14 That is why God says in the Scriptures, “Awake, O sleeper, and rise up from the dead; and Christ shall give you light.”
15-16 So be careful how you act; these are difficult days. Don’t be fools; be wise: make the most of every opportunity you have for doing good. 17 Don’t act thoughtlessly, but try to find out and do whatever the Lord wants you to. 18 Don’t drink too much wine, for many evils lie along that path; be filled instead with the Holy Spirit and controlled by him.
19 Talk with each other much about the Lord, quoting psalms and hymns and singing sacred songs, making music in your hearts to the Lord. 20 Always give thanks for everything to our God and Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.
We always think we have more time than we do. I am notorious for being late, not because I am lazy but, quite the opposite, I think I have more time than I do. I overestimate what I can get done in an hour. Thinking, I have plenty of time to do some laundry, read that book, do the dishes, get ready etc… before I leave. This overestimation of time, has gotten me late on many occasions. How often we do the same with life, how quickly time flies by. Before you know, your newborn is two years old, your kids are grown and off to college, your kids are married and your a grandparent. The saying, time waits for no one, is more true than we would like to admit. We must be consciously aware to make the most of each and every moment, we never know how much time we have, we must use it wisely. There are times the days seem so very long, the burdens seem too heavy to bare, dreams appear to be so far off in the distance. Don’t allow the robber of time, to get you distracted on the past, to get you focused on what you don’t have or can’t change, or too focused on the future.
Enjoy the present, enjoy today, enjoy this moment. Laugh, play, have fun. Grasp time and hold on to it, don’t let it pass you by. Enjoy the present, enjoy today, enjoy each moment. Grasp time and hold on to it. My child, enjoy the journey, don’t look back with regrets. do the messy thing, do the hard thing, love intentionally, be purposeful in all you do, every minute that you have. Love hard, live well, move forward with tenacity. Time is the most precious commodity you have, its worth more than money, money can be earned back, once you lose time, its gone. Make the most of it. Dont let it slip through your fingers. Before you know it, it will have vanished. No matter how much time you have big or small, make the most of it. Count the cost, know what’s important and know what’s not. Decide today to live joyfully, not matter the circumstance, redeem the time you have. God gave it to you for a reason.
Think:
How do you want to intentionally use the time you have for the glory of God?
What is the most valuable use of your time?
Pray:
Sit quietly, ask the Lord, where you can redeem time today.
Action:
Set up one or two intentional meetings in the next week or two. Spend quality time with your spouse doing something your spouse enjoys, meet with your adult child or play with you children, call a friend, go to coffee with a sibling, volunteer or mentor at church, help someone with a need. You are not merely existing in a day to day drudgery, going from one problem to another. You are meant for something more, making the most of the precious gift of time.
Start Today:
Even if for a short time, take time in the moments you have. Hold hands with your spouse, go for a walk with a friend, talk to your kids about what interests them, have fun, play a game. Live with purpose, redeem the time, live tranquil.
Rediscovering love can sometimes feel like an uphill battle or even at times, can feel like a climb to the top of Mount Everest, wondering if its even possible. The truth of the matter is, we all struggle at times but, some of us have struggled to the point of despair. Perhaps you are at that point of despair right now. Is it possible to rekindle the love you once had with your husband? I have been there before but, by the grace of God and in obeying what God showed me to implement in my own marriage, I have been able to rediscover that once long lost love and then some. The truth of the matter is, we must do our part and leave the rest in Gods hands. We cannot control another person, we can influence, we can inspire, we can attract but, we are not called to be the Holy Spirit or make another persons decisions. This is a hard lesson, as we feel we have the right, because we are now “One”. After all, the decisions our husband makes, directly affects every aspect of our lives. However, God is our great example in how to “win” devotion, rather than forcing our will and our way on someone else. God gives us a choice. What would love be, without a choice, without the freedom to desire, to pursue?
It can hurt so bad, when the man you vowed to love and he vowed to love you, has resigned to bitterness, disdain and maybe even hatred. Perhaps he has found solace in the arms of another, or solace in a substance. So many things can pull away our husbands from the Lord and from us but, the good news is, we can always rediscover love. It may seem too far gone, your spouse may even say they don’t love you and never will again. Love and feelings come and go. However often times, more than not, even in the most impossible of situations, God can revive the love in both of your hearts if you follow his path in marriage. In this article I will be sharing a few keys, that helped me to get on the path of rediscovering that love and even making it better than ever before. I promise you, it is possible.
