Lori Hatcher's Blog: Refresh Blog

Lori here! When was the last time you had to take a stand for what was right? Today we’ll learn from one of the Bible’s wisest men who found himself in a difficult position, made a bold appeal, and glorified God. This post appeared first on Revive Our Hearts blog.

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.

Daniel in Exile

Daniel was a young man who was taken captive by the invading forces of Babylon. Among the first to be carried off into exile by Nebuchadnezzar’s army, he was one of Judah’s finest. Smart, handsome, and insightful, Daniel and his companions, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, caught the eye of Ashpenaz, chief of the king’s court officials. He chose Daniel and his friends for a special training program to prepare them for government leadership.

Similar to a master’s program at Harvard, for three years they would study the language and literature of the Babylonians. At the end of their education, they would enter the king’s service.

For captured exiles ripped from their homeland, emasculated, and forced to embrace a foreign culture, country, and community, it was a sweet deal. The new government would house, clothe, feed, and educate Daniel and his comrades and prepare them for a new future.

Trouble in Babylon

All went well until Daniel read the menu in the dining hall. While most young men would have cheered to learn they’d be eating the finest food and drink from the king’s table, Daniel knew he was in trouble.

The Babylonians worshipped a plethora of idolatrous gods and sacrificed food and wine to them in their temples. After the food had been offered to the idols, it would be resold in the marketplace. Much of the food at the king’s table was probably first offered as an idolatrous sacrifice.

Daniel knew to consume these pagan offerings would be a sin and an affront to God.

His response to this challenge is a valuable model for us to follow when we’re called to take a stand. Let’s learn from his example. In Daniel 1, we see six steps.

Six Steps for Taking a Stand
1. Determine if it’s a moral issue.

Because Daniel knew the Scriptures, he knew that consuming meat offered to idols would be a sin. This wasn’t a matter of preference. While the Bible encourages us to yield our preferences for the good of others and the cause of Christ (1 Cor. 10:31–32), we can’t and shouldn’t compromise on moral (right/wrong) issues. God’s Word declared that idolatry was a sin, and Daniel had one option. He could not sin. 

2. Resolve not to compromise your beliefs.

Daniel didn’t know how the official would respond to his appeal, but he was prepared to suffer the consequences of his “disobedience.” Because he was a man of character and faith, he was willing to endure the temporary results of man’s displeasure so he would not dishonor God. 

3. Pave the way for your appeal.

Sadly, some Christians are known as “difficult” by their coworkers and employers. Instead of being hard-working team players, they act as if they are morally superior and privileged. Daniel complied with everything the officials asked him to do with a good attitude. Although they had marched him more than 1,600 miles to Babylon and forced him to serve the government that had killed his countrymen and destroyed his homeland, Daniel served them as if he were serving God himself (1 Cor. 10:31). 

4. Appeal respectfully.

Instead of demanding his rights, decrying the paganism of his captors, or calling for an uprising, Daniel prayerfully approached the king’s official. He asked for permission to not defile himself with the king’s food. His respectful approach opened the door for discussion, not debate. 

5. When appropriate, offer an alternative.

When Ashpenaz expressed concern that he’d get in trouble if Daniel and his compatriots didn’t appear as healthy as the other men, Daniel offered a compromise. 

“Test your servants for ten days; let us be given vegetables to eat and water to drink. Then let our appearance and the appearance of the youths who eat the king’s food be observed by you, and deal with your servants according to what you see.” (Dan. 1:12–13) 

6. Trust God to work in the heart of authorities.

Every appeal must be bathed in prayer. As Daniel sought God’s direction, he asked Him to do what only He could do—change someone’s heart. “God gave Daniel favor and compassion in the sight of the chief of the eunuchs”(v. 9), and Ashpenaz agreed to the compromise (v. 14).

What Happened Next?

If you’re familiar with the story, you know God supernaturally worked not only in the official’s heart, but also in Daniel and his comrades’ health. 

At the end of ten days it was seen that they were better in appearance and fatter in flesh than all the youths who ate the king’s food. So the steward took away their food and the wine they were to drink, and gave them vegetables. (v. 15–16)

Not All Stands End the Way We Hope

I wish every stand for righteousness ended like Daniel’s story. Unfortunately, they don’t. Two chapters later, Daniel’s companions, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, probably emboldened by Daniel’s example, took their own stand. Commanded to bow to Nebuchadnezzar’s golden statue, they courageously refused. 

Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego answered and said to the king, “O Nebuchadnezzar, we have no need to answer you in this matter. If this be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and he will deliver us out of your hand, O king. But if not, be it known to you, O king, that we will not serve your gods or worship the golden image that you have set up.” (Dan. 3:16–18)

When their appeal failed, they suffered the consequences.

Regardless of the outcome of our stand, God can use our example to accomplish His will and work in the world. Sometimes God delivers us from the fires of trial, and sometimes He walks through them with us (Dan. 3:25). Either way, He is glorified.

Even If

When you face a challenge like Daniel did, I encourage you to follow his example. Resist the temptations to react defensively, demand your rights, and take militant action. When you stand for Christ, don’t forget to be Christ-like. We can’t challenge the world by acting like the world. 

May God grant us, like Daniel, the courage to stand for right in our troubled world.

Who is wise and understanding among you? By his good conduct let him show his works in the meekness of wisdom. (James 3:13) 

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The post 6 Steps to Take When It’s Time to Take a Stand appeared first on Lori Hatcher.

              Related Stories“What are you working on?” Sharing Happy StuffFor Better and For Worse, How Haircuts and Holiness Grow On UsChasing Joy — One Example of How to “Git After It” 

Greetings Friends!

It’s been a while since I climbed out of my writing studio and shared a personal update, but Saturday’s the perfect time to visit a bit, don’t you think? Grab a cup of your favorite beverage (and maybe a cinnamon roll?) and let’s catch up.

What Are You Working On?

Several of you have asked, “What’s next?” and “What are you working on?” The pipeline and process of publication (say that five times fast) is long and winding, so I have several projects in various stages of publication:

Walking in Faith, 60 Devotions to Renew Your Strength, coming August 4, 2026

Based on Isaiah 53:2, this 60-day devotional reminds you that God is there in the middle of life’s everyday struggles and invites you to rest and wait on Him. Scripture, story-driven reflections, prayer, and guiding questions will encourage you not to give up in a time of waiting or struggle.

Walking in Faith is available for pre-order now. Here’s the Amazon link if you’d like to read more. Would you please pray for everything that needs to happen between now and August to help me connect this book with those who need it most?

What Comes After That?

Y’all, I had the best time writing a new EASTER/Lenten devotional for Our Daily Bread! It’s called Because He Lives, Celebrating the Gifts of Christ’s Death and Resurrection. The Easter season is the most important celebration of the Christian year, but sometimes the story seems so familiar that it doesn’t thrill us any more. To write this not-your-usual Easter devotional, I gazed long at the cross, then looked beyond it to the gifts God has given us because of Jesus’s death and resurrection. Gifts like Holy Spirit power, boldness in our prayers, and supernatural love for others.

