This quote has become my mantra over the pass couple of weeks. I’ve put it on the home and lock screen of my cell phone as a constant reminder of the commitment I’ve made to start this New Year off right!
What about you? How have you decided to start your New Year off with a fresh start?
However, I don’t consider the decisions I’ve made at the beginning of the New Year typical resolutions. I honestly don’t like the idea of jumping on the New Year resolution bandwagon. It’s never worked for me. But, I do like the idea of rededicating myself to the Lord and everything He has called me to be.
To pull myself out of the winter depressive funk I was in and stop waiting for life to happen. To begin living the intentional life God has called me to from the very beginning of my existence. To stop making excuses as to why I’m unable to act on the areas in my life I’ve felt God calling me to grow in and instead, act right away upon the tug of the Holy Spirit in my heart. Wherever it may lead. To heed the voice of God when He whispers in my heart to pray over my phone at the exact moment I read a prayer request or concern being shared by a friend on Facebook. To let go of the “stinkin’ thinkin”, which so easily distracts me from the guidance of God’s spirit in my life.
I’ve learned how to remind myself over and over and over again to take all my grand goals one-step at a time. To answer the question, “How do you eat an elephant?” Do you know the answer? “One bite at a time.” It’s a ridiculous quote, but it has honestly helped me to re-focus my heart and mind when I needed it the most. To be able to set fears aside and write what’s on my heart.
To be intentional. To stop wasting my life. To live by grace. And to no longer walk in condemnation or fear of failure.
What about you? How have you tried to live out the meaning of this inspirational quote in your writing journey?
I know I’ve found in my writing journey that I must often remind myself to be patient with myself. To be patient with the process. To not rush my growth as a writer or as a person. To not grow weary running my race. Whatever it may look like. To trust that He who began a good work in me will be faithful to complete it . . . even when I tend to get in the way.
I’ll leave you with one final quote from one of my favorite teachers and authors, Dr. Howard Hendricks. And one I needed reminded of this week.
“As long as you live, you learn;
and as long as you learn, you live.”
In conclusion, let’s challenge ourselves to learn how to make the most of the days we are given in order that we might truly live for Him.
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Rhonda Ritenour (“Ritty”) is a book-lover turned writer who began her writing adventure from a desire God placed on her heart to conquer her fear of writing. Avid Book Collector. Antique Shopaholic. Coffee Lover. Pinterest Addict. And is blessed to be living her dream working with her best friend and husband as a houseparent. Connect with Rhonda via Facebook ~ Pinterest ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads
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Thank you, Rhonda, for sharing with us today! I definitely struggle with over-thinking things way too often, especially when it comes to my writing. Loved what you had to say about re-dedicating ourselves to the Lord and listening to His Spirit’s guiding.
It’s just so hard to be patient sometimes, isn’t it? 🙂 “I often have to remind myself to be patient with the process. To not rush my growth as a writer or as a person. To not grow weary running my race. Whatever it may look like. To trust that He who began a good work in me will be faithful to complete it . . . even when I tend to get in the way.” Love this! Thanks for reminding me. 🙂 Praying the Lord blesses the road ahead of you, dear friend.
Savanna,
Thank you for your kind comments and for allowing me to be a guest writer on your blog. I’m truly blessed to know you and know that the Lord has great things in store for your writing ministry.
Blessings,
Rhonda
Oh, this was a word for me. I’ve allowed myself to grow a bit weary in the writing “waiting room”, and this was just the encouragement I needed. Thanks Rhonda!
Gwen!
Thank you for stopping by and I’m so VERY glad this encouraged you! What a blessing to my heart to hear that. 🙂 I’m praying for you friend!
In Christ,
Rhonda