It Is What It Is I have a friend who is fond of saying, “It is what it is.” She makes this observation when faced with unpleasant circumstances or situations outside of her control. I confess, that statement has always bothered me. What’s the point? The phrase...
The People of Christmas: The Trusting
The People of Christmas: The Trusting I trust gravity will keep my feet anchored to the floor when I get out of bed. I trust the light will turn on when I flip the electric switch. I trust the sun will rise tomorrow morning. There is a slight chance that one or...
Fairness, Entitlements, or Grace ?
I deserve this. I earned it. It’s my...
Asking the Provider to Provide
What was the last thing you asked God for? Health? Finances? A relationship? After all, one of the names God revealed for Himself in the Bible is Yahweh Jireh, our Provider, right? And let’s not forget what James wrote: “You do not have because you do not ask God”...
Shepherds in the Headlines – the Good, the Bad, & the Ugly
One of the most significant roles described in the Bible is the role of shepherd. But it's one that can also be abused. Lately, our present-day news headlines have been filled with accounts of the worst possible abuse by 21st century pastor-shepherds. For years, many...
But God
One of my favorite phrases in the Bible is “but God.” The phrase is peppered throughout Scripture. And it makes my heart smile every time I come across one of those verses. They bring a vertical perspective to my horizontal circumstances. They remind me that my...
Praying for Peace When Others Pray for War
What’s the point of praying for peace when your adversary is dead-set (no pun intended) on war? As the weeks of December move us toward Christmas, many Christians recognize Advent themes that traditionally include hope, peace, joy, and love. Last week, I wrote about...
Two Types of Hope – Which One Is Yours?
If there’s one thing in short supply these days, it’s hope. Politicians promise, but fail to deliver on their promises. Family members make commitments, but disappoint us. Terrorists strike with seeming impunity. Jobs are scarce, money is tight, and the more we wish...
Did the Solar Eclipse Change You?
The 2017 solar eclipse is now history. The special glasses we sought in a frenzy have been cast aside. Life is back to normal once again. So, has anything really changed? For some, the waltz between the moon and the sun merely provided a diversion from the routine—a...
Watch the Lamb of God
“Behold the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world!” John the Baptist exclaimed. Why would John say such a thing? The answer is found way back in the book of Exodus. After God delivered Israel from Egyptian slavery, He established Passover as a time for them...
Receive Ava’s weekly blog
posts & occasional
newsletters in your inbox!
You May Also Like
He is Mine: Experiencing God’s Attributes
He is Mine: Experiencing God’s Attributes Our culture offers a variety of opinions as to who God is, presuming...
Nowhere to Hide
Nowhere to Hide Similar to other states, the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) has an “eye in the sky”—and there’s...
Three Ministries of the Holy Spirit
Three Ministries of the Holy Spirit Navigating this crazy world as a follower of Christ is becoming more and...