Category: Worship

Posted on in Gratitude, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Personality, Prayer, Wisdom, Worship

Chasing After the Wind

For the past month or so, I have been diligent in taking a walk during my lunch at work. In fact, I have been walking most of the time and eating at my desk later.

It has taken me months to follow through on my original intention, but I am proud of myself! I finally decided that being active with a thirty-minute walk was a better mental break. Stepping away from my desk helps me reset and feel prepared for the rest of the day. I will eat something either way, but the walk has been easier to let slide. But, if I prioritize the walk, the rest will fall into place.

Currently, I am able to go outside most days and take various paths around the local neighborhoods. I take my phone, don’t stray too far, and make sure there are others around for safety. Sometimes, I go with a coworker. On rainy days or in winter, I can head downstairs to the little gym at work.

Historically, I have tried to exercise at home in the evening, but if something pops up unexpectedly, I may not get around to it. So, at least now I can feel good that I have already taken a walk. I don’t worry about it too much either way.

Free Lake Windy photo and picture

On Monday, I was taking my walk, and it was extremely windy and loud. I texted Lydia to check in instead of calling her because I didn’t think she’d be able to hear me clearly. Thankfully, she was able to grab our garbage can before it blew away like our neighbors’ did!

After that, I thought about the prophet Elijah in 1 Kings 19; the wind he faced must’ve been fierce! Then, there was an earthquake and, later, a fire. But the Lord was not found in those powerful forces. Eventually, He came in a whisper or a still, small voice.

Anyway, I decided to just focus on what God might be saying. I didn’t sense anything specific, but it was a fun experience filled with expectation in His presence. Because I was not too distracted, I noticed the trees blowing, a peaceful park, and some little kids who waved hello.

By Monday night, the thunderstorm had arrived. It rained for quite a while, and the next day, I noticed several sticks and larger branches lying around. On Tuesday, I really had to pay attention to avoid the branches, mud, puddles, and uneven pavement!

While I walked, another famous passage came to my mind from Ecclesiastes 1:14. This is when King Solomon perceived the futility of life without God is like chasing after the wind. Yes, so many people try to figure out life on their own. We are bombarded by “bright and shiny” things all the time, but really, there is nothing new under the sun.

I wonder how many times we are looking for the next exciting thing but overlook what God is doing right around us. Are we looking for what we think is best, or are we pursuing God’s best in Jesus? Are we chasing the fleeting wind or chasing Almighty God? Afterall, he is Master over the wind.

Let’s slow down and pay attention as we walk with God. Then, we will be able to understand His plan for us, know we are on the right track, and change course quickly, if needed. He can “blow” us where we need to go or protect us along the way!

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Heavenly Father, thanks for pursuing us with all Your love, mercy, and grace! You alone are worthy – may we chase after You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Questions: How have you connected with God this week? Do you have any nice walking paths where you live?

Tasks: If you find yourself chasing your tail or chasing after the wind, take a little walk or sit and listen for the Lord. He can be found amid noise and chaos, but chances are He will be waiting in the silence for you. Write down what you perceive He is telling you and verify it in Scripture.

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

Summer Simplicity

We are heading toward the end of June, and it feels like Summer is going quickly!

Lydia and I are having fun hanging out. We have tried a few new restaurants and taken several walks. We’ve checked out books at the library and watched a few movies. We’ve cooked together and enjoyed each other’s company. She’s going to camp in a few weeks, and we have one or two weekend getaways planned later.

Life seems so much simpler in Summer. You can go out without remembering heavy layers of winter gear. You can drive without too many delays (other than road construction!). Sometimes, the days are long, but that is a blessing overall!

When things are going well, sometimes we forget about God. If we are smooth sailing, we feel that we don’t need Him as much. Why does it take a crisis to make us draw close to Him?

Free Raspberries Blueberry photo and picture

It’s great to take advantage of the benefits Summer brings, but if we’re not careful, we can be just as “crazy busy” as we are the rest of the year! I, for one, am intent on enjoying my morning coffee outside and taking some long nature walks. I am eating lots of watermelon and berries, too!

Yes, it’s wonderful to be able to take it slow in Summer. But let’s also use it to regroup and reconnect with God. Summer means growth, so let’s grow in faith as we hone our spiritual practices. These include rest, prayer, worship, and Bible study (to name a few).

