New Year, New Habits with the Best Chronological Bible Reading Plan + Resource Bundle
Welcome to 2024! A year for growth, introspection, and building some strong spiritual habits. What better way to kickstart your year than by diving into the wisdom of the Bible? Imagine having all the tools at your fingertips to not just start a new Bible reading plan but to cultivate lasting, healthy spiritual habits. Intrigued? Let me introduce you to the ULTIMATE Bible Study Bundle. It’s a comprehensive group of my most-requested resources to propel you forward in faith.
The Ultimate Bible Reading Toolkit
In this fast-paced digital age, we understand the need for simplicity and convenience. That’s why I curated the ultimate toolkit for your spiritual growth—all in one, easy download. Unpack SEVEN invaluable resources designed to jumpstart your spiritual journey and foster a deeper connection with God. Let’s take a closer look at what’s inside.
The Bible calls us to spiritual maturity, but I’ll be the first to admit that I’ve had trouble in the past sticking to a reading plan, or cultivating healthy habits of being in the Word on a daily basis. Things really changed for me when my mental health was at its worst. I knew I couldn’t just “pray away” the depression that was actively eating me alive. But I also knew I desperately wanted the joy, peace, and contentment God promises those who follow Him. I began to study Scripture in a new way, and the web of lies that had ensnared my mind, mental health, and wellbeing began to loosen. Eventually, it fell away completely.
This bundle–is a collection of SIX of my all time favorite resources, and I’m thrilled to offer them to you, for free. Let’s check out the bundle.
1. See the BIG Picture with the Best Chronological Bible Reading Plan
Ever felt lost in the vastness of the Bible? Here is my favorite Chronological Bible Reading Plan—a roadmap through time. Experience the narrative, Psalms, and prophets in a sequential flow, making comprehension a simpler. This has become my favorite way to read the Bible. It’s perfect for beginners or folks looking for an easy plan to follow. It’s not a year-long plan, so simply read as much as you like each day, until you’ve worked through the whole book.
2. 90 Days to Transformation: The Bible Reading Challenge
Challenges breed growth, and I’ve got just a good one for you! Dive into an intense 90-Day Chronological Bible Reading Challenge. This 90 day Bible reading challenge has been updated with a bookmark checklist format for easy reference, as well as the classic one-sheet. This is more than just a reading plan; it’s a transformative journey. I’ll be launching a summer challenge in June–so be sure to subscribe to emails or join me on Instagram and Facebook for details.
3. Reshape Your Sabbath and Reclaim Your Rest
Jesus calls those who are weary and burdened (See Matthew 11:28-30). Developing healthy spiritual habits does not mean adding weight to our already full plates. Ours is a God of blessing, grace, and rest. Make this the year you embrace Sabbath rest–a practice that cultivates trust in God, while giving you the gift of time and peace. The “Reshaping Your Sabbath” worksheet, empowers you to carve out meaningful moments of rest. Unplug, rejuvenate, and enjoy the rhythm God designed for us. Read more about creating a Sabbath routine here.
4. Unravel the Old Testament: Your Guide to Understanding
The Old Testament can be a challenging terrain. Some might even use the word “boring.” Fear not! The Ultimate Bundle equips you with a study guide focused on appreciating Old Testament Law. You’ll gain understanding, but also gain an appreciation for these foundational portions of Scripture. This simple resource enhances the chronological Bible reading plan.
5. The Easiest Way to Journal: Quiet Time One Liners
Creating a habit of reading and understanding Scripture shouldn’t be complicated. Further increase healthy spiritual habits by incorporating the SIMPLEST, most sustainable journaling technique ever. This printable journal page—Quiet Time One Liners is the easiest way to capture your thoughts, reflections, and prayers in a format that seamlessly integrates into your daily routine.
6. Inductive Bible Study Made Easy: Infographic Guide
Inductive Bible Study is a powerful method to dive deep into Scripture. While the inductive method can get very complicated, it doesn’t need to be. I’ve simplified this effective study technique with an easy-to-understand infographic. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned reader, this guide will revolutionize the way you approach Bible study.
Why Settle for Less?
Sure, there are free chronological reading plans out there, but none offer the comprehensive support and resources packed into this bundle.
Ready to Pursue Truth with the Best Chronological Bible Reading Plan? Sign Up Now!
If you’re feeling stuck, seeking clarity, or simply yearning to move forward in faith, start here. This New Year, let’s mature in our faith, and cultivate healthy spiritual habits. Sign up now to unlock this exclusive bundle and embark on a transformative journey. Make 2024 the year you embraced God’s Word, and all the goodness it holds.
Enter your email below, and let’s embark on this exciting journey together!
My prayers seemed to be met with silence. My perspective on unanswered prayer was about to change.
I had been praying for things to change for months. Over and over I asked God to remove the pain in my body and mind.
Still, the pain remained.
I sat on my patio in the warmth of the North Dakota summer sun and contemplated my reality. My body had been forever altered through a freak spinal injury during a low-impact fitness class. I thought surgery would fix the pain, the doctor said I was a perfect candidate.
