Coming from His Hand

When I find myself in situations where I don’t feel the best, or on days when nothing seems to go well, I continue to learn to rest in God’s active work in my circumstances. When I see all things as coming from His hand, as ordained by Him, allowed by Him, and governed by Him, […]

Refreshment Part Two

I woke up this morning with this verse on my mind: “The generous will prosper; those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed” (Proverbs 11:25). I love reading Proverbs to learn this counterintuitive way of living. Who can I refresh today? To whom might I show generosity?  

Recharging, But Not Too Much

Today I learn two fascinating concepts about refreshing oneself. When you think of the concept of refreshing, or what some call recharging–like rechargeable batteries for example–you’ll quickly note that the process requires an outside energy source. You cannot recharge yourself. It’s a small and obvious thing to note, but the fact draws me nearer to God. […]

Resting Under Trees

I love the great trees surrounding my backyard. I love sunlit leaves, gold on green, and the sound of the summer breeze.

A Wise Word for Tired People

Sixteen years ago, I stood outside the arena where our mission’s conference took place. I wasn’t participating. I was too tired, too discouraged, and too disoriented as I pushed a stroller with a crying baby in it. I couldn’t do anything. I wandered into an area where a group of intercessors met to pray for […]

Step Away to Pray

Happy 4th of July! On this day, I think of stepping away to pray, to seek peace, to inquire of the Lord about our families, our friends, our nation. I think of stepping away to gain wisdom, to confess sin, and to humble ourselves before God.

Imagining the End

Last night, I read some wisdom about picturing the best result of the goals you have for your life. It’s like this: think about what success in some area looks like, how it feels, and what this goal would mean. Then, think of today–where you are right now–and make a small choice to work toward […]

The Coziness of Dark Storms

The sky darkens, and we hear the thunder echo across the neighborhood. We feel so bundled up, so cozy inside the house. It’s always this way with storms. They are scary, yes, but we are in a position of safety.  The darkness cannot hurt us; it just makes us draw closer and light more candles. […]