Articles
Persuading Vs. Presenting
Do you know the difference between presenting ideas and trying to persuade someone? We're attempting to persuade someone when we're convinced we're right and we're trying to get the other person to agree with us. If this is the case, we shouldn't pretend to be seeking...
The Importance of Clarifying
Have you ever been misunderstood? Have you ever misunderstood someone else? If you have, then you understand the importance of asking clarifying questions. My husband often reminds me of things and I appreciate that because I can be forgetful at times and, even if I...
Encouraging Vs. Motivating
Do you know the subtle difference between encouraging someone and trying to motivate them? If you know it, and apply it, people will appreciate it! We're encouraging someone when we come alongside them in something they're already motivated to do. We're attempting to...
Missed Blessing
Recently, a lack of faith caused me to miss an opportunity to bless my husband. He and I had gone out on a date. After we were home, he realized he'd left his wallet behind, and said he'd have to go back for it. Instantly, the thought came to my mind, "Offer to get it...
From Anxiety to Praise
When distressing situations come up, I need to remember to pray for a calm spirit and for insight into what God's doing. Here's a recent example of God's faithfulness in an anxiety provoking situation: I was taking my husband, Tom, to the airport. I'm scheduled to...
Sandpaper People
Have you ever had people in your life who annoy you? I have. I call them my "sandpaper people" because I know God's using them to sand the rough edges off of me. God's goal is to make me more like Jesus: full of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness,...
God’s Faithfulness In Our Mistakes
I believe that the only "failure" in life is if we fail to learn from our mistakes and change for the better. God is eager to redeem our mistakes by teaching us valuable lessons. So, when we make a mistake, instead of asking God why He allowed it, we should ask Him...
Making Decisions? Seek God First!
I'm going to share a mistake I recently made and what I was reminded of through that mistake. One Sunday, after the church service, I approached the pastor who oversees small groups and said I was praying about leading a women's group using the book I published on...
Fillet My Soul
Recently, while three of our young grandchildren were fishing (with adult assistance), they were delighted to catch some trout. Later, they learned that before the fish could be cooked, it had to be gutted and cleaned. They also learned that it takes skill to properly...
Resource: Grandma was right after all!
I highly recommend the book, Grandma was right after all! (Practical parenting wisdom from the good old days) by John Rosemond to anyone still raising children (or to anyone who works with children or wants to be a positive influence in children's lives), especially...