I hope you love this book as much as I loved writing it. But you have to wait . . . this title will release in time for Easter next year. Watch for an announcement in early 2027 and pray for its production. I just completed the first round of edits. It will be a while before I can show you its beautiful cover, but you’ll be the first to see it, I promise. Stay tuned!

What Are You Writing Now?

In South Carolina, the temperatures are rising (it’s 88 today) and summer is near. In my house, however, the nativity set still sits in my living room. Why? Because I’m writing an ADVENT devotional tentatively called What Child Is This? Celebrating the Humanity and the Deity of Christ. In this 25-day devotional, I widen the spotlight on the baby in the manger to show us the miracle of God incarnate, Jesus the God/Man. Devotions such as “The Bread of Life Grew Hungry,” and “The Eternal God Stepped into Time” will invite you to marvel at the miracle of Christ’s incarnation. Please pray for divine inspiration as I write. I have twenty-one written, four to go!

What about FUN?

Nerdy writer that I am, I think writing about God is one of the funnest things I get to do, but when I’m not writing, I get to share my love for God with others in person. Hubby and I meet weekly with a small group from my home church, Kittiwake Baptist. I also have the privilege of speaking at other churches and women’s events. This spring I shared “Powerful Reasons to Have Hope” with the women of Our Lady of the Hills church and Crosspointe Church of Lexington. I also served on faculty at the Carolina Christian Writers Conference.

If you’re looking for a women’s ministry speaker for your summer or fall event, check out my Speaking Page. I’d love to come alongside your group to do a one-time event or weekend retreat. One of my favorite events last fall was a 2-day women’s retreat with the women of Hope Church. We laughed, dug deeply into God’s Word, and invited God to ask us, “What are you thinking?,” “What are you Saying?,” and “What are you praying?” God moved among us and drew us closer to Himself and to each other.

When I’m not writing, sharing, or teaching, I’m hanging out with my hubby and spending time with my grandkids. I cheer them on at swim meets, host them for sleep overs, and let them beat me at games like Monopoly Deal and Skull King. Last week we attended a Fireflies baseball game. I can’t wait for our annual beach trip to Edisto Island in May.

May I Ask a Favor?

My most recent book, Lord, I Believe, 60 Devotions for Your Troubled Heart, is FOUR reviews away from my goal of 50. If you’ve been blessed by this devotional, would you please, please, pretty please write a simple review on Amazon? Reviews help others find good books, and once I hit 50, Amazon will begin sharing Lord, I Believe with shoppers. You don’t have to write a book report, just share a few lines about what you liked about it and give it a star rating. Follow this link, then scroll down (way down) until you see the Write a Review button. When you submit your review, hit Reply to this post so I can hug your neck across the miles. Thank you!! (And if you haven’t read it yet and could use a friendly voice to walk with you through your challenges, click HERE to order a copy. It’s on sale 25% off!)

I’m So Grateful for You!

I love receiving your emails in response to my Refresh posts. You share your lives with me, ask me to pray for you, and offer to pray for me. If these posts have blessed you, would you please share them with others? I want to reach as many people as I can with words of hope and help. Thanks for being an amazing community!

How May I Pray for You?

We need each other as we walk this walk of faith. I’d be honored to pray for you and with you.

Father, you are so kind to save us, change us, and use us in Your service. Thank you for this amazing community you’ve built around our mutual love for You. Grow us as we walk this life journey together. In the strong name of Jesus I ask, amen.

Do You Know Someone with a Strong Faith Who’s Facing a Tough Situation?

Lord, I Believe

What do you believe about God? Do you believe that He can restore? Or that He answers prayers? Do you believe that He delights in you?  

As you spend 60 days in these devotions, Lori Hatcher will reassure you of who God is and who He says you are. In each meditation, you’ll find: 

A biblical truth you can claim to rebuild your faith in the toughest circumstances  
Comforting assurances from Scripture that God is with you and for you, no matter what  
Encouragement of God’s delight and joy in you always  
A prayer and biblical affirmation to remind you of God’s steadfast presence and unwavering promises  
Heartwarming, story-centered readings from popular devotional writer Lori Hatcher 

Spend just a few minutes each day with these devotions, and let your heart find strength in the reassurance of God’s unending love for you. 

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The post “What are you working on?” Sharing Happy Stuff appeared first on Lori Hatcher.

              Related StoriesStruggling Under the Pain of Unforgiveness? How to Break FreeSix Reasons Faith Deconstruction Can Be a Good Thing6 Biblical Steps When You Have to Take a Stand 

Lori here! What do haircuts have to do with holiness? This whimsical account from the early days of marriage will describe how both our haircutting skills and our spiritual maturity are a work in progress. Whether or not you cut your spouse’s hair, I hope you smile (and take stock) of your own growth as we seek to honor God with our behavior.

For Better or for Worse

I remember the first time I saw my mother-in-law giving my soon-to-be husband a haircut. 

 “I didn’t know you were a beautician,” I said, surprised to see her wielding her scissors like a pro. 

“I’m not, but I’ve learned a few things over the years.” She then demonstrated how to give a haircut. “When y’all get married,” she said, “you can cut David’s hair.” 

Whaaaaaat? 

In my family, haircuts were off-limits to amateurs. Only someone with a certificate and a special chair touched our heads. And if they didn’t have a jar of assorted combs soaking in green liquid on their counter top, uh uh, ain’t no way they were lifting a pair of scissors to our locks. 

That’s why I knew David’s mother was joking—until our bridal shower. 

After opening a dozen boxes containing cookware, Corning Wear, and underwear (yeah, someone got confused and thought it was a lingerie shower), I peeled the paper off a small, flat package. The box inside said, Professional Hair Cutting Set.   

“Now you won’t have to borrow my tools,” my almost-mother-in-law said with a smile. 

Oh my, I thought. She honestly thinks I’m going to give David a haircut. 

I carried the gifts home and tucked the hair cutting kit in the bottom of a box. There it lay, forgotten, until about a month after our wedding. 

Are You Serious?!

“Lori,” my new husband said, “my hair’s getting a little shaggy. Would you give me a haircut?” 

“Are you serious?” I practically screeched. “The only hair I’ve ever cut was my Barbie’s, and that didn’t turn out so well. I can’t cut your hair. People go to school for years to learn how. What if I make a mistake? There’s no gluing it back on, you know. Remember that school picture from kindergarten when your sister took a pair of scissors to your bangs? Do you really want to go back there?” 

But there was no convincing him. His mom always cut his hair, and when I signed the marriage certificate, she passed the mantle to me. The thought of going to a stranger for a haircut was foreign and distasteful to him. 

“Think about how much money we’ll save,” he reasoned. “I trust you. You can do this.” 

And so I did. 

Keep in mind that these were the days before YouTube. My best hope was to check out a book from the library, study the instructions, and give it my best shot. 

Some haircuts came out fairly decent. Others not so much. 

