Beginnings

How ironic! or is it?

Today I started the new BSF (Bible Study Fellowship) year and we're studying Genesis, which starts "In the beginning..."

Genesis means: "The origin or mode of formation of something." Some synonyms are: origin - birth - rise - provenance - origination.

So, this week when I finally decide to get my life in order, to begin forming new habits, God has me begin the book of Genesis. Genesis--the book which includes the birth of (or beginning of):

--the world
--life
--creation
--relationships
--language
--cultures
--government
--sin
--redemption
--grace

The list could go on and on. It's a book involving new things beginning. Isn't that what I'm trying to do? Begin something new? Ironic? Or does God simply have a sense of humor with me? I seem to think so.

My ears perked up when my BSF lecturer said, "God stepped in [at the garden], and is repairing/CLEANING US UP from sin--bringing ORDER FROM DISORDER." Wow! I get it! That's exactly what I'm trying to do: bring order from disorder into my life. However, I know I can never do it apart from God. He brings order to my chaotic world. He brings order to my schedule. He brings order to my relationships. He brings order to my habits.  He brings order to my home. All I have to do is submit and surrender my will to His. Hmmm---I don't always make it that simple.

So, that's where I am, at the beginning of this journey. I'm not sure how long it will take, but I'm determined to complete it--to completely clean house--to change my life and my habits for the better. However, I need to stop and remember: I can't do this alone; I need help. And then I need to never forget where my help comes from.

Psalm 18:1-3:

"I love you, O Lord, my strength.

The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer;  

my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge.  

He is my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.  

I call to the Lord, who is worthy of praise,  

and I am saved from my enemies."

So, are you ready to begin? If you want to join me in this walk together--to clean house--let me know. I'd love to have some feedback of those who are taking this journey with me.

And on a side note: Yesterday was a GREAT day of getting things done! woo hoo! I stuck to the plan I had. In cleaning out a box that I'd placed in the bottom of my closet 5 years ago (gasp!), I found $7.62. Who knew that cleaning would be profitable!? Can't wait to see what I find next! =)

Interested in finding out more about BSF? Here's the website:

www.bsfinternational.org