3 Steps to a Change of Focus

Last summer I went through a season—the kind where sadness wasn’t a stranger. It wasn’t an emergency situation. I also felt happiness and joy, love and a sense of accomplishment, and I was active and present where I was. But, I knew the anniversary of the loss of a loved one and stressful situations had me feeling down…and I knew that in time it would pass.

I was reminded that actions and activities can either contribute to, or help improve, melancholy when I scrolled through Facebook one morning. I was already feeling low, for reasons I had on my mental list, when I started seeing photos of close friends with narratives of deep friendship and I felt a familiar sense of longing.

As I started adding to my mental list of complaints I realized I had to close out of Facebook. Just one click on the little X at the top corner of the screen isn’t difficult, and yet sometimes it is. I closed the screen and felt a nudge to make a different list. This list was to remind me of what I do have. I hadn’t forgotten—my focus was just on the wrong list.

Please join me at Candidly Christian where I'm sharing 3 steps I take to change my focus. They may seem like small steps, but they can make a big difference in our daily lives.

In Christ,
Laura

[Photo credit: Candidly Christian]


Linking up with: Grace & Truth

What If?

Last night, we got into a What if? conversation. Not the kind that causes worry, but rather wonder.

What if my husband and I hadn’t gone out the night we met? What if we’d each chosen to do something else that night…would we have met each other at a different time? It seems unlikely.

Which means everything since then wouldn’t have happened. Or would have occurred in completely different ways.

It made me keep thinking and wondering about how we live our days and how any given decision can affect the future…

What if we focused on the positive instead of the negative?

What if we spent less time worried or angry?

What if we were less offended by all the things that offend us?

What if we decide to choose joy despite circumstances?

How would everything be different? Better?

Think about it.

How much time do we waste stewing about the past or worried about the future? {Tweet this}

Every day, we have the choice to spend our time holding on to anger and unforgiveness…or letting it go.

We have the choice to turn to God, to walk closer to Him, and to receive and grow in His love and forgiveness. Or we can choose not to.

What if we wonder (not worry) and let the what ifs help us make better daily choices?

In Christ,

Laura

  

Linking up with: Five Minute Friday, Purposeful Faith, #TeaAndWord, Trekking Thru, #GraceFullTuesday, #TellHisStory, Let's Have Coffee, #porchstories, #RechargeWednesday, Sitting Among Friends, #gracemoments, Moments of Hope, Faith 'n Friends, Grace & Truth, #FreshMarketFriday, #FaithonFire, #BVNetworkParty

3 Prayers for Today

I think a lot about manna. You know, the unidentifiable food substance God provided for the Israelites in the desert. Every morning, it sat on the ground with the morning dew and the Israelites were to gather just enough for that day.

Every day, God gave them what they needed, just enough for one day at a time so the Israelites would learn to rely on Him for their every need.

I think of manna at the end of the day when I’m not sure how I had enough strength and energy for the hard stuff I dealt with.

The tough conversation…

The disappointments…

All the ways in which I was stretched beyond what I could handle on my own….

And yet, with God’s help, I made it through.

Manna reminds me that day-by-day, my needs will be met. It may not be the way I would like (the line between want and need often gets blurred), but God knows, and I’m still learning to trust and rely on Him.

Manna is a reminder that worrying about “what-if” and “how-will-I” for the future gets me nowhere. I need to focus and look for what God is doing today. {Tweet this}

Manna leads me to pray 3 prayers. For today. And every day.

3 Prayers for Today

Lord, let me see You today.

Whatever our day looks like, God is present. On those days when we’re distracted and all we can see is what we’re facing, we have to intentionally look for Him. I’ve been reminded of His presence in the way the morning sun beamed down through the clouds as I drove to work, unexpected flowers on a plant that rarely bloomed, and the way a text or email from a friend came at just the right moment.

These may seem small or insignificant, but when we’re looking for God, they’re gentle reminders that say I AM here.

Lord, give me the strength and energy I need for today.

Just as we ask Him to provide daily provisions, like food, clothing, and shelter, I know I need His help in other ways to get through each day. I need to rely on His strength, His energy, His compassion for others, and His grace.

Jesus was always in direct contact with His Father. We need to be too. Quiet time with God grounds me and helps me focus on Him, instead of all that is going on around me. A quick prayer before we act—Lord, give me the words to speak or Lord, show me how I can support her—helps us see others through His eyes, rather than through our own.

