Tag: relax

Posted on in Being Gracious, Gratitude, Kindness, Miscellaneous

Garage Door Tune-Up

Happy Thanksgiving! This has been a busy week already! Maybe you feel the same way?!

On Monday morning, I made a list of everything I needed to do after coming home from work. I felt a little overwhelmed, mostly because I didn’t want to forget anything! I prayed for God’s help as I went about my day!

First, I needed to finish wrapping some presents for Lydia’s birthday (on Tuesday). I also wanted to work on this post early so I could focus on her special day. She wanted to enjoy a nice meal and watch a movie. I didn’t want her to feel rushed.

And, of course, it happens to be a holiday week! Lydia and I plan to make a few simple dishes tomorrow. I’m looking forward to a fun day together, but there’s a lot to do before then.

Finally, about a month ago, I wrote that my garage door needed a rubber weather stripping replaced (see picture below). The special order piece took a while to arrive, and on Monday evening, my neighbor came over to help me install it! He works for a garage door company, so together, we were able to install it quickly.

As we tested the door, my neighbor saw a sliver of light shining through, which meant the door was not coming down all the way. I had noticed this over the last month but had forgotten to mention it earlier. My neighbor climbed his small ladder and opened the garage door motor. I handed him a few small tools, and he adjusted the mechanism until the door shut correctly.

By then, he offered to change the lightbulb in the garage motor unit. While up there, he noticed the garage door chain was a little loose. So, naturally, he wanted to tighten that up!

I was so grateful as I watched my neighbor tune-up my garage door. Not only did he help with the original issue, but he was thorough in looking at the entire door. He didn’t stop just when it was convenient. He stayed and did a complete job.

Surprisingly, it feels like I have a new garage door! I can already tell the garage is warmer and quieter, and this year, I should avoid getting snow under my garage door.

That reminds me of God’s grace and provision. I had been waiting patiently for weeks, rescheduling a few times because the piece wasn’t in. I had hoped the chore would be done earlier so I wouldn’t be jammed as this week got closer. I specifically tried to plan ahead! Yet, it seems God used this very thing to slow me down and notice His blessings in a big way.

First, I really appreciated God gave me a good blog topic a whole day early! It was so cool that He perfectly orchestrated my week. God is so gracious and fixed my door, but He also went above and beyond by addressing things I didn’t even know were wrong!

And because of all that, I was able to be fully present with Lydia on her birthday. She is now twelve and was counting down her birthday for months. Lydia is such a treasure to me, and I didn’t want to be distracted by house tasks or my blog. As a single mom, my time is sometimes divided, and I never want to give her less than she deserves!

While these things are important to me, my sweet girl comes first! Lydia would not quite understand my potential dilemma, so I didn’t burden her with it. I’m just grateful I didn’t have to choose – God made it easy for me!

**********

God, thanks for organizing my week so I can get things done and be fully present. Thanks for the gift of Lydia. Help me be the best mom I can be! In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Do you have any special plans for Thanksgiving? What are you grateful for this week?

Tasks: Let God direct your path this week. Be grateful for detours and setbacks, as they may lead to a greater blessing!

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

Finding Grace #402

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 Stonecrop Sedum photo and picture

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

This was another great week, and I took part in several impactful conversations! A dear friend asked for special prayer for her family, and I was glad she got some answers this week. I have not heard the updates yet, but will keep praying for her.

Early in the week, I checked in with a few ladies who are leading small groups at church. I have been a designated prayer partner for them and am helping them navigate any issues that arise. We had a few random problems to solve this week, and I was glad God could use me behind the scenes.

On Wednesday, I had a great time discussing general church topics with a friend at Alpha. It was so fun to hear her perspective and learn about her faith background. She is thinking about being baptized soon, and I have been encouraging her!

At work, I took on some new (temporary) responsibilities I will be doing during the two maternity leaves. So far, one lady is out of the office and one should be going any day. I wanted to jump right in, so I set up a couple of home visits for next week. Should be interesting!

