ç'est la vie RN

Tag: christianity

  • Living Wisely with Time

    Living Wisely with Time

    Have you noticed how time seems to move differently as we age? As a child, I felt like the days stretched on forever…a single summer seemed like endless cousin joy, and waiting for a birthday or Christmas was almost unbearable. But now, as an adult, I swear the weeks and months seem to fly by. Yesterday, I traveled back home to attend my godson’s gender reveal. I remember when he was born, and now he’s celebrating having a little one of his own.

    I stopped to visit my uncle and great aunt. While they were always considered an elder in the family, it’s more evident the family elders are in their elderly phase of life. The neighborhood kids I remember from my young adulthood are now grown, with their own grown children! Now, one year fades into the next before we’ve even caught our breath. This shift is more than just perception. It’s a reminder from God that our days are fleeting, and we are called to use them with wisdom and care.

    The psalmist captures this reality when he prays, “Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom” (Psalm 90:12, NIV). In other words, we aren’t just to count the years that pass but to make the years—and the days within them—count. Every sunrise is an opportunity to live with intention, to love more deeply, and to grow more faithfully. If we aren’t mindful, we risk letting time pass while our hearts drift from what matters most.

    Ephesians 5:15-16 (NLT) speaks directly to this truth: “So be careful how you live. Don’t live like fools, but like those who are wise. Make the most of every opportunity in these evil days.” Life has many demands that compete for our attention…work deadlines, family responsibilities, financial pressures. Yet, in the midst of it all, God calls us to slow down and live wisely. That means investing our time in what nurtures our souls, strengthens our families, deepens our faith, and brings light to a world that desperately needs hope.

    Time will continue to move quickly, and we cannot control its pace. But we can decide how we will walk through it. When our priorities are aligned with God’s, we discover peace even in the busyness. We can look back not with regret but with gratitude for a life lived intentionally.

    Here’s a question for you to reflect on this week: pause and ask yourself—how am I spending my time? What needs more of my heart, and what is draining it unnecessarily? Choose today to live on purpose, to lean into God’s wisdom, and to let every moment reflect His love.

  • Reflection: Growing in Christ

    Reflection: Growing in Christ

    Yesterday, was Resurrection Sunday. After church service, I spent some time reflecting on my walk with the Lord. Growing in my relationship with Christ has been a journey filled with grace, correction, love, and transformation. In my early walk—what they call “a babe in Christ”—I relied heavily on others to feed me spiritually. I was open to the warmth of His presence but had little understanding of His Word. My prayers were often simple and self-focused, like a child asking for what they want without fully grasping the love or authority of the One they were speaking to.

    As I’ve grown, my hunger for deeper understanding has increased. I now recognize the importance of obedience, trust, and surrender. I’ve learned that following Christ is not just about feelings but about faith—walking even when I don’t feel Him, believing even when I don’t understand. I see more clearly the areas of my life where He is calling me higher—into holiness, humility, and genuine love for others.

    Still, there is a long way to go. There are places in my heart that need refining, thoughts that need to be taken captive, and habits that must be surrendered. Living a righteous life is not about perfection, but about direction—constantly moving toward Christ, even when I stumble. His grace covers me, but His Spirit also empowers me to grow. The journey never truly ends.

    All of this growth is only possible because of what Jesus did on the cross. I think back to being a little girl in church where they would sing songs like Jesus Paid it All, There is a Fountain, and my favorite hymn, Near the Cross. I now understand the gravity of salvation. He bore my sins, past and future, and gave me access to the Father. He didn’t die so I could live a good life—He died so I could live a new life. His resurrection power is what enables me to mature, to be transformed day by day into His image. The wonder of His love, proven through His sacrifice, draws me closer and inspires me to live a life that honors Him.

    3 Simple Ways You Can Grow Closer to the Lord Today:

    1. Talk to God Throughout Your Day
      Prayer doesn’t always have to be long or formal. Whisper to Him in your car, thank Him while cooking, or ask for guidance in a moment of stress. Make Him your constant companion.
    2. Spend Time in the Word Daily
      Even if it’s just one chapter or a few verses, let God speak to your heart through Scripture. His Word is living and will guide your thoughts and actions.
    3. Show Love Intentionally
      Look for simple ways to love others—through kindness, listening, encouraging words, or acts of service. Loving people well is one of the clearest signs of a deepening relationship with Christ.

