Broken Dreams - Sue Payne

"But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us." 2 Corinthians 4:7

The pieces were scattered everywhere. Confused and hurt, I scrambled to gather them up before one of them was lost. As I picked up each treasured fragment, memories of lessons taught and shared, plans anticipated, and hopes only a mother would dream, assaulted my heart. How could I ever get it together again? Was it beyond repair? Would it ever be the same? I comforted myself thinking, at least I still had all the pieces.

A wise mother once told me that when your children are young they’ll step on your feet. When they’re older, they’ll step on your heart, but only if you let them. I had not been prepared for the events that unfolded in my son’s life, so contrary they were to his character and to how he had been brought up in the Lord. My heart shattered.

Surely God would see what was happening and intervene, I thought. He would hear the cries of my heart and the midnight prayers. He would comfort me in the sleepless hours when fear overtook my thoughts.

Nothing changed. In fact, it continued to get worse.

After weeks of fighting this emotional stress, weary and defeated I told God that I just could not continue on in this way. It was not long before God’s Spirit whispered, “Your heart may be fragile and broken, but my power within you is greatest when you are weak.”

I treasure my son, but in my weakness of mourning his decisions, I had forgotten the ever present treasure of God’s grace and power in my life.

Although things remain the same in my son’s life, I have chosen to change. I believe that God’s perfect plan is unfolding even though I cannot clearly see it. I receive, daily, the precious gifts God has given me in this fragile jar of clay I call my heart and point to Him when others ask me the reason for my joy and strength. I hold on, in faith, to the broken pieces because within them lies my hope; Jesus, the Ultimate Treasure.

Sue Payne is a freelance writer whose articles have appeared in home schooling newsletters and church news bulletins. She is experienced in curriculum planning and design and uses her writing skills to encourage and teach others. Sue lives in Delaware, is married, and has two boys whom she home schooled for a total of fourteen years.
Read Sue's devotions.

Landslide - Sue Payne

"I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us." Romans 8:18

Landslides occur when the stability of a slope changes from a stable to an unstable condition. Like the geographical phenomenon that causes the onslaught of dangerous debris and devastation, is the “landslide” of the heart and soul. Something unexpected happens which triggers drastic change, causing faith to falter. Concentration is drawn away from the Solid Rock of Christ and focused instead on the challenges that careen down like out of control boulders.

The barrage of challenges that have recently bombarded us, stole our peace, interrupted our sleep, and broke our hearts. Like a genuine landslide, it started with several large “boulders.” We immediately went to the Lord for help. Thinking we were standing firm and handling things well, we began leaning on our own understanding. This, of course, caused smaller portions of the slope we were scaling to come loose. The smaller debris complicated our dealings with the larger boulders and we found ourselves focusing on where the next deluge of destruction might come from. Each time, it seemed, we sought strength from the Lord and obtained His peace, another piece of our lives would break apart. The muddy slopes, sown in frustration and tears, only added to the dangerous terrain we tried so desperately to scale.

We hung on to each other, never letting go. We never stopped praying and searching His Word for guidance and help. When neither of us remained standing, God graciously provided mercy to rescue us. The slippery slopes eventually reaped joy as the helping hands of friends and family offered support and love. Listening ears and wise counsel stabilized our broken life. Sharing the burdens with others and eventually letting them fall at the Lord’s feet served to free us from our fear of disaster.

The challenges and complications have not changed. In fact, some of them have worsened. What has changed is our outlook and the condition of our hearts and souls. Our “landslide” cleared away burdens that were hindering us from seeking God’s will.

What’s “rocking” your world? Know that God is working in ways we may not understand, making a way for His glory to be shown in us. Challenges face us all, but they shrink in comparison to the Rock we stand on.

Prayer: Lord, help me to persevere through challenges, building character and hope in me, so that you may be glorified.

Sue Payne is a freelance writer whose articles have appeared in home schooling newsletters and church news bulletins. She is experienced in curriculum planning and design and uses her writing skills to encourage and teach others. Sue lives in Delaware, is married, and has two boys whom she home schooled for a total of fourteen years.
Read Sue's devotions.

Not Called To Like It, Just Called To Love - Sue Payne

“Brothers, as an example of patience in the face of suffering, take the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord. As you know, we consider blessed those who have persevered. You have heard of Job’s perseverance and have seen what the Lord finally brought about. The Lord is full of compassion and mercy.” James 5:10-11


I had picked it up and carried it by myself so many times. Laying it at the cross and leaving it there had become so difficult for me. It had become so heavy at times that God, in His great mercy and compassion caused a chain of events that made it absolutely necessary for me to let it go. I had a choice. I could either give it to Him or risk damaging the relationship I had with my son.


Despite the clarity of my choice, I still fought for possession of the burden. The battle caused an unrest in my soul and deprived me of sleep. I tossed and turned, praying for God to help me release it, only to rise in the morning feeling a greater weight on my heart and soul. Why couldn’t I just let it go?


Feeling like a pack mule, I meandered into church the next morning. Midway through the morning services, my most merciful God led me to a brother in Christ who had struggled in a similar way. As we shared, the Lord began speaking to me through his words. His message was:


“I am not calling you to like it, but simply calling you to love.”


