The first time I let my kids hear my quiet time prayers, it was largely an accident. We pray together regularly throughout our days when sick friends come to mind, when the medi-helicopter flies overhead, and when minor knee scrapes threaten to steal the joy from our days.  We pray together before meals and before bedtime.  But I’d never considered praying out loud during my personal morning devotional time. Mornings at our house begin with a casual breakfast and quiet activities in the living room.  I read my Bible and spend some time in silent prayer.  Caleb, our youngest, usually…

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Let’s talk about sex! There will be quite a number of Christians reading this article who have had sex or participated in some form of sexual activity before marriage. For some, there is little to no guilt or shame in having shared something sacred before the right time. For others, the guilt of having sex before marriage has caused such a wound and that wound is not healing. I am addressing the second group. The Word of God is clear; to engage in sexual activity with someone who is not your husband is a sin. Even though culture is normalizing…

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I almost made it through 30 years of life without getting a traffic ticket. But almost doesn’t count. Just a few weeks ago I was pulled over for an expired tag and registration. I didn’t remember receiving a reminder in the mail but sure enough when I got home and looked through the mail, there it was . .  . still unopened. So there I was with a perfect driving record of almost 15 years . . . tainted. Also, the $25 ticket included almost $200 in court costs. I dreaded the day my court case arrived. It would only…

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When considering a relationship with someone it is important to consider that person’s spiritual beliefs as well as the way they view life and how they treat others. The following questions are important to consider before you begin a dating relationship. 1. Does he talk about seeking God’s direction for his life? Or does he envision a future of his own making? When he talks about the future, is there room for God?Does he have plans to serve God and the church in some way? Is he focused on the achievement of temporal success or eternal significance? Does he want to…

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