Lord, guide my steps today.

When life feels difficult, I know that even though I can’t see what’s ahead, I need to keep doing the next thing. The problem is sometimes I don’t know what that next thing is. I know what I want to see happen, but it might not line up with God’s plan. I need Him to guide my steps and show me where my attention and focus should be.

Allowing myself to be led by Him (even on the days when I feel like I’m not accomplishing anything) may open my eyes to something He wants to show me that I’ve been missing. Or it may lead me to the rest and relaxation He knows I need.

But even better, it will draw me closer to Him as I wait on Him, lean into Him, and depend on Him. Today. And every day.

In Christ,

Laura 

[Photo credit: Unsplash.com]

Linking up with: Purposeful Faith, #TeaAndWord, Trekking Thru, Let's Have Coffee, #porchstories, #RechargeWednesday, Sitting Among Friends, #HeartEncouragement, #ChasingCommunity, Moments of Hope, #gracemoments, Grace & Truth, #DestinationInspiration, #FaithonFire, Faith 'n Friends, #FreshMarketFriday

Called to Pray

I recently made a commitment to pray for someone in the morning and at bedtime. This wasn't a new commitment, but a more intentional one. However, it didn't take long before my plan felt like one more thing I had to do.

To be honest, I’m long past frustrated with the situation we've been in and that our prayers have not been answered. I know He's at work and that His way and timing are best, but I've grown weary in the wait. Maybe you can relate?

Last week as I got ready for bed, I wanted to skip praying that night. I thought, why bother?

But immediately I wondered, what if a breakthrough is right around the corner?

I'm not in any way suggesting that God's work is dependent on my prayers. But I know that when I stop praying it opens the door to drifting away from Him.

My prayers for someone else aren't just for that person, they are for me too.

Prayer keeps me close to the One whose love and power are unlimited. No matter what I can or can't see, nothing is impossible for God. {Tweet this}

Prayer gives me strength to face tomorrow. It gives me the ability to see His work, even especially when it's not what I've been asking for.

Prayer allows me to stand in the gap for someone who is struggling the way others have stood in the gap for me.

Never stop praying, especially for others. Always pray by the power of the Spirit. Stay alert and keep praying for God's people.
Ephesians 6:18 CEV

God calls us to pray because it keeps us close to Him and focused on Him. {Tweet this}

The enemy hates that. He knows he cannot stand in Jesus' presence so he'll watch for the moment he can slither in before we even know what happened.

I'm tired of praying and seeing no change, but praying enables me to keep hoping. And without hope, what is there?

Yes, my frustration grows on some days, but so does my praise and thankfulness because I know He's here and my impatience doesn't cause Him to turn away.

Don't worry about anything, but pray about everything. With thankful hearts offer up your prayers and requests to God. Then, because you belong to Christ Jesus, God will bless you with peace that no one can completely understand. And this peace will control the way you think and feel.
Philippians 4:6-7 CEV

Peace. In the midst of difficulty. Only through faith in Jesus.

Lord, I know You can. I don't understand why You haven't. But I know that doesn't mean You won't. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

In Christ,

Laura

[Photo credit: Unsplash.com]

Linking up with: #DreamTogether, #glimpsesofHisbeauty, Purposeful Faith, Trekking Thru, #TeaAndWord, #TellHisStory, Coffee for Your Heart, #porchstories, #RechargeWednesday, Sitting Among Friends, #ChasingCommunity, Moments of Hope, #DesitinationInspiration, Faith ‘n Friends, Grace & Truth, #FaithonFire, #FreshMarketFriday, #HeartEncouragement

Called to Peace

Peace. It feels unobtainable at times, doesn’t it?

We long to see peace in the world. And lately, even in our own country.

We want peace between each other, and at times we have it. Days when there is no active tension or quarrels. But, even that can be fleeting.

On a deeply personal level, we want to feel at peace. Peace within ourselves is a different definition than peace between people and countries.

Peace—freedom from disquieting or oppressive thoughts or emotions. (Merriam-Webster.com)

Peace within means there’s no personal conflict. It means freedom from worry, negative feelings, emotions out of control, and obsessing over things we should have done better or differently.

Peace within feels like a sigh of relief. Relief from the heavy weight we pick up in the morning and carry around until bedtime. Relief from the heaviness that keeps us tossing and turning all night.

I want that sigh-of-relief-peace, don’t you?

