"All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work." 2 Timothy 3:16-17
I’m heartbroken over the loss of Charlie Kirk. Evil tried to silence him, but his voice and courage will live on.
I had the honor of meeting Charlie and asking him a question that feels so meaningful now: “My son loves the Lord and wants to stand for truth in politics, but he’s scared of the hate and attacks that come with it. What advice would you give him?”
Charlie’s response moved me to tears. He said the most important thing is we can’t live in fear. We’re called to live boldly and courageously. He shared that he gets death threats every day, and yes, he feels fear—but he also said if he weren’t doing this work, he wouldn’t be fulfilling his God-given calling. He told me he found joy and contentment in doing exactly what God had asked him to do.
Charlie lived what he preached. He stood boldly for God, for truth, and for righteousness until his very last breath. His words will continue to inspire my son—and countless others—not to shrink back, but to live courageously.
Charlie, thank you for your courage. Thank you for showing us what it looks like to be faithful, even when it costs everything. We grieve deeply, but we know you are now with the Savior you loved so much.
Quiet time with God is never about the location—it’s about the connection. Whether I’m sitting with a fancy coffee in hand at my favorite café, in my living room, by the beach, or on my back porch listening to the birds, His Word speaks the same truth.
But I’ve found that changing up the setting can bring a sense of freshness and excitement. A new spot, a different view, or even just a warm mug in a different place can help my heart approach Scripture with renewed energy. The Word never changes, but the environment can sometimes stir us to listen in a new way.
Yesterday at the beach, I watched two men fishing side by side. One reeled in several large fish—each about five pounds. The other managed only two tiny fish, no bigger than minnows. I found myself feeling bad for the man who caught only two tiny fish in the sea, while watching the other man excitedly pull in nice large fish.
It reminded me of how life feels sometimes. I’ve had those same thoughts comparing myself to others who have larger homes, nicer cars, boats, or even different kinds of success than mine. Some people seem to be hauling in “big blessings”—abundance, answered prayers, open doors. Others appear to catch only “small blessings”—things that seem insignificant compared to what others are experiencing. This is a thought process I’ve had to pray through often. In therapy, we call it the “comparison trap.”
In the midst of my thinking and praying through this simple fishing scene—God whispered to my heart: both men caught fish. Both were provided for. And in the same way, every blessing—big or small—comes from the same good Father.
Jesus reminds us in Matthew 6:26, “Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?” And again in Matthew 6:33, “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”
Scripture also tells us, “Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights” (James 1:17). Whether it feels like a 5-pound blessing or a minnow-sized one, it is still evidence of His care. Sometimes God uses the small blessings to grow our gratitude and faithfulness. Other times He pours out abundance to remind us of His overflowing generosity.
Prayer: Lord, help me to see every blessing in my life—big or small—as a gift from You. Teach me to be faithful with little and to give thanks in all things. Help me to seek first Your kingdom, trusting that You will provide what I truly need. Open my eyes to Your provision today, and let me rest in the truth that You are always good. Amen.
Anxiety and depression can feel like heavy chains, weighing down the soul and dimming the light around us. If you are struggling in a season or just a day of heaviness, please remember that God never asks us to carry the weight of this world’s trials alone. Scripture says,
“Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you” (1 Peter 5:7).
God doesn’t simply care in a passive or distant way—He leans in towards our souls when we call on him in our trials. He is always close to us and tenderly holds our every tear and every fear.
When life feels overwhelming and heavy, remember:
“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit” (Psalm 34:18).
In the valley, no matter how deep, long, or wide– His presence is our steady companion and ever present help in times of trouble. In the trial–in the silence, He whispers peace and hope into our souls.
Take courage today. Your emotions may rise and fall like waves, but God’s love for you does not waver. His faithfulness is content and steady.
God has written hope into our stories, and He is still guiding you toward brighter days and a prosperous future. “
“For I know the plans I have for you…plans to give you hope and a future” (Jeremiah 29:11).
Today, remember that you are not alone. Hold on to hope, cling to His promises, and trust that light will break through the darkness.
