Laurie’s Blog
In church last Sunday as I listened to the story of Hagar in the desert, greeted by The Angel of the Lord in her time of need, it gave me such hope to know that my God sees me and knows my every need. (Genesis 16:7-16) It also reminded me that God has given me the gift of free will to recognize His presence often, sometimes, or not all. I have never had God visit me in the startling way Hagar did, but when I have cried out to Him, He has shown me His presence. About seven years ago when I found myself in a “desert,” I can specifically remember driving down the road, crying out to God, tears streaming down my face (glad you weren’t on that road, right?!), a cardinal flew in front of me, so close to the windshield I thought I might hit it. It stopped my train of thought for a moment, and then I went on with my crying! But when it happened again- this time not one but two cardinals- I just knew God was telling me, “I’ve got this.” After that, I started recording the timing of my cardinal visits- like on the window sill right outside of my desk window as I sought to share some Good News with readers. As God carried me through that “desert” in my life, He grew in me the desire to have conscious contact with Him much more often- not just when I hurt but also when I saw Him in the sunshine of another day or when I felt I had decisions to make. Pausing to ask Him, “What do you think God?”
And yes, the cardinal visits continue. Like yesterday, when I opened the front door to hear the sound of the afternoon rain. I took a moment to take a pause from some angst I felt as I prepared this issue and notice God’s beauty. There in a bush, right outside the door- nestled in the center of the bush- was a cardinal. “I’ve got this,” I could almost hear Him say. How has God made His presence known to you? I’d love to hear your story!
–-Laurie Stroud
Founder, The Christian Family Publication, Inc.
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Celebrating 18 Years of Good News!
“Look to the Lord & His Strength, Seek His face always.”
1 Chronicles 16:11 (Holman Standard)
Birmingham Christian Family AUGUST GIVE-AWAYS:
TO SAY THANK YOU for reading and supporting the businesses and organizations that advertise with us and make spreading Good News possible, we have TWO GREAT GIVEAWAYS to help you enjoy time with family and friends!
- Tickets to Bulls, Bands and Barrels!
August 25th at the BJCC, featuring Riley Green with Trea Landon and the Wilson Brothers Band as well as 2x World Champion Bull Rider Chris Shivers.
TWO Family 4 Pack Winners (4 tickets each) & TWO Ways to Win!
1.Sign Up for our E-newsletter at birminghamchristian.com
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Offer ends 8/20/18. Winners announced 8/21/18 on Facebook so be sure to LIKE our page!
- Tickets to Alabama Splash Adventure!
Follow us on Instagram @cfpBirmingham for a chance to receive TWO tickets to Alabama Splash Adventure! Enjoy a full day at the park that includes six new attractions. Tickets good through the 2018 summer season (September 3, 2018)!
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