Category: Wisdom

Posted on in Food and Nutrition, Gratitude, Miscellaneous, Parenting, Pivot, Wisdom

Shopping Our Shelves

Here we are a week into the new year. How are you doing?!

This year, I am trying something a little different. Well, I have been meaning to do it for awhile, but just decided to go for it now, thanks to a little godly conviction. 😉

“Godliness with contentment is great gain.” — 1 Timothy 6:6

I will probably never be a minimalist, as I have many interests and like to have options! Yet, the reality is that I have plenty of stuff, possibly bordering on too much. Ahem.

Over time, I have realized it is much easier to organize my stuff if there is less of it. I don’t need more hangers or baskets; I need to use what I have and be content. Having stuff is not bad, but I want to use my resources, not just collect them. Trying to maintain “all the stuff” takes time and mental effort, so in this case, less is more.

Last week, Lydia and I spent a little time organizing around the house. Here’s the problem: I like trying new things but don’t always go through them quickly enough. I might buy a few extras to save money (buy one, get one!) and then don’t have room to store them. So, things tend to accumulate or get wasted. On top of that, sometimes I forget what’s in my pantry… so I may buy things again. (Now you know why this blog is about grace, not homemaking!)

So, this year, we are challenging ourselves to “SOS” or “shop our shelves” (or stockpiles?!) before buying more. That applies to our food, toiletries, and, yes, even my books! If there is something we don’t truly need or won’t use, we will donate it to others. The main goal is to check our storage first and see if we can make do.

Hopefully, we’ll save a little money since I have already paid for the items on my shelves. I have already paid some bills and bought gas for my car, though it feels good to save time not going to the store or shopping online. I’m running low on milk and Q-tips, and they don’t have great substitutes. Still, I’ll likely hold off a little longer and start a list.

While my budgeting has been more manageable, it’s not about the money but the principle. I’m seeing God’s provision in a new way and creating space for Him to move in my life. We cannot experience His goodness without putting our faith in Him!

We’ll have to be creative as our experiment progresses and we run out of our favorites. However, I probably already have a perfectly good swap in storage. That said, we don’t want to leave ALL the beans for the end! So far, we have been using them for dips, salads, burritos, and chili.

Ultimately, God doesn’t want our stuff; He wants our hearts. I don’t know how long the experiment will last, but I am excited to see God move in our hearts. I feel grateful for His provision. It has been freeing not to be focused on “getting” and just relaxing and using what we already have. I’ll keep you posted!

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God, thanks for all You do to provide for me! All I have is from You and belongs to You. Help me be a good and wise steward. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Do you have any big plans for the new year?

Task: Watch Madame Blueberry by VeggieTales and pray about your next steps.

Posted on in Gratitude, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Wisdom

Happy New Year!!

Happy New Year!! Welcome to 2025!!

Did you stay up late and reach midnight? We had a low-key celebration with “The Forge” movie, followed by some Nate Bargatze comedy. We enjoyed appetizers and fireworks. But, we decided to get a good night’s sleep so we can enjoy the holiday and day off!

This is the first time January 1st is on a Wednesday since I started blogging. So while I usually do an end-of year recap, I will keep it simple and jump right in.

Last year was a very interesting year for me. It was good in so many ways. I learned not to pick up what wasn’t for me and let go of what no longer served me well. I’m still a work in progress…

I learned so much about myself and trusted God more deeply. He used physical pain to get me to make some positive changes in sleep, fitness, and nutrition. I was already moving in the right direction, but I took them to a new level.

I look forward to seeing how I learn and grow this year! I have not set any resolutions, but will probably set a few short-term goals and see where it goes. For now, I will be listening to this song by Lauren Daigle on repeat. 🙂

As we reflect on the last year, what went well and what didn’t, it can be easy to feel discouraged about all the things you didn’t accomplish. Or, maybe it was a doozy, and you fought physical or financial hardships. But, you still are standing! By God’s grace, you will have Victory if you don’t give up. One way or another!

