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Day 25
Day 25 | Describe How You Want Life To Be Different
ACTIVITY
Continue:
- P.A.C.T.—Pray | Ask | Confess | Thank
- P.A.S.S.—Pray Prior | Author's Intent | Stop when Convicted | Share
Your Call To Act (C.T.A.) today is:
- Describe how life would be different if you accomplished your determined goal
PROVERBS 18
18 An unfriendly person pursues selfish ends
and against all sound judgment starts quarrels.
2 Fools find no pleasure in understanding
but delight in airing their own opinions.
3 When wickedness comes, so does contempt,
and with shame comes reproach.
4 The words of the mouth are deep waters,
but the fountain of wisdom is a rushing stream.
5 It is not good to be partial to the wicked
and so deprive the innocent of justice.
6 The lips of fools bring them strife,
and their mouths invite a beating.
7 The mouths of fools are their undoing,
and their lips are a snare to their very lives.
8 The words of a gossip are like choice morsels;
they go down to the inmost parts.
9 One who is slack in his work
is brother to one who destroys.
10 The name of the Lord is a fortified tower;
the righteous run to it and are safe.
11 The wealth of the rich is their fortified city;
they imagine it a wall too high to scale.
12 Before a downfall the heart is haughty,
but humility comes before honor.
13 To answer before listening—
that is folly and shame.
14 The human spirit can endure in sickness,
but a crushed spirit who can bear?
15 The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge,
for the ears of the wise seek it out.
16 A gift opens the way
and ushers the giver into the presence of the great.
17 In a lawsuit the first to speak seems right,
until someone comes forward and cross-examines.
18 Casting the lot settles disputes
and keeps strong opponents apart.
19 A brother wronged is more unyielding than a fortified city;
disputes are like the barred gates of a citadel.
20 From the fruit of their mouth a person’s stomach is filled;
with the harvest of their lips they are satisfied.
21 The tongue has the power of life and death,
and those who love it will eat its fruit.
22 He who finds a wife finds what is good
and receives favor from the Lord.
23 The poor plead for mercy,
but the rich answer harshly.
24 One who has unreliable friends soon comes to ruin,
but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.
TRANSCRIPT
Goal: Describe how life would be different if you accomplished your goal.
Today we want to think about that one area that we determined yesterday that we wanted to improve. Today I want you to imagine how your life would be different if you were successful in this one area. In fact, I would like to have you write down how you believe your life would be different. Consider how it would affect relationships. Imagine how it would change your beliefs, attitudes, and actions. Imagine how it would shape that new you. Please think about this in detail. What I want you to do is have a clear vision for a future you.
DEVO
A man of many companions may come to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.—Proverbs 18:24.
We have all had a moment where we've been disappointed in a friend. Maybe they've failed to deliver on a promise, embellished an untruth, spoken a word of gossip, said something hurtful, or merely left you out. Frequently we jump to several conclusions, including "What's wrong with me?" This thought is followed by feelings of frustration, anger, and resentment, and before you know it, our thoughts cycle entirely around ourselves. When you find yourself doing this, consider less what others need to do to be better friends. Instead, consider what you need to do to be a good friend—or maybe make better friends. Because there is "a friend, who sticks closer than a brother."
DO THIS: Be a friend by telling a friend thank you for their friendship today.
PRAYER: God, bring friends into my life that make me better. And help me to be the best of friends.
Share That You Completed Today's Challenge
13 To answer before listening—
that is folly and shame.
This is definitely a flaw in my character. Especially with one person in my life. I am too ready to answer before listening and also thinking and contemplating before I speak. I need to follow James 1:19-20!!!!Be quick to listen, slow to speak, slow to anger.. for man’s anger does not produce the righteousness of God.
I pray for wisdom in this area!! Reminding me that a RESPONSE is NOT either REQUIRED or NECESSARY most times.
Be a better dad and husband
Repair and improve relationship with family
Better husband, father and friend through God’s word not my own efforts.
Having a much deeper relationship with God, and being a better husband, father and grandfather.
Aware of God’s direction in my life for a recent life challenge. Thankful, prayer answered. Praise to God.
