Encouragement — parents

In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth… And God said, “Let there be light,” and there was light. God saw that the light was good… God called the light “day,” and the darkness he called “night.” And there was evening, and there was morning—the first day. —Genesis 1:1-5 What a powerful God we have! He is the ultimate Creator and everything we know was spoken into being by Him. It is God’s spoken word that resulted in His new creation. God SAID, “Let there be light,” and it was so. God SAID, “Let the water under the...

The colorful preschool chairs around the u-shaped table quickly filled with eager little ones. As they each found their place, they wiggled excitedly waiting to say the words they had memorized. It was the same verse each week for a whole month. The story was different, but the words of the verse were repeated often. And they stuck. “He cares for you.” – 1 Peter 5:7 ******* I sat at my kitchen table searching for words to write to a troubled friend. She was going through some difficult days. I had no words of wisdom. My heart ached for her....

Inflation is a significant challenge for almost all of us. After three years of inflation in excess of 6% annually, we are feeling the impact on our personal finances. Recent statistics are showing evidence that many families are relying on credit card and other forms of debt to finance the rising costs of daily life. Credit card debt balances are at record levels and savings levels are at historical lows. Here are 9 ways to win the inflation battle: 1. Give consistently, joyfully, and generously! Though it sounds counter intuitive, God challenges us in Malachi 3:10 to test Him in...

We all have situations in our lives that lead to financial stress. What do we do about it? The Bible is clear that God does not want us living with anxiety. Here are 5 keys to relieving financial stress in your life: 1. ASK “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand” Isaiah 41:10 (NIV). Our first response to a financial challenge needs to be prayer. It is easy for us to want to...

“God is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them.” Hebrews 6:10 We all need encouragement. Early in my ministry I picked up a book from a sale table entitled “Encourage Me!” by Chuck Swindoll. Perhaps it set the tone for my Christian walk more than any other single volume. Since then, the name Chuck Swindoll has become synonymous with encouragement. Here are just a few bits of his wisdom that might help you: “Vision is the ability to see God’s presence,...