Category: Worship

Posted on in Food and Nutrition, Gratitude, Kindness, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Personality, Worship

Let Me Count the Ways

Happy Valentine’s Day! Do you have any special plans today?

Typically, I keep this day fairly simple, though I usually give Lydia a little chocolate or a token gift, such as jewelry or flowers. She loves little surprises!

Valentine’s Day can be difficult for some people. You may or may not have a “date” today, but either way, perhaps you can still appreciate all the different facets of love.

God is love, so we can look to Him to fill us with His love and let it overflow to others. Love is meant to be given and received, shared. As such, it takes work (even in the best circumstances). It’s not always a piece of cake or a heart-shaped box of candy!

Lately, I’ve been counting all the ways I see God’s love and grace in my life. (Remember the cottage cheese?!) I hope that by sharing them with you, you will be inspired to look for Him in your daily routine, too!

Free Leaves Frost photo and picture

So here goes! We got a little snow last week, and it is already melting! Perhaps Spring is not too far off, as I have heard more birds singing! I also saw a few geese in the river, which has been thawing intermittently.

I attended an online meeting this week. The host greeted me (and others) by name, which made me feel seen. It would have been very easy to say, “Hello, everyone!” and just move on. I actually felt like I was more a part of the team, even though I didn’t know half the people present!

I went to a home visit about an hour away for work. I enjoyed listening to the radio and heard several songs about God’s love. It was a peaceful drive, and I was glad to spend the time with the Lord… while getting paid! 😉

The two-hour round trip flew by, and I enjoyed the beautiful flat view. I am a Midwesterner, after all! It was such a sweet surprise to see two hawks and a bald eagle when it flew across the road right before me!

Later, I stopped for gas and used some store rewards for eighty cents off a gallon! I previously had trouble getting my account to work correctly, which is why they all built up over months. However, one of the store employees took the time to help me and explain why it all was disconnected. He also provided a phone number for more extensive customer service, promptly fixing everything!

Recently, I noticed a cute little heart in the bottom of a cup after I finished my drink. It brightened my day. Another time, I picked up some fancy bread from Great Harvest Bread Company. Oh my, it was divine! I’m calling that an extra bit of God’s grace… taste and see that the Lord is good! 

Free Thailand Leaves photo and picture

To clarify, all of the above examples are just a small sampling — truly, there are plenty of times when it doesn’t go my way. Even so, I can “count them all joy” because they help me lean on God all the more. It’s not all about me!

God’s love, mercy, and grace are endless toward His children. In fact, we are blessed to be a blessing. That means we can serve others with a cheerful heart and gratitude for all God has done for us. We can even choose to be inconvenienced so others can have it a little easier. Then, they may draw close to Jesus, too!

During another home visit this week, I met a Veteran who was still adjusting to his new home. He was having a difficult time but started beaming when I fixed the problem with his bedside radio. He loves classical music, and I hope it brings him a little peace.

At work, I took some difficult calls to help out a friend. On another day, I offered a coworker my (cleaned) earplugs to help her focus when construction noises interrupted her concentration. I took someone else a couple of Papa Murphy’s pizzas to help her during a rough time. I love my coworkers and count them as dear friends!

God’s love permeates all we do. His grace is all around us; it overflows in abundance. As you notice Jesus in your life, be sure to thank Him! You are perfectly loved, known, and accepted. There’s never been a moment where He left you alone.

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God, thanks for all the ways You love me! Open my eyes to Your blessings and help me share them with others. Help me point people to You! In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Question: Where have you seen God’s love and grace in your life this week?

Tasks: Trace God’s blessings in your life this week, and then see how you can bless others!

Posted on in Food and Nutrition, Gratitude, Miscellaneous, Worship

Trusting the Process

This week, I met with a patient with some gut issues. We’ve met a few times before, and he has changed his diet over time. Things have come full circle, in that some of the foods just aren’t working for him and his goals. He’s still having irritating symptoms, which tells me it’s time to try something different.

That led to me going deep into the molecular structure of FODMAPs, many of which are complex carbohydrates. FODMAP foods are typically quite healthy, but for one in seven people, they can cause discomfort. In those cases, it is often best to briefly reduce or eliminate these offenders to let the gut rest. Then, we slowly reintroduce them and see what happens. The ultimate goal is to be able to eat as much variety as possible.

