Tag: fear

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!

**********

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, Gratitude, Journey of Grace, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Personality, Wisdom, Worship

A Fear vs. Faith Comparison

Romans 12:2 NLT says, “Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.”

God’s will includes holiness and living honorably, abstaining from sinful behaviors, being thankful in all circumstances, praying in the Spirit, rejoicing, and growing in patient endurance and humility, while continuing to meet together with other believers. Read through Philippians, 1 Thessalonians, Hebrews 10, and more!

I haven’t written about fear and faith in a while, but in many ways, the Bible verse above is key. We cannot let ourselves be ambivalent, thinking two ways about something and letting fear win. We need to let God change our minds and how we think. Only then will we be able to walk in Victory.

So, how can you know if you are responding in fear or in faith? To start, love and faith go hand in hand. When reading 1 Corinthians 13 (“the love chapter”), I found it interesting to put fear in the place of love and reverse it with a slight rewrite (verses 4-7): Fear is impatient, fear is unkind. It is full of envy, boasting, and pride. It dishonors others, is self-centered and easily angered, and tracks tit for tat. Fear delights in evil and hates the truth. Fear never protects, never trusts, never offers hope or encouragement, and always gives up. In short, fear is a dead end.

Hebrews 11 is sometimes called the Hall of Faith. It reviews the faith of several people in the Old Testament and how they pleased God by trusting Him. (Now reread this chapter as if it were written from a fear point of view! “It was by fear Abraham did not believe God…”) Hebrews 6 says, “Without faith, it is impossible to please God…” Conversely, we understand that fear never pleases Him! Faith is essential, and fear cannot be our default.

When we operate in fear, we have to work quickly and jump right in. That’s because fear gives in to pressure and tries to solve its own problems. At the same time, fear can mean shutting down and stalling. Yes, a fear response can feel chaotic and out of control… all over the place as we try to find what will work “best.”

On the other hand, living by faith means we pause to check in with the Master, Jesus Christ. A faith response is in no hurry because the solution doesn’t depend on us. Faith means going at the Lord’s pace, which often feels slow, yet is always right on time.

Fear involves sticking with what you know because it feels familiar, if not safe. Often, fear refuses to look at the data as a whole, yet obsesses over every detail. Fear involves confusion!

Faith involves asking Jesus for wisdom to know what to do and the courage to follow through, knowing He will fill in the gaps as you move forward. Clarity comes along the way, as you don’t have to have all the answers to walk by faith. Often, faith pushes our limits and requires us to trust God to take risks and try something new. But it is always worth it.

**********

Heavenly Father, thanks for empowering us to live in faith, not fear. Lord, we want to please You! May honor You with our decisions and in all we do. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Questions: What pattern of fear are you struggling with today? What does walking in faith look like for you in that situation? Can you flip the scenario around to see the difference?

Task: Take the next step of faith on your journey today. When you are vacillating between fear and faith, consider which choices will please God. Dare to do the difficult thing!

Posted on in Being Gracious, Gratitude, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Parenting, Personality

Introverts and Ice Cream

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

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

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

Free Ice Cream Ice Cream Cone photo and picture

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

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

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

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

Free Ice Dessert photo and picture

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

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

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

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

**********

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

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

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

Posted on in Being Gracious, 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.

**********

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.

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

Between a Rock and a Hard Place

I have written a lot about choosing faith over fear and moving forward despite obstacles that inevitably arise. But what does that look like? 

Recently, I had a decision to make but was waffling a bit, thinking about the pros and cons. I am at peace now and have taken the first step. But, to get me there, it took prayer, research, and discussion. However, the biggest thing for me was recognizing fear in the background. Yes, it is always a factor, even still!

I quickly saw that the right decision was one that included faith. Faith is not about seeing the answer but the vision of what is possible. Fear and uncertainty cloud our sight and always like to hold us back!

Free Mountain Rock photo and picture

On Sunday, my church’s worship session helped me focus on God. A lot of this blog post came to me then, so I raced home to put down my thoughts. It has evolved a little, but here’s what I wrote on the back of my church notes! 🙂

When you are between a rock and a hard place, lean into the Rock. God is our refuge. He is safe and secure, solid… but don’t try to control Him or restrict His power.

Nothing is impossible for God. Believe He wants to do big things. Take a stand. Be bold and step out in faith! Do the brave thing. Keep an open heart and mind. Keep hope alive.

Be humble and trust that God knows all the details. Give Him the glory for doing what only He can do! He is the “Way Maker, Promise Keeper, Light in the Darkness.”

