There Is a Connectedness in All Things — How Our Little Acts of Faith Matter

 

2022 Egypt 

In the vast, overwhelming scale of war, it’s easy to feel like our small efforts don’t matter. But Scripture tells a different story. God doesn’t measure impact by size. He multiplies loaves and fishes. He counts every tear. He uses mustard seeds to move mountains.

When we show up with compassion, obedience, and intercession—even in seemingly small ways—we are participating in something eternal. Nothing done in love, in faith, or in truth is ever wasted.

“And whoever gives one of these little ones even a cup of cold water because he is a disciple, truly, I say to you, he will by no means lose his reward.”
— Matthew 10:42 (ESV)

The God of the Old Testament didn’t act in isolation—He moved through generations, keeping His promises through chaos, war, and exile. He promised to make Abraham a great nation (Genesis 12:2–3), He delivered Israel through the Red Sea (Exodus 14), and He restored them after captivity (Ezra 1:1–4).

That same God moved through history again in 1948, restoring the modern nation of Israel after centuries of dispersion. His hand is always present, weaving redemption through destruction, rebuilding through ruins.

“Your faithfulness endures to all generations; you have established the earth, and it stands fast.”
— Psalm 119:90 (ESV)

Today, as we witness wars and rumors of wars, we can take heart that our actions—when aligned with His truth and character—are still part of that great redemptive thread.

We Are the Body of Christ — When One Hurts, We All Respond

“If one member suffers, all suffer together; if one member is honored, all rejoice together.”
— 1 Corinthians 12:26 (ESV)

Though we may live far from the frontlines, we are not spiritually disconnected. As the Body of Christ, when one part suffers—whether it be a Jewish family under attack, a Ukrainian child fleeing violence, or a widow trying to rebuild—we are called to respond with compassion, prayer, and practical love.

We are not called to fix everything. But we are called to do something.

Powerful Ways to Make a Difference

You may not be a soldier, policymaker, or humanitarian worker—but you can still be an agent of hope. Here are some Christ-honoring ways to make a real impact:

Pray with Purpose and Boldness

Set aside time to intercede for specific families, cities, or soldiers. Prayer is not passive—it is spiritual warfare and partnership with God’s will.

Support Biblically Sound Ministries Serving Israel and Victims of War

Partner with organizations that uphold biblical values, support the Jewish people, and provide trauma care, rescue, or resettlement help for war survivors.

 Welcome the Displaced with Compassion

If war-affected families have relocated to your area, befriend them. Invite them to church. Help them navigate life in a new land.

Teach the Next Generation to Be Peacemakers

Raise children and youth to understand the biblical history of Israel, the importance of justice, and how to stand for truth even when it's unpopular.

“The Lord will fight for you, and you have only to be silent.”
— Exodus 14:14 (ESV)

Israel stood trapped between the Red Sea and Pharaoh’s army. It looked hopeless. But in that impossible moment, God opened a path no one could see. He is still that kind of God. We are not without hope, even in the midst of global chaos.

Your small obedience today—whether it’s a prayer, a phone call, a donation, or a conversation—is part of God's unfolding plan to restore, redeem, and reveal Himself.

War wants to strip people of hope. But God uses people like you and me—people willing to show up in small, faithful ways—to push back the darkness.

He is the same yesterday, today, and forever. The same God who led Israel through waters and deserts still leads today. And if we remain obedient, humble, and willing, He will use our little to accomplish much.

“And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.”
— Galatians 6:9 (ESV)

Let’s not give up. Let’s not give in. Let’s be faithful, even in the little things.

 

Even If the Worst Happens — Trusting God in the Midst of War

 

2022 United Nations

When the World Shakes, Is God Still There?  In a world trembling under the weight of bombs, broken homes, and lost lives, we may find ourselves asking, “Where is God?” This question is not new. It's the same cry of the prophet Habakkuk, who looked around at violence, injustice, and terror and cried out to the Lord:

“O Lord, how long shall I cry for help, and you will not hear? Or cry to you ‘Violence!’ and you will not save?”
— Habakkuk 1:2 (ESV)

His cry could just as easily have come from the lips of a Ukrainian mother, a child in Gaza, or a soldier facing unspeakable choices.

Habakkuk’s complaint wasn’t met with condemnation. God didn’t silence his pain—He engaged it. We, too, are invited to bring our rawest questions to the Lord. Faith isn’t pretending things are okay. Faith is trusting that God remains good, even when our world is not.

“The righteous shall live by his faith.”
— Habakkuk 2:4b (ESV)

This verse, quoted later by Paul in Romans, anchors our hope in God’s character, not our circumstances.

God’s track record of restoration can give us hope today:

• In Egypt, He heard the cries of His people and led them through the Red Sea to freedom (Exodus 14).
• In exile, He promised to bring His people back from destruction (Isaiah 43:1–2).
• After centuries, He fulfilled His promise by reestablishing the nation of Israel in 1948—proving His covenant is never forgotten (Isaiah 66:8).

