Starting Something New

We are now in the second month of a brand new year! Some of us have already made resolutions, promises or goals. Whether you made a resolution or not, in addition to promising to make a change, why not start something new! It might be a new hobby, a new habit, new behavior or new attitude. This Winter 2009 issue of The UP Times Quarterly is devoted to starting something new. I believe God has great things in store for all of us. Even in the midst of a storm, God is able to do above and beyond what we can imagine.

Stepping out of our comfort zones can be challenging and at times overwhelming and intimidating, but oh so rewarding. Trying something new can lead to exciting things that you would never have experienced. Plus, it gives us more opportunities to rely totally on our Heavenly Dad.

So what’s going to be my new thing? I’ve always wanted to try my hand at jewelry making, but always made excuses: I’m too busy, I’m not creative enough. I’ll start by checking out some books at my local library and plan to take a class at my local community college or my city’s recreation center. I’ll report sometime later in the year how I’m doing.

What’s your new thing? Click here to share

Rest from a Busy and Noisy Life

In today’s world, we are constantly busy. Technology has given us nearly-instant communication and transportation. We are always doing something – we have continuous access to entertainment at our fingertips. Our world is also filled with noise. Radios, i-pods, and cd players give us constant access to music, while cell phones ensure that even when we are alone, we always have someone to talk to. We have become a generation of multi-taskers. We spend very little time in silence, whether we are at home chilling or stuck in traffic. We are surrounded by a busy, noisy society that places very little value on peaceful silence and reflection. The more we fill our lives with noise and activity, the fewer opportunities we give ourselves for quiet prayer and reflection.

It is important for us to slow down and take some time to grow closer to God. The more time we spend in silence, the better we are able to hear God. 1 Kings 19:12, says “After the earthquake came a fire, but the LORD was not in the fire. And after the fire came a gentle whisper.”

Read the entire article.

Gwen Smith shares a devotional on resting in the Lord.

Valentine Gift for Hubby

A valentine gift does not always need to put a dent in your purse. Barbara Rainey shared some ideas on how we can please our wonderful husbands not only at Valentines day, but all during the year.

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Share your favorite gift that you like to give to your valentine