In today’s world, kindness seems to be losing its place. But Scripture reminds us that love is patient and kind, and judgment belongs only to God.
Scripture Reading Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. – 1 Corinthians 13:4-7
“Do not judge, or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you. – Matthew 7:1-2
Reflection In today’s world, kindness seems to be losing its place. Too often, people choose dismissal over understanding, judgment over compassion, and even celebration over someone else’s downfall. But Scripture reminds us that love is patient and kind, and judgment belongs only to God.
My mother once gave me advice that has stayed with me all my life. She said, “If you truly want to live a righteous life, act as if someone were following you with a camera, ready to post your every action on a billboard.” That simple wisdom made me think carefully about my words and actions, considering how they affect others.
I strive to approach life with authenticity and compassion. Whether in business or personal relationships, I seek a win-win outcome and do my best to see things from the other person’s perspective. This doesn’t mean I tolerate harmful behavior, but it does mean I try to see people as human beings worthy of love, just as God sees us.
I am far from perfect, and I thank God for His mercy. When I repent, He forgives and wipes the slate clean. No one on earth is perfect, and no one has the right to belittle or condemn others for their differences. Only God is the Judge. Our role is to love.
Application The world will always tempt us to react with judgment, anger, or indifference, but as followers of Christ, we are called to a higher standard. When faced with conflict or differences, pause and consider how your words and actions will reflect God’s love. Choose patience over impatience, compassion over criticism, and understanding over judgment.
When you are tempted to dismiss someone because of their choices, beliefs, or behaviors, remember God sees them, too, and He calls you to love as He loves.
Reflection Question Am I quicker to judge or to love? How can I show patience, kindness, and understanding in my next interaction with someone who challenges me?
Prayer Heavenly Father, Thank You for reminding me that love is patient, kind, and free of judgment. Forgive me for the times I have judged others instead of showing Your love. Help me to see people as You see them, with compassion, grace, and truth. Teach me to live with authenticity, choosing words and actions that honor You. May my life reflect Your love so that others are drawn closer to You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
“Choose love over judgment, because only God sees the whole story.”
Gossip not only harms the one being spoken about, but it also damages the heart of the one spreading it.
At first glance, gossip can seem harmless. A whispered conversation here, a casual remark there. It may even feel like a way to bond with others. But gossip is far from innocent. Words spoken in secret often have the power to wound, destroy reputations, and leave people feeling broken and isolated.
The Bible warns us many times about the dangers of gossip. “A perverse person stirs up conflict, and a gossip separates close friends” (Proverbs 16:28, NIV). What may feel like light talk in the moment can actually sever relationships and plant seeds of distrust that last a lifetime.
Gossip not only harms the one being spoken about, but it also damages the heart of the one spreading it. Jesus reminds us that “everyone will have to give account on the day of judgment for every empty word they have spoken” (Matthew 12:36, NIV). Our words are not empty. They carry weight, either building others up or tearing them down.
For those who have been the target of gossip, the pain can run deep. Hurtful words have a way of echoing in our hearts long after they were spoken. But God offers healing. Psalm 34:18 reminds us, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” If gossip has left you wounded, know that God sees your pain and draws near to comfort you.
As followers of Christ, we are called to a higher standard. Instead of gossiping, we are commanded to use our words for encouragement. “Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs” (Ephesians 4:29, NIV).
Imagine if, instead of tearing others down with gossip, we chose to speak life into them. Imagine if we guarded our tongues and replaced idle chatter with words of hope, kindness, and truth.
Allow me to distinguish the difference between sharing about others in a private counseling session and sharing about others in a gossiping session. When you share with your counselor, it is not considered gossip. In counseling, your resolve can be significantly enhanced by knowing the details of who you are referring to, as the counselor guides you toward healing and resolution. On the other hand, sharing about others in any other situation would rightfully be considered gossiping.
