August 20 – Colossians 3:15

I’ve been thinking about peace. If it’s between people or nations, they’re not fighting. So I’ve been trying to put my finger on what’s not at war when it’s within us. I was trying to pin it down to one thing, but have decided it could be many — us against our conscience, or against God; fear against trust; greed against generosity. Lots... Read More

August 19 – Isaiah 26:3

Isaiah 26:3 You will keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You. Remember talking about this verse before? This is when the word for peace is repeated — the only time this occurs. “I will keep you in peace peace.” Since we’re wondering HOW to keep our hearts at peace, this might be a good verse to study! It sounds... Read More

August 18 – Proverbs 14:30

Proverbs 14:30 A heart at peace gives life to the body. (NIV) A calm and undisturbed mind and heart are the life and health of the body. Science keeps finding new evidence that what Solomon said was true. This verse goes on to say that envy (or jealousy and wrath) rots our bones. Maybe much more literally than we thought years ago. A calm, peaceful heart really does contribute... Read More

August 16 – Psalm 62:1-2

Psalm 62:1-2 For God alone my soul waits in silence; from Him comes my salvation. He only is my rock and my salvation, my defense and my fortress; I shall not be greatly moved. One day last week this one pierced me. When was the last time I just waited “for God alone”? No other motive than just His Presence, sitting in silent communion with my Daddy, my rock, my salvation.... Read More

August 15 – James 3:17

James 3:17 Amp But the wisdom from above is first of all pure (undefiled); then it is peace-loving, courteous (considerate, gentle). [It is willing to ] yield to reason, full of compassion and good fruits; it is wholehearted and straightforward, impartial and unfeigned — free from doubts, wavering and insincerity. I had planned on this verse following the July 23 “if... Read More

August 14 – Mom's aside

A few years ago I was the recipient of a habit-training process. Your daddy wanted me to begin putting all the bills that came in the mail each day in a certain spot instead of just leaving them on the counter or desk, like I’d done for years. At first he would ask me each day. Then later he would add something like, “It’s important that you remember.”... Read More

August 13 – Mom's aside

I learned something when I was at a new friend’s house one day. Her young daughter was sucking on a pacifier, and, when she was done, she put it up on the counter — which she was so young she could hardly reach. Wow. That was a well-disciplined….mom. Because that’s who has to be disciplined in order to train those habits in children. At first the training... Read More

August 12 – Mom's aside

I believe a child learns to say no to himself (SELF-control) when parents have the courage (courage, because, at the time, it’s easier to give in) to say no. When the “no” is given with wise and fair reasons, it gives him guidelines for himself, although I don’t believe EVERY “no” requires a spoken reason from the parent. When whining and crying... Read More

August 11 – Mom's aside

I told you if my comments were from me, I’d let you know. Indulge me while I take a day or two… or four!…to just say my own thing, ok?! The first thing is that, in determining your response to a child’s misbehavior, know whether what you’re facing is rebellion, foolishness, or just immaturity. Accidentally spilling his milk is immaturity, standing... Read More

August 10 – I Samuel 2:29

I Samuel 2:29 There are a few words in I Samuel that are scary to me. God is talking to the priest Eli and told him that you “honor your sons above Me.” For their own sakes, children need to know their place. “God is first in my life, and my relationship to your daddy is next. What they say is important to me. When they say no, I say no. When they say yes,... Read More