Yet the pain remained. Somedays it was worse than before surgery.
Prescription painkillers took the edge off. I took them around the clock. Never did I imagine I’d be dependent on pills to function, but here I was.
Where Was God in The Unanswered Prayer?
My whole world seemed upside down. My body had failed, my thoughts were jumbled, my prayers felt stunted. Where was God?
If you’ve experienced blinding pain—whether emotional or physical—you will understand. Ongoing pain can send us drifting, especially when we try to anchor ourselves with something prone to floating away.
Unknowingly, that’s what I had done. I staked my self-worth and self-esteem on my physical performance and ability to work. When that was taken, the structure of my identity and faith began to crumble.
As I sat in the sun, I thought about the seemingly thousands of times I’d prayed for relief that never came. Then I asked myself a convicting question, “Do you worship God because you know He is the one and only God, because He alone has rescued you from the penalty of sin…or do you worship Him because you want Him to give you what you want?” Did my faith rely solely on the outcome of an unanswered prayer?
Prayer Is More Than Submitting Wishes To God
My prayer life had been distilled into one prayer—a wish—whispered repeatedly from my heart: Please make this pain go away. Heal my body. Make things how they used to be.
As Christians, we pray to a living God. This means our prayers do not need to be limited to wishes as though we’re tossing pennies into a fountain. Our prayers can be worshipful conversation. Prayer affords us the opportunity to sit at the throne of the Almighty God, to bask in His presence, seek His divine discernment, and allow the sheer majesty of His closeness to properly align our hearts. Prayer is so much more than closing our eyes to present a wish list (or worse, a to-do list) to God. It’s a conversation, it’s a gift.
In my distress and grief, I’d cast aside those truths about prayer. Day after day I submitted my singular request with no room for discussion, teaching, or transformation. That day in the sun, I faced a choice. Could I muster the courage to trust that God is good, holy, and true despite my physical and mental pain? Or did I only accept His sovereignty when I got what I wanted or didn’t need to depend on Him to move forward?
Maybe you are at a juncture requiring similar soul searching. What will your choice be?
Pain Doesn’t Equal Unanswered Prayer
I chose the former and set my pain up like an altar of remembrance. It was testimony that I chose Jesus, despite the pain of the world and imperfection of human existence. I prayed a new prayer in which I proclaimed to believe that God is who He says He is in Scripture—whether my pain vanished or never relented. As, as creatures of free will have the ability to intentionally trust that God is good and that His goodness can coexist with worldly suffering. Pain does not nullify His righteousness, omniscience or love for us.
God is an ally who sustains and redeems us as we traverse a world where we “will have trouble,” (John 16:33). He thwarts attacks from the enemy and turns them into assets in our personal ministry and redemption story.
When we find strength to overcome the lie that we’ve done faith wrong when we experience pain in this life, amazing things can happen. When our prayers seem to be unanswered, maybe it’s time to reassess the heart of our prayer. Are we too blinded by our ideals to see a gift God wants to give us? Is God trying to perform a bigger miracle that what we are envisioning?
Complete erasure of my pain would have been a miracle, but God did something bigger. He placed peace, joy, even happiness in my heart despite the pain. He paved a way for me to thrive and live abundantly—even in the midst of the pain. Sometimes the biggest miracle is the ability to stand firmly in peace while facing adversity that seems insurmountable (Ephesians 6:10-18).
Shifting My Perspective on Prayer Prepared Me For Trials To Come
I didn’t know it, but I was about to lose my mind. Even after this heart-changing moment, I would spiral into a life-threatening depression. Nearly everything I thought about God, marriage, myself and life would be put to the test, shaken and rebuilt in Truth.
There was great pain, but greater healing. I see now God was never far from me. He was with me as toxic thought patterns were extracted from my mind, poisonous lies were syphoned from my heart and destructive misconceptions were pruned from my faith. Consciously choosing to shift my perspective allowed God to step in and heal brokenness that had caused a lifetime of cyclical anxiety and depression. Starting with this shift in prayer-life, He began reaching in to bring about mental healing that would last. He began giving me something I didn’t even know to ask for.
When placed in God’s miraculous hands, He will take our suffering and use it as a medium to create redemption, ministry and joy. This journey starts when we summon the courage to humble ourselves enough to step aside and trust Him to be the good God He claims to be.
How Can I Help You Hold Onto Hope? I’m Here To Serve You.
Here are a few ways, but I’m always open to new ideas.
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I’ve spent lots and lots of nights laying awake, battling unwanted thoughts. I’ve spent days frozen in fear brought on by ideas dancing through my head. Panic attacks, racing heart, sweaty hands, the feeling of being utterly, hopelessly stuck. If any of that sounds familiar to you, I’m glad you’re here. This is for you. It’s time to take your thoughts captive. Let me tell you what has worked for me.
Not all that long ago the thought of sitting in a nursery with a little on the way made my blood run cold.
