STAY
“You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You” (Isaiah 26:3–ESV). Stayed–v. (past tense) to continue or remain in a place. It’s one of the first commands many dog owners teach their pups– Stay! Among others, like…
Above All, Jesus
This is a dark, dangerous world, Little One. It doesn’t take more than several seconds tuned in to the television to know, and just open the newspaper. But yesterday, despite the heaviness that weighed–the barbell a yoke bearing weights of worry, fear, and sorrow–I found…
When We Fear Our ‘War Room’ Failed
…O ye of little faith (Matthew 6:30–KJV). What happens when the War Room doesn’t work? That’s how a woman I know began a recent post. It was quite a hook, and I read on. She continued by telling in detail how her marriage had been failing,…
Lesson Learned Through an Unexpected Teacher
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest…” (Matthew 11:28 NIV). Her hair was matted, bits of trash littering the curb upon which she sat. As I approached, I paid particular attention to the crosswalk signal beyond her. Realizing…
Our One Reliable Source of Truth
“For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding” (Proverbs 2:6–CSB). –pedia (suffix)–that which is related to learning. Anyone else remember a good ‘ol set of encyclopedias? As a child, our family had two sets, in fact–a black Collier (circa 1972ish) and a newer…
Oh Mr. Lee, You’re the ‘Violin’ the Lord Loves
“But now, this is what the Lord says–He who created you… He who formed you…: ‘Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are Mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when…
A Meaningful Lesson in a ‘Not-So-Mo’ Moment
“A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger (Proverbs 15:1–NIV)” The other afternoon, I had what I’d call a “Not-So-Mo” moment. There I was, having a really good day, not feeling particularly snarky or irritable, nor easily miffed. It had…
Dwelling Place
“How lovely is your dwelling place… I long and yearn for the courts of the Lord; my heart and flesh cry out for the living God. Even a sparrow finds a home, and a swallow, a nest for herself where she places her young… How…
Rodeo Dream Realized on a Horse Named Smoky
“Take delight in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart” (Psalm 37:4–NIV). Ever since our daughter Allie was a wee one, when her sudden presence in our home still seemed much like a dream come true, she’s loved horses. Unlike many children…
Rising from Bitter to Behold the Begotten
This is a personal portrayal of Naomi, Ruth’s mother-in-law. To read the entire biblical account, see Ruth from the Old Testament. ******* How many times has my heart been broken? The ash heap became a familiar place, I promise you. My wailing, too, to those…