Power, prestige, popularity . . . three “P’s” that cause all kinds of problems for followers of Jesus. Not that they’re bad in and of themselves. The issue is that it is so easy for them to become irresistible temptations for selfishness.
Matthew 18 begins with the disciples asking Jesus…
“Who is greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven?”
Matthew 18:1
And Jesus reponded by showing them a child and saying…
Anyone who becomes as humble as this little child is the greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven.
Matthew 18:4
According to Jesus, the key to greatness is not in power, prestige, or popularity but in living with childlike faith that is trusting, humble, and sincere. That doesn’t sound like the world’s message, does it?
And because being childlike will always be directly confronted and frustrated by the ways of the enemy of our souls, Jesus went on to talk about some of the challenges of living in a world full of people with varying beliefs, ideas, and opinions. Things like tempting others or being condescending toward them. Challenges like being on the receiving end of sin and our essential need to forgive as we have been forgiven.
And each one of Jesus’ truths conflicts with the selfishness of doing whatever it takes to attain power, prestige, and popularity.
I highly recommend that you spend some time today pouring over Jesus’ words in Matthew 18. It is packed full of the things that we need to do to live with one another the way God wants.
But before you head over, let’s pray together and ask God to help us trust that His plan for greatness is better than anything else this world has to offer.
A Prayer to Follow Jesus and Be the Greatest
Father, Jesus taught and modeled a completely different idea of what it means to be the greatest. The world tries to convince us that greatness is found in power, prestige, and popularity. It tries to convince us that those with the most money, followers, and influence are the ones to worship and trust. But then Jesus brings a child in front of us and says, “if you want to be the greatest . . . be like this.”
Please help me. Help us. Help us worship and trust You alone. Make us humble, sincere, loving, and vulnerable. Help us to stop worrying about social status and likes on Facebook and simply love one another with childlike vulnerability. Help us to quit trying to impress and influence to focus on following Your will with faith and hope.
Help me remember that You alone are worthy. I offer myself to You, Lord. Help me live today trusting Your promises and following Your will that I might live for Your glory. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.
If you want to be the greatest…
Friend, if you and I want to be great we need to turn from the things the world says we need to God’s Word and SEEK Him because He promises that when we do . . . He will give us everything He knows we need!
On today’s note write:
SEEK GOD and BE CHILDLIKE if You Want to Be the Greatest!
May your day be blessed by the One who truly is the GREATEST!
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Can you relate to just wanting a break from satan’s relentless temptations and taunts? Do you ever feel like you could really use a break from his constant reminders of the pain you have suffered because of your past failures or someone else’s?
Me too! It drives me crazy when I’m having a great day and suddenly a thought enters my head and sends me into a dark and difficult place. And it’s just as frustrating when he puts one right in front of me and I give in yet again!
But it helps me to remember that Jesus knows what it’s like to be tempted. The enemy used the same enticements he uses to tempt us: 1. physical need and desires, 2. possessions and power, and 3. pride. (Life Application Bible Notes)
Jesus knows what it’s like to be fully human and tempted butJesus didn’t sin! He resisted temptation with the “Sword of the Spirit.”
…take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.
Ephesians 6:17 (NCV)
Three times Jesus responded with the words…
“The Scriptures say.”
Matthew 4:4,7,10
This is one of the reasons I love reading and studying Scripture.
I can’t make use of the greatest weapon in the arsenal God has given us if I don’t arm myself. I want to know God’s will and discern His truth. I want to be armed and ready.
Do you know what Jesus did after He defeated the enemy?
He began to minister to others, preaching, teaching, and healing:
From then on Jesus began to preach, “Repent of your sins and turn to God, for the Kingdom of Heaven is near.”
Matthew 4:17
He called people to turn from their sins, giving up selfishness and stubbornness to follow God’s will by obeying His directives and commands.
I’ve learned something precious as I’ve turned to the Bible over the past decade and a half. Through Jesus, God not only blesses us with the promise of eternal life in heaven . . . He blesses us with freedom, peace, hope, strength, and love each day. And He blesses us with everything we need to release the past and embrace a future filled with hope.
I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.
Jeremiah 29:11
The Lord is true to every promise . . . will you pray with me and thank Him for giving us all we need to fight the enemy?
A Prayer toFight the Enemy When You Are Tempted
Father, I thank and praise You for Your Word and for making it possible for me to know Jesus.
Jesus, thank you for experiencing humanity in its fullness . . . for allowing yourself to be tempted, to feel pain, to know rejection and encounter the demands and pressures life with people. Thank you for showing me how to live through life’s challenges with wisdom, power, grace, and love—how to trust God’s will and fight the enemy. Thank you for all you have done for me! I love you, Lord. Help me faithfully trust and obey You.
Friend, it’s a great blessing to know that Jesus understands our weaknesses.
This High Priest of ours understands our weaknesses, for He faced all of the same testings we do, yet He did not sin.
Hebrews 4:15
He has given us what we need to fight the enemy whenever we are tempted.
On today’s post-it note write:
By God’s grace, I have everything I need to fight the enemy.
May you be blessed as you fight the enemy with God’s Word today. You can read all of Matthew 4 here.
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This is a record of the ancestors of Jesus the Messiah, a descendant of David and of Abraham.
Matthew 1:1
One of the things I love about Matthew 1 is the record of Jesus’ ancestors.
It includes Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, David, and Solomon, but it also includes Rahab, the prostitute, who was mother of Boaz (David’s great-grandfather), Ruth, the foreigner, who was the mother of Obed (David’s grandfather), and Bathsheba, the woman with whom David had an affair. And God called David a man after His own heart (1 Samuel 13:!4)
Why does it matter? Because God sent Jesus to be the Savior of all people . . . Jews, Gentiles, men, and women!
It doesn’t matter who or what is part of your past – God uses all kinds of people to accomplish His purposes. He uses ordinary people to do His will on earth.
“Look! The virgin will conceive a child! She will give birth to a son, and they will call Him Immanuel, which means ‘God is with us.’”
Matthew 1:23
He even used a poor teenage girl and her human ancestors to form His Son into the God/Man Word Made Flesh!
How to Leave a Legacy of Love
I love Stephen Covey’s quote:
“Live, laugh, love, and leave a legacy.”