On the other hand, you may be sad if you are starting the new year without a loved one. It is tough to feel like you are leaving them behind. It does get easier, but it will take some time. Lean into the pain and draw close to Jesus. He will help you through it!

In Philippians 3:12-14 (NKJV), Paul wrote, “Not that I have already attained, or am already perfected; but I press on, that I may lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me. Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.“

Praise God, today is a new day with new mercies. Indeed, a new year full of opportunities and hope! Failure is not final, if we learn from it. 

This year, I pray you will understand just how much God loves you. It isn’t about “doing” since there’s nothing you can do to make Him love you more or less.

So, step into God’s abundant grace and provision. Move forward with purpose. It won’t be easy, but God is with you and for you. Cling to Him. Rest in Him. He is trustworthy and true.

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God, thanks for a new day and a new year! You are such a faithful provider and protector. Thanks for bringing us through! Help us stay close to You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Question: Do you have any big plans or goals for this new year?

Tasks: Read this throwback from 2015. Whatever your plans, remember to run them by God first. Trust Him to lead you and obey what He says to do. He will never let you down!

Posted on in Being Gracious, Gratitude, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Wisdom, Worship

The Heart of Christmas

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!

The last time Christmas was on a Wednesday was in 2013, our first without Dave. I was not blogging then, but we spent the holiday visiting family in Ohio. Staying in Fargo was just too difficult that year. 

But God is so faithful and good. He has seen us through each twist, turn, and holiday, providing whatever we need in the moment. I know He has special plans for us… and for you.

Today, I am sending love to you and your family. I hope you have a wonderful day celebrating God’s love and His gift to us…Jesus!! He is the best gift we could ever receive!

Lydia tends to give me handmade cards and gifts. This year, she surprised me and made fudgy chocolate cookies! They are amazing, so I’m sharing the recipe she used! Enjoy!

We have had a great Christmas season. We loved the Concordia Christmas Concert early on and The Charlie Brown Christmas play last weekend. Lydia also had some holiday events for school. We have made some yummy treats and watched most of the holiday movies. But, overall, we have enjoyed a less frantic pace!

Yesterday was declared a federal holiday (just this year), and I was extra grateful because I would’ve missed our church’s Christmas Eve service if I was still at work. It would have started and been mostly over before I could pick up Lydia at home.

I recently watched a movie about the poem “Christmas Day” by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. It was written in 1863 during the Civil War and discusses tragic loss, death, and even hate encompassed with enduring hope in God. The poem was not on my radar until I saw the movie, but now I can’t get it out of my head.

The bells refer to church bells ringing out the love, joy, and hope of Jesus. Longfellow’s wife died after an accident, yet she had always loved the bells and their sound, imagining them to be like little voices singing out God’s truth.

After she died, Longfellow refused to write or do much of anything. Grief is so heavy sometimes! But, by God’s grace, he had a breakthrough on Christmas Day, 1863. His poem was later set to music and sung as a Christmas carol, “I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day.”

Free Bells Church photo and picture

So, to recap, there is a poem, a song, and a movie. I’d recommend them all! You can learn more about the history and details here. All three are connected in one link.

Besides the joyful bells, one thing that stands out to me is the theme of listening. We must quiet ourselves before the Lord in order to hear Him and receive his love, peace, and joy. I feel like Lydia and I have been able to do that this year. I hope you can also find time and space to connect with God today.

Another line I like states, “God is not dead, nor doth He sleep…” When I heard that, I was reminded of 2 Peter 3:9 (NIV), which says, “The Lord is not slow in keeping His promise, as some understand slowness. Instead, He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.” I’m so grateful for God’s constant attentiveness and provision. He gave us Jesus and so much more!

I am grateful for each opportunity God gives us to draw close to Him. Without Jesus, that would not have been possible. He is the heart of Christmas! Love, joy, peace, mercy, grace, reconciliation, eternal life, and so much more. May we keep Him at the center as we celebrate!

