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Good Friday Reflection:

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

The Greatest Act of LoveAs we gather to reflect on Good Friday, it’s a poignant time to meditate on the depth of Jesus’ love expressed through sacrifice. In John 15:13, we read, “Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.” This powerful verse encapsulates the essence of what Good Friday represents—the ultimate act of love through self-sacrifice.

The Core Message

At its heart, this scripture reveals that true love often requires significant sacrifice. By laying down His life, Jesus demonstrated the highest form of love—one that goes beyond mere words or gestures. It is a call to action, urging us to consider how we can show love to those around us by putting their needs before our own.

And the Context

This verse comes from a profound moment known as Jesus’ farewell discourse, where He imparts wisdom to His disciples prior to His crucifixion. He emphasizes the imperative of loving one another and remaining obedient to God’s commands. In these final moments, Jesus not only reassures His followers but also sets the stage for the greatest sacrifice in history.

Understanding “Friends”

When Jesus refers to His disciples as “friends,” He establishes a deep, intimate relationship with them. This term signifies more than companionship; it reflects a bond of loyalty and shared purpose. As followers of Christ, we are invited into this friendship, called to love others in the same way He loved us.

Application: Living Out the Love of Christ

Good Friday challenges us to examine our own lives and consider how we might embody this sacrificial love. Whether through acts of service, like volunteering, teaching gods word, random acts of kindness, or even personal sacrifice, we are reminded of our calling to care for others. Others means your family, friends and strangers.

Jesus’ life and death set the standard, urging us to prioritize the well-being of our family, and neighbors and friends. You don’t have to be rich to make them a priority, call them , check on them, if they are struggling help them.

Jesus and his willingness to give everything for humanity underscores our duty to reflect that love in our own actions. We are encouraged to reach out to those in need, stand up for justice, and serve selflessly, even when it is difficult.

The Crucifixion: A Moment of Surrender

In Luke 23:46, Jesus uttered the poignant words, “Father, into your hands I commit my spirit!” This moment of surrender beautifully encapsulates His obedience and trust in God’s plan. It serves as a reminder that surrendering to God is a powerful act of faith, especially in times of pain and uncertainty.

The Foundation of Our Faith

Several scriptures further illuminate the significance of Christ’s sacrifice.

  • 1 Peter 2:24 tells us, “He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness. By his wounds you have been healed.” This verse highlights how His suffering was for our benefit, offering us healing and redemption.
  • 1 Corinthians 15:3 proclaims, “Christ died for our sins in accordance with the Scriptures.” This reinforces the fulfillment of God’s promise throughout history.
  • John 3:16 famously states, “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” Here, we see the expansive reach of Jesus’ love, inviting all into relationship with Him.
  • Romans 5:8 echoes this sentiment, “But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” His love is unconditional, offered freely even when we fall short.
  • In John 19:30, as Jesus declared, “It is finished,” He confirmed the completion of His mission, paving the way for salvation.

A Call to Reflect

On this Good Friday, let us take a moment to reflect on the profound implications of Jesus’ sacrifice. How can we honor His love in our daily lives? How can we emulate the selflessness that He demonstrated? As we remember His journey to the cross, let’s commit ourselves to living out our faith through acts of love and service.

May this day inspire us to deepen our understanding of sacrifice—both His and our own—as we strive to be vessels of His love in the world. Happy Good Friday!

Make time to watch the movie about the crucifixion of Jesus .

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The Garden of Gethsemane

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

The Garden of Gethsemane, located in East Jerusalem, is an olive grove whose name means “a place of pressing.” It’s here where workers would place olives into a press and extract valuable olive oil under significant pressure. Before Jesus went to the cross and rose from the dead, He passed through this very garden. It was in Gethsemane that He felt immense distress, knowing the crucifixion awaited Him;

His sweat became like drops of blood as He expressed, “My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death” (Matthew 26:38). This was His moment of trial, a season of suffering that He had to endure.

