Finding God’s Presence In Unexpected Trials

Finding God’s Presence In Unexpected Trials Today’s guest post about finding God’s presence in unexpected trials was written by my sweet friend Tara.  I remember standing in the hallway of the ER. It was New Year’s Eve, and I was surrounded by people. I wasn’t at the family gathering I had planned on attending. Instead, our family was huddled together trying to gather comfort from each other’s presence. We heard the words there is a shadow on your husband’s brain…

When Our Faith is Tired, Tested, and Torn

When Our Faith is Tired, Tested, and Torn: A Book Review Eight years ago I sat at a table where I didn’t know anyone. It was during a writer’s conference and one of the meals included a special lunch for members of the Compel community. (Check out Compel here.) I remember sitting next to this beautiful woman with bright eyes and blond hair. Her smile stretched across her face. During that time we chatted about writing, books, and then family….

The Unexpected Invitation

The Unexpected Invitation Melinda Patrick is the author of today’s guest post. “Mom, I love you and don’t like keeping secrets from you. I need to tell you something. I have a girlfriend.” These are heart-sinking words when they come from your daughter. In the short time it takes for your mind to begin to grasp the words before you, your world comes crumbling down. Life, as you know it, has immediately changed.  Unexpected news has a way of revealing…