Devotional: To Be Grateful

There are times where I don't feel as grateful as I could. I struggle some days. I'll think about how things could be better. But, then I remember. I have a lot to be grateful for. I'm able to keep going and do what needs to be done. And that's really all I want when it comes right down to it. I don't need much to be content. And I've had it way, way worse, so I'm okay right now. Of course, there are days where I wish I felt better. I'm sure a lot of people feel this way. It seems like so many are suffering with mental and physical health issues.

I also know that you shouldn't feel ashamed for not feeling grateful. Especially, if you're in a hard place. I certainly wasn't when I was struggling. I wished all the time for a better life. As of now, I've had to fight hard to be where I am. But during those times, I knew that feeling sad, disappointed, and upset were completely normal to experience. I wanted what appeared to be good blessings in other people's lives. I wanted what they had. It was hard to accept, but I knew that my life was different. I wasn't them, and they weren't me. 

Life is not always what we see either. I may appear to be doing well, and I am in some ways. But I struggle a lot with my health. Each day is a challenge. There are days where I wish I could stay in bed. It's not easy what I'm doing. But, I keep pushing forward because I have to, and I still pursue the things that bring me joy. It's something that I have to do in order to feel like my life is normal again. I don't want to survive, I want to live. That's why I work hard. That's why I write, blog, work, and take lessons. I can't not do anything.

I guess that's why I'm constantly learning to be grateful. I try to appreciate the good things even if they're small. And truly, it's those things that keep me going. I live for the beautiful sunsets, the flowers, soft-kitty purrs, and laughter with the ones I love. It's those things that keep me going, and I'm eternally grateful for them. Ultimately, they bring me joy - which reminds me to be content and at peace. And I'm just so grateful to God for all those blessings He gives in my life. I also hope that you may receive them, as well. 💓

"Whatever you do in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through Him to God the Father." - Colossians 3:17 NASB

Many blessings,
- Grace Thorson

Book Spotlights: A Poem From Butterfly Wings

Today, I thought I'd share a poem from my book. Butterfly Wings is a personal collection of 30 poems and devotions. It's my first book. At this moment, I had an idea to offer a poem to my readers on this blog. I hope you enjoy the poem! There's 29 more within the book. All different themes to them. The book itself is a project born out of sorrow and joy. I felt like I needed to write it for anyone that needed hope. And I really enjoyed putting it together. 💙 This is kind of a secret, but I may write a second one. I'm going to pray about it first!

No Fear

I used to live in fear,
Would often shed a tear,
But no more this year.

No fear, I have rest,
Not from me, only the best,
From Heaven - this is a test.

No fear, He has me,
I already know, can see,
That I just have to be.

No fear, I'm loved,
But it's from high above,
Didnt' have to force it - shoved.

Finally, the quiet is here,
No more fear, not even a tear,
Peace - see, breathe, and hear.

I'm done, it's all over,
Clean from this; perfectly sober,
From the pain - no more, Grace

If you'd like to read the rest of my book, you can find it at the bookstore ...And Books, Too! It's also available on Amazon in paperback and kindle. Plus, if you'd like to learn more, you can visit my pages for my book and my ministry. Thank you! Really appreciate your support.

Many blessings,
- Grace Thorson

Devotional: God's Ways Are Higher

We might assume we know what God is thinking. We also may proclaim how God does things in the lives of this world. Nothing could be further from the truth. God is not us. He's God. His thoughts and ways are not the same as ours. We might presume to know them, but that's it. That's as far as we can get. We can't control God. We can't control His thoughts or His ways. The world often gets into trouble with this. It even likes to speak for Him, but that can be dangerous. God is not bound by us. Nothing can bind His thoughts. He's I AM.

Honestly, we can forget that God is all-powerful and all-knowing. We shouldn't try to figure Him out, because that's not possible. We can, of course, love Him. We can grow close. But since He's deep and holy, I don't think we can ever be able to know Him completely. I do mean, when we see His creation and everything that exists because of Him, we remember that He's vast. He's not simple. And since He's all-powerful, we can't possibly predict Him. We also must not assume for Him. Now, God can give us words, but they're His, not ours.

Our thinking is limited compared to His. People seem to forget this. His thoughts are so far that it's compared to the height of the heavens from the earth. That's how different and long they are. This actually should give us comfort. We can trust Him because He knows much better. Remember, He knows all. And it's good that He's not like us in His ways and thoughts. On the other side, we came from God. He created us, so yes, we get a likeness from Him. But we're not infinite like Him. He's holy. He's God. He's I AM. Remember this.

When we don't know what God is doing in our lives, it can be excruciatingly hard. But we know that He loves us. He cares for us. This world is not what it should be because of sin, so we have to live with this mess. But we know that God is trustworthy. I don't know about you, but I'm going to trust Him, because He's got a plan. I don't, and my own plans aren't particularly good. I also love how He's God. I'm not powerful. I can't control anything. In the end, He's got you, and He's got me. That's all I need in this world to feel at peace.

God's ways are higher.

