Get the Book: Empty Nest Awakening

Finding Purpose in the Empty Nest:

Ruthie's journey began with the realization that her big family dreams were transitioning into an empty nest. This prompted her to rediscover her love for writing and mentoring young moms, laying the foundation for her future endeavors.

A Shift to Profitable Ventures:

Guided by her husband's advice, Ruthie recognized the importance of valuing her time. This led her to the world of Instagram marketing, where she not only managed accounts for others but eventually transitioned into coaching. Her authenticity and passion for helping others shine through in her work.

The Empty Nest Awakening:

Prompted by divine inspiration, she crowdsourced ideas from her followers as she dove into writing her book. The theme of authenticity in business shines bright as she recounts her journey. Though her book contains her own story it is also a guide for readers to reflect on their journey of empty-nesting, complete with thought-provoking questions at the end of each chapter.

Impactful Feedback:

What surprised Ruthie the most was the positive feedback from readers, particularly their appreciation for the self-reflective questions. It reaffirmed the importance of authenticity in connecting with others.

Encouragement for Empty-Nesters:

Ruthie's advice for those navigating the empty nest phase is to return to their roots, rediscover passions, and embrace new learning experiences. It's a time for personal growth, exploration, and joy in the second half of life.

Contributing to Church Preparation:

Empty-nesters, according to Ruthie, can play a vital role in preparing the church for the harvest. By sharing their stories and messages on social media and online platforms, they contribute to the broader narrative of faith and growth. We all have a story to tell and in today's world, we have ample opportunities to share it with others.

Connect with Ruthie:

Ruthie Gray's journey is an inspiring reminder that life's transitions can lead to new and fulfilling chapters. As she continues to empower others through her work, her story serves as a beacon of hope and encouragement for those seeking authenticity and purpose in their own lives.

• Website: Authentic Online Marketing

• Instagram: Ruthie_Gray_Author

• Book: Empty Nest Awakening

• Podcast: Authentic Online Marketing

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This episode was originally published on effectiveministrysolutions.com/episode043

Free Download: Six First Steps for Launching a Podcast by Wren Robbins

Jacklin interviews Wren Robbins, a podcast coach who helps Christian women business owners launch their podcasts with strategies for growth. Wren shared her journey from being a kindergarten teacher to a podcast coach, emphasizing the importance of her teaching background in breaking down complex concepts. Wren also mentioned her unique coaching approach, which involves caring for her clients and providing creative and easy-to-follow guidance.

Wren highlighted the benefits of starting a podcast, particularly for those in ministry or business. She emphasized the reach a podcast could provide, citing statistics and personal success stories of individuals in the ministry who had started podcasts.

Wren explained the concept of Parkinson's law and its relevance to time management, especially in the context of a podcast. She emphasized that, if one has a specific amount of time dedicated to a task, they can complete it within that timeframe. She then moved on to discuss the six initial steps for creating a podcast, which include: setting a goal, choosing a dynamic title, creating readable artwork, acquiring necessary equipment, securing a hosting site, and creating a trailer for the podcast. (Link to free download detailing these steps.)

They both agreed that a podcast could help a church reach more people and establish a deeper connection with its members. Wren shared the example of a pastor and his wife who started a podcast, which provided additional teaching and helped build community.

Wren discussed her upcoming "Flight" Podcast Group Program, which is set to launch in the first week of March. The program, structured into weekly steps with homework, is designed to help participants launch their podcast within 10 weeks. Wren emphasized the benefits of the program, such as the supportive launch team and the ability to enjoy the holiday season without worrying about the podcast. They also mentioned a free discovery call to ensure potential participants fit the group well.

Wren Robbins is a Podcast Coach who helps Christian women business owners launch their podcasts with strategy for business growth. She is the creator of the Flight Podcast Group Program and will launch her 3rd Flight group and her monthly membership in January 2024. What sets Wren apart most is caring and praying for her clients, her creative and easy to follow coaching, and her confident encouragement.

