life beyond the well…

Author Archives: erin.almond


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Hosting Thanksgiving

“In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” 1 Thessalonians 5:18 (NKJV)

Today Preacherman and I will host our first Thanksgiving as a married couple.  Last year we celebrated our first married Thanksgiving with his family, and this year we are excited for them to make the trip to visit us in Jacksonville.

While I love spending time with family and friends, I also enjoy time to myself.  It’s something that I have accepted as a result of being an introvert.  I’ve never been one to host events or have lots of people over, so today is a huge stretch for me, and I’m determined for it to be a good experience.

I recognize that devil can manipulate great situations, forcing us to miss the blessings in front of us.  Because of that, I prepared the following reminders to help me navigate this first thanksgiving hosting:

Lord, when I feel overwhelmed by the presence of people, help me to remember the blessing of family and fellowship.

Lord, when I feel annoyed by the dishes and the laundry, help me to remember the blessing it is to have food to eat and clothes to wear.

Lord, when I am disturbed by the noise, help me to rest in your quietness and remember the blessing it is to be able to hear.

Lord, when I feel frustrated and cramped in my home, help me to remember the blessing of having a home and having those to share it with.

Lord, let my fellowship and my conversation encourage others and bring You glory.

Lord, let us seek ways to serve others as a demonstration of our gratitude for all that You have provided for us.

Lord, let me remember that in every circumstance, you are in control.

Lord, let me have fresh eyes to see the beauty and blessings in every moment.

I’m believing that today will be a great day.  Happy Thanksgiving from our family to yours!

Be encouraged!  Peace and Blessings!


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God’s Delight

The other morning as I was helping my little one prep for the day, I marveled to myself at how flawlessly she followed our routine. She knew exactly what to do, step by step, and almost didn’t need me there to facilitate anything. Nevertheless I sat and watched quietly, making sure everything was okay.  Once or twice, she would call out for assistance, but for me, this was mostly a spectator sport.

As I watched, I reflected on how much she’s grown, even over the past few months. Tasks that have previously required instructions at every step have nearly been mastered. I delighted at her growth, while simultaneously wishing that time would slow down for a little while longer.  She’s never going to be this age again.  And while the days can be long, the years are so short.

As I delighted in her growth, I imagined that this is the same delight that God feels when we grow.  As we master things and circumstances where we previously need his guidance at every step, we grow to a place where we are in tune with how we should handle things and we almost don’t need him to facilitate that area of our life anymore.  Regardless of our growth, He never leaves us, continuously watching and providing support, making sure that everything is okay.  And when we do call out, He answers and comes to our assistance.

Every now and then, I get a glimpse of how God sees us, and I’m amazed.  I’m so grateful for a God who delights in me and over me, who stays with me as I grow and at times act as if I have outgrown Him.  Thank you, Lord for your presence and your patience.  Amen.

Be encouraged!  Peace and blessings!