Faith or Family

Hebrews 11:8-10 More than fifty years ago, my parents were not convinced that Cynthia was the best mate for me. They were sincere, but on that matter, they were wrong. Had I listened to them, I would not have married the woman I should have married. We recently celebrated our fiftieth wedding anniversary. Now, if […]

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The Three Most Powerful Words

Almost always, the answer was the same. “How did your game go?” I’d ask. “Good,” he would reply. “How did you do?” . . . “Good.” The response wasn’t a curt put-off, nor was it a rote reaction. It was offered honestly, and almost always with enthusiasm. . . . It didn’t matter if the […]

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The Reckless Phony

LORD, who may abide in Your tent? Who may dwell on Your holy hill? He who walks with integrity, and works righteousness, And speaks truth in his heart. (Psalm 15:1-2) Read 1 Kings 11:1-6. Mark Twain said, “Everyone is a moon and has a dark side which he never shows anybody.”1 Phony living could happen […]

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Challenges of Siblings

Most Commonly Reported Challenges of Siblings of Special-Needs Children Many siblings struggle when their brother or sister carries a disability. Challenges arise unexpectedly. Parents are often unsure how to provide help and guidance. The first step to helping the siblings of special-needs children involves knowing where to look for the most common challenges. Here are […]

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Things My Mother Taught Me

This month is dedicated to celebrating women. I realize not everyone who reads this is a woman, but you probably have at least one woman in your life—a mother, your spouse or girlfriend, or a daughter. But whether or not you’re a woman, this fun little piece made me chuckle, and I thought you would […]

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What Do You Look For?

Noise can distract us from the voice of the Spirit, but God often speaks in the silence. In a rare moment recently, my house was quiet. So I chose to sit and carefully observe the room I was in, and a number of emotions flooded my soul. My daughter’s art supplies rested by her canvas […]

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Holding on Loosely

Shortly before her death, Corrie ten Boom attended our church. Following the service I met briefly with her, anxious to express my wife’s and my love and respect for her faithful example. She inquired about my family . . . how many children, their ages—that sort of thing. She detected my deep love for each […]

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Letting Go, Looking Up

I’ve been reflecting lately on my children’s growing-up years. How I longed to be the “perfect” mother, something I eventually learned was an illusion. I tried to keep my children from harm, but they have been hurt. I hoped they would enjoy life, but they have suffered. I wanted to kiss their “boo-boos” away, watch […]

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