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# A Renewed Creation

Walking with Jesus Together

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## Posts

- [Early Readers Wanted: Book #2: Living Beyond Religion Together: Rediscovering Community Through Relationship With Jesus](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2026/08/14/early-readers-wanted-book-2-living-beyond-religion-together-rediscovering-community-through-relationship-with-jesus/) - I am incredibly excited to open up the opportunity and invite you in to be part of getting ready to launch book #2. Living Beyond Religion Together: Rediscovering Community Through Relationship With Jesus In this book we will learn about how not only are we created for community, but God Himself is also community. Sin
- [Keep On Dreaming; Don't Give Up!](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2026/07/31/keep-on-dreaming-dont-give-up/) - Ever since my book, Created to Relate: Living Beyond Religion, was published, I have dreamed about getting it on the shelves of the local Christian bookstore. It has been a challenging journey, but something in me wouldn't let me let it go. I believe that was God telling me to keep trying, to keep doing
- [God Our Heavenly Father, Part 2: Our Provider and Caregiver](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2026/07/16/god-our-heavenly-father-part-2-our-provider-and-caregiver/) - One morning, I looked out my window and saw a hawk standing right in the middle of our yard. I had only seen a hawk once before, diving from the sky to snatch up its food before disappearing again. So seeing one simply standing there felt unusual. Then another hawk flew into a nearby tree.
- [Why I'm Excited to Share Crown of Beauty Magazine](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2026/07/14/why-im-excited-to-share-crown-of-beauty-magazine/) - It can be surprisingly difficult to find content for teen and young adult women that is both beautiful and deeply rooted in Jesus. That's why I was so excited when I discovered Crown of Beauty Magazine on Substack. From the very beginning, I could see their heart: to create content that helps young women grow
- [Remembering Our First Love](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2021/06/16/remembering-our-first-love/) - This year my husband Duane and I will be celebrating 25 years of marriage. Recently, we went on an early celebratory vacation. It was an exciting week of being alone, seeing a new place, and celebrating these past 25 years. It is good to remember. We are brought back to memories of the journey we
- [June Book Review and Give Away: Redefining Hustle: Navigating Success with Jesus](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2026/06/04/june-book-review-and-give-away-redefining-hustle-navigating-success-with-jesus/) - Welcome to my June Book Review and Book Giveaway, and I am excited about this book because it has shown up in just the right season, and God has used it to help me get on the road I need to be on with writing, book marketing, and speaking. Hustle...the culture uses this word constantly.
- [God, Our Heavenly Father Part 1](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2026/06/04/god-our-heavenly-father-part-1/) - My phone vibrated next to me; picking it up, I adjusted my glasses and saw it was a text coming through with a prayer request asking for prayer for a family who had lost a loved one. This year has seemed hard. We have seen death in many forms and for different reasons. My mind
- [Making Your Home Your Happy Place: A Real-Life Guide to Decluttering Without the Overwhelm by Katy Joy Wells](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2026/05/12/making-your-home-your-happy-place-a-real-life-guide-to-decluttering-without-the-overwhelm-by-katy-joy-wells/) - Have you ever felt stuck on the hamster wheel of clutter or trapped in an endless cycle of trying to care for your home? For me, it has been a season of change, and if I am going to stay organized and fully step into the things God has called me to do, something has
- [God is Our Creator: Part 2](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2026/04/08/god-is-our-creator-part-2/) - A few weeks ago, I wrote the first part of this blog, and we talked about God as our Creator, being the Creator of ALL things. There are many scriptures that talk about God as the Creator of all things. I want to encourage you to explore more of those yourself. This week, we are
- [Uncomplicate it by Hosanna Wong](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2026/03/17/uncomplicate-it-by-hosanna-wong/) - When I began reading this book, I was deeply moved by how clearly this author shares my heart for people to truly know Jesus. Not the version shaped by legalism or religion, but the real Jesus we encounter in Scripture. I felt seen in her words. It was as if she understood what it’s like
- [God Is Our Creator Part 1](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2026/03/04/god-is-our-creator-part-1/) - Have you ever just sat in a chair outside and taken in your surroundings? Have you taken a drive or a flight and just soaked in all that you were seeing? Have you watched a birth take place or been with someone as their life was ending? Have you watched a sunrise or a sunset?
- [Book Review: Upskill or Die: Thriving in the AI Revolution by Peter and Misty Phillip](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2026/02/25/book-review-upskill-or-die-thriving-in-the-ai-revolution-by-peter-and-misty-phillip/) - Today, I am here to share a review of a book that is outside my normal reading. This book has become a friend and a companion as I seek to understand this new world of AI. Peter and Misty Phillip take us through this book by sharing the different types of AI, helping us understand
- [Looking Back to Move Forward](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2026/02/18/looking-back-to-move-forward/) - Sitting in my chair, speaking into the microphone during a recent podcast interview, I found myself overwhelmed by something unexpected—gratitude. As I answered the questions, memories began to surface, and I could see it more clearly than ever: God had been with me all along, from the very beginning. My mind drifted back to where
- [Living From Who God Created You to Be](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2026/01/16/living-from-who-god-created-you-to-be/) - One thing I love about God’s Word is how it comes alive to me, no matter what season I’m in on my walk with Jesus. The last couple of weeks, I have been working on a book called The Love Your Life Project: 40 Days to Prioritize Your Passions, Cultivate Productive Habits, and Refuel With
- [Shining Like Stars](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2025/12/24/shining-like-stars/) - My husband surprised me with a trip to Sight and Sound a couple of years ago. I had this event on my "hearing" bucket list for a while, and I was excited!I was even more enthusiastic about it because they were showing Daniel. Daniel has always been one of my favorite books in the Bible.
- [Healing From Life's Deepest Hurts by Kimberly Haar](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2025/12/05/healing-from-lifes-deepest-hurts-by-kimberly-haar/) - I met my friend Kimberly Haar at an online writer's retreat several years ago. We got to know each other as we dreamed about writing our books and learned the process it would take to do that. This past year, Kimberly published her book, Healing From Life's Deepest Hurts. Kimberly weaves her walk with Jesus,
- [Communicating Our Needs](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2025/11/25/communicating-our-needs/) - Communication is the key to many things in life. When there is no communication, things are left unclear and scattered. Miscommunication is inevitable because, as human beings, we try to fill in the blanks of what we don't know. Our minds begin swirling with all that could be going on, the what-ifs, and could-be's. When
- [Where is Your House Built?](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2025/11/01/where-is-your-house-built-2/) - I wrote an article recently, and while writing, I began remembering a particularly bad hurricane that came through our area when I was a late teenager. I recalled going down to the beach to see what it was like after the storm. What I found was incredibly creepy but very eye-opening. When I went down,
- [Accepting Our Limitations](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2025/10/22/accepting-our-limitations/) - Limitations. This isn't a word I love to embrace. The Dictionary app defines this as a limiting, limiting condition; lack of capacity; inability or handicap. I want to preface this post by saying I am speaking from my own perspective as a deaf woman who was not born deaf. I have worn hearing aids from
- [Building Relationship and Trust](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2025/10/17/building-relationship-and-trust/) - When we first came to Christian Hill Community Church almost 18 years ago, my youngest son, David, was in third grade. They have a Children's Ministry there, and David would go down during the service. Now, I firmly believe that as a parent, I need to help out in the area my child was involved
- [Surrendering Certainty Book Review and Giveaway](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2025/10/08/surrendering-certainty-book-review-and-giveaway/) - Abby McDonald and I met in the Proverbs 31 Compel Writers program. She was a growing writer and a kind and gentle lady. We became friends through our time there, and I loved her first book, Shift. I relate to her in many ways, and she has a sweet, warm way of writing that makes
- [Blessed Are The Pure In Heart](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2025/09/30/blessed-are-the-pure-in-heart/) - Pure in heart...those words petrified me when I first read them. I was already disqualified in my mind, and I began to wonder how or if I would be able to see God. This is what legalism and wrong religious mindsets cause in us. Panic, anxiety, the feeling that everything is dependent on whether or
- [Katerina's Story](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2025/07/22/katerinas-story/) - I wasn’t confident. I didn’t enjoy public speaking or even engaging in group conversations. I was quiet and reserved, not someone you would ever picture standing up in front of a class and sharing about a disability. But, over the years, I’ve seen how God can use our weaknesses to bring Him glory. For me,
- [Blessed Are The Merciful](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2025/07/16/blessed-are-the-merciful/) - Blessed are the merciful , for they shall receive mercy I must confess that this scripture prompts me to examine myself deeply. I look back over my life with this scripture in mind, and there are moments where I cringe a little, and sometimes a lot. Strong's definition of merciful is compassionate. The Internet definition
- [Blessed Are Those Who Hunger And Thirst](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2025/06/27/blessed-are-those-who-hunger-and-thirst/) - The author reflects on their spiritual thirst for God, drawing from Psalm 42 and Matthew 5:6. They express a deep longing for connection with Jesus amid life's distractions. By practicing daily quiet time with God, they seek renewal and satisfaction that only He can provide, emphasizing the importance of this relationship for fulfillment.
- [Blessed Are Those Who Mourn](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2025/05/07/blessed-are-those-who-mourn/) - When I read this scripture, I sat with my thoughts for a while, thinking back to times of mourning in my life. When I was younger, I thought this word mourning was just meant for when people died, or when people lost loved ones, but as I have lived life over the last 50 years,
- [Blessed are the Gentle](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2025/05/28/blessed-are-the-gentle/) - “Blessed are the gentle, for they will inherit the earth." Matthew 5:5 (NASB) The word gentle here comes from the Greek word praus, which means mild, humble, meek, gentleness of spirit, and meekness towards God. It means we are wholly relying on God rather than our own strength and abilities. As a woman, I was brought
- [  A Childhood Memory, A Lifelong Comfort  ](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2025/05/15/a-childhood-memory-a-lifelong-comfort/) - written by Kayla Stannard “He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.” – Revelation 21:4 (ESV) The very first scripture I ever memorized as a child was Revelation 21:4. I was
- [Rooted in Silence, Blossoming in Spirit – Whispers of God, Blooming from Silent Ground](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2025/04/26/rooted-in-silence-blossoming-in-spirit-whispers-of-god-blooming-from-silent-ground/) - Written by Kayla Stannard “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,gentleness, and self-control…” —Galatians 5:22–23 I’m a Christian now. That sentence may sound simple, but it’s the result of a long, winding journey throughsilence, religion, questioning, and finally—grace. I didn’t arrive here quickly. I wandered. I wrestled. I
- [Blessed are the Poor in Spirit](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2025/04/19/blessed-are-the-poor-in-spirit/) - Matthew 5:3 Blessed are the poor in Spirit, for theirs is the Kingdom of Heaven. To envision what it might have been like to sit in those crowds while listening to Jesus speak. I often wonder what Jesus was thinking and feeling as He looked out at the crowd of people. What did He look
- [The Beginning of the Beatitudes](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2025/04/04/the-beginning-of-the-beatitudes/) - This week, we are starting our series on the Beatitudes. I am incredibly excited about digging into these scriptures and talking about them together. As I began reading about Jesus' Sermon on the Mount, I began to daydream a little bit. Now, I love going to church and sitting and hearing the words that God
- [Distractions that Lead to Emptiness](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2025/03/21/distractions-that-lead-to-emptiness/) - It was a work day, and I was hustling around to get things done. I heard the Lord whisper the word "distractions." I wasn't sure what He was trying to tell me then, so I asked HIm to clarify and fill in my missing links, as I like to call them. As He began to
- [The Titus Two Friendships Part Two](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2015/07/30/the-titus-two-friendships-part-two/) - "Older women likewise are to be reverent in their behavior, not malicious gossips nor enslaved to too much wine, teaching what is good, so they may encourage the young women to love their husbands, to love their children, to be sensible, pure, workers at home, kind, being subject to their own husbands, so that the
- [The Titus Two Friendships Part One](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2015/07/23/the-titus-two-friendships-part-one/) - "Older women likewise are to be reverent in their behavior, not malicious gossips nor enslaved to too much wine, teaching what is good, so they may encourage the young women to love their husbands, to love their children, to be sensible, pure, workers at home, kind, being subject to their own husbands, so that the
- [Faith of Obligation…Faith of Application](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2025/02/20/faith-of-obligationfaith-of-application/) - Written by Heather Gately Rooted in Catholicism, although not strictly, I came to know God in a certain way. Pretty steeples and stained glass windows, frilly white dresses, and a little white purse with a book filled with words too small for my young eyes. Confirmed as an adult, a choice made only for the
- [Crocheted 4 Change](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2025/02/12/crocheted-4-change/) - My name is Kailana Nitz, and I’m a teen girl who loves crocheting products to bless lives and fight human trafficking. I started my business, Crocheted 4 Change when I was 12 years old. However, the dream and the passion for fighting human trafficking and owning a small business started when I was younger. When
- [In the Stillness](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2025/01/13/in-the-stillness/) - Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's celebrations are over. The hustle and bustle of the world begins to slow down for Winter. It was a weird feeling after having people around, my husband home from work, and the granddog we were dog-sitting ready to greet me first thing in the morning, suddenly not around. Quiet sets
- [The Rachel Effect by Lauren McNeely](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2025/01/06/the-rachel-effect-by-lauren-mcneely/) - This new book, The Rachel Effect by Lauren McNeely, is a must-read for women. Lauren takes us on a journey through the life of Rachel and Leah in the Bible while, along the way, sharing her personal struggles, stuck mindsets, and pain from comparison. She gets to the roots of why we compare, exposes the
- [Encircled by Gail Cooper](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2025/01/02/encircled-by-gail-cooper/) - A powerful book by a beautiful author who has found her strength, healing, and rest in the Lord Jesus. Words escape me as I attempt to describe this book. From the moment I read the first page, I kept wanting to read. I experienced every emotion possible as I read each chapter. Tears flowed as
- [Glimmers Of Light and Hope in a Dark Sky](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2024/12/12/glimmers-of-light-and-hope-in-a-dark-sky/) - I have fond memories of traveling to upstate New York to visit my husband's grandma and family. I loved the cool nights, and the skies always seemed a little darker there. I would linger in the yard, staring up at the night sky, admiring the bright, twinkling stars that stood out like diamonds. Sometimes, I
- [DIfferent Seasons Of Mentoring and Discipleship](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2024/12/11/different-seasons-of-mentoring-and-discipleship/) - For the last ten years or so, I have had a few different young adult discipleship groups where we would gather together to get into the word, pray for one another, and build relationships. It has been a joy-filled time of growing relationships with this generation and a learning experience on how to do things
- [Unstuck Book Review](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2024/12/11/unstuck-book-review/) - Today, I am excited to share about Abigail Brown's new book, Unstuck: Moving from Resentment to Resilience While Living with Dystonia. I met Abigail online through writing connections, and we have become friends. As I read through the chapters of her book, I got to know her in a much deeper and more personal way.
