Rejoicing and Renewing Daily: How to Take Your Thoughts Captive
One of the consequences of having more time on our hands is that we also have more time alone with our thoughts. Sometimes this space to think is more than…
How to Heal from Emotional Trauma Even When You Still Feel Broken
Emotional trauma is more far-reaching than we may realize. Though we may assume trauma only applies to those who’ve lived through catastrophic events, the accumulated stress of numerous smaller traumatic…
Praying for Your Husband: 10 Powerful Scripture Prayers for Him
“I want to pray for my husband, but I’m not sure where to start.” “I’m not sure if my prayers for my husband are being heard.” “Why should I pray…
How My Children Point Me to the Tangible, Touchable Love of God
I fall backward onto the floor, overdramatizing my movements as I shout, “You got me!” Suddenly, there is a small hand in my hair, a finger in my nose, and…
God’s Starter Home
Not long ago, I had a friend ask me how long I saw my family living in our house. As I paused before answering, she continued, “Because this is like…
Hope For A Heart Thirsty For Love
I stand on the porch of my tiny playhouse, my thoughts as long as my brown braid. Spruce trees tower behind me, gilded in slanting sunshine, and warm summer air…
On Longing and Abiding
A year ago, my husband and I looked at each other over our Dunkin Donuts drive-thru breakfast. Our car was loaded with three boys, three pairs of cleats, three bags…
Peace in the Pile
My husband and I share a closet. Oh, the joy. Some things, such as thermostats, armrests, and closets are just meant to be one person’s dominion. However, we live in…
Finding Joy Through the Darkness
One child screamed while the other two fought. Or maybe two screamed while one complained. I don’t quite remember—I just remember telling my husband I needed a break. I couldn’t…
Clinging to Christ When He Disrupts Your Plans
I was smiling, but inside I was desperately trying to hold it all together. Looking around the room at our goodbye party, I wondered how the Lord would ever give…
Exchanging Grumbling for Grace
I’ve never cared for math and numbers, but I do love formulas. The predictability is irresistible. We add A to B and always get C. But when we try to…
Lessons from a Harsh Winter
I live in Virginia, where the weather is often quite unpredictable. This past March, I was just positive spring had begun. Sweaters and boots were shoved back into the recesses…