Dare:
Write out a renewal of my vows, and place them in my home.
Wow, this is the last day. Let's see, a renewal of my vows. I want this to be serious and thoughtful - so, another thing to pray about before I write. I have a long car trip, plenty of prayer time.
Results:
Oh shoot - such a busy day. I didn't have a chance to write anything. Count this as a temporary failure.
Thursday, October 21, 2010
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
Day 39 - Love Dare - Love Endures
Dare:
Spend time in personal prayer, then write a letter of commitment and resolve to David. Inclue why I am committing to this marriage until death, and that I have purposed to love him no matter what. Leave it in a place for David to find it.
Ooh, I like writing. This sounds easy, but I want it to be sincere so I need to be praying for the right words.
Results:
Aren't the easy ones always the toughest. I was sick and didn't feel like doing anything. I got home from my all day training and was feeling sick so I went to bed. Didn't write. I can't promise I will today either, but I need to. I need to give up something and just do it. Maybe I can write during my lunch break today.
Spend time in personal prayer, then write a letter of commitment and resolve to David. Inclue why I am committing to this marriage until death, and that I have purposed to love him no matter what. Leave it in a place for David to find it.
Ooh, I like writing. This sounds easy, but I want it to be sincere so I need to be praying for the right words.
Results:
Aren't the easy ones always the toughest. I was sick and didn't feel like doing anything. I got home from my all day training and was feeling sick so I went to bed. Didn't write. I can't promise I will today either, but I need to. I need to give up something and just do it. Maybe I can write during my lunch break today.
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
Day 38 - Love Dare - Love Fulfills Dreams
Dare:
Ask myself what David would want if it was obtainable. Commit this to prayer and start mapping out a plan for meeting some (if not all) of his desires to whatever level I possibly can.
Just the other day David was talking about a trip he wanted to take in the Spring. I put him on a different path because I didn't want to go there. I was thinking it would be my vacation too, why should I go somewhere I didn't necessarily want to go when we had talked about so many other places before. I need to back up because it's obviously something he wants to do. So, okay, Ill start working towards that trip. In the meantime, there are lots of little things I can do. He likes it when I just sit with him or go with him for drives. That's easy stuff, but I usually grumble. No more grumbling. It's something David likes to do and I love him. I can give up time for him.
Results:
I have to confess - I was ready to throw everything I've learned the past 38 days out the door when I got home last night. I had laryngitis and was not feeling great anyway and found the dishes in the sink, kids toys everywhere, and everyone just sitting around. I walked in the bedroom to take off my shoes and David said there are a couple of cans of soup on the counter in the kitchen (meaning, heat up the soup and serve it). Normally I would have thought about getting the cans of soup and throwing them at David, but in reality I still would have heated them up and, grouchily, served David soup (not on his head as I would have liked). Instead, I went to the kitchen and did the dishes (I hate cooking anything when there are dirty dishes). Next I was planning to heat up the soup, but then David came in the kitchen and heated up some meat pies for us instead. So, even though I didn't have the best thoughts in my head last night, they weren't as bad as they used to be. I didn't make any snide comments and I didn't spend the night fuming quietly. The dishes were done and I had a nice warm meal.
Ask myself what David would want if it was obtainable. Commit this to prayer and start mapping out a plan for meeting some (if not all) of his desires to whatever level I possibly can.
Just the other day David was talking about a trip he wanted to take in the Spring. I put him on a different path because I didn't want to go there. I was thinking it would be my vacation too, why should I go somewhere I didn't necessarily want to go when we had talked about so many other places before. I need to back up because it's obviously something he wants to do. So, okay, Ill start working towards that trip. In the meantime, there are lots of little things I can do. He likes it when I just sit with him or go with him for drives. That's easy stuff, but I usually grumble. No more grumbling. It's something David likes to do and I love him. I can give up time for him.
Results:
I have to confess - I was ready to throw everything I've learned the past 38 days out the door when I got home last night. I had laryngitis and was not feeling great anyway and found the dishes in the sink, kids toys everywhere, and everyone just sitting around. I walked in the bedroom to take off my shoes and David said there are a couple of cans of soup on the counter in the kitchen (meaning, heat up the soup and serve it). Normally I would have thought about getting the cans of soup and throwing them at David, but in reality I still would have heated them up and, grouchily, served David soup (not on his head as I would have liked). Instead, I went to the kitchen and did the dishes (I hate cooking anything when there are dirty dishes). Next I was planning to heat up the soup, but then David came in the kitchen and heated up some meat pies for us instead. So, even though I didn't have the best thoughts in my head last night, they weren't as bad as they used to be. I didn't make any snide comments and I didn't spend the night fuming quietly. The dishes were done and I had a nice warm meal.
