To Serve well

Serving with Excellence for a Life of Excellence

Faith

Grounded and grateful: 3 reasons to reconnect with friends

What fun it was to spend a day with my college sorority sisters on Saturday. I have to say, after not spending any quality time with them over the past 25+ years, our time felt like we were still 19 hanging out talking about God knows what.

Today, my hope is that you will find value in connecting with some of your friends from the past. Here are a few reasons why it’s a good idea:

  1. They GROUND YOU! Sure, we have all moved on and experienced life, but these gals know me. They know me before the career, the family, the kids, the deaths, the divorce… Yes, life may change you, but your CORE is the same, and surrounding yourself with the folks who knew you “back then” is refreshing. I’m certain that if we would have had access, we would have permed our hair, put on some thick blue eyeliner, and sported some killer 1980s outfits!
  2. They INSPIRE YOU! This one I hadn’t really thought of and it was the most surprisingly cool part of the weekend. These ladies have gone through so much and despite it all, they have persevered and came out a quarter of a century or more later better and more beautiful. I felt like I could get through anything by hearing their stories.
  3. They PROPEL YOU! I know we were friends and we probably cheered each other on during college to some degree, but let’s be honest, at that point in our life we are all trying to get through, to achieve, to aspire, to move up the ladder of life. In other words, I’m not sure we propelled each other forward on purpose. What I know now, is that the encouragement these ladies gave me over the weekend is enough to keep me pedaling and pushing ahead.

We all need to be in “community,” and connected, and although I have an absolutely wonderful group of friends and colleagues, coming back to “home base” for me was notable. My encouragement is for you to reach out, schedule some meaningful time, tell the stories that “made you” and where you’ve been, what your hopes are…

It may be some of the best time you have spent in years… It was for me!

Simple thoughts Sunday: Reclaim your peace

(Photo creds: We Heart It)

Folks, I listened to this message this week, and it was a strong one. Joyce Meyer, who is one of the most amazing Christian preachers, seems to always speak to me quite loudly. I have her app on my phone, and on long walks I listen through her daily 25 minute podcasts. Joyce is 73, a motherly type figure for someone my age, but more like a wise sage in that she is so well-versed in the word of God and its application to real life that you hang on to every word.

So, this particular segment was about reducing stress. I can use that pretty much every day of the year. I would characterize myself as spirit-led, and the “type of gal” who is able to handle the daily stresses of life.

Even given that, stress seems to echo in the background noise coming from TV, social media, work life and the stress that enters the homes of each of us. It’s a topic that always leaves us wondering how to persevere better.

Joyce asked us to “make a list” of who steals our peace. Whoa! Immediately, I had three come to mind. None of you though, I promise. 😉

Next, she said to really ask God to take those people (that your human existence cannot seem to handle alone) on for you. It’s that simple. Right? Well, I talk to God about those things, but not sure I have “claimed” them as stealing my peace, so I’m going to give it a try.

She wrapped up her message with what we already know well, that in areas of your life you don’t have peace over, you lose your power. I need my power. As I age, I value every last minute/vial/whatever measurement of it.

As you get ready for another week and your goal toward having the “BEST YEAR YET,” I hope you see some value in this exercise. I’ll be praying for all of you, in fact, I am right now as I write this.

“Peacemakers who SOW IN PEACE REAP a HARVEST of righteousness.”  James 3:18

“Let the Peace of Christ rule in your hearts…”  Col 3:15

“Cast all your anxiety on him…”  1 Peter 5:7

Simple thoughts Sunday: We can’t do it alone

(Photo Creds: We Heart It)

Many of you might know that Exodus is at the front of the Bible. I truly love the lessons I have learned by focusing on Old Testament wisdom over the last several years. It is clear that God knew right up front that we needed some solid advice on how to navigate life. This particular bit of advice is a key message that I can use over and over again. I hope you hear the message speaking directly to you, because I know for sure that many – if not most of us – don’t do this well.

I don’t know what “it” is for you, but I do know that regardless of whether it’s the simple act of getting through the day – sailing a proverbial boat – or a large project like getting out of debt or starting a new business… we are not supposed to get through it alone. We are meant to be a community, bringing others alongside us to accomplish our purpose.

I hope that this week you will put down the phone and think through what areas of your life you might need to delegate with the help of your community at school, work and home to be BETTER than you could be on your own.

Side note: As a mom, I hope all of you parents don’t hesitate to field some work to the kids… They need it… (note the “tough love” language in the verse). Tuesday we talk about developing “grit” in our homes and this is a good step.

Simple thoughts Sunday – Are your relationships bringing you closer?

(Photo Creds: We Heart It)

Someone posed this question to me a few months ago. It’s intended to be focused on your intimate relationships, but it’s still pretty broad.

