Tag: gifts

Posted on in Fruit, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Wisdom, Worship

Twenty-four Seven

I am still working on scribing the Gospel of John. I’ve only got a handful of chapters left, and it should be fairly straight forward. I had planned to do it every day but realized I wanted to take more time and really soak up those truths.

Recently, I spent a lot of time in John 15 and 16. One of my favorite passages of scripture is John 15:5, in which Jesus says, “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.”

It is important to regularly evaluate the status of our relationship with Jesus. If we are walking in step with him, we will bear fruit. The Holy Spirit cultivates an abundance of high quality, life-giving fruit in our lives (if we cooperate with Him).

Spiritual fruit can be seen in many ways.

The fruits of the Holy Spirit are love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, gentleness, faithfulness, and self-control. How each of us portrays those character qualities, however, can be as different as our personalities, stage of life, and zipcodes.

Spiritual fruit is not the ‘Midas touch’ of everything turning to gold or going our way. Fruit takes a lot of perseverance. Often, it takes conscious effort to not give up or get ahead of God.

Jesus is the vine, and we are merely the branches. We have to yield to His control and grow on His terms. Thankfully, Jesus sent us the Holy Spirit to help.

In John 16:13-14, Jesus says, “When he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth. He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come. He will glorify me because it is from me that he will receive what he will make known to you.”

The Holy Spirit is such a wonderful gift. To start, He is our advocate, helper, and comforter. He empowers us with wisdom, courage, and grace through the pruning process.

The Holy Spirit teaches us about Jesus and how to implement the Bible into our lives. He convicts us when we do wrong, and leads us back to Jesus when we stray. As we yield to His authority in our lives, He even makes our relationships run in harmony and peace.

Any time we need help, all we have to do is ask. God is right there with us to guide us through it. If you are feeling blah or hopeless today or feeling confused or stagnant, don’t worry. The Holy Spirit is available to every believer 24/7. He will encourage you and lead to the truth. Draw close to Him!

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Holy Spirit, thanks for Your continual presence. Thanks for the work You do in our lives and all around us. Tune our ears to Your voice. Help us walk in truth and grace. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Do you recognize the Holy Spirit at work within you? Do you check in with him frequently?

Tasks: Invite the Holy Spirit into whatever activities you are doing. Also, read The Holy Spirit: An Introduction by John Bevere.

Posted on in Being Gracious, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Wisdom

Holy Help

For most of February, I’ve been in contact with customer support at one of my favorite fitness companies. Unfortunately, I had several issues that were not easily resolved!

Previously, I received a special voucher for a new fitness tracking device…

I have had one for several years, with minimal problems, so I thought I would get one for Lydia. She loved the idea and we discussed how it could be a fun tool for her.

Note: Lydia does not have access to any of the technology—I am the one logging in for her and seeing the information, so it doesn’t become a problem or obsession for her.

Technically, Lydia may be a little young for her own device, but they do have one model available for her age group. I had planned to give her a fitness tracker for her next birthday, but this opportunity came a little earlier. We decided to try it out.

First, I asked about getting the children’s device, but it was not included in the voucher requirements. I called both companies to see if they could agree to add the device I wanted… and was on hold for at least an hour altogether. Nope.

Eventually, I decided to get Lydia the adult device. It is essentially the same as the children’s version, but with a few more ‘bells and whistles.’

To my surprise, the device has not worked well for Lydia. It doesn’t track data correctly and does not charge or sync correctly. So disappointing.

Over the last few weeks, I have called customer service 5 times about the device, trying to make it work. I have been on the phone for at least three hours total.

I have emailed three times asking questions and replying. At least they’ve been polite…

I could focus on the problem and remain frustrated. I could feel sorry for myself, or I could throw a fit and make threats.

But thankfully, with Jesus, our problems don’t stand a chance! He has the final authority and has already done the difficult work. It is finished.

When we have needs, we can come to Him at any time. Most of the time, life isn’t easy or fair, but Jesus is available day and night. He takes our burdens and eases our pain.

Jesus leads by example, excelling in both service and support. He has our back and keeps us on track. He doesn’t leave us to fend for ourselves, but through His Word and the Holy Spirit, He teaches us how we should live.

