TEST YOUR IDEAS
The prompt for Day 7 of #5MFW #write31days is the word test. There are many tests we have throughout our lives. In each we learn things and often come through them stronger. They are not always easy, but God is with me every step of the way. I must test my ideas. Though I plan and try, I always find that I need His help.
In a way, this 31 Days to a Healthier Lifestyle is a test for me. Starting out I did not have a set plan, just some ideas to put into practice. There were areas in my life that needed attention. I was neglecting exercise, regular meals and even my devotional time. By making a commitment to write these 31 days, I thought it would help keep me accountable.
Sometimes life seems like a whirlwind of activity, and it’s hard to make an effort to form new habits. Part of the test for me is to see if I can actually make beneficial changes during these 31 days. As I mentioned in the introductory post, exercise is near the top of the list. By losing fat and gaining muscle I believe I will feel better and have more energy to pursue daily activities.
FIRST WEEK INVENTORY – TEST YOUR IDEAS
Taking an inventory of my first week, I think I’m well on the way to passing the first test of setting some regular habits. Some days I have an exercise routine; other days I take a brisk walk. Though I have not exercised every single day, I have done it at least five days out of the first week. It has already made me feel somewhat stronger and confident. On top of that I’ve lost a couple of pounds.
As far as food and nutrition, I still need to work on planning menus. This helps me know ahead of time what groceries are needed. By having the meals set, I also know how much time to allow for the preparing of them. This saves me from having last minute panic about what to fix for dinner and just settling for whatever is handy. Tonight I am making homemade pizza. Maybe I’ll share the recipe on Tuesday.
PRAYER AND SCRIPTURE READING
One of the most important habits I’m trying to reestablish is my morning time of prayer and scripture reading. I enjoyed my second day of this new/old habit. I took my coffee upstairs and read a couple of chapters from the book of Joshua. It’s for an online Bible study using a journal to record verses and observations from the daily chapter.
Next I took out my prayer journal and read the verse at the top of the page.
Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.
(Matthew 5:8 KJV)
I then prayed,
Oh God, make my heart pure.
Draw me close to you and
help me to desire your will.
Help me to love you more.
After that I thanked God for answered prayer. Then I prayed for the friends and family that were on my mind. The verse at the bottom of the journal page was a blessing to me as I read it.
What a glorious Lord!
He who daily bears our burdens
also gives us our salvation.
(Psalm 68:19-20 NLT)
I’m linking up with: #FiveMinuteFriday, #FreshMarketFriday, #ThoughtProvokingThursday.
***All my #write31days posts can be found by clicking on the the left button below or on the Write 31 Days 2016 tab at the top of my blog.***
Five Minute Friday book is still available.
It’s filled with words of encouragement. I am one of many contributors to this wonderful book.
****PURCHASE THE BOOK AT AMAZON OR CREATESPACE.****
All proceeds go to two ministries in South Africa: The Vine School and the Ten Dollar Tribe. When you purchase a copy, you’ll not only enjoy some good articles, but you will be helping two wonderful ministries.
Congratulations on your progress toward your goal of establishing a healthier life style. Seems that this journey has the promise of rich benefits on multiple levels. :-)Grace to you in abundance. Visiting from FMF.
Thank you so much! I appreciate your encouragement. Grace and peace to you and many blessings!
One of the biggest tests many of us face.
Thanks for your support, dear Tara! Blessings to you!
Everyone could benefit from these healthy habits!
Amber, thank you for visiting and for your encouragement! Blessings to you!
Congratulations on getting through your first week, and meeting so many of your goals! And God was so good to have those encouraging verses waiting for you in your journal. “He who daily bears our burdens” what a comforting thought to start the day with! May the Lord help you as you enter in your second week, and give you a good weekend of rest and refreshing too! –Blessings!
Thank you, Bettie! Yes, that was a very comforting start to my day to read that scripture.
I appreciate your kind words of encouragement. Blessings to you and I hope you have a peaceful, refreshing weekend!
Congratulations on your progress Gayl! I personally love anything that helps me take inventory of my lifestyle.
Thank you, Crystal! It is a good idea to take inventory periodically in order to keep things in balance. I would like to remember to do it more often. 🙂
Thanks for visiting today. Many blessings to you, Crystal!