What to give up for Lent</h1> <article> <h1>What to give up for Lent</h1> <p>aneumann — Fri, 12 Mar 2010 19:44:23 +0000</p> <div class="field field-type-filefield field-field-image"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <div class="filefield-file clear-block"><div class="filefield-icon field-icon-image-jpeg"></div><a href="http://www.wels.net/sites/wels/files/mli_guilt031510.jpg" type="image/jpeg; length=44263">mli_guilt031510.jpg</a></div> </div> </div> </div> <p>Last year a sad thing happened at our Good Friday service. As people entered the chapel, they each received a large nail. In the front of the chapel stood a large cross with hundreds of holes drilled in it. Toward the end of the service I invited the worshipers to come forward and place their nails in the cross.</p> <div class="field field-type-nodereference field-field-callout"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <a href="/callout/just-you">Just for you</a> </div> <div class="field-item even"> <a href="/callout/prayer">PRAYER</a> </div> <div class="field-item odd"> <a href="/daily-devotion">DAILY DEVOTION</a> </div> <div class="field-item even"> <a href="/callout/have-story-share">HAVE A STORY TO SHARE?</a> </div> </div> </div> <div class="og_rss_groups"></div> </article> <article> <h1>I shot a man, but God saved my life</h1> <p>aneumann — Fri, 12 Mar 2010 18:10:07 +0000</p> <div class="field field-type-filefield field-field-image"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <div class="filefield-file clear-block"><div class="filefield-icon field-icon-image-jpeg"></div><a href="http://www.wels.net/sites/wels/files/mli_inmates031510.jpg" type="image/jpeg; length=65573">mli_inmates031510.jpg</a></div> </div> </div> </div> <p>I donâ€™t know why I did it. I shot a man in the backâ€”twice.</p> <p>I didnâ€™t want to kill him. I just wanted to hurt him as much as he hurt me. Even when you are 88 years old, you still have those kinds of feelings. Too bad this sinner canâ€™t blame it on senility or dementia.</p> <p>The court-appointed psychologist said that it was because the man had deserted me.</p> <div class="field field-type-nodereference field-field-callout"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <a href="/callout/spiritual-help-inmates">Spiritual help for inmates</a> </div> <div class="field-item even"> <a href="/callout/just-you">Just for you</a> </div> <div class="field-item odd"> <a href="/daily-devotion">DAILY DEVOTION</a> </div> <div class="field-item even"> <a href="/callout/have-story-share">HAVE A STORY TO SHARE?</a> </div> </div> </div> <div class="og_rss_groups"></div> </article> <article> <h1>The backpack of loneliness</h1> <p>aneumann — Fri, 12 Mar 2010 00:11:29 +0000</p> <div class="field field-type-filefield field-field-image"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <div class="filefield-file clear-block"><div class="filefield-icon field-icon-image-jpeg"></div><a href="http://www.wels.net/sites/wels/files/mli_loneliness031510.jpg" type="image/jpeg; length=60153">mli_loneliness031510.jpg</a></div> </div> </div> </div> <p><span>While walking through the campus of a major university I noticed that nearly everyone had one. With books, computers, cell phones, and their lunch to carry, they had to have one. I</span>'<span>m talking about backpacks. It appeared that backpacks were standard equipment for getting though the day.<br><br></span></p><div class="field field-type-nodereference field-field-callout"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <a href="/daily-devotion">DAILY DEVOTION</a> </div> <div class="field-item even"> <a href="/prayer-strength">PRAYER FOR STRENGTH</a> </div> <div class="field-item odd"> <a href="/callout/just-you">Just for you</a> </div> </div> </div> <div class="og_rss_groups"></div> </article> <article> <h1>Batteries and birds</h1> <p>aneumann — Thu, 11 Mar 2010 22:37:03 +0000</p> <div class="field field-type-filefield field-field-image"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <div class="filefield-file clear-block"><div class="filefield-icon field-icon-image-jpeg"></div><a href="http://www.wels.net/sites/wels/files/mli_financial031510.jpg" type="image/jpeg; length=54568">mli_financial031510.jpg</a></div> </div> </div> </div> <p><span>Whoever designed this builders</span>'<span>-supply store did not want me to conclude that I'm ever finished shopping. As the checkout line channels me past a display of flashlights, I wonder, </span>"<span>Am I sure I have enough?</span>"<span> Farther along, I am cleverly positioned in front of thousands of batteries. This time there</span>'<span>s a sign, </span>"<span>Are you sure you have enough?</span>"<span> My insecurity is being manipulated for profit.<br><br></span></p><div class="field field-type-nodereference field-field-callout"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <a href="/callout/financial-worries">Financial worries?</a> </div> <div class="field-item even"> <a href="/callout/qa-being-in-debt">Q&A: Being in debt</a> </div> <div class="field-item odd"> <a href="/can-we-pray-you">CAN WE PRAY FOR YOU?</a> </div> <div class="field-item even"> <a href="/callout/just-you">Just for you</a> </div> <div class="field-item odd"> <a href="/callout/searching-scriptures">Searching the Scriptures</a> </div> </div> </div> <div class="og_rss_groups"></div> </article> <article> <h1>Heartache and joy</h1> <p>aneumann — Thu, 11 Mar 2010 22:00:15 +0000</p> <div class="field field-type-filefield field-field-image"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <div class="filefield-file clear-block"><div class="filefield-icon field-icon-image-jpeg"></div><a href="http://www.wels.net/sites/wels/files/mli_birth031510.jpg" type="image/jpeg; length=57605">mli_birth031510.jpg</a></div> </div> </div> </div> <p>Three and a half years ago, I had begun to question whether or not I would ever be a mother. My husband Nate and I were in the beginning stages of the adoption process, a road that seemed so long and winding. I didn't know if we would make it to the end. Now here I sit, writing on my computer as my 22-month-old son naps in his crib.</p> <div class="field field-type-nodereference field-field-callout"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <a href="/callout/thinking-about-your-baptism">Thinking about your baptism</a> </div> <div class="field-item even"> <a href="/callout/have-story-share">HAVE A STORY TO SHARE?