“A joyful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones” (Proverbs 17:22, ESV). Not long after my oldest son’s death, I needed a laughter reality check. I am a solemn person, and grief intensified my lack of humor. Winter had set in, and we were cooped up in the house. I kept getting sick, and the discs in my lower back weren’t staying in place. My bones literally ached with sorrow, and I gave into bitterness over my loss. Little things that I would have previously shrugged off weighed heavier on me. I sunk inward. My…
Seek Wisdom by DiAnn Mills
Give instruction to a wise man, and he will be still wiser; teach a righteous man, and he will increase in learning. Proverbs 9:9 ESV Biblical wisdom is a remarkable friend, a true companion for all times and all situations. Wisdom is mentioned in the Bible approximately 228 times, which says God wants us to seek wisdom and apply it to our lives. Its traits are birthed in God’s character. What does seeking wisdom mean from God’s perspective? Here are 10 truths about pursuing wisdom. True wisdom only comes from God. For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding (Proverbs 2:6)….
ACFW New Releases for September 2024
September 2024 New ReleasesMore in-depth descriptions of these books can be found on the ACFW Fiction Finder website Contemporary General: Kristen by Dawn M Klinge — In this heartwarming tale, discover the extraordinary potential that lies within embracing the present and opening one’s heart to the unanticipated blessings of life’s sweetest surprises.(Contemporary Romance, Independently Published) Contemporary Romance: Escape to Whispering Creek by Barbara M Britton — Can a gregarious office manager and rehabilitating business owner find love while fighting accusations of white-collar crime (Contemporary Romance from White Rose Publishing [Pelican]) Before We Were Us by Denise Hunter — A temporary…
A Soft Response by Loretta Eidson
A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger. Proverbs 15:1 (NIV) Red-faced, hands thrashing through the air, mouth spewing anger settles nothing other than the self-satisfaction of telling someone off in a display of embarrassing behavior. Some may refer to the episode as “blowing a gasket.” Be honest. Have you ever experienced a moment like this? One time, twenty years ago, during my son’s rebellious and disrespectful young adult years, anger got the best of me. I literally screamed and pounded my head against the wall in total frustration because he refused to do what…
Plans With a Purpose by Virginia Grounds
Many are the plans in the mind of a man, But it is the purpose of the Lord that will stand. Proverbs 19:21 ESV “No more pages, how can that be?” That was my question when I realized my desk calendar ended at the end of June instead of December. It is a calendar in addition to a daily list that keeps me organized. As a multi-task person, they are critical. This list includes what needs to be accomplished each day and a plan for how to do so. I was overwhelmed with frustration when I realized my daily lists…