Category: Being Gracious

Posted on in Being Gracious, Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Wisdom

Finding Grace #497

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!

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

This week was both hectic and heavy, but there was still a bit of joy and grace.

I have had a tension headache for several days, which may, in part, just be related to various stressors. Nothing unusual, just lots of things all at once. Mowing, cleaning, studying, parenting, work, etc. I saw the chiropractor on Monday and am starting to feel a bit better now.

I was saddened and disturbed about Charlie Kirk’s death, and it is awful all around, not to mention the internet comments, which I mostly avoided. While I don’t know that much about him, I can understand the element of grief. It made me want to vomit when I heard the news. I did not watch the actual footage, and I probably never will. Each person has their own perspective, so I don’t need to add my two cents. I will share what one pastor said, however: Grieve. Share Truth boldly. Proclaim Christ. Love. Do not fear. Walk by faith.

We had a new baby girl born this week on our team! We now have two ladies out on maternity leave, and the first one out brought in her adorable 2.5-month-old twin girls. I got to hold one of them, and we made lots of smiley faces at each other. I can’t wait to meet the new little baby sometime, too!

Work itself was busy as usual. I had some time to prepare for a talk I’m giving on Monday. We are shifting things around for coverage, too. I stayed a couple of extra hours on Friday to help out. I’m grateful that God always helps me get things done!

Yesterday, my mother-in-law came to visit! We went shopping and out to eat. We also walked around some flower gardens and did some fall activities. We always have fun when she comes! It should be a relaxing weekend, which is just what I need.

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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, Perfectionism, Perseverance, Personality, Pivot, Wisdom

A Few Good Quotes

I usually finish writing my Wednesday post on Tuesday evening, and I usually make it my main priority. But, occasionally, I need to focus on other things. Sometimes, it is just good to take a break and rest. This week has been busy, so it’s a bit of both!

So, for this week’s post, I am keeping it simple. I decided to share a few quotes I have been collecting and just give a few insights and let you mull on them as well! I do not remember all the sources, sorry, but if I find them, I will link them.

The first three are from some excellent sermons on the Armor of God (Ephesians 6:10-18). This is the first in the series, but they have all been good!

Our shield of faith is not just for protection; it is also for advancement. We don’t just hold it up when attacks come, but we can “hide” behind it while taking ground in Jesus’ Name. For me, this is a mental game-changer. It reminds me I have the responsibility to take action.

Faith is acting like God is telling the truth.  Essentially, our enemy’s strategy is to use anything – good or bad – to make us distrust God. (God can use those to bring Him glory and us good.)  So, when we believe God and do what He says, we fight against the lies.

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Hope is when your present borrows strength and hope from you future. No matter how grand, the things of this world will always disappoint us. But, Jesus is our Living Hope and our future is secure!

God did not redeem us only to abandon us. I don’t recall the source, but it does remind me of the line, “God did not bring you this far, only to bring you this far.” Lies can creep in and make us doubt God’s love and presence. But, He is with us and for us!

Preach the gospel to yourself daily. Remind yourself that apart from King Jesus, you are dust. Not to be outdone, check out this line, attributed to Jonathan Edwards: “You contribute nothing to your salvation except the sin that made it necessary.” Well, that’s enough to keep me humble!

Slow days still count. I have been staying up late to get things done, and as you know, you can’t do that for long without feeling it. For the last week or so, I have felt a little run-down and have been intentionally trying to rest. I took a nap on Sunday and am being kind to myself by ending my post… here. 😉 Thanks for reading!

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Heavenly Father, thanks for giving us wisdom and guidance. May we live out our faith with boldness. Help us to know when to move forward and when to rest. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Question: Have you heard any other good quotes lately?

Task: Think about the quotes above and how you might apply them to your life. I’d love to know your thoughts!

Posted on in Being Gracious, Gratitude, Journey of Grace, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Personality, Pivot, Prayer, Wisdom

On Finding Balance

It’s that time of year again! School, church, and community activities are ramping up. I don’t know about you, but I can quickly become overwhelmed with all the expectations thrust upon me, including the perceived pressure to say ‘yes’ to everything.

