Experts tell us that the sense of “entitlement” is a growing phenomenon in our culture. It is defined as a “feeling or belief that you deserve to be given something simply because of who you are.” It could be in the form of compensation, special privileges and rights, recognition, or even power. Throughout history most…… Continue Reading
Author Archives: Marilyn
IF You Can. . . – An Insight for Lesson 7
It’s one of those polite phrases that we can almost say without thinking. We use it when asking someone to do a favor for us. We say it when we doubt either someone’s availability or ability. In an effort to be considerate of the strength or the schedule of another person, we easily tack it…… Continue Reading
MORE THAN ADVICE – Intro to Lesson 7 – February 24 – March 3
In a world where we are bombarded with all kinds of advice, how do you choose what to take seriously? Do this. Eat that. Buy this. Come here. Go there. There are 3 major reasons that people will begin to listen to the counsel and advice that others give to them. The first is driven…… Continue Reading
Don’t You Remember? – An Insight for Lesson 6
Feeling a bit discouraged or anxious these days? Experiencing some concerns or confusion about the future? It seems like everywhere you go people are focused on the stormy weather, the tumultuous political scene that we are presently experiencing in a profound way, or some more personal trauma. Where can you turn for answers and help?…… Continue Reading
IT’S HOW YOU SAY IT! – Intro to Lesson 6 – February 17 – 24
Do you remember the age-old adage, “It’s not what you said, but how you said it that really matters”? Researchers agree that somewhere between 35 and 40% of our communication is not through the words that we use but through the tone, inflection and speed of our voices. Every child knows the difference between hearing…… Continue Reading
Slow Learners? – An Insight for Lesson 5
Fortunately Jesus was very patient with His early disciples! It took them a long time to grasp the reality of who Jesus truly was and the degree to which they could trust Him. “Send the people to get their own food” was their solution to the problem when Jesus was right there to perform a…… Continue Reading
WHAT IS COMPASSION? – Intro to Lesson 5 – February 10 – 17
Remember Winnie the Pooh and his friend Eeyore? One day Pooh Bear was walking along the riverbank and noticed that Eeyore, his stuffed donkey friend, was floating downstream on his back and obviously troubled about the possibility that he might drown. So Pooh asked Eeyore if he had fallen in. Eeyore, trying to appear to…… Continue Reading
Storm Warning – An Insight for Lesson 4
Would you agree that sometimes the storms of life come in slowly and we can choose to prepare for their impact, but more often than not, they come in suddenly and unexpectedly? Sometimes God chooses to calm the storm quickly and we can recognize His hand of protection and mercy and respond with amazement and…… Continue Reading
STORIES WITH A PURPOSE – Intro to Lesson 4 – February 3 – 10
There is no question that storytelling, while one of the most ancient art forms, is still one of the greatest and most effective means of communication. Stories capture the attention of people in all stages of life. In fact someone has said, “After nourishment, shelter and companionship, stories are the thing we need most in…… Continue Reading
Who Me? Clogged Arteries? – An Insight for Lesson 3
Perhaps you know first hand how serious the diagnosis of atherosclerosis really is. It means that the blood vessels that carry oxygen-rich blood to all parts of your body, including your heart, are becoming clogged. It’s actually life threatening if the proper medical advice is not heeded and treatment given. Perhaps that is similar to…… Continue Reading