We search for it. Strive for it. And grasp at it. But on our own, our striving gets us nowhere. Why, when we try so hard, is peace unattainable?

Because that at-ease, everything-will-be-okay peace doesn’t come by our own hand. It comes from the One who promised us peace in an unpeaceful world. {Tweet this}

But when the Father sends the Advocate as my representative—that is, the Holy Spirit—he will teach you everything and will remind you of everything I have told you. “I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don’t be troubled or afraid.

John 14:26-27 NLT

Yes, that peace.

The peace we find when we focus on the One—Jesus—who promised us peace. The One who always keeps His promises.

You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you!

Isaiah 26:3 NLT

Fix—to hold or direct steadily; to make firm, stable, or stationary (Merriam-Webster.com)

…all whose thoughts are fixed on you

Thoughts held firm, without wavering. Minds focused on Jesus while the world moves around us.

That’s how we find peace within…when our eyes are focused, and our thoughts are fixed, on Jesus. The One who is unshakeable in a constantly shaking world. {Tweet this}

And know that the peace of God (a peace that is beyond any and all of our human understanding) will stand watch over your hearts and minds in Jesus, the Anointed One.

Philippians 4:7 The Voice

God’s peace guarding our hearts and minds. Sigh.

Have a peaceful day!

In Christ,

Laura  

[Photo credit: Pixabay.com]

Linking up with: Coffee for Your Heart, Grace Moments, Writer Wednesday, #HeartEncouragement, Thought Provoking Thursday, #ChasingCommunity, Faith 'n Friends, Grace & Truth, #FreshMarketFriday

My One Word 2017

Early in December I started praying, asking God what my One Word for 2017 would be. I listened and watched for anything He might show me.

Joy was a common theme. It seemed like I was seeing it everywhere. So, I wondered...maybe it's Joy.

Although, it's possible I was just desperate for an uplifting word. After all, my word for 2016 was Persevere. And let me tell you...It. Was. Hard.

Joy sounded positive and happy. I was ready for joy. But, it didn't feel quite right. I felt like I was jumping on to the Joy bandwagon. So, I waited...and kept asking.

Then, several days before Christmas I turned to the book of Exodus to read again about Moses and the burning bush.

There the angel of the Lord appeared to him in flames of fire from within a bush. Moses saw that though the bush was on fire it did not burn up. So Moses thought, “I will go over and see this strange sight—why the bush does not burn up.” When the Lord saw that he had gone over to look, God called to him from within the bush, "Moses! Moses!” And Moses said, “Here I am.” Exodus 3:2-4 NIV

I've read these verses so many times, and yet I was drawn to them. (I love how God will get my attention when He wants to.)

I was reminded that God calls me by name, just like He did Moses. And just like He calls you. {Tweet this}

I was so captured by this fact, I posted this in a Facebook group.

"Went from Kelly's book (Fear Fighting) to Exodus to reread of the burning bush and holy ground this morning...and God caught my attention with this...God called to Moses BY NAME. Just like Moses, God knows and acknowledges each of us BY NAME. We're not just another one of His children, He knows each of us individually BY NAME. I wonder if we forget that sometimes.”

I continued to think about it for days and pondered the ways in which God calls us.

We are called by name for His purpose.

We are called to be who He designed us to be, not a copycat of someone else.

We are called to persevere.

We are called to joy.

My One Word for 2017? 

Called.

It feels right to me. It may not be easy, but maybe that's the point. If it were easy, it wouldn't be much of a focus. {Tweet this}

Maybe it's just me, but Called feels uplifting (just what I was hoping for!), and I'm looking forward to seeing what God has in store for me. 

Do you choose One Word to focus on each year? If so, what is your word for 2017, and how do you feel about it?

In Christ,

Laura

[Photo credit: Unsplash.com]

Linking up with: #TellHisStory, Coffee for Your Heart, #ChasingCommunity, Thought Provoking Thursday, Grace & Truth, #FreshMarketFriday, Faith 'n Friends, #GraceMoments, Inspire Me Monday, The Consilium

Jesus is Greater than My Problems

It’s December 26—the day after Christmas. The day life goes back to normal. But not really because the meaning of Christmas—Jesus—is still fresh in my mind and heart.

How do we hold on to the feeling of Christmas all year long? I don’t mean the charitable giving feeling, although that would be great all year too. I’m talking about the emotion that goes with knowing Jesus came to earth for us.

