Tag: Blessed

Posted in Joyful-Echoes.com, Life

Embracing the Journey: Reflections on Life’s Swift Changes

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

Time, like a swift river, carries us through the currents of life, shaping our experiences and molding our existence. It’s astonishing to ponder the journey from elementary school, junior high,high school to becoming a mom, grandmother and now that granddaughter is in her 20s. I think how things change especially when looking back at the technological leaps and personal transformations. In this blog post, we’ll explore the marvels of time, the rapid evolution of technology, and the wisdom that comes with growing older.

The Speed of Life

Life’s pace seems to quicken as we age. From the innocent days of high school to witnessing the growth of our children and becoming grandparents, the whirlwind of time leaves us in awe.

Quote “Time flies over us, but leaves its shadow behind.” – Nathaniel Hawthorne.

Technological Time Travel

Reflecting on the technological timeline is a journey in itself—from black-and-white TVs to handheld computers.

Quote “ Technology is anything that wasn’t around when you were born.” – Alan Kay.

As we navigated through AM/FM radios, record players, cassettes, CDs, and the emergence of social media, the evolution is a testament to the unstoppable march of progress.

Lessons from the Past

Amidst the changing landscapes, it’s essential to cherish the memories, values, and lessons learned.

Quote” Do not regret growing older. It is a privilege denied to many.” – Unknown.

Embrace the nostalgia, but also celebrate the growth, wisdom, and the adventures that lie ahead.

A Biblical Perspective

Turning to the Bible, Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 reminds us of the appointed seasons in life—a time for everything under the heavens. “To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven.” Ecclesiastes 3:1.

Embrace the Present

Life is a fleeting gift, and as we traverse its ever-changing landscape, the key is to savor the present.

Quote “You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream.” – C.S. Lewis.

Work hard, live fully, and extend a helping hand to others. The richness of life lies in the moments we create and the impact we have on those around us.

In conclusion, let’s navigate the river of time with gratitude, embracing the past, present, and future. As we grow older, may we find joy in the journey, wisdom in our experiences, and fulfillment in the lives we touch.

Have a Blessed Day

Posted in Blessed, Blogging, Family, Uncategorized

Cherishing the Blessing of a Good Husband: A Personal Reflection

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

Hello everyone,

I wanted to take a moment to share my thoughts, particularly with all the wonderful women out there who, like me, are fortunate to have an amazing husband, partner, or significant other. This is my second chance at love, and I feel truly blessed to have found someone special. Despite being an ordained minister, I’m only human, and life’s stresses can sometimes take their toll.

There are moments when I, too, falter—times when frustration and impatience and yes even anger at a specific situation has crept in. Yet, I am grateful to have a Christian husband by my side, a man who embodies qualities of patience and kindness, softer spoken, not loud, mean or arrogant. It’s a reminder that even those of us who strive to spread love and understanding can stumble.

I want to emphasize the importance of taking a pause in our busy lives to truly appreciate the good people around us, especially a supportive partner. In my case, it’s a husband who stands by me with unwavering patience and kindness. It’s easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of life, but moments of reflection help us recognize the love and support we’re surrounded by.

Let’s make a conscious effort to cherish those who bring positivity into our lives. Whether it’s a husband, boyfriend, significant other, or partner, they contribute to our well-being in ways both big and small. Today, I encourage you all to take a moment to express gratitude and love for the wonderful individuals who make our journeys richer.

He makes cookies with me and makes a great birthday cake.

He works hard most of the time too hard.

Growing old with your best friend and life partner is a journey that unveils the true beauty of companionship. There’s something profoundly special about finding that person who not only understands you but embraces you—flaws and all. My heart swells with gratitude as I reflect on the incredible bond I share with my husband.

In the tapestry of life, the threads of our connection have woven a story of acceptance and love. There’s a unique joy in realizing that someone sees you, truly sees you, and loves you for everything you are. The quirks, imperfections, and idiosyncrasies become endearing aspects of a shared history.

To have a partner who not only tolerates but celebrates your uniqueness is a rare and beautiful gift. It’s the comfort of being yourself without fear of judgment—a sanctuary of love where both strengths and weaknesses are acknowledged and cherished.