The simplicity of His message suddenly clarified the complications of my soul. The truth was, I didn’t like the situation. It was not what I wanted, but that wasn’t what mattered. God’s will was, in some way, being accomplished through the burden I carried and He needed me to relinquish it in order to complete His plan. God was calling me to hand it over, trust that His will be done and to simply love.


The tug of war was over. Laying it down, I walked into the brilliance of His will, filled with a peace that passed all understanding, prepared with patience, perseverance, and love.


Is there a burden you’re carrying that would be better off settled in the Lord’s hands?


Let go and let God.


Sue Payne is a freelance writer whose articles have appeared in home schooling newsletters and church news bulletins. She is experienced in curriculum planning and design and uses her writing skills to encourage and teach others. Sue lives in Delaware, is married, and has two boys whom she home schooled for a total of fourteen years.

Thinking of You - Sue Payne

"How precious to me are your thoughts, O God! How vast is the sum of them." Psalm 139:17

After my grandfather passed away, my grandmother kept a candy dish filled with foil-wrapped, flavored toffees. The beautiful cut glass jar made its home on the round table, right inside her front door. My brothers and I loved to open the wrappers and guess what flavors they contained. But I’m convinced my grandmother kept a constant supply of these treats for a reason other than just satisfying her grandchildren’s sweet tooth.

Realizing the loneliness his mother suffered, my dad would stop by to see her every day after work before he came home. He did this for years, rarely missing a day. I understand now how much this must have meant to my grandmother. It was something she could count on and look forward to every day. On days when she was not home, Dad would come in, help himself to a toffee and leave the wrapper next to the candy dish. It was his way of letting her know he had been there.

I can picture it as she arrived home, realizing her son had stopped by. I can almost see her picking up that wrapper and fondly holding it to her heart, treasuring the thoughtfulness it represented.

It’s a wonderful thing to be thought of in a loving way. A card, a phone call, a prayer, a visit, or a hug are just a few ways to let someone know they are important and valued.

God’s thoughts toward us go beyond human thoughtfulness. The Bible tells us they are vast! Immeasurable! He knows everything about us: our needs and desires, all that we think and do, our feelings and emotions. God understands them all. He is there for us and thinks of us every hour of every day, every minute of every hour, never missing a moment.

We’ve all experienced those times when we think God has failed to show up, possibly in our darkest moments, but that’s when we must look for and discover the “toffee wrapper”, the blessing he has left to let us know His Son has been there.

Do you want someone you can count on and something to look forward to each day? Treasure the precious thoughtfulness of God in your heart and remember that Jesus, The Son, has not just come to stop by, but to stay.

Sue Payne is a freelance writer whose articles have appeared in home schooling newsletters and church news bulletins. She is experienced in curriculum planning and design and uses her writing skills to encourage and teach others. Sue lives in Delaware, is married, and has two boys whom she home schooled for a total of fourteen years.

Publisher: Lighthouse Publishing
ISBN: 978-0-9822065-1-5

Redeemed From Rubbish - Sue Payne

“But God will redeem my soul from the grave. He will surely take me to himself.” Psalm 49:15

We needed to purchase a computer for our son for college so we shopped around and found a great offer. In purchasing the computer, a printer would come with it virtually free, via a mail in rebate. Transactions completed and receipts saved in order to redeem our rebate, we put all the boxes and packing material out on the curb for trash pickup. My husband sat down a while later to fill out the information to get our $150 back. Within minutes he came barreling down the stairs. “Did the trash truck come yet?” he asked with trepidation. “I need the barcode off the box in order to send in the rebate!” The truck had picked up our trash not ten minutes before.

Without thinking about what he would have to do to retrieve the box, he took off down the street, hoping they were still in the neighborhood. Amazingly, he tracked them down and was permitted to climb in the back of the truck and dig through the rubbish to find the missing barcode. Triumphantly he arrived home, barcode in hand and promptly took a shower.

In the ancient history slave market, a slave had to be redeemed or ransomed in order to be set free. Someone had to pay the price, enabling the slave to begin a new life.

God knew from the beginning of time that we would need to be redeemed from the “garbage” of this present world in order to be freed. We are so easily hindered and entangled by sin and temptation, preventing us from running the race marked out for us. Many of us even find ourselves enslaved, keeping us from redeeming the new life Christ has to offer.

And it’s a great offer! Jesus has already paid the price, sent in the rebate and redeemed us from the rubbish! All we need to do is accept it in order to be set free. No purchase necessary. However, the price Jesus paid was high. Without counting the cost, He carried all the “trash” of our sins upon His shoulders in order that we might be saved.

Are you looking for a great deal? An offer you can’t find anywhere else? In fact, it’s free! Jesus holds the rebate. Redeem it Today!

Sue Payne is a freelance writer whose articles have appeared in home schooling newsletters and church news bulletins. She is experienced in curriculum planning and design and uses her writing skills to encourage and teach others. Sue lives in Delaware, is married, and has two boys whom she home schooled for a total of fourteen years.

