Lori Hatcher's Blog: Refresh Blog, page 25

9 Simple Words for a Complicated World

In a complicated world, simplicity stands out. Micah 6:8 is one of those verses that brings clarity to our world. 

“He has showed you, O man, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.” 

We often wonder what the Lord requires of us. We debate complicated theology and complex life plans, but God spells it out in nine words 

To act justly. To love mercy. To walk humbly. 

To act justly 

To act justly means to treat people fairly, equally, impartially, and honestly. It means pulling our weight in the work place. Going beyond what is expected of us. Looking for ways to bless and serve our coworkers and employers. It means paying our bills on time, before we spend our money on non-essential purchases. 

It means never pilfering – not a stamp, an envelope, or our employer’s time. If we’re on the clock, we should be working. The Golden Rule sums up what it looks like to act justly. 

“So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you,” (Mat. 7:12). 

To love mercy 

Mercy has its basis in Christ’s work on the cross. Although we deserve to spend eternity separated from God in a place called hell, God extends mercy to us. He sacrificed his Son, Jesus, on a cruel Roman cross to make a way for us to live with him forever in Heaven. 

What undeserved favor. What grace. What mercy. 

Because God extended the greatest act of mercy toward us – giving us what we didn’t deserve and could never earn – we, too, can freely extend mercy to others. We respond kindly to obnoxious and rude people. We leave a generous tip despite poor service. (Don’t worry about reinforcing a bad work ethic. There will be plenty of other customers who will point it out. Be different and extend mercy.) We look for ways to demonstrate kindness and respect to the most difficult among us. Mercy is compassionate, and tenderhearted. 

To walk humbly 

James 4:6 tells us God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble. Can you think of a more frightening thing than having the God of the universe oppose us? 

And who doesn’t need more grace? 

God promises his unmerited favor – grace – when we walk humbly before him. Walking humbly with God doesn’t mean thinking poorly of ourselves. It means not thinking of ourselves at all. A humble life is other-focused. It serves, gives, and builds others up. 

Instead of responding defensively to a rebuke, correction, or criticism, humble people listen. They look for truth and make necessary changes, regardless of how the correction was delivered. The humble never forget where they came from. They remember their spiritual beginnings and respond with patience and grace to others’ youth, immaturity, or blind spots. 

Instead of pridefully holding on to bitterness and anger when others wrong them, they forgive. They know God has forgiven a great sin-debt on their behalf. To fully embrace their freedom in Christ, they forgive as he forgave.

To act justly. To love mercy. To walk humbly with your God. Three simple instructions for a complicated world. Consider for a moment how different our lives would be if we kept these three in mind. 

Now it’s your turn. Can you think of an example of someone who has acted justly, loved mercy, or walked humbly? I’d love to hear your story. Leave a comment below to share your thoughts. If you’re reading by email, click HERE to visit Hungry for God online and leave a comment at the bottom.







Does Your Faith Need Refreshing?

That's in the Bible? I've never noticed that before!

It's probably been too long since you've newly discovered a story that speaks to your soul or a verse that pops with truth. But that's about to change!


Refresh Your Faith contains 66 culturally relevant, story-driven devotions, one from each book of the Bible. Each real-life story spotlights an unusual verse or Bible passage that you may have overlooked in your usual Bible reading. Lori Hatcher challenges you with additional features like an uncommon thought to ponder; an unusual faith action step; and an unfamiliar passage suggestion for additional Bible reading.

When the fabulous has become familiar and your quiet times are more like nap times, it's time to step out of spiritual boredom and ignite the spark that will keep you growing. No matter where you are on your faith journey, Lori's conversational and engaging style will challenge you to think about things you've never thought about before.

“Real-life inspiration and candid wit. These 5-minute devotions will change your life.” —Psychologist and best-selling author Dr. Kevin Leman, commenting on Lori Hatcher's devotional style




Are you hungry for God, but starving for time? 
I’d love to send you a 5-minute e-mail devotion twice a week to start your day off with the Lord. 

Sign up for a free subscription to Hungry for God by CLICKING HERE.
Then, be sure to VALIDATE the confirmation email you receive. 

Note: I promise never to spam you or share your email address.

Because busy women need to connect with God in the craziness of everyday life.


If this post was meaningful to you, would you consider sharing it with a friend by clicking on one of the buttons below? Did you know you can receive bi-weekly Hungry for God posts sent directly to your email inbox? Visit http://www.lori-benotweary.blogspot.com and click on the link in the right hand corner to Subscribe Via Email.

Copyright 2018 by Lori Hatcher

10 Reasons You Can Trust God with the Election Results

French poet Victor Hugo once said, “And when you have laboriously accomplished your daily task, go to sleep in peace. God is awake."

If I were to choose a word to describe the recent election season, I’d choose the word laborious.

Angry tirades and scathing accusations have volleyed from one campaign to another like mortar fire during an armed conflict, and we the people have been wounded in the crossfire.

Christians, convinced their candidate is the only godly choice, share their opinions passionately in person and on social media, dividing friendships, families, and even churches. “There’s only one candidate for men and women of faith,” the voices cry, yet they cry from both sides of the aisle. Even “neutral” fact checkers can’t agree which facts are fact and which are fallacy. Crystal clear issues grow as muddy as a river during flood season. We the church are weary, battle-scarred, and conflicted.

Hugo was right, we have accomplished our laborious task, and on election night we’ll go to sleep, possibly uncertain about who our next president, or governor, or representative is. Or perhaps the vote will clearly and decisively declare one candidate a winner—but not the one we hoped for.