Before answering today’s specific question –
V1: Whoever isolates himself seeks his own desire; he breaks out against all sound judgment
Many of us are isolated due to COVID and work from home rituals. We need to try harder to connect with other Christians to prevent losing our connections.
My vision in reducing alcohol content is for that to lead to more fitness (restart running and exercise) which will lead to improved mental attitude.
Doing a better job of just thanking those close friends in my life is my goal today.
I imagine been more engaged with my wife and daughter will lead to more openness and sharing and ultimately a better relationship.
My goal is to be a better husband that shares my thoughts more often. When I can do that, I think our stress levels will decrease. We can move through life together as a more cohesive team. Our oneness improves. That means issues are dealt with sooner, laughter is more frequent, parenting style solidifies, and the household is more peaceful.
Verse 13 is powerful. I’ve seen others AND myself formulate answers/ defensive responses while the other person is done speaking. Instead of listening!
V. 17 “In a lawsuit the first to speak seems right,
until someone comes forward and cross-examines.”
Seek to hear both sides of a story before deciding what’s true
Every man fights with good and evil.
God. Help me to continually envision how I can be fruitful for you.
I like verse 16 which says that a gift ushers the giver into the presence of the great. I am learning that giving towards others brings us closer to God’s presence. He likes when we give towards others.
I am currently reading a book called Givers and Takers it talks a lot about how Givers are wired differently and they do much better than Takers and Matchers. I think we are all situational, but it appears I have a lot of Giver attributes and techniques. I often think that God lays out things that are simple and profound that are transformative. Like the concept of Giving.
Good comment. I will look for the book.
When I am done I can give it to you. It is pretty good.
I think if I was able to increase my faith that I would be able to impact people more effectively (maybe this is a trap). Is it being more effective or actually reaching people. Is having a better relationship with God required to reaching others. According to Jonah – maybe not, but I think I would prefer being John the Baptist or a Billy Graham. Someone whose holiness impacts the world. I have always felt that I have a relationship with God, I would like to see it progress and that is really my hope for my area of accountability.
(2/15/21) Proverbs 17:15 The Passion Translation
“There is nothing God hates more than condemning the one who is innocent and acquitting the one who is guilty.”
Last night we watched Brian Stevenson’s documentary on HBO. Reminded me of Greg Kelley and the injustice of his imprisonment and the “acquittal” of Johnathan McCarty. (I still believe there is hope, that Johnathan will commit his life to the Lord.)
As I reflect on my desire to pursue a deeper spiritual connection with my wife, I envision that pursuit having a healing and restorative effect on her… We’ve been dealing with some very challenging things over these past few years, and I know she doesn’t always feel like we’re truly allies. I want to speak life into her; I want to see her be able to relax and experience genuine joy without “mom guilt” or even “wife guilt…” I want her to know she can rely on me and to know she doesn’t have to worry about where my focus is (or isn’t). I know that this will (potentially) build a stronger and deeper connection between us. (But I also know that I have to commit to a long-term process…)
Jason, this is a tremendously caring and thoughtful post. Thanks for loving and leading your wife this way!
Guilt free and deeper in Christ
God may Rene know guilt no more in his life! Amen.
Be careful not to gossip, the name of the Lord is fortified, our heart seeks knowledge and wisdom, what we say has an impact on those around us and when we say good things, those who hear will love what is being said. This is a summary of verses 8, 10, 15, 20 and 21 that impacted me today. I need to control my tongue and show love to all those around me. Good reminders for me/us with what is going on today, we need to pray and ask God for understanding, comfort, healing and peace.
Praying for this now! 🙏🏼
Faith——-
To get more into the word DAILY
A friend is ond you can go to when you done wrong, but love you anyway. He will correct you in a lovely way , and then say, l love you as a brother in Christ Jesus.
My goal has been to have a better relationship with my family and those closest to me. My prior relationships were mostly transactional. Meaning we would only talk if someone needed something from the other person. I’ve been making a concerted effort over the last year or so. This has allowed me to create something more relational. Now I talk to them both on a regular basis and text my sister frequently. In fact today, my dad and I went to my aunts to bring her food and chat. We went house shopping yesterday. I’m glad I was able to mend things because under some various circumstances, he is now living with me. It’s been a month and so far so good. I foresee a loving relationship in my family instead of a transactional one.
