Freedom to Keep "It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery" (Galatians 5:1, NIV). Soldiers of freedom's cause bled into the earth upon which we've founded our nation. The principles of honoring all…
Undefeated by Darkness
"In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God ... In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it" (John 1:1,4-5, NIV). Clouds obscured the sun and marred the late spring daylight…
Love Isn’t for Romantics
I'll be sending love to my husband from a distance this Valentine's Day. He has an extended business trip for which I cannot join him due to my own commitments. So our embraces will remain spiritual, stretching from the mountains to the oceanside. Our thoughts and wishes will not touch more than…
3 Secrets to Facing Change with Strength
An army of pines surround my home. Towering a hundred feet over our moat of grass, they toss their needled heads against the passing clouds. Howling gales bend their pulpy extremities to brush against one another. Sleet pelts through their branches and slaps their trunks. Should any one of these elderly…
Believing the Invisible
“'I am the Lord’s servant,' Mary answered. 'May your word to me be fulfilled.' ... and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. In a loud voice she exclaimed: '... Blessed is she who has believed that the Lord would fulfill his promises to her!'” (Luke 1:38.41-44). I once heard a call…
Broken, But Not Beyond Repair
Guest post by Dena Yohe Over ten years ago, my husband and I started a ministry to brokenhearted parents. A mom whose child almost died sent me an email one day: “As a parent, getting the news that your child is gravely (and perhaps mortally) injured is life altering. I had…
My Dwelling Place
"Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty" (Psalm 91:1, NIV). Gales whirl in a violent uproar outside my office window. Hail batters the roof like a viral-shaped threat to any who would dare brave the outside world. The tears of…
Emotions as Allies, not Dictators: Sustainable New You Habits
Some face relationship issues while others suffer from loneliness. From disappointments to frustration or even anger, this week's circumstances could rattle your heart. In fact, any given time of year can present us with a torrent of emotions. We can rise on a wave of happiness with high expectations and…
Manageable Mindset Shifts: Sustainable Lifestyle Habits
January has three weeks bulging under her belt. Many of this month's early-date fans now resent her as much as their own waistlines. Unlike the fickle masses, statistics maintain a consistent view of January. She reflects human nature's tendency to launch with the boldest of aspirations only to crash into…
Spirituality as a Lifestyle: Sustainable New Year New You Habits
Our last discussion offered the overview of our whole-person makeover series to launch your new year with habits you can sustain forever. We noted the importance of taking small, maintainable steps toward the lifestyle which blesses the rest of your days. The significance of addressing all areas of our well being…