Facebook

I think it's going to take me a little while to get back into the swing of blogging again. It's such a great discipline to write regularly. When I used to post regularly, I began to see life through "blog-colored glasses." I guess people still think like that but with Facebook instead.

Personally, I have to be careful with both blogs and Facebook. I feel like I'm the only one who struggles with this - but envy knocks at my door pretty regularly if I'm not careful. I've written about that struggle a couple times before. Pastor Matt has preached about how envy is the need to be special. Or was it the need to be needed? Now I don't remember. Anyway, they both resonate with me.

My friend is writing a book on abiding in Christ. I've been able to read one chapter, and it's amazing. Just that one chapter has stuck with me and has encouraged me to set my eyes on Christ in various situations. Usually those situations have to do with envy, since that's such a big weakness.

In her book, she talks about Jeremiah 17. Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord. He will be like a tree planted by the stream. I won't go into everything she teaches about, but one thing has to do with where we send our roots for nourisment. So on a good day, I'm asking myself, "Where am I sending my roots? To God or to man?" I still have a lot of growth to do in this process, but I do think I'm moving forward rather than backwards.

I think I'm back

Today I was inspired by a client to start writing on here again. It's been a long time, and I have a feeling that it's going to take me a little while to get into the swing of things.

I have two "new years resolutions" this year. One is to get my front yard to look great. The other is to discover how to use my photography business for God. The first one I have made very little progress on. The clock is ticking as it's beginning to get hot and my planting window will continue to narrow down. We would love to plant one or two fruit trees as well as some roses and lavender. We also need to stay on top of the weeds and put some mulch down. I have Lisa to thank for these plans!

My second resolution is coming along. It's not as easy as it seems. I know that art is glorifying to God, but I personally don't want it to be that foggy and indirect. I want to give this business completely to God and have it be an open vessel for him to use. That's scary and exciting at the same time. If you have a business and have figured this out, give me advice!

I have the urge to end this with "Love you" as if I'm writing an email to a close friend.