The French Press

Repentance isn’t about shame, it’s about freedom. In this episode, I share how coming into alignment with God brings healing, breaks cycles, and releases the weight we were never meant to carry. When we stay out of alignment through sin, wounds, or even hidden struggles, those things don’t just disappear. They linger, grow, and eventually show up in our relationships, our thoughts, and our behaviors. God invites us into restoration and ultimately relationship with Him. Repentance offers us freedom from bondage. Books Mentioned:Soul Care - Dr. Rob ReimerInstruments in the Redeemer’s Hands - Paul TrippExperiencing Jesus Really - John EldredgeSacred Parenting - Gary ThomasScripture References:2 Samuel 11-12 (David & Bathsheba; repentance)Psalm 51 (David’s repentance prayer)Psalm 32:3-4 (effects of unconfessed sin)Romans 5:6-8 (Christ died for us while we were sinners)Mark 6 (faith, dependence on God)  

We spend so much of life building sandcastles - things that look important but won’t actually last. In this episode, I’m unpacking what it means to do real soul work and why so many of us are walking around with cracks in our foundation without even realizing it. Join me as we name the three big lies that shape our identity. What you build on matters. Castles will crumble, but a life built on Christ will last. Books mentioned in this episode:• Soul Care by Dr. Rob Reimer• Waking Up to the Goodness of God by Susie Larson• My Brilliant Career by Miles Franklin

Any good gardener knows you can't just pull the leaves off the the top of a weed, it will grow back almost immediately. Unwanted plants in our flowerbeds need to be dug out by the roots. This is also true when it comes to the soil of our souls. We are hoping to grow the fruits of the Spirit but often find ugly weeds popping up when we are stressed or tired. It feels easier to manage our behaviors than get out a shovel and start digging around in our hearts. Join me as we discuss what it looks like to make real, lasting changes in our lives. Books mentioned: Soul Care: 7 Transformational Principles for a Healthy Soul — Dr. Rob ReimerInstruments in the Redeemer’s Hands — Paul TrippTea Time Discipleship — Sally ClarksonBible Verses & Books Referenced: Proverbs 3:5–6 — Trust in the Lord, not your own understandingGalatians 6:7 — You reap what you sow Psalms (various) — David speaking to his soulJames 5:16 — Confess your sins to one another 2 Samuel (life of David) — Honest portrayal of sin, struggle, and repentance

In second Samuel God told David to move quickly when he heard a rustling in the mulberry trees. This was a supernatural act and David's job was to respond quickly. There is a wonderful picture here for us today; when God is stirring you to move forward, don't hesitate, He is with you. David won that battle because he listened for the rustling in the trees. Are you listening? Books mentioned on this episode:1 & 2 Samuel 

Our souls need tending. The Bible has a lot to say about the soul. David in the Psalms often talked to his soul. He encouraged it to look to the Lord in times of trouble. There is great mystery surrounding our inner beings. Soul. Spirit. Heart. On this episode, we wade into the inner working of our souls. Paul tells us there is a war waging inside of us. Are you being a good steward of your soul? Books mentioned in this episode:Instruments in the Redeemer's Hand by Paul David Tripp Little Women by Louisa May Alcott Teaching of Tim and Elaine Russo Relational Impact Ministries 

Little Women is one of my favorite stories. A novel worth re-reading in different stages of life. The March sisters make for a fascinating case study of the different ways we struggle in our hearts. Join me as we look at this wonderful classic. What's the history behind Louisa May Alcott writing this famous book, and how is it still relevant today?Books mentioned in this episode:Little Women by Louisa May AlcottInstruments in the Redeemer's Hand by Paul David TrippResource:Biblical Counseling Training, San Antonio, TX https://share.google/5K1IetOSSBc7gw3Xr

