Feeds:
Posts
Comments

Archive for the ‘Encouragement’ Category

Impact

Posted in Encouragement, Excellence, Faith, God-Given Abilities, Godly Character, Holiness, Obedience, Perseverance, Service, Success, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , on May 7, 2026| 42 Comments »

Chances are you’ve never heard of Dixie Thompson. She was the music director for one of the churches my husband pastored. Descriptors for Dixie would include:

(We performed “I’ll Be Home for Christmas” in 1998. That’s me on the right.)

  • Gifted; directing all aspects of a musical (instruments, choir, players, narrator, stage crew, sound technician, etc.–and making it look easy)
  • Talented; bringing the best out of each participant
  • Good listener; not interrupting, seeking to understand
  • Unflappable; calm under fire
  • Encouraging; often writing notes of appreciation

When I happened to be with Dixie at a restaurant or store, we’d always run into people she knew. And everybody wanted to talk to Dixie. She made each person feel important to her.

Much sooner than we would have liked, God chose to take Dixie home to heaven. She died of a brain tumor several years after my husband had been assigned to another church.

Hundreds of people attended her funeral. And the numerous stories told that afternoon gave indication of Dixie’s widespread impact.

Does that sound appealing—to influence for good the people around you?

In fact, that’s a normal desire:

“The drive to significance is a simple extension of the creative impulse of God that gave us being . . . We were built to count as water is made to run downhill. We are placed in a specific context to count in ways that no one else does. That is our destiny” [1].

But to accomplish our destiny requires determination. Determination to:

Accept who we are and where we are (Psalm 138:8)

‘Feeling ordinary? Insignificant? Unseen? Your feelings are lying to you!

“There is no such thing as an insignificant person or an insignificant place or an insignificant position” [2].

Granted, some people are like Waterford crystal, refracting the light and drawing praise. Others of us feel as forgettable as a compost bin.

Just remember: Crystal can be fragile, but that unremarkable compost bin offers “rich possibilities for fertilizing the lives of others” [3].

Pray to be prepared (Psalm 143:10)

“God’s recipe for significance is to get low, not high, to commit our plans to the Lord in prayer, not to move ahead without a sense of his blessing and guidance ”[4].

We can pray each day that God will work and speak through us to benefit those we encounter.

Invest in others (1 Thessalonians 5:11)

“A life isn’t significant except for its impact on other lives” (Jackie Robinson).

And impact occurs as we help and support, share and give, listen and encourage, challenge and celebrate those around us.

Cumulate words and deeds (Zechariah 4:10a)

“Never underestimate the power of a simple act of kindness or an encouraging word” [5].

Sometimes what seems like ordinary conversation and ordinary gestures actually add up to far-reaching impact.

I think of my grandmother, whose steady faith over the course of her life, her consistent kindness, overriding serenity, and more still inspire me, more than fifty years after she went home to her beloved Jesus.

Model / Be an example (Matthew 5:16)

An impactful example can occur even when we’re unaware.

“With every deed you are sowing a seed, though the harvest you may not see.”—Ella Wheeler Wilcox.

Words are seeds too. Even an overheard conversation might be just the catalyst to turn a mind toward Christ.

[Be] Tenacious of faith (1 Corinthians 15:58)

We can determine to be tenacious, faithful, and watchful people, always attentive to those persons God puts in front of us, and seeking to honor him by honoring them. Then “we trust there will be fruit whether we see it or not” [6].

Stir these actions into your life . . .

  • I nvestment in others
  • M odeling / Be an example
  • P rayers of preparation
  • A cceptance of who we are and where we are
  • C umulation of simple words and deeds
  • T enacity of faith

. . . and you will indeed provide IMPACT in this world, an impact that extends into eternity.

No doubt people are still entering heaven’s gates who were impacted by the legacy of Dixie Thompson, and even of my dear grandmother.

[1] Dallas Willard, The Divine Conspiracy: Rediscovering Our Hidden Life in God, quoted by Sara Hagerty in Unseen, 40.

[2] Anne Graham Lotz, The Vision of His Glory, 77.

[3] illustration from Maggie Wallem Row, This Life We Share, 15.

[4] Dane Ortlund, In the Lord I Take Refuge, 359.

[5] Dorothea Shields, https://liviingmagazine.net/a-life-of-significance

[6] Hilary Yancey, contributor to A Moment to Breathe, 135.

Image credits: Steve Ruegg; http://www.pickpik.com; http://www.canva.com; http://www.pick.pik.com; http://www.canva.com; http://www.dailyverses.net; http://www.canva.com.

Do sign up below for the monthly newsletter that includes a THANK YOU GIFT: Thirty ways to stretch and enhance our gratitude to God.

Scroll to the end of the newsletter to access this resource!

By clicking submit, you agree to share your email address with Mailchimp and me to receive the newsletter. Use the unsubscribe link in those emails to opt out at any time!

Processing…
Success! You're on the list.

Read Full Post »

Our All in All

Posted in Bible Study, Blessings, Encouragement, Jesus, Prayer, Renewing the Mind, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , , , , , , , on April 30, 2026| 39 Comments »

(A personal praise-psalm)

You, Lord Jesus Christ, are our Source of everything—the salvation of our souls, the sustainer of our lives, the sufficiency in all our circumstances, the Supreme One over all (Colossians 1:16-18)!

For example:

As you, O Christ were raised from the dead . . .  we too may live a new life (Romans 6:4).

Our lives can be marked by wholeness, contentment, freedom, authentic fellowship with you and with each other. “It’s life as it was always meant to be”*—if we choose it.