Monday, October 18, 2010
Day 37 - Love Dare - Love Agrees in Prayer
Dare:
Ask David if we can begin praying together. Talk about the best time to do this. Use this time to commit your concerns, disagreements, and needs before the Lord. Don't forget to thank Him for His provision and blessing.
Hey, this one's already set. We are going to use the time we read the Bible as a prayer time also.
Results:
Nothing to add. We had decided to start after I got back from my business trip, but now I'm not going overnight - just too really long day trips. But, now I have laryngitis - can't get a word out of my throat. Have to wait for tht to clear up.
Ask David if we can begin praying together. Talk about the best time to do this. Use this time to commit your concerns, disagreements, and needs before the Lord. Don't forget to thank Him for His provision and blessing.
Hey, this one's already set. We are going to use the time we read the Bible as a prayer time also.
Results:
Nothing to add. We had decided to start after I got back from my business trip, but now I'm not going overnight - just too really long day trips. But, now I have laryngitis - can't get a word out of my throat. Have to wait for tht to clear up.
Sunday, October 17, 2010
Day 26 - Love Dare - Love is God's Word
Dare:
Commit to reading the Bible every day. Find a devotional book or other resource that will give me some guidance. If David is open to it, see if he will commit to daily Bible reading with me. Begin submitting each area of my life to its guidance and start building on the rock.
I would love to spend some time reading the Bible with David every day. I'll ask him is he would like to do it. It would have to be at night because we get up so early. If not, I will have to pick it up and do it myself. I was reading the Bible through in a year and then hit July and stopped. I don't know why. Halfway through - why couldn't I keep it up?
Results:
I talked to David about reading the Bible together and he's all for it. We agreed we'd have to set aside time in the evening since we both have such an early start in the morning already. It will have to wait for a couple of days though because I have to leave on a business trip. But, as soon as I'm back - we're starting. By the way, I also threw in praying together during that time.
Commit to reading the Bible every day. Find a devotional book or other resource that will give me some guidance. If David is open to it, see if he will commit to daily Bible reading with me. Begin submitting each area of my life to its guidance and start building on the rock.
I would love to spend some time reading the Bible with David every day. I'll ask him is he would like to do it. It would have to be at night because we get up so early. If not, I will have to pick it up and do it myself. I was reading the Bible through in a year and then hit July and stopped. I don't know why. Halfway through - why couldn't I keep it up?
Results:
I talked to David about reading the Bible together and he's all for it. We agreed we'd have to set aside time in the evening since we both have such an early start in the morning already. It will have to wait for a couple of days though because I have to leave on a business trip. But, as soon as I'm back - we're starting. By the way, I also threw in praying together during that time.
Saturday, October 16, 2010
Day 35 - Love Dare - Love is Accountable
Dare:
Find a marriage mentor - someone who is a strong Christian and who will be honest and loving with me. If I feel that counseling is needed, then take the first step to set up an appontment. During this process, ask God to direct my decisions and discernment.
Well, this is honestly tough for me. I have no problem telling others what I do that's wrong, but I hate to say anything to anyone else about David. Early in our marriage David used to tell his mom about me and it really tainted our relationship and created some big problems I don't ever want to be the cause of any relationship problems for David. So, it's tough. I've spent my life keeping it in. Not that there is much to complain about as far as David is concerned. But is this about that? No, I guess it's not. Accountability would be about what I'm doing, not David.
So, now the issue for me is, I've always had a hard time talking to people about my problems. I honestly don't think they want to hear it. I've also always had lots of friends who tend to be talkers and dominate the conversations (not the best friends I've ever had). I do have a couple of friends that honestly listen to me without interrupting me to tell me about their situation. Their marriages aren't necessarily stronger than mine but I think I would have a hard time finding someone whose marriage is stronger that I could talk to. Okay, I'll pray about this for the right person.
Result:
No results yet - gotta get more serious about my praying. There are so many distractions that pull my time away. Prayer has got to be more of a priority. I will be seeing a lot of godly people today - I pray God points out the right person to me.
Find a marriage mentor - someone who is a strong Christian and who will be honest and loving with me. If I feel that counseling is needed, then take the first step to set up an appontment. During this process, ask God to direct my decisions and discernment.
