On this New Year’s Day, we begin a new trip around the sun, full of expectations, hopes, and goals. Is one of your goals to draw nearer to God? He longs for each of us to know Him more, to trust Him more, to love Him more. Success comes from joining our small efforts with His great will. It comes as we study His word daily, call on Him daily (sometimes hourly!) and trust Him even when nothing makes sense.
Tag: Jesus
What I learned when I stopped complaining for 24+ hours
Two weeks ago, our family traveled from Texas to Nevada so my spouse could go rock-crawling in our jeep. Having just written and brainstormed about curbing complaining, I was determined to implement it on the trip. I learned plenty of good lessons that I hope will help you as you work on kicking this habit.… Continue reading What I learned when I stopped complaining for 24+ hours
For Those Questioning the Effectiveness of Prayer after the Sutherland Springs Shooting
In the aftermath of the mass shooting at Sutherland Springs Baptist Church, there’s been plenty of blame and finger-pointing. There’s also been something else: People mocking those praying for the situation. This derisive attitude toward prayer is nothing new, but it may stir up doubts as to the effectiveness of prayer or the power of… Continue reading For Those Questioning the Effectiveness of Prayer after the Sutherland Springs Shooting
How to Stop the Complaining Contagion
Complaining is like a virus; if one person starts complaining, the negative sentiments spread like wildfire. Sometimes it’s called grumbling, muttering, or discontent. Whatever we call it, these grumblings have a way of seeping into the very fabric of our personality. Instead of being the joyful lights God intended us to be, our mutterings make us just as gray and gloomy as the rest of the world.
If You Wish You Had a Different Story
In the animated film Cars, Lightning McQueen—a popular rookie race car—does a commercial for his sponsor, Rusteeze, advertising their Medicated Bumper Ointment. He plasters a smile on his face and chimes, “Use Rusteeze… and you too can look like me! Ca-chow!” The humor lies in the irony. It would take a lot more than one… Continue reading If You Wish You Had a Different Story
When You’re On Sensory Overload
The sink is overflowing with dishes and more have migrated to the countertops. Piles of laundry wait expectantly to be washed, folded or put away. Your kids seem to think that their outdoor behavior works indoors. Suddenly, you hear glass shatter nearby as the dog's tail makes contact with a vase. The phone is pinging.… Continue reading When You’re On Sensory Overload
A heart in tune
O Thou Fount of ev'ry blessing, Tune my heart to sing Thy grace; Streams of mercy, never ceasing, Call for songs of loudest praise. Teach me ever to adore Thee; May I still Thy goodness prove; While the hope of endless glory, Fills my heart with joy and love. Here I raise my Ebenezer, Hither… Continue reading A heart in tune
Prayers for Parents of School-Aged Kids
As we press through August and into the fall, we will see frequent signs that school is back in session. Gradually, a few parents will develop a worry line or two. Homeschool moms may find themselves sobbing as perfect lesson plans implode in the face of another autistic episode. Another mom may be quietly sobbing in an empty room as their youngest child moves three or three hundred miles away from home in pursuit of a college degree. A dad may be getting stomach ulcers worrying about the safety of his daughter around all those teenage boys. On top of all the back-to-school changes, these parents are still facing life with all it's pressures and frustrations. Are we sensitive to their needs? Are we reaching out to be supportive? Encouraging? Helpful?
A Prayer Before Worship
Dear Heavenly Father, I approach your throne of grace with joy this morning as I prepare to worship you today. You are worthy of all glory, honor, and praise. You are my creator. You have given me purpose. You have redeemed me through the blood of Your Son, Jesus Christ. You demonstrate perfect justice, and… Continue reading A Prayer Before Worship
The Right Relationship Changes Everything
This is the final installment in the series, "The Effects of Knowing God." To read the previous post, click here. Relationships have the potential to change us. Much depends on our character, stubbornness, and admiration of the people we are connected to. Sometimes our knowledge of a person will draw us closer to them, possibly… Continue reading The Right Relationship Changes Everything
Elihu's Corner 