ENJOY GOD’S GIFTS
It’s that time again when temperatures begin to cool, and leaves begin to change colors. We might even need a jacket outside on these cool, breezy days. While we may welcome the refreshment of autumn days after summer’s heat, the chill in the air might bring visions of cozying up inside near a fireplace, sipping some delicious hot cocoa. Autumn might just be my very favorite season of the year to enjoy God’s gifts of nature. I love the word pictures painted by this slightly humorous poem I wrote a few years ago:
An Autumn Poem On this crisp Autumn day Blowing breezes cause a chill I hurry on the way To my home upon the hill Next to the cozy fire Warm fuzzy socks await me To rest is my desire Now where did I put my key Steaming cocoa beckons Laced with a touch of cayenne One sip and in seconds Warmth engulfs me there and then Wrapped in a flannel shawl I lounge in a comfy chair Shadows play on the wall As flames dance without a care
One of my favorite things to do is to walk outdoors quietly by myself. It helps me to clear my mind of unnecessary things and to focus on God and His creation. It’s a good habit to develop daily especially when I think I just don’t have time. That is usually when I need it most. Here’s another poem I wrote a few years ago:
The Gift of Nature
When I walk outside on a bright autumn day where the wind blows cool making all the trees sway When the air is crisp giving me a slight chill when my eyes look up to see over the hill It gives me such peace a bonding with nature as I breathe the air so refreshingly pure This is a lifeline connecting me to God who created all down to the very sod This gift of nature So beautiful to see Makes me feel I have glanced at eternity
As you go about each day, won’t you pause a few short minutes?
Forget the chaos all around and think of God’s gifts.
ENJOY GOD’S GIFTS OF CARE
When life seems overwhelming it helps to take time out and reflect on God, to be thankful, and to ask for help and guidance.
You may be going through a difficult time or a time of questioning and doubt, and not even feel like being thankful. Maybe you think God doesn’t care. Beloved, He does care. I believe this with my whole heart. Though we can’t see through the darkness, He can. He gives hope and will lead us through to the other side.
I’d like to invite you to meditate on this passage from the Bible found in the book of Romans. It’s very encouraging to know that even when we have no words God’s spirit speaks for us.
Now in this hope we were saved,
(Romans 8:24-28)
but hope that is seen is not hope, because who hopes for what he sees?
Now if we hope for what we do not see, we eagerly wait for it with patience.
In the same way the Spirit also helps us in our weakness,
because we do not know what to pray for as we should,
but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with inexpressible groanings.
And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit,
because he intercedes for the saints according to the will of God.
We know that all things work together for the good of those who love God,
who are called according to his purpose.
I’m linking up with #InspireMeMonday
Dear Gayl, I love your autumn poetry! And yes, just looking outside at God’s beautiful nature causes my heart to be lifted and to look up to Him. Blessings, love, and hugs to you dear friend! ❤️
Thank you so much, dear Bettie! I love how nature can point us to God and give us joy. Blessings, love and hugs to you, too, dear sister! xoxo
Dear Gayl,
Fall is absolutely my favorite season💖❗Your Fall poetry is beautiful ❗I was praying just today, and I mentioned Romans 8:28 in my prayer. The Lord really gave me such peace in a stressful and confusing moment. I am so glad to call you my friend, Gayl❗Thank you so much for your prayers & encouragement ❗
God bless you🙏💖❗,
Terry James
Thank you so much, Terry. Interesting how the Lord gives us scriptures and also reinforces it by bringing to our attention more than once. I’m so glad He gave you such peace just when you needed it. I am happy to pray for you and am also glad to call you my friend. Blessings, love and hugs to you!
Beautiful poetry. I wish I could put something together like that!
Mandy, thank you so much for your encouragement. Blessings to you! xoxo