Website: https://wrenrobbins.com

For more info on her Flight podcast group program that is launching the first of January!

http://www.wrenrobbins.com/bookacall

Don't Wing it Podcast http://www.wrenrobbins.com/dontwingit

Free Download: Six First Steps for Launching a Podcast

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This episode was originally published on effectiveministrysolutions.com/episode042

Jacklin reflected on the past year and shared her plans for the upcoming year, which include changes and potential for growth in her podcast, focusing on individual and group coaching for Christian business women and women in ministry. She also shared some personal insights and encouraged listeners to join her on this new journey.

Jacklin shared her plans to shift focus toward individual and group coaching for Christian business women and women in ministry. Her passion is to help them navigate the complexities of managing a home, running a business, and focusing on spiritual growth.

Jacklin also shared some personal insights, including her 28-year marriage, her role as a mother and grandmother, her & her husband's love for classic cars, and how she focuses on a specific morning routine that includes journaling. She concluded by inviting listeners to join her on this new journey in 2024.

Jacklin expressed her excitement for the future and the potential for growth and discovery. She highlighted the importance of connecting with more like-minded individuals, particularly Christian coaches, and shared her joy in meeting new people. Jacklin also promoted her coaching services, upcoming day-retreat, and social media platforms. She concluded with a prayer for listeners, wishing them a prosperous and hopeful 2024.

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Learn the art of asking the right questions to identify your community's needs and foster meaningful partnerships.

Welcome to another episode of "Preparing the Church for the Harvest," where we equip ministry leaders with insights and strategies to impact their communities.

Jump Start Guide to Vision Planning

Ministry Planning Workshop

Questions to ask when planning a community outreach ministry:

What is your goal in reaching out to the community?

What needs does the community have?

Who do we need to talk to?

Is anyone providing for these needs?

Is there another organization we need to partner with?

How will you measure success?

Vision Planning Workshop

To help you apply these principles in your ministry, we invite you to our upcoming Vision Planning Workshop. This workshop will provide you with practical tools and guidance to assess your community's needs, develop a vision, and create an effective ministry plan. Join us in our mission to make a positive difference in your community.

Jump Start Guide to Vision Planning

Ministry Planning Workshop

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This episode was originally published on https://www.effectiveministrysolutions.com/episode040

Full Circle Ministry Planning Workshop: Full Circle Ministry Planning

Getting to Know Kendra:

• Kendra shares her background, having been raised in the Midwest, moving to Colorado after college, meeting her husband, and eventually settling in Angleton, Texas.

• Her career as a graphic designer has seamlessly merged with her passion for ministry through Scripture Flips.

• Kendra emphasizes the importance of daily time in the Word as a Christian leader, highlighting its role in keeping her spiritually healthy.

Origins of Scripture Flips:

• The journey begins with a phone call from a desperate friend, sparking Kendra's determination to create a tangible tool for women facing challenging seasons.

• Kendra describes the inception of Scripture Flips as a divine calling, guided by her graphic design skills and the inspiration of the Holy Spirit.

• Her favorite scripture, Proverbs 3:5-6, serves as a foundational element in her life and the business.

Challenges and Joys:

• Kendra reflects on the joys of receiving testimonies from women who have been touched and helped by Scripture Flips.

• The creative process of developing new collections is a fulfilling aspect of her work.

• Challenges include the logistical aspects of running a product business, managing inventory, and the time-consuming nature of marketing.

• Kendra shares a significant struggle during her first trade show, where she was sick for two and a half months but learned to trust and lay her concerns before the Lord.

Behind the Scenes:

• Kendra details the production process, from initially doing everything herself to now having a team of women assisting in the assembly.

• The product creation takes place through contract work, allowing team members to work from their homes.

Expanding Reach:

• Scripture Flips started as a direct-to-consumer business and later expanded to the wholesale market, reaching over 200 shops in the U.S.

• Kendra expresses her support for local retailers, listing them on her website's "Shop Local" tab to foster collaboration rather than competition.

