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Carre Phillips

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This morning I had the honor of giving a testimony to the work Jesus has been doing in my life over the past season—patiently teaching me the pace of Jesus and what intimacy with God looks like.

I got to share bits of my story about our infertility journey and my baptism that I haven’t shared publicly before. It’s always a bit nerve wracking to get on a stage and share my own journey, but man there is nothing better than talking about the goodness and faithfulness of God.

Thankful for these dear friends (and others) who pray over me, with me, and show up to champion the good news alongside me!!

Ministry is always better in community. 🤍

This morning I had the honor of giving a testimony to the work Jesus has been doing in my life over the past season—patiently teaching me the pace of Jesus and what intimacy with God looks like.

I got to share bits of my story about our infertility journey and my baptism that I haven’t shared publicly before. It’s always a bit nerve wracking to get on a stage and share my own journey, but man there is nothing better than talking about the goodness and faithfulness of God.

Thankful for these dear friends (and others) who pray over me, with me, and show up to champion the good news alongside me!!

Ministry is always better in community. 🤍

There are soooo many things I’d love to tell you about what I’m learning about Jesus this season as I savor studying his Word… but this might be the most important:

Slowing down to be WITH Jesus and KNOW him will always be more important than anything I can produce from my own efforts. He doesn’t ask for expedited delivery.

Maybe you need this reminder too. Slowing down and making room for more of Jesus will never return void.

#holyspirit #jesus #secretplace

There are soooo many things I’d love to tell you about what I’m learning about Jesus this season as I savor studying his Word… but this might be the most important:

Slowing down to be WITH Jesus and KNOW him will always be more important than anything I can produce from my own efforts. He doesn’t ask for expedited delivery.

Maybe you need this reminder too. Slowing down and making room for more of Jesus will never return void.

#holyspirit #jesus #secretplace

Snippets of gratitude over my 35th year as I enter into the next one 💜
1- celebrations
2- God still speaks
3- love of my life
4- family I prayed for
5- studies I love
6- the next gen of cousin love
7- extended fam
8- slowing down
9- community
10- writer friends
11- a church that’s like family
12- friends that know me
13- the gift of teaching
14- being outside
15- baby cuddles
16- women who love Gods Word
17- small group we adore
18- becoming a girl mom
19- the one who taught me to know Jesus
20- legacy

Snippets of gratitude over my 35th year as I enter into the next one 💜
1- celebrations
2- God still speaks
3- love of my life
4- family I prayed for
5- studies I love
6- the next gen of cousin love
7- extended fam
8- slowing down
9- community
10- writer friends
11- a church that’s like family
12- friends that know me
13- the gift of teaching
14- being outside
15- baby cuddles
16- women who love Gods Word
17- small group we adore
18- becoming a girl mom
19- the one who taught me to know Jesus
20- legacy

10 years ago today, we went on our first date 🥰 (we recreated the date and took this photo a year later).

10 years of loving you @tankthebuilder 🩵 feels like we’ve been together forever and are just getting started! Here’s to the next 10 🥂

10 years ago today, we went on our first date 🥰 (we recreated the date and took this photo a year later).

10 years of loving you @tankthebuilder 🩵 feels like we’ve been together forever and are just getting started! Here’s to the next 10 🥂

Confession: we missed church again this Sunday.

It’s not the way I like to start the week, but we’ve got a kid with a fever so church wasn’t an option for us this morning. At first, I was sad. I love getting to be with my friends and community worshipping on Sunday mornings each week. But then I had an idea…

What if I invited the boys into a spiritual practice that gives me joy? One that they don’t normally see or get to participate in.

So I broke out my ganache paints, grabbed some watercolor paints and paper, and we painted a painting inspired by a story/verse from Scripture.

Drew painted Goliath. I painted Colossians 2:6-7. And Pete painted himself. 🤣

We listened to worship music and sang as we painted.

There will likely be hundreds of Sundays I won’t remember from their childhood, but I don’t think I’ll forget this one.

#Discipleship #worship #jesus #holyspirit

Confession: we missed church again this Sunday.

It’s not the way I like to start the week, but we’ve got a kid with a fever so church wasn’t an option for us this morning. At first, I was sad. I love getting to be with my friends and community worshipping on Sunday mornings each week. But then I had an idea…

What if I invited the boys into a spiritual practice that gives me joy? One that they don’t normally see or get to participate in.

So I broke out my ganache paints, grabbed some watercolor paints and paper, and we painted a painting inspired by a story/verse from Scripture.

Drew painted Goliath. I painted Colossians 2:6-7. And Pete painted himself. 🤣

We listened to worship music and sang as we painted.

There will likely be hundreds of Sundays I won’t remember from their childhood, but I don’t think I’ll forget this one.

#Discipleship #worship #jesus #holyspirit

What seminary is actually like >>> finding 30 quiet minutes to study/read/write in the chaos.

It feels a lot like our relationship with Jesus. He doesn’t want us to clean up before we come to him. He doesn’t need us to put aside exactly 30 minutes of perfect quiet every morning. He simply wants us to draw near—in the chaos, in the mundane, in the normal. He wants to speak to us—through his Word, through nature, through words of encouragement, through prayer.

Don’t wait to clean up your life to be near with Jesus. He’s waiting to meet with you in the mess. 💛

#holyspirit #goodnews

What seminary is actually like >>> finding 30 quiet minutes to study/read/write in the chaos.

It feels a lot like our relationship with Jesus. He doesn’t want us to clean up before we come to him. He doesn’t need us to put aside exactly 30 minutes of perfect quiet every morning. He simply wants us to draw near—in the chaos, in the mundane, in the normal. He wants to speak to us—through his Word, through nature, through words of encouragement, through prayer.

Don’t wait to clean up your life to be near with Jesus. He’s waiting to meet with you in the mess. 💛

#holyspirit #goodnews

A bit quiet on socials this July as I hunker down in my favorite recliner to write a new Bible study!

Right outside my window, hydrangeas explode in full bloom and the garden is brimming with new growth. Next to my chair, little people are making forts and pretending to set sail on their next adventure.

The days are long and hot, but full of life. ☀️ for now, we play, rest, and write on repeat.

#biblestudy #summerstudy

A bit quiet on socials this July as I hunker down in my favorite recliner to write a new Bible study!

Right outside my window, hydrangeas explode in full bloom and the garden is brimming with new growth. Next to my chair, little people are making forts and pretending to set sail on their next adventure.

The days are long and hot, but full of life. ☀️ for now, we play, rest, and write on repeat.

#biblestudy #summerstudy

“The great irony of one nation, under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all is that, in reality, we find ourselves divisible.”

Some inspired words from my study in Philippians this past month. Available on my Substack, link in bio.

#america #unity #americanchurch #holyspirit #kingdomcome

“The great irony of one nation, under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all is that, in reality, we find ourselves divisible.”

Some inspired words from my study in Philippians this past month. Available on my Substack, link in bio.

