.....reflection

Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her Proverbs 31:28

A group of second grade school children was asked the following question -- Why did God make mothers? Here are a few of the answers they gave:

• She's the only one who knows where the scotch tape is.
• Mostly to clean the house.
• To help us out of there when we were getting born.

Children have a way of answering questions with surprisingly deep wisdom. These second graders saw their mothers as the ultimate problem-solvers, caretakers, and life-givers. And they were absolutely right!

Mothers play a unique and God-given role in our lives. They are often the ones who "know where the scotch tape is"— not just literally, but figuratively as well. They hold things together and fix what’s broken. They’re the ones who patch up scraped knees, broken hearts, and bad days.

They "clean the house," not just by vacuuming floors, but by creating a space of warmth, love, and belonging. Their presence turns a home into a place where we feel safe and cared for.

And of course, they "help us out of there when we were getting born." From the very beginning, mothers sacrifice for their children, pouring out love, patience, and care from the moment life begins, often without thanks or recognition.

God designed mothers to reflect his own nurturing and unconditional love. In Isaiah 66:13 he says, “As a mother comforts her child, so will I comfort you.” A mother’s love gives us a glimpse of how deeply God cares for us.

So, if you’re a mother, know this: What you do matters. The love you give, the encouragement you offer, the sacrifices you make — it all makes a difference in ways bigger than you may realize. And if your mother in still in your life, take a moment to appreciate her, encourage her, and remind her that she is deeply loved.

- alan smith

Father, thank you for the gift of mothers and for the love and care they provide. Help me to appreciate and honor them. May I also reflect your love in my own life. In Jesus’ name, amen.

.....vision

Open my eyes that I may see wonderful things in your law Psalm 119:18

A father took his 5-year-old son to the optometrist to pick up his new glasses. The glasses were prescribed "to help him read and be able to see the computer better". The little boy was excited, expecting that these new lenses would somehow transform his world.

When they got back home, he eagerly sat down at the computer to play a game. But after a few minutes, he called out to his father with concern in his voice, “Dad, something’s wrong with these glasses.”

"What’s wrong?" he asked. The little boy said, “I still can’t read.”

This little boy didn’t understand that while the glasses could sharpen his vision, they couldn’t do the learning for him. Reading still requires time, practice, and patience.

In the same way, many of us expect instant spiritual clarity when we seek God. We assume that simply attending church, reading a few Bible verses, or listening to a sermon will immediately give us wisdom and understanding. But growing in faith — just like learning to read — requires more than just having the right "tools." It takes effort, study, and a willingness to let God teach us over time.

Indeed, if you call out for insight and cry aloud for understanding, and if you look for it as for silver and search for it as for hidden treasure, then you will understand the fear of the Lord and find the knowledge of God Proverbs 2:3-5

Spiritual growth doesn’t happen overnight. It’s a lifelong journey of learning, trusting, and allowing God to reveal his truths to us little by little. Just as a child needs to practice reading, we need to regularly seek God in prayer, study his Word, and allow the Holy Spirit to guide us. Only then will we truly begin to see clearly.

Today, ask God to open your eyes so that you may see the wonderful things in his law. Don't be discouraged if you don't understand everything right away. Keep seeking, keep learning, and trust that in time, he will give you the clarity and understanding you desire.

Lord, open my eyes to see the wonderful truths in your Word. Give me a heart that seeks you daily and guide me as I grow in wisdom and faith. I trust that, in time, you will help me see clearly. In Jesus’ name, amen.

.....gift

They first gave themselves to the Lord, and then to us by the will of God 2 Corinthians 8:5

We’ve all been there — receiving a gift that leaves us at a loss for words. Maybe it’s an ugly sweater or a gadget so obscure you can’t even figure out how to use it. In those moments, you scramble for something polite to say. Fortunately, someone has come up with "Things to Say About a Gift You Don't Like":

Hey! Now there's a gift!
What a shame! If I hadn't recently shot up 4 sizes, this would've fit.
I hope this never catches fire! It is fire season though. There are lots of unexplained fires.
If the dog buries it, I'll be furious!
I love it -- but I fear the jealousy it will inspire.
How unfortunate! I got this the year I vowed to give all my gifts to charity.

