Tag: Rest

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

Finding Grace #232

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 fun week full of God’s grace! On Sunday, we enjoyed seeing friends at church, and family over Zoom. Lydia also got her hair cut. It is just above her shoulders now, which makes her curls really pop! She’s so cute and confident!

On Wednesday, I celebrated my birthday! I took the day off work, got a massage, started a book, watched a movie, talked with family and friends, and enjoyed time with Lydia. We got ice cream and took a scenic walk with great conversation! It was just right. I’m grateful for a chance to reflect on all God has done for me this last year. He is so good to me!

This week had some wild weather extremes! Most of the days were very enjoyable. Mostly sunny with perfect temperatures. At work, I took some brief walks with my coworkers. Friday had crazy storms and with flooding potential most of the day. I had an errand to run and waited to go in between storms. I didn’t get too wet, thankfully!

Today, has also been fun and productive! First, I got my oil changed. Then, Lydia and I went to the bookstore for a little while. We got fancy drinks and read some books. Then, we went to Costco before returning home. She played with a neighbor friend while I made some calls, paid some bills, made some stuffed peppers, and worked on a project!

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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, Travel, Wisdom

Reflecting on God’s Goodness

Last week, Lydia and I traveled to Illinois for a fun road trip! We saw some family and a few friends. We even met my new baby nephew; he is so sweet and little!

While I don’t always enjoy sitting still for hours of driving, I do love how a road trip brings the opportunity to reflect. In my usual state of busyness, I often forget how important this is. But, when I take time away from my normal routine, I gain perspective on what is really important. I’m grateful for the reminder.

As I drove through Minnesota and Wisconsin, I thought about the current pandemic, mask requirements, and the upcoming school season. The entire situation is a little odd (and sad), but instead of fear or worry, I praised God for keeping us safe and providing so well for us during all the uncertainty. It felt good to see the big picture, and it was interesting to see how other states are dealing with it, too.

I also thought ahead for how I will spend my birthday, which happens to be today!

In Illinois, my family surprised me with a delicious chocolate cake (decorated to represent the healthy ‘plate method’ of a balanced diet). It was so funny, and I brought some of it home with me. I put it in the freezer so I can have it whenever I want!

From week to week, I probably don’t take as much time to rest as I should, so I took today off from work and planned a massage. While Lydia is at daycare, I will run a few errands and probably work on a project (deadline ahead!). I may read or take a short bike ride, too. I appreciate having a little quality time to myself, because that is rare!

Yes, I will enjoy some pampering and continue to reflect on God’s goodness. Then, we will do some other fun activities later in the day!

Today, three things come to mind as I celebrate the life God has given me and look forward to the year ahead. Joy, peace, and gratitude.

I feel joy as I think of how much God has blessed me. I am excited for what is ahead, even though there will be some difficult moments and some tough days. But, I also can enjoy myself, trusting that God will help us and take care of us. He is faithful!

I have peace because I have seen God come through for me in the past, and I see how He is working out all the details for my good and His glory. Even with challenging circumstances, He is with me and for me. He never lets me down!

I am so grateful for all God is doing in my life and don’t want to take any of it for granted. He has given me so many gifts, including Lydia, family and friends.

It is only by His grace we have come so far! Thank You, Jesus!

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Heavenly Father, thanks for all the ways You bless me and take care of me. Thanks for Your love and grace. Help me to reflect You with joy, peace, and gratitude. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: How do you see God moving in your life? Have you praised Him for His goodness today?

Tasks: Take some time to reflect on all the goodness in your life today. Give God praise!

Posted on in Journey of Grace, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Prayer, Wisdom, Worship

Build Your Life

This year, I have been listening to the One Year Chronological Bible on my phone. I highly recommend the accompanying Bible Study Guide and Daily Reflections linked above. (I’m not an affiliate, I just find these resources helpful!)

I also have the same version of this Bible in paperback, which has been restructured (not rewritten!) as if it all happened in order. It is a fun way to ‘read’ the Bible and helps bring a different perspective!

Overall, I enjoy hearing God’s love come through, but at times, it is a little heartbreaking! In the books of Isaiah and 2 Kings, God keeps calling out to His people, Israel, and they keep refusing to listen. How sad!

God kept giving His people chances to put away their idols and change their ways. But, they continually ignored Him, eventually going into captivity in a foreign land (Babylon) as punishment. God sent His judgment, but not before He promised to rescue His people and bring them back to Jerusalem.

To me, this sounds a little familiar to our present day situation… We may not be in literal captivity, but we do have several restrictions (or recommendations) in place right now. Perhaps God is using this time to reach us at a deeper level.

Are we listening? Are we turning our hearts toward Jesus or doing our own thing?

