Today we are focusing on: Rest and Review - Day 2: Contemplation
Contemplation:
1. the action of looking thoughtfully at something for a long time.
2. deep reflective thought.
How has the #30DayHusbandFast been for you? No really, how have you found the past 28 days?
The art of contemplation, as the nifty definition above states, is all about deep thought and today (and however long you want) I would really encourage you to think deeply (really deeply) about how you've found the past 28 days.
The fast may/may not have gone how you wished, but that's what thinking and reviewing
is all about.
You see, within our faith it's crucial that we grow in faith (Hebrews 5: 12-13), we have to be seeking/desiring solid food and not milk. I have found that taking time (whether that be in prayer, silence or light Soaking in His Presence instrumentals) to contemplate how something I have done faith-wise has impacted me, is crucial to helping me grow in faith. Is that the same for you?
Take the example of fasting, it was only in
June of 2020 that I had fasted for more than 1 day by doing the #30DayHusbandFast, with my family. I contemplated on it's impact and since then, decided to be more intentional, make some changes and see who would be up for it, as I had found it really impactful spiritually and helpful in the area of desiring a Husband, and wanted to share that with others in Christ :-).
I would be lying if I didn't say, I hope the 28 days have been impactful for you (because I really do), but maybe it hasn't and that's ok - as this is a day/time/space to start think of why/why not, and all the other variables involved.
Below are a few-ish pointers to help you get into that contemplative phase:
What moments did you enjoy?
What moments did you hate?
Did you struggle with the fast?
Are there any topics that really spoke to you?
Are there any topics that God spoke to you about?
Is there anything you wish you did differently?
Is there anything you found unhelpful with the posts (sorry in advance)?
Is there anything you found helpful with the posts?
How would you describe your relationship/faith-walk with God before the fast?
How would you describe your relationship/faith-walk with God after the fast?
What do you think you learnt about yourself/future Husband during this fast?
Now the big question to contemplate to all the above is WHY?
Take a moment to think about the why when answering these questions, then prayerfully consider your responses as tomorrow, the last day, (spoiler) we'll go back to develop more action taking - whoop!
But for today, just take time to rest and contemplate - How has the #30DayHusbandFast been for you?
Give yourself a Hallelujah hand raise for getting this far.
Reminder: For suggested devotionals and bible chapters for this past week, feel free to check out the Week Four overview here.
Have a contemplative day!
