Tag: no excuses

Posted on in Books and Movies I Like, Fear, Faith, and Moving Forward book, Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Gratitude, Miscellaneous, Parenting, Perseverance, Personality

Finding Grace #309

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!

Travel, Tourism, Park, Spa, Relax, Source, Gazebo

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

This week started off a little shaky but ended well! Praise God! Early on, I was having technical difficulties with my internet. I had to manage my emotions and calm down. I was still able to post my blog for Wednesday, but I had to jump through a few extra hoops. Thankfully, on Friday, the internet company came and updated a few wires and such. It was very out of sync but now it is working very fast and very well!

This week, I was pleased to receive more compliments about my book. In one case, I called to make a routine appointment and the person on the other end was reading it! She said it was good to understand the challenges we faced, but she also appreciated how I regularly turned the story back to God. It is fun to hear from a variety of people and see how God is using my pain for His glory!

Today, Lydia and I relaxed at home. We made a breakfast casserole, and later, some cookies. We told jokes, read books, and made a music playlist with Oldies favorites with family input. We also played a game and watched a movie, which seems to be our winter-weather go to these days! 🙂 We really don’t mind!

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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, Faith, and Moving Forward book, Fear/Don't Fake Brave, Gratitude, Journey of Grace, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Perseverance

Small, But Significant

I am reading through the Chronological Bible again this year, and so I find myself in the book of Job. Even though it is full of suffering, it is also quite rich when we see it tied to purpose and perspective!

In short, Job was a wealthy and generous man who lost everything in a matter of hours. His sons, daughters, servants, and most of his property were gone. Soon, his health was attacked, too. How miserable!

It seems Job felt vulnerable and misunderstood, and it probably felt like God had forgotten him. I know how that feels, and maybe you do, too!

To make matters worse, Job had no support! His wife said he should curse God and die. Even his friends were awful, though perhaps they had a few good things to say. Yet, mostly they chided Job, thinking he must’ve brought all his tragedy on himself (that God was punishing him). With friends like Job’s, who needs enemies?!

Aurora Borealis, Northern Lights, Aurora, Northern

Now, we could spend our time comparing stories of how certain parts of our lives remind us of Job. But, to be honest, most of us haven’t suffered so many losses in such a short time. Though, it sure feels that way sometimes!

Either way, I don’t want to minimize our collective sorrow, and there is no contest here. Instead of one-upping each other with grief stories, let’s love one another.

As a reminder, there are many kinds of loss, including finances, divorce, death, unfulfilled expectations or dreams, and more. Each is difficult, and we all need Jesus.

Thankfully, our suffering is not for nothing. There is usually so much more going on behind the scenes. Still, God will use our pain for a new purpose. We can trust Him, and He won’t let us down.

Aurora, Polar Lights, Northern Lights, Aurora Borealis

Here are a few takeaways from Job so far: Despite all the calamity, pain, and doubts, Job kept working out his faith. Thus, he also had hope. He said, “I know my redeemer lives…”

Job lived around the time of Genesis. So even before salvation was here (Jesus Christ), He trusted God even when he could not see.

God Himself said Job was blameless and upright; there was no one like him. But still, he suffered major losses.

As Job later found out, he and everything he knew was quite small compared to God’s majesty and wisdom! Indeed, I love the end of Job when it’s God’s turn to defend Himself.

I find myself smiling at God’s questions to Job about creation and the natural world. An example, in my paraphrase: Have you seen the ostrich I made? She’s a terrible mom and kind of spacey… but wow, she’s a great runner! 😉 See the actual verses in context here!

Yet, through His discourse, God reminds Job (and us) that He has everything under control. In fact, the book of Job is less about his suffering and more about God’s character.

When suffering occurs, it is easy to focus on our problem and forget that God is greater and above it all. But in Job, we see though we are small, we are significant to God.

