Bad Timing Grace

I got a call right in the middle of doing homework with my grandsons right before their mother was about to come get them.  I didn't respond well to the call. I just said that I was busy and couldn't talk right now and I'd call them back later.

Sure we all are busy from time to time and have experienced situations like this, but I didn't handle it calmly. I think my voice conveyed that I was frustrated/annoyed by the interruption in what I was doing. I was not being a good example of how Christ works in my life. Instead, I should have prayed to Christ for Bad Timing Grace. I'm prayerful that I will pray for this grace before answering the phone when I'm busy the next time.

Price Tag Grace

I went was in a local grocery store today. I picked up a head of lettuce, because it said it was ninety-nine cents. I got a couple of other things when I was there. I proceeded to go through the check-out. 

I noticed that the lettuce rang up at $1.29. I debated whether to say something or not, but the whole reason I got the lettuce was that it was ninety-nine cents. I did say something to the cashier, but remembering how I should be gracious as a Christian, I tried to not act too frustrated. I should have prayed for Price Tag Grace, but everything happened so fast! 

Fortunately, the sales lady took the $1.29 off and re-rang it up at ninety-nine cents. Was it really worth the thirty cent difference to draw attention to this? Probably not. I'm just so thankful that the cashier handled it graciously, as well.

Competitive Grace

Have you ever had someone who has been competitive with you for the recognition or the attention. It's frustrating to say the least when you can see through their behaviors, but others seem blind to it. It's easy to want to draw their attention to the overt actions of the person who is trying to pull most of the attention to themselves.

It's not always easy to throw away those visions of basking in the lime-light of the recognition or attention of others, but it is amazing when we ask for Competitive Grace. After praying for it, Christ can change our need for this attention to a calm feeling where we know Christ always knows the BIG picture and we no longer have to prove anything to anyone to feel secure inside!

Grateful for this Blog Grace

I'm just realizing how grateful I am for this blog. It's not that it's this blog that actually does anything, it's Christ that does it. He shows me how I get so caught up in other things and I tend to put Him on the back burner for times when things are less hectic.

So, you may ask me, "So, how's that working for you, Debbie?" Not very well, I have to admit. It is making the time for Christ in midst of recent busyness, that is opening up my eyes to what I've been doing. Working on these Christian blogs that Christ has led me to write, gives me Joy when it's felt so illusive, as of late. I feel blessed that Christ has given me Grateful for this Blog Grace, where He has shown me that He's right there in my corner even when I'm too busy to be in my own corner. 

Missing Joy Grace

I've mentioned in recent posts that this year things have been especially hectic for me. Maybe, it's Satan's way of sneaking up on me, because he tries to trip Christians up at times. Anyway, I have fallen prey to these sneak attacks more often than not in the last month and I'm ashamed of it.

The first thing this tells me, that I'm not spending the time in prayer daily with Christ. Additionally, it's not just my morning prayers that I sometimes ramble through, it's not turning to Christ for His grace when I am confronted with stressful and potentially problematic situations. Not smart!!!

As a result of all of this, I realize that I've felt a lack of joy in my life, but there is an easy remedy. Christ is the source of all Joy and He will give it freely if I ask Him, not just once, but maybe every day or with every stressful and potentially problematic situation. I need His Missing Joy Grace, because I feel so alone without it. 

Busy Calendar Grace

It's nearing the holidays and my calendar seems to be filled with more this year than in years past. Many of days on our calendar have three or four different major things to do and still be sane at the end of the day.

After I had a situation recently, where I regret not having asked for Christ's Grace in the matter and just bulldozed my way through, I need to be mindful of asking for Busy Calendar Grace, because just looking at the calendar with almost every white portion of most days filled up makes me tense. Christ can relieve this tension and can provide me with the grace to handle all these situations as an example of how He works in my life, instead of me pulling out my bulldozer and making a mess of things again!

Lack of Patience Grace

Me, have a lack of patience, never!!!! Sure!!!! I don't know if the lack of patience is because of all the busyness these days or that I had two pieces of cake when I went to visit relatives recently. 

I know that sounds funny, but I have Hypoglycemia and I don't handle refined sugars well. After having sugar, it usually drops my blood sugar low and makes me cranky, so possibly my lack of patience is due to that. Regardless, I'm responsible for what comes out of my mouth or what doesn't come out of my mouth.

In the last week, there have been a couple of times where I've interacted with others who also were in a cranky mood. Did I pray and ask for Christ's grace the way I should have? Unfortunately, I didn't, I'm sorry to say. Because if I had, Christ would have given me the Lack of Patience Grace to joked the situation off, to have ignored it, to have been less judgmental, or to have distracted the people with the cranky moods.

 Instead, my lack of turning this over to Christ's very capable hands, I made matters worse and feel terrible about it. Again, I am very blessed that Christ is all-forgiving and will again help me in situations like this when I ask Him. 

