From our earliest days, we are taught that there is a right and a wrong answer to almost every problem and dilemma. As we grow, we learn that life is a little more grey than black and white. In some ways, this fact is helpful, and it’s discouraging in other
I can’t stop thinking about that one thing I said. It came out sharp—sharper than I meant it—and I saw it land. I apologized, of course. But even days later, I’m still carrying it. Still replaying it. Still frustrated with myself for not being more patient, more gentle, and more
The phrase “It was meant for evil but God meant it for good” might be one of the most common phrases used by Christians today. But these were not merely feel-good words uttered in the spur of the moment. Neither was Joseph trying to sound smart and profound. These words
As I think about the importance of a strong, unshakable foundation, it reminds me of a story I would hear as a child. In a quiet valley, a house was being built. Only the concrete foundation stood. A little girl passed the construction site on the way to school. She
When I first gave my life to the Lord, I heard of the biblical concept of the fruit of the Spirit. I was desperate to be able to emulate these characteristics because I viewed them as a goal to accomplish. I thought that once I obtained all of the fruit,
“In the first month…pur (that is, the lot) was cast before Haman in order to determine a day and a month. It turned out to be the twelfth month…” – Esther 3:7 One year….did you catch that? The Jews had one year to prepare for the day of their deaths.
Nothing God does is done in a vacuum and without purpose. Nothing! Everything He does has a plan, purpose, and intent. Even though we know that God is completely in control, it is also ok to ask, “Father, what are you doing?” Hope Against All Odds The world was in
Hope of the Everlasting Kingdom I’ve recently been thinking about how being part of the body of Christ through the local church is one of the greatest gifts Jesus has given us. In the church, we find community, support, encouragement, sanctification, and strength. But while there is great rejoicing in
Excitement. Anticipation. Expectation. Oh, how I remember, as a child, the feelings in December, as I counted down the days waiting for Christmas to come! As an adult, I confess to having lost much of that child-like wonder and awe as I continue to wait in different seasons of life.
By God’s Great Mercy BUT GOD! Right before Ephesians 2:4, Paul tells us that we were dead in our transgressions. We were children of wrath. We had no hope. BUT GOD ”being rich in mercy.” BUT GOD by “his great love with which he loved us.” BUT GOD ”even though