Innovations in Scripture Flips:

• Kendra introduces a new aspect of Scripture Flips – an AudioFlip that allows users to listen to Scriptures along with background music, enhancing the overall experience.

• The AudioFlip aims to minister differently to individuals, offering comfort and strength through the spoken word.

Preparing the Church for the Harvest:

• Kendra sees Scripture Flips as a tool to help individuals focus on the Lord during challenging seasons, building their faith and equipping them to minister to others.

• The product serves as a ministry tool, enabling believers to share their faith and experiences effectively, especially in workplaces or personal circles.

• Kendra emphasizes the potential impact of Scripture Flips in preparing the church for the harvest, planting seeds of truth, and providing a tangible reminder of God's Word in times of need.

Kendra Conkle, the woman behind this amazing brand, is a graphic designer who lives in Angleton, Texas. Combining her mad design skills and her heart to encourage women, the Flip was launched in 2016. Scripture Flips was born from Kendra's idea to create a product that focuses on one topic in scripture, at a time. These small, high-quality books make a big impact and are loved by people of all ages. It's no wonder her customers agree that they make amazing gifts. Giving someone a tool to help them grow spiritually IS pretty awesome!

Currently, there are 13 Flip topics available, but Kendra has several more in the works. She has also expanded her product offering to include matching Journals, Jotters, Bundles, Coffee Mugs, and Tumblers. Something else you may want to know is that a portion of all sales is given back to a ministry called Refuge for Women. This organization helps women who have escaped from sex trafficking to build a new life with Christ at the center. Through this opportunity, you are helping to share the Gospel with these survivors.

Connect with Kendra:

Website: Scripture Flips

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/scriptureflips

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scriptureflips

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Full Circle Ministry Planning Workshop: Full Circle Ministry Planning

This episode was originally published on effectiveministrysolutions.com/episode039

Get the Vision Planning Guide for Ministries

Full Circle Ministry Planning Workshop: Full Circle Ministry Planning

Embark on a new ministry journey: Pray for guidance, craft a strategic plan, identify needs, assemble a dedicated team, recruit volunteers, embrace change, and replace the old.

Start with Prayer

We want to always begin our journey with prayer. Seek divine guidance and wisdom as you lead your ministry through the discernment process and through the changes. Prayer provides strength and inspiration, helping you to navigate this new era of ministry.

Making a Plan

The importance of having a clear plan cannot be overstated. Your plan should encompass your ministry's vision, mission, and specific objectives. Consider strategies for adapting to the shifting landscape, whether it's reimagining community outreach or implementing innovative approaches.

Identifying Needs

Let's identify what your ministry needs to thrive in this ever-evolving environment. It could be technology, additional staff training, or financial resources to invest in new initiatives. Knowing your needs will help ensure your plan is both realistic and attainable.

Involving the Right People

You can't do this alone. Gather a team of dedicated individuals who share your vision and bring a range of skills to the table. Your team might include staff members, volunteers, or experts in areas like technology, marketing, or event planning.

Volunteer Recruitment

Volunteers are the lifeblood of any ministry. Determine how many volunteers you'll need to support your initiatives. Consider their skillsets, availability, and how they can contribute to your ministry's growth. Provide training and clear roles and responsibilities for your volunteers.

Embracing Change and Replacing the Old

Reflect on the necessity of change. Are you implementing new practices because old ones no longer serve your ministry effectively in this evolving landscape? Be open to replacing outdated processes or traditions that no longer align with your goals or your community's needs. Recruit volunteers from any ministry you are considering retiring. Get them involved and on board with the new vision.

To assist you on this journey, we're excited to offer our "Vision Planning Guide for Ministries." This comprehensive resource provides a step-by-step approach to developing a strategic vision for your ministry, setting clear objectives, and effectively implementing your plan.

Don't miss this opportunity to lead your ministry to new heights in this evolving world. Embrace change, lead with purpose, and watch your ministry flourish.

