Tag: patience

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

No Surprises

Ahh, another Election Day is done, and a new day is ahead. I don’t love politics or watch much news firsthand, but I always enjoy watching the back-and-forth to see who wins. As the states turn blue or red, it’s as if I can see God moving across the country based on our participation!

Sometimes, I have to laugh at the media’s hype and catastrophizing. “Too early to call. This is surprising. What will happen if?” People may feel uncertain, confused, or even sick about the state of things. I get it. But, while the stakes are high, we go through this every four years! 😉

I usually like to stay up and see the results, if possible. But, last night, I prioritized sleep, resting in the fact that God is in control. He understands the complexities and is not phased by them. I voted last week, and He will use all things for my good and His glory.

Ultimately, God doesn’t lose sleep over politics. He is not anxious or dependent on the results. There are no accidents, coincidences, or surprises that fall outside of His jurisdiction. He reigns over all, always has, always will!

Free ballot ballot box american flag illustration

The Bible says that God places people in their positions or removes them. He can make a donkey speak and morph people into humility. Nothing is impossible for Him!

As Paul wrote in Ephesians 6:12, “… our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.”

There is so much more going on that we can fully fathom. Yet, we are overcomers because Jesus has already conquered Evil, Sin, and Death.

Regardless of how you feel today—exhausted, upset, happy, or relieved—take heart. We Christians are God’s ambassadors, His representatives. Our peace, joy, and hope are not in any mere man or woman. Our security and eternity is in Jesus.

In Revelation, we read that things will be wild in the last days. Some would say the world is growing darker, but we do not need to fear because we have Jesus, the Light. Nothing can thwart God’s plan or purpose.

Jesus will soon return, and The End grows nearer every day. So buckle up. May we be found faithful and ready for the King of Kings and our Prince of Peace! Come quickly, Lord Jesus!

Even so, we have a great responsibility to be wise, vote, and then pray for those in power. We can also step up and help our community to make a local difference. Whatever you do, don’t wait four years to show His love and grace.

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God, You reign over all… including politics, statistics, and legalities. Your purposes stand. Thanks for covering us with mercy and grace. May we understand what You are doing and join You in Your work. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Question: Do you enjoy watching the Election Night news, or do you prefer tuning out?

Tasks: Listen to this song and pray for the leaders of our nation. Even if you don’t like them or agree with them. Remember how much grace God has given you, and extend that to others.

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Gratitude, Miscellaneous

Finding Grace #452

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 Path Trees photo and picture

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

This was a really good week!

On Wednesday, Lydia was not feeling the best and decided to stay home in the evening from youth group. She texted me early, so I had some extra time to vote early ahead of next week. I went to the county courthouse since I was close by and got in and out right away!

Halloween was on Thursday. My coworkers and I dressed up as dalmations and one of them was Cruella Deville. It was pretty funny! Later in the evening, I passed out candy while Lydia went trick-or-treating with a friend! I always enjoy seeing neighbors and their little ones.

This week, I am happy to report that I qualified for a standing desk at work! I am really grateful and hope it will improve my physical well-being and complement the mobility work I am doing at home. My goal is to spend at least half the day standing at work, but I might have to build up to it first and adjust to sitting for patient education sessions.

Lydia had a day off school on Friday, and we went shopping after work. I had to make some returns, and we looked for a few select items. It was a little rainy, but we were thankful it wasn’t snowing! 

Today, Lydia and I saw an early showing of The Best Christmas Pageant Ever. It’s officially in theaters next weekend, and we recommend it!

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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/Don't Fake Brave, Gratitude, Journey of Grace, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Perfectionism, Perseverance, Personality, Pivot, Wisdom

Goals Are Only a Guide

Yesterday, we had our annual goals meeting at work. We do this every year, focusing on national and departmental VA goals. The funny thing is, I never really have any goals that match my manager’s expectations. It’s almost a running joke at this point!

This level of goal setting is above and beyond our normal work duties, which are already immense! So, it’s good to challenge ourselves but it’s not the end of the world. I usually offer to help others with their goals, and that is good enough.

