.

If you’re wanting to follow along with this study, just purchase the book and go through all of my OBS posts! You still can!

Next month, the goal is to read 3 books, but with it also being the end of the semester I don’t know how much time I will have to read. I’m almost done with book #1 so that’s a good sign. 😉

And if you’re looking for more book posts:

Book(TV)worm Wednesday – March
Bookworm Wednesday – February
Bookworm Wednesday – January
Bookworm Wednesday – December
Bookworm Wednesday – November
Bookworm Wednesday – October
Bookworm Wednesday – September
Books in July
Books (and some Netflix) in June
Books in May
Books in March

Happy reading this fine Wednesday!

So Long, Insecurity: Week 9

Happy St. Pat’s Day, my friends!

Today on the blog, it is our second to last meeting of online Bible study. If you have been participating, make sure to click here to see previous weeks. If you haven’t been participating, you always can. Buy the book by clicking the picture on my sidebar, and go through these weekly posts.

A Word From Beth:

“In this week’s discussion we can start moving the focus off our own insecurity. We will be thinking not just about how we experience triggers to insecurity but about other women and how we can help them deal with their triggers.

I’ll admit that when I invite women to share their vulnerabilities with each other, I’m suggesting something a little scary. Because let’s be honest: a struggling junior high girl who tells the popular girls that they make her feel insecure is, unfortunately, just asking for more of the same. But we’re not in junior high anymore, sisters (and praise the Lord for that!). In some ways, we’re all both the struggling girl and the popular girl. We all wrestle with insecurities, and we all (knowingly or not) do things that make others feel insecure. So let’s be open with each other and respond to that openness with support, respect, and honesty.”

Beth says: When I surveyed men about their take on women’s insecurities, one respondent said this:

“Most obvious is when women are around other women; they try to size each other up and look for reasons to not get along rather than to get along. They seem easily intimidated, whether by physical beauty, character status, or whatever makes them feel that the other woman has more going for her, and a barrier goes up. (pg. 275-276)

1. How do you respond to this take on female relationships? Has insecurity ever robbed you of what could have been a rich friendship with another woman? Has it affected the type of woman you befriend?

She says: I have to admit that there’s more than a snippet of truth to what this man says. We women do sometimes let barriers come between us-and that’s terrible shame. Let’s do our best to break the mold by taking a look at four things we can do to promote security among the women around us. First, we need to stop making comparisons.

Now read from “our constant propensity” to “give credit to someone else?” on pg. 279-280.

1. Talk about a time you fell victim to the “bad math” of insecurity (see pages 280-281). How can we correct our thinking when this happens?

Second, we need to start personalizing the other women. Read from “In order to nurse a rival mentality” to “in Jesus’ name.” (pg. 284, 286)

1. Have you ever felt your insecure or jealous feelings evaporate when something occurred that humanized your “rival”? What happened?

Third, we don’t trip another woman’s insecurity switch. Read from “We all have just enough meanness in us” to “build up our wounded selves at somebody else’s expense.” (pg. 288-289)

1. Tell someone else that you’re feeling insecure requires great vulnerability. How would you react if someone came to you with a situation like those described on pages 287-288 and humbly suggested that you were acting as a trigger? How could good friends or family members handle this?

The fourth way we can help others is to be examples of secure women. Read from “Most women will” to “because it’s as contagious to its counterpart” (pg. 290)

1. Who have been examples of secure women in your life? What impact have they had on you?

When we cultivate the kind of focus where we take our minds off ourselves and think of others first our perspective changes. Our culture tells us to major on the minors, to embrace the superficial and spend our time and energy worrying about ourselves. And guess what? That’s a prime recipe for insecurity. We have to find the way out. Read “Human nature dictates” to “you must lose yourself in something larger” on pg. 309-310 to see how Beth puts it in chapter 16.

1. Tell about a time when serving God or focusing on someone else freed you from the self-absorption of insecurity. Why do you think this happens?

The next section we will talk about today is the passage from Isaiah 58 that Beth quotes in chapter 16 (pg. 317-318). Before you read the verses, keep in mind the context. The Israelites were asking why God seemed not to hear them when they prayed. They held up their fasting as proof of their righteousness, but the Lord indicted them with their own actions. They patted themselves on the back because they went to the Temple, but otherwise they did as they pleased (v.3). They were oppressing their own workers, and even their days of fasting were ruined by quarrels and violence. They pretended to do the right things, but in reality, they were self-absorbed and superficial-and probably miserable as a result.

1. Read Isaiah 58: 6-11. What do verses 6-7 tell us about the attitude God wants us to have toward others?
2. According to verses 8-11, what will happen when we adjust our attitude outward instead of inward? What images are used to communicate the idea of renewal and refreshment?

There’s no question that the world benefits when we break free of our self-absorption and serve others. But the amazing thing is that we benefit as well. When we have a sense of purpose that goes beyond our own skin, we are renewed, refreshed, and satisfied.

As we think about moving our focus beyond ourselves, let’s look at some Scripture passages that address our relationships with other women. Keep your eyes open to ways we can build each other up and help each other find security.

1. Read Galatians 5:22-26. How does celebrating each person’s uniqueness help us avoid jealousy and unhealthy comparisons? What role does the Holy Spirit play in helping us accomplish this?
2. Read John 13:34-35. What is Jesus’ command here? What are some specific things that would happen if we followed it?
3. When we get caught up in insecurity, too often we depersonalize those who threaten us. How does loving someone keep us from viewing her only as a competitor?
4. Read Matthew 5:43-45. WH do you think we are commanded to pray for our enemies? How does the act of praying for them – or other people who just rub us the wrong way, threaten us, and trigger every possible security button – change us?

To wrap it all up:

We’ll never be healed of our self-centeredness until we are wounded irreparably with love for an aching world. Insecurity puts us in a prison of self-absorbtion, but when we reach out to others, those prison bars are shattered. Sharing the love of Christ will become life to us, bringing us renewal, perspective, and purpose. May we leave our superficiality behind and reap the benefits God will graciously bestow.

In your journal:

1. Think through your closest female relationships. What things do others do that trip your insecurity switch? Are there things you’re doing that likely trip other people’s triggers? What could you do to change?
2. Consider the questions from page 310. What is your passion? What do you want your life to be about? If you long for something that makes you feel fully alive and part of something specific God is doing for the greater good, ask Him to nurture that vision in you.

Assigned Reading: Chapter 17 and 18. As you’re reading in the book, underline what is jumping out at you, what you think is true, what surprises you, and what seems to be the most challenging. Maybe you highlight the answers to each of those questions in a different color.

Prayer Requests?

See y’all soon for our last week!

So Long, Insecurity: Week 8

Happy Monday!

 

It’s time for week 8 of SLI. If you have been participating, make sure to click here to see previous weeks. If you haven’t been participating, you can. Buy the book by clicking the picture on my sidebar, and go through these weekly posts.

Here’s a word from Beth this week:

I’m excited for this week’s discussion. We’ve spent some valuable time laying the groundwork to help us understand why we struggle with insecurity and what triggers it. We’ve looked at errors in our thinking-about ourselves and about men-and we’ve started to correct those. We’ve talked about looking at Jesus to regain perspective, and about letting go of our desire to play God. This week we get to move into more practical, hands-on material: what do we do when our insecurity is triggered?