Last week, Hurricane Erin passed through the Atlantic, causing massive waves and dangerous sea conditions, taking a toll on parts of the North Carolina coast. Living on the coast allowed me and my family to observe the storm’s impact on the water. It was the most powerful force of nature I’ve ever seen in person. The waves were massive, the sea was furious, and the wind coming off the water was intense. They were intimidating—full of strength and energy. We watched several brave souls attempt to surf those dangerous conditions. Many tried with all their might, with skill, and with every creative idea they had to ride the mighty waters. Most, however, couldn’t even get past the first set of waves, let alone make it to the bigger ones further out. Watching from the safety of the shore was both terrifying and awe-inspiring. It reminded me of the time I watched the movie The Perfect Storm in the theater. My eyes could barely believe what I was seeing! As an empath, and as a soul who finds connection with God’s creation, I stood there in amazement, and I couldn’t help but think about life’s storms. I thought about some of my own storms—times that felt like they would last forever, times when I felt like I couldn’t endure another hit, and times when I wondered if God even heard my cries. At times, life’s circumstances can feel just like those crashing waves—too overwhelming, too powerful, too relentless to face. Maybe you’ve been there, or maybe you’re caught in a storm right now. Life’s storms come in many forms—loss, betrayal, illness, financial strain, broken relationships, unfulfilled dreams, or even unanswered prayers. Standing there on the shore, watching the waves pound and crash again and again, watching debris from other places wash up where I stood—it was awesome and humbling. Maybe your storm feels that way too—like you can’t catch your breath before the next wave comes crashing down, like you just can’t get a break. I know the storm is painful! But I also know this: every storm has a beginning and an end. No storm or trial lasts forever. In those moments, it’s easy to wonder if it will ever end. It may feel like your life has become nothing but crashing waves, leaving you questioning if you can hold on. But as I sit now at my favorite coffee shop overlooking the Atlantic, I’m reminded of something beautiful. Less than a week later, the same ocean that had been raging with enormous waves, rip tides, and danger, is now calm again. Gentle waves roll in. Families play in the surf. A yellow flag waves and lifeguards welcome swimmers back. The waters have returned to their normal baseline. It is hard to believe this is the same shoreline I saw last week—wild, furious, and overwhelming. Now it is peaceful and joyful. God is amazing. This is the truth we need to hold onto in the middle of our storms: Storms don’t last forever. They begin, and they end. Life will return to normal. You will get a chance to breathe again. Psalm 107:29 reminds us: “He stilled the storm to a whisper; the waves of the sea were hushed.” The same God who created the sea has authority over the storm. He has authority over every storm we face. If you are caught in a storm right now—if the winds are raging, debris is crashing in, and waves keep knocking you down—remember this one profound truth: His voice has the power to calm your heart in the midst of it all. The storm will not last forever. It will return to its baseline. Until then, hang on to Jesus. Jesus showed His power when He calmed the storm in Mark 4:39. The disciples feared for their lives, but with three simple words, the waves obeyed Him. The storm they thought would destroy them suddenly became still. “Peace! Be still!” Friend, the storm you are in today will not last forever. You may feel like you can’t get past the first crashing wave, but hold on—God is with you. He promises never to leave or forsake you (Deuteronomy 31:6). He is your anchor when everything else feels unstable (Hebrews 6:19). And one day, you will look back and see that what once felt impossible has given way to calm seas. You will see His love and grace over the storm, and you’ll realize how much you learned through it. For today, it’s okay to cry in the storm. It’s okay to not be okay. So if you’re walking through one of life’s storms right now, take heart. Hang in there. Remember: The waves may be big, but your God is bigger. The storm may feel endless, but God’s love for you is endless too. The waters will settle, and when they do, you’ll clearly see the faithfulness of the One who carried you through. Hang on. Hang in there. Peace is on the horizon.
“Listening to God… Obeying His Still Small Voice… Defining Success According to His Perfect Plan…”
In Jeremiah 11:4, God says: “Obey me and do everything I command you, and you will be my people, and I will be your God.”
This verse reminds us that a Godly life is rooted in listening and depending on God. Obedience is not about control or crossing something off a “to do” list. Obedience is about a real life “relationship” with God. It is about having such a closeness to God, that we trust Him completely, to the point of total surrender to His plans. Desiring God above all— Above anything this world has to offer.
Joshua’s life was a model of obedience to God. He continually sought God’s guidance and obeyed, even when God’s instructions didn’t make sense to human reasoning. Marching around Jericho for seven days wouldn’t make sense in military strategy—but Joshua trusted God, and obedience led to victory. That is the purpose of life, “To have God’s victory in our lives!” Joshua’s victories were not the result of his own wisdom but of God’s faithfulness.
God is faithful!
Success—Do we ever ponder or pray about this concept in our lives? It is important to remember that the world defines success in one way—God has a completey different meaning for “success” in the lives of His children.
Let’s pause and reflect:
1. What does success look like to you?
2. What does success look like when viewed through the lens of the Holy Spirit? Does this change your answer to what success looks like?