Whatever you say, you know full well that a return trip to the store is in your future!

There's a beautiful story in 2 Corinthians 8 about a gift that the churches of Macedonia gave to Paul to help needy Christians in Jerusalem. It was a gift that Paul was reluctant to receive. Not because there was anything wrong with it. Quite the opposite -- it was a generous gift. Perhaps too generous. The Christians who gave it weren’t wealthy, so the gift seemed excessive.

“I can testify that they gave not only what they could afford, but far more. And they did it of their own free will. They begged us again and again for the privilege of sharing in the gift for the believers in Jerusalem. They even did more than we had hoped, for their first action was to give themselves to the Lord and to us, just as God wanted them to do.” 2 Corinthians 8:3-5

True generosity isn’t just about giving money or resources; it starts with surrendering ourselves fully to God. The Corinthians didn't just open their wallets — they opened their hearts. Their generosity was an outpouring of a deeper spiritual commitment. They recognized that everything they had belonged to God, and because they had first surrendered their lives to him, their giving became an extension of their faith rather than just an act of obligation.

The best gift you can ever give — one that will never need to be exchanged — is the gift of yourself to God. When you surrender your heart, your time, and your life to him, you are offering something precious. Unlike that ugly sweater or a gadget that gathers dust, your wholehearted devotion is exactly what God wants.

- alan smith

Lord, help me to give myself fully to you, just as the Macedonian Christians did. Teach me to be generous with my time, my resources, and my heart, knowing that when I give to you, it is always the perfect gift. In Jesus’ name, amen.

.....exaggeration

The Lord detests lying lips, but he delights in people who are trustworthy Proverbs 12:22

Two fishermen met on vacation and, as fishermen are prone to do, they started swapping stories. One of them bragged about an epic battle with a 300-pound salmon. The other, not to be outdone, told about the time he reeled in an old lantern that had been sitting at the bottom of a lake since 1912 — and it was still glowing!

The first fisherman thought for a moment, then said, "Tell you what — I'll take 200 pounds off my fish if you put out the light in your lantern."

We’ve all been there. Maybe not with fish tales, but whenever we share our accomplishments (or our hardships), we have a tendency to stretch the truth to impress others or to make our stories more exciting. But Solomon reminds us that God values honesty and integrity.

We live in a world where we feel like we have to make ourselves look good — on social media, at work, even in casual conversations. But Jesus calls us to a different way of living: one where our words match the truth. Because every lie, no matter how small, distorts the truth, and whenever we distort the truth, we take a step away from God’s character.

In Matthew 5:37, Jesus said, “Let your ‘Yes’ be ‘Yes,’ and your ‘No,’ ‘No.’” In other words, say what you mean, mean what you say, and don’t twist reality for your own benefit.

The truth is, you don’t need to exaggerate your story for God to use it. When we’re honest about our struggles, our blessings, and even our small victories, we allow God’s light — not our own exaggerations — to shine through us.

- alan smith

Lord, forgive me for the times I’ve “bent the truth” to impress others or to make myself seem better than I am. Let my words be truthful and my heart be sincere, so that I may reflect your character in all that I say and do. In Jesus' name, amen.

.....grumbling

Do everything without grumbling or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation Philippians 2:14-15

I heard about a 4-year-old girl who came to the table one evening in a disgruntled mood. She complained loudly about every dish on the table. Hoping to change the mood, her mother suggested that she give the blessing. After a sullen pause, she prayed, "OK, God, I forgive you for this food."

Most of us have had a moment like that little girl. Maybe it wasn’t about food, but we’ve all faced situations where we wanted to look up at the heavens and say, “Really, God? This is what you’re giving me?”

Maybe it’s a tough situation at work, an unexpected bill, or just another long Monday. Like that little girl, we may not feel grateful, but we go through the motions, muttering a half-hearted “thanks” while secretly thinking we deserved something better.

