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Revolutionary, Military Wife, and Woman of Faith: Martha Washington’s Story

Join our Director of Publishing, Morgan Farr, as she shares Revolutionary, Military Wife, and Woman of Faith: Martha Washington’s Story in this Women of the Word Wednesday post.  Revolutionary, Military…

From Military Kid to Christian Martyr: The Story of Perpetua.

Join our Publishing Director Morgan Farr as she shares From Military Kid to Christian Martyr: The Story of Perpetua.  From Military Kid to Christian Martyr: The Story of Perpetua.  …

Giving Honor Where it is Due: Celebrating the Military Family

Join guest writer Jackie Hawkins as she shares about Giving Honor Where it is Due: Celebrating the Military Family.  Giving Honor Where it is Due: Celebrating the Military Family by…

Money Matters, Management, and Military Life

Join guest writer Courtney as she shares about Money Matters, Management, and Military Life. Money Matters, Management, and Military Life By Courtney  Money problems are one of the leading causes…

Julia Compton Moore: Names, Legacy, and Moore

Join our Director of Leadership Development, Brenda Pace, as she shares about Julia Compton Moore: Names, Legacy, and Moore. Julia Compton Moore: Names, Legacy, and Moore by Brenda Pace Driving…

Give Greatly: Joy in Generosity, Giving, and Gratitude

Join Publishing Director Morgan Farr as she explores the impact of generously through Give Greatly: Joy in Generosity, Giving, and Gratitude. Give Greatly: Joy in Generosity, Giving, and Gratitude by…

Sexual Health: Porn, Problems, and Personhood

 Join Publishing Director Morgan Farr as she explores the detrimental effects of pornography use in her article Sexual Health: Porn, Problems, and Personhood. Sexual Health: Porn, Problems, and Personhood by…

Bathsheba: Lust, Sin, and Redemption in Military Life

Join Publishing Director Morgan Farr as she shares the lasting impact of Bathsheba: Lust, Sin, and Redemption in Military Life.   Bathsheba: Lust, Sin, and Redemption in Military Life by Morgan…

Sexual Health: Trauma, Shame, and Healing

Join our Deputy Director of Publishing Kelli Baker, as she talks us through Sexual Health: Trauma, Shame, and Healing. ***trigger warning*** This article contains talk of sexual assault and trauma….

Sexual Health: Untangling the Truth From Lies

Join Michelle Hieb, Director of Spiritual Development for Planting Roots, as she shares the importance of Sexual Health: Untangling the Truth From Lies.  Sexual Health: Untangling the Truth From Lies…

Tips and Tricks from Military Moms for Back-To-School 

Tips and Tricks from Military Moms for Back-To-School is the second in a two-part series by Stephanie Ward to help parents navigate the complexities of back-to-school in military life. Read…

Natasha Sistrunk Robinson: Marine, Servant, Educator

Join Deputy Director of Publishing Kelli Baker as she shares about Natasha Sistrunk Robinson: Marine, Servant, Educator. Natasha Sistrunk Robinson: Marine, Servant, Educator by Kelli Baker   An abolitionist of our…

Preparing Military Kids for a Successful School Year

Preparing Military Kids for a Successful School Year is a two-part series written by Stephanie Ward to help parents navigate the complexities of back-to-school- in military life. Preparing Military Kids for…

Online Safety: Guidelines, Resilience, and Protection 

Join Morgan Farr as she shares Online Safety: Guidelines, Resilience, and Protection to prevent cyberbullying and protect military kids from online predators. Online Safety: Guidelines, Resilience, and Protection  by Morgan…

Katherine of Aragon: Military Wife of Unwavering Faith

Join Publishing Director Morgan Farr as she shares about Katherine of Aragon: Military Wife of Unwavering Faith and how she impacted Christian and military cultures.  Katherine of Aragon: Military Wife…

Life As We Know It: Safety In An Online World

Join guest writer Stephanie N. Boatman as she shares tips for life as we know it, creating safety in an online world. Life As We Know It: Safety In An…

PTSD: Combat, Military Marriage, and the Bible

Join Rachelle Whitfield as she tells us about PTSD: Combat, Civilians, and What the Bible Says. PTSD: Combat, Military Marriage, and the Bible by Rachelle Whitfield PTSD is an acronym…

Betty Greene: The Female Missionary Pilot

Join Deputy Director of Publishing Kelli Baker as she shares about Betty Greene, the female missionary pilot during World War II. Betty Greene: The Female Missionary Pilot  Betty began her…

PTSD: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly

This week, join Megan Rivera as she talks about PTSD: the good, the bad, and the ugly… and God’s faithfulness through it all. PTSD: The Good, the Bad, and the…

When Trauma Strikes

Today Michelle Hieb walks us through how to handle life when trauma strikes using the power of prayer, the gift of therapy, and counting on your community.  When Trauma Strikes…

Food Insecurity in Our Ranks: its Effects on Mission Readiness

Join Deputy Director of Publishing Kelli Baker as she discusses food insecurity in our ranks and its effects on mission readiness. Food Insecurity in Our Ranks: its Effects on Mission…

Colonel Collins: Military Kid, Pilot, and Astronaut

Join Publishing Director Morgan Farr as she shares the lasting impact of Colonel Collins: military kid, pilot, and astronaut.  Colonel Collins: Military Kid, Pilot, and Astronaut by Morgan D. Farr…

Gaining Wisdom: Military Women’s Mental Health

Join Dr. Sharita Knobloch as she shares about Gaining Wisdom in Military Women’s Mental Health. Gaining Wisdom: Military Women’s Mental Health by: Dr. Sharita Knobloch Some folks say wisdom “appears”…

Faith Full Friday: Women’s Health Month

Today Morgan Farr introduces our theme for May on our Faith Full Friday series: Women’s Health Month! Faith Full Friday: Women’s Health Month by Morgan Farr Does anyone else have…

A Letter to My Military Child

Join Lisa Redford as she shares A Letter to My Military Child to close out our celebration of The Month of the Military Child. A Letter to My Military Child…

Military Parenting Means Teaching Community

Join us as Morgan Farr shares why military parenting means teaching community. Military Parenting Means Teaching Community by Morgan Farr  April is a special time in the military community. This…

Dr. Mary Walker: Doctor, Advocate, and First of a Kind

Join Morgan Farr as she shares why all military women should know about Dr. Mary Walker: Doctor, Advocate, and the First of a Kind. Dr. Mary Walker: Doctor, Advocate, and…

Survival Mode Should Include Supper

Welcome to our Faith Full Friday celebration of the Month of the Military Child! Today we join Andrea Plotner as she reminds us why survival mode should include supper for…

Faith Full Friday: Month of the Military Child

Today Morgan Farr introduces our theme for April on our Faith Full Friday series: The Month of the Military Child! Faith Full Friday: Month of the Military Child by Morgan…

Women’s History Month Resource List

Join Morgan Farr as she shares our Women’s History Month Resource List and why it matters for military women. Women’s History Month Resource List by Morgan Farr Women’s History Month…

Heart Healthy Relationships Resource List

Today we want to share our Heart Healthy Relationships Resource List to help you learn to keep your heart healthy. Heart Healthy Relationships Resource List by Planting Roots Hearts Healthy…

Open Your Heart to His Appointments

Join Stephanie Ward as she shared how God used a garage door to open her tired, walled-off heart to his heart appointments. Open Your Heart to His Appointments by Stephanie…

Sojourner Truth: Abolitionist and Advocate

Kelli Baker shares the incredible story of Sojourner Truth, the abolitionist and advocate. ***Trigger warning: sexual assault and abuse is mentioned in this article.*** Sojourner Truth: Abolitionist and Advocate by…

A Healthy Heart Needs Forgiveness

This month our topic for Faith Full Friday is Heart Health. Join Megan Rivera as she walks us through keeping our hearts healthy with frequent forgiveness.   A Healthy Heart Needs…

Faith Full Friday: Heart Health

Join Morgan Farr as we introduce our Faith Full Friday topic for February: Heart Health. Faith Full Friday: Heart Health  by Morgan Farr With the start of a new year,…

Women’s Empowerment Resource List

Today we want to share our Women’s Empowerment Resource List to help you learn more about your identity in Christ.    Women’s Empowerment Resource List by Planting Roots Women in…

Living Out Empowerment Through Our Identity in Christ 

Join Kelli as she walks us through living out empowerment through our identity in Christ.  Living Out Empowerment Through Our Identity in Christ  by Kelli Baker  Last week, we discussed…

Deborah the Judge, Prophetess, Warrior, and Mother in Israel

On today’s Woman of the Word Wednesday, Kelli shares the story of Deborah, the judge, prophetess, warrior, and mother in Israel. Deborah the Judge, Prophetess, Warrior, and Mother in Israel…

Finding Empowerment Through Identity in Christ

Finding empowerment through our identity in Christ has Kelli taking us back to the Creation story in part one of this two-part article on Women’s Empowerment. Finding Empowerment Through Our…

Women’s Empowerment & Identity in Christ

Morgan kicks off our Faith Full Friday series with a bang as she introduces our topic for the month, women’s empowerment and how it relates to our identity in Christ. …

Holiday Traditions: Epiphany for Military Families

Jennifer Wake shares how military families can use holiday traditions like Epiphany to remember that God is in control. Holiday Traditions: Epiphany for Military Families by Jennifer Wake  Holiday Traditions…

Faith Full Friday: A New Series from Planting Roots

The vision of Planting Roots is for military women and wives to be deeply rooted in Christ, no matter where they find themselves. One way that we do that is…

Holiday Traditions: Music for Epiphany

Jennifer Wake shares how holiday traditions use music to teach us the foundations of our faith in the twelve days from Christmas to Epiphany. Holiday Traditions: Music for Epiphany by…

Holiday Traditions: Christmas Day to Epiphany

Today, Jennifer Wake shares her family’s holiday traditions the time from Christmas Day to Epiphany. In her family traditions, we are reminded of the facts of our faith. Holiday Traditions:…

Christmas is Here, the Wait is Over!

In this Christmas post, Megan Rivera reminds us that Christmas is here and the wait for God’s incredible plan is over! Christmas is Here, the Wait is Over! by Megan…

The Women Who Came Before Jesus

For this Christmas edition of Women of the Word Wednesday, we are taking a look at the women who came before Jesus, the unnamed mothers of Christianity.  The Women Who…

Anticipation, Preparation, and Observance of Advent

Advent, the word advent means the arrival of something or someone. Anticipation, preparation, and observance of Advent vary by denomination. But no matter the denomination, we all anticipate Christ’s birth,…

Moina Belle Michael: Military Child, Wartime Volunteer, and Poppy Lady

There a some people that make a difference in military life without ever donning a uniform. This is the case for Moina Belle Michael, the Ivy League-educated military child and…

Courage Counts: Happy Birthday Marines!

Honor. Courage. Commitment. The core values of Marines have given words to the creed they have lived by since 1775. Marine legends like Smedley Butler and Chesty Puller built careers…

God Cares for the Military Family

God cares for the military family and military children. They are precious to him. Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the…

Happy Reformation Day!

It is that time of year when cool breezes start to roll in, the days get a little shorter, and everyone is looking forward to their favorite autumn things. One…

Betty Ford: Military Wife and Awareness Advocate

In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, this month’s featured Woman of the Word is Betty Ford, who was a Breast Cancer and Addiction Awareness Advocate when both phrases were…

Happy Birthday Navy

As we wish the Navy happy birthday today, it seems appropriate to talk about the use of maritime culture help to increase our understanding of several Biblical stories and principles…

Grace Seibold: Gold Star Mother

Women have been affiliated with the military throughout history. Women of the Word Wednesday is where we explore the impact of Christian women affiliated with the military. Today’s Woman of…

Amanda Berry Smith: Army Wife, Preacher, International Missionary

Amanda Berry Smith is this month’s featured Woman of the Word. She was an Army Wife, Preacher, and International Missionary. Amanda Berry Smith: Army Wife, Preacher, and International Missionary  by…

Women of The Word Wednesday Introduction

We are excited to share with you a new weekly feature:  Women of the Word Wednesday. As women in the military community, it is easy to feel like we don’t…

God’s Faithfulness in 2021

The Planting Roots Director, Kori, shares some inspiring words about God’s faithfulness to close out 2021.   God’s Faithfulness in 2021 by Kori Yates   And I told them of…

The Christ Candle

Today we light the final candle of the Advent Season.  The Christ Candle is the  white candle in the center symbolizing purity, just like the spotless Lamb of God. The…

The Season of Love

This week on Firmly Rooted Friday we have a guest writer, Jennifer Benitez.  Jennifer reminds us of the most important gift of all, “LOVE”. The season of LOVE … The…

The Love Candle

We continue our celebration and preparation as Jennifer Wake walks us through the lighting of the four Advent. This week she shares the meaning of the Love  candle or the…

It’s the season of JOY

Denise Jolly joins us for Firmly Rooted Friday with a reminder that it’s the season of Joy and reminds us to count it all joy. It’s the season of JOY…let…

The Joy Candle

  We continue our celebration and preparation as Jennifer Wake walks us through the lighting of the four Advent. This wee she shares the meaning of the Joy candle. The…

Peace on the Earth

Today on Firmly Rooted Friday, Morgan Farr reminds us how we find peace all year round not just during the Advent season. Peace on the Earth by Morgan Farr What…

When Past Sins Haunt You

When past sins haunt you it can feel like you’ve been knocked down. Ashley shares some tips for how to rise up in today’s Monday Minute. When Past Sins Haunt…

The Faith Candle

We continue our celebration and preparation as Jennifer Wake walks us through the lighting of our second candle of Advent, the Faith Candle. The Faith Candle by Jennifer Wake  …

When God Steps into Hope

Today on Firmly Rooted Fridays we have a special Advent edition.  Writer, Michelle Hieb reminds us of the unbelievable possibilities when God Steps in to our Hope. When God Steps…

The Prophecy Candle, “Hope”

Jennifer Wake walks us through lighting the first candle of Advent, the Prophecy Candle of “Hope”. The Prophecy Candle of Hope by Jennifer Wake Whenever I enter a church after…

Introduction to Advent

Welcome to an Introduction to Advent.  Jennifer shares with us the true reason we celebrate and the meaning behind the symbolism. This is one tradition military families can participate in…

What Crouches at Your Door?

No matter what is crouching at your door, Muriel has some ways to rise up from all that threatens you in today’s Monday Minute. What Crouches at Your Door?  by…

A Military Family’s Adoption Story

For this week’s Firmly Rooted Friday, Lisa shares God’s faithfulness through her military family’s adoption story. A Military Family’s Adoption Story by Lisa Redford November is National Adoption Awareness Month,…

Rise Up from Difficult Family Situations

Difficult family situations. It would be rare not to have them, especially when military families spend so much time geographically separated from their families of origin. In today’s Monday Minute…

When You are Apart

As military women, we are far too familiar with being separated from our loved ones geographically. But Jolynn reminds us in today’s military that geography isn’t what makes intimacy. She…

Rise Up From Loneliness

I’ve never met a military woman or spouse who hasn’t battled loneliness at some point in their journey. Brenda gives us all some encouraging and practical wisdom to rise up…

Living in the Messy Middle

Most of us military women can relate to the idea of living in the messy middle. We always seem to be in the middle of something–deployment, PCS, leave time, or…

Rise Up Above Disagreements

Disagreements seem to have become the norm these days, even within our tight-knit military communities. Muriel challenges us to season those heated discussions with salt and rise up above them….

Persecution and the American Military

Persecution has always been the enemy of freedom and as military women and wives we are charged with defending against it. Stephanie’s Monday Minute challenges us with three practical ways…

Miscarriage in the Military Community

Have you experienced the pain of miscarriage? Odds are, if you have not, someone in your inner circle has. In today’s Firmly Rooted post, Morgan shares some practical tips for…

Rise Up from Unmet Expectations

Unmet expectations seem to run rampant in the military community. So how do we rise up and resume our mission when they knock us down? Brenda has some encouraging truths…

God Gives Clarity, Not Confusion

God gives clarity, not confusion. Even during deployments. Ashley shares with us her personal experience with watching God smooth out the details on both sides of a deployment, both Servicemember…

Do You Control Your Money?

Do you control your money? Or does your money control you? For today’s Finance Friday, Jennifer shares some budgeting tips to help you maintain proper control of your money. Who…

When You’re Unequally Yoked

Being in an unequally yoked marriage can make you feel like you’re getting knocked down day after day. But in today’s Monday Minute, Rachelle shares some encouraging truths and powerful…

How To Finance Future Dreams

Do you ever wonder how you’ll finance future dreams when it always feels like you’re barely making ends meet? In today’s Finance Friday article, Jennifer shares some expert information on…

Rise Up from Disagreement

Disagreement abounds these days. But Muriel’s wise advice in this week’s Monday Minute, reminds us that God has called us to something higher. Blessed Are the Peacemakers by Muriel Gregory…

The Crippling Fear of Rejection

Have you faced the crippling fear of rejection? You are not alone. For this week’s Monday Minute, Kelli shares some encouraging truths to help you fight the fear of rejection…

Christian Military Women’s Conference

This week our Events Team has taken over our social media, and Kasey shares what it meant to her, as a woman in uniform, to attend a Christian, Military, Women’s…

Rise Up Despite Divorce

Is it possible to rise up despite divorce? Whether divorce has impacted our own marriage or that of someone we care about, Kori provides us all with some encouraging truth…

A Life’s Calling

We often hear people talk about their life’s calling? Do you know yours? In this week’s Monday Minute, Tonia shares some encouraging truths for us all as we seek to…

Who Am I Now?

When major changes happen, we often ask ourselves, “Who am I now?” In this week’s Monday Minute, Kelli share what God taught her about who she is and will always…

Who do I want to be?

Who do I want to be when I grow up? In this week’s Monday Minute, Rachelle encourages us to use this question to rise up from disappointments, grief, PCS moves,…

The Others

Jesus loved the others. In today’s Monday Minute, Muriel challenges us to rise up and reach out to the marginalized within our communities. The Others by Muriel Gregory   My…

Defending Your Finances

Defending your finances is harder than ever before in this digital age. For today’s Finance Friday, Jennifer shares some strategies to help keep your money safe. Don’t miss her unhackable…

Combat Satan’s Suicidal Lies

The lies Satan tries to tell us all too often turn into suicidal thoughts. But you can combat them with God’s truth. Combat Satan’s Suicidal Lies with God’s Truth by…

Suicide in the Military Community

Suicide is an all too common reality in the military community. In this week’s Monday Minute, Ashley bravely shares how God revealed his reality in her lowest moments to help…

God Can Heal PTSD

The military community is far too familiar with the adverse impacts of PTSD. In this week’s Monday Minute, Ashley bravely shares how she knows God can heal PTSD. God Can…

Airing Up Mental Health

Mental Health is a hot topic in both military circles and among our civilian counterpart. And with good reason. We’ve faced unprecedented challenges in the last 18 months. Guest writer,…

When Joy is Fleeting

When joy is fleeting it can be hard to rise up and take your place at the wall. In this week’s Monday Minute, Muriel shares how God has helped her…

Faith to Overcome Anxiety in Military Life

Anxiety in military life is common and it can knock us to our knees. In this week’s Monday Minute, Ginger shares how God helped her rise up and overcome it…

Financial Advice for Caregivers

Are you a caregiver for a parent or grandparent? Unfortunately, that demographic is often the target for financial fraud. This month’s Financial Friday is chock-full of financial advice for caregivers….

Man’s Rejection, God’s Protection

Rejection in the military can come from a variety of sources. In this week’s Monday Minute, Liz encourages us to rise up above man’s rejection by looking for God’s protection…

Peacemakers in an Age of Outrage

For this week’s Monday Minute, Muriel challenges us to rise up above this age of outrage and become peacemakers as we follow Jesus’ lead. Peacemakers in an Age of Outrage…

Through the Struggle

PCS season is upon us and, whether it is your first move or your 15th, you know you’ll go through the struggle. But this week’s guest writer, Marian, encourages us…

When Someone Else Gets Credit

We’ve all been there; someone else gets credit for the work we’ve done. But how are we, as Christian women to respond to this scenario, one that is all too…

Rise Up from Failure

Failure can feel like a fate worse than death in the military work place. In this week’s Monday Minute Ashley encourages us to take a more eternal look at it….