Sometimes I have to wait for the resolution, but the Lord always hears me and answers my prayers. True, my prayers may not be answered quite how I want—but He wisely gives me exactly what I need.

The Lord’s love is not something we have to earn. I don’t have to beg or bargain with Him. It is freely given. The Lord is gracious and does not give me junk!

Jesus always comes through for me and gives me what is BEST.

Sometimes I can prolong my struggles if I am not obedient, but Jesus never changes the rules halfway through. He doesn’t make it difficult or make me jump through hoops.

He is the same yesterday, today, and forever.

Finally, after a month of my patience levels being tested, I finally succeeded in ordering a replacement (yesterday). I am trusting God that this one will work correctly!

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Father God, thanks for all You do for me. Thanks for faithfully leading me to Victory. Please continue to refine me and build patience. Help me be kind to others, even when I am frustrated. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Question: Do you have any tips for getting through customer service with minimal frustration?

Task: Listen to “More Like Falling in Love” by Jason Gray.

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

Heartbeat of Heaven

Recently, Lydia and I talking in the car on our way to an evening activity. At some point, Lydia wondered out loud, “Mom, can you imagine how BIG God’s heart must be?!”

She then excitedly exclaimed that God’s heart is bigger than our car, bigger than the apartment we drove by, bigger than any mountain or ocean, and even bigger than the MOON!

We had a good laugh at all the possibilities, and it prompted more conversation about God’s love. I love her perspective.

Sometimes, as adults, we have a hard time remembering or understanding God’s love for us. Somewhere along the way, we may lose our childlike excitement for Jesus or find it hard to believe.

Little doubts creep in telling us that we are not good enough or that there’s no way God could love us for how we’ve behaved.

Or perhaps in the busyness of life, we just put Him on the shelf and forget He is there. We occasionally dust off that relationship out of guilt, but then put it back until next time.

But if we really understood how big God’s heart is we would run to Him… we would accept His forgiveness and grace with gratitude and joy.

We would also understand the depth of His love.

Lately, I have seen God’s heart in new opportunities. I have seen Him direct me in new ways and I have taken some steps of faith.

I am excited to see what He has in store for me!

I’ve also seen God’s heart in answers to prayer. Sometimes the answers take a while to come and sometimes they are seen right away.

But when we understand God’s heart for us, we are content to go at His pace.

We can trust His timing!

God’s heart is for us and not against us. He’s always there, even when we don’t “feel” His presence. He wants to be invited into our day so He can share all that is on His heart.

Come, Lord, Jesus!

It’s great if you can find a quiet place to linger with Jesus, but if not, just talk to Him wherever you are. He loves you so much. His heart beats strong for you!

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Heavenly Father, thank You for loving us so much. Help us seek your sweet and refreshing grace. May we understand Your heart for us and others. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Have you ever considered how big God is…or how big His heart must be?! How does that realization make you feel?

Tasks: Make a list of all the ways God loves you and blesses you. Praise Him! Listen to this song: “Nobody Loves Me Like You Do” sung by Chris Tomlin.

Posted on in Being Gracious, Miscellaneous, Prayer, Worship

Niceness Is Not Enough

Last Friday night, Lydia and I volunteered with Feed My Starving Children, an organization which works to alleviate hunger and poverty around the world. FMSC operates entirely on donations and volunteers to purchase and pack the foods.

Then, they partner with a network of other organizations to distribute food to those in need. They don’t “just give handouts” but focus on sustainability too.

It’s been a while since I’ve worn a hair net… but that night was worth it! It was good for Lydia to realize how privileged she is… and a great reminder for me as well.

Lydia and I rotated through several positions. We opened, filled, weighed, and sealed packets of food. One packet, when rehydrated, will serve up to 6 people for one meal. One box has 36 meal packets (vitamin blend, dehydrated vegetables, texturized soy protein, and rice).

During our two-hour shift, 1,272 volunteers filled 1,367 boxes. (49,212 packets or 295,272 meals) That will feed 809 kids for a year!

As a dietitian, nutrition and hunger issues are near to my heart. Yet on any given day, thanks in part to social media, I am reminded of so many other areas of great concern. Abortion, racism, national security, rising healthcare costs, the economy, and environmental issues are some that come to mind.