#america #unity #americanchurch #holyspirit #kingdomcome

See what it’s like to travel with me to divinity school for my summer class week intensive at Wheaton College.

Soaking up everything I can learn about Paul’s prison epistles this week!!

#kingdomcome #divinityschool #traveling #travelwithme

See what it’s like to travel with me to divinity school for my summer class week intensive at Wheaton College.

Soaking up everything I can learn about Paul’s prison epistles this week!!

#kingdomcome #divinityschool #traveling #travelwithme

I finally joined my first podcast a few weeks back!🎙️ In this episode, @jonirosebrock @heylindsaymay @chanmisartjourney and I talked about being made in God’s image—how it’s not talked about much in church, but it has massive implications on our every day realities.

You can find the episode on all streaming platforms “Saved You A Seat Podcast” @savedyouaseatcreative

“Why Your Creative Work Still Matters to God—Even if it Feels Small”

Give it a listen and send me your thoughts!

#kingdomcome #holyspirit #imagodei

I finally joined my first podcast a few weeks back!🎙️ In this episode, @jonirosebrock @heylindsaymay @chanmisartjourney and I talked about being made in God’s image—how it’s not talked about much in church, but it has massive implications on our every day realities.

You can find the episode on all streaming platforms “Saved You A Seat Podcast” @savedyouaseatcreative

“Why Your Creative Work Still Matters to God—Even if it Feels Small”

Give it a listen and send me your thoughts!

#kingdomcome #holyspirit #imagodei

To all my friends who feel like reading your Bible and praying is just another thing you have to do…

A deeper, more intimate spiritual walk with God is available for you too. 🤍

Ask God for a renewed desire. Create one or two daily disciplines: a prayer in the shower or car during your commute. Scripture before scrolling. A verse on your bathroom mirror.

God grants desire, but he also honors obedience. When it feels so dry you want to quit, come closer to him. Call on your community to pray with you.

His words are the bread of life. Isaiah 55:6 “Seek the LORD while he may be found; call upon him while he is near;”

He wants to breathe fresh wind into your soul. 🕊️

#holyspirit #kingdomcome #bible #scripture

To all my friends who feel like reading your Bible and praying is just another thing you have to do…

A deeper, more intimate spiritual walk with God is available for you too. 🤍

Ask God for a renewed desire. Create one or two daily disciplines: a prayer in the shower or car during your commute. Scripture before scrolling. A verse on your bathroom mirror.

God grants desire, but he also honors obedience. When it feels so dry you want to quit, come closer to him. Call on your community to pray with you.

His words are the bread of life. Isaiah 55:6 “Seek the LORD while he may be found; call upon him while he is near;”

He wants to breathe fresh wind into your soul. 🕊️

#holyspirit #kingdomcome #bible #scripture

📣 The Spirit didn’t just come—he stayed.

Pentecost wasn’t merely a one-time moment. It was the beginning of a new season for believers.

The wind came.
The fire rested.
The Church was born.

But here’s the part we forget: The same Spirit that filled that upper room… now fills you.

He didn’t come to visit. He came to dwell.

If you’ve given your life to Jesus, you don’t have to wonder if you’re alone.

The presence of God is with you. Right now. Right here.

So today, don’t forget we get to live like the Spirit is still with us. Because He is. 🔥

#holyspirit #kingdomcome #pentecost

📣 The Spirit didn’t just come—he stayed.

Pentecost wasn’t merely a one-time moment. It was the beginning of a new season for believers.

The wind came.
The fire rested.
The Church was born.

But here’s the part we forget: The same Spirit that filled that upper room… now fills you.

He didn’t come to visit. He came to dwell.

If you’ve given your life to Jesus, you don’t have to wonder if you’re alone.

The presence of God is with you. Right now. Right here.

So today, don’t forget we get to live like the Spirit is still with us. Because He is. 🔥

#holyspirit #kingdomcome #pentecost

What would it look like for you to slow down a bit this summer?

Take a real Sunday Sabbath. Put down your phone. Unplug before bedtime. Worship music with windows down in the mornings. Picnics outside with neighbors. Less streaming, more star gazing. Opening the Word and memorizing a new verse.

Unhurried. Present. Slower Pace.

We slow down to see the goodness of God in the ordinary. We unplug to be filled up with good things. We become unhurried so we can recognize Gods present work in our lives.

What can you do to be more intentionally present this summer? I’d love to know! 👇🏻

#holyspirit #spiritualformation #slowsummer #kingdomcome

What would it look like for you to slow down a bit this summer?

Take a real Sunday Sabbath. Put down your phone. Unplug before bedtime. Worship music with windows down in the mornings. Picnics outside with neighbors. Less streaming, more star gazing. Opening the Word and memorizing a new verse.

Unhurried. Present. Slower Pace.

We slow down to see the goodness of God in the ordinary. We unplug to be filled up with good things. We become unhurried so we can recognize Gods present work in our lives.

What can you do to be more intentionally present this summer? I’d love to know! 👇🏻

#holyspirit #spiritualformation #slowsummer #kingdomcome

Where was God? It’s a question we all grapple with at some point in our lives. How could he let this happen? Or where was he and why didn’t he keep this from happening?

Yet, even when the circumstances are anything but what we’d wish for, we can find comfort in God’s omnipresence because it means he never leaves us… ever.

We can find comfort in his presence no matter our circumstances.

In our loneliness, he’s there.
When we’re grieving, he’s there.
When we’re suffering, he’s there.
In our greatest celebrations, he’s there.
At our lowest point, he’s there.

His presence is a miraculous gift, promised to us for all eternity.

#holyspirit #kingdomcome

Where was God? It’s a question we all grapple with at some point in our lives. How could he let this happen? Or where was he and why didn’t he keep this from happening?

Yet, even when the circumstances are anything but what we’d wish for, we can find comfort in God’s omnipresence because it means he never leaves us… ever.

We can find comfort in his presence no matter our circumstances.

In our loneliness, he’s there.
When we’re grieving, he’s there.
When we’re suffering, he’s there.
In our greatest celebrations, he’s there.
At our lowest point, he’s there.

His presence is a miraculous gift, promised to us for all eternity.

#holyspirit #kingdomcome

If you’ve never been privy to @tylercstaton’s teachings, his words are a rich tapestry to behold—a tender melody breathing gospel life into weary souls.

I’m listening to Praying Like Monks, Living Like Fools: An Invitation to the Wonder and Mystery of Prayer this past week, being reminded in a fresh way the power and wonder and mystery of prayer. If you’re wanting some encouragement to deepen your prayer life, I would highly recommend this book.

It’s a phenomenal read and even better listen. 🎧 📖

#holyspirit #kingdomcome

If you’ve never been privy to @tylercstaton’s teachings, his words are a rich tapestry to behold—a tender melody breathing gospel life into weary souls.

