“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble,” Psalms‬ ‭46‬:‭1‬, NIV‬‬. The word strength has multiple meanings: To be physically strong. The ability to resist being moved or broken by a force. The quality that allows someone to deal with problems in a determined and effective way. In Psalm 46, the Israelites find themselves in another battle, yet on the losing side. God reminded them that He is their strength. They needed to trust God, who also would shel

First Step “My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of my hand,” John 10:27-28, NIV. I find the challenge in most things is the first step. Whether it’s starting a book report, spring cleaning, or doing one’s quiet time, the first step is the most difficult for me. Do I obey or justify? Do I sit and ponder or move into action? These are my distractions and my temptations.

“Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, ‘Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you,’” Hebrews‬ ‭13‬:‭5‬, NIV‬‬. “Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded,” James‬ ‭4‬:‭8‬, ESV‬‬. “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit,” Psalms‬ ‭34‬:‭18‬, ‭NIV‬‬. Mother’s Day 2026, it’s been six months