"For My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways My ways," declares the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways and My thoughts than your thoughts." - Isaiah 55:8-9 NASB

Many blessings,
- Grace Thorson

One-Year Anniversary: My Blog Turns 1

 
My blog made it to its one-year anniversary. A lot has happened during that one year. I started my blog with hopes that it would reach others. The Facebook page has grown during that time. Thanks to you! With the growth, I've reached restaurants, authors, and many different places. In this, I've enjoyed spotlighting people and their work. It's been an exciting year, but not without some difficulty. I've fought hard to keep my blog going. There were a few weeks or days where no posts were done. But I was determined to forge ahead, not letting anything stop me. And here we are! It's turned one - a whole year.

The photo collage above that I created is a look back at photos on my blog. I've come through a fire that almost destroyed our home, health issues with my family, and my own personal struggles. It hasn't been easy. But with God by our side, we conquered those days. I'm hoping that I can continue to write in the days to come. I don't know what the future holds, but I know who holds the future. God will be with me, and so, I won't be afraid. I'll keep going. I plan to spotlight more people and businesses. Take lots of new photos, share my stories, and hopefully reveal a new book. It's all coming this year or the next.

In my blog, I've had photo quests, author interviews, guest writers, business spotlights, book reviews, devotionals, and much more. I even had a Christmas advent calendar in December. My Facebook page has grown from one follower to more than a hundred. I've watched it grow, and in turn, I've found growth, as well. I've burst out of my shell and social anxiety to spotlight people and their businesses. I've done things that I wouldn't normally do. Those days have been filled with anxiety. But it was so worth it, and I really want to push myself more for another year of blogging. I'm optimistic about everything.

As we go forward, I would like to thank my fellow wanderers. I always enjoy the comments that are left on my blog posts and on my Facebook page. I look forward to encouraging and hopefully, inspiring other readers. I want my blog to help, reach, and motivate those that need it. You're always welcome here! And I'm also open to any ideas, too. I love to hear what people think. If you haven't followed my Facebook page here for Wandering With Grace, I'm trying to reach 150 followers. Once I do, there will be a small Facebook giveaway on that page. So, please, if you can, follow! Thank you so much! 💓

Let's do a few more years together.

Many blessings,
- Grace Thorson

Devotional: Seeing Flowers Fade

As much as we want flowers to stay alive, they often fade away. All plants appear to age and withdraw from life at some point in their existence. Their fragile beauty is something that I keep in my heart. And I look forward to them blooming each spring and summer. But can I completely count on them? No, unfortunately. Many earthly things can destroy them, and they can fade indefinitely. You know what doesn't fade? God's Word. It cannot be destroyed. His Word stands forever. Nothing can take His Word. Absolutely nothing.

Because God's Word is eternal, I can rely on it. We can all hold His words within our heart, mind, and soul. He can also speak into existence anything with His powerful voice. He can create with His words. He can do anything! His words that also were spoken through His Word - the Bible, will happen. They will take place in history. His words are unchanging, too. They won't fade, I promise. They cannot. This is something that encourages me, especially during my hard times. I know that I can hold onto hope with His words. 

Sometimes, though, we might want to hold tightly to what we see in the world. Earthly things seem tangible. And they might but won't last long. I know that God's creation is beautiful and inspiring. I, too, look forward to the flowers blooming. But we may find ourselves in a place that's devoid of flowers. And if we do, we can remember God's Word. It can give us what we need during that time. Flowers can bring beauty into our lives, but they cannot always heal us. That's when we need to switch to His life-giving words.

Take the time today to read God's Word. He may want to speak with you. Today, I pray that you receive wisdom and peace from reading His words. If you listen intently, you may hear His voice. It may even come as a soft whisper or as strong thunder. I truly, highly encourage memorizing some verses, too. Remember, God's Word will stand forever. The enemy may try to destroy it every chance he gets, but he'll fail. Nothing can, or ever will, make God's Word fade. I can promise that. I can also promise that He can speak to you through it.

Seeing flowers fade. God's Word eternal.

"The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God stands forever." - Isaiah 40:8 NASB

Many blessings,

- Grace Thorson

Devotional: Spring Brings Hope

Spring officially starts tomorrow. I've been looking forward to it, and I'm sure that many others have, too. Out of all of the seasons, though, spring seems to be special. There's just something about it. I think it's because of the symbolism behind it. It's a season of rebirth, birth, and hope. It's also when everything comes alive. The flowers bloom, which is one of my favorite parts. Because of that, spring is my second-loved season. I love walking outside with my camera to take pictures of the birds, flowers, and yes, even bugs. This season itself awakens something inside me. I can't quite explain it, but it's wonderful.

Hope. It's what spring brings with it. A new beginning. Whenever this season enters my life, I get excited. I start planning, organizing, and preparing for the future. I look forward with anticipation of what God has waiting for me. Sure. Hard things can still happen, but I want to water the garden that's also within me. I guess that's what I'm trying to explain about how I feel with spring. Not only are there flowers blooming outside, but within my heart, as well. That garden is a lovely feeling all-together, and I know that God is preparing my heart for what's ahead. I can then tend to my growing garden within, too.