In you, O Christ we become new creations (2 Corinthians 5:17).

You give us new views, new desires, new motives, new principles to live by, new plans for our lives, new purpose. 

I praise you that over the decades you’ve been working these entities into my life slowly but surely. (I’ve been the slow part, you are the surely part!)

With you, O Christ, we are heirs of God and fellow heirs with you (Romans 8:17).

God is our Father and we are his. We’re under his care, privileged with access in his presence, blessed with his peace, joy, and more. He is our King, and one day we will live with you, Lord Jesus, in our Father’s kingdom of heaven.

Because of you, O Christ, we can come boldly and confidently into God’s presence (Ephesians 3:12 NLT).

You have made it possible for us to draw near–no matter how unworthy we may feel–into the safety, security, and warmth of God’s presence. There we can turn over our burdens to him and rest in his love.

Through you, O Christ, we can do all things which you call us to do (Philippians 4:13).

You provide the inner strength and power to fulfill God’s purpose for us; you make us ready for anything and equal to anything!

The converse is also true:

Apart from you, O Christ, we can do nothing (John 15:5).

Our Father God didn’t design us to be self-sufficient, independent creatures. Relationship was his key motivation for creating us. The greatest outcomes result from working together with you, Lord Jesus, and also the greatest joy.

For you, O Christ, we’ve been commissioned as ambassadors (2 Corinthians 5:20 ESV).

We’re your representatives, privileged to act and speak on your behalf. We get to invite those around us to receive your gift of eternal life and begin a life-changing relationship with you. 

No other gift is as desirable; no other privilege more thrilling.

From you, O Christ, we receive an anointing (1 John 2:20a) for our work as your ambassadors.

Just like the kings and prophets of Old Testament times, you set us apart for special purpose, giving us divine authority and blessing as your servants.

You provide the Holy Spirit—our Helper, Teacher, and Guide, who empowers, transforms, renews, and more.

On you, O Christ, we fix our thoughts (Hebrews 3:1), because . . . 

. . . “What we focus on is what we become” (Epictetus, Greek philosopher).

How glorious to become like you—loving, selfless, humble, and gracious—all those beautiful qualities you demonstrated when you lived on earth. 

Shalom is sure to follow.

To you, O Christ, be glory (2 Peter 3:18)!

You are the source of all blessings. From you and through you and to you are all things.

May all see the splendors of who you are and what you do; may all desire to know you and enjoy every benefit you graciously bestow.

Amen!

*https://thegracecommentary.com/romans-6/

Image credits: http://www.canva.com; http://www.pexels.com (igovar igovar); http://www.needpix.com; http://www.canva.com; www. easy-peasy.ai.

Do sign up below for the monthly newsletter that includes a THANK YOU GIFT: Thirty ways to stretch and enhance our gratitude to God.

Scroll to the end of the newsletter to access this resource!

By clicking submit, you agree to share your email address with Mailchimp and me to receive the newsletter. Use the unsubscribe link in those emails to opt out at any time!

Processing…
Success! You're on the list.

Read Full Post »

Sacred Hands Behind the Scenes

Posted in Appreciation, Blessings, Encouragement, Faith, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, God's Provision, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , , , on April 23, 2026| 40 Comments »

Just for fun, I pulled my God Is Faithful journal off the shelf and flipped the pages to several decades ago—years when Steve served in the pastorate, our three children still lived at home, and I was a stay-at-home mom, then teacher.

God certainly worked behind the scenes for our family and created magnificent poetry. Here are a few examples:

THE POETRY OF ANSWERED PRAYER

11-11-85 I prayed with N. concerning a worrisome visit with her disagreeable aunt that afternoon. The next day N. told me the visit went beautifully. No doubt God not only worked through N., but prepared her aunt’s heart also.

9-27-89 I’d been praying God would affirm Steve during a difficult season. On this date he received a kind and supportive note from a parishioner.

11-7-89 The books my students had ordered from Scholastic Books were long past due for arrival. I’d forgotten to xerox the order form and checks before sending them snail mail, and now had no proof-of-purchase. (This was before online ordering.)

That night I prayed for God to intervene for me. When I arrived at school the next morning, there was the book-order box on my desk.

THE POETRY OF GOD’S FAVOR 

6-18-86 A man came to our door with my wallet in his hand. He’d found it on the sidewalk several blocks away, where I’d somehow dropped it while returning home from an errand. (I’d walked in order to incorporate exercise into the day.)

I hadn’t even realized yet my wallet was missing!

1-13-88  I didn’t set the alarm properly, but awoke anyway the next morning—out of a sound sleep—at 5:15 on the dot, just when I was supposed to get up.

12-26-92 During our family Christmas Brunch (just the five of us—no visiting family), Steve asked the children what God had done for them in 1992.

E. said God had helped him become more focused and motivated at school. H. said he’d helped her feel better about herself and she’d been happier since the mission trip that summer. J. said he was thankful to go to a good school. 

We enjoyed a great time of family togetherness, focusing on God and his participation in our lives.   

THE POETRY OF GOD’S INTERVENTION

3 -25-88 I made it to Spring Break! In spite of 1,000 things to do in an impossible time frame, God brought me through. Actually, what He did was remove about 900 of those tasks!

I couldn’t believe how one thing after another took care of itself or was postponed. God worked out everything superbly.

6-1-89 I drove H. to ballet class in Steve’s new stick-shift Colt, so pleased that muscle-memory kicked in and we arrived with no mishaps or “frogging.” But after parking the car, I mistakenly left it in neutral.