As Paul wrote, we must “redeem the time because the days are evil” (see Ephesians 5:16). Enough is going on in the world that we don’t have time to waste. Jesus is coming soon!

It seems the idea of finding balance is a myth. At best, we can manage competing priorities, but still one or another will always be at odds with the rest, demanding more of our time. We can’t do it all in our own strength. Everything we truly need (and need to do) is in Jesus.

I heard someone say that being fully present is one key to enjoying life as it comes. For example, when at work, do your best there. At home, stay fully committed to family life. If at the beach, be at the beach, not on your phone playing video games. In any situation, we can be ‘all in’ wherever we are. It does not mean we aren’t planning a few steps ahead, but rather we’re not distracted.

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Not too long ago, I received a couple of extra requests for my time. I normally enjoy these activities and using my skills. However, I am still holding back a little to ensure I have the energy and clarity to attend to Lydia and my other obligations.

I asked God what to do but was still on the fence until I prayerfully ran my ideas by someone. She asked me a few questions, and I explained my hesitation. We went through the ideas of good, better, best. Just because something is good, doesn’t mean it is the best.

I mentioned previous experiences with saying yes to too much, and how it made me less available for other things that actually were God’s best for me. She and I talked a little more, and she felt I could say no to the new requests. I had peace after that, knowing God would provide the right people in His time.

No joke, the next night, Lydia needed my 100% focus and energy. She had homework questions and was having a mini meltdown. If I were not home, she would have been stuck until I returned, and we would have been up late into the night. As it was, I was able to calm her down and help her find a resolution. Whew!

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I’m so thankful Jesus knows our hearts and set an example for us. He demonstrated the need to take time away for solitude, rest, and prayer. We cannot hear our Heavenly Father if we are always running around or heading out the door!

That does not mean we never sign up to help people. Serving others is so important. We have an opportunity for growth and refinement. As we come together, we can work through any conflict. We learn how to show up even when it is difficult or inconvenient. For me, knowing the difference starts with having a good attitude. And that is so much easier to maintain when I am well-rested and able to focus on Jesus.

The idea behind all of this – whatever decisions we make – is to be quick to move, but not run ahead of God. We move in step with Jesus. When He speeds up, so do we. When He slows down or leads us to rest, then we follow.

Balance may be an illusion, but Jesus is the real deal. He knows exactly what we need and when. Either way, may we stay close enough to hear His whisper. Don’t make Him shout to get your attention! 😉

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Heavenly Father, thanks for answering my prayers and giving me wisdom and discernment. I pray each opportunity will have me pointing people back to You. May my ‘yeses’ be all in with a good attitude! And may I have peace when I need to say no. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Do you notice a shift in your mood when you have too many commitments? What would it feel like to pare down? Would you find more peace, joy, and rest?

Tasks: List out your top priorities and ask God if anything needs to change. Check in with Him before adding anything new to your list!

Posted on in Being Gracious, Food and Nutrition, Gratitude, Kindness, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Parenting

Let Us Salad

On Sunday, Lydia and I served at church during a lunch gathering for the Older Adults Still In Service (OASIS) ministry. This is for seniors to enjoy fellowship and implies that although they likely have retired, they are not done living, giving, serving, etc. God still has a good plan and purpose for each person until He calls them Home.

Lydia has a heart for the elderly, so I arranged a time for us to help out. My goal is to let her experience various ways to serve. We really enjoyed it! We set up tables and chairs, then added place settings, and more. Later, we picked up garbage, cleaned the tables, put away the chairs, swept, and so on. We did not do it for recognition, but many people thanked us. I think we will do it again!

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The potluck meal’s theme was “salads,” and people brought a variety of dishes. I recognized a retired NDSU nutrition professor, and we agreed that some were definitely from an old church cookbook somewhere! 🙂 We sat with her and enjoyed talking with all the seniors around us. We met some new people but also saw several we knew, including a few who have watched Lydia grow over the years.

