“Their eyes bulge with abundance; They have more than heart could wish.”

Psalm 73:7

Do you ever cry out like the Psalmist does here? When reading through some of the Psalms, I all too often agree and think, “Yeah! Everything comes so easy for them. Why do other people have everything they want, while I struggle?” The proverbial grass “over there” seems a bit greener and more vibrant than mine.

Girls, comparison like this breeds envy. And envy seeps into our soul’s soil, establishing roots of bitterness and discontent. 

The struggle is real (and promised in this life). Physical pain, loneliness, job loss, marital woes…the list is endless, and we each have a unique set of challenges. So, how do we stop our wandering gaze and escape the traps of “woe-is-me” and “if-only”?

First, we have to focus on our own grass—our own circumstances. Sometimes it’s so easy to look away and see everyone else’s seeming blessings and miss our own. Here’s an idea: Really assess your life…home in on the Lord’s gifts. Did you see the sunrise or sunset that God made today? The bursts of colors glorify the Creator—and so does your vision to be able to see it. Do you have a roof over your head to stay warm during the winter months? Did you go to bed hungry last night (well, don’t answer that if you’re on a diet)? Is there one person in your life you can count on to be there for you?

Sister, you are richly blessed.

When you peer with intention into the meadow of your life, you’ll be astounded by the splendor that exists and the glorious blessings. Focus on what you have to be thankful for—the big things and the small things. Even our struggles and pains are purposeful, ultimately resulting in beauty. When we look for weeds, that’s all we’ll see…but when we look for the blessings, our perspective will change completely.

Most importantly, if you’ve accepted Jesus as your Lord and Savior then, regardless of any rocks, weeds, or dead grass in life, you can choose contentment in His saving grace. You are the greatest miracle: once dead and now alive forever in Christ. And your pasture can’t get any greener than that.

Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.

Romans 8:1

Has it happened to you? You’re enjoying a delicious dinner out with friends, talking and laughing the hours away. A few sweet teas into the evening, you hit the restroom and gaze at your reflected smile…only to see a big green hunk of spinach between your teeth. The mirror has shown you what your friends didn’t tell you—and you couldn’t see.

So, we take down the mirror off the wall and use it to clean our teeth, right? Of course not! The mirror only reveals the problem, it doesn’t fix it. 

This is a perfect analogy for God’s law. Throughout the Bible, the Jews were trying to use the law to achieve a level of holiness that would be acceptable to God. Even today, followers of nearly every world religion—and many Christians—believe the “rules” are steppingstones to salvation. 

But sisters, the law was never meant to be the way to God. Our Father in heaven is perfect, and He requires nothing less than perfection. So striving for rule-following, no matter how hard we try, will fail. Humans are not perfect, and we are incapable of following God’s law with perfect righteousness. 

Just like the bathroom mirror that reveals food caught in your teeth, the law is meant to show us we are not good enough for a perfect, Holy God. His law shows us how unrighteous we really are so we’ll run to the only One Who is perfect. Jesus came to this earth, fully God and fully man, to pay the price for our sinfulness. Because he died for us and rose again, we are able to accept His gift of grace and be made perfect in God’s eyes.

The mirror cannot remove the spinach from our teeth. But it was necessary to recognize there was a problem—a big hunk of green. And trying to follow God’s rules will not remove the stain of sin from our lives. The law shows us there’s a problem…but Jesus Christ is the only answer. 

“But I want you to know, brethren, that the things which happened to me have actually turned out for the furtherance of the gospel…”

Philippians 1:12

When setbacks happen, our natural response can be frustration, even anger. We had a vision for where we were heading and a specific plan of action…then things just veered off track. This can be a small impediment, like hitting every red light on your way to an important appointment, or a more substantial obstacle—a frightening medical report or an unexpected layoff.

As he was writing to the Philippians, the Apostle Paul was in prison, literally chained around the clock to a Roman guard. And this certainly wasn’t where he expected to be in his vision for advancing the gospel. But he wasn’t frustrated or angry at all. In fact, Paul saw his imprisonment as purposeful to God’s strategy. Now that’s the kind of attitude to have.

Can we do this? How can we see our trials and tribulations as progressions? It’s all about perspective, really. About looking around at the situation and the people involved to see how it could be used to glorify God. All those red lights? Perhaps the Lord is timing your trip to avoid a wreck or get you to your appointment just in time to connect someone who needs to hear your friendly, “Hello.” That layoff? Maybe a coworker needs to see what a Christian really looks like, as you handle the news with grace and godly confidence. (And, just maybe, the Lord has something much better in store for you—and He knew you’d never leave on your own.)

A change of circumstances, seemingly backward, can really be creating spiritual progress, so we end up exactly where He wants us. It’s all part of God’s curriculum in the classroom of our lives.

Are you in the midst of a reversal right now? It’s likely that the Lord is orchestrating it so He can advance your life or the life of someone you’ve come in contact with because of that reversal. So, sisters, let’s look around with this fresh perspective and take on a new attitude of grace and gratefulness in every situation. 

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.

