Balance Acrostic: 2024 Theme Word Refresher

**I will be taking a blogging break until mid-August. See you back here then!

A few years ago I wrote an acrostic as a refresher for my theme word that year, and I soon decided it was an exercise I would benefit from each year. 

For me, the creative exercise of writing acrostics is an excellent way to go deeper in my consideration of my annual theme words. Doing so helps me think of different aspects of the word.

As I remind myself of and reflect on my 2024 theme word balance, I pray you find something to help you find balance in your life as well. Or if you chose a theme word of your own this year, maybe you will be inspired to do something similar with your word too. Whatever the case, friends, may you be blessed and encouraged as you read!

Bend your goals to the current demands on your time.

Ask for God’s wisdom as you determine your priorities.

Let others handle some of your tasks.

Adore God daily and spend time in his Word.

Note your blessings and thank God for them.

Choose health and peace and time with loved ones.

Entrust God with your schedule and time.

“. . . it’s a matter of striking a balance.” 2 Cor 8:13 GW

*What is most challenging for you when it comes to maintaining balance in your life?

*The next issue of Life Notes, my quarterly inspirational newsletter with a giveaway in every regularly scheduled issue, will come out in early August. Sign-up is FREE. *Temporary problem with Life Notes sign-up. To sign up, just contact me

*For info about my book Mother of the Bride check out my Books/My Work page.

*Photo by Sam Carter on Unsplash

“Love” Acrostic: 2020 Theme Word Refresher

Over half the year is gone so it’s past time to give more thought to my 2020 theme word loveFor me, the creative exercise of writing acrostics is an excellent way to go deeper in my consideration of my theme words each year. Doing so helps me think of different aspects of the word.

As I remind myself of and reflect on love, I pray you are blessed and inspired to grow in love as well. And not only that, but if you chose a theme word of your own this year, maybe reading this post today will inspire you to do something similar with your word. Whatever the case, friends, may you be blessed as you read!

Leap to answer God’s call, listen for his voice, learn what pleases him, and let your mouth ever praise and worship him.

Open your arms and heart to one and all, offer forgiveness freely, observe the needs of others, and outdo yourself in kindness and giving.

View yourself and others through the lens of grace, voice your affection to God and loved ones often, vow to say no to selfishness daily, and visit those who need the comfort of your presence.

Enjoy time with the Lord each day, enter lives of others as God opens doors, eliminate gossip and critical words from your conversation, and encourage others at every opportunity.

Join me, won’t you, in living a life of love? Others will be blessed and so will we!

“. . . walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.” Ephesians 5:2 NIV

*What is God saying to you about love today?

*The current issue of Life Notes, my quarterly inspirational newsletter with a giveaway in every regularly scheduled issue, came out yesterday. It’s not too late to receive it. Sign-up is FREE and to the right! (If you’re on a mobile device, scroll to the bottom of the screen and click View Full Site to find it.)

*For info about my book Mother of the Bride and also my Wedding Inspiration cards, check out my Books/My Work page.

*Flickr photo by johnsdigitaldreams.com, Creative Commons License

Mother of the Bride Pep Talk: Encouragement for You

All mothers of the bride need some encouragement from time to time—and never more so than now. Some of you are helping your daughters navigate the disappointment and stresses of a postponed wedding during the current COVID-19 crisis while others of you are weathering the frustrations of delays in your wedding-planning timetable. Nothing like making a challenging job even more challenging, huh?

So Mother of the Bride, here’s an acrostic designed especially for you. Think of it if you’d like as pep talk—my gift of encouragement to you during this season of uncertainty. Hope it refreshes you today!

Mother of the Bride Pep Talk

Moments to treasure forever are unfolding all around you. Soak up each one.
Offer your daughter your continual support. She’ll always remember your love.
Thank God for adding a son to your family. What a gift and blessing!
Helpers greatly ease your stress and most are happy to help. Call on several.
Each step on your MOB journey can hold a blessing. Look for them.
Rejoice that your daughter has found the love of her life. Welcome him with open arms.

O
ther people will follow your lead. Let it be gracious and loving.
Fun is important too. Enjoy plenty with your family and friends.

Tell your husband or best friend about your current stresses. You need a listening ear.
Have a to-do list. Let it take the pressure off and help you stay organized.
Easy is good. Keep things simple wherever you can.

Believe the best about yourself and others. Nurture your positive attitude.
Remember to rest and refresh yourself. This will help you be at your best.
Imagine the wonderful celebration your hard work is helping make possible. What joy!
Daughters are one of the best gifts God gives. Celebrate and cherish yours!
Every blessing of wedding day will forever bring you joy. Start thanking God today!

Blessings to you and yours, MOB!

*You might also like to read Wisdom and Encouragement for the Mother of the Bride, Spirit and Soul Refreshment for the Mother of the Bride, and 9 Quotes to Encourage and Help You on Your Mother of the Bride Journey

*For info about my book Mother of the Bride and also my Wedding Inspiration cards, check out my Books/My Work page.

*The current issue of Life Notes, my quarterly inspirational newsletter with a giveaway in every regularly scheduled issue, came out last week. It’s not too late to receive it. Sign-up is FREE and to the right! (If you’re on a mobile device, scroll to the bottom of the screen and click View Full Site to find it.)

*Flickr photo by Artem Beliaikin, Creative Commons License