My dad did a lot of driving well into his 90’s. He did piano concerts in nursing homes after his retirement. If dad had to play somewhere he had never been before, he would actually drive there the day before to make sure he knew where he was going and could arrive on time.

When I learned this, I bought my dad a GPS so he could just plug in the address and find his way without making two trips. After dad passed I found that GPS, in its original box, unopened.

I like to use GPS and just go where it points me, but the other day I was reminded that the GPS doesn’t always get it right! I was going to a business I had only been to once before. I told the GPS where I wanted to go and after awhile of precise directions, it said: you have arrived at your destination. After looking all around, I realized I had arrived at a destination but not my destination. My destination was 20 minutes further and I was late for my appointment!

Life can be like this as well. You put your faith in someone or something to take you where you want to go and you end up somewhere else entirely! Life and eternity are too important to trust just anyone or anything for guidance. Especially in this day of slick marketing campaigns, dishonest politicians, and Artificial Intelligence.

So, to what or to whom do we look for direction? The answer is God’s Word! In Psalm 119:89 we read, “Your eternal Word, O Lord stands firm in Heaven.” At a time when it’s hard to know what is true, God’s Word is trusted truth we can rely on. Later in Psalm 119, we read in verse 105, “Your Word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path.”

God’s Word can guide you each step along your journey and lead you all the way through this life and into Heaven one day. It’s the only truth that will guarantee your arrival at your desired destination!

The post What And Who Are You Following? appeared first on 93.7 The Light.

Everywhere we went, she paid with either her phone or credit card. And, yes, she mocked me when I tried to get out exact change to pay my bill.  

There’s a long-running commercial campaign that asks, “What’s in your wallet?” – and these days, the answer increasingly seems to be anything but cash. A survey published last week by Rasmussen Reports showed that 55 percent of American adults have gone an entire week without paying for anything with cash. And according to the Federal Reserve, cash now accounts for only about 14 percent of all our payments, which averages out to 6 cash transactions per month. Credit and debit cards together account for about two-thirds, often leading to talk of a cashless society. 

That’s quite a change. Not that long ago, leaving home without cash seemed irresponsible. We needed it for parking meters, vending machines, toll booths, garage sales, restaurant tips, school fundraisers, and dozens of other little purchases. But today, some of those same places don’t even want it.  

What’s the Difference? 

There is a remarkably big generational difference – those 55 and older made an average of 10 cash transactions per month, but those aged 18–24 averaged only 2. Some of us learned how to handle money by literally handling money. We saved birthday money and earnings from babysitting and paper routes and put it into the offering plate and our piggy bank.

Younger people still earn money, of course, but their experience of handling it is fundamentally different.  

For younger Americans, digital payments are simply a normal part of life. They tap a card, click a button, or scan a phone. It is wonderfully convenient, but it is interesting that one of the most ordinary objects in American life has become something many of us can go days without touching. 

More Changes, Less Checks 

Cash isn’t the only thing disappearing.  

Remember standing in line at the grocery store and the lady in front of you pulled out her checkbook? Even if we ourselves wrote checks, you still had to stifle a groan, especially if you were in a hurry. Just a little over twenty years ago, Americans wrote over 42 billion checks. Now the number has fallen to about 9 billion. Still more than I thought but not nearly what it was. Credit and debit cards are steadily taking their place. 

And relatively quickly too. Bank credit cards didn’t take off until the 1960s. And if you think credit card companies are aggressive now, in the early days of credit cards, some banks were so aggressively competing for customers that they mass-mailed cards out to people who never requested them, which led to theft, fraud, and financial chaos.  

But despite all this, there are surprising statistics: 76 percent of us still carry cash, and 90 percent say we aren’t planning to give it up. So we aren’t a completely cashless society yet. We may have reached the point where carrying cash is becoming less about how we are going to pay for things and more about what we’ll do if the other ways don’t work. 

I suppose I should be glad my daughter still has room in that little phone wallet for a twenty-dollar bill. Just in case.

The post What’s in Your Wallet? Are We Really Becoming a Cashless Society?  appeared first on 93.7 The Light.

Each month, one member of the group prepares and serves dinner for the other members. Most months are just good food and fellowship, but some dinners have a theme.  

Last month, the theme was Halloween.  My friend sent pictures – candles, charcuterie boards, elegant table settings, velvet pumpkins, and beautiful food. My friend, a talented hostess herself, was impressed. It looks like something you would see in a magazine. 

Or now on social media.  

Now, there is absolutely nothing wrong with a beautiful table. Some people have a real gift for hospitality, and we all enjoy seeing what they create. But I wonder if all those beautiful pictures have changed our expectations a little. 

There was a time when you invited people over, cleaned the house reasonably well, made something you knew how to cook, and hoped everyone had a good time. Now, as Thanksgiving approaches, before we even get to the grocery store, we can scroll through hundreds of pictures of perfectly decorated tables, elaborate centerpieces, and Thanksgiving dinners that look as though they required a professional event planner. 

And somehow, without anybody actually saying so, the standard has been raised. 

When did that happen? When did having people over become a production? 

Remembering Simpler Thanksgiving Traditions 

I realize not everyone had the same kind of childhood, but if you went to a relative’s or friend’s house for Thanksgiving as a child, I would guess your grandma did not coordinate her napkin rings with the seasonal centerpiece or even think about her “tablescape.” 

I remember being put in charge of making the punch and putting the brown ’n serve rolls in the oven. My brother and I crammed as many chairs around the table as would fit, and when all the food was put on the table, there wouldn’t have been room for a centerpiece! 

I have wonderful memories of those holiday dinners. I loved being with relatives we didn’t see often and eating all the food we only had at holidays.  

But I think we have lost a little of that. We might have made having people over so complicated that we sometimes decide it’s easier not to do it at all. 

