“In Joppa there was a disciple named Tabitha, which is translated Dorcas. She was always doing good works and acts of charity. ³⁷ In those days she became sick and died. After washing her, they placed her in a room upstairs.” Acts 9:36-37, HCSB

What does fruitful kindness look like? We’ve all been discouraged by seasons of unkindness: maybe we yelled at a loved one, bailed on a commitment, or overlooked a need. Because if you’re like me, I tend to do what I want to do.

Often I want to lounge on the couch, doing my own thing and neglecting the needs of others. I know my spouse, children, or friends need something, but do I really have to be the one to help?

What if we pursued kindness from a Spirit-filled life?

Unscheduled Kindness

I scrolled through my email and received an unexpected message. A friend of ours was in the hospital and my heart ached for her.

Although I already had plans for the day, I wanted to help in any way possible, to be with her kids, bring some food, or send a text. I grimaced looking at my color coated calendar, filled with scheduled commitments.

As I contemplated what to do, a woman in the Bible came to mind, Tabitha, also known as Dorcas. She didn’t expect gifts in return, she crafted robes and clothes for others.

She devoted herself to deeds of kindness, not just toward those who could return the favor, but to widows, who were often neglected in that time and culture.

She wasn’t on a formal committee, but she deeply impacted lives. Even during the reign of cruel Herod, she served the needy. Not just doing good work on Sundays, but always!

Do we make it a priority to spread kindness, or only when it fits our schedule?

Kindness & Hardship

We don’t know how long Tabitha was sick or what happened during those days, but eventually she died.

But she didn’t die in silence, the widows wept over her.

Tabitha demonstrated kindness, but she wasn’t the only one. The disciples urgently called for Peter.

Once he arrived, he got down on his knees and prayed for her. (Acts 9:40) His prayer was answered and she came back to life. Because of this, many people in Joppa believed in the Lord.

Ultimately, these acts of kindness are a reflection of Christ’s kindness to us. Earthly kindness motivated by self-interest can become transactional. But Biblical kindness spreads outward and benefits others.

God showed kindness to us when we were undeserving, and therefore our kindness toward others isn’t about earning approval but reflecting the kindness we’ve already received in Christ.

Worldly Kindness

Worldly kindness focuses on what we can get in return, tit for tat, favor for favor. Often it’s only available when convenient. But Spirit-empowered kindness is powerful for producing spiritual fruit.

We can learn many things from the example of Tabitha and Peter. Are we looking out for those typically unseen and perhaps unable to return the favor? Are we surrounding ourselves with godly people who we can call for help when we’re unable to.

Whether we’re demonstrating kindness to widows, the sick, or believers, we can do it through the Lord’s strength.

More Verses to Consider

• Put On Kindness — Colossians 3:12 (HCSB)
  “Therefore, God’s chosen ones, holy and loved, put on heartfelt compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.”

• Love Kindness — Micah 6:8 (HCSB)
  “Mankind, He has told you what is good and what it is the LORD requires of you: to act justly, to love faithfulness, and to walk humbly with your God.”

• Remember God’s Kindness — Psalm 145:17 (HCSB)
  “The LORD is righteous in all His ways and gracious in all His acts.”

• Don’t Neglect Kindness — Hebrews 13:16 (HCSB)
  “Don’t neglect to do what is good and to share, for God is pleased with such sacrifices.”

¹⁸ Instruct them to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share, ¹⁹ storing up for themselves the treasure of a good foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of that which is life indeed. 1 Timothy 6:18-19

Life indeed, what an interesting phrase. We can keep our resources to ourselves, or generously share with others. Our possessions and time won’t last forever, but generosity can make a lasting impact.

Recent Happenings

• The Way of the Wildflower by Ruth Chou Simons. A collection of devotionals based around wildflowers.

• Grace Will Be There a new book by Katie Blackburn. An enjoyable read using short stories to highlight deep truths. I finished it in a few days and it would be a great gift for a new believer.

• I also interviewed Katie on her disability book, check it out here!

• Dust to Dust by Jen Wilkin, I haven’t thought about aging too much, but this book compares the Bibles view with the world, very important!

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This post is part of a blog hop with Exhale—an online community of women pursuing creativity alongside motherhood, led by the writing team behind Coffee + Crumbs. Click here to view the next post in the series “Splurge.”

🔖 Topics Covered:

• Most of us are grief illiterate, so how do we navigate grief? Or help a friend in grief? The way through grief isn't a method. The way through grief is a person: God of all comfort. As we lean into God's character, God Himself becomes our comfort and meets us at every point in our pain.

📚 Learn more about Lisa

A recent widow and single mom to seven amazing children, here she shares all of the good lessons God is teaching as He is so true and faithful to us.