When I came out of the school the car was not where I’d left it, but had rolled across the aisle into the matching spot on the other side, as if I’d parked there instead.

(Sometimes I feel like such a toddler in God’s family—he has to watch over me every minute!)

10-9-90 A contentious issue in our church came to a vote. We heard rumblings that some unhappy people were urging a “no” vote. But the discussion proceeded smoothly with a prevailing spirit of unity, and in the end a strong majority voted “yes.”

God had worked in people’s hearts; Steve felt as though we’d turned a corner.

5-29-92 I was registered to attend a week-long class, held at a hotel. When I arrived the desk clerk said the class had been canceled. Just then, another attendee, Ruth, approached the desk. We deliberated about what to do.

Though it was early evening on a Friday and the offices of the host school would likely be closed, we decided to call anyway. 

A woman just happened to be there who told us the location had been changed to another hotel. Ruth and I were among those who’d registered early, before the change, and somehow had never been notified.

*     *     *

God’s sacred hands do indeed weave poetry into our lives! And . . .

You’ve no doubt experienced episodes of God’s goodness similar to those described above. Please share an example in the comments below.

Your illustration of God-woven poetry may be just what someone else needs to read!

Image credits: http://www.commons.wikimedia.org; Nancy Ruegg; http://www.pickpik; http://www.canva.com (2); http://www.needpix.com.

Do sign up below for the monthly newsletter that includes a THANK YOU GIFT: Thirty ways to stretch and enhance our gratitude to God.

Scroll to the end of the newsletter to access this resource!

By clicking submit, you agree to share your email address with Mailchimp and me to receive the newsletter. Use the unsubscribe link in those emails to opt out at any time!

Processing…
Success! You're on the list.

Read Full Post »

Uplift

Posted in Bible Study, Blessings, Encouragement, Faith, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, God's Power, God's Promises, God's Provision, God's Refuge, God's Strength, Hope, Intimacy with God, Meditation, Peace, Praise, Prayer, Renewing the Mind, Seeking God, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , , on April 16, 2026| 48 Comments »

A prayer in the midst of distress:

Heavy concerns weigh upon my heart, Lord,

beyond my abilities to remedy.

My thoughts bounce from faith-affirmations 

to faltering “what-ifs.”

I wonder, “How long, O Lord; how long?” (Psalm 6:3)

And so I come, to curl up on your footstool (Psalm 132:7), 

to rest in your comforting presence ( Psalm 62:1),

to catch my breath, slow my heart rate, and

look to you for uplift in my mind and spirit (Psalm 145:14).

I hear your tender voice reminding me:

“I am watching over you (Psalm 121:8),

surrounding you with my unfailing love (Psalm 32:10). 

Just as I’ve promised in my Word,

I will provide guidance for the path ahead (Proverbs 3:5-6)

and the power to endure (Isaiah 40:29).

I am faithful in all I do, never forsaking those who seek me (Psalm 36:5; Psalm 9:10).

Remember, I have always been your help (Psalm 46:1);

I have always sustained you through every challenge (Isaiah 41:10).”

Thank you, Father, for your reassurances.

Already I feel strength returning to my soul (Psalm 138:3)

and hope cheering my heart (Psalm 94:19).

I praise you for your attentiveness (Matthew 10:29-31)—

your watchful care, unfailing love, and reliable guidance, 

your unstoppable power, everlasting faithfulness, and ever-ready help.*

I picture you reaching down,

cupping my chin in your hand,

and lifting my head to look into your eyes (Psalm 3:3)—

eyes that speak-without-words of your love,

compassion, patience, and forgiveness.*

And in my heart I hear you reaffirm:

“Know this:

As you come into my presence and

allow me to lift your head (Psalm 3:3)—

To encourage, edify, and inspire your spirit,

I will bestow multiple blessings, including:

ALLEVIATION—

As I firmly support you to bear these burdens (Psalm 68:19),

ANTICIPATION—

for the intervention I can provide (Isaiah 64:4),

CONSOLATION—

to ease the distress (Matthew 11:28-29).

INSPIRATION—

to press on with confidence (Galatians 6:9),

LIBERATION—

 from crippling guilt and nagging doubts (Romans 8:1; Isaiah 41:10),

MANIFESTION—

of my comforting, empowering presence (Psalm 23:4), and

RESTORATION—

of hope to fuel your spirit and faith to carry on (Isaiah 40:31).

“Then the uplift of your spirit will become evident

In the uplift of your face (Proverbs 27:19),

as trust supersedes concern, and

expectation displaces doubt.”

I praise you, Lord—

You’ve heard my cry for mercy.

You are my strength and shield;

my heart trusts in you, and you help me (Psalm 28:6-7).

Hallelujah!

*Psalms 103 and 145 celebrate many of God’s awesome attributes.

Image credits: http://www.pixnio.com; http://www.stockvault.net (Mohamed Hassan); http://www.dailyverses.net; http://www.pixabay (Simon); http://www.heartlight.org; http://www.dailyverses.net; http://www.pickpik.com; http://www.heartlight.org; http://www.commons. wikimedia.org; http://www.publicdomainpictures.net.

Do sign up below for the monthly newsletter that includes a THANK YOU GIFT: Thirty ways to stretch and enhance our gratitude to God.

Scroll to the end of the newsletter to access this resource!

By clicking submit, you agree to share your email address with Mailchimp and me to receive the newsletter. Use the unsubscribe link in those emails to opt out at any time!

Processing…
Success! You're on the list.

