Busy Start to Winter

So I have not put up a new post since October. Wow. That is a really long time.

Not that I actually think anyone is missing my posts, but if you were wondering why on earth I am not posting...there are a few reasons.

I have found that bloggers need to take breaks. There are seasons when we just don't have the heart to post and post and post. Instead our hearts are focused on our home lives, our children, homeschooling...stuff like that. And my fall/early winter has proved this to be true.

I also needed a break from blogging because I have been writing a book. So I have been writing, just not on my blogs.

I hope your days have been filled with the Lord's chosen will for you, whether it is encouraging others through weblogs and social media, participating in small groups, giving your time in service to others, or just being a mom to your children. And if you happen to have a blog and you happen to have guilt when you don't post all the time...then let this post give you permission to throw that guilt away. When anything, even blogging, becomes a chore and starts to rule over your life and your time, then you really must step back and take a breather. God will guide you gently when you have young children (yes, that is actually Biblical - I challenge you to search your Bible and find it!)

Here is a sample from my writing project:

     Acts 20:23 - "I only know that in every city the Holy Spirit warns me that prison and hardships are facing me."

     Do you expect to hear from the Holy Spirit personally? On a daily basis?

     If not, you need to adjust your expectations! Our Counselor, the Holy Spirit, is more willing to speak to us than we are to listen. What on earth might we hear from Him if only we would attune our ears?

     In Acts 20:23, Paul states that he knew what was ahead because the Holy Spirit had warned him. He was not told to turn back, nor did he become fearful. Rather, Paul was prepared for what lay ahead - simply because he expected to hear clearly from the Holy Spirit and was willing to accept what he was told, whether it be good or bad, without complaint.

     Do you accept difficult news with the right attitude? Do you joyfully take good from the hand of the Lord, and angrily shove away bad? This is a poor way to respond. Reset your thinking in accordance with God's word and willingly accept the Holy Spirit's wise counsel. Of course, that will not contradict the Bible. You should not simply assume that every thought running through your mind is the Holy Spirit speaking to you. But do listen expectantly, in prayer, and when He speaks to you, with a grateful and obedient heart, listen earnestly.

     Paul was willing to hear what the Spirit said to him. May it be our prayer to do the same.




There's a little sample of what I have been working on. Thanks for reading it!

May you be blessed this Christmas as you remember that He is truly the only gift that matters.

Day 325 done :)

Jan L. Burt
author of The Homeschooling Mothers Bible Study


As an aside, I would like to mention something new I have been doing via Twitter. I take copious sermon notes, and review them often. Last week I realized it would be great to share some of the exact quotes I write down as my pastor preaches each Sunday. Using the hashtag #KelleyLandenbergerSermon, I have been tweeting quotes. Check it out and be encouraged! My Twitter handle is @ATHomeschool.