In This Episode

• Lisa’s story of unexpectedly losing her husband

• Why grief isn’t a linear process

• How God’s attributes become anchors in suffering

• Practical ways to comfort grieving children

• What Scripture says about God’s presence in our pain

• Lessons on grief from the book of Ruth

• Why lament is an essential part of healing

• How grief changes over time without completely disappearing

• Encouragement for anyone wondering where God is in suffering

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“What’s your greatest weakness?”

I sat across from a woman at a job interview, contemplating my answer. It’s easy for me to spout out my strengths, but I’m slow to think of a weakness. My body squirms as I consider an answer, my mind digging through acceptable responses.

Eventually, I talk about low energy and the many struggles it can cause. Most days I roll out of bed bleary eyed and unprepared to begin the day. My son bursts out of his room each morning, racing to ours with a huge smile. Despite a hefty cup of coffee, I cannot match his enthusiasm.

But after the interview it makes me wonder, what is my greatest weakness?

A few weeks go by and I know the answer. As I sit on the couch and scroll through my phone I notice an icky feeling bubble to the surface. Social media used to provide inspiration, but it now breeds comparison. I compare myself to others and my past self, able to do more—and do it faster, better, and stronger. I used to fit into smaller clothes, do more jumping jacks, or stay up later. Despite my accomplishments, there’s always someone who performs better.

And in between the cracks of the day I find myself on my phone scrolling through more ways to compare. Why do I do this?

One girl seems to have a closer group of friends, a bigger 4th of July party, or a fancier meal plan.

My lip twists as I remember our frozen meals and lack of July 4th barbecues.

Instagram used to be a fun outlet—a chance to catch up with family. Now I’m bombarded with ideas and inspiration I can’t keep up with. I have not done a house project in weeks. I haven’t been to the gym in months, and I don’t remember what my New Year’s resolutions are.

Finally, I hover over the three dots and click “log out.” A chance to reset and re-examine my heart. As I think about comparison, I’m reminded of Galatians 6:4–5.

“Each one should test their own actions. Then they can take pride in themselves alone, without comparing themselves to someone else, for each one should carry their own load.”

This verse compels us to examine our own actions. When I work unto the Lord I can take pride, not in myself, but by working faithfully to Him. Instead of testing the actions of others I can look at myself and consider if I’m being faithful.

As I log back into social media, I try to have a Romans 12:15 mindset, rejoicing with those who rejoice & weeping with those who weep. When someone shares a job promotion or pregnancy announcement I can celebrate instead of comparing. When someone shares a complicated recipe or cleaning trick I can keep swiping or try it out, without it dampening my mood or insecurities.

Comparison may be a struggle of yours too, but there’s hope. Instead, we can find contentment in what God has entrusted to us.

In this season, I have two young children. I’m not working full time at a corporation or making homemade meals every evening. I am taking time to shepherd my children and embrace that unique responsibility, letting go of past or present expectations that aren’t mine to carry.

Today we can rejoice in the day he has made. We don’t have to look to the right or left and see if we measure up. Because of Christ’s work on the cross, our identity is not in what we do, but whose we are.

“The enemy wants us to measure ourselves against each other, then back away from each other in fear, insecurity, shame, or pride. Jesus invites us to draw together in unity—appreciating differences, rather than being divided by them.” (Comparison Girl, Popkin)

A few weeks later, I check my phone and learn I didn’t get the job. Instead of spiraling down a vortex of what ifs, I quiet my heart. I try to remind my heart that God is sovereign and strong enough to make a perfect plan. I don’t have to compare myself to others or past versions of myself. He gives enough strength for today and I can walk in joy knowing He guides us one moment at a time.

• Influence: Building a Platform that Elevates Jesus (Not Me) book. A great read on comparison and other timely topics!

• Comparison podcast with Shannon Popkin. Shannon has written several books for girls and adults and they’re full of wisdom!

• Pursuing peace podcast with Ann Swindell. One of my favorite devotionals when life feels uncertain.

• Calm My Anxious Heart: I’m reading this book right now and it’s a great blend of storytelling + scripture. I appreciated this poem she shared on contentment.

  • “I was a child but it was adulthood I wanted; the freedom and the respect. I was twenty but it was thirty I wanted; to be mature and sophisticated. I was middle-aged but it was twenty I wanted; the youth and the free spirit. I was retired but it was middle-age that I wanted; the presence of mind without limitations. My life was over but I never got what I wanted.”

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This post is part of a blog hop with Exhale—an online community of women pursuing creativity alongside motherhood, led by the writing team behind Coffee + Crumbs. Click here to view the next post in the series “Healing.”

What if worship isn’t just something we do on Sundays—but something that reshapes every moment of our day?

In this episode, Grace sits down with author and speaker Emily Jensen to talk about her new booklet on worship and how it transforms ordinary motherhood into meaningful devotion. From busy mornings and school drop-offs to the deeper questions of why we do what we do, Emily invites us to see worship as our right response to who God is and what He has done.

