Lori Hatcher's Blog: Refresh Blog, page 29

When It's Time to Take a Stand Guest Post on Revive Our Hearts Leaders Blog

When It’s Time to Take a Stand
When was the last time you had to take an unpopular stand? We sometimes hear high-profile news stories of Christians and Christian companies refusing to compromise on matters of faith or conscience. Some win victories, while others suffer loss.History brims with examples of people and groups who challenged government, culture, or tradition. Some protested in defiance and anger. They demanded their rights and used violence to champion them. Others stood vocally but respectfully in the face of oppression, prejudice, or injustice.We’ll probably never take on a king or the Supreme Court, but we will face circumstances that will require us to stand for what we believe. Thankfully, Scripture shows us how to do it. . . . Today it's my honor to guest blog on Revive Our Hearts Leadership Connection. To read the rest of this post, CLICK HERE


Update on Refresh Your Faith!
In less than a month, Refresh Your Faith, Uncommon Devotions from Every Book of the Bible will officially launch. Early reports tell me that ChristianBook.com is offering a 27% discount and will begin shipping tomorrow. Amazon has it available for pre-order. 
Will you join me in asking God to direct this book to everyone who is looking for a way to energize their quiet time and gain new insights into God's Word? I especially hope to reach those who find themselves approaching their quiet time out of duty rather than delight. 

Thank you so much!



HOT OFF THE PRESS: FREE Bible Study Guide and Small Group Discussion Questions! Did you know there is a FREE Bible study guide and discussion questions to accompany the Hungry for God...Starving for Time devotional? Click HERE to download your copy. Now you'll have everything you need to use Hungry for God as the basis for your next small group Bible study. 




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

6 Ways the Coronavirus Can Be a Gift

If you asked me to choose words to describe the global pandemic and the novel coronavirus that has caused it, I’d use words like plague, tragedy, and curse. I’ve used the word evil several times, too. 

These words accurately describe the biological enemy that is ravaging our world, but they’re not the only words. 

John Piper, in his article, “How Do We Make Sense of the Coronavirus,” called it “God’s thunderclap.” Others have characterized it as a wake up call and a warning. 

Today I realized it can also be a gift. 


With no desire to minimize the tremendous hardship and death this virus has caused, I invite you to consider a different perspective, one that can bring meaning and hope to our lives if we embrace it. 

6 Ways the Coronavirus Can Be a Gift 

1. It moves us to serve. 


From fetching groceries and prescriptions for our elderly neighbors to working long hours stocking shelves and delivering supplies, we are lifting our eyes from ourselves and our self-focused lives. 

Neighbors are coordinating efforts to provide transportation for the blind, the sick, and the handicapped. Grandparents are caring for their grandchildren so their adult children can work. Healthcare workers on the front lines are risking their lives caring for critically ill patients in ways they’ve never done before. 

Many of us, some for the first time, are looking beyond ourselves and our needs to consider the needs of others. While it’s extremely important to minimize contact and continue to self-isolate, we can creatively serve each other without incurring unnecessary risks. 

2. It moves us to give. 


 Neighbors are sharing supplies (even toilet paper) from their abundance and from their poverty. They’re donating their time, resources, and skill to help those in need. Churches are establishing distribution centers for food and supplies. Communities are banding together to identify and provide for the neediest among them. 

On a grander scale, Samaritan’s Purse, a Christian disaster relief organization, airlifted a field hospital stocked with equipment and medical specialists to Milan, Italy, the epicenter of the coronavirus pandemic. I smiled to see how, in my neighborhood, generous hearts are reaching out. 

On our neighborhood Facebook page, several women lamented about struggling to prepare meals for their families without going to the grocery store. I have two carrots I’d gladly trade to someone for an onion, one posted. 

Yes! another replied, I need carrots for the vegetable soup I’m making. I’ll leave your onion on the porch. 

I have extra potatoes if anyone needs them, a third chimed in. All over our world, people are sharing what they have to help others. 

3. It moves us to seek God. 

As we encounter life-changing restrictions and fear-inducing circumstances, people are asking questions, thinking deeply, and searching for answers. Restricted from normal activities, we have more time and mental space to think, and these thoughts are leading us to God. 

We’re reading our Bibles because we are no longer “too busy.” We’re seeking community with other believers because we no longer take it for granted. We’re examining our lives and making much-needed adjustments because we realize we’ve gotten careless and cavalier. 

“You will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart. I will be found by you, says the LORD,” Jeremiah 29:13-14 reminds us, and it is true. 

