When You Cannot See the Full Picture
Heart Happy
Audio By Carbonatix
Friend, have you ever looked back at a heavy, hard season of your life and been relieved that God didn’t let you see what was coming? I know I have. If we could see every rugged path waiting for us, we might just sit down and quit. Thankfully, God doesn’t let us see the future. Instead, He gives us just enough grace for the day… and sometimes for the hour.
As I think about the last few months, my heart is thankful that I did not have the whole timeline laid out in advance. God knew I needed to lean entirely on His daily strength rather than my own feeble attempts at preparation. I took one day at a time because that’s all I could do. And God was there every step of the way.
And Out of Nowhere…
When I looked back at one of my posts from April 20, I had no idea what was coming just a few days later. I won’t share my kids’ stories… those are theirs to share. I will say that one of our children had a crisis that involved numerous hospital stays. Another one of our kids totaled a car. Thankfully, both kids are okay now, but it took a lot out of us, especially since these things happened at the same time.
In addition to that, we had some medical crises with my in-laws who live with us. And my spring speaking engagements included five conferences in May and June that we had to drive to, set up, and present at. This included packing and selling thousands of books. It also included speaking and ministering to tens of thousands of families.
Oh, yes, we also had a child graduate from high school in May. So, there’s that.
While the speaking and graduation were planned, the rest wasn’t. There were days I felt like I was treading water.
Then, less than a week after my last speaking conference, our daughter’s family from the Czech Republic came for five weeks. We also took family photos! Most of our kids and grandkids were there.
A Picture is Forming
Last week, 16 weeks after I wrote my April 20th post, was the first Monday that I’ve had time to sit and write the next Monday Meet-Up. I laughed out loud when I realized the topic was When You Cannot See the Full Picture. That’s an understatement!
I hadn’t seen the full picture when we started 2026, and I’m glad. I would have stressed and worried about what was to come. Thankfully, since I couldn’t see the future, I only had to face one day at a time. I also had to lean on God’s strength to do it!
I am so thankful that God carried me through the last few months. He has truly sustained me and rescued me from the overwhelm!
What About You?
There are days when the world feels incredibly heavy. Even though my family has gotten through the hard stuff (I hope!), there are still demands on my schedule.
Between managing the household with John, making sure my in-laws have what they need, keeping up with writing projects, and checking in on my Trilivy coaching groups, the anxiety can sneak right in. I know you feel that same weight in your own life. (And if you’re curious about my free coaching group, join My Wellness Is My Worship).
Jesus Walks Beside Us
Often, we wonder if God hears our cries. We question if He sees the tears we shed in the quiet hours of the night when sleep simply will not come.
Reading Luke 24, we find two disciples walking the dusty road to Emmaus. They were crushed by grief. Their hope was completely shattered after watching the crucifixion. Jesus walks right up beside them, and they do not even recognize Him. The scripture tells us, “As they talked and discussed these things with each other, Jesus himself came up and walked along with them; but they were kept from recognizing him” (Luke 24:15-16, NIV).
How is that even possible? Maybe because their problems loomed so big in their eyes that they couldn’t see anything else! I can relate.
God can handle your heartache, friend. He does not turn away when we are confused or afraid. God can deal with our overwhelm. In fact, He walks directly beside us.
Are You Missing God’s Presence?
Often, we are so focused on our own pain that we miss God’s gentle presence. Jesus patiently spoke the Scriptures to His weary disciples. He showed them how He was there all along.
Jesus longs to do the same with us today. Instead of looking at life’s problems, lift your eyes. See what God is doing and join Him. Let His Word bring warmth and relief to your weary soul.
Where can faith take you when you stop trying to manage the outcome and start trusting the Master? God is not waiting for you to get your act together so He can use you. He is waiting for you to give Him the pieces so He can rebuild you. Yes, His presence can do that.
