Tag: prayer

Posted on in Fear, Faith, and Moving Forward book, Fear/Don't Fake Brave, Miscellaneous, Parenting, Wisdom

On Hearing God’s Voice

Recently, Lydia asked me a really great question: “How do I know if it is my conscience speaking or God?”

Well, it’s not always an easy answer. Generally, most of us won’t hear an audible voice!

But, I told Lydia God can communicate with us in a variety of ways. He can use circumstances, subtle impressions, our pastors, podcasts, billboards, books, songs, strangers, friends, family, enemies … really, just about anything to get our attention.

In the Bible, God even used a talking donkey (Numbers 22)! It’s so funny how Balaam just answered his donkey… like it was a completely normal occurrence!

Radar, Radar Dish, Earth Station, Fuchsstadt, Reception

So, Lydia and I talked about the art of discernment, which basically means deciding between two or more good options (what is good versus what is best). It does take wisdom to see all the different angles. Often, NOT making a decision is the same as deciding against it.

There are several ways to discern between options, and it is important to seek God’s input. We can review what the Bible says on the topic at hand, and we can check our motives. God won’t ask us to go against His Word, and our conscience is from Him.

Of course, we should pray and seek wise counsel. The Holy Spirit is within us to teach us, lead us, and show us the Truth. We can also learn from people with experience beyond ours. These may include a godly family member, a pastor or counselor, or a trustworthy friend. Is there someone who has a history of making good, wise decisions that turn out well?

We can make a pros-and-cons list, too. Sometimes there are good reasons for and against a certain option. But, seeing the ideas on paper helps us decide what the most important factors are. Is there one that is time-sensitive or weighs more heavily than the others? 

Sound, Wave, Audio, Frequency, Spectrum

I love how we can look back to see the trail of God’s faithfulness over time. He may decide to do something completely new, but there may be a pattern we can learn from as we move forward. Trust God to equip you and put you in the right place at the right time!

Of note, it is easier to hear from God if we are in the habit of listening to Him. Let’s tune our spiritual eyes and ears to Him, so we can see Him at work around us and hear His song (Zephaniah 3:17).

God also speaks to those who make the effort to know Him and seek Him out. Then, we are more likely to honor Him as we listen and obey.

Ultimately, PEACE is the final indicator for whether or not to do something. If you don’t have peace, then that’s your answer… don’t do it. Sometimes, there is peace in the presence of fear (that’s courage). Do it afraid!

When the way seems impossible and we want to give up, we have to choose faith over fear. That’s why good decisions often take time. Rushing means our emotions may still be all over the place.

For me, the sense of desperation is usually a red flag. So, it is good to be calm and clear-headed before making a decision. Especially if there is a lot at stake! 

Finally, we have to accept responsibility for our decisions and live with the consequences. Sometimes, there is an obvious win-win and sometimes we just have to make the best decision we can. Consider disconnecting from all the ‘noise’ of music, television, and social media so you can hear God more clearly.

We may not have all the answers or know all the details, but we can always take the first step, trusting God will redirect us and make our path clear (Proverbs 3:5-6). If we’re open to what He wants in our lives, He will make sure we know what that is!

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God, thanks for filling us with the mind of Christ! We don’t have to be confused or concerned. You will tell us what we need to know and when. Help us to listen, Lord. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: What’s your experience in listening for God’s voice? Is it easy for you to understand what He is saying? How can you get better at this?

Tasks: Read Psalm 29:3-5 and Jeremiah 33:3. Next time you are faced with a big decision, try some of the ideas above to help you discern what to do! Remember to follow the way of peace!

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

Resolute

What a difference a week can make. The news about Ukraine is heartwrenching and horrible. The citizens are experiencing so much devastation and loss, but they are rallying. I am praying for wisdom, discernment, courage, peace, and protection there.

I am grateful for the unprecedented unity shown so far in Europe and pray it makes a difference in the outcome. I am also praying for our American role in all of this. We don’t know the best way forward, nor what the future holds… but God does.