With my communication improving, I will be able to clearly state what needs to be done and asked of me with boldness and better understanding for all parties involved. A peace of knowing what is expected would be the standard.
21 The tongue has the power of life and death,
and those who love it will eat its fruit.
So true…
I need to be a Proverbs guy.
I really like this because it reminds that I need to be thankful for the brothers in Christ and the strong friends I have in my life. I’m thankful for every one of them
10 The name of the Lord is a fortified tower; the righteous run to it and are safe.
I have to remember that I need to give my challenges to the Lord on a regular basis. Too often I want to handle everything on my own, and often enough it does not turn out well. Help me, Jesus, to rely on you for all things.
Done
Verse22 its about my wife I believe if she didn’t come into my life when she did I probably wouldn’t be here today.That was the lords work .I believe this in my heart and soul. Amen
Family. I don’t find we’re compatible, especially being the lone Christian in a pool if agnostics/atheists. But, Jesus thrived as He ate with outcasts and sinners without judging them, that’s where I want to be with my family. I’d be a lot less stress and anxious around them but of course the glory would go to God
If I make my exercise commitment I would hope to be healthier, have more energy, and have more time for my personal relationships. (God and my wife). I pray that it will become such an important part of my life that it will continue once I go back to teaching next school year.
Faith is what I need . I do have faith but more time then not I am weak. Stronger faith will improve
family life. Be able to step out of the box and make me bolder and a better Christian and leader of my home. In turn Everything else in my life will also follow suit, faith, family bonds, finances, friends etc.
Being able to be proud to share my testimony and share Gods word with others.
13 To answer before listening—
that is folly and shame.
This is a hard lesson to learn and one I hope my kids learn sooner rather than later. I don’t remember if I publicly picked and declared a goal this time around on the 35 day challenge or not, but I DO know that I still need to start a regular exercise regimen. Fight Club Ministry is going to be my starting place because it’s ALL about accountability with other brothers in Christ and growing more mature in spiritual, physical, mental, and relational health.
It turns out I DID pick an area, it was building relationships with other Godly men and I aslo intend to be pursuing that goal through Fight Club Ministry as well as fitness.
The tongue has very real, supernatural power. Both scripture and science overwhelmingly supports this. My choices impact me, and those in hearing of my speech. It is my responsibility to fill my heart with Truth & Life so that what proceeds out of my mouth reflects Jesus.
Fitness: If I accomplished this goal, I wouldn’t notice such a large change in my weight and energy level between summer and winter months.
“One who has unreliable friends soon comes to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.”
Proverbs 18:24
my body is a temple for the Spirit, and I want to honor God with it. I don’t have energy problems, and don’t drink a lot of caffeine or anything, but I’m sure that if I do begin to be more active, I will gain even more energy than I currently have.
As I get healthy and loose some weight more time and energy to serve the Lord won’t be as tired or sore
My family would have a firm foundation in Christ and nothing in this life would shake them, or the trust that they have in God. My kids would be better prepared to face the challenges that will surely come in this changing messed up world.
My in-laws set up Rachel and her siblings for college. They had zero college debt. As a matter of fact, there was $ left over for other items (car, down payment on house). This has been such a blessing in our family. Because of this blessing, we have been able to be a blessing for others.
So, my vision to help my kids with college funds is that so they can be blessed to be a blessing for others.
Playing catch up… I like his view on accountability. Excited to see where it goes. Today’s proverbs was deep and I’m really enjoying more and more proverbs
Achieving my goal would mean more time with my family and serving the Lord.
I believe when i follow my God more closely, i will be a brighter light in this world and be kinder to others.
Strength and perseverance isnwhstbo long for
Verses 2 & 13
I struggle mightily at times to truly listen. So often I am formulating in my head what I am going to say while the other person is still talking. For the longest time, I didn’t realize how poorly that reflected on me to others. They felt I was just waiting on them to finish so I could share my thoughts or opinions. It was such a lack of discipline and respect. I have to be very focused and diligent to remember this in my conversations. It is difficult for me but well worth the effort.
As far as my fitness goal, it is to reduce my weight to a point where my belly doesn’t overhang my belt. Along with this, I am targeting to improve both my stamina and skill to the point where I can more easily win one-on-one matchups in the weekly soccer games I participate in at work.