The apostle Paul reminds us in Philippians 2:14 that we should “do everything without grumbling.” That doesn’t mean we have to pretend that everything is perfect, but it does challenge us to check our attitude. Gratitude isn’t about liking everything that happens — it’s about trusting that God is still working for our good, even when things don’t look the way we would like for them to.

Instead of grumbling, what if we shifted our perspective? What if, instead of seeing what’s “wrong,” we looked for what’s right? Maybe the meal isn’t our favorite, but we’re blessed to have food at all. Maybe the job is stressful, but it’s still providing for our needs. Gratitude doesn’t come naturally, but it’s a habit worth developing.

Lord, forgive me when I grumble instead of being grateful. Help me to see the blessings in my life, even when things don’t go my way. Give me a heart that trusts you in all things, knowing that you are always providing for me. Thank you for your goodness, even when I don’t always recognize it. In Jesus’ name, amen. 

.....wisdom

Getting wisdom is the wisest thing you can do! And whatever else you do, develop good judgment Proverbs 3:7

Bored during a long flight, a Harvard professor leaned over and woke the sleeping man next to him to ask if he would like to play a game. "I'll ask you a question and if you don't know the answer, you pay me $5. Then you ask me a question, and if I don't know the answer, I'll pay you $50."

When the man agreed to play, the professor asked, "What's the distance from the earth to the moon?" The man didn’t know so he handed over $5. Then it was the man’s turn. He asked, "What goes up a hill with three legs and comes down with four?" The professor spent an hour pondering but had no answer. Frustrated, he finally gave up and paid $50. "Okay, what’s the answer?”

The man said, "I don't know," handed over $5 and went back to sleep.

There’s a big difference between knowledge and wisdom. Knowledge is about information, but wisdom is about applying our understanding in a way that leads to good outcomes. The professor had extensive knowledge, but his seatmate had wisdom – he knew how to best handle the situation.

“Getting wisdom is the wisest thing you can do! And whatever else you do, develop good judgment.” Proverbs 3:7 Knowledge fills our minds with facts, but wisdom teaches us how to use those facts properly. A person can be highly educated yet still make foolish decisions, while someone else may have little formal schooling but walk in wisdom because they seek God’s guidance.

True wisdom begins with the fear of the Lord. It’s not about outsmarting others but about living rightly before God. James 1:5 encourages us, “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him.” When we seek God’s wisdom, he provides discernment that is far more important than mere head knowledge.

So, the next time you're faced with a decision, remember this: knowledge can tell you what’s possible, but wisdom will show you what’s best. Ask God for the wisdom to make good choices, and he will give it to you.

- alan smith

Lord, help me not to rely on my own understanding alone. Help me to seek your wisdom in all things so that I can make decisions that will honor you. In Jesus’ name, amen.

.....work

Let us not grow weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up Galatians 6:9

A newspaper writer, after working for 17 long years, was finally granted two months leave, during which time he would be fully paid. However, he turned down his boss' offer. The boss asked, "Why would you turn down such a generous offer?" The newspaper writer said there were two reasons. "The first is that I thought my taking such a long leave might affect the newspaper's circulation."

The boss asked him what the other reason was. He said, "The other reason is that I thought my taking such a long leave might NOT affect the newspaper's circulation."

Have you ever felt like that? You put years of effort into something — maybe a job, a ministry, raising a family — but deep down, you wonder, “If I stopped, would it even make a difference? Would anybody even notice?”

It’s easy for us to value our worth by what we have accomplished. And so, we want people to recognize our hard work. If they do, we feel valuable. If they don’t, we start questioning whether we’re making any impact at all.

If that describes you, take heart and know that your work does matter. Galatians 6:9 reminds us that even when we don’t see the results right away, our efforts are never wasted. God sees the hard work, the sacrifices, and the faithfulness — even in the small things. And he has promised us that in the right time, there will be a harvest.

So, caring for loved ones, working behind the scenes, or simply showing up every day, know this -- You are making a difference. Even if the world doesn’t always acknowledge it, God does. 

Keep going, because whatever you do, as long as it is done for God, is never in vain.