Read Full Post »

With Fear and Great Joy

Posted in Bible Study, Blessings, Encouragement, Faith, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, God's Power, Jesus, Joy, Suffering, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , , on April 9, 2026| 26 Comments »

The women were Mary Magdalene and the other Mary, mother of the disciple James. They’d witnessed the crucifixion of Christ, had been present when Joseph of Arimathea buried Christ, and arrived first at the tomb that Sunday morning, to anoint their Lord’s body with spices.

But as they approached, a violent earthquake threw them to the ground and an angel, bright-white as lightning, descended from the sky. Even the Roman soldiers guarding the tomb became frozen with fear.

The angel paid them no attention and set about rolling the massive stone away from the tomb. Then he sat upon it. The women warily peeked inside; Jesus wasn’t there.

No doubt they huddled in fear as these events unfolded in rapid succession. But the angel reassured them, “Do not be afraid.” He then announced Christ had risen from the dead, and they must go quickly to tell his disciples (1).

Can you imagine their conversation as they hurried to the upper room where these men would likely be gathered?

“I’ve never been so frightened in all my life! My heart is still pounding.”

“And I’m still shaking! Have you ever seen someone glow like that?”

“No indeed! 

“I can scarcely believe what he told us. How is this possible?”

“Jesus did raise Lazarus from the dead. It must be true.” 

“But what if the disciples don’t believe us? They’re going to think we’re crazy.” 

And so, with trepidation the two Marys made their way to the house with the upper room. 

Yet their hearts were also filled with joy. Jesus was alive! It was the most glorious news they could hope to hear. And they’d been chosen to announce it.

____________________

We too experience fear and joy at the same time, in spite of the fact these emotions occupy opposite ends of the spectrum.

Think how you felt when hired for that highly-desired job. Worries may have included: Will I be up to the task? Able to fit in with other employees? Get along with the boss? But you were also thrilled for the opportunity God had provided, just as you’d hoped and prayed.

Think about your wedding day. You and the love of your life would soon promise to cherish one another for the rest of your days. The thought certainly brought great joy, but perhaps a niggle of fear as well. Will our love last, or will we fall prey to division?

Think about the birth of your first child. No other joy compares to bringing new life into the world. But, this tiny, fragile creature is now your responsibility for the next eighteen years—at least. It’s a fearsome thing to contemplate. 

This joy-and-fear combination is also part of our experience with God, all-powerful and awe-inspiring as he is, capable of fearsome acts. After all, he once annihilated an enemy-army of 185,000 in one night (2). 

To fear God—reverence him and highly respect him—is a wise choice!  

Then, as we face worrisome unknowns and fears begin to rise, we can still take joy in such blessings as:

  • God’s unfailing strength and goodness to carry us through
  • Scripture-promises to quiet our spirits
  • Enhanced intimacy with God as he draws especially near with comfort and encouragement 

And during the process of the unknown becoming known, we discover God’s plan includes multiple delights.

Steve and I saw this occur in all six churches where he served as pastor during forty years of ministry. Each seemed a fearsome challenge for different reasons, and yet we also felt the joy of expectation, to see what God would do.

And each church did provide multiple delights, as God blessed us and others.

Praise God, he “guides us only into that which will finally result in our joy and radiance, even if it means passing through pain”(3)–or fear, we might add.

Imagine the joy and radiance of the two Marys as they followed the angel’s instructions and made their announcement!

The same pleasure can be ours—in spite of fear—as we follow God’s guidance for us.

__________

Notes:

  1. Matthew 27:32-61; 28:1-8; Mark 16:1-7
  2. 2 Kings 19:32-36
  3. Dane C. Ortlund, In the Lord I Take Refuge, 90.

Image credits: http://www.publicdomainpictures.net (Marina Shemesh) & http://www.canva.com; http://www.freebibleimages.org; http://www.pxhere.com; http://www.commons.wikimedia.org; http://www.pickpik.com; http://www.dailyverses.net.

Do sign up below for the monthly newsletter that includes a THANK YOU GIFT: Thirty ways to stretch and enhance our gratitude to God.

Scroll to the end of the newsletter to access this resource!

By clicking submit, you agree to share your email address with Mailchimp and me to receive the monthly newsletter. Use the unsubscribe link in those emails to opt out at any time!

Processing…
Success! You're on the list.

Read Full Post »

More Precious Than Rubies

Posted in Encouragement, Faith, God-Given Abilities, Heroes of the Faith, Perseverance, Suffering, Uncategorized, Waiting on God, tagged , , , , on March 26, 2026| 38 Comments »

Mama pressed her cheek against Nabby’s forehead. “Your fever is subsiding. Do you feel up to reading?” 

Eleven-year-old Nabby nodded, as her mother refluffed the pillow. “What shall it be? A bit of European history? One of Papa’s theology books? Shakespeare?”

“All three, please! I’m so tired of lying here—again.”

Mama began straightening the bedding. “I know Nabby-Dear. This has been . . .what—your fourth illness this winter?”

Mrs. Quincy tucked the last corner of sheet and blankets. “There! That should make you more comfortable. Now I’ll get your sister to fetch those books from Papa’s library.” And she headed downstairs.

“Thank you, Mama.” Nabby called, grateful she’d soon have something to occupy her mind. 

What if Mama hadn’t taught me to read and write? she thought. Many girls in the colonies received no such instruction.

Books provided such delights, and during Nabby’s frequent illnesses, they offered welcome escape from the frustration of confinement. But God’s full purpose of her love for reading and writing had yet to be revealed.