Jesus Christ—Son of God and Son of man. A tiny infant born to a young girl who welcomed God’s calling in her life. Son of a carpenter, who did not leave Mary, but who also answered God’s call in his life.

That’s the feeling I want all year—to remember that Jesus’ sacrifice will always be greater than any, and all, of my problems. Always. {Tweet this}

So, today as I look out the window, thankful for the bright sun on a cold day, I’m resisting the urge to think about the circumstances I cannot control. The details I can’t put in order. And the problems I can’t fix.

Instead, I’m thinking about Jesus’ birth and all of the details God orchestrated for our salvation. I’m remembering how He’s worked in past situations for my good, knowing that He will do so again. I’m thankful for what I do have, and not thinking about what I might see as lacking.

I’m pondering how God called Mary and Joseph by name to be a part of His beautiful plan, and reminding myself that God still calls us today. You and me. He calls us by name. It doesn’t get more personal than that. {Tweet this}

Friends, if today is your first time visiting, or your 101^st time here, I thank you. I know there are demands on your time and so many other things you could be doing, but you chose to spend a minute or two here with me, and I thank you. You have been a blessing to me in so many ways and I pray that your time here blesses you as well. May we always remember how much God loves and cares for us. He calls each of us by name…and we are His. (Isaiah 43:1)

In Christ,

Laura

[Photo credit: FreeImages.com]

Linking up with: Purposeful Faith, #TellHisStory, Coffee for Your Heart, #FreshMarketFriday, Faith 'n Friends, Grace & Truth

God’s Gift of No

Think of a child who asks her parent for something…and the answer is no. Rarely is that the end of the conversation. The child wants to know why? Why is the answer no?

I think of this because I know I’m often that child when God answers no. But why God? I don’t understand. Why can’t I have that? (Because, in my mind, it seems so perfect.) But like the parent who knows what’s best for her daughter, God knows what’s best for me.

Even as an adult, “no” isn’t what I want to hear when my sights are set on one particular thing. I justify it. I explain it. I might even whine a little. Maybe God will change His mind.

Over the past couple of years, I’ve been looking at God’s answer of no a little differently. I know I’m in a season of life that won’t last forever. 

Maybe God’s no to one thing is so that I can focus on where I am right now. So I can be fully present where I’m needed today. So I don’t miss out on this season that will one day be over.

It wasn’t easy to reach this point of acceptance. Some days, I take a few steps back and ask why again. And God gently reminds me to be here today.

With acceptance comes peace. Peace with the season I’m in. That doesn’t mean the struggles aren’t real. They are, and some days are like walking into a squall. They can be brutal. But acceptance calms my desires for what isn’t mine to have right now.

Acceptance doesn’t mean I stop trying. It doesn’t mean not moving forward. 

Acceptance of the season I’m in means I can see the gift of today. 

Despite the most difficult moments, today won’t last forever. God’s gift is the peace to see that.

Maybe God’s no is really a gift of right now because tomorrow I will regret missing today. It’s too easy to be so focused on what I want that I can’t see what I have.

God’s no right now might only be for this season. Like a child hears, “Don’t be in such a hurry to grow up,” I’m hearing, “Don’t be in such a hurry to rush through to the next season. There’s too much to miss today.”

I don’t know what the future holds, but God does. Whether the future is tomorrow or years from now, God knows what He has planned. I don’t want to look back at yesterday and regret what I missed because I was whining about tomorrow. 

With all your heart you must trust the Lord and not your own judgment. Always let Him lead you, and He will clear the road for you to follow. Proverbs 3:5-6 CEV

Are you in a season where God’s no is a gift?

In Christ,

Laura 

Linking up with #livefreeThursday, Grace & Truth, Faith 'n Friends, Weekend Whispers, Give Me Grace, #TellHisStory, #RaRaLinkup, #SmallWonder, Coffee for Your Heart, #TheLoft

Why We Need to Know and Believe God’s Promises

I’m in a season I’m not enjoying. It’s a season of difficulty and looking for answers. But receiving none.

I’m full of questions.

Why God?!?

When God?!?

How God?!?

But I’m not hearing much from God lately.

I know He’s with me because He promises to never leave me, but so many times, I wish He’d be a little more obvious about His presence.

I’ve realized again why it’s so important to be in God’s Word and to know His promises—before a season of waiting on my part and silence on His part.

