She Reads Truth News and Giveaway
I don’t believe in coincidences.
In January of last year, atop a volcano crater in Maui, I had an awakening.
My heart was set on fire.
I felt so very small, but filled with Something so big.
I returned to the mainland with a new purpose–to renew my faith, to live with intention, to be more present, and to know His presence more.
I had no plan.
But I had prayer. I had a church family and friends. I had the Word and my hit-or-miss, shotgun approach to studying it.
Then came She Reads Truth.
And suddenly I had a plan. I had thousands of women, imperfect, try-hard women like me, committed to the study of Scripture. And suddenly I was looking forward to waking up every morning, pouring myself a very large cup of coffee, cracking open my Bible and scrawling in my journal. I looked forward to sharing what the verses were saying to me and gaining deeper understanding by reading what those words meant to others.
And then I got one of those emails. With news. The kind that makes you shake with excitement, squeal and makes anyone within 100 feet of you a little concerned.
The women behind She Reads Truth, Kacia, Jessi, and Rachael, women who I considered both my friends and my spiritual mentors, asked me to start writing the devotional plans with them.
Of course, I replied, “Yes!!!!!” far too quickly and with far too many exclamation points to feign coolness.
And by no coincidence, my first contribution to the study comes today. The day we leave Maui. The day, just like every other day since that morning on the mountaintop, that I choose to live my life with the purpose of seeking more of Him.
This time I definitely have a plan.
And I’d love to share it with you.
You can find the reading plans on the YouVersion app on your smart phone or computer, or you can subscribe via email on the SheReadsTruth web site. Then join in the discussion by following the #SheReadsTruth hashtag on Twitter or Instagram, or commenting on the daily posts on the web site. Learn more by going here.
In addition, I’m giving away one of these beautiful She Reads Truth journals that you can have personalized with your name. Where you can record what He’s putting on your heart.
(this is a mini-journal, the prize is full-size)
To enter, leave a comment telling me what your purpose is for this coming year.
I’ll announce a winner in the next post.
I’m grateful for this next chapter I’m writing, and grateful for your willingness to let me share it.
And that’s Truth.
*************
The winner of the Rudi’s Organic Giveaway is Lacey Ann. Please email me your mailing info to peasandthankyou@hotmail.com and we will get your prizes on their way!
Love this and LOVE She Reads Truth! My purpose for this coming year is to continue to be refined by Him, and for the first time, I’m trying to read the whole Bible in a year! He’s going to do BIG THINGS!!
That’s wonderful, Anne. I’ve always wanted to do the Bible in a year but have never taken the plunge. I know it will be fruitful for you!
I have just found She Reads Truth- and I am really excited to get started with the plan! Last year God gave me a dream and a mission- this year I will continue to pay down my student loan and pursue knowledge and growth required to get on with it!
Yes! You can do it!
I started a very new journey in 2012: building my relationship with Him, and She Reads Truth was definitely a part of that. My purpose this year is hopefully to discover my purpose in this world. I’m graduating law school in May with no direction, no idea what career to pursue or where to live. I’m praying for His guidance!
I have just finished 3 years of returning to nursing school-60 hour weeks with a husband working completely unpredictable work hours-with 2 small children and no daycare. It is nothing but the work of God that I have graduated! I learned so much and grew in my faith even more-I simply cannot do it without Him. Thanks to you, I also discovered SRT. I can’t seem to put my Bible down, morning or night (whenever I can steal away time!) Now, I am committed to catching up on dates with my neglected hubby, playing legos, puzzles, reading chapter books and more arts and crafts than I can imagine-I missed my life in the last 3 years! But I’m striving to put Christ in the center of it all as I’m putting my focus back on the important things in life.
Beautiful, Heather. I’m so glad you’ve found Him through all you’ve carried this season of you life!
I guess we shall see what His purpose is for me for this year, because I’ve learned that any plans I make, His are even bigger and better. In the meantime, I am reading through the New Testament this year, reading it aloud to my 4 month old son, and doing a daily devotional with him, because its never too early to start being immersed in God’s word!
Blessings to you!
Ha! Good point, Lauren. His purpose IS greater.
What a lovely giveaway! My purpose this year is to keep a balance and not let worldly law-school stresses become overbearing
Oh man, that’s a toughie, but He can do all things!
My goal is to be more consistent in reading the word–I too often left a few days go by and then feel the tremendous guilt as I realize that I’ve neglected God’s word. I am so very blessed and need to shout praises for all God has done for me!
Absolutely! I hope you’ll join us on this SRT plan.
My purpose is to be in the word more- daily is the goal. And shereadstruth helps me do just that!!!
Yes!
MamaPea, it makes me so happy to see how far you have come. I’ve been reading since the days of your old blog, and while I liked you then, I love you now and I think that’s because your love of God is so evident.
My purpose for this year is to listen for God’s purpose in my life, whether it is as a wife, as a mother to my daughter (and my unborn child due in August), as a friend, or at my job. I believe that He has work for me in all of these places and I need to be better at listening to how He is trying to work through me.
Thank you so much, Katie. That means a lot.
He does have so much purpose in every role we play!
My goal for 2013 is to liberate all the potential that I have been stockpiling and talking myself out of. God has made me wonderful. It is high time to walk into that.
Amen. He makes beautiful things out of our messes!
