You’re invited to find a quiet place to welcome the Lord in. Few things nourish us more than time set apart to follow the thoughts of our hearts. Grab your coffee or tea and join me for Sunday Afternoon Pause: Chapter 4.
“We have leisure but little rest.”
Margin by Richard Swenson
Devotion
Our reading today in the Bible takes us to Genesis 37:12-28.
"Joseph’s life appears senseless. Reckless. Out of control. Joseph’s brother’s in their jealous rage stripped him of his prized coat and conspired to kill him but their brother Reuben talked them into selling him into slavery instead. Could God’s proverbial hand still be at work in Joseph’s life? Is it possible that what appears to be nothing but a tangle of other people’s agendas will somehow be the very ball of yarn God will use to weave one of the most redemptive masterpieces in human history?
Joseph’s brothers may have been able to destroy his coat of many colors, but they would never be able to destroy the dreams God had given him. When you find yourself wondering what God’s up to, remember He is good and He can be trusted. God doesn’t often give us a clear picture of the places we’re going, only a clear picture of Himself so we can follow Him there.” - By Kelly Minter from her book Finding God Faithful, A Study of the Life of Joseph.
Dig deeply from the well of His Word. As you get to know His character and His faithfulness you will be refreshed.
Pause Memory Verse: "For we walk by faith, not by sight.“ II Cor. 5:7
Pause Quote: "God doesn’t often give us a clear picture of the places we’re going, only a clear picture of Himself so we can follow Him there.”
Pause Question: Is there a place, a relationship, a problem that the Lord is asking you to entrust to Him?
Nantucket photo by John Fitzgerald
Planting Seeds of Friendship
With the sunny days of summer here it is peak season to gather together and once more write things down on our calendars. What better time to celebrate those who have cheered us on this last year, those who have been spiritual mentors to us, friends and family who have encouraged us along the way. CLICK HERE for some great ideas to show your love and appreciation!
Photo courtesy of Pexel
If we've learned anything through this last year it's that we need each other. "There are people who will fall right through the cracks if we don't figure out how to build some bridges... they're walking a tough road. Heaven forbid we let them walk it alone." Shares Sophie Hudson from her book, "Giddy Up, Eunice". I am certain there are people in your church and family who need you. People in your workplace and in your neighborhood who need you.
"You are uniquely built to impact others in ways you cannot even imagine.
The Lord has woven our stories together,
how intentionally He has intersected our paths,
and how beautifully our callings complement each other."
Not that we need a reason to plan an outing but June is chock full of fun dates on the calendar to get you started in your planning. CLICK HERE for some ideas!
Mixing Bowl: Recipes!
Invite a friend over and start your day with one of these delicious coffees!
Here's some great coffees that are quick and easy to whip up. CLICK HERE for the recipes.
Photo by Linda Thomson
A Home to Keep: DIY!
The Writing Is On The Wall
A meaningful way to preserve printed sentiments and photos.
The perfect gift!
Photo by Linda Thomson
This group photo is of a mother/daughter mentoring group I started many years ago when our daughter was in middle school. Included were 12 wonderful girls and their mommas. I thought it was mostly for our daughters but I soon realized the Lord meant it to be a beautiful place of friendship and growth for the moms as well. CLICK HERE for the instructions of this personalized gift!
With the chill of the last year behind us, let's welcome summer's warm arrival with open arms and thankful hearts. No matter what unexpected things have taken place or what unpredictable things may unfold in the year ahead our Lord is in control.
"Being confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will
carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus."
Philippians 1:6
From my home to yours, Linda
I remember my Heidi and I joined your Mother- Daughter outing when we looked at fun Redlands shops and lunched at The Eating Place. Heidi and her husband still live there (my hometown) and bought their first house recently near downtown!
Thanks for the pause and ideas for refreshing! God's word is always a place for refreshment and hope!!