Summer Surrender: When Life Doesn’t Go As Planned

Summer Surrender: When Life Doesn’t Go as Planned

Summer often arrives with high expectations. We picture vacations, family gatherings, time outdoors, and a slower pace. But life doesn’t always follow our plans. Unexpected expenses, health concerns, canceled trips, or changes at work can quickly shift our focus.

While disappointment is natural, these moments can also remind us that not every detour is a setback.

Learning to Let Go

Most of us enjoy having a plan. It gives us direction and a sense of control. Yet some of life’s greatest lessons come when things unfold differently than we expected.

The Bible reminds us:

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.” — Proverbs 3:5-6

Surrender doesn’t mean giving up. It means trusting God enough to hold our plans with open hands. Sometimes a closed door leads to a better opportunity, even if we don’t see it right away.

Finding Joy in the Present

If your summer hasn’t gone according to plan, don’t let disappointment define the season. There is still beauty to be found in everyday moments—a walk outside, time with loved ones, a quiet morning with Scripture, or the chance to encourage someone else.

“And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.” — Romans 8:28

When we surrender our expectations, we make room for God’s peace. His plans are often different from ours, but they are always guided by His wisdom and love.

As summer continues, embrace the season you’re in. Trust that God is present in both the planned moments and the unexpected ones. Sometimes the greatest blessings are found in the paths we never intended to take.

Here is a wonderful ebook to help you on your surrender journey:

The Healing Power of Surrender: A 30-Day Devotional Journey to Peace and Purpose by Jane “Goldie” Winn
You can download it today for just $9.99 and begin 30 days of transformation and lasting freedom. Click Here to buy The Healing Power of Surrender

Here for you,

Goldie

Freedom Begins Within: Celebrating America’s 250th Birthday

by Jane "Goldie" Winn | Blog

Freedom Begins Within: Celebrating America’s 250th Birthday

By Jane “Goldie” Winn, MSS

This Independence Day is especially meaningful as America celebrates 250 years of freedom. We honor those who fought for the liberties we enjoy and remember that freedom has always come with courage, sacrifice, and hope.

While we celebrate our nation’s independence, many of us are also longing for a different kind of freedom—the freedom to let go of worry, regret, fear, or the need to control every outcome.

The Strength of Surrender

The word surrender can sound like weakness, but it often takes great strength to release what we cannot change.

Surrender isn’t about giving up. It’s about letting go of the burdens that weigh us down so we can move forward with greater peace and purpose. Sometimes the most freeing decision we can make is to stop carrying what was never ours to hold.

When we loosen our grip on yesterday’s mistakes or tomorrow’s uncertainties, we create space for hope, joy, and healing.

A Simple Independence Day Reflection

As you celebrate America’s birthday with family and friends, take a quiet moment to ask yourself:

What burden am I ready to release?
Where could I choose peace instead of worry?
What small step could bring more freedom into my life today?

Real freedom isn’t only something we celebrate as a nation. It’s also something we experience personally when we choose to let go and trust the journey ahead.

This Fourth of July, may America’s 250th birthday inspire not only gratitude for our country’s freedom but also a renewed commitment to finding freedom within.

Here is a wonderful ebook to help you:

The Healing Power of Surrender: A 30-Day Devotional Journey to Peace and Purpose by Jane “Goldie” Winn
You can download it today for just $9.99 and begin 30 days of transformation and lasting freedom. Click Here to buy The Healing Power of Surrender

Here for you,

Goldie

Good Questions

by Jane "Goldie" Winn | Goldie's Nuggets

I know 2021 has been a difficult and sad year for many. There are so many unanswered questions and uncertainty about the future.

But as we lean into the Lord as He lovingly guides us into 2022, perhaps we can reflect on a few heart-provoking questions.

What am I the most grateful for in my life right now?
What is the most valuable lesson I have learned in 2021?
How can I pay it forward to help others who are hurting and needing support and encouragement?

I hope this next year will bring new meaning into your life and that this verse will give you hope:

“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.” (Jeremiah 29:11) NIV

I hope this “golden nugget” encourages you today.

Jane “Goldie” Winn, MSS
Certified Life Coach

More of Goldie’s Nuggets HERE

For an encouraging read, RAINBOW IN THE NIGHT: A JOURNEY OF REDEMPTION, on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, or Kindle.

Click on any of the following links to buy my book; thank you!

Amazon

Amazon Kindle

Barnes & Noble

Tender Feelings

by Jane "Goldie" Winn | Goldie's Nuggets

Are you personally suffering a recent pregnancy loss or know someone who has? During the holiday season the sadness can be overwhelming when it is supposed to be a joyous season. You may have had a recent miscarriage, perhaps you’re hurting after an abortion, or having difficulty getting pregnant.

If you haven’t experienced this type of loss, you may want to be sensitive to someone you know who has and needs extra encouragement and love. All the tender feelings are exacerbated during the holidays especially when families gather together to celebrate. It’s hard to join in when the pain and sorrow is palpable.

Sometimes just acknowledging the loss can be the first step towards healing and letting others share in your grief.

A comforting Scripture to bring some hope: “You are my hiding place; you will protect me from trouble and surround me with songs of deliverance.” Psalm 32:7

I hope this “golden nugget” encourages you today.

Jane “Goldie” Winn, MSS
Certified Life Coach

More of Goldie’s Nuggets HERE

For an encouraging read, RAINBOW IN THE NIGHT: A JOURNEY OF REDEMPTION, on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, or Kindle.

Click on any of the following links to buy my book; thank you!

Amazon

Amazon Kindle

Barnes & Noble

Time to Reset for 2021

by Jane "Goldie" Winn | Goldie's Blog

Goldie’s Life Coach Tips for 2021:

Stay in the gift of present living. This will decrease anxiety and the need to worry. Corrie Ten Boom said it well: “Worry does not empty tomorrow of its sorrow; it empties today of its strength.”
Trust in the Lord’s faithfulness and sovereignty. Don’t focus on circumstances, and keep up the faith! He knows the end from the beginning!
Forgive often and let go of past offenses. Keep short accounts.
Maintain an attitude of gratitude, and remember praise reduces stress.
Stay content. The apostle Paul reminds us that godly contentment is great gain.
Choose “life giving” activities to help offset “life taking” events in your life. Make a list and choose at least one a day to improve your overall sense of well being.
Exercise regularly, enjoy healthy eating (less processed foods, sugar, and lower carbohydrates).
Sleep 7–8 hours a night, and take naps when your body needs them.
Laugh often. Remember, “…he who laughs lasts longest.” (W.E. Nesom). Watching more comedy and less news will greatly improve your mood.
Take up a new hobby, learn an instrument, or take an online class on a subject that interests you.
Practice random acts of kindness. There is always someone who needs encouragement.
Pray often, worship the Lord, stay in fellowship, and study the Bible.
Don’t focus on looking through the rear view mirror at 2020, but instead, have a forward focus for an exciting 2021 with renewed hope!

“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.” Romans 8:28 (NIV)

Remember…God’s got this!

“See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.” Isaiah 43:19 (NIV)

Please feel free to email me at goldalah@icloud.com

I’m here for you and please stay safe.

Jane “Goldie” Winn, MSS

Author of Rainbow in the Night: A Journey of Redemption

janegoldiewinn.com

Click on any of the following links to buy my book; thank you!