Tag: Hope

Posted in Bible, Blessed, Blogging

Discovering God’s Intentionality: A Journey through the Bible

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb


Reading the Bible is a source of immense joy for many, a wellspring of wisdom that never runs dry. It’s a sacred text that continues to reveal new insights, even after numerous readings of the same passages. For some, this process is akin to a light turning on in every part of their being. This blog is a testament to that profound connection with the Word of God, a journey of exploration and revelation.

The Never-Ending Quest for Understanding:
As we grow older, it’s easy to fall into the trap of a “know it all” attitude, thinking that we’ve deciphered every layer of meaning in the Bible. However, when it comes to the Bible, such arrogance is misplaced. The hunger for understanding and the desire to grasp God’s intentionality in His Word should remain insatiable. The Bible is a vast tapestry of wisdom, and the goal is to discern what God intended when inspiring figures like Paul and John to pen their messages.

From Genesis to Revelation:
The Bible’s narrative is profound, encompassing the fall of humanity and God’s grand design for redemption through His Son, Jesus Christ. This overarching story is what captivates many readers. It’s a story of love, sacrifice, and eternal hope. The pages of the Bible are brimming with life lessons, guidance, and the promise of salvation, making it a timeless source of inspiration.

A Message for All:
This blog is not just for the seasoned individuals who have weathered the storms of life or for the high school students seeking their path. It’s for everyone who seeks a deeper connection with God’s Word. It’s for those who yearn to find meaning, solace, and inspiration within its pages. Whether you’re a Bible scholar or a newcomer, there’s something here for you.

Exploring God’s Word:
The aim of this blog is to share the author’s passion for the Bible and to provide readers with a diverse array of content. It’s not just about preaching; it’s about telling stories that carry messages and lessons. These narratives will offer a different perspective, shedding light on various aspects of faith and life.


In the ever-evolving journey with Christ, this blog seeks to be a guiding light. Its pages hold a message of hope, a promise of understanding, and an invitation to dive deeper into the profound Word of God. As you explore the content, may it resonate with you, inspire you, and encourage you on your spiritual journey. So, take a moment to look around, and hopefully, you’ll find something that lights up your own path with Christ.

Posted in Anger, depression, Faith

A Man Named Joe – Storytelling

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

Once upon a time in a bustling city, there lived a man named Joe. For as long as anyone could remember, Joe had been the epitome of discontent. He never seemed to be happy with anything in his life. His job, in particular, was the focus of his endless complaints, yet he faithfully trudged to work every day with a perpetual frown.

Joe wasn’t always this way, though. In his youth, he had been a vibrant and cheerful soul, full of dreams and enthusiasm. He had a loving family, supportive friends, and a job that he once cherished. But as the years passed, an insatiable grumpiness consumed him, like a dark cloud casting a shadow over his life. He was no longer satisfied with anything or anyone. He found fault in his coworkers, detested his boss, and criticized the work itself.

His transformation into a perpetual grouch extended beyond the workplace. He grumbled about the weather, criticized his neighbors, and even found fault with the news on TV. His negativity had driven away friends, strained family relationships, and left him isolated and lonely. Even his own family could barely tolerate his constant grumbling.

Then, one sunny Sunday morning, Joe decided to visit a small, welcoming church on the recommendation of an old friend. He walked through the doors with his typical scowl, skeptical about what a church could offer that would make any difference in his life.

The church, however, was different. It was a place where people found solace and hope, where sermons preached love and compassion, and where members genuinely cared for one another. The pastor, Reverend Sarah, was known for her inspiring messages about finding joy in the simplest of things and rekindling one’s faith.

Joe’s first visit was met with a mix of curiosity and hesitation. But as the reverend spoke about the power of gratitude, the importance of forgiveness, and the potential for transformation, Joe felt a stirring within him. It was a long-forgotten spark of hope, like a dim light at the end of a dark tunnel.

