Category Archives: spiritual growth

Craving Ice Cream . . . and the Word of God

Posted on January 26, 2025 by Heart of the Matter

  I’ve attempted many different diets in my life and have not been very successful on any of them. I’d lose a few pounds here and there but before long, my cravings would kick in—cravings for comfort foods like mashed … Continue reading →

Posted in purpose, Salvation, Spiritual Encouragement, spiritual growth | Tagged , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

10 Suggestions for Spiritually Focused New Year’s Resolutions

Posted on January 6, 2025 by Heart of the Matter

Well, it’s the new year and time for resolutions. Bummer. You see, I have a very bad record of keeping resolutions. I’ve tried to eat better, exercise more, and generally be more disciplined, only to fall off the wagon within … Continue reading →

Posted in Holidays, Salvation, Service, spiritual growth | Tagged , , , , | Leave a comment

Shattered Treasures, Open Hands

Posted on November 17, 2024 by Heart of the Matter

  A loud –crash– echoed from the other room, interrupting my kitchen duties that morning. Seconds before, I’d been enjoying the raucous laughter of two of my kids as they bounded down the stairs, one in pursuit of the other. … Continue reading →

Posted in Christianity, Grandparenting, Parenting, Spiritual Encouragement, spiritual growth | Tagged , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

Christian Liberty: What does it mean?

Posted on October 26, 2024 by Heart of the Matter

        I was raised Southern Baptist, not the strict fundamentalist kind of Baptist, but the “drinking and tattoos are sinful” kind. Our church didn’t ascribe to as many rules as some Baptist churches did. My parents, faithful … Continue reading →

Posted in Christianity, Church Life, Parenting, Salvation, spiritual growth | Tagged , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Never Too Old!

Posted on August 8, 2024 by Heart of the Matter

  A few years ago, my children gave me a pickleball paddle for Christmas. I was so excited. I had recently noticed some people my age playing the sport as I strolled by a local court and had mentioned to … Continue reading →

Posted in purpose, Spiritual Encouragement, spiritual growth, Thankfulness | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment