“Bless” is a familiar word in church culture and narcissistic hashtags. But the reality of blessing is rarely used in everyday life. I think the lack of intentional blessing is one of the biggest reasons so many people, cities, and nations are such a mess. We neglect, or even refuse, to honor our spouses when …
A Powerful Paraphrase
Un-Afraid
"There were those . . . who set out to discourage them, and make them too afraid to go on building" (Ezra 4:4). The word used for “afraid” in this verse means to be paralyzed in fear, so overwhelmed you forget who you are and whose you are. No more. You’re not a victim, and …
Un-Broken
When your heart is broken, the pain is more than figurative. The damage to your soul can make you feel like a different person, one incapable of experiencing love, joy, and peace. You try to put your heart back together, but every disappointment and stressful situation shatters it again. So you protect the pieces by …
Trading in the Old Thoughts
Something I try to remind myself of when things aren’t going as well as I’d like: With every negative experience, you're learning more about what doesn't work, what you don't want, and what isn't you. I know it's not easy, but if you learn to see the hidden value contained in difficult seasons, you won’t …