It’s not that I don’t have goals – I have lots! I love learning, but not all of my interests are transferrable at work or a good fit for my patients. For instance, I am interested in plant-based diets and would love to promote them more often. Yet, it’s not for everyone, especially a population that is often rural, mostly male, and meat-loving. These guys tend to rely on microwave meals or let their wives do all the cooking.

Also, focusing on my own mobility exercises has been key for me lately, but that’s a bit out of my current scope of practice. Even if I decide to train in this area (a fitness or pain certification to complement my foodie side), I may not be able to apply it as well as I would like. But it’s something I am considering!

Free goal target success illustration

For me, it’s a good sign I don’t want to set excessive goals. I want to do exactly what God is calling me to do. No more and no less. I don’t have to be perfect or overachieve. My top goals are to stay close to Jesus, listen to the Holy Spirit, and bring my Heavenly Father glory through serving and loving others. Everything else is just a bonus! 

God is good at showing me when I need to make a change, personally or professionally. He leads me and is patient with me until I get where I need to be. Therefore, if God Himself is not telling me anything different, I can be at peace. I don’t need to apologize or explain anything. I trust I am on track!

Goals are good, but they are only a guide. They don’t override God’s plan for me!

I always aim to go above and beyond to meet the needs of my patients, even when it is inconvenient. I don’t see that changing any time soon! But, God has given me a lot to do outside of work, too! As a single mom, I need to use my energy wisely.

Free Road Curve photo and picture

Prayerfully, my long-term work goals are fairly simple and have worked well so far!

  1. Eat a good breakfast since I don’t know when I will get to eat my lunch. I always manage to eat, but it’s not always predictable due to patient care.

  2. Show up. There are gonna be days I just don’t “feel” like going to work. Do it anyway. (As it is, I find I am always happier when I go and see people. I hate to miss something important!)

  3. Have a good attitude. Be a team player. Smile! I can encourage those around me, and not complain or drag them down.

  4. Have patience with my patients. Every day is different, and I work with a wide variety of personalities and problems. There are similarities, but there are still so many nuances. I have to bust myths and break through barriers daily!

  5. Do my best and minimize “late notes.” This is more of a behind-the-scenes billing thing, but I can only do my best!

I am beyond grateful for where God has me right now. This time, this space, this routine. My coworkers and family and responsibilities. I know things will change someday, but I am content going at His pace and walking in His peace.

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Heavenly Father, thanks for taking such good care of me. You are so gracious and kind to provide for me and lead me. Help me stay close to You so I can move when You do! In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Do you like setting goals? What goals are you working toward right now?

Task: When setting goals, pray first, then make them SMART! That stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-based.

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

Tuning Out and Tuning In

What do you think of when you hear or read the word “tune?” You may think of the melody in a piece of music, or an action, such as tuning a radio or tuning an instrument. This may include picking up a new frequency as you drive along or changing the channel to find something new. We can also take our vehicle in for a tune-up.

Just as we can tune in, we can tune out! For instance, we can tune out background noise when having a conversation. Or, sometimes, I am playing a game on my phone, and Lydia asks me a question. Not too often, but it does happen, and I have to ask her to repeat her request. We can also tune out of social media or television shows or sinful habits.

I read an article yesterday (not worth posting here) about how people are tuning out political advertising regarding the upcoming November elections. Each side is spending a lot of money to convince voters, and very few of us are paying attention! It seems people have already made up their minds and don’t care about the details now. Or, perhaps they are just tired of the incessant barrage of information! Maybe that’s just me?!

Politics are important, yes. It is our right, privilege, and duty to vote! But, regardless of who ends up winning, God is still in control. He will use anyone in office for His ultimate purposes. Whether they know Him or not. So, we don’t put our hope in a mere human, but in Jesus alone!

Free Violin Musical Instrument photo and picture

The closer we draw to Jesus, we start to see things as they really are. As we tune out of world’s noise, the less thrilling it becomes. At best, our bling becomes blah. At worst, well, I’m thinking total filth, dirty rags. The glamour and excitement fade away when we realize all Jesus has done for us. That’s not to say things aren’t still worthwhile; it’s just that they don’t hold power over us anymore.

Nothing and no one compares to Jesus! In Him, we can lay down our desires and expectations and look for greater things. All things become new!

