Bitterness is one of the most destructive forces we can ever hold in our hearts. It eats away at our very core, stealing our joy. Bitterness can actually bring about physical illness. It causes division, ends relationships, and is just plain miserable. It doesn’t make any sense to hang on to it, yet so many people do. How do we begin to let go of bitterness? At the very root of bitterness is unforgiveness. We’ve all experienced hurt at one time or another. Some wounds are small and shallow. Some wounds are big and deep. If we are quick to
Author: Laurel
Welcome! I am a wife, proud mama of two adult daughters, writer, teacher, and a follower of Jesus who finds joy in mentoring and encouraging others to live passionate lives full of hope and purpose. A graduate of Idaho State University, I currently teach music at a private elementary school. I also lead a bible study group for moms of all ages, in all seasons of life.
Come join me in simply embracing this amazing gift called life!
What does the word “excess” bring to mind? The most common definition of excess is to have more than is needed. Do you have any areas with excess in your life? Some examples might be: an excess of obligations, financial issues, or stress. Or maybe you just have too much stuff. Excess slows us down. It complicates our lives and makes the journey more difficult. Letting go of excess helps us to lighten our load and simplify our lives. When we simplify, it is so much easier to focus on our priorities. The examples I mentioned above have a negative
Do you suffer from the disease to please? Some of the symptoms include: consistently putting the needs and desires of others ahead of your own, constantly seeking validation from others, difficulty saying “no” to others, extreme sensitivity to criticism, and a willingness to avoid confrontation at any cost. If any of this sounds familiar, then you just might be a people pleaser. People pleasers are some of the nicest, most caring people you will ever meet. They are also exhausted, fearful, and totally stressed out! All of that making other people happy at the expense of you takes quite a
“You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you! Trust in the Lord always, for the Lord God is the eternal Rock.” ~Isaiah 26:3-4
There are “shoulds” and then there are “shoulds.” Some “shoulds” lead us into a place of peace and contentment. “You should empty the trash can when it is full.” “You should extinguish the campfire before leaving the camp site.” Complying with these kinds of “shoulds” brings about a good result. Noncompliance has decidedly negative consequences. Some “shoulds” lead to confusion, guilt, and even condemnation. “You should decorate your house this way.” “You should drive thiskind of car.” “If you are a good person, then you should do this.” And, the one I have been hearing a lot lately, “You should