Mamapea you have inspired me to follow the She Reads Truth plan. My purpose for this year is to grow in my faith. Thank you for this amazing giveaway!!
This makes me smile.
Beautiful post Mama Pea! I love the She Reads Truth movement and really want to make it a part of my life this year. I think my purpose for 2013 is to become a better friend. It’s an area that’s been feeling out of balance due to the stresses of everything else that gets in the way, but I have some pretty awesome friends and I want them to know how great they are!
That’s a beautiful goal, Angela.
I’m not sure what Gods purpose is for me yet. I’m excited to find out though!!
Me too.
I feel my purpose this year, it to focus more on eternal things…..like relationships and being a good example of faith to my three young children. I’m excited to check out she reads truth! I need to get back into the habit of daily devotions and prayer.
Yes! We are such important models of faith to our little ones, I’m reminded of this every day.
My purpose for this year is to practice grace in all possible ways.
Oh yes. Me too. Especially as a wife and mom.
My purpose this year is ‘joy’. Find joy in The Lord. Find joy in every day life. Bring joy to others. And when times are tough…The joy of The Lord is my Strength.
Yes! I am making it a practice to call on that strength!
My purpose it to find a new church family! I started following along with SheReadsTruth last year and came to realize I had been seeking community everywhere but where my heart was telling me too.
I hope you find a church home soon!
My purpose is to find me. Sometimes I get busy and feel so lost……
Praying you can find who you are called to be!
My purpose this year is to help my brother find his strength. He has been down for a few years and I want him to know he is not alone and there is purpose and joy out there for all of us. It’s always tough seeing someone you love not feeling their best.
I have been there. Remember that only He can do the work, but you can pray and love your brother in the meantime.
My purpose for this year is to be more grateful and to appreciate whatever the Lord decides to send my way.
I echo that!
MY purpose is to live simply so that others may simply live.
My purpose this year is to stay committed to SRT and start a women’s small group in my community. Also my boyfriend and I have recommitted to prayer by trading off who writes one each day and praying it together. We’re collecting them all in a big book. Our ultimate purpose is that all our thoughts, words, and actions would all be to the glory of His name.
That is a beautiful practice!
As a newlywed, keeping God center of our relationship and our lives is my purpose. Showing Hos love through my actions is something I plan to love out daily.
My purpose this year is to NOT try to find my purpose and rely on God’s timing and strengthening instead. Sometimes its just too easy to find the “correct” answer in society’s eyes, but it takes a lot more strength to trust in God’s perfect planning!
Absolutely. His timing is perfect.
Gratitude…after reading” One Thousand Gifts,” I’m committed to being aware of all the many gifts I’m given each day by a very loving Father.
My purpose this year is to be in (and enjoy) the moment. I focus so much on planning ahead; I really need to stop and appreciate what I’ve been given at the time. Looking forward to starting She Reads Truth!
Convicted! I’m a planner too.
My purpose this year is to be the best teacher I can be to my students by working hard to challenge them in the classroom, and to also show that I love and care about each of them.
My purpose in 2013 is to live as a Daughter, not as an orphan! A daughter loves and trusts, doesn’t question or fear.
Love it.
my purpose is to use the talents and passions God gave me to tackle my career change and move towards something that helps others on a daily basis
I have no doubt you will!
I had a feeling you’d be writing for SRT and I could NOT be more thrilled! You know how much I love the way you share your heart (like how this post just moved me to tears? Yet again? Yeah…). I am so excited that you’ll be helping other women, just like us, to learn more about God’s word and his grace.
Love you
The feeling is totally mutual. <3
My purpose this year is to embrace the talents and passions the Lord has given me and work towards my career and personal goals while becoming a better wife, daughter, sister, and friend. Loved this post… thanks for sharing
My purpose is to choose joy everyday. I’ve hard a hard year with a sick baby and I’ve lost sight of everything but ‘survival.’ It’s time to refocus of living this precious life.
I’m so sorry, Amy. Praying this year is full of joy for you and your little one.
Oh wow – so excited for you joining writing with the #shereadstruth studies. They reinvigorated my quiet times too, although I’m trying a different plan right now. More time in the word is never a bad thing, so I’ll have to check out this study now.
Oh – and my word of the year is Balance, starting with putting (and keeping) God as the first thing to set everything else in its place!
Balance is key! Hoping we can encourage each other to press forward with our current read too!
My purpose this year is: Faith. I will have faith in God, faith in family, faith in the health of my unborn child and faith that God knows the path that my life is taking. I’m so happy to be on this journey and I need to remember that having faith is an integral part!
My purpose is to live simply and with joyful love. I think the two go hand in hand. In a world of disconnection, consumerism, and materialism it is becoming so crucial to live with great joy and love. Particularly with the teens and young adults I work with – many are missing that joy and love in their lives.
Yes, yes, yes.
I am looking forward to this year and what God has planned for my family and me. One of my goals is to be more intentional – to look outside of my self and focus on others. Hubs and I are now heading up the youth ministry at church and we are learning everyday about patience, kindness, and compassion! I have been looking for a new Bible study/devotional and now have signed up for the She Reads Truth email!
My purpose for this next year is doing everything with intention. Intentionally making quality quiet times, calling family and friends, making time for myself, and so on and on. Great giveaway!
