Where God's Word Meets Our Mess
I was 13 years old when my friend Alexis* moved away. Losing her was really hard because I’d grown up with her. We’d attended the same church and the same homeschool groups, and we’d even played soccer on the same team. But Alexis isn’t the only friend I’ve lost in my life. Many of my friends have been “friends for a season.” Even though it’s not fun when a friendship ends, it’s not unusual.
Unfortunately, this behavior (i.e., phone fixation in social situations) is common for people of all ages. It’s not just a teen girl issue. Even more unfortunately, this behavior is what’s holding us back from making real connections with each other.
Before I dive into this post about modesty, I want to say I understand how difficult it is to be modest in the summer—and in every season. I promise I’m not going to tell you how long your shorts should be or what type of swimsuit you should buy. Rather, I’m going to encourage you to consider your relationship with Jesus as you select your summer wardrobe.
My friend Emma* serves in several different ways at my church. She helps in the youth group, she sings during worship services, and she’s on a planning committee—among many other things! When she talks about her involvement in various ministries, I sometimes wonder: Should I serve more at church?
Though I had some preconceived notions about the writers' conference, it turned out to be much different than I had expected. It helped me realize (or re-realize) a few important things about my writing craft and my relationship with God. So whether or not you’re a writer, here are two lessons I learned at my first writers' conference that apply to anyone who belongs to Christ and wants to use his or her talents for His kingdom.
As you know, TTT is a place where God’s Word meets our mess. It’s where I share personal stories + Scripture to encourage you. And I realize I write about the importance of “being real” with others quite often. But I also realize it can be difficult to do that in a co-ed setting, like a co-ed small group through your church. That’s why I want to share three practical ways you can be transparent in your co-ed small group (without being awkward).
It’s perfectly normal to feel deflated when someone criticizes you (or something that you’ve done). Receiving negative feedback can be really hard, even when the person giving it has the best of intentions. That’s why I want to offer you some guidance on how to receive it well. So friends, here are three biblical ways to deal with criticism.
But. I did hear something in a sermon several months ago that has changed my perspective on why God “withholds” good things from us—and it’s something that you need to hear, too.
Recently, I’ve been trying to figure out what steps to take next with my second book since I haven’t had success connecting with a literary agent or publisher. In this season of waiting, I’ve reached out to several authors to ask for their advice. I’m grateful for each piece of advice I’ve received from them, but there’s one specific piece of advice that really stood out to me—and I want to share it with you.
Tizzie's Tidbits of Truth 