October Recap

The leaves are changing, and the days are cooler here in Virginia. As I pause to breathe and reflect on the last few weeks, I am so very grateful for all God’s goodness, and equally exhausted because the days have been filled with busyness and unexpected challenges.

I’m thankful for the slower evenings ahead now that my kids’ sports seasons are wrapping up. I’m counting the blessings of moments of beauty, joy, and laughter and the glimpses of God’s grace in my weakness through the bustling days. 

Many of us have carried hard things in this season as well, from illness to loss and everything in between. In addition, this month we’ve witnessed the division and brokenness on the news and maybe even in your own communities. 

Wherever you find yourself on this last Monday in October, I want to remind you of a few things we’ve discussed at LIFEstory. 

1. There’s a spiritual battle going on around us and within us, but we can take courage and face our days with peace, because Christ has already overcome the world.

2. Put on the Armor of God every day. God gives us everything we need to stand firm, take courage, and have hope, but we need to spend time with Him to be prepared for the spiritual fight.

3. Stay awake and be aware of God’s Presence. Knowing you are not alone can fill you with peace and assurance. You never have to face your battles alone. God is always with you.

I leave you with a poem my daughter wrote a few weeks ago and a reminder to “be strong, and let your heart take courage, all you who wait on the Lord!”  ~ Psalm 31:24 ESV

Facing trials, 

Facing strife,

All these things are part of life.

Doubt might fill you.

Fear might grow.

But there is something you should know…

In the trials,

In the doubt, 

Courage can exist throughout.

Courage takes a fighting form, 

Helping us to face the storm.

So take your shield,

And take your sword, 

And stand up tall beside your Lord. 

Take His hand,

Hold on tight,

God will help you win the fight!

Poem by Monroe Jones, age 16

Take Time to Pause

Take time to reflect before the month’s end. Where have you seen God move in your life this month? What are you grateful for? How can you rely on God’s strength even in the struggles of the season? Are you dressed with His armor for the days ahead?