Have you ever wondered why most books and movies follow a similar narrative? Join me as we explore the epic story arc of the Bible and see that as humans, made in God's image, we are so often retelling this awe-inspiring plot. You will never look at your favorite stories the same way. God has put the echo of a story in our hearts and it is full of lore, danger, evil and good. There is a bigger story being told and we are invited to step out of our small lives into the grand story of the Gospel.Books mentioned in this episode:Epic by John Eldredge 

We were all born into an epic story. The narrative started long before we showed up on the scene. Most of us spend part of our life trying to figure out what happened and where we are at in the story right now. Thankfully, God gave us a guide book. The Bible tells us where we came from and where we are going. Are you looking at a map trying to figure out where you are in this timeline? Join me in this episode as we look at The Greatest Story Ever Told, one in which we ourselves have been given a role.Books mentioned in this episode:Epic by John EldredgeTea Time Discipleship by Sally Clarkson

Sometimes we focus too much on the task itself, like a young child walking with a cup of coffee, if we freeze up with every step it will jostle what's inside. When we pay attention to where we are going (eternity) we will walk with a natural gait and not spill the coffee. How do we keep our eyes on the Lord? In this episode, we dig deeper into how a Christian reaches perfection, or do they? Books mentioned on this episode:The Optimism of Grace by Cliff Sanders 1 Samuel 

At Christmastime we strive to make everything feel special. In the novella, The Romance of Christmas Cards, the author mentions the transformation of plain packages into those that are beribboned and behollied. We transform our homes for this season, but do we transform our hearts? Join me in a conversation about two classic Christmas stories of reconciliation, forgiveness and sacrifice. Let's start to adorn our hearts with the love God bestowed on us by sending his son as a babe in a manger to call us home. Books mentioned on this episode:Twelve Classic Christmas Stories by Timothy Larsen

Psalm 23 teaches that the Lord sets a table for us- even in the desert. He overwhelms us with hospitality. As Christians, we are set apart to Him, separate, no longer common, but holy. Like Abigail in 1 Samuel, we can come to a situation not only bearing gifts, but sweet words, bringing peace and encouragement. The Bible teaches that we are anointed with oil and our cup runneth over. Because of this abundance of favor, we can spill God's goodness on all those we encounter. Abiding Women: Untangling Prayer (Featured Guest): https://open.spotify.com/episode/1Ys8usHxnPnXIUyToDvFDB?si=qKPWRstcQeuvHnUXaWhgUABooks mentioned in this episode:Every day a New Shade of Blue by Dan Roper The Optimism of Grace by Cliff Sanders1st Samuel

Do you feel like you were cast in the wrong part? Surely someone more qualified or more loving or more "Christian" would be better leading this ministry, raising these kids, or talking to that person. We feel like God messed up when He cast our roll. Yet, He knows our short-comings and our weaknesses and He has chosen us to represent Him in the places we have been cast.We take a deeper look at Psalm 23 and what it means to walk through the Valley of the Shadow of Death. Like The Pilgrim's Progress character Christian, we will walk through many trials, doubts, and fears, yet we don't need to worry because God is with us. Feeling stage fright?Books mentioned in this episode:Every Day A New Shade of Blue by David Roper

Pearls are formed when an irritant or a sharp grain of sand gets inside an oyster shell. The same is true for us spiritually, the things that feel so painful to go through can actually be the catalyst to forming Pearls of Wisdom in our lives. Are we willing to step into other people's suffering and, alternatively, allow others into ours? How is the terrain of our heart? As we examine the parable of the sower we want to make sure we have good soil for the seed (the word of God) to grow. Books mentioned in this episode:Through the Bible commentary series: Matthew by J.Vernon McGee The optimism of Grace by Cliff SandersExperience Jesus. Really. by John EldredgeArticle about Jim mentioned in the episode: https://www.heraldpalladium.com/news/longform/st-joseph-community-rallies-in-support-of-willard-on-als-journey/article_527e3922-f48f-521d-b844-6af0f00d12b3.html