So, I devised some funny ways to explain what was going on internally. Perhaps my on-the-spot bus analogy needs refining, but it made the point. 🙂 We strategized for his next appointment and discussed how FODMAPs are broken down in the body.

While general nutrition principles apply to everyone – think balance, variety, consistency, and moderation- each solution is tailored for the individual patient. FODMAPs, in particular, have many nuances and require a lot of skill and interpretation.

In some ways, nutrition is just common sense. We all know fruits and vegetables are good for us. But, my job involves rebuilding someone’s habits to reach their specific goals and needs. That’s one reason online searches for nutrition information can be ill-advised.

Premium Vector | Caffeine molecule 3d

When I came home, Lydia was doing a science assignment about molecules. Hers was a digital process where she added atoms in a school app to form various molecules. (Note one of my favorites in the picture above!) She does not know how most of these molecules and chemicals are used in real life, but she had fun learning and was surprised when I told her about my day. What timing!

I was reminded of the hours I spent in college putting little plastic molecule kits together with my friends. We spent weekends trying to cram all the details into our brains. It was a group effort in Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry!

The experiences with my patient and Lydia caused me to reflect on my career, the people I have met, and all I have learned. It has not always been predictable, but I have landed in a good spot by God’s grace! 

As you know, Life is full of twists and turns. Some are expected, and some catch us by surprise. But God can and will use anything to achieve His purposes. His plans for us are always good. Even when that includes random molecular science kits.

Whatever you are struggling with today, don’t give up. Someday, you will see the payoff. In the meantime, remember that God is good and loves you dearly. Connect with Him along the way. He is always working things out for your good and His glory. Remove distractions so you can hear Him more easily and move quickly to obey. Trust Him and the process!

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God, thanks for guiding my journey. You are so faithful through the ups and downs, twists and turns. Help me trust and obey as You lead me. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: As you think of your own journey, what similarities and differences do you see between then and now? Do you see any links along the way?

Tasks: Write down a list of all the ways God has come through for you over the years. Try looking back a few months and go from there.

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

Finding Grace #412

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 Road Trees photo and picture

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

This week was great and full of social interactions with friends, family, and blog readers. 🙂 Thanks for reading and sharing my post on Wednesday! I appreciate that something so funny and random as cottage cheese resonated with people! God is soo good!

Work was full but good! I had some really nice patients, and I had some encouraging conversations with my coworkers as we discussed ways to cope with stress. We reminded ourselves to take little breaks and take deep breaths. We shared jokes, memes, and links to comedians. We swapped appointments and covered for each other when we could. It really helps to know we are all on the same page.

The weather was in the 30s and 40s, gray with a little mist and ice. I don’t mind because it is such a change from our usual! This morning, I noticed some beautiful hoarfrost on my trees. Later, my neighbor was sitting outside on her porch, enjoying the sunny weather with her dog. We waved as we ran errands, surprised that at 37 degrees, it felt like we didn’t even “need” our coats!

This week was awesome in terms of checking in with people. On Sunday, we met with two sets of friends and then family over Zoom. During the week, my coworkers all connected, as I already explained. Then, I set up a couple get-togethers with friends, and one of my best friends called. We shared some of our ups and downs, and she really helped ease my mind. Then, today, I talked with family before Lydia and I went to enjoy coffee with the friends.

Tonight, Lydia and I are enjoying a movie and Chinese food for dinner! I might try a little painting, too. A perfect way to end the week. Thanks, Lord!

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

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

Posted on in Food and Nutrition, Gratitude, Miscellaneous, Worship

A Funny and Timely Reminder

Yesterday, I had a funny and timely reminder that God loves me, listens to me, and helps me. You might just think it’s silly (as you read along), but He is so good to me!

In the morning, I brushed my teeth and thought about a few random things I wanted to remember. I have started leaving sticky notes in the bathroom to make it easier to jot those ideas down. Nonetheless, yesterday, I was trying to get out the door for work, so I promptly forgot to write down my thoughts. That happens often! 😉

Well, later at work, I was listening to a webinar and couldn’t shake that I had forgotten something at home. Does that happen to you, too, at the most random times? I think it has something to do with a boost in creativity when the brain is relaxed. Either way, I knew “it” started with a “c” but couldn’t think of it.