Well, this is honestly tough for me. I have no problem telling others what I do that's wrong, but I hate to say anything to anyone else about David. Early in our marriage David used to tell his mom about me and it really tainted our relationship and created some big problems I don't ever want to be the cause of any relationship problems for David. So, it's tough. I've spent my life keeping it in. Not that there is much to complain about as far as David is concerned. But is this about that? No, I guess it's not. Accountability would be about what I'm doing, not David.
So, now the issue for me is, I've always had a hard time talking to people about my problems. I honestly don't think they want to hear it. I've also always had lots of friends who tend to be talkers and dominate the conversations (not the best friends I've ever had). I do have a couple of friends that honestly listen to me without interrupting me to tell me about their situation. Their marriages aren't necessarily stronger than mine but I think I would have a hard time finding someone whose marriage is stronger that I could talk to. Okay, I'll pray about this for the right person.
Result:
No results yet - gotta get more serious about my praying. There are so many distractions that pull my time away. Prayer has got to be more of a priority. I will be seeing a lot of godly people today - I pray God points out the right person to me.
Friday, October 15, 2010
Day 34 - Love Dare - Love Celebrates Godliness
Dare:
Find a specific, recent example when David demonstrated Christian character in a noticeable way. Verbally commend him for this at some point today.
Oh darn. I did this yesterday. I could have saved it for today and been done with this dare. In truth, there is so much to commend David about. He truly tries to live a life that is honoring to Christ. He has such a strong gift of mercy. For example, the thing I commended him for yesterday involved his role as AWANA Commander, a Christian children's club that focuses on Bible memorization done through our church. The club has a "store" every once in a while where the kids can spend their AWANA bucks that they earn for memorizing verses, outstanding behavior, bringing their Bible and things like that.
Anyway, there are some kids that are just poor. Their parents would never be able buy much since they are probably concentrating on things like paying their rent and buying food. Sometimes these kids may not have earned enough bucks to buy something they really want so David will let them buy it for whatever they have. He had one boy that had 20 AWANA bucks and wanted something that was 75 bucks. David let him have it to the consternation of some of his AWANA store helpers, who have the gift of administration and prophecy. They thought David should be helping the kids learn the value of money while David wants to teach them grace. It all goes back to when he was a poor kid. He remembers people that reached out to him and gave him things he didn't deserve. That made such an impact on his life. He wants kids to experience the same thing.
See, isn't he wonderful? I have the gift of administration but I have learned to understand David's motivation and truly support how he handles these situations and think it is what Jesus would do in the same situation. When David told me about this, I told him how much I admired him and what he did. He said he wonders what people think when they see him. I think they see someone that loves God and lives a life that honors God.
So, it will be so easy to find something to praise in him today.
Result:
As I said, David is so easy to praise. I'm starting to try to put this all together. I have six more days. On the 7th day I want to tie this together - what changes have occurred, that kind of stuff. So, I'm doing some deep thinking here - don't disturb me.
Find a specific, recent example when David demonstrated Christian character in a noticeable way. Verbally commend him for this at some point today.
Oh darn. I did this yesterday. I could have saved it for today and been done with this dare. In truth, there is so much to commend David about. He truly tries to live a life that is honoring to Christ. He has such a strong gift of mercy. For example, the thing I commended him for yesterday involved his role as AWANA Commander, a Christian children's club that focuses on Bible memorization done through our church. The club has a "store" every once in a while where the kids can spend their AWANA bucks that they earn for memorizing verses, outstanding behavior, bringing their Bible and things like that.
Anyway, there are some kids that are just poor. Their parents would never be able buy much since they are probably concentrating on things like paying their rent and buying food. Sometimes these kids may not have earned enough bucks to buy something they really want so David will let them buy it for whatever they have. He had one boy that had 20 AWANA bucks and wanted something that was 75 bucks. David let him have it to the consternation of some of his AWANA store helpers, who have the gift of administration and prophecy. They thought David should be helping the kids learn the value of money while David wants to teach them grace. It all goes back to when he was a poor kid. He remembers people that reached out to him and gave him things he didn't deserve. That made such an impact on his life. He wants kids to experience the same thing.
See, isn't he wonderful? I have the gift of administration but I have learned to understand David's motivation and truly support how he handles these situations and think it is what Jesus would do in the same situation. When David told me about this, I told him how much I admired him and what he did. He said he wonders what people think when they see him. I think they see someone that loves God and lives a life that honors God.
So, it will be so easy to find something to praise in him today.
Result:
As I said, David is so easy to praise. I'm starting to try to put this all together. I have six more days. On the 7th day I want to tie this together - what changes have occurred, that kind of stuff. So, I'm doing some deep thinking here - don't disturb me.
