encouragement
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Prison of Pressure: “You’re on Your Own!”
“You’re on your own!” Is that a curse or a blessing? I find myself wavering on a tightrope stretched between independence and reliance. Independence sounds amazing in theory. It says: I am responsible. I am dependable. I am capable. I take pride in my efforts and my ability to “just get it done.” But the…
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Facing a Goliath: The Champion and the Shepherd
Facing Your Goliath Are you facing a “Goliath” today? It might be a daunting life situation, an overwhelming mountain of tasks, or a season of deep self-doubt. Perhaps you are standing before a problem that seems to have no solution—an issue you know you cannot handle alone. It feels too big, too strong, and it…
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The Wild One Falls: Lessons from a Two-Year-Old
I have three children. They are awesome. Being very close in age (the three of them were born within three and half years of each other) allows for ample play together. My son, the middle child, can best be described as a “bro”. He is your buddy, he is fun, he is silly, he is…
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I Will Not Waste This Wait: Chains Will Fall Later
Am I a waiter? Not the kind in a restaurant, though the principle is the same. A waiter relies on a customer to have a need, to enter the establishment, and to place an order. Without that customer, the waiter simply leans against a wall, sits in a booth, or folds napkins. Their purpose remains…
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You Don’t Have to Prove Anything
Scripture Reflection: Matthew 27:12-14 “When he was accused by the chief priests and the elders, he gave no answer. Then Pilate asked him, ‘Don’t you hear the testimony they are bringing against you?’ But Jesus made no reply, not even to a single charge—to the great amazement of the governor.” The Courtroom of the Living…
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Hop Up! You Are Strong Enough
As a parent it is difficult to watch your child struggle. My youngest daughter has consistently been on the small side. She has remained in the 2nd percentile for her age throughout her life. People see her and think she is so cute. In 3rd grade she was confused as a kindergartener. She hates this,…
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Beyond
To A Degree Greater Than 2.20.26 Beyond: “To a degree greater than”. I took a group of 40 middle school students on a field trip across the country. This meant flying on a plane, walking around an airport, staying in hotels, staying with host families, going into restaurants, attending programs at a variety of locations,…
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An Encouraging Word
Find ways to offer and receive encouragement in daily life. Small acts can make a big difference in someone’s day.