Author: Tina Steele

Growth

As my sabbatical comes to the end, I would like to give thanks to Kris, FDLIC, and everyone who covered my job while I was gone. I am looking forward to getting back to work at FDLIC.

This has been a time of new growth in many areas of my life, and some old bad habits have been exchanged for new good ones.  One of these habits that I am practicing and polishing each day is giving thanks in all circumstances as I continually realize how blessed we are!  I recognize I cannot go back and change things, but I can make the most of the time I have and do that each day going forward.
Once again, I cannot express how grateful I am to have had this wonderful Sabbatical experience!  What a blessing!

Stop, look and Listen

As of early June I didn’t know if the service project with AYSA would work out since there are no sports events planned during this month. As I began to make alternate plans, I realized I needed to ask God for direction. As I prayed, God’s plan unfolded. AYSA needed extensive data entry work done, and I am currently working on that project. I realized working in the background as a quiet servant fits me well. Although things may go unnoticed by people, God always notices. My motto has become Colossians  3:23, “Whatever you do , do it enthusiastically,as something done for the Lord and not for men.” Matthew 25:40 reminds me whatever I do for others, I do for Jesus, my beloved audience of One.

Until next time blessings,

Abundant Blessings

I am drinking my morning coffee, reading and reflecting on this week. My only plan was to be still and  listen and then follow the path of God’s will and direction. Truly He has shown me that plan each day. When we give our time to God, He gives us the time we need.


   It’s good to take time to appreciate and enjoy the little things in life.  My husband and I spent time viewing the “strawberry moon” and 3 days later saw the sun shining through the clouds making it appear like a lightning bolt. Those were both peaceful and WOW moments!


   On my birthday, my husband gave me the greatest gift of all. He arranged for me to spend time with some family members I have really been missing lately. I can honestly say time seemed to stand still and I heard God’s voice in my soul say “just enjoy the moment” and so I did. 🙂  Oh I was so thankful  and my cup runneth over with gratitude and joy.


     I have also been available to help friends and family in a  moment’s notice whether it’s a favor, an extra pair of hands or just a listening ear. I am so thankful and I have a song in my heart as my service gives blessing to others and puts a smile on their faces.


     So as I close my blog this week, I can say a seemingly ordinary week has actually been extraordinary.  God has shown me no matter what, there is a blessing in EVERYTHING.  He reminds us in His Word that He has good plans for us and that He is able to make EVERYTHING work for our good when we love and follow Him.

 

My heart is full of thankfulness to the Lord
and to Kris and FDLIC for this special time of growth and
renewal. There will be a different “

God’s Timing

Well, it has already been a week on my sabbatical, but it is
just now becoming “real.” No hectic schedules, no
alarm clocks, just time to relax, be thankful and….
“be still and enjoy God’s treasures.”  We are
so Blessed!!
I am devoting time to my parents this week. Like me, they
also like to exercise so I went with my mom to her exercise
classes, Wow, I am so impressed,  I hope I can accomplish
an hour of exercise like that when I am her age. Well done,
Mom!  She is setting
  a high standard for healthy. Next up I am going to the
Senior Activity Center with my Dad to exercise. When they
say they exercise, they mean exercise! They are truly an
inspiration, and I am so thankful for the time to spend with
them.
A friend is joining me in reading the following two
books:
      Keep It Shut by Karen Ehman
      A 30 Day Walk with God in the Psalms by
Nancy Leigh DeMoss
Wow, once again I have received another blessing to have a
devoted friend like that!! Wow, I am so blessed!
As usual, God’s timing is perfect.  There are some
special relationship issues in my life that are particularly
challenging at this time.  I know God knew I needed extra
time with Him to process and pray.