4. It moves us to pray. 

Like King Jehoshaphat of Judah, threatened by an army far greater than his nation had manpower or strength to resist, we kneel before the God of heaven and earth. We pray earnestly for divine intervention and abundant mercy. 

“If calamity comes upon us, whether the sword of judgment, or plague or famine, we will stand in your presence before this temple that bears your Name and will cry out to you in our distress, and you will hear us and save us,” Jehoshaphat prayed. 

“For we have no power to face this vast army that is attacking us. We do not know what to do, but our eyes are upon you." (2 Chronicles 20:9, 12) 

5. It moves us to share our faith. 

In a world where fear drives every conversation, we can speak counter-cultural words of truth and hope. We can share God’s Word, which tells us not to fear. We can pray with those who are sick, frightened, or needy. We can point the lost to the Savior who wants to give them eternal life. 



Creative churches and pastors are broadcasting their services over the internet, sharing transcripts online, and gathering their members together on Zoom and Skype. Our little church’s Facebook Live service had almost one hundred percent member attendance with several visitors. The replay of it has reached more people than we could in a month of Sundays. 

First Peter 3:15 reminds us, “always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear.” The coronavirus is causing people to ask. 

6. It moves us to look for God. 

As my former pastor, Dick Lincoln, prepared to visit a church member who had just been diagnosed with cancer, he prayed for words of comfort to share. By the time he arrived at the woman’s home, God had given him the words. 

“Every day,” he told her, “look for the hand of God. He has promised to walk with you through every step of this journey. If you look for Him, you will see Him.” 

Embracing the Faith Perspective 

Our world is facing an era unlike any we’ve ever experienced. Fear tells us to panic, but faith tells us to trust. By viewing the coronavirus as a gift instead of a curse, God can open our eyes to the myriad of possibilities for good that can come from this. As we view this disease as a gift, we can stake our faith claim on the words of God in Isaiah 43:1-5: 

"Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine. “When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. 

“For I am the LORD, your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior. . . Since you are precious and honored in my sight, and because I love you . . . Do not be afraid, for I am with you.” 

Now it’s your turn. What gifts have you witnessed that have come about because of the coronavirus? Leave a comment below and encourage us all. If you’re reading by email, click HERE to visit Hungry for God online and comment. Do you know someone who could benefit from this post? I’d be honored if you’d share it.


Update on Refresh Your Faith!
In less than a month, Refresh Your Faith, Uncommon Devotions from Every Book of the Bible will officially launch. Early reports tell me that ChristianBook.com is offering a 27% discount and will begin shipping tomorrow. Amazon has it available for pre-order. 
Will you join me in asking God to direct this book to everyone who is looking for a way to energize their quiet time and gain new insights into God's Word? I especially hope to reach those who find themselves approaching their quiet time out of duty rather than delight. 

Thank you so much!



HOT OFF THE PRESS: FREE Bible Study Guide and Small Group Discussion Questions! Did you know there is a FREE Bible study guide and discussion questions to accompany the Hungry for God...Starving for Time devotional? Click HERE to download your copy. Now you'll have everything you need to use Hungry for God as the basis for your next small group Bible study. 




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

Just a Bunch of Nuthin'. What Will Your Estate Look Like?

“What did you see?” I asked my friend Cathy. 

“Just a bunch of nuthin’.” 

Cathy is a treasure hunter. Every weekend she combs estate sales for valuable artwork, china, jewelry, and antiques. It’s a good day when she finds a rare piece of furniture buried in the contents of someone’s attic or a perfectly preserved brooch in the jumble of an old jewelry box. 

Cathy’s been doing this awhile and has developed a good eye. She can separate the junk from the gems with a quick glance. That’s why it didn’t take her long to scan the items offered at the sale we attended and declare, “No valuables here. Just a bunch of nuthin’.” 



My friend's assessment reminded me that one day, a similar treasure hunter will examine the contents of my estate. He’ll look at the way I invested my time, talents, and treasure with his all-seeing eye and pronounce a judgement. He’ll heap my works into a great big pile and set a match to it. 



“But on the judgment day, fire will reveal what kind of work each builder has done. The fire will show if a person's work has any value” (1 Cor. 3:13 NLT). 

“If what he has built survives, he will receive his reward. If it is burned up, he will suffer loss; he himself will be saved, but only as one escaping through the flames (v. 14-15 NIV). 

The stuff I’ve done to build my kingdom—poof. Gone like a marshmallow in a campfire. 

The stuff I’ve done to build God’s kingdom—refined. Shining like gold in a California stream. 

