Tag: Jesus

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

Baptism Blessings

This past Sunday, Lydia took a big step in obedience to Christ. She got water baptized!

She first accepted Jesus into her heart on July 29th, 2017 (by asking for forgiveness for her sins and inviting Him in). Thankfully, we remember because I wrote a note in her Jesus Storybook Bible! I love how this little kid’s Bible explains God’s heart and the Gospel.

Back then, she felt close to Jesus because we talked about Him often, as we do now. But, she had not yet made a decision to live for Him. That day, we were reading in her Bible about Pharoah and the Egyptian plagues. Her sense of justice made her feel the Egyptians deserved all of God’s wrath! This led to a conversation about Heaven and Hell.

Lydia was confident she was going to Heaven, but when I explained that we all deserve the full punishment for our sins (death, Hell), she was surprised. I asked her if she had ever asked Jesus for forgiveness and gave her the opportunity. We prayed right then and there!

Because Lydia was only five years old, I waited to have her baptized. I wanted her to be able to make the decision on her own. Older believers may get baptized right away, but it was important to wait until she understood the commitment more.

At any rate, it’s been a topic we’ve discussed more over the last two years. We hoped to have family come to celebrate with us, but that’s difficult to coordinate all the variables and line it up with a baptism date. So, in the end, we just did what worked best for us.

Over the course of a couple of weeks, our pastor spoke about baptisms, one with water and one with the Holy Spirit. He talked about obedience to Christ and following His precedent, among other points. It was just the boost Lydia needed. We both agreed the timing was right! So, I filled out the paperwork, and she picked out her clothes and towel. 🙂

Leading up to Sunday, however, Lydia said she was nervous. She had made a poor decision (for her), which made her feel unworthy. I explained how none of us are worthy; that’s why we need Jesus!

Then, the night before, Lydia said she thought she would be more excited. I reminded her that we don’t need to ‘feel’ anything to be obedient. Each of us may exhibit excitement in different ways. Some people bounce off the walls with giddiness, and some calmly move forward with less energy and a smile. At least, this is more in line with Lydia’s (and my) personality. We can get excited, but we are pretty stable overall.

Sunday itself was awesome. Lydia and about forty other people decided to take the plunge! And it just so happened to be Pentecost! This is when Jesus’ disciples were filled with the Holy Spirit; they began speaking in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them. In the Old Testament, God’s Spirit rested on certain people, but now He lives within us! So, it was an extra special blessing to be baptized on this day!

Afterward, Lydia and I went to Panera for lunch and then to Scheels for a new pair of shoes. That evening, we talked with family on Zoom, and my parents told her how proud of her they were. At bedtime, Lydia said she was really glad that she was brave and had a good experience! What a turning point for her!

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Heavenly Father, thanks for washing us clean and making us whole. Thank You for sharing Jesus and the Holy Spirit with us! Help us live for You every day. In Jesus’ Name Amen

Question: What is one step you can take to follow Jesus more closely today?

Task: Check out this sermon on baptism from my church. It starts at 39:33 and is called “A Fresh Look at Water Baptism.”

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

Sensing God’s Presence

The heat is already setting in here in Fargo, so it seems Summer will soon be upon us! At the same time, that means Construction season is also here, so all the orange cones, neon clothing, and flashing lights are in view.

Really, I don’t mind, except when I have a detour that gets me lost or makes me late! But, sometimes, I just find a new way to get somewhere or enjoy a scenic route I would have otherwise missed. Either way, Spring and Summer help me be in tune with all my senses, which in turn, point me to God.

On my walks in to work from the parking lot, I hear motorcycles and other traffic, lawnmowers, birds chirping, etc. I am grateful for my hearing because I serve many Veterans who have lost some or all of their hearing.

I love seeing all the beautiful trees: red/pink crab apple, dogwood, and who knows the rest! I have also enjoyed the multicolored tulips,  green grass, blue sky, and yellow sun!

Free Flowers Petals photo and picture

We have also enjoyed tasting fresh veggies, salads, and fruit. Especially blueberries, watermelon, pineapple, or maybe even a fruit popsicle. Oh, I do love s’mores as well!

That reminds me of the smells associated with campfires and grilling. Also, I have had people give me fresh flowers two weeks in a row. Thanks to my family and the friend who gave them to me!

