We are now part of the Key Ministry family and all our new content will be featured there. We'll leave this site up as a resource and hope you'll join our team of writers at our new home. … [Read more...]
Acceptance
There was nothing simple about my friend’s situation. One of her three sons was diagnosed with severe autism at age 11; his world and his parents’ world flipped upside down. For reasons only the Lord knows, his behaviors became aggressive, dangerous, and terrifying. For over a year they tried everything, prayed, tried more of everything, and then prayed more. Nothing worked. For everyone’s safety, … [Read more...]
What Should I Say To Hurting People?
Ever wish you could reach out to a friend in crisis, but you’re just not sure what to say? Most of us tend either to avoid the person or situation altogether or to rush in and say too much. The list below demonstrates some ways you can effectively support people in need. Notice how these responses acknowledge and reflect the person’s feelings without judging him or her or offering unwelcome … [Read more...]
When God Gives Detours
It was a road trip vacation for the Swindoll-Thompson family . . . a 2,288-mile road trip to be exact. At 1:00 a.m. on the morning we were to leave, I was doing some last-minute packing. I reached into my clothing drawer, never expecting to uncover a little framed school picture of my son Jon from 2004. Though I had reached for socks, instead I pulled out a photo in a 3x4-inch tattered frame … [Read more...]
But . . . Why?
- Written by Colleen Swindoll Thompson One of the first questions my children asked was, “Why?” It came at unwanted bedtimes, unexpected mealtimes, undesired moments of discipline, and unforgettable experiences of sacrifice and forgiveness. A wonderful innocence surrounds the question of “Why?” I don’t think we ever outgrow that basic question… at least, we don’t until we settle one of life’s … [Read more...]
Desert
When I say desert, what comes to your mind? Perhaps the brilliant stars, the bursting colors, or the brisk, cool evening air that brings relief from the day’s heat. Such thoughts refer to physical deserts, but I’m thinking of the periods in our lives that leave us feeling desperate, disillusioned, and dry. Desert seasons lack sparkling stars and brilliant colors, don’t they? Some of you have … [Read more...]