Do you need to take more little risks daily risks despite how illness tries to hold you back? Dorothea shares.
“I know that there is nothing better for people than to be happy and to do good while they live. That each of them may eat and drink, and find satisfaction in all their toil-this is the gift of God. I know that everything God does will endure forever; nothing can be added to it and nothing taken from it. God does it so that people will fear Him” (Ecclesiastes 3:12-14).
We live in a city filled with neat things to do. And even though I can’t get out as often as I’d like, I enjoy hearing about new trends from family and friends.
Recently, my husband discovered a new bakery.
“Wonder if they have anything I can eat?” I asked.
“They might.” He was out of the car, holding my door open before I unhooked my seat belt.
“Any gluten-free items?” I asked.
“Everything you see,” the lady answered. “Gluten-free, soy-free, vegan, and our ice cream is dairy-free.”
That was the first time, in years, each one of us could leave with a treat.
Because of my physical limits and dietary restrictions, I often find myself shrinking away from new places. However, I learned a valuable lesson that day–it’s okay to take a risk. And, if I allowed doubt to overrule my emotions, I would have missed those delicious treats.
Yes, limits define our lives, making it difficult to get out and try new things, but we should never give up hope. We can find joy in the small things and find ways to bring adventure and new experiences into our lives.
Take a risk. Try something new. Renew your mind. Restore your soul.
God never leaves us alone. He is always with us, helping us and holding us up (Isaiah 41:10). His mercies are new every morning (Lamentations 3:22-23)–and that includes the help we need to have courage, to step out in faith when He calls us to go to new places, to do new things, or to meet new people.
When we trust God and remain open to the new things He brings into our lives, we position ourselves to receive blessings that bring us joy, hope, and a renewed sense of His presence in our lives.
Prayer: Father, thank You for the little things that bring us so much joy. Help us overcome the fear and doubt that keep us from being adventurous. Renew our awe and wonder for Your beautiful world. Amen.
About the Author:
Dorothea Love lives in Los Angeles with her husband, Norman. They are the parents of two adult children. She has lived with chronic illness and pain for over 30 years. She knows she must rely on God’s grace to strengthen her whenever she faces a challenge. She invites you to read some of her other work on her blog: http://www.dorothealove.wordpress.com.
Do you recall a time you took a risk, despite your doubts that it was worth it, and God gave you a surprise?
Chronic Illness Pain Daily Devotionals 