At age nineteen, Nabby (now addressed by her given name Abigail), married her beloved John after a three-year courtship.

Abigail’s father, a Congregationalist minister, did not approve of the young lawyer and feared he offered little promise for the future.

The young couple settled in John’s hometown of Braintree, Massachusetts, south of Boston, about ten miles from Abigail’s parents.

John and Abigail’s home on the right; his parents’ to the left

Within the first year, a daughter was born, followed by a son three years later. Four more children would be added to the family; two would die very young. 

Abigail cared for the household and farm (tended by tenant workers), while John’s growing law practice took him throughout Massachusetts. Soon he was spending much of his time in Boston, so the family moved there in 1768.

Colonial Boston

By 1771, they were swept up in the fervor for American independence as the city suffered through British occupation. Abigail and John moved back to Braintree, away from the tension and danger.

John represented Massachusetts at the First Continental Congress in 1774, held in Philadelphia. From that point, through the pre-war years and the Revolution itself, John served the cause away from home.

The couple wrote a flurry of correspondence to one another, with more than 1,100 of their letters preserved to this day. Abigail’s reveal keen intelligence, extensive scripture-knowledge and strong faith.

For example:

In 1775 as danger mounted, she wrote to John:

“‘The race is not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong; but the God of Israel is He that giveth strength and power unto His people. Trust in Him at all times . . . God is a refuge for us’ (Ecclesiastes 9:11; Psalm 62:8).

“Charlestown is laid in ashes. The battle began upon our entrenchment upon Bunker’s Hill, Saturday morning about three o’clock, and has not ceased yet, and it is now three o’clock Sabbath afternoon” (1).

In 1776 colonists suffered shortages of food and supplies. She wrote: 

“He who fed the Israelites in the wilderness (Deuteronomy 8:16), who clothes the lilies of the field (Matthew 6:28) and feeds the young ravens when they cry (Job 38:41) will not forsake a people engaged in so righteous a cause, if we remember his loving-kindness” (2).

In 1777-1778, John traveled to France with Benjamin Franklin, to gain support for the war effort. John’s oldest son accompanied them.

Abigail wrote:

“I am sometimes thrown into an agony of distress. Distance, dangers, and oh, I cannot name all the fears which sometimes oppress me . . .

“. . . That we rest under the shadow of the Almighty (Psalm 91:1) is the consolation to which I resort, and find that comfort which the world cannot give” (John 14:27).

Post-Revolution, John helped draft the Treaty of Paris, served in various diplomatic roles including ambassador to Britain, then as vice president under George Washington, and finally John Adams became the second president of the United States.

The Adams’ home, beginning 1788

On Inauguration Day, 1797, Abigail wrote to her husband:

“You have this day to declare yourself head of a nation. And now O Lord my God thou has made thy servant ruler over the people (1 Kings 3:7), give unto him an understanding heart before this great people, that he may discern between good and bad, for who is able to judge this thy so great a people” (1 Kings 3:9; 2 Chronicles 1:10) (4)?

And John responded: “I never wanted your advice and assistance more in my life” (5).

No doubt Abigail Adams’ faith-filled wisdom, discernment, and encouragement continued to support John well as he served America for another four years. 

Upon her death in 1818, Abigail’s son John Quincy Adams and America’s sixth president quoted Proverbs 31:10 to describe his mother, that “her price was indeed above rubies.”

Notes: 

1. https://wallbuilders.com/resource/celebrating-abigail-adams/

2, 3, and 4. https://www.americanbible.org/engage/bible-blog/articles/abigail-adams-woman-of-valor/

5. https://www.frc.org/blog/2021/03/abigail-adams-force-womens-rights-and-abolition#gsc.tab=0

Additional source:

https://thehistorymom.com/2023/03/01/booking-it-through-history-first-ladies-abigail-adams/

Image credits: http://www.flicker.com; http://www.picrylcom.; jenikirbyhistory.getarchive.net; http://www.loc.getarchive.net; http://www.flickr.com; http://www.itoldya420.getarchive.net; http://www.picryl.com; http://www.commons.wikimedia.org (3).

Do sign up below for the monthly newsletter that includes a THANK YOU GIFT: Thirty ways to stretch and enhance our gratitude to God.

Scroll to the end of the newsletter to find this resource!

By clicking submit, you agree to share your email address with Mailchimp and me to receive the newsletter. Use the unsubscribe link in those emails to opt out at any time!

Processing…
Success! You're on the list.

Read Full Post »

The Favor of God

Posted in Blessings, Encouragement, Faith, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, God's Promises, God's Provision, Uncategorized, Waiting on God, tagged , , , , , , , , , on March 19, 2026| 51 Comments »

(An addendum to one of the stories in last week’s post:)

“John just called,” Steve informed me.  “He and his wife Peg will be in town on business this weekend, and want to visit the church on Sunday. What would you think of inviting them for dinner afterwards?”

‘Let me check with Mom—‘see if she can help,” I responded. “It would be nice to get acquainted with them ahead of our move.”

John served as chairman of the staff-parish relations committee for the new church Steve had been appointed to. In seven weeks we’d be moving from west coast to east coast in Florida, as determined a couple of months previously by those in charge. 

The visit in late April was arranged and dinner planned. My dear mother helped with preparations, since we were already stretched quite thin with Steve’s church responsibilities, mine as an elementary teacher, our three kids, and packing already underway.

As some of you know, we lived in parsonages during Steve’s ministry. Until 2010 or so, these clergy-homes were also supposed to be furnished.