I don’t know what you have planned in the next two months, but if you need a sign to get a little R&R, this is it. 😉 Take time to sit with Jesus. Draw close to Him and celebrate what He is doing.

Find joy in the simple things. Go to the pool (or beach!) and swim in God’s grace. Put in the effort and see what He does next!

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Father, thanks for the gift of Summer! Help us take it in at Your pace so we don’t miss a thing. Restore us and rejuvenate us, Lord. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: What’s been the best part of your Summer so far? Do you have any exciting plans?

Tasks: Set your intention for the remainder of Summer. Build in some time to rest and grow with Jesus.

Posted on in Being Gracious, Gratitude, Journey of Grace, Kindness, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Pivot, Wisdom, Worship

Godly Interruptions

So much of our time is spent going from one thing to the next. We may have a little margin, but often, we don’t. If we’re not careful, we can lose our sense of direction and purpose.

If we are so busy all the time, it may be difficult to hear God, too. That’s why I am am trying to slow down and be glad when He interrupts my day. Even so, I don’t always recognize or appreciate those moments, but I am working on it.

On Sunday, Lydia and I had one such godly interruption as we were on our way to church. My friend is a mom of three kids under three, and she was very sick. Her husband had to work for a few hours, and my friend’s extended family was all out of town. She asked us to come help, and I immediately knew God was at work.

It was Father’s Day, but I told Lydia, “Sometimes we go to church, and sometimes we need to be the church.” We turned around and were on our way.

Free Bowl Broth photo and picture

I am so glad my friend asked for support and that we were available to help. She was so depleted she could barely move, so much so that the next day, she went in for IV fluids. On Sunday, I made her a little chicken broth and fed and changed the kids. Lydia was a big help in entertaining the toddler, and it was a good lesson in serving others.

We tend to ask God to do “BIG” things in our lives, but are we willing to do the little things He puts in front of us? If we are faithful in small matters, He can trust us when the stakes increase.

Are we available and flexible to move with God? If we hold tightly to our plans, we can have trouble changing them in a pinch. This may include giving a ride to someone in need; or meeting a friend to pray about a big decision; rescuing an endangered animal; or answering a last-minute call to volunteer.

Godly interruptions are like signposts that help us know we are on track. As long as we are willing to listen and be redirected, we can’t help but stay in step with Jesus.

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God, thanks for all the ways You lead me. May I embrace Your interruptions with grace. Help me spread Your love and kindness everywhere I go. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: How has God interrupted you lately? Were you able to roll with it, or did you drag your feet?

Tasks: Build a little margin and flexibility into your schedule so you are available to be used by the Lord. Have grace when He interrupts your day!

Posted on in Gratitude, Journey of Grace, Kindness, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Prayer, Wisdom, Worship

Praise The Lord!

Well, we made it past May 15th, and now I feel lighthearted again! Whew! Thanks, Lord! Suddenly, it feels like all is well. I can smile and sing a little more freely, and I can focus on other things again. 🙂

In other news, Lydia and I are making good progress reading the Bible chronologically in a year. We came across some of David’s last words in 2 Samuel 22, though they are also represented in the Psalms. It reminded me of a fun song I learned at a Christian summer camp as a kid.

I started singing the song, and had to share it with Lydia. Of course, I had to do the motions too, which happened to make us look like ninjas. It made her laugh so much, which I love. Maybe she will share it with her friends at camp this summer!

It’s funny how God’s Word and music can change our emotions and help us work through tough moments (or months, in my case!). Our emotions are indicators (signs) not dicators (telling us how to feel or think). God’s Word is Truth, and it has the power to change our lives.

We don’t have to live by our emotions! We don’t have to live in fear, stay sad, or harbor anger. We should allow them space so we learn from them, but then we can keep moving forward and let them point us back to Jesus.

Our emotions come from Him, and we can express them in various ways. All of them are valid, but they are only helpful to a point. If we offer them a place to stay, then they may take over. Instead, let’s see them as dear guests, just regularly passing through. Then, they can come and go freely.