These are not just ancient stories—they are testaments of God's consistent nature.

“For I the Lord do not change; therefore you, O children of Jacob, are not consumed.”
— Malachi 3:6 (ESV)

He was faithful then. He is faithful now.

Even If the Worst Happens, We Can Rejoice

Habakkuk ends his book not with a resolution, but with a revolution of the heart:

“Though the fig tree should not blossom, nor fruit be on the vines... yet I will rejoice in the Lord; I will take joy in the God of my salvation.”
— Habakkuk 3:17–18 (ESV)

This isn’t a celebration of suffering. It’s an act of defiant trust. Even if we lose everything, we will still find hope in our Savior.

“God, the Lord, is my strength; he makes my feet like the deer’s; he makes me tread on my high places.”
— Habakkuk 3:19 (ESV)

What Can We Do in a Time of War?

You may feel powerless watching the news or scrolling through photos of destruction. But even the smallest acts matter. Here are ways you can bring hope:

• Pray deeply and specifically for those caught in conflict.
• Give generously to trusted organizations offering food, shelter, and trauma care.
• Write or call government officials to advocate for humanitarian aid for those being persecuted.
• Open your heart or your home to displaced families or refugees of persecuted peoples.
• Support children affected by war through sponsorship or prayer.
• Be present to someone who is grieving—even if you don’t have the perfect words.
• Support troops and their families who are fighting for justice!

Remember: it is not always our big gestures that heal, but our small faithfulness that builds a path to restoration.

God does not ignore war. He enters it. He weeps over it. He redeems it. The cross is proof that He doesn’t save us from suffering—He saves us through it.

He is the same God who parted seas, who regathered scattered people, and who will one day wipe away every tear. Until then, may we be vessels of His compassion, carriers of His peace, and witnesses of His faithfulness.

How We Got Here — Tracing the Roots of a Spiritual War

Map of the Arab empire. Credit: G. Devilder

We live in a world torn by war, fear, and misinformation. If we want to make a difference, we must go deeper than headlines and hashtags. We must understand who is involved, why they fight, and what drives their worldview. I am wanting to expand your thoughts on these two critical points: the historical and spiritual identity of Iranian and Palestinian groups, and the inner divide within Islam that fuels its self-destruction and global manipulation.   (Please understand this is a very simple review and only to get you to understand there is such a bigger picture to what is actually happening today.)

To understand what’s happening in Israel, Gaza, Iran, and beyond, we must look at the whole story—from the Bible, through history, to the present day.

From the moment God chose Abraham (Genesis 12), there has been conflict between those who trust the promises of God and those who reject them. Abraham had two sons: Isaac, the child of promise, and Ishmael, born from human striving. The descendants of Ishmael, as God foretold, would live in tension with others:

“He shall dwell over against all his kinsmen.”
— Genesis 16:12 (ESV)

The Old Testament is filled with examples of enemies rising up against Israel—the Philistines in Gaza, the Edomites (descendants of Esau), and later Persia (modern-day Iran). Yet over and over, God remained faithful, rescuing His people—even when they had rebelled—because His covenant cannot be broken.

“I will remember my covenant with Jacob, and I will remember my covenant with Isaac and my covenant with Abraham, and I will remember the land.”
— Leviticus 26:42 (ESV)

As Israel is once again surrounded by enemies, and as false religions continue to gain ground across the world, Christians must be alert and anchored in truth.

God’s Word has already told us this would happen. The same God who parted the Red Sea, restored Israel after exile, and brought Jesus to redeem the world, will not abandon His people today.

“Yet I will rejoice in the LORD; I will take joy in the God of my salvation.”
— Habakkuk 3:18 (ESV)

We must speak the truth in love—without compromise.
We must pray for Muslims to know the real Jesus—without fear.
We must stand with Israel—not politically, but biblically—with eyes fixed on God’s eternal covenant.

There is a difference between offering compassion and being complicit.
There is a difference between peacemaking and pretending false religions are equal paths to God.

As this spiritual war unfolds, may we be like Habakkuk—honest in our questions, but unwavering in our trust.

“The LORD God is my strength; he makes my feet like the deer’s; he makes me tread on my high places.”
— Habakkuk 3:19 (ESV)

Who Are the Iranian and Palestinian Peoples Historically? Both groups trace their spiritual and ethnic roots back to the ancient Near East.

• Iranians descend from the ancient Persians. In the Old Testament, Persia was both a tool of judgment and a vessel of restoration. King Cyrus of Persia famously allowed the Jews to return to Jerusalem and rebuild the Temple (Ezra 1:1-4).
• Palestinians are not directly descended from a specific biblical nation but were connected to the ancient Philistines. The term "Palestine" was a Roman designation to erase the Jewish identity of the land of Israel after the Bar Kokhba revolt (135 AD).

