The LORD is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and rich in love. The LORD is good to all; he has compassion on all he has made.

Psalm 145:8-9

The core attributes of God—grace, compassion, patience, and love—are the same attributes that were perfectly revealed in Jesus Christ. Each trait carries its own significance, and when viewed together, they paint a complete picture of God’s goodness that extends universally to each and every one of us.

God’s graciousness demonstrates His unmerited favor and kindness toward us, His compassion reveals His tender concern for our suffering, His slowness to anger highlights His patience and restraint, and His richness in love emphasizes the abundance and reliability of His devotion. While these attributes often contrast with human tendencies, they represent our north star for how to become vessels of His character.

Within our daily lives, we have countless opportunities to embody these divine traits:

• When others are unkind, we can choose to respond with grace.
• When we suffer, we can practice compassion toward ourselves and others in pain.
• When anger rises within us, we can respond with patience, pausing to reflect rather than reacting impulsively.
• When we embrace that we are created in love, that love can flow abundantly through us to everyone we encounter.

When we truly understand that this is our Father’s nature, we come to realize that everything in our lives—both blessings and challenges—flows from His perfect love. With this perspective firmly anchored in our hearts, we learn to reflect these qualities outwardly, becoming living testimonies to the character of God.

Rebecca Simon‘s readers keep coming back. Her best-selling Let Go, Trust God set the tone, and Finding God Every Day: 111 Devotionals For Women Healing Through Faith extends it into a daily practice. If you found something to hold onto in this article, picking up one of her books is the best way to support her work and our small team at Thought Catalog.

Aries

Aries are natural leaders, brimming with energy and enthusiasm. Their proactive nature and desire for constant motion make them excel in fast-paced environments. Aries individuals love to initiate projects and are often seen taking charge of situations. Their competitive spirit and eagerness to face challenges head-on mean they are at their best when they are busy, channeling their boundless energy into productive activities.

Virgo

Virgos are known for their meticulous attention to detail and strong work ethic. They find joy in organization and are driven by a deep sense of duty. Virgos thrive on being busy, especially when it involves solving complex problems or perfecting a task. Their methodical approach and persistent drive make them adept at handling multiple responsibilities simultaneously, often excelling in environments that require precision and efficiency.

Capricorn

Capricorns are the quintessential workaholics of the zodiac. Ambitious and disciplined, they set high standards for themselves and relentlessly pursue their goals. They are not deterred by hard work; in fact, they are motivated by it. Capricorns thrive when busy, seeing it as an opportunity to prove their competence and achieve their aspirations. Their practical and managerial skills make them exceptional at navigating and succeeding in demanding situations.

Gemini

Geminis, with their adaptable and versatile nature, excel in dynamic environments. Their quick thinking and curiosity drive them towards a variety of interests and activities. Geminis thrive on being busy as it satisfies their need for variety and intellectual stimulation. They are at their best when juggling multiple projects, enjoying the excitement and learning that comes from being engaged in diverse endeavors.

These four zodiac signs view a busy lifestyle not just as a necessity but as an environment where they can truly shine. Their inherent traits make them not only cope with but also flourish in situations where others might feel overwhelmed. Whether it’s through leadership, meticulousness, ambition, or adaptability, these signs demonstrate that being busy can be a fulfilling and enjoyable experience when aligned with one’s natural inclinations and passions.

Aries: Impulsive Ventures

Aries, ruled by Mars, exhibits a natural inclination for boldness and adventure. However, this dynamic energy can lead to impulsivity. Arians might find themselves leaping into decisions and actions without fully contemplating the consequences, showcasing their penchant for impulsive ventures.

Taurus: Unyielding Stubbornness

Taureans, grounded and reliable, harbor a tendency towards stubbornness. While their steadfast determination is admirable, it can transform into an inflexible demeanor. Taurus individuals may struggle to adapt to changing circumstances, displaying unyielding stubbornness.

Gemini: Indecisive Duality

Geminis, represented by the twins, embody versatility but may grapple with indecisiveness. The dual nature of their personalities can lead to a constant internal struggle, making it challenging for Geminis to settle on a single choice amid conflicting thoughts.

