Life is but a blink of an eye

Today would have been my dad's 86th birthday and when he was diagnosed with lung cancer I ended up staying with him and in one of our conversations dad was telling me that he couldn't believe how fast it went by.

So friends today I want to encourage you to slow down, pause frequently, reflect on the beauty around you, reflect on God's goodness and provision, enjoy the simple things in life because it WILL go by like a blink of an eye.

I want to encourage you to keep the right perspective with everything, no matter how difficult life gets, remember to reflect frequently on all the reasons you should be grateful.

Every day write down five things you are grateful for because this will help you to keep the right perspective with all you are facing.

Five things I am grateful for today:

1) God, his guidance & hand of protection, and my faith

Without Him I couldn't possibly get through a day, let alone any challenges that arise

2) My dad

It's his birthday! His gift to me was that he taught me perseverance, determination and how to rely on my faith to overcome every obstacle I face. SO grateful for his presence in my life & my kids lives.

3) Our many friends

The friends who took us in when we had to evacuate our home due to Dixie fire, our friends who get together for dinner & games (it's a great distraction during these crazy times), I'm also grateful for the MANY friends who are praying for us, the safety of our home, and surrounding communities! How blessed are we? I have nothing but peace and gratitude in my heart this morning.

4) Family

We are truly blessed to have the family we do. From my mom & dad whom I missed deeply, to my siblings, grandparents, aunts/uncles, cousins and extended family. Their resilience and strength continues to encourage me!

5) Our home

Whether our home is spared or taken by the Dixie fire I am grateful we had it. God has provided for us throughout our lives and I know he will continue to provide for us no matter the outcome.

Proverbs 3:5-6

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.

If you had a loved one pass away recently, be grateful they were apart of your life, focus on all the precious memories you shared together (1 Thess. 5:18). If you are facing health issues, thank God for strengthening you to get through it (Phil 4:13), if you are unsure of your future be grateful that God is faithful in guiding us one step at a time, be patient with your journey.

Philippians 4:13

I can do everything through him who gives me strength.

I hope this message encourages you to live your life with expectancy and eagerness, pay attention friends and watch how God uses your challenges to strengthen you and those around you. Choose to be grateful in this moment and not fearful. Life goes by like a blink of an eye, use every opportunity & difficulty you face to inspire, encourage, and lift the spirit of others because in the end you realize the only thing that matters is that we showed up and helped others along the way by sharing God's words of encouragement with them!

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.

Written by: Jill Theriault

Crossroads Coaching - @crossroadscoachingongodstime