They explore how worship impacts our perspective and carries us through seasons of suffering. Enjoy!

Find it Here

🔖 Topics Covered:

• Defining true biblical worship

• Quiet time with God during busy motherhood seasons

• Worship through ordinary and mundane tasks and routines

• Idolatry and what we naturally worship

• Reorienting our hearts toward God

• Worship during suffering, grief, and hardship

• The connection between worship and evangelism

• Examples of worship in Scripture

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🔖 Topics Covered:

• Sarah’s journey through chronic illness and motherhood

• Parenting children with neurological and health challenges

• How suffering shaped her children’s compassion and faith

• The heart behind Jesus Will Meet You There

• What Jesus’ interactions in the Gospels reveal about weakness

• Helpful vs. unhelpful ways to comfort someone who is suffering

• Why listening matters more than having the “right words”

• Experiencing Christ’s nearness in seasons of exhaustion and doubt

📚 Learn more about Sarah

Order Here

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“I’m so sorry to hear the kids are sick. Can we bring something over?”

I set my phone down, grimacing at my kiddo’s runny noses and lingering coughs. I can't remember the last time I intentionally spent time with this dear childhood friend. Yet my mind races with reasons to say no: I’m tired, the laundry basket is overflowing, and the kitchen floor is littered with crumbs.

The cloudy sky mirrors my mood—does she really want to hang out? I’d love to connect, but don’t want to inconvenience her with a thirty-minute drive just to deliver a meal. I bite my lip, contemplating the offer.

Although the fridge is full of food, my heart is full of needs. With the demands of young children, I feel lonely. Tired. Weary. I used to have lots of bandwidth for deep conversations. I could meet a friend early in the morning for coffee, or late at night. But these days, it’s harder to connect.

I respond to her text, “Sure! Actually, feel free to eat with us too, the kids are feeling a bit better and they’d love to play.”

What I really mean is, I’m not feeling well and would like to eat, er, talk, er, connect.

While I wait, I open social media and scroll through photos and videos. A photo of a blonde woman appears: Who is she? Why am I following her? I follow hundreds of people, but do I really know about them? Most of these online ‘friends’ can’t bring food to my door. They can’t give me a hug. They can’t bring their kids to a playdate. Why do I spend so much time on this app?

“Great, I’m stopping by Whole Foods with some soup and Mac and cheese for the kids.”

I smile, more excited for the company than the food.

“Mooooom, is my friend coming over?” my toddler asks with a sing-song voice, interrupting my thoughts. “Yes kiddo, your friend is coming,” I look up at his eager green eyes and tidy away bottles of medicine and scraps of food, the kids equally excited for their visit.

A few hours later, the doorbell rings. My friend and her girls arrive with bags of goodies and contagious cheer. We embrace at the door and I’m already comforted by her warm smile and kind eyes. The kids pile into the living room, pulling out wooden puzzles and toy blocks while we dish out creamy macaroni and warm soup. I scrounge together mismatched bowls and ladle the chicken noodle soup with flakes of parsley and oregano.

We gather chairs around the small wooden table, I push aside old breakfast plates, trying to create a welcoming space. We say a prayer and dig in. When my kids cough all over the food, I pull them a little closer, reminding them to cover their mouth and wipe their nose.

We exchange the normal pleasantries, and in between slurps of soup, I share what’s really on my heart:

“Thanks for coming over. It’s been hard with sick kids and I really appreciate your visit.”

She nods sympathetically, “This is such a nice time, I’m glad it worked out.” I smile as we share the highs and lows of ministry, motherhood, and the mundane. We keep talking while slicing more bread and ladling soup. My heart is full to the brim. Although the day began under cloudy skies, the sun now peeks through, sending rays across the yard. Just like the clouds, my demeanor shifts from skeptical to optimistic.

That night, I tuck the kids into bed. “Did you have a good day?” They forget about the Mac and cheese and crunchy bread—but they don’t forget time with their friends.

This season, let us consider how to encourage one another. We never know how a simple meal could brighten someone’s day.

• I enjoyed attending TGCW and gathering with nine thousand other women in Indianapolis! (:

• I’m also enjoying TGC’s Discipline of Devotion series and reading the books on Sabbath + Prayer. They’re short and take about an hour to finish.

• Glenna Marshall has a fantastic article about quitting social media. I resonate with her struggles of staying focused and enjoying long form content instead.

• We sang this Shane + Shane song at the conference and it’s so good!

• I wrote this piece about my hospital visit, control, and Joseph’s story. It’s more on the vulnerable side, but I’m grateful for the positive feedback.

• I wish I had a recipe to share but I’ve been making Chicken Chili on repeat. Any new recipe ideas?

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This post is part of a blog hop with Exhale—an online community of women pursuing creativity alongside motherhood, led by the writing team behind Coffee + Crumbs. Click here to view the next post in the series “Sky.”