- [Letting God Lead](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2024/11/06/letting-god-lead/) - The day was just beginning. I had my tea in hand, a devotional read, and my mind began swirling about what needed to be done. The Holy Spirit said to me, "You are doing it again!" Sure enough, I was going into my figure-it-out mode. My brain was already tired from running in multiple directions.
- [Coming Soon!](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2024/10/30/coming-soon/) - Ever since I was a young girl, I have loved the feel of a book in my hands. The library was my friend, and I could hide there for hours. There is something about the smell of a book, new or old, and now, with my cochlear implant, I can hear the turning of the
- [Champion! by Lauren McNeeley](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2024/09/05/champion-by-lauren-mcneeley/) - A champion can be someone who shows superior skill or ability, but it can also mean someone who fights or speaks for another person or in favor of a cause. I love that it’s both. The word comes from the Latin root fighter. Becoming someone who shows superior skill or ability takes a fighting spirit,
- [It's Out! Now What?](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2024/08/26/its-out-now-what/) - Last week was an amazing reality: I saw my book, Created to Relate: Living Beyond Religion, come out of hiding and be officially published. This week is the last week of the online book launch, and the question is, Now what? This is all a first for me, too. I have spent so much time
- [It's Like Christmas Eve Around Here](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2024/08/19/its-like-christmas-eve-around-here/) - I have been thinking about the reality that my book will officially come out to the world tomorrow! All the years of writing and the months of planning, marketing, and book launching have led up to this day. I understand why people relate this process to having a baby. Tonight has been full of tears,
- [Saying Yes to God Brings Opposition](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2024/07/29/saying-yes-to-god-brings-opposition/) - This week, I began my online book launch to introduce my first book, Created to Relate: Living Beyond Religion, which I am preparing to release on August 20th. Going into this week, I knew that, just like with everything else in this book, Satan, the enemy of our souls, would oppose and frustrate me.Tweet He
- [Getting Ready!!](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2024/07/23/getting-ready/) - I woke up this morning with a multitude of emotions hitting me all at once. This is the week that I start launching this new book out into the world. Along the way, I have dreamed about what it would all look like, and I think at the end of the day, there are two
- [In the Waiting Time](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2024/07/15/in-the-waiting-time/) - Merriam-Webster defines the verb to wait - to stay in a place of expectation. One of my favorite scriptures growing up as a young believer was Isaiah 40:30-31. "Though youths grow weary and tired, and vigorous young men stumble badly, yet those who wait for the Lord will gain new strength; they will mount up
- [Talitha Cumi by Lauren McNeeley](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2024/07/08/talitha-cumi-by-lauren-mcneeley/) - Taking her by the hand, He (Jesus) said to her, "Talitha cumi," which means, "Little girl, I say to you arise." I read this verse in Mark chapter five several years ago. It's a great story—I suggest you read the whole thing. However, one verse seemed to jump off the page and awaken my spirit
- [What's Up Doc? Tips to Avoid Medical GasLighting by Shannon Cramer](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2024/07/03/whats-up-doc-tips-to-avoid-medical-gaslighting-by-shannon-cramer/) - "Hypochondriac: Overly-anxious. Attention seeker." I was called all of these names during my twenties when I was searching for answers to my debilitating fatigue. Despite sleeping fourteen hours a day, I woke up just as tired as when my head hit the pillow. This wasn't me. I was the active honor roll student who couldn't
- [Choices, Decisions, and It Is Starting to Getting Real](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2024/06/17/choices-decisions-and-it-is-starting-to-getting-real/) - The contract was signed and the first phone call with the Publisher was set up to happen. I had a beaming smile and an excited heart. The first phone call came, and then the second. I had a sheet with all kinds of things to figure out and fill in. I had more editing and
- [Signing the Contract and Handing in the Manuscript](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2024/06/10/signing-the-contract-and-handing-in-the-manuscript/) - Perseverance paid off, and I finally finished my manuscript. Next was to go through the content editing. God provided an AMAZING content editor who taught me an immeasurable amount. She also became a treasured friend, Peggy Bodde, who just launched her book, Sacred Work.Tweet All through that process was a gentle amount of growing pains
- [Learning to Persevere With A Weary Heart](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2024/06/03/learning-to-persevere-with-a-weary-heart/) - The last several years of this book-writing process have been like taking a ride on a yo-yo. As I finished each chapter and felt closer to being finished with the book, we encountered a multitude of interruptions and distractions, as well as the process of rereading and realizing there was still much more work to
- [Discovering Who I Am as a Writer](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2024/05/20/discovering-who-i-am-as-a-writer/) - As I began blogging and working through my COMPEL writing program, one of the things discussed was finding your writer's voice. This was a journey in itself for me. There were many different voices in the writing world to compare yourself to and many boxes to fit into. The struggle for me is that I
- [Breakdowns and Breakthroughs on the Writing Highway](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2024/05/27/breakdowns-and-breakthroughs-on-the-writing-highway/) - As I found my writing voice and continued the journey of putting this message God had put on my heart out on paper, I didn't realize the deeply personal roads it would take me on. From the beginning of the introduction, my heart and mind were forced to look back at where this all started
- [Taking Small Steps Forward to the Dream](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2024/05/13/taking-small-steps-forward-to-the-dream/) - Where to begin was the question I began asking as I started this journey. I began educating myself and looking at different ways to create a blog. There are a million choices out there, and that was overwhelming to me. At the same time, I was looking into places to learn about writing and how
- [The Beginning of the Story](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2024/05/06/the-beginning-of-the-story/) - Our oldest son, Kyle, was slowly inching his way to graduating, and in the moments I allowed myself to think about that reality, panic came over me for so many reasons. One cause of panic was I didn't know who I would be or what I would do once they became adults. I began praying
- [Wake Up!](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2024/04/29/wake-up/) - I’ve been thinking a lot lately, and I’ve come to this conclusion: it’s hard to live aChristian life in our contemporary Christian world. Another thought has been it’s not ashard to live as a Christian in a lost world as it is to live a Christian life in a “churched”world. What do I mean? I
- [God's Musical Footprints in My Life](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2024/04/15/gods-musical-footprints-in-my-life/) - My mom loved the poem Footprints and it became a favorite of mine over the years as well. If you aren't familiar with the poem, it is about a man who had a dream that he was walking with the Lord on the beach. Scenes of his life passed before him, and in some of
- [The Original Authentic Self](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2024/04/03/the-original-authentic-self/) - I visited a college town the other day. I was nostalgic and inspired all at the same time. Acollege campus is full of hopes and dreams. It’s full of students trying on personalities andpoints of view. A place to find yourself. I remember that feeling. The hopes of who you will become when you grow
- [Recognizing God in the Dark Places of Our Lives](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2024/03/20/recognizing-god-in-the-dark-places-of-our-lives/) - One Sunday morning, I walked into church early while my husband went to pray with the Elders. I walked into the sanctuary where the Praise team was practicing. The room was dark, and I struggled to see who was there. I began looking around for a place to sit and felt a tap on my One Sunday morning, I walked into church early while my husband went to pray with the Elders. I walked into the sanctuary where the Praise team was practicing. The room was dark, and I struggled to see who was there. I began looking around for a place to sit and felt a tap on my
- [Sanctified Cycle](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2024/02/19/sanctified-cycle/) - Hello again! This month I am excited to share with you the beautiful Joy. Peace. Jesus cycle, which is another way of living with Jesus in order to become more like him from my book, The Rachel Effect, which is coming soon. In the book, we get down to the root of comparison, accept who
- [Mirror Moments](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2024/02/12/mirror-moments/) - Mirrors, there are many different kinds of mirrors with different messages. The mirror in my hairdresser's bathroom tells me I look a little taller and thinner than in reality, and I look much more put together than I feel. I find that they need to put that mirror in dressing rooms in stores that actually
- [Tired of Trying by Ashley Morgan Jackson](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2024/02/01/tired-of-trying-by-ashley-morgan-jackson/) - Today I am sharing about one of my treasured reads from last year. This was a favorite for many reasons and I am going to share some reasons for this with you. My friend Ashley shares about a hard, challenging, and painful season in her life. A season where like Jacob in the Bible, God
- [Resolve to Persevere](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2024/01/22/resolve-to-persevere/) - I am excited to share this blog with you on a Renewed Creation. The topic of living with Jesus in order to become more like him is the main theme in my book, The Rachel Effect, which is coming soon. In the book we get down to the root of comparison, accept who we are,
- [Pondering the Past Year](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2023/12/29/pondering-the-past-year/) - Pondering the past year and who God has been to me in it.
