Category: Fear/Don’t Fake Brave

Posted on in Fear/Don't Fake Brave, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Wisdom

The Sun Will Come Out

I hope you are doing well during this time of social distancing!

Not too long ago, Lydia wanted to watch the movie, Annie. We haven’t gotten around to it just yet, but it is a classic. Then, yesterday, I woke up to foggy, gray skies, and the song, “Tomorrow,” came to mind and filled me with hope.

When I’m stuck a with day
That’s gray, and lonely,
I just stick out my chin
And Grin, and say,
Oh

The sun’ll come out
Tomorrow
So ya gotta hang on
‘Til tomorrow
Come what may
Tomorrow, tomorrow
I love ya tomorrow
You’re always a day away

Our present trials (however drastic) are temporary. Although it can feel inconvenient and scary at times, there are many positive things about this quarantine situation.

In fact, a friend of mine likened it to a Sabbath opportunity. Instead of “we have to” we can say “we get to” stay home and enjoy time with family. This forced rest period can be a blessing if we choose to see it that way.

We can grow through adversity, and this situation is still better than most. For example, we are being asked to stay in the comforts of our own homes. Netflix and chill.

Sure, we’ll miss out on our plans, and need to make some sacrifices and adjustments. Yes, it may feel extreme and uncomfortable, but we can do this. After all, this is not war.

Working with Veterans, I see the after-effects of war every week. Quarantine is far better. I’m thankful we can do our part with relative ease.

My grandparents were all part of the Greatest Generation. My grandfathers fought in World War II, and my English grandmother was a war bride. Growing up in Co. Durham, in Northern England, she always said it was a ‘good day’ if they didn’t get bombed. There was the constant threat. Not to mention rations and soldiers going off to war.

Perspective.

Of course, no one knows how long this need for social distancing and quarantine will last. It is hard to see how much difference is made by staying home. In fact, if the coronavirus is contained, it will feel like nothing is happening.

At times, doing the right thing is somewhat boring. But, if “nothing happens,” that’s good! In these uncertain times, a little common sense and a cheerful heart go a long way.

What good can we find in all of this? I have seen resilience and unity and kindness. Hearts in windows, strangers smiling and helping each other. Kids staying calm.

Of course, we are not left on our own. God is right here with us, enabling us to handle these unusual circumstances with grace. We can count on Him!

Stand firm. Stay strong. Don’t give up!

Lydia and I heard the first of many songbirds chirping this week. We have also seen some geese and a spider. I even saw some green grass peeking out from under the snow. 🙂 If we were rushing around like usual, we would have missed these sure signs of spring.

Yes, despite some challenges ahead, we have so much to be thankful for.

We don’t have to be afraid. God is still on His throne. The sun will come out again. After all, God always brings the spring. And, He brings the summer too!

Indeed, we can look forward to greater things. The best is yet to come!

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Heavenly Father, thanks for taking such good care of us. Please give us wisdom, direction, and peace during this time. Help us rely on Your grace and extend it to others. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Are you coping well or do you find social distancing more challenging than expected? How can you make it easier on yourself and others?

Tasks: Social distancing does not mean emotional distance or the end of relationships. Use this time to connect with others via online platforms and video chats! Reach out to your neighbors; perhaps you can help them in creative ways!

Posted on in Fear/Don't Fake Brave, Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Prayer, Wisdom

Finding Grace #211

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?

What a wild week this has been! I definitely felt some anxiety this week but also felt God’s grace surround me. We are doing well, overall, and the stress mostly came from plans changing every five minutes with new coronavirus information. Lydia’s daycare sent out several emails with important updates, and it was difficult to keep up. They did their best, and I am thankful. The guidelines they also received kept changing, hence all the emails.

It is a little difficult to know if I should keep working right now, but while we still have daycare, I feel it is God’s provision. As a healthcare provider, I want to do my part, and trust God to take care of us. But if (when?) daycare is no longer available, I will take that as His guidance to stay home. I’m just rolling with it! Lydia and I do still follow all the CDC guidelines for washing hands, maintaining social distance as best we can, and not running unnecessary errands.