Generally speaking, all of these issues are outside the scope of this blog. I don’t like the arguing that political drama often produces. But that does not mean I am doing nothing.

Prayer is the greatest thing we can do because that invites God’s presence and power into the situation. So we definitely need to start there. Seek God first!

But often, Christians are tempted to stop with prayer. We say, “I’ll pray for you!” and then we go on our merry way. But, Jesus didn’t just pray, He reached out. He healed, helped, comforted, challenged, defended, and forgave. He was practical.

In terms of prayer, we have access to Jesus at any time… but the world doesn’t. They are still separated from God’s love and mercy. So it seems, they need to see “proof” that Jesus cares for them before they trust Him.

As Christians, we are God’s ambassadors. People who don’t know Jesus are watching those of us who do. So, right or wrong, everything we do is subject to scrutiny.

Often, we want to be ‘nice’ to everyone… but niceness is not enough.

One day, each of us will have to give an account for how we used the gifts God has given us. I want to hear, “Well done, my good and faithful servant.” Let’s offer our best!

At other times, we feel everyone needs to be put in their place. There are times when we do need to address truth and morality, yes. But we can handle it graciously. Jesus was filled with grace and truth (John 1:17).

Instead of complaining about issues or judging people, we should be willing to help. Loving others may look different for each of us, and that’s okay. Let’s be the Jesus the world needs to see.

Here are some practical ways we can reach out to others (in no particular order).

  • Donate money to a cause or organization you believe in. Do research it and make sure it is legitimate. You can also fundraise by running a race, selling homemade items, etc. Check out Save the Storks and Redemption Road Ministries.
  • Donate supplies and deliver them locally where needed. This could include clothes, school supplies, toiletries, or furniture. Call ahead and see what is needed most. Consider homeless shelters, recovery centers, or crisis pregnancy centers. Used items may be acceptable, but also consider purchasing new.
  • Your time is also a wonderful gift. Churches, animal shelters, nursing homes and hospitals all need help (in addition to the places in #2). If you have a special skill, be creative in how you use it! Another option is Habitat for Humanity.
  • Mentor someone. You don’t have to have it all figured out already. Just step up and lend a hand or encouraging word. Share your experiences… and be consistent.
  • Sponsor someone. It could be a child in an international program like Compassion International or World Vision. Locally, you may look into Big Brother/Sister program. Or, help out a public school teacher or a college student far from home.
  • Call or send a card to someone. An encouraging word is always welcome! Tell someone they are doing a good job. Even if it is a frazzled parent in the grocery aisle.
  • Offer practical hands-on support. This may include babysitting, raking leaves, mowing, painting, or house cleaning. Pick up garbage or recycling. Wash a car.
  • Consider opening your home to someone in need. I had a (trusted) friend stay with me for 6 months while she got her life back in order. Maybe God is calling you to foster or adopt a child? (No pressure… be wise and pray!)

  • Have a conversation with people who are different than you (race, beliefs, food habits, goals, etc). Better yet, share a meal with them. Really get to know them.
  • Write a letter to advocate for a cause. Instead of protesting, use your words to persuade. Raise awareness. Also, don’t forget to contact those in Congress… and vote!!
  • Learn more about the issues at hand. Put yourself in someone else’s shoes and see it from their perspective. Chances are, you will have a more rounded view.
  • Talk to your kids about important issues. As a parent, you are their first teacher. Have honest conversations about pros/cons. Role play and model the behavior you want them to learn. Get them involved serving with you!
  • Make generosity a daily habit. Be kind to the cashiers at the grocery store. Help your neighbors clear snow. Make or buy treats for your coworkers.
  • Help a single mom (or any mom!). She may need a ride, dinner, or a break. Offer to watch her kids during an appointment or help with home maintenance. Take her family out for a movie…or ice cream! Check out Jeremiah Program and consider making a donation to help a single mom get ahead.
  • Celebrate a friend’s successes. Doing this over coffee or lunch is a bonus! Listen to their ups and downs without offering advice (unless they ask for it).
  • Smile while you serve. A smile is understood in every language. It doesn’t cost anything but can mean so much. It can cross all kinds of barriers! Let Jesus’ love shine on your face with joy!

