Small Beginnings, Big Difference

Posted on May 27, 2026 by Arrow

A pilot friend of mine shared that once she was flying near a large airport and was surprised when the tower radioed about a problem. Apparently, one of her instruments needed recalibration. There was a 100-foot error in her altitude. That small difference could have been detrimental if her small plane had encountered the wind blast left by a jet.

In his book, Gradually Then Suddenly, Mark Batterson discusses “the butterfly effect,” which basically means a small change can make a big difference over time.

Batterson uses Paul’s voyage to Rome (Acts 27) as an example. When the ship’s captain noticed “a gentle soft wind,” they set sail. Soon a “wind of hurricane force” blew them off course, grounding the wrecked ship on an island. There, Paul was bitten by a poisonous snake and healed. He met the chief official, healed his ill father, and then healed many others. Revival followed … all traced back to one small puff of wind!

We never know how our action and words will affect the future … perhaps even future generations.

You may teach a small group, chat with or help a neighbor, share Bible stories with a child, or encourage someone over coffee. You think it’s nothing. But it could change someone’s entire trajectory. It could be just that “puff” or Holy Spirit moment they needed or remembered.

Perhaps you, influencing one person, could in turn touch the hearts of millions.

May these words from Zechariah encourage you: “Do not despise these small beginnings, for the LORD rejoices to see the work begin” (Zech. 4:10 NLT). God is not celebrating the end result. He is thrilled, and applauds when we begin the work, no matter how small.

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Leaning into Relationships

Posted on May 20, 2026 by Arrow

Some people thrive on relationships. Others find relationships difficult to manage or challenging to begin and maintain.

Today, let’s look at a couple of healthy relationships in the Bible.

In the book of 1 Samuel, we find that while Saul was King of Israel, his son Jonathan was good friends with David—the same David who, as a young man, killed the giant Goliath. But God had chosen David, not Saul’s son, as the next king. Saul, Jonathan, and David, all knew it.

This Photo by Unknown Author is licensed under CC BY-NC

Saul’s reaction to the news was to try to kill David. But the young men’s friendship was deep. Jonathan protected David from Saul’s wrath.

Scripture says, “Jonathan loved David as he loved himself” (1 Sam. 20:17b NLT). Jonathan was willing to give up his right to the throne for his friend David.

During David’s reign, he regularly sought the Lord for help and encouragement. His songs and prayers are found in the book of Psalms. Even though he made plenty of mistakes, Scripture notes David was “a man after [the Lord’s] own heart” (1 Sam. 13:14).

David’s son Solomon was also close to the Lord. One of the reasons the queen of Sheba came to visit Solomon was “his relationship to the LORD” (1 Kings 10:1 NIV).

Having good friends and being a good friend is important. But the number one relationship we should be working on is our relationship with God. This is the reason God created people. He wanted a relationship with us! It pleases Him when we come to Him. He longs for us to turn our heart toward Him and live in relationship with Him.

I encourage you to spend time with the Lord today … and then reach out to a friend.

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Moving Forward in Faith

Posted on May 13, 2026 by Arrow

We were babysitting grandsons. As the four-year-old stood on the toybox, Papa encouraged him to jump into his arms. This kiddo wanted to. He would get his toes right to the edge and then … step down to the floor, admitting, “I’m scared.”

We coaxed and reassured him that Papa would catch him. Finally, he leaped. Papa caught him and giggles filled the playroom.

Hebrews 11 is known as the “Hall of Faith.” It lists Old Testament characters who moved forward in faith, believing in and depending on a God who they could not see, but who was always faithful.

Most were regular folks who made plenty of mistakes. But when it counted, they stepped up and trusted God.

Abraham was one example. When told to go to a place where God would show him, he did! He eventually arrived in the land that one day would be known as Israel. He received no map. He didn’t know how far or how long he would travel. Abraham simply heard “Go” and he “obeyed and went.” (Hebrews 11:8-11)

Another example was Rahab from Jericho who risked her life by hiding the Israelite spies who came to check out their future homeland. Her faith in God was greater than her fear of the local king. God spared her and her family as the city was conquered. (Hebrews 11:31)

Hear this definition: “Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see” (Hebrews 11:1 NIV).

Our grandson could hope Papa would catch him, but he couldn’t see it happen until he jumped. Imagine if he had never jumped!

Better yet, may we imagine God following through on all He’s promised. May we not remain frozen in fear, but instead, move forward in faith and experience God’s blessings.

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Moving Forward After Failure

Posted on May 6, 2026 by Arrow

Last year, I opened the door to let in cooler air. Apparently, an unwelcome gnat, perhaps with some friends … drifted in. They found my plants in the living room and master bath. You know what happened next. They laid eggs in the soil and voila! We had a pesky gnat invasion!

I tell that story to remind myself that actions or decisions—even small ones—can have more than annoying consequences. Recently, I set some goals. The problem is, sometimes I make it difficult to reach those goals if I don’t make wise daily choices.