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Full Circle Ministry Planning Workshop: Full Circle Ministry Planning

This episode was originally published on effectiveministrysolutions.com/episode038

Download the Evaluating Ministries Worksheets

Sign up for the Ministry Planning Workshop

Welcome to episode 37. Today, we'll dive deep into the crucial process of evaluating your current ministry programs. We'll explore what's working, what's not, and why it's essential to ensure your congregation is well-nourished before extending your reach.

What Is Working?

We start by identifying the areas where your ministry is thriving. These are the spaces where you're witnessing positive results, community engagement, and the fulfillment of your mission. Make a list of the programs that are truly bearing fruit and contributing to spiritual growth and community well-being.

Where Are You Seeing Fruit?

Pay close attention to the areas where you're seeing tangible results, whether that's transformed lives, increased attendance, or deeper community bonds. These fruitful ministries are a testament to the alignment of your efforts with your mission and vision.

Are You Feeding Your People?

One of the most critical questions to ask is whether your current programs are effectively nourishing your congregation. Are they providing the support, guidance, and spiritual nourishment needed for growth? A ministry should be a source of sustenance for your people, both spiritually and emotionally.

Are You Trying to Reach People You Don't Have?

While expanding your reach is admirable, it's vital to ensure your existing congregation is well-cared for. Trying to reach new people while neglecting your current members is like feeding the neighbors' kids while your own children go hungry.

How to Evaluate Your Ministries:

Here's a practical guide to evaluating your ministries:

1. Make a List: Create a comprehensive list of your current programs outside of regular services.

2. Evaluate how long each program has been in operation and whether it's still relevant and effective.

3. Assess the spiritual impact and growth potential of each ministry. Where are you seeing fruit?

4. Examine whether these ministries are growing in numbers and/or spiritual depth.

5. Determine if your current programs require more resources than they're worth.

Next Steps:

If your evaluation reveals that some of your programs are not effectively nurturing your congregation or that they require more resources than they bring in, it may be time to consider making changes. In our next episode, we'll discuss strategies for starting new ministries that align with your mission and vision, ensuring you can effectively reach both your existing members and those you aspire to welcome.

As a ministry leader, it's essential to regularly assess your programs to ensure they align with your mission and vision, bear fruit, and effectively nurture your congregation spiritually. Take the time to make a list, evaluate each program, and consider whether changes are needed. The health of your congregation and the impact of your ministry depend on it.

Thank you for joining us on "Preparing the Church for the Harvest." If you found this episode valuable, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with fellow ministry leaders. Stay tuned for our next episode, where we'll explore starting new ministries to enhance your outreach while ensuring your congregation is well-fed.

Download the Evaluating Ministries Worksheets

Sign up for the Ministry Planning Workshop

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This episode was originally published on effectiveministrysolutions.com/episode037

Our goal is to empower you to be more effective in your administrative tasks, so you can focus on the most important work of kingdom building. Let's explore the essential tools that will make your ministry more efficient and impactful.

Quick Links:

• Ministry Management Binder
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• Episode 035

1: Website

A well-designed website can serve as a hub for your community, providing information, resources, and engagement opportunities. In today's society nearly every new visitor will research your church online before ever setting foot inside the door. Therefore your address, service times, and phone numbers should be clear. Images of services, classes, and events are very helpful.

2: Digital Calendars

Managing your ministry's events and appointments can be a complex task. Digital calendars can be a LIFESAVER. It can help you streamline every department's schedule while giving the freedom to staff and leaders to update events and add important information. I mentioned in the last episode that Google Calendar is my personal favorite.

3. Online File Storage and Sharing

Centralized document management is a game-changer for ministries. It is convenient, efficient, and organized. Say goodbye to scattered documents and having to dig through file cabinets! There are many systems to choose from but if you are already using Gmail or Google Calendar then you also have access to Google Drive.

4: Virtual Meetings

In 2020, everyone got a crash course in conducting and attending virtual meetings. Zoom quickly became a household function. During this time, ministries realized what an asset this piece of technology is. Especially for ministries that extend beyond one community. It is a great way to have face-to-face meetings without leaving the comfort of your home or office.