We must know and believe God’s promises to us before we’re in the desert. The desert ground isn’t fertile for much, but it’s the perfect environment for doubt and disobedience.

The Israelites learned that the hard way. When they refused to enter the Promised Land with God’s blessing the first time (after 40 days), their time in the desert became 40 years. (Numbers 14:34)

Not much grows in the desert, except doubt—it flourishes.

So, before I start doubting God’s presence, I must know and believe the promises He’s made to me. And to you.

Before fear takes hold, God tells us…

Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.” Deuteronomy 31:6 NIV

Before discouragement sets in, God says…

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9 NIV

Before we decide we can’t do what God asks, He reminds us…

The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.” Deuteronomy 31:8 NIV

When the situations seems impossible, Jesus assured us…

Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.” Matthew 19:26 NIV

Before hopelessness can grow, God’s Word blesses us…

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15:13 NIV

And when we think we just can’t do it anymore, we are promised…

I can do all things [which He has called me to do] through Him who strengthens and empowers me [to fulfill His purpose—I am self-sufficient in Christ’s sufficiency; I am ready for anything and equal to anything through Him who infuses me with inner strength and confident peace.] Philippians 4:13 AMP

There are so many more promises God has made to us. These are just a few I’ve been praying and reminding myself of.

Oh, and this –

God keeps His promises. Always.

For your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom. You rule throughout all generations. The Lord always keeps his promises; he is gracious in all he does. The Lord helps the fallen and lifts those bent beneath their loads. Psalm 145:13-14 NLT

What promises from God do you know and rely on? Would you share them here with us?

In Christ,

Laura

[Photo credit: K. Rath ©2016]

Linking up with: Faith 'n Friends, Grace & Truth, Coffee for Your Heart, Faith Filled Friday, #RaRaLinkup

Persevere—My One Word for 2016

Persevere.

Me: (sigh) But God, that means it’s going to be a hard year.

Last year was hard.

Me: Oh, You’re right. It was.

That was my brief conversation with God on New Year’s Day. I wasn’t ready to embrace the word Persevere at first. It sounded too much like trouble ahead. But, last year was hard. So was the year before.

Maybe Persevere was a good word after all.

I started to dig in to this new word by looking in Scripture.

…rejoice in hope, be patient in suffering, persevere in prayer,… 

Romans 12:12 MEV

It practically jumped off the page.

Persevere in prayer…even when I don’t hear any answers…even when I’m tired of praying for the same thing over and over…even when I’m tired of waiting.

Especially when I’m tired of waiting because that’s when I get lax in praying. It’s when I get tempted to go my own way.

By definition, persevere means to persist in anything undertaken; to maintain a purpose in spite of difficulty, obstacles, or discouragement; to continue steadfastly. (dictionary.com)

To keep moving forward despite challenges in the way, but not foolishly. Not without guidance and wisdom from God.

Persevere in prayer.

Persevere in asking for wisdom and guidance.

Persevere in living the way I should as a follower of Jesus—even when it’s a treacherous road and I’m worn out tired.

There’s more to this word, persevere, than I first thought. And I have a year of learning ahead of me.

In Christ,

Laura

Photo credit: Freeimages.com

Linking up with: #SmallWonder, Give Me Grace

God is Not Bound by One Word

It’s only a few days until the end of the year, and I don’t have my One Word for 2016 yet. I’ve been thinking about it, and I’ve kind of asked God about it, but I’m not quite ready to move on from this year’s word—Renew.

Renew felt hopeful…full of possibilities. All year, it’s been my focus and I’ve been looking for ways in which God has brought about renewal in my life. Renew is a positive, uplifting word. Last year, God gave me Let Go for the year, so you can see why Renew was a breath of fresh air.

I’ve been wrestling with keeping Renew for another year or moving on. But I wonder if that’s like trying to put parameters around God’s work.

For the past four years, I’ve had a one word focus, and I’ve trusted God to identify that focus for me. So, clinging to Renew might not be the best idea. Maybe He has a better word in mind for me for the upcoming year, and if I don’t move forward, I’ll miss what He has planned.

And then I realized…it doesn’t matter. God will continue to bring about renewal, just as He always has. I just need to keep looking for it.

A One Word focus is for my benefit, not God’s. He is not bound by one word, or even two. He doesn’t need something to keep Him focused, but He knows I do.

I need the reminder that God is at work, no matter what I can see and not see.