God Can Handle Your Heartache
Whether you are facing a new season or the quiet ache of a long-standing doubt, know that God can handle your heartache, friend. Your weariness is exactly where His grace meets us. We do not have to muster the strength to keep going on our own. When we hand over our broken pieces, we can lean entirely on these beautiful, steadfast promises:
Isaiah 46:4: “Even to your old age and gray hairs I am he, I am he who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you, and I will rescue you”
Deuteronomy 1:31: “There you saw how the Lord your God carried you, as a father carries his son, all the way you went until you reached this place.”
Psalm 77:11-12: “I will remember the deeds of the Lord; yes, I will remember your miracles of long ago. I will consider all your works and meditate on all your mighty deeds.”
These verses are such a comforting reminder for us. When we take a moment to look back at the difficult seasons of our lives, we can clearly see the fingerprints of a loving Father who was sustaining us the entire time. God can handle your heartache, and He is always faithful to carry us through it.
A Prayer for Looking Back and Trusting God
Lord, we come to You today admitting that the world often feels too heavy to carry. We look at our daily responsibilities and the worries trying to steal our peace, and we confess that our own strength is simply not enough.
Thank You for the beautiful reminder that we do not have to walk this road alone. When we look back at our hardest seasons, we can clearly see Your fingerprints. You were the One carrying us through the doubt. You sustained us when we could not see the full picture.
Forgive us for the moments we let fear distract us from Your loving presence. Help us to release our grip on control. We are not striving for a flawless performance today. We simply want to be Heart Connectors who rest in Your unending grace.
Please open our eyes to see what You are doing and join You in it. Take our anxieties and replace them with the quiet confidence that comes from knowing You are holding us close.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.
If you’re interested in reading through the Bible with me, check out our Monday Meetup!
Last week (ha, ha!), I sent out a Monday Meetup Quiet Time Kit.
Inside, you will find:
- A daily reading checklist.
- A short devotional.
- Three journaling prompts to help you pour out your heart to the Lord.
We aren’t looking for gold stars here. (Obviously!) Instead, we are just heart connectors taking a few quiet moments to let God be the strength in our weakness. Take a deep breath today. You do not walk alone.
Want more insight? Join us on the Daily Bible podcast! 🎧 LISTEN & 📺 WATCH
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Weekly readings for the Daily Bible Podcast with Tricia and Michelle
August 17
Ezekiel 5-9
The Blossoming of Wickedness
A Message in Shaved Hair
In Ezekiel 5, God commands Ezekiel to shave his head and beard, dividing the hair into three parts to symbolize the three ways He will respond to Israel’s rebellion. Each part represents a different aspect of judgment:
- One Third Burned: Symbolizes the destruction within Jerusalem.
- One Third Struck with the Sword: Represents those who will perish by violence.
- One Third Scattered to the Wind: Reflects those who will be exiled and dispersed.
These acts illustrate the severity of God’s judgment against a nation that has defiled His temple and turned to idolatry.
Judgment on Israel
In Ezekiel 7, the blossoming of wickedness and pride is depicted as a sardonic reversal. The nation’s sins have reached their peak, and disaster upon disaster awaits them. The poetic language conveys the inevitability and severity of the coming judgment.
The image of sin blossoming reminds us to examine our hearts for the seeds of pride and wickedness that may be taking root. Like a gardener, we must be vigilant in uprooting these weeds to prevent them from choking out the good in our lives.
Idolatry in the Temple
In Ezekiel 8, Ezekiel is taken in a vision to the temple, where he witnesses the abominations and idolatry committed by the Israelites. The chapter serves as an indictment against their spiritual adultery, highlighting the extent to which they have strayed from God.
The presence of idolatry within the temple itself underscores the gravity of Israel’s sin and the need for divine intervention.
The Mark of the Righteous
In Ezekiel 9, six men (possibly angels) are summoned, each with a deadly weapon, while a seventh man is tasked with marking the foreheads of those who mourn over the city’s abominations. These marked individuals will be spared from judgment, demonstrating God’s mercy amidst His wrath.
The act of marking the righteous emphasizes the importance of remaining faithful to God even in a corrupt world. It challenges us to stand firm in our beliefs and live lives that reflect His righteousness.
Word of the Day: Blossomed
Definition: To flourish or develop.