I’m listening to Praying Like Monks, Living Like Fools: An Invitation to the Wonder and Mystery of Prayer this past week, being reminded in a fresh way the power and wonder and mystery of prayer. If you’re wanting some encouragement to deepen your prayer life, I would highly recommend this book.

It’s a phenomenal read and even better listen. 🎧 📖

#holyspirit #kingdomcome

That one time I went to a silent retreat that stressed me out turned out to be one of the best mistakes I’ve ever made.

#holyspirit #kingdomcome

That one time I went to a silent retreat that stressed me out turned out to be one of the best mistakes I’ve ever made.

#holyspirit #kingdomcome

Have you ever wondered how to (re)discover the presence of God?

In his farewell address to his disciples, Jesus promised them that he wasn’t going to leave them forever. He would send them an Advocate—the Holy Spirit—to be present in their midst so they could still be connected with him.

He promised them that they would SEE him.

This wild claim still exists for us today. We might not be able to visibly see his presence, but we can *see* evidence of him all around.

He’s in creation.
He’s in the smallest creature.
He’s in humanity.
He’s in you and me.

To see him, we have to seek him.

We have to slow down and notice the wonders of creation. Being at the lake always reminds me of this invitation:

Come and see. 🌄

“The heavens declare the glory of God, and the sky above proclaims his handiwork.” Psalm 19:1

#holyspirit #kingdomcome

Have you ever wondered how to (re)discover the presence of God?

In his farewell address to his disciples, Jesus promised them that he wasn’t going to leave them forever. He would send them an Advocate—the Holy Spirit—to be present in their midst so they could still be connected with him.

He promised them that they would SEE him.

This wild claim still exists for us today. We might not be able to visibly see his presence, but we can *see* evidence of him all around.

He’s in creation.
He’s in the smallest creature.
He’s in humanity.
He’s in you and me.

To see him, we have to seek him.

We have to slow down and notice the wonders of creation. Being at the lake always reminds me of this invitation:

Come and see. 🌄

“The heavens declare the glory of God, and the sky above proclaims his handiwork.” Psalm 19:1

#holyspirit #kingdomcome

Here’s your invitation to put down the empty noise and pick up his living Word. ✨

#holyspirit #kingdomcome

Here’s your invitation to put down the empty noise and pick up his living Word. ✨

#holyspirit #kingdomcome

Isaiah 40 is a passage I’ve come back to countless times. When we get weary—whether it’s from the weather, circumstances, or unrelenting bad news—whatever it is, God promises to give us his strength.

He strengthens those who wait and look to him.

Send this to a friend who needs to hear he’s still with them, even on the cloudy days. ☁️

#holyspirit #kingdomcome

Isaiah 40 is a passage I’ve come back to countless times. When we get weary—whether it’s from the weather, circumstances, or unrelenting bad news—whatever it is, God promises to give us his strength.

He strengthens those who wait and look to him.

Send this to a friend who needs to hear he’s still with them, even on the cloudy days. ☁️

#holyspirit #kingdomcome

When was the last time you truly unplugged?

We escaped to the lake for the weekend with our @midtownfellowship12s small group. Replaced our scrolling with fellowship. Dinner on the back porch, early morning coffee out in nature, breaking bread, prayer on the screened in porch, kids running around in nature, first fish, late night games.

What a foretaste of heaven. Love you guys @janellpoole @mcclearymoss @sally.schroeder @zenaleonard @iamnickleonard @lindseyh_hall @shebbyhall @acyanda @aint.no.hobby @walkerowsley

Thankful for a church community that can feel like real family! 🧡

#holyspirit #kingdomcome

When was the last time you truly unplugged?

We escaped to the lake for the weekend with our @midtownfellowship12s small group. Replaced our scrolling with fellowship. Dinner on the back porch, early morning coffee out in nature, breaking bread, prayer on the screened in porch, kids running around in nature, first fish, late night games.

What a foretaste of heaven. Love you guys @janellpoole @mcclearymoss @sally.schroeder @zenaleonard @iamnickleonard @lindseyh_hall @shebbyhall @acyanda @aint.no.hobby @walkerowsley

Thankful for a church community that can feel like real family! 🧡

#holyspirit #kingdomcome

Ever feel like God is way out there—like he’s holy, but not exactly helpful when you’re just trying to get through today?

Here are some reminders from his Word for those who feel forgotten, far off, or just… facing the everyday grind.

Deuteronomy 31:6-8
Psalm 34:18
Psalm 46:11
Psalm 145:18
Isaiah 41:10
Isaiah 43:2
John 15:9
Hebrews 13:5
James 4:8

He is near to you because he is with you. 🤍

Save this reel for a day when you need this reminder. Share it with someone you love to remind them God is near!

#holyspirit #kingdomcome

Ever feel like God is way out there—like he’s holy, but not exactly helpful when you’re just trying to get through today?

Here are some reminders from his Word for those who feel forgotten, far off, or just… facing the everyday grind.

Deuteronomy 31:6-8
Psalm 34:18
Psalm 46:11
Psalm 145:18
Isaiah 41:10
Isaiah 43:2
John 15:9
Hebrews 13:5
James 4:8

He is near to you because he is with you. 🤍

Save this reel for a day when you need this reminder. Share it with someone you love to remind them God is near!

#holyspirit #kingdomcome

“She laughs at the time to come.”

In the final stretch to summer, I need desperately need this reminder.

She doesn’t stress. She doesn’t map out an agenda to have a sense of control. She doesn’t give in to self-talk and have a meltdown.

She laughs!

So consider this your invitation to lay down all your expectations of how things *should* go and rejoice in the One who knows all things and holds it altogether FOR us.

You can laugh because he’s always got you.

#holyspirit #kingdomcome

“She laughs at the time to come.”

In the final stretch to summer, I need desperately need this reminder.

She doesn’t stress. She doesn’t map out an agenda to have a sense of control. She doesn’t give in to self-talk and have a meltdown.

She laughs!

So consider this your invitation to lay down all your expectations of how things *should* go and rejoice in the One who knows all things and holds it altogether FOR us.

You can laugh because he’s always got you.

#holyspirit #kingdomcome

It was never in my “plan” to go back into ministry. I don’t talk about it much online, but a series of deep church hurts nearly took me out of the church a decade ago. But God, in his most sovereign of plans, took me across the world to Phnom Penh, Cambodia—where I would come to fall in love with the people and see him at work in wonderful, powerful, & indescribable ways.

I’ve been on a journey with the Holy Spirit ever since that day in September 2017 when God met me on this very rooftop. It started with a simple prayer:

Lord, remind me you’re still here in the darkest of nights. 🙏🏻

You can pray this too. It’s not fancy and it doesn’t need to be long and drawn out. God just asks us to seek him and bring our hearts before him. And, he promises us he hears our prayers.

When we listen for his voice, sometimes we can only hear the swirling of our own anxious thoughts. Sometimes, we hear his voice. And occasionally, like on this night, he speaks something so powerful that it changes our whole life.