We are collectively holding our breath to see what happens next, yet this present conflict is not a surprise to our Heavenly Father. It surely breaks His heart, but He is still in control. Nothing catches Almighty God off guard, and nothing can separate us from His unfailing love!

Sunflower, Yellow, Flower, Pollen, Petals, Bloom

As we start the season of Lent today, I am reminded of the sacrifice(s) Jesus made for us, and the sacrifice we are called to make, too. Are you ‘giving up’ anything for Lent? I am grateful to have the privilege of time to think about my many options, as I am sitting still, safe and warm, not fleeing for my life.

Being a Christian is a daily commitment and a call to war, at least in the spiritual sense. It’s not about “fire insurance,” comfort, or even finding significance, though in America, sometimes we forget. Nonetheless, we must not run away in difficult times but remain resolute in our faith. That doesn’t mean we don’t struggle, but we rely on God’s strength and power.

Thus, we don’t have to be afraid when the world is in chaos. We should expect tumultuous times, though not pursue them. But, ultimately, everything we do should be centered on Jesus Christ. That includes prayer, giving generously, and seeking the good of others. Yes, we bring the light of Jesus into the darkness of the world.

In areas where there is darkness vs. light conflict, people tend to come to Jesus en masse. Time and again, traumatic experiences and persecution make people crave “more” than what is in front of them. People become desperate, even when following Jesus puts them at greater risk. Do you and I chase after Jesus like that?

In countries where the Gospel (good news!) is forbidden, these followers share Bibles and meet in secret. They bravely choose Jesus. It’s rather convicting to consider that sometimes, I am running out the door on a prayer.

I’m sure you can relate, but the point is we need to be prepared for trials and tribulations because they are coming. We can’t afford to ‘just get by’ when it comes to prayer or other spiritual matters… we need to be in our Bibles and on our knees before God.

Maybe your personal time and comfort is something to sacrifice, for Lent, to start.

You know, we do not fight as the world does; we level up in prayer. Therefore, our hope is not in anything this world has to offer. Jesus is our Rock, our Savior, and our Defender, a strong tower in times of need.  Our Hope and our Victory are in Him alone.

The One who calls us to be holy and humble, righteous and faithful, just and peace-loving is also the One who calls us to stand firm and fight evil, to be strong and not give in to fear. Holy Spirit, empower us.

Ephesians 6:10-13, NIV says, “Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For 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. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.”

Psalm 27:13 says, “Though an army may encamp against me, My heart shall not fear;
Though war may rise against me, In this I will be confident...”

Friends, this world is going to burn someday, but our Hope is unwavering… resolute.

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Jesus, Prince of Peace, we need You! Come quickly, Lord! Lead us and guide us. Give us wisdom to know what to do and the courage to do it. Refine us during this time as we bring Your light to the darkness of this world. Help us stand firm and walk in Victory. In Your Name, Amen

Question: Are you prayed up and prepared to stand firm during your next trial?

Task: Set aside time every day for prayer and Bible study. Be willing to do the difficult thing. Get up early, first things first. Turn off music, media, and anything else that threatens to take your focus. This is vital.

Posted on in Fear/Don't Fake Brave, Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Gratitude, Miscellaneous, Parenting, Perseverance, Prayer

Finding Grace #312

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!

Bridge, Wooden, Winter, Snow, Mountains, Poland, Wood

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

Overall, this was another good week, though it was sad and heavy at times due to foreign events in Ukraine. I was leaving a store yesterday afternoon thinking about traffic and ‘all’ I had to do. But, then the thought occurred to me, “I am not getting bombed and I am not fearing for my safety. I’m fine.” I’m keeping Ukraine in prayer.

This week, I decided to forgo a doctor’s appointment for my toe because it is pretty close to healed. I don’t know if there’s anything else that can be done for it, so I canceled the appointment. It turned out to be a good idea because it was a busy work week and I was able to use that time for charting.

I enjoyed the ladies’ group at church and was able to connect with a new widow friend. It is a tough road to walk, but I hope to encourage her as best I can.

