Stop and Smell the Roses

Before the hustle and bustle of the day began, I made sure to wake up early and savor the sweet scent of the roses blooming in my garden. In that serene moment, I allowed myself to reflect on life's wonders and offer my earliest thoughts to God. 

The amount of things going on is overwhelming - dealing with fires, constant alerts, smoke, undergoing tests, and waiting for biopsy results. I'm feeling the pressure. 

John 16:33  "These things I have spoken to you, so that in Me you may have peace. In the world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world.” 

The noise of everyday life can be overwhelming, can't it? It seems like we're constantly bombarded with messages and distractions everywhere we turn. Even in the most serene moments, there's always something vying for our attention. It's hard to escape the constant barrage of information, whether in the form of commercials, emails, social media or even just the hectic pace of everyday life.

In the midst of all this chaos, it's important to take a moment to appreciate the little things. Why can't people just slow down and enjoy the simple pleasures of life?

Stop and Smell the Roses. (if you're not allergic) 

Philippians 4:6-7: "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."

For some of us, it is a matter of making deliberated choices to stop and smell the roses. In the midst of the busyness and noise of everyday life, I've heard that some women have to intentionally set aside specific appointment times for prayer in order to connect with God without distractions. 

Hey, whatever works. 

1 Peter 5:6-7: Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.

Taking a moment to pause and appreciate the beauty of life can be symbolized by stopping and smelling the roses. It's about allowing yourself the time to engage in activities like writing a heartfelt poem, carefully handwriting a meaningful passage from the Bible on your most elegant stationery, and simply taking a moment to ponder and reflect. Devote to actually studying a book of the Bible. Even if singing isn't your thing, it's about embracing the joy of singing, as Psalms 100:1 encourages us to "make a joyful noise to the Lord," regardless of our singing abilities. If at all possible, get deep into nature - that always works for me. 

When I start feeling anxious about things that are beyond my control, like wildfires or medical tests, I find it helpful to remind myself that there's so much more to life than the external stressors we often get caught up in.

John 14:27: Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.

Today is a much better day for me. I think I was really anxious because I had to undergo an upper GI endoscopy, and I wasn't emotionally prepared for it. After the procedure, I was still recovering from the anesthesia - I even mistakenly said I took ibuprofen instead of Tylenol. I was still feeling mentally fuzzy and allowed myself to get worked up. Fortunately, my daughter-in-law, who is a nurse, reassured me and made me feel better. However, I realized that I needed to turn to my Abba for His support, so I did that this morning and now I feel relieved and refreshed.

I'm still feeling exhausted and finding it difficult to eat. The loss of my appetite is frustrating and I'm looking forward to its return! My throat doesn't hurt anymore, but I do have a hoarse voice. You could even call me Froggy at this point!

Have a Great Day and Take Care,

Froggy  🐸