Last week as I was reading a book, I read a short sentence that really resonated with me. The words have been on my mind since encountering them. It read, “Why did the everyday-ness of my life sometimes feel constricting when the everyday-ness was everything?”. 

Sometimes it can feel like every day is the same. Every day I get up at the same time. I go through the same routine to get ready for my day. I go to the same office, to do the same job with the same people. I return to the same home with my same family, do the same evening routines before bed only to get up the next day and start it all again. 

As I scroll through my social media feed and see all the wonderful things that other people are doing, I can easily find myself filled with envy as I compare my ordinary days to their special ones. The thing is, we post the highlights, but we LIVE in the everyday. We may long for the next adventure, but God does His most amazing work as we serve Him in the ordinary moments of our lives.

I sure needed this reminder of the importance of our everyday-ness. It reminded me, and I hope it reminds you too, to rejoice and be grateful for all the ways God works in us and through us in the simplicity and everyday-ness of our lives. 

“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” -1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

**The quote is from the book Becoming Mrs. Lewis by Patti Callahan

1 Peter 5:6-7

“Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that He may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.”

Being humble under God’s mighty hand, means to know His way works better than ours. When we try to go our own way, we become selfish. Being selfish leads to being prideful. Being prideful leads to sin, and sin will separate us from God.

Pride can and will destroy us. In Daniel chapter 4, we see just how destructive pride can be. Pride keeps us from admitting when we are wrong, and it will rob us of the clarity of God’s plan for our life. You will never regret killing your pride and being soft hearted.

Pride can also block the grace that we have been extended by Jesus, and the grace that He asks us to give to others. To humble ourselves to God means to submit to His will and know we can’t solve our problems and addictions on our own. God has a plan for us and it is a perfect plan. He will cancel our plans to save our lives. His plans are always better than ours.

As Paul writes in Philippians 4:11, when we learn to be content in whatever circumstances we find ourselves, that’s when God works in our life. In verse seven, Peter tells us to cast every single worry onto the Lord because He cares for us. Verse six tells us to humble ourselves, and verse seven tells us why we should: to know we need Christ in times of struggle.

God will take whatever we are dealing with into His own hands as long as we trust in him. Give him your worries and accept His peace, and He will give you rest. He will carry you and make a way. He always does.

We have to know that we need God during the good times and the bad. If we try to go our own way, He will knock us on our backs to humble us so our hearts will become soft for Him. God will let you hit rock bottom, so you will realize He IS the rock at the bottom.

That’s what is so good about God! He is good all the time. The song comes to my mind, “He’s a good, good Father”. Even though we sin, He gives us grace upon grace, and He never leaves us, even during the hard stuff. We find the best things just sitting with Jesus. His timing is always perfect.

Let me begin with a funny story. Around 30 years ago, two friends and myself decided we were going to sunbathe on a boat that was in shallow water near the shore.  The boat belonged to one of the families we were camping with that weekend. The husbands and children were hanging out by the campers  riding bikes, snacking, playing games, etc.

 So there we were, just moms, relaxing on a boat soaking up some rays without a care in the world.  We spent time having those conversations girlfriends have and of course had all the laughs that go along with that kind of opportunity.  We settled into the warmth of the sun, the gentle swaying lulled us into a state of sluggishness until one friend lifted up her head to look around and noticed we had slowly drifted out away from the area close to the shore. Actually, quite a bit away from the shore. Easy fix right? Just start the boat. However,  it was a “Houston, we have a problem” moment because no one knew how to start, much less, drive the boat!

Our plan was to wave at boats that came anywhere close to us. We assumed someone would see and ride in closer to see what we needed. Well, that wasn’t happening. We waved to passing boats only to get waves returned as they passed by without any knowledge of the help we needed.  But then, we noticed something in the water. It was coming from the area of our campground. As it got closer, we were able to see that it was one of our husbands swimming out to us. I say swimming,  he was lying  atop of one of the kids’ giant alligator floats, paddling with arms and legs as fast as he could. What a sight! But definitely a welcomed sight. He was our hero that day bringing us back to the shore. 

I love the way God can take these events, these moments in time, and bring them to my recollection to give me a smile as I remember some great times with great friends. And oh, what lessons He can teach me through them!

When I think about what it took to get ourselves so far away from the shore, the only answer I could come up with was – it required nothing from us. The natural force of the current pushed us along away from the shore.  Now, had we made sure we were anchored securely in place or tied to something on shore …  but you probably already went there.

I thought about the daily currents in my own life that sometimes can quietly pull me away. I can get distracted with concerns and get caught up in my never ending  “things I want to accomplish” list.  If I don’t pay attention, days can go by and I’ve allowed  prayer and time in God’s Word to become distant. The next thing I know, I’m overwhelmed, dragged out into rough waters and in need of rescue. 

Psalm 107:28-30 “Lord, help!” they cried in their trouble, and he saved them from their distress. He calmed the storm to a whisper and stilled the waves. What a blessing was that stillness as he brought them safely into harbor!