There are so many ways to be a servant. That will look different for each of us. I used to get stuck in my perfectionism, but I was recently reminded that no gift is too small or silly. Something is better than nothing in this case.

We don’t need to compare what we give or do for others… in fact most of us don’t want any recognition at all! It may be easy to give…or it may require sacrifice. It doesn’t have to be extreme, but if we serve with a good attitude, we honor Jesus.

As we pray AND serve others, God’s grace overflows in us and through us!

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Jesus, You are the Servant King, full of grace and truth. Thanks for loving us and giving everything for us. Help us lay down our lives for Your glory. Open our eyes and hearts to the needs around us. Let us share Your love with those around us. In Your Name, Amen

Question: What are your favorite ways to serve? (I’d love to add to my list!!)

Tasks: Pray for wisdom and look for people and places to serve. Make a list and choose to do at least one act of kindness every day.

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Miscellaneous

Finding Grace #146

I love giving God a shout out for what He has done. We don’t do that nearly enough!

You may have seen the acronym GRACE as God’s Riches At Christ’s Expense. Grace is also God’s unmerited favor, or God doing for us what we cannot.

I find grace overflowing with God’s love, joy, peace, blessings, mercy, power, provision, protection, and wisdom. Thank You, Jesus!

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

This was a productive week! My mother-in-law was here through Monday, and we celebrated Dave’s 40th birthday that day. We celebrated by shopping and going to lunch! Then, Lydia and Gramma went swimming after school. It was a good day, and we had fun. I know Dave is proud of us.

I worked Tuesday through Thursday, which means I can take next week off! On Friday, I went to a holiday craft event at Lydia’s school where we made ornaments. Now we are both off until January 2nd!

After an early dismissal from school yesterday, Lydia and I went to get an oil change and tune up for my car. We sat at the dealership for three hours because I wanted to get the preventative maintenance done before my coupon expired! 🙂 Thankfully, Lydia didn’t complain as we enjoyed snacks and Nat Geo shows on cable television. We even met a friendly older gentleman who was just as excited about “Jaguars vs. Crocs” as we were!

I was able to squeeze in several errands yesterday, so today, Lydia and I relaxed at home. We slept in, made some Christmas cookies, and watched a couple holiday movies. It’s just what we needed! Happy Holidays!

I’m grateful for how God always directs our path and blesses us. He is so good!

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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, Miscellaneous, Wisdom, Worship

Win-Win!!

Sometimes, Life lessons are set into motion long before we need them…

Last year, my mom bought Lydia a pretty new winter coat. The pattern has navy blue and peach hearts with a pair of peach-colored snow pants. Lydia liked it last year, but it was too big.

She continued to wear her old winter coat until this week when we realized she had grown out of it and made the swap. Lydia’s new coat is still slightly big, but it will work well for her. I’m grateful my mom found a deal!

The old blue coat has a huge hole in one pocket and a couple holes elsewhere. The sleeves are also too short and have seen better days. Instead of giving the old coat away, I decided to toss it.

Then, to my surprise, Lydia was absurdly thrilled about getting rid of the coat! She started talking about how bad the old coat had become, how she didn’t even like it anymore, and how she was happy to be “done” with it.

This struck me because I knew how much she loved the coat originally. It was a huge blessing when she received it. So naturally, I turned it into a teaching moment. 🙂

I said, “Lydia, don’t forget that old coat served you well. I bought it for you and it kept you warm for two winters! It was a gift you really needed. Don’t you ever hold an old blessing in contempt because you got a new one…”

I didn’t want Lydia to take it for granted or to miss the point. So, I grabbed the coat out of the garbage and decided Lydia could use it for her outdoor play coat. Thankfully, she agreed with me because she plays outside regularly and this will also preserve the new coat. Win-win!

Winter coats are just one example, but I wonder how many times I do the same thing.

It’s certainly good to look forward to upcoming opportunities. In Life, growth is vital, and we will inevitably grow out of some things and into others. At the same time, it seems careless to ditch the old so we can grab the new. We need to find balance.

The difference is gratitude.

When God blesses me with something new, wonderful! Chances are good I will be expecting it based on how He has already prepared me. What a gift!

But, if I am discontent and just searching for what is new, bright or shiny, I risk leaving behind all the lessons I learned… On my own, I will miss the point.