Our word today serves as a metaphor for the consequences of sin and pride. In these chapters, Ezekiel uses vivid imagery and symbolic acts to convey God’s judgment upon Israel and highlight the spiritual decay that has taken root.
Cultivating Spiritual Growth
Examining Our Hearts:
The imagery of sin blossoming calls us to reflect on the state of our hearts. Are we allowing pride and wickedness to take root, or are we cultivating a garden of humility and righteousness?
Pruning for Growth:
Like a gardener, ask God to reveal the areas of your life that need pruning and to help you remove the weeds of sin.
Blossoming in Adversity:
Despite the judgment, God promises to spare a remnant who will recognize their sin and turn back to Him. These individuals will blossom under His care, growing strong in their faith.
Welcome the Process:
Trust that God can transform your life, replacing the choking vines of sin with the fragrant blossoms of humility, kindness, and love.
Living Out Our Faith:
In a world where sin often seems to flourish, we are called to be watchmen of our own souls, discerning God’s truth and living it out with integrity.
Faithfulness in Small Things:
Whether speaking to a large audience or having conversations with loved ones, be faithful in sharing God’s messages with truth and grace.
August 18
Ezekiel 10-13
The Departure of God’s Glory
The Glory of God in the Temple
In Ezekiel 10, we witness a dramatic vision of God’s glory departing from the temple. Ezekiel sees a throne of blue lapis lazuli above the cherubim, symbolizing the divine presence. The coals of fire from the throne signify the judgment that will come upon Jerusalem.
The departure of God’s glory marks the end of a significant relationship, as the divine presence leaves the temple that had been its home for centuries. This imagery serves as a powerful reminder of the consequences of turning away from God.
God’s Judgment and the Cherubim
The cherubim, with their unwavering mission, signify the unstoppable nature of God’s plans. As they carry God’s glory away, they demonstrate the seriousness of Jerusalem’s spiritual corruption and the inevitability of divine judgment.
The vision challenges us to consider the state of our own spiritual lives. Are we nurturing God’s presence within us, or are we allowing other things to take precedence?
A New Heart and Spirit
In Ezekiel 11, God promises to gather the exiles and give them a new heart and spirit. He will replace their stony hearts with tender, responsive ones, drawing them back into a relationship with Him.
Even as God’s glory departs, there is hope for restoration. God’s desire is for His people to return to Him with wholehearted obedience and trust.
This promise reminds us that no matter how far we stray, God’s glory awaits us if we are willing to turn back to Him with a responsive heart.
Symbolic Acts of Judgment
In Ezekiel 12, God instructs Ezekiel to perform symbolic actions, such as digging through a wall, to represent the coming judgment and exile. These acts serve as vivid warnings to the people of Jerusalem about the consequences of their rebellion.
The actions of Ezekiel highlight the urgency and seriousness of God’s messages. They challenge us to heed God’s warnings and align our lives with His will.
Condemnation of False Prophets
Ezekiel 13 condemns false prophets who mislead the people with lies and false visions. Their teachings are likened to whitewashing, covering up the truth but offering no real protection.
The condemnation of false prophets serves as a reminder to seek God’s truth and reject teachings that do not align with His Word. We are called to be discerning and faithful in our pursuit of His glory.
The Word of the Day: Glory
Definition: Adoring praise or worshipful thanksgiving; something that is a source of honor, fame, or admiration; a distinguished ornament or an object of pride.
This concept encapsulates the magnificence and beauty of God’s presence. Ezekiel’s visions highlight the profound implications of God’s glory departing from the temple and the promises of restoration for those who remain faithful.
Seeking God’s Glory in Our Lives
God’s glory is an indicator of His worth and value, deserving of our praise and honor. It is seen in miracles and the divine presence throughout the Bible.
Reflect on Your Heart: Are you nurturing God’s glory within you, or are you distracted by worldly promises?
Despite our shortcomings, God offers the promise of restoration and a new heart. He desires a tender, responsive heart that obeys and trusts in Him.
Seek God’s Presence: Make God’s glory your ultimate destination, aligning your life with His will and allowing His presence to guide you.
In a world filled with false teachings and distractions, we are called to be faithful in our pursuit of God’s truth and glory.