This pandemic has caused many disruptions to everyone’s plans, mine included. I had hoped to travel to Illinois to see family next weekend. However, after some discussion, we all decided it wasn’t worth the risk of getting each other sick. While it is certainly sad to miss out, canceling our plans became an act of love. Plus, I would have probably been in quarantine for two weeks when I returned so as not to bring the illness to work. It is wisest to stay put and help “flatten the curve.”

This week, on the days we stayed home, we watched “Lunch Doodles with Mo Willems.”It was quite moving to watch this author/illustrator take time to connect with his young audience. He shared old files and drawings, answered fan mail, and taught the kids how to draw some of his beloved characters. He also addressed certain emotions, such as being nervous, anxious, and stressed and how we can rely on each other. It was therapeutic for me, too, and he reminded me a little of Mr. Rogers.

On Friday, we picked up Lydia’s school supplies in case they don’t return. Our state is going to start online classwork in the near future. It made me a little sad that the kids will miss out on time together, but I also understand why this is important. I overheard Lydia telling herself she can’t wait to see her friends again. This has been an adjustment for everyone.

Still, Lydia has been such a trooper this week. Her daycare met in two different locations, with another one next week (to maximize resources). Also, being a strong reader, she unknowingly picked up a children’s book on grief. I was unaware until I came upstairs and found her crying. We talked about Dave, Heaven, Jesus, and why bad things happen.

Among many positive other things, I noticed that Lydia got her teeth cleaned, her braces off, and received her retainer before her orthodontist and dentist shut down for the next three weeks. I’m grateful that all the hard work was not “undone” during this time.

I LOVED connecting with friends and family via phone and various video chatting platforms today. I even did a few online meetings (not for work). I am grateful for technology this week! We will get through this together!

That said, this week, I “unplugged” from the news and social media at times. Nonetheless, I read heartwarming stories online, of how people are helping and encouraging each other. I pray that instead of panic, God’s overwhelming peace will reign in our hearts. He’s got this!

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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, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Prayer, Wisdom

Roll With It!

Ah, the world has become a different place overnight! It’s been a little crazy lately!

I’ve seen some really compelling facts and arguments for staying home to protect others and ourselves from illness. And, I’ve seen some pretty funny memes about toilet paper and germs. When all this over, I’d love to see a ‘best of the best’ meme contest!

I’ve replenished my pantry with key staples (though I still haven’t found any TP). I’m not worried, however, because I still have some on hand. In terms of supplies, many of us could be just fine without stocking up for quarantine. We are that blessed.

Even if we do end up eating stuff from the back of the cupboard.

This year has already proven to be a wild card. In fact, this new decade is not what many expected it to be. But God is not surprised, and He is right here with us.

I am still working, and Lydia’s at her daycare program full-time because school is closed this week (likely longer). I’m trying to be as flexible as possible with our plans.

Most of us have had several plans canceled or postponed. Despite the disappointment and uncertainty around us, in terms of traveling, public events, school, and work, we can fully rely on the wisdom and peace God brings.

We may run low on toilet paper, but instead of freaking out, we can roll with it. 🙂 We may not know how to make ends meet, but we can trust God will take care of us. He is our Provider and our Sustainer.

God is still in control. He’s got this.

Even though we face some unknowns, we are better off in terms of resources than many of those who came before us. We will get through this together.

This is a huge challenge, but we are still quite well off. We have history to show us what has worked in all the other plagues and viruses. By using wisdom, caution, and social distancing, we can hopefully slow the trajectory and “flatten the curve.”

I’m so grateful for science and technology! Some online newspapers are providing free access so we can stay up-to-date. Many churches have moved weekly services online.

We have electricity, running water, and the internet. We can exercise, clean, work on projects, learn a new skill, and call loved ones. We have books, television, puzzles, games, and chocolate. In many ways, God has given us the gift of family time and a slower pace.