I know right now a lot of people need hope. I remember going through some of the toughest days without it myself, and it didn't matter to me if it was spring or not. I wish that I would've held onto hope, even if it felt like there was none. It may not have changed my situation, but maybe it would've helped me more in some way. The first time I went through hardship, I was devoid of hope. I couldn't believe things could get better. They did. But a second time came around, and once again, no hope. I'm in a better place now, but I still struggle. And maybe, things will get hard again. But I'll have hope this time.

If you're struggling, I pray that you find hope in your life. Even if it's in the small things. Even if you have to take one day at a time. Spring is coming, even so, an eternal spring someday. I hold onto both. And the hope of God. I know that I can still cling to His hope. I'm not giving it up. If you ever need hope yourself, read scripture, you'll find it there. It's also in the small, everyday things of life. Looking at the sky or at a flower, reminds me of hope. It's there. I promise. It even seems like the world itself is looking for some kind of hope. My wish is that many people will find it because God is hope's answer.

Spring brings hope.

"The blossoms have already appeared in the land; the time has arrived for pruning the vines, and the voice of the turtledove has been heard in our land." - Song of Solomon 2:12 NASB

Many blessings,
- Grace Thorson

Devotional: Love Your Enemies

Some, or a lot of us have enemies. They're the ones trying to ruin our lives. Or even worse, destroy them. And maybe some of us wish for justice to come swiftly for our enemies. We also might begin to hate them ourselves. Remember, the hate that drove them to hurt you can drive you to hate them back. Are we supposed to hate them, though? No, we're not. We're actually told to love them. And it doesn't matter what they've done, we can't hate.

Jesus is our example of what to do when we're surrounded by our enemies. Do we hurt those with the same hurt they gave us? We'd be like them, and we don't want to do that. Will your enemy stop harassing you if you show them love? I don't know, but all we can do is try. Because of Jesus, we're different from our enemies. We're actually told to love those that persecute us. I know that's hard, but it releases us from their earthly harm.

It's important to know that they can't take that freedom from your spirit. They can't make you hate them. Nothing that they can do will keep you from being loved by Jesus. Watch out, though. Satan may try to use your enemies to hurt or kill you, but he won't win. You may face hardship, but Jesus has you. All we need to do is love. Love everyone we can. Give your love to anyone you come across. It might just change their hearts.

If you're facing a battle today, know that you're not alone. Unfortunately, we're constantly bombarded by hate. In this world, we're told to look down on others. Don't fall into the same trap. And be careful. You don't want to become someone's enemy. Be a peace-giver instead. Love all that come in contact with you. Be like Jesus to those that hate. We can only change the world with our love. Make it a radical point to love your enemies. 

Be radical. Love those that hate you.

"But I say to you who hear, love your enemies, do good to those that hate you." - Luke 6:27 NASB

Many blessings,

- Grace Thorson

Devotional: We Will Continue To Grow

As Christians, we can face harsh persecution from the devil and anyone that considers us as enemies. And of course, the hardships of this world cause strain, as well. Nothing in this life is easy. In fact, no one is given immunity. Not one of us are invincible. But do you know who is? God. When life is deafening, we can depend on Him. Collectively, as one in the faith with other believers, we only grow stronger. Nothing can stop His love from growing. 

I gain great encouragement from knowing that God has complete control. He's been here since the beginning of time (and even before). He can do anything, and He won't let His people be defeated. As one, we can never stop. We won't give in to the enemy. The devil can try all he can, but it won't work. Sure, he'll cause havoc, but he's not God. As much as he wants to be, he'll never take over. Christians will only grow, with nothing to stop them.

We're all warriors here. In this battle, all we have to do is love Him, and protect ourselves with His Word. He'll take care of the rest. With His love, we can all grow like an Iris, not even letting the cold destroy us. His warmth is all we need. The devil may try to cause us to wilt. But God is and always will be with us. And as one, we're sure to spread His love to everyone. Our growth cannot be stopped. And even throughout all of time, we're still here.

We remain, and we'll keep going. The world may harm us at times, but we're strong in the Lord. We'll win any battle forged against us. Take this as hope, my friend. God won't let His people be destroyed. In fact, we'll most likely only grow stronger. Together we can make a difference. We can win the war, but we can't do it alone. We need each other. Only then can we win the war against our enemies. And the devil won't ever win. He can't stop us.

We will continue to grow.

"The righteous person will flourish like the palm tree, he will grow like a cedar in Lebanon. Planted in the house of the Lord, they will flourish in the courtyards of our God" - Psalm 92:12-13 NASB

Do you need prayer? Send me an email at: thewanderingwithgrace@gmail.com

Many blessings,
- Grace Thorson

Guest Writer: Author Pam Thorson - If He Tells You Something Twice, He Means Business

Guest Writer: Author Pam Thorson
Subject: If He Tells You Something Twice, He Means Business

I spent the first four decades of my life raising children. It only took the first one of those

decades to discover that my vocabulary had shrunk roughly to a couple paragraphs of my

mom’s more colorful language. Since Mom grew up in the South, she knew a lot of colorful

language.