God builds on what He teaches us, and there is always more to learn.

I am still learning to trust Him (One Word 2012), praise Him (2013), to let go of my will for His (2014), and to wait while He renews.

God is always at work. Always teaching. Refining me. Bringing me closer to Him.

I must continue to learn from Him. Listen for Him. And seek Him. Every. Single. Day.

I don’t know what my focus will be for next year, but I know there will be more lessons to learn.

…and that’s a good thing.

What’s been your One Word for 2015? Are you ready to move on to a new word for 2016?

If you’re new to this One Word movement, you can find more information here: #OneWord365.

In Christ,

Laura

Photo credit: FreeImages.com

Linking up with: Weekend Whispers, Sharing His Beauty, #RaRaLinkup, Coffee for Your Heart

Why I Won’t Be Sending Christmas Cards This Year

Earlier this week, I had the privilege of speaking at a women’s event. The theme for the evening was Joy in the Journey, and I asked the women this question:

What perfect plans do we need to let go of this year in order to feel the joy of Jesus’ birth?

December can be a whirlwind of activity…decorating, shopping, visiting, and traveling, while still maintaining home, work, and normal daily activities.

No wonder we get tired and stretched thin.

After the event, I asked myself the same question. What do I need to let go of?

The thing is, I feel like I’ve let go of a lot over this past year. With ongoing health issues in my family, the stress has taken its toll on me. I let go of perfection a long time ago. Things I used to keep up with don’t get done as often, and I’ve stopped feeling guilty about it.

I’ve let myself off the hook, and I spend more time just being with those who need me. (And not trying to multi-task at the same time.)

So, what else can I let go of? Where can I peel a layer (even if it’s a very thin layer) of stress off of my shoulders?

Christmas cards.

Maybe that sounds silly, but it’s the task that keeps coming to mind. Each year, I make a list of whom to send a card too. I always plan to write personal notes, but that usually doesn’t happen. They just end up getting mailed at the last minute because I thought I’d have time…and then I didn’t.

So, this year, instead of going through the charade and stressing over it for the next two weeks, that’s my decision. If you don’t receive a Christmas card from my family…please don’t take it personally. 

Instead, I’m going to think about the Advent season we’re in and what it means. And I’m going to continue to spend my non-multi-tasking time with those who need me.

And…I’ll ask you—what do you need to let go of in this Advent season?

In Christ,

Laura 

Photo credit: FreeImages.com

Linking up with: Everyday Jesus, Thought Provoking Thursday, Grace & Truth, #TellHisStory, Five Minute Friday, Faith 'n Friends

Worthy of a Miracle {Guest Post and Giveaway}

I'm pleased to offer my space today to author Linda Kuhar, where I've asked her to share a glimpse into her inspiring story. Linda's new book Worthy of a Miracle releases on November 10, but you can order it now on Amazon.

Please continue reading to the end of this post where Linda has been kind enough to offer a free giveaway of her book!

"When I was diagnosed with cancer and was afraid I was going to die, I wanted my time back. I wanted to undo the days I’d let slip through my hands . . . the slow and sweet moments with my husband, and the simple and silly moments with my daughter. I would sit on my front porch swing with the sinking feeling (the new reality!) that I only had that very hour, that very day. I could not go backward, and I was not guaranteed a future. I just had today.

Looking back, I am finally aware of what a tremendous gift it was to recognize that all I had was that single moment." (Excerpt from Worthy of a Miracle pg.177)

Several years ago I woke up in the middle of the night and this acronym popped in my mind. 

I put it in my cell phone and it stayed there for about a year before I ever did anything with it. Then one day when I was really struggling I pulled the acronym out and started journaling about how it applied to my relationship with God. Little did I know that years later this acronym would be in my very first book, Worthy of a Miracle, 5 Simple Truths for Believing and Receiving God’s Love!

Focusing on today is one of the key points in Part Two of my book. We all struggle in this fast pace world with actually living in the present moment. I personally get so overwhelmed with my "To Do List" and easily stay a day ahead or at least a few hours ahead in my mind continuously.

Do you ever find yourself struggling with the same thing?

