Category: Wisdom

Posted on in Fear, Faith, and Moving Forward book, Fear/Don't Fake Brave, Gratitude, Journey of Grace, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Perfectionism, Perseverance, Personality, Pivot, Wisdom

Grace Galore

I hope you are having a wonderful day! Generally, I want my blog to be an encouraging part of your week. Perhaps, it also challenges you, too! I appreciate that it reflects where Lydia and I are in life. It’s been fun to track our successes and work through some of the tough issues we face. 

That’s all good, but as we near the ten-year anniversary of Dave’s death, I have been wondering what all I/we have accomplished in the last decade. It’s a good question to ask sometimes!

Now, before you worry about me, I am okay. I realize a lot is going well for us. I worked very hard to write and publish my book. I have a great job with awesome coworkers, and  Lydia is looking forward to middle school this fall. There’s so much to be thankful for.

It’s just been a stressful few months in many ways, and sometimes I second-guess myself. On those chaotic days, I have wondered how I may have grown or changed when I still see some of the same problems. Have you ever felt that way?

Recently, I had time to talk with some friends and explain how I felt. That helped, especially since they were stressed about the same things! We all have slightly different issues and factors, but stress is stress. 🙂

As a result, I was able to rethink how I perceive some of the stress, and I was able to see God’s grace and provision clearly. He has been so, so good to me.

Free Mountain Path photo and picture

With Easter around the corner, I am again reminded of Jesus’ sacrifice on the Cross. He died so we could live. He rose in Victory; now we also walk in Victory.

Nothing is impossible for God. We bring Him our weaknesses in exchange for His strength. Praise God, we have His Holy Power in us! 

No matter how hectic life gets, I am grateful that Life has so much more to offer. THIS (whatever your THIS is) isn’t ALL there is. The best is yet to come!

Growth isn’t easy; change may require much effort before seeing results. But, we can take steps toward greatness every day. We can choose a good attitude and rely on the Lord. Knowing God’s grace will cover us, we can work hard and do our best.

Perfection is not the goal. We don’t have to get it all right. That’s God’s responsibility. Jesus gives us His righteousness and we can rest in His grace galore!

Of course, the expectation of an “easy” life is unrealistic. Jesus never promised us that. Suffering is not for nothing, however. Challenges will always come, but blessings are built in if we look for them.

Don’t let a bad day, week, or month keep you from living a full life.

Lord, give us Resurrection eyes of faith!

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God, thanks for your grace galore. Thanks that we won’t have to be perfect or have all the answers. Help us walk in the Victory Jesus died to give us. In His Name, Amen

Questions: What is God resurrecting in your life today? How is He making it new, and where can you see His grace at work?

Task: There is stress, and then there is “perceived stress.” Check out this Perceived Stress Scale. To me, it is almost a measure of how much I am worrying (and where I need to trust God or seek help). I hope it is helpful for you – that you can see the silver lining and know where you need to shift your focus.

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

Last-Minute Blessing

Recently, I met with a new widow for coffee at church. She is an older woman, and I just happened to reach out to see how she was coping. As expected, she confirmed the first several weeks are like a train wreck. 

I only met her husband briefly, but they were married for over twenty years. He was a Veteran and will be buried with full honors at the Fargo National Cemetary. I hope to attend with Lydia if we are available that day.

We talked for about two hours as Lydia sat nearby and read a book. I asked questions and answered them. I looked up a phone number for her and really just listened. I hope she was as encouraged as I was!

I brought my friend a little artificial orchid, knowing it would be a blessing – and perhaps a bright spot when she is feeling down. I didn’t want her to have to remember to water it – like I did with my tomato plant all those years ago!

She mentioned two things that impacted me. She said God spoke to her heart at church that day in a powerful way; she said if I hadn’t invited her, she would still be at home. Whoa. I am so glad I listened!

Indeed, it was good to see my friend’s face light up with joy at the cute plant. I noticed her touching it from time to time during our conversation. She thanked me and said she knew the perfect spot for it at home!

I’m not sharing this to show you how amazing I am. Honestly, I almost left the orchid at home and brought a different plant. That’s because I wanted to keep the orchid for myself! 