There are many ways to draw close and tune our hearts to God. We can pray and seek Him as we go about our day. We can read the Bible and learn about Him. We can listen for His voice and do what He says, right away. Trust and obey!

We can tune in for a deeper understanding of who God is and what He has done for us. We can better grasp His forgiveness, which changes everything! We can drop all pretense that it all depends on us. We can eagerly await eternity with Jesus, yet live for Him today!

We can observe His work in our lives. He has good plans for our lives, and we just have to walk them out. With gratitude, we can find His grace and provision for all our needs!

Wherever you find yourself today, I encourage you to tune in to all God has for you! Perhaps sing a little melody to Him. He is so good!

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Heavenly Father, thanks for all You do for us! Help us turn away from worthless things, and help us tune in to You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Who or what are you tuning into this week? Where is your hope? Do you need a tune-up?

Task: Listen to this old hymn: “Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing.” 

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Gratitude, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Personality, Pivot

Finding Grace #447

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 Autumn Color Swedish Mountain Ash photo and picture

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

This week was good but required a little more patience than usual. All week, I was behind slow-moving traffic and experienced various roadblocks and ongoing construction. This has been going all summer, of course, but this week felt excessive. LOL I had a few tech issues with the internet and password issues. I had to wait for people to answer texts, emails, and phone calls, etc. I’m still working on my long to-do list, but I’m grateful for the Lord refining me and reminding me to slow down and go at His pace.

In August, I reached five years at the Fargo VA, and on Friday, I was given a VA mug and five-year pin! It was a cool surprise after a very full, but good, week serving my patients. It’s an honor to serve these Veterans in practical ways! I also love my coworkers. We have a wonderful team!

Yesterday, a friend and I met for lunch after work. We always have fun catching up! Then, Lydia and I went to Menards for some home items. I needed some new light switches to replace the ones in Lydia’s room. I did that when we came home and did a few other house chores, as well.

Today, we babysat for a coworker while she and her husband finished an outdoor project. I offered to help so they could complete it before the weather changes. We had fun with her three-year-old and one-year-old boys!

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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, Books and Movies I Like, Gratitude, Journey of Grace, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Pivot, Prayer, Wisdom, Worship

Healing Connections

Pain comes in many forms and is an excellent signal that we must pay attention and address an issue. It can be physical, mental, emotional, relational, or spiritual (sometimes all of the above). Each of us should determine the cause and solution and seek professional input if needed. Often, we can start with the basics on our own!

On Sunday after church, I went to the front of the sanctuary for prayer for my hip and back. Both muscles and nerves connect the two areas I am dealing with. I have been praying and practicing mobility exercises to improve my flexibility and relieve pressure.

The lady who prayed reminded me it’s all God’s power combined with my faith, not her words, that brings healing. Even today, I still feel a little pain, but it is improving!

Praying in faith is key, but we can also take practical action. On Monday, I decided to try a new three-week program for a healthy back. I appreciated the hip challenge I did recently, and the back version is equally intriguing and educational!

As we know, God can heal instantaneously, but often, it takes time. In my case, nerve impingement likely happened over many years of repetitive motion. So, it seems, I need to learn how to take better care of myself and let God heal me that way. Then, I can sustain the results!

Free Woman Exercise photo and picture

Instead of trying to diagnose myself, I am simply working on a total body approach. It’s all connected and if one area is feeling “off” chances are at least one other area is, too!

I have been learning a lot lately. Muscles, bones, and nerves are all related but show up in separate issues. Sure, I learned some of this in my college courses, but it has been a while, and it is good to have a refresher!

On Monday night, I started week five of my mobility routine. I have been doing the exercises four times a week, so this was round seventeen. I was praying, and suddenly, something just clicked!

After that, I was able to do all fifteen exercises fairly easily! I have been able to do most of them but struggled to do three or four because my hip wouldn’t go past a certain point without pain or catching.

I was in awe and yelled for Lydia to come and watch. Praise God! Even if it gets a little tight again, I know healing is close at hand! I woke up the next day still able to do the exercises, though I still need to practice.