Live for His Glory: Be vigilant in discerning God’s truth and living out His messages with integrity and grace.
August 19
Ezekiel 14-16
Understanding the Detestable
In today’s study of Ezekiel chapters 14-16, we encounter a powerful message about the things God finds detestable. These chapters remind us of the seriousness of sin and God’s call for personal integrity and faithfulness. Let’s delve into these passages and discover what they mean for us today.
Ezekiel 14: Idolatry and Individual Responsibility
In Ezekiel 14, the leaders of Israel are called out for setting up idols in their hearts. These idols, though not physical, are just as real and dangerous. God warns that even if a righteous person like Noah, Daniel, or Job were present, they could only save themselves through their righteousness, not others around them. We must ask ourselves what idols we may have set up in our hearts. Are there things we prioritize over God? It’s essential to recognize these and turn back to Him, seeking His forgiveness and guidance.
Ezekiel 15: The Useless Vine
Chapter 15 uses the metaphor of a vine to describe the people of Jerusalem. A vine is only valuable if it bears fruit; otherwise, it is useless and destined to be burned. Are we bearing spiritual fruit in our lives? Let’s strive to live in a way that reflects God’s love and righteousness, producing good works that glorify Him.
Ezekiel 16: The Faithfulness of God
Despite Israel’s unfaithfulness, God promises restoration. Even though their sins are detestable, God remains faithful and will forgive those who return to Him. God’s faithfulness is a constant, even when we are not. As we confront our sins and shortcomings, let’s celebrate His unending love and mercy. When we confess our sins, God is faithful and just to forgive us (1 John 1:9).
Word of the Day: Detestable
Definition: describes actions or attitudes deserving intense dislike and loathing.
In Ezekiel 16:2, God tells Ezekiel to “confront Jerusalem with her detestable sins.” This strong language emphasizes how seriously God views idolatry and unfaithfulness. As we reflect on this word, let’s examine our own lives for anything that might be detestable to God.
Turning Away from the Detestable
The challenge for us is not just to recognize what is detestable but to actively turn away from it. Whether it’s negative thoughts, unhealthy habits, or wasted time, we must reject what is contrary to God’s will and pursue what is pure and good.
Commitment to spiritual integrity may be difficult, but it leads to a deeper relationship with God and a fulfilling life. Let’s celebrate God’s faithfulness as we strive to align our hearts with His truth.
August 20
Ezekiel 17-19
Planted in Faith
Today, we’re diving into Ezekiel chapters 17-19, which contain vivid allegories and laments that reveal deep truths about God’s justice, mercy, and the power of being “planted” in faith. These chapters remind us of the importance of personal responsibility and the lasting impact of God’s promises.
Ezekiel 17: The Allegory of Eagles and Vines
Ezekiel 17 presents an allegory involving two eagles and a vine, symbolizing the political alliances and betrayals of Judah’s kings. The first eagle represents Babylon, taking Judah’s king captive, while the second eagle symbolizes Egypt, whose promised support will ultimately fail.
In our lives, we may be tempted to rely on worldly solutions rather than trusting in God’s plan. This chapter reminds us that true security comes from being “planted” in God’s promises, not in earthly alliances.
Ezekiel 18: Personal Responsibility
Ezekiel 18 emphasizes personal responsibility, countering the belief that children are punished for their parents’ sins. God declares that each individual is accountable for their actions and offers hope that the wicked can turn from their sins and live.
We cannot blame our circumstances or heritage for our spiritual state. Instead, we are called to own our journey of faith, turning from sin and embracing the new heart and spirit God offers.
Ezekiel 19: Lament for the Princes of Israel
In Ezekiel 19, we find a lament over Israel’s leaders, depicted as a lioness and her cubs, and a vine that has been uprooted. These images reflect the downfall of Judah’s kings due to their disobedience.
As we reflect on these laments, let’s learn from the mistakes of the past. Leadership without God leads to destruction, but by staying planted in His truth, we can grow and flourish.
Word of the Day: Planted
Definition: to put or set in the ground for growth, as seeds, young trees, etc.; to establish or implant (ideas, principles, doctrines, etc.).