It’s a little humbling to admit my selfishness, but I needed the reminder to be generous. I am so glad I listened to the Holy Spirit’s prompting. On my way out the door, I ran back inside to grab the orchid and put it in my purse. I decided I didn’t want to look at the orchid with regret, wishing I had given it away. It was a last-minute blessing, and I didn’t want to miss the opportunity!

In some ways, I wanted to be an example for Lydia to do the right thing. On our drive to church, we discussed how a fake little plant almost prevented me from showing Jesus’ love to someone who really needed it. Yes, I could probably find it again and buy it online, but it was a good lesson for us both!

We talked about how we are God’s ambassadors and represent Him. His love for others flows through us as we serve and give. God can take my little sacrifice and do something big with it. So, we shouldn’t hold back a blessing meant for someone else.

Sometimes, people ask God, “Why aren’t you using me?” But, I wonder how often we limit His work in our lives simply because we ignore His still, small voice. How can we expect Him to do something big or exciting if we aren’t obedient in the little things?

We don’t need to wrestle with being kind. We don’t need to question if God wants us to give. It is not a question of IF, but how or how much. We can certainly pray for wisdom but don’t doubt or procrastinate. We can afford to be generous and give what we have.

Indeed, God never gives us His second best or second rate. Jesus was the only option, and He was all in. Jesus gave His life for us, so we could live for Him.

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God, thanks for being so generous! Thanks for the opportunity to join You at work. Please help me be kind, generous, and gracious toward others. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Question: Do you trust that God can take your offering and multiply it?

Task: Don’t allow yourself to settle for second best. Always give your best to God!

Posted on in Gratitude, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Parenting, Wisdom

Building Boundaries

This past Sunday, Lydia got a big surprise when I bought her first cell phone! We have been discussing it for a while, and I was content to wait a little longer. Nonetheless, we decided to go to Verizon and scout out some options. I felt peace when we were there, and it seemed right!

Of course, Lydia is very excited, but she will need to learn some new boundaries. I set some parental restrictions and won’t let her sign up for social media accounts. She has time limits set up, as well, and I can review her activity. It will be a learning curve for both of us, but I am glad we are doing this a few months before she starts middle school.

Naturally, the last few nights at bedtime, we have been reviewing the importance of setting healthy boundaries. It doesn’t happen without diligence!

Lydia was having trouble understanding my point, so I showed her using an old wooden tray for one of her toys. It probably held some magnets or blocks, but the toys are long gone by now. (pic below)

I grabbed the tray, which to me looked like a corral. First, I turned it over to the flat side. I explained that we don’t know where our limits are when we don’t have boundaries. We may get really close to the “edge” and risk getting hurt.

Then, I flipped it back over and showed Lydia how the outer part looked like a fence. If a person – or horse?!- were in there, they would have a lot of freedom to roam. There is comfort and safety in strong boundaries.

Boundaries also protect us from outside influences. Some people prefer to live on the edge; they like taking risks and pushing limits! Sometimes, that’s okay, but we need to make sure we are in step with Jesus and honoring Him.

Lydia and I brainstormed several examples of boundaries. Saying yes and no are a start. Marriages and friendships are two examples, a regular bedtime is another. Yards have fences or sometimes hedgerows as property lines. A budget is yet one more example of a boundary!

Boundaries are not just guidelines; they help us measure where we are and how far we’ve come! I’m sure Lydia and I will continue to develop more boundaries as she grows. For now, she is learning boundaries come with responsibility!

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God, thanks for the loving boundaries You place in our lives. Help us to honor You as we stay within Your limits. May we be wise. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: What are some other examples of good boundaries? Do you naturally like boundaries, or are you a little rebellious? 😉

Tasks: Take a moment to assess your boundaries, personally and/or professionally. Reel yourself in before you fall off the edge and get hurt! 🙂 Check out this book!

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

In Search of Good News

It may be March 1st, but we have another snowstorm in Fargo! It’s not the end of the world, and I know Spring is right around the corner. At least on the calendar – practically speaking, it’s still a couple of months away at this latitude. It takes a while to warm up and for all the snow to melt!