I’ve added a few words to make it my own…
Live with joy. Laugh often and enthusiastically. Love God, friends, and family with a full heart. Leave a legacy that glorifies God!
The Psalmist said it this way:
We were filled with laughter, and we sang for joy. And the other nations said, “What amazing things the Lord has done for them.” Yes, the Lord has done amazing things for us! What joy!
Psalm 126:2–3
So, let’s pray and ask God to help us “live, laugh, love, and leave a legacy” all for His glory!
Father, thank you for using ordinary people to accomplish Your plans and purposes. Thank you for showing us how valuable every person on the planet is to You.
You lift up people of all races. You show Your love and care for women and men. You call every one of us to repentance and freedom that we might be made new and receive beautiful opportunities by Your grace, to leave a legacy of laughter and love that gives You glory!
This is my prayer, Lord, to bring to You my failures and flaws in humble repentance and to surrender my life to You as an offering of my love. I give myself to You. Please help me live every moment of my life for Your glory and leave a lasting legacy of Your love! Amen.
Friend, whatever your ancestry looks like . . . God’s grace is sufficient to put His mark on it to help you from this moment on leave a legacy of love for His glory.
Write the following on a post-it note to help you remember:
Today, I will leave a legacy of love.
God bless you today and throughout the year ahead!
Take a moment to subscribe to Counting My Blessings and join more than 7500 of us as we read the New Testament together. We will share short posts every Monday through Friday that you can read each day or save for the weekend. Let’s study God’s Word together!
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Leave your prayer requests…
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I’m so excited to tell you about my new book!
No matter what a busy week may throw your way, God is with you in every moment. Take a breath and find peace in Him with the 52-Week Devotional Journal for Women, a weekly devotional full of Scripture passages, unique insights, and journal prompts. Strengthen and deepen your relationship with God as you focus on faith over the course of the year. Get your copy here!
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If there was any other way to offer us forgiveness of sin, to reconcile us to God, to give us eternal life, and to open Heaven for us when we die, God would have found it. He never would have sent Jesus to die on the cross. There simply is no other way.
I’m taking closer look at Holy Week because I want to make it personal. I want to see myself standing with the cheering crowds, sitting at the table in the upper room, asleep in the garden, and standing at the foot of the cross.
I’d love for you to join me and maybe even spend some time talking about the questions with your family.
I don’t want to rush through the pain to get to the promise. This year, I want to pause and see myself with His disciples … fully experiencing the Jesus’ gift of love that gave me the freedom to LIVE in LOVE!
A Holy Week Bible Study
Palm Sunday
Let’s start with a prayer…
Help me stop this week and look at my heart. Show me where I’m wrong. Show me my sin. Forgive me and help me change.
Thank you for saving me through Jesus. Thank you for saving the words of those who walked with Him. Thank you for allowing me to look closely and marvel at amazing grace. Teach me. Guide me. Draw me close in Jesus name. Amen.
So they brought the colt to Jesus and threw their garments over it for Him to ride on.
As He rode along, the crowds spread out their garments on the road ahead of Him. When He reached the place where the road started down the Mount of Olives, all of His followers began to shout and sing as they walked along, praising God for all the wonderful miracles they had seen.
“Blessings on the King who comes in the name of the Lord! Peace in heaven, and glory in highest heaven!”
Luke 19:35–38
Pause with me for a moment and let your heart and mind imagine the scene.
What do you see?
What do you hear?
What do you smell?
Who are you?
A follower?
A Pharisee?
A bystander?
A fan?
Are you being swept along by the excitement? Are you skeptical of the man they say can raise the dead? Are you angry? Are you confused?
“Now my soul is deeply troubled. Should I pray, ‘Father, save me from this hour’? But this is the very reason I came!Father, bring glory to Your name.”
John 12:27
What would you like to say to Him?
Holy Monday
Back in Jerusalem, Jesus entered the Temple and began to drive out the people buying and selling animals for sacrifices. He knocked over the tables of the money changers and the chairs of those selling doves, and He stopped everyone from using the Temple as a marketplace.He said to them, “The Scriptures declare, ‘My Temple will be called a house of prayer for all nations,’ but you have turned it into a den of thieves.”
Mark 11:15–18
Pause for moment…
What do you see?
What do you hear?
How does it smell?
Who are you?
A worshipper?
A priest?
An observer?
A disciple?
A buyer? A seller?
How do you feel?
Do you believe?
My prayer…
Father, forgive me. I’m ashamed. I’m afraid I would likely stand in the courtyard surprised by Jesus’ passion and conviction. It’s probably I would find normal and satisfactory the way things have “always” been done. I wonder if I would even realize that a place of prayer had become a marketplace.
I’m challenged to ask if I’ve allowed subtle changes in culture to distort my perception of holiness and worship.
I want a passion for Your holy presence. I want to cherish what You call holy. I want to give the highest value to truth and honesty. I want to know Your truth. I want my heart to break for those things that break Your heart and I want to hold sacred that which is precious to You.
Please help me, Father. Forgive me. Guide me by the power of Your Spirit. Draw me close. Hear my prayer in Jesus’ name. Amen.
He got up from the table, took off His robe, wrapped a towel around his waist, and poured water into a basin. Then He began to wash the disciples’ feet, drying them with the towel He had around Him.
After washing their feet, He put on His robe again and sat down and asked, “Do you understand what I was doing?You call me ‘Teacher’ and ‘Lord,’ and you are right because that’s what I am.And since I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you ought to wash each other’s feet.I have given you an example to follow. Do as I have done to you.
John 13:4–5, 12–15
Let’s pause…
What do you see?
How does it smell?
What do you hear?
How do you feel?
Who are you?
Matthew?
Nathaniel?
James or John?
Judas?
Peter?
An observer watching from the corner?
Are you humbled? Are you ashamed? Are you confused or embarrassed?
Are you willing to serve those with stinky feet?
Do you believe?
Father, I picture myself with teachers I’ve respected and admired; and I can’t imagine one of them washing my feet. It seems awkward and embarrassing. It’s easy to relate to Peter’s word, “You will never wash my feet.”
But then I hear Jesus’ words and I see His humble love and I want to follow His example and love like Him.