#holyspirit #kingdomcome

It was never in my “plan” to go back into ministry. I don’t talk about it much online, but a series of deep church hurts nearly took me out of the church a decade ago. But God, in his most sovereign of plans, took me across the world to Phnom Penh, Cambodia—where I would come to fall in love with the people and see him at work in wonderful, powerful, & indescribable ways.

I’ve been on a journey with the Holy Spirit ever since that day in September 2017 when God met me on this very rooftop. It started with a simple prayer:

Lord, remind me you’re still here in the darkest of nights. 🙏🏻

You can pray this too. It’s not fancy and it doesn’t need to be long and drawn out. God just asks us to seek him and bring our hearts before him. And, he promises us he hears our prayers.

When we listen for his voice, sometimes we can only hear the swirling of our own anxious thoughts. Sometimes, we hear his voice. And occasionally, like on this night, he speaks something so powerful that it changes our whole life.

#holyspirit #kingdomcome

Celebrated @tankthebuilder’s birthday this weekend with a few of our favorite family traditions:
🥞 BIRTHDAY BREAKFAST at the infamous @pancakepantrynashville
🎂 CANDLES on everything… which this year included pancakes & homemade blueberry cobbler
🎁 GIFTS that include something experiential which today meant a surprise shopping trip to @bassproshops
🎈 BALLOONS because birthdays are always better with balloons (and turns out @dollartree has the best inexpensive helium balloons!)

A few photo memories of this past year. It’s no secret who the favorite is in this family! 🏆 🩵 we all love him so much! @tankthebuilder

Celebrated @tankthebuilder’s birthday this weekend with a few of our favorite family traditions:
🥞 BIRTHDAY BREAKFAST at the infamous @pancakepantrynashville
🎂 CANDLES on everything… which this year included pancakes & homemade blueberry cobbler
🎁 GIFTS that include something experiential which today meant a surprise shopping trip to @bassproshops
🎈 BALLOONS because birthdays are always better with balloons (and turns out @dollartree has the best inexpensive helium balloons!)

A few photo memories of this past year. It’s no secret who the favorite is in this family! 🏆 🩵 we all love him so much! @tankthebuilder

Full story on Substack. See the link in my bio.

Share it with a friend with a reminder that you see her. 🤍

#holyspirit #kingdomcome

Full story on Substack. See the link in my bio.

Share it with a friend with a reminder that you see her. 🤍

#holyspirit #kingdomcome

Mother’s Day holds a lot of joy—and for many, a lot of pain. If you’re carrying grief, longing, or loneliness this week, you’re not invisible. You’re not forgotten.

Whether you’re navigating infertility, singleness, loss, or a complicated relationship with your mom—God sees your story. He meets us in the tension, not just the celebration.

In John 16:4, Jesus tells His disciples, “I have said these things to you, that when their hour comes, you may remember.”

This week, we remember.

We remember His nearness.
We remember His goodness.
We remember He hasn’t left us—not even in the ache.

I wrote a blog post for the ones who want to skip this holiday but are choosing to stay in the story anyway. 🤍 It goes live tomorrow.

Subscribe through the link in bio so it lands straight in your inbox.

You are so loved.

#MothersDay #holyspirit #kingdomcome

Mother’s Day holds a lot of joy—and for many, a lot of pain. If you’re carrying grief, longing, or loneliness this week, you’re not invisible. You’re not forgotten.

Whether you’re navigating infertility, singleness, loss, or a complicated relationship with your mom—God sees your story. He meets us in the tension, not just the celebration.

In John 16:4, Jesus tells His disciples, “I have said these things to you, that when their hour comes, you may remember.”

This week, we remember.

We remember His nearness.
We remember His goodness.
We remember He hasn’t left us—not even in the ache.

I wrote a blog post for the ones who want to skip this holiday but are choosing to stay in the story anyway. 🤍 It goes live tomorrow.

Subscribe through the link in bio so it lands straight in your inbox.

You are so loved.

#MothersDay #holyspirit #kingdomcome

When life feels unclear and your next steps are uncertain, Jesus doesn’t give you a blueprint for your life. You can’t open your Bible and hope a verse will magically direct your next steps…

He gives us something so much better. Jesus gives us the person of the Holy Spirit—who continues to do the work of Jesus on earth in us!

Through the Spirit, Jesus gives us more than a plan, he gives us his presence.

You haven’t missed him. He’s still with you, working to give you discernment and reveal God’s wisdom and truth.

Come to him. The Way is with you.

#john14 #holyspirit #kingdomcome

When life feels unclear and your next steps are uncertain, Jesus doesn’t give you a blueprint for your life. You can’t open your Bible and hope a verse will magically direct your next steps…

He gives us something so much better. Jesus gives us the person of the Holy Spirit—who continues to do the work of Jesus on earth in us!

Through the Spirit, Jesus gives us more than a plan, he gives us his presence.

You haven’t missed him. He’s still with you, working to give you discernment and reveal God’s wisdom and truth.

Come to him. The Way is with you.

#john14 #holyspirit #kingdomcome

What is the secret place?

We sing about it in worship songs, but what—or where is it?

The secret place comes from Psalm 91:1. The King James Version states: “He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.”

While more literal translations use “shelter of the Most High” (ESV), the imagery is similar. The description portrays a type of coming underneath God for shelter and refuge.

The secret place is a non-literal sanctuary where we get to commune with God. It’s any space where we pause and sit in his presence. It’s not really a secret, but God’s presence is holy and sacred. Stopping to behold God has a sacred—albeit secret—nature to it.

Have you ever thought about the phrase, “secret place”? What comes to mind when you consider it? I want to know your thoughts!! 👇🏻

#holyspirit #kingdomcome

What is the secret place?

We sing about it in worship songs, but what—or where is it?

The secret place comes from Psalm 91:1. The King James Version states: “He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.”

While more literal translations use “shelter of the Most High” (ESV), the imagery is similar. The description portrays a type of coming underneath God for shelter and refuge.

The secret place is a non-literal sanctuary where we get to commune with God. It’s any space where we pause and sit in his presence. It’s not really a secret, but God’s presence is holy and sacred. Stopping to behold God has a sacred—albeit secret—nature to it.

Have you ever thought about the phrase, “secret place”? What comes to mind when you consider it? I want to know your thoughts!! 👇🏻

#holyspirit #kingdomcome

Ever feel like you can’t *feel* God’s presence with you? Maybe you feel like you can’t see him… umm hello, God are you there?

We see God’s presence on earth in two forms: his omnipresence (he’s everywhere at all times) and his manifest presence (revealing his glory on earth). God is everywhere—at all times. Yet because he’s invisible, he can feel so far removed from our everyday realities.

When I’m feeling weary (like on a long Monday afternoon), I can always find comfort by going outside and looking up. Like a painting, the sky proclaims God’s glory.

