We've all been there... At a crossroads, with a decision that has to be made. A decision that could change our life. We're not talking about what kind of cereal to buy, what toothpaste to use or whether to upgrade now or wait for next year's iPhone. No, this is a...
“My Heart – Christ’s Home” – How a Simple Story Changed My Quiet Time
It's amazing how a little thing can make such a big difference... As a 28-year-old pastor's wife, I longed to connect in a meaningful way with the Lord, but I didn't really understand how much the Lord longed to connect with me. But then I read a small story that...
Living in the Embrace of Forever Love
This past week we celebrated my parents' fifty-fifth anniversary... Fifty-five years. Quite a milestone in a world of disposable, easy-come-easy-go love. But the half-century mark wasn't a surprise to us, their kids. Growing up my sister, brother and I always felt...
Refresh & Recalibrate Pt 2: A Personal Retreat With God
An extended time alone with the Lord… Though it may sound intimidating, I believe that everyone who belongs to Jesus truly longs for a more intimate friendship with Him - even in the midst of a crazy, busy life. Last week, I wrote about a “Divine Reset for Your Soul.”...
Get More Out of the Bible by Reading Less (Really!)
I know it's hard to believe, but it's true... Reading less scripture may be the key to a deeper, sweeter relationship with the Lord than you've ever known. We need to know the whole counsel of God. Reading the entire Bible is an important goal for every Christian....
“Word of God Speak 2016” Bible Reading Plan
It’s hard to believe that 2015 is almost over! I’ve enjoyed reading “Thru the Bible Chronologically” with many of you this past year on Facebook. It’s been so rich and wonderful to read the comments you've posted, gleaning from the insights God's given you through...
The Ultimate Christmas Gift Exchange
We often talk of the price Jesus paid when He died for our sins… But have you ever considered how much it cost Christ to come to earth, to take on flesh and dwell among us? My husband preached a beautiful sermon on this topic, and on this almost Christmas Eve, I...
The Best Christmas Pageant Ever
It's easy to forget... In the midst of the hustle and bustle of Christmas, it's easy to forget the One we celebrate. Allowing Jesus to become part of the periphery of our lives, rather than making Him the center. When I get distracted like that, I love to read the...
How to Use a Devotional in Your Devotions
Meeting Jesus every day... If you're like me, you know you need to prioritize daily time alone with the Lord. But how to do it? That's the question. Back when I was a young mom with small children, I struggled to develop a regular quiet time. Because I didn't ...
Christmas Home Tour 2015
I love Christmas! To think that much of the world, in one form or another, stops and celebrates Christ’s birth is beautiful to me. Though it's easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of the season, I especially love it when Christmas is celebrated with a Mary...
Giving Thanks – A Prayer
My heart is so full of gratitude... God has blessed me in so many ways, and yet, so often, I overlook the simple gifts of life. Worse, I discount them and so I forget to give thanks. Perhaps this little prayer (found in a collection of Puritan prayers) will remind...
Why Doing Less Could (Really) Be Doing More
Do you feel overwhelmed? Let me tell you a story my good friend, Rosemarie Kowalski, allowed me to share in my book, Having a Mary Heart in a Martha World. It’s a message of hope for everyone who feels they’ve been given more than they can bear. The story is told of a...