Jesus, on the other hand, well, we can build our lives on Him! Our songs of praise and acts of kindness toward others can illuminate His goodness, grace, mercy, justice, peace, joy, etc. He is so good and worthy of praise!

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God, You are so worthy of all our praise! Thanks for all the ways You bless us. May we turn all our emotions over to You, and help us live for You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: What are your favorite songs that put you in a good mood? Do you tend to hold onto your emotions or do you release them?

Tasks: Sing, dance, laugh, talk, cry… it all counts. Praise the Lord!

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

Ducks In A Row

Spring means a lot of birds are arriving daily! I have noticed songbirds, geese, and ducks lately. Did you know there are over fifty types of ducks worldwide, including geese and swans? (This site reports 165, to be exact.)

Apparently, there are thirty-three different duck species in the United States. Some are friendly and some are territorial. As a side note, loons are not ducks. Now you know!

Not too long ago, I saw a picture of a duck with seventy-six ducklings following her! This article describes it as a ducky daycare of sorts. That makes me smile just thinking about it!

Just like God cares for the sparrows, he absolutely cares for the ducks, too!

Free Ducks Ducklings photo and picture

When life gets busy, we may say, “I need to get my ducks in row.” This expression suggests that we need to get organized or ensure all the details line up just so. It can be difficult because no one can keep all their ducks in a row for long! The ducks (or tasks) are constantly changing, even if they all cooperate and things go smoothly.

I definitely feel that way sometimes, and I am sure you do, too. I try to bend several ways to accomplish much more than I probably should. Lord help me!

I am listening to John Mark Comer’s book The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry. He writes how hurry and busyness lead to distraction and burnout. We tend to run, run, run, and leave little room for margin.

As Christians, this puts us in a dangerous position because if we are so busy all the time, we don’t take time to check in with God. Doing something FOR God is different than doing it WITH God.

King Saul learned that the difficult way in 1 Samuel 13. His soldiers were afraid and leaving the battle, and Saul got tired of waiting for God’s prophet to come. He took matters into his own hands, and because of his impatience and disobedience, Saul eventually lost everything.

Free Duck Ornithology photo and picture

God’s pace is SLOW compared to the world’s pace. We can only survive spiritually if we roll back the busyness and walk with God at the pace He sets. Not several steps ahead without checking in to see if we are actually supposed to go in that direction.

The author mentioned that God is love, and perfect love takes time. So do joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, gentleness, faithfulness, and self-control. For example, we need to slow down to love people well, enjoy the present moment, and have peace of mind. Helping people or listening to them takes intention. When we are faced with temptation, we are at risk if we jump right in before weighing options.

Slowing down likely means having fewer ducks overall (tasks on my to-do list). I won’t shirk my responsibilities or give away my little duckies, but when it’s time for them to fledge (our time together is complete), I don’t have to get more ducks ‘just because.’ I trust God to help me know what I can handle and what that looks like.

After all, God cares for the ducks, and He cares for me, too. All the world’s ducks are His. And all circumstances and the tasks in my little world are under His guidance, too. Or, at least, they are if I ask for His help and go at His pace!

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God, thanks for the gift of ducks! Thanks for the new life they represent and the joy they bring. Help me submit my daily schedule to you. Give me just the right amount of tasks and help me stay focused on You. I want to walk with You, In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: How many “ducks” are you in charge of right now? Is it too much or just enough? Are you trusting God?

Tasks: Let’s honor God by checking in with Him regarding our schedule. We can trust Him to give us just the right amount of ducks. Keep in mind chaos and overwhelm are NOT from Him… don’t beat yourself up if your ducks are running wild. Just bring them to Jesus and let Him help you!

Posted on in Fear/Don't Fake Brave, Gratitude, Journey of Grace, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Perfectionism, Perseverance, Personality, Pivot, Prayer, Procrastination, Wisdom, Worship

Living Redeemed

Spring is in the air, and I sense God doing something new! In some ways, I feel like this season has already been drawn out since we had hardly any winter snow. But, I also feel a little behind the game because it is easy to coast along when I am busy with other things. Sometimes, it is nice to have some urgency, and at different times, it is good just to relax. Either way, I am excited to see what God is doing.