Lord, thank you for seeing me, even when I feel unnoticed. Help me to remember that my work — whether big or small — matters because I’m doing it for you. Teach me to work with joy and purpose, knowing that my value isn’t in my achievements, but in your love for me. In Jesus’ name, amen.

....more

And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus Philippians 4:19

Carl was driving home when he saw a group of young children selling Kool-Aid on a corner in his neighborhood. They had posted the typical hand scrawled sign over their stand: "Kool-Aid, 10 cents." Intrigued, Carl pulled over to the curb.

A young boy approached and asked if he would like strawberry or grape Kool-Aid. Carl placed his order and handed the boy a quarter. After much deliberation, the children determined he had some change coming and rifled through the cigar box until they came up with the correct amount. The boy returned with the change, then stood by the side of the car. He asked if Carl was finished drinking. "Just about," said Carl. "Why?"

"That's the only cup we have, "answered the boy, "and we need it to stay in business."

This story is both funny and heartwarming. These kids had the drive to start a business, and their willingness to serve was there, but their resources were limited.

Have you ever felt like that? Maybe you’re trying to pour into others — your family, your job, your church — but you feel like you’re working with just “one cup.” Your energy runs low, your patience wears thin, maybe even your faith is lacking, and you wonder how you’re supposed to keep going when you feel like you’re running on empty.

The good news is that God isn’t limited by our resources. Philippians 4:19 reminds us that he meets all our needs — not just some of them, but all of them — according to his riches, not ours. When we rely on our own strength, we will eventually run dry, but when we let God refill us, we can keep serving, loving, and giving without fear of running out of “cups.” God provides more than enough, whether it’s strength, wisdom, patience, or even physical resources.

So, if you feel like you’re running on just one cup today, take some time to ask God to refill you. God has an unlimited supply, and it’s more than enough to keep you going. Just ask, and trust that God will provide exactly what you need.

- alan smith

Lord, sometimes I feel like I don’t have enough to give — whether it’s time, energy, or even patience, but I know you are my source. Help me to trust you to provide for my needs so I can continue to serve others with joy and generosity. In Jesus’ name, amen.

.....heaven

The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands. Psalm 19:1

A little girl was camping with her dad one evening and got to see a sight city-folk rarely get to witness. As the sky got pitch black, the stars were absolutely brilliant. The little girl looked up and said, "Daddy, if the bottom side of heaven looks this beautiful, what must the other side look like!"

Have you ever looked up at the night sky and felt overwhelmed by its beauty? There’s something breathtaking about a sky untouched by city lights. It’s a sight that stirs the soul, reminding us of how vast and magnificent God truly is.

But the little girl was right. If this world — this temporary, broken place — can still hold such beauty, imagine what awaits us in eternity! Our greatest moments of awe here on this earth are just the faintest glimpses of the glory to come.

When we marvel at a sunset, stand in awe of a mountain range, or feel the vastness of the ocean, we’re seeing evidences of the Creator’s handiwork. And yet, even the most stunning landscapes of earth pale in comparison to the beauty of heaven. Revelation 21:23 tells us that heaven doesn’t even need the sun or moon, because the glory of God himself gives it light.

But here’s the most amazing part: Heaven’s beauty isn’t just about golden streets or crystal-clear rivers. The greatest wonder of all is that we will be in the very presence of God. No more pain. No more sorrow. No more distance between us and our Savior. Just pure, unending joy in the fullness of his love.

So, the next time you look up at a starry night, take a moment to remember: If this is what the bottom side of heaven looks like, imagine what’s waiting on the other side!

- alan smith

Lord, your creation is breathtaking, and it fills my heart with wonder. Thank you for giving us glimpses of your glory in this world. I long for the day when I will see you face to face. Until then, let me shine your light here on this earth. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

.....right

Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves Philippians 2:3

A husband and wife got into a petty argument. As was their nature, neither of them would admit the possibility that they might be in error. The wife finally said, "Look. I'll tell you what. I'll admit I was wrong if you’ll admit I was right." The husband said, "Fine." She took a deep breath, looked him in the eye and said, "I was wrong.” He grinned and replied, "You're right."