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Heavenly Father, thanks for sending Jesus as a baby King for our redemption. May all we think, say, and do bring You glory. May we walk worthy of Jesus’ sacrifice. In His Name, Amen

Question: How can you keep Jesus at the center and or honor Him today?

Task: After you check out the other links above, listen to Casting Crowns’ rendition of “I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day.” It is my favorite! Merry Christmas!!

Posted on in Fear/Don't Fake Brave, Gratitude, Journey of Grace, Kindness, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Personality, Prayer, Wisdom, Worship

Don’t Fall Prey to Fear

Last week, I talked about seeking peace and avoiding distractions, largely regarding busyness. But I also recognize that fear, anxiety, and worry are a triple threat to maintaining our peace.

This season brings many emotions, such as joy, gratitude, sadness, grief, and stress. While there is so much to enjoy, it is okay to have mixed emotions. Let’s be alert for those, like fear, that would drive us away from God’s infinite LOVE.

You know I must have very specific reasons for living in a state with around six months of winter! Often, I don’t mind, but the amount of snow can sometimes be a little much at times. It becomes even more nerve-wracking if there’s ice involved. Combined with winter’s darker, early nights, I must be on guard and protect my peace.

Thankfully, God has taught me a lot about dealing with fear! I can pray for His help, reframe the situation, apply the Truth of Scripture, and switch my focus outward in service to others. Fear threatens to trap us, but we don’t have to fall prey to fear!

In practical terms, I can also dress warm, have a good attitude, go slow when needed, and thank God for all-wheel drive. I can listen to the radio, especially the Christmas carols at this time of year! I can stop and run errands nearby to wait out the traffic, if needed.

Free Nature Winter photo and picture

Another way to guard my peace is to monitor what is going into and coming out of my heart and mind. The radio can be encouraging, but often, listening to the news is not. I can read the details instead and monitor it as I go. What goes in must come out eventually, and speaking the Truth with grace and kindness is a better alternative to gossip.

Monitoring energy levels may also be helpful at this time of year! If something is draining my peace, I might be giving in fear. If it brings rejuvenation, I’m more likely to be on the right path! Faith is a stretch, but God rewards and encourages us along the way.

During the holidays, it is easy to do things without always connecting with why. Traditions are great, but sometimes we lose the intention. We cannot allow holiday traditions or daily activities to take our eyes off Jesus. Ideally, these joyous events should point us to Him!

If you are not “into” something this year, have the courage to skip it or change it. It’s okay to do something different that is more meaningful! Instead of feeling stuck, at least discuss it with your family. Perhaps you can take a step of faith and connect with Jesus in a new way while building memories together!

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God, thanks for giving us Jesus, the Reason for the Season. Help us keep our focus on You. Give us wisdom to know what to do and the courage to do it. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Questions: What are your favorite Christmas traditions? Do you do them every year or rotate between them? I like to make certain foods but don’t necessarily have a strict timeline!

Tasks: Make a list of the activities you want to do this holiday season. Match each one to your energy levels, which may ebb and flow. Choose the best and let go of the rest. Or, do some of them in January! 😉

Posted on in Gratitude, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Personality, Pivot, Prayer, Wisdom

Don’t Settle for a Piece of Peace

Christmastime is here again! This year, I feel pretty good about the season. I am staying in the moment and not looking too far ahead.

Lydia and I have various holiday plans, but overall, this year has been a practice of stepping back and doing less. That feels like a wise game plan in a season of mixed grief and joy. Thankfully, I can handle it better each year!

On Sunday, one of our pastors started Advent with a sermon on peace. His mom died this past summer, so I know he is sad and missing her. His family celebrations will look different this year, and I appreciated him sharing his heart.

The pastor’s main point was that we can’t have true peace without Jesus, the Prince of Peace. He encouraged us to go all-in with Jesus and not just accept ‘a piece of His peace.’

Jesus came as a tiny, vulnerable baby during a time known as Pax Romana, which was a military-and-government-forced peace. Yet, true peace cannot be coerced or earned. It is a gift from God, and He gives abundantly and in full.