I was thinking about what to write for today’s blog post and was stuck between two half-processed ideas. I just wasn’t feeling them. They still need time to marinate, I guess!

So, I went online to catch up with some articles. I usually have a lot of tabs open but never seem to find time to finish reading! In the process, I clicked open my browser, which shows the latest news. So, I had to check that out first!

Honestly, most of the ‘news’ these days isn’t all that enticing. Some of it is just click-bait, gimmicky stuff. Soooo much unnecessary drama… I also didn’t feel like reading something heavy, such as war or politics (although they are important). And, I wasn’t really interested in shopping for deals. Been there, done that.

No, I was in search of flat-out good news. Life is pretty busy right now, and March usually picks up even more. So, my mind is on overload. I needed something lighthearted to make me smile. Not necessarily an escape, just motivation to keep moving forward.

Free Coffee Magazine photo and picture

Success! I found a video of the Princess of Wales accepting some flowers from a toddler. Her genuine response and accent brightened my mood. I also read about a family welcoming home a soldier. I read through some healthy plant-based recipes (which helped me feel creative!). And, then I took a cue from Lydia and watched… cute puppy videos. 🙂

During the short time I spent writing this, I remembered a friend’s mom needed prayer. And, I reached out to some loved ones who live near an accident to make sure they are okay (sad news I read online). My heart was filled with concern.

Then, I thought about Jesus and the Good News He brings. Indeed, God is the Source of all good things, and He is the very definition of Good. Our perspective changes when we focus on Jesus!

God covers us with His grace even when we are completely unaware. Like, we literally cannot fathom all the good things He does for us and the crazy things He shields us from.

Grace upon grace. Mercy and forgiveness. Good news upon good news. His free gift.

If you could use a little encouragement in your life today, here is the best news possible: God loves you and is with you right now. He has a special plan for your life. You matter. God has not forgotten about you. He is for you and has good things in store for You. You can trust Him completely. He’s got you covered!

There are no gimmicks with God. Life is good because God is good. There will be some challenging days, sure, but we can get through them with His help!

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God, thanks for showing us Your perfect Grace and Truth. Thanks for being the standard we live by, not the world’s drama or our emotions. Help us share Your light with those around us. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Questions: What are your favorite topics to read about or watch? What brings you joy online? Does it uplift you and turn your heart toward Jesus?

Tasks: Check out this website, full of good news! Thank God for all the ways He loves you!

Posted on in Being Gracious, Kindness, Miscellaneous, Parenting, Wisdom, Words

Wise As Serpents, Harmless As Doves

Lydia and I had yet another timely conversation last night. She was talking to two friends online who have not been getting along. It sounds like one friend was ready to extend an olive branch. Yet, Lydia unknowingly was trying to play interference. 

I overheard her talking to the other friend and asked her, “What are you talking about? Don’t get in the middle of their issues, and don’t write anything you will regret.”

Did she listen?

Not quite…

While Lydia didn’t write anything mean or spiteful, the tone of her words didn’t sound quite right and could have been misinterpreted since we can’t always deduce tone of voice online. Not thinking it through, she just wrote what came to her mind. The other friend grew suspicious that Lydia was playing both sides, though she was trying to help.

Lydia’s little folly lost her tech privileges the rest of the night. Mostly, I needed her to take a pause. Thankfully, both friends easily let it go, but it could have blown up quickly.

Really, I don’t think Lydia understood what I meant, so I used her confusion as a teaching moment. I searched for the verse below and then found this video. We watched it together and discussed it.

I explained that we are to be wise yet peaceable with people. We are to influence the world but not get caught up in the drama. We can help people, but we have to let them learn and navigate their own path sometimes. 

We are called to love, but that doesn’t mean we are to be pushovers. We are called to stand up for others, but not pull them out of every pickle.

I gave Lydia a few personal examples of two sides telling me ‘all their problems.’ I never share personal details or provide a ‘he said, she said’ to the other party. Instead, I encourage them to talk it out. I pay attention to subtleties and nuances of body language. I read between the lines, so to speak! 

I can provide a look into the other person’s perspective, but filter it through a lens of grace. I coach them to offer the benefit of the doubt and help them understand the other side. But, it is always up to them whether they work it out or not.

