Category: Prayer

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

While the Nations Rage

Yesterday, we came home early from work and school because Lydia had what seemed to be a migraine. I gave her some medicine and let her rest. It was an unexpected afternoon off, and while I did some planning and a little cleaning, I mostly rested, as well.

Coming home early also gave me time to check in with a few friends and family. I checked on a couple of ladies who are in-between jobs and a friend who needs to find daycare for her child. I reached out to a relative whose sister is having health issues, too. I was able to lift them all up in prayer because God graciously gave me time back in my day.

I also prayed for America (so many issues!) and situations around the world. I prayed for persecuted Christians in Nigeria and other places that they would stand firm in their faith and that they could still be a witness for Jesus despite the great risks. I prayed for those experiencing famine, drug running, human/sex trafficking, and natural disasters. I also prayed for the various wars that are going on, including the recent Israel/Iran war (which includes many countries).

While I don’t have any great answers to these complex problems, I can trust that God is in control. He loves the world that He created and the billions of people in it. I know He has good things in store for us. I also know things are going to get a lot worse before they get better (read Revelation!).I am grateful Jesus is King. He is the Prince of Peace who reigns over all the chaos.

As Christians, we have the opportunity and responsibility to pray and work toward resolutions. However, online, we can get caught up in arguing with strangers about our causes. We must not fall into the trap that our only arena is the internet. We must show up in our communities and get involved where it matters.

Christians are unique because we have the Holy Spirit’s power in us, and He wants to use us to change the world with His love, grace, and Truth. History shows that Christians are associated with positive cultural change when they are doing what they are supposed to do. If they fail to follow through, then everyone suffers.

We can do our part by praying and taking action, and we can rely on God to do what only He can. Indeed, the Bible shows us God’s love for the nations. In Deuteronomy 32:8-9, we read how God divided the nations and set their boundaries after the rebellion at the Tower of Babel. He took Israel for Himself to serve as an (imperfect) example and to eventually lead the rest of us back to Him.

Check out the following verses:

Psalm 86:9 says,  “All the nations you have made will come and worship before you, Lord; they will bring glory to your name.”

Matthew 28:19 says, “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” 

John 3:16 says,  “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”

Acts 10:34-35 says, “Then Peter began to speak: ‘I now realize how true it is that God does not show favoritism but accepts from every nation the one who fears him and does what is right.'”
 
Revelation 7:9 says,  “After this I looked, and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count,  from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb.”

 And so, we see God’s heart for the nations. No group of people is better than another; we all need Jesus Christ. That’s why we can pray with confidence: it is His ultimate desire that all hearts be turned to Jesus. We can move forward in peace as we share the Good News, knowing He will return soon.

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Heavenly Father, You reign over all the Earth! Nothing catches You off guard. While you hate evil and will soon make it right, in 2 Peter 3:9, we see You are patient so that all can have time to know Jesus. Give us wisdom and courage as we spread Your light to this dark world. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: What are you praying for today? What can you do to help those around you?

Task: Listen to this song by the late Rich Mullins: While the Nations Rage. Remember: You don’t have to be nervous or afraid about the world’s state of affairs. Trust Jesus!

Posted on in Being Gracious, Gratitude, Kindness, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Personality, Pivot, Prayer, Wisdom, Worship

Sitting In the Silence

There is so much going on in the world right now, and much of it can be overwhelming. On the flipside, it is tempting just to ignore it ala ‘ostrich style’ and bury our heads in the sand. We don’t really have that luxury, though!

Here and abroad, violence, politics, and social issues are taking up many of the headlines, not to mention retaliation, fearmongering, persecution, misunderstandings, and twisting the Truth. Some of these issues affect people I know, while others are more distant. But on the whole, they are concerning. We are moving ever-closer to the end (Revelation!).

In times like these, I am more grateful for the hope we have in Jesus. We don’t have to shoulder these burdens alone. We can submit all our fears and concerns to Him; Jesus is more than capable and will take care of them in His timing.

It is good to be aware, stay informed, speak up, and take action. But sometimes, it is best to disconnect from the media and stay close to the Lord. As we fix our gaze on Him, He calms our hearts and instills courage. He may lead us to get involved in an issue, or He may direct us stay the course and carry on with whatever He has already told us to do. It’s unlikely I will change the whole world, but I can impact my little corner of it. (Galatians 5:22-23 and Galatians 6:9).