Saving for Christmas in June

Saving for Christmas in June may seem like a funny thing to do, but in this week’s Finance Friday, Jennifer shares why saving money is serious business. Saving for Christmas…

Change of Plans

For this week’s Monday Minute, Liz shares how every change of plans is an opportunity to exchange our plans for God’s plans. Change of Plans by Liz Giertz   Those…

Transition and the Tie that Binds

For this week’s Firmly Rooted Friday, guest writer Amalee shares with us the comfort of the tie that binds. We can all be thankful God makes this available to us…

Rely On God Even Through Change

All this month we’ve been looking at ways we can rise up when military transitions and changes knock us down. For this week’s Monday Minute, Ashley shares with us how…

Blended Retirement System Options

In this week’s edition of Finance Friday, Jennifer breaks down Blended Retirement System Options for military members. Blended Retirement System Options by Jennifer Wake   Choices are all around us….

Saying Goodbye to Your Tribe

Saying goodbye to your tribe is something military women are all too familiar with, but Melissa shares some comforting truths about how God helps us rise up. Saying Goodbye to…

Now What… Military Retirement

Military Retirement is among the most challenging changes military members can face. But Muriel shares how God showed her how to rise up when the weight of this transition threatens…

Saving For College

Military members have some additional options when it comes to saving for college. In this week’s Finance Friday post, Jennifer breaks 5 options down for us. Saving for College by…

Leaving a Child Behind When You PCS

Like Jennifer, so many military women know the pain of leaving a child behind when you PCS. If you’re navigating this significant change, I hope you’ll find comfort in the…

Placing My Children on the Altar

Placing our children on the altar is a concept nearly every mother wrestles with at some point or another. Guest writer and uniformed military woman, Claire P. Jameson penned this…

Healthy Ways to Handle Trauma

Military women are not immune to the unwanted advances of men. In this week’s honest and raw post, Lydiaruth shares with us some healthy ways to handle trauma by leaning…

God’s Presence Heals Our Pain

In this week’s Monday Minute, Kelli shares how God’s presence heals our pain, even the pain of miscarriage. Somewhere Over the Rainbow by Kelli Baker   Stationed in Germany for…

Teaching Children Repentance

In today’s Firmly Rooted Friday post, Claudia reinforces the importance of teaching children repentance. It may be hard, but it is worth it in the long run. Teaching Children Repentance…

For The Christian Woman Considering Military Service

Are you a Christian woman considering Military Service? Our next encouraging post in this special series dedicated to the Month of the Military Child comes from a young woman who…

Prodigal: Coming to the End of Ourselves

For this week’s Monday Minute, Muriel talks about how we are all prodigal children and that coming to the end ourselves is the best thing God can let happen to…

My Military Family

In this week’s special guest post, Lydiaruth talks about what it means to her to have a strong military family to support her through her father’s service and deployments. My…

When Military Children Suffer

We often see military children suffer because of a parent’s service, but in this week’s Monday Minute, Stephanie challenges us to look for how God is using that suffering to…

Paying for College

Jennifer discusses paying for college in this month’s Financial Friday post. Don’t miss part two, saving for college next month! Paying for College  by Jennifer Wake Wait a minute, just…

To Be A Military Kid

For, April, the Month of the Military Child, we are running a special Wednesday series written by a guest writer who is a military kid. We hope you enjoy this…

The Ache of Infertility

For this week’s Monday Minute Jennifer shares with us some ways we can rise up from the ache of infertility. Rise Up from the Ache of Infertility by Jennifer Wake…

The Reality of Death and Resurrection

There is no better day than Good Friday to discuss the reality of death and resurrection. In today’s post, Tonia challenges us not to ignore it, but to embrace the…

Healthy After the Military

For this week’s Monday Minute, Ashley shares her journey with staying healthy after the military. Healthy After the Military by Ashley Saulnier   5 a.m., the alarm goes off.  Turn…

When Doubt Knocks You Down

You have probably experienced a moment or two when doubt knocks you down. We all have. For this week’s Monday Minute, Michelle shares how God helped her rise up after…

Change Your Mind, Heal Your Body

Do you want to heal your body? This week, Kelli shares how God led her on a journey to heal her body by changing her mind as she pursues health…

Resting In God

For this week’s Monday Minute, Kelli shares with us the importance of resting in God so that we can rise up and serve him well! Resting In God by Kelli…

Health for the Whole Self

Finding health for the whole self can be particularly difficult for military women. In today’s post, Kelli shares how God directed her journey toward that end-state.  Health for the Whole…

The Gift of Physical Fitness

For this week’s Monday Minute, Kori shares how God showed her the importance of stewarding the gift of physical fitness. The Gift of Physical Fitness by Kori Yates At twenty-one,…

Survivor Benefits Plan: What You Need to Know

For this week’s Financial Friday, Jennifer shares what you need to know about the Survivor Benefits Plan. Survivor Benefits Plan: What You Need to Know by Jennifer Wake What is…

The Emotions We Hide

For this week’s Monday Minute, Muriel shares with us how the emotions we hide beneath the surface can impact our health and how we can rise up and heal. The…

Taxes: When Caesar Gets His Share

Taxes have been causing trouble since the time of Jesus’ earthly ministry.  For this week’s Monday Minute, Jennifer explores how we can Rise Up when taxes try to knock us…

Learn from My Money Mishaps

Today, Jennifer shares lessons learned from money mishaps. Her tips can help you avoid similar mistakes and help you steward your resources well. Learn from My Money Mishaps by Jennifer…

Is Enough Really Enough?

For this week’s Monday Minute, Ashley shares what God has been teaching her about the secret to having enough.   Is Enough Really Enough? by Ashley Saulnier    As a…

Finding Purpose in Your Work

Do you struggle to find purpose in your work? For this week’s Monday Minute, Liz shares how God’s purposes for our work are far more valuable than just a paycheck….

When Tithing Feels Like Too Much

For today’s Monday Minute, Jennifer touches on tithing. Find out how God changed her mind and proved himself faithful in her family’s finances.   When Tithing Feels Like Too Much…

Raise a Hallelujah

In today’s Monday Minute with God, Muriel shares with us how important it is to raise a hallelujah, even when life pulls the rug out from under us. Raise a…

We Can’t Do It Alone

In much the same way that a tree is not a forest, we can’t do it alone. To rise up and overcome life’s challenges, we need a forest of support….

When Life Pulls the Rug Out From Under You

For this week’s Monday Minute, Muriel shares three strategies for how to RISE UP when life pulls the rug out from under you. When Life Pulls the Rug Out From…

Rise Up in 2021

Join Kori Yates, Planting Roots Director, as she introduces our 2021 theme: Rise Up, based on Nehemiah 2:18 Rise Up by Kori Yates “And I told them of the hand…

The Importance of Passing the Peace

For the final Monday Minute of 2020, Brenda Pace, Planting Roots Senior Advisor, shares the importance of passing the peace. Together, let’s share the evidence of lives lived as followers…

Count the Cost

For today’s Monday Minute, Muriel shares with us what it means to count the cost as we begin to follow Jesus with a missional mindset in the military. Count the…

On Mission Together

In today’s Monday Minute, Planting Roots Director, Kori Yates, shares about how being on mission together isn’t only more fun, but crucial to our walk with Christ. On Mission Together…

Marching Toward Revival

This week, we are joined by guest, Ashley, who encourages us all to keep marching toward revival all the way to the ends of the Earth. We military women know…

Missional Mindset in the Military

Can you have a missional mindset in the military? Here at Planting Roots we believe it is not only possible, but that God has planned it that way. Kasey kicks…

The Real Enemy

The real enemy rears his ugly head whenever there is a revival among God’s people, so it is fitting that we end our month of growing together for revival with…

10 Ways to Celebrate Jesus at Christmas

This week, we are joined by guest, Beth Runkle who shares with us 10 practical ways to celebrate Jesus at Christmas, no matter where you’re stationed. A Life-Giving Christmas: 10…

Essential Requirements for Revival

As we continue our growing together for revival series this month, Jennifer shares with us some essential requirements for revival we all need whether we share the gospel in daily…

When You Long to be Home

As a military woman, you have more than likely experienced a holiday season when you long to be home. We know what that’s like, but we also know the Psalms…

Hope Because God Restores

And For this week’s Monday Minute, Kelli brings a powerful message about how no matter what we face in this world, we always have hope because God restores. Please be…

Jesus is Coming Again

As we continue our series on Growing Together for revival, Rose’s post shares how remembering Jesus is coming again helps us keep an eternal perspective. That eternal perspective can be…

Feelings of Loss Over the Holidays

If we’re honest, most of us have feelings of loss over the holidays this year. Join Kristin for some encouragement from the Psalms as we head into this holiday season…

The Call to Personal Revival

Brenda kicks off this month’s series on Growing Together for Revival with this call to personal revival in today’s Monday Minute. The Call to Personal Revival by Brenda Pace Military…

Sharing Christ in Daily Life

Kelli shares three tips for sharing Christ in daily life, in this last installment of our series on growing together the share the Gospel. Sharing Christ in Daily Life by…

Living as Salt and Light

Have you ever wondered what it means to be living as salt and light in a military context? In this week’s Monday Minute, Brenda breaks it down for us as…

Simple Ways to Share Christ Wherever the Military Sends You

Ginger shares some simple ways to share Christ wherever the Military sends us, as we continue our Monday Minute discussion on growing together to spread the Gospel. Simple Ways to…

Stories of Hope Despite Racism

In our final week of our series on Racism in the Military Community, Planting Roots staff members share a stories of hope despite racism and how they have seen Jesus…

Go Tell it on the Mountains

In this week’s Monday Minute, Muriel encourages us to go tell it on the mountains, as she kicks off our month-long discussion about growing together to spread the Gospel. Go…

Heartbreaking Racism Stories

This week Planting Roots staff members discuss their most heartbreaking racism stories as part of our series on Racism in the Military Community. Question 4: Share a story that breaks…

When I am a Part of the Body of Christ

For this week’s Monday Minute, Claudia shares with us why it is important that we all participates a part of the body of Christ. When I am a Part of…

How to Encourage Diversity in the Military Community

As we continue our discussion on racism in the military community, Planting Roots staff members share their suggestions for how to encourage diversity in the military community. Question #3: How…

Actions Speak Louder Than Words

For this week’s Monday Minute, Jennifer reminds us that while it is often said actions speak louder than words, we need to use our words to share the Gospel. Actions…

Not Seeing Color

Our Planting Roots volunteer staff members discuss the idea of not seeing color as we continue our discussion on racism in the military community. You can read their backstories here….

Do Not Forsake Meeting Together

In this week’s Monday Minute, Muriel encourages us to find new and creative ways of meeting together despite our current circumstances. Meeting Together Despite Our Altered Reality by Muriel Gregory…

Racial Integration in Military Community

As we continue our series on Racism in the Military Community, this week we are discussing racial integration in the military community. Last week you had the opportunity to meet…

Go To Church

For this week’s Monday Minute, Kristin shares with us why it is vital for believers to go to church. Go to Church or Chapel NOW! by Kristin Goodrich BLUF (Bottom…

Racism in the Military Community

Here at Planting Roots, our vision is that military women will be deeply rooted in Christ. In order to encourage and equip our community, we have fun with inter-service rivalries,…

We Are Family

We are family. For this week’s Monday Minute, Muriel shows us the gift we Christians have of participating in a God-given family of believers. We Are Family by Muriel Gregory…

Infant Loss Amid Military Life

Andrea shares about the unexpected blessings she experienced during her family’s infant loss amid military life in this final installment of her four-part series on parenting. Don’t miss a single…

Grow Together by Serving

For this week’s Monday Minute, Michelle challenges us to grow together by serving one another. Grow Together by Serving By Michelle Hieb   Service–it’s the very lifeblood of the military…

Parent Like an Olive Grower

Join us for the Andrea’s third installment, Parent Like and Olive Grower, in her series on parenting amid military life. Don’t miss the first two weeks: Raising Young Men Amid…

Develop Your Leadership Style

For this week’s Monday Minute, Kelli shares with us some tips she learned while on active duty and from the Bible to help you develop your leadership style. Develop Your…

Raising Pre-Teen Boys Amid Military Life

Raising Pre-Teen boys can be hard enough, but the challenges of military life complicate things even more. Andrea is back this week with her second installment of Raising Young Men…

Why Group Bible Study Matters

Have you ever wondered if group Bible Study really matters? For this week’s Monday Minute, Kori shares with us three key elements of why group Bible study matters. Relationship, Encouragement,…

Raising Young Men Amid Military Life

For this month’s series, Andrea shares with us some lessons she learned while raising young men amid military life. This week’s post focuses on the younger years. Don’t miss her…

Growing Together in Leadership

This month we are discussing growing together in Ministry. Brenda kicks us off with today’s Monday Minute on growing together in leadership. Growing Together in Leadership by Brenda Pace  …

The Art of Spiritual Accountability

In this week’s Monday Minute, Liz shares how the art of spiritual accountability enhances our readiness to stand firm in the face of Satan’s schemes. Don’t miss the downloadable tool…

Peace Despite Miscarriage in Military Life

This week’s post on finding peace despite miscarriage is Denise’s third in this series on miscarriage in the military. Be sure to read the first two parts of her story: …

Unlikely Battle Buddies

In this week’s Monday Minute, Rachelle shares with us the power of unlikely battle buddies. Who has God placed in your life for you to encourage? Unlikely Battle Buddies by…

Miscarriage in Military Life: Load Bearers

This is the second installment of our three part series on Miscarriage in Military Life by Denise. She shares God’s faithfulness to provide load bearers to help them carry the…

How to Find Your People

For this week’s Monday Minute, Kelli shares with us some important tips for how to find your people. Whether you are PCSing this summer or not, this is great advice!…

Miscarriage in Military Life

Today we kick off a three week series about miscarriage in military life. Denise shares her personal pain and God’s faithfulness in a relatable way that will encourage anyone walking…

Where is Your Point of Reference

In this week’s Monday Minute, Muriel shares how important having Jesus as our point of reference is for military life. Where is Your Point of Reference by Muriel Gregory  …

One Key Habit of Bible Study

For this week’s Monday Minute, special guests Margaret and Rose share with us one key habit of Bible Study they have learned as they have studied Scripture together through the…

What Happens After Hello

What happens after hello? With PCS season upon us meeting new military friends is inevitable. Reserve spouse and guest writer, Amanda Mahannah, shares with us four ways God helps her…

Growth Through God’s Word

Join Denise Jolly for this week’s Thursday Prayer as she prays for our growth through God’s Word. Your Word Brings a Harvest of Growth  by Denise Jolly   “For the…

When Everything Changes

For this week’s Worship Wednesday, Liz shares how God’s Word comforts us when everything changes. Does it seem to you like change is the only constant in this military lifestyle?…

Fresh Faith in Challenging Times

For this week’s Monday Minute, Katye shares with us how God answered her plea for fresh faith in challenging times as she studied his Word. What challenges are you facing?…

Military Marriage Prayer

For this week’s Thursday Prayer, join Kay Miller in this military marriage prayer today. Military Marriage Prayer by Katy Miller   Heavenly Father,   Thank you for all that you…

God’s Word: Living And Active

We have two special guests for this week’s Monday Minute who are sharing about how God’s Word is Living and Active, just like PT. God’s Word: Living and Active By…

Eyes on Him

God wants us to keep our eyes on him. But this military lifestyle provides us no shortage of opportunities to compare our experiences to those of the men and women…

Praying with Deuteronomy

Join Tonia for this week’s Thursday Prayer in praying with Deuteronomy. Praying Scripture is a powerful discipline. Praying with Deuteronomy 6:4-7 (NIV) Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the…

In This All Together

For this week’s Worship Wednesday, new staff writer Kelli Baker shares what God is teaching her about being in the trenches of the Covid crisis all together. In This All…

Meditation is for Christians

In this week’s Monday Minute, Muriel shares with us how the discipline of meditation is for Christians, too. As military women we understand the power of discipline, so why do…

Prayer for Parents and Children

Please join Michelle in this prayer for parents and children as we head toward the summer months and seek to navigate the intricacies of military life. A Prayer for Parents…

Basics of Bible Study

In this week’s Monday Minute, Andrea shares with us five practical approaches to the basics of Bible Study. May our curiosity about the things of God never grow dim. Basics…

Prayer Across the Miles

This week guest, Rachel Johnson, shares a powerful message about how prayer across the miles closes the gap between military women. Prayer Across the Miles Just scrolling through the contact…

Stronger Together in Prayer

For this week’s Thursday Prayer, Denise encourages us to be stronger together in prayer so that our military community might be strengthened by the Lord. Stronger Together in Prayer by…

Saying No to God

Jennifer Wake shares about her experiences with saying no to God in this week’s Worship Wednesday. Can you relate? Saying No To God   Here I am having another tantrum….

Prayer Moment by Moment

For this week’s Monday Minute, Claudia shares with us how God has been cultivating a heart for prayer moment by moment. For those of us who long to pray without…

When Walking Feels Like Falling

When walking feels like falling, we have a safe place to land. Join Claudia for some encouragement from Psalm 94 in this week’s Firmly Rooted Friday. When Walking Feels Like…

Shift Our Focus Toward Jesus

For this week’s Thursday Prayer, join Tonia in this prayer to shift our focus toward Jesus in all that we say and do. Shift Our Focus Toward Jesus “Lord, I…

The Benefits of Praying Scripture

Join Jennifer for this week’s Monday Minute as she shares how praying Scripture helped her during times of distress. The Benefits of Praying Scripture by Jennifer Wake   As he…

The Power of Living Unashamed

Join Claudia for this edition of Firmly Rooted Friday as she talks about the power of living unashamed. Let’s praise God together for his work of redemption. The Power of…

Peace in the Garden of Prayer

For this week’s Thursday Prayer, Denise prays that all the women and children in our military community would find peace in the garden of prayer. Peace in the Garden of…

God Transformed My Prayer Life

For this week’s Worship Wednesday, Liz shares how God transformed her prayer life from asking for her desires to an act of worship. How God Transformed My Prayer Life My…

Pray from the Heart

For this week’s Monday Minute with God, Ginger encourages just to leave behind our prayer insecurities and pray from the heart by reminding us that the right words aren’t magic…

3 Promises in Psalm 18

Join Claudia for this edition of Firmly Rooted Friday as she explores three powerful promises in Psalm 18. Three Promises in Psalm 18 Studying the Psalms changed my heart.  The…

Praying Psalm 27

For today’s Thursday Prayer, we invite you to join us in praying Psalm 27 over our warriors. Praying with verses from Psalm 27 today: “The Lord is my light and…

What is The Blessing?

For this week’s Worship Wednesday post, Jennifer shares how God blessed her family as they pondered the question her daughter posed: “What is the blessing?” What is The Blessing? “What…

Let Us Pray Together

For this week’s Monday Minute, Muriel shares about how God created us to pray together in community with one another because we are stronger that way. How can you grow…

Bending and Becoming

For this week’s Worship Wednesday, Jennifer shares her reflections on how bending palm fronds into crosses reminds her of how God is constantly bending us to become more like Jesus….

