Tag: no excuses

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Food and Nutrition, Miscellaneous, Parenting

Finding Grace #223

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!

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

This was a full and busy week! Work flew by and was jam-packed with things to do. I saw a few patients face-to-face and also led a journal club for the other dietitians. It was a lot of fun, and I was happy to share about plant-based diets. Eat your veggies!

This week, I had a lot of random tasks to complete. I didn’t have as much energy and didn’t get much rest. I’m glad I could lean on the Lord for strength!

Yesterday, Lydia and I went to hang out with some friends. I helped deliver Meals on Wheels, too. Then, Lydia stayed to play, while I came home to get some task done. Later, I mowed the lawn before we went to visit our neighbors.

Today, Lydia and I volunteered at our church. The goal was to provide a truckload of fresh fruits and vegetables to people in our community. It was fun, and we had a good conversation about volunteering and serving others!

We had a new baby born in the family this morning. I won’t share too many details here, since I haven’t asked permission, but we are very happy! Also, Lydia and I were both so honored that the baby’s middle name is David. 🙂

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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, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Wisdom, Words

Discussion, Not Division

Well, here we are about halfway through 2020. I don’t think any of us expected it to be like this! So many wildcards… though, I am grateful God can take everything bad and work it for good in His time and in His way. He is faithful!

Lately, I have seen a few posts about how we need to ‘get angry’ and if we don’t speak up, we are part of the problem. On the one hand, I agree. Much of what has happened this year is upsetting and should absolutely be discussed.

But, I don’t make great decisions when I am angry or emotional. “Human anger does not produce the righteousness God desires” (James 1:20). Besides, we don’t just need words, we need action. We have to make changes that will last.

Sadly, I have seen a number of my Christian friends flat-out argue with each other online about what needs to happen. Some of those are heavy topics, sure, but I hate seeing such division. I’m sure it breaks God’s heart, too.

It’s alright if we disagree! None of us is perfect is or has it all figured out. But we need to take better care of each other… be kind, be patient, listen. A house divided will never stand.

In many ways, it seems we are playing right into our Enemy’s hand, stirring up strife and hatred. Yet, Jesus said the world will know us by our love, not by our arguing.

Ironically, I have also seen several people tell others exactly how they should think or feel, march or protest, vote or use their voice. They have strongly stated it is unChristian or unAmerican to do this or that. This assumes the person agrees and shares their perspective.

This happened to me recently. I was rebuked online for pointing out facts in a news article that was clearly biased. The person said they “just did a quick Google search” to learn about the topic but then posted the article anyway. The topic had nothing to do with this person or where they live, and there is much more to the story than the one article suggested. I gently suggested looking at all the sides before making conclusions, but I received an eyeroll emoji and a strong rebuke.

I’ve come to the conclusion that this is one reason why people stay silent and don’t speak up in public. Yes, that needs to change to some degree. But, it seems we are damned if we do and damned if we don’t!

There are a variety of ways to tackle injustice or use your influence for good. Based on your personality and life experiences, perhaps you are comfortable leading the charge and voicing your opinions. You might have a quick ‘reaction time’ while others have a much slower fuse. That’s great! Just give others time to catch up.

Or, perhaps you prefer to have face-to-face conversations over coffee, volunteer locally, or write to Congress. If you like to work behind the scenes, thank you! We may never see the contribution you are making. I challenge you to speak up in your own way, and don’t let anyone tell you it’s not good enough!

Either way, there are many ways to serve, and each person can make a difference.

It’s okay if you don’t know how to think or feel on a topic. But do your own research.

Consider all angles before making decisions. It is wise to have as many details, pros/cons, and facts as possible. Don’t ask advice from random people on the internet, but do ask people who have experienced what you need to know.

The method may vary depending on the topic. Read your Bible and pray. Research key points through trusted resources, and/or study the science behind whatever you are thinking about. Have a good understanding of the issues at hand. Challenge your own opinions with facts!

Unfortunately, the public tendency to second-guess experts combined with the noise of social media doesn’t help. We can’t rely on easy answers for complex topics.