- [Emmanuel; God with US](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2023/12/18/emmanuel-god-with-us/) - We hear the name Emmanuel often during the Christmas season. It brings memories of Christmas Eve service and looking out your window while snow falls quietly on that Silent Night. If you have been a Christian for a while, you know what that name means: God with us. The Christmas definition of Emmanuel means that
- [Sharing the Mess that leads to the Miracle](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2023/12/04/sharing-the-mess-that-leads-to-the-miracle/) - Thanksgiving was a sweet time this year. As I looked around, I realized I was witnessing answered prayers and miracles both inside me and around me. I began to think about the messy pathway that had been walked to get to this place, and I found myself pondering Joseph, Mary, and Jesus' journey. An angel
- [Reflecting with a Thankful Heart](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2023/11/20/reflecting-with-a-thankful-heart/) - I waited patiently for the LORD;And He inclined to me and heard my cry.He brought me up out of the pit of destruction, out of the miry clay,And He set my feet upon a rock making my footsteps firm.He put a new song in my mouth, a song of praise to our God;Many will see
- [David's Story](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2017/11/15/davids-story/) - Hi, my name is David Taylor and I am 18 years old. As I’m sure you know, my mom, Desiree, is the wonderful woman who writes on this website. If you have read her “About Me” page, then you know she has cochlear implants and that I am her youngest son that was diagnosed as
- [Abigail's Story: I Can SMILE Because...](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2017/09/25/abigails-story-i-can-smile-because/) - "You have such a beautiful smile!" People often say this to me, and I so want to respond by saying, “Thank you.” But I only smile again and say nothing. I am unable to speak. Why smile when I can’t talk? Let me explain. My name is Abigail Brown, though most
- [Robby’s Story By Sherri Zummo](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2018/11/01/robbys-story-by-sherri-zummo/) - Sixteen years ago, I was on the way to the hospital to be induced to deliver my son. I found out when I was five months pregnant that my second child was going to be a boy. I was so excited. I had a 4 year old daughter and now I would have a son
- [Jamie’s Life and Miracles of God](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2020/10/28/jamies-life-and-miracles-of-god/) - My name is Donna, I am Jamie’s mother I have the privilege of telling you asmall portion of his life story. I have found it difficult to write this article asthere is so much, I would love to share with you about him. Jamie’s life was full ofmiracles from his birth right up to the
- [The Heart Behind The Page](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2023/02/08/the-heart-behind-the-page/) - When I was in fourth grade, I got my first hearing aid. My mom was deaf with the same sensorineural hearing loss. My hearing loss had progressed to the place where I needed this new, strange device. My speech had deteriorated to a point where my voice would sound nasally, and the kids, especially the
- [The Truth of the Matter](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2023/11/13/the-truth-of-the-matter/) - Why do I compare myself to others all the time? A better question is, why do I compare myself to the version of myself that I dream of becoming but am far from? You know, that version you post on social media. The version of yourself you imagine you will be someday but never seem
- [The Dream Of A Renewed   Creation](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2018/12/18/the-dream-of-a-renewed-creation/) - I have had my hearing loss a long time. It began when I was very young. I received my first hearing aid at the age of nine and progressed over my life. I now am a bi-lateral cochlear implant recipient. Communication and socialization were always difficult and challenging for me, but I loved to write,
- ["I Want It All" by Gwen Smith](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2016/06/29/i-want-it-all-by-gwen-smith/) - As I read this book, I felt as though I was sitting and talking with a friend. A friend who understood the struggles and knew for herself and for her readers that if we truly want to have all Christ has died and rose again to give us, there were things we needed to
- [Fear Fighting by Kelly Balarie](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2017/01/03/fear-fighting-by-kelly-balarie/) - This is not a book by just an author, it is a book written by a friend. Not just any friend but a friend who has been where you are and one show shares the struggle. Kelly Balarie is a beautiful woman of God who loves the Lord and loves His people and wants
- [Meet The New You. A Book Review.](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2016/01/02/meet-the-new-you-a-book-review/) - This year has been one of deep self-evaluation in the Lord's presence. Over the years I have struggled with changing unhealthy and dysfunctional habits in my life to creating habits that are healthy and will help me live the victorious life, Jesus died to give me, that I desire to live. I notice I will
- [Transforming Testimony And Giveaway - "Sunlight Burning At Midnight" by Jessica Ronne](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2017/12/07/transforming-testimony-and-giveaway-sunlight-burning-at-midnight-by-jessica-ronne/) - This, is a story about love, life, and death. Jessica married her first love, Jason and life is good but soon trials come. The choices are to hold onto her faith in God or give in to despair and the world's idea of a solution. Jessica shares her heart, transparently and fully in this beautiful
- [God’s Unexpected Blessing](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2021/05/12/gods-unexpected-blessing/) - How often do we find that our greatest joys in life are the unexpected blessings God reveals? Through trials and disappointments, joys and pains, He goes before us, crafting plans for good. Although I did not know Jesus as I grew up, His eye was on me. In hindsight, I see the ways He steered
- [The Divine Adventure - Book Review and Give Away](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2021/07/07/the-divine-adventure-book-review-and-give-away/) - Rebecca Friedlander is a new author to me. When I read the title, The Divine adventure, I was intrigued. Especially when it was tied to Spiritual Practices for a Modern-Day Disciple. Most of the things I have read on Spiritual Disciplines have come from a very legalistic, mundane, and boring view. This was anything but
- [Living In All of Who I Am](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2023/11/08/living-in-all-of-who-i-am/) - For You formed my inward parts; You wove me in mother's womb. I will give thanks to you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Wonderful are Your works, And my soul knows it full well. My frame was not hidden from You, When I was made in secret, and skillfully wrought in the depths
- [Getting Ready for My "NO" Season](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2023/11/02/getting-ready-for-my-no-season/) - NO. It is a hard word to say for those of us who like to say YES. The Dictionary app defines NO as (a negative used to express dissent, denial, or refusal, as in response to a question or request). I find it interesting that for most of my life, the word NO has been
- [Living Life In The Better Thing](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2023/10/23/living-life-in-the-better-thing/) - Recently, I have switched from writing at home to working work hours and working at a coffee shop in different areas to put more focused time into my writing and working towards my writing goals. This comes with a need for more diligent discipline and saying "no" to things and people I want to say
- [Where Is Your House Built?](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2023/10/16/where-is-your-house-built/) - All throughout my childhood, I was told about the 1938 Hurricane. My grandparents were affected by this storm, and we had a neighbor whose mother had been sitting on the beach having a luncheon with her church group when the storm came in. This storm took everyone by surprise. There wasn't any warning at all.
- [Praising God Through The Storms](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2023/10/09/praising-god-through-the-storms/) - We are back with our third blog post in our Mental Battleground series. This week, we are discussing the power of worshipping through our storms. "When He got into the boat, His disciples followed Him. And behold, there arose a great storm on the sea, so that the boat was being covered with the waves;
- [Michelle Taylor - Advocacy Journey](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2023/10/04/michelle-taylor-advocacy-journey/) - My name is Michelle Taylor, and I am the proud mom to a 13-year-old girl with Prader-Willi syndrome, Addison. My journey with Addison began three years prior to finding out I was pregnant with her. My husband, Curtis, and I had a 4-year-old son, Darryn, and were working on strengthening our family unit after a
- [Seeking God With Our Whole Heart](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2023/10/02/seeking-god-with-our-whole-heart/) - As we continue in our mental battleground series, we will talk about the second thing God shared with me as I have walked through that battlefield. “For thus says the LORD, ‘When seventy years have been completed for Babylon, I will visit you and fulfill My good word to you, to bring you back to
- [Remembering God's Faithfulness](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2023/09/25/remembering-gods-faithfulness/) - Last week, we talked about the Mental Battleground, and this week, we will dig into those places where God led me as I have walked through some of my most challenging mental battle seasons. One of the struggles in this mental battlefield is that the enemy keeps trying hard to keep our thoughts on the
- [Stones Of Remembrance](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2019/06/11/stones-of-remembrance/) - It was a hard day. I needed to get out of the house. I love going to consignment shops, and it always does my heart good to walk around and look for that diamond in the rough. This particular day, I found this framed piece. It is not a fancy piece of art, but the
- [Remembering Where We Came From](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2019/08/14/remembering-where-we-came-from/) - I had to run to Walmart for some home goods this morning. This is a familiar place. Over 25 years ago this store opened up. I was looking for a job that paid more than what I was making in the fast food joint. The ad showing off the brand new Walmart store coming to
- [Becoming A "JoyKeeper"](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2020/08/12/becoming-a-joykeeper/) - This week on my blog, I am highlighting the book, "JoyKeeper" by my friend and author, Suzanne Eller. This book has come at an essential time for me and others. We are in a season where joy has been hard to keep, and there are circumstances all around us to distract us and bring us
- [She Walked Before Us: Grace, Courage, and Strength From 12 Women of the Old Testament by Jill Eileen Smith: Review and Giveaway!](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2021/01/15/she-walked-before-us-grace-courage-and-strength-from-12-women-of-the-old-testament-by-jill-eileen-smith-review-and-giveaway/) - Recently, a dear friend and I were chatting and brainstorming about studies we might do with the women in our church body. We began talking about digging into the women in the bible, and we started talking about some of the different ones. We began realizing God talked about many women in the bible. It
- [Tested And Approved: 21 Lessons For Life And Ministry by Tom Lane, Review and Giveaway!!](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2021/01/29/tested-and-approved-21-lessons-for-life-and-ministry-by-tom-lane-review-and-giveaway/) - I was thrilled to have the opportunity to read this book through the BlogAbout Blogger Network through the Blythe Daniel Agency. I wasn't fully sure what it was about, but I knew I was working on life routines and disciplines, as well as working in ministry. I knew there was something here for me to
- [The Growing Season - A Year of Down-On-The-Farm Devotional, Book Review](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2021/10/20/the-growing-season-a-year-of-down-on-the-farm-devotional-book-review/) - My husband and I have an ongoing joke around the house. Whenever a friend has gotten chickens or goats or creates a garden, and he asks if I think I would ever consider doing that, I just reply with, "I support the Farmer". Farming has never been a dream for me or anything I would
- [The Mental BattleGround](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2023/09/18/the-mental-battleground/) - I don't know if you know this about me, but I am a fairly simple girl with a mind that thinks way deep sometimes and a heart that feels even more deeply. God has used these beautiful qualities for so much good, but the enemy has also used them for not-so-good, and they have been
- [Pause, Pray, Praise: Three Lessons from Rock Bottom](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2020/09/23/pause-pray-praise-three-lessons-from-rock-bottom/) - My name is Baylee Dunn. I am among one in five adults in the United States of America who live with a diagnosable mental health condition. In my case, it is Bipolar I disorder with Psychotic Features. But, this has not always been clear. I suspect that I had my first episode around eighteen years
- [Putting On Truth](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2020/09/02/putting-on-truth/) - Recently I began reading the book "Victory in Spiritual Warfare," by Tony Evans. This season has prompted my heart to go deeper in prayer, and I am desiring to understand what it truly means to put on the full armor of God. 10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His
- [Living With An "I Get To" Attitude](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2023/09/11/living-with-an-i-get-to-attitude/) - I was standing in the bathroom, brushing my teeth last minute, before running out the door to the dentist to get my teeth cleaned. You could hear me grumbling through the water running. I was tired, and I didn't want to go. The Holy Spirit gave a convicting tug and brought me back to the
- ["Just Rest"; The 90-Day Devotional Turned Year-          Long Journey](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2023/01/04/just-rest-the-90-day-devotional-turned-year-long-journey/) - It was late Spring, and I felt God calling me into a time of rest. I had been burning out on too many things I had said "yes" to for various reasons. Life itself was bringing some situations that needed to be more of a priority at the moment, and I was finding myself feeling
- [You Are Worth Fighting For](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2023/08/21/you-are-worth-fighting-for/) - The other day I was driving down the road with my radio turned to K-love. A song came on and today was one of those days I was able to understand most of the words. It was a song called, "Egypt" by Corey Asbury. The chorus came on and these words just hit the core
- [No.thing - Leverage Your "Nothing" by Leaping into God's Everything Book Review](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2022/03/02/no-thing-leverage-your-nothing-by-leaping-into-gods-everything-book-review/) - Several years ago, I went on a retreat in Oklahoma. This trip was a massive step of faith for me. These women were ones I had met in one of those Facebook groups online. Many were writers like me, who had dreams to write a book. We were celebrating one author's published book while we
- [We Are Alive](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2022/03/30/we-are-alive/) - This statement may get some of us thinking or it may have us a little confused. We are alive or we wouldn't be reading this right now, right?! I remember as a teenager, struggling and lonely. I have shared that my hearing loss came with social struggles and the more you are rejected, the more
- [We Are Free](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2023/08/14/we-are-free/) - This journey with Jesus has been a long and winding one. For many years I have heard, read, and even said that we must take those lies the enemy has fed us and replace them with the truth. Like several other things I learned, I took it but never really understood how to do it
- [We Are Forgiven](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2023/08/07/we-are-forgiven/) - It was a hard day; the house was a mess, I was not looking too pretty either. I was dragging physically and in every other way while trying to be a good mom in the middle of it. That didn't seem to be working out too well that day either. I couldn't get it right.