Whatever you are going through today, remember you are not alone. It may be the fight of your life, but God sees you. God hears you. He is with you and for you. Let Him comfort and carry you today.

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God, amid sorrow and suffering, draw me close. When I can’t bear the burden, help me bring it to You. Be my strength and comfort and peace. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: When you think of all the losses you have faced, can You see how God carried you through? How does that knowledge help you in your current circumstances?

Task: Listen to this song, but Nicole C. Mullen. It’s a classic!

Posted on in Being Gracious, Fear, Faith, and Moving Forward book, Fear/Don't Fake Brave, Gratitude, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Wisdom

Grace Upon Grace

A couple of weeks ago, someone sent me a link to a short message about Mary, the mother of Jesus. It was by an evangelist named Brent Carr.

Interestingly, the little blurb mentioned Mary was “highly favored” and then described all the difficulties she faced. She was nearly divorced, rejected by her community, gave birth in a stable, and so on. The author’s point was that favor may imply blessing, but it doesn’t imply an easy road.

Mr. Carr wrote, “Favor never looks like favor at first. Favor sometimes takes you through frustration, failure, and fear.” I can certainly relate to all three of those!

In the Bible, the word for favor is linked with grace (see the word: chairs). I prefer using the word grace, but favor reminds me of the word ‘favorite.’ I imagine God smiling down at me, not necessarily to give me everything I want, but to make sure I have everything I need.

Like buying a new snowblower… but still having to use it! 😉

God’s grace, or favor, isn’t always obvious. It’s sometimes intangible, like knowing God is with us or trusting Him to protect us or provide for us. Usually, it involves a situation that makes us test, or prove, those truths. Yes, our struggles can show us God’s love and grace.

Lately, resting in God’s grace has meant taking off work a few days to let Lydia recover from an illness. Favor means not worrying about my workload when I get back… I am glad for a good team to cover for me, though I usually like to be the one offering to help!

Grace has meant keeping the house calm and peaceful for Lydia, but also knowing there are benefits for me, too. My to-do list is neverending, so it has been good for me not to push too hard in the last week. Instead, I was able to rest, too. We watched some television, but we also read and napped.

On Monday, Lydia still wasn’t 100%, so I took another day off from work (in addition to Wednesday/Thursday last week). Her doctor was closed because of blizzardy weather, so I took it as a sign to stay home, safe and warm. Indeed, her daycare (the Y) opened late and closed early, so I would’ve missed most of work anyway!

It’s good to know when to rest, but it’s also good to know when to push ourselves forward. If God makes the opportunity clear, we can trust He will provide. Even if we don’t have all the answers or know all the details.

So, yesterday, Lydia felt marginally better, still coughing and a little lethargic but fever-free! I knew that we needed to try and make it to work and daycare. We got all ready and were in the car, only to find out my car battery had died!

I sent Lydia inside to rest and stay warm, while I texted a couple of friends for input. One of them asked if I had a charger. I hadn’t thought about it, but God brought to mind something I had walked by dozens of times. Sure enough, I DID have a car battery charger! By God’s grace, Dave had bought one years ago, and I was able to figure out how to use it.

Of course, I rolled into work late, but even then, there was grace and favor. After dropping off Lydia, I stopped to buy a new car battery since mine was 8+ years old. (The average lifespan of a car battery is two to five years, so that’s another level of grace!) The third store had what I needed, and a sales associate kindly agreed to help me install it. Never mind the temperature was several degrees below zero!

Reflecting on all of this, I am grateful we didn’t have to cancel many plans while Lydia was sick. It was a holiday break but we celebrated in Illinois earlier in the month. I am also thankful I didn’t go out on Monday and have my car die then. God knew it would not be good for us to be stuck on the road with a dead battery, all while Lydia wasn’t feeling well! Plus, I was able to use some Christmas money I received to pay for the battery! Bonus!

John 1:16 says God gives us grace upon grace. Instead of focusing on our problems, let’s focus on Jesus and trust Him to be all we need. Come to Him with a heart full of gratitude!

