Do you think of yourself as a skeptic? Someone who is prone to doubt and to question, who tends to be uncertain about the claims that people make. The truth is that probably we are all more skeptical than we realize or want to admit. The reasons are obvious, aren’t they? Sometimes I wonder how…… Continue Reading
Author Archives: Marilyn
Lesson 4 – Intro – Jan. 31 – Feb. 7 – PRAYING WITH EXPECTATION
One of the delightful things about young children is their enthusiasm and joy when they realize that something special is about to happen. It might be Christmas or the first day of kindergarten, but it could also be something that would be quite ordinary to most adults, like going out for an ice cream cone…… Continue Reading
Sharing An Insight – Lesson 3
This whole idea of prayer is so contrary to our human inclination and our culture’s values, isn’t it? I want to feel in control, independent, self sufficient and valued. It shows up in such unexpected places and ways. The “voices” around me and in me reinforce the idea that I can make this happen if…… Continue Reading
Lesson 3 – Intro – January 24 – 31 PRAYING WITH HOPE
Did you know “that you and I could probably live 40 days without food, 8 days without water, 4 minutes without air, but only a few seconds without hope”? What is it about hope that makes it so essential to our lives? The anticipation that tomorrow will be better, that change is possible, or that…… Continue Reading
Sharing an Insight – Lesson 2 –
Do you like lists? I need them – every day. In fact, I wouldn’t function very well without them. What groceries do I need at Safeway, Trader Joes, and Costco this week? What errands do I need to do when I go in to town? What calls do I want to make? And, of course,…… Continue Reading
Lesson 2 – Intro – January 17 – 24 PRAYING WITH PERSEVERANCE
We thrive on the immediate and the instantaneous, don’t we? Multi-tasking so that we can accomplish more things in less time is a way of life for many. Instant communication through texting and chatting provides us not only with convenience but the ability to communicate in the moment. Waiting is simply not something most of…… Continue Reading
Sharing An Insight – Lesson 1
Why did Paul pray that God would “sanctify through and through” or “make holy in every way” these new believers? How does that happen? Perhaps it is a bit like remodeling a house. The builder has the plans, the tools, the materials, and the vision for what the completed project will look like. Wouldn’t it…… Continue Reading
Lesson 1 – Intro – January 10 – 17 PRAYING WITH THANKSGIVING
How does it make you feel when someone expresses their gratitude to you for a trait which they admire about you? It is always nice when you receive a word or note of appreciation for a gift or a specific act of kindness or helpfulness, but when your family or a friend recognizes and then…… Continue Reading
Get Ready, Get Set, Go
Get Ready – What would it take to move forward in your relationship with Jesus? Could it be that prayer might be an important part of this? “Nobody who has grown in the life of God has neglected prayer.” (W. Sangster) Think about it. Get Set – Print out your study guides so that you’re…… Continue Reading
SPONTANEOUS, INTENTIONAL or BOTH?
Would you agree that marriage and good friendships thrive when there are great times of spontaneous, unplanned moments and minutes of conversation but that these relationships also need regular time for communication that is thoughtful and deliberate? One kind of interaction without the other is incomplete and over time will not enhance a strong, stable…… Continue Reading