gratitude Archives - Alive and Active Life

At Easter – Always Say “Yes”

Posted onMarch 29, 2026March 30, 2026

Alive and Active Life

At Easter - Always Say "Yes"

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Before we start with “Always Say Yes,” I want to tell you about an Easter devotional – FREE – to use this week. This tool gives you 2 pages for each day that feature:

First, a “Brief Focus” with reflective thoughts.
Second, a “Fun Activity” for each day.
Third, a “Teaching Point” that blends those two sections into practical action points for your life.

If you follow us on your favorite podcast app, you’ll get the audio episodes of the same content in your feed. So, you can have a visual and audio version to Prepare For Easter.

Click here to get your free copy.

Privilege

Posted onMarch 23, 2026March 23, 2026

Alive and Active Life

Privilege

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Right now, I’m thinking of the late Queen Elizabeth II of England. One thing I remember and admire about her is how she always carried herself. Without doubt, she portrayed quality character, even in difficulties. Matter of fact, as I followed her life and conduct, I witnessed how she portrayed her position of privilege.

How does a discussion about privilege apply to you? Let’s explore together.

The Power Of 2 Little Verses – Scripture Dissection

Posted onMarch 9, 2026March 9, 2026

Alive and Active Life

The Power Of 2 Little Verses - Scripture Dissection

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Think for a minute. What is your most valuable and effective daily resource? In fact, what are your top two tools you rely on most to effectively navigate your day? Your phone? Car? Washer and dryer? Backyard grill? To-do list? Cup of coffee? Bread machine? Google maps? What if I told you about two powerful tools that help you navigate the territory of your soul each day? Interestingly, that’s where the power of 2 little verses comes in.

Let’s explore.

Refreshing And Rare: Hope For This Year

Posted onJanuary 12, 2026January 12, 2026

Alive and Active Life

Refreshing And Rare: Hope For This Year

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When you think of “refreshing and rare,” who comes to your mind? What character qualities define this person? I’m guessing they are courageous, personable, persevering. Further, I imagine they are kind and gentle, as well as strong and honest. Most of all, the person who comes to your mind probably lives with hope.

As you enter this next year, you need hope, too. The next 12 months provide opportunity to manage, enjoy, and problem-solve in your life. Thankfully, God provides refreshing and rare hope for every day.

Peace At Christmastime – Advent #1

Posted onDecember 1, 2025December 1, 2025

Alive and Active Life

Peace At Christmastime - Advent #1

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Many cherished Christmas carols talk about peace. Consider Silent Night – “sleep in heavenly peace.” Or, Hark The Herald Angels – “peace on earth, goodwill toward men.” Yes, for centuries people have yearned for peace. Particularly, peace at Christmastime.

Let’s face it. This world really needs peace. Interestingly, peace starts in each individual heart. Equally, lasting peace only comes from the “Prince of Peace” – Jesus Christ.

So, peace at Christmastime . . .

A Mindset Of Gratitude

Posted onNovember 24, 2025January 8, 2026

Alive and Active Life

A Mindset Of Gratitude

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It’s Thanksgiving! Time for a “self-check” on gratitude. A mindset of gratitude makes a huge difference, even when things are difficult or painful.

So, if you had a Gratitude Scale that measured how thankful you are, where would you score on a scale 1-10?

Let’s explore “mindset of gratitude.” But first – let’s have some fun with that Gratitude Scale we mentioned.

Live With Courage And Confidence

Posted onNovember 10, 2025January 8, 2026

Alive and Active Life

Live With Courage And Confidence

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Recently, I connected with a dear friend and learned about her struggle with cancer. Not only her courage to face cancer, but the tenacity and grit it takes to go through chemo treatments. On top of that, to deal with side effects. Little sleep, loss of hair, skin so sensitive you can’t comfortably wear a hat or light scarf. Terrible pain. Time off work. Daily responsibilities still demand attention. Without a doubt, it takes courage and confidence to make it through such difficult circumstances.

How I admire this friend. Each day, she rises into new courage as she manages these realities. Plus, she remains confident God will carry her through. At the same time, she is honest and authentic about her sufferings.

So, let’s dive into what it means to live with courage and confidence each day – no matter what your situation.

Strong Hope #5 – Scripture Dissection

Posted onOctober 27, 2025January 8, 2026

Alive and Active Life

Strong Hope #5 - Scripture Dissection

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As I consider today’s material: “Strong Hope,” I’m reminded of a Bible passage in one of my quiet times. Interestingly, a thought struck me as I read that passage. Simply this.

If I were to make a list of all the struggles, issues, sorrows, and difficulties in my life so far –

– and if I were to put a column of dates next to them (similar to what I have in my Bible)

– then, if I were to record a verse or promise God gave me for that particular situation in a third column

– I would have an amazing record of God’s faithfulness in my neediness. In fact, I’d have enough material to publish a book about strong hope.

This is #5 in a series on hope.

Change Me, Lord! New Hope #4

Posted onOctober 20, 2025January 8, 2026

Alive and Active Life

Change Me, Lord! New Hope #4

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Have you ever desperately cried out “change me, Lord?” I have.

I vividly remember a time I said this many years ago. Challenges had piled up. Demands were high. Expectations even higher. I was pulled in too many directions. And I felt overwhelmed.

You Are Included – Hope #3

Posted onOctober 13, 2025January 8, 2026

Alive and Active Life

You Are Included - Hope #3

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As I write “You Are Included,” I remember a special event several years ago.

I was finishing a book manuscript in a bed and breakfast when I met a lovely couple staying in the next room. In the dining area, they invited me to join them at their table. I learned they were on their honeymoon through a previous, introductory conversation. So, I declined. Still, I felt special to be invited.

The next day, they invited me again! I told them my reservation – “You’re on your honeymoon, and I don’t want to barge in!” They reassured they wanted to visit with me. Suddenly, I had courage to say, “yes.” Subsequently, I found myself delightfully included at their table.

This is #3 in a series on hope. It’s been encouraging exploring hope for two articles. Check them out. (See below.)