In all of the chaos and negative press, I have seen some good news, too! I saw an article saying air quality has improved worldwide because factories have trimmed hours (and perhaps jobs, sadly). The full impact remains to be seen.

Overall, I’ve seen a wonderful outpouring of generosity, community, and compassion.

Certain stores are catering to the elderly and others who are at the highest risk. Lydia’s daycare even made cards for local nursing home residents.

Online, many teachers have volunteered to help parents with educational questions so their students don’t fall behind. Other resources are being made available for free to promote learning. Various people are posting videos of them reading children’s books. I love that the zoos and museums are providing virtual tours.

Let’s use this time to reset, reprioritize what matters, and rest in God’s grace.

Moms have stepped up to support each other and take care of children without daycare. In fact, two local friends have offered to help with Lydia in a pinch. I haven’t needed the support (yet), but I am grateful for the options.

Yo-Yo Ma and several other musicians have posted beautiful songs to bring comfort. They are using their gifts, talents, and resources to serve others and set the tone for the rest of us. What an example!

A gym trainer in Spain led his community in an exercise program from the top of his roof, while everyone else was on their respective balconies. Similarly, some gyms are posting free workout videos for everyone (even for nonmembers).

Here are some other creative ways to roll with it: Share a roll of TP. Make cinnamon rolls or dinner rolls (get in the kitchen). Roll a camera (make memories). Roll on some paint (home improvements). Roll dice (boardgames, not gambling!). Roll a ball or roller skate (exercise). Shake, rattle, and roll (find joy and have fun). 🙂

This particular situation is hard on everyone. No one is free from risk. But we can all help someone else (even remotely from home via Zoom or Google Hangouts). We can be the church we are called to be.

Whether we feel ready or not, the situation is what it is. We can pray and be prepared, but we don’t have to panic or be afraid. We can use this time to draw closer to Jesus.

We can come up with new ways to solve problems. Necessity is the mother of invention, right? Maybe future generations will learn from us in their time of great need.

Let’s make the best of this situation. Our minor inconveniences of social distancing has potential can literally save lives. There is always something to be thankful for.

And, we know that God will use this all for our good.

**********

Heavenly Father, thanks for Your protection and provision. Help us share Your light and love with others. Draw all of us closer to You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: How are you doing? What is good today? What are you learning through this time? Is there someone you can encourage today?

Tasks: Listen to Matt Maher’s new song, “Alive and Breathing.” Find the good. Praise God!

Posted on in Fear/Don't Fake Brave, Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Wisdom

Finding Grace #210

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?

At times, this week felt impossible! Several of my normal activities took extra time or effort. I didn’t feel like I was fully prepared; instead, it was like I was pinch-hitting all week. Thankfully, God was with me and covered each situation with His grace!

This week included many good things, such as Lydia’s school conference and a fun outing with my coworkers. A couple of friends in my ladies’ small group couldn’t make it on Thursday, so I ended up canceling it altogether. I needed a break and am glad I was able to rest and regroup. I think we are still adjusting to the spring time change!

On the other hand, this week was a little crazy for other reasons. Mainly, the coronavirus has lots of people concerned and is disrupting many of our routines. I haven’t personally had much impact (yet), in terms of church, school, or daycare, but we are screening staff and patients at the hospital where I work. We will see how things change in the coming days and weeks. It is wise to be prepared, but not give in to panic or fear.

And, online, life was rather chaotic, with news clips from around the world, arguments, and memes about toilet paper and food and water shortages. Some people are skipping events that have not already been canceled, and others are moving forward with caution. Please do what you feel best for you and your family. Take a break from social media, if needed, wash your hands, and stay home if you are sick!

Despite the overwhelming nature of this week, I have read many encouraging posts about people looking out for others. As Christians, we especially have nothing to fear. We can trust God and meet the needs of those around us. This article by C.S. Lewis was timely! It has also been interesting to read about previous epidemics and diseases that have now been irradicated through vaccines and modern medicine.

Sometimes life is rough. But, God is always good!