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Father God, thank You for your grace. You take such good care of us.

Questions: Where do you see God’s grace and favor in your life this week? Have you stopped to thank Him or tell someone how gracious He is?

Tasks: Whatever you are doing, pause and praise God! In good times and bad, thank Him for the goodness and grace He brings to your life!

 

Posted on in Fear, Faith, and Moving Forward book, Gratitude, Journey of Grace, Kindness, Miscellaneous, Parenting, Perseverance, Wisdom

Thanksgiving Thoughts

Tomorrow is Thanksgiving, which is one of my favorite holidays. Growing up, my family had some fun traditions. I always enjoyed taking a few moments to say what we are thankful for. We often went to the movies, and we almost always had an extra guest or two around the table.

We haven’t had a big family Thanksgiving for a few years because now we live in four different states in three time zones! So, generally, Thanksgiving and other holidays do look a little different for Lydia and me.

If you flip back to some of my 2015 and 2016 blog posts around the holidays, you would see more emotion and grief. I’m grateful to be a little further out from all that now. God has brought us through so much!

Sometimes we get invited to spend the holidays with other families, but this year, they all have different plans. We have invited friends over to our house in the past, but this year, we are on our own. And that’s okay! Traditions are good, but so is flexibility.

Lydia and I are planning to cook our favorite foods and maybe go to the movies. Or, maybe we will play games and stay in our pajamas instead. Either way, I know God’s grace surrounds us, and I am grateful for all He is and all He has done.

I’m also thankful for the gigantic Costco pumpkin pie a friend left on my doorstep! 😉

Cake, Pastry, Sweet, Sugar, Unhealthy, Food, Fat, Diet

This season, I am excited to have my book, Fear, Faith, and Moving Forward, out in the world. This is the first holiday in about seven years that I don’t have to think about writing or editing in my free time! Woohoo!!

I am already amazed to see how God is using it, too. I’ve heard stories of people wanting nothing to do with God now open to reading my book. His love never fails!

I love that people are buying extras to give as gifts. I’m grateful people trust me to speak into the lives of those they love… even before they have read the book! 🙂

I understand the holidays can be sad for many people, as it is a time to miss loved ones. I have dealt with those same complex emotions. If that’s you, know God is holding you close.

Recently, I met with a few lonely Veterans. They were each coming for help nutritionally but had other issues on their minds. I was able to listen to their stories, acknowledging their grief and other dilemmas, and in the end, I encouraged them to try something new.

One lady decided she might volunteer at a nursing home this year, choosing to be the friend she wishes she had. Perhaps you can be brave and step out of your comfort zone, too. Put yourself out there. God loves you so much, and the best is yet to come!

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God, You are so good and have good things in store for us. Help us be brave and embrace the difficult moments, knowing it can launch us to greater things. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Do you have any special holiday plans? What are you thankful for?

Tasks: Be open-minded regarding your holiday plans. Look for all the ways God is at work around you. Perhaps, looking back, you will see this as a turning point in your life.

Posted on in Fruit, Gratitude, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Personality

Notice the Joy

It’s funny how seasons come and seasons go. Sometimes it seems nothing changes; but sometimes, it seems everything has changed! Often, we just take things for granted and we don’t see anything new. We fail to notice the joy that comes with those new seasons. But, God is always at work, and I believe He is always doing something new in our lives.

Over the last few months and even over just a few short weeks, I have noticed some new things in my life. Most of them are subtle, as new habits are forming. It is good to let go of what is not serving us well anymore. One small change can lead to the next!

Architecture, Skyscraper, Urban, City, Construction

First, my hair has grown a few inches, mostly because I just hadn’t taken time to get it cut. I was busy with work and school and so many other things! But after it grew past the awkward stages, I realized I enjoyed it. I still like it short and have recently gotten a trim, but now I can put it up in a longer ponytail which can be very helpful at times!