Time Crunch Grace

Well, I've been busy of late and have run behind. I just inked out some time to get on the Christian blogs I felt led to write and found that a post didn't come out on November 8, because I hadn't written one.

I feel badly for viewers, but I especially feel like I let Christ down when I let all the busy things in life fill up my time to the point that I don't find time to share the one small thing I do for Him by sharing my faith and perception with others. 

I am sorry to you, my viewers, and especially to Christ who didn't say, I'm far too busy to give my life for Debbie's sins, maybe later. Fortunately, Christ gives me Time Crunch Grace and forgives me when I ask Him. Not only that, He allows me the grace to forgive myself, because there are times I can become awfully critical of myself when I feel like I've let anyone down. I am truly sorry! Debbie

Sick Loved Ones Grace

Whether your loved one is a little sick or very sick, it can be very concerning. It's difficult when people we care about are sick, because there is so little we can actually do, except to be supportive throughout the healing process.

Sometimes, I've found myself fraught with worry over the medical condition of some loved ones and all I can do is ask Christ for Sick Loved Ones Grace. That doesn't mean that just because I prayed, the loved one I'm praying about is going to regain their health, because God alone knows His timing for all of our lives. The grace that Christ gives me is to remember this and to know that He will be there with me and them through this whether they regain their health or not.

Friendless Days Grace

There are times when I feel so overwhelmed. I want to talk to somebody, but I don't really want to burden any of my friends. When I lay down on my bed to contemplate this, the thing that always comes to mind is, I don't need others to talk to. I just need Christ! He's the one I should talk to and ask for Friendless Days Grace, and instead of looking elsewhere for answers to my concerns, all I need to do is ask Christ. 

It always seems to amaze me, because I should know that, but it seems that this realization pops in my head after feeling so alone, but I never am. Christ is right there waiting for me. He waits for me to share my concerns, fears, etc. He is there to guide me in the direction He wants me to go, since He and He alone knows which is the best way to handle things!

Hectic Day Grace

Have you ever had those hectic days where you already have too much on your plate, but things just keep being piled up on your plate and you're overwhelmed? Well, I know I have! To top that off, it seems you get unexpected phone calls when you're already running short on time to get these things accomplished!

Instead of my getting so frustrated that I let it out on everyone else, I need to be prayerful to Christ for Hectic Day Grace, so that I handle these situations in the manner that Christ would want. To top it off, it sets the foundation for the tone of those around you. They pick up on  your tensions, so your calm appropriate response to hectic days, sets a positive tone for everyone around.

Tiff Grace

Have you ever had a tiff with a loved one or relative? Sometimes, it feels good to stand your ground and wallow in your self-righteous anger, but is that what Christ wants of any of us?

When I get off of my high-horse, I need to ask Christ for Tiff Grace, so my actions and the things that I say are more befitting the Christian that Christ wants me to be.

Controlling Grace

Have you ever been around someone who feels compelled to try to control your actions? I don't know about you, but my first instinct is to not give into their desire to control. The thing is, that's my human response to this and don't know if that's what Christ wants of me.

I was thinking that people who try to control others, often feel out of control themselves. Maybe, this person needs more understanding and support. I don't know, but Christ does! That's why I need Controlling Grace from Christ, who knows exactly what my response should be when encountering someone with the need to control my actions.

My Last Nerve Grace

I don't know about you, but there are times where people are talking to me when I'm driving that gets to me. Sure, a comment or question or two is fine, but long drawn out conversations while I'm driving in traffic, especially heavy traffic can get on my nerves.

Additionally, when people are asking me to look at billboards, models of cars, birds or other things when I'm just trying to stay focused on the road, rubs my nerves raw, as well. I guess I have to admit, I take driving very seriously and try to focus on intently on the road and the actions of other drivers that may or may not come into my lane. 

Maybe, that's because I have been in an accident before which wasn't my fault, but in a split second the lives of all involved were changed. Regardless, I don't want to be rude to the person sitting in the car with me by blurting out something like, "Can't you see I'm driving!!!!" So, praying for Christ's grace when I'm on my last nerve has helped me very recently in a situation like this. I need to remember to pray for My Last Nerve Grace in future situations like this.


Less Than Good News Grace

I have Osteoporosis and have to go for checkups twice a year. I've been taking a medication to strengthen my weak bones, but it's only had minimal improvements. This time when I had my bone density test, it showed that my bones were even weaker than last year, which is scary.

Fortunately for me, Christ lifted me up when I was on the verge of becoming overwhelmed by the news. He gave me Less Than Good News Grace and I know that He will be there to support me and guide me along the way. I don't have to give into fear, because I have my Lord and Savior to lean on throughout this. I'm so very blessed!

