The Connection Corner

The Blessing of Riding Shotgun

Daily Devotional, Lauren Kitchens-Steward

Ecclesiastes 3:11 (a) — He has made everything beautiful in its time.

Dear One, nobody tells you how fast it happens.

One day you’re wiping peanut butter off a tiny face, and the next she’s sitting across from you at breakfast—taller than she has any right to be.

That little girl with the dark, curly hair and those almond eyes that could undo your whole day with one smile? She’s sixteen now. Her words come quick, her opinions quicker, and Lord help us all if she’s decided you’re wrong.

One day you’re catching fireflies, and the next you’re hearing about the latest TikTok dances.

And you miss her. The small version of her. The one whose knees still fit under your chin when you hugged her tight.

You catch yourself trying to remember the last time you played on the swing set together. The last bedtime story. But the truth is, you didn’t mark the date—because you didn’t know it was the last.

For a while, you grieve the change. You tell yourself the sweetest days have passed.

But I’ve discovered something. God always has a way of trading one kind of good for another. And do you know what one of the best gifts of these teenage years is?

It’s the front seat.

The booster seat is gone, and she’s buckling herself in beside you. You drive her everywhere now—practice, youth group, late-night Chick-fil-A runs.

She fiddles with the radio, eats all your gum, and tells you about a funny meme or the kid who wore pajamas to math class. Sometimes she laughs so hard she can’t finish her sentence. Sometimes a good song comes on, and you both belt it out at the top of your lungs.

And every now and then, when I make her laugh, I see the same spark in those eyes I’ve loved since day one.

No, it’s not the swing set anymore, but it’s so good.

And I’m convinced—that’s the Lord.

Each season might feel like a goodbye, but He tucks goodness right into the middle of what’s next. You just have to climb in, buckle up, and let Him show you the upgrade.

August 16, 2025/by Lauren Kitchens-Steward

Lasting Lessons from Godly Leaders

Daily Devotional, Linda Meyers, Uncategorized

Hebrews 13:7 — “Remember your leaders, those who spoke to you the word of God. Consider the outcome of their way of life, and imitate their faith.”

The start of another school year always brings out the nostalgia in me. I love the smell of new pencils, fresh notebooks, and all the gizmos and gadgets that a new school year brings! It also reminds me of the important teachers who helped shape me in ways they may not have even realized.

Levi Kroeker was one such teacher. Though his name and nerdy glasses might have sparked some giggles, this man was always held in the highest regard.

You see, he was not only my middle school history teacher but also the principal.

His dual role could have been intimidating, and quite frankly it was! He was a tough teacher, yet students who went through his classes came out the other side with a new respect for him – both as a teacher and as the leader of our school. Despite his authoritative position, he had a unique ability to make his presence approachable and even endearing.

What truly symbolized his connection with us was his simple metal lunchbox. It told a thousand stories. It was adorned with a colorful array of stickers – each one representing a grateful student who had given him a sticker as a token of their love and respect for him.

When he passed away a few years ago, the gymnasium overflowed with students and alumni. The sheer number of people who came to pay their respects for the man with the lunchbox spoke volumes about the powerful mark he left on our lives.

As the new school year begins and fresh supplies fill the aisles, it is a perfect time to reflect on the mentors who have shaped your journey. Consider how their guidance aligns with the values taught in the Scriptures—kindness, integrity, and love.

Maybe this year you might take a moment to reach out and give your gratitude to those who have had an influence on your life and shaped you into the person you are today.

— Linda Meyers

August 15, 2025/by Linda Meyers

Comparison Kills Calling

Daily Devotional, Tammi Arender

Ephesians 2:10 — “For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.”

I have been reconnected lately with a few of my old high school classmates, and honestly, it has been a lot of fun. There is something sweet about reminiscing with people who remember your bad haircuts and awkward stage.

I graduated from Tallulah Academy. My class had twenty-seven people, so yes, when I say I finished fifth, it sounds great. But let’s be honest… fifth out of twenty-seven is not exactly a headline.

Still, for me, it’s more than just a number. It reminds me of a mindset people often fall into. The way we all kept score in high school. Who was the smartest? Who made the team? Who got invited where?

And it is funny how those habits follow us through life. The scoreboard just changes.

Now I catch myself comparing houses, talents, jobs, and ministries. I notice who gets more recognition. Who seems to have more influence? Who is moving faster? And that same quiet voice creeps in—”You are behind.”

I have looked around and wondered, “Why can’t I do what they do?

But here is the thing—I was never meant to be them. I was made to be Tammi.

God had a plan for me long before I knew how to spell my own name, and He did not get it wrong. He knew what He was doing.

So, friend, instead of keeping score or asking why you can’t do what someone else can, maybe ask this—”What has God put in me that only I can bring to the world?”

What lane has God put you in? That is not a mistake. It is a calling, and no one can run it quite like you can.

August 14, 2025/by Tammi Arender