The world fractures us and all too often we get stuck in these broken spots. In this episode we take about what John Eldredge calls, "young places." When we encounter sharp people or hardships, sometimes we act out of these fractured or immature places. Like stained glass, God puts us back together to make a beautiful mosaic: beautiful in our brokenness. The prayer book I mention is called: The Valley of Vision Books mentioned in this episode:Experience Jesus. Really. by John Eldredge Waking up to the Goodness of God by Susie Larson 

Often, we need help getting started. We need someone to set us up on the right path. I would never have attempted embroidery if a friend had not threaded the needle and started the stitches. Who could we help get started on the path of growing in the Lord? God offers refuge in His love; he helps us to forgive and move forward. Any progress is still progress, like an inchworm, you keep moving towards the Lord little by little.Books mentioned in this episode:Through the Bible commentary series: Matthew  by J.Vernon McGee Everyday A New Shade of Blue by Don Roper Experience Jesus. Really. by John Eldridge

Elijah experienced great miracles, and still he ran in fear and hid in a cave of despair. Even as Christians, who read our bibles, pray, and go to church, we can find ourselves in isolation, believing the lies of the enemy, just like the great prophet. Yet, God provided for Elijah, just like he does for us today. The Lord is in the small whispers of encouragement. He sends friends and speaks truth over our lives; he might even send a raven. Books mentioned in this episode:1 Samuel Ask Me Anything, Lord by Heather C. King 

Psalm 23 may be the most familiar of all of David's writings. Sometimes the words lose their meaning when we have heard them our whole lives. Let's take a deeper look at this remarkable piece of poetry. Are you feeling in want? Are you tired and weary? Lost? Join me as we look at the life of this former shepherd and anointed king. There is so much for us in The Word as God's love rushes into even the smallest cracks in our hearts. Books mentioned in this episode:1 Samuel Everyday A New Shade of Blue by Don Roper

There's something really special about a pillow fort. It's a little escape from the world. When life turns up the heat and the world seems too big and scary, like children we want to crawl into a safe, soft environment. The Lord is our secret place, he says come to me all who are weary and heavy burdened. Like our childhood pillow forts, we can feel safe and secure inside the heart of the Lord.Books mentioned in this episode:1 Samuel Matthew Experience Jesus. Really. by John Eldridge Waking Up to the Goodness of God by Susie Larson

In this episode we talk about baptism. What does it mean? why did Christ need to get baptized and why do we? After Jesus fasted he was taken by the spirit of the Lord to be tempted in the desert where we draw an interesting contrast with Eve being tempted in the garden. Why does God allow testing? Could it be for our good? Sometimes the truth gets tangled up in lies are we willing to do the work to sort them out? Books mentioned in this episode:Matthew Thru the Bible Commentary Series: Matthew by J. Vernon McGee Waking Up to the Goodness of God by Susie Larsonhttps://thedemitassedrafts.com/https://www.instagram.com/demitasse_drafts/https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61558460712970

Jonathan, in 1 Samuel, trusts God to fight a battle even though the odds were against him. This account reminds us that God can use few to defeat many. The Lord doesn’t need favorable conditions to accomplish His purpose in your life. Nor do we have to go it alone. Jonathan had an armor bearer who went into battle alongside him. Let's look at the role of this unnamed man who plays such a significant role in Jonathan's life. Are there brave and bold encouragers in our lives? Can we play this part for others?Books mentioned in this episode:1 SamuelMatthewThru the Bible Commentary Series: Matthew by J. Vernon McGeeWaking Up to the Goodness of God by Susie LarsonDwell on These Things by Natalie Abbott & Vera SchmitsTying the Knot by Rob Green