Publisher: Lighthouse Publishing
ISBN: 978-0-9822065-1-5

Body Language - Follow the Master - Sue Payne

"Join with others in following my example, brothers, and take note of those who live according to the pattern we gave you." Philippians 3:17

God’s gift of spring-like weather in early March took us to the boardwalk along the Delaware seashore. Others, seeking the warmth of sunshine and the sights and sounds of the beach, gathered and walked in small groups enjoying an unseasonable treat.

Two characters caught my eye; a large Black Labrador Retriever and a Golden Retriever puppy. Their master stood close by watching and throwing an occasional ball for them to retrieve. The Lab confidently and obediently recovered the ball each time and returned to his master, never venturing too far. The little Golden, however, lumbered clumsily along behind but was easily distracted by anything that caught his attention. It was obvious that the puppy wanted to imitate his “big brother”, but try as he might, something always seemed to make him stray.

The Lab seemed to recognize this and kept herding him back within safe distance of their master.

In Paul’s letter to the Philippians, he urged them to follow Christ-like examples and imitate their ways. He challenged them to join together with others for support and accountability in order to focus on becoming more like Christ.

Sanctification or maturing in Christ is a lifelong process. Along the way we may find ourselves being distracted by temptations that lead us away from the safety of our Master. The importance of having someone in your life who points to Christ through the way they live is imperative if you want to follow in the Master’s footsteps.

In His great wisdom, God provides guidance for each of us as we chase after our dreams and desires. His desire for us is to look to those who have taken the road to the Cross and can confidently and obediently stand upon His truths.

Do you have someone in your life who cares enough to keep you within safe distance of your Master? Or maybe you are the example God is using to point someone in His direction.

We all seek the warmth and want to play in the “Son-shine.” Your Master stands close by, waiting for you to find and receive it. Once you have it, you won’t want to venture far, except maybe to invite someone else to play “Follow the Master.”


Sue Payne is a freelance writer whose articles have appeared in home schooling newsletters and church news bulletins. She is experienced in curriculum planning and design and uses her writing skills to encourage and teach others. Sue lives in Delaware, is married, and has two boys whom she home schooled for a total of fourteen years. She is previewed in the new book, Spirit and HEART: A Devotional Journey.



From the authors of Christian Devotions comes the first in a series of 30-day devotionals focusing on the image and attributes given to us by God. Spirit and HEART: A Devotional Journey.

Publisher: Lighthouse Publishing
ISBN-10: 0982206518
ISBN-13: 978-0982206515

Love Letters - Sue Payne

"Then the Lord replied: “Write down the revelation and make it plain on tablets so that a herald may run with it." Habakkuk 2:2

Letter writing has become a lost art. Instant messaging, email, texting, Myspace, and Face-Book have replaced the “old fashioned” ways of communication. It’s a shame, really. Receiving news from someone, set in their own handwriting, has such a beautiful, personal touch. Hand-written messages from the heart can truly reach out and touch someone.

As a teenager, I communicated regularly with family and friends through pen and paper; those in college and serving in the Armed Forces. I was the one who purchased postcards and kept friends updated when on vacation with my family. And in college, I would offer my services as a seamstress in return for postage stamps so I could keep connected to those I cared deeply about.

I keep a box in the attic filled with love letters my husband wrote to me while we were dating. As silly as they sound now, I treasure the sentiments that were written to me from his heart. They are keepsakes of a most precious time in my life.

The love letters I have written in recent years have been to my sons. When it was imperative that I communicate a life lesson or spiritual truth clearly and convincingly, I would first ask God for His wisdom, then put pen to paper and pour out my heart. My prayer would always be that, in passing on the wisdom, they would take and run with it, applying it to their lives.

In the Bible, God’s love letter to us, the Lord communicates through His prophets and people with spoken and written messages of wisdom, love, obedience, and warnings of the consequences of disobedience. In the New Testament, God chose to inspire willing servants to write letters recording the wisdom and revelation of His truths. His story has been beautifully poured out for us, reaching through the generations with His personal touch... touching hearts, healing lives, restoring relationships, strengthening souls, and communicating His love.

I treasure His “Love Letter” and am so thankful that it has been written down for me to learn from, grow, and use to reach out and touch others.

God’s written Word is His way of staying connected to those He cares deeply about-- you and me.
Sue Payne is a freelance writer whose articles have appeared in home schooling newsletters and church news bulletins. She is experienced in curriculum planning and design and uses her writing skills to encourage and teach others. Sue lives in Delaware, is married, and has two boys whom she home schooled for a total of fourteen years.

Spirit & HEART: A Devotional Journey

Created in the image of the Father, we carry His Spirit and Soul, His Spirit and Mind, His Spirit and Body and His Spirit and Heart. From the authors of Christian Devotions comes the first in a series of 30-day devotionals focusing on the image and attributes given to us by God.

