Tag: trusting God

Posted on in Journey of Grace, Miscellaneous, Wisdom, Words

Sharing Our Stories

Thanks so much for your prayers and encouragement around the three year anniversary of Dave’s death! My mom and aunt visited for a few days to celebrate Dave and comfort me.

I kept their visit as a surprise from Lydia, but the joke was on me. My sister also came…to surprise ME! We had a wonderful visit: shopping, eating yummy food, and sharing stories.

I love how each of our lives interconnect. I’m thankful we encourage and support each other through the ups and downs of Life. I also love a good cup of coffee. 🙂

I don’t need anything fancy! I’ll drink coffee at home with milk, most days. Even better, I enjoy coffee with a friend, sharing stories and experiences, learning from each other.

coffee

What’s more, I love how each of us can impact those around us with the stories of our personal lives. Never underestimate the power or significance of your story.

Whether you enjoy coffee or not, don’t be afraid to share your story with those around you. Even total strangers can benefit!

The night before my visitors arrived, my mom had an interesting conversation with the cashier at a certain store. She was picking up some snacks and a little trinket for Lydia.

“Oh you must be going on a trip!” said the cashier, an older woman.

My mom mentioned the reason for her trip, and told the cashier a little of my story. The lady grew quiet, and said, “My daughter is a younger widow, too. She doesn’t have small children now, but she is having a difficult time.” (Her husband died in a sudden accident.)

My mom is compassionate and understanding in these types of moments. Through the course of their conversation, Mom shared about my blog, and that God has taken such good care of us. We are not angry with God, and keep moving forward.

This prompted the cashier to say, “I don’t really know how to get ahold of God.” So, Mom explained the basic gospel message to her. They chatted a little more. Then, the lady wrote a few things down, and squeezed my mom’s hand as she left.

2 Corinthians 1_3-4

Isn’t God good?! He meets us right where we are, and longs to comfort us. After all, our personal life stories are just a small part of the greater one He is writing.

We overcome by the blood of the Lamb (Jesus!) and the word of our testimony (see Revelation 12:11). As we share our stories, we are healed. But it doesn’t stop there. It is not all about us. Our redemptive stories also bring God glory and bless others. Knowing this makes my pain more bearable!

We have the ability to affirm and speak God’s truth to one another! Once we have worked through our own mess, we become His messengers to others. When infused with His grace and wisdom, our words bring His power to set people free.

Please note: I am not suggesting to “spill your guts” or share other people’s secrets (gossip). If you need help processing your pain, please consider professional input.

latte with heart

“You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives” (Genesis 50:20).

Did you catch that? What was meant for evil—to hurt or stop us—God is working for good. Our pain does not go wasted. God collects each and every tear we cry. If we let Him, God will redeem our experiences and help someone else grow closer to Him, too.

Yes, grief and other emotions are normal. But we cannot stay there. Instead of dwelling on the loss, the anger, the negativity… Take it to Jesus. His love never fails. Let Him walk you through to Victory, and then share what He has done in your life with others.

At the end of you life, the only thing that will matter is your relationship with Jesus Christ, followed by how you treated other people. We can’t take our stuff with us!

Ultimately, the coffee won’t matter, but our stories will.

So speak up. Tell your story. See God heal your heart and touch the lives of others. Our stories (and lessons learned) can change lives—even to the point of eternity.

Isn’t that worth it?

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God of all comfort, thank You for healing our hearts. Give us courage to share the deep parts of our lives with others. Give us wisdom and grace as we encourage and learn from each other. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Questions: If you like coffee, how do you like it best? What part of your personal story (testimony) could be shared to encourage or comfort someone else?

 

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Miscellaneous

Finding Grace #10

I love the concept of giving God a shout out for what He has done.

We don’t do that nearly enough!

