Far From Home: Aliens and Strangers in a Foreign Land

Posted on August 3, 2025 by Heart of the Matter

My husband and I recently returned from a trip to Paris, France. The trip was funded by my husband’s company, in recognition of his hard work. It was a dream come true for this girl who took French in both high school and college and never thought I would make it to France.

Before we left, I met up with a French teacher friend of mine and brushed up on some essential French phrases I might need for the trip. Phrases like, Ou sont les toilettes? (Where are the restrooms?), Une carafe d’eau, sil vous plait (a carafe of tap water, please), and Je voudrais un café crème (I’ll have a latte), among others.

I had planned our itinerary, purchased tickets, and studied up on some of the places we would visit. I felt prepared, but a little nervous about being immersed in a culture so different than our own. Armed with my pickpocket-proof crossbody purse, my Tylenol PM for the flight, and my “Google translate” app, we boarded the plane and headed across the pond to Europe.

In France I was an outsider. I didn’t know the customs, the language (despite my limited academic repertoire), or the proper etiquette. For instance, waiters in France take your order then leave you alone to enjoy the meal with your friends and family. They see it as an intrusion to come repeatedly to your table to check on you. Here in America, we’ll withhold the tip if our waiter doesn’t keep our tea glass filled!

Another noticeable difference is the lack of lighthearted greetings by the French to passersby. Don’t expect smiles and nods from French people as you pass them on the sidewalk. It’s just not done in France. This is starkly different from American Southern culture, for sure.

Funny enough (given the lack of friendliness on the street), you are expected to greet shop owners and waiters with a “Bonjour” upon entering or you are considered rude.

 Due to the cultural differences, etiquette disparities, and communications difficulties, I never felt totally comfortable there. I did my best to fit in (including speaking more quietly in the cafes and restaurants. French people think Americans are generally too loud), but it was evident that France wasn’t my home. I enjoyed our time but after a while, longed for the familiarity of my own culture.

It’s much the same for believers on this earth. We feel a tug for our real home—heaven. We have a sense that we don’t totally fit in here. In addition to that, the Bible tells us we don’t belong here—that our stay is only temporary.

“For this world is not our permanent home; we are looking forward to a home yet to come.” Hebrews 13:14 (NLT)

“Dear friends, I urge you as foreigners and strangers to abstain from fleshly lusts, which wage war against the soul.” 1 Peter 2:11 (NASB)

“In my Father’s house are many rooms; if that were not so, I would have told you, because I am going there to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I am coming again and will take you to myself, so that where I am, there you also will be.” John 14:2-3 (NASB)

As the world and our American culture drift further from Christian ideals and principles, we feel even more distant—more disconnected. Especially if we’re sticking to our guns and living out the godly principles we’re called to live out. In today’s world, the goal for believers is to not fit in. The Bible tells us we are to be holy, set apart for God’s use (1 Peter 1:15-16). In other words, it’s normal and right that believers feel a restlessness and a longing for their true heavenly home.

In fact, I’ve had days where I prayed that Jesus would come sooner rather than later, haven’t you? That’s because God placed within us a “find my home” spiritual microchip drawing us to him and to our heavenly home (hope I didn’t creep some of you out with that end-times-ish tech analogy).

Only God knows when he’ll call each of us home, or when Jesus will return in glory. Until then, we live as strangers, looking forward to our true home, but keeping the faith. As we wait, we continue to share God’s love and the lifesaving gospel of Jesus Christ with the world around us.

Au revoir, mes amis! Bonne journee!

Posted in purpose, Spiritual Encouragement, spiritual growth, Thankfulness | Tagged , , | 1 Comment

Christians Need to Keep the Main thing . . . the Main Thing.

