We are given an incredible privilege to work in partnership with God. This is one of the reasons He invites us to intercede for others. He is not asking us to advise Him with our prayers, but to be like a hose in his hand that He
“For we are God’s partners…” 1Co.3.9 “Conversations Within” ts 2/4/26
Why should I insist that people move at the same pace, or be on the same page where God is concerned? God has done nothing but help me move through my doubts into faith. We must give room for our doubts, and the doubts of others. God certainly and patiently does.
“And have mercy on those who doubt.” Jude “Conversations Within” ts 2/3/
God’s love is far greater than I understand. I cannot touch bottom in the ocean of His grace, mercy, and kindness toward me, even when I take Him for granted. Father, help this prodigal child to love You more.
“But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him.” Jesus “Conversations Within” ts 2/2/26
Jesus wants to lead me down the path of lasting joy, but I often choose passing pleasures. I am too easily drawn to scroll the latest gossip on the news, or social media. I can attest that my day is filled with joy when I silence the shallow noise of the world, and listen to snowflakes falling.
“I tell you these things so that you may have my joy and that your joy may be made full.” Jesus Conversations Within” ts 2/1/
The direction that we travel on our journey matters greatly. Hopefully we move from darkness to light, not the other way around. Walk towards the light of God’s love, and don’t forget to let your light shine on the path so others can follow.
"For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light."
Looking after the interest of my neighbor is more than just a “feel good” suggestion; it is the best way for everyone to prosper. The law which protects our right to property is a mere shadow of the law, which directs us to share and look out for each other.
“The whole Law is fulfilled in the singular command to love.” Jesus Conversations Within” ts 1/28/
If anything is abundantly clear, there is no footing found if we try to pass judgment on God. He offers no explanation for what He does. He answers to no one but Himself, and praise God for that. That the Lord is good, is all I need to know.
“Shall a faultfinder contend with the Almighty? He who argues with God, let him answer it.” Job 40.2 “Conversations Within” ts 1/27/
The energy that a righteous person puts into their prayers will get it done. Praying is not our last resort but our first. When we see a need, we can powerfully address it in partnership with God. At times He will ask us to put it in His hands. At other times, He may use our hands to answer, but it always starts with prayer,
“The effective prayer of a
The fight against evil is first spiritual, fought with spiritual weapons. The most powerful in the arsenal of the child of God is named “All Prayer” in Pilgrim's Progress. Wage war on your knees in the war room of your prayer closet.
“For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places.” Eph.6.12 “Conversations Within” ts 1/25/
When I am tempted to doubt whether my puny existence matters to God, or the daily concerns I bring to Him, the words of Jesus erase all doubt.
"Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered.” Jesus “Conversations Within” ts 1/24/26
Listen to people, really listen if you want to help. Rather than giving an answer, perhaps it would be wiser to ask questions. Understand first. Get the facts before giving an answer. The wisdom of God encourages us to be quick to listen and slow to speak.
“If one gives an answer before he hears, it is his folly and shame.” Prov.18.13 “Conversations Within” ts 1/23/
A mature inner life will possess the soul with a patient peace. This is because a well nurtured soul knows who is ultimately in control.
“Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.” “Conversations Within” ts 1/21/
I pray that love will be the governing dynamic of my journey. I want every thought; every single thought; every word; and every action to flow from, and out of love's energy. I covet the love of God expressed in Jesus, the love that blesses everyone with goodness. Here is heaven's song, a song worth singing.
“God is
Jesus often went out to quiet places away from people to pray. His example highlights the value of creating a quiet time in a quiet place, in order to talk and listen to God. I am humbled that every time I have sought God, I have found Him waiting for me. Make an appointment with Him.
“Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and
Anxiety can be a good reminder, if we use it this way, that we are trying to carry something that God never intended for us to carry. Put it back in His hands and leave it there,
“Cast all your care on Him because He cares for
If I could wrap my head around the vastness of the Universe I might begin to understand just how much our Father in Heaven loves each of us. We could say that in Heaven’s dictionary next to the words "infinite love" is a picture of Christ, arms spread out on the cross, saying "This is how much I love you!"
“And I pray that you, may… grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ…
I find great encouragement when I think about all the people in Heaven praying for us. Their prayers rise like sweet incense in that place where the rising of the sun is not a measure of time. Heaven sends down blessings everyday, and when we do not know how or what to pray, the host of Heaven prays with and for us.
“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses,...let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us,” Heb.12.1 “Conversations Within” ts 1/16/26
If I become better, the world becomes better. Begin healing the world by first healing your own heart. It always has to begin with oneself.
“Son of man, let all my words sink deep into your own heart first. Listen to them carefully for yourself.” Ez.3.10 “Conversations Within” ts 1/
There is one attitude we can adopt that will help us nurture with ease, the proper attitude in every situation. Nurture a gentle and humble heart. As a horse bows to the will of its rider, so too we gently accept where God leads us each day, knowing that He will provide everything for it.
