Recently, we welcomed our third grandchild into the world. What a wonderful blessing! With new life — a new season begins. Are you currently in a new life season? I remember the very moment I first learned I was going to be a grandmother. It was ten years ago and initially, I was taken by surprise. Mike and I had just become empty nesters — a season of anticipation, reduced responsibility, and a time for us to worry less about... Read more
I’ve heard it said, “It’s none of your business what someone else thinks of you.” While I agree with this statement to a point, I do believe we have a responsibility as to care about character and reputation. “A good reputation is more valuable than costly perfume….” Ecclesiastes 7:1 (NLT) Paul speaks to this very subject. In his letter to the Corinthians, he explains his desire to be seen as a Christ follower. Following his conversion, he conducted himself in... Read more
When I was just out of school, I had the “perfect plan” for my life. I would marry the perfect man, have the perfect children, live a perfect life. It’s almost laughable when I think about it now, but clearly — I was pursuing my own comfort and dreams. As believers, God calls us to seek His purpose for our lives – not pursue a trouble-free life on earth. Trouble-free lives are not only unrealistic, but they’re also not at all reflective... Read more
Are there any destructive behaviors you find yourself trapped in? Do you lack appropriate boundaries? Are you overloading your schedule? Do you find yourself stuck in a rut, consumed by negativity, or regularly frustrated with life as it is? If so, isn’t it time for a change? It is said: “Watch your thoughts, they become words; Watch your words, they become actions; Watch your actions, they become habits; Watch your habits, they become character; Watch your character, for it becomes... Read more
There is power in the spoken word. The power to build up, encourage, and honor — and the power to tear down, discourage, and dishonor. “A word” has the power to create reality according to Psychology today.[1]A single word can change the outcome of legal matters according to Conversation analyst Elizabeth Stokoe. [2]Emily Dickinson put it this way, “I know nothing in the world that has as much power as a word. Sometimes I write one, and I look at it until... Read more
It was the late 80’s and early 90’s when Madonna, Prince and Janet Jackson led the fashion trends. I was far from God at that time and living in the world of bawdy fashion — until God got a hold of me. Once I began faithfully following Him, my identity began to change and I began reflecting His character more and more. The closer I grew to God, the more my wardrobe changed. As women, we want to look our... Read more
Is there a relationship you feel compelled to restore? Is there someone God continues to bring to the forefront of your thoughts? God never intended for us to walk through life alone. Relationships, as challenging as they can be at times, are important. They are often the vessel God uses to get us, and others, to the places, both physically and emotionally, He wants us to go. Relationships do require time and effort. And all too often, we dismiss our... Read more
We all get discouraged. At one time or another — over one thing or another. Discouragement seeks to continually assault our plans, our purposes, and our pursuits. We get discouraged in our workplaces, our homes, with our co-workers, friends, loved ones, and acquaintances. By attacking our thoughts with a barrage of negative messages, Satan seeks to steal, kill, and destroy the relationships we have and the hopes and dreams God places on our hearts. One moment we are inspired, enthusiastic,... Read more
While I was walking the beach with my girlfriends recently, I was moved by the vast beauty and serenity of the ocean. I was also awed by both the peacefulness and the enduing power it possesses. The calm, lapping waves on the shore are gentle enough to be walked through—yet the stormy waves beyond the shore view can be powerful enough to sink a battleship. The ocean seems to embody the characteristics of God – His vast and deep love... Read more
As we begin a new year, do you sense God encouraging you to make changes in your life? But — you aren’t sure you’re ready to take the first step? Isn’t it time to stop listening to your own voice of discouragement and start listening to God’s voice of encouragement and hope? The first step in any new direction is always the hardest. Maybe you need to press the send button to submit your application for a new job, call... Read more
Courage for Life
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