You may have seen the acronym GRACE as “God’s Riches At Christ’s Expense.” Grace is also God’s unmerited favor, or God doing for us what we cannot. I find grace overflowing in God’s love, joy, peace, blessings, mercy, power, provision, protection, and wisdom. Thank You, Jesus!

cherry-blossom

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

  • This week was all about relationships. I had multiple meaningful conversations each day of the week. Deep conversations are my most favorite way to connect with people, so I was thrilled! I talked with neighbors, fellow writers, church friends, moms, widows, and old college friends, among others. We made changes on projects, made new plans, discussed difficult phases of life, and just caught up on other things. With the plethora of people I talked with, I felt the Lord was reminding me that I am not alone. And, I impact other people’s lives, too. We’re all in this together!
  •  I have been praying about and reflecting on the third year mark of my late husband’s death, as mentioned in my last two Wednesday posts (here and here). I’ve noticed each time I read my Bible, I come across at least one scripture verse that says God is our refuge, shelter, strength, and shield. Isn’t that cool?! Actually, I just realized this pattern a day or so ago, but it has been going on for the last few weeks.
  • It seems as that anniversary of Dave’s death grows closer, the magnitude of God’s grace and love has increased. It’s as if He is pulling out all the stops to encourage me! Not only has the Lord surrounded me with an increase of amazing people all around, but He also has reminded me that He is My Refuge, My Protector, and My Defense.

“But I will sing of your strength,
    in the morning I will sing of your love;
for you are my fortress,
    my refuge in times of trouble.

You are my strength, I sing praise to you;
    you, God, are my fortress,
    my God on whom I can rely.”

Psalm 59:16-17

  •  I love all the flowering trees in Spring. I wish they could last all year, they’re so pretty! To think that each type of blossom or tree reflects only a small part of who God is (not to mention the diversity in everyone and everything else)… What beauty and creativity! God you are so good to us!

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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)!

Where did YOU see or experience God’s grace this week?

Posted on in Journey of Grace, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Worship

It Is Well

In a few days, it will be three years since my late husband died of colon cancer. As such, I’ve been reflecting on our journey these last few years. Lydia and I think and talk about Dave often. And, I consider all the ways God helped us and came through for us.

I’ve also been thinking about how we honored Dave’s life at his funeral. Dave had no preferences, leaving the details up to me. My mom helped me choose the flowers, and I asked my dad to speak during the service. I picked out the songs.

Dave obit pic

I chose “Give Me Jesus,” because at the end of his life, Dave was still sure of his faith. Shortly before he died, when asked if there was anything he needed, Dave’s response was: “I just want Jesus.”

The other two songs were classic hymns: “Victory in Jesus” and a personal favorite, “It Is Well with My Soul.” They felt like anthems proclaiming God’s goodness and faithfulness.

Somehow, in the midst of my grief, I looked past my pain to believe God still had a good plan for me and Lydia…though I could not see or understand what that was.

These songs inspire me to praise and trust God…when things go well and when they don’t. First day. Last day. Best day. Worst day. He is constant. Just…give…me…Jesus.

Psalm 28_7

Lately, I’ve been singing a newer version of “It Is Well,” a powerful song from Bethel Music. Lydia was too little three years ago to know we sang the original (classic) version at her Daddy’s funeral. Nonetheless, it has been moving to hear her belt out some of the lyrics!

I am simply amazed at how far God has brought us. He is still with us, showing us the path ahead. He has never left me alone to fend for myself. God has held me close, a strong and steady anchor in the storms of life. I’m so thankful for His help!

That first year without Dave was a struggle, though each year has had its own challenges. At one point, I wrote down a set of personal statements, which felt like drawing a line in the sand.

I posted little notes all over the house, and declared them out loud, often several times a day. They helped me refocus on the Lord in my deepest grief. I still review them often!

It is well

Today, I am sharing them with you. I hope they help you, too, in your tough moments. God’s promises fill us with hope. Therefore, I linked a few Bible verses after each sentence if you would like to read and ponder them.

I trust You, Jesus.

Psalm 28:7, Proverbs 3:5, Isaiah 26:4, Nahum 1:7

Lord, I need You.

Psalm 9:18, Psalm 40:17, Psalm 72:12

I will wait for You.

Psalm 27:14, Psalm 33:20, Micah 7:7

You’ve never failed before!