If my brother and I whined that we wanted something, she stopped the whining in its tracks with this solemn reminder:

“There’s people in hell wanting ice water.” That was Opal-speak for “No.”

Another of her favorites was a mind-bender but got the point across: “If you think you’re going to do that, you’ve got another think comin,’” which was also Opal-speak for “No.”

She highlighted her most ominous warning with a shot of side-eye and cool demeanor that told us she meant business: “Don’t make me tell you again.”

We strove to never force her to repeat herself. Mother was not one to make idle threats. Her punishments weren’t brutal or severe, but she generally followed through promptly.

Mom taught us well to obey authority, which has surely made our lives easier as adults. I’m thankful, though, for the patience of our long-suffering God. Not only does He repeat Himself often to us hard-hearted humans, He gives us time to contemplate the seriousness of our choices.

What I love the most is the way He confirms His Word to us, fearful and slow to believe as we are.

Once God has spoken;

Twice I have heard this:

That power belongs to God;

And lovingkindness is Yours, O Lord….

Psalm 62:11-12

Now as for the repeating of the dream to Pharoah twice, it means that the matter is determined by God, and God will quickly bring it about. Genesis 41:32

This is the third time I am coming to you. EVERY FACT IS TO BE CONFIRMED BY THE TESTIMONY OF TWO OR THREE WITNESSES. 2 Corinthians 13:1 (KJV)

God is not afraid to repeat Himself.

The summer of 2024 nearly took our family down. Our quadriplegic son Kevin was seriously ill for months, necessitating seven hospital stays, two life flights, fourteen ambulance rides, and four surgeries and procedures. In the middle of all that, we nearly lost our home in a wildfire, had to evacuate our property, and couldn’t return until the authorities reopened the highway.

Standing with Kevin as he fought round after round of illness under such harsh conditions, we began to crumble. We asked the community to keep praying, even as our courage wilted under the relentless trials.

During one of his hospital stays, his nurse friend came to the hospital to stay with him while I went to rest. At home, I collapsed and wandered through the social media posts I’d been too busy to read. On Facebook, someone I didn’t know posted how she had been led to pray for Kevin and had been given a Scripture for us: Psalm 27.

I read it, soaked in every word, and clung to the comfort and deliverance it offered. Thinking it might encourage Kevin, too, I texted his nurse at the hospital to see if she would read it to him.

I had barely pushed “send” when she shot a text back.

“I had just opened my Bible to read that exact passage to him when you texted me,” she wrote.

Whaaaaat?

What were the chances that I would randomly see a Scripture shared by a stranger for Kevin and happen to send it to the hospital at the exact moment his friend thought to share it with him?

Confirmed by two or three witnesses.

PSALM 27

A Psalm of Fearless Trust in God

The LORD is my light and my salvation;

Whom shall I fear?

The LORD is the defense of my life;

Whom shall I dread?

When evildoers came upon me to devour my flesh,

My adversaries and my enemies, they stumbled and fell.

Though a host encamp against me,

My heart will not fear;

Though war arise against me,

In spite of this I shall be confident.

On and on, the chapter pours out encouragement and hope, ending with this:

I would have despaired unless I had believed that I would see the goodness of the LORD In the land of the living.

Wait for the LORD;

Be strong and let your heart take courage;

Yes, wait for the LORD.

We waited. God healed Kevin slowly, in His time. We are back in the home that God spared for us, glorying in His keeping power. Life is still hard. We sing a new song, though, as He teaches us this psalm of fearless trust in Him. 

Guest Writer: Author Pam Thorson

About the Guest Writer: Pam Thorson is a nurse, author, speaker, and full-time caregiver. She is the owner/admin of a certified family home in Idaho, juggling her official duties with her love of research and writing. She is the author of four books - Song in the Night, Out from the Shadows, Arrow, and Blood Falls. You can find her books on Amazon, as well as Arrow and Blood Falls at bookstore ...And Books, Too! (andbookstooonline.com)


Her Books:

You can connect with Pam Thorson here:

Website: bloodfalls.net
Prisms Caregiving Blog: prismscaregiving.blogspot.com
Twitter: twitter.com/PamelaThorson
Facebook: facebook.com/officialpamthorson
Pinterest: pinterest.com/pamthorson/
Instagram: instagram.com/pamthorson53/

Thank you for the wonderful devotional, Pam Thorson. I always love your writing! You're so inspiring in what you do. Keep going! - Look forward to having you on again.

Many blessings,
- Grace Thorson

Wordless Wednesday: Past The Darkness

Devotional: God Is With You

I deal with fear. Fear of the world. And my own anxieties. It can be a daily thing. As I scroll through social media and the news, fear appears to be rampant everywhere. We've become unsure. Unsure of our futures, life itself, our loved ones, actually everything. Because of that, I wanted to write a devotional about fear today. I have written another devotional about fear before on this blog. You can read it here. And you know what, I felt like writing another one again. I hope this devotional encourages you as much as writing it did for me.

