Welcoming November often turns the thoughts of our hearts to gratitude. It seems gratitude always has more to teach us with each passing year. Recently I sat with the intricately woven idea of gratitude for God’s sufficient grace. Fully understanding God’s grace extended to me through the undeserved favor of God and others shines forth in humble gratitude which honors…
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Gratitude For God’s Sufficient Grace
Trusting God in Uncertainty
In the times in which we live, trusting God in uncertainty presents a challenge for most of us. Recently reading in the Book of Proverbs, verse 27:1 seemed especially appropriate for the challenges we face: “Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring.” We become comfortable with our expectations of tomorrow, next week, next…
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Releasing My Prodigal to God
Stretching over several years, my fear of unknowns surrounding my prodigal son and daughter, abides unhindered. Part of a yet unanswered prayer, admitting my apprehension for their welfare seems a lack of faith. Even more difficult was releasing my prodigal to God. Yet with each passing year of unknowns regarding their whereabouts or well-being, my fear etches deeper upon my…
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The One Thing You Need
When life kicks you in the gut, and the darkness of your hard path feels suffocating, though you long for the comfort of a loved one or friend, what is the one thing you need most? This isn’t a trick question, but the thing you need most is often the thing you lose first: HOPE. Sometimes in your pain, disappointment or…
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Impatient for Change
Among the many enjoyable and fun filled activities of Autumn, watching the stunning foliage changes captivates me every year. Almost as soon as September arrives, I eagerly anticipate the miraculous transformation, which seems to happen overnight. As I thought about my restlessness in waiting for Autumn’s gift of color, God reminded me how often I am impatient for change in…
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Lost Blooms Are Not Lost Growth
Perhaps the only downside to Autumn for me is fewer blooms in my garden. Small groups of summer blooms linger until the first hard frost; mums and Autumn Joy pop up here and there, but by and large, the profuse color of spring and summer has ceased. But lost blooms are not lost growth! While showy blooms capture our delight,…
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Welcoming a New Season
It feels fresh, tinged with the excitement of the new. Yet welcoming a new season also brings those latent feelings of uncertainty. After the initial joy of embracing our favorite parts of the new season, life reminds us change often sparks anxiety. Of course, not all change is bad, but navigating any change in a healthy way presents a challenge….
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If You Held the Pen
If you held the pen, how would you write your story? Urged into owning and telling your story by popular culture today, may excite feelings of regret or shame. Conversely, slipping into a bit of pride over achievements may unleash a one-dimensional exposé. Whether we choose telling our story or simply holding it, our perspective on its value determines whether…
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Autumn Acorns Speak of God’s Love
Celebrating the official arrival of my favorite season, I marveled at the activity in the garden. Goldfinches gathering seeds, cardinals fluffing their nests, and squirrels, the busiest of all, gathering hickory nuts and acorns! As I gathered a handful or two, a story from long ago of autumn acorns speaking God’s love brought a smile to my face. Autumn’s flamboyance…
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