Somebody on a message board asked, "What are you currently reading?"
I am doing the Bible in a year plan that I linked to in a previous post. I am currently in the books of Acts, Joshua and Job. I am delighted and amazed how the chapters I’m reading seem to be so apropos to something that is going on in my day or week, or somehow relate to some question I’ve had.
I just finished Heart To Heart with Pastors’ Wives by Lynne Dugan, and added A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man by James Joyce to my bag. Those are two books I’ve had around my home for years and years now. I have even picked them up a time or two, but never finished them. My plan is to finally read through the books I’ve collected before I borrow or buy another!
I have also begun (again and in earnest!) the book The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron. I have been doing my journaling as part of that book’s exercises, and in addition I have been sketching regularly in my sketchbook. This is a HUGE step for me personally, in overcoming the artist’s block I have been in for so long. I am so hopeful and pleased about this. Someone recently blessed and surprised me with a set of art pencils and other various supplies. God bless them! I have been putting them to productive use.
You might think it’s odd that I am reading two or three books at a time, in addition to a few Bible chapters. I never used to operate that way. I used to read one book until it was finished, often quickly if it was of interest to me, and then begin another. This new way of reading a couple at a time is helpful for my current condition. I like to read a ministry related or Christian theology type of book, and then a fiction or non-fiction book. I read a chapter or two at a time in each book. When I find myself a little bored, distracted, perplexed or even needing to ponder something in one book, it’s helpful to switch gears to another book. I keep a big tote bag with me, with my books, including the journal and sketchbook, and when something I read gives me an idea or an inspiration I can jot it down or draw it out. I am ready to make a note so I can study something I have a question about more in depth later.
I am trying to surrender myself more fully to the Lord in the areas of art, study, prayer and discipline. It is only by God’s grace I can do any of this. I was (and am) so sick of the procrastination and disorganization that plagued me for so long, I have been yielding to the Lord and trying to do better. I have been blessed with some quiet time on my job where I am able to read a little, and been making baby steps toward this end. So that is what I have been reading. What have you been reading?
4 comments:
Sounds a lot like me, having a couple of books going at once...some more serious/deep, some fun, etc. However most of my books are packed for the move. A lot that I'm reading now are from the library. I still have a few left out. I'm definitely a book worm, and a garden worm too. hehehe
I'm glad that you are finding enjoyment in reading and in your art, especially as time goes on. I will keep you in prayer. ((HUGS))
wow! That's a lot of reading and getting ready to do art the way you want. I'm proud of you and hope the Lord adds his richest blessings.
I have a pretty set regimen regarding my reading. First, I ride my bike to the coffee club, then it's on to the chicken (Chik-fil-A). There I read my bible using the Discipleship Journal method. I'm almost two weeks ahead, and will likely keep up the pace.
As far as other reading, my time is spent reading blogs, news and John Bevere's The Bait of Satan.
Keep pushing forward in the name of the Lord.
PW- The multiple books (some deep and some for fun) really is working for me now, I never thought it could have. Maybe it's helping me switch between left-and-right brain tasks/thinking! Thanks for the prayers and for stopping by PW. I pray God-speed for your move!
Pastor Ron - Thanks for the encouragement. Your coffee club sounds like a hoot. I do miss the Chic-fil-a's, there are none in here in the conch Republic. They have wonderful milkshakes and fries.
We have the Bevere book, and it's on my "to read" list. Big Daddy really enjoyed it.
I think it's great you're reading through the Bible. I read the Word best when I have something keeping me to a schedule--which, unfortunately, isn't happening right now.
Presently, I'm reading through the Proverbs, along with a Spurgeon devotional (which I read every year), called Morning by Morning. There's tons of books I want to read--just need much more discipline!
Re-reading The Return of the King, by Tolkein, and sporadically, read from Spurgeon's Sermons.
I need to get organized! Thanks for the encouragement! Linda
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