</a> </div> <div class="field-item odd"> <a href="/callout/parenting">Parenting</a> </div> <div class="field-item even"> <a href="/callout/just-you">Just for you</a> </div> </div> </div> <div class="og_rss_groups"></div> </article> <article> <h1>Do not be afraid</h1> <p>aneumann — Thu, 11 Mar 2010 16:47:50 +0000</p> <div class="field field-type-filefield field-field-image"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <div class="filefield-file clear-block"><div class="filefield-icon field-icon-image-jpeg"></div><a href="http://www.wels.net/sites/wels/files/mli_fear031510.jpg" type="image/jpeg; length=56943">mli_fear031510.jpg</a></div> </div> </div> </div> <p>The four-year-old cried out, "Mom! Dad! I'm afraid. I hear a noise." <br><br>"There's nothing to be afraid of, Son. Go to sleep."<br><br>Moments later, now crying: "Dad! Mom! Something's in my room. I can hear it."<br><br>This time Dad came upstairs and appeared in the doorway. He listened for a bit, then came and put his arm around his son: "Don't be afraid.</p> <div class="field field-type-nodereference field-field-callout"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <a href="/callout/just-you">Just for you</a> </div> <div class="field-item even"> <a href="/daily-devotion">DAILY DEVOTION</a> </div> <div class="field-item odd"> <a href="/callout/have-story-share">HAVE A STORY TO SHARE?</a> </div> </div> </div> <div class="og_rss_groups"></div> </article> <article> <h1>The death of romance</h1> <p>aneumann — Tue, 09 Mar 2010 22:48:43 +0000</p> <div class="field field-type-filefield field-field-image"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <div class="filefield-file clear-block"><div class="filefield-icon field-icon-image-jpeg"></div><a href="http://www.wels.net/sites/wels/files/mli_divorce031510.jpg" type="image/jpeg; length=50035">mli_divorce031510.jpg</a></div> </div> </div> </div> <p>"Please. Please. Please. Don't go!" he pleaded. And his wife slammed the door and left. He had made his share of mistakes. Now he would have plenty of time to think about them and everything that went wrong. The first night passed slowly as he lay alone with nothing but his memories and an empty house. Many more long nights lay ahead.</p> <p></p> <div class="field field-type-nodereference field-field-callout"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <a href="/callout/just-you">Just for you</a> </div> <div class="field-item even"> <a href="/can-we-pray-you">CAN WE PRAY FOR YOU?</a> </div> <div class="field-item odd"> <a href="/callout/have-story-share">HAVE A STORY TO SHARE?</a> </div> </div> </div> <div class="og_rss_groups"></div> </article> <article> <h1>Saying goodbye</h1> <p>aneumann — Tue, 09 Mar 2010 20:27:33 +0000</p> <div class="field field-type-filefield field-field-image"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <div class="filefield-file clear-block"><div class="filefield-icon field-icon-image-jpeg"></div><a href="http://www.wels.net/sites/wels/files/death030910.jpg" type="image/jpeg; length=53920">death030910.jpg</a></div> </div> </div> </div> <p>It was crystal clear the night before Grandma died. As I walked to the car, the sky was absolutely sparkling with stars and the moon seemed to be sharper and more in focus than I'd ever seen it.</p> <p>The hospital parking lot was glowing from the lights shining down on the cars, and the city lights, barely visible over the horizon, made it look like there was a soft, unending sunset.</p> <p></p> <div class="field field-type-nodereference field-field-callout"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <a href="/streams/podcasts/content/devotion-jesus-cure-death-061808">Devotion - Jesus is the Cure for Death - 06/18/08</a> </div> <div class="field-item even"> <a href="/can-we-pray-you">CAN WE PRAY FOR YOU?</a> </div> <div class="field-item odd"> <a href="/callout/just-you">Just for you</a> </div> </div> </div> <div class="og_rss_groups"></div> </article> <article> <h1>The only Christian on campus?</h1> <p>aneumann — Mon, 08 Mar 2010 19:22:13 +0000</p> <div class="field field-type-filefield field-field-image"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <div class="filefield-file clear-block"><div class="filefield-icon field-icon-image-jpeg"></div><a href="http://www.wels.net/sites/wels/files/college030910.jpg" type="image/jpeg; length=50161">college030910.jpg</a></div> </div> </div> </div> <p><span>Six years ago I started my college career at the University of Minnesota in the Twin Cities. As a 19-year-old girl from Wausau, Wis., I had no idea what I was in for as I headed off to the university and to a campus whose population is larger than that of my entire hometown.<br> <br><strong><p><span>Six years ago I started my college career at the University of Minnesota in the Twin Cities. As a 19-year-old girl from Wausau, Wis., I had no idea what I was in for as I headed off to the university and to a campus whose population is larger than that of my entire hometown.<br>  <br><strong>One thing I quickly learned as a student is that you can find just about everything on campus—</strong>every culture, every religion, every belief, and, of course, every opinion.</span></p></strong></span></p><div class="field field-type-nodereference field-field-callout"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <a href="/callout/find-church-near-you">Find a church near you</a> </div> <div class="field-item even"> <a href="/callout/your-own">On your own</a> </div> <div class="field-item odd"> <a href="/callout/feeding-your-faith">Feeding your faith</a> </div> <div class="field-item even"> <a href="/callout/just-you">Just for you</a> </div> </div> </div> <div class="og_rss_groups"></div> </article> <article> <h1>And baby makes three</h1> <p>aneumann — Mon, 08 Mar 2010 18:22:58 +0000</p> <div class="field field-type-filefield field-field-image"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <div class="filefield-file clear-block"><div class="filefield-icon field-icon-image-jpeg"></div><a href="http://www.wels.net/sites/wels/files/birth030910.jpg" type="image/jpeg; length=58025">birth030910.jpg</a></div> </div> </div> </div> <p>When I was pregnant with our daughter, Steve and I, like most first-time parents, were clueless. The way parenthood played out in our minds, we'd take our little bundle home, dress her in pink, know instinctively how to respond to every cry, play and laugh all day, put her to bed at 8, and then sit back, sip wine, enjoy a roaring fire, and sigh at the beatific wonders of parenthood.