Posted on July 9, 2025 by Heart of the Matter

 

There are so many distractions for believers in the world today—things that take our focus away from God and his Kingdom work—diverting us from personal spiritual growth and sidetracking our pursuit of holiness. One of those distractions is the ever-contentious arena of politics. We all know people (even believers) who eat, sleep, and breathe politics. They dogmatically espouse their opinions to all who will listen. They stir up arguments on social media and say things to their “friends” that bear little resemblance to Jesus’ model of love and kindness.

The problem is, while we’re checking Facebook every day to see who we’ve inflamed with our latest political diatribe (wringing our hands in gleeful anticipation of the fight to come), there is work to be done for the kingdom:

  • Help is desperately needed at the church food pantry.
  • Someone on the street corner needs to hear the gospel.
  • Our seat at church, where we learn about God in community, is conspicuously empty.
  • We haven’t opened our Bible in months.
  • We’ve drifted away from our family, the family for whom we’re supposed to be the spiritual head.
  • Volunteers are needed in the children’s Sunday school department.
  • Families in our community are desperate for help after a recent storm or other natural disaster.

 Our mission as believers is to glorify God and make him known to the lost world. To share the gospel. To love people to Jesus. To use our giftedness within the church body. To study and meditate on God’s Word so that we can get to know who God is. To develop our relationship with Jesus through prayer, meditation, and Bible reading.

When we allow ourselves to be distracted by the noise of the world, we cannot accomplish the mission to which God has called us. Satan would keep us busy ranting about political leaders rather than being about God’s business. He would have us believe that those who disagree with us need to be put in their place—and we’re the one to do it. He would keep us preoccupied by worldly pursuits and pastimes—putting our spiritual growth on the back burner.

Make no mistake, I firmly believe that Christians must make their voices heard and stand up for biblical values. In fact, it’s the responsibility of every Christian citizen in America to cast their vote according to the precepts in God’s Word—maybe even to hold a sign or attend a meeting on a local issue that affects us.  But politics shouldn’t dominate our every waking moment. And we certainly shouldn’t publicly spar with folks who disagree with us. We aren’t going to solve the world’s problems by alienating those we’re called to love.

“This is my commandment, that you love one another, just as I have loved you.” John 15:12 (NASB)

There are many other things that distract believers, of course. Things such as: chasing material wealth, pursuing the perfect body, obsessing over celebrities and entertainment, spending hours on social media and idolizing its influencers.

In this world full of distractions and noise, believers must keep the main thing, the main thing. The Bible says we’re to fix our eyes on Jesus as we navigate this life, nothing is more important. There are people every day who are dying without Jesus while we’re camped out in front of our television, trancelike, watching the news stations repeat the same news over and over again.

“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.” Hebrews 12:1-2 (NIV, emphasis mine)

If you’ve been caught up in politics, or another distraction has prevented you from fixing your eyes on Jesus, it’s time to make a change. Seek the Lord in prayer for strength to break away from whatever is holding you captive. Ask him where you’re needed in his kingdom work. Get back to church. Open your Bible. Look for places to spiritually grow, in community. Find a place to serve in your local church.

Don’t worry too much about the political scene. God is in control. Whoever is in charge of  our country, God has allowed to be there. He has a plan, and it is far above the plans of man. I want to be a part of  God’s plan, don’t you? I want to be on God’s team, and I want him to find me faithfully serving when he returns.

Heaven forbid, when Jesus comes back, he finds me in a political rant, stirring up trouble on social media. Instead, I want to be about his kingdom work: loving, serving, giving, and sharing his life-changing message.

“Go, therefore, and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to follow all that I commanded you; and behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age” Matthew 28:19-20 (NASB)

Posted in Spiritual Encouragement | Leave a comment

The Grand Surprise

Posted on July 3, 2025 by Heart of the Matter

Motherhood was a joy to me;

fulfilling,

inspiring,

tiring,

all the things.

Grandparenthood is astounding;

breathtaking,

surprising,

remarkable,

all the things—and more.

There’s a surprise waiting after the heartache of the empty nest.

Little feet running through the house once again.