I remember sitting in a tiny Mexican restaurant several years ago–nearly in tears as I told Derek I thought it was time to start a family. These were not happy tears or tears of expectation. They were tears of fear. But alas, we were getting older and had been married nearly 10 years. This is what came next. Like it or not.
I’d been laying awake at night, distracted during the day. Being a mom terrified me. My mind had accepted lies (some created by me, others fed to me over many years) about motherhood. These lies told me that being a mom meant life was over. If I hadn’t achieved “success” by the time I got pregnant I never would. Being a mom meant I’d amount to nothing and all the good things God had handed me would be wasted. It meant I would be a failure–to myself, God and my spouse. (More on lies here.)
Lies or no lies, we were getting older. This is what needed to be done. By stating I thought we should start a family, I was giving up on a lot of things.
Intentionality in Thought is to Take Your Thoughts Captive
I will spare you many more details. The story ends like this: We didn’t have kids at that time. My mind went from this state of anxiety and unwanted thoughts to a full break (more here). Eventually I found healing. During that process I started to notice lots of unwanted thoughts floating around my mind. About motherhood, and lots of other things. And I decided not to let them run my life any more.
God had given me the word intentionality (read about that here) and I began applying it to my thoughts. I stopped being prey for lies and scary thoughts and started being their predator. I began to take those thoughts captive.
And today, I’m going to share how you can take your thoughts captive too.
Identify Strongholds
Before you being to take your thoughts captive, you must identify strongholds.
What IS a stronghold?
Until I was coming out of a mental health crisis I had never heard the term “stronghold” used as Christian jargon. A friend gave me this book–and it had a huge impact on my healing. I understood what a stronghold was and knew that was exactly what I’d been fighting for the last few months.
Max Lucado has a great post on strongholds here. This is a quote that sums it up:
What is that one weakness, bad habit, rotten attitude? Where does the devil have a stronghold on you? Ahh, there is the word that fits–stronghold–fortress, citadel, thick walls, tall gates. It’s as if the devil has fenced in one negative attribute, one bad habit, one weakness and constructed a rampart around it. “You ain’t touching this flaw,” he defies to heaven and he places himself squarely between God’s help and your: __[insert stronghold here]_______.
Literally, where does Satan have a strong hold on you? For me…it was lots of places.
This is uncomfortable to think about. It requires vulnerability, an admission that you are flawed and have been deceived.
Welcome to the club. Let me, and the whole of Scripture assure you, you are not alone.
Remain Teachable
The sermon at church on Sunday centered on renewing the mind. It so closely mirrored my outline for this post it was eerie. Anyway, our pastor had a great quote that I’ll share here about strongholds:
[Strongholds] keep us from being who God wants us to be and receiving what God wants to give us.
Strongholds are the key to thinking intentionally and taking your thoughts captive. Identify where Satan has a hold on your thoughts–where are they running amok? Then remain teachable to correct those thoughts and overcome.
Fear is a red flag that I am withholding something from God.
Fear is a red flag that I/you/we are withholding something from God. For me, the gripping fear of being a mom meant I was withholding my career, ideal of success, trust in His provision, trust in His ability to use my gifts from God.
If you cannot humble yourself to learn, incorrect, destructive thoughts will continue to control your mind processes. This in turn, will leave you enslaved to your fears and unruly ideas.
Accept That Not All Thoughts Are Wanted or Needed
It’s a myth that we cannot control our thoughts, that everything in our minds is put there by God.
Thoughts are influenced and implanted in our minds from many sources. Key being: worldly influence and lies/fear surrounding our strongholds. (This is why the Audit in Part II is so important to daily, intentional living.)
Once you accept that not all thoughts are needed, you are free to ruthlessly take your thoughts captive and throw the unwanted to the dumpster. Chase them down and eliminate them. You can restrain your thoughts. Your mind can renewed. (Romans 12:2)
Redirect
Okay, you identified where you are vulnerable (strongholds) and accepted that not all thoughts need to take up your valuable headspace. You’ve taken your thoughts captive and know you want to be rid of them.
Now what?
Now is the time for redirection. If the space that those thoughts occupied remains empty, it’s an invitation for them to reenter. (See Col 3:1-5)
Redirection is easier to say than do. Just think of something else. *insert eye roll here** I know firsthand that it’s not as simple as just wishing you could think of something else. I’ve been there.
Those unwanted thoughts that you just can’t shake are fruit from the tree of fear and anxiety. They’re a sign that a lie has taken root in your heart and mind. Identify the root of the lie, yank it out, and replace it with Truth.
This takes work. Auditing (see part II) and eliminating things you have come to like. But the freedom it brings is worth all the eliminating and auditing in the world.
How to Redirect Your Thoughts
When I was most in need of intentionality in my thinking I put a huge limit on what was speaking into my life. I shut down all the voices, except a very few that I knew were speaking truth. Here are helpful techniques to redirect/correct lots of very tricky, unwanted thoughts:
Commitment to be in the Word daily.
