Category: Parenting

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

Finding Grace #394

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 normal week, but I felt God working all around me!

Work went well, and I had some good laughs with my coworkers. I enjoyed a walk on my lunch break one day. The weather was gorgeous, and yesterday, I took the picture above at a park after work. I’m glad because today is a little overcast and rainy.

On Wednesday, I met with my group at church. We had good discussion on who Jesus is; it was so cool to hear that he fulfilled over 300 prophecies and changed the world. Afterward, I talked with a new friend about some medical conditions similar to what Dave faced. I encouraged her and prayed for her and her husband. I’m grateful that God can use me!

It was Homecoming week, so Lydia went to the Friday night football game with friends. They had fun wearing all their Mustang school gear and putting on some paint in blue and orange. It’s fun seeing her step into the excitement!

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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 Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Gratitude, Kindness, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Parenting, Wisdom

Finding Grace #393

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 Sparrow Bird photo and picture

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

This week was full of several good activities!

On Monday evening, I went to the chiropractor for a routine adjustment. It’s incredible to see how well my body is holding each adjustment. My back sometimes gets sore, which is normal, but I have felt SO much better over the last year. Thank You, Jesus!

This week, I worked with an inspiring WWII Veteran. He is nearing 100 and was a POW before turning twenty years old. He was captured in the Battle of the Bulge and then went to a German prison camp. He earned several medals during his time of service. He is a true living legend, and I couldn’t help but think of the History he represents. Thankfully, he is still going strong, and I am honored to have met him!

On Wednesday, I helped out with a new program at church called Alpha. Lydia was at youth group, so the timing was perfect. I met several people and look forward to getting to know them more!

Lydia brought home her viola yesterday. She is learning a lot already and had fun showing me each part of then instrument. She even played a little song for me!

Lydia and I did some yardwork yesterday evening. She mowed and I pulled weeds, as we enjoyed the cool, calm weather. As the darkness settled in, I turned on the garage lights so we could work a little longer. Unfortunately, a little sparrow flew in and would not leave! We tried really hard to get it out, but I think it was scared or confused. It stayed overnight, left the next morning after we left the garage open for a bit. Whew!

This morning, Lydia and I attended a church conference. We enjoyed good food, fellowship, an encouraging message, and games. We made some new friends and caught up with others. It was encouraging! Then, at lunch, I even got to hold an 11-week-old baby. It was such a joy to soak up all the snuggles.

This afternoon, Lydia went with a friend’s family to the Bison game. NDSU won, and Lydia had fun walking around and cheering them on. Then, they went to the mall. (I enjoyed the quiet time at home and was able to get a few things done.) It was a good 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 Books and Movies I Like, Miscellaneous, Parenting, Perseverance, Prayer, Wisdom, Worship

Putting On God’s Armor

As you may recall, last week I mentioned Lydia was reading through her Bible chapter by chapter. Last week, she read the Apostle Paul’s letter to Christian believers in the city of Ephesus during the Roman Empire. And, together we discussed it to make sure she really connected with God’s truth.

Ephesians Chapter 6 is all about spiritual warfare. Paul writes about putting on God’s armor daily; for me, a Roman soldier comes to mind. I’m sure there are many books, sermons, and articles discussing them in depth!

But, for our purposes, I wanted to do something hands-on. That way, Lydia would remember the lesson, be able to apply it, and “stand firm” in her faith!

As we reviewed Ephesians 6:10-18, I told Lydia to stand up and put on God’s armor. Yes, she had fun acting it out! The belt of truth is first (v. 14), and perhaps it is first because it went over a tunic before the heavy armor was added. But, we decided to save it for last… keep reading!

Next up… the breastplate of righteousness. Lydia acted like she was putting on a shirt, and then crossed her heart with her arms. I asked her what a breastplate would be used for. “Protection” was her response, and that is true. But, I also think of Proverbs 4:23, which says, “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” We talked about our emotions, distractions, and holding offense. Also, I mentioned how Lysa TerKeurst says, “Emotions are indicators, not dictators.” Emotions give us clues, but don’t run the show.

Then, Lydia put on shoes representing the “readiness given by the gospel of peace” (v. 15). What does that mean, we wondered? I had some ideas, but Lydia started walking about with her imaginary shoes. She focused on bringing peace to those she sees every day; I also was thinking about the gospel which means “good news.” So, we are holy ambassadors, spreading the Good News of peace (see Isaiah 52:7 and 2 Corinthians 5:20). Ultimately, Jesus brings us peace with God, peace with others, and peace with ourselves.

