Category: Prayer

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.
Posted on in Gratitude, Miscellaneous, Prayer, Wisdom

God of Justice

This week, I am thinking about God’s justice, and while I can understand it on some level, I don’t think I can do it… justice…. in a simple blog post. (Yes, I intend all my puns!)

Our human justice is relatively low-level compared to God’s. It is a good start, but imperfect. We can do our best, but it can be challenging to manage our biases. We have to be careful not to let our emotions or preconceived ideas get the best of us.

God’s Justice overflows from His character and is connected to His righteousness. He is Holy and always just. We humans can not fully grasp God’s justice. If we disagree with Him, it is not He who is at fault. His thoughts and ways are so much higher than ours!

I have been watching the news about Israel and Iran. While Israel is not perfect, they are God’s beloved people. He will always fight on their behalf. That does not necessarily mean we jump in to help, but we must pray for our leaders and about our next steps.

I believe Israel would have been attacked either way, as this has been a longstanding part of Iran’s history toward them. (Note: I am not referring to the native Persians; in fact, many Israelis are also Persian Jews.) So, to me, it seems the pre-emptive attack is “justified” to some degree. Whatever your opinion, my point is that it’s not always clear. There is much to consider and no easy solution. We are not privy to all the background details, so you and I can only judge based on the information we have. God alone knows each person’s heart and motivation. Whatever happens, He is still in control.

Personally, I have been an observer and a ‘sometimes advisor’ to a few people in a complex situation. I see and hear things that are so unfair, but there is little I can do about them. I am limited in my decision-making and coaching because I mostly see the situation from one viewpoint.

I have to continually check my heart because while I want justice, I kind of want the other side to feel a little pain. I want to shake some sense into them and make them bear the consequences of their actions!

Needless to say, justice can be complicated. This I know: God will not be mocked. We reap what we sow, so we cannot afford to be wise in our own eyes. We must seek and pursue God’s justice and wisdom. While our Heavenly Father defends those He loves, He also disciplines them when needed. None of us is off the hook. We all must give an account someday.

God is a God of Justice. I am His conduit, but He does not ‘need’ me to do His work. I get to humbly participate because I am part of His family. That said, I still need to let God be God and have the final word. Psalm 89:14 says, “Righteousness and justice are the foundation of Your throne; steadfast love and faithfulness go before You.”

I am so glad I am not God because making just decisions is tough. We can weigh the pros and cons and listen to wise advice. We can pray and negotiate. We can try to minimize negative consequences. In the end, we must trust God to do what is right and just. He has already given us Jesus, and His Spirit will give us the strength to endure. Only He is above reproach!

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Heavenly Father, thanks for fighting on our behalf. Thanks, also, for loving us too much to let us get away with poor behavior. May we be a faithful example of your justice, mercy, and grace. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Did you know Israel is the size of New Jersey, and Iran is twice the size of Texas? Did you know Jewish people comprise only 0.2% of the World’s population?

Task: Memorize Micah 6:8. For more background information on Israel, check out these two (not super political) videos: History of Israel and Gaza   and   a conversation with Mike Huckabee.

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Gratitude, Miscellaneous, Pivot, Prayer, Wisdom, Worship

Finding Grace #481

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 Pansy Purple photo and picture

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

This went so well, and it was all because of Jesus. On Monday, I had a heart-to-heart chat with Him and asked Him for help. He came through like He always does!

All week, I was swamped with work. I had many patients, but I also needed to catch up on charting from last week. I also had to complete my Monday and Tuesday notes before the long holiday. Plus, I had three competencies and quizzes to finish. I kept checking in with God and didn’t let myself get too stressed. I was calm and expectant and tried not to panic as the week went on! I raced to finish before my tour ended on Friday, and I finally clicked the last thing just as my shift was done. It was amazing, and I am so grateful!

Lydia finished seventh grade on Thursday! She also found out she was chosen to be in the chamber orchestra again next year. I am so proud of her hard work. She celebrated with a friend by going to dinner and then watching a baseball game.

I spent the evening mowing. It was a gorgeous day after several days of rain, so it was great to spend the time outside! I was proud of myself for getting it done ahead of the long weekend.

On Friday after work, Lydia went to hang out with another friend, so I went to Barnes and Noble for a coffee and to work on some continuing education. I like going there sometimes to focus. It is quiet, but it also minimizes distractions. I actually sit still and work since I don’t want to leave all my stuff unattended!

Today, we decided to do some cleaning. I enjoy being able to clean without rushing, so I listened to some podcasts and got lost in my dusting and organizing! Lydia did some laundry and cleaned her room. Tonight, we can relax a bit!

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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, 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!

Free Building Porch photo and picture

“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!

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

Finding Grace #474

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 Birds Branch photo and picture

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

This week flew by!