I first thought about how useful this question would be for my 20-year-old boys, and then quickly realized it is a completely legitimate question for me. I’m not married, and really only in the past year(ish) considered dating more seriously. I am grateful this question was brought to my attention, because in its simplicity it speaks volumes.

Shouldn’t I be filtering any potential “candidate” that may become a key part of my life through this life impacting question? After all, if he’s not moving me closer to God (in my case… I realize many others have different religions or viewpoints), then why should I waste my time? I shouldn’t. You shouldn’t.

Whatever is important to you, if your partner is not a part of helping you go in that direction then they probably aren’t a long-term part of your plan. (Clearly, if you are already in a relationship it may bring forth a different set of questions… like how can I bring my partner closer to God? How can I have a conversation that I need him to pray over me when I’m facing a challenge?)

The same would be true for friendships that you invest a lot of time with. Back to the school days when your parents tell you to “hang with the right crowd.” I think it’s worth it to take an inventory of those friends in your inner circle. Are they bringing positive energy? Are they investing in you and your happiness? It’s a good process.

Finally, how are you bringing your friends closer to God? Are you really praying for them, seeking their hearts and what they may be confronting right now? How can you step up in this area?

I’ve been thinking about it a lot and I hope it ignites a little fire in you that has you move in that direction.

Have an awesome week.

Game day jitters = “I can handle it”

(Photo Creds: We Heart It)

Game day jitters. We all have them, whether we are in the big game on the field, or the game of life. A test, a meeting with the boss, meeting someone new… knocking one off of the bucket list… AKA sky diving, or traveling globally for the first time. Game day jitters happen to us all. This year, one of the leaders I listen to, Steven Furtick, talks about his mantra, “I can handle this.” You can find it on his podcast via iTunes, or YouTube.

I normally don’t have Christian references in my weekly posts, but this one is really good and shouldn’t be missed. If you don’t want to use the Christian references, replace it with something you are comfortable with – I promise it’s worth your time to copy and paste this and put it front and center in your life. (It is better on video, or just to listen to it via iTunes… but the words are solid.) Here it goes:

“Today is a new day.

It will bring brand new blessings and brand new battles.

But within every uncertainty there is a hidden possibility.

So I don’t dread any challenge that lies ahead

Because I remember all the victories behind.

And my confidence is not in my circumstance.

The spirit of God is my supply.

I’m steady under pressure and I’m ready for whatever… ’cause whatever comes my way today, the outcome is “I overcome.”

Christ is in me, I am enough.

I can handle it.

I can’t afford to stay afraid or let my faith hesitate.

My purpose is at stake and he who called me is faithful.

His strength in me is greater than any pain I feel or enemy I face.

The promise of God is mine for the taking.

Every plan He has made is guaranteed to come to pass.

It will happen.

If I don’t back down, if I won’t let go, it will happen.

If I don’t stop short, if I won’t sell out, it will happen by faith.

But faith doesn’t take the fear away, it teaches me to fight it.

So bring the battle, I’m ready now.

I got something for Goliath.

I can handle it.

My power flows from presence so I won’t stay stuck in what was, or worry about what will be.

My regrets have been redeemed

And my tests have becomes my lessons

My focus is is fixed and my hear expectant

I’m set, I’m not nervous about what’s next.

‘Cause my eyes are on the throne

I trust the one who’s in complete control

The one who already knows how He’s gonna work it according to his purpose.

Even the worst situations are sure to turn in my favor, If I keep moving forward, keep moving toward Him.

God is with me in this moment, and whatever happens…

I can handle it.”

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Isn’t that awesome? Game day jitters impact us. Make us lose sleep, lose our peace and can distract us from our best. If we maintain our focus, prepare at the highest level, realize that we have support through the fan club of our family and friends… We can achieve a great game… not just today’s game, but every game we step in to.

Simple Thoughts Sunday: Why faith must supersede logic

(Photo Creds: We Heart It)

Why do bad things happen to good people?

Why did I get a bad grade on my paper when I thought I aced it?

Why, just when you think you are about to turn the corner financially, the dryer needs repair?

Why does the best team not always win?

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When it comes to life’s most challenging questions we simply cannot rely on logic. The human brain is wired to want to understand. “It just doesn’t make sense,” we hear a lot. As a Christian, it is often, “Why would God allow that to happen…?” We live in a world that although filled with so much good and so many wonderful people, is also a giant stage for our human imperfection.