I had the hardest time figuring out how to keep David’s hair from falling straight down like Mo on the Three Stooges. Several times, as I cut along the neckline and around the ears, I cut a little high, leaving him with whitewalls of scalp that hadn’t seen the sunshine in years. Other times I failed to compensate for the cowlick at his crown, giving him a haircut that would have made Alfalfa proud.  

Through it all, my husband was patient, gracious, and encouraging. “You’ll figure it out. You’re doing a great job.”  

Thankfully, most of my mistakes were in the back, where he couldn’t see them. But I could. 

Every time I looked at one of those botched haircuts, I cringed. I had made the mistake, but he was wearing it. 

It occurred to me recently that sometimes, in marriage, we wear each other’s shame in other ways. 

Wearing the Other’s Shame

A husband’s poor social skills embarrass his wife at a work event. A wife’s tinder-box temper erupts at the neighborhood pool, causing her husband to squirm as heads turn. 

A person’s impatience, coarse language, or ignorance reflect on their spouses too, because, for better or for worse, they are a couple.  

These scenarios remind me that we’re all works in progress. 

In progress. 

Works in Progress

If we’re believers, the Spirit of God lives in us, gradually conforming us to Christ’s image. But the work takes time. Our path to holiness climbs upward, but isn’t immune to detours and backslides. When those around us behave in less than stellar ways, and we respond with grace, we take a giant step along our own path of Christ-likeness. 

First Corinthians 13:7 reminds us love “bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.” 

While there are limits to bearing and enduring—no one should remain in a dangerous, abusive relationship, most of us come nowhere near this scenario. The worst we experience are small annoyances that fall short of perfection or cause us embarrassment. 

I’m so grateful for Christ, who’s the epitome of patience and kindness. His example challenges me not only to be patient with myself when I act in less-than-godly ways, but to be grateful for my husband, who faithfully bears with me through my spiritual growing pains. 

Someday, I pray, he’ll wear my behavior (like my haircuts) with pride, knowing that his long-suffering commitment to my growth in holiness helped make it possible. 

Now it’s your turn. Whom has God used in your life to encourage you in the paths of holiness?

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The post For Better and For Worse, How Haircuts and Holiness Grow On Us appeared first on Lori Hatcher.

              Related StoriesStruggling Under the Pain of Unforgiveness? How to Break FreeSix Reasons Faith Deconstruction Can Be a Good Thing5 Powerful Ways You Can Help Your Husband Draw Closer to God 

A Guest Post by Jill Baughan

Some kinds of joy God drops into your lap; you don’t have to do a thing. Just sit there and be delighted as it bounces all over you.

However, other times He invites you to be more proactive—to make up your mind to just “git after it,” if you know what I mean.

Today I’d like to introduce you to my new friend and fellow Our Daily Bread author, Jill Baughan. I recently read Jill’s latest book, No Matter What, and enjoyed it so much I had to share it with you. If you’re looking for a primer on how to find joy (and more than a few chuckles), even when life’s not funny, you need to read this book. Personally, I’ve already ordered a few more copies to gift to my friends who need a fresh perspective on joy.

Here’s a sample from No Matter What. I know you’ll enjoy Jill’s fresh (and funny) perspective. ~Lori

Some kinds of joy God drops into your lap; you don’t have to do a thing. Just sit there and be delighted as it bounces all over you.

However, other times He invites you to be more proactive—to make up your mind to just “git after it,” if you know what I mean.

Such was the case the time my mom and I were at the Virginia State Fair, and passed by a photo stand where you could get your picture taken with a real chimpanzee for a mere five dollars.

Her name was Tootsie, and when I caught sight of her and that irresistible offer, I begged, “Mom, Mom, please can we have our picture taken with the chimp? Pleeeeease?” But my mother resisted.

“Aw, come on, Mom. It’ll be fun. Just this once?” I whined.

Still she declined.

“But why not?” I wanted to know.

“Well, she said slowly, obviously trying to think of a good reason, “twenty years from now someone might get a look at it and think it was a three-generation photo.”

Quick thinking on her part, and not a bad excuse. Still I was disappointed.

Keep in mind that I was a full-grown adult at the time. I had my own money, and I could have gotten my own picture taken with the ape, thankyouverymuch. But I respectfully caved in, even though I just knew that someday my mom would look back with angst and regret at having passed up that little moment of whimsy.

Fast Forward Twenty Years

Fast forward twenty years later, when family members from Indiana–including my mom– were planning to visit us in Virginia. Lying in bed one night, I was trying to think up ways to entertain them, when I suddenly had a brilliant idea:  Remembering the lost opportunity of two decades before, I thought, “Wouldn’t it be fun to redeem that moment with my mom at the State Fair? If only I could find a photographable chimpanzee, we could have a giant family photo session, and I could get that shot with Mom, the chimp and me–and she wouldn’t be able to say no!”

So I networked for a few weeks, and finally found a man who had a small zoo and a two-year-old chimp who loved people. When I called to tell him what I wanted to do, explaining that my mom and the rest of my family would be in town, he said, “Oh, you don’t want your elderly mother posing for pictures out in the cold. (It was December.) Why don’t I bring the chimp to your house?

The mere idea sent me to the moon.

So it was all set. My extended family arrived on a Friday. I broke the news to Mom, telling her that I needed some closure on that traumatic loss of opportunity in my life, and that the chimp would be arriving at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday. She could run but she could not hide, I warned, so she might as well put some lipstick on and smile for the camera. This time though, to my delight, she was all about it!

Sierra the Chimp

On Saturday Sierra the chimp arrived right on time. 

And believe me when I say that you have not truly lived until you’ve invited a chimpanzee into your living room for an hour or so of primal frolicking.  She turned somersaults, leaped off chairs, “kissed” us when we had grapes in our mouths, let us scratch her belly, and rolled over (and over and over) us when we lay on the floor like logs. It was so much fun, in fact, it was a little scary since, by the end of the hour, we were all acting pretty much alike.

Anyway, since that dream of mine was to have a family portrait made with the chimp amongst us, we all gathered around for a photo shoot, with the chimp up front looking for all the world like some baby cousin. 

But the sweetest moment of the day was when my mom and I sat down–at last–for our picture with the chimpanzee.

I now keep that photo on my dresser to remind me not only of that sweet moment, but also to remind me that there will be opportunities for joy today if only I’ll be proactive enough to embrace them.

And so

And so, my friend,

May you, too, respond to the call of the wild in your soul.

May you feel the urgency to rearrange your life for the sake of celebration.

And may you answer with a “yes!” when you get the slightest inkling that God is tapping you on the shoulder, and saying, “My child. Git after it!”

A joyful heart is good medicine.

Proverbs 17:22 (ESV)

Jill Baughan says, When I was a child, the Tilt-A-Whirl at my hometown’s annual street fair taught me this life-changing truth: it is entirely possible for a human being to laugh and throw up at the same time.