I’ve lived enough of my life to realize that temporary things bring temporary pleasure, but permanent things bring lasting joy. And rewards that will last for eternity. Because I fear losing my reward and dread the shame of squandering what God has entrusted me with, I must choose carefully how I spend my time, talent, and treasure. I must invest it wisely in things that matter in eternity.

I don’t want to stand before the Lord as he examines my life and hear him declare, “No valuables here. Just a bunch of nuthin’.” 

What about you? What changes might the Lord be calling you to make to ensure that you have a hefty pile of enduring treasure to lay at his feet on the judgment day? 

I’d love to hear your thoughts. I invite you to leave a comment below, or if you’re reading by email, CLICK HERE to visit Hungry for God online, scroll to the bottom of the post, and leave a comment there.





HOT OFF THE PRESS: FREE Bible Study Guide and Small Group Discussion Questions! Did you know there is a FREE Bible study guide and discussion questions to accompany the Hungry for God...Starving for Time devotional? Click HERE to download your copy. Now you'll have everything you need to use Hungry for God as the basis for your next small group Bible study. 




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

Don't Pray Unless You Want God to Answer -- How God Spoke in the Middle of an Argument

When I went to bed the other night, I knew who was right—I was. 

When I awakened the next morning, I wasn’t so sure. 

The conversation went over the cliff before I even realized it had changed direction. One minute my husband and I were brainstorming ways to fix a problem, and the next minute we were exchanging angry words. He stomped off to bed, and I stayed up and stewed. 

Horizontal or vertical, I’m confident we were both rehearsing how right we were and how wrong the other was. 

Why didn’t she just look up the information when I asked her to? She doesn’t listen, just goes off and does what she wants to do without listening to me. 

Why couldn’t he just wait patiently? I was on to something. Just a few more clicks, and I’d have had the information we needed. 

I considered sleeping in the guest bedroom, but wasn’t willing to give up my comfy bed to make a point. But you’d better believe I stayed waaaaay over on my side when I did come to bed.

Lord, I prayed silently as I clung to the edge of the mattress, pride is an ugly thing. Please help him realize he was wrong, and make him apologize for his unkind words. I don’t want us to spend tomorrow at odds with each other. Then I finished with a sincere but skeptical request: And if I was at fault in any way, please reveal this to me. Amen. 

The next morning, the strangest thing happened. When the alarm sounded on my iPhone, I heard God’s voice. And it didn't sound like Siri.

I’ve always loved the story in 1 Samuel 3, where God awakened the boy Samuel out of a sound sleep by audibly calling his name. But that’s not what happened to me. Instead, God spoke two sentences into my barely-awake consciousness: I’m sorry I was slow to look up the information you asked for. Will you please forgive me? 

As the words echoed in my mind, I knew the Lord had given me the words to speak. How did I know? 

First, the words were true. While I wasn’t totally at fault in the argument, I did have a part in it. 

Second, the words were a direct answer to the prayer I’d prayed before I fell asleep. 

Third, the words did not originate with me. When I’d gone to bed the night before, I was still convinced that I was all right, and he was all wrong. Those two sentences had to have come from God. 

Fourth, to say those words to my husband, I’d have to humble myself and take the first step toward reconciliation. Since this was the last thing my sinful flesh wanted to do, I was confident it was God’s idea, not mine.  

Once I realized I’d heard from God, I knew I had two choices: obey or disobey. 

“Anyone, then, who knows the good he ought to do and doesn't do it, sins,” (Jas. 4:17). 

I’d like to say I always obey, but I’d be lying. That day, however, I did what the Lord told me to do. As soon as my husband opened his eyes, I said the words God had planted into my brain. 

“I’m sorry I was slow to look up the information you asked for. Will you forgive me?” 

“I’m sorry I was grumpy with you. I was sleepy and impatient.” 

Kiss. Kiss. Hug. Hug. All was well again. 

Not all our arguments end so peacefully. Sometimes I hold on to my stubborn, sinful, self-righteousness and refuse to invite God into the strife. I fail to ask God to show me where I was wrong and focus instead on someone else’s sin or my own perceived innocence. 

But when I do pray and ask God to glorify himself, even in our arguments, I give him permission to work. Sometimes he speaks to me through his Word, sometimes through wise counsel, and sometimes, if I’m willing to listen, he speaks through the still, small voice of his Holy Spirit. 

If you’re in the middle of a conflict with someone, I invite you to pray about it. Watch to see how he answers. Be quick to obey what he tells you to do. You won’t regret it. 

What about you? How has the Lord spoken to you during times of conflict? I’d love to hear your story. Leave a comment below, or, if you’re reading by email, click HERE to visit Hungry for God online, scroll to the end of the post, and leave a comment there.