After living with cancer, you might think it’s easy for me to appreciate every second of the day and stay focused on the present moment, but that’s not the case. However, there are a few habits I share in Chapter 13 Just Live Today, that help me live in the present moment and stay focused on God’s presence with me. I invite you to try one of these today:

1. Deep breathing—taking time to simply breathe.

2. Thanking, praising, and worshiping God continually throughout the day.

3. Slowing down. Not rushing through my day.

4. Being aware of how I’m feeling physically. Is there tension throughout my body?

5. Listening—to myself, to my surroundings, to God.

I know for me when I’m really connected with God, I’m able to be mindful of every minute, whether it’s talking with my daughter or enjoying dinner with my husband.

My hope is for you too to Just Live Today and enjoy each and every moment. 

*****

Linda, thank you for sharing a bit of your experience with us!

Now, for the giveaway...Leave a comment telling us which Just Live Today habit you might try, or if there’s a habit you already practice that keeps you focused on Jesus. On Thursday, Nov. 12, I'll randomly select one winner from the comments to receive a copy of Linda's book Worthy of a Miracle. (Winner must reside in the U.S.)

***Congratulations Tallulah Jane! You won the copy of Linda's book Worthy of a Miracle!***

LINDA KUHAR is a wife and mother who survived Stage 3 cancer and a coma resulting from a compromised immune system during cancer treatment in 2009. Although doctors predicted she would never walk or breathe again on her own, she proved them wrong. One year after awakening from her coma, she ran her very first half marathon with Team In Training for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.

You can find Linda on her website at: http://www.lindakuhar.com, and connect with her on Facebook, Twitter: @LindaKuhar, and Pinterest: Linda Kuhar, Christian Life Coach.

Linking up with #RaRaLinkup

Find Him

I’m joining the Five Minute Friday community with Kate Motaung this weekend…5 minutes, no rewriting, and a one word prompt…

Find

But if from there you seek the Lord your God, you will find Him if you seek Him with all your heart and with all your soul. Deuteronomy 4:29 NIV

But if from there...

From my lousy day, from my sinful behavior, from where I've wandered from God and gotten lost.

...you seek the Lord your God,...

Because we've never strayed so far that we can't cry out to Him.

...you will find Him...

And He promises that He will never abandon us.

...if you seek Him with all your heart and with all your soul.

I wonder...do I? Do I look for God with all of my heart and soul? On those days when I can't feel His presence, could it be because I'm not totally focused on Him? Not with all of my heart and soul?

Lord, You know my days are scattered and hectic. I struggle to quiet my mind and settle my soul, and when I search for You, I confess it's in the midst of my to-do list. Father, please calm my spirit and help me to focus solely on You, so that I can truly seek You with all of my heart and soul. And when I do, I know that I will find You.

***

Congratulations to the winner of the signed copy of Fulfilled by Danise Jurado and the Fulfilled bag…­­­Angie!

***

In Christ,

Laura 

Linking up with Five Minute Friday, Grace & Truth, Weekend Whispers, Give Me Grace

If God Asked...Would You?

A few years ago, my friend, co-worker, and pastor returned from a conference talking about the topic of this question...if God asked, would you?

Would you follow where God wanted to lead you, even if it meant being uncomfortable?

This week, we say goodbye as he and his family move out of state to follow where God is leading. It will be far from comfortable or easy. Staying would be safe. Going involves risk.

Jesus never said following Him would be safe. Following Jesus involves risk. It means stepping out in faith, even when you can't see where the road leads.

Following Jesus isn't easy, but walking in obedience is worth the risk.

God asked, and my friend said yes.

God has been preparing the way for him, and maybe, as we watch his example of obedience, He's preparing the way for someone else.

What I do know is how thankful I am that God orchestrated our paths to cross and run parallel for six years. I don't know what God has planned for the future, but it's in looking back where I see how I've grown, and the lasting effects of our working together and friendship.

As I told my friend, I'm happy for him. I've had the privilege to watch God equip him with the passion and ability to love and serve others. And now it's time to share that somewhere else.

But, I won't pretend I'm not sad to say goodbye. And that's okay, because maybe the depth of sadness is equal to the impact made in my life.

Now I can't help but wonder...if God asks, will I?

In Christ,

Laura 

Photo credit: FreeImages.com

Linking up with Faith Filled Friday, Grace & Truth, Blessing Counters, The Weekend Brew, Give Me Grace, Sunday Stillness, Inspire Me Monday, #RaRaLinkup, Sharing His Beauty, #SmallWonder, Playdates with God, #TellHisStory, Everyday Jesus, Thought Provoking Thursday, Blessing Counters, Faith Filled Friday