Over the weeks and months that followed, Joe became a regular at the church, attending services and engaging in community activities. He began to let go of his old grievances, sought reconciliation with his estranged friends, and even started to appreciate the beauty in the world around him.

With time, his transformation was noticeable to everyone who knew him. He mended his relationships with his family and started to smile genuinely once more. His job, no longer viewed with contempt, became more bearable, and his coworkers noted a new sense of teamwork in him.

Joe’s story serves as a reminder that, no matter how entrenched one is in negativity, hope can find a way to shine through. The church, with its message of love and faith, had been the catalyst for Joe’s renewal. Once more, he became the cheerful, optimistic man he had been in his youth, embracing life and inspiring those around him to do the same.

Posted in happiness, Life, Uncategorized

The Pursuit of Happiness: A Reflection on Expectations and Contentment

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb


In a world where happiness is often equated with success, wealth, and external achievements, it’s common to find ourselves constantly seeking happiness in various aspects of life. But is expecting happiness all the time a realistic goal? In this blog post, we’ll explore why it’s essential to reevaluate our expectations regarding happiness and shift our focus towards true contentment. We’ll also integrate two Bible verses and a positive quote to inspire you along the way.

The Expectation of Happiness:

Many people are conditioned to believe that happiness is a constant state we should maintain throughout life. We often hear phrases like “I’d be happy if I were rich” or “I’d be happy if I found the perfect partner.” While these desires are valid, the expectation that these external factors alone will lead to unceasing happiness can be problematic.

The Pursuit of Happiness:

The pursuit of happiness is deeply ingrained in our society, but the constant quest for it can lead to anxiety, stress, and disappointment. It’s crucial to remember that happiness is an emotion, and like all emotions, it’s transient. It’s unrealistic to expect that we’ll be happy all the time.

Contentment and Gratitude:

Rather than an unceasing pursuit of happiness, it’s beneficial to cultivate a sense of contentment and gratitude. Contentment is the acceptance of the present moment, while gratitude allows us to appreciate the blessings in our lives. These qualities can provide a more stable and fulfilling foundation for our overall well-being.

Bible Verses:

  1. Ecclesiastes 3:12 – “I know that there is nothing better for people than to be happy and to do good while they live.”
  2. Philippians 4:11 – “I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.”

Positive Quote of the Day:

“True happiness is not found in constant bliss, but in finding peace and contentment in every moment.” – Unknown

Conclusion:

In our relentless pursuit of happiness, we often overlook the joy that can be found

Posted in Blessed, Faith

The Challenging Path of Following Jesus: Embracing Faith Amidst Life’s Trials

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb


When we decide to serve God and follow the path of Jesus, we often anticipate a smoother, problem-free journey. However, the reality is quite different. The devil may try to convince us that serving God means a life free of difficulties, but in truth, we encounter challenges and trials. In this blog post, we explore the idea that following Jesus doesn’t eliminate problems but provides us with something far more precious.

The Misconception of a Trouble-Free Life:
Choosing to serve God doesn’t mean that all our problems will magically disappear. Life’s trials, challenges, and obstacles will still be present. Following Jesus is not a guarantee of an easy, carefree existence.

The Value of Walking with Christ:
It’s important to recognize that even amidst life’s difficulties, our worst day with Jesus is far better than our best day without Him. When we choose to follow Jesus, we are never alone, and we don’t have to face life’s challenges in isolation. He is our constant companion and source of strength.

The Reality of Being a Christian:
Being a Christian is far from easy, and it doesn’t equate to a problem-free life. However, it is undoubtedly one of the best decisions we can make. Through our faith, we find a deeper purpose and a profound connection with the divine.

Living Out Our Faith:
Hearing and reading the Word of God is essential, but it’s just the beginning. The true essence of Christianity lies in living out our faith. It’s not enough to know God’s teachings; we must apply them in our daily lives.