HOT OFF THE PRESS: FREE Bible Study Guide and Small Group Discussion Questions! Did you know there is a FREE Bible study guide and discussion questions to accompany the Hungry for God...Starving for Time devotional? Click HERE to download your copy. Now you'll have everything you need to use Hungry for God as the basis for your next small group Bible study. 




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

Fear Makes People Do Foolish Things

I’m a health care worker. In my profession, we receive regular updates from the CDC, the WHO, and the ADA. I catch an occasional FOX news update on the increasing concerns about the Corona virus. And I read my Bible every day.

Today in Luke 8 I read about a group of people who encountered something frightening that they’d never seen before—a local prophet going toe to toe with a man full of demons. Lots of demons. So many demons that when Jesus asked their name, their spokesman replied, “Legion” (v. 30).

In Jesus’ day, a Roman legion of soldiers consisted of about 6,000 men. The fact that the demon invoked this name gives us pretty clear evidence that not only was the man possessed, he was possessed by thousands of demons.

When Jesus confronted them, the demons acknowledged Jesus as the Son of God who possessed all power and authority over them. They begged Him not to torment them. And they offered Him an alternative solution to sending them back to Hell from whence they had come. “Send us into the herd of pigs.”


Have you ever been in the middle of a herd of pigs? Siri tells me the average weight of a domestic pig is about 440 pounds. That’s a big hunk of bacon.

Multiply 440 by, say, fifty. Now imagine yourself surrounded by 22,000 pounds of snorting, stinky, filthy ham hocks. Are you scared yet? Ready to swear off pork forever? Picturing yourself trampled to death by bacon on legs?

But wait. The terror has just begun.

For whatever reason (probably to show His glory and demonstrate that He had power over everything, including demons and pigs), Jesus agreed to the demon legion’s request. He commanded them to leave the man.

Out they went—straight into the herd of pigs.

Now not only do we have 4,000 pounds of pig flesh—fifty or more 400+ pound animals—we have 4,000 pounds of DEMON POSSESSED pig flesh.

The Gadarenes had never heard such squealing, screaming, stomping, biting, and stampeding as they witnessed that day. Pigs everywhere. Out of their minds. In torment because of the legion of demons that thrashed around under their skins.

Crazed and enraged, the pigs charged down the steep embankment straight into the lake, churning up the water until they drowned.

I’m not surprised the multitude of people were “seized with great fear” (v. 37). I am surprised they didn't recognize Jesus as God and bow at his feet.

Fear is understandable, but fear sometimes makes people do foolish things.

The Gadarene people did the most foolish thing of all. Instead of acknowledging Jesus’ power, they begged Him to depart from them. 

Instead of placing their faith in Him and trusting His sovereignty over every detail of the situation, they turned away. 

Instead of bowing before Him in humble submission, they told Him to go.

And so He did.

Like the Gadarenes, we have to choose between fear and faith every day.

Obsess over what could kill us or rest in Him who saves us? 

Turn our backs on Jesus and act as though it’s all up to us or bring our needs to Him and believe that He will meet them? 

Fear what can kill the body or trust Him who saves our souls?

Is there a chance we might get sick from the Corona virus? Absolutely.

Just like there was a chance a Gadarene could have been trampled by a demon-possessed pig, there’s at least a reasonable chance we could contract the virus.

Could we die from it? Maybe.


But if we’re believers in Jesus, what matters more than the timing of the end of our life is how we spend the life we’ve been given.

Are we looking for frightened people with whom to share “the reason for the hope that is within us (1 Peter 3:15),” or are we missing situations pregnant with eternal possibilities because we’re frightened and self-focused?

Is Jesus in control or isn't He?

First John 4:18 tells us “perfect love casts out fear.” If you’re a believer resting in the perfect love of God, fear has no rightful place in your heart. We are men and women of faith.

If Jesus was here with us (and He is), this is what He would say:

“Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by your name; you are Mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; And through the rivers, they shall not overflow you.

“When you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned, nor shall the flame scorch you. For I am the Lord your God, The Holy One of Israel, your Savior” (Isaiah 43:1-3).

In sickness and in health, in poverty and in wealth, for as long as we all shall live, Jesus, our bridegroom promises never to leave us or forsake us. Because of this, we may boldly say, “The Lord is my helper, I will not fear!” (Hebrews 13:5-6).

Fear makes people do foolish things, but we are not foolish people. 

We are faith-filled people.

Let’s live like it.