- [We Are Heard](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2023/07/31/we-are-heard/) - I sat across a restaurant booth with a friend one day. We were talking about life and sharing our hearts. There was a pause, and she said to me, "You are one of the best listeners I know. " I was blessed I had made her feel that I had heard her; she was cared
- [We Are Seen](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2023/07/24/we-are-seen/) - I love the experience of walking into the church doors and hearing my name being called. As I turn around, I see a young friend calling out, "Miss Des," as she runs to greet me with big hugs and lots of love. I leave that moment feeling seen and very loved! Many people go in
- [We Are Known](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2023/07/17/we-are-known/) - Just recently, we were at a meet and greet at our church. The purpose of this event was for those coming into membership to get a chance to meet the Pastor, Elders, Deacons, and the staff. Every table I went to sit at and meet people, I heard how they came to the church, stories
- [We Are Loved; More Than A Knowing.](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2023/07/12/we-are-loved-more-than-a-knowing/) - "Jesus Loves Me! This I know, For the Bible tells me so; Little ones to Him belong; They are weak, but He is strong." Most of us are familiar with this children's song. For those of us who have grown up in church, we have been told that God loves us over and over again
- [Who Am I?](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2023/07/06/who-am-i/) - There is a movie I used to watch called "The Runaway Bride." Julia Roberts plays a woman who had been engaged and at the wedding altar three times. As it showed each relationship, you can see how this woman became the other person instead of being herself in the relationship. She liked the same eggs;
- [A Creator's Design](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2023/06/28/a-creators-design/) - I struggle to remember things sometimes. Visual memories get lost easily for me, and I am usually only left with the emotions felt in the moment. A few memories are still as visually clear for me as they were when they happened. Two of those memories that remain as clear as day are the memories
- [Breaking Out Of The "DO" Mentality](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2023/06/05/breaking-out-of-the-do-mentality/) - People ask you some interesting questions once your children are grown and out of the house and empty nest season has hit. One particular question has been asked more times than I can count. It is the question, "What are you doing now?" It is as though there is some grand expectation that once the
- [Cultivating The Ground of Our Hearts](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2023/04/28/cultivating-the-ground-of-our-hearts/) - It is Spring here in New England. One of the first signs of this truth for me is aside from the smell of the air and the birds singing; it is the smells of the farm. On my ride from home to church, right at a particular exit, the smell of cut grass and manure
- [Do The Thing - Encouragement For the Go-Getter Girl Trying to Reach The Finish Line](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2023/04/07/do-the-thing-encouragement-for-the-go-getter-girl-trying-to-reach-the-finish-line/) - God has a way of bringing the right books into my life at the right time. So when I was given the opportunity to join the launch team for Do The Thing - Gospel Centered Goals, Gumption, and Grace For The Go-Getter Girl by author Rebecca George, I jumped on it. I just knew this
- [Divine Detour - When God Takes a Different Turn On The Road To Home.](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2023/04/07/divine-detour-when-god-takes-a-different-turn-on-the-road-to-home/) - I met Lori Ann Wood several years ago at a Writer's retreat. From the moment I met her, I knew there was something very sweet and special about this lady. As I got to know her and heard her story more, it made me want to get to know her a little deeper. We have
- [God, I Feel Sad; Helping Children Bring Their Big Emotions to A Bigger God](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2023/04/07/god-i-feel-sad-helping-children-bring-their-big-emotions-to-a-bigger-god/) - This beautifully illustrated Children's book has become one of my favorites. It is one of those books I would have loved to read as a child and had on my own children's bookshelf, but it will be one I have on my grandchildren's bookshelf when they arrive :). Emotions. I come from a generation that
- [Shifting Seasons-Leaving Behind For What Is Ahead](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2023/04/04/leaving-behind-for-what-is-ahead/) - It was a beautiful morning. The sun was shining in the windows throughout the house, announcing the day had begun. For me, it was to be a writing day, and I prepared to get started. I planned to start in my office and then go to the local library for a while. After sitting at
- [Waiting Is An Action Word](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2023/03/29/waiting-is-an-action-word/) - I need to preface this blog post with the truth that I am writing this out of a season of seeking God in my own waiting time and not out of a place where I live this perfectly. So let's get that out in the open right away. Often we think of waiting times like
- [Why Is Waiting On God So Hard?](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2023/03/16/why-is-waiting-on-god-so-hard/) - "We are here AGAIN?" I shouted at the Lord. I don't know about you, but I feel as though, just like our bodies are made up of an average of 60% water, my life has been made up of about 60% waiting seasons, and probably even higher than that percentage. Waiting is not easy. It
- [The Journey Here](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2023/03/01/the-journey-here/) - "Two are better than one because they have a good return for their labor. For if either of them falls, the one will lift up his companion. But woe to the one who falls when there is not another to lift him up." Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 This has been one of my most meaningful verses along
- [Sex - Created For God's Best](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2023/02/23/sex-created-for-gods-best/) - Sex....it's one of those topics not talked about out loud very often in the church or anywhere else, except the places that don't teach us with God's perspective in mind. When we leave these important topics closed, we allow the world and the enemy to creep in and teach our children about it all instead.Tweet
- [Unequally Yoked - What's The Big Deal?](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2023/02/17/unequally-yoked-whats-the-big-deal/) - Anyone in the Christian circle has heard the statement, "don't be unequally yoked." But what does this actually mean, and why should we not do this? We often hear about the do's and don'ts and not much about the whys.Tweet If we tell a child not to stick his finger in the power socket and
- [The Gift Found in the Book Prayer Starters](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2023/02/08/the-gift-found-in-the-book-prayer-starters-2/) - The last few weeks have been a battle. Sure, there have been many good things happening in the middle of the hard, and from the outside looking in, things probably don't seem so bad to others. The things I have struggled with and wrestled with don't seem as big as the battles others are facing
- [Loneliness - The Enemy's Playground](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2023/02/07/loneliness-the-enemys-playground/) - From the early moments in the Garden of Eden, God has said; Then the LORD God said, “It is not good for the man to be alone; I will make him a helper suitable for him.” Genesis 2:18 This month with Valentine's Day approaching, it can bring a highlighter to loneliness. So I thought it
- [Counting The Cost](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2023/01/24/counting-the-cost/) - In continuing our series on things that don’t always get talked about in the church or Christian homes when it comes to salvation, today we will discuss what it means to count the cost when it pertains to following Jesus. There are many times the salvation message is given, or people are talking about having
- [Sin - Bringing It Out of the Background.](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2022/11/22/sin-bringing-it-out-of-the-background/) - As we begin to talk about salvation and the different parts of this topic, we will start with a discussion about sin. Sin is one of those uncomfortable topics, but it is a critical one that needs to be talked about well and accurately. “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of
- [Salvation - The Whole Story Part 1](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2022/11/16/salvation-the-whole-story-part-1/) - As we dig into topics that are not always talked about or have aspects that are not always discussed in our homes or churches, Salvation seemed to be a good place to start. For those who have accepted Jesus as our Lord and Savior, most of us have a special moment where that initial relationship
- [Taboo Topics](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2022/11/01/taboo-topics/) - When I was growing up, some topics seemed to be closed off or had short answers to go with them. Any issues about our bodies developing or sex. Showing personal feelings seemed to be seen as weakness, and other topics would spark anger or condemnation. Also, matters about relationships and conflict and dealing with struggles
- [Perfect Love Cast Out Fear](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2022/10/05/perfect-love-cast-out-fear/) - Recently my husband and I took a trip to Niagra Falls for a quick getaway. One night we had gone out to dinner and headed to the park where they would have fireworks over the Falls. As we walked through the park in the dark, surrounded by over a hundred people I didn't know, in
- [God's Purposeful Heart](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2022/09/16/gods-purposeful-heart/) - Recently, I have had several conversations with people of all ages that have ended with a realization that God has told us things with purpose. He has a reason for saying what He says to us. As I was in Bible Study this week, we dove into some interesting scriptures that brought me back to
- [The New Thing God Is Doing In A New Year](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2022/08/23/the-new-thing-god-is-doing-in-a-new-year-2/) - Today is my birthday, and I am finding myself reflecting. This year has been an interesting year. A year that has been filled with ups and downs, lots of wrestling with the Lord, and powerful breakthroughs. I have shared some of them in my writing along the way, and today will be another one of
- [Personally Speaking](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2022/08/02/personally-speaking/) - The time was getting closer for my youngest son David and His wife Taylor to visit us for the first time since they had married. My heart was excited, and the preparations were underway. It had been about five months since they married and seven months since David moved away to Texas. This was another
- [Shaded Perspective](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2022/07/14/shaded-perspective/) - I love this time of year. Around late Spring we usually have some bunnies who get comfortable in our yard. I adore them. For some reason, I get attached to them very quickly and deeply. They become friends. They hang out with me a little bit each day, and my yard becomes home base for
- [Breaking The Box](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2022/07/06/breaking-the-box/) - Yesterday I went with a friend to a unique store. We arrived early and got in line with many others who were waiting. The man and woman in front of us began chatting, and we had a wonderful conversation with them. It was such a sweet gift in the day. I love it when I
- [Shifting Mindset](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2022/06/29/shifting-mindset/) - I had gone up to the Guest room to do some reading. I enjoy sitting in the cozy off-white chair that sits in the corner of that room. As I sat down, I looked across the room, where one of my attempted Pinterest projects sat on the side table. There sat my brown-colored glass bottle
- [Love - The Greatest of All](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2022/06/20/love-the-greatest-of-all/) - When I was a child, I used to speak like a child, think like a child, reason like a child; when I became a man, I did away with childish things. For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face; now I know in part, but then I will know fully
- [Love - Unfailing and Perfect](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2022/06/15/love-unfailing-and-perfect/) - Love never fails; but if there are gifts of prophecy, they will be done away; if there are tongues, they will cease; if there is knowledge, it will be done away. For we know in part and we prophesy in part; but when the perfect comes, the partial will be done away. 1 Corinthians 13:8-10
- [Love - In all things](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2022/06/07/love-in-all-things/) - bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. 1 Corinthians 13:7 (NSAB) It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres 1 Corinthians 13:7 (NIV) I struggle with consistency. Once I get disciplined in something, I am great, but the battle to keep it consistently going all the time is difficult
- [Love - Rejoicing In The Truth](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2022/06/01/love-rejoicing-in-the-truth/) - Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. 1 Corinthians 13:6 (NIV) I have been enjoying learning new things about God's word. One of them is understanding where the words I am reading come from. I have added some new resources to the Bible Study App I use, and I looked up
- [Love - It's Not Just About Me](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2022/05/25/love-its-not-just-about-me/) - It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful. 1 Corinthians 13:5b(ESV) I really enjoy spending time with the young children at church. Many of them have a special place in my heart, and I enjoy watching them play together. Since I have had my cochlear implants, I can hear
- [Love - Going Deeper](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2022/05/18/love-going-deeper/) - It is true what they say about marriage. You are always learning new things about your spouse. We are continually growing and learning new things about each other. My husband and I have been married for almost 25 years. We know each other pretty well. Now and again, though, we will surprise each other with
- [Love: The Motivating Factor](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2022/05/11/love-the-motivating-factor/) - If I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but do not have love, I have become a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy, and know all mysteries and all knowledge; and if I have all faith, so as to remove mountains, but do not have
- [Love: The Most Misused Word In The World](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2022/05/04/love-the-most-misused-word-in-the-world/) - My husband and I took a trip to Gatlinburg, TN a couple of years ago. We left for a needed trip, in between two very hard seasons in our life. We left from Western, N.Y, and drove down to Tennessee from there, crossing several states. I enjoyed this ride enormously. We drove through some of
- [Taking A Break with Purpose](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2022/04/27/taking-a-break-with-purpose/) - In this writing journey, I have learned about different writing techniques and the process of writing a book and getting it published. I have learned how to make graphics and build a platform. I have connected with many incredible people along the way and I am enjoying the journey. I think sometimes it is easy
- [Describing Jesus](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2022/04/06/describing-jesus/) - My husband kissed me and walked out the door to walk to his truck and begin his workday. As always, I would stand there and watch him as he got in his truck and drove away. I looked out into the driveway, and my car was sitting there, covered in dew that glistened as the