I talked with a friend about this week’s blog post on bravery. We discussed some kid-friendly resources, so I ordered a few workbooks for Lydia and me to try! I hope to review them for you soon!

This morning, I was on-call for work but did not get called in. I got up early and was ready to go, but I am glad I was able to relax. Later, Lydia was invited over to a friend’s house, so I had the afternoon and early evening to myself!

Early in the week, we had off for a blizzardy President’s Day. Then, Lydia was off due to the same blizzard on Tuesday. It was cold early on, but today, it was finally in the 20s or so above zero! It was so pretty and felt great!

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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, Fear/Don't Fake Brave, Kindness, Miscellaneous, Parenting, Perseverance, Personality, Wisdom

Brave, Smart, or Kind

Do you ever try to talk yourself out of decisions? Or is that just me?

Last week, I had said I would attend an event but was on the fence about actually doing so. Even though I wanted to go, I kind of didn’t want to go. Sometimes it’s an introvert thing and sometimes it is a fear thing… honestly, it may be both.

I was raised to honor commitments, but even so, I was trying to think of other things to do! It’s cold. It’s dark. I’m tired. I’m busy and want a break. I need to, I should…

Most of these were excuses, which should have been my first clue. Though, a couple of possible solutions did pop into my head. One, I could have practiced for the next day’s presentation at work; that would have been smart. And, two, I could have checked in on a friend who is a new widow and single mom; that would have been kind.

Sensing a teachable moment, I asked Lydia, “Should I do something brave, smart, or kind?” And then, I told her about these three ideas also explaining that all of them were good options.

It was a good, better, best type of moment. There wasn’t an obviously wrong answer.

Path, Feet, Shoes, Road Surface, Direction, Arrow

I loved Lydia’s response: “I think you should do the brave thing and go. You can probably practice later, and maybe you could show your friend kindness in some other way. But this is the only chance to be brave.”

We discussed it further and we agreed. I didn’t really need to practice much for my presentation since it is a very familiar nutrition topic. Often, I joke that I could do that while asleep! I talk about it more or less every day, so I know it inside and out.

And, while I didn’t tell Lydia this, I had already reached out to my widow friend. I wanted to be open in case God had our paths cross that night and she wanted to talk. But, I also wanted to give her some space since she has been overwhelmed. Of course, there is a balance and the key is listening to the Holy Spirit’s timing. He did not have our paths cross that night.

Basically, since I was at risk of chickening out, I knew I needed to do the brave thing and show up. Fear is so subtle isn’t it?! Faith is the only way forward!

I can do difficult things, and I am so glad I did. I had a great time and shared a lot of laughter with some really sweet ladies. If I had chosen an option other than bravery, I might have missed an opportunity to meet new friends. Or, it might be even more difficult or awkward the next time. The first step is always the hardest!

Be, Brave, Svg, Motivation, Courage

Then, a few days later, Lydia chickened out several times all within the same day.

For example, I asked her to stand in a separate grocery line and make a purchase (on her own, while I was nearby), but she didn’t. In another instance, she completely missed out on a fun reward because she stalled and didn’t get out the door in time. Fear had her stuck in her tracks. 

When we discussed it, she said, “I’m just afraid of everything!” This stood out to me because it is uncharacteristic of how she normally acts… and I can totally relate.

In fact, I was able to share a little of my story and my fight against fear. Even as a young child, I was afraid. Fear was always an undercurrent, but difficult for me to fully identify and deal with. So, it was interesting how I could recognize the lies and reframe them for Lydia.

I explained that Jesus set us free from fear, and now we don’t have to be afraid. Fear is normal, but we don’t have to dwell on it or stay in that mindset. We have to challenge our fears in order to keep moving forward!

It’s as if we are sitting in a jail cell feeling sorry for ourselves when the key is in the door standing wide open. I’m sure God is like, “Hello!!! I already did the difficult work! All you have to do is walk out and be free!”

Jesus is so much more than our ‘get-out-of-jail-free’ card.

Fearful events happen all around us. We can’t always get away from every obstacle. But, over and over in the Bible, God commands us, “Do not be afraid.” So, it seems we are responsible for not giving in to fear and staying stuck. God always provides a way to move forward, if we are willing to be brave.