HOT OFF THE PRESS: FREE Bible Study Guide and Small Group Discussion Questions! Did you know there is a FREE Bible study guide and discussion questions to accompany the Hungry for God...Starving for Time devotional? Click HERE to download your copy. Now you'll have everything you need to use Hungry for God as the basis for your next small group Bible study. 




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

Bend or Break? How to Cultivate the Gift of Flexibility

A friend gave me a very special gift recently—the gift of flexibility. In a world where we’re all doing our own things, furthering our own agendas, and looking out for our own best interests, it was a rare and precious treasure. 

Flexibility has several definitions. The first is my favorite: the ability to bend without breaking. Ever seen toddlers go to pieces? They’re not characterized by their ability to bend without breaking. We, however, should be. The second definition is equally profound: the ability to be easily modified. And the final: a willingness to change or compromise. 

My friend’s willingness to yield her preference for someone else’s made me appreciate anew this valuable quality. It also sealed my undying love for her. 

Flexibility voices itself in many different ways: 

It says, “Whatever you’d like to do is fine with me.” 

It says, “I don’t care; you pick.” 

It says, “It doesn’t matter where we go, just as long as we’re together.” 

It says, “I know it’s short notice, but I’d be glad to help.” 

I’m not saying we should never express an opinion or a preference. I also realize we can’t be flexible all the time, nor should we yield our convictions or commitments. We can, however, like my dear friend, look for simple ways to honor others above ourselves. 

Here are some ideas: 

1. If you normally pick the restaurant, television show, or weekend activity, let someone else choose. Who knows? You just might discover a new favorite. 

2. If a boss or coworker asks you to pitch in outside your area of expertise, say yes. Employers highly value employees who approach their job with a flexible mindset. 

3. If your spouse or friend is running late, don’t fuss and fume. Extend grace. Ask, “How can I help you?” 

4. If you’re stuck in a line and people around you are grumbling, say something pleasant to infuse positive energy into the situation. Keep the big picture in mind, realizing that a little delay probably won’t significantly alter the outcome of your day. 

Flexibility is a quality Type A people like me especially struggle with. We’re decisive, opinionated, and motivated. We like efficiency and getting things done, and we usually have a clear idea of how to make it happen. Because of these traits, it can be really hard for us to be flexible. But like definition #1 above, if we don’t bend, someday we might break. 

Now it’s your turn. How have you given the gift of flexibility? Maybe someone else’s flexibility has blessed your life? Tell us about it in the comment box and join the conversation. If you’re reading by email, click HERE to visit Hungry for God online, scroll down, and share your thoughts in the comment section.





HOT OFF THE PRESS: FREE Bible Study Guide and Small Group Discussion Questions! Did you know there is a FREE Bible study guide and discussion questions to accompany the Hungry for God...Starving for Time devotional? Click HERE to download your copy. Now you'll have everything you need to use Hungry for God as the basis for your next small group Bible study. 




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

Leap Years and Leaping Forward – My Adventure Aboard the Carnival Sunshine

February 29, Leap Year Day, seemed like the logical day to do something unusual. 

But I was on a cruise ship churning toward the Bahamas with friends, so my options for unusual were limited. 

Eat something scary from the Things You’ve Always Wanted to Try list in the ship’s dining room? Nah. Choking down braised ox tongue was a little too unusual for my taste. 

Get a hot rocks massage in the spa? I’ve never had one, so that would be different, but the $129 price tag scared me away. 

Gamble in the casino? Nope. Even if I didn’t have a conviction against gambling, I’d probably lose all my money and contract lung cancer from the clouds of cigarette smoke filling the room. 


This course isn't exactly like the course we experienced. Ours was SCARIER!That left one option: the high ropes course.Suspended 150 feet above the deck of the ship, the 230-foot spider’s web of ropes, bridges, swinging steps, and balance beams provided the perfect opportunity to do something I’d never done before. And the best view on the ship—if I didn’t pass out from fright. 

From what I’d read, the most challenging time to tackle the course is on a sea day. The movement of the ship combined with sometimes gusty winds make navigating the ropes course even more difficult.  

February 29 just happened to be a sea day. 


But completing a high ropes course was on my bucket list, so I queued up. The guide instructed me to climb into a canvas harness attached to a tether anchored to a metal cable five feet above the ropes course. She crisscrossed straps over my shoulders, clicked a few carabineers, and cinched everything tight. My friend Maryann lined up behind me. 

“What if I don’t like it?” she said, looking down at the deck below. 

“Then you keep moving,” the guide said. “There’s no turning back.” 

Feeling like a contestant on Ninja, I looked at the first challenge—a footbridge comprised of 12-inch wooden steps held together with rope and swaying in the wind. 

