As I read through Anne's book, Disciplines of the Beautiful Woman, I'm reminded that establishing priorities is vital. She reminds her readers that we should think about our top priorities before we decide what time we are going to get up in the morning. God comes first! She says that everything in our lives must converge at one point: Christ. And that's the only way we'll become integrated, focused, whole women. Once we let our hearts go to God, we settle into Him, making Him our home where we then 'abide' in Him --- nestling there in that secure and strong fortress. Our focus remains strong and our abiding faithful when we practice His presence, guard our quiet time with him, and worship Him with others.
"I have set the Lord continually before me; because He is at my right hand, I will not be shaken."
Disciplines of the Beautiful Woman
Anne Ortlund
I've been meaning to post about that book, how it had such a significant impact on me when I first read it. (My copy of that book is about as rag tagged as my copy of Edith Schaeffer's Hidden Art book.)
ReplyDeleteI know my daughter bought the book that has all of the "Discipline" books in it and she has enjoyed it very much.
Seems to really be the key for an abiding spirit, converging with Christ. Blessings.
ReplyDeleteI read this book many years ago and found it to be very uplifting. I often find I've neglected my quiet time for reading and prayer. When I do, the day does not seem to go as well. This is a great reminder. Thank you for sharing.
ReplyDeleteSo beautifully said and a reminder needed daily. Sounds like a wonderful book.
ReplyDeleteSeems like it is a book worth having. I have not seen it over here but then I have not been in a Christian bookshop for ages.
ReplyDeleteThis was an ouch one.......
before we decide what time we are going to get up in the morning.
You mean you want me to DECIDE what time I get up in the morning???
In retirement, and ill health retirement, I am often awake until 5 am, although I have been doing better lately but am hardly ever settled before 2.30 AM and while this suits me and keeps my pain levels low it limits my contacts to people who do not mind visiting me in a dressing gown. There are some changes coming and a week and a bit, so maybe they will assist the ability to decide!! what time I am going to get up.
I do set alarms on rare days, but more often than not I sleep till I wake. So there was a little ouchie there.
I love the word "abide." I'm taking note of this book...sounds like a good one.
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