Praying daily for the Holy Spirit to open my eyes to strongholds and teach me to overcome them.
Praying daily that my eyes would be open to the lies I’d been deceived by and the Truth God wanted me to understand.
When I didn’t know how to pray, I turned back to this book.
Researching one topic at a time, journaling/listing everything God said about that topic. (For me I looked into every reference to God as a father, parents, parenting, and mothers.)
Pressing pause on all unscriptural voices speaking into me (social media, TV, movies, books, audiobooks, etc.)
Follow Jesus’ example. When He was tempted by lies and unwanted thoughts He turned to God’s Word to shut them down. (Matt 4:1-11). Humbly accept that what you may think is true may be flawed. Be in the Word, redirect your mind to Truth.
Ruthlessly remove anything that negatively affects your mind and ability to absorb God’s Word.
This last point is key. There is no quick fix for taking your thoughts captive, eliminating unwanted thinking and being totally intentional in your mind. It’s going to take time and practice (see Part II).
But you can do it. Really, you can.
Your thoughts should not be master over you. You can one Master and His yoke is kind. His will is not to keep you pinned under the weight of fear inflicted by thoughts He never intended to fill your mind.
Begin to weed out the lies and what you are withholding from God–these are at the root of unwanted thoughts. Address them one at a time. Then, when things have cleared up, continue the practice. You must be diligent not to let them reenter. New strongholds may arise, but you will be equipped with intentionality, to master what is in your mind and redirect it with Truth.
Join me on Instagram and Facebook for more on intentionally living for Christ, knowing His Word and seeing His hand in daily living. If you are liking this series, share it and let me know! I’d love to hear from you.
I’m launching a new short series all about Intentionality. Today I’m sharing how intentionality relieves anxiety. Other posts in the series will cover: Action Steps to Intentionality, Intentionality in your mind (taking your thoughts captive), and Cultivating an Atmosphere of Intentionality at Home.
I’ve talked before about my struggles with mental health. I feel God pulling on my heart to share more. Battling anxiety and depression is exhausting and oh-so-hard. But I’ve found complete healing and I think others can too. So I’m planning content that will share more of that journey with you. Starting with this series. *At the end of this post is a simple prayer for the anxious heart!*
When God Whispered Intentionality
Several years ago while in the midst of a mental health crisis and counseling I cried out to God. I asked Him to pass me a word that would sum up lots of what I’d been learning the new thought patterns I was trying to make “normal.” A word that would help me move forward.
Intentionality.
I heard it whispered into my heart. Plucked from all the words in my vocabulary. As always, God knows the heart and He gave me a good gift. It’s exactly what I needed to hear.
Focusing on cultivating intentionality, being intentional in my actions, thoughts and decisions was key for me in finding complete healing from depression and anxiety. I really do believe complete healing is possible. For you. For your loved ones.
Whether you are having a mental crisis, like I was–or just want to tame stress and indecision, I’m here for you. Over the next few weeks I’m going to share how I implemented intentionality in my life and how it gave my mind freedom to heal. How it continues to give me confidence to move forward, without wallowing in guilt over what I “could have” “should have” or “might have” done.
Case Study: Living in a Renovation
As we wrap up the remodel of our second floor, (in case you don’t know, when I’m not writing, creating or teaching, I work to oversee renovations on our 1927 fixer upper. See a before tour here. Follow on Instagram for all the behind the scenes fun in my stories) I realized this is the perfect time to talk about intentionality.
When a big project is happening, I get overwhelmed. In the past, taking on many things at once triggered anxiety and panic. In turn, this brought on a depression.
This is the thought waterfall that would progress.
I couldn’t get it all done at once. Panic. Feelings of anxiety, guilt and sadness set in based on my lack of performance. Thoughts of low self worth followed. Those thoughts manifested into belief, which manifested into depression.
It took time to identify and break those deeply rooted thought patters–and lots of work to create a new, “normal” way of thinking and processing. Cultivating intentionality helps me avoid falling into that trap and maintain my calm and confidence.
Over the last month I’ve needed to scrape mountains of peeling paint, repair plaster, paint, refinish floors, cut and install trim, clean up debris…etc. This was all happening while I stay-at-home-mommed full time, wrote studies and resources here on the blog, hosted friend gatherings at our home, carried out the other day-to-day tasks of being an “at home” parent, and said “yes” to ministry opportunities God laid in front of me.
My plate has been full. I bet yours has been too. In no way am I trying to be the Little Red Hen about this. I have help. I have an amazing husband. It’s just an illustration that things have been overwhelming and this could have easily taken on a panicky aspect.
How Cultivating Intentionality Relieves Anxiety and Offers Freedom and Confidence.
I can’t cover all the ways intentionality relieves anxiety in one post. That’s where the series comes in. Today I’m sharing how being intentional has relieved my anxiety and brought freedom into my busy, overworked mind. It can work for you too.
