“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”
“You are judging by appearances…” (2 Cor 10:7)
Lately, I’ve been hearing a lot about the importance of book covers. When browsing in a bookstore, most people will decide if they are interested in the book in mere seconds just by the design on the cover. Ebook covers are just as important because online shoppers devote even less time to peruse your book cover. If the buyer keeps your book in her hand long enough to turn it over and read the blurb, you may have found a new reader. Continue reading “From the Inside Out”
“David also said to Solomon his son, ‘Be strong and courageous, and do the work. Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the LORD God, my God, is with you. He will not fail you or forsake you until all the work for the service of the temple of the LORD is finished.’” (1 Chron 28:20)
I had the opportunity to meet Bruce Campbell, the actor from the TV show Burn Notice and The Evil Dead movie franchise, at a book signing recently held at a local bookstore. This was a big deal for a couple of reasons: 1) to date, he’s the most famous person I’ve met; and 2) I attended the book signing alone, something I probably wouldn’t have done even just a year ago. And meeting him was one of the most amazing experiences I’ve had. Continue reading “Meeting Bruce Campbell”
“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” (2 Cor 5:17)
Have you ever watched a hermit crab change shells? My best friend, Casey, raises hermit crabs, and has described the elaborate process to me. Hermit crabs will approach a new shell, spin it around, and examine it to make sure it doesn’t have any holes in it. Then, they stick their heads and legs inside to examine the interior and see if it’s smooth. If they like it, they will climb out of their old shell and into the new one. If it doesn’t fit quite right, they will come out of it and put their old shell back on. Continue reading “Changing Our Shells”
“When I am afraid, I put my trust in you.” Psalm 56:3
During the hottest part of the summer, I woke up at 6:00 a.m. to walk my dog, Lilly. Even though we left early, the temperature was already in the low 80s. Oklahoma summers can be brutal. One of the parks that we go to has a really pretty fountain on one end. On this particular day, we walked over to the fountain. It’s located in slight depression, so Lilly and I walked down the steps and circled the fountain a couple of times. She jumped up on the edge of the fountain, peered into the water, and promptly jumped in, startling me. She resurfaced and started paddling for the edge, but she couldn’t reach it to get out on her own. I lifted her out of the water, and she took off running to dry off, dragging me behind her as I held onto her leash with all my strength. Continue reading “Focus on God, Not Fear”