Refreshed by joy.

Hi friends! Merry Christmas! Eeeeek :) It's three sleeps to go! Well, I hope you have had a great week. Don't you just love this time of year so much? :) What's the most Christmassy thing you have done this season so far? 

Sooo my last post was on "Just chase the one rabbit", and you know what... I have taken my own advice. Yep. Rather than chasing a million rabbits and trying to get a zillion projects done, (and actually getting nothing done in the end!) last week I put everything else on hold and focused on one rabbit. And the rabbit I focused on was this little project... These ANYTHING CAN HAPPEN prints. And honestly, the only reason I was able to get them done amidst all the busyness of this time of year... was because I was able to focus on one thing. ;) Look how shiny they are!

Pretty beautiful hey :) So I have been a busy little bee this past week, processing orders and getting them out before Christmas. (More info coming soon (with pics!) on the printing process!) (PS: to order these prints see below). How about you, do you think you are able to cut back on the rabbits you are chasing? Let me tell you, there is LOTS more joy when we are focused on one thing at a time.

And speaking of joy, I recently noticed an article I wrote last year for Christian Woman Magazine on their website again this month. It's all about keeping our joy at this time. So I thought I would share it with you all today. Hope you have fun reading it :) xo

... REFRESHED BY JOY THIS CHRISTMAS ...

By Natalie Box

My family and friends know that by the time September hits, the Christmas season has pretty much begun for me. While other people are thinking about school holidays and sport, I’m already beginning to dream about decorations, gift ideas, Christmas parties and perhaps even playing some Christmas music (secretly of course). I just love the feeling of Christmas. Do you know what I mean? It’s that magical excitement that stirs when decorations start to appear in stores. Gifts are bought and wrapped, trees are trimmed, Christmas movies are watched and candles are lit (Christmas scented of course). However, even though these things do bring great joy, my favourite part of Christmas is celebrating the joy bringer himself. 

“For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given … and he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace”. (Isaiah 9:6, NLT). The weight of hope that flows through these words carries truth and life. Here we find ourselves in a season where miraculous hope has suddenly invaded descended upon our planet. The whole world is looking to Jesus! However, despite the reality of this abundant hope, sometimes rather than overflowing with joy, we can actually become overwhelmed by busyness. Ticking off to do lists, sticking to (or going over) budgets, and watching our December calendar fill up right before our very eyes, all become the focus of our attention. All of a sudden we’ve boarded the train to “anxious-ville” and we can’t wait for Christmas to be over. What? Seriously! How crazy is that?!

But good news, this is not what our heavenly Dad has for us. Stress is not his will for our life. Instead of anxiousness and fear; peace, rest and joy are his gifts to us this season. Even as you read this article, I pray that his refreshing presence would wash over you, bringing life to your soul. The word ‘refresh’ means, “to give new strength or energy to; to reinvigorate” (Oxford Dictionary). However if you think about it with reference to a computer, ‘refresh’ means, “to reload and create an updated version of a website” (Merriam-Webster Dictionary). God wants to reload us with strength, renew our minds, and refresh us with joy this season.

God is into exchanges. He loves taking our mess and replacing it with order. When he presses ‘refresh’; everything else fades away, and rest, hope, peace and joy come. In the midst of a flurry of to do lists, deadlines and appointments, joy is what he has for you. When it’s noisy, he gives you quiet. When things are moving too fast, he stills your soul. His promise for you today is, “I will lead you to quiet waters and restore your soul” (Psalm 23:2-3). Here are some ways you can be refreshed by joy this season.

5 WAYS TO BE REFRESHED BY JOY THIS CHRISTMAS SEASON:

1. Stop and remember.

What an incredible day that was, when hope entered the world. The finest of plans, meticulously set in place from the foundations of the earth, finally ready to come to pass. Stop and remember. That day, a waiting world watched. A Father’s generosity was poured out. And a Saviour came for the joy set before him. That’s you. What a reason to celebrate!

2. Instead of being overwhelmed, trust.

Worrying never helps the situation. Even though it feels like it’s helping, it’s not. Choose to consciously turn your affection towards him, despite feeling overwhelmed. In an instant his presence comes. “Trust God from the bottom of your heart; don’t try to figure out everything on your own. Listen for (his) voice in everything you do, everywhere you go; he’s the one who will keep you on track.” (Prov 3:5-6, MSG)

3. Rest in his presence.

All it takes is one moment in his presence. “In his presence is joyful abundance!” (Psalm 16:11, ISV). He is always there waiting with so much goodness for you.  The second you turn your affection to him; the connection is instant. This season, his joy changes everything. And he’s waiting right now with a fresh batch for you.

