Heavenly encouragement
I was cold. Having to get out of my nice, warm bed early on a brisk morning didn’t seem like an ideal way to start the day. I was tired. I hadn’t slept well the night bef... »
Maria Fontaine
Maria Fontaine is a Christian author and retired co-director of the Family International, a Christian online network dedicated to sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ. She is the author of numerous articles on the Christian faith life.
Victory in tough times
When seeking Jesus for encouragement for any difficulties that you (or one of your friends or loved ones) may be experiencing, the Lord brought to mind the life to come.... »
Reaching out at Christmas
With the Christmas season beginning, we will likely be presented with numerous opportunities to talk to people about how the babe in the manger is a gift that can have gr... »
Overcoming personal weaknesses
Life is often likened to going to school, and that’s a good analogy. God allows all sorts of things to happen in our lives to test us, to see how we’ll react to them, to... »
Cashing in on change
I’ve heard and read many encouraging stories about the positive aspects of people’s experiences embracing the changes that come with aging. Well, now it’s my turn! I’m di... »
The ultimate pet rescue service
Pets act as companions, helpers, and sources of comfort in difficult times. When pets die, the resulting sense of loss can be very painful. People who experience this oft... »
Now and forever
As the New Year begins, many people are looking ahead with a measure of trepidation to what lies ahead for them and their families and friends, as well as for the world i... »
Christmas reflections
I recently had some time to relax in quiet solitude, and I decided to spend it sitting in front of our small manger scene. I lit some candles and one small lamp and liste... »
Making a masterpiece
When the life of a follower of Jesus is lived as Jesus intended it to be, it becomes a thing of beauty. Being a Christian and having a relationship with God should be som... »
The birthday mix-up
It was my birthday and I was returning a phone call from one of my relatives, but to my surprise, I didn’t recognize the voice that answered. The woman on the other end s... »
No favorites
If I were to ask you to describe Jesus’ ministry to people, what would you say? It’s an important question, because He’s called us to be His representatives in this world... »
The superhero within
Have you ever experienced some particular problem or pain that surprised you by how debilitating it was? Perhaps it was a sore toe or an earache that outwardly seemed sma... »
Faith in times of crisis
No matter how devastating, irreversible, or hopeless things seem when you’re facing a major setback or a life-threatening situation, you can choose to continue to activel... »