If I were truly accountable I would realize I can change no one but myself and would be more focus on Jesus than on the other person and what that person needs to do and what I meed, must do, and I would be more available to do the will of God, Jesus and realize I can change no one but myself.
so much of Proverbs is about our words. Guard your tongue brothers!
I’m blessed to have great friends. “One who has unreliable friends soon comes to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother”. Guys that share your same beliefs, same integrity, sense of responsibility, spiritual leaders of their family. I’m blessed.
by Trusting God, my life will change because I will cease the artificial “control” that I think I have to his will and will for my life. He is in control period and wants the best for me as he is a Loving Father.
By working on family and the balance between parenting and marriage I see a full cup of appreciation. Often times I feel like I’m just trying to knock out the task of each day. Working on the proper balance enriches my heart and acknowledges the rich blessings God has provided. I want to be a good steward of the gifts God has given in my life.
My life would certainly be more pleasurable if I lost weight and became healthier. I have friends and family that worry about me. I want to be healthy, but I also want to ease their minds. I would be able to enjoy my time with them!
When I follow through with my fitness plan mentioned yesterday I know that I would have more energy and time to dedicate to the good stuff in life.
Choosing fitness also I didn’t realize it either Eric. But I need to ho about looking for ways to get my body right, my soul right, and my mind right. Between this and a healthy eating program I’m working on, my mornings have changed fir the better this far.
How would life be different if I was held accountable to the words I say as opinions? It would cause me to be more filled with truth and less of a fool. It seems also that the people around me would get a better version of me.
21 The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit.
Our mouths, tongue, lips, and words can bring life or bring death. Words must be used intentionally and not frivolously thrown out there. We should be guided by wisdom and interacting with the intent of edifying and building one another up.
We must evaluate what we hear as well and when we discern someone, or something, foolish is speaking into our life be willing to turn that noise off and replace it with God’s truth. Being built up is not as easy as being torn down. This is why we must be wise in our relationships.
I envision feeling better with more energy and not be so quickly tired out. Build more strength to be more physically able for everyday challenges.
I see the benefits of brotherhood in this chapter, at the beginning and the end. When we go into isolation, we only harm ourselves (v. 1). The brother is vital in our lives (v. 24).
These verses jumped out to me:
13 To answer before listening— that is folly and shame.
15 The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge, for the ears of the wise seek it out.
My focus of accountability is “Persist in My Faith”.
What do I think this will look like?
I believe my faith and Christian wisdom will grow where I can be able to discern better, thus being more Christ like, being the example and discipline that God wants me to be. Participating in The Great Commission so that all that I encounter will know the joy of salvation and be at peace, no matter what hardships they encounter!
My wife and I saw the Mr. Rogers movie with Tom Hanks. I have to admit, growing up, want a big fan, but impressed with the movie of how selfless he was and his devotion to thinking of others as more important than himself.
If I had one desire, is that I could do that consistently without taking into account is those that wrong you, to show the grace always as the Lord does!
verse 22 stood out to me, after I reread it for understanding. at first I kept misreading it and not understanding it, but after reviewing it in MUTLIPLE translations, then NIV again, I got it. he who finds a wife finds what is good and receives favor from the Lord. finding a wife, in and of itself, is good and helps you find favor with the Lord. makes sense, wives help to bring out the best in us and give us a place to channel our physical desires into a healthy, God-approved direction. my goal from yesterday is to restart a fitness regimen to help me lose weight. while I have yet to implement it, I plan to start tomorrow, I can see that it will help with my continued weight loss, increased energy levels, more positive attitude about my physical appearance, and a more positive attitude about the outlook on my physical health in the future. I started the keto diet at the end of September 2019, at 287.8 lbs, and have lost about 40 lbs, down to 249.8 lbs, but have hit a plateau with diet alone and NEED to start my exercise regimen again, along with my diet, to continue to hit my goal weight of somewhere between 165-175 lbs, which should be a healthy weight for my body frame, without overdoing the exercise regimen to the point of injury.
Thanks men for your transparency.
I’m always looking for the shortcut.
There ain’t none. Life is short.
Appreciate you. Keep looking up.
