Happy Father's Day!

Happy Father's Day to the Best Father A Girl Could Ask For!

I am very grateful that my siblings and I had the opportunity to grow up with our father in home. It was a blessing to have a father who was not only there in the home but who was also a family man that participated in our rearing. My dad supported each of us in our activities growing up whether it was coaching a flag football team or being a chaperone at a girl scout camping trip. He was always right alongside my mother. He was also a very hardworking man, he worked two jobs to care for our family up until he was no longer able. Although he worked two jobs, that did not stop him from cooking and cleaning the house.  My dad was present in all areas of our family life. To this day, my dad is still very supportive of each of us and encourages us to be better and follow our dreams. My dad is an awesome role model for my brothers and an example to me and my sister of the type of man we should have. I am proud to say that I found a good one like my dad! I love my father dearly and I am thankful to have him in my life!

I also want to take a moment to wish a Happy Father's Day to my wonderful husband and father-in-law!

Happy Father's Day to ALL the Fathers!!

With Gallons of Love,

J.G. 

Spending Time with God

 

In the past, I would spend a lot of time trying to figure out the "proper" way to spend time with God. I would wonder if my quiet time with God lasted long enough, if I was reading the correct devotional for the day, if I was praying long enough, etc.  I wanted my quiet time with God to be just right. However, it became more of a burden because I was consumed with all these questions instead of just enjoying the time spent. Over the years, God has taught me that there is no specific formula to spending time with him.  There aren't any special guidelines you have to follow.  There is no specific length of time that's required.  It's more about the quality of time than the quantity of time. The key is to just be present in His presence.

Carve out time in your day for just you and God, away from any and all distractions.  Allow the Lord to lead you in what He wants you to do during your quiet time.  I ask God what He wants me to do and I do whatever I feel like I'm being led to do.  My quiet time now differs from day to day. I don't have a set amount of time and I don't have a step by step guide that I follow.  I just allow the time to be led by the Holy Spirit.  One day I may be led to listen to a sermon, the next day I may be led to put on some worship music and write a gratitude prayer, the day after that I may be led to blog, and the day after that I may be led to study a particular verse.  I've learned to just follow the Holy Spirit's leading and I get so much more out of my quiet time with God.

My advice to anyone who may struggle with their quiet time routine is to just be led by God.  God will meet you wherever you are.  He just wants time with you.  So don't get caught up on all of the specifics and particulars.  Just show up with an open heart and He will surely guide you.

With Gallons of Love,

J.G.