Free Gifts Christmas photo and picture

Jesus’ peace in our hearts is like an emotional regulator or umpire. If our hearts are anxious, we should do whatever it takes to return to peace. The Holy Spirit can show us how to do that, but we must be quiet/still enough to hear Him and follow through.

For me, that means changing the channel when a slow, sad song or show comes on. I draw a boundary line because I don’t need to add any extra emotional tension. I don’t want my focus to be on uncertainty and distraction but on Jesus!

Sometimes, we have to fight to maintain peace. After all, we are called to be peacemakers, not necessarily peacekeepers. We cannot live for the status quo. We must continue growing and changing to better reflect God’s goodness and grace.

This season can be rather chaotic at times. Peace in this season will look different than at other times. Most of us have traditions, parties, and obligations. I encourage you to consider what is most important and stick with it.

That could mean doing something out of your comfort zone, perhaps trying something new. Or, maybe it’s saying no to anything that threatens your peace. Sometimes, peace means having a difficult conversation, knowing you must deal with the awkward stuff to resolve it. Whatever it takes!

One of the best ways to maintain our sense of godly peace is to focus on His Word. Consider reviewing a Bible verse a day; write it on a notecard and place it on your bathroom mirror. Or, try memorizing it. Here are some verses to get you going!

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God, thanks for the gift of Peace! Thank You for Jesus! When life gets busy, may we keep our eyes on You. Give us strength and endurance. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: What are your top priorities this holiday season? How are you going to keep Jesus at the center?

Task: Slow down and take stock of your heart each day. Check in with God and listen to His soft whispers of love and grace. Then, do whatever you can to stay close to Him. He is the Source of Life and Peace!

Posted on in Fear/Don't Fake Brave, Gratitude, Journey of Grace, Kindness, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Parenting, Perseverance, Personality, Prayer, Wisdom, Words

A Letter to Lydia

Lydia’s having another birthday this week! As we enter the teenage years, I am grateful for God bringing us this far. When she was little, I wondered how I’d be able to parent her as a single mom. I knew I needed God’s help and prayed for just that. He has been such a faithful Father and provider!

Lydia is kind and thoughtful, funny and intelligent. She is a good listener and friend. She is growing in responsibility and learning to handle tough topics with wisdom. She is the perfect blend of Dave’s strengths and mine. Watching her grow into a young lady who loves Jesus has been an honor. If I could only have one child, I am so glad it is Lydia!

I was recently reminded of some of the fantastic prayers in the Bible. The prayers consist of many things, including praises to God, blessings, deep anguish, repentance, wisdom, and encouragement, among various requests.

Did you know you can personalize certain prayers by adding your own name? We pray to God, but we can use them for our benefit, too. In essence, we are applying God’s Word of Truth, agreeing with Him, and taking it to heart. I will use Lydia’s name below as an example in a birthday letter. But feel free to use your own name in the Scriptures!

Here are just a few of the verses I am drawing from today:

2 Thessalonians 1:11 says, “With this in mind, we constantly pray for you, that our God may make you worthy of his calling, and that by his power he may bring to fruition your every desire for goodness and your every deed prompted by faith.”

Ephesians 1:17-19 says, “I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in his holy people, and his incomparably great power for us who believe…”

Numbers 6:24-26 says, “The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.”

Dear Lydia,

I am so proud of you! I am grateful God gave me you. I love who He made you to be.

I pray you will always choose faith and pray first thing. You don’t ‘have to’ be afraid or settle for ‘safe.’ Instead, you can have confidence in trials, knowing God will never leave you nor forsake you. God is with you and for you! Seek Him first in all you do, and everything else will fall into place.

Lydia, I pray God enables you to live worthy of your calling. May He give you the power to accomplish all the good things your faith prompts you to do. Then God’s name will be honored in the way you live. All this is possible because of His grace working in your life.

May you rely on the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know Him better. I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened so that you may know the hope to which He has called you, the riches of His glorious inheritance in His holy people, and His incomparably great power for us who believe.