In the following weeks I’ll cover:
Action steps to intentionality
Intentionality in your mind (taking your thoughts captive)
Cultivating an atmosphere of intentionality at home
1. Confidence in Decision Making
Are you frazzled by decision-making? Do you have regrets or beat yourself up for making a “wrong” decision? Does anxiety over possibly making a wrong decision plague you? If so, let me introduce you to intentionality.
As I work on the house, many decisions need to be made. Often with a toddler crawling on me, or in spare minutes between renovations, meals and nap time. Not every choice I’ve made has been perfect. But they’ve all been intentional. I haven’t been anxious or sleepless. By practicing intentionality in my decisions I have gained confidence. Now, decisions (even tricky ones) are made more quickly, effectively and without regret.
2. Intentionality Puts You in Control
Ever feel like things are spinning out of control? Things are being thrown on your plate without consent? You are running as fast as you can but you can’t catch up. Have you felt helpless? If this is you, let me teach you about intentionality.
In the midst of a huge renovation things can easily seem to get out of control. The to-do list is long. Daily responsibilities don’t go away. And it always seems like new opportunities to serve are cropping up–adding more weight to an already heavy plate.
Purposefully bing intentional puts you in control. Not your to-do list. Not the needs of others. You’ll be in awe of what you can accomplish once this power struggle is gone.
3. Relief From Inadequacy
Thoughts of inadequacy used to plague me. Do they haunt you sometimes too? Let’s get intentional.
It’s easy to slide into the belief that you are inadequate when you’re under a mountain of stress (or a giant mess left over from a remodel). I get it. There is always more to be done. A mind practiced in intentionality will take ownership of how time and skill are stewarded. This mind grips God’s truth. You are not made adequate by your works, but by His completed work.
Cultivating intentionality shines truth on the lie of inadequacy. You are in control of the time and skill God has given you. With God’s help, you can take your thoughts (and to-do list) captive and live in freedom.
4. Being Comfortable With Limitations
Are you cool and collected toward the reality that you have limitations? I’m speaking from experience. Trying to do it all, all the time is a fool’s errand. Eventually, it’ll leave you frozen, making spastic progress–neither an ideal outcome.
As with any project, things look worse before they look better. There comes a boiling point where I need to recognize my limitations. and make intentional decisions. Will I cook dinner, or finish plastering a wall? Can I live with the mess in the living room and power through a second coat of floor finish? Will I finish painting trim after bedtime, or just take a shower and go to sleep?
To complete house projects, things in other areas need to slide a little. The photo above shows how my house really looked as I neared the end of the messy work upstairs. Toys strewn about. Chairs stacked up (in hopes that mopping would happen soon.) General disarray.
I needed to chose how to spend my time and own that decision with confidence. Sometimes I chose to plough through tasks upstairs. Sometimes I took a day off and tamed and tended the first floor. No regrets, only a heart of gratitude for the time God hands me and the rest He gifts us.
5. Replace Anxiety With Confidence
To sum it up, chunks of my anxiety have been replaced with confidence, simply by cultivating intentionality. Where nervousness used to reign, calm confidence now lives. Intentionality relieves anxiety. Very purposeful thinking has swept away things past anxiety and panic triggers.
Intentionality Relieves Anxiety
Maybe it’s silly. Or oversimplified. But it worked for me. And I believe it can help you too. Next week I’ll share specific action steps that helped me move toward intentional thought patterns that have become my new normal.
In the meantime, I’d love to have you join me on Facebook an Instagram. There you’ll join a community striving to live intentionally and see the world through a Christ-centered lens. I share daily encouragement and anecdotes of how I see God’s hand in everyday life. You can also sign up for emails below. That way you’ll never miss a post–and you’ll be sure to catch the entire Intentionality series.
A Simple Prayer For an Anxious Heart
Jesus, I know you don’t call me to live in fear, overwhelm or nervousness. But that’s easier said than done. Teach me to be intentional with my time, skills and decisions. To follow in your example of intentionality as you taught, healed and ministered during your earthly ministry. Open my mind to understand the Truth of Your freedom, and to dispel the lies of inadequacy, guilt and low self worth that stem from an anxious heart. Give me a teachable spirit to learn a new way of thinking that better aligns with your best for me. Amen.
This post is last of a series on Sabbath rest. Today we’ll cover some final thoughts and action steps for practicing the Sabbath, including a FREE downloadable guide. Here are the previous posts:
Part I–How to take a Sabbath rest. Personal Sabbath testimony, Sabbath symbolism and meaning.
Part II–Key Bible verses and takeaways for understanding the Sabbath
Part III–Commentaries and resources for understanding the Sabbath
Part IV–Practicing the Sabbath in your home–Free guide and worksheet
Practicing the Sabbath isn’t Legalistic
Today we are wrapping up the Reshaping Your Rest series with a FREE downloadable worksheet and a few final thoughts. The worksheet will walk you through assessing how you currently spend your “day of rest,” auditing your Sabbath activities and an action plan for creating a Sabbath that is both holy to the Lord and refreshing to you.
Best of all, our God cares more about our heart posture than our actions.
