Tag: humility
-
On Being Weak Well
“In sickness and in health” was part of our relationship before we ever said our vows. When Matt and I met, he had already been diagnosed with a couple of chronic illnesses. Although I lived with chronic pain, his challenges were much more significant. We knew from the start that our lifestyle would be shaped…
-
Times I’ve Rediscovered I’m Not God
I’d never outright tell you, or myself, that I’m God. But sometimes I live like I am. Like when… Something I’ve worried about endlessly works out without my intervention. God is sovereign, I am not. I see God change someone’s heart who I thought I’d need to push and pull into growing the way I…
-
3 Signs You’re Forgetting You’re Not God
If someone walked up to you and addressed you as “Lord” or “God of the universe,” I suspect you’d think it absurd. Most of us would never claim to be God or mistake ourselves as sovereign, all-powerful, or perfect. At least, not consciously. Without realizing it, though, we often act like we are God. That’s…
-
Are Your Gifts Getting in the Way?
For a time we had the joy of serving a sweet student couple a home-cooked meal once a month or so. It was especially fun when simple things like roasted broccoli lit up their faces because the cafeteria veggies were always soggy and steamed. One day, they asked if they could bring dinner to us…
-
But Jesus
There were big things to do. There throngs willing to listen who needed to hear. There were disciples seeking training and teaching. “But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed.” –Luke 5:16 There were people to heal. There were lost souls to share the Gospel with. There were places to get to, people…
-
One Kind of Love I Want to Emulate
7 ½ years ago, a goofy guy made an ice cream cone man using spinach leaves and other veggies. He walked up and introduced me to his frozen friend. Ever unable to keep a straight face, I tried to hold a serious conversation with the melting monster. I don’t know if he knew I needed…
-
The Instrument’s Purpose
Whew. What a flute. What a paintbrush. What a keyboard! …Said no one awed in a concert, enjoying an art show, or mesmerized by a book. The plate, my goodness, it’s spectacular. What a fork! Said no satisfied diner. Ever. Those Christians. So good and righteous and flawless. What a bunch! Said too many people….
-
The Faith-Science of Courage
Beneath the headache-inducing fluorescent lights of the high school’s health classroom, my scrawny self learned something life changing. It didn’t seem all that scientific back then. I learned the word resilient. In a passing moment, the teacher said “want to impress college reps? Use this big word. Resilient. It means you bounce back.” He went…
-
Is It Worth It?
In Sunday School we’re learning about Gentiles in a Jewish Timeline –like, what God’s been doing in Gentiles throughout history. One of the first points made was one that I’m always glad to be reminded of. God’s work in the Israelites displayed His power to the rest of the world. God always wanted the whole…
-
4 Biblical Strategies for Honoring Your In Laws
You’re probably familiar with Exodus 20:12 –“honor your father and mother”. While fumbling over “Nan-uh, Mrs., uh, Mom?” it isn’t always obvious that this command applies to your relationship with your in laws too. According to the current stereotype, in laws are common household enemies. There’s even the popular mantra “you don’t just marry him…