The Smoke Has Cleared

Short and sweet today. Sitting here on our porch in Montana this morning looking out where the mountains touch the sky while talking with our Father. The wildfire smoke has finally cleared. Today’s picture is one I took earlier this week after the smoke cleared just down the road.

I just finished final edits on my new book, “Raising greatness.” It will be ready for Christmas. It is heading to the printer today for design work. It has been a 22 year process. 

While writing, I re-visited the many ups and downs of my life. Life is a sacred journey. Perfection doesn’t happen. I don’t know about you but I have often felt inadequate as a father, husband, friend, son, leader, mentor, and coach. 

This morning the Lord spoke to my heart and said, “You aren’t defined by your past… you are defined by me.” He was talking about both failures and successes. Such a sweet thought for me to take through this day. How about every day…

The overwhelming miracles out-weigh the junk. But there is so much I wish I could have done over. I’m sure you can identify. But the Lord is cleaning up the junk in my mind and says, "Let it go, I have." What an amazing God we serve and walk with. Grace.

So today as I finish this 22 year project, I'll sit in “green pastures by still waters,” and breathe deep and free. There are more adventures ahead, more book projects for sure, more miracles to witness, more bends in the rivers to discover, and I'm looking forward to this new season.

Be encouraged today, “your past doesn’t define you, God does.” Breathe that in. Talk soon…