Author Archives: Julianne Winkler Smith

For He has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son He loves, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins. Colossians 1:13-14 There’s a lot of “Christianese” out there that, to the unbeliever, can sound pretty intimidating. In our efforts to share the Good NewsContinue reading “rescued”

All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. Romans 3:23 Our culture today is all about entitlement. A whole generation has been raised to believe that they should win, regardless of their efforts. (“Everyone gets a trophy!”) And for those who work hard to excel, well, they have to give in (and giveContinue reading “you deserve it! (not.)”

For I will forgive their wickedness and will remember their sins no more.  Hebrews 8:12 Here comes another one of those moments of transparency: I am getting forgetful. Thankfully, this is not applicable to my work—somehow, I manage to keep all my plates, cats, and fiery batons in the air and move from one thingContinue reading “forgetful”

“And because lawlessness will abound, the love of many will grow cold. But he who endures to the end shall be saved.” Matthew 24:12-13 The confusion and chaos in our country are undeniable—and can be overwhelming. A football coach is fired for praying with his team. College students are being kicked out of clubs and sororities forContinue reading “falling together”

Instead, you ought to say, “If the Lord wills, we shall live and do this or that. James 4:15 As the years of my Christian life progressed through various towns and churches, there have always been precious friends around me who, whether in prayer with me or simply in daily conversation, use the phrase, “Lord willing.” ItContinue reading “Lord willing”

Now by this we know that we know Him, if we keep His commandments. He who says, “I know Him,” and does not keep His commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him. But whoever keeps His word, truly the love of God is perfected in him. By this we know that we are in Him.   1 JohnContinue reading “yeah, but”

But someone will say, “You have faith, and I have works.” Show me your faith without your works, and I will show you my faith by my works. James 2:18 I wrote last time about my three-decade effort to ensure my “good vs. bad” tally sheet was heavier on the “good” side so that I would be destined forContinue reading “work because, not to”

For by grace you have been saved through faith; and this is not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not a result of works, so that no one may boast. Ephesians 2:8-9 Growing up in the religion of my parents, my faith in God was all about negotiation. My prayers would sound something like, “God, please get me out ofContinue reading “Jesus and”

Be not wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord, and turn away from evil. Proverbs 3:7 Did that blog title get your attention? Maybe you think the words that follow will be about how we Christians need to fear the exponentially evil direction our culture is going. Or the horror that should seize ourContinue reading “a time to fear”

You there! Everyone who thirsts, come to the waters; And you who have no money come, buy and eat. Come, buy wine and milk without money and without cost.   Isaiah 55:1 When you’ve been out for a walk on a warm day, working in the yard, or even just eating some salty snacks, there’s nothing like gulping downContinue reading “quenched”