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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 Fear/Don't Fake Brave, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Wisdom

Be Prepared, Not Afraid

I don’t know about you, but I could use some good news right now!

The media sure has its hands full with a world-wide epidemic during an election year!

I heard from friends in Italy (and a few other places close to home) discussing the impact of quarantine due to the Coronavirus. I also followed various media posts about people stocking up on bottled water, hand sanitizer, and toilet paper (among other necessities).

I have friends near Nashville, Tennessee, so the recent tornado that went through was quite scary. Everyone I know is safe, however, many others suffered devastating losses.

I heard a sad update yesterday that a local mom’s cancer journey is coming to an end… not the one we had hoped and prayed for. She has young children, making it all more heartbreaking.

I have had my own challenges this week, and I am sure you have, too!

Yes, bad news abounds, but we don’t have to be afraid of the unknowns.

It’s wise to be prepared for trials, but we don’t need to give in to fear.

It is wise to be informed, but we don’t need to panic.

Fear has no place in light of God’s mercy and grace.

He’s got this.

Despite life’s ups and downs, we can be grateful and cling to our Anchor.

When life gets tough and we feel overwhelmed, we can take refuge in Jesus.

We don’t have to worry and try to figure out all the details on our own.

He is the God of both BIG things and SMALL things. Nothing is impossible for Him.

There is no need for any confusion or despair! Just come to Jesus!

Trust Him and do what He says. He will prepare us and give us everything we need.

Yesterday, I listened to the radio in my car as I often do. The songs I heard helped me focus on God’s goodness and provision instead of my concerns and inabilities.

It seemed the songs were handpicked to what I was going through at that moment. The words were just what I needed to feel God’s peace and presence.

Seeing our problems from God’s perspective always changes ours!

Now that’s good news!

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Heavenly Father, thanks for Your peace, presence, and provision. You are so good and Your love never fails! Fill me with perseverance. I will not fear!! In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: In times of trouble, what is your reaction? Do you run around like Chicken Little telling everyone the sky is falling? Or, do you run to Jesus telling everyone how faithful He is?!

Tasks: Next time you feel overwhelmed by life or what you hear in the news, STOP immediately. Go straight to the Lord and get His perspective. Let His peace overwhelm you.

 

 

Posted on in Being Gracious, Fear/Don't Fake Brave, Miscellaneous, Parenting, Perseverance, Prayer, Wisdom

Expect the Impossible

It is amazing what God does when we let go of our own expectations and place them fully on Christ. What seemed impossible one minute is DONE the next!

Of course, sometimes it takes a little more time and a little more prayer.

But, Jesus always comes through for us!

Early last week, Lydia had her braces removed, and then I spent the rest of the week coaching her about her retainer. She hadn’t received it yet, but I was concerned she would accidentally break it, drop it, lose it, or toss it in the trash.

She is very reliable normally, but a replacement retainer is costly!

Then, yesterday, Lydia received the retainer before she went to school. And guess what? She doesn’t have to remove it for eating! I never had braces or a retainer, so this was a pleasant surprise for me. I realized perhaps I was worried about nothing.

In some ways, God did the impossible. Lydia got the type of retainer she can leave in at school, and I received peace of mind. Hopefully, this retainer lasts a long time, but the odds certainly went up in our favor!

Then, later in the day, as I was listening to the radio, I heard someone say, “Don’t borrow sorrows from tomorrow.” That was both catchy and somewhat ironic. 😉

“God doesn’t expect the impossible from us. He wants us to expect the impossible from Him!” –DL Moody

Then, last night, immediately after I saw the quote above, God did something that would have been impossible otherwise. I had a much-needed conversation with a close friend. I’m extremely grateful we were able to clear the air and move forward in friendship.

Honestly, I think we were both on the fence about our relationship. (We both had good reasons for how we felt, but it’s just like Satan to divide us and makes us upset at each other!)

I had been prayerfully trying to decide what to do, and God provided the opportunity in His timing. If I had spoken up earlier, it probably would have been a different outcome.