In the stillness of Gethsemane, the devil sought to sway,
Whispering doubts and tempting Jesus to stray.
Yet amidst the anguish, His resolve held strong,
Choosing God’s will, He proved where we belong.

While we celebrate the resurrection, it’s crucial to recognize that the true victory was achieved in Gethsemane. It was here that Jesus chose not to give in, despite the impending betrayal, the unjust trial, the brutal beatings, the agony of the cross, and the weight of our sins. Under immense pressure, He made a pivotal decision: “Father, not My will but Your will be done” (Matthew 26:39). This shows us that real victory isn’t achieved in public; it’s forged in private moments. How we respond in our own Gethsemane—whether we are grappling with challenges, facing delays in our dreams, or enduring personal trials—is what truly matters.

The apostle Paul expressed, “I want to know Him and the power of His resurrection, and the fellowship of His sufferings” (Philippians 3:10). Resurrection cannot exist without some suffering. It requires a strong will, a determined mind, a warrior’s mentality: “I will not give in to complaining, blaming, doubting, or worrying. I know that beyond this suffering lies the power of the resurrection.” Beyond that struggle lies healing, abundance, divine connections, and new opportunities. The anguish and pressure we face are temporary; they do not define the conclusion of our story. Gethsemane is merely a season—a passage meant for us to experience so we can embrace the power, fullness, and abundance God has in store.

However, the enemy would love for us to become trapped in Gethsemane, questioning, “God, why? Why did this door close? Why is this taking so long?” Doubts about our families or jobs may creep in, just as the devil attempted to exploit Jesus’ moment of vulnerability, trying to persuade Him toward despair. Yet Jesus stood strong, even faced with His imminent death.

You cannot reach your destiny without experiencing pressure, feeling squeezed, or hearing thoughts that suggest things won’t work out and that God has forgotten you. Your very feelings of pressure are indicators that a resurrection is on the horizon.

You wouldn’t be in Gethsemane if something extraordinary wasn’t imminent—doors opening that you never imagined, business opportunities finding you, the right people entering your life, and healing from situations that seem impossible. It’s essential to keep doing the right thing, especially during tough times, because soon enough, you will witness the power of the resurrection!

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Death to old Self Starts the Moment of Our Salvation -We are Born Again

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

Death to self occurs at the moment of salvation , we are “born again” its when we are crucified with Christ, as stated in Romans 6:6. 

At this point, we receive a new nature because the Holy Spirit comes to dwell within us (John 14:17). 

However, sometimes it takes time for us to willingly make sacrifices. 

If you can recall, there are times when you might be in a pickle and you start praying. Oh Lord, if you just help me out, I will go to church or oh Lord, if you get me out of the situation or change my ways , or Lord if you let me survive, I will do better …..and then you come out of that pickle ; you get out of that jam and you survive the situation were in and then you don’t follow through

So we’re really not ready to sacrifice everything to grow closer to God. You haven’t followed through even though God followed through. We must stop acting as if God grants us wishes he is not a genie. He is your Lord and you should be obedient or at least follow through and keep your word.

When we truly value what God has given us, we can experience the freedom He intends for us. Jesus’ purpose is to shape us into His likeness, as outlined in Romans 8:29. 

But to fulfill this calling, we must be willing to place Christ in a prominent position in our lives. That means put him above everything and everyone else above your self and your significant other your parents your children, friends, money …everything .

This means that the Lord calls  us to the cross on a daily basis. 

 and lay down anything that distracts us from serving and following Him. 

It’s important to understand that God isn’t asking us to give up everything so we see ourselves as lonely or poor. 

