Month: July 2025

Posted on in Gratitude, Kindness, Miscellaneous, Parenting

Just Keep Growing

As a parent, it’s fun to see our kids learning new things. Lydia has been lounging for most of the summer, and I have been happy to let her. Sure, I have given her chores several days a week, but I also realize we are only young once.

Teenagers need more rest, and I can let her sleep in. She prefers to have a small to-do list, so if I don’t have chores for her that day, I encourage her to make her own. I might suggest practicing her viola, reading, spending time with Jesus, cleaning her room, showering, etc. I don’t worry if she doesn’t get it all done.

Someday, Lydia will have to get up and go each summer morning. So, I relish letting her chill for now. It has been an interesting summer in that when I get home, Lydia is eager to chat and hang out. It probably helps that I put some time limits on her phone and internet use! 😉

Since she has a lot of downtime, Lydia enjoys making wish lists of things she wants to buy. She has limited cash, of course, so either she will have to burn through her funds or I will have to chip in. I have to laugh because a lot of what she is picking was popular when I was a kid: faded jeans/shorts, sweatpants, baggy shirts, and Birkenstocks.

Lydia is my only child, and she is generally an easy kid, so it would be easy to spoil her. However, I set good limits and remind her to look for value and a good deal. I rarely buy the first thing Lydia sees and make her research the best price for the quality. I tend to resist buying name brands and ask for a list of the pros and cons since I don’t want her to feel entitled. Sometimes I will splurge, but often we’ll split the cost, shop at a thrift store for the item, or buy a knockoff.

It has been fun to see how Lydia has grown this summer, moreover, in the last two weeks! She’s grown a little taller, yes, but she’s also impressed me lately in other areas. Lydia has shown more responsibility and initiative around the house. She has grown in spiritual maturity, too, asking her friends if she can pray for them. She has texted them the most thoughtful prayers on their behalf! I love seeing her heart for her friends!

All on her own, Lydia also found a website that encourages people to write to the elderly. She plans to start doing this regularly, though I am not holding her to it. We bought some cards, stationery, and other supplies so that she can bless these strangers. (She’s a little timid to write to people she knows, but I hope she will in the future.) I will review what Lydia writes to ensure it meets the guidelines, but my mom would be so proud because she had her own card-writing ministry!

As I reflect on these points above, I am reminded that each of us has a special way of helping others. Serving and loving people is not about giving a lot of money, but about having a compassionate heart to bless others and spread the love of Jesus.

As much as I am proud of Lydia, just think about how much God loves you and is proud of you. Let that sink in for a minute!

If you have not connected with the Lord for a while, now is your chance. Call out to Jesus, and He will be right there with you. He loves you so much and wants the best for you. He has good plans in store, so just keep growing in Him!

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Heavenly Father, thanks for all the ways You love us and help us grow. Help us continue to draw near to You and mature in our faith. May we love others like You do! In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: How has God blessed you this week? How can you serve someone else today?

Tasks: Use your unique gifts, skills, personality, opportunities, and interests to love God and serve others. Let your roots grow down into Him… and read Colossians 2:7-9. Pray about what to do and then move forward!

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

Finding Grace #490

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 week has been pretty calm, compared to some weeks! 

Work was steady but good. No big changes this week, lol. Visiting the chiropractor was greatly needed and appreciated; I am glad to have access to quality healthcare benefits. I feel way better than I did a year ago!

I talked with one of my best friends late one night. We always end up laughing a lot. We’ve been playing phone tag for a while, but finally managed to catch up just as I was ready to turn out the light and go to bed. It was worth staying up another forty-five minutes to chat with her! Good friends are good for the heart!

On Thursday, Lydia got her final orthodontic retainers (meaning she doesn’t have her Invisalign trays anymore). The change was rather subtle since she didn’t have actual braces this time. She did when she was seven, but we opted for the trays a year and a half ago instead. She’s happy with the transformation and will soon only have to wear the trays overnight.