I find that being too busy is the worst thing when I want to hear from the Lord and find His peace. I have to let go of expectations, turn off the noise, lay aside my phone, and just sit with Him so I can tune in and listen. I might read the Bible or journal. I might sit in silence or sing a worship song. The goal is to seek God’s heart, and that takes time and intention.

Artificial Intelligence can make it difficult to know what is true, similar to someone fired up on the internet! Pick a topic; either way, people make assumptions and generally don’t check the facts or care to present all sides of the issue.

Yet, when we sit in silence and wait on the Lord, we are reminded that all Truth belongs to Jesus because He is the Truth (John 14:6). All details, data, and decisions must be filtered through His lens. Sitting in silence does not mean remaining silent or squandering a God-given opportunity to make a difference. It just means submitting to the Lord’s timing and plan first, waiting on Him instead of forging ahead on my own.

When I read a post online, sometimes I wonder if I am doing “enough.” People debate whether Jesus would do this or that… when statistics show they’ve likely never read the Bible in its entirety. Do they actually know the real Jesus, or just a cultural idea of Him? Then, I think about all I do daily to provide insight or to listen to patients, friends, family, etc. I would much rather pray and respond in my actual life than get into a heated debate with a stranger I’ll never meet in person or someone I only run into a few times a year (or less).

I don’t generally share all my thoughts and opinions in person, let alone on the internet! But that doesn’t mean I don’t have ideas to share. I generally prefer to wait, gather well-rounded information, and share it with those I know personally. We don’t have to agree, but we can have a respectful conversation!

The key for me is sitting with the Lord and listening, so I know what to say when the Holy Spirit gives me the opportunity. His words are life and peace. We have the ability to bring His merciful conviction or gracious comfort to a world in desperate need. But, we can’t be in a rush or ignore Him!

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Lord, thanks for giving us peace, grace, wisdom, and courage. Help us listen to You today and be willing to pivot in a new direction, as needed. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Do you have a difficult time hearing from God? What is He telling you today?

Task: Sit with the Lord today. Lay aside any distractions and be willing to sit in silence, if that’s what it takes. Write down anything He tells you for future reference.

Posted on in Gratitude, Journey of Grace, Miscellaneous, Prayer, Worship

Well-Nourished

Last week, I had a cool conversation with a Veteran, and it confirmed I am right where God wants me! And to think, I almost missed the call! I ended up calling him about half an hour later because I had overlooked the appointment on my schedule. Ooops!

The man answered the phone right away and was forgiving. He was a little younger than me and had several food issues, including ulcerative colitis and food allergies, that were causing him much stress, fear, and anxiety. It was such an interesting conversation, and God opened a door to talk about spiritual matters.

Of course, we reviewed some strategies to help him avoid certain foods. We talked about how to communicate his needs to his family and about having a separate spot for some of his favorite foods, so he doesn’t feel left out. We discussed symptom management regarding his other eating issues. We came up with a game plan.

Then, I brought up how the vagus nerve is part of our fight or flight mechanism, and it connects the brain to the gut. If someone is mentally anxious, that can affect how well the gut processes food. Similarly, if the gut is struggling to digest something, that can impact the health of the brain. So, for this Veteran, it was cyclical!

We also talked about stress management and coping skills. He agreed that talking with a mental health counselor could be helpful. Then, he shared some spiritual concepts he is learning, and I let the conversation go that way. I am not paid to talk about Jesus, but I am allowed to share my faith. I don’t ever start with that, but it is always surprising how many people need spiritual support and connection. At the VA, we treat the whole person, and I am grateful to meet each person’s needs individually!

Subtly, I worked to apply Scripture to this man’s anxiety and fear. I said we are commanded to renew our minds (Romans 12:1-2), and that fear is not from God (2 Timothy 1:7). I explained how our enemy could be using his food issues to distract him from his greater purpose. I told the Veteran he could trust God with his meals, since Jesus wants the best for him and wants him well-nourished. At last, a lightbulb went on, and he said, “So I don’t have to be afraid. I can stay calm and use my Epi-Pen, if needed. It doesn’t have to be life or death every day!” He was both in awe and relieved.