In the Midwest, it seems just about anything can pass for a salad. We had taco salad, potato salad, macaroni salad, cucumber salad, multiple jello-type salads, fruit salad (with whipped cream, of course), a couple more dessert salads, and one token green salad. Many of the older adults took home leftovers, which made me happy as a Registered Dietitian.

After everyone ate, there was some worship time followed by a short sermon. We sang several hymns, and then the pastor asked us if we wanted another salad. We were all pleasantly full, but he went on to talk about the “let us salads” of Scripture.

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Here a few:

Romans 13:12 (NIV) says, “The night is nearly over; the day is almost here. So let us put aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light.”

2 Corinthians 7:1 (NIV) says, “Therefore, since we have these promises, dear friends, let us purify ourselves from everything that contaminates body and spirit, perfecting holiness out of reverence for God.”

Hebrews 4:16 (NIV) says, “Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.”

Galatians 5:25-26 (NIV) says, “Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other.”

There are even some “let us nots!”

Galatians 6:9-10 (NIV) says, “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.”

1 Thessalonians 5:6 (NIV) says, “So then, let us not be like others, who are asleep, but let us be awake and sober.

Well, I will never look at the phrase “let us” the same way again. It was a creative tie-in and pun, as well as a fun memory for us while we helped others. Let us spur each other on to good works!

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God, thanks for helping us spread Your lovingkindness to others. May we serve with joy and a grateful heart. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: What is your favorite type of salad? Where do you like to volunteer?

Task: Read through more “let us” phrases. Some are just part of the narrative, but some of them are very applicable to us today!

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.

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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 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.

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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.

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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!

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

Finding Grace #485

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!

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

This week was a great week! We had a perfect mix of hard work and relaxation, rain and sunshine, cooler weather and heat.

On Tuesday, Lydia had volleyball camp and is feeling more comfortable.

I worked two days and then had the rest of the week off! I kept busy at the office but mostly helped my coworkers after I was done with my own patients.

On Wednesday, I was off to prepare for a trip. On Thursday, Juneteenth, I was off anyway, so we flew to Nashville for a family reunion (just a central spot we hadn’t been to yet).

Several people came to the reunion. This includes my dad’s family from all over the US, plus Greece and England. We also invited some sweet Florida friends who have been so kind to our family. The more the merrier! We went downtown, to the Zoo, ate lots of yummy food, played games, and so much more.

Before we left, my washing machine stopped working. I am hoping it is an easy fix, but I could not figure it out. My family offered ideas over the phone, but I ended up asking my neighbor to check it out. However, it will have to wait until next week due to the timing. Thankfully, I have plenty of clothes and towels, so it is not an emergency!

Yesterday, several parts of North Dakota had tornadoes. I don’t know all the details but there were some damages and a few deaths. So sad. I am grateful for my neighbors watching my house and glad we were safe (far away).

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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, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Parenting, Personality

Introverts and Ice Cream

A few days ago, I watched a social media post for introverts about how to meet people. It was so funny, and I laughed when Kelsey Pomeroy said, “Stop trying to make the friends, and let the friends make you. Set yourself up to be claimed, adopted, and befriended by an extrovert…”

Her idea was that introverts can “advertise” their interests to find people with whom they can connect. For instance, you may carry a book on a topic you like; people who enjoy that book might want to talk about it. You could wear a shirt representing your favorite sports team or put stickers on your water bottle to find like-minded people.

We all give off signals, but we may not be aware of what messages we are sending. Putting headphones in says you don’t want to talk, while making eye contact and smiling implies you are open and available.

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I am an introvert — I am not shy or socially awkward. I love getting to know people on a deeper level, but sadly, it can be difficult since people don’t take the time to have deeper conversations. I am quiet and appreciate calm places without excess noise or commotion (like really loud music, flashy lights, or crazy traffic). I am happy to be out of the spotlight, but the flip side is that I must guard against feeling unimportant, overlooked, or forgotten. 

Don’t feel sorry for me, I am okay with it! In fact, I have a deal with God. He directs my steps, and I go where He leads. If He has something for me to do, I don’t want to miss it. But, if He doesn’t tell me to get involved, I can do what I want… I can go home, lol!