Exodus 14:14, Joshua 21:45, Luke 1:37

I receive Your peace and provision.

Numbers 6:24-26, Job 10:12, Psalm 29:11, Isaiah 26:3

stormy sea

Do you feel defeated today? Perhaps life looks anything but well. I’ve been there. Yet, as my dad so poignantly said at his beloved son-in-law’s funeral:

“You don’t have to have all the answers to walk by faith.”

You may be experiencing peace and quiet today, or tossing to and fro. Either way, take it to Jesus. Cling to Him in both the calm and the chaos. He is the King!

As you trust in God’s love for you, stand firm on His promises. He will bring You through with Victory. And, I pray that you, too, will soon be able to say: “It is well with me.”

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God, thank You for your loyal and unwavering love. You are so good. As we speak Your truth over our circumstances, may we rest in Your grace and peace. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: When facing life’s uncertainties, do you turn to God first…or last? How can I pray for you today?

Posted on in Finding Grace Weekly Recap, Miscellaneous

Finding Grace #9

I love the concept of giving God a shout out for what He has done.

We don’t do that nearly enough!

You may have seen the acronym GRACE as “God’s Riches At Christ’s Expense.” Grace is also God’s unmerited favor, or God doing for us what we cannot. I find grace overflowing in God’s love, joy, peace, blessings, mercy, power, provision, protection, and wisdom. Thank You, Jesus!

Mother's Day 2016

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

  • This week oozed with grace. And I certainly felt the need. At every turn, I felt God calling me to let Him handle my concerns. Previously, I would have felt overwhelmed by all the items on my “should-do” list. This week, I purposefully delayed some of those tasks, which included postponing a writing deadline by two days.
  • I was consistently pulled in many directions this week. You too?! But, I laid aside my work to play My Little Ponies and Barbies so as not to miss important moments with Lydia. Yes, she can entertain herself much of the time, but I know these opportunities to connect with her won’t always be there. Someday I will wonder where the time went. Lord, help me stay present!
  • The weather actually got up in the upper 80s/low 90s a couple days this week!! Hot and windy! Lydia and I enjoyed picking up some mulch and other items at a local store. I also bought my first LED lights for inside, so hopefully, I won’t have to constantly change light bulbs. However, I recently changed several around the house, so it might be awhile before I get to use the new LED ones! At any rate, I am thankful for a wonderful house and simple fixes to keep it up and running.
  • Just in time for Mother’s Day, I received a beautiful bouquet of flowers from my parents on Lydia’s behalf. They came on a day I was frustrated with that pesky “should-do” list. Perfect timing. Lydia surprisingly denied having anything to do with the flowers. Still, I snapped a cute photo (above) of her holding them! 😉
  • In addition to the lovely flowers, I received a handful of thoughtful and heartwarming cards in the mail from close friends and family, acknowledging me as a single mom. Kindness counts. Lydia obviously isn’t able to do much in the ways of gifts, nor do I expect them. But, I love words of affirmation. Thank you to all who sent me encouraging notes!
  • And thanks for reading my Wednesday post, Because He Is Good. I appreciated all your comments and shares—I am eternally grateful that our gracious God redeems our pain and makes beauty from our mess. Even when our plans go awry, He makes all things work out for our good and His glory (see Romans 8:28).

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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)!

Where did YOU see or experience God’s grace this week?

Posted on in Fear/Don't Fake Brave, Journey of Grace, Life is Short, Miscellaneous

Because He Is Good

With the flip of the calendar, here we are in May! I love spring in general, but it is a little bittersweet as we near the third year mark of my late husband’s death. Over the last couple weeks, I have been praying about this upcoming anniversary.

Once again, the Lord has come through for me in ways only He can. I had coffee with a friend who reaffirmed me on a day I was feeling down. I also ran into several friends at church, and each time, God used them to lift me up with encouragement. In all these instances, I didn’t mention I was sad. But it was reassuring to see how God met my need. He is so good to me!

