Books
These are just some of the books I have read that have inspired me to keep living in abundance!
Perfectly Yourself by Matthew Kelly
I have read several books by Matthew Kelly, but this one is my favorite thus far. He breaks the book up into nine chapters, each chapter followed by a lesson and how we can apply that lesson, to our own life. We all want to be the best version of ourselves, but are we taking the steps necessary to achieve it?
The 7 Choices to Ignite a Radically Inspired Life On Fire by John O’Leary
A must read! I hope I can hear John O’Leary speak someday. He is a witness to how suffering, loss, and pain can change your life for the better, if you allow it to. He shares insights and such an emotional story that you won’t be able to put the book down. I also love the humor he adds along the way.
The Janitor by Todd Hopkins & Ray Hilbert
A quick read and highly motivational. I think we all want to be successful, but at what cost? Finding success in your professional life doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice your personal relationships. Follow these six simple principles and maybe you can achieve balance.
Gifted Hands by Ben Carson with Cecil Murphey
This book is about the author, Ben Carson, and how he went from an inner-city child who lacked motivation to be recognized in 1987 for his part in the successful separation of Siamese twins joined at the back of the head. I love the role his mom played in his life, encouraging him every step of the way.
The Last Lecture by Randy Pausch with Jeffrey Zaslow
I first saw Randy Pausch’s lecture on a video that went viral. I was absolutely amazed and brought to tears by what he had to say. I was thrilled when my mom gave each of my siblings and I this little gem as a gift.
Even though Randy had been diagnosed with terminal cancer, this book isn’t about dying; it is about living. It’s about seizing every moment, overcoming obstacles, and dreaming. Randy says, “Time is all you have…and you may find one day that you have less than you think.”
When God Doesn’t Fix It by Laura Story with Jennifer SchuchmannLaura Story is a singer/songwriter and author. This book is Laura’s personal journey on how her husband was diagnosed with a brain tumor, which led to what she calls, broken dreams. However, through her faith, community, and Jesus, she discovered new blessings, joy, and a deeper love for Jesus
Music
I love ALL music genres and that includes Christian music. I have endured several obstacles this past year, and when I am feeling depleted these songs help to carry me through.
“Rescue” by Lauren Daigle
“Broken Hallelujah” by The Afters
“Known” by Tauren Wells
“Even If” by MercyMe
“Reckless Love” by Cory Asbury
“Your Grace Is Enough/Here I am Lord” (Live Version) by Matt Maher
“Blessings” by Laura Story
“Our God” by Chris Tomlin
“Dream Small” by Josh Wilson
“Only Jesus” by Casting Crowns
“You Say” by Lauren Daigle
“Hold Us Together” (Live Version) by Matt Maher
“It is Well” by Bethel Music
“So Will I” by Hillsong United
“Alive Again” (Live Version) by Matt Maher
“I Can Only Imagine” by MercyMe
Scripture
Scripture doesn’t have to feel intimidating. I have learned that just opening the Bible and starting with some of the gospels, I find myself comforted, joyful, peaceful, and loved.
I have felt betrayed just as Jesus did; I was lost at different times in my life just, as the one sheep that went astray. I was given a spiritual model to follow in my life, and at times, fallen from it. I have felt judged, but maybe I was the one judging. At times, I felt despair and wondered where God was in all the pain I was suffering.
For the son of man did not come to be served but to serve and give his life as ransom for many. Mark 10:45
I have given you a model to follow, so that I have done for you, you should also do. John 13:15
What is your opinion? If a man has a hundred sheep and one of them goes astray, will he not leave the ninety-nine in the hills and go search for the stray? And if he finds it, amen I say to you, he rejoices more over it than over the ninety-nine that did not stray. Matthew 18:12-14
Christ said, “Be merciful just as your Father is merciful. Stop judging and you will not be judged. Stop condemning and you will not be condemned. Forgive and you will be forgiven.” Luke 6:36-38
Blessed are they who mourn, for they will be comforted. Matthew 5:4
And while they were eating, he said, “Amen I say to you, one of you will betray me.” Matthew 26:21
And about 3:00 Jesus cried out in a loud voice, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” Matthew 27:46
For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him might not perish but might have eternal life. John 3:16
Then Jesus said, “Come to me all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28
For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them. Matthew 18:20
Jesus said to them, “I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me will never hunger, and whoever believes in me will never thirst.” John 6:35
Spirituality is all about becoming more like God, who is Spirit. John 4:24
Blessed are the eyes that see what you see. For I say to you, many prophets and kings desired to see what you see, but did not see it, and to hear what you hear, but did not hear it. Luke 10:23-24
living in abundance 