While the Iranians (modern-day Persians) had moments of cooperation with Israel in the Old Testament, today both Iran and Palestinian leaders have become among the most vocal enemies of Israel’s existence.

Many assume Islam is as old as Judaism or Christianity. It is not.

Islam began in the 7th century AD, about 600 years after Jesus. Muhammad, its founder, claimed to receive revelations from an angel (identified as Gabriel) and began preaching in Mecca. These messages formed the Quran. He later fled to Medina and gained power militarily. He died and was buried there—and to this day, his corpse is revered in contrast to the resurrected Christ, who lives.

Unlike the God of the Bible, who invites relationship, love, and grace, Islam teaches a system of works, obedience, and fear, with no guarantee of salvation. Its concept of God (Allah) is unknowable, distant, and arbitrary.

"Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life. He does not come into judgment, but has passed from death to life."
—John 5:24 (ESV)

Shortly after Muhammad’s death, Islam split into two major sects:

• Sunnis believed leadership should be selected by consensus (eventually choosing Abu Bakr).
• Shias believed leadership should remain in Muhammad’s family, beginning with his cousin/son-in-law Ali.

This divide has caused centuries of violence:

• Iran is Shia and funds Shia militias (like Hezbollah).
• Saudi Arabia is Sunni and funds Sunni groups.

They hate each other almost as much as they hate Israel. Bombings, assassinations, and holy wars between these two groups continue to this day. It is a war for control disguised as religious purity.

"For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every vile practice."
—James 3:16 (ESV)

You don’t have to be a theologian to feel the impact of these ideologies.

• They influence college campuses, where pro-Hamas chants masquerade as justice.
• They shape news narratives, where Israel is the villain for defending its people.
• They affect legal systems, as radical Islamist groups push for Sharia-based laws in Western democracies.

The average person, especially those who are spiritually passive, becomes easily manipulated by half-truths and emotional arguments. Without knowledge of history and truth, we become blind pawns in a spiritual war.

"My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge."
—Hosea 4:6 (ESV)

Islam is not confined to the Middle East. Through immigration, media, oil money, and cultural pressure, it has:

• Expanded across Africa, aggressively converting and persecuting Christians.
• Gained ground in India, where tensions with Hindus escalate.
• Penetrated Europe and America, using freedom of speech and religion as tools to establish footholds.

While many Muslims live peacefully, radical elements are working strategically, generation by generation, to establish dominance.

"Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep's clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves."
—Matthew 7:15 (ESV)

The god of Islam demands submission but offers no intimacy.

• There is no assurance of salvation.
• There is no Fatherhood of God.
• There is no Savior who bears your sins.

Islam replaces grace with striving, the cross with conquest, and love with law.

Christianity says: It is finished. Islam says: Do more, be more, or burn.

"But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us."
—Romans 5:8 (ESV)

What Can We Do?

• Pray for truth to be revealed and for Muslims to encounter Jesus through dreams, Scripture, and the testimony of believers.
• Study the Word. If we don’t know what we believe, we will be manipulated by what we don’t understand.
• Speak up when you see Israel slandered and lies spread.
• Support ministries and missions reaching Muslim-majority nations.
• Stay bold and clear about the gospel: Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life.

A fractured religion is at war with itself and with the world, but its greatest threat is how it deceives and dulls the minds of those not rooted in Christ.

The war is not just overland. It’s over souls.

Let us not be passive. Let us be rooted in truth, vigilant in prayer, and bold in faith.

"If the foundations are destroyed, what can the righteous do?"
—Psalm 11:3 (ESV)

We stand on the unshakable foundation of Jesus Christ. That is our hope in every storm, our light in every darkness, and our truth in every age.

Who Says I am Strange?

 

I was once called a “strange child.” That label came from a school psychologist who told my mom, “She has a strange way of thinking.” At the time, I didn’t fully understand it, but the words stuck. They quietly whispered through the years, shaping my confidence and sometimes limiting my willingness to speak boldly—especially in situations where I wasn’t sure I’d be accepted.

I’ve carried that label longer than I should have. But lately, I’ve started to see it differently.

Oddly enough, the shift came during one of my many viewings of Doctor Strange. Yes, I’m one of those Marvel fans who loves the action and adventure—but also the ideas. This movie in particular always gets me thinking. The storyline dives into questions I’ve quietly wondered for years: Is reality fixed? Do we actually see the full picture? Can science and faith coexist?

In one scene, Doctor Strange explains how physical matter is made up of quantum particles—tiny building blocks of everything we see. These particles behave in ways that defy logic. When we observe them, they appear to follow a clear path. But when we’re not observing them, they don’t just disappear. They exist in a “field of possibilities,” in constant movement. Not just here or there—but everywhere. It’s called the wave function, and it’s one of the most mind-blowing truths of quantum physics:

An object’s particles don’t settle into a single path until they are observed. Until then, they exist in many possibilities at once.