1361914238347

Dave was thirty-four when he died, which is far too young. He was diagnosed after an emergency surgery in May 2012. He died 364 days later. It was a wild and chaotic year, but God was ever-faithful.

This spring, I am a little sad, yes.

But mostly, I am still so proud of Dave after all these years. I admire how he handled his cancer with grace and courage. I’m grateful he did not give up.

Some people may think that God let me down because Dave died. Yet, I do not feel that way. In fact, I saw God do so much more than we could ever dream. He answered big, audacious prayers and small, silent ones. It was an awful situation, no doubt. But, God was so kind and generous.

Already Stage IV, Dave’s prognosis wasn’t great at the start, but God gave us those 364 days anyway. Some people get longer, but we relished every moment we had together. I’m thankful Dave didn’t have to suffer any longer than that because it got to be pretty intense those final weeks…

Psalm 46_1

What’s more, I’m so grateful for all God taught us that year. Dave had a servant’s heart like no other, but realized he couldn’t out-give God. He learned to rest in Jesus’ sacrifice because we can’t earn God’s grace.

For me, perhaps the lessons felt much more dramatic. Emotional roller coaster is an understatement. Our cancer journey brought out some of my worst traits. And trust me, I could be a bear at times! But, God’s grace and mercy were more than enough even then.

God provided wonderful friends who helped us, often with little advanced notice. He provided extra comfort for the worst days and gave us many joys along the way. As Dave himself said, it was a “phenomenal year.”

God used these extreme circumstances to prove that He is bigger than my fears. Every. Single. One. That alone was one of the biggest breakthroughs in my life.

He set me free indeed! What grace!

Can you believe these last three years have been some of the most fruitful years of my life? It’s not been easy, though God is redeeming my pain. He has rebuilt my life from the ashes. And because He is good, I am still standing!1 Corinthians 15_57I don’t know what you are dealing with today. Maybe everything is peachy keen. But, likely it’s not. If you are struggling with something, take it to Jesus. Let Him be your refuge and strength, your righteousness and your defense—He understands exactly what you need.

You simply cannot figure out every detail and outcome of your life. Believe me, I know! But if you place your trust in Jesus alone, He will lead you through it all. Let Him be your peace. He will bring you to Victory!

God loves you and is for you! Yes, life is hard. It doesn’t always turn out like we want. But God can handle everything that concerns you. And ultimately, if your hope is in Him, you will not be disappointed!

I know that full well.

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God, great is Your faithfulness! Thank You for being a trustworthy refuge. When we are afraid, may we place our hope in You. We overcome and have Victory, in Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: How has God come through for you lately? How can I pray for you?

Posted on in Miscellaneous, Wisdom

The Problem With Too Much Stuff

I’ve been spring cleaning ever since having my water heater replaced earlier this month! Long overdue, I’m donating, selling, returning, replacing, upgrading, and throwing away various items around the house. Old books, dirty rugs, faded towels, clothes, toys, etc.

Over the weekend, I bought two new dresses (same style, different colors!). I’m excited to wear them and it was fun to buy something just for myself. I don’t do that often.

Back at home, however, I had a problem. My closet was already stuffed!

clothes in closet

I saw two dresses I never wear, including one I bought at a resale shop…because it was a good deal. 🙂 Knowing I’d never wear them, I called a local consignment shop.

As I made room in my closet, I grabbed two more dresses I received in a friendly swap. I soon discovered other items, too.

Uncomfortable. Too long. Too short. Wrong shape. Wrong color.

Quickly, I pulled clothes from my closet, tossing them on the bed. Two shirts still had tags. A few items were resale pieces I didn’t wear after all. Some never fit well in the first place.

I had a huge pile after gathering dresses, skirts, and shirts. I made a separate pile for later of winter sweaters and jeans. I also tossed in a pair of never-worn shoes and a plethora of colorful scarves, hats, and purses.

It feels good to see space between items now!

For the record, I still have plenty of clothes! But now, I have better idea of what is in my closet, and I’ll donate what doesn’t sell. I hate wasting money on stuff that goes unused.

stack of clothes

In contrast…

About a month ago, I bought Lydia new gym shoes for a ‘sports sampler’ class through our park district. She outgrew last year’s sneakers, and clearly, flip flops and princess heels would not work!