There are several ways we can combat fear. We can pray for help, quote a Bible verse, ask a friend to come with us… but ultimately, we need to show up and do the difficult thing anyway. We won’t always get it right the first time, but as long as we stand in faith, we win!

Often, we have to challenge ourselves with little scary tasks so we are prepared when the big ones come! Thus, Lydia and I decided to work toward this together and keep each other accountable. I will be presenting small ongoing weekly challenges to build her up for the future. I’m still sorting out what that looks like!

I’m her mom, yes, but I know all too well what happens when we give in to fear. Over time, it becomes a stronghold and I will not allow that on my watch!

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God, thank You for setting us free from fear so we can walk in Your grace and Truth. We praise You because we don’t have to be afraid!! Open our eyes to the lies we believe so we may challenge them and keep moving forward. We have Victory! In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: How have you been brave, smart, or kind this week? Has it been easy or a challenge? What will you do differently next time?

Tasks: Challenge your fears, and do it afraid! Watch The Pilgrim’s Progress, which is based on the classic story by John Bunyan. It highlights several of the lies we believe in our Christian walk.

Posted on in Being Gracious, Fruit, Gratitude, Journey of Grace, Kindness, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Perfectionism, Perseverance, Personality, Prayer

Weary Traveler

Ah, the last few weeks have been a little trying for me! Yes, I have been repeatedly taking my worries to the Lord, focusing on rest and sleep, and other self-care tasks. Listening to uplifting music and exercising also have helped when I can squeeze them in.

In all, I am grateful God is doing the heavy work. But sometimes, I still have to do the difficult thing and show up and work hard. That’s just life!

Personally, I have been stretched in a variety of ways. As such, I have been more sensitive to people’s thoughtless comments… things better left unsaid. Instead of just letting things roll off my back, I have had to work at not taking them to heart.

I have also been keeping friends and family in prayer when they share their concerns. All normal things, really, but sometimes the ups and downs of life just add up.

The good news is that I have heard some recent (positive) updates in all these areas. That relieves a little of the pressure when we see God at work. I am glad He is so good at being God!

Rockclimbing, Success, Mountain, Mountains, Climber

Earlier this week, a dear friend and I were catching up. We were comparing similar stories and I had a really good laugh when she told me “love is not irritable.” Don’t you love when ‘iron sharpens iron?!’

She was speaking about 1 Corinthians 13:5, which also mentions love is not easily angered and keeps no record of wrongs. It was just what I needed to stop being annoyed! 😉

When times get tough, it can be easy to wish things were different or to think the grass is greener somewhere else. If we aren’t careful, we miss all the good things around us…. and there is soooo much good!

In hindsight, we see our out-of-control emotions were part of the problem. Most of the time, just need to hang on, adjust our expectations, and let God do His thing.

Though, I did recently remind Him I can only be one place at one time… so He ‘needed’ to take care of all the other pressing details. Ahem. 😉 But, instead of clearing my schedule for me, He rearranged it and helped me get everything done! I was hoping for an easy out, but He gave me the grace and strength to persevere.

Then, a little while later, I came across Psalm 61 and also the songs, “Fires” and “Weary Traveler,” both by Jordan St. Cyr. These reminded me that we all face trials and we all have a choice in how we handle them. Challenges are part of the refining process, but they don’t last forever. So, don’t give up!

Yes, we can do difficult things with God’s help! He empowers us and helps us do the impossible. He leads us and shows us what to do. He ordains our steps and has perfect timing. He bears the brunt of the burden. He stands with us in the fires of Life and carries us when we are weak and tired.

I’m grateful God’s grace is not a matching program. His goodness and grace are more than enough to meet our needs! And, He helps us extend that grace to others, too.

I’m glad God is God and I am not! He does not change like shifting shadows. He is our constant Rock, a refuge in time of need. He is trustworthy and sure. Thank You, Jesus!

