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

Preparing for Persecution

I woke up thinking about a solemn topic yesterday, Christian martyrdom. I have been praying and thinking about the several international cities in flames due to riots. These dangerous situations are mostly politically and religiously motivated, yet they are nothing new. Persecution and violence happen every year around the world. While American Christians are sometimes mocked, we generally are not hunted down and attacked!

John Bunyan, the Puritanical preacher who wrote Pilgrim’s Progress, was imprisoned for preaching God’s word without “permission” for about twelve years! In fact, most of his writings were done while he was locked up! Similarly, I was recently reminded of the 21 Coptic Christians beheaded for their faith by ISIS members in 2015. And, I often think of Christians being killed in Africa or the those imprisoned and tortured in the underground churches in Asia… not to mention those in the Middle East.

So, one of the first thoughts in my mind yesterday was this: If a gun or ax was held to my head and I was asked to deny my faith, what would my reaction be? I pray that I would stand firm for Jesus, but it is easy to cave into fear. It makes me a little sick to think about the possibility. Hopefully, it will never happen and I am not trying to be dramatic… But in any case, I like to visualize what I would do and work through it well in advance. As I read Revelation, monitor the news, and pray for our upcoming elections, I know now is the time to prepare.

Generally, my focus is to write about God’s abundant grace in my life and show how He is making lemonade from all the chaos life brings. But when push comes to shove, every moment and decision counts. How I use my time and words each day matters.

Do I scroll on social media or do I read about heroes of the faith? Do I yell at Lydia to do the dishes, or do I talk with her about godly priorities? Do I pray for what I want, or do I persevere in prayer for the persecuted brothers and sisters around the world?

Last week, I had a conversation about reading the Bible. It seemed the people I was talking with had known God for quite awhile but were relatively new to reading the Bible, or at least they were not very proficient. One person said she was content with one simple Bible verse on a plaque that she received as a gift years ago. She did not want to move past that one simple verse, so I challenged her to find similar verses in the Bible to give her better understanding! Read the history, read the Psalms, read the Gospels, read the epistles, just read!!

We cannot survive on random Bible verses. How can we expect to know God or stand in our faith when trials come? We must dig deeper to find Truth, as one day, our very lives might depend on it. As we spend time with God in the Bible, the Holy Spirit will teach us and help us grow in faith. And, He will bring those verses to mind when we need them.

Jesus is the soon returning King; knowing Him personally, through prayer and reading His Word is vital. That is the only way we won’t be deceived in the future. Presently, we also can speak up on important topics, be kind and generous to those who need it, and exercise our right to vote for God-honoring policies and freedoms. Imagine if American Christians would actually vote in each election!

Ultimately, I know I don’t have to worry. I must take each day as it comes but look toward for the future. While I can’t always plan ahead, I am not helpless. Jesus is my Victory! The best thing I can do is to stay close to Jesus, reading His word, pouring out my heart to Him, and listening for His Voice. He is faithful to care for me and all my concerns! He is my hiding place!

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God, thank You for being my Protector. Help me stand firm in my faith and represent You well. Give me wisdom to know what to do and the courage to do it. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: When trials come, how do you handle them? Do whine and complain about the difficulty, or do resolve to never give up? Do you back down and cower in fear, or do you boldly rise up and move forward with Jesus?

Task: Check out this website and pray for the persecuted Church around the world!

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Gratitude, Kindness, Life is Short, Little Free Library, Miscellaneous

Finding Grace #554

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 was full but also relaxing. I went to the chiropractor and got a massage on Monday, but also worked hard helping a friend/coworker. It was a good mix of self-care and service!

Work has been good and busy. Between patients, projects, classes, deadlines, and meetings, I have had little downtime. But, my patients have been really sweet and eager to learn for the most part, so that has made it all worth it! 

On Thursday, my family celebrated my mom’s 70th birthday, her second in Heaven. I took a half-day off work and walked through some local parks. It was peaceful watching the colorful leaves fall like confetti! Then, I ran some errands before heading home. Lydia was off from school, so we hung out for awhile before I went to Alpha in the evening!

Yesterday after work, I offered to watch another coworker’s kids (ages 5, 3, and 1) while she ran to Kohls to find a dress for an event. It is difficult to try on clothes with three little ones! Lydia and I had fun playing soccer and wiffle ball with the boys and holding the little girl. They even picked out some books from my little free library! I am so glad we could help!