As the years pass, this journey of growing old together becomes a testament to the strength of our connection. We navigate the highs and lows hand in hand, finding solace in the familiarity of each other’s presence. There’s a certain magic in having a front-row seat to witness the evolution of a relationship, deepening with time like a fine wine.

My husband is amazing

In moments of joy and in times of challenge, my husband stands by my side, and I by his. The shared laughter and the shared tears become the mortar that fortifies the foundation of our companionship. It’s a partnership built on understanding, respect, and unwavering support.

So, here’s to growing old with the one who knows the melody of your heart. Here’s to the quiet moments and the shared adventures. And most importantly, here’s to accepting and embracing each other—flaws and all. I am immensely grateful for the gift of a lifelong companion, for a journey that continues to unfold, and for a love that only deepens with the passage of time.

Wishing everyone a day filled with appreciation and warmth.

Deb

P/s

Love you Tom

Posted in Uncategorized

Embrace life’s simplicity and break free from unnecessary seriousness

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

Embrace life’s simplicity and break free from unnecessary seriousness. If something feels amiss, take action—don’t overcomplicate. I believe in proactive living, steering clear of stagnation. If a situation persists, I choose serenity by distancing myself. This philosophy applies to relationships, careers, friendships, and more. Our existence is meant for joy, not suffering.

Life doesn’t need to be so complex we make it that way.

I am happy with a decent roof over my head a good meal and surrounded by people I enjoy and who enjoy me.

Not a fan of drama or always complaining, sometimes I get off track but soon bring myself back to center by reading my Bible.

Find solace in the Bible, cherish family moments, relish good meals, and savor fresh air. Bid farewell to defeatism; cultivate a positive mindset. Here are two uplifting Bible verses and a daily positive quote:

  1. “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!” – Philippians 4:4
  2. “The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and he helps me.” – Psalm 28:7

Positive quote for the day: “Optimism is the faith that leads to achievement. Nothing can be done without hope and confidence.” – Helen Keller

Posted in Uncategorized

The reality that there is both light and darkness around us at all times.

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

“May you be strengthened with all power, according to his glorious might, for all endurance and patience with joy, giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in light. He has delivered us from the domain of darkness and transferred us to the kingdom of his beloved Son, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.”

This passage from Colossians emphasizes the transformation that occurs when we turn from darkness to light through our faith in Jesus Christ. It reminds us that as believers, we have been rescued from the domain of darkness and are now part of God’s kingdom of light. We are called to walk as children of light, as Ephesians 5:8 also emphasizes.

As we navigate the dualities of light and darkness in this world, let us remember that God’s desire is to shape us into reflections of His Son, Jesus, and to fill us with His glorious light. In our pursuit of the light, may we find endurance, patience, and joy, giving thanks for the forgiveness of our sins and the inheritance we share with the saints in light.

Let us be encouraged to open our eyes and see the glorious light before us each day, and to let it guide our steps and actions as we walk in faith.

Posted in Blogging, Uncategorized

Biblical Inspiration for Bloggers: Unveiling God’s Guidance for Your Blogging Journey

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

Are there bible verses for bloggers? Absolutely! The Bible is a treasure trove of wisdom and inspiration for every facet of a blogger’s life. We all desire to align our work with God’s purpose, whether we’re delving into style, entertaining, travel, or any other niche. If you seek divine encouragement for your blogging journey, let’s explore seven Bible verses that resonate with bloggers—words from the very first Creator!

  1. Psalm 37:23-24: “The Lord guides the steps of the faithful and takes delight in their daily lives. Even if they stumble, they will not fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand.”
  2. Ephesians 6:7: “Work with zeal as if you’re working for the Lord, not merely for people.”

