Tag: Peace

Posted on in Being Gracious, Journey of Grace, Miscellaneous, Personality, Wisdom

Ten Things For Which I Am Thankful

Confession: Over the last few days, I have noticed myself reacting to various issues in not-so-helpful ways. Some issues are mere annoyances…and most are out of my control. I could tell you how I have lost my temper, felt sorry for myself, or have said words I regret. Maybe that can wait for another day… in the meantime, I will focus on adjusting my attitude. 😉

We all have bad days or moments from time to time, and we all need the Lord’s forgiveness and refining. Nonetheless, instead of seeing all that is ‘wrong,’ I want to look for what is going well.

So today, I am challenging myself to find ten things for which I am thankful. It doesn’t solve all my problems but gratitude does put them into perspective. We all have so much goodness in our lives…

In no particular order, I am thankful for…

Sleep. If I am over-tired, I am more likely to lose my cool. Sometimes a nap is a perfect way to reset. I’m also grateful for a new FitBit that has better sleep information than my old one. I have been tracking my sleep habits and trying to be more consistent overall.

Nature. Sometimes, I just need to get away and decompress. I have taken some awesome nature walks lately which has been refreshing. (I probably should do that more often!)When I see the beautiful blue sky, cool animals, green leaves, and flowers in a rainbow of colors, I am reminded of how much God cares about all the details of my life too.

Good listeners. I have some wonderful people in my life who let me talk openly and get things off my chest when needed. I don’t do this all the time, thankfully, but I do appreciate the feedback provided. Sometimes I need someone to agree with me and sometimes I need a kick in the pants. I’m glad to have family and friends who can offer kindness and/or provide some tough love! I’m also thankful when they pray for me!

My lawnmower. Mowing the lawn is not my favorite thing to do, but I am always proud of myself after it is done. It reminds me that I can indeed do difficult things with God’s help. 🙂

Stability. I have a lovely house and a good job, and God provides so well for me. I have no lack. All of my basic needs are met, which reminds me that ‘godliness with contentment is great gain.’ Thank You, Jesus!

Walkie-talkies. This might sound odd, but Lydia and I use walkie-talkies when she is playing at a neighbor’s house so I don’t have to yell like a madwoman to get her attention. This provides a little independence for Lydia and some reassurance for me. It also makes it possible to get a few quick chores done inside when all she wants to do is play outside.

Access to healthy food, healthcare, etc. In America, we have so many resources that we often take them for granted. Just in terms of food, there are probably ten-thousand options at one grocery store… and I have perhaps ten grocery stores within ten minutes of where I live. (No more complaining here!)

Hugs from Lydia. She is quick to sense when I need a hug, which always ‘fills my cup.’ I’m so thankful for her and my life is much more rich with her in it.

Music. Music has a special way expressing our feelings without words. I like several kinds of music, but lately, I have appreciated birds singing on my deck and worship music. Both help me pause and reconnect with the Lord.

Opportunities to serve. This is especially important to get our eyes off ourselves. When I can use my gifts to help someone, that changes everything.

Wow, I feel better already! I’m thankful God loves us ‘too much’ to let us stay focused on ourselves. His love is overwhelming and reckless! (So that makes eleven things! Bonus!)

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God, thanks for loving me so much. Please forgive me when I have a bad attitude. Give me new eyes to see the needs around me and help me be thankful. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Question: Can you name ten things for which you are thankful?

Tasks: Start each day with gratitude. Write some thank you notes! Also, listen to the song, ‘Reckless Love’ by Cory Asbury.

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Miscellaneous

Finding Grace #115

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 I noticed God’s grace even more than usual. We had several milestones along the way and I was grateful for the extra support. I am glad that Jesus leads us in Victory… onward and upward!

Sunday was Mother’s Day, though it was a little bittersweet for me. Mother’s Day weekend reminds me of Dave’s sickness and death… because those dates all coincide. So I was a little hesitant about the day. But then, Lydia and I went on a bike ride before church and I let Jesus help me sort through my feelings. In place of sorrow, He gave me strength and joy. After church, we had lunch with a friend and then enjoyed a relaxing day at home. I worked on some projects while Lydia played outside. It was a good day after all!

Tuesday was the five year anniversary of Dave’s death. Overall, it was a good day. I gave Lydia a little cat ring to help her associate that day with God’s goodness and grace (instead of sorrow). He has taken such good care of us! I also was encouraged by friends on social media, and then two other friends came over that evening. We had a fun time!

We had great weather again this week, which included heat and then rain. I noticed so many beautiful flowering trees, like the one above (pictured). I love seeing God’s handiwork on full display!