Perseverance Produces Growth

For this week’s Monday Minute, Michelle shares with us what God has been teaching her about how perseverance produces growth. Perseverance Produces Growth by Michelle Hieb   Each week I…

Prayer to Our King of Kings

For this week’s Sunday Prayer, Tonia leads us in a prayer to our King of Kings asking His Spirit to move mightily in our military communities.   King of Kings…

The Power of a Strong Redeemer

For this week’s Firmly Rooted Friday, Claudia shares with us what it means that we have a strong Redeemer in Jesus. The Power of a Strong Redeemer This past summer…

Change Your Point of View

For this week’s Worship Wednesday, Jennifer reminds us that God can change your point of view when the obstacles you face loom like the Himilayas. Change Your Point of View…

Growing in Godliness

Ginger shares what the Lord has been teaching her about growing in godliness despite the hardships of military life for this week’s Monday Minute. Growing in Godliness by Ginger Harrington…

Prayer for the Wavering Spouse

For this week’s Sunday Prayer, join Denise in this prayer for the wavering spouse, that God would strengthen her faith. To the Spouse who May Be Wavering by Denise Jolly…

The Pull of Performance

For this week’s Worship Wednesday, special guest Martha Roberson shares how God is challenging her to escape the pull of performance. The Pull of Performance   “I have to do…

Walk the Talk

For this week’s Monday Minute, Muriel shares with us how God has been showing her to walk the talk, not just in Bible study, but all over base and the…

An Easter Prayer

For this week’s Sunday Prayer, Michelle leads us in an Easter Prayer to renew a right spirit and focus within ourselves today and always! Blessed Easter from Planting Roots. An…

The Beauty of Easter

On this Good Friday, we reflect on the Beauty of Easter with this poem written by guest writer, April Erhardt. The Beauty of Easter by April Erhardt I wrote this…

The Ache of Absence

For this week’s Worship Wednesday, Liz shares with us how God taught her to seek the comfort of his presence in the ache of absence. The Ache of Absence My…

Spiritual Disciplines to Grow in Faith

But For this week’s Monday Minute, Brenda shares how spiritual disciplines help us to grow in faith, no matter what role we play as military women and wives. Spiritual Disciplines…

Gratitude for God’s Revelation

For this week’s Sunday Prayer, Tonia leads us to pray in gratitude for God’s revelation of himself to us. May that knowledge lead to heart change, so that others might…

Growing Together in Gratefulness

In this week’s Monday Minute, Claudia shares with us how we can start the process of growing together in gratefulness in one small but significant way. Growing Together in Gratefulness…

Generational Praise for Our Nation

This week, Tonia storms heaven’s gates with generational praise for our nation. Together, let’s praise God for his favor on our nation through the ages. Generational Praise for the Nation…

The Importance of Just Showing Up

As we conclude this month’s focus on generation wisdom and mentoring in the military community, Rachelle shares how God has been teaching her the importance of just showing up. Just…

A Prayer for Wisdom

Join Denise for this week’s Sunday Prayer for Wisdom in all areas of our military lives. A Prayer for Wisdom by Denise Jolly   Lord, Your wisdom above all is…

The Remarkable Truth about Age and Wisdom

For this week’s Monday Minute, Muriel flips convention on its head and challenges us to seek God’s remarkable truth about age and wisdom. The Remarkable Truth about Age and Wisdom…

A Prayer for Military Marriages

For this week’s Sunday Prayer, join Michelle in this prayer for military marriages. A Prayer for Military Marriages by Michelle Hieb   Father,   Thank you for your love, kindness,…

The Power of Joy

For this week’s Firmly Rooted Friday, Claudia shares how the power of joy helps her battle the loneliness she feels following a move far from her previous Battle Buddies. The…

God Makes Beautiful Things

For this week’s Worship Wednesday, Muriel shares how God makes beautiful things in her story of how he redeemed Fort Bragg for her. God Makes Beautiful Things   “He has…

Youthful Hearts Teach

In this week’s Monday Minute, Jennifer shares about a time in her life when she experienced the powerful way youthful hearts teach more seasoned women. Youthful Hearts Teach by Jennifer…

God’s Wisdom for Children

For this week’s Sunday Prayer, join Tonia as she prays for God’s wisdom for children in our military communities. God’s Wisdom for Children by Tonia Gutting   Father God, You…

Seeing An Unseen God

Do you struggle with seeing an unseen God? For this week’s Firmly Rooted Friday post, Claudia shares with us some ways we adjust our vision to see his hand at…

Another Ordinary Day

For this week’s Worship Wednesday, Jennifer shares with us how God can take what seems like just another ordinary day and make it extraordinary. Another Ordinary Day Turned Extraordinary  …

God’s Presence in Every Military Generation

For this week’s Monday Minute, Kristin shares about finding God’s presence in every military generation. God’s Presence in Every Military Generation by Kristin Goodrich (KG)   I spent my childhood…

Rooted Together in Wisdom

For this week’s Sunday Prayer, join Denise in praying that our warriors would be rooted together in wisdom from God. Rooted Together in Wisdom by Denise Jolly   Lord, we…

No Matter What

For this week’s Worship Wednesday, Stacey shares with us some encouraging words on finding contentment no matter what circumstances we face in this life. No Matter What   Content. In…

The Power of Showing Up

In this week’s Monday Minute, Kori talks about the power of showing up for the people God places in our lives. Who needs you to show up for them today?…

For Godly Battle Buddies

Join Michelle as she prays for our warriors, that they might have godly battle buddies who protect each other physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Prayer for our Warriors and Their Battle…

Love Gives Us Hope

Claudia closes out this Firmly Rooted Friday series on the “love chapter” with today’s discussion on how love gives us hope. Don’t miss the two previous weeks– week one and…

God Defends Us

For this week’s Worship Wednesday, Jennifer shares with us how God defends us in every hard thing we face in this life. God Defends Us   Why am I here? …

Finding a Battle Buddy

For this week’s Monday Minute, Michelle shares some tips with us from Acts 2:42 about how to find a battle buddy. Finding a Battle Buddy by Michelle Hieb   The…

What a Friend We Have in Jesus

Join Tonia for this week’s Sunday Prayer as she prays in gratitude for the friend we have in Jesus. What a Friend We Have in Jesus by Tonia Gutting  …

Love Gives Us Strength

Claudia continues our discussion of the “love chapter” with this week’s Firmly Rooted Friday post about how God’s love gives us strength. Don’t miss last week’s introduction. Love Gives Us…

When Trusting is Hard

For this week’s Worship Wednesday, Muriel shares with us about what to do when trusting is hard. When Trusting is Hard Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but…

True Love Bears Burdens

For this week’s Monday Minute, Jennifer talks about how true love bears burdens. God created us to do life together and has given us some specific instructions for what that…

Thanksgiving for Friendship

Join Denise as she prays in thanksgiving for friendship in Christ. Do you have a special battle buddy? Share this with her and thank her for being there for you!…

Love Changes Everything

Claudia kicks off this month’s Firmly Rooted Fridays with these encouraging words about how God’s love changes everything. Read all the way to the end for a little challenge to…

Praise God All The Time

For this week’s Worship Wednesday, Kayla encourages us to praise God all the time. It isn’t easy, but she shares some great examples of people who have kept the faith…

Be a Daughter of Encouragement

Muriel shares with us some practical advice about becoming a daughter of encouragement in this week’s Monday Minute. This is such an important part of living in community and growing…

Prayer for Single Warriors

Join Tonia in prayer for our single warriors in today’s edition of Sunday Prayer. Prayer for Single Warriors Based on Psalm 20 by Tonia Gutting   God of the heavenly…

Grateful for God’s Faithfulness

For this week’s Friday Voices, Claudia shares with us how she is grateful for God’s faithfulness, despite life’s challenges. Grateful for God’s Faithfulness by Claudia Duff   “Therefore, let us…

Don’t Give Up

“Don’t Give Up!” Has anyone ever encouraged you this way in a fitness course? For this week’s Monday Minute, Jennifer shares how God encourages us to keep going in our…

Prayer for Military Marriage

Join Michelle as she asks God to guide and strengthen our unions in this prayer for military marriage. We all know the challenges and pressures the military places marriages. A…

Shaped by Our Scars

For this week’s Worship Wednesday, Muriel shares how we are shaped by our scars. Shaped by our Scars by Muriel Gregory   “This. Is. Hard.” The whispered words felt heavy…

Living Life with One Another

For today’s Monday Minute, Jennifer shares with us what God has been teaching her about living life with one another in community. Living Life with One Another by Jennifer Wake…

For Military Spouses to Find Friends

We all know what a struggle it can be for military spouses to find friends. Join Michelle as she prays for those connections in this week’s Sunday Prayer. Prayer for…

A Better Cadence

For this week’s Worship Wednesday, Kristin shares with us how she is forging ahead to the beat of a better cadence. Find out why a former sailor would ever want…

Heart of Jesus

For this week’s Monday Minute, Muriel shares with us what God has been teaching her about how He created us for community as she studied the heart of Jesus. The…

Lord Watch Over Military Children

Join Tonia as she prays, “Lord watch over military children,” in this week’s Sunday Prayer. Lord Watch Over Military Children by Tonia Gutting Lord, The most powerful person the most…

One Word Can Change Everything

Can One Word change anything? Claudia launches a new Friday feature for 2020 with this week’s discussion on how God uses one word to change her perspective as she grows…

Red Letter Rescue Story

For this week’s Worship Wednesday, Stacey proclaims God’s glory in this red-letter rescue story ripped from the pages of her own life. A Humbled Heart by Stacey Gibson Today I…

Growing Together in Military Life

For this week’s Monday Minute, Planting Roots Director, Kori Yate, kicks off our theme for 2020: Growing Together. Growing Together in Military Life by Kori Yates   And let us…

Prayer for Military Women in 2020

Let’s all join Tonia in prayer for military women around the globe. Happy New Year from the Planting Roots Prayer Team. A 2020 Prayer for Military Women by Tonia Gutting…

Walking in Faith 2019

And In our final post of 2019, Kori wraps up our 2019 theme of Flourishing with a look back at all the ways we are walking in faith in military…

Giving the New Year to God

As we close out 2019, Tonia Gutting shares a prayer for giving the New Year to God. Giving the New Year to God by Tonia Gutting Lord God who makes…

God With Us at Christmas

For this week’s Worship Wednesday post, Jennifer Wake appropriately focuses our attention on Emmanuel, God with us! No matter where you are this Christmas morning, know that He is there…

Flourish Despite the Darkness

For this week’s Monday Minute, Claudia shares how God has been teaching her to flourish in faith despite the darkness that so often creeps into our lives during this season…

More Jesus for the Mil Spouse

In this week’s Sunday Prayer, Tonia Gutting prays for more Jesus for the Mil Spouse. Couldn’t we all use a little more Jesus? More Jesus for the Mil Spouse by…

Advent the Preparation

This week for Wednesday Worship, Jennifer Wake shares with us how we can prepare our hearts during this season of Advent. Advent by Jennifer Wake I love Christmas and I…

Find Your Identity Beyond the Uniform

For this week’s Monday Minute, Liz shares with us her experience as God helped her flourish in her identity beyond the uniform. Find Your Identity Beyond the Uniform by Liz…

A Prayer for Christmas Revival

In this week’s Sunday Prayer Tonia Gutting prays for us to all experience a Christmas revival in our communities, military installations, and churches. A Prayer for Christmas Revival by Tonia…

A PCS Christmas

We are thrilled to share this PCS Christmas story written by Tonia Gutting to encourage all our military women facing a move mid-holiday season. A PCS Christmas by Tonia Gütting…

Stepping Out in Faith

For this week’s Monday Minute, Jennifer shares with us what God has been teaching her about stepping out in faith. Stepping out in Faith to Flourish by Jennifer Wake  …

Flourish in Faith in Every Season

As we look forward to a season of celebration at Christmas, Michelle Heib prays for us to flourish in our faith in every season for this week’s Sunday Prayer. Flourish…

How to Show God’s Love

For this week’s Monday Minute, Muriel shares how to show God’s love. She cites three techniques Jesus taught us. 3 Techniques Jesus Gave Us to Show God’s Love by Muriel…

Flourish in the Gift of Faith

For this week’s Sunday Prayer, Hillary prays for us to flourish in the gift of faith. Flourish in the Gift of Faith by Hillary Baggett   O Lord, you have…

When You Don’t Feel Like Celebrating

For this week’s Monday Minute, Liz shares what to do when you don’t feel like celebrating. Flourishing when Festivities Don’t Feel Fun by Liz Giertz I don’t know about you,…

Prayer for Military Children

As we prepare to enter into the Advent season, for this week’s Sunday Prayer Tonia offers up a prayer for Military Children. An Advent Prayer for Our Military Children by…

Being Brave in Ballet

In today’s post, Kristin Goodrich shares what God taught her about living in his freedom through her experiences being brave in ballet. Being Brave in Ballet by Kristin Goodrich I…

Creative Ways to Celebrate God’s Faithfulness

For this week’s Monday Minute, Jennifer shares with us four Creative Ways to Celebrate God’s faithfulness! If you have more, we’d love to hear them! 4 Creative Ways to Celebrate…

A Thanksgiving Prayer

For this week’s Sunday Prayer, Tonia shares a thanksgiving prayer for our Service Members. A Thanksgiving Prayer for our Service Members by Tonia Gutting For the beauty of the earth…

Grace Upon Grace

This through back Worship Wednesday by Sarah McKinney reminds us that, “Grace upon grace” is ours. Grace Upon Grace… Strength 2 Thrive Conference November 7th, 2015 – Centreville, Virginia  …

How to Celebrate Like Jesus

In this week’s Monday Minute, Muriel shares five ways we can celebrate like Jesus! 5 Ways to Celebrate Like Jesus by Muriel Gregory Come to the Table “For where two…

Veteran’s Day

A look at Veteran’s Day – Only 9.4% of Veterans are women. Less than 10%. These women of courage, loyalty, and strength have served our country well since before the…

A Prayer for the Celebrations

In this week’s Sunday Prayer Michelle offers prayer for the celebrations of those who love Service Members. A Prayer for the Celebrations of Those who Love Service Members by Michelle…

Joyless Journey, No More

Originally published November 4, 2014 I enjoy routine, organization, and if you came for a visit, you would see sticky notes and lists in several rooms of my home. I…

The Art of Simple Celebration

This week, Kori kicks off our month of Flourishing in Celebration by sharing four ways we can master the art of simple celebration. Flourishing in Simple Celebration by Kori Yates…

Celebrate in Hard Times

For this week’s Sunday prayer, Hillary prays for God to inspire us to flourish even as we celebrate in the hard times. Flourish as We Celebrate in Hard Times by…

Flourishing Despite Our Feelings

For this week’s Monday Minute, we are thrilled to have guest Kelli Baker share with us these three steps for flourishing despite our feelings. Celebrating Peace in the Midst of…

A Prayer for the Health of Our Warriors

Tonia prays for the health of our Warriors for this week’s Sunday prayer. What a privilege to be able to pray to the God who made every cell in our…

Resting in the Father’s Arms

Have you ever wondered about resting in the Father’s arms? For this week’s Worship Wednesday Katie Hawkins shares more of what God has been teaching her in the aftermath of…

5 Steps to Help You Grow Healthy

This week, Kori shares 5 steps grow healthy so we can serve God more fully in this week’s Monday Minute.   5 Steps to Help You to Grow Healthy by…

For a Flourishing Healthy Ministry

In this week’s Sunday Prayer, Hillary celebrates the anniversary of Planting roots by praying for a flourishing healthy ministry for all those who serve the Lord. A Flourishing Healthy Ministry…

When Your Health is Shaken

Has a difficult diagnosis left you feeling as if your health is shaken? We are honored to share Katie’s brave words about the cancer journey that has left her feeling…

7 Habits of Spiritually Healthy People

In this week’s edition of Monday Minute, Muriel shares 7 habits of spiritually healthy people and 4 pertinent proverbs that provide practical application for us all. 7 Habits of Spiritually…

Praying for the Wellbeing of Those Who Love Service Members

For this week’s Sunday Prayer, Michelle shares this prayer for the health and wellbeing of those who love service members. A Prayer for the Health and Wellbeing of Those who…

Fit for Consumption

Stacey shares her heart and encourages us to do what God says makes us fit for consumption in this week’s Worship Wednesday. Fit for Consumption by Stacey Gibson Fitness. It’s…

Being Smart About God’s Word

For this week’s Monday Minute Kristin shares 4 steps toward being intellectually healthy and the importance of not just being smart, but being smart about God’s Word. 4 Steps towards…

Prayer to Flourish in Health: Mind, Body, Heart, Soul

For this week’s Sunday Prayer, Hillary shares this beautiful prayer to flourish in health. May all military women flourish with healthy minds, bodies, hearts, and souls. Flourish in Health for…

Healthy Discomfort: Pruned from the Vine

Hillary brings us this week’s Worship Wednesday about how trusting our Good Good Father helps us embrace healthy discomfort when we are pruned from the vine of the familiar. Healthy…

4 Ways To Create Balance

This week as we wrap up our conversation about flourishing in work, Rachelle shares what God has been teaching her about the ever-elusive topic: how to create balance. Ways To…

Seeking Our Significance from the Lord Instead of Work

In this week’s Sunday Prayer, Hillary prays for us to constantly be seeking our significance from the Lord instead of from our work. Seeking Our Significance from the Lord instead…

Making God the Center of Our Work

It is my pleasure to share Jennifer’s wise words about making God the center of our work for this week’s Worship Wednesday post… Making God the Center of Our Work…

4 Ways to Gain a Heavenly Perspective on Housework

This week, Liz Giertz is excited to share with you some lessons God has been teaching her about gaining a heavenly perspective on housework. It hasn’t been easy but it…

Praying for Warriors’ Work

Tonia Gutting prays powerfully for our Warriors’ Work in this week’s Sunday Prayer. Perhaps no job needs prayer more than the military members’.  Praying for Warriors’ Work  by Tonia Gutting…

The Art of Looking Up

For this week’s Worship Wednesday, we are sharing wise words about the art of looking up written by Muriel Gregory. The Art of Looking Up by Muriel Gregory From the…

3 Lessons to Help Choosing the Best

Today our Director, Kori Yates, shares with us three lessons to help us with choosing the best as we continue our discussion about Flourishing in work this month. 3 Lessons…

Flourishing in God-Given Work

In today’s Sunday Prayer, Michelle prays for us to flourish in our God-Given work and covers everything we do and reminds us that all our work is meant to bring…

Watching for God’s Plan

I’m excited to share Jennifer’s encouraging words about watching for God’s plan in all that we do for this week’s Worship Wednesday. Watching for God’s Plan by Jennifer Wake It’s…

Steps to Make Hard Work Easier

I’m excited to share this insightful post from Kristin Goodrich containing 4 Steps to Make Hard Work Easier. 4 Steps to Make Hard Work Easier! Let’s Git ‘er Done! by…

Prayer to Flourish in Work as Kids Return to School

For today’s Sunday Prayer, Hillary prays for us to flourish in work as we embrace the changes to our schedules Fall inevitably brings. Prayer to Flourish in Work as Kids…

When Worthless Work Becomes Worship

I’m honored to share for this week’s Worship Wednesday what God has been teaching me about how worthless work becomes worship. When Worthless Work Becomes Worship by Liz Giertz When…

5 Purposes of Work

I’m excited to share Brenda Pace’s wisdom in today’s post, 5 Purposes of Work, as we kick of our month of Flourishing in Work. Created for Work by Brenda Pace…

Prayer for Military Spouses’ Work

The Psalmist asks God to ‘establish the work of my hands.’ We can too. Please join us in praying for military spouses’ work this week. Prayer for Military Spouses’ Work…

Understanding the Call to Serve

This week I’m excited to share Karen Whiting’s wise words about understanding the call to serve as we bridge the gap between this month’s focus on parenting and next month’s…

Keep Breathing: Life after Miscarrying

For this week’s Worship Wednesday Post, Jennifer Wake shares about life after miscarrying and how God helped her to keep breathing. If you’ve endured this painful loss, I pray you’ll…

5 Steps for Gathering Hope During the Loss of a Child

In this week’s Monday Minute, Claudia shares with us her deeply personal story of gathering hope during the loss of a child. Believe it or not, God can make it…

Praying to Focus on Jesus While Parenting

In this week’s Sunday prayer, Jessica and Hillary encourage us to focus on Jesus while parenting. What a great way to close out this month’s focus on flourshing in parenting! Praying…

