Poppy Smith - 'thrive' e-zine

WELCOME TO THRIVE, OCTOBER 2010

Although this photo was taken in Morocco, it is similar to where I’m headed in two weeks—Oman and Abu Dhabi, via England. I’m excited to visit two countries I’ve never been to and speak at several events for expatriate women of various nationalities

Another upcoming event that excites me is the release of my book on Abraham’s faith journey, titled: REACHING HIGHER. I just have to show you the pretty cover!

This will be available in print in mid-October but you can enjoy reading it now in ebook format. You can be among the first to get a copy in ebook format or by pre-ordering the print version now from my website: www.poppysmith.com

I was delighted to have fun author and speaker, Kathi Lipp give an endorsement: www.kathilipp.com Here’s what she said: “I love how Poppy urges us to reach higher, to say YES to God, and to look at life as the adventure God intended us to live. If you want a fresh look at your failures and your faith, Poppy delivers in a transformative way. A must read.”

Carol Kent, Speaker and Author of Between a Rock and a Grace Place, said: “God calls us to grow in faith and live a life worthy of Him. In Reaching Higher, Poppy shows us how to do this by pointing to Abraham’s spiritual growth and what we can learn from his experiences with God. Filled with practical applications, this book will inspire and guide you in your spiritual journey.”

What Restores Your Soul?

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Last month’s focus on destressing yourself brought quite a few emails and comments. I’m glad you found it helpful. With so many deadlines in October, I’m trying to keep stress at bay by staying balanced with sleep, exercise, and clear priorities. It works a lot of the time, but I have to confess I’ve had a few close encounters lately with frustration and tears! (We're all human, especially me! )

There is one action that holds me steady again and again and which restored me today. It is simply stopping long enough in God’s presence to receive the peace and renewal He wants to give me (and you). Dwelling in Psalm 23 this afternoon I prayed,

“Lord, please speak to me. I need you. I need to remember who you are—

My shepherd, the One who cares, who will feed and lead me, the One who

restores my soul when I am parched, dry, and without strength .”

If you’re feeling like this, no matter how busy you are, stop and sit before the Lord. Listen to what He is saying to you:

I am your shepherd —there is no wavering or questioning—wherever you are today, I am your shepherd. I care for you—whether stubborn or surrendered—you matter to Me.

I make you lie down in green pastures —I call you, and cause you to slow down, to lie down, to rest and receive from Me. I provide life-giving food for you to eat, if you will.

I lead you beside quiet waters —life is like a churning river, like running white-water rapids at times. But I lovingly lead you to what restores your soul: quietness, stillness, silence.

I guide you in paths of righteousness, for my Name’s sake—how you live reflects on me. When you stay close, your heart will want to do what honors me—and I will honor and bless you as I have promised

David’s response to his Shepherd was life-restoring:

I shall fear no evil—whatever comes—because YOU are with me.
I am comforted, supported, strengthened because of YOUR work in my life.
I have sufficient for all my needs—my enemies (internal or external) cannot defeat me.
My head and heart are anointed with oil—filled with the Spirit to love and serve YOU.
I am confident and assured that YOUR goodness and loving-kindness are mine forever.

How is the Lord YOUR Shepherd? Where is He wanting to lead you? Will you let Him restore your soul?

Poppy Smith

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Reflecting on Scripture restores us spiritually and emotionally. Here are five ways to digest the Word:

1.	After reading a passage, write down any thoughts that strike you
2.	Choose and write down a key phrase or verse to reflect on
3.	Rewrite it in your own words
4.	Mull over the phrase and expand on its meaning
5.	Ask yourself: what does God want me to do in response to this?

Upcoming Events:

Speaking Calendar:

2010:

October 16: Plenary Speaker, Oregon Christian Writers, Fall meeting

October 25-28: Muscat Women's Fellowship, Oman

October 30-31: Evangelical Community Church, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

December 7: Christmas event, Lake Bible Church, OR

2011:

January 28-30: Lake Bible Church, Cannon Beach, OR

February 25-27: Good Shepherd Community Church, OR

March 26: St. John's Lutheran, Vancouver, Retreat

April 29-30: Women's Conference, Brookings, OR

To book Poppy for a speaking event, contact her at poppy@poppysmith.com

Ask Questions - Get Answers from Poppy:

I'm asked questions about faith, life application of Biblical principles and spiritual growth everywhere I speak.

Now, for my online friends, I'd like to give you the same opportunity to ask questions.

I'll answer your questions and share comments in coming issues of "Thrive". Just contact me and let me know what you'd like to know more about...all at the click of your mouse!