For me, it is clear we need to have God, our Rock, as our firm foundation. We cannot build our lives upon the idols of self-sufficiency and false humility. We cannot brag about how well we are doing when it’s only possible because of God’s grace. Similarly, we cannot say we love God and then show disregard for those He created.

You can see how far that’s gotten us lately!

Every day, we have a new chance to build our lives. We can be wise and build with intention, planning for the rough times ahead. Or, we can be foolish, building passively “as things come up” or just waiting for things to change. Are you building a strong foundation or shifting sand? It’s not too late.

Every day, God gives us a new opportunity to walk with Him. We cannot go wrong with Jesus Christ as our firm foundation. It’s not that it’s always rosy, but He helps us navigate the thorns and smell the flowers. 😉

When we invite Him to help us, He leads us through each difficulty and sets us up for success.

God sees every hair on our heads. How comforting it is to know He cares about each detail of our lives, no matter how big or small. He loves us so much.

If God brings us to a challenging situation, we can pray, and then trust He will cover us with His grace and mercy. We don’t have to be afraid or try to figure it all out on our own!

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God, thanks for being our anchor and our firm foundation. Thanks for holding us secure amid life’s storms and trials. Please strengthen us for this next season and help us trust You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: How do you know your foundation is secure? Should you wait for it to be shaken and crack or do you do routine maintenance?

Tasks: Listen to this song, “Build My Life,” by Pat Barrett.

Don’t wait until it’s too late to know where you stand with Jesus Christ. If you want to be with Him for eternity and need His help to live life fully now, pray this prayer:

Dear Lord, I admit that I am a sinner and have done many things that don’t please you. I have lived my life for myself only. I am sorry, and I repent. I ask you to forgive me.

Jesus, I believe you died on the cross for me, to save me. You did what I could not do for myself. I come to you now and ask you to take control of my life; I give it to you. From this day forward, help me to live every day for you and in a way that pleases you.

I love you, Lord, and I thank you that I will spend all eternity with you. Amen.

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Miscellaneous, Travel, Wisdom

Finding Grace #230

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 another full and busy week, but it went fast! Early in the week, I went in for some extra hours at work. I was thankful for the opportunity and was happy to help!

The weather was great this week. It was perfect for an adventure with Lydia! We went on a road trip to see family. We stayed at a hotel along the way, and ended up swimming, watching some good shows, etc. She is a great road trip buddy!

I’m happy to report we finally got to meet my new little nephew! He is so cute, and Lydia was very excited to see him. It was also great to see other family, as well.

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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, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Prayer, Wisdom, Worship

Grace Without Bounds

Over the last few months, my family has been enjoying weekly Zoom chats. Thanks to COVID, we’ve grown even closer despite now living in three different time zones!

We sometimes laugh at how odd it is to have my brother and sister-in-law getting ready for dinner and my parents getting ready for bed. It can be hot in Arizona, mild in North Dakota, and raining in Florida (or any other crazy combination). We can all have completely different experiences that day, yet chat online at the same time!

It’s even more mind-boggling that God sees all of us simultaneously. He is not bound by our time zones, location, or weather. He sees each of us and all of us together.

In His perfect time, God tends to each of our needs. He is never late!

The sun never sets on His lovingkindness.

Of course, none of us knows what this next season will bring, but we can rest assured that God does. Trust Him! He is faithful and will never let you down!

God never gets tired and never slumbers (Psalm 121:4). He watches over us each moment with Fatherly love. He protects us and provides for us.

His grace covers everything we do.

God comforts us and gives us peace.

He prepares the path before us and empowers us to move ahead.

Maybe you are pressed for time or have to make big decisions today. You may feel stretched thin, but remember, God does not have the same restrictions or limits. He sees you and knows exactly what you need.

Call out to Jesus when you need help. His grace knows no bounds.

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God, thanks for Your perfect love and peace. Thanks for taking care of us and giving us abundant grace. Please direct us and help us walk the path before us. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: God is omnipresent, omniscient, and omnipotent. Which of these attributes of His is most awe inspiring to you? How can you praise Him today?

Tasks: Thank God for the ways He blesses you today. Let Him direct your path with His perfect timing. Be on the lookout for His grace!

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

Finding Grace #229

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 heavy and emotional week. A friend’s brother back home died unexpectedly, and many hearts were broken. It is a sad and difficult situation, and I hope the community can pull together and support my friend’s family. It will be a long road to healing.

I made some good progress on several projects this week, but I also realized how much more I have to do on all of them! It’s all good, though. I am grateful to have so many ‘outlets’ that bring joy. Lydia telling me she is proud of me is icing on the cake!

Yesterday, I had three enriching conversations with people. I felt excited and fulfilled to talk with people who ‘get’ me. Altogether, I spent nearly five hours on the phone! On two calls, I walked around the house and got well over 10,000 steps!

