“As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, he came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to him. She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet listening to what he said. But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to…
Wanting Wisdom, Part II
“There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear, because fear involves punishment, and the one who fears is not perfected in love. We love, because He first loved us. “ I John 4:18-19 Staring at my planner, the book I live out of, I dipped my head and breathed a prayer, “Lord, please…
Wanting Wisdom, Part I
” If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.” James 1:5 NIV At ten years old, Ella was a lovely girl with high standards. She was enthusiastic and energetic. Her mom wasn’t surprised when she asked for permission…
Starting Success With Failure
““For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11 NIV “Lord, why did I ever think I should attempt this?” Sara desperately prayed as she stared at the computer screen before her. Why on…
Lifting Leidy
“ and a little child will lead them.” Isaiah 11:6b Six-year-old Colette sat coloring at the kitchen table. She loved the feel of the markers in her hands. She loved the broad stripes of color she created with each stroke. And, she loved these oversized coloring sheets featuring her favorite character: Hello Kitty. As she decided on her…
The Perfect Ten
“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men.” Colossians 3:23 NIV As I settled myself onto the cold, hard, gray bleachers, I chose to ignore the prevalent smell of perspiration. Once again, I was at the gym. I watched the gymnasts of varying abilities. The…
Totally Trustworthy!
“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” Hebrews 13:8 She eased into the school desk, wiping her auburn hair from face. Whew! She’d slid into her seat just seconds before the bell sounded. Arranging her text-book and notebook on her desk, she glanced forward as she took her pencil in hand. Her…
I Knew I Knew
“Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he will lift you up.” James 4:10 Stormily, I stared out the window as trees, fields, and flowers flashed by. My husband sat beside me, in screaming silence, occasionally revving the engine as he switched gears. “Speak to him. Reach out your hand,” the words…
Garden of ‘Even,’ Part II
“And I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and hers; he will crush your head and you will strike his heel.” Genesis 3:15 Sin had officially entered the world. With all its pomp and circumstance came changes, lots of changes. But God was ready with a plan. Psalm…
Garden of ‘Even,’ Part I
“Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.” I Peter 5:8 Have you ever been furious with your circumstances, or maybe your consequences of a not-so-stellar decision? Maybe you vowed to get even. And maybe you vindictively vowed to strike against what…