Category: Personality

Personality-based information and thoughts

Posted on in Gratitude, Kindness, Miscellaneous, Perfectionism, Perseverance, Personality, Wisdom, Worship

As Close As You Want To Be

Three separate, somewhat random sayings came to me yesterday morning while I was getting ready for work.

You are only as close to God as you want to be.

If you want what they have, are you willing to do what they did to get it?

Comparison is the thief of joy.

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Here’s the short backstory: I was thinking about a picture I saw recently filled with some great people I don’t know very well… Well, this is off to a good start, right?!

Even though I have tried to get to know them better at various times, we just run in different social circles. I’m sure it’s nothing personal, and they are kind when we happen to run into each other. They are just busy serving God and going about their days, as am I. 

Still, for a split second, I started to compare my walk with God with how I perceived theirs must be. Perhaps they pray more or read their Bible more… If I were more spiritual, maybe I could… 

STOP. Thankfully, I nixed that game before it got out of hand!

While each of the three phrases is noteworthy on its own, yesterday, they somehow all seemed to converge together. For me, they felt like a personal reminder, or perhaps a timely challenge. So here goes!

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You are only as close to God as you want to be. God is never far from us, though sometimes we feel like He is nowhere to be found. The good news is that’s simply not true. Our emotions can change quickly, but the Lord is always faithful, steady. Nonetheless, connecting with God takes time, effort, and intention. Thankfully, He is infinitely patient and wise. Yes, God makes Himself known to those who seek Him and want to know Him.

Gut check: Are you just skimping by on quick, little prayers and random online Bible quotes, or are you really digging deep into God’s Word? Do you come to Jesus several times a day, or just on Sunday mornings? Do you run to Him first, or as a last resort?

If you want what they have, are you willing to do what they did to get it? This one could be a bit convicting, though it doesn’t have to be. Perhaps those people are praying more than me or reading their Bibles more than me. That’s wonderful… if it’s true. I really can’t know for sure, and I am not responsible for them. Besides, I don’t know all the sacrifices they have had to make!

I am only in charge of what God has put on my plate, and I can rest in that freedom. When I consider all that is, well, He must think I am pretty capable. I don’t have it all together, but neither do the people in that photo. The little I know them, I’m pretty sure they would agree.

Gut check: I can only do my best, but am I actually doing my best? Or could I do better? Spiritually, how does this look? Am I willing to sacrifice more, or do I need to be content with my resources and limitations?

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And finally… Comparison is the thief of joy. This adage is so true. Thankfully, I caught those thoughts and bent them toward making me better, not bitter.

Of course, life isn’t automatically easy for anyone. Perhaps the grass is greener on the other side because they are watering the grass. Or, perhaps God decided to bless them with rain, so they could focus on other things He has asked them to do. Both situations require a decent amount of God’s grace, plus a good deal of faith and a whole lotta elbow grease. 

Gut check: Am I spending adequate time with Jesus, letting Him be my all in all? Am I being obedient and walking in peace? Or am I getting sidetracked with sin and/or envy? 

Ultimately, I don’t have to compare my life or walk with Jesus to anyone else’s. I just need to stay close to Jesus and walk humbly with Him, grateful for where I am at this moment. He is so good and has good things in store for me!!

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God, thanks for all the wonderful ways You have blessed me. Help me not take You for granted, but put You above all else. Help me have a good attitude, think the best of others, and do what you have called me to do. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Which of those phrases stood out to you today? How can you apply them in your life?

Task: If you are feeling far away from the Lord, reconnect with Him this very moment! He draws close to those who draw close to Him (James 4:8). Don’t delay; just come as you are!

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Gratitude, Kindness, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Personality

Radiant

This week, I have found myself laughing and smiling a lot. I don’t know that it is related to anything in particular, just lots of little things!

