Good soil, good heart

Giving as we have been given

From the everseeking journal, "The un-intimidating Proverbs 31 Woman" [issue no 32]. As we talk through this chapter, we see the different things the woman does: she works, she takes care, she bears fruit (profits), she clothes, she looks to the future, she is kind and wise... But none of these things would happen if she weren't first given these things by God. He nurtures and cherishes us in all these things so we can in turn give as we have been given and not of ourselves.

But I will be with you

From the everseeking journal, "As warriors of God" -- day 02 + 20. As we talk through the passage of Ephesians 6, where we're told how we stand firm in the armor of God, there's something very specific that allows us to do so: the presence of God. His power gives us the strength to stand (seen by the example of Gideon in Judges 6 and the reminder of who it is that stands with us in Revelation 19)!

Do not abandon the love you had at first

From everseeking journal, "To the churches in Revelation" - day 05-06. These are words from Jesus to the church at the time in Ephesus. He has some beautiful encouragement to give them, but he also shares something that is easy to forget... even still for us today. What an incredible reminder that God has preserved for us to encourage us, his church, to stay faithful in him...

Discerning in unfair moments

From everseeking journal, "Women of God" - day 02. There are moments that will come out of nowhere and we as followers of God are expected to respond to it as God would. Even if it's an unfair situation in which frustrating seems warranted. The study of how Abigail handled a situation just like that in 1 Samuel 25 gives us hope -- not only how we can live for God, but how God gives us the discernment in any moment... even unfair ones.

"But as for me..." [Psalm 73]

From everseeking journal, "Joyful endings in Psalms" - day 15. When those who are against God always seem to have it good, it can get discouraging. But as for us, even though we stumble, if we stay near to God and in his sacred presence, it changes everything for us -- including our perspective on what it means it means to have what is good in life.