Finding My Peace Through Faith

Rediscovering Jesus

The past decade has been a rollercoaster ride filled with so much turmoil. I did a lot of soul searching and took several leaps of faith.

I lost a lot but gained so much more.

There were times of great joy and some of the lowest moments in my life. 

During this bumpy ride, I took steps to start living my best life. I Simplified My Life by decluttering my stuff, relationships and time. I found my passion and started new hobbies. It wasn't until recently I realized, during all these steps I had been missing the most important step to a better life. 

The day I headed out West. 

Building a Relationship with God

Rediscovering Jesus and building a relationship with God lead me to an inner peace. I have learned the power of forgiveness and letting go. 

The power of forgiving myself for my choices and the power to forgive those who betrayed me. I don't worry about the stories told about me and what others think of me because in the end only God matters. 

In a world filled with chaos, uncertainty, and constant change, finding peace seems like an elusive dream. Many of us search for tranquility and a sense of purpose in various ways, but often, the answer lies closer than we think.

Rediscovering Jesus and fostering a relationship with God can bring profound peace and transform your life in remarkable ways.

Tammy filled with peace. 

Rediscovering Jesus

For those of us who grew up in a Christian environment or have been exposed to the teachings of Jesus, it's not uncommon to drift away or lose sight of our faith amidst the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Taking steps to reconnect with Jesus can be a life-changing decision.

God's beautiful flowers. 

Reflect on Your Journey

Spend time reflecting on your spiritual journey. Consider the moments when you felt closest to Jesus and the factors that contributed to that connection. Reflect on what caused the distance in your relationship with Him. This self-awareness is the first step towards rekindling your faith.

Engage with Scripture

The Bible is a powerful tool for understanding the teachings of Jesus and God's plan for us. Make it a habit to read the Bible regularly. Start with the Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John) to revisit the life and teachings of Jesus. Allow His words to guide and inspire you.

Prayer and Meditation

Prayer is a direct line of communication with God. Set aside time each day to pray and meditate. Share your thoughts, concerns, and gratitude with Him. Through prayer, you can develop a deeper, more personal relationship with God and feel His presence in your life.

Building a Relationship with God

A strong relationship with God is the cornerstone of a peaceful and fulfilling life. Here’s how nurturing this relationship can positively impact your life:

Inner Peace

One of the most profound benefits of a relationship with God is the inner peace that comes with it. Trusting in God's plan and knowing that He is in control can alleviate anxiety and stress. This peace transcends understanding and remains steadfast even in the face of life's challenges.

Guidance and Purpose

When you build a relationship with God, you gain a sense of purpose and direction. God has a unique plan for each of us, and through prayer and reflection, you can discern His will for your life. This guidance helps you make decisions aligned with your true calling and values.

Community and Support

Being part of a faith community can provide immense support and encouragement. Surrounding yourself with like-minded individuals who share your beliefs can strengthen your faith and provide a network of love and support. Engaging in fellowship activities, attending church, and participating in Bible studies can enrich your spiritual journey.

Forgiveness and Redemption

Understanding God's grace and forgiveness is a transformative experience. No matter your past mistakes or shortcomings, God’s love and mercy are always available. Embracing this forgiveness allows you to let go of guilt and shame, paving the way for healing and growth.

Living a Better Life

A life anchored in faith and a relationship with God is inherently richer and more fulfilling. Here are some practical ways to integrate your faith into everyday life:

Acts of Kindness and Service

Living out the teachings of Jesus through acts of kindness and service to others brings immense joy and fulfillment. Whether it’s volunteering, helping a neighbor, or simply showing compassion, these acts reflect God's love and make the world a better place.

Gratitude and Mindfulness

Cultivating a mindset of gratitude and mindfulness can transform your perspective. Regularly thank God for His blessings and be mindful of His presence in your daily life. This practice fosters contentment and joy.

Healthy Habits

Embrace habits that nurture both your body and soul. Exercise, eat healthly, get enough rest, and spend time in nature. These practices honor the body God has given you and enhance your overall well-being.