Then, yesterday, I had a follow-up appointment with a certain Veteran. We previously connected over being authors. God used the act of writing to help me lead this patient to make changes.

We talked on the phone this time, and immediately, he wanted to discuss my book. He had read the entire thing and marked a few pages that he had questions about. He really wanted to talk about healing.

He asked about page 107 and asked me to verify what I wrote: that spiritual health is more important than physical healing. He was fascinated by this and mentioned that we often pray for temporary physical results but run the risk of overlooking eternal spiritual matters.

We briefly discussed how Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead, but eventually, even he had to die again. I also quoted 3 John 1:2, which hit home for him.

God is always faithful and willing to heal, one way or another. At the same time, He is gracious in teaching us about His power, love, and provision along the way. He can use pain or wellness to our benefit, though our wounds may accomplish more as we draw close to Him.

We did manage to discuss nutrition, of course, but it was so cool to see how my story was helping this man think about God’s healing in new ways!

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Father God, thanks for all the ways you heal us and make us whole. Help us seek You more than what You can do for us. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Question: What is God teaching you this week? How is He healing you or changing your perspective?

Task: Bring all your aches, wounds, grief, and expectations to Jesus. Praise Him through the pain. He will never let you down. Nothing is impossible for God!!

Posted on in Being Gracious, Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Gratitude, Miscellaneous, Pivot

Finding Grace #446

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 Foliage Branch photo and picture

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

This was a full and busy week, but I knew God was at work all around me.

On Monday, I went to the chiropractor. I was hoping that she could just “pop” my hip in place and fix the impinged nerve, but it will still require more mobility work. Either way, it is something that didn’t occur overnight, so it will take time to heal. I see it as preparing my body to shovel snow this winter without causing more issues!

On Wednesday, I worked a little more than half a day, then needed to leave for a some appointments. I left work later than intended due to patient care. But, we were still on time for Lydia’s ortho appointment. Because she is diligent to wear her equipment, she will likely finish six months sooner than expected! Woohoo!

The second appointment was a financial check-up over Zoom. It was good to review things and make a few changes. I am grateful for help with planning for the future. God is so good at providing for us. Thanks, Lord!

On Thursday, I drove with two coworkers to Grand Forks. We attended a nutrition training at the University of North Dakota (UND). It was fun to meet other dietitians. We learned some new things, but also were able to share some of our knowledge with them!

On Friday, I stayed later at work to help a patient and solve a problem for him. It was gratifying to answer his questions and provide excellent care! Next week, I will contact his medical team so they can make things right for this Veteran. I also had some input from two other coworkers, and I appreciate the teamwork!

Last night and today, I’ve been watching the virtual version of ChosenCon running this weekend in Orlando! I enjoy watching the portrayal of Jesus and His disciples in The Chosen, and it is fun to see the actors and all the memorabilia behind the scenes. We learned that the company will also produce other shows about Moses, Joseph, and the Book of Acts. They will even run a show with The Chosen actors going on adventures in the wild with Bear Grylls, as well as a children’s animated show. I can’t wait!

Otherwise, today we are mostly relaxing after a busy few weeks!

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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, Gratitude, Kindness, Miscellaneous, Personality, Wisdom

Influenced!

Today, I am thinking about the word “influencer,” which is a buzzword these days. There is a little nuance in that it can feel cheesy at best and like manipulation at worst.  People are vying for a chance to be noticed, liked, and make money. They chase the next cool thing, often selling things they don’t believe in or understand. But, there is a lot of in-between, too.

Galatians 1:10, says, “Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God? Or am I trying to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ.”

Others influence us in person and online every day. And, people are watching us, too, even when we don’t realize it. We cannot chase success or approval from others. But, we can humbly recognize that we also have great influence. Yes, we carry the Holy Spirit everywhere we go! He wants to be the most influential in our lives!

For starters, He has given us spiritual gifts and helps us bear spiritual fruit. Through the Holy Spirit, we also have the same power in us that raised Jesus from the dead (Ephesians 1:19-21)! We have the mind of Christ (1 Corinthians 2:15-16). Ultimately, He is the only one we live for. “In Him we live and move and have our being” (Acts 17:28).