Thursday, October 14, 2010
Day 33 - Love Dare - Love Completes Each Other
Dare:
Recognize that David is integral to our future success. Let him know today that I want to include him in my upcoming decisions, and that I need his perspective and counsel. If I've ignored his input in the past, admit my oversight and ask him to forgive me.
Okay, so most of the time I include David on decision making, but not always. I try to let him know what's going on, but do I seek his insight? Not always. Today is a good chance because I need to think about things to do while my mom is visiting. I'll ask him what he thinks. Start there.
Result:
I asked David to pick me up at work and we drove for a while and then stopped for dinner. It was nice to just spend time with him and talk. I don't know if we were making any decisions, but just talking. And don't decisions come out of knowing your partner better and what he thinks about issues? It was a good night.
Recognize that David is integral to our future success. Let him know today that I want to include him in my upcoming decisions, and that I need his perspective and counsel. If I've ignored his input in the past, admit my oversight and ask him to forgive me.
Okay, so most of the time I include David on decision making, but not always. I try to let him know what's going on, but do I seek his insight? Not always. Today is a good chance because I need to think about things to do while my mom is visiting. I'll ask him what he thinks. Start there.
Result:
I asked David to pick me up at work and we drove for a while and then stopped for dinner. It was nice to just spend time with him and talk. I don't know if we were making any decisions, but just talking. And don't decisions come out of knowing your partner better and what he thinks about issues? It was a good night.
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Day 32 - Love Dare - Love Meets Sexual Needs
Dare:
If at all possible, try to initiate sex with David today. Do this in a way that honors what David has told me abouth what he needs from me sexually. Ask God to make this enjoyable for both of us as well as a path to greater intimacy.
Well, this is not a subject I want to blog about - and I know my kids definitely don't want to hear about. I knew some dare like this would be thrown in here. I can see why it was put in so late in the list. This one will be kind of tough so, of course, another item of prayer.
Results:
All I have to say is, it's none of your business.
If at all possible, try to initiate sex with David today. Do this in a way that honors what David has told me abouth what he needs from me sexually. Ask God to make this enjoyable for both of us as well as a path to greater intimacy.
Well, this is not a subject I want to blog about - and I know my kids definitely don't want to hear about. I knew some dare like this would be thrown in here. I can see why it was put in so late in the list. This one will be kind of tough so, of course, another item of prayer.
Results:
All I have to say is, it's none of your business.
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
Day 31 - Love Dare - Love and Marriage
Dare:
Is there a "leaving" issue I haven't been brave enough to conquer yet? Confess it to David today and resolve to make it right.
I wish I had a "leaving" issue. I haven't lived near my parents since we got married. I'm lucky if I get to see them once a year. I'm terrible about phone calls and letters, not that I don't think of them often. So, I wonder if the "leaving" issue for me went way too far the other way because there are times I resent always having to live near David's family at the sacrifice of contact with mine (who, by the way, we rarely see now - David's family). Hmmm, not that's an issue for me to work on.
Results:
I'm ashamed to say I didn't pray much about this today. Thought I was too busy, but when I think about my day, I had plenty of opportunity. I really need to get serious about the prayer thing. How can I hope to accomplish much without prayer? Hey, I have an idea. Anyone that reads this, you pray for me that I will pray. That would be a whole lot of prayer.
Is there a "leaving" issue I haven't been brave enough to conquer yet? Confess it to David today and resolve to make it right.
I wish I had a "leaving" issue. I haven't lived near my parents since we got married. I'm lucky if I get to see them once a year. I'm terrible about phone calls and letters, not that I don't think of them often. So, I wonder if the "leaving" issue for me went way too far the other way because there are times I resent always having to live near David's family at the sacrifice of contact with mine (who, by the way, we rarely see now - David's family). Hmmm, not that's an issue for me to work on.
Results:
I'm ashamed to say I didn't pray much about this today. Thought I was too busy, but when I think about my day, I had plenty of opportunity. I really need to get serious about the prayer thing. How can I hope to accomplish much without prayer? Hey, I have an idea. Anyone that reads this, you pray for me that I will pray. That would be a whole lot of prayer.
Monday, October 11, 2010
Day 30 - Love Dare - Love Brings Unity
Dare:
Isolate one area of division in my marriage, and look on today as a fresh opportunity to pray about it. Ask the Lord to reveal anything in my own heart that is threatening oneness with David. Pray the He would do the same for David. And if appropriate, discuss this matter openly, seeking God for unity.