A few years ago, my husband and I listened to the book Atomic Habits. Filled with fantastic research into habit building. When I saw this book by Elizabeth Woodson, I wanted to hear her perspective.

Elizabeth Woodson is the founder of The Woodson Institute, where she helps believers understand and grow in their Christian faith. She’s passionate about making discipleship and theology practical—bridging the gap between what we believe and how we live.

🔖 Topics Covered:

• What are Seven Cultural Lies?

  1. Peace through control

  2. Identity through achievement

  3. Love through selfishness

  4. Justice through vengeance

  5. Joy through overconsumption

  6. Hope through escapism

  7. A “good life” through freedom (unhindered autonomy)

  What are Seven Habits of Resistance?

  1. Prayer

  2. The (spiritual family) gathering

  3. Service

  4. Confession and forgiveness

  5. Fasting

  6. Meditation

  7. A rule of life

  Book

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Postpartum is a difficult season and I loved learning from this fantastic resource for new moms! Annie is the former editor of Risen Motherhood and writes with truth and grace. I loved chatting about these topics with her.

Find it Here

🔖 Topics Covered:

• The eight “snapshots” or everyday postpartum tasks in the book:

  • feeding

  • changing

  • sleeping

  • soothing

  • washing

  • nurturing

  • praying

  • anticipating

• How ordinary moments can point women back to Jesus and remind them that “As moms care for children, He cares for moms.”

• Annie’s personal struggles with postpartum depression, anxiety, sleep deprivation, shame, and isolation—especially during COVID.

• How Christ gently shepherds mothers in weakness and exhaustion.

• The importance of community, vulnerability, church support, meals, prayer, and honest conversations during postpartum.

• The spiritual significance of motherhood tasks like feeding and nurturing, and how Jesus is both our provider and the “bread of life.”

• How postpartum changes a mother spiritually and emotionally, and how God uses weakness to deepen dependence on Him.

• The challenge of constantly anticipating the “next stage” of motherhood and learning to trust God through every season.

• Encouragement for pregnant women to prepare their hearts spiritually before the baby arrives.

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• Scriptures that sustained Annie through motherhood, especially:

  • Isaiah 40:11: “He will tend his flock like a shepherd; he will gather the lambs in his arms; he will carry them in his bosom, and gently lead those that are with young.”

  • Psalm 103:14: “For he knows our frame; he remembers that we are dust.”

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“Mom, I want to be like him!” My son eagerly points to the Green Lantern. We sit in the children’s library, squatting at a little table surrounded by Curious George & Thomas the Train. Except my 13-year-old, I mean 3-year-old son doesn’t like those anymore. He wants the “scary books” or more mature titles. No more Daniel Tiger or Sesame Street.

Now he races around the house with pipe cleaner goggles proud of his new superhero outfit. When he races to the table he is the good guy ready to go.

Although he looks silly with his goggles, I resonate with his desire. I look at my life and also want to make a difference in the world.

Especially around this time of year, when school-year commitments wrap up, summer approaches, and fall decisions loom. I second guess my decisions and input into society. Am I doing enough? Will my children be productive members of society if they don’t attend XYZ? It used to be decisions about little choices like gymnastics or soccer; now we peer into the big world of education. Should we do classical, Montessori, Charlotte Mason, or all the above?

And with all these choices, there’s this looming sense that we’ll make a wrong decision.

The rational side of my brain knows we can course correct, but my emotions consider all the unwanted possibilities — missing out on lifelong friendships, subpar teachers, or worse.

My mind circles back to the present—the library, the kids’ section, the book, superheroes. I too want to be super and do all the things that will help others. Maybe I need a magic lasso like Wonder Woman or super speed like the Flash.

To have plenty of energy to get tasks completed. To be able to complete a 30min workout without huffing and puffing. To stay connected with friends and family and have enough energy for my spouse at the end of the night.

As I think about superheroes, I’m reminded of the greatest superhero and what our job is and is not.

Psalms 131 helps me put these decisions into perspective:

1 My heart is not proud, Lord,
my eyes are not haughty;
I do not concern myself with great matters
or things too wonderful for me.

2 But I have calmed and quieted myself,
I am like a weaned child with its mother;
like a weaned child I am content.

3 Israel, put your hope in the Lord
both now and forevermore.

Sometimes my heart wants to be like a superhero trying to solve the challenges around me, but forgets the people in front of me and concerns itself with matters too great and wonderful for me.

Part of me is upset at that verse, upset there are boundaries, and things that are too great, that there’s a difference between selfish and unselfish ambition.

What should we do? Instead, the psalmist calms and quiets himself. A weaned child is content. Is there something that we need to wean ourselves from?