Indeed, my morning routine is a little quicker now because I don’t have to help my hair to go under! It takes less work, and I have a few extra minutes in the morning to work on little tasks around the house. A win-win as I embrace the natural outward flip at this length!

Oddly enough, my hair makes me look different in the mirror, but I have seen even more changes internally. Growing out my hair has given me a new perspective on who I am and what I like. It has made me rethink other changes I could make. Being open-minded has helped me see potential in other areas, too!

I am all about creating solid, sustainable habits, but change can be difficult for many of us. Yet, what if we just ease into something new or just try it for a week without a major commitment? What if we challenge ourselves to think differently and trust God for something greater?

Nothing is impossible for God, but often it seems we are holding something back. It could be related to fear, laziness, or just lack of enthusiasm. But remember, the first step is the hardest, and tiny steps in the right direction are still considered movement. Use joy as a motivator because there are built-in rewards that keep us moving forward.

So, another recent change is this: I have changed my morning commute. I was taking the highway, which may be slightly faster but is also more stressful at that hour. First, the morning sun shines in my eyes for several minutes. Second, I find myself subconsciously trying to beat other cars on the road. 🙂

It doesn’t necessarily involve speeding… But, if someone pulls in front of me or is going slower than I like, it irks me. Then, I am trying to get ahold of my attitude before walking into work. It is a small thing, but still a stressor I don’t need or want. So now, I take a parallel journey through town and look forward to the drive.

It has more stoplights, but there is less traffic and we naturally have to go slower. If I leave early enough, I hit mostly green lights, which really boosts my mood! The sun is not in my face as much, but I can still enjoy the fall colors and beautiful sunrises. In fact, I have found more joy in this new route because I feel calmer and can focus.

Yesterday morning, the sunrise was bright orange and purple!

Additionally, I have been parking in the overflow area across the street from work. That way, I always have a spot and don’t have to waste time circling around the usual lot. I also save time getting on the road after work because there are only a few cars leaving at any one time (instead of 50+ cars inching along in the other parking lot). Ironically, the highway is the faster, less stressful route on the way home. And, I have been picking up Lydia five minutes earlier, which feels great!

It does help that I have also switched to a backpack instead of a purse and a lunch box for work. I can walk a little more freely and the weight is carried over by my back rather than my arms and shoulders. Keeping everything in the backpack has also helped to relieve the stress of forgetting something because I can keep things in one place!

After this change, I have incorporated other ideas such as drinking tea at night. I am usually a ‘plain jane’ with tea. I don’t like a lot of flavored options or sweeteners, so lately, just decaf green tea or decaf black tea is fine with me. The joy comes through the process of making and drinking the tea. It is more ritualistic than coffee, which is my daily habit. Another bonus has been that if I am enjoying the tea, I don’t feel the need to have a late-night snack! So, my gut feels better too.

Drinking more tea has led to other changes, too. I have several great pieces of equipment that get regular use, but from one week to the next, I don’t always rotate through them all. In the last few weeks, I have been incorporating different activities into my exercise routine. This has helped me recover faster and avoid burnout while making my goals more achievable.

There are other habit changes I have made, but it’s fun to think they all started with NOT getting a haircut… Perhaps you have made small changes due to COVID or some other circumstances. Don’t give up if you don’t see progress right away! See all that can happen in just a few short months, and let that joy bring creativity and renewed purpose!

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Father God, thanks for helping me take small steps and celebrate small wins. Help me be obedient to all You are asking me to do. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: What is one small lifestyle change you can make this week? Does it scare you or do you feel confident?

