“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths” (Prov. 3:5–6, NKJV).
The book was How People Grow, by Drs. Henry Cloud and John Townsend. I had been courageously absorbing its wisdom for several weeks. Eventually, though, I had to stop and address a painful realization: I’m nowhere near the emotionally healthy adult I should be.
“‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future’” (Jer. 29:11, NIV).
Throughout my life, this verse has always reminded me that God is in control. There are times when I wonder why things happen the way they do or if something in my life is the right thing for me. However, each time these doubts fill my mind, I remember that God puts everything in my life for a purpose.
Story by Debra Anderson
In following the theme of Potomac Conference's mission to expand ministry beyond the walls of the physical church, on Sabbath, September 11, 2021—the 20th anniversary of 9/11—volunteers from the Takoma Park (Md.) church led an effort to extend help to a neighbor in need.
“Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you” (James 4:7, NKJV).
If someone were to ask me what the best advice I have ever received was, I would quote this verse. I have learned that the Bible is a guide, a place I can go to learn what I need to do.
Satan is the king of lies. He left heaven with that title. And there is no doubt that if he deceived the angels, he can and will deceive us. The devil even deceived me in more ways than I can explain.
“He said to them, ‘Why are you so afraid? Have you still no faith?’” (Mark 4:40, ESV).
The disciples, several of whom were experienced sailors, had been scared to death as a windstorm brought waves crashing over the side of their boat. Water filled the vessel faster than they could bail it out. Yet, Jesus slept peacefully until the disciples woke him. After calming the storm, He asked them, “Why are you so afraid? Have you still no faith?”
Peter would take this lesson to heart. In Acts 12, he endured a different kind of storm. Shackled between two guards, he slept peacefully in prison though his death was imminent.