Journal Snippets: Making Meaningful Mondays
The Blessing of Unfinished Days
A smattering of journal entries because it’s mind-blowing to see His golden thread connecting events and making a way.
“With God all things are possible.” Matthew 19:26.
Some Monday Reflections…
Its good to step away from what I crafted yesterday, it was awesome. I didn’t finish the project I started, but that’s okay. Thats how I work usually. Taking it easy. It just feels like the right thing for today. Thank you God for the blessing of taking it easy on a Monday!
Time put into those pieces was/is not accounted for - hmmm… something to be mindful of for sure. I don’t want to be working so much that I can’t take time to hang out with Jeff, Ralph and family. I also need my personal time for my journaling, bookwork and crafting, crafting for me. Also summer vacations - travel. I want to make sure I am enjoying our Bertha adventures. I don’t want to be worrying about the shop and marketing when I should be relaxing and making memories - and living!
I know, I just have this knowing in my heart that it will all work out. I feel no matter what happens, I will be okay. God will guide me and we will figure it out. Its like my safety net in a way. I trust in God and in myself. We would just keep going. Its very lovely to feel that safe. Whenever I am scared or worried I know I have God to protect me. Prayer is key. I believe in myself because God is part of me... I am with God.
I want JJ to be fun, play time... If I am not having fun, then why am I doing it? The whole idea was to share my art, connect with like minded, good energy, kind people. Be a burst of light and positivity for people when they needed a spark of goodness. I want my art to be that spark. Spread love - put out the art and stop over thinking it! Speak from my heart!... Play! A safe and healthy place for people to come for a spark of love and kindness. A bright light in the darkness. I will share my light and then all will have some of God too, when they find JJ and my art.
Today’s Thoughts = Same thoughts but better, because I am getting better.
Looking back at these journal entries, I can see how the Lord is helping me focus more clearly on Him. I am learning to walk through my days with the peace of Christ rather than the pressure of the world.
If you read my recent post about the heart of Jellybean Jumble, you know I’ve been intentionally choosing joy and presence over hustle.
For so long, culture has told us that our worth is tied to how much we produce, optimize, or finish.
But in Matthew 11:28–30, Jesus offers us such a comforting invitation. His yoke is easy. His burden is light. When I align my heart with Him, I don't have to hustle to prove my value.
Honoring a Restful Rhythm
I am learning to honor that restful rhythm. When I look at my life, my crafts, and my shop, I don’t want to be so consumed by marketing, perfection, or pushing products that I miss the actual living. I want time to hang out with Jeff and Ralph. I want quiet space for prayer, road trips, and making art purely for the joy of playing.
The truth is, when we stop trying to control every outcome, we step right into God's safety net. Philippians 4:7 promises that "the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
I have this quiet, unwavering knowing in my heart that it will all work out. Walking with Jesus gives me the safety and confidence to just keep going, one soft, faithful step at a time.
If creating isn’t bringing a spark of light or fun, then I’m missing the point. My prayer is that my art reflects His light. LORD, let it be a warm, safe spark of kindness for anyone walking through a dark season.
So today, if you are holding onto unfinished plans or feeling the pressure to do "more," here is your gentle permission slip:
Take it easy.
Speak from your heart.
Let yourself play.
And trust the One who holds your tomorrow.
Put out your goodness, enjoy the learning, and let Jesus handle the rest.
A quiet thought for your heart today:
Take a gentle breath as you step into this week, and ask yourself: What is one unfinished plan or worry I can place in God’s hands today so my soul can rest?
✨ Pass along a little light ✨
If this note brought a little extra peace to your day, feel free to share it with a friend who might need a gentle pick-me-up.
Until next time,
💖 Yvonne Marie 💖
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