As my husband and I have been tidying our yard this spring, we’ve done some research on weeds. Do you know the difference between flowers and weeds? Weeds are defined as plants out of place or plants growing where they are not desired. According to this definition, even beautiful, well-loved flowers constitute weeds when they grow in locations … [Read more...] about When Virtuous Flowers Become Sinful Weeds
spiritual growth
Battling Laziness
Do you ever struggle to get things done because you just don’t want to work on them? I’ve recently been struggling with this in a few areas of my life. There’s the stack of assorted documents on the corner of my desk that I need to go through. There’s the basket of pants and shirts that need mended. What is it for you? Maybe the overstuffed, … [Read more...] about Battling Laziness
Easter Reflections
I’m rarely at a loss for words. However, today—a day situated between Good Friday and Resurrection Sunday—I find myself with very little to say. Instead, I’m drawn to Scripture as I reflect on the events commemorated on these days. I’ve been reading the words of Isaiah regarding the Suffering Servant—words embodied by Christ centuries after … [Read more...] about Easter Reflections
Spring Cleaning the Heart
While the origins of the term are debated, “spring cleaning” is generally used to describe episodes of intense and thorough cleaning, traditionally completed as the bright warmth of spring illuminates and generates life out of quiescent winter. Just as dust gathers on drapes and grime accumulates on windows, sin can collect in our hearts … [Read more...] about Spring Cleaning the Heart
Memorizing Scripture (Part 2)
Last week, in light of my goal of memorizing at least one Bible verse or passage each month during 2013, I described some reasons why scripture memorization is beneficial. Today, I’ll discuss some approaches to memorizing scripture. No approach is necessarily the “best.” Instead, the most efficient and effective approach for each of us depends … [Read more...] about Memorizing Scripture (Part 2)
12 Lessons Learned in 2012
Every day of 2012 presented opportunities to learn something new. When I reflect on the days of 2012 collectively, several of the lessons I’ve learned stand out. Make keeping in touch with friends from your past a priority. With so many obligations vying for my time and effort, it is tough to maintain contact with friends from my past. In … [Read more...] about 12 Lessons Learned in 2012
Memorizing Scripture (Part 1)
I memorized scripture regularly during my teen years and as an undergraduate student. Over the last several years, my memorization has become sporadic. Thanks to some introspection and goal planning, this is about to change! I’ve set for myself the goal of memorizing at least one Bible verse or passage each month during 2013. Today, I’ll … [Read more...] about Memorizing Scripture (Part 1)
Reflections on Christ’s Humility
This Christmas season I have found myself drawn to an account of the humility of the one who “became flesh and made his dwelling among us” (John 1:14). “In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; … [Read more...] about Reflections on Christ’s Humility