“Let this attitude be in you that was also in Christ Jesus…” Phil.2 “Conversations Within” ts 1/14/
I received a note from Google telling me some of my reviews were being viewed. I looked to see one I had submitted. In anger I had given a fast food restaurant a really bad review. I wish I could take it back, but I can’t. It serves as a good reminder for me to watch my mouth.
“Those who guard their lips preserve their
I naturally want people to read and find value in what I write. My chances they will, will greatly increase by simply using fewer words. Many good messages are never heard simply because they wear you out in
“A truly wise person uses few words.” Prov.17.27 “Conversations Within” ts 1/18/26
I decided to make a list of everything I don’t like about myself. With God’s help, I want to change for the better. The plan is to make these changes one small choice at a time. I am sure an opportunity will occur several times today. Choose only joy!
“Live wisely, making the most of your time and being careful how you walk, not being foolish.” Eph. 5:
When I make peace with the fact that Christ will never allow me to be at peace with my anger, lust, or pride, it will be one of the steps I can make toward true and lasting peace.
“The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever.” 1Jo.2.17 Conversations Within” ts 1/11/26
Think of someone you are tempted to hate. Now whisper a prayer for them. Call on God, not to curse them, but to bless them. If possible do something good for them, if it is only to keep them in your prayers every day until absolute goodness overtakes them. Here is the way of love, the way of Jesus. Walk in it.
“But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you.” Jesus Conversations
Do you hear it? Do you hear His gentle voice calling you to rest, to forgive, to let go and trust? Do you hear His heart of compassion, to let go of hatred, and put your hope in goodness? Do you hear Jesus speaking in your soul?
“My sheep hear my voice…” Jesus Conversations Within” ts 1/9/26
I do not pretend to understand everything that Jesus taught, but several things are clear enough. One, is that sin is a serious matter. Second, Jesus believed in hell, and it would be wise for me to believe it too. Third, is that I should get serious about dealing with my sins by turning from them, and turning in faith to Him.
“And if your right hand causes you to sin, cut it off and throw it away. For it is better that you lose one of your members than that your whole body go into
If I am an expert at anything, let me excel at loving people. I want to encourage the people around me. I want to build them up, and come alongside them with beneficial actions. I want to bring love’s energy into every conversation, and everything I put my hand to do.
“That you excel still more.” 1Thess.4 “Conversations Within” ts 1/5/26
Many in our generation profess Jesus but do not know or follow His teachings. One reason is we pick and choose which of His teachings to follow and which to ignore. If I claim to be His follower let me at least embrace His worldview. I should take care to follow Jesus as He is, not how I make Him out to be.
“Whoever has my commands and keeps them is the
We live in a passing season, one where God allows people the freedom to make choices contrary to His will. Love can only exist in freedom. But true and lasting freedom can only exist in submission to God's will. In our present state the idea of submission leaves a bad taste in our mouth. Heaven is indeed, an “acquired taste.”
“May Your will be done on earth as it is in Heaven.” Jesus “Conversations Within” ts 1/3/26
Do not try to look good, but rather do good. Add value to others without calling attention to yourself. Put your energy into building others up, not into building an image about how good and generous you are. "Do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing."
“So when you give to the needy, do not announce it with trumpets, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and on the streets, to be honored by others.” Jesus “Conversations Within” ts 1/3/26
Rise everyday and look for ways to bring value to others. This is the glory of a life well lived. Adding value to others is the joy Jesus promises to those who would follow Him. Choose joy! Choose it in everything you think, say and do.
“Well done, good and faithful servant…Enter into the joy of your Lord.” Jesus “Conversations Within” ts 12/30/
To choose to love will sometimes mean that we choose to be hurt by another, and then to overlook it. Love bears all things, and sometimes does so in silence.
“Love… does not seek its own…” 1Cor.13 “Conversations Within” ts 1/2/26
One harsh reality that I need to face is that life is not always “what it is,” but it is what I have made it. Never discount personal responsibility.
“Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows.” Gal.6.7 “Conversations Within” ts 12/31/25
A commitment to unity is not the same as a commitment to uniformity. The goal is not to see and do everything the same as others. The goal is to agree on what is truly good for us all, and to settle for nothing less than achieving it. Learn to appreciate different points of view.
“How can two walk together unless they agree?” Amos 3.3 “Conversations Within” ts 12/30/
PIPPIN: I didn't think it would end this way. GANDALF: End? No, the journey doesn't end here. Death is just another path, one that we all must take. The grey rain-curtain of this world rolls back, and all turns to silver glass, and then you see it.PIPPIN: What? Gandalf? See what?GANDALF: White shores, and beyond, a far green country under a swift sunrise.
“I am the resurrection and the life…” Jesus “Conversations Within” ts 12/29/25
Sometimes the most important thing we can do is simply endure. Get back up and keep going. It is when we don't feel like staying with it, that it is most important that we do.
“suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope" Rom.5. “Conversations Within” ts 12/27/25
If we are honest, the truth is many times, we simply don’t know why God does what He does, and He, at least for the present, does not choose to explain to us why. What is there, but to trust His better judgment.
"Oh, the depth of the