Free Landscape Cape photo and picture

As I move forward, I need these reminders from time to time. I’m grateful God is there to help us make good choices. I hope this encourages you to make faith-filled decisions today. The alternative, fear, is a miserable way to live!

If you have put your faith in Jesus, you have personal access to the God of the Universe. He is with you and for you! You are covered with grace and forgiveness.  You are loved beyond measure. God has chosen you for His infinite purposes!

So, don’t try to limit God. Give Him the space to move and see what He does for you! His power cannot be contained. All He does is GOOD. Nothing can stand against Him!

**********

God, thanks for always coming through for us. Give us wisdom and help us make faith-filled decisions. May we honor You in all we do. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: How do you like to make decisions? Do you have a hard time trusting God?

Task: As you make decisions, weigh out the pros and cons. Ask for input from those in your inner circle. Choose wisely, and most of all, don’t let fear or uncertainty hold you back. The right choices come with peace, even when you can’t see how all the details fit into place!

Posted on in Fear, Faith, and Moving Forward book, Gratitude, Journey of Grace, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Personality, Pivot, Prayer, Wisdom, Worship

Pain Has A Purpose

Lately, I’ve seen many people dealing with challenging circumstances, quite a few of which have worsened in recent months. Whether someone’s pain is related to financial health, physical health, mental health, consequences of someone’s actions, grief or loss, or something else, the emotions are very real.

When life throws you a curveball, how do you respond?

Undoubtedly, we’ve all wondered why bad things happen to good people. I covered much of this in my book, based on my own experiential understanding of pain. But it has been a while since I talked about it here. Each of us handles pain a little differently, although there are probably some broad similarities, too.

The world sees pain as proof that God doesn’t exist. “If God really loved me, why we would He let that happen?” The devil uses pain to make us believe that God doesn’t care, that He has abandoned us. He twists God’s character and lies to us, sometimes leading us toward a sinful response when we mistrust God.

Free Landscape Winter photo and picture
Yet, pain is a tool God uses to get our attention and to teach us. As C.S. Lewis wrote, “God whispers to us in our pleasures, speaks in our conscience, but shouts in our pain: it is His megaphone to rouse a deaf world.” from The Problem of Pain, chapter 6

In reality, it’s good for our faith to be tested sometimes. We find out who or what we’ve been relying on. Anything less than Jesus is going to fail. Let Him refine you.

We have small tests of faith daily. If I sit in a chair, there’s a fleeting moment that I have to trust it to hold me! We trust total strangers, such as airplane pilots, firefighters, and even garbagemen, to do their jobs and come through for us. But, we can struggle to trust God, who created us and loves us so much.

It is much easier for me these days to trust God because I have put Him to the test. But, that doesn’t mean I never face another challenge. I will face trials as long as I am here on this lovely planet. Jesus reminded us of that, but He also reminded us He is always with us. That’s a promise! 

Free Mountains Mountain Peaks photo and picture
Pain and trials are often linked. We may not understand the purpose until much later. Nonetheless, I heard an interesting perspective this week that I am still thinking about: It may feel like God is picking on us, but really, He is picking us. There is a big difference!

We see this in full force when reading the book of Job and other books of the Bible. God had a special purpose for Job and his pain. It brought Him glory in the end. And, God ended up blessing him with much more than he had before. God’s blessing is not always financial, and I am happy to let Him choose what is best!

Ultimately, we can see pain as an opportunity to grow and reflect God’s character. So, instead of grumbling and complaining, we can choose to draw close and worship Him. We are more than conquerors in Jesus!

Through trials, we see and learn new things about ourselves and God. It takes maturity to see God’s goodness in the pain. Yet, we cannot always have only goodness – that’s not real life! As we lean on God, we remember He is Supreme and reigns over ALL, the good and the bad.

“And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.” Romans 8:28

“But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore, I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me.”
2 Corinthians 12:9 (ESV)

We can trust God and lean on Him as our Heavenly Father. His joy is your strength! He is faithful and true. He will never let us down!

**********

Father God, thanks for being with us in our pain and trials. Help us see your purposes in our pain. Help us trust You more and bring You glory. In Jesus’ Name, Amen 

Questions: What is your gut reaction to pain and trials? Is it fear and worry, or prayer and praise?

Tasks: When painful trials come, dig in deep. Draw close to God through prayer, worship, and reading His word. Trust Him to come through for you!

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!