I have seen differences arise when one person is holding fast to principle while the other person is touting a different perspective. It is quite possible both people are right… Still, we can be compassionate as we seek to learn from each other. Discuss, but don’t divide!

For me, the bottom line is this: We represent Jesus to a world in desperate need of healing. Don’t stand in the way of anyone coming to Him!

Don’t let your behavior (online or in person) prevent anyone from meeting the One who died for them, the One who makes all things right. Find common ground. Use your gifts, talents, and platform wisely. Be an example, don’t turn people off!

Thankfully, in any situation, there is a right way that honors God. Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and Life (see John 14:6). Therefore, our goal as Christians is to always find the best path forward (the one that pleases God) knowing He will help us!

This includes a path of humility and open-mindedness. We may have to admit we were wrong, but growth means change is coming! Therefore, let’s embrace the discomfort knowing God is with us and for us.

The path forward ALWAYS promotes peace, justice, love, grace, and mercy.

Anything worth doing is worth doing well. Each of us has different goals and plans, but we can support one another and move forward together.

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Heavenly Father, thanks for holding us all together. You are sovereign, and we praise You! Please help us use our words to build each other up and not tear each other down. May we stand firm in what You have called each of us to do. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: As you speak with other people, are you letting your emotions get ahead of you? After you leave, are you still telling yourself you are in the right? Or are you able to let it go and praise God?

Tasks: Meditate on these verses: James 1:20; Ephesians 4:29; and Romans 14:1. Consider what you post on social media. Is it to gently inform or encourage? Is it truthful and helpful? Have you fact-checked your sources?

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

Speaking Up for Injustice

Disclaimer: While the scope of my blog is not political, it is a place where I can gather some of my thoughts on current events. Keep in mind I am a work in progress… thank you!

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Being rather nonconfrontational by nature, I often prefer to avoid difficult conversations. Even now, I generally don’t comment on controversial posts online because I don’t want to deal with the negativity or keep up with all the comments. Who has time for that?! Besides, arguing with people remotely never helps change anyone’s mind.

Yet, over the years, I have learned that sometimes it is better to deal with conflict head-on. At any rate, I don’t want someone to mistake my silence on important issues as indifference. Because, unfortunately, they look very similar… God forgive me.

With a blog called “Grace and Lemonade,” my goal is to glorify God for what He is doing, especially when life is difficult. Often, I wrestle with various issues and consider how to move forward in faith, not fear. My other goal is to bring encouragement and challenge my readers to see God’s grace in their lives. In turn, we can all share these gifts with others.

After all, grace means favor. The essence of grace and refreshing lemonade is meant to bless others, too. It is an overflow of God’s goodness!

Yesterday, Lydia and I were in the car listening to the radio when something was said about staying positive. But, in light of current events, I turned it off to make a point.

I said, “You know, Lydia, it is really good to be positive and focus on what is going well. I think we do that every day. But sometimes…”

“We might ignore talking about what is important,” Lydia said.

I’ve never been so glad she interrupted me! I was a little surprised at her understanding, but it meant that we were on the same wavelength.

I confirmed her thought process. “Yes! If we’re not careful, we might bypass difficult topics because they are unpleasant. But, in that case, nothing changes.” We soon applied this to the topic of racism and the need to change the status quo.

In terms of racism, America is ~400 years behind. It is a complex issue we inherited, and we have been averse to dealing with it as a nation. Now is the time.

 Racism is subtle and will take some unlearning. Quite often, we (or at least me, as a white person) don’t even recognize it! We have to accept responsibility and speak up for injustice. We cannot give up when it becomes uncomfortable or inconvenient.

When I read/watch/hear about George Floyd’s death (and Ahmaud Arbery’s and so many before that), I also think of my cousins, friends, neighbors, and patients who deal with prejudice every day. I cannot fully understand how racial discrimination feels, but I can empathize and speak up when I see it.