On Easter Sunday, Psalm 103:1-5 was shared, and the sermon was about what it means to be redeemed. Essentially, redemption means that a ransom was paid (Jesus’ blood) so we can live freely with new purpose. Living under God’s grace has many benefits, as you can read below:

1 Praise the Lord, my soul;
    all my inmost being, praise his holy name.
2 Praise the Lord, my soul,
    and forget not all his benefits—
3 who forgives all your sins
    and heals all your diseases,
4 who redeems your life from the pit
    and crowns you with love and compassion,
5 who satisfies your desires with good things
    so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s.

Free River Stream photo and picture

Below are a few of my notes. I certainly have some thinking to do, but this is a good place to start. I hope you find these points useful and can personalize them for your circumstances! 

As God’s children, we are redeemed from sin, death, and fear. We are given new life and have the freedom to walk it out in faith and Victory. Collectively, we are redeemed to participate in God’s Kingdom and do good works, which He has prepared in advance for us to do (Ephesians 2:10).

But what good works did Jesus redeem me for specifically? They will be unique to me. I have a special purpose and hidden potential. My life belongs to Jesus, and what I do matters, but it will likely look different from everyone else.

What are the consequences of not living my full purpose? What will I miss out on? Who is depending on me to be faithful? Whatever the answer, it affects me, my family, my community, and the Church in general. If I don’t do my part, everything suffers. Jesus already did the main work, but He still has a plan for me to complete. Get going!

Sooo… What am I waiting for? What is holding me back? This could be apathy, rebellion, fear, etc., depending on the situation! It’s definitely worth thinking through and dealing with the root causes. Otherwise, I’ll never get started.

Each of us will have different answers to the questions I listed above. But, it is worth praying about what God wants you to know and do. There is great blessing joy, and peace when we are on His path for us. That doesn’t mean we won’t have a struggle, though!

Living redeemed takes courage, but what an adventure it is! Do your best and focus on progress, not perfection. Remember, we live under God’s abundant grace! He is committed and more than able to complete the good work he started in you (Philippians 1:6).

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Heavenly Father, thanks for redemption, new life, and grace. You are good, and so are your plans for me! Help me understand Your work in my life and how You have equipped me for it. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: What do you think God has redeemed you for specifically? Do you anticipate any changes, or are you already where you need to be?

Task: When praying for specific next steps, consider your personality, talents, passion areas, and life experiences. All of these can help determine if you are on the right path.

Posted on in Gratitude, Miscellaneous, Worship

Because He Lives

Life is constantly changing. In thermodynamics, entropy is a concept where things naturally move from order to disorder. Every day is a little different. Some moments seem routine, and others are completely unpredictable!

I am grateful that Jesus is our constant amidst the chaos. As I was thinking about how He is the only One who never changes, the song “Because He Lives” by Matt Maher came to mind. There’s also an old classic song that many of you are familiar with.

Because He lives, I can face tomorrow. Because Jesus lives, I have hope for challenging situations and difficult people. I can let go and let God. I can forgive or smile, treating people respectfully even when I don’t feel they deserve it.

Because He lives, every fear is gone. Yes, I can drive through any blizzard and do everything through Jesus, who strengthens me. I don’t have to go through life worried all the time because He gives me peace and changes the outcome. Fear has no place in my heart.

Because Jesus lives, I am free to enjoy the Life He has given me. I can follow His path without apology. I can say yes and no as I listen to Him. I can confidently do what He wants me to do, even when it differs from what is expected.

I know Jesus holds My life and my future in His hands. Because He lives, we have hope for today, tomorrow, and eternity! I can walk in Victory, knowing that Jesus will catch me and draw me near when I fall.

I love Easter because I can see Jesus’ love for me. I can trust in His goodness because  His heart beats for me. He proved that on the cross, and I see the evidence all around me!

I also appreciate that Jesus levels the playing field. Anyone can come to Him regardless of race, color, or creed. The only things needed are faith and repentance. He did the rest.

Everyone is God’s creation, but not everyone is His child. Be assured, YOU are called by the King of Kings. He invites you to come to Him today in order to know His Fatherly love and receive the heart of adoption.

Jesus is alive and well and loves you dearly! And because He lives, you can face Life’s uncertainty. He gives you joy for mourning, beauty for sorrow, and a new life in Him.

