Philippians 2:3-8

I often find too much of a demand on my time and energy from those I love and other good things. I remember an especially taxing week when I felt so drained I was ready to run away from home. Standing by our kitchen window while taking in a glimpse of the serenity God gave us in nature, I said to my hubby, “Let’s run away.” So, we hopped into our single-engine plane to explore a beautiful area at the shores of Charlevoix, located on the Straits of Mackinac and mouth of the Grand Traverse Bay. We spent the day riding loaner bicycles around while taking in the sights. It was precisely the refreshment both of us needed. That day filled me up to give out more for those who needed me most.…

The following blog post was originally published on September 6, 2016. —ed. Contentment is always elusive when it’s based upon the pursuit of personal happiness. While the world encourages us to prioritize our own felt needs, realize our dreams, and strive for personal success and satisfaction, there is no lasting contentment in such selfish pursuits. …