That summer memory serves as a reminder that if I stay tied to Him, I will find security in life’s currents, but even on days and times I find myself drifting too far, Jesus is always willing to rescue me. He is faithful to gently pull me back to the shore.

“Let all that you do in love” (1 Corinthians 16:14).

I have always loved this verse; it is my mom’s favorite verse. As I was reading this passage, I thought to myself, “How much different would the world be if every single person did everything they did out of love?” it would look a lot different – that’s for sure! It all starts with you – if you start treating everyone around you with love, they will notice, which is like a chain reaction. So, start today. Help in your community, smile at strangers, and be a friend to the people around you. Be an example to the people around you of who Jesus is. You never know – you might be the only one they see who does.

Consider the impact this can have. When we act from a place of love, we spread kindness, compassion, and understanding. This can uplift those around us who are struggling, comfort those who are hurting, and inspire those who feel lost. Imagine the ripple effect of small acts of love: a kind word, a helping hand, or a listening ear. No matter how small, these acts can change someone else’s day and, potentially, their entire aspect of life.

Furthermore, living out this verse aligns with Jesus’ teaching “A new command I give you: love you another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another” (John 13:34). Jesus sets the perfect example of love – selfless, unconditional, and transformative. By following His example, we honor His command and bring His presence into our world. This love transcends barriers, mends broken relationships, and builds stronger communities.

Acting out of love is a radical yet profoundly simple way to make a difference in a world that can often feel divided and harsh. Each day presents countless opportunities to live out this command. Whether it’s through volunteering, offering a sincere compliment, or simply listening to someone with empathy, every action rooted in love helps lead to a more compassionate world.

So, let us embrace this call to love fully. Let us become beacons of love and light in our homes, workplaces, and communities. In doing so, we not only transform the lives of those around us but also our own hearts, drawing closer to Jesus’ teachings and the heart of God.

The Unconditional Love of God

”See how very much our Father loves us, for he calls us his children”

1 John 3:1 NLT

One morning I was sitting on the couch reading my devotional while my 14 month old played on the floor with her toys. She was in a a particularly great mood this morning, which I was grateful for because that is not always the case! At one moment she stopped playing, looked up at me and just smiled. I had two words immediately pop in my head, “Unconditional Love”. The thoughts of love from a parent to a child began to cross my mind, I know that my kids could do nothing to separate themselves from my love. One day they will disappoint me, break my heart and make me angry at times. Parents of teenagers or grown children know this better than me! But, they can never do anything to separate themselves from my love. I know I would do anything to comfort and nurture my children, and their daddy would do anything to protect them.

”So if you sinful people know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give good gifts to those who ask him.“

Matthew 7:11 NLT

”And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God’s love. Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow—not even the powers of hell can separate us from God’s love. No power in the sky above or in the earth below—indeed, nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord.“

Romans 8:38-39 NLT

This feeling I had while looking at my daughter opened up my eyes to the truth and depth of the love of God! If I as a sinful person know how to love my children and give them good gifts, how much more does our Father love us? It’s a love we can’t understand and we can’t always comprehend, but I felt I was given a glimpse of revelation to the depth of “the love of God that is revealed through Christ Jesus our Lord.” (Rom. 8:39) An unconditional love that we can’t be separated from… No matter your past mistakes, or maybe your current mistakes, He loves you! You are His creation, His masterpiece, His beloved. He knows the worries of your heart and He cares, because you are His child.

“Jesus loves me this I know, for the Bible tells me so…” 🤍

Last Sunday I was able to attend my son’s church where they were honoring graduating seniors. 👏🏻👏🏻

During the sermon the pastor said something that got me good.

He said, “Give your energy to God.” Shots fired, Pastor Billy.

Shots fired.

You see – I’m a middle aged working mom, and in my best cornbread Daisy accent, I ain’t got no energy.

But that statement marinated in my mind for the rest of the day.

“Give your energy to God.”

Where are we putting the majority of our energy? Is God just getting our leftovers? How can we give God the energy He deserves and desires when we are literally on the verge of a catastrophic burnout.

Dramatic, I know. But it’s May, and I’m a mom with school aged kids.

It’s quite easy actually – seek Him.

Spend time with Him.

Bask in His presence.

Focus on Him.

Rest in Him.

Let God energize you from the inside out. He will. And when He does, use that energy for His Kingdom.

“For God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases him.” Philippians 2:13

Those of us graduating our last kiddo were asked to share words of wisdom with fellow moms at one of our monthly co-op meetings. This is what I shared. I know it’s targeted to homeschool, but mommas – I think we can apply a lot of this to many areas of motherhood.

I’m not sure I have “words of wisdom” but I can tell you what I wish I wouldn’t have worried so much about.

▪️I worried I would fail my child if I homeschooled her.

▪️I worried about curriculum.

▪️I worried about her social interactions.

▪️I worried about our older two daughters and not homeschooling them.

▪️I worried about community for myself.

Now a little back story for all of these worries.

A long time ago, my best friend kept dropping little nuggets about homeschooling. I was 1000% that mom that said “there is no way I can do that.” But my friend, in her own Amy Vonfeldt way kept planting those seeds. Then when Brooklynn was in 3rd grade, she began begging to be homeschooled.