10 Affirmations for Flourishing as a Mother-To-Be

I’m excited to share these 10 affirmations for flourishing as a Mother-To-Be written by Active Duty Military Woman, Marissa Day. These are eternal truths for military women in uniform and…

God Provides Our Cover During Battles

In this week’s Worship Wednesday post, Claudia shares with us how she learned that God provides our cover during battles in our everyday lives. God Provides Our Cover During Battles…

5 Keys to Parenting Teenagers

In this week’s Monday Minute, Muriel shares with us 5 keys to parenting teenagers as God showed her the importance of shifting from disiplining to discipling. How to Shift from…

Prayer for Children to Grow in Christ

In this weeks’ Sunday Prayer, Hillary prays boldly for all children to grow in Christ. As a mother, these words echo the cry of my own heart. Prayer for Children…

Faith Teaches Children to Fly

In this week’s Worship Wednesday, Jennifer shares with us how worshiping God by faith helps extinguish the enemy’s fiery attacks on our children–how our faith teaches children to fly. Faith…

3 Ideas for Parenting Adult Children

In this week’s Monday Minute, Brenda shares with us three ideas God has shown her for parenting adult children amidst the challenges of military life. 3 Ideas for Parenting Adult…

A Prayer of Thanksgiving for God’s Perfect Parenting

For this week’s Sunday Prayer, Michelle leads us in this beautiful prayer of thanksgiving for God’s perfect parenting. Where would we be without his example? A Prayer of Thanksgiving for God’s…

When You Need a Summertime Revival

For this week’s Worship Wednesday, Claudia shares about how relevant a good old fashioned summertime revival is to us today! Summertime Revival by Claudia Duff revival noun re·viv·al | \…

3 Principles for Parenting on the Same Page

In this week’s Monday Minute, Liz kicks off this month’s theme of flourishing in parenting with some great tips for military families to practice parenting on the same page–God’s page!…

Praise for Parents and Prayer for Healing for Soul Hurts

Hillary kicks off this month’s focus on flourishing in parenting with this prayer of praise for parents and the comforting truth that we have a heavenly Father who is forever…

Worship When Mercy Fills Your Cup

In this week’s Worship Wednesday, Claudia challenges us all to worship God when his mercy fills your cup. Worship When Mercy Fills Your Cup by Claudia Duff mercy noun mer·cy…

3 Steps to Flourish in Every Life Season

For this week’s Monday Minute, Brenda shares with us some timeless wisdom from God’s Word about how to flourish in every life season. Flourish in Every Life Season by Brenda…

A Prayer for Trust in Transition

In this week’s Sunday Prayer, Hillary and Jessica teamed up to bring us this beautiful prayer for trust in transition. Praying according to God’s names and his character is such…

Flourishing When You Don’t Like Where You’re Planted

This Guest Post by Jennifer Raburn, one of our newest Worship Team members, gives us some great tips for flourishing when you don’t like where you’re planted. Flourishing When You…

4 Steps to Flourish When Taking Off the Uniform

In this week’s Monday Minute Kristin continues our discussion of flourishing in transitions with what she learned about taking off the uniform at the end of her service in the…

Praying Through Military Transition

In this week’s Sunday Prayer, Hillary shares with us a beautiful example of praying through military transition. Praying Through Military Transition by Hillary Baggett   Lord, the summer moving season…

Look Into the Light in Military Life

In this week’s Worship Wednesday, Hillary Baggett shares how God has been teaching her to look into the light in military life, even when darkness seems to settle over you….

5 Practical Ways to Prepare for Military Retirement

Then In this week’s Monday Minute Claudia shares with us what God taught her when it came time for her family to prepare for military retirement. 5 Practical Ways to…

A Prayer for Faith to Flourish in Transitions

In this week’s Sunday Prayer, Michelle prays for our faith to flourish in transitions. As military women, we always seem to be in transition. A Prayer for Faith to Flourish…

How To Flourish During a Military Move

In this week’s Monday Minute Kori, Founder of Planting Roots, shares with us 3 excellent strategies to flourish during a military move. Chances are, if you aren’t moving this summer,…

Stillness and Trusting in the Lord During Transitions

In this week’s Sunday Prayer, Hillary prays for us to find stillness before God as we commit to trusting in the Lord during transitions. Stillness and Trusting in the Lord…

Finding Peace in the Eye of The Storm

In this week’s Worship Wednesday, Jennifer Wake shares what God has taught her about finding peace in the eye of the storm. Finding Peace In the Eye of the Storm…

5 Ways to Flourish in Transitions after Deployment

In this week’s Monday Minute, Liz kicks off our July theme of transitions with five ways we can all flourish during troubling transitions after Deployment. Flourish in Transitions after Deployment…

Praying Revelation 5 for Our Military

In this week’s Sunday Prayer, Tonia shares the power of praying God’s Word back to him by praying Revelation 5 for our military. Praying from Revelation 5 by Tonia Gutting…

Embrace a Life of Freedom in Christ

In this week’s Worship Wednesday, Nicole shares a song that inspires her to embrace a life of freedom in Christ. Embrace A Life of Freedom in Christ by Nicole Williams…

5 Simple Ways to Flourish in Prayer

In this week’s Monday Minute, Ginger shares with us 5 Simple ways to flourish in prayer, by making it a normal part of our daily routines. 5 Simple Ways to…

Praying for Time to Pray

In this week’s Sunday Prayer, Jessica prays this short and powerful prayer for us to find the time to pray. Flourishing in our prayer lives requires us to make time…

7 Steps to Pray Like Jesus

In this week’s Monday Minute, Brenda shares with us 7 Steps God has shown her to pray like Jesus. Having a thriving prayer life is key to flourishing. Lessons from…

Spending the Day in Prayer

In this week’s Sunday Prayer, Hillary prays for us to envision ways to be spending the day in prayer. A Prayer for Spending the Day in Prayer        by Hillary…

The Battles I am Fighting

There seems to be no end to the battles I am fighting. In this week’s Worship Wednesday post, Jennifer Wake shares with us the impact Michael W. Smith’s song “Surrounded”…

5 Practical Ways to Pray Intentionally

In this week’s Monday Minute Claudia Duff shares with us 5 practical ways to pray intentionally so we can flourish in our prayer lives. How to Flourish in Prayer by…

Flourish in Prayer

In this week’s Sunday Prayer, Hillary prays for us to flourish in prayer by keeping our eyes on the Lord. Praying to Flourish in Prayer by Keeping our Eyes on…

3 Secrets to Praying Without Ceasing

In this weeks Monday Minute, Muriel shares with us 3 Secrets she has discovered to praying without ceasing. The visual she uses for her prayer circles is so helpful for…

Flourishing the Simple Prayer of Jesus

In this week’s Sunday Prayer, Michelle prays for us to flourish by following Jesus’ example of simple prayer. Flourishing in the Simple Prayer of Jesus by Michelle Hieb Lord, when…

Never Alone in the Race of Life

In this week’s Worship Wednesday, Hillary shares about the time God turned a running date into a divine appointment and reminded her she is never alone in this life! Never…

4 Ways to Wait Well During Deployment

In this week’s Monday Minute, Liz Giertz shares with us four ways we can wait well during deployment. Waiting Well and Flourishing During Deployment by Liz Giertz I am not…

A Prayer to Flourish in Deployment

In this week’s Sunday Prayer, Hillary prays for God to help us Flourish in Deployment. A Prayer to Flourish in Deployment      by Hillary Baggett God is our strength, our…

Don’t Look at the Moving Boxes, Look to Jesus

It is moving season around the military and in this week’s Worship Wednesday post, Jennifer Wake reminds us where we should fix our eyes when the packers start stacking the…

3 Steps to Help Others During Deployment

In this week’s Monday Minute, Brenda Pace shares 3 steps we can all take to help others during deployment. 3 “Steps” to Help Others Flourish During Deployment by Brenda Pace…

We Turn to God in Prayer During Deployment

In this week’s Sunday Prayer, Michelle urges us to turn to God in prayer during deployment and in all our activities because he is the God Who Sees. Turn to…

Be Still and Know During Deployment

For this week’s Worship Wednesday post, Hillary shares a powerful lesson God taught her about the importance of being still and knowing to Whom to look during deployment. Be Still…

5 Ways to Keep Kids Connected During Deployment

In this week’s Monday Minute Planting Roots Director Kori Yates talks about 5 ways to keep kids connected during deployment, so we can not only survive but truly flourish during…

A Prayer for All Women on Mother’s Day

For this week’s Sunday Prayer, Hillary petitions heaven on behalf of all women on Mother’s Day. A Prayer for All Women on Mother’s Day by Hillary Baggett Lord, we praise…

The Heart that Waits

Join Sarah for a throwback Worship Wednesday as she shares from her heart on deployment. The Heart that Waits The words that follow poured out of my heart years ago….

4 Ways to Overcome Fear During Deployment

For this week’s Monday Minute Muriel shares with us 4 ways to overcome fear during deployment. How to Flourish in Deployment. Fear is a Liar. By Muriel Gregory The training…

Prayer During Separation Due to Military Service

In this week’s Sunday Prayer, Tonia Gutting prays for all of us who experience a time of separation due to military service. If you or your loved one is deployed…

Break Free from the Fear Prison

In this week’s Worship Wednesday post, Hillary talks about how surrendering her finances to God helped her break free from the fear prison money had put her in. Money, Fear,…

5 Ways to Teach Finances to Children

by Jennifer Wake How We Started to Teach Finances to Our Kids ID card day! When my kids turned 10 my husband took them to get their ID cards. What…

A Prayer to Renew Hope

In this week’s Sunday Prayer, Hillary draws our eyes to the renewal God works in his creation this time of year to inspire us to seek him to renew hope…

When Life Struggles Make It Hard to Worship

The Bible tells us God is worthy of our praise. But what do we do when our life struggles make it hard to worship? When Life Struggles Make it Hard…

Five Ways to Cope with Overspending During Deployment

by Courtney Woodruff How to Flourish Financially During Deployment by NOT Overspending My fingertips brushed the bright floral fabric. The light-hearted tangerine, lemon, and grapefruit hues lifted my spirits. Without…

An Easter Prayer

Please join us at Planting Roots in praying this poetic Easter prayer over our military women and their families as we celebrate our Risen Savior. An Easter Prayer by Tonia…

Finding Peace When Life is Hard

We all know how hard finding peace can be in a world so fraught with turmoil, but there is hope. We can say, “it is well with my soul,” when…

4 Ways to Flourish in the MSRRA Change

By Jennifer Wake Flourishing Through MSRRA MSRRA is a wonderful thing. But few people know what it is. MSRRA stands for Military Spouses Residency Relief Act (Public law 111-97) passed…

A Prayer for Our Father’s Love

A Prayer for Our Father’s Love by Tonia Gutting   Father God, You could have just shrugged, turned away, and started over somewhere else. You could have said ‘I told…

When Waves of Grief Crash Over You

When Waves of Grief Crash Over You by Jennifer Wake It comes in waves like the ocean pounding against the shore. Have you felt it, too? The overwhelming waves of grief…

4 Ways to Save (to be able to give)

By Kori Yates Flourishing in Finances We were newlyweds. I was a new Marine. He a young Soldier. We were rich, receiving our first paychecks in active duty life and…

A Lenten Prayer

A Lenten Prayer by Tonia Gutting Lord Jesus, in Lent– we realize how un-holy our lives are. Help us to take up our cross and follow You on the road…

Top 10 Money Matters Tips for Military Life

By Ellie Kay, guest blogger How to Flourish in Finances Would you like to make smarter decisions when it comes to money matters? When I was a young military bride, I…

Prayer for Spiritual Battle Buddies

As Satan attempts to isolate and shame our military members, we pray for spiritual battle buddies to comfort, strengthen, and encourage them. ********* A Prayer for Spiritual Battle Buddies Good,…

The Deep, Abiding, Unfathomable Love of God

The Deep, Abiding, Unfathomable Love of God   Facing the Paradigm I love fairy tales. Wrapped up in the blanket of those certainties, I admit that I crave a happy…

4 Ways to Build Community

by Larissa Traquair Build Community God started building my “tribe” way before I knew what was happening. I am an extrovert – I love being around people. They give me…

Let Us Pray for Friendships

Dear Lord, today we pray for truth in friendships in this season. Bless the women reading this with a new deep friendship with another godly woman and prayer partner so…

Do You Have a Vision?

by Kayla Atkins Do You Have a Vision? Have you seen The Greatest Showman? I remember a year ago, sitting in the theater with my daughter who was 9 months…

3 Ways to Reconnect in Military Friendships

by Claudia Duff 3 Ways to Reconnect: Wild Horses, Thieves, and Dimes Friends are multiplied and can reconnect in the world of social media. Think about it, who has over…

A Parent’s Prayer

A Parent’s Prayer Lord—our perfect Parent—thank You for our children. What amazing creations—beautiful eyes, awesome smiles, funny perspectives, great potentials. How You have blessed us! How You have blessed them….

Worship Through Sacrificial Giving in the Lenten Season

Marie Kondo, Burnt Offerings, Sparks of Joy There is a tornado blowing through social media and tearing down all the strongholds of clutter. Yep, I am talking about Marie Kondo….

4 Pointers for Creating Military Friendships

by Kori Yates Reaching Out I went to church the other day. Not a unique happening in our world, but this Sunday was different. It’s a military chapel and meeting…

How Deep the Father’s Love

“There are only two ways to live your life. One is as though nothing is a miracle. The other is as though everything is a miracle.” –Albert Einstein Let’s pray…

You Are Not Alone

You Are Not Alone   I couldn’t wrap my brain around it. It was too big…and it was desperately not enough. I remember it like it was yesterday. I didn’t…

How to Handle Challenging Military Friendships

by Muriel Gregory How to Handle Challenging Military Friendships She likes me… she likes me not… The room was big and filled with chatter and laughter. The mood was light…

A Prayer to the God of All Hope

Today we are praying with verses from Colossians 1. “We always thank God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you, because we have heard of…

When Your Friend Has a Broken Heart

Unintimidated   Her eyes fell to the floor, “I’m…sorry,” she whispered. Tears were falling now, down her lovely face, and leaving marks on her blouse. I didn’t really know what…

How Important is Forgiveness in Marriage?

by Claudia Duff When my husband was active duty, he traveled a lot. While he was away it was my job to hold the fort until he got back. That…

A Prayer of Love and Hope for Military Kids

Praying with the song “O Come to the Altar” by Elevation Worship this week: Are you hurting and broken within Overwhelmed by the weight of your sin Jesus is calling…

When the Miles Are Long

I don’t regret the life I’ve chosen. Not at all. In 18 moves, we have been within easy driving distance of our extended family only twice. That’s actually a pretty…

Can You Have a “Maximum” Marriage?

by Rachelle Whitfield My husband and I started premarital counseling several months before the big date. I was on staff at a church and it was a requirement in order…

Prayer of Thankfulness and Praise

Praying with Psalm 86 Today Among the gods there is none like You, Lord; no deeds can compare with Yours. All the nations You have made will come and worship…

Happy Valentine’s Day from the One Who Loves You Most

Happy Valentine’s Day! I know, I know, it’s the one holiday many love to hate. Some of us are still bearing the battle scars of horrific Valentine’s Days. Either you…

Intimacy in a Military Marriage

by Muriel Gregory Naked in the Garden Then the man said, “This at last is bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh; she shall be called Woman, because…

Prayer for Military Homes

God who knows my name and my address– my future addresses and my past ones God who knows me beyond my titles beyond my false fronts beyond my accomplishments and…

Are We There Yet? (and other repetitive questions from a military homeschool mom)

“Are We There Yet?” (and other repetitive questions from a military homeschool mom)   Surely I am not the only one who’s heard the impatience echo around their mini-van… “Mom,…

Waiting and Longing for Love

by Jennifer Wake Waiting Alone When I was a little girl, I did not dream of my wedding; I just knew I would marry someday. Through high school and college, I…

Our Military Kids to Know God

Praying with verses from Psalm 138 this week: I will praise you, Lord, with all my heart; before the ‘gods’ I will sing your praise. Heavenly Father, may this next…

Can We Truly Be Content No Matter What?

Content: a state of peaceful happiness; a state of satisfaction; pleased; fulfilled; happy; cheerful; glad; unworried; untroubled; at ease; at peace; tranquil; serene Wow. Those words paint such a vivid picture…

New Year’s Resolutions All Year Long

By Claudia Duff New Year’s Resolutions all year long Happy New Year! We did it! We made it to another year. It feels like Christmas all over again, doesn’t it?…

Prayer for All Our Military Members

When the sun rises on our troops in Korea, Afghanistan, Iraq, Syria, Germany, Fort Bragg, Fort Leavenworth, Fort Lewis, Fort Wainwright– And on our sailors in Hawaii, Japan, the Mediterranean,…

Already Enough…Peace in the Midst of the Waiting

Already Enough…Peace in the Midst of the Waiting I don’t know about you, but the list housing my prayer requests is pretty long these days. Life, in general, just seems…

Set the Stage to Flourish

By Katye Riselli One year we trekked more than 1500 miles to a colder, seemingly barren terrain. As we traded our shorts and flip-flops for jeans, I rehearsed all the…

Prayer for the Worries of Today

When we lose all illusion of control– When the orders change or the unwanted ones come, When the little ones walk up the sidewalk to school or leave for college,…

Giants and Hallelujahs

Giants and Hallelujahs   Giants can represent many things. Fear. Doubt. Anxiety. Sickness. Cancer. Loss. Giants can fill up the sacred spaces in your heart and they don’t like to…

Flourish by Abiding in Christ

By Muriel Gregory Bloom Where You are Planted “I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much…

Prayer for Our Military Children

To one You give green eyes To another a smile that touches hearts. To one You give a sense of numbers to another words to another shapes and forms to…

Living Beyond the Noise

Living Beyond the Noise   Life is just loud. With three kids, two dogs, a bunny rabbit, and a host of OPK’s (other people’s kids – which inevitably end up…

Learning to Flourish

by Kori Yates   God wants us to FLOURISH. His desire is for us to FLOURISH in every aspect of life all the time, which is a great idea. Applying…

Lord, Teach Us to Praise You in the Midst of Military Life

Praying with excerpts from Psalm 135 for our warriors today. Praise the Lord. As the new calendar fills As the goals give way to demands As we hurl ourselves headlong into this…

A Military Mom’s Life…One Small (but not insignificant) Step at a Time

A Military Mom’s Life One Small (But Not Insignificant) Step at a Time   As a military wife and mom, I will be the first to acknowledge that the weightiness…

Flourish in 2019

By Kori Yates The righteous will flourish like a palm tree, they will grow like a cedar of Lebanon; planted in the house of the Lord, they will flourish in the courts of…

Free to Worship

How We’re Learning by Liz Giertz Worship. Our founding fathers established this country ensuring people would be free to worship as they saw fit. As a soldier, I swore an…

New Year’s Prayer for Military Families

Behold your King! Lord God Almighty, may we behold You this year! In the hard times, teach us to instinctively turn our face to You. In the good times, help…

Questions Jesus Still Answers

The questions and the answers Every year I struggle to get my brain around the fact that Christmas has come around again. Is it really here already? And every year,…

Free Because Christ Came

How We’re Learning By Brenda Pace   For many years, one of our family Christmas traditions was to read aloud Barbara Robinson’s Best Christmas Pageant Ever. The endearing story of…

All is Well Because of You

All is well. Because of Your love all can be well, all will be well, and all is well. Lord help us hold to that as the rush and roar…

Seeing the Heart…and Forgiving Anyway

Seeing the Heart…and forgiving anyway   Sometimes the best way to cover the ground that lies up ahead is to let go of the miles behind you. You’ve heard the…

Free to Treasure the Season

How We’re Learning By Muriel Gregory Treasure the Season We can only be said to be alive in those moments when our hearts are conscious of our treasures. Thornton Wilder…

Come Lord Jesus, Come

We say, “Come Lord Jesus, come.” Thank You for this time to remember Your coming and all the joy that surrounds it. Thank You for love and goodwill. Thank You…

Not Ok…but It’s Ok

Not Ok…but It’s Ok   There is an epidemic unfolding. I know you see it, too. Perhaps you even feel it. Everywhere you look everyone is working overtime to hide…

Free to Worship Christ

How We’re Learning By Kori Yates I could tell you all about crazy. I could remind you how busy the Christmas season is. I could tell you the importance of…

Mary’s Prayer

Let’s pray with Mary in Luke 1:46-53 today: My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, Yes Lord, yes! Today we stop and praise You….