The Bible is so rich in spiritual wisdom, even the "boring" parts astound me under the right teaching. Join me as we look at the genealogy of Matthew-and so much more! These lists of names are promises, are hope, are proof that God has a plan (has always had a plan). Sometimes life feels like a prolonged winter, yet we have the promise of Springtime. New growth always blooms. If we are walking with God we have the assurance that new life is ours, and we can place our hope in those promises even when a cold wind blows. Books mentioned in this episode:1 SamuelThru the Bible Commentary Series: Matthew 1-13 by J. Vernon McGee Waking Up to the Goodness of God by Susie LarsonDwell on These Things by Natalie Abbott & Vera Schmitz

Sea glass starts out as a broken piece of glass-- something people avoid bc they might get hurt. Sharp bits of glass that make it into the sea get tossed about in the waves until they turn into something beautiful. The rough edges are made soft and lovely and people collect sea glass because it brings them joy. The storms of life toss us about but the redemptive work of God can smooth us into eye-catching treasures.  The apostles Paul tell us about our thought life and how much it shapes our world. He models a prayer for us in Colossians that I can't stop praying. Lastly, we peer in at a story of a group of English farmers sacrificing for a dog who can never thank them and then we follow a couple of milk cows through first Samuel as they teach us about sacrificing to do God's will. Do these stories remind us of anyone? Books mentioned in this episode:1 SamuelColossians Dwell on These Things by Natalie Abbott & Vera Schmits Animal Stories by James Herriot Waking up to the Goodness of God by Susie Larson 

Paul in Philippians tells us to pray about anything and everything. In this episode, we look at the prayers of Hannah in 1 Samuel and examine where we are putting our trust. What we dwell on forms who we are and how we process life. When we narrow in on our struggles we forget we serve a God who is bigger than anything we face. What stops you from going to Him with anything and everything?Books mentioned in this episode:1 SamuelPhillipians 4:6, 2:19-28,Waking up to the Goodness of God by Susie LarsonDwell on These Things by Natalie Abbott & Vera SchmitsRejection and Spiritual Roots of Diseases by Dr. Henry W. Wright 

There is a heavenly exchange that takes place in a Christian's life; where we trade death for life, dark for light, and bitter for sweet. This supernatural exchange can take place because Christ Jesus was willing to give up His crown of gold for one of thorns. Join me in this episode where we talk about the nearness of God and how it changes everything.Books mentioned in this episode:Dwell on These Things by Natalie Abbott & Vera Schmitz Rejection by Dr Henry W. WrightPhilippians 4:4-5Galatians 4:13 John 2-4

The Bible tells us to rejoice always. Always! This is a hard saying, how do live this out? Let's discuss what Paul means in Philippians (by the way he is writing this from a jail cell). Surely, Paul understands suffering. Moses didn't think he had anything to offer God after 40 years in the desert and God said to him, "What is in your hand?" Like Moses, we need to look down and see what we are holding in our hands. Books mentioned in this episode:Phillipians Dwell on These Things by Natalie Abbott & Vera SchmitsRejection: Breaking down barriers that hinder your relationships by Dr. Henry W. WrightAsk Me Anything, Lord by Heather C King

What is faith? Sometimes we overuse words and they lose their meaning. While faith is invisible, we can see it take shape. It looks like building an ark, like stepping into a lion's den and even making arrangements for your bones to enter a promised land your eyes will never see. Faith is believing in something you can't hold in your hands, it's a promise not yet beheld in the temporal, its very nature hopes in the invisible.Books mentioned in this episode:Hebrews 11Animal Stories by James HerriotCount Zinzendorf: First Fruit by Janet & Geoff Benge Dwell on These Things by Natalie Abbott & Vera Schmits

When we experience a shaking up in our lives it can feel scary and overwhelming. In this episode, we talk about the ways God can use these times of sifting. Jesus told Peter he would pray for him, not to be delivered of his trials, but to be strengthened through them. Sometimes God allows us to go through the storms. Listen as we discuss the reasons the Lord allows shaking in our lives. We can be encouraged even when our lives feel unstable. Books mentioned in the episode:The Bait of Satan by John BevereStreams in the DesertMatthew 26John 12Romans 8:14Luke 22:31-32Mark 4