It nagged at me, so I prayed and asked God to help me remember it when I got home. Then, I moved on and just let it go. I had other tasks to do and needed to put my brain power toward them! Flash forward to me pulling into the driveway after work…

I opened the garage door and started to pull inside. That’s when I saw my new-ish refrigerator on the wall directly before me. Suddenly, I remembered what it was!

Free A Bowl Food photo and picture

“Cottage cheese!!” I yelled. I laughed so hard for a few minutes. It brought me such joy that the Holy Spirit reminded me of the cottage cheese in the garage, which needed to be brought inside so we could use it before it expired. Very practical and timely, right? I knew it was important, haha!

I immediately told Lydia about this when I came inside. I had my hat, gloves, coat, backpack… and the cottage cheese. She might have thought I was crazy, but I felt so loved by God! I am sure He was laughing with joy, too!

Of course, you may not even like cottage cheese, but God wants to bless you similarly. He loves to see our delight when He answers our prayers – no matter how big or small.

Don’t be afraid to ask for what you need. Your loving Heavenly Father already knows. He longs for you to come to Him so He can bless you! That said, it’s not about what He can do for you, but rather who you are becoming. Like Jesus, trusting God for every little thing.

Now, I could really use His help finding a couple small 2024 calendars I misplaced… stay tuned!

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Father God, thanks for graciously helping me remember things that are important to me! Help me remember things that are important to YOU! May I honor You in all I do. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: In what way have you asked God for help lately? Was it something huge (that only He can do), or was it something funny, like helping you remember cottage cheese?

Tasks: Let God be God. He can handle the small things and remind you to do your part when it’s time. But, He is also trustworthy enough to take care of the BIG things, which He will do in His own timing. Trust Him and let Him surprise you!

Posted on in Being Gracious, Gratitude, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Prayer, Words, Worship

Praise Him Anywhere

On my way to work yesterday, I heard the song “Praise You Anywhere“ by Brandon Lake. It’s a good song, but I hadn’t paid much attention to it until yesterday. I sat in my car for a few minutes, thinking about various places I could praise God.

I like to sing in the shower, in the car, and while cooking. I’m sure there are other places I worship God, but I haven’t thought much about it lately. Sometimes, I like to just be quiet and feel His presence.

That said, I don’t have to sing in order to praise God! I often thank God for various things, either out loud or in my heart. I might praise Him for the weather, or a kindness I perceived. I may thank Him for light traffic or meeting someone else’s needs. I pray blessings of over people I love dearly and complete strangers I see as I go about my day.

I love that praise can be a part of prayer, which is just talking to God. I like to check in and pray at meal times, when I wake up and go to bed.

Currently, I am thanking God for sending us less snow than usual. I’m sure we will get plenty of it soon, but it has been helpful for my current role at work. The cold weather is important and beneficial at the same time. There is beauty to be found in every season!

With the winter we’ve had lately, my sister sent a picture of a sun dog. We see them a lot in North Dakota, but she hadn’t seen one for a while in Illinois, where she still lives. It was a praiseworthy thing to photograph!

I love what Psalm 113 says about praise. Here is part of verses 1-3:

Praise the Lord. Praise the Lord, you his servants; praise the name of the Lord.

Let the name of the Lord be praised, both now and forevermore.

From the rising of the sun to the place where it sets, the name of the Lord is to be praised.

Praising God doesn’t have to be awkward. Really, it is the most natural thing we can do. If you don’t know what to say or do, start with what you see. Tell Jesus how thankful you are for objects in your environment. Next, move through the other physical senses (hearing, touch, smell, taste, and proprioception). Make it a full-body experience!

Then, tell Him how you feel emotionally. Praise Him for His help, provision, healing, and anything else that comes to mind. If you are struggling, that’s okay. He understands. Praise Him anyway!

We were created for a relationship with our Heavenly Father. Whether you sing or talk, you don’t need fancy words! Just bring your heart!

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God, we praise You! You alone are worthy. Help us praise and worship You with our whole hearts and all of our gratitude. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Where do you like to sing or praise God? Do you find it easy or a bit awkward?