4. Cultivate thankfulness.

Thankfulness releases the miraculous. When you begin to thank God for the blessings around you, big or small, your perspective changes and hope invades. God says to you, “Come up here, and I will show you what must take place after this.” (Rev 4:1) Instead of being overwhelmed by small thinking, let thankfulness elevate you to a place where joy abounds.

5. Have fun… It’s Christmas!

Think about kids. They don’t do anything unless it’s fun. So, it’s time for you to have some fun. Sometimes as adults we think we’re “too old” to really get into all the celebrations. Well I am here to tell you that you have permission to have fun this Christmas! So get ready because guess what… it’s the most wonderful time of the year!

So right now, take a deep breath. Breathe in his presence. Rest in his love and be encouraged. You are doing an amazing job and I am cheering you on! God bless you and Merry Christmas.  Remember to expect surprises... because anything can happen. ;)

Have a beautiful day guys! This is me bursting with excitement putting together my first orders :) If you would like to order these prints for $25 each (regular mail) or $30 each (express post in time for Christmas) simply email natalie@thewritersink.com.au to place your order :)

Love you guys lots!!

Love Nat xox

Images 3-7 via Pinterest

Anything Can Happen ~ Book Sneak Peek { Keep focusing on it. }

Happy Tuesday or Wednesday wherever you are in the world! :) How's your week been? It's officially Fall in NYC and it's is so lovely. We have had a few warm days sprinkled in (which I love of course) but now I understand what locals say when they "love New York in the Fall". Beautiful sunny days, without the horrible humidity, but instead an edge of fresh, crisp air. I've been writing my little heart out... for those who don't know I am here in New York writing my book... "Anything Can Happen". It's coming along well but to be really honest with you, I have been feeling a little overwhelmed these past few weeks! Writing takes time and I really want to make sure I am getting God's heart as I write. The creative process is so beautiful, but it's so intricate; carefully crafting and piecing and weaving things together... and this takes time. So as much as I want to be productive, I want to make sure I am not rushing. But being the organised person I am, this can be difficult. (Maybe you can relate?!) When the creative flow is taking longer than planned, or other adventures and opportunities come up, I've had to really ask the Lord for his help and perspective.

Do you ever find you do that? You look at your schedule and then begin to feel totally overwhelmed when you realise you're running out of time or things are taking longer than expected? So I thought I would be honest and share my heart with you. Hopefully it brings encouragement to you to today. Out of a crazy, overwhelming day yesterday, came some beautiful inspiration for my book. Here's a little sneak peek. xo

A N Y T H I N G   C A N  H A P P E N 

{ Keep focusing on it. }

Yesterday I went to sit in Bryant Park to write. It's one of my favourite writing places, because every day they have live jazz. It's such a treat. However when I arrived I was a little bit shocked at what I saw. What was once a lush green patch of green grass, where thousands of locals and travellers normally sprawl in the sunshine, was now a construction site. How tragic! (I'm sure you can picture my face, being the lover of beauty I am. Everyone's going about their day, eating their lunch, chatting, and there's me, standing there like a goose, laptop in hand, with my mouth open as if to say, "um... people, do you guys mean to say you're okay with this?!") Then I realised what was going on. The winter ice skating rink. Ah huh. Adventure and fun was being prepared before my very eyes. But right now, in the 'in between' it was a big old mess. Now, looking back I can see such truth in that scene. Preparation for a new season always requires 'behind the scenes' work and is often messy, but it always ends in something beautiful. After this time of construction there will be a beautiful ice rink where thousands of people will come and skate with such joy.

Anyway, back to me standing there dazed with my laptop. The beautiful pianist continued to play, her gorgeous jazz standards flowing whimsically out into to the air, determined to be heard over the construction and drilling. I shrugged my shoulders and thought, "Well, the show must go on." So I found a table as close to the music as I could and plonked myself there. Have ever you been expecting one thing, but come across another? I was already feeling slightly discouraged that morning, and I when I arrived and saw this picture I felt like it was like a representation of how I was feeling inside. The scene was beautiful, the sun was shining, jazz music was playing, everyone was happy, but there was a loud banging sound intruding on this scene, distracting me from the beauty. 

But we can’t go by feelings can we? Feelings distract us from purpose and joy. So after about two hours of sulking and 'hoping' the discouragement would lift (when will I learn!), I simply asked the Lord to speak to me through his word, and he did. :) What a gift his word is. No matter what we are feeling or experiencing, the word of God cuts through it all and brings life changing hope. Reading his word awakens our spirit and shifts our thinking. It takes us up to where we are seated “heavenly places next to Jesus” bringing clarity and freedom. 