Maybe for years you’ve been reacting the same way. You feel threatened, your insecurity raises its ugly head, and almost before you can blink, you’ve melted into a puddle of hysterical neediness. Trust me, I’ve been there-and it’s not pretty. But hear me on this: it doesn’t have to be that way. No matter how entrenched a pattern is in our lives, we are not domed to be stuck in it forever. Our God is a God of transformation! He is in the business of changing lives. But He will not do it without our consent. We have to be willing to enter into the process. And once we begin, we can use one of the potent tools God has given us: the power to choose.

 

Here we go with week 8!

A few things about chapter 13:

The most prized possession God gave humankind when He formed Adam from the dust of the earth was the power to choose. Nowhere do we bear the image of our Creator more forthrightly than in the ability to exercise our free will…
By choosing to have a different reaction prior to a different emotion, we can effect an immediate sense of heightened security. The reaction leads to a new feeling, and the new feeling leads to more consistent reactions. Result? We spiral up.

One of the most common human claims is that we can’t change the way we feel. That may be true, but we can change the way we think, which changes the way we act. And as we change the way we act, the way we feel also begins to change. In the breaking of every habit, someone wills it first and feels it later. (pg.239-241)

1. How do you respond to this idea that our feelings follow our thoughts and actions? Does it seem possible? Does it give you hope?
2. Have your emotions ever changed in response to your actions? Describe a time when you chose to act a certain way because it was the right thing to do, even though it was contrary to your emotions at the time. What happened?

Being secure doesn’t mean always being on an even keel. God made us to experience emotions, and in fact, He also experiences emotions! But our feelings don’t have to be paired with insecurity, and they don’t have to drive the way we respond to situations.

1. On pg. 244-245 Beth gives examples of “self-talk”: deliberate statements you can say to yourself when your insecurities are triggered. Have you ever tried this? What was the result? Which of these statements seem most helpful to you?

On page 246 Beth writes:

God gave you your security, and nobody gets to force it from you. You must make up your mind that the only way someone can take it from you is for you to hand it over. You have the right to hold on to security for dear life in every situation and every relationship. It’s the power of choice.

1. Does it surprise you to think that you have the power to choose security? How would your life be different if you held on to security “for dear life”?
2. What practical steps can you take to help change the way you think? *Check Beth’s suggestions on pg. 257.*

***Here is something to think about from the end of Chapter 14.***

Just because we have estrogen milking up our bloodstream doesn’t mean we have to carry on the insecurities of a preteen girl. We really can grow up. As hard as it is, we really can take responsibility. We really can find freedom. We can sit around and think about how pathetic we are, or we really can pursue some healing-for ourselves and for that preteen girl. You and I…have got to make a definitive decision to be strong for our daughters. And don’t even try handing me the excuse that you’re not a mom so this doesn’t apply to you. The entire generation of adult women in any culture is systematically raising the next, whether they mean to be or not. Every acne-faced middle school girl you pass in the mall, texting on her cell phone or checking out that older guy in the food court, is your daughter. What are you going to do about her? What would you be willing to do for her? Pg. 273

1. What legacy do you want to pass on to the next generation of women?

In these chapters I’ve challenged you-and myself-to take a big step. We can exercise that power to choose, and we can make a change. In this section we’ll look at some Scriptures that remind us that God is on our side in this battle. He has given us the power to choose, and He will help us exercise it. He is the one who does the changing, but we have to be willing to take each next step.

One of the very first things we can change is our thinking. If you’ve ever read through the Psalms, you know that David and the other psalmists provide plenty of evidence of their humanness. They’re not on some super-spiritual plane, far above the world’s problems. When we read some of their words, we sense anger, doubt, fear, and grief. But they also call themselves back to the right perspective-often by praising the Lord.

1. Read Psalm 42. What complaints does the writer of this psalm make? What emotions does he express?
2. The same words are used as a refrain in verses 5 and 11. What does the psalmist remind himself of here? What can we learn from this passage about changing out attitudes by first changing our thinking?
3. Read Deuteronomy 30:19-20, taking note of the power we are given to choose. What are the Israelites being encouraged to choose in this passage? What benefits are promised as a result of that choice?

The Israelites didn’t just make a choice once and for all. The next several books of the Old Testament illustrate that they had to choose time and again. Just like us, they made the right choices followed by the wrong ones. They forgot about the Lord’s blessings and had to remind themselves over and over.

It’s easy to get discouraged when we repeat our mistakes. But we shouldn’t give up! We know that they Holy Spirit is working in our hearts. We are called to persevere.

1. Read Philippians 3:7-12. What is Paul trying to gain? Based on this passage, what things does he value?
2. How might these verses encourage us as we seek transformation?

When we allow the Lord to heal us and change us, we can have a powerful testimony to others. As Beth writes in Chapter 14,

God cured me of my own gross unfaithfulness. He healed my unloveliness with His own love. As I live and breathe, I am not the woman I used to be, but the fact is, I started this journey because I wasn’t yet the woman I wanted to be…

As long as we’re here in these human bodies on the topsoil of planet Earth instead of six feet under shoving up weeds, we’ll always have a few places that could use some curing. And we won’t need curing just for our own sakes. (Pg. 270-271)

Psalm 40:1-3 says, “I waited patiently for the Lord; he turned to me and heard my cry. He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand. He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see and fear the Lord and put their trust in him.” May others put their trust in the Lord when they see His work in our lives.

In your journal:

1. Write scripts that will help you combat the most common insecurity triggers you face. *See pg. 244-245 for ideas*
2. Ask the Lord for insight as you consider whether there is anything in your close relationships that you need to confront or change. What boundaries might you need to set?
3. Write in detail the legacy that you want to leave to the women who come behind you. How do you want them to view themselves? What do you need to deal with so you can set a strong example? Ask the Lord to reveal these areas where you need His transforming power.

Assigned Reading: Chapter 15 and 16. As you’re reading in the book, underline what is jumping out at you, what you think is true, what surprises you, and what seems to be the most challenging. Maybe you highlight the answers to each of those questions in a different color.

Prayer Requests?

What a way to start our week! Have a great Monday!

So Long, Insecurity: Week 7

YOU GUYS!

I’m so angry this morning!!

I had this entire post already written Saturday night and I went to save it and it said “It couldn’t be saved”, so I copied and pasted it and tried to reload the page. Well, when I went to paste my post in another page…THERE WAS NOTHING TO PASTE. So this post that I spent hours on, literally, was completely gone. Now i’m all backed up since I didn’t get everything done yesterday that I want to.

Angry. This. Morning. Still. But i’ll get over it at some point or another.

Here’s a word from Beth this week:

I have a feeling some of you might not be thrilled to be here today. There are some tough things that we have to face about our own tendencies as women that frankly don’t make us look so good. It can be difficult to face head-on the ways our insecurity can damage relationships and hurt the people closest to us-husband, children, other family members, close friends. I won’t pretend this process is pleasant, but there’s no other way than to hold up the mirror and face reality. It’s time for us to be honest about how our fears sometimes jack the best relationships we have going for us – and then figure out how to change that.

We’re coming down the homestretch of this study, and the most encouraging, practical material is still ahead. I encourage you to press on. In the spirit of 2 Corinthians 8:11, “Now finish the work, so that your eager willingness to do it may be matched by your completion of it.” Translation? Let’s finish strong!

Alright so here we go…

Let’s start by touching on some of the survey results shared in Ch.12. Based on the way the men responded to questions about how women exhibit insecurity, it’s lear that we’re not hiding our issues nearly as well as we think we are. Men see what we’re doing, and they’re not impressed.