Lydia, the Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make His face shine on you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn His face toward you and give you peace.

Draw close to Jesus, for He is your life, strength, and joy. He who began this work in you will be faithful in completing it. Therefore, Lydia, never grow tired of doing what is right and good. Keep moving forward! XO 

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Heavenly Father, thanks for all Your many blessings. Help Lydia as she continues to grow. May she always feel your love. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: What are you reading about in the Bible this week? What is the best birthday gift you have ever received?

Task: Add your name, where applicable, to Bible verses and prayers of encouragement. We are not trying to elevate ourselves or take the focus off Jesus… but I hope it helps you apply His word and move forward in your faith!

Posted on in Being Gracious, Gratitude, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Prayer, Wisdom, Worship

No Surprises

Ahh, another Election Day is done, and a new day is ahead. I don’t love politics or watch much news firsthand, but I always enjoy watching the back-and-forth to see who wins. As the states turn blue or red, it’s as if I can see God moving across the country based on our participation!

Sometimes, I have to laugh at the media’s hype and catastrophizing. “Too early to call. This is surprising. What will happen if?” People may feel uncertain, confused, or even sick about the state of things. I get it. But, while the stakes are high, we go through this every four years! 😉

I usually like to stay up and see the results, if possible. But, last night, I prioritized sleep, resting in the fact that God is in control. He understands the complexities and is not phased by them. I voted last week, and He will use all things for my good and His glory.

Ultimately, God doesn’t lose sleep over politics. He is not anxious or dependent on the results. There are no accidents, coincidences, or surprises that fall outside of His jurisdiction. He reigns over all, always has, always will!

Free ballot ballot box american flag illustration

The Bible says that God places people in their positions or removes them. He can make a donkey speak and morph people into humility. Nothing is impossible for Him!

As Paul wrote in Ephesians 6:12, “… our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.”

There is so much more going on that we can fully fathom. Yet, we are overcomers because Jesus has already conquered Evil, Sin, and Death.

Regardless of how you feel today—exhausted, upset, happy, or relieved—take heart. We Christians are God’s ambassadors, His representatives. Our peace, joy, and hope are not in any mere man or woman. Our security and eternity is in Jesus.

In Revelation, we read that things will be wild in the last days. Some would say the world is growing darker, but we do not need to fear because we have Jesus, the Light. Nothing can thwart God’s plan or purpose.

Jesus will soon return, and The End grows nearer every day. So buckle up. May we be found faithful and ready for the King of Kings and our Prince of Peace! Come quickly, Lord Jesus!

Even so, we have a great responsibility to be wise, vote, and then pray for those in power. We can also step up and help our community to make a local difference. Whatever you do, don’t wait four years to show His love and grace.

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God, You reign over all… including politics, statistics, and legalities. Your purposes stand. Thanks for covering us with mercy and grace. May we understand what You are doing and join You in Your work. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Question: Do you enjoy watching the Election Night news, or do you prefer tuning out?

Tasks: Listen to this song and pray for the leaders of our nation. Even if you don’t like them or agree with them. Remember how much grace God has given you, and extend that to others.

Posted on in Fear/Don't Fake Brave, Gratitude, Journey of Grace, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Perfectionism, Perseverance, Personality, Pivot, Wisdom

Goals Are Only a Guide

Yesterday, we had our annual goals meeting at work. We do this every year, focusing on national and departmental VA goals. The funny thing is, I never really have any goals that match my manager’s expectations. It’s almost a running joke at this point!

This level of goal setting is above and beyond our normal work duties, which are already immense! So, it’s good to challenge ourselves but it’s not the end of the world. I usually offer to help others with their goals, and that is good enough.

It’s not that I don’t have goals – I have lots! I love learning, but not all of my interests are transferrable at work or a good fit for my patients. For instance, I am interested in plant-based diets and would love to promote them more often. Yet, it’s not for everyone, especially a population that is often rural, mostly male, and meat-loving. These guys tend to rely on microwave meals or let their wives do all the cooking.

