Why does the Almighty not set times for judgment? Why must those who know him look in vain for such days? (Job 24:1 NIV) Today I was talking with someone about the presidential race and all the “bad guys” in the political sphere. We agreed that God will judge those whoContinue Reading
“Keep your thoughts continually fixed on all that is authentic and real, honorable and admirable, beautiful and respectful, pure and holy, merciful and kind. And fasten your thoughts on every glorious work of God, praising him always.” (Philippians 4:8 TPT) Who are the people whose comments, encouragement, put-downs, or other speech still rings in yourContinue Reading
In preparation for our church’s women’s conference this weekend, I am writing a seven-minute presentation on the Biblical character Esther and how she was unshakeable in her efforts to save her people from evil. There are so many facets to this small book of the Bible that I could neverContinue Reading
[Please join me in praying for children and families on Thursdays this year.] As I write this I am studying Esther’s story. There are many interesting facets to the story, but one that caught my attention is the importance of her identity and community as a Jewish woman. As youContinue Reading
In the book of Esther there are four main characters: King Xerxes, a Persian King who reigned over the Jews who had been exiled from the Jewish homeland; Haman, Xerxes’ right-hand man who hated the Jews and wanted to destroy them; Mordecai, a Jewish man descended from the original exiles;Continue Reading
“Be strong and take heart, all you who hope in the Lord.” (Psalm 31:24 NIV) [Please join me in praying for our nation and world on Tuesdays.] Current news stories: These and many other pieces of news today can seem rather overwhelming. Who has the emotional bandwidth to absorb so many terribly hardContinue Reading
The Spirit of God, the Master, is on me because God anointed me.He sent me to preach good news to the poor, heal the heartbroken,Announce freedom to all captives, pardon all prisoners.God sent me to announce the year of his grace— a celebration of God’s destruction of our enemies— and to comfort all who mourn,To care for the needsContinue Reading