God calls us all to lead a purpose-driven life, extending to how we spend our days and what we write, regardless of the topic. Can you blog about a recipe or a DIY project and still blog with purpose? Absolutely! We can blog to inspire, encourage, teach, and bless others, irrespective of the subject matter. The Lord promises to guide our paths and takes joy in every detail of our lives, including our passions. Writing with purpose starts with seeking the Lord’s plan for your life’s work. Remembering the ‘why’ behind what you do and maintaining a single-minded focus are vital. The blogging world is filled with distractions, but staying on the path God has laid out for you is paramount.

  1. Ephesians 2:10: “For we are God’s masterpiece, created anew in Christ Jesus to do the good things He planned for us long ago.”

God, the ultimate Creator, has blessed you with the gift of creativity to share with others. As a blogger, you may have days when ideas flow endlessly, and others when doubts creep in. In those moments, take solace in the fact that God calls you His masterpiece. He crafted you to do good things with the unique gifts He bestowed upon you. There’s no need to compare yourself to other bloggers; instead, focus on creating in line with His guidance. When you feel stuck, trust that the great Creator will provide the creativity you need.

  1. 1 Peter 4:10, 11: “God has given each of you a gift from His diverse spiritual gifts. Use them to serve one another with the strength and energy He supplies. By doing so, everything you do will bring glory to God through Jesus Christ.”
  2. 1 Thessalonians 5:11: “Encourage and uplift one another, just as you are already doing.”

Every woman craves encouragement, and we believe the Lord has called us, including you, to be sources of encouragement! Think about it this way: whether you’re writing about a project, a recipe, style, or travel, you have the power to inspire and uplift others. Since starting my blog in August 2014, I’ve been pleasantly surprised by the support I’ve received from fellow bloggers. I, in turn, aim to comment on and share the posts of those who inspire me. Let’s cheer each other on in this blogging journey!

  1. James 3:17-18: “God’s wisdom is pure, peaceful, gentle, and readily available to help those in distress and to do good for others. It’s always fair and honest. Those who promote peace in a gentle manner sow a harvest of righteousness.”
  2. James 1:5: “If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and He will grant it.”

I yearn for God’s wisdom in everything I do. The verses above remind me why it’s crucial to seek His wisdom daily. Rather than relying on my own wisdom, I desire the Lord’s. His wisdom is peaceful, gentle, and ready to help those in need, a stark contrast to the turmoil of self-reliance. The Lord reveals the characteristics of His wisdom and how to obtain it. There’s no need to work longer hours, read more books, or follow fleeting trends. All we need to do is ask our generous God, and He willingly imparts it. What a reassuring thought! This knowledge frees us to create and write with divine wisdom as our guide.

Have you ever sought God’s word for inspiration in your blogging journey? If so, please share your experiences in the comments below!

Posted in Blogging, Joyful-Echoes.com, Monday

Embracing Happy Magnificent Mondays: A Personal Reflection

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

Happy Magnificent Monday, everyone! As the new work week dawns upon many us, I find myself filled with a sense of gratitude and purpose. It’s a day that sets the tone for the rest of the week, and I want to share some thoughts and inspirations with you all.

In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, it’s easy to get caught up in the routine of work, responsibilities, and the never-ending to-do lists. But as we embark on this new week, I’m reminded of the importance of dedicating our efforts to a higher purpose, a purpose that transcends the tasks on our desks.

One Bible verse that has always resonated with me and guides my approach to Mondays and every day is Colossians 3:23 (NIV): “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.” This verse serves as a beautiful reminder that our work should be an offering to the divine, and it encourages us to give our very best, pouring our hearts into our endeavors.

But it’s not just about working diligently; it’s also about cultivating a spirit of gratitude. Practicing gratitude can transform our outlook on life. Even on the busiest Mondays, take a moment to count your blessings, big and small. Gratitude helps us find joy in the little things and appreciates the journey we’re on.

In addition to dedicating our work to a higher purpose and embracing gratitude, let’s also make an effort to be kind to others, especially strangers. We never truly know the battles someone else may be fighting, and a simple act of kindness can make a world of difference in their day. Kindness is a ripple effect; it not only brightens someone else’s life but also brings a sense of fulfillment to our own.