Cancer: Emotional Turmoil

Cancerians, with their nurturing disposition, sometimes succumb to overemotional responses. Their deep connections can lead to heightened emotional reactions, fostering unnecessary drama or overreactions to situations, revealing an emotional turmoil within.

Leo: Validation-Seeking Behavior

Leos, charismatic and confident, occasionally develop a habit of seeking external validation. Despite their self-assured exterior, Leos may find themselves relying on external approval, momentarily overshadowing their innate confidence.

Virgo: Overthinking the Details

Virgos, known for their analytical minds, fall prey to the habit of overthinking. Their meticulous nature can transform into excessive worry and self-doubt, causing them to get entangled in the details and hindering their peace of mind.

Libra: Confrontation Avoidance

Librans, desiring harmony and balance, sometimes develop a habit of avoiding confrontation. While aiming to maintain peace is admirable, Libras might suppress their true feelings, opting for indirect communication instead of addressing issues head-on.

Scorpio: Intense Jealousy

Scorpios, fueled by passion and intensity, grapple with feelings of jealousy. Their deep emotional investments in relationships can occasionally lead to possessiveness, prompting Scorpios to navigate and manage these intense emotions for healthier connections.

Sagittarius: Restless Wanderlust

Sagittarians, known for their adventurous spirit, may develop a habit of restlessness. Their constant pursuit of new experiences can sometimes lead to a lack of commitment or follow-through, as they seek the next exciting venture.

Capricorn: Relentless Perfectionism

Capricorns, driven by ambition and discipline, can fall into the trap of perfectionism. While their pursuit of excellence is commendable, it may lead to unrealistic expectations and self-imposed pressure, hindering them from enjoying the journey.

Aquarius: Detached Aloofness

Aquarians, valuing independence and innovation, may exhibit a habit of emotional detachment. Their intellectual focus can sometimes make them seem aloof or distant, as they prioritize rationality over emotional expression.

Pisces: Escapist Tendencies

Pisceans, known for their dreamy and imaginative nature, may develop a habit of escapism. When faced with challenges, they might retreat into a world of fantasy or avoid confronting issues directly, choosing to swim in the currents of their dreams.

Understanding these zodiac-based habits provides a window into our behavioral patterns. While astrology offers intriguing insights, it’s crucial to remember that individuality prevails. Self-awareness acts as the guiding star, helping individuals break free from less-than-ideal habits, fostering personal growth, and embracing positive change.

From their knack for making the funniest faces to their spot-on celebrity impressions, Sagittarius is the most humorous when in love. They’ll constantly poke fun at you until you’re annoyed. They don’t see love as something to take seriously, but as something to let it grow via vibrancy and laughter.

Gemini

As one of the more (innocently) mischievous signs, Geminis love to pull pranks on the people they love. Brace yourself if you’re the type to scare easily. If you’re open to embracing their many schemes, they’ll love you even more.

Aries

From playful banter to hilarious nicknames, Aries show their love for you through crude humor. You can tell they’re comfortable around you when they trust that you won’t take anything personally. They love hard, have the most authentic aura, and won’t back down from a good and clean roast.

Leo

A fusion between their fellow fire signs, Leo loves to laugh with you and at you when in love. If they adore you, expect to be the butt of their jokes. You can also count on them to carry out clean humor, as their intentions will never be to hurt anyone’s feelings.

Aquarius

Aquarius loves to be in a relationship that also feels like a friendship. So, prepare for hilarious banter and long-winded text convos. Being in love makes this air sign feel super giddy. So, don’t be surprised if you laugh way more than you should. They’re logical and nerdy, so expect many of their jokes to be incredibly relatable. 

Here’s a look at which popular romance/fantasy trope each birth month would be — 

April: Enemies-to-Lovers

April, the first birth month, is ruled by Mars, the planet of aggression, passion, and conflict. As a result, April is known for their fiery and impulsive nature, always eager to take on new challenges and never shying away from a good fight. This makes them a perfect match for the enemies-to-lovers trope.

