Tag: Blessings

Posted in Faith

“Tuning Out the Noise: Embracing Divine Guidance”

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb


Good morning! Today, let’s embark on a journey of spiritual reflection and inspiration. In a world filled with constant noise and distractions, it’s essential to pause and listen to the still, small voice of Jesus. He has a unique message just for you, a divine strategy that can illuminate your path. Today, we explore the power of faith, forgiveness, and the unwavering support of Jesus, drawing wisdom from two powerful Bible verses and one uplifting Thursday quote.

Bible Verse 1: Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV)
“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.”

This verse from the Book of Proverbs reminds us of the importance of trusting in God’s divine plan. In a noisy world, we often try to rely on our own understanding and abilities. However, God invites us to trust Him completely, lean into His wisdom, and surrender to His guidance. When we do this, our paths become straightened by His divine hand.

Bible Verse 2: Isaiah 41:10 (NIV)
“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

Isaiah 41:10 offers comfort and reassurance. It reminds us that we need not fear the future or be swayed by the opinions of others. Jesus is with us, offering unwavering support and strength. His presence is our source of courage, and His righteous right hand upholds us through life’s storms.

Positive Thursday Quote:
“Optimism is a happiness magnet. If you stay positive, good things and good people will be drawn to you.” – Mary Lou Retton

This quote by Mary Lou Retton serves as a reminder that a positive outlook on life can attract positivity. When we tune out the negativity and focus on the message of hope and faith, we become beacons of light, drawing good things and good people into our lives.


As you navigate through this Thursday and beyond, remember the powerful messages from the Bible verses and the uplifting quote. Trust in the Lord, lean on His wisdom, and fear not, for He is with you. Your story matters to Him, and He offers peace that surpasses understanding and strength in your weakness. Embrace the power of faith, forgiveness, and positivity, for with Jesus by your side, you serve the One true God, mighty to save. Have a blessed and purposeful day!

Posted in Loading the U-Haul

Navigating the Journey of Love and Moving: Challenges and Blessings

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

Hello everyone,

I hope you’re all doing well. Today, I find myself amidst the whirlwind of packing and moving, and it’s got me reflecting on something profound – nothing challenges and tests a marriage or relationship more than moving, especially when it’s a long-distance move. It would be a different story if we were independently wealthy, able to whisk everything away and simply replace it at our destination. But like most average people, we face the daunting task of sifting through our possessions, deciding what’s truly valuable, and what can be left behind. This debate has been an interesting journey in itself. You see, moving isn’t just about packing boxes; it’s about time limits, mileage restrictions, and unexpected expenses. It’s about finding common ground in what we value.

The truth is, what I find valuable may not hold the same significance for my partner, and vice versa. It’s a challenge we all must confront. But in the midst of this chaos, there’s something we must never forget – our love for each other and the belief that this journey is part of God’s plan for us. Material things can always be replaced, but some items, like old photos and cherished memories, are irreplaceable. They remind us of who we are and where we’ve been.

Someday, we’ll look back on this chaotic moving adventure, and we’ll not only be grateful but also share hearty laughs over the craziness of it all. While some memories can reside in our minds, other things must take precedence, and since we’re all unique individuals, we need to respect each other’s boundaries and appreciate what we want to bring with us realistically.

As we wrap up our break and return to the task of loading the truck, I wish you all a wonderful Thursday evening, a fantastic Friday, and a truly blessed weekend. If I can, I’ll pop in to provide an update; if not, I’ll catch up with you once we arrive in Florida.

I’m immensely grateful that I have my Bible on my phone because, tonight, amidst the hustle and bustle, I’ll need a good 15-minute read to recenter myself and find peace.

Positive Quote for the Day: Life is a journey, enjoy the trip. Aim for the sky, but move slowly, enjoying every step along the way. It is all those little steps that make the journey complete. The journey is a reward.

Bible Verse: “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.” – Proverbs 3:5-6

Posted in Blessed, Uncategorized

Rejoicing in the Blessings of Employment on this Beautiful Thursday

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

Title: “Rejoicing in the Blessings of Employment on this Beautiful Thursday”

This is the beautiful day a Thursday, that the Lord has made, and it’s a day worth rejoicing in. As the workweek approaches its end, let us take a moment to reflect on the significance of having a job and the blessings that come with it.

In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, it’s easy to get caught up in the routines and challenges of work. We wake up early, commute, meet deadlines, and sometimes face the stresses of our jobs. It’s during these moments that we may forget the immense blessing of having employment.