Little eyes watching you mix a batch of cookies and asking to help.

Little hands planting flowers by your side.

Little minds eager to learn what you have to teach.

Who knew this treasure awaited in the golden years, making them golden indeed.

 

 

Posted in Spiritual Encouragement | 1 Comment

Heavenly-Minded or Earthly-Obsessed: Get on Board With God’s Agenda

Posted on May 20, 2025 by Heart of the Matter

I love to read. In my home, I have an entire wall of bookshelves packed with books, most of which I’ve already read at least once. My nightstand always holds a book or two and I have several more in the queue. I enjoy reading before bed, reading in the car (when I’m not driving, of course), and reading while soaking in the tub. I admit, my love of books borders on obsession.

Obsession is defined as: Something that occupies our mind or intrudes on our thoughts; A preoccupation with a person, idea or hobby.

People have all sorts of obsessions today: exercise, sports, social media, politics, golf, television, books, and many others. Whatever our obsession, we can’t imagine life without it. If we miss a day or two, we long for the opportunity to engage once again in our compulsion. An obsession is something we talk about, think about, and even dream about. But for several reasons, obsession can become a serious problem.

First of all, obsessions disrupt family relationships. People obsessed with work, scurry like a hamster on a wheel trying to land a six-figure salary, while their family is left on the back burner. Those obsessed with exercise, are often so self-focused they become not only physically, but emotionally distant from those they love. For some, exercise becomes a pseudo-religion. Inserting yourself into other people’s problems can become an obsession. I’ve known those who are so engrossed in searching out problems (other people’s problems) to solve or issues to champion, that their own children and spouse are left to fend for themselves.

 Obsession not only tears families apart, but it takes us away from God’s plan and purpose for our lives. It dilutes our effectiveness for the kingdom. If this idea of obsession sounds vaguely familiar, it should, especially if you’ve spent much time in the Word. In scripture, it’s referred to as, idolatry, which is anything we prioritize above God.

What is our purpose as Christ-followers?

The goal for every believer is:  To know and love God and to make him known to the lost world. Satan loves obsession because it pulls us away from this primary mission.

Am I saying Christians should engage only in overtly spiritual activities?  Surely God doesn’t expect us to sit and read our Bible all day long, does He? In our everyday lives we must go to work, shop for groceries, go to the dentist, and clean our house, right? Absolutely, we must. That’s life. But remember, the world is a mission field, and we are themissionaries. In other words, we must look for opportunities in our day to love and serve people—to engage with the lost world—to share the message of Jesus. In fact, Christians are the hands and feet of Jesus to this world.

 

Can someone be too heavenly minded?

It’s been said, one can be too heavenly minded to be any earthly good. But don’t be fooled. The most effective Christians are completely heavenly minded—obsessed only with loving and serving others, knowing God more deeply, walking in obedience to the Word, and sharing the life-changing gospel of Jesus Christ. Being heavenly-minded is good!

We’re heavenly minded when take a friend who’s lost their spouse to lunch, and comfort them. We’re heavenly minded when we spend a morning at the food pantry helping to stock shelves. We’re heavenly minded when we exhibit grace at our workplace so that others will be drawn to Christ. We’re heavenly-minded when we use our gifts and talents for God’s purposes. We’re heavenly minded when we cook a meal for a sick friend or clean up a widow’s yard after a storm. We’re heavenly minded when we lovingly care for our husband and children. We’re heavenly minded when we work hard at our job with a good attitude and reflect the attributes of Jesus.

The Christian life is not a part-time job

If you find you only think about spiritual things on Sundays, perhaps it’s time to up your game. Begin to think spiritually throughout the week. Be intentional. Start your day by asking God to help you see the needs around you and to give you the boldness to act. Pray for opportunities to share the gospel. Pray for God to help you find time in the Word for study and reflection. Lead your family in reading the Bible, praying, and memorizing scripture. The Christian life is much more than simply attending church on Sunday.