For starters, I had some great conversations with friends and family. The weather has been beautiful, and I noticed some lovely flowers in bloom. I took advantage of some good sales and had some fun memories pop up on social media. I am feeling strong after a couple of good weight lifting workouts… and, hey, I have had a good hair week thus far (#priorities). 😉

I have had some noteworthy patient interactions and received compliments on my skills! Also, one of my coworkers parked next to me, so we walked in together one morning. We have the same first name, and we sometimes joke that two Natalies are better than one! It’s just one of many fun things that have happened at work so far this week!

And, a couple of patient cancellations and no-shows gave me extra time to finish my work. Whew! Then, that gave me mental space to focus on some other things.

As I have had a little more time to reflect, the word RADIANT popped into my mind. Now, maybe your first thought is related to Charlottes’ Web, but I think of God’s glory, goodness, and grace!

Speaking of smiles and the word RADIANT, in a quick follow-up from last week, have you seen the pictures from the James Webb telescope?! Wow! I am in awe!

For me, the pictures are glorious examples of our Creator’s majesty. 1 Corinthians 2:9 says, “…’No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love him.'”

Colossians 1:16-17 (NLT) says, “for through him God created everything in the heavenly realms and on earth. He made the things we can see and the things we can’t see—such as thrones, kingdoms, rulers, and authorities in the unseen world. Everything was created through him and for him. He existed before anything else, and he holds all creation together.”

Imagine what Heaven will be like!

I am sure God is tickled to let us in on this ‘secret’ of the universe… showing off His handiwork! You know, He has a wonderful plan, yet most of it is far beyond anything we can fathom. It’s mindblowing to think we only know a small part of all God is doing in this vast universe. Yet at the same time, He is right here with us. 

Psalm 34:5 says, “Those who look to him are radiant, and their faces shall never be ashamed.” Some days are tough, sure. But with Jesus, we always have a reason to smile! We can trust Him, and because He is in control, we don’t have to worry. Let Him show you His power and might. The one who plays with the stars like baubles holds you even closer!

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Wow, God, I am in awe of Your radiant majesty! Thanks for showing us a little more of who You are this week. Help us walk with smiling joy and excitement knowing You have good things in store! In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Question: What is your favorite picture from the James Webb space telescope? (I love the depth and color of the Carina Nebula, but pretty much all the rest, too!)

Task: Check out this worship song from Hillsong United, “So Will I (100 Billion X).”

Posted on in Kindness, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Personality, Pivot, Wisdom

Stay the Course

If you are ready to give up, give in, throw in the towel, or put a fork in it (you’re done), this post is for you! There are so many things coming at us every day. Life sure is chaotic at times! If you are feeling drained, keep reading!

Some internal factors include the daily stress of getting out the door or getting everything done. Then, add in pain, grief, loneliness, anxiety,  PTSD, financial issues, or chronic health conditions, etc.

Externally, everything from the news to the weather counts. Every week, it seems we keep getting hit by one horrible tragedy after another. Wars, famine, violence, death, and more. These are very real problems with no clear solution.

On a smaller level, work is time-consuming (at the least) and relationships can be messy. It’s tough to gain momentum. Life is tough, no doubt, and it may not get easier any time soon.

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Perhaps you are simply tired of waiting for things to change. It’s easy to get antsy or even bored, tired of the same old problems. You’re all ready to pivot toward the new and shiny, but wait! You may not fully understand the problems that come with those gains (because you know there will be problems and challenges, there too!).

Yes, sometimes we crave busyness and excitement, but when we have that we crave the calm of peace and quiet. Generally, it is good to be content wherever we are right now. Though, sometimes God does use discontent to get us on board with the next steps.

Either way, I want to challenge you today: Stay the course. If you are waiting for life to fall into place, you are in good company. I understand your frustration when it seems your prayers have gone nowhere, but God has not forgotten you! You can still choose to enjoy life today.

Maybe He has you in a holding pattern, just a little longer to finishing preparing you or the next set of circumstances. You can keep serving with joy where you are now. All around us people need His love and help!

The problem is we feel like it’s all on us. Some of us work day in and day out to get ahead. But, as Christ-followers, we walk by faith, which means trusting even when we can’t see the path before us. By faith, stay the course and stay close to God.