Fear can be an overwhelming feeling. It can follow us around wherever we go. It lurks around corners. It hides in the darkness, ready to envelope our beings. We may know what could happen to us in the future, but since we can only guess, we're not entirely sure. It's that uncertainty. It gets me every time. It's especially hard for me because of my anxiety, my need to feel in control, and the constant thinking. I'm an over-thinker, so the fears can really be hard to face. I usually try to combat it in my own way. Doesn't always work.

What works is God. Many years past, I didn't know how to deal with fear. But now, God is the answer. When I'm faced with fear, I just pass it to Him. I trust God, so I know I can rely on Him. Things could get hard, yes, but at least I won't be alone facing them. He reminds me constantly that He's with me, and that everything is going to be okay. I don't have to worry. Sure, I may still feel some fear and anxiety, but I have a way to control it - He controls it. I don't. I can go on with my life, allowing Him complete control.

When we're starting to get that prick of fear, all we have to do is seek Him out. Pray. Read His Word. Memorize scripture. Write. Talk with a trusted, Christian friend. God gave us these things, so that we could communicate with Him. He loves us. He's going to protect our souls. He's with us everywhere we go. Everywhere. He's with us at the grocery store, the movie theater, and even in the car. We're not alone, and that's a comforting thought. Remember, God will not leave us. He is with you. He is with me. You're safe.

God is with you. Always.

"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous! Do not be terrified nor dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go." - Joshua 1:9 NASB

Do you need prayer? Send me an email at: thewanderingwithgrace@gmail.com

Many blessings,
- Grace Thorson

Devotional: When The Holy Spirit Speaks

I was looking for protection and refuge from the world. I had taken a picture of the sky that evening. I wanted to share it on social media but didn't know what to say. I decided that a verse might be a good choice. I sometimes like to add them with a photo I took. I looked up verses on google for ones that meant protection or safety. I came across Psalm 46:1. It seemed well-chosen for that night. After that night, I went to work as usual in the day. I wasn't expecting anything to happen from it, but I would later find a gift.

Once I got home, I decided to do God Time. It's where I read devotionals, write, and pray. Well, I hadn't done it in a month, so I felt like I needed to, and I wanted to spend time with God again. One of the devotionals I picked up had a daily devo and a verse attached to it. I opened the devotional, and the verse written above the writing was Psalm 46:1. I couldn't believe it. It was the same verse that I had selected the night before. Was the Holy Spirit trying to talk to me? Was He confirming the verse from the night before?

That afternoon, I was struck with surprise and joy. The Holy Spirit comforted me with that verse, and now I feel completely safe within God's arms. I know He watches over me, but sometimes I still feel afraid. But He knows how I feel each day. And He protects me and encourages me with His mighty love. I'm so thankful to the Holy Spirit for giving me that verse, because now I'm going to hold tight to it. But I also felt like I needed to share it with others, so that's why I added it to my devotional today. It was meant to be shared.

God gave me some color and light again in my life. It's no longer bleak. Sure. There might be some hard days, but His love will always get me through. And I know He's with me all the time. He demonstrated it clearly. And He's with you all the time, too. Seek Him out. That's what He was saying to me, as well, and to you. Seek Him out. He's longing to hear from you, and He'll provided you with comfort through His Word. Thank you, Jesus. Thank you for comforting me with your Word. And for the ability to share it with others.

He's there for us. Waiting. The Holy Spirit speaks.

"God is our refuge and strength, a very ready help in trouble." - Psalm 46:1 NASB

Do you need prayer? Leave a comment, and I'll pray for you.

Many blessings,

- Grace Thorson 

The Gwen Fire: Life Is Growing Again

 

The Gwen fire started in July. It destroyed a lot of acres. It also destroyed homes. Our own home was in the midst of the fire. We had to evacuate. It was one of the worst days I've ever experienced. But our home survived, and I'm so incredibly thankful that it did. The people who were involved in helping save our home, I'm eternally grateful to. I still think about it, but it seems behind me now. I'm at home with my family and we're together.

Recently, the hills that were black, are turning green. It's such a beautiful sight. I'm comforted by the fact that even though the fire burned what was on the hills, new life springs forth. There's always fresh life to be expected in some form. A new beginning takes place. And every time I look at the green, I'm also reminded of God's goodness. He was there with me. He was there with us. I wasn't alone. None of us were. He was so close.

As I look back at all my family has endured, I'm thankful to God that He pulled us through. We could have lost our home. But we didn't. We were spared. Unfortunately, some homes were destroyed. I only wish that the fire hadn't happened, but it did that day. I saw God move through the process, though. He made sure that those who lost their homes, that their needs were met. He met ours through the kindness of family and friends. 💚

It's comforting. With the green hills near, I'm eager for 2025. And I pray it's an easier year for everyone. May you be encouraged, my friends. Even though we went through hardship, God was with us. The whole time. He'll be there for you, too. We're going into the new year with safety and love. He's got us protected within His hands and nothing can change that. In ending this last post of 2024, I hope my family and friends have a Happy New Years.

