You're In Then You're Out

LOL. If you can read the title without singing Hot'n Cold by Katy Perry, I applaud you. This post has literally nothing to do with her song, but these words fit and I'm not going to waste time trying to think of another.

I'm a little late to the party but my friend Alexi wrote a post back in January of things that are "in" and "out" this year for her. She was inspired by a podcast and I was inspired by her.

So here we go in no particular order, just as they come to mind.

OUT praying for a husband who can lead me spiritually. Quite frankly, I've forged my own faith my whole life, and having a man in my life isn't going to change that. Honestly, I am wrestling with what "spiritual leadership" is Biblically and what are man written "rules" for the Christian life. For clarity sake, I am not looking to overpower a future husband either. IN praying for a husband who walks with Jesus daily, not perfectly, but consistently. Praying he knows the weight of sin and the sweetness of God's grace, and that he lives changed because of it. Praying that as we hold hands walking toward eternity, we humbly point one another to Jesus, through the ups and downs of life.

OUT saying yes to everything, for fear of letting people down; always trying to justify my decisions. IN knowing my limits and setting boundaries; being confident in my decisions, I don't owe anyone an explanation.

OUT feeling guilty for not reading my Bible first thing in the morning. It's not a sin to do other things first or to not pick up your Bible at all in a day (gasp). IN going to the gym early in the morning, praying as I go and then enjoying some time in my car reading my Bible afterward with breakfast, before starting the work day. Not stressing if I don't have much time or if I don't get it in. Breaks or bedtimes are great for reading or journaling too. Also IN, setting time aside on the weekend to deeper study because that is more practical and sustainable for me :)

OUT holding back my personality for the sake of making others comfortable. IN being myself. I've tried everything else and as I approach thirty, I realize that was a waste of time and there is no one better to be than the person God made me to be.

OUT obsessing over trying to have all my ducks in a row and have it all together, reprimanding myself for failing. IN prioritizing healing one day at a time and not worrying about the future.

IN being brave and going on adventures by myself. Learning to be confident trying new things on my own, doing it scared and seeing what beauty comes from it. OUT waiting to try new things until I have a man try them with.

IN sleepy time mock-tails. I am not a huge fan of cherries, but turns out tart cherry juice is good with sparkling water. Not sure how much impact it will have on my quality of sleep but it's a fun nighttime drink to enjoy. OUT stressing about having a perfect bedtime routine, what works for me might be different than what works for someone else and that's okay.

IN writing how I want to write and sharing what I want to share, how I want to share it. God has gifted me with writing and if I don't put it to use for His Name, what good is it? OUT stressing about how one will receive what I say or that I will be "theologically incorrect" and lead people astray. He's not asking for perfection, He asks me to show up faithfully and watch Him show up in powerful ways. His power is made perfect in my weakness. I can't thwart His plans and the weight of the world is on His shoulders. I won't say everything perfectly and I don't need to put the pressure on myself to do so. I can freely share my insights, experiences and wrestling's, as I seek to live out the gospel of grace. He will lovingly correct me along the way.

IN keeping chocolate on hand and thoroughly enjoying a piece when I want to. OUT forcing myself to eat a "healthier dessert" when I really want the chocolate.

IN letting go of battles that aren't mine to fight, no matter how passionate I am or how hurt I was. Exodus 14:14 "The Lord will fight for you. You only need to be still." Some things are better left unsaid. OUT trying to fight battles that I don't have the power to fight.

Alright that is all I can think of tonight my friends. It's your turn, what are your ins and outs for the year?

Grace and love to you until next time,

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