</p> <div class="field field-type-nodereference field-field-callout"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <a href="/callout/just-you">Just for you</a> </div> <div class="field-item even"> <a href="/callout/thinking-about-your-baptism">Thinking about your baptism</a> </div> <div class="field-item odd"> <a href="/callout/parenting">Parenting</a> </div> <div class="field-item even"> <a href="/callout/have-story-share">HAVE A STORY TO SHARE?</a> </div> </div> </div> <div class="og_rss_groups"></div> </article> <article> <h1>Recipe for a successful transition</h1> <p>aneumann — Wed, 03 Mar 2010 22:43:14 +0000</p> <div class="field field-type-filefield field-field-image"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <div class="filefield-file clear-block"><div class="filefield-icon field-icon-image-jpeg"></div><a href="http://www.wels.net/sites/wels/files/transitions.jpg" type="image/jpeg; length=53823">transitions.jpg</a></div> </div> </div> </div> <p>When I was asked to write about transitions, I actually laughed out loud. Why? Because quite frankly my past track record during the major transition periods in my life has been rocky. At my recent wedding shower, my sister told my mother-in-law, "Just so you know, she's not good with big changes. Good luck." <br><br><strong><p>When I was asked to write about transitions, I actually laughed out loud. Why? Because quite frankly my past track record during the major transition periods in my life has been rocky. At my recent wedding shower, my sister told my mother-in-law, "Just so you know, she's not good with big changes. Good luck." <br><br><strong>For me, transitions always seem to end up synonymous with scary; awkward; nervous; strange; stressful; and, did I mention, awkward.</strong></p></strong></p><div class="field field-type-nodereference field-field-callout"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <a href="/streams/podcasts/content/devotion-are-marriages-made-in-heaven-oct-23-2009">Devotion - Are Marriages Made In Heaven? - Oct. 23, 2009</a> </div> <div class="field-item even"> <a href="/callout/just-you">Just for you</a> </div> <div class="field-item odd"> <a href="/callout/have-story-share">HAVE A STORY TO SHARE?</a> </div> </div> </div> <div class="og_rss_groups"></div> </article> <article> <h1>Aging gracefully</h1> <p>aneumann — Fri, 26 Feb 2010 22:18:16 +0000</p> <div class="field field-type-filefield field-field-image"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <div class="filefield-file clear-block"><div class="filefield-icon field-icon-image-jpeg"></div><a href="http://www.wels.net/sites/wels/files/aging2.jpg" type="image/jpeg; length=63887">aging2.jpg</a></div> </div> </div> </div> <p>The fall season had just begun as I set about to finalize my thoughts on aging gracefully. God had begun to paint his world of nature in those beautiful hues of yellow, gold, red and brown, while some trees were still arrayed in their working green. I wondered (almost out loud with surprise) whether the Lord was trying to teach us something about aging in this display.</p> <div class="field field-type-nodereference field-field-callout"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <a href="/callout/just-you">Just for you</a> </div> <div class="field-item even"> <a href="/volunteer-0">VOLUNTEER</a> </div> <div class="field-item odd"> <a href="/callout/give-me-peace">Give me peace</a> </div> <div class="field-item even"> <a href="/callout/have-story-share">HAVE A STORY TO SHARE?</a> </div> </div> </div> <div class="og_rss_groups"></div> </article> <article> <h1>When good things become addictions</h1> <p>aneumann — Fri, 26 Feb 2010 22:00:06 +0000</p> <div class="field field-type-filefield field-field-image"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <div class="filefield-file clear-block"><div class="filefield-icon field-icon-image-jpeg"></div><a href="http://www.wels.net/sites/wels/files/addictions.jpg" type="image/jpeg; length=50352">addictions.jpg</a></div> </div> </div> </div> <p>Addictions consume energy. Problems exist when addicted persons abandon people and things in their lives that were important at one time.</p> <p><strong>EXERCISING</strong></p> <p>"Evan" and his wife, "Kim," have been married for seven years and have two small children. He has always been an overachiever and has a successful business in his community.</p> <div class="field field-type-nodereference field-field-callout"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <a href="/callout/just-you">Just for you</a> </div> <div class="field-item even"> <a href="/callout/need-help">Need help?</a> </div> <div class="field-item odd"> <a href="/callout/christian-counseling">Christian counseling</a> </div> <div class="field-item even"> <a href="/callout/have-story-share">HAVE A STORY TO SHARE?</a> </div> </div> </div> <div class="og_rss_groups"></div> </article> <article> <h1>God stuck with me</h1> <p>aneumann — Mon, 11 Jan 2010 20:20:16 +0000</p> <div class="field field-type-filefield field-field-image"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <div class="filefield-file clear-block"><div class="filefield-icon field-icon-image-jpeg"></div><a href="http://www.wels.net/sites/wels/files/lifeissues_military_011110.jpg" type="image/jpeg; length=39849">lifeissues_military_011110.jpg</a></div> </div> </div> </div> <p>The date was April 2, 2007. Daniel Rowe had been in Iraq for only a few months when his squad was pulling security at the Major Crimes Unit. "We had been there for an hour when a large truck bomb blew up 20 feet in front of my truck," says Daniel. The explosion demolished his truck and nearby buildings and killed his gunner, Bryan.