The enemies-to-lovers trope typically involves two characters who start off on the wrong foot and can’t stand each other. They may have different goals, values, or beliefs that put them at odds, or they may have a personal history that has created a deep-seated animosity between them. Over time, however, the characters begin to see each other in a new light and gradually fall in love, often through a series of unexpected and challenging events. How delicious! 

Those born in April are perfect for this trope because they thrive on challenge and love to prove themselves as powerful. They are natural competitors and relish the opportunity to show off their strength and skill, even if it means going head-to-head with someone they don’t like. As the tension between the characters builds, April becomes more and more invested in the outcome of the conflict, and they won’t back down until they emerge victorious — or fall in love, in this case.

With that being said, April is also highly passionate and loves to be swept off their feet. They enjoy the thrill of the chase and the excitement of new experiences, making the eventual shift from enemies to lovers all the more exhilarating. As the characters begin to see each other with a newfound understanding, April is ready and willing to embrace the change and take the relationship to the next level.

May: Slow Burn

May natives are the second birth month and is ruled by Venus, the planet of love, beauty, and pleasure. Because of that, May is known for their romantic and sensual nature, always seeking out the finer things in life and enjoying the company of those they love. This makes them a perfect match for the slow burn trope.

The slow burn trope often involves a relationship that develops gradually over time, with the characters taking many sweet, and intentional, moments to get to know each other and build a strong foundation together. This type of relationship is characterized by a gradual build-up of tension and attraction, with the characters’ feelings developing slowly but steadily until they finally reach a boiling point and confess their love for one another.

Those born in May are incredible sign for this trope because they value stability and security in their relationships. They are patient and determined, and never shy away from the time and effort it takes to create a strong and lasting bond with someone they care about. People born in May are not interested in rushing into things or taking shortcuts — they prefer to take their time and savor the journey, enjoying each moment as it comes. They may be slow, but gosh, are they sweet.

On the other hand, May is highly sensual and enjoys the physical aspects of a relationship. They appreciate the beauty and pleasure of intimate moments, making the gradual build-up of tension a particularly appealing part of the slow burn trope. May-born individuals are in no rush to jump into bed with someone, and they prefer to let the attraction simmer and grow over time, building up to a passionate and fulfilling connection when a declaration of love is made.

June: Love Triangle

Those with June birthdays are the third birth month and is ruled by Mercury, the planet of communication, intelligence, and adaptability. Therefore, it goes without saying that those born in June are known for their quick wit, charm, and ability to connect with others on multiple levels. This makes them a perfect match for the love triangle trope.

The love triangle trope typically involves a character who is torn between two potential love interests, each with their own unique appeal and set of pros and cons. The character must navigate their feelings for both individuals and make a difficult choice about who they want to be with in the end. How dramatic!

Those born in June are well-suited to this trope because of their adaptability and capacity to connect with multiple people on an intellectual and emotional level. They are skilled when it comes to expression and can easily find common ground with others, making them appealing to a wide range of individuals. This can lead to situations where those born in June are pursued by multiple potential love interests, each with their own unique personality and charm.

At the same time, June is known for their indecisiveness and tendency to waver in their opinions and decisions. They may find themselves torn between two people, struggling to make a choice about who they want to be with in the end. This can create a sense of tension and drama as the characters vie for those born in June’s affection, each hoping to be the one chosen in the end.

July: Friends-to-Lovers

July natives are the fourth birth month and is ruled by the Moon, the planet of emotions, intuition, and nurturing. Watery those born in July are known for their sensitivity, empathy, and deep emotional connections. This makes them a perfect match for the friends-to-lovers trope.

The friends-to-lovers trope deliciously involves two characters who start off as close friends, sharing a deep bond of trust and understanding between themselves. Over time, their feelings for each other begin to shift and they realize that they have developed romantic feelings for one another. This shift in their relationship can be gradual or sudden, but it often requires a certain level of emotional vulnerability and honesty. We’re not crying, you’re crying.

People born in July are perfect for this trope because of their vast emotional depth and their ability to form strong, nurturing relationships with the people they choose to invest their hearts in. They are known for their empathy and sensitivity, making them excellent at understanding the needs and feelings of others. Those born in July often form close bonds with their friends, valuing the trust and understanding that they share, and creating a safe place for partnerships to grow and for bonds to deepen. 