Declaring the word over ourselves in difficult situations is so powerful, because even if we can’t feel anything changing, it is. It’s alive, so the moment it comes out of our mouths it is operative, shifting and changing things. I love the Amplified version of Hebrews 4:12, “For the Word that God speaks is alive and full of power, making it active, operative, energizing, and effective.” Reading the word helps us lift our eyes and brings focus.

I’d asked God to speak to me, but my thoughts were still buzzing all over the place. Do you ever get that? So I stilled my mind, repositioned myself and listened for his voice. As soon as I did this, I heard him gently lead me to 2 Peter. My eyes almost popped out of my head when I read it! Have you ever come across piece of scripture you have never ever seen before? This was like water to my soul.

 "We couldn’t be more sure of what we saw and heard - God’s glory, God’s voice. The prophetic Word was confirmed to us. You’ll do well to keep focusing on it. It’s the one light you have in a dark time as you wait for daybreak and the rising of the Morning Star in your hearts.”
(2 Peter 1:19-20 MSG)

How true this is. We can be sure of what we have seen and heard. What are the prophetic words and promises that have been confirmed to you? It's time to stir them up because his goodness and his promises are sure. Even now as you are reading these words he is awakening things in you. Immediately after I read this I felt encouraged and strengthened, and I pray you are too. The enemy of our souls is constantly trying to discourage us so we believe nothing will ever happen. But our God is bigger and with him anything can happen. 

So don't give up my friend, whatever the dream is, keep focusing on it. Keep it in front of you. We all have days of discouragement, but we are growing in strength and wisdom every single moment. We know what he has called us to, and it's glorious!

Let these words soak in today. "We couldn't be more sure of what we have seen and heard". We are sure of what he has promised us. And to him, our journey is just as beautiful as our destination. Every day of your life is part of a giant tapestry God is weaving. And he sees it it's fullness and it's gorgeous! 

Have a beautiful day knowing I love you heaps and am cheering you on :)

Love Nat xoxo

Images 1 & 2 via Pinterest

Be kind to yourself. :)

Hello my friends! I've missed you guys... how have you been? I hope you had a Happy Easter! What a special time it was... I watched most of The Passion of The Christ on Good Friday, I watch it every year. I love to really take that time to remember what he actually did for me. Ah, it messes me up every time, but then, I guess that's the point isn't it. ;) If you haven't watched it in a while, I highly recommend it. xox

So I've got something kinda funny to share. Last night, I picked up my little beach chair and sat in the garden in the rain. Do you ever do that? Sit in the rain? In the dark? It's not really the 'normal' thing to do is it? Well anyway, I did. My initial plan was to throw the ball for the dog quickly and then come inside. But as soon as I felt the rain on my face, it was like water to my soul. Literally. :) As I sat there, head facing up, eyes closed, I was thinking, "Should I go inside? Come on, this is a bit silly. I'm getting wet here." But then I thought, "Hello, what's the worst thing that can happen? = I get wet and I put a new jumper on." So basically, in the grand scheme of things... not that bad. 

And the best thing that could happen was that I would be refreshed.

So I stayed... I just sat there in my backyard, in the dark, looking like this... 

Those little droplets of rest and refreshing were just what I needed in that exact moment.

I was refreshed when I least expected it. So imagine what can happen when we actually expect to be refreshed?! What do you need at the moment? Rest? Joy? Faith? Refreshing? Healing? A good girly chat with a bestie? Well good news...

No matter what season, no matter what we are facing, no matter how busy and overwhelmed we may feel, he is always there to restore us!

So with his voice in mind, let me encourage you today. 

1. Be kind to yourself.
Listen to your body and rest when you need to.

2. Expect to be refreshed.

Don't be so quick to dismiss surprise opportunities just because they may be 'out of the ordinary'.

3. Always listen to his leading.

Even if it is to dance in the rain!

Praying you have a beautiful day today, always listening for his voice as he cheers you on.

And a huge happy birthday to my Papa Fred who is turning 90 years old today! ;)

Love nat xox

Images - Pinterest

Lessons I learnt from my Grandma.

Yesterday we celebrated the wonderful life of my precious Grandma Beryl. She passed away on Sunday morning, her very favourite day of the week :) And now she is rejoicing in heaven. It's been quite an intense two weeks, but amidst the sadness and sorrow, I have been amazed and thankful for the precious gift of family and friends. Why is it that when we face sadness and tragedy, we just want to be surrounded by people we love? Well, it's because love heals. :) It brings truth and hope and "peace that surpasses our understanding"...  so even in the midst of a storm, LOVE will always carry us through.

