The story of the Samaritan woman has popped up many times in my life lately. Whether in a sermon, study, or on the radio—The Woman at the Well has continued to knock on the door to my heart.
All in Encouragement
Keep it Simple
A few months ago we sold our home. We wanted more time to discern what God’s plan was for our future, so we are living in our farmhouse. It is much smaller that our former home, about half the size. Many of our things are in storage because the farmhouse was already furnished. I am realizing just how many extra things I had in our larger home. We are living comfortably with a lot less stuff.
A God Assignment
What neighborhood do you live in? Where do you work? Who do you live with? Where do you shop? Who do you often pass by without even noticing?
Shifting Shadows
Millie, my daughter’s dog, chases moving shadows in almost frantic obsession. Her shadow-chasing reminds me of James’ description of God as the Father of heavenly lights who does not change like shifting shadows (James 1:17b).
Adrift
“Oh no, that baby turtle is way out in the middle,” I cried. “It should swim closer to shore where the water is shallow!” My granddaughter and I watched that hatchling paddle onward toward the deeper water. I feared for the little turtle until I realized, “No turtle ever worries about how deep the water is!” God designs turtles to swim, and this baby swam toward the deep water with confidence.
God’s Perfect Timing
At the beginning of the year, I buy an appointment book to keep me organized. This is my attempt at time management, which I’ve never been adept at.
Comfort of the Best Kind
Comfort, I had never really thought about it that much until reading a story about a little girl who needed her mother’s comfort and actually asked for it.
Rooted in Love
Recently, we had a fun day visiting a nearby tulip farm. Rows and rows of beautiful brightly colored tulips!
Staying on Track
Mall walking… have you done this?
It is a walk around an indoor shopping mall, so you can look at the items on display as you pass by the windows. It is a form of entertainment and exercise… or so they say.
Everything Has a Purpose
I have seriously questioned the purpose of some things on earth.
Like termites. No one wants them. They will eat your house right down.
Shipwreck
Have you ever felt an impending “shipwreck” looming on the sea of life? The waves of distress feel insurmountable and going under for the last time inevitable. Looking off in the distance, only the disaster seems visible, not the remedy.
Senioritis
Have you ever heard of Senioritis? A conversation with High School or College Seniors may contain that word. Seniors have tired of studying, going to class, and the routine of school. The anticipation of their next endeavor could stand in their way of finishing strong.
Go With Us!
I am taking a large group of teenagers from Texas to Austria in the coming months. I am already working hard in planning and preparation. I have promised to go with them, to be ready to handle the details of our travel as well as the unforeseen encounters. And I’ve promised to bring them home safely. It is a sobering task.
God Fights For Us
Has God ever given you an assignment that you were so excited about you shared it with others so they could be excited too? Maybe they would join in on the work of the assignment? Did it go so smoothly and problem-free? Or did you hit some snags?
The Gift of Encouragement
Holidays can be sad days for many, especially those who are lonely. Holidays can also be depressing for many reasons. We busy ourselves with so many activities that we become tired, confused, and feel as though we are walking through a maze.
Living by Faith
Scholars wonder about the prophet Habakkuk’s name. It’s only used in this Old Testament book, and it’s written in a non-standard Hebraic form. They believe it’s likely related to an extinct eastern language referring to the Habbaququ fruit tree. Imagine his challenge of having such a one-of-a-kind name among his teasing peers. My children can imagine. They carry a Polish last name (containing even more letters) that’s unique to this area of the country. I told them often that their name made them distinctive.
Thanksgiving is More than a Holiday: The Writer Who Knows Me
From the beginning, God has known me. He knew the parents I would be born to and the country, state, and town where I would be born. He knows everything about me!
The Promise That Kept Going
I listen to Christian music throughout the day, so it’s no surprise that’s how I hear God speak many times.
Tapestry of Friends
I got an unexpected email this weekend from the first babysitter who ever kept my boys.
The Power of Joy
The prophet Habakkuk recorded a third prayer to God. This prayer was in the form of a song written for the choir director to be song with stringed instruments. Habakkuk responded to what God foretold of the judgment of Israel by the invading Babylonians. Even though God declared that He would defend His people with His mighty arm, Habakkuk "trembled within" as he waited quietly for the Lord’s deliverance.