Life in Exile

Does the faith or unbelief of a person affect others? Absolutely. Proverbs 11 is clear on the impact of righteousness versus wickedness.

I'm sharing a recipe I've now used for 40 years and served to children and friends in every country where we served. Nothing better than a chocolate chip oatmeal cookie.

If you ever wanted to count your blessings in Christ, turn to Proverbs 10 and bask in the wonders of wisdom.

What is it with Christians needing to be joyful in trials? James tells us. It's all about growing our spiritual muscle strength.

Our words matter. They can build up or tear down. What are you doing to tame your tongue?

For Americans serving overseas, love of country can be a loaded proposition. We'll examine what patriotism means for missionaries.

Will memory of you be a blessing or something people want to forget. Ponder with me the words of Psalm 10:7.

Let's look at some lessons we can learn from the book of Judges and Israel's struggles in the Promised Land. Evil may be persistent, but it does not win.

What do we call the opposite of wisdom? Folly. How do we spot her? Proverbs 9 has a description.

Changes in missions can often leave us with regret. Here are some practical steps to move past regret and experience blessings in life and service.

Ponder the final few verses of Proverbs 8 and be thankful for the blessings of finding the wisdom that is Christ Jesus.

We miss so much and remain unprepared for the trials and attacks of life if we refuse to dive deep into God's Word.

The more we learn about wisdom in Proverbs, the more we realize that we can substitute the name of Jesus, because Jesus is wisdom and embodies wisdom.

What do we do when we must give us possessions and homes to move and serve in other locations? We offer our loss to the Lord.

The way of wisdom lies in sharp contrast to that of temptation. We find several elements of wisdom made clear in the eighth chapter of Proverbs.

In an influencer culture, Christians have long been given a special stewardship from God: our lives. How will we use our influence for the glory of God?

God makes it clear in Proverbs 7 the ways of temptation. Being aware helps us avoid its trap and the death it brings.

What do we do when a fellow Christian breaks our trust and causes damage to our relationship? Is there a way forward that honors God?

The parents' role of godly teaching in the life of a child cannot be overstated. It is the light that guides them safely forward in life.

Fragmented stories lead us to forget that we are part of a much larger, more important Grand Narrative. We are all part of the story: God's Story of Redemption and the Returning King.

Knowing what God hates helps us to live by what He loves. Proverbs helps us to see the difference.

When is the last time you asked a missionary how you can pray for them? It's a question worth asking as you love and support them in Kingdom service.

Solomon warns us in Proverbs to beware of those who come to us with crooked speech and distracting body actions. They're up to no good.

A recent critique of the work of C.S. Lewis leads to this post on the certainty of Christ in view of the fallibility of man.

Solomon calls us to look to the ant for some important life lessons.

Can we trust God in our hurt? Is PTSD real for those in ministry? Trauma and spiritual warfare go hand-in-hand and leave scars, but they can also build our faith.

The marriage relationship is a sacred and precious thing; given to us for our joy and delight. Stay faithful and be true to your spouse.

If Zacchaeus could overcome all that hindered him from seeking Jesus, then you can too. In the end, it's just a willingness of heart.

Solomon warns us of the bitter consequences of sin. Avoid the allure of evil by staying far away.

Do churches have an expectation of return on investment in supporting missionaries? Should they? How do we speak into this issue as we share?

To live lives pleasing to God, we must guard our hearts with all vigilance. What does that look like? Proverbs gives us some practical help.

Is the end near? How do we live? Like a panicked Chicken Little or a person confident in the hope of Christ? Peter has some words to guide us.

In Proverbs 4, Solomon shares words of wisdom, given to him by his father, David. In them we see the need for and benefits of wisdom and insight.

How do you handle feelings of inferiority as a woman in Christian service? Are you really less than your husband in the eyes of the Lord?

There are some dos in walking with wisdom, but there are also some actions we want to avoid. Both are important in walking with our confidence firmly in the Lord.

There are many voices, each with their own opinions, on current events in our world. Who do we listen to? How do pray? Where is the Lord in the midst of war?

By keeping our eyes on God's wisdom and discretion, we can walk with confidence and rest in peace. As we do, the world takes notice.

Explaining our life and work on the field can be difficult and intimidating when some supporters are looking at their return on investment.

Proverbs reveals how wisdom is present at Creation, providing order and purpose to every area of the universe. This same wisdom is given us by God.

What do you do when political differences harden your stance against fellow believers and make you question your faith? God can restore a crushed faith.

What are the traits and actions of the person who loves God and follows Him? We can find some answers in Proverbs 3.

Here are some questions to ask when you get discouraged about discipleship efforts in missionary service.

Proverbs 3:1-6 provides three sets of actions to guide our lives, as we acknowledge His steadfast love and faithfulness.

A recent winter storm made me reflect on whether we prepare out of wisdom or fear. Where do we focus when storms come, on the storm or on the Lord?

Proverbs 2 reveals a special shield over our lives. It is not a what but a who. God is our shield of righteousness. He is our source of protection.

Even missionaries can feel like imposters when sharing with churches and other groups about work on the field. It's okay to be real.

The benefits of listening to God's Wisdom are wonderful, but the consequences are devastating. Do not reject God and His Wisdom.

I've let confession and repentance slide over the years, as I've lived as a "good" Christian woman. God has reminded me that there are no "respectable" sins.

What does it benefit us to turn from sin and live by the wisdom of God? Proverbs tells us that it leads to a Spirit-filled and dread-free life. What could be better?

How do I find the balance between what people think I'm doing in mission service and what I know to be the reality? How do I overcome feelings of unworthiness?

As noisy as this world may seem, there is a voice that rises above it all: The voice of Wisdom. The question for us is: Are we listening?