Sabbatical Rest

I'm back. A special thank you to all of my guest bloggers!! I hope you were blessed by their words; I certainly was. It was wonderful to see God at work through different eyes.

My time of sabbatical was full of rich blessings. It took quite awhile to set up the guest blogs (A note to those who would like to incorporate guest writings) but once I navigated the formatting issues it all got done. I enjoyed getting glimpses into the lives of these wonderful friends as they shared their hearts.

So, a bit about my time apart...

Fasting from Facebook was a huge goal during this time. Though I admit I did peek a little, other than announcing the blogs each week on social media, I tried very hard not to linger. This is something I want to continue. Time is so precious and once it's spent, there is no getting it back. So, one thing I learned is that,

               I want to be more intentional.

Stewardship of my day is important.

I also enjoyed my home. I cooked and baked - both of which I really enjoy. I took walks, spent time with my husband, went to visit my family, and even took a couple of days to getaway alone. All of these things filled my empty cup. If you have never planned a getaway, I highly recommend it.

A few nuggets gathered during my time alone: The words that repeated in my journal time were

chosen

intentional

Mark 3:16 says, "He appointed (chose) the twelve."

                      He chose me too

Interesting, that Ephesians 1:5 says that God 'chose us from the foundation....by the kind intention of His will.'

                      Being intentional involves making choices

As my hubby and I rode bikes to Watch Hill, RI and saw all the 'McMansions'...

           He is preparing a place for me - a mansion in glory

As I sat by the ocean early one morning with a cup of tea, a tractor was grading the sand - wiping away yesterday's flaws.

                  

His mercy is new every morning 

 

 

In the gentle peace of this place

You are here

I'm listening to the surroundings

Will you touch my soul with the burning coal of your presence

Light the fire of your love alive in me

Quicken my heart to beat with yours

 

Have you taken time to be alone with God lately? What have you heard through your surroundings?

 

A getaway may be just the thing to help encourage intentional living.

 

 

Jeanne

 

Photos by Jeanne Doyon 2013



Suggestions for intentional living and drawing near to God:

Preparing Your Getaway

“Come away to a quiet place…” Mark 6:33

As I write this, I am anticipating my time away with the Lord this weekend. My mind is already going there which is a dangerous thing because I need to “be” at work this week. There are so many things on my heart. I have a huge writing project I am working on. I have a decision to make about a ministry step—is it His time yet? I have “packed” so many things in my heart to take along.

So, I have continued this topic in case you are considering your own getaway. It doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are some thoughts as you plan:

Choosing a place


Take into consideration your budget when you choose a location; not too far, but just far enough away. Some options include a day trip to a park, waterfront, or other quiet place nearby; a hotel, B&B or other overnight destination; a retreat or conference center which may offer inexpensive accommodation especially during an ongoing event.

Things to contemplate

Is there a prayer item that you have been struggling with?

Are you led to a Scripture and want to meditate on its application in your life?

Are you faced with a decision or need direction?

Is there an area where you need to let go?

Are you getting a glimpse into a ministry you need to pray through?

Are you facing concerns and you need His peace?

Are you restless, sensing a need for change?

Things to bring

A Bible, journal, pen, a teachable and expectant heart (camera or sketch pad optional)

Things to avoid

Cell phones, internet access, email, or any other distractions

As you plan a time alone with Him, I pray you will feel the stir in your heart with the knowledge that He is wooing you there. He has something to whisper in the depth of your soul and is preparing your heart to receive it.

I can hardly wait,

Jeanne