Zip My Lip Grace

I was with someone who must have been in a bad mood. This person kept saying sarcastic things and some didn't really make sense to the situation. Fortunately, God let me know that it didn't do any good at that point to clarify the error of this person's ways or mouth. 

Usually it's not easy to sit there and not say something, but Christ gave me Zip My Lip Grace, so I didn't say counterproductive things. I am so very blessed. Also, He showed me that I don't have to respond every time someone else is trying to pull my strings.

Full of Myself Grace

As I type some of these posts to schedule for another time, I am becoming very aware that I need to pray for Full of Myself Grace. I have been so focused on my needs and frustrations, I'm not sure that it leaves room to deal with anyone else's. It doesn't allow me to be the Christian,  partner, relative and friend that Christ wants me to be.

Although I didn't realize it, I've gotten too caught up in my own little world, with my particular goals which means I'm trying to be in control of things instead of Christ. I need Him to be in control, not me! 

Fortunately for me, Christ has a very forgiving nature and will give me grace when I ask Him. I just don't want to wait so long, next time. That's one of the many reasons that these brief prayers are so beneficial!

Computer Carry Over Grace

The computer guy had to come back to fix my computer again. It wasn't his fault that it was acting up and most probably was my fault. I turned it off when it was down-loading updates, hoping to be able to work on a project. All it did was to complicate things more.

Fortunately, my husband knows someone who can fix my computer when it goes loopy or I get impatient with it. When he came over to fix it, all I could remember was how frustrated I was when I had turned my computer off that time and one thing after another happened to it, none of which allowed me to use it.

I realized that I was tense with both my husband and the computer guy, although they hadn't done anything wrong. What I needed was Computer Carry Over Grace, although I didn't ask for it in those particular words. Once Christ showed me that I was feeling frustrated for no valid reason, I was able to turn things over into His very capable hands. Somehow, all those old feelings of frustration over what happened with the computer at an earlier date resurfaced, which was unfair to both of them. Hopefully, they never picked up on my feelings of frustration, but I know that after I prayed, my interactions were much more calm, like a big burden had been removed from me.

Time's Running Out Grace

Oh, this post is most definitely for me! I need to take it to heart!

I have planned to visit some family. I paced it in my mind that I had to accomplish particular things with my foot healing and my ability to walk freely, prior to that visit. I guess I set myself up. When I paced it like that, I was taking control of things, especially my recovery and I wasn't letting Christ be in control.

I was frustrated and almost panicky as time drew closer to the visit and I realized that I hadn't made particular milestones yet. In fact, I would practice all the harder, trying to push myself to meet those imagined goals I had.

I, right now, am praying for Time's Running Out Grace, so I don't keep pushing myself too hard and so I don't make other people miserable, because I'm not meeting my imagined goals. I really have to be willing to let this self-imposed pressure reside in Christ's very capable hands. He alone can heal me in time and if not, I need to trust His timing, which is always impeccable! 

Regression Grace

I was so very pleased on the day when I was finally able to walk more closely to a normal walking pattern. I had spent so many months healing from my broken heel. It was like all this freedom was immediately on the horizon.

I was not so overjoyed when I found I could barely walk again. It was frustrating to find that there were times when I had overdone it when my leg froze up and I could barely hobble around. I often had to resort to using the walker during those times. I needed Christ's Regression Grace, although I didn't exactly ask for it in those words. 

The thing is, Christ understands when we pray to Him, even if it's in brief prayers. Even if it's what's on our minds for that brief minute. He always understands. Christ understood my prayers and helped me when I was saddened when my gait regressed. 

Somehow, I just figured it would be this steady forward movement toward total walking like I used to. Maybe, Christ is allowing me to view this from a different perspective. I don't know that I always appreciate things as much if they come too easily. 

Messy Kitchen Grace

I was recuperating from a broken bone. Every time I saw the kitchen, I could see it was getting messier and messier, but I couldn't do anything about it. My husband was cooking, cleaning, doing the laundry, etc. I don't know what I would have done without his support!

I still felt guilty about not being physically able to go help tidy up the kitchen and didn't want to say anything to my husband, because it might make him feel bad about it. I had to put the status of the kitchen and other parts of my house into Christ's very capable hands. Once I did, I no longer had to pray about it, because Christ had given me Messy Kitchen Grace and the piles, etc. never seemed to bother me after that. I am soooo very blessed! 

Over Tired Grace

I was feeling over tired before I went to Physical Therapy. All I wanted to do was cry. I have no idea why, but that's what I feel like. My body was just worn out. I was afraid that if I tried to explain it to one of the staff, I would just start blubbering, so I didn't.

The funny thing is, the Physical Therapy staff has always been very understanding and supportive. They would have understood, but I still didn't want to say anything to them about it. Sometimes, I feel like "Wimp Woman" when I feel like I can't do everything.

