Are we always aware of temptation? Are we always aware of the risks in our everyday world? Or do we just dismiss them as normal, never bothering to be on our guard?Upon retirement, my husband and I began seeking ways to have more sunshine and warmth during the long...
"It does not, therefore, depend on human desire or effort, but on God's mercy." (Romans 9:16 NIV) One of the hardest lessons I have had to learn as an adult is to rely on God's mercy instead of my own drive, desire or effort. Just a few minute ago, I was washing the...
Last Thursday, in "The Light, Part 2", we saw from my habit of shining my flashlight on my prayer list while walking with my dog before the sun comes up, that we can become distracted, even by "good" things, even by things that God may have called us to do; and the...
I had heard about the size, abundance and toxicity of Australian spiders. This was, in fact, the only thing that put any kind of a damper on my enthusiasm for visiting this fascinating continent. I would learn, however, that the stories were a bit larger than life....
We're all familiar with the story: Esau, famished from his hunt, sold his birthright for a bowl of lentil stew: "One day when Jacob was cooking some stew, Esau arrived home from the wilderness exhausted and hungry. Esau said to Jacob, 'I'm starved! Give me some of...
We have become aware in recent years of the problems associated with consuming large quantities of refined foods. We see a push towards whole grains and less-refined sweetening options; but if you delve a bit deeper into the issue, you will see that it isn't what is...
Valentine's Day. The time of year when we each remember how much we love that special someone. We try to spend time together, we go out to dinner, we buy each other presents, cards and flowers...It is truly a celebration of the love we share. At my house, Valentine's...
This is dedicated to anyone out there who isn't sure how to walk the fine line between pride and poor self-esteem... As I read the encouraging words in the email, I could feel the twangs of emergence as my archenemy, "Pride" began to show its ugly head. You see, pride...
As I finished a major project last night, one that had been taking up the majority of my time since August, I let out a victory shout. I fully expected my husband to join in, but he didn't. Surprised, I realized he was wearing earphones and didn't even hear my cry of...
We all want that, don’t we? We long to improve, to be more successful in our endeavors and strive to be a better person. “I’ve noticed a change in me,” my friend said on the phone. “I’m trying so hard to be more gentle, to be more understanding and patient,” she said....