Tag: obedience

Posted on in Being Gracious, Gratitude, Journey of Grace, Kindness, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Perfectionism, Perseverance, Personality, Pivot, Wisdom

A Few Good Quotes

I usually finish writing my Wednesday post on Tuesday evening, and I usually make it my main priority. But, occasionally, I need to focus on other things. Sometimes, it is just good to take a break and rest. This week has been busy, so it’s a bit of both!

So, for this week’s post, I am keeping it simple. I decided to share a few quotes I have been collecting and just give a few insights and let you mull on them as well! I do not remember all the sources, sorry, but if I find them, I will link them.

The first three are from some excellent sermons on the Armor of God (Ephesians 6:10-18). This is the first in the series, but they have all been good!

Our shield of faith is not just for protection; it is also for advancement. We don’t just hold it up when attacks come, but we can “hide” behind it while taking ground in Jesus’ Name. For me, this is a mental game-changer. It reminds me I have the responsibility to take action.

Faith is acting like God is telling the truth.  Essentially, our enemy’s strategy is to use anything – good or bad – to make us distrust God. (God can use those to bring Him glory and us good.)  So, when we believe God and do what He says, we fight against the lies.

Free Fat Chicken Stonecrop photo and picture

Hope is when your present borrows strength and hope from you future. No matter how grand, the things of this world will always disappoint us. But, Jesus is our Living Hope and our future is secure!

God did not redeem us only to abandon us. I don’t recall the source, but it does remind me of the line, “God did not bring you this far, only to bring you this far.” Lies can creep in and make us doubt God’s love and presence. But, He is with us and for us!

Preach the gospel to yourself daily. Remind yourself that apart from King Jesus, you are dust. Not to be outdone, check out this line, attributed to Jonathan Edwards: “You contribute nothing to your salvation except the sin that made it necessary.” Well, that’s enough to keep me humble!

Slow days still count. I have been staying up late to get things done, and as you know, you can’t do that for long without feeling it. For the last week or so, I have felt a little run-down and have been intentionally trying to rest. I took a nap on Sunday and am being kind to myself by ending my post… here. 😉 Thanks for reading!

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Heavenly Father, thanks for giving us wisdom and guidance. May we live out our faith with boldness. Help us to know when to move forward and when to rest. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Question: Have you heard any other good quotes lately?

Task: Think about the quotes above and how you might apply them to your life. I’d love to know your thoughts!

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Food and Nutrition, Gratitude, Journey of Grace, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Prayer

Finding Grace #495

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

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

Free Monarch Echinacea photo and picture

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

This was a great week, and I saw God work all around me!

On Monday, I started a ministry training class at church. We will be covering two courses this semester and two next semester. It will be a commitment, and also a great opportunity. I don’t know all that God has in store for me, but I am excited to learn and grow!

Work was steady but really good. There is always a lot going on, but it always feels worthwhile. I am happy to be where God has me, making a difference!

On Tuesday, I had an appointment which has me thinking about possibilities and answered prayers. I might have a decision to make, but I am still researching the information presented. I am grateful for how God guides and cares for me!

This week, I received garden-fresh beets and carrots from a friend at work. I roasted them last night, and they are delicious. After that, a neighbor gave us some freshly-picked sweet corn! I love it when people share the bounty of the season!

I woke up early this morning with lots of energy and ideas. I decided to organize a few spots around the house and started right away. I did not complete all that I wanted to do, but now I have a plan. 😉 I also mowed, did laundry, and cut up watermelon. With the long weekend, I hope to make more progress!

This afternoon, Lydia and I attended a little friend’s third birthday party. It was fun to see how much she has changed in one year! I pray God will do mighty things in her life and that she will one day trust in Him as her Lord and Savior.

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

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

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Gratitude, Miscellaneous

Finding Grace #491

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

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

Free Bee Honey Bee photo and picture

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

This was a pretty quiet and smooth week! 

Nothing new to report for work. Or, at least I don’t think anything unusual happened! I had nice patients and good conversations with my coworkers.