As I walked on the treadmill, I tried turning this all over to Christ's very capable hands. He provided me with Over Tired Grace, although I didn't exactly ask specifically for it. Shortly after that, I didn't feel so teary-eyed. I had the energy to do the tasks presented to me. When I left, I felt energized, but know this wouldn't have been possible if I hadn't prayed to Christ while I was on the treadmill.

Computer Frustration Grace!

I had someone fix my computer, but when I turned it on, a bajillion updates started downloading. I only had a little bit of time to work on a project, so after about 15 minutes, I turned off the computer.

That was only the start of it! When I turned the computer back on, thinking I could get to my files, it said that the computer hadn't shut down properly and gave me several modes to use to open my computer. When I did that, it said that their was some type of error that needed to be fixed, but I could click on the box that offered to try to identify and fix the start-up problem. I did this and it said it couldn't fix it, but when I did it again, it said that it was fixed. I closed down the computer and restarted it again.

Now, I figured I would have only a few minutes left to work on my project. Guess what? The computer said that I couldn't turn off the computer, because it was configuring all the bajillion updates. It was a lost cause and I was sooooooo frustrated, at that point. I wish I could tell you that I said a brief prayer and asked for Computer Frustration Grace, but I didn't. Instead, I walked around frustrated, making everyone else miserable until I realized I just needed to turn it over into Christ's hands. Then, it didn't bother me so much.


Lack of Adequate Time Grace

Things were really hectic. Each of the younger ones had a different obligation after they got home from school. That wouldn't have been so bad, but there had been an after school activity that made them later than usual. 

There wasn't enough time to complete all the homework and check it before they headed to the next events they had to go to. I could feel myself getting intense, because of the lack of adequate time to complete everything. Then I prayed and Christ calmed me down. Fortunately, He gave me Lack of Adequate Time Grace.

 I was able to finish the remainder of the time together and be more composed. What surprised me was that we got much more completed than I anticipated.

4 Letter Word Grace

Well, I was in the vicinity of someone using 4 letter words. There's a part of me that just wanted to talk to the person and tell them how unnecessary that is, especially when there are kids around. Instead, after praying for 4 Letter Word Grace, Jesus calmed me down and I took the kids elsewhere instead of making a scene.

Can't Make Everybody Happy Grace

I know that most of these posts are about how Christ gave me grace after I said a brief prayer, so that I can respond with grace rather than saying what I had been thinking.

Well, this time the grace is for me! I was thinking about a conversation and was concerned that someone might have misinterpreted something I said.

 In the middle of that, Christ made me aware that I need some Can't Make Everybody Happy Grace. That wasn't for anyone else. It's so I don't continue to worry about it. It's really nice to know that Christ looks after me and doesn't want me to be unduly concerned about things when I shouldn't be.

Picking Up Grace

I noticed some things on the floor that might have been a fall hazard. Since I've fallen several times, I go to great extents to make sure there aren't things laying around that someone might trip on.

One time, I asked another person to pick the things up for me. They only reluctantly picked up one potential hazard, but was very resentful about picking up the others.

I had a difficult time understanding their lack of response,especially knowing it could possibly cause an unsafe walking environment.

I just had to ask for Picking Up Grace. Christ, let me know that mainly, I just had to stop talking. No amount of trying to explain why the situation was unsafe was going to make a positive difference. 

Mind Changing Grace

We were getting together with others for dinner and and another couple was doing all the cooking. One of the couples invited contacted me to see about bringing a relative to the dinner. I contacted the hosts who were very gracious about the added dinner guest.

Then, I got word that they didn't think they were going to come. Later, they thought they were coming afterall, which would have been fine.

They must have contacted me two or three times besides that saying they were and then weren't coming. There's a part of me that wanted to say, "Could you just make up your minds?" Of course, I wouldn't have been a good example of Christ's Grace if I had said that. 

Instead, I asked for Mind Changing Grace. Actually, what came to mind was all the times I changed my mind when I made decisions when I was younger. Christ didn't just give me grace, so that I didn't say something rude, He also gave me compassion for their situation.

Driving Advice Grace

I was recently driving with another adult riding with me. While I was driving, the other person directed me to, "Go now!" This happened several times while we were in the car together.

I think my first instinct is to rationalize why I wanted to wait to turn until it felt safer. Then, I usually, end up getting frustrated for the person's feelings of superiority and bossiness.

In times like that, I really would like to say something like, "When you're driving, you can turn when you want to," but that wouldn't be very gracious. Instead, I said a brief prayer asking for Driving Advice Grace. Fortunately for me, Christ calmed me down and I no longer felt like responding with a less than gracious reply.

Shared Food Grace

I happened to be near someone who had previously been given a variety of packaged and canned foods. I got the impression that this food was shared with this person because of a perceived financial need, which in my opinion was a really nice thing for them to do.

