An Ode to October

"May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may OVERFLOW with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”- Romans 15:13

“Not so fast, my friend.” I know that for many, the holiday season is a favorite time of the year. We move feverishly and cheerfully into this special time of thanksgiving and gift-giving.

As much as I love what November (Thanksgiving) and December (Christmas) deliver of joy, peace, hope, and blessing, I DO NOT WANT TO MISS (the special and powerful, the personal and profound, the above measure and beyond expression) THE THINGS GOD DID IN OCTOBER. The goodness of God is on full display everyday and overflowing in exceeding expressions to each of us. In 1 Timothy 1:14 Paul writes, “The grace of our Lord was poured out on me abundantly, along with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus.”

Before we make dinner arrangements for Thanksgiving and begin decorating for Christmas, let’s take time to REFLECT ON and REJOICE IN all that God has done in the last month. Psalm 145:7 says, “They celebrate Your abundant goodness and joyfully sing of Your righteousness.”

Here are ways to celebrate the last month:

-You can take time to praise God for a PROVISION RECEIVED. For example, I am thankful for my new car.

- You can take time to process a LESSON LEARNED. For example, the Holy Spirit has been focusing me on how and when to respond to people.

- You can take time to meditate on an ANSWERED PRAYER. For example, God exceeded our expectations and covered our every need at Men’s Retreat.

- You can respond with humility to a FAVOR BESTOWED. For example, our oldest son is thriving in his first year of Law School, having top scores on multiple exams this month.

There is much for us to give thanks for because there is much God is doing around the clock and all year long! Take time this week to consider and celebrate God’s good and gracious October’s Overflow to you!