Reconstructing Christianity

Deconstructing Christianity. It seems to be all the rage these days, outspoken individuals raised in the church who are sharing their stories. Telling of how they have left the faith. Discussing the disappointments of unanswered prayers. Sharing how they have been disillusioned by their upbringing. I listen intently, inquisitively. Many of these individuals have faced […]

Keeping the Faith

This last week, I visited with a lady who marveled that I had kept the faith in the midst of the storms of this life. This precious lady is struggling through some of the same trials I’ve faced, those of mental and emotional abuse, divorce, and false accusations. It has been a struggle to keep […]

When Life Needs to Change

I’ve been doing a lot of thinking lately. And a lot of reading. My goal this year has been to experience change in several areas of life, areas including spiritual, physical, and mental health. At the beginning of the year, I chose several activities I wanted to implement in an effort to improve my life. […]

Reaping the Rewards

It’s a thankless job. When is the last time you read Proverbs 31? Let’s take a few minutes to read it: A wife of noble character who can find?     She is worth far more than rubies. Her husband has full confidence in her     and lacks nothing of value. She brings him good, not harm,     all […]

A Mama’s Heart

In the morning, Lord, you hear my voice;     in the morning I lay my requests before you     and wait expectantly. Psalm 5:3 I woke up Sunday morning with these words running through my mind. As I began to pray for my children that morning, I couldn’t shake the scripture. I’m laying my requests at your feet […]

Survivor

April 19, 1995, stands as a day of infamy in the United States and in Oklahoma. On that fateful day, a truck was parked in front of the Murrah Federal Building. It was filled with explosives, and the detonation rocked the entire city of Oklahoma City. As the smoke cleared, the Murrah building was destroyed. […]

Insecurity: Friend or Foe?

I love the Bible! Every year, I read through the entire Bible starting in January. Without fail, I learn something new. The Holy Spirit illuminates scripture in new ways, and I see things from a different angle. That’s how we know the Word of God is living and active (Hebrews 4:12)! As I read through […]

The Theology of Forgiveness

Someone asked me this week how I ended up remarried after divorce in light of biblical teachings. My response started with Deuteronomy 24 where Moses specifically allowed divorce so that women could remarry. I went on to Malachi 2 where God talks about the cruelty of men to their wives which ultimately leads to divorce, another time […]

Reflecting on God’s Faithfulness

Seven years ago. I have relived that day over and over, but for some reason this year it is really taking an emotional toll on me. Last night as I drove home from dinner with my daughter, I began to reflect on that day. I found myself in tears–both good and bad. Seven years ago […]

Do You Know Jesus?

This last week, I have been broken-hearted to see a number of videos of individuals who grew up in the church that are now turning away. They boldly proclaim why they have left the toxic church culture, explaining how they are now enlightened. The church is toxic. The church is abusive. The church keeps people […]