1. I refuse to let my public passion exceed my private devotion. --Unknown

I heard Francis Chan say this, quoting someone else, and it immediately struck my heart. As a Christian business owner who frequently talks about Christ, spiritual disciplines, and my faith online it's something I have to be extra aware of. I never want to put on a passionate outward display while hosting a careless, hypocritical heart. As Jesus said: "Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you are like whitewashed tombs, which outwardly appear beautiful, but within are full of dead people's bones and all uncleanness." (Matthew 23:27)

2. How we spend our days is, of course, how we spend our lives. --Annie Dillard

This quote circles my mind as I decide how to live my days intentionally, focusing on God's Kingdom instead of my own. Our time can slip away from us if we aren't careful; I don't want to get to the end of my life and wonder why I never gave sacrificially, talked about Christ with others, loved my neighbors fiercely, etc. 

Isaiah 32:8 says that nobel people (children of God!) make nobel plans and stand firm in those plans. I want to plan my days so that they work together towards a nobel, Kingdom-cultivating life. 

3. We won't be distracted by comparison if we're captivated by purpose --Bob Goff

God used this quote to remove my insecurities as I launched Dear Mushka and navigated the messy world of social media. Matthew 28:19 says that my purpose is to make disciples. Isaiah 43:6-7 says that I am made to glorify God. I can echo Paul (in Philippians 1:20) in asking that my whole life's purpose be to magnify Jesus Christ. 

And so when the Holy Spirit reminds my soul of its purpose (again and again) the comparison floats away. 

4.Think of eternity...and live backwards from that. --Ann Voskamp 

Or as Johnathan Edwards said: "Lord, stamp eternity on my eyeballs!" 

When I set my eyes and mind on things above, not on earthy things (Colossians 3:2), I'm able to live eternity focused. I'm more generous; it's God's money, anyway. I'm more bold; my life is a quick breeze. I'm more hopeful; Jesus is preparing a place for me! Eternity first, this world second.

5. How deep the Father’s love for us, how vast beyond all measure, that He should give His only Son to make a wretch His treasure... I will not boast in anything, no gifts, no power, no wisdom; But I will boast in Jesus Christ, His death and resurrection. --Stuart Townend 

How Deep the Father's Love for Us has been a favorite hymn of mine since I was a little girl. When I am at my lowest, its because I've forgotten how loved I am by the triune God; it's because I've focused on my wretchedness instead of on His great mercy & grace. Praise God for His love, let it be the only thing I boast in.