Tag: Rest

Posted on in Fear/Don't Fake Brave, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Wisdom

Be Prepared, Not Afraid

I don’t know about you, but I could use some good news right now!

The media sure has its hands full with a world-wide epidemic during an election year!

I heard from friends in Italy (and a few other places close to home) discussing the impact of quarantine due to the Coronavirus. I also followed various media posts about people stocking up on bottled water, hand sanitizer, and toilet paper (among other necessities).

I have friends near Nashville, Tennessee, so the recent tornado that went through was quite scary. Everyone I know is safe, however, many others suffered devastating losses.

I heard a sad update yesterday that a local mom’s cancer journey is coming to an end… not the one we had hoped and prayed for. She has young children, making it all more heartbreaking.

I have had my own challenges this week, and I am sure you have, too!

Yes, bad news abounds, but we don’t have to be afraid of the unknowns.

It’s wise to be prepared for trials, but we don’t need to give in to fear.

It is wise to be informed, but we don’t need to panic.

Fear has no place in light of God’s mercy and grace.

He’s got this.

Despite life’s ups and downs, we can be grateful and cling to our Anchor.

When life gets tough and we feel overwhelmed, we can take refuge in Jesus.

We don’t have to worry and try to figure out all the details on our own.

He is the God of both BIG things and SMALL things. Nothing is impossible for Him.

There is no need for any confusion or despair! Just come to Jesus!

Trust Him and do what He says. He will prepare us and give us everything we need.

Yesterday, I listened to the radio in my car as I often do. The songs I heard helped me focus on God’s goodness and provision instead of my concerns and inabilities.

It seemed the songs were handpicked to what I was going through at that moment. The words were just what I needed to feel God’s peace and presence.

Seeing our problems from God’s perspective always changes ours!

Now that’s good news!

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Heavenly Father, thanks for Your peace, presence, and provision. You are so good and Your love never fails! Fill me with perseverance. I will not fear!! In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: In times of trouble, what is your reaction? Do you run around like Chicken Little telling everyone the sky is falling? Or, do you run to Jesus telling everyone how faithful He is?!

Tasks: Next time you feel overwhelmed by life or what you hear in the news, STOP immediately. Go straight to the Lord and get His perspective. Let His peace overwhelm you.

 

 

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

Finding Grace #209

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 long but good week! I saw God move in some big ways.

Lydia got her retainer (that she can leave in at meals, thankfully). Before her appointment, we squeezed in a Sandy’s donut stop, too! She was in pain for a couple of days but is doing well now. Lydia’s extra happy her new retainer glows in the dark!

On Wednesday, I put on a presentation at work for National Nutrition Month. I discussed recent changes to the Nutrition Facts labels. I had fun and even earned a “Golden Ticket” award! I also picked up some extra hours this week, and I am glad I could help out!

On Thursday night, several ladies came over for small group/Bible study. We had fun catching up and sharing what God is doing in our lives. We had an infant present and had fun passing him around. We also discussed the YouVersion devotional on Dangerous Prayers by Craig Groeschel!

Today, I started a John Maxwell class at church, where we read and discuss one of his books. We are going through The 15 Invaluable Laws of Growth. Ironically, I have had this book since Dave was sick, but have never finished it. Dave gave me his own birthday gift card to buy it, but then his condition further declined, so my priorities changed. Now, I appreciate the opportunity to pick up where I left off, but thankfully, I have NOT stopped growing in the meantime!

This afternoon, Lydia had fun playing outside with her friends. The weather was beautiful and sunny! We still have a lot of snow, but spring is just around the corner! Don’t forget to move your clocks forward tonight! 

Finally, I also taught Lydia how to do her own laundry today. She was pretty excited about using the washer and dryer, but still not excited to put all the clothes away!

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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, Parenting, Perseverance, Prayer, Wisdom

Expect the Impossible

It is amazing what God does when we let go of our own expectations and place them fully on Christ. What seemed impossible one minute is DONE the next!

Of course, sometimes it takes a little more time and a little more prayer.

But, Jesus always comes through for us!

Early last week, Lydia had her braces removed, and then I spent the rest of the week coaching her about her retainer. She hadn’t received it yet, but I was concerned she would accidentally break it, drop it, lose it, or toss it in the trash.

She is very reliable normally, but a replacement retainer is costly!