  • Everlasting Life

    Everlasting Life

    Remembering Shelley Bailey

    Yesterday morning I attended the memorial service of a formal colleague and friend. Every so often in life, you meet someone who truly has a beautiful soul. Shelley was one of those people. Her smile would light up a room. She consistently put the needs of others before her own. She was a loved wife, mother, daughter, sister, aunt, and friend to many. During the service, I became hyper aware of a number of things. First, who will write my obituary? How long will it be…my immediate family is massive? Maybe I should work on that myself right now. I mentioned it to my sister, and she told me she would not accept it before age 70. What would the vibe be? Would I want my body present or grave burial? All these random thoughts entered my mind as we celebrated Shelley’s life. I drew my attention back to the service and briefly settled into sadness because she is no longer physically present. However, it was short lived, as a level of palpable peace and hope arose in the building because of her faith in Jesus. Though her absence was deeply felt, there is comfort in knowing that she is now with the Lord.

    The Bible assures us that those who believe in Jesus will have eternal life. John 11:25-26 (NASB) says, “Jesus said to her, ‘I am the resurrection and the life; the one who believes in Me will live, even if he dies, and everyone who lives and believes in Me will never die. Do you believe this?’” Her faith in Christ means she is now in His presence, free from pain and sorrow. That is the real victory…accepting Jesus into our hearts that we may gain eternal life.

    For those who want to accept Jesus as their Lord and Savior, here are simple steps:

    1. Believe in Jesus – Trust that He is the Son of God and that He died for your sins. Romans 10:9 (NASB) says, “If you confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.”
    2. Repent of Your Sins – Turn away from sin and seek to follow God’s ways. Acts 3:19 (NASB) says, “Therefore repent and return, so that your sins may be wiped away.”
    3. Pray and Invite Jesus into Your Heart – Talk to God, confess your faith in Him, and ask Him to lead your life.
    4. Read the Bible and Pray Daily – Grow in your faith by spending time with God.
    5. Find a Church Community – Surround yourself with believers who can encourage you.

    Though our loved one is no longer here, her faith in Jesus assures us that we will see her again.

  • Never Would Have Made It

    Never Would Have Made It

    Do you ever feel like December just insists on snowballing itself into the new year? I finally made time this weekend to sit and reflect about the 4th quarter and all the things. Never would have made it without you Lord! The sentiment resonates deeply with overcoming life’s trials through faith, perseverance, and the support of all my tribes. Whether it be in the nursing profession, ministry work, or in personal struggles, there are moments I realize that I didn’t make it on my own. “If the Lord had not been on our side…the flood would have engulfed us, the torrent would have swept over us” (Psalm 124:2,4).

    These words are a reminder that every victory, every step forward, is evidence of God’s faithfulness! The truth is none of us could have made it alone. But through His grace, and often through the people He places around us, we stand as testimonies of His unfailing love and power. As we look back, we give thanks. We lean on the same God who brought us through. We never would have made it…but God! Giving God the glory after a hard time is not just about gratitude—it’s about acknowledging His sovereignty and His hand in the process. It’s saying, “God, I couldn’t have done this without You.” As 2 Corinthians 12:9 reminds us, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.”

    After almost 8 months without a job…I never experienced homelessness or hunger. All the bills got paid. I was granted the opportunity to continue fellowship with friends, grow in the Spirit, get back to singing, and simply have joy in the valley. When we glorify God after a trial, we testify to His faithfulness and inspire others to trust Him in their own storms. He is trustworthy! Keep trusting and believing Him for whatever desires He has planted in your heart. In the end, I realized my struggle was about revealing His power and His glory through my life. To God be the glory, great things He has done!

  • Embracing the Generational Shift

    Embracing the Generational Shift

    Last week, my great-great uncle passed. He was the last of a generation. Suddenly, it occurred to me that I am on the path to becoming “the older people”. Don’t get me wrong, it is a blessing to wake up every morning! There is also the realization that the number of days behind me, likely exceed the number of days ahead. Middle adulthood is a phase of life marked by responsibility, wisdom, and the opportunity to influence future generations. Being the adults of this generation, in this culture, means navigating challenges unique to our time while anchoring ourselves in timeless biblical truths. As we grow older, our roles as stewards of God’s blessings, mentors to the younger generation, and servants in His kingdom become more pronounced. What does Scripture say about this sacred responsibility?