I have those same goals. Intention is key, not perfection.
My purpose this year is to be present in every moment and provide my family with unconditional love.
She Reads Truth has had such a positive impact on my life!! My purpose for this year is to continue growing in my relationship with Christ and to learn all about marriage and putting God first (in June
Congrats!
My purpose is to remain open to what God has planned for me. We are expecting our first child this summer, and I am questioning whether or not I will stay home or continue working. My prayer is that God will make clear the path for us when the time comes to decide.
My purpose is to become exactly who my Father wants me to be. No more pushing back, embrace all things that come my way. I trust Him and I know He will guide me.
my purpose this year is to draw closer to Him in order to live the life He has planned for me. i’m excited to see what this year brings!
I should have known! When I read today’s devotional, I thought, “Wow, this really speaks to me today!” I should have known you wrote it! I’m so glad you’ll be writing for these. I read it everyday while eating breakfast.
My purpose this year is to quit worrying and to be open to what God has planned for me.
I wondered if our “writer’s voice” came through. I’m honored to be a part of this study with you!
Should have known that brussels sprouts analogy came from you!! It’s funny (or not really funny) this morning as I was reading, I thought SPECIFICALLY (for the first time) what a blessing the girls who write the devotionals are…and then prayed for whoever (you) had written the one today. I’m so happy that God led us to be friends.
My purpose for this year is to simply TRUST God and His master plan for my life. Stop trying to control all the little details and just hunker down in His presence and let Him do His thing in my life.
You are choking me up, friend. And I actually love Brussels sprouts
Email coming soon…
My purpose is to appreciate the everyday opportunities…not worrying what was yesterday or the future…Love the here and now…
My purpose for 2012 comes from Romans 12:2 Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.
i am ready for a transformation and renewal of my mind!!
My purpose is to “let go and let God”. I try to control everything in my life and I worry so much. God says he will take care of me and I should not worry. This year I am going to try to not worry and just trust in God. He has always taken care of me and He always will.
My purpose is to glorify Him in the midst of my job hunt. I trust that He has the perfect plan and place for me even when I don’t understand it. I’m striving to live out the Truth of Proverbs 3:5-6 each day.
I love this.
my purpose for this year is to let myself grow.
This year I’d like to let go of the hurt and anger I’ve been carrying around and let God’s love heal me.
That’s a big one, J. But He makes all things possible.
Sweet
My purpose this year is to be more present for my family.
You are a superstar at this in my eyes!
to restore my body! an mind
My purpose is to be a Godly example to my two precious girls and help them come to know Christ personally!
Beautiful!
My goal for this next year is to stop living like the rabid dogs are chasing me… to live in gratitude of the gifts that God has given me and stop always look for what’s next.
Gratitude is the key.
Amen sista!
My purpose is to be a Helper to my husband. To bring him good not harm all the days of my life.
Yes. This has been a big one for me. And has totally changed the way I see our marriage.
My purpose this year is to grow my relationship with God and to teach my daughter by example what it means to live a “Christ-filled” life.
My purpose is to behave….I need to focus on my behaviors, my walk…in order to be the woman God has designed me to be.
To stop letting the demons of my childhood and an eating disorder define who I am. Enough is enough….now I just need to find the strength on a daily basis to fight the demons.
Keep growing, in more ways than one.
My purpose for the coming year is to get closer to Him. I used to be so unaffected by everything religious and as I age I find myself wanting to be more fulfilled, yet not able to find fulfillment. I was really affected by the Advent study from She Reads Truth and I think that maybe I was looking in the wrong places for fulfillment.
Also, hoping to eliminate our debt this year by working with my husband towards a common goal.
My purpose this year is to say “Yes” to Him every day, every step. My purpose is to not try to figure this out on my own, but let Him be the Leader. My purpose is total and complete Trust- I’m thinking it may be a bit painful, but worth it.
I’ll be there as many steps as I can. Love you.
I already love this app and reading plan! How cool that now you’re behind it too! My purpose this year is to glorify Him through the trials and tribulations of this thing called dating and to point others to Him at every opportunity!
So cool! Thanks for the cool news and opportunity to share in it!
My purpose for the coming year is to appreciate the blessings of each day and to bring joy into the lives of others! Thanks for sharing this beautiful post!
My purpose for this year is to strive to be the woman Christ asks of me. To be a supportive wife, caring and loving mommy to my 1 month old son, a better friend and above all an obedient servant to Him.
My purpose is to find true joy in Him – not temporary happiness based on my situation or conditions, but the joy that can only be found in knowing Him and having true gratitude for His love.
Wow! What an honor.
My purpose over the next year is to live my life in a way that reflects the joy that I have for all of the great things that God has done in my life over the past year and in a way that will inspire others who do not know Him to seek after Him.
One of my purposes this year is to focus on my health (get my Type 1 Diabetes under better control) and to get my body “baby-ready” so my husband and I can try having a baby!
My purpose this year is to continue to grow into the woman that God has made me.
To heal myself, to give myself SPACE, and to grow.
Mama Pea, I just have to tell you what a blessing She Reads Truth has been to me! You first tipped me off to it last summer, and ever since it has helped me dig deeper and grow stronger in His Word. Thank you so much for shining His light in this little corner of the internet, and for your obedience. It has furthered my walk in faith, no question. I am excited to hear (read) your voice among the other talented ladies with my morning oatmeal.
