Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Food and Nutrition, Fruit, Gratitude, Life is Short, Miscellaneous

Finding Grace #449

You may have seen the acronym GRACE as God’s Riches At Christ’s Expense. Grace is also God’s unmerited favor, or God doing for us what we cannot.

I find grace overflowing with God’s love, joy, peace, blessings, mercy, power, provision, protection, and wisdom. Thank You, Jesus!

Where did I find God’s love and favor—His abundant grace—this week?!

This week was full of a special kind of grace, a sweet mix of work and rest.

Work was busy, like usual, but somehow, it all turned out well. I was able to stay on top of my charting and help a few of my coworkers. I am grateful for God’s help!

On Wednesday, I had the opportunity to meet and listen to a well-known plant-based doctor and researcher speak at the Fargo Theater downtown. Dr. Neal Barnard lives in the Washington, DC area, but he grew up in Fargo! I have many plant-based nutrition books, but I bought one of his new ones so he could sign it. 🙂 He said he wanted to clone me as a dietitian! 🙂 He was very down-to-earth, and his sister and three brothers sat behind me. Dr. Barnard was an excellent speaker, so funny and relatable. Naturally, he talked a lot about fruits, veggies, and antioxidants! Indeed, I may use some of his examples for my own patients. It was a really cool event, and I will keep thinking about it in the coming days!

Before that, I went back to Trefoil Park and noticed even more fall colors since I was there last week. I spent quite a while walking around and taking pictures. In fact, this was a great week for nature walks! I went to Lindenwood Park (ND) and Gooseberry Park (MN) on Friday to do the same, and I also walked around my neighborhood on a hunt for pretty trees! It was a gorgeous week!

Today, Lydia and I have mostly relaxed. I worked on a few small projects and made some vegetable soup. We are rewatching The Chosen and might play a game, too!

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These are only a few examples, but God’s grace never runs out!

There’s grace in every situation—we just need to look for it. God promises if we seek Him, we will find Him (see Jeremiah 29:13)!

Posted on in Food and Nutrition, Fruit, Gratitude, Miscellaneous, Parenting

Autumnal Antioxidants

It’s amazing how two days can make such a difference in autumnal colors! I took a picture of one of my maple trees on Sunday and then again yesterday. It was a much brighter red! You can see what I mean on my blog Facebook page.

Right after I took the picture yesterday, Lydia told me what she is learning in science class. She is learning about photosynthesis, cell respiration, and fermentation. She described aerobic and anaerobic processes, simple sugar molecules, and leaf pigments. Soon, we tied this back to our maple tree; as the chlorophyll reduces, all the other colors show through!

Lydia was shocked that I understood and use these scientific concepts several times a week in gut health and general nutrition. I explained that leaf pigments show us the antioxidants represented by their colors and how this carries over to plant foods. I always tell my patients to eat the colors of the rainbow when eating fruits and vegetables. They are helpful for cancer prevention, managing blood sugar, protecting the heart, calming down inflammation in the body, and much more! So, if you have pain or health concerns, consider how you can increase your produce!

Free Raspberries Blueberries photo and picture

Two examples of powerful antioxidants are carotenoids and anthocyanins. Carotenoids are a large family, and beta-carotene is a precursor to vitamin A. It is found in carrots and sweet potatoes, for instance. Anthocyanins are found in red, blue, and purple fruits and vegetables. Think of eggplants, red onions, blueberries, blackberries, and dark grapes. Additionally, green foods contain chlorophyll and other antioxidants, as well as those in the red, yellow, and orange color groups. The darker the color, the more antioxidants. Thus, the blues and greens are among the most nutrient-dense foods on the planet! But, even lighter whites, like onions, potatoes, and cauliflower count!

Plants, such as fruits and vegetables, are nutritional powerhouses! In addition to antioxidants, they also have tons of vitamins, minerals, and fiber. They are low in calories, which means they can help someone lose weight while maximizing nutrients. Just about everyone should eat a wide variety of produce every day.

However, a few people do need to be wise with their choices. Whole fruits and vegetables are typically better than juices because of the fiber. Certain people have chewing difficulties, so maybe they need softer, cooked items. Or, if someone has kidney stones, they may need to reduce those high in oxalates. Some may need to choose lower potassium options, but most Americans simply don’t eat enough fruits or vegetables! Sadly, many people think fruit-flavored cereal or treats, or powdered vegetable supplements are the same.

