“How do you forgive yourself?” A few seconds passed. No one moved to answer. My mind was forming a response. Talking in front of a group is not an activity I relish, but I knew I was going to speak up this time. I didn’t have all the answers, but I had hope and my…
The world prefers people who fit in. There’s nothing wrong with fitting in—it’s what enables most systems to function well. But here’s the problem. Many of these societal systems, such as our schools, workplaces, and even churches, benefit only people who fit into the mold. When a child is born with Down syndrome or brown…
I was on the phone with a friend the other night for two hours. I was facing a big deadline—800 words to be exact—but I also knew that my friend needed me. Her situation is probably not unlike yours in some way or another. She’s facing family struggles, a relative’s death, indecision about her future,…
I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world. (John 16:33 NIV). I love to watch Hallmark Christmas movies. They’re cheesy, sappy, and unrealistic; they all have unbelievable premises; and the plots are all similar. All problems, even…
Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. (Hebrews 11:1 KJV) I sat in chapel at Bible college my freshman year, starry-eyed with dreams for the future. I was convinced that being a missionary was my destiny, and I was excited to fulfill my purpose in the world….
We all get discouraged. Yesterday I got discouraged at least three times before three o’clock. I didn’t know I was feeling low until a friend called and asked, “How are you?” “Discouraged,” I said, without skipping a beat. Some friends can take an honest answer. A true friend always can. (Thanks, Andree.) I felt better…