My purpose this year: More of HIM, less of me.
I’m honored and touched. We aren’t doing any of this–He is. But thank you nonetheless. And less of me is always a good thing.
My purposeful intent this year is to LISTEN. This applies not only to my Lord Jesus but also to the people in my life. My tendency is to talk a lot – which is fine, as long as I make sure I LISTEN to what the other person has to say .. and *then* do my own speaking.
My purpose this year is to live with purpose. And find joy in the small things.
What wonderful news!
I have really enjoyed witnessing this transformation on your blog & have found it so encouraging. My purpose for this year is to get into the Word more. I say this every year but I have found “Bible in a year” plans to be too overwhelming & then I end up stopping. I LOVED the She Reads Truth plans but haven’t started a new one since becoming busy with my dietetic internship in August. I have been meaning to start again & I think this is the reminder I needed 
Thanks for providing so much encouragement for fellow imperfect women trying to seek God more in everything they do 
Ah! This absolutely lights me on fire. I love that you have the opportunity to write with them. God will use you, for sure.
My purpose for this new year is to continue to see myself as part of God’s big plan, to pray and act accordingly.
That is a beautiful goal, Abby. I hope for that as well.
It is apparent that God has really moved in your heart over the last year. It is a blessing to read your posts and see what happens when we shift our focus a bit, yes?
My purpose for this year is to be more intentional with my “God time”. To me, this has to mean simply spending more time in the Word. Our church will be reading through “The Story ” and this will be my start to learning what God has planned as my story through the study of this book. What a cool opportunity! Will be following SheReads on Twitter.
Thank you, Carole. I am so grateful for His work in my heart (which will always be a work in progress) but I can even give thanks for all the yuckiness I had to go through to make that shift.
I admire your goals.
My purpose this year is to find God’s purpose for my life. For 21 years, my purpose was teaching preschool. Then, in 2011, at age 40, I gave birth to my beautiful daughter and quit my job to be a mom. Now, almost two years later, I am loving being a mom, but am struggling to find more purpose for my life.
There is great purpose in being a mom! Don’t discredit His presence in that role. <3
My purpose for this year is to try to have patience with His timing. (Sort of a large feat for a type-A like myself!) Also trying to regularly get into the Word, and to give my relationship with Him the priority and time it deserves.
You are preaching to the choir there, girl.
I didn’t make any “resolutions” for the year. I have some goals and ideas that I would like to accomplish but mainly, I wan this year to be one in which I am more focused on the things that matter to me which are my friends and family.
I think those are fantastic goals, Eileen.
I plan to have two purposes in 2013: Pray and Patience. I would like my prayers or time with Him to be more meaningful, to guide me to His purpose on that given day. And Patience which is something my personality type has been trying to accomplish for years, I feel good about this being the year I actually learn though.
Just like making a New Years resolution, I have a hard time pinpointing a single purpose for a full year. I suppose I would say i need to rely more on god for strength and guidance and less on myself. I tend to plan before seeking guidance and have become frustrated when my plans did not work out. Of course, I could have avoided the frustration if I had sought help from the right place the first time
To be in the world but not of it. I need to remember that this world is only my temporary home and try to “… not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” Also… “Do everything without complaining or arguing” (-:
I actually just started a She Reads Truth program this morning after months of putting off my other ones. It feels really great to be involved with my faith again. So, in keeping with that spirit, I really want to to try to stick with my faith this year and develop it further. I grew up in a very religious family, but as I’ve gone off to school and lived on my own I’ve felt myself pulled further from my faith whether it be because of my schedule or other commitments. I want to fix that.
Oh, and congrats on being chosen to help develop the plans! I can’t think of a better person they could have chosen.
Thank you, Liz.
To have more patience, I tend to want things now, “microwave generation” <– right here. And to completely Let god have all of me not just bits and pieces but ever area of my life. He wants it all, and that's what I feel he is asking for.
Thank you so much Sarah! My purpose this year is to find a supportive ‘home’ church community in Chicago. Since moving here almost 2 years ago (!), I have yet to find a church I feel connected to and support is so helpful!
My purpose is to have more courage when talking to others and in my friendships.
My purpose? To meditate my way towards always being aware and accepting of all around me. To be mindful that the first place positive change must occur is within. And to radiate unconditional love love to all. I have recently been desiring to write and journal this path. I just need to start…
I’ve started several of the She Reads Truth plans and they are always amazing and timely, and then I let them slide to the back burner.. So my goal for this year is to put Jesus first!
I just found shereadstruth over advent and am excited to keep following along more.
this year I want to trust the Lord and people in my life better
My purpose for this year is to close my mouth & start listening. To stop making all these grandiose plans for myself & learn to hear what God is telling me to do with my life & the gifts that he’s given me. To learn to slow down & really start LIVING life, not sit around waiting for the next chapter to begin!
My purpose for this year is to be more intentional about showing others the love that Jesus has shown to me – and to all of us! It’s so easy to get carried away in all the things that need to be done, and sort of “forget” at times that every moment and encounter should be spend in a way that is pleasing to Him. I also love the She Reads Truth reading plans. I’ve recommended them to other women when they are looking for a reading plan!