1. What were some of the things men pointed out in women as signs of insecurity? Does this list seem accurate to you? What surprised you about the survey respondents’ perceptions?

Some of the men even expressed frustration about constantly having to reassure the women in their life. One husband wrote about his frustrations saying:

“Typical, common, widespread insecurities include looks, body shapes, lack of education or perceived intelligence, neediness, and many others. It manifests itself in nagging, self-doubt, self-loathing, seeking approval/validatoin, and the need for constant reassurance. It gets quite tiring of men who, as we get older, just love you for exactly the way you are. Can you not understand that? We are not lying when we tell you we love you, you’re beautiful, and we enjoy being with you. When women’s insecurities are vividly displayed to us, it turns us off, frustrates us to no extent, and perplexes us. Get over it!” Pg.236-237

1. How do you react to this statement? In what ways has insecurity affected your relationships with the men around you?

As we can see, men are repelled by open displays of female insecurities. In the long run, it doesn’t make them more tender to us, more careful with us, or more loving towards us. Not even more attached to us. It makes them, in the words of another guy, want to “run for their lives”. It may not be fair, but it is definitely a fact.

Read through on Pg. 237 from “after months of research….to women want to be with someone they can respect.”

1. How might your relationship with your significant other change if you were characterized by security and confidence? Does the prospect of healthier relationships provide you with additional motivations to deal with your insecurity?

Keep in mind the convictions that we are talking about throughout this section don’t have to be sexual. The sad truth is that sometimes we feel threatened if our man is truly on fire for the Lord because somehow we think his passion for God negates his passion for us. If that sense of threat causes us to do whatever we can to break down his enthusiasm and drag him back to a safe middle ground, we’re in big trouble. When we deliberately pull a man down from his God-given convictions, we are playing the devil-and we need to recognize it and stop.

1. Share about a time you felt threatened by the convictions of a man in your life? What do you think was behind this fear?

Beth goes into talking about omnipotence and omniscience. Omnipotence is “all-knowing” and Beth says that an insecure person’s greatest need for control is directed toward those who have the most potential to either threaten her security or strengthen it. (WOW). That’s often times why we go after boyfriends, husbands, significant others. Re-read the section on page 208-209.

1. Whom do you find yourself most wanting to control? What do you think is the connection between insecurity and a desire for control?
2. How is appropriate parental authority different from excessive parental control?

“I believe our greatest challenge as women is to avoid trying to control someone toward  what we’re genuinely convinced is a better life. The more insecure we are, the more tempting it is because something is in it for us, too. In other words, if my loved one would __________, then i’d be ___________.” (Pg. 210)

1. How would you fill in the blanks?
2. What are some ways we can combat the tendency to play God in the lives of those we love?

Beth says the bottom line about control is that people will always do what they want. You can’t make them, force them, change them, or deliver them. Only God can. And that’s why He is the omnipotent one. (Pg. 214)

1. Have ou ever come up against the realization that you can’t change anyone? What were the circumstances?

The next issue that we talk about is our desire to be like God: omniscience, or the desire to know it all. (UH, YES). We want to know everything. On pg. 215-218 Beth tells us a story about a woman she knew that found out too much information on her fiancé. Re-read everything on page. 218-219.

1. Have you ever found yourself in a station where you asked for more information than you could handle? What happened?
2. Have you ever sensed that God was setting limits on your knowledge based on what you can handle? Have you ever set boundaries for what you should or shouldn’t know? How do you know when you’re crossing a boundary?

As we look at scripture today we see some ways that we try to play God. Beth’s goal is for us to re-gain the right perspective about God. She hopes that when we see His power and knowledge, we’ll see that he really doesn’t need help.

1. Read Psalm 104: 24-32. Think about the images of God’s power that are included.
2. What phrases or images stand out the most to you? How is God’s power-his omnipotence-communicated?
3. Read Isaiah 55: 8-11. What does it mean that the Lord’s thoughts are higher than ours?
4. How does a bigger, more accurate picture of God help us gain perspective on ourselves and our limitations?
5. God can do anything!! Read 1 Thessalonians 5: 23-24. How is God changing us? What does He promise in this passage?
6. Read Philippians 1: 3-6. What is Paul confident about (verse 6)? How can this assurance give us hope-and cure us of our desire to change others?

In your journal:

1. If you’ve experienced a situation where you grasped for more information than you could handle, ask the Lord for His help and healing this week. Pray for the ability to discern and respect the boundaries He sets for you.
2. Think about the situations in your life that tempt you to try to be omnipotent or omniscient. What do you need to let go of? Ask God to help you develop a plan for dealing with these temptations.
3. If you’re feeling brave, ask your spouse or close friend how you and your relationships could benefit from your increased security. What steps can you take this week in that direction?

Assigned Reading: Chapter 13 and 14. As you’re reading in the book, underline what is jumping out at you, what you think is true, what surprises you, and what seems to be the most challenging. Maybe you highlight the answers to each of those questions in a different color.

Prayer Requests?

Let God be God today. Have a great Monday!

Bookworm Wednesday: February

It’s Bookworm Wednesday! Every first Wednesday of the month just blog about your reads, include this graphic below, and link back to Katie and I. It’s quite simple 🙂

Then you can go through the links to ideas from others on what to read next 🙂

2016 Bookworm Wednesday dates:

March 2nd
April 6th
May 4th
June 1st
July 6th
August 3rd
September 7th
October 5th
November 2nd
December 7th

This month i’ve been reading/spending a lot of time with a faith-based book, a “for fun” read, and a serious/school read.

For my faith-based book it’s been for Online Bible Study…

We’re still reading So Long, Insecurity by Beth Moore and it has been so challenging! In a good way. If you want to participate, you still can. Click the link above or the picture of the book on my side page. Once you get the book you can go through the posts and catch up! It is beneficial to all women (and men) who struggle with insecurity of any kind.

It’s a lot of reading the book, reading the Bible, journaling, and a lot of time. But so, so worth it!

I also started Winter Stroll this month since I got it for Christmas, but then I realized you have to read Winter Street before because it’s a 3 book series. So I had to close the cover…and i’ll go back another time. Sigh. I tried.

So for my “for fun” book, I decided i’ll go ahead and still get my Elin Hilderbrand on by reading her Nantucket Nights that I bought a few months ago.

Another book i’m reading right now is actually assigned for a class, but I think it will help me in my career as well. Actually I know it will because why else would the professor have us read the book and write papers on it??

The HBR’s 10 Must Reads on Leadership is a book compiled with articles relating to leadership, what it means to be a leader, how to act as a leader, how to get others to respect you as a leader. I mean you name it. I’ve had the professor teaching this course for the past three semesters and every semester we have had to read the Harvard Business Review articles from different books and I go through them and really think about how beneficial it will be when I remember this as i’m in the workforce. If you’re struggling with this, whether in work, school, life I think you might find this interesting.

So that’s it for this month!

And to see my book posts from the past…

Bookworm Wednesday – January
Bookworm Wednesday – December
Bookworm Wednesday – November
Bookworm Wednesday – October
Bookworm Wednesday – September
Books in July
Books (and some Netflix) in June
Books in May
Books in March

Happy reading!!

So Long, Insecurity: Week 6

Good mourning, Monday! (Haha!! I originally typed morning to be “moooorrrnnning” but it auto-corrected to that one and I feel as though it might be more fitting ;))

In prep for today’s discussion, we were all to read chapter 10.

