Tag: Rest

Posted on in Gratitude, Journey of Grace, Miscellaneous, Prayer, Worship

A Time for Healing

Sometimes God brings things full circle when we least expect it…

To start, the last gift I ever received from Dave was a gift certificate for Mother’s Day to a local massage place. I had been having a lot of neck and shoulder pain, and massage generally seemed to help. Plus, it was nice to be pampered!

Back in 2013, when I finally used the gift certificate, I burst into tears as soon as the massage therapist started. She stopped and asked me if I was okay. I explained that my husband had recently died and this massage was reminding me of him. She was very understanding and spoke comforting words to me.

Honestly, I have had noticeable back, shoulder, and neck pain for many years, noticable even in college around the time Dave and I met (in 2000). This is probably related to walking to campus every day with too many heavy books in my backpack! Perhaps, I did not focus on proper posture or prioritize self-care amid other daily life stresses… I just accepted the pain as normal for so many years.

While my pain may not be as bad as someone else’s pain, it has hindered my choice to be as active as I would like. I have gone “easy” when exercising, in order to not make the pain worse. The pain has been building over time, and I haven’t wanted to push myself.

Flash forward through many massages, yoga, chiropractic care, a new mattress, several new pillows, and various contraptions to “help” my pain in the 7.5 years since Dave died… I have spent a fair amount of money trying to find the missing link in becoming well again!

Well, I recently found ‘one more thing’ that promised to build shoulder strength. It seemed fairly simple and only takes a few minutes. By focusing on several muscles, it helps cover any other weak or torn areas. The tool is called ROTATOReliever (not an affiliate), and I figured the money-back guarantee was worth me trying it.

To my great relief, my pain has been nearly eliminated!

I can now sit up fully straight with no issues, other than if I sleep funny or start to slouch or am at my computer for a long time. I have been amazed to have long periods of no pain at all. I’m pinching myself, and wondering if it will last. I am also doing more exercises and challenging myself more.

I am still being careful, to some degree because I don’t want to blow my success! I will certainly keep up with these new habits to maintain being pain-free, but at this point, I am calling it a win. I have been praying for healing all these years!

Then, to bring it back around, this week, I was off from work on Monday. I decided to use up what remained of another massage gift certificate (from my birthday). My massage therapist is moving to a new location, so I wanted to use it up before she leaves.

I did not expect things to come full circle, but this time, she was the emotional one. She said she was nervous to open her own business, and I did my best to encourage her. I really appreciate this massage therapist’s approach to body work, and I will likely follow her to her new practice.

But, throughout the massage, I kept bracing myself for the usual pain. I kept waiting for the first twinge, but then I noticed something. I had no pain at all! This was a first for me, and it caught me by surprise and made me praise God! What a breakthrough to have little to no pain! Not only that, but I was also able to encourage someone who comforted me when I really needed it before.

Sometimes, God brings immediate, miraculous healing. But, most often, healing takes time. Changing our habits takes effort, as there are many layers to growth! Success is not just from one tool, but from many positive changes all adding up. And still at other times, He takes us to Heaven for a more complete healing. No matter how he does it, He is faithful.

Whatever season you find yourself in, remember to trust God. He is with you and for you; He will make all things right in His time. Nothing surprises God, and nothing is impossible for Him. Perhaps He wants to use you (and your joy or pain) to bless someone else. Either way, He’s got your covered with His grace!

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God, thanks for Your healing touch! Thanks for not only restoring my heart and body, but also for letting me encourage others. Help me extend Your grace to others so they may experience Your goodness, too. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: What life season do you find yourself in? Are you content or not? Do you have more joy or more pain? Are there any changes you can make? How can you turn the situation over to God?

Tasks: Read Ecclesiastes Chapter 3. Time does not heal all wounds, but God can and does. Trust Him!

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

Finding Grace #240

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 a great week! It was just as full, but for whatever reason, it was less stressful. Maybe it was because I went shopping one afternoon and even squeezed in a nap. At any rate, I was grateful for God’s grace and goodness.

On Wednesday, a friend took Lydia to church again. I went to pick her up a little later, but it was helpful to have some extra time at home preparing for the rest of the week.

Friday night was spent with the same friend (and others) at church praying for our nation. There are so many issues we are facing, personally and in our communities and beyond. Prayer is so important and I appreciated meeting together with these wise people as we sought the Lord’s help.