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God, thanks for Your kindness and patience!! Thanks for not giving up on me. Help me extend others the grace You have given me. Help me be loving, not irritable!! In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Have you been calm and peaceful lately, or more easily irritated? How can you let LOVE shine through?

Tasks: Listen to the song, “Fires,” by Jordan St. Cyr and also his song, “Weary Traveler.” So good!!

Posted on in Books and Movies I Like, Fear, Faith, and Moving Forward book, Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Gratitude, Miscellaneous, Parenting, Perseverance, Personality

Finding Grace #309

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!

Travel, Tourism, Park, Spa, Relax, Source, Gazebo

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

This week started off a little shaky but ended well! Praise God! Early on, I was having technical difficulties with my internet. I had to manage my emotions and calm down. I was still able to post my blog for Wednesday, but I had to jump through a few extra hoops. Thankfully, on Friday, the internet company came and updated a few wires and such. It was very out of sync but now it is working very fast and very well!

This week, I was pleased to receive more compliments about my book. In one case, I called to make a routine appointment and the person on the other end was reading it! She said it was good to understand the challenges we faced, but she also appreciated how I regularly turned the story back to God. It is fun to hear from a variety of people and see how God is using my pain for His glory!

Today, Lydia and I relaxed at home. We made a breakfast casserole, and later, some cookies. We told jokes, read books, and made a music playlist with Oldies favorites with family input. We also played a game and watched a movie, which seems to be our winter-weather go to these days! 🙂 We really don’t mind!

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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, Perseverance

Small, But Significant

I am reading through the Chronological Bible again this year, and so I find myself in the book of Job. Even though it is full of suffering, it is also quite rich when we see it tied to purpose and perspective!

In short, Job was a wealthy and generous man who lost everything in a matter of hours. His sons, daughters, servants, and most of his property were gone. Soon, his health was attacked, too. How miserable!

It seems Job felt vulnerable and misunderstood, and it probably felt like God had forgotten him. I know how that feels, and maybe you do, too!

To make matters worse, Job had no support! His wife said he should curse God and die. Even his friends were awful, though perhaps they had a few good things to say. Yet, mostly they chided Job, thinking he must’ve brought all his tragedy on himself (that God was punishing him). With friends like Job’s, who needs enemies?!

Aurora Borealis, Northern Lights, Aurora, Northern

Now, we could spend our time comparing stories of how certain parts of our lives remind us of Job. But, to be honest, most of us haven’t suffered so many losses in such a short time. Though, it sure feels that way sometimes!

Either way, I don’t want to minimize our collective sorrow, and there is no contest here. Instead of one-upping each other with grief stories, let’s love one another.

As a reminder, there are many kinds of loss, including finances, divorce, death, unfulfilled expectations or dreams, and more. Each is difficult, and we all need Jesus.

Thankfully, our suffering is not for nothing. There is usually so much more going on behind the scenes. Still, God will use our pain for a new purpose. We can trust Him, and He won’t let us down.

Aurora, Polar Lights, Northern Lights, Aurora Borealis

Here are a few takeaways from Job so far: Despite all the calamity, pain, and doubts, Job kept working out his faith. Thus, he also had hope. He said, “I know my redeemer lives…”

Job lived around the time of Genesis. So even before salvation was here (Jesus Christ), He trusted God even when he could not see.

God Himself said Job was blameless and upright; there was no one like him. But still, he suffered major losses.

As Job later found out, he and everything he knew was quite small compared to God’s majesty and wisdom! Indeed, I love the end of Job when it’s God’s turn to defend Himself.

I find myself smiling at God’s questions to Job about creation and the natural world. An example, in my paraphrase: Have you seen the ostrich I made? She’s a terrible mom and kind of spacey… but wow, she’s a great runner! 😉 See the actual verses in context here!

Yet, through His discourse, God reminds Job (and us) that He has everything under control. In fact, the book of Job is less about his suffering and more about God’s character.

When suffering occurs, it is easy to focus on our problem and forget that God is greater and above it all. But in Job, we see though we are small, we are significant to God.

