The content of this post is actually similar to a journal entry and not so similar to what I would typically write on here. But this won’t be the first time a journal entry becomes a blog post – so here we go.
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If you read If it’s not for the Kingdom – then what’s it for? (Part 1), you might be relieved to hear this is not another story about going for a walk or a run. (Apparently that’s something I write about a lot). Actually this post is about what I’ve learnt in the last few weeks, so unless it involves taking a walk around the house, it would be very unlikely.
This post is also not another one about singleness, although it most certainly applies to it. This post is about what it means to seek the Kingdom first (Matthew 6:25-34) – before our own dreams and desires, and even before our needs.
So here’s a fun fact about my walk with God:
He speaks to me in themes.
This Scripture first made its appearance last year in October. But what is really spectacular is how relevant it is amidst all the uncertainty we are currently facing. So that’s why I’m sharing it with you.
But before we get to that; let me share some of the story. The majority of this post was written a few months ago. I was working on a research paper for my honours degree at the time. The paper looked at Genesis 2:24 and how this reference to marriage also refers to Christ and the church based on Ephesians 5. This was a topic I chose and not something that was pre-assigned. Yet mid-working on it, I had one of those “why am I writing a research paper about God’s intention for marriage?” moments. Not the type where I felt unqualified due to my lack of practical experience, but rather the type where I started crying over Genesis 3:16 - confronted with my own longing for marriage. Then I wrote this post and Holy Spirit used it to minister to my heart.
For some reason it never got posted. I didn’t forget about it, but it just didn’t feel like the time was right.
During the last few weeks I intentionally made time to sit at Jesus’ feet to give Him my desires and plans for a future spouse in order to hear and walk according to His standard. I really hope this article will inspire you to do the same.
Like many others I started this year challenging myself to be more healthy, organised, productive and balanced. This year I want to put an effort into my appearance, relationships and spiritual growth. I want to make a priority of writing on this blog. I want to have an influence in the Kingdom and walk in my calling. Basically - I want to be a "better person". Is it just me?
In order to achieve this I’ve come up with a number of measurable goals: they include getting up earlier, going to bed earlier, daily exercise, less series, daily schedules, lots and lots of reminders on my phone and much more.
I’d actually like to challenge the notion that New Year’s resolutions can’t change us. There’s something fresh about a new year that makes us want to do better. It’s a little bit like grace – it’s a second chance. I believe that in the light of being a good representative of God (Genesis 1:26; 2 Corinthians 5:20) and a good steward of the time He’s given us (Psalm 90:12; Ephesians 5:15-16); making a few New Year’s resolutions to help you become a "better you” is not all that bad.
The real issue with these resolutions, is expecting change to happen between 31 December and 1 January.
Let’s not limit God in saying He can’t change people over night, but in my walk with Him I’ve noticed He’s usually a fan of PROCESS. |
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About the blogQueen in Gold is a blog for the feminine heart. I hope to inspire other women to stand up in their God-given identity.
AuthorMy name is Riani.
I love flowers, board games, arty markets, food, dancing, music and spring....
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