I want to be kind to those who are not kind to me.

I want to bear good fruit

I want to be good to those who are not good to me.

I want to be nice to others on days I feel like crap and just want to be alone.

I want to be like Jesus

I want power over the devil.

Two Bible Verses to Encourage Your Journey:

  1. 2 Corinthians 12:9 (NIV) – “But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore, I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.” This verse reminds us that in our weakness, we find God’s strength.
  2. James 1:22 (NIV) – “Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.” This verse reinforces the importance of not just hearing or reading the Word but actively living according to it.


Choosing to serve God and follow Jesus is a decision that may not remove life’s challenges, but it provides us with something far greater—unwavering faith, a constant companion, and the strength to overcome. Being a Christian is not about an easy path, but it is undoubtedly the best journey we can embark upon. It’s a call to live out our faith, to be a light in the world, and to trust that God’s grace is sufficient, even in our weaknesses.

Posted in Blessed

Embracing Friday the 13th: Overcoming Superstitions and Spreading Positivity

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb


Friday the 13th has long been associated with superstitions and fear, with some people dreading the day while others embrace it as a symbol of good luck. In this post, we’ll explore the myths and realities surrounding this day, and share how we can overcome superstitions to make it an amazing day for ourselves and those around us.

The Superstition of Friday the 13th:
For centuries, people have harbored superstitions about Friday the 13th, leading to the creation of the term “Triskaidekaphobia” to describe the fear of this date. It’s a fear so ingrained that it has influenced various aspects of society. Buildings often skip naming a 13th floor, and airlines report decreased flight bookings on this day. Even in the financial world, some investors choose to defer their investments to avoid the perceived bad luck.

Overcoming Fear:
While superstitions can have a psychological impact on people, it’s essential to remember that Friday the 13th is just a date, like any other. Instead of letting fear control our lives, we can choose to face this day with positivity and optimism.

Making Friday the 13th an Amazing Day:

  1. Invest with Confidence: Challenge the superstitions and invest on Friday the 13th, reminding yourself that your success depends on your knowledge and decisions, not the date.
  2. Acts of Kindness: Spread positivity by doing something nice for someone. It could be as simple as buying a stranger a coffee or holding the door open for someone. These small acts of kindness can make the day better for both you and others.
  3. Read Your Bible: Take a moment to reflect and find inspiration in your faith. Spend 5-10 minutes reading a passage from the Bible to center yourself and find strength.

Bible Verse:
“Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” – Isaiah 41:10 (ESV)

Positive Quote:
“The only thing we have to fear is fear itself.” – Franklin D. Roosevelt


Friday the 13th may carry superstitions, but it’s up to us how we choose to perceive and experience it. By rejecting fear and embracing positivity, we can make this day truly amazing for ourselves and those around us. Remember, it’s just a number on the calendar, and our actions and attitudes determine the outcome of our day.

Tell me what you did today to be a blessing to others?

Posted in Faith

Understanding God’s Ways When Prayers for Healing Go Unanswered

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

In Jeremiah 17:14, we find the poignant words: “Heal me, O Lord, and I will be healed; save me and I will be saved, for you are the One I praise.” These words resonate through the ages, capturing the essence of faith in divine healing.

As we reflect on the life of Jesus, we see that His mere presence had a profound impact on those seeking healing. It wasn’t His robe that held mystical power, but rather His omnipotence as the Savior of the world.

In the face of illness today, many of us echo the hopeful prayer of the woman in the Bible: “If I only touch his cloak, I will be healed.” It’s a beautiful expression of faith. However, there are moments when our prayers for physical healing go unanswered.

Why does this happen? Some may believe they lack faith, while others turn away from God in disappointment. Yet, at the heart of the matter lies an eternal truth: Sometimes, God chooses not to heal.