3. What is the difference between earthly and worldly success?
4. Since success looks different on each individual person: Is it fair to compare yourself to the success of others?
5. Are you successful? Why or why not? — Be honest with yourself.
6. Perhaps the issue is more about a new or deeper calling—and not a lack of success?
Godly success in our lives isn’t measured by wealth, power, or recognition—it’s found in faithfulness to God’s call on your life. Success is not about what you build but about who you become along the faith journey, as we listen, obey, and walk closely with Him.
God rewards our faithfulness! He desires us to move forward in the success he’s planned for each of his children. He desires us to succeed! The success is according to His plans and purposes and not our own thoughts, plans, and comparisons.
Friends, spend some time pondering “success”. Praying and asking God to guide you to His plans and purposes!
Personally, When I am firmly planted in God’s will—That is when I feel most successful.
As I watch the waves crash against the shore, I’m reminded that life never stands still. It’s a rhythm— Which consists of highs and lows, joy and sorrow, loss and new beginnings.
There are wonderful seasons that take our breath away with beauty. And… Seasons that knock the wind out of us with grief. People will come and go— Loved ones taken too soon, new relationships arrive like unexpected gifts. In the midst of it all, life keeps moving—just like the ocean.
Life maintains a holy mystery—A divine rhythm that is continual and perplexing.
In the midst of life’s uncertainty God reminds us that we’re called to trust Him.
Proverbs 3:5-6 “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will direct your paths.”
Ecclesiastes 3 “ There is a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance.”
Friends, if you’re standing in a season of life with crashing waves, take heart: God is sovereign over each and every tide.
He is with you when the waves crash down on you, when the waters bring you abundant joy, and when your heart is breaking.
Like the waves, The Lord will carry us forward—sometimes gently, sometimes forcefully—but always with purpose.
Regardless of the season you’re facing, hold tight to the Rock that holds fast and never shifts with the tide.
Everyday we momma’s get lost in the busyness of taking care of nearly everything (At least that’s how my life feels on many days) In this busyness and the continual hustle of life, it’s easy to get stuck on autopilot-pilot and forget to live intentionally.
This is not a post to infuse shame into you sprit, it is just the opposite, a post to help us busy mom’s recognize the torture we unknowingly place on ourselves. After all, moms wear many hats and often forget about our own needs, in the constant endeavor to meet the needs of everyone around us. Moms, take a deep breath, just for a moment think about the daily tasks that you manage and take care of, to the point that many spouses, children, and others would get lost in the task of doing everything on daily task list. Mom’s, you serve, you give, you move from one thing to the next— All day, everyday, and it is so easy to forget about joy.
Let’s be honest, for most of us “joy” is usually some far away thought, that we have heard about and know we should regularly have in our life, but we rarely truly tap into “joy”. This is not because life is somehow against us, it is most-likely because we fail to ponder, tap into, or even think about inviting “joy” into our everyday lives.
When living in the well-known auto-pilot mode, it does not come with a “joy” option – Auto-pilot is survival, endurance, and making it through the day. Auto-pilot is allowing the familiar neuropathways in our brain to run the show. Auto-pilot is necessary from time to time, but most of us momma’s camp out there because it seems easy, except it’s actually so much harder in the long run .
Joy is the best part of being alive, it is purpose, meaning, and hope. The only way we can fully access joy is to begin making joy a regular intentional thought and to refocus our brains toward intentional living. Intentional living will look like a life that consists of joy, peace, and contentment. God has given us a purpose, meaning, and aspects of life that enliven us, we’ve often just lost touch of the things we love. God has placed desires in your heart and has given you things you love and desire. It is important to slow down long enough to intentionally seek the things in life that we desire and that bring us “joy”.
Here are some questions to help you recall what you love about life?
What makes you smile?
What makes life worth living?
What brings you joy?
What causes you to forget about time?
What makes you feel most alive?
When do you feel most like yourself?
I am going to be honest; These questions at first glance were overwhelming to me. For some reason, they brought up unexpected and conflicting emotions. It was “as if” my souls needed such a refreshing thought process, but my flesh desperately wanted to skip over the questions due to feeling vulnerable and even somehow exposed. As I sit here and write, I feel a hint of sadness and a tear slipping down my cheek – Where is my joy? Why does it feel so far removed from my presence? Maybe, even a little fear about the thought of tapping into this “joy” concept.
Friends, when you engage in the things you love, you reconnect with God, with the people you love, others who come across your path, and with the truest version of yourself. This life sure has a way of causing us to lose sight of joy and to fail to bring out our truest self – This life has a way of pushing these parts of us down. What about you? How often do you feel true joy? How often do you feel like the truest version of yourself?