5. Social Media

This one might be a bit controversial still, however, social media is a powerful tool for ministry outreach. This is much information out there on how to manage social media. You can learn strategies for engaging and growing your ministry's online presence, complete with examples, sample templates, and tips for reaching the demographics in your area. There are even "social media managers" who you can hire to help with this. If your church does not have some type of social media presence, you are missing out on the best free advertisement and marketing strategy.

6. Digital Newsletters and Email Marketing

Email marketing remains a key channel for engaging your congregation and supporters. This is a great way to communicate upcoming events, share words of testimony, and encourage the flock. There are several email platforms available and this is something else that a church management software might provide. Two common stand-alone email platforms are MailChimp and Constant Contact. This is a great way to generate a digital newsletter. This is another way to engage with your congregation and help them feel connected.

7: Project Management Software

Project and team management are crucial for efficient ministry operation. My favorite tool for this is Trello. I talked about how I personally use Trello in the last episode if you want to jump back and listen to it. Ministries can use this to track visitor follow-up, enlist and train volunteers, and plan the upcoming staff party or Christmas Play. You can share your "Trello Boards" with others on your team so that you can collaborate together. You can assign tasks to people on your team and check off when things get done on the list. You can also assign due dates and set reminders. I have used this method for planning several conferences and women's retreats. There, of course, are a plethora of other systems available that you can check out. Keeping projects and teams on track is a challenging task and I am all for finding ways to do that more efficiently. In fact, several years ago, I created the "Ministry Management Binder". I have a physical printable version that can be put in a binder and I have a digital version on a Trello Board. Or you can get both at a discounted price.

8: Online Giving

It is a fact that churches that had an online giving option during the Covid pandemic saw less of a decline in finances than those who did not. Online giving has become more and more accepted as most of the younger generation pays their bills online and doesn't carry cash or checks. There are many options for receiving offerings online and I am not going to recommend one over another. Choose a platform that is easy to use for individuals and for the church. If it integrates with your accounting software that is a huge plus. This may require a little research to pick the one that fits best. I would start by asking what others in your community and organization have had success with. There is also a feature called text-to-give. You can do a quick search to find out more about that as well.

9: Accounting Software

Effective financial management is a cornerstone of ministry success. Using an accounting software can make life so much better. When I first started out as a church secretary (more years ago than I care to admit) it was all on paper! I transitioned to an Excel spreadsheet and eventually switched to QuickBooks. Now there are systems created just for churches and ministries. Let me just say that when I started out, it took me DAYS to tally up all the end-of-year contribution statements. Now they can be printed off in minutes! Having an efficient system will allow you so much more time to do more productive work. Now, I mentioned QuickBooks but there are several systems available that you can choose from.

10: All-In-One Solution with Church Management Software

Last but definitely not least is an all-in-one Church Management Software. These systems provide a comprehensive solution for ministry administration. Combining several of the aforementioned tools can streamline administrative tasks and enhance member engagement. These can offer a combination of calendars, file storage, email marketing, accounting software, online giving, and project management. Each system is different and usually based on the needs and size of the ministry. Here is a list of the 10 Best Church Management Systems for Small Churches published by theleadpastor.com.

We have explored 10 tools that can supercharge your ministry and its effectiveness. Leveraging these tools will enable you to streamline your administrative tasks, leaving you with more time to focus on the most critical aspect of ministry—kingdom building.

In such uncertain times, it is imperative that we stay on task and be about the Father's business. Administrative tasks may seem unimportant to many, however, it is like a well-oiled machine. When things don't run smoothly, systems begin to break down. So if you are in an administrative position, I want you to remember that this IS a calling. Not everyone can do what you are doing. It IS important. You ARE needed. If you can get organized and create systems you are helping to keep things running smoothly.

You can probably tell that I am very passionate about helping those in administrative positions. If you are stuck, need help, or want to brainstorm some ideas, reach out to me and let's chat!

Schedule a Zoom call to chat!

Ministry Management Binder

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This episode was originally published on effectiveministrysolutions.com/episode036

Discover my top 10 organizational tools for a more efficient and balanced life, plus I am sharing some links and freebies!