Today, Lydia and I enjoyed time outside at a local park and then went to a local farmer’s market. We bought some veggies and sampled a few treats. We also walked through part of a historical neighborhood enjoying the beautiful houses on this sunny day. Then, she played outside while I worked on a project and made veggie lasagna using the biggest zucchini I have ever seen!

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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, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Wisdom

The Benefits of Looking Back

I am currently reading a book series by Lynn Austin, called Chronicles of the Kings. For me, reading is a fun way to relax. I love being transported to different locations and time periods. I enjoy learning and dreaming along with the characters.

In this series, the author takes the true Biblical account of King Hezekiah and adds fictional details to flesh out the story. The Bible doesn’t tell us each and every detail, so we are left to fill in the gaps. We have to be careful, yes, not to add too much or misinterpret the words… but I think this series was well written, overall.

Historical fiction is one of my favorite genres, because I learn about history in an exciting way, as if I was there. I generally remember more of the details, facts, and life lessons. In terms of Biblical fiction, it helps to consider what happened beyond the text.

(The author uses other traditional Jewish resources to make some assumptions, but provides most relevant Scripture references, too.)

Right now, I am in the third book, The Strength of His Hand, and this is where King Hezekiah gets very sick. The Bible doesn’t explain what the sickness was, though other sources say it was related to a boil or inflammation of some sort.

The author writes her theory into the story, of course. I won’t ruin it for you, but I thought it was compelling.Either way, the King is close to death and indeed, Isaiah hears from Yahweh that he will die.

Isaiah goes to tell this to Hezekiah and then mournfully leaves (Isaiah 38). Then, Hezekiah prays to God and weeps. Soon, Isaiah returns with good news. Hezekiah will live.

Hezekiah asks for a sign, and per the Bible, the shadow moved back ten steps. He does recover within three days, just like Isaiah prophesied. He lives another fifteen years.

In the book, when King Hezekiah was sick, I was also thinking of what I already knew about the story. I had forgotten about Isaiah’s prophecy, but I did recall Hezekiah lived.

 I didn’t know how the author was going to reconcile the Biblical account with her fictional narrative, but I knew it would all work out somehow. You see, I had the advantage of seeing King Hezekiah’s story through the lens of Scripture, after the fact.

God’s Word, the Bible, is living and active. Its power is unchanging and its lessons are just as applicable today as they were thousands of years ago.

At the same time, each of us can trust God with today’s challenges, because we know He came through for us yesterday, last week, and last year… There are benefits when we look back and see God’s faithfulness. His love never fails!

When we trust God to write our story, we most certainly will face many unknowns and fearful moments. This is a normal part of life on Earth, but thankfully, we see all throughout the Bible that God shines most when we seek Him in our difficult circumstances!

All our present trials might become more bearable if we could envision what our future self will think, or how others will one day praise God for how He came through for us. There is purpose in our pain, and God will use that for His glory and our good. Trust Him!

Remember He is with you and for you; the best is yet to come!

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God, thanks for letting us see You at work in Scripture. Help us have faith today. Help us trust that You will come through for us. You always do! Show us the benefits of looking back, but don’t let us get stuck in the past. You are are hope for today and tomorrow, too. Thank You! In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: When you look back through Scripture, or even your own life, do you see how He came through for you in the past? What does that mean for you today?

Tasks: Make a list of all the ‘evidence’ of God’s faithfulness. List your most trying times and write down how God helped you through them. Then, fan the flames of faith and trust God today.

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Gratitude, Miscellaneous, Perseverance

Finding Grace #239

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, but really good! A friend came over on Sunday, and then we had our family Zoom time. My little nephew gets cuter by the day!

On Tuesday, Lydia and I took advantage of an opportunity for free mulch down the block from us. We took five loads/roundtrips with a shovel, loaded wheelbarrow, two 5-gallon buckets, and another small bucket, but we got all our steps in and then some!

Work was a little slower paced and more manageable this week. It seemed quieter with less activities, and I appreciated the chance to catch up! That said, I am grateful for the work God has given me to do! 