In the class, Lydia has learned about soccer, basketball, baseball, and bowling, among others. I didn’t tell her about it before we went to the shoe store, though. So, she didn’t request or realize she needed new shoes.

But I did.

I wanted Lydia to be prepared and gladly paid for what she needed. She was thrilled when we found a light-up pair of sneakers. They were both functional (my goal) and flashy (her goal)! I enjoyed seeing Lydia’s excitement… “Thanks, Mom! You’re the best!”

Thus, Lydia got new shoes, while I removed old items that should’ve been gone years ago!

sneakers

Perhaps we all have too much stuff. Sure. However, the real problem comes when we forget Our Provider by always trying to provide for ourselves.

It’s the subtle difference between buying something I really want…and buying it with gratitude, acknowledging God’s gracious provision. Sometimes, this means just window shopping. Occasionally, it’s purchasing two dresses that make me feel beautiful.

Obviously, we don’t need more stuff! God does call us to be faithful stewards of what He has already entrusted to us. Yet, He also enjoys lavishing His grace and love upon us.

If I view a sale as my only chance to get something good, that’s the wrong motive. When I have the right perspective (and budget), I can freely buy something. Often, I can walk away from a sale altogether, knowing my money is better spent elsewhere.

To be fair, I know some very generous bargain hunters. These ladies find deals, give wonderful gifts, and unselfishly donate to others. Most of them have an entire closet dedicated to gift-giving. They are always prepared, and they’ve taught me so much!

Matthew 6_30-33

In these verses, I’m reminded God knows all of our needs before we do. He takes pleasure in giving because He loves us (not because of anything we do). That’s grace!

A good, good Father, God often provides for us before we realize the need. He wants us to ask, yes, but He is generous even when we don’t. He knows the Plan (His Plan); He prepares us for what is ahead; and blesses us to be a blessing to others.

But we have to let Him.

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Heavenly Father, You are our extravagant Provider! Thanks for giving us all we need. Help us be content…not preoccupied with getting for ourselves, but receiving what we need with open hearts. Help us spend our money wisely and cheerfully give to others. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Questions: Have you ever sold anything on consignment? Has this post made you rethink any purchases? Godliness with contentment is great gain!

Posted on in Miscellaneous

Water Heater Heroes

Last Saturday, I was exercising in my basement when I heard: “Um, Mom, come in here! Someone peed on the floor!”

 “What?! Lydia!” I grilled her thoroughly about all the possibilities. “I didn’t do it, Mom.”

(Hmmm, who did she think peed on the floor?!)

towels

Well, the floor was definitely wet. I grabbed a towel and mopped up the hand-sized spot. Then, I started investigating and found the surrounding area was damp too. Hastily, I called my neighbor who was the plumber when my house was originally built.

Now, that’s God’s grace!

My neighbor came right away. He discovered the water heater needed replaced. Though, he was supposed to leave town within the hour. He couldn’t alter his plans…nor did I expect him to.

Yet, he stayed to help! The wet area was relatively small, and we hoped to salvage the carpet once it dried. We peeled back the carpet along an entire wall to expose the wet padding underneath (which I tossed). To do this, we had to unload and move two bookcases. Then, I borrowed his industrial-sized fan to dry the wet area.

fan under stairs water heater 1

I hadn’t showered yet on Saturday when this all happened! I thought about bathing at a friend’s house or staying at a hotel. But, all things considered, heating water on the stove seemed like a perfect solution. We still had cold water, electricity, comfortable beds, plenty of food, clean dishes and clothes… I was set for days without my hot water heater! And, I know many people around the world do not have easy access to clean water, let alone the luxury of hot water.