Again, each circumstance is unique, but we can trust God knows how to handle them in the best way possible. He loves each of us far more than we can ever understand and wants to help us beyond what we can imagine. He wants us to expect big things from Him!

Let’s turn our worries into prayers, knowing that nothing is impossible for Jesus!

He’s got this!

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Heavenly Father, thanks for always coming through for us. You never fail! Help us rely on your timing and expect the impossible. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Question: What impossible situation do you need to bring to the Lord?

Tasks: Whatever challenges you are facing, let go of your expectations and place them fully on Jesus. REFUSE to let your emotions get the best of you. Don’t move for any other reason other than a God-given opportunity. This takes discernment and prayer, but God will make it clear when the timing is right!

 

 

Posted on in Fear/Don't Fake Brave, Journey of Grace, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Wisdom

There’s Always a Catch!

Have you ever noticed how when one thing starts going right, something else seems to go wrong? For example, when the washing machine finally gets fixed, the drier needs repaired or the laundry detergent runs out. Or, you finally remember a coupon at the grocery store but find out it has expired.

Why is there always a catch?

You may leave for work extra early but still get stuck in traffic. Or, you get your oil changed but then your breaks start squeaking. Or, you waited to go sledding until the wind finally dies down but then the bitter cold settles in.

Why can’t we get a break?

At this time of year, for some people, life can seem to close in as we are reminded of all we are missing or all that has been lost. Perhaps you’ve lost a job or relationship. Perhaps life has just turned out differently than expected.

Years ago, I discovered an interesting Bible verse in my own grief. Deuteronomy 33:27 says, “The eternal God is your refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms.” At first, it seems like an odd verse. Underneath are the everlasting arms…say what?

But when my late husband, Dave, died, I gained more understanding. Emotionally, it felt like the floor literally fell out from underneath my feet. My life was changed in an instant. But soon, that same verse brought me great comfort as I envisioned God catching me and drawing me near.

For those in the midst of intense grief, it can feel like you are falling with no place to land. It can be difficult to know which way is up. It might even feel like things will never get better. I get it. I’ve been there, too.

But, God caught me… and I know He will catch you too!

Maybe the Christmas season has you feeling down. Yet, that’s why Jesus came. He came not to simply bring light to the darkness, but to BE the light that extinguishes it.

Jesus came not to just fix what was broken but to give us a new purpose. He came not just to rescue us, but to give us a new life in Him. He is our living Hope.

During the holidays, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement or stuck in our emotions. In both cases, we risk missing Jesus altogether. Thankfully, with God, there’s always a catch!

Jesus is our Rescuer.

When life gets chaotic, free-fall into God’s open arms. He’s waiting for you, so cling to Him. Whatever you are going through today, whether it is exciting or exhausting, invite Jesus in. He’s got you surrounded in grace and peace.

Let Him catch you and comfort you. His love never fails!

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Heavenly Father, thanks for sending Jesus, Our Rescuer. Thanks for catching us and holding us close. Please keep us focused on You instead of our circumstances. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Are there any Bible verses that you have found odd only to understand later on in a more personal way? If so, share in the comments!

Task: Listen to the song, “Power of Your Love,” sung by Darlene Zschech. Make it your heart’s cry and draw close to Jesus.

 

Posted on in Being Gracious, Fear/Don't Fake Brave, Journey of Grace, Miscellaneous, Perseverance

Holiday Grieving Tips

It’s that time of year again. The holidays.

While this season is a time of celebration for most people, grief can make it particularly tough. When we miss loved ones (or are working through other losses), every day can be a struggle. It can be difficult to focus when the holiday season moves so fast.

If you’re dealing with grief this year, whether your loss is fresh or not, it still hurts. From special events to favorite songs or foods…nothing is the same anymore.

This is my seventh holiday season without my late husband, Dave. Each year has been so different, but thankfully, I have learned to keep an open mind and to keep it simple.

I have also learned to lay aside most expectations during this time. I don’t feel the need to attend every party. I don’t feel like I have to fake brave or fake holiday cheer. That doesn’t mean other people should have to feel how I do, but my feelings have a place too.