Here are four biblical reasons to ponder when grappling with the mystery of unanswered prayers for healing:

  1. He Sees the Beginning from the End:
    God’s perspective transcends our limited view. He knows the entire timeline of creation, from beginning to end. We must trust that His ways are higher than ours, even when we yearn for immediate comfort and healing. Ecclesiastes 3:11, Isaiah 44:6, and Revelation 22:13 remind us of God’s sovereignty.
  2. He Wants to Save:
    While physical healing is a heartfelt desire, God’s ultimate aim is the healing of our hearts unto salvation. Romans 10:9-10 assures us that those who call upon Jesus and believe in Him are saved. Sometimes, unanswered prayers for physical healing are a means to draw people to God for eternal healing.
  3. Our Days Are Numbered:
    Accepting that our days are predetermined can be challenging, especially when we question the timing and circumstances of death. However, verses from Psalm 139:16, Job 14:5-6, and Hebrews 9:27-28 emphasize the divine plan. In our pain and loss, we must hold onto the promise of a future without tears, sickness, or pain (Revelation 21:4).
  4. His Ways Are Not Our Ways:
    God’s wisdom surpasses our understanding. His decisions may seem perplexing, much like a parent’s choices may appear unjust to a child. However, true faith is rooted in trusting that God knows what is best, even when it comes to healing.

Remember – the woman in Mark chapter five and her simple yet profound words: “If I only touch His cloak, I will be healed.” Hold on to faith, trusting in a sovereign God, even when physical healing remains elusive.

Posted in Storytelling, Uncategorized

The Bitter Regret Storytelling)

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

In a shrinking Oklahoma town, where jobs were disappearing every day. There lived a woman named Sarah. She hated Oklahoma especially the little town she was forced to live and grow up in as a kid. It caused her to have an attitude towards her parents because she wanted to live in a bigger city not some small town no man land. But her parents had a small farm and they loved the town. This gave her a big chip on her shoulder. And she vowed to leave as an adult and never return.

To the outside world, she was known for her kindness and compassion. She treated strangers with warmth and friends with generosity, but there was a dark secret hidden behind this facade – she harbored bitterness and resentment towards her parents.

Sarah’s parents were far from perfect, they were not rich but lived a rich life. They were successful farmers and made an honest living and they did their best to provide for her. However, Sarah couldn’t see past their imperfections. She judged them harshly, never missing an opportunity to hurt them with her words. Calling them poor farmers no class and she was angry because she wanted more. As the years passed, her cruelty towards her parents only grew, and she seemed to take pleasure in hurting their feelings often making them cry. She moved away at age 19 put herself through college even though her parents offered. She rarely called never came home and when they did speak she belittled them.

Tragically, Sarah’s mother passed away, leaving her feeling a sudden need to play the devoted daughter. But it was too late; people saw through her façade, having witnessed her years of cruelty.

When her father eventually passed away, Sarah expected to inherit whatever little they had. However, her father had other plans. He knew his daughter had never been there for him, so he left everything to those who had supported him through thick and thin. In fact, he passed away without her even knowing, so everyone saw she was not funeral, as she had told him to leave her alone, consumed by her own life.

As the truth of her parents’ last will was revealed, Sarah felt a deep sense of regret. She had been so busy being mean that she had missed out on the chance to create cherished memories and share laughter with her parents. They had never met their two grandsons, and their legacy was left to others.

The grandsons they never knew received half of their inheritance, and the other half went to those who had stood by her parents in their times of need. Their home was donated to a family in need, a gesture of generosity that Sarah could never comprehend.

It’s a somber tale, reminding us all that anger and resentment can destroy precious relationships that could have been beautiful.

  1. Bible Verse on Anger: Ephesians 4:26 (NIV) – “In your anger, do not sin: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry.”
  2. Quotes on Not Becoming Bitter and Accepting Imperfection: a. “Forgiving is not forgetting; it’s letting go of the hurt.” b. “No one is perfect; we all make mistakes. It’s how we learn and grow that matters.”
  3. Quote on Being Fake and Mean: “Being fake may make others smile, but being real makes your heart happy.”