Today was focused on a few chores, mowing, and errands, among our usual Saturday things. Tonight she is hanging out with school friends and I am relaxing! I will pick her up in a bit and can’t wait to hear all about 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 Gratitude, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Prayer

Pampering and Peace

On Monday, I was off for Columbus Day. It is the only holiday of they year that I have off  from work, but Lydia does not have off from school. So it has become a day to pamper myself a bit!

I slept in since Lydia was actually at a Congress event in Bismarck. I ate a good breakfast, exercised, and went to the chiropractor. After that, I went home to work on some continuing education before going to get a massage. In the afternoon, I went to a friend’s house to help her move some items ahead of a major house renovation. We saved the heavy furniture for others to do!

About six weeks ago at church, I had asked for prayer for my hip. At the time, the chiropractor gave me some exercises for my hip flexors, muscles deep inside the area. But, they didn’t make much of a difference and I gave her the update on Monday. The pain is more on the outside of my hip and thigh.

With the new insights, my chiropractor explained my IT band and TFL are likely irritated and inflamed. This area has caused hip pain on and off since I was a teenager playing soccer. In college, I would run and have pain for a few days, as well. Over the years, I suppose I have just gotten used to it! Perhaps it is related to general tightness, but now that other areas are resolving, I am realizing that my hip is also due to be healed.

Yes, praise God, I have learned a lot about myself in the last three years: Just by changing to minimalist shoes, my body is moving better. I’ve had many physical improvements as a result. I am not willing to stay in pain if I can help it! Noticing more about my body gave me hope and a surge of bravery leading me through my MARPE journey.

Anyway, my chiropractor gave me a few exercises and tips to decrease the pain and inflammation. She encouraged heat, stretching, and continuing to work with the various tools I have. It felt really good to have a strategy, confirmation of all I have been doing. I explained this to my massage therapist who was also able to work on that left hip area and release some of the fascia. It is still sore but I hope to keep making progress with heat, fascia work, and gentle massage on my own. My massage therapist also encouraged me to do some more self-care techniques at home. I felt so supported by both ladies!

As it was, during my massage, I thought about my mom who would be celebrating her 70th birthday tomorrow. She had such horrible pain over the years, even though she pushed through it with grit and sheer determination. Mom was always learning, trying new things, and doing her best. I know she is cheering me on.

My motivation is to deal with these issues head-on because I want to prevent them from getting worse, leading to a poor outcome some day. This body is the only one I have, a temple of God, and I want to take care of it the best I can. Then, I can serve others more joyfully!

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God, thanks for Your rest, peace, grace, and healing. Help me take good care of myself and my body so I can continue serving others joyfully. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Do you ever go to the chiropractor for an adjustment or get a massage? What is your favorite way to pamper yourself?

Task: Take a few minutes to assess your physical body. Notice any aches or pains and how they may be hindering you from living a full life. Then, see what you can do about it. You personally working on your body is even better than a rehab specialist doing it for you!

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

Finding Grace #553

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 was a little lighter than the last couple. The fall colors are really pretty, too. Just what I’ve needed!

Monday night was my monthly church book club. We had a good time discussing our book and then picked the next few months worth of books. I enjoy meeting with and learning from the ladies, as we represent several decades of life.

On Thursday, I skipped Alpha to attend a school orchestra concert for Lydia. She did great, and I always enjoy listening to her and the others play! I am looking forward to seeing her grow over the next four years!

Work was full as usual, but somehow I stayed on top of things. Yesterday, I left early for an appointment and then ran some errands. I ended up adding a new string of Christmas lights outside. It felt good to get them up early while the weather is warmer!

Today, we video called a friend in Europe. She’s a dear college friend, and we chatted for 2.5 hours! 🙂 We got to visit with her kids and husband, too. It was wonderful to catch up!

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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 Apologetics, Books and Movies I Like, Gratitude, Miscellaneous, Wisdom, Worship

Book Review: Is God a Moral Monster?

On Monday night, my monthly church book club met to discuss the book, “Is God a Moral Monster?” by Paul Copan. Many of the ladies did not quite finish the book, but we had good discussion anyway. The book proved a little more difficult to get through, and that’s why I finished by listening to it on Audible! Nonetheless, it was a joy to meet together and talk about the book, God’s goodness, and how people perceive Him.

