Living simply takes intentionality in this fast-paced world,and I am always seeking this but only sometimes able to achieve it. It is the best way to live a balanced and purposeful life. James says that a double-minded man is unstable in all of his ways,so to limit distractions and focus on what’s most important keeps us gazing on truth. The preacher in Ecclesiastes talks about our labors and the fruits of them as gifts from God,our portion under the sun. And Paul in Colossians tells us to do everything as unto the Lord,heartily,and for His glory.

Volunteering in the community and serving wherever God leads makes me joyful,energized,and humbled that I can be a part of His light,hands,and feet in this world.

On a journey of gratefulness,to focus on blessings and not trials,God is teaching me to be more mindful. So every moment,I do notice beauty,order,sunshine,colors,tastes, sensations,music,art,scents,fabrics,even the feel of cool,luscious moss underneath my bare feet...and I am thankful to my Father,the Giver of all good gifts and the Author of all that is beautiful.

Laying aside all of the chaos of life and focusing on God in worship is always a joy to my heart,whether I am alone or in a large crowd. He draws near,and my soul is uplifted,and my burdens are not nearly as heavy. I feel close to the One Who loves me in a way that passes knowledge.

When I was rearing 6 children,I had to learn how to “practice the presence of God”. It was really difficult to steal away any quiet,peaceful moments;so I would abide in Jesus while doing dishes or rocking a baby. Now I’m back to a season in which I can hide away to spend time with the Lord;and it’s my favorite time of day! I don’t want to leave His presence! It‘s as though I climb into His arms and truly experience life,abundant life! It causes me to long for heaven,where I will be with Him forever! I understand that His Spirit is always within me; but sitting at His feet only helps me to grow in my love for Him.

Life gets so busy,and we often have our minds on the many details of our days. Ritual gives us the opportunity to regularly put all of that aside and focus on what truly matters most. It is also a beautiful legacy for our families to have memories of traditions that ground us in our faith and turn our hearts to God,experiencing Him together in special ways. Purposeful gatherings woven throughout our years keep us close to the Lord, give us a rhythm,and lay great foundations upon which to build all of our days.

Sometimes,I am a distracted reader;but practicing the art of meditating on scripture strengthens my mind and causes truth to take root in my soul. And when I study anything connected to the Source of all wisdom,understanding,and knowledge (which is everything!),I experience God on innumerable levels. He is the great physician,scientist,architect,astronomer,philosopher,mathmetician,historian, teacher,poet,advocate,artist,counselor,orator....a wellspring of timeless truth! And as I dive deeper into any topic,I find more of the depths of the riches of Him!

Whenever the many issues within my four walls begin to overwhelm me,I often go outdoors for a walk...somewhere in nature;and it changes everything! Seeing God’s creation opens up my small world and causes me to reflect on the largeness of Who He is. I notice details of God’s creativity,marvel at His power,and relish the beauty of His majesty. My heart is lifted in praise and worship,and I feel strengthened and refreshed. Surrounded by our Creator’s splendor,my spirit is renewed in hope.

Every parent surely has learned to grow in their relation to God in so many facets of caregiving! Of course,parenting children has given me more grace for my own mother and father😊But mostly,it showed me the depths of our God’s love,His perfection as our Heavenly Father,His heart toward us,my dependence on Him,my insufficiency apart from Him,the riches of His sacrifice and kindness and mercy,and so much more! Then,caring for a special needs child has been such a painful,joyful experience...feeling powerless, and completely relying on God’s Grace,strength,and wisdom where I have none!

I keep thinking that this is such a powerful,attractive tool for youth! Throughout the years in ministry,it would have been great to see its impact on our teens. The topic would have enabled them to grow deeper in relating to God through your well-presented stories.

It was so exciting to receive my book and to find some quiet time to drink it all in! It is truly lovely...so beautifully done! And Kimberly,what a force you are! God created such a uniquely colorful,gifted,and passionate person when He made you. It always inspires me to observe all of the ways that you glorify Him through your life💚My advice? Keep following His leading,one step at a time,and it will be a joy to see all of the fruits of your labors of love!