I personally was appalled that the person who had been given this food had nothing grateful to say about it. The discussion was complaining about the food choices, where they came from and what the motives were for giving those particular food items, as if someone had a secret motive in giving those particular items of food.

It was difficult for me to not say something about being more grateful instead of complaining, but instead I said a brief prayer asking for Shared Food Grace. I had a difficult time understanding the resentment of the person who received the food, but I don't have to understand in order to respond with grace. Fortunately, Christ took care of that for me!

Space Grace

I was trying to get something done quickly. I think I was trying to finalize the project before I had to go somewhere else. I saw a person was standing in the way, but they didn't realize it. Once I realized their being there might hinder my getting my project done in time, I asked them nicely to please move a little before I needed to go there.

The person didn't move, so I asked again. I got frustrated when I really needed to go through there and had to ask the person a third time. At that point, I said a brief prayer asking Christ for Space Grace. If I continued to hold onto resentments because the person didn't move when I asked, I wouldn't have been the example Christ wants me to be of how He works in my Life.

Ingratitude Grace

Sometimes, it's just frustrating when people don't even acknowledge what you've done for them.  My husband packed up a gift and pictures to send to someone that he thought would appreciate them.

I was frustrated when no one called, emailed, or texted to let him know they got it. For me to share my frustration right then, may have made the situation worse for my husband. I prayed for Ingratitude Grace, so I could let go of the frustration and move on to another topic.

Bite Your Lip Grace

I could already tell that a situation wasn't going to go well for someone. It wasn't the type of situation where the person would have been open to suggestions, so  I just watched quietly. During that time, I said a brief prayer asking for Christ's Grace.

Again, I prayed for The Bite Your Lip Grace, so that I didn't draw attention to the negative outcome of that person's decision. Sometimes, it's just better to pray and bite your lip than to make an unwelcome comment!

Cut Yourself Some Slack Grace

Well, I just got on this blog to add some posts. Then, I saw it! I saw that I misspelled the title of the current post, which means people had already read it! I was frustrated with myself, but realized I needed Cut Yourself Some Slack Grace. 

It doesn't really do any good to beat yourself up over things. Once Christ made me aware of what I was doing, I got on the post and changed the title, of course, putting in the correct spelling this time. I figured it was important to share my shortcomings with you. We all need to cut ourselves some slack, sometimes and Christ is the one who can redirect us when we need it.

Newton's Laws of Motion Grace

Since I'm in the healing process from a foot injury, I've had to ride in the backseat of our car for rides of an hour or more. When the car starts or stops abruptly, Newton's Laws of Motion kicks in. That's every action has an equal and opposite reaction!

With that said, it means that when the car stops quickly, my cast is thrust in the opposite direction and then forward. If there is a speedy take off, the cast flips forward and then back. It's kind of like when you hold and empty swing up in the air and let it swing back and forth until it slows down and comes to a stop.

I realized that these starts and stops might not seem so dramatic to the person driving the car, but seem very dramatic when my leg in the cast is flopping back and forth during stopping and starting. When I've mentioned this to the driver, it just sounds like I'm being critical. If it sounds like that to the driver, I'm sure not being a very good example of being gracious in the way that Christ would want. I am praying for Newton's Laws of Motion Grace, so that in the future, I am much more tolerant and gracious!

Messy Bed Grace

Since I've been recuperating from a broken heel, I'm not able to make the bed. That, along with every other household task has fallen onto the shoulders of my husband, who has been a trouper! 

I don't know, but at first, I used to cringe when I would go into the bedroom and see the covers all disheveled. I wanted them to be neat an orderly as they had been prior to the injury. Not only was this an unreasonable thing to want, because it would mean more work for my husband, but when I'm being critical I'm not being gracious.

When these things were drawn to my attention, I had to turn the messy bed and other neatness issues over. Being given Messy Bed Grace made a major difference in my life. It kept me from getting caught up in the trivial things and to be more grateful for all that is done to make my life much more comfortable and to keep things running while Christ has my body mending.

Nicked Paint Grace

I have been in a transport chair (portable wheelchair), since I broke my heel. In using this, I have had others push me up to the door trim, floor boards, etc. nicking the paint. It's somewhat frustrating, because when I'm stronger, I will need to repaint all the nicks in the trim. 

Now, an important part in this post, at least for me, is that I'm saying that when the trim gets nicked, I've said a brief prayer asking for Nicked Paint Grace, so I'm not frustrated with the person who did it. I didn't say anything about when I've scooted myself and have nicked the paint. It's amazing to me that I've been oblivious when I've been at fault, but very keenly aware of when someone else has been!

I think it's especially significant, because it applies to so many aspects of our lives and our relationships with others. Christ uses these situations to show me that I need to be a much more tolerant Christian!

