The Shack-Book Review

I have just finished The Shack by William P. Young. The book was recommended to me by several friends. It was definitely a captivating story. I read it in a few days. I literally couldn't wait to see the ending. Which was not a disappointment. I cried and laughed, sometimes at the cost of looking disturbed. The story is of a man who experiences a tremendous sadness and his encouter with God. Ultimately it is a tale of one mans spiritual journey, but how he gets to that point is what keeps you in the book.

I can't spill the beans so if you want to know more you will have to read it yourself.

You can borrow a copy from the library or get one here!

Enjoy!

Blog Giveaways

I confess, I am a sucker for free stuff and giveaways. I am entering giveaways at

hope I win some good stuff! Thanks Audreys. Look for a link coming soon.

Your Actions Speak Louder Than Words

I have subscribed to Proverbs 31 ministry's daily email devotional. I highly recommend that you sign up for it if you are need of a daily devotion that is easily accessible and doesn't take a lot of time to prepare for. Not that we should limit our devotions to short spurts, but for me it is easier when it is in my inbox. I take time to read it and meditate on it all day. It is the perfect way for me get my daily devotion.

I think it was yesterday's devotion that focused on our "moral authority". Being on an island where most no one "knows" me is the perfect opportunity to do all of the things I wouldn't do at home. I thought about all that I could do when I was here without my family, I could go out at night, hang out with friends have some carefree days. What I found was that that is not "me". I haven't been out at night to hang out at all and I really would rather be at the coffee shop or in my room relaxing.

When I got away from all the influences in my life I could really see who I have become. I like who I am today and I want to focus on the little things that I want to improve which is making sure my actions match my words and my values. I don't go out and get trashed weekly or monthly, although there are countless opportunities, because it doesn't match my values. The devotion that I mentioned earlier alludes to a similar point.

Titus 2:11-12" For the grace of God has been revealed, bringing salvation to all people. And we are instructed to turn from godless living and sinful pleasures. We should live in this evil world with wisdom, righteousness, and devotion to God." (NLT)

Even though I fail often, I try to make my life a witness to others of what it means to be a christian. I try to hold my self to a Godly lifestyle. Sure I make mistakes and some people might say that I don't speak out against certain actions/language that would be considered sinful. I want people to know who I am so that I don't have to preach to them. If I preach to them I would have to eat my words because I am sure that I use actions/language on occasion that is probably sinful. I am trying to live the Titus 2 lifestyle. A life full of wisdom, which comes from the Lord; righteousness and devotion to God.

May I keep my actions and words in check with this holy scripture today, Lord. Guide my feet so that I can walk in your ways and be a beacon for you today.

In Jesus' sweet name,
Amen

Brand New Day

I spent the weekend studying for tests and on the beach. Not a terrible weekend by any account. I am glad that today is a brand new day, though. Over the weekend I had time to think about what I would do if my family cannot join me here. I have thought about what our life would look like with me here and them there. My daughter's birthday is coming up and my heart breaks to know that I will not be there to celebrate with her. My challenge is doing the "hard thing" for the right reasons.

But my devotion today gives me hope for a brand new day. Island life is great! The beauty and splendor are undeniable. The culuture that iminates from city is a direct reflection of God's creativity. Marvelous! When I see how the people have made accomodations for what they lack in money, I am humbled at the lifesyle that I have lived but often mocked. I want my family to experience the peacefulness that the island offers.

My eyes are opened and my ears are ready to see and hear the new thing that God is doing.

Isaiah 43:19.

"See, I am doing a new thing!

Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?

I am making a way in the desert

and streams in the wasteland. "