reflect

James 1:2-3

Grace and peace be with you right now friend! Oh, September—one of those beautiful in-between months where summer’s warmth still lingers, yet the crispness of fall is slowly making its way into our lives. If you’re anything like me, September has felt like a season of transitions. A moment to pause, breathe, and reflect on what God has been doing in our lives, shaping us from the inside out.

Let’s take a moment to sit down with a cup of coffee (or tea, for my non-coffee friends), and reflect on this month—its lessons, blessings, and even the struggles.

the slow unfolding of grace

First, can we just talk about how God’s grace has been at the forefront this month? Even in the little moments, grace was there. Maybe you felt it when you had an unexpected moment of peace during a chaotic week, or when a friend’s kind words lifted you just when you needed them the most.

September is a reminder that God’s grace is woven through every aspect of our lives. It’s in the beauty of the leaves starting to change colors, symbolizing that even in transition, there’s beauty. As we step into new seasons—whether it’s in our relationships, work, or spiritual journey—God’s grace is always there, unfolding like the autumn leaves.

“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God.” – Ephesians 2:8

the challenges that refine us

Of course, September wasn’t just a highlight reel of picture-perfect moments. Maybe you felt the weight of deadlines, schoolwork or work piling up, relationships being tested, or dreams feeling further away than ever before. We’ve all had those days this month where it seemed like we were carrying the world on our shoulders.

But here’s the beautiful thing: God doesn’t waste a single challenge. The moments that feel the hardest are often the ones where God is refining us the most. Maybe this month you learned how to rely on Him more than ever. Maybe you discovered strength you didn’t even know you had. Or maybe, just maybe, you finally let go of something that was holding you back.

This month, God has been shaping us, molding us into people who reflect His strength and love even when life gets tough.

“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.” – James 1:2-3

growth in the ordinary

One thing I’ve realized this September is that growth doesn’t always look flashy or loud. Sometimes, it’s the quiet moments—waking up for that early morning devotion, spending time in worship when you don’t feel like it, or simply choosing kindness when you could’ve chosen otherwise. These small, seemingly ordinary moments are where God is cultivating growth in us.

September has been a reminder that we don’t need grand gestures to reflect God’s love. It’s in the simple, day-to-day obedience that real transformation happens. Growth can be slow, but it’s steady. Like the seasons changing, it’s a process, but one that’s undeniably beautiful.

what did you learn?

Now, as you look back on your own September, what stands out? Maybe it was a verse that God kept bringing to your attention, or a conversation with a friend that shifted your perspective. Perhaps it was a new worship song that reminded you of His goodness in ways you hadn’t thought of before (shoutout to “Gratitude” by Brandon Lake—that song hits different, right?!).

Take a moment to reflect. Write it down, talk about it with a friend, or just offer it up in prayer. Don’t let September slip away without truly seeing the ways God has been at work in your life.

moving forward into the new season

As September comes to an end and October begins to knock on the door, let’s carry the lessons of this month with us. Let’s remember that God is faithful in every season, even in the transitions. He’s working in the quiet, refining us through challenges, and pouring out His grace in ways we often overlook.

So, take heart. Reflect on the growth, the struggles, and the grace that carried you through. And as we step into a new month, let’s continue to trust the One who holds it all together.

God’s not done with us yet.

“There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.” – Ecclesiastes 3:1

Amen!

in harmony,

nancy

Pulse Check:

Kick off fall by creating a gratitude jar! Write down one thing you’re thankful for from September and drop it in the jar. Do this throughout October and see how God’s grace continues to unfold!