Please forgive me. I fail repeatedly. I allow “self” to get in the way of love and service. I’m self-protective and self-righteous. Help me. Open my eyes to see those who need me to love them with humble love. Help me to follow Jesus’ example. Help me trust and obey. Amen.
Then Jesus went with them to the olive grove called Gethsemane, and He said, “Sit here while I go over there to pray.”
He told them, “My soul is crushed with grief to the point of death. Stay here and keep watch with me.”
He went on a little farther and bowed with His face to the ground, praying, “My Father! If it is possible, let this cup of suffering be taken away from me. Yet I want Your will to be done, not mine.”
Then He returned to the disciples and found them asleep. He said to Peter, “Couldn’t you watch with me even one hour?Keep watch and pray, so that you will not give in to temptation. For the spirit is willing, but the body is weak!”
Matthew 26:36,38–41
And again, let’s pause…
What do you see?
What do you hear?
What do you smell?
Who are you?
Peter?
James?
John?
Thomas? Philip? Matthew?
Judas?
Are you embarrassed? Are you trying to stay awake? Are you confused by Jesus’ emotion on this night of celebration? Are you afraid?
Do you watch and pray?
Do you believe?
Lord, I can’t imagine the anguish of that hour. The pain of knowing what was about to happen. The pain of knowing the beginning to the end. Knowing the pain, the betrayal, denials, lies, rejection…
I am so sorry. Please forgive me. My sin. My shame. My punishment.
Help me to live by the power of Your Spirit. Help me to embrace the freedom you’ve given. Help me to love You with all my heart, mind, soul, and strength. Help me to love like Jesus. In His name and for His sake I pray. Amen.
Then Pilate had Jesus flogged with a lead-tipped whip. The soldiers wove a crown of thorns and put it on His head, and they put a purple robe on Him. “Hail! King of the Jews!” they mocked, as they slapped Him across the face.
John 19:1-3
Then Pilate turned Jesus over to them to be crucified. So they took Jesus away.Carrying the cross by Himself, He went to the place called Place of the Skull (in Hebrew, Golgotha).There they nailed Him to the cross. Two others were crucified with him, one on either side, with Jesus between them.And Pilate posted a sign on the cross that read, “Jesus of Nazareth, the King of the Jews.”
John 19:16–19
At noon, darkness fell across the whole land until three o’clock. Then at three o’clock, Jesus called out with a loud voice, “Eloi, Eloi, lema sabachthani?” which means “My God, my God, why have you abandoned me?”
Mark 15:33–34
Jesus knew that His mission was now finished, and to fulfill Scripture he said, “I am thirsty.”
When Jesus had tasted it, He said, “It is finished!” Then He bowed His head and gave up His spirit.
John 19:28,30
And finally, let’s pause to make it personal one more time…
What do you see?
What do you hear?
What do you smell?
Who are you?
John?
Mary Magdalene?
A Soldier?
Mary, His mother?
A Mocker?
An Observer?
A Thief?
A Priest?
How do you feel?
Are you afraid? Are you appalled? Are you ashamed? Self-righteous? Devastated? Confused? Satisfied?
Who is this man? Who is Jesus to you?
Do you believe?
Father, Jesus said, “When I am lifted up from the earth, I will draw everyone to myself.”
Draw me close, Father. Pull me to the foot of the cross. I don’t want to look away . . . to shrug off hard to face truths. That my sin caused Jesus suffering and death. My hand held the hammer. I stand with the mockers and Pharisees.
I want to see myself as John or one of the Marys. But that’s just my foolish pride. It allows me to judge those who history credits as causing your death. It allows me to separate myself. It makes it possible for me to think—at least I’m not as bad as…
But, I’m wrong. Forgive me. I am a sinner. As hard as I try, I will always fall short of Your perfect will for me. I’m so sorry.
Thank you for never giving up on me. Help me to keep my eyes, my heart, and my mind focused on Jesus—the One who authored and perfected my relationship with You through faith. I come to the cross that brings me to You. Thank you, Father. Thank you, Jesus. Amen.
Take a moment to subscribe to Counting My Blessings and join more than 7500 of us as we read the New Testament together. We will share short posts every Monday through Friday that you can read each day or save for the weekend. Let’s study God’s Word together!
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You can also…
Leave your prayer requests…
and stop to pray one or two of the requests listed.
I’m so excited to tell you about my new book!
No matter what a busy week may throw your way, God is with you in every moment. Take a breath and find peace in Him with the 52-Week Devotional Journal for Women, a weekly devotional full of Scripture passages, unique insights, and journal prompts. Strengthen and deepen your relationship with God as you focus on faith over the course of the year. Get your copy here!
And always remember – I LOVE hearing from you! So, please take a minute to say ‘hi’ by leaving a comment.
If this article blessed or helped you today — would you share it with someone? Send it to a friend, family member, coworker, or share it through the links below…
I grew up in church, attended parochial schools, became a church organist in high school, a parochial teacher after college, and I married a minister.
Like a piece of modeling clay, I was poked here and pinched there until I was shaped into what I call a “good little church girl.”
I’ve attended more Bible Studies and church services than I can count.
Some might say, I have been indoctrinated even “brainwashed.
And there was a time in my life when they would have been right. You see, everything I knew about my faith … I’d learned from other people.
Oh sure, I read and memorized the required parts of the Bible when I was in school and studied the verses that were listed in every Bible Study I’ve attended but through most of my life … I allowed other people to teach me their understanding of what the Bible taught and that greatly influenced what I believed.
Now please don’t misunderstand, I believed in Jesus as my Savior! This post is not about questioning whether or not I had faith.
It is about…
What I was missing in my life because I was sitting at the feet of people rather than sitting at the feet of Jesus.
So, I want to tell you why I believe reading and studying the Bible is so important. Not just reading what people say about the Bible. Not just attending topical Bible Studies. Not just listening to sermons and “messages.”
But actually sitting down to read the Bible and letting God speak through His Word.
Why I don’t read many books written about the Bible.
And tell you…
How to Read the Bible in a Way that will Change Your Life
1. I love the Bible because…
I fell in love with reading the Word of God almost 15 years ago.
At the time, I was in a pit of despair … so completely broken that it was hard to function. I was having trouble getting out of bed and living my life. I didn’t want to see anyone or do anything.