**********

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 Fear/Don't Fake Brave, Gratitude, Journey of Grace, Miscellaneous

Safe and Secure

As we start the holiday season, we have so much to be thankful for.  This includes Lydia and other family, friends, my health, job, house, food, and car, etc. People are infinitely more important than “stuff,” but I am grateful for all God has given me to steward.

I spent a little time this week sending notes or texts to some friends and family who have lost loved ones this year. Those “firsts” can be so difficult, as you can imagine or personally understand.

While thinking about my Aunt Deb, late husband Dave, and others, I was sad but also a little encouraged. I know they had a personal relationship with Jesus Christ and are with Him now. Therefore, I can rejoice and not worry. Thank You, Jesus!

Life rarely turns out how we think it will. Despite prayer and living a good, godly life, abundant detours exist! Yet, no matter what happens in this life, those of us who belong to God are safe and secure in Jesus. As someone with a history of fear, this brings me great comfort and boldness.

God’s grace and power cover me. I don’t have to make the ‘safe’ decision out of fear. I can choose to live by faith and freedom, knowing God leads me and holds onto me. He is my safety net and my Defender. This is not a license to be irresponsible, but I don’t have to let fear be my default.

Free Rocks Steps photo and picture

I don’t know what plans we will make this holiday season. There is less emotional tension than in the past, but it also sometimes feels exhausting. It’s just not the same without Dave! Still, I love witnessing Lydia’s joy at seeing snow, singing carols, and opening gifts. God’s goodness is all around us!

Perhaps we will put up our Christmas tree this weekend. Or maybe Christmas trees. Yes, I decided to do something different for this season. Our old tree was so big and heavy, and half the lights did not work anymore. I don’t mind adding lights, but carrying all the pieces up and down the stairs was taking its toll.

So, this year, we are pulling out an older little tree from 2014, when I could not bear to decorate the usual (big) Christmas tree. It made me too sad. But, this year, it feels like another fresh start. Also, I recently bought a couple of even smaller trees on sale, so we will see what happens! We might have a Christmas forest now, who knows?!

If you are missing someone this season, take heart. Draw close to Jesus and cling to His peace. You are deeply loved, and He will not leave you on your own. Rest in Him; leave all the tasks for later. You are safe, and you are secure.

Being flexible in your approach is key. You may jump right into old traditions, try something new, or lay low and avoid it all. Do whatever you need to keep moving forward.

**********

God, thanks for giving us Your grace and peace. Thanks for not leaving us when times get tough. May we keep our eyes on You each day. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Have you already started decorating for Christmas, or do you ease into it after Thanksgiving? What is your favorite part of the holiday season?

Task: Come to Jesus with all your emotions this holiday season. He is your Hope and Victory and knows exactly what you need. (Also, if you have time, listen to this song: “Still Waters,” by Leanna Crawford.)

Posted on in Books and Movies I Like, Fear/Don't Fake Brave, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Pivot, Words

Words Can Change Your Brain

I recently saw both a social media post and an article about a book, Words Can Change Your Brain. Certain neuroscientists have conducted several studies, and the book compiles part of their research. One quote stuck out to me: “A single word has the power to influence the expression of genes that regulate physical and emotional stress.”

The post mentioned how any negative word or phrase you think or say during a workout (or trial) makes stress hormones in your body, hindering your progress. Thoughts of worry, fear, or inferiority can scramble neurochemicals and reinforce what you are thinking. In this context, the word “NO” shuts things down. “I can’t. This is too hard.” Our brain does not correctly distinguish between fact and fantasy – it just assumes the worst, that there is a valid threat!

However, one positive word can make all the difference. For example, “YES” is full of possibilities! It reduces stress and turns on genes and neurochemicals for our well-being. We make more adrenaline, dopamine, epinephrine, and endorphins to help us overcome the challenge.

Over the weekend, I applied this to lifting weights and found it helpful! I felt good and did more reps than usual with a higher weight. I will keep it in mind moving forward!

This made me think of other reasons to check our thoughts. Our brain chooses either a path of faith or fear. It cannot choose both at the same time. “YES” often correlates with faith, while “NO” tends to run with fear. I’m not talking about those times when we need to set healthy boundaries but rather when trying something new, which can be scary! We must face our fear to move past it.

Instead of ruminating on our thoughts (negative or positive), we can meditate on God’s Word. There are so many wonderful verses… His Word is the best!

Here are some faith-filled Scripture verses to consider:

John 1:1-5 (NIV), “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 He was with God in the beginning. 3 Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made. 4 In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. 5 The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.”