Look up. See the invisible made visible in his beautiful creation. He’s present with you—no matter the circumstances—no matter where you are. He’s with you. ☀️

#holyspirit #kingdomcome

Ever feel like you can’t *feel* God’s presence with you? Maybe you feel like you can’t see him… umm hello, God are you there?

We see God’s presence on earth in two forms: his omnipresence (he’s everywhere at all times) and his manifest presence (revealing his glory on earth). God is everywhere—at all times. Yet because he’s invisible, he can feel so far removed from our everyday realities.

When I’m feeling weary (like on a long Monday afternoon), I can always find comfort by going outside and looking up. Like a painting, the sky proclaims God’s glory.

Look up. See the invisible made visible in his beautiful creation. He’s present with you—no matter the circumstances—no matter where you are. He’s with you. ☀️

#holyspirit #kingdomcome

There’s nothing like the first glimpse of growth to remind us that spring is breathing new life into the ground.

Winter giving birth to spring.

For thousands of years, God has been speaking to his people through gardening metaphors. 🌱 The Israelites were desperate for their winter season to end. God had been silent for so long. His presence seemed so far off.

When it seemed like he would be silent forever, God returned with a sudden shout. His words spoke comfort over his people. He had never left, he was still at work reigning over all the earth. New life would spring forth.

The earth whispers hope to remind us of the restored world that’s coming. The winter will break forth into spring. The dead will come back to life. The earth will burst and bloom.

Let the ground remind you of the hope that’s coming. Of the good news that we can hold onto—even in our wintry and silent seasons. He is doing a new thing. He is making a way to be in the garden with us again.

#holyspirit #kingdomcome

There’s nothing like the first glimpse of growth to remind us that spring is breathing new life into the ground.

Winter giving birth to spring.

For thousands of years, God has been speaking to his people through gardening metaphors. 🌱 The Israelites were desperate for their winter season to end. God had been silent for so long. His presence seemed so far off.

When it seemed like he would be silent forever, God returned with a sudden shout. His words spoke comfort over his people. He had never left, he was still at work reigning over all the earth. New life would spring forth.

The earth whispers hope to remind us of the restored world that’s coming. The winter will break forth into spring. The dead will come back to life. The earth will burst and bloom.

Let the ground remind you of the hope that’s coming. Of the good news that we can hold onto—even in our wintry and silent seasons. He is doing a new thing. He is making a way to be in the garden with us again.

#holyspirit #kingdomcome

A few of yall have asked… and I’m finally feeling called to share more about what I’ve been teaching and learning in person! (A few hints: scripture based teaching on spiritual gifts, hearing God speak, the unseen spiritual world, and experiencing the presence of God in your everyday).

I’ve always loved a hot mic 🎤 so now’s your chance to mute me if you don’t want to hear about Jesus all spring/summer! 😂

#holyspirit #kingdomcome

A few of yall have asked… and I’m finally feeling called to share more about what I’ve been teaching and learning in person! (A few hints: scripture based teaching on spiritual gifts, hearing God speak, the unseen spiritual world, and experiencing the presence of God in your everyday).

I’ve always loved a hot mic 🎤 so now’s your chance to mute me if you don’t want to hear about Jesus all spring/summer! 😂

#holyspirit #kingdomcome

I’ll always be grateful to @dana.m.keck for this invitation 🤍🤍🤍

If you’ve ever considered reading the Bible chronologically I’d highly recommend @thebiblerecap with @taraleighcobble
Nothing has made me see the bigger narrative of scripture or fall in love with the Bible more!

You can listen (like me!) in the car, shower or while you’re doing the dishes. Or you can purchase the book and go at a slower pace. DM me if you’re curious or have questions.

#holyspirit #kingdomcome

I’ll always be grateful to @dana.m.keck for this invitation 🤍🤍🤍

If you’ve ever considered reading the Bible chronologically I’d highly recommend @thebiblerecap with @taraleighcobble
Nothing has made me see the bigger narrative of scripture or fall in love with the Bible more!

You can listen (like me!) in the car, shower or while you’re doing the dishes. Or you can purchase the book and go at a slower pace. DM me if you’re curious or have questions.

#holyspirit #kingdomcome

John 16:7 is one of my favorite verses in the New Testament, but it’s also one of the most mysterious.

✨How is the Holy Spirit’s presence better than Jesus in the flesh?
✨How did this comfort the disciples?
✨How does it still comfort us?

We wrapped up our spring Bible study on John 13-17 this evening and I’m looking forward to sharing more about what we learned with you.

Jesus says the Holy Spirit’s presence is better, but he doesn’t specify how. I’d love to hear your thoughts. Drop them below! 👇🏻

#holyspirit #kingdomcome

John 16:7 is one of my favorite verses in the New Testament, but it’s also one of the most mysterious.

✨How is the Holy Spirit’s presence better than Jesus in the flesh?
✨How did this comfort the disciples?
✨How does it still comfort us?

We wrapped up our spring Bible study on John 13-17 this evening and I’m looking forward to sharing more about what we learned with you.

Jesus says the Holy Spirit’s presence is better, but he doesn’t specify how. I’d love to hear your thoughts. Drop them below! 👇🏻

#holyspirit #kingdomcome

If you had asked me a few years ago if I thought that practicing a Jewish tradition (as a Christian) would help me know God better, I would’ve thought *this persons slightly nuts.*

But as God usually likes to do with my own preconceived notions, he slowly took down my walls of misunderstanding. As I’ve studied and written on Jesus’s Farewell Discourse in John 13-17 over the last year, several things become clear to me. One of the biggest has been the desire to better understand the meal, the Last Supper, that Jesus partook with his disciples on the final night before he was betrayed.

Jesus is our Passover lamb.

So on Maundy Thursday, with the women in my spring Bible study, we practiced a Jewish Seder Passover meal. We didn’t do this to try and be Jewish or take on any Jewish traditions personally. We feasted together and entered into the story that Jesus himself would’ve participated in 2,000 years ago. Together we experienced the historical and Biblical context of this final meal.

We remembered Gods faithfulness to his people during the exodus, during Jesus’s final days, and still today for us.

We tasted and saw that God has always been, and still is good. 🍽️

If you had asked me a few years ago if I thought that practicing a Jewish tradition (as a Christian) would help me know God better, I would’ve thought *this persons slightly nuts.*

But as God usually likes to do with my own preconceived notions, he slowly took down my walls of misunderstanding. As I’ve studied and written on Jesus’s Farewell Discourse in John 13-17 over the last year, several things become clear to me. One of the biggest has been the desire to better understand the meal, the Last Supper, that Jesus partook with his disciples on the final night before he was betrayed.

Jesus is our Passover lamb.

So on Maundy Thursday, with the women in my spring Bible study, we practiced a Jewish Seder Passover meal. We didn’t do this to try and be Jewish or take on any Jewish traditions personally. We feasted together and entered into the story that Jesus himself would’ve participated in 2,000 years ago. Together we experienced the historical and Biblical context of this final meal.

