As a writer, I’ve been taught the importance of a hook. It’s what grabs your reader’s attention and makes them want to read more. Most of the time the hook is found in the opening sentence, but that’s not always the case. For instance, I often use my blog titles as my hook, or my …
These two words have the power to push me back into my shell. It’s a wicked dance. I crave praise. I want what I do, to be seen as good and worthy. I spoke at a women’s church gathering years ago, my title was I Want to Be Better Than You. Quite the snobbish sentiment, …
I’m having a bit of a crisis today. I’m realizing I would rather do what I want — read, drink tea, and eat chocolate — than do the things that will get me what I want. There are times when I kick myself into gear, but the strong desire to do things that are pleasing …
Continue reading When Doing What You Want Doesn’t Get You What You Want
Are you a To Do List person? Do you like making a list and checking things off? I usually turn to lists when I’ve been sitting around for a week and finally berate myself into accomplishing something. But where do our lists come from? Are the items on your To Do List merely household chores? …
This picture is the complete opposite of me. She is fierce and strong. While I am squishy and full of fear of failure. Yet, look at what this scripture details: What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare …
Don’t you love when the Holy Spirit gives you confirmation? I had already decided to write about this subject when my daily Bible plan brought this scripture: Let the whole earth sing to the Lord! Each day proclaim the good news that he saves. Publish his glorious deeds among the nations. Tell everyone about the …
Have you watched The Chosen? As I thought about what to write, I remembered watching and being struck by how human they had portrayed Jesus. But wasn’t that key to Jesus mission? So, let’s dive into the Man of Sorrows. Who has believed what he has heard from us? And to whom has the arm …
This quote is not what I would have expected to hear from God this morning. I’m sure it isn’t what you would expect me to write about, either. But I understand it and I will explain. I’ve been depressed and in more pain than usual and was struggling with the notion of writing an encouraging …
I’ve just returned from my writers conference with mixed emotions. On one hand, I met some major goals and learned some usable information. On the other hand, I now have new information that I’ll need to put pen to paper, as the saying goes, and incorporate those lessons into my writing. It feels like I’ve …
Continue reading When You Think You’ve Climbed a Mountain When You’ve Only Crested a Hill
Have you ever had one of those days where you need to stop fretting and remind yourself of all the blessings you have? Or maybe it’s been more like a week, a season, or a year that has drawn you down into thoughts of how difficult your life is or how broken the world has …
The Far Reaches of Grace 