My purpose for this year is to begin each day with personal, sincere prayer. I had an incredible experience early in the morning of January 1 this year and I am 100% with you, it was not a coincidence! I was feeling extremely discouraged and I had a verse of scripture come to mind, not one I had read or heard recently, and seemingly unrelated to what I was worrying about, but when I went to look it up it lead me on an amazing scripture study and I was so grateful for the insight, peace and encouragement it gave me. The strong message I received was “begin each day with personal prayer,” something I have always done, but not as consistent and heartfelt as I knew I needed. I filled several pages of my journal with this experience, but it was when I finally heeded the message and knelt down in personal prayer that I truly understood the importance of the message. I felt so grateful and so guided. It was no coincidence that this experience occurred at a time to make new resolutions and in the very hour I was to accomplish this daily goal. Anyway, long post, but it was a life-changing experience for me and I felt like sharing. Thank you for sharing this, I’m excited to check it out!
My purpose is to listen to God’s purpose for me and my family as we welcome our second daughter into our lives (she will be here next Wednesday!).
So excited to read your contributions over at She Reads Truth! What an honor!
This post brought me to tears. I am so moved and inspired. My goal for the year is to have this. All you wrote. Have written. What people have posted. I want to be closer to Him. More present. I need…something. To find my way. I have hopes and plans for what He brings my husband and I this year but before that I need to begin more prayer. Reflection. Allow myself to do nothing. Relax. Breathe. Live. I would love to begin SheReadsTruth
Please do! If you need any help or guidance, shoot me an email. And I’ll add you to my prayers. I’m thrilled He’s calling you back.
My purpose is to listen to Him and fulfill my destiny that He has already written for me. I plan on being more intentional in my quiet times, more present in my small group, and more aware of His presence in my day-to-day life. I plan on taking my MCATS this spring and matriculating to a medical school, to be a healer, and to touch peoples’ lives with His presence and grace. I plan on reading more of the Truth.
I can relate! My purpose this year is to find HIS purpose. To find where he wants me to serve and truly live like Jesus, loving others and showing God’s love. I want to live an intentional life and make true relationships with those around me. I am excited about everything I know God will show me.
I’m so thankful that you posted this today! SheReadsTruth fell off my radar during the holiday blah-dee-blahs, so this was the perfect kick in the hiney to get me back on track.
I’m glad SOMEone gets to go to Hawaii around here. I’ve got the drears! We haven’t been to Hawaii since our honeymoon almost 9 years ago… wistful sigh… Maui sounds truly divine.
I’m going to look up SheReadsTruth since I already have YouVersion on my phone. My purpose this year is to “seek first the Kingdom of God” and follow Him!!
I love SheReadsTruth! What a blessing it was for me to find it one day last summer. I am not even sure how I found it. Probably while looking for a vegetarian cookbook for more ideas for Meatless Monday, which led me to your book, which led me to your blog, where you must have mentioned in a post sometime. Whatever, that doesn’t matter, I found a Bible study at a time when I so desperately needed God’s Word in my life.
Anyway, my purpose this year is to find my purpose and make it happen. Be patient and allow myself to bend to God’s Will. No more fighting it.
I heard about She Reads Truth through you and I am excited to learn more about it! This year, my purpose is to really discern God’s plan for me while I study abroad in El Salvador. I will be gone January 16th-May 15th, and wil have the immense privilege of taking classes, accompanying Salvadorans at a service site twice a week, and forming a community with the 17 other students in my program. With the help of reflections, spirituality nights, and a spiritual direction mentor, I hope to focus in on His calling for me and to take each step of my future with humbled grace for all that He has granted me.
I love She Reads Truth! I’ve read about it from you and from Jenna at Eat, Live, Run…I’m definitely excited to hear more about it since it seems like it’d be of interest to me.
My purpose this year is to be more present in each moment, and to be nicer to people. Only 5 days into the new year, and being nicer has already made me *happier* – we can all stand to be a little kinder, and I’ve found that while helping others, the act also helps me immensely! Love it!
About a week ago a a friend of my sisters and I passed away in a sudden accident. He was only 19 and it has helped me further realize to appreciate everything life has to offer and always let the ones you love know it. I am determined to be the person I want to be. I want to love and learn and use everyday getting to know myself and the people around me better.
My purpose is to find the beauty in EVERY day!
My purpose is to create a happy, healthy life for my family.
My purpose is to continue to grow into my new role as a wife, and to quit doubting decisions i make in my professional life by trusting in Him to guide me.
I could’ve written this myself. I’m such a doubter even after all the decisions are said and done… and then I feel stuck!
I have 4 wonderful children which are growing up so fast. My oldest graduates from highschool in a few months. My youngest is in the first grade. I feel life is passing by and I am watching it go, but somehow I have been on the sidelines. I want to be an active participant. I want to try and soak in as many details as I can about my children and my husband. Not just go with the flow and keep wishing for the next weekend or vacation to hurry up and come, but to try and truly enjoy a little of every day. Life seems so over whelming at times. I’m really am trying to not stress about the things you can’t control, Nd not everything needs to be perfect and in its place.. This isn’t my resolution for the new year. This is more of a life goal I guess. I am very OCD and not good at letting go. Ask my husband.
My purpose is to be more purposeful in all areas of my life.
