After living over 50 years, I finally realize my life will never be trouble-free.  Usually, I have long enough to rest after resolving one issue before running into another problem. Most of my troubles are minor annoyances.  I get overwhelmed when I have to deal with several minor issues at one time.  I get tired of finding time to handle these trials, no matter how big or small.  I want a vacation from stress. Jesus never promised us a trouble-free life. John 16:33 is, “I (Jesus) have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will haveRead More →

I become my worst enemy when I think negative thoughts. I feel like I will never succeed. I stuff food down to soothe these feelings. Since I overate again, I feel like a failure that does not deserve to lose weight. I see my mistakes, but God sees me walking away from bondage. I need faith that God has delivered me and continues to guide me. Matthew 21:21 is, “Then Jesus told them, ‘I tell you the truth, if you have faith and don’t doubt, you can do things like this and so much more. You can even say to this mountain, ‘May you beRead More →

I don’t start each new year with resolutions. Instead, I make goals throughout the year. In 2018, I decided to finish my book. Today, I am almost halfway done with this project. My first thought is, “I have failed.” The truth is I am closer to finishing this book than I was a year ago. Instead of dwelling on where I fall short, God gives me strength to finish any goal He helps me to set. Jeremiah 29:11 is, “‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ says the Lord. ‘These are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a futureRead More →

My Christmas “to do” list includes cleaning for holiday guests, shopping for last-minute gifts, and baking treats. Actually, I am closer to being done than I have been in years past. In all this rush, I fail to celebrate Jesus, the reason for the this season. Busyness distracts me and keeps me from truly worshiping Him. Romans 12:1 is “And so, dear brothers and sisters, I plead with you to give your bodies to God because of all he has done for you. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice – the kind he will find acceptable. This is truly the way to worshipRead More →

I cram as much holiday cheer into December as I can. We had two parties last weekend and several more this week. My goal to create matching stockings did not happen this year.  I quit looking at Christmas Pinterest boards because I am done stressing over perfection. I spend too much money and time shopping for that perfect gift. On top on holiday stress, my everyday struggles threaten to rob my Christmas joy. God’s strength carries me through any trial I face.  Isaiah 40:29 is, “He gives power to the weak and strength to the powerless.” (Holy Bible, New Living Translation, 2015).  His power isRead More →