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Father, thanks for the gifts of mercy, grace, love, peace, and new life. Thank You for the Resurrection and the eternal hope we have in Jesus. In His Name, Amen

Question: What is your favorite part of the Resurrection story? 

Task: Check out the Easter week Bible devotions on the YouVersion phone app or the equivalent at Bible.com!

 

 

Posted on in Being Gracious, Food and Nutrition, Gratitude, Journey of Grace, Kindness, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Personality, Worship

Happy Registered Dietitian Day!

Woohoo! March is National Nutrition Month, and today is Registered Dietitian/Nutritionist Day! When I think of my career, I always enjoy looking back on God’s faithfulness. In college, I saw how practical nutrition and dietetics can be at home and as a service to others. Everybody needs food – it can be both fuel and fun!

This year, RDN Day seems to have come a little faster. Perhaps that’s because my team at work has been extra busy with coverage needs. Time has flown by, but we made it! In fact, our two coworkers are coming back next week!

Returning to our former routine will be good, but I also look forward to seeing my friends again! They have been missed! Can you tell I am really grateful for my team? We are always eager to help one another, but we also laugh a lot and care about each other.

I am also so thankful for God’s grace and provision. When I was asked to cover the home-based role last fall, I was a little nervous about driving in the winter weather. But God worked it all out. Only one day out of the last four months had snow. That day, I saw two Veterans and got permission to go home early. Win-win!

Naturally, there are days when I am tired or not feeling excited about going to work. When I get stressed, I feel like I am short on time. I don’t like missing deadlines or feeling like I let someone down! Reflecting on this, I have noticed a couple of patterns.

If I don’t take time to take care of myself (exercise, solid meals, sleep), I feel run down, which can affect my stress and mood. On the other hand, I have noticed that if I do make time for self-care, I can have the same chaotic schedule and feel good – energetic even! Regardless, I often walk into work and see someone I know, and instantly, I am glad I came!

Free ai generated salad vegetables illustration

As with anything, I can commit my day to the Lord and honor Him with quality work. I can show compassion to the many Veterans with pain. I can be cheerful when patients are running late. After we finish our appointment, I can take time to direct them to their next appointment. I can be patient when someone gets frustrated with the changes they feel they should make. I can call to check if someone is feeling better or applying what we discussed. When appropriate, I can joke with my patients as a way to build rapport.

I like to dispel nutrition myths, though it would be nice not to have to! I also enjoy using analogies to show how the body works. Basic principles don’t change, but my job is to tailor the information to what the person needs individually. I love teaching people how food helps them operate and feel good! In doing so, I hope they have peace with food and grow to trust their choices. I love seeing them give themselves grace and make progress with their health goals.

Although it is tough work sometimes, I am grateful to work as a nutrition professional. I can see and feel God moving in my life, and that overflows into everything else! Occasionally, I meet someone open about their faith in God. In those moments, we can talk about spiritual food – a whole new level of health!

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God, thanks for shaping my career over the years. Thanks for letting me serve people in practical ways. Help me nourish them and point them to you. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Question: Have you ever met with a Registered Dietitian? (That’s different than someone who took a ten-hour class over the Internet!) How can you see God at work in your life?

Task: Whatever you do today, consider how you can glorify God with your heart, soul, mind, and strength. In terms of nutrition, keep it simple. Remember these principles: balance of each food group, variety within each food group, consistency in daily habits, and moderation.

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Gratitude, Miscellaneous, Pivot, Worship

Finding Grace #418

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

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

Free Geese Pond photo and picture

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

This was a good week, and it flew by! I found myself praising God for many things, including less stress, beautiful weather, Lydia, His provision, and more!

Work went well and was very full—no surprise there! I needed to squeeze in an unexpected home visit and was grateful two coworkers volunteered to take a few of my scheduled patients. I love my team—they are all great ladies and helpers!

Beyond work, I did not feel overly stressed or rushed. I had plenty to do, but I could go slower and relax a bit. As a result, I had the energy to tackle a few small projects without hurrying. So, I feel really good about that!

The weather was great this week. We had a few flurries but no real snow accumulation. It was in the 30s and 40s, with a mix of clouds and sun. I am starting to see and hear a lot more birds, too. Spring is on its way!