Many blessings,

- Grace Thorson

Christmas Blog Advent: Day 17 - Devotional: Seek Out His Peace

Peace. It's that overwhelming (in a good way) feeling that washes over us. We especially need it when our world isn't... well, peaceful. For myself, I've had many instances where I needed peace in my life. But I do think there seems to be a distinction between worldly peace and God's peace. I've encountered both. The temporary peace we find is nice, but it doesn't last long. The peace from Christ is different. I've experienced it as His strength, bravery, and faith. It's also so calming, safe, and doesn't waver in the face of difficulty. 

Christ's peace is so wonderful that I seek it out when I can, especially when I'm troubled. I would also describe this peace as special in that it's deep, spiritual, and powerful. Like I mentioned above, it seems to wash over us. And we need this when our lives are hard, scary, and unsure. I just... love His peace, because it brings me closer to Him. I can imagine His peace as a beautiful force. One that can change a person's state within their mind and heart. And when you do feel His peace, it's hard to not crave it. It's quenching.

To find His peace for yourself, you have to seek it out through scripture. As well as through prayer. I've also found it when I walked within His creations in nature. And you'll know when it comes to you. It's a calm, serene, and comforting feeling that puts us at ease. However, there is also temporary peace. Temporary peace is when we don't seek Him out for it and find it through worldly means. It often doesn't last. Getting a verse from the Bible that speaks to us is one way to receive that peace from Him. As mentioned, prayer, too.

I'm so thankful for Christ's peace. It's an amazing gift. When I face fear or anxiety, I know I can rely on Him for His peace - the gift that I seek out constantly. I'm sure that many in this world need His peace, and I hope that they find it at some point in their lives. It's not something to miss for anyone. His peace is supernatural. It's hard to fathom at times. He provides us with peace that somehow calms our bodies, heart, and soul. I'm so glad He offers it to us as a gift, and I know I'll continue to seek Him out. Thank you, Jesus!

Seek out His peace.

"Peace I leave you, my peace I give you; not as the world gives, do I give you. Do not let your hearts be troubled, nor fearful." - John 14:27 NASB

Do you need prayer? Leave a comment, and I'll pray for you.

Many blessings,
- Grace Thorson

Christmas Blog Advent: Day 8 - Devotional: Every Season Has A Reason

We often attribute summer and winter to be hard seasons. Of course, depending on where you live, certain seasons can be worse than others. Here, summer and winter appear to be the most difficult ones. Whatever season is the most dreaded can take a toll on us, and we can even reluctantly go through winter. We may or may not look forward to it every year, but winter is needed, especially for nature. We might hesitate to see winter as essential, but it really is. Each season has a reason on this planet, and God orchestrates it all.

I see seasons in nature as seasons in our lives. We can go through some pretty tough days, and they may seem like winter to us. All we can perceive is the cold, the snow, and the worsening driving conditions. I know that winter can be harder than spring or autumn, but it's usually a season we have to endure. I may like winter, but I really don't look forward to clearing snow off my car and heating it up inside. Driving in the ice even gives me anxiety. Despite these struggles, I still enjoy winter. It has some good in it, after all.

Earth depends on winter every year. It has many important uses. And some places have snow all year, while some don't have any at all. I think that learning to adapt to changes in our lives is crucial, whether we have snow or not in winter. God gave us this season, so it's become something we have to regulate with. We may not want to, but it's part of our lives. There are days that are hard in my own life, and I wonder why I have to deal with them. But that's life. We have times where life is either easier or harder. But we must endure.

To get through winter in our lives, we must focus on God. Read His Word. Fellowship with others. Pray. There are ways to help us during these trying times, so that we can all keep going. Because we will eventually get through it. Winter never lasts which is so comforting. Spring is always right around the corner; we just have to be patient in our afflictions. The nice thing to remember, is that it's normal to have struggles, just like it's normal to have winter. We all go through this, but we have God to guide us. And we'll be okay.

Every season has a reason.

"For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven."
- Ecclesiastes 3:1 ESV

Do you need prayer? Leave a comment, and I'll pray for you.

Many blessings,
- Grace Thorson

Guest Writer: Author Pam Thorson - One Black Cat and the Power of Surrender

 Guest Writer: Author Pam Thorson

Subject: One Black Cat and the Power of Surrender

She jumps into my lap awkwardly, claws out. She drools copiously and paces as I attempt to scratch her ears. Dawn has never been a lap cat before, so she's still learning the ropes.

For many years, she was our outdoor rodent eliminator, so efficient at her job that we nicknamed her "Killer." She roamed our property, only returning to the kennel she was born in when the sun went down. Unless it was summer. Then she often stayed out all night.

She loved to sun on the decks and hunt the hillside behind our house. Two rows of juniper shrubs once lined the terrace behind the basketball court, and she liked to hang out in them. Several years ago, I cut them out and discovered a lair fit for a thriller under her favorite shrub. Beneath a canopy of branches and dusty spider webs I discovered a large, mummified rat lying on its back, stiff legs frozen skyward, earning our straight-up respect at her prowess.