In a world that often feels overwhelming, joy must be pursued intentionally. Unfortunately, joy doesn’t just happen to us one day. Joy is pursued and even something we have to fight for to achieve. It is essential we learn to live with joy in our lives, because life is short and I choose to live a life with intention, not a life I merely survived through.
How often do you live on autopilot—letting your flesh, busyness, and stress dictate the pace. This is a virtually important concept, because joy doesn’t come from chaos. It NEVER will! Joy only comes from intentional living with Christ at the center. We can only find true “joy” when we slow down and actively search for and look for it in our everyday lives. We must “pursue” joy it rarely comes to us out of the blue, it is a continual pursuit of God, purpose, healing, meaning, and intentionally seeing the beauty all around us.
“Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.” — Colossians 3:2
“In Your presence is fullness of joy.” — Psalm 16:11
Joy is found in God’s presence, in seeing beauty in the everyday, and in remembering what lights your soul on fire.
Take care of you. Not just so you can keep going—but because God delights in you when you’re fully alive.
Sitting at the coffee shop this morning, I had a revelation regarding how I label my quiet time with God. I always write “Devotional” at the top of a blank sheet of paper. This is a way to engage more with the scripture, by writing verses that stand out, and thoughts that His word brings to my mind. There is nothing wrong with writing “devotional time” at the top of my paper, However I realized this morning, that it felt more like a phrase that feels dutiful and structured, like checking off a spiritual task. Making this one small shift in wording changed everything, at least for today.
I crossed out “Devotional” and above wrote “Time With God.” This felt inviting and refreshing. I mean who wouldn’t want to spend time with God?
As I sat down for my morning quiet time, there was an amazing and obvious shift happening within my spirit. I felt closer, wanted, invited, and a deeper desire to spend time with the Almighty Counselor, Comforter, and my Best Friend. Something powerful happened when I wrote the words “TIME WITH God”… Saying the words out loud feels like a breath of fresh air. Instead of crossing off a “spiritual task” or completing a chore, I was invited to sit with my Creator. I was reminded once again that spending time with God is a blessing and an honor. It is not an obligation; It’s an invitation.
“Time With God” is a time to sit with my Creator, my Shepherd, and my closest Friend. Time with God always draws my heart in, softens my spirit, and awakens a longing inside to be with Him.
Words matter. There is power of life and death spoken through words. This is why The Bible is life-changing and renewing – It is truly God’s words spoken to humanity.
Scripture reminds us of this truth over and over:
“The tongue has the power of life and death…” — Proverbs 18:21
“Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight, O Lord…” — Psalm 19:14
“In the beginning was the Word…” — John 1:1
Words shape our mindset, our faith, and even our desire. This is the power of the most popular therapy tool, CBT, recognizing and altering the thought process to manage anxiety, depression, and fear. CBT being integrated with God’s word and the Holy Spirit is powerful and life changing.
Somehow this morning, renaming my devotional time to “Time With God,” made it all the more precious and special. Time with God should never be a task— God desires true relationship with me and you. That is amazing! We are loved by God! He longs to spend time with us! Time with god is not about checking a box—it’s about meeting with the One who holds my heart.
Perhaps today, you just need a small shift too…
Instead of saying “I have to do my devotional,” try, “I “get” to spend time with God.” WOW!
I pray this message breathes fresh life into your day, in the same way it did mine!
It’s going to be a good day! I started it with “Time With God”!
As a counselor, one concern I hear often is whether virtual therapy is as effective as in person therapy.
Common Questions:
1. Are you able to thoroughly connect with a therapist through a virtual platform?
2. Do you lose personal connection through a screen?
3. Is virtual therapy as effective as in-person therapy?
I have been wanting to address this concern professionally for quite sometime. Here are my thoughts, with evidence based proof on the subject.
In our digital age, people question whether a true therapeutic connection can be established through the medium of a screen or telephone. This is a valid concern, as the “relationship” between client and therapist is the essential ingredient to healing outcomes. Every well trained and effective therapist’s primary concern should always be about building rapport, portraying authentic empathy, and establishing trust with clients. Can these essential aspects of therapy be established in a virtual setting?
I have been an in person therapist and a virtual therapist for nearly 10 years: What I have learned from providing both forms of therapy consistently is that it truly doesn’t make a difference in the quality of therapy or the outcomes of therapy. The most important aspect is whether the therapist can build rapport and establish trust with a client, an effective therapist will be able to do this regardless of the manner of connection. From a Christian perspective, healing is a holistic journey of the mind, body, and spirit. A compassionate and skilled therapist is as powerful in a virtual room as in the office. A Christ-like presence transcends physical boundaries and offers hope, understanding, and grace no matter the format. Many people insist on in-person therapy, which is totally understandable and completely up to the client to make the best decision for them. I will say, this often limits them to lower quality of care, less variety, and can be more costly due to the overhead costs for the clinician.