Free Fruits Fresh photo and picture

I am so blessed that God makes nutrition so practical (and tasty!). Nutrition is not rocket science; much of it is common sense. God made it fun and pleasant to eat His provision. We can eat according to what is in season and save a little money (fresh, frozen, or canned). What grace! But, it can still be challenging since people get confused by what they see or read online. I often have to bust through nutrition myths. 

Anyway, I enjoyed connecting with Lydia on a topic we can both use and understand. I might have “nerded out” a little on her when explaining the glucose and fructose metabolism, but I know she still loves me. 😉

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God, thanks for helping us understand how You made the world, especially in ways that help our bodies. Thanks for providing us with good, healthy food. May we delight in You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: What are your favorite fruits and veggies? How are you incorporating them into your meals this season?

Task: Aim to eat the best quality food you can afford across all food groups. Check out this helpful website for ways to eat more fruits and veggies!

 

 

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Gratitude, Miscellaneous

Finding Grace #448

You may have seen the acronym GRACE as God’s Riches At Christ’s Expense. Grace is also God’s unmerited favor, or God doing for us what we cannot.

I find grace overflowing with God’s love, joy, peace, blessings, mercy, power, provision, protection, and wisdom. Thank You, Jesus!

Where did I find God’s love and favor—His abundant grace—this week?!

This was a fun-filled week! I worked hard but also intentionally rested.

Work went well, and we started a new fiscal year. I had several good patients and had a mix of meetings, webinars, and problem-solving.

Yesterday, after work, I went to a park nearby to read and walk around. It was beautiful! I stayed about two hours and then went to some gardens by NDSU, where I spent another hour or so. The flowers were so pretty. While I was there, I called my mom, and I loved catching up!

After that, I met six coworkers for dinner at a local speakeasy-type restaurant. It was dark and hidden, though not really a secret! We split some yummy appetizers and laughed a lot. We can’t wait to go out again soon!

This morning, Lydia and I met some friends for coffee. We stayed nearly three hours chatting with the mom and daughter! It was fun, and I am sure we could have stayed a lot longer! 😀

Later, we did a few chores but mostly relaxed. I did a little exercise and also took a nap!

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These are only a few examples, but God’s grace never runs out!

There’s grace in every situation—we just need to look for it. God promises if we seek Him, we will find Him (see Jeremiah 29:13)!

Posted on in Gratitude, Miscellaneous, Prayer, Wisdom, Worship

No One Beside Jesus

A few Sunday evenings ago, my family was on Zoom when my four-year-old nephew, Alex, brought out his Beginner’s Bible. He started going through it page by page, and my sister answered his questions. Alex would point to a Bible character on the cover and then go find them in the book. “That’s David. He was a king. That’s Samson. He was strong.”

Alex has been learning about Moses at preschool, so we heard how he was in a basket in the river because he was in danger. Alex doesn’t understand the rest of the story yet, but it was cute!

Soon, he got to Jesus! He spent several minutes going through Jesus’ life. “That’s him as a baby. There he is with some kids. Why is he on the cross? Who were the robbers?” My sister explained that Jesus didn’t do anything wrong, so he didn’t deserve to die, but the robbers did. The next page showed the tomb guarded by the Roman soldier, and next was the empty grave! 

I could have watched Alex talk about Jesus and his Bible all day. It was precious to see his little heart open up, a great reminder that Jesus is for everyone. The gospel is so simple that even a four-year-old can understand it! Awhile back, I bought him a Jesus Storybook Bible, and I am sure he will be into that one of these days.

Free Bible Book photo and picture

The gospel is GOOD NEWS, but it is not necessarily easy. It can be tough to come to terms with our sin and change our trajectory. Thankfully, with the loving help and conviction of the Holy Spirit, we don’t have to do it alone. Jesus did all the heavy work!

It is vital to know what you believe and why. This includes connecting with God through daily prayer and Bible reading. It means reading Scripture for yourself and wrestling with its meaning. It’s learning about the heart of God.

I love resources that can help! A good concordance or commentary can be really helpful. Learning the cultural and historical context can help you glean more insights you might have missed! I also thought this article was on identifying true and false ‘gospels.’