Regret is a heavy burden to carry, especially when it’s the regret of being mean to our parents. We often think there will be time to make amends, but life can be unpredictable. Before it’s too late, it’s crucial to stop our anger and grow up.

It’s easy to fall into the trap of believing we’re better than others, but that’s a dangerous path to tread. None of us are perfect, and arrogance only isolates us from meaningful connections.

How would you like it if your own kids treat you like you

Remember, kindness and empathy are the foundations of a good life. Being mean to others will eventually come back to haunt us, just as we regret being unkind to our parents. Let’s choose kindness and understanding, for our own sake and for the sake of those around us.

Posted in Blogging, Hope, Joy, Uncategorized

Joy

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

Hello and welcome to this amazing Sunday I’m so glad you’re here with me in sunny Florida. I appreciate your loyalty and support so much.
In today’s post, we’re going to explore the Bible and see what God says about joy. And then we’re going to learn tons of ways to find joy in the ordinary as well as ways to find joy in the journey. There’s absolutely no reason that we should be unhappy in this life we lead. Yet most of us are. We’re so focused on the end goal, that we forget to enjoy the moments along the way. It’s time we changed that, don’t you think? So, let’s dive in.

I think this will stretch out over a couple posts, because there is a lot to say on this.

What is the difference between happiness and joy?
Many people wonder if there even is a difference between the two. Let’s look at the definitions. Dictionary.com defines happiness as “the quality or state of being happy; good fortune; pleasure, contentment; joy.” I believe in this definition, the key word is “state.” I looked up the definition of state and found, “the condition of a person or thing, as with respect to circumstances.” In other words happiness is temporary and depends on what’s happening.

Joy, on the other hand, is defined as “the emotion of great delight or happiness caused by something exceptionally good or satisfying; keen pleasure; elation.” If you are a child of God, that “something that is exceptionally good” comes from the Lord. Joy is part of who you are. It’s a fruit of the spirit.
Your joy doesn’t go away when something bad happens, like someone cutting you off in traffic or having a bad day. In other words, it is completely normal to experience joy in the ordinary, everyday aspects of life.
I believe that there is a very real difference between happiness and joy. Joy is a conviction from the heart that comes from the Lord. It’s an internal emotion that doesn’t change regardless of what’s happening on any given day. Happiness, on the other hand, is a surface-level emotion that’s based on external factors.


How can we be happy according to the Bible?
The Bible has a lot to say about happiness, but it uses a different word: joy. Joy is not a feeling that depends on our circumstances, but a gift that comes from God. When we trust in Jesus Christ as our Savior and Lord, we receive the Holy Spirit, who fills us with joy and assures us of our eternal salvation. Joy is not something we have to work for, but something we already have in Christ.

One of the ways we can experience joy is by bearing the fruit of the Spirit. This means living in a way that reflects the character of God, who lives in us. The fruit of the Spirit has nine aspects, and joy is one of them. Joy is not something we do, but something we are. It is the result of following Jesus and staying connected to him.

Galatians 5:22-23 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.

How can we enjoy the simple things in life?
The Bible also teaches us to be content with what we have and to give thanks in all circumstances. This means that we can find joy in the simple things in life, not just in the big events or achievements. We can appreciate the beauty of God’s creation, the warmth of a cup of coffee, the intimacy with our spouse and the hugs from our children. We can slow down and savor the moments that make life meaningful.

One way to do this is to be more spontaneous and creative. We can break the routine and try something new. We can surprise our loved ones with a note or a gift. We can have a picnic in the backyard or a movie night on the couch. We can make every day an adventure and an opportunity to show love.

Life is not a destination, but a journey. And joy is not a destination, but a companion. Let’s enjoy the ride with God and with each other.

Part 2 will be posted Thursday

See you all tomorrow

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 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!