Slow Down

"I am the vine; you are the branches. The one who remains in me-and I in him-bears much fruit, because apart from me you can accomplish nothing."  -Jesus, John 15:5

Having some time off from work and away from the usual hustle and bustle of my normal routine has been wonderful and relaxing. It has also made me realize that no matter how busy I have been over the past year, I am still standing despite suffering the loss of my mom in August.  Coming back to work a few months ago was very difficult, but my work became a distraction of sorts to the pain I was feeling inside.  I tried to stay busy to keep my mind off of things and unfortunately, my Spiritual life suffered because of it... 

God wants each of us to take the time to be still in his Presence so that he can strengthen us. Not just at Christmas time or during a vacation, but every single day.  When we allow God to enter our lives in such a profound way, we will actually do less but accomplish more.

As we prepare for the new year, let's plan to walk closer with God, depending on his strength and trusting him in every situation, every single day.

We can live in peace by walking in the light of his Presence!

Just The Two of Us

The plans of the heart belong to man, but the answer of the tongue is from the Lord.  All the ways of a man are clean in his own sight, but the Lord weighs the motives.  Commit your works to the Lord and your plans will be established.  Proverbs 16: 1-3

As summer has kicked into high gear, it has become clear to me that I desperately need to spend more time in prayer, connecting with our Lord and Savior.  I have also been travelling the past two weekends and unable to attend worship, so I really do feel out of touch..

Finding the right balance in life always proves to be more difficult than it sounds.  For us to live up to our true potential and follow the plans God has made for us, we must seek to achieve balance in our lives.

Our first priority should always be to seek the Lord each and every day, though prayer, reading of the Word and worshiping on a regular basis. Working a full-time career and adding young children to the mix can certainly take away from any quiet time to pray or read the Bible, so I do at least try to save a few minutes each morning to start my day on the good foot.  

I know too many people that consider Sunday their day of rest and will make up any excuse to not go to church.  I honestly look forward to going to church each week and feel like something is off if I am out of town or miss a service.

Despite our busy schedules, we must make the time each and every day to devote to our Loving Father!!