Month: August 2025

Posted in Be Kind

How Not to Be Like This Man: Lessons on Compassion, Respect, and Christian Conduct

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

Recently, a disturbing incident unfolded in Florida where a man was arrested for repeatedly aiming sprinklers at students with disabilities as they waited for a school bus. Charged with stalking and battery, this man’s actions reflect a blatant disregard for human dignity and the teachings of Christ.

As followers of Christ, we are called to demonstrate love, compassion, and respect for all people, especially those who are vulnerable or in need. Jesus Himself set the perfect example:
“A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another.” (John 13:34)

How Not to Be Like This Man

  1. Disregard for Others’ Dignity
    This man attempted to harm or humiliate children with disabilities—an act profoundly contrary to the dignity we are all created with in God’s image. As Scripture reminds us,
    “So God created man in His own image, in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them.” (Genesis 1:27)
    Our actions should reflect respect for every person, regardless of their abilities or circumstances.
  2. Failure to Show Compassion
    Christ calls us to show compassion, especially to the vulnerable. In Matthew 25:40, Jesus teaches:
    “Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of Mine, you did for Me.”
    Instead of cruelty, Christians are called to be compassionate and kind.
  3. Lack of Self-Control and Love
    The Scriptures warn us about the importance of self-control and love. Galatians 5:22-23 states:
    “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control.”
    Acts of harassment and harm stem from a lack of these fruits. We must nurture them within ourselves.

The Lesson

This incident serves as a stark reminder of what it means to truly live out our faith. Christianity is not just about words; it’s about our actions—our respect, kindness, and the love we show to others.

How can we ensure we follow this path?

  • Treat everyone with dignity and respect, especially those who are vulnerable or different.
  • Show compassion and kindness in all our interactions.
  • Exercise self-control, resisting temptations to harm or belittle others.
  • Pray daily for a heart of love and the strength to act justly.

In Conclusion

Let us reflect on our actions and motivations. Are we demonstrating Christ’s love in our everyday lives? Remember Galatians 6:9-10:
“Let us not grow weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people…”

May we be inspired by Christ’s example to be kind, caring, and respectful—especially toward those most in need of love and compassion.

“Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” (Luke 6:31)

Heavenly Father,
Please soften the hearts of those who are cruel and callous. Convict them with Your love, and change their hearts to reflect Your kindness and mercy.
Transform them, Lord, and restore their compassion.
In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Posted in Uncategorized

What is the most important thing to carry with you all the time?

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

What is the most important thing to carry with you all the time?

The Most Important Thing I Carry with Me Every Day: My Faith in God

When someone asks me, “What is the most important thing to carry with you all the time?”, I don’t think of an object like my keys or phone. Instead, I think of something much deeper—my faith and belief in God.

For me, this faith is my constant companion. It’s what brings comfort during my pain,struggles and also joy in my victories. No matter what challenges I face—whether good or not so good—I truly believe that I am never alone. God is with me, guiding me every step of the way, even when life feels uncertain, unfair or difficult.

Never Alone in Life’s Ups and Downs

Life is full of unexpected twists and turns. Sometimes, I encounter hurdles that leave me feeling overwhelmed or unsure. But my faith reminds me that I don’t have to face these moments on my own. Scripture reassures me: “I will never leave you nor forsake you” (Hebrews 13:5). This promise gives me peace and reassurance that I carry deep in my heart every day.

When I’m walking through challenges, I lean into my belief that God’s presence is constant. It’s a comforting thought—that I’m not alone in my struggles, and I don’t have to carry the weight of everything myself.

Faith as My Source of Strength

My belief in God doesn’t mean I don’t feel pain or face difficulties. It means I choose to trust that He is with me, giving me strength and courage. Even when I feel weak, my faith reminds me that His grace is sufficient. It’s this trust that helps me stay hopeful, resilient, and motivated to keep moving forward.

Living with Faith

Having faith isn’t just something I hold onto in times of trouble—it’s a daily way of life. It influences how I see the world, how I react to situations, and how I interact with others. Knowing that God always has my back gives me peace and confidence every morning I wake up.

My Personal Reflection

For me, carrying my faith in God is like carrying a precious treasure; it sustains me, renews me, and keeps me grounded. It’s the one thing I know I can rely on no matter what life throws my way. And in holding onto that belief, I find the strength to face each day with hope and gratitude.

