NOURISH
Tuesday, December 13, 2011 I am so FULL of anxiety during these busy weeks. I have been struggling. During these times, I am sometimes blessed with a peacefulness and clarity of thought that are such a reprieve. Today, I had one of those moments.
We had just taken the kids to the dentist {no cavities! good job brushing! yay!} and when we got home I kept having one word go through my mind: NOURISH. Before I forgot, as I wondered about this, I had several key points that popped into my head that are part of nourishing and nourishment. I wrote them all down on one of my chalkboards as a reminder.
1. God's Word
2. Meditation
3. Order
4. Nutrition
5. Exercise
6. Routine {different from order for me}
7. Relaxation
Shortly after writing it down, I started my Bible study. I am using a Beth Moore study called "Living Beyond Yourself", and it explores the fruits of the Spirit. This week is joy, and the verse of the day is this:
You have made known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand. Psalm 16:11
I wrote it on a notecard and have been trying to figure out a way to have it on me in a way that I can see it, e.g. tying it on as a necklace, upside down, so I can look it easily and so that it "gets in my way" as I go about my daily business. The bold part is my doing because that is the phrase that I am holding on to.
The first part of receiving nourishment, for me, is to hear God's Word and store it in my heart. More than any of the other steps for me. Because I will only experience God's joy when I am in HIS PRESENCE. And part of being in the presence of another is not just talking to them but LISTENING to them.
As I go forward each day, my top priority is to be in the presence of my ALMIGHTY, ALL-POWERFUL, EVER-PRESENT God. Only HE can provide me with what my soul craves and needs to be nourished.
Reader Comments (4)
One way that God nourishes me is through your friendship. Thank you for always being will to talk to me with an open heart, an open mind, and with always keeping God's love for us as the focus! I love you!
Jennifer
correction...being "willing"
Jennifer, the same goes from me to you! You are an incredible person of wisdom and faith. I treasure your friendship so much. Love YOU too.
I just finished my work this afternoon on a lesson in the Beth Moore study I'm doing on Esther, and I decided to check in on your blog after I listened to a Steven Curtis Chapman song she referenced. God's presence is truly the source of joy, and this is such a season to remember "God with us." I hope that the anxiety you feel can be filled with the peace of God's immediacy and adequacy, and that your joy will be full.
You are God's gift to all of us, Sarah. We give him thanks and you much love.
Mom