Last week our discussion ended with the challenge to spend one-on-one time with God, reflecting the prayer in chapter 9. Were you able to take that time? If you would like to share, tell us how the experience went. Was it meaningful? Humbling? Weird? Challenging? Encourage? What did you take away from your time with God?

Here’s a word from Beth this week:

I hope all of you were able to pray through chapter 9 last week. My prayer is that someday each of you will be able to look back and see this as a turning point in your life-the moment when you decided insecurity was no longer going to control you. May it be a fresh start for all of us new creatures in Christ as we find our security in Him.

This week we are talking about men-how we view them, the insecurities the deal with, and our unreasonable expectation that they will provide our security. Hear me on this: our discussion today is not just for married women or women involved in romantic relationships. Even if your last date was so long ago you can’t see it in your rearview mirror, you have something to add to the conversation. All of us interact with men in various ways whether they’re our husbands or our boyfriends, or our fathers, sons, pastors, bosses, neighbors, or friends.

Women don’t’t have a corner on the insecurity market, Men are insecure, too, even though they may show it in different ways. Let’s have compassion on them as we have this discussion, remember that they are, above all, our brothers in Christ.

As shared in chapter 10, a number of men responded to survey questions on Beth’s blog about their own insecurities. Re-read some of them in pages 181-187.

1. What areas do you notice as common sources of insecurity? Do ay of these surprise you?

*Lots of them included wife’s happiness, worries about infidenlity, physical appearance, relationships, and fear of failure. Hmmmm, sounds familiar right ladies?*

Beth’s son-in-law named fear of failure as men’s number 1 insecurity. And she said he definitely hit the nail on the head.

Two areas of potential failure floated to the top among the responses. In uncontested first place: failure to provide. The fear was so raw and real that it stirred up significant compassion in me, shook loose a few preconceptions, and gave me a new appreciate for what men face…
The temptation for men to confuse who they are with what they make is astronomical. Add economic meltdowns, foreclosures, pay cuts, and layoffs to the landscape, and you’ve got yourself a serious breeding group pro insecurity. The thought occurred to me that the same culture that makes so many women feel inadequate physically makes just as many men feel inadequate financially. (page 186-187)

1. Why do you think fear of failure tops the list of male insecurities? What pressures does our society place on men that feed these fears?
2. How might being aware of these fears give you insight into the men in your life (husband, father, son, brother, supervisor, etc.)?

The survey also revealed that men tend to respond to insecurity different than women. Men withdraw. (Re-read on page 194-195). And why does Beth continue to talk about how women aren’t the only gender that struggles with insecurities? Because more often than not we view men has gods or devils. We should understand they they’re as human as we are. Too often we vacillate between adoring them and abhorring them…neither of which is healthy.

1. How have you observed the tendency to withdraw in the men in your life? How might interpreting this as a single of insecurity change the way you react?
2. Give examples from movies or books or anything that shows our tendency to idealize men and see them as solutions to our problems.
3. Can you think of times in your life when you thought of men this way? How did it affect your relationships and sense of self-worth?

In Mark 8:22-25 we read where Jesus restores the bling man’s sight. This was a literal healing that must have amazed those who saw it and heard about it. The same wonderful Jesus who touched this blind man’s eye can tough us, too, so we can see properly. It’s no less miraculous when Jesus respites our spiritual vision, allowing us to see things (and people) clearly. Let’s look at some passages that give us clarify as we seek a correct perspective on men.

1. Read Romans 3:21-24. What blunt truth does this passage tell us about humans, men and women alike? How does this truth keep us from either criticizing men or putting them on a pedestal?
2. Read Genesis 1:26-27. What do men and women have in common, according to this passage? What does it mean to be made in God’s image? What effect should this have on how we treat men or think about them?
3. Read Ephesians 4:1-6. According to this passage, how are we instructed to live with each other as believers? How are these qualities affecting the way we interact with our Christian brothers?

Beth says: The only way we can develop a healthy, God-honoring view of humans-male or female-is to see them as God sees them. And the only way we learn to do this is from God. When we keep our eyes on Him, incredible things can happen. Our who way of thinking can be realigned.

1. Read Matthew 14:22-32. What fears and carries was peter able to overcome when he kept his eyes on Christ? And why was he able to do this?
2. Fear of the storm, fear that Jesus was a ghost, fear of the impossible (knowing he shouldn’t be able to walk on water!). What happened when Peter noticed the wind and looked down the waves?

We sometimes criticize Peter for losing his nerve so quickly, but let’s not forget the guts it took to step out of the boat in the first place. Peter was  fisherman and had spent a lot of time on the water. He knew very well that according to all the normal, natural laws, it was physically impossible for him to step on the water. Yet when his eyes and thoughts were fixed on Jesus, he was able to get out of the boat. He knew that if Jesus was calling him, nothing else mattered. The storm was scary, but Jesus was more powerful. The water was wild and wet and decidedly not solid ground, but Jesus could transform it. Peter knew that on his own he was weak and sinful and afraid, but with Jesus in from of him, all of that faded away.

1. Can you relate to Peter? Share a time when focusing on Christ enabled you to overcome fears or barriers.

*When we keep our eyes on Jesus, everything else-even the scary stuff, even our biggest hang-ups about men, even our elephant-sized insecurities-will fade. Looking at Christ helps us regain our perspective.*

1. Let’s finish up today by reading Hebrews 12:1-2. Where should we fix our eyes? How does that perspective change the way we view others around us?

In your journal:

1. Re-read the quote from page 200-201 that starts with “Oh, that we would not fight…to…God-given dignity-and feet of clay”. Write down your needs this week, take the time to pray for others in your life as well.
2. Consider the flawed ways that you have viewed men. You may want to think of a few specific men who have played significant roles in your life and evaluate your attitude toward them. Have you erred toward adoring them or loathing them? Confess this to God and ask Him to correct your perspective.
3. Write Hebrews 12:1-2 and put it somewhere you will see it often. Every time you read it this week, ask God to help you fix your eyes on Jesus.

Assigned Reading: Chapter 11 and 12. As you’re reading in the book, underline what is jumping out at you, what you think is true, what surprises you, and what seems to be the most challenging. Maybe you highlight the answers to each of those questions in a different color.

Prayer Requests?

Have a great Monday!

So Long, Insecurity: Week 5

Half way through Online Bible Study already?? That’s just crazy!

In prep for today’s discussion, we were all to read chapters 7, 8, and 9.

Chapter 7 consisted of stories from other females about their insecurities and how far it’s made them go in their lives. Chapter 9 was a prayer we all will individually looked at, so this week is going to focus on Chapter 8.

Again, I encourage everyone to participate, but if you do not comment at least journal these or talk about them one-on-one with someone!

1. Like I said, Chapter 7 was made up of stories from women letting insecurity creep in and control part of their lives. So which one stood out to you and why? Maybe you share here or journal about a time that insecurity got the best of you and you made a fool of yourself.
2. Did anyone find examples (from last weeks homework) of ways the media puts pressure on women? What did you find? And how did you react to it?

Now that we have looked at all the roots of insecurity this is where we start looking at the solutions and not so much the problems! This is the good part!! We probably now have a good idea of why we’re insecure, whether it’s because of one root or many intertwined ones. Chapter 7 shows us the ridiculous and destructive things insecurity can make us do, and those are things we want to stop! Next we’ll look at becoming secure women. Chapter 8 focuses on Proverbs 31:25. Surely you’ve heard it multiple times throughout your life. This verse addresses the worthy goal of dignity.

