Sometimes I wish my life looked different than it does. I convince myself that if only I had more time, if only I got more sleep, if only I __[insert excuse]__, I’d be closer to God than I am. But looking back on the seasons of my life, I realize that it’s not those external factors that determine the closeness …
How to Overcome Doubt:: A Personal Story
He laced his fingers around the mug of coffee and listened to me as I poured out my concerns. “Just tell me how to overcome doubt.” I said. “I’ve just never questioned this before, and now I’m not even sure what to believe.” We were in some pretty deep theological and philosophical waters, discussing the canonicity of the Bible, how …
How to Live a Life of Celebration
The words poured from her lips and pierced my heart: God doesn’t owe me salvation. The question isn’t “Why didn’t God save everyone?” but rather “Why did God save me?” The answer is grace. The response is gratitude. R. C. Sproul, as quoted by Angie Smith I looked around the dark room at the thirty other women seated around me …
When God Asks for the One Thing You Don’t Want to Give Him
Surrounded by dozens of women in worship, I bowed my head and held out my hands. A sweet sister was leading us in a prayer of surrender. She invited us to surrender our bodies to God, our minds, our hearts, our spirits, our days. Leaning forward, I asked Him, “I’m all Yours. Is there anything I’m holding back, Lord?” And He …
When You Feel Alone in a Room Full of People
The air left my lungs as I tried to calm my beating heart. “One step in front of another,” I told myself, as I inched forward. Facing me were the backs of 30 high schoolers, all laughing carelessly and engaged in riveting conversations. I alone didn’t belong. Week after week, this scenario played out as my family visited the churches that supported …