We’ve all been there — those little disagreements that somehow feel much bigger than they ought to. Maybe it’s about what to have for dinner, which way to fold the laundry, or who left the lights on. At the time, it feels important to prove our point, but in the grand scheme of things, is being “right” really the goal?

This story illustrates something many of us struggle with -- admitting when we’re wrong. Even when we do, there’s a part of us that still wants to “win” in some way. But Scripture calls us to something greater — humility. Philippians 2:3 reminds us to value others above ourselves, putting love before pride.

Jesus himself is the ultimate example of this kind of humility. Though he had every right to claim superiority, he chose to serve rather than be served. If Jesus, the Son of God, could lay aside his rights for the sake of love, surely we can, too. When we are willing to listen, admit fault, or let go of our need to "win," we reflect the heart of Christ.

So, the next time you find yourself in a disagreement, pause and ask yourself: What matters more — being right or being Christlike? Is proving my point more important than preserving peace? Sometimes the greatest victory isn’t found in winning the argument but in choosing to show grace.

- alan smith

Lord, help me to walk in humility, seeking peace rather than always being “right.” Give me a heart that values others above myself, and reflects your grace in every conversation. In Jesus’ name, amen.

.....unchanging

See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are! 1 John 3:1

It’s not easy being a father. One cynic, speaking from his own experience, noted that children go through four fascinating stages. First, they call you DaDa. Then they call you Daddy. As they mature, they call you Dad. Finally, they call you collect.

Parenting comes with a number of challenges — especially as children grow and their needs evolve. At first, children adore their father’s presence, then they seek independence, and eventually, they return when they need help.

That’s similar to our relationship with our Heavenly Father. When we first come to God in faith, we cling to him, fully dependent. As we mature, we sometimes distance ourselves, wanting to do things our own way. But when life gets tough, we realize just how much we need God, and we cry out for his help.

The beautiful truth is that, while we may change, God never does. He doesn’t reject us when we grow distant, and he doesn’t turn away from us when we return with desperate prayers. His love is constant, patient, and always available — no matter what stage of life we may be in.

Take a moment today to thank God for being the perfect Father who always answers when we call — collect or otherwise!

- alan smith

Heavenly Father, thank you for always being there for me, even when I drift away. Help me to stay close to you, not only in times of need but in every season of my life. I am grateful for your unfailing love. In Jesus’ name, amen.

.....aroma

For we are to God the pleasing aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing 2 Corinthians 2:15

After eight years of marriage, a husband and wife decided to make some changes in their lives. He went on a strict diet and she took a job in a small diner. After her first day at the diner, the wife returned home from work and gave her husband a big hug. He seemed to cling to her longer than usual. "Did you miss me that much today, dear?" she asked. "No," came the reply, "but you smell so much like pancakes that I hate to let you go!"

This humorous story reminds us just how powerful an aroma can be. 

Scents can evoke memories, stir emotions, and even make us long for something we crave.

We’re also reminded that what we spend time around has a way of sticking to us. Whether it’s the scent of a restaurant, the attitude of the people we surround ourselves with, or the things we dwell on in our minds, we tend to absorb what’s in our environment.

The Bible tells us that, as believers, we are meant to be the “pleasing aroma of Christ.” That means that our lives should give off the fragrance of God’s love, grace, and kindness. The way we do that is by spending time in the presence of Christ. As we spend more and more time with Jesus, his "scent" starts to cling to us.

And just as the smell of pancakes made that husband want to hold on a little longer, our Christlike love should make people want to linger in God’s presence. Jesus didn’t repel people — he attracted them. Sinners, outcasts, and the brokenhearted all wanted to be near him because he carried something they desperately needed. As his followers, we are called to do the same. When we reflect his love, kindness, and truth, we create an environment where people feel drawn to God.

Make an effort today to spend more time with Jesus so that his aroma clings to you and draws others closer to God.

- nyaguthi gathoni

Lord, help my life to be a pleasing fragrance to you and to those around me. Help me to spend time with you so that your love, kindness, and truth naturally flow from my life. May my words and my actions draw others closer to you. In Jesus’ name, amen.