“Don’t look down. Don’t look at the other climbers. Just focus on the next step,” the guide said as I hesitated at the edge of the platform. Why did I think this was a good idea? 

But the only way out was through, so I stepped off the platform and onto the first step. 

Gripping the one-inch ropes on either side of the bridge, I made my way across one trembling step at a time. Step. Wobble wobble. Step. Sway sway. Step. Step. Step. Step. Step. Wobble sway, wobble sway. Wobble. 

And then the big step that brought me onto the next stable platform. Halleluiah! One part of the journey complete. 

I took a few deep breaths to ensure I didn’t pass out, then off to the next challenge. I couldn’t linger. There were people following me. 

Ahead of me stretched a net of ropes criss crossing like a tic tac toe grid. One misstep and my foot would slip through a square, trapping me like a fly in a spider’s web. 


 Behind me, Maryann was struggling. Her legs are shorter than mine and her fear of heights greater.

She was in trouble. 

“Don’t look down!” one friend called from beneath her. 

“You can do this!” another said from behind her. 

“One step at a time,” yelled another, her camera poised to capture every moment. 

I called instructions from ahead. “Put your feet in the center of the boards. Only four more to go. You’re almost there.” 

A few more wobbly steps, and she was close enough for me to reach out and boost her onto the platform. She smiled weakly and laid her hand on her heart. “Why did I ever agree to this?” 

But the only way out was through, so we set off again. 


I went first to find the footholds while those behind us cheered us on. We reached the most difficult portion of the course—two thin ropes with nothing to hold on to except the tether strap that anchored us to the cable above. 

“Hold on to the strap,” the guide yelled. “Trust the anchor. It’s got you.” 

There, dangling between heaven and earth, I saw my life as God sees it. 

We leave the safe cocoon of our mothers and step onto the path ordained for us. We can’t see the destination, only the road ahead. The only way out is through. 

 Yet God doesn’t send us out alone. 

If we’ve placed our faith in Him, He sets the course before us. He hems us in behind and before. He surrounds us with caring people—parents, siblings, and brothers and sisters in Christ to show us the way. 

Those who have navigated similar obstacles share their wisdom and encouragement. Others warn us away from danger and slippery paths. Fellow travelers facing the same challenges inspire us with their companionship and love. Friends reach out to lift us up. 

If that isn’t enough, higher than the highest ropes course stands a great cloud of witnesses cheering us on (Hebrews 12:1). 

And when we reach the most difficult part of our journey? The places we have to walk alone? 

Jesus is there. 

We hold tightly to the Anchor, knowing that if we stumble, slip, or lose our grip, He will hold us fast. He promises never to let us go (Deuteronomy 31:8). He will bring us safely to the other side. 

How about you? Where are you in this faith journey? Have you taken your first trembling steps? Seek out brothers and sisters in Christ to walk with you. 

Have you navigated trials and grown stronger because of them? Look around for someone who can benefit from your wisdom and experience. 

Are you in the hardest place? Surround yourself with God’s people and cling to Jesus. Rest in the secure knowledge that He is holding on to you, and will never ever let you go. 

He will see you safely through.







HOT OFF THE PRESS: FREE Bible Study Guide and Small Group Discussion Questions! Did you know there is a FREE Bible study guide and discussion questions to accompany the Hungry for God...Starving for Time devotional? Click HERE to download your copy. Now you'll have everything you need to use Hungry for God as the basis for your next small group Bible study. 




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

Help Needed. Are You an Influencer? A Buzz Maker?

When my husband, David, turned 40, I planned a surprise birthday party. For weeks I secretly plotted, schemed, shopped, invited, and cooked. Kind friends came alongside me to help with the details. Jan picked up the cake. Susan brought balloons. Ted invited David’s friends from church. 

On the day of the party, I felt more excited than a parent on Christmas Eve. In just a few short hours, my husband would enjoy the results of my labor and know how much I loved him. 

In some ways, I feel like that right now. I’m not planning a round number surprise party for Hubby. Instead, I’ve been working on something special for you, my dear, dear readers—a brand new devotional book. 

I’m excited to announce that Refresh Your Faith, Uncommon Devotions from Every Book of the Bible will release on May 5. 

As I work with Our Daily Bread Publishing, my publicist said, “No one launches a book by herself. Who within your circle of influence can help spread the word?” 

When he asked that question, I knew the answer--my friends and faithful readers. 

Y’all are the most encouraging, godly, loving group of people I know. You send me encouraging emails. You read my posts and share them with your friends. You pray for me. 