As such, people recognize that I am a good listener, observant and trustworthy. I try not to be judgemental but provide a rounded view of both sides.

In the verse above, Jesus used a simile. He didn’t mean we should be dishonest or try to deceive people. He meant we should be aware and be prepared… lead with love, but don’t be stupid or naive. 

Ultimately, we need to understand the impact of our actions, and how they can pull people closer to Jesus or repel them. In some ways, it’s a matter of great responsibility!

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God, thanks for the lessons You teach us! Help us walk wisely and peacefully as we share Your love and grace with others. Help us do what is right. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Do you listen with wise and peaceable intent, or do you try to stir the pot?

Task: Pray about this topic and THINK: Is it True? Is it Helpful? Is it Inspiring? Is it Necessary? Is it Kind? If not, keep it to yourself!

Posted on in Gratitude, Journey of Grace, Miscellaneous, Parenting, Prayer, Wisdom

V is for Viola

After a couple of rough weeks (on and off), this week held a few grace-filled surprises! Last week, I was overwhelmed with decisions, partially because I had very little information. This week, I got a few more details.

Soon, I will have to make decisions for and with Lydia, who will attend middle school in August. There will be general registration, course schedules, and filtering through electives.

This week, we learned more about the music option. Previously, they have offered choir, band, orchestra, and general music, but I had heard they discontinued general music for the next school year.

I was hoping for an easy out (such as general music) because I don’t know how it all works. I was never in band or orchestra for a few reasons, including that I generally have no rhythm! So, on top of everything else, it wasn’t a decision I wanted to make.

Free Violin Viola photo and picture

Well, Monday was the day to try some instruments after school. On my way to pick up Lydia, I said a simple prayer. I asked God to direct our path and make our way clear. I decided to have an open mind, ask good questions, and support Lydia. I went in faith and with expectation!

When we walked into the middle school, we were surprised by how big it was! Lydia was both a little excited and nervous. Thankfully, we ran into a friend, and she pointed us in the right direction. First hurdle down!

Next, we navigated down a long hallway. The first sign we saw was for general music, followed by orchestra, and further down the hall, band. We walked into the first open door: Orchestra. Many people were sampling instruments, and at first, we didn’t know where to go. Then, an eighth grader ran over, introduced herself, and invited us to try her violin. She did a great job explaining all the nuances of her instrument.

Then, a little joking occurred between her and some friends. The friends said Lydia “had” to try the viola because it’s “better” than the violin. “The violin is popular and likes all the attention, but the viola is a team player. It works well with all the instruments!” These girls were very attentive, and one talked for about twenty minutes nonstop, answering all my questions. It was so helpful, and her passion was notable! I was blown away!

I had Lydia try the cello, but she wasn’t that interested in the bass. When I asked her what her favorite was, she said she liked the viola! We went to the band room, and immediately, Lydia said it was too loud for her. I made her walk around and check out the instruments anyway. At my prodding, she tried blowing into the mouthpiece of a flute. But, eventually, we went back to trial the violin and viola again. I wanted her to be sure.

Free String Family Violin photo and picture

We had the violinist play a short song, and I remembered how the beautiful soprano instrument can evoke both happiness and sadness for me. I felt a lump form in my throat and told myself not to cry. 🙂 Then, the three violists offered to play together. Their alto sound was surprisingly rich and soothing! It was a noticeable difference in my emotions, and Lydia said it was better for her tinnitus. Wow.

We thanked everyone and met the music teacher. She confirmed there is no general music option next year; thus Lydia has to choose an instrument or be in the choir. She also explained the basic rental process and gave me a heads-up about a few upcoming dates, so I know what to expect. She said they don’t grade based on how well a child plays, but rather on other in-class assignments. I was very pleased with the whole experience, which gave me peace of mind. Thank you, Lord!

At home, we found a video further explaining the differences between the violin and the viola. The more we learned, the more we thought the viola sounded like a good fit for Lydia. She doesn’t like the spotlight but is warm and supportive. She works well with others and is happy in the background, though she can lead as needed. The next day, I saw her watching more videos about the instrument!