1. What images or people come to mind when you hear the word dignity? Who are some women that you know who fit the description? Is dignity a characteristic you asccoeit with yourself?

On pages 148-149 Beth writes: Insecurity is about losing our God-given dignity…Our enemy is hoping we’ll get caught in a pitiful cycle of reacting to a sudden rush of insecurity with foolishness, feeling even more insecure, acting even more foolish, and then feeling vastly more insecure. He wants us to keep digging ourselves deeper and deeper into a hole until we feel completely stuck in this miserable corkscrew of self-hated. Listen carefully: we can begin to break this cycle this very day…The cycle begins to break when even though we may still feel insecure, we make a deliberate choice to not act on that feeling.

1. How have you experienced this cycle? Have you been able to break it in th past? Do you think it’s possible to change?

On Pages 150-152 Beth shares some of her story about dealing with insecurity. In her words: “Healing hasn’t happened all at once for me-it has been more of a process. But I know that Christ has the power to set us free from anything-including insecurity. He doesn’t want us to stay stuck there; He wants to transform us so we can see the dignity we have in Him. Let’s unpack a few of the ideas we can find in the key verse this week of Proverbs 31:25:

She is clothed with strength and dignity.

On page 155 Beth writes:

I have come to a place where I’m willing to be transparent with my security, but I find great relief that human eyes have to see it through the filter-the clothing-of my God-given strength and dignity. I don’t have to stand before you or anybody else in total emotional nakedness. I have a scriptural covering that gives me the courage to expose my most personal self. When you and I are triggered to expose the most vulnerable, broken parts of ourselves through a rush of insecurity, we can train ourselves to immediately recite this truth to your souls: “It’s okay. I’m completely clothed.” An oddly, that very thought all by itself begins the healing. We are not nearly as likely to react with the same level of insecurity when we remember how well covered we are by God.

1. What does it mean to be clothed by God? How does this image help you as you think about putting yourself in vulnerable situations-maybe even this discussion group-where you could be revealing your weakness? (Maybe not to the group but either to yourself or someone else)

Proverbs 31:10 is often translated using the phrase “a virtuous woman.” But the Hebrew term for virtuous is also used to mean “mighty.” Word Biblical Commentary translates the phrase as “a woman of valor.” As we see in verse 25, the woman is described as being clothed with strength!

1. What women do you know who demonstrate might, strength, or valor? Can you think of an incident or season in your own life when those words described you?

***Surround yourself with these women!! Proverbs 13:20 comes to mind for me here.****

Merriam-Webster’s dictionary defines dignity as “the quality or set of being worthy, honored, or esteemed.” Psalm 8:5 says that God “crowned [humans] with glory and honor,” and here honor is derived from the same Hebrew term that means “dignity.” In other words, we are worthy, honored, and esteemed because God gave those qualities to us! We are His prized creation. When we’re faced with insecurity triggers, we can counter these lies with statements of truth. For example,

• God has made me worthy of respect.

• I’m completely clothed by God.

• I am strong in Christ.

• What others think of me is less important than what God says is true of me.

1. Which of these affirmations would be most helpful for you? How can you be intentional about incorporating them into your thinking? What others can you suggest?

You are clothes with dignity! You are worthy of honor and respect!

*Chapter 9 was written to give women an opportunity to ask God, in a time of heartfelt, focused prayer, to restore their dignity and deliver them from insecurity. Since the chapter is personal, one-on-one time with God, most of the content will be addressed in the “On Your Own” part.*

Re-read the part of page 162-163 from “Hear this at a yell…to thank Him in advance because you know that what you’ve asked is as good as done.”

1. How can we approach God with a request when we’re certain it’s in His will? What kind of freedom does this give us?

Now read 1 John 5:14-15 and John 15:7. What things can we know absolutely are in God’s will? How can you approach God with confidence as you move into this week of targeted prayer?

Another prayer God always answers is a request for Him to root out our pride. We talked earlier about what a big favor pride is in our insecurity. Why? Because a big ego makes us put ourselves front and center. We waste valuable time and energy wondering if we’re prettier or smarter or more accomplished that other people around us-and then dealing with the backlash when we come across someone who clearly outranks us in those areas. Everything becomes about us, and too often we can’t see past ourselves to notice the real hurt and needs around us. If we are willing to humble ourselves, God will help us change that attitude.

1. Read Philippians 2:1-4. What does the passage tell us about pride? In practical terms, what does humility look like?

Pride constricts our thinking. Humility expands it. Pride gives us tunnel vision so narrow we can barely see two inches in front of our faces. And, what’s worse, it sucks us dry of energy and compassion. Let’s be honest: constantly comparing ourselves with others is exhausting. That’s why the next passage is so great.

1. Read Matthew 11:28-30. What strikes you about Jesus’ example of humility? What kind of rest do you think Jesus is talking about here?

Beth writes: Jesus invites us to stop striving so hard. We can stop trying to get God to love us because of the things we do. We can stop seeking other people’s approval. We can stop competing in our own internal contests, trying to be the first or the best or the most popular. Those are the things that burden us and exhaust us. We don’t need to hold on to pride! We don’t have to complete because Jesus offers grace and rest when we follow Him. His love is conditional. The value He places on us as His beloved creation is unconditional. You don’t have to earn the right to have respect and dignity-He makes you worthy of it. Praise the Lord!!!!

In your journal:

1. Set aside time with Jesus this week to really talk to Him and pray. Ask him to speak into your life and encourage you with your walk towards security.
2. Re-read and pray through the prayer in Chapter 9. Make it personal and real. God will answer. I am reminded of one of my favorite verses here.
   Matthew 21:22 “Pray for anything and if you have faith you will receive it.”

Assigned Reading: Chapter 10. As you’re reading in the book, underline what is jumping out at you, what you think is true, what surprises you, and what seems to be the most challenging. Maybe you highlight the answers to each of those questions in a different color.

Prayer Requests?

Have a great Monday, y’all! And don’t forget Proverbs 31:25 this week.

So Long, Insecurity: Week 2

Week two is here!

The reading for this week was the Chapter 2 and 3.

Week 2 is all about how insecurity affects us. We read that before we can really cut insecurity out of our lives we need to understand what it is. To be completely honest, there may be some envy among us bloggers. As Beth states in her leader’s guide: Let’s not let envy get in the way of the support a group like this can offer. Let’s pray that we can see each other clearly and with hearts of compassion not comparison.

So how do we know if we have a problem with insecurity? Beth says in Chapter 2:

“We all have insecurities. They piggyback on the vulnerability in our humanity. The question is whether or not our insecurities are substantial enough to hurt limit, or even distract us from profound effectiveness or fulfillment of purpose. Are they cheating us of the power and abundant life Jesus flagrantly promised?…I’m convinced many women-if not most-have enough insecurity to hinder them.” Pg. 15-16

1. Share a specific time in your past when insecurity kept you from doing something you wanted to do or stopped you from using your gifts. How does it hinder you today?
2. Before we go further, we need to develop a working definition of insecurity. How would you define insecurity in a word or brief phrase?

