Forgive to be Forgiven?

Forgive us our debts as we also have forgiven our debtors … For if you forgive others their trespasses, your Heavenly Father will also forgive you, but if you do not forgive others their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.  Matthew 6:12, 14 ESV Do you think God really meant that?   Am I really only forgiven as much as I am forgiving? Remember the parable of the man whose great debt the king forgave?  That man, who had been forgiven so much, demanded payment of  a ... [Read More]

Visions of Autumn {Giveaway}

{Giveaway is now closed. Thanks to all who entered.}   The leaves ... the crisp air ... the clear skies.   The past few days have been absolutely gorgeous here in North Alabama.    We've enjoyed the vibrant colors of autumn after missing them for ten years while we were way down in South Georgia.   Yes, the leaves sometimes end up in corners and we find ourselves exhausted, weary, and in spiritual apathy.  But sometimes, it seems just the opposite.   The leaves fall and this season ... [Read More]

A Prayer for the Orphans

Orphan Sunday. That the need for such a day even exists leaves my heart aching. But it does ... and we know this, God Himself is passionate about orphans! In fact, a measure of our own depth of love for Him and relationship with Him is our concern and involvement in orphan and widow care (James 1:27). The need is great, the opportunities are many. Across the globe and for most of us, across the street as well. A Prayer for the Orphans Lord, we are overwhelmed by the numbers and ... [Read More]

Relevant, Element, and Rest

It was amazing.   I cherish every moment of the time I spent with friends ... and learning, so much learning. Sure I learned about blogging basics with this incredible woman and listened as three amazing people shared their insights into blogging about big needs ... I was a wide-eyed listener as this couple taught on the business of blogging.   Joy reminded me how important community - local and bloggy - is.  Laura poured the sweetest blessing over me  - the majesty and glory of spending ... [Read More]

{Joy Day 24} Stand Firm in the Lord

For many, of whom I have often told you and now tell you even with tears, walk as enemies of the cross of Christ.  Their end is destruction, their god is their belly, and they glory in their shame, with minds set on earthly things. But our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, who will transform our lowly body to be like his glorious body, by the power that enables him even to subject all things to himself. Therefore, my brothers, whom I love and ... [Read More]

{Joy Day 23} Let Us Hold True

Let those of us who are mature think this way, and if in anything you think otherwise, God will reveal that also to you.  Only let us hold true to what we have attained.  Brothers, join in imitating me, and keep your eyes on those who walk according to the example you have in us. Philippians 3:15-17, emphasis added Welcome Sunday!   The past seven days have been long and filled with many difficulties, worries, and fears.   What a sweet reminder from these verses this morning ... Let us hold ... [Read More]