“In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one” (v. 16). This verse was a lot of fun. Lydia held up her arm imagining a shield attached. She thought about it for a moment and then relaxed her arm. As soon as I saw my opportunity, I threw a small toy at her. She jumped and defensively raised her arm in shock. “Why did you do that?!” she asked. I explained that I was trying to prove a point and catch her off guard. We then discussed what a flaming dart (or arrow) might mean. She quickly realized that the fire comes from the pit of Hell, and we must always be prepared for Satan’s attacks.

We moved on to the helmet of salvation next (v. 17). This seems easier to understand than others, as a soldier would have a warrior mentality. Romans 12:2 came to mind, which says, “And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.” We must be alert to Satan’s lies and constantly remind ourselves of God’s love, grace, truth, peace, joy, etc. We cannot afford to forget all He has done for us!

The Sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God (v. 17), is the only weapon listed that is both our defense and offense. Lydia and I have previously discussed noticing lies or myths that would discredit Jesus or make us doubt Him. We then can attack the lies and replace them with Scripture verses. This book is particularly helpful because it matches God’s word with our emotions.

Now, let’s go back to the belt of truth. I asked Lydia why we saved this for last. She got it right away. “Because God’s truth holds everything else together!” John 14:6 mentions that Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life, and Colossians 1:17 records how all things are held together in Him. We cannot be spiritually strong without Jesus!

Finally, Paul writes to keep alert and keep praying. We can’t be lazy or sleepy. We must do all we can to stand strong and stand firm in Christ. On guard!

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Heavenly Father, thanks for giving us all the tools we need for a successful life, including spiritual armor. Help us use it effectively as we live for You and obey. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Have you ever thought much about our spiritual armor? What components are familiar or easy to use, and which ones do you need to dust off?

Tasks: To read more, click here for the search results related to Ephesians 6 on my blog. 🙂

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Gratitude, Miscellaneous, Parenting, Wisdom

Finding Grace #392

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 Coneflowers Flowers photo and picture

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

This week was full but fun! We started off with a total relaxation weekend for Labor Day. I took a nap, did some reading, and made some treats for a birthday at work. Just what I needed!

 We had a four-day workweek, which included the birthday celebration, some meetings, and a training class. So, it went pretty fast! I didn’t have as much pressure toward deadlines, which was nice, too.

On Thursday, I took Lydia to the grocery store. The twist is that she made all the choices and paid! She’s learning about value and costs, and it was a good exercise to see how to plan and stick to a budget. Knowing that the money is limited makes us consider our choices. She had to compare brands and expiration dates, weigh produce, and more. It went so well that we will be doing it regularly!

The grocery trip helped us be creative with the pantry foods we sometimes forget about. We talked about our values and goals related to money (on Lydia’s level). One bonus is that she saw parallels with her clothes – what’s worth the money and when it’s better to choose the basic brands vs. name brands. 🙂

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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, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Parenting, Pivot, Wisdom, Worship

By Grace, Through Faith

The ultimate privilege and responsibility I have as a parent is to influence Lydia for God, encourage her faith in Him, and show her how to walk with Jesus. I am proud of her spiritual growth as I disciple her relationship with the Almighty.

Lydia has been reading her Bible just about every day for several months. She has worked through the Gospel of John; 1st, 2nd, and 3rd John; Galatians; Revelation, and others. I loved her commentary on Revelation (talking about scary dragons and Hell): “Well, that’s a great way to start off my day!” She had insightful questions about the imagery and end-time events, too.

This week, Lydia started Ephesians. She aims to read about a chapter per day. Mostly, she reads the material, thinks about it, and then we talk about it.

I love Ephesians, and it has been fun to hear Lydia’s thoughts, too. Sometimes, she understands the material right away, and sometimes, she understandably needs a little help.

Free Ocean Sunset photo and picture

Now, parts of Ephesians 1 are a little wordy. It has lots of adjectives and run-on sentences. But it’s also jam-packed with all the spiritual blessings we have as followers of Jesus. Mind-blowing, really!

