More than Unbroken

Lately, I’m having to remind myself of this phrase a lot! Call it what you want, but I know spiritual attacks come in all shapes and forms. In moments of chaos, I ask myself how Christ would respond. Trust me, I’m a work in progress! But every now and then, God reveals something about His character that I can show. Case in point: right now, I’m reading through the book of Deuteronomy with Bible Recap on the Bible App. This particular study has brought formerly mundane scriptures to life in a meaningful way. And God definitely has His hands full trying to keep the wandering Israelites on track! I can totally relate. All I have to say is it’s a good thing God didn’t put me in charge! My flesh gets the best of me and my emotions wreck me and those around me. This week, I had such a moment (or several, if I’m honest). When I was praying and asking God to help me handle a particular issue, He reminded me of the servanthood of Jesus. He washed feet. He knew He was being betrayed. He knew his...

 Knowing that God has been on the move in my life, it was no surprise that this week has been full of spiritual attacks. Physically, emotionally, and mentally the enemy took full advantage of my recent comfort. The joke, however, is on him. When my heart grows heavy and my mind fills with doubt, I turn to the One who whispers the truth.  Don't get me wrong. I spent a solid afternoon in bed one day this week after battling sickness in my body. I would hardly call that time "sacred." But when I look back at every moment that felt like a gut punch, I can see it for what it truly is. And then I can lean into Jesus. Some days this week it took all of my strength to whisper His name and ask for help. It was even harder to hear Him through the unrelenting lies playing through my mind. I have to press in and dig my heels in to stand firmly on Christ the solid rock. If I'm being honest, the lies are still playing like a broken record. But I refuse to live in defeat. Instead, I...

This weekend, I had the humbling, beautiful experience of joining with other women in our area to network and fellowship. Northside is hosting a conference this year, and one of the things God has laid on my heart is our need as the Church to break walls to build the body. Consider the Jews after Christ ascended. They couldn't keep the hope and joy God had provided to themselves. Instead, they took Jesus at His word. "Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age." (Matthew 28: 19-20) The fact is that the building you serve in and worship in is NOT the Church. If your pastor is preaching this gospel, YOU are the Church. I wonder if we still take this commission seriously. It becomes so easy to think that our pastors, missionaries, and other workers in mini...

  In 2020, we all began experiencing unprecedented change and loss. Since then, our friends and family have walked through multiple losses. Some were so gut-wrenching that it seemed impossible to carry on without the loved one. Others were a long time coming and resulted in a reluctant, collective sigh because we know that our loved one is no longer suffering. They are free from pain and heartache with our Lord in Heaven. Still, we have to go on without them. Grief and loss were never part of the plan. God created a perfect, beautiful world and longed for us to be in constant closeness with Him and each other. Enter Satan. The accuser of the brethren. The enemy of God. The destroyer of souls. See, this fallen angel, Lucifer, had a notion that he could be like God. When that plan didn't work, God cast him out of Heaven along with his followers. Ever since then, Satan has been working tirelessly to thwart God's plan for creation. It all started with a bite. When Adam and Eve chos...

  It's the time of year that teachers dread. The season from January until spring break is a long stretch in the calendar. Students have settled into the routines of school and are testing the patience of every adult. To top it off, the weather is cold, rainy, or both. So how do you beat the blues? Pick up a new hobby. Remember that New Year's Resolution to learn a new language or start cooking more at home? Now is the time to dig your heels in and start! According to Harvard Health, hobbies are linked to overall well-being and feelings of happiness ( Harvard Health, January 2024 ). Maybe you didn't resolve to do something new. ..no problem! Go ahead and sign up for that class, download the app to learn a new language, and practice that instrument you've neglected. Enjoy simple pleasures. Over the last few years, I have explored the concept of Hygge, a Danish term for all things cozy and comforting. This time of year is the best time to indulge in such pleasures. Sav...

  With Valentine's Day coming up, I've been thinking about the "stuff" that I really like. Flowers are great, and jewelry is nice. But if you want a friend gift or something a little more unique, here are a few ideas. Perhaps this post will help you shop for the perfect gift that will become a "favorite thing." For the Music Lover If you are purchasing for a musician or vocalist, you have a ton of options including a guitar pick necklace or keyring to tickets for a concert. Even vintage gifts like records have made a strong comeback in the music community. Things to consider when purchasing for your musical genius: what is their favorite genre? Who is their favorite artist? Before buying that album, make sure they don't already have it. For the Teacher I can tell you most assuredly what many teachers DON'T need: another mug. Even though this seems like a simple, cute gift, as a teacher, I have difficulty parting with any gift from students. I have ...

  I am my own worst critic. My need for validation far outweighs logic in stressful times, so my mind wanders into the old patterns of insecurity, defensiveness, and loneliness. Surely, I am not alone in this struggle. Today, friend, I'm here to share the thoughts that I struggle with and the truth that debunks these myths. No one cares how I feel. This is at the heart of my vulnerability. When I am tired and stressed, life seems to move ahead, and the people I care about seem oblivious to my struggles. This couldn't be further from the truth. As good as I may be at hiding this illogical notion, my husband and mom are usually the first to detect a change. Thankfully, they refuse to leave me alone until I understand just how much they care. Even better, my Father in Heaven sees me in every feeling. Isaiah‬ ‭41‬:‭10‬ ‭says, "Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious r...