Yesterday, I dropped off Lydia and a friend at the Redhawks baseball game, where they met the youth group for a fun outing! After that, I visited the NDSU horticulture research plot nearby. I took several pretty pictures of flowers (phlox above) and reminisced about the times I would call my mom from there to tell her about the flowers and get her insights on life. She’s been gone five months, and it seems like forever.

After we arrived home from the Redhawks, Lydia was in the mood to chat. It’s always at bedtime, lol! But, as my dad reminded me this morning on a phone call, these times go by so fast, and it’s good to be available for her. Lydia did say she’s glad she can tell me anything, so I’m grateful to take advantage of the opportunity!

Today, we are mostly relaxing after a late night and sleeping in. Tonight, we worked out together for a little bit and then played three mean games of Sorry!

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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 Gratitude, Miscellaneous, Personality, Pivot, Prayer, Wisdom, Worship

Worthy of Praise

We sing a song at church called “Praise” by Elevation Worship. It is a fun song to sing, but the message is also important. Here’s one section of the lyrics:

I’ll praise when I feel it
And I’ll praise when I don’t
I’ll praise ’cause I know
You’re still in control
Because my praise is a weapon
It’s more than a sound (more than a sound)
Oh, my praise is the shout
That brings Jericho down
 
 
God is worthy of our praise whether we feel like it or not. Praising Him is not always easy or enjoyable. Sometimes, it is downright difficult. Distraction, pain, suffering, grief – there are so many things to take our eyes off Jesus. Still, praise and worship are tools to show others how great God is.
 
When we give God credit for His work in our lives, we magnify His glory and shine attention back to Jesus. Our pride and self-promotion take a worthy hit in the process. As we redirect our focus, we see things His way and trust Him at a deeper level.  This frees us from our chains and confuses our enemy.
 
It’s difficult to praise God when things are going wrong, but it blesses God and brings blessings upon us, too. Praising God may or may not change our circumstances, but it does change our hearts as the Holy Spirit moves and tweaks our perspective. Talk about transformation!

 
Praise is a timely reminder that people will fail us, but our Creator and Almighty God, never will. He is infinitely faithful and good. He is merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in love. Our Heavenly Father will never leave nor forsake His children. 
 
Praise has the power to prepare us for God’s greater work. As the Holy Spirit redirects us, we are open to what He wants us to do. We align our vision with His and gain confidence to move forward with intention.
 
Praising God has the potential to prevent panic when things go awry. We can praise, pray, and plan in advance! Then, whenever a problem does arise, we are prepared.
 
Praise can be a form of prayer, which is really just communicating with God. The acronym ACTS starts with Adoration, then Confession, Thanksgiving, and Supplication. In some ways, you can praise, worship, and pray all at the same time!
 
Don’t worry if you are a good singer. You can shout your praises or whisper them. There is always a reason to praise. Just come and give God the glory for all He has done for you. He just wants your heart!
 
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Heavenly Father, I praise You for Your mighty works! Thanks for all the ways You love me and provide for me. Help me walk worthy of Your calling today. In Jesus’ Name, Amen
 
Questions: What are some things you are praising God for today? Do you like to sing, or shout, or dance, or journal?
 
Tasks: If you need a primer on praise, the Psalms are a great place to start. I came across Psalm 93 today and encourage you to check it out! Also, here are some of my other blog posts on praise.
Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Gratitude, Journey of Grace, Life is Short, Miscellaneous

Finding Grace #489

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 Iris Flower photo and picture

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

This week was fairly full but really good! We ended up skipping family Zoom on Sunday because each family had something going on. That gave me time to mow the lawn!

On Monday, I went on a long walk with an old friend and coworker. She was so good to me after Dave died, as we shared an office and helped each other solve life’s problems (including my grief). Her girls are a few years older than Lydia, so she also helped guide me through the process of choosing a preschool and preparing for Kindergarten. We covered several miles while talking and catching up. It was just what I needed, and I hope to do it again soon!

Work was busy but went well; I say that a lot, don’t I?! We had an Employee Appreciation Day, which I almost missed due to patient care. But I did manage to grab a plate of food and eat it in between patients. I did not get a chance to play any games or visit with other employees, but that’s okay. I had a nice day, anyway!