At some point, this Veteran asked if I was a Christian. When I said yes, he asked if he could pray for me, and I could pray for him. I was happy to participate and prayed that God would give him peace and show him the power he has over his thoughts.

Later, I got to share with some of my coworkers what God had done. We talked about His goodness, faithfulness, and timing. Moreover, I was so happy God could use me both nutritionally and spiritually!

Food is nourishment, but so is God’s word! We can’t help others on our own; we need to be in our Bible daily, soaking it up so we have something to share. Last week, it was amazing to see the work Jesus has done in my heart, enabling me to call out fear in others and teach them to combat it with Scripture. Thank You, Lord!

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Heavenly Father, thanks for using me to change this Veteran’s life by giving him a new perspective. Help him continue to make progress in renewing his mind. Give him health and guide our next conversation at his follow-up in a couple of weeks! In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: How has the Lord been using you lately to bless others? How can you renew your mind with Scripture today?

Tasks: Take a few minutes to praise God for how far He has brought you. He is so faithful and good. Then, listen to this song, “Won’t Start Now,” by Seph Schlueter.

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

Command, Promise, Risk

Today, at work, I get to do my quarterly BLS practice! BLS stands for Basic Life Support, and it is helpful (mandatory) to keep my CPR credentials up to date. We have an adult mannikin and a little baby one at work. It is fairly simple, though not necessarily easy. In my experience, the mannikins can be a little finicky!

I thought the timing was ironic because on Sunday, our pastor mentioned another acronym for CPR. Instead of CardioPulmonary Resuscitation, he reframed it as Command, Promise, Risk.

We were talking about the prophet, Elijah, in 1 Kings 17. He stood up in his generation, and God used him greatly. Elijah spoke against evil and demonstrated God’s power in legendary ways. By faith, Elijah prophesied that no rain would fall on Israel because they had abandoned the one true God. This eventually led to a showdown between Elijah and the prophets of Baal. As if that wasn’t enough, hundreds of years later, he was with Jesus and Moses on the mountain of Transfiguration!

Free Heart Sunrise photo and picture

Regarding CPR, our pastor explained that God gives us a Command and a Promise. But, we need to take the Risk and obey. So many times, we want the promise of reward, but fail to follow through by taking the first step. There is no reward without risk!

Risks are one sure way to ‘get your heart pumping!’ But we don’t have to give in to fear. God will provide for anything He sets in motion. Follow His command, and He will bring His promise to pass.

Taking the leap of faith is risky, and maybe you don’t feel like you have that much faith. Yet, you only need a little—think mustard seed—and you don’t have to have all the answers first. Trust God’s heart.

Each of us may struggle on our own, but when we come together, we are stronger. Showing up and taking a risk, even when you don’t feel like it, can actually be a boost to someone else. We can “borrow” the faith we ourselves need from others, and we can give that support, too. Soon, our hearts are pumping in unison and God is glorified in us!

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God, thanks for being with us in life’s challenges. Help us take the risks and obey Your commands. We don’t do it to obtain a reward, but to glorify You. Help us be faithful. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: What is a risk God is asking you to take right now? What is His command, and what is His promise to you once you take the risk? Is there someone who can cheer you on?

Task: Don’t rely on your own strength today. Lean on God and take the risky first step of faith… then watch how He moves on your behalf!

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

Finding Grace #502

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 Autumn Forest photo and picture

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

This was another week of hustling!

We served in the kids’ ministry at church on Sunday, and I squeezed in a quick walk with a friend. Then, we ran home to get Lydia packed for Congress before her team left on the bus.

Lydia was gone all day Monday, but did really well at Congress. She gave four of her speeches and scored high enough to place! It was a cool end to her first season!

My Monday was very full but good. I stayed close to Jesus and enjoyed several church-related events. I’m grateful.

On Tuesday evening, we attended a golden birthday party for one of Lydia’s school friends. If you recall, we met a family from Africa a few years ago at the bus stop. Over time, we have seen less of them since they have gotten more settled. We enjoyed catching up, eating really good food, and enjoying their culture and traditions. And, they sent us home with leftovers!