Free to Remember and Honor

Pearl Harbor Day of Remembrance by Katye Riselli The flag flies at half-mast today. The simple shift calls us to remember and honor those lost on Pearl Harbor 77 years…

What We All Bring

What We All Bring   I confess, I have always admired women who can sew, quilt, crochet, knit, and all those other wondrous gifts with yarn, needle, and thread. But…

Free to Wait Expectantly

How We’re Learning By Katye Riselli “Hurry up and wait” is one of the phrases that best describes military life. Everything (and everyone) needs to be ready now, but then…

Glory to God

Glory to God in the highest! When the stars shimmer and the aurora lights dance and we breathe, “Glory!” it is a small glimpse of Your Glory. When the waves…

From Failure to Flourish

From Failure to Flourish   If I seem like I am writing a great deal about parenting lately, it’s because…well…I am. I can’t help it. It is where I’m living…

Free to Be Gratefully Brave

How We’re Learning By Claudia Duff grate·ful            /ˈɡrātfəl/            Adjective: feeling or showing an appreciation of kindness; thankful. November–the month where everyone seems just a bit happier than usual. For me,…

O come, O Come Emmanuel

O Come, O Come Emmanuel Emmanuel. God. With. Us. Thank You Lord for the truth of this. No other god comes to us because of love for us. And You,…

When Your Daughter is a Warrior

When Your Daughter is a Warrior   The set of her jaw. The solid confidence in her gait. The determined, if not fierce, look in her eyes when faced with…

Free to Be Thankful for Neighbors

How We’re Learning By Michelle Hieb I could feel the pressure building as I reached the cashier in the hospital shoppette. All I had to do was choose between peanut…

How have You blessed us!

Lord, God! This land– grasslands dotted with cattle prairies bursting with grain waters teeming with fish trees drooping with fruit fields full of lettuce and strawberries and carrots and cabbage…

Free to Be Vulnerable

(Planting Roots’ response to Free to Grow During Grief by Anonymous) By Katye Riselli Planting Roots recently chose to publish our Monday Minute without attribution. We chose to simply use…

It Really Is That Simple

It Really Is That Simple   “What makes you so different?” she asked, not the least bit trying to offend. With a furrowed brow, she leaned in, genuinely wanting to…

Free to Show Gratitude to Friends

How We’re Learning By Kori Yates Friends in our military world are many. We have friends who are friends for a season and friends who are friends for life. We…

Thank You for Your Mercy!

Ah Lord God, If it weren’t for the birth, the cross, the resurrection, there would not be much thanks giving! But because of Your love because of Your sacrifice because…

One Marriage. One Family. Under God. Indivisible.

By Cheryl McKay   When I see the phrase “strength to thrive in military life” as the motto of Planting Roots, my heart stirs. It is definitely not a lifestyle…

Toward Trusting

Toward   “If I speak in the tongues of men or of angels, but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. 2 If I have the…

Free to Be Thankful for Family

How We’re Learning By Muriel Gregory Who is my sister? The mood was light. The view outside the window was simply breathtaking. The clouds had cleared and we had an…

Teach Us Lord

Teach us, good Lord, to serve You as You deserve; To give and not to count the cost; to fight and not to heed the wounds; to toil and not…

Turning the Tables

Turning the Tables   “Aren’t you afraid?” she whispered, not the least bit ashamed to ask. I just smiled. “No…not anymore,” I answered, not the least bit hesitant. As she…

Free to Grow During Grief

How We’re Learning By anonymous guest writer My Christian military marriage is mediocre. And I’m sad. The past few years have brought a number of challenges. We’re in the season…

Praying Psalm 67

Praying with Psalm 67 today: May God be gracious to us and bless us and make His face shine on us– SO THAT Your ways may be known on earth,…

Perspective

Perspective   Perspective. Such a good word. Something we all crave and even pray for. I know I do. Yet, it is something that can get so easily lost. At…

Free to Trust God

How We’re Learning By Katye Riselli I stared at the names, crestfallen. Those weren’t the teachers we wanted. It felt a bit like a gut punch, and all too quickly…

Prayer to the God of the impossible

God of the impossible Who makes the impossibly big great white shark the impossibly small chickadee the impossible color of salmon and scarlet on the maple’s fall leaves the impossible…

Happy Birthday, Planting Roots!

As we hit our four-year mark here at Planting Roots, I am in awe of what the Lord has done, not just in Planting Roots but also in me. Through…

Losing Control

Losing Control …and it’s actually a good thing   Hey, listen…I like order. I just do. I like predictable. Ducks in a row. I like to prepare for what is…

Free to Be Brave…and Head to Boot Camp

How We’re Learning By Kristin Goodrich Each of us who has worn a uniform or who is currently serving had to go through boot camp. My first-hand transition from civilian…

Praying through Isaiah

Let’s pray with verses from Isaiah for our warriors today. Please insert the name of a certain person, or group, into the blanks: Do you not know? Have you not…

Redefining Spaces

Redefining Spaces   About three years ago, our family changed. I changed. The diagnosis caught each of us a bit off guard. We had our rhythm and we liked it…

Free to Say No

How We’re Learning by Kori Yates Say No. One of the most difficult things in my life. I am a doer by nature. I take James’ words to heart when…

Heavy Hearts

Lord, our hearts are heavy for our children for the preemie fighting for her life for the toddler who can’t control her emotions or words anymore for the school girl…

He Comes Close

He Comes Close   The way that enormous flag looked hanging from the overpass still lingers in my memory. The breeze was still that afternoon, even if our emotions were…

Free from Interferences

How We’re Learning By Muriel Gregory   “The sheep hear his voice, and he calls his own sheep by name and leads them out.” John 10:3 ESV I am a…

King of My Heart

A light more blinding than a million suns A power stronger than all the earthquakes or all the seas or all the rulers of this world A wisdom deeper than…

Remembering

Remembering   No one ever starts out with a goal to “go small.” No way. It’s a “Go BIG or go home” society we live in, right? More. Bigger. Better….

Free to Breathe

How We’re Learning by Kori Yates Anxiety. Fear. They’re feelings we battle whether we like it or not. New places and faces. Sending children off to school. New jobs. New…

Lord, we want to know you.

Lord, we want to know You. We want to see You in the room when we’re exhausted and don’t think we can continue. We want to feel Your presence when…

Breaking Through

Breaking Through   There is a theme that seems to be pursuing me. It is uncomfortable, but entirely necessary. I wake up sensing it, walk through my day pursuing it,…

Free to Exhale

How We’re Learning By Sarah McKinney I didn’t even realize I had been holding my breath. Wandering through my days with a “fake it till you make it” mentality had…

Praying through Jeremiah

When our hearts are heavy, when the needs are many, when the words won’t come, You are there, dear Lord Jesus. And You give us the words to say. And…

Mountains, Valleys or Somewhere in the Middle

Mountains, Valleys, or Somewhere in the Middle   Recently, while moving across the country to our new duty station, my family and I took advantage of the landscape to take…

Free to Cry

How We’re Learning By Kristin Goodrich “Toughen up, buttercup!” “Put on your big girl panties!” “No tears. Nope.” Military culture projects an eleventh commandment to women in uniform: Thou shalt…

The Greatest “Why”

The Greatest “Why” Every year, right about this time, I have a total meltdown. Yup. It is shockingly messy and yes, it is typically loud. I should just go ahead…

LEGOs and Other Things

Work [wurk] – exertion directed to produce or accomplish something; labor; toil Labor [ley-ber] -productive activity, by a person or a body of persons. Today we celebrate Labor Day. A…

Seek The Lord

I seek the gift, find instead the Giver, and eventually come away with the gift I no longer seek. My own emphasis in prayer has moved from petition to companionship,…

More…I Just Want Simple

More   Crayons. They mystify me. I mean, seriously, how many colors can you come up with already? I just wanted to get the “original” size and scope, you know?…

Free to Be ME!

  How We’re Learning By Claudia Duff   Do You Know Who I Am?   My military ID card expired! That sentence will strike fear in the heart of everyone associated…

We will Trust You

Lord, when our warriors are by our sides, we will trust You. And when we don’t know where our warriors are, we will trust You. We will praise You when…

Small Things are Just as Big

One of my favorite quotes of all time is from Helen Keller when she said, “I long to accomplish great and noble tasks, but it is my chief duty and…

How I love Jesus

***It is with great joy that I welcome a very special young lady, Rhema Russell, to the Worship Wednesday table today. She is 14 years old. When she was 2,…

Deep love of Jesus

O the deep, deep love of Jesus, vast, unmeasured, boundless, free! Rolling as a mighty ocean in its fullness over me! Underneath me, all around me, is the current of…

Rhema…Spoken Word

***The following is the first of a two-part story. Every syllable is raw, full of grace, and the wondrous power and faithfulness of God…who hears and sees us wherever we…

Free to Speak

How We’re Learning By Kori Yates Say Something “I don’t know enough to share Jesus.” I have heard these words many times before, even sometimes from myself. I have moments…

God Of Joy

Oh Lord, God of joy soul-flying, heart-bursting joy, We pray for an outpouring of Your Spirit on this next generation. May they be joyful warriors for Your Kingdom May they…

Free from Excess

How We’re Learning By Jennifer Wake Hi ho, hi ho, off to purge I go! MOVING TIME! That statement always strikes deep into my heart. Beyond worrying about the new…

Praying Ephesians 6

Praying with Ephesians 6 today: To You, the King, eternal, immortal, invisible, You are the only God; to You be honor and glory for ever and ever! You hold life…

Why So Much Beauty?

Lord, we can ask “why so much ugliness in the world?” But, like Ann Voskamp points out, we can also ask “why so much beauty?” Why the colors of the…

Free to Jump

How We’re Learning By Kori Yates Finding your heart’s desire What is that one thing that burns in your heart to do? That thing that just won’t let you go?…

Praying Over Children

Praying ‘Every Giant Will Fall’ with Rend Collective this week: I can see the Promised Land Though there’s pain within the plan There is victory in the end Your love…

Free from Conflict

How We’re Learning By Brenda Pace Being a Peacemaker Free from conflict—yeah, right! I sure wish this was or even could be true. Although I have met a few people…

Praying II Samuel 22

Praying with excerpts from II Samuel 22 for our warriors this week:   The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom…

Truth in the Midst of the Mess

***It is with great delight that I welcome my dear friend, Margaret Franklin, back to the Worship Wednesday table today. To be honest, I am pretty sure she has one…

Free from Inner Chaos

How We’re Learning By Muriel Gregory Stress Anyone? May 2002 was a busy month. I gave birth to our third child four days after taking my finals for college. June…

Thy Faithfulness

Great is Thy faithfulness, O God My Father, There is no shadow of turning with Thee; Thou changest not, Thy compassions they fail not; As Thou hast been Thou forever…

A Call to Be Brave – Part 1

What am I doing? I don’t belong here. What lie have I bought into that made me think I could – or even should – do this? As we drove…

Courage Even when I don’t Feel Brave

Courage (Even when I don’t feel brave)   So, the last of the boxes have been carted away. Everything has found a space to reside…more or less. The curtains are…

Free from Bondage

How We’re Learning By Claudia Duff Independence Day For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery. Galatians 5:1…

Free From Heart Disease

How We’re Learning By Muriel Gregory Heart Disease The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately sick; who can understand it? Jeremiah 17:9 Heart disease is the leading cause…

Praying for Our Children

We prayed for their existence for the spark of their tiny hearts for their development for their birth for their growth for their health for their first steps for their…

Do It Again

***Today for Worship Wednesday I welcome Kayla Atkins, Worship Coordinator for Planting Roots, back to continue her story…from tragedy to triumph. Thank you, Kayla, for bringing your heart and testimony…

Free from Guilt

How We’re Learning by Kori Yates Saved by LOVE I feel like a horrible friend. When I had a birthday, my friend remembered. She showed up at my door with…

Praying Psalm 97

Praying with Psalm 97 today: The Lord reigns,  let the earth be glad; let the distant shores rejoice.   We are glad You reign in Iraq, Afghanistan, Korea. We rejoice…

Who’s Got Your Back?

I froze with fear, overlooking paradise. While serving at Barbers Point Naval Air Station, Hawaii, my best friends Vicky and Steve decided to climb the Stairway to Heaven or Haʻikū…

Living Settled in a Transitory Life

Lord, I don’t know if I can do this again. I’m weary and worn from the transitions in this military life. After all the moves, I’m too tired to pack…

Free from Fear and Isolation

How We’re Learning By Claudia Duff When The Only Way Out Is Through “For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a…

Almighty God, how You have blessed us!

Almighty God, how You have blessed us! How blessed we are to have warm, comfy beds and a peaceful night’s sleep. How blessed we are to wake to a land…

Reaching Across the Ocean

Reaching Across the Ocean I couldn’t be there. My sister just recently walked through a very difficult time. It was a season of strange, scary, and completely unknown. With my…

Free to Rejoice

How We’re Learning By Kori Yates Celebrate Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice! (Philippians 4:4) I am an optimist. In “spiritual talk,” one of my spiritual…

God, You are…

In my worry, God You are my stillness In my searching, God You are my answers In my blindness, God You are my vision In my bondage, God You are…

Left Behind: the Other Side of Moving Season

***It is with great pleasure that I welcome my dear friend, Margaret Franklin, back to our Worship Wednesday table. I just love this woman’s heart – for the Body of…

Significant

We stood on the edge of the green grass that day and looked out over the white crosses. My mind imagined the faces of young men who never went home….

Let everything that has breath praise the Lord

Let everything that has breath praise the Lord Let the soldier in the field praise the Lord Let the sailor on the seas praise the Lord Let the airman in…

I Will Praise You in this Storm

***Today for Worship Wednesday, please welcome our guest writer and Worship Coordinator for Planting Roots, Kayla Atkins. This sweet lady has a heart of gold and a spirit that hungers…

Free to Remove Our Masks

How We’re Learning By Muriel Gregory The Masks We Wear “You therefore must be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect.” Matthew 5:48 There I was again, scanning through my…

You are the One….

  From the mountains of Italy to the swamps of Louisiana, From the plains of Kansas to the beaches of Okinawa, You are where we want to be, and where…

Not Afraid…Not Anymore

Not Afraid…Not Anymore   Oh yeah, I know what fear feels like. I know what it sounds like, too. I have heard the lies that reverberate around the walls of…

Free From the Fear of Growing Old(er)

How We’re Learning By Brenda Pace Embrace the Process On the recent occasion of turning ahem, cough, cough older, I revisited goals I set several years ago when I could no…

Heavy Hearts

When our hearts are heavy, when the needs are many, when the words won’t come, You are there, dear Lord Jesus. And You give us the words to say. And…

Happy Mother’s Day?

Perspective. It’s all in how you look at it, right? When my Dufflings were littles, cleaning their own rooms was a daily chore. I’m not talking the spit shined shoes…

Remembering God’s Word

Remembering   I have been a Christian now for over 25 years. I have craved and devoured the Word like it was literally food and water. I have dedicated my…

Praying Psalm 93

Praying with Psalm 93 today: The Lord reigns, He is robed in majesty; The Lord is robed in majesty and armed with strength; indeed, the world is established, firm and…

From Hosanna to Hallelujah!

***Today, for Worship Wednesday, please welcome my dear friend, Margaret Franklin, to the table. Her heart for the Lord and for her family is so very beautiful to me and…

How to Be Free from Lack, Want, and Need

How We’re Learning By Claudia Duff Where Did I Put That? It is the losses that keep you up at night. I lose things a lot, like every day. I…

God of the Universe,

God of the Universe, God of the little things– You provide the plankton to feed the whale You design each crystal of the snowflake You see the tiny mushroom and…

God who sees

God who sees: who sees the little boy in the Chinese orphanage who sees the little girl hiding under her bed who sees the tiny fingers uncurling in the womb…

New Ears

New Ears   “Heal and restore me, God…” I whispered desperately. My plan and my body was falling apart. So, I spoke into that broken space and asked for what…

Tax Day

For many people Tax Day or April 15 is a day they dread. I am one of the people who looks forward to Tax Day. I am a tax preparer….

Free from Weariness

How We’re Learning By Muriel Gregory   Adversity Truly, truly, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains alone; but if…

Praying Habakkuk 3

Praying with excerpts from Habakkuk 3 today:   Lord, I have heard of Your fame; I stand in awe of Your deeds, Lord.   Timely storms that hid troops. Clear skies…

Home

Home   I grew up in the military as an Army BRAT. We moved a lot. Now, after 22 years as a military spouse, I can honestly say that I…

Free to Be a Giant

How We’re Learning By Kori Yates How to Become a Tree I feel stuck. I want to be strong and mighty, a faithful, mature child of the King. Yet, I…

Father God,

Father God, You could have just shrugged, turned away, and started over somewhere else. You could have said, “I told you so. Serves you right.” You could have said, “You…

Jesus Wins

Jesus Wins   Ever feel like you just can’t do enough or be enough to make up for the deficit within this hurting world? I mean, you know it’s not…

Free to Share the Gospel

How We’re Learning By Jennifer Wake   The Day after Easter Springtime is amazing. New plants, new life, newness! It is wonderful to walk outside and see change. Plants come…

He Is Risen

Lord Jesus Conquerer over sin and death, With joy we proclaim He is risen!  I don’t have to sit hopelessly in my shame I don’t have to work constantly to make…

Hardest Prayers of a Mother

The concept for today’s prayer came from a worship pastor, but I can’t  find the source… So, shameless plagiarism here. Also, I want to join the “hardest prayers of a…

Determined Not to Miss This

Determined Not to Miss This We all have them. Measuring sticks. Literally or figuratively, we size up the spaces around, behind, and in front of us. Yeah. We like the…

What to Do When Performance Becomes a Prison

How We’re Learning by Ginger Harrington Free From Trying to Get Ourselves Together My good friend stands at the mailbox, holding the weight of too many burdens on her shoulders….