 Regardless, we can go to sleep in peace. God is awake.

 He is not only awake, He is seated on His throne, reigning over the affairs of this earth with wisdom and justice.

 You can trust Him if the election doesn’t turn out as you hoped for these ten reasons and a thousand more:

I'm honored to guest post on the Revive Our Hearts Leaders Blog today. to read the rest of this post, CLICK HERE.

Does Your Faith Need Refreshing?

That's in the Bible? I've never noticed that before!

It's probably been too long since you've newly discovered a story that speaks to your soul or a verse that pops with truth. But that's about to change!


Refresh Your Faith contains 66 culturally relevant, story-driven devotions, one from each book of the Bible. Each real-life story spotlights an unusual verse or Bible passage that you may have overlooked in your usual Bible reading. Lori Hatcher challenges you with additional features like an uncommon thought to ponder; an unusual faith action step; and an unfamiliar passage suggestion for additional Bible reading.

When the fabulous has become familiar and your quiet times are more like nap times, it's time to step out of spiritual boredom and ignite the spark that will keep you growing. No matter where you are on your faith journey, Lori's conversational and engaging style will challenge you to think about things you've never thought about before.

“Real-life inspiration and candid wit. These 5-minute devotions will change your life.” —Psychologist and best-selling author Dr. Kevin Leman, commenting on Lori Hatcher's devotional style




Are you hungry for God, but starving for time? 
I’d love to send you a 5-minute e-mail devotion twice a week to start your day off with the Lord. 

Sign up for a free subscription to Hungry for God by CLICKING HERE.
Then, be sure to VALIDATE the confirmation email you receive. 

Note: I promise never to spam you or share your email address.

Because busy women need to connect with God in the craziness of everyday life.


If this post was meaningful to you, would you consider sharing it with a friend by clicking on one of the buttons below? Did you know you can receive bi-weekly Hungry for God posts sent directly to your email inbox? Visit http://www.lori-benotweary.blogspot.com and click on the link in the right hand corner to Subscribe Via Email.

Copyright 2018 by Lori Hatcher

The Habit that Changed Me

“I bought a Bible yesterday,” Sarah said, “and I’m going to start reading it. I hope to find some answers.” 

Sarah and I talked a bit about how to begin. “The Bible isn’t like most books,” I said, “where you start at the beginning and read straight through, although many have read it that way. The first time I read it, I began in the New Testament, with Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John.”

I’m so excited for this woman who’s seeking answers. She’s come to the right place. 

James 1:5 promises, “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him.” 

As she reads, Sarah will find answers. 

Better yet, she will find God. 

John 1:1 tells us, “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” 

As Sarah reads the Word of God, she will encounter Jesus. 

And Jesus has the power to change her life. 

My Confession 

Twenty years ago I wrestled with one of two greatest commandments: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.” 


I loved God with my soul—I had trusted Him as Savior. I acknowledged him with my mind, too, as King and Sovereign Lord. 

But I struggled to love Him with my heart—my emotions and my passion. I didn’t feel for God the emotions I normally equate with love. I felt awe, respect, and gratitude, but my heart didn’t swell like it did when I thought about my husband, or my children, or even my friends. 

Something was missing. 

A Curious Thing Happened

That year I began to read through the Bible for the first time. I used the MacArthur Daily Bible, which breaks up the text into daily readings, a portion from the Old Testament, a portion of the New, a Psalm, and a Proverb. In fifteen minutes a day, I’d read through the Bible in a year. 

As I read, a curious thing happened. My heart stirred.

I read in Genesis how God created mankind from nothing and walked and talked with Adam and Eve at the end of every day, and I glimpsed God’s desire for a relationship with us (Genesis 3:8). 

I learned that though He had every right to destroy the people He had created because they spurned His love and believed Satan’s lie, He immediately put in place instead a redemption plan, one that vanquished death and hell for those who would believe (Genesis 3:15). 

I listened to His heart as He described His plan to bless all those who would believe in Him (Psalm 37). 

I heard Him weep as he rescued rebellious Israel over and over again from the folly of sin (Jeremiah 8:18-21). 

I read how He longed to gather His children in His arms and care for them all the days of their lives (Matthew 23:37). 

And I read, on every page and in every story, God’s Father heart calling to His children, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 28:11). 

The more I read, the more I fell in love with God. 

Heart-swelling, chest-bursting, tell-the-world love that couldn’t be contained. Tears of overwhelming emotion often dripped from my eyes onto the pages of my Bible. A warmth I’d never experienced wrapped around me like the softest blanket, cradling me in God’s embrace.


I loved Him. 

I LOVED Him. 

I LOVED HIM. 

With all my mind, all my soul, and all my HEART, I loved Him. 

This is the power of God’s Word. We cannot read it and remain unchanged. We cannot read it without falling in love with its Author. 

“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word WAS God.” 

I’m so excited for Sarah. Not only will she read the Word of God, she’ll encounter the God of the Word. 

If she seeks Him with all her heart, she will find Him. 

And her life will be changed forever. 

What About You? 

In the article, “Ten Questions for a New Year,” Don Whitney invites us to prayerfully ask ourselves, “What one thing can you do this year to increase your enjoyment of God?” 

The answer for me, and, I suspect, for most of us, is Read the Bible. 

Nowhere else will we experience the depth and breadth and height of God’s love for us. Nothing else will expand our love for Him. Nothing will transform our lives more than the living, active, powerful Word of God. 

If you’re skeptical, why not try it and see what happens? 