To host Thanksgiving dinner – or any dinner – we think we need a bigger dining room, nicer dishes, more time to prepare, or a menu that includes something besides the same recipes we have been using for years.  

When Hospitality Becomes Intimidating 

Some people have always spent days preparing elaborate holiday meals, but we didn’t always have everyone else’s beautifully arranged Thanksgiving dinner appearing on our phones, inviting comparison. 

There is nothing wrong with wanting to make things beautiful for guests. In fact, going to extra trouble can be a way to show people how much we care about them. 

It isn’t that we have made Thanksgiving too beautiful. It’s that we may have made hospitality too intimidating. I wonder how many invitations have gone unextended because we think what we have isn’t good enough. 

Thanksgiving is coming. And while there will be plenty of beautiful tables and delicious meals, I hope there will also be crowded kitchens, mismatched chairs, store-bought rolls, and one more person squeezed around the table. 

Because years from now, someone may remember that Thanksgiving dinner.  

And I doubt they’ll remember what was in the centerpiece. 

The post Does Thanksgiving Have to Look Like a Magazine?  appeared first on 93.7 The Light.

Still officially summer. Most of us haven’t put away the lawnmower, dug out the sweaters, or thought about where we left our snow shovel last spring. 

And yet people are already searching for the winter weather news, including what kind of winter we can expect here in Ohio. 

The Old Farmer’s Almanac recently released its 2026-2027 winter forecast. So has the Farmer’s Almanac. And soon those maps will be making the rounds on social media, with Ohio labeled something like “frigid and snowy” or “bitterly cold.” 

But I have often wondered – how do they know? 

How can anyone possibly know in September what the weather will be like in January? The answer, it turns out, is that they don’t. At least not exactly.  

Insight from Long-Range Forecasts 

No one can tell us now whether SW Ohio will get six inches of snow on January 23 or whether we will have a white Christmas. Long-range forecasts aren’t really designed to do that. Instead, forecasters look at large weather patterns and determine whether a season is likely to be warmer, colder, wetter, or drier than usual. 

One of the things they are watching for the 2026-2027 winter is El Niño. 

El Niño happens when water in parts of the Pacific Ocean becomes unusually warm. That may seem a long way from Ohio, but changes in ocean temperatures can affect the jet stream and weather patterns across the United States. 

So that helps explain how meteorologists make long-range forecasts. But what about the almanacs? 

Insight from The Old Farmer’s Almanac 

The Old Farmer’s Almanac has been predicting the weather since 1792. Yes, 1792. George Washington was president when the first edition was published. 

Its method has changed over the years, of course, but the publication says its long-range forecasts use a combination of solar science (where they track magnetic storms on the sun), weather patterns, and modern meteorology. The exact mathematical formula is still a secret – and is locked in a vault at its New Hampshire headquarters. 

And the Old Farmer’s Almanac isn’t the same thing as the Farmer’s Almanac, although I admit I didn’t know that until recently.  

The Old Farmer’s Almanac vs The Farmer’s Almanac 

The Farmer’s Almanac came along in 1818 and has its own secret formula for predicting the weather. Their mathematical formula factors in moon cycles and tides. While the Old Farmer’s Almanac makes its forecast using a team of scientists and an editor, the Farmer’s Almanac is calculated by a single anonymous person using the pseudonym “Caleb Weatherbee,” to protect him or her from being hassled by critics and competitors. The current Mr. Weatherbee has held the role for almost 30 years, but even the managing editor of the almanac does not know his identity. 

Both almanacs say they have a pretty good track record. But it’s worth remembering what they’re predicting. They aren’t telling us exactly what will happen in our town on a particular day. They’re predicting general conditions across fairly large regions over fairly long periods of time. 

And sometimes they don’t agree. 

That’s true this year. The two almanacs don’t paint exactly the same picture for the Ohio Valley. 

• The Old Farmer’s Almanac predicts a cold and wet winter with the absolute coldest stretches happening in mid-to-late January and slightly below normal snowfall.  

• The Farmer’s Almanac predicts dramatic temperature swings and frequent cold snaps – one predicted around the Christmas holidays. They predict near normal snowfall levels but with snow starting as early as October. 

So, what does all this mean for those of us in southwest Ohio? 

We could have a cold, snowy winter. We could have a warmer winter with a few miserable cold snaps. We could get a lot of snow. 

Or we could spend January staring at brown grass and wondering why we bought that snowblower. 

In other words, we’re going to have an Ohio winter. 

But it is interesting that we are still so fascinated by predicting it. For more than 200 years, Americans have opened their almanacs to see what winter might bring. Today we also have satellites, computer models, weather apps, and meteorologists who study atmospheric conditions all over the world.  

And here we are, in September, still asking the same question people were asking when George Washington was president.  

What’s winter going to be like? 

I guess we’ll find out. 

The post Can Anyone Really Predict Weather This Early?  appeared first on 93.7 The Light.

It reminds me of the story about the frog in the pot of boiling water. If the frog is thrown into the boiling water it instantly jumps out. Most likely, that would be the same if it were thrown into ice cold water.  

However, the frog seems to not notice the transition from room temperature to boiling when it is placed in the water before the temperature is turned up. 

Did God make twilight and dawn as a buffer between dark and light? Would our system be shocked and unable to cope? Did God also build a buffer between Summer and Winter because the same shock from cold to hot or hot to cold would shock our system?  

I have noticed that God has built transition into many events of my life. The transitions seem dull and boring. The transitions are a period of waiting for something to happen. I’ve gotten better at waiting in transitions as I’ve gotten older, but they are still pretty difficult because of lack of patience. 

God has a reputation dating back throughout recorded Biblical history that He doesn’t tell the whole story to His creation. If you notice the narrative, it is usually when people of the Bible had to wait in that transition that they got themselves into trouble because they began to wonder, “Did God really say?” 