By God’s grace, I picked up my Bible and a pen and I spent every spare moment reading and taking notes. Not a verse here and there but Genesis through Revelation … Creation through the Promised New Creation.
And as I prayed and asked Him to teach me through His Holy Spirit, God spoke to my broken heart…
He lifted me out of the pit of despair, out of the mud and the mire. He set my feet on solid ground and steadied me as I walked along.
Psalm 40:2
Ever so slowly with each turn of the page, the Spirit filled me with hope, peace, and even joy. He showed me that even when others reject and forsake me … God never will. And I began to fall in love with my Creator and my Savior.
Like reading an amazing autobiography, I identified with the people of God’s Word. I could see myself…
taking a bite of the fruit from the Tree of Knowledge of Good & Evil in the Garden.
depressed like Sarah.
grumbling like the wilderness wanderers.
broken like Job.
running like Jonah.
hiding and afraid like the disciples.
I’d love to see myself in the heroes of faith … but I identify more with the broken and needy. Because in their accounts, I see God’s constant and unwavering love.
And if He loved them like that, I can trust His love for me.
You see, I don’t see the Bible as a bunch of stories or a list of rules. For me, it is the greatest love letter ever written.
It is a message from God to His creation that He loves them so much He would rather die for them than live without them.
over 40 authors from many walks of life (i.e. – kings, peasants, philosophers, fishermen, poets, statesmen, scholars)
in different places (i.e. – wilderness, dungeon, palaces)
at different times (i.e. – war, peace)
in different moods (i.e. – heights of joy, depths of despair)
on three continents (Asia, Africa, and Europe)
in three languages (Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek)
At yet, it contains one message … one truth from Genesis through Revelation.
“For this is how God loved the world: He gave His one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life. God sent His Son into the world not to judge the world, but to save the world through Him.
John 3:16–17
Throughout history, as artifacts and historical documents have been unearthed and discovered … not one refutes the details of the Bible.
I’ve noticed through commenters online and conversations I’ve had in person … that most arguments against Christianity point to the failures and flaws of the Church – it’s leaders and members.
And you know what?
They’re right! People are messed up! Even people in the church. As much as we want to represent Christ well, we fail.
Paul wrote…
I want to do what is right, but I can’t. I want to do what is good, but I don’t. I don’t want to do what is wrong, but I do it anyway.
Romans 7:18b–19
And Paul’s right! But he’s not excusing bad behavior, he’s reminding the people reading his letter why they need Jesus.
A few verses later, he wrote…
What a miserable person I am! Who will free me from this life that is dominated by sin and death?Thank God! The answer is in Jesus Christ our Lord.
Romans 7:24–25a
For me, the message of the Bible – the truth I want people to trust … is that God’s love made evident in Scripture culminates in the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus. And a life surrendered to Jesus, no matter how broken by sin, will be transformed into a life of love that will live forever.
3. I don’t read many other books about the Bible because…
Although, I used to be an avid reader of books written by Bible teachers.
Lately, I’ve observed that although there are, I’m sure, many books which are Biblically sound … there are also others that contain a culture pleasing bias.
I don’t have the time or the energy to join the arguments about what teachings are Biblical and true and those that aren’t.
I feel God has called me to tell people about His transforming love.
Jesus said…
So now I am giving you a new commandment: Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other. Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples.”
John 13:34–35
I want to tell people and, to the best of my imperfect ability, show people the love of Jesus. I want them to know His power to lift them out of the “pit” and place them on a firm foundation built on His love. I want them to enjoy the freedom He gives to live with peace, hope, and joy.
So, I read my Bible and I write and tell my story.
Because I want people to know the One who says … I love you and I want to change your life.
Finally,
I’m often asked about my preferred Bible choice.
Rev once asked a theology professor, who was an expert in ancient Greek and Hebrew texts, what translation of the Bible he recommended and his answer…
The one you will read!
I agree.
My favorite translation is the New Living Translation. My favorite Bible is the Life Application Bible. (The notes are so helpful!)
The past two years I’ve read it in the Genesis to Revelation – format. Next year I’m reading it Chronologically.
I always have a notebook, pen, and highlighter with me when I read … marking and writing the verses that speak to my heart.
If you’re struggling with any part of life or even if your not … if you’d just like to change your life for the better, let the Holy Spirit speak to you through the pages of the Bible.
You don’t have to spend hours a day. Just start with the time you have. Leave your Bible open on a counter and read a few verses here and there throughout the day. Read a couple of verses from Proverbs in the morning and a Psalm before bed.
If you want to fall in love with the God of the universe and His Son, Jesus, if you want to know the difference His love can make in your life … read the Bible!
Take a moment to subscribe to Counting My Blessings and join more than 7500 of us as we read the New Testament together. We will share short posts every Monday through Friday that you can read each day or save for the weekend. Let’s study God’s Word together!
Subscribe to Blog via Email
You can also…
Leave your prayer requests…
and stop to pray one or two of the requests listed.
I’m so excited to tell you about my new book!
No matter what a busy week may throw your way, God is with you in every moment. Take a breath and find peace in Him with the 52-Week Devotional Journal for Women, a weekly devotional full of Scripture passages, unique insights, and journal prompts. Strengthen and deepen your relationship with God as you focus on faith over the course of the year. Get your copy here!
And always remember – I LOVE hearing from you! So, please take a minute to say ‘hi’ by leaving a comment.
If this article blessed or helped you today — would you share it with someone? Send it to a friend, family member, coworker, or share it through the links below…
I’ve read a handful of books in my life that I would say have been “life-changing” in the ways they have challenged me and grown my faith.
Books I simply call – the Best Faith Books!
These are books I reread often. Most have them have been around for a while. I’m guessing that even if you’ve read them … it was some time ago. So, I thought I’d take a few minutes to tell you why I think it may be time to read them again…
5 of the Best Faith Books
♥ Soul Keeping: Caring for the Most Important Part of You by John Ortberg
How would you describe your soul?
If you’ve always wanted to know the answers to questions like:
1. What is the soul? 2. What does sin have to do with the soul? 3. What does the soul need? 4. How to restore an injured or hurting soul?
John Ortberg does an excellent job of explaining how you and I are more than a body, a mind, and free-will. You and I are souls, and there may be nothing more important than knowing about our soul’s care and keeping.