Okay, the instructions are to pray and I will need to because I'm not aware of anything that is dividing our marriage. If there is anything, please God, show me and show David. I will be observant for your answer.
Result:
Still praying - God hasn't revealed anything to me yet, or I'm just too pigheaded to see it.
Isolate one area of division in my marriage, and look on today as a fresh opportunity to pray about it. Ask the Lord to reveal anything in my own heart that is threatening oneness with David. Pray the He would do the same for David. And if appropriate, discuss this matter openly, seeking God for unity.
Okay, the instructions are to pray and I will need to because I'm not aware of anything that is dividing our marriage. If there is anything, please God, show me and show David. I will be observant for your answer.
Result:
Still praying - God hasn't revealed anything to me yet, or I'm just too pigheaded to see it.
Sunday, October 10, 2010
Day 29 - Love Dare - Love's Motivation
Dare:
Before I see David again today, pray for him by name and his needs. Say "I love you," then express love to him in some tangile way. Go to God in prayer again, thanking Him for giving me the privilege of loving this one special person - unconditionally, the way He loves both of us.
I'm up before David, so I can pray for him and I can go in and say "I love you." Piece of cake. Now I have to think of some tangible way to show him I love him. Hmmmm, that's going to take some thinking. Get back to you on that one.
Result:
I did pray and went in and told David I loved him. He asked me why I was telling him. Hmmm, why did he ask that? I told him just because I love him. We used to do that all the time - just say "I love you" occasionally. Guess that just shows how much we've taken each other for granted. Anyway, he went to take and shower and I got his clothes out for him, something I never do. It felt good. I need to keep looking for little opportunities to do things for him. It also seems that David isn't as irritable as normal. He even said his back hurt a lot yesterday, something that always puts him in a bad mood. Yet, he wasn't. Because God is working on me, and I'm actually listening, He is helping me make things better for David. Wow, God is awesome.
Before I see David again today, pray for him by name and his needs. Say "I love you," then express love to him in some tangile way. Go to God in prayer again, thanking Him for giving me the privilege of loving this one special person - unconditionally, the way He loves both of us.
I'm up before David, so I can pray for him and I can go in and say "I love you." Piece of cake. Now I have to think of some tangible way to show him I love him. Hmmmm, that's going to take some thinking. Get back to you on that one.
Result:
I did pray and went in and told David I loved him. He asked me why I was telling him. Hmmm, why did he ask that? I told him just because I love him. We used to do that all the time - just say "I love you" occasionally. Guess that just shows how much we've taken each other for granted. Anyway, he went to take and shower and I got his clothes out for him, something I never do. It felt good. I need to keep looking for little opportunities to do things for him. It also seems that David isn't as irritable as normal. He even said his back hurt a lot yesterday, something that always puts him in a bad mood. Yet, he wasn't. Because God is working on me, and I'm actually listening, He is helping me make things better for David. Wow, God is awesome.
Saturday, October 9, 2010
Day 28 - Love Dare - Love Makes Sacrifices
Dare:
What is one of the greatest needs in David life right now? Is there a need I could lift from his shoulders today by a daring acto of sacrifice on my part? Whether the need is big or small, purpose to do what I can to meet the need.
David seems to have starting a new Sunday School class on his mind. So, what can I do to help? I know he's concerned about curriculum. Maybe I could look that up for him.
Result:
Yes, I googled and found all sorts of information to David and went and presented it to him. I don't know if he even appreciated it, but I did it. I spent time I would have normally spent looking for stuff for me (or playing games) and did this for him. It was such a tiny sacrifice. It doesn't seem big enough. Did I hit the intention of the dare? I'm not sure I did. I'll keep working on this one too.
What is one of the greatest needs in David life right now? Is there a need I could lift from his shoulders today by a daring acto of sacrifice on my part? Whether the need is big or small, purpose to do what I can to meet the need.
David seems to have starting a new Sunday School class on his mind. So, what can I do to help? I know he's concerned about curriculum. Maybe I could look that up for him.
Result:
Yes, I googled and found all sorts of information to David and went and presented it to him. I don't know if he even appreciated it, but I did it. I spent time I would have normally spent looking for stuff for me (or playing games) and did this for him. It was such a tiny sacrifice. It doesn't seem big enough. Did I hit the intention of the dare? I'm not sure I did. I'll keep working on this one too.
Friday, October 8, 2010
Day 27 - Love Dare - Love Encourages
Dare:
Eliminate the poison of unrealistic expectations in my home. Think of one area where David told me I'm expecting too much and tell him I'm sorry for being so hard on him about it. Promise him that I'll seek to understand, and assure him of my unconditional love.