I need two groups of people on my launch team—Influencers and Buzz Makers. 

Influencers 

Influencers are people who have a sphere of influence that extends beyond local boundaries. You may have a blog, a speaking platform, or a connection to a church or ministry. You have the ability to share information on social media or in person that reaches hundreds or thousands of people. 

If this is you, would you allow me to guest post or share an excerpt from my book on your blog? I’ll provide everything you need to post memes, tweets, or quotes on your social media channels. Would you be willing to post a review on your blog or website and on Amazon? 

I’ll provide a (free) digital or paperback copy of my book so you can look it over. Perhaps you might invite me to speak at your church or women’s group or connect me with your women’s ministry leader, pastor, or Bible study group. 

If you’d like to be one my influencers, I’d be so grateful. 

Buzz Makers 

Buzz Makers are those friends who spring into action immediately before and in the early days after the book release (May 5). You’d be willing to read a (free) digital copy of Refresh Your Faith and post reviews on Amazon and other sites, share the book with your friends on Facebook, Twitter, and other social media sites, and recommend it to friends and family. 

I’ll provide everything you need – memes, quotes, tweets – to make sharing easy. As the day draws near, I’ll invite both groups to an exclusive Facebook group where you can retrieve your free digital copy of Refresh Your Faith and get updates and all the insider scoop on the book launch. I’ll also have a special gift for everyone who posts a review. 

If you’d like to serve in either of these capacities, please reply to this email or email me at LoriAHatcher (at) gmail.com. 

And if you’re unable to participate, I understand. Please pray for me and for Refresh Your Faith. My deepest desire is that God will use this book to help men and women fall in love with Him and His Word like they never have before.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 Things You Need to Know about Gossip

“Did you hear what happened with the Fredricksons? I suspected something was going on, but I never imagined it was this bad.”

Gossip is everywhere—break rooms, coffee shops, the gym, and, sadly, even in the church. Sometimes it’s obvious, like the example above. Other times it’s much more subtle.

“Jean, I want to share a prayer request. Did you hear that John’s fallen off the wagon again? We’ve got to pray for him and Chelsea. I’m so afraid he’s going to lose his job. And then how will they keep the kids in Christian school? I heard that they’re paying $20,000 a year to keep them there. . . and I think they had to take out a second mortgage to buy that new minivan last month.”

Google defines gossip as “casual or unconstrained conversation or reports about other people, typically involving details that are not confirmed as being true.”

Scripture has a long list of names for it: slander, backbiting, betraying a confidence, whispering, and tale bearing. However you define gossip, the Bible clearly warns us of its destructive power.


Here are five things you need to know about gossip: 

1. When we gossip, we break God’s greatest commandment, the call to love one another. 

“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another” (John 13:34-35).

2. Gossip hurts our witness to the unsaved world.

“By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another” (John 13:25). 

Wounding other believers with our speech (gossipy “prayer requests,” whispered “I’m concerned about so-and-so,” and behind-the-back conversations in the spirit of “care and concern” doesn’t demonstrate an accurate picture of how sisters and brothers in Christ should act toward each other. The world sees this, takes note, and determines that “believers” are no different than unbelievers.

3. God holds us accountable for every idle word we say.

“But I tell you that men will have to give account on the day of judgment for every careless word they have spoken. For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned.” (Mat. 12: 36-37).

If we’re true, born-again believers, we have the assurance that Christ took the punishment for our sins, even the ones we haven’t committed yet, on the cross. So when the Bible talks about being judged, it’s talking about a different type of judgment. This judgment may involve a loss of rewards (because gossip is certainly “wood, hay, and stubble” that will burn) or experiencing the natural results of being a gossip, like loss of trust and broken relationships.

4. Gossip will cause you to lose friends. 

 "A perverse man stirs up dissension, and a gossip separates close friends” (Prov. 16:28).

The most obvious way we can lose friends is to gossip specifically against that person. When word gets back to them, and it will, your relationship can be permanently damaged.

Another reason gossip parts friends is because sharing gossip, even if it’s about someone else, destroys our friend’s confidence in our trustworthiness. If Cara hears you gossiping about Shelby, then she’s naturally going to wonder what you say about her when she’s not around. Because trust is the foundation of any deep and lasting relationship, without it, our friendships will be superficial and stunted.

5. Gossip will find its way back to you. 

“What you have said in the dark will be heard in the daylight, and what you have whispered in the ear in the inner rooms will be proclaimed from the roofs” (Luke 12:3).

The very nature of gossip requires passing along information. When that “information” makes its way to the person being talked about, rest assured, the tale-bearing breadcrumbs will lead straight to your door.