Let’s not despise what God has already done for us. His blessings—both old and new—are just as abundant as His grace. Let’s be grateful for how God has lead us thus far and trust Him as we move forward! Another win-win!

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Heavenly Father, thanks for all the blessings You give us! Thank You for Jesus, the best gift ever. Help us find balance as we grow. Keep us focused on what is most important: You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Question: When anticipating something new, do you find yourself patient or impatient?

Task: In this holiday season of giving and getting, make sure to put Jesus first… the rest will work out as we trust in Him!

Posted on in Fear/Don't Fake Brave, Journey of Grace, Miscellaneous, Wisdom, Worship

Keep It Simple, Sweetheart

This Christmas season, like many people, I am trying to stay on top of my to-do list. At times, it is a little overwhelming, and yes, I could use more sleep! 🙂

But all things considered, this year feels different.

Instead of my heart feeling heavy with grief, I’m excited and coping well. Praise God!

Perhaps all those years of intense grief have been helpful after all because I have learned the art of doing less.

This year, I’ve been doing more of what makes me glad. With so many possibilities, I’ve decided to simplify.

When possible, I’ve opted out of stressful activities that don’t add to the holiday spirit. At the same time, I’ve tried new things, such as putting up outdoor Christmas lights!

Lydia and I have been enjoying Christmas music and holiday movies, decorating our tree, and sampling yummy treats! She has played in the mounds of snow with her friends, while I’ve enjoyed coffee dates with mine.

I’ve also opened my house to a handful of people who don’t have family nearby.

We have a list of fun winter activities that we would like to do, such as sledding and seeing holiday lights. As usual, Lydia’s excitement is contagious!

Thankfully, I’ve learned to appreciate rest and don’t have crazy expectations. I know my limitations and try not to overextend myself. I’m grateful for how far God has brought me and Lydia!

With all the hustle and bustle, it could be easy to forget Jesus, the reason we are celebrating in the first place! By staying present with Him, I can enjoy the true gift He is:

Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and Prince of Peace

Friend, if you are going through a tough season of grief, let me remind you of the KISS principle: Keep It Simple, Sweetheart. 🙂 There is no need to “fake brave.”

Grief looks different for all of us, and each year brings unique challenges. It does improve eventually, but all those emotions need to run their course so you can keep moving forward.

For now, do what you need to do—no more and no less. Whether that means showing up or staying home, ask God to direct your path and show you His goodness.

Look for the gift of God’s grace…. Jesus!! He is a wonderful savior and friend.

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Heavenly Father, thank You for Jesus. What a precious gift! Be with those who are hurting this season. Show them just how much you love them and bring them peace. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Question: What are your favorite Christmas traditions?

Tasks: Do something special for someone who needs encouragement this season. Pray with them, invite them over for dinner, help them decorate (or clean!), or listen to them talk of their loved one. Even a small act of kindness can mean so much to someone who is hurting.

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Miscellaneous

Finding Grace #139

I love giving God a shout out for what He has done. We don’t do that nearly enough!

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 had some interesting surprises, but I saw God at work all around me!

On Sunday, Lydia went to play with the neighbor boys across the street. She ended up going inside with them for a movie and dinner! I was grateful to have that unexpected time to myself. I called my sister, worked on a project and prepped food for our week.

Monday was a good day to get ahead for the week. I ran some errands, did some housework, and finished an audiobook. It was a good day to be productive!

Wednesday was Halloween. After work, Lydia and I had JBQ at church, so it was our first year of not passing out candy to our neighbors. Even though I don’t love Halloween, I did miss seeing all of our neighbors! Thankfully, Lydia still got some candy and played games with her friends at church. It was a good day overall.

On Thursday, I received a large package in the mail. The box was from my mom and was filled with goodies. She sent me some treats, jewelry, foodie gifts, and some little foxes (house decor). It was such a fun surprise!

I had allotted time on Thursday and Friday to work on a project, but ended up having a few meetings with people instead. As a result,I had a few cool opportunities presented to me. Now I’m praying about each new thing because I want to make sure they are ‘God opportunities.’ I’m thankful for how He directs our steps.

Tonight, we turn back our clocks one hour! (Don’t forget!) I’m looking forward to the extra hour of sleep… unless I get distracted and just stay up later instead! 😉

Where did you find God’s grace?