Here's another area where I don't think I'm so bad, but then again, maybe I am. I have a habit of thinking through conversations we are going to have and writing the scripts in my head. Then when it doesn't go the way I expected, I pout and shut down. So I guess I'm expecting him to do things my way and it's obvious when it doesn't. Guess that's where I'll start.
Results:
Okay, nothing came up for this yesterday, but it will. I know it will because I do have these internal plots going on and there will be one that doesn't go my way. So, I will try to keep my mind and my eye open for when this comes up.
Eliminate the poison of unrealistic expectations in my home. Think of one area where David told me I'm expecting too much and tell him I'm sorry for being so hard on him about it. Promise him that I'll seek to understand, and assure him of my unconditional love.
Here's another area where I don't think I'm so bad, but then again, maybe I am. I have a habit of thinking through conversations we are going to have and writing the scripts in my head. Then when it doesn't go the way I expected, I pout and shut down. So I guess I'm expecting him to do things my way and it's obvious when it doesn't. Guess that's where I'll start.
Results:
Okay, nothing came up for this yesterday, but it will. I know it will because I do have these internal plots going on and there will be one that doesn't go my way. So, I will try to keep my mind and my eye open for when this comes up.
Thursday, October 7, 2010
Day 26 - Love Dare - Love is Responsible
Dare:
Take time to pray through my areas of wrongdoing. Ask for God's forgiveness, then humble myself enough to admit them to David. Do it sincerely and truthfully. Ask David for forgiveness as well. No matter how he responds, make sure I cover my responsibility in love. Evein if they respond with criticism, accept it be receiving it as counsel.
Man, I knew it! As soon as I read about needing to forgive David, I knew it would be turned around to talk about things I need to be forgiven for. There are no BIG things but millions on millions of little things. My biggest problem is in my attitude. Asking God for forgiveness isn't tough, he already knows my faults, but asking David. Whoa, that's going to be tougher.
Results:
I honestly can't think of anything major, but is needing forgiveness kind of like sin? Is the little thing you need forgiveness the same as the big thing you need to be forgiven for? After all, sin is sin. Something you need to be forgiven for is sin, and it's all filth to God so let me rethink this for tomorrow.
Take time to pray through my areas of wrongdoing. Ask for God's forgiveness, then humble myself enough to admit them to David. Do it sincerely and truthfully. Ask David for forgiveness as well. No matter how he responds, make sure I cover my responsibility in love. Evein if they respond with criticism, accept it be receiving it as counsel.
Man, I knew it! As soon as I read about needing to forgive David, I knew it would be turned around to talk about things I need to be forgiven for. There are no BIG things but millions on millions of little things. My biggest problem is in my attitude. Asking God for forgiveness isn't tough, he already knows my faults, but asking David. Whoa, that's going to be tougher.
Results:
I honestly can't think of anything major, but is needing forgiveness kind of like sin? Is the little thing you need forgiveness the same as the big thing you need to be forgiven for? After all, sin is sin. Something you need to be forgiven for is sin, and it's all filth to God so let me rethink this for tomorrow.
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
Day 25 - Love Dare - Love Forgives
Dare:
Whatever you haven't forgiven in David, forgive it today. Let it go. Say from my heart, "I choose to forgive."
There are things I think about in the past, but have I not forgiven David for them? It's not that I dwell on them. The thought of these things only comes up once in a long, long while, not even once a year. What feelings do they create in me when they come up? I don't hold them over David's head. They happened so long ago, almost a different lifetime. Yet, I still harbor bad feelings about them. I don't think I ever actually forgave David for them, just kind of brushed them under a rug. I guess it's time to really say from my heart, I choose to forgive these things.
Results:
It was such a busy, busy day that I didn't have time to even think about forgiveness. That also means I didn't think about anything that David needed forgiveness about. Well, my weekend starts tonight (I'm off on Fridays) and I need to take time to pray and really concentrate on forgiving David. SOme of it just seems so silly, because this stuff was all 30 years ago. I really don't think about it. But I guess it's there in the background, so it needs to be done.
Whatever you haven't forgiven in David, forgive it today. Let it go. Say from my heart, "I choose to forgive."
There are things I think about in the past, but have I not forgiven David for them? It's not that I dwell on them. The thought of these things only comes up once in a long, long while, not even once a year. What feelings do they create in me when they come up? I don't hold them over David's head. They happened so long ago, almost a different lifetime. Yet, I still harbor bad feelings about them. I don't think I ever actually forgave David for them, just kind of brushed them under a rug. I guess it's time to really say from my heart, I choose to forgive these things.