This year is all about Rejuvenation. The plan is simply to listen for God to tell me what He wants to do and hopefully do it.
My purpose is to spend time with Him daily.
To say more and more every day, “Speak, Lord, for Your servant hears,”. To seek His righteousness instead of seeking my own worldly gain. To daily be amazed my His wondrous grace! To “let the word of Christ dwell in [me] richly.” Col. 3:16 To be an encouragement and not a hinderance to those around me.
I’m not exactly sure what my purpose is but I am committed/ing to seeking God first and following his path instead of my own.
My purpose for this year is to do God’s Will, not mine.
After the loss of a good friend last month I have been desperately trying to figure out what my purpose is for this year because I know it needs to change and needs to matter more. Last night I was trying to pinpoint it then I thought that maybe it was time to come back to the church after of a few years of very little attendance. Funny enough the first email I read when I got up is your feed and then I realized maybe Mama Pea is trying to tell me something! I think it’s time to start checking out she reads. Thanks Mama Pea for your spot on timing!
I am so sorry for your loss, Heather.
my purpose for this year is to trust God’s purpose for me, and to have faith in the process.
my purpose for this year is to trust God’s purpose for me, and to have faith in the process.
LOVE #SheReadsTruth!! My purpose this year is to put God first more, and everything else later.
I am so excited for you too Sarah! It’s no coincidence a dear friend of mine turned me onto your blog last March…one read and I was hooked. But it wasn’t until you shared a bit more about your faith that I felt like I had the connection I was searching for. Like you, I was going to church and trying to be a “good” Christian but I had NO PLAN– especially not a plan for my children in raising them with God’s Word. When you announced the She Reads Truth plan, my life was changed forever! You, my friend, led me to Him!
My hope for this coming year is to be more intentional in everything that I do (weeding out the rif-raf) and just maybe turn someone else (or more than someone) onto His Word, like you did me. It’s all about paying it forward!
My purpose = to be a better wife.
My purpose is to first draw closer to God, be more diligent in my daily job as mother and wife and also completely rehauling the way my family eats. No more chemicals and processed junk!!
My purpose for this year is to use the voice He’s given me without fear. To discern when I should speak up and when to just be quiet and listen to Him too. Sometimes I’m too quiet about things, but sometimes I’m not quiet before Him enough.
Congratulations on writing for She reads Truth. I am not exactly sure what my purpose for this year is-beyond glorifying God in all I do. Our family is taking a trip to Asia to visit missionary friends in two weeks, and my whole focus is on that right now. Almost 2 months of the year will be gone when we get back. My purpose for the trip is to be an encouragement for each of our friends.
I would like nothing more than to know my purpose for this year! In this moment, it’s definitely putting down my busyness long enough to realize that I need God for peace and rest because my circumstances certainly don’t allow it otherwise.
Also, I really loved yesterday’s devotional. How cool that you wrote it! I, too, have “taken a bite of that same life-condemning fruit. I have been discontent to trust the Lord God in the garden of provisions he has made for me.” Thank you for sharing!
Thank you for blessing us with your post today – I am truly grateful for the smiles they bring to me….each and every one.
My purpose this year is to align what I do with His calling on my life. I desire to quiet my voice and turn up His so that I can walk in His Word. My purpose is to listen and then take action based on His will for my life.
Would appreciate prayers that I will be obedient!
My purpose in 2013 is to listen intently to what God has planned for me. My boyfriend and I (5 years) just broke up and I feel now more than ever that I need to make sure that I am listening to what God is leading me to and trust what he has in store for me. Especially now that I am starting fresh. Its is a scary time and I am needing to find comfort in his word and in his plan.
alex, i am grateful that he came into your life to teach you about yourself! and i am sure he has learned much from you…it isn’t always clear right away, but that is absolutely true! your spirits were drawn together for a reason, today you are different because of him, and he is different because of you…the heartaches and the struggles and the seeming “failures” help us grow! the truth is we don’t grow much at all during the happy times! and the purpose of being on this planet is to GROW in the time we are here! it sounds like you are embarking into the, yes, scary unknown, but you can also look at it as god’s grand adventure! god is so many steps ahead of you! try a “freefall” into TRUST and i guarantee you will not be disappointed! the “puzzle pieces” of life start falling into place and creating the most beautiful picture of our lives for us! and the more times you trust, the more times you freefall, the easier and more exciting it gets! hope you don’t mind my responding, i appreciate that you would share so specifically and honestly, it benefits us all, and i am feeling grateful for having read your post!
Thanks for the response Gail! You brought up a lot of good points and I really like your use of the word “freefall”. Your perspective has made me see the recent events in a new light and I appreciate that. More than you will ever know!
every event in our life unfolds at just the right time for us, to see something new in ourselves, to grow, to understand more clearly why we are here, and become aware of what we need, want, deserve and have to offer…and each person, whether they stay with us a short time or walk alongside us til the end, brings with them information, they are our guides in some way…life doesn’t always feel good and the “freefall” in the midst of a broken heart or other pain is one of the most terrifying things to do, but personal experience allows me to share with you that you can trust it to send you on to something greater…life is truly on your side, alex…make sure you look for the voice of god in people, stay aware of the sunny, bright, beautiful, encouraging moments that are there to lift you and remind you “everything is ok, YOU are ok! and LIFE IS BEAUTIFUL!”