For the month of October, Desiring God has a special project, Here We Stand, to highlight short biographies of people whose choices and convictions led to the Protestant Reformation. Regardless of your denomination, it is helpful to learn the history of our faith! Who knows—perhaps there is some value if you are Catholic as well!

We have been singing a song lately at church, called “No One Beside,” by Elevation Worship. I have had it in my head for the last three days! The chorus is as follows:

Oh magnify the Lord
Let us exalt His name together
No one beside You, Lord
Honor and praise are Yours forever

Offhand, I don’t know the rest of the lyrics, but you can listen to them here. 🙂

Today, I am meditating on what it means to have ‘no one beside’ Jesus. The entire Bible is about Him! Jesus is the King of the Universe, and all things were made through Him and for Him. Nobody but Jesus died and rose again to save me and give me eternal life and the riches of HIs grace. He alone is worthy of all my praise!

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Heavenly Father, thanks for the gift of Jesus! Help me keep Jesus as the most important thing, first and foremost. In His Name, Amen

Question:  What does it mean to you to have ‘no one beside’ Jesus? How does that impact your life and personal choices?

Task: Take a little time to consider how you can put Jesus first. Also, maybe check out the Here We Stand biographies (at the bottom of the web page)! There will be a new one posted every day in October!

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Gratitude, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Personality, Pivot

Finding Grace #447

You may have seen the acronym GRACE as God’s Riches At Christ’s Expense. Grace is also God’s unmerited favor, or God doing for us what we cannot.

I find grace overflowing with God’s love, joy, peace, blessings, mercy, power, provision, protection, and wisdom. Thank You, Jesus!

Free Autumn Color Swedish Mountain Ash photo and picture

Where did I find God’s love and favor—His abundant grace—this week?!

This week was good but required a little more patience than usual. All week, I was behind slow-moving traffic and experienced various roadblocks and ongoing construction. This has been going all summer, of course, but this week felt excessive. LOL I had a few tech issues with the internet and password issues. I had to wait for people to answer texts, emails, and phone calls, etc. I’m still working on my long to-do list, but I’m grateful for the Lord refining me and reminding me to slow down and go at His pace.

In August, I reached five years at the Fargo VA, and on Friday, I was given a VA mug and five-year pin! It was a cool surprise after a very full, but good, week serving my patients. It’s an honor to serve these Veterans in practical ways! I also love my coworkers. We have a wonderful team!

Yesterday, a friend and I met for lunch after work. We always have fun catching up! Then, Lydia and I went to Menards for some home items. I needed some new light switches to replace the ones in Lydia’s room. I did that when we came home and did a few other house chores, as well.

Today, we babysat for a coworker while she and her husband finished an outdoor project. I offered to help so they could complete it before the weather changes. We had fun with her three-year-old and one-year-old boys!

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These are only a few examples, but God’s grace never runs out!

There’s grace in every situation—we just need to look for it. God promises if we seek Him, we will find Him (see Jeremiah 29:13)!

Posted on in Being Gracious, Books and Movies I Like, Gratitude, Journey of Grace, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Pivot, Prayer, Wisdom, Worship

Healing Connections

Pain comes in many forms and is an excellent signal that we must pay attention and address an issue. It can be physical, mental, emotional, relational, or spiritual (sometimes all of the above). Each of us should determine the cause and solution and seek professional input if needed. Often, we can start with the basics on our own!

On Sunday after church, I went to the front of the sanctuary for prayer for my hip and back. Both muscles and nerves connect the two areas I am dealing with. I have been praying and practicing mobility exercises to improve my flexibility and relieve pressure.

The lady who prayed reminded me it’s all God’s power combined with my faith, not her words, that brings healing. Even today, I still feel a little pain, but it is improving!

Praying in faith is key, but we can also take practical action. On Monday, I decided to try a new three-week program for a healthy back. I appreciated the hip challenge I did recently, and the back version is equally intriguing and educational!

As we know, God can heal instantaneously, but often, it takes time. In my case, nerve impingement likely happened over many years of repetitive motion. So, it seems, I need to learn how to take better care of myself and let God heal me that way. Then, I can sustain the results!

Free Woman Exercise photo and picture

Instead of trying to diagnose myself, I am simply working on a total body approach. It’s all connected and if one area is feeling “off” chances are at least one other area is, too!

I have been learning a lot lately. Muscles, bones, and nerves are all related but show up in separate issues. Sure, I learned some of this in my college courses, but it has been a while, and it is good to have a refresher!