On Sunday, we discussed Ephesians 2, and I unexpectedly got a little emotional as I read some of my favorite verses with Lydia. Ephesians 2:8-9 says, “For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.”

I asked Lydia for her take on those verses. She gave me her best shot, that we don’t have to earn salvation, we just have it through faith. It is a gift of God’s grace. Not bad for an eleven-year-old!

Then, I asked her, “Why do you think God only requires us to have faith? Why wouldn’t He make us do something for salvation?” Of course, one answer is that we could never be perfect enough.

But then, I heard myself explaining, “You know how sometimes an online company might hold a contest? Often, if you want to enter, you have to like and share their post on social media. So, I could enter if I wanted. But, what if you didn’t have a phone then, and Tappa didn’t have social media. And Lily (my toddler niece) wouldn’t even know a contest was happening. Thus, if I was one of the only ones to enter, I could brag about my good fortune. Everyone else would be disqualified; they would have no chance.“

I have read those verses so many times, but they took on a different meaning on Sunday. I thought of any family, friends, coworkers, etc. whom that fake contest would have disqualified (no social media). And, in the context of salvation, it made me want to share the gospel even more!

Immediately, I understood a whole new level of God’s perfect grace. Teary-eyed, I thought of how kind and wise He is to make coming to Him a level playing field. It doesn’t matter where you live, what you’ve done, or your background. No favoritism exists for a certain race, skin color, or language. ALL are welcome and invited.

 We can never be good enough to earn salvation; because of Jesus, we don’t need to. He did His part; now believing and accepting His sacrifice is our part.

Yes, God took all of the requirements of salvation and put them on Jesus. The weight of the world’s sin was a heavy burden! And, all we have to do is believe and receive the free gift.

Now, as I reminded Lydia, FREE simply means ‘no cost to you.’ Indeed, salvation was very costly to Jesus, who paid with His life and blood. May we never take it for granted!

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God, thanks for the gift of salvation through Jesus. Thanks that we don’t have to earn it but can accept it by grace through faith. Help us live out Your gift of grace every day. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Have you accepted this most generous gift of salvation? Are you living according to God’s grace, or are you still trying to do it all on your own?

Tasks: Read through Ephesians 2 and meditate on it. Note any verses that jump out at you and pray about the application in your life.

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Food and Nutrition, Gratitude, Miscellaneous, Parenting

Finding Grace #390

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 Dahlia Flower photo and picture

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

This week was a little hectic but good! Lydia and I had several events that took planning ahead and felt ‘big.’ I had to keep praying, working hard, and trusting God. I also took several deeeeep breaths. But, it all turned out really well.

 On Sunday, we volunteered at church in the morning (greeting at the kids ministry) and in the evening (an outdoor women’s event). We had good food and saw some friends. I thought I would be really tired after a full day of serving, but I was actually energized!

On Monday, Lydia babysat for a little baby all on her own. She is very responsible and good with little ones, but I was a little nervous anyway since we had not previously met him. Lydia had a blast and entertained him for two hours. She even earned a few bucks!

Lydia started middle school this week! She had fun and already has three favorite teachers, so I think that’s a good sign! We are excited for this next season.

Work was good but fairly busy and full of problem-solving. Nearly all of my patients came this week, but it made me happy to be using so many of my skills. I also had fun attending a yoga session with my coworkers on our lunch break! Then, I worked a couple extra hours on Friday and also went in today for two hours (my on-call weekend). Whew!

My mother-in-law came to visit this week, as she sometimes does when I am on-call. She took Lydia shopping, and then I joined them for a few other activities. We always have fun together and have some more things planned for 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 Gratitude, Journey of Grace, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Parenting, Perseverance

This Is The Day

Well, it’s back-to-school season for many of us! I love seeing all the first-day-of-school pictures posted by all my friends and family online.

Lydia is starting middle school tomorrow and will be in a new building this year! I’m glad she can walk to school, just down the street.

We went to her school last night (Tuesday) to find her classes, meet her teachers, and try out her locker. Lydia has classes all over the building, but overall, it should be a good experience. We saw some of her friends, too!

The evening was a blessing because Lydia was a little nervous at dinner, and I encouraged her to make the best of it. But, later when we returned home, we both felt at peace. Her teachers were so friendly! She is right where she needs to be.

Lydia has been looking forward to this day for years. Middle school is an exciting new step, but there will also be new challenges, boundaries, and consequences. I pray she continues drawing close to the Lord and relies on Him for wisdom, courage, and grace!