Regardless of the instrument she chooses, Lydia must commit to practicing regularly, at least for sixth grade. Although we still have a little more time before deciding, I am glad God answered my prayers and gave me peace. I love seeing Lydia’s excitement for the next big step, and I know she will rise to the occasion. 

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God, thanks for helping us this week. You are so gracious and kind. May our decisions bring you glory as we move forward with grace and joy! In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Did you play an instrument in school? Did you keep playing it over the years, or do you wish you did?

Task: If you have any good advice when choosing an instrument, please let me know!

Posted on in Journey of Grace, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Parenting, Perfectionism, Perseverance, Pivot, Wisdom, Words

Easing Into the New Year

Ahh! Don’t you love the beginning of a new year?! 

We often see the ‘new year, new you’ types of posts, but this year, I have been pleasantly surprised to read more posts about starting small and just showing up. Small changes add up over time! It’s refreshing in a way because most New Year’s resolutions don’t stick.

Perhaps our goals aren’t well thought out, or we try to change too much. Setting small goals and re-evaluating them each week can be helpful to make sure you stay on track. You may have heard of ‘SMART goals’ which are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, and Timely.

SMART goals are a practical way to keep moving forward. Here’s an example: At least four days this week, I will add 1 cup of vegetables to my lunch. Then, you can look back and know for sure if you have been successful. It’s low pressure, but you can adjust the goals as needed and have built-in accountability.

An excellent way to ease into the new year! Who knows… maybe you will be surprised!

Free photos of Winter

It’s only a few days into January, and Lydia and I have already had several weighty conversations! It’s normal to become more self-conscious in the pre-teen years, and Lydia has been asking great questions. It’s not easy, and I appreciate your prayers!

This week, we discussed the difference between being passive and proactive in what we watch, say, think, do, and feel. Being passive means we just let things happen, and being proactive means we look ahead and plan when possible; we direct our responses and position ourselves for success.

For example, it’s not our fault if someone swears in a movie we are watching, but we are responsible for whether or not we keep watching. And, we are accountable if we choose to use the bad language. 😉

Also, feeling upset sometimes is normal, but choosing to stay upset is our choice. If we react in anger or spread gossip, then we have to face the consequences of our actions.

Negative thoughts come and go, just like positive ones. We should acknowledge our emotions, but they don’t run the show! And if we don’t get ahold of them, they can become a stronghold. We need to uproot lies, fear, anger, and resentment!

Lydia and I have discussed how we can reject unhelpful thoughts or emotions by applying God’s Word and Truth. Lydia has been looking up Bible verses in context and summarizing them. Then, we discuss them and think of ways to apply them to her life and mine! Slowly, I see her becoming more confident and comfortable with her identity in Christ!

Free photos of Mountains

Like Lydia, it’s good to keep learning new things and changing. That’s called growth! 

Although, I’m grateful God doesn’t usually ask us to change everything all at once. The Holy Spirit does prompt us to change so we can be more like Jesus, but He is a gentleman. In my experience, however, He is persistent!

God might keep bringing up a topic on the radio, online, or in conversations with others. Or, He might prick your heart at inconvenient or uncomfortable times. It’s good to check in with Him daily and make sure we are listening.

This year, I don’t have any big goals or resolutions. I just want to be godly! I am making it a priority to tune my ears to the Holy Spirit. I want to make sure I am staying close to the Lord, as He helps me lead and guide Lydia through these next stages. There is a lot at stake, and we are relying on Him!

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God, thanks that we don’t have to prove ourselves or earn Your love. You accept us just as we are, yet love us to much to let us stay that way. Change us little by little, and help us stay close to You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Do you have any goals to start off this new year? How can you stay close to Jesus this week… and year?

Tasks: Remember to keep close to God, so He can direct your path! Write down one SMART goal for the week. Be ready to pivot, as needed. Don’t overthink it, and feel free to change it next week! 🙂

Posted on in Gratitude, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Wisdom, Worship

Always

On this last Wednesday of 2022, I am reflecting on all that has happened over the previous year. This was a reasonably calm year regarding emotions and drama (grief is always behind the scenes, but not as big day-to-day). We traveled to see family and friends in Arizona, Michigan, and Montana. We also had a few visitors, which is always fun!

