Itz Holistically Wholesome

I am so pumped and ready to take on all the new year has for me. Let me put some positive energy out there by saying that I anticipate nothing but better because “I am blessed, and everything works out for me in Jesus’ Name.” We all know that we love the newness of things, and it is no wonder that you or I feel so incredibly well at the beginning of the year. Behold, all things are made new and the old as past, right? It is like finding love for the first time or starting a new job; we feel excited and happy and put forward our best. After all, we want to make a good impression, and rightfully so. On the flip side, if you are anything like me, there comes a time when the thrill of newness wears off, and its back to old lazy habits, but for this year, I pray by God’s grace that not just me but every one of us will follow through on being the best version of ourselves and making use of every opportunity to be better mentally, physically, emotionally, professionally and don’t forget spiritually for 2023 and the years to come. We are setting precedence, you all, one of consistency, proactiveness, and purposefulness, and by putting God first, we most definitely can and will.

So how did I start my New Year?

1. Putting God First – I have been through many tribulations, and 2023 was a journey. But I have also had many victories and learned that I would have never made it without God. And so, for 2023, I have decided to make it about God and Jesus (as my son puts it) and less about me. I desire to be more deliberate about putting Him first in my life. So I have embarked on a journey of rediscovering his purpose for me by listening and studying his word more. I am also trying to pray more often because inspiration tells me that prayer is the key to unlocking heaven’s door, and I plan to open it this year. Can you say abundant blessings? Beloved, pray for me while I pray for you, okay? “Honor the Lord with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your produce; then your barns will be filled with plenty, and your vats will be bursting with wine” (Proverbs 3:9-10).
2.  Three hundred sixty-five days Challenge to read the Bible in conjunction with the Conflict of Ages Series. So let me explain the conflict of ages series for those wondering. So basically, it is several books by Ellen G. White in which, through inspiration, she spoke about the events in the Bible. The books follow biblical world history, focusing on the conflict between Satan and Jesus. The books are Patriarch and Prophet, Prophet and Kings, The Desire of Ages, Acts of The Apostles, and The Great Controversy. So far, I have been having a catawampus time with this challenge. We are currently in week two, and my daughter and I have been reading it together daily. We read three scriptures daily from the Bible, beginning with Genesis and ten pages from the first book Partraich and Prophets. We also form a group with our family and friends who are participating in the challenge as well. I feel inspired, refreshed, and motivated as I discover God’s character of love and forgiveness. By mentioning it here, I will be more accountable and ensure I complete it.
3.  Back to healthy – I also started being more mindful about how and what I eat because I had slackened up. I want to be in excellent health, not only for me but in making healthier choices; I am honoring God in the process. “So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all to the glory of God” (1st Corinthians 10:31)
4.  Fitness – I am so lazy in winter, but I miss working out and cannot wait to return to how I was post-baby. My baby is four months, and I feel much better when I work out; there is no more abdominal discomfort. Along with my daily exercise routine, I have joined a “100 Crunches A Day Challenge/Fundraiser for St. Jude Children’s Children Research Hospital. The money raised will go towards helping to find cures and save the lives of children. So not only am I motivated to get back in shape, but I am supporting a good cause as well. Win, Win. Please click here if you want to donate and participate in the challenge. “A wise man is strong; yes, a man of knowledge increases strength” (Proverbs 25:5). https://www.facebook.com/donate/3049494718687141/?fundraiser_source=external_url
5.  Marriage/Family Relationship – Let me tell you, I am chasing wholesomeness, and so I will leave no stones unturned. I want it all!!! So I have been working with my husband and children to make our home a place of love and Godliness. We need each other; therefore, we should be interested in nurturing and sustaining the marriage/family relationship. “Whoever brings ruin on their family will inherit only wind, and the fool will be servant to the wise” (Proverbs 11:29, NIV)
6.  Outreach – I want to do more for others, so I am open to opportunities where I can be of service. We can always do something for others; it does not have to be financially wise. Whatever way you can be of value to others, especially the less fortunate, do so. “Don’t forget to do good and to share what you have because God is pleased with these kinds of sacrifices” (Hebrew 13:6). “Those who are gracious to the poor lend to the Lord, and the Lord will fully repay them,” (Proverbs 19:7).

Please share how the new year has been going for you.

God Bless.