Also, focusing on my own mobility exercises has been key for me lately, but that’s a bit out of my current scope of practice. Even if I decide to train in this area (a fitness or pain certification to complement my foodie side), I may not be able to apply it as well as I would like. But it’s something I am considering!

Free goal target success illustration

For me, it’s a good sign I don’t want to set excessive goals. I want to do exactly what God is calling me to do. No more and no less. I don’t have to be perfect or overachieve. My top goals are to stay close to Jesus, listen to the Holy Spirit, and bring my Heavenly Father glory through serving and loving others. Everything else is just a bonus! 

God is good at showing me when I need to make a change, personally or professionally. He leads me and is patient with me until I get where I need to be. Therefore, if God Himself is not telling me anything different, I can be at peace. I don’t need to apologize or explain anything. I trust I am on track!

Goals are good, but they are only a guide. They don’t override God’s plan for me!

I always aim to go above and beyond to meet the needs of my patients, even when it is inconvenient. I don’t see that changing any time soon! But, God has given me a lot to do outside of work, too! As a single mom, I need to use my energy wisely.

Free Road Curve photo and picture

Prayerfully, my long-term work goals are fairly simple and have worked well so far!

  1. Eat a good breakfast since I don’t know when I will get to eat my lunch. I always manage to eat, but it’s not always predictable due to patient care.

  2. Show up. There are gonna be days I just don’t “feel” like going to work. Do it anyway. (As it is, I find I am always happier when I go and see people. I hate to miss something important!)

  3. Have a good attitude. Be a team player. Smile! I can encourage those around me, and not complain or drag them down.

  4. Have patience with my patients. Every day is different, and I work with a wide variety of personalities and problems. There are similarities, but there are still so many nuances. I have to bust myths and break through barriers daily!

  5. Do my best and minimize “late notes.” This is more of a behind-the-scenes billing thing, but I can only do my best!

I am beyond grateful for where God has me right now. This time, this space, this routine. My coworkers and family and responsibilities. I know things will change someday, but I am content going at His pace and walking in His peace.

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Heavenly Father, thanks for taking such good care of me. You are so gracious and kind to provide for me and lead me. Help me stay close to You so I can move when You do! In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Do you like setting goals? What goals are you working toward right now?

Task: When setting goals, pray first, then make them SMART! That stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-based.

Posted on in Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Personality, Pivot, Wisdom, Worship

On Going Down Rabbit Holes

If you know me well, you will know I go ALL IN when I get into a topic. I enjoy diving deep and learning everything there is to know about it. The history, the pros, the cons, the practical application, who is involved, if I can do anything with it personally, and so on. You could say I like to go down rabbit holes of knowledge!

I have a ton of tabs open on my phone, my home laptop, and my work laptop. It may sound chaotic, but they are not distractions for me. They are simply things I am not finished with yet! I hope to get back to them, but it might take some time. When I have the day off, I love to catch up and clear out my tabs to move onto other topics!

Recent topics at work and home have included many concepts, such as muscles in the hip (to understand my pain there); exercises to help said hip; cooking all sorts of foods; the electron transport chain; how to reinforce a shelf in my garage; how post-it notes are made; types of maple trees; Bible maps and archaeology; various podcasts; biographies of people involved with the Protestant Reformation; and more.

Free Books Bookshelves photo and picture

As you may guess, it’s a family thing. I am just like my dad in this, though I doubt he has as many tabs as me. I’m thankful my mom always encouraged us to cultivate curiosity. Probably explains also have an ever growing “to be read” book list…

One year, we went to several Civil War battlefields. We trekked all over the South to see them. We went to Corinth, Mississippi as well as Shiloh, Tennessee, among others. It was a lot of car time together, but we had fun!

Another time, we were in North Carolina for a family reunion. Dad and his brother, Charlie, took eight hours to tour a battleship… twice. I’m fairly certain they read every single placard on repeat! I had to be patient because they were my ride!

