“The righteous care for the needs of their animals.” —Proverbs 12:10 NIV Animals are woven throughout the story of Scripture. They appear in the garden, where Adam was entrusted with naming them. They entered the ark under God’s protection. They rested on the Sabbath, received consideration under God’s law, and were included in His covenant […]
Caring for What God Calls His Own Read Post »
Today was extremely hot, but the weeds had gotten so tall that I finally gave in and climbed onto the riding mower. The blazing sun beat down on everything around me, and by the time I reached the last section of the yard, I was more than ready to be finished. As I mowed, birds
When God Sets the Water Right in Front of Us Read Post »
“Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.” Ephesians 6:11 NIV There have been days when I felt like I was walking down a dark path without knowing what was waiting around the next bend. Fear whispered that I wasn’t strong enough. Worry tried to
“Father, if You are willing, take this cup from Me; yet not My will, but Yours be done.” Luke 22:42 NIV There are moments in life when we pray for God to change our circumstances, remove our pain, or open a different door. We ask Him to heal the diagnosis, restore the relationship, provide the
Not My Will, But Yours Read Post »
“Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day.” 2 Corinthians 4:16 NIV Have you ever felt like your heart was ready to go, but your body simply couldn’t keep up? Maybe you remember the days when you could work in the garden for hours, take long walks, or
When Your Spirit Wants to Run Read Post »
“Better a little with the fear of the Lord than great wealth with turmoil.” Proverbs 15:16 NIV Have you ever noticed how easy it is to compare our homes to the ones we see online? Spotless countertops. Perfectly folded blankets. Fresh flowers on every table. Not a single toy, dish, or piece of mail in
A Peaceful Home Isn’t a Perfect Home Read Post »
“Be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” Romans 12:2 NIV Have you ever noticed how much your feet hurt when you first start walking barefoot? Every little pebble feels sharp. Twigs make you stop in your tracks, and even a gravel driveway seems impossible to cross. Your feet are simply too sensitive because they’ve
“I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God has been making it grow.” 1 Corinthians 3:6 NIV Every gardener knows that a healthy garden begins long before the first seed is planted. The soil must be nourished. The weeds must be pulled. The plants need water, sunlight, and time. Without the right environment, even
Tending the Garden Read Post »
“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” Philippians 4:8 NIV The other day I found myself wondering what the world would look like if I could see it through God’s eyes. Not
Through Eyes of Wonder Read Post »
“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” 1 Thessalonians 5:18 NIV Have you ever noticed how easy it is to focus on what isn’t going right? One inconvenience turns into frustration. One unanswered prayer overshadows ten answered ones. One difficult season becomes all we can see. It’s
Looking Through the Storm Read Post »