Instead, laying down our treasures—whether they are possessions, relationships, or dreams—at the foot of the cross frees us from worldly attachments. You don’t want to worship money, things, you don’t want to brag about how much money you have , you don’t want to brag about who you gave $ to , you are to give quietly. Don’t throw money at a junkie you’re not helping him. Don’t throw money at people using you give to those who you know lives could be better by your help. A single parent raising kids, battered women, veterans living with ptsd, elderly who struggle to have food and medicine. Surprise someone with a car not a new car but a used one. If a woman’s or man is driving a 1980 Toyota that body looks like Swiss cheese maybe get them a 2000 Toyota or a something better they will be just as grateful. Pay a persons medical bill ease their burden, do good with what you have , if your broke volunteer , help in other ways. but don’t idolize it ! we must release these things, so our self-esteem no longer depends on them, and our sense of acceptance comes from being complete in the Lord. As Paul said, we are alive in God through Jesus Christ (Romans 6:11).

We must be a blessing to others but we should never worship fame and money more than we do our God.

When we idolize money it ourself it sets us up for the devil to slide in to convince you you are better than God

Your not.

So when you are saved you start to put God first and you will begin to grow.

Peace.

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Sunday Prayer

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

Dear Lord,
Thank You for this beautiful Sunday morning, a new beginning adorned with Your grace. I am truly grateful for Your boundless love and for the gift of Your Son, Jesus, who sacrificed everything for me. Guide me today through Your Holy Spirit, filling me with the courage to face challenges and the wisdom to walk in Your ways. May my heart remain light, my actions be filled with kindness, and my faith steadfast, trusting that You hold my future in Your hands. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Daytona Beach 2025

Sunday is a time for reflection and worship. Rejoice in the Lord and remember that His mercies are new every morning. Thank you for your Grace.

Today your heart be filled with hope and gratitude.

Ephesians 2:8–9

For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them. 

By grace refers to God’s favor upon those who have transgressed his law and sinned against him. But grace may also be understood as a “power” in these verses. God’s grace not only offers salvation but also secures it. Saved refers to deliverance from God’s wrath at the final judgment (Rom. 5:9); “by grace you have been saved” is repeated from Eph. 2:5 for emphasis. The verb form for “have been saved” (Gk. sesōsmenoi, perfect tense) communicates that the Christian’s salvation is fully secured. through faith.Faith is a confident trust and reliance upon Christ Jesus and is the only means by which one can obtain salvation. this. The Greek pronoun is neuter, while “grace” and “faith” are feminine. Accordingly, “this” points to the whole process of “salvation by grace through faith” as being the gift of God and not something that we can accomplish ourselves. This use of the neuter pronoun to take in the whole of a complex idea is quite common in Greek (e.g., 6:1); its use here makes it clear that faith, no less than grace, is a gift of God. Salvation, therefore, in every respect, is not your own doing.

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Reflections on Ash Wednesday: Finding Peace and Kindness in a Hectic World

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

Ash Wednesday A sacred time of prayer, reflection, and preparation for the joy of Easter. This day reminds us of our mortality and calls us to turn inward, focusing on repentance and renewal. It’s a gentle nudge to refocus our spiritual lives and embrace the teachings of Christ as we embark on this six-week journey of penitence.

Growing up in a Catholic school, I remember the profound impact that attending church every morning had on me. The first moments of each day were dedicated to worship, fostering a connection with God that still resonates within me. My heart was often moved by the Stations of the Cross, where each moment of Jesus’ journey resonated deeply. While many may have gone through the motions, I found myself lost in gratitude, contemplating the sacrifices made for us all.

Yet, my path through Catholic school was not without its challenges. I confess, I was no angel. As I navigated the halls with a mouth that sometimes overflowed with sass, I often found myself at odds with authority figures. A pivotal moment for me was when a stranger chased me near my home, Thank God I knew where to run and get away, but it was an experience that shattered my childhood belief in the goodness of adults. From that point on, I struggled to respect those I perceived as “elders.”

In my younger years, interactions with nuns and Monsignors often felt less like guidance and more like punishment. Their methods could be harsh, and the emotional scars lingered far longer than the actual reprimands. I remember an instance vividly: arriving at an early mass unknowingly conducted in Polish. Despite feeling a sense of God’s presence, I was met with disdain rather than understanding. Instead of being encouraged in my efforts, I faced criticism for not knowing the language. At times, it felt like the ceremony was marred by the drama that came with it.