I also think about how all this injustice breaks God’s heart. Each of us is made in His image, and each of us invaluable. BELOVED. Furthermore, no one should feel unsafe while jogging or walking their dog or grocery shopping.

Tackling racism can look different depending on the situation, but it is necessary no matter what. On the one hand, I have been working toward this with Lydia since she was little. I have a wonderful multicultural family, and we seek out opportunities to meet people, not like us. We have had age-appropriate conversations and read several children’s books my aunt gave me a few years ago. That’s a great start, but it’s not enough.

So, Lydia and I have been talking more deeply about these issues lately. Her ‘anti-racist’ education starts with me! I have shown her certain news clips showing injustice and what is wrong, systemically. We have talked about white privilege, what that means, and how we can use it to speak up and serve others. This YouTube clip was particularly helpful.

As we went to the grocery store recently, we discussed how masks are somewhat uncomfortable but essential to help with coronavirus. I added how our black family, friends, and neighbors may feel unsafe wearing them and how unfair that is. On our way to work and daycare, I mentioned how, when we get ready for the day, we may think about our outfits or activities, but we never think about getting killed.

These conversations are ongoing, and I appreciate all who have shared resources. Change begins at home, but can’t stop there. It doesn’t have to be complicated, but I am finding teachable moments to plant seeds and will keep watering them over time. I also plan to discuss this further with my friends and extended family. We can’t stay silent.

When it’s all said and done, only Jesus can fully understand the issues and heal our nation. But I can educate myself and my daughter, speak up when I see injustice, and show compassion. I have to give Jesus something to work with!

Bottom line: Don’t do nothing. Speak up. Be an advocate. Educate yourself on racism. Learn about other cultures. Have difficult conversations. Volunteer with an organization. Vote. Love your neighbor. Put a real face with the issues. Don’t spread disunity or hatred. Don’t make excuses or quit when it is uncomfortable.

What holds one of us back holds all of us back.

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God forgive me for the times I have taken this life and the gifts You have given me for granted. Forgive me for when I haven’t spoken up for the things that break Your heart. Teach me Your ways, and help me love others like You do. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: What are you doing to become ‘anti-racist’? How can I help? (This is a newer term to me, so I am still working through it myself!)

Tasks: First, bring all your thoughts and feelings to Jesus. Let Him bring wisdom, understanding, compassion, and if needed, correction. Then, check out these books on anti-racism, which are helpful in understanding the issues at hand. Finally, start reaching out, speaking up, and talking with others. Use your voice for good!

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

A Life Well-Lived

Christian evangelist and apologist, Ravi Zacharias, stepped into eternity yesterday morning after a brief battle with sarcoma. His death has been reported by several news organizations as tributes continue to pour in. He is already missed by people all around the world.

I have followed Ravi Zacharias International Ministries (RZIM) for a few years, at least. I am saddened for our collective loss. At the same time, I rejoice that he is pain-free and in the presence of Jesus.

Ravi Zacharias was well-known for his quick wit, intellect, and for teaching us to use our God-given brains. Imagine that! Although, he has been compared to C.S. Lewis and a few others, he is unparalleled in his own right.

When dealing with challenging topics, Ravi Zacharias could hold his own and keep his cool. He was well-respected by people from many cultures and religions. He was invited to speak to Muslims, Hindus, Buddhists, and Mormons, among others.

I appreciate how he always pointed people back to Jesus. He never forced the issues at hand, but sought to build bridges. In defending the Christian faith, it wasn’t about making demands or being right. He knew he was right, however!

Instead, Ravi Zacharias confidently sought to glorify God and show grace to his opponents. In addition to his passion for logical debate, he was known for being kind and gracious. He always had a smile and was a gentleman! What a testimony!

Especially today, we can continue to learn and benefit from his example. Faith and logic can coincide together. We don’t have to choose, and we don’t have to argue. We don’t have to let differences or disagreements separate us or distract us from what is most important. We can spread God’s love and leave the outcomes with Him.