Otherwise, we had more of our usual… work, school, serving, and hanging out! Sometimes keeping the status quo is a good thing! Flash forward to the holidays, which are good but sometimes challenging.

I worked on Christmas Morning – it was my turn, after all – but I was thinking of what to do about it all year! I didn’t want to leave Lydia alone, especially since I wasn’t sure how long I would be gone. Any other day would have been fine, but Christmas packs a more powerful punch.

It was a conundrum for me as a single parent. I didn’t want to invite Lydia to someone’s house on Christmas. And if the weather was bad, or if she was sick… well, there were many factors to consider! I prayed a lot over the last year!

Free photos of Snowman

A few local people offered solutions, but none were quite right. Then, a few months ago, my sister and brother-in-law decided they could come for Christmas. Earlier this month, one of our friends invited Lydia as a backup, which was appreciated.

As it got closer, my sister and I discussed all the fun activities we wanted to do. But, I still wasn’t sure they would make it because the weather tends to be a wild card! Ironically, despite all my planning for work, it still came down to a last-minute decision to come a day early. My family rolled in at 2:30 a.m. on Thursday and just beat the bad weather!

We made some great memories and celebrated some old ones. It was so fun to have them here for Christmas! We enjoyed shopping, baking, toddler-chasing, playing in the snow, Christmas movie-watching, and much more!

Well, working on Christmas went better than I imagined. I prayed for God’s grace and mercy, and He gave me an ‘easy’ day. Lydia was sick, and it did snow a bit. But, God took care of the biggest hurdles, and Aunt Livi and Uncle Paul were here to stay with Lydia. So, she didn’t have to be alone.

Recently, I heard the song “Always” by Chris Tomlin. It has been running through my mind ever since! I’m grateful God comes through for us… always and in all ways.

I like the chorus below:

“Your mercy is mighty age after age, and all generations will bow down and praise
The Lord is faithful, yesterday, now and always”

What a timely reminder that we can plan, but God directs our steps (Proverbs 16:9). I had been worried about all the what-ifs, but even so, God was with us. He smoothed out the issues and covered them with His grace and provision.

I know God will continue to carry us in the coming year. I see a few hurdles ahead, but know He has a good plan. God has never let me down – He is always faithful, and I put my trust in Him.

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Thanks, Lord, for always guiding my path and walking with me! Thanks for providing help and fun during this holiday season. May we continue to trust You in the new year ahead. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: What was your most significant highlight of the year? What was something difficult you faced? How did God come through for you?

Tasks: Listen to the song, “Always,” by Chris Tomlin. Write down how God has been faithful to you this year.

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

Light of the World

Today is the winter solstice, or the shortest, darkest day of the year (so to speak). I don’t see a lot of daylight at work, but I like to take short walks to the nearest windows when I can!

We are getting more snow today, but this week has otherwise been below zero, beautiful and sunny! I love watching the snow fall, but I always pray before driving!

With all the snow and darkness lately, it’s easy to come home and stay cozy, not to go out and do anything or see anyone! (Or, maybe that’s just me as an introvert!)

Lydia and I have had several deep and heavy conversations in the last month or so. Perhaps that’s because of all the memories we celebrate in this season. From her birthday in November to my wedding anniversary in early January, we have a lot on our hearts and minds.

Free photos of Candle

One thing I love is our ongoing discussion about being empty or full. It has given Lydia words to describe her feelings, and then we have been applying God’s word to her situation. This book is a helpful tool to get to the heart of the matter.

Well, I hope you are eager with anticipation for Christmas! We have hope in Jesus, and He is truly the best gift. However, if you are feeling a little sad with grief, or a bit nervous about Christmas celebrations (for any number of reasons!), or… If you aren’t sure how you are feeling, that’s okay!

This week, it has taken me longer to get home after work. Monday night, I was on the road for an hour, at least 15 minutes at one stop light! There was a minor accident and snowy weather. The streetlights were helpful, but so was the Christmas music! I made the best of it, knowing the Lord was keeping me safe. It seemed like a God-given opportunity to stage a worship session in my car! God was glorified in my wait.