Before the Throne of Grace

Click here to sing with Selah today: Before the throne of God above I have a strong and perfect plea A great High Priest whose name is love Who ever…

Stories and Scars

Stories and Scars   I know it’s not about me. Really, I do. But in the middle of it…the cutting, bruising, jarring, shocking, disappointing…it is tempting to focus on the…

How to Color in the Lines

How We’re Learning By Kori Yates   Freedom with boundaries In first grade, coloring was important. It was a developmental skill that was necessary for many reasons, but for me…

God of the Heavenly Armies

God of the Heavenly Armies, As our soldiers climb mountains in Afghanistan, kick in doors in Iraq, march on Korean soil, patrol the streets in Somalia, and everywhere fight against…

Stronger Next Year

Stronger Next Year     No unbelief made him (Abraham) waver concerning the promise of God, but he grew strong in his faith as he gave glory to God, fully…

Free to Be Authentic

How We’re Learning By Adrienne Terrebonne   Free From People Pleasing Did you know that people-pleasing is actually a sin? Galatians 1:10 (NASB) says this: “Am I now trying to…

Praying Revelation 8

“Another angel, who had a golden censer, came and stood at the altar. He was given much incense to offer, with the prayers of all God’s people, on the golden…

When Worry Doesn’t Work

When Worry Doesn’t Work The orders came in. The bottom line wasn’t one we asked for. It certainly wasn’t on our “dream sheet.” I mean, seriously – why do they…

Free from “I Should”

How We’re Learning by Brenda Pace On too many days than I care to count, my self-talk begins, “Brenda, you really should be farther along in your spiritual walk.” Or,…

Praying I Peter 1

“…love one another deeply, from the heart… All people are like grass, and all their glory is like the flowers of the field; the grass withers, the flowers fall, but…

Living with Eyes Wide Open

Living with Eyes Wide Open   I’ve been in ministry actively for over 20 years now. Married for even longer than that, with three beautiful children I have had the…

Free to Live an Honorable Life

How We’re Learning By Muriel Gregory   Making a good impression in a hostile world. 18 June 2002 is my American birthday. I remember the three hour drive with my…

Prayer for homesickness

Disturb us, Lord, when We are too well pleased with ourselves, When our dreams have come true Because we have dreamed too little, When we arrived safely Because we sailed…

Mud and Vision

Mud and Vision   “Perspective.” Confession time…that word used to seriously get on my nerves. “You just need to get the right perspective,” they would say. My skin would crawl…

Brave is My Word

How We’re Learning By Claudia Duff   Free to be… Brave. BRAVE, is my *one word* for this year. At first glance it looks quite glamorous, but dig a bit…

O Great Creator

O Great Creator, I ask You to re-create me. Make me courageous where You find fear, Patient instead of controlling, Totally sold out instead of cautious, selfish. Make me willing…

The True Score

The True Score   Let’s face it, “truth” is relative. At least it is in much of our society. Everyone has an opinion. And in the name of “freedom,” many…

Praying Psalm 118

Praying with excerpts from Psalm 118 today: Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His love endures forever. Let the Air Force say, “His love endures forever.” Let…

How to Move Forward When You Feel Stuck

How We’re Learning by Ginger Harrington   Free from the past Four years ago a few women met to talk about big dreams, casting a vision for the future. With…

Lord, We need You…

Lord we need You–even to love You! The Great I Am is truly our all in all. And we ask for Your continued mercy on our days. When we scream…

Beholding

Beholding   The New Year. There it is. Cyclical. Every year and every moment swinging around to remind and astound me…again. The God of the universe coming down. The One…

We Sing Hallelujah

If You can make the cross beautiful, If You can turn mourning into dancing, If You can raise glory from ashes, If You can turn failure into character, weakness into…

Small…but not small

Small…but not small “You?” she asked with raised eyebrows. “What could you possibly say to encourage anyone, let alone me?” It was a brutally honest question, unfettered with pleasantries. She…

Freedom Comes with Responsibility

Galatians 5:1 – It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery. Freedom…

God In Heaven

God in heaven, Who do we have in heaven but You? Where else could we turn for courage? Who else could give us strength? Where could we find wisdom that…

The Long Game

The Long Game   I am not a patient person. To the people who know me well, this is not a newsflash. The speed that comes naturally for me is…

Free to Be Brave

Galatians 5:1 – It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery. Freedom….

O King Eternal,

Lead on, O King eternal, The day of march has come; Henceforth in fields of conquest Thy tents shall be our home. Through days of preparation Thy grace has made…

When God Says, “Nothing.”

  It had happened again. I was on trial before the jurors of my field, and my sentence was read. “Not Hired.” Only it wasn’t read; instead, yet again, the…

Merry Christmas!

The day of celebration has arrived, a day for which we’ve been waiting and anticipating! As we’ve walked through the Christmas Devotional, Finding the Holy in the Holiday, we’ve seen…

Finding the Holy in the Holiday: Day 24

Upon His Shoulder Key Bible Passage: For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name…

A Christmas Prayer

All is well. Because of Your love All can be well, all will be well, and all is well Lord help us hold to that as the rush and roar…

Finding the Holy in the Holiday: Day 23

The Favor of God Key Scripture Passage: And when they had performed everything according to the Law of the Lord, they returned into Galilee, to their own town of Nazareth….

Finding the Holy in the Holiday: Day 22

In My Father’s House Key Bible Passage: And [Jesus] said to them, “Why were you looking for me? Did you not know that I must be in my Father’s house?”…

Finding the Holy in the Holiday: Day 21

Out of Egypt I Called My Son Key Bible Passage:  Now when they had departed, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream and said, “Rise,…

Finding the Holy in the Holiday: Day 20

Joyed with Great Joy Key Bible Passage: When they [the wise men] saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy. And going into the house they saw the child…

Finding the Holy in the Holiday: Day 19

For So It is Written Key Bible Passage: Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, wise men from the east…

Finding the Holy in the Holiday: Day 18

The Redemption of Jerusalem Key Bible Passage: And there was a prophetess, Anna, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was advanced in years, having lived with…

Finding the Holy in the Holiday: Day 17

My Eyes Have Seen Your Salvation Key Bible Passage: Now there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon, and this man was righteous and devout, waiting for the…

Finding the Holy in the Holiday: Day 16

The Law of the Lord Key Bible Passage:  And when the time came for their purification according to the Law of Moses, they brought him up to Jerusalem to present…

Finding the Holy in the Holiday: Day 15

Treasured Thoughts  Key Bible Passage:  But Mary treasured up all these things, pondering them in her heart. (Luke 2:19) Reflect: What is it about Christmas that makes us smile, slow…

Finding the Holy in the Holiday: Day 14

Glory to God in the Highest Key Bible Passage: And in the same region there were shepherds out in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And an…

Finding the Holy in the Holiday: Day 13

Firstborn Son  Key Bible Passage:  In those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. This was the first registration when Quirinius was…

Finding the Holy in the Holiday: Day 12

Who is Called Christ  Key Bible Passage: …and Jacob the father of Joseph the husband of Mary, of whom Jesus was born, who is called Christ. (Matthew 1:16) Reflect: Some…

Finding the Holy in the Holiday: Day 11

God My Savior Key Bible Passage: And Mary said, “My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior.” (Luke 1:46-47) Reflect: Music time! Are you one of…

Finding the Holy in the Holiday: Day 10

Filled with the Holy Spirit  Key Bible Passage: In those days Mary arose and went with haste into the hill country, to a town in Judah, and she entered the…

Finding the Holy in the Holiday: Day 9

Blessed be the Lord God of Israel  Key Bible Passage: “Blessed be the Lord God of Israel, for he has visited and redeemed his people and has raised up a…

Finding the Holy in the Holiday: Day 8

In the Presence of God Key Bible Passage: And there appeared to him an angel of the Lord standing on the right side of the altar of incense. And Zechariah…

Finding the Holy in the Holiday: Day 7

The Son of God  Key Bible Passage: And the angel answered her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; therefore…

Finding the Holy in the Holiday: Day 6

Immanuel Means God With Us Key Bible Passage: She [Mary] will bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins….

Finding the Holy in the Holiday: Day 5

  Fulfilled Among Us Key Bible Passage: Many have undertaken to draw up an account of the things that have been fulfilled among us, just as they were handed down to…

Finding the Holy in the Holiday: Day 4

Fulfilled in Christ Key Bible Passage: For all of God’s promises have been fulfilled in Christ with a resounding “Yes!” And through Christ, our “Amen” (which means “Yes”) ascends to God…

Finding the Holy in the Holiday: Day 3

Alive in Christ Key Bible Passage: “For as in Adam all die, so also in Christ shall all be made alive.” (1 Corinthians 15:22) Reflect: What does this somber verse have…

Finding the Holy in the Holiday: Day 2

  The Word Became Flesh Key Bible Passage: And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the…

Finding the Holy in the Holiday: Day 1

  Christ the Lord Key Bible Passage: And the angel said to them [the shepherds], “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for…

Finding the Holy in the Holiday: A Christmas Devotional

We are so excited here at Planting Roots. Our amazing Bible study team has developed a Christmas Devotional called Finding the Holy in the Holiday. It is a 24-day, gospel-centered…

Stepping Away form the Mic

Stepping Away from the Mic   As a vocalist and worship leader, the semantics of where I stand in front of the microphone has been drilled into me. Through many…

I’m In

  “Me too” are two powerful words that create immediate connection. In a matter of minutes, these two words can turn strangers into friends. Don’t think so? Our military world…

How to be Grateful for Everything

How We’re Learning by Brenda Pace    Thank you for the world so sweet. Thank you for the food we eat. Thank you for the birds that sing. Thank you…

Mary’s Prayer Luke 1

Let’s pray with Mary in Luke 1:46-53 today: My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, Yes Lord yes! Today we stop and praise You….

Going Gray

It’s everywhere these days! The “in” color for walls, clothing, and even your head. It used to be that women would stress over the first sign of gray hair –…

With a Thankful Heart

  Thanksgiving makes my heart full and at times heavy, all at the same time. “Over the river and through the woods, to grandmother’s house we go…” As a military…

The Art of Remembering

The Art of Remembering The Presence of the Lord is intimate. He sees all of me and smiles anyway. His tenderness, even when I am full of shards and broken…

How to Express Gratitude to Friends

How We’re learning by Larissa Traquair There couldn’t be another topic that gets me more excited than sharing about being GR8TFUL for friends. See, gratitude is my jam. It is…

Our Great God,

Our Great God, We get lost in the dark and forget You hold the stars. We get enamored with glitter and forget Your throne above all. We get overwhelmed by…

Join us!

Here at Planting Roots, we are an all-volunteer force of Christian military women. God has humbly used us to do some really cool things. And in return we have had…

Stones and Declarations

Stones and Declarations Recently, in my quiet moments with Jesus, I have been reading through the Gospels. I love to read about God with flesh on. How He moved, how…

How to Show Gratitude to Your Spouse

How We’re Learning by Kori Yates We stood in the kitchen and I was stinking mad. Things had just not worked like I had planned that day. I shared my…

Veteran’s Day

  One million eight hundred fifty-three thousand six hundred ninety. 1,853,690. Seems like a big number, right? It’s the number of female veterans in the United States today. While being…

Missing the Point

Missing the Point   Ever wanna know the heart of God? Wanna lean in close and know what He desires for our lives on this feeble fleeting earth? “Teacher, which…

God Of the Winds

God of the winds, the One Who moves the storms and sends the tickling breeze, Who lifts the monarch on its way and rolls the waves in, Who blows in…

All We Need to Know

All We Need To Know “I just don’t know how I’m going to hold it all together!” She lamented more to herself than to me. Without a word, I watched…

How to Change Your Focus

How We’re Learning by Muriel Gregory   I walked away from the conversation in complete disbelief. Tears of frustration were welling up in my eyes. I could not believe that…

You Are…

Trying to earn, trying to prove, trying to fix, trying to take care of, trying to control. When every missed appointment screams failure, when the to-do list never gets anything…

The Opposite of Crushing

The Opposite of Crushing   It was powerful. It was raw. And it ‘bout knocked me off my chair. Right there in the conference hall, I watched their stories unfold…

How to Grow in Community

How We’re Learning by Kori Yates Being an introvert by nature, sometimes this military life can be challenging. I move to a new duty station regularly and then have to…

O Praise the Name

Praying today with Hillsong’s O Praise the Name. Click here to sing along! I cast my mind to Calvary Where Jesus bled and died for me. I see His wounds,…

What If?

  As we hit our three-year anniversary here at Planting Roots, I wanted to share that very first blog post. This is the “why” of Planting Roots. This is what…

What We All Need To Hear

What We All Need to Hear Have you ever walked through a season that was just harder than you ever felt prepared to handle? Feeling lost in the muck and…

How to Be an Encourager

How We’re Learning by Adrienne Terrebonne As the wife of an airman, moving has become second-nature. Usually by the third year of living in the same town, I am itching…

Great is Thy Faithfulness

Through the thud of bullets, the explosion of bombs, the cries– Great is Thy Faithfulness Through the plane crashes, shootings, the beheadings– Great is Thy Faithfulness Through the posturing, the…

Learning to Lean

Learning to Lean “What is your occupation?” she asked. This seemingly innocent and sterile question echoed around the chambers of my heart as I struggled to pin the answer down….

How to Cultivate Kindness

How We’re Learning by Brenda Pace As a good southern girl, I was raised to be nice—or in southern terms sweet. The south is known for its sweet tea and…

New Generations

Ah Lord, as tiny eyes flutter open and little mouths open for their first cry– as they start the song of their new life, we thank You. We are amazed…

Motherhood and God’s Grace

  I am frustrated. I am tired. I am worn out. I am doing this thing called motherhood and I feel like I am failing at it. And failing at…

Who We Are…Forgiven

Who We Are   Forgiven. This. This gift. This declaration. This Truth about who we are and what has been laid upon our brokenness and shame is the most life-altering…

How to Learn from Painful Growth and Pruning

How We’re Learning By Muriel Gregory   O Lord, you have searched me and known me! You know when I sit down and when I rise up; You discern my…

Praying from Revelation

Let’s pray with verses from Revelation this week: Great and marvelous are your deeds, Lord God Almighty. Just and true are your ways, King of the nations. When there are…

Guest Post: Reintegration and God’s Strength

Our family is all in one place. We are together. We should be happy. We aren’t. I feel guilty about that. I prayed for my husband to return. I long…

Backwards Math

  Backwards Math   Wanna know what the secret to joy in the Christian life is? Every year, countless sermons, devotionals, and blogs dole out steps to inching closer to…

How to Live the Christian Military Life

  How We’re Learning by Kristin Goodrich I’m military. To tell or not to tell, that is the question. You know, when you wrestle to tell a “friend candidate” or…

All Creatures of Our God

To the God who shines in our lives like the morning sun burning away the fog To the God who makes the dragonfly’s wings sparkle To the God who sets…

Guest Post: Military Marriage and God’s Grace

  My Christian military marriage is mediocre. And I’m sad. The past few years have brought a number of challenges. We’re in the season of life where our parents are…

A Deliberate Choice

A Deliberate Choice   Just the other day, as I drove down the familiar road towards home, a song came on the radio. I hadn’t heard it before. The melody…

How to Study with Different Translations

How We’re Learning by Kori Yates Growing up, I learned Scripture from the King James Version. As I got older, I found reading the New International Version was easier to…

Children’s prayer

You asked for my hands, that You might use them for Your purpose. I gave them for a moment, then withdrew them, for the work was hard. You asked for…

Because it Matters

One moment can change everything. We can all replay those moments in time that have forever changed our lives. Whether someone asked you to marry them, you rescued someone from…

A Hard-Won Truth

A Hard-Won Truth   I like order. Ask my family or anyone who knows me well. It’s true. Fact is, I work pretty hard to create order – to make…

Hearing to Obey

How We’re Learning by Christine Malkemes I was in Turkey, working in NATO. I had just come home a little weary. My little son and I were waiting for his father…

Universal Lord

Lord, You have promised You will never leave us or forsake us, so we pray You will be with our warriors in Korea in Iraq in Afghanistan in Europe on…

Asking

Asking   Just when I think I’ve seen a miracle, that there just couldn’t be something more wonderful or more faithful or more merciful…there it is. And just when I…

How to View Marriage as a Work of Extravagant Love and Extreme Forgiveness

How We’re learning By Claudia Duff   “Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its…

Higher than the Mountains

Because we need a love that never fails, that never gives up, that never runs out. Because we’re facing mountains and graves, and we need something constant, some One who…

The Sound of Surviving

The Sound of Surviving There’s a picture in my mind that just doesn’t match up with the life I find myself living. This picture resembles a movie clip from Wonder…

How to Practice Sabbath Rest

How We’re Learning  by Brenda Pace A peek into my journal: “This morning I sit in silence. The banishment of spoken word will not last all day, but for these…

Heavenly Father,

Heavenly Father, the One who loves our children more than we could ever imagine, to You we pray for them. Lord, as this new school year starts, we pray for…

A Momma Story

A Momma Story (with a redemptive ending)   ***What you are about to read is a recap of a day that unfolded several years ago. My kids were really little,…

How to Sabbath

How We’re Learning by Kori Yates The Sabbath has been a topic of conversation since Old Testament times. If you’re expecting a clarification of all of those discussions and definitive…

Lord of All

Lord, for the sailors in the depths of the seas and on the oceans of endless blue, for the marines in the jungles and the soldiers in the mountains or…

Story

Movies tell a story. Heroism or heartbreak, victory or defeat, we love to watch stories, both imagined and true-to-life. Recently, some great movies have come out, and obviously some not-so-good….

Wholehearted

Wholehearted   Loving with your whole heart is not for the faint of heart. Shoot, even the stout-hearted can wrestle with whole-heartedness. It’s vulnerable. Sometimes beautiful, sometimes raw, but it…

How to Depend on Christ

How We’re Learning by Muriel Gregory How often have you felt overwhelmed by life? How many times have you looked at your to-do list and wanted to crawl back in…

God of the universe

God of the universe, God of the little things You provide the plankton to feed the whale. You design each crystal of the snowflake. You see the tiny mushroom, and…

Good or Best?

Courage. That’s what it takes to do what God has asked of me. It takes courage to step into the unknown, to set out on unclear paths, trusting His guidance….

In Spite of Myself

In Spite of Myself   I just knew I wasn’t going to make it. There was no way to navigate, no way to avoid the scarring or the jarring that…

How to Follow God’s Directions

How We’re Learning by Claudia Duff When you join the military, even as a dependent, there are a lot of rules along with a steep learning curve, but somehow we…

We come to You

I seek the gift, find instead the Giver, and eventually come away with the gift I no longer seek. My own emphasis in prayer has moved from petition to companionship,…

Mighty Servants

  I am a much better blabber than blogger, but when I was asked if I was interested in writing a guest blog for Planting Roots I absolutely had to…

He Is Calling Me

He Is Calling Me “The unfolding of your words gives light; it gives understanding to the simple.” Psalm 119:130 Recently, a friend asked me for prayer and she expressed her…

How to Study a Specific Topic: Mind Mapping

How We’re Learning by Kori Yates Studying a Specific Topic Sometimes my life runs in themes. Does yours do that? You know, when you read something in your Bible, a…

It’s Not about Me…Thank Goodness!

It’s Not About Me (Thank goodness!)   I wasn’t always a Christian. I didn’t grow up in church or Sunday School. I love when I hear stories of believers testifying…

How to Hear God through People

How We’re Learning by Deb Blackburn My quiet time is one of my favorite times to listen and hear God, but it isn’t the only time He speaks. I hear…

Killin’ It

Killin’ It   I am a military wife. I am a homeschooling, box-packin’ (and un-packin’), commissary rockin’, chapel lovin’, sisterhood sharin’, Bible breathin’, hands lifted worshipin’, and God-fearin’ woman. I…

Stop, Look, and Listen: Overcoming Negative Emotions

How We’re Learning by Andrea Plotner What types of things cause anger or anxiety to rise up within you? The story I’m about to share sounds comical now, but had…

Two Ways to Thrive

What am I going to do? I ask myself this question about this same time every year. It’s the middle of summer. Activities have slowed down a bit, we have…

Releasing That Brings Receiving

Releasing That Brings Receiving “What are you most resistant to let go of?” she asked matter-of-factly. My eyes darted to the floor. Immediately, I began to wrestle. The question hung…

Use Your Words

“Use Your Words!” If I had a $1 for every time I have used these 3 words over the last 5 weeks, I would be on a cruise right about…

Don’t Refuse God’s Affection in Your Affliction

  My son’s alligator tears soaked the navy blue pillow case and his sobbing shook the bed, as I tried to comfort him to sleep. We were about to PCS…

The Right Direction For Hope

The Right Direction For Hope “Don’t get your hopes up.” I’ve heard the warning, felt the pessimism creep into the cracks. There’s a good chance you have, at one point…

Freedom and Liberty

Freedom and Liberty are more than mere words. They have been the catalyst for revolutions, insurrections, and all kinds of shenanigans that cause people to fight to the death if…

How to Maximize Your Quiet Time

How We’re Learning by Muriel Gregory Quiet time. I hear you, moms of toddlers and preschoolers, wondering what quiet is. I also hear you, wife of a deployed soldier, with…

What Happens When God Calls Us to Stay Put?