If I was fit again, I would have more energy to give to others around me. Work, family, friends. I wouldn’t need to worry about it and have it pull me away from all those things through laziness, fatigue, or sickness.
If I met my determined goal — I’d make another goal. (Duh) The high school athletes in Pinehurst word for the year is FINISH. I’ve been thinking about that. For me there is no FINISH. There is completion (same thing??) and I’d add one word to their word. FINISH WELL. Finish this one thing; a race, a sprint, lifting XXX pounds, etc. etc. and I’d finish it well. Then — I’d set the next goal. I thought at one time I would FINISH when I reached heaven. Then, after prudent thought, I realize (or hope) that this is just the beginning. I am not at the finish. I’ve more races to run when I get to heaven. So reaching a determined goal is nice, I won’t say it isn’t, and setting new goals after the first is better.
I want my family to not snipe at each other so much, especially the kids to each other, and us to the kids. If I work on being slow to anger, that can permeate through my family
My prayer is for restoration of broken relationships with my daughter and her family. We have been cut off from contact with our grand children, so my vision for accomplishing my goal is that we can be a part of their lives, enriching their lives, even as ours are enriched.
Along that journey, we need brothers, as described in verse 24
24 One who has unreliable friends soon comes to ruin,
but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.
If I excelled in faith I would be more joyful and less worried about past events and how they are killing my future. Having the faith that God will not let my dreams to marry the love of my life run dry (family) I would work harder (finance), exerciser more (fitness), and socially isolate less (friends)
My goal realized will mean less stress and anxiety and more peace and patience.
When Melissa and I practice quality communication, our dynamic is in lock step and we feel closer because of it.
⚡⚡⚡
I met my best friend from growing up in . Church from early age and I e still go to church and love god everyday
Be more intentional in asking strangers that I meet, “To you, who is Jesus?” And loose more weight wisely. Not going to share all the other one things I want to docall it my bucket list.
V10 The name of the Lord is a fortified tower ; the righteous run to it and are safe. God help me to rest knowing that you have full control of my life. The 5f’s don’t seem so overwhelming at times then, your will be done not mine !
12 Before a downfall the heart is haughty,
but humility comes before honor.
Humility has been something I have focussed on for a very long time. I was not taught humility at a young age, and our society pushes the contrary. I know I fall into periods where I give into pride and wanting to look good in other people’s eyes.
With 3-year vision life would be different because it would help me to create better boundaries around the five fs so that I invest my time/talents into the activities that matter most. I would say yes to fewer things, feel more clarity, feel more motivation and be more engaged in the present. This will also produce hope, motivation, clarity and engagement for those affected by my 3-year visions.
I envision my goal of fitness – not to loose weight, but to be healthier and to feel the best I can. i am slow to get started ….urrrrgh!
You’ve got this. Do the best you can. This year I’m making myself drinking 3 litters of water before having one soda and so far I’ve lost 8 lbs from not drinking sodas
Thanks for the encouragement Danny.
Brian, I got some extra pounds that I would gladly love to give you, if you think that would help make you healthier. Will pray that you will accomplish your goal to be healthier and feel it.
Thanks Bruce. I may take you up on it. Since I started reducing my sugar intake and carb intake, I have lost several pounds – maybe too many. Unfortunately I have not replaced that with healthier substitutes, but with your encouragement I will get there.
Yesterday I posted about Faith, Family and Friends being a huge blessing in my and Cheryl’s lives here in Winona, what I failed to include though was the area of improvement. Faith,more particularly, the sharing of my
faith is the area I need to improve on. Sharing with others at the prompting of the Holy Spirit with the background understanding that I don’t see Our Lord’s big picture and I don’t need to. If I’m being prompted to approach someone and hopefully share Christ with them, I need to realize that God is in the business of planting, watering and harvesting and I’m there as a vehicle of delivery. Wow enough said Bless All You guys for your encouragement.
Vs 24. My situation is similar to Wayne’s. I too have a friend closer than a brother. He was an accountability brother before moving to Texas. This dear brother is currently in ICU struggling with cancer. My goal is to be an encouragement to him and his family and also be a witness to my grandchildren, many who live miles away. My only contact is via phone or social media which often makes it much less intimate and more difficult.
Just going to continue today to use the Wisdom of God and just Humble myself a little more every day!!!!