For instance, yesterday I surrendered to cookies at church which led to not-the-best selections at lunch and dinner. When I “cheat” and eat gluten, I don’t feel so great which cheats me of a good night’s sleep, which leads to a desire to sleep in. And if that happens, I get a late start the following day … which affects my goals. YIKES!

So, I kicked myself out of bed, opened up today’s devotional and read from 1 Timothy.

I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, 
who has given me strength to do his work. 
He considered me trustworthy 
and appointed me to serve him." 
1 Tim. 1:12 (NLT)

I love how God provides the encouragement we need.

Here’s what to do when we fail:

  1. Confess our shortcomings to God.
  2. Give thanks that God has a plan for us, including work to do for Him, and be thankful for opportunities to serve Him.
  3. Move forward doing what He’s called us to do.

Also, I’m learning I can increase the odds of having a successful day with a little preparation the day before and getting to bed at a decent time.

Let me know or comment on what works for you.

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Finding Peace in Life’s Storms

Posted on April 29, 2026 by Arrow

The early morning soccer game at the park met spectators and participants with “freezing winds” at least for us desert dwellers. Those who arrived in t-shirts and shorts borrowed blankets, beach towels, and anything with long-sleeves. Even though the afternoon promised sunburns, the morning was brrr!

This Photo by Unknown Author is licensed under CC BY-SA-NC

Troubles, like wind, may come unexpectedly. They can interrupt and upend our lives. But they never surprise God.

The disciples also encountered windy days. Mark describes a time their boat was nearly swamped in a fierce storm while Jesus napped! Notice the different reactions. When the terrified disciples woke Him, “[Jesus] got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, ‘Quiet! Be still!’” (Mark 4:39). Imagine the silent stillness.

In another storm, Jesus walked on choppy water as if it were nothing. He didn’t mind the wind even though it was driving the disciples’ boat across the lake.

Both times, Jesus knew His disciples were in trouble. He knew exactly what was happening and where there were. And He was present to help.

The same is true with us. Jesus knows what troubles are blowing our way and the storms we are facing. He is aware of our circumstances as well as our emotions, including fear. He understands and helps us.

Like the wind, our troubles do not threaten Jesus in the least. Nothing in creation is more powerful than the Creator Himself. Jesus encourages us with, “[A]ll things are possible with God” (Mark 10:27); and the author of Psalm 46:1 reminds us, “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.”

Never fear. Jesus is near.

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Guarding Your Heart Against Evil

Posted on April 22, 2026 by Arrow

We don’t have to look far or listen long to find evil. Whether it’s a news story about someone breaking the law or junk that pops up in ads, evil is all around us.

This Photo by Unknown Author is licensed under CC BY

So, what are we to do?

First, we must identify it. The New Testament teaches specifically what kinds of thoughts and actions are evil. It is our responsibility to read and study Scripture.

But knowledge is not enough. Obedience is required. God knows we struggle with obedience so thankfully He gave us the Holy Spirit to help. Not only does the Spirit speak to our hearts as we read God’s Word, He also reminds us of God’s expectations.

Jesus taught, “A good person produces good things from the treasury of a good heart, and an evil person produces evil things from the treasury of an evil heart.” (Matthew 12:35 NLT).

How do hearts become good or evil? If it depends on the input we treasure, we need to stop and examine what we are exposing our mind to. What language, pictures, and lifestyles are we watching, hearing, and replaying in our head? What influencers are we paying attention to? Who and what are we allowing to impact our heart?

Let’s heed the warning and advice found in Proverbs 4:23. “Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life” (NLT). Wow! See how input can affect our life?  We must be alert.

Finally, hear Paul’s instructions to the church, “[B]ut test everything that is said. Hold on to what is good. Stay away from every kind of evil” (1 Thessalonians 5:21-22 NLT).

Sounds like an action plan! Let’s diligently protect our heart, keeping a huge distance between our heart and anything evil.

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The Comfort of God’s Hand

Posted on April 15, 2026 by Arrow

Remember the butterflies and pounding heart the first time someone you were interested in held your hand? Or the comfort and support you experienced when a loved one reached for your hand? And we can’t help but smile when we see fist bumps, high fives, and reunion hugs.

Somehow, a gentle touch to our hand touches our heart. That’s why it is significant the Lord says repeatedly that He holds our hand.

In fearful situations, hear God say, “For I hold you by your right hand—I, the LORD your God. And I say to you, ‘Don’t be afraid. I am here to help you’” (Isaiah 41:13 NLT).

When needing support, read, “A person’s steps are established by the LORD, and he takes pleasure in his way. Though he falls, he will not be overwhelmed, because the LORD supports him with his hand” (Psalm 37:23-24 CSB).

God holding or supporting us with His hand emphasizes His nearness to us—His being with us. Sometimes we imagine God in the highest heaven on His throne. Other times, we need Him near, beside, and with us.

Finally, when I need help and encouragement, I focus on this favorite. “Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand” (Isaiah 41:10 NLT).