So for me

The most important thing I carry with me is my faith—my unwavering trust in God’s love and presence. It’s perhaps the greatest gift I have, guiding me through life’s journey and constantly reminding me that I am never truly alone.

I’ve experienced many moments when God’s presence was my solace and strength. When I was a battered wife in my first marriage, I felt His comfort and protection. When I was grieving the loss of my parents, God was right there with me, offering peace in my sorrow. When I suffered second-degree burns after a doctor gave me the wrong medication and I almost died, I knew God was with me, holding me through the pain. Even in a frightening moment in high school, when a group of jocks attacked me, God was with me—protected and ultimately rescuing me through a friend who drove by and saw what was happening.

God has been with me in every joyful milestone: the birth of my daughter and granddaughter, my marriage to my second husband, family holidays past and present and countless moments filled with laughter and love.

With God, you are NEVER alone. Your family and friends may love you, and they may say they are there for you, but sometimes life’s frustrations, misunderstandings, illness, or silent moments make you feel isolated. During those times, I turn to God. His presence reminds me that even when I feel all alone, I am never truly without His love.

No matter what life throws your way, hold onto your faith — it’s your strongest refuge and your greatest source of peace. Remember, with God by your side, you are never alone.

“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” — Philippians 4:13

Posted in Uncategorized

What Truly Makes a Good Marriage

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

A good marriage isn’t about finding a perfect partner—because no one is perfect. It’s about two imperfect people committed to each other, refusing to give up on each other through sickness, health, wealth, poverty, or any challenge that life throws their way. They don’t allow abuse of any kind especially physical in a relationship. They respect each other.

That’s holiness; that’s sanctity—choosing to love and communicate even in the hardest times, and standing firm together in faith.

When you step into an engagement or marriage, you are doing so before God Himself, declaring that this person is above all others, even above your career or worldly pursuits. But for a marriage to last, God must be the center. Without Him, the union will struggle to survive; with Him, it can thrive. You go to church together.

You cannot disrespect, cheat, or mistreat your fiancé or spouse and expect everlasting love. Forgiveness is essential, but repeated mistakes—especially in areas of addiction, abuse, or disloyalty—are signs that you may be unequally yoked. If your partner struggles with gambling, drinking, drugs, or unhealthy behaviors, and they aren’t seeking change, it’s wise to pause before making lifelong commitments.

If you’re a believer, dating someone who does not share your Christian values or belief in Christ , it may lead to difficulties in your marriage. Unequally yoked couples often face serious challenges because their foundational principles are different.They don’t share the same reverence for God, they may think they are above God. But many things in their life may happen to them that is their wake up call and they refuse to see the signs.

Scriptures to Guide Your Heart:

  • 2 Corinthians 6:14
    “Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers. For what partnership has righteousness with lawlessness? Or what fellowship has light with darkness?”
  • Ephesians 5:25
    “Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.”

Marriage is a lifelong journey built on Christ’s love, mutual respect, honesty, and faithfulness. Choose wisely, keep God at the center, and remember, true holiness is in loving each other as Christ loves us.

So if you have someone you don’t want to lose treat the right.

If the person you are it his not who you want to be linked to for a lifetime commitment look at the relationship before you marry.

God does not want you abused. If you are get help if you have addiction, abuse or narcissistic behaviors get help now.

A Prayer for All Married and Engaged Couples

Heavenly Father, we come before You today with humble hearts, lifting up all those who are married. I pray that You fill their hearts with Your love—so deep, so enduring—that they continue to love each other selflessly, putting You first in their relationship. May they cherish one another above all else, respecting, forgiving, and supporting each other through every challenge and blessing.

For those who are in marriages where they feel unequally yoked, Lord, I ask for Your healing and guidance. Break any chains of misunderstanding, resentment, or conflict. Restore their unity and help them to see Your plan for their marriage. Heal wounds, soften hardened hearts, and draw them into Your love.

For those engaged or contemplating marriage with someone who does not share their faith or values, I pray for Your divine insight. Open their eyes to see clearly, Lord—whether this relationship is aligned with Your will or if they need to wait and trust in Your perfect timing.

Lord, Your Word says in Proverbs 3:5-6, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.” We trust You to lead every couple on the path of righteousness and peace.

We ask all this in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.