Today, I had coffee with a friend, and we discussed her desire to write a book! She wanted to know where to start and what to expect, so we talked through some ideas and I filled her in on the writing process. Her husband used to work with Dave, so it was really great to catch up.

The weather was gorgeous and fairly warm (50s) for this time of year. It was near perfect, and I made sure not to take it for granted. Tonight, I finally finished cutting back the sedum in the front yard flower garden. Now, it is ready for winter (though I am hoping it holds off a little longer!).

**********

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, Faith, and Moving Forward book, Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Food and Nutrition, Gratitude, Journey of Grace, Kindness, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Parenting, Perseverance

Finding Grace #401

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

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

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

This was a great week, full of God’s grace!!

On Sunday, Lydia and I attended a Scotland Forever orchestra concert. It was delightful, and I envisioned God as the Master composer and conductor of our lives. He is faithful and good!

On Wednesday,  I enjoyed talking with a couple of ladies. In each conversation, we talked about our faith journeys. It was so cool to see how God came through for them, and I was able to share my story and book with them, too!

It was a short work week because of Veterans Day (observed on Friday). Lydia and I had a relaxing day after some plans were canceled. We have had colds off and on, so it was so nice to not have a huge agenda. I did some gentle exercise and completed a few chores and paperwork, while Lydia read and played some games on her tablet. It was perfect!

Today, I had to work on actual Veterans Day. I previously traded with a coworker, and I am glad because I had eleven Veterans to chart on, and she is due to have twins any day! It was a lot of work to do solo, but I am glad she didn’t have to do it! It was an honor to serve these heroes today.

After working until 3:00 p.m. today (three hours longer than I expected!), I took Lydia to Chik-Fil-A. She has only been there once and was patient all week… and today, she was waiting for me to finish at work. It was nearly 4:00 p.m. before I had lunch! I had some crackers at work, but hadn’t thought I would need to bring lunch! Oh well, it all worked out just fine, and we went to Kohl’s to make some returns and do a little shopping afterward. 🙂

This week, I made some yummy dishes, which included a pumpkin chili, fresh cranberry applesauce, and a veggie tray! I love this time of year!

**********

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, Food and Nutrition, Fruit, Gratitude, Miscellaneous, Parenting

Finding Grace #400

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 Leaves Autumn photo and picture

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

This was a solid week with lots going on each night after work and school. And work was busy as usual, too!

On Monday, Lydia and I went to the chiropractor for routine adjustments. I’m thankful to have finally found a female chiropractor just a few minutes away. We go every couple months, and I feel much better physically than I did even a year ago.

Tuesdays are usually my blog writing days (well, nights), but this week, it was also Halloween. I had to shovel new snow in the early morning before work. (Most of it has melted!) Then, Lydia went trick-or-treating with a friend, while I stayed home to pass out candy and write. It was a good night, and we enjoyed some classic chocolate treats!

We had a good Wednesday night at church. My Alpha group talked about the topic of evil in the world and how we get distracted from God’s purposes. Lydia said the youth group topic was about dealing with fear. Timely topics all around!

On Thursday, Lydia had her first orchestra concert! It was a combined program with the middle school and high school (6th -12th grades, of course). I sent the link to my family, and it was so cool that they got to watch from several states and time zones. Lydia had a blast and can’t wait for the next concert!

Last night, Lydia and I made chicken fajitas and a delicious fruit salad after I got home from work and coffee with a friend. Then, we relaxed and watched a movie after a long week!

Today, Lydia is not feeling as well, so she is taking it easy. I am trying to get caught up around the house and also doing a little relaxing. I’m thankful for Saturdays!