It’s PCS season again and today I found myself saying goodbye to two of my closest friends. This time though, my perspective is different. You see, my husband retired 2…

Impacting Eternity

Impacting Eternity -Written by Missy Wainman Guest Writer and Planting Roots Worship Team Member I attended a homeschool convention this winter with some friends of mine. This is our 5th…

Help and Hope for PTSD

  PTSD The acronym for posttraumatic stress disorder has become too common in usage among military personnel and their families. Perhaps if I type the letters in lower case they…

How to Pray Using A Journal

How We’re Learning by Kori Yates The reminder of what God has done gives me stronger faith today. Over the years, God has answered many prayers of my heart, both…

Cracks and Grace

Cracks and Grace Brokenness is part of the puzzle. It’s part of this flesh package. And each broken piece, in the hands of our loving Savior, has the power to…

A Sacrifice of Praise

A Conversation with Sarah McKinney   “It is all about making the right list,” whispered Sarah as she took a sip of her tea. We were catching up. Sharing life….

The Enemy of Apathy

It’s summertime. Don’t you love it? I do…mostly. I love sunshine and days at the pool. I love more relaxed schedules and opportunities to travel more. I love the warmth…

Holy Courage

Holy Courage Well…now I know. In my life, what I give permission to can be the very thing that holds me captive. Recently, a person I trusted and cared for…

Run to God

What I’m Learning by Melissa Hicks   Can you think of a time when you felt the rug was pulled out from under you? Recently my daughter’s pre-K teacher requested…

Restoring Wonder

Restoring Wonder I know. I’m bordering on broken-record-ness. God is good. Repeat. Repeat again. What more can I say, really? Well…I don’t know about you, but I am a forgetful,…

Too Weary to Be All In?

“My husband is going TDY tomorrow. He’ll be gone for 3 weeks,” she told me as her three kids ran around the room. Her statement was matter of fact, but…

When the Assignment Feels More Like Exile

We finally got our orders. And I confess, I wasn’t particularly thrilled with the destination. Yes, I know God goes before and prepares a place and has a perfect plan….

Liberation

Liberation Don’t you ever get tired of, well…yourself? I do. I am. Sometimes as the weight and weary press against my nerves and my heart beats heavy with the mantle…

How to Get More Mileage Out of a Sunday Sermon

How I’m Learning by Larissa Traquair Listening doesn’t come naturally to me. Sunday sermons were often a time of day dreaming as my mind wandered. I struggled to pay attention…

Sovereignty–Part 2

  (If you missed it, you can read part one of Sovereignty here.) What God is doing here is not blame-shifting or passing the buck on the “weeds in his…

A Growing Clarity

A Growing Clarity Something I am pierced by these days is the growing clarity that much of my life has been poured out for the wrong things. My alabaster jar…

Letting Go with All In Faith

Monday Minute with God: What I’m Learning by Dawn Hoffman Let It Go! No, I’m not going to break out in song. You see, I’ve always had a problem with letting…

Sovereignty–Part 1

Sovereignty. It’s a weighty word with an even weightier meaning. We sometimes hear it used in sermons. We occasionally run across it in a Bible study or devotional reading. And…

Wonder

Wonder Standing in awe, captured by the light, by the glory, by the awesomeness of God. I look to the heavens, to the mountains, to the bursting color of spring…

Surrender What?

Monday Minute with God: What I’m Learning by Muriel Gregory The last conversation I had with my husband was running through my mind. The 8-hour drive in front of me allowed…

Celebrating Military Spouse Day

On April 17, 1984 President Ronald Reagan honored the sacrifices and commitment military spouses make to the readiness and well-being of the United States military members by establishing Proclamation 5184…

Dying Well

Dying Well “I used to live my life with the goal of ‘living well,’” He said. I leaned in, anticipating the “but” I sensed was coming. “But now,” he continued,…

Gifts

Gift giving is not my strong point. You all know those people who bring you the perfect little gift and tell you they saw it and thought of you. I…

Finding Contentment in Military Life Through Gratitude

Monday Minute with God: What I’m Learning by Larissa Traquair In October of 2012, God put it on my heart to start focusing on gratitude, via social media. Every year…

A Special Day For Our Wonderful Military Spouses

On April 17, 1984 President Ronald Reagan honored the sacrifices and commitment military spouses make to the readiness and well-being of the United States military members by establishing Proclamation 5184…

Even If You Don’t

Even If You Don’t   How can you sing the lyric, “It is well with my soul,” when the answer is long in coming? Or perhaps when the answer is…

Love Me More

Like usual, it happened during worship. The Lord used the proverbial 2’x4’ board whack upside my head, the weapon of choice when I’m being really stubborn. I had a thought…

Throne Room

Throne Room   It is here that I am at rest. It is here that I have perspective. This is where my soul longs to linger. It doesn’t belong to…

“Women Can’t Fight” – His Manifesto and My Legacy

Former Senator James Webb published an article, “Women Can’t Fight,” on Nov. 1, 1979 in the Washingtonian magazine. At that time, the first classes integrated with females were just six…

I Know I’m Not Strong Enough

Monday Minute with God: What I’m Learning by Leanne Hunley I just left the bookstore crying. Until this moment, today has been one of those memorable days that fill the pages…

How Great Is Your Love

How Great Is Your Love He nailed it. I just stood there blinking, struck by the simplicity, wowed by the enormity. I heard it loud and clear. The walls of…

Fresh Mercy

Monday Minute With God: What I’m Learning by Brenda Pace While walking through a local craft fair, my eyes fell upon a piece of stamped jewelry. Typically, I stop to…

Fresh Water

Fresh Water “Thank you for being patient with me,” he tearfully said. I bowed my head in silent gratitude and thanked the God of breakthroughs. “And you with me,” I…

The Parts Box

Every time we move we have one of these. No doubt you have too. It’s the smaller box they use for parts of things the movers have disassembled. That’s its…

Trusting God is My All In Choice for Every Day

Monday Minute with God: What I’m Learning by Deb Blackburn He’s home!  For so long, we’ve been praying for my husband to return from this last mobilization.  It’s actually here. I’m happy…

The Heart that Waits

The Heart that Waits   The words that follow poured out of my heart years ago. Yet, as I stumbled across them again, tears flowed fresh as I remembered the…

Finding My Fill

What I’m Learning by Jennifer Moye I never struggled with self-confidence until I became a mom. One would think that having three kids and two deployments in three years either……

Taking Courage

Taking Courage Wait upon the Lord. No. Not yet. Be still and know that I am God (Psalm 46:10). These gentle whispers from the Lover of my soul have never swallowed…

Learning to Yield in Obedience

Monday Minute with God: What I’m Learning by Adrienne Terrebone My husband recently returned from a six-month deployment. A deployment that was extremely difficult on many levels for me and my…

That I May

That I May   “Why do you worship?” The question just hung in the air, lingering longer than my skin preferred. I felt my soul lean in close so as…

All Jesus Wants of Me is My “Not Enough”

What I’m Learning by Muriel Gregory   One thing I struggled with the most in military life was the feeling of not being good enough. The creepy sensation that I…

Where Strength Comes From

Where Strength Comes From   Grace. Such a powerful word, really. Defined as the “free and unmerited favor of God,” it is a gift that is freely applied to each…

Humility in a World of Entitlement

She made me mad. I was visiting this lovely installation for only a few days. With the rain pouring down outside, I just wanted to stop in at the library…

Nail Your Colours To The Mast!

What I’m Learning by Claudia Duff When my husband enlisted in the Navy I bought a shirt that proclaimed for all to see, “Navy Wife – The Toughest Job In…

Living the Surrendered Life

We have a dog. We have a dog and his name is Chief. He is an adorable 75+ pound chocolate lab who is convinced he is a lapdog. We affectionately…

Read Your Bible Like You’re Coming Home

How We’re Learning by Ginger Harrington There’s no place like home. The military is a mobile lifestyle with moves, TDYs, and deployments. Our home may move from place to place, but…

What I Have Been Given

What I Have Been Given     My journey is my own, but I would venture to say that when it comes down to it, it doesn’t look much different…

I Choose to Trust

I watched anxiously as my husband backed out of the driveway, leaving on an eight-hour drive to Tennessee. He was headed to look at a few houses in preparation for…

Breaking Out of Ordinary

Monday Minute with God: What I’m Learning by Kori Yates   When they saw the courage of Peter and John and realized that they were unschooled, ordinary men, they were astonished…

Redeeming Still

Redeeming Still   So much in this world seems, well… broken. No matter where you look, evidence of hurt and broken lives are everywhere. From the news channels to our…

When You’re Waiting on God’s Timing

 Monday Minute With God: What I’m Learning by Jennifer Wake   In fall and spring many military families are awaiting orders to PCS. Our family usually gets orders about 60 days…

Fierce Love

Fierce Love   Inevitably, every time February forces itself upon my calendar I see the evidence of its mark – in commercials, in the commissary, in Walmart. Red hearts…heart balloons,…

Celebrating the Greatest Love Ever This Valentine’s Day

What I’m Learning by Sherry Eifler   Happy Valentines! This is the perfect time to consider the greatest love story ever. In my opinion none can compare. It is the story…

What’s the Point?

What’s the Point?   What’s it all for anyway? The sacrifice, the obedience, the endurance, the following hard after Jesus. Let’s be honest. Sometimes being a Christian is hard. Sometimes…

A Case of Mistaken Identity

What I’m Learning by Andrea Plotner    I love hiking. Earlier this year I visited a friend stationed in Hawaii (!) who tries out a new trail every week. Go…

Perspective

Perspective   Perspective. Such a good word. Something we all crave and even pray for. I know I do. Yet it is something that can so easily get lost. At…

What’s New on Monday Minute with God

Can I share a story with you that hurts my heart? Beth is a new believer, excited to know more about Jesus. A military gal, she’s seen her share of  challenges…

Golden Ticket

I am Veruca Salt. You may remember her, the spoiled girl in the red suit who wants everything at Willy Wonka’s Chocolate Factory, and she wants it NOW! Being a…

Seeing Rightly

Seeing Rightly   Worship is more about seeing rightly than it is about singing robustly. An acknowledgement of the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. (Psalm…

7 Ways to Increase Spiritual Attention

  At the beginning of January, I started fresh with a new calendar. Looking at the smooth clean pages, I relished the feeling of SPACE on my calendar. Just a few…

Wait. Be Still. Trust.

Wait. Be still. Trust. Those words just aren’t easy for me to swallow. They never have been. Just feels too much like doing nothing. I always say, “I am just…

Do You Struggle With Spiritual Attention?

In this military life we have many things competing for our attention– family, jobs, health, deployments, schools, moves, and ____, and ____, and _____. You fill in the blanks for…

Not Alone

Not alone   I am not alone. Neither are you. It’s a miracle, really. In a world full of autonomy and the emphasis on individual strength and fortitude, I find…

When Waiting Becomes Overwhelming

I am a sucker for Christmas decorations. I like to leave them up as long as is reasonably possible. A couple of years I stretched that to the limit. Once,…

All In with Monday Minute with God

My legacy. We all long deep within our soul to be remembered for good or even great things after we leave the planet. From famous missionaries to biblical patriarchs, we…

Love Changes Everything

Love Changes Everything   “Do you understand what I have done for you?” He asked them…”Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash…

ALL IN.

“Be strong and courageous, and do the work. Don’t be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord God, my God, is with you.” (1 Chronicles 28:20) Standing on the edge of…

Promise 4: We Are God’s People

Christmas is not over on December 26. The truth is that the work of Christmas really begins on December 26.

Promise 3: All nations will be blessed

Gifts are often received with eager anticipation and outstretched hands. This marvelous gift of Jesus often goes overlooked. Not necessarily by a conscience choice but, more of an afterthought of what is actually understood about our Savior.

Covenant of Peace and Showers of Blessing

Sometimes it’s so very hard to understand God’s ways; I imagine it’s probably how sheep feel about their shepherd. #sheep #peace #strength2thrive

Promise 2: He will forgive our sins

This Christmas, as you see the baby in the manger and little lambs attending him, remember the reason why he came to Bethlehem. He came to be an atonement for you and me

Promise 1: I will be their God

Christmas traditions focus on angels, shepherds, and a manger, but the story of Christmas began long before the scene in Bethlehem. The Christmas story began when Adam and Eve disobeyed God and he sent them away from the perfect Garden of Eden.

Sleepless Nights

Do you ever have trouble sleeping because your mind is so busy or because of lurking fears? My husband is the “close the house up before bedtime” guy, and when…

But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places……

Take a sabbatical this season to simply be and live this moment that God has granted you. Feel His presence, invite Him in your midst and welcome His rest.

Noise

Noise. From the time we awake until the time we go to sleep, we are surrounded by noises. Even at night noises invade our sleep. According to an article in…

Me Too.

Two of the most powerful words in any relationship, these two words can cross racial and ethnic boundaries, make fast friends of new acquaintances, build trust, and even allow us…

Worth

What’s up girlfriends?! Today is “hump day” and we can see the finish line! Just put your head down, press in and keep moving forward. We got this. Now let’s…

Haggai

Busy: We teach this to our children too. They quickly learn that to be important is to be busy. We model a life of being overwhelmed.

Gratitude

I know you. I’ve seen your schedule. You are up at dark-thirty and last one to bed, and you aren’t eating bon-bons and watching soaps. You’re feeding families, doing laundry,…

What Are You Seeking?

What Are You Seeking? Jesus turned and saw them following and said to them, “What are you seeking?” John 1:38a   What are YOU seeking? Isn’t this the million dollar…

What Happens to the Stones We Throw?

On a beautiful crisp morning, our family was walking along the rocky beach of Hope, Alaska. There were mountains surrounding us, sounds of waves echoing against the bank, and eagles…

We Were Sailors Once…And Young: Military Reunions Part 2

Laughter – the explosive kind, the giddy kind, the empathetic kind – and more laughter. Tears – the unbidden kind, the cathartic kind – and the “I’m laughing so hard,…

Habakkuk 4: Salvation Comes From the Lord

Habakkuk 4: Salvation Comes From the Lord   “Behold, his soul is puffed up; it is not upright within him,    but the righteous shall live by his faith. (Habakkuk 2:4 ESV)…

Are You Running on Empty?

I’m not sure which is more nerve-wracking: keeping young children from playing in the street, teaching your older child how to drive, or letting her drive alone. My teen daughter…

Habakkuk 3

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What Happens When We Ask God For Something?

As I left the doctor’s office with news of “You had better rest and take care of yourself or your body is going to shut down on you!” I started…

Worship with Angels

  Worship with Angels * I didn’t know it was possible. No one warned me of such spiritual things. I was young – it happened over 40 years ago in…

STAND FIRM

Got it. Surely I can do that. These two words (stand firm) show up in Scripture many times. When they show up in the Old Testament, it is usually in…

Habakkuk 2: Do You Worship or Worry in the Waiting Rooms of Life?

How we wait, where we wait, and on Whom we wait makes all the difference. One way strengthens us, the other weakens us. One way puts us on high ground, the other lays us low.

Hide and Seek

What’s up, girlfriends?! I love the fall. It is my favorite time of the year, for a few reasons, but the top one is pumpkin spice EVERYTHING! Coffee, muffins, cupcakes,…

“O Lord how long shall I cry for help and you will not hear.” Habakkuk 1:1

This simple equation of belief, trust and faith is what makes Habakkuk’s joy complete. He is confident that justice will prevail. God’s plans are infallible and Habakkuk’s prayer overflow with thanksgiving.

STAND

I climbed thirty feet up to the top of a telephone pole, now all I had to do was stand. Strapped into a harness that was attached to a rope…

“Ma’am, we are going to do everything we can to try and save your husband…”

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Military Wife… Not Me

I am thankful that God has a plan for my life, even if it is different than my own plan. I am thankful that God can use me in spite of my stubborn selfishness. I am thankful for this season of adventures and look expectantly toward the future God has planned for my life.

Military Dads and Daughters

The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. Galatians 5:22-23 As a military mom, I…

The Making of Home – again

I want to go home. In the middle of a squad bay in Quantico, Virginia, walls lined with bunk beds made up neatly with green wool blankets, this was my…

Military Spouse Adventures

To this day, my first duty station has been my favorite. Maybe it was the island, maybe it was the military community we met, but I believe that it was the Lord’s sweet way of reassuring my heart that HE is in control, and will always look after me, no matter where in the world the military may take us.

We Were Sailors Once…and Young: Military Reunions Part 1

Next weekend, I will be attending a profound reunion with my military sisters as we celebrate turning 50 years young during the 2016-2017 school year. Thirty-one years ago, on July…

Do You Worry About the Impact of Military Moves on Your Kids?

  For many, handling separations of deployments and getting settled in new duty stations are at the top of our list of military life challenges. Our kids would probably agree. Belonging is important for the…

A Visit with Author Brenda Pace

Have you ever been to a conference and while listening to the speaker you wondered what it would be like to get to know her – be her friend? I…

The Good Plans

  What’s up, Girlfriends?! I have one question for you, “Who stole my summer and how can I get it back?” Okay, that’s two questions, but you get my point….

I love Adventures

I have learned that God has me right where He wants me to be. When I give my trust to Him I humbly tell Him that I give my life wholly to Him, for Him to use me for His glory. I don’t know what other adventures He has in store for me. But I do know that I am called as a military woman, sister, daughter, friend, Christian, to be a light unto others to spread Christ’s love.

Challenge Accepted

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Remembering Rest and Joy Come From Him

I want rest and joy! Do you ever scream that in your heart and mind?
The Lord encourages us to continue to worship Him. In HIS timing and because of HIS work in us, rest and joy will come, although, it may come at different times and in different ways because of who He has made us to be in Him. Where are you looking for rest and joy?

God Knows

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5 Scriptures to Strengthen Your Strength

I’m tired. No, I’m exhausted. Be it spiritual warfare or just plain being a wife and mom, life has seemed to beat me down extra hard lately. The details don’t…

Thrive: From Survival to Abundance in Four Easy Steps

My favorite verse in the Bible? There are so many, but the one that always jumps out is John 10:10, “A thief comes only to steal and to kill and…

Do This in Remembrance of Me

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A Pep Talk For the Weary Soul

The day my mom was diagnosed with cancer, the world seemed to close in. My husband had recently deployed, and our family was still settling into our first overseas assignment….

An Unpacked Heart

What’s up Girlfriends?! I have finally mustered up the courage to begin working on the spare room. Trust me, it’s scary in there. The spare room will do double time…

God Most High

Remember increases faith and decreases fear. One foot in front of the other is the best way to finish the race.

Stronghold

This week I’ve enjoyed meeting, by phone, several recently commissioned Navy and Coast Guard ensigns who are currently en route to their first ships and boats. What joy I felt…

Attitude or gratitude?

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Qanna- Names of God

Monday Minute with God: Remembering that our God is a jealous God.

Jehovah- Names of God

Monday Minute with God: Jehovah is immutable. He is the same yesterday, today and tomorrow.

Abba Father- Names of God

Monday Minute with God: when Jesus felt most alone, most abandoned, He cried out to the crawl-in-His-lap-arms-around-His-neck Abba.

Redeemer – Names of God

Monday Minute with God: Remember who you are, where you came from. Trust in who He is, and that He’s coming.

REMEMBER

It’s summertime! From days at the lake to family vacation and camp to mission trips, we all love the memories summer can bring. Somehow the memories of those days gone…

Hearing God in Your Marriage

Monday Minute With God. As wives we have the unique challenge to practice submission to God in a very real, very tangible way – being submissive to our husbands.

Seeking God in Your Parenting

Monday Minute with God. Seeking God enables us to become the parents God desires us to be.

Seeking God in your ministry

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Seeking God For Your Work

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Hands of God

Hands of God   Sisters. Friends. Women. Fellow warriors. I don’t know where I’d be without you. I’m not talking about the blood-related kind. I’m talking about the women who…

The Presence of God

    Welcome to Monday Minute With God. A place to start the week right and tools to keep you in the word all week long.        …

Confessions from a Deployment

Another deployment. This was the first since having our third little boy. They were 1, 3, and 4 when he departed. I knew I was in for an adventure in…

Spiritual Passport

    Welcome to Monday Minute With God. A place to start the week right and tools to keep you in the word all week long.   Spiritual Passport Nehemiah…

Life on the Other Side

On December 12, 2015 my husband officially retired from active duty. We had a small retirement party for him in our new town, surrounded by old and new friends–some who…

Just Wait

We wait all the time–in traffic, commissary lines, for our kids to get ready, for our husbands to walk through the door, for PCS orders, and on goes the list….