I always recommend talking about how you are feeling. Telling stories about loved ones we are missing honors them and can bring healing. A trusted friend can provide extra support and encouragement. Having someone listen without judgment is a true gift!

Similarly, serving others can also provide a way to shift our focus. As we meet the needs around us, we will see the beauty and joy God provides for us and through us.

The holiday season also includes Lydia’s birthday, Dave’s birthday, and our anniversary. So, each year is a toss-up on if/how I decorate, travel, or make certain festive foods…

There is freedom in playing it all by ear and not feeling pressure to figure it all out.

This year feels much better so far, but I am still taking each day as it comes. So far, I have watched Christmas movies, put up our tree, and have made special treats with Lydia!

I also have paid for snow removal services to ease the burden a little.

It won’t happen overnight, but the pain does feel better in time. Just stay close to Jesus and honor where you are right now. It will be alright.

Recently, I have found it helpful to review just how far God has brought me. While He continues to write your story, I pray you will find encouragement in these throwback posts:

Tidings of Comfort and Joy

Hope and Healing for the Holidays

Gifts Galore

O Christmas Tree

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Heavenly Father, thanks for Your grace and faithfulness! You are so good. Help me lean on You today and always. Bring peace and comfort to those who are heartbroken this season. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: How are you preparing for the holidays? Are you looking forward to all the celebrations or eager for them to be over already?

Tasks: I would love to pray for you during this season, especially if you are struggling with grief and loss. You can reach me through email at:  nat.grace.lemonade@gmail.com

 

 

 

Posted on in Fear/Don't Fake Brave, Miscellaneous, Perfectionism, Perseverance, Personality, Prayer, Wisdom, Worship

The Beauty of Fractals

Recently, I requested and received feedback for a project I’ve been working on. My project was reviewed, and in due time, I was told it is “middling.”

Mediocre, so-so, and average are synonyms for this word. Perhaps the feedback was meant as constructive criticism, but at the time, it really hurt.

It’s not that I disagreed. I intentionally try to keep things simple! I purposely try to ‘make plain’ difficult concepts and help people understand so they can take effective action.

So, to help me deal with my initial reaction, I prayed about it. Thankfully, I realized one person doesn’t have the final say on my project. There are several other factors to consider. 

I shouldn’t disregard the feedback entirely, and I do need to make some changes. But regardless of what happens, I shouldn’t stress about other people’s expectations.

I will do my best, but I don’t need to impress people by ‘glamorizing’ my project. It’s just not who I am. In fact, I often get lost in the details and suspect many others do, too.

I have decided if my project brings me joy, that is a good indicator I am on the right track. I believe God is pleased with my project, and my joy is just as important as my effort.

Around the same time, I learned more about another topic, called “fractal geometry.” This is the real-world application of mathematic principles.

For instance, there are formulas to calculate how much space comprises a cone or pyramid. Traditional geometry works great in theory, but a mountain is not a true cone or pyramid. It has crags and is otherwise ‘misshapen.’ 

Thus, fractal geometry allows us to adjust and use the information to meet our needs. There is much beauty in the asymmetry and imperfection of fractals.

Every coastline has nonlinear jags and is constantly changing thanks to erosion. Also, tree bark is not an exact sphere, and neither branches nor leaves are spaced evenly. In fact, each tree species has its own special pattern that defies theoretical calculations.

Snowflakes, rivers, and blood vessels have fractal qualities, too. So do we!

God has designed us each uniquely. Thus, we really can’t compare one of us to another.

Each of us was designed by God to live for Him and bring Him praise. But each of us does that differently. Even if we sing the same song, our voices are different. And, the gratitude with which we sing is also unique to the challenges we have faced.

Together, my small group ladies read the YouVersion devotional called, “Double Blessing.” It is based on the new book by Mark Batterson. The author mentioned the complexity of fractals and something called a Mandelbrot set.

