Devotionals
In 2015, I was given the opportunity to write devotionals for LandMAX Properties and Timber Company, where I worked part-time. The "Words of Encouragement" devotional series was originally inspired by LandMAX’s owner, Chad Smith, whose heart has always been to be a light to others through his daily work. Though my husband, Matt, and I took on a new ministry role out of town shortly after this began, I’ve continued writing for LandMAX ever since (and sometimes Matt jumps in to write as well)!
We’re incredibly grateful for the many years we’ve been part of this wonderful vision for the LandMAX community, and now we’re excited to extend these devotionals to you, too!
No More Sting
Our pastor is in a series on worship, and he talked about the significance of David worshiping God in the desert—when circumstances weren't good. His joy came after his choice to worship in the desert, not before, and his faith was strengthened by looking back and remembering what God had already done. It wasn't receiving a new miracle that built his faith, but rather thanking God for what He had already done. Our church was encouraged at the close of the message to make a list this week, remembering all the times God has been faithful. So on Monday, I decided to do just that, starting from childhood and chronologically working my way to the present. As I did, I stumbled upon a memory.
In the Details
It’s been almost two weeks since our family loaded up U-Hauls to begin our journey from Mississippi to South Carolina. We have been so excited about this move, knowing God is in it and looking forward to it with anticipation! Still, moving is a very stressful thing to do, and I could feel anxiety creeping in as our move day approached. As I was praying about this, a phrase from Scripture came to mind: “You see me when I travel and when I rest at home.”
Palmetto Trees & Me
"Hello!" from South Carolina! Christy and I have finally moved into our new home in Summerville, South Carolina, after what felt like a whirlwind journey to get here. Travel is not new to me, but this is certainly the biggest move our family has made since Christy and I have been married.
Lean On Me
I am the world’s worst at remembering lyrics to songs. It’s not surprising when I can’t remember the lyrics to basic songs like “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star,” “Happy Birthday,” or even that worship song with the same chorus you sing 1,000 times during a service. I don’t know why—I LOVE music! Just ask Christy. The only problem is, much like my inability to remember lyrics, I often forget song titles, artists, and everything in between. I just know I like it when I hear it. Have you ever felt that way?
Rest on Every Side
Sometimes we go through very long, difficult seasons and forget something important while we’re in the middle of them: they are “seasons,” not meant to last forever, no matter how permanent they feel at the time. Both the best and worst days of our lives come and go—we can’t freeze them in time. Even the longest seasons that seem painfully permanent, like incurable sickness or the sting of loss, will have an end one day when we see Jesus face to face.