If you don’t know what to do, stay put. Don’t move until God says to move. If you don’t know what’s next, seek His input. That alone can save you a lot of heartache… and time, if you have to undo mistakes.

If you’re struggling with patience, remember that’s a fruit of the Holy Spirit. He put it in you and wants to cultivate it in your life! You are not alone in your struggle. Let Him help!

If you recall, STRESS can be an acronym for “Still Trying to Run the Entire Solar System.” But, remember, the One who created the stars and calls them by name also made you on purpose and knows you personally.

Just like God hung the stars and guides them, if you let Him, He will guide you, too. He has a wonderful plan for your life, and He is able to redirect you as needed. Stay the course.

God never grows tired or weary, so He’s always got your back. He cares about what concerns you, more than you could ever know. What God has for you, is for you.

As long as you are walking close in step with Him, God Almighty will make sure you get all that He has for you. You don’t have to be afraid of missing out. He is trustworthy and your life is not a small thing to Him… You are covered in His mercy and grace!

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God, You hold all things together in Christ, from outer space to a teeny-tiny ant hill! Thanks for holding my life together, too. You are so good, Lord. Help me trust You more with all the challenges in my life. Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Are you dealing with S.T.R.E.S.S.?? How can you trust God with it all today?

Tasks: Make a list of all that is bothering you, or the pros and cons of a specific situation. Then, look at it in light of God’s grace and goodness. Wait on Him, and see Him work it out on your behalf. Trust Him!

Posted on in Gratitude, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Parenting, Personality, Travel, Worship

Go With the Flow

Last weekend, Lydia and I took a little road trip a few hours into Minnesota! On Saturday, we visited Safari North Wildlife Park, near Brainerd. We fed the giraffes carrots and the parakeets millet. We enjoyed seeing cheetahs, lions, tigers, and bears (oh my!); several types of monkeys and birds (some I had never seen before); kangaroos and wallabies; plus, gazelles, zebras, and ostriches, just to name a few.

We had been wanting to go for a while. In fact, we were going to go a couple of weeks ago to commemorate the anniversary of Dave’s death, but the weather seemed iffy, so we didn’t. Emotionally, I was on the fence because I wasn’t sure what to expect. So, I gave Lydia a fun Yes Day instead.

Even this past weekend, I wasn’t sure if we were going to go. I don’t know the area very well, and I wasn’t sure if there was anything else to do. Plus, there was another chance of rain the entire holiday weekend.

Nonetheless, a conversation with my coworker stirred my imagination and helped me lean toward going. She was telling me of a quick trip to Florida she was taking over the holiday weekend, a babymoon of sorts. They didn’t have much planned but were going to make the most of their time, go with the flow, and lounge on the beach.

On a personal note, I was inspired to just have fun since life is so short. On Friday after work, I ran some errands and was going to just relax. Then, I remembered my coworker’s enthusiasm and suggestions for things to do near Brainerd.

On a whim, I decided we should go that very day! It was a beautiful, warm, sunny day, and while I couldn’t predict the rain, my weather app showed about a forty percent chance later on Saturday afternoon. So, we had a decent amount of time to travel and still accomplish our goal!

I picked up Lydia from daycare and made my proposal. She quickly agreed to throw whatever she could into her backpack and hop in the car. I am so proud of us… we didn’t overpack! We each took one change of clothes, a swimsuit, our toothbrushes, and plus a few other small necessities, but that was it! I knew if we really forgot something major, we could just buy it or do without.

We made a hotel reservation before leaving home. Then, we drove about 2.5 hours to Baxter, MN (next door to Brainerd). I soon realized it was good to break up the drive between two days instead of one long day. On the way, Lydia and I surveyed the scenery and some Amish horses and carts driving along the highway! We also enjoyed some music, laughter, and conversation.

At one point, we heard the song “Jireh” by Maverick City Music on the radio. Lydia asked me what Jireh means. It was a name given to God by Abraham. Jehovah Jireh means ‘The Lord will Provide’ and I reminded Lydia of the story of Abraham and Isaac. Abraham was stopped just before sacrificing his son, Isaac, only to have God provide a ram in the thicket that day… I told her, “It was as if God said, I don’t need you to sacrifice your son for Me, but instead, ‘I will sacrifice my son, Jesus, for you.'”

