Have you ever dined alone and found it hard not to focus in on what people near you are saying? Recently, I had the opportunity to enjoy an early dinner by myself at a local café. At the next table, two men had met up after work and were talking. Since it wasn't busy and there were just a few diners, it was virtually impossible for me not to overhear a conversation between them. I sat sipping my soup, listening quietly; curious about what men talk about when they're together.

Wouldn't it be nice for someone to take responsibility for a mistake or offense? It is very common these days for people to blame someone else for everything they perceive has gone wrong, politicians being the exception of course, right? Whether in a marriage, work, or in church, for that matter, how refreshing would it be for us to hear, "I'm sorry, that was my fault." I was at an intense personal development training about 10 years ago that taught me something I hope I will

When someone wrongs us, what if loving them doesn't cover the offense you experienced? After all, the Bible says, "The end of all things is near. Therefore be clear-minded and self-controlled so that you can pray. Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins." (1 Peter 4:7-8, NIV) The good news is that love usually does win out. But what if it doesn't? What if no matter how hard you try, you just can't get past it? Most of the time we can fo

"Don't use foul or abusive language. Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them. And do not bring sorrow to God's Holy Spirit by the way you live. Remember, he has identified you as his own, guaranteeing that you will be saved on the day of redemption. Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior. Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgivi

"Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins." 1 Peter 4:8 (NIV) It seems that accepting one another as is has become very challenging these days. Marriages, families, communities, and even nations seem almost focused on their differences. Even Christians are divided by the choices in this presidential election. I remember when debate without hate was real. I have had major differences with people who became good friends. A few years ago, I