This week, I found out that I have been accepted into a leadership and ministry training program starting in August at my church. Lydia is on board and encouraged me to apply. I’m glad I took a leap of faith, as it’s been on my heart for a while. I’ll be in the non-traditional track, which is designed for individuals with regular jobs, families, and other responsibilities. I anticipate spending a few hours a week completing Bible study coursework and then applying what I learn. I am excited to see what God has in store for me!

Yesterday, I took Lydia to get her school supplies! I also registered her for 8th grade, which is hard to believe! Her school list was surprisingly short, and we reminisced about elementary school, when she needed lots of markers, crayons, glue, and scissors. I’m sure it will be an awesome year for her!

Today, we met some friends downtown at the street fair. This is different from last week’s county fair, but I prefer it because it feels quieter and less crowded. The main difference is that there are no rides, but there is music, fair food, and vendors offering various products. I bought some handmade flowery storage pouches and totes, along with a couple of treats to share. It was a gorgeous day to be outside and spend time together!

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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, Journey of Grace, Kindness, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Personality, Pivot, Wisdom, Worship

Becoming Like Jesus

“I have found that trying to become more like Jesus yields far better results than trying to become a better me.”

I came across the quote above last week on Substack, and it has stuck with me since. (I could not find the original source.) The process of becoming more like Jesus is a work of the Holy Spirit, commonly referred to as sanctification. It is not always fun or easy, but it is really the main work of God in our lives.

Our Heavenly Father wants us to come to Him just as we are; we don’t need to do a bunch of good things to earn His favor (that’s grace). At the same time, He also loves us enough not to leave us the way we are. So, God transforms us into the character likeness of Jesus and makes us holy, as He is holy. (Holy does not mean perfect, but set apart.) He is fitting us for Heaven!

Sanctification occurs when the Holy Spirit checks our heart and prompts us to do something different than we would in our own human power. This might be giving money or a favorite belonging when you’re feeling stingy. This might be biting your tongue instead of letting someone know what’s really on your mind. You know you are on the right track when something doesn’t seem fair, but you listen and follow God’s lead anyway.

Free Mountain National Park photo and picture

Slowly but surely, we start to think and act like Jesus. Our hearts become more aligned with His, and we are able to see things from a Heavenly perspective. The Holy Spirit is patient but diligent. If we make a mistake, no worries, He can convict us and set us straight. He is not condemning, but gracious with us if we are humble and repent (Romans 8:1).

Becoming like Jesus is never time wasted, even if it takes a while to come full circle. Often, we have to lay aside our desires and expectations to serve someone else. We can hold space for God to move when we want to rush ahead. We can submit our ideas and plans and take His on instead. We may not fully see the impact of obedience, but, it is always worth the sacrifice.

We will never be perfect on this side of Heaven, but we will receive an eternal reward if we don’t give up. We don’t have to be right or justified, we just need to follow Jesus.

Sanctification often involves serving other people, which helps refine us. It may include waking early to spend time with the Lord before a busy day at work. It may include tending to the kids and letting your spouse sleep in. Or, maybe it’s praying for that certain person who drives you a little crazy. 🙂

Even recently, I have been learning that I don’t have to figure out what I want to do next in life. I don’t have to worry or try to become a more ‘exciting’ person. This frees me up to let God shine in my life more than my own accomplishments. As John the Baptist said, “He must become greater; I must become less” (John 3:30).

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God, thanks for saving me and preparing me for Heaven. Change my heart, Lord, and make me like You. Holy Spirit, continue to move in my life. Thanks for not giving up on me. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Question: How are you becoming more like Jesus… today, this week, this month, so far this year?

Tasks: Read Romans 8 and also Romans 12. Instead of running after your dreams and goals, submit them to Jesus. Chase after Him and be transformed.

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

Finding Grace #488

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 Plantain Lily Hosta photo and picture

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

I had a restful week, and I hope you did, too! Lydia went to camp Monday and came back Friday, so I was on my own after work. I was not worried about her, as she has been there multiple times before. I did a few small projects, read a bit, and spent time with the Lord. 