Whatever you are going through today, remember you are not alone. It may be the fight of your life, but God sees you. God hears you. He is with you and for you. Let Him comfort and carry you today.

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God, amid sorrow and suffering, draw me close. When I can’t bear the burden, help me bring it to You. Be my strength and comfort and peace. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: When you think of all the losses you have faced, can You see how God carried you through? How does that knowledge help you in your current circumstances?

Task: Listen to this song, but Nicole C. Mullen. It’s a classic!

Posted on in Fear, Faith, and Moving Forward book, Gratitude, Journey of Grace, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Wisdom

Reflecting on Ruth

Recently I started another Journible! I went through the Gospel of John in 2018 and finished the book of Jude last month (a quick win because it’s only twenty-five verses)!

Next, I am going through Ruth! I just started this week, but already it has impacted me. If you have read my book, then you’ll know I pay extra attention to widows in the Bible. Ruth is not a new story to me, but I am learning new things as I write God’s word line by line!

In short, Ruth was an outsider and a foreigner. She left all she knew in the country of Moab to follow her mother-in-law back to Israel. She gleaned barley in a field to make ends meet. In time, Ruth met Boaz, and he became her kinsman-redeemer, marrying her.

Then, they had a baby, and eventually, Ruth became the great-grandmother of King David. All in all, the book of Ruth is a beautiful love story showing God’s faithfulness.

But, that’s not what caught my attention.

Jesus, God, Christ, Holy, Spirit, Ruth, Bible, Gospel

Instead, I quickly noticed how Ruth went against the grain. She moved toward God when most people at that time were doing their own thing and worshiping other gods (Judges 17:6). Yes, Israel was a mess!

Ruth wasn’t the only one, of course. Boaz and Naomi, among others, also followed Godly principles. Though, because Ruth was a foreigner (not a Jew), technically, God’s promises didn’t apply to her. She would have been considered a nobody by the rest of society.

Additionally, Ruth was grieving and suffered major losses. I can understand how she must’ve felt as she lost her husband, her status as a wife, her local support system, her home, and even her culture. She didn’t have much left.

Nonetheless, she bravely sought God above all else.

I appreciate her example!

When everyone was running away from what they knew was right, Ruth ran toward God. She trusted Him to provide for her and protect her. She was willing to work hard and make a fool of herself. Because of that, God honored her decisions.

We have similar choices to consider today.

Has God asked you to do something that seems like a stretch for you? He may be calling you to move forward in a new direction when everyone else is standing still. It may be scary, but don’t be afraid to stand out and take a chance. He’s got you covered.

I love how God used Ruth’s character to change the course of history. (Ruth is in the bloodline of Jesus (Matthew 1:5!!) She could have stayed down and out, disqualifying herself or discounting her skills and purpose. Instead, she chased after the only One who could make it right. 

Let’s be like Ruth and pursue God, not for what He can do for us, but for Who He is. Soak up His grace, mercy, and love. Then, out of that abundance, let’s watch Him move on our behalf!

Today, remember God sees you and knows the challenges you face. Your situation is not a surprise to Him. He has not left you all alone or without help. Trust Him and do the difficult thing!

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God, You are so kind and generous! Thanks for Your grace, mercy, and love. Help us shake off all our doubts and come to You wholeheartedly. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Did you know Boaz’s mother was Rahab, the former prostitute from Jericho? They also were ancestors of Jesus… so don’t you think He can use you, too?

Tasks: Check out the Journible website and join me! Remember, no one is too far gone to be used by God. He can use anyone who is willing to follow after Him!

Posted on in Fear, Faith, and Moving Forward book, Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Gratitude, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Prayer

Finding Grace #301

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!

Barn, Red, Christmas, Wreath, Farm, Rural, Landscape

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

This week was fun and short! On Monday, we had friends from church over. We enjoyed some treats and had shared many laughs. We also shared some struggles and prayer requests, then offered support to each other. It was such a rich time!

I took a couple of days off from work to spend time with family. That meant I had to cram a whole lot of tasks into just a few days. At home, I kept things simple. At work, I got everything finished thanks to a friend/coworker taking one of my patients!