.....holding

"Do to others as you would have them do to you." Luke 6:31

“Cash, check or charge?" the cashier asked, after folding the items a woman wished to purchase.

As the customer fumbled for her wallet, the cashier noticed a remote control for a television set in her purse. "So, do you always carry your TV remote?" he asked.

"No," she replied, "but my husband refused to come shopping with me, and I figured this was the worst thing I could do to him legally."

This story gives us a good laugh, but it also makes us think — how often do we hold on to things just to make a point? The woman in this story responded to her frustration by finding a way to make sure her husband “felt” the consequences.

In our relationships, it’s easy to hold on to grudges, annoyances, or the need to prove a point. Maybe someone hurt our feelings, didn’t meet our expectations, or just frustrated us. Instead of letting it go, we hold on to something — an argument, a cold shoulder, or a sarcastic comment —just to “make them pay.” But in the end, does it really help?

Jesus calls us to something better. In Luke 6:31, he reminds us to treat others as we would like to be treated. That means letting go of petty grievances and choosing kindness, even when we’re frustrated. Carrying around past offenses is like carrying a TV remote in our purse — it might give us a sense of control, but it doesn’t actually fix anything. Is there something you need to let go of today? Instead of holding on to the frustration, try holding on to grace.

- alan smith

Lord, give me patience in my relationships and a heart that responds with love instead of frustration. Teach me to treat others the way I want to be treated, showing grace just as you have shown grace to me. In Jesus’ name, amen.

.....workplace

Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters. Colossians 3:23

The following “Reasons for Leaving Last Job” have come from real resumés:

· Responsibility makes me nervous.

· They insisted that all employees get to work by 8:45 every morning. Couldn't work under those conditions.

· Was met with a string of broken promises and lies, as well as cockroaches.

· I was working for my mom until she decided to move.

· The company made me a scapegoat - just like my three previous employers.

Reading through these humorous "reasons for leaving," we can’t help but chuckle at the creative (and sometimes questionable) explanations that people give for their choices. While they may be amusing, they also reveal something deeper about human nature — our tendency to deflect responsibility, shift blame, or avoid commitment when things get tough.

The Bible calls us to approach our work and responsibilities with integrity and diligence. In Colossians 3:23, Paul reminds us that no matter who we work for, our ultimate employer is God. This means showing up, working hard, and taking responsibility for our actions — even when circumstances are difficult.

Instead of blaming others, making excuses, or running from challenges, we should ask God for the strength to persevere, the wisdom to navigate difficult situations, and the humility to own our mistakes. When we work with a heart focused on him, we not only honor God but we also grow in our character and faith.

Lord, please help me to approach my work and responsibilities with diligence and integrity. When challenges arise, give me the strength to face them with faith rather than excuses. May my actions in the workplace reflect your character in all that I do. In Jesus’ name, amen. 

- alan smith

.....growing

But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever! Amen 2 Peter 3:18

A seaman met a pirate in a bar, and their talk turned to their adventures on the sea. The seaman noticed that the pirate had a peg-leg, a hook, and an eye patch. He asked, "So, how did you end up with the peg-leg?"

The pirate replied, "We were in a storm at sea, and I was swept overboard into a school of sharks. Just as my men were pulling me out, a shark bit my leg off." "Wow! What about your hook?” The pirate said, "We were boarding an enemy ship and were battling the other sailors with swords. One of the enemy cut my hand off." "Incredible! How did you get the eye patch?” “A seagull dropping fell into my eye.”

"You lost your eye to a seagull dropping?," the sailor asked incredulously. "Well," said the pirate, "it was my first day with my hook."

Life has a way of teaching us lessons, often through painful experiences. Unfortunately, we can get wounded along the way — physically, emotionally, or spiritually. And like the pirate in this story, we sometimes survive some of life's biggest challenges only to get tripped up on the small, unexpected moments that catch us off guard and reveal our weaknesses. We act before thinking, and it costs us.