Romans 8:31 (NIV), “What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?”

2 Corinthians 1:20 (NIV), “For no matter how many promises God has made, they are ‘Yes’ in Christ. And so through him the ‘Amen’ is spoken by us to the glory of God.”

Ephesians 3:20-21 (NIV), “Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, 21 to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever! Amen.”

1 John 4:18 (NIV), “There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love.

God, in His infinite wisdom, programmed our brains to run on faith, love, joy, peace, and hope. We can trust that He has good things in store for us. He is our YES and AMEN. We don’t have to choose fear!

**********

Heavenly Father, thanks for taking such good care of us. Thanks for teaching us Your ways. Help us keep moving forward in faith; may we stand firm against fear. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Question: What is your favorite Bible verse? How can you use it to grow your faith?

Tasks: Replace fearful thoughts with faith-filled thoughts. Next time you face a challenge, say “YES” and watch God’s power work through you!

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

Cornerstone

Lately, I have noticed a subtle shift in my house. It is a good and natural thing, but it has surprised me. I recognized it this week, which helped deal with it. At least for now!

Basically, I have been a little short with Lydia, and it bothered me. She’s a great kid and doesn’t deserve that. I couldn’t figure out the issues until I prayed about it on the way to work Monday.

I think my feelings of frustration were related to a few factors. First, Lydia is growing more independent. So, she wants to have some say in what we do. I also want this for her, but to do that, I need to let go and let her. And that’s complicated sometimes. 🙂

Part of this is related to “puberty brain.” Normally, Lydia is obedient and reliable. But now, she “forgets” to complete tasks or wants to negotiate. That’s fine sometimes, but I put my foot down this past weekend and reset some boundaries. I know this is just the beginning, and communication will morph over the next few years. Again, this is all normal!

Another factor is that I have been the only adult at home for over a decade, which is a lot of responsibility. And, I have expectations about my house and space! Over time, I have taught Lydia to do various household tasks, but if she doesn’t follow through or moves like a sloth, I either have to do it or reinforce it… again. Both take more time and dilegence.

Free Medieval Castle Detail photo and picture

On Monday, I was also nervous about the timing of things at work. I had two complex patients coming on top of my regular patient load. They were expected to come back to back and had a lot of similarities which I needed to keep straight. I lost a little sleep about this, and so I was just a little grumpy with all that on my mind. 😉

Then, before work, I had to remind Lydia to move her shoes after I tripped on them. She knows not to leave them in the middle of the floor. I yelled out of exasperation and had to apologize. It all worked out, but on my way to work, I prayed and asked God to help me readjust… and as soon as I did, He did a little heart work!

On the radio, I heard a few songs, like Tasha Layton’s “Look What You’ve Done.” There’s a line about God tearing all the roots up from our hearts, getting rid of lies and replacing them with His Truth. I envisioned God taking my fears and grumpiness as I soaked up His love for me.

Then, I heard the song, “Cornerstone” by TobyMac. It was a great reminder of what really matters: Jesus. My identity is found in Christ alone, not in if the dishes get done (or if Lydia remembers them or not).

Jesus is my cornerstone, the perfect foundation. My security is found in Him. He is my hope, my joy, my peace. Jesus encompasses all I am, and His expectation is that I walk with Him. His mercy and grace cover all I do. No more, no less.

As Psalm 73:26 says, “My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.” Life can quickly change, and no two days are alike. If we let our circumstances or emotions run the show, we’ll keep spiraling out of control. One minute, we are “happy” when things go our way, and the next, we are losing our temper over towels left in the dryer. Ahem.

We can’t always predict how things will go, but we can run to God, who is our Rock. He is strong and steady, a sure place to land. He is the only thing that matters in the end.

I know the Lord will keep working in my heart and household. I have invited Him in and give Him full reign (sometimes hour by hour!). I am excited to see what Jesus does in me and who Lydia becomes in Him.

So today, instead of getting bent out of shape, I will let God shape me. He is the beginning and the end and knows all things. His plans for me are good and trustworthy! He can use any challenge for His purposes. Nothing is impossible for Him!

**********

God, thanks for being my foundation, my cornerstone. Thanks for the reminder that I am not in control and don’t need to be! Help me trust You more and let You direct my path. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Questions: Are you relying on God to steady you this week? How has He come through for you lately?

Task: Let God strip away everything that is not of Him. It is painful at times, but worth it! Check out this final song I heard on the radio, which helped tie everything together, “One Thing Remains” by Passion ft Kristian Stanfill.