Key #1 Our Truth
Remember when you first met your spouse, he seemed all too dreamy, you wonder how could he be real?! You felt pulled together by the universe, only later down the road to question if that ever really existed. You both saw all the wonderful things about each other and looked past any faults that might arise. You recently remembered the days of single life, the terrible dates, the feeling of being alone longing to find someone who saw you. Now fast forward to today, much of those memories seem far off in the distance. As King David in the Bible often did, we must remember the trials, the seemingly impossible circumstances and remember how God has been faithful to us to deliver us and bless us. Your husband is a blessing from God, even if he doesn’t seem like it 90% of the time. You can find the good in your husband. God created him and there is a perfected soul, that God ordained on the inside. The Lord sees us, not as we are but, as we were created, as our perfected selves will one day be. He sees the purpose for which we were created and the purpose for which we were joined together. Don’t worry, God can use an ungodly husband as well, Gods arm is not too short. He sees what can be, not what is. The Lord sees through the eyes of faith and believes the best about us, and so should we with those we are in relationship with. Not blindly hoping, but inspiring our men to rise up and be all that God created him to be. Not by beating him down with our words or shaming him with our disapproval but, by building him up in the things God shows us, that we can truly appreciate. I know this is easier said than done when in the midst of a fiery trial. Remember the truth of the former days, when you believed the best, before the disappointments, hurts and frustrations. There is a good man deep down inside, even if he has been gone for quite sometime. We may not realize as wives but, we can often bring out the bear from the cave. Being overly helpful, constantly suggesting, questioning, and reacting when things don’t go our way. I know many times I have thought I was always correct, my way was the right way and I must help this perfectly capable man God gave me. The truth is, this is not Gods order for marriage and I am not always right. There are many ways of doing things and my husband can help me grow, as I expand my mind to what God is showing me. Remember back to when those old negative patterns didn’t exist in your marriage, and look forward to when a new pattern emerges that the Lord shows you. Hold on to your truth, your vision for what was and what will be, it can be greater than ever before. Get a New Vision, from the Lord, hold it in your minds eye and don’t let go.
Finding Stillness in the Southern Breeze: The Art of Serenity
In a world that often feels like a runaway train, the Southern spirit offers a gentle counterpoint: the art of serenity. It’s a way of being deeply intertwined with the natural world, a rhythm learned from the sway of towering oak trees and the steady chirping of the Carolina wren. This isn’t about escaping the chaos, but finding an anchor within it, a stillness rooted in the very fabric of creation, a truth echoed throughout scripture. The South’s embrace of nature provides a tangible path to this tranquility. Spending time amidst the whispering pines or beside a slow-moving river isn’t just a pleasant pastime; it’s an invitation to reconnect with the divine design. As Psalm 19:1 proclaims, “The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands.” Observing the intricate details of a blooming magnolia or the vast expanse of a starlit Southern sky reminds us of a power greater than ourselves, a source of unwavering peace.
The gentle pace often associated with the South encourages a mindful presence, a slowing down that allows us to truly see and appreciate the beauty around us. This observation echoes the call in Philippians 4:8: “Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” By intentionally focusing on the beauty and order of the natural world, we cultivate a heart attuned to peace and gratitude. In the midst of a frantic world, the art of Southern serenity, rooted in nature and guided by the wisdom of the Bible, offers a profound pathway to inner peace. It’s an invitation to breathe deeply, listen to the quiet whispers of creation, and find solace in the unwavering presence of the Divine. It’s about finding that still, small voice amidst the noise, a voice that speaks of enduring tranquility.
This connection to nature mirrors a deeper spiritual truth. Just as we find solace in the shade of an ancient oak, we find refuge in the unwavering love of God. Matthew 11:28-30 offers this comforting invitation: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” This “rest” isn’t necessarily an absence of activity, but a deep-seated peace that transcends external circumstances, much like the quiet strength of a cypress knee standing firm against the current. Today, practice the art of serenity, find the solace in the secret place of the most high. In a space of gratitude for all that he has created for us to enjoy. Find a piece of nature, wherever that may be for you and take time to bask in it, notice the details and breathe in the fresh air. Find that Source of unwavering peace in the calm of your surroundings. He is waiting to bring you to that place and to speak serenity into your heart and mind. Receive it today, slow down, breathe deep and live southern.
Europe, with its rich history, diverse cultures, and breathtaking landscapes, offers a perfect canvas for a truly unforgettable luxury bespoke vacation. A journey tailored to your specific desires and preferences requires careful planning. Follow these 10 steps to craft your dream European escape.
