So I've put together a list of books that I plan to read for 2012 - Join me!!

 - One Thousand Gifts: A Dare To Live Fully Right Where You Are - Ann Voskamp

 - Loving God with All Your Mind - Elizabeth George

- The Five Love Languages of Children - Gary Chapman

- Stepping Heavenward - Elizabeth Prentiss

- Hinds Feet on High Places - Hannah Hurnard


These for sure - to start out with!!

I’ve been struck lately with how “mundane” our lives as Christians have become.  I’m not sure where this Journey is going to lead me but I’m pressing on – my pursuit for what is real, more of a deep relationship with an Almighty Creator!!   Something has to change - something has to be different!!  I can't keep living life as a stagnant Christianity.  Amazing how if we grow up in a Christian home, faithfully attend Church, maybe even attend a Christian College - we think we are stellar Christians - the best of the best!  Honestly - those of us who think that - are often those of us who fail miserably!!  One thing that has struck me over and over again this passed year, as I've searched and dug deep for the true meaning of what my life is supposed to be - I've come to the conclusion that I am NOTHING without HIM!!!  I am a depraved sinner.  There has to be a way to get victory over the strongholds of this life!!  There is more to mere Christianity than what we are really experiencing.  

 

I’ve started my next book – A thousand Gifts by Ann Vonkamp.  I’m only on the second chapter – and if I could but grasp what she has learned, oh how I long for that deep intimate relationship with my God!!   Are we going to be different?  The simplicity of the word Joy – found no other way than putting Christ first in all things (Everything from spending time with Him to our daily routines), tending to the needs of Others (Our spouse, our children, others - through love, respect, service), and then taking care of self.  Are we going to change so that our children can go on and not have to make as many mistakes as we have?  To learn the true meaning of life at a younger age?  I want my children to know this deeper relationship with God that I seek!!  I want them to have it for themselves.  The thing is - they can't have it unless I have it first and I show them that I will put Him first!