Little did I know that years later, when I was a grown-up, God would use this revelation to show me that joy and sorrow can occupy the same space, that they can walk (or hurl) alongside each other on the same road. We just have to be intentional about drawing from the joy while we’re going through the tough stuff.

Her newest book, No Matter What: 90 Devotions for Experiencing Unexpected Joy in Tough Times, helps you do just that, with humor, depth, practical suggestions and stories. Lots of stories. 

If you’re going through a challenging time right now, these pages will give you hope for joy

   First thing in the morning when your feet hit the floor,

   Last thing at night before your head hits the pillow,

   Or during the day when you need a little encouragement from our God, who hears your heart and reminds you that if you go looking for joy, you will most likely find it. No matter what.

Jill Baughan is an author, podcaster and speaker who helps people find joy, no matter what else is happening in life. 

Her most recent book, Find Joy No Matter What: 90 Devotions for Experiencing Deep Delight in Tough Times, was released on April 1 (no joke!), 2025.

 She and her husband, Ben, live near Richmond, Virginia.

Connect with Jill here:

 Website: https://jillbaughan.com

 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jillbaughan/

 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jill.baughan/

 Podcast: https://jillbaughan.com/podcast/ (or wherever you listen to podcasts)

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The post Chasing Joy — One Example of How to “Git After It” appeared first on Lori Hatcher.

              Related StoriesStruggling Under the Pain of Unforgiveness? How to Break FreeSix Reasons Faith Deconstruction Can Be a Good Thing5 Powerful Ways You Can Help Your Husband Draw Closer to God 

When you think of the women of Easter, whose faces come to mind? 

Certainly Mary, the mother of Jesus, who faced a horror no mother should face as she watched her beloved Son die an agonizing death on a cross.

You may also think of the three women who rushed to the tomb at first light to finish anointing Jesus’s body for burial. God granted Mary Magdalene the honor of being the first to see the risen Christ as she wept at His tomb.

But Easter wouldn’t have been Easter without four other significant women. We seldom think of them in connection with that world-changing Sunday so long ago, but each played a crucial role in the resurrection drama.

To read about these four unexpected women, CLICK HERE to visit “The (Unexpected) Women of Easter on Our Daily Bread’s God Hears Her blog.

Have you read Lori’s latest book?

Have you subscribed to Refresh?

If you’d like to receive Lori’s weekly 5-minute devotions to help you rediscover your passion for God and His Word subscribe HERE .

The post Don’t Forget These (Unexpected) Women of Easter appeared first on Lori Hatcher.

               

“I’ll never forgive you as long as I live!”

A “friend’s” adolescent betrayal, probably having something to do with a boy, incited me to spew these venomous words. She had wronged me, and I was livid. I determined never to forget what she had done. 

And forgive her? No way. I vowed to keep my anger alive, rehearsing the wrong over and over in my mind until it simmered like soup in a crock pot. Occasionally I’d crack the lid, and burning steam would leak out, injuring me and everyone nearby. To forgive would be to deny the offense had happened and negate my right to be offended. 

In the Years Since . . .

Many years have passed since that turbulent time, and I’ve learned much about anger and forgiveness. I’ve been the one who was wronged, and I’ve wronged others. 

One night recently I had the pleasure of tucking my granddaughters into bed and telling them a Bible story. I chose the most dramatic one I could think of – the story of Jonah. When my telling was complete, probably as a tactic to delay bedtime just a little longer, five year old Lauren offered to tell me a Bible story. 

“Once upon a time . . .” she said. ”No, I can’t say ‘once upon a time,’ because this is a real story . . . .” She looked to me for help. 

“How about ‘One day . . . ‘?” I suggested. 

“Yes,” she nodded. “One day, some bad men arrested Jesus. They took a crown made of HUGE thorns and smashed it on his head until he bleeded. And then they beat him . . . even though he never did anything wrong.” 

“Yeah,” her three year old sister chimed in, “Jesus never did anything wrong.” 

“And he died,” Lauren continued. “They put him in a cave . . .” she paused, searching for the unfamiliar word “. . . a tomb. But THEN, on Eachter Sunday, he came alive again!” 

I thanked her for her story, kissed them goodnight, and turned out the light. They were asleep in an instant, but I stayed awake for hours pondering their words. 

Pondering Her Words

“Jesus never did anything wrong.” 

The knowledge that I’d often sinned against others was what finally led me to forgive my friend those many years ago. I’d let them down. Betrayed their trust. Broken my promises. An awareness of my own sinfulness allowed me to extend grace and forgiveness to her. I certainly couldn’t hold her to a standard I hadn’t kept myself. 

But Jesus. 

Jesus, who never did anything wrong, whose only crime was loving a messed up, sinful world, has every right to hold our sins against us. 

Yet he forgives.

And forgives.

And forgives. 

God’s Response

“’Return,’” he pleads in Jeremiah 3:12-13. “’I will not cause My anger to fall on you. For I am merciful. I will not remain angry forever. Only acknowledge your iniquity. That you have transgressed against the Lord your God.” 



“Only acknowledge your iniquity . . .” 

All God requires to extend forgiveness to his children is a simple, repentant confession. He’s justified in holding our sins against us, yet he doesn’t. If we’ve come to him once for salvation, Jesus’ death on the cross has already paid the penalty for our wrongs – once and for all. Now when we sin, all he requires to restore our fellowship with him is simple confession and repentance. 

“Just say you’re sorry,” he says. “I can’t wait to forgive you.” 

Unlike my adolescent self who vowed never to forgive, Jesus wipes our slates clean immediately.  

What a gift. 

If you’ve ever lived under the tyranny of unforgiveness, either in your own heart or in someone else’s, revel in this truth for a moment. God, who has every right to hold our sins against us, doesn’t. 

“I’m sorry, Lord.” 

“I forgive you.” 

It’s that simple. 

Think on this today.

Now it’s your turn. Is there something you need to ask God to forgive you for? Don’t wait another minute. Talk to him right now and experience the glorious freedom that comes from being forgiven.

.

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The post Struggling Under the Pain of Unforgiveness? How to Break Free appeared first on Lori Hatcher.

              Related StoriesSix Reasons Faith Deconstruction Can Be a Good Thing5 Powerful Ways You Can Help Your Husband Draw Closer to GodThe Best Sermons Have No Words 

A Guest Post by Meredith Mills

Greetings, Refresh readers! Unless you’ve been hiding in a bunker, you’ve at least heard the term “deconstruction.” Many, especially young people, are “deconstructing” their faith. Some come back stronger and some leave their faith forever. If you know someone who is deconstructing, this thoughtful article by my friend Meredith Mills will help you understand and walk beside your loved one as they examine (and hopefully re-embrace) their faith. Thank you, Meredith, for allowing me to share your words today.

6 Reasons Faith Deconstruction Can Be a Good Thing

Does faith deconstruction have a place in the church?

A quick Google search reveals a variety of opinions on the subject, with articles ranging from harsh criticism to strong praise.