Tasks: As you go about your day, look for ways to praise God. Consider tracking your praises and see how long your list gets! For another great Brandon Lake song, check out “Gratitude.” Praise Him anywhere!

 

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

Big Star or Bust

It amazes me how the Nativity story is something we have heard and read about year after year, but it always has something new for us!

Whether you think about it from the perspective of the Shepherds, Mary, Joseph, the Angels, Wisemen, or even the animals (surely they were surprised, too!), there are so many angles! In other parts of the Gospel of Luke, I’m sure Anna, Simeon, and Elizabeth had some important insights, too.

All of the people in the Nativity story had their lives interrupted by a little baby. And, not just any baby; Jesus was/is God!

It’s likely they were each struggling in one way or another. The Roman occupation would not have been easy. Mary, Joseph, and the Shepherds were not made of money. Even the Wisemen would have been worn out from a lengthy journey. Nonetheless, they all regrouped and went with it, apparently!

Lydia made a funny comment about the Wisemen recently, who would have traveled several months or possibly years. She said, “What if they had a sign on their caravan that said ‘Big Star or Bust?!'” We both laughed, but it made me think a bit more.

Free sirius star big dog illustration

Do I go all in as I seek Jesus? Well, I usually try to, but my cracked car windshield is getting replaced today. With the colder weather, I didn’t want to take any chances.

It was rather inconvenient, and I was at a loss for what to do. Then, two friends were willing to help me swap my car with a rental after work (yesterday and today). God knows what I need and how to solve it!

Oddly enough, the car I ended up with last night was not the one I rented; it was one that was available! I could choose between a big truck, a little truck, a minivan, and a Chevy Spark. I was thinking of just getting back and forth to work and didn’t want to have to figure out the size and spacing on the fly. So, I chose the compact Chevy and laughed all the way home.

See the picture – it looks like the back half of the car is missing! At least I saved a little money with the smaller car! 😉

Sometimes, “Big Star or Bust” has to be a group effort. We are not meant to live in isolation. Even Jesus had a family and friends, as he ran a public ministry. He had to rely on others to some degree. Although He was often on the go, He always had time for what mattered.

This season can be tough in many ways. Hustling and bustling often lead to stress, while high expectations can lead to disappointment when things don’t go as planned. If you are dealing with grief or loss, well, that can take sorrow to a whole new level.

I know full well the grief cycle mixed with holidays. Feel free to look back on just about any post from each December I have blogged (starting in 2015). Each year has gotten a little better, thankfully! And, I am grateful for all the continued prayers and support.

Perhaps your “Big Star or Bust” journey is different than mine. Your strengths and challenges are unique, but so are your resources. God’s grace is sufficient whether you have a lot or a little. Just keep bringing Him your best, and be willing to accept a little help along the way!

Keep moving forward, and you will find the Prize you seek (Jesus!) if you don’t give up. #bigstarorbust

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God, thanks for the gift of laughter amid a potentially difficult season. Thanks for taking good care of us. Help us chase after you with all our hearts. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Do you have a “Big Star or Bust” experience?! How are you pursuing Jesus this week? What does that look like for you?

Task: Whatever challenges you face today, turn your face to Jesus. Seek Him with all you’ve got. He completely understands and will never let you down!

Posted on in Books and Movies I Like, Food and Nutrition, Gratitude, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Parenting, Worship

Jaw Dropping Truth

For this Advent season, Lydia and I have been preparing our hearts in a few ways. In the morning, we are reading from Max Lucado’s book, In the Manger. It contains excerpts from his other books and many deep points spelled out simply.

In the evening, we read a Chapter of Luke’s gospel and then discuss anything that comes to mind. We also have a couple of Advent calendars. One is Peanuts-themed, and one has chocolate.

One morning, we started reading the Max Lucado book during breakfast. I paused to make sure Lydia understood. I asked her if she knew that Mary was a young teenager, and to my surprise, Lydia’s jaw dropped! She was flabbergasted! So much so that I had to ask her to shut her mouth so the oatmeal wouldn’t fall out.

Free Blueberries Oats photo and picture

Lydia mentioned that Mary could have been a student at her school (age-wise). “I’ve babysat for little kids, but I can’t imagine if it was my baby!” I think she has a newfound respect for the story of Baby Jesus!