Publisher: Lighthouse Publishing
ISBN: 978-0-9822065-1-5

Carless Living -- Sue Payne

"But am I the one they are provoking? declares the Lord. Are they not rather harming themselves, to their own shame?" Jeremiah 7:19

I come from a line of “green thumbs” whose expertise and love for plants and flowers colored my world for as long as I can remember. I recall working in the garden with my grandmother, never really enjoying the toil of weeding or caring for the flower beds as much as the beautiful results of those efforts and learning about the many varieties that grew there. It was a labor of love for Mom Mom, though. She took pleasure in digging in the dirt, planting seeds, weeding, and pruning. Her joy was multiplied when she was able to share the fruits of that labor. When visiting others, Mom Mom invariably came bearing bouquets of fragrant blossoms. Fresh flower arrangements always adorned her tables, even when she wasn’t expecting company.

I tend to neglect my plants and flower beds despite the instruction I received. I begin with hope and expectations, anxiously anticipating beautiful results, but somewhere along the line my desire and perseverance become insignificant. Weeds choke out annuals and perennials quickly when proper care is not taken and time is not given. Without putting forth the effort, there are few benefits to reap.

Careless living can have much the same results as neglecting a growing garden. When our relationship with God becomes inconsequential, we separate ourselves from the grace-giving source of life itself. Just as a plant dies for lack of proper care, our spiritual health suffers and often dies when we cut ourselves off from our source of strength. Distractions, busyness, and apathy seem trivial until they begin to mess with and choke out our priorities.

I wonder if my grandmother realized how spiritual a lesson she taught me in her garden. By planting seeds, learning and teaching others about them, caring for them, and yes..., laboring in love to pass it on, she modeled for me, care-filled spiritual living.

Have you been careless with your relationship with God? We are the ones who suffer from lack of “Son” when we do. Do some digging in His Word this week. Plant some of what you learn in your heart and then spread the seed! There’s no telling what beautiful fruit will grow!


Sue Payne is a freelance writer whose articles have appeared in home schooling newsletters and church news bulletins. She is experienced in curriculum planning and design and uses her writing skills to encourage and teach others. Sue lives in Delaware, is married, and has two boys whom she home schooled for a total of fourteen years. She is previewed in the new book, Spirit & HEART: A Devotional Journey.

Spirit & HEART: A Devotional Journey

Created in the image of the Father, we carry His Spirit and Soul, His Spirit and Mind, His Spirit and Body and His Spirit and Heart.
From the authors of Christian Devotions comes the first in a series of 30-day devotionals focusing on the image and attributes given to us by God.

Hail from Heaven - Sue Payne

"He sends His command to the earth; his word runs swiftly. He spreads the snow like wool and scatters the frost like ashes. He hurls down his hail like pebbles. Who can withstand his icy blast?" Psalm 147:15-17

The day finally arrived. I knew it would and had anticipated it with a sense of foreboding. Two weeks had passed in a blur of grief and confusion. We had been by my Mom’s side as Jesus came to take her home into His Heavenly presence. Her memorial service was a beautiful tribute to her sacrificial life. A place was chosen, overlooking the peaceful landscape of their 54 acres to lay her ashes to rest. Everyone else had gone home, and my brother and I were the last to leave my Dad. And it was time.

I offered up a silent prayer: Lord, please help us...Leaving is so hard... I added a “thank you” for Brandy, their dog. At least he won’t be totally alone, I comforted myself.

As we walked to the car, the sky swiftly began to darken and the wind picked up considerably. Though my heart was aching, I knew if we didn’t get going and allow Dad to retreat to the safety of the house, we’d all be caught in whatever was blasting across the area. Our “goodbyes” were mercifully short and as we drove down the dirt road we had no time to dwell in our grief, for the heavens opened and hail the size of pennies hurled down upon us.

God knew our hearts were breaking. He knew it was an impossible task for us to leave. He knew that we were stuck in our grief, so He sent an “icy blast” that we could not withstand. We had no choice than to avert our attentions away from the sorrow of separation. He had heard my prayer and run to our rescue using a most unusual thing...hail.

God can speak and minister to our souls through the most amazing things! I wonder how many times I have missed the opportunity to hear God “speaking.” How many times has He tried to get my attention and I’ve missed the chance to enjoy His blessings?

God’s ways are not our ways so we must train our eyes to see His miracles and our ears to hear His voice. Who knows what blessings will be hurled in your direction?

Sue Payne is a freelance writer whose articles have appeared in home schooling newsletters and church news bulletins. She is experienced in curriculum planning and design and uses her writing skills to encourage and teach others. Sue lives in Delaware, is married, and has two boys whom she home schooled for a total of fourteen years. She is previewed in the new book, Spirit and HEART: A Devotional Journey.



From the authors of Christian Devotions comes the first in a series of 30-day devotionals focusing on the image and attributes given to us by God. Spirit and HEART: A Devotional Journey. Available April, 2009.

Tunnel Vision -- Sue Payne

"But solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained themselves to distinguish good from evil." Hebrews 5:14

Driving through the Lehigh Tunnel in northeastern Pennsylvania recently, I was struck at how the process of going through it paralleled my spiritual life.

Approaching the tunnel there is a sign that reads, “Remove sunglasses.” I have a difficult time doing this because mine are clip-ons. It would require taking off my glasses while driving and let’s just say that would be risky.

