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.
A while ago someone asked me if I’m “adventurous”. On hearing the word I immediately pictured myself jumping off a cliff or out of an airplane. Adrenaline chasing has never been one of my hobbies, so I assumed I couldn’t really be described as an “adventurer.”
But does adventure only have to do with jumping off cliffs or is there more to it? Somehow the thought of not being adventurous made me seem so boring. Was I boring??
“What am I about to do?” she asked herself looking down at the alabaster jar in her shaking hands. The possibility of rejection was very real. She had a reputation for being a sinner and was definitely not welcome in the house of Pharisee.
She took a deep breath and walked into a room full of men, carrying her most precious possession – her future, her security. Trying to ignore the cruel stares directed her way; she searched the room for Jesus. He was all she was there for. It was all because of Him.
She couldn’t help herself; tears were already streaming down her face. This wasn’t really part of the plan; she was hoping to be a bit more composed. But standing face to face with Him somehow exposed the burden of the sin she was carrying. It’s like everything about her broke open in the same way she broke the jar of expensive perfume. She fell at His feet and in spite of her past and the harsh comments by some of the men in the room; she felt like she belonged. He wanted her there.
This is one of the few articles where I simply want to share a story from my life. I hope that it will inspire you as it has inspired me.
Sunday, 24th of February 2019 I ran my very first half marathon. This, my friends, is a testimony of God’s goodness. It’s not your typical running testimony where I miraculously got healed from some or other injury. It is about how faithful God is to manifest Himself in different seasons of our lives.
I’ve always been the arty girl who doesn’t do sports. I never thought God would teach me a lesson through RUNNING– but He did. |
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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, music and spring....
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