Then, yesterday, Lydia received the retainer before she went to school. And guess what? She doesn’t have to remove it for eating! I never had braces or a retainer, so this was a pleasant surprise for me. I realized perhaps I was worried about nothing.

In some ways, God did the impossible. Lydia got the type of retainer she can leave in at school, and I received peace of mind. Hopefully, this retainer lasts a long time, but the odds certainly went up in our favor!

Then, later in the day, as I was listening to the radio, I heard someone say, “Don’t borrow sorrows from tomorrow.” That was both catchy and somewhat ironic. 😉

“God doesn’t expect the impossible from us. He wants us to expect the impossible from Him!” –DL Moody

Then, last night, immediately after I saw the quote above, God did something that would have been impossible otherwise. I had a much-needed conversation with a close friend. I’m extremely grateful we were able to clear the air and move forward in friendship.

Honestly, I think we were both on the fence about our relationship. (We both had good reasons for how we felt, but it’s just like Satan to divide us and makes us upset at each other!)

I had been prayerfully trying to decide what to do, and God provided the opportunity in His timing. If I had spoken up earlier, it probably would have been a different outcome.

Again, each circumstance is unique, but we can trust God knows how to handle them in the best way possible. He loves each of us far more than we can ever understand and wants to help us beyond what we can imagine. He wants us to expect big things from Him!

Let’s turn our worries into prayers, knowing that nothing is impossible for Jesus!

He’s got this!

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Heavenly Father, thanks for always coming through for us. You never fail! Help us rely on your timing and expect the impossible. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Question: What impossible situation do you need to bring to the Lord?

Tasks: Whatever challenges you are facing, let go of your expectations and place them fully on Jesus. REFUSE to let your emotions get the best of you. Don’t move for any other reason other than a God-given opportunity. This takes discernment and prayer, but God will make it clear when the timing is right!

 

 

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Food and Nutrition, Miscellaneous, Parenting, Worship

Finding Grace #208

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 memorable week! It started off a little sad, however. When Dave and I were first married, we got a beautiful golden retriever. Britain was 2 years old then, and she thought she was a 60-pound lap dog! When Dave died, it was difficult to take care of the dog when I needed to care for Lydia and myself. Britain went to live with my brother, and later, a friend’s family. Well, last weekend, I learned she passed away. I’m not sure exactly what happened, but I am sure Britain and Dave are snuggling together again!

On Tuesday and Thursday, God helped me fit in several activities at work and home. There was nothing unusual or difficult, per se, but I just had a lot going on back-to-back. God does this for me every day, actually, but this week, I noticed it more! Thanks, Lord!

Lydia had an exciting week and it seems she grew so much! First, she got a haircut and new tennis shoes. Then, on Wednesday, she got her braces off! We thought she was just going for a checkup, so we were surprised! Lydia has been happily talking about how nice her smile looks and how smooth her teeth feel. We go for a retainer next week!

Today, February 29th is Leap Day! It’s always fun to do something special to celebrate. I have my first on-call weekend at work but didn’t have to go in today… Then Lydia and I tried out a new recipe for lemon ricotta pancakes (pictured above)! They were delicious and tasted just like spring. 🙂 Tonight, Lydia is going to a friend’s house for a birthday sleepover, and I’m going with friends to a women’s worship event at church!

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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, Miscellaneous, Perfectionism, Perseverance, Prayer

Mountain Mover

I sure am grateful for Jesus! I appreciate how His faithfulness and reliability. He always makes a way for us. He always comes through!

Thanks, Lord, for your unfailing love!

Yesterday morning, I woke up thinking about my day and all that I needed to do. I also thought about upcoming plans and events that I need to prepare for (at work, home, church, Lydia’s school and daycare, etc). Each day is a little different, of course.

No big deal, just some loose ends. All that is fairly normal, but I felt overwhelmed. So, I did the best thing I could do. I prayed! In the early morning, I try to keep it simple.

Often, this looks like, “God, I really can’t do this on my own. I have no idea how I am going to accomplish all of this. But You do. I really need Your help! Can you please…??” 

The ellipses above may be filled in with any of several phrases:

–help this person get back to me     –help that person be available

–help that patient come early     –help the timing because I don’t have much margin

–help me to remember that later     –help me finish this task

After I prayed for God’s help, I decided to take my day head-on, trusting Him to come through for me. Soon, it became fun to see how it all worked out!