The truth is, we are all learning. None of us has perfect wisdom, knowing exactly how to handle every situation. God designed life to be a journey of growth. Even our mistakes, however frustrating or embarrassing they may be, can be used as a stepping stone toward wisdom.

The pirate in that story probably never made that mistake again! And that’s the key — learning from what happens so that we don’t keep making the same blunders. Let your mistakes be moments that bring you closer to God and make you wiser.

So, if you’ve had a “first day with the hook” moment, take heart — God is still working in you, and every misstep is an opportunity to grow.

Lord, thank you for your patience with me as I learn and grow. Help me to learn from my mistakes and to see them as opportunities to trust you more. Help me to grow in wisdom so that I can serve you better. In Jesus’ name, amen.

- alan smith

.....wind

 

When the south wind blows, you say, ‘It’s going to be hot,’ and it is. And when the north wind blows, you say, ‘It’s going to rain,’ and it does Luke 12:55

The real estate salesman said, "This house has both its good points and its bad points. To show you I'm honest, I'm going to tell you about both. The disadvantages are that there is a chemical plant one block south and a slaughterhouse a block north."

"What are the advantages?" inquired the prospective buyer.

"The advantage is that you can always tell which way the wind is blowing."

While the buyers may not have appreciated the smells, at least they’d always know which way the wind was blowing!

In our spiritual lives, we also need to discern which way the wind is blowing. Jesus warned the people in Luke 12 that they could interpret the weather, but they struggled to recognize the spiritual signs around them. As Christians, we are constantly surrounded by different "winds" —cultural trends, personal emotions, and spiritual influences. Some of these winds carry truth, while others lead us away from God’s will.

How do we discern God's direction? By staying in God’s Word, seeking his wisdom in prayer, and being sensitive to the Holy Spirit’s guidance. When we do that, we’ll not only know which way the wind is blowing — we’ll know which way God is leading us

Lord, help me to discern the winds around me and to follow your direction. Give me the wisdom to recognize your guidance and the courage to walk in your ways. In Jesus’ name, amen.

- alan smith

.....giver

Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver 2 Corinthians 9:7

A tired homemaker opened the front door of her home to find a young minister from the neighborhood who said, "I'm collecting donations for the new children's home we're building. I hope you'll give what you can."

"I’ll be happy to," said the exhausted woman, "I'll give you two boys, two girls, or one of each." The tired homemaker in that story had a generous spirit — just not in the way the young minister expected! Her response was humorous, but it reflects a deeper truth: giving can sometimes feel more like a burden than a joy, especially when we feel overwhelmed.

We all want to be generous, but sometimes life is exhausting, and we feel like we don’t have much left to give. Whether it’s taking care of a home, working hard, or simply managing daily struggles, life can leave us feeling drained.

But here’s the good news: God sees your efforts, and he values every little act of kindness you give, even when it doesn’t feel like much. Even small acts of kindness — a smile, a word of encouragement, a listening ear — can make a big impact in the hands of God.

So, if you’re feeling worn out today, take heart. Remember that God sees your efforts. He isn’t asking you to give what you don’t have — he’s simply inviting you to give what you can, and trust him to do the rest.

- alan smith

Lord, help me to have a generous spirit. Sometimes I feel like I have nothing left to give. Help me to see the little ways I can bless others and to trust that as long as I give from a place of love with a cheerful heart, you will use it for good. In Jesus’ name, amen.

.....known

Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine Isaiah 43:1

My husband and I, with our two daughters, operate a small sheep farm. One day a non-farming friend asked, "How can you bear to slaughter those cute little lambs?" My husband explained, "We don't want to get emotionally attached to the ones we plan to eat, so we don't give them names."

Not satisfied, the friend probed, "What about your kids?" Her husband quickly replied, "Oh, we name them!"

In biblical times, names carried deep meaning. Naming something means connection. It means belonging. And in the Bible, we see that God always names and knows His people. In John 10, Jesus, the Good Shepherd, tells us that he calls his sheep by name. He doesn’t see us as nameless, faceless members of a flock — he knows us personally.