To encapsulate the spirit of Happy Magnificent Monday, I’d like to share a positive quote for the day: “Your work is going to fill a large part of your life, and the only way to be truly satisfied is to do what you believe is great work. And the only way to do great work is to love what you do.” – Steve Jobs

So, as we embark on this week, let’s remember to work for a higher purpose, embrace gratitude, and spread kindness wherever we go. Let’s make this Happy Magnificent Monday the start of a remarkable week filled with purpose and positivity. Have a blessed day, my friends!

Posted in Blessed, Blogging, Grateful, Hope, Uncategorized

A new purpose

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

There in a small town called Harmonyville, there lived a woman named Deb, She had faced numerous challenges and struggles and pain, from being a battered woman survivor, survives 1am 2 degree burns from a medication that was prescribed in error,and many other things happened in her life but she had always managed to find a way to overcome them and embrace new opportunities.

After living with chronic joint pain from osteoarthritis for over two decades, Deb found herself unable to continue working as an apprentice optician. She was diagnosed with 2 more bone and joint issues osteonecrosis and spondylolisthesis , and 3 blood clot disorders. It was a difficult decision to make, as she loved helping people with their vision, but her health had taken a toll on her ability to perform the physical demands of the job. So she was medically retired (disabled) .

Rather than allowing her circumstances to define her, Deb had to go on disability and this made her depressed so she began studying the Bible on her own and found it confusing at times and so she a few months later decided to embark on a new chapter of her life. She enrolled in Bible classes and theology courses, driven by her deep faith and desire to spread the good word. Little did she know that this path would lead her to an unexpected calling.

As she dived deeper into her studies, Deb discovered her knack for writing and storytelling. She realized that she could make the teachings of the Bible more understandable she made narratives and inspiring stories. With her gift for words, she started a blog where she shared biblical stories, adding her own unique touch to captivate her readers.

Deb’s stories were filled with faith , hope, love, and redemption. They offered a refreshing perspective, focusing on the positive aspects of life rather than the constant stream of bad news and horror stories that seemed to dominate the media. Her words resonated with people from all walks of life; they inspired them to explore their faith, seek understanding, and find solace in the teachings of the Bible.

Though some questioned her decision to pursue this path, Deb remained steadfast in her belief that women had a valuable role to play in spreading the message of love and compassion. She dedicated herself to breaking down gender barriers, encouraging others to embrace their spiritual gifts and share them with the world. She understood t

Over time, Deb’s blog gained a loyal following, and her stories became widely read and cherished. People were drawn to the warmth and sincerity of her words, finding comfort in the stories she shared. Through her writing, Deb created a community of like-minded individuals who sought to live by the principles of kindness, empathy, and understanding.

Deb’s journey from apprentice optician, to medically retired to pt as a customer service representative turned minister and blogger storyteller was not an easy one. It required strength, resilience, and an unwavering belief in herself. But through her trials, she discovered her true purpose: to spread the good word and inspire others through the power of storytelling. Still living with chronic pain.

And so, every day, Deb continued to write, weaving tales that touched hearts and transformed lives. Her stories carried a message of hope and reminded people that even in the darkest of times, faith could guide them towards light. Through her Bible blogs and storytelling, Deb created a legacy of love, encouraging others to find their own unique ways of making a positive impact on the world.

And as her words traveled far and wide, the spirit of compassion and understanding flourished, reminding everyone that sometimes, the most extraordinary journeys begin with the smallest acts of courage.

Posted in Faith, Hope, Uncategorized

Do you treat your Bible like your cellphone ?

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

There is no doubt that in today’s fast-paced world, technology has become an integral part of our lives. Our cell phones have become a constant companion that we cannot imagine living without, but what about the Bible? The Bible, which contains the word of God and provides guidance on how to live a fulfilling and meaningful life, often takes a backseat to our devices. However, if we treated our Bible with the same level of importance as our cell phone, the world would undoubtedly be a better place.

In Psalm 119:105, it is written, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” This verse highlights the importance of the Bible in providing us with guidance and direction in our lives. By reading and studying the Bible, we can gain insight into how to navigate the complexities of life and make wise choices. Similarly, in Joshua 1:8, it is stated that we should meditate on God’s word day and night so that we may observe and do all that is written in it. This suggests that by immersing ourselves in scripture, we can become better equipped to apply its teachings in our daily lives.