Having a job is more than just a means to earn a living; it’s an opportunity. It’s a chance to contribute to society, to grow personally and professionally, and to make a difference in the lives of others. It provides us with stability and a sense of purpose, and it allows us to support ourselves and our loved ones.

On this beautiful Thursday, let’s take a moment to show our gratitude for the jobs we have. Here’s a reminder of the importance of gratitude:

“Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today, and creates a vision for tomorrow.” – Melody Beattie

Gratitude has the power to transform our perspective. When we express gratitude for our employment, we not only acknowledge the blessings of the present but also create a positive vision for our future.

Consider the countless individuals who are seeking employment, longing for the stability and opportunities that come with having a job. Our employment is a privilege, and by being grateful for it, we honor this privilege.

Furthermore, as we approach the end of the workweek, let’s take a moment to reflect on our accomplishments. Celebrate your hard work and dedication. Recognize the challenges you’ve overcome and the goals you’ve achieved. Each day at work is a step forward, an opportunity to learn and grow.

In the midst of the fatigue that sometimes accompanies the workweek’s end, let us not forget the blessings of employment. As we embrace this beautiful Thursday, may we rejoice in the opportunities it brings, show gratitude for our jobs, and carry the positive spirit of thankfulness into the days ahead.

Remember, every day is a gift, and having a job is a blessing. Rejoice and be glad in it!

Posted in Blessed, joyful-echoes

Gratitude and Kindness: Keys to a Terrific Tuesday”

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

Good morning, and happy terrific Tuesday to all of you! I hope your week is off to a fantastic start, filled with positivity and purpose. Today, I’d like to remind you of two simple yet profound principles that can enhance our lives: gratitude and kindness.

Firstly, let’s talk about gratitude. It’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of life and overlook the blessings that surround us. But taking a moment to give thanks for everything we have can shift our perspective and bring more joy into our lives. Even in challenging times, there’s always something to be grateful for, whether it’s our health, the support of loved ones, or the opportunities that come our way.

Here’s a positive quote to inspire your day:

“Gratitude turns what we have into enough.” – Aesop

This quote reminds us that when we appreciate what we have, it can transform our perception of abundance. So, as you go about your day, take a moment to reflect on the things you’re thankful for, and let that gratitude brighten your Tuesday.

Secondly, let’s focus on kindness. Being kind to others is a simple yet powerful way to make a positive impact on the world. It costs us nothing but can mean everything to someone else. Whether it’s a smile, a helping hand, or a kind word, small acts of kindness can ripple out and create a chain reaction of goodwill.

Now, let’s turn to a Bible verse that emphasizes the importance of kindness:

“Ephesians 4:32 (NIV) – Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.”

This verse from Ephesians reminds us of the compassion and forgiveness that should guide our interactions with others. By extending kindness, we not only brighten someone else’s day but also reflect the love and grace that we have received.

So, as you navigate this terrific Tuesday, let’s make a conscious effort to be grateful for the blessings in our lives and to spread kindness wherever

Posted in genealogy, family history, Uncategorized

Unveiling Family Mysteries: My Genealogical Journey Found While Repacking Old Boxes

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

Hello, everyone! I hope you’ve been well. I apologize for my brief absence; it’s been a whirlwind of activity as we prepare for our big move from Ohio to the sunny shores of Florida. But today, I’m excited to share with you an unexpected blessing that has recently come my way.

You see, I’m an avid genealogy and history enthusiast. Whether it’s local history, state government, worldwide events, or the intricacies of family history, I’m captivated by it all. For me, delving into genealogy was an absolute must.

The Mystery of My Maternal Grandmother:
My journey into the world of genealogy took an intriguing turn because of my maternal grandmother. She was born in 1902, and as many of you might be aware, the record-keeping practices of that time left much to be desired. Even today, obtaining adoption information from courts can be a challenging endeavor. My grandmother, however, knew she was adopted but seldom spoke about it. When she passed away at the remarkable age of 94 in 1996, I made it my mission to uncover the truth about her origins.

The Quest for Answers:
From 1997 onwards, I embarked on a relentless pursuit to unearth the secrets of my grandmother’s past. I can still vividly recall spending endless hours in libraries, poring over dusty records, and combing through archives. Back then, home computers weren’t as common as they are today, so the library became my haven for research.

The Surprising Discovery:
Recently, as I was going through old boxes of belongings, a hodgepodge of memories accumulated over the years, I stumbled upon a tattered book titled “America Illustrated,” dating back to the late 19th century. My love for books compelled me to keep it, and little did I know that within its fragile pages lay the answers I had been seeking for over two decades.