Day25:
Fitness is my area that I need to be different. I would like to be more in shape. I often fall flat at about 3 weeks every time I try to create a rhythm in this area. I am going to start seeking help/advice to figure out how to extend that time longer and create a sustainable rhythm.
The other thing I got from Prov. 18 is that words have incredible power. Trying to discern how to do that in my life more. I want to be a person who speaks life.
“ The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge, for the ears of the wise seek it out.
The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit.”
Proverbs 18:15, 21 NIV
“Don’t make friends who are comfortable to be with. Make friends who will force you to lever yourself up.”
– Thomas J. Watson
Proverbs 18 is a great tool for accountability. Friends are important but I need brothers that will help me to move from where I presently am.
On my goal I have selected, I know if I have brothers that will lever me up to work on my fitness it will improve every area of my life. I find it difficult to move from where I am when my body is sluggish!
I prayed before reading that God would show me how to quarrel less (with kids and my wife) since that is where I want to focus in my accountability. Boom, God hits me in verse 1 with the core of my problem: selfishness. I need to serve more and set my own wants and perceived slights aside.
18:1 An unfriendly person pursues selfish ends
and against all sound judgment starts quarrels.
Vs 10 the name of the lord is like a fortified tower and the righteous run to it because it is safe. What a wonderful feeling to be consoled
v2 fools find no pleasure in understanding but delight in airing their opinions. Was talking with my wife about this today how sometimes we talk before we think and how by doing that we can hurt one another just so we are heard. How true. Gods spirit has started making me aware of this situation lately so I hope I will catch myself and stop myself before I put my foot in my mouth and hurt someone just so I am heard.
13 To answer before listening—
that is folly and shame.
Something I constantly need to work on. Giving time and listening to others means so much to them. Being a good listener is so much better than being someone who talks all the time!!
My goal is fitness! Want to lose 12 pounds. I believe I was put on the earth to serve people who are of poor health and/or resources. I can only truly do this if I’m in good health. Would also like to go on a mission trip building homes and it is helpful to do these events being of sound health and wellness.
Proverbs 18- listen carefully to what is coming out of my mouth. It can show me what is going on inside. What am I spending my time listening to or watching? Do I love life? (The fruit of wisdom/wise truths?)
My own words lately have betrayed my insecurity and focus on what others are seeing of me. My heart desires an easier road in life and daily. That makes me crave simple pleasures like entertainment, and people being pleased with my performance- especially as a believer.
But I want a secure heart. My focus needs to shift, and I need help from someone greater than me. He offers it freely.
I notice that when I choose to listen to godly men and make the content of my ear time a priority it does affect my decision making.
My area is listening. I find myself wanting to jump in too quick in a conversation and I find dont always understand what the conversation is really about. If I can learn to listen better, I can show others that I really do care. When I show them I care, they will trust me more and my friendship (and marriage) will grow stronger!
After reading Proverbs 18 (verse 17) In a lawsuit the first to speak seems right,
until someone comes forward and cross-examines.) – It reminds me of the Impeachment hearings. It also reminds me that we are to pray for our leaders regardless of what side of the isle we’re on. And, in today’s polarized world that can be difficult.
For me this message points out the importance of having fellow believers in your life to share and grow in faith. I have been blessed with 3 other brothers who share the same faith and who openly speak Gods word with each other. They have been huge in my spiritual growth and I am blessed to call them my brothers in Christ. My goal it to more openly share our faith with other friends and family and bring Gods word into my home regularly so others may see the transformation He has had on my life and the life of my brothers.
Yesterday I chose the Family “F” when in reality it is the marriage “M”.
Second marriage (in 10th year) to a wonderful Christian woman with my 27 year old son from previous marriage (diabetic and likely bi-polar) the common centerpiece of our flare ups. Gets exhausting and ages me as I am thankful when things work but feel accountable for everything when it doesn’t.
Seeking strength to give both praise and challenges to Christ daily without taking back control of all the challenges. Trying to be a better listener, more understanding and not feel like a deer caught in the headlights. These daily exercises bring me closer then I let life pull me back. Must do better. Sorry for such a long post gents.
Love your conviction and honesty about wanting to change and improve your “M” Jeff! Stay the course!
