Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall. Proverbs 16:18 (NIV) Several years ago, my oldest daughter was hospitalized for a relatively minor illness that amounted to a three-day stay. Upon admission, she was required to wear a (hideous) plastic, yellow wrist band. Emblazoned in all caps, it read, FALL RISK. My interpretation? […]

Though he (God) slay me…this will turn out for my deliverance. Job 13:15 I had my hopes dashed this week. At the end of 2019, I’d entered a significant and highly competitive writing contest. It required I complete a form and send it along with a few copies of my precious book and a contest fee […]

Those who know the Lord do not put forth their own hand and bring things about. T. Austin Sparks, On Knowing God (1930) At the conclusion of our meeting together, the woman startled me with her words. “Once you’ve got your fingerprints all over a matter God won’t use it.” Rising from my chair, I […]

For the Lord your God is bringing you into a good land — a land where bread will not be scarce and you will lack nothing… When you have eaten and are satisfied, praise the Lord your God for the good land He has given you. Be careful that you do not forget the Lord […]

Since you are precious and honored in my sight, and because I love you, I will give men in exchange for you, people in exchange for your life. Isaiah 43:4 Growing up, I was frequently and consistently affirmed by my parents. They fostered an atmosphere where ugly words and behavior, either toward others or myself, […]