Yesterday, I fixed my coffee maker and saved a fair amount of money (by not replacing it). It had recently started leaking water underneath, which was odd. So, I went shopping for a new one, but they didn’t have it in store. Then, I researched similar models, but finally decided to try fixing mine, and as a backup, order one next week. Thankfully, I found a couple videos online. One person had taken their machine completely apart, while another used a dremel. I tried the first way, but it was very tricky. So, I borrowed a dremel from my neighbors and reattached the hose (in back). Success!

Then, in the evening, Lydia and I made some chocolate chip cookies, watched a show, and called my parents (to tell them a couple jokes). We enjoyed the quality time together!

Today, I graded some assignments, worked on a couple projects, cleaned the house, replaced a faulty light switch in the bathroom, and ran some errands with Lydia. She especially enjoyed walking around the arts and crafts store!

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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, Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Parenting, Perseverance

Finding Grace #236

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 good week. I picked up a few extra hours at the VA and had a great time teaching my students. On Labor Day, I was off from the VA, but had two Zoom calls for Concordia. I was glad for the slower pace because the rest of the week was full!

On Wednesday, I mowed the lawn after work. I looked ahead and saw potential rain, so I took advantage of the timing and gorgeous weather. It was cool but calm! Mowing early in the week helped free me up later in the week. It did rain a little, but I also worked extra hours and had a few activities planned with Lydia. 

School went well for Lydia this week! She had fun learning and even was stretched as she tackled some personal fears with success. She seems to be adjusting well!

Today, a friend came over for our writer’s group. We always have fun discussing our ongoing projects. Then, Lydia and I did some cleaning and are relaxing tonight!

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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, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Prayer

Finding Grace #235

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 jam-packed week! On Sunday, we hung out with an African friend, and she made food from her homeland of Ghana. It was soooo yummy!

Monday was loaded with activity! Work was busy at the VA, and then Lydia had a class in the evening. I also bought some treats for a coworker’s birthday. All of these things went well, but I had so much on my mind in terms of details and such. I stayed up late and got up early all week long trying to stay on top of everything.

The rest of the week was full with nonstop activities and many details to remember. Most everything was fulfilling and purposeful, but there was just so much going on. It was a little stressful at times! On Wednesday, I stayed a couple extra hours at work to care for a Veteran. It, too, was a very good experience; it was just unexpected to stay so late. 

On Thursday, Lydia started school (hybrid model)! She was confident in her new shoes and did not seem to nervous. She said her class washed their hands more than she thought they would: every hour, coming and going, eating, and transitioning to other activities. I hope it is a good experience overall; she did not complain too much about her mask.

On Friday, I taught my nutrition class again! I am really enjoying it, and I am learning more technology skills. I appreciate being able to come and go, and organize and teach how I want. It is a fun experience for me, and I am really grateful to be there! Also, on Friday afternoon, I picked up a few hours at the VA to help cover while others had the day off. It was good because I was able to get caught up on some of my tasks after a busy week!

Today, I enjoyed sleeping in after a long week. I made some rice krispy treats with Lydia and watched a movie while working on a project. A nice way to relax!

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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 Journey of Grace, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Parenting, Perfectionism, Perseverance, Prayer, Worship

The Same Power

Some weeks are smooth sailing, while others feel chaotic right from the start. Usually, most things go well enough, but there are days when it is difficult to stay on top of everything. This started out as one of those weeks! 🙂

I usually prefer to have at least a basic idea of what needs done when, but this week, I feel like I am still catching up. Periodically I have the nagging sense that I am forgetting something. I probably just need more sleep!

On Monday, I received three emails from students in my nutrition class, while at my other job. They were confused about what needed to be done. The students had misread the syllabus, so there was no real problem, but it was something I needed to address sooner rather than later.

Then, after work and daycare, I picked Lydia up. We made it home and were preparing for dinner before we needed to leave for an evening activity. We had enough time, so I decided to get a head start on the birthday treat I was going to make for someone at work.

That’s when I questioned if the treat I had planned was a good idea afterall. This person has a food allergy, and even though I planned ahead, I decided to buy something instead just to be safe. So, Lydia and I raced across town to visit a special bakery to by some allergen-friendly cookies before they closed. We just made it!

We had just enough time at home for a quick supper before the evening activity, a class for Lydia. She had a great time and was super chatty afterward. She wanted to play a game with me and kept on talking. She shared her heart on several topics indeed!