While it was a little inconvenient, it was not unbearable. You see, we do not have to be afraid of bad news or problems. Instead, let’s have confidence in the Lord, and watch Him take care of us! (See Psalm 112:7)

On Monday morning, my water heater was replaced with a new, more energy-efficient one. Praise God, the warranty was still valid for three months! My carpet was also restretched to its original form (with a new pad underneath). I enjoyed talking to the kind, older gentleman who helped me. He laid the carpet several years ago before we moved in, and grew teary-eyed as I told him some of my story.

pot of water

I needed God’s grace and help because I didn’t know how to fix these problems on my own. He showed me favor in the following ways:

  • We were home when the leak happened and we avoided water all over my basement. This is especially significant given our recent travels. It could have been disastrous even if we were just running errands in town.
  • Lydia noticed the wet floor and told me right away. Later, I apologized for being upset and thanked her for speaking up. I don’t think the floor had been wet for long!
  • My neighbor was home; I caught him just before he was supposed to leave town.
  • He was willing to help and promptly came over. Thank You, God, for good neighbors!
  • We found the problem quickly and my neighbor knew what to do about it.
  • I had washed dishes and laundry that morning, so had plenty of fresh items to use.
  • The perfectly-timed warranty saved me some money. The new water heater also has a good warranty (let’s hope I don’t need it!).
  • My neighbor recommended the man who fixed my carpet. It was good I called when I did, because he is usually booked several weeks out. He was able to squeeze me in that day, after finishing another job earlier than planned. (Praise God!) I paid a very fair price and was saved the stress of having to call other people. He even vacuumed the area and helped me move the heavy bookcases back along the wall!
  • Our city is switching to a new water source in June, so now I’ll have a new, upgraded water heater with better water.
  • Moving the bookcases revealed several books I no longer need. I donated the books and a few other household items, and now I have some extra space. 🙂

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Heavenly Father, thanks for covering this situation with Your undeniable grace. Thank You for giving me favor and restoring my home. Please bless these men who helped me. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: What’s the worse home disaster you have had? Can you see how God helped you through it?

Posted on in Miscellaneous, Procrastination, Travel, Worship

The 12-Hour Turnaround

It is amazing what rejuvenation can come from a get-away. Lydia and I spent almost a week in Illinois, while we visited family and a few friends. It was just the ‘reset’ I needed.

Usually, we drive there and back in two days, stopping overnight each time. This adds a couple extra days to our trip—which is fun, but not always feasible. So, this time, we drove for twelve hours all in one day to Illinois and then the same road trip back to Fargo.

Now we have taken this route numerous times in nearly six years. And we have done the long all-day trek several times too. But this time was different.

sunrise from car

On this road trip, I needed a major turnaround. Yes, an attitude readjustment!

It could’ve been related to not sleeping well the night before. Perhaps it was the sense of leaving family and comfort behind. Maybe there were other factors too—like postponing breakfast—but I was in a funky mood at the beginning of the trip!

It was still dark as we started out. After a little while, Lydia fell back asleep. As I listened to her soft snoring, I started to reflect upon all we were driving back toward (in Fargo). There’s nothing like a little distance to give you some perspective!

Before, on the way to Illinois, we were driving toward family. But, as we drove back to Fargo, there was a void. I also realized as the third-year mark of Dave’s death approaches, we have been making these trips without him longer than with him.

I continued thinking about lessons learned, how many things have changed. Lydia has grown so much! Also, at least eight families—much of our support system—have moved away for various reasons. Though, God has been faithful to provide new friends and a wonderful drop-in daycare!

Other aspects of our lives are fairly steady. I’ve taken huge leaps forward, yet I feel there is still so much to do. Sometimes it is overwhelming. Though we love calling Fargo home—and have no plans to move—it has not been without challenges.

As we made our way North, I turned on the radio. I have a SiriusXM subscription which is awesome for traveling. I don’t use it often in Fargo, but on Monday, I was thankful for the encouraging words on The Message (Channel 63).

With God-focused songs, like Trust in You by Lauren Daigle, I knew I needed to give all my fears and frustrations to God. When I fear, I forget God’s faithfulness. But, the truth is, the Lord has been so, so good to me. He is kind, generous, and trustworthy. I don’t have to worry, because the He is in charge of all the details.

two arrows

As the hours rolled by, Lydia and I sang and talked. As I feasted on God’s grace and truth, a weight lifted. The closer we got to Fargo, the more light-hearted I became. Soon I was confident, hopeful, and trusting God again. What a relief knowing I don’t walk this path alone!