We mowed the lawn last week and felt some of the grass tickling the back of our legs (yes, it grew faster than I expected!). And, on Sunday, I spent time on the deck barefoot!

There are two other senses that often get overlooked. These are vestibular and proprioception. These are related to the sense of touch and involve movement and balance. For this example, Lydia and I have had fun playing outdoor games, riding bikes, and going for walks.

That makes me curious… how do you experience God in your day-to-day life? Where do you sense Him at work? Do you hear His voice… and listen? Do you see His hand moving in your circumstances, working everything for your good? Do you feel His love personally or through others? Do you taste the goodness and joy around you? Do you catch a whiff of His grace? You can use your imagination a little here, but it’s worth some serious thought!

Each of us may sense God differently, as He made us all unique, but His Truth stands firm. While seasons come and go, God never changes! He is our solid Rock, and according to Hebrews 13:8, “Jesus Christ is the same, yesterday, today, and forever.” He is with us and for us always. May we find joy in the beauty around us, and may it lead us to Jesus!

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God, thanks for designing me to yearn for You. Draw me near and speak to me in ways I can understand. Don’t let me miss what You are doing in my life. Let me join you and help serve others! In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: What are your responses to the questions above? How can you seek the Lord today?

Tasks: Watch this 3-minute video about the colors of creation. It goes through how our eyes perceive colors and how that changes throughout the day. God is an amazing Creator!!

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

Keep Moving Toward

On Sunday morning, Lydia and I were at church. The message was about healing and trusting God. Instead of physical healing, I was writing notes about some habits I am working to change. I know I need God’s help to make real progress and swap in better choices.

At the end of the sermon, our pastor asked people who needed healing to head to the aisle for prayer. Healing can be physical, mental, emotional, etc. I felt content that God met my need, so I didn’t move, but several other people did.

Soon, our pastor asked those people to raise their hands if they needed someone to pray with them. I hadn’t planned on praying for anyone, as many other people had volunteered.

Free Holding Hands Bible photo and picture

Well, then I noticed a woman in front of us raising her hand. She and her husband appeared to be supporting their daughter. I told Lydia to scoot over so I could go pray with this family. At the moment, I just wanted to meet the need in front of me. I have personally felt the impact of people praying for me at just the right time.

So, I don’t think Lydia quite understood what I meant. She just stood there while I was trying to pass by on my way to the aisle. After a little back and forth, I put my hands on her shoulders, somewhat forcefully set her aside, and said, “MOVE!! Get out of my way.”

I don’t usually need to use that tone with Lydia, and I did apologize later for hurting her feelings. She was a little upset at first, but I explained that I wanted to be obedient. I didn’t want to miss an opportunity for God to use me. So I needed to move toward the need and His calling.

Perhaps I was a little fired up because I felt like I had my own mini breakthrough with the Lord during the sermon. I had been kind of ho-hum about my habits, but since I was able to write a basic plan with the Lord’s help, I felt free. So when I said, “MOVE!! Get out of my way,” I was also speaking in spiritual terms. Whether it’s Satan’s craftiness or just my own reserve, I cannot afford to delay God’s plans in my life.

As a Christ follower, I am essentially on mission every day. Jesus is the King, and I serve Him. I should not be self-centered or self-seeking. I can’t let fear stop me. I am called to love others and be available at a moment’s notice to GO.

God constantly calls me to move toward the messy parts of life. Jesus certainly did, and He is my example! If I don’t sense Him at work, then I am likely in a comfort zone, which needs to dealt with ASAP. It’s only then that I can actually fix the problem, change, and grow.

In short, I can’t settle for less than God’s best. That includes healing and eternity, but it also means joining Him in His work now. I don’t want to miss out because I am hung up on worthless habit. Lord, help me!

I did not get a chance to talk with the family after the service, but the mother smiled at me in gratitude. I’m so glad I was able to lay aside my own feelings and plans to serve the Lord. Plus, it became a good teaching moment for Lydia.

Remember, as the Church, we are the hands and feet of Jesus. No habit, project, or personal goal compares with following Jesus and impacting others for Him. When life gets difficult, it’s tempting to run away or drag our feet, letting fear or procrastination become the default. But, dare I say: MOVE!! Get out of your own way!