While I was listening to Lydia recap her day, I realized if I hadn’t bought the special cookies, I would have missed the quality time with her. She was so excited after her class, and it felt like a priceless opportunity. Someday, that may change, so I am soaking them up!

All of Monday’s events felt stressful at first glance. I really was just focused on getting through the next couple of days. But, when my plans failed, God reminded me His ways are better. He even gave me time with Lydia in the evening that I wouldn’t have had otherwise.

Tuesday also turned out differently than planned, but this time, I just rolled with it. I prayed for God’s help, and He blessed my day. I didn’t accomplish everything on my list, but I did my best and had peace about it. His grace is sufficient!

18 “I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in his holy people, 19 and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is the same as the mighty strength 20 he exerted when he raised Christ from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, 21 far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every name that is invoked, not only in the present age but also in the one to come. 22 And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church, 23 which is his body, the fullness of him who fills everything in every way.”– Ephesians 1:18-23, NIV

I’m so glad we don’t have do life solo or in our own strength. Our success in life does not depend entirely upon what us! Sure, we each have to do our part, but we can rely on Almighty God. He is the One we live for, and His Spirit is ready to helps us. (Zechariah 4:6)

If you belong to God, you have full access to God the Father, Jesus the Son, and the Holy Spirit… the very same power that raised Jesus from the dead is alive in us. Don’t forget it!

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God, thanks for all You do for me. Thanks for the gentle reminders that I should depend on Your strength alone. I choose to rely on Your Power, Lord, which far exceeds any of my problems. Help me persevere and walk victoriously with You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: How is your week going so far? Are you operating in your own efforts and resources or are you relying on and asking God for His limitless strength and grace?

Tasks: Listen to this song, by Jeremy Camp, and memorize Romans 8:11.

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

Finding Grace #234

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 busy, but fulfilling week! On Sunday, Lydia got a new pair of shoes for school. We also met her teacher this week, and Lydia made sure her desk and locker are ready to go for her first day next week! With the current COVID guidelines, she will have about ten kids in her cohort, with the other thirteen kids in her class are in the other cohort (attending on different days). It will be an interesting year!

I had some great patients at the VA this week! Several Veterans were making good progress, which is always gratifying.

On Friday, I also taught my first nutrition class at the local college. I hope it goes well, and I can already tell it is a good fit for me. I have a lot of prep work still to do (to revise assignments and such), but I had fun meeting my students!

Today, one of Lydia’s friends came over to play. After that, we hung out with another family. We walked around some local botanical gardens and went to get frozen yogurt. We always have fun together, and I’m glad we made time to meet up!

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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, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Prayer, Wisdom, Worship

Prayer Precedes Breakthrough

When I think of this next season and semester, I am both excited for the opportunities ahead and a little nervous about how it will all play out. There are so many factors, even under normal circumstances. We have Lydia’s school and my two (part-time) positions, plus social activities and other things. Not to mention Covid-19.

Overall, Lydia and I are just going with it. We will do our best and trust God with the rest. He is with us and for us! We will get through it all with His help.

Prayer is a vital component of staying close to Jesus, and it is also a way to bless others and join God in His work. I certainly am praying for us this semester, but I am also praying for others. I pray for family, friends, neighbors, coworkers, and anyone who comes to mind!

When I am driving, I also praise God for all kinds of things I see on my way to wherever I am going. I thank Him for the beautiful day, the lovely trees, colorful flowers, little rabbits, or squirrels, and the sound of birds chirping. It helps me feel His presence.

I pray for random people who look like they need some encouragement, too. I hope others do the same for me. We all need uplifting prayer!

Generally, prayer is the first step, and it needs to be followed-up by action. But sometimes, it is the best we can do in the moment. Loving someone through prayer still invites God to work in their situation.

Once, I saw a lady in a motorized wheel chair who was crossing the street in bad weather. I prayed God would keep her safe and help her feel His love that day.

Recently, Lydia and I saw a man riding his bike. He was riding with an artificial arm, which was quite a feat, but perhaps a little difficult to use. We had a whole discussion about how brave he must be to not give up activities he enjoys just because it is difficult. We prayed for God’s protection in traffic and that he wouldn’t lose his balance or fall.

I have prayed at Target for moms of crying young kids to persevere. I often say a quick prayer for my patients (before they arrive or after they leave). I also pray for people from other cultures or lifestyles different than mine; I want them to feel loved and welcomed.