At the same time, July is highly romantic and values emotional connection in their relationships. They may find themselves developing romantic feelings for a close friend over time, as they become more aware of the depth of their beautifully rare and rooted connection. This can create a sense of tension and uncertainty as they navigate their changing feelings and try to determine the best way to move forward.

August: Royalty and Nobility

August-born individuals are the fifth birth month and is ruled by the Sun, the planet of vitality, creativity, and leadership. It is well known that those born in August are admired for their confidence, charisma, and natural leadership abilities. This makes them a perfect match for the royalty and nobility trope.

The royalty and nobility trope traditionally involves characters who are members of a royal or noble family, possessing a certain level of wealth, power, and privilege. These characters may be tasked with maintaining their family’s legacy and reputation, as well as navigating the challenges and responsibilities that come with their position in society. Talk about a scandal! 

Those born in August are great match for this trope because of their natural leadership abilities and their desire for recognition and respects. They thrive in situations where they can showcase their talents and abilities, and revel in the spotlight. August also values luxury and prestige, making them a good fit for a story that involves characters who are members of a royal or noble family.

With that being said, those born in August may struggle with the expectations and responsibilities that come with their position of power. They may feel pressure to maintain a certain image or to live up to the expectations of others, which can create a sense of tension and conflict within the story. August native’s natural charisma and confidence can help them navigate these challenges, but they may need to learn to balance their desire for recognition with their responsibilities to others. 

September: Secret Identity

Those with September birthdays are the sixth birth month and is ruled by Mercury, the planet of communication, intelligence, and adaptability. Steadfast and reliable those born in September are known for their analytical thinking, attention to detail, and ability to keep secrets. This makes them a perfect match for the secret identity trope.

The secret identity trope typically involves a character who has a hidden persona or life that they keep separate from their public identity. This hidden identity may be a superhero alter ego, a spy, or some other type of secret life that the character must balance with their public persona. The character may struggle with keeping their identity hidden from those they care about, while also maintaining their responsibilities in their public life.

Those born in September are perfect for this trope because of their attention to detail and ability to keep secrets. They are skilled at analyzing situations and coming up with solutions, which can be helpful in maintaining a hidden identity. September natives are also known for their practicality and efficiency, which can help them balance their responsibilities in their public and private lives. 

However, those born in September may struggle with the emotional toll that keeping a secret identity can have on one’s heart and mind. They may feel isolated or disconnected from those around them, as they are unable to share the truth about who they actually are, deep down. This can create a sense of tension and conflict within the story, as the character must navigate their incompatible desires to keep their secret identity hidden while also seeking connection with others.

October: Forbidden Love

People born in October are the seventh birth month and is ruled by Venus, the planet of love, beauty, and pleasure. It is well known that those born in October are recognized for their love of beauty and their desire for harmony and balance in their relationships. This makes them a perfect match for the forbidden love trope.

The forbidden love trope typically involves a romance between two characters who are prohibited from being together by some external force, such as societal expectations, family obligations, or some other type of obstacle. The characters may struggle with their feelings for each other, knowing that their love is outlawed, and may face significant challenges in pursuing their connection with one another. Romeo and Juliet, anyone?

Those born in October are incredible representation of this trope due to their love of harmony and balance in their relationshipses. They may be drawn to the idea of a forbidden love, seeing it as a way to break free from societal expectations or to challenge the status quo. October-born individuals are also known for their sense of fairness and justice, which can make them passionate advocates for love and equality. They don’t ever want to hold their heart back. 

At the same time, those born in October may struggle with the conflicting desires to follow their heart and to maintain harmony in their relationships. They may be torn between their feelings for their partner and the external forces that are keeping them from being together, creating a sense of tension and conflict within the story. October native’s desire for balance and harmony can also make them sensitive to the needs and expectations of others, which may create further challenges in pursuing their forbidden love.

November: Soulmates

Those with November birthdays are the eighth birth month and is ruled by Pluto, the planet of transformation, power, and regeneration. Secretive and mystical those born in November are known for their intensity, passion, and deep connections with others. This makes them a perfect match for the soulmates trope.