Mr. Batterson also explained how in Lamentations 3:22-23, it says God’s mercies are new every morning, but that word “new” also implies “different” mercies. There are no repeats. God always matches His mercies to our individual circumstances and obstacles.

Even if we do similar things every day, the pattern is always slightly different. God meets us there and provides His mercy and grace in just the right amount. No two days or experiences are exactly alike. Isn’t that amazing?!

I don’t know what your circumstances are today. I hope everything is going well for you, but even if it’s not, I pray you will trust in God’s mercies.

Perhaps, like me, you have been told you aren’t good at something. But that doesn’t mean you are good at nothing. If God has called you to do something for Him, He will provide the ideas, skills, resources, and perfect timing. Trust Him!

That doesn’t mean everything will come easy to you. If it’s worth doing, it will likely take hard work, diligence, and perseverance. But, God will help you and give you the ability!

God has a good, specially-designed purpose for you! Of course, Life is full of random expectations and hoops to jump through, but you don’t have to live for other people’s feedback. Sift through what is necessary and adjust your own expectations. Then, walk in your God-given strengths and trust Him to cover Your weaknesses. He is faithful!

As long as you are doing your best, don’t worry about proving yourself. Just follow Jesus, and He will take care of the rest. He will empower you to walk in His plan.

Remember, God’s mercies are both new and different every day. There is always enough time and grace to live for Him. His love never fails!

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Heavenly Father, I praise You because I am fearfully and wonderfully made! Please help me live for your approval only. Help me wisely discern the feedback I receive. Help me walk the unique path You have designed for me. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: How can you praise God in a way no one else can? Does the concept of fractals change anything for you?

Tasks: Start looking for ‘fractals’ in everyday life! They are all around us! Praise God for all the ways He works in your life. Write down how He has been faithful to you!

Posted on in Fear/Don't Fake Brave, Life is Short, Miscellaneous

Forever Grateful

Lydia came home yesterday from school and told me about her day. She said one of the best parts of her day was in gym class. She told me about an obstacle course the students completed in the spirit of celebrating Veterans Day.

There was no school on Monday due to the holiday, so her class celebrated later. Each student pretended to be a soldier and had to climb, jump, crawl, swing, etc. through a series of challenges. At home, Lydia happily showed me examples in our basement work out area. She told me I had to use my imagination, of course!

We briefly discussed how difficult it must be to be a real-life soldier… and how we can honor them and be grateful for them. It was interesting to hear Lydia’s perspective.

Now that I work with Veterans (and only Veterans), I am more in tune with the struggles they face. I will never fully understand those issues, but I appreciate their many sacrifices on my behalf. Without Veterans and an active military, who knows how our lives could be?

It is quite humbling when you think about it.

The best way to show our gratitude is to live in such a way as to honor these brave men and women. As we celebrate our many freedoms, that may look different for each of us.

In short, we can each spend our time, money, and other resources in unique ways.

That’s part of the beauty of being free! We have the ability to choose.

All gave some. Some gave all.

Of course, Jesus Christ also gave His all for us. It cost him everything. He gave us the ultimate freedom from sin and the gift of eternal life with Him.

I’m forever grateful. Our lives are (and can be) changed because Jesus gave His. 

Because of Jesus, we are free from fear. What a relief! We don’t have to be afraid!

Also, we are free to be kind and generous toward others, even if they cannot repay us. We can have daily peace and joy regardless of our circumstances. We can do what is right without worrying about what other people think.

The list goes on and on.

Again, how we use our various freedoms will surely look different depending on many factors. Don’t compare yourself to anyone else. Just walk in grace and freedom… and be grateful.

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Jesus, thanks for dying for us and buying us freedom! Help us walk freely in Your grace and love. Help us take nothing You’ve given us for granted. Help us be wise! In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: What American freedoms are you most thankful for? How do you show your gratitude to all those who have fought for our freedom?

Tasks: Write a thank you note to a Veteran or active soldier and listen to his or her experiences (if they are willing to share). Visit a National Cemetery to honor sacrifices made on your behalf. In Fargo, check out the newly dedicated Fargo National Cemetery!