YHWH in the Old Testament seems harsh and some people cannot reconcile that to Jesus who was ‘meek and mild.’ But, YHWH and Jesus are both God. Jesus was gentle and lowly at heart, but He also showed His wrath at times. Sometimes we forget that he flipped the money changer tables in the Temple! Even more, Jesus constantly referred to the Old Testament, which was their only Bible, and He is called the Word itself. He referred to or quoted parts of Genesis, Leviticus, Deuteronomy and Psalms, among others.

The book covers many hard topics in the Old Testament, that to our modern, Western mindset do not make much sense. The story of Abraham and Isaac seems abhorrent at first glance, but we miss that Abraham told his servants that both he and Isaac would be back. He trusted God, even when he didn’t understand.

Also, there is a common thought that Joshua killed all the Canaanites including innocent women and children. Yet, we see many of the Canaanites later still living in the land. We don’t know all the details of what happened, but there was likely some hyperbole involved, which was common to the era. Another reminder in the book is that God waited 400+ years to serve justice to the people of Canaan, and He did not reject anyone who wanted to come to Him (ex. Rahab in Jericho).

Reading about slavery in the Old Testament, we think of the horrors of American slavery, not a type of indentured servitude where every debt was canceled in the seventh year. Also, there’s a tendency to read about women and assume they are being mistreated because we do not understand how bad the other nations were to their slaves and women. Israel’s system was a significant upgrade for the time! Israelite men had to abide by rules of war, marriage, sanctity of life, etc. They were not allowed to rape and pillage like warriors in other nations. The system was not perfect, but it was sufficient for a certain time, place, and people.

Similarly, the kosher diet also was a specific way to set God’s people apart from the other nations. Of course, Israel was not “Chosen” because they were amazing, but because God keeps His promises (Deuteronomy 7). They were to show the nations what it means to follow YHWH and live for Him. They were to be an example for others to follow, and when they were not, God punished them. They were blessed to be a blessing and bring salvation (Jesus!) to the world.

The book reminds us that God’s original plan was laid out in the beginning of Genesis. And almost immediately, we ruined it. So, when He gives the law through Moses, it is a bridge, a stepping stone. The Israelites were so like the Egyptians that He had to retrain them to be His people. And still, they often failed miserably. (Israel is “all of us.”)

The Old Testament is descriptive, not always prescriptive or instructive. Not everything we read in the Old Testament is a recommendation or applies to us today (the Ten Commandments do!). Remember, the Law was a bridge to the New Covenant. That said, there is great value in reading about the ancient people and God’s faithfulness.

So, bottom line, God is not a moral monster. He is a Father who is slow to anger and rich in love (Psalm 103). His heart is righteous and pure, full of love and grace. The book content was very thorough and will continue to be a good resource. While it might be somewhat technical, I recommend it!

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God, You are the same yesterday, today, and forever. Thanks that Your heart for Your people is good! Help us reflect Your goodness to a world in need. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Have you ever looked into the customs, culture, politics, worldview, or social structure of the Ancient Near East? How might that increase your understanding of the Old Testament?

Task: Next time you are reading a difficult passage of the Bible, take some time to figure out the culture. There are major differences between the Ancient Near East and our modern Western culture!

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

Finding Grace #552

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 was full but good. I mowed early on since the end of the week was busy. I saw two Monarch butterflies this week, one at home and one at work. It was good to be outside!

Tuesday was a busy day at work but I enjoyed hosting a table for Hunger Action Day. Our display was received well, and I hope we get to do something like that again soon!

I felt a little overwhelmed as I had a lot of normal things to do but also several things popped up. I had several urgent requests for my help or time. All good things but I already had too much on my mind. So, I just did each favor as it came up and made a list of everything else that I (still) need to do. I don’t want to be too busy for godly interruptions!

Thursday night was Alpha. I had a smaller group, as it seemed everyone was busy. But, I still had a good conversation with those at my table. We talked about prayer!

This morning, Lydia and I met with some other dietitians at an organic family farm a few miles south of Moorhead. We learned about the crops they grow: wheat, flax, oats, soybeans, pinto beans, and cover crops. We saw their onsite processing equipment and learned about how they sell their products throughout the region. We also enjoyed trying some tasty samples! This season is especially pretty, and being out in the country reminded me of home. 🙂

Then, we went to the grocery store, bought some pumpkins, made some fajitas, and did our usual Saturday things. We talked about some careers Lydia is interested in, too. It was a great day!

