Can I make a confession? Sometimes I quit too soon. I’ve quit when what I really needed to do was press on and press through. Sometimes I’ve gotten tired of trying. Sometimes I’ve gotten tired of the struggle. And you know what? I’ve missed many blessings because I got tired of the battle. I don’t want to do that any longer. Read more…
This is the Day!
I’m writing over at Proverbs 31 Ministries today and thought you might enjoy it to!
The beach was scarcely populated as I sank my bare feet into the shimmering sand. Waves rushed forward as if to say “hello,” then shyly retreated out to sea. I was looking for unbroken shells along the shore, which was carpeted with bits and pieces of shattered treasures polished by the toss and tumble of the tides. Read more…
When Impossible Situations Meet a Powerful God
As moms, wives, and co-workers and friends, we face many seemingly impossible situations. School struggles that seem beyond a tutor’s intervention. Maturing that feels like it’s on the far side of never. Attitude adjustments that could use a personality transplant. Relationships in which someone jumps ship.
The Bible is filled with stories of seemingly hopeless situations that served as a backdrop for heavenly miracles. Read more…
What Are You Afraid Of?
How do you react to fear of the unknown when it comes to stepping out in faith or living boldly? I remember the first time I spoke with a microphone in front of a crowd. I was terrified! My topic was Unshakable Confidence in Christ, but my knees were knocking!
Everyone has his or her own unique way of talking themselves out of taking steps of faith. Read more…
Big Assignments begin with Tiny “Yeses”
When people ask me how I got started in ministry, I tell them I started by writing for free publications for free for 10 years. This is not what most people want to hear.
When I tell them I started by folding newsletters in the den of my home for several years, they seem crestfallen. Read more…
Ten Trash Bags
I wrote this devotion a while back, but I needed a reminder of what I learned that day. This New Year, wonder if you do too.
I set out to tackle a task I had put off for many years. I didn’t really want to do it at all. It was the job of cleaning out my ministry storage closet. Read more…
When Christmas Never Ends
In just a few days, you will most likely be taking down those Christmas decorations and packing them up until next year…when you will be pulling them out and decorating all over again! Yes, Christmas is coming again…unless Jesus comes back before then.
This year, as you pack away those tinseled treasures, I want you to think about this: The babe who was born in a manger, Read more…
When It’s Time to Stop Moping
Have you ever been so discouraged that you just wanted to stay in bed and pull the covers up over your head? Maybe that’s where you are right now.
I felt that way last Christmas when my son and daughter-in-law didn’t make it to our house for our much longed for, much planned for holiday visit. A snow storm canceled their flight and it was too dangerous to drive. Read more…
How Long Am I Going to Be Mad About It?
I was really upset with her. I don’t need to tell you the details because I want you to fill in the blanks yourself.
I was really mad at _______ for ________. I’m not worried about you not having anything to put in those blanks because you’re human. We’ve all been really irked at someone for hurting our feelings, Read more…
Jesus is Cheering for You!
Have you ever felt like you just wanted to quit this thing called the “great race” of life? That’s your spiritual legs ache and you would much rather sit on the side of the road and have a good pity party than take one more step? I certainly have. And then I think of my nephew Stu and his mom, Read more…