2 Corinthians 5:17

When you meet someone new, how do you describe yourself? By your job? Your hobbies? Perhaps you share some notable personality trait. And what about the people that know you already—how would they portray you? 

The most important perception—the only one that matters, really—is that of God. So, how do you think He sees you? Does the thought of answering this question make you cringe? Maybe you immediately begin thinking about where you’ve been in life and what you’ve done…and your head hangs in shame. There are choices you’ve made, whether last week, last year, or several decades ago, that you know weren’t in line with God’s Word. And even if you’ve accepted the grace of Jesus and know you’re forgiven, you can’t forget your past…and you believe God sees all that junk about you as well.

Sisters, here is the truth: When we trust Christ and surrender to Him, our sins are both forgiven and forgotten by our precious Father! “As far as the east is from the west, so far has He removed our transgressions from us” (Psalm 103:12). They are “cast in the depths of the sea” (Micah 7:19) never to be drudged up—so let’s not do any fishing either. 

Even more miraculous and wonderful is the fact that we are made new when we accept the gift of salvation. “The old has passed away.” Do you know what that means? When the Lord looks at us, He sees pure righteousness and perfection because of the blood of Jesus. No past errors, no bad habits, no dirty sin. We are made white as snow. New. And if someone were to ask God to describe you—yes, you—He would say this: “Oh, isn’t she beautiful? Because of My Son, she shines like the sun.” 

So, think about this next time someone asks you about yourself. Or, better yet, grab onto that truth when the enemy of our souls, Satan, comes at you with all-too-familiar accusations, like, “Don’t forget about all your failures,” and, “You’ll never be good enough.”Stand firm, sister, and respond with boldness: “I am a daughter of the King, and I am a new creation in Him.”

So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.

John 8:36

Freedom.
We think of nations
Of rights,
Government-given
And God-ordained.
 
We pledge allegiance,
Embrace patriotism.
Some fight to keep it,
And die so others live in it.
 
But there’s a freedom
That’s above nationality,
Beyond borders.
Individual freedom
Transcending this world.
 
Freedom 
From addiction,
From loneliness,
From depression,
From self.
 
And Someone suffered,
Dying a brutal death
To win this freedom.
One paid the price
For all.
For you.
 
Jesus conquered death,
Breaking the bondage
To sin in this world.
Through Him 
Our chains fall.
And we can live.
 
In freedom.

I am weary with my moaning; every night I flood my bed with tears; I drench my couch with my weeping.

Psalm 6:6

Problems. Challenges. Trials and tribulations. These were all promised us in this life by the Lord Himself. Sadly, there are some Christians who believe (and teach) that being a Christ-follower means your life is all rosy—and if it’s not, it’s because you lack trust and faith. But the truth is, all we have to do is open any of the Bible’s 66 books to see otherwise. 

When those hard, painful times do come, and we turn to our Christian sisters for support, often we are given pillow-stitched verses in response. Of course, turning to the Word is a must, and the intentions of our friends are noble and good…

…but we know these things! We do trust that God is Sovereign. We are absolutely confident that He works all things for good in our lives (Rom 8:28). So, it’s not that we are unaware of God’s promises, we just need another form of comfort in these times.

In fact, sometimes these words of “support” can be frustrating when we simply just need to be in the pain. Even with the knowledge of God’s Truths, sometimes, like David in Psalm 6, we just need to cry. We need to feel our God-given emotions, cleansing our mind, heart, and soul. Even the Author of the Word—the Word made flesh—wept (John 11:35). Yes, Jesus, fully human and fully God, expressed His sorrow with tears.

So, sisters, when a friend reaches out to us with devastating news or a newly inflicted grief, let’s not automatically react with a familiar verse in an effort to spread balm. Instead, let’s follow Paul’s instruction from Romans 12:15 and “weep with those who weep.” Then, with tears mingling and the weight of sorrow shared, pray with her. For comfort and wisdom. For strength to hold tightly to the Rock that will sustain her amid the storm.

And don’t forget that the same is true when the agony is your own. It’s OK to call out to God with your frustration and distress. It’s OK to be certain of your faith in His plan and question the pain…and it’s certainly OK to cry.

For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.

Ephesians 2:8-9

What would you pay for peace of mind? Maybe you’re willing to pay double for a pair of shoes you know will last—and be comfortable. Or, you hire a contractor that gave you the highest bid because he was referred by someone you love and trust. Perhaps that peace comes with sacrificing the good to wait on the better. Peace can cost us a lot.

Recently, I spent money (and time off from work) for a diagnosis that would determine whether I’d (a) have peace or (b) start a new journey of medical procedures. It’s important to note that I do not go to the doctor unless life or limb is at risk. So, for me to even consider this appointment, you can be sure my mind and heart were anxious. Praise the Lord, the result was aligned with my hope and prayer. I simply went home with less money in my account and a receipt that could very well have read, “Peace of mind, paid in full.”

And as I drove home, it struck me…peace of mind and heart may be costly to us, but peace of spirit—true and everlasting peace—is absolutely free. The Prince of Peace, Jesus Christ, paid in full the price of our salvation with His life. We can’t earn it, work for it, or pay for it. It is a free gift. All we have to do is accept it. 