On page 17 Beth writes the definition of insecurity by Joseph Nowinski:

“Insecurity refers to a profound sense of self-doubt – a deep feeling of uncertainty bout our basic worth and our place in the world. Insecurity is associated with chronic self-consciousness, along with a chronic lack of confidence in ourselves and anxiety about our relationships. The insecure man or woman lives in constant fear of rejection and a deep uncertainty about whether his or her own feelings and desires are legitimate.” Pg. 16

1. What part of this definition seems accurate? Is there anything about it that surprises you? If you feel comfortable, explain how you fit this description in the comments.

Part 2 of that same definition says:

The insecure person also harbors unrealistic expectations about love and relationships. These expectations, for themselves and for others, ar often unconscious. The insecure person creates a situation in which being disappointed and hurt in relationships is almost inevitable. Ironically, although insecure people re easily and frequently hurt, they are usually unaware of how they are unwitting accomplices in creating their own misery.” Pg.23

I particularly loved this definition and really resonated with it. I found it so true in my own lives and seeing it played out in the lives of others.

1. So think about movies and/or tv shows, or even news items. Can you find an example of self-sabotage in relationships? If you think of something, share it with us!!
2. What unrealistic expectations have you placed on relationships in the past? How can we become more conscious of our negative pattern in relationships?
   • Are you the one thinking he’s going to text you every morning to say “good morning”? Do you think he’s going to tell you how beautiful you are every day?
   • It can be in regards to your friendships as well.

Beth then moves on to discuss in chapter 3 about the “false positive” on page 36-37 when she was in a conversation with a friend and the friend mentions how she can’t imagine Beth struggles with insecurity…because she’s so tiny. The false positive is one thing that we think would make us more secure in all things.

1. Look at the list on page 38 of false positives. Which ones really stand out to you the most? Can you identify which is your false positive – the one thing you think would make you secure?

Our insecurities are too deeply rooted within us to be easily fixed. Although we have unhealthy ways of thinking, we are not hopeless because we have Christ in us. Nothing can make us secure, not a husband, or a fit body, or a prettier face. Nothing but Jesus.

1. So read Romans 8:9. What hope does this verse offer?
2. Read 2 Corinthians 4:7. What words does this verse use to describe Christ living within us? How should this transform the way we view ourselves?

Beth shares about how her own insecurities affect her view of God. Read on page 18 from “This morning I went on a walk…to…I wonder if you can relate.”

1. Read Psalm 139:1-4, 13-14. What does this passage reveal about how well God knows us? How does He view us,e even with that full knowledge?
2. Then read Ephesians 2:10. How are believers described in this verse What impact should this truth make on how you view yourself and live your life?
3. Then read 1 Peter 2:9-10. How are believers described in this passage? What is our purpose?

In your journal:

1. What barriers does insecurity place on you that you want to be free from?
2. Also, re-read Psalm 139, Ephesians 2:10, 1 Peter 2:9-10 every day this week. And just think about them.
3. Re-read the challenge Beth put at the end of chapter 3 on page 43: “Let healthy, utterly whole, and completely secure part of us increasingly overtake our eaten vessels until it drives our every emotion, reaction, and relationship. When we allow God’s ruth to eclipse every false positive and let our eyes spring open to the treasure we have, there in hHis glorious reflection we’ll also see the treasure we are. And the beauty of the Lord our God will be upon us.”

Assigned Reading: Chapter 4. As you’re reading in the book, underline what is jumping out at you, what you think is true, what surprises you, and what seems to be the most challenging. Maybe you highlight the answers to each of those questions in a different color.

Prayer Requests: How can we be praying for you this week?

**If anyone is wanting to join the study, just purchase the book (click the picture on my sidebar) so you can follow along with us!! We’d love to have you.**

Ephesians 2:10

So Long, Insecurity: Introduction

Oh, friends. I am EXCITED about today. Months ago, I brainstormed the idea of an online Bible study. My Church has a young adult’s Bible study, but it’s always on Tuesday nights. I can’t ever go because my school schedule is Tuesday/Thursday. However, I want to consistent with my Bible reading, praying, worshipping, and connecting with other Christ-followers. When I realized there are a lot of us here in the blog world that don’t have that extra time to meet with a study group, or have friends that they feel comfortable spending time with, etc. I asked myself why the heck I couldn’t start a study online?

So I did.

And I told y’all.

And some of you decided to take the leap of faith with me.

So here we are, the very first week of our study of Beth Moore’s “So Long, Insecurity.” Right now there are 8 of us doing the study, if you’d like to join, click the picture!

And I hope you all look like I do right now. No make-up, yoga pants, book in your hand, big ol’ smile on your face, and hair thrown up in a crazy bun…because that’s the joy of this OBS thing! 🙂

It’s going to be the perfect way to start our work week/school week/week in general. While you have a whole week to do your reading, I would encourage you to carve aside the same time every week for this study. Make it a routine so you don’t forget!

I’m planning to stay a week ahead of you all so that if anyone has any questions they can ask. Plus I think it will move a lot more smoothe that way 🙂 That said, i’ve already read the first part (that’s assigned at the end of this post).

This week is just going to be an introduction week, so let’s start off by “introducing” ourselves. I’ll post mine in the comments section too!

1. What is your name and where are you from?

2. What’s your blog title and web address?

3. What’s your favorite past-time or hobby?

4. What do you hope to get from the study by the time it’s over?

5. What do you need from the group/will help you get the most from this experience?

Reading Assignment: Introduction and Chapter 1.

Prayer Requests: What do you have this week? Leave them in the comments and i’ll put them in next week’s post too. Like I said, I want to be praying over each of you ladies. And if you’d rather keep it private please e-mail or text me. XO

Friday Favorites: Thanksgiving Tradition + Fitness Goals Update

I mean, honestly. Can you believe that it’s already the SECOND Friday of DECEMBER?!

As usual, i’m linking up with Erika, Andrea, and Narci for Friday Favorites. It’s Friday Favorites…Thanksgiving in December style?

I forgot to include this in my Thanksgiving post, but i’m probably going to have to go back and add it. A couple years ago I cam up with a fun Thanksgiving tradition. Don’t get me wrong, I love the food that the Holiday brings, but I love the Holiday for just what it stands for. A couple of weeks before Thanksgiving, everyone draws one name (secretly) of another person in the family. For the person that you draw, you have to write them a letter of why you’re thankful for them and then we get that person a little gift. Nothing big, just a little gift.

This year, Morgan had me…and she did awesome. This was my gift from my sissy and she picked it to personally match my office (from a year ago) because she knows how much I love my yellow and grey together.

This year, we started another tradition. Mom came up with the idea of everyone writing something about each other, then crumbling up the paper and sticking it in their glass. After dinner and gift exchange, the person to our right read each note and you had to guess who it was.

I saved my little papers from everyone to tape to my home “desk”…so I can look at it when I need to smile 🙂

Dad said: Molly’s perseverance
Mom said: Focused on health and fitness
Morgan said: I’m thankful your worms (inside joke, she’s referring to my health issues) didn’t kill you and you started cooking more for all of us.
Rick said: I’m thankful you let me pick on you and still be nice to me.
Ryan said: I love your room because you share it with me.

Well, since mom mentioned health and fitness above, i’m going to roll with that.

Month 2 Fitness Goals: Week 1 Update

Wow this week pretty much got away from me and I didn’t even remember that I had fitness goals that I was working on!

