How Removing Hoses from Spigots Helps in Avoiding HOA Fines

To whom much is given, much is required! Luke 12:48

Greetings from the stunning Rocky Mountains of Colorado! I hope everything is going well for you. If not, I pray that God’s grace, mercy, and wisdom illuminate your path as you navigate your spiritual journey.

This is a reminder to remove garden hoses from outside spigots. Failure to do so can lead to plumbing issues, which can be costly to fix. Please go outside and detach the hose from the spigot promptly to avoid unnecessary problems.

Typically, I don’t cover my spigots, but I’ve noticed some neighbors who do. How much effort you put into protecting your spigots from winter freezing is your choice. However, removing the hose is the first step in preventing freezing damage.

Believe it or not, keeping up with your home maintenance can help you avoid violation notices from your Home Owner Association (HOA).

The Blessings of God

From everyone given much, much will be required; and from the one for whom more is provided, all the more they will ask of him. Luke 12:48

Life can get more complicated despite ongoing efforts to simplify it, especially when prayers are answered and blessings multiply. Yet, it is not life’s demands that attract jealous people, but the visible display of blessings that incites envy, since outsiders often neglect to understand seeking inner fulfillment through one’s connection with God is the foundation for achievements. Because ultimately, He is the source and provider of all blessings. Let’s pray!

PRAYER

Lord, guide my steps to maintain your peace in my life. Teach me to be a faithful steward of all you have entrusted to me as you bless me more. Amen

Tough Bosses vs God’s Strength

But the one who does not know and does things deserving punishment will be beaten with few blows. From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked. Luke 12:48

Hello from the breathtaking Colorado Rocky Mountains! It might sound surprising, but I have a habit of praying around the clock! Still, I sometimes find expressing my thoughts in public prayers challenging.

What do I pray for throughout my day?  I lift my children, their fathers, my husband, my in-laws, family, friends, the world’s problems, and even those who may not have always been kind before God. I ask for His protection over my kids and wisdom to fill their hearts. My prayers truly reflect my personal journey and the lessons I’ve learned. 

Last week, I shared about a young woman facing challenges at work. She feels overwhelmed as if she’s the only one dealing with a tough boss. This situation weighs her down, making it hard for her to find peace and hear God amid the chaos. My heart goes out to her for many reasons. Let’s join in prayer together about tough bosses!

PRAYER

Father God, I am grateful for Your endless love surrounding me and Your wonderful creations. With a thankful heart, I pray for those experiencing feelings of defeat under the pressures of a boss.  I submit their struggles before Your Throne of Grace, placing my trust in Your ability to transform their challenges. I also kindly ask that You surround them with Your peace and grant them the strength to overcome any obstacles they encounter. May the Holy Spirit guide them during times of uncertainty, helping them find strength through prayer in their most arduous moments and making them victorious. Amen.

Luke 12:48 – Abundance of Knowledge

But the one who does not know and does things deserving punishment will be beaten with few blows. From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked. Luke 12:48

Sometimes, you have to embody the words you preach! 

Yesterday, I contacted a business regarding an issue with one of their products. In my first call, I spoke with a young Black woman. While she was managing my account, I shared my thoughts concerning the current situation in the U.S. Unfortunately, the call dropped, and I had to contact the company again to resolve the issue. Interestingly,  the second representative I spoke to was a White woman. She started the conversation off on a sour note! Frustrated with her attitude, I requested a transfer, but she told me I had no choice but to continue speaking with her. In response, I said I would hang up and call back. I did just that! On my third call, I talked to another Black woman. I got straight to the point because I didn’t want the call to drop, and while she was assisting me, we discussed something that prompted her to say, “I live in a poor state.” The way she expressed it made me feel she felt trapped.   We managed to resolve the issue, and the call ended with pleasantries and her feeling unheard regarding a personal disappointment.

To my surprise, she called me on her cell phone! I answered. I usually don’t answer calls unless I recognize the number or anticipate a business inquiry. Our conversation was brief, but nothing I said seemed to alleviate the pain she was expressing. Her responses made it evident that she felt isolated in her struggles as if she were the only one experiencing what she was going through.

This morning, I received a message that my Facebook page was scheduled for permanent removal due to trademark violations. A Meta’s customer service representative offered me the option to file a complaint, but I have none—it’s their business and their rules. I chose to move forward calmly. Although I was surprised that the email didn’t specify the content that was being violated, I responded that I respect others’ rights and understand Facebook/Meta must act in their interests. With that said, “Black Women Have It Going On” remains true regardless of the status of a Facebook page. Let’s pray!

PRAYER

Father God, I express my gratitude for the ability to read, understand, and the freedom to articulate my thoughts. I ask that I never intentionally use my blessings to harm others, regardless of whether they deserve such a response. I urge you to visit every workplace and bring forth the spirit of peace, freeing individuals who feel trapped, believing their current position is the ultimate goal. Show them the many opportunities that await. Amen