Christian Living - Monica Ritchie

Christian Encouragement : A Checklist for Encouragers

July 13, 2021 by Monica Ritchie

There is a command throughout the Bible to encourage one another, to bless one another with Christian Encouragement. Here is somewhat of a “checklist” if you will, of how to offer Christian Encouragement! Build Each Other Up If you see something, say something! A spoken word of encouragement given at the “right time” can mean so much. It can push someone through a valley, or give joy to their spirit. You never know the impact of a kind and encouraging word. In today’s world maybe that doesn’t always mean saying it in person, maybe it’s a text, a phone call …

Three Characteristics of the Holy Spirit

July 7, 2021 by Monica Ritchie

Though there are many, let’s discuss three characteristics of the Holy Spirit you may not be aware of! The Holy Spirit is a member of the Trinity and often somewhat forgotten. This isn’t intentional but it’s certainly a challenge to wrap our minds around the Holy Spirit. That being said, the best way to get to know someone is to spend time with them. Let’s discuss three characteristics of the Holy Spirit you may or may not know! I pray it bring you to further worship the Triune God. Holy Spirit as Rauch Elohim This is one name of the …

Historical Theology : Augustine

May 27, 2021 by Monica Ritchie

Historical Theology is a big topic and I understand it may not be everyone’s passion. However, knowing the history of Christian Theologians can help us see that we’re not alone in some of our questions or struggles. God was faithful to reveal himself then and He is faithful now, too. Sifting through the years of theology we can not only use reason to confirm what we already believe by faith, but we can see the hand of God. God’s faithfulness showing up and revealing himself to each generation. Including Our own (and our kids) generations! God is a God of …

Cultivating Seasonal Living

November 18, 2020 by Monica Ritchie

God is not a God of confusion. Though he may call us into seasons of waiting, rest or stillness, we can remain strong in the Lord.

Justice?

September 2, 2020 by Monica Ritchie

There is a cry for justice in our culture. It is loud and it frankly is somewhat frightening. Take heart because here is what is true; Justice is a wonderful word. It is a character of God, it is who God is – He is JUST. Our culture’s cry for justice is truly a reflection of the heart for God in our nation. We can praise God for that. God is also mercy and grace, these characteristics of Himself all flow together in perfect harmony, working together to advance His Kingdom here on earth. I’ve been reminded in these days …

How to read the Bible with your kids

May 3, 2020 by Monica Ritchie

Have you ever wondered how to read the bible with your kids? You want to do it, but just aren’t sure how or where to start? Here a few simple tips on how to read the Bible with your kids! First, know this; you don’t have to be perfect! You don’t have to know all the answers to do this! My motto is this “do the best you can, when you can!” and that applies here too! Also, if you feel like your kiddo isn’t paying attention or is playing with a toy or is distracted during this, don’t worry! …

Fear the Fear

March 9, 2020 by Monica Ritchie

“I’m scared” She whispered to the dark. “I know. I’m here” The dark seemed to whisper back. There is nowhere you can go, there is nowhere you can walk – that He has not already been. If God is for you, who can be against you. I’ve been in this scenario numerous times. Whispering to the dark as I grasp for solid ground in my mind. Fighting what we all fight from time to time – fear. We all struggle with fear on some level or another and it can ebb and flow in seasons. However, at the root of …

In a world that increasingly values numbers; know that never determines your worth.

February 27, 2020 by Monica Ritchie

It’s not a matter of IF you’ll be tempted, it’s more a matter of WHEN. When that happens, how will you respond? In Matthew 4 before Jesus begins his earthly ministry, we see Jesus going out into the desert. It is here that he has fasted for 40 days and 40 nights. He is hungry. The tempter (ie Satan, the devil, the evil one) comes to him and tempts him. He says “turn these stones into bread” to that Jesus answers “It is written: Man does not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from God.” Jesus, …

Blooming in God’s Timing

February 7, 2020 by Monica Ritchie

I’ve been saying “no” to a lot of opportunities lately. A lot of really great opportunities. I have also been hearing “no” or “not yet” on a lot as well. That feels hard, it feels like rejection. It feels stagnant in an ever evolving space. But God is reminding me, much like I cannot force open the petals of my peonies to bloom, I cannot force open His plans or His timing for me. ‘Bloom where you’re planted’ is a popular mantra and typically, I’m not one to gravitate towards such things, however, this one, I’m digging into. I’m called …

Two Questions To Ask When Your Child Is Hurting

February 7, 2020 by Monica Ritchie

Question : When Does Momma Love you? Answer : All the time. Question : Who Loves you the most? Answer: Jesus As our kids get bigger, their hurts get bigger. They become more complex, more emotional. No less real of course, but feels different – bigger. And when your kid hurts, oh my, does it break a momma heart. 2 Here are two Questions to ask your kids when they’re hurting. 1. When does Momma love you? and I make them, I taught them to answer “All the time”. My hope is that this reminds them that when they hurt, …