I ate a good breakfast and got in some exercise before work. Woohoo! I felt good mentally and physically, and those endorphins carried through the day. Then, I heard a great song on the radio! By God’s grace, the rest of my day went smoothly, too.

I had a lighter day at work, but still had a lot going on. One patient came early, which gave me some time before my next patient. 🙂 I was also able to take another patient to help a coworker, and I caught up on other tasks (will do more today). I managed to do everything assigned to me, but God “rearranged” my schedule!

Also, I made a little progress on some plans and goals at home.

Later, I reflected on all of the above. In a brief moment of insecurity, I wondered, “What is going on? Have I lost my game?! I used to have more balance and was really good at x, y, and z.” Then, it hit me!

I realized that while most of these random issues are common, my circumstances have changed dramatically over the years.

How I dealt with things in the past versus now has changed accordingly. I am still ‘competent,’ but years ago, I had more flexibility in my schedule, more help, and more brainpower to put toward all these random issues. HA!!

Now, I am a single mom and homeowner with no family nearby. It’s safe to say I have different priorities, though ongoing stress and inadequate sleep doesn’t help. 😉

The song I heard on the radio, “Believer,” by Rhett Walker, is about how God works in us.

“I am a mountain mover, water walker
More than just an overcomer ‘Cause I’ve been set free.”

It’s a fun, catchy song, but for me, God is my power source! I can’t do anything good on my own, but He is the ultimate mountain mover! He also redirects me all throughout the day. Sometimes, He moves the mountain, and sometimes, He moves me!

I give God my many weaknesses, and He gives me His strength. Nothing stands in His way! Similarly, you don’t have fear or worry, either.

God is the Eternal Rock! He’s got us covered!

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God, thanks for all You do for me. Thanks for being so trustworthy and for empowering me to live for You. Help me listen and obey; I don’t want to do this alone. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Do you remember to ask God for help every day? Before your problems arise?! 🙂

Tasks: Put your faith in Jesus, and don’t try to solve your problems on your own! Listen to the song, “Believer,” by Rhett Walker.

 

Posted on in Being Gracious, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Parenting, Perseverance, Personality, Wisdom, Words

Love Moved First

I love how God always prompts us to move out of our comfort zone. He often guides us by placing several “markers” around us. For me, this most noticeable when sermons, songs, conversations, and circumstances all line up.

Being a mom also has a way of bringing up certain topics! It is important for me to set a good example for Lydia, so I can coach her through her own issues.

God’s timing and Lydia’s questions about friendship got me thinking!

Good relationships take time to cultivate. Friendships are an investment.

Over time, I’ve learned to take responsibility to preserve my friendships if I value them.

Then again, not every relationship needs to be salvaged. This can be especially difficult when feelings have been hurt and the other person doesn’t seem to care. Sometimes growth means growing apart instead of closer together. And that’s okay.

We live. We learn. We move on.

However, as long as it is up to me (Romans 12:18), I need to do everything God is asking me to do when things go wrong. I can forgive, even if the other person does not apologize.

Besides, forgiveness is not really about the other person. It sets me free and makes me right with God. Then, I can move forward with peace. Thank You, Jesus.

The true test of a good friend is that they point me to Jesus and bring out my best traits. They pray for me, call me out, and lift me higher. I do the same for them. 

We won’t always agree, but we will allow for each other’s differences. We will give each other the benefit of the doubt (instead of presuming the worst).

There will be both give and take in a healthy relationship. If it is a good fit, it will stand under pressure. But, I may need to prayerfully reconsider how close someone is (or should be) if it is always a one-sided relationship.

Thankfully, I can follow Jesus’ example. He did the right thing, even when it cost Him greatly. He made the first step while we were still unaware of the problem (Romans 5:8).

I can also take the first steps of obedience, even if what happened isn’t my fault or my problem. I can extend grace, even when it feels unfair. Grace, by definition, is undeserved. 

If I want to be like Jesus and live for Him, I have to be willing to go the extra mile and turn the other cheek. Ultimately, it’s not about me, but what God is doing through me.

Similarly, I don’t have to let someone’s stubbornness harden my heart, too. I don’t have to accept their behavior or abandon my convictions, but I can always be gracious.

In fact, the person may never change… but I can keep praying for them anyway.

