Introducing Bear

Mike and I took the plunge and decided to get a puppy! We figured that it was now or never and having a little extra time on our hands made it much easier to make the commitment! Our sheltie puppy is named Bear (Mike wanted to name him something that sounded outdoor-like and brave). Bear is a joy and a handful, but he is always SO cute! We have a lot to learn as new puppy parents, but we are enjoying working together and taking some of our focused attention off of our circumstances and putting it towards loving such a cute little puppy!

Thank you Jesus!

Mike came in the house yesterday after his devotions and shared with me James 1. This chapter has been such encouragement to Mike and I these last few days. I would like to share two parts of this chapter that give my soul rest in the midst of difficult times.

James 1:2-4 "Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trial of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything."

James 1:12 "Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him."

Aren't God's promises and reassurances just beyond amazing. Everything God does in our life is truly intended to mature us and grow us into stronger Christ followers...yet so often we doubt God's unconditional love for us.

Thank you Jesus for your love and continued work in me, even when I feel that the trials may never end.