Lest you think I’m against hobbies, I’m not. Hobbies are a fun part of life and can provide moments for spiritual conversation. For instance, playing golf with a friend may be a great opportunity to share Christ with him. While you’re at the gym, you can find a way to practically serve one of your regular gym buddies. You can pray with your running group before you head out on your morning run. God gave us many things in this world to enjoy and we should take advantage of them. It’s when a hobby becomes an obsession—an idol—leaving no time or space for the things of God, that it becomes a problem.

All believers, including myself, could be more focused on the mission of knowing God and making Him known. There’s nothing more important. Join me as I pray for guidance, review my priorities, examine my routines, and determine if anything in my life has become an idol. Then, let’s ask God to reveal our areas of weakness so we can make the necessary changes.

God will always make a way for those who desire to be more spiritually in tune with Him. Believers have the Holy Spirit to help us overcome our obsessions and redirect our priorities—no need to rely on our own strength. As we faithfully join God on His kingdom mission, we’ll no doubt witness the fruit of lives changed and experience joy, peace and purpose like we’ve never known. Let’s get with God’s program today!

Posted in Christianity, Church Life, purpose, Service, spiritual growth | Tagged , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Steady Faith That Doesn’t Burn Out

Posted on March 22, 2025 by Heart of the Matter

Some years ago, I decided to join a gym. I knew I needed to improve my health and lose a few pounds, so I drove to a new workout place only a mile from my home. There, I was given a tour and signed on the dotted line. This gym had all the bells and whistles, from state-of-the-art machines to a nursery area for my toddler. There was even a movie theater where you could watch a movie while you cycled on an exercise bike, imagine that.

My Inevitable Gym Burnout

I was really excited at first, as I packed up my daughter each morning, anticipating the post-workout euphoria. I worked out hard on the equipment and free weights, really giving it my all. I was so proud of myself as I left the building each day drenched in sweat.

 As time went on, it became harder and harder to wake up early, pack up, and haul my tired self to the gym. Some days I didn’t feel like going so. . . I didn’t. Before long, I was down to 2 days a week and eventually, only when I felt like it (which was hardly ever). My initial enthusiasm for working out slowly faded into oblivion.

Experiencing Faith Burnout

Just like my sad foray into gym-life, and subsequent failure, people can lose enthusiasm for their Christian faith. For example, when we first come to know the Lord, we’re so excited. We can’t wait to go to church and raise our hands in praise with our new church friends. We tell everyone we meet about our brand-new faith in Jesus. We dig into the Word with an intensity and regularity that puts many long-time Christians to shame. We join a Bible study, attend a small group, and serve enthusiastically in the church kitchen. It seems we’re walking on air.

 Soon, unforeseen trials, fatigue, or the pull of sin, wear us down. Eventually, we stop reading the Word and going to church. We fall back into habits we thought we’d left behind. Why does this happen? Was our faith experience not real? Was it just a flash in the pan?

 Believers can burn out for many different reasons. Perhaps, God didn’t answer our prayers quickly, or we lost the excitement we had at first. Maybe we thought life would get easier after we came to Christ and it just didn’t. Sometimes non-Christian friends draw us back into our old life. It may be that people we looked up to in the church let us down in some way. Christians don’t always act right and that can be discouraging for new believers as they’re let down and disappointed by people they admire.

The Christian Life is not all Roses and Rainbows

Life isn’t easy for any of us. We all experience things like sickness, family problems, job loss, the death of family members, and other trials. We live in a sinful, fallen world and things happen. The good news is, when believers face difficulties, God uses all of it to make us more like Him. Our trials and hardships don’t go to waste. One day we’ll be fully perfected, when Jesus comes again. But for now, we’re a work in progress.

