Did you notice that as soon as retailers packed away Christmas merchandise Valentine products appeared? As I note this metamorphous, my heart is prompted to consider if there is a strategy to merge the message of the two holidays together. Howard Thurman’s poem, “The Work of Christmas” offers a potential strategy by painting a word portrait of the majesty of Christmas and then reminding his readers that the real work begins as the holiday memories are stored:
Read MoreMaking A House A Home
SINGLE AND SERVING
As a Christian woman, trained as a Home Economist, I never expected to be single past my mid-twenties. However, the Lord had a much different plan for me and has gently matured my attitude toward singleness, as well as the purpose of marriage. Rather than marriage simply providing a “permanent roommate” I know now that I should marry only if our united lives would be more effective for the Lord than either of us are in our single state.
Read MoreTHE HOMEMAKER’S HEART AND THE USE OF HER SPIRITUAL GIFTS
Last week I posed the question, “What would be your response if you carefully selected a gift and presented it to someone dear only to have him or her leave it wrapped?” I pray that you were able to meditate upon the suggested principles along with the definitions of the Spiritual Gifts. This week let’s expand our study as we consider the question, “What is the benefit of prayerfully using your Spiritual Gifts to their maximum potential?”
Read MoreTHE SEASONS OF MENTORING
It’s spring!! The trees are budding, the grass is greening, flowers are bursting forth with color, and allergies are afflicting those who are sensitive to pollen. Several years ago, as a new Texas resident, I experienced allergies for the first time. I did not care for them but I do love spring and summer! However, each season has its beauty and challenges just as the seasons of mentoring possess unique qualities. Last month I shared with you the biblical mentoring strategies outlined in Titus 2:3-5 and encouraged you to view your home as your primary venue. The Titus passage provides the biblical foundation for understanding the mentoring relationship. The book of Ruth presents us with a real life example of how mentoring should work. This week I am excited to share with you the seasons of mentoring.
Read MoreMENTORING FROM YOUR HOME
Do you feel that if you are a stay-at-home Mom your ministry opportunities are severely limited? I am excited to share with you that by opening your front door and welcoming a mentoree you can fulfill one of the most important ministry assignments given to women—the Titus 2:3-5 directive!
Read MoreGUESS WHO IS COMING TO DINNER!
As the days shorten and calendar pages are turned thoughts of holiday celebrations begin to occupy our minds. Amidst your planning may I pose a question—who will comprise your holiday guest list this year?
Before you respond, consider these thoughts:
Holidays can be painful times for those without extended family in the immediate area.
It was October of my eighteenth year of life when my Dad stepped into eternity. As a college freshman I not only had to deal with my own grief, I also was faced with the responsibility of helping my mother adjust to a new lifestyle.
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