Abundance may make us feel more productive, but perhaps emptiness has greater power to strengthen our souls.

We are accountable before God for our imaginations as much as for our deeds.

As Jesus stepped out of the Judean wilderness and into the public eye, he did not avoid such lonely spaces. On the contrary, he pursued them for the rest of his days. The same word that is translated desert in the temptation appears throughout Jesus’ visible years as solitary or lonely places.

Anonymous: Jesus’ Hidden Years… and Yours – Alicia Britt Chloe

Really, prayer and worry are of the same essence. They are both a rehearsing of circumstances, a mulling over, and a kind of mental and emotional chewing. But in worry, there’s no connection, no traction, no relational receiver.

To Live Is Christ to Die Is Gain – Matt Chandler

That is the essence of encouragement—treating the people in your life as the best possible versions of themselves, whether they are currently living up to that standard or not.

Tongue Pierced: How the Words You Speak Transform the Life You Live – Nelson Searcy

Efficiency is a dangerous mind-set to bring to our faith. We do not want to be efficient worshipers, driven by a desire to get more of God in a shorter amount of time.

The Next Story – Tim Challies

It’s not that I hold that belief so much as that belief holds me.

All Is Grace – Brennan Manning

If there’s one thing I’ve learned over the past thirteen years, it’s this: Just because someone isn’t willing or able to love us, it doesn’t mean that we are unlovable.

“Grace will take you places hustling can’t.” Liz Gilbert

Regret is a tough but fair teacher. To live without regret is to believe you have nothing to learn, no amends to make, and no opportunity to be braver with your life.

Rising Strong – Brene Brown