By Linda Tancs
Do you confuse guilt with shame? Guilt and shame are not the same. Guilt is what you feel for what you’ve done. Shame is how you feel about an aspect of yourself. In other words, guilt is your “do”; shame is your “who.” The key to overcoming either one is to draw nearer to God (Hebrews 10:22; Isaiah 61:7). It starts with confession. Own it, as they say, and then give it to Him (1 John 1:9).
By Linda Tancs
“If You See Something, Say Something” is a national campaign that raises public awareness of the signs of suspicious behavior. It’s a reminder of the biblical edict as well; if you see something untoward in the words or action of a believer, then you’re supposed to say something. Matthew 18:15-17 outlines a step-by-step process for handling correction. It commands directly confronting the offender privately, then involving witnesses if needed, reporting to the church, and finally treating unrepentant individuals as unbelievers. Correction isn’t condemnation; it’s direction. See and say.
By Linda Tancs
A “hollow willow” is a Slovak expression used to describe someone who is safe to confide in. We all want a hollow willow, but we live in a fallen world full of opportunity to betray another’s confidence. In Proverbs we’re reminded of the value of an individual who displays discretion (Proverbs 11:13). How one handles information reveals character, and it takes maturity to keep secrets. Be a hollow willow. That’s the kind of righteous and truthful living that brings blessing and security.
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By Linda Tancs
It’s often said that breakfast is the most important meal of the day: The way we fuel our body in the first instance affects the remainder of the day. So it is with seeking God. Think of time in God’s Word as spiritual nourishment to start the day. In Psalm 63, David described seeking God early. You can, too. (Psalm 5:3). Have breakfast with Jesus. You’ll be amazed at the results.
By Linda Tancs
The Torah sets forth several attributes of God, among them that God is compassionate, gracious, slow to anger and abounding in kindness (Exodus 34:6-8). These attributes aren’t reserved for God. You are, after all, made in His image and likeness (Genesis 1:27). By emulating these very attributes, we also create the goodness which allows us to know God. Keep working on those attributes.
By Linda Tancs
Expectations shape our perception, profoundly influencing how we interpret the world. The best type of expectation you can foster is a biblical one. Biblical expectation is a confident, faith-based anticipation of God’s intervention, promises and goodness, rather than self-focused entitlement. It’s anchored in hope, waiting on God to act (Psalm 5:3) and expecting His goodness (Isaiah 30:18). How great are your expectations, biblically speaking?
By Linda Tancs
Golden handcuffs are financial incentives—such as large bonuses, stock options, or deferred compensation—designed by companies to retain key employees by making it financially disadvantageous for them to leave. These perks keep employees “trapped” in high-paying jobs they may otherwise want to quit. But anyone can submit to golden handcuffs. We all have trappings, regardless of occupation. They can lead to idolatry, spiritual decay or harmful desire (Luke 12:15). Beware of your own snares.
By Linda Tancs
During World War II, Protestant watchmaker Corrie ten Boom helped rescue Jews in the German-occupied Netherlands. Among her precious observations, she once remarked about a piece of embroidery, encouraging her listeners to picture it being placed between oneself and God with the finished side facing Him. As she explained, we see the frayed, loose edges, but God sees the whole pattern. It’s a beautiful metaphor for life. Don’t fret over what you can’t see or explain. God sees the whole picture. Someday, so will you (1 Corinthians 13:12).
By Linda Tancs
“This Little Light of Mine” is an American gospel song that originated in the 1920s. It inspires people to let their light shine through their actions and presence. It’s an exhortation of Jesus’s own words to His followers that they are the “light of the world.” He instructed them not to hide their light, but to let it shine before others (Matthew 5:14-16). We often speak of people who “light up a room.” It isn’t just somebody else; you were made to shine! Keep an electric candle in a room you visit often. Turn on that light as a reminder of who you are meant to be.
By Linda Tancs
In American football, a personal foul is often referred to as “unnecessary roughness.” Of course, it’s not limited to the football field. Like sport, it might be physical. It could also be emotional or mental in the form of verbal abuse and other behavior. The Bible cautions against roughness in its many forms; rough behavior is contrary to God’s character. Instead, we’re called to be peacemakers, not aggressors or bullies. Love your neighbor (Leviticus 19:18) and avoid quarrels (Proverbs 15:1) and bullying (Proverbs 3:31).
Choose peace (Psalm 34:14) and avoid the penalty box.
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