Rejection is often a part of life. We didn't get the job, make the team, or receive an invite. Some of us deal with much deeper rejection perhaps by a parent, spouse, or trusted friend. How do we deal with these devastating realities? It's easy to get defensive or build up a wall of protection. If we are walking with God we have the assurance that no matter what happens in this lifetime we are accepted by Him and always have a place at the table. Books mentioned in this episode:Rejection by Dr. Henry W. WrightInstruments in the Redemer's Hands by Paul David TrippThe Bait of Satan by John Bevere Switch on Your Brain by Dr Caroline LeafRomans 8:14MatthewIsaiah 55:12Proverbs 23:7Hebrews 4:12John 6:61

When life is hard we tend to forget God's goodness. In the Bible, Samuel knew the people would need a reminder of when The Lord rescued them from trouble. The prophet selected a stone and gave it a name. Was this biblical evidence of pet rocks? I find this narrative both odd and intriguing. Join me in this episode as we talk about a stone named Ebenezer. Books mentioned in this episode: 1 Samuel Ask Me Anything, Lord by Heather C. King The Spiritual Roots of Disease by Dr. Henry W. Wright Streams in the Desert by Lettie Cowman

Have you ever felt invisible? Does it feel like nobody sees your suffering? Not even God?Hagar in Genesis felt the same way when God met her in the desert. I felt like I was reading this story with new eyes. There were some revelations for me in this Old Testament narrative. Join me as we look at God's compassion and Hagar's obedient reaction to an unexpected U-turn. Books mentioned in this episode:GenesisAsk Me Anything, Lord by Heather C. King Separation by Dr. Henry W. Wright

The Bible often refers to us as sheep, and like these skittish animals, we need a shepherd. In this week's episode, we look at James Herriot's story of an orphan lamb set in the hills of England. If you are feeling a little lost or abandoned by not only those in your life but perhaps by God himself, this true story reminds us that Jesus is the Good Shepherd. Like a farmer who knows his flock, He cares for each of us. Books in this Episode: Animal Stories by James Herriot Psalm 23 84 Charing Cross Road by Helene Hanff

Psalm 30 teaches us that after a night of weeping joy comes in the morning. For many last year was difficult and now we stand at the start of a new year. How do we have hope after prolonged trials? David teaches us in his Psalm that these hardships are temporary in the light of eternity. What can we let go of this year? Unforgiveness? Anger? Bitterness? We don't want to take hurts and disappointments into our minds and bodies where they can wreak havoc. The enemy tries to manipulate our thought life yet the word of God breaks through all the lies of this world and gives us grace to think about who we are in Christ. Books mentioned in this episode: Psalms Galatians 90 days w/ Christian Classics Exposing the Spiritual Roots of Disease by Dr. Henry Wright

This is The French Press one year anniversary, and it didn't go as planned. I found myself recording from my bed because I was in no shape to record in my usual spot (my closet). I had my notes all ready to go but was really too sick to record, yet the story I planned to talk about wouldn't leave me alone (or more likely the Holy Spirit). The whole experience reminded me of the Christmas story itself, it was not how we humans would have planned it, yet, God has his ways. *Trigger warning* the story from the 1800 does briefly touch on stillbirth but under the lens of hope and the love of God Books mentioned in this episode: Gifts of the Christ Child by George MacDonald 12 Classic Christmas Stories by Timothy Larsen 2 Corinthians

Did you know Christmas stories are considered their own genre? The repeated themes of reconciliation, forgiveness and selflessness are echoes of what Christ has done for us. The wealthy magi brought expensive gifts where the lowly shepards only brought worship and praise. No matter what you have to offer, you can bring glory to God by sharing what you have with others this Christmas season. Reference to myrrh: John 19:39 Show reference: Season 1 episode 4 "puppy train your brain" Books mentioned in this episode: Switch on Your Brain: The Key to Peak Happiness, Thinking, and Health by Caroline Leaf 12 Classic Christmas Stories by Timothy Larsen Tilly's Christmas by Louise May Alcott Christmas at Kirkby Cottage by Anthony Trollope The book of Luke

