Focus - Emily

Sometimes as I read each chapter I am amazed at how much of a Wild Girl I really was, not necessarily intentionally but just out of ignorance and having little regard for His Word and Truth. (In high school and college). So my praise to Him abounds that He doesn't leave us where we are but desires to continually make us new! I can't go back and do anything about the past but I can purpose to change my current self/behavior and to be mindful of these things as our girls grow and need guidance.
Trying not to be too hard on myself this week (thanks Hannah for the verbal encouragement there). I don't have a ton of insight to share this week so I'll tell you a few things I underlined in my book.
Pg 87 she says "... Many women spend their whole lives lying in wait. They perpetually wait and watch for their next big catch hoping it will bring them the fulfillment they so desperately desire. Predators 'lie in wait' because they rely on others to satisfy their desires. They are greedy at heart." **Is Jesus enough for me? Am I resting content in Him and Him alone. I may not be 'lying in wait' for a guy anymore but it could be a house, new clothes, new shoes, whatever I think might give satisfaction. Jesus is the ONLY One who satisfies!
Pg 88-89 shares "She has a kingdom-focus instead of a me-focus....The Wise woman's life is all about enjoying God and making Him famous... In everything she does - from the way she dresses to the way she orders her day - she seeks to delight in Christ and put His beauty and excellence on display..... she focuses on building His kingdom - not on building her own... She has a profound sense of mission" **Oofta! Is He the central point in my life and day? Am I seeking to make Him famous in my attitudes and actions? People are watching me (us). Do we represent Christ and intentionally give Him the credit and glory for all things good in our lives?
I was really encouraged by the story shared of the young girl with a desire and drive to make quilts for 9-11 victims. God is so good. Though I don't really feel like it's the season for my to start anything big like that I know I have areas that I can improve on as far as putting others first and giving my day to God. My time and energies are pretty focused on loving and serving my family but if God puts someone on my heart, I certainly take the time to pray for them and generally try to reach out (via text, email, snail mail, etc) to let them know they are loved. I know God is growing me to be able to pour into and come alongside other young women, just not real sure what He'll have that look like yet. I'm open to His leading.
Love you two ladies!! Thanks for your willingness and openness to share as we read through this together. It's definitely good to be reading through this together so we can offer each other good perspective.