All week, I have been following the news about the royal wedding (Harry and Meghan). 🙂 My paternal grandmother was English and so I feel somewhat connected to those big events. Like millions of other people, I woke up before dawn this morning to watch it on television. My sister and I chatted the whole time, just like we did during the 2011 royal wedding (William and Kate). I had a scone and tea to mark the occasion!

Today, after the royal wedding, I attended a training at church. My friend, Sara, graciously watched Lydia for most of the day. Lydia was thrilled and had a lot of ideas for what to do with Sara. I think they had fun…and I am grateful for the help!

Where did you find God’s grace this week?

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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, Journey of Grace, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Parenting, Perseverance, Wisdom

The Difference Between Moving On and Moving Forward

Yesterday, we reached a big milestone in our grace journey. It was five years since Dave died…and five years of walking it out step-by-step.

Each moment has been drenched in God’s grace.

Five years ago, it felt like this milestone would never arrive. I had no plan and no clue what to do. (And for a planner, that’s kind of a big deal!) Suffice it to say, we faced a lot of challenges.

Yesterday felt noteworthy—yet at the same time felt just like any other day. The normalcy of it made me even more aware of God’s thorough healing. While it hasn’t been easy, I’m grateful.

I want Lydia to associate this day with goodness—instead of pain or sorrow—and identify the overwhelming Victory we have in Christ. So, each year I’ve given her a small token to mark the occasion.

Needless to say, Lydia was excited about yesterday. She woke up with such anticipation, “This is going to be a great day!” I loved her cheerful attitude; she loved the little cat ring I gave her before school.

So yesterday, we celebrated Dave’s memory and that he is safe and secure… By God’s grace, we are still standing strong! Thank You, Jesus. Every Victory is found in You!

Often, we pray for God to do big things, and then want to tell Him how to accomplish all our ideas. But His ways are bigger than our ways. Our small minds cannot comprehend all the good He has in store for us.

 As He promised in Romans 8:28, God has used this horrible tragedy for my good and His glory…so I can, in turn, help others and bless them. My goal is to then point people back to see God’s goodness in their own lives.

Honestly, I don’t need to understand the “why factor.” I am just grateful that God knows exactly what we need. His grace covers me and I can move forward in Victory.

Victory starts with Jesus at the Cross and His Resurrection but then carries over into everyday life. Each day brings opportunities to live victoriously. We have the choice to stand firm or move forward.

For me, standing firm means NOT running away from all the pain and sorrow—which is the exact opposite of what I sometimes want to do. Standing firm means not giving up even an inch of that holy ground. Moving forward is taking that first step and then another and another.

Some Victories are large and some are small. Some come easy and some are a struggle. Either way, slow and steady progress is still good.

It is strange to think that many of my friends now, never even met Dave… These days, I don’t share as much about him because sometimes the timing or mood isn’t right. Still, I appreciate anyone who will listen when I really need it. Thank you!!

After a big life change, people often get a ‘grace period’ to adjust. Though, after five years, perhaps some people would say it is time to move on. (I get it. Life goes on.) But, there is a difference between moving on and moving forward. And really, you can’t do both!

Moving on implies that we need to cut our losses and forget the past. Just get over it already! Moving on feels like an either/or option. You can either stay stuck or leave everything behind.

Moving forward, on the other hand, acknowledges the pain, grief, loss, or other wound but chooses to see beyond it. It is inclusive of one’s past and current experiences but allows for new options in the future. Moving forward may seem agonizing at first but is worth it in the long-run.

Moving on is the gut reaction—handling it on your own. Keep your head down and work hard to push through the pain. The problem is that approach is not sustainable. It uses up our energy so we have nothing left to give.

Moving forward, then, is the grace response—letting Jesus do the heavy work. Keep your head high—focused on Jesus—honor the past, and be brave. Surprisingly, we find more energy and power because the Holy Spirit covers our weakness and renews us with His strength.

Each person’s journey looks different. There is no one-size-fits-all ‘right’ way to deal with life’s pain and trials. But, for me, the greater Victory is found in moving forward with Jesus. He is faithful and can do far more than we could ever ask or imagine!

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Heavenly Father, thanks for all Your grace and goodness toward us. All glory and praise to You, Lord. Help us continue to move forward in Victory as you bring freedom and wholeness. In Jesus’ Mighty Name, Amen.

Questions: What are your thoughts on standing firm, moving forward, and moving on? Do you feel like you are living in Victory—or still struggling?

Tasks: Praising God is one way to keep moving forward and refocus on Jesus. Listen to this song: “Surrender” (Fight My Battles) by Michael W. Smith

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Miscellaneous

Finding Grace #114

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 was awesome in so many ways! It felt so relaxing as I soaked up God’s grace!

