I've been trying to piece my thoughts together with no loose ends - a circle beginning with my own struggle and ending with hope. But sometimes things don't work out that way. Sometimes we don't have an answer to "why" we hurt, only the solid, concrete slab we're standing on with the word "trust" etched …
Tag: love
“The Little Girl with a Big Heart” – a short story
Can God use a little girl and a simple craft to change a hardened heart? The Little Girl with a Big Heart “You can’t be serious. I’m not making a Valentine’s Day box!” Harold shouted as the teacher set a shoebox in front of him. “I’m an old man, and I don’t fiddle with pipe …
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Another Blanket
A Fictional Story Another Blanket Catherine’s gnarled fingers reached for the skein of pale green yarn as she settled in to crochet another blanket. Only this time, the arthritis was unbearable. As her fingers ached and refused to cooperate, her heart broke. She rested her hands on the soft yarn in her lap and bowed …
The Presence of God
Sometimes God will pull you in so close that you don't want to leave His side when He sends you back. Back to work. Back to folding laundry. Back to paying bills. But you have to go. You have to step back into your life and pick up where you left off. Well, not exactly. …
“Missing Christmas” – a fictional Christmas story
Here it is, friends! This year's Christmas story has finally arrived! But if you're short on time (trying to finish your wrapping or baking?!) and would rather listen as I read this story, you can check out the video at the end. Merry Christmas! I pray you have a wonderful Christmas celebrating the birth of …
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“The Family Ornament”
Revisiting the 2022 Christmas story of a woman looking back through a dark season and seeing those who've helped to light the way. Dear readers, thank you for your time these past few days! We made it! Next up, the 2023 Christmas story, "Missing Christmas." You won't want to "miss" it! In the meantime, if …
“A Star Shining in the Night”
Revisiting the 2019 Christmas story of a struggling family and God's miraculous rescue from a dark storm. Hello, friends! I'm having so much fun looking back at these past Christmas stories, and I hope you are too! As promised, I plan to reveal this year's story soon - THIS WEEK! Stay tuned, and thanks again …
When Christmas Hurts
If you're struggling with tragedy or loss during this time of year when most seem joyful, I pray this older post brings you comfort and reminds you of the hope that is yours. https://joeyrudder.com/2021/12/23/when-christmas-hurts/?page_id=757
When God is Silent
Sometimes you're met with silence when you go to God.You wonder if you're praying wrong or if God is mad at you. You may even begin to doubt that He cares or, worse, that He even exists.Oh, dear soul, don't entertain those lies from the enemy or let them torment you in those moments of …
Joey Rudder 