That means no matter how unnoticed or unimportant you may feel at times, you are never just a face in the crowd to God. He knows your struggles, your joys, and even your quirks. And because he knows you, he cares for you deeply. You are treasured. You belong to him.

So, the next time you feel overlooked or insignificant, remember this: God has called you by name. You are known, chosen, and cherished by the one who calls you his own.

Lord, thank You for calling me by name and reminding me that I am loved and known. Help me to trust in your care and rest in the security of being yours. In Jesus’ name, amen.

- julie helms

.....side

The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands Psalm 19:1

A little girl was camping with her dad one evening and got to see a sight city-folk rarely get to witness. As the sky got pitch black, the stars were absolutely brilliant. The little girl looked up and said, "Daddy, if the bottom side of heaven looks this beautiful, what must the other side look like!"

Have you ever looked up at the night sky and felt overwhelmed by its beauty? There’s something breathtaking about a sky untouched by city lights. It’s a sight that stirs the soul, reminding us of how vast and magnificent God truly is.

But the little girl was right. If this world — this temporary, broken place — can still hold such beauty, imagine what awaits us in eternity! Our greatest moments of awe here on this earth are just the faintest glimpses of the glory to come.

When we marvel at a sunset, stand in awe of a mountain range, or feel the vastness of the ocean, we’re seeing evidences of the Creator’s handiwork. And yet, even the most stunning landscapes of earth pale in comparison to the beauty of heaven. Revelation 21:23 tells us that heaven doesn’t even need the sun or moon, because the glory of God himself gives it light.

But here’s the most amazing part: Heaven’s beauty isn’t just about golden streets or crystal-clear rivers. The greatest wonder of all is that we will be in the very presence of God. No more pain. No more sorrow. No more distance between us and our Savior. Just pure, unending joy in the fullness of his love.

So, the next time you look up at a starry night, take a moment to remember: If this is what the bottom side of heaven looks like, imagine what’s waiting on the other side!

Lord, your creation is breathtaking, and it fills my heart with wonder. Thank you for giving us glimpses of your glory in this world. I long for the day when I will see you face to face. Until then, let me shine your light here on this earth. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

- alan smith

.....praise

We need to rejoice and praise in order to sustain Spiritual life. A heart that has not been transformed by the Spirit of God cannot truly praise, and a transformed heart that does not praise will surely cease to pump Spiritual life through the body.

Silas had joined Paul on his second missionary journey. Early in the journey, the two men were seized and brought before the authorities; "These men are Jews and are throwing our city into an uproar" Acts 16:20. For this act they were stripped, beaten, and thrown in prison with chains around their feet. However, their hearts continued to praise God and give Him thanks in spite of their conditions.

About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them Acts 16:25

Giving thanks in the form of prayer, praise, song, celebration, or simply as an attitude of thankfulness is mentioned well over one thousand times in the Bible. It's no surprise that having a heart filled with thanksgiving should be an integral part of the Christian walk. We need to see this world, and the entirety of our life, with new eyes - eyes that see God's hand at work in every moment of every day.

If we believe in the One True God as the Creator of the Universe and accept the gift of eternal life through Jesus Christ, we should be compelled to give thanks...regardless of our circumstances. We should begin to see the evidence of God all around and praise Him even for the air we breathe.

A heart without praise and thanksgiving is empty and does not yet understand a sovereign God or His plan. If our surroundings are continually dictating the thankfulness of our heart, perhaps we ought to ask God to reveal His loving plan in even greater clarity. God wants to see us live a life of true peace and contentment; but first and foremost, He desires for us to surrender our life to Him and bring Him glory and honor in ALL we do. Only then, and only with the power of His Spirit, will we be able to "give thanks in all circumstances" 1 Thessalonians 5:18. Thankfulness does NOT depend on our particular situation!

We cannot produce thanksgiving by simply trying to be more thankful. We only become thankful by taking our heart back to the very origin of our new nature - back to the saving grace of Jesus. Let's return to the point where our life was made new and once again learn to rejoice; once again learn to absolutely trust; once again learn to live with a true heart of thanksgiving.