What is faith deconstruction? Where did the concept come from and how can we be sure we’re talking about the same thing?

What Is Faith Deconstruction?

Defining deconstruction is tricky because there’s no agreed upon definition. The term first appeared in the fields of secular literature and philosophy. Britannica describes deconstruction as the process in which modern readers dissect older works to examine the language and logic, often leading to a reinterpretation of the pieces in question. In this context, truth is considered relative, merely an expression of the writer’s experience and understanding.

When viewing faith deconstruction through this lens, many Christians are concerned. If we deconstruct the Bible based on the assumption that it was written by fallible humans and not through divine inspiration, we lose the foundation of our faith. The Creeds of Christianity are rooted in the belief that Scripture is divine truth. For two millennia, Christians have looked to the Bible as our authority for faith and practice. Based on this understanding of deconstruction, many believers equate it with deconversion. 

Another line of thought, however, views the process in architectural terms. Grace Ruiter explains it this way, “If you think of Christian faith as a home, pursuing tough questions about your faith is a bit like tearing away the carpeting and knocking out the drywall to see the bones that lie beneath. It pulls apart your beliefs to reveal what they’re made of and what holds them together.” In this context, other Christians see faith deconstruction as a positive endeavor.

For some, this type of deconstruction may look like remodeling a single room. For others, it may resemble the complete renovation of an entire structure. In both cases, though, deconstruction can honor the value of faith as people invest time and energy to see it restored.

Because the term can be used in many different contexts, it’s wise to begin our discussion of faith deconstruction by agreeing on how we will use the term.

My Experience with Faith Deconstruction

I first heard the term faith deconstruction in the architectural context. At the time, I was several years into my own spiritual renovation. I didn’t have a word for my experience. I just knew my faith needed a complete overhaul. A series of life-changing events caused me to question everything I’d believed and practiced for decades. I didn’t want to abandon faith, but I knew I couldn’t live in the faith structure I’d built without full reconstruction.

Barnabus Piper’s definition put words to my experience: “The word ‘deconstruction’ implies intentional process, a disassembling of something in order to examine its parts. It is different than ‘destruction’ or ‘dissolving’ … Actual deconstruction allows for something to be examined and reassembled or remodeled (hopefully better and stronger.)” 

When my faith crumbled, this is exactly what God led me to do — to systematically evaluate my beliefs using Scripture as my guide. I slowly worked my way through the Bible, primarily looking for who God is and who he says we are as his children. Along the way, I studied other theological and practical faith topics. I learned about Biblical culture using study tools. I compared various Bible passages with each other. I considered commentaries and articles written by Bible scholars across denominations. 

For me, deconstruction was a time of deep healing and spiritual renewal. Ultimately, it made space for God to rebuild a stronger faith structure.

When Is Faith Deconstruction a Good Thing?

When It Leads Us Toward Christ

Deconstructing can be very painful. Most who set out to deconstruct don’t decide to do it on a whim. Contrary to a popular line of thought, many Christians who chose this process are not looking for license to sin or an excuse to abandon faith.

Most begin deconstruction from a place of deep pain. Some of have been hurt, abused, or manipulated by people in the church or by harmful church systems. Others have experienced life situations which simply don’t fit within their theological framework. Still others wrestle with questions or doubts they feel unable to voice within their faith circles.

Faith deconstruction is a good thing when it helps people encounter Christ. Jesus welcomes those who are hurting. He’s not afraid of doubts or “unspiritual” questions. He loves to reveal his heart and he longs to heal the brokenhearted (Psalm 34:18).

2. When It Strips Away What’s Rotten and Unimportant

In my city, our downtown district recently gained a beautiful new theater. Actually, it’s a historic theater that lay in disrepair until it was meticulously restored. Restorationists combed through the building, removing what was rotten and salvaging, cleaning, and polishing all that was worth saving. The result is a stunning performing arts theater that speaks of the glories of Art Deco design.

Faith deconstruction is a good thing when it leads to a similar renewal. God desires to restore as he strips away what’s rotten, tears down the extra trappings that don’t express his heart, and rebuilds faith as he intended — life-giving and soul-mending through his Spirit (Luke 10:41-42).

3. When It Corrects Misunderstandings about God’s Heart

As I began my deconstruction, I was surprised to sense God’s favor and acceptance. My faith was in pieces. My spiritual disciplines were mere shadows of what they’d once been. I was embarrassed to admit I didn’t know what I believed.

Yet throughout that season, I never felt condemnation from God, only grace-filled welcome. I sensed his patience as I wrestled with doubts, his compassion as I worked through my pain, and his hope as he began to reconstruct my faith.

He dazzled my weary soul, and I realized I didn’t know him as well as I thought I did. Though I’d been a Christian for decades, my view of God needed renovation. He beckoned me into Scripture to discover his heart and he healed mine along the way.

Faith deconstruction is a good thing when it causes us to search for God and understand who he says he is (Jeremiah 9:24).

4. When It Moves Us into the Middle Spaces of Faith

The longer I walk with God, the more I realize how small the black and white spaces of faith really are. To be sure, God defines right and wrong in his Word. Truth is not relative. But there are far more gray areas than I used to believe.

In needing decisive answers for every theological question, we can forget that other Spirit-indwelt, Bible-loving Christians hold different perspectives. Deconstruction gives space to step into the middle. Into the freedom of not having an answer for everything. Into the tension of holding paradox gently.

Jewish rabbis speak of a concept called thinking with both hands. Writing about apparent contradictions in the Bible, Lois Tverberg points out that “The rabbis simply embrace the two ideas in tension with each other rather than needing to seek resolution. By doing so, they are actually being true to the text by not ignoring passages that don’t fit their theology. They see that God alone can understand some things.”

Deconstruction is a good thing when it leads us to walk with humility and curiosity in the middle spaces of faith (Colossians 3:12, Romans 14).

5. When It Cultivates Empathy and Compassion

Until my faith fell apart, I didn’t understand the pain of a shattered life. I was quick to offer platitudes and call Christians to just be stronger. Just try harder. Just be more disciplined.

Deconstruction was God’s gift to me. Through it, and through the people who walked it with me, he began changing my self-righteous heart. He cultivated empathy and compassion in my soul. He taught me the value of listening with humility, of just being present, of loving people right where they’re at. He showed me the power of a caring community in helping people walk toward wholeness.

Deconstruction is a good thing when it softens our hearts with the compassion of Christ (Matthew 14:14).

6. When It Fosters Harmony among Christians

Differences in belief can drive deep rifts between brothers and sisters in the family of God. It’s easy to think our way of viewing nonessential issues is the only right way. We forget kindness and humility as we discuss issues of faith.

God wants us to know what we believe — to study his Word, to learn from his Spirit, to be “fully convinced in our own minds” (2 Timothy 2:15, 1 Corinthians 2:13-16, Romans 14:5). But what distinguishes us as his followers, he says, is our love for one another, not our theology (John 13:35).