**********

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, Faith, and Moving Forward book, Fear/Don't Fake Brave, Gratitude, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Personality, Pivot, Prayer, Wisdom, Worship

Purpose in Provision

This week, I received a glowing performance appraisal at work, per usual. It was just what I expected because I do my best and the requirements are clear.  While I love what I do, and do it well, I sometimes compare my success or reward with others (even though I don’t have all the details to judge accurately!).

Instead of going into a downward spiral, I started thinking about all the ways God has provided for me, all the ways He recognizes or acknowledges me when others don’t. Sometimes, we feel we have everything we need, and sometimes, we feel lack. That doesn’t mean God is doing a poor job; perhaps we just lose our perspective occasionally. 

We may feel overlooked, forgotten, or unappreciated. It’s easy to focus on what someone else has or is doing and wish we had that, too. We want that friendship or relationship. We want the same chance or deal. We covet the opportunity, promotion, or the level of responsibility.

Often, there are hidden downsides to success. Just because someone looks successful doesn’t mean they appreciate it or have no other problems.

Free Mountains Forest photo and picture

I wonder how much time, effort, and skill it must’ve taken to get where that person is. In most cases, there are no overnight successes but just years of grueling labor.

Am I willing to do whatever it took for them to get there? These days, I’d say the chance is low, lol. I like my time and freedom! But if I do want to challenge myself, then I should start taking steps and learning now.

Flipping it around, I am reminded of what it took to get me here. It was quite the journey, and yet I am so grateful for all the ways God has shown up just for me…. with personalized provision for whatever I am going through each time. He is faithful!

In the off-chance that someone cheated or something truly was not fair, they will get what they have coming to them. It may take a little time, but God is just!

But, when life doesn’t seem fair, I remember that I am no longer of this world. I am a citizen of Heaven, and my Father knows exactly what I need. If there is any lack, King Jesus will soon make it right, so I don’t need to worry. His purpose for me is unique, so His provision is unique to my circumstances and environment. 

God’s purpose and provision are linked! I don’t need to compare ourselves or feel less than. If I stay close to Jesus, I will be right on track and have everything I need.

Free Mountain Banff photo and picture

I have a beautiful house, great neighbors, and an awesome family. I also have a job I feel was crafted just for me. I have favor with God, my manager, and my coworkers. Each of us has different qualifications and responsibilities that match. Each of us brings positive energy and a host of skills to our strong team. I just happen to work part-time with a nearly full-time schedule. I mentor others at work, and I am still available when Lydia needs me.

If my particular skills aren’t always recognized or rewarded, maybe that’s a good reminder that they are not the most important thing. I am called to serve, not gain attention. If there is something I need, God will make sure I get it in due time. (Psalm 84:11).

In fact, read John 21, paying attention to verse 22. Jesus wants us to focus on our own relationship with Him because our mission flows out of that. The best thing we can do is stay close to Him.

There are several things each of us can do while we wait. We can show up with a smile, do our best, and be honest. We can practice self-care (making sure we are eating well, moving a little, and sleeping enough). We can honor those around us and love them like Jesus. We can cultivate peace, joy, and contentment, along with gratitude and patience. Character counts!

Fear, self-centeredness, and lack seem to run together, don’t they? Instead, Jesus showed us how to live with an outward-focused, faith-filled, abundant life. Whatever purpose He has for us, we can be confident it includes His peace, preparation, and provision. He always comes through for us and knows exactly what we need!

**********

God, thanks for Your peace and provision! You take such good care of Your children. Help us remember You prepare us and provide for us according to Your unique purposes for us. Help us use all our strengths for Your glory. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: What are you doing to invest in your future? Are you complaining or planting seeds?

Tasks: Next time you feel slighted or overlooked, remember all the ways God takes care of you. Make a list if you have to! Remain close to Jesus. He is so good!

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

Finding Grace #399

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 Fall Avenue photo and picture

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

This week was relatively low-key. It was busy with a few surprises but mostly routine.

On Monday, I moved the deck furniture inside in anticipation of wintery weather later in the week. I moved the benches, patio table, and chairs into the garage. I also took in my windchimes so they don’t crack in the icy cold.

