One of the gifts I requested and received for my birthday was a magnifying/make-up mirror. As I grow older, less trusting of my appearance, and more likely to apply copious amounts of concealer, I thought it important that I had an accurate view of my true self. However, when I saw the price tag on this fancy mirror, and I saw my reflection in way too much detail, I decided it wasn't worth that kind of money to see myself in such an unflattering light. Therefore, I returned the high-end mirror and picked up a cheap plastic one. It requires me to squint to avoid a distorted view, but it shows my flaws just the same.

Last weekend I said goodbye to the Jersey shore (what we Philadelphia-area folks call the “beach”). Despite only visiting on a couple of occasions this summer, it's always my favorite part of the year. There's something so relaxing and at the same time so exciting about being at the shore. The waves, the wind, the sunshine...it’s most definitely my happy place!

In late June we shared one of the many moving stories we read among the entries for the Abingdon Women “Call to Me” Cruise giveaway. The entry was Amanda Dykes' on behalf of Kelli Standish, a woman she describes in terms of incredible courage and strength Coincidently, Kelli used the cruise giveaway as an opportunity to thank Katie Cushman, the woman who helped her survive...and keep the faith.

In early August, Babbie Mason found great joy in returning to Jackson, Michigan and Lily Missionary Baptist Church, which her father, the late Rev. George W. Wade, founded and pastored for 40 years. Back in her home church, she had the pleasure of leading a women's workshop based on her Bible studies Embraced by God and This I Know for Sure. Among the beautiful women who attended was Babbie's 90-year-old mother, Georgie Wade. Babbie describes the afternoon as “phenomenal and blessed.”

As I prepared to go to Nicaragua, my excitement and anxiety grew simultaneously. I knew without a doubt I was in for an adventure. Most of which would be out of my comfort zone. I have learned, however, that’s exactly where God shows up... read more

For the past six weeks we have treated you to first-hand glimpses of Jeremiah: Daring to Hope in an Unstable World. With her women's Bible study now on store shelves, we conclude our three-part interview with author Melissa Spoelstra:

It's hard to believe we've already reached Week 6 in Jeremiah: Daring to Hope in an Unstable World. Of course, you've only been given a small taste; there's much more to look forward to! ... read more

In Week 5, "Quitting the Blame Game: Personal Responsibility," Melissa reminds us that when we are tempted to blame God for hard or painful things in life, we need to remember His character and trust His goodness—especially when we don’t understand our circumstances.

In Week 4 of Jeremiah: Daring to Hope in an Unstable World, author Melissa Spoelstra emphasizes the importance of "Staying Spiritually Sensitive." Have you given 100% of your heart to God, or are you living at half capacity?

In Week 3 of Jeremiah: Daring to Hope in an Uncertain World, author Melissa Spoelstra reminds us to open our ears and listen for God's word.

Call to Me ... read more

In Week 2 of Jeremiah: Daring to Hope in an Unstable World, author Melissa Spoelstra provides insight into "Recognizing Counterfeits and the Real Deal." The issue of which she writes—idolatry—is as relevant for us today as it was for... read more