We remembered Gods faithfulness to his people during the exodus, during Jesus’s final days, and still today for us.

We tasted and saw that God has always been, and still is good. 🍽️

Holy Monday isn’t just about flipped tables.
It’s about making room.

Room for worship.
Room for prayer.
Room to be with God.

Jesus isn’t afraid of our mess.
He enters our hearts to restore his holy house.

“My house shall be called a house of prayer.” -Luke 19:46

A prayer for Holy Monday:
Jesus, show me where I’ve allowed things to distract and overshadow your holy presence. Clean up my heart and sweep away what’s not from you—for you. Create room in me for more of your holy presence this week. 🙏🏻
__

Share with a friend who knows things are messy, but you’re moving towards Jesus together! 🎙️

#holyweek #easter #kingdomcome

Holy Monday isn’t just about flipped tables.
It’s about making room.

Room for worship.
Room for prayer.
Room to be with God.

Jesus isn’t afraid of our mess.
He enters our hearts to restore his holy house.

“My house shall be called a house of prayer.” -Luke 19:46

A prayer for Holy Monday:
Jesus, show me where I’ve allowed things to distract and overshadow your holy presence. Clean up my heart and sweep away what’s not from you—for you. Create room in me for more of your holy presence this week. 🙏🏻
__

Share with a friend who knows things are messy, but you’re moving towards Jesus together! 🎙️

#holyweek #easter #kingdomcome

Have you ever asked God for something and seen him show up big time?! That’s what this past weekend was like for me. After praying for a community of other writers and women who love God’s word, I stumbled into @calledcreatives last year. These women have heard my highs and lows, and been such an encouragement to me with my writing and teaching.

I prayed for 1-2 women, but the Lord gave me an entire community. Thank you @lisawhittle and @alliworthington for stewarding your gifts to raise up women who use their voices for the kingdom. Heaven won’t be the same because of the power in God’s words going forth from your flock.

If you feel isolated from community, stop and ask the Lord to bring you your people. He loves to surprise his children with bigger and better answers than they ever even dream.

Have you ever asked God for something and seen him show up big time?! That’s what this past weekend was like for me. After praying for a community of other writers and women who love God’s word, I stumbled into @calledcreatives last year. These women have heard my highs and lows, and been such an encouragement to me with my writing and teaching.

I prayed for 1-2 women, but the Lord gave me an entire community. Thank you @lisawhittle and @alliworthington for stewarding your gifts to raise up women who use their voices for the kingdom. Heaven won’t be the same because of the power in God’s words going forth from your flock.

If you feel isolated from community, stop and ask the Lord to bring you your people. He loves to surprise his children with bigger and better answers than they ever even dream.

Today we welcomed Anna Grace into our covenant church family through the practice of baptism. @tankthebuilder and I made promises (alongside the church members) to teach her the ways of Jesus as she grows up. We don’t believe this baptism “saves” her, but we do believe that this public profession is an outward sign that showcases our (and the church’s) commitment to raise her up in the faith. We are so blessed to have such an incredible community and church family @midtownfellowship to call home. 🤍

Anna comes from Luke 2, the prophetess who recognized Jesus as an infant. “And coming up at that very hour she began to give thanks to God and to speak of him to all who were waiting for the redemption of Jerusalem.“ (Luke 2:38) Anna means grace and we pray Anna Grace will come to know saving grace and give thanks to God all of her days.

I’ve done quite a bit of research on Biblical baptism in the last few months and would love to dialogue if you’ve been curious about infant/believer baptism. Or even more wild… baptism of the Spirit! I’d love to share more. DM me and we can chat. 📣

Today we welcomed Anna Grace into our covenant church family through the practice of baptism. @tankthebuilder and I made promises (alongside the church members) to teach her the ways of Jesus as she grows up. We don’t believe this baptism “saves” her, but we do believe that this public profession is an outward sign that showcases our (and the church’s) commitment to raise her up in the faith. We are so blessed to have such an incredible community and church family @midtownfellowship to call home. 🤍

Anna comes from Luke 2, the prophetess who recognized Jesus as an infant. “And coming up at that very hour she began to give thanks to God and to speak of him to all who were waiting for the redemption of Jerusalem.“ (Luke 2:38) Anna means grace and we pray Anna Grace will come to know saving grace and give thanks to God all of her days.

I’ve done quite a bit of research on Biblical baptism in the last few months and would love to dialogue if you’ve been curious about infant/believer baptism. Or even more wild… baptism of the Spirit! I’d love to share more. DM me and we can chat. 📣

✨7 years ✨ since we said I do. A lot can happen in 7 years- the job transitions, children (3! 🤯) travel, house renovations, family drama, deepening friendships, loss, infertility, new businesses, ministry opportunities, continuing education, and so much more.

The Israelites in the Old Testament were told to work for 6 years and rest in year 7 to let the ground recover and celebrate the harvest of their labors. So that’s what we’re doing as we enter year 7. Celebrating all that is and has been labored for. Grieving what’s been lost. Resting more. Reminding ourselves over and over of Gods faithfulness to us.

This man of mine is like this tall oak tree. He’s rooted, secure, steady, and strong. It’s a privilege to be his wife as we work, build, and celebrate together. I’m so thankful for you @tankthebuilder. May this be our richest year yet. 🤍

✨7 years ✨ since we said I do. A lot can happen in 7 years- the job transitions, children (3! 🤯) travel, house renovations, family drama, deepening friendships, loss, infertility, new businesses, ministry opportunities, continuing education, and so much more.

The Israelites in the Old Testament were told to work for 6 years and rest in year 7 to let the ground recover and celebrate the harvest of their labors. So that’s what we’re doing as we enter year 7. Celebrating all that is and has been labored for. Grieving what’s been lost. Resting more. Reminding ourselves over and over of Gods faithfulness to us.

This man of mine is like this tall oak tree. He’s rooted, secure, steady, and strong. It’s a privilege to be his wife as we work, build, and celebrate together. I’m so thankful for you @tankthebuilder. May this be our richest year yet. 🤍

Looking back at the incredible memories of 2024. A year of slowing down and soaking in the right things- more time with family, delighting in the ordinary, spending time with the Lord, and investing in kingdom things. ✨ The Lord is so faithful. “Oh, taste and see that the LORD is good! Blessed is the man who takes refuge in him!” Psalm 34:8

Looking back at the incredible memories of 2024. A year of slowing down and soaking in the right things- more time with family, delighting in the ordinary, spending time with the Lord, and investing in kingdom things. ✨ The Lord is so faithful. “Oh, taste and see that the LORD is good! Blessed is the man who takes refuge in him!” Psalm 34:8

November 2024 was a good one 🍁🍂

November 2024 was a good one 🍁🍂

In our squishy era ✨

As I held AG up to meet a new friend this morning, I squeezed her chunky little thigh. “She’s in her squishy era. It’s just the best.” I smiled fondly down at her.