</p> <div class="field field-type-nodereference field-field-callout"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <a href="/callout/online-devotions">Online devotions</a> </div> <div class="field-item even"> <a href="/callout/spiritual-support">Spiritual support</a> </div> <div class="field-item odd"> <a href="/callout/in-harms-way">In harm's way</a> </div> <div class="field-item even"> <a href="/callout/additional-military-resources">Additional military resources</a> </div> </div> </div> <div class="og_rss_groups"></div> </article> <article> <h1>Terrified of the bills</h1> <p>aneumann — Thu, 07 Jan 2010 17:14:38 +0000</p> <div class="field field-type-filefield field-field-image"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <div class="filefield-file clear-block"><div class="filefield-icon field-icon-image-jpeg"></div><a href="http://www.wels.net/sites/wels/files/lifeissues_financial_0107.jpg" type="image/jpeg; length=44045">lifeissues_financial_0107.jpg</a></div> </div> </div> </div> <p>She was fumbling with the key as the danger was drawing nearer. She had opened the door of her car a thousand times before but now she couldn't even get the key in the lock. She could hear it approaching, there wasn't much time left . . . her nerves broke and in terror she began running.</p><div class="field field-type-nodereference field-field-callout"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <a href="/callout/financial-worries">Financial worries?</a> </div> <div class="field-item even"> <a href="/callout/qa-being-in-debt">Q&A: Being in debt</a> </div> <div class="field-item odd"> <a href="/can-we-pray-you">CAN WE PRAY FOR YOU?</a> </div> <div class="field-item even"> <a href="/callout/just-you">Just for you</a> </div> <div class="field-item odd"> <a href="/callout/searching-scriptures">Searching the Scriptures</a> </div> </div> </div> <div class="og_rss_groups"></div> </article> <article> <h1>Message for the troops</h1> <p>aneumann — Mon, 21 Dec 2009 17:28:30 +0000</p> <p>WELS President Rev. Mark Schroeder offers words of encouragement for WELS military personnel deployed overseas.</p> <div class="field field-type-nodereference field-field-callout"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <a href="/callout/online-devotions">Online devotions</a> </div> <div class="field-item even"> <a href="/callout/spiritual-support">Spiritual support</a> </div> <div class="field-item odd"> <a href="/callout/families-and-friends">For families and friends</a> </div> </div> </div> <div class="og_rss_groups"></div> </article> <article> <h1>FEAR NOT</h1> <p>aneumann — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 19:15:55 +0000</p> <div class="field field-type-filefield field-field-image"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <div class="filefield-file clear-block"><div class="filefield-icon field-icon-image-jpeg"></div><a href="http://www.wels.net/sites/wels/files/fear.jpg" type="image/jpeg; length=41462">fear.jpg</a></div> </div> </div> </div> <p><em>Though our fears are real to us, there really isn't anything we need to be afraid of.</em><br><br>When you were young, were you scared of the monsters under the bed? Did Mom or Dad have to prove to you there really wasn't anything there? You probably still weren't sure—and were still frightened.<br><br>Now you are afraid of spiders, heights, poverty, disease—even death.</p><div class="field field-type-nodereference field-field-callout"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <a href="/callout/just-you">Just for you</a> </div> <div class="field-item even"> <a href="/daily-devotion">DAILY DEVOTION</a> </div> <div class="field-item odd"> <a href="/callout/have-story-share">HAVE A STORY TO SHARE?</a> </div> </div> </div> <div class="og_rss_groups"></div> </article> <article> <h1>Complicated life, simple solution</h1> <p>aneumann — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 02:50:17 +0000</p> <div class="field field-type-filefield field-field-image"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <div class="filefield-file clear-block"><div class="filefield-icon field-icon-image-jpeg"></div><a href="http://www.wels.net/sites/wels/files/Woman.jpg" type="image/jpeg; length=30980">Woman.jpg</a></div> </div> </div> </div> <p><em>Beaten down by her earthly struggles, a woman finds peace through her Savior. <br></em><br>On Feb. 16, 1952, I was born into a family of four—my mother, father, and two brothers. My father had been baptized and confirmed in a Lutheran church. My mother was an adult confirmand in the same church.<br><br><strong><p><em>Beaten down by her earthly struggles, a woman finds peace through her Savior. <br></em><br>On Feb. 16, 1952, I was born into a family of four—my mother, father, and two brothers. My father had been baptized and confirmed in a Lutheran church. My mother was an adult confirmand in the same church.<br><br><strong>Rough beginning<br></strong>Regular church attendance was not a part of our family life. My younger brother was the only child baptized.</p></strong></p><div class="field field-type-nodereference field-field-callout"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <a href="/daily-devotion">DAILY DEVOTION</a> </div> <div class="field-item even"> <a href="/callout/bible-reading">BIBLE READING </a> </div> <div class="field-item odd"> <a href="/callout/prayer">PRAYER</a> </div> <div class="field-item even"> <a href="/callout/just-you">Just for you</a> </div> </div> </div> <div class="og_rss_groups"></div> </article> <article> <h1>A different kind of building</h1> <p>aneumann — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 02:40:17 +0000</p> <p><strong></strong><em>A behind-the-scenes look at the work of the women of Builders For Christ. <br></em><br>Usually when you see a picture of Builders For Christ (BFC) members, you see the men using hammers and nails to build a church. You rarely see their wives—the women who do important building of their own. <br><br></p><div class="og_rss_groups"></div> </article> <article> <h1>My storm</h1> <p>aneumann — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 02:39:20 +0000</p> <div class="field field-type-filefield field-field-image"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <div class="filefield-file clear-block"><div class="filefield-icon field-icon-image-jpeg"></div><a href="http://www.wels.net/sites/wels/files/unwatedPREG.jpg" type="image/jpeg; length=37464">unwatedPREG.jpg</a></div> </div> </div> </div> <p><strong></strong><em>I was unwed and pregnant, but God's loving forgiveness and guidance sheltered me and brought me peace. <br></em><br>It was a stormy February afternoon. The thunderclouds were black as night, and the rain was coming down with force. Not outside. No, outside was a cool, sunny, winter day. But my life had just entered a storm. <br><br>It was still a blur in my mind.