Roy and I have always lived in a climate where we could celebrate the seasons, but never so much as our current location near Boone, North Carolina. When we moved here a little over three years ago, we were told that this beautiful little mountain town, tucked into the heart of Appalachia, was a tourist attraction in every season. But …
A Father’s Love by Jessica Baker
I did not grow up in a Christian home. Love was just a word. Love was telling your only child that she was not good enough. Fat. Worthless. Would never amount to anything. A mistake. In the way. I could go and on. There was never anything good about love in my childhood. My father would threaten anyone who knocked …
Our Story by Della Young
After hearing Lysa Terkeurst speak at a recent Catalyst Event, I was impressed with all that she had to say. I began to ponder some of her comments. The one that kept playing over and over in my head was “We’ve got to let God’s words be THE WORDS of our story.” How often is “Our Story” based on the main …
Trusting Silence by Nichole Ridner
I sat on the stool while she once again picked me apart. I had been working at my new job for only a month, and she took every opportunity to point out everything she felt I did wrong. This woman had made my first day horrible, and each time I worked with her was like scratching at a raw wound. …
Hope and Perseverance by Linda McFarland
I have never really given much thought about the word of the year concept. However, in the last two years I have become aware of two words that have become relevant to the events that have transpired in my life. Those two words are hope and perseverance. Rejoice in hope, persevering in tribulation, devoted to prayer. Romans 12:12 (NASB) I …
Precious Forgiveness by Nichole Ridner
As my 11-year-old son walked out of the house at the end of January in shorts, I commented that he could wear what he wanted but my suggestion that he wear pants would help him avoid his feelings getting hurt by comments from others. His response left me speechless, ashamed and heartbroken. “Mom, the only person who ever says anything …
