Developing Deep Roots

“But blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him. They will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green. It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit.” (Jer 17:7-8)

Most of Oklahoma, but especially the area in southwestern Oklahoma where I grew up, is experiencing extreme drought right now. Less than a year ago, we had one of the wettest summers on record. It rained so much that I couldn’t keep up with the yard work. When it finally stopped raining long enough for me to mow, the thick grass was so tall and wet from the rain that it was hard to get the mower through it. Continue reading “Developing Deep Roots”

The Struggle of Waiting

“But as for me, I will look to the Lord; I will wait for the God of my salvation; my God will hear me.” (Mic 7:7)

Lilly stood on all fours on the back of the couch, growling low in her throat and looking toward the door. Her growl grew in intensity until it became a full-fledged bark, almost drowning out the chime of the doorbell. She bounded off the couch and raced to the door, alternately scratching and jumping at the door frame, barking the entire time. I grabbed my bowl of candy off the table near the door, took a deep breath, and opened the door. Continue reading “The Struggle of Waiting”

Taking the Next Step

“In their hearts humans plan their course, but the LORD establishes their steps.” (Prov 16:9)

Several years ago, I decided to go back to college to get my master’s degree. In my mid-thirties, working full time, and out of school for over 10 years, graduate school was a whole new world. Online classes were now available (and sometimes the only option). I felt overwhelmed and out of place. Continue reading “Taking the Next Step”