That alone is enough to make your head spin. But here’s what really moved me: our focus, our attention, our observation actually determines what we see and experience. What appears solid and singular becomes so because we’re paying attention to it. What we don't observe remains unseen and undefined.

Now think about that from a spiritual perspective.

The Bible tells us in Hebrews 11:3 (ESV),

“By faith we understand that the universe was created by the word of God, so that what is seen was not made out of things that are visible.”

Long before quantum theory, God already told us that the seen world came from the unseen. It’s not just poetic—it’s scientific. He is the source of both the visible and the invisible, the defined and the infinite.

This understanding deepens when I reflect on how God interacts with our lives. My husband and I often talk about the balance between God's sovereignty and our free will. We’re not robots, placed on Earth to be moved like pawns. We make choices. Yet somehow, God—who sees every possible outcome—guides our lives toward His purpose. How?

Because He sees the entire field of possibilities.

While we see one path, one outcome, one reality—God sees all of them. He sees the wave, not just the particle. He isn’t limited by what we observe or understand. Psalm 147:5 says,

“Great is our Lord, and abundant in power; his understanding is beyond measure.”

Romans 8:28 reassures us:

“And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.”

How can “all things” work for our good unless God sees “all things”—every outcome, every reality, every unseen ripple?

Maybe that “strange way of thinking” that defined me as a child wasn’t a flaw—it was a glimpse into something deeper. Maybe God wired my mind to wonder, to ask, to see the spiritual in the scientific and the divine in the unseen. Maybe strangeness is a form of spiritual sight—a willingness to believe there is more than what meets the eye.

In a universe where particles dance unseen until we look, how can we not marvel at a God who holds it all together?

“He is before all things, and in him all things hold together.” – Colossians 1:17 (ESV)

The world is far more mysterious than we think. Science doesn’t diminish faith—it deepens it. Every atom, every particle, every mystery points to a Creator who is infinitely powerful, deeply personal, and lovingly present in every possibility.

So if you’ve ever been called “strange”—welcome. You might just be seeing something others have yet to observe. And in that, you are closer to the wonder of a God who sees everything, even the waves we miss.

When Light Isn't Light: Discernment in a Spiritually Blended World

Would you sense it if your child was being gently introduced to sorcery—wrapped in glitter, good vibes, and family fun? In today’s society, spiritual darkness doesn’t march in wearing horns—it glides in under the banners of wellness, empowerment, healing, and enlightenment. Events that sound like wholesome family entertainment often serve as open doors to deceptive spiritual influences.

This is not about the simple, wholesome use of herbs for easing ailments, or growing garden produce to nourish our bodies. God has given us His creation for our well-being. But what we are speaking of here carries far greater spiritual undertones. These practices are increasingly tied to belief systems and rituals rooted in mysticism, energy manipulation, and New Age philosophy that are contrary to God’s truth.

Let’s take a deeper look at a common modern-day invitation:

“Come join us for a summer solstice fair. Shop for items crafted by our area's most talented artisans offering handmade jewelry, skin care products, soaps, artwork, books, and more. Explore alternative health care options with one of our versatile energy workers. Sit down with one of our insightful readers, experienced in tarot, oracle, astrology, and more.”

It sounds innocent—creative, inclusive, fun for the whole family. But this is precisely how deception works: by cloaking the spiritually dangerous in a language of positivity, beauty, and health.

Behind artisan booths and glittering crystals lies a dangerous rebranding of ancient spiritual practices that Scripture identifies as offensive to God. What we once taught our children to avoid is now presented in curated booths with pastel signage, soft music, and free samples.

2 Corinthians 11:14-15 (ESV): “And no wonder, for even Satan disguises himself as an angel of light. So it is no surprise if his servants, also, disguise themselves as servants of righteousness. Their end will correspond to their deeds.”

What used to be whispered in secrecy is now proudly posted in community event pages, shared on social media, and hosted in parks and fairgrounds. These gatherings often include words like:

• “Energy alignment”

• “Chakra healing”

• “Spiritual awakening”

• “Higher self guidance”

• “Sacred feminine”

These aren’t just creative expressions—they are spiritual claims that open the door to beliefs, rituals, and powers not aligned with the Holy Spirit.

Deuteronomy 18:10-12 (ESV): “There shall not be found among you anyone who burns his son or his daughter as an offering, anyone who practices divination or tells fortunes or interprets omens, or a sorcerer or a charmer or a medium or a necromancer...for whoever does these things is an abomination to the Lord.”

Many modern spiritual fairs make a pointed effort to appear family-friendly. They advertise “kids’ crystal workshops,” art tents, drum circles, and petting zoos. But while children may be coloring dreamcatchers or planting ‘wish gardens,’ they’re also being slowly exposed to practices that spiritually condition them to accept New Age worldviews.

It’s not just about crafts and community—it’s about normalizing spiritual concepts that conflict with biblical truth.

Ephesians 5:6 (ESV): “Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of these things the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience.”

