Four-Eight That

  Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. –Philippians 4:8 Years ago, one of my children struggled with negative self-talk. I figured this out because he began acting out, saying hurtful things […]

Suddenly Single – How You Can Survive the “Economic Downturn

When I was Suddenly Single, it was like a grenade had gone off. You’re disoriented, with good reason. And whether you realize it or not, you’re going through some huge, emotional upheaval. And that’s why I’m offering these tips on what to do about your finances when you’re trying to hold on. Try these for […]

Some Things About Growing Old Together…

THE ROMANTIC When people (particularly young people) are getting married, they post things on social media like… “I can’t wait to spend the rest of my life with you.” “You will always be my forever friend.” “I look forward to growing old with you.” And I’ll admit that in weddings I officiate, I often challenge […]

Stirred Up

  For I am the LORD your God who stirs up the sea so that its waves roar— his name is the LORD of Armies.  I have put my words in your mouth, and covered you in the shadow of my hand, in order to plant the heavens, to found the earth, and to say to Zion, “You are my people.” […]

How to Love Two Spouses

No, this post is not about polygamy or sister wives. It’s just that sometimes it can feel like you’re married to two spouses at the same time; the one you fell in love with, and the one you didn’t. Let me explain by using a story from the ancient book of Genesis… A STORY Starting […]

Spiritual Burnout – Signs and What Men Can Do About It

So let me get real with you about spiritual burnout. That’s where you don’t feel like picking up the Bible. Sermons are ok but not knocking your socks off like they once did. You feel lethargic toward spiritual things – even (and especially) ministry. You’re serving but have lost your joy. When this happens, here […]

The Season of the Rose

  In the summer of 2016, my husband and I moved into a sweet, 1950s ranch-style home in the heart of Martinez. This quarter of an acre corner lot came with the whole package – wood paneling, a bathroom the size of a refrigerator (I’m not joking), and creaky wooden floors. The yard was the real […]

Signs of Life

I was talking to a friend who is somewhat particular about his yard, and he told me there are two parts of his yard that are his favorite spots. I thought to myself, “These must be particularly lush and manicured parts of his yard to be his favorite. But actually, his two favorite spots in […]

Right Where You’re Supposed To Be

The theme of CHANGE has been brought up repeatedly this last year and God has been quietly speaking to me—reminding me of so many moments, not just this year, but over my life— how He has been faithful. Specifically this week he brought to mind some of the change I walked through almost a decade […]