At the time of this move we lived in a lovely middle-class home that fit the current guidelines for parsonages.

This house (over 2000 square feet), included four bedrooms, and even a study. It leant itself well to holding meetings in the living room while the children could be in a separate family room.

Three years previously the church had purchased the house and some new furniture. This is the home that John and Peg saw, as we enjoyed getting acquainted with them.

John would tell us later he was struck by the contrast between our current home and the one we’d be moving into—with approximately 1200 square feet of living space and long-outdated furniture. 

Storage would be another problem, given the insufficient kitchen cabinets, small closets, the detached garage (where bugs and critters could create havoc), no attic, and of course no basement in Florida.

John knew the time had come to provide their pastor a home similar to what other professionals with three-year advanced degrees own, that met the scripture-directive of “double honor for those preaching and teaching” (1 Timothy 5:17).

But John had to wait for the committee to meet and funding to be appropriated.

Soon after John’s and Peg’s visit, Steve and I traveled across-state to tour their church and parsonage. That’s when we realized some of the challenges to come—in the deficient housing provided and in the church situation.

On the way home, we heard Jeremiah 29:11 quoted on the radio:  

Days later, a devotional suggested repeating “all the promises from God’s Word you can remember.” I determined to write in my journal as many as I could find that fit our circumstances. including:

I knew God would enable the five of us to thrive in the small house, or he’d provide another home. But I struggled with “what-ifs.”

Meanwhile, John rallied the staff-parish committee; they voted “yes” for a new parsonage. A week later, the administrative board passed a resolution to purchase a four-bedroom house and allocate funds for some new furniture.

Still to come: a church-wide vote, with the district superintendent presiding.

Of course, a few hiccups occurred. After one disappointment, I wrote: “We still have our promises from our never-failing God. . . I put my trust in You, Lord, by an act of my will, not by what I see happening! 

“You know our needs, you know what’s best for this church. Guide us into Your plan in Your timing, and give us wisdom and grace to accept whatever You have for us. We do want what you want!”

And I copied more scripture-promises.

In mid-June, the move into the small house went smoothly.

A week later the church-wide conference voted by a wide margin to relocate their parsonage. 

Mid-July our daughter and I flew to Austin, Texas to meet my newborn nephew. Steve called one evening to say a suitable house had been found, similar to our previous home but a bit smaller at 1800 square feet. The kids would love the pool. 

I trusted Steve’s appraisal, and agreed the church should make an offer.

As our children started school, we were settling into our new home—just two blocks down the street.

Image credits: http://www.dailyverses.net; http://www.canva.com (3).

Do sign up below for the monthly newsletter that includes a THANK YOU GIFT: Thirty suggestions for stretching and enhancing our gratitude to God.

Scroll to the end of the newsletter to find this resource!

By clicking submit, you agree to share your email address with Mailchimp and me to receive the newsletter. Use the unsubscribe link in those emails to opt out at any time!

Processing…
Success! You're on the list.

Read Full Post »

Surprise!

Posted in Appreciation, Encouragement, Faith, God's Grace, God's Power, God's Provision, God's Strength, Maturity, Renewing the Mind, Uncategorized, tagged , , , , , , , on March 12, 2026| 44 Comments »

Our daughter-in-law’s alarm sounded at 4:00 a.m. a few Sundays ago. She needed to work on writing a grant, assigned to her on Friday and due the following Wednesday.

Of course, no time during the work-day had been provided. (How can bosses consider such directives appropriate?)

H. intended to accomplish several hours of work before church. But when she opened her laptop, a message proclaimed that a key code was needed.

WHAT key code?

H. checked her list of passwords; no code. And nothing she tried allowed her access. Finally she woke our son E., who’s quite computer-savvy. But he too was stymied.

H. got dressed and drove to her office to work there, frustrated by the time lost. E. continued his efforts to unlock the computer. He called Apple, but they couldn’t help without the code.

E. texted us to pray, then kept searching for a solution. About twenty minutes later he found what he called a back door, but still needed a password not on their lists.

“Lord, what might we have set as a password?” he prayed.

He sat for a few quiet moments, and suddenly, a scene from the first Ghostbusters movie popped into his head, when one of the characters used a password. E. typed it in:

And H.’s computer came back to life.

No doubt you tell stories of happy-surprises within your family, illustrating God’s attentiveness, generosity, power, and more.

But not all surprises fall into the “happy” category. 

UNHAPPY SURPRISES

They also come in the form of cancer diagnoses, family members announcing a divorce, or the company’s decision to relocate you across the country.

Doubts of God’s attentiveness and power begin to fester. What then? Debbie Macomber would challenge us to:

And Charles Spurgeon offers this nourishing faith food:

“We have gone through many trials. They have never been to our detriment but always to our advantage . . . He who has been with us in six troubles will not forsake us in the seventh. What we have known of our faithful God proves that he will keep us to the end.”

MIXED-BAG SURPRISES

A third category of surprises includes those that cause delight and doubt. 

For example:

L. had invited our family over for dinner a few weeks before we’d be moving across-state.

With her gift for interior design and crafting abilities, L. had created an inviting home. She showed me her guest room, recently refurbished and exuding a warm welcome, given the restful color-scheme, well-coordinated furniture, and attractive linens.

I oohed and aahed over L.’s surprise-display of her handiwork, truly happy for her success and the wherewithal to make it happen.

But I did wonder why she didn’t ask, “Nancy, are you feeling all right? You look a little green!”

Surely my face betrayed the envy in my heart for that beautiful room.