I often pondered what Jesus would say to me during those difficult moments. I believed He would offer understanding, compassion, and reassurance that everything would be okay. Over time, my disillusionment pushed me away from the Catholic faith. However, as I grew older and encountered kinder souls, I found my way back to the church, albeit at my own pace, sometimes attending services at non-denominational congregations.

Today, on Ash Wednesday, I encourage each of us to reflect on our actions and strive to be better individuals. In a world often filled with hate and selfishness, let us choose kindness. The teachings of Jesus remind us of the power of love and compassion, urging us to uplift one another rather than tear each other down.

The Stations of the Cross serve as an incredible guide for reflection—not just on Christ’s journey but on our own. Each station calls us to consider our lives, the pain we endure, and the beauty we can create through acts of love and service. Remembering these stations helps to ground us and keeps our hearts open to empathy.

As we embark on this Lenten season, let us commit to seeking peace in our hearts and extending that peace to others. May this Ash Wednesday inspire us to rise above the noise, cherishing moments of calm and reflection.

Wishing you all a blessed, peaceful day filled with joy and love. Let us go forth, inspired and connected, striving to make the world a little brighter, one act of kindness at a time.

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To those who have lost a pet

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

🌈❤️ From the moment we are all born, our days are numbered—whether we are human, animal, or mammal. As pet owners, we are truly privileged to love our furry companions for however long they are with us on this Earth. God has entrusted us with their care, and in return, they fill our lives with joy, loyalty, and unconditional love.

When the time comes for our beloved pets to pass away or when they receive a difficult diagnosis, it’s never easy. The love we show them during these trying times is a reflection of the depth of our character and our capacity to care. It’s a testament to the bond we’ve built, a bond that transcends time and space.

It’s important to remember that our pets go to heaven just like people do. They are waiting for us, filled with love and joy in God’s presence. They understand that we need time to grieve, but they wouldn’t want us to linger in sadness. Now free of pain and disease, your pet wants you to find comfort knowing they are healed and happy. They cherish the life you gave them, full of love, play, and warmth for many beautiful years.

As you navigate through this journey, take solace in these comforting words from Scripture:

“The righteous care for the needs of their animals…” – Proverbs 12:10

“For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers… will be able to separate us from the love of God.” – Romans 8:38-39

Let these verses remind you that love knows no bounds. One day, we will be reunited with our beloved pets, and until then, they live on in our hearts, guiding us to smile again.

Take your time to grieve, but remember—their spirit wishes for you to embrace life, to find joy once more, and to know that you have given them an extraordinary life filled with love. 🌟🐾

With all my heart, I send my love to you and your cherished companions. 💖



A Message from Your Dog Angel
In the quiet moments, where memories dwell,
I wag my tail, with stories to tell.
From a crowd of many, Mom you chose me with care,
Oh, how blessed I was—your love, has been beyond compare.
Thank you, dear mom, for the life that you chose to give me you picked me out of so many. You know God put us together.
And to my good dad, who made our home adventurous and brave.
We all traveled the world, side by side, hand in paw,
Creating adventures that filled me with joy and awe.
Please don’t grieve long; I want you to know,
Live life , let your spirits still glow.
Both of you go back to your work, let joy lead the way,
For I’ll be right here, watching over you each day.
In my final moments, you held me so tight,
Thank you for being my comfort, my light.
Now I’m a dog angel, soaring so free,
God gave me a job welcoming others pets, who also crossed over so excited God picked me!
No more pain to bear, just sunshine and play,
Chasing the rainbows, in a blissful ballet.
I’ll love you forever, in all that you do,
For my heart is forever intertwined with you.
So keep me alive in your laughter and cheer,
Know that I’m with you, always so near.
One day we’ll reunite, under skies bright and clear,
Until then, my beloveds, I hold you both dear.