- [A Little Help From A Friend](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2021/12/08/a-little-help-from-a-friend/) - The gifts God has blessed me with do not include making crafts. While I enjoy and appreciate my gifted friends that way, I do not enjoy making crafts. So when the announcement for the Women's Ministry Craft Night came up, I had already made up my mind that I was not going because that was
- [Thankful Living](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2021/11/17/thankful-living/) - ‘Tis the Season! Every mid-late October, the emails and social media graphics start flooding in about the 30 days of Thankfulness and ideas and suggestions about how we can be thankful. Many of these things can be great tools and resources, and they can be fruitful, but it seems as though every November, we snap
- [What Is Your Mind Set On](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2021/11/10/what-is-your-mind-set-on/) - Back in my Middle School years, we had a day they called Field Day. One of the events was called Tug Of War. You had this long rope, and one team was on one side, and the opposing team was on the other side. You always hoped you would get on the team that had
- [How Do We Get Here](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2021/09/22/how-do-we-get-here/) - "How am I going to do all this, I thought? How can I keep the priorities I know I should and accomplish this well over the week?" This wasn't the first time this thought had run through my mind before. I was still in the season where my children were still at home, at least
- [Getting to The Roots Of It](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2021/09/08/getting-to-the-roots-of-it/) - "Why does this matter so much?" I asked God as I plopped down into the couch cushions in our hangout room. My mind had been spinning about how I was going to say no to something. Thoughts went round and round about disappointing people and wondering if they would be mad at me. Did I
- [Unclogging Our Hearts](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2021/09/01/unclogging-our-hearts/) - My husband gently approached me to ask me why the sink on my side seemed not to be draining well. He was noticing that the water was not going down the drain very quickly. My instant response was that I didn't know. I believed I hadn't noticed it before. As I walked away from the
- [Seasonal Changes](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2021/08/04/seasonal-changes/) - Here in New England we are in the Summer Season. The tourists are here, the beaches are full, and the warm sun is shining over them all. In a few months the leaves will be changing colors and falling gracefully from them. A few months after that snow will start to fall. Seasons are always
- [Getting Back To Our First Love](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2020/10/21/getting-back-to-our-first-love/) - “To the angel of the church in Ephesus write: ‘The words of him who holds the seven stars in his right hand, who walks among the seven golden lampstands. “‘I know your works, your toil and your patient endurance, and how you cannot bear with those who are evil, but have tested those who call
- [Living In Heavenly Freedom](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2021/06/30/living-in-heavenly-freedom/) - It was for freedom that Christ set us free; therefore keep standing firm and do not be subject again to a yoke of slavery. Galations 5:1 I love looking up definitions to the words and understanding what they mean. Here, Jesus has set us free; He set us at Liberty from the dominion of sin
- [Letting Go Of Our Old Self to Live In The New Creation](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2021/06/22/letting-go-of-our-old-self-to-live-in-the-new-creation/) - Knowing this, that our old self was crucified with Him, in order that our body of sin might be done away with, so that we would no longer be slaves to sin; for he who has died is freed from sin.Now if we have died with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with
- [A Clear Vision](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2021/06/09/a-clear-vision/) - Last month I was able to sneak away with my husband on a training trip. While He worked I was able to grab some undistracted time to write and pray about this ministry God has given me. I grabbed some coffee, sat down, and my mind began whirling in a million different directions. I made
- [Spiritual Gifts - Made For Unity](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2021/03/31/spiritual-gifts-made-for-unity/) - 1 Now concerning spiritual gifts, brethren, I do not want you to be unaware. 2 You know that when you were pagans, you were led astray to the mute idols, however you were led. 3 Therefore I make known to you that no one speaking by the Spirit of God says, “Jesus is accursed”; and
- [Is Your Tree Barren Or Full Of Fruit?](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2021/01/20/is-your-tree-barren-or-full-of-fruit/) - I love to go apple picking. When I look on-line to pick a place to go and do this, I look at the pictures carefully. I inspect the trees to see if they are full of fruit or branches and leaves. My eyes are always drawn in to the fullest tree. They look healthy, colorful,
- [There Is A Miracle Coming.](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2021/01/13/there-is-a-miracle-coming/) - 38 Then Jesus, deeply moved again, came to the tomb. It was a cave, and a stone lay against it. 39 Jesus said, “Take away the stone.” Martha, the sister of the dead man, said to him, “Lord, by this time there will be an odor, for he has been dead four days.” 40 Jesus
- [Jesus Weeps With Us And For Us](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2021/01/06/jesus-weeps-with-us-and-for-us/) - I was driving along one day, deep in my thoughts, listening to K-LOVE radio station. A song came on that snapped me out of that faraway place I was lost in. I strained to understand the words, but I felt it was important and had meaning for some reason. I kept hearing the words rise
- [God still Is Who He Says He Is](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2020/12/30/god-still-is-who-he-says-he-is/) - 5 Now Jesus loved Martha and her sister and Lazarus. 6 So, when he heard that Lazarus was ill, he stayed two days longer in the place where he was John 11:5-6 (ESV) When I was reading this passage it brought to mind times when my boys were younger. They would run around like crazy,
- [Why Jesus Came](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2020/12/16/why-jesus-came/) - ​1 Now a certain man was sick, Lazarus of Bethany, the village of Mary and her sister Martha. 2 It was the Mary who anointed the Lord with ointment, and wiped His feet with her hair, whose brother Lazarus was sick. 3 So the sisters sent word to Him, saying, “Lord, behold, he whom You
- [Breaking Expectations](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2020/09/16/breaking-expectations/) - Expectations. This is a word that causes mixed feelings all around. We have all had them and we have all experienced them in our relationships. Expectations can come from all sorts of places. I remember growing up I watched a lot of fairy tales. I loved the story of two people falling in love and
- [Replacing my Walls For His Wings](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2020/09/09/replacing-my-walls-for-his-wings/) - During this time of being home more and having more time to reflect and be with the Lord, God answered my prayer and examined my heart for me. He revealed my lack of full surrender and trust in Him. He showed me my profoundly wounded and broken heart. Despite all the work we had already
- [A Time To Pray and Fast](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2020/10/07/a-time-to-pray-and-fast/) - God has been prodding my heart to take some time off of social media and to make some extra time to pray and fast for situations and people in my life, and to be in His word to hear from Him. This will mean pulling back some and being home more. This will mean scheduling
- [The Beautiful Gift of Preparation](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2020/10/14/the-beautiful-gift-of-preparation/) - One of my favorite seasons in life is when I worked in the Public School System as a Paraprofessional, which is a fancy word for Teacher's Assistant. I worked with children who had special needs. I got to work alongside them and help guide them in their work and in their day. One of the
- [In My Father's House](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2020/11/18/in-my-fathers-house/) - 11 And He said, “A man had two sons. 12 The younger of them said to his father, ‘Father, give me the share of the estate that falls to me.’ So he divided his wealth between them. 13 And not many days later, the younger son gathered everything together and went on a journey into
- [Heart Journey by Lori Ann Wood](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2020/09/30/heart-journey-by-lori-ann-wood/) - My heart journey began in November 2015: the physical part on November 27, the spiritual part, three weeks earlier. On November 6, around 10:00pm on a stretch of a highway a few hours from home, I prayed specifically for God to make my life matter in His Kingdom and pledged I would do anything to
- [Breaking The walls Down](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2020/08/26/breaking-the-walls-down/) - I remember playing with legos with my boys as they were growing up. My son, Kyle, especially. He loved building with legos, and he would make the coolest buildings and structures. We would build things together, and sometimes after creating them, we would make them fall down. Some of mine would be tall and tight
- [Changing the Generational Patterns](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2020/08/19/changing-the-generational-patterns/) - I was in God's Word this morning, and I came to some scripture in the Psalms that confirmed firmly planted truths that God had been speaking to my heart lately. 1 Listen, O my people, to my instruction;Incline your ears to the words of my mouth.2 I will open my mouth in a parable;I will
- [The Exclusive, Authentic resting Place](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2020/08/05/the-exclusive-authentic-resting-place/) - I had spent the day in at least five different stores. It was hours of putting the mask on and off and explaining my deafness and cochlear implants for what felt like a million times. I was exhausted. I wanted to go home, unplug my ears and rest, but it wasn’t possible. I longed for
- [Do We want To Be well?](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2020/06/24/do-we-want-to-be-well/) - 1 After these things there was a feast of the Jews, and Jesus went up to Jerusalem.2 Now there is in Jerusalem by the sheep gate a pool, which is called in Hebrew Bethesda, having five porticoes. 3 In these lay a multitude of those who were sick, blind, lame, and withered, [waiting for the
- [What Can I Do?](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2020/06/17/what-can-i-do/) - This World has taken a chaotic turn over the last few months. It seems to get worse continuously. I have brought this question to God in prayer. I have watched the social media posts, the news people, the people in the stores. Everyone has an opinion, and everyone has something to say. However, I don't
- [The Need to Heal The Past](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2020/06/10/the-need-to-heal-the-past/) - I was having a conversation with a loved one. Words were spoken that triggered wounded places in my heart, and out of my mouth, spews the instant reaction. I spend time with my children. They speak about memories that remind me of my failure as a mom, guilt overruns my heart, and I go within,
- [A Different Kind of Team](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2020/06/04/a-different-kind-of-team/) - As Jesus went on from there, He saw a man called Matthew, sitting in the tax collector’s booth; and He *said to him, “Follow Me!” And he got up and followed Him. Then it happened that as Jesus was reclining at the table in the house, behold, many tax collectors and sinners came and were
- [Spiritual Sweatpants](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2020/05/20/spiritual-sweatpants/) - Before Covid -19 hit, I was eating well, beginning my exercise routine again, and had my metabolism in a good place. I felt healthy, and I was living with healthy habits. When the lockdown began, and we knew we weren’t going anywhere for a while, the stretch pants season began. There wasn’t any reason to
- [Full Exposure](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2020/04/08/full-exposure/) - A couple of weeks ago, I heard a friend joking around, saying, “By the time we are done with this, we will know everyone’s true hair color.” I laughed for a minute and then began to ponder the truth hidden in that statement. I have seen posts all over social media about making hair stylists
- [Being Transformed In The Messy](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2020/03/25/being-transformed-in-the-messy/) - One of the perks of having to fully renovation was a brand new kitchen. This kitchen is a little bigger and an enormous amount more enjoyable to work in. I have been practicing jumping out of my comfort zone, escaping my safe places and letting go of my fear of failure. I have exercised this
- [Being Made Brand New](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2020/03/18/being-made-brand-new/) - Those new glass shower doors were shining bright in the sunlight as I worked at cleaning up the smudges and dirt marks on them. Then I came to a place where there is a spot that wouldn't come off. Frustration built up, and I started complaining to God about how brand new things should not
- [More Than A Check List](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2020/03/11/more-than-a-check-list/) - I was remembering back to when I was a young mom and a very young follower of Jesus. I wanted so much to do what I was supposed to do for the Lord. I would have my checklist out each day. Not everything on the list got checked everyday but that was my heart anyway.
- [Perfection, The Misconception](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2020/02/26/perfection-the-misconception/) - Perfection. Women know this word better than anyone. It haunts us every day. I know this word has been a prison for me over the years. Voices all around us tell us what perfect should be. Our homes should look like museums and magazine pictures. Pictures plastered everywhere, and television tells us what perfect beauty
- [Community-We Need Each Other](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2020/02/19/community-we-need-each-other/) - It was about eight years ago when I began thinking about what I would be doing after my children graduated and began moving on with their lives. I had always loved to write, and as I prayed for God’s direction and purpose for me, that is one place He led me to. Soon after, I
- [my LightHouse](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2020/01/15/my-lighthouse/) - I live in New England. I grew up here, so sometimes I don't always appreciate the special things we have in this area the way I should. One of the things people love about New England is our lighthouses. We love to visit them, explore them, and climb in them. We don't always think about
- [To Be Made Known](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2020/02/12/to-be-made-known/) - Last month I went a Women's breakfast at my church. I walked in and sat down. My eyes surveyed the room, taking notice of who was there. Many people I knew, but there were a couple new faces. I had not seen them before and I didn't know their name or who they were. When
- [Be Still and Know God](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2020/02/06/be-still-and-know-god/) - My mind was going a million miles an hour. Meal plans and grocery lists, texts coming in that needed responses, places I needed to be, and writing I wanted to get done. My head spun around like a top at full-speed. I heard God whisper, "come sit with me for a few minutes and just
- [When It Takes more Than a Quick-Fix](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2020/01/29/when-it-takes-more-than-a-quick-fix/) - I was sitting on the couch, taking a few minutes to unwind when out of the side of my eyes, I saw a flash. I looked over at the digital picture frame sitting on the table. Pictures of my children when they were young kept sweeping by, and tears began to flow down my face.