Even though I don’t know these people I pray for, it is always a good reminder that each person carries great worth. Praying for strangers gets me out of my own little bubble and helps me stay thankful. In many ways, prayer keeps me from being prideful.

Prayer changes us and our environment. Prayer precedes breakthrough.

As we enter this uncertain season, let’s be in prayer for all those around us, whether we know them or not. Sure, we can pray for our own concerns, but perhaps by praying for strangers, we will see our own challenges through another perspective.

And who knows? You may just spread God’s grace and goodness everywhere you go!!

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God, thanks for letting us partner with You in prayer! Give us wisdom and strength as we go through this next season. Help us spread Your love, goodness, and grace to all we come in contact with. Help us be Your Hands and Feet. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Are you ready for this upcoming season? How can I pray for you?

Tasks: Whether you walk or drive to work, school, or even the grocery store, keep your eyes open for anyone who needs help or prayer. Pray for them, yes, but don’t forget to offer practical support if you can!

Posted on in Food and Nutrition, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Personality, Worship

In His Hands

On Sunday, Lydia and I were talking with friends outside after church. We were talking about school with a little girl Lydia’s age. They often play together and, occasionally, have sleepovers. Our conversation included discussing school supplies, which somehow led to us talking about some clay the little girl has at home. Both girls really love art supplies!

Then, Monday, I attended orientation on the campus where I will be teaching a nutrition class this fall. I will be an adjunct instructor, and this is in addition to my VA position (in my off time). I really enjoy the academic atmosphere and the campus is quite beautiful! There are so many gorgeous trees!

I always enjoyed school and was, thankfully, good at it, so this is probably no surprise to those who know me best. I love teaching and helping people learn new ways to think and live. I also enjoy the relative quiet on campus (at least until the students arrive, haha!).

It was great to meet other new employees, as well. 

Needless to say, it was peaceful and I felt like I was in my element… all of this despite of the fact that I have a ton of organizing and preparing to do for the semester, which starts next week. I have my work cut out for me, but I’m excited for it all to come together!

When I woke up on Tuesday, I had the sense that I am right where I need to be. That said, I had the passage from Jeremiah 18:1-6 in my head:

This is the word that came to Jeremiah from the Lord: “Go down to the potter’s house, and there I will give you my message.” So I went down to the potter’s house, and I saw him working at the wheel. But the pot he was shaping from the clay was marred in his hands; so the potter formed it into another pot, shaping it as seemed best to him.

Then the word of the Lord came to me. He said, “Can I not do with you, Israel, as this potter does?” declares the Lord. “Like clay in the hand of the potter, so are you in my hand, Israel.

This passage is part of a prophecy, warning Israel of impending judgement.  There were many types of clay jars in Biblical times. Some likely carried water or held olive oil, grains, fruits, or other foods. Some might have been toys, gifts, or decorations. Each served a purpose!

Today, I am focusing on these verses above. There are at least a couple of ways to think about them. I could be scared and fight against what God is doing in my life (trying to do it my way), or I could let Him mold me and transform me into whatever plans He has for me.

Similarly, some people might read these verses and doubt, saying, “Oh, I’m only a lump of clay.” But, I read them as a challenge to dream of all God’s plans for me. He fortifies me with His strength.

With Jesus, I am more than just a lump of clay! I am a vessel. He puts me in the right environments to grow and be successful. He brings the right people to encourage me and for me to help and inspire, too. That doesn’t mean it is easy or always fun, but I know He is leading me and walking with me. Thank You, Jesus!

I have been in Fargo, ND, now for ten years. Even now, I am seeing fruit in relationships I made when I first arrived. God has been faithful and I can trust Him in the future, too. The best is yet to come!

When I relax and realize I don’t call the shots, I can let God shape my life and just ‘roll with it.’ Life is tough enough without me trying to wrestle my way through it! When I walk closely to the Lord, He prepares the way before me. He never lets me down!

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God, thanks for all You do for me. Thanks for giving me infinite value and new opportunities to grow! I know You have good plans for me, Lord. I leave it all in Your hands. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: As you prepare for this next season, are you letting God move you or are you trying to move yourself? How is that working for you?!

Tasks: If you are struggling to yield to God, ask yourself why. Pray about your feelings and ask God to help you see the big picture of what He is doing in your life. Then, trust Him.