Wednesday was my mom’s birthday. We all miss her so much, but we are doing well. And, she is with the very One who loves her the most. So, while we are sad, we are also happy for her and proud of her!

At work, I felt like I was chasing my tail all week, and I was only there four days! 🙂 I barely stayed on top of my charting, but somehow did. I know God was helping me all along the way. I had nice patients and accomplished a lot. Thanks, Lord!

On Thursday night, I dropped off Lydia and a friend at church for a youth convention that went through today. It was a funny week because I was pretty much on my own for much of it (Sunday, Monday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday).

Yesterday after work, I met up with my coworker, Natalie, to hang out again. (She is off on maternity leave.) She had her new baby girl and her older son, who did not have preschool that day. It was fun to spend time together, and we visited a church ministry on the NDSU campus before getting coffee!

After that, I went to Menards and then finished up some outdoor projects at home… while catching up with my sister on the phone. Next, I did some studying and watched a movie. It was a fulfilling day!

This week, the weather definitely felt more like Fall! It was a little chilly, overcast, windy, and rainy. I didn’t mind too much and am thankful it wasn’t snow!

Today was a fairly restful Saturday. I did some studying before running errands and picking up Lydia from the youth convention. She had a big week and ended up resting for quite a while after that! After a three-hour nap, I had to wake her 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 Being Gracious, Gratitude, Journey of Grace, Miscellaneous, Prayer, Wisdom, Worship

A Day Off with Jesus

On Monday, I was off from work due to Columbus Day. Normally, I would set up a massage or do something relaxing. But, this year, I had a relatively full agenda!

I did sleep in an hour or so; I did not have to get up super early because Lydia was a few hours away at her Congress event. I woke up and did a little stretching, made some coffee and breakfast, spent time with God, noticed the beautiful fall colors outside, did some laundry, and started my blog post early. I had fun with Jesus and invited Him to come with me!

Free reading cozy coffee illustration

Later in the morning, I went to church for a ‘staff chapel.’ I am not on staff, but was invited as part of the leadership class I am taking. It was cool to have a peek behind the scenes and also to see the heart of our pastors. I talked with some new-to-me people and enjoyed some delicious food before we worshiped, took communion, and prayed.

Actually, we prayed a lot, lol! We prayed for a few key needs and for individual dreams, too. We wrote some God-sized dreams and prayer requests and then swapped them so others could pray. We did this a few times, and I enjoyed lifting up those I knew and some I hadn’t officially met yet. Some were housing or vehicle needs, while others were simply dreams for travel or fun adventures.

I left feeling even more connected to God and my church. I praised him as I left to fill my car with gas and accomplish more tasks. Back home, I checked my laundry, made lunches for the work-week, exercised, and continued writing this blog post.

Then, I spent a few hours studying for the leadership class and reviewing the material for a five-week series I will be teaching at work. It was a good, quiet afternoon, and I was glad to catch up on one class and get ahead on the other!

Free Forest Sun photo and picture

In the evening, I went to a new friend’s house to discuss the church’s leadership class. We met as a large group last week, so this week, just the ladies met to review the material we are going through and get to know each other. I appreciated the fellowship and hospitality!

Then, Lydia returned home from her Congress outing. She did well, and it was fun to hear all about her experience. We quickly got ready for bed, and that was it!

Even though I had a full day, I was glad to spend it with Jesus. Sometimes, life gets so busy we run, run, run… and forget to check in with Him along the way. Whatever is on your to-do list today, remember to bring Jesus with you!

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God, thanks for guiding my steps, coming with me each day, and helping me complete everything. Help me feel Your presence and trust You even when I don’t. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Question: Do you actively ask Jesus to join you as you go about your day?

Task: Spend at least the first fifteen minutes sitting in the presence of God each morning. Talk to Him about your day, any concerns you have, or any changes He wants you to make.

Posted on in Gratitude, Journey of Grace, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Personality, Pivot, Prayer, Wisdom, Words, Worship

Getting Through It with Jesus

The last two weeks have been rather tough. I’ve been very “busy” with a lot going on, not to mention the news has been particularly sad and heavy. It’s exhausting!

I’ve had a lot of individual activities and events to remember. I have been spent time preparing for this very week. Maybe you can relate!