Ravi Zacharias made the case that for a religion to be real, it needs to stand the test of not only logic but live-ability. He concluded that only Christianity meets those empirical and practical requirements. And then, he proved it in his own life.

We, too, can live out our faith by combining sound principles and lovingkindness. God is on our side, so we don’t need to give in to conspiracy theories or fear. We don’t need to strong-arm someone who doesn’t eye-to-eye with us. We also don’t have to defend God! He will set the record straight. We just need to have courage and obey.

There will never be another Ravi Zacharias. Indeed, it is incredible to see what God can do through us when we honor Him with a life well-lived.

Thankfully, he had the foresight to develop a team of people to follow after him. It will be interesting to see how they carry on his legacy at RZIM.

I pray for his family and close friends to have peace and comfort in the coming days. Even in the sadness, I am excited to see what God will do next. The best is yet to come!

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Heavenly Father, thanks for Your wisdom and grace. Thanks for giving us power, love, and a sound mind (2 Tim. 1:7). Thanks for loving us so much and for revealing Yourself to us.

Questions: Have you read any Ravi Zacharias books or heard him speak? Which book is your favorite? How have you been impacted by his testimony?

Tasks: It is common to question God in times of loss. But, we don’t have to be angry or upset for long. God knows what He is doing in all situations. He does not cause sickness and death, but He will use them for His glory and our good. If you are facing painful circumstances, draw near to God. He is close to the brokenhearted. He longs to help you.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Posted on in Fear/Don't Fake Brave, Journey of Grace, Miscellaneous, Parenting, Perseverance

See A Victory

“The weapon may be formed, but it won’t prosper
When the darkness falls, it won’t prevail
‘Cause the God I serve knows only how to triumph
My God will never fail
Oh, my God will never fail

I’m gonna see a victory
I’m gonna see a victory
For the battle belongs to You, Lord”

–From “See A Victory” by Elevation Worship

This coming Friday marks seven years since Dave died. It doesn’t seem like it should already be that long, but here we are. I am so grateful for God’s faithfulness.

Lydia continues to process what Dave’s absence means for her. It is an on going development as she learns and grows. We’ve had many in-depth conversations in the last six months, in particular. Thanks for your continued prayers.

It is still bittersweet at times, but I am amazed when I think about how far God has brought us. We have certainly had our battles, but each time, God has come through for us.

Just think: God has never lost a battle. He always claims Victory!

I don’t know what life would be like if Dave were still here. He could still be sick or totally healed. But truthfully, it does me no good to think about all the ‘what ifs,’ and I don’t have time or mental space for that rabbit trail.

What I do know is this: I have seen major Victories in my life that I probably would not have noticed or achieved any other way. For instance, I started this blog and put myself ‘out there.’ I wrote a book (details soon!!!) and started a business. I have continued learning various skills and am teaching others. In the fall, I started an awesome job serving Veterans. I have grown through parenting Lydia. That’s the short list! 

If things had turned out differently, perhaps I would not have been compelled to cling to the Lord in the way I have. And, I would have continued second-guessing myself and my ability. Not anymore!

Becoming who I am now has taken time, effort, and a lot of intention. But, I am not the same person. I am stronger and more stable. I make quicker and more solid decisions, without fearing the outcomes like I used to. That doesn’t mean I don’t make mistakes, just that I am more confident when I say YES and when I say NO.

Victory, for me, is choosing faith as my default, not fear.  This big Victory has lead to many smaller Victories along the way. They just keep coming!

As a result, I have much more peace internally. I don’t feel the need to prove myself or do things perfectly. I have stopped putting limits on what I can do! I am happy to be just me, knowing with Jesus, that is enough.

I have also made various lifestyle changes in recent years. I still am involved with several activities, but they are choices I make on purpose. I want to, not I ‘have’ to.

I have taken on more challenges and cool projects as my capacity has grown. We don’t think about grief every day, thankfully, so we are able to handle other things. Plus, Lydia has been able to care for many of her own needs. I still supervise and help, of course.

Lydia and I enjoy doing a lot of fun things these days. When she was little, it felt more like survival mode. She need a lot of care and I was grieving. But now, we are thriving.