From the Heavens Above
In a sunny spot where the soft winds play,
We purr and we chirp in our heavenly sway.
Thank you, dear owner, for love so profound,
In your warm embrace, we felt bliss abound.With gentle paws and feathers so light,
We dance in the stars, a beautiful sight.
Though we’ve soared past the clouds, our hearts remain near,
Forever your companions, we hold you so dear.




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Embracing Grace: A Reflection on Psalm 100:1-5 and 1 Corinthians 15:57-58

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

As we step into a new day, I find solace in the words of Psalm 100:1-5, which read:

  1. Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth!
  2. Serve the Lord with gladness; come into his presence with singing.
  3. Know that the Lord, he is God! It is he who made us, and we are his; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.
  4. Enter his gates with thanksgiving, and his courts with praise! Give thanks to him; bless his name.
  5. For the Lord is good; his steadfast love endures forever, and his faithfulness to all generations.

In these verses, we are reminded of the importance of gratitude and joy in our relationship with God. Each line calls us to acknowledge His greatness, to serve Him with gladness, and to enter His presence with a heart full of praise. Today, I want to reflect on what it means to embrace this truth in my life.

A Heart of Service and Gratitude

Lord, help me to serve You wholeheartedly. I surrender my life and invite the Holy Spirit to guide my thoughts, actions, and decisions. There is something transformative about acknowledging God’s grace and the profound impact it has on our lives. When I think about the moments I felt lost or overwhelmed, I am reminded of the incredible truth that my worth is not defined by my circumstances but by His unwavering love.

I feel Your presence surrounding me, a supernatural comfort amidst the chaos. Your grace is truly amazing—unmerited favor that rescues me from despair and lifts my spirit. Thank You for saving me and restoring my hope. In moments when I felt like giving up, You never abandoned me. Instead, You walked alongside me, bringing light into my darkest hours.

Releasing the Need for the Supernatural

In a world where many seek guidance from psychics or fortune tellers, I find peace in knowing that I only need You, Lord. In You, I have everything I could possibly desire; You are my guiding star. My trust rests solely in Your hands. The distractions of this world cannot compare to the certainty and clarity that comes from seeking Your will.

To You, I will give all glory because it is through Your strength that I have overcome challenges and trials. Thank You for helping and rescuing me, showing me that I am never alone. Even when I felt trapped in depression, Your love became my lifeline, pulling me back to solid ground.

The Assurance of Victory in Christ

As I reflect further, 1 Corinthians 15:57-58 resonates profoundly: “But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain.”

What an empowering reminder! Through Christ, we are assured victory. My experiences, my fears, my struggles—they are all part of a greater plan. I can stand firm, knowing that my efforts to serve and glorify God are fruitful. Even when the journey feels arduous, every step forward counts as part of a divine purpose.

Living in Praise

As I close this reflection, I encourage you to join me in making a joyful noise to the Lord. Let’s serve Him with gladness and celebrate His love and faithfulness. Let us enter His gates with thanksgiving, embracing the grace that sustains us.

Today, let’s commit our lives to Him, trusting in His provision and guidance, allowing His Spirit to fill us with joy and purpose. Together, let’s shine the light of His love into a world that desperately needs it. Amen.

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Psalm 25 Eyes On The Lord

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

Today, I want to talk about the meaning of Psalm 25 verse 15

The verse says, “My eyes are always on the Lord, for He will rescue me from danger” (Psalm 25:15).

In the New Testament, nets were commonly used by fishermen on the Sea of Galilee (see John 21:11). However, in the Old Testament, nets often symbolize traps set by enemies. They are usually mentioned in the context of capturing unsuspecting victims.

What’s interesting about this psalm is that instead of focusing on the ground to avoid falling into a trap set by enemies, the psalmist chooses to keep his eyes on the Lord.

By doing so, he trusts that God will protect him from these snares (as expressed in Psalm 91:3, which speaks about being delivered from traps).

