2011..

Another year. New resolutions. I'll tell you a few of mine:

1. To read my Bible from cover-to-cover. I'm 23 years old and sadly have never read my "instruction manual" all the way through. Alongside my husband, we agreed to do this together. We downloaded the Bible app. on our phones (if you have a smartphone you can try it too) by YouVersion. It's great because it allows you to read from any version and set up a personal Bible reading plan. We chose the 90 day plan which requires reading about 12 chapters (or 16 pages) a day. Now, we are in Deuteronomy and the Israelistes have almost made it to the land of milk and honey. I have so much to say about what I've learned on this "reading" journey, but will save it for another blog. As I read, God is revealing so many things to me (almost overwhelming). So, I decided to write in a journal to document everything. I even record prayer requests, personal letters to God, notes from church sermons, scripture, etc. in my journal. I encourage you to begin a Bible reading journey too. Let me know if you do! It's great to have someone to help keep you accountable. :)

2. To memorize scripture. It's true that "the WORD OF GOD is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged SWORD (Heb. 4:12)" and in order to "stand against the wiles of the devil" we are instructed to "put on the whole armour of God." That armour is the "...shield of faith, helmet of salvation, and the SWORD of the Spirit, which is the WORD OF GOD. (Eph. 6)" That's why I want to memorize the word of God. To stand against the "principalities, powers, etc. of this world," quote in my personal prayer life, teach my children, and tell others! I was so excited to find out about Beth Moore's scripture challenge to her "Siestas." Thanks Natalie! The challenge is to memorize 2 scriptures a month. You can find out more about it here. If you have an iPhone, you can get the Siestas app. too! Maybe they'll create one for Android software too, so I can use it! To help memorize my verses, I type them and place in random places all over my house. I have "scripture strips" on my desk, refrigerator, dresser, and even in the bathroom! I challenge you to memorize God's word too (it will make you free). Let me know if you do.

Here are my first two scriptures (typed from memory):

January 1: "Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus." - Phillipians 4:13-14 (KJV)

This scripture speaks to me. It's my declaration: that this year, I'm "Moving Forward." I'm not going back, but moving ahead. And pursuing HIM with all that I am and in all that I do.

January 15: "Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; And ye shall know the truth and the truth shall make you free." -John 8: 31-32 (KJV)

Need freedom? Spiritually, physically, emotionally, financially? Here's how: CONTINUE IN HIS WORD. Read daily, memorize scripture. Quote it. Believe it. Stand on it. Declare it. By continuing in His word, you'll know the truth (He is the way, the truth, and the life). And that knowledge is what makes you FREE! A special thanks to my Pastor for revealing this truth to me.

3. To coupon. This is completely new to me. But after watching Extreme Couponing on TLC and seeing what great deals a few of my friends are getting (not the mention the money they are saving too), I've decided to try it for myself. I created a couponing binder following The Krazy Coupon Lady's Instructions. Now, I'm trying to learn as much as I can while collecting coupons before I try to shop and save like these "CRAZY" people do! :) I'll be sure to update you on my success (which I hope to have).

4. For Hallie to give mommy and daddy our bed back! With my stomach growing (daily) there just isn't room for 4 of us in a queen size bed. And to be honest, I miss spending quality time with my husband. With Hallie between us, we can't snuggle anymore! So... this has been TOUGH. On all of us. There were a lot of tears (and even fits--from Hallie) the first week. It broke my heart. And I gave in many times. But I knew that it had to be done. The second week was not a success. She was sick, and how could I put her in another room by herself? So, last week we tried again. And I'll have you know that she is doing WONDERFUL! All because of prayer. When the night came for us to try again, I was upset and in tears before we even made it to her bedroom. I knew that there were at least 45 minutes of crying ahead before she decided that she was just too tired to cry anymore and give in. Standing in front of her bed, holding her in my arms, I prayed. I asked for Jesus to wrap His arms of love around her and hold her throughout the night. And for Him to give her the sweetest peace and to dream "dreams." I kissed her and tucked her in. She did not cry once. I walked out and remember saying to Aus, "that is God, an answer to prayers." It's been a week now, and she does great. Before naptime and bedtime, I hold her and we pray. She's started wrapping her arms around my neck. I love it. Thank you Lord for hearing my prayers.

Those are a few of my resolutions. Hope you've set a few of your own and are working daily to accomplish them. :) Remember: Jesus loves you and believes in you, and I do too! :)