Author Archives: Shirlee Abbott

Grateful or Hateful

I’m grateful to be living here and now.  I could have lived (or died) in Europe when the Black Death wiped out one-third of the population. I could be living just now in a place of persecution or poverty. But … Continue reading

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Enjoy or Destroy

Ruth Bader Ginsburg championed her cause without condemning her colleagues on the other side of the issue. She didn’t just tolerate them, she enjoyed their company. She considered them friends. She often disagreed with Justice Scalia, and yet she said … Continue reading

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Stumbling Blocks or Stepping Stones

  We all leave a trail, a legacy for those who follow.     Some leave stumbling blocks (guilt trips, damaged emotions, toxic memories) Some leave stepping stones (words of encouragement, healing and hope) Isaiah 57:13 (MEV) Build up, build … Continue reading

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Forced Labor

When does my search for a bargain get in the way of human rights? According the the U. S. Customs and Border Protection, when those bargains are produced with state-sponsored forced labor.   The CBP has banned several imports from … Continue reading

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Obstacle or Opportunity

  Scared? Confused? At the end of your rope? You’ve got more going for you than you think.     Psalm 18:29 (NLT) In your strength I can crush an army; with my God I can scale any wall. God … Continue reading

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Underdog or Overcomer

  God sees you as a victor, not a victim.     1 John 5:4 (CEV) Every child of God can defeat the world, and our faith is what gives us this victory. Don’t let your troubles get you down. … Continue reading

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Give Up or Grow Up

  When things get hard, do you give up?     “Our faith, trust, and love are proved and revealed in adversities, that is, in difficult and grievous outward and inward circumstances, during sickness, sorrow, and privations.” John of Kronstadt … Continue reading

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Half-Empty or Half-Full

  Half = low expectations.     Ephesians 3:19 (MSG) Live full lives, full in the fullness of God. Not by halves, Lord! Fill my cup till it overflows.      

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Bad News or Good News

  I dread the news. Seems like it’s all bad.   The world’s burning Folks disagree so disagreeably Stay home! No smiles Thankfully, God’s love is always good news. Luke 2:10 (ESV) Fear not, for behold, I bring you good … Continue reading

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Shelter from Child Trafficking

Recently, more than 50 missing or exploited children have been rescued in three U. S. states. Good news! The job is far from done. According to the International Labour Union:   “At any given time in 2016, an estimated 40.3 … Continue reading

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