But, RUN to Jesus, FIGHT to stay close to Him. Face the battle in front of you. Give it all you’ve got, knowing it’s really His strength and power working through you. If God is for you, who can be against you?!

We have to keep moving TOWARD to keep moving FORWARD.

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God, thanks for calling us to spread Your love and serve others. Renew my mind and transform me, Lord. Fill me with grace and compassion to see the needs around me. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Are you running away from or running toward your challenges today? What habit or goal do you need to adjust in order to serve the Lord?

Task: MOVE!! Get out of the way!! Keep moving TOWARD so you can keep moving FORWARD! Read and ponder Romans 12:1-2 and Hebrews 12:1-2.

Posted on in Books and Movies I Like, Gratitude, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Personality, Pivot, Prayer, Wisdom

Hearing God’s Heart

In my Bible time yesterday, I was in Isaiah 43-45. I was listening in the car via the YouVersion Bible App. It’s part of a Bible Project reading plan I am doing with friends.

I enjoy listening to the Bible because I often hear things I may have missed while reading. I can always go back and re-read a passage, but I can better understand the bigger picture when I listen. Reading is still important, though, because going slower helps you digest it in other ways!

Yesterday, these two chapters reminded me of when it’s God’s turn to speak in the Book of Job. Isaiah is recording God’s defense. He lays it all out, how Israel and other nations worship worthless idols, their unfaithfulness. He also explains that He loves them and is merciful to them, despite the coming calamity of exile, and how He alone is God and Savior.

God’s heart and passion for His people really stood out to me yesterday. He warned them over and over and literally did everything to save Israel (and us) but even then, we all turned our backs on Him.

How heartbreaking!

Free Landscape Countryside photo and picture

When I think of God’s anger in the Bible, I often think, “Oh sure, He’s justified to punish them. They deserve it!” But, when I think of how sad it must’ve been for God, well, it just makes me love Him more and want to do what is right and pleasing to Him.

Even so, He helps me! Try as I might, I can never be perfect or do everything right one hundred percent of the time! I am so relieved Jesus did for me what I could never do.

God created us and the world we live in, then He saved us when we messed it all up. He made it right at His own costs (His own Son!) and wants to reward us with blessings. For example, we can join Him in His work on Earth and then join Him in Heaven for eternal life. Thank You, Jesus!

There are many ways we can connect with God and hear His heart. Reading His word and talking with Him in prayer are great ways to start!

Another angle to consider is disconnecting from the noise of social media, television, podcasts, and other distractions so we can hear God’s still, small voice, perceive His heart, and make sense of His kindness to us.

In John 10:27, Jesus said, “My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.” We know it is God when we hear Truth (or a gentle challenge), grace, love, mercy, forgiveness, peace, joy, comfort…  these are the Heartbeat of Heaven!

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Heavenly Father, thanks for Jesus! Thanks for all Your love and grace. Help us to quiet ourselves so we can hear You and sense how You are moving in our lives. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: What will you change today so you can hear God’s heart?

Tasks: Set some time aside today (and/or perhaps a block of time later this week) to talk with God and listen. Read Scripture, sing a worship song, and write down what you sense Him saying. Soak up His love and be refreshed with His grace.

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

Work Smarter, Not Harder

You have likely heard the phrase, “work smarter, not harder.” And depending on the context, we would probably all agree that’s good advice. Our time, effort, and energy are vital resources!

Sometimes I ask my neighbors for help when it comes to home maintenance. I am grateful for their skills and willingness. However, many run their own businesses and are just as busy as I am (if not more). Therefore, coordinating our schedules can take awhile.

Therefore, I often try to fix things myself or have to read about the issues online. I sometimes say I know a little about a lot. (My brain is a trove of random trivia!!) I generally don’t know enough to solve all the problems, but enough to get by or at least get the gist. It’s also a good thing I know when I am in over my head.

Free Door Toilet Door photo and picture

So, on Sunday, I was reading about front door locks. Mine has not been reliable lately; the deadbolt is still secure, but I needed to change the lower doorknob as soon as possible. It would lock but then not open again. Not a huge problem, except that we use the door just about every day.