For Mother’s Day, on Sunday, Lydia gave me a little book that she filled out all on her own. (Thanks to my mom for buying it and sending it to her!) A common theme was that I have taught Lydia to be brave and not give up. Amen!

Ironically, I could never show Lydia bravery or perseverance if I hadn’t had to face my worst fears. And, I couldn’t do that without Jesus. He taught me what it means to be brave, and now I have the honor of passing those lessons on.

These days, we play games, go on adventures, make food and art together, and laugh a whole lot. On Friday, we will do something fun to celebrate Dave’s life and memory. We may eat his favorite foods, play a game, or go on a walk.

I will also give Lydia a special gift in Dave’s honor. He would be so very proud of her.

Loving Jesus, and living a fun, adventurous faith-filled life… a wholehearted Victory!

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Heavenly Father, all praise and honor to YOU!! Thanks for all the Victories in my life (including many more I haven’t mentioned here!). Help me continue to trust You for greater things! In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: What Victories have you seen in your life this year? What would you do if you had unlimited resources and there was no way you could fail?

Tasks: Listen to “See A Victory” by Elevation Worship. Trust God and make bold moves today. We cannot lose with Jesus on our side! He has never lost a battle! Victory is His!

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

You’re Gonna Get Wet

We’ve had some rainy weather this week, which is certainly not unusual for spring. Can you say, “green grass?!” Thankfully, the rest of the week is supposed to be mostly sunny. The sun did come out today, proving rainy days don’t last forever!

Nonetheless, yesterday, it was sprinkling all morning. I needed to mail a little package, but I also needed to drop off Lydia at daycare (nowhere near a post office).

I usually try to fit quick errands in either before work or after, depending on the timing. Often, I plan ahead, but yesterday, I only had a few minutes to spare.

I didn’t want to be late for work, so I looked at the forecast and my weather radar app. As I tried to decide if mailing my package could wait until later, a thought occurred to me. 

“Either way, you’re gonna get wet.”

The forecast was cloudy and rainy all day. So my choice was really between if I should go when it was sprinkling or wait, hoping it would not be downpouring later.

The odds were not in my favor.

In the end, I decided I was cutting it too close and waited until after work to run to the grocery store, which conveniently has a little post office, too. 

Thankfully, the weather was still only sprinkling! It worked out well, and I was able to pick up a few other groceries before getting Lydia at daycare.

In life, we face many storms (real and metaphorical). It is inevitable that at some point, we’re gonna get wet. Many storms pop up out of nowhere. 

Yet, sometimes storms are related to consequences for poor choices. Sometimes we can look ahead and see what’s coming. In those instances, we may be able to avoid the storm altogether. But not always.

Although it is nice to stay warm, dry, and well, comfortable, it is not possible to always avoid storms. However, we can still be prepared.

We can review the forecast and radar. We can keep an umbrella in our car. We can stock up on a few key supplies (like water and flashlights, not toilet paper!). We can use wisdom.

We can also pray ahead of time, asking God for help. He alone knows what is coming and will lead us in our preparations. But, we have to be willing to make adjustments accordingly. He will never lead us astray!

Often, our attitude will determine how we come through the storm. Yes, we can make up our minds ahead of time–set our attitude–for how we will handle getting wet.

It is unrealistic to think we will never have to deal with life’s storms. We are going to get wet, so we might as well make the best of it! Let’s splash in the puddles!

We can hopefully prevent some of the pain storms bring, but it is even wiser to check our attitude and trust God. Jesus said we would have troubles. But, He is faithful.

Jesus is both above the chaos and with us in it. He can bring peace and help in any storm.

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Heavenly Father, thanks for bringing the rain and using it to provide new life. Help us make wise decisions and have a good attitude. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Do you like thunderstorms? Do you have an emergency kit on hand?

Tasks: Read about when Jesus calmed a storm in Mark 4:35-41!

 

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Miscellaneous, Parenting

Finding Grace #217

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!