    1. Living as God’s Stewards

    Adulthood calls us to steward the resources, talents, and relationships God has entrusted to us. Whether it’s our time, finances, or spiritual gifts, we are accountable for using them wisely for His glory.

    In 1 Corinthians 4:2, Paul reminds us:
    “Now it is required that those who have been given a trust must prove faithful.”

    Faithfulness in stewardship means making decisions that honor God and benefit others. This includes providing for our families, investing in our communities, and being diligent in our work.

    2. Leading the Next Generation

    One of our primary responsibilities as adults is to guide and mentor the younger generation. In a world filled with competing values, they need godly examples who live out biblical principles with integrity.

    Psalm 78:4 emphasizes the importance of this role:
    “We will not hide them from their descendants; we will tell the next generation the praiseworthy deeds of the Lord, His power, and the wonders He has done.”

    As adults, we are called to teach the next generation about God’s faithfulness, equipping them to navigate life’s challenges with wisdom and faith.

    3. Pursuing Wisdom and Growth

    Adulthood is not the end of personal growth—it’s a time to deepen our relationship with God and mature in character. Proverbs 16:31 says:
    “Gray hair is a crown of splendor; it is attained in the way of righteousness.”

    This verse reminds us that growing older is a gift, not a burden. It’s an opportunity to gain wisdom and use it to guide others, reflecting God’s glory in our lives.

    4. Serving in the Kingdom of God

    As adults, our maturity equips us to serve in unique and impactful ways. Whether through leadership, discipleship, or acts of service, our lives should be a reflection of Christ’s love.

    In 1 Peter 4:10-11, we are encouraged:
    “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.”

    Adulthood is a season to step into God’s purposes with boldness, embracing the privilege of being His hands and feet in a broken world.

    Walking in Purpose

    Becoming the adults of this generation means more than simply growing older—it’s about growing in purpose. It’s about living as Christ’s ambassadors (2 Corinthians 5:20), taking on the mantle of responsibility with grace, and leaving a legacy that points others to Him.

    Let us rise to this calling, knowing that our work is not in vain when done in the Lord (1 Corinthians 15:58). May we embrace the responsibilities and opportunities of adulthood with faith, wisdom, and a heart for service.

  • In the midst of a storm, He’s there

    In the midst of a storm, He’s there

    I was watching footage on the Weather Channel from the tornado in Iowa. There was a video clip of a woman. She was holding her baby in her friend’s basement when the stairs began to collapse on them. She said it was the only time she had ever prayed. She only spoke “Dear Lord”, then it was over.

    I am a strong believer that prophetic words and events often occur so we can receive the message at a time when it is most needed. This past Sunday we reviewed the passages in Mark 6 (45-52) where Jesus walks on water. Dr. Evans opened his teaching with an analogy (he’s good at these). He said a soaked sponge under pressure [when squeezed] will reveal what is on the inside, and sometimes God intentionally allows or causes pressure [trials] in our lives to grow us spiritually and build our faith. Just an observation right quick based on this analogy…if someone doesn’t have a relationship with the Lord but call on Him during their trial, He has to inhabit a space within them for His name to be the first they call when under pressure.

    A couple of things that stood out to me regarding those verses:

    • You can be obedient, operating under the will of God AND still be in a trial – Jesus instructed the disciples to cross the sea. They became stuck in the middle, fighting against the winds.
    • No matter the time, day or night, He sees us in our struggles – Jesus was watching them
    • The Lord can present Himself in unexpected ways. If you limit Him, you may miss Him – The disciples were terrified when they saw Jesus walking on water. They thought He was a ghost.

    I think I was in my late 30’s when I heard someone say that if you continue to experience the exact same trials over and over again, it’s because you’re not learning the lesson God is trying to teach you. My ultimate takeaway is we should be able to absorb God, know what He can do, and stand on that knowledge during our trials so that evidence of Him comes pouring out of us. No matter where you are in life and what you are facing, I pray you take a moment to remember when God clearly revealed Himself in the workings of your life. Bring this to the forefront during your next storm and remember the Lord walks on water!

    …But Jesus spoke to them at once. “Don’t be afraid,” he said. “Take courage! I am here!” – Mark 6:50 NLT