• No eating within an hour of a meal. I started keeping a food journal if I didn’t already mention that, and as i’m looking back on it now i’m seeing that there was only 1 day that I didn’t stick to this goal.
• No QuestBars or Larabars more than 2 days in a row. Boo. I didn’t accomplish this goal this week. Sometimes a bite of one of these bars just sounds sooooooo good. Every day. Sigh.
• Continue working out 5 days a week. Yep, check! I’ve worked out every day except for Monday this week.
• Be in bed by 11:00. Oh, yeah. Well like I said this week snuck away from me. I feel like i’m trying to fit a lot of things/accomplish a lot in a short amount of time, so there were a couple nights I was still up and about after 11:00.

Yesterday morning I was running some errands and stopped at Starbucks to pick up a gift card. I have cut back SO MUCH this fall on my coffee intake, which is probably a good thing. In the last month and a half i’ve only had 8 cups of coffee. And usually when I do I get an Americano with soy or a Blonde Roast Misto with coconut milk.

But yesterday I decided I deserved a 1 pump iced mocha with soy. It was the best. Give in to your cravings every once in a while…it’s good for the soul!

Online Bible Study is starting on SUNDAY!!!!!! Wahoo!

Those of you signed up: You should be receiving an e-mail from me today.

Those of you not signed up: You will get a glimpse of what it’s going to be like. If nothing else, just pray for all of us joining in on this journey together. And I hope you’ll consider be part of it next time. 🙂

Annddd last thing today, if you’ve missed any other posts on the blog this week, check them out.

Monday: Month 2 Fitness Goals
Tuesday: Show and Tell: Christmas Decorations
Wednesday: December Goals (A recap of 2015 goals and everything accomplished.)
Thursday: Guest Blogger! Lauren talked about why she loves traveling, and we can too.

Aaaahh, enjoy your second weekend of December!

Friday Favorites: Black Friday Edition

Oh boy! It’s the day after Thanksgiving. We’re all stuffed into our food comas, don’t want to get out of our PJs, and may or may not be debating that Black Friday shopping.

This year, we decided to forgo the crowds. In high school my mom and I would have a blast with Black Friday shopping. The real Black Friday shopping where we’d wake up at 4:00am to get in line at 5:00am. But now it’s just not fun anymore with the stores opening Thanksgiving night.

So i’ll just shop from my office this morning. Let’s get to favorites black friday style! Link-up with Erika, Andrea, and Narci today!

Are you ready for this? Starting November 24th through Monday, November 30th, ALL Stella & Dot sale items will be reduced by an additional 25% off! Prices will be available as marked and this sale will end at 11:59pm PST on 11/30.

This is the perfect opportunity to load up on pretty pieces to add some flare to your wardrobe this holiday season. Speaking of the holidays, Stella & Dot sales item also make for perfect gifts!

Don’t forget Dot Dollars too! For every $50 you spend, you’ll get $25 Dot Dollars to use towards your next purchase!! These are some of my favorite pieces that they offer.

The engrave-able necklace comes in silver and gold and is a nice gift to personalize, which is also why I like the engrave-able bracelet! I’ve seen names, dates, nicknames, whatever you like. These pieces are classy but also personal.

Blue Sentiment Stone Drops (they are part of the sale page and are at a great price!)

I have this cross necklace that I kinda refuse to take off. I love it so! I’ve wanted one forever and finally got it.

And honestly their entire bracelets page has me HOOKED. From the fabric ones…

…to the elephant wishing bracelet…

…and the arrow bracelet. I can’t get enough of them.

These studs need to be in your jewelry box by the end of Christmas. I mean, get a pair for you and the girls in your life!!

I haven’t even gotten a chance to peruse Old Navy’s site because ON and Targ are my go-to clothing stores. But I did have a chance to look through Target’s site. AND OH BOY!

I mean 40% off all clothing for the whole family? Pinch me!

I found the festive, Christmas leggings that I wore on Christmas Eve last year for $12.00 that’s right! I pair of festive, cozy, comfy, leggings for 12 bucks. I KNOW.

I’m pretty positive that by now y’all know I am obsessed with my chambray shirt. If I had to pick a favorite thing in my closet, this piece of clothing would be it. I wear it ALL. THE. TIME. (Even in the picture above haha!)

Click here to shop all the deals for women’s clothing and accessories! You really just need to see for yourself!

This is going to be me today. The two of us in HR are taking shifts, i’m working this morning, while she’s taking the afternoon. So as soon as I get there, I’m going to grab myself an Americano or a Blonde Roast Misto, turn on my Christmas Radio Pandora, and shop shop shop for Christmas. It’s pay day (PTL) and i’ve got things to do! It may not be in my pjs but jeans will have to do this morning 😉

Before we go here’s a semi-pathetic Fitness Goals update  for week 3!

1. No eating after 8:00 p.m. I did this only twice this week, I think??? It usually just depends on the day and when I eat, but i’ve definitely been trying to be more conscious about it!
2. Meal prep every Sunday for the week ahead following the 21 day fix plan. I still have not meal prepped or followed the 21 day fix food portions. I’m honestly not sure why, but I think I might just save this goal for next time.
3. Eat 5 small meals without snacking in between those. I think this week I was more often eating less meals and eating until I was full. The thing that stuck out to me this week was that I really just tried listening to my body whenever I could. It’s been so much better!
4. Work-out 5 days a week. Working out more than that. Check!
5. Cut down on the carbs. I cut down on the protein bars and shakes. I think carbs have still been about the same as usual though.

Those of you who signed up for the online Bible study should have received an e-mail from me this week. If you did not and would still like to join we’re trying to get this moving, so please e-mail me ASAP!!!!!

colorsoflifeblog@gmail.com

And that’s it for this Friday. Good luck braving the crowds today. Or working. Or whatever you’re doing. Have a great Holiday weekend!

**This post contains affiliate links, which just means that clicking on a link may result in a small compensation for the blog author. Thank you all so much for reading and supporting my blog! XOXO**

Friday Favorites

Happy Friday! It’s time to talk favorites this morning with Erika, Andrea, and Narci.

 

Monday morning I announced that I wanted to host an online Bible study for us blogger friends to participate in. Comment on that post or this one if you’d like to join in. This next week I am going to contact everyone to get it rollin’…it’s going to be my favorite part of the week!

Yesterday morning I asked y’all what type of posts you would like for me to publish. I know sometimes I find articles online and they sound boring and not interesting at all. I don’t want this blog to be boring or uninteresting to you. So tell me what you want to read from me because your questions are my favorite!

The other day I was out shopping (not even for me, it was for Christmas) and I stumbled upon a store I knew carried simplified planners. They’ve never had them in stock when I went in to look at one but I figured what the heck i’ll give it a try! Lo and behold this puppy was the only one in the store….and 70% off…and nothing was wrong with it!!!!! I about died and couldn’t pay for it fast enough. I’m officially all set for 2016 and this is definitely my favorite gift to myself 😉

I made my faaaavvvvvoritteee peanut butter cup protein pie last night and had to practice some serious self control as I wanted to drown myself in the entire thing. If you haven’t made it, DO IT! You can thank me later! And I promise you will 😉 It’s better than my non-foodie-blogger-pics make it look.

This girl is coming home tonight! Whoop! She hasn’t been here since August so i’m sure she’s excited to sleep in her own bed. And we’re excited to see her. I love Thanksgiving for bringing family together. It’s my favorite holiday (remember I switched from 4th of July haha)! Not to mention my school has all week off so HOLLA SLEEP!

Fitness Goals Update – Week 2!

