Shining the Light
of Hope
into Dark Places
Hope is Powerful
Welcome to the Blog!
Do you need an infusion of HOPE? The blog is where I share personal anecdotes and testimonials of the faithfulness of God in the midst of struggles such as – serious health issues, infertility, a prodigal daughter, caring for her disabled spouse, and becoming a widow – that could cause despair. I share from my heart how God gives me transforming hope to, not just survive these difficult situations, but to overcome and enjoy an abundant life even before the circumstances change.
Day 10: Faith
Faith in God’s plan for your life will allow you to have a very positive approach to what happens day to day. A life of faith is very practical. You believe in people and know that God is working the night shift and from the inside out. In this blog, Karen Sebastian, shares her faith testimony to inspire you to honor those in your life that exhibit this strength of character.
Day 9: Endurance
Even in times of trouble we have a joyful confidence, knowing that our pressures will develop in us patient endurance. And patient endurance will refine our character, and proven character leads us back to hope because we anticipate God's goodness. Romans 5:3-4 The...
Day 8: Discernment
And never let ugly or hateful words come from your mouth, but instead let your words become beautiful gifts that encourage others; do this by speaking words of grace to help them. Ephesians 4:29 The Passion Translation I was furious. Our training team had worked day...
Day 7: Diligence
So no matter what your task is, work hard. Always do your best as the Lord’s servant, not as man’s, because you know your reward is the Lord’s inheritance. You serve the Lord, the Anointed One. Colossians 3:23-24 (Voice) Here's another version: Put your heart and soul...
Day 6: Deference
Be devoted to tenderly loving your fellow believers as members of one family. Try to outdo yourselves in respect and honor of one another. Romans 12:10 The Passion Translation About four years after Bill, my late husband, died I changed my status on Facebook from...
Day 5: Decisiveness
Most of us wait until it is too late to honor those closest to us. This article provides beautiful ways to honor the stubborn, hard-headed and amazingly decisive folks in your life. #31ways2honor
Day 4: Creativity
To honor creativity, begin to think differently about the topic. Yes, music, art and drawing are creative forces, yet there is much more. How about the resiliency to look for solutions from surprising places? What is the most creative solution you have ever seen? Who manages to bring joy and hope to every situation no matter how difficult it is?
Day 3: Compassion
Compassion means that you feel the pain of others and do all that is possible to relieve that pain. It is the expression of love through tender and gentle actions. There is grace in the manifestation of what you are feeling because you put yourself in that person’s place rather than judging them quickly and becoming angry. Honor those in your life who have shown you compassion.
Day 2: Building
Building involves encouraging others to become all that God has called them to be. You build by seeing the gifts in others and promoting them above yourself. This selfless encouragement accelerates growth and releases talents where they are most needed. Choose to honor those who encourage you the most with special words of encouragement of your own.
Day 1: Acceptance
Acceptance is receiving another person willingly and unconditionally, especially when the other’s behavior has been imperfect. This character quality shows willingness to continue to love another in spite of their weakness and perceived offenses. Who do you know that provides this level of unconditional acceptance? Let them know how that has blessed and enriched your life.