Pastor Ortberg draws upon his years of study and mentorship under the late Dallas Willard to provide readers with a guide to their souls, the gateway to a deeper relationship with God.”Your soul is not just something that lives on after your body dies. It’s the most important thing about you. It is your life.”
Quotes from Soul Keeping…
“You’re a soul made by God, made for God, and made to need God, which means you were not made to be self-sufficient.” In one of his books, Dallas has further explained, What is running your life at any given moment is your soul. Not external circumstances, not your thoughts, not your intentions, not even your feelings, but your soul. The soul is that aspect of your whole being that correlates, integrates, and enlivens everything going on in the various dimensions of the self. The soul is the life center of human beings.”
“Our world has replaced the word soul with the word self, and they are not the same thing. The more we focus on our selves, the more we neglect our souls.”
My mind may be obsessed with idols; my will may be enslaved to habits; my body may be consumed with appetites. But my soul will never find rest until it rest in God.
I reread Lee Strobel’s books because they deal with facts … they always encourage my faith and give me tools I can use to share my own story of faith.
Lee Strobel wrote the following about this journey…
For much of my life I was a skeptic. In fact, I considered myself an atheist. To me, there was far too much evidence that God was merely a product of wishful thinking, of ancient mythology , of primitive superstition.
Then he spent nearly two years interviewing thirteen scholars and authorities on his quest for the truth about Christ. His “Case for” books present the facts and information gathered to the reader as a litigator would present evidence to a jury … facts and information that forever changed his life.
The reason I recommend reading and rereading Strobel’s books is I believe they will encourage your faith and give you tools you can use to share your faith with others.
Quotes from Lee Strobel…
“To continue in atheism, I would need to believe that nothing produces everything, non-life produces life, randomness produces fine-tuning, chaos produces information, unconsciousness produces consciousness, and non-reason produces reason. I simply didn’t have that much faith.”
“Christian faith is not an irrational leap. Examined objectively, the claims of the Bible are rational propositions well supported by reason and evidence.”
“I believe in Jesus on the basis of the historical evidence, but my relationship with Jesus goes way beyond the evidence. I have to put my trust in him and walk with him on a daily basis.”
♥ Your 100 Day Prayer: The Transforming Power of Actively Waiting on God – by John Snyder
This is by far, the best books on prayer I’ve ever read. It’s a book God placed in front of me in the middle of a book store when I was going through a very difficult time.
I’ve read and prayed through this book several times and I’m currently reading and journaling my way through it again.
When the need is so great, so seemingly impossible that only God’s direct intervention will ever bring it about, it takes a different kind of prayer. Your 100 Day Prayer is designed to take you straight to the heart and will of God by seeking him for a specific need. This book includes:
A dedicated page to express your need before God on the day you start your 100 day of prayer,
100 entries to help you focus your prayer through the truth of God’s Word and character,
Leading prayers to give you a jump start,
Writing space to capture your conversations with the Father and the spiritual transformation you experience day by day, and
A concluding page to memorialize how God answered your prayer and transformed you through the process.
Quote from Your 100 Day Prayer – A Prayer To Begin
Lord, as I embark on this journey of prayer, come and banish from my heart every last trace of self-reliance and captivate my mind with the truth that you are sufficient for my every need, great or small. Transform me by increasing my confidence in you, in all your extravagant forgiveness and mercy, and strengthen my trembling knees in the face of trouble. Cause my loved ones and me to emerge from this season of prayer with a fresh vision of Your glory, a new and lasting fearlessness, and a renewed devotion to Your purpose for Jesus’ sake. Amen.
I love the first question … What on earth am I here for?
Do you ever feel like you’re just going through the motions of life … swimming around in your own little fishbowl, feeling like there ought to be more?
If you’re longing for more … if you need a new perspective and new hope it just may be time to reread this book.
Quote – Rick Warren dedicated The Purpose Driven Life to you…
Before you were born, God planned this moment in your life. it is no accident that you are holding this book. God longs for you to discover the life he created you to live—here on earth and forever in eternity.
It’s in Christ that we find out who we are and what we are living for. Long before we first heard of Christ and got our hopes up, he had his eye on us, had designs on us for glorious living, part of the overall purpose he is working out in everything and everyone. Ephesians 1:11 (MSG)
And finally the #1 most important book you need to read, reread and then reread it again.
I promise you the more you read the Bible … the more you will fall in love with reading the Bible.
I’ve participated in more Bible Studies than I can count and although I’m still a fan, studies are primarily reading what someone else has to say about various and specific sections of Scripture.
And although valuable, I don’t want to rely simply on what someone else thinks about God’s Word … I want the Holy Spirit to speak God’s Word of truth directly to my heart and mind.
You see, through faithfully reading through the Bible every day I’ve not only fallen in love with reading the Bible … I’ve fallen in love with the Author.
Quotes from The Bible…
For the word of God is alive and powerful. It is sharper than the sharpest two-edged sword, cutting between soul and spirit, between joint and marrow. It exposes our innermost thoughts and desires.
Hebrews 4:12
All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right.
2 Timothy 3:16
Jesus prayed…
Make them holy by your truth; teach them your word, which is truth.Just as you sent me into the world, I am sending them into the world. And I give myself as a holy sacrifice for them so they can be made holy by your truth.
John 17:17–19
You are so very loved by the God of the universe.
The 5 best faith books will bless and encourage you and if you’re like me you need that reminder most when you’re caught in the middle of life’s daily routine!
P.S. I don’t benefit from the sale of any of these books and have not linked to any resources for you to purchase them. They are all available through Amazon as well as a variety of other book distributors. However, I am adding a link to my favorite version and translation of the Bible because the New Life Translation plus the Life Application Bible Study Notes blesses me.
Take a moment to subscribe to Counting My Blessings and join more than 7500 of us as we read the New Testament together. We will share short posts every Monday through Friday that you can read each day or save for the weekend. Let’s study God’s Word together!
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Leave your prayer requests…
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I’m so excited to tell you about my new book!
No matter what a busy week may throw your way, God is with you in every moment. Take a breath and find peace in Him with the 52-Week Devotional Journal for Women, a weekly devotional full of Scripture passages, unique insights, and journal prompts. Strengthen and deepen your relationship with God as you focus on faith over the course of the year. Get your copy here!