...

I love that. Love bears all things. To bear = is to support or carry the weight of something, to endure an ordeal or difficulty, to hold up and remain firm under a load. My Grandma definitely loved well. She loved God with all her heart, so it flowed through to me and everyone else she knew. 

This is a little snippet of what I shared yesterday:

"I just loved being around Grandma. Whether it was for cups of tea or chats, I would always leave her house feel so encouraged, loved and filled with joy. When I was with her, it felt like time slowed down. Her love drew me there, and the busyness of life just stopped as I entered her beautiful space. 

The simplest things brought her so much joy, and she saw beauty in everything. Thinking about this has really challenged me; to see joy in the simple things, to make it a priority to always release the love of God wherever I go, and to spend as much quality time as I can  with people I love. Because do you know what? At the end of the day... loving and being loved is all that matters."

 

So, here are some of the things I have learnt from Grandma. :)

1. Don't wait until someone is 'gone' to recognise their incredible qualities. 

2. Make the most of every moment.

3. Love well and extravagantly.

4. Give generously from a pure and transformed heart.

5. Love every friend and family member as if it's the last time you'll see them.

6. Bring peace to every situation.

7. Prioritise spending quality time with loved ones.

8. Encourage others always.

9. Everyday, tell your friends and family how much you love them.

10. Take LOTS of photos.

I'm so thankful for the blessing my Grandma has been in my life. I can hardly believe it's actually true. I'm going to miss her so very much, but I know I will see her again. :)

Bless you my friends and have a wonderful day!! :)

nat x

Images - Pinterest

Joy is the Benchmark.

How's your joy level today? On a scale of 1 - 10... what number would you say it would be? 10...? 8...? Maybe lower? Well I've been thinking a lot about joy lately. I don't really think we are living up to our 'true joy potential'... and quite frankly, I want more!

So I have decided to redefine joy in my life. It's no longer a luxurious experience, enjoyed infrequently and randomly. Not no no... I have decided that joy is as normal as breathing, and there's plenty of it going around. Joy is our benchmark.

Definition of bench-mark: (n). 

'The point of reference from which a measurement may be made'. 

And everything flows from joy. :)

Joy isn't an unachievable goal hidden away from us on a top shelf somewhere. It's how God created us to live, and walk and experience life every day. It's the BENCHMARK. It's the minimum. And there's actually more available than we think...

Think about a time when you have felt overwhelmed with joy. Go through it in your mind. Have you got it?! Well that feeling... that is your normal! So start expecting it. Abundant means 'to exist in plentiful supply, to be present in great quantity, and to be abounding'. So, if God has promised us 'life more abundantly', then abundance is what it shall be!'

So what's stopping us? We need to renew our minds and change our benchmark. 

JOY is your normal from now on. And remember...

So each morning you get a brand new fresh batch. I've actually just written an article about joy in the latest edition of Christian Woman Magazine, entitled "5 Ways to Be Refreshed By Joy This Christmas"... feel free to have a little 'squiz' if you like? Have a wonderful 'joy-filled' Wednesday my friends!

7 sleeps to go.... hooray for Christmas :)

love nat xx

Images - via Pinterest

Wake with joy.

Thankfulness shifts things. Have you ever had a day where you're feeling sorry for yourself? Maybe you're sulking with your very best pout, (I'm sure none of you reading this blog have ever felt like that, he he...) then suddenly, something captures your attention. It might be something small; like tiny, pretty pink wildflowers poking out of the concrete on the side of the road, or a baby's giggle, or perhaps it might be a elderly gentleman you've helped in the supermarket. Whatever's happening, begin to thank God for it, let loose, and wait for that joy to come.

There is ALWAYS something we can be thankful for. :) Just stop, even now. Have a look around you. Have a think. Imagine not being able to see? Or hear, or walk, or live. It's almost unfathomable. We have SO much to be grateful for. What if, over the next few weeks, we purposed in our hearts to wake up each morning, and even before we open our eyes, to be thankful, and position ourselves for the day. All it takes from you is eight little words.

It's true! And what a great time of year to release our joy. Even when sometimes we might feel like we've misplaced our joy, it's not a surprise to him. He's always got more for us! "In His presence there is fullness of joy".

God is trying to get your attention today. He's got surprises for you! Will you receive them? Imagine you've prepared a gift for someone, and you're waiting excitedly for them to arrive so you can give it to them... well this is what our heavenly dad has done for us today! 

So start the day afresh now: close your eyes, 

think of something you can be thankful for... and wake with JOY.

love nat xox

Images - 1, 2, 3, 4, 5,