I started
going to church when I was in fourth grade. In my first Sunday School class, I
received my very first Bible – The Adventure Kids Bible. I didn’t know it at
the time, but that was where my faith journey began. In a few short months I
was baptized and continued to grow in my faith by attending Vacation Bible
School in the summer and participating in children’s sermon on Sunday mornings.
Now, I look back to my beginning days and see just how much my faith has grown
as well as all who helped me be where I am today. As I continue to increase my
faith I have discovered a few different methods, specifically in three areas of
my life: music, books, and Jesus.
If you ask me
what my favorite songs are, my response would probably be a long list of
Casting Crowns, Hillsong United, Skillet, TobyMac, and basically any artist on
K-Love. Ever since I started listening to K-Love and Air 1 on the radio my
morning routine has been energetic rather than slow moving. By listening to
encouraging songs, I discovered a new outlook on life – joy, happiness, love,
and faith. Currently, I have 110 songs on my playlist which includes a variety
of upbeat and contemporary Christian music. Without music in my life, the faith
I have in Jesus would not be the same. I hope you take the 30-Day Challenge
listening to only Christian music for 30 days. I promise, it will change your
life.
Reading is a
wonderful tool to pass time, in addition it draws the reader into a fairytale,
mystery, or horror story. My first Christian book, Unlocked by Karen
Kingsbury, came as a suggestion from my mom. Immediately, I fell in love with
her stories and still continue to read them when I have the chance. Recently I
have read some of C.S. Lewis’ books including Mere Christianity. If you are a
book lover like me, I encourage you to find a Christian author that writes in a
genre that interests you. Then, take a week to read a few of their books and
see how your life changes.
Jesus – Our Lord
and Savior. King of Kings. Lord of Lords. Emmanuel. Honestly, I know that
listening to music and reading uplifting stories is a great way to keep me
encouraged throughout the week, but without a daily devotional or reading of
His Word my week is not complete. Without Jesus, my life would not be worth
living.
My advice:
find your passion. Then use your passion to inspire and teach others about the love
of Jesus. Due to Casting Crown’s passion of making music, I am inspired daily
which in turn I have started this blog to hopefully inspire one of you.
I would love to hear from you on your passions and
inspirations. Feel free to comment or email me at biblesandbackpacks3@gmail.com
XOXO
Ashley
