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I have tried to lose weight and eat healthy for a long time. I look in the mirror and don’t like what I see. Maybe the snacking I do in the evening is adding up. It could also be that I end up eating too much or the wrong thing when I eat out. I realize I need to keep going and lean more into Christ for strength instead of giving up. Philippians 3:14 is, “I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.” Holy Bible, English Standard Version, 2001 God has more planned for meRead More →

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The biggest and scariest winter storm of the season passed through my state. I was terrified of losing power in our all electric home. We lost power for 36 hours in a storm last spring and the thought of no electricity during Arctic temperatures scared me. I prepared for losing power by dreading how uncomfortable it would be. My prayers were “God please keep our power on” instead of, “Lord, help us to manage if we lose power.” Psalm 46:10 is, “…Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth. Holy Bible,Read More →

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If worrying was an Olympic event, I would have several medals. I know worry does nothing to help me. When things are peaceful, I find something to worry about. The root of my anxiety is that I want my way. I need to be in control and don’t trust the Lord. Matthew 6:27 is, “Can all your worries add a single moment to your life?” Holy Bible, New Living Translation, 2015 When I trust in God, I can face anything. The mighty creator who can part waters, also cares for me. I can turn it around by changing my “worry list” into a prayer list.Read More →

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The Lord is very good to me and provides me with more than enough. On Thanksgiving, I like to think of everything I am thankful for. Throughout this past year, I have noticed multiple“little blessings”. These little gifts like a situation resolution or a hassle free drive brighten my day. When I thank Jesus for these gifts, He fills my heart with joy. Psalm 92:4 is, “You thrill me, Lord, with all you have done for me! I sing for joy because of what you have done.” Holy Bible, New Living Translation, 2015 I like the words “You thrill me, Lord,” in this translation. HisRead More →

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I am not perfect. I make mistakes because I am human. For strength, I need to seek God and spend time in His Word. The closer I grow to the Lord, the more I desire to obey Him. Luke 11:28 is, “Jesus replied, ‘But even more blessed are all who hear the word of God and put it into practice.’” Holy Bible, New Living Translation, 2015 I no longer want to miss out on God’s blessings. I want to seek Jesus and live out God’s Word. I start most days with good intentions. Once I finish my morning quiet time, I close my Bible andRead More →

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God’s plans are greater than my plans. I never know His step by step instructions but do my best to follow His lead. About a year ago, I had a plan to retire from teaching and find an office job. This did not happen as I ended up substitute teaching. At times, I wondered if I made the right decision. Sometimes it is hard to tell if I am following God’s plan or convincing myself what I want is God’s plan for me. Proverbs 16:9 is, “The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps. Holy Bible, English Standard Version, 2001Read More →

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It would be nice to enjoy a stress free week (or even a day). I am “done” with facing constant trials, problems, and issues. Every time a storm ends, another one arises. Deep down, I know Jesus tells us in John 16:33 that we will suffer in this life. This never-ending stressful cycle is tiring. James 1:2-3 is, Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. Holy Bible, English Standard Version, 2001 God uses all of my trials to mature me. I need to experience hard times to learnRead More →

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My eating is better, but the scale is not moving. I feel like I am working hard and have nothing to show for it. I search the internet for weight loss tips and want to try the latest quick fix. Sometimes, I want to “give up” and indulge in excess food. Luke 11:9-10 is, “And so I tell you, keep on asking, and you will receive what you ask for. Keep on seeking, and you will find. Keep on knocking, and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks, receives. Everyone who seeks, finds. And to everyone who knocks, the door willRead More →

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There are times I feel discouraged because I still need (and want) to work. I sometimes wonder why I worked in so many a different jobs. It doesn’t make sense that one person did everything I list on my resume. I feel nudged by the Lord to use my combined work knowledge to do freelance work. Psalm 37:23 is, “A person’s steps are established by the Lord, and he takes pleasure in his way.” Holy Bible, Christian Standard Version, 2017 Life is a journey that gets better when I follow the Lord. He has changed me and continues to prune my faults away. I believeRead More →

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I am going through a season of confusion. My path is unclear and I don’t know what to do next. I have tried to find a job outside of teaching. I feel like all the work I put into this new career search was wasted since I have nothing. I want to know how this will end before continuing this search. James 1:5 is, “Now if any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God – who gives to all generously and ungrudgingly – and it will be given to him. Holy Bible, Christian Standard Bible, 2017 I need God’s strength to walk through thisRead More →