Cradled in the couch cushions this afternoon, I looked down to behold her little rolls once again. Her body curved into mine, a reminder of her former abode. I traced her outline with my fingertips. She’s grown within me and I’ve grown with her.

As I held her, creamy skin melting into my own, I thought… I’m also in my squishy era. My body has been molded, sculpted into something new. Motherhood, with both the blessing and hardship of birth, has revised me. Its edited me. It’s become me as I’ve become a mother.

In our culture, there’s a constant pressure to be better. Eat better, sleep better, work better, parent better, work out better. But sometimes the better is actually being content with being right where we’re supposed to be.

Being. Becoming. Beholding.

Motherhood is giving thanks for the miracle and mercy of each new day and season. It’s remembering what’s been and what’s being made new. It’s grace and gratitude breathed in and out, again and again.

The new lines, wrinkles, and rolls actually tell a bigger and better story. My squishy skin is etched with echoes of fulfilled promises. It all points to a faithful God.

When I’m tempted to look down at my body and feel the weight of this season, I actually have an invitation from the Lord to look up and celebrate His provision. I get to grow in gratitude in the midst of my own imperfection.

I get to have a squishy season— and for that, I am forever grateful.

In our squishy era ✨

As I held AG up to meet a new friend this morning, I squeezed her chunky little thigh. “She’s in her squishy era. It’s just the best.” I smiled fondly down at her.

Cradled in the couch cushions this afternoon, I looked down to behold her little rolls once again. Her body curved into mine, a reminder of her former abode. I traced her outline with my fingertips. She’s grown within me and I’ve grown with her.

As I held her, creamy skin melting into my own, I thought… I’m also in my squishy era. My body has been molded, sculpted into something new. Motherhood, with both the blessing and hardship of birth, has revised me. Its edited me. It’s become me as I’ve become a mother.

In our culture, there’s a constant pressure to be better. Eat better, sleep better, work better, parent better, work out better. But sometimes the better is actually being content with being right where we’re supposed to be.

Being. Becoming. Beholding.

Motherhood is giving thanks for the miracle and mercy of each new day and season. It’s remembering what’s been and what’s being made new. It’s grace and gratitude breathed in and out, again and again.

The new lines, wrinkles, and rolls actually tell a bigger and better story. My squishy skin is etched with echoes of fulfilled promises. It all points to a faithful God.

When I’m tempted to look down at my body and feel the weight of this season, I actually have an invitation from the Lord to look up and celebrate His provision. I get to grow in gratitude in the midst of my own imperfection.

I get to have a squishy season— and for that, I am forever grateful.

I’ve spent this year not only preparing to birth an XL baby, but also quietly crafting the next chapter of ministry work teaching and writing under @kingdom_co_

I am burning to tell you what I’m reading (and finally starting to write!!!) about… but like every friend and family member in the waiting room frantically refreshing their phones for an update on the status of a baby’s arrival, sometimes you just have to sit and wait. 😜

In the meantime, give @kingdom_co_ a follow to stay in the loop. Or better yet, sign up for our email list at the link in the bio. While I wish I could announce everything coming in 2025 right.this.minute, I can promise you there are incredible resources, retreats and writings coming your way!!

#holyspirit #god #jesus #christian #discipleship #bible #scripture #godsword #study #peace #joy #faithfulness #retreat #sabbath #prayer #rest #kingdom #kingdomcome #faith #spiritual #spiritualawakening #spiritualgrowth

I’ve spent this year not only preparing to birth an XL baby, but also quietly crafting the next chapter of ministry work teaching and writing under @kingdom_co_

I am burning to tell you what I’m reading (and finally starting to write!!!) about… but like every friend and family member in the waiting room frantically refreshing their phones for an update on the status of a baby’s arrival, sometimes you just have to sit and wait. 😜

In the meantime, give @kingdom_co_ a follow to stay in the loop. Or better yet, sign up for our email list at the link in the bio. While I wish I could announce everything coming in 2025 right.this.minute, I can promise you there are incredible resources, retreats and writings coming your way!!

#holyspirit #god #jesus #christian #discipleship #bible #scripture #godsword #study #peace #joy #faithfulness #retreat #sabbath #prayer #rest #kingdom #kingdomcome #faith #spiritual #spiritualawakening #spiritualgrowth

I got the best birthday present ever this week.

On Tuesday, August 27th, 2024, we welcomed Anna Grace Phillips into this world. The name Anna means “grace” so with Grace as her middle name, we rejoice over her life as a double portion of grace given to us as her parents.

We have had many great and godly Ann’s and Anna’s in our life, especially Andrew’s aunt @carolann_3, @annagkaufmann and Ann Poteet (who taught me how to really pray). The name is also a nod to my favorite fictional character of all time, Anne of Green Gables and favorite real life writer/character, Anne Frank.

Lastly, and mostly importantly, Anna comes from Luke 2:36-38 💕 We pray that our baby girl Anna Grace will always be able to see Jesus and worship him as her Lord and Savior.

Big brothers are smitten and we remain grateful for such a healthy birth and baby. 💕👶🏼 What a joyful privilege to be her mom!

I got the best birthday present ever this week.

On Tuesday, August 27th, 2024, we welcomed Anna Grace Phillips into this world. The name Anna means “grace” so with Grace as her middle name, we rejoice over her life as a double portion of grace given to us as her parents.

We have had many great and godly Ann’s and Anna’s in our life, especially Andrew’s aunt @carolann_3, @annagkaufmann and Ann Poteet (who taught me how to really pray). The name is also a nod to my favorite fictional character of all time, Anne of Green Gables and favorite real life writer/character, Anne Frank.

Lastly, and mostly importantly, Anna comes from Luke 2:36-38 💕 We pray that our baby girl Anna Grace will always be able to see Jesus and worship him as her Lord and Savior.

Big brothers are smitten and we remain grateful for such a healthy birth and baby. 💕👶🏼 What a joyful privilege to be her mom!

Summer 2024 ☀️ featuring: the summer of the third trimester 🤰🏼and two toddlers 👦🏼👦🏼 Made a lot of memories and time slowed down.

Summer 2024 ☀️ featuring: the summer of the third trimester 🤰🏼and two toddlers 👦🏼👦🏼 Made a lot of memories and time slowed down.

I cast hundreds of seeds, but only a few found their roots deep into the ground.

Every time I pass by this flower bed, I’m visually reminded of what could have been blooming here. What should have been growing. Hundreds of seeds fell on the same soil, but in the end only 5 sprouted.

I could blame it on my kids or the dog. Or even better yet, the lack of rainwater that reaches this bed, but their failure to grow was probably a combination of all three. Every time I see this bed, I’m tempted to think about what it could have become.

But recently instead of seeing all the mulch and missing growth, I’ve started seeing the flowers. I’ve paused to drink in the hearty blooms and vibrant colors. I’ve sat and watched their necks reach for fresh sunlight. Instead of being discouraged, I’ve been captivated by what is.

