When I think of charm and beauty, I think of a Beauty Pageant. Not many people know this, but I was in a Miss Teen Pageant when I was in High School.  I also took modeling classes.  They taught us poise, charm, beauty with a purpose, emphasizing grace, leadership and making a difference.  I used to think that beauty was an outward thing, but as I got older, I learned that beauty is inward.  Your c...

More often than not, I would rather sit and listen to my dad talk—about his time as a missionary, his childhood, or the many people he’s met. He is a man full of wisdom, and God has used him in so many amazing ways. I’m always wanting to see him and hear from him. But just like in the story of Mary and Martha, life still has to be lived. I have responsibilities. I have a job. I don’t get to spend ...

Can you even imagine? I can't. I think I would be speechless just like Mary was at first, but then when she hears what the angel says she doesn't doubt, not for one second. “For the word of God will never fail.”  Mary responded, “I am the Lord’s servant. May everything you have said about me come true.” And then the angel left her. Luke 1:37-38 NLTBut don't miss the words of Gabriel " the word of ...

In just three short verses, we see through the prophetess Anna, a model of perseverance, devotion in prayer, thankfulness and joyful boldness.  Widowed after only seven years of marriage, Anna spent the rest of her life dedicated entirely to God, in the temple day and night, worshipping, fasting & praying.The world might have seen Anna as an insignificant elderly widow, but God saw a woman whose f...

We all have gifts. I believe my gift has always been serving. I’ve always had a passion for caring for other people—whether it is serving for the 614 service, watching kids, setting up chairs, or just bringing someone a coffee when they are having a bad day. This verse tells us exactly how we should be using our gifts. I'm sure many people have heard of the importance of having a “village.” But to...