Begin your Bible reading time by asking, as Moses did, “Lord, show me your glory.” Then read with an open heart. In a journal, write down what you learn about God. Before long you’ll have a list longer than the list I made as a 13-year-old girl about THE ONE I hoped to marry someday. Strong, patient, kind, loving, sacrificial, humble, gentle, smart, creative, wise, honest, fun-loving, joyful, peacemaking . . . and on and on it will go. 

How can you not fall in love with Someone like this? 

He will draw your heart to His with cords of loving kindness and fill your life with joy. 

Try it and see.




Does Your Faith Need Refreshing?

That's in the Bible? I've never noticed that before!

It's probably been too long since you've newly discovered a story that speaks to your soul or a verse that pops with truth. But that's about to change!


Refresh Your Faith contains 66 culturally relevant, story-driven devotions, one from each book of the Bible. Each real-life story spotlights an unusual verse or Bible passage that you may have overlooked in your usual Bible reading. Lori Hatcher challenges you with additional features like an uncommon thought to ponder; an unusual faith action step; and an unfamiliar passage suggestion for additional Bible reading.

When the fabulous has become familiar and your quiet times are more like nap times, it's time to step out of spiritual boredom and ignite the spark that will keep you growing. No matter where you are on your faith journey, Lori's conversational and engaging style will challenge you to think about things you've never thought about before.

“Real-life inspiration and candid wit. These 5-minute devotions will change your life.” —Psychologist and best-selling author Dr. Kevin Leman, commenting on Lori Hatcher's devotional style




Are you hungry for God, but starving for time? 
I’d love to send you a 5-minute e-mail devotion twice a week to start your day off with the Lord. 

Sign up for a free subscription to Hungry for God by CLICKING HERE.
Then, be sure to VALIDATE the confirmation email you receive. 

Note: I promise never to spam you or share your email address.

Because busy women need to connect with God in the craziness of everyday life.











If this post was meaningful to you, would you consider sharing it with a friend by clicking on one of the buttons below? Did you know you can receive bi-weekly Hungry for God posts sent directly to your email inbox? Visit http://www.lori-benotweary.blogspot.com and click on the link in the right hand corner to Subscribe Via Email.

Copyright 2018 by Lori Hatcher

5 Simple Things that Make Husbands Feel Loved and Respected -- A Crosswalk Post

 

Today I'm a guest-contributor over at Crosswalk.com. 

"The male need for respect and affirmation, especially from his woman, is so hard-wired and so critical that three out of four men would rather feel unloved than disrespected or inadequate.” 
This shocking statement underscores what Shaunti Feldhan, author of For Women Only , discovered when she surveyed more than 1,000 men: If a man feels disrespected, he’s going to feel unloved. If we want to love our husband in the way he needs us to be loved, we must ensure he feels our respect. 
Sadly, modern culture and misguided l feminism have maligned and misrepresented God’s command in Ephesians 5:33 instructing a wife to respect her husband. Wise Christians, however, know that respect can be one of the most powerful forces for good in a marriage. It demonstrates love, honors Christ, and empowers a husband to become all God created him to be. 
If you’d like to unlock the power of respect in your marriage, here are 5 simple things that will make your husband feel loved and respected.
To read the rest of "5 Simple Things to Help Your Husband Feel Loved and Respected" on Crosswalk.com, CLICK HERE.  





Does Your Faith Need Refreshing?

That's in the Bible? I've never noticed that before!

It's probably been too long since you've newly discovered a story that speaks to your soul or a verse that pops with truth. But that's about to change!


Refresh Your Faith contains 66 culturally relevant, story-driven devotions, one from each book of the Bible. Each real-life story spotlights an unusual verse or Bible passage that you may have overlooked in your usual Bible reading. Lori Hatcher challenges you with additional features like an uncommon thought to ponder; an unusual faith action step; and an unfamiliar passage suggestion for additional Bible reading.

When the fabulous has become familiar and your quiet times are more like nap times, it's time to step out of spiritual boredom and ignite the spark that will keep you growing. No matter where you are on your faith journey, Lori's conversational and engaging style will challenge you to think about things you've never thought about before.

“Real-life inspiration and candid wit. These 5-minute devotions will change your life.” —Psychologist and best-selling author Dr. Kevin Leman, commenting on Lori Hatcher's devotional style




Are you hungry for God, but starving for time? 
I’d love to send you a 5-minute e-mail devotion twice a week to start your day off with the Lord. 

Sign up for a free subscription to Hungry for God by CLICKING HERE.
Then, be sure to VALIDATE the confirmation email you receive. 

Note: I promise never to spam you or share your email address.

Because busy women need to connect with God in the craziness of everyday life.




If this post was meaningful to you, would you consider sharing it with a friend by clicking on one of the buttons below? Did you know you can receive bi-weekly Hungry for God posts sent directly to your email inbox? Visit http://www.lori-benotweary.blogspot.com and click on the link in the right hand corner to Subscribe Via Email.

Copyright 2018 by Lori Hatcher

Today I'm a guest-contributor over at Crosswalk.com...

 

Today I'm a guest-contributor over at Crosswalk.com. 

"The male need for respect and affirmation, especially from his woman, is so hard-wired and so critical that three out of four men would rather feel unloved than disrespected or inadequate.” 
This shocking statement underscores what Shaunti Feldhan, author of For Women Only , discovered when she surveyed more than 1,000 men: If a man feels disrespected, he’s going to feel unloved. If we want to love our husband in the way he needs us to be loved, we must ensure he feels our respect. 
Sadly, modern culture and misguided l feminism have maligned and misrepresented God’s command in Ephesians 5:33 instructing a wife to respect her husband. Wise Christians, however, know that respect can be one of the most powerful forces for good in a marriage. It demonstrates love, honors Christ, and empowers a husband to become all God created him to be. 
If you’d like to unlock the power of respect in your marriage, here are 5 simple things that will make your husband feel loved and respected.
To read the rest of "5 Simple Things to Help Your Husband Feel Loved and Respected" on Crosswalk.com, CLICK HERE.  