How she stayed alive so long is anybody's guess, given the coyotes and Lord knows what else running around our place at night. One day she came home with a very bad wound in her side that required surgery, antibiotics, and a couple months of rest indoors. The vet guessed she had nearly fallen prey to an owl.

As soon as she was well enough, though, she would have none of being cooped up and insisted on being released back to her wild.

The Gwen fire changed all that. We couldn't find her when we had to evacuate, and she was on her own for many days. When she finally returned home, her body showed the hardships she had suffered. I reintroduced her to indoor living, and time she quickly gave up her independent lifestyle. Now she loves the comfort and attention we lavish upon her. During the day, she commands my office space. Come evening, she moves upstairs with me and sleeps in the hall.

This morning a soft autumn rain quenches summer's thirst as I sip a cup of hot chocolate and sit bundled in my favorite robe. Dawn purrs contentedly while I contemplate the changing of seasons.

Our summer was a mean one. Our son Kevin endured three months of illness, surgeries, and pain. We were forced to evacuate from the path of a fire that very nearly devoured everything we owned.

And yet.

Kevin is alive and healing. We learned we can endure more than we would have guessed. During those awful three months, God brought many people into our lives who touched us with their love and great compassion.

Our home and property escaped the fire.

Like Dawn, we are warm, fed, and learning to navigate new horizons as God leads us to trust on a deeper level.

Gratitude anoints each day we are blessed to arise and serve our majestic, compassionate, loving God.

As the leaves outside my window turn to gold, I stroke Dawn's silky fur and hear the whisper of a page turning in my soul. Life is still littered with daily challenges. But God is calling us out of the chaos into His house of abundance and rest.

I glance at Dawn and smile.

Oh, the power of surrender.

Guest Writer: Author Pam Thorson

About the Guest Writer: Pam Thorson is a nurse, author, speaker, and full-time caregiver. She is the owner/admin of a certified family home in Idaho, juggling her official duties with her love of research and writing. She is the author of four books - Song in the Night, Out from the Shadows, Arrow, and Blood Falls. You can find her books on Amazon, as well as Arrow and Blood Falls at bookstore ...And Books, Too! (andbookstooonline.com)

Her Books:

You can connect with Pam Thorson here:

Website: bloodfalls.net
Prisms Caregiving Blog: prismscaregiving.blogspot.com
Twitter: twitter.com/PamelaThorson
Facebook: facebook.com/officialpamthorson
Pinterest: pinterest.com/pamthorson/
Instagram: instagram.com/pamthorson53/

Thank you for your inspiring devotional on surrendering to God. Look forward to having you on again, Pam Thorson. May God bless you in all your future endeavors.

Many blessings,
- Grace Thorson

We Can Help Those Affected By Recent Hurricanes

On September 26th, Hurricane Helene hit Florida. It was the strongest hurricane to hit the region of Big Bend in Florida with 140 mph. It was also the deadliest hurricane to have hit since Katrina in 2005. The impact of Helene impacted not just Florida, but also, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Virginia, and Tennessee. It caused 230 deaths. Many people felt the carnage of Helene. Electricity lost, flooding, few supplies - a complete disaster. 

I remember when Hurricane Katrina hit. I watched Fox News as Shepard Smith covered the aftermath. So many people sitting on tops of their roofs, getting airlifted into helicopters. The damage done was obvious. I watched the news constantly as they filmed the situation. During a disaster, I usually wish I could go and help out, but I often don't have the means to do so. Like many people, I'm sure. That's why I created this post for Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton. I'll provide a link you can donate to make a difference there.

I can't imagine what family members went through with these hurricanes. We, as humans, often feel comfortable at home, oblivious to the fact that hurricanes can be a constant worry. Especially, of course, down south. I have to say it. They're brave. There were many hurricanes that hit this year (it was above average). I know that the hurricanes changed many lives. The evacuations that were in place for residents made escaping difficult. I heard that some weren't able to fuel up their cars, and that traffic was packed. They must have been so afraid. I especially think about the children and pets in these instances.

As people begin to pick up the pieces, we can offer some assistance. Some can volunteer, provide aid, and send supplies. Those of us that can't, we can donate and pray. We can also get the word out to others about both hurricanes. If there's family or friends that's been affected, we can offer them hope. We can gather and pray to find the best way to do something for them. Although, not similar, we had to evacuate because of a fire this summer (we were later able to return home). I won't forget the help that we received. It meant a lot to my family. Any kind of reaching out would do so much for those that were affected during the hurricanes. You can make a difference in someone's life.

Of course, we can't take the pain away from what someone has endured. If they lost a family member or friend, for instance, that grief will never leave them. In that case, the only thing you can do is be there for them. If they ask for something in particular, you can provide it. And pray. Pray a lot. I'm saying this because life can be extremely hard, and we all need those special ones that show empathy. I'm trying to encourage people to show more compassion during instances like this. If we were placed within the target of a hurricane, we would want any kind of care and love. Just think of others. Please.