Sharing about others can even be disguised as helpful when it is, in fact, gossip at its finest. For example, when someone says, “I’m only sharing this with you so you know what to pray for,” that’s not concern, it’s gossip wrapped in spiritual language. Don’t fall into that misconception. Instead, pray for others without needing to reveal their private struggles. God already knows the details.
Today, let us take a moment to reflect:
Are my words drawing people closer to Christ, or are they sowing division?
Do I use conversations to build trust or to spread rumors?
How can I encourage someone today with words that heal rather than words that harm?
Let us commit to being people who speak with love, grace, and integrity. After all, “Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruit” (Proverbs 18:21, ESV). May we choose life, always.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, help me to guard my tongue and resist the temptation to gossip. Let my words be filled with grace, encouragement, and truth. Heal those who have been hurt by careless speech, and use me as a vessel of Your love. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
There are some people who leave a mark on your heart that time cannot erase. For me, that person was my mother.
While she’s no longer with us, the wisdom she passed on continues to guide me, and it has the power to guide others as well. Her lessons weren’t grand lectures or complicated philosophies. They were simple, deeply rooted truths that touched every part of life.
Here are the three life lessons my mom taught me, lessons built on love, forgiveness, and grace.
Lesson 1: Love Without Limits
My mother was the very definition of love in motion.
When you looked at her, you saw love. When you talked with her, you heard love. And when she said, “I love you,” it wasn’t just words; it was a feeling that wrapped around you like music for the soul.
She believed that love should be unconditional and freely given.
“Love is love,” she’d say. “If you’re not loving with your whole heart, without expecting anything in return, then you’re not really loving.”
She took her cue from Scripture and lived these words daily:
“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” — John 13:34–35 (NIV)
Her life was a living example of Jesus’ most excellent command.
Lesson 2: Forgive as an Act of Love
To my mother, forgiveness wasn’t a sign of weakness; it was a strength born from love.
She often told me:
“When you love, you forgive. And when you forgive, you love.”
Forgiveness was woven into everything she did. She understood that no one is perfect, and that to love people genuinely, you have to be willing to let go of their wrongs.
She reminded me of this truth often:
“For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.” — Matthew 6:14–15 (NIV)
Her grace was quiet but powerful. And because of her, I strive to walk in forgiveness every day.
Lesson 3: Judge Less, Love More
“Don’t waste time judging others,” Mom would say.
“Focus on your own walk. You’re not perfect either.”
She taught me to be self-reflective rather than critical. And whenever I felt justified in calling someone out, she would gently nudge me back to humility with her favorite reminder:
“Do not judge, or you too will be judged.” — Matthew 7:1 (NIV)
And then, she’d follow it with:
“You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye.” — Matthew 7:5 (NIV)
Mom always emphasized personal accountability over finger-pointing.
“Unless you’re perfect,” she’d say, “You have no business throwing stones.”
“…Let any one of you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her.” — John 8:7 (NIV)
Her words shaped my heart and the way I treat others.
A Legacy of Love That Lives On
I miss my mother more than words can say. But I am so grateful for the legacy she left behind.
Her lessons were never forced; they were lived. And they continue to inspire me to love more deeply, forgive more quickly, and judge less.
If there’s one thing my mother would want you to remember, it’s this:
Everything, absolutely everything, comes back to love.
What life lessons did your mother or mentor teach you?
Share them in the comments below. I’d love to hear your stories.
If this message touched you, please feel free to share it with someone who needs a little light today.
I wrote this post because people often ask about my political beliefs. But when I try to explain where I stand, especially when my views differ from theirs, I’m often met with interruptions, condescension, or outright dismissal. Instead of having a respectful dialogue, I’m treated as if my beliefs are too offensive to even be heard.
Let me be clear: I listen. I stay open to what others have to say because I know we live in a world full of misinformation, manipulation, and media spin. Deepfakes, fake news, and agenda-driven narratives are everywhere. So, who can we really trust?
The truth is, in today’s world, “truth” often depends on what we choose to believe, and too often, our beliefs are shaped by sources that aren’t as honest or reliable as they claim to be. That’s why I think for myself. I seek out facts. And I form beliefs based on personal experience, reflection, and discernment.