I love solitude and can easily stay by myself for a couple of days. (I am totally fine when Lydia is at camp or out with others!) The key difference is that I also like being around people. Sometimes, I will go to the mall or bookstore to make sure I don’t isolate myself too much.

Because I am content to chill on my own without much fanfare, sometimes I have to push myself to join a group event. If I am excited for an activity, then nothing will stop me. But, if I am on the fence, a personal invitation is the golden ticket! I feel included and already have a friend! In some cases, I give myself an out: If no one invites me and I don’t really want to go, then I am off the hook!

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Still, there are plenty of times I need to go somewhere and don’t know anyone. In those situations, I make up my mind to get through it and find someone who may need some help or encouragement. I specifically make eye contact and smile to make sure I am approachable. I go with a servant heart and try to be the friend I’d like to have.

I also find if I am included in the planning of an event, then I feel more comfortable. This is probably because I know what to expect, but I also try to make others navigate the situation.

At work, I have no problems, as our culture is to greet each other in the halls. I meet new patients all throughout the week. We already have a set topic to discuss, but I invite them into my office and jump right in!

As you may guess, Lydia is a lot like me. As such, I can guide her on how to avoid some classic pitfalls. Last night, I dropped her off at a 1.5-hour volleyball camp, and she was so nervous! I prayed for her but knew exactly how she felt. Thankfully, she came home saying she was glad she went. We talked about being introverts while enjoying some ice cream. I’m so glad I could share more about how God made us. There are challenges, but pushing through the awkwardness is still important!

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Father God, thanks for making me according to Your purpose and plan. My identity is found in You. Thanks for helping me confidently move forward and serve others. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Are you an introvert or an extrovert? Do you find it easy or difficult to make friends?

Task: If you are an introvert, try subtly advertising your interests. Who knows, you might find a new bestie! Remember to make eye contact and smile. When in doubt, keep your eyes open to see if you can encourage someone. Most introverts are really good at that!

Posted on in Being Gracious, Gratitude, Journey of Grace, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Parenting, Perseverance, Personality, Wisdom, Worship

When You Feel Like An Appendix

Have you been ‘feeling like an appendix’ lately? Yes, the little organ we don’t quite understand! There is still a lot of scientific debate about the role of the appendix in the body. Spiritually, the Church is called the Body of Christ, and the ‘mouth’ and ‘hands’ often get a lot more attention, unlike those working behind the scenes.

Feeling like an appendix is my description for how it feels when it seems no one gets me. 😅 I may refer to it when I feel a little lost or forgotten. You, too, may feel like a footnote or an unread supplement at the end of a book (another appendix!). But take heart. God notices. He has a good plan and purpose for you!

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Next time you feel like an appendix, check out the end of 1 Chronicles 23, which explains the Levites’ duties. Verses 28-31 are below.

“The duty of the Levites was to help Aaron’s descendants in the service of the temple of the Lord: to be in charge of the courtyards, the side rooms, the purification of all sacred things and the performance of other duties at the house of God. 29 They were in charge of the bread set out on the table, the special flour for the grain offerings, the thin loaves made without yeast, the baking and the mixing, and all measurements of quantity and size. 30 They were also to stand every morning to thank and praise the Lord. They were to do the same in the evening 31 and whenever burnt offerings were presented to the Lord on the Sabbaths, at the New Moon feasts and at the appointed festivals. They were to serve before the Lord regularly in the proper number and in the way prescribed for them.”

I have read (or skimmed?) these words before, but they stood out to me this time. I saw that basically, the Levites here, who helped their priestly relatives, were in charge of cleaning and baking for the Temple every day!

Sure, they also worshipped God, taught His word, and acted as guards, among other things, but many likely did rather mundane work. It was not always exciting or glamorous, but they were called and set apart for sacred things. It truly must have been an honor, but also a little boring sometimes. Still, their work was important and would have been missed if they stopped.

In fact, without the daily routines of cleaning and baking, the Temple sacrifices would not run smoothly, which would affect the entire nation’s worship and relationship with God!