While my dad helped me with a dozen house projects, I found one more that needed some work. My garage door needs a new piece of weatherstripping. I asked a neighbor for help, and he special ordered the item for me since it is longer than the standard. When it comes in a couple of weeks, he will help me install it. Thanks, Lord, for good neighbors!

Speaking of neighbors, Lydia and I met some new neighbors renting the house directly across from us. We took them some cookies and answered some questions about the garbage, recycling, and snow removal responsibilities. They are from Idaho, but I hope they feel welcome!

Early Friday morning, we received the first snowfall of the season! I’d say it was less than an inch and was mostly just slush. October snow is early but not necessarily unusual. Right now, it is quite pretty and may melt off before we get more!

Last night, Lydia and I made a recipe that she picked out. I want her to develop her cooking skills, and it was a little more complicated than she realized. We had fun working together, and the cheesy pasta dish (with veggies and panko topping) was delicious!

Today, I went to a church retreat! It was fun to hang out with people who love God. We talked about the Holy Spirit, and I ministered to a friend who sat at my table. The food was tasty, and then our team won the minute-to-win-it style games! It was a nice way to relax.

**********

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, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Wisdom

Help On the Homefront

Lydia and I were so thrilled when my mom and dad came to visit last week! This was the first time they’ve been here since they moved to Florida, and it was a joy and an honor to host them again. My parents are so wise, fun, and just plain cool. They are good examples of hard work and perseverance, and I look up to them!

Mom and Lydia hit it off and did a little shopping. Mom also encouraged Lydia’s musical goals and also reinforced some of the life lessons I am teaching her. I appreciate she was there to plant seeds in Lydia’s heart – and to back me up on some key topics! She is another wise voice who can speak life and truth to Lydia. I am so grateful.

I had a small list of things I wanted input on, mostly minor repairs. The list quickly grew to about a DOZEN different things, but my dad helped me complete most of the projects in just a few days!

As a single parent and homeowner with no family nearby, all of the responsibilities come to me. I make all the major decisions for my household on my own, and while I am comfortable with that, it sometimes weighs on me. It was so nice to set that all aside last week and have help with figuring things out. I thoroughly enjoyed my dad’s “kid in a candy store” excitement at going to Menards since they don’t have that home improvement store in Florida. He really misses it, apparently! 😀

Dad helped me look up some regulations about a fence adjoining my property and helped me craft an email to the City. With his background in construction and inspections, he knew where to find the information I needed. He also gave me some ideas for landscaping and a small painting project next summer. I took notes so I can remember!

I asked my dad for input on my gutters, new weatherstripping on my garage door, and paint for my little free library. I did a little maintenance on the library before I put on a new coat of red paint! This will set it up well for the winter, and hopefully, the wood will stay in good shape for many years.

My dad added a few washers to the track/drawer in Lydia’s dresser drawer. Somehow it got warped and has been a problem for about ten years! I have tried and tried to fix it but never noticed the problem like he did. In fact, we accomplished more in a few hours than I have in weeks or months…. even years. I aim to keep my house and yard in good repair, so finishing these tasks was a BIG relief!

What’s more, Dad found some other things to fix that weren’t on my list! He suggested I trim my three backyard trees. I bought a new little bow saw and went to it. He then added a new bolt to the gate on my deck. I tried fixing it last year, but I probably just didn’t choose a long enough screw or bolt. He also fixed the sliding glass door and screen, both of which have never worked that well. He also fixed my microwave door and tightened up a few parts. It’s as good as new!

God wants us to be good stewards of the resources He has given us. In fact, Jesus wants us to build our lives on Him, but sometimes we need a little hands-on help in our actual houses. (Read Matthew 7:24-27)

Indeed, it was a special blessing that my parents came, and I am grateful for all the help on the homefront! Everything will work much better now, and I can take a little mental break from home repairs!

