Choose to be Thankful

“Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus.”  1 Thessalonians 5:18 (NLT) Tis’ the season to give thanks! Thanksgiving was first shared in 1621 as an autumn feast between Plymouth colonist and Wampanoag Indians.  In an attempt to foster American unity during the Civil War, President Abraham […]

Christmas Clean-Out

“And don’t forget to do good and to share with those in need. These are the sacrifices that please God.” Hebrews 13:16  (NLT) From A Child’s Perspective, Bobby, Age 7 Mom calls it the “get ready for Christmas clean-out.”  We go through our closets and drawers – you know, pulling out clothes that don’t fit […]

Fruit of the Spirit…PATIENCE

“But if we look forward to something we don’t yet have, we must wait patiently and confidently.”  Romans 8:25 (NLT) From the life of Ryan, age 9 Whenever Mom and Dad talk about patience, it just means I have to wait for something I want right now!  Like when I’m standing in line at the […]

Fruit of the Spirit…JOY

“The Lord has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy.”  Psalm 126:3  (NIV) Defined by Claire, age 11 In church they say joy comes from inside my heart because God loves me, and feeling joy doesn’t mean I’m always happy about what’s going on.  Mom asked if I could explain the […]

Fruit of the Spirit…GOODNESS

“And don’t forget to do good and to share with those in need. These are the sacrifices that please God.” Hebrews 13:16  (NLT) A Father’s Perspective If you ask me, goodness is all about giving.  It’s about the unselfish gift of your time, talent, and resources to help those less fortunate.  Our church has several […]

Fruit of the Spirit…FAITHFULNESS

“Everything is possible for the person who has faith.”  Mark 9:23b (GNT) A Story by Timmy, Age 10 I just got back from science camp.  The week was a lot of fun, but my favorite activity was called the Leap of Faith.  First, the camp counselors helped me put on a harness that had ropes […]

Fruit of the Spirit…GENTLENESS

“Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, my strength and my redeemer.”  Psalm 19:14   As Defined by Cathy, Age 16 I like this word; gentleness.  Have you ever tried yelling or shouting it out loud?  It just doesn’t seem right.  If gentleness […]

Fruit of the Spirit…PEACE

“Finally, brothers, rejoice. Aim for restoration, comfort one another, agree with one another, live in peace; and the God of love and peace will be with you.”  2 Corinthians 13:11  (ESV) “What Peace Means to Me” by Nichole, Age 14 When I hear the word peace, the first thing I think about is world peace.  […]

Fruit of the Spirit…KINDNESS

  “When she speaks, her words are wise, and she gives instructions with kindness.”  Proverbs 31:26  (NLT) A Story by Libby, Mother of Two Last December, just before Christmas, my tests results confirmed what I feared. I have breast cancer. I was very realistic about the journey I was about to take, but surprisingly, I […]

Fruit of the Spirit…SELF-CONTROL

“You must understand this, my dear brothers.  Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry.  For human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires.”  James 1:19-20  (ISV) From Nick’s Life, Age 17 Since I didn’t have a job at the time, I’d wash my parent’s car to […]