MANNA IN THE MORNING

Reading Esther again, I’m realizing how differently women were treated in that culture and how little that shapes my identity today. I spent years believing God saw women as less valuable, even if I never said it out loud. After walking with the Lord, raising both sons and a daughter, and actually studying Scripture, I see it so differently now. It’s not about being modern but understanding what God meant all along.

Ever had news that made your stomach drop? Before you spiral, look at how Nehemiah responded—because it’s the roadmap we should all follow when we find ourselves in similar situations.

Ever had God open a door you weren’t expecting… but you knew you’d been praying for? You can pray for a door to open, but will you be ready when it does?

This reminded me just how powerful one person’s example can be — for better or worse.

What a reminder for us that obedience will always draw questions from people who weren’t in the room when the Lord asked of it.

When I read verses like I came across today I now have the understanding blessings follow obedience because obedience keeps us aligned with the Lord. Brokenness follows rebellion because separating from Him cuts off the source of wisdom and His protection. It’s less, “God might hurt me,” and more, “I don’t want to live unprotected.”

I’ve been juggling a lot, and it hit me this morning: I don’t want my challenges to get more attention than God’s faithfulness. Ezra drove that home in a way I didn’t expect.

Ever feel like you’re still carrying pieces of exile? Same. I wrote about it today.