Tasks: God gives us His power, as we change and become more like Jesus. If there is an area you are struggling in, ask Him to show you one small thing you can do differently. Then, watch it snowball and gain traction as you celebrate other wins! Check out this worship song: “New Thing” by Hillsong Young & Free

Posted on in Being Gracious, Fear/Don't Fake Brave, Gratitude, Kindness, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Wisdom, Words

Be Bold, Be Brave

I have a friend who recently took a step back from what she was doing to go in a new direction. Society sometimes tells us what to do or not do, but I am proud of my friend for listening to her heart and following her dream.

God can do far more than we ask or imagine (Ephesians 3:20).

But still, it takes guts to go against the grain!

Lake, Mountains, Banff National Park, Islet, Bank

A blessing for her and for anyone who dares to trust God for greater things:

Be bold, be brave! Remember, God is with you and for you!

He is more than able to provide for you with the riches of His grace.

All good gifts come from God. He is the same yesterday, today, and forever.

Breakthrough is coming.

Following God’s plan is sometimes difficult… but it is always worth it.

Work as if it depends on You, and pray as if it depends on Him.

Then, receive what He has for you. He is faithful.

Breakthrough is coming.

Whatever happens, it has passed through God’s hands first.

No good thing will He withhold from those who walk uprightly.

What is for you… is for you. He will give you everything you need. Trust in Him.

Breakthrough is coming.

Don’t be afraid. Do the difficult thing.

God will help you through it and redeem any pain along the way.

Have courage and be willing to try something new.

Breakthrough is coming.

Lay aside your expectations and stand in faith, knowing God’s plan is best.

It may turn out different than you thought, but He will never let you down.

Rest in Him. Nothing is impossible for Him. He’s got this.

Breakthrough is here.

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God, You are King of our hearts and the God of breakthroughs. Nothing is impossible for You! Help us trust You for greater things. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Questions: Have you ever done something so big and life-changing that the only option was to trust God? Looking back, can you see His faithfulness?

Tasks: Print out this blessing and tape it to your mirror, or make your own!

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

Grace In Store

Recently, I went to a local store, which happens to be part of a national chain, to purchase some basic toiletries. I was planning to use a coupon, but I couldn’t find what I was looking for. No worries. I decided to look online instead.

I went to the online store and had everything in my cart to be shipped directly to me. But, then I had to reset my password and my phone app locked up. I was trying to do this quickly and didn’t want to log in to my computer and get distracted late at night.

So, I removed everything from the cart and went to another online big box store. Sure, I could have waited to go in person, but I was just there last week. And, it was bedtime.

Well, that didn’t work so well either! A couple of things were out of stock, and I wanted to have the order delivered rather than pick it up. Otherwise, I would have just gone inside myself!

Supermarket, Ecommerce, Expense, Market, Conad

After once again clearing my cart, I decided to buy from yet another online company… the third time’s a charm! They had slightly different versions of what I was looking for, though I was able to save a few dollars.

Those items might take a little more time to be delivered, but I don’t mind waiting. It was more about convenience and peace of mind. You know, so I don’t have to make another list!

In the end, I sure am glad God does not make us change passwords, log in, log out, and jump through a bunch of hoops before we come to Him. I am grateful He is never offline, and His grace is never out of stock.

God never sleeps nor grows weary. I can rest knowing He is watching out for me, protecting me, and delivering me. He provides for me and sets my feet on the right path. Yes, He knows exactly what I need!

Shopping, Online, E-Commerce, Fashion, Tablet, Coffee

Speaking of purchases, my parents recently bought a cute little house, painted several rooms, and moved in. They are still getting settled, but their internet was down for a couple of weeks. It was a bear to get it all up and running again!

However, Mom told me a funny story of how they bought a used washing machine and dryer. They looked online and found a deal for a front-loader set. As they slowed down to find the correct house number, a man ran out to the street to flag them down. He was very friendly and easy to work with, so they just went with it.

They went inside and the machines were a top-loader set. The man offered to help them load them into my dad’s truck, which was much appreciated. The details weren’t “quite right” but it seems they just misread the details.