If it wasn’t for Amy dropping those little nuggets, planting that seed, cheering me on and telling me “yes you can” there is no way I could confidently stand here today and say – I am a homeschool momma who didn’t fail.

I was so worried about being judged by how we parented each child. Our older two girls were already established in school. Courtnie was in high school and Emma was fixing to be. What works for one, doesn’t always work for the other. And that’s a true statement.

I stressed and stressed and stressed over curriculum. Mommas of littles, don’t stress. Just ask another homeschool mom what works best for their child. Try it out, if it works, great. If it doesn’t, well that’s ok. The beauty of homeschool is there’s a lot of room for trial and error.

I worried about her social interactions. That was silly of me. She was involved in plenty of things and is just fine.

Now on to community for myself.

After homeschooling for a bit, Amy said,“Hey, I brought this application home for you to fill out. Fill it out and I will bring it back for you.” She knew I would have talked myself out of turning it in. It was for Grace Co-op. She said I think it would be fantastic for Brooklynn.

Our first year at Grace Co-op was rocky. That November of 2019 I lost my momma unexpectedly. I was new at Grace, but that didn’t stop a lot of the mommas from loving on my family. Women I barely knew provided food, hugs, and prayer. I will never forget being at my mom’s visitation and I look up to see Mrs Katha & Mr Vick. I know I told Amy a million times “Wow, I can’t believe they came”. She said, “Yes, that’s what they do.” It all truly blessed me and my family more than I could ever express. That was community for myself. Also, I’m sorry I never sent out thank you notes. 😉

A few months went by and if you live with grief you understand the brain fog that it gives you. I have no idea how we got through those next few months but we did and it brought us to spring of 2020 with the pandemic. School had to close, and we all had to stay home. I was in such a bad place mentally, physically, and emotionally because of grief, and I pretty much had my mind made up that we would not be returning the next year. But then one of Brooklynn’s teachers turned it all around for her and myself. I have never told her this but because of her weekly zoom meetings and her love for that class, that little act of service brought so much joy and hope to Brook and to myself. Brooklynn was so excited and looked forward to those every single week. So, Vicki Pineda thank you. Truly.

Again, community.

Now, here we are, fixing to graduate our baby. And looking back, wow…all that worrying for nothing. “Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” Matthew 6:34 .

Honor begins at home. Your family is your first ministry. The kiddos come first, not the school work. “Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it” Proverbs 22:6.

When we got Elijah (our foster baby for those of you who don’t know who I am talking about ) Brooklynn wrote on a chalkboard hanging up in our kitchen – the greatest difference you can make on a child’s life is to love them. So love them well and with His truth.

We see the evidence of his goodness all over Brooklynn’s life. She has a foundation she can grow from, her roots run deep, and she knows exactly who she is in Christ. She knows what she wants and does not want to do with her future and all of this brings Jeff and I so much peace. We are beyond proud.

Pour into your kiddos. Read the Bible with them, teach them all the Jesus things, pray with them and for them, and remind them every single day you have their back.

Teach them about Grace and love, forgiveness and humility, and loyalty. Teach them about serving others.

Don’t worry yourself sick over structured days, schedules, etc!

If you need to take something off your plate, give yourself permission. It’s not about perfection. It’s about being present.

I would tell the me who was afraid and worried, “Tiffany, you have all you need. He has equipped you abundantly.”

Enjoy the journey mommas. It will be you here before you know it.

Two paths

”See, I have set before you today life and good, death and evil.“

Deuteronomy 30:15 ESV

”“Enter by the narrow gate. For the gate is wide and the way is easy that leads to destruction, and those who enter by it are many.“

Matthew 7:13 ESV

”And as they were frightened and bowed their faces to the ground, the men said to them, “Why do you seek the living among the dead?“

Luke 24:5 ESV

”Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, not only as in my presence but much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling,“

Philippians 2:12 ESV

I read a book called “Practicing the Way” by John Mark Comer. It was very thought provoking. Since even before I read it I have been hung up on the two ways. One that leads to life and one that leads to death.

Recently Pastor Billy used a scripture I hadn’t thought of in this context. “Why do you seek the living among the dead?” Of course this is at the tomb and Jesus had risen, but couldn’t I say of course Jesus has risen to a lot of things in life? Why do I seek happiness among the things He has conquered? Why do I reach out to the world for satisfaction? IT’S NOT THERE. The world is death not life.

God told the Israelites that two ways were set before them. They didn’t get it. Jesus tells us of two gates, one wide and one narrow. Do I get it? Do we as a church get it? It’s narrow. It’s Jesus.

I’m not talking works even though that is part of it. I’m talking obedience and living a life that honors the One who gave it all. A life that shouts and shines Jesus to people.

Working out my salvation with fear and trembling is real and Paul ties it to obedience.

Repentance, obedience, dying to self is the life we are called to and that sounds harsh and no fun, but it is actually exciting and joy filled. Practicing the way of Christ is fulfilling in a way nothing else can be.

Thank You Jesus for being the way.