Personally, I wish I could do more. But I felt like I needed to write this post, because it's the least I can do. If you feel led to create awareness to this disaster yourself, I encourage you to do so, like on social media or at your church. I understand it's also a private decision to donate for relief efforts. But in case you wanted to donate, I provided a trustworthy place for your donation. Every little bit helps. Anything you can do, whether it's to pray, donate, or bring awareness is greatly valued. I would like to end this post with a big thank you to anyone that's helping those affected by Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton.

I recommend donating to Samaritan's Purse for its US Disaster Relief Fund.

Many blessings,
- Grace Thorson

Devotional: God Is Protecting Us

In this world, I feel vulnerable. I know that in the spiritual side of it, there's battles being waged. Battles we can't see but are real. And me? I just deal with a lot of anxiety. Anxiety about everything. In fact, I pray for protection when I get into my car. I know that only God can protect me, so I pray often for it. This doesn't mean that something bad won't happen. When we go out from within our home (our safe place), anything could happen. That's why I like to be prepared with prayer. God hears my prayers, and that provides me with peace.

Knowing that God is always with me, gives me courage. It helps me face my fears even when I feel alone. This doesn't make us invincible, but it gives us strength. I mean, God is also stronger than any foe. He can protect us from anything. The part I love the most about this is that God will protect my heart and your heart. Your soul is secure in Him. It's not going to leave you. He's with you wherever you go, and He has a place provided for you in Heaven. You're going to be okay. I'm going to be okay. It's just the fear that rises within us.

I've written about fear before in a devotional (you can read it here). It can stop us from many things. I decided for myself that I wasn't going to let it control me. Sure. I'll have anxiety. But I'll press on. It doesn't matter how hard life gets; I'll keep going. I've tried to give up before, and I'm determined to fight that fear this time. In the past, I was really focused on fear that I didn't see. I didn't see the light. I wasn't alone. I was never alone. Looking back, I can see God working through my past. Since then, I've tried to give God my fears, anxieties, and worries. They're too heavy for me to carry, and I need the rest.

If you're feeling burdened, give God your fears. Mine are too heavy for me on this journey, so that's why I'm trying to hand them over. Of course, this is hard to do. We kind of want to hang onto them, don't we? However, I've learned this doesn't ease anything in my life. I have to hand them over. I'm tired. But God is strong. He'll take them off our backs easily. I feel free when I give them to Him. I also know that God will watch over me, so I don't have to worry so much. I place my heart in His mighty hands. God protects us, even in the spiritual realm. We may not be able to see what He's doing, but we're safe with Him. 

Always.

"God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble." - Psalm 46:1 NASB

Do you need prayer? Leave a comment, and I'll pray for you.

Many blessings,
- Grace Thorson

Devotional: Laugh At Fear

 
Most of us face fear. Our circumstances could be different, but the same feeling is shared. It's that sinking feeling in the pit of our stomachs. Even our heartbeats speed rapidly, not slowing down. We can also pace because our minds are frantic with worry. I've experienced fear, too. Too great, actually. Fear is unfortunately powerful and can make us act so desperate. Once it grabs hold of your mind, it's hard to shake off. And when fear takes over, anxiety begins to grow within us. It can cause stress, and even health problems. Our fears begin to take its toll on our bodies and heart, actually weighing us down.

What's the antidote? I wish I knew what the ultimate cure was. Fear is something that probably can't be taken out of our lives completely. It'll probably always be there, deep within us. I know. That doesn't sound too encouraging. There are, however, some things we can do to fight it. Instead of allowing fear complete control of our lives, we can find solace, bravery, and love. But the most ultimate way to fight it, is to laugh. Yes, laugh. If you can stand tall and laugh in the face of fear, you've eased some of its hold on you. Just show fear that it has now power over you. That, it has no say in your life.

Laugh. Laugh because you know that Jesus is with you. Fear can't defeat Him. And it won't defeat you. Yes, fear will always be there. It won't forever leave, but you've got what you need to fight it. You've got Christ, and He's your safe place amidst those dark storms. In fact, with Him, you can challenge anything. Fear might be right in your face, and you know what you can do? You can laugh at it. Whether it be a little chuckle, or a hearty one, it doesn't matter. It has the same freedom either way. You'll see. Laughter will loosen those chains that fear has restrained us in. I promise you'll feel lighter.

I still deal with fear. I know it's there, and it's a struggle. I remember. Jesus is with me, and I can laugh at it with Him. Honestly, though, fear is a huge struggle for me, so I suffer from it daily. To combat this, I got a bracelet that has a cross beaded within it. It's my reminder to laugh at fear. I wear it as often as I can. If you deal with fear, too, I suggest doing the same thing. I love that Jesus gives us His Word, and tools to use for the fear in our lives. Laughter just happens to be one of them. I know that when fear comes around, I'm going to keep laughing, because I know that Christ has me. And He has you, as well, my friend.

Laugh at the future, and what may come of it.

"She is clothed with strength and dignity, and she laughs without fear of the future." - Proverbs 31:25 NLT

Do you need prayer? Leave a comment, and I'll pray for you.

Many blessings,
- Grace Thorson