Finally, he closes by hoping in the Lord now and forevermore. How can we find peace with evil and problems swirling around our homes and hearts? Hope in the Lord, the greatest superhero to ever be. Because of him, our lives can make a super difference to others. Whether it’s the surprise actions in the day or the mundane, our lives matter, and there’s hope for tomorrow.

Because of Jesus I don’t have to have super strength. I can serve him and others with the strength he gives day by day. Whether I’m sitting in a library or at home. I can be present with my son, trusting that God handles great and small matters of the future. We don’t have to save the world, we can be faithful with the life given in front of us.

• Remade: Embracing Your Complete Identity in Christ

• Francis Chan book: Beloved

• Coffee & Crumb book: collection of stories

• Love this coffee! (Anyone have a good cold brew recipe? Maybe I’ll try that in the summer) (:

• This podcast with & .

  Laura Wifler

  Risen Motherhood Reunion + A Giveaway!

  TODAY’S POD IS FREE FOR EVERYONE…

  Listen now

  4 months ago · 57 likes · 236 comments · Laura Wifler and Emily A. Jensen

This post is part of a blog hop with Exhale—an online community of women pursuing creativity alongside motherhood, led by the writing team behind Coffee + Crumbs. Click here to view the next post in the series “Surprise.”

Mom, You’re Amazing…Here’s Why

Because you were up last night until 10:30 pm discussing issues of faith with your teen or reading a short story about World War II written by your 7th grader or bathing, nursing, and rocking your baby until she fell asleep in your arms.

Because you were up again at 5:30 am.

Because today you’ve already made coffee,

Prayed for your neighbor’s mother, whose condition is critical,

Woken up your children,

Made a hot breakfast

Made a decent breakfast

Made breakfast,

Woken up your children again,

Fed the baby,

Changed a diaper,

Tickled little toes,

Double-tied little shoes,

Made a note to buy new pants for the growing teen,

Fed the fish (and wondered how in God’s green earth it’s still alive),

Unloaded the dishwasher,

Started the laundry,

Packed lunches or made certain there was money in the account or made certain you had bread and turkey for lunches later,

Tucked a note into a discouraged child’s backpack,

Told the middle schooler you were proud of him for writing a great story,

Reminded everyone to brush teeth,

Reminded everyone to make beds,

Reminded everyone to comb hair,

Braided the hair of the one who cannot yet do this for herself,

Marveled at the one who lost her two front teeth,

Embraced and kissed every one of them on the head (even the one who pulled away),

Deeply inhaled and memorized again the individual scent of each child,

Drove them to school or walked them to the bus stop or got them started on today’s homeschool lesson,

Put frozen chicken in the crockpot,

Remembered to turn the crockpot on,

Made a note to buy supplies for the school project due tomorrow,

Sent a text to a friend to set up a lunch date,

Kissed that man of yours goodbye,

Put your hair in a ponytail,

Drove to work or sat down to work at home or made a list of household chores to accomplish.

And it’s only 8:30 am.

At some point already today, you’ve struggled with inadequacy. You’ve heard a little voice that says you are too much (too fat, too wrinkly, too emotional) or not enough (not pretty enough, not together enough, not accomplished enough).

You’ve wondered if your work is making a difference. If anyone even notices or cares.

Oh Mom, look at you!

Look at everything you are. Look at everything you contribute to the family. Look at all the eternal, difficult, fulfilling work you do every single day.

If you wonder if the wheels would fall off your bus if you stepped off it, the answer is yes.

YES, THE WHEELS WOULD ABSOLUTELY FALL OFF WITHOUT YOU DRIVING THE BUS!

Please, do not underestimate your value today. You are neither too much, nor too little. You are exactly what your family needs—what this world needs.

We need you.

And you are amazing.

Questions for Reflection:

1. In what ways am I seeking validation from others instead of grounding my worth in God?

2. How might my attitude toward mundane tasks shift if I truly saw them as service to Christ?

Sandy Cooper is an award-winning author of three books, a student of the Bible, and a professionally certified plant-based home chef. She has been married to Jon for over 32 years and is mom to three young adults, a son-in-law, and a nine-month-old son in Heaven.

She has been helping frazzled moms find peace since 2008 at thescooponbalance.com and is the co-founder of Writing Off Social, where she helps female Christian writers grow their audience without social media.

Sandy is the host of The Balanced MomCast, the cohost of Writing Off Social: The Podcast. She writes at Behind the Balance on Substack, from her home office in Florida, where she lives with her family (and the ocean).

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Happy Mother’s Day!

After years of drug-use and despair, while in a mental ward, Vickie Gaynier relented and bowed her knee to the Lord Jesus Christ. He began to change her that very day. She now uses her God-given acting talent to share the powerful message of the gospel as she portrays women of faith. Don’t miss Vickie’s portrayal of Corrie ten Boom!

🔖 Topics Covered:

Vickie Gaynier: From Addiction and Despair to Portraying Heroes of the Faith.

