But a longing fulfilled is a tree of life.—Proverbs 13:12b (NIV) Dumbfounded, I watched my friend burst into tears as she read the email. “Can you believe this?” she asked. “Yes,” I replied, trying to understand her confusion. “This is what I’ve been praying for. Haven’t you?” She hesitated a moment and then answered, “Yes,…
“See, I will create new heavens and a new earth.”—Isaiah 65:17a (NIV) Sighing with resignation, I deleted the paragraph I had just written. The words just didn’t reflect my idea. Writing can be exhilarating—and frustrating. Sometimes the words flow easily. But most of the time it’s a process of writing, rewriting, and then rewriting some…
Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.—Philippians 4:5-7 (NIV) My anxious…
I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength.—Philippians 4:12b-13 (NIV) Years ago I traded my career as a CPA for a job as an au pair (nanny)…
“No one who puts a hand to the plow and looks back is fit for service in the kingdom of God.” — Luke 9:62 (NIV) Sighing, I looked at my phone. Three am. Once again my thoughts began replaying the painful memories of my past mistakes and regrets. I know I’ve said and done helpful…
When Jesus saw her, he called her forward and said to her, “Woman, you are set free from your infirmity.” — Luke 13:12 (NIV) Recently I participated in some online planning workshops to help me set goals for 2024. In our discussions, this question kept popping up: “Are you a planner, or a pantser?” If…
Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” — John 14:6 (NIV) As a young mother, I found it very challenging to leave my children in the care of others. I always created detailed instructions in the hopes that all would go…
I will hasten and not delay to obey your commands. — Psalm 119:60 (NIV) You are not behind. You are right on time. My mentor’s words took me by surprise. How can she be so sure? I feel like a late bloomer in my Christian walk. I didn’t grow up in the church,…
When Peter saw him, he asked, “Lord, what about him?” Jesus answered, “If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you? You must follow me.” — John 21:21-22 (NIV) As I listened to the sharing from the other members of our group, I got an all-too-familiar sinking sensation in my…