Entering the tunnel, I always feel like I’m entering a “Star Trek” movie. Bright lights line the inside ceiling, making it possible to adapt to the darkness. Gradually, the lights diminish, assuming that the human eye will adjust. At this point, I always fear that my eyes won’t, of course, because I have not removed my sunglasses! Towards the middle, the darkness seems to cave in, but amazingly my eyes adjust and I can discern. Looking ahead, I realize the light is increasing again, leading me onward towards the bright light on the other side.

I can’t count how many times I’ve traveled through that tunnel and found the weather on the other side different, usually better. And the view of the mountains can be breathtaking.

Before I was saved by grace, I thought I knew it all. Everything seemed clear-cut and manageable. Following the crowd, I had no need to see more clearly, I just watched through “rose colored glasses” and assumed I was traveling in the right direction. It wasn’t until I found myself in situations where I had no control that I realized how much I didn’t know. I found it hard to see in those places, the darkness caving in around me.

Through grace, God gave me His Word and sent special people into my life to light the way and guide me through the fear of darkness. Gradually, the dim light brightened and I was able to discern where I was, who I was, and whose I was. It was a long, eye-opening process, but as I emerged on the other side, I could see more clearly than I have ever seen. The view was breathtaking and my joy was Jesus!

As Christians, we all must learn discernment. Training our souls to distinguish good from evil is a process of adjusting our eyes and lives to His Word. What kind of “glasses” are you wearing?

Sue Payne is a freelance writer whose articles have appeared in home schooling newsletters and church news bulletins. She is experienced in curriculum planning and design and uses her writing skills to encourage and teach others. Sue lives in Delaware, is married, and has two boys whom she home schooled for a total of fourteen years. Sue is a featured writer in Spirit and Heart: A Devotional Journey.


Created in the image of the Father, we carry His Spirit and Soul, His Spirit and Mind, His Spirit and Body and His Spirit and Heart.

From the authors of Christian Devotions comes the first in a series of 30-day devotionals focusing on the image and attributes given to us by God.

Within the pages of Spirit & HEART: A Devotional Journey are passage markers to guide you into a deeper, more intimate relationship with the Father. Included in this compilation are devotions by Eddie Jones and Cindy Sproles, plus, Christy award winner Ann Tatlock and best selling authors, Loree Lough, Yvonne Lehman, Ginny Smith, Irene Brand, Shelby Rawson, and Ariel Allison.

Contact us at: books@christiandevotions.us to place your order.

Soul Testing --- Sue Payne

"Search me , oh God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting." Psalm 139:23-24

I was one of those students who worked hard to get fair grades. I faced tests with a trepidation that sometimes made me sick. I would spend hours re-writing my notes and studying my text books until I could recall the information, what page it was on, and even what the page looked like. Still, I would sit down to take tests and panic. I found myself second guessing and confusing the information, sometimes erasing answers I should have known were correct. I would always pass, but my grade never corresponded to the effort I put into studying.

My heart is a book only God can completely understand. He made it and gave it to me so that I could devote it to Him. The only way for the Lord to help me read and understand what He’s written in it is for Him to test me.

I’m usually in touch with my emotions, but when it comes to testing them, I sometimes panic. Second guessing and confusion set in, sometimes causing me to forget the way I need to respond. Often I have reacted, offending God or those around me, exposing my anxiety and self-sufficient sins. Testing can be revealing!

Unable to erase what I’ve done, I appeal to Jesus. Search me. Lead me. Show me the correct answers. Holding the keys, He gently unlocks the mystery for me to see and lays bare the condition of my heart. With His help, I am able to sort through, toss out, re-organize, and find rest for my soul.

It was only recently that I took notice of the “test” in Psalm 139. I now realize that the many “tests” in my life have given me the opportunity to grow smarter in Christ. And unlike the tests I took back in school that affected my GPA, these “exams” hold eternal value because not only did they change my heart, but also may have touched someone else’s soul.

How are your test scores? Starting today I’m going to begin preparing for my final “exam”. I want my “Teacher” to say, “Well done, good and faithful servant! Join Me in the way everlasting!” How about you?

Sue Payne is a freelance writer whose articles have appeared in home schooling newsletters and church news bulletins. She is experienced in curriculum planning and design and uses her writing skills to encourage and teach others. Sue lives in Delaware, is married, and has two boys whom she home schooled for a total of fourteen years.

Dress to Bless -- Sue Payne

"Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience." Colossians 3:12

Lately, one of the important decisions I make daily is how many layers of clothing to wear in order to stay warm. I am not a cold weather person, so I take great care in dressing properly during these chilly winter months. Our thermostat is set at 65 degrees, so I have been known to wear a hood or winter hat inside the house to keep my body heat from escaping. These kinds of layers can become quite burdensome and time consuming. The time I spend getting dressed and then removing layers, not to mention doing the extra laundry it creates, takes a lot of extra effort and still some days I find myself chilled to the bone.

According to God’s Word, we’re also responsible for dressing ourselves with “moral excellence”, which is Webster’s definition of virtue. Compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience are the wardrobe for the “chosen” who choose to put it on. These are layers we must decide to wear in order to share the warmth of Jesus.