Does Your Faith Need Refreshing?

That's in the Bible? I've never noticed that before!

It's probably been too long since you've newly discovered a story that speaks to your soul or a verse that pops with truth. But that's about to change!


Refresh Your Faith contains 66 culturally relevant, story-driven devotions, one from each book of the Bible. Each real-life story spotlights an unusual verse or Bible passage that you may have overlooked in your usual Bible reading. Lori Hatcher challenges you with additional features like an uncommon thought to ponder; an unusual faith action step; and an unfamiliar passage suggestion for additional Bible reading.

When the fabulous has become familiar and your quiet times are more like nap times, it's time to step out of spiritual boredom and ignite the spark that will keep you growing. No matter where you are on your faith journey, Lori's conversational and engaging style will challenge you to think about things you've never thought about before.

“Real-life inspiration and candid wit. These 5-minute devotions will change your life.” —Psychologist and best-selling author Dr. Kevin Leman, commenting on Lori Hatcher's devotional style




Are you hungry for God, but starving for time? 
I’d love to send you a 5-minute e-mail devotion twice a week to start your day off with the Lord. 

Sign up for a free subscription to Hungry for God by CLICKING HERE.
Then, be sure to VALIDATE the confirmation email you receive. 

Note: I promise never to spam you or share your email address.

Because busy women need to connect with God in the craziness of everyday life.




If this post was meaningful to you, would you consider sharing it with a friend by clicking on one of the buttons below? Did you know you can receive bi-weekly Hungry for God posts sent directly to your email inbox? Visit http://www.lori-benotweary.blogspot.com and click on the link in the right hand corner to Subscribe Via Email.

Copyright 2018 by Lori Hatcher

Faith, Trust, and Sushi (And an update on my new book)

Dear faithful friends,

Because you've blessed me so often with your prayers, I know you are praying people. I'd like to ask you to pray now. 
When Our Daily Bread Publishing extended a contract to write a devotional companion to Refresh Your Faith sharing uncommon devotions on the topic of prayer, I felt honored, humbled, and slightly afraid. I've been on a journey of prayer for more than 20 years, but I feel inadequate to tackle such an awe-inspiring and critical topic.  
But God called me to this task. He 's provided the opportunity, and He'll enable me to complete the project. 
Will you pray for me?
The manuscript is coming along well, but I need God's insight and empowering every day. I need courage to  trust that God is working through me to accomplish His purposes. (You know how easy it is to doubt our abilities and our callings.)
As a thank you, I wanted share a sample devotion. I pray our precious Father speaks to your heart today, grows your trust, and strengthens your faith.
I love you!
~Lori




"If a son asks for bread from any father among you, will he give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will he give him a serpent instead of a fish?"
Luke 11:11 
I’d been traveling for almost twenty-four hours. I’d flown across the continent, over Alaska, and high above the Pacific Ocean to Asia. When I landed, the clock said 8 a.m., but my body knew better. Somewhere between Columbia, South Carolina, and Tokyo, Japan, I’d lost fourteen hours and missed several meals. I was exhausted—and starving. 
After I exchanged hugs and happy squeals with my daughter and son-in-law, Michael announced, "You have to eat sushi for your first meal in Japan."
Still queasy from flying, lack of sleep, and jet lag, I wasn’t so sure. “I’m willing to be adventurous,” I said, “but I don’t do raw. And nothing strange. No fish eggs or octopus tentacles.” 
“No worries,” my son-in-law said. “Not all sushi is raw. You can trust me. I’ll take good care of you.” 

Before long we were seated in their favorite restaurant. There Michael navigated the menu with ease and ordered several entrees with me in mind. He lifted the brightly-colored plates off the conveyer belt that wound through the restaurant and presented them with a flourish. 
After my daughter gave me a quick tutorial on how to use chopsticks, I was ready to dig in. The food was so delicious, I ate it all—except for one piece that slipped out from between my chopsticks and landed in my lap. 
I’ve been a (cooked) sushi fan ever since. 
When Jesus’ disciples asked Him to teach them to pray, He reminded them that faith and trust go hand in hand. This remains true for us today. We must believe God hears and answers prayers, and we must trust that the answer He sends will be good. 
Sitting there that day in the “sushi-go-round,” I had to admit my limited understanding and have faith in my son-in-law’s ability to provide what I needed. Then I had to trust him to furnish what was best for me. 
Because he loves me, he took my needs, desires, (and aversions) into account. When we pray to our heavenly Father, the God who created us and loves us, we must demonstrate faith in His ability to provide exactly what we need. 
And trust that it will be good. 
“If a son asks for bread from any father among you, will he give him a stone?” Jesus asked his disciples. “If you then, being evil [compared to God], know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give . . .” (John 11:13). 
I’ll admit, some of the items that arrived at our table looked a little questionable. One was downright scary. But because I knew I could trust my son-in-law to have my best interests at heart, I picked up my chopsticks and ate what he provided with confidence. 
We can rest in the knowledge that God is even more trustworthy than my son-in-law. He created us, fashioned our hearts and minds, and has good purposes for our lives. He knows what we need even better than we do and is fully able to provide it. 
We can trust him. 
Praise Prompt: Thank you, Father, for being trustworthy and good. You, who knit me together in my mother’s womb, are fully capable of ordering the events of my life. I trust you to provide exactly what I need just when I need it. Because You know me even better than I know myself, I will rest in your timing and provision. Thank you for being a God who loves to give good gifts to your children. Grow my faith and establish my trust. In the strong name of Jesus I ask, Amen. 
Live It Out: Think about a time when God answered one of your prayers differently than you expected. As you look back, can you see glimpses of God’s good purpose in that answer? Does it inspire you to trust Him more the next time? If you can’t see good, remember that we “see through a glass darkly” on this earth. Only in heaven will we fully understand all God’s purposes behind the events of our lives. Until then, ask Him to grow your faith and trust as you pray.