Today, I worked on my projects more, mowed, and spent quality time with Lydia. The next two weeks are fairly full, so I am trying to get things done ahead of time. I am trying to make plans, while also trying 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 Being Gracious, Fear/Don't Fake Brave, Journey of Grace, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Parenting, Perseverance, Prayer, Wisdom

A Short List

Well, this has been a full week so far. On Monday, I received some awful news that a friend’s brother died in his sleep. A husband and father of two. A beloved son, brother, and friend to many. It was completely unexpected, and it certainly rocked the small community where I grew up. This hit home for many reasons, besides the fact that he was about Dave’s age.

Sadly, this is not the first young man I grew up with, who has suddenly passed away in my peer group or hometown. My dear friend and classmate, Seth, died when we were in high school. In college, my cousin, Nick, died, as well as another friend, Wes. More recently, these premature deaths included another classmate, Clint, and another friend, Ryan, among others. And now, Nathan. All different circumstances, but tragic nonetheless.

I explained a little of my heartache to Lydia, but there is so much she does not yet understand. Even though Dave died when she was little, she doesn’t remember him. She doesn’t feel the anguish I have felt over the years, especially as death steals away those we know and love. Of course, she feels a different pain than I do.

Still, this week has had many silver linings. Celebrating life with Lydia on a fancy dress-up day at daycare. My brother’s birthday. Progress on a couple projects. Cheering a friend on a difficult path. Talking with my family and remembering the brevity of life.

If you are still alive, God has given you much grace and much mercy. I hope you will acknowledge His deep love for you today. Reach out to Him; He is right there with you.

Through several texts, my family had a side conversation about grace and forgiveness, and I was reminded to keep ‘a short list’ with others. We never know when our time is up.

When I think about my interactions with others, I think about how I want to be remembered. What will people say about me when I die? Will it be positive or mixed? Did I focus on what really matters? That is, loving God and loving people.

Furthermore, if my actions today set the stage for how I will be remembered, what should I be doing differently? I want to live my life fully with no regrets, doing all God has for me to do before He calls me HOME. Hopefully, many decades from now!

My ‘short list’ includes extending grace and forgiveness to others; telling my family and close friends how much I love them; encouraging people; staying present with Jesus; and telling others by telling others how He changed my life. Tomorrow is never guaranteed, so do the most important things today!

Indeed, life is so short, and in our current circumstances every situation seems full of drama and uncertainty. This year has been loaded, for sure. It can be scary at times, but, we do not have to fear death or anything else!

We will never have all the answers for why bad things happen. There are so many variables, and the rain falls on us all. The best thing you can do is to let Jesus be your PEACE. He’s got this.

When I meet Jesus face to face, I will give an account about how I lived my life. None of my good works will make a difference for whether or not I get into Heaven. The only thing that matters is if I accepted Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior on Earth.

The good things I do will be rewarded, yes, but only if I know Jesus first! We can never be good enough on our own. So, it boils down to this: Knowing Jesus as Lord and Savior.

I am thankful that everything that really matters is secure in Jesus. He comforts us in the midst of tragedies and redeems our pain. Death does not get the final word!

God is Our Rock and Our Refuge. Everything we need is in Him!

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God, thank You for the gift of Life. Please comfort those who are facing grief and loss today. Continue to walk with them and draw them near to You. Pour out Your love on them, Jesus. In Your Name, Amen

Questions: What is on your ‘short list’ in life? How do you want people to remember you? What are you doing differently as a result? (if anything)

Tasks: Call or send a card (or if appropriate, show up!) to comfort those who are struggling right now. This could include grief, loss, physical health, mental health, or other COVID related issues. Be the hands and feet of Jesus!

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

Finding Grace #228

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 fun and full! Work went well and I enjoyed seeing more Veterans face to face. Lydia practiced cooking at her daycare, and she even came home and made dinner for me one night! She made ‘lasagna cups’ using wonton wrappers in a muffin tin!

On Wednesday, I finished my final exam for my online cooking class! It was a fun class and I enjoyed brushing up my skills on plant-based dishes. I am sure we will continue making them as time goes on. Even just adding more vegetables every day can go a long way to bringing health!

Yesterday, I felt worn down and claimed a rest day. I did some chores and activities, but mostly relaxed. Lydia and I played some games and I worked on a few small projects. We listened to music, prepared some food, called a friend, and watched a movie. It was just what I needed!

Today, another friend called and we had a great conversation, mostly about listening to God and watching our words in this trying time. I encouraged her that God has us covered and we praised Him together! Then, I did some more chores, and later, mowed my lawn while Lydia played with the neighbors. I went over to say hello after I was done. Tonight, we are taking it easy and making some recipes together!

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

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

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

Finding Grace #227

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 flew by! Lydia and I participated in our usual activities, such as work and daycare. Behind the scenes, though, we kept busy at home on various projects.