Moreover, the Bible teaches us about the importance of developing a relationship with God. In John 15:5, it is written, “I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.” This verse reminds us that we need to stay connected to God through prayer, worship, and study of His word. It is only by remaining close to Him that we can bear fruit in our lives and share God’s love with others.

So download a Bible on your cell phone or start carrying your Bible and give yourself to start 5-10 minutes a day.

Your life will change.

Posted in Storytelling

Meet Pete and Oliver Storytelling Time

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

In the icy waters of Antarctica, there lived two best friends – a penguin named Peter and an otter named Oliver. They were inseparable and loved exploring the vast ocean together. They all had the same friends and there were several that always hung out. But these two were inseparable.

One day, as they were swimming, they noticed a group of humans on the shore. They were intrigued by these creatures and wanted to learn more about them. That’s when they heard about Jesus, a kind and loving person who preached about peace and love.

Curious about this mysterious figure, Peter and Oliver set out on a journey to find Jesus. They traveled through treacherous waters and faced many obstacles along the way, but their determination and friendship kept them going.

Finally, after months of searching, they reached the shore and met Jesus. He welcomed them with open arms and shared his teachings of love and kindness. As Jesus was talking soon more penguins, otters and bears came to shore to hear his teachings.

Peter and Oliver were amazed by his wisdom and soon became his loyal followers, spreading his message of peace and hope throughout the animal kingdom.

Thanks to their curiosity and thirst for knowledge, Peter and Oliver were able to share Jesus’ message of love and kindness with others, inspiring them to be better and more compassionate beings. And from then on, they continued to explore the vast ocean, always ready to learn something new and make new friends along theway.

Posted in Bible, Faith, Hope, interpretation, teaching

Books of The Bible-Learning the Bible

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

Here is a list of all the books in the Bible, in order: My Goal is to take each book and summarize it, based on my own interpretation.

Even Bible teachers and scholars may have different interpretations of certain passages or themes. It is important for individuals to engage in their own personal study and reflection on the text while also seeking guidance from reputable sources such as religious leaders or scholars.

It is also important to approach the word with an open mind and heart, recognizing its historical and cultural context while also applying its timeless and universal truths to our own lives.

So get your Bible ready we will start reading Genesis in The Old Testament on June 01,2023

I will skip around But here is the order so far. Going to Old Testament Genesis-Exodus-Psalms- Proverbs – New Testament – James and Acts . Then back to Old Testament –

The easiest Bible to understand is the New Living Translation or New American Standard but any version of the written Bible is good. If you cannot buy a Bible you can down load the Bible on your phone or tablet.

Old Testament:

  • Genesis
  • Exodus
  • Leviticus
  • Numbers
  • Deuteronomy
  • Joshua
  • Judges
  • Ruth
  • 1 Samuel
  • 2 Samuel
  • 1 Kings
  • 2 Kings
  • 1 Chronicles
  • 2 Chronicles
  • Ezra
  • Nehemiah
  • Esther
  • Job
  • Psalms
  • Proverbs
  • Ecclesiastes
  • Song of Solomon
  • Isaiah
  • Jeremiah
  • Lamentations
  • Ezekiel
  • Daniel
  • Hosea
  • Joel
  • Amos
  • Obadiah
  • Jonah
  • Micah
  • Nahum
  • Habakkuk
  • Zephaniah
  • Haggai
  • Zechariah
  • Malachi

New Testament:

  • Matthew
  • Mark
  • Luke
  • John
  • Acts
  • Romans
  • 1 Corinthians
  • 2 Corinthians
  • Galatians
  • Ephesians
  • Philippians
  • Colossians
  • 1 Thessalonians
  • 2 Thessalonians
  • 1 Timothy
  • 2 Timothy
  • Titus
  • Philemon
  • Hebrews
  • James
  • 1 Peter
  • 2 Peter
  • 1 John
  • 2 John
  • 3 John
  • Jude
  • Revelation