We also discussed how we had no real plan, but that it was the perfect opportunity for us to trust God. We didn’t know where we would eat dinner, but we knew He would provide. We didn’t have all the details about the zoo, but we would figure it out as we went. We weren’t sure if it would rain, but we were doing our best (by coming early) and trusting God with the rest.

Well, we ended up having pizza for dinner and went on a brief mission to see a couple of local lakes before swimming and watching cable tv at the hotel. On Saturday, we slept in, bought Lydia a Caterpillar hat to combat the sun (a quick stop at Fleet Farm), and then headed to the zoo. I’m glad we came the night before and decided to go with the flow!

Turns out, that day was perfect to be outside with the animals. It was a little cooler and cloudy having rained overnight. So, the animals were wide awake and active! I’m glad we didn’t wait a couple more weeks when it surely will be hot!

We really enjoyed seeing so many animals! We were there for about four hours and could have stayed longer! However, we decided to head back and continue enjoying our long weekend at home. We had the best time together, and it was sweet that God blessed us with an impromptu adventure!

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God, thanks for leading us on an adventure with You. Thanks for being our Provider. We do not need to worry or be afraid because You have us covered. Help us trust Your plans are greater than ours! In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: How has God provided for you lately? What is your favorite zoo animal?

Tasks: Listen to the song, Jireh, and trust God for your next adventure!

Posted on in Gratitude, Journey of Grace, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Parenting, Personality, Wisdom

Yes Day!!

Last Saturday, Lydia and I had a Yes day as we honored Dave’s ninth anniversary of being in Heaven (Sunday). She was so excited to call the shots! While we certainly miss him, we chose to celebrate instead of being sad.

To start, Lydia woke up at 6:50 a.m. which is pretty early for her on a Saturday! She asked if she could have a small cookie for breakfast. “Well… YES!!” I said. We never do that, so I wasn’t too worried about it.

While she ate her cookie, and I ate peanut butter toast, we finished a movie we started the night before. Then, we made a plan for the day. Lydia had a long list of things she wanted to accomplish!

Free vector graphics of Yes

Our first stop was PetSmart, just to look around. We saw some fish and some kittens for adoption. Next door, Lydia wanted to have a shopping spree at Michael’s. Thankfully, she had a gift card and was able to buy a couple of art organizers and some Washi tape.

Then, we went to Ulta because I had a gift card. (She cheerfully agreed to let me hijack her day.) As I looked around, Lydia found some blue fake stick-on nails. Not my fancy, but of course, I said yes!

After that, we ate lunch at Panera. We each had a You-Pick-Two salad and flat-bread pizza. I offered to share, but Lydia wanted her own. She laughed when I pointed out that we both took home leftovers!

The mall was next on her list. She wanted to go to a candy-and-toy store and Bath and Body Works. We also walked to one end to see the fountain and the other end to see some puppies. I asked if we could stop at the kitchen store for some chili-infused garlic oil and jalapeno lime vinegar. A patient told me about the combination, and I was not disappointed!

We made a few purchases at the mall before heading off for boba tea. I really didn’t want to try it, but I asked questions to help Lydia decide what to order. In the end, it sounded interesting after all! Lydia ordered a fruity tea with fruit bobas. I tried a tea with milk and ‘brown sugar boba’… a little hard to describe, but tasty! We each brought home our drinks to enjoy later.

We went home to regroup and put our leftovers away. We put on Lydia’s nails; the process was a little confusing at first but ended up being easy. We also attached some little charms to her Crocs. She was sooo happy and grateful!

We then headed out to a cookie dough and ice cream place. We decided to eat dinner at home first (leftovers) and saved our treats for later. Lydia ended up forgetting about hers in the freezer, which is fine by me. 😉 We ended the night by watching the new cartoon movie, “Bad Guys.” We liked it!