Quick Links:

Start Your Day Right Journal

Paper Planner

Rocketbook and Pens

Morning Baskets - Small or Large

Google Workspace - (Gmail, Google Calendar, Google Drive)

Trello

TidyCal

Cleaning Schedule

I'm thrilled to have you with me today because we're diving into something I'm super passionate about – organization! You know me, I'm all about helping you grow individually and in your ministries. Today, I'm spilling the beans on my top 10 organizational tools that have been game-changers for me, and I can't wait to share them with you. So, let's jump right in!"

1. Google Calendar: A Digital Lifesaver

Google Calendar is a digital calendar tool that syncs across all your devices, ensuring you never miss an appointment or deadline. You can set reminders, color-code events, and even share calendars with colleagues or family members. Its seamless integration with Gmail and other Google apps makes it a powerhouse for staying organized.

2. Paper Planner: Balancing Digital and Analog

There's something uniquely satisfying about physically writing down your tasks and goals. A paper planner allows you to create a tangible connection with your plans. Use it to jot down daily to-do lists, set monthly goals, and track your progress. It's the perfect complement to digital tools for a well-rounded organizational approach.

3. Trello: Your Virtual Taskmaster

Trello is a versatile project management tool that uses boards, lists, and cards to help you organize tasks and collaborate with others. Whether you're managing a personal project or coordinating with a team, Trello's drag-and-drop interface and customizable features make it an indispensable tool for boosting productivity.

4. Rocketbook: Sustainability Meets Note-Taking

Rocketbook is a reusable notebook that combines the tactile pleasure of handwriting with digital convenience. Write notes, scan them with your smartphone, and wipe the pages clean for reuse. It's an eco-friendly solution that ensures you never run out of pages and can access your notes from anywhere.

5. Morning Basket: Kickstart Your Day Right

The Morning Basket is a physical or digital container where you gather materials for your morning routine. It helps you start your day with intention by including items like a journal, gratitude list, devotionals, or affirmations. Creating a Morning Basket ritual sets a positive tone for the day ahead.

6. Journal: Reflection and Growth

Journaling is a powerful practice for self-reflection, personal growth, and staying organized. Whether you're journaling about your day, setting goals, or expressing your thoughts and emotions, a journal is a safe space to capture your journey and maintain clarity in your life.

7. Google Drive: Cloud-Based Organization

Google Drive is a cloud storage and file-sharing platform. It allows you to store documents, photos, and files securely in the cloud, ensuring you can access them from any device with an internet connection. Collaborate with others in real-time and organize your digital life effortlessly.

8. Gmail - Schedule Emails: Stay Ahead in Communication

Gmail's email scheduling feature is a hidden gem. You can compose an email and schedule it to be sent at a later date and time. This is incredibly useful for managing communication across different time zones or ensuring your messages reach recipients at the most opportune moment.

9. Tidycal: Meeting Coordination Made Easy

Tidycal simplifies the process of scheduling meetings and events. It eliminates the back-and-forth of finding a suitable time by providing an intuitive interface where participants can select their preferred time slots. It's a time-saving tool that streamlines coordination efforts.

10. Cleaning Schedule: Keeping Order in Life

A cleaning schedule might not sound glamorous, but it's a fundamental tool for maintaining order in your home or workspace. By setting a routine for cleaning tasks, you ensure that nothing gets overlooked, and your environment remains organized and inviting.

These top 10 organizational tools cater to various aspects of your life, from time management and project coordination to personal growth and maintaining a clean living space. Incorporate these tools into your daily routine, and you'll find yourself more organized, efficient, and ready to tackle your goals.

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http://effectiveministrysolutions.com/episode035

Discover the impact of morning routines and the 'Start Your Day Right' Challenge for a transformative start to your day.

Today I want to introduce you to 3 ladies: Sally, Gabby, and Nancy.

