Posts Tagged ‘lessons I have learned’
When all joy is lost
Laughter abounded while visiting with my friend. We shared deeply. Tears formed. I felt her sufferings. Some I hadn’t experienced, others were close to my heart. Life has an ebb and flow; happiness and heartache. And the two can merge like serene ocean and hurricane ravaged land. It can feel like you’ve lost your joy…
Read MoreSpeedometer
I believe God appreciates my efficiency. I’m able to run through my day focused (primarily), getting everything accomplished (mostly) on my to-do list. For that, I think God sits back and says, “She’s a go-getter,” admiring my tenacity. But His endearment comes from my slowing. From slapping feet on the pavement to a quieter crunching…
Read MoreDeeper
I’ve been taking a sabbatical day once a month since January. My June adventure took me to Seven Falls in Colorado Springs. I was excited until the day I woke up. It was raining. Wind, cold, mixed with some hail. Is it really June in Colorado? I’d hoped that God would change His mind about…
Read MoreSHE WILL NOT BE AFRAID!
Tomorrow, “Living Fearless” is the topic of my talk that will be delivered to women. God is helping me practice this daily. As I go forth, I pray that my training in fearlessness will shine through as I share what He’s been teaching me. “A ship in harbor is safe, but that is not what…
Read MoreNot Everything is a Lesson
First, the disappointment came. I cried out, “Why God? I’m a faithful servant!” The more I pondered the situation, the more angry I became. I wanted justice. I got angry with God. We had some words. Or should I say, I had words with Him. Then I prayed that He’d understand my heart. And that I’d…
Read MoreThe labyrinth
My spiritual director, Ruth, gave some basic instructions about walking the labyrinth. Then we sat in the stillness of the morning. She moved toward the entrance first. I remained seated. The only noise was the earth under her feet. A rumble of thunder from looming clouds was my signal to begin the holy walk. I…
Read MoreSlaying Giants
Once you’ve identified the childhood giants that taunt you, it’s time to slay them. How? There are three practices I’d like you to consider: If you want to slay your giants, the first step is to receive your anointing. You are gifted and called to serve God in your own unique way. So step into…
Read MoreChildhood Giants
The simplest things leave scars that we carry with us into adulthood. I call them “childhood giants.” These emerge from emotional events that shape our perceptions. I spent the majority of my life fighting three of these beasts: never good enough, abandoned, and carrying blame. I didn’t know how to confront myself and face the childhood giants I…
Read MoreMama J saved the day.
On our last visit to Florida, my restful time was interrupted by something that caught my eye…a long black line inside the lanai. But then it moved. My curious stare jumped to the realization that it was a snake! And not just one, but two. Now both were moving in opposite directions. EEEK! I sprang…
Read MoreYou can’t…
I notice it easily in others. Nonproductive attempts to control outcomes, invoke responses that’s desired, or ultimatums. I readily feel that twang of conviction when someone else succumbs to manipulation traps. But it’s easier to point a finger away. Unfruitful words such as: “You’ve got to stop acting like this, it’s going to put me…
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