Last spring, I was talking with my dad at my aunt’s funeral. I asked if he and Mom planned to stop at a Civil War site on their way home. He said something that surprised me. “Well, I used to be into that, and while it is good to know history, I have decided it is less important to me now.”

The closer he gets to Jesus, things of this world fade away. Yes, it has been implied if we don’t learn from history, we are destined to repeat it. But, all the books and knowledge he had on the topic don’t matter all that much in light of who Jesus is and what He is doing. The past is the past, and we live in the present… but Eternity is our future.

Since then, I have been re-evaluating some of my rabbit holes. Even if they are benign (stuffed cabbage recipe, anyone?!). But, if they distract me from God’s purposes, I should delete them.

This idea also applies to television shows, political topics, shopping for the latest trend, following your favorite celebrity, etc. If they distract us from Jesus, they have to go!

I’m grateful God knows our tendencies, preferences, and limitations. None of that surprises Him, and He can use it all for His glory, if we are willing to let it all go for something greater! Yes, let’s dive deep into knowing Jesus and go all in for Him!

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God, You are higher and greater than anything in this world. Help us lay down any distractions so we may pivot and focus on You. We want to know You more! In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Is there something that is distracting you from Jesus today? What are you going to do about it?

Tasks: Be willing to lay aside all your passions, dreams, and stuff to follow Jesus. He may use some of those things for His purposes, but ultimately, He wants your trust and obedience. Don’t hold onto temporary things at the cost of losing the eternal.

Posted on in Gratitude, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Pivot, Prayer, Wisdom

Tuning Out and Tuning In

What do you think of when you hear or read the word “tune?” You may think of the melody in a piece of music, or an action, such as tuning a radio or tuning an instrument. This may include picking up a new frequency as you drive along or changing the channel to find something new. We can also take our vehicle in for a tune-up.

Just as we can tune in, we can tune out! For instance, we can tune out background noise when having a conversation. Or, sometimes, I am playing a game on my phone, and Lydia asks me a question. Not too often, but it does happen, and I have to ask her to repeat her request. We can also tune out of social media or television shows or sinful habits.

I read an article yesterday (not worth posting here) about how people are tuning out political advertising regarding the upcoming November elections. Each side is spending a lot of money to convince voters, and very few of us are paying attention! It seems people have already made up their minds and don’t care about the details now. Or, perhaps they are just tired of the incessant barrage of information! Maybe that’s just me?!

Politics are important, yes. It is our right, privilege, and duty to vote! But, regardless of who ends up winning, God is still in control. He will use anyone in office for His ultimate purposes. Whether they know Him or not. So, we don’t put our hope in a mere human, but in Jesus alone!

Free Violin Musical Instrument photo and picture

The closer we draw to Jesus, we start to see things as they really are. As we tune out of world’s noise, the less thrilling it becomes. At best, our bling becomes blah. At worst, well, I’m thinking total filth, dirty rags. The glamour and excitement fade away when we realize all Jesus has done for us. That’s not to say things aren’t still worthwhile; it’s just that they don’t hold power over us anymore.

Nothing and no one compares to Jesus! In Him, we can lay down our desires and expectations and look for greater things. All things become new!

There are many ways to draw close and tune our hearts to God. We can pray and seek Him as we go about our day. We can read the Bible and learn about Him. We can listen for His voice and do what He says, right away. Trust and obey!

We can tune in for a deeper understanding of who God is and what He has done for us. We can better grasp His forgiveness, which changes everything! We can drop all pretense that it all depends on us. We can eagerly await eternity with Jesus, yet live for Him today!

We can observe His work in our lives. He has good plans for our lives, and we just have to walk them out. With gratitude, we can find His grace and provision for all our needs!

Wherever you find yourself today, I encourage you to tune in to all God has for you! Perhaps sing a little melody to Him. He is so good!

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Heavenly Father, thanks for all You do for us! Help us turn away from worthless things, and help us tune in to You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Who or what are you tuning into this week? Where is your hope? Do you need a tune-up?

Task: Listen to this old hymn: “Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing.”