Take your next step

This week many of us will celebrate Valentine’s Day. We will spend way too much money on cards, flowers, and a special dinner.  Most spouses or girlfriends will appreciate the special attention they receive on that special day.  But what about the other 364 days of the year?  My years of working as a marriage and family therapist suggests one day is not enough. The word most often used in Scripture for “love” is “agape.”  It is a verb.  It…

And when you pray, you must not be like the hypocrites. For they love to stand and pray in the synagogues and at the street corners, that they may be seen by others. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward. But when you pray, go into your room and shut the door and pray to your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you. Matthew 6:5,6 I used to think…

“Iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” — Proverbs 27:17 (NIV) In life, we often encounter moments of challenge, doubt, and darkness. It is during these times that our inner light, our hopes, dreams, and faith can become dim. The world around us might try to extinguish it, whether through negativity, disappointment, or the pressures of daily life. But God, in His wisdom, has given us people who are meant to walk alongside us, friends who can shield and protect that…