The soulmates trope typically involves two characters who are destined to be together, often with a strong, almost spiritual connection between them. They may feel an immediate and intense attraction to each other, and may experience a sense of recognition or familiarity that goes beyond what can be explained by physical attraction alone. The characters may struggle to find each other, or to stay together in the face of obstacles, but their connection remains strong and unbreakable. They are the definition of twin flames.

Those born in November are perfect for this trope because of their intense nature and their ability to form deep, transformative connections with others. They are known for their passion and their ability to sense the hidden motives and desires of those around them, which can make them skilled at identifying their soulmate. November natives are also known for their loyalty and their willingness to stand by those they love, which can make them ideal partners for a karmic relationship.

However, those born in November may struggle with their own intense emotions and the unrelenting power of their soulmate relationship. They may experience significant personal growth and change as a result of their connection with their soulmate, which can be challenging and even frightening. November native’s desire for power and control can also create tension within the soulmate relationship, as they may struggle with relinquishing that control to their partner, and softening their defenses for love. 

December: Time Travel

People born in December are the ninth birth month and is ruled by Jupiter, the planet of expansion, adventure, and higher learning. It goes without saying that those born in December are known for their love of travel, exploration, and seeking out new experiences. This makes them a perfect match for the time travel trope.

The time travel trope involves a character or characters who travel through time to another era, either by accident or by design. The characters may face challenges in navigating the different time periods and may struggle to maintain the balance of the space-time continuum. They may also experience culture shock as they encounter different societal norms and ways of living. Back to the future, anyone?

December-born individuals are well-suited to this trope because of their love of adventure and exploration. They may be drawn to the idea of moving through time, seeing it as a way to experience different eras and cultures firsthand. Those with December birthdays are also known for their optimism and sense of humor, which can help them navigate the challenges of time travel with a sense of adventure and fun. They are one of the only birth months who wouldn’t crumble under the stress of being in an unknown environment. 

With that being said, those born in December may struggle with the consequences of their time travel. They may be faced with difficult decisions about whether to change the course of history or to maintain the status quo. December native’s love of freedom and independence can also create tension within the story, as they may struggle with being confined to a particular time period or place.

January: Billionaire Romance

Those born in January are the tenth birth month and is ruled by Saturn, the planet of discipline, hard work, and achievement. Hard-working and loyal January natives are known for their ambition, and their unyielding drive to succeed. This makes them a perfect match for the billionaire romance trope.

The billionaire romance trope typically involves a wealthy, powerful character who falls in love with a human being from a more humble background. The characters may struggle to bridge the gap between their different social statuses, and may experience tension and conflict as a result of their differing backgrounds and values. Think — Richard Gere and Julia Roberts in Pretty Woman! 

January natives are perfect for this trope because of their goal-oriented nature and their obsession with success. They may be drawn to the idea of a billionaire romance as a way to explore themes of luxury and achievement, and to examine the tension that can exist between those who have achieved great wealth and power and those who have not. People born in January are also known for their sense of responsibility and their willingness to work hard and make sacrifices in pursuit of their goals.

At the same time, those born in January may struggle with the power dynamics that come with a billionaire romance. They may be wary of the potential for manipulation or exploitation, and may be cautious about entering into a relationship where one partner has significantly more wealth and power than the other. January native’s practicality and caution can also create tension within the story, as they may be hesitant to take risks or make decisions that could put their stability at risk.

February: Supernatural Romance

February-born individuals are the eleventh birth month and is ruled by Uranus, the planet of innovation, revolution, and unpredictability. Therefore, February is known for their open-mindedness, curiosity, and willingness to explore new ideas and perspectives. This makes them a perfect match for the supernatural romance trope.

The supernatural romance trope often involves characters with supernatural abilities or characteristics, such as vampires, werewolves, witches, or ghosts. These characters may struggle to navigate the human world and may experience tension and conflict as a result of their unrelenting differences. They may also grapple with questions of morality and identity as they struggle to find a place in a world that does not fully understand them. 