**********

God, thanks for the gift of my parents. Thanks for their wisdom and guidance, as well as their help and encouragement. Help us steward and share the gifts and resources You have given us for Your glory. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Are you handy with tools? Do you enjoy working with your hands in practical ways, or do you prefer abstract ideas? What is God asking you to steward well?

Tasks: If you have any fall or winter house tasks that need to be done, now’s your chance. In Fargo, the weather is changing rapidly, with potential snow on the way!

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Gratitude, Life is Short, Miscellaneous

Finding Grace #398

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 Autumn Leaves Ilse photo and picture

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

This week was wonderful and relaxing, though I got a lot done! We Zoomed with family on Sunday, which happened to be my mom’s birthday. I always appreciate time with family… and mine is pretty cool!

Monday was the only day I worked, but it went well. I took the rest of the week off to spend time with my parents! They came to visit on Tuesday and headed back to Florida today. We had an amazing time!

My dad helped me with quite a few house projects, some that I have been trying to figure out for years. We went shopping and enjoyed eating out at some new restaurants. We watched several episodes of ‘The Chosen,’ too! It was the best week with them.

Tonight, Lydia was invited to hang out with a friend, so I had some free time! First, I did a little cleaning and exercising. Now, I am watching a movie!

**********

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, Parenting

More Meaningful Multicultural Moments

“Mom, this is another letter that starts, “Greetings from Paul!'” Lydia said. I had to laugh a bit, as she’s been reading a lot of the Bible’s New Testament lately. The Apostle Paul did write quite a bit of it, namely in letters to believers in various cities. He interacted with several different cultures all over the Mediterranean region!

I was still thinking about this Saturday night when we attended a birthday party for an African boy in Lydia’s grade. These are the immigrants we met last year at the bus stop – and the very first thing I asked them was if they had snow gear!

In full disclosure, I was so happy to be invited, but I wasn’t quite up for going. It had been a long day with a delivery, phone calls, laundry, and feeling crummy from my flu shot the day before (for work). I was tired.

Nonetheless, we wrapped up a couple of LEGO kits and decided to go for a little while before returning home. However, I knew leaving early could be a bit of a challenge because of certain cultural differences regarding time.

Free earth world planet illustration

You see, I am prompt and hate to be late… but sometimes others consider time differently. The invitation said 5:30 p.m., but the mother told me to come “anytime after 6 p.m.” So, we decided to go right around 6 o’clock and were the third family to arrive.

The younger brother (fifth grade) started to answer the door, but he ran away before opening it to tell everyone, “Lydia came, Lydia came!!” Then, the younger sister (third grade) came and peeked out the window as well. She also squealed and ran to get her dad, who thankfully opened the door. Seeing their excitement, immediately, I was glad we came.

They gave us a tour of their new house, having moved from a small apartment a few weeks before. My friend and some other ladies warmly greeted us as they made fried rice. Many of these people also work in healthcare – highly qualified doctors, nurses, and CNAs. Some of them are immigrants, as well.

Within a few minutes of arriving, I smelled the delicious food and forgot I hadn’t felt well for much of the day. I decided to stay awhile, especially when my friend introduced me as his “first friend here in Fargo who welcomed his family.”

Later, I ate some goat meat stew, jollof rice, as well as seasoned beef and chicken. I chatted with a high school student who happens to play the viola. I’ll be sure to look for her when she and Lydia’s schools have a combined concert in November.

Free Jollof Jollof Rice photo and picture

This girl’s mom took a while to warm up to me. She questioned if I had ever had African food before (yes, I have!) and made some other comments. Perhaps she felt like I was invading her cultural safe zone. I did not take offense, as it’s likely she’s experienced much more discrimination than me. Thankfully, we soon bonded over some drinks, and by the end, she offered to share her food with me. 

Two hours later, we finally decided to go. I thanked my friends and hugged them goodbye. I waved to everyone else, and they all seemed grateful we came. It was a fun night, and I carried the weight (impact) of it home with me!