Proverbs 22:6 (ESV): “Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.”

As parents, grandparents, mentors, and believers, we must ask: Are we protecting our families not just from what is evil—but also from what merely appears good but is spiritually harmful?

Marketing for these events is deeply intentional. It doesn’t mention witchcraft or the occult—it speaks instead of “healing,” “wholeness,” and “alignment.”

Words to watch for:

• “Awakening”

• “Sacred journey”

• “Universal energy”

• “Reiki”

• “Spirit guides”

• “Moon magic”

These terms have become so normalized that many don’t question them. But they are rooted in spiritual systems that directly oppose God’s authority and truth.

Colossians 2:8 (ESV): “See to it that no one takes you captive by philosophy and empty deceit, according to human tradition, according to the elemental spirits of the world, and not according to Christ.”

How to Guard Your Heart and Home

1. Pray for spiritual discernment. Ask the Holy Spirit to sharpen your awareness.

2. Examine invitations. Read event descriptions carefully. Look beyond the surface.

3. Teach children biblical truth. Equip them to discern between light and darkness.

4. Speak up in love. Gently help others recognize deception. You may be the only warning they hear.

1 Peter 5:8 (ESV): “Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.”

Ephesians 4:15 (ESV): “Speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ.”

You don’t need to be afraid, but you do need to be alert. Satan rarely shows up as a monster—he often shows up as a mentor, healer, or entertainer. But the Word of God equips us to see through illusions.

Romans 13:12 (ESV): “The night is far gone; the day is at hand. So then let us cast off the works of darkness and put on the armor of light.”

Let’s stay rooted in Scripture, walking in truth, and training the next generation to recognize deception—not because we’re fearful, but because we’re faithful.

John 8:31-32 (ESV): “If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”

When the Words Sting: Healing from the Hurt of Slander

Have you ever poured hot water on an ant hill, thinking you’d wiped it out—only to find new hills forming days later? We tried it once. The steam rose, and we thought we’d finally stopped the invasion. But some of those ants escaped. And not long after, they were back—building again, this time even closer to our home.

Slander is a lot like that.

Someone says something false about you—twists a story, speaks out of anger, or spreads lies in an attempt to hurt or control a situation. It might come from jealousy, revenge, or just a careless heart. And the damage doesn’t stay contained. It spreads—quietly, persistently—just like those ants.

It’s heartbreaking when someone paints you falsely, and others believe them. The sting is sharp, but deeper still is the ache when the person doing the damage is someone you trusted. A friend. A family member. Someone who once walked with you—perhaps even a fellow believer.

Jesus understood this deeply. In Mark 7:20–23 (ESV), He tells us:

“What comes out of a person is what defiles him. For from within, out of the heart of man, come evil thoughts… slander, pride, foolishness. All these evil things come from within, and they defile a person.”

God didn’t leave us without guidance when it comes to dealing with conflict inside His body. When someone is gossiping or spreading untruths, Scripture gives a clear, grace-filled path to follow.

Jesus taught in Matthew 18:15–17 that if someone sins against you, you should go to them privately first:

• Step One: Go directly to the person. Don’t vent to others—speak with them in love and humility.
• Step Two: If they won’t listen, take a mature believer with you as a witness and try again.
• Step Three: If they still refuse to change, Scripture calls us to step back, entrusting the matter to God.

This pattern isn’t about revenge—it’s about restoration and protecting the body of Christ from division. If the gossip continues even after you've followed these steps, you forgive—but you don’t have to stay close. You guard your peace by creating space, not out of bitterness but out of wisdom.

“If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all.”
—Romans 12:18 (ESV)

Gossip Has Consequences—God Takes It Seriously Scripture speaks clearly and repeatedly about the damage caused by gossip and slander:

• Proverbs 16:28 (ESV): “A dishonest man spreads strife, and a whisperer separates close friends.”
• Proverbs 20:19 (ESV): “Whoever goes about slandering reveals secrets; therefore do not associate with a simple babbler.”
• Ephesians 4:29 (ESV): “Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up…”
• Leviticus 19:16 (ESV): “You shall not go around as a slanderer among your people…”
• Psalm 34:13 (ESV): “Keep your tongue from evil and your lips from speaking deceit.”
• 2 Corinthians 12:20 (ESV): “…that perhaps there may be quarreling, jealousy, anger, hostility, slander, gossip…”
• James 1:26 (ESV): “If anyone thinks he is religious and does not bridle his tongue… this person's religion is worthless.”
• Romans 1:29 (ESV): “They were filled with all manner of unrighteousness… full of envy, murder, strife, deceit, maliciousness. They are gossips.”
• Matthew 12:36 (ESV): “I tell you, on the day of judgment people will give account for every careless word they speak.”

Gossip isn’t small in God’s eyes. It’s not harmless. It wrecks reputations, divides relationships, and dishonors the gospel.

