Introduction: Have you ever wondered if your prayers make a difference? In Acts 10:4, we encounter an incredible moment when an angel tells Cornelius, a Roman centurion, that his “prayers and gifts to the poor have come up as a memorial offering before God.” What an amazing thought—that our sincere prayers and acts of kindness…
Do you ever feel like the start of a new year brings more pressure than excitement? Everywhere you look, there are reminders to set goals, improve yourself, and accomplish more. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed and wonder if you’ll ever measure up. But as followers of Christ, our focus isn’t meant to be on what…
She gave this name to the Lord who spoke to her: “You are the God who sees me,” for she said, “I have now seen the One who sees me.” (Genesis 16:13, NIV) In the wilderness, Hagar encountered God in a way that forever changed her. She gave Him a name: El Roi, the God…
As we welcome the new year, there’s a unique sense of possibility and renewal in the air. For many of us, it’s a time to pause, reflect, and set intentions. But as believers, our starting point is different. Instead of simply asking what we want to accomplish, we should be asking, What is God calling…
Every December, I find myself both enchanted and a little overwhelmed by the Christmas season. Between decorating the tree, finding the perfect gifts, and trying to squeeze in every tradition, it’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of the season. But every so often, something stops me—a quiet moment in the…
The small town of Gracewood buzzed with holiday cheer as snow blanketed the streets and lights twinkled in every window. But for eight-year-old Annie, Christmas felt as cold as the winter air outside. This would be her first Christmas without her mom. The stockings hung on the mantle told the story of her family’s loss.…