This week was ‘clean up’ week where the garbage collectors take just about anything we leave on the curb. I put several items out early, including a foosball table, love seat, bicycle, electronics, and some flower pots. It was fun watch people stop by and our old things. I had a few good conversations with strangers and felt it was a win-win for everyone!

We had great weather this week, which included some rain. Sometimes it was warm and chilly all in the same fifteen minutes! Early in the week, we ate dinner with the neighbors and several of the kids stopped by to play ‘water buckets.’

This week, I visited two local parks near the Red River on the ND/MN border (see pic) while Lydia was in school. It was so refreshing! Then, today, Lydia and I went to a birding event and saw several cool birds (some I had never seen!). Some will stay in the area while many are migrating through!

Other highlights this week included chatting with a friend and winning a gift certificate to a local bakery. I also hung up the wind chimes we received as a memorial to Dave. It always makes me happy when Lydia calls the music from the chimes her “Daddy’s song.” She also lost another tooth this week…she is growing so fast!

Where did you find God’s grace this week?

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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 Books and Movies I Like, Fear/Don't Fake Brave, Journey of Grace, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Wisdom, Worship

Book Review: When God Doesn’t Fix It

Recently, I finished another book that I’d highly recommend to anyone dealing with grief or trying to understand how life has turned out so differently than planned…

The book is called, When God Doesn’t Fix It, by Laura Story. Like the other memoir I reviewed, this book also was published two years ago, but I wasn’t ready for it then. I’m so grateful for God’s healing grace—and for how far He has brought me!

The author is an award-winning singer, songwriter, and worship leader. But twelve years ago, her husband was diagnosed with a brain tumor and underwent a ‘successful’ surgery. However, he now has several deficits including short-term memory problems and loss of peripheral vision. Parts of the story are very funny and other parts are very poignant.

The book has many parallels to my own story, yet both are still unique. Of course, I can relate to the ups and downs of dealing with health issues. When he was sick with cancer, my late-husband, Dave required more care as time went on, but didn’t improve. Life never returned to the way it was.

Ms. Story dispels several myths we believe about God and shows the Truth using Scripture. The Lord always keeps His promises (See 2 Corinthians 1:20)! But often, we place expectations on Him that He never agreed to do for us. Then, we tend to feel betrayed and blame God when He doesn’t come through like we think He should.

Take, for example, the subject of healing. Indeed, Jesus certainly did heal many people. However, as great as that was, physical healing was not His main goal. We see in Luke 19:10 that Jesus came “to seek and to save that which was lost.” Thus, He had a greater purpose in mind than just physical healing…

(The book gives more details and more examples, but I can trust the Lord for greater things in my life too!)

I appreciated that Ms. Story wrote honestly about her faith journey, one that has more questions than answers. She and her family have repeatedly prayed for healing but have had to learn to move forward without the resolution they desire. Her husband’s condition has not improved, but they have chosen to grow through the experience.

Ms. Story didn’t pretend to understand the “why factor.” Instead of demanding God to fix her family’s problems, they are embracing the present journey. They are choosing to praise Jesus and live for Him, becoming better, not bitter.

This book reminds me that we don’t have to have all the answers to walk by faith.

God is SO good!!

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Father God, thanks for all You do for me. Thanks for graciously guiding me and providing for me. Help me to praise You even when I don’t understand my circumstances. Help me to walk in faith! In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: What are your God-sized questions that seem to have no answers? How can you trust Jesus and move forward?

Tasks: Listen to the song, “Blessings,” by Laura Story. If you read her book, When God Doesn’t Fix It, let me know what you think!

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Miscellaneous

Finding Grace #113

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 was full of God’s grace! I had enjoyed each day and was able to catch up with my family and several friends in-person, and via texts or phone calls. Thank You, Jesus!

I worked extra hours this week, but it was all fun and purposeful. This week, I lead a diabetes class with an intern. In my volunteer role at church, I also started another three-week class. I teach this class regularly and we discuss several topics related to personal development. I enjoy teaching others and it feels good to have a positive impact on others’ lives. It makes me glad to use the skills God has given me!

Thursday was an all-around awesome day. First, I met up with a friend to catch up and pray. We walked outside to enjoy the beautiful day. After that, I took a bike ride to a local park. It was the perfect day with bright blue skies and no wind! Later, I walked Lydia and a friend to another park to play. I read a book before we walked back home for an impromptu picnic! I felt refreshed as I soaked up the sun and God’s grace that day!