Reaching out may mean calling or sending a card to let someone know I care. It could mean inviting them over to hang out, but that may not always be possible. In some cases, the best thing I can do is give the person space. Often, time and distance bring clarity.

Of course, each decision requires a certain measure of prayer and wisdom. Indeed, it can be challenging to be supportive yet not get sucked into someone else’s drama! A true friend will show up and be willing to have difficult conversations.

As long as I set solid boundaries, I am able to let God direct my path, knowing He will bring the right people in my life. And while it is sad when people choose to leave, I can continue being kind and trust God will be good to them as well. He loves us all so much!

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Heavenly Father, thanks for Your unconditional love. Help me love people like You do, with hope, grace, and perseverance. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Is there a relationship in your life that needs a little extra TLC? How is God leading you? Is there something specific you should do to reach out?

Tasks: Listen to the song, “Love Moved First,” by Casting Crowns.

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Journey of Grace, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Wisdom, Worship

Finding Grace #206

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 turned out differently than planned, but I really appreciated God directing my steps! Life always ends up well when we do it His way. And by that, I mean talking with God and letting Him lead us through each situation on His terms and in His time.

Tuesday was a really beautiful day, perfect for going to dinner with some coworkers! I am so thankful for these awesome ladies! They are gracious to let Lydia tag along with us. We tried out a restaurant just across the  Red River in Moorhead, MN. Lydia and I shared a half-price appetizer and split a couple of small pizzas (we took home yummy leftovers).

This week, the weather changed my plans, but again, that wasn’t all bad. There was a ‘ground blizzard’ on Wednesday and school was canceled. Kinda crazy how fast the storm came overnight! Thankfully, Lydia still had a daycare option so I could go to work. It ended up being a very busy day, and I am glad I didn’t have to miss all my patients! Our evening plans were canceled too, so Lydia and I had a fun time hanging out together!

My Thursday evening plans also changed, in part due to the cold weather. Lydia and I took advantage of the extra time to make tacos! I appreciated the slower pace for a change.

On Friday, Valentine’s Day, I received some gorgeous flowers from my sister, which reminds me Spring is around the corner. I also received some exciting news and a box of chocolates in the mail. Furthermore, I enjoyed some ‘me time’ which doesn’t happen very often. It was absolutely glorious to read a book, take a nap, watch a movie, and enjoy some special foods with Lydia after school. There are so many ways to be happy; it was good to soak up God’s unfailing, neverending love!

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

A Little Stretched

Recently, on my personal Facebook page, a memory popped up from two years ago.

Here is what it said:

Tonight, I was preparing for the week ahead, prepping meals and doing dishes, while hoping to watch the Olympics. Lydia, already relaxed and watching the Olympics, asked me for an after-dinner snack when I hadn’t even eaten my dinner yet…

I was a little short with her. Here is our conversation as I came upstairs with an armful of laundry.

L: Mom, you look a little stretched.
Me, with a sigh: What do you mean, Lydia?
L: Hold on, I’ll be right back!

L, seconds later: Here, you can use this! I like to squeeze it when I am stretched.

The emoji stress ball was a perfect reminder not to be so serious…and so sweet of Lydia to encourage and help me. The fact that she picked up on my mood without actually understanding the reasons made me laugh! I’m so thankful for her!

I thought it was funny that Lydia replaced the word stressed with stretched. Yet, it was totally applicable in that context. I also appreciated her thoughtfulness and compassion.

And yes, the laughing-to-the-point-of-tears emoji ball makes me smile even now.

But maybe today, you are feeling a little stretched. Perhaps your schedule is pushed to the limit and you can’t simply laugh it off. Remember: God’s got this.

Let God have your worries, and take on His perspective instead. His yoke is easy and His burden is light. He loves you with an everlasting love. He’s got it.

You may not know how it all works out, but God’s got you covered. Rest in His grace.

I hope this post brightens your day, and that you find something to smile or laugh about today. Take time to pray, destress, and relax. Take the scenic route when possible. 

Life is too short to always be a little stretched.

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Heavenly Father, thanks for being our Victory! When we feel stressed or stretched thin, help us turn to You. Let us rest in Your grace, knowing You’ve got us covered. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: What would it mean for you to give your worries, stress, and schedule to God?