So, let me ask again. What would you pay for peace? As Jesus Himself tells us: This world will bring trouble, worry, and fear. But we can take heart! Jesus has overcome the world and its troubles to bring us peace (John 16:33). The God of extravagant mercy and grace has given us His peace that can never be taken away. And it’s completely free.

“Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.

Matthew 11:28

Sisters, I don’t know about you, but sometimes I get so tired of running the race. Earning money to live, keeping up a home (cleaning, cooking, shopping, etc.), and managing our “little ones”—whether they’re in diapers, college debt, or divorce court. Then there’s the desire to serve the Lord and the associated activity (volunteering, working at church, etc.). Oh yeah, and there’s all the mental and emotional effort involved in trying to maintain relationships, remain healthy, and stay sane through it all. 

So. Tired.

Too often, we turn our attention to things that we hope will remedy the exhaustion, like mind-numbing television shows or the latest best-selling novel. Worse yet, we self-medicate with food, alcohol, or drugs, which may bring temporary relief, but always—always—makes us ultimately feel worse. 

So, where can we find rest for our weary souls?

Jesus said, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” He implores us to give Him our burdens and learn from Him. Sure, we can talk and shout and cry to Him, unloading our weighty worries. But how does the Lord talk back? How can we “learn from Him”? Sister, Jesus is the Word (John 1:1-4). He speaks to us through the 66 books of His love letter to us. 

I know what you’re thinking…reading the Bible can easily become another to-do item on our already-long list. But it’s not meant to be! Time in God’s Word is designed to refresh us, renew our minds, and refuel our souls. Girls, God’s precious Word is the guidance we need as we navigate our life’s journey each and every day. It’s the cool glass of water handed to us as we propel ourselves along our race route. 

The Bible—the very words of Lord and Savior, Jesus—is our hiding place (Psalm 32:7). And God’s Word is the glue that holds us together when we’re falling apart. Run there and find your rest.

Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!

Psalm 46:10

Are you a “list person”? As for me, not only do I incessantly make lists, but if I do something that’s not on my list, I will write it on there just so I can cross it off. It’s so satisfying—am I right?

The problem comes when I feel the need to jot down what I think should be on other people’s lists…and then hound them (to their face or in my own mind) until each item is completed. The way I believe it should be completed. These are some of the signs of a control freak.

We all may be able to relate with the above scenario surrounding, say, household chores (clothes-folding methods, vacuum patterns, etc.). But what about the bigger issues of life? A child’s academic dedication (or lack thereof) in high school, or the way a friend is handling a marital problem. Or, what about the choices being made by college-age or adult children—kids you “raised in the church” and who have professed their faith, but now they’re walking far from the Lord?

Sisters, here are some hard words to hear (and I’m telling them to myself): We have to let go of trying to control others. We can share our wisdom and truth from God’s word. We can communicate how we’d handle the situation at hand, given our experience. That child, friend, or spouse may not listen or change their behavior. But. We. Cannot. Take. Control.

We can, however, pray. We can “be still and know He is God.” Give God the burden and let Him have control over the situation. (He’s got it anyway, regardless of how frequently we try to wrestle it away from Him!) When we love someone, it’s really hard not to want to take over and “fix” what’s going on. But we have a God—the Creator of the universe—Who is sovereign and able. 

So, let’s turn our eyes away from those situations we want to control and focus on the One Who has it all in the palm of His hand.

I make known the end from the beginning, from ancient times, what is still to come. I say, ‘My purpose will stand, and I will do all that I please.’

Isaiah 46:10

Do you like parades? Around the country—and world—there are parades, large and small, for almost every occasion. There are the biggies, like the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day and the Rose Bowl parades. But all year long there are processions of marching bands, floats, and clowns in tiny cars to celebrate myriad aspects of life and culture. 

And wherever we are standing alongside the parade route, we get to enjoy the sights and sounds of what’s right in front of us. Sure, we may hear the drums of an upcoming band or look down the block at a giant balloon that has passed by. But we don’t really know how many performers there will be or what the big finale is in store. No, we only have a singular perspective—a point of view.

Isn’t this just like life? We experience what’s right in front of us—and get to choose our response. We can remember and learn from what has been…and although we may have a sense of what’s coming, we’re not certain. And this can be very frustrating—am I right?

But God has an eternal perspective! He knows the beginning from the end of our lives. He is the parade Designer. 

This concept can be confusing—the thought of God’s eternal knowledge of your life. But think about a blimp (or a drone) flying over a magnificent parade. From that view, the entire parade can be seen, from grand marshal to grand finale and everything in between. This perspective also captures the crowds, standing along the route and uniquely responding to what’s right in front of them. 

Let’s consider God’s perspective of our lives in this way. We can’t see what’s coming or how it ends. But He can. He knows what’s down the line of our lives—and He wants us to cherish each moment of what’s right in front of us. Savor it, learn from it, and prepare to experience what’s next. Remember also that He has it all under control. 

So, c’mon…let’s enjoy the parade.