“O Lord, you have searched me and you know me.” This declaration, which begins Psalm 139, gives us permission to speak our mind freely with God. We have confidence that he can sort out what was meant or felt—and we can pray with the same …
Read MoreDear Newly Betrayed
When we begin to allow ourselves to believe God remains unchanging and faithful—no matter what, then we have already taken our first steps toward healing. Getting to this point felt like an impossibility for me—maybe for you, too? Healing together, in community—day by day, moment …
Read MoreDepending on God
Dear Newly Betrayed, You’re learning to be honest with yourself and in time, you’ll find ways to be honest with others about the struggles you face—even when no one you know can relate. As you grapple with trust issues, you’ll learn to depend upon God …
Read MoreHe’ll Never Leave You
This is me. After a grocery run, pincurls and chubby-cheeked, opening a package and eating off all the ends of the hotdogs before my mom noticed. When you look back over old photographs of yourself, do you ever wonder, “What was God thinking? Did He …
Read MoreJOY: Grace Recognized
I’ll never forget that October Saturday with the brilliant sunshine and multi-colored leaves, all the crispy scents of autumn in the air. We were about to embark on our zoo outing. My little one couldn’t wait. Within seconds, everything changed. Chaos. Despair. Crazy desperation. Can’t …
Read MoreAct Justly. Love Mercy. Walk Humbly.
In the Old Testament Book of Micah, chapter 6, the prophet tells how God had been patient with the Israel nation—how He had lovingly guided them and given every opportunity to return to Him. God asks His people, “What have I done to you? How …
Read MoreNothing Separates Us from His Love
I’ve been sharing some about repetition. Specifically, when words present themselves multiple times within a few days—I notice. Perhaps God uses repetition so I will commit it to memory, to never forget His words. As I read Psalm 136, it recounts the never-ending story of …
Read MoreRefined by Fire
Remember the story of Joseph in the Old Testament? His brothers’ betrayal? After Joseph rose to power, he pronounced these famous words in Genesis 45 when he revealed himself to his brothers: “Come closer to me, I am Joseph your brother whom you sold into …
Read MoreSongs of Joy
“He who goes out weeping, carrying seed to sow, will return with songs of joy, carrying sheaves with him.” Psalm 126:6 NIV Wow! Do you see the promise in this verse? There is hope! Sorrow being turned into joy! God promises to restore what is lost and we …
Read MoreKnowing Your Worth
Years ago when I first began counseling, my therapist would often say, “Debra, you know your worth.” This statement would always cause confusion and I would think to myself, “No. I really don’t know my worth. If I did, I would be standing up for …
Read More