Sometimes, even after doing everything right, the person doesn’t acknowledge their sin. They may even continue the behavior. That’s when you set up a healthy boundary—not as a punishment, but as protection. Stepping away allows space for healing and gives your heart room to process and release.

“Keep your heart with all vigilance, for from it flow the springs of life.”
—Proverbs 4:23 (ESV)

Forgiveness does not mean pretending it didn’t hurt. It means you choose not to carry the weight of resentment. You don’t allow the offense to take up real estate in your heart or your mind.

In your pain, you are not alone. God is not distant from your wounds—He’s present, near, and deeply caring.

“Trust in him at all times, O people; pour out your heart before him; God is a refuge for us.”
—Psalm 62:8 (ESV)

Bring your pain to Him. Let Him be your defender.

“Having a good conscience, so that, when you are slandered, those who revile your good behavior in Christ may be put to shame.”
—1 Peter 3:16 (ESV)

“For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes…”
—Romans 1:16 (ESV)

“For the word of the cross is folly to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.”
—1 Corinthians 1:18 (ESV)

You may not always get to defend your name—but God can. And He will.

So what do we do when the sting of slander still lingers?

• We follow Jesus’ steps for reconciliation.
• We speak the truth in love, but we don’t let their words define us.
• We set boundaries to guard our hearts and maintain peace.
• We forgive, because we have been forgiven.
• We stand firm, because God's power is still working in our lives.

Even if some of the “ants” got away… even if the damage seems beyond repair… God is still working. He is still restoring. And He is still writing beauty into the broken places.

Ground and Poured Out: How God Transforms Us Through Life’s Pressures

 

The Millstone Grind & Cafe, Carrollton, OH

My husband Bruce and I once had plans—beautiful, hopeful plans. We dreamed of certain things in life, had expectations of what our future would look like. But over time, illness entered our story. It quietly, then powerfully, altered the course of our days. We've had to make changes we never expected. We've lost some dreams. We've shed some tears. We've grieved the life we imagined.

Yet in the midst of this painful journey, I have found something surprising: God is still at work. He has not wasted one moment. He has been transforming me—even in my disappointment. Maybe even especially in it. It’s in the letting go that I’ve learned to lean in.

Proverbs 16:9 says, "The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps."

Sometimes, the steps He establishes take us through terrain we never would have chosen. But that doesn't mean it's the wrong path. In fact, it might be the very one that transforms us.

I love coffee. I enjoy it in the morning, in the afternoon, alone, or even better—with friends. Coffee has become a symbol of pause, of community, of comfort in my life. But here’s the thing: coffee doesn't start as that warm, comforting drink. It starts as a hard little bean.

To get that rich flavor, that inviting aroma, the bean has to be ground. Crushed. Pressed. Hot water has to pour over it. And only then does it release what’s inside.

Isn’t that how life works sometimes?

There are seasons when it feels like everything is pressing down on us. Crushing us. The grind of caregiving, the heat of stress, the sharp sting of disappointment. But what if those very pressures are the tools God uses to draw out what He planted deep within us?

Romans 5:3-4 says, "We rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope."

That’s transformation. God takes what feels like destruction and uses it for growth. And like coffee, it’s not until the bean is ground and poured over with heat that the beauty and aroma are released. That process isn't pleasant, but it is purposeful.

Pain has a way of pulling up what’s buried beneath the surface. In trials, our hidden fears and unhealthy habits rise to the top. Maybe it's control, resentment, insecurity, or pride. These aren't things God wants to shame us for. They're things He wants to heal.

Isaiah 48:10 says, "Behold, I have refined you, but not as silver; I have tried you in the furnace of affliction."

That furnace isn’t punishment. It’s purification. Just like metal is purified by fire, our character is refined through hardship. Through our trials, God gently invites us to hand over the very things that are holding us back.

When Bruce got sick, I wanted so badly to hold it all together—to be strong, to fix what was broken. But what I found was that I couldn’t be everyone’s savior. And I wasn’t meant to be. God had to gently strip away my pride and self-reliance so I could fall into His arms.

Ephesians 4:22-24 calls us to "put off your old self... and be renewed in the spirit of your minds... created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness."

Maybe God is using your disappointment to produce compassion. Maybe He’s using your waiting to cultivate patience. Maybe what feels like a breakdown is actually a breakthrough in your soul.

Think of Joseph, thrown into a pit and then into prison, wrongly accused, forgotten by those he helped. But in that season of hiddenness, God was forming him. Molding him into the man who would save nations.

We don’t have to enjoy the grind, but we can trust the One doing the grinding.

Here’s the beautiful part: after the grinding comes the pouring.

Your pain can become a place of connection, empathy, and ministry. Your story—as hard as it may be—can be a comfort to someone else. What once brought you shame or sorrow can now bring someone else hope.

2 Corinthians 1:3-4 says, "Blessed be... the Father of mercies... who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction."

You don’t have to have the perfect life to bless someone. You just have to be willing to pour it out.