1. Define Your Vision & Desires (The “Why” and “What”) Before diving into destinations, ask yourself crucial questions. What is the primary purpose of this trip? Is it a romantic getaway, a family adventure, a culinary exploration, a historical deep-dive, or pure relaxation? What kind of experiences are you dreaming of? Think about your preferred pace – fast-paced and multi-city, or slow travel focused on deep immersion in one or two regions? What are your absolute must-haves and definite no-gos? The clearer your vision, the better a travel designer can tailor the experience.
2. Establish a Realistic Budget Range Luxury bespoke travel is an investment in unique experiences and exceptional service. Determine a comfortable budget range. This will help narrow down choices regarding accommodation levels (e.g., iconic grand hotels, private villas, exclusive boutique properties), modes of transport (e.g., private jets, first-class rail, chauffeured cars), and the types of activities and access you can incorporate. Be transparent about your budget with your travel advisor to ensure they can maximize its potential.
3. Research & Select a Reputable Luxury Travel Advisor/Company For a truly bespoke experience, partnering with a specialist is invaluable. Look for travel advisors or companies that specialize in luxury European travel and have a proven track record of crafting personalized itineraries. Seek recommendations, read reviews, and check for affiliations with luxury travel networks (e.g., Virtuoso, Traveller Made). Schedule consultations to find an advisor who understands your vision and with whom you feel a good rapport.
4. Collaborative Itinerary Design – The Heart of Bespoke This is where your vision starts to take shape. Work closely with your chosen travel advisor. Share your initial thoughts, interests, and budget. A good advisor will listen intently, ask clarifying questions, and then present initial concepts and suggestions. This is an iterative process. Expect to go back and forth, refining destinations, experiences, and accommodation choices until the proposed itinerary perfectly reflects your desires. Discuss your preferred style of travel – do you want every detail meticulously planned, or do you prefer a framework with room for spontaneity?
5. Curate Exclusive Experiences & Insider Access This is what elevates a luxury trip to a bespoke one. Leverage your travel advisor’s connections to arrange unique experiences not readily available to the general public. This could include private after-hours tours of renowned museums, cooking classes with Michelin-starred chefs, exclusive wine tastings at historic vineyards, access to private art collections, or tickets to sold-out cultural events. Think beyond the typical tourist trail.
6. Select & Secure Premier Accommodations Your accommodation is a key component of your luxury experience. Whether you envision staying in opulent presidential suites, charming and historic boutique hotels, secluded private villas with dedicated staff, or even unique properties like castles or luxury yachts, your advisor will help you select and secure the best options that align with your preferences and the overall itinerary. Early booking is often crucial, especially for high-demand properties and peak seasons.
7. Arrange Seamless & Luxurious Transportation Consider how you want to move between and within destinations. Options include private jet charters for ultimate speed and convenience, first-class train travel offering scenic routes and comfort, private yacht charters for coastal explorations, or dedicated chauffeured vehicles for seamless door-to-door service. Your travel advisor will coordinate all logistics, ensuring smooth transitions and comfortable journeys.
8. Plan for Personalized Services & Amenities Think about the details that will enhance your comfort and enjoyment. This could include arranging for private chefs, in-villa spa treatments, personal shoppers, dedicated tour guides for specific interests (art history, culinary, etc.), childcare services, or any special requests you might have. No detail is too small when crafting a bespoke experience.
9. Finalize Details, Confirmations & Pre-Departure Preparations Once the core itinerary is set, your advisor will finalize all bookings and confirmations. You will receive a detailed travel portfolio, including flight details, hotel confirmations, tour schedules, contact numbers, and any necessary vouchers or tickets. They will also advise on practicalities like visa requirements (if any), travel insurance, packing suggestions tailored to your destinations and activities, and any relevant cultural etiquette.
10. Embark on Your Journey & Enjoy Impeccable Support With meticulous planning complete, it’s time to relax and immerse yourself in your extraordinary European adventure. A key benefit of a luxury bespoke service is the ongoing support during your travels. Your travel advisor or their local partners should be available to handle any unforeseen circumstances, make last-minute adjustments if desired, or assist with any queries you may have, ensuring a stress-free and memorable experience from start to finish.
