Mini-Retreats: 3 Different Types (and why we need them)

We all need to retreat every once in awhile.  A change of pace from the ordinary refreshes the body, mind, and spirit.  Different types of retreats serve different purposes, but I believe there are three primary types of retreats that all people need: solo, community, and Sabbath.  These retreats don’t need to involve large quantities of time or travel.  You can create mini-retreats, at home.  All you need is a plan and a few minutes set aside for this purpose.

Read more

30 Ways to Be Renewed: Body, Spirit & Mind

The ideas wouldn't flow.  I felt like I was stuck in mud.  It seemed like I had depleted every ounce of creativity and strength I had in me. As a busy mom and as a writer, I knew I needed replenishment.  Spiritually, I realized I was little dry, as well.  I wasn't satisfied with the stale routine I had going.  I had been checking off the "to dos" of Bible reading and prayer out of duty, rather than a deep thirst for more of God. 

I knew God's promises.  I've experienced his truths. I just needed to act upon them. 

Read more

7 Thoughts on Wonder from G.K. Chesterton

Wonder is a word that is synonymous with other words such as surprised, awe-filled and inexplicable.  It's a beautiful thing to keep your sense of wonder at the world around you.  I'm sure that's one of the many reasons I'm so drawn to G.K. Chesterton's writings.  He was a man that was filled with wonder.  The Ethics of Elfland, a chapter within his book, Orthodoxy, is a prime example.  I've pulled out some of my favorite quotes on wonder from this chapter of G.K. Chesterton's book, to give you a taste.  

Read more

25 Powerful Ways a Wife Can Say, "I Love You"

It's summer, and wedding and anniversary season is upon us!  I love this time of year, partly because I often get to attend weddings and also because my husband and I celebrate our own anniversary in August. We just hit 21 years together!  

With that milestone, it seemed appropriate to make a list, some ideas for love in action that speak loud and clear.    Some of the most powerful ways to say, I love you, don't even use words....  

Read more

What You Need to Know if You Have a Broken Identity

Have you ever felt forgotten and abandoned?

There is a whole society of people that stands with you, bearing the weight of loneliness and shame, fear and isolation.

It’s AD 60 and Paul is sitting in the corner of a Roman prison, writing the book of Ephesians to the new community of Christians in Ephesus. The book of Ephesians is about our identity in Christ – our adoption, redemption and hope.

Read more