We are all in process. And in our weakness, God’s strength becomes visible.

You may not be where you thought you'd be. But you are becoming who God has called you to be. Not despite your struggles—but because of them.

Don’t resist the grind. Let God do His work in you. Bring Him your disappointments, your losses, your fears. Let Him shape you through it all. Yield to His process, because transformation takes time.

Philippians 1:6 reminds us, "He who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ."

God doesn't just want to fix you. He wants to form Christ in you. And He will use every challenge, every pressure, and every painful surrender to make you a poured-out vessel of grace.

So next time you sip your coffee, remember: transformation takes time. And the grind is worth it.

Let the aroma of your life testify to God’s faithful work.

When Retirement Comes Early: Finding Hope in the Unexpected

 

Bruce in Egypt at the possible burning bush of Moses.

Retirement is something we often picture far down the road—a season of rest, travel, and freedom after decades of hard work. But what happens when it comes early… and not by choice?

That’s the road we’re now walking.

Bruce’s retirement came before we were ready. His disability and the need for a life-changing implant forced him to step away from work earlier than we planned. While I’m still working, he’s home navigating this new, slower-paced life—one that comes with both physical limits and emotional weight. It’s not just a shift in schedule; it’s a shift in identity, expectations, and dreams.

And we’ve learned—this isn’t going to be a smooth ride.

The world doesn't talk much about what happens when only one of you retires early. When one spouse is still carrying the demands of work, and the other is suddenly handed hours with no clear direction. We've found ourselves wading through a mixture of tension, confusion, and grace. Looking back, I can see we’ve been moving through several emotional and spiritual phases—what I now call the Vacation Phase, the Loss Phase, the Reinventing Phase, and the New Me.

At first, there was a strange kind of relief. No more early alarms for Bruce. No job stress. No juggling medical needs around a work schedule. We told ourselves we’d rest, breathe, and find a new rhythm.

But it didn’t take long for the imbalance to show. I was still clocking in and managing responsibilities, while Bruce was left with long, quiet hours that offered more questions than peace. Even when your body needs rest, your mind still searches for purpose.

“Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” — Matthew 11:28 (ESV)

Yes, Jesus offers rest—but the kind that goes far deeper than just empty hours. This phase reminded us that we need more than just time off. We need spiritual rest. Emotional healing. Purpose that comes from who we are in Christ, not what we do.

This is where it got heavy. The hardest part.

Bruce was used to being productive, needed, active. Now, with his implant and medical limitations, so much of that has changed. He has to be careful—he can’t do all the things he once loved. And while we’re grateful for the medical technology that helps him, it comes with restrictions that changed daily life in unexpected ways.

And so the losses came.

Not just a loss of income or job title—but a deeper loss of identity, of usefulness, of relationships once built in the workplace. For me, it meant shifting roles too. Trying to be supportive while still working full-time. Carrying the emotional weight of change on both our shoulders.

There were quiet days where Bruce felt aimless, and I felt helpless. Frustration bubbled to the surface more than once. Expectations clashed. It wasn’t anyone’s fault—we were just grieving different things, at the same time.

“My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.” — Psalm 73:26 (ESV)

“For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.” — Jeremiah 29:11 (ESV)

Even in the middle of this grief, God kept whispering that this wasn’t the end of our story. That there was still purpose. Still beauty to be found. But first, we had to let go of what was, in order to begin seeing what could be.

After the grief of loss, you might expect clarity to come quickly. But we’ve learned that reinventing life after unexpected retirement—especially one driven by health needs—isn’t straightforward.

Bruce finds himself surrounded by open hours but unsure where to begin. Ideas that once felt exciting now seem unreachable. His limitations mean he must be cautious, and the unknown feels overwhelming. The fear of failure—or simply not knowing what’s possible—can feel paralyzing. Sleep, at times, becomes an escape from the hard questions: What now? What am I supposed to do with my life now?

And for me? I want to help. I want to suggest a plan, create a path, offer direction. But I’m learning that one of the hardest and holiest parts of love is stepping back—allowing someone you care for to wrestle, to discover, to listen for God’s voice on their own terms.  This is no easy task for myself but necessary.

In our wrestling, I’m reminded of Moses—a man who had already lived a full life, spent 40 years in Pharaoh’s palace and another 40 in the wilderness tending sheep. It was at 80 years old that God met him at the burning bush and said: "I’m not finished with you. I have a mission for you."

“Come, I will send you to Pharaoh that you may bring my people, the children of Israel, out of Egypt.” — Exodus 3:10 (ESV)

Moses didn’t jump up with confidence. He hesitated. He argued. He felt unqualified and unsure. Sound familiar?

But God wasn’t looking for youthful strength—He was looking for a willing heart.

