Quotes from Melody Carlson

I can hang on to God and trust that He knows.

We are no different today, friends. We get caught up in the season, busily making preparations for Christmas. We decorate, bake cookies, shop, and wrap presents, and yet we aren't truly ready. We aren't waiting with great expectations. Our hearts aren't prepared to receive this holy guest, this heavenly visitor.

The real treasures of this world cannot be purchased with any sum of money. But they can be given away for free.

you guys are living life for yourselves. You're leaving God totally out of it, and as a result things can get pretty messed up.

She wanted to remind them that Christmas was more than just glitter and garlands—but that color and sparkle were a wonderful way to celebrate the real Joy of Christmas. And before she walked away, she lifted the baby Jesus and gave it a little kiss—just like she'd always done—and laid it in the manger.

You're down now, Jordan, but only for awhile. I think God is giving you a chance to really look at your life and decide just how you want to live it. That's right, said Kara. You can keep on living it for yourself or invite God to take over.

Caroline smiled and waved and blew kisses to both of them as she exited the building. But once outside she felt sad and let down, like the party was over and it was time to go home. And yet she remembered her promise to God. She was going to trust that he knew what was best for her.

Now she wanted it back. A Scripture she'd tried to live by as a teen came to her, and surprised she could even remember it, she said it aloud. "Trust the Lord with your whole heart, don't depend on your own knowledge and experience, include God in all you do, and he will direct you through life.

Stay on good terms with each other,' " he read slowly, putting emphasis on each word, "'held together by love.

I'd rather have a few wonderful years with love than a long life with animosity.

Why, some have extended hospitality to angels without ever knowing it!

she should trust their hopeful image of a kind, loving, and gracious God. It simply added up.