In case you missed our weekly “Best New Self” Instagram (IG) Live Bible Study covering Luke 15:1-24 this week, here’s a replay (see video below)! While studying Luke 15 to prepare for our study, I was greatly reminded of the time period when I finally saw my way of life for what it was – hurtful and sinful – and wanted nothing more than to repent from my old way of living and be made new in Christ. This chapter paints such a beautiful picture of how God waits for us to see the errors of our ways, as well as how He searches for us when we’re lost. I love this chapter of the Bible because it shows me just how much our Father loves us. In each example given in this chapter we see that a prized possession is lost. Why? Because Jesus is trying to tell us that WE are His prized positions, and He wants nothing more than for us to be saved and have a close relationship with Him.

How to Prepare for the Storms of this Life

1 Thessalonians 5:9-24

If we’re honest, we all secretly (or not so secretly) hope for the easiest life possible. We find comfort in the idea that if we do everything right, plan everything perfectly and follow all the rules, then life will be easy. No one will ever get sick. Nothing bad will happen to the people we love. We won’t ever face hardship or setbacks.

The truth is, however, that God never promised those things. He never told us that if we’re good, nothing bad will ever happen. He does tell us that He will make everything beautiful in its time. He tells us that He will work everything out for good for those who love Him. He tells us that He knows the plans He has for us…plans to prosper us and give us hope and a future.

Hi friends!

Below you will find a recording of an Instagram (IG) Live that I did recently that discussed how we can learn to read the Bible more effectively. I’ve received many questions on this topic, which lead me to reflect back on the steps I took to go from just reading through the Bible occasionally to actually finding a passion for studying God’s Word.

If you scroll past the video, you’ll also find that I’ve written out a bullet version of the list that I discuss in full in the video. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to leave a comment and I’ll try to answer to the best of my ability!

Hi Friends!

Below you’ll find a short video review of the new Illustrating Bible, DaySpring just released! It also includes several tips on how I’ve started utilizing my new Bible during quiet times.

If you’re like me, then you’d probably agree that [sometimes] the hardest part about reading and studying the Bible, as well as spending time meditating on scripture we’ve read, is that we’re human…which means that our nature tends to want to do the following:

Hi!!

Today, I am so excited to share my heart with you on the topic of prayer! I’m a storyteller, so I’ll start with a brief story of how God called me to start journaling my prayers, and then I’ll give you some useful lessons, and a FREE “Prayer Journaling Guide” PDF. Praying my words can help you along your prayer journey!

By Andrew Peters

My grandpa owns some land in Drasco, AR, just northwest of Heber Springs. I think that’s where I’ve found peace the most. Most of my mid 20’s I had lost God…or I thought I had.

“Releasing Expectations to Embrace God’s Plan.” – Helen Elizabeth

Over the last year, I’ve been building up the courage to chase wholeheartedly after my dream of being a writer and speaker. After making the decision to go all in, I then began trying to define what the core of my ministry would be. After lots of reflection on different aspects of my life, I finally decided on the mission statement above because I believe it encompasses what I desire for myself and for you – the people I encourage.