Wednesday, May 7, 2014

Change

You have probably have noticed that my blog name has changed if you have reached this point.  I was reading an article recently in the newest installment of  Christianity Today by Joe Maxwell in which he quoted Matt Chandler, a Texas Pastor, in stating "...I need to live with convictional courage..."  Now it really was a short portion of the actual quote but it really set my heart on fire. 

So how is that defined?
       - To have enough courage and determination to carry out one's goal's
       - To have the confidence to act in accordance with one's belief
       -The quality of mind or spirit that enables a person to face difficulty, danger, pain, etc. without fear

In light of the recent events in my life and the life of family members  and friends it seemed appropriate to adopt this particular phrase for my own.  I like the way it stirs me, makes me want more.  It challenges me in all levels of my life and I am a challenge type of a person I guess.  I don't look at myself as being very courageous.  I will be the first to let you know that I do not like conflict or arguments however, I also feel very strongly about things I know as truth and I can be very determined when the call arises.  I am in the process of building the confidence to act according to my beliefs and have taken some steps of faith recently that surprise me.  I am not actively seeking out opportunities to face difficulty, danger, pain or the etc.  Being me there is a fear or anxiety factor when I think of any of those things.  However, I am catching myself more and more relying on the knowledge that God is in control and the peace that results really surpasses my understanding.  One of those moments came during a conversation with my wonderful husband; If I am truly pursuing God and His will for my life with my whole heart then any decision I make God is going to honor.  Don't take that as I can have anything, it is not!  It is saying that my decisions are either good or can also result in learning experiences that God can use in order to further my character and faith.  Loosely that converts to the ability to be bold in making a decision when I am focused on God and having confidence that wherever the results take me it will be alright.  Freeing to say the least. 

So with that said a fair warning to those who choose to follow my blog or continue to follow my blog.  You are going to get to know me outside of the ranger role.  Oh, I still intend to post adventures and such but want to challenge myself in some very real applications of what I believe.  Some days may have very little insight into much on the intellectual side of life and more on reflections of daily routines.  Some days will probably see no activity at all, after all not everything I do is noteworthy to anyone but myself.  So, as I said, this is your fair warning. 




Badlands by Moonlight

Badlands by Moonlight
Photo provided by Larry McAffee Badlands TRT 2009