On Monday night, I started week five of my mobility routine. I have been doing the exercises four times a week, so this was round seventeen. I was praying, and suddenly, something just clicked!

After that, I was able to do all fifteen exercises fairly easily! I have been able to do most of them but struggled to do three or four because my hip wouldn’t go past a certain point without pain or catching.

I was in awe and yelled for Lydia to come and watch. Praise God! Even if it gets a little tight again, I know healing is close at hand! I woke up the next day still able to do the exercises, though I still need to practice.

Then, yesterday, I had a follow-up appointment with a certain Veteran. We previously connected over being authors. God used the act of writing to help me lead this patient to make changes.

We talked on the phone this time, and immediately, he wanted to discuss my book. He had read the entire thing and marked a few pages that he had questions about. He really wanted to talk about healing.

He asked about page 107 and asked me to verify what I wrote: that spiritual health is more important than physical healing. He was fascinated by this and mentioned that we often pray for temporary physical results but run the risk of overlooking eternal spiritual matters.

We briefly discussed how Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead, but eventually, even he had to die again. I also quoted 3 John 1:2, which hit home for him.

God is always faithful and willing to heal, one way or another. At the same time, He is gracious in teaching us about His power, love, and provision along the way. He can use pain or wellness to our benefit, though our wounds may accomplish more as we draw close to Him.

We did manage to discuss nutrition, of course, but it was so cool to see how my story was helping this man think about God’s healing in new ways!

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Father God, thanks for all the ways you heal us and make us whole. Help us seek You more than what You can do for us. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Question: What is God teaching you this week? How is He healing you or changing your perspective?

Task: Bring all your aches, wounds, grief, and expectations to Jesus. Praise Him through the pain. He will never let you down. Nothing is impossible for God!!

Posted on in Being Gracious, Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Gratitude, Miscellaneous, Pivot

Finding Grace #446

You may have seen the acronym GRACE as God’s Riches At Christ’s Expense. Grace is also God’s unmerited favor, or God doing for us what we cannot.

I find grace overflowing with God’s love, joy, peace, blessings, mercy, power, provision, protection, and wisdom. Thank You, Jesus!

Free Foliage Branch photo and picture

Where did I find God’s love and favor—His abundant grace—this week?!

This was a full and busy week, but I knew God was at work all around me.

On Monday, I went to the chiropractor. I was hoping that she could just “pop” my hip in place and fix the impinged nerve, but it will still require more mobility work. Either way, it is something that didn’t occur overnight, so it will take time to heal. I see it as preparing my body to shovel snow this winter without causing more issues!

On Wednesday, I worked a little more than half a day, then needed to leave for a some appointments. I left work later than intended due to patient care. But, we were still on time for Lydia’s ortho appointment. Because she is diligent to wear her equipment, she will likely finish six months sooner than expected! Woohoo!

The second appointment was a financial check-up over Zoom. It was good to review things and make a few changes. I am grateful for help with planning for the future. God is so good at providing for us. Thanks, Lord!

On Thursday, I drove with two coworkers to Grand Forks. We attended a nutrition training at the University of North Dakota (UND). It was fun to meet other dietitians. We learned some new things, but also were able to share some of our knowledge with them!

On Friday, I stayed later at work to help a patient and solve a problem for him. It was gratifying to answer his questions and provide excellent care! Next week, I will contact his medical team so they can make things right for this Veteran. I also had some input from two other coworkers, and I appreciate the teamwork!

Last night and today, I’ve been watching the virtual version of ChosenCon running this weekend in Orlando! I enjoy watching the portrayal of Jesus and His disciples in The Chosen, and it is fun to see the actors and all the memorabilia behind the scenes. We learned that the company will also produce other shows about Moses, Joseph, and the Book of Acts. They will even run a show with The Chosen actors going on adventures in the wild with Bear Grylls, as well as a children’s animated show. I can’t wait!

Otherwise, today we are mostly relaxing after a busy few weeks!

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These are only a few examples, but God’s grace never runs out!

There’s grace in every situation—we just need to look for it. God promises if we seek Him, we will find Him (see Jeremiah 29:13)!

Posted on in Being Gracious, Gratitude, Kindness, Miscellaneous, Personality, Wisdom

Influenced!

