The book of Esther opens with the swift and forced exit of Queen Vashti, followed by a country-wide search for a new Queen. The King selects a young Jewish orphan named Esther. Just as she is settling into palace life, an enemy of the Jewish people has cleverly manipulated the King to issue a royal … Continue reading Where do I find God in a desperate situation? Psalm 22
Prayer
How do you speak to yourself? Psalm 5
Do you use practice kindness or condemnation? I confess my default setting for the voice inside my head leans heavily towards harsh criticism. I struggle to practice self-compassion. In Psalm 5, the psalmist calls out to the Lord for help. 1 Give ear to my words, O Lord; consider my groaning. 2 Give attention to … Continue reading How do you speak to yourself? Psalm 5
Are Your Prayers Plugged into the Power Source? Psalm 19
(A plug is being plugged into a wall power outlet.) Sometimes when the power goes out at my house, I have a terrible habit of continuously trying to turn the lights on. Then, as I move about the house and get busy working on other things, I forget about the lack of electricity. I keep … Continue reading Are Your Prayers Plugged into the Power Source? Psalm 19
Leaving and Lament: Psalm 17
(A woman is seated with her head bowed down.) 1 Hear me, Lord, my plea is just; listen to my cry. Hear my prayer—it does not rise from deceitful lips. 2 Let my vindication come from you; may your eyes see what is right. Psalm 17:1-2 NIV 3 Though you probe my heart, though you … Continue reading Leaving and Lament: Psalm 17
How Do I Lament in the Midst of Joy? Psalm 77
A woman sitting looking away in sadness. Sometimes a day carries both joy and sadness in overflowing measures. I had a chance to witness an incredible event today with family and friends at our church. My niece was baptized. Somehow, in a moment, I could only see my sister was not there to share something … Continue reading How Do I Lament in the Midst of Joy? Psalm 77
On the Road with God
As a child, I seldom had the opportunity to go to church. Looking back, I remember I was always a bit of a seeker. I wanted to know more about God, but He truly seemed so inaccessible. I can remember lying in my bed waiting to pray. I became convinced that since God was so … Continue reading On the Road with God
Anthea Kotlan 