Inside the pages of this aged book were documents that illuminated my grandmother’s early years spent in an orphanage. Astonishingly, the answer to my lifelong question had been tucked away in a storage closet right next to our apartment all these years. It’s incredible to think that my mother had possession of this crucial piece of our family history before her passing in 2000.

Reflections and Unexpected Blessings:
As we approach the latter part of 2023, I find myself reflecting on this incredible journey. For 23 years, I unknowingly carried the key to my grandmother’s true identity with me, hidden in plain sight. It’s a powerful reminder that life’s most profound blessings can often be right under our noses, waiting for the perfect moment to reveal themselves.

Moving Forward:
In conclusion, I want to emphasize the importance of remaining open to life’s unexpected blessings. It was my granddaughter, Celina, who presented us with the incredible opportunity to move to Florida. This move has brought my daughter and me closer than ever, and we’re on the verge of settling into a beautiful new home. While this journey has been at times chaotic and daunting, it has been nothing short of thrilling.

So, dear readers, as you go about your day, remember that miracles and blessings are all around us, just waiting to be discovered. Whether it’s finding answers to long-held questions or embracing new adventures, life is full of surprises. I encourage you to be kind to others and, if the opportunity arises, be a blessing to someone you may not even know. Sometimes, it’s as simple as holding the door open for a stranger.

Wishing you all a day filled with unexpected joys and blessings. Until next time, peace.

Posted in Blessed, Life, Uncategorized

Finding Faith in Life’s Ups and Downs: God’s Ever-Present Guidance

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

Life is a journey filled with peaks and valleys, where joy and sorrow intermingle, and we encounter the unexpected at every turn. In the midst of this unpredictable journey, it’s comforting to believe that there is a guiding presence, a force that knows our future even before we do. For many, that guiding force is God, a source of unwavering faith and strength.

The Inevitable Roller Coaster of Life

Life is a kaleidoscope of experiences. At times, we bask in the warm glow of success and love, feeling on top of the world. Other times, we navigate the treacherous terrain of health issues, grief, or abuse, leaving us feeling lost and broken. Yet, amidst this whirlwind of emotions, one constant remains – our faith in God.

Trusting in Divine Providence

No matter the circumstances we face, the belief that God is always with us provides a profound sense of comfort. It’s a belief deeply rooted in trust, an unwavering conviction that there is a plan for us, even when we can’t see it. This trust allows us to face adversity with resilience and to savor moments of joy with gratitude, knowing that all experiences, whether good or bad, shape our journey.

The Divine Perspective

From a divine perspective, every trial we encounter is an opportunity for growth, every loss a chance for spiritual awakening. In the depths of grief or the throes of pain, we may question why a loving God would allow such suffering. But it’s in these moments that our faith is truly tested. It’s when we cling to our belief in God’s presence that we find the strength to endure, the courage to heal, and the capacity to forgive.

God’s Role in Our Success

On the flip side, when we taste success and happiness, it’s easy to forget our dependence on a higher power. We may become complacent, attributing our achievements solely to our efforts. Yet, it’s in these moments of triumph that acknowledging God’s role becomes even more important. Recognizing that our successes are not solely the result of our abilities but also the divine guidance we receive keeps us humble and grateful.

Love as the Ultimate Expression

In the tapestry of life, love is perhaps the most potent thread. It binds us to one another and connects us to the divine. It’s through love that we often experience God’s presence most profoundly. Whether it’s the love of a friend, the love of family, or the love of a romantic partner, it’s a reminder of the love God has for us.

Embracing the Journey

In conclusion, life’s journey is a complex tapestry of experiences, from the highest peaks to the lowest valleys. Throughout it all, our faith in God provides the thread that weaves these moments together. It’s a belief that God is with us every step of the way, guiding us through life’s twists and turns, and revealing the beauty in both our

Posted in Bible

Embracing the Beauty of Terrific Tuesdays with Joy and Purpose

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

Embracing the Beauty of Terrific Tuesdays with Joy and Purpose

Terrific Tuesday! As we step into this new day, we are reminded that “this is the day that the Lord has made; we will rejoice and be glad in it” (Psalm 118:24). With this affirmation, let’s approach the day ahead with hearts brimming with gratitude and positivity.

Every dawn gifts us a fresh start, a chance to embrace the day’s potential. Let’s heed the call of Colossians 3:23, carrying our enthusiasm into each task: “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.”