As you may guess, my heart is also being stretched as Lydia becomes more independent. She has taken on more responsibility around the house but also is becoming her own person outside our home. Thankfully, it’s a normal transition for both of us!

Free Lockers School photo and picture

Considering all the above, I was reminded of an article I read a couple of years ago during the peak COVID years. You can read it here.

Essentially, it is a reminder that each of us was born for “such a time as this” (see Esther 4:14). We can trust God even in uncertainty because none of it surprises Him.

God has a specific plan and purpose for Lydia, but also for you and me. Of course, each generation faces its own trials, but from the beginning of time, each day is already covered with an overwhelming abundance of grace. Life can be difficult, but He equips us to fulfill our calling.

It is natural to want to shield our loved ones from pain and make it easy on them. However, I am reminded that pain is not inevitable. I can’t protect Lydia every moment, but I can trust God. Pain can become a pathway to growth in Him, and His mercies are new every morning.

So whether you are facing middle school or even middle age, rejoice. Today is a day of blessing. God sees you and is for you. He has your back and knows your heart. Let Him direct your path!

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God, thanks for carrying us to this point in time and for all Your blessings along the way. Help us to grow in this new day and season. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Question: What are you looking forward to in this coming season?

Task: When you feel overwhelmed, remember THIS is the day the Lord has made. This is the year, the season, the month, the week He designed for You. Rejoice and trust in Him!

Posted on in Gratitude, Journey of Grace, Miscellaneous, Parenting, Perseverance, Pivot

The End of An Era

This week, Lydia and I are contemplating and celebrating her last days at the YMCA. 

For the last four years, the Y has been a staple in our lives. And now, Lydia has aged out. The transition was necessary, as she is going to middle school in a couple of weeks!

The Y has been a big blessing to us, though Lydia had to make many adjustments. We have seen it at God’s provision and as a proving ground.

Free Crayons Coloring Book photo and picture

We could have skipped the Y this summer, but I wanted to ensure we had a transition point. I didn’t want her staying home alone ALL summer, so I pushed Lydia to make the best of it during the school year so we had the option for summer. Of course, that meant she was the oldest kid there all year!

I encouraged Lydia to mentor the little kids, perhaps like a big sister. I coached her through social issues and asked her to put up with a lot of yelling and heckling. She loves little kids, but it was a stretch for an only child who appreciates peace and quiet! Her POTS and tinnitus was an extra challenge, but she was able to manage.

Sometimes, I spoke to the Y leaders about ways to cope, but they didn’t have much space to discipline the kids. Thus, Lydia and I had lots of character-building talks!

Over the years, Lydia enjoyed many things at the Y that would have been difficult to do otherwise. She learned about different cultures and music, developed her artistic talent, played games and sports, went on field trips, went swimming, and so much more. She ate lots of good meals and snacks, too!

Free Kid Child photo and picture

Lydia’s last day was supposed to be Tuesday, but due to me missing an email, it ended up being Monday. Mainly, she came unprepared for a field trip, and instead of making her go and sit out from the activities, I took her home for the day. 

Understandably, Lydia was a little sad and teary-eyed. While it has been a struggle at times, it has also been a source of stability and familiarity for her. She had some great leaders and made some good friends. It was a growing experience, and she has excelled.

We live nearby to the Y location at her elementary school, but I didn’t have time to run her gear back and forth, or I would have been late to work. So, we made a quick decision to call it good! (I knew I’d pay either way.)

Thankfully, Lydia has learned the ins and outs of staying home alone. While I don’t always like this option and keep it to a minimum, it is necessary at times. My mom has been good to text her during the day sometimes (and Lydia texts her friends). In fact, Lydia feels a special connection and responsibility to check in with those she loves. That’s a bonus!

Free Chalk Sidewalk Chalk photo and picture

As we reflect on all this, I cannot help but be so grateful for God leading us to the Y. Lydia has been there every day after school and on most school-out days or holidays. Having her at the Y has ensured that I can work more hours. I love my job at the VA but would not have been able to meet the demands as it has evolved.

And during the two peak COVID years, the Y was vital. I never missed one day of work because the Y stayed open! Without this consistent childcare option, I would have had to quit working (as many people did). Most other daycare options closed, but the Y prioritized children of ‘essential workers.’ Not having the Y could have been disastrous for me financially, but God protected us from getting sick and made a way for us. All glory to Him!