This doesn’t mean we shouldn’t be cautious or wise in our lives; because human beings even christians can be wicked or deceiving, so never out your trust in a human only on God it means that our primary source of safety and guidance is God.

Just as servants look to their masters for help, we should look to the Lord for our needs (as stated in Psalm 123:2).

So, let’s start and end each day by reminding ourselves to focus on the Lord, working for the Lord and trusting that He is our shield and protector.

If God is wise enough to create both me and the world around me, then He is more than capable of looking out for me.

When you feel trapped or betrayed

Feeling trapped—much like a fish caught in a net—can evoke frustration, especially when it seems that others manipulate situations for their own gain, even while masquerading as good people. Navigating this kind of emotional turmoil, particularly when dealing with individuals who hide their true intentions behind a facade of faithfulness, requires both introspection and strategic action. Here’s how to break it down further

Recognizing Your Feeling

Self-Reflection: Take time to identify and validate the feelings of frustration, betrayal, or confusion. Journaling can help you articulate your emotions and explore why you feel trapped.

Understand the Situation: Reflect on specific instances where you felt manipulated or deceived. What were the red flags? Understanding these patterns can clarify your feelings and enhance your awareness.

Shifting Focus

Connect Spiritually: Engage in prayer or meditation. Ask for guidance and clarity regarding your situation. This helps in reaffirming your identity and grounding yourself amidst chaos.

Set Boundaries: When you recognize the motivations of those around you, establish clear boundaries to protect your mental and emotional well-being. It’s okay to limit your interactions if you feel drained by deceitful behavior.

Seeking Support

Talk to Trusted Friends

Surround yourself with people who understand your values and can offer encouragement. Share your experiences with them, focusing on how they make you feel rather than making accusations against others.

Find a Mentor: Consider seeking advice from someone who has been through similar situations or who embodies the integrity you admire. Their perspective can help you stay grounded

Taking Action

Focus on Your Own Character: Keep working hard, remaining honest and fair. These qualities will not go unnoticed, even if the immediate results aren’t visible.

Address Deceit Tactically: If you must confront someone who is being disingenuous, do so calmly and without accusation. Use “I” statements to express your feelings and observations rather than attacking their character

Document Your Experiences: If you feel like you’re being targeted or unfairly treated, keeping records of your interactions can provide clarity and serve as evidence should you decide to address issues formally, whether in the workplace or other environments

Maintaining Hope

Practice Compassion: Recognize that some people may act out of their insecurities or past traumas. While this does not excuse their behavior, understanding their motivations can help you detach from their actions.

Trust in Divine Justice: Hold on to the belief that truth and integrity have their rewards. Have faith that those who act dishonestly will face consequences—whether now or later.

Cultivate Joy in Your Journey: Engage in activities that fulfill you outside the context of these relationships or struggles. Pursue hobbies, volunteer, or spend time with positive influences to rebuild your spirit.

Remember when dealing with manipulative individuals requires resilience and self-awareness. While it’s challenging to stand firm in your values when confronted by those who exploit faith for their gain, remember to prioritize your integrity and well-being. The journey may be arduous, but staying true to yourself will ultimately lead to greater fulfillment and clearer paths in life.

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The Unique Chill of Florida: Finding Gratitude Amidst Arthritis

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

As I sit here contemplating the chill in the air, I can’t help but reflect on how the cold feels so different here in Florida compared to the frigid temperatures up north. A mere 40 degrees feels like 30 when the ocean breezes sweep through, wrapping around me like a relentless reminder of my osteoarthritis and the osteonecrosis that commands much of my daily life. The stiffness in my joints and the ache in my bones seem to intensify, reminding me of my ongoing battle with spondylolisthesis.

Yet, amidst this discomfort, there’s a peculiar beauty in these cooler days. While the temperature may bite, it invites a sense of stillness and reflection. For many, it’s a time to bundle up, sip hot cocoa, and enjoy the warmth of family and friends. As I feel the briskness in the air, I am reminded to find gratitude, even on days when my body feels heavy with pain.