Does Your Faith Need Refreshing?

That's in the Bible? I've never noticed that before!

It's probably been too long since you've newly discovered a story that speaks to your soul or a verse that pops with truth. But that's about to change!


Refresh Your Faith contains 66 culturally relevant, story-driven devotions, one from each book of the Bible. Each real-life story spotlights an unusual verse or Bible passage that you may have overlooked in your usual Bible reading. Lori Hatcher challenges you with additional features like an uncommon thought to ponder; an unusual faith action step; and an unfamiliar passage suggestion for additional Bible reading.

When the fabulous has become familiar and your quiet times are more like nap times, it's time to step out of spiritual boredom and ignite the spark that will keep you growing. No matter where you are on your faith journey, Lori's conversational and engaging style will challenge you to think about things you've never thought about before.

“Real-life inspiration and candid wit. These 5-minute devotions will change your life.” —Psychologist and best-selling author Dr. Kevin Leman, commenting on Lori Hatcher's devotional style




Are you hungry for God, but starving for time? 
I’d love to send you a 5-minute e-mail devotion twice a week to start your day off with the Lord. 

Sign up for a free subscription to Hungry for God by CLICKING HERE.
Then, be sure to VALIDATE the confirmation email you receive. 

Note: I promise never to spam you or share your email address.

Because busy women need to connect with God in the craziness of everyday life.




If this post was meaningful to you, would you consider sharing it with a friend by clicking on one of the buttons below? Did you know you can receive bi-weekly Hungry for God posts sent directly to your email inbox? Visit http://www.lori-benotweary.blogspot.com and click on the link in the right hand corner to Subscribe Via Email.

Copyright 2018 by Lori Hatcher

10 Things I Hope Never Go Back to Normal after COVID-19

I’ll admit up front what most would agree to—2020 hasn’t been my favorite year. The changes brought about by the pandemic—my husband’s job furlough, the dangers of working in a healthcare environment, and the stress of helping my aging parents as they sheltered at home have taken their toll. 

Add to this the scarcity of supplies, uncertainty about the future, and the difficulty of ministering to our church body during COVID-19, and I’ll readily admit—this year has stretched me. I’d be lying if I said I haven’t mourned the losses. While no one close to me has died, I’ve sorrowed over those who have. 

On a smaller scale, I’ve shed a tear or two over the once-in-a-lifetime vacation. Over my granddaughter‘s first piano recital. Over the week at the beach. And my favorite writer's conferences. Like you, I won’t miss the fear, the masks, or the six-foot distancing in the grocery store—and everywhere else. I look forward to enjoying people again instead of secretly wondering if they’re carrying a virus that could endanger my family’s health. 

But in the wreckage of the pandemic I’ve found treasure—sparkling gems worth showcasing. Like other challenging times, 2020 has taught me lessons I’ll benefit from for a lifetime. We have changed as a society in a major way, but in some ways for the better. 

Here are ten things I hope never go back to normal after COVID-19.  

CLICK HERE to read the rest of this article on Crosswalk.com.

Does Your Faith Need Refreshing?

That's in the Bible? I've never noticed that before!

It's probably been too long since you've newly discovered a story that speaks to your soul or a verse that pops with truth. But that's about to change!
 

Refresh Your Faith contains 66 culturally relevant, story-driven devotions, one from each book of the Bible. Each real-life story spotlights an unusual verse or Bible passage that you may have overlooked in your usual Bible reading. Lori Hatcher challenges you with additional features like an uncommon thought to ponder; an unusual faith action step; and an unfamiliar passage suggestion for additional Bible reading.

When the fabulous has become familiar and your quiet times are more like nap times, it's time to step out of spiritual boredom and ignite the spark that will keep you growing. No matter where you are on your faith journey, Lori's conversational and engaging style will challenge you to think about things you've never thought about before.

“Real-life inspiration and candid wit. These 5-minute devotions will change your life.” —Psychologist and best-selling author Dr. Kevin Leman, commenting on Lori Hatcher's devotional style

Are you hungry for God, but starving for time? 
I’d love to send you a 5-minute e-mail devotion twice a week to start your day off with the Lord. 

Sign up for a free subscription to Hungry for God by CLICKING HERE.
Then, be sure to VALIDATE the confirmation email you receive. 

Note: I promise never to spam you or share your email address.

Because busy women need to connect with God in the craziness of everyday life.

If this post was meaningful to you, would you consider sharing it with a friend by clicking on one of the buttons below? Did you know you can receive bi-weekly Hungry for God posts sent directly to your email inbox? Visit http://www.lori-benotweary.blogspot.com and click on the link in the right hand corner to Subscribe Via Email.

Copyright 2018 by Lori Hatcher

Why We Need Quiet and How to Get It

We live in a noisy world.