Results:
It was such a busy, busy day that I didn't have time to even think about forgiveness. That also means I didn't think about anything that David needed forgiveness about. Well, my weekend starts tonight (I'm off on Fridays) and I need to take time to pray and really concentrate on forgiving David. SOme of it just seems so silly, because this stuff was all 30 years ago. I really don't think about it. But I guess it's there in the background, so it needs to be done.
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
Day 24 - Love Dare - Love vs. Lust
Dare:
End it now. Identify every object of lust in my life and remove it. Single out every lie I've swallowed in pursuing forbidden pleasure and reject it.
I read today's title and immediately thought of, well, you know what the word lust conjures up. At first I thought, okay, not a problem, but, whoa, this is a big thing. I know I lust for things. When I'm depressed I want to spend money. It's an automatic reaction. I'm going to spend some time really praying for God to reveal to me the other things I lust so I can reject them.
Results:
God has the best sense of humor ever. Yesterday I wrote that I'm giving up Bejeweled Blitz because it occupies too much of my time. Well yesterday I was notified that I received 1,000,000 points in the weekly drawing. Points can be used to buy bonuses during the game and, yes, it's a whopping amount of points. Now these points are going to sit there wasted, always tempting me. Hmmm, maybe it was Satan that arranged for the points. Either way, I am determined that I will keep that dare and not go near Bejeweled Blitz.
I'm continuing to pray about things I lust after. This will probably be an ongoing thing. I'm going to pray that God continues to reveal to me when something I'm thinking about or am about to do is to satisfy my lust and to help direct back to my true love, my husband.
End it now. Identify every object of lust in my life and remove it. Single out every lie I've swallowed in pursuing forbidden pleasure and reject it.
I read today's title and immediately thought of, well, you know what the word lust conjures up. At first I thought, okay, not a problem, but, whoa, this is a big thing. I know I lust for things. When I'm depressed I want to spend money. It's an automatic reaction. I'm going to spend some time really praying for God to reveal to me the other things I lust so I can reject them.
Results:
God has the best sense of humor ever. Yesterday I wrote that I'm giving up Bejeweled Blitz because it occupies too much of my time. Well yesterday I was notified that I received 1,000,000 points in the weekly drawing. Points can be used to buy bonuses during the game and, yes, it's a whopping amount of points. Now these points are going to sit there wasted, always tempting me. Hmmm, maybe it was Satan that arranged for the points. Either way, I am determined that I will keep that dare and not go near Bejeweled Blitz.
I'm continuing to pray about things I lust after. This will probably be an ongoing thing. I'm going to pray that God continues to reveal to me when something I'm thinking about or am about to do is to satisfy my lust and to help direct back to my true love, my husband.
Day 23 - Love Dare - Love Always Protects
Dare:
Remove anything that is hindering our relationship, any addiction or influence that's stealing my affection and turning my heart away from David.
Well, one thing comes to mind immediately - BEJEWLED BLITZ has got to go. I am addicted to this game and will play it rather than spend time with David. One of my excuses is that it helps me kep my wits and makes me think. Well, baloney, it's just plain fun, but it steals time away from my relationship, so, goodnight sweet Bejewled Blitz, parting is such deep sorrow (it's not sweet, I'll miss it and plan on not coming back).
Result:
I so want to play Bejewled, but know I need to stay away. Successful so far. Pray for me, I'm an addict.
Remove anything that is hindering our relationship, any addiction or influence that's stealing my affection and turning my heart away from David.
Well, one thing comes to mind immediately - BEJEWLED BLITZ has got to go. I am addicted to this game and will play it rather than spend time with David. One of my excuses is that it helps me kep my wits and makes me think. Well, baloney, it's just plain fun, but it steals time away from my relationship, so, goodnight sweet Bejewled Blitz, parting is such deep sorrow (it's not sweet, I'll miss it and plan on not coming back).
Result:
I so want to play Bejewled, but know I need to stay away. Successful so far. Pray for me, I'm an addict.
Sunday, October 3, 2010
Day 22 - Love Dare - Love is Faithful
Dare:
Choose today to be committed to love even if David has lost most of their interest in receiving it. Say to him today in words similar to there, "I love you. Period. I choose to love you even if you don't love me in return."
Wow, that sounds more like David to me than me to David. I don't always choose to show David the love he deserves, yet I am always aware of his love for me. I'll have to really look at this one and pray. I do need to tell David this.