It’s easy to let our Sabbath rest become something legalistic. To lay out a list of things we are prohibited from doing. That’s missing the point. The Sabbath is a gift from God, Mark 2:27. (More verses on the Sabbath here.) It’s not meant to be drudgery. It’s not meant to enslave us. (Great commentaries and study resources here.)
The Sabbath is a day of rest and freedom. A day to look back and remember what God has done, enjoy the present and the place God has brought us to, and look forward to a future when things will be perfect and we will truly rest in paradise. The Sabbath doesn’t require us to be stagnant or mindless. (More on symbolism of the Sabbath in Part I and Part II.)
Your Sabbath May Look Different Than Mine.
The way you observe the Sabbath should be obtainable in your own house. In order to keep the day holy (literally: set apart), you need to be able to execute it and enjoy it. Having a Sabbath plan will do you little use if it’s an unobtainable ideal. That will eventually stir up guilt and exhaustion as you strive for rest. As you consider Sabbath rest for your own household keep it simple. (Here are some of my takeaways for inspiration.)
Your day of rest may look different than mine. And that’s okay.
Make a Plan for Practicing the Sabbath in Your Home
This is broken down in greater detail in the worksheet, but here are the steps our house took to Reshape Our Rest.
Prayerfully consider the Sabbath. Ask God to open our hearts to the truth of what He desires our rest to look like. Thank God for inviting us into the Sabbath. Repent of disobedience.
Choose a day that will be our Day of Rest.
Discuss what a “regular” work day looks like. Since the Sabbath should be “set apart” our rest day needs to look different than a work day.
Discuss what feels laborious or oppressive, like work to each of us.
Examine how we currently spend time on the Sabbath.
Filter activities through what Scripture says about the Sabbath.
Brainstorm what activities are acceptable and enjoyable for us on the Sabbath. Again, drawing from Scripture.
Create an action plan of what needs to be done before the Sabbath in order for us to enjoy and observe the Sabbath. This takes a little intentionality and forethought.
Our Sabbath Plan
If this still feels overwhelming I’ll give you an example. We decided to be intentional about the Sabbath over the past year. Previously our day of rest had no plan. Things felt unanchored. Sometimes stressful. Sometimes lonely, if we were busy with our own tasks and “unable” to enjoy our family together. Once in a while, resentful if I perceived that I wasn’t getting the rest I so desperately craved after a long week.
Communication has been key to reshaping our rest. Understanding what is burning us out, what brings refreshment to our family, and how we each effectively commune with God guided our plan.
Practicing the Sabbath looks a little different each week, but we prepare, communicate and examine our hearts before we step into our day of rest. Here are things we do or prioritize on our Sabbath:
Church
Pursue fellowship/edifying conservation/community outside the walls of the church.
Time doing something fun as a family.
For me, working on a house projects. It’s a time when I feel close to God and inspired by Him. **However, if projects become something I’m stressed about or burdened by, I do NOT work on them during the Sabbath. Instead I offer my concerns and stress over getting things done as a sacrifice to God. I choose to trust Him that the work will get done–and enjoy my day.
For Derek, working in the yard or taking care of a few things around the house is refreshing. He is joyful as he provides for our family in ways he cannot during the regular work week.
For Derek, intentional one-on-one time with Gideon is important during his Sabbath. For me, it’s important to step away from Gideon for a bit and have a little time to do something quietly alone.
Now It’s Your Turn
You can get the worksheet for intentionally reshaping your Sabbath over in the resource library. It’s totally FREE. It will walk you through the process we’ve used to set apart our Sabbath as a holy day to God.
For more intentional living, Bible geekery and daily motivation to walk in faith, be sure to join the community on Instagram and Facebook. I’d love to get to know you. Or, sign up for my emails (below), and you’ll get new posts straight to your inbox. Thanks for being here, friends.
Reshaping Your Rest:
Part I–How to take a Sabbath rest. Personal Sabbath testimony, Sabbath symbolism and meaning.
Part II–Key Bible verses and takeaways for understanding the Sabbath
Part III–Commentaries and resources for understanding the Sabbath
Part IV–Practicing the Sabbath in your home–Free guide and worksheet
What says “strive” more than rugged hiking images?
Today’s post contains Part III of a series on godly goal setting. In this post, I’m focusing on the word “strive.” We’ll continue looking at what Christ centered goals look like and how to pursue them. Together, we’ll continue to learn what Scripture has to say about goals and what we should be working toward. This series is not meant to set goals for you–only to help us all closer align our ambitions with Jesus.
If you missed the earlier posts you can find them at the links below.
As I explain in Part I–I began this study as a way to personally explore Christ centered goals for my own life. I made a list of “goal-y” words and researched how they are used in the Bible. It was a long process of cross referencing and using interlinear resources. The information I discovered was too sweet not to share. So here we are.
Strive
Today we’ll be looking at the word “strive.” When I made a list of goal-related words I wanted to look into, strive was second on my list (only after the word “goal.) When I think about goal setting, the word “work” doesn’t come to my mind as readily as “strive.”
