Every Last Breath

Every Last Breath by Deena McDaniel Positively Beautiful Blog 1/2/26 Resolutions become revolting in mid-January! Failure is common. Intensions are with heartfelt solutions. And then comes complacency. Give up and give in to past indulgences or take a 360 spin. Change is a process and not very often a “poof” of an instantaneous shift. “But do not overlook this one fact, beloved, that with the Lord one day is as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day.”- 2 Peter 3:8 Recycle that resolution. What exactly is a resolution, if not a resolve to change? Change begins with your mind. Where have you put your thoughts throughout the day? Naturally, we petition the Lord with our wants and often our needs. Wants trigger the heart motive. Why? Why do we want _____? Several months ago, I made prayer cards about the ones I love. Spending mornings going through the list of wants and needs for each, I’ve also included myself. Scripture accompaniment is vital. Pray back the promises to God. He tells us endless truths through his Word. February 14 marks 2 years since leaving Florida. We left all our friends and a couple of grown-up kids behind. I had no idea how God would work with me, and I did know he had plans. My job was to pray, wait, and work. “Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him.”- James 1:12 We’ve had our share of challenges, one of which for me has been loneliness. I’m an outgoing gal; however, friendship takes time and friendship encounters made usually are organic. Therefore, I watch for divine appointments. Coffee outings took priority the first year or so, then life got in the way. And quite frankly, discouragement kicked in. To have a friend, you must be a friend, I’d always tell my kids. One thing I understand… "A cord of three strands is not easily broken."-Ecclesiastes 4:12 Kindred spirits with the Lord as the center create the power of relationship. I’ve had coffee with a few who “trauma dumped,” and my heart broke for them. And you know those who tell you “yes, sometime soon,” and the soon never gets booked, or schedules, events, and timing chimes poorly. Bravery and courage open your heart to possibilities! My prayer card and resolution last year included making friends! I know it might seem silly to pray for friends. I did. I waited. I prayed and made a few acquaintances. True friends take time. Then prayer, after prayer, slowly the light is revealed. I made a bucket load of brand-new buddies! This year at Silver Dollar City our team clicked. Wild, boisterous and over the top crazy fun our crew slowly knit together. Has the Lord finally answered friend prayers? Time will tell. I do know the love of friends is an action. “Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.”- Proverbs 27:17 I’ve found certain people enter your life at a certain time for a certain reason and season of life. While others, over time, become like family. No one has millions of “friends.” No matter how many “friends” on social media you seem to acquire or likes you obtain, a friend sticks closer than a brother. If you have 2 true friends who keep your personal stuff quiet, you know you’re blessed beyond measure. I often need to “verbal process” my heart. And when you’re called out, you’ll listen to this friend. Truth may hurt. Healing happens during heartache. Verses 13–16 of James 3 say, “Who among you is wise and understanding? Let him show by his good behavior his deeds in the gentleness of wisdom. But if you have bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your heart, do not be arrogant and so lie against the truth. This wisdom is not that which comes down from above, but is earthly, natural, demonic. For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there is disorder and every evil thing.” Hmm, a tall order. We’re all looking for inclusion. God has wired us for community, worship, and love. Never give up on God. What are your prayers including? God knows your heart anyway. Be honest and transparent with resolutions. Repentance is always a great first step, though painfully honest confession is key. (see James 5:16) Failure is never final. Be gracious and begin again. Making friends and creating community takes courage, effort, and possible pain. It’s worth it. My long-distance “besties” will forever have imprints on my heart, while the answered prayer relationships grow. I’ve resolved to keep praying, seeking, and asking. “Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will hear you. You will seek me and find me, when you seek me with all your heart.”- Jeremiah 29:12-13 Perspective is renewed as your calling continues. He redeems hurt while refining your heart. An old goat farmer’s saying, “May your fences hold, your hay stay dry, your heart stay soft, and your faith stay stronger than your footing.” Wise words indeed; however, my goat friends are truly tripping hazards! (Unlike my G.O.A.T. friends.)