God continually gives me opportunities to trust Him at a deeper level. Oddly enough, I found new motivation to make some changes I previously resisted. My resistance is not on purpose, but I can be stubborn!

Being stuck in my car, I was open-minded to make changes regarding my daily routine. It’s funny how sitting in the car all day makes me want to switch up my exercise plan! 😉 Now, I have a renewed vision for Fargo and am excited to see all the Lord has in store!

“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up” (Galatians 6:9).

Following God is not always comfortable or easy. But, it is so worth it. God is for me not against me. He gently redirects me when I get off track. I can trust Him because He loves me so much!

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Father God, thanks for Your unrelenting grace and love. Thanks for never giving up on me. Lord, I need You—I cannot make it on my own. Help me trust You more and more. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Questions: What are your favorite music tunes for the car? Has God ever changed your heart during a road trip?

Posted on in Being Gracious, Miscellaneous, Perfectionism, Personality, Wisdom

Perfect Peace for An Imperfect Puzzle

In my guest room, I have a framed Thomas Kinkade puzzle. It’s so pretty with the calming colors and serene view. It’s one of my favorites, and there’s a funny story behind it, too!

Years ago, when I was pregnant with Lydia, I had a small ‘bucket list’ to complete before she was born. I knew I’d have little time to myself when she came. I thought a one-thousand-piece puzzle would be a big accomplishment. Great idea, right?!

Puzzle (2)

What was I thinking?!

The puzzle was way more difficult than I imagined! Who knew so many tiny pieces could look exactly alike? It took me several months to complete with a few weeks “off” here and there… Finally, Dave gave me an ultimatum:

Finish the puzzle before the baby comes, or we’re going to toss it.
To be fair, the puzzle had been on the dining room table for months! 🙂

Well, wouldn’t you know that after all that time and effort, I could not find the last piece! Aggh!

(Can you find the ‘hole’ from the missing piece in the picture above?)

Well, Dave framed the puzzle for me and put it on the wall anyway. There’s no way I’d toss it after all that hard work! These days, I still love piecing together puzzles. But, with a little one running around, I have more realistic expectations now!

hands picking up puzzle pieces

Life is not perfect…but, it is still beautiful. In some ways, we’re all like puzzle pieces!

My missing puzzle piece reminds me that each one of us has importance to God. The picture is sadly incomplete if pieces are missing. Also, if a few people don’t do their part, we all suffer. Let’s pull together and use our talents and gifts.

God is in charge of the ‘big picture.’ He knows how the puzzle goes together because it is His design. We are His masterpiece and He misses the lost pieces! We may not see how we all fit until later. But, we can trust Him to guide us into place. Let’s participate cheerfully and help those around us.

We all have unique shapes and functions, but each one has intrinsic value. For instance, there are only four corner pieces along the edges, yet, the corner pieces are not more significant than others along the edge. Some pieces are more prominent, but all pieces are needed for a complete picture.

Humility and good attitudes are key to getting along with those in close proximity. Cover personality differences with grace, and connect with others. Don’t be overly concerned about what is going on in the far corners, but do your part to hold your quadrant together. May we lay aside our pride and include others.

Some puzzle pieces have rough edges and won’t feel like a good fit. God may use them elsewhere eventually, but don’t miss the opportunity to extend them grace. Treat them well. Show them God’s love. Maybe they will become a great fit or dear friend after all! We’re all a work in progress, right?

We can’t fix our own imperfections. The truth is we’ll never will be able to get it all right, all the time! But, we don’t have to worry about our lives or the final outcome. God Himself fills the gaps for us and holds all things together (see Colossians 1:17).

puzzle_peace

Yes, God has solved the puzzle of peace in our lives. He has shown us His loves through Jesus (Romans 5:8), who gave His life on the Cross to redeem us and bring us His perfect peace. Because of His resurrection, we can be restored and live a new life of purpose.