The word “planted” evokes images of growth, potential, and new beginnings. In Ezekiel 17:22, God speaks of planting a branch that will grow into something magnificent, symbolizing the restoration of David’s throne through the Messiah. Similarly, Jesus describes the Kingdom of Heaven as a mustard seed that, once planted, grows into a mighty tree (Matthew 13:31-32).
Planting Seeds of the Kingdom
Consider the seeds planted in your life—through family, friends, or mentors—and how they have shaped your faith. As those seeds blossom, God invites us to be seed planters in the lives of others.
Whether you are nurturing seeds in your own heart or planting seeds of faith in others, remember that even the smallest act can lead to great growth in God’s Kingdom. Embrace your role as a faithful sower, trusting that God will bring about the increase.
August 21
Ezekiel 20-22
Confronting Spiritual Pollution
The theme of pollution is central as we examine how sin taints our relationship with God and the world around us.
Ezekiel 20: A History of Rebellion
Ezekiel 20 recounts Israel’s history of rebellion against God, despite His mercy and deliverance. God describes how the people polluted themselves with idolatry, choosing to follow the corrupt practices of other nations.
Just as pollution harms the environment, sin contaminates our hearts and lives. Reflect on what might be polluting your spirit. Are there idols or influences drawing you away from God? It’s time to seek His cleansing and restoration.
Ezekiel 21: The Sword of Judgment
In Ezekiel 21, God speaks of a sharpened sword symbolizing impending judgment on Israel. This imagery highlights the severity of the people’s sins and the certainty of God’s righteous justice.
Pollution has consequences. In our spiritual lives, unchecked sin leads to separation from God. Acknowledge the areas needing repentance, and trust in His grace to renew and purify your heart.
Ezekiel 22: The Abominations of Jerusalem
Ezekiel 22 exposes the abominations committed by Jerusalem, from idolatry to social injustice and sexual immorality. God promises to scatter and judge the people, making their impurity known to the nations.
Our actions and words can either uplift or pollute those around us. Consider how you can be a positive influence, reflecting God’s love and truth instead of contributing to the world’s spiritual contamination.
Word of the Day: Pollute
Definition: To contaminate something with harmful substances, degrading its purity and value.
In Ezekiel 20:30-31, God questions Israel:
"Do you plan to pollute yourselves just as your ancestors did?... you continue to pollute yourselves with idols to this day."
This word encapsulates the spiritual contamination caused by idolatry, injustice, and immorality, leading to God’s judgment.
Cleansing Our Hearts and Minds
In these chapters, we see a call to address the pollution in our lives. Whether it’s idolatry, negative influences, or unwholesome speech, God invites us to turn away from sin and seek His purity.
God’s judgment serves as a warning but also as an opportunity for redemption. Let’s embrace His mercy, committing to live in a way that honors Him and cleanses the pollution from our hearts.
August 22
Ezekiel 22:17-31, Ezekiel 23, 2 Kings 24:20, 2 Kings 25:1-2, Jeremiah 52:3-5, Jeremiah 39:1, Ezekiel 24:1-14
Crucible of Faith
Today’s readings from Ezekiel 22-24 immerse us in vivid imagery and parables, illustrating the severe trials and judgments God places upon His people. The concept of the “crucible” captures the essence of these passages, representing both the intense trials faced by Israel and the purification process God desires for His people.
Ezekiel 22: The Worthless Slag
God likens Israel to worthless slag—a mixture of metals such as copper, tin, iron, and lead—that needs to be purified in the furnace of His judgment. This imagery emphasizes how the people’s sins have rendered them impure and in need of refinement.
Reflect on the crucibles in your own life. Are there trials or challenges that God might be using to refine your character? Trust in His purpose, knowing that these experiences can purify and strengthen your faith.
Ezekiel 23: The Adulterous Sisters
Ezekiel 23 uses the allegory of two adulterous sisters, representing Samaria and Jerusalem, to illustrate Israel’s spiritual infidelity. Their pursuit of foreign gods and immoral practices leads to devastating consequences.
