March Newsletter

Scripture Memory, No Spend Month, & Accountability

This month, I've been thinking about accountability, specifically in my faith and writing. I’m starting by thinking about these 2 things.

1. Make sure my goals are beneficial 

2. Remove distractions

Recently, I started meeting with a mentor for prayer, Bible study, and scripture memory. I wasn’t sure if it would be doable with a toddler but Zoom makes it easier to meet during nap time. (: Although it requires time and energy, it has been so encouraging! For instance, I have a list of twenty verses I'm trying to memorize, but I wouldn’t be able to do it if I didn't have someone to recite them to. Accountability can be scary at first, but I'm grateful for the chance to grow.

I'm also grateful to learn from my writing group. I used to think that accountability took up large amounts of time, but we’re able to communicate via text or voice message about writing ideas or life updates. 

A lot of this month's events wouldn't have happened if I didn’t have accountability.

I'd love to hear what accountability looks like in your life. How has accountability been helpful for you, and what lessons have you learned from the process? 

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No Spend Month

I tried a no spend month, inspired by

Laura Rennie

who offered to keep me accountable!

She does a great job spelling out her rules, but I tried to only spend on

1. Gifts

2. Groceries

3. Necessities

However, I could buy things if I had a gift card or sold something on Facebook marketplace.

This was my first time trying this, but I only ended up spending money on some mascara, a consignment sale, and a water table for my son. (Looks like I need to start selling something!)

It has also been a good exercise in self-control and putting things in my Amazon basket instead of checkout. (Although I was very tempted by Athleta’s sale and the Target maternity section.)

It has also helped me remove distractions, instead of spending time scrolling through Amazon or Facebook marketplace. I would encourage you to try it!

Recreation

Photo by C D-X on Unsplash

Journeywomen Podcast

Scripture Memory with

Hunter Beless

Scripture memory is so important, but I don't hear much about it. This podcast was filled with practical tips like putting laminated verses in the shower or taking them to the park to memorize during moments of downtime. Glenna encourages us to memorize when our hands are busy but our minds are free, what a great reminder!

“One of the reasons we even have Scripture is to remember so that you can have hope (Romans 15:4). That is so key. That is why we study the Word; it's why we think about it, it's why we spend time rehearsing phrases over and over again.”

Glenna Marshall

More favorite podcasts here!

Reads

My sister-in-law is keeping me accountable as we read through Ruth Chou Simon's book, Pilgrim. Without her, it would probably get lost under the couch.

We’re both busy moms and decided to check-in weekly about what we’ve learned. This book is easy to read because it’s full of beautiful watercolor paintings and scriptural truths.

“Though the road may be rocky, God provides reminders along the way to show you that He writes your story, paves your path, and walks with you always.” (Ruth Chou Simons)

Dream Big: Bob Goff

Bob has an interesting take on narrowing down ambitions and pursuing them. He's a very engaging and humorous author. He is a great storyteller with crazy examples of chasing his dreams.

“The people you spend time with will play the largest part in the ambitions you achieve, not the minutes you saved each day by avoiding them. Be available. Talk to everyone. Become their student, not their teacher. Love’s goal isn’t ever efficiency; it’s presence.”

This month, I’m thankful for the accountability groups in my life and would encourage you to reach out to others. Even if it’s just a text or voice message, you never know how your words could bless others.

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