by Joanne | Sep 29, 2015 | Devoted Living
“Always be joyful. Never stop praying. Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus. Do not stifle the Holy Spirit.” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-19, NLT) For the last few days, I have been reading the familiar...
by Joanne | Sep 28, 2015 | Devoted Living
Samson. The mere mention of his name brings his story back to mind. But there were new lessons to be gleaned from this old story: We must keep our ears inclined to hear God speak. Knowing they will have a son given to them by God, Manoah asks the angel, “When...
by Joanne | Sep 23, 2015 | Book Reviews, Devoted Living
Transition. It’s been a word running through my head for the last few weeks. Maybe because we are in transition as my littlest granddaughter started pre-school this fall. Our schedules did change, for both of us. I embraced the transition as it meant two...
by Joanne | Sep 22, 2015 | Devoted Living
“My life is down in the dust, give me life through Your word. I told you about my life, and You listened to me.” (Psalm 119:25-26, Holman Christian Standard Bible) Amazing how reading from an unfamiliar version can bring new insights. And that is exactly...
by Joanne | Sep 21, 2015 | Devoted Living
There were some hard looks at rulers and sibling rivalry and battles but lessons to be gleaned: Jealousy and a thirst for power can make an ugly mix. Abimelech kills his brothers to gain rule over the people. The people allowed themselves to be influenced in ways they...
by Joanne | Sep 15, 2015 | Devoted Living
“Hearing this, Jesus said to Jairus, “Don’t be afraid; just believe, and she will be healed.” (Luke 8:50, NIV1984) This verse sits, written on an index card in a frame, on my kitchen window sill. I knew in my heart, it would need to be visible...