God’s grace is more than enough for our lack; He fixes and renews what is broken. Let’s keep our eyes on Jesus and the big picture. He who began a good work in us will be faithful to complete it (Philippians 1:6).

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God, thank You for Jesus! Thanks for the gift of new life You offer. Help us shine Your light as You piece us together, and let Your peace reign in our hearts. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Have you accepted God’s gift of new life and peace? Do you have any tricks for keeping all the pieces of a puzzle together?!

 

Posted on in Miscellaneous, Wisdom

Do You Feel Lucky?!

Do you feel lucky? (Well, do ya, Punk?!) 😉

Tomorrow is March 17th —Saint Patrick’s Day—so remember to wear your green!

I happen to have a little Irish blood on my dad’s side, but many people celebrate even if they’re not Irish. There are so many fun traditions and folklore!

Here’s a picture of Lydia’s first St. Patrick’s Day several years ago. This was a couple months before Dave got sick. Lydia wasn’t even sitting up yet!

Lydia's first St Patrick's Day

Luck is a term we use casually to wish someone well, in the sense of good fortune or success: “Good luck with your presentation today!” Or, it can be used in the negative sense of ‘bad luck’ usually associated with an accident. Occasionally, you’ll even see a sarcastic eye-roll as in, “Yeah…good luck with that!”

Recently, there was an incident that could’ve had a big impact on my finances. I received a message about a fraudulent charge on my debit card. I was concerned because I had just looked at my account ten minutes prior to the call. I hadn’t noticed anything suspicious, so was a little freaked out. I immediately hung up and notified my bank.

Sure enough, someone in Rhode Island spent over $100 at a gas station with my information! I have never been to Rhode Island, and have no idea how that happened!

Needless to say, I am now waiting for a new debit card because my other account was closed. While it’s somewhat inconvenient, I don’t really mind considering the alternative. I was thankful for my bank and the quick response.

Some people might consider me lucky. “Whew, you’re lucky that worked out!” However, I did not feel lucky—I felt LOVED.
I was grateful for God’s grace that covered the situation. He not only provides for me—He protects me, too. Thank You, Jesus, for looking out for me!

pennies

I don’t know about you, but I don’t want to leave my life up to accident, luck, lottery, chance, or coincidence. It is dangerous to have my safety, security, and success hinged on something completely unreliable. So what should we do instead?

TRUST GOD. He is Jehovah Jireh, my Provider. His Name shows His character and faithfulness. God is limitless and is more than able to meet our genuine needs. He is generous to give us what we desire too.

Note: For the most part, God is not into instant gratification. Most often we find we have to wait. But as we wait, God refines our desires to and prepares our hearts to receive His best.

Waiting is not passive. It includes praising God, learning more about Him, and being obedient in the present. Waiting grows hope and cultivates patience (see Psalm 37:7). When our focus is on God, not on the stuff we want, our attitude is right.

OBEY. God rewards obedience—doing what He asks us to do. Sometimes, we get rewarded with a promotion at work, or a something new and shiny…sure. But God is not a genie! Our temporary ‘happiness’ is not His utmost goal. Becoming more like His Son, Jesus, carries eternal significance (see Galatians 5:22-23).

PRAY. God loves it when we come to Him. He cares about every detail in our lives! It may take awhile to see the answer—keep praying. God will come through for you. It’s a privilege to pray for others, too. What a blessing to be part of what God is doing for someone else!

Whether God answers YES, NO, or WAIT, be thankful. He says NO on our behalf, so we can say YES to His best. Trust Him; do what He says to do; and keep praying.

clover

“God’s way is perfect. All the LORD’s promises prove true. He is a shield for all who look to him for protection” (Psalm 18:30). That’s better than winning the lottery!

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Father God, thanks for Your protection. You meet our needs and fill our lives with goodness! Help us to walk in obedience as You faithfully lead us. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: How does it feel to know the ‘odds’ are 100% that God hears and answers your prayers? Is it difficult to trust God with the answer, or do you truly leave it up to Him?