Tell me about a time someone was there for you in a powerful way. So much so that you were able to separate yourself from the pain, even for just a few moments, because you were so blessed by his or her words, deeds, or sacrifice. Did a specific instance or season of life come to mind? For me, it was the time my mom dropped everything and spent the day with me when I desperately needed her attention. Multiple people have blessed my life and they all deserve a giant hug and thank you; but, for some reason, this story stands out to me – probably because I know how organized and determined my … [Read more...]

“Religion that is pure and undefiled before God, the Father, is this: to visit orphans and widows in their affliction, and to keep oneself unstained from the world.” (James 1:27, ESV) Within a two mile radius of where you are sitting right now, someone is hurting. We are busy people, heavily focused on our tasks and providing for the needs of our family. We can get caught up in a religious routine of going to church, reading our Bibles quickly before heading to work, and praying as we fall asleep at night; but, according to James 1:27, God expects more from His people. We are called, every … [Read more...]

Valentine’s Day is a beautiful day filled with hearts and some of the greatest candy money can buy; but, for some, Valentine’s Day is the toughest day of the year. It is the day which reminds them of their loneliness, the day they remember a love who got away, or the day they grieve the loss of a loved one who used to make them feel like the most important person on earth. In thousands of homes, apartments, dorm rooms, and basements across the world, men and women are waking up, stretching, and thanking the Lord that Valentine’s Day is over. Love Goggle Syndrome The most logical, … [Read more...]

What do you enjoy most about Valentine’s Day? The hearts everywhere? The fine dining? The gifts? The cards? Being among happy couples? What do you dread most about Valentine’s Day? The hearts everywhere? The crowded restaurants? Not being able to walk five feet without seeing another bouquet of roses? The big I LOVE YOU! cards brazenly displayed in your face? Being among sickeningly happy couples? Valentine’s Day brings up a variety of emotions. Even those in happy relationships may loathe the expectations set by such a “special” day. Others who are not in relationships may still love … [Read more...]