Devotionals
Oxygen for the Fire
“This is why I remind you to fan into flames the spiritual gift God gave you when I laid my hands on you.” — 2 TIMOTHY 1:6 (NLT)
My husband and I always dreamed of having a wood-burning fireplace. In the cooler months, we would swoon at the smell of firewood burning as we drove through neighborhoods.
Last summer, our dream came true. God blessed us with a home that included a beautiful wood-burning fireplace. Not only that, but the previous owner left us stacks of wood to carry us through our first winter in our new home. Score!
Doing Hard Things Afraid
“We also pray that you will be strengthened with all his glorious power so you will have all the endurance and patience you need. May you be filled with joy …” Colossians 1:11 (NLT)
As I stood with my hands raised and one foot forward, the floor looked so far away. I was nervous. I was paralyzed. I had already done it successfully once that morning, but fear gripped me. Each time I tried again, fear foiled my follow-through.
God Is Right Beside You
“I know the LORD is always with me. I will not be shaken, for he is right beside me.” — Psalm 16:8 (NLT)
This summer was a whirlwind. It included my oldest niece’s graduation, my first cousin’s funeral, several business trips and lots of homework. Simultaneously, I was jumping through the never-ending hoops required to buy and move into a home.
Jesus Makes Time for You
“We must quickly carry out the tasks assigned us by the one who sent us. The night is coming, and then no one can work. But while I am here in the world, I am the light of the world.” John 9:4-5 (NLT)
One evening earlier this spring, around 7 p.m., I got a text from a dear friend. Though we don’t talk much, she’s still like family to me.
You Have Been Prepared
“But Moses protested to God, ‘Who am I to appear before Pharaoh? Who am I to lead the people of Israel out of Egypt?’” Exodus 3:11 (NLT)
I don’t like feeling unprepared. There is something in me that wants to cross all my t’s and dot all my i’s. Preparation makes me feel like there is a greater chance of success ahead of me. And I like to be successful at whatever I do.
No Longer Separated
“For God’s will was for us to be made holy by the sacrifice of the body of Jesus Christ, once for all time.” Hebrews 10:10 (NLT)
There is a feeling I am all too familiar with. I’ve felt it at a work conference and at a church gathering.
It’s the feeling of being separate. Not good enough. Not with the “in” crowd. Lacking access to critical resources or key people. Feeling like a wallflower.
Unseen. Unimportant. Unwanted.
Dear Burdened: Just Come.
“Then Jesus said, ‘Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.’” Matthew 11:28 (NLT)
No Enhancements Required
“For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother's womb. I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well.” Psalm 139:13-14 (ESV)