1. No eating after 8:00 p.m. I did this every day last week, but this week I only did 3 times! Wahoo! Maybe next week i’ll cut it down to once? I still have issues with this one. Am I hungry because it’s been 4 hours since dinner and I need some fuel? Or am I hungry because I know it’s been 4 hours and I feel like I need something?? I don’t know!!!
2. Meal prep every Sunday for the week ahead following the 21 day fix plan. I still had a lot of leftovers to eat, so I didn’t make anything new on Sunday. This weekend I will! And i’ve definitely been failing at the 21 day fix food groups.
3. Eat 5 small meals without snacking in between those. This week I just ate when I was hungry but tried to be conscious of when it was. Some days I know I ate more than I should have in one sitting, but I just felt like I couldn’t fill up.
4. Work-out 5 days a week. Working out more than that. Check!
5. Cut down on the carbs. From looking in my food journal i’ve noticed lots of larabars or quest bars and lots of my protein shakes. Those add up in carbs along with others that i’m already eating. Less protein bars/protein powder this week!

I’ve realized that last night and the night before I have been feeling very bloated and uncomfortable..usually a norm for me but not lately so this was weird. This week I want to figure out if it’s because i’m eating too much, or the protein powder I used in the peanut butter pie, or what. I just wish I had this fitness thing down already. I feel like i’ve been working on it so long (not just the past two weeks) and it’s not exactly what i’m wanting.

But it’s a new week, so here’s to that. Do something great this weekend! 🙂

Show and Tell: Mission Trips

Show and Tell, Show and Tell, Show and Tell!!!!

Today’s topic..

Mission Trips and Service Opportunities

This is going to be fun, y’all! I love that Andrea just so happened to pick the topic for TODAY of all days of the year…because our sermon on Sunday was about serving. And we’ve just been introduced to mission trips for 2016 in The Dominican Republic, Honduras, New York City, Los Angeles. And I know I want to go on one of those trips, so i’m just praying about which one right now.

In the summer of 2012 right after I graduated high school, I went on my very first mission trip to New Orleans, Louisiana.

I recapped it a little bit back in July of 2014. For some reason the links to a few of the pictures aren’t working (of course), but there are still some on there. When I signed up for this mission trip I really didn’t know what to expect. I just found myself excited and feeling good about it!

We got there years after Katrina so while there’s always work to be done, there really wasn’t as much as we were all hoping. But we were put in charge of cleaning the yard for a house that the Church we volunteered for owned. This is our youth pastor. He was the best and I owe him so much for pouring into my life at that young age.

We cleared out, moved, stacked, rearranged furniture in school classrooms to be moved for the schools to be cleaned over the summer.

We were able to fellowship and study the Bible with one another.

We painted the girls’ bathroom at one of the elementary schools with Arial from a coloring book. (actually Reeana drew and we painted!)

And the boys’ bathroom with ya know, boy stuff.

And then we were of course able to see the city. We explored all around New Orleans one night. It was fun! Especially when you’re with some of your best friends.

We may or may not have slept while on the job.

But we of course had some fun along the way 🙂

I’ll always remember that mission trip. Like I said, I was with some of my best friends for a week in a city that i’d never been to before, glorifying God’s name. There are few things in life that can top that!!

God calls us to serve the world, the community, our Church, and one another.

 “The greatest among you shall be your servant.” – Matthew 23:11

I love serving my Church. On Sunday mornings this is where you can find me. With my 3 and 4 year olds 🙂

Wednesday nights you’ll probably find me with my freshman girls at youth group.

I co-taught 3rd and 4th grade boys at my old Church on Wednesday nights with Reeana’s dad. Half of these boys were pastor’s kids too 🙂

As for our community…my volleyball team in high school participated in Operation Christmas Child, which my old Church hosted. One Saturday morning we all got together to pack up shoeboxes to send over to the kids in poverty and we had so much. Of course we made it competitive because…we were athletes remember 😉 We broke up into groups, shopped through the dollar store, and packed these boxes while eating some BBQ. It was so much fun! My team rocked 🙂

These are some of my favorite memories.

Now, I know many of you have ministries through your own Church that you are a part of, but we just had one that i’m really considering. One Child Matters is a ministry where you pay $40 every month to sponsor a child until they graduate the program. Your $40 goes to pay for health needs, spiritual needs (Bibles, etc.), education needs, and a community for the child to meet others. You’ll write letters back and forth with your  kiddo. It is a commitment, i’m right there with you. I’m praying about this and maybe you should too?? Our Church is sponsoring kids from the Dominican and Honduras where we might be able to go see them on one of the above mission trips.

OH, don’t forget that you can still sign up for the Online Bible Study!!!

Now I can’t wait to go through and look at yours! And just in case you missed any of my previous Show and Tell Tuesday posts:

A Day In The Life
Halloween Costumes
My First Job
The 5 people you’d invite to dinner
Where I was on 9/11
Who I was in High School
My Back to School Traditions
My Home
My Beauty Routine
My Yard
When I Grow Up
Favorite Party I’ve Hosted
How I Got My Name
My Favorite Vacation
My Favorite Room In Our House
How (2 of my favorite couples) Met Each Other
My Groundhog Day
My Organization Tips and Tricks
My New Year’s Resolutions

#cliffhangerfinallyannounced

I had something else planned for today, but i’m still working on it because I didn’t get it finished this weekend 😉

But on a completely un-related note…do you ever have those moments where you’re just like “yep, life is good.” There are just times when i’m doing something and I stop and think “Wow” because there’s just a sense of peace that comes over me. I’m having one of those moments right now as I type this post. And all i’m doing is just sitting here at my “desk” with a winter candle lit, my chia seed water, rain hitting the window, Christian Radio on Pandora playing and homework going on. I mean, I do have a blank and my favorite fuzzy aloe socks on. See for yourself.

But I really don’t think that’s why. I just think God gives us these moments as a reminder that through all the good, the bad, the ugly, He reigns above all. He is in control. And we should put our trust in Him…through the good, the bad, and the ugly.

because

and when you really grasp that concept, there really is a sense of peace that overwhelms you. I mean, this is definitely not me majority of the time. I’m always go-go-go, on the move, doing something, running somewhere, and not at peace but sometimes it’s just nice to sit down, relax, feel those “yep, life is good” moments.

But for the reason you’re here today, do you remember in one of my Friday Favorites posts when I talked about doing something that I think would be great and beneficial for a lot of us???? And then you guys were mad at me because I was all #cliffhanger on a Friday and now you’ve probably forgotten about it????

WELL. You wanna know what it was?!

An online Bible study!!

 Honestly, what could be better than fellowshipping with other women (and men if they’re interested), bloggers, and friends? Before I release the specifics of it, i’d like to know who would actually be interested?

• We’ll interact with each other from all over
• It’s on our own schedule (AND can be in our PJs and fuzzy socks!!)
• There’s so much to learn from the Bible
• We’ll make new friends
• We’ll grow together in our faith
• We’ll challenge one another
• We’ll give some time to ourselves and God throughout the week, month, and year.
• Most importantly, we’ll have FUN!

We would study a book of a Bible, i’ll post questions beforehand, and we will all discuss those questions later on in the week. We can talk about how often after I can get a head count of who would want to participate. If you don’t have a Bible, don’t worry about that. I’ll figure something out for you. I don’t want that to be a reason anyone doesn’t participate. SO please comment if you want to participate, what questions you have, and then leave your e-mail so I can contact you. Or if you’re more comfortable with e-mailing me instead, please do 🙂

Looking forward to hearing from y’all!