Today, I am thinking about the word “influencer,” which is a buzzword these days. There is a little nuance in that it can feel cheesy at best and like manipulation at worst.  People are vying for a chance to be noticed, liked, and make money. They chase the next cool thing, often selling things they don’t believe in or understand. But, there is a lot of in-between, too.

Galatians 1:10, says, “Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God? Or am I trying to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ.”

Others influence us in person and online every day. And, people are watching us, too, even when we don’t realize it. We cannot chase success or approval from others. But, we can humbly recognize that we also have great influence. Yes, we carry the Holy Spirit everywhere we go! He wants to be the most influential in our lives!

For starters, He has given us spiritual gifts and helps us bear spiritual fruit. Through the Holy Spirit, we also have the same power in us that raised Jesus from the dead (Ephesians 1:19-21)! We have the mind of Christ (1 Corinthians 2:15-16). Ultimately, He is the only one we live for. “In Him we live and move and have our being” (Acts 17:28).

We can make someone’s day by demonstrating grace and kindness. This may include organizing a meal train or sending an encouraging word. It doesn’t have to be a lot of effort. Sometimes, we are the ones who start it, and sometimes, we are the ones who finish it. Each role is important.

In the last couple of weeks, I have gotten to be an “influencer” in many worthwhile ways. I shared some health tips I have found helpful with my friends. No, I did not make any money doing so, in fact, I even spent a little money! 😉

At work, we encouraged a coworker going through a hard time. She’s taken on the role of a caregiver, and so we want to support her. I sent an email with some ideas, and everyone was on board. I collected donations and ran some errands, but it was a team effort.

Yesterday, I requested some help in remembering someone who is grieving. Think of a ‘love bomb’ type of thing! It will be fun to see how that turns out.

We don’t have to travel far or go out of our way to be influencers. As a parent, the person I influence the most sits at my dinner table! Lydia and I talk about positive and negative influences several times a week!

Finally, it is essential to be yourself and walk in your strengths. Confidence can make all the difference! Remember who you are in Christ and trust Him to work through you!

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God, thanks for Your abundant grace and magnanimous influence in our lives. Protect us and help us walk wisely so we may influence others for Your kingdom. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Who are you influencing? Is your impact helpful and encouraging, or harmful?

Tasks: Consider your words and actions, as well as the impact they have.

Posted on in Being Gracious, Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Gratitude, Kindness, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Prayer

Finding Grace #445

You may have seen the acronym GRACE as God’s Riches At Christ’s Expense. Grace is also God’s unmerited favor, or God doing for us what we cannot.

I find grace overflowing with God’s love, joy, peace, blessings, mercy, power, provision, protection, and wisdom. Thank You, Jesus!

Free Butterfly Flower photo and picture

Where did I find God’s love and favor—His abundant grace—this week?!

This was a fun week full of various social interactions, some planned and unplanned!

I saw a monarch butterfly; I don’t recall the last time I saw one in person! I’m sure I will notice more now that I am aware.

This week, we had another birthday celebration at work. I also enjoyed some good conversation and a couple of lunchtime walks with various coworkers. I am grateful to work with a fabulous group of ladies!

Lydia has naturally curly hair, but we had fun straightening it this week. It was just a whim, not an everyday thing. She has asked to try it many times, and I found a way to do it easily. I don’t expect to do it often, but she was happy when all her friends noticed! 🙂

On Wednesday, I attended an informational meeting at Lydia’s school for a cool opportunity in the Spring. I saw one of her friends, a girl from our neighborhood. They were good friends in grade school, but during COVID, they ended up on different paths. In middle school, they have grown close again. The mom and I got to catch up this week, and I am grateful for another family cheering us on!

On Friday, I mowed again after work since the next several days will be busy. I think the weather is starting to change, so I hope I won’t need to mow too many more times!

Last night and today have a bit of a whirlwind. Last night, Lydia went to hang out with a friend. When I went to pick her up, I talked with the girl’s parents for quite a while, discovering we have some mutual friends. We had such a fun time laughing and playing with their puppy. I even asked for their input on something, and God answered a prayer by giving me peace of mind. Then, I came home and had a good long conversation with my uncle for an hour! It was also very good to chat with him, though it was a late night before an early morning commitment.

Today, we had a special church event in the morning. It was a celebration of sorts and an opportunity to encourage volunteers. We had some yummy food and heard a good message from a visiting pastor. I am grateful for all God has doing!