Biological, environmental transitions can inform us about our personal life’s cycle and hopefully prevent us from making trouble for ourselves as we wait. These transitions include: Change in Temperature, Change in Light, and Change in Time. These three transitional changes are interdependent and work together during the cycle of change. Every organism has an optimum range for each of these transitions. Everyone’s sensitivity to these conditions are unique and individually designed by our Master Creator and will vary based upon our individual bent placed within us. 

#1 – Change in Temperature 

Some organisms are warm-blooded and generate their own heat, while other organisms are cold-blooded and depend on external sources for their temperature regulation. Environmental temperature change triggers the God-given regulator within organisms to spring to life, or slow down for a rest. Less light automatically interplays with temperature and reduces or increases temperatures that initiates the need for hibernation (from cold) or estivation (from heat). 

Our human emotions or attitudes can be analogous to temperature. How often have we heard the term, “hot-blooded”? Hot-blooded may symbolize running with deep passion and convictions. We may often associate this emotional temperature with youthful carefree reactions.  

Have you noticed that you may be transitioning to a more “cold-blooded” stance in life? A place where not much excites you anymore and it takes a lot of outside motivation to feel any deep conviction or passion? 

Let’s not automatically assume this transition from hot to cold is related to age. Maybe you are in transition and the things of the past don’t hold the same excitement. How do you find renewed life within your emotions?  

Try something new. Read a different type of book. If you are an avid non-fiction reader, pick up a Sci-fi classic and test it out. Try journaling for a month. Record your thoughts and emotions to observe the deeper you. Take up a new hobby. Join a small group (book club, garden club, card club) or sign up for free or reduced priced classes through community organizations. 

#2 – Change in Light 

Light triggers an organism’s sleep/awake (biorhythm) as well as other biological routines. Have you noticed that during the summer when there is more light, you may tend to have more energy, have increased activity, and even eat less? But, as the darkness of winter approaches, you feel so tired, you do less, and you eat more? 

As you are in transition you need to ask, “Are you feeding your soul light or darkness?” Light is “whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable – if anything is excellent or praiseworthy – think about such things” (Philippians 4:8). Darkness includes anything that creates fear, anger, hate, murder, or anything that kills, steals, or destroys.  

That may seem extreme. But how do you value your health? Studies have shown that what you intake through your eyes and ears can directly impact your sleep and biorhythm.  

Studies have encouraged individuals to shut off T.V. and electronic devices several hours before bedtime. The blue-light of devices is said to disrupt our internal rhythm. Staying up late because we have electric lights to extend our day does not provide our bodies with the appropriate REM sleep needed for cell and muscle repair. Just as a baby needs sleep to grow, so adults need sleep to rejuvenate.  

#3 – Change in Time 

I have heard the quote, “Convenience will be the death of us.”  

Modern technological advances have provided humanity with more time. More time to do less. With that increased extra time there has been a rise in increased blood pressure, increased sugar diabetes, increased anxiety, and an overall decline of health. It is important to ask, “What are we doing with our time?” Gaining additional time because of conveniences could provide us with a great opportunity to achieve so much more.  

Everyone receives 24-hours a day in which we make choices. A full day could be divided into 1 full time job, a part-time job, and 8 hours of sleep with time left over for our family. We need to look at our time.  

What better choices could we make?  

Taking on an extra job is not what I’m recommending. But, you could take a community college audited class of a subject that you’ve always wanted to learn. Begin writing your memoir that would be cherished by your family. Devote extra time to reading your Bible and praying every day. Find an organization for which you could volunteer. 

Choose to become the master of your time, rather than time being your master. Don’t allow the thought of “I don’t have enough time” keep you from starting something new, or finishing something old.  

A Shift 

During the transition preceding the shift to the next phase or cycle of your life, don’t lose your perspective. God’s WORD is absolutely true. Feed your soul to remind yourself that God is working in the unseen transition time. He is adding to the outcome we haven’t yet seen; the faith becoming sight. 

Positive Reminders: 

• For the Lord is good; his steadfast love endures forever, and his faithfulness to all generations. (Psalm 100:5) 

• Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. (Deuteronomy 31:6) 

• It is of the LORD’s mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness. (Lamentations 3:22-23) 

• For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. (John 3:16) 

“Trust in the LORD/Lord with all your heart and lean not to your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will direct your path” (Proverbs 3:5-6).  

Don’t give up or give in. You may just be in the transition period before the shift becomes sight.  

The post Time of Transition: A Shift  appeared first on 93.7 The Light.

Over the past several years I have heard people longing to return to “the good ole days.” What does that mean? To many the good old days included more family time, less electronic devices, and an ability to not judge the success of an event by the amount of money that was spent. 

Why do we have to wish for those old days? Don’t we have the power to initiate those old traditions as part of our new traditions? 

Our children and grandchildren may never have experienced the simple pleasures of a Sunday afternoon with grandparents and everyone outside under the shade tree. They may not have experienced sitting on the side of a stream bank skipping rocks. I’ve watched a few friends post the fun they’ve had with their grandchildren playing games like tug-of-war, water balloon tag, and bobbing for apples. 

Here are a few additional ideas that won’t tax the pocket book: 

#1 – Family Apple Activities 

Even if you don’t visit an orchard, pick up a bag of apples and decide to make applesauce, baked apples, or just eat apple slices together. Allow everyone in the family to have some form of job in the process of the chosen project.  

Don’t be rigid and expect perfection. Whatever the outcome of the apples doesn’t shortchange the family time together and the memories made. 

#2 – Neighborhood Fall Scavenger Hunt 

Prior to the neighborhood walk, make a list of items that might be searched for within your neighborhood (similar to I Spy). You can collect your items in a physical bag, or use a phone camera to digitally capture the items. Once the walk is complete, have a family recap of what was the best find or memory from the walk.  

#3 – Family Storytelling 

Pick a night during the week when the T.V. is turned off and the entertainment is the stories that are told. Limit the storytelling to no more than 2 or 3 stories each time. This allows for the stories to be remembered.  