Tasks: Life is an adventure! Cast all your cares on Jesus, for He cares for you (1 Peter 5:7). Listen to the song, “You got this” by Love and the Outcome.

 

 

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

Steady Me Now

Whenever I see a word repeatedly popping up in everyday life, I take notice.

Lately, that word is anchor.

Maybe it started when I watched a random movie that took place on a cruise ship. 🙂

Or, maybe it was because I was reviewing some old blog posts!

Here’s one. Here’s another. And another.

At any rate, I have been listening to the song, “Anchor,” by Skillet, on repeat.

I keep singing part of the chorus over and over: “You are my anchor, So steady me, steady me now.”  I have even caught myself humming it in public!

You know, it’s a little more inconspicuous that way… 😉

In Christ Jesus, we have “hope as an anchor for the soul, strong and secure” (from Hebrews. 6:19, NIV). He provides safety, security, and grounding in any storm.

Jesus also prevents us from moving off course. We are wise to cling to Him like the anchor He is. There are many types of storms and vessels and missions, but Jesus is more than enough to meet every need! Trust Him!

That begs the question: To what or whom are you anchored?

Are you anchored to Jesus, or are you stuck on other people’s expectations and opinions? What holds your attention? Do you look to the Prince of Peace or to your problems?

We all face external challenges and internal troubles. Outside forces are often beyond our control, but sometimes we try to control them. Internally, the mind can be quite subtle. Both have unique risks and dangers, and both can be difficult to navigate.

It seems there are two ways we can anchor or attach ourselves to something. Although they may appear similar at first glance, only one is stable. One means we do all the work ourselves, while the other brings rest, peace, power, and protection. 

We can clasp onto an idea or person or object with stubbornness and pride. This means I am doing life solo and in my own strength. I have all the answers, so I don’t need any outside help or input. Unfortunately, when I fasten myself, the chain quickly becomes binding and I am trapped. I am no match for life’s challenges on my own.

Or, we can cling to Jesus with steadfastness and humility. This means He holds me tight as I wait for Him to lead me. I seek His input first and refuse to move until I hear from Him. Relying on the Lord takes patience… because I can’t chart my own course successfully.

It is important to evaluate your position while life is still calm. A storm leaves no time to figure out how to use an anchor! Don’t leave yourself at risk. Come to Jesus right now!

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Dear Jesus, thanks for being my Anchor! You are strong and secure. Thanks for Your protection. Help me rest and wait for You. In Your Name, Amen

Questions: How firm is your anchor, or whatever you are depending upon? Will it hold fast in the next storm? How can you be sure?

Tasks: If you’re clinging to anything other than Jesus Christ, now is your opportunity to let go and grab onto Him like your life depends on it. (It does!) And, listen to this song!

 

 

Posted on in Being Gracious, Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Parenting, Wisdom

Finding Grace #204

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 and peace! I sensed God’s perfect timing which helped me know I am right where I need to be. Interestingly, someone asked me to get together, but we couldn’t make the timing work (for either of us). Unfortunately, the person was disappointed when I didn’t drop my other plans. However, for me, it was a good reminder to let God lead and not live to please people. If I walk with Jesus, I can’t go wrong!

This week, I enjoyed meeting with my writing group and picked up some timely ideas. I’m so thankful for the collaboration, motivation, and fellowship these ladies provide! Thank you, dear friends!

Our current weekly activities include AWANA and a ladies’ Bible study. The kids at AWANA were so sweet this week. I enjoy helping them build a godly foundation and am grateful I can influence them for Jesus. My Bible study ladies canceled this week so Lydia and I had fun doing some special activities together. I love it when God redirects me!

Lydia and I really enjoyed catching up with my sister and parents. Mom and Dad sent us a whole bucket of Cheryl’s cookies! Lydia already divided them and told me which ones I can have. They are delicious, and I am happy to share!

During winter, it is easy to just come home and relax. The temptation to hibernate is real, but unfortunately, that means we don’t see our friends or neighbors as much! This week, a friend came over to chat, and I was so glad to catch up! I also ran into another friend at work, which was a fun surprise. I love seeing God at work around me!

I love January because it gives me time to spend with Lydia and to work on projects. The rest of the year seems to fly by, once weekly activities start up again. Lydia and I grew together and each accomplished a lot for the first month of the year! I am excited to see what God has in store for us in February, too!

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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)!