Devices ding, ping, jangle, and whistle. Media delivers a non-stop monologue. And then there are those blessed people whom God has placed in our lives—those who call us Mom, Dad, Husband, Wife, Grandma, Grandpa, Co-worker, Boss, Friend, Fellow-church member, and Passerby.

And if outside noise isn’t enough, there’s also a whole lot of noise in our heads. Sometimes it’s productive, because it reminds us of important stuff we need to do, but most of the time, it’s just environmental overflow from the hubbub around us. It elbows its way into the quiet spots in our heads like a 300-lb. man squeezing himself into the seat beside us on an airplane.

Today I’d like to share three reasons we need quiet times in our lives:


1. Quiet allows us to hear God’s voice. As I study God’s Word, I see times when he thunders from the mountain top or shouts through a storm. Most often, however, he speaks to his children in the still, small voice of the Holy Spirit in our souls.

Think of Elijah on the mountaintop and David in the open fields, or Daniel in his prayer closet and Jesus during his early morning worship times. Sometimes he shouts over the din or our lives through an accident, illness, crisis, or family emergency, but often, even then, his voice is muffled by the chaos around us. 

Ralph Waldo Emerson said, “Be silent, that we may hear the whisper of God.”

2. Quiet allows us to hear our voice.

Quiet spaces in our minds are open fields where God can plant the seeds of creativity and inspiration. When we still ourselves, turn off our devices, and wait in quiet reflection, it’s amazing what we think.

On a recent early-morning walk in the woods, I cleared my mind of clutter and invited the Lord into my consciousness.  As my thoughts wandered, I began to connect Scripture with an idea for a blog post. Then I thought of a lovely gift idea for my daughter for Christmas. Before the walk had ended, I had the solution to a problem I’d been wrestling with, another blog post idea, and the basis for a women’s ministry presentation.

Peter Drucker, an American businessman, said, “Follow effective action with quiet reflection. From the quiet reflection will come even more effective action.” Building times of quiet thought into our days allows us to hear our own voices and leaves room for our creativity to blossom.

3. Quiet restores our souls. 

Psalm 23 reminds us that God the Good Shepherd invites us to lie down in green pastures, leads us beside still waters, and restores our souls. Listen to the words the psalmist chose to describe the place where God refreshes us: lie down (not race around), green pastures (not black asphalt), and still waters (not raging rivers). Peaceful, hushed places, whether they’re on the top of a mountain or the corner or your bedroom, are restorative and invigorating.

Keep in mind that the place is less important than the presence. When we carve out time to sit in stillness before the Lord, we gain a fresh perspective, spiritual energy for the day, and hope for the future.

I hope by now you’re convinced that intentional periods of quiet are healthy, productive, and necessary. But the same busy world that steals our quiet also often prevents it.

How can we build times of quiet into our lives? Here are three ideas: 

1. Make an early morning quiet time a priority.

You may not naturally be a morning person, but it’s worth retraining your biological clock. There’s a reason Jesus, probably the busiest soul on the planet, met with God early in the morning. I’ve found that if I wait until nighttime/bedtime to have my quiet time, I fall asleep in the middle of it. 

2. Look for moments of quiet during the day, and instead of pulling out your cell phone to check Facebook, open your Bible app, and meditate on one verse of Scripture.

Or think about what you read that morning in your quiet time. Ask God to speak to you. Then direct your mind to conscious listening. Jot down what you think you heard. (Hint: One way to know if it’s actually God speaking is that what you hear always agrees with Scripture.)

3. Turn off the noise. 

When you’re driving, walking, or working around the house, instead of turning on the TV or your Ipod, listen instead to the silence. You’ll find mental room to think and pray if your mind isn’t pulled in a thousand different directions based on what you’re hearing from an outside source. Don’t be afraid of silence.

"Make time for the quiet moments, as God whispers, and the world is loud."

I’d love to hear your thoughts on how to build quiet into your days. Do you have a suggestion on how to capture or create moments of silence? Have you experienced on of the benefits I’ve listed above, or maybe you’ve thought of one I haven’t? Leave a comment below and share your thoughts.

Today, why not begin your day with a few moments of silence? And after you've stilled your soul and rested in God's peace, allow Kari Jobe's "Be Still My Soul" set the tone for the rest of your day.










Does Your Faith Need Refreshing?

That's in the Bible? I've never noticed that before!

It's probably been too long since you've newly discovered a story that speaks to your soul or a verse that pops with truth. But that's about to change!


Refresh Your Faith contains 66 culturally relevant, story-driven devotions, one from each book of the Bible. Each real-life story spotlights an unusual verse or Bible passage that you may have overlooked in your usual Bible reading. Lori Hatcher challenges you with additional features like an uncommon thought to ponder; an unusual faith action step; and an unfamiliar passage suggestion for additional Bible reading.

When the fabulous has become familiar and your quiet times are more like nap times, it's time to step out of spiritual boredom and ignite the spark that will keep you growing. No matter where you are on your faith journey, Lori's conversational and engaging style will challenge you to think about things you've never thought about before.

“Real-life inspiration and candid wit. These 5-minute devotions will change your life.” —Psychologist and best-selling author Dr. Kevin Leman, commenting on Lori Hatcher's devotional style




Are you hungry for God, but starving for time? 
I’d love to send you a 5-minute e-mail devotion twice a week to start your day off with the Lord. 

Sign up for a free subscription to Hungry for God by CLICKING HERE.
Then, be sure to VALIDATE the confirmation email you receive. 

Note: I promise never to spam you or share your email address.






