emotional growth

In a season that celebrates giving and connection, the blog post delves into the profound impact of being remembered and cherished. It reflects on the intimate sense of being truly seen and known, attributing this profound understanding to your Creator, God. The message reassures that God never forgets us, holding us close with unwavering faithfulness, reminding readers of His constant presence and nurturing love.

Drawing from the imagery of the Last Supper, the article portrays Jesus's intimate moment with His disciples, illustrating the depth of His promise and love. The narrative invites reflection on the shared relationship with God, characterized by mutual remembrance and deep affection. It challenges readers to consider their personal connection and response to God's love, prompting a heartfelt promise of devotion and gratitude.

The reflection concludes with a call to action, encouraging individuals to demonstrate their remembrance and gratitude towards God in everyday life. It invokes a sense of companionship with the divine, reinforcing that this mutual remembrance is a cherished gift. Ultimately, the blog post is a meditation on love and spiritual intimacy, urging readers to embrace and acknowledge their own sacred relationship with God.

In a vivid portrayal of lessons learned from nature, the article discusses how young chickies are transitioned into their new living space amidst the challenges of inclement weather. The piece beautifully intertwines the spiritual lesson of trust and reliance on God’s care with the tangible act of moving. As the chicks gradually adapt to their new environment, the narrative reflects on how humans, much like these creatures, can sometimes resist moving out of their comfort zones. Drawing a parallel to biblical teachings, the article emphasizes that God offers us a safe haven and rest, just as the mother hen shields her young under her wings.

This reflective message serves as a reminder of the peace and protection found in trusting God, encouraging readers to embrace change, no matter how uncomfortable it might seem. Through this story, we are invited to draw closer to Creator God and demonstrate trust, confident that in doing so, we are aligning ourselves with God's plan for thriving health.

What are you creating that is evidence of your emboldened hope?

🌱 Are you planning your spring garden?

📝 Writing poetry or a book?

🎨 Drawing, painting, or sculpting?

🏡 Decorating cozy spaces?

🧵 Some other kind of crafting?

What fills you with joy? What cultivates your hope?

Are you making it a priority? Are YOU your priority?

If not, consider this your permission slip to get out of some mundane daily task to just spend some time with you & for you.

“Look at the lilies and how they grow. They don’t work or make their clothing, yet Solomon in all his glory was not dressed as beautifully as they are. And if God cares so wonderfully for flowers that are here today and thrown into the fire tomorrow, he will certainly care for you. Why do you have so little faith?” Luke‬ ‭12‬:‭27‬-‭28‬ ‭NLT‬‬

For me it is an act of faith to set down my work & take time for play. 

God is on the throne. I am not. I can take a break, go to recess, & He will lovingly be tending to the cares of my heart while I get lost in His good God gifts for me. 

Like time to play & create!

So what will you create today?

To what will you give your time, energy, passion, and creativity?

 

Can I challenge you to sit before the Lord and ask HIM what His vision is for your 2024? Where would He have you to dedicate your most valuable commodity; your TIME? The evidence of your devotion to His call and purpose for your life?

 

Friend, maybe it is time for a NEW DREAM?!

 

Psalm 126

When the Lord brought back his exiles to Jerusalem,

it was like a dream!

We were filled with laughter,

and we sang for joy.

And the other nations said,

“What amazing things the Lord has done for them.”

Yes, the Lord has done amazing things for us!

What joy!

Restore our fortunes, Lord,

as streams renew the desert.

Those who plant in tears

will harvest with shouts of joy.

They weep as they go to plant their seed,

but they sing as they return with the harvest.

 

Have you endured seasons of grief, tears and weeping? Perhaps you are still in their midst now. Psalms 126 tells us we can continue to plant seeds, even during the struggles. I would suggest this is a bold move of belief. We don’t plant if we don’t believe that one day there will again be a joyous crop to harvest. Our ACTIONS demonstrate that we know our feelings aren’t the end all, be all of this SEASON of life. Darkness lasts for the night. But JESUS… His JOY comes in the morning!

 

Feelings are real but they aren’t necessarily true. Are you allowing them to hold you captive and keep you from planting seeds for the future. Or are you calling upon the Lord to give you new strength, courage, and the capacity to continue planting so that in His timing you are prepared to bring in a jubilant harvest?

 

Time and time again in my weakness, He has been my strength. He has brought me back from dark places. He has given me laughter, joy, and song. And I know He will do it for you, too, sweet friends. Just get in His presence. Let Him speak His love, light, and Truth over your situation.

 

He is lovingly waiting for you.

 

So ask Him what He would have you to value and to be about in 2024. What are the most important things for YOU to invest your time in this year?

 

**hint… it will first be Him. And the rest? Well, the rest is, as they say, gravy.

 

Matthew 6:33

Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need.

In a recent blog post, Luke 6:27-36 is examined to shed light on the concept of loving one's enemies. The author reflects on the challenge of getting close enough to love those who have a beef with you, emphasizing that physical proximity isn’t necessary. Instead, the act of blessing and praying for these individuals is highlighted as a way to respond to them. The post also examines the idea of not demanding things back when they are taken, expanding the concept beyond physical possessions to include dignity, respect, love, and kindness. The author suggests contemplating lending these qualities to those who do not offer the same in return. Overall, the post encourages a thoughtful and compassionate approach to dealing with opponents or difficult individuals.