Sunday Musings - Own Your Life

In the Spring issue of Life: Beautiful Magazine, I saw a review for Sally Clarkson's new book, Own Your Life: Living with Deep Intention, Bold Faith, and Generous Love. I picked up a copy at the library a few weeks later. I had checked out quite a few books from the library when I picked this book up; luckily our library allows a one time online renewal option. However, I was only halfway through the book when the second due date arrived . . . so, I did something I rarely do. I kept the book and finished it anyway, paying the $1 fine when I turned it in four days later.

This Christian non-fiction book contains advice for living an abundant life, not settling for mediocrity, mapping out our purpose, giving God control, changing our attitudes and actions, and living well to leave a legacy. I especially liked the author's admonition to "live with intention."

The following description of faith from the book reminds me that while my faith in the Lord alone is all that's needed to attain the reward of eternity in heaven, there's still work to be done in this lifetime.

Faith is a mysterious process of following the voice of God, accompanied by hard work and wisdom.

I was particularly drawn to her descriptions of a home. Here's one example:

Home is the haven of INSPIRATION, where the art of life is expressed and taught. Color is strewn into every corner; delectable food is tasted; fine art, books, and beauty are strategically placed throughout the scenery of its rooms and walls.

Each chapter ended with a section titled "Own Your Part," which included exercises and questions to help apply the topic to our own life.

Think about the legacy you are leaving behind - even now, as well as after your life on earth is over. Are you content with what you imagine it will be? Can you identify any areas of your life that you would like to build into in order to leave a more godly heritage?

There were actually a lot more thought-provoking quotes and exercises that I marked with sticky notes throughout the book. In fact, I'd like to re-read this book and work through some of the suggested exercises at the end of each chapter, so I've added it to my list of books to purchase.

Have you read anything lately that's filled with thought-provoking ideas?