By Still Waters

Psalm 23 is one of the most beloved passages in Scripture—but when was the last time you truly let it sink in? In Still Waters, you’ll receive a fresh perspective on the Shepherd who leads, restores, and stays with you through every valley. Let this devotion be your invitation to pause, breathe, and find soul-deepContinueContinue reading “By Still Waters”

God Loves the Prodigal’s Mama Too

One beautiful, benign, spring day, my phone buzzed with an unknown number. I answered it anyway. “Is this Mercia’s mom? I’m  here with her in the college parking lot, and she’s about to drive her car into a brick wall.” As I raced out the door and through town, I begged God to spare myContinueContinue reading “God Loves the Prodigal’s Mama Too”

Word Crimes

inspired by Psalm 51 and War of Words by P.D. Tripp Have mercy on me, O God,because you are hesed.I’m counting on your faithfulness,mercy, and steadfast loveto delete my sinful words andto wash my mouth out with soap. Not just my mouth,but also my heart attitude.You are the one who’s most offendedalthough others have been slicedContinueContinue reading “Word Crimes”

The Purpose of Prayer

We know that prayer is an edict, an expression, and an exchange, now let’s look at what it accomplishes. Prayer transports us into the presence of God. What we need more than anything else – more than money, a new job, or healing – is God Himself. If I have Jesus, I have all IContinueContinue reading “The Purpose of Prayer”

Embrace the Grace

Growing up in church, I thought all pastors’ families were supposed to be perfect. At least, that was what was to be portrayed. They were always smiling, always serving, always hospitable, and the children were always obedient (insert adult eye roll).  And I don’t know how I acquired the false idea that some sins wereContinueContinue reading “Embrace the Grace”

Everyone Loves a Road Trip

Everyone loves a good road trip—the freedom of the open road, escaping the everyday chores staring us in the face at home, and the novelty of experiencing new places. Sometimes the destination is unknown and everything about the trip becomes a chance to explore new vistas along the way. Or kids bounce up and downContinueContinue reading “Everyone Loves a Road Trip”

The Ultimate Victory of Jesus

*This is a guest post by my friend Kim Findlay. Find her blog, books, and Bible studies on her website. * Their steps were heavy with grief as they walked toward the tomb early that morning. Silence hung in the air between them, reminding them of their sorrow. How could he be gone? Shock stillContinueContinue reading “The Ultimate Victory of Jesus”

Satisfaction Is in the Sanctuary

I used to be a complainer. I mean, like really. In spite of the sign I still (as an empty nester) have in my house that says No Whining. I complained to fellow worship team members about having to get up so early on a Sunday morning. (And totally missed the irony of that.) IContinueContinue reading “Satisfaction Is in the Sanctuary”

Sticky and Sweet: Church Relationships

“It was the best of times; it was the worst of times.” Although Charles Dickens was referring to mid 19th-century England, I suspect many of us could say the same about our relationships within the organized church. We all know that the church should be a refuge, a hospital for sinners and the weary, yetContinueContinue reading “Sticky and Sweet: Church Relationships”

Introducing the Midlife Faith Group!

A few months ago, I had the privilege of being interviewed by Angie Baughman on her podcast Steady On. We chatted about all kinds of life stuff, especially what happens when we get to the middle-aged stage of life (defined by many as ages 40-65ish). I’m pretty sure I had a moment and totally forgotContinueContinue reading “Introducing the Midlife Faith Group!”