Deconstruction is a good thing when it leads to unity without uniformity. Faith deepens as we celebrate what we hold in common with other believers. Harmony grows as we seek to understand why others believe as they do. Humility takes root as we learn to embrace the limitations of our own understanding.

4 Practical Tips for Walking Through Deconstruction

1. Drop Anchor

Deconstruction can be very disorienting. To use a second analogy, it can feel like drifting aimlessly in a boat with no land in sight. It’s helpful to anchor yourself during this time.

Because holding onto historical Christianity was important to me, the Bible and the Creeds were my main anchors through deconstruction. I learned to apply responsible Bible study methods so I could understand Scripture in context — with itself and with the culture in which it was written. I also evaluated my beliefs in light of what the Church has taught since its inception, considering the teachings of various denominations as I studied.

2. Look for God

God invites us to walk through deconstruction with him. Far more than a mental exercise, this process can be a time of healing and renewal as we learn from his heart and grow in relationship with him.

The main practice which guided my deconstruction was a search for God through his Word. I chose a read-through-the-Bible plan that let me study at my own pace, and then I simply looked for God, jotting down everything the Bible declared or described about his heart. The journey took me seven years and five journals, and oh, how my heart changed along the way!

3. Be Gentle with Yourself

There’s no timetable for deconstruction. God doesn’t demand that we hurry up and fix our faith so we can get back to work. On the contrary, our gentle and humble Savior desires to rebuild our faith as we engage with him — bringing him our questions, entrusting him with our pain, and learning to live relationally with his Spirit.

4. Find Healthy Community

For those who’ve been hurt in Christian circles, trusting other believers can feel like an impossible goal. Yet God intends faith to be lived out relationally. He knows the importance of being loved and received by fellow humans and he often uses other Christians as his ministers of healing.

Ask God to lead you to a safe community of believers and to teach you what indications of trustworthiness look like. This process will be different for different people. It may not always be within the walls of a church building. It may take more time than you think it should. It may even require talking with a therapist who understands spiritual trauma or joining a cohort with others who are seeking to rebuild their faith.

Be patient with yourself in this process. Don’t rush into new commitments or force yourself to engage in ways that trigger you. Simply allow your heart to be open to God as he leads you into spaces where you can heal.

Faith deconstruction has an important place in the Church. Whether you are deconstructing or walking through it with a loved one, may God work deeply within you to build a strong and flourishing faith.

Meredith N Mills writes about letting go of the try-harder life and discovering God as our safe place. Through honest devotions and reflections on faith, family, and flourishing, she helps readers taste God’s goodness and rest in his grace. Subscribe for email devotions, Multifaceted: Reflections on the Heart of God, at MeredithNMills. She’d love to connect with you on Substack, Instagram, , and Facebook.

This article originally appeared on Bible Study Tools, 03/28/2024:

https://www.biblestudytools.com/bible-study/topical-studies/6-times-deconstruction-really-is-a-good-thing.html#google_vignette

Do You Know Someone Who’s Facing a Tough Situation?

Lord, I Believe

What do you believe about God? Do you believe that He can restore? Or that He answers prayers? Do you believe that He delights in you?  

As you spend 60 days in these devotions, Lori Hatcher will reassure you of who God is and who He says you are. In each meditation, you’ll find: 

A biblical truth you can claim to rebuild your faith in the toughest circumstances  
Comforting assurances from Scripture that God is with you and for you, no matter what  
Encouragement of God’s delight and joy in you always  
A prayer and biblical affirmation to remind you of God’s steadfast presence and unwavering promises  
Heartwarming, story-centered readings from popular devotional writer Lori Hatcher 

Spend just a few minutes each day with these devotions, and let your heart find strength in the reassurance of God’s unending love for you. 

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The post Six Reasons Faith Deconstruction Can Be a Good Thing appeared first on Lori Hatcher.

              Related Stories5 Powerful Ways You Can Help Your Husband Draw Closer to GodWhen Mistakes Become Divine Appointments — Thoughts on God’s Sweet Sovereignty6 Biblical Steps When You Have to Take a Stand 

Most Christian women want our husbands to be the spiritual leaders in our home—to read the Bible with us, pray with us and for us, and guide our children in the ways of the Lord. 

Sadly, few Christian men do this. Even fewer do it well. In many Christian homes the woman is more spiritually mature than the man. She reads and studies her Bible, initiates family devotions, and leads in prayer. 

If this describes your situation, take heart. God is at work in your family. He can and will use you to influence them for Christ. You are not alone.

I wish I could give you three steps to transform your husband into a dynamic spiritual leader who will shepherd his family well, love you as Christ loves the church, and impact God’s kingdom. 

I can’t.

But I can give you five suggestions to help you come alongside God as He works in and through your husband.

Five Suggestions to Help Your Husband Draw Closer to God
1. Pray.

Prayer is one of the most neglected tools in a Christian woman’s arsenal. We fret over our husband’s lack of spiritual initiative or nag him about his lack of spiritual leadership. We compare, criticize, and complain. But we seldom pray.

When you bring the deepest desires of your heart to God and surrender them to Him, you transfer the burden of change from your shoulders to God’s. God alone has the power to transform your husband, and He’s quite capable of doing so—in His timing. Instead of criticizing, pray God’s blessings on your husband. Ask God to draw him closer, reveal Himself, and make him hungry for spiritual things. Pray Scripture over him. One of my favorite prayer guides to help me intercede on my husband’s behalf is the Revive Our Hearts 30-Day Praying for Your Husband Challenge. Print it out, place it in your Bible, and use it every day.

2. Cultivate your own relationship with God.

When we experience a lack of spiritual interest in our husbands, we sometimes grow discouraged or slack in our own spiritual disciplines. If he doesn’t care about Bible reading and prayer, why should I? Don’t fall into this trap. Much more is caught than taught, as the old adage says.

When you spend time in prayer and Bible reading every day, you declare, without saying a word, that spending time with God is both important and delightful.

When you spend time in prayer and Bible reading every day, you declare, without saying a word, that spending time with God is both important and delightful. Biblical wisdom will permeate your heart and naturally flow out of you. Don’t hesitate to share what you’re learning with your husband, but don’t do it in a preachy way. Use winsome words that will make spending time in the Bible enticing. 

3. Look for creative ways to connect with God together.

For years I longed for my husband and me to have a devotional time together. Deep down I think he did too. We knew Christian couples were supposed to connect spiritually, we just couldn’t figure out how to make it happen. I bought every couples’ devotional book on the market.

One morning as I was praying, God gave me an idea. I shared it with David the next day. “This new devotional book looks fantastic. I’d love for us to read it together. If I get up with you in the mornings and fix a little breakfast, would it be okay if I read it aloud while you ate? That way it wouldn’t take any extra time.”

To my delight he said yes. (I don’t know if it was the offer of breakfast or the desire to connect spiritually that made my offer appealing, but I didn’t care.) After years of trying we finally arrived at something that worked. Your “something” may look different from ours. Ask God for creative ideas for how to connect.