- [What Is The Purpose?](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2020/01/22/what-is-the-purpose/) - Last week we talked about being a lighthouse. Jesus is the light within us and as we spend time with Him and grow in our relationship with Him, our light shines brighter. As we live our lives, that light shines in everything we do and all that we are. It shines in our relationships and
- [I Trust God But...](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2019/09/11/i-trust-god-but/) - Trust seems to be a theme in my life lately. Everyday in my devotional, writing, or posts I am following, scripture shows up about trust. I went in to TJ Maxx the other day. I can't seem to remember why I went in there. Sometimes I go in just for a mental break in the
- [Are You Adding Salt to the Dish God has Given you?](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2020/01/08/are-you-adding-salt-to-the-dish-god-has-given-you/) - “You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt has become tasteless, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled under foot by men." Matthew 5:13 When I cook, I usually flavor things well, but every now and then, my husband will ask
- [A Look Back before Looking Ahead](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2020/01/01/a-look-back-before-looking-ahead/) - In the past few weeks, I have spent a considerable amount of time praying about the New Year. I have been seeking God about what it looks like, in my writing, my hearing journey, in ministry, and in life. He has been directing me to take a look back, before looking ahead fully. Eight years
- [He Is Enough](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2019/12/11/he-is-enough/) - My oldest son, Kyle was coming down to visit. I decided to make chili using a family recipe he likes. I went into the freezer and realized I did not have enough ground beef for the recipe. My eyes surveyed the freezer and I noticed I had enough ground turkey, but I knew if I used
- [Shifting My View](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2019/12/04/shifting-my-view/) - As I began reading Matthew 5 my heart was prayed over and ready to receive what God had for me. My eyes began following the black typed words across the page until I came to the third verse. I began reading the words, "Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the Kingdom of
- [Where Jesus Meets Us](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2019/11/20/where-jesus-meets-us/) - This season has caused me to think about Jesus' disciples and their journey with Jesus. This morning I found myself reading about Thomas. He is famously known as "doubting Thomas." I was drawn to Thomas because I have been doubting some things lately. I have been doubting God's promises. I have been doubting God's heart
- [Jesus Can Calm Our Storms](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2019/11/27/jesus-can-calm-our-storms/) - "On that day, when evening had come, he said to them, “Let us go across to the other side.” And leaving the crowd, they took him with them in the boat, just as he was. And other boats were with him. And a great windstorm arose, and the waves were breaking into the boat so
- [Letting God Fight Our Battles](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2019/11/13/letting-god-fight-our-battles/) - I have heard several new songs over the past couple of weeks. Each one of them had a similar message in them. God has been and is continuing to fight our battles. There have been heavy battles raging within me and around me. People I love are fighting some severely trying things. There are days
- [You Are Not Forgotten](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2019/11/06/you-are-not-forgotten/) - We have a Sunday service at church. We worship together and hear God's Word. We leave and go home without much of a thought to all the behind the scenes work people did to accomplish it. We go in the bathrooms and have a million conversations in the ladies room, without a thought to all
- [The Later List](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2019/10/30/the-later-list/) - My husband and I started a house project that was supposed to consist of dealing with one part of the house. It turned into a whole house renovation. This obviously affected the budget and cost. We had things that we wanted to do but as other things became exposed we had to make what we
- [The Freeing Power of Saying "No"](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2019/10/23/the-freeing-power-of-saying-no/) - I was overwhelmed, burnt out, struggling with depression through a difficult season of grief, and many unexpected events surrounding it all. Before that, I had been a pursuer of people, relationships, and most importantly Jesus. I was actively involved in ministry and leading small groups. I was reliable, responsible, and pursued those around me. I
- [Freedom Friends](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2019/10/16/freedom-friends/) - We had a wedding coming up and I knew some friends would want me to dance. I reached out to my audiologist to ask for tips. I have made incredible progress hearing with my cochlear implants and I have worked hard, but dancing at a wedding has been a mountain I have not been able
- [Letting God Be My Refuge, My Safe Place.](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2019/10/09/letting-god-be-my-refuge-my-safe-place/) - When I am scared, hurt, lonely, or just plain tired, my husband's arms are my favorite place to be. When he wraps his strong, comforting arms around me, I feel safe and protected. He doesn't even have to speak, I know his heart is telling me that he has me. This world is a scary
- [Trusting In The Midst Of Temptation](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2019/10/02/trusting-in-the-midst-of-temptation/) - Temptation is something we face often, it is also something Jesus faced. Then Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. And after He had fasted forty days and forty nights, He then became hungry. And the tempter came and said to Him, “If You are the
- [The Heart Of A Friend](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2019/09/25/the-heart-of-a-friend/) - I am a natural pursuer of people. So when I entered a season where I didn't have much energy or time to pursue, it caused me to bring my relationships to the Lord and evaluate them. It has opened up a search about friendship. What does love look like in those relationships? I looked up
- [Hearing With God's Ears](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2019/09/18/hearing-with-gods-ears/) - September is Deaf Awareness month. One of my passions is to help others understand disabilities and the ones who live with them and who loves those who do. I didn't start out deaf but I was not very old when people began noticing that I was not responding to things I should and not hearing
- [Leaving The Familiar](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2019/01/17/leaving-the-familiar/) - "I don't want to stay in my comfort zone." I said as I was walking with a loved one yesterday. When I heard myself say this statement, my flesh froze. I meant what I said but there was fear starting to bubble up from within. Let's admit it, we like our comfort zones. I started
- [A Cliffhanger Decision](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2019/01/24/a-cliffhanger-decision/) - It was one of those days. I had heavy things weighing on my heart and mind. My heart felt like a tangled mess. My mind was going a mile a minute, just trying to figure out a plan of action. So I paused to just sit still for a moment. God gave me a picture
- [Whose Glasses Do You Have On?](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2019/02/04/whose-glasses-do-you-have-on/) - There are days when I get up with an attitude. I fight the temptation to throw the covers over myself, and hide out for the day. My body tells me it is tired. My mind says to think about myself for once. I look over at my husband as he gets out of bed to
- [Learning From Abram](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2019/02/06/learning-from-abram/) - I have been studying about Abram the last few weeks. After, I wrote my last blog post, I realized I had been reading this with my glasses on, instead of God's. I have realized that I can sometimes sound like a pharisee. Can I just say that is NOT my favorite sound! I was talking
- [The Power Of Praise](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2019/02/08/the-power-of-praise/) - I was sitting in bible study with a group of beautiful women of God. We began talking about how grumbling and complaining seems to be our first reaction in life. I don't know about you, but I would like to say I am a pretty positive person. I can't possibly have this issue. Right?! The
- [The Importance Of Staying Rooted](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2019/02/11/the-importance-of-staying-rooted/) - This week I was preparing to meet some special young ladies. As I was in God's Word that morning I ended up in Psalms. "How blessed is the man who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way of sinners, take or sit in the company of mockers, but whose
- [Cultivating The Beautiful Heart](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2019/03/05/cultivating-the-beautiful-heart/) - I remember when I was growing up, there were these weeds and plants that would continually grow up in the yard, every year. They were a huge nuisance. Not just because they would grow up every year but also because I would be the one going out to help my dad cut these things. I
- [Letting Go of My Will, For God's Will to be Done.](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2019/04/12/letting-go-of-my-will-for-gods-will-to-be-done/) - I hate detours. There has been an intense amount of road work being done around our area. The other day I got in my car and began driving to my destination. I knew where I was going. I chose the way I wanted to go to get there and I began driving. After a while,
- [Where Is Your Hope?](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2019/07/17/where-is-your-hope/) - My heart has been saddened to hear about another precious life, surrendering to hopelessness. As I live my days on this earth, I become more aware of the despair that lingers around, like a dark cloud on a stormy day. It is somber and dreary, and pulls you into a place within that is oppressive
- [What If...?](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2019/07/31/what-if/) - I have been slowly reading through the book of Matthew for the past month. The bible is an amazing gift. Every time I explore it, Jesus becomes more alive to me and I understand more about the passionate heart of my Heavenly Father. Mary came to Joseph and told him she was pregnant. Obviously, this
- [Loving the Sinner, and Hating the Sin.](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2019/08/07/loving-the-sinner-and-hating-the-sin/) - One of my husband's famous quotes is, "We are people of extremes." If we really think about it, this is true. I think back to when I was younger. I trusted everyone. When the trust was broken, then I trusted no one, and it has taken me years to find my way to the middle,
- [Come As You Are, Leave Changed](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2019/08/21/come-as-you-are-leave-changed/) - I love the scriptures about Zaccheus! I still have the song we used to sing about him, floating around in my head. I hear his name and the words come back to me like yesterday. He entered Jericho and was passing through. And there was a man called by the name of Zaccheus; he was
- [Made Like New](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2019/08/28/made-like-new/) - It has been a season of cleaning out and I am always making bags for the local Johnnycake Center. This place is a thrift store that also has other services to help the Community. This place is one that is special to me. They were a place where I could find clothes for my kids
- [Learning A New Rhythm of Life](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2019/09/04/learning-a-new-rhythm-of-life/) - I love music! It is one of my favorite hearing moments. One of my new goals in hearing therapy is to hear the rhythm. When I hear a song, I have to take time to listen. Depending on the sounds and the instruments used, it can take me awhile to find it. Every now and
- [Special People, Unique World](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2020/01/04/speaking/) - Come see the stories of my friends!
- [Welcome to My Home](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2020/01/04/welcome-to-my-home/) - Thank you for stopping by. I am Desiree Taylor. I am a wife, mom, friend, mentor, and writer. I love a good cup of coffee, comfy blanket, and engaging conversation. I am deaf with bilateral cochlear implants and a passion to help others understand what it is like to live with a disability. I have a big love for Jesus and I enjoy sharing with others how He has changed my life, from the inside out.
- [Whatever It Takes](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2019/07/24/whatever-it-takes/) - Living with my hearing loss has been a challenge. There are always obstacles and hurdles to walk through. If I want to make progress, I have to be willing to do the work. With my cochlear implants, I go to hearing therapy. Between the travel time and the hour I am there, it is about
- [Speaking Page](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2019/01/07/speaking-page/) - I am sure some of you noticed I have a page set apart for Speaking. If you look at it even closer you will notice there is not much information on it. Just a basic contact form. This page is a work in progress for me, just like many things in my life. Recently, I
- [Olivia's Testimony](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2019/01/04/olivias-testimony/) - I have heard many stories of how people’s lives have been changed after coming to Christ and I can absolutely say that I have experienced the same transformation. My life has been forever changed. He has shown me so much grace, hope, and love throughout my life. After coming to Him, I look at life
- [Special People, Unique World](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2019/01/02/special-people-unique-world/) - I am here today to share with you another piece of my heart. When Kayla and I worked on this website together, I knew that I had to have a place to share stories about people with disabilities and their families who love them. Today, I will share parts of my story, and you will
- [The Power Of Our Testimonies](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2018/12/15/the-power-of-our-testimonies/) - I love Baptism Sundays at our church. My favorite part is hearing the testimonies of the people being baptized. As I listen to each on, there is a theme. They may all be different and unique in many ways, but there is one common denominator in all of them. The name of Jesus! When I
- [The Power Of Praying For One Another](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2018/12/11/the-power-of-praying-for-one-another/) - One of my greatest desires for this website is for us to be a community. I love prayer. I love praying for others. God has blessed us with the privilege to be able to go to Him anytime we want or need to. It is one we take for granted far too often. I treasure
- [What Will You Choose?](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2018/12/07/what-will-you-choose/) - This morning I just wanted to get a quick shower before I left for my day. Half way through my shower the water starts turning cold. There really is no need for this to be happening. There should be enough hot water for the whole house so I was trying to figure out what the
- [The Family Of God Shares Life Together](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2018/11/27/the-family-of-god-shares-life-together/) - My beautiful friend Audrey has been sharing her experiences through her battle with cancer, and now she is sharing her journey as she prepares to be with Jesus. There is another sweet friend who lost her son unexpectantly last month. Still another friend who had a miscarriage. My mother-in-law lost her husband and best friend.