Isn’t this the reality of life? We can be so aware and critical in looking for the *should have beens* that we miss out on the living beauty that’s right before our very eyes. It might not have been my “plan”, but that doesn’t make it less beautiful. If anything, it’s more lovely because it’s living—wild and free. 🌺

“Be still before the LORD…” (Psalm 37:7a) Its yet another whispered invitation for me to slow down and see.

Be still and see the flowers. They aren’t an accident or a flop. They are a lovely gift—a reminder of real beauty amidst the ordinary every day.

I cast hundreds of seeds, but only a few found their roots deep into the ground.

Every time I pass by this flower bed, I’m visually reminded of what could have been blooming here. What should have been growing. Hundreds of seeds fell on the same soil, but in the end only 5 sprouted.

I could blame it on my kids or the dog. Or even better yet, the lack of rainwater that reaches this bed, but their failure to grow was probably a combination of all three. Every time I see this bed, I’m tempted to think about what it could have become.

But recently instead of seeing all the mulch and missing growth, I’ve started seeing the flowers. I’ve paused to drink in the hearty blooms and vibrant colors. I’ve sat and watched their necks reach for fresh sunlight. Instead of being discouraged, I’ve been captivated by what is.

Isn’t this the reality of life? We can be so aware and critical in looking for the *should have beens* that we miss out on the living beauty that’s right before our very eyes. It might not have been my “plan”, but that doesn’t make it less beautiful. If anything, it’s more lovely because it’s living—wild and free. 🌺

“Be still before the LORD…” (Psalm 37:7a) Its yet another whispered invitation for me to slow down and see.

Be still and see the flowers. They aren’t an accident or a flop. They are a lovely gift—a reminder of real beauty amidst the ordinary every day.

A lot of people have asked me how I am doing in this season with 2 & 3 year old boys and a baby due at the end of summer. The word I’ve been drawn to describe this season over and over again is…slow…

Naturally the other person usually chuckles as one of my boys begins to roar or run away with a forbidden snack. The response has typically been, “I think your days are anything but slow.”

But here’s the thing about a slow paced season. It’s not about how many events (or lack thereof) are etched into my PLANNER— it’s more about my PRIORITIES. We certainly are still having people in our home and traveling to see family or spend a weekend at the lake. Our calendar isn’t actually empty. It doesn’t need to be empty to be slow.

The slowness comes from a release of expectations. It comes from a willingness to see what’s right in front of me as most important this season.

Slowness hasn’t been as much about my pace as it’s been about my posture and priorities.

As I long for these hot, sticky days in my third trimester to come to an end, I’m also prioritizing soaking in God’s new mercies every morning. I’m lowering expectations of myself (and the little people around me). I’m looking up at the One who holds us all together and I’m looking down at the ones who remind me of His faithfulness despite my performance or accomplishments.

You don’t have to cancel all your plans for a slower paced summer. You just have to look up and shift your priorities to center around the One who holds all things together.

A lot of people have asked me how I am doing in this season with 2 & 3 year old boys and a baby due at the end of summer. The word I’ve been drawn to describe this season over and over again is…slow…

Naturally the other person usually chuckles as one of my boys begins to roar or run away with a forbidden snack. The response has typically been, “I think your days are anything but slow.”

But here’s the thing about a slow paced season. It’s not about how many events (or lack thereof) are etched into my PLANNER— it’s more about my PRIORITIES. We certainly are still having people in our home and traveling to see family or spend a weekend at the lake. Our calendar isn’t actually empty. It doesn’t need to be empty to be slow.

The slowness comes from a release of expectations. It comes from a willingness to see what’s right in front of me as most important this season.

Slowness hasn’t been as much about my pace as it’s been about my posture and priorities.

As I long for these hot, sticky days in my third trimester to come to an end, I’m also prioritizing soaking in God’s new mercies every morning. I’m lowering expectations of myself (and the little people around me). I’m looking up at the One who holds us all together and I’m looking down at the ones who remind me of His faithfulness despite my performance or accomplishments.

You don’t have to cancel all your plans for a slower paced summer. You just have to look up and shift your priorities to center around the One who holds all things together.

Snapshots of a slow spring 🌱 with many sweet celebrations

Snapshots of a slow spring 🌱 with many sweet celebrations

Andrew and I are thrilled to share that baby 🎀 GIRL 🎀 Phillips will be joining our crew early September 2024! We know every good gift comes from above (James 1:17) so we rejoice in this abundant gift of life. Drew and Pete can’t wait to have a little sister! 💕

Andrew and I are thrilled to share that baby 🎀 GIRL 🎀 Phillips will be joining our crew early September 2024! We know every good gift comes from above (James 1:17) so we rejoice in this abundant gift of life. Drew and Pete can’t wait to have a little sister! 💕

Celebrated Big Pete turning TWO over the weekend with all the train things! 🚂🚂 What a joy Pete is to everyone who he encounters.🌟 We can’t wait for all the shenanigans and humor he will bring us in the next year ahead!

Celebrated Big Pete turning TWO over the weekend with all the train things! 🚂🚂 What a joy Pete is to everyone who he encounters.🌟 We can’t wait for all the shenanigans and humor he will bring us in the next year ahead!

I read somewhere this week that we are living in answered prayers from 5 years ago. This really struck me because just before Advent a few years ago, I was told (inaccurately) that there was a less than 15% chance I would ever be able to get pregnant with my own children.

This morning I sat with my older son and just watched the fire crackle and tree lights sparkle on the tree. 🎄

No other gifts compare (outside of Jesus)… but how easy for me to forget the deep longing that Christmas and Advent held for years. I would read Mary’s story as I wept on Christmas Eve. The pregnant expectation of hope to come, but not yet fulfilled.

How easily we can miss seeing His faithfulness when we’re focusing on all our current failures.

I’m refusing to accept the hustle and fake cheer of Christmas this season. Instead, I’m slowing down to sit by the tree and fire to be reminded of all the ways He has made a way to bring light into the darkest parts of my story.

He is faithful. Sometimes we just need to be reminded slow down to see Him.

I read somewhere this week that we are living in answered prayers from 5 years ago. This really struck me because just before Advent a few years ago, I was told (inaccurately) that there was a less than 15% chance I would ever be able to get pregnant with my own children.

This morning I sat with my older son and just watched the fire crackle and tree lights sparkle on the tree. 🎄

No other gifts compare (outside of Jesus)… but how easy for me to forget the deep longing that Christmas and Advent held for years. I would read Mary’s story as I wept on Christmas Eve. The pregnant expectation of hope to come, but not yet fulfilled.

How easily we can miss seeing His faithfulness when we’re focusing on all our current failures.

I’m refusing to accept the hustle and fake cheer of Christmas this season. Instead, I’m slowing down to sit by the tree and fire to be reminded of all the ways He has made a way to bring light into the darkest parts of my story.

He is faithful. Sometimes we just need to be reminded slow down to see Him.

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