Her Sides

Every action we take in this life is like a seed. Every choice we make is something we sow, and just like every seed that is planted, it grows and produces after its own kind.   When we sow a smile, we often receive one in return. When we sow kindness, kindness has a way of finding its way back to us. But of all the seeds we can sow, righteousness produces one of the greatest harvests.   What is righteousness? Simply put, it is choosing to do what is right according to God's standard. It draws us closer to Him, and in His presence we experience peace, joy, hope, and fullness of life. When we choose to live according to God's ways, we not only honor Him, but we also position ourselves to experience the blessings that come from walking with Him.   As Proverbs 14:34 reminds us, "Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a reproach to any people."    Every time we choose what is right, we are sowing seeds that bring pleasure to God and produce a harvest ...

There is a race set before you—a divine call, a path marked out by God, a purpose only you can fulfill. Do you still remember it? Are you still walking in it? Or have distractions slowly pulled you away from the life God called you to live? That was the question my church pastor asked on Sunday, or at least part of the message that stayed with me. It caused me to reflect on my own race and the many others I’ve witnessed. So many of us begin the Christian race with passion—that hot, fiery blaze that shines brightly as we step into our walk with God. But somewhere along the way, many lose focus. Life gets noisy. Comparison creeps in. Delays become discouraging. Offense, disappointment, and weariness begin to weigh the heart down. Slowly, the blaze that once burned brightly becomes a faint ember. As concerning as that may sound, there is no judgment in the eyes of God. He understands. That is why He sends messengers to rekindle the spark within us and remind us that it is not enough...