Results:
Okay, so today we went up for Emmalee's birthday party in Victorville. That meant 1 1/2 - 2 hours in the car each way. That gave us lots of time to talk. I told David on the way home that I was going to tell him that when I look at other couples I just know how much I love him. But then that isn't really true. I love him because I love him. There is no comparing how I love him with how others love each other. He is my soul mate and God put us together. It cheapens my love to compare it to others. My love for David should only be measured against the love that God has for me.
Choose today to be committed to love even if David has lost most of their interest in receiving it. Say to him today in words similar to there, "I love you. Period. I choose to love you even if you don't love me in return."
Wow, that sounds more like David to me than me to David. I don't always choose to show David the love he deserves, yet I am always aware of his love for me. I'll have to really look at this one and pray. I do need to tell David this.
Results:
Okay, so today we went up for Emmalee's birthday party in Victorville. That meant 1 1/2 - 2 hours in the car each way. That gave us lots of time to talk. I told David on the way home that I was going to tell him that when I look at other couples I just know how much I love him. But then that isn't really true. I love him because I love him. There is no comparing how I love him with how others love each other. He is my soul mate and God put us together. It cheapens my love to compare it to others. My love for David should only be measured against the love that God has for me.
Saturday, October 2, 2010
Day 21 - Love Dare - Love is Satisfied in God
Dare:
Be intentional today about making a time to pray and ready my Bible. As I do, immerse myself in the love and promises God has for me.
Sounds simple enough - I need to not just stick this time into an already busy day. I need to do it and stick my busy day around this.
Results:
Man, ended up taking a nap. The prayer part was not so hard because I just need me and God, but I didn't carry my Bible to the places I needed to go. I was so tired and we had activities to fill the rest of the day. I got my priorities wrong. FAIL!!!!!!!!!!!
Be intentional today about making a time to pray and ready my Bible. As I do, immerse myself in the love and promises God has for me.
Sounds simple enough - I need to not just stick this time into an already busy day. I need to do it and stick my busy day around this.
Results:
Man, ended up taking a nap. The prayer part was not so hard because I just need me and God, but I didn't carry my Bible to the places I needed to go. I was so tired and we had activities to fill the rest of the day. I got my priorities wrong. FAIL!!!!!!!!!!!
Friday, October 1, 2010
Day 20 - Love Dare - Love is Jesus Christ
Dare:
Dare to take God a His Word. Dare to trust Jesus Christ for salvation.
I am saved by His Blood. I do try to stray at times, but He brings me right back. I am in His hands and He won't let me go. I need to remember His love for me and how He showed it with His sacrificed.
Wow, half-way through. What will the next 20 days bring? I hope I am reinforced in what is being developed.
Results:
Today was really rough, actually I should say tonight. The day was okay. Then we went with some friends to someone's birthday part, dinner and a movie. I am ashamed to say I said some things about David's driving and I shouldn't have. I'm ashamed.
At dinner time David started with the sarcastic, biting meanness. I don't think he realizes he does it, or maybe he does. I did as I normally do, just sit there and smile. But one of our friends did defend me. That's always the way it goes. I think I'm being the nice wife by not responding but my feelings are getting hurt. I really need to talk to David about how that makes me feel rather than just sit there and take it and get more hurt. I shouldn't be letting people defend me, plus when David does that, and I just sit there and take it, I think it makes him look bad and me look like the martyr. Not the way a marriage should be.
So, there it is. I've put it out there, now I need to do something about it.
Dare to take God a His Word. Dare to trust Jesus Christ for salvation.
I am saved by His Blood. I do try to stray at times, but He brings me right back. I am in His hands and He won't let me go. I need to remember His love for me and how He showed it with His sacrificed.
Wow, half-way through. What will the next 20 days bring? I hope I am reinforced in what is being developed.
Results:
Today was really rough, actually I should say tonight. The day was okay. Then we went with some friends to someone's birthday part, dinner and a movie. I am ashamed to say I said some things about David's driving and I shouldn't have. I'm ashamed.
At dinner time David started with the sarcastic, biting meanness. I don't think he realizes he does it, or maybe he does. I did as I normally do, just sit there and smile. But one of our friends did defend me. That's always the way it goes. I think I'm being the nice wife by not responding but my feelings are getting hurt. I really need to talk to David about how that makes me feel rather than just sit there and take it and get more hurt. I shouldn't be letting people defend me, plus when David does that, and I just sit there and take it, I think it makes him look bad and me look like the martyr. Not the way a marriage should be.
So, there it is. I've put it out there, now I need to do something about it.
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