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

This was an awesome week! We kicked off the week with a fun family video chat on Sunday evening. We always have a great time and laugh a lot! It took a little coordination since my brother and his wife recently moved to Phoenix, AZ, so now we are in at least three time zones! We hope to do it again soon!

Lydia and I tried to get outside each day this week! We visited with neighbors, did some yardwork, and played some games. I noticed baby leaves on my trees, and Lydia took a picture of some tree swallows. We even went to check out the river one afternoon!

I am really grateful for God’s leading and guiding in my life! The last few weeks, I have been considering various options and decisions. I have prayed, researched, and asked questions. This week, I took some steps forward. I’m excited for what God has for me next!

Yesterday, I called a dear family friend and talked with her for 2+ hours. We hadn’t had the chance to connect for quite some time, so it was wonderful to catch up and learn all about what her family is doing. I loved hearing about God’s faithfulness!

Today, I practiced my kitchen knife skills for our online cooking class. I already feel like that was worth the cost of the class. Somewhere along the way, I realized that working on dicing, chopping, etc., will only make me more efficient and create more sustainable habits. I am a good cook, and this will take me to the next level!

This afternoon, a friend came over to visit. We hadn’t seen them for awhile, so it was great to catch up. We chatted for awhile and ended up playing some games. It was also fun to see Lydia’s competitive side come out!

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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, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Parenting, Perseverance, Wisdom, Worship

On Beating Boredom

We all know what it feels like to be bored (or in a pandemic, cooped up with nowhere to go). I have previously listed many wonderful options, such as virtual tours of famous cities, zoos, and museums, so will take a different angle today!

During this time, I have not been very bored. But, unlike many people, I have not been ‘stuck’ at home for the last month-and-half. I am thankful I’ve had the opportunity to work!

At home, Lydia and I often talk about being content and making the best of each situation. We probably talk about gratitude just as much as we talk about healthy grieving!

I am so happy Lydia is not a routine complainer. That all makes the difference! 🙂

Yet, in my tenure as a parent, I have periodically heard her say, “Mom, I’m bored. I have nothing to do.” Sure, as an only child, Lydia has no built-in playmates. But she still has loads of art supplies and a fair amount of books and toys.

Awhile back, I read an article (somewhere) about how boredom can lead to creativity. So, I am not worried about Lydia being bored, per se. Instead, I encourage her to do something creative… or I give her a chore to do!

The more she starts to whine, the more I lean toward chores…

Naturally, in terms of personal application, this makes me wonder…

How often do we tell God we are bored or stall in disobedience? How often does our attitude affect how we see what is going on in our lives? How often do we overlook the good and complain about what we still don’t see?

When life is stable, isn’t that a good thing? Still, there have been times, in my life at least (ahem), when I have been tempted to complain. “God, when will my circumstances change? I’m so bored doing the same old thing. Hurry up and do something new!”

But, when we simply change our attitude, it’s amazing how quickly our perspective can change! How about this instead: “God, here I am. I am available. Let me know what You would like me to do. Help me be content.”

Then, suddenly, our eyes are open to what God is doing around us! We start looking for opportunities to serve others and find joy in meeting their needs. Having an outward focus and blessing others is what makes life exciting again!

Reminder: This life is not about me, it’s about loving God and loving others.

Ironically, at other times, we can grow so comfortable in our own little bubble, that we don’t appreciate or enjoy when God shakes things up or challenges our security.

How fickle we can be! I’m sure grateful for God’s mercy, grace, and patience!

Lydia and I were recently discussing the concept of ‘beating boredom.’ We decided instead of saying, “I’m bored, I have nothing to do,” we should say, “Well, I have a lot of time right now.  Is there someone who needs help? What can I do?”

Just that little switch helps us recognize the gift of time, which is from God. May we use our time wisely and not waste it with grumbling and complaining!

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God, thanks for the gift of TIME. Thanks for giving us so many resources and creativity. Help us use all of our gifts and talents to bless others and bring You glory. Make us aware when we start to complain or take it all for granted. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: How are you doing this week? Are you bored or do you have plenty to do? Either way, how can you bless someone else?