And always remember – I LOVE hearing from you! So, please take a minute to say ‘hi’ by leaving a comment.
If this article blessed or helped you today — would you share it with someone? Send it to a friend, family member, coworker, or share it through the links below…
I was supposed to read the Bible from cover to cover in college while taking the required Old Testament 1 & 2 and New Testament … I have to be honest with you and say it was a daunting task I never quite accomplished.
I’ve spent most of my adult life attending church and participating in Bible Study. Of course I have … I’m a preacher’s wife.
And I have to admit that during those busiest years most of my personal time spent in the Bible happened on the nights when stress and anxiety kept me awake in the middle of the night. During the day … it felt impossible to find time for personal anything.
But a little over a dozen years ago, a series of hard years culminated with a devastating loss and as I cried out to God … He drew me to His Word.
So I grabbed hold and read every verse from Genesis to Revelation in just three months. God used His Word to soothe my soul and heal my heart.
And I fell in love with the Bible.
So, I thought I’d share some of the ways I’ve read the Bible that have blessed me most.
5 Simple Ways to Read the Bible that will Bless You
1. Choose an understandable translation.
One that you will actually read!
Over the past 15 years, I’ve read the New International Version, the Amplified Bible, God’s Word Translation, the Holman Christian Standard Bible, The Message, the Chronological Bible, and the New Living Translation.
I believe the two Bibles that have blessed me most are the Chronological Bible and The Life Application Bible – New Living Translation.
I really liked the Chronological Bible as it helped me understand the Old Testament better by putting the words of the prophets into the appropriate times in history.
But I love the LAB – NLT! Last year, I read the text and all the notes. The translation is easier to understand (it’s the one I use most often in posts) and the notes help me think about the ways God wants me to apply all what I’m learning to my life.
2. Pray for the Spirit’s help to understand.
Proverbs 2 says…
Cry out for insight, and ask for understanding. Search for them as you would for silver; seek them like hidden treasures. Then you will understand what it means to fear the Lord, and you will gain knowledge of God. For the Lord grants wisdom! From His mouth come knowledge and understanding.
Proverbs 2:3–6
And Jesus’ brother, James wrote…
If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking.
James 1:5
I truly believe that when you and I sincerely ask God to give us the wisdom to understand the truths found in His Word … that is a prayer He is happy to answer positively!
3. Start where you’ll read.
If you’ve never read the Bible before, I don’t recommend you begin in Genesis and read through the Old Testament. I know too many of us have gotten discouraged in Numbers, Leviticus, 1 and 2 Chronicles, and Lamentations.
My favorite book is the Book of John.
The Life Application Notes include the following words in the introduction to John…
Eternal, infinite, unlimited—He was, is and always will be the Maker and Lord of all that exists.
He is the Word; HE is Jesus, the Messiah.
John loved Jesus and describes himself as the “disciple Jesus loved.” His words are about relationship … the love relationship you and I can have with the Heavenly Father through His Son, the Messiah … Jesus!
After John, I recommend reading Romans, 1,2,3 John, and Proverbs. Then go to Genesis and read. Or if you prefer … there is a very easy to follow Bible Reading Plan at the Back of the LAB – NLT just before the indexes.
4. Look for Jesus in both the Old and New Testatments.
Billy Graham wrote…
The message of Jesus Christ, our Savior, is the story of the Bible … it is the story of salvation, it tis the story of the Gospel, it is the story of life, peace, eternity, and heaven.
Although, I believe there is value in beginning with the books of John and Romans if you have never read the Bible before. I also believe we need to read it all from creation through Revelation’s promise.
There is a powerful quote from Roy Gustafson in this month’s Decision Magazine…
The New Testament is contained in the Old Testament.
The Old Testament is explained in the New Testament.
The New Testament is concealed in the Old Testament.
The Old Testament is revealed in the New Testament.
The Old Testament anticipates the New Testament.
The New Testament authenticates the Old Testament.
In the Old Testament the New Testament lies hidden.
In the New Testament the Old Testament lies open.
The Old Testament predicts a Person.
The New Testament presents that Person.
God promised Jesus in the Garden immediately after sin entered the world.
“I will cause hostility between you and the woman, and between your offspring and her offspring. He will strike your head, and you will strike His heel.”
Genesis 3:15
And throughout the pages of the Old Testament prophets, priest, and kings repeated the promise that God would send a Messiah to save us.
5. Ask questions and take notes.
I keep a highlighter, pen, and notebook with my Bible. I write verses and notes that speak to my heart and I write prayers inspired by the words I’ve read.
You can also ask the following questions:
What does this teach me about God?
What does it teach me about life?
What does it teach me about other people?
Is there a command to obey or an example to follow?
Is this a promise I can claim?
How can I apply this to my life?
Friend, I believe…
For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword,it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.
Hebrews 4:12
If you were sitting across the table from me right now, I would tell you with tears in eyes how I have fallen in love with the Triune God of the universe through the pages of Scripture. I can’t wait for Him to speak to me each day through His Story.
His promises have transformed my life.
Oh, how He loves you. Read His love letter to you and find out just how much!
Take a moment to subscribe to Counting My Blessings and join more than 7500 of us as we read the New Testament together. We will share short posts every Monday through Friday that you can read each day or save for the weekend. Let’s study God’s Word together!
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You can also…
Leave your prayer requests…
and stop to pray one or two of the requests listed.
I’m so excited to tell you about my new book!
No matter what a busy week may throw your way, God is with you in every moment. Take a breath and find peace in Him with the 52-Week Devotional Journal for Women, a weekly devotional full of Scripture passages, unique insights, and journal prompts. Strengthen and deepen your relationship with God as you focus on faith over the course of the year. Get your copy here!
And always remember – I LOVE hearing from you! So, please take a minute to say ‘hi’ by leaving a comment.
If this article blessed or helped you today — would you share it with someone? Send it to a friend, family member, coworker, or share it through the links below…
I think my favorite part about the best worship songs is their ability to get me right at my core.
It’s funny how a few words with a great melody can either bring me to tears or make me want to dance around the living room.
One song can inspire me to just sit still and listen while another sends me to my knees in prayer. One reminds me of God’s goodness and another prompts me to get out there and shine for Jesus.
