I loved when missionaries would visit my church when I was a little girl. I knew I would see slides of foreign lands, hear stories about the people in those countries, and maybe get to hear someone speak in a different language. When the offering plate was passed, I happily gave a dollar from my piggy bank, hoping that it would bless the missionary and their work for the Lord. All this fascinated me, but deep down I felt nervous when missionaries came to visit. Was God calling me to go to a...

As any good southern girl knows, obedience to authorities is non-negotiable. I was raised to say “yes ma’am” and “yes sir” and to obey without question. Often our view of God is tied to our view of our parents. And although I had a good relationship with my parents, I often viewed God as an old man in heaven who I was instructed to obey blindly, cowering even in His presence. I believed that if I did the “right thing” and said the “right things” that God would be pleased with me. After all,...

Christmas is a time of celebration and fun! But, as women, if we are being honest, it can be a stressful time of year. Between the cooking, the gifts, the coordination of events, and decorating, our days can feel overwhelming. This year, we have been challenged to say “yes” to God. Often, saying “yes” to one more thing – especially at a busy time like Christmas – can seem like God is asking us to add more to our already-full plates. When the angel approached young Mary to tell her that she...