The more I read, the more I realized I was out of my league. I did learn some new vocabulary, though! I also learned there are at least three basic options for deadbolts, not to mention the door knobs or levers, colors, brands, security pros and cons.

Within a few minutes, I decided to call in a professional.

On Monday, I took half a day off work, just because. I had no real plans but wanted to use a time-off award before it expired. It was a beautiful day to run some errands. In addition, I called a local locksmith, and he was able to come over right away. The problem I had been thinking about for three weeks was resolved within about twenty minutes!

I was happy to pay for the expert’s work because it saved me a lot of time and effort, not to mention the stress of trying to figure it out! I had him change the door knob and lock on the door that goes to the garage, too. That way, they match!

We who belong to Christ have a built-in expert in every area of life. The Holy Spirit is our guide and teacher. He shows us the path to take and which routes to avoid. By checking in with Him, we can save time, energy, and effort!

“When he opens doors, no one will be able to close them; when he closes doors, no one will be able to open them.” -Isaiah 22:22. This verse is about a faithful man named Eliakim, who was put in charge of the Jerusalem treasury, and you can compare it to what is said about the faithful church of Philadelphia in Revelation 3:8 above. Interesting parallels!

The two verses in Isaiah and Revelation encouraged me this week. They are God’s words about those who are godly, loyal, faithful, and effective in their ministries. I am inspired to keep moving forward!

I don’t know about you, I tend to work, work, work, but I can only accomplish so much when I am running on fumes! But, in John 10:9, Jesus said, “I am the door. If anyone enters by Me, he will be saved and will go in and out and find pasture.”

When we’re faithful, it blesses God. When we feel weak and tired, may we run to Jesus, our source of strength. He is the Door, and with Him, all things are possible! I am confident that His plan is better than mine and that He will help me work smarter, not harder! 

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God, thanks for being my source of strength and energy. When I don’t know what to do, help me run to You. Help me work smarter with Your wisdom, not run myself into the ground. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: How can you work smarter, not harder? How can you rely on Jesus today?

Task: Read these Bible verses about doors! 🙂

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Gratitude, Miscellaneous, Prayer

Finding Grace #370

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 Easter Lily Flower photo and picture

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

This was another good week, but it required a lot of prayers! Nonetheless, God really came through for me! One little highlight was watching little songbirds hopping around on the gigantic piles of snow in my backyard!

It seems like I talk about work almost every week, but as you know, I spend so much time there. I helped with a nursing fair and saw several patients. I also had some important conversations with my coworkers. We had some laughs and also brainstormed our way through some potential problems. It was a good feeling!

The weather was a little crazy this week. Lydia only went to her actual school on Monday; Tuesday through Thursday were remote learning due to the weather. Then, yesterday, she was off for Good Friday already. Thankfully, she handled it all like a champ!

Thankfully, the last couple of days have been above 40 and sunny, just in time to celebrate Easter! We enjoyed our church’s Good Friday service last night. We sat with some friends and worshiped the Lord. I’m grateful for the Cross!

My mother-in-law also came to visit, so she stayed with Lydia while I went to work today (I was on-call). Then, we went to lunch and went shopping! Tonight, we are enjoying a movie together. It was a really nice day after a wild week!

I pray you all have a blessed Easter weekend!

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

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

Posted on in Fear, 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, 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 Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Gratitude, Miscellaneous, Parenting

Finding Grace #361

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 Snow Mountains photo and picture

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

This week was a mix of ups and downs but it ended well! Lydia is still learning to navigate her health issues and spent Sunday trying to rest after a flareup of symptoms. Thankfully, after a few days, she was back to her usual self. It is sometimes trial and error, of course, and she’s only eleven. So, I don’t expect her to get it right every day.

On Monday, we learned more about the world of musical instruments. You can read more about that on Wednesday’s blog post. God was so gracious to answer my prayer!

Work went well overall, and we had some big discussions, with a mix of passion and laughter. It is good to work with people who challenge me to be my best! I am grateful for the work I get to do!

This afternoon, we went to see the Season 3 finale of The Chosen (two episodes) in the theater! All I can say is WOW. There was a big twist in the last few minutes… I would never have thought it was possible to see it on screen. Mindblowing in the best way… Jesus is amazing!

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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)!