Alive and Active Life

What is God’s attitude? Does anyone actually know? You can sense attitudes in others just by being around them. The same is true when you spend time with God. You sense His attitude, particularly if you are familiar with His Word. Additionally, you sense God’s attitude about you, particularly if you believe His Word. The best way to know God’s attitude about anything is to be in His Word – and to spend time with Him as a friend. Read More …

So, I have a suggestion. Start and end every day for the next month, saying – “God is interested in me.” Fully believe it in your heart. Without a doubt, repeating this would impact you. Afterall, messages you allow into your head and heart have power. They launch you. Conversely, they can derail you. So, use the power of messages to build a strong relationship with God. Afterall, God is interested in you. Let’s explore what this looks like. Read More …

Once-in-awhile, you wonder what really matters in life. Frankly, I believe thinking, speaking, and behavior matters – in every relationship: Parent-child. Teacher-student. Government-citizen. Boss-employee. Even friend-friend.   Without being well-thought, well-spoken, and well-behaved, relationships can be compromised – even shallow. Sadly, they can become destructive. Conversely, when a person thinks carefully, their speaking and behavior becomes meaningful. Additionally, this benefits everyone around them. Interestingly, thinking, speaking, and behavior matters even globally. Let’s explore. Read More …

To engage life fully, you need to be “all-in.” Consider: have you ever looked at a lamp that blinks off and on? First, you suspect a lightbulb. So, you unscrew it and (to test it) screw it into another lamp. It works! Your mind scans possibilities. Could this be poor wiring inside the lamp? Or the cord. As you follow the cord to the wall, suddenly, you see it. The plug is only half plugged-in. To work, you know it needs to be all-in. Read More …

If you are reading this at the beginning of your day, you have no idea how today will look. If it’s the end of your day, you might be pleased – or rather disappointed – depending on how things went. So often, life does not meet people’s expectations. Many times, you must make allowances and adjustments. Especially, when things don’t go well. Read More …

What keeps you from your best? It could be someone, something – or it could be you. This material is about your health, growth, and progress. Of course, every person of every age continues to grow all their life. However, health and progress depend on some things. Additionally, sometimes there’s interference with progress in your relationship with God. Let’s look closer. Read More …

Before we start with “Always Say Yes,” I want to tell you about an Easter devotional – FREE – to use this week. This tool gives you 2 pages for each day that feature: First, a “Brief Focus” with reflective thoughts. Second, a “Fun Activity” for each day. Third, a “Teaching Point” that blends those two sections into practical action points for your life.   If you follow us on your favorite podcast app, you’ll get the audio episodes of the same content in your feed. So, you can have a visual and audio version to Prepare For Easter. Click here to get your free copy. Read More …

Right now, I’m thinking of the late Queen Elizabeth II of England. One thing I remember and admire about her is how she always carried herself. Without doubt, she portrayed quality character, even in difficulties. Matter of fact, as I followed her life and conduct, I witnessed how she portrayed her position of privilege. How does a discussion about privilege apply to you? Let’s explore together. Read More …

Once-in-awhile, a burner on my stovetop “goes nova!” Unexplainably, it just gets super hot. Interestingly, it even glows! Needless to say, that makes it challenging to cook. As I ponder that frustrating phenomenon, I find myself reflecting about when life heats up and “goes nova!” When life heats up, you must – Manage the heat. Address critical details. Try not to get burned. Maneuver as skillfully as possible. Pray for God’s help.   Have you ever gone nova? Read More …

Think for a minute. What is your most valuable and effective daily resource? In fact, what are your top two tools you rely on most to effectively navigate your day? Your phone? Car? Washer and dryer? Backyard grill? To-do list? Cup of coffee? Bread machine? Google maps? What if I told you about two powerful tools that help you navigate the territory of your soul each day? Interestingly, that’s where the power of 2 little verses comes in. Let’s explore. Read More …

I often wonder what my readers and listeners are thinking as they read articles or listen to podcast episodes. Most importantly, I hope you to always read or hear: God wants you! So, in this content, we explore seven points that prove God wants you. Read More …

