When it seems that wrong is always winning, how do you reconcile that? How do you handle the emotions that arise from the injustice that you see? As I meditated on Psalm 36 this morning, it sounded like it was describing what I observe in society today. Between the violence in our streets and the deceitfulness of our governing authorities, … Read More
Am I Good Enough?
Do you have an ongoing struggle with feelings of inadequacy, as you strive to be good enough to gain the approval of people? Well, as a recovering “people-pleaser”, I have to admit my answer to that question is a resounding “yes”. Well, 2 Corinthians 3:4-6 addressed my feelings of inadequacy and helped me realign my focus this morning. Check this … Read More
Love is the Greatest Gift
1 CORINTHIANS 13 ~~ CHRISTMAS VERSION If I decorate my house perfectly with plaid bows, strands of twinkling lights and shiny balls, but do not show love to my family, I’m just another decorator. If I slave away in the kitchen, baking dozens of Christmas cookies, preparing gourmet meals and arranging a beautifully adorned table at mealtime, but do not … Read More
The Glory of God
For the music director. A Psalm of David.The heavens tell of the glory of God;And their expanse declares the work of His hands.~~Psalm 19:1~~ As I read and studied my way through this verse this morning, I was struck by the “glory” of God. Kabod is the Hebrew word used here and it means: weight, splendor, or copiousness. Now if … Read More
Jesus knew…and sent them anyway.
“Then, when they had rowed about twenty-five or thirty stadia, they saw Jesus walking on the sea and coming near the boat; and they were frightened.”~~John 6:19~~ When I read John 6:19 this morning, the word “when” struck me. Jesus sent the disciples to row across that water, knowing that a storm was coming. He sent them anyway. Ever wonder why He … Read More
Is Peace Possible?
In a world of noise and chaos, do you ever ask yourself, “Is peace possible”? I mean, I’m a believer, and Jesus promised, “My peace I give you”; so why is it I’m not experiencing peace? Peace I leave you, My peace I give you; not as the world gives, do I give to you. Do not let your hearts … Read More
When You Just Can’t
We all have times where the only thought that we can pull together is “I just can’t…” So I’m gonna be transparent this morning, which if you know me at all, is really scary for me. But I figure, if sharing can encourage just one person, it is worth the risk. So here goes. As I’ve shared before, I have … Read More
Truth and Consequences
All choices have consequences. Some good, some not so much. Today let’s learn what we can concerning the truth about consequences. This morning I was studying through 2 Chronicles 12 (Have I told you that I LOVE that book of the Bible?!! It’s so full of life lessons learned from the failures and successes of those who’ve gone before.) Anyway (smile), … Read More
Learning from the Blue Jay
God created such beauty for us to behold in this world. And I’m sure it’s by design that I learn so much from spending time observing his creations. This morning, after going out to feed the birds, I settled in at the kitchen table to do my study. Since I hadn’t closed the wooden door —I know that’s not … Read More
How to be an Effective Encourager
“22 … they sent Barnabas off to Antioch. 23 Then when he arrived and witnessed the grace of God, he rejoiced and began to encourage them all with resolute heart to remain true to the Lord; 24 for he was a good man, and full of the Holy Spirit and of faith. And considerable numbers were brought to the Lord.” … Read More