If possible, mix up the age group of storytellers. Encourage those older in age (parents, grandparents) to tell stories of their childhood. Younger family members can be more imaginative. Allow questions and conversation after each story. 

#4 – First Cold Day Family Activity 

As a family, pick a temperature that you will all consider “cold.” Then decide on an activity you will enjoy together on the day that temperature arrives. It could include any of the following: 

• Hot chocolate and board games 

• Family movie under blankets 

• Making popcorn 

All the listed family activities are only a start. Incorporate these activities on a regular basis. Make variations if necessary to enhance creativity and spontaneity. The goal is recapturing the atmosphere of family that was developed based upon togetherness, communication, and building of traditions.  

Our choices with our families can make today the “good ole days” our kids remember. Building family traditions aren’t always the things we do, it is more often spending time with the people we love. 

The post Fall Family Activities appeared first on 93.7 The Light.

Most girls grow up looking for the “happily ever-after” fairy tale life. However, the idea that life will be perfect with no pit-falls or trials turns out to be a fantasy, an unachievable false narrative. Many times, we find ourselves faced with this sad reality later in life and on the “broken journey.” If that’s you keep reading…there is hope.

Consequently, the “broken journey” is the reality of unrealistic and unmet expectations. To believe and want to grow up to be a Princess is an unrealistic dream which can turn into unmet expectations that can shatter the heart, unless you are Kate Middleton.

Life reminds me of a 1000-piece puzzle. From our mid-teens we start to try and piece our lives together. Sometimes parts of our lives fit nicely in place and other times we find that we are missing critical pieces. However, our expectation is for the puzzle (our life) to look like the photo on the box.

This is where “resolve” is introduced. Resolve is defined as being “settled” or “decided firmly on a course of action”. We must be resolved to keep God on the throne of our hearts (course of action) regardless of what happens, how we feel and what we see. Establishing “settled” expectations heals the broken journey. Our expectations can now be achieved when they are founded on God’s Word.

“Take delight in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart.” (Psalm 37:4)

Having a resolute mind and heart fueled Esther, Joseph, and Daniel to stand in the face of questions, danger, betrayal, fear, and death. What could have been a broken journey for these heroes of the faith turned out to be a journey of victory and an example for each of us to follow. We may not be able to control the outcome or locate the final puzzle piece, but our resolve and ability to be settled regardless of the outcome, will take us on a journey of great adventure and peace.

The post Resolve And The Broken Journey appeared first on 93.7 The Light.

October is the season of costumes, candy, and church Trunk or Treats! You’ll see little superheroes, princesses, dinosaurs, and if you are at our house and our grandkids are there, maybe a UPS Driver, Paw Patrol member and a couple of Pokemon characters (I still don’t get that whole thing!).  And that’s part of the fun!

But October also got me thinking about a different kind of mask. The kind we wear when we’re not dressing up for our church Trunk or Treat.

Maybe it’s the “I’m doing great!” mask when life feels anything but great. Or the “I’ve got it all together” mask when you’re barely holding things together. Maybe you put on a smile because you don’t want anyone to know how lonely you feel, how worried you are about your kids, or how heavy life has become.

We all do it sometimes, don’t we?  We hide the parts of ourselves we’re afraid people might not understand.  I know I have!  

But here’s the beautiful thing about God: He sees the real you, even behind the mask. And He loves you.

Psalm 139 reminds us that God knows us completely. He knows when we sit down and when we get up. He understands our thoughts. There’s nowhere we can go where His presence isn’t with us.

That means you don’t have to pretend with Him. You don’t have to put on a happy face, find the right words, or convince Him you’re doing better than you are.

God already knows your struggles, your fears, your questions, and your heart. And He invites you to bring all of it to Him.

Maybe today you need to hear this: You are fully known by God and fully loved by Him. Not the polished-up version of you. Not the version everyone else sees. The real you.

So, as you enjoy the costumes and candy this month, remember that the people around you may be wearing masks you can’t see. A little extra kindness, a patient response, or simply asking someone how they’re really doing could mean more than you know.

And when you talk to God, you can take your mask off.

He sees you. He knows you. He loves you.  And, here at Hope we try to remind you of that every day!

That’s a truth worth carrying with you long after October is over!!

The post Behind The Mask appeared first on 93.7 The Light.

It has been said there are two kinds of people. Those who see the glass half full and those who see the glass half empty. There is actually a third group of people. Those who see the glass half empty and though thirsty, they don’t drink it but rather watch it like a hawk so someone doesn’t steal it from them. That third group, they’re my people.

It really takes the fun out of life when you worry all the time. Proverbs 12:25 confirms this: “Worry weighs a person down, an encouraging word cheers a person up.” I felt worrying was just in my DNA, that while others are warriors, I’m a worrier! Then I heard a pastor say that worrying was a sin because it was a lack of faith in God. After hearing that, I began to worry about worrying!

Apparently, it’s not just me who defaults to worry when something goes wrong, because the command in scripture “Don’t worry…” comes up over and over again.

So how do you avoid worry? For this, I’ll go to the scriptures, because I still haven’t mastered it. Luke 12: 22-27 is very instructive when it comes to worrying. Jesus tells his disciples “…don’t worry about everyday life. Whether you have enough food to eat or enough clothing to wear because life is more than food and your body more than clothing.” Then Jesus talks about the birds who don’t plan ahead, but The Father feeds them. He tells us we are much more valuable than birds! “Can all your worries add a single moment to your life? And if worry can’t accomplish a little thing like that, why worry about bigger things?”

I don’t know about you, but Jesus’ reasoning here really resonates with me. He not only tells us not to worry, but He tells us why. It is a waste of time. So, what do we replace worry with? The Bible again has the answer. In Philippians 4: 6 Paul says: “Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need and thank Him for all He has done.”