- [Many Buildings, One Body.](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2018/11/16/many-buildings-one-body/) - I have always been a part of small groups at our church. Some seasons as a leader and some as a participant. This season has brought many no's for me. My heart sank when I knew I could not join in this small group season. I love the times with other believers, studying God's Word,
- [Humble Myself...Really?](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2018/11/12/humble-myself-really/) - I don't know about you, but I hate when people misunderstand me as a person. I do not like it when people think wrongly about me. It causes me to rise up and defend who I am. I am also a justice girl. When things don't seem right or fair, I want to get right
- [My Faithful Friend](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2018/11/07/my-faithful-friend/) - Do you have that friend who knows exactly what you need when you need it.? They may know what is going on in your life but they may not. Sometimes it is a word in season, a text to let you know you are thought of, a gift, or something as simple as a hug
- [The Old is Gone, New Things are Coming.](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2018/11/05/the-old-is-gone-new-things-are-coming/) - Recently, we began to do construction on our home. We intended to embark on remodeling the in-law apartment downstairs. As we started the construction, one thing led to another, and before we knew it, we found ourselves having to do a full home remodel, inside and out. It is an older home, so some things
- [Pride Comes Before The Fall](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2018/11/02/pride-comes-before-the-fall/) - The Word of God is full of truth. Some truth we love and seems pretty easy to go with, and other times the truth is hard. "For the word of God is living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword, and piercing as far as the division of soul and spirit, of both joints
- [Every Seed Matters](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2018/10/30/every-seed-matters/) - Last Saturday was a special day for me. It wasn't special because it was my Birthday or a Holiday, but it was special because God spoke to me in one of His unique and personal ways. We have been working on our house. It began as a one section project and has turned into a
- [Surrendered Obedience](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2018/09/19/surrendered-obedience/) - Have you ever found yourself asking God what He was thinking, because you are in place in life you never expected or wanted to be? How do you live in those places? I am immensely excited about being back in the Word, studying our friend Noah. As we have talked about, Noah has found himself
- [We Interrupt Our Regularly Scheduled Blogging, To Bring You Life](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2018/08/07/we-interrupt-our-regularly-scheduled-blogging-to-bring-you-life/) - Have you ever gotten to a place in life where you finally seem to have found your groove? You are seeking God, following along and all of a sudden life takes a sharp turn. It reminds me of those times when I was younger watching television. I would be watching a program and really into
- [God's Promise](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2018/06/29/gods-promise/) - Have you ever made a promise to someone or had a loved one make a promise to you? Has someone broken a promise to you or have you broken a promise to someone else? I have made promises and with many good heartfelt intentions meant to do what I say, but I have often fallen
- [God's Loving Preparation](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2018/06/21/gods-loving-preparation/) - There have been many moments in my life where God has prepared me for a season that was coming. For a long time, I wasn't sure if I liked this or not. My heart would be disturbed and unsettled in the midst of some of the unknown. However, when the time came, I was prepared
- [Standing Out](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2018/06/11/standing-out/) - I remember being a young girl in school. I was always looking at the other girls trying to figure out how to be more like them. I wanted to fit in. I wanted to be liked. I mean...don't we all? I would watch how they would act and how they dressed. I would watch how
- [Grieving The Heart Of God](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2018/06/08/grieving-the-heart-of-god/) - It wasn't until I became a parent that I began to understand God more as a Heavenly Father. There have been times through these parenting years that I have cried out to God to know what to do as a parent and to shed tears of grief because of fear and sadness about things that
- [The Cost Of Compromise](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2018/06/01/the-cost-of-compromise/) - I love walking alongside others on this journey with God. I remember back to pivotal moments where someone's prayer or word of advice kept me going in the right direction or caused me to think twice about my thoughts or actions. There are other moments when I look back and wish I had listened to
- [Walking With God](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2018/05/18/walking-with-god/) - I have been walking more lately. I have a friend and neighbor I walk with when we are able to hook up. We always walk next to each other the whole way. All through the walk we are talking or listening. There is a constant interaction while we walk. Walking together is more than just
- [A Marriage Made In The Garden](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2018/02/16/eve-the-first-wife/) - Can you imagine being in the Garden of Eden? Everything was fresh, plentiful and full of all things needed for life. Except for maybe one thing. "Then the Lord God said, "It is not good for man to be alone; I will make him a helper suitable for him." Out of the ground the Lord
- [The Heart Of The Matter](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2018/05/03/the-heart-of-the-matter/) - Have you ever been in a situation where you are serving your husband, child, parent, or friend and even though you really desire to be loving them this way, you find your mind wandering to thoughts about wanting to be doing something else right then, or wishing someone else would be doing the task? Do
- [The Heart Of Our Heavenly Father](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2018/05/07/the-heart-of-our-heavenly-father/) - You know those times during the month, where we as women tend to struggle with our emotions a little more? It was one of those times for me and a situation came up. It was one I usually handle carefully with a prayer on a normal day, but this day some emotions were stirring high. I
- [Generational Effects](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2018/05/12/generational-effects/) - I have been marinating over this blog post over the last week. This is the final blog post to come out of Genesis 4. As I prayed this morning, I sensed the Holy Spirit birthing this post. After reading about Cain and Abel, I often wondered how Eve was feeling. I can imagine at this
- [Sin and Consequences](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2018/05/09/sin-and-consequences/) - I remember when my boys were young. I would catch them in a moment where they were faced with a decision. They had to decide if they would choose to be obedient to what we had told them to do or give in to the temptation to disobey. Just like with us, there were moments
- [Live Like An Influence You Want In Your Life](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2018/04/16/live-like-an-influence-you-want-in-your-life/) - This Spring, I have been leading a women's small group through our church. One of my sweet friends opened her home to us and we have been growing in the Lord together. We have been reading a book called, "She's Still There" by Chrystal Evans Hurst. It has been such a blessing. There was a
- [The Blame Game](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2018/04/03/the-blame-game/) - Let's admit it, we can all be good at playing the blame game. Especially when we sense some painful consequences coming upon us, as quick as lightening. We panic and point to the nearest victim or circumstance we can shake our finger at. Apparently, this bad habit began in the garden. 11 And He said, “Who
- [Walking In The Garden](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2018/03/28/walking-in-the-garden/) - I grew up going to an older Baptist church. We sang hymns out of the brown hymnal which had the oldest songs available. I don't know if it is because I am deaf or I tend to think and feel deeply but I always loved knowing the words. I don't like singing or dancing to
- [Called Out](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2018/03/26/called-out/) - I remember the good old days of potty training. During this season of motherhood, whenever I would be missing a child, I knew where I would most likely be able to find them. A poopy diaper was in the making behind one of the pieces of furniture in the living room. I would call their
- [The Great Deception](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2018/03/21/the-great-deception/) - Have you ever heard a sales pitch that makes junk look like diamonds? You order this item. You find yourself waiting by the door and staring out the window in anxious, anticipation of its arrival. Let's read about this in Genesis 3 today. Genesis 3:1A (NASB) - "Now the serpent was more crafty than any
- [In The Beginning](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2018/02/12/in-the-beginning/) - God has grabbed my hand and brought me back to a time where nothing and no one existed. To a place where God spoke the world into being and breathed life into the first man. As my eyes follow the words on the pages of the Bible, I am in awe all over again at
- [Relationship](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2018/01/31/relationship/) - I was never one for getting a word for the New Year. However, a few years ago God began putting specific words on my heart for the upcoming year. It was an awe-inspiring experience to start at the beginning of the year with a word and to watch that word come alive with new meaning
- [My Strength In My Weakness](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2017/11/29/my-strength-in-my-weakness/) - Do you ever have those times when you see a particular scripture, over and over again in different places? For me this scripture has been in a youth lesson one night, several devotionals, blog posts and sermons, as well at a conference just over the last couple of months. When this happens and the Lord
- [Hold On With Hope](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2017/11/16/hold-on-with-hope/) - Recently, I have begun taking piano lessons and learning to sing. This may not seem like earth-shattering news to anyone but it is for me. I am deaf with bilateral cochlear implants. My hearing loss has been progressive. I started out with one hearing aid, then two and when I was thirty one years old
- [Learning To Love The Woman In The Mirror](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2017/11/11/learning-to-love-the-woman-in-the-mirror/) - Part of the adventure in this new season is discovering who I am. I have spent much of my life trying to be who other people are or who I think someone else wants me to be. This has caused me to come to a place where I really don't know who I am in
- [The Heart Of A Renewed Creation](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2017/11/10/the-heart-of-a-renewed-creation/) - "I waited patiently for the Lord; and He inclined to me and heard my cry. He brought me up out of the pit of destruction, out of the miry clay. And He set my feet upon a rock making my footsteps firm. He put a new song in my mouth, a song of praise to
- [Unchartered territory](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2017/11/08/unchartered-territory/) - "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous! Do not tremble or be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go." Joshua 1:9 (NASB) Imagine someone you love puts a blindfold over your eyes. They tell you they are taking you somewhere. You can't see where, but for now you
- [Renae's Testimony](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2016/06/02/renaes-testimony/) - I grew up in a catholic home with both of my parents. I was the oldest of two siblings. As a child, I remember having a lot of fun. We went camping and hiking and rode bikes. My dad was like a big kid. On weekends my mom worked and dad took us out on
- [Andrea's Journey Back To God](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2016/07/21/andreas-journey-back-to-god/) - This is not my salvation story, but rather how I turned back to the Lord. I had been a Christian for many years, but I did not have that peace that Jesus talked about. I had thought that I had understood the basics of scripture, but I was to find out later that I just
- [Be Still And Know That He Is God. When Was The Last Time You Sat At Jesus' Feet?](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2014/11/28/be-still-and-know-that-i-am-god-when-was-the-last-time-you-sat-at-jesus-feet/) - I don't know about you but sitting is a difficult task for me. I am a very antsy person. I am always moving my hands while I talk. if I am sitting and listening for a long time, I have to put my hands under my legs to keep myself concentrating on listening longer. This
- [Distractions. What Causes You to Wander?](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2015/01/07/distractions-what-causes-you-to-wander-2/) - I am what you would call a natural wanderer. I start cleaning in one room, see something in another room that needs to be dealt with and I make my way into there, drifting away from the task that I hadn't finished yet. I start talking about something, a thought pops in my mind and
- [Being Used By God Has Nothing To Do With Age.](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2015/01/09/being-a-mature-christian-has-nothing-to-do-with-age/) - How many times have you gone into relationships with younger women with the idea that you are there to mentor them and they are there to learn from you? I have always had a heart for younger girls. If you read my testimony you will understand more of where that passion and desire comes from.