Those with February birthdays are well-suited to this trope because of their open-mindedness and willingness to embrace new ideas and perspectives. They may be drawn to the idea of a supernatural romance as a way to explore themes of identity, difference, and acceptance. Those born in February are also known for their independence and nonconformity, which can make them more accepting of those who are different from them. How sweet! 

However, those born in February may struggle with the challenges of a mystical connection. They may find themselves grappling with questions of morality and identity as they navigate the tensions between the human and supernatural worlds. February native’s individuality and nonconformity can also create tension within the story, as they may struggle to find balance in a world that is not fully accepting of those they may love.

March: Fairy Tale Retelling

March natives are the twelfth birth month and is ruled by Neptune, the planet of dreams, imagination, and creativity. Because of that, March is known for their creative and imaginative nature, as well as their love of fantasy and magic. This makes them a perfect match for the fairy tale retelling trope.

The fairy tale retelling trope typically involves a retelling or re-imagining of a classic fairy tale, with new twists and elements added to the original story. The characters may be reconceptualized or reinvented, and the story may be updated or changed to reflect modern sensibilities or to add new themes and ideas. The resulting story may be both familiar and new, with elements of the original tale blended with new and imaginative ideas.

People born in March are perfect for this trope because of their innovative and dreamlike nature. They may be drawn to the idea of a fairy tale retelling as a way to explore themes of fantasy, magic, and imagination, and to create their own unique version of a classic story. March-born individuals are also known for their sensitivity and empathy, which can make them more attuned to the emotional and romantic elements of the fairy tale retelling trope.

With that being said, those born in March may struggle with the challenges of a fairy tale retelling. They may find themselves grappling with questions of authenticity and creativity as they navigate the tension between staying true to the original story and creating something new and unique. March native’s sensitivity and empathy can also create tension within the story, as they may be more focused on the emotional and romantic elements of the love story than on reality at hand. They will always have one foot in the fairytale, and one foot searching for solid ground, trying to make sense of their connection.

Aries can’t hold a grudge if they tried. The fire sign likes to live in the fast lane and doesn’t have time to think about the past. To them, it’s a timewaster and they know there are other things to invest their energy in than a grudge. They like to live in the present and can’t see any good in reliving what they’d rather forget.

2.      Libra

Like Aries, Libras don’t invest their time holding a grudge. They’re pretty forgiving people and will likely give you a second chance than other zodiac signs. But don’t take them as a pushover because they also don’t like making the same mistake twice. They’ll let you go and cut off any contact when they’ve had enough. But don’t be surprised years after they greet you with a friendly hello; they’re the peacemakers after all.

3.      Leo

Though Leo is the one on this list that could hold a grudge the longest, they can also ice you out completely and cut off all contact. When you’ve hurt them enough, they won’t hold a grudge but rather forget you in the long run. Leos have bright personalities and can’t let hatred fester inside.

4.      Sagittarius

Sagittarius doesn’t like to stay stuck in one place, physically and mentally. They know it stunts their progress and holds them back from experiencing new things in life. They’re also a philosophical bunch, so they can usually tell the difference between what’s meant to be and what’s not. They’re aware of who’s hurt them, but they don’t let it affect their everyday.

5.      Gemini

Like Sagittarius, Geminis rarely hold a grudge. They don’t see the point in it and know they’d set themselves back if they didn’t let it go. They also know there are far more things to invest their energy in than a grudge. They live in the present as much as they can and won’t let someone’s wrongdoing affect the way they live their life. 

A Leo’s love is warm, endearing and hard to forget. They wear their heart on their sleeve and aren’t the type to be taken for granted. When they love you, they give their all. But if not reciprocated, they know when to let go and walk away. Eventually, they’ll stop putting in the effort, leaving their former flames missing the way things used to be.

2. Capricorn

Capricorns are some of the best partners to have. When they love you, there is nothing they won’t do for you. From cooking you soup to carrying every bag, they are relentless with their love, and you will feel every ounce of it. But if taken for granted, they won’t hesitate to dial down their acts of service. They’ll let the relationship go and leave their former partners missing all the ways they cared.