Folded, Laundry, Stack, T-Shirt, Red, Clothes, Clothing

Then, after they returned home, the seller of the front-loader set contacted them asking if they were coming or not. Turns out they picked up the wrong laundry set! Later, my mom was reading online poor reviews about the machines they did NOT purchase. God really saved them the headache of getting something unreliable. He also saved them $100! 

Mom and I had a good laugh about her new-to-her laundry machines. It was a win-win for her and the seller! God found them a good deal on a used lawnmower, too! 😉

Mom reminded me that what God has for me is… for me. He orders our steps and has good things in store for us. He is not a genie at our beck and call, rather His plan and promises are sure. He is a faithful, loving Father for those who place their trust in Him!

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God, thanks for always being there for me and for providing so well for me. Help me use my resources wisely so I may be a blessing to others. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Do you prefer online shopping or in-store shopping? What’s the craziest thing you’ve bought online?

Tasks: Next time you are shopping online, pause and praise God for His provision! Thank Him for blessing you, and ask Him if there is someone you can bless in turn.

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Gratitude, Miscellaneous

Finding Grace #293

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!

Sparrow, Bird, Animal, Green-Backed Sparrow, Small Bird

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

This was a solid week, full of God’s grace! I had Monday off from work (Columbus Day), and I spent it catching up around the house. Then, I had some friends from church over in the evening. It was a much-needed fun and relaxing day!

Tuesday was quite busy at work and at home. I changed my work hours slightly to accommodate a later patient. Thankfully, I was able to squeeze in a quick appointment beforehand. But, the rest of the day kept me on my toes.

After I picked up Lydia, we ran to the grocery store. Thus, we arrived home about an hour and a half later than normal. That’s when I realized I wore blue jeans instead of my usual dress pants to work! Thankfully, no one else noticed either, including my boss! (I told her and some of my coworkers the next day; we all laughed and agreed it was probably due to stress!) Whew!

My mom’s birthday was yesterday. It was a special birthday (number-wise), and I enjoyed chatting with her after work. It was great to have her all to myself! I am grateful I get off early on Fridays. 🙂

Today, I spent some time exercising in the morning and later went shopping for some new fall and winter decor! It’s fun to get new things from time to time. Lydia was invited to a friend’s house for a playdate, so it was nice to have a few hours to myself on such a beautiful, sunny autumnal day!

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

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

Posted on in Being Gracious, Gratitude, Kindness, Life is Short, Miscellaneous

Everybody In!

I was listening to the radio on my way to pick up Lydia from work yesterday. They were doing a fundraiser and someone offered to match the amount if others called in during the next song.

Astonishingly, NO ONE called in during the song. I don’t know if the person extended the offer or not, but I was thinking… what happens when no one responds in other areas?

The radio personalities explained that if we all think someone else will step up, then there’s a chance no one will. They gave several examples, such as when someone is stuck on the side of the road, or when there’s an emergency in a crowded area, or even how we all walk by the same mess without cleaning it up.

Somebody else will take care of it, right?

Interestingly, this situation is really common. It even has a name… the bystander effect.

It’s not necessarily because we are uncaring, but perhaps we don’t think we have time or don’t think we can adequately fix the problem. So, we just keep driving and/or ignore it.

Flatfoot, Senselessly Mature, Flat Tire, Breakdown

I don’t know ALL the ways to get around it, but I can relate. I am sure you have been there, too. One thing I have learned: Usually, doing something is better than doing nothing.

The radio personalities mentioned how, during a different song, someone gave $500 and someone else gave $5. But, it all counts. We all have something to give.

We can achieve more when we work together, each of us taking part in the solution. Teamwork makes the dream work! When everybody’s in, everybody wins!

I’m not saying you need to donate money to a cause. But maybe you can change a flat tire or call for a tow truck. Maybe you can watch someone’s kids in a pinch, or bring a meal for a hungry family, or help rake someone’s yard.