We can make someone’s day by demonstrating grace and kindness. This may include organizing a meal train or sending an encouraging word. It doesn’t have to be a lot of effort. Sometimes, we are the ones who start it, and sometimes, we are the ones who finish it. Each role is important.

In the last couple of weeks, I have gotten to be an “influencer” in many worthwhile ways. I shared some health tips I have found helpful with my friends. No, I did not make any money doing so, in fact, I even spent a little money! 😉

At work, we encouraged a coworker going through a hard time. She’s taken on the role of a caregiver, and so we want to support her. I sent an email with some ideas, and everyone was on board. I collected donations and ran some errands, but it was a team effort.

Yesterday, I requested some help in remembering someone who is grieving. Think of a ‘love bomb’ type of thing! It will be fun to see how that turns out.

We don’t have to travel far or go out of our way to be influencers. As a parent, the person I influence the most sits at my dinner table! Lydia and I talk about positive and negative influences several times a week!

Finally, it is essential to be yourself and walk in your strengths. Confidence can make all the difference! Remember who you are in Christ and trust Him to work through you!

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God, thanks for Your abundant grace and magnanimous influence in our lives. Protect us and help us walk wisely so we may influence others for Your kingdom. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Who are you influencing? Is your impact helpful and encouraging, or harmful?

Tasks: Consider your words and actions, as well as the impact they have.

Posted on in Being Gracious, Fear/Don't Fake Brave, Gratitude, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Pivot, Wisdom, Words

On Peace vs. Chaos

For the last two mornings, I woke up earlier than my alarm. I thought about returning to bed, but I decided I probably wouldn’t get much rest. Then, the Holy Spirit has reminded me that I requested extra time in my day to Journible through the book of Galatians. I decided to just go with it!

Even though I am trying to go to bed earlier, I have still been a little short on sleep. But, I know if God wakes me up, then He will cover me. His mercies are new every morning, and His grace is sufficient!

So far, I have spent about twenty minutes copying God’s Word before heading downstairs to exercise. Sometimes, just taking the first step is the most important thing! It has felt good to start my day in a peaceful manner, and it has set my whole day off on a good path!

Galatians is about the Apostle Paul setting early Christians straight and clarifying some significant issues that were creeping in and causing chaos. Some thought they had to keep all the former Jewish laws and were trying to enforce them on others. However, Paul writes about God’s gospel of grace, found in Jesus’ death and resurrection alone.

It’s not about doing more; it’s about drawing close. Nothing more, nothing less.

Free Mountains Lake photo and picture

In light of Jesus’ Good News of grace and forgiveness, there is a stark difference between peace and chaos. Sometimes, chaos results from personal choices, and sometimes, it happens to us (cancer or 9/11 or grief, for example). Chaos feels inevitable if we don’t actively pursue peace. Yes, we must challenge ourselves to remain at peace!

Over the years, I have seen a disturbing pattern. People around me living in chaos, unable to find true peace. They run all over trying a million things, ignoring the Prince of Peace, Jesus. Sadly, the chaos often spills over to affect their families and others around them. Indeed, their poor decisions can impact generations after them in a ripple effect.

Signs of peace may include quiet, clarity, harmony, unity, joy, gratitude, generosity, patience, rest, and a slower pace. Sticking with something long-term and not giving up just because it is difficult indicates a sense of peace. To some, peace may align with boredom, but it brings freedom and space for doing life’s essentials. Not rushing around means I can maintain my priorities and have flexibility in my schedule.

Chaos may come with noise, confusion, distraction, fear, anxiety, anger, blame, flashiness, busyness, frenetic speed, and exhaustion. Ideals and commitments are often tossed aside. Frequently switching jobs, relationships, vehicles, or jobs (chasing novelty) may indicate chaos. There is nothing wrong with novelty, but it can’t be the main thing.

Peace involves guarding your heart, while the trainwreck of chaos causes major heartbreak. I have seen people panic and make huge mistakes that ruined their careers, marriages, and reputations. Some have even lost their homes. Yes, there is forgiveness, but people don’t forget or trust again so easily, and they have struggled to make their comeback. But, there is hope in the midst of turmoil.