- ["What Are You Looking At?](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2015/01/15/what-are-you-looking-at/) - When you look at others what do you see? I worked in the Public School System for close to ten years. I was a Paraprofessional which is a fancy word for Teacher's Assistant. I mainly worked with children with special needs. Since I am a special needs person, I really was drawn to helping these
- [What Would I Do In Their Place?](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2015/02/25/what-would-i-do-in-their-place/) - This past Sunday my Pastor, David LaChance honored the twenty one Martyrs that gave their life in the name of Jesus Christ. As I watched the video of these men being brought onto the beach, I looked at each one. I was amazed as I looked at their faces and in their eyes. I truly
- [Saying Goodbye To An Old Season And Hello To A New One.](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2015/05/01/saying-goodbye-to-an-old-season-and-hello-to-a-new-one/) - My family and I live in New England. This Winter has been incredibly cold, snowy, and LONG! It was a Season that felt never ending. I began to feel like Noah, looking out over the water, waiting for that dove to come back with a sign of life I had noticed that many of the
- [Building Up My Boys](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2015/05/10/building-up-my-boys/) - It seems like yesterday my boys were small and running around. These boys are now fifteen and twenty years old. I used to hate it when the older moms would say, "It goes by so fast." I have to confess I didn't believe that day when every day seemed to last forever. I have found
- [Little Acts Of Love](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2015/05/13/little-acts-of-love/) - Every morning I wake up in silence due to my deafness. I usually give myself an hour of complete silence to prepare myself for the day However, it could be easy for me to sink into that silent world so I will put my cochlear implants together and prepare for the day. I put each
- ["Walking In My Daddy's Shoes"](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2015/05/19/walking-in-my-daddys-shoes/) - My son David used to love putting his small feet into his Daddy's big shoes. I used to fight laughing as I watched him struggle to put one foot in front of the other. Sometimes he would trip and they may fall off but he would put his feet back in and get up and
- [Speaking Words Of Life Is A Lifelong Responsibility](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2015/06/01/speaking-words-of-life-is-a-lifelong-responsibility/) - One thing I have learned as a mom is that loving our children and building them up is not an eighteen year journey that hits a dead end and suddenly we can turn and walk away. Parenting has different stages and seasons. It may look different at age five than it does at age thirteen
- [Are You Finishing Well This School Year?](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2015/06/10/are-you-finishing-well-this-school-year/) - I worked in a school for several years. There were certain times of the year that the Teachers and assistants dreaded. They were right before vacation, during testing time, and the end of the year. Everyone, including the Teachers were tired and ready for a break. The students had been working hard and were getting
- [Peeling Back The Layers of Our Hearts](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2015/06/10/peeling-back-the-layers-of-our-hearts/) - Earlier this week, I was pondering some things in my heart and talking to God about them. I began thanking Him and praising Him for the healing He had been doing in my heart over the last twenty years. It is a beautiful thing to have a familiar conversation or situation arise and notice that
- [Are You Inviting Others Into Your House Or Your Home?](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2015/06/23/are-you-inviting-others-into-your-house-or-your-home/) - I remember being a young mom with small, energetic, and curious boys. We were invited to a friend's house one day. When we arrived and she opened the door, we walked into the most pristine, put together place I had ever been. To be completely honest, it looked more like a museum than a home.
- [Iron Sharpens Iron Friendships.](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2015/07/09/iron-sharpens-iron-friendships/) - This has been a Season of evaluating friendships and relationships in my life. Seeking God about what they all look like. God's Word has an incredible amount of wisdom about friendships. His word tells us what types of friendships are needed in our lives to grow. It also tells us who we need to stay
- [The Importance of Praying With Your Spouse](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2015/07/30/the-importance-of-praying-with-your-spouse/) - I love to pray! I have learned over the years the importance of developing a prayer life. We have this amazing privilege to be able to talk to God in the name of Jesus Christ! It is such a gift! One of my favorite verses is James 5:16 which says "Confess your sins to one
- [Do You Know His Voice?](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2015/09/08/do-you-know-his-voice/) - We live forty-five minutes from our church and my son has youth every Wednesday night. Since I can't go home, I make a plan to go see someone or do something on my own. I have tried to be intentional about praying and seeking God to know who or what He has planned for me
- [Where Are You Trying To Find Your Peace?](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2015/09/14/where-are-you-trying-to-find-your-peace/) - Are there days that you feel overwhelmed, anxious, exhausted, or hopeless? I have been there more days than I would like to count. So many times I would think to myself, "if I just get this done things will be better" or "when I get myself together then I will feel better." I have been
- [Peace That Is Not Of This World](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2015/11/12/peace-that-is-not-of-this-world/) - This month has been very challenging in many ways. We have seen several deaths, including one in our own family. We have been praying for those many loved ones who are struggling with cancer or other illnesses. We have witnessed marriages that have been torn in two and children who are dragged through the process
- [Taking The Journey Together, For Better Or Worse.](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2015/12/14/taking-the-journey-together-for-better-or-worse/) - Nine years ago, we were in a transitional place in life. I began to pray about what church God wanted us to be at. This was strange for me because I had been in the same church all of my life but God was shifting us. Around this time I was also praying for a
- [Aligned Priorities Lead To A Fulfilled Life.](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2016/01/06/aligned-priorities-lead-to-a-fulfilled-life/) - The last few months, I have struggled with moving forward in a few areas. As I have mentioned before this has been a constant struggle over the years. The thing is I know with Christ I can move forward into better habits that slowly grow into a new way of living. I get stuck and
- [Embracing Solitude](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2016/01/26/embracing-solitude/) - Recently I have had the unique opportunity to sneak away with my husband. During the week I had the days to myself while he had training. Hours to myself and no responsibilities. I am a girl who needs to be doing something all the time. I mean even if I am sitting the t.v. has
- [Great Expectations Lead To Destructive Disappointments](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2016/04/13/great-expectations-lead-to-destructive-disappointments/) - I remember when I was a young girl. I loved watching the fairy tales and all the romantic stories with happily ever after endings. When I became a teenager, I would sneak watching television shows such as, "The Love Boat" and soap operas trying to figure out what relationships were supposed to look like. I
- [We All Have A Story That Needs To Be Shared.](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2016/04/19/we-all-have-a-story-that-needs-to-be-shared-2/) - We all have testimonies to share. You would think that because we are women we would share our hearts better but many of us have had hurts and our hearts are wounded so we don't let anyone in. We hesitate because others may not like us after they know us but you would be surprised.
- [Breaking Out Of The Comfortable To Follow Jesus.](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2016/05/12/breaking-out-of-the-comfortable-to-follow-jesus/) - Change has never been an easy thing for me. I laugh because I have friends who change their wall color paint every three months and are constantly changing things around in their home. My walls have been the same color for probably five years now. I used to work at an elementary school as a
- [God's Faithfulness Through Trial](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2016/05/26/gods-faithfulness-through-trial/) - So the story of our family started as far back as I can remember. Growing up I did not have the greatest of parents. My real dad left when I was very little, 3 or 4. I really don't have any memories of him living in the home with us as a family. My real
- [Letting Others Into Our Messy Hearts.](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2016/06/16/letting-others-into-our-messy-hearts/) - When I was growing up no one really talked about their feelings much. At church it seemed as though everyone had on their masks that told others around them that they had it all together and they didn't need anything from anyone, including the Lord. I have always had this desire and need in me
- [The Dungeon Of Shame.](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2016/06/25/the-dungeon-of-shame/) - I received Jesus as my Lord and Savior when I was nine years old. It was such a sweet moment for me. I know I meant it and truly desired to know Him more. I was already different than other people because I was hearing impaired. Ironically I received Jesus in my life the same
- [Never Say Never](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2016/06/29/never-say-never/) - Every year our youth group goes to Soulfest which is like a Christian Woodstock experience. They go up a few days early to have some quality time together before the concerts start. They camp out in tents and take a step away from technology and life. It has always proven to be a mountaintop experience
- [What Satan Meant For Evil, God Used For Good.](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2016/06/30/what-satan-meant-for-evil-god-used-for-good/) - My personal testimony begins quite plain. I was a little girl who was raised by two extremely loving parents in a safe home and every Sunday morning I found myself in a small, white, Baptist church. I learned a lot in that tiny church. I read stories about Jesus Christ and a terrible death He
- [Feeling Like A Daisy In The Midst Of Roses](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2016/07/20/feeling-like-a-daisy-in-the-midst-of-roses/) - This morning I was washing dishes and my mind wandered to a conversation with some friends last night. This past month has been an intense battle of the mind for me. The enemy has been bringing up constant thoughts about how I am less than and inferior to everyone around me. It caused me to
- [When God Gives A Sign And You Keep Looking For A Different One.](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2016/07/21/when-god-gives-a-sign-and-you-keep-looking-for-a-different-one/) - I am a girl who loves deeply and is easily distracted. This happens in everyday life and in ministry as well. I have a heart for God and for the people He loves. I have been in some deep pits in my life and I really did not have someone there to help me up
- [Living Like A Warrior](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2016/10/27/living-like-a-warrior/) - This Summer I found myself slowly going into an abyss of darkness. Old mindsets and thoughts kept creeping up in my mind and those fiery darts from my enemy seemed to be penetrating my heart in some deep ways. I knew the enemy was fighting hard and I felt incredibly defeated. I began a bible
- [Those Who Delight In The Lord Are Blessed!](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2016/11/03/those-who-delight-in-the-lord-are-blessed/) - One of the things I love about this picture is the joy I see on my face. Today I want to share with you where that joy is coming from. In Psalm 37:4 it says; "Delight yourself in the Lord and He will give you the desires of your heart." I have always loved this
- [Embracing The Unique, Quirky, and Lovable Person I am In Christ.](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2016/11/07/embracing-the-unique-quirky-and-lovable-person-i-am-in-christ/) - My journey from the Summer has continued into the Fall. God is continuing to show me the true nature and condition of my heart. In my process of laying everything I am, everything I do, relationships, and ministry down at the Lord's feet, He revealed something to me, I want to share this with you
- [Letting Go and Living Free](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2016/11/18/letting-go-and-living-free/) - In our house we have an attic. We share this storage space with my parents. Sometimes when I go up there to put something away, I either make a pit stop and look through what is in there or I leave feeling as though I really need to clean some of this stuff out because
- [A New Year, A New Season, and A New Adventure Waiting For Us.](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2016/12/29/a-new-year-a-new-season-and-a-new-adventure-waiting-for-us/) - The other day, I was reminded of something the Lord shared with me a few years ago. I had this vision of myself in my mind, hanging at the top of the cliff by my pinky. I looked down and saw God was standing under me. He wanted me to let go of the cliff
- [May Our Eyes Be Enlightened](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2017/01/09/may-our-eyes-be-enlightened/) - I love this picture of my oldest son Kyle. He had just opened his Christmas present and realized what he had received. His face beamed with excitement and joy with anticipation of all he was going to be able to do with this gift. My son knew what he had received. He knew what he
- [Fighting Fear To The Finish Line.](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2017/01/03/fighting-fear-to-the-finish-line/) - The other day my husband and I were talking about some things we needed to deal with. In our conversation he said something that stayed in my mind like food that has gotten stuck in your teeth and you just can't get it out. He looked at me as sincerely and lovingly as possible and
- [The Love Of A Friend Who Sees You](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2017/02/02/the-love-of-a-friend-who-sees-you/) - This has been a season of transition in many ways. Transition in family, in ministry, in my body, and just in life in general. God has called me away to be still for awhile. This can be difficult for a girl who loves people and is a pursuer. It is also difficult as a woman
- [Permission To Be Where I am.](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2017/06/22/permission-to-be-where-i-am/) - Lately I feel like a wandering stranger in a foreign land. I look around and everything seems drastically different. Tears flood my eyes and fears flood my heart. This part is only the beginning. How do I let go and move forward? This is the question I ask the Lord daily these days. My flesh
- [Preserving Freedom](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2017/06/30/preserving-freedom/) - As I sit here this morning, drinking my coffee and preparing my grocery shopping list, I notice the bright red, white, and blue colors on the flyers, shouting out the big, flashy sales for the Fourth of July celebrations and picnics, the store owners anticipate people having. Being the deep thinker I am, my thoughts
- [My "Right Now" Invitation](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2017/10/19/my-right-now-invitation/) - Do you know that God is working ALL the time? He NEVER sleeps! I can not imagine not sleeping ever. Do you know He created you with such uniqueness and creativity that He purposefully places you where He wants you working with Him side by side? When you contemplate that thought, it is mind-boggling. The
- [Andrew Ballou's Testimony](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2017/09/22/andrew-ballous-testimony/) - Hi, my name is Andrew Ballou. I am a senior in high school in West Warwick, R.I. I got diagnosed with Aspergers when I was eight years old. From third grade to my freshman year of high school, I was a really shy person, like a kid in the corner, until May 14, 2014. I
- [Eryka's Testimony](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2016/07/21/erykas-testimony/) - My name is Eryka Daniels and I am sixteen years old. I have been following Christ since I was thirteen. These past three years have been great and I am looking forward to the many years to come. My walk with Christ hasn't been perfect, but I am looking forward to shaping myself in His
- [Testimony Of Grace](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2016/06/30/testimony-of-grace/) - I used to think that how I came to know Christ as my Savior was very ordinary and unremarkable. I was, as many, saved at an early age, grew up going to church, and knowing about God, and that was that; or so I thought. See, I had always thought I had a boring testimony
- [Teen Girl's Testimony; Opening The Eyes Of My Heart.](https://www.arenewedcreation.com/2016/04/25/teen-girls-testimony-opening-the-eyes-of-my-heart/) - I started going to youth group in six grade but really didn't think anything of it, it wasn't until seventh grade when I actually decided to listen and understand the messages. Towards the end of my seventh grade year I decided to get baptized. After I got baptized I thought my life was going to

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