• Vickie shares her powerful testimony of overcoming years of drug use and despair. She recounts her transformative experience of accepting Jesus Christ while in a mental ward. She now uses her acting talent to portray women of faith, such as Corrie ten Boom and Fanny Crosby, bringing their stories to life and inspiring others.

• Vickie emphasizes the importance of forgiveness, God’s grace, and the power of personal testimony.

• The episode also explores Vickie’s journey as a mother, her struggles, and her reliance on God to guide and mold her parenting. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their own faith and the impact of their testimonies.

• 00:00 Introduction and Welcome

• 00:35 Vickie’s Testimony: From Despair to Faith

• 01:20 Discovering Acting and Portraying Women of Faith

• 02:46 Motherhood and Learning from Others

• 04:28 A Journey Through Addiction and Redemption

• 13:33 The Power of Forgiveness

• 15:54 Portraying Corrie ten Boom and Other Women of Faith

• 18:16 Closing Thoughts and Prayer

• 19:57 Where to Find More of Vickie’s Work

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Last month hit me with unexpected health problems. March didn't go as planned with a missed wedding, vacation, and more.

Yet even in the difficult moments there were pockets of beauty.

• Flowers from family

• A farmer’s market at the hospital offering calamansi croissants & Pandesal bread! (Yummy Filipino delicacies)

• A date night meandering through Home Depot.

Although it’s easy for me to complain, I’m fixing my eyes on the good, even when my heart wants to worry.

I’m home from the hospital, but still have some lingering side effects. And I’m trying to be grateful for the good amid the hard. Today this is my gratitude list: What about you? How can you focus on the sunshine in the clouds?

My Gratitude List

• Hearing a favorite verse at the right time.

• A piping hot meal from friends.

• Notes from loved ones

Although the past few weeks have been difficult, I’m thankful for friends and family who have helped me reclaim my joy.

Resources that encourage my heart

• Redefining Anxiety: A quick booklet covering a variety of myths and facts on anxiety, by Dr. John Delony.

  • “Anxiety isn’t something you are, it’s something you move through and experience.”1

• My Redeemer is Faithful and True: This song has been on repeat and I love this stanza:

  • My Redeemer is faithful and true.
    Everything He has said He will do,
    And every morning His mercies are new.
    My Redeemer is faithful and true.

• Made to Tremble: How Anxiety Became the Best Thing that ever Happened to my Faith.

  • Podcast interview here: this book by Blair Linne is beautifully written and easy to read.

• Calm my Anxious Heart: A Woman’s Guide to Finding Contentment.

  • I’m still reading this book, but I’ve heard great reviews.

Favorite Books, Podcast, & Coffee this month:

• This podcast series from Abbey Wedgeworth is so helpful! It’s a preorder bonus for her new book, “Help I’m Ruining My Kids.”

• Finally finished “Becoming Mrs. Lewis,” not what I expected, but kept me engaged the whole time.

• Started a journal to record 1 line a day for 5 years!

• The Body Teaches the Soul: 10 Essential habits like sleep, food, tech, and more. I particularly enjoyed the worship chapter and reminder to keep gathering with believers.

• I’ve received many ads for this pro-life coffee brand, and finally gave it a try, it’s so yummy! 7 weeks Coffee

• Attended a Ben Rector concert a few weeks ago for a special anniversary date/trip.

• My son loved this water activated painting book.

Upcoming Posts

PS: If this resonated with you, I’d love to hear from you!

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This post is part of a blog hop with Exhale—an online community of women pursuing creativity alongside motherhood, led by the writing team behind . Click here to view the next post in the series “Reclaim.”

🔖 Topics Covered:

• 00:00 Introduction and Aimee’s Highs & Lows

• 03:00 The Importance of Rest

• 05:28 Defining Biblical Rest

• 09:44 Practical Rhythms of Rest

• 13:28 Scriptural Foundations of Rest

• 24:09 Closing Thoughts and Prayer

• 26:23 Where to Find More from Aimee Joseph & her new book

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*Personal Note: Thank you for the prayers after the loss of a close family member. Following that time, I was hospitalized. I was recently discharged, and I’m slowly adjusting. My body is very sore and tired from the medications.

All these episodes are pre-recorded, this one is especially dear to me because of the loving care of friends during this hard time. I’m still processing everything, but I know I won’t forget the kindness of others. Thanks for listening, God bless. <3

What does it take to build long-lasting, Christ-centered friendships in a world full of busyness & loneliness? In this episode, I sit down with Bailey Hurley, author of Together Is a Beautiful Place & The Friendship Devotional, to talk about the joys and challenges of friendship.

Bailey shares her own story of navigating seasons of friendship drought, the cost and beauty of prioritizing relationships, and how biblical principles like carrying one another’s burdens can transform the way we connect.