Seek Wisdom

Continually seek wisdom through prayer, scripture, and the counsel of trusted spiritual mentors. This wisdom will guide you through life’s complexities and help you grow in your faith.

Jeep Door Hinge Problems

How to Extend the Life of Jeep Wrangler Door Hinges (JK & JKU)

Jeep door hinge problems are more than cosmetic—they can turn removable doors into stuck, squealing, or completely unusable hardware. If you own a Jeep Wrangler, this is a known issue, and I learned it the hard way when corrosion eventually made one of my doors impossible to use.

Let’s break down why Jeep door hinges fail, how to fix them, and what you can do to prevent it from happening again.

The corroded aluminum sleeve

Quick Answer 

Why do Jeep door hinges corrode?
Jeep door hinges corrode due to galvanic corrosion between the aluminum bushing sleeve and steel hinge pin, especially when exposed to water, road salt, or moisture.

My Jeep's corroded Door Hinge

Why Jeep Door Hinges Fail

Galvanic Corrosion (The Main Culprit)

From the factory, Jeep door hinges use:

• Aluminum bushing sleeves

• Steel hinge pins

When two different metals touch in the presence of moisture (rain, mud, salt), an electrochemical reaction occurs. The aluminum acts as the sacrificial metal and corrodes first.

Result:

• Aluminum sleeves swell and deteriorate

• Hinges seize

• Doors become difficult—or impossible—to open and close

This is extremely common in off-road, winter, and coastal environments. 

Jeep's corroded aluminum sleeves

Wear and Friction Over Time

Aluminum is much softer than steel. With repeated door use:

• The aluminum bushing wears down faster

• Excess play develops in the hinge

• Door alignment can suffer

Once corrosion starts, friction increases dramatically—accelerating failure.

This exact scenario happened to me, and eventually I couldn’t use my door at all.

The Long-Term Fix: Aftermarket Hinge Sleeves

Why I Chose Kentrol Door Hinge Liners

To permanently solve the issue, I removed the corroded aluminum sleeves and installed Kentrol Door Hinge Liners.

These liners are made from Black Delrin (acetal)—an engineering-grade plastic.

Why Delrin Works Better:

• Extremely low friction

• High strength and dimensional stability

• Resistant to corrosion and swelling

• Doesn’t react with steel

• Easy installation

In many automotive applications, Delrin outperforms metal and this is one of them.

Derlin Jeep door hinge sleeves

Preventative Maintenance Tips

Even if you haven’t experienced hinge problems yet, prevention is key.

1. Inspect Regularly

• Check for white oxidation or swelling

• Look for stiffness or squeaking

• Inspect after winter or muddy trail runs

Jeep door hinge pin

2. Use the Right Grease

To protect aluminum bushings (or aftermarket sleeves), use a grease that prevents corrosion and reduces friction.

Best Options:

• Marine Grease – Best for wet or salty environments

• Lithium Grease – Good all-purpose automotive option

• Anti-Seize Lubricant – Ideal for mixed-metal contact

• Dielectric Grease – Prevents moisture intrusion

• Graphite Grease – High-temp, low-friction protection

3. Apply Grease Correctly

1. Clean hinges thoroughly

2. Remove rust, corrosion, and old grease

3. Apply grease generously to hinge pins and sleeves

4. Reapply periodically—especially after winter or water crossings

FAQs 

Why are Jeep Wrangler door hinges so hard to open?

Jeep door hinges become difficult to open due to galvanic corrosion between aluminum bushings and steel hinge pins, causing the sleeves to swell and seize.

Can corroded Jeep door hinges be fixed?

Yes. Corroded hinges can be fixed by removing the damaged aluminum sleeves and replacing them with Delrin or composite hinge liners, then properly lubricating the hinge pins.

How do I prevent Jeep door hinge corrosion?

Prevent corrosion by regularly cleaning hinges, applying corrosion-resistant grease, and upgrading to non-metal hinge liners designed to eliminate galvanic reaction.