I have some upcoming deadlines for my online plant-based cooking class, so I had several recipes and lessons to finish. I ran to three different stores for various ingredients; the recipes were specific. Then, I spent many evenings watching movies or listening to podcasts while chopping up vegetables and washing dishes! I also had to document each recipe process with pictures and a writeup. It is worth it though!

On Friday morning, I took Lydia with me to get my driver’s license renewed and Real ID. I had made my appointment in advance, but I wasn’t sure how they would handle bringing a child (even though Lydia is well-behaved). Sure enough, they said only I could go in per pandemic requirements. But to my surprise, the lady had a creative solution! She let me fill out the paperwork outside while I stood with Lydia. When it was time to go inside to take my new picture and check my eyes, they let me use the station next to the window so I could see Lydia and one of the workers with her. God’s grace was apparent in the way the workers cheerfully helped everyone else, too, while they are trying to get everyone caught up from the last three months! Thank you!

Yesterday afternoon, Lydia was invited to swim with a friend and then sleep overnight at her house. I decided not to join them for swimming, choosing instead to focus on my cooking class assignments. I stayed up really late so I could finish a couple of the recipes and clean up. I was thankful for the space and peace to get my work done. It really helped, and I made significant progress!

With Lydia still at her friend’s this morning, I squeezed in a ten-plus mile bike ride along the river. It has been on my bucket list for awhile, but I decided to take advantage of the timing today. It was the first time I’d gone on an early morning ride since last summer when Lydia had a sleepover with the same family. And, it was my first real downtime since February (apart from Lydia with no parenting responsibilities). Self-care is so important, and I felt and extra dose of God’s grace. Thanks again to our friends for the break!

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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, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Wisdom

Beyond the Spectrum

Recently, I have come across the words ‘spectrum of light’ in two different settings. When repetition happens, I take note. One instance was the Netflix show, “Brainchild.” The episode was discussing electromagnetic energy, gravity, and other forces. Lydia and I like science shows, and it put some things into perspective for me.

Electromagnetic radiation comes in frequencies or wavelengths. Visible light, or ROYGBIV, is only one part of that spectrum. Light is then absorbed by various objects and we see whatever color bounces off. Other frequencies include various radio waves and microwaves. But they all have to do with energy on the same spectrum.

Humans can only see the rainbow colors, but there are ultraviolet and infrared light waves that are invisible to us. These are just beyond the violet/purple and red wavelengths. Ultraviolet light waves are faster because they are short and close together, while infrared light waves are slow and have less energy.

Ultraviolet rays can be harmful. They can cause sunburns, for example, or damage our eyes. But they can also bring health benefits like increasing Vitamin D production.

Infrared rays are often used in night vision for surveillance or tracking wildlife (think nature shows on PBS or Nat Geo). They are also used in weather satellites. Pretty cool!

As I was watching the show with Lydia, I thought about how God designed our eyes.

Interestingly, He gave many animals greater field of vision and the ability to see more colors. Cats and dogs only see certain muted colors, but some birds and spiders can see UV rays. A chameleon can see 360 degrees (yes, a full circle!) as its eyes are near the top of its head. Its eyes can also operate independently of each other!!

This made me wonder… Why did God ‘limit’ our eyesight compared to the animals? Perhaps it was so we could have less distractions… God knows we often need help keeping our eyes focused on Him.

Or maybe it was so we wouldn’t look funny. I’m glad we don’t have bug eyes! 😉

Either way, the rainbow first appears in the Bible as a symbol of God’s faithfulness. For me, I see it as both a reminder of God’s firm promise and a reminder to trust Him.

We can’t see the future or fathom all that is going on around us. We don’t know what tomorrow holds and can’t see how things work out. We can’t fully understand or control each of those circumstances, either!

Sometimes, our limited vision poses challenges for us. We don’t always have the correct perspective. But it can also be a major blessing in that we don’t bear so much responsibility. We don’t hold the weight of the world on our shoulders.

At the same time, there are invisible spiritual forces of good and evil at war. Like many Bible characters, we would probably freak out if we saw these supernatural beings in real life (think four-faced cherubim or the beast from Revelation!).

Someday, in Heaven, we will see the full spectrum of color. We will see everything as it should be. In the meantime, we can still have peace. We can trust Jesus and thank Him for His protection. He’s got this. 

He is light, and He reigns over the darkness, too.

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God, thank you for the beautiful world you have created! Thanks for letting us enjoy all the colors of the rainbow. Thanks for protecting us and providing good things for us. Help us trust You with all we cannot see. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Have you ever used night vision? Is it easy or difficult for you to trust God when you can’t see how it all works out? (That’s called faith.) 🙂

Task: Read up about these six animals with incredible vision. God is soo cool!