Category Archives: Devotional Essays

Your Support Circle of Six

Posted on April 24, 2023 by texpatfaith

A trusted friend and counselor once told me that it’s hard to have more than six meaningful relationships in your life at any one time. Even that number may be tough, depending on your personality and where you are serving. … Continue reading →

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Three Essential Elements of Self Care

Posted on August 10, 2022 by texpatfaith

“Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. Do not conform to the pattern of this world, … Continue reading →

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A Window into the Worship to Come

Posted on August 13, 2021 by texpatfaith

by Shirley Ralston This devotion was originally published at Thrive Ministry “And when he had taken it, the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb. Each one had a harp and they were holding golden bowls … Continue reading →

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Market Madness

Posted on August 9, 2021 by texpatfaith

by  Shirley Ralston A version of this devotion was originally published at Thrive Ministry “Have mercy on me, my God, have mercy on me, for in you I take refuge.I will take refuge in the shadow of your wings until … Continue reading →

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God’s Presence In Your Absence

Posted on August 4, 2021 by texpatfaith

by  SHIRLEY RALSTON This devotion was originally published at Thrive Ministry “Even to your old age and gray hairs, I am he, I am he who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you; I will … Continue reading →

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Crossing Cultures

Posted on July 30, 2021 by texpatfaith

This devotion was originally published for Thrive Ministry “…I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some. I do all this for the sake of the gospel, that I may share … Continue reading →

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A Hero’s Journey

Posted on March 23, 2021 by texpatfaith

“If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God,  who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.” James 1:5 “The beautiful thing about this  adventure  called faith is that we can count … Continue reading →

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Crossing Cultures

Posted on February 10, 2021 by texpatfaith

“…I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some. I do all this for the sake of the gospel, that I may share in its blessings…” 1 Corinthians 9:19-23 Adapting to … Continue reading →

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Meditation Amid His Majesty

Posted on January 21, 2021 by texpatfaith

“One generation commends your works to another; they tell of your mighty acts. They speak of the glorious splendor of your majesty—and I will meditate on your wonderful works.” Psalms 145:4–5 “The purpose of meditation is to enable us to … Continue reading →

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Total Openness: The Wrong Solution (Encouragement: The Unexpected Power of Building Others Up, by Larry Crabb)

Posted on April 27, 2015 by texpatfaith

Not long ago, my husband and I were traveling in Australia. When Sunday came around, we found a place to worship. The pastor, a guest speaker for the day, was a gifted communicator. He was funny, passionate, knowledgeable…and very open. … Continue reading →

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