Examining Scripture makes it clear: Striving has a richer meaning than simply “working.” It’s physical, mental, emotional. Striving is seeking with the intention to find. To strive is to pursue something with the cunning of a hunter intent on prey. Striving is athletic, relational and intercessional.
The Bible has a lot to say about what is worthy of such effort. To get to the things that are really worth pursuing, we need a striver’s mindset.
While doing my word studies I found five Greek words (I focused on the New Testament) the correlate to our English word “strive.” There may be more, but this is a good sampling. Some of these words translate directly to the English word, “strive.” Others use “strive” as a descriptor in their definition, or as a synonym. I’ll go through each and reiterate conclusions at the end. Sound good? Let’s get started.
To Earnestly Endeavor
Diōkō
Diōkō: to seek after eagerly, earnestly endeavor to acquire; to run swiftly in order to catch a person or thing, to run after
Make sure that nobody pays back wrong for wrong, but always strive (diōkō) to do what is good for each other and for everyone else. 1 Thessalonians 5:15
Diōkō is a word much like our English interpretation of “pursue.” Most often in Scripture, we see it translated in a negative way, to mean “persecute.” But in 1 Thess and elsewhere it’s used in the context of striving.
Overall, this word shows us how to pursue Christ centered goals. We must work eagerly and expectantly. As one pursuing something with the goal of capturing it. But how exactly do we strive? What should we strive for? Let’s look at other uses of the word. As you read these verses, keep the definition in mind. Replace the word in the sentence with “strive” or “eagerly pursue.”
Follow(diōkō) the way of love and eagerly desire gifts of the Spirit, especially prophecy. (1 Cor 14:1)
I press on(diōkō) toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. (Phil 3:14)
But you, man of God, flee from all this, and pursue(diōkō) righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness. (1 Tim 6:11)
Make every effort(diōkō) to live in peace with everyone and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord. (Heb 12:14)
They must turn from evil and do good; they must seek peace and pursue(diōkō) it. (1 Peter 3:11)
So I strive(askeō) always to keep my conscience clear before God and man.Acts 24:16
Askeō indicates trying. Something we are working toward. In some translations of this verse it says, “So I do my best…” Working toward a clear conscience before God and others is a godly, Christ centered goal.
To Seek After
Zēteō
Zēteō: to seek after, seek for, aim at, strive after
This word is most often translated to “seek.” However, when thinking about how we are to strive after Christ centered goals, it’s important to read the “striving” into the “seeking.” This is not aimless looking around, hoping to stumble onto the right path. Zēteō means we are putting our energy and efforts into our seeking.
Don’t strive (zēteō) for what you should eat and what you should drink, and don’t be anxious.Luke 12:29
Zēteō is used more than 100 times throughout the New Testament. Here are a few other verses that shed light on how we can apply zēteō to striving after Christ centered goals. Remember to read the verse with this enriched definition in mind.
But seek(zēteō) first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be provided for you. (Matt 6:33)
By myself I can do nothing; I judge only as I hear, and my judgment is just, for I seek(zēteō) not to please myself but him who sent me. (Jn 5:30)
Do not cause anyone to stumble, whether Jews, Greeks or the church of God—even as I try to please everyone in every way. For I am not seeking(zēteō) my own good but the good of many, so that they may be saved. (1 Cor 10:32-33)
It [love] does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking(zēteō), it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. (1 Cor 13:5)
So also you — since you are zealous for spiritual gifts,seek(zēteō) to excel in building up the church. (1 Cor 14:12)
Striving Together
Synagōnizomai
Synagōnizomai: to strive together with one, to help one in striving
Now I appeal to you, brothers and sisters, through our Lord Jesus Christ and through the love of the Spirit, to strive (synagōnizomai) together with me in fervent prayers to God on my behalf.Romans 15:30
Synagōnizomai specifically speaks of striving together. Godly goals do not all need to be accomplished independently. When looking at the things God calls us to strive toward, it’s important to also recognize He doesn’t call us to do it alone.
Strenuous Zeal
Agōnizomai
Agōnizomai: to endeavour with strenuous zeal, strive: to obtain something
For this reason we labor and strive(agōnizomai), because we have put our hope in the living God, who is the Savior of all people, especially of those who believe. 1 Timothy 4:10
Agōnizomai has athletic connotations. It’s often used to describe a fight, contending, or a contest. It’s interesting to apply this type of striving toward godly goals. Here are a couple other verses that use this word for “strive.” Keep in mind the physical, strenuous definition of the word used here.
We proclaim him, warning and teaching everyone with all wisdom, so that we may present everyone mature in Christ. I labor for this, striving(agōnizomai) with his strength that works powerfully in me. (Col 1:28-29)
Epaphras, who is one of you, a servant of Christ Jesus, sends you greetings. He is always wrestling(agōnizomai) for you in his prayers, so that you can stand mature and fully assured in everything God wills. (Col 4:12)
Striving for Christ Centered Goals: Application Examples
Here are things I jotted down in my study notes about striving toward godly goals–and the things worth striving. I encourage you to make your own list.