Color Drenching Your Life: Discover the transformative power of saturating your life with God's Word. Sometimes we treat our faith as a hobby when really it should be coloring every part of our lives. Join me in a cup of conversation about how to shape our lives around our beliefs and not the other way around.  Books mentioned in the episode: Practicing the Way by John Mark Comer Deuteronomy 

Moses didn't get to enter the promise land, but God had one last assignment for him before he left this earth. We don't always get the "job" we want. Moses asked God if he could go into the land with the Israelites and God said no. Has God said no to something you desperately wanted? Maybe something you have worked towards? Have you watched others walk into that very thing you asked for? What was Moses' last charge? Books mentioned on this episode:Ask Me Anything, Lord Heather C. KingPracticing the Way John Mark ComerDeuteronomy 3

Mary Shelly's Frankenstein is a classic that has stood the test of time, partially because its themes still hold true today. We will discuss the culture of the Romantic period which shaped not only Shelly's life, but also her famous novel. As Christians we can learn from the cautionary tale of Frankenstein and the life of Shelly. How far is too far? Why has God, in His wisdom placed guardrails around humanity, and what happens when we blow past them? Listen in to find out what this "monster" tale is really all about. (It's not what you think.) Books mentioned: Frankenstein by Mary Shelly Practicing The Way by John Mark Comer Book of Romans This episode was a bit of a "Frankenstein" itself I had some mic issues and as it turns out you can really hear me throwing my books around maybe some monster sound effects?

We all put our hope someplace. It's tempting to rely on man or ourselves. The Bible tells us to put our hope in Christ. As we mature in our walk with God we don't want to get stuck in sour grapes as 1st Clement (an early church father) warns us, but push through to ripe fruit. We end with a harrowing story of triumph during wartime, witnessing God work through impossible obstacles to show He is the only place we can truly anchor our hope. Books mentioned in this episode: 90 days with the Christian Classics Finding Peace through Humility by Joel Muddamalle 1st Clement https://youtu.be/KjhzJQgzU_8?si=RsNX04O6BxJvVkX8 (Hein Pham's story)

Are we willing to clear out the jungle in our hearts to make room for God? We are finishing up A Star in the Jungle and the Ecuadorian people wanted to be able to go out and tell others about Jesus, but first they needed to clear out a section of the jungle for the plane to land. It was hard work, but they were willing, not only to put the time in, but some would even give up their lives so their "cousins" could hear the Gospel. Books mentioned in this episode: Rachel Saint a star in the jungle by Janet & Geoff Benge 90 days with the Christian Classics Acts 28

Do you ever think of yourself as a translator? As Christians it is our mission to reveal God's love and mysteries to a lost world. Just like Rachel Saint made it her life's goal to translate the Bible to a tribe in Ecuadore we are to communicate the Gospel to those in our mission field. What if the Lord asks you to be a poured-out offering? Books mentioned in this episode: A Star in the Jungle by Geoff & Janet Benge Strength through Humility by Joel Muddamalle The story of Gideon found in Judges 90 days with the Christian Classics

Do you find yourself running late? Or maybe you can make it on time to places but you find yourself running behind spiritually? Do you feel like you should be further ahead or of learned that lesson already? We will look at the life of Peter and see that God meets us where we are running behind and pushes us ahead. Books mentioned in this episode: Ask Me Anything, Lord by Heather C. King Last of the Mohicans by James Fenimore Cooper Rachel Saint: A Star in the Jungle by Janet & Geoff Benge 90 days with the Christian Classics

