Jesus said the truth would set us free (John 8:31), but in order for that to happen, the truth has to go beyond mere intellectual assent and enter into our soul and emotions. This requires prayerful meditation and periodic reminders. The following is one such meditation, and I pray all God's...

Posted 2014. "They will celebrate your abundant goodness and joyfully sing of your righteousness." Psalm 145:7 As we gather with family and friends this season, I'm so thankful for the greatest gift of all: Jesus Christ! I've recently been reading in the book of Leviticus and I'm so thankful we no...

There are many things, negative and positive, that motivate us to try to change: guilt, fear, anger, pride, a desire to be healthy or to improve at something, etc. Operating under those motivations may work for awhile, but sooner or later we'll burn out and give up. Think of how many New Years...

My husband is a great role model for me in the area of de-stressing before trying to resolve an issue. I confess that it took me a long time to appreciate this quality in him because I tend to want to reach resolutions now. But some things really do take time to work through, and it's always wise...

The Bible says, "Blessed are the peacemakers" (Matthew 5:9) and "If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone." (Romans 12:18) I had to learn the hard way what that meant. It means that I am to make whatever sacrifices God calls me to make, in the interest of peace....

After the resurrection, Jesus first appeared to a woman, and He gave her the privilege of taking the good news to the disciples. God also gave the woman the faith to believe the truth immediately, whereas the men were skeptical. Why would Jesus give a woman such faith and honor? I believe He was...

Two excellent resources for marriage are: 1) Love and Respect by Dr. Emerson Eggerichs. If you don't enjoy reading these kinds of things, I highly recommend the DVD series by that name. Ask for the conference DVDs. They're very entertaining, as well as informative (he has a great sense of humor!)....

I love psalms like Psalm 13 because I can really relate. In verses 1-4 the psalmist vents. He asks the Lord how long he must wait for the answers to his prayers. He even pours out his emotions--feeling like God has forgotten him (even though he knows He hasn't). He speaks of wrestling with his...

Many years ago, Anne Graham Lotz was the December guest speaker at a Bible study I attended. One thing she mentioned was that, every year, she asks Jesus what sacrificial gift He would like from her for Christmas. That really struck a chord with me, and I've been doing the same ever since. I can...

Posted 2013. As we approach the national holiday of Thanksgiving, I was reflecting upon my recent reminder of what it looks like to "give thanks in all circumstances" (1 Thessalonians 5:18). I had recently asked the Lord to help me fast and rest in Him. He then brought good out of being sick. I...