Work was fairly busy but good. I had a lot of nice patients and was able to help them. I also got to demonstrate a helpful program to help my coworkers chart faster and find information easier. It was fun to show them all the tips and tricks!

We had more snow over a few days this week. It was very thick and wet. I shoveled the sidewalks, but thankfully,  my snow service is still under contract for a couple more weeks!

Yesterday after work, I went to the movie theater to see The Chosen, Season 5, Episodes 3, 4, and 5. I loved the portrayal of how Jesus treated His female followers. It brought tears to my eyes—so good. The rest was full of confusion, emotion, intrigue, and politics. It really helped me understand all the events of Holy Week!

Lydia started a rifle class this week at a local marksmanship facility, where she took the air pistol class a few years ago. She enjoyed it and is looking forward to the rest of the classes this month!

We had a lovely little serenade from some robins and finches this morning. Then, we got some groceries and came home to make some muffins and an egg bake. Lydia did a little cleaning for me while I am doing some paperwork.

Today also happens to be my parents’ fiftieth wedding anniversary. It stings a little since they came so close (6 weeks short), and now my mom is not here to celebrate it. But, we are trusting God’s wisdom, mercy and grace. I am grateful for some church friends who invited my dad to join them for some fun today. It is tough, but I am glad he does not have to be alone. Thanks for your ongoing prayers!

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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, Journey of Grace, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Pivot, Prayer, Travel, Wisdom

Finding Grace #469

You may have seen the acronym GRACE as God’s Riches At Christ’s Expense. Grace is also God’s unmerited favor, or God doing for us what we cannot.
I find grace overflowing with God’s love, joy, peace, blessings, mercy, power, provision, protection, and wisdom. Thank You, Jesus!
Where did I find God’s love and favor—His abundant grace—this week?!
This week was bittersweet, a mix of difficulty and blessing. As you may know, my mom died last weekend, a couple of hours after I posted my weekly recap.
So, the week was spent trying to get many things in order! Sunday and Monday were spent packing and planning, contacting people who loved Mom. I also worked a half day to tie up some loose ends. Sometimes, those tasks are helpful when grieving because they give your mind something to focus on. In terms of packing, we essentially threw in the same items from last week and a few more outfits.
On Tuesday morning, we flew to Florida again. This time, we had an early flight and two layovers. Thankfully, we arrived safe and sound and could continue helping Dad plan Mom’s services. It was soothing to go through pictures and remember how much fun we had with Mom. God has come through for us in so many ways.
This week, family and friends from several states gathered together in honor of my Mom. And, today, we had her memorial service at my parents’ local church. They are a very loving group, and it felt good to be amongst those who knew my parents well, even if just for a short while.
Thanks again for all the love and support. I appreciate your continued prayers, especially for my dad, Tom. Life is short, just a vapor, really. Please get to know Jesus and live for Him. And, hug your loved ones a little tighter tonight.
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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, Fear/Don't Fake Brave, Gratitude, Journey of Grace, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Pivot, Prayer, Wisdom, Worship

Jehovah Jireh, My Provider

“Jehovah Jireh, My Provider, His grace is sufficient for me, for me, for me…”

This is just one of the songs that’s been running through my mind lately.

It is a good reminder, amid a world of uncertainty that God is reliable. His grace covers me! He does not sleep nor slumber. He has never lost a battle. He is always victorious! He loves me, He is for me, He protects me, He brings me peace, and yes, He provides for me!

Hebrews 13:8, says, “ Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” God is unchanging, always full of grace and truth. He is not surprised by anything.

One of my favorite verses is Ephesians 2:10 (NIV), which says, “For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”

Free Winter Pine Tree photo and picture

All I have to do is trust in Jesus, and do what He says. He has a good plan for me, and I just need to walk it out. Everything I need is in Him.

What is for me, is for me. If it is in God’s plan for me, nothing can stop it (except my own lack of faith). As long as I seek Him first, it will all work out. Looking back, some of our greatest trials bring our greatest triumphs!

Remember, God is not only your Provider, He is your Source. He has ways of providing for you that you don’t even know! As Dennis Rainey once said, “He owns the cattle on a thousand hills… and He owns the hills, too.”

Isaiah 26:3 (ESV) says, “You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on You,
because he trusts in You.” If you need peace today, think about the Lord. Meditate on Jesus’ sacrificial love. Consider His goodness toward you. Remember His faithfulness and all the ways He has come through for you in the past!

So, instead of chasing chaos today, remember God’s goodness and mercy are chasing you! His grace is sufficient for all you are going through.

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Heavenly Father, thank You for Jesus! Thanks for giving us all we need to live a godly life. You are so good and faithful. Help us trust You to provide for us. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Are you an avid news reader or not? Do you notice how it affects your sense of peace and security? What are the positives? What are the negatives?

Task: Praise God for all the ways He provides for you! If something is causing fear or anxiety, cut it out so you can focus on the Truth of God’s love. There is no fear in love.