</p><div class="field field-type-nodereference field-field-callout"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <a href="/prayer-strength">PRAYER FOR STRENGTH</a> </div> <div class="field-item even"> <a href="/can-we-pray-you">CAN WE PRAY FOR YOU?</a> </div> <div class="field-item odd"> <a href="/callout/just-you">Just for you</a> </div> </div> </div> <div class="og_rss_groups"></div> </article> <article> <h1>Why worry?</h1> <p>aneumann — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 02:38:31 +0000</p> <div class="field field-type-filefield field-field-image"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <div class="filefield-file clear-block"><div class="filefield-icon field-icon-image-jpeg"></div><a href="http://www.wels.net/sites/wels/files/Teen.jpg" type="image/jpeg; length=48280">Teen.jpg</a></div> </div> </div> </div> <p><strong></strong><em>When the car breaks down in the middle of nowhere, a family learns who is in control.<br></em><br>When was the last time that you worried about something? We all worry. It is simply our sinful human nature to fret when we can't control the little and big things in life. When we face troubles in life, we need to remember who is in control of our lives.</p><div class="field field-type-nodereference field-field-callout"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <a href="/callout/free-me-worry">Free me from worry</a> </div> <div class="field-item even"> <a href="/callout/just-you">Just for you</a> </div> <div class="field-item odd"> <a href="/callout/prayer">PRAYER</a> </div> </div> </div> <div class="og_rss_groups"></div> </article> <article> <h1>Shattering the myths</h1> <p>aneumann — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 02:37:16 +0000</p> <div class="field field-type-filefield field-field-image"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <div class="filefield-file clear-block"><div class="filefield-icon field-icon-image-jpeg"></div><a href="http://www.wels.net/sites/wels/files/single.jpg" type="image/jpeg; length=51956">single.jpg</a></div> </div> </div> </div> <p><strong></strong><em>Understanding God's purpose for singles helps combat three myths.<br></em><br>The phone rings. It's your long-lost friend, "just calling to see how you were doing." He begins regaling you with everything that happened in the past months, including his engagement. Before you get a word in, he asks . . . <br><br>It's Thanksgiving. You're seated around a table piled high with turkey and candied yams, making small talk.</p><div class="field field-type-nodereference field-field-callout"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <a href="/streams/podcasts/content/devotion-talking-god-in-prayer-100307">Devotion - Talking with God in Prayer - 10/03/07</a> </div> <div class="field-item even"> <a href="/callout/have-story-share">HAVE A STORY TO SHARE?</a> </div> <div class="field-item odd"> <a href="/callout/just-you">Just for you</a> </div> </div> </div> <div class="og_rss_groups"></div> </article> <article> <h1>With God all things are possible</h1> <p>aneumann — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 02:35:39 +0000</p> <div class="field field-type-filefield field-field-image"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <div class="filefield-file clear-block"><div class="filefield-icon field-icon-image-jpeg"></div><a href="http://www.wels.net/sites/wels/files/specialNeeds.jpg" type="image/jpeg; length=53912">specialNeeds.jpg</a></div> </div> </div> </div> <p><strong></strong><em>These works remind a family to rely on God as they care for children with special needs.<br></em><br>It's early morning, and most of the houses in Muskego, Wis., are still dark and quiet; but inside one house the hum of oxygen machines and medical pumps can be heard. Just down the hall, a clock reads 4:30 A.M. The alarm sounds, signaling the start of another busy day for Ginger and Richard Braam.</p><div class="field field-type-nodereference field-field-callout"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <a href="/prayer-strength">PRAYER FOR STRENGTH</a> </div> <div class="field-item even"> <a href="/callout/parenting">Parenting</a> </div> <div class="field-item odd"> <a href="/daily-devotion">DAILY DEVOTION</a> </div> <div class="field-item even"> <a href="/callout/just-you">Just for you</a> </div> <div class="field-item odd"> <a href="/callout/have-story-share">HAVE A STORY TO SHARE?</a> </div> </div> </div> <div class="og_rss_groups"></div> </article> <article> <h1>Now what?</h1> <p>aneumann — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 02:34:49 +0000</p> <div class="field field-type-filefield field-field-image"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <div class="filefield-file clear-block"><div class="filefield-icon field-icon-image-jpeg"></div><a href="http://www.wels.net/sites/wels/files/seniors.jpg" type="image/jpeg; length=52804">seniors.jpg</a></div> </div> </div> </div> <p><strong></strong><em>Retirement is not all fun and games. But it's also not the end of life. Each day is a new time to live, love, laugh, and be happy because of our precious Savior.<br></em><br>"I'm sure glad I'm past that," my wife comments when we see a mother wrestling with her crying baby in a store.<br><br>"Look at all those people hurrying off to work," my husband chuckles as we head out for a leisurely breakfast.<br><br></p><div class="field field-type-nodereference field-field-callout"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <a href="/daily-devotion">DAILY DEVOTION</a> </div> <div class="field-item even"> <a href="/volunteer-0">VOLUNTEER</a> </div> <div class="field-item odd"> <a href="/callout/spiritual-gifts">Spiritual gifts</a> </div> <div class="field-item even"> <a href="/callout/just-you">Just for you</a> </div> </div> </div> <div class="og_rss_groups"></div> </article> <article> <h1>1GR8MOM</h1> <p>aneumann — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 02:33:41 +0000</p> <div class="field field-type-filefield field-field-image"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <div class="filefield-file clear-block"><div class="filefield-icon field-icon-image-jpeg"></div><a href="http://www.wels.net/sites/wels/files/parenting.jpg" type="image/jpeg; length=53420">parenting.jpg</a></div> </div> </div> </div> <p><em><strong></strong>The worlds' view of mommy-greatness differs from God's view of a faithful mother.