Task: Next time you are bored, consider how best to use your time. Sure, you can learn a new skill or clean out a closet, but perhaps you can find a way to help someone else!

 

 

 

Posted on in Fear/Don't Fake Brave, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Prayer, Wisdom

On Compromise

Hello! How are you holding up this week?!

So far, Lydia and I are doing well. We had a peaceful holiday weekend and then hit the ground running on Monday. Suddenly, I had about fourteen emails, calls, texts, and social media requests to attend to (after work, homework, an online meeting, a hangry meltdown, dinner, and an impromptu phone call).

Every day can be so different. A global pandemic doesn’t help! Whether you are staying home every day, or are able to still go to work, we each have complex circumstances.

Let’s extend each other an extra measure of grace.

In many ways, I have had to let go of what other people think and attend to what’s in front of me. Some things are more relaxed, but as always, I still have a lot to do. So do you! 🙂

Of course, anything worth having or doing takes intention. I look forward to warmer weather and hopefully, the ability to reconnect with people in person. Until then, I have been keeping in touch via texts, calls, and video chats. I’m grateful for technology!

And, I know it is important to pick my battles. Crisis or not.

One key to coping well is learning to adapt. For example, I’ve had to change my route to work about four times in the last six weeks. I have reframed my (now longer) morning drive, and I am choosing to view it as taking the scenic route.

Another key to successful coping is compromise. That may include setting aside certain projects or tasks in order to focus on your family’s needs. Compromise may mean preserving your sanity by taking a break from social media or even the news. It may include setting boundaries in relationships or taking time to regroup. Or, maybe it’s serving others and going all in. There is give and take, and that looks different for each of us.

One important note, however: We cannot compromise regarding what God is calling us to do. We cannot compromise our values or integrity. We cannot compromise faith or obedience. We cannot give up holy ground.

I am NOT talking about our rights as citizens or church-goers. We absolutely need to follow the law and health recommendations. This is not the time to push an agenda.

During this time, we all should lay down our own goals, plans, and desires for the good of all. Stay home. Wash your hands. Wear a mask. Keep social distance. Yes.

What I am talking about how it is easy to let important matters slide under stress. It is easy to give up or make excuses when times get rough. I have heard of many people making decisions lately, without thinking about the long-term consequences.

People have been cutting their bangs, taking money from retirement accounts, turning to bad habits, and accepting less than they deserve. The long-term impacts could be financial, relational, or yet unseen.

I don’t know all these people personally, or the various factors and circumstances they are facing. I am merely using these points as examples. But I do know that God understands each person’s situation. He cares deeply and is ready to help!

Sure, desperate times call for desperate measures. Maybe you are totally confident cutting your bangs. Or, maybe you have a specific plan for using your retirement money. Awesome!

But, let’s not forget Who is fighting for us. We do not HAVE to be afraid or make fear-based choices. Trust Jesus!

We are not left on our own to fend for ourselves. God is on our side. He is for us and promises to provide for us! When we bring him our weaknesses, He will give us His strength.

In times of distress or despair, pause and consider what is at stake. We cannot afford to just get by! Instead, we need to stand firm and seek God’s input.

We can’t see the future, yet He knows the end from the beginning. He’s already there!

We can trust God fully. Crisis or not, He never compromises. He does lead us with mercy and grace. And if we let Him, He will get us where we need to be. No doubt.

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Father God, thanks for Your peace and provision. Thanks that we don’t have to live in fear. You are so good to us. Help us trust You with our decisions, our finances, our health, and our relationships. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Do you find it easy or challenging to trust God? Is there one area that is more difficult than another?

Tasks: Bring all your concerns to Jesus. Before making a big decision, check-in with Him first. He may give you the green light to go ahead, or He may surprise you with a different (better) answer. He loves to bless us!

Posted on in Fear/Don't Fake Brave, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Prayer, Wisdom

Giving God Credit

During times of uncertainty and stress, it is easy to doubt and question God.