Shaking such a long-standing habit of worry will take some time and effort but with Paul’s formula, you can begin replacing that worry with prayer and thanksgiving as you reflect on what God has already done for you!

The post Why Worry? appeared first on 93.7 The Light.

I love the fall. There’s something about the colors and the scent of harvest time that stirs my heart. But behind every harvest is a lot of hard work. It takes the right equipment, careful timing, and real sacrifice to bring the crops in from the field at just the right moment, not too early and not too late.

At the start of every season, our farmers have to break up hard ground and plant long before they can see anything grow. Then, through late spring, summer, and into early fall, they watch and wait as the corn, soybeans, and wheat mature. When harvest finally comes, it can almost seem like the fields were ready overnight.

But ask any farmer, and they’ll tell you that planting and harvesting are anything but overnight.

That’s a lot like the way God plants His Word in our hearts. Some hearts are harder soil than others, and He knows exactly what He’s working with. When our hearts are hard, it may take a little extra time before they’re soft enough to receive what He’s planting. There’s some spiritual digging to do, like turning over our need for control and breaking up rebellious ground. A bad attitude, unforgiveness, pride, or a view of the world shaped more by culture than by Christ can all slow the harvest. I’m so glad God is up to the task!

“I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God has been making it grow. So neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow.” 1 Corinthians 3:6–7 (NIV)

Wherever you are in the process, and however much preparation your heart may need, God is the Ultimate Farmer and the Master Gardener. We are safe in His hands. He is in control!

May every season be one where we let God soften our hearts, grow our faith, and bring His Word to harvest in us at just the right time, not too early and not too late.

The post The Right Season appeared first on 93.7 The Light.

One day, it’s still hot enough that you’re reaching for the air conditioner and wondering if summer is ever going to let go.

And then all of a sudden, you walk outside in the morning and there’s a little chill in the air.

You grab a sweatshirt.

The kids are back in school.

The leaves are starting to change.

Football is on.

Pumpkin stuff starts showing up everywhere.

And you’re thinking, “Wait a minute… where did summer go?”

That’s what seasons do.

They change.

And whether we like it or not, life does the same thing.

Kids grow up. And sometimes it seems like they do it overnight.

One day you’re packing their lunch and tying their shoes, and the next thing you know, they’re driving themselves somewhere.

Jobs change.

Families change.

Friendships change.

Parents get older.

Grandkids come along.

Sometimes you move to a new house or start a new job. Sometimes you find yourself with an empty nest. Sometimes you’re starting over after something you never expected.

And sometimes you don’t choose the change at all.

It just shows up.

And that’s usually the hardest kind.

You can handle change a little better when you saw it coming. When you had time to prepare. When you got to make the decision.

But what about the changes you didn’t ask for?

The phone call you didn’t expect.

The door that closed.

The diagnosis.

The relationship that changed.

The child who’s grown up and doesn’t need you in quite the same way anymore.

The new chapter you’re standing in and thinking, “Okay, God… what do I do now?”

Here’s what I love about God:

He isn’t surprised by any of it.

None of this caught Him off guard.

He knew about this season before you ever got here.

He knows what’s ahead, even when you don’t.

And I think sometimes we put so much pressure on ourselves to figure everything out.

What’s next?

How is this going to work?

What am I supposed to do?

Am I going to be okay?

And maybe today, you don’t have to answer all those questions.

Maybe you just need to take a breath.

Look around.

Take the next step.

Because you may not know exactly what’s ahead, but you don’t have to walk into it alone.

God is already there.

He’s already in that next chapter.

He’s already in the conversation you’re nervous about having.

He’s already in the place you’re worried about going.

He’s already working in the things you can’t see yet.

In Isaiah 43 God says, “I am doing a new thing.”

I love that.

Because sometimes a new thing is exactly what we need.

And sometimes we don’t realize that until we’re a little farther down the road.

So as summer gives way to fall, maybe let it remind you of something.

Seasons change. Life changes. But God doesn’t.

You don’t have to know everything that’s coming.

You just have to trust the One who does.

Whatever this next season looks like for you, God is already there ahead of you.

And you can take that next step with hope.

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We could pick any name from the list of the great heroes of faith in Hebrews 11. Let’s look at Moses. He was born into slavery. His parents hid him for three months because there was a King’s (Pharaoh) decree that all baby boys under the age of two should be killed, and that the midwives were to instantly kill all boy babies born.

What an obstacle! The world was not a welcoming place for Moses. Just being born placed him at risk. Do you ever feel that your life is at risk at no fault of your own? Do you feel like someone is always out to make your life fail before it can even start?

I pray that the life journey of Moses will encourage you to believe God has a purpose for your life, that God orchestrates the process of your life, and that through practice you will be able to navigate the various seasons of your life. Let’s finish the life journey of Moses before we make practical application to our lives today.

Moses’ parents had faith that God would help them protect their son. By three months of age, it was becoming too hard to conceal his existence. God gave Moses’ mother (Jochebed) a plan. She saw the daughter of Pharoah everyday down by the river. Jochebed crafted a baby basket that could float and pushed it near to the princess.

The princess saw Moses and instantly fell in love with him and wanted to keep him for her own, even though she knew it was a Hebrew baby boy. God through seemingly ordinary events miraculously saved Moses through the first hurdle of his life’s journey. Jachebed was even hired to nurse Moses, because what self-respecting princess would breast feed a child.

While born a slave, Moses was raised in Pharaoh’s palace. Moses received the best of clothes, food, and education. A far cry from the life of the slaves from which he came. This portion of his life is not clearly described in the Bible. However, it becomes clear that Moses knew he was a Hebrew by birth, but was living a double life as royalty in the palace.

Somehow, Moses gained an idea that his purpose was to free his fellow Hebrew slaves. However, this was only the beginning of the process. Moses was young (40ish) and very impulsive. This impulsivity would be a life long struggle and a handicap that he would need to practice overcoming through obedience to God.

