A helpful book

Depression: A Stubborn Darkness by Edward T. Welch

I recently saw this book recommended on no less than three blog sites. I was not particularly looking for a book on depression, but the three bloggers recommending it are pastors and the author of the book is a man. I have read some good and helpful books by women, and I was interested in reading from a different viewpoint. I know this author has written other good books and he is not new to writing.

Anyway, I would say this book is hands down one of the best books I have read on the topic of walking with God and how we form relationships with others. It will be a good book to read again, and I will keep it for a very helpful reference; (i.e. it's probably going to make the cut for books I will be taking to Brazil!)

Please pray for upcoming meetings in February and for our visas to be approved soon.

Prayer for our political days

From a Life Action Revival Ministries prayer guide:

"Pray that Christians will seek the face of God versus the hand of God. That our chief concern would be His approval versus His blessing."

Material things don't seem to last or to continually satisfy. I would like to be approved by God more than I would like to be blessed by stuff.

"As for me, I shall behold Your face in righteousness;
I will be satisfied with Your likeness when I awake."
Psalm 17:15

We are continually helped by your prayers. Thank you.

Miracle of Grace

I have just finished reading The Gospel for Real Life by Jerry Bridges. The author reminds me as a Christian that I am now a miracle of God's grace. All saved people are miracles of grace no matter how good or bad their actions have been. It's easy to say, "Yes, I have heard that so many times, and what's new about that idea?"

For me the reminder is that there is liberty and freedom in loving and serving God. I have righteousness in Christ already, and I am constrained to serve Christ with grace towards others...every day.

"But may it never be that I would boast,
except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ"
Galatians 6:14

Thank you for remembering to pray for us.

Christmas contentment

Olivia was so good to pose for some Christmas pictures. She had different things for props but we know what really puts a smile on her face...!

Hopefully we all remember to be thankful and happy with the small gifts each day brings.