If this post was meaningful to you, would you consider sharing it with a friend by clicking on one of the buttons below? Did you know you can receive bi-weekly Hungry for God posts sent directly to your email inbox? Visit http://www.lori-benotweary.blogspot.com and click on the link in the right hand corner to Subscribe Via Email.

Copyright 2018 by Lori Hatcher

How are You During COVID-19?

During one Fun Friday at Gigi's house, we played in a pool of spaghetti!
Greetings, friends, 

It’s hard to believe almost six months have passed since COVID-19 went from being a far away news blip to a force that has totally disrupted our lives. 

Hanging out with Mom and Dad. Aren't they cute?Many continue to shelter at home. Others have resumed a sterilized and anemic version of their normal routine. Still others are working at home, homeschooling your children, or caring for your elderly and high risk family members. 


Over the past six months, we’ve gained a whole new vocabulary. Words that used to be limited to microbiology textbooks and healthcare practicums have become every day vernacular. Antibodies, PPE, herd immunity, cross-contamination. Grocery stores look like a cross between a bank robbers convention and a surgical team. Someone could make off with thousands of dollars from the till and no one would be able to give a physical description. “Uh, well, he was a tall guy wearing a mask . . .” 


My family and I are well. Every week when I suit up in my twelve layers of PPE to care for the dental patients in our practice, I pray three things: “Lord, keep me safe. Keep my patients safe. Help me minister to them in Jesus’ name.” When my husband and I aren’t working, we help care for the grandkids and assist my parents who are sheltering at home. 

At our small church, where my husband is the bi-vocational pastor, we’ve settled into a hybrid of in-person, Zoom, and Facebook Live “gatherings.” We’re ministering to those who want to meet in person, those who prefer not to at this time, and those whose health doesn’t allow them to attend. It stretches and challenges us. We don’t have a team of sound, computer, and video guys. Just Hubby and me. Thank the Lord we can Google what we don’t know. 

How are you? I hope you and your loved ones are well. That you’re embracing faith over fear. That you’re looking for ways to minister in Jesus’ name despite the challenges. 

I pray you’re using this time to draw closer to God and to each other. To value what you once took for granted (church services, gathering with friends, Clorox Wipes). To explore hobbies and projects you’ve always wanted to do but didn’t have time to do them. 

I pray for you often, the Hungry for God family. For your health, your safety, your sanity, and, most of all, your spiritual life. I ask God to help your soul to prosper and to give you opportunities to sow faith into the lives of those around you. 

God has a good plan for these uncertain times. Rest assured, His plans will not be thwarted. Even now, He is drawing people to Himself and making us more like Jesus. 

Now, may I share some happy news? 

You may recall that my third book, Refresh Your Faith, Uncommon Devotions from Every Book of the Bible , released in April in the middle of the pandemic. I wouldn’t have chosen that launch date, but God had a plan that was wiser than mine. Reader after reader has said, “I don’t know when you wrote this, but it’s perfect for what we’re dealing with right now.” Reviewers have used the words hope-filled, timely, relevant, and inspiring. 

If you’ve read a copy of Refresh Your Faith, would you be so kind as to leave a review on Amazon? When a book reaches 100 reviews, Amazon begins to promote it. Currently I have 84 honest reviews – only 16 more to go. Woohoo! Then I can help more people refresh their faith and fall in love with God’s Word. 

If you haven’t read a copy, why not hop over to Amazon (CLICK HERE) and read what others are saying about it? If you like what you read, order a copy for yourself and one for a friend. 

And finally, may I share some exciting news? 

I’m working on a new book! A companion book to Refresh Your Faith. Its working title is Refresh Your Prayers, Uncommon Devotions to Unlock Power and Praise. 

Here’s a description: 

We know Bible reading and prayer are vital parts of our faith, but what happens when our prayer lives become stagnant and our quiet times grow stale? We need something more than just familiar verses and the command to pray. 

In Refresh Your Prayers, Uncommon Devotions to Unlock Power and Praise, we'll enjoy relevant, five-minute devotions that spotlight unusual prayer verses in the Bible. Each devotion ends with either a Power Point, a spiritual truth to empower your faith; or a Praise Prompt, a short prayer designed to magnify God and make your faith soar. The Live It Out section challenges you to apply what you’ve learned right now for immediate change. 

But I need your help: 

Would you hit Reply and share some of your questions about the exciting and mysterious process of prayer? What have you always wondered about? What do you struggle to understand? What do you wish you knew more about in regards to prayer? I can’t promise to have all the answers, but I’d love to join you on the journey of exploration. 

Thanks for reading every week, leaving comments, and allowing me to be part of your faith life. And remember: leave your review of Refresh Your Faith and share your questions about prayer in the comment box below. 

I love you all. 

Stay safe. Keep your eyes on Jesus. 

Love, 

Lori



Does Your Faith Need Refreshing?

That's in the Bible? I've never noticed that before!

It's probably been too long since you've newly discovered a story that speaks to your soul or a verse that pops with truth. But that's about to change!


Refresh Your Faith contains 66 culturally relevant, story-driven devotions, one from each book of the Bible. Each real-life story spotlights an unusual verse or Bible passage that you may have overlooked in your usual Bible reading. Lori Hatcher challenges you with additional features like an uncommon thought to ponder; an unusual faith action step; and an unfamiliar passage suggestion for additional Bible reading.

When the fabulous has become familiar and your quiet times are more like nap times, it's time to step out of spiritual boredom and ignite the spark that will keep you growing. No matter where you are on your faith journey, Lori's conversational and engaging style will challenge you to think about things you've never thought about before.

