Josephine L.
Today, Jo speaks to us about the amazing book she is reading, being a Christian yoga instructor, and the amazing book she is reading (which everyone should read).
Josephine L.
Inspiring biblical passage of the moment: “Put on then, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience, bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive. And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony.”
Colossians 3:12-14 ESV
Spiritual growth focus at the moment: Deep theology and personal relationship with God.
Profession: Business Owner, Christian Yoga Teacher at http://www.gracexstrength.com.
A one sentence bio of yourself: Mum of two boys, married to my best friend, beloved daughter on Earth and Heaven serving His Kingdom with grace and strength from the Lord.
When did you first encounter God and how did you encounter Him? It wasn’t ONE defining moment but a collective of multiple nudges by the Holy Spirit to reconnect with the Lord, during a dark time in my mid-twenties, while I was going through a season of a failing marriage and coping with unexpected motherhood.
What has helped you grow spiritually in this season? It was ultimately my willingness to ‘surrender’ to God and seek Jesus for help with my life that saw my life being transformed from darkness to a path filled with light and hope.
Just read/currently reading (and what has it taught you?): Boundaries by Dr. Henry Cloud and Dr. John Townsend. I’ve read and re-read this book because I love to give, give, give in order that I can help people and get credit from people and the Lord. (The latter part totally unhealthy and NOT we are called to do!) This book teaches us to recognize the underlying motivations on why we tend to shy away from saying ’no’ or serve with a ‘joyless’ heart. It digs deep into the “why’s” and what the Lord says is the ‘how’. This book is a good soul care check for me to set healthy boundaries that is Biblical, so that I can serve His Kingdom effectively and genuinely.
“This book teaches us to recognise the underlying motivations on why we tend to shy away from saying ‘no’ or serve with a ‘joyless’ heart.”
Top three essentials: Bible, quality time with family, phone.
How did God speak to you recently? Through Instagram, I have made several Kingdom family connections and there is one particular connection that I feel is God speaking directly and personally to me. It is through an ordained Pastor, @organicsouloutreach, Philip Knox who has been sending me emails (the modern letters that would resemble Paul’s letters to the churches) urging me to dive deeper into theology to gain increased wisdom and knowledge of God.
God also breathed the word “BREATHE” for my year 2019. I’m excited to find out how this word carries me through the year. I have already had much use for it!
“God also breathed the word ‘BREATHE’ for my year 2019.”
Hobby: Yoga (of course!), reading, journaling.
Top three practical tips for staying spiritually strong: Read the Word; Create space for meditation and quiet time with the Lord; Have a strong Kingdom circle of friends to support you.
Favorite person in scripture? Job. I honestly cannot see how I can lose all my family, possessions and still sing praise to God. His faith really puts things into perspective. As a chronic migraine sufferer, Job has given me a lot of inspiration during times of unexplained physical pain.
What do you want people to learn about God when they look at you? His Grace; that healing and more love can be found through forgiveness
How do you leave your mark on your community? Be present, be humble and be hands-on with all opportunities to serve.
Favorite holiday? Anywhere with a beach and sunshine. Either that, or the full hustle and bustle of city.
A dream you have? Seeing my ministry/business grow internationally and rise up more Christian Yoga teachers, so more can experience the love of Christ.
A special tradition you and your family engage in or keep: We have movie nights with my children every Sunday where after dinner, we put a bag of home-made popcorn into the microwave, turn on Netflix and huddle together on the couch. It’s a time for us to bond physically, laugh and cry together but also a reminder of God’s blessings on our family with the provision of luxuries and and good health!
Question you will ask when you get to heaven? Too many… but yes, I have that same question too … “why plant that tree?” (I’m keeping it real here)
Thing you want to raise awareness about: (Because I am a sufferer) Chronic Migraine is not just a headache but something that impacts many people on a deeply emotional and practical level.
Yoga is not a religion and that it CAN absolutely be separated from any religious teachings/worship as a practice for the mind and body.
What do you usually do before 9 a.m.? Still dreaming or snoozing.
What is on your nightstand? Lamp, Bible, Ear Plugs, Essential oil diffuser, Lip balm.
Define Christianity in a sentence: Christianity is salvation from humanity’s brokenness and this sinful world through Christ Jesus, who’s relationship with us transforms us to live in a way that is pleasing to God and delivers love, joy, peace and hope in our lives.
For more Jo:
Until next time, keep witnessing!
xx
Gabriela Yareliz
Gabriela is a writer, editor and attorney. She loves the art of storytelling, and she is based in NYC.
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