Unlike the insulated attire we put on during the winter that holds the heat in, this virtuous line of clothing shares the warmth! And though there are more of them than layers of winter clothing, you’ll find when you wear these virtues, you can move about with ease, your heart and soul lifted with the joy and privilege of dressing like Christ.

Sharing this kind of warmth is never a waste of time, in fact, time management skills improve when you’re “dressed” appropriately. Others will notice your new look, too. You will be “dressed to bless” and they will be the recipients.

I have to admit, though, once you put these clothes of virtue on, it takes quite a bit of effort to keep them from coming off. That’s where the perfect accessory for your new outfit comes in! Colossians 3:14 says, "And over all these virtues, put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.”

Now, all you need to do is a little “soul searching” in your prayer closet. God has chosen the perfect attire for you to wear. Be a super model for Christ.

Sue Payne is a freelance writer whose articles have appeared in home schooling newsletters and church news bulletins. She is experienced in curriculum planning and design and uses her writing skills to encourage and teach others. Sue lives in Delaware, is married, and has two boys whom she home schooled for a total of fourteen years.

ALERT! -- Sue Payne

"Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour." 1 Peter 5:8

We sat by the warm glow of the campfire, surrounded by the cold darkness. My husband and I had decided to take a couple of days in mid-November to do some camping at the state park. Other than the shadows created by the fire and the dark outline of our tent and trees, the black of night draped itself around us like a long, hooded cloak. Though the campground was practically deserted, I felt safe, relaxed, and warm. We had come prepared or so we thought.

Our German Shepherd, Kelly, had been resting contentedly on her bed next to me when she suddenly began growling softly. I listened and heard what sounded like something or someone coming up from below the ridge where we had set up camp. Struggling to see into complete darkness, I quickly grabbed Kelly’s collar, noticing her heightened state of alert.

Whispering, I said to my husband, “Get the flashlight.” The steps were closing in on us and thinking his response was not quick enough, I repeated a little louder, “Get the flashlight!” At that moment a silhouette appeared just above the ridge. “GET THE FLASHLIGHT!” I screamed, just as the animal began to charge at us. The beam from the flashlight broke the darkness and quickly paralyzed our intruder, stopping it in its tracks not six feet from where Kelly and I sat.

Have you ever been so focused on something that you become unaware of what is going on around you? Blinded by circumstances, sickness, addiction, or loss, you can quickly be overcome by intruders like fear, despair, and sorrow. Even finding yourself in situations of comfort, blessing, and success can blind you to the fact that something lurks outside your unprotected boundaries; pride, apathy, or greed.

Satan is a master of disguise and gets along quite well in places where we can not see. We won’t give him credit though, because once his schemes are brought to light he is paralyzed and fails miserably. Exposing his tactics requires alertness. Resisting his attempts of deception requires self-control. All the light we need is in the name of Jesus.

Have you checked your boundaries lately?

Sue Payne is a freelance writer whose articles have appeared in home schooling newsletters and church news bulletins. She is experienced in curriculum planning and design and uses her writing skills to encourage and teach others. Sue lives in Delaware, is married, and has two boys whom she home schooled for a total of fourteen years.

Closer than a Brother -- Sue Payne

A man of many companions may come to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother. Proverbs 18:24

I was fortunate to grow up, living in the same house, same neighborhood, and with childhood friends who didn’t move away. In elementary school, junior high, and high school I was surrounded, with little exception, by the same peers until graduation. I didn’t belong to any sort of clique, but instead clung to certain close friends, two with whom I am still in contact thirty-some years later. My grandmother and her best friend met in first grade, remaining friends into their 80’s and my dad lives quite close to a friend he has known since grade school. Friendships like that are God ordained and in order to last require care, consistency, and compassion.

My best friend growing up, even at a young age, knew what it meant to be that kind of companion. I wore a Medic Alert bracelet as a child as a precaution against receiving certain medicines and warning that I was allergic to bee stings. The back of the bracelet listed three rather complicated medical terms and important phone numbers in case of emergency. My girlfriend had it memorized.

Knowing the importance of good friends, lessons learned from questionable companions, and what their relationships have done in directing my life, I have spent much time praying for God to send friends of good character and integrity into our sons’ paths. Acquaintances have slipped in and out of their lives sweeping them off the righteous path, bringing chaos and confusion at times, but in doing so have taught valuable lessons they would have otherwise missed. Though it distresses me still, I can see they have served a purpose; God can use anything or anyone to fulfill His purposes.

The transient society we live in today has reduced their chances of having lifelong friends, though God has sent certain companions who seem destined to care deeply, bless, and teach in Jesus’ name. We all need those devoted individuals who will help us see the truth about ourselves and about our lives.

Over the seasons of my life, God has prescribed devoted friends to fill important needs and to keep me on the path He ordained. I have made many acquaintances who God used for blessing or teaching and for that I am thankful, but for the faithful few who have been and continue to be “Jesus with skin on”, I am eternally grateful.



Sue Payne is a freelance writer whose articles have appeared in home schooling newsletters and church news bulletins. She is experienced in curriculum planning and design and uses her writing skills to encourage and teach others. Sue lives in Delaware, is married, and has two boys whom she home schooled for a total of fourteen years.