<br></em><br>The day God blessed me with my first child, I began my pursuit of mommy-greatness. After all, this is what I'd wanted since I was a little girl watching my mother care for my siblings. The least I could do, out of thankfulness for this blessing, was give motherhood my best.<br></p><div class="field field-type-nodereference field-field-callout"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <a href="/callout/prayer">PRAYER</a> </div> <div class="field-item even"> <a href="/daily-devotion">DAILY DEVOTION</a> </div> <div class="field-item odd"> <a href="/callout/just-you">Just for you</a> </div> <div class="field-item even"> <a href="/callout/have-story-share">HAVE A STORY TO SHARE?</a> </div> </div> </div> <div class="og_rss_groups"></div> </article> <article> <h1>Soldier in Christ</h1> <p>aneumann — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 02:32:32 +0000</p> <div class="field field-type-filefield field-field-image"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <div class="filefield-file clear-block"><div class="filefield-icon field-icon-image-jpeg"></div><a href="http://www.wels.net/sites/wels/files/military.jpg" type="image/jpeg; length=56107">military.jpg</a></div> </div> </div> </div> <p>Moving away from the regular routine of worship comes with challenges, but the Lord remains ready to speak to our hearts and strengthen our faith.<br><br>When I spoke for the Kettle Moraine Lutheran High School graduating class of 2003, I truly thought that I knew what steps lay ahead of me. I knew that I was going to report to the United States Military Academy at West Point in less than a month.</p> <div class="field field-type-nodereference field-field-callout"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <a href="/callout/sermons-american-forces-network">Sermons on American Forces Network</a> </div> <div class="field-item even"> <a href="/callout/online-devotions">Online devotions</a> </div> <div class="field-item odd"> <a href="/callout/spiritual-support">Spiritual support</a> </div> </div> </div> <div class="og_rss_groups"></div> </article> <article> <h1>Wanted: A truly beautiful wife</h1> <p>aneumann — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 02:31:38 +0000</p> <div class="field field-type-filefield field-field-image"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <div class="filefield-file clear-block"><div class="filefield-icon field-icon-image-jpeg"></div><a href="http://www.wels.net/sites/wels/files/men.jpg" type="image/jpeg; length=46611">men.jpg</a></div> </div> </div> </div> <p><strong></strong><em>What to look for when choosing the woman you want to marry.<br></em><br>I married the most beautiful woman I ever met. <br><br>She was charming and funny, lively and loved by all. Her greatest personal gifts were with children—an excellent sign. And her face I could look into for the rest of my life. Her heart (to say nothing of a second date) was not easily won. But when she gave it, she gave it completely.<br><br></p><div class="field field-type-nodereference field-field-callout"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <a href="/callout/have-story-share">HAVE A STORY TO SHARE?</a> </div> <div class="field-item even"> <a href="/callout/just-you">Just for you</a> </div> </div> </div> <div class="og_rss_groups"></div> </article> <article> <h1>Marriage is a lifetime</h1> <p>aneumann — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 02:30:29 +0000</p> <div class="field field-type-filefield field-field-image"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <div class="filefield-file clear-block"><div class="filefield-icon field-icon-image-jpeg"></div><a href="http://www.wels.net/sites/wels/files/marriage.jpg" type="image/jpeg; length=45727">marriage.jpg</a></div> </div> </div> </div> <p><strong></strong><em>Married life together is a joy when shared with one who trusts the same Savior.<br></em><br>There I was. Standing on a bridge, looking down at my boyfriend who was on one knee holding a jewelry box . . . and wearing a Post-it® Note on his forehead. "This is the one, Laura. -God," it read. <br><br></p><div class="og_rss_groups"></div> </article> <article> <h1>No need to be lonely</h1> <p>aneumann — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 02:29:38 +0000</p> <div class="field field-type-filefield field-field-image"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <div class="filefield-file clear-block"><div class="filefield-icon field-icon-image-jpeg"></div><a href="http://www.wels.net/sites/wels/files/lonley.jpg" type="image/jpeg; length=35767">lonley.jpg</a></div> </div> </div> </div> <p><strong></strong><em>The protective, abiding presence of the Lord brings great comfort and strength to people in all times of loneliness.<br></em><br>Put the word "loneliness" on a blank page or a note card. Think about it, and then write the answer to the question: "What does loneliness mean to me?" You may be surprised at what you write down.<br><br><strong><p><strong></strong><em>The protective, abiding presence of the Lord brings great comfort and strength to people in all times of loneliness.<br></em><br>Put the word "loneliness" on a blank page or a note card. Think about it, and then write the answer to the question: "What does loneliness mean to me?" You may be surprised at what you write down.<br><br><strong>Types of loneliness<br></strong>Several different types of loneliness exist.</p></strong></p><div class="field field-type-nodereference field-field-callout"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <a href="/streams/podcasts/content/sermon-lean-god-alone-100707">Sermon - Lean on God Alone - 10/07/07</a> </div> <div class="field-item even"> <a href="/daily-devotion">DAILY DEVOTION</a> </div> <div class="field-item odd"> <a href="/prayer-strength">PRAYER FOR STRENGTH</a> </div> <div class="field-item even"> <a href="/callout/just-you">Just for you</a> </div> </div> </div> <div class="og_rss_groups"></div> </article> <article> <h1>Jim has passed away</h1> <p>aneumann — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 02:28:45 +0000</p> <div class="field field-type-filefield field-field-image"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <div class="filefield-file clear-block"><div class="filefield-icon field-icon-image-jpeg"></div><a href="http://www.wels.net/sites/wels/files/inmates.jpg" type="image/jpeg; length=41443">inmates.jpg</a></div> </div> </div> </div> <p><strong></strong>I have learned that Jim has passed away; he was living in the state prison at Florence, Arizona when he died. He was an inmate; resident is the word they prefer now. I'd like to tell you a little of his story.