Lydia played outside today, while I mowed for the first time! I also put out a few items for clean-up week. Next week, the City will pick up just about anything we leave curbside. I put my items out early in case someone else wants my old treasures (still in good condition)… I noticed one item is gone already! 🙂

Today was the Kentucky Derby! I don’t normally follow horse races, but this one caught Lydia’s interest, too. So, we watched the movie, Secretariat, last night so she understood a little more. Then, we watched the race this evening. It was a fun way to spend time together!

Where did you find God’s grace this week?

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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, Miscellaneous

Finding Grace #111

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 went fast and was filled with activities. It was a full week, but I was able to catch up and finish a couple books, podcast, and webinars. God is so good!

On Thursday, I started reorganizing the pantry and bought some little carts and extra shelves! Today (Saturday) I finished the job while Lydia went to play with the neighbors at their house. It feels good to have a home for everything instead of leaving certain items on the floor!

Thursday was also the day when the remaining snow on my property melted. It was around 56 degrees that day! After school, Lydia played for three hours outside with most of the neighborhood kids. I supervised and also was “it” during three rounds of hide-and-seek. I certainly got in my exercise that day! We had a blast and enjoyed the first round of popsicles for the season.

We had a no-school day on Friday because we had an extra snow day that we didn’t use. Lydia and I relaxed and errands. She played outside before we went to church for a special worship night. She insisted on wearing a little black dress and a pretty floral scarf for the event. I loved that she dressed up for God, but am thankful He loves and accepts us just as we are. We don’t have to impress Him!

Today Lydia and I went to an early spring farmer’s market. Then, we went to a local park and ate lunch on our deck. It was a beautiful day! Later, I finished the pantry project while Lydia played with the neighbors. We joined them for dinner too!

Where did you find God’s grace this week?

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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, Food and Nutrition, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Prayer

Smells, Spills, and Splatters

Yesterday, after school, Lydia and I went to get a few groceries. The store is a well-known company and I generally feel my money is well spent. However, I have noticed that their grocery bags have gotten super thin and flimsy.

When we got home, I unloaded the groceries while Lydia went to play with a friend. Right away, I noticed a leak with the first two bags I carried. I thought it was just condensation from the frozen vegetables. Nope. I put the bags on the kitchen rug and soon realized a glass jar of olives had broken!

So, I had to clean that up after putting the other items away. I also had to wash the rug, knowing if I didn’t it would stay smelly forever. Hmmmm….

Then, I went to the car to clean up more olive juice, before grabbing another round of grocery bags. But the second two bags also had holes in them—which I didn’t notice until a large bottle of balsamic vinegar fell out the bottom and crashed on the garage floor!

Yeah….. I stood there for a few seconds trying to figure out what to clean first. My new dress pants were splattered, my socks and shoes were drenched in vinegar and glass, and the dark puddle quickly expanded in two directions. Under the car and out the garage door.

I like the smell of balsamic vinegar, but a little goes a long way!

I quickly checked the remaining grocery bags and saw that every single bag had holes—some big and some small. Annoyed, I grabbed what I could before heading inside to change clothes.

Thankfully, the weather was the nicest it has been in months! It was in the 40s that day, so I put on a pair of shorts before rinsing my shoes, socks, and pants. (I didn’t want to ruin a pair of long pants!) I put my shoes by the bathroom sink to dry and the other items in the laundry.

Then, I spent the next 45 minutes trying to sweep up glass shards and pour buckets of water all over the garage floor. I used my broom to sweep the vinegar and water towards the drain. It was a real mess!

After I finally came inside, I put on warmer clothes and rinsed off another pair of shoes before making dinner and putting away the rest of the groceries. It was rather chaotic because Lydia also came inside ready to eat.

So, we threw together a few easy items—tacos made from leftover ingredients and veggies. I added some salsa to my tacos and later realized a little salsa had spilled on the counter before dripping onto the floor. Agggh!!

Finally, I cleaned up the dinner mess and washed a few dishes. That’s when I accidentally splashed soap suds onto the counter next to the sink. By this time, I was checking in with the Lord.

“Um, God, is there something you are trying to tell me?” 🙂

Then, I just had to smile because I realized each of these messes were mere inconveniences. They cost me a few dollars in grocery money and more than an hour out of my day. But, no real harm had been done.

Besides, my floors and garage needed some extra cleaning anyway. One area of the kitchen was still slightly sticky from when Lydia spilled her fruit cup (full of juice) the day before. And, the garage had a ton of little rocks and dirt from the crazy winter.

I was glad I turned to the Lord to check in with Him…even if it did take a few mini-disasters first. It was just a good moment to reconnect with Him. I was disappointed about the bags and mess, but I quickly saw my problems were of not big in light of eternity. There are much more important issues at stake, and smells, spills, and splatters were not worth losing my joy or peace.