I loved spending time with my girl! The idea of a Yes day was based on a book and movie, where the parents say yes to every request (within certain parameters). I enjoyed seeing Lydia’s idea of fun and automatically agreeing to her plan. She already has ideas for whenever her next Yes day comes around!

As a parent, I spend a lot of time saying no, so it was different saying yes for a day. I was able to relax because I wasn’t automatically thinking of all the other things that needed to get done or why something wasn’t possible in the moment. “No, we have to get the laundry done first… No, you can’t do that right now… No, you don’t need another one of those…”

Bedtime ended up being where all of the day’s excitement hit the fan, so to speak. Lydia grew quiet and sad, missing Dave. This happens sometimes and I just roll with it as best I can, praying for wisdom along the way. We shared tears and her final request for a ten-minute massage seemed to help.

At some point in the day, I was reminded of the verse in 2 Corinthians 1:20, which says, “For no matter how many promises God has made, they are ‘Yes’ in Christ. And so through him, the ‘Amen’ is spoken by us to the glory of God.”

No matter how tough Life gets, God never lets us down. While He doesn’t always say YES to all of our requests, He is always working out the ultimate yes in Christ. We can trust Him to do what is best for us!

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God, You are so good. Thanks for always doing what is right for us. Even Your no is a yes in the end! Help us to trust You more. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Question: When was the last time you set aside your to-do list or other expectations to have a yes day or a free day?!

Task: Here is the trailer to the movie, “Yes Day,” in case you want to check it out!

Posted on in Being Gracious, Fear/Don't Fake Brave, Gratitude, Kindness, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Parenting, Personality, Prayer, Wisdom, Words

Bedtime Bombshells

Other children at bedtime: “I’m thirsty. It’s dark, I can’t sleep. I’m not ready for bed.”
 
My conscientious child: “Mom, can you set up these child protections because I keep wanting to use the iPad when I know I shouldn’t, and I don’t want to lie when you ask me about it.”
Thankfully, our nightly routine is a place of safety and trust! I don’t always feel prepared for these ‘bedtime bombshells,’ but I lean on God’s wisdom as I chat with Lydia.
(Regarding the tablet, I do monitor her usage, but together we decided this was a good opportunity to practice self-control, so we decided to try moving the tablet to make it less convenient and see if she is able to regulate herself. We will revisit the topic soon.)
Upon further discussion about why this was bothering her, Lydia said, “Well, Jesus can come back at any time, and I don’t want to be caught doing something that’s wrong.” This led to a great discussion about God’s grace and mercy, and the difference between the two!
 
