BLOG––Encouraged by Faith

A few weeks ago, right after very difficult cancer surgery, I had a dream that has not faded and that has become more and more meaningful as the treatments continue. In a fever-sick dream, I was walking to the doctor’s office and I didn’t want to go. I was very weak and sick. It was...

How to pray for self, for others, for an end, for God’s will, for peace and acceptance of God’s purpose in suffering and trouble, acknowledging that his wrath is just, but his mercy is sure and his promises do not fail. At this very moment, plagues almost biblical in their magnitude...

This week begins the liturgical season of Lent. It is a contemplative time of waiting for Easter, the glorious Sunday of Jesus’ resurrection. Although our group does not observe strict Lenten practices, there are benefits to preparing our minds and hearts toward God at this time. It can be...

Whose word defines me? Words impact our lives in a relentless barrage. I must admit I let this encroachment happen. From early in the morning until late at night, there is hardly a moment of peace. Even when no one else is speaking, my own words will demand my attention. Many years ago, the...

I watched comedian Josh Johnson on YouTube the other day. He said, “As a black guy from the South, I don’t think you’re racist until you attend your second Klan meeting.” He told a story about a friend who got invited to a backyard barbecue, like you do in the South. They...

It’s a new decade.  It’s hard to believe.  It seemed so far away a few years ago. The New Year is prime time to make resolutions.  Most are the same year after year.  Lose weight, get in shape, be more organized, spend less and save more, get out of debt. The...

We frequently hear about the dangers of toxic people. The internet seems full of warnings, reassuring us our happiness is more important and we do not need such people in our lives. If we believe the memes featuring people gazing peacefully from mountain peaks, we do not need that kind of...

The story of Job begins with a scene in God's courtroom. God talks to a prosecutor who has accused Job of duplicitous falsehood. "Job doesn't actually love you," the prosecutor says to God. "He just knows better than to bite the hand that feeds." By accusing Job as God’s faithful servant...

Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I say, rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. (Philippians 4:4-5) Someone dear once told me that I would feel better if I smiled. I did, and she said, “No, that’s a sneer. Smile like you mean it.” I tried that and it...

“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.” (Proverbs 9:10) I mean to trust God in all things, and yet I fear many things. How can this be? What do I fear that is beyond God’s control? Is there really anything that is...