“Real-life inspiration and candid wit. These 5-minute devotions will change your life.” —Psychologist and best-selling author Dr. Kevin Leman, commenting on Lori Hatcher's devotional style




Are you hungry for God, but starving for time? 
I’d love to send you a 5-minute e-mail devotion twice a week to start your day off with the Lord. 

Sign up for a free subscription to Hungry for God by CLICKING HERE.
Then, be sure to VALIDATE the confirmation email you receive. 

Note: I promise never to spam you or share your email address.

Because busy women need to connect with God in the craziness of everyday life.




If this post was meaningful to you, would you consider sharing it with a friend by clicking on one of the buttons below? Did you know you can receive bi-weekly Hungry for God posts sent directly to your email inbox? Visit http://www.lori-benotweary.blogspot.com and click on the link in the right hand corner to Subscribe Via Email.

Copyright 2018 by Lori Hatcher

4 Steps When Life Gets Hard

Betrayed, persecuted, grieving, uncertain, confused, abused, afraid, and struggling. 

Can you identify with any of these words? Most of us can, especially these days. 

Life is a struggle, and most days we feel the angst of living in a difficult world, with difficult people, under difficult circumstances. Throw a pandemic, societal unrest, and economic hardship in the mix, and you've got a formula for a major panic attack.

I think this is why God includes stories about real people in the Bible. Reading other people’s stories, the good, the bad, and the ugly, gives us perspective and, most important, hope. 

King David was a man who experienced just about everything life can throw at someone. His memoir includes a humble beginning and an exalted ending. He came to faith early, and God used him in mighty ways to lead the nation of Israel. He also disappointed God greatly and lived much of his life with the consequences of his sin. 

The book of Psalms records many of his soul-searching, gut-wrenching conversations with God. Psalm 71 is one of them. Listen to David’s cry: 

“O Lord, I have come to you for protection; don’t let me be disgraced. Save me and rescue me, for you do what is right. . . . in my old age, don’t set me aside. Don’t abandon me when my strength is failing. For my enemies are whispering against me. They are plotting together to kill me. They say, ‘God has abandoned him. Let’s go and get him, for no one will help him now’” (v 1,2, 9-11 NLT). 

His example reminds us that it’s OK to pour out our hearts to God when we are distressed. But Psalm 71 isn’t just a lament and cry for help. It’s a prescription for how to weather difficult circumstances. 


Listen to David’s 4-step plan as outlined in verses 13-17: 

1. Don’t lose hope. David expresses his commitment to trust God: “But I will keep on hoping for your help.” No matter what happens, we must never stop believing that God hears and answers our prayers. 

2. Don’t stop praising God. “I will praise you more and more,” he says. “I will tell everyone about your righteousness. All day long I will proclaim your saving power.” Praising God reminds ourselves and others that God is good, even when our circumstances are not. 

3. Don’t forget what God has done. “I will praise your mighty deeds, O Sovereign Lord.” Reflect on the many ways he has worked in the lives of faithful men, and remember how he has worked in your own life. God’s long history of faithful care for his children strengthens our faith, because we know God is the same yesterday, today, and forever. 

4. Don’t stop sharing your faith with others. “I will tell everyone that you alone are just.” Sometimes when difficult circumstances enter our lives, we’re tempted to slander God with our words or our lack of faith. We must resist, choosing instead to take a faith stand and continue to testify of God’s goodness, no matter what. 

If you’re betrayed, persecuted, grieving, uncertain, confused, abused, or struggling, King David’s four-step plan for weathering difficult circumstances is powerful and effective. 

My prayer for you is that you will soon be able to testify, as David did, “You who have done great things; O God, who is like You? You, who have shown me great and severe troubles, shall revive me again, and bring me up again from the depths of the earth. You shall increase my greatness, and comfort me on every side” (v 19-21). 

What about you? When you struggle, which examples from Scripture give you hope? Leave a comment below and share your thoughts. If you’re reading via email, click here to visit Hungry for God online, scroll down to the end of the post, and leave a comment.






Does Your Faith Need Refreshing?

That's in the Bible? I've never noticed that before!

It's probably been too long since you've newly discovered a story that speaks to your soul or a verse that pops with truth. But that's about to change!


Refresh Your Faith contains 66 culturally relevant, story-driven devotions, one from each book of the Bible. Each real-life story spotlights an unusual verse or Bible passage that you may have overlooked in your usual Bible reading. Lori Hatcher challenges you with additional features like an uncommon thought to ponder; an unusual faith action step; and an unfamiliar passage suggestion for additional Bible reading.

When the fabulous has become familiar and your quiet times are more like nap times, it's time to step out of spiritual boredom and ignite the spark that will keep you growing. No matter where you are on your faith journey, Lori's conversational and engaging style will challenge you to think about things you've never thought about before.

“Real-life inspiration and candid wit. These 5-minute devotions will change your life.” —Psychologist and best-selling author Dr. Kevin Leman, commenting on Lori Hatcher's devotional style




Are you hungry for God, but starving for time? 
I’d love to send you a 5-minute e-mail devotion twice a week to start your day off with the Lord. 

Sign up for a free subscription to Hungry for God by CLICKING HERE.
Then, be sure to VALIDATE the confirmation email you receive. 

Note: I promise never to spam you or share your email address.

Because busy women need to connect with God in the craziness of everyday life.




If this post was meaningful to you, would you consider sharing it with a friend by clicking on one of the buttons below? Did you know you can receive bi-weekly Hungry for God posts sent directly to your email inbox? Visit http://www.lori-benotweary.blogspot.com and click on the link in the right hand corner to Subscribe Via Email.

Copyright 2018 by Lori Hatcher