This post isn’t about converting anyone to my way of thinking. It’s about having the space to share my perspective without being silenced, mocked, or dismissed. These are my beliefs. My truth. And I’m choosing to express them here, fully and freely, because every voice deserves to be heard with dignity, even if others don’t agree.
I’ve come to a place in life where I understand what matters most to me and my household. When I vote, it’s not about political parties. It’s about policies, policies that allow me to build the life I’ve worked hard to create.
Why I Vote the Way I Do
Over the years, I’ve noticed specific patterns. People in different life stages or economic situations often align with different parties. For instance, those working for others or facing financial hardship may find that Democratic policies better support their immediate needs, such as healthcare, job programs, or housing support. I can relate. When I was just starting out, I leaned that way, too. I needed support, and I appreciated the programs that helped me get on my feet.
But later, when I became a business owner, my perspective shifted. I began to see how certain regulations and tax requirements made it harder for me to keep my business going, let alone help it grow. In one particularly challenging year, I had to lay off and let go of my employees. The financial strain from government mandates was just too much.
Then, when the political landscape changed and new policies were introduced, ones that lightened the tax burden and made running a business more feasible, I was able to rebuild. It wasn’t about party loyalty. It was about what allowed me to continue providing jobs, serving my clients, and supporting my family.
I believe in paying my fair share. I believe in treating employees well. And anyone who has worked with me knows that I give generously when I’m able. But to give, I first need the freedom to grow, and sometimes, that means voting for policies that support businesses.
I also understand that people have different needs. Some voters may base their decisions on issues such as education, healthcare, or the environment. That’s their right, and I respect it. We all live different lives, and we all vote with the hope of improving them.
As for political affiliations, I don’t claim any one label. I vote based on alignment with my values and the future I want for my home. Do I agree with everything any one party says or does? No. But I try to choose the candidates whose policies will best serve my family’s needs.
On the topic of immigration, I believe this country is built on the strength and beauty of its immigrant roots. I’ve known many families who came here legally, worked hard, and became citizens. What I struggle with is the idea of bypassing the process. Like any home, I believe our country deserves the right to know who’s coming in and why, just as I would want to know before someone walks into my own home uninvited. That’s not about a lack of compassion. It’s about order, safety, and fairness.
At the end of the day, no matter who holds office, I choose to pray for them. Whether I voted for them or not, whether I like them or not, I believe in the power of prayer. I believe in praying for wisdom, for guidance, and for leadership that benefits all of us. That’s what my faith teaches me.
For People of Faith
For those who are people of faith, I think it’s important to remember what Scripture says about our leaders. Here are a few verses that guide me:
1 Timothy 2:1–2 (ESV) – “I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions…”
Romans 13:1 (ESV) – “Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God…”
Philippians 4:6 (ESV) – “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.”
These verses help center me when politics feel divisive or discouraging. I believe our time here on earth is part of a greater test: to live by our faith and our values, regardless of what the world looks like around us. My role, as I see it, isn’t to complain or tear others down, but to live out my beliefs through love, prayer, and trust in God’s bigger plan.
So, when I cast my vote, I think about the bigger picture, my household, my faith, and how I can best contribute to the well-being of those around me. And I trust that others are doing the same, even if their choices look different from mine.
This is simply who I am: someone who chooses prayer over protest, love over labels, and faith over fear. I may not get everything right, but I try to walk this journey with integrity, grace, and compassion for all people.
Let’s Talk
I shared these thoughts not to argue or persuade, but to invite an honest and respectful conversation. These are my beliefs, shaped by my experiences and perspective. You may agree, or you may not, and that’s okay. My only ask is that we listen to each other with open minds and mutual respect. Let’s have the kind of discussion where every voice is heard, even when we don’t see eye to eye.