Today, I was supposed to meet a friend for coffee, but she had to reschedule. So, while I was out, I ran some errands to pick up a few groceries and home maintenance supplies. I also did a little reading, walking, and played a game with Lydia.

Don’t forget Daylight Savings Time starts again tomorrow! Be sure to turn your clocks one hour forward tonight!

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

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

Posted on in Being Gracious, Fear/Don't Fake Brave, Gratitude, Journey of Grace, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Parenting, Perfectionism, Perseverance, Personality, Pivot, Wisdom, Worship

Cornerstone

Lately, I have noticed a subtle shift in my house. It is a good and natural thing, but it has surprised me. I recognized it this week, which helped deal with it. At least for now!

Basically, I have been a little short with Lydia, and it bothered me. She’s a great kid and doesn’t deserve that. I couldn’t figure out the issues until I prayed about it on the way to work Monday.

I think my feelings of frustration were related to a few factors. First, Lydia is growing more independent. So, she wants to have some say in what we do. I also want this for her, but to do that, I need to let go and let her. And that’s complicated sometimes. 🙂

Part of this is related to “puberty brain.” Normally, Lydia is obedient and reliable. But now, she “forgets” to complete tasks or wants to negotiate. That’s fine sometimes, but I put my foot down this past weekend and reset some boundaries. I know this is just the beginning, and communication will morph over the next few years. Again, this is all normal!

Another factor is that I have been the only adult at home for over a decade, which is a lot of responsibility. And, I have expectations about my house and space! Over time, I have taught Lydia to do various household tasks, but if she doesn’t follow through or moves like a sloth, I either have to do it or reinforce it… again. Both take more time and dilegence.

Free Medieval Castle Detail photo and picture

On Monday, I was also nervous about the timing of things at work. I had two complex patients coming on top of my regular patient load. They were expected to come back to back and had a lot of similarities which I needed to keep straight. I lost a little sleep about this, and so I was just a little grumpy with all that on my mind. 😉

Then, before work, I had to remind Lydia to move her shoes after I tripped on them. She knows not to leave them in the middle of the floor. I yelled out of exasperation and had to apologize. It all worked out, but on my way to work, I prayed and asked God to help me readjust… and as soon as I did, He did a little heart work!

On the radio, I heard a few songs, like Tasha Layton’s “Look What You’ve Done.” There’s a line about God tearing all the roots up from our hearts, getting rid of lies and replacing them with His Truth. I envisioned God taking my fears and grumpiness as I soaked up His love for me.

Then, I heard the song, “Cornerstone” by TobyMac. It was a great reminder of what really matters: Jesus. My identity is found in Christ alone, not in if the dishes get done (or if Lydia remembers them or not).

Jesus is my cornerstone, the perfect foundation. My security is found in Him. He is my hope, my joy, my peace. Jesus encompasses all I am, and His expectation is that I walk with Him. His mercy and grace cover all I do. No more, no less.

As Psalm 73:26 says, “My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.” Life can quickly change, and no two days are alike. If we let our circumstances or emotions run the show, we’ll keep spiraling out of control. One minute, we are “happy” when things go our way, and the next, we are losing our temper over towels left in the dryer. Ahem.

We can’t always predict how things will go, but we can run to God, who is our Rock. He is strong and steady, a sure place to land. He is the only thing that matters in the end.

I know the Lord will keep working in my heart and household. I have invited Him in and give Him full reign (sometimes hour by hour!). I am excited to see what Jesus does in me and who Lydia becomes in Him.

So today, instead of getting bent out of shape, I will let God shape me. He is the beginning and the end and knows all things. His plans for me are good and trustworthy! He can use any challenge for His purposes. Nothing is impossible for Him!

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God, thanks for being my foundation, my cornerstone. Thanks for the reminder that I am not in control and don’t need to be! Help me trust You more and let You direct my path. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Questions: Are you relying on God to steady you this week? How has He come through for you lately?

Task: Let God strip away everything that is not of Him. It is painful at times, but worth it! Check out this final song I heard on the radio, which helped tie everything together, “One Thing Remains” by Passion ft Kristian Stanfill.