Week 438

Positive Post Sunday, July 20, 2025…. Week 438.  During this past week, I continued to reflect on the books I’ve recently read and written about (see PPS weeks 431, 435 and 437).  Specifically, I’ve prayed deeply and initiated a conversation with God to explore, define and better understand the gifts he has given me so I may use them to multiply my impact on His kingdom.

To engage our Lord in conversation, some may go to church, others may prefer quiet spaces at home or in nature and still others may talk with Him throughout their daily lives.  Although, I have leveraged all these opportunities to deepen my relationship with God, I have done some of my best thinking and listening while riding my bike, especially when riding solo in the early morning.  Below is a recent example.

A Conversation with God on Two Wheels!

As I have done for many weeks, on Saturday morning at sunrise, I left my house and pedaled down the street to begin my morning warmup “Boot Ride” (see photo) before meeting up with my cycling buddies for our traditional “Bagel Ride”. 

This early morning ride was different and special!  With a clear and open mind, and following a week of reflection and prayer, I felt an inner peace and the presence of God as I shifted gears and settled into my ride.  On this brisk morning, before the heat, I felt the breeze brush past my helmet, like God whispering something just for me. It wasn’t a booming voice, but a deep inner stirring, an invitation for a conversation.  So, I engaged, “Lord,” I said in rhythm with my breaths and pedaling, “Help me see the gifts You’ve placed in me.  How can I best use them to serve You and build Your kingdom?”

As a distinct and calming warmth came over me, I could feel His presence.  With each turn of the wheel, He answered gently, not so much in words, but in glimpses.  With vivid clarity, I began to reflect on my own questions, seeking an understanding of the gifts He has entrusted in me.  I was reminded of the quiet joy of serving unnoticed and the gifts of writing, coaching and mentoring, supporting others during times of need, and supporting and leading faith and community based nonprofit organizations.  

As I was winding down my ride, two Bible verses echoed in my heart:

“…As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” — Joshua 24:15

“As each one has received a gift, use it to serve one another as good stewards of God’s varied grace.” — 1 Peter 4:10

These verses gripped me, not with weight, but purpose. I wasn’t just riding through the natural beauty of God’s creation; I was riding toward my mission. The invitation wasn’t just to recognize my gifts, but to spend them freely, in ways that point back to Him.

As I finished my ride and waited for my cycling buddies to arrive, I asked myself, “Were those my thoughts and reflection, or did I just have a conversation with God?!

How and where do you have conversations with God?

What gifts has He entrusted in you and how are you using them to build His kingdom?