Elizabeth Purcell

"The Lord is near to all who call on Him, to all who call on Him in truth." - Psalm 145:18 (ESV). At times, we all yearn for closeness, comfort, and reassurance that we are not alone. We may feel hesitant to approach God, fearing that we can’t fully reveal ourselves to Him or that He won't respond to our calls. Perhaps we have reached out to Him before and felt as though He didn’t answer. However, Psalm 145:18 assures us that God is not distant; He is close, accessible, and always ready to hear those who[...]

As we approach the holiday season, many of us take time to reflect on the deeper meaning behind our traditions and celebrations. One of the most profound Bible verses that resonates with me during this time is from Isaiah, which speaks of the birth of a child who will bring hope and peace to the world. "For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace." Isaiah 9:6(E[...]

“Whoever gives thought to the word[a] will discover good and blessed is he who trusts in the Lord. The wise of heart is called discerning, and sweetness of speech increases persuasiveness. Good sense is a fountain of life to him who has it, but the instruction of fools is folly. The heart of the wise makes his speech judicious and adds persuasiveness to his lips. Gracious words are like a honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and health to the body.” Proverbs 16 20-26(ESV).  “A worthless man plots evil[...]

"You are my friends if you do what I command you." John 15:14(ESV). "And Samuel said, "Has the Lord as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the Lord? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to listen than the fat of rams." 1 Samuel 15:22(ESV). Growing up, I believed the story of Noah's Ark was simply about a man who built a gigantic boat to save his family and the animals from a great flood. However, reflecting on this story, I realize it also emphasizes Noah'[...]