Finding Common Ground -- Sue Payne

"Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves." Romans 12:9-10

I own several official NFL pieces of apparel. They were gifts from my husband who is an avid fan. I don’t particularly like to watch football, but I love to watch him enjoy it. Bill likes to have someone to cheer with, so I put on my jersey, swing the “terrible towel”, and we enjoy the games and each other. I understand also that watching football games on Sunday afternoons reminds my husband of his dad. Bill is able to recall and capture precious memories of their times together just by being involved in the excitement of the game.

Last week, I was brought to tears while watching players fall to their knees on the field praying for one of their injured members. All competition ceased as both teams joined together to honor a fallen teammate. The game didn’t matter at that moment. What mattered most was their brother. Amidst the battle, there was common ground.

Love that is sincere takes work. It requires a workout on common ground. Teaching ourselves to look beyond the fouls, the flags, the trip-ups, and the tackles enables us to see what lies underneath those with whom we are in relationship. We usually find that the common ground is larger than we thought and is what matters most.

Love that is devoted centers attention and activities on others. It’s important to know what makes people tick. How has God wired that particular person in your life and what is important to them? Be sure to play by the rules, although a blitz may be required to get past those tough “offensive linemen”, but it’s worth the risk. You’ll find that the plays after that will run smoother and more efficiently.

Watching football may not be one of my favorite things to do, but being with Bill is! Finding that common ground and participating out of devotion honors him. In turn, he will watch a “chick flick” with me on occasion and sincerely enjoy it.

I am wondering, though, just how far my devotion will go. My husband gave me a motorcycle helmet for Christmas!


Sue Payne is a freelance writer whose articles have appeared in home schooling newsletters and church news bulletins. She is experienced in curriculum planning and design and uses her writing skills to encourage and teach others. Sue lives in Delaware, is married, and has two boys whom she home schooled for a total of fourteen years.

Powdered Sugar Snow -- Sue Payne

"Cleanse me with hyssop, and I will be clean; wash me, and I will be whiter than snow." Psalm 51:7

Lying in bed with my eyes still closed, I could already tell it had snowed. The insulated silence permeated my room as if some protective covering blanketed my soul. Peering through the curtains, I was awed by the beauty that had accumulated as I was sleeping. Every tree branch, every blade of grass, every leaf was individually coated with pure, white snow as if powdered sugar had been sprinkled upon the countryside. The stark grays and browns of bare branches and dead grass had been transformed into a winter wonderland. Since it was very cold, I could actually see detail in individual snowflakes stacked up on top of each other. I hurried through breakfast so I could get outside and be a part of God’s handiwork.

As I walked in awe of the blessed hush of the woods, the air was crisp and clean and the sun reflected its light on the snow creating sparkles. I noticed that even though the branches and grasses were laden with snow, it was not a burden for them. The snow was light and fluffy and seemed custom fit to each barer.

Hyssop branches coated with a lamb’s blood were used by the Israelites on the frames of their doors to protect their families. Death passed over each household that bore the symbol. Passover is celebrated in remembrance of that day when each individual, covered by the blood of a lamb, was protected and then redeemed.

As I look out my window today at the bleak mid-winter I am reminded of my life before I was redeemed through Christ. I was bare and frozen in the winter of my sins, but God saw the promise of new life.

He came into my life ever so gently, laying down truths and blessings upon me. It wasn’t long until I started to notice the individual detail and beauty that fell, accumulating in and around my days. My heart and soul, once barren, now filled with His promises and grace, were protected and covered in the blood of Jesus. Instead of being burdened, I was light; transformed into a reflection of His wonderful character.

Are you weary with winter blues? Be clothed and blanketed in the warmth and protection of Jesus’ s gift of redemption. He will sprinkle you with the beauty of His sacrifice, custom fit to cover the bleakest of souls and make you sparkle!


Sue Payne is a freelance writer whose articles have appeared in home schooling newsletters and church news bulletins. She is experienced in curriculum planning and design and uses her writing skills to encourage and teach others. Sue lives in Delaware, is married, and has two boys whom she home schooled for a total of fourteen years.

Faith Challenges -- Sue Payne

And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him. Hebrews 11:6

I was experiencing 67 degree weather in January as I ventured up the sandy path toward the beach. The warmth from the sun thawed my bones, bringing a relaxed and renewed sense of peace. Protected by the dunes on both sides, I noticed a slight breeze, but as I stepped out onto the beach the wind was howling! Ribbons of sand danced on the surface of the beach creating patterns resembling zebra stripes. The wind fashioned the sand into works of art as it encountered shells, sculpting creative dune-like mounds of different shapes and sizes. Sea gulls attempting to take flight failed to make head way. The sound of breaking waves combined with the whistling wind made it hard to hear anything but my own thoughts.

As I struggled against this force of nature God had created, I was reminded of faith challenges I have experienced and how hard it is to go against the flow. I saw the sand racing past as individuals caught up in the difficulties and trappings of life. Conformed by the world’s definitions of success, wealth, and high speed impatience, they can be literally carried away.