The story of the two sisters reminds us of the dangers of turning away from God. Let’s learn from their mistakes, choosing faithfulness and obedience over spiritual adultery.
Ezekiel 24: The Boiling Pot Parable
In Ezekiel 24, God tells Ezekiel to use a parable of a boiling pot, symbolizing Jerusalem’s impending destruction. The rust in the pot represents the people’s sins, which have tainted and defiled them.
Are there areas in your life where sin has taken hold? Confess and seek God’s forgiveness, allowing His refining fire to cleanse and renew your spirit.
Word of the Day: Crucible
Definition: a vessel used for melting substances at high temperatures.
Metaphorically,a crucible represents a severe test or trial where intense forces interact, leading to transformation and development. In Ezekiel 22:20-22, God declares that He will bring Israel into His crucible, melting them in the heat of His fury.
Trials as Crucibles of Growth
The rebellion of Zedekiah and the subsequent siege of Jerusalem serve as a crucible of human pride and defiance against God. These events remind us that trials, whether self-inflicted or beyond our control, can be transformative. They expose our weaknesses, test our faith, and refine our character.
As believers, we are called to approach life’s crucibles with faith, trusting that God will use them to reveal Jesus in us. Let’s draw inspiration from Jesus’ experience in the Garden of Gethsemane, where He faced immense pressure yet chose submission to God’s will.
August 23
Ezekiel 24:15-27, Ezekiel 25, Jeremiah 34, 21, Ezekiel 29:1-16, Ezekiel 30:20-26, Ezekiel 31
The Arm of the Lord
In today’s readings from Ezekiel 24-25 and Jeremiah 34, we witness the power and influence of God’s arm, a symbol of His might and authority. As we explore these chapters, we’ll discover how God’s arm can be both a source of judgment and a beacon of hope.
Ezekiel 24:15-27: Ezekiel’s Personal Crucible
In Ezekiel 24, God tells Ezekiel that his beloved wife will die, yet he must not mourn openly. This symbolizes how the Israelites will not mourn the destruction of the Temple, despite its significance. Ezekiel’s obedience serves as a stark reminder of the people’s impending judgment.
Even in personal trials, we can trust in God’s sovereign plan. Ezekiel’s obedience teaches us to rely on God’s strength, knowing that His arm is mighty and His purposes are just.
Ezekiel 25: Judgment on the Nations
Ezekiel 25 delivers prophecies against the nations surrounding Israel—Ammon, Moab, Edom, and Philistia. These nations rejoiced in Israel’s downfall, prompting God’s judgment against them.
Rejoicing in others’ misfortune invites God’s judgment. Instead, let’s seek humility and compassion, recognizing that God’s arm lifts the humble and opposes the proud.
Jeremiah 34: Zedekiah’s Disobedience
In Jeremiah 34, God warns King Zedekiah of Babylon’s impending victory over Jerusalem. The chapter also condemns Judah for reneging on their promise to free Hebrew slaves, highlighting their disobedience and inviting God’s wrath.
Disobedience to God’s commands leads to consequences. Let’s commit to following His will, trusting in the protection of His mighty arm.
Word of the Day: Arm
Definition: Denotes influence, power, and means of support or conquest.
Throughout the Bible, God’s arm is depicted as a symbol of strength and justice, wielding authority over nations and individuals alike.
The Dual Nature of God’s Arm
In these chapters, we see the dual nature of God’s arm as both a source of strength for His followers and a tool of judgment against His enemies.
- Jeremiah 21:5: God fights against His people with a “strong hand and powerful arm” because of their disobedience.
- Ezekiel 30:22-24: God breaks Pharaoh’s arms but strengthens the arms of Babylon, demonstrating His control over nations.
- Isaiah 33:20: God’s arm offers mercy and strength to those who seek Him.
- Psalm 98:1: God’s right hand and holy arm achieve victory and bring hope.
Choosing the Embrace of God’s Arm
For believers, God’s arm is a source of peace, strength, and protection. Let’s choose to seek His embrace, finding comfort and assurance in His promises, while understanding the seriousness of opposing His mighty power.
