Patience. It is a fruit of the Spirit we don’t particularly like. Still, it is a characteristic we develop to reflect Christ. There are several examples in Scripture of people who experienced patience. Noah was told to build an ark, yet he waited 100 years for the flood. Moses was used to deliver the children… Continue reading Reward in the Waiting
Category: Discipline
Beauty in the Waiting
Patience ... This is a word we all dislike at times. Patience ... We want everything when we want it, and we don’t want to wait! Patience ... It is too hard to have patience. Patience ... Is waiting really worth it? Before a beautiful butterfly exits a cocoon, it takes various forms. I once… Continue reading Beauty in the Waiting
Pursuing Peace
There have been instances in which I have experienced undeniable peace with major life decisions, conflict resolution, job situations, or family crises. There have also been instances in which peace seemed difficult to find, resulting in unrest, fear, anxiety, and worry. Like joy, peace is internal and difficult to grasp. It is an unexplainable calm,… Continue reading Pursuing Peace
Developing Peace
Recently, I spent a day in DC with family. It was ... peaceful. The traffic was manageable. The people were friendly. The day was beautiful. Even at the end of the workday, I noticed people enjoying the outdoors by playing soccer or frisbee or walking their dog. Yes, it may have been an extraordinary—not the… Continue reading Developing Peace
Unexplainable Joy
Joy is inner, unexplainable, delightful peace. It’s quiet. It’s calming. It’s resting. It’s uplifting. Joy is a gift from God. It is fruit of the Spirit. Joy is recognizing the blessings of God and finding delight. As we proclaim our thankfulness to God for the gifts He so willingly and abundantly bestows upon His children,… Continue reading Unexplainable Joy
A Growing Faith
We’ve examined many bridges and connected them uniquely to excellence and our faith. As we conclude this series, we identify what may be necessary to keep our bridges structurally sound and long lasting. These bridge connections include intercession, foundation and support, legacy, relationships, and using gifts in ministry. Over time, if intentional maintenance is not… Continue reading A Growing Faith
Bridge Maintenance
Welcome back to Connections2Excellence! We have looked at types of bridges, covered bridges, bridge construction, bridge foundations and support, bridges around the world, unique bridges, bridges in our relationships, and bridges in the arts. On Faith Connection Friday, we connect these concepts to our faith. As we draw this bridge to a close, we recognize… Continue reading Bridge Maintenance
Bridges and the Arts
Welcome to Connections2Excellence! We have been a series on connecting bridges to excellence. Today, let's consider other types of bridges instead of physical structures. The arts allow one to bridge to creativity and expression--creative arts, visual arts, and performing arts, among others. Creativity is demonstrated through pottery, ceramics, needlework, sculpting, painting, drawing, or woodworking. Unique… Continue reading Bridges and the Arts
Bridges to Faith Relationships
In my early 20s, I made an unexpected friend that has lasted for decades. Initially, it involved a conversation about a cute guy. Somehow, the conversation turned to other things, and another friend joined us. We frequented Denny’s for coffee and eventually became the best, inseparable friends. Relationships are a way of life. We all… Continue reading Bridges to Faith Relationships
Bridges to Honor
The month of June is dedicated to celebrating our fathers. To celebrate this special day, I have chosen to honor one of the best fathers I know—my husband, Todd. We have one son, Calvin, and Todd has always been an amazing father. Todd’s vocation is a minister, and we have been blessed that he has… Continue reading Bridges to Honor