As You Go
I’m learning new things in new roles. When I’m in new situations, or when I’m asked to serve in new roles, I often say, “I haven’t done this before. I don’t think I’m the best person for this.” Because I haven’t learned how to do something, I don’t try. Isn’t this ridiculous? How will I […]
Overcoming
Today I hear a speaker use a timely turn of phrase. He says, “You don’t need to try to overcome your sin. Instead, let Christ overcome you.” Everything follows from that. I think of being swept away, overcome by the majesty and power and beauty of God.
2 Lessons from Dr. Henry Cloud
I’m listening to Henry Cloud answer questions based on his expertise in leadership and clinical psychology. As guests present problems and ask for personal advice, I write down as many of Dr. Cloud’s golden words as I can. I glean some wisdom I needed! He imparts that one of the goals of parenting is helping […]
If You Have a Sleepless Night
I’ve had two sleepless nights that fill me with anxiety that, because I’m sleep-deprived, I therefore cannot manage my emotions, perform at my best, and display patience and kindness. I think I’m able to endure many things, but enduring a bad night’s sleep is on my list of personal development goals! I’m just a wreck […]
How Did It?
I meet with a student who wants to start a blog on just this question: “How did I see God working today?” I think of the astonishing verse in John 5:17 when Jesus says, “My Father is always at work, and so am I.” I think about the beauty of Philippians 2:13 that “God works […]
With This Now Gone
Our microwave broke two days ago. You would think this would be a terrible, terrible thing. Oh, but the things we have cooked–slowly and beautifully–without it. I became old-fashioned like grandma, turning bacon in the pan. The smell filled even the upstairs. I became slow and patient, listening for the song of the tea kettle […]
I Write Like a Mom
I love to write in a clean environment with absolutely no distractions, noise, or clutter. I would prefer a cup of coffee, a light snowfall, and a crackling fire. In this scenario, someone will deliver morning tea on a silver tray with delicate pastries. After all, I’m working hard; writers cannot be disturbed from their […]
Prosper
I’m reading in Psalm 1 about the person who “delights in the law of the Lord” and who “meditates on it day and night.” This person gains a special privilege. We’re told that “whatever he does prospers.” Prospers! Don’t you think of wealth and success? Don’t you think of some kind of gain? I’m learning […]