Then, that led to questions about friends who swear and do other questionable things but say they go to church. These are not Lydia’s closest friends, though it really bothers her at times when they are disrespectful. “If they really knew God, would they act like that?”
Flowers, Plum Blossom, Spring, Petals, Seasonal, Bloom
We discussed that all of us have sinned and fall short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23). Jesus is the only Way to Heaven (John 14:6), and despite all the good or bad things we do, none of us are deserving. Perhaps Lydia’s friends are unaware of God’s love for them. One way to know God’s people is that they should become more like Him over time.
Then, Lydia said, “When I get to Heaven, I am going to ask God why He didn’t just start over and make everyone love Him?” We discussed how robotic love is not really love at all.
“Ah, well, God can do anything, so He could do that,” she said. I told her there are some things God cannot do such as lie. We have to listen to God’s voice so we are not misled by Satan’s lies and evil schemes. That’s why these conversations with her are so important!
She realized, “Wow, that’s right! I guess there’s no treadmill of love forcing everyone to love God and each other. We have to make a choice.”
We also discussed the ‘common grace’ that God gives to everyone to draw us closer to Him. Some examples include beautiful sunrises and nature, our conscience, laughter with family and friends, safety, etc. God wants each of us to know Him, so we should pray for all our friends and show them God’s love. Yes, it’s the kindness of God that leads us to repentance (Romans 2:4).
We discussed how some people are afraid of God, but they don’t need to be because He is love. Then, Lydia saying, “I bet they haven’t read Revelation!” Which, of course, led to an End Times discussion about the Rapture and the Antichrist! Lydia understands it is important to be prepared, yet she is also concerned for her friends who are unaware.
I am grateful for my wise and thoughtful girl! What an interesting conversation!
This coming weekend marks the ninth anniversary of Dave’s death and entrance into eternity. The conversations above are all the more important to me because (with God’s salvation and grace), it’s on me to make sure Lydia knows the Way to Heaven by pointing her directly to Jesus! In some ways, my goal is to finish what Dave and I started. 
When I think of the last nine years, I see both desperate struggle and overwhelming Victory. Praise God for carrying us this far. He cannot be anything but faithful and good to us, because that’s Who He is!
While I don’t know what’s going on in your life today, I do know God cares all about you and your problems. He is trustworthy and true, so bring Him your fears and concerns.
God can handle all your questions, too. Believe me, I know. Besides, He won’t make you run on an endless treadmill to earn His love!
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God, You are so faithful and good. Thanks for your lovingkindness to us! Help us spread Your love and grace to others. Help us show them Who You are. In Jesus’ Name Amen
Questions: What is your favorite Bible verse? Do you enjoy walking or running on a treadmill? If not, is there a different piece of exercise equipment you enjoy more?!
Tasks: Pray for your friends and family who don’t know Jesus. Set a good, loving example of Who He is… sometimes, we inadvertently turn them “off” because of how we act!
Posted on in Fear/Don't Fake Brave, Miscellaneous, Parenting, Perseverance, Personality, Wisdom, Words

On Encouraging Ourselves

Recently, Lydia and I have been watching a cute show on Netflix called, “Old Enough.” It’s about young Japanese children (ages two to around six or seven) going on “first errands” to help their families in some way.

The kids are not truly alone, as the camera crew is following them from a distance. But in most cases, the crew is not supposed to interact with the children. It is quite impressive to watch these adorable kids, but I cannot imagine us doing that in America!

On the show, we’ve watched a little boy take fish to the fishmonger; kids going to buy a few grocery items; prepare hot tea and a snack for the family; bring lunch to dad at work on the boat; or take flowers to grandma. Some have special handmade flags to help people see them cross the road and others just raise their hands high. Sometimes they walk and sometimes they run the whole way. They usually look both ways several times!

Boy, Picnic, Ruck Sack, Child, Walk, Japanese, Asian

Of course, there are often challenges with making decisions or trying something on their own. While errands and places are familiar, the little kids (toddlers, even!) don’t always know what to do. They aren’t sure which bus to ride (solo!!) or which brand to buy. Some of the kids ask for help reaching items or choosing between options, and some use old-fashioned ingenuity. Only a couple of little ones have wandered home sadly before going out to try again. Impressive!

As you can imagine, the child may not feel up to the task. After a little coaxing or a pep talk, they are on their way determined to make their family proud. Occasionally, the episode has two little friends working together. They keep each other on task and in line. Some are shy and some are extraverted, but they all figure it out in the end. They are heartwarming and adorable to watch!

What stands out to me is that all the kids encourage themselves along the way. On their way, they tell themselves all sorts of things such as, “I can do it. I am confident and determined. I’m brave. Let’s go! I am capable. This is fun. I’m smart! I did it! I’m tired, but I can rest at home. Mom will be happy with me!” One little girl even held her hand up to her ear like a phone and pretended to tell her mom how well she was doing!

If you haven’t already seen the show, “Old Enough,” I recommend it! Lydia has a fascination with Japan anyway, so the culture, religion, housing, and eating habits have been good talking points!

  I love how the kids on the show encourage themselves when they are afraid, lonely, or unsure. That’s because even as adults, we don’t always get it right! When we are hungry, afraid, lonely, tired, unsure, or under pressure, we tend to get off track. Our thoughts and emotions can lead us astray, so we assume the worst about ourselves or our situation!

Thankfully, we have a good example in the Bible because King David took a different approach. When he faced hardship, loss, and near-mutiny, he encouraged himself in the Lord (1 Samuel 30:6). He strengthened himself, not with his own laurels, but with God’s Word and promises to him.