Inadequate Information Grace

There was a situation where I was dependent on the information from a medical professional, recently. The person was very nice and took a long time with me, but sent me home with inadequate information.

In trying to move forward, I tried to watch videos that showed me what I needed to know. Unfortunately, videos aren't necessarily able to show every aspect of what you need to know on a particular topic. I tried moving forward from with the information I had gotten from these videos, but ended up getting injured, which slowed down my progress.

I secretly blamed the medical professional for not giving me the adequate information to start with. I don't think I should have had to figure it out myself or watch lots of videos trying to glean what I needed to know. 

Then, it dawn on me, Christ's Grace is given to us when we've done wrong, but He loves us and forgives us, regardless of what we've done. I realized that I needed to have Inadequate Information Grace toward that medical professional. First off, people that are knowledgeable on a topic, sometimes assume that others know what they are talking about. Obviously, I didn't, but that's not the point. The point is that Christ wants me to be gracious to others regardless of what they did, whether they should have done something else, or otherwise. As soon, as He reminded me of this, I felt less anger and resentment toward the medical professional. 

Dishes Grace

My husband and I have totally different ways of doing the dishes. I like to use the dishwasher to keep little ones who visit frequently from sharing illnesses, which used to happen periodically.

My husband, on the other hand, likes to wash the dishes by hand. Every time one of the younger ones gets sick or a bout of the flu is going around, this topic surfaces.

When I broke my heel and I couldn't stand on it for 90 days, I realized I needed to pray for Dishes Grace. I needed to give up trying to be in control with the superior method. Christ led me to know that I just needed to be appreciative for all the things he was doing in my sted.

Pillow Grace

I broke my heel and needed to prop my leg up on pillows. Shortly thereafter, I went with my husband to stay in a hotel to see my dad in the Veteran's Home. I was in tears, because I was up until 3 a.m. trying to arrange the pillows, so I could put my leg in the cast on top of them. After a while, the weight of the cast weighed down on the pillows and put pressure on my heel. After 3 a.m., I got a little sleep out of pure exhaustion!

I found I had the same problem with the pillows some of the times while I was at home. During this time, I prayed for Pillow Grace, because it was extremely frustrating! I didn't want to frustrate my husband, because he couldn't do much, because there was a gradual weighing down of the pillows. Fortunately, Christ got me through all of that, which doesn't happen near as often.

My sweet husband, trying to help with this problem, got me a wedge and some new pillows to use. His thoughtfulness made such a difference to me. I'm so glad that Christ gave me His grace, so I was griping at my husband each day with these issues. I am truly blessed to have such a thoughtful husband!

Car Repair Grace

My husband's older car needed some major transmission repairs. I didn't mind, because I didn't have anything major to do, so he could use my car.

The week went by and then I needed to go see my dad in the Veteran's Home. We like to take my husband's car there and I started to get frustrated that the repairs had taken so long.  Somewhere along the line, I prayed a brief prayer for Car Repair Grace. Fortunately so, because it took a whole extra week before his car was repaired, because I could have been really frustrated by then, because we had family on standby each day to take my husband to go get his car.

Sometimes, it takes longer to find replacement parts for older cars. He has his car back and all is good. I'm just glad Christ gave me His grace, so my frustration didn't add to his stress in waiting for the car.

Lab Test Grace

Yesterday, I had to go for a lab test. At the last minute, my doctor's office changed the appointment until next week instead of a month from now. She has to have the results from the lab tests prior to the appointment.

This was the only day I could get the lab test done and not have it interfere with other things already planned for next week. First, I tried to call the lab ahead to schedule an appointment, but it's an automated scheduler. The recording said that they take walk-ins, so I decided to go that route.

I signed in, but they didn't have the lab orders when my doctor's assistant said she would fax them in the day before when she called to change the appointment. I tried calling the doctor's office, but no one answered. I was near to tears and realized that I needed to say a brief prayer for Lab Test Grace. Even the lab technician tried calling the doctor's office. 

I decided to wait and continue to call the doctor's office in case they had late lunches and just were out of the office when I called. When I got someone at the doctor's office after about ten calls, she said that her records showed that the Lab Test Request had been faxed in the day prior to that. I asked her if it could be re-Faxed. She said that the only person who that had just left for lunch minutes ago.

After about 30 minutes, I started calling the office to give the receptionist a message. The Lab Technician realized that the doctor's assistant must have tried to send the Lab Orders in by email, but they only accept them by FAX. Unfortunately, no one answered that call or the next ten to fifteen times I tried to call there. I kept praying for Lab Test Grace, because I hadn't eaten and was getting low blood sugar and was near to tears. My husband realized this and got a sandwich nearby, but I didn't eat it. I wasn't sure if I had to fast for my test or not.