How could God let this happen? Does He still love me? Where is He in all of this?

For many people, spiritual doubts and discouragement can cause them to turn away from God. They feel guilty for testing their assumptions, as in, if they had more faith, they would not be doubting. Or, perhaps people on the fence feel they are better off doing life without God. Maybe their doubts make them feel He let them down.

But tests are meant to get us to the next level, not stop us from growing.

I have learned doubt is okay (and healthy) as long as we keep bringing our questions to the Lord. Don’t give up or walk away! He is not put off by our uncertainty.

God desires fellowship with us and wants us to come with all of our questions. In fact, when we ask the Lord to walk with us and show us His truth, we actually grow in faith!

God has firmly promised never to leave us nor forsake us, but fear likes to mess with our faith. However, we can take an active stance against fear by choosing faith. It’s not always easy, but one thing I have found helpful is to give God credit for what He is doing.

When we intentionally give God credit for all He is doing for us and through us, our perspective changes and life starts to look a little more joy-filled and peaceful.

One way to give God credit is to be grateful. Instead of complaining about our lives or what is unfair, we can make the daily choice to move forward with grace and love. Instead of holding onto resentment when things don’t go our way, we can thank God for how He is moving on our behalf. 

We can thank Him for being with us, and we can thank Him that our circumstances are not worse than they are. Yes, on many levels I understand how desperate times can be! But, even so, when we look back, we can see God’s grace bearing the brunt of our suffering and holding back the full effect of the evil thrown against us.

When we call out the goodness in our lives, we see how gracious God is!

Galatians 5:22-23 says, “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.”

So anytime we see these qualities in ourselves or others, we can acknowledge God is in our midst. We can give Him credit for all the love, joy, and peace around us. We can praise Him for any acts of patience, kindness, and goodness we see. We can let Him flow through us by being faithful and gentle, and using self-control.

If we don’t see these qualities directly, we can ask the Holy Spirit to develop them within us and open our eyes to see what He is doing. Soon, we “see” God all around us and feel His presence and love! Our faith in Him and His ability grows!

Most recently, I have noticed Lydia’s resiliency through her incredible belly laugh. She has a great sense of humor, but lately, I have seen joy move all throughout her body. She throws her head back in laughter and then it cascades all the way down to her toes.

The extra time together has brought us closer through games, cooking, and other activities. It’s also evidence that she is growing up. But, if we weren’t in this quarantine situation, I may have totally missed these little signs and moments.

It is fun to see what Lydia finds funny. Jokes, puns, games, cute animals, you name it. And when she finds something joyful or good, it prompts me to see it, too!

We talk about being thankful for the beauty of Nature, good food, our home, technology, friends, and family. We praise God every day for keeping us safe and healthy.

I am also thankful for my job and daycare. God is Jehovah Jireh, and His provision is undeniable. If it is difficult to see His provision in your life, ask Him to show you how He is taking care of you. Then, expect good things!

Ironically, you don’t have to agree with someone or something in order to find goodness or celebrate it. Lately, it’s hard not to find amazing stories of compassion and generosity! Everywhere I look there is good news of people helping each other despite their own hardships and pain.

Even people who don’t know God directly still recognize godly qualities and values. The fact that they do good things shows me He is reaching out to them. God is the source of all love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, and goodness. So, even if they don’t realize it, He is present and working in their lives. His utmost desire is to have ALL people turn to Him.

What a gracious God!

Every day, His goodness and mercy chase us down to bless us. Let’s call out GOOD when we see it. Let’s point people to Jesus by giving Him all the credit. All glory to Him!

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Heavenly Father, thanks for Your goodness and mercy. Open our eyes to the work You are doing in and us and around us. Help us see Your grace and walk in it. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Where do you see God’s goodness in your life? How can you walk in His grace and bless others today?

Tasks: Listen to the song, “Good to Me,” by Rhett Walker. Make a list of all the ways God has been good to you, both in the past and presently!