Ultimately, there’s nothing wrong with encouraging and motivating yourself. (We can’t always rely on others to do that for us!) But in the end, we can’t forget to trust God and seek His truth in our circumstances. Let’s encourage ourselves based on who God says we are!

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God, thanks for the people of Japan and the joy of children as they do big things. Bless them and show them who You are. Also, help us to encourage ourselves with Your grace and Truth. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Question: Have you seen any positive, funny, or heartwarming shows lately?

Tasks: Review this throwback blog post and this one, too for some good resources on the same topic!

Posted on in Being Gracious, Gratitude, Kindness, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Personality, Wisdom

Friends Indeed

There’s a well-known adage, which says, “A  friend in need is a friend indeed. This week, I was impressed by some childhood friendships, and I want to recap them here!

First, I was helping with the kids’ chapel service at church on Sunday. In part, I sat with the kids during worship in case someone needed help or redirection.

At one point, a young nonverbal girl in a wheelchair was rolled at the end of my aisle. She was close to Lydia’s age. I got up to greet her and learn a little more about her.

Within seconds, a little boy popped over to introduce himself as her cousin. They were approximately the same age. He said, “I know her the best of anyone here. Can I please sit with her and take care of her?”

I was in awe of his compassion and eagerness to look out for his cousin. For the next several minutes, he whispered loving comments to her. He also told me, “I love her so much” and “I have several cousins and I feel it’s my job to look out for them and protect them.” I gently explained how great of a cousin he is, but also that he doesn’t have to shoulder all responsibility for their well-being.

Later, during the egg hunt, I stood with the little girl while her cousin went to find her some Easter eggs. He wanted to make sure she felt included and didn’t miss out! He was so thoughtful and sweet and soon took her for a ride.

Meeting this young boy was refreshing and unexpected. I hope I can be as quick and responsive to meet the needs of those around me.

Hands, Friendship, Friends, Children, Child, Childhood

Second, on Monday, I offered to pick up a couple of Lydia’s friends for an evening athletic activity. It was fun to hear them talking about all sorts of things, such as water bottles and clothing. They were laughing and joking the whole way, and it was cute to watch.

When I picked them up two hours later, the three of them were discussing how sweaty they were, how hard they worked, and what size t-shirts they had received (based on their mom’s order).

One of the girls exclaimed that her shirt was probably bigger because she is bigger. It made sense to her and she was happy. For the record, as a Registered Dietitian, I have no reason to be worried about her size. She’s normal, and her shirt size ended up being the same as the others.

I loved this girl’s self-confidence and she wasn’t necessarily comparing herself to her friends. But, what impressed me most was the support she received. Lydia and the other girl gently changed the focus and encouraged their friend. They normalized the statement and it soon became a non-issue.

I’m not sure if they quite understood it from my perspective, but I reminded them that there is no perfect size and we all grow differently. I used some examples of my own friendships, and how each person can be a similar size but perhaps a different shape.

I will leave you with this simple quote by writer, Wes Angelozzi, “Go and love someone exactly as they are. And then watch how quickly they transform into the greatest, truest version of themselves. When one feels seen and appreciated in their own essence, one is instantly empowered.” I hope you are as encouraged as I am by these kids!

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God, thanks for the gift of dear friends! Help us be quick to respond with grace and kindness. Help us put Your sacrificial love in action. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Question: Have you learned anything profound from interacting with children lately?

Task: Next time you are around a group of children, watch whether they make fun of each other or whether they encourage and accept one another. Remember, much of this behavior is learned, so be sure to set a good example!

Posted on in Being Gracious, Gratitude, Kindness, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Personality, Wisdom, Worship

Easter Thoughts

Happy Holy Week! As I reflect on Jesus’ sacrifice for me, I am struck by Romans 5:8, which says, “but God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”

It is humbling to think of how much Jesus loves me. Thousands of years before I was born, He saw me and died for me so I could know Him and live for Him. What mercy and grace!

