What's on My Nightstand: February

I'm not getting in as much reading as I'd like lately (those darned Olympics!), but I do have some great books on my nightstand.

Sense and Sensibility (Insight Editions). The insights into the film versions (including inconsistencies) and the culture of 19th Century England make this a fun edition to read. It's like reading Jane with a friend, which is always a delight!

This Momentary Marriage: A Parable of Permanence. I'm not quite finished with this one. Savoring Piper's wisdom for as long as I can. I find myself re-reading it, and learning something new each time.

Hoping for Something Better: Refusing to Settle for Life as Usual. After reading Lisa's raves, I couldn't wait to get started on this book/Bible study (thanks, Jennifer!) I started yesterday, and am already loving it. Nancy Guthrie is a wise woman.

The 10 Best Decisions Every Parent Can Make. A friend recommended this one to me, and I'm anxious to dig in. With a daughter in middle school, I'm looking for all the parenting help I can find.

The Familiar Stranger. I'll be reading and reviewing this one soon.

Are you reading anything good these days? You can link your list here.

The Week in Words: February 22

I don't know about you, but since I've started this carnival I've been much more intentional about my reading. I pay more attention to the words. I start the next week's post early, so I can immediately put in any quote that catches my fancy. Here's the best of this past week.

In this social media day and age, eyes are on us whether we know it or not. We are creating a reputation that will not only become a legacy but a lamp illuminating our character. Every tweet, facebook blurb, blog post, etc., is a catalog of who we are and what we are reflecting to the world. We are called, as followers of Jesus, to be intentional, prayerful, and wise about our presence.

- from this post at (in)courage, written by Sarah Mae

~RT @kirkfranklin: God is NOT trying to figure out His next move for you. you just need to make sure you're ready for it. Sovereign. 

And just for fun:

"It is enough," said she; "to say that he is unlike Fanny is enough. It implies everything amiable. I love him already." - Mrs. Dashwood to Elinor, Sense and Sensibility (Insight Editions) (a very fun edition indeed!)

Your turn! Remember, the link's up til Friday.

Wherein Everything Comes to a Screeching Halt

The heart of man plans his way, but the LORD establishes his steps. - Proverbs 16:9 (ESV)

How true.

As I posted here, R and I had a plan. We I thought the Lord directed us to a better path to achieve that plan. Since that time, it's become abundantly clear that we are I am to stop. I don't know if God's telling us me that we're heading in another direction, or if we're just taking a break.

I didn't know it, but R has been frustrated because he's been praying and doesn't have any answers. And here I thought I had them all. The Lord reminded me that I am to follow my husband, not clasp his hand and pull him behind me like a toddler. He is the leader. I.am.not.

I also remembered something Mr. Blackaby taught in Experiencing God...if you don't have direction from God, keep doing what you're doing until you get it. So, for now, we're going to keep doing what we've been doing - nothing more, nothing less. R will continue working and taking his class. I'll continue working and keeping the home fires burning. And we'll be waiting on that direction.

With
All,
I
Trust