I had a lighter workload this week, as I had blocked some time to cover for a friend. I was able to pace myself and get most of  my own charting done on time. So, I was able to feel “rested” when I got home, too.

This week, I had some great conversations with my sister and later, my dad. They helped me think through some landscaping options; I’m hoping to have that done later this season. My nephew also popped on to tell me little stories, so that was a lot of fun! It is always good to connect with them on a deeper level.

Today, I did lots of little house projects, like filling the soap dispenser, cleaning the bathtub, doing laundry, and paying bills while listening to some podcasts. I also spent time with Lydia, as we missed each other all week! 🙂

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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, Wisdom, Worship

A “With Us” God

This week, I am praying and reflecting on the great losses of life and property in recent Texas floods. Natural disasters, like fires, earthquakes, and hurricanes, have also happened, though the Texas floods hit home because Lydia is at camp this week.

In the midst of tragedy, including wars, people tend to ask “Why didn’t God prevent this?” and Where is God in all of this?” I don’t have all the answers, but I have asked those same questions. I am absolutely sure He is right in it with us. He is Emmanuel, God with us, or as someone once said, He is a “with us” God.

God is outside of Time, but He’s right here, too. He can be everywhere all at once. There’s no place He’d rather be than with those He loves.

God is a loving Father who fights for His children. He, too, faced heartbreaking loss when Jesus died on the cross. Jesus could have shunned the cross, but He knew it was the only way. In fact, this was His redemptive plan from before the beginning of Time. So, I don’t know His purposes in Texas, but I know He understands and grieves with us.

Free Poland Castle photo and picture

God is our refuge and shield. He is a safe place, a hiding place. We can run to Him for protection. As we draw near to Him, He draws near to us. I imagine God holding and carrying the girls from Mystic Camp, along with so many others who were swept into the water. I am praying everyone is found.

God’s delay is not absence or apathy. His timing is just different, and His ways are higher than ours. He is sovereign over the good and bad. (He does not send bad things upon us, but uses them for our eventual good.) We can trust Him even when we can’t see how it all turns out.

Our Heavenly Father helps us deal with fear, and He comforts us in our grief. We, too, are called to mourn with those who mourn; we can pour out all our emotions to Jesus because He cares for us.

As sad as tragedies are, I cannot imagine facing them without Jesus because He is our only Hope. Every day, we are getting closer to when Jesus will come back. One could say things will continue to get worse before they get better…

Nonetheless, our main focus is to stay close to Jesus and keep our eyes on Him. Whatever you are facing today, lean into God’s love, mercy, and grace. He is faithful and good.

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Father God, thanks for being with us in the good and bad. Please be with those in Texas who are dealing with the aftermath of the flooding. Give them Your comfort and peace. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: How do you reconcile life’s tragedies? Do you turn to Jesus or your own insights?

Task: Read Psalm 91. When the unfathomable occurs, bring everything to the Only One who can hold it all together and work it out for your good and His glory. It will take time, and you may never fully understand it, but He can handle all that concerns you.

 

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

Finding Grace #487

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 Cookies Flags photo and picture

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

This week, I was exhausted but God did so many good things through me. I was short on sleep almost all week, but was able to sleep in a bit one day.

Work was…. a lot. But good, too! In addition to my normal load, I had about ten other patients who needed some help.  But, I was also was “off” 8 hours, due to the holiday weekend. My coworker took two patients that I was supposed to cover another coworker, so that was very helpful. I worked today from 8 to Noon, as it was my designated holiday weekend. God helped me and it all turned out just fine.

On Wednesday, I was off in the afternoon (since I had to work the weekend), and that’s when the appliance repairman was able to come! He was only at my house for about twenty-five minutes. He was able to figure out what was wrong – an internal hose was clogged. He only charged me for the house call since he didn’t need to replace anything. What a blessing!

