Along The Trail

splashes of grace

With focus, intention and creativity, his brush glides across the paper leaving a splash of color on the expanse.

Much like Daddy. May His splashes of grace fill the expanse of our today!

Listology // 4 reminders bringing renewal

When we find ourselves depleted from life's offerings we need to notice what we are feasting on. The emptiness comes when we aren't finding the substance of the Life-Giver. He is our Daily Bread. Anything else won't ever satisfy! Below are 4 reminders that may not be new to you, but may renew you. (taken from 2 Corinthians 5:16-21.) 

1. Finding Newness. Like a spring rain washing away winter's dirt, leaving the forest bright green and deep brown, almost breathing an audible sigh of relief to be made new again. Being in Christ makes us new. I can definitely use a little renewing!

2. Restored to friendship. Like a loner bullied by the world, encountering the deepest and truest friend possible, being known and accepted. Being in Christ restores us to friendship with God. Slightly mind-blowing and completely rejuvenating! 

3. Clearing the air. Like motor oil in fish gills, heavy and suffocating is the stain on my heart. Until I come to understand He doesn't count my flaws against me, but frees me from them. Being in Christ breathes new life into our beings. The fresh breath is freeing! 

4. Trusted with a mission. Like a little boy at his dad's side, doing "man's work", finding trust, growing confidence, and purpose. Being in Christ sends us on mission to share the truth of the above to those we encounter in our living. Living on purpose is exhilarating!

Dwelling on these truths today may help you find a bit of renewal! May you find satisfaction in Christ alone today!

when empty isn't good enough

Here I am in that time of year again. The time when work seems never ending and details pile on me like scales on a fish. My creativity feels stale. Writing and sharing in this space feels dry. Inspiration normally found in taking pictures dies out as my camera sits idly on the shelf. I feel too hurried to listen to His whispers, to see Him around me. Life feels blurry. My mind feels toasted. My heart feels clogged. So what's the solution? How do I embrace the moments in the hectic, overworked seasons of life? How do I keep from becoming completely worn down?

The secret lies in remaining open to being filled up. Filled up by the One who awaits the lavishing of His presence. In His presence is joy, assurance, strength, peace. By bending my heart's attitude toward Him amidst the stale, blurry and hectic moments of life, I gain His perspective of hope. How is it that the simplest things are the most overlooked and feel the hardest?

As I sit at my computer this morning grappling with words and feelings and truths, my mind hurts, my chest feels wound tightly, my heart is panting for peace. Knowing God's presence is my greatest need, I turn the worn pages of His Word and allow His hope to drip into the parched places, His light to fill the empty places. I find myself quieted by His love. Within the simple act of opening to Him, I find Him filling me. 

finding anchor

Whether or not the details get done, the questions get answered, the path smooths out, my soul finds a steadfast hold, an anchor to the only true and living God. In such hope there is peace.

Whatever you're holding out for today, may your soul find anchor in the harbor of God's love.