For a more detailed recap of Moses’ early years before the “Burning Bush” experience and his return to confront Pharoah by declaring God’s words, “Let My people go!” see Exodus 1-2.

The next 40 years of Moses’ life was a process to help him learn to hear the voice of God. The next 40 years after that was the practice of Moses learning to obey the voice of God even in the midst of turmoil.

Let’s now apply Moses’ Life Journey to our journey and see if there is anything that will place us in the Hall of Faith of modern day ordinary people who placed their lives in the care of an extraordinary God.

The Early Years

Every human is born into a family, a geographic location, and a situation that is not of their choosing. However, Jeremiah 29:11 tells us that God declares over us, “I know the plans that I have for you, plans for peace and not disaster, plans to give you a future filled with hope.” God spoke directly to Jeremiah (1:5), “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart.” That setting apart is God knowing the purpose placed within us. Psalm 139:13-18 is David repeating his understanding of God’s miraculous and intricate development of our human form.

In our early years we are raised with a certain level of clothing, food, education, and place of origin that shapes our later years. There are times our lives may be so traumatic that we cannot grasp the love of God and His planned good purpose for our lives. But, as we will see through Moses’ life journey, “It is never too late to adjust to the calling of God on our lives.”

The Young Adult

The young adult years formulate our distinct personality. Our character, strengths and weaknesses are formulated through the experiences we encounter. Left unchecked, these tendencies can become hindrances later in life. What a wonderful opportunity if we are raised in a Godly home, never break the law, never become addicted, and make all the right choices without fail.

I’m sure those people exist, but I know that I grew up in a Christian home and I’m not pleased to repeat the darker side of disobedience that caused heartache for me, my family, and most of all God. However, God’s gracious, quiet, loving pursuit followed me wherever I roamed. The younger we are to hear and obey God will save us unwanted baggage down the rest of our journey.

The Middle Aged

As we enter middle aged life, hopefully we have learned to be more disciplined. We are not tossed by every wave of emotion that comes our way. I believe this is where Moses had arrived sitting on the back side of the desert. He had time to reflect on his life journey so far and weigh the results of his actions and their consequences. Where are you in your contemplation and reflection of your life lived so far? We should not live in regret, but we can live with the intention to change our future choices. Romans 8:1-2 states, “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit who gives life has set you free from the law of sin and death.”

The Mature

Hopefully we have gained a better perspective of God’s calling and purpose in our lives as we become “mature.” Mature can be a relative age. While many think of mature as over the age of 50, mature is more of being able to live a life that is moderate and content in whatever state we find ourselves (Philippians 4:11-13). Moses at the age of 80 was hearing and obeying God consistently. And yet, some of those youthful faults mentioned earlier did haunt him even into maturity.

We can never let our guard down and think we have arrived. Staying vigilant in prayer and communion with God will help us better weather the storms of life in a gracious manner that produces Godly fruit and helps us avoid fatal consequences.

God told Moses to strike the rock many years earlier to provide the people with water, but this occasion was calling for a different method. Moses’ emotions took precedence over practice. Moses during his mature years had obeyed God and seen great results: the 10 plagues of Egypt, the release of the people from slavery, the parting of the Red Sea with the people crossing on dry land, while the enemy was drowned, the 10 Commandments, the manna and the quail, and countless other displays of obedience. But this disobedience cost Moses from completing his life journey into the Promised Land of God. He was able to look over and see it, but was unable to enter.

Reading Moses’ life journey and how his outburst of anger against the constant grumbling and complaining of the people caused him to strike the rock rather than speak to the rock as God had directed gave me pause to reflect. I don’t want a youthful flaw of my past to cause me to miss the ultimate plan and purpose of blessing that God intended since before I was born.

I pray that this look at Moses’ life journey and the seasons of his life help you reflect on where you are and on how well you are doing. Our ultimate desire for this life is to hear, “Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness“ (Matthew 25:23).

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Yellowstone.

The Grand Canyon.

Yosemite.

The Great Smoky Mountains.

Majestic mountains, waterfalls, wildlife, and miles of hiking trails.

And we’d be right – but we’d also be wrong.

When most of us hear the words national park, we picture one of the country’s 63 national parks. But the National Park Service actually manages more than 430 sites, preserving everything from natural wonders to places where American history was made.

Some of America’s most fascinating National Park Service sites don’t have mountains, waterfalls, or even campgrounds.

Instead, they preserve everything from a bicycle shop and an aviation field to ancient earthworks, battlefields, presidential homes, and the places where people helped change history.

That’s one reason to pay attention to National Park Week (August 22-30). The theme this year is “Celebrate America’s Story.” It’s a good reminder that the American story isn’t just found in amazing scenery. Sometimes it’s found in places we’ve driven by dozens of times without ever stopping.

Five National Park Service Sites Worth Visiting near Southwest Ohio

The Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park does not have mountains or waterfalls. But it does preserve the story of two bicycle mechanics whose curiosity and determination changed the world forever. The Wright brothers’ bicycle shop, Huffman Prairie Flying Field, and other sites tell the story of how powered flight began in the Miami Valley.

Just a short drive away is the Charles Young Buffalo Soldiers National Monument in Wilberforce, the only national monument in the state. Young was the third African American to graduate from West Point, commanded Buffalo Soldier regiments, served as a diplomat, and became a high-ranking officer in the U.S. Army. Visitors can tour his home, view museum exhibits, and walk the surrounding trails.

The Hopewell Culture National Historical Park contains enormous geometric earthworks built nearly 2,000 years ago – one of North America’s greatest archaeological mysteries.

William Howard Taft National Historic Site is the beautifully restored Cincinnati birthplace and childhood home of America’s 27th president.

