SPIRITUAL SPARKLE
Finding Joy in Our Trials
Have you ever experienced a really tough trial in your life – the kind that feels like there is no way out, no hope, and not even a glimmer of light at the end of it? Most of us have …
The Futility of Worldly Pursuits
Do you remember the feeling you experienced when you finally finished a big project or accomplished a monumental goal you worked hard to achieve? It felt so satisfying, didn’t it? You may also remember that feeling didn’t last long. At …
God’s Created Order for the Pulpit
It was a beautiful Sunday morning – a perfect day to spend at church giving gratitude to the Lord in worship, listening to solid preaching, and fellowshipping with many dear friends. Our pastor teaches directly from the Bible, verse by …
Are You Friends with the World?
A quick scroll through social media and it’s easy to see so many who are seeking friendship with the world. Photos plastered of the nightlife scene, self-indulgent luxury vacations, videos posted of arms and voices raised in worship of favorite …
Biblical Literacy Through a Renewed Mind
Have you ever tried learning a new language? I took a few years of Spanish in high school but because I never practiced speaking it much after graduating, I have forgotten most of it. Friends of mine who speak Spanish …
The Creator of the Universe is Mindful of You
Have you ever been far away from the bright lights of the city where you could spread out a blanket, lie on your back, and look up at the infinite number of twinkling stars above you? Living in the big city …
Examine the Scriptures Like a Berean
During the 1970s, our family attended a wonderful, God-honoring church called Berean Bible in Spokane, Washington. We worshipped the Lord together on Sunday mornings and I was also there on Wednesday nights for their AWANA (Approved Workmen Are Not Ashamed) …
Zeal that Bubbles Over
Have you ever met someone who is extremely passionate about what they do? I remember a few teachers during my elementary and jr. high school days who poured themselves into their students, going the extra mile to make the class …
A Biblical View of Breathwork
For years, I have attended fitness conferences to stay updated on all the latest research and trends in my industry. More and more, I am noticing the influence of Eastern practices in the classes and certifications offered. From every form …
Solid Food for Spiritual Discernment
It was a beautiful spring day for a walk at the Arboretum, my happy place, surrounded by God’s amazing creativity in both color and detail with the endless varieties of flowers and plants. I love learning about nature and enjoy …
A Heart that is Fully Committed
My client walked into the fitness center, ready to begin her workout. I led her over to the treadmill to get her muscles warmed up. We stretched on a supersized mat and then headed toward the weight machines. Not long …
Spiritual Dangers of Reducing Stress through Eastern Methods
Have you ever been under a lot of pressure, experienced a major change in your life, were worried about something out of your control, or felt overwhelmed with responsibilities? If so, you know what it’s like to experience stress. For …
Boast in the Lord
I was sitting in on a personal trainers’ meeting, listening to a slick, fast-talking salesman tell us the best ways to increase sales for ourselves and for the gym where we worked. All I remember from that meeting was how …
Our Citizenship is in Heaven
It was a warm, sunny day with beautiful blue skies. I couldn’t think of a better place to be than outdoors in nature at our nearby Arboretum and Botanical Garden. A quick look around and it was easy to see …
Train for Godliness
She was there every morning sitting in her comfy living room chair with a cup of piping hot coffee and her well-worn Bible open in her lap. Oh, how my mother loved her quiet time with the Lord! I was …