3. Taurus

A Taurus’ love comes naturally. It’s dependable, trustworthy and something to look forward to. They take relationships seriously and stay in it for as long as possible when they commit to you. But if the romance starts to feel one-sided, they’d rather be single than settle for less. They aren’t ones to be strung along; eventually, they’ll grow distant and leave their past partners missing the good times.

4. Scorpio

Scorpios give their all in every relationship they’re in. Whether it’s planning countless surprise parties or remembering every special occasion, their love is one of a kind. But once they feel taken advantage of, they’ll let the connection go. Their former flames will find it hard to forget them, as they’ll reminisce on how much someone once loved them so much.

5. Cancer

Cancers are incredibly nurturing people. They have a big heart and will always find a way to make sure you’re taken care of. When they love you, they make you a priority. Whether it means staying late to talk or being there for you, the sign’s love should not be felt lightly. But if their efforts aren’t returned, they won’t tolerate it. After they leave, their former partners may realize how much of a good thing they let go and regret it in the long run. 

Some blessings take longer because they require more shaping first. More trust. More healing. More readiness than you can yet see from where you stand.

So if something in your life feels delayed right now, let this be your reminder: waiting is not wasted when God is in it. Sometimes the holiest thing you can do is trust that what has not yet opened is still being aligned.

God,

You know the places in my life that feel stagnant – the hope within that is waiting for affirmation, the doors that haven’t opened, the prayers that seem unanswered. I bring all of it to you today in quiet surrender. You see what I can’t, you know what I’m not yet ready for, and your timing holds a wisdom far greater than my own.

If something has been delayed, let it be because you are shaping me for it. If a door has stayed shut, let it be because it was never meant to lead me where you are taking me. And if something is still being prepared on my behalf, help me trust that the wait is part of the blessing.

Steady my heart, God. Guard me from discouragement and from the stories my mind creates when things take longer than I hoped.

Give me discernment for what to release, courage for what to keep pursuing, and faith to believe that nothing meant for me is slipping away.

When the time is right, unlock what has been held back. Let it unfold with clarity, ease, and peace – not through striving, but through alignment with your will. And when it comes, let my heart recognize it as your grace, not my effort.

Amen.

Knox and Vivienne were photographed this weekend at the Last Bookstore in Los Angeles. Knox, 17, showed up with a fresh bruise near one eye and a head of bright orange hair he debuted over Memorial Day weekend. He left with a 1970 first edition of E.B. White’s ‘The Trumpet of the Swan.’

Vivienne walked the aisles with him, wearing baggy pants streaked with paint stains.

Knox was wearing an Anti Social Social Club x Cinnamoroll hoodie in lavender, with the Sanrio puppy stamped on the chest. The bright orange hair he debuted leaving a Muay Thai class on May 26 is still holding.

The bruise on his face is from the same gym. Recent paparazzi shots have documented cuts and marks from his sparring sessions, which friends say he’s been taking seriously.

Knox was named after Brad Pitt’s grandfather. Vivienne was named after Angelina Jolie’s late mother, Marcheline Bertrand.

Relationships can be so messy and complicated sometimes, and it’s okay to admit that we don’t always get things right. Just remember that we don’t have to figure out how to love perfectly on our own; we can lean on God to help us see the person we love with a bit more patience and care. Let’s seek His guidance with this prayer.

Dear God,

Thank you for your perfect love for me. Even when I’m not deserving, you extend unconditional love that forms the foundation of my faith. I come to you today acknowledging where my love for others falls short—when my expectations become unreasonable, my anger gets the best of me, or envy creeps into my heart. Help me grow in all aspects of love as described by you. Transform my perspective so I can see others through your eyes. Strengthen me to practice love not merely as a feeling but as deliberate action. Thank you for blessing me with relationships where I experience love, and for the daily opportunity to love others more authentically.

Amen.

This piece was written by Rebecca Simon. Her newest release, Finding God Every Day: 111 Devotionals For Women Healing Through Faith, gives you 111 daily reflections like this one. Her best-seller, Let Go, Trust God, has helped thousands lean into the same truths. Grabbing a copy keeps her writing going and helps Thought Catalog keep publishing it.