And if you are looking for the classic national park experience, Cuyahoga Valley National Park offers beautiful forests, waterfalls, scenic railroad rides, and more than 125 miles of hiking trails.

Maybe you don’t live in Ohio. That’s okay. No matter where you live, there’s a good chance a National Park Service site is closer than you think. Even better, admission is free at every National Park Service site on August 25th in celebration of the National Park Service’s 110th birthday. You might be surprised by what’s within a short drive from your home.

Did you know the National Park Service also manages:

• the Gateway Arch in St. Louis?
• Alcatraz Island?
• Mammoth Cave?
• Sleeping Bear Dunes?
• The Statue of Liberty?
• the home where Abraham Lincoln was born?

National Park Week might be a good excuse to cross Yellowstone or the Grand Canyon off your bucket list. But it might also be a good excuse to visit the National Park Service site that has been in your backyard all along.

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I was sitting by the pool, soaking up the rays and just relaxing. I was wondering why vacations have to come to an end.

I live in Ohio where many days seem overcast. We worry about things like snakes and tornadoes and the scenery is, well…mostly flat!

That’s why I often choose to vacation in Florida. There are more sunny days, more things to do and the majestic beauty of God’s handiwork; the ocean.

On this particular afternoon while relaxing by the pool, my thoughts were interrupted when the sun ducked behind some dark clouds. I began to get concerned. It was probably nothing, but I’ve spent enough time in the Sunshine State to understand that dark clouds could usher in a hurricane. Then I heard a rustling in the bushes beyond the pool. Probably just the wind but instead of dismissing it, my mind started playing out a scenario that an alligator was chasing me! I decided to go inside the house.

Even what seems to be a tropical paradise isn’t perfect. Why is it that no matter where you live, nature can be beautiful one minute and turn ugly the next? Why do animals sometimes attack people? Why does weather threaten life and limb? Why does disease take the old and young alike?

God’s Word has the answer. Romans 8:20-22 states: Against its will, all creation was subjected to God’s curse. But with eager hope, the creation looks forward to the day when it will join God’s children in glorious freedom from death and decay. For we know that all creation has been groaning as in the pains of childbirth right up to the present time.

Since the fall of man in the garden, recorded in Genesis chapter 3, our world has been broken. We can still bask in the beauty of God’s magnificent creation, but all will not be set right until our Lord establishes a new Heaven and a new earth at the end of the age. That will be true paradise and that is something to look forward to!

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Instead, July offers something even more valuable: an opportunity for a mid-year course correction.

For many of us, January arrived with hopeful plans. We envisioned healthier habits, stronger family relationships, professional growth, deeper faith, and perhaps a slower, more intentional pace of life. Now comes the honest question, “How are we doing?”

Not because God is waiting to criticize us. Not because we should feel guilty. But, because loving evaluation helps us become better stewards of the life God has entrusted to us. The beautiful truth of Scripture reminds us: “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus” (Romans 8:1).

Notice what Paul does not say. He does not say there are no consequences. He does not say there are no areas needing improvement. He simply reminds us that our identity is never determined by our performance. We are children of God first, and from that secure foundation we continue growing. Perhaps July is God’s gentle invitation to simply ask, “What’s my next faithful step?”

Let’s look at the traditional areas individuals often focus their “New Year’s Resolutions”: Family Relationships, Work and Personal Growth, Physical Health, and Spiritual Growth.

Family Relationships

Our families deserve our best — not perfection, but intentional presence.

If You Started Well but Have Slipped Slightly…

Perhaps regular family dinner activities have become rushed. Date nights have quietly disappeared. Making phone calls to aging parents became less frequent. Spending time with grandchildren, nieces, nephews, or close friends slowly gave way to busyness.

Course Correction Ideas

● Schedule an uninterrupted family meal each week.

● Plan one meaningful conversation instead of several distracted ones.

● Restart your weekly date night — even if it is just coffee on the porch.

● Send encouragement before correction.

● Pray together before solving problems.

If January Never Really Got Started…

Maybe work became overwhelming. Grief, illness, financial stress, or simply life’s demands consumed your attention. Today can become your new January.

Fresh Start Ideas

● Call one family member this week.

● Write one handwritten note of encouragement.

● Ask forgiveness where needed.

● Schedule one family activity this month.

● Begin praying daily for each family member by name.

Remember, restored relationships usually begin with one courageous conversation.

Work and Personal Growth

God calls us to work faithfully, wherever He has placed us.

If You Started but Lost Momentum…

Perhaps professional development stalled, training courses sit unfinished, books remain unread, and career goals became buried beneath daily responsibilities.

Course Correction Ideas

● Finish one course before starting another.

● Read ten pages each day.

● Ask for feedback from a trusted supervisor or mentor.

● Set one realistic professional goal for the next ninety days.

● Celebrate progress instead of demanding perfection.

Consistency almost always outperforms intensity.

If January Never Really Got Started…

Accept that life happens and unexpected responsibilities arrive. Sometimes survival becomes the priority. However, that doesn’t mean growth is over.

Fresh Start Ideas

● Identify one skill that would strengthen your work.

● Listen to one educational podcast each week.

● Register for one workshop or webinar.

● Find a mentor.

● Replace comparison with curiosity.

Growth begins the moment we choose to learn again.

Physical Health

Our bodies are gifts entrusted to our care. Stewardship includes physical well-being.

If You Began Well but Drifted…

Exercise became occasional and water was replaced with soft drinks. Healthy meals gave way to convenience and often sleep became optional.

Course Correction Ideas

● Take a 20-minute walk three days this week.

● Add one serving of vegetables each day.

● Drink more water before reaching for another beverage.

● Establish a consistent bedtime.

● Focus on sustainable habits rather than dramatic changes.

Healthy living is built one decision at a time.

If January Never Really Got Started…

You are not alone. Many people become discouraged before new habits have time to develop. Today is still a wonderful day to begin.