I did a lot of organizing around the house this week. I went through some piles of clutter and also tossed some old papers and boxes. I shredded some documents and cleaned part of the garage. It feels great to get things squared away before the seasons change!

Today, Lydia went to hang out with a friend and I stayed home. I caught up with some chores and mowing. I also weeded and did some trimwork outside.  Tonight, we worked out together for a little bit and then played three mean games of Sorry!

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

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

Posted on in Gratitude, Kindness, Miscellaneous, Parenting

Just Keep Growing

As a parent, it’s fun to see our kids learning new things. Lydia has been lounging for most of the summer, and I have been happy to let her. Sure, I have given her chores several days a week, but I also realize we are only young once.

Teenagers need more rest, and I can let her sleep in. She prefers to have a small to-do list, so if I don’t have chores for her that day, I encourage her to make her own. I might suggest practicing her viola, reading, spending time with Jesus, cleaning her room, showering, etc. I don’t worry if she doesn’t get it all done.

Someday, Lydia will have to get up and go each summer morning. So, I relish letting her chill for now. It has been an interesting summer in that when I get home, Lydia is eager to chat and hang out. It probably helps that I put some time limits on her phone and internet use! 😉

Since she has a lot of downtime, Lydia enjoys making wish lists of things she wants to buy. She has limited cash, of course, so either she will have to burn through her funds or I will have to chip in. I have to laugh because a lot of what she is picking was popular when I was a kid: faded jeans/shorts, sweatpants, baggy shirts, and Birkenstocks.

Lydia is my only child, and she is generally an easy kid, so it would be easy to spoil her. However, I set good limits and remind her to look for value and a good deal. I rarely buy the first thing Lydia sees and make her research the best price for the quality. I tend to resist buying name brands and ask for a list of the pros and cons since I don’t want her to feel entitled. Sometimes I will splurge, but often we’ll split the cost, shop at a thrift store for the item, or buy a knockoff.

It has been fun to see how Lydia has grown this summer, moreover, in the last two weeks! She’s grown a little taller, yes, but she’s also impressed me lately in other areas. Lydia has shown more responsibility and initiative around the house. She has grown in spiritual maturity, too, asking her friends if she can pray for them. She has texted them the most thoughtful prayers on their behalf! I love seeing her heart for her friends!

All on her own, Lydia also found a website that encourages people to write to the elderly. She plans to start doing this regularly, though I am not holding her to it. We bought some cards, stationery, and other supplies so that she can bless these strangers. (She’s a little timid to write to people she knows, but I hope she will in the future.) I will review what Lydia writes to ensure it meets the guidelines, but my mom would be so proud because she had her own card-writing ministry!

As I reflect on these points above, I am reminded that each of us has a special way of helping others. Serving and loving people is not about giving a lot of money, but about having a compassionate heart to bless others and spread the love of Jesus.

As much as I am proud of Lydia, just think about how much God loves you and is proud of you. Let that sink in for a minute!

If you have not connected with the Lord for a while, now is your chance. Call out to Jesus, and He will be right there with you. He loves you so much and wants the best for you. He has good plans in store, so just keep growing in Him!

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Heavenly Father, thanks for all the ways You love us and help us grow. Help us continue to draw near to You and mature in our faith. May we love others like You do! In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: How has God blessed you this week? How can you serve someone else today?

Tasks: Use your unique gifts, skills, personality, opportunities, and interests to love God and serve others. Let your roots grow down into Him… and read Colossians 2:7-9. Pray about what to do and then move forward!

Posted on in Gratitude, Miscellaneous, Personality, Pivot, Prayer, Wisdom, Worship

Worthy of Praise

We sing a song at church called “Praise” by Elevation Worship. It is a fun song to sing, but the message is also important. Here’s one section of the lyrics:

I’ll praise when I feel it
And I’ll praise when I don’t
I’ll praise ’cause I know
You’re still in control
Because my praise is a weapon
It’s more than a sound (more than a sound)
Oh, my praise is the shout
That brings Jericho down
 
 
God is worthy of our praise whether we feel like it or not. Praising Him is not always easy or enjoyable. Sometimes, it is downright difficult. Distraction, pain, suffering, grief – there are so many things to take our eyes off Jesus. Still, praise and worship are tools to show others how great God is.
 