If you still don’t know what to do, then maybe a gift card or an encouraging word is good enough. Don’t overthink it. Each of us will serve in our own ways, but it all counts!

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God, thanks for all the ways You love us. Help us to be willing to step up and offer whatever we have. After all, everything we have comes from You. You are the giver of all good things. Give us wisdom to know what to do and the courage to do it. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Have you ever offered to help a total stranger? How did it make you feel afterward? Was it worth it?

Tasks: Next time you see a chance to help someone, do! To see an example, read the story of the Good Samaritan. Pray for wisdom and courage… then follow through. Let God lead and see how He moves through you!

Posted on in Being Gracious, Gratitude, Kindness, Miscellaneous, Perseverance

Happy Helper

Last weekend, I spent several hours raking dead grass from my lawn. It had rained, so thankfully, it came up a little easier. Lydia helped me for a little while, but then one of the neighbor boys invited her over to play and ride their scooters.

On Saturday, I listened to my chronological Bible using some old headphones, and then made a couple of calls. The Bluetooth option was great because I was able to continue raking the whole time. In all, I spent 4+ hours raking a small portion of my yard.

I was starting to wind down when that same little neighbor came over and asked if he could help. He’s a few grades behind Lydia in school, but I was so impressed!

Leaves Broom, Raking Leaves, Computing

I had him pick up some of the grass and then gave him another rake when he asked for one. It was a lightweight rake and not as sharp as mine. He noticed how mine had more tines (sharper, worked better) and asked me why.

I said, “Oh, well, they are just good at different things.”

He quickly replied, “Just like people!”

He worked in an area not too far from me and chatted the whole time.

“Do you want to ask me some math questions? I know plus and minus.”

So, we covered several math facts up to around thirty!

Next, he asked if we wanted to tell jokes. We each had a few up our sleeves. After that, he showed me his new hat and asked if I liked his shoes. Then, we emptied our buckets of grass into the larger container.

Trash, Can, Dirt, Bin, Garbage, Waste, Container

As we talked, I thought I should reward him for his help and kindness. I asked if he would rather have some ice cream from Dairy Queen or some ice cream from my freezer in which he could add his own toppings. He asked if I had sprinkles and cherries (yes!), then he opted for the ice cream with toppings.

I was nearly done (and fairly sore), so was ready to pick everything up. He challenged me to keep going a little more because he wanted to try out a dustpan he was using to shovel dead grass into our buckets. With his help, I lasted another fifteen to twenty minutes! 

What he said next warmed my heart even more. “I’ll help you more tonight if you want! I really like raking. It’s one of my favorite things to do.” What a happy helper!

But, soon we cleaned up instead and had the ice cream. He helped me carry everything across the street because, in the spirit of generosity, he thought Lydia and his family should also partake in the reward he earned. So considerate!

I used Sunday as a rest day and ran out late on Monday night to rake some more on my own. It was almost dark, so I didn’t stay outside long. But, on Tuesday night after dinner, Lydia and I planned to go out and rake for about forty-five minutes.

Steam, Grass Rake, Grass, Meadow, Green, Nature, Swath

Once again, our neighbor came over to ask if Lydia could play again. This time, I said she needed to help me. To my surprise, he said, “I’ll help, too!” And then, he laid down his skateboard and helmet and grabbed a rake. I let him pick out the one he wanted.

Altogether, the three of us spent about twenty-five minutes raking and accomplished a lot more than we would have otherwise. I told our neighbor I was going to write about him, so maybe others would be inspired to help each other.

It was fun to see such initiative in my young neighbor. He saw someone who needed help and didn’t wait to be asked. In honor of him, today, do your work unto the Lord and with a cheerful heart!

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God, thanks for all the ways You love us and provide for us. May we love each other and help with a cheerful heart! May we please You in everything we do. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Question: When was the last time you offered to help someone with yardwork?!

Tasks: Be willing to step out of your comfort zone today. Speak up and be a happy helper!