Go ahead. Imagine God’s nearness. Take His hand as He sits next to you on your way to that anxiety-ridden appointment. Hold His hand as you lie awake at night. And sense His touch as you slip into peaceful sleep.

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Creating a Habit of Daily Praise

Posted on April 8, 2026 by Arrow

There are things we do repeatedly throughout our day. Some repeat medications or exercises. Doctors advise drinking water multiple times a day. In Old Testament times, it was common for people to pray three times a day.

Recently while reading in Psalms, I came across this, “I will praise You seven times a day because all Your regulations are just” (Psalm 119:164 NLT). I thought, “Wow, that’s a lot!” Like every two hours between 7:00 AM and 7:00 PM.

7:00AM, 9:00AM, 11:00AM,
1:00PM, 3:00 PM, 5:00 PM, 7:00 PM

My Bible footnote explained ‘seven’ is a number of completeness. So, if I praise God when I wake up and go to bed, that may be only a warmup. I’m missing out and so is God who is most worthy of praise.

But how could we remember to praise God more often? Let’s examine our current routine. What regular action that we’re already doing could be used as a reminder to praise the Lord? Getting in the car? Walking through the kitchen or to the restroom? Washing hands or putting on lip balm? Reaching for another cup of ______?

Pausing every couple of hours during my day to offer praise seems like a great habit in doing life with the Lord. It reminds me I am not alone, and He is the source of all I need.

A few verses later the unnamed author of Psalm 119 says, “Let praise flow from my lips, for You have taught me Your decrees” (119:171 NLT). Being tuned in to the Lord will likely improve hearing His voice better as well.

So, let’s try it. I might even set reminders on my phone. Goal: “I will praise You seven times a day.”

Let me know if you will join me in this giving this a try and what will remind you.

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Choosing Between Wisdom and Foolishness: A Lesson from Proverbs

Posted on April 1, 2026 by Arrow

Interesting! This email just happens to coincide with April Fool’s Day! 😉

We make many decisions daily. What activities or business dealings will fill our hours? Choices about who to spend time with, how to spend time and money, where to live, how to raise kids, and how and when to influence others.

According to the book of Proverbs, two personified female voices call out to us, Wisdom and Folly (or Foolishness). Today, we probably hear them through our phones, in the media or social media.

Therefore, we desperately need discernment, especially since the consequences of following the two voices have dramatically different outcomes.

This Photo by Unknown Author is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND

Proverbs 9:13-16 (NLT) describes Folly as “brash” and “ignorant”. She looks out over the city and calls to those “minding their own business” and to “those who lack good judgment”. For those who follow Folly, their future is summed up as, “Entering her house leads to death; it is the road to the grave” (Proverbs 2:18 NLT).

Yikes! Let’s make a U-turn and hear what the voice of Wisdom has to say.

Wisdom calls out in the city and at crossroads. Her instruction “is like a life-giving fountain” (13:14). She will protect and guard you (4:6). “She offers you long life in her right hand, and riches and honor in her left. She will guide you down delightful paths; all her ways are satisfying . . . [H]appy are those who hold her tightly” (Prov. 3:16-18 NLT).

Whoa! The better choice seems obvious but temptation can make sin pretty appealing.

May we be cautious and wise in our pathway decisions. And may contemplating the principles—not promises—of Proverbs guide us to right choices and a blessed life.

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Nourish Your Soul: The Power of God’s Word

Posted on March 25, 2026 by Arrow

Many of us are aiming for a healthier lifestyle. We try to include exercise and may add supplements and vitamins to our daily routine. But are we feeding our soul and spirit?

This morning, I was reading a devotion that pointed out the “superhuman power” of God’s Word as described in the Amplified translation of 1 Thessalonians 2:13:

“[W]hen you received the message of God … you welcomed it not as the word of [mere] men, but as it truly is, the Word of God, which is effectually at work in you who believe [exercising its superhuman power in those who adhere to and trust in and rely on it].”

God’s Word—the Bible—is effective and makes a powerful difference in our lives. In Worry Less Pray More, Donna K. Maltese summarizes that Scripture saves, guides, warns, rewards, counsels, trains, revives, restores, comforts, nourishes, renews, strengthens, gives joy, and prospers us. I would add, it also encourages and sustains.

God’s Word is our light in the darkness. It gives wisdom, understanding, peace, insight, and inspiration. It provides answers for many of our questions, teaches us about the character of God, and demonstrates how we can reflect those same characteristics. Through the Word, we can come to know the Lord better and draw closer in our relationship with Him.

Like a cell phone needing a daily charge, we need to get plugged in and read—or listen to—God’s Word. Without it, we are empty. We become discouraged and weak and have little to offer others.

Not only do I need to start my day with God’s Word, I may need a pick-me-up at noon or mid-afternoon, especially if I’m feeling down or “hangry”.

Let’s jumpstart our day with nutrients from God’s Word which will strengthen and sustain us.

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