In moments like these, I remind myself of the power of perspective. There is beauty in the quiet mornings of winter, the way the sun shines a little brighter against the crisp blue sky. I am grateful for these cool days, as they contrast beautifully with the sweltering heat of summer, offering a reprieve that nurtures the soul.

“This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.” – Psalm 118:24.

No matter where we are—whether battling the bone-chilling cold or soaking in the warmth of the sun—we are alive and given another chance to experience all of life’s wonders. Each day offers us new opportunities for joy, love, and thanks.

It’s essential to acknowledge our struggles, but just as important to embrace the moments of gratitude. Today, I am thankful for the resilience I’ve developed in the face of health challenges. My experiences have forged a depth of character that enriches my interactions with those around me.

Another verse that resonates deeply with me is:

“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” – Romans 8:28.

This scripture serves as a reminder that even in our trials, there is a greater purpose at work. The cold may bring pain, but it also encourages reflection, growth, and appreciation for the good things in life—like the taste of a warm meal shared with loved ones or the comfort found in a cozy blanket.

So as we continue to navigate the changing seasons, let us find reasons to express our gratitude, even in the midst of our own personal storms. Today, I choose to celebrate the cool weather, cherish the beautiful day, and find comfort in my faith. I hope you can do the same, no matter where life takes you.

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New Year, New Goals: A Journey of Faith and Kindness

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

As we stand on the brink of a new year, it’s a perfect time to reflect on the past and set intentions for the future.

The start of a new year is often accompanied by excitement and hope, as we contemplate the possibilities ahead. This year, let’s commit to deepening our relationship with God by reading our Bibles daily, embracing obedience to His word, and showing kindness and forgiveness to those around us.

Setting the Goal to Read Your Bible Daily

In this fast-paced world, carving out time for daily Bible reading can feel challenging, but it’s essential for spiritual growth and understanding God’s plan for our lives. By dedicating time each day to immerse ourselves in Scripture, we allow God’s Word to shape our thoughts and actions.

Consider setting a specific time each day—whether it’s in the morning to start your day with purpose or in the evening to reflect and unwind.

You might choose a reading plan that guides you through specific books of the Bible or themes, making it easier to stay consistent. Remember, it doesn’t have to be lengthy; even a few verses can make a significant impact if meditated upon.

Embracing Obedience as an Expression of Love

Obedience to God’s commandments is not just about following rules; it’s an expression of our love for Him. Jesus said in John 14:15, “If you love me, keep my commands.” As we read the Bible regularly, we gain insight into His teachings and how they apply to our lives. This year, let’s strive to be obedient Christians, living out our faith in tangible ways.

Obedience also means listening to the Holy Spirit’s prompting in our hearts whether it’s reaching out to someone in need, standing up for justice, or simply sharing a kind word. Our actions reflect our faith, and through obedience, we can be vessels of God’s love in a world that desperately needs it.

Showing Kindness and Forgiveness

Kindness is one of the most beautiful expressions of our faith. In Galatians 5:22-23, the fruits of the Spirit are outlined, with kindness being a crucial attribute. As we enter this new year, let’s make a conscious effort to show kindness to those around us, whether through small acts of service or simply offering a listening ear.

Equally important is the call to forgive. Holding onto grudges and past hurts only weighs us down and hinders our spiritual growth. Ephesians 4:32 encourages us to “Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.” This year, let go of any resentment and embrace forgiveness as a gift—not just to others, but to yourself.

Moving Forward with Purpose

As we welcome the new year, let’s carry these goals in our hearts: to read our Bibles daily, to obey God’s commands, and to embody kindness and forgiveness. By nurturing our relationship with God and reflecting His love in our actions, we can make a meaningful impact in our own lives and the lives of those around us.

May this year be filled with spiritual growth, joy, and the rewarding journey of becoming more like Christ. Happy New Year! Let’s step forward together in faith, hope, and love.