“In this you greatly rejoice, even though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been distressed by various trials, so that proof of your faith, being more precious than gold which perishes though tested by fire, may be found to result in praise, glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ. . .” 1 Peter 1:6-7 (NASB)

 None of us can exist on a perpetual spiritual high, like we may have felt when we first came to Christ. Therefore, our goal as believers is to build a steady faith that lasts—one that won’t burn out and is not dependent on our feelings or on other people. How can we develop that enduring faith? Here are some tips:

 

6 Tips for Steady Faith that Doesn’t Burn Out

  • Don’t base your faith on emotions. None of us always feels peaceful, excited, or confident. We all have down times when we feel sad or lonely or just blah. We’re human and sometimes question things, waver in our faith, or fail to live as we should. Don’t worry if the excitement you originally felt when you came to Christ fades at times. Some days you just won’t feel like shouting “Hallelujah”. Remember, emotions come and go, but the peace and hope we have in Christ are eternal.
  • Keep serving God. We all possess spiritual gifts that help us contribute to God’s kingdom work. Seek God for wisdom in this area and allow Him to guide you into the lane you were perfectly designed for. We aren’t all made for children’s ministry. Ask my sweet husband who had a child pee in his lap while serving with me in the preschool. That was his last Sunday as my assistant.
  • Stay in the Word. We need to know who God is and what His Word says to deepen our relationship with Him. The more time we spend in the Word, the more we will want to. Strong relationships take effort, even a relationship with God. Devote time each day to personal study of the Word, meditation, scripture memory, and prayer—each one a building block of steady faith.
  • Join a Bible–believing church in your community. We need each other. It’s within the body of believers that we find help for our physical needs, gain prayer support, and experience genuine fellowship. Also, as we observe the steady faith of mature believers in our church, we’ll be encouraged that ours can be the same. In your church you can hopefully find someone who will disciple (walk beside) you in the faith as you grow and mature.
  • Manage your expectations. There will be Christians who let you down. Your Christian brothers and sisters are not perfect. They struggle and sometimes don’t act right. Pastors and other church leadership sometimes let us down, as well. Keep in mind, there is no perfect church (because churches are made up of imperfect people). Base your faith on the unchanging, all-perfect, Savior, Jesus Christ, not on sinful man. Watch who you idolize (sometimes that is the pastor, who is only human, himself). Forgive often and in every circumstance, as Jesus tells us in His Word.
  • Remember that God is always in control. There’s nothing that happens in our life that God has not allowed. He will use all of it for His glory and our sanctification. My husband, by all accounts a fit person, had triple bypass surgery at 55 years old. God knew we’d experience that bump in the road. He allowed it and He would work through it. My husband made it through, and many God stories happened because of it. Just because bad things happen to us doesn’t mean faith isn’t real or God doesn’t love us. To the contrary, it means that the Bible is true. The Bible tells us we’ll experience hardship. It tells us that God uses trials to shape us into a worthy vessel for His glory.

A steady, consistent, and confident faith over a lifetime is more than possible. Don’t let disappointment, mistakes, imperfect people, or lack of emotion cause you to doubt your faith. God will never leave you and nothing can take you out of His hand once you’ve come to Him in genuine faith and repentance.

“Be alert, stand firm in the faith, be courageous, be strong” 1 Corinthians 16:13 (CSB)

The bottom line is this: When we come to faith, it’s God who draws us to Himself and holds us there. We can trust Him. God is real and your faith is real—even on those days when you’re tired, or sad, or disappointed, and the last thing you feel like doing is praising God. That’s exactly when we must press on with confidence.

Let’s be sure to seek God’s direction and wisdom each day, resting in the security and peace we have in Him. Join me as we look forward to a beautiful, purposeful, eternity with God. Steady, unshakeable faith is a beautiful gift and it’s within reach for every believer.

“My sheep listen to my voice, and I know them, and they follow me; and I give them eternal life, and they will never perish; and no one will snatch them out of my hand.” John 10:27-28 (NASB)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Posted in Spiritual Encouragement | Tagged , , , , | Leave a comment