You see, we’d recently visited the parsonage* that our family of five would soon be living in—small, sorely lacking storage, with long-outdated furniture, and no color-scheme at all.

Not only was I struggling to say good-bye to a loving congregation, but also to the pleasant, new-to-us parsonage the current church had purchased and furnished just three years previously.  

Perhaps you too have struggled, when others enjoy circumstances you desire.  Again, the question arises:

What then? 

Since that night in L.’s home I’ve learned:

That would include prayer for the person we envy, that they might flourish. No doubt you’ve heard “prayer changes things.” That includes the person praying.

In addition, we can be attentive to what God has supplied and express gratitude for all he is and all he does—like the unknown Puritan did who wrote this prayer:

“When I think upon and converse with Thee, ten thousand delightful thoughts spring up, ten thousand sources of pleasure are unsealed, ten thousand refreshing joys spread over my heart, crowding every moment of happiness.”

*     *     *     *     *     *     *     *     *

I praise you, God, for the numerous happy surprises you provide.  And for those times when surprise comes through difficulty, I praise you for your ministering presence, providing wisdom, grace, and strength. May I be faithful to avail myself of your enablement. 

*A home provided by a church for their pastor and family, sometimes furnished.

Image credits: http://www.pickpik.com; http://www.canva.com; http://www.freerangestock.com (Enieda Nieves); http://www.ropbymhome.com (Pierce Martin); http://www.canva.com; http://www.dailyverses.net.

Do sign up below for the monthly newsletter that includes a THANK YOU GIFT: Thirty suggestions for enhancing our gratitude to God.

Scroll to the end of the newsletter to find this resource!

By clicking submit, you agree to share your email address with Mailchimp and me to receive the newsletter. Use the unsubscribe link in those emails to opt out at any time!

Processing…
Success! You're on the list.

Read Full Post »

Bible Hugs

Posted in Encouragement, Faith, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, God's Provision, Uncategorized, tagged , , , on February 19, 2026| 57 Comments »

Not long ago I meant to type into the search box, biblehub.com, a site I visit frequently for research. (If you’ve not visited there, it’s well worth exploring.) But this time, instead of hub I typed hug.

Bible hug.

After a slight snicker, I thought, Wait—scripture does offer hugs-of-sorts, in the form of encouragement, comfort, and assurance—providing occasions when I can almost feel God’s embrace.

Sometimes those hugs have come in preparation for what’s to come, sometimes in the midst of pain or trouble, and other times after the fact.

For example, a Bible hug in preparation for what was to come:

Steve and I were driving home after a visit to the next church (three hours away) where he’d been assigned to serve as pastor, beginning in six weeks. Melancholy enveloped me.

Three times in eleven years, the powers-that-be had chosen to move us, although neither we nor the current church had requested it. This was the hardest part of being a pastor’s family in our denomination.

Suddenly, on the Christian radio station we were listening to, the host read a scripture I’d surely heard before, but it took on fresh significance that day:

I clung to that promise over the next weeks of packing, taking care of the million-and-one details a move requires, and saying painful good-byes.

And look what God did at our new church:

He prospered us in new relationships, grew our faith (especially concerning our finances and those of the church), and blessed us as we watched him grow this community of believers—in number, spiritual maturity, and outreach—for thirteen years.

*       *       *

A Bible hug in the midst of pain: 

Spring semester my freshman year of college, I received news that a friend back home had died, the result of a car accident. She’d been in a coma for over a week.

It seemed impossible. So many people had been praying for Shelly. Why did God say “No?”

She was only eighteen, as smart as they come, and scheduled to go to Spain as a short-term missionary that coming summer. Shelly was also an accomplished pianist, and had just won second place in a talent competition.

Why didn’t God intervene for such an outstanding young woman? My faith was beginning to falter.

I shut myself in the dormitory broom closet and searched my Bible for an answer. It wasn’t long before I came across these verses:

Verse 36 in the New Living Translation says, “Everything comes from him . . . and is intended for his glory.” 

That includes the death of my young friend. My place is not to beg for answers that I likely wouldn’t understand or accept anyway. My place is to trust.

*       *       *

A Bible hug that provided closure:

Years ago Steve worked under the direction of a pastor whose words and actions could be downright unkind. We’ll call him George. 

The situation intensified when, behind the scenes and unbeknownst to us, George engineered a change of position for Steve—elsewhere in the state–while we were on vacation. I was pregnant at the time, due just one month prior to the move.

God taught me much during that time, including the wisdom of James 1:2-4:

The next few months provided many opportunities to practice perseverance as we endured continued difficulty with George.

We also developed self-control, not talking to people in the church about what he had done (except with a few mature confidantes), in order not to cause strife or division.

I learned that love is not a feeling, it’s an action. With much prayer, God gave me grace to be genial with George. He also helped me understand that much of his untoward behavior came from insecurity.

After the fact, I could count it all joy that we’d faced such trials. I’m a better person for the lessons learned in self-discipline, integrity, and perseverance.

Years later we had occasion to meet George again. God had obviously been at work in his life; he was a changed man.

*       *       *

Of course, these are just a few of the Bible hugs received from God over the years. Perhaps we’ll revisit this topic again in the future.

In the meantime, please share in the comment section below a Bible hug you’ve received. I’d love to read your stories; no doubt others would too!

Image credits: http://www.easy-peasy.ai; http://www.pexels.com (Leticia Alvares); http://www.dailyverses.net; http://www.canva.com; http://www.pickpik.com.

Do sign up below for the monthly newsletter–and thank you in advance for becoming a subscriber!

By clicking submit, you agree to share your email address with Mailchimp and me to receive the newsletter. Use the unsubscribe link in those emails to opt out at any time!

Processing…
Success! You're on the list.

Read Full Post »

Surprised by Prayer

Posted in Bible Study, Courage, Encouragement, Faith, God, God's Goodness, God's Love, God's Power, God's Provision, God's Strength, God's Will, Peace, Perseverance, Prayer, Uncategorized, tagged , , , on February 12, 2026| 41 Comments »

Currently my prayers for others include healing from illness, avoidance of surgery, a smooth path ahead into a new life-phase, and guidance for an important decision. 

Good things for good people.

But not long ago I had occasion to peruse Paul’s second letter to the Thessalonian church.  Four times in three short chapters, Paul expressed his prayers for these Christians facing persecution and trials (2 Thessalonians 1:4).

His prayers surprised me.

Did he include protection from their enemies? No. Rescue from persecution? No. Lives of peace so they could share about Christ without threat? No. 

Instead, Paul asked for God’s empowerment, encouragement, strength, understanding of God’s love, endurance, and inner peace.

Why were these qualities uppermost in his mind? 

First, GOD’S EMPOWERMENT would help them live true to their faith (1:11 CEV), so they might honor God and God might honor them (v. 12).

And what might that honor look like?  Shalom—which includes inner tranquility, divine wholeness, prosperity of soul, and more (1)—even during trials.

We too can ask God to empower those we pray for, that they might honor him, experience his shalom, and anticipate the supreme honor of hearing him declare, “Well done, good and faithful servant” (2).  

We’d do well to pray the same for ourselves. 

Second, GOD’S ENCOURAGEMENT AND STRENGTH would lead the Thessalonians to always do and say what is good (2 Thessalonians 2:17 GNT).

In the previous verse, Paul reminded these readers of God’s love and grace to them.

Perhaps he wanted to stir up memories of God’s goodness on display in the past, and once inspired, they’d be fueled to show goodness to one another within their church—to keep one another lifted up. 

And that integrity would draw those outside the church to Jesus (3).

Third, GREATER UNDERSTANDING OF GOD’S LOVE AND ENDURANCE, provided through Christ (2 Thessalonians 3:5 GNT), would cause their confidence in him to grow.

Then, when challenges arose, the Thessalonian church would remain steadfast and unflinching in the face of persecution.

Down through the centuries Christians have suffered for their faith. Even now in Asia and Africa, Christ-followers bear up under imprisonment and torture.

Meriam Ibrahim was just such a prisoner, sentenced to death for refusing to become a Muslim.  Her second child was born while Meriam was behind bars. 

Finally her captors threatened to torture her with one hundred lashes followed by hanging, but Meriam later stated she never even considered acquiescing to her captors. 

An international campaign for her release saved Meriam’s life. She now lives in the U.S (4). 

Though we and our loved ones may never face such circumstances, we’re wise to prepare ourselves, and pray for endurance to stay the course—for all of us.

And last, PEACE—Shalom—from the Lord of Peace himself (3:16 HCSB).

Here shalom is not just alluded to; Paul prays for it specifically, that the Thessalonians might enjoy “at all times and in every way” this most sublime blessing.

No doubt, Meriam experienced such inner tranquility and deep, settled confidence. It can be ours also, as we stand on the strong foundation of:

  • God’s promises. He is a refuge, a stronghold, who never forsakes those who seek him (5). 
  • God’s sovereignty and perfections. With flawless wisdom he always acts rightly (6).
  • God’s power. Sometimes he rescues, as he did in Meriam’s case. Other times, in his wisdom of all things, he deems it best not to. It’s then we see his miraculous power to carry his followers through, as he has thousands of martyrs who’ve gone to their deaths praying and singing.

So what about our prayers for good outcomes and guidance? Are they improper somehow? Not at all. In another letter, Paul told us to pray about everything.

So I’ll continue to pray for D. to be healed, for N. not to require surgery, for C.’s path ahead to be made clear, and A., as she and her family look to God for guidance.

But I’ll also add God’s empowerment to persevere, his encouragement and strength to live with integrity in spite of challenges, to experience God’s love in palpable ways, and to rest in his shalom. 

California landscape by Thomas Hill (1829-1908)

Notes:

  1. Isaiah 32:17
  2. Matthew 25:21
  3. Matthew 5:14-16
  4. (https://www.eauk.org/idea/five-famous-christians-who-went-to-prison.cfm )
  5. Psalm 9:9-10
  6. Psalm 145:17

Image credits: http://www.publicdomainpictures.net (5); http://www.dailyverses.net; http://www.picryl.com.

Do sign up below for the monthly newsletter–and thank you in advance for becoming a subscriber!

By clicking submit, you agree to share your email address with Mailchimp and me, to receive the email-newslette. Use the unsubscribe link in those emails to opt out at any time!

Processing…
Success! You're on the list.

Read Full Post »

Older Posts »

When the House is Quiet

Impressions Becoming Expressions

Mitch Teemley

The Power of Story

Still Traveling

Impressions Becoming Expressions

Living Our Days

Gaining a heart of wisdom

He Said What?!

I'm Patty, and my husband and I are living with our adult son who has autism and epilepsy. I love sharing lessons learned from life around me, especially life with Aaron.

Meditations of my Heart

Impressions Becoming Expressions

Linda Stoll

Impressions Becoming Expressions

Signora Sheila

Where faith meets la dolce vita

Laurie Klein, Scribe

Heidi Viars

Finding the Image of God

Healthy Spirituality