When you pray, say … (3)

Forgiveness is not optional. It is a command. Jesus taught his followers (and us) how to pray. Part of the prayer is: “forgive us our debts as we have forgiven our debtors.” And just in case the disciples didn’t catch the forgiveness part, he reiterated and explained in more fully. “For if you forgive men… Read More

When you pray, say … (2)

This part is all about trusting God. Do I really believe that He cares for me–in good times and bad. Or do I step in with my plans, my agenda, my wants. God has given me a promise. And He has a plan and a purpose for me. How does this play out in my… Read More

When you pray, say …

I pray (quietly in my head, out loud, singing, whispering, drawing …) the Lord’s prayer daily. It helps me to focus on putting God in the center of my life. It also reminds me of what prayer is–not just a list of my wants, but that it includes thanks, praise, and worship.      The… Read More

Are you only half awake?

For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. Psalm 139:1, (NIV) Learning to know yourself and recognizing God’s design of you is the first step in awakening your spirit. It allows you to drop unhealthy habits and expectations, to leave the past behind, and to step into the life… Read More

Ebenezer

My life is in flux—my husband and I are entering a new chapter and both of us are in the waiting mode to see where God leads us now. He is retiring from full-time teaching; I am, after a 4-month re-entry into part-time work at the Write Place, again approaching the great unknown—on what will… Read More

Colossians 3:5-6 Is your life shaped by things and feelings instead of God?

When you are on your death bed, what is going to matter? Your fancy car? Your vacation home? Your gold medals or other awards of earthly achievements? You are going to meet God–just you without your fine clothes, toys, or possessions. He is going to asking you what you chose in life. What will your… Read More

End the vicious cycle of one-upmanship

In order to forgive, we need to identify with the person who sinned against us. Isn’t that what Jesus did when he came to earth? He became one with us—became our sin. That is how sins are forgiven. In order for us to forgive, we need to enter into the Gethsemane prayer with Jesus: “Abba,… Read More