A few notes, a little percussion, an inspired vocalist and we’re all moved to worship and praise.
I love it!
Being the Sanguine I am, I enjoy the surprise of listening to our local Christian radio stations. I like not knowing what’s coming next. Rev prefers to make playlists and cycle through his favorites again and again. So, he counts on me to share my favorites with him and help him keep his playlist up to date.
I thought you might want to know what we’re listening to … and oh my, before you go, I want to know what’s playing at your house, too. I hope you enjoy the videos and those not shown are just a song title click away.
And speaking of Flawless by MercyMe, I have something new I can’t wait to share with you!
IRL Resources
Weekly Music Studies For Your Family or Church.
IRL Resources is a brand new way to experience Christian music together. With an annual subscription, you’ll get access to 52 IRL Studies a year–that’s one every week!
Each study focuses on one hit Christian song from today’s biggest artists like Lauren Daigle, Kutless, Jordan Feliz, Jaci Velasquez, All Sons & Daughters, Aaron Shust, Hawk Nelson, Citizen Way and more!
You’ll get a worksheet that will give you theme references, scripture to read, focus and discussion questions, a quote from the artist about the song, a closing prayer and links to watch the music video and/or stream the song. Group studies also include an ice breaker game, full sermon notes, media slides and more.
Flawless is just one of those studies!
What a fabulous way to the best worship music with your family over the dinner table, in your homeschool classes, or youth Bible study.
Just imagine how much more engaged you all will be the next time you listen to a song you’ve discussed.
IRL is currently offering a FREE Newsboys study right now! And you can also get 30% your purchase through the end of the month by using the code DEBWOLF.
I’ve been blessed to preview several weeks of studies and I love them. And this is truly my personal opinion … I am not an affiliate nor am I benefitting in any way other than an opportunity to test run the studies myself.
I really love these studies. Our grandson is crazy about listening to his “best worship music” and this is just one more way to help him think about the message truths behind the notes and lyrics he enjoys.
Take a moment to subscribe to Counting My Blessings and join more than 7500 of us as we read the New Testament together. We will share short posts every Monday through Friday that you can read each day or save for the weekend. Let’s study God’s Word together!
Subscribe to Blog via Email
You can also…
Leave your prayer requests…
and stop to pray one or two of the requests listed.
I’m so excited to tell you about my new book!
No matter what a busy week may throw your way, God is with you in every moment. Take a breath and find peace in Him with the 52-Week Devotional Journal for Women, a weekly devotional full of Scripture passages, unique insights, and journal prompts. Strengthen and deepen your relationship with God as you focus on faith over the course of the year. Get your copy here!
And always remember – I LOVE hearing from you! So, please take a minute to say ‘hi’ by leaving a comment.
If this article blessed or helped you today — would you share it with someone? Send it to a friend, family member, coworker, or share it through the links below…
I’m so excited to welcome my friend, Kelly R. Baker today.
Kelly wants her readers to “stay nourished and thriving in your walk with God,” and says about herself:
I knew from a very young age that God called me to the ministry, but grew up with a track record of being a slow learner of His ways. I finally stopped blaming hormones and embraced His call, including writing.
The acronym Daily Time is my mantra. It means: Determining Again I Live Yielded. Today I’m Maintaining Evidence.
Please make her feel welcome … stop to say “hello” in a comment and head over to visit her at KellyR.Baker.com
5 Ways Time with God Changed My Life
Having a daily time with God changed my life, but it didn’t start that way. You can sometimes drag wrong mindsets into your meetings with God, even if you grew up with a church as your home away from home.
My parents became pastors when I was eleven and family devotions were a regular part of life. I would drag my petite-sized feet to those family devotions, dripping with dread every single time.
My view of God was backward. I didn’t understand that God loved me no matter what. Firmly convinced in my mind was good behavior—or else. So when I grew up, I brought that same mindset into my daily time with God—or lack thereof.
My life reflected the saying, “Rules without relationship breeds rebellion.” That rebellion brought me to a rejection of God as a young adult; I told God I wasn’t a Christian anymore.
Thankfully, it was a short-lived backsliding. There isn’t time to go into the details today, but God delights in delivering prodigals.
He removed the rebellion blocking the view of His goodness by giving me a fresh revelation: He still loved me if I rejected Him. I understood selfless love for the first time.
That day I experienced the most gentle healing of my entire life. There was a sweetness in God’s presence. Accustomed to only feeling conviction instead, I marveled that this presence could be God.
Since then I have desired to know this God of selfless love. My pursuit of Him thrives on having a Daily Time with Him. What is “Daily Time”? That’s when I’m fulfilling my mantra: Determining Again I Live Yielded. Today I’m Maintaining Evidence.
Keeping this Daily Time with God has changed my life! Here are five ways:
♥ Knowing God.
When I grew up in the Church, I could tell you the ending to almost any Bible story. But the character of God was lost on me. As I daily dug into His Word, I began to find verses that describe His promises. Instead of solely looking for what I was supposed to do or not do, I learned the attributes of God. He helped me experience His character when I went through unfavorable seasons.
Now I know God as constant in my life, not just hear Him called faithful by others. He continues to open my eyes to the evidence of different facets of His character as I walk with Him. I love it!
♥ Helping me see myself.
The Bible is a mirror disguised as a book. I saw my foolishness in the book of Proverbs. My unruly tongue came to light while studying the book of James. The disciple Peter’s impulsiveness hits close to home. Other people saw my shortcomings, but I grew up pridefully believing I am right and everyone else is missing it! Avoiding the truth of my sins and faults caused me to walk in deception. But applying His light to my darkness continues to transform me into His image.
I embraced His working on me (Philippians 1:6). And since I’ve seen real changes in my character that reflect God’s nature, it’s easier to surrender to this process no matter how painful it is.
♥ Enabling me to discern my calling.
Applying the Word of God results in spiritual growth and discernment. I matured enough that God saw fit to reveal my calling. I shared this exciting discovery with my spiritual mentors, and they confirmed that calling. That didn’t mean I suddenly launched into it! Oh, no.
