Stretching into the Future

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” (Josh 1:9)

When I look back over the last few years of my life, I see how far God has asked me to move out of my comfort zone. I started my own business, moved to a new city, joined a new church, and led a regional writing organization. But just when I think I’ve stretched as far as I can go, God asks me to do even more. Continue reading “Stretching into the Future”

The Enemy of the Good

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” (Prov 3:5-6)

I’m a big believer in goal setting. I set goals that span the year, and I’ve learned to break those goals into smaller chunks so that they’re more manageable. Reaching my goals, whether it’s the large ones or the smaller ones along the way, gives me a great sense of accomplishment.

Goal setting is backed by scientific research, and it’s also scriptural. While we won’t find a checklist in the Bible, we do see those in the Bible setting goals and striving for them. Moses’ goal was to lead the Israelites out of slavery and into the Promised Land. John’s goal was to proclaim the coming of the Messiah. And Jesus’ goal was “…to seek and to save the lost” (Lk 19:10). Continue reading “The Enemy of the Good”

Using My Talent

“The man who had received five bags of gold went at once and put his money to work and gained five bags more. So also, the one with two bags of gold gained two more. But the man who had received one bag went off, dug a hole in the ground and hid his master’s money.” (Mt 25:16-18)

This week, I received print copies of my devotional book, Echoes of Joy: 30 Days of Experiencing God’s Grace, currently available on Amazon. I started blogging almost seven years ago at the encouragement of a friend. When I decided to write my first book, I wanted to base it on my current devotional blog. Earlier this year, I finished my devotional book and released it as an ebook. I had so many requests for a paperback book that I decided to have print copies made. Continue reading “Using My Talent”