The Simple Things That Keep Us Grounded

Monday Morning Devotional

Over the weekend, while out of town, we decided to spend some time shopping at a few of our favorite stores. As usual, I found myself drawn to what many would consider the simple things in life—candles, journals, sticky notes, and a new planner.

I have to admit, this has been a weakness of mine for years. Thankfully, I’m doing much better than I used to. There was a time when my weakness was shoes and purses, but journals, notebooks, and planners have always had a special place in my heart. Over the years, I’ve probably collected well over two hundred of them!

Every time I see a beautiful journal, I have an internal conversation with myself. One voice says, “You don’t need another one.” The other says, “But look how beautiful it is! Read the quote. Look at the colors!” Before I know it, it’s headed home with me.

This time was no different.

Yet this purchase felt different because we’re no longer at the beginning of the year—we’re standing at the halfway point. Instead of looking at what I haven’t accomplished, I saw these simple items as an invitation to pause, reflect, and prepare for the next six months. It’s a reminder to review my goals, make adjustments where needed, and continue walking faithfully in the vision God has entrusted to me.

My new planner is beautifully covered with Jeremiah 29:11:

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” (NIV)

What a reminder that even when our plans change, God’s plans never do.

My new journal simply says, “Bloom. Grow. Flourish.”

Isn’t that what we all desire?

To bloom where God has planted us.

To grow through every season—both the easy and the difficult.

To flourish in His purpose until our lives produce fruit that glorifies Him.

Then there were the magnetic sticky notes that immediately caught my attention because they read:

“With God all things are possible.” (Matthew 19:26)

Sometimes all it takes is a simple reminder placed where we can see it every day to strengthen our faith when life becomes overwhelming.

As I looked around my home, my eyes rested on a small sign sitting on my mantle. A close friend gave it to me several months ago. I remember posting that I had to find the perfect place for it because I wanted to see it often.

It simply says:

“He has a plan. Trust Him.”

As if that wasn’t enough, while shopping I found two candles that seemed to be calling my name. One says “Faith, Hope, Love,” and the other says “Bloom with Grace.”

At that moment, I realized something.

These weren’t just decorations.

They reflected the life I’m intentionally striving to live—a life of simplicity, faith, hope, love, purpose, and grace. A life that values the little reminders of God’s presence just as much as the big moments of answered prayer.

Sometimes God speaks through the simple things.

A scripture on a planner.

A phrase on a journal.

A sticky note with a promise.

A gift from a friend.

A candle with a meaningful message.

These little reminders quietly point our hearts back to the One who is ordering our steps.

As we begin this next half of the year, don’t focus on what didn’t happen over the last six months. Instead, take time to reflect, refocus, and realign yourself with God’s purpose. Review your goals. Write the vision again if necessary. Trust His timing. Finish strong.

Remember, God still has a plan for your life.

May you continue to Bloom. Grow. Flourish.

Have a blessed week as you embrace the next six months with renewed faith, divine purpose, and the confidence to finish everything God has entrusted into your hands.

“Commit your works to the Lord, and your plans will be established.” — Proverbs 16:3 (ESV)

Blessings,

Onetia Cutts

Renewed Destiny Ministries

Renewed. Refreshed. Restored.