Amid the hustle and bustle, let’s also find solace in Philippians 4:13: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” With this verse as our foundation, we can face challenges with unwavering resolve.

Remember, the light of God’s word guides us even in the busiest of days. “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path” (Psalm 119:105). Let’s make it a habit to read our Bible daily, nurturing our spirits and seeking divine wisdom.

In the spirit of embracing positivity, let’s cherish the words of an inspiring quote: “Believe you can and you’re halfway there” (Theodore Roosevelt). With faith in our hearts, we can overcome obstacles and make the day truly beautiful.

Let’s greet Terrific Tuesdays with open arms, viewing each moment as a gift from above. With joy, determination, and a commitment to growth, we can transform this day into something extraordinary.

Posted in Bible, Blessed, Blogging

Starting Your Day Right

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

Starting Your Day Right: A Better Alternative to Morning Phone Scrolling

Hey there,

I wanted to talk to you about something that’s become all too common in our modern lives, especially in the mornings. You wake up, reach for your phone, and are faced with a decision: do you start scrolling through social media or dive into the day ahead? It’s a choice many of us face, and I’d like to share some insights that might just change how you begin your mornings.

To shed some light on this dilemma, I conducted a survey back in 2021. I asked around a thousand people about their smartphone and social media habits, and the results were both fascinating and eye-opening. Here’s what I found: half of the respondents admitted to scrolling through their phones within the first few minutes of waking up. This number went up to over 60 percent among those aged 19-33. And a whopping 80 percent confessed that they usually checked texts, emails, and social media before spending time with God in the morning. Really?!

But let’s be realistic– starting the day by scrolling through your phone is like having chocolate cereal for breakfast or a oozing sweet cinnamon roll. It might be a tempting indulgence, but it’s not exactly healthy for your mind and soul.

So, given these stats, let’s talk about a better approach to those precious moments just after waking up.

First, let’s dive into the reasons why we’re so prone to reaching for our phones. I’ve come up with six possible explanations, and I call the first three “candy motives.”

  1. FOMO fear of missing out: We crave the novelty of what’s new in the world or among our friends. We want to be in the know and not feel left out.
  2. Ego Boost : Checking for likes, comments, and mentions strokes our ego. We enjoy being noticed and acknowledged.
  3. Entertainment : We seek entertainment to make those first few moments more interesting. We’re drawn to the endless stream of captivating content online.

Then, there are the “avoidance motives,” which are about escaping or delaying facing the realities of the day:

  1. Boredom : We avoid facing the day’s perceived boredom by getting lost in our phones.
  2. Avoiding Responsibility : We delay confronting our responsibilities by immersing ourselves in our phones.
  3. Struggle and Frustration Avoidance: When we’re dealing with challenges, we turn to our phones to avoid confronting them immediately.

Now, imagine a better way to begin your day – a way that centers you, aligns you with God’s will, and prepares you to face whatever comes your way. Picture yourself waking up with the intention of being filled with the Holy Spirit, seeking God’s guidance, and finding satisfaction in His presence.

“O Lord, in the morning you hear my voice; in the morning I prepare a sacrifice for you and watch.” – Psalm 5:3

So, how do we transition to this better way? It requires intentionality and planning. Start by seeking God’s steadfast love in the morning. Cry out to Him, acknowledging your need and your desire to align your heart with His. Open your Bible and meditate on His promises. Ask Him to satisfy you with His love and to guide your steps throughout the day.

Psalm 90:14 Satisfy us in the morning with your unfailing love, that we may sing for joy and be glad all our days. Psalm 46:5 God is within her, she will not fall; God will help her at break of day. Psalm 143:8 Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you.

Remember, this change won’t happen overnight. It takes conscious decisions and a commitment to start your day in a way that sets the tone for your interactions, decisions, and attitudes.

So, before you go to bed tonight, set a plan. Break free from the grip of phone addiction and the habits of avoidance. Instead, wake up, turn to God’s Word, spend time in prayer, and allow His presence to shape your day. Make the choice to feed your soul with God’s truth and love, and experience the transformative power of beginning your day with Him.

May your mornings be filled with purpose, peace, and a deeper connection to God.

Have a blessed day

Deb

Posted in Angels Amoung Us, Blessed, joyful-echoes, Let’s Learn the Bible

Let’s learn the Bible – Embracing the God of the Impossible: Finding Joy in Luke 1:37

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

Embracing the God of the Impossible: Finding Joy in Luke 1:37

In the Gospel of Luke, a mere seven words hold a profound message that should stir joy within the hearts of believers: “For nothing will be impossible with God” (Luke 1:37). These words serve as a powerful reminder of God’s boundless power and His ability to transform the seemingly impossible into reality. As we delve into this message, let’s explore the essence of this verse and how it resonates throughout the Bible.