So, while this feels like the end of an era, it’s really a new beginning. We had challenges along the way, but God was faithful. I know He also will be with us as we keep moving forward. He always is!

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God, thanks so much for all your grace, provision, and protection! Thanks for carrying us all this time. As we take our next steps, help us keep leaning on and listening to You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Can you see God’s hand at work as you reflect on the last 3-5 years? How has He carried you? How can you keep moving forward?

Tasks: Reflect on your journey with the Lord thus far. Make a list of all you have to be thankful for. Reconnect with Him when your path looks dim. He will come through for you!

 

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

Finding Grace #386

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 Zinnia Flowers photo and picture

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

This week felt crazy at first but ended well. Mostly work kept me on my toes early on.  But, the Lord was with me and helped me through it. Thank You, Jesus!

Then, on Wednesday, we saw an outdoor play in Moorhead with some old friends. It was HOT at first, but we enjoyed watching “Singin’ In the Rain.” We had fun, and it’s always hard to believe the actors are only in high school!

On Friday morning, I took Lydia into the walk-in clinic to check on her toenail. Apparently, she stubbed her toe a while back! Thankfully, the doctor could clip it off, and the new one is already coming in. She had no pain at all, thankfully.

After visiting the clinic, Lydia and I went back-to-school shopping! The required list is so much shorter this year, a sure sign of my baby growing up! We got almost everything in one short afternoon.

Today, we stayed home and just cleaned and organized around the house. It felt so good! Mostly, we just put things away and went through some old things to donate. We washed some bedding and made some pizza, too! It was a good 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 Books and Movies I Like, Fear/Don't Fake Brave, Gratitude, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Parenting, Perseverance, Pivot, Prayer, Wisdom

Movie Review: Sound of Freedom

Last night, I watched the ‘Sound of Freedom’ movie with a good friend. We were unsure of what we were getting into since the topic is child trafficking. I wasn’t sure if it was all hype, but it is based on a true story, and I felt it necessary to bear witness. It is important to learn more and call out the darkness. It is listed as PG-13, but I’d say it’s more appropriate for 16+ given the heavy, gripping material.
Honestly, this is probably one of the best movies I’ve ever seen. While some may argue, it is not a political movie nor a religious movie. It’s not about coercion or emotions. It is about saving children and raising awareness. ‘Sound of Freedom’ is about heroism in the face of evil. It’s an incredible story of courage and hope! My heart was pounding from the get-go, but it showcased many brave people stepping up and risking their lives to do what was right.
I learned that more people are enslaved today than at any other time in history (even in the ~300 years when it was ‘legal’); over two million are children. Snatched from their families, often under false pretenses. In terms of money, it has surpassed illegal drugs. Horrifying.
Free Boy Alone photo and picture
This movie is just one small part, but it was outstanding. In terms of acting and storytelling, it was all done very well! As I reflect on it, I understand that the reality is far worse. It shows just enough to make the point. Given the topic, some parts are a little emotional, but it was very much worth seeing. Apparently, it was #1 during it’s opening weekend, even beating Indiana Jones! Wow!
My reaction? This movie makes me want to do two things at once. I could easily hide away in my safety zone, protecting all my loved ones! But I am also compelled to go out and use my voice to make a difference. While God is not calling me to go directly into dangerous territory, I can pray for those in the daily struggle. I can press for better laws and better processes. I encourage you to see the movie and vote with your entertainment dollars.
Similar to how The Chosen tv show was originally funded, you can pay it forward by buying a ticket for someone. (Or, if needed, you can benefit by getting free tickets.)
There is work to be done. Read the statistics. Learn the signs. Donate to an organization. Volunteer. Speak up. Let’s send the message that “God’s children are not for sale!”
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God, thank You for being our Rescuer. Thanks for opening our eyes to the evils around us. Help us move forward in faith, wisdom, and boldness. May we be sensitive to the needs right in front of us. Fill us with compassion and courage. In Jesus’ Name Amen
Questions: How can you be a difference-maker today? Where can you stand in the gap for someone?
Task: Check out the Sound of Freedom movie in theaters now! Also, don’t be overwhelmed with what to do… just do the very next right thing and trust God to lead you.