Sleepy Sally

Sally's alarm is going off again and she's already hit the snooze twice. She has to get up and get ready for work. Sally slept through her morning alone time again. She wants to start her day with the Lord but now she's gonna have to pray on the way to work and maybe read a few scriptures in her Bible app as she waits in the drive-thru to get coffee. Sally tells herself - It's not ideal but it's better than nothing right?

Maybe next Monday she'll try getting up earlier to actually sit down and have her coffee with Jesus time.

Good Intentions Gabby

Gabby only hit the snooze once this morning then jumped up to get ready. She starts the coffee brewing and then gets ready for her day. Dressed. Makeup done. Hair fixed. Okay, Gabby grabs her coffee, Bible, and notebook and sits down to have her alone time with the Lord. She's been trying really hard to make this happen and here she is. Gabby sits down at the table, opens up her Bible to a random page and begins to read. Then she decides she better set an alarm for when she needs to leave because she might get so immersed she loses track of time. Then she checks the notifications on her phone and sees 15 new emails, someone tagged her in something on FB, and her favorite tik-tocker just posted a new video. Nope. Nope. Not doing it. She sets her phone down and turns back to the scripture. Where was I? Gabby rereads the verse she just read and moves on to the next one. Her mind begins to wander and now is thinking about what to cook for dinner. She realizes she needs to pick up some groceries today and begins to make a list on her phone. Next thing she knows her alarm is going off…it's time to leave and Gabby realizes she went from her grocery list to Facebook and lost track of time as she caught up on what everyone else was doing. She feels awful that she got distracted and lost track of time but she has to head off to work.

Noble Nancy

Nancy sets her alarm so that she wakes up an hour before everyone else. She gets up with the first alarm, quietly brushes her teeth then heads to the kitchen. She set the timer on the coffee pot the night before so it is brewed and ready to be poured into her favorite mug. Nancy settles in at the kitchen table in front of the window where she can hear the birds chirping. She has her morning basket that contains everything she needs. Her Bible, journal, devotional book, and planner.

She sets her phone to do not disturb so she is not distracted by notifications of incoming emails or social media posts. Nancy spends about 5 minutes enjoying her coffee, listening to the birds, and allowing herself time to be fully awake. She remembers her friend's husband is having some tests run today and she jots his name down in her journal so she remembers to pray over him. She is also very aware of how grateful she is that she has overcome sickness in her own life. She writes a quick note in her journal as she thanks the Lord for touching her life and healing her body. Nancy opens up her Bible to Jeremiah which is where she has been reading this week. She comes to verse 29:11. God has a plan for her life. She takes a minute to write that verse in her journal and asks the Lord to show her His plan for her life. It's been a bit of a mess lately and she could sure use some direction. She remembers the book idea she had before she got sick. Maybe it's time to start writing again. She makes a note in her journal to schedule some writing time. She draws her attention back to the next scripture and reads for a while more, pondering on the words as she reads them and making notes of words that stand out to her. Nancy's alarm beeps softly to remind her she has 15 minutes left. She pulls out her calendar, schedules some writing time for that week, and sets a reminder on her phone to check on her friend that afternoon. Nancy spends the remainder of her time in prayer and continues to stay in an attitude of prayer and thanksgiving as she begins to get ready for her day.

Introducing the "Start Your Day Right" Challenge

"As we've explored the morning routines of Sally, Gabby, and Nancy, it's clear that how we begin our day shapes our mindset, focus, and spiritual connection.

If you've found yourself relating to any of these scenarios, I have an exciting opportunity for you. I'd like to introduce you to the 'Start Your Day Right' Challenge—a transformative journey designed to elevate your mornings and deepen your connection on your spiritual journey.

This challenge offers a structured approach to cultivating a mindful morning routine, aligning with your spiritual goals, and creating space for a positive atmosphere.

It's an invitation to embark on a journey of positive transformation alongside a community of like-minded individuals. So, are you ready to take the first step toward a more intentional and purposeful morning routine? Let's dive into what the 'Start Your Day Right' Challenge has to offer and how it can make a significant difference in your daily life."

Go to EffectiveMinistrySolutions.com/Start

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