Over six weeks, we are studying one verse per day and memorizing one of them each week, but the study isn’t just about learning verses; it’s about context: What was the inspired writer going through? What purpose did he hope to convey? How is this verse applicable to me?

I’m always amazed when various sources point me toward similar thoughts about how to represent my faith in Jesus Christ in a chaotic...

At a recent event, someone asked me how I came up with the name “Reflections” for the thoughts that find their way to this space. After...

I’m starting a new First5 Bible study, “30 Bible Verses Every Christian Should Know.” It includes not just the verses themselves, but the...

Being online eliminates the filters of civil in-person society, and rude comments are often unleashed on anyone who chooses to differ from a posted opinion.

The past few weeks, I’ve seen plenty of reminders about back-to-school, especially since my husband is a teacher. I’ve particularly...

This week’s “Reflections” is by Pastor Liz Wright. She serves as Connections Pastor at Central Assembly of God in Springfield, where she...

My cat, Dexter, frequently finds his way into my writing, and based on the number of people interacting with comments and photos on the...

Sometimes it seems as though several sources combine in my personal journey to drive home a point. Maybe I’m slow to understand—or...

Thank you to my friends who happen to be named Martha—three or four of you—for perspective over the years about having that name. In...

That hanging uncertainty leaves me wondering if Jonah missed out on a discipleship opportunity.

Heartbreaking reports from the Texas flooding, combined with world news, local reports of accidents, and a friend’s health taking a final...

It’s always amazing to reflect on the continued relevance of the Bible to current events and to my life. While returning home after...

He ran from God? Really? As a prophet in Israel, Jonah was likely familiar with the ongoing story from Creation to Abraham to God’s active intervention in Israel’s history with both obedient and disobedient kings.

In studying Hosea’s prophecy, I saw a recurring theme of Israel’s failure to acknowledge God’s presence and provision. They had chosen...

Walk into any faith-based retail environment, and you’re sure to see a coffee mug or wall décor featuring, “I can do all things through...

The damage was minor, but guess what—I had to pay Dad back for the insurance deductible, leaving me zero money to spend on clothes...

Monday, May 26, was Memorial Day, with remembrance ceremonies held locally across the United States varying from parades to simple...

Are negative-sounding words used in the Bible always negative in meaning or application? I’ve encountered people new to faith or...

The current First5 Bible study is in the Old Testament book of Hosea, and as often happens, the study topics and discussion coincide with...