Tonight, we are meeting up with my Aunt Terry! She came from Illinois to see some of her extended family as she did in 2021. It will be wonderful to see her!

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These are only a few examples, but God’s grace never runs out!

There’s grace in every situation—we just need to look for it. God promises if we seek Him, we will find Him (see Jeremiah 29:13)!

Posted on in Being Gracious, Fear/Don't Fake Brave, Gratitude, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Pivot, Wisdom, Words

On Peace vs. Chaos

For the last two mornings, I woke up earlier than my alarm. I thought about returning to bed, but I decided I probably wouldn’t get much rest. Then, the Holy Spirit has reminded me that I requested extra time in my day to Journible through the book of Galatians. I decided to just go with it!

Even though I am trying to go to bed earlier, I have still been a little short on sleep. But, I know if God wakes me up, then He will cover me. His mercies are new every morning, and His grace is sufficient!

So far, I have spent about twenty minutes copying God’s Word before heading downstairs to exercise. Sometimes, just taking the first step is the most important thing! It has felt good to start my day in a peaceful manner, and it has set my whole day off on a good path!

Galatians is about the Apostle Paul setting early Christians straight and clarifying some significant issues that were creeping in and causing chaos. Some thought they had to keep all the former Jewish laws and were trying to enforce them on others. However, Paul writes about God’s gospel of grace, found in Jesus’ death and resurrection alone.

It’s not about doing more; it’s about drawing close. Nothing more, nothing less.

Free Mountains Lake photo and picture

In light of Jesus’ Good News of grace and forgiveness, there is a stark difference between peace and chaos. Sometimes, chaos results from personal choices, and sometimes, it happens to us (cancer or 9/11 or grief, for example). Chaos feels inevitable if we don’t actively pursue peace. Yes, we must challenge ourselves to remain at peace!

Over the years, I have seen a disturbing pattern. People around me living in chaos, unable to find true peace. They run all over trying a million things, ignoring the Prince of Peace, Jesus. Sadly, the chaos often spills over to affect their families and others around them. Indeed, their poor decisions can impact generations after them in a ripple effect.

Signs of peace may include quiet, clarity, harmony, unity, joy, gratitude, generosity, patience, rest, and a slower pace. Sticking with something long-term and not giving up just because it is difficult indicates a sense of peace. To some, peace may align with boredom, but it brings freedom and space for doing life’s essentials. Not rushing around means I can maintain my priorities and have flexibility in my schedule.

Chaos may come with noise, confusion, distraction, fear, anxiety, anger, blame, flashiness, busyness, frenetic speed, and exhaustion. Ideals and commitments are often tossed aside. Frequently switching jobs, relationships, vehicles, or jobs (chasing novelty) may indicate chaos. There is nothing wrong with novelty, but it can’t be the main thing.

Peace involves guarding your heart, while the trainwreck of chaos causes major heartbreak. I have seen people panic and make huge mistakes that ruined their careers, marriages, and reputations. Some have even lost their homes. Yes, there is forgiveness, but people don’t forget or trust again so easily, and they have struggled to make their comeback. But, there is hope in the midst of turmoil.

“The Lord is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust in him.” This verse is from Nahum 1:7, but we see God calling us to Him all throughout Scripture. Jesus said His peace is different from any ‘sense’ of peace the world offers (overused words like self-care and wellness come to mind… good to a point, but not the final solution!).

In another letter/book, Paul tells us to “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts…” (Colossians 3:15). This means we must give all the chaos to Jesus and let Him calm our hearts. We must give Him full reign and let Him dictate our course.

I sure don’t do everything perfectly, but I am determined to maintain my God-given sense of peace, whatever the cost. That means staying close to Jesus and listening to the Holy Spirit. Asking for His input first, not just making my own assumptions.

Jesus promised us His very own peace, a gift from the Holy Spirit, who lives in those who follow Christ. He planted the spiritual fruit of peace, but we must cultivate it in the right environment. I’m grateful that He is faithful and trustworthy to help us! If we let Him!

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God, thanks for Your overwhelming peace, which anchors me! Help me move at Your pace so that I can maintain my peace. Let my gratitude, generosity, and grace grow so I can spread Your peace to others. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Are you in a season of plentiful peace or constant chaos? What are you doing about it?

Tasks: Be humble and check your heart. Let God lead and make any changes with a joyful heart.