Not Just Another Monday

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As we begin this new week, may we rise up each day with joyful expectation and watchful hearts so we don’t miss the miraculous beauty and moving moments our Heavenly Father pours out on us – strengthening us to tackle every task with excellence and passionate artistry.

May we be “just like our Daddy”. He is our Amazing Creator.

So, may we walk into this week looking to create beauty: leaving every place we step better than we found it rather than just trying to make it through and get things done.

Father, open our hearts to see the beauty, and empower our wills and our spirits to add to it.  In Jesus Name….

Mindset Matters: Weather Checks Before Running and Other Such Nonsense

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Time to get back out and excercise. Wait… first, let me check the weather.

But for someone reason this morning I asked myself, “Why do I check the weather before I head outside to exercise?”

To be honest…  before these thoughts this morning my “pre-run weather checks” were really the time I took to find an excuse not to do what I need to do.  Evidence of this is the fact that I haven’t gone running in weeks even though I actually like to run and feel and function oh-so-much better when I do.  “Hmmmm….” go my thoughts, “It’s a little too hot or a little too cold. Wait!! Is that a raindrop?!??   Better wait for better weather!”

STOP IT, TRACY!! (And yes, I meant to use italicized all caps right there. Sometimes I need to yell at myself).  No more making time to find excuses. Of course I do need to check the weather. I live in North Texas. Within the same week I may need to wear rain gear, shorts and a tank top, or a parka. But my mindset for my weather check needs to be “How do I need to prepare for what I’m about to do?” instead of “Why I probably shouldn’t do this today.”

So, see you in a bit. I’m headed outside to become a better version of me. Join me??

When You’re in the Battle Line…

And no, I am not talking about the lines for Black Friday shopping.  That is one battle I’m choosing not to fight this year – LOL!

However, if you’re breathing …. sooner or later you will experience a battle for your very soul.   The enemy in this battle will try to rob you of your joy, peace, and maybe even your sanity.  But the good news is:  You don’t have to go into that battle unarmed.  And when you put on the whole armor of God, not only will you survive what you never thought you could – you will also conquer and become a glorious story of grace.

So, I would encourage you….  If you feel like you’re in a battle line today, do not be passive.  Instead, actively engage in worshipping God – not only praising Him, but also declaring words of truth over yourself, your heart, and your situation.  This quote from Holley Gerth says it well:  “Worship is an act of War against the enemy of our hearts.”
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LIFE Lessons From Along the Jogging Trail

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“You are the light that shines for the world to see. You are like a city built on a hill that cannot be hidden.” – Matthew 5:14 Easy to Read Version (“ERV”)

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“God raised Jesus from death. And if God’s Spirit lives in you, He will also give life to your bodies that die. Yes, God is the one who raised Christ from death, and He will raise you to LIFE through His Spirit living in you.” – Romans 8:15 ERV

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“So when we were baptized, we were buried with Christ and took part in His death. And just as Christ was raised from death by the wonderful power of the Father, so we can now live a new life.” – Romans 6:4 ERV