Anyway, the Lab Technician eventually got through after 1 1/2 to 2 hours and they Faxed the Lab Test Request in. The test took five minutes and then we were good to go. 

I was so relieved and glad for Christ's grace, so that I didn't loose my cool with people earlier, but there were a few times I came very close and needed to pray periodically.  


Computer Screen Grace

Recently, a little one was using our computer. All of a sudden I hear, "The computer screen is upside down!!!!" My husband went back there to fix it, but was unable to. Around that time, I prayed for Computer Screen Grace. Shortly thereafter, the little one came where I was. He said he was sorry that the computer screen was upside down.

I was pleased that he said he was sorry, but implied the computer did this just on its own. Fortunately, I had already said a brief prayer, because Christ had all the words come out just right instead of sounding frustrated. I explained that if he had pushed some of the buttons, he should say that he's sorry that he pushed the buttons and we would forgive him. He did admit to pushing the buttons and I told him that we accept his apology. Unfortunately, I missed an opportunity to further explain that we forgive him, just like Christ forgives all of us for all we do wrong. (I need to be prayerful about this in case there is an opportunity in the near future to readdress this.)

Fortunately, a neighbor who is much more technologically savvy came over and fixed our computer screen and it's works well.

Hall Light Grace

I was staying up late one night and my spouse was going to bed. He asked about turning off the hall light. I told him that I preferred for him to leave it on, because there isn't always sufficient light to go down the hall at night without it.

I was a little frustrated when he went to bed and turned off the hall light after my request. Then, I said a brief prayer asking for Hall Light Grace. Shortly there after, Christ reminded me that he wears hearing aids only on occasion and probably wasn't wearing them right before bed. He wasn't being insensitive to my request, but really didn't hear my response. I'm so glad that Christ gave me His grace in this situation!

Busy Bathroom Grace

I was recently in a doctor's office and needed to use the bathroom before I left. As I waited, the toilet flushed. Then, it flushed a minute later, another minute later and so on for at least 15 minutes. Of course, I realize it might have been less time than that. When you have to go to the bathroom, anythings that interfere with that seem to take much longer.

I should have prayed for Busy Bathroom Grace. Instead, I got somewhat frustrated, but tried to be gracious. After the person left the restroom, I saw an older gentleman on crutches. I felt ashamed that I had been so impatient, because he must have been having a terrible time in there! I should have been gracious on the inside of me and not just in the obvious part to others. I should have prayed a brief prayer, but didn't, I'm ashamed to say. 

Not Enough Time Grace

Well, my husband and I agreed to meet up to head to the bank to rectify a banking issue. I had an hour and a forty-five minutes to get back to pick a kiddo up, which seemed like more than enough time. 

You got it. It really wasn't! We waited for one and a half hours. I figured that in ten minutes, I could tell the banker what I needed, sign the paperwork and let my husband finish the transaction, while I went to pick up the kiddo.

Well, it took the whole ten minutes reviewing everything and I had no cush time. I told her that I had to be across town to get a kiddo and couldn't do it now and had to leave.

I know she must have felt terrible. I sure did! I said a brief prayer for Not Enough Time Grace while I tried to get across town without exceeding any of the speed limits. Fortunately, I got him within minutes of being dismissed. 

I called my husband and asked him to meet me at the bank in a half hour, so we could try to rectify the banking issue together. I got there before he did, and I apologized to her profusely. I tried to explain to the banker that I wasn't upset with her, I was just upset with not having enough time. Not enough time to correct the problem. Not enough time to pick up the kiddo. Not enough time to properly explain why I had to leave the bank quickly, although I tried, but it was using up time! 

Fortunately, the banker was very gracious and understood about not wanting to leave a child stranded after dismissal. We were able to rectify the banking issue and that was good, but what was even better was rectifying the issue with the banker. I had felt badly about that and not having adequate time to explain calmly. 

Overheard Comment Grace

We were in a public building recently when the person sitting next to me commented loudly about the lady on the bench was smoking one of those vape pipes inside the building. The thing is, the person commenting was only about ten feet away from the person smoking the pipe and could probably hear the comment.

I was always taught that you don't talk about people, especially when they might hear it and get their feelings hurt. I mentioned that she might be able to hear, but the commenter really didn't care. This was frustrating, because I was offending the person making the comment by not indignantly joining in and possibly overhearing. I didn't want to be rude to either, so I said a brief prayer asking for Overheard Comment Grace

The person with the vape pipe put it away, probably because she overheard, but didn't remark about it. The person making the comment stopped, because there was no issue to address, at that point. I was just pleased that Christ took care of the situation and my frustration, because I wasn't sure how to handle either! Fortunately, He always does!

Banking Error Grace

My wonderful husband was doing the errands, because I quite often have many things on my plate. He was supposed to delete a monthly deposit into an account that we rarely use. Unfortunately, he closed the account instead.