Today, this idea that we must truly have FAITH and not rely on logic has come to me over and over again. Truthfully, I’m not very good at it. I wish I could say I was… I certainly try and have the right intent. I do believe that there is a divine plan for each of us, and that the universe is “unfolding as it should.” (Ref: Desiderata poem, 1927, Max Ehrmann) I not only believe it, but I’m counting on it. (Because we have some crazy things that happen in our world…)

Today, I am choosing to once again, give up my “logical” mind for all out FAITH. As you set out to conquer the year, I hope that you will join me. Doing this requires a commitment… a daily commitment, and maybe even an hourly effort. Things don’t make sense. There is bad and even ugly and unfair  and unjust, unreasonable and undeserved… There is also the life God promised us that assures us that the ultimate prize is a victorious life. A life of FAITH, allows us to give all of those things to God and allows him to work them together for our collective good.

Something to think about today… Have an amazing week!

Simple Thoughts Sunday – God, teach me to own the state of my soul!

(Photo Creds: Steven Furtick, Instagram)

WOW! I read this during the week and knew I had to share it here. Here’s the full post:

“The fact that it happened TO me doesn’t make it a part OF me. Just because it came to pass doesn’t mean it gets to stay. Just because it knocks doesn’t mean I answer. And just because it afflicted me doesn’t mean it crippled me. God, teach me to OWN the STATE of my SOUL.”

Seriously, who else thinks that is BRILLIANT? SOOOO good!

As you kick off this third week of January, my prayer will be that we reflect on this statement, and learn from it. God knows we get hit from all directions, financial, personal, etc. It doesn’t even have to be bad necessarily, just real life, like needing new tires or a comment that was made that may be bad… but it may have been nothing at all, just our mind on overdrive. If we can truly give it to God, he will soothe our souls. I believe that.

Tomorrow is the celebration of Martin Luther King, Jr. He is one of my personal heroes. His bravery and courage to tackle the big issues is truly incredible. I’ll write a bit about him and his work on Tuesday, but since I focus on faith issues on Sundays, I wanted to ask that you will pray with me that God raises up the Martin Luther King Jrs. around us today. We need more voices that are positive and inspire needed change in our country.

Make it an awesome week.

Simple Thoughts Sunday – The fight is won

(Photo Creds: Steven Furtick-Instagram)

Love this. I don’t know who else is having some “battles” starting 2017, but I already feel the pressure. I know that many of my friends are struggling too… broken marriages and other relationships crushing their spirits, etc.  The cold, flu or whatever this nasty bug is that has entered the homes of most people I know is still running rampant. Pressures of work and really just the struggle to achieve the ultimate desire to MAKE A DIFFERENCE in the midst of it all creates an uncomfortable “I’m not enough to do this on my own” stir. I believe this is exactly the point.  God wants us to rely on him for all things.

This photo came across this week and I thought I need to print that off and put it squarely in front of whatever path I’m on – I needed this message and I’m hoping that this falls on some other “ears” that may need it as well.

Let us all remember that WHATEVER comes our way, that because of our faith, we have already OVERCOME. Even IF at first glance it appears otherwise (beaten and bruised and otherwise ready to run down the street crying “uncle”). We have someone else fighting for us and that is such a relief.

Books you might want to read!

(Photo Cred: We Heart It)

If you have been reading this blog for a bit, you might know that I post a blog three times a year with my “top books.” I am an avid reader and follow the thinking that once we stop learning, we stop growing.

I actually slowed a bit during the last stretch of 2016, but still had some excellent reads worth sharing. I added my top books for 2016 below as well! Let me know if you have read any of these, or if you pick one up for later!

1. BRAVING IT, by JAMES CAMPBELL
Why I loved it: This is about a father and daughter who have an amazing journey through Alaska. It is gripping and makes you want to seek adventure. It’s a true story, but as close to fiction as I get. Those who normally read fiction will like this one!

2. HOW TO LIVE A GOOD LIFE, by JONATHAN FIELDS
Why I loved it: Jonathan is an all around inspiring guy who runs an organization called the “Good Life project.” It’s good stuff y’all! He focuses on three key areas: connection, contribution and vitality buckets. Well written and easy to read.

3. THE MAGNOLIA STORY, by CHIP & JOANNA GAINES
Why I loved it: Any other HGTV Fixer Upper fans out there? I don’t watch much TV, but I go out of my way to catch this one! Chip and Joanna and just plain fun, and they do some good work. Their book shares how they got to their recent success and lets you inside their lives just enough to make them more endearing.

4. THE BROKEN WAY, by ANN VOSKAMP
Why I loved it: Ann is another who I have heard of often, but hadn’t read any of her books. After I read this, I quickly ordered all of her books. Ann’s words are simply poetic and pack a powerful punch. This book really focuses on the “not so good in life,” and how to embrace those moments “well,” (quote:  “Feelings are meant to be fully felt and fully surrendered.”). SO GOOD.

5. THE HIDING PLACE, by CORRIE TEN BOOM
Why I loved it: THIS IS A CLASSIC in the truest sense. Something told me I surely read this before, but if I did it was with totally fresh eyes. Our modern world sometimes makes us feel like things are hard when honestly they are not. This book captures not only important history, but keeps the sacrifices that people have made for our benefit top-of-mind, and inspires us to be willing to sacrifice when called to do so – INCREDIBLE.