Have you ever seen a pressure cooker going full tilt? It’s a noisy, powerful event. Weights rocking. Steam hissing. The sound of boiling water from inside the cooker. It can even be a bit scary if you think about all the built-up pressure and stress going on inside that sealed kettle. Yes, the kettle you are standing right next to! With this illustration, let’s discuss the pressures of life and secrets of hope. Read More …

Be content! What, exactly, does that mean? Realistically, if you were to rate yourself on a scale of 1 – 10 (1 not very content and 10 very content), where would you place yourself? Importantly, why? Contentment is a critical piece needed to live a healthy life. Read More …

  By now, I hope you’ve had a good start into this new year. Like so many other years, you’ll likely find yourself wearing down at some point. First, you’re not alone. Second, the key is to get in front of that reality. In this content, we look at the need for a heart-lift when you’re weary. Plus, we identify what it looks like to pursue a heart-lift. Read More …

I’m sure you’ve listened to the news . . . read the newspapers . . . listened to podcasts. Subsequently, you know the world is really struggling right now. In essence, that’s why we should explore what it looks like to have hope in terrible times. Read More …

  The first article this year was “Start This Year Well.” We explored 10 great action points. January is almost over, and some of the emotional energy of starting a new year is wearing off. So, we ask the question – how can you live well this year? The entire year! Afterall, it’s an on-going question. Read More …

  I’m sure you’ve heard the short quote – “life is good.” In fact, I even have a yellow T-shirt with that quote on it. When times are good, it’s easy to believe this is true. However, when times get tough, it takes resolve to fully believe Jesus makes life good. But! He does make life good. In today’s content, we’ll explore how this is true no matter what happens in your life. Naturally, this content gives you a boost into living well this New Year. Read More …

When you think of “refreshing and rare,” who comes to your mind? What character qualities define this person? I’m guessing they are courageous, personable, persevering. Further, I imagine they are kind and gentle, as well as strong and honest. Most of all, the person who comes to your mind probably lives with hope. As you enter this next year, you need hope, too. The next 12 months provide opportunity to manage, enjoy, and problem-solve in your life. Thankfully, God provides refreshing and rare hope for every day. Read More …

Happy New Year! May it be a good one for you! Now, to set the tone, here’s a quote from C.S. Lewis – “There are far better things ahead than any we leave behind.” With this insightful observation, let’s explore 10 points to start this year well. Read More …

This week, I get to say – HAPPY NEW YEAR – to you! Of course, it’s also an opportunity for a fresh new start. So, let’s look at some action points for a great start with strong traction this next year. Read More …

I remember one Christmas years ago – I almost missed Christmas! That experience was a “wake-up call.” In my busy life, filling roles and carrying out responsibilities – all the Christmas preparations pulled me off track. I asked God to show me what happened and how to avoid it in the future. That’s when I learned how to pause at Christmastime. And it works! Now, I use a “pause” all through the year. Do you need to pause a bit more this Christmas?   Read More …

During a season filled with peace and joy, it’s painful to experience grieving at Christmastime. But that’s what many people do. They celebrate. Simultaneously, they grieve. There are always losses in life. Sometimes, these losses almost consume the space meant to be filled with peace and joy. Strategically, there are ways to keep these spaces free for healthy processes – even at Christmastime. Read More …

  Many cherished Christmas carols talk about joy. Consider Joy To The World – “Joy to the world, the Lord has come.” Or While By My Sheep – “Joy, joy, joy! (echo) joy, joy, joy.” If you are looking for joy at Christmastime, you are joined by millions of people. Interestingly, Paul starts every single letter he wrote in the New Testament with wishes of grace and JOY to his readers. So, how’s your joy as Christmas approaches? Read More …