The next morning, I received a text from the family thanking us for coming. They were “especially surprised” that we stayed the whole time. 🙂 I’m so glad I decided to stay.

I’m sure the Apostle Paul felt like this sometimes. Looking for commonalities with people who were so different. Having awkward conversations at times and some misunderstandings. Hitting roadblocks but bonding over food and faith. Bringing the Good News of Jesus to everyone he met. These nuances require compassion, wisdom, and persistence.

Isn’t God good?! I love how we can always lean on Jesus. When He is present, nothing else matters as much. Not only are we His ambassadors, we can become brothers and sisters in Christ! All around the world, His love changes lives… and we are conduits of His grace.

**********

God, thanks for all the ways You love us. Thanks for creating so many different types of people. And thanks for opening up a way for people all over the world to know You, through Jesus. Help us bring Your light everywhere we go. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Have you ever had authentic African food? Do you enjoy trying new things?

Tasks: Next time you are invited somewhere new, go and stay awhile. Try new things and don’t be the first to leave. Perhaps look at it as being on mission for the Lord. Be His ambassador (2 Corinthians 5:20) and share His love!

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

Never and Always

Driving to work recently, I heard another ‘radio reminder’ of God’s grace. I was listening to the song “Never” by Tasha Layton and was moved. The chorus of her song talks about how God has never abandoned her:

Never forgotten
Never forsaken
Never abandoned
Not for a second
I am safe in Your hands
Always and forever
You’re never not working
My heart is the proof
There’s not a broken too broken for You
Will there ever come a day when You’re not holding me together?
You say “never”

Free Stones Pebbles photo and picture

Of course, the opposite of never is always. So, I started thinking of how God is always present and always there for me. He always provides for me, protects me, and showers me with His unending love. Every step I take is filled with an overwhelming level of grace.

He is always faithful and always leads me forward (occasionally pushing or pulling, as needed!). He always comes through for me!

It also hit me how the extremes of never and always impact me. It has been said, “never say never,” but I really can’t “always say always” either. Neither is physically possible or wise. Even in those moments where I can “sometimes say sometimes,” I am easily wiped out if I need to maintain the effort for too long.

While I can’t handle such extremes, I am grateful that God can. Jesus Himself was a man of extremes yet abundant grace and self-control. He was a part of creation (the Word), and then put on human flesh as a needy baby. Jesus lived without sin and then lived a nomadic life in his adult years. He was later betrayed, scourged, and nailed to the cross, asking God to forgive those who wanted Him dead. And if that wasn’t extreme enough, three days later, Jesus was raised to life again before eventually ascending into Heaven!

I am so glad that Jesus did all the difficult work… because we just can’t. Although life is tough sometimes and can feel extreme, we can rest knowing that nothing is out of bounds for God. We can sleep restfully because He never does (Psalm 121:4).

Yes, there is great peace in knowing God operates in the extremes. He is far above and far beyond anything that comes at us. His holiness is extreme, but He also removes our sins as far as the East is from the West – another extreme only He can handle because the two will never meet (Psalm 103:12). Nothing is impossible for Him!

So, today, I hope you are able to rest in God’s ‘extremeness.’ Work hard, sure, but know that He is your strength and shield. He is your protector and provider. He is carrying you!

**********

Heavenly Father, thanks for Your extreme love and grace. It can be difficult to accept Your love and grace sometimes, but thanks for the reminder that we don’t need to be perfect or suffer alone. Help us rely on You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: How are you handling life’s extremes right now, and what can you learn? Are you trying to handle them on your own, or are you taking them directly to Jesus?

Tasks: Think about the extremes in the post above, in addition to the many extremes we see in Nature (climate patterns, landscapes, animal species/size/colors/eating habits, etc.). Pray about how God wants to show up for you today… then rest in His mighty, capable hands!