The Book of Jeremiah further reinforces this sentiment, proclaiming, “Ah, Lord GOD! It is you who have made the heavens and the earth by your great power and by your outstretched arm! Nothing is too hard for you” (Jeremiah 32:17). This verse underscores the omnipotence of God, showcasing that His capabilities are not limited by the constraints of the natural world.

Throughout the Bible, we witness instances where God defies human logic and accomplishes the unimaginable. The story of the Israelites marching around the walls of Jericho for seven days, culminating in the miraculous fall of the city’s walls, illustrates God’s unconventional methods. This account challenges us to trust in God’s ways even when they seem illogical or counterintuitive.

The miraculous events of the Bible continue with stories like Sarah conceiving in her 80s and Mary, a virgin, giving birth to Jesus. These accounts exemplify God’s supremacy over natural laws, demonstrating that He operates outside the boundaries of physics and time. This serves as a beacon of hope for believers, inspiring them to believe that Jesus can still bring forth the impossible in their lives, their homes, their finances, and their families.

Amid the uncertainties of life, we find solace in the unchanging nature of Jesus Christ. His unconditional love, unwavering presence, and unmatched power distinguish Him as the one who can meet our deepest needs. The promise that He will never leave nor forsake us provides the foundation for unshakeable faith.

In our prayers, we acknowledge the Lord’s sovereignty and invite His transformative power into our lives. We recognize that His presence casts out fear, heals, and renews our souls. With faith, we believe that miracles can occur today, and seemingly impossible situations can be turned around by the hands of the Almighty.

As we embrace the God of the impossible, we choose to seek Him diligently, forsaking worldly pursuits. Our hearts resonate with the desire to encounter the transformative presence of Jesus, who offers us grace, healing, and restoration. We recognize that He alone can mend our brokenness, heal our wounds, and bring love and renewal to every aspect of our being.

Ultimately, Luke 1:37 reminds us that there is no challenge too great, no obstacle too insurmountable, and no situation too dire for God’s intervention. This verse beckons us to lean into our faith and trust in the God who defies impossibilities, promising to work miracles in our lives and reveal His glory in the most unexpected ways.

Posted in Blessed, Tuesday

Embrace the Blessings of Terrific Tuesday: Gratitude in Every Circumstance

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

Embrace the Blessings of Terrific Tuesday: Gratitude in Every Circumstance

Greetings and a warm welcome to this Terrific Tuesday! As the sun rises, let us take a moment to reflect on the blessings that grace our lives, regardless of the challenges we may face. Today, we’re reminded that each one of us is truly blessed, irrespective of our circumstances.

Gratitude in Diversity:
From the working poor to the well-off, from the physically disabled to those battling mental health issues – we all share a common thread of blessings. Our lives may differ, but the gift of life itself unites us. In our journey, some of us may be heading to work, while others navigate the complexities of disability, chronic pain, health mental health or addiction challenges. In each scenario, there’s an opportunity for growth, resilience, and change.

Shifting Perspectives:
Today, on this Terrific Tuesday, let’s shift our focus from what we lack to what we possess. It’s easy to get caught in a cycle of complaints, but what if we channeled that energy into gratitude? The ability to breathe, to rise each day, and to have the power to make positive changes – these are blessings that deserve recognition.

A Message of Faith and Gratitude:
Amidst the chaos of life, it’s crucial to place our faith at the forefront. By showing gratitude, we’re opening ourselves to the universe’s abundance. Today, instead of dwelling on what we wish we had, let’s celebrate what we do have. As we navigate our individual paths, let’s remember that someone, somewhere, is facing greater challenges. This awareness allows us to find solace in the blessings we often take for granted.

A Positive Message for the Day:
“Embrace today with a heart full of gratitude, and watch how blessings unfold in the most unexpected ways.”

Bible Verse on Strength and Perseverance:
“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.” – James 1:2-3 (NIV)

As we journey through this Terrific Tuesday, let’s carry a heart brimming with gratitude and faith. Together, we can find strength in unity, inspiration in shared experiences, and hope in the promise of a brighter tomorrow. Thank you for joining us today – your presence is a blessing. Please share your thoughts and suggestions in the comments below for topics you’d like to explore in the future.

Wishing you a truly Terrific Tuesday filled with joy, gratitude, and positivity.

Deb