Article by: Sarah Koontz, Founder of Living by Design Ministries
Whether we are ready for it or not, October has arrived!
That means it is time for the #Write31Days challenge.
31 Days is an online writing challenge where bloggers pick one topic and write a post on that topic every day in October. As a writer, 31 Days challenges you to go deeper into one topic. As a reader, 31 Days will most likely have a few topics that you are curious about, it’s a great time to get to know some new bloggers.
I was on the fence about taking on this challenge since my blog is relatively new and I am just figuring out how to juggle it all.
But the most incredible idea hurled itself into my lap, and I simply could not resist giving it a try!
Did you know that I live in one of the most spectacular places in the world?
Mt. Rushmore, Needles Highway & the Badlands are right in my backyard.
We are surrounded by rivers, lakes, trailheads, national forests and sweeping vistas.
I have called the beautiful Black Hills of South Dakota home for the majority of my 33 years and I wouldn’t trade it for anything.
This is the place where I was born, where I met my husband, where my children were born and where I hope to reside until the Lord calls me to be with Him.
The beauty that surrounds me has also permeated my soul and taught me to wonder at the glory and majesty of the Creator.
The surrounding beauty has permeated my soul and taught me to wonder at the majesty of the Creator.Like a tree planted by the streams of water, I find myself nourished and fulfilled in this place and I long to share its beauty with you.
So for this year’s #Write31Days challenge, I have decided to combine my love for the Black Hills with my unwavering belief that words have the power to change the world.
I am titling this series “31 Uplifting Quote Graphics” and I plan to release a beautiful image & inspirational quote every day throughout the month of October.
My good friend, Todd White, is partnering with me for this challenge.
Todd has graciously granted me access to his photography collection and permission to use his images for this series.
His pictures are especially meaningful to me because they truly capture the beauty of the Black Hills and surrounding areas.
The idea of combining ancient words of wisdom with the beautiful imagery that surrounds me each and every day is intoxicating.
Beyond that, I aim to share with you some of the lesser known facts about the people behind the quotes.
I have found the process of researching for this challenge captivating, and I am excited to share with you what I have discovered.
How wonderful it will be for me to dedicate the month of October to searching the history books for tiny morsels of wisdom that will inspire us all to embrace the life we were created to live.
Rather than overwhelming my blog with a new article each day, I plan on picking a person and a topic to explore in a single weekly article.
I will update this article every morning with additional content and the freshly curated daily quote graphic.
I believe this is going to be a fantastic opportunity for me to explore my passion for beautiful photography, graphic design, and embracing the wisdom that has been passed down through the generations.
Click the links below to access my #Write31Days articles
Week 1: Martin Luther on Marriage – 7 Quotes in 7 Days
Martin Luther was German priest and scholar who lived from 1483-1546. He is best known for nailing the 95-thesis onto a chapel door and becoming the father of the Protestant Reformation, but that is just the beginning of the story! I was absolutely blown away when I learned how Martin Luther met his wife and the strength and love demonstrated throughout their marriage.
Week 2: Fanny Crosby on Faith – 7 Quotes in 7 Days
Fanny Crosby lived from 1820-1915. She is widely regarded as “the most prolific and significant writer of gospel songs in American History.” The life of Fanny Crosby is an excellent example of how God uses trials and tribulations to refine us, to teach us to depend on Him, and to equip us for the calling He has placed on our lives. I have found the process of researching the life and ministry of Fanny Crosby fascinating, and I am excited to share with you what I have discovered.
Week 3: Legacy of Oswald Chambers – 7 Quotes in 7 Days
This week, we are turning our attention to the man (and women) behind “My Utmost for His Highest,” Oswald Chambers and his wife “Biddy”. You will be astounded by the important role this brave woman played in establishing her husband’s legacy. Because of her tireless work, more than 37 books were published in Oswald Chamber’s name after his untimely death at the age of just 42.
Week 4: Seven Days of Uplifting Last Words
This week, we are turning our attention to the uplifting last words of seven faithful men. People’s final utterances reflect the condition of their heart and what they believe about God. This week is definitely different from the previous weeks as I will be introducing you to a new character each day.
Week 5: Lessons Learned from the Spiritual Giants
I would like to wrap up this #write31days series by sharing the three lessons I learned from the spiritual giants of faith this month. They picked up their pens and wrote (both literally and figuratively), and God has done amazing things through their stories! It may sound weird, but I feel like I have at least 5 new friends this month….
Here’s to 31 days of interesting people, inspirational quotes, and beautiful photography.
I hope you come by often throughout the month, and I would so appreciate it if you would tell your friends about the #Write31Days challenge.
