Over the New Year holiday, Dave and I did something we haven’t done in almost 40 years. We entered a jewelry shop “just to look.”

I’m not a big jewelry person. I tend to wear the same simple necklaces and earrings most of the time. On days when I’m not meeting anyone, I don’t wear any jewelry at all—it just doesn’t cross my mind.

For several years, Dave has talked about getting a nice watch. That’s what led us into the jewelry store. I loved watching him zero in on the type and style he liked. With a price range in mind, he found a watch that felt just right.

Then he turned the tables on me.

Would I look at some diamond earrings?

Without even realizing it, I quickly calculated what I’d be willing to spend on myself from my paycheck.

Later, Dave asked if I would let him pay for them. He told me he had always wanted to buy me a pair of diamond earrings. I had no idea how that tender moment would quietly challenge my self-doubt and sense of worth.

What’s Been On My Heart

My coach recently asked me, “As you look ahead to 2026, how are you investing in yourself?”

I quickly answered with topics such as courses, projects, and professional plans. She nodded and said, “Those are great. But how are you taking care of yourself?”

A day or two later, someone else asked me a similar question. Then that same theme showed up in my morning devotions. That’s when I knew God was inviting me to stop, listen, and take action.

As a coach, I ask my clients questions like this all the time. But when the question was turned toward me, it felt uncomfortable. Looking inward—at your thoughts, motivations, and the actions that follow—means you can’t keep dodging what’s really going on in your heart.

Those earrings I mentioned earlier? Accepting the gift wasn’t the hard part. Wearing them regularly—with joy—was. Especially without explaining them away, justifying them, or minimizing their value. It required a mindset shift… one where I allowed myself to believe I was worthy of receiving something beautiful.

So I’ll ask you what God asked me:

What might God be inviting you into in 2026 that refreshes your soul, encourages your heart, and gently transforms your thoughts and actions?

Something for You

This focus on tending our hearts and homes is why I love the work Niccie Kliegl does.

Niccie and I met over ten years ago at a business conference. Our mutual coach told me, “You and Niccie need to connect—you share similar passions.” He was spot on.

Niccie coaches business leaders to God-center their passions and to watch what He does. This month, she invited me to contribute an article to her monthly magazine, As For Me and My House. What an honor.

Each issue includes encouraging, practical articles on six areas: House, Marriage, Finances, Health, Parenting, and Community. I hope you’ll check it out and consider subscribing. Simply click the image below to get this month’s issue.

🙏🏻 A Prayer for You

Dear God, You tell Reader how much you love them. Psalm 26 tells Reader that your unfailing love reaches to the heavens—precious, steady, and overflowing. When the enemy of our souls whispers that Reader is not worthy of goodness, kindness, and honor, remind Reader that you delight in them. That you, Jesus, died to save Reader from all sin so they could be intimately connected to you through faith. Reveal the lies, God, and replace them with the truth from your word, the Bible. Thank you for Reader and bless them today. Amen.