From Our Hearts

DEVOTION: When we think of what we want in life, joy & peace rank high. In God's Word, we have the source of both! But to enjoy these two desired qualities, we must follow the apostle Paul's 'to-do' list. What does this look like? What are we to do?

DEVOTION:  Whether we're facing a flooded kitchen, a distressing medical diagnosis, or a challenge at work ... there is one thing that gives us the ability to think straight and face our giants. 

Do you see your home as a gift from God to be used for the comfort and well-being of others? A question to ask ourselves in this holiday season is, “Who can I open my arms and my heart and my home to?” Here are helpful hints on how to open your home on Thanksgiving.

During Operation Desert Storm, my husband Jim’s Army unit began preparing to go to war.  As we finalized our will, discussed with our daughters the possibility Jim may not come home, and updated insurance forms, I tried to cope with fear, anxiety, & uncertainty. Here's what I learned about managing emotions. 

As we pray against the ungodly influences that could cast darkness over our families, our children, and our hearts, here are three scriptural ways to watch out for false teachers.

It’s soooo easy to get in the habit of putting off unpleasant tasks. Rather than procrastinating, God gives you a better way of getting things done.

If you’re rushing in all directions at once, stop. Breathe. Have you included any time with God? Starting our day with God changes our priorities and offers us peace.

Have you noticed how few people know their neighbors these days? It might seem convenient to not be overly involved with other people around you, but Jesus calls us to a deeper relationship with others. Here are some practical ideas on how to do that.

If you're an overwhelmed mom, may I encourage you? Spend time finding comfort through your Bible and prayer. Make this time a priority — and a necessity. Ask for God’s grace to just stop, leave the messes alone, and look to Him for His patience and for a quiet spirit. 

Titus 2 says older women are to teach younger women. And those of us who have daughters must realize the priority to be “teachers of good things" to our daughters and granddaughters. 

One day it hit me hard just how many life-altering events could happen in a person’s near and distant future. What a relief to know that God's grace will prepare and accompany us through whatever comes.

Depending on your age, you aren’t even thinking about being a wife. However, statistics tell us most women marry. If there’s a chance that might be true of your future, then a look at the qualities of a godly husband won’t hurt, will it?