4. Ask your husband how you can pray for him, and ask him to pray for you.

One day, several weeks into our devotional time, I asked, “How may I pray for you today?”

David thought a moment, then told me about a challenging situation with a coworker. I prayed a brief prayer, then said, “I’d love for you to pray for me as I teach the girls. This math curriculum just isn’t working for us.” 

From there on, after we read the day’s devotion we asked each other, “How may I pray for you today?” David was reluctant to pray aloud, so sometimes we’d just swap prayer requests. Other times we’d pray a simple sentence prayer.

You don’t have to wait until you have a consistent devotional time to ask him how you can pray for him. Do it as he’s preparing to leave for work in the morning or as you lie next to each other at bedtime. Then pray a simple (short) prayer aloud. Praying for one another knits your hearts together and grows your love.

5. Trust God’s timing.

It took us ten or fifteen years to arrive at a routine that worked for us. Some couples don’t experience the joy of a shared devotional time until their empty nest or retirement years. Others never reach this point. 

Regardless of where you are, don’t despair. God knows the desires of your heart. He knows your husband’s heart too. Jesus said His Father is always at work (John 5:17), so you can trust Him to accomplish His good purposes in and through your family.

If we truly trust God, we’ll pray instead of fretting or nagging. We’ll cultivate our own relationship with God and look for creative ways to connect with Him together. And we’ll show love to our husband by praying for him. As we lay our requests before God, we’ll wait in hope and trust, knowing that He who began a good work in us (and our husbands) will be faithful to complete it (Phil. 1:6).

Twenty Years Later

A few years ago, in a serendipitous wink from God, Our Daily Bread Publishing asked David and me if we’d be willing to write a couples’ devotional. 

“No way,” I said. “Our marriage is still too imperfect. We’re not qualified.” 

David had a different opinion. “We’ve been so blessed by the devotionals others have written. We don’t have to be perfect to have something useful to share. If God can use our experiences to help other couples grow closer to God and to each other, how can we say no?”

How, indeed?

A year later, David and I sat across the breakfast table and turned to the first devotion in our little book, Moments with God for Couples: 100 Devotions for Drawing Closer to God and Each Other. When we finished the short reading we held hands, bowed our heads, and thanked God for the good work He began in us so many years ago. Then we prayed for other couples just like us who want to connect with God but aren’t sure how. We thanked Him in advance for the good work He has planned for them.

Now it’s your turn. How have you encouraged your husband to draw closer to God? Have you ever read a couples devotional together? Leave a comment below and share your thoughts.

*This post first appeared on Revive Our Hearts and is shared with permission.

About Moments with God for Couples

Invite God into your marriage with this 100-day devotional specifically created to draw you closer to your spouse and to God.

Whether you’ve been married for a month or 50 years, reclaim the joy in your relationship that sometimes gets lost amid personality differences, moments of pride, and life circumstances. From the Moments with God series, this volume will help you and your spouse make space to reflect Christ in your marriage every day through relatable stories, relevant Bible verses, and practical applications.

It’s time to strengthen your relationship with God and each other by replacing day-to-day disappointments and offenses with the love and grace that can only come from Him.

Moments with God for Couples is available on Amazon, Christianbook.com, and Our Daily Bread.

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The post 5 Powerful Ways You Can Help Your Husband Draw Closer to God appeared first on Lori Hatcher.

              Related StoriesThe Best Sermons Have No WordsWhen Mistakes Become Divine Appointments — Thoughts on God’s Sweet SovereigntyHow Being Broken Is the First Step to Becoming Whole 

“Many a resolution to read through the Bible was wrecked on the rocks of Leviticus.”

People all over the sanctuary nodded as my pastor said these words. I did too. I was a Leviticus shipwreck. 

Each year, I’d respond to the call to read through the Bible. I’d charge through Genesis, awed by the wonder of creation, the spellbinding faith of Abraham, and the soap-opera drama of the twelve sons of Jacob. Then I’d march into Exodus, propelled forward by the cinematic excitement of the Israelites’ emancipation from Egypt.

Then I’d hit Leviticus, a book full of fatty lobes of liver, leprosy, and blood. 

So. Much. Blood. 

But one year, I read a Bible that paired Old Testament readings with New Testament ones, and I actually made it through Leviticus. The next year, I did it again and something unexpected happened . . . I began to appreciate the book of Leviticus. 

I discovered that Leviticus is foundational to our Christian faith and a key to fully understanding the gospel—the good news of Jesus.

Imagine that.

Maybe you’re still skeptical. Believe me, I understand. But here are four glorious reasons not to skip the book of Leviticus as you read through the Bible.

1. Leviticus helps equip us for the good works God created us to do.

God, through the apostle Paul, said, “All Scripture is inspired by God and is profitable for teaching, for rebuking, for correcting, for training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work” (2 Tim. 3:16–17).

Since God inspired all Scripture (including Leviticus), and He promises to use it to complete and equip us for the good works He’s created us to do, then we should not want to miss what He teaches us in Leviticus.

2. Leviticus helps us understand ourselves—and humanity.

Prior to the Leviticus narrative, God had manifested Himself to the Israelites in a cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night. He appeared as fire on the top of Mount Sinai, complete with thunder, lightning, and earthquakes. Because of their sin, the people were forbidden to draw near.

The Book of Exodus ended as Moses, the leader of the Israelites, set up a tent in the wilderness for God to dwell in. God’s glory so filled the tabernacle that Moses was unable to enter it (Ex. 40:25). Sinful humanity couldn’t stand in the presence of a holy God.

But in Leviticus, God prepared a way to dwell—to tabernacle—with His people.

God was making a way.

Leviticus begins with these words: “Then the LORD summoned Moses and spoke to him from the tent of meeting: ‘Speak to the Israelites and tell them: When any of you brings an offering to the LORD from the livestock, you may bring your offering from the herd or the flock. . . . He will bring it to the entrance to the tent of meeting so that he may be accepted by the LORD’” (Lev. 1:1–3).

When Adam and Eve rebelled against God in the garden, He temporarily covered their sin with the skin of an animal. In Leviticus, God revealed how He would provide a way for Israel’s sin to be covered so they could live in peace and fellowship with Him (a holy God)—until the final Redeemer would come to take away sin forever.

Leviticus helps us better understand the seriousness of our sin and the astonishing mercy of God who came down from heaven to make a way so mankind would no longer be barred from His presence because of their sin. 

3. Leviticus helps us understand Jesus.

When God instituted the Levitical sacrificial system, it involved lambs, goats, and doves as a type (an example) of the final sacrifice yet to come. As the writer of Hebrews said, 

In the sacrifices there is a reminder of sins year after year. For it is impossible for the blood of bulls and goats to take away sins. . . . Every priest stands day after day ministering and offering the same sacrifices time after time, which can never take away sins. But this man [Jesus], after offering one sacrifice for sins forever, sat down at the right hand of God. (Hebrews 10:3–4, 11–12).