Jeep Lockable Storage Ideas

Safeguard Your Valuable Gear with Tuffy Products

There’s nothing like cruising in your Jeep top off, doors off, sun out. But let’s be honest: that freedom can come with anxiety when it’s time to park and your valuables are sitting out in the open.

That’s where lockable Jeep storage becomes essential. After years of running topless and testing aftermarket accessories, I’ve found that Tuffy Products offers some of the most durable, trail-proven security solutions for Jeep owners who want peace of mind without sacrificing functionality or style.

Quick Answer

What’s the best way to secure valuables in a Jeep?
The safest way to protect valuables in a Jeep especially when running topless is to install vehicle-mounted, lockable steel storage such as center console safes, tailgate lockboxes, or cargo enclosures designed specifically for your Jeep model.

In-Floor Locking Cubby Cover

This is one of the simplest security upgrades you can make.

Why it works:

• Replaces the factory cubby cover

• No drilling required

• Uses Tuffy’s Pry-Guard locking system

• Double-bitted security lock

• Weather-sealed design

• Secures the factory jack underneath

Compatibility:
JK & JL · 2-door and 4-door

Perfect for stashing small valuables without altering your Jeep’s interior.

Tuffy Products In-floor Locking Cubby Cover

Tuffy Products In-Floor Locking Cubby Cover

Slip-In Center Console Safe

This is hands-down one of my favorite Jeep security upgrades—and one I personally use.

What I love about it:

• Maintains a completely stock appearance

• Full use of armrest and factory USB port

• Heavy-duty steel construction

• Now available with a 3-digit combination lock

It’s the ideal spot to lock up wallets, keys, firearms, or electronics when you want extra peace of mind.

👉 Check out my Step-by-Step Install Guide
👉 Buy Here - Slip-In Center Console Safe

Jeep Center Console

Tailgate Lockbox with MOLLE Storage

If you carry tools, recovery gear, or camping equipment, this one is a game changer, Molle Tailgate Storage.

Key features:

• Mounts to the inside of the tailgate

• Lockable steel construction

• Fold-down door doubles as a work surface (supports up to 40 lbs)

• Two removable shelves

• Integrated MOLLE panel for gear organization

Compatibility:
JK & JL · 2-door and 4-door
Note: Some drilling required

Tuffy Products Tailgate Lockbox with Molle Panel

Rear Cargo Lockable Enclosure

This solution secures everything in the back of your Jeep perfect for road trips, overlanding, or daily use. Rear Cargo Lockable Enclosure

Why it stands out:

• Steel enclosure lid with matching panels

• Works with the Jeep’s factory locking tailgate

• Panels are removable for hauling larger items

• Keeps gear hidden and locked when topless

Ideal for protecting coolers, tools, camera gear, or camping equipment.

Rear Cargo Enclosure

Why Lockable Storage Matters

As a Jeep owner who runs topless regularly, I’ve learned that vehicle-specific steel security is far more reliable than portable lockboxes or soft storage. Tuffy Products are:

• Jeep-model specific

• Built for vibration, dust, and trail abuse

• Designed to deter smash-and-grab theft

• Proven by long-term Jeep community use

This isn’t about paranoia it’s about practical preparedness.

FAQs

Is lockable storage worth it for a Jeep?

Yes. Lockable Jeep storage significantly reduces theft risk, especially for topless or doorless Jeeps. Steel-mounted storage is far more secure than portable safes.

Can Jeep lockable storage be removed later?

Most lockable storage solutions, including console safes and cargo enclosures, can be removed if needed, though some options require minor drilling.

Will lockable storage change the look of my Jeep interior?

Most Tuffy Products are designed to maintain a factory appearance, blending seamlessly with the Jeep’s interior while adding hidden security.

Running topless shouldn’t mean sacrificing peace of mind. With the right lockable Jeep storage, you can enjoy every adventure knowing your gear is protected—on the trail or in the parking lot.

🚙💚
Disclosure: This post is not sponsored, and I did not receive compensation from Tuffy Products. All opinions are my own based on personal use and research.