In writing I have tried to be genuine, humble, and open to listening and learning from God. I also try to put the advice into practice by God’s grace and power. As a reader I hope you approach these notes the same way. I pray they bless you and inspire you to become all God has designed for you to be and to do for his glory. He believes in you and wants the best for you. So do I. The most valuable gift I can give is to build you and others up and to help you draw near to God through Jesus. In time I hope God becomes your closest friend, your brightest future, and your deepest love.
Your friend and teacher,
Greenelsh
141 Ask Where
As a high school teacher I field questions every day. I'm glad my students ask questions, because it is an effective way to learn and grow. Although some questions are more relevant or consequential than others, every sincere inquiry has merit. What have you been...
140 Walk Not Alone
It's been nearly a year since the high school where I teach has been closed to in-person learning due to the pandemic. I've been teaching all my students online. The social distancing and isolation policies mandated in the interest of public safety have taken a toll...
139 Choose to Love
Today is Valentine's Day when friends and lovers traditionally exchange notes, poems, cards, and tokens of affection. This afternoon I looked across the street to see that our elderly neighbor has decorated her front porch with red, white, and pink hearts. Streamers...
138 Die to Live
Today I watched a documentary about North Korea with my daughter. It was a part of a project her English teacher assigned to her. The film described the vital role propaganda has played in shaping North Koreans' view of their country and the rest of the world. In the...
137 Walk in the Light
I live in the United States and I am afflicted to see numerous leaders and countless citizens choosing to do wrong for their own benefit. This harms many people and threatens our freedom and our republic. This is not new or unique to my country. Most likely you are...
136 Learn from the Best
If you follow this podcast/blog you know that I teach visual arts and a few other subjects to high school students. In my lessons I often refer to other artists’ work or tutorials as examples of a particular technique. I enjoy learning from artists. In fact, I enjoy...
135 Dwell in the Right Shadow
This morning I was encouraged as I read Psalm 91 in the Bible. The book of Psalms contains songs, prayers, and poetry proclaiming the magnificence of God along with our need for him. It beautifully describes how God created and reigns over the universe and yet wants...
134 Take Responsible Risks
As you reflect on the turbulent year of 2020 and look toward 2021, what do you hope will happen? Do you have any new year's resolutions? Whatever the future holds, I'm sure it will involve risk. Whether you are reacting to circumstances or proactively trying to foster...
133 Be in Christ
At the end of a year like 2020 it might not seem like there is much to celebrate at Christmas, but there is. Despite difficult times we are still incredibly blessed. At Christmas we are reminded of God's greatest blessing—the gift of God the Son, Jesus, who...
132 Fight Fatigue
As 2020 comes to a close, do you feel worn out? Has this year taken a toll on you and your loved ones? Maybe you are looking forward to next year being better. Perhaps you're waiting for a safe and effective COVID-19 vaccine or a change in government. Perhaps you...