Then, this became a funny conversation about puberty and how Mary might have felt. We agreed she must have been open-minded, trustworthy, and kindhearted to sacrifice her body and desires without knowing all the details.

Soon, the discussion moved to how Mary’s life differed from ours. She would not have had access to television, the internet, or social media. She couldn’t let toddler Jesus watch PBS Kids when she needed a break. She didn’t have a cell phone, Facetime, or texting. So, perhaps that helped shield her from some comments, but in a small town, people talk.

Mary was likely shunned with little support at first. Maybe that’s one reason she visited her Cousin Elizabeth. Thankfully, God protected her when He prompted Joseph to stand by Mary. They must have been a special pair!

Free Oatmeal Porridge photo and picture

God must’ve known what He was doing when He created Mary and Joseph. Whatever their personalities and strengths, He entrusted them with Jesus. It was up to them to accept it, but God knew what He was doing!

You, know God has each of our lives planned out, too. Our personalities, strengths, passions, and even weaknesses are no surprise to Him. They are part of our special purpose. God has envisioned each of our days before even one of them comes to pass. He even knows all the words I will write well before I even have a blog topic in mind! #mindblown

So, we can trust God will prepare our path and make sure we are on it. What joy it must bring Him when we walk where He leads! May we keep an open mind and heart when God shows up in exciting ways and sets an opportunity before us.

Even today, we can invite Jesus into our day. Ask Him to reign in your heart and see what He does! But, maybe close your mouth before your food falls out. 🙂

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God, You are so wise and patient with us! You always have good plans in store. May we trust You enough to say YES to the life You have designed for us. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: What is God asking you to do for Him? It could be big and exciting, or small and mundane. Each situation can be a gift to Him when we have a good attitude.

Task: If you feel unqualified for something God calls you to do, take a deep breath before getting started. Chances are, that’s a sign you are on the right track! If you knew all the answers, you wouldn’t need to trust God! He designed us to depend on Him!

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

Out Of Darkness

Earlier in the week, I listened to an amazing interview that I keep reviewing in my mind. The person interviewed was Kat Von D, of Miami Ink and LA Ink fame. Back then, she was a mouthy drug addict and alcoholic. She reports she was miserable and hopeless, living in darkness. Yet, she still showed compassion toward her tattoo clients when they shared their purposes for getting inked (usually memorials related to grief and loss).

Recently, she received publicity for being baptized… in a small Baptist Church in Indiana. I saw the video and was glad for her. I viewed it as a testament to God’s grace and mercy. Sadly, many people questioned her authenticity – though she has been followed by cameras for over twenty years. She wanted to record it for herself and as a public statement of her new life in Jesus.

To me, Kat Von D came across as well-thought-out and sincere. Coming to Christ was not on a whim or only based on emotion. She looked at all the evidence of Christianity and made her decision. She even explained why she chose to attend a Baptist church. Basically, they accepted her immediately. Her pastor is a great teacher, and she is growing so much in her Tuesday Bible study with the older ladies. (I LOVE THAT.) The old hymns are simple yet profound, unlike going to what feels like a Sunday worship ‘concert’ where she is distracted as a songwriter. That makes sense to me!

Free Tattoo Hand photo and picture

It is to be expected that some of her old crowd would be upset, but even more awful has been the comments she has received from Christians telling her she’s not doing it right (of all people!). Let this be a lesson to all of us… it is damaging to turn people off before they ever meet Jesus!

Ms. Von D talked about how she was raised in a Christian missionary home but rebelled when her parents didn’t answer her doubts adequately. By age 14, she was on the streets and making poor choices. Still, she did not blame her parents and later said she was grateful to have that background because she remembered the Bible stories she learned as a child when she was at her lowest point in life. Praise God!

Eventually, she started to question if her life choices were on the path she wanted to be. She got sober and clean, and tossed her books about the occult. She sought Truth and found Jesus during the COVID-19 pandemic. She wanted to set a good example for her child, but she also wanted peace and found hope and new life in Jesus.

Later, Kat Von D shared how Jesus makes her a much better wife and mother. She said people would not believe how much she has changed, but it has been dramatic. She also explained how famous friends like Alice Cooper have helped her understand how to balance her personal faith and public persona. (Can you even imagine?!)