TOP 5 BOOKS 2016

1. ORIGINALS, by ADAM GRANT
Why I loved it: Everything! This is my favorite. It’s both a business read and one that will definitely make you a better person in every segment of your life. The insights and breaking down of myths on how we think and act are very cool.

2. IF YOU CAN KEEP IT, by ERIC METAXAS
Why I loved It: The subtitle of “The Forgotten promise of American Liberty” jumped out and it was also highly recommended. Pretty much everything this author writes has been golden. He dives deep into America as a “nation of nations” and challenges us to reconnect with the ideas of liberty and freedom for all and embrace our role in living out what our nation’s founders entrusted us with – it’s EXCELLENT.

3. CHASE THE LION, by MARK BATTERSON
Why I loved it: Batterson is my favorite Christian author. He seems to magically weave biblical truth and offer example after example of historical evidence to support his call here for us all to CHASE down our fears and go after our dreams. This is a book about “stretching.” Here’s a great quote to wet your appetite: “Napoleon Bonaparte made a distinction between two kinds of courage – regular courage and two-o’clock-in-the-morning courage, ‘The rarest attribute among Generals is two o’ clock -in-the-morning courage.”

4. PRESENT OVER PERFECT, by SHAUNA NIEQUIST
Why I loved it: I had never read Shauna Niequist before, even though she has several books out there. I guess nothing seemed to resonate before. At any rate, this particular book addresses the seasons of our lives and the need to step into the craziness fully. A bit of a flavor: “If someone gave you a completely blank calendar and a bank account as full as you wanted, what would you do? The first thing that leapt into my mind: stop, I would stop. I would rest. I would do nothing at all. I would sleep.” She addresses a certain season as feeling like “off reading.” I for one have been in that season more than one time! If you have as well, you’ll love this one!

5. THROUGH THE EYES OF A LION, by LEVI LUSKO
Why I loved it: Levi and his family lost a little girl unexpectedly. With great sadness, Levi is able to shine a light on God’s grace and Share the painful details but also inspire hope.

Why I do the Daniel Fast every January….

(Photo Creds: We Heart It. One of my all time favorite activities was going dogsledding in Colorado. It is not only beautiful but watching the dogs do what they love is incredible. I want to have the energy to pull through and achieve my 2017 purpose, which is why this photo appealed to me so much! If you make it out to Colorado or anywhere where there is snow this winter, please try to find somewhere to dog sled…it’s an incredible adventure.)

I started out on Sunday with the “paths” that God may take us down this year… knowing fully that “whatever” they may be that we are covered. He is with us and surrounding us at all times with just who and what we need to not just survive, but to serve well.

About 5 years ago, I became friends with a group of wonderful people that introduced me to the Daniel Fast. Now, before you freak out and think I am not eating at all, please be assured, I AM and if you join me, you will actually enjoy it! (That was for you mom.)

The Daniel Fast is focused on the Old Testament scripture where Daniel refuses to eat the “rich food and wine” and despite that, he and his friends end up healthier and stronger than their fellow soldiers. The idea is that we should turn our focus to eating primarily plant based foods (no sugar, white flours, dairy nor meat) for 21 days and, at the same time, our attention should be on hearing what God may have in store for us. I do this every January usually from the 1-21st. There are many that do this starting the 8th, so it’s really just like anything else, a personal decision.

So why did this intrigue me and why might you want to consider it? Since I’ve trialed it for you and many ask me over the year, I thought it may be a worthwhile blog topic. Here’s the main reason:

The fast allows me to REFOCUS and, at the same time, RESET my physical health.

  • REFOCUS: By turning off social media for the most part and my attention on books, podcasts and other opportunities to learn and grow personally, I am able to remove the distractions that limit me from being my personal best.
  • RESET: You may be one of those people that eat healthy 24/7, 365 days a year, but I’m not. I try to go for the 85/15 rule, but it’s probably closer to 70/30 and that may be generous. This fast removes anything bad and allows my body to have time to recover and reset. Over the pasts 5 years I have given up any soda and sweetened tea or coffee and have a much higher knowledge and palette when it comes to sugar in general. It is truly amazing how much sugar is in everything. This RESET is AWESOME and the best thing I do all year for my mental and physical health. (As a side note, there have been a few years that I have done this again midway through the year… it’s just that good.)

For those of you who want more information, by all means please message me. There are books, blogs, websites, pinterest, etc. that offer us recipes and other inspiration focused on the Daniel Fast. A simple Google search goes a long way!

I’d love to hear any stories you all may want to share, and also if you do something like the Daniel Fast, please let us all know!