Many cherished Christmas carols talk about peace. Consider Silent Night – “sleep in heavenly peace.” Or, Hark The Herald Angels – “peace on earth, goodwill toward men.” Yes, for centuries people have yearned for peace. Particularly, peace at Christmastime. Let’s face it. This world really needs peace. Interestingly, peace starts in each individual heart. Equally, lasting peace only comes from the “Prince of Peace” – Jesus Christ. So, peace at Christmastime . . . Peace At Christmastime Every Christmas – don’t you wish for peace? Specifically, peace in your own personal life – but also peace for the whole world. Peace at Christmastime starts in you – and then ripples out to others around you . . . even into the world. So, how is your peace doing as we approach Christmas? Further, are you sharing peace with others? Receive God’s Gift Of Peace God gives His peace to you. Naturally, as you accept it by faith, His peace becomes your own personal peace. Incidentally, receiving peace is similar to receiving a gift: Pick it up. Unwrap it. Eagerly peek inside. Take out the contents. Identify what’s inside. Reflect on why the gift is special by remembering the Giver. Say, “thank you!”   Your Hand – A Reminder Of Peace Your hand is always with you. But is peace always with you? Maybe – maybe not. Did you know your hand can remind you of peace? Let’s explore The Peace Hand. Peace Hand Do you remember nursery rhymes and songs you learned as a child? One little song I remember names every finger to teach small children about their fingers and hand. It follows this format. First, a question is posed. Then, the answer is given in response. It starts with your thumb. Hide it behind your back with all your fingers until the question is asked. QUESTION: “Tom Thumb, Tom Thumb. Where are you?” Then, as you answer that question, you pull your hand out from behind your back. And the “featured finger takes a bow.” ANSWER: “Here I am. Here I am. How do you do?” Then the song takes you through all your fingers in the sa...

It’s Thanksgiving! Time for a “self-check” on gratitude. A mindset of gratitude makes a huge difference, even when things are difficult or painful. So, if you had a Gratitude Scale that measured how thankful you are, where would you score on a scale 1-10? Let’s explore “mindset of gratitude.” But first – let’s have some fun with that Gratitude Scale we mentioned. Read More …

I can’t think of a better way to begin this content – purpose-filled living – than to quote a good authority on the subject. “Your most profound and intimate experiences of worship will likely be in your darkest days – when you heart is broken, when you feel abandoned, when you’re out of options, when the pain is great – and you turn to God alone.” (Rick Warren) This insightful quote leads us into our discovery today. Read More …

Recently, I connected with a dear friend and learned about her struggle with cancer. Not only her courage to face cancer, but the tenacity and grit it takes to go through chemo treatments. On top of that, to deal with side effects. Little sleep, loss of hair, skin so sensitive you can’t comfortably wear a hat or light scarf. Terrible pain. Time off work. Daily responsibilities still demand attention. Without a doubt, it takes courage and confidence to make it through such difficult circumstances. How I admire this friend. Each day, she rises into new courage as she manages these realities. Plus, she remains confident God will carry her through. At the same time, she is honest and authentic about her sufferings. So, let’s dive into what it means to live with courage and confidence each day – no matter what your situation. Read More …

Someone’s hanging from a high ledge, ready to fall! They’re yelling for help and losing strength. Now, they hold on with only one hand. You know emergency teams will never make it in time. Frantically, you grab a nearby sturdy tarp and enlist five or six strong-looking by-standers to hold tightly on corners and sides – a “make-shift” life-net directly below. Realizing the person is about to fall, yet is filled with fear, you yell, “Let go. It’ll be OK.” This is #6 in a series on hope. Read More …

As I consider today’s material: “Strong Hope,” I’m reminded of a Bible passage in one of my quiet times. Interestingly, a thought struck me as I read that passage. Simply this. If I were to make a list of all the struggles, issues, sorrows, and difficulties in my life so far – – and if I were to put a column of dates next to them (similar to what I have in my Bible) – then, if I were to record a verse or promise God gave me for that particular situation in a third column – I would have an amazing record of God’s faithfulness in my neediness. In fact, I’d have enough material to publish a book about strong hope. This is #5 in a series on hope. Read More …

Have you ever desperately cried out “change me, Lord?” I have. I vividly remember a time I said this many years ago. Challenges had piled up. Demands were high. Expectations even higher. I was pulled in too many directions. And I felt overwhelmed. Read More …

As I write “You Are Included,” I remember a special event several years ago. I was finishing a book manuscript in a bed and breakfast when I met a lovely couple staying in the next room. In the dining area, they invited me to join them at their table. I learned they were on their honeymoon through a previous, introductory conversation. So, I declined. Still, I felt special to be invited. The next day, they invited me again! I told them my reservation – “You’re on your honeymoon, and I don’t want to barge in!” They reassured they wanted to visit with me. Suddenly, I had courage to say, “yes.” Subsequently, I found myself delightfully included at their table. This is #3 in a series on hope. It’s been encouraging exploring hope for two articles. Check them out. (See below.) Read More …