Fresh Start Ideas

● Walk around the block.

● Replace one unhealthy snack each day.

● Schedule your overdue medical appointments.

● Stretch for five minutes every morning.

● Invite a friend to become an accountability partner.

Small victories create lasting momentum.

Spiritual Growth

Our greatest goal is not simply becoming more productive. It is becoming more like Christ.

If Your Spiritual Habits Have Slipped…

Perhaps your Bible reading became sporadic and prayer became rushed. You’ve found your church attendance has become inconsistent and your quiet time is difficult to protect.

Course Correction Ideas

● Read one chapter of Scripture each day.

● Begin each morning with five intentional minutes of prayer.

● Memorize one verse each month.

● Join or reconnect with a small group.

● Keep a gratitude journal.

Faith grows through faithful habits.

If January Never Really Got Started…

Maybe you set a lofty goal of reading through the Bible in a year. Maybe you felt intimidated by prayer and didn’t know where to start in praying or studying.

The wonderful news is that God welcomes every new beginning.

Fresh Start Ideas

● Begin with one Gospel (Matthew, Mark, Luke, or John).

● Pray honest prayers rather than perfect prayers.

● Attend worship regularly.

● Ask someone to study Scripture with you.

● Trust that God delights in every step toward Him.

The Lord is never surprised by where we begin. He simply invites us to keep walking.

Progress Over Perfection

One of the greatest lies we believe is that if we cannot do everything perfectly, we should do nothing at all. But Scripture paints a different picture. God consistently works through imperfect people who simply remain willing.

● Peter stumbled

● David failed

● Jonah ran

● Thomas doubted

Yet each experienced God’s grace and continued walking forward. Perhaps that is exactly what July is meant to remind us. Not to dwell on what we haven’t done. Not to replay our disappointments. Not to compare our journey with someone else’s. Instead, July invites us to adjust our course while there is still plenty of this year ahead.

Never Give Up

Life with Christ is not a sprint. It is not even a marathon with a finish line we cross on this side of heaven. It is a lifelong journey of growing, learning, serving, repenting, rejoicing, and becoming more like Jesus day by day.

Some days we walk confidently, some days we stumble, but, by God’s grace we keep moving forward. So wherever you find yourself this July, hear these words with hope:

● There is no condemnation in Christ Jesus.

● There is always room to grow.

● There is always another opportunity to begin again.

● There is always grace for the next step.

NEVER GIVE UP! Life is a journey of faithful obedience. Every step taken with Christ is a step worth celebrating.

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Author, Broadcaster, Podcaster Jon Gauger talks about the power of memorizing and using David’s book of Psalms as self-talk responses whatever life is throwing your way.

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Hank Gieseler with Pilots For Christ International talks about the mission of serving ministries in need of transportation support. It is a mission of mercy and a labor of love – learn about volunteering or donating at PilotsforChristInternational.org

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John Scroggins shares the vision and mission of The Baton Exchange. Christian Mentorships for young professionals are available to teach leadership, expand your professional skills, and grow your faith through The Baton Exchange-dot-org.

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If you haven’t seen any Europeans praising American hot dogs, free refills, or gas stations on Instagram, Twitter, or Tik Tok recently, you have either been without your phone or are wise enough not to have any social media at all. But I would guess most of us have at least heard about it.

Some visitors from Europe, here for the FIFA World Cup tournament, have discovered Buc-ee’s. Others are amazed by our use of ice and the ability to get free drink refills. Some are delighted with the safety they feel, some with our friendliness, and some are just fascinated by the variety of choices at Walmart.

It sometimes seems funny to us because, well, yeah, of course we have that.

And honestly, that is probably the point.

Most of us don’t think much about convenience stores. We stop, use the restroom, buy a drink, and leave. We don’t stand there marveling at the snack choices, the ice machine, or the fact that we can drive hundreds of miles across the country on good roads and find another gas station every few miles.

We are used to it. The things we see every day rarely seem remarkable.

And as I have watched World Cup visitors react to life in America while our country prepares to celebrate its 250^th anniversary, I have been thinking about that. Not so much about the hot dogs but about the things we have stopped noticing.

We have inherited a country that has provided freedoms, opportunities, and stability that much of the world has spent centuries seeking. Because we have always lived with those things, it is easy to assume they are normal.

But they are not normal. There literally is no other country on earth that provides the stability and freedom that America offers.

And those things were given to and preserved for us by earlier generations of people that we for the most part will never meet. We inherited roads we did not build. Schools we did not establish. Communities we did not create. We inherited the freedom to worship openly, speak freely, vote, own property, start businesses, gather together, and pursue opportunities that the rest of the world only dreams about.

Not everything we have is perfect, but it is valuable. Most of us have never known what it is like to be unable to speak openly about our beliefs. Most of us have never known what it is like to need government permission to attend church. Most of us have never experienced war on our own soil. We have grown up with freedoms that seem normal simply because they have always been there.

But they did not appear by accident.

Someone built them. Someone protected them. Someone sacrificed for them.

Receiving an inheritance usually comes with responsibility. If someone leaves you a family Bible, you don’t just toss it in the trash. If they leave you a family farm, you do not immediately pave it over and forget about why it mattered.

You take care of it.

And eventually, you pass it on.

The same is true of a country. The Europeans making videos about gas stations is a good reminder to recognize the other things we take for granted. When we recognize something’s value, we don’t just celebrate it – we talk about it, we teach it, we refuse to take it for granted, and we preserve it so we can pass it along to others.  

As America 250 celebrations happen across the country – and even beyond – remind yourself of the blessings we have. Help teach the next generation not only what America is but how it got here.

Because one day this country will no longer be our inheritance.

It will be theirs.

And the question we should ask is not just whether we appreciate what we have been given but whether we are doing a good job passing it on.

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Dan Lusk of Momentum Refresh talks about serving needs with excellence at events in Ohio.

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