Sometimes cramming a lot into a little space of time is stressful.  I tried to keep things in perspective and invite Jesus into each situation. And, I took lots of deep breaths.

We enjoyed seeing extended family and celebrating some December birthdays! We pulled off a big surprise for my dad. It was so good to see them since we all live so far away!

This week, I sent out more books and enjoyed hearing from several people about what my words and story meant to them. If you ordered from one of the online retailers, I would appreciate it if you could leave a positive review. Thank you very much!

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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, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Prayer, Wisdom, Words, Worship

Christmas with The Chosen

This past Sunday afternoon, Lydia and I went to the local movie theater to see “Christmas with The Chosen.”  I told her we were voting with our dollars in support. But, I received so much more. It was so good, and I am still thinking about how much I loved it.

The first hour (of two) was primarily a mix of classic Christmas songs with a few new ones. There was a variety of contemporary singers from several backgrounds. I didn’t expect that much singing, but I enjoyed seeing people worshiping God on the big screen! That was a first!

Nativity Scene, Crib, Barn, Joseph, Maria, Silhouettes

Here are just a few of the highlights for me:

Phil Wickham was the opening singer. I love several of his songs and even had one of them as my morning alarm sound (before I put my old phone in the microwave!). On-screen, he somehow reminded me of my neighbor boys (in the future grown-up), both in appearance and style. When I think of him now, I will remember to pray God’s blessings in their young lives.

Brandon Lake’s song, “Gratitude,” is a new favorite. He sang about praising God when we have nothing else to give. Such a timely message. As he sang, I thought: “There are probably a number of people in my life who have never seen a man worship like that.” It was a powerful song, done in a way that is uncommon.

I loved seeing Matt Maher in the lineup. He is so funny and full of joy, yet his lyrics bring a certain gravity, unlike many other artists. For instance, the lyrics to his song, “Lord I Need You” are hanging up next to the mirror in my bathroom. After Dave died, I didn’t always have the words to convey what I felt, but that song was a reflection of my heart. I loved seeing Matt dance and have fun while singing and playing his guitar. To me, it was a portrayal of Jesus (both man and God) being full of life and love.

It was fun to see For King and Country, Jordan Feliz, the Bonner family, Maverick City Music, Caine, We Are Messengers, and more. In all, I loved seeing many different ages, cultures, and skin colors represented. Young and old, that’s how Heaven is going to be. The Kingdom of God is for everyone.

Christian, Picture, Historical, Bible, Christianity

There were four amazing monologues by actors in the show. I don’t know which I loved more. Each was so well done.

One of the monologues was about Israel’s history and the darkness, oppression, and isolation they felt under Roman rule. God had been silent for four hundred years, so there was little hope left. Then, Jesus came.

Another actor discussed Shalom, God’s peace, which is transcendent of our circumstances. It is a wholeness and a rightness, that only He can bring. Only Jesus makes the Shalom of God available.

The actual portrayal of Mary and Joseph in the nativity story is one I will be thinking about for some time. The show highlighted their love for each other but also was very real. (Example: Joseph had to clear animal poop out of the way so Mary could lie down.) It was scary and awkward at times for these mere humans, but they were willing to let God work His plan in them and through them.

Some of the movie was related to the birth of Christ, and other scenes were set in the future (after Jesus ascended back to Heaven). The cinematography and storyline were just right. It was fun to see some of the regular characters again and meet some new ones!

The show was overwhelming in the best way possible. I enjoyed showing Lydia a new way to experience God and worship Him! In all, I highly recommend “Christmas with The Chosen” in the theater if you can squeeze it in before Friday (December 10th). Otherwise, it will soon be available the free app!

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God, thanks for a fresh Christmas perspective; it’s all about Jesus! May we honor all He is to us and for us. In His Name, Amen

Questions: Have you watched The Chosen? (There are two seasons so far, with more to come!) Have you been to the movies lately?

Task: If you haven’t already checked out The Chosen show, download the app today! (Android or iPhone) I hope seeing Jesus in a new way will bring you comfort and peace this season.