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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 Fear/Don't Fake Brave, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Wisdom

Choose Joy

I have previously written about a choice we have to make between fear and faith. Choosing faith is about consistently trusting Jesus and not giving in to fear. If it were easy, everyone would do it! 🙂

Another choice we can make is between joy and misery. I don’t always remember that I have a choice in how I feel…but I do have a choice. I can’t control the outcome or situation, but I can control how I react…

So lately, I have been being more proactive—planning ahead of time what my ‘reaction’ will be in a given situation. I think about my day in terms of all the choices and activities I face.

I choose between getting up early or sleeping in. I also choose my attitude each morning when getting myself and Lydia ready for the day. I consider all the people I will see and influence through conversations. I even think about what I’m going to have for lunch or dinner, and the fact that I need to go to the store at some point.

Not all of these will go as I imagine, and that’s to be expected. Quite often, life seems upside down. There will be some surprises!

But instead of making my emotions the center, I focus my heart on Jesus. This helps me not attach my faith to the outcome…but to Jesus alone.

He is the one who determines my steps.

Ultimately, my ‘success’ is not measured by the world’s standards. It comes down to if I am obedient to God, to follow His instructions. And that takes work…effort.

As such, I aim to go to sleep at a certain time. I tell Lydia how much I love her. I choose to pray for my patients before I get to work. I do my best with what I have.

Yet, there is one more way I can prepare myself for success: I can choose joy ahead of time. Or, at the very least I can choose not to be miserable, by having a good attitude and not complaining!! There is joy in serving the Lord!

Happiness is linked to whether our environment is pleasing to us. Happiness, while certainly good, is based on emotions. It is subject to change based on what happens.

Cue the emotional roller coaster…when times get tough!

Joy is more internal, not dependent on outward circumstances, which can change quite rapidly. Joy is a fruit of the Spirit and is from God. It’s not optimism or positivity, as nice as those are. Joy comes when God fortifies us with His strength.

Joy shines most brightly in the midst of trials. Choosing joy comes with trusting God and stepping forward in faith. Joy is invaluable. It’s not always easy, but choosing faith, joy, and Jesus is always worth it!

Neither faith nor joy is easy all the time. If they were, we wouldn’t struggle—and we wouldn’t need Jesus. There will be tough days ahead…guaranteed.

But by God’s grace, we have made it through every other tough day so far. And praise God, we can keep moving forward in joy and faith…even if we don’t feel like it!

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God, thank You for being with us in each trial. Thanks for leading us and preparing the way. Help us not get stuck in our emotions, but move forward with wisdom, courage, faith, joy, and grace. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Do you consider yourself ‘joyful’? Why or why not?

Tasks: Listen to “Joy” by For King and Country. Make sure you turn it up and dance!

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Miscellaneous

Finding Grace #129

I love giving God a shout out for what He has done. We don’t do that nearly enough!

You may have seen the acronym GRACE as God’s Riches At Christ’s Expense. Grace is also God’s unmerited favor, or God doing for us what we cannot.

I find grace overflowing with God’s love, joy, peace, blessings, mercy, power, provision, protection, and wisdom. Thank You, Jesus!

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

This was another great week filled with God’s grace! My mother in law stayed until Tuesday morning. We always enjoy showing her around town and doing fun activities that we normally forget about! She watched Lydia for me during a meeting on Monday night.

A coworker shared some peaches with me at work, which was an extra blessing to me. The peaches were part of a local fundraiser, but I didn’t get a chance to buy any this season. So, the peaches felt like a personalized gift from God!

We met Lydia’s teacher for this upcoming school year. She seems really nice and Lydia likes her. This is her first year of teaching, and Lydia is excited to have fun learning!

I had some great conversation with friends this week, including one friend who we met for coffee (today). We spent about two hours chatting and catching up. This friend is a bright spot in my life and it was encouraging to hear what God is doing in her life.

This evening, Lydia and I took a bike ride to the splash pad in our neighborhood. We ate a picnic there and then rode back after she was done playing. Then, I weeded a couple areas of my yard while she read some books and played with friends.

It’s been a great week! Thank You, Jesus!!

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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)!

Where did you find God’s grace this week?