Each person who becomes a Christian undergoes a sanctification process, with the help of the Holy Spirit. Kat Von D is now a beloved sister in Christ, and it will be interesting to see how she changes over time. I may not agree with everything she does, but I would love to meet her for coffee! Either way, she has a big platform, and balancing everything in the public eye cannot be easy. She needs our prayers, not our criticism.

No one is perfect or gets it right all the time. We all struggle, but God created each of us to be unique according to His purposes. Who am I to say Kat Von D has to look like me or listen to the same music as me? I doubt she will change her mostly black goth look anytime soon. And, if God ever prompts her to change, that will be between Him and her. We are each accountable to Him first and foremost. (But, for now, I think she is beautiful!)

I was tearing up at various points in the interview. It was refreshing to get a snapshot of many topics, each one pertinent and practical for today. The interview was about Kat Von D being transferred out of darkness, but she and the host kept their focus on Jesus.

I’m grateful to serve a good and gracious God. No one is beyond His mercy and love. Thank You, Lord!

The kindness of God leads us to repentance (see Romans 2:4). Today, do not harden your heart towards Jesus, but come to Him with all your questions. He is so patient with you (2 Peter 3:9), but He will not wait forever. All Truth is His, and He will never lead you into confusion. Instead, He has the power and desire to set you free indeed!

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God, You are so wonderful! I’m in awe of how much You love us and how much You pursue us. Thanks for not giving up on me. Please guide us and make us more like Jesus. In His Name, Amen

Questions: What do you think about Kat Von D’s faith journey? Do you have any tattoos or plan to get any? What does/would it look like? (I don’t have any!)

Tasks: Listen to the interview here. I also posted it on my Grace and Lemonade Facebook site earlier this week!

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

O Is For Orchestra

On Sunday, I took Lydia to a show at the Fargo-Moorhead Symphony Orchestra. It was called, “Scotland Forever,” and featured an incredible bagpipe player. We listened to some songs from Braveheart, and a funny Orkney wedding song, and some Gaelic music. We wore plaid scarves and enjoyed ourselves!

I wasn’t clear on the difference between an orchestra and a symphony orchestra, so I looked it up online. Basically, an orchestra could imply different-sized ensembles, but a symphony orchestra is the largest type. It contains all the instruments to play songs with three or four-part movements (aka symphonies).

As I listened to the music, I was also watching the musicians. It was fun to see where the music was coming from. Lydia and I were closer to the violins and percussion, and I tried to anticipate when these instruments would sound.

Over fifteen violinists were playing the same music, yet each one of them played a little differently. Some sat still and just moved their arms. Others moved their whole bodies to the music! It was fascinating!

At one point, a percussionist had a little wooden block and hit it just once during the whole song. The other instruments built to this part, which was the climax before the next movement. It’s sooo simple, but the song would have been missing something without it!

Then, the percussionist returned to waiting until the next instrument was needed. He waited a long time, as did other musicians (like the oboe player with a solo… who knew?!).

The conductor was excellent. I’ve seen him before, and he is fun and engaging. He stands on a podium so he can see everyone, and they can see him. As he organized the musicians, he beckoned them to each play their part on time and then rest until it was their turn again. Some instruments played for most of the song, while others only had a tiny part. Yet, each was important, and the conductor included each one.

Timing is key with an orchestra and also where God is concerned. Listening to the music, I envisioned God as the conductor skillfully orchestrating our lives in concert with His master plan.

Each of us has an important part, but often, we compare our roles to those sitting next to us or those with different skills or tools/instruments.

God is both the Master composer and conductor. He can see all of us from His greater perspective, but He also knows the plan because He created it! In life, He organizes all our songs and steps if we pay attention and let Him.

We don’t have to feel bad if everyone around us has a bigger or more active role. Perhaps God is saving your effort for the most impact. Your part may be tiny, like a triangle, or maybe it is much more grand, like a cello. But, without you, it would be incomplete.

As lovely as the orchestra music was on Sunday, I am reminded that God’s plan is even more perfect and beautiful. We can trust Him to orchestrate our lives because He loves us so much!