Sometimes, the dark nights seem to last forever. But you know what?! Sorrow may last for the night, but joy comes in the morning (Psalm 30:5)!

When we face darkness (real or metaphorical), we can always call out to Jesus, the Light of the World. He steps down in our darkness and brightens up our world. He shows us the path to take and also walks with us on it. He is my go-to when making decisions!

Sometimes, Jesus sits with us until things feel better. Sometimes, He shares the Truth with us or shows us an area where we need to grow. Both are illuminated with His love and grace. I’m grateful He understands.

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Lord Jesus, we praise You for being the Light of the World! Thanks for clarifying what is on our hearts and minds, bringing peace. Thanks for brightening our world and walking with us every day. Help us spread Your light and love to others. In Your name, Amen

Questions: Are you ready for Christmas? What are you looking forward to? What are you a little nervous about?

Tasks: Turn your car into a worship booth! Crank up the Christmas music… you can start with this song by Lauren Daigle!

 

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

Empty and Filled

This life is full of contradictions and competing scenarios. We don’t think about them all too often, but lately, I have noticed more of them.

Here are a few to get us started: You can be invited somewhere yet feel both excited and nervous to go. It’s okay if you want to attend and stay home simultaneously. You can have low energy and feel wiped out due to a big event, yet feel fulfilled. We may feel one way when we are rested and another when we need to rest!

In the Bible, the Beatitudes also show some contradictions. Jesus turned things upside down! And, as Paul wrote in Philippians 1:21, “To live is Christ, to die is gain.” A win-win!

Sometimes, contradictions are a matter of perspective. What causes one person to feel “empty” may cause another to feel “full” and vice versa. We can be empty or full or anywhere in between.

Free photos of Cup

On Sunday night, Lydia told me she was “dreading” going to school. That was a strong statement, so I asked why and she said, “Because tomorrow is Monday.” After a little more digging, she was actually looking forward to seeing her friends. Whew!

A lot of it was just Lydia’s attitude, and she was sleepy… which tends to morph into other emotions. Before it went too far, I used it as a learning opportunity! I reminded her that there are about fifty-two Mondays in a year, so if she doesn’t get ahold of herself, she could face the same dilemma every week. And weeks become months, which become years.

I shared with her some ‘opposites’ I have been pondering lately about feeling empty or full. Some examples could include feeling hungry or satisfied; yearning for something or finally getting it; feeling tired or well-rested; disliking the weather, or being content with it. In each case, the point is that we can be grateful and invite Jesus to fill us and sustain us!

Lydia quickly understood what I meant and started to apply it. Her attitude improved almost immediately, and she soon drifted off to sleep. The next morning, she came into the bathroom to brush her teeth. “Mom, I woke up feeling a little empty, you know?”

I nodded and asked if Lydia was feeling better after eating breakfast. She agreed and said she had asked God to help her. I was so proud of her! She ended up having a good Monday after all, though I am sure we will continue to refine this point!

In this Advent season, I, too, have been feeling a little empty at times. I may be a little sad and missing Dave, but I am also thinking of friends who are suffering or missing loved ones. I am so grateful for the full hope we have in Jesus!

We need to be careful not to fill the void with anything else but Jesus. Though it is quite easy to… eat, watch a show, play on your phone, call a friend, etc. Only Jesus will do.

When I feel empty, I can ask Jesus to fill me. When I am full, I can praise God for His blessing. When I want or need something, I can ask the Lord to help; when I have no lack, I can praise Him for his provision.

When I am sick or in pain, He is my healer. When I am well, I can praise Him for making me whole. When I am weak, then I am strong. Jesus is my all in all.

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God, thanks for Your love, grace, and provision! Thanks for filling me when I am empty and letting me perceive Your grace when I am full. Keep reminding me You are near. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Have you ever noticed feeling empty or full? In those cases, what is your go-to response? Do you try to fill the space yourself, or do you turn to Jesus?

Tasks: Regardless of your circumstances or feelings, invite Jesus in. He is our hope and healer, so watch Him move on your behalf. Also, read Ephesians 1, and notice the very last line!