When we give God credit for His work in our lives, we magnify His glory and shine attention back to Jesus. Our pride and self-promotion take a worthy hit in the process. As we redirect our focus, we see things His way and trust Him at a deeper level.  This frees us from our chains and confuses our enemy.
 
It’s difficult to praise God when things are going wrong, but it blesses God and brings blessings upon us, too. Praising God may or may not change our circumstances, but it does change our hearts as the Holy Spirit moves and tweaks our perspective. Talk about transformation!

 
Praise is a timely reminder that people will fail us, but our Creator and Almighty God, never will. He is infinitely faithful and good. He is merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in love. Our Heavenly Father will never leave nor forsake His children. 
 
Praise has the power to prepare us for God’s greater work. As the Holy Spirit redirects us, we are open to what He wants us to do. We align our vision with His and gain confidence to move forward with intention.
 
Praising God has the potential to prevent panic when things go awry. We can praise, pray, and plan in advance! Then, whenever a problem does arise, we are prepared.
 
Praise can be a form of prayer, which is really just communicating with God. The acronym ACTS starts with Adoration, then Confession, Thanksgiving, and Supplication. In some ways, you can praise, worship, and pray all at the same time!
 
Don’t worry if you are a good singer. You can shout your praises or whisper them. There is always a reason to praise. Just come and give God the glory for all He has done for you. He just wants your heart!
 
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Heavenly Father, I praise You for Your mighty works! Thanks for all the ways You love me and provide for me. Help me walk worthy of Your calling today. In Jesus’ Name, Amen
 
Questions: What are some things you are praising God for today? Do you like to sing, or shout, or dance, or journal?
 
Tasks: If you need a primer on praise, the Psalms are a great place to start. I came across Psalm 93 today and encourage you to check it out! Also, here are some of my other blog posts on praise.
Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Gratitude, Journey of Grace, Life is Short, Miscellaneous

Finding Grace #489

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

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

Free Iris Flower photo and picture

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

This week was fairly full but really good! We ended up skipping family Zoom on Sunday because each family had something going on. That gave me time to mow the lawn!

On Monday, I went on a long walk with an old friend and coworker. She was so good to me after Dave died, as we shared an office and helped each other solve life’s problems (including my grief). Her girls are a few years older than Lydia, so she also helped guide me through the process of choosing a preschool and preparing for Kindergarten. We covered several miles while talking and catching up. It was just what I needed, and I hope to do it again soon!

Work was busy but went well; I say that a lot, don’t I?! We had an Employee Appreciation Day, which I almost missed due to patient care. But I did manage to grab a plate of food and eat it in between patients. I did not get a chance to play any games or visit with other employees, but that’s okay. I had a nice day, anyway!

This week, I found out that I have been accepted into a leadership and ministry training program starting in August at my church. Lydia is on board and encouraged me to apply. I’m glad I took a leap of faith, as it’s been on my heart for a while. I’ll be in the non-traditional track, which is designed for individuals with regular jobs, families, and other responsibilities. I anticipate spending a few hours a week completing Bible study coursework and then applying what I learn. I am excited to see what God has in store for me!

Yesterday, I took Lydia to get her school supplies! I also registered her for 8th grade, which is hard to believe! Her school list was surprisingly short, and we reminisced about elementary school, when she needed lots of markers, crayons, glue, and scissors. I’m sure it will be an awesome year for her!

Today, we met some friends downtown at the street fair. This is different from last week’s county fair, but I prefer it because it feels quieter and less crowded. The main difference is that there are no rides, but there is music, fair food, and vendors offering various products. I bought some handmade flowery storage pouches and totes, along with a couple of treats to share. It was a gorgeous day to be outside and spend time together!

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

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

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

Becoming Like Jesus

“I have found that trying to become more like Jesus yields far better results than trying to become a better me.”

I came across the quote above last week on Substack, and it has stuck with me since. (I could not find the original source.) The process of becoming more like Jesus is a work of the Holy Spirit, commonly referred to as sanctification. It is not always fun or easy, but it is really the main work of God in our lives.