The season of winter brings with it a time of year that we call Christmas time. We come together with family and friends and share love in the way of hearty feasts and gift-giving. And, while it is a festive time of year, the true reason for the season is in recognizing the birth of Jesus.
Every year, I listen to a song that is probably my favorite song of the season. This song, “Mary Did You Know?” addresses the woman who gave birth to baby Jesus. This song asks the most profound question of the mother who gave birth to the greatest person on earth – Jesus.
Yes! Mary Knew
Yes. Mary knew that her baby boy would be the Son of God. Mary knew that her son would be our Savior.
In the Bible we read the story of the angel who came to the virgin Mary to tell Mary she was going to give birth to a king:
In the sixth month, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a town in Galilee, to a virgin pledged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. The angel went to her and said, “Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you.” Mary was greatly troubled at his words and wondered what kind of greeting this might be. But, the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, you have found favor with God. You will be with child and give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David, and He will reign over the house of Jacob forever; His kingdom will never end.” “How will this be,” Mary asked the angel, “since I am a virgin?” The angel answered, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will over shadow you. So the Holy One to be born will be called the Son of God.
Luke 1:26-35
Who is the Great I AM?
In the song, you will hear the name, The Great I AM. I want to take a moment to explain that I AM is the name God gave himself. You can read more about God’s name by reading the story where Moses is at the burning bush and asks God to reveal his name, God replies “I AM.”
God said to Moses, “I AM who I AM.” And he said, ‘Say this to the people of Israel, I AM has sent me to you.”
Exodus 3:14
In the Hebrew language, I AM is the holiest name for God in the Old Testament.
The Song: Mary Did You Know?
In the following song, singer Jordan Smith, finalist in the television show called The Voice, sings a wonderful rendition of Mary Did You Know?
We who believe in the Name of Jesus are protected by His Power.
We are stronger when we team up with our Father.
We who believe in the Name of Jesus are protected by His Power. Our God is Almighty. He is awesome! He gives us the wisdom and guidance we need to live in a world where things seem to be falling apart all around us.
The enemy is busy creating disruption everywhere. He is working hard to confuse us, to disorient us in every way that he can. We only need to open our eyes to see chaos. He lies to deceive us. Those who believe his lies are subjected to his defective ways. He latches onto those who are gullible and easy to persuade. And, once the evil one snags a weak one, he is like a leech, draining them of their wisdom and their ability to do what is right in the eyes of the Lord. In their affliction, they, in turn, try to infect us with their faulty behavior, hoping we will join them on their downhill journey to the bottomless pit of the everlasting fire. They will only succeed if we let them.
We who believe in the Name of Jesus have the power to overcome anything and everything evil. Do you know that it is better that we not mind the things that are happening in our lives and in this world, but to mind our heart and soul? We are better to remember that our God loves us so much that He could no longer bear to see us struggling in sin. So, He sent His one and only Son, Jesus Christ to stand in for us. Jesus took on the burden of our sins so we could have forgiveness.
When I contemplate the depth of the love our Heavenly Father has for us… all of us… I just want to bow down and worship Him.
“But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.”
Matthew 6:6 (New International Version)
One of the most powerfully uplifting things a person can do is find a place in their home that is dark and quiet. And then sit in that place and pray. Sometimes when we sit silently and whisper the name of Jesus, it allows the Holy Spirit to surround us. These quiet moments are where we will find strength to ward off the evilness of this world. When we feel ourselves falling down, we can quickly gain strength simply by calling out the name of Jesus Christ, our Savior.
We can also find peace in music that worships the Lord. The following song is quiet and peaceful. It is a song about how there is no name greater than the name of Jesus. No name comes anywhere close to Jesus’ name. We are no longer slaves. We are daughters and sons of Christ. When we say His Name, we are blessed. We are lifted up in the Name of Jesus.
Song Title: Light Up By: Integrity Music – Written by Aaron Baxter, Sem Schaap and Hannah Waters Year: 2019
His Name is Powerful and we are blessed because of Him.
Voice of Hope by Marlene 