This week is brought to you by the letter N, and the word nauseous. Is that not a crazy word for this week? Who in the world would choose that term?

Most of us would prefer NOT to have that overwhelming sensation of… “uh-oh, something is not right. I am not feeling well.” That awareness of repulsion or disgust leading to... nausea 🤢 The worst. 

Unless... you're pregnant.

In the first trimester, moms welcome the experience (welcome may be too strong a word). As someone who has had a miscarriage, sickness is usually a sign of viability. It's a signal that life is still in motion. Consequently, a woman will bear the symptoms of queasiness because transformation is transpiring.

Imagine these other scenarios. The butterflies you get when interviewing for a job. The stomach drop you get on a roller coaster incline. The nerves you feel when you're hitting submit on a big project. The nausea you endure when you're expecting.  

Are YOU waiting expectantly? In your gut, are you praying for a shift, a solution, or a resolution? Do you need God to show up or show out? Many desires and dreams trigger anxious emotions. But I believe our unease is an indication of being on the edge of transformation.

[So then, since we have a great High Priest who has entered heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to what we believe. This High Priest of ours understands our weaknesses, for he faced all of the same testings we do, yet he did not sin. So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive his mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most.]
Hebrews 4v14-16

The antithesis of sensation is numbness — unable to think, feel, or respond normally. I don't know about you, but I'm acquainted with both — nausea and numbness. A longing for what lies ahead versus a lack of... anything. Let's trust that the uneasiness signals we're still receptive.

The stirring within our anticipation is evidence we're... well... expecting. Filled with some semblance of hope and faith for something to be born. In turn, that means our hearts and minds are responsive to the nauseous sensation we may be feeling when we approach the throne of grace. It is not weakness to wait with a little nervousness before our Savior.

Hold onto truth. Draw close with confidence. Trust the gift of grace. Something big is about to be born! 

Send this to someone who feels a little off as they wait with expectation.

grateful —