Jesus fulfilled God’s promise to send a Redeemer to save His people from their sins. God revealed this to John the Baptist by the river Jordan. Remember what John said? “Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” (John 1:29). 

At last, God had sent the Lamb, the final sacrifice who would shed His blood and lay down His life so humanity could have fellowship with God forever.

We can’t fully understand the glorious truth about this unless we read Leviticus. Its pages and pages of instructions about how and when and where to sacrifice capture the impossibility of making atonement for our own sins. It points to Jesus, the once-and-for-all sacrifice that ended forever our futile attempts to earn our salvation.

4. Jesus told us to read Leviticus.

Jesus never specifically said, “Read Leviticus,” but He did say, “Man must not live on bread alone but on every word that comes from the mouth of God” (Matt. 4:4). That includes the book of Leviticus. 

If Jesus—the Creator of our bodies and the Lover of our souls—calls us to live on every word God has spoken, we can trust Him. He knows what we need to grow, flourish, and walk in joyful obedience.

Leviticus will never be my favorite book of the Bible. But because it equips me for the work God calls me to do, helps me better understand my sinful condition, points me to Jesus in all His sacrificial glory, and is part of God’s good Word for my life, I no longer dread it.

I thank God for Leviticus. And as you read through the Bible this year, I hope you will too.

Now it’s your turn. What are your thoughts about the book of Leviticus? What have you gained by reading it?

This post first appeared on Revive Our Hearts and is shared with permission.

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CommentsAre You Reading Leviticus? Here are Four Glorious Reasons Not to Skip It by LoriAHatcherWhen Mistakes Become Divine Appointments — Thoughts on God’s Sweet Sovereignty by LoriAHatcherHow Being Broken Is the First Step to Becoming Whole by LoriAHatcher6 Biblical Steps When You Have to Take a Stand by LoriAHatcherA Simple Way to Battle Disappointment by LoriAHatcherPlus 5 more...Related StoriesWhen Mistakes Become Divine Appointments — Thoughts on God’s Sweet SovereigntyHow Being Broken Is the First Step to Becoming Whole6 Biblical Steps When You Have to Take a Stand 

Greetings, Refresh readers,

What happens when a routine grocery store mistake turns into a divine appointment? We are reminded that God can use everyday inconveniences for meaningful purposes. Thanks for reading today! ~Lori

Never check your grocery store receipt.

Unless, of course, you want to find a mistake. Which will then require you to stand in line at the Customer Service desk behind people sending Western Union money grams, buying lottery tickets, and complaining about over-ripe avocados.

Unfortunately, I didn’t follow my own advice. On the way out the store one evening, I couldn’t resist skimming the receipt. It didn’t take me long to spot two (not one, which I might have overlooked) price errors.  

Sigh.

Do I chalk up the loss or ask them to refund my money?

In this day of sky-high food prices, I couldn’t let it go.

The Dreaded CSD

I slapped my cart in reverse and headed back into the store. I found the shelf displays for my over-priced items, took pictures of the price tags (this isn’t my first rodeo), and headed to the CSD. For ten minutes, I stood in line behind people sending Western Union money grams, buying lottery tickets, and complaining about over-ripe avocados.

All the while, my internal dialogue played. Why do I shop here? There’s always at least one mistake. I don’t have time to wait in line. Now the traffic’s going to be even worse going home. I hate Western Union. And lottery tickets. And over-ripe avocados.

Finally, my turn came.

“Unfortunately, two of my items rang up with wrong prices,” I said. I showed her the pictures (this isn’t my first rodeo), and she compared the prices to the receipt.

“Oh, yeah,” she said, squinting at the screen, those sales are expired. They just didn’t remove the tags.”

Silence stretched between us before she said the words I was waiting to hear.

“But I’ll make it right.” She counted out bills and coins with painstaking slowness. I tucked the money in my wallet, and joyfully pointed my cart toward the door. I had one goal—to get out.

The Little Boy

That’s when I saw the little boy. 

Standing just inside the door, he anxiously scanned the parking lot, the entry way, and the face of every person who walked by. Maybe six years old, he had scared brown eyes and a furrowed brow. 

Alarm bells sounded in my heart.

I stopped so quickly the man behind me had to swerve to avoid crashing into me.

“Hey buddy,” I said, kneeling beside him to avoid triggering his Stranger Danger training. 

He inched away, his wide eyes shifting between me and the doorway.

“Do you need help?”

“I’m looking for my mama,” he said, so softly I could barely hear him.

“Oh! I can help with that,” I said, smiling my best Please don’t be afraid of me smile. I touched his shoulder and steered him inside. “Come with me, and we’ll find someone who can help you find your mama.”

He went, relief smoothing some of the wrinkles in his forehead.

Back to the CSD

Back to the Customer Service desk we went. I scanned the faces, looking for the kindest grandma type I could find.

I glanced at her name tag. “Mrs. Helen, this little guy has lost his mama. Could you help him find her?”

“C’mere baby,” she said, reaching for him. “I’ll help you.”

I turned, confident that my little friend was safe, and once again headed for the door.

I loaded my groceries in the trunk, put the car in drive, and merged into the steady stream of cars making their way home. In the churning of my thoughts, the Spirit whispered.

The Spirit’s Whisper

“If there hadn’t been a mistake on your receipt that made you wait in line at the Customer Service desk to get it corrected, you’d have been gone long before that little boy lost his mama.

“You thought you were delayed,” the Spirit continued, “but you were right where I wanted you to be.”

A picture of the little boy—wide-eyed and trembling—flashed across my mind. He  easily could have been my grandson, separated from his mother and scared that he might never see her again. Eventually someone would have noticed him—but what if that person had evil intent? Or the child could have wandered out into the busy parking lot. At best, he could have remained standing there, scared and alone, for who knows how long before his mother found him.

“Thank you, Lord,” I whispered, “for grocery errors, for little boys, and for your sweet sovereignty. Thank you for placing me exactly where I needed to be to help that little guy. Forgive me when I whine and complain about circumstances beyond my control. Grow my faith. Amen.” 

For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand,

that we should walk in them.

(Ephesians 2:10)

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Do You Know Someone with a Strong Faith Who’s Facing a Tough Situation?

Lord, I Believe

What do you believe about God? Do you believe that He can restore? Or that He answers prayers? Do you believe that He delights in you?  

As you spend 60 days in these devotions, Lori Hatcher will reassure you of who God is and who He says you are. In each meditation, you’ll find: 

A biblical truth you can claim to rebuild your faith in the toughest circumstances  
Comforting assurances from Scripture that God is with you and for you, no matter what  
Encouragement of God’s delight and joy in you always  
A prayer and biblical affirmation to remind you of God’s steadfast presence and unwavering promises  
Heartwarming, story-centered readings from popular devotional writer Lori Hatcher 

Spend just a few minutes each day with these devotions, and let your heart find strength in the reassurance of God’s unending love for you. 

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The post When Mistakes Become Divine Appointments — Thoughts on God’s Sweet Sovereignty appeared first on Lori Hatcher.

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