I can still picture where I was standing, hear the words, and feel the way they hit my heart. I’d finally gotten the courage to share my sadness and longings with an older woman in our congregation. But before the words were fully out of my mouth, she looked at me and said, “Shame on…
My child, don’t reject the Lord’s discipline, and don’t be upset when He corrects you.For the Lord corrects those He loves, just as a father corrects a child in whom He delights. Proverbs 3:11–12 Nope, I don’t like being disciplined. I never have. Truthfully, I don’t know anyone who gets excited about being sent to time out or having a…
How often do you feel like you need a do-over? An opportunity to try again? Here’s a short list of some of the things I do that make me want a do-over: Words I’ve spoken that I’d like to inhale or say differently. Thoughts I’ve allowed to lead me down a path of discouragement. Procrastination…
I want to live in victory every day. Really I do. If you’re here, I’m guessing you want to live in victory too. But no matter how hard you and I try . . . the enemy and his demons heckle and harass us. They continually torment each of us with negativity, divisiveness, concerns, and…
Rev and I once stayed at a hotel where there was a card on the nightstand that read: W.I.T. Whatever it Takes. Simply dial ’10.’ Our goal is that every guest leaves satisfied.“ As guests, we appreciated both the message and the goal. And then I started thinking… What if every follower of Jesus, the…
So have you started to simplify your life, yet? Have you determined to get a grip on your schedule before you return to the busier fall routine? Living with an intentional plan and purpose honors God. So, let’s add 5 more ways to simplify… 5 More Things You Should Doto Bless and Simplify Your Life…
The first week in August is Simplify Your Life Week. Do you dread the start of school and all the extra activities that go with it? This week is the perfect time to stop and assess your family’s priorities, schedule, and responsibilities. It’s time to evaluate your must-dos, need-to dos, and want-to dos. Before the busyness and…
Are you happy? Do you want to be? If so, what are you doing about it? There are plenty of people who say that personal happiness is the goal and purpose of life. Although, I believe the “purpose of life” is God-given and found in Knowing, Loving, and Trusting Him. I do believe that God…
Jesus said, “I AM the Messiah.” (John 4:26) He said, “I AM the Way, the Truth, and the Life.” (John 14:6) And when Jesus asked Peter what he believed about Him, Peter said, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” (Matthew 16:16) So, today I’m taking a closer look and asking myself…
[Jesus said], “Do not judge others, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn others, or it will all come back against you. Forgive others, and you will be forgiven.“ Luke 6:37 We know Jesus told His followers to forgive each other. But I think most of us have experienced a time when it…
I frequently hear from people who are struggling with feelings of doubt… They doubt God’s goodness. They question God’s forgiveness. They’re afraid or worried about the future. They’re disappointed, hurt, or just beaten down by life. They don’t feel His presence and wonder about His love. The enemy of our souls works overtime to keep us…
The 4th of July is celebrated as Independence day in America. So, what does it mean to be independent? 1. Not subject to control by others: self-governing.2. Not requiring or relying on someone or something else. Synonyms for independence are: self-sufficient, self-reliant, self-supported, and self-sustaining . . . the ability to live in freedom. On July…