<br><br>There's no mistaking that Jim went wrong. The charge was murder and he did it.</p><div class="field field-type-nodereference field-field-callout"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <a href="/streams/podcasts/content/devotion-escaping-death-feb-20-2009">Devotion - Escaping Death - Feb. 20, 2009</a> </div> <div class="field-item even"> <a href="/callout/just-you">Just for you</a> </div> <div class="field-item odd"> <a href="/callout/have-story-share">HAVE A STORY TO SHARE?</a> </div> </div> </div> <div class="og_rss_groups"></div> </article> <article> <h1>Thou shall NOT . . .</h1> <p>aneumann — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 02:27:44 +0000</p> <div class="field field-type-filefield field-field-image"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <div class="filefield-file clear-block"><div class="filefield-icon field-icon-image-jpeg"></div><a href="http://www.wels.net/sites/wels/files/steal_book.jpg" type="image/jpeg; length=51683">steal_book.jpg</a></div> </div> </div> </div> <p><strong></strong><em>Why not steal? What motivates us to do the right thing?<br></em><br>I was at a major chain bookstore the other day when, on my way out the door, one of the super-discounted sale books in the entranceway caught my eye. I stood there for a few minutes flipping through the book. <br><br>As I put the book back on the shelf, it occurred to me how easy it would be for me to steal that book.</p><div class="field field-type-nodereference field-field-callout"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <a href="/callout/just-you">Just for you</a> </div> <div class="field-item even"> <a href="/callout/prayer">PRAYER</a> </div> <div class="field-item odd"> <a href="/daily-devotion">DAILY DEVOTION</a> </div> <div class="field-item even"> <a href="/callout/have-story-share">HAVE A STORY TO SHARE?</a> </div> </div> </div> <div class="og_rss_groups"></div> </article> <article> <h1>Love money?</h1> <p>aneumann — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 02:25:44 +0000</p> <div class="field field-type-filefield field-field-image"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <div class="filefield-file clear-block"><div class="filefield-icon field-icon-image-jpeg"></div><a href="http://www.wels.net/sites/wels/files/financial.jpg" type="image/jpeg; length=39009">financial.jpg</a></div> </div> </div> </div> <p><strong></strong><em><strong></strong>Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, "Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you." So we say with confidence, "The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?" <a class="lbsBibleRef" href="http://bible.logos.com/passage/niv/Hebrews%2013.5" target="_blank">Hebrews 13:5</a>,<a class="lbsBibleRef" href="http://bible.logos.com/passage/niv/Hebrews%2013.6" target="_blank">6</a><br></em><br>We know it's not right to love money.<br><br></p><div class="og_rss_groups"></div> </article> <article> <h1>PICKING UP THE PIECES</h1> <p>aneumann — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 02:19:43 +0000</p> <div class="field field-type-filefield field-field-image"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <div class="filefield-file clear-block"><div class="filefield-icon field-icon-image-jpeg"></div><a href="http://www.wels.net/sites/wels/files/divorce_0.jpg" type="image/jpeg; length=51339">divorce.jpg</a></div> </div> </div> </div> <p><strong></strong><em>The aftermath of divorce can be hard to recover from. Here is advice from one Christian counselor.</em><br><br>"Julie" walked into my counseling office and sat down.<br><br>I asked: "How can I help you?"<br><br>Julie's eyes filled with tears as she said: "I never thought my marriage would end in divorce. 'Bob' and I were high school sweethearts.</p><div class="field field-type-nodereference field-field-callout"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <a href="/callout/just-you">Just for you</a> </div> <div class="field-item even"> <a href="/callout/have-story-share">HAVE A STORY TO SHARE?</a> </div> </div> </div> <div class="og_rss_groups"></div> </article> <article> <h1>YOU CAN HELP</h1> <p>aneumann — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 02:16:56 +0000</p> <div class="field field-type-filefield field-field-image"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <div class="filefield-file clear-block"><div class="filefield-icon field-icon-image-jpeg"></div><a href="http://www.wels.net/sites/wels/files/depression.jpg" type="image/jpeg; length=42381">depression.jpg</a></div> </div> </div> </div> <p>One woman's story of how depression ruled her life.<br><br>It was my fourth hospitalization in two years. I hadn't eaten for six days. Medical doctors were checking for any physical problems, but couldn't find anything wrong. The psychiatrist threatened court-ordered tube feeding. You see, I chose not to eat. I outright refused food! I even broke the plastic tableware the nurses brought.</p><div class="field field-type-nodereference field-field-callout"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <a href="/callout/just-you">Just for you</a> </div> <div class="field-item even"> <a href="/prayer-strength">PRAYER FOR STRENGTH</a> </div> <div class="field-item odd"> <a href="/callout/have-story-share">HAVE A STORY TO SHARE?</a> </div> <div class="field-item even"> <a href="/callout/christian-counseling">Christian counseling</a> </div> </div> </div> <div class="og_rss_groups"></div> </article> <article> <h1>TO DIE IS GAIN</h1> <p>aneumann — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 02:14:49 +0000</p> <div class="field field-type-filefield field-field-image"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <div class="filefield-file clear-block"><div class="filefield-icon field-icon-image-jpeg"></div><a href="http://www.wels.net/sites/wels/files/dying.jpg" type="image/jpeg; length=31988">dying.jpg</a></div> </div> </div> </div> <p><em>What comfort can we take when a child dies? Whenever children of God die, young or old, they'll see Jesus in heaven.