Using the garden metaphor, this devotional is split into four sections that reflect different stages of a plant’s growth. Each section has ten devotions, which all close with a reflection question and a unique prayer.

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The Planting section provides inspiration for the heavy-lifting season of making new friends. These devotions will spur you on through the weariness, frustrations, or doubts you might experience at the beginning of new friendships.

The Tending section offers encouragement and practical advice for moving new friendships into greater depths and turning them into lasting relationships.

Pruning section offers advice for the difficult moments of insecurity, conflict, or disappointment. Some friendships might even need to end, and when that happens, we need God’s truth to cover the hurt and sense of loss we might feel. If you find yourself encountering a hard season in your friendships, this section will help you prune and maybe remove any wilted relationships that are hindering growth or wellness.

The Blooming section, meant for friendship celebrations, allows you to pause and recognize the friendship “gifts” God has given you. The prayers and prompts in this section will guide your heart toward a season of gratitude and contentedness for the friends already in your life.

Bio: Bailey earned a M.A. in Leadership from Denver Seminary and uses her education to build a meaningful home and ministry that impacts how she daily leads her communities. She also authored Together is a Beautiful Place, a resource to inspire you to work through the hurdles of friendship and create lasting relationships. You can learn more on her Page.

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*Personal Note: When I started this podcast one year ago, I wanted a chance to hear from other authors and speakers, but it’s hard to know how much personal information to share. Today, I want to say that a beloved family member passed away March 12th. I’ll likely share more later. I truly appreciate the prayers & encouragement, and hope this pre-recorded interview blesses you.

Something I struggle with year after year is rest. During a full day, it’s hard to pause and enjoy the present, instead of fixating on the future.

Cara has a fantastic new book on rest. I appreciate her perspective and would love to hear your thoughts below.

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🔖 Topics Covered:

• Cara’s motherhood journey with four children and how joy and suffering shaped her faith

• What holy leisure means—and why it’s not the same as doing nothing

• Examining thoughts on quiet times

• How duty can lead to delight in God’s Word

• Finding soul-rest in chaotic seasons of motherhood, work, and suffering

• How Jesus modeled holy leisure through prayer and scripture

• Cultivating truth, goodness, and beauty in everyday life

• Cara’s skiing story and how it shaped her spiritually

• Writer’s Bloc Group

Find it here

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Alphabetical Collection of Heartfelt Prayers

Kristen shares her heart behind Teach Me to Pray, a children’s resource that walks kids through prayer using Scripture & rhyme.

• Covering topics A-Z like identity, anger, boldness, & more.

• Kristen explains how she uses the book with her own children and how it invites kids (and parents!) to fix their eyes on Christ.

🔖 Topics Covered:

• Staying the course when motherhood feels discouraging

• How chronic illness and suffering shaped Kristen’s dependence on God

• Prayer shifting from duty to desire

• Teaching children to pray in simple, tangible ways

• Common misconceptions about prayer

• How prayer reveals the true condition of our hearts

  

  Gracenotes

  Embracing Motherhood with Renewed Minds

  By Grace Thomas

Other Resources by Kristen Wetherell

• Hope When It Hurts — finding hope in suffering

• Fight Your Fears — the fear of the Lord

• Humble Moms — serving our children through the Gospel of John

• For the Bible Tells Me So — board book series for little kids

• Jesus Will Meet You There (co-written with Sarah Walton — releasing soon)

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PS: If you enjoyed this, I’d love to hear from you! (:

“I had a sad day.” My toddler slumps his shoulders and furrows his brows.

My lip twists, not quite sure how to respond. Should I change the subject? Talk about this until he gets distracted? Why can’t I remember any advice from parenting books!!

“Hmm,” I rub his tangled curls and offer a hug. I think about his statement, still not sure what to say.

The next morning, as we squish together on our stained leather couch, surrounded by legos and books, he reaches for his children’s Bible. We flip through the stories of Moses, David, and Matthew, and onto the last chapter, the promise that one day there will be no more sadness.

He leans against me, his chest slowly rising up and down and I smile when I see these words, “There will be no more death or sadness or crying or pain. I will live with my people forever.”

“Look James, no more sadness!” I point to the picture, hoping he makes the connection.

He nods, clings to his little green blanket, and eats his fruit snacks. We flip through a few more books and move onto more toys.

That night we gather around the messy dinner table cluttered with bottles and crumbs and ask, “James, how was your day?” he plays with his soup and replies, “Mmm, I had a saaaad day.”

I exhale and think about the story we read in the morning. How do I explain theological truths to a three year old? How do I teach that this life isn’t forever, that this earth isn’t our home. There will be a day with no more sickness, no more death, and no more pain.

No more sadness.

I don’t remember what happened next, but if I could respond again, I would look him in the eyes and whisper,

“I’m sorry you’re having a sad day. Mommy can’t fix everything, I can’t always find your favorite blanket, bring daddy home at 2pm, or find one more bag of fruit snacks.