Hope is so important, don’t you agree? Sometimes it seems hope just . . . disappears! Or – you can barely it see through a pinhole of hope. Regardless, just like – Life-saving fluids enter your body through a “pinhole” of an IV needle. The “pinhole” of a telescope, microscope, camera, or binoculars provides a refined, clearer view –   – so the “pinhole” of hope gives you a more realistic view of life. This is critical – especially during difficult seasons. This is #2 in a series on hope. I’m excited about this series. I hope you will be, too. Read More …

To be without hope is discouraging – even exhausting. Equally, a message of hope is such welcome news. Perhaps you need that right now. This is #1 in a series on hope. So, stay tuned! Read More …

  I’m thinking of a specific person. Actually, a remarkable person. As I got to know and interact with them, I realized they are the perfect example of what we discuss today – well-thought, well-spoken, well-lived. Over time, I came to deeply respect this person because they represent a very well-lived life! Who comes to your mind as you consider today’s content? Read More …

The power of good ripples is like tossing a pebble into a quiet pond. First, the entry of the pebble creates a “plunk.” As the water receives the pebble, it leaps up with a splash of welcome. Then the ripple begins! It’s beautiful to watch from the side. Artful, smooth, concentric circles roll outward. Interestingly, their art continues to “tell” about the pebble. Finally, the ripples reach the edge of the water and fade into the bank. Circle by circle becomes still – and once again, you see your own reflection in the pond canvas. Thankfully, good ripples still happen in life. First, there’s a start – the plunk. Then, the power of good – ripples outward. Considering the upheaval and confused state of our world, wouldn’t you agree you should adopt good ripples on a personal level? Read More …

The highest motive is often identified when a person, family, community, or country is under duress. For instance, both world wars gave the global public – and nations – opportunities to choose motives that are honorable despite risks, sacrifices, and cost. Incidentally, it’s helpful to know your personal highest motive. Additionally, to let it propel you into opportunities each day. Also, this gives you influence and purpose. President Zelensky said – Read More …

A couple of decades ago, there was a commercial for Coca-Cola that claimed – “It’s the real thing.” If this is before your time, just google it. There was another trend during those years. Basically, how to be real. I also recall another phrase – “It’s the real deal.” Incidentally, that phrase inspired marketing strategies, shareable images, at least one podcast, creative pictures, and use in daily conversation. Essentially, it means – “the real thing, genuine, not fake, not imitation, not a copy.” Read More …

What’s the theme of your life? Have you thought about it? Some people target a theme and work toward it for years. Others simply live – and notice a theme forms over time. Interestingly, if you engage some strategy, you can maneuver – and even change – your life theme. Hope and opportunity are always available to help you move forward. Let’s explore. Read More …

You’ve heard the illustration of standing in front of several doors, having to choose one without knowing what’s behind each. Similarly, doors you choose for your life become your reality. This can be exciting. Contrastingly, some doors bring great sadness. Nevertheless, you discover new things behind doors. And new experiences can provide hope – if you hold God’s hand while you open and close doors of your life. Read More …

OK! Think WINTER! Freezing cold. You feel exposed – at risk. Plus – you’re shivering! Next thing you know, someone offers you a soft, comfortable, big blanket. Plus, it’s an electric blanket, already plugged in – cozy and warm. This word picture shows what it’s like to be covered by God’s love. Particularly in the cold of the world where you are sometimes exposed and at risk. Read More …

Back in the year 2000, in the Disney movie, “The Kid,” two grown-ups have a conversation about growing up. One of them, Amy, says, “Well, we can’t go around anymore talking about what we’re going to be like when we grow up. We are up.” Basically, she’s saying – it’s time to live grown up. So, let’s explore what it means to live grown up. Read More …

Question for you. What does the White City and your life have in common? Of course, you’ll remember the White City is straight out of J. R. R. Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings trilogy. Interestingly, between the White City and another city, Osgiliath, there’s a lot in common with your life. Let’s look. Read More …