Doing what’s right is a godly goal. (1 Th 5:15)
I should strive to do good for others (1 Th 5:15)
Christ centered striving is intentional and requires effort. (Phil 3:14
Righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness are godly goals. (1 Tim 6:11)
I should pursue to cultivate those attributes in my life. (1 Tim 6:11)
Living in peace is a godly goal. I should strive for peace. (Hb 12:14, 1 Pe 3:11)
Godly goals pursue love (multiple verses)
Peace with others is worth striving for (multiple verses)
Repentance and confession is a godly goal. (Acts 24:16)
A clear conscience is worth striving toward. (Acts 24:16)
Material things are not a godly goal; this is not what I should be striving for. (Luke 12:29)
God’s kingdom is something to seek/strive toward. (Matt 6:33)
Do not strive to please myself, but God; pleasing God is a godly goal–worth striving toward. (John 5:30)
Godly goals seek the good of others and are not self-serving. (1 Cor 10:33)
Love is a godly goal; it is not selfish (1 Cor 13:5)
Building up the Church is a godly goal. (1 Cor 14:12)
We are called to strive together. (Rom 15:30)
I can strive in prayer, alongside others. (Rom 15:30)
My hope in Jesus gives me the strength to strive forward toward godly goals, even when it is laborious. (1 Tim 4:10, Col 1:29)
Helping one another to maturity in Christ is a godly goal. (Col 1:29)
I can strive toward godly goals in prayer. (Col 4:12)
Final Thoughts
One of my over arching observations about striving–in the context of godly goals is that it is often cooperative and relational. We are called to strive alongside others. We are called to strive for the good of others–not toward our own happiness or material desires. In some ways that is convicting. In other ways, it’s freeing to understand that the goals God wants me to set my eyes upon are simple. He’s not commanding me to build a company, remodel my house, work out, or even drink more water. He is calling us to strive toward love, peace, prayer, repentance.
Consider the goals you may have set for yourself with the onset of the New Year. Do they align with the godly goals we looked at last week, or what we’ve learned about striving this week?
**Always take caution when thinking about goals. God does want us striving toward maturity in faith and a heart aligned with His. However, our Salvation, justification before God and sanctification are not reliant on goal setting. Those things were all accomplished for us by Jesus on the cross. All we have to do to obtain those things is to rest in His grace.**
Let’s talk about being wise. A couple weeks ago I told you about a study in Proverbs I’ve been leading locally. I shared the intro to Inductive Bible Study at that time too. And lemme tell you. I’m loving every minute of it. Seriously, I’m finding it so fun! To me there’s nothing better than learning something new that will kick start my passion for Bible study all over again.
It’s been a while since I led a study and it is so fun, and such a privilege to go through Proverbs with a group of smart, interesting, women who aren’t put off my by geeky nature. Even though every week I’m always a little nervous people are leaving more confused than when they came! (But that’s something I just have to give over to God, right?)
Anyway, I’ll get to the point. I promise, there is a point. Week after week I keep coming back to a truth that stood out to me in the first lesson. I can’t shake it and I can’t hold it in any longer. So…Here’s the nugget that I’ve been holding onto for weeks now: (more…)
Today I’m talking about journaling. I’ve even got a FREE PRINTABLE for you to help you get in the habit of journaling. If you, like me want to journal…but seem to always fall off the train after a few weeks. You can go straight to the printable here. Or you can read on. Up to you. But know that the photos in this post are from about ten years ago. So, there’s that bonus.
Let me start with an anecdote about college. It feels like it was only a second ago, but really it’s been more like a decade. Yikes. My senior year I studies abroad. I think I started out doing it for the wrong reasons. Those reasons being mostly to run away from my real responsibilities. Things like, getting married, going to real classes, and facing a future that was becoming increasingly uncertain. I was engaged and I was panicking a little because I knew what I’d been studying was not what I wanted to spend my career years doing. Oh, and I was terrified of being married, because the whole idea of “submission” and trusting another person to lead me gave me cold chills every time I thought about it. But those are things we’ll discuss on another day.
So, long story short. Kind of. I ran away. I ran away to London like a Lost Boy to Never Land.
I didn’t know anyone and I didn’t care. Until I had a moment of panic and tears in the O’Hare airport bathroom after going through security. Because, honestly–what was I doing? Suddenly it all seemed crystal clear. This was one of the most idiotic things I’d ever done.
I’m affected by fear. I like routine. I like adventure, but I also like to control it. Nothing in my own rational understanding of myself said this was a good idea. But it was too late. The plane would board in a few hours and I’d return in a few months. That was that.
I dried my eyes and went to my gate and made small talk with the few other students who were flying out of Chicago instead of Indianapolis. All the while my mouth was dry and my palms were sweaty and I was sure everyone would think I was a wimpy, prudish loser. (more…)
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