Gusts of wind threatened to blow me off balance as if a large crowd of people pushed and shoved. Continuing my trek, I turned around, the wind to my back. Walking backwards, I noticed that I needed to exert more energy and that it was slower going. I couldn’t cover as much ground as when I was facing the wind head on. Turning around again, I beheld what was to become the most beautiful sunset I have ever seen.

Faith challenges are hard but they are a fact of life. God understands that by pushing on towards the prize we exercise that faith. And when we exercise, we build strength to face the oncoming challenges of life.

Are you facing strong winds in your life, threatening the delicate balance of your faith? They may be God’s way of fashioning a work of art in you! Don’t turn your back. You may miss the reward God has waiting for you. Walk in faith, seeking Him and building those spiritual muscles! God will be pleased.

Sue Payne is a freelance writer whose articles have appeared in home schooling newsletters and church news bulletins. She is experienced in curriculum planning and design and uses her writing skills to encourage and teach others. Sue lives in Delaware, is married, and has two boys whom she home schooled for a total of fourteen years.

Inhabited Blues to Inherited Blessings

“But if you do not drive out the inhabitants of the land, those you allow to remain will become barbs in your eyes and thorns in your sides. They will give you trouble in the land where you live.” Numbers 33:55

I was 31 years old when I kicked the bad habit of biting my fingernails. My Dad gently badgered me for years, warning me of the consequences. I suffered with repeated bouts of strep throat eventually leading to the removal of my tonsils at the age of 27. It took me even longer to develop the good habit of regularly flossing my teeth! I now enjoy cavity free dentist visits.

When the Israelites were preparing to enter the promised land, God told Moses they would need to drive out the evil inhabitants first. God knew that the practices of the Canaanites would influence his chosen people for the worse. The idol worship ultimately would turn the their hearts away from God. The Israelites did not obey God's command and it eventually led to their corruption and compromise. The Canaanites became a thorn in their sides and an irritant that dominated their destiny.

It's a fact that the sum of our good and bad habits will dictate who we will become. The habits you cling to today will influence your future and possibly determine your destiny.

God has planned a promised land for you where you will lack nothing and have certain victory. The land you are occupying today may be inhabited with habits and hang ups that are keeping you from crossing over into that promised land. Know that God is calling you to take possession of it, but the excess baggage will have to go first. We all have those "idols" we must decide to live with or live without.

Good habits save effort, ease routines, increase efficiency, release power and lead us toward our promised land. Bad habits distract, irritate, hold us back, and cause us to settle for habitation in the wilderness. Would you like to move ahead to your promised land? Victory awaits you, but not without opposition. Bad habits are hard to break. Good habits are sometimes even harder to establish. Step out in obedience and faith, throwing off the sin that so easily entangles (Hebrews 12:1) and receive your inherited blessings!

Sue Payne is a freelance writer whose articles have appeared in home schooling newsletters and church news bulletins. She is experienced in curriculum planning and design and uses her writing skills to encourage and teach others. Sue lives in Delaware, is married and has two boys whom she home schooled for a total of fourteen years.

New Year Exuberance -- Sue Payne

"The boundary lines have fallen for me in pleasant places; surely I have a delightful inheritance." Psalm 16:6


I used to pretend that I was Julie Andrews in the movie, “The Sound of Music”. Behind our little cabin in the woods, where my family spent many weekends and vacations in the Endless Mountains of Pennsylvania, was a steep hill that led up to a high open field. I would run to the highest point where I could see the beauty of the countryside in all directions. There I would break out in song with my arms wide open, turning in circles, and my head lifted to the skies, just like the scene in the movie. Forty-some years later, I still can recall the feeling of freedom and exuberance in those moments as I delighted in the beautiful place God had chosen for me to be.

From where I stand today as I look out over the prospects of the new year, I can see many possibilities and opportunities. Some I will approach with exuberance, while others hold a certain kind of trepidation. I know each day may hold gifts as well as challenges, joys as well as sorrows, surprises and disappointments. But they will all be given within the boundary lines my awesome God has set for me. He knows the song and the desires of my heart and sets each moment into motion with me in mind.

I want to be ready, but I know I will need help. I want to be able to run into the new year with a sense of excitement. With arms wide open I want to welcome the adventures God has in store for me. I realize that I will not always have a clear view of what is to come and will need to lift my eyes heavenward for Divine guidance. And Divine guidance only comes to prepared hearts.

Seeking God’s will first and consistently trying to see life from His point of view enables us to move ahead confidently within the boundary lines He has established for each of us. Navigating in this world is not easy so remember that His Word is our map for life showing us the way. And in all things, give God praise! He is worthy!

Are you ready to step into the new year with exuberance? Do you know the freedom that comes from having a relationship with Christ? Run with praise to the heights of your heart with arms wide open. Receive and be delighted in the beauty of each new day and the possibilities it holds! Walk humbly and in faith. Sing with abandon!


Sue Payne is a freelance writer whose articles have appeared in home schooling newsletters and church news bulletins. She is experienced in curriculum planning and design and uses her writing skills to encourage and teach others. Sue lives in Delaware, is married, and has two boys whom she home schooled for a total of fourteen years.