Posts by Richard Parrish
The God Who Works Within Our Limits
Last week, we considered what happens when life’s demands exceed our capacity. Moses discovered that even faithful people can carry too much. Jethro’s words – “You are not able to do it alone” – were not a condemnation of Moses’ weakness. They were words of grace, allowing him to acknowledge what his weariness was already…
Read MoreWhen Demands Exceed Our Capacity
Have you noticed? Demands often exceed our capacity. Just check your email inbox: promotions insisting you need the latest… another request to meet… and reminders that you have not replied to previous requests. For some individuals and small businesses, the pressure is far more serious as expenses exceed income. And for some of us, keeping…
Read MoreThe People Who Walk With Us
One of the greatest misconceptions about spiritual growth is the belief that we can do it alone. Many of us value independence. We appreciate the ability to solve our own problems, carry our own burdens, and quietly work through our own struggles. While there are certainly seasons when solitude is necessary, Scripture consistently reminds us…
Read MoreStories: The Language of Belief
I’m aware that the strongest voices shaping me are often the conversations taking place within my own heart. When a conversation doesn’t go as I expected, I can quickly begin wondering if I’ve said something wrong. A mistake revives an old narrative, and the looped message tries to convince me: “I always seem to fail.” …
Read MoreThe Habits That Shape Us
Small Choices. Lasting Formation. I believe there is a tendency to underestimate the power of small things. Dramatic moments and significant decisions are much more noticeable. We celebrate major accomplishments and life-changing events. Yet much of life is shaped not by a single moment, but by thousands of small choices repeated over time. The same…
Read MoreThe Voices We Listen to Matter
One of the realities of modern life is that we are surrounded by voices. Some come from people we know and trust. Others come through news outlets, podcasts, social media, books, advertisements, and the steady stream of notifications appearing on our phones throughout the day. Silence has become a rare commodity. While we often think…
Read MoreThe Formation of a Nation – and the Formation of a Heart
Reflections on Faith, Unity, and America’s 250th Year This year marks an important milestone in our nation’s history. For 250 years, the United States has existed as an independent nation. Anniversaries like this invite us to pause and reflect. They encourage us to look back with gratitude, acknowledge God’s faithfulness, and consider the values that…
Read MoreMaking Space for God Isn’t Easy
Learning to Create Space for God My intentions are good. My follow-through does not always match my intention. Let me explain. I really want to spend time with God. That’s a good desire. But it is common for something to always get in the way – preempting my desire by distraction. It’s not a lack…
Read MoreLearning to Abide, Not Strive
Most of us know what it feels like to try harder. We try harder to be patient, pray consistently, stay focused – to be peaceful, faithful, and spiritually grounded. While effort certainly has a place in our lives, many people quietly discover something discouraging: Striving alone does not transform the heart. Effort may change behavior…
Read MoreClarifying Spiritual Formation – What It Is and Isn’t
If you’ve ever heard the phrase spiritual formation, you may have wondered what it actually means. For some, it feels unfamiliar. For others, it sounds unclear – maybe even a bit intimidating. It can bring to mind structured programs, spiritual expectations, or the quiet pressure to “do more” in order to grow. For some, it…
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