Often, God uses minor problems to correct us or help us avoid major issues. The key is to connect with Him even before problems come!

Every day, Jesus covers us with His grace, guides us with His wisdom, and helps us navigate through life’s messes. Always ready to help, He cleans us up and sets things right.

From here on, I will be more diligent to use my reusable bags that are always in the back of my car. Lesson learned… It might take awhile for the stench of vinegar to leave my garage, but, I guess spring cleaning is off to a good start!

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God, thanks for keeping me calm today and turning my focus back to You. Thanks for covering me with Your grace. Help me turn to You quickly whether life is going smoothly or not. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: How does God get your attention? Do you turn to Him quickly or wait for disaster?

Tasks: At the first sign of trouble, check in with Jesus. Ask for His help and guidance immediately!

Posted on in Books and Movies I Like, Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Miscellaneous

Finding Grace #110

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?

As I reflect on God’s grace this week, I am filled with gratitude. It was a full week, and while we accomplished a lot, it didn’t seem too daunting. It was fun and relaxing!

This week was filled with creative pursuits! I tried a few new recipes, including a spaghetti sauce with no added sugar. I met some personal writing goals as well. This boost of creativity carried over to my dreams, too! I had several interesting dreams and slept very soundly! In one dream, I was trying to sell a house, but the house kept morphing between a tree house, brick house, and condo. Another dream revolved around politics and a circus… perhaps it mirrored real life in more than one way! 🙂

Perhaps my vivid dreams were also related to two intense audiobooks I finished. The books, If I Run, and, If I’m Found, by Terri Blackstock, kept me in suspense. I had to take a break at times to let the intensity subside, but both were very well-written. I have the audio version of the third book, If I Live, too. I hope to listen to it soon!

On Wednesday, I shared my story with a group of moms at my church. I always appreciate any opportunity to speak about God’s grace in my life. It is healing for me! Each of our personal stories has value. As we share our stories with each other, we are encouraged to embrace what God is doing in our lives. He is so good!

On Thursday, we took a tour of Lydia’s new school for next year. It was fun to see so many neighbors! We enjoyed learning about the school and meeting some of the staff. Everyone was friendly and Lydia should have a smooth transition in the fall.

We still have a decent amount of snow on the ground, but much of it melted this week. We were “supposed” to get more snow this weekend, but I think we will miss it. Many friends across the Midwest got hit instead… Thankfully, I saw a few more signs of spring. I saw the return of songbirds this week, including Mr. House Finch who serenaded me on Thursday and Friday! 🙂

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

What Are You Waiting For?

We spend a fair amount of our time waiting. Waiting for the elevator, green light, and next cash register. Waiting for the mail, waiting for our kids to get dressed, and waiting on the phone for technical support.

Whether we’re waiting for answers, waiting for a promotion, or just waiting for Spring, it’s easy to feel discouraged when we don’t see our circumstances changing as quickly as we want.

While we wait for breakthrough, we can doubt ourselves. Day by day, we can grow discouraged. Am I on the right track? Why did I think I could do this? This is more difficult than I thought. I’ll never finish this…

We can also doubt God in times of waiting. Fear, in combination with doubt, can make us misunderstand our Heavenly Father’s intention toward us. We may feel pretty desperate when we can’t feel His love.

But when I look at life through God’s lens, I see that, quite often, God is waiting for us!! Waiting for us to do what He said (obey), waiting for us to stop trying to control outcomes, waiting for us to have a better attitude…

God only has good in store for us. Instead of giving up on us, He gently coaches us along. If we seek Him while we wait, the time seems to be better spent.

When I think about it that way, it prompts me to consider how closely I am following Jesus. I want to walk in step with Him because then I will be in His perfect timing.

I don’t want to miss anything He has for me!

Praise God, there are several things we never have to wait for. To start, we have immediate access to God’s presence, salvation, and forgiveness. Today is the day of salvation!

We don’t have to wait on God to listen to Him, trust Him, obey Him, gain godly wisdom, or have internal peace. We also don’t have to wait to be kind, gentle, or gracious to others!

God is faithful. He knows exactly what we need…when we need it.

He is not slow in keeping His promises… He is patient with us. His love never fails!

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Heavenly Father, thanks for being so patient with me. Help me walk closely in-step with You, Lord. Help me listen and obey as You lead me. Thank you for directing my path! In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Question: What are you waiting for currently? Are you doing everything God has asked you to do?

Task: Determine to follow the Holy Spirit’s leading. It may be difficult, but He is eager to help you!