Tag: Jesus Christ

Jumping on the Air Fryer Bandwagon

Posted on by Staci Mauney

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. (Rom. 8:28)

A couple of weeks ago, I bought an air fryer. I know what you’re thinking—what took you so long? Right? Air fryers have been around for a while now, and their popularity has only increased, not waned.

I’m slow to jump on any bandwagon. For example, when I was ten, the New Kids on the Block burst onto the scene, but I couldn’t be convinced they would stick around. I’m not sure where this skepticism came from, but I do know that I was one of the only pre-teen girls of my generation who didn’t have a poster of the boy band on my bedroom wall. I did eventually listen to their music—and I even liked it!—but I never bought into all the hype.

When it came to buying an air fryer, my arguments against one were practical in nature. I have a tiny kitchen with little counter space and few plugins. Where would I put it? Where would I store it? I don’t fry much—maybe once or twice a year. What would I cook with it that I couldn’t fix in my oven? Continue reading “Jumping on the Air Fryer Bandwagon” →

When Strivings Cease

Posted on by Staci Mauney

“Be still, and know that I am God.” (Ps. 46:10)

Even though I would like for life to slow down at Christmastime, it rarely does. In fact, it usually speeds up. With plays and parties, baking and decorating, Bible studies and special church services, it seems there’s more to do than at any other time of the year.

I don’t know how your Christmas season has been, but my plans for a quiet month of rest and reflection disappeared quickly as I spent long days, nights, and weekends working; dealing with a COVID scare (thankfully, I tested negative, but it canceled several of my activities); and walking beside friends who are going through some really hard things. Continue reading “When Strivings Cease” →

The Specter of Perfectionism

Posted on by Staci Mauney

This entry was first posted on May 26, 2019.

“It is God who arms me with strength and makes my way perfect.” (Ps 18:32, NLT)

Years ago, my parents and I worked on a house painting project together. Usually, my dad and I work well together. However, for that project, it seemed neither of us could do anything right. I wanted the room to look perfect when we were done, and I had a vision of the final version in my head. My dad didn’t do things my way, and I didn’t do things his way, so I almost scrapped the entire project before we started. My mom, caught in the middle, gave up and left us to it. In the end, we talked it out, compromised, and finished the job, which turned out better than I had hoped. Continue reading “The Specter of Perfectionism” →

5 Bible Verses to Celebrate Easter

Posted on by Staci Mauney

“He is not here; he has risen!” (Lk. 24:6)

Because of Jesus’s sacrifice on the cross, we can live a victorious life connected to him. By his grace, our sins are forgiven. Today, on Resurrection Sunday, I want to honor the occasion by sharing five verses to turn our hearts toward Jesus and lift our spirits. Continue reading “5 Bible Verses to Celebrate Easter” →

You Can’t Always Get What You Want

Posted on by Staci Mauney

Do everything without grumbling or arguing. (Phil. 2:14)

I scurried into my office and pushed the door shut behind me. In my hurry, I didn’t make sure it caught. There was a slight gap between the door and the frame—just wide enough for a curious Yorkie to stick her nose through. As I connected to the Zoom meeting, I heard snuffling, and the door swung open as Lilly ambled in.

She walked in a circle, ran to the door, and skidded to a stopped. She turned and stared at me, trying to communicate telepathically. I tried to focus on the discussion on the screen, but Lilly’s pacing distracted me. Suddenly, I realized the problem—she had gotten in, but the door wasn’t open wide enough for her to get out.

I opened the door, and she scampered out without another glance. She had gotten what she wanted—to be in the same room with me—but once she got it, she decided she would rather be in the room she had just vacated. Continue reading “You Can’t Always Get What You Want” →