At one time in my life, I was surrounded by many social and economic issues. I was stressed day and night, and it was quite unbearable. When I tried to handle...

The buzz of chainsaws and the roar of wood-chipping equipment filled my ears as I slowed my car to a halt. A work crew was lopping off big limbs of trees...

At the start of my freshman year of high school, I was one of about 60 boys trying out for the basketball team. Only 20 players would be chosen. I was...

Several years ago, I experienced a deep hurt caused by a close friend’s betrayal. The pain was intense, and I struggled to find a way forward. In moments of despair, I...

I once saw a woman with a tattoo on her wrist that simply said, “Enough.” Although I wondered what it meant to her, I didn’t give it much more thought. After...

A mountain of debts had piled up, and anxiety and worry consumed me. I worked hard at every job I was offered, but still it wasn’t enough. One night, exhausted by...

My study Bible is filled with neatly underlined scripture passages, circled cross-references, and handwritten notes in the margins. Interrupting these structured annotations are stray scribbles in red marker. I suspect my...

I studied the slender branch in our garden. My father-in-law had taken the cutting from his parents’ blackberry bush and replanted it in our tiny garden. I anticipated sharing juicy berries...

As I sat by the window, raindrops splattered against the glass. The storm outside mirrored the chaos I felt inside. Uncertainty, fear, and doubt engulfed me. I turned to the Bible,...

Growing up, I was never very close with God. I attended church with my family, but I felt I sinned too much for God to love me. Feeling as if I...