As I said, God continues to work on me. When He felt I was ready enough, He began to give me assignments within my calling. Throughout the years if I’ve ever pulled away from it, God brings it to my attention and invites me to walk in it again. No matter how much work in ministry I do, He reminds me that I will never “arrive” until Jesus comes back. Philippians 1:6 again!
♥ Gaining wisdom to train my kids.
The same as many moms, I hold Proverbs 22:6 (ESV) dear to my heart, “Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.” Seeing that verse in the Word gives me hope. Whenever I am at a loss for what to do with my kids, I go to God in prayer. More often than not, the Holy Spirit will give me an idea or remind me of additional applicable verses in the Bible. Other times, He will lead me to talk to a particular person. When I follow through with that, the person He led me to will have the wisdom I need. Thank God for the body of Christ that helps each other!
♥ Not being my husband’s Holy Spirit.
In the earlier years of my marriage, I made a list of my husband’s imperfections. I would talk to Him about changing them. Can you say argument? Yeah, like every time. Miserable, I went to God with my ultimatum: God if you don’t change him, I’ll—I’ll—I’ll be miserable! (Divorce isn’t in our vocabulary.)
I picked up a devotional book geared toward marriage, and during my Daily Time with God, my eyes opened to the truth that I needed to work on me. Furthermore, the Holy Spirit made it clear that I had tried taking over His job. Ouch!
I released my husband to God and asked God to show me how I needed to change. Maybe I was a quarter of the problem? Or perhaps a third? He responded, “Most.” Figures. Ha! Later I did a study on love and learned to walk in the powerful wisdom that love is a choice. It took a long time, but I saw our marriage transformed because God changed me.
I’ve been a slow learner over the years, but I can affirm God’s way is the best way.
Daily Time in Your Life
You will find no higher satisfaction in life outside of God’s presence. Devour the Word every day and fill pages of newfound truths. Allow Him to transform your life to His ways. Thrive in Him and share His goodness!
Taste and see that the LORD is good. Oh, the joys of those who take refuge in Him! Psalm 34:8 (NLT)
Do you want to taste and see that the Lord is good, too? Take time with Him daily!
If building the habit of spending time with God every day seems unmanageable, I created the Daily Time Challenge just for you.
Kelly R. Baker is a Bible study teacher, writer, and mentor. She serves with her husband in leading the worship ministry at their church. You will probably find her sneaking a bite (or more) of organic dark chocolate in between wrangling her four kids. Her greatest passion is helping others seek God daily and thrive in spiritual growth.
I always enjoy hearing from you! Please take a minute to say ‘hi’ and share your thoughts in the comments below.
And if this article blessed or helped you today — would you share it with someone? Maybe a friend, family member, coworker, or through the links below…
Today’s guest post is by my friend, Mary Flaherty from SonRise Insights. I’m so glad she’s here. Please make her feel welcome.
Mary has a quick wit. She loves nothing more than laughing and encouraging those around her to join her in a good giggle. I love finding the humor in the daily. Life is funny, full of quirky twists and turns that are best handled with smiles.
A big thank-you to Mary for sharing her love for the Lord and His Word with us. For adding an encouraging smile to our day.
How is the Bible Like Kale? Do You Know?
Taste and see that the Lord is good. Psalm 34:8
Remember when kale was for decorative purposes only?
When I was younger, kale was only found in deli cases as that curly green border between cold cuts and salads, or in a restaurant, on your plate as a garnish. No one actually ATE kale. I’m pretty sure it was grown simply for garnishing and decorating.
Then it became a “superfood.” (Was the word, “superfood,” even a word before kale become one?) Suddenly, everyone wanted kale. People raved on their Facebook posts about how they made homemade kale chips. I tried to understand, but I felt like a six-year-old kid missing the punchline of an adult-themed joke. Yummy and kale just didn’t seem to go together for me. Chips and kale most certainly didn’t.
Until I decided to start eating healthy.
I buy kale now.
That’s right. I said I buy kale. I didn’t say I eat it.
I try to hide it among the romaine lettuce in my salad, but I still know it’s there. I add it to soups that already have plenty of other ingredients in it. I put it in my nutritional shake so that I don’t have to physically eat it. It may be good for you, but I still don’t like it. It’s bitter.
The thing is, I know it’s really good for me, so I eat it. And I’m actually beginning to like it.
My bible is a lot like kale.
The first bible I read was the one on the family bookshelf when I was a kid. It was big and bulky, but it had some pretty cool illustrations. I tried to read it like a book–you know–front to back. Consequently, I knew a lot about Adam and Eve, and not much else.
It was a decoration, like the kale in the deli case.
It looked nice on the shelf, but what other purpose could it possibly have? After all, we went to church. What did we really need the bible for?
Then I grew up, had children, and became more interested in this whole God thing. The minister of the church I started attending gave me a bible. I thought that was a kind thing to do, but it still didn’t interest me too much.
I hid it among the other books, like the kale in the salad.
I’d occasionally read other sections besides Genesis, like the gospels. I knew it was good for me, but I still didn’t care too much for it. I tried to like it, but I found it boring. And sometimes it left a bitter aftertaste in my mouth.
When I needed a spiritual “boost,” I’d throw it in my shake with all the other religious things that sought to offer me peace.
Then I started to “eat” healthy. I met Jesus in a personal way, and suddenly, I began to long for the “kale” of Christianity. I had a lot of problems, and the more I read, the more I learned, and the more I learned the healthier I became. I began to apply the principles I learned to my life, and my life started to change.
I was ingesting God’s superfood.
My bible was no longer a decoration, but a declaration: a declaration of God’s love for me.
When I discovered how good the Word of God was for me, I actually started enjoying it.
…the one who feeds on me will live because of me…he who feeds on this bread will live forever.” (John 7:56-58)
I love God’s Word. I think back and wonder how I ever thought it was boring and bitter tasting.
I wonder if I will ever feel that way about kale.
I doubt it.
Blessing along the path,
Mare
Bio:Mary Dolan Flaherty is a quirky gal who loves to make people laugh. She loves the outdoors and anything chocolate chip mint. She and her husband, whom she affectionately calls Hubbles, just finished hiking the New Jersey section of the Appalachian Trail. Mary writes along the humerus as the funny bone in the body of Christ at SonRise Insights. She can also be found on Facebook, and Twitter: @SonRiseInsights.