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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, Kindness, Miscellaneous

Hunger Action Day

Hunger Action Month takes place every September to raise awareness and inspire action to end hunger in America. The Feeding America network of food banks launched it in 2007, and Hunger Action Day was yesterday. At work, my dietitian coworker and I, along with a social worker, put together a display on an entryway table for this event.

We took common foods received at local food banks and paired those with healthier items to improve the overall health and quality of the meal. We used foods from our home kitchens and the VA kitchen, as well as fake food models and some items from our demonstration kitchen, where my coworker holds monthly cooking classes. If we didn’t have the whole can or package, we just cut off the label and used that (ex. frozen veggies).

We focused on adding unsalted items to super salty ones and had a mix of name brand foods and generic foods. We had frozen veggies (the food label) and some canned ones. We tried to have all food groups represented on the table, and each meal combination had at least three food groups present, if not all five. We did not cook the foods, just laid out the packages as part of the display.

For instance, we took a package of ramen noodles and matched them with canned chicken, a steamable bag of frozen broccoli, a fruit cup, and a glass of milk! The ramen seasoning is very high in sodium, so someone could leave it out, or use half, or at least make it go further by adding the other lower sodium items. We also put a can of chili with a can of no salt added diced tomatoes, unsalted tomato soup, which could be added on top of a baked potato. We added a can of baked beans, microwave rice, and veggies, which could make a one pot meal, too! We printed recipes to go with these ideas.

We had at least thirty-five Veterans come visit our booth. I think they were drawn to food items they recognized, such as the canned or processed foods, and wondered what we were up to! If we had just had canned vegetables or fruits alone, it might not have caught their attention. Or, perhaps they would have thought it was not possible for them to achieve.

We talked about ways to stretch the Veteran’s food dollars and to make the most of whatever they have at home. Some of them receive monthly benefits of one sort or another, and some of those benefits include SNAP or going to food banks. Some of them have trouble paying for necessities, and some might just like a good deal.

I often tell my patients to get the best quality food they can afford. I also tell them not to throw away food or dump what is in their pantry. I encourage leftovers when possible, as well! Food is too valuable to waste or feel guilty about. Indeed, each type of food can bring something good to the table in its own way.

Anyway, it was a fun afternoon and change of pace. I met several Veterans and recognized others. I am grateful to provide compassionate care and education to all our Veterans. The Fargo VA is a good place to be and work!

Yesterday, in the downtime, I was able to reflect on the Lord’s provision in my life. My pantry and heart are full of blessings. In Jesus, I have all that I need (and more!). Often, we just go through our day without acknowledging all the ways He loves us and cares for us. May this be your reminder today!

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Father God, thanks for all the ways Your provide for me. Help me be generous with all that You have given me. May I be a blessing to others and bring You glory. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Question: Do you use recipes when cooking or just throw things in to a pan or pot and see what comes out?!

Task: Inventory your pantry and freezer and see how many food groups there are. See how many combinations you can come up with for a meal – and then make them! Anything goes!!

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Gratitude, Miscellaneous

Finding Grace #551

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?!

It was a good week overall! Lydia stayed home sick on Monday and still is recovering, but overall doing better. I was able to come home early and that was also good for me.

Work was busy but somehow I stayed on top of my charting. God was so gracious to help me since I wasn’t feeling the best either. Still, I made the best of it and enjoyed my patients.

Thursday night was Alpha at church. We talked about why Jesus had to die (the topic for the week). It was a great conversation, and I am enjoying my group.

This weekend, my mother-in-law is visiting, so we are having a lot of fun. We went to a yoga class and then a movie. We also did a little thrift shopping and have had a lot of fun catching up. I’m enjoying the much needed R&R. I’m sure we will have more adventures tomorrow!

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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, MARPE/Orthodontics, Miscellaneous, Parenting, Perseverance, Prayer

Kindness and Gratitude

I have a lot going on in my heart this week. Mostly gratitude, and a little exhaustion, but I am also in awe as I watch God move on my behalf.

Lydia was sick from Friday to Monday and I had to miss some work on those days. I was glad I could take time off and that my team could cover for me. She is feeling somewhat better now and has some medications which are helping her make it through the school day! Thanks, Lord, for taking good care of us both!