“The Lord is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust in him.” This verse is from Nahum 1:7, but we see God calling us to Him all throughout Scripture. Jesus said His peace is different from any ‘sense’ of peace the world offers (overused words like self-care and wellness come to mind… good to a point, but not the final solution!).

In another letter/book, Paul tells us to “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts…” (Colossians 3:15). This means we must give all the chaos to Jesus and let Him calm our hearts. We must give Him full reign and let Him dictate our course.

I sure don’t do everything perfectly, but I am determined to maintain my God-given sense of peace, whatever the cost. That means staying close to Jesus and listening to the Holy Spirit. Asking for His input first, not just making my own assumptions.

Jesus promised us His very own peace, a gift from the Holy Spirit, who lives in those who follow Christ. He planted the spiritual fruit of peace, but we must cultivate it in the right environment. I’m grateful that He is faithful and trustworthy to help us! If we let Him!

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God, thanks for Your overwhelming peace, which anchors me! Help me move at Your pace so that I can maintain my peace. Let my gratitude, generosity, and grace grow so I can spread Your peace to others. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Are you in a season of plentiful peace or constant chaos? What are you doing about it?

Tasks: Be humble and check your heart. Let God lead and make any changes with a joyful heart.

Posted on in Gratitude, Journey of Grace, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Parenting, Perseverance, Personality, Prayer

Focused, Not Frazzled

Well, we are a couple of weeks into Lydia’s school year! She’s starting well and seems to be enjoying it. She has been tackling homework, and I am helping her stay on track and set some boundaries with her time. There are natural consequences if she “forgets” to complete an assignment, and we are both learning as we go!

Sometime last year, I felt God prompt me to stay available for Lydia. It’s just the two of us at home, and I am her main support. So, I have needed to say ‘no’ to many requests for my time to have flexibility. I won’t say I have cleared my schedule completely, but by and large, that’s exactly what I’ve done!

When Lydia was younger, I was much more active with friends, church, and moms groups. She was well-behaved, and I could trust her to attend events with me. As a single mom, I didn’t have many other options! I quickly learned that if I wanted to be involved in something, it had to work for Lydia, too. Often, that meant hosting events at our house so she could go to bed at a reasonable hour.

I volunteered last fall at church for a Wednesday night class. It worked well since Lydia was there at youth group. I loved meeting some new friends! But the class has changed to a different evening, and I chose not to be involved so I can be home in the evenings. Perhaps it will work out in the future, but I am confident I made the right choice for now. 

Time is flying, and I know I won’t always have this opportunity with Lydia. I am grateful for God leading me to step back a little. Anyone can serve in their free time, but only I can be Lydia’s mom!

Free Leaf Hand photo and picture

All of this has been good for me, too! I have enjoyed a slower pace, which is probably my natural preference. Slow and steady wins the race… 🙂 I have loved having time to pray and listen to God because my mind is focused, not frazzled. I am also enjoying getting up early to exercise before work. As a result, I have more energy, less pain, and a better attitude. All because I said yes to God and no to other things.

That doesn’t mean I am doing nothing with or for other people. I talk with people all day at work, serving them to the best of my ability. If anything, because I am well-rested, I am more present and patient with my patients!

Outside of work, I sometimes meet with people God Himself puts in my path – often on a last-minute basis. I will encourage another single mom when she calls. I may write a note to a friend in need. I can go meet the new neighbors because I am not rushing out the door.

I know this season won’t last forever, so I will trust God and His timing. We are still plenty ‘busy’ with mowing, house chores, work, school, etc., but I appreciate having less stress and more peace. All advantages of listening to God and doing what He says!

His thoughts are higher, and His ways are greater. He knows exactly what we need!

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Lord, thanks for helping me find peace in this season. Give me the strength and wisdom to say ‘yes’ and ‘no’ to the right things. May I have a humble heart and be quick to obey. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Question: What do you perceive God is prompting you to do? If it is the same old message, try obedience.  If you are having trouble hearing Him, start with the last thing you know for sure! After you’ve tackled that, He will probably say something new!

Task: Take a little time out this week to listen to God. Pause and seek solitude. Turn off social media and any other distractions. Check in with Him and see if you need to make any changes.