Our Heavenly Father wants us to come to Him just as we are; we don’t need to do a bunch of good things to earn His favor (that’s grace). At the same time, He also loves us enough not to leave us the way we are. So, God transforms us into the character likeness of Jesus and makes us holy, as He is holy. (Holy does not mean perfect, but set apart.) He is fitting us for Heaven!

Sanctification occurs when the Holy Spirit checks our heart and prompts us to do something different than we would in our own human power. This might be giving money or a favorite belonging when you’re feeling stingy. This might be biting your tongue instead of letting someone know what’s really on your mind. You know you are on the right track when something doesn’t seem fair, but you listen and follow God’s lead anyway.

Free Mountain National Park photo and picture

Slowly but surely, we start to think and act like Jesus. Our hearts become more aligned with His, and we are able to see things from a Heavenly perspective. The Holy Spirit is patient but diligent. If we make a mistake, no worries, He can convict us and set us straight. He is not condemning, but gracious with us if we are humble and repent (Romans 8:1).

Becoming like Jesus is never time wasted, even if it takes a while to come full circle. Often, we have to lay aside our desires and expectations to serve someone else. We can hold space for God to move when we want to rush ahead. We can submit our ideas and plans and take His on instead. We may not fully see the impact of obedience, but, it is always worth the sacrifice.

We will never be perfect on this side of Heaven, but we will receive an eternal reward if we don’t give up. We don’t have to be right or justified, we just need to follow Jesus.

Sanctification often involves serving other people, which helps refine us. It may include waking early to spend time with the Lord before a busy day at work. It may include tending to the kids and letting your spouse sleep in. Or, maybe it’s praying for that certain person who drives you a little crazy. 🙂

Even recently, I have been learning that I don’t have to figure out what I want to do next in life. I don’t have to worry or try to become a more ‘exciting’ person. This frees me up to let God shine in my life more than my own accomplishments. As John the Baptist said, “He must become greater; I must become less” (John 3:30).

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God, thanks for saving me and preparing me for Heaven. Change my heart, Lord, and make me like You. Holy Spirit, continue to move in my life. Thanks for not giving up on me. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Question: How are you becoming more like Jesus… today, this week, this month, so far this year?

Tasks: Read Romans 8 and also Romans 12. Instead of running after your dreams and goals, submit them to Jesus. Chase after Him and be transformed.

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

A “With Us” God

This week, I am praying and reflecting on the great losses of life and property in recent Texas floods. Natural disasters, like fires, earthquakes, and hurricanes, have also happened, though the Texas floods hit home because Lydia is at camp this week.

In the midst of tragedy, including wars, people tend to ask “Why didn’t God prevent this?” and Where is God in all of this?” I don’t have all the answers, but I have asked those same questions. I am absolutely sure He is right in it with us. He is Emmanuel, God with us, or as someone once said, He is a “with us” God.

God is outside of Time, but He’s right here, too. He can be everywhere all at once. There’s no place He’d rather be than with those He loves.

God is a loving Father who fights for His children. He, too, faced heartbreaking loss when Jesus died on the cross. Jesus could have shunned the cross, but He knew it was the only way. In fact, this was His redemptive plan from before the beginning of Time. So, I don’t know His purposes in Texas, but I know He understands and grieves with us.

Free Poland Castle photo and picture

God is our refuge and shield. He is a safe place, a hiding place. We can run to Him for protection. As we draw near to Him, He draws near to us. I imagine God holding and carrying the girls from Mystic Camp, along with so many others who were swept into the water. I am praying everyone is found.

God’s delay is not absence or apathy. His timing is just different, and His ways are higher than ours. He is sovereign over the good and bad. (He does not send bad things upon us, but uses them for our eventual good.) We can trust Him even when we can’t see how it all turns out.

Our Heavenly Father helps us deal with fear, and He comforts us in our grief. We, too, are called to mourn with those who mourn; we can pour out all our emotions to Jesus because He cares for us.