This year I want to be a better wife and a better daughter of Christ. That’s it in a nutshell. Today is step 1. Thanks for the awakening.
My purpose for the year is to continuing taking the steps that God puts in front of me. God has awakened me and shown me how I can love Him by serving others and I am searching for ways to incorporate that into every aspect of my life!
My purpose this year is to take time to listen to God and to do His will.
I love this! My resolution every year has been to read through the whole bible. After several years, I have not quite made it. So, this year I really want to focus on listening to and getting closer to God. Thanks for all you do to encourage us and inspire us to walk with Him daily.
My purpose is the same everyday. Be better, mom, wife, friend, sister daughter whatever hat I am wearing just be better. Either love more, listen better, speak nicer and with a calmer head. I need to learn or make it a habit to do those things better I need to step back and listen to Him. It is easy to get caught up in the rhythem of the day that I forget to do that and then I feel I miss out on His plan and purpose for myself. My purpose is to be a light for those around me.
I feel like 2013 is my year! I really want to take this year to focus on the important things in life. Last year was such a whirlwind for me, with so much going on, that I didn’t actually get to enjoy anything. I left my job and went back to school, my fiance had let’s just say an exciting year at work with ups and downs, and all the other stresses of life.
I want to take 2013 to re-focus and re-ground myself. Focus on the inner me. This journal would be amazing as I want to start writing down my thoughts, feelings, and reflections. Find that balance again. I’ve always found such a simple pleasure in writing and reading and would love to find that again. I think sometimes I forget spiritual balance is just as important as health and fitness balance.
2013 is going to be a great year! I can tell!
My purpose for this year is focus on the things that matter and let the little things role off my back.
This year I want to be more present with my family and God.
After my husband unexpectedly losing his job last spring I went through a very angry period as we learned to live with much, much less. Surprisingly, I have learned so much on this journey and have changed into a different person. I am reading one of your favorite books, “Seven”, right now.
Now I need to look into this!
Thank you!
I love She Reads Truth and look forward to my quiet time every morning. How exciting that you are now a contributor! I was just thinking about my 2013 goals last night. I have resolved to read through the Bible, and PRAY, as I continue to learn about the power of prayer.
My purpose is to experience gratitude in my core. Just finished Seven and I am changed.
1. to fully realize and embrace my exquisite beauty-
god created an amazing creature in me
and a hurt heart has kept me from loving myself fully and trusting myself fully,
which translates into loving and trusting others less fully!
and what a waste of time because
god loves me
and god’s love is enough,
i don’t need to put my faith in others to not let me down-
god will always be my one true source of strength and inspiration and enthusiasm for life
regardless of the thoughts, words and actions of others, regardless of my circumstances
or heartbreaks…
2. to continue to say each day, all day,
“how shall i serve you today? and to respond…
to not miss opportunities placed before me to show great love and care,
whether it is stopping in my rush somewhere to listen to the story of a homeless man and share a laugh and a hug, or to make a meal for someone who is sick when i myself and exhausted, or write that card or make that call so that someone knows they are not alone, that they are thought of, that they are celebrated.
3. to walk toward, not away from, the people who challenge and frustrate me,
the truth is that they love me enough to come into my life
to teach me the lessons i am ready to learn about myself-
they push buttons to show me i have buttons,
i want to grow and stretch, and stretch and grow beyond my comfort level, to cry and scream and walk straight into life’s “fires,” bravely, to be refined and experience greater depth and meaning in being alive,
i don’t want to have any buttons left to push by the time i take my last breathe!
4. to say ‘thank you’ for every apology i have never, and may never, receive.
5. to laugh every laugh and to cry every tear, to hug strangers and talk to people in elevators, and leave things, experiences, people and places lighter and brighter because i was there!
i don’t need to win but i am so glad you posted this for others to find She Reads truth!!
My purpose for this year is to come to truly understand that I am enough and I’m working every day to enstill this idea that God made me just the way I am, He loves me this way, and in His eyes I’m perfect. There’s no reason for me to compare myself to other people.
My purpose for the coming year is to embrace change and whatever challenges that change may bring. I’ve left a job and am starting a new career path, which is scary, but I also have hope.
My purpose this year is to become closer to the Lord – I have realized in the last few months that I need to make some changes in my path – I haven’t lost the way, I know I can just do a better job, and I’m jumping into She Reads Truth with both feet….I want to learn that I am only responsible for me, and I want to TRULY BELIEVE that He loves me just the way I am.
I love the She Reads Truth plan–I love to not feel like an oasis, and always have “friends” that are reading the same passage as me and discussing it. Although I have remained kind of an anonymous reader, I’d love to open up more and share my thoughts as well–the journal would be a perfect motivation! My goal for this year is to be more mindful of my actions and be more grateful for all I have, and not be envious of others. Lofty, but achievable with daily commitments.