Additionally, I tend to hold stress in my upper back and shoulders, and then it travels upward. So, I’ve had sore muscles and a headache on and off this whole time.

Monday was especially full, with a big presentation at work followed by a full day of seeing patients. After that, I had a training at church and did not get home until 9 p.m. Lydia had an extracurricular activity and walked home afterward, but I didn’t see her until it was bedtime.

I don’t know about you, but sometimes when things get hectic, it’s easy just to want it to be over already. Now, all my activities on Monday were good and I looked forward to them.

But I was also praying I could get through the day and be able to relax. On my walk into work, I said, “Lord, just help me get through everything today.” And as soon as I said that, the thought occurred to me, “I don’t need to get through it, I just need to stay close to Jesus.”

Free Coneflowers Flowers photo and picture

All throughout the day, I had peace. The presentation went really well, and I was very glad that God helped me. I had practiced, of course, but I had revised my slides on Thursday and then we also had company last weekend. So, I was familiar, but maybe not fully comfortable with the content.

I had several patients back-to-back after my presentation and barely ate my lunch. I did not get a full thirty-minute break anywhere, but I had God’s peace and joy as I went about my day. It was a little hectic, but He was with me.

I ran home after work to add air to my tires. The pressure sensor went off while I was driving, but I only had time to check the tires and fix the one that was slightly low. I’ll have to do a more thorough inspection later. Then, I was off to church.

We had a small meal catered in, and I was a little early. But that gave me time to focus and decompress a little. Then, we had a great time of fellowship and learning about spiritual formation and spiritual disciplines. It was dark when I left for home, but I was happy.

On my way there, my check oil light came on. No big deal, lol, I will check that and my tires! I briefly checked in with Lydia before she went to bed, but I still had several things to do to prepare for Tuesday. I prayerfully only did what was most necessary before heading to bed myself.

Free Flower Desert photo and picture

I’m sure you have had days or weeks like mine. You may just be pushing through to get through the day, week, month, or season. It is easy to try to handle everything all on your own. But what if you invite Jesus into the mess? What would that look like and feel like?

Your day may still be a little crazy, but God already knows what you need. He can change your schedule and/or empower you to handle it with grace. Ultimately, God directs your steps anyway. You don’t have to do it all or “get through it” on your own!

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Father God, thanks for taking my burdens and replacing them with grace. Thanks for peace, joy, and rest during life’s challenges. Help me trust You more. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Question: Have you been resting in Jesus or STRESS-ing out?

Task: Check in with Jesus regularly, and even more when your day is chaotic!

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.

Free Hand Write photo and picture

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!

Free Lake Forest photo and picture

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 Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Food and Nutrition, Gratitude, Journey of Grace, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Prayer

Finding Grace #495

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 Monarch Echinacea photo and picture

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

This was a great week, and I saw God work all around me!

On Monday, I started a ministry training class at church. We will be covering two courses this semester and two next semester. It will be a commitment, and also a great opportunity. I don’t know all that God has in store for me, but I am excited to learn and grow!

Work was steady but really good. There is always a lot going on, but it always feels worthwhile. I am happy to be where God has me, making a difference!

On Tuesday, I had an appointment which has me thinking about possibilities and answered prayers. I might have a decision to make, but I am still researching the information presented. I am grateful for how God guides and cares for me!

This week, I received garden-fresh beets and carrots from a friend at work. I roasted them last night, and they are delicious. After that, a neighbor gave us some freshly-picked sweet corn! I love it when people share the bounty of the season!

I woke up early this morning with lots of energy and ideas. I decided to organize a few spots around the house and started right away. I did not complete all that I wanted to do, but now I have a plan. 😉 I also mowed, did laundry, and cut up watermelon. With the long weekend, I hope to make more progress!

This afternoon, Lydia and I attended a little friend’s third birthday party. It was fun to see how much she has changed in one year! I pray God will do mighty things in her life and that she will one day trust in Him as her Lord and Savior.

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These are only a few examples, but God’s grace never runs out!

There’s grace in every situation—we just need to look for it. God promises if we seek Him, we will find Him (see Jeremiah 29:13)!

Posted on in Gratitude, Miscellaneous, Personality, Pivot, Prayer, Wisdom, Worship

Worthy of Praise

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

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

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