Life is just the dash between our birth and death. What will we do with it? Are we will to be poured out for the Lord and others? Are we willing show agape type love to others (although imperfectly) are we willing to be hurt in the process? Or will we build up a wall of protection and keep others out because they might hurt us? Jesus spent His life so we could have life eternal. The apostles were willing to face rejection and hurt to serve God and others .. will we? Books mentioned in this episode:Starting Today Rubel Shelly Bait of Satan John Bevere Ask Me Anything Lord Heather King

We all have a nook of shame where we relocate all our random stuff that we don't want anyone else to see. Instead of sorting and purging we store and hide. Yet God wants us to bring to light the junk we keep hidden in our hearts so we can heal and help others. Our sufferings. Our shame. Our brokenness. God can use it all to draw others to Him and we are the imperfect vessels if we are willing to use all the nooks of our life for His glory.Books mentioned in this episode:Finding Peace Through Humility Joel MuddamalleInstruments In The Redeemer's Hands Paul David Trip Ask Me Anything, Lord Heather C. King The Bait of Satan John Bevere

The Bible tells us that the "gold" we are to seek is that which has gone through fire. Why? Because it has been refined, made pure and softend. When we walk through trials we are molded into Ambassadors of Christ. The dross is burned out and the Lord is able to use in ways we weren't capable of before. Sin, bitterness, anger, offence hardened us from hearing from the Lord. It's a hard way to look at suffering yet offers so much hope. Books mentioned in this episode: Insterments In The Redemers Hands Paul David Trip Hans Brinker or The Silver Skates Mary Mopes Dodge Bait of Satan John Bevere

When we feel hunger pangs do we reach for what is best to nourish our bodies or what is most convenient or perhaps even something not good for us. Spiritually, we want to eat of the fruit of the Spirit. The world offers us immediate gratification or a quick sugar rush, yet our souls crave something deeper. In this episode we talk about what we desire and the freedom (yes freedom) of self control.

In this episode we learn more about 17th century Holland from the children's classic Hans Brinker. Have you heard of tulip mania? As humans we so often chase after earthly rewards instead of heavenly. In Numbers we see how God took Aaron's rod and had it miraculously produce blossom and even almonds. Where in our lives is the Lord producing fruit? This is our testimony to His goodness. And finally I introduce a new book An Instrument in the Redeemer’s Hands where we examine our hearts from which our words and actions flow.

Pruning can seem like a harsh and even violent act to those who don't understand what the gardener knows - that pruning, sometimes aggressively, is necessary for the plant to yield fruit. It seems counterintuitive, but removing even flowering branches can build up the plant stronger and healthier than it was before. John 15 tells us that God is the gardener of our lives and we must abide in Him to become more like Christ. In this episode we will take a look at Hans Brinker or The Silver Skates and how his dilemma relates to the choices we face, and in Laura Story's book, When God Doesn't Fix it, how surrendering our dreams may just guide us to real growth. You can also read about how we can find joy in the little things (even a piece of fruit) in this blog post I mention in the episode: https://thedemitassedrafts.com/blog-1/2023/12/6/have-a-very-orange-christmas

Are you afraid to make mistakes? Do you find yourself saving things so you can keep them nice? I have a box of unused journals in storage. Yet, what does the Lord ask us to do with our gifts and talents, with our knowledge, with our very lives? Use them!

Jesus says that He is the bread of life. We often want to find answers and satisfaction in other places ... although these things may fill us temporarily, Jesus is the only lasting answer. This is a hard saying that even the disciples struggled with at times, yet Peter said "To whom shall we go? You have the words to eternal life?" I think of his words often when I'm struggling and want to run to other things besides the Lord ...

John the Baptist, referring to Jesus, said, "He must increase, but I must decrease." This is an unpopular concept today. You don't often see tee-shirts and journals with this emblazoned on the front. As Christians, we want to glorify God and not ourselves. In this episode, we look at a man who started a movement and talk about what to do when God doesn't fix our problems. John's words are a great reminder as we journey through life that we want more of God and less of us.