When I hear the term “first love” I usually think the reference is to the first person you “fell in love” with. I looked at it with a bit deeper meaning this morning. The people who taught me to love are my parents. They have been in my life since the very beginning. They loved…
I am generally not surprised at something so much that I fall down. I’ve been stunned at peoples out-of-control behavior. One of my favorite sayings when I’m shocked is: “you could push me over with a feather”. There are people who thrive on “shock talk” and “stunning behavior” to get a certain response from others.…
The word contend carries with it a sense of struggle and fight. When I think of “contending for my faith”, I see the struggle. There are those who want to destroy my faith and others who want to build me up. At the end of the day, I’m the one responsible for my faith in…
I heard a rumor about me that wasn’t true. Hearsay is information received from others that can’t be substantiated. Hearsay is also defined as hearing someone else say something and then repeat it – this is not allowed in court proceedings. It’s like a person overhears and eyewitness and testifies instead of the eyewitness. Hearsay…
I recently received a short note of thanks from a friend and it was a blessing. Sometimes a simple, short note packs a powerful message. I enjoy writing short notes to people who influence me and people that I have the privilege to know and work with. This little book of 3 John appears to…
I love opening packages whether they are Christmas gifts, birthday gifts or something I’ve ordered from Amazon.com! Opening gifts has elements of anticipation and surprise. There is a sense of excitement to opening a package. Just putting my eyes and my hands on the contents is enjoyable and fun. I must say that as I…
I have never considered myself to be a good “test taker”. I don’t “lock down” or “freeze up”, but I do get a bit nervous. God gives us tests all the time and it’s often in the form of living life every day. He sends people our way and we have the opportunity to love…
This is someone who pleads on someone else’s behalf. An attorney is an example of an advocate. As a parent, I’m an advocate of my kids. As a leader of my company, I’m an advocate of my agents. I love the fact that I have the Ultimate Advocate. The Lord is my Council, my Advocate…
This word means admitting mistakes and embarrassment. This is an important first step to coming to terms with my sinful nature. I’m prone to wander into sin. In fact I’m often drawn to it like a magnet. The Word of God speaks into my life to help me avoid getting caught up in the deceit…
I’m not super patient. I want what I want, when I want it! I know a lot of people just like that. I do work hard at being patient on most days. I’m usually less patient with the ones I love most because my expectations are so very high. I’m sure not proud of my…