But I know someone who can heal our pain, & He wants to hear about your sad day.”

“Well, I've got no answers
For heartbreaks or cancers
But a Savior who suffers them with me
Singing goodbye, Olympus
The heart of my Maker
Is spread out on the road, the rocks, and the weeds”

John Mark McMillan

• A friend recommended this pulitzer prize winning book, and it’s so good! I’ve never thought about this from a doctor’s perspective. He wrestles through the implications of sickness and moral considerations. His story takes place at Stanford University, a large, local hospital.

• When I get sad, it’s often because I’m scrolling through troubling content. This month I’m leaving Francis Chan’s book, Beloved by my nightstand and trying to fall asleep to encouraging promises instead of discouraging headlines.

• When I’m really discouraged, I turn on an Ellie Holcomb album. Her combination of Scripture + metaphor is so beautiful.

• ’s book on grief & death is another great resource as she navigates her mother’s sickness and passing. Find more here, or read the full book.

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This post is part of a blog hop with Exhale—an online community of women pursuing creativity alongside motherhood, led by the writing team behind . Click here to view the next post in the series "Unscripted.”

Screen-time stresses me out! But Mary shared practical insights at a MomCo meeting and offered practical tools and frameworks for all ages. She has fantastic resources for parents and educators too, enjoy!

🔖 Topics Covered:

• Introduction: Meet Mary Eschen, Parenting Expert and Host of Parenting Decoded

• Mary’s Parenting Journey: From Helicopter Mom to Love and Logic Coach

• Screen Time and Technology: Practical Tips for Today’s Kids: tools like Bark.com.

• Building Human Connection: One-on-One Time with Children

• Resources and Tools: Podcast & lectures: www.parentingdecoded.com

  

• Closing Prayer and Reflection: Applying God’s Guidance in Parenting

  • Proverbs 4:23 – “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.”

  • 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.”

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*You can find all the books/resources from interviews here.

I rushed up the stairs, out of breath. Huffing and puffing at 9:29am on a Monday morning. I dropped off the kids, kissed my husband, and chugged a smoothie.

I scrawled my name on the sign-in sheet and settled into a leather chair.

“Grace?” the receptionist called.

I offered a weak smile and maneuvered my way into the dental seat, careful not to knock over any equipment. The doctor adjusted her glasses and asked about the holiday break. My heart rate slowly settled—but then the whirring began.

Although my father was a dentist, I have a bad track record with cavities. (Going to bed with popcorn isn’t that terrible, right?) I took a deep breath and prepared for a bad report.

I tried to open my mouth wide and drown out the buzzing with background music.

Freezing water rushed over my already sensitive teeth. I anticipated pain, cavities, and more fillings. After gulping down fresh air and squirming to the side I mumbled, “Are we done?”

The doctor chuckled, “No.” I tried to remember she was here to help me. Even though I clenched and fidgeted, hoping she would speed things up. Finally the whirring stopped and I sat upright.

Although the procedure was uncomfortable, it was beneficial.

As I look toward the new year, I have the choice to anticipate the future with worry or hope.

When I sit in the dentist chair, I remind myself: there will be painful moments ahead. I can’t control the process, but I can control my attitude.

How will we anticipate 2026?

6 Books I’m Anticipating in 2026

*In no particular order.

1. Cradled by she offered great feedback when I pitched to Risen Motherhood, and I can’t wait to read this!

2. You’re In Good Company by . Their work is beautiful and fun to read, excited about the recipes too! 😋

3. The Pursuit of Holy Leisure by , I’ve been pre-reading this, and it’s rich with wisdom.

4. Grace Will be There by , her writing is tender and thoughtful, and the cover is stunning!

5. Made to Rest: True Peace in a World That Never Stops by Aimee Joseph. I had the pleasure of meeting Aimee at her home church in SD, I loved visiting her community and can’t wait to read this.

6. Praying in Pain: How to Know You’re Heard When You Haven’t Been Healed by . Her previous book Known & Loved offers deep truths and timely reminders, and I’m interested to see her take on this topic.

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This post is part of a blog hop with Exhale—an online community of women pursuing creativity alongside motherhood, led by the writing team behind . Click here to view the next post in the series "Anticipate”

Happy January! I teamed up with a group of fellow Christian writers to help chase away the winter blues and bring some cheer.

Enter the Giveaway for a chance to win one of three prizes:1

• PRIZE ONE: $450 Amazon Gift Card

• PRIZE TWO: Cozy Book Bundle: Includes 10 great books + $20 Amazon gift card

• PRIZE THREE: Cozy Gift Bundle: Includes a Starbucks gift card, a $20 Amazon gift card, a faith-based memoir bundle (includes two books and a journal), tea, chocolate, comfy socks, and a candle.

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