“Just remember: God had a plan for our life long before anyone had an opinion.” My daughter repeated these words while sharing a conversation with one of her close friends. She talked about certain struggles when this wise friend encouraged her with these life-giving words. I could not believe my ears. The wisdom came from a 13-year-old boy. And even though he may have heard it from an adult, it blessed me beyond measure to know that my girl is surrounded by children who understand and Continue Reading
An Invitation to Mend the Mother-Daughter Relationship – LINKUP {The Atlanta Journal Constitution}
“Those from among you will rebuild the ancient ruins; You will raise up the age-old foundations; And you will be called the repairer of the breach, the restorer of the streets in which to dwell.” These promise-filled words are found in the second part of the Old Testament book of Isaiah, where the restoration and promise of future blessings for Israel through her Messiah were foretold by the great prophet. Isaiah’s words, particularly chapters 40-66, have been a source of great Continue Reading
When You Lack Self-Control {The Atlanta Journal Constitution}
Not being able to govern events, I govern myself” Michel de Montaigne The Church School Journal is a Bible student’s magazine originally printed in 1910, which includes various commentary illustrations intended to be used by Sunday School teachers and preachers. While browsing this timeless gem, I came across a story told by Henry Ward Beecher that beautifully illustrates the power of self-control. Beecher was an American preacher and social reformer, who lived in 19th-century New York state. Continue Reading
A Reflection on the Pain of Betrayal – LINKUP {The Atlanta Journal Constitution – Palm Sunday}
Historians offer us a glimpse of the appearance of Jerusalem and its vicinity at the time Jesus entered the city on “Palm Sunday.” It was Passover season, therefore open grounds and perhaps the side of every hill Jesus passed by on his way from Bethany were covered with tents and temporarily erected structures. Even early in the week, every available inn and house inside the city walls would have been full. History is not left without certain data which give us a fair estimate of the actual Continue Reading
A Winning Strategy during Difficult Times {The Atlanta Journal Constitution}
April is here and excitement is building in our house. Our oldest is a junior in high school and has experienced the hardest academic year of her life. Needless to say, summer does not arrive soon enough for our 16-year-old. In my corner of the world, however, the unwinding of her junior year is not as exciting. It means we start filling out endless scholarship forms, finalize college visits and look at every aspect of sending our first-born to college. It’s a bittersweet, hectic time, Continue Reading
Sympathy – Two Hearts Tugging at One Load {Recharge Wednesday LINKUP}
Our Daily Bread is a well-known ministry established in 1938 by Dr. M.R. DeHaan as a radio program called Detroit Bible Class. Over the years, it has expanded to offer various resources to millions of people around the globe, including podcasts, publishing, topic-based studies, as well as their well-known daily devotionals. I was browsing through some of my writing resources when I came across a story used in one of Our Daily Bread's devotionals which powerfully illustrated a sentiment that Continue Reading