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God, thanks for the gift of music. Help us understand the skills and tools You have given us and make the best of each opportunity. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Do you play a musical instrument? If you could be an instrument in the orchestra, which one would you be?

Tasks: Pray about your current role (whatever/wherever it is) and ask God to help you see the big picture. Pray for wisdom to know when to jump in and when to rest. Be sure to keep your eyes on Him and listen to Him.

Posted on in Being Gracious, Fear, Faith, and Moving Forward book, Fear/Don't Fake Brave, Gratitude, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Personality, Pivot, Prayer, Wisdom, Worship

Purpose in Provision

This week, I received a glowing performance appraisal at work, per usual. It was just what I expected because I do my best and the requirements are clear.  While I love what I do, and do it well, I sometimes compare my success or reward with others (even though I don’t have all the details to judge accurately!).

Instead of going into a downward spiral, I started thinking about all the ways God has provided for me, all the ways He recognizes or acknowledges me when others don’t. Sometimes, we feel we have everything we need, and sometimes, we feel lack. That doesn’t mean God is doing a poor job; perhaps we just lose our perspective occasionally. 

We may feel overlooked, forgotten, or unappreciated. It’s easy to focus on what someone else has or is doing and wish we had that, too. We want that friendship or relationship. We want the same chance or deal. We covet the opportunity, promotion, or the level of responsibility.

Often, there are hidden downsides to success. Just because someone looks successful doesn’t mean they appreciate it or have no other problems.

Free Mountains Forest photo and picture

I wonder how much time, effort, and skill it must’ve taken to get where that person is. In most cases, there are no overnight successes but just years of grueling labor.

Am I willing to do whatever it took for them to get there? These days, I’d say the chance is low, lol. I like my time and freedom! But if I do want to challenge myself, then I should start taking steps and learning now.

Flipping it around, I am reminded of what it took to get me here. It was quite the journey, and yet I am so grateful for all the ways God has shown up just for me…. with personalized provision for whatever I am going through each time. He is faithful!

In the off-chance that someone cheated or something truly was not fair, they will get what they have coming to them. It may take a little time, but God is just!

But, when life doesn’t seem fair, I remember that I am no longer of this world. I am a citizen of Heaven, and my Father knows exactly what I need. If there is any lack, King Jesus will soon make it right, so I don’t need to worry. His purpose for me is unique, so His provision is unique to my circumstances and environment. 

God’s purpose and provision are linked! I don’t need to compare ourselves or feel less than. If I stay close to Jesus, I will be right on track and have everything I need.

Free Mountain Banff photo and picture

I have a beautiful house, great neighbors, and an awesome family. I also have a job I feel was crafted just for me. I have favor with God, my manager, and my coworkers. Each of us has different qualifications and responsibilities that match. Each of us brings positive energy and a host of skills to our strong team. I just happen to work part-time with a nearly full-time schedule. I mentor others at work, and I am still available when Lydia needs me.

If my particular skills aren’t always recognized or rewarded, maybe that’s a good reminder that they are not the most important thing. I am called to serve, not gain attention. If there is something I need, God will make sure I get it in due time. (Psalm 84:11).

In fact, read John 21, paying attention to verse 22. Jesus wants us to focus on our own relationship with Him because our mission flows out of that. The best thing we can do is stay close to Him.

There are several things each of us can do while we wait. We can show up with a smile, do our best, and be honest. We can practice self-care (making sure we are eating well, moving a little, and sleeping enough). We can honor those around us and love them like Jesus. We can cultivate peace, joy, and contentment, along with gratitude and patience. Character counts!

Fear, self-centeredness, and lack seem to run together, don’t they? Instead, Jesus showed us how to live with an outward-focused, faith-filled, abundant life. Whatever purpose He has for us, we can be confident it includes His peace, preparation, and provision. He always comes through for us and knows exactly what we need!

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God, thanks for Your peace and provision! You take such good care of Your children. Help us remember You prepare us and provide for us according to Your unique purposes for us. Help us use all our strengths for Your glory. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: What are you doing to invest in your future? Are you complaining or planting seeds?

Tasks: Next time you feel slighted or overlooked, remember all the ways God takes care of you. Make a list if you have to! Remain close to Jesus. He is so good!