“But Moses said to God, ‘Who am I that I should go to Pharaoh and bring the children of Israel out of Egypt?’ He said, ‘But I will be with you…’” — Exodus 3:11–12a (ESV)

That’s the truth we cling to in this season. God is not done with Bruce. He’s not done with you. No matter your age, your energy level, your limitations—if your heart is open, He can still work through you.

This season hasn’t just reshaped Bruce. It’s reshaped me.

I’ve had to grow in trust—not just in God, but in the process of waiting. I’m learning how to love without over-managing, to sit in the ache of “not yet” while still holding on to hope for “what’s next.” Watching someone you love struggle to rediscover purpose is one of the deepest forms of heartbreak and growth.

But God is also teaching me something else: This story is still being written.

Just as Moses found his calling later in life—not because of his abilities, but because of his availability—we’re learning that usefulness in God’s kingdom is never about stage of life. It’s about surrender.

“So even to old age and gray hairs, O God, do not forsake me, until I proclaim your might to another generation…” — Psalm 71:18 (ESV)

I don’t know what Bruce’s new calling will look like yet. He may not either. But I do believe God is preparing him. And me. And all of us who are willing to say: “Here I am, Lord. Use me.”

That is the “new me.” A little wearier. A little more raw. But also, more deeply convinced that even now—especially now—God is not done.

Dear Graduate: These Are the Words I Wish I’d Said Sooner

 

To the graduate who’s stepping into the next chapter—
You did it. You crossed a major milestone. Whether you sprinted across the stage or crawled to the finish line, you made it. And that’s worth celebrating.

This isn’t just a pat on the back or a sentimental send-off. These are the things I wish I had said more often, more clearly, and more intentionally to the young people in my life over the years. These are truths forged from life experience, prayer, mistakes, and God’s grace. They are for you—not just to remember today, but to carry with you into every tomorrow.

Let’s get something straight right away: you’re going to fail at something. Probably more than once. But that doesn’t make you a failure.

There’s a difference between failing and being a failure. Failing means you tried. You stepped out. You risked something. And in that process, you learned. You gained wisdom that no textbook could ever teach you. Some of the strongest, most faithful people I know wear scars from moments when things didn’t go as planned.

“For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.”
—2 Timothy 1:7

God didn’t design you to live small and safe. He gave you courage. So don’t let the fear of messing up stop you from stepping out in faith. Apply for the job. Start the project. Admit the mistake. Say yes to the opportunity that scares you a little. That’s where growth happens.

You will have moments when cutting corners looks easier. When everyone else is doing it. When you could fudge a little detail, slide under the radar, or hide behind a half-truth. Don’t. Integrity is one of the most valuable things you own—and once lost, it’s hard to get back.

Integrity builds trust. It earns respect. It opens doors that talent alone never could.

“Whoever walks in integrity walks securely, but he who makes his ways crooked will be found out.”
—Proverbs 10:9

Even if no one else sees, God sees. And He honors those who walk in truth. When you choose what’s right—even when it costs you—you’re not just making a good decision. You’re shaping the kind of person you’re becoming.

You will never outgrow the influence of the people around you. That’s not weakness—it’s reality. Choose your circle with care.

“Make no friendship with a man given to anger, nor go with a wrathful man, lest you learn his ways and entangle yourself in a snare.”
—Proverbs 22:24–25

If you spend time with people who constantly complain, cut corners, or gossip, it will rub off. But if you surround yourself with people who pursue excellence, love deeply, live with integrity, and push you to grow—you will rise with them.

Find friends who tell you the truth in love, who hold you accountable, and who remind you of God’s call on your life when you forget. And be that kind of friend to others.

Graduating doesn’t mean you’re done learning—it just means your learning is about to look different. Be teachable. Ask questions. Seek mentors. Be open to correction.

There will be moments when you think you know more than you do. That’s human. But the wisest people are usually the ones still learning.

“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction.”
—Proverbs 1:7

Stay curious. Be willing to grow. God often teaches us through unexpected people and experiences. Don’t let pride close your heart to His voice.

The world will try to measure you by your grades, your salary, your success, your social status. But none of those things define your value. Your worth was established the moment God created you in His image—and it was sealed when Jesus died and rose for you.

“I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made.”
—Psalm 139:14

You don’t have to strive for approval. You already have it from the only One who matters most. Let that truth give you peace and confidence when the world gets loud.

You don’t have to have it all figured out. Seriously. If you wait until everything is certain before you move forward, you’ll stay stuck.

Trust God with your next right step. He often reveals His plan little by little. Obedience today creates clarity for tomorrow.

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding.
In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.”
—Proverbs 3:5–6

Sometimes the path looks like detours. Sometimes the dream changes. But God never wastes a step. Keep walking. Keep trusting. Keep your eyes on Him.

Graduation is not the finish line. It’s just the next stretch of the race. And you don’t run it alone.

I believe in you. More importantly, God believes in you—because He made you with intention, for a purpose, in this very moment of history.

So go forward. Be brave. Be kind. Stay grounded in truth. And don’t just survive out there—thrive.