The Fruit of the Spirit. I’d heard that phrase all my life. I could even stand up in church and quote the verse word for word. But those who knew me didn’t see the evidence of it through me.
Read moreThe Fruit of the Spirit in My Real Life
Author: Vonda Skelton
Vonda is a speaker, writer, and motivational humorist who is thankful God can take her messes and use them for His glory. She's the author of four books, owner of The Christian Writer's Den blog, and founder of Christian Communicators, an organization to help educate, validate, and launch women in their speaking ministries. Vonda and her husband have been married all their lives--and they're still happy about it! www.VondaSkelton.com
How Much Does It Cost to Encourage Others?
It was years ago, my first attempt at singing a solo in a previous church. Our church was at a fragile crossroad, teetering on the edge of survival. But the words were just what we needed to hear—a message of hope and confidence in the power of God. A reminder that He was still in control. I decided it was worth the cost.
Read moreMrs. Rabb and the High School Mutiny: Regret and Thanks
“I was pleased with each of your efforts,” she announced from the front of the room, “but there was one story that was especially well-written.” Could she possibly be talking about me? No, she couldn’t. After all, she knew I had been a leader in the classroom mutiny staged only weeks before.
Read moreReal Freedom Isn’t Free
No army or weapon or a leader can free us. The only way to true freedom…from slavery, strongholds, and eternal death…is what? The truth. Yes, only the truth can set us free.
Read moreTheresa “Pinky” Garrett: Clowning Around is Serious Ministry
Three and a half years ago, I shared the ministry of Theresa “Pinky” Garrett here at Inspire a Fire. A lot has happened since that time. For more than 20 years, Theresa has been traveling
Read moreRevelation: “It Is Done” or “It Is Finished” – Your Choice
Two three-word sentences that change the course of history. One takes away life. One gives it for eternity.
Read moreLove From Three Points of View
It’s February, the month of love. And since many of us are married or hope to be one day, I thought I’d address the issue of L-O-V-E. So here are three points of view that
Read moreThe Sin That Hinders in 2015
Even though we seek to serve Him with everything we do, it’s so easy to get caught up in the activity of the hands and forget the condition of our hearts. I admit it.
Read moreMary’s Pondering . . . Our Gift
And this was a surprise to me: In verse 19, it says Mary pondered that visit from the shepherds. Even though I’ve read that scripture over and over again, I’d never properly placed Mary’s pondering. I’d always thought it was the Wise Men and their amazing gifts she had pondered. But no, she didn’t ponder the honor or the expensive gifts or the value they represented.
Read moreThe Power of an Invitation, by Gloria Ashby
A former missions director, she embraced her new mission field. She entered last, rolling her walker behind the two residents she gathered along the journey from her apartment to the chapel where our class met. I welcomed my Andrew. Her real name is Jean, but I call her Andrew, after the disciple who brought others to Christ.
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