My purpose is to overcome my battle with anorexia and rid myself of all of the hatred and denial that came with it.
thank you for that vulnerability heather! how beautiful…i honor that you would share that part of your journey “online”…clearly you are on a path toward building strength and recognizing your exquisiteness! you are perfect, perfectly created, the world’s standards should never be our guide or inspiration, and the pains of others put on us when we were innocent are never about us, what happens to our psyches and spirits are simply collateral damage…walk toward the pain, uncovering, discovering everything that you were meant to be and to understand! hooray, congratulations, i am over here celebrating ALL of YOU! and i wish you the very very best! keep beautiful-spirit, life-giving people around you, listen for the voice of god in others and turn away from everything that would have you feeling anything other than that you are an integral, vital, powerful, necessary presence on this planet! much love! gail
My purpose this year is to be more grateful for what I have… To STOP wanting “more”- more time, more money, more energy, etc. I want to learn to love and appreciate what I do have instead of what I do not have. Hope you had an amazing vacation Mama Pea!
My purpose this year is becoming a first-time mom in may. I have committed to She Reads The Truth as a guide to help me become the woman, wife, mother and friend I seek to be.
My purpose this year is to take baby steps in achieving my goals, spiritually, physically, emotionally and financially. In the past, I’ve always been an “all or nothing” person. I’d start out the year with the intention of reading my Bible every day, exercising every day, eating better every day. As soon as I failed or fell behind in my goal, I’d give it up:( I know that God never viewed me as a failure, but that’s how I viewed myself. Now I am learning to take great joy in the little accomplishments (like the fact that it’s January 5th and I’ve read my Bible every day, or the fact that 5 days into the new year, I am under budget for the month). Beginning She Reads Truth and learning about all of the other wonderful women out there with the same struggles has been a wonderful and eye-opening experience so far. For the first time in a long time, I am looking forward to living each day as the gift it is from the Lord and taking joy out of the little successes every day. God bless you!
My purpose for this year is to devote myself to God and family. There are other things in my life that are important (work, friends, hobbies, etc.) but God and family should be the main focus of my energy – despite the lure of other distractions.
My purpose this year is to have a closer walk with God and keep my eyes focused on him and his plans for me. The end of 2012 brought a lot of struggles in my marriage and my life in general but I believe God let’s us go through these trials in order to humble our hearts. I started following along with She Reads Truth after you mentioned it here and it has been such a blessing. Thank you for your wonderful posts!
I am striving to take each day and find contentment in it. Each day is a gift, and I don’t want to miss a moment. I always want to communicate this to my kids so they can also be joyful each day and not worry.
My purpose this year, in the midst of a difficult and isolating PhD program, is to not give up and fully place my trust and eyes on Him and His promises. Additionally, I long for something so much and need to place that longing on His throne. I’m ready to get back into regular Bible study and love the community SRT offers!
Right now I am in the same place you were one year ago, standing on that mountain. Over the past few years, my relationship with Christ has weakened so much. I have felt so busy with my toddler, kindergartner, work, extra activities, etc. Plus my husband is in his third year of medical school so he is always busy with rotations and studying, which is stressful for both of us and it’s so hard to not have much time with him. I’ve felt so overwhelmed, that what should be #1 in my life, marriage, and family, has gradually moved to the back burner. I am so eager and excited to renew my relationship with God, and as a family truly put Him above all else and live every breath for Him. This post really touched me because I am at the exact place with the exact purpose you were one year ago. So happy to see how you and your family have grown, and I am very excited for myself and my family to do the same.
My purpose for the new year is for MORE. More time for HIM, more time for my family and more time for me. To find more time to do and experience all the things that make me a better person.
My purpose(s) for this year is to re-charge and renew: my body, my spirit, my mind, my relationships, my family. More yoga, less running. More family time, less TV/screen time. More veggies, less sugar!! But, most of all, more gratitude, less negativity/perfectionism. Here’s to a great 2013!!
My purpose for this year is to live with purpose, to “shake myself awake” everyday and live in a way that is pleasing to Him.
Having just relocated to a new state the last 6 months have been a blur – my goal for 2013 is to focus on all the blessings I have …..offering a prayer of graditude daily.
She Reads Truth has been instrumental in getting me back to reading the word daily and I cannot thank you enough for writing about it last fall.
I chose “intentional” as my theme word for this year: my goal is to be intentional in my walk with God, my finances, my relationships and my time management.
My purpose for this year to find that purpose, to find were I am to be in my walk with God. Where is He leading me.
My purpose for this year is to hopefully have more children. I would love to win this giveaway, I have not heard of this before.
My purpose for this year is simple. To glorify God through Every action/interaction I make.
I saw that you were writing for them and I’m very excited for you. I know the giveaway is over, but my purpose this year to is to make myself available to anyone who needs me, allowing God to use me how he will. I have no agenda, just whatever his plan is for the day.
That’s awesome, Amy. Thanks.
My purpose is to live out my ‘resolution’ for the year – contentment. With His timing, with His plan, understanding that I am NOT in charge!
This song reminds me of you, Sarah: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SYpsEONSVas
The picture of the mountaintop at the beginning of your post sealed it for me.
Life is hard…. but God is faithful.
That is beautiful Christina. Thank you!
My purpose is to simplify and through simplifying to be simply, happier.
My purpose this year is to try and define my faith. I did not grow up with much spiritual or religious influence. However, as I’ve gotten older and become a mother, I’ve decided I really would like to define my faith and I’ve set outto explore that this year.
My purpose this year to change my lifestyle for healthy, be happy, lose weight, enjoy healthy eating and healthy living:) Love your Blog take care:)
To keep my body healthy and love fully.
My purpose is to fulfill more of my potential, and be less fearful.