Friday was Independence Day! We had a pretty relaxing day. Lydia packed for camp next week, and I did a little cooking while talking on the phone. We thought we’d hang outside for fireworks with our neighbors. But, it rained for a little bit that evening, so Lydia and I decided to stay inside and watch The Chosen, Season 5, instead. It’s on Amazon Prime and so good! Watching it for a second time is helpful to catch things I missed before.

Today, on my way to work, I prayed and thanked God for the opportunity to serve Veterans. I appreciate not having to work the other holidays this year, and I’m glad I could do this one for my coworkers. As it turned out, I only had one patient to see and chart. Then, I was able to finish up some other charting, so I don’t have to do it next week! Whew!

I was able to leave work on time today, so I got a few things done around the house. Lydia and I mowed this evening, and now we are hanging 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, Kindness, Life is Short, Little Free Library, Miscellaneous, Worship

Everyday Kindness

These days, we find ourselves in a fast-paced, highly politicized world, and we must keep our eyes on Jesus, who is the Way, the Truth, and the Life (John 14:6). It can take a lot of discernment to see where He is working and how I should join Him. Many of the world’s “causes” are important, but I am not called to go and get involved in each one of them.

There are so many issues, and sometimes it feels like I am not doing enough. Have you ever felt that way? Time feels short, and problems accumulate faster than solutions. Often, I feel called to donate money and pray. However, I also keep my eyes and heart open to those who are in need of help and encouragement in my local community.

Every day, God gives us opportunities to share His love with others. Quite often, He does not require big or bold gestures, but simple acts of kindness…

Recently, at work, I heard about a special request. A hospice Veteran with ALS wanted to take a last ride in his son’s convertible. Our VA police helped the Veteran get into the vehicle. He had a look of pure joy. Over a hundred of us lined the front driveway of the VA to cheer and wave to him. It was also funny when people started cheering for the UPS and garbage trucks, too!

The Veteran also had another wish: to travel to Europe. This is a challenging task to accomplish, given his circumstances, but we were able to assist him by using a virtual reality headset. I’m sure it made a world of difference to this brave man.

Free Antique Car Mg photo and picture

On Sunday afternoon, my doorbell rang unexpectedly. I almost didn’t answer because I thought it was simply a routine package delivery. I’m glad I did because I met a family of four siblings. The kids asked to use my garden hose to fill up their water balloons. At first, I was skeptical, but then I realized they did not have access to a hose at their apartment building.

On the one hand, it is not my responsibility to provide for them, but a few gallons of water is not too much to pay to be a good neighbor. English might be their second language, so I want to make sure they feel safe and welcome. As we talked, I learned their ages range from second to ninth grade. I did not get many details, but I sent them home with their water balloons and some other water toys. If they come back, maybe I will offer them a popsicle!

Yesterday, I made Lydia and her friend frozen pizza and fruit for an impromptu dinner before loading her bike into my car and driving her home. An enterprising young neighbor also sold me a little bracelet to earn some money to fix up his bike.

Free Colorful Colourful photo and picture

For many years, I have had a Little Free Library in my front yard. On Monday, I chatted with a couple of ladies and pet their dog. One of them was happy that she had found a paperback of a book she has been listening to. I encouraged them to stop by anytime.

At work, I’ve had several “extra” patients who needed some help. One that stood out was a tube-feeding patient who has had several challenges. He called me with bad news; he is not long for this world. I offered encouragement, yet he is at total peace and is looking forward to seeing Jesus soon. I included that part in my chart note to inform others, per his request, but also to remind them of our eternal hope.

There are times when we need to take a firm stand for what is right. But with everyday kindness, little by little, we can change the world.

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God, thanks for showing me that I am making a difference in the lives of those around me. Thanks for each person listed above and for all of my readers. Help me continue to live for You and share your grace and love with others. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: How have you seen God at work this week? What can you do to join Him in blessing others?

Task: Don’t overthink kindness (like I sometimes do). Just start small and offer a smile, a listening ear, or a word of encouragement. It might be making a frozen pizza, contributing to a fundraiser, or offering a popsicle… it all counts!