Now that we’ve examined these five scary truths about gossip, here are six questions we should ask ourselves before we speak:

1. Is it true? 

2. Is it kind?

3. Does it need to be said? 

4. What is my motive in sharing this bit of information—to build someone up, or tear someone down? Look deeply into your heart and examine your true motives.

5. Would I say this if the person was standing here in front of me? 

6. Do I have a right to speak on this matter? Am I part of the problem or part of the solution?

One of the best ways to break the gossip habit, according to Chip Ingram in his Bible study, Five Lies that Ruin Relationships, is to listen more and speak less. This is sound advice, straight from the Bible: 

"When words are many,” Proverbs 10:19 says, “sin is not absent, but he who holds his tongue is wise.”

I want to be known as one who uses my words to help others, not hurt them. I suspect you have a similar desire. As we pursue this noble goal, may the words of Ephesians 4:29 guide us:

“Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.”

Now it's your turn. Why do you think almost everyone struggles with gossip? What steps have you taken to help break the destructive speech cycle? Leave a comment below and share your thoughts. If you're reading by email, CLICK HERE to visit Hungry for God online, scroll to the bottom of the post, and leave a comment.







HOT OFF THE PRESS: FREE Bible Study Guide and Small Group Discussion Questions! Did you know there is a FREE Bible study guide and discussion questions to accompany the Hungry for God...Starving for Time devotional? Click HERE to download your copy. Now you'll have everything you need to use Hungry for God as the basis for your next small group Bible study. 




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

A 3-Step Approach to Banish Nighttime Fears

Almost every child I know has struggled with nighttime fears. When I was young, the gremlins I never saw in the daylight scurried around under my bed as soon as Mom turned off the light. The creaks and groans I normally attributed to tree branches and the ever-present New England wind became monsters’ footsteps and heavy breathing in the dark. The fears I labeled “silly” became terrifyingly real. 

Even now, nighttime can be the most frightening part of the day.The busyness that distracts me is gone, and my mind is free to wander into dark places where What If gremlins dance. Tragedy lurks at every bend in the road. That couldn’t happen to me becomes Oh yes it could. The constant activity of job, home, family, and ministry pauses, yet I continue to scroll through the To Do list that didn’t get done and fret about the consequences. 

Second Corinthians 10:5 has become my spiritual sword to help me vanquish nighttime fears: “Bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ.” 

When I struggle to fall asleep or I awaken at 3 a.m., I reach into the swirling melee and grab hold of the noisiest fear. Separated from its slimy comrades, it immediately grows smaller. 

Then I shine the light of God’s Word on it, and it starts to melt like the Wicked Witch of the West before Dorothy’s bucket of water. 

Bringing every thought into captivity to Christ means I remind myself of three truths: 

     I can trust God's sovereignty. Because God is in control, nothing can touch my life that He hasn’t       ordained for my good and His glory (Romans 8:28). 

     I can trust God’s presence. If God allows a trial to enter my life, He will walk through it with           me. “I will never leave you or forsake you” (Hebrews 13:5). 

     I can trust God’s provision. “And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in         glory by Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:19). 

Finally I determine to pray instead of fret. “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:6-7). 

For the last few months, I’ve been awakening most nights around 3 a.m. Sometimes fear strikes, bombarding me with scary scenarios. I began implementing the three-step plan of attach I’ve described above, and now 3 am has become one of my favorite times of the day. 

As soon as my brain starts spinning, I pray for whomever or whatever is foremost in my mind. Before fear has a chance to gain a toehold, I blast it with prayer and God’s Word. This two-fold heavenly fear repellent transforms my anxiety into faith, and before long, I slip into a peaceful, God-given sleep. 

David the shepherd boy experienced this worry-free slumber. “I will both lie down in peace, and sleep;” he wrote, “For You alone, O Lord, make me dwell in safety.” If you struggle with nighttime fears, I encourage you give this a try. God promises He will keep us in perfect peace when our minds are fixed on Him (Isaiah 26:3). 

Now it’s your turn. When fear troubles your sleep, what do you do to banish it? Leave a comment below and share your thoughts. If you’re reading by email, CLICK HERE to visit Hungry for God online and leave a comment.




HOT OFF THE PRESS: FREE Bible Study Guide and Small Group Discussion Questions! Did you know there is a FREE Bible study guide and discussion questions to accompany the Hungry for God...Starving for Time devotional? Click the link in the right-hand side bar to download your copy. Now you'll have everything you need to use Hungry for God as the basis for your next small group Bible study.




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