As sad as tragedies are, I cannot imagine facing them without Jesus because He is our only Hope. Every day, we are getting closer to when Jesus will come back. One could say things will continue to get worse before they get better…

Nonetheless, our main focus is to stay close to Jesus and keep our eyes on Him. Whatever you are facing today, lean into God’s love, mercy, and grace. He is faithful and good.

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Father God, thanks for being with us in the good and bad. Please be with those in Texas who are dealing with the aftermath of the flooding. Give them Your comfort and peace. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: How do you reconcile life’s tragedies? Do you turn to Jesus or your own insights?

Task: Read Psalm 91. When the unfathomable occurs, bring everything to the Only One who can hold it all together and work it out for your good and His glory. It will take time, and you may never fully understand it, but He can handle all that concerns you.

 

Posted on in Being Gracious, Kindness, Life is Short, Little Free Library, Miscellaneous, Worship

Everyday Kindness

These days, we find ourselves in a fast-paced, highly politicized world, and we must keep our eyes on Jesus, who is the Way, the Truth, and the Life (John 14:6). It can take a lot of discernment to see where He is working and how I should join Him. Many of the world’s “causes” are important, but I am not called to go and get involved in each one of them.

There are so many issues, and sometimes it feels like I am not doing enough. Have you ever felt that way? Time feels short, and problems accumulate faster than solutions. Often, I feel called to donate money and pray. However, I also keep my eyes and heart open to those who are in need of help and encouragement in my local community.

Every day, God gives us opportunities to share His love with others. Quite often, He does not require big or bold gestures, but simple acts of kindness…

Recently, at work, I heard about a special request. A hospice Veteran with ALS wanted to take a last ride in his son’s convertible. Our VA police helped the Veteran get into the vehicle. He had a look of pure joy. Over a hundred of us lined the front driveway of the VA to cheer and wave to him. It was also funny when people started cheering for the UPS and garbage trucks, too!

The Veteran also had another wish: to travel to Europe. This is a challenging task to accomplish, given his circumstances, but we were able to assist him by using a virtual reality headset. I’m sure it made a world of difference to this brave man.

Free Antique Car Mg photo and picture

On Sunday afternoon, my doorbell rang unexpectedly. I almost didn’t answer because I thought it was simply a routine package delivery. I’m glad I did because I met a family of four siblings. The kids asked to use my garden hose to fill up their water balloons. At first, I was skeptical, but then I realized they did not have access to a hose at their apartment building.

On the one hand, it is not my responsibility to provide for them, but a few gallons of water is not too much to pay to be a good neighbor. English might be their second language, so I want to make sure they feel safe and welcome. As we talked, I learned their ages range from second to ninth grade. I did not get many details, but I sent them home with their water balloons and some other water toys. If they come back, maybe I will offer them a popsicle!

Yesterday, I made Lydia and her friend frozen pizza and fruit for an impromptu dinner before loading her bike into my car and driving her home. An enterprising young neighbor also sold me a little bracelet to earn some money to fix up his bike.

Free Colorful Colourful photo and picture

For many years, I have had a Little Free Library in my front yard. On Monday, I chatted with a couple of ladies and pet their dog. One of them was happy that she had found a paperback of a book she has been listening to. I encouraged them to stop by anytime.

At work, I’ve had several “extra” patients who needed some help. One that stood out was a tube-feeding patient who has had several challenges. He called me with bad news; he is not long for this world. I offered encouragement, yet he is at total peace and is looking forward to seeing Jesus soon. I included that part in my chart note to inform others, per his request, but also to remind them of our eternal hope.

There are times when we need to take a firm stand for what is right. But with everyday kindness, little by little, we can change the world.

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God, thanks for showing me that I am making a difference in the lives of those around me. Thanks for each person listed above and for all of my readers. Help me continue to live for You and share your grace and love with others. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: How have you seen God at work this week? What can you do to join Him in blessing others?

Task: Don’t overthink kindness (like I sometimes do). Just start small and offer a smile, a listening ear, or a word of encouragement. It might be making a frozen pizza, contributing to a fundraiser, or offering a popsicle… it all counts!

Posted on in Gratitude, Miscellaneous, Prayer, Wisdom

God of Justice

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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