Encouragement
Taking Every Thought Captive
Controlling my thoughts. Oh, how I’ve struggled through the years. Then God took me by the hand and taught me the importance of taking every thought captive. Honestly, I didn’t believe I could do it. But I learned that in His strength, it was possible. But it wasn’t easy. As a brand-new missionary, I basked in the…
A Lesson in Contentment
The definition of contentment is the state of being happy and satisfied. I often wonder, are some people born contented? Does it come more naturally to some? Can it be learned? How can I find contentment? The apostle Paul wrote about contentment in his letter to the Philippians. He explained: I am not saying this because I…
You Reap What You Sow
This week I’ve been thinking a lot about the old saying, “You reap what you sow.” Maybe it’s my age, concern for struggling friends and family, or the current news cycle, but my brain keeps returning to this adage. Today, I listened to a song by Sarah Graves, and the words of the chorus continue…
Fireweed: Beauty from Ashes
When I think of Alaska, one of the first images to cross my mind is of a field of fireweed. Fireweed flourishes along the roads, on the hillsides, and in your backyard. Its glowing magenta color transforms the landscape. Last week, as I drove along the Turnagain Pass on my way to Seward, I was…
My Balcony People
While living in Eastern Europe, I developed a fascination with balconies. I confess I was a balcony peeper. Comparing how different neighbors used their balconies was my new hobby. One balcony appeared strictly utilitarian, and the next would be a veritable haven of flowering plants with an inviting table and chairs. I loved watching my…
Called to Alaska: Ministering in the Hard Places
As the Executive Director of the Alaska Baptist Convention, my husband receives scores of inquiries about being a pastor in Alaska. The lure of ministering in the Last Frontier excites the heart of many a pastor, especially if he happens to enjoy hunting, fishing, and a wilderness adventure. Long-time Alaskans have seen many pastors come and…
Try a Little Kindness
During the last 25 years of my life, I feel like I lived 20 of those years on an airplane. Long haul flights or short hops, it doesn’t matter. Airline travel is stressful, and nowhere is that more apparent than at the ticket counter. It’s a place where trying a little kindness could improve everyone’s…
Grieving From Afar
“For I will turn their mourning into joy and will comfort them and give them joy for their sorrow.” Jeremiah 31:13b (NASB) In my wildest dreams, I never imagined living in so many exotic places. I’ve lived in Alaska, Russia, Kamchatka, Greece, and Macedonia. Following God’s call on my life led to many amazing adventures. This…
Language Learning: A Study in Humiliation
If you want a lesson in humility, move to another country where you don’t speak the language. During my many years of living overseas, one of the hardest and most humbling experiences was learning a new language. I moved overseas, believing myself to be a well-educated and competent woman. Suddenly, I felt like a helpless…
Hospitality: Entertainment or Sharing Life
Hospitality: the friendly reception and treatment of guests or strangers. (Dictionary.com) When I moved to Russia, I realized that I didn’t have the gift of hospitality. This fact became abundantly clear the night of the big flood. Several Russian students had come to our apartment to watch a wedding video of a Russian friend who…
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