When I first heard that, I was fit to be tied. I couldn't figure out any reason why he would close that account. Then, I asked a short prayer for Banking Error Grace, not their error, ours! I immediately felt calmer and tried to discuss this with my husband, which went much better after praying than had before.

I forget that my husband is hard of hearing and often doesn't hear things correctly. Also, I assume he has his hearing aides on, which isn't always the case. I told him that if this is the biggest thing we ever have to worry about, we are truly blessed people!

Belittling Grace

I was in the same area as someone who was making belittling comments to another person about a mutual friend of theirs. I wanted to say something like, Isn't so and so one of your friends?" I realized that it would be counterproductive to get involved in drawing attention to how wrong this behavior, because in the process I would be belittling the person who made the comment to put them in their place.

Well, after prayerful consideration, realizing that person wouldn't change their behavior even if I drew attention to it, I said a brief prayer. I prayed for Belittling Grace, because I didn't want all that frustration toward that person in my heart. Once I said the brief prayer, Christ knew I wanted to be an example of His grace in my life. He gave me a calm feeling, when I had been upset a few minutes prior to that, which wouldn't have been the case if I had continued to stand there fuming over the belittling comments.

Right Now Grace

I was in the middle of addressing cards when I was asked to do something right now. I said that I would help with it as soon as I finished addressing that card, but I know the other person wasn't all too pleased with that. I had a stack of cards to address, but put them down to assist this person when I realized how angry I was that I was expected to drop everything in the middle of my project to do this thing immediately!

Knowing that anger isn't what Christ wants in my heart, I prayed for Right Now Grace. When I said this brief prayer for grace, so that I was no longer angry with this person, nor harbored resentments toward them. I am so blessed with how gracious Christ truly is. He helped me relax and do that person's thing immediately and deliver it to them. I no longer had resentments to this person and was with Christ's assistance able to let it go.

Greedy Grace

My husband and I were at a luncheon graciously put on by a Christian Church that are primarily of another culture. After the luncheon, they had gift bags for the attendees. A man that was sitting at our table was first to go over and get a bag. He didn't wait until the hosts brought them to the table as the rest of the people did. It seems he had ulterior motives. This man took two bags and brought them back to the table.

I wanted to make some kind of remark to draw attention to his greediness like, "Are you getting one for someone who couldn't attend the luncheon? or Do you think there will be enough for everyone when you take two?" Instead I said a brief prayer for Greedy Grace. I was basically asking God for grace, so that I didn't say something to the man who was being greedy. After this this brief prayer, I calmed down and my anger toward that man subsided. 

Revenge Grace

I recently made a mistake that affected other people. When I realized what I had done, I said to the person that I was talking to that I had to go, because I wanted to contact the company and try to fix my error. In the process, the original person I had talked to wouldn't answer my call even though they knew I would be calling back shortly to share what I had found. 

The more I thought of it, the angrier I got. I realized their action was of revenge for me hanging up so abruptly, so they decided to not answer my call. (Of course, I realize when I'm not angry that there might be 40,000 other reasons that they didn't answer my call, but it didn't seem like that at the time!) 

Anyway, I first was thinking that I was going to share my feelings on the matter in person, but Christ who wants better of me, reminded me with the thought to say a brief prayer. I asked for Revenge Grace, to not be pulled into someone else's need to be spiteful and act in kind. Christ wants me to be an example of how He works in my life. That's why He gives me His grace, so that I can be more gracious to others as He has been to me!

P.S. I wanted to add that when I talked to this person later, we were both much more gracious. I thought it was significant, because possibly when I'm praying for Christ's Grace, it potentially benefits the other person, as well as, it benefits me!

Example of a Brief Prayer

But we believe that through the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ we shall be saved, even as they. Acts 15:11

I was with someone who was scooping up some free popcorn. They didn't ask me if I wanted any. The person told me that I should get a bag of popcorn and then took it from my hands. They wanted me to get the popcorn for them to eat later.

It's such a silly thing, but it really did irritate me. Didn't that person think about whether I wanted some or not? Couldn't they have asked me if I wanted some before they took it from my hands? I found myself getting frustrated at that person. Then, it popped into my mind that that's not what Christ wants of me. He wants me to be gracious to those who irritate me, but I was too frustrated to be gracious at that moment.

What I prayed was, "Popcorn Grace," and immediately Christ calmed me down, so that I didn't respond to the person in a less than positive manner. Although the "Popcorn Grace" prayer was very brief, I was asking Christ to please give me grace with this popcorn situation, so I would respond in a gracious manner, and He did! It amazed me that He knew and understood my brief prayer and granted me that grace, so I could be more gracious as an example of how He works in my life! I have continued to use these brief prayers which are changing my life and my response to others. If Christ can do this for me, He can most certainly do it for you, as well. Try it...what can it hurt?