<br></em><br>Kayla had been my daughter's best friend in first grade. They not only spent time together in the classroom and on the playground, but also would often spend time together playing at each other's house.</p><div class="field field-type-nodereference field-field-callout"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <a href="/streams/podcasts/content/devotion-jesus-cure-death-061808">Devotion - Jesus is the Cure for Death - 06/18/08</a> </div> <div class="field-item even"> <a href="/can-we-pray-you">CAN WE PRAY FOR YOU?</a> </div> <div class="field-item odd"> <a href="/callout/just-you">Just for you</a> </div> </div> </div> <div class="og_rss_groups"></div> </article> <article> <h1>WALK OF FAITH ON CAMPUS</h1> <p>aneumann — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 02:08:56 +0000</p> <div class="field field-type-filefield field-field-image"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <div class="filefield-file clear-block"><div class="filefield-icon field-icon-image-jpeg"></div><a href="http://www.wels.net/sites/wels/files/campus.jpg" type="image/jpeg; length=52766">campus.jpg</a></div> </div> </div> </div> <p><em>The answer to problems in college is the same as the answer when you're</em><em> out of college—put your faith in God.<br></em><br>Many children are brought up in loving Christian families with positive influences in their lives every day. But what happens when the water wings are taken away and that child is sent off to float alone at a public college?</p><div class="field field-type-nodereference field-field-callout"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <a href="/callout/find-church-near-you">Find a church near you</a> </div> <div class="field-item even"> <a href="/callout/feeding-your-faith">Feeding your faith</a> </div> <div class="field-item odd"> <a href="/callout/just-you">Just for you</a> </div> </div> </div> <div class="og_rss_groups"></div> </article> <article> <h1>CHILDREN: ON LOAN</h1> <p>aneumann — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 02:01:31 +0000</p> <div class="field field-type-filefield field-field-image"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <div class="filefield-file clear-block"><div class="filefield-icon field-icon-image-jpeg"></div><a href="http://www.wels.net/sites/wels/files/birth.jpg" type="image/jpeg; length=45643">birth.jpg</a></div> </div> </div> </div> <p><strong></strong>I was amazed when the doctors at Saint Luke's Hospital let my husband and me—and our new baby—just walk out the door.<br><br>For 48 hours they had observed every medical phenomenon in my body and screened our new baby even more closely. She was weighed, measured, and monitored. Scrubbed, rubbed, and wrapped.</p><div class="field field-type-nodereference field-field-callout"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <a href="/callout/just-you">Just for you</a> </div> <div class="field-item even"> <a href="/callout/thinking-about-your-baptism">Thinking about your baptism</a> </div> <div class="field-item odd"> <a href="/callout/parenting">Parenting</a> </div> <div class="field-item even"> <a href="/callout/have-story-share">HAVE A STORY TO SHARE?</a> </div> </div> </div> <div class="og_rss_groups"></div> </article> <article> <h1>TIME FLIES</h1> <p>aneumann — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 01:18:30 +0000</p> <div class="field field-type-filefield field-field-image"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <div class="filefield-file clear-block"><div class="filefield-icon field-icon-image-jpeg"></div><a href="http://www.wels.net/sites/wels/files/aging.jpg" type="image/jpeg; length=54034">aging.jpg</a></div> </div> </div> </div> <p><em>Our Lord uses the passing of time, our growing older, and our maturing in the Christian faith to cause us to appreciate the value of time.<br></em><br>I've heard so many people say it. I've often thought it myself, and maybe you believe it too: "The older one gets, the faster time flies."<br><br><strong>The passing of time<br></strong>I think I know now why that seems to happen.</p><div class="field field-type-nodereference field-field-callout"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <a href="/volunteer-0">VOLUNTEER</a> </div> <div class="field-item even"> <a href="/callout/have-story-share">HAVE A STORY TO SHARE?</a> </div> <div class="field-item odd"> <a href="/callout/give-me-peace">Give me peace</a> </div> </div> </div> <div class="og_rss_groups"></div> </article> <article> <h1>Addicted</h1> <p>gravitek — Wed, 22 Jul 2009 21:48:00 +0000</p> <div class="field field-type-filefield field-field-image"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <div class="filefield-file clear-block"><div class="filefield-icon field-icon-image-jpeg"></div><a href="http://www.wels.net/sites/wels/files/beer.jpg" type="image/jpeg; length=68604">beer.jpg</a></div> </div> </div> </div> <p><em>Drinking can consume anyone, and often the way out is difficult.</em></p> <div class="field field-type-nodereference field-field-callout"> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> <a href="/callout/have-story-share">HAVE A STORY TO SHARE?</a> </div> <div class="field-item even"> <a href="/callout/need-help">Need help?</a> </div> <div class="field-item odd"> <a href="/callout/christian-counseling">Christian counseling</a> </div> <div class="field-item even"> <a href="/prayer-strength">PRAYER FOR STRENGTH</a> </div> </div> </div> <div class="og_rss_groups"></div> </article> <article> <h1>Welcome to College</h1> <p>gravitek — Mon, 18 May 2009 15:21:24 +0000</p> <div class="field field-type-text field-field-author"> <div class="field-label">Author: </div> <div class="field-items"> <div class="field-item odd"> Ashley Timmerman </div> </div> </div> <p>Fusce malesuada tortor suscipit justo sollicitudin pretium? Nullam sit amet magna id diam adipiscing ultrices et ut risus. Maecenas placerat, sapien a pretium dictum; nibh felis congue mauris, vel aliquam ligula quam et metus. Mauris urna quam, ultrices vitae eleifend eu, ultricies non diam. Nam aliquet magna suscipit nulla interdum pulvinar.</p> <div class="og_rss_groups"></div> </article> </main></body></html>