I find reading about the Levites’ work fascinating and even a little freeing. Surely, God noticed their work, and He notices yours and mine. That said, it is good for me to exhibit humility regardless of my actions. This has been described as not thinking less of myself, but thinking of myself less! It’s not all about me!

Today, you might feel like an appendix or an afterthought, overlooked and underwhelmed. You might be tasked with childcare, caring for elderly parents, making meals, mowing the lawn, paying bills, meeting deadlines, etc., not to mention keeping up with other commitments outside the home. 

Yet, we can humbly and cheerfully do our best and find joy in our tasks, knowing it all matters. God notices and loves you dearly! Indeed, we should work not for human praise, but to please Him. He is the One who calls us, sets us apart, and makes all things right.

So, let’s worship and serve God wholeheartedly and with joy. Our efforts sometimes feel thankless, but we can’t live by our feelings. God will reward your faithfulness one day. Don’t give up!

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God, thanks for Your love and grace! Thanks for seeing me and calling me to serve You. Help me not get stuck in self-pity. Help me do my best and keep moving forward. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: When did you last feel like an ‘appendix’? What did you do about it?

Tasks: Read more about the Levites and know you are not alone. Set realistic expectations and adjust your attitude, if needed. Give it all to God, and remember… His calling and purpose for your life are good!

Posted on in Being Gracious, Gratitude, Journey of Grace, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Parenting, Perseverance, Prayer, Travel, Wisdom, Worship

Trusting When We Cannot See

This season is full of opportunities to trust God. Often, we have to make a decision when we don’t know the full picture of what He is doing. It seems God asks us to trust Him at a new level every so often (if not daily). Yet, we don’t have to lay aside our questions or logic. Trusting God does not mean ‘blind faith.’ We may not fully see what He is doing, but we can see that He has a good track record!

We can trust everything He does. Even when we can’t quite see the full picture in our own lives, we can trace His faithfulness through Scripture. The main thing is not to get stuck on our questions or logic… in order to trust, we still have to take action!

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“When you can’t see God’s hand, trust His heart.” — Emily P. Freeman

I came across this quote again recently, and it struck me a little differently than before. Previously, I focused on the word hand in terms of a physical body part. This time, however, I thought of a deck of cards, where hands are dealt. Depending on the game played, we may not see all the cards at once! God does not play games with our hearts, and we can trust His. 

God also doesn’t ask us to trust Him for no reason. He loves us and has the best things in store for us. As we see in Ephesians 2:10 (NIV), “…we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” We just have to walk them out. 

God continually shows me His faithfulness. Yesterday marked two months since my mom finished her race and entered Heaven. It has been difficult, but I am grateful that people are still encouraging us, especially my dad. Thank you!!

Free Door Building photo and picture

Lydia is going on a school trip to Washington, DC, next week, and although it was my idea to send her, I need to trust God for her safety, health, provision, etc. I know she will have a great time and will make many memories as she spreads her wings. Thankfully, she already has experience traveling and being apart from me, thanks to summer camp the last few years.

I am also trusting God with summer plans and some opportunities in the fall. Remember, I am a planner and like to get my ducks in a row! But, sometimes, I just have to wait and have faith. In time, I will know more details. God always provides them on time, though in my humanity, I like to know early! 🙂

This season, I am reminded of how God cares for all His birds. I have woken up to the robins, sparrows, purple house finches, and others singing their songs of praise. I have seen a Northern Flicker grace my yard for a few minutes, too. If they can trust God to provide for them amid the uncertain rain, wind, and various temperatures, then I can too!

While waiting for God, I can worship and keep praying for wisdom and discernment. I can take the first step without worrying about making a mistake. I can rest knowing He will redirect me as needed. I can even “borrow faith” from someone else’s journey until mine strengthens!

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God, thanks for all Your loving care and provision. You are so good to me. Help me trust You more, even in uncertain times. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Where are you in your faith journey? How can you trust God and keep moving forward?

Task: Listen to the song, “Sparrows,” by Cory Asbury. Think about how much God loves you and takes care of you!