I haven’t been feeling the greatest over the last week either. Not one particular issue other than not sleeping well. I am mostly just feeling a little depleted. In part, I think it is related to subtle seasonal shifts. As the weather changes and the days get shorter, it takes a toll on our bodies! I have been trying to go to bed early and get up early do my normal routine. God has been faithful to infuse me with His strength and energy!

This is a busy time of year at work and school anyway. So, maybe I am just anticipating the craziness before it comes. Like I have said before, just adding one activity can throw off my routine… and this week there are several extras. They are all good things, but just add up. God, help me prioritize my time and show Your goodness to others.

On Saturday, when Lydia was sick and I was on-call, my coworker texted to check on Lydia and see if I needed help with work. I was able to take care of the patient, but that kindness meant a lot.

On Sunday, I took Lydia to the walk-in clinic and CVS for meds. I tried to get ahead for the week though I was tired, too. It is a challenge to relax when there is more that needs to be done. But, the Lord is good and faithful to help me!

Because I only worked half the day on Monday so I could be with Lydia, I was able to quickly mow the lawn knowing I wouldn’t be available the rest of the week. It was as if the Lord overrode my schedule and helped me make the best of the situation.

Yesterday, Lydia and I both had dentist appointments. Mine was a little surprising! With my MARPE, I have been extra diligent to Waterpik, brush, floss, etc. Still, the lady cleaning my teeth noticed some staining in back. She did not not let me feel embarrassed and assured me this was by no means the worse she’d ever seen. She did a very good job of removing the stains and recommend I avoid my colored mouthwash since one of the ingredients could be the culprit! She was kind, gracious, and professional. That stands out to me. I don’t love having people work in my mouth, but I hope I get her again next time!

Lately, I’ve been taking a few moments to assess how I am doing physically and emotionally. I am not sick, just not 100%, and I am trying to find little ways to rest and feel my best. This season is difficult, but I knew it would be. I’ve noticed that a little kindness and gratitude go a long way, and God is sustaining me. So, while my body is a little depleted, my heart is full.

Matthew 11:28-30 says, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” Thank You, Jesus!

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God, thanks for taking such good care of me! When I am running low on energy, You are my strength and joy. When I need more time, You take care of my schedule. Help me do my best so You receive the glory. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: When you want to rest but still need to get things done, how do you handle the stress? Do you find it easy to rest in the Lord, or do you battle it out and struggle on your own?

Task: Review your to-do list and remove whatever is not needed today. Remember to pray and trust God, but also breathe, drink some water, stretch, and go to bed on time. Lean on the Lord, and He will sustain you!

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

Finding Grace #550

You may have seen the acronym GRACE as God’s Riches At Christ’s Expense. Grace is also God’s unmerited favor, or God doing for us what we cannot.

I find grace overflowing with God’s love, joy, peace, blessings, mercy, power, provision, protection, and wisdom. Thank You, Jesus!

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

This was a pretty good week overall, though I did not sleep well and felt a little depleted. I did everything I needed to do, by God’s grace and help!

The weather was definitely cooler this week. I saw my breath one morning walking into work! I am guessing all the Monarch butterflies are gone for the season. I will be sure to keep an eye out next year!

On Monday, I left work early to go to an orthodontic appointment. I got new mouth trays, including some for the top, too! I am making good progress, though I will have to wait a little longer to get the MARPE metal device out of my mouth. This is because of the extensive nature of my expansion. It is better to let it sit a little longer so my facial bones don’t try to revert back to how they were. I am okay with that since I want the best outcome!

On Thursday, I helped host an Alpha table at church. This will go until December and we discuss spiritual questions in a safe place. I have enjoyed my group and met a widow who needed some support. I am grateful for how God is using me!

On Friday, Lydia had off school but woke up sick. I ended up going to work for a few hours but was able to leave and take care of her. I am glad she didn’t miss any classes because she is still sick! She is not vomiting anymore but still has a fever. She will probably have to skip her Congress event tomorrow, which is a bummer after working so hard on her topics. But, God’s grace is sufficient!

Today, I was on-call so had to go into work for one patient. Later, I made some calls and made some blueberry muffins. Tonight, we are watching a little television. Lydia finally made it from her bed to the couch and ate a little food! Hopefully, she will sleep well and wake up more rested tomorrow, though I think she will need another day to fully recover.

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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)!