Most of our obstacles would melt away if instead of cowering before them, we should make up our minds to walk boldly through them.
~Orison Swett Marden (American inspirational writer and founder of SUCCESS Magazine)
Think for a moment and make a list of the obstacles that get in your way and keep you from opening your Bibles to study on a day-to-day basis. You will find that some obstacles you simply have no control over (a sick child, paying bills, preparing food); but you will also find that some obstacles you absolutely have complete control over (time on social media, athletic events, and hair/nail appointments). Is there a way to continue to do all of the things we want to do and STILL have time for the Word of God? Is there a way to keep up with the “have to’s” and STILL be able to squeeze in Bible study? The answer to both questions is a resounding “Yes!”….BUT…
But how?!
Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added unto you.
Matthew 6:33
Based on the Lord’s words, if we are putting first things first, then our needs will be met: food, clothing, and shelter. (Take note that food does not have to be from a five-star steakhouse, nor does our shirt have to have Tommy Hilfiger’s name on it, nor does our house have to reside in a gated community.)
King David, after being wanted for dead, in constant fear for his life, and in hiding, could say still:
I have been young, and now am old; Yet I have not seen the righteous forsaken, Nor his descendants begging bread.
Psalm 37:5
Our heavenly Father has given us richly all things to enjoy (James 1:17 and 1 Timothy 6:17). He has also made us stewards of our time, talents, and money (Luke 16). We cannot let the cares or the pleasures of the world choke out His commands we are to read and follow (Mark 4:19).
Obstacles are those frightful things you see when you take your eyes off your goals.
Henry Ford
When we take our eyes off of Jesus, we lose sight of the goal which is heaven – the place He has prepared for us and where He is waiting for us. We must keep our eyes fixed on Him (Hebrews 12:2).
We have diligently and carefully prepared The Obstacle Course with YOU in mind! We struggle with these same obstacles from time to time, and we want to provide our friendly and (hopefully always) Biblical advice on overcoming the hurdles that prevent consistent Bible study. Take a look at what The Obstacle Course offers:
~You will be provided printable lessons on the following topics, many with journaling questions:
*Benefits of Consistent Bible Study
*Idol Life or Abundant Life?
*A Balanced Diet
*Holy Housework
*Working Women
*Shop ‘Til You Drop
*You Cannot Pour from an Empty Pitcher
*Our Heritage from the Lord
*Exercising Godliness
*A Well-Earned “Sabbath”
*Are You Ready for Retirement?
*All the Extras
*Time Out
*The Greatest Show (isn’t) on Earth!
*Mastering Social Media
*Learning about Learning Styles
*Overcoming Biblical Overwhelm
*Craving the Word
*The Good News about Baby Steps
~You will be provided worksheets that help you prioritize the activities and obligations in your life such as housework, meal planning, budgeting, and retirement.
~Also, you will be provided gorgeous printables to hang in your home, tack on your fridge, or tuck in your planner to help keep your mind on God’s Word.
~Other graphics (such as smartphone, computer, and social media wallpapers) will be provided as well. All of these appealing graphics are color-coordinated and PRETTY in hopes of catching your eye and continuing to point you to the Word.
~Lastly, we cannot do anything at The Ruffled Mango without a scripture writing plan! This one has FORTY scriptures focusing on The Word of God.
As a BONUS, you will also receive a pdf of ALL of our 2020 scripture writing plans! And as a SECOND BONUS, you’ll receive a Social Scriptures tutorial on how we create our social media graphics for Facebook and Instagram!
This has been one of the most challenging years for me as a Christian, wife, and parent. I needed this opportunity to participate in The Obstacle Course personally, and our prayers are that we all can become more diligent students of the Word, thereby yielding the fruit that we will one day be judged righteous in the sight of God.
(P.S. The Obstacle Course is closed to new students right now, but stay tuned – the doors will be opening again in the fall of 2020!)
