Pursue the Intentional Life {Book Review in Progress}

It is one thing to be creative in the artistic sense, a craftsman with paintbrush or violin or hammer; it is something else to make your life art, a thing of beauty.

~ Jean Fleming, in Pursue the Intentional Life: “Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” (Psalm 90:12)

It has been a long time since I read a Christian book. So often they are health and wealth (pray and you will become a millionaire!) or written by shiny happy Jesus people. Or moms, to which I can’t relate.

But, I have been feeling lately that I should get back into working on my spiritual life. Me and Jesus have a great relationship, but I really don’t consume much Christian media. So I decided to join the Bloom (in)courage Book Club. For once, my travel schedule wouldn’t stop me from participating in a small group!

I have only made it through about half of the book, but I plan to finish it this weekend. One of my favorite activities over our long summer camping weekends is reading. And this book demands to be savored. I have underlined SO many quotes already! I made one into a digital collage (above).

Unlike many other books, this one connected with me and is such an easy read, despite being full of meaty content.

My accomplishments don’t define me; neither do my failures. I am more than my body and more than my intellect, my body type, my contribution. I am more than I know. ~ Jean Fleming

Oh my word, I felt like that quote was written just for me! As I continue on this path towards weight loss surgery, I will hold this quote in front of me.

Some might feel this book is morbid. It’s about thinking what the end of your life will be like. What will I be like as an old woman? But, to me it’s a comforting reminder that growing old and entering the Kingdom is merely a pause on the way to eternity.

My calling and end are certain. Living in that reality gives clarity and courage to Phase 1 and security and reward in Phase 2. ~ Jean Fleming

I would go so far as to say that Pursue the Intentional Life captures well what I hope to accomplish with this blog, Wholistic Woman. As I approach my 40s, my perspective is much different than the one I had in my 20s (caring way too much about what other people thought) and 30s (live for pleasure). I am much more aware that my life is not indefinite on this earth. My days are numbered. So, I had better make the most of it.

It is my intention, my intended wing, to live with cheerful courage. ~ Jean Fleming

If you visit the Bloom website, you can watch videos and read recaps of the book. But honestly, the best way to get the most out of it is to order it and set aside some time to be still in His presence and let it speak to you.