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1. Evidence from Empirically Proven Studies
• Studies have proven no measurable difference in therapeutic outcomes. A 2022 meta-analysis of 12 randomized controlled trials (931 clients) across conditions—addictions, eating disorders, childhood mental health—found no significant differences between telehealth and face-to-face therapy in symptom reduction, overall improvement, functioning, client–therapist working alliance, or satisfaction—both immediately and in follow-up (Remnant Counselor Collective, NIH Study).
• Broad meta-analytic support. A larger meta-analysis including 20 trials reported no significant difference in treatment outcomes post‑treatment (g = –0.043) or at follow-up (g = –0.045), and attrition rates were virtually identical (RR ≈1.006) (ResearchGate).
• CBT efficacy holds firm. Studies confirm that therapist-guided remote Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)—via phone or video—is as effective as traditional CBT for many disorders.
• Even audio-only therapy works. Research supports that telephone-based therapy for depression and anxiety is just as effective and builds strong therapeutic alliance.
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2. A Christ-Centered Connection, Even Online
For Christian’s, building rapport is not about physical presence; it’s about presence of heart; it’s about whether the therapist connects with the Holy Spirit and their ability to allow Christ to be an active participant in all therapy sessions. When a therapist listens with empathy and responds with wisdom and compassion, the love of Christ is made known—even through a screen. It is Christ in the center of the session, actively working within hearts, the therapist and the clients that aid in deep rooted healing.
Many clients feel more at ease in their own space, and therapists gain valuable context by glimpsing a client’s home environment. For many, virtual therapy feels less intimidating and more intimate.
2 Corinthians 13:11 “Finally, brothers and sisters, rejoice! Strive for full restoration, encourage one another, be of one mind, live in peace. And the God of love and peace be with you.”
Philippians 2:2 “then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being on in spirit and of one mind.”
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3. When Virtual May Not Be Ideal
While virtual therapy is highly effective for most people, there are a few potential exceptions:
• Young children and some teens may have difficulty staying focused in virtual sessions. They often benefit more from in-person engagement where play, movement are more easily achieved.
• Easily distracted clients—especially those with attention challenges or chaotic home environments—may struggle with consistent engagement online.
* Domestic violence situations where speaking freely is unsafe.
Steps For Setting Up an Environment for Effective Virtual Therapy
• Find a quiet, private space with minimal distractions.
• Silence notifications, close other tabs or devices, and treat the session with the same priority as an in-person visit.
• Avoid being preoccupied with work, multitasking, or checking your phone. Making space for therapy reflects your commitment to healing—and to honoring what God is doing in your life through this process.
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4. Practical and Spiritual Benefits of Virtual Therapy
• Accessibility: Virtual sessions break down barriers—geographic, financial, and physical—opening the door for more people to receive care.
• Comfort and control: Being in your own home often reduces anxiety, fosters safety, and encourages openness.
• Efficient stewardship: Time saved from commuting can be invested in prayer, rest, or further spiritual growth.
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Conclusion
The research regarding the effectiveness of virtual therapy is solid and shows that it is just as effective as in-person therapy for the majority of the population. With proper preparation and a heart open to God’s healing work, virtual therapy becomes more than just convenient—it becomes sacred space. In fact, in many ways I have seen it prove to be even more effective, as people feel more comfortable in their own settings.
As Christian therapists, we believe that the Holy Spirit is not bound by physical walls. He meets us in the counseling room, the car, or the corner of a quiet bedroom where someone logs into their session. Whether in the office, online or over telephone, what truly matters is the relationship—a space where trust is built, healing begins, and lives are transformed by grace. I am grateful for my clients who allow me the opportunity to do what I love everyday, being a part of God’s healing journey for their lives.
I am grateful for the amazing virtual therapists who have walked with me through some of life’s greatest struggles. I am grateful that I am not limited by a defined number of therapists located in a single town, but due to present day technology have access to a larger therapist network by having access to anyone licensed in the state where I reside.
I pray this article acts as a guide for those of you questioning the effectiveness of virtual therapy verses in-person. Regardless, of the choice you make it is important to pray and seek God for guidance to find a therapist who can help you healing by connecting with you and helping you to connect with the True Almighty Counselor.