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One’s destination is never a place, but a new way of seeing things. – Henry Miller
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Suscipit taciti primis tempor sagittis euismod libero facilisi aptent elementum felis blandit cursus gravida sociis eleifend lectus nullam dapibus netus feugiat. Curae fringilla porttitor quam sollicitudin iaculis aptent leo ligula euismod dictumst penatibus mauris eros etiam praesent volutpat posuere. Metus fringilla ullamcorper odio aliquam lacinia conubia mauris tempor etiam ultricies proin quisque lectus sociis tristique integer phasellus inceptos taciti cras pretium enim adipiscing praesent lobortis morbi cras magna vivamus.
Pretium lorem primis senectus habitasse lectus scelerisque donec ultricies tortor adipiscing fusce morbi volutpat pellentesque consectetur risus molestie curae malesuada. Dignissim lacus convallis massa mauris enim mattis magnis senectus montes mollis taciti phasellus accumsan bibendum semper blandit suspendisse faucibus nibh metus lobortis morbi cras magna vivamus per risus fermentum. Dapibus imperdiet praesent magnis ridiculus congue gravida curabitur sagittis enim magna netus inceptos iaculis sodales parturient.
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Suscipit taciti primis tempor sagittis euismod libero facilisi aptent elementum felis blandit cursus gravida sociis eleifend lectus nullam dapibus netus feugiat. Curae fringilla porttitor quam sollicitudin iaculis aptent leo ligula euismod dictumst penatibus mauris eros etiam praesent volutpat posuere. Metus fringilla ullamcorper odio aliquam lacinia conubia mauris tempor etiam ultricies proin quisque lectus sociis tristique integer phasellus inceptos taciti cras pretium enim adipiscing praesent lobortis morbi cras magna vivamus.
One’s destination is never a place, but a new way of seeing things. – Henry Miller
Pretium lorem primis senectus habitasse lectus scelerisque donec ultricies tortor adipiscing fusce morbi volutpat pellentesque consectetur risus molestie curae malesuada. Dignissim lacus convallis massa mauris enim mattis magnis senectus montes mollis taciti phasellus accumsan bibendum semper blandit suspendisse faucibus nibh metus lobortis morbi cras magna vivamus per risus fermentum. Dapibus imperdiet praesent magnis ridiculus congue gravida curabitur sagittis enim magna netus inceptos iaculis sodales parturient.
Suscipit taciti primis tempor sagittis euismod libero facilisi aptent elementum felis blandit cursus gravida sociis eleifend lectus nullam dapibus netus feugiat. Curae fringilla porttitor quam sollicitudin iaculis aptent leo ligula euismod dictumst penatibus mauris eros etiam praesent volutpat posuere. Metus fringilla ullamcorper odio aliquam lacinia conubia mauris tempor etiam ultricies proin quisque lectus sociis tristique integer phasellus inceptos taciti cras pretium enim adipiscing praesent lobortis morbi cras magna vivamus.
Pretium lorem primis senectus habitasse lectus scelerisque donec ultricies tortor adipiscing fusce morbi volutpat pellentesque consectetur risus molestie curae malesuada. Dignissim lacus convallis massa mauris enim mattis magnis senectus montes mollis taciti phasellus accumsan bibendum semper blandit suspendisse faucibus nibh metus lobortis morbi cras magna vivamus per risus fermentum. Dapibus imperdiet praesent magnis ridiculus congue gravida curabitur sagittis enim magna netus inceptos iaculis sodales parturient.
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Your H3 headline can go here
Suscipit taciti primis tempor sagittis euismod libero facilisi aptent elementum felis blandit cursus gravida sociis eleifend lectus nullam dapibus netus feugiat. Curae fringilla porttitor quam sollicitudin iaculis aptent leo ligula euismod dictumst penatibus mauris eros etiam praesent volutpat posuere. Metus fringilla ullamcorper odio aliquam lacinia conubia mauris tempor etiam ultricies proin quisque lectus sociis tristique integer phasellus inceptos taciti cras pretium enim adipiscing praesent lobortis morbi cras magna vivamus.
One’s destination is never a place, but a new way of seeing things. – Henry Miller
Pretium lorem primis senectus habitasse lectus scelerisque donec ultricies tortor adipiscing fusce morbi volutpat pellentesque consectetur risus molestie curae malesuada. Dignissim lacus convallis massa mauris enim mattis magnis senectus montes mollis taciti phasellus accumsan bibendum semper blandit suspendisse faucibus nibh metus lobortis morbi cras magna vivamus per risus fermentum. Dapibus imperdiet praesent magnis ridiculus congue gravida curabitur sagittis enim magna netus inceptos iaculis sodales parturient.
