“I take pleasure in my weaknesses, and in the insults, hardships, persecutions, and troubles that I suffer for Christ. For when I am weak, then I am strong” (2 Corinthians 12:10 NLT). “Will you please
Read moreTag: encouragement
Thankfulness and all the Colorful Flavors of Fall
Thankful for all the flavors? While the abundance of fall and my favorite season’s harvest means more to me than picking apples in North Carolina, baking pumpkin pies, or roasting huge turkeys, I smile with
Read moreFall Back, Not Under
Germany and its World War I Allies began the practice on April 30, 1916, to conserve energy and daylight. America soon followed suit. When I was a child, I relished the extra daylight hours Daylight
Read moreWaiting…Not Patiently
I placed the order…and then waited. What else could I do? What I did do was mark my calendar four weeks into the future. I wouldn’t get impatient until then. Since deliveries of most things
Read moreGrace Giver
Elizabeth Keckley was a slave in Missouri before the Civil War. Keckley’s greatest desire was purchasing freedom for herself and her son. Her owner told her that if she could raise $1,200, she could have
Read moreMy Good Father
He raised us like a shepherd tending to his flock, Quiet strength and kindness his banner. He instilled within us the value of honorable work And covered us with favor like a wool blanket.
Read moreHow I Started Recycling: An analogy of our Father’s method for change
I recycle because I have a friend who recycles. I mean, I have a friend who recycles. She carries a bag with her when she goes on walks simply so she can pick up trash. When
Read moreTaking a Walk
I had reached the age of twelve, and Dad kept his promise. Dad loved to hunt and eat squirrel—and wanted me to also. I heard the hinges squeak on my bedroom door. Dad peeked his
Read moreMom’s Never-Failing Gift
I had settled into my dorm room, survived the first few weeks of life away from home, and established a routine for classes and study. With a mixture of excitement and uncertainty, I looked forward
Read moreGetting Clean
COVID ran rampant, and I was scared to get clean. Only once before had I gone more than three days without a shower—when my daughter and I had backpacked for five days and had no
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