Cross, Christ, Redeemer, Faith, God, Jesus, Clouds

Here are some Easter thoughts that are challenging me lately, in a good way:

You don’t have to like someone in order treat them well.

You don’t have to agree with someone in order to protect them.

You don’t have to understand other people’s choices in order to be kind.

You don’t have to see eye to eye with someone in order to want what’s best for them.

You don’t have to trust someone in order to be friendly (although that certainly helps!).

Jesus, Christ, God, Holy, Spirit, Bible, Gospel, Church

We don’t have to make it complicated; we are simply called to love others and let Jesus take care of the rest. It is tough at times, but it doesn’t need to be. Just remember, you have never looked into the eyes of someone Jesus doesn’t love.

Each person you see is someone Jesus died for. He offers them new life–the same as He offers you and me. Jesus looks upon them with such love and compassion. So must we.

We don’t have to try to figure out all the details or make them think as we do, but we do need to be open-minded. Extending someone grace doesn’t necessarily mean you approve of their choices. It also doesn’t mean they deserve it because grace is unmerited favor. But, you are choosing to see the best in them anyway.

I am so glad Jesus saw us with eyes of compassion and stepped in to save us. He did for us what we could never do on our own. He used His body to bridge the gap between us and God. He died for us well before we even knew His name.

What’s more, Jesus invites us to lay aside all our differences and join Him in a greater plan and story. He offers us gifts, such as peace, joy, and new life! Pursuing Jesus is a much better use of our energy than always keeping tabs on other people!

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Heavenly Father, thanks for the gift of Jesus! How magnanimous! You are so good. May we show others the mercy, grace, and love You have shown us. Give us Your eyes to see them the way You do. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Question: How can you extend Jesus’ mercy, grace, and love to other people?

Tasks: Write out or print the statements in the second section above. Tape them onto your bathroom mirror and memorize them. See how they change your heart toward those who are difficult to love! The change in your attitude may be the very thing God uses to draw them near!

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

If You Could Not Fail

A question popped into my mind this week while I walked down a hill to my car after work: What would you do if you knew you could not fail?

While the weather was good and the street was dry, I was thinking about how that particular path gets icy and I usually walk like a penguin in an attempt not to fall. I’m happy to report I haven’t wiped out yet!

By the time I reached the bottom of the hill, which leads into the parking lot, I had to laugh. If I knew I would not fail, or, fall, maybe I would skateboard or roller skate down the hill. Or, ski or sled depending on the weather and season!

Skater, Graffiti, Lifestyle, Athletic, Man, Skateboard

I tend to be rather cautious by nature, which usually serves me well, but occasionally this causes me to make more safe choices rather than bold ones.

I’m not surprised Lydia is like me in that. I have just learned to take it in stride and deal with fear more effectively. Thank God!

She missed out on another opportunity this week because of fear. It was basically a repeat at the gas station, as before. She wanted a treat, and I agreed if she would go in and get it herself. I gave her a few dollars and a deadline. I was pumping gas, so she had a brief few moments to decide. Well, she didn’t budge…

But, after watching the TrueGirl Miriam Bible study about courage, I gave her another chance. This time, she did it with flying colors… and realized it was way easier than she thought.

Then, we thought of the situation from God’s perspective. I had provided the money and resources for Lydia to get what she wanted. I even positioned her for success and drove her up the door! But, she had to make up her mind and get out of the car.

For me, this all was just a good heart check. God provides for us and positions us for His plan. With His presence and power, we cannot truly fail long-term, though we may fall down occasionally. But, we still have to make up our minds and obey.

Ultimately, we have to step out in faith (or skateboard or ski), making it a regular habit. If we don’t, fear will become the default.

Thankfully, God never gives up on us. He is the God of second chances!

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God, thanks for second chances and for setting us up for success. Thanks that we don’t have to give in to fear. Help us step out by faith, even when we may fail, knowing You will catch us and redirect us. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: What would you do if you knew you could not fail? Are you running on faith or fear?

Task: Stay close to the Lord so you can refill your faith and navigate fearful moments.