“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…
Dear friends, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that has come on you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice inasmuch as you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed.—1 Peter 4:12-13 (NIV) The road sign immediately…
You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.—Isaiah 26:3 (NIV) Walking across the gangplank, I breathed a sigh of pure contentment. My husband and I had waited for months to start this much-needed vacation. Cruising, unlike other forms of travel, feels stress free. We pay for everything…
In Joppa there was a disciple named Tabitha (in Greek her name is Dorcas); she was always doing good and helping the poor. Acts 9:36 (NIV) Caught off guard, I turned away so she couldn’t see my face. My friend didn’t mean to be malicious, but her careless words left me seething. What did she…
For in six days the Lord made the heavens and the earth, the sea, and all that is in them, but he rested on the seventh day. Therefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath day and made it holy.—Exodus 20:11 (NIV) What am I supposed to do with myself all day? I’d been studying and practicing…
“Yes it is, Lord,” she said. “Even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their master’s table.”—Matthew 15:27 (NIV) Panic invaded my soul the minute I left for the recreation center. Our pool operates on a first come, first serve basis. During the summer, swimming lessons occupy one of the few lanes open for…
Her words took me by surprise. My friend had just complimented my prayer life. Never in my life would I think of myself as a prayer warrior. For years my quiet times consisted of 90% Bible study, and a quick 10% of prayer. Except when facing a huge problem—then I prayed longer. I used to…
Right there, in the middle of the dining room of the fast food restaurant, tears began streaming down my face. I’d stopped in for a quick bite before heading to the evening service of my church. I’d only been a Christian for a few months, but already felt disillusioned. I thought following Jesus rather than…
Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.—Romans 12:1 (NIV) In my mind’s eye, I still see her. A lawyer professionally dressed in a tailor-made suit, she opened the door of her…