Stand Firm

  Welcome to Monday Minute With God. A place to start the week right and tools to keep you in the word all week long. Stand Firm 1 Chronicles 16:8-12…

Take a Knee

There is something special about a military ceremony. All those Soldiers marching in formation. Eyes focused on the commander. Ears attentive to the bugle call. Shoes and brass glinting in…

Seeking God

  Welcome to Monday Minute With God. A place to start the week right and tools to keep you in the word all week long. Seeking God 1 Chronicles 16:11:…

The Power of a Story

I don’t know about you, but I’m a seeker – a seeker of stories. I love to hear how other people come to know our Savior and Lord. Some day…

Worship in Relationship

    Welcome to Monday Minute With God. A place to start the week right and tools to keep you in the word all week long.   Worship in Relationship…

Strength in Leadership

  Welcome to Monday Minute With God. A place to start the week right and tools to keep you in the word all week long. Strength in Leadership How do…

There’s An App For That!

The newest excitement at Planting Roots? WE HAVE AN APP! Take Planting Roots with you wherever you go! Read the blog, see the newest Bible study, learn about events, watch…

The Happy-Hazard Homemaker: Table Setting

  Welcome to Monday Minute With God. A place to start the week right and tools to keep you in the word all week long. Joyfully, Muriel Gregory Planting Roots…

Sound Off!

Formation runs. I conjure up sweat running down my back, a side ache, and the sound of somebody calling a cadence. Even today, on a trail run here in Colorado…

Daily Bread

Give this day our daily bread…   John 6: 31-35 I was born and raised in France. We like good food and fellowship. We like our cheeses and are pretty…

Let The Redeemed of the Lord

  Let the Redeemed of the Lord Tell Their Story (Psalm 107:2) Written by Suzanne Isaac, Singer and instrumentalist for the Planting Roots Worship Team This is my story… I…

Seek

SEEK Wow, it is April and here at Planting Roots we will begin to focus on our new quarterly theme of Seek. As I think about the word SEEK, I…

Dwell: A Prayer Journey through the Psalms Week 12

Constantly With Christ Know: “Let us go to his dwelling place, let us worship at his footstool, saying, ‘Arise, Lord, and come to your resting place, you and the ark…

Homecoming

There is nothing quite like a homecoming ceremony. It doesn’t even have to be my own husband returning to make joy leak from my eyes and smear my mascara. After…

Dwell: a Prayer Journey through the Psalms Week 11

Dwelling in Calm amidst Conflict Know: “Too long have I had my dwelling among those who hate peace.” Psalm 120:6 Read & Respond: This week we are studying Psalm 120,…

Dwell: A Prayer Journey through the Psalms Week 10

Adopted, Not Orphaned Know: And there he lets the hungry dwell, and they establish a city to live in; they sow fields and plant vineyards and get a fruitful yield….

Nothing Is Wasted

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Dwell: A Prayer Journey through the Psalms Week 9

[fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”][fusion_text] What It Means to Walk Blamelessly…

Glory Days

We all used to be or do something. No doubt you have heard it too. “Before I joined the Marine Corps, I …” “Before I married my military guy, I…

Dwell: A Prayer Journey through the Psalms week 8

The LORD Your Dwelling Place Know: Because you have made the Lord your dwelling place—  the Most High, who is my refuge— no evil shall be allowed to befall you, no plague…

Dwell: A Prayer Journey through the Psalms Week 7

Anonymous Cravings Know: How lovely is your dwelling place, O Lord of hosts! My soul longs, yes, faints for the courts of the Lord; my heart and flesh sing for…

Dwell: A Prayer Journey through the Psalms Week 6

The Magnitude of Memory Know:  He forsook his dwelling at Shiloh, the tent where he dwelt among mankind, and delivered his power to captivity, his glory to the hand of the foe….

Dwell: A Prayer Journey through the Psalms Week 5

Blessed to Dwell In His Presence Know: Blessed is the one you choose and bring near, to dwell in your courts! We shall be satisfied with the goodness of your…

Home Office

Recently, I’ve been asked a question more than once. It’s a legitimate question that you may have asked as well. Where is the “home office” of Planting Roots? So –…

Dwell: A Prayer Journey through the Psalms Week 4

Sing in Praise of His Name Know:  Sing to God, sing in praise of his name, extol him who rides on the clouds; rejoice before him—his name is the Lord….

Everything I Need to Know I Learned in Boot Camp

  Each of us who has served or is serving had to go through boot camp. My first-hand experience of going from civilian to military life happened in the summer…

Dwell: A Prayer Journey in the Psalms Week 3

Eternal Dwelling or Temporary Dwelling? Know: For all can see that the wise die, that the foolish and the senseless also perish, leaving their wealth to others. Their tombs will…

Start With A Good Foundation

What does it mean to be still? Webster defines it as “devoid of or abstaining from motion” and, “uttering no sound.“  In our world today, how hard is that? I…

WORSHIP

“Give praise to the Lord, proclaim his name; make known among the nations what he has done. 9 Sing to him, sing praise to him; tell of all his wonderful…

DWELL: A Prayer Journey in the Psalms Week 2

Faith Dweller or Fear Dweller? Know: Do not fret because of those who are evil or be envious of those who do wrong; for like the grass they will soon wither like…

From Uncertainty to Epiphany: Hearing God’s Heart for 2016

Happy New Year & Happy Epiphany! Entering into a New Year causes us to look upon life’s direction and plot our course toward new goals and old dreams. It is…

Dwell: A Prayer Journey in the Psalms Week 1

Welcome! This 11 week Planting Roots prayer journey is designed with military women in mind. It is short but not shallow, using the Psalms as a pattern for prayer, worship,…

Love Well–Part 2

  (Editor’s Note: You might want to check out Love Well–Part 1 before starting on Part 2.) But… A New Time. A New Neighbor We’ve left the Industrial Age and…

Reach For More of God This Year

  I turn the page, calendar blank as a new year begins. A new year filled with days yet to be lived, time waiting for the light of eternity to meet the…

Friendships: Choosing the Right Friends

ex•tro•vert noun an outgoing, overly expressive person. synonyms: outgoing person, sociable person, socializer, life of the party I struggle with military moves: packing, dates, appointments, and goodbyes. But my biggest…

Charity or Burden?

  Recently,  I went to the store to buy a few cleaners that had run out in the house. I can be a bit of a neat freak, but I live with 5…

Stronger Still

I have done the thirty day challenge in my workout program. I have followed the Bible reading plan for a full year. I have read the appropriate number of books…

We’re Not Missing Anything

I’ve seen the pictures of troops on the front lines during the holidays. I’ve seen pictures of them in chow halls and outposts and pictures of their families with empty…

What A Magnificent Announcement!

Why is the birth of Jesus good news? Consider the verses of Matthew 1:18-24, “Now the birth of Jesus Christ took place in this way. When his mother Mary had…

Who Am I?

This is a time of thanksgiving and joy for many Americans. Some, however, will struggle through this time of year and hope it quickly goes by. Much of our thanksgiving…

The Importance of Traditions for the Military Family: 50 Ways to Celebrate Christmas

“I miss Virginia—my friends and our house.” Seems like I heard this comment sighed from the lips of one of my children every few days. It is 2007 and our…

When Change Makes Your Hands Wring with Worry

If you’re like me, you don’t mind change one bit—as long as it’s your idea. The thing is that with military life, much of the change finding you is not…

A Morning Run

“…to whom much is given, much is required…” Luke 12.48 I am currently living in Washington, DC between Georgetown and George Washington University. A favorite daily discipline is to run…

How Grace Transformed My Brokenness

But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses,…

What Do You Want for Christmas?

Our family enjoyed a wonderful get-together for Thanksgiving. We ate too much, laughed a lot, caught up on family news, and counted our blessings. Because Thanksgiving is an American holiday…

In Gratitude for Small-Talk

My home of birth and record is Tennessee. A southern upbringing instilled the importance of courtesy. Personal factoid: I was voted, “Most Courteous” in high school. You need proof? When I…

Finding Peace in Troubling Times

  I laced up my boots and straightened my starched uniform every morning as I left for work before the sun rose above the horizon. I was a Soldier and…

The Door

  This past Halloween my husband and I were Halloween Scrooges. With no kids in the house we decided not to turn the porch light on or hand out candies….

The Beginning Of Wisdom: WEEK 11 Respect Everyone, Love Believers, Honor Authority

Know:  “Show proper respect to everyone, love the family of believers, fear God, honor the emperor.”  – I Peter 2:17 Consider: “This is totally unnecessary,” I hissed at the gate…

The Two Things God Calls Us to Do

I was thirty feet in the air on a three foot by three foot wooden platform with my toes hanging off the edge. Before me was a 500-foot-long cable that…

The Beginning Of Wisdom: Week 10

Know: Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, not only as in my presence but much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear…

The Beginning Of Wisdom: Week 9

Know: Acts 10:2 “a devout man who feared God with all his household, gave alms generously to the people, and prayed continually to God” (ESV) Concider: We homeschooled our three…

The Beginning Of Wisdom: Week 8

Know: Matthew 10:28 “Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather, be afraid of the One who can destroy both soul and…

The Beginning Of Wisdom: Week 7

Know: Now all has been heard; here is the conclusion of the matter: Fear God and keep His commandments. for this is the duty of all mankind. For God will…

The Beginning Of Wisdom: Week 6

Know: Seek it like silver and search for it as for hidden treasures. (Proverbs 2:4) Consider: My son, if you receive my words and treasure up my commandments with you,…

The Beginning Of Wisdom: Week 5

Know: The Lord confides in those who fear Him; He makes His covenant known to them. (Psalm 25:14) Consider: What comforts you when you’re afraid? God’s Word reminds us that…

The Beginning Of Wisdom: Week 4

  Know: Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you…

The Beginning of Wisdom: Week 3

Know: Moses responded to the people, “Don’t be afraid, for God has come to test you, so that you will fear Him and will not sin.” Exodus 20:20 (20/20…get it?)…

The Beginning of Wisdom: Week 2

The Beginning of Wisdom: Week 2 Know: He said, ‘Do not lay your hand on the boy or do anything to him, for now I know that you fear God,…

The Beginning Of Wisdom: Wisdom Week 1

Know: Charm is deceitful, and beauty is vain, but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised. (Proverbs 31:30) Consider: Imagine magazines at the commissary. Headlines seem designed…

Love Well–How to Love Our Neighbors Today

When something is good it sticks. It hits our hearts and is easy to connect with. Whether it is a marketing ad that tugs out the tears, a story of…

Everyday Life

What’s up girlfriends?! Fall is upon us with all of its splendor and beauty. I love the fall–it’s one of my favorite seasons. Well actually, it is my favorite season….

The Ache of Fall: Our prayer through the season

As the leaves begin to change into fiery reds and golden yellows, and the crisp mist of coming winter begins to chill our bodies, our hearts begin to seek warmth through…

Planting My Guidon

Today is a milestone. I am planting the guidon in the ground – not forever, but for today – because we need to mark this day and all that God…

The Fear of Letting Go

It was a beautiful morning. The sky was bright blue and the sun was shining. Yet, my heart was slowly breaking. We made our way to the Zona Rosa recruiting…

How Nomads Build Community

We are nomads. Not livestock-moving nomads (unless of course you count children and pets), but nomads nonetheless. The definition of nomad as explained by dictionary.com is “a member of a…

Four Truths About Using Your Spiritual Gifts in Military Life

 Military life is filled with a variety of transitions. Though we all live with a strong commitment to the defense of our nation, there can be times when we struggle…

Nail the Colors to the Mast

What’s up Girlfriends?! I want to tell you a story and talk about Jesus! We are indeed a Navy family. If you cut us we will bleed blue–Navy blue right…

A Redefined Day

I looked with dread at the day circled on the calendar. The anniversary of my father’s death was imminent. Other than my husband, my dad was my greatest cheerleader and…

Living Faith Strengthens One Day at a Time

Life in the military brings moments that test our faith. Deployments and war zones are challenges of faith for both active duty and families. The military experience is riddled with days of…

One of Those Weeks

It’s been one of those weeks. I know you’ve all had them–those weeks when we feel pulled a million different directions, we run like crazy all day, and then we…

Hold His Pocket

Imagine being a child, walking throughout the grocery store with your parent, and something catches your eye—maybe a toy or a magazine. Maybe you see that crazy leprechaun on your…

Finding My Calling

Colossians 3:23-24 says, “Whatever you do, do it enthusiastically, as something done for the Lord and not for men, knowing that you will receive the reward of an inheritance from…

Welcome to a New Season!

Hello Labor Day! This day marks the official end of the summer season. The Pace family will remember this summer as… …the year of NO FEAR in the pool! …the…

Deep Roots

  Yesterday was a heavy yard cleaning day. My sore muscles this morning are reminding me of all the hard work we did yesterday. Our new home was previously occupied…

Thriving or just surviving

[fusion_builder_container hundred_percent=”yes” overflow=”visible”][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type=”1_1″ background_position=”left top” background_color=”” border_size=”” border_color=”” border_style=”solid” spacing=”yes” background_image=”” background_repeat=”no-repeat” padding=”” margin_top=”0px” margin_bottom=”0px” class=”” id=”” animation_type=”” animation_speed=”0.3″ animation_direction=”left” hide_on_mobile=”no” center_content=”no” min_height=”none”] Thriving or just surviving? There is…

God Hears You

  This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us. 1 John 5:14 Have you ever felt like…

Together

  We are two peas in a pod, you and I. Really we are, but I don’t feel that way sometimes. Why? Well, for the same reasons you do. Let…

Keep Going – Part 2

On Monday, we talked about how God taught me the lesson of perseverance and continues to do so. You can read it here. Today we get to look at two…

Keep Going

In the woods of northern Virginia, I learned many lessons. Crawling through muddy water in November, running the obstacle course more times than I could count, and sitting in classes…

Christ Can Feed Your Soul in the Midst of Change

The transitions of military life often breed challenges of the soul. Just when you’re thriving and feeling settled, orders come down and it is time to move. Just when you…

While My Soldier Serves

There are times when life is lived in the dark. Everywhere we turn—inside and out—the landscape is bleak and barren. God seems a million miles away and our prayers—when we…

Here We Go, Again!

Here we go, again! We are upon the season of transition again! Moving! Orders, boxes, trucks and moving chaos surrounds us. But in the midst of all the craziness of…

Causing Ripples

We were just about the only ones there. We had gone to the post pool, but this Kansas spring has been pretty cool. Most people were not crazy enough to…

When It’s Hard to Move in the Military

Moving is one of the top five stressors in life: Death, divorce, moving, major illness, and job loss. For military folks, moving is a fact of life. Any woman associated…

DON’T FORGET TO REMEMBER

Remember the days of old: consider the generations long past. Ask your father and he will tell you, your elders, and they will explain to you. Deuteronomy 32:7 NIV Each…

Identity

Earlier this week I had to go to the DEERS office on post to relinquish my soon-to-expire military ID card. I brought along a second form of photo identification, my…

Everything for His Glory

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May Garden Party: Week 2

Planting Roots is pleased to announce our new weekly Bible studies. Last week, Andrea Plotner encouraged us to be “rooted” in Christ. Listen to Ginger Harrington this week as she…

Encouragement: Courage Poured in

ENCOURAGEMENT – COURAGE POURED IN HOW FULL IS YOUR TANK? The commissary the place we hate to go to and the one place we must all go to! Honestly when…

You’ve Been Warned

  “If you knock on my door today, you WILL see me in my pjs, no matter what time it is.” Busy.  It’s a state of life we don’t believe…

Unity in the Faith

Unity in the Faith We come from all branches of service, Army, Air force, Navy, Marines and Coast guard. We have different traditions and purposes in the military, like our…

Why Do We Pray?

 WHY DO WE PRAY? I remember being a little girl and the times when I would climb into my grandma’s bed on the nights that I could not sleep (grandma’s…

Show Me Your Ways

 Show Me Your Ways As the summer approaches we in the military community realize we are entering a time of change. PCSing, school dates, new assignments, children graduating, ETSing (sometimes…

Scared

At our house in recent days, we have been walking through a season of fear with my little man. He is seven. We have many things going on in our…

The Simple Details,

The Simple Details As I was praying about this upcoming Prayer Tuesday what really seemed to be pulling at my heart was to pray specifically over our military men and…

Got Heaven’s Perspective?

Got Heaven’s Perspective? When we finally got our PCS orders, and had to move in a month to beautiful Colorado we had no idea the gift we were given. We’ve…

Thank You

“Thank you, Lord. That is what I want to say today – Thank you. Thank you, Lord, for the life you have given. Thank you for the moves, the houses…

What About Her?

I was elated. My Prince Charming was taking me to Disneyland. As we rode the shuttle to the park, another couple sat down nearby us, and the wife and I…

PCS Prayer

Can you feel it?! Aren’t you excited?! The buzz of anticipation, the opportunity for a fresh start.   No, I am not talking about Spring. Ladies, it’s the beginning of…

God is Provider!

Prayer Tuesday: On this military journey we have often experienced sudden changes in our lives. CHANGE is always a given on this adventure. Whether it’s a new duty station, a…

Three Ways to Find Your Strong in This Moment, Part 2

Today is Prayer Tuesday and I invite you to pray through the resonating points of this post as we all seek to find our strong. This post is a continuation…

Three Ways to Find Your Strong in This Moment, Part 1

Military life is filled with blessings and challenges. It is marked by cycles of transitions, with a continual planting and uprooting of our families as we journey this globe in…

Women’s Ministry in the Military World (part 5)

I know you all have been on the edge of your seats to see this series come to a final conclusion. Me too. 🙂 Today we finish it up and…

Women’s Ministry in the Military World – part 4

If you have been following along, you know we have been looking at women’s ministry in the military world and are answering a few questions as we go. If you…

Women’s Ministry in the MIlitary World – Part 3

Welcome back again to our series as we look at who we are as military women and how we can impact the Kingdom. This is part three. You can check…

Women’s Ministry in the Military World – Part 2

Starting with the good stuff! Our first blog post on women’s ministry in the military took a look at who “our people” are. If you like statistics and detailed information,…

Women’s Ministry in the Military World

Planting Roots has a mission to impact military women with the Gospel of Jesus Christ because we are military women and we love Jesus. But who are we (military women)…

Christmas Prayer

Prayer Tuesday: Isaiah 9:6-7a (ESV) 6 For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name…

A Merry Christmas and a Blessed Advent!

Planting Roots wanted to wish you a Merry Christmas and a blessed Advent! If you have not met Jesus personally, if you have not made Him the Lord of your…

Semper Fidelis

Always faithful. These very words represent the United States Marine Corps around the world. Today, they celebrate their 239th birthday. Happy Birthday, Marines! Known for their honor, courage, and commitment,…

Roots and Fruits

I currently live on the Fort Benning Army Installation. The large beautiful trees here are ancient and when it storms you can count on some of them falling down. Since…

Home is Where Your People Are.

Born in a Navy hospital, I lived twenty-one years as a Navy brat. Each time my Navy family settled into a new house, my mom would say, “Home is where…

Pursuit of Perfection

Welcome! I will confess right up front, I am not a blogger. Actually, I am not even a blog reader, yikes! So, here I am contributing to a blog by…

Sacred Connections: The power of connecting with one another

  I have to be honest with you. The longer I am in the ranks of women in the military, the greater my awareness becomes of the need to be…

Make the Most of this Military Life

I didn’t plan to be a military wife. Really, it wasn’t on my bucket list. But what do you do when the man you love, says, “Did I tell you…

Welcome to the “What if!”

Years ago, God began whispering in my heart – “What if military women (both wives and active duty) came together to worship God and to grow in their Christian walk?”…