1 Whoever isolates himself seeks his own desire, he breaks out against all sound judgment. Times of isolation (presence, verbal, action) in marriage, work, decisions, thoughts, and relations. Accountability includes more than myself.
I am accomplishing my God determined goals and I like where God has me! It hasn’t always been easy though.
My area is openness, so my picture of the future is closer relationships where I am not ashamed or shy of using my life or my stories to be able to build into those around me.
My life would be different in every field. Faith would be stronger. Family would be happier. Finances would be more consistent. My fitness would be daily. My friendships would be better for longer. All from just being more patient and understanding of others needs and feelings. I’m really enjoying the proverbs. They tune in to so many fine details of our personal behaviors.
Wow! Yesterday I said I would like to be in fellowship with other brothers. Today’s reading opened and closed on that theme. I know what it is like to be involved in men’s ministry, I just need to get back there.
straighten family increase size and be more responsible.
I picked fitness, not realizing that it is not just physical that needs work. My spiritual body needs work, with some major diet of humble pie. I need to work out the planks in my own eyes. Some may even be 6x6s. Some one said if I could learn scriptures the way that I memorize jokes, oh the things the lord can do. I can honestly say. I am willing to let God lead me. I am not sure what to expect. I stepped into the 35 day challenge blindly. I can feel God moving. Just from reading proverbs I can see that wisdom helps in all aspects of life.
Surround yourself with brothers that will support you and love you and help you stay the course to the Lord.
My goal is to be apart of a men’s ministry that leads more guys to Christ. Think of the blessings our churches, schools and communities would receive if we even doubled men believing in Christ!
BTW- verse 6 made me LOL!
Praying and trusting in God for a Christian peer or mentor to walk with. So I my grow in faith to be a more capable of leading my family, my church and my community in services to God in a manner that brings Him Glory.
I will seek answers to the question “Why?” Seek first to understand. Need to keep asking the “Why?” question until the true root cause is identified. I believe this will help me see others behaviors in a less negative light. God will help me be more discerning as I seek to understand troubling, aggravating, and undesirable behaviors from my fellow man.
My faith walk, if I will improve this then I will be able to be a better husband, friend, father and leader.
Ia m so far behind in completing these daily challenges, but they have helped me see an emence amount of work I need to do, especially finding a christian brother.
Sam – Just the fact that you are concerned about how far behind shows that God is working in your life. If he wasn’t you would care about your progress. Just keep on plugging away and like Vince says “It will change your life” God knows you completely and you are exactly where he wants you to be!
Eric
Thanks so much for the encouragement, it is greatly appreciated and needed.
Sam
My pleasure Sam. Have a great week. Eric
Learning to live Day by Day as a Proverb guy would be great !! Lord help me to be more receptive to others !!
You are not alone Sam. Beginning to add a new routine to our already busy days can be very difficult. I too have struggled to complete the challenge everyday. Jus remember that God undertsands and every day is a new beginning!
Verse 24b – “There is a friend that sticks closer than a brother.” I had this kind of friend and lost him to cancer. I pray that God gives me another friend to take his place. I am looking to drop 25 pounds, be able to walk 3 miles, improve my flexibility and balance. This would help me to be able to keep up with my seven grandkids. I want to be able to spend time with my grandkids and share God’s love for each of them. That they would know Jesus as their personal Savior.
Wayne, my situation is so similar to yours. Thanks for sharing.
Dave, were you trying to reply to Wayne or Dean Wendler? If it is Dean Wendler, need to know your last name for sure. Heading to Phoenix for golf and sunshine for a week.
Have a great week.
Dean Wendler
Sorry, this was intended for you, Dean. Sounds like we are experiencing similar circumstances with loved ones and cancer and grandchildren who need to hear the Gospel message. Enjoy your time in AZ. I lived in Tucson for 10 years and dearly miss it this time of year.
Maybe we can get together when I get back to Winona? Be fun to talk over a cup of coffee. Weather is warm and sunny. Really enjoying seeing the sun. Take care, Dean
Verse 22 stands out to me this morning. After God, my wife is the blessing of my life. I am praying that her spiritually life grows even more and that her health improves better that we may continue to enjoy ourselves as retirement is near. She has always been a blessing to me!
Amen!