Cookies and cream

 When God is silent, it can feel heavy—like praying into a quiet room and wondering if anyone is listening. You’re not strange or faithless for feeling that. Many people in the Bible felt it too. Silence doesn’t always mean absence. Sometimes it’s presence without words . A few gentle truths that often help in those seasons: Silence can be an invitation, not a rejection. Like a friend who sits with you without talking, God may be closer than you feel. Feelings aren’t the same as reality. God’s nearness isn’t measured by what we sense, but by who He is. “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted.” (Psalm 34:18) Growth often happens underground. Roots grow in the dark. Faith deepens when it isn’t propped up by constant reassurance. God often speaks differently than we expect. Through Scripture, a sudden peace, a line in a song, a person’s words, or even endurance itself. If prayer feels hard, try this simple one: “God, I don’t feel You—but I’m here.” That coun...

 A cake turns out moist because of a combination of ingredients, techniques, and baking conditions that keep it from drying out. Here’s why your cake might be moist: Fat content – Butter, oil, or other fats coat flour proteins, reducing gluten formation and trapping moisture. Oil-based cakes usually stay moister than butter-only cakes. Sugar – Sugar is hygroscopic, meaning it attracts and holds onto water, which keeps the cake soft. Liquid ratio – Milk, water, juice, or yogurt in the batter adds moisture. Using too little liquid makes a dry cake. Eggs – Eggs provide structure but also add moisture and fat. They help trap air, which makes the cake light and tender. Acidic ingredients – Ingredients like buttermilk, yogurt, or vinegar react with baking soda to create carbon dioxide, keeping the cake airy and less dense, which helps it feel moist. Baking time & temperature – Overbaking is the most common reason cakes dry out. Baking just until a toothpick c...

 It’s really human to feel that way. Relationships—whether friendships, family, or romantic—are tricky because they involve two people with their own thoughts, emotions, and histories. Failing at them sometimes doesn’t mean you’re a “failure”; it just means you’re learning about yourself and others. A few things to consider: Reflection helps: Think about what went wrong and what you could do differently next time, but without harsh self-judgment. Communication matters: Often, conflicts come from misunderstandings or unspoken expectations. Boundaries are healthy: Knowing your own limits and needs makes relationships smoother. Growth is gradual: Every experience—even the hard ones—teaches you something about empathy, trust, and connection.

 Yes 🤍 that’s one of the most tender truths in the Bible. God doesn’t just forgive you or help you from a distance — He adopts you . “You did not receive a spirit of slavery… but you received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry, ‘Abba, Father.’” (Romans 8:15) Adoption means: You are chosen , not tolerated You belong, not as a guest, but as a son or daughter You are loved before you perform, fix yourself, or get strong You have access — you can come to Him anytime, honestly For people who feel brokenhearted, lonely, or unseen, this is huge. God doesn’t wait for you to be “put together.” He brings you into His family as you are . And families are where: wounds are tended growth is patient love is steady If you ever feel like you don’t belong anywhere — this truth gently says: you belong with Him .

 Psalm 34:18 says exactly that: “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” 💛 When you’re hurting, feeling lost, or lonely, this verse is a promise that God isn’t distant. Even when life feels overwhelming or God feels silent, He draws near to comfort, strengthen, and carry you through. A few ways to experience that closeness: Prayer from the heart: You don’t need fancy words—just tell God exactly how you feel. Meditate on His promises: Scripture can feel like a lifeline, reminding you He’s present. Let yourself feel: Sometimes crying, journaling, or talking honestly about your pain lets God’s healing start. Receive support: God often comforts through others—friends, mentors, or community. Being brokenhearted isn’t a sign of weakness—it’s often where God meets us most powerfully. 💛

 Feeling like God is absent can be really heavy, and it’s something almost everyone experiences at some point. It doesn’t mean He isn’t there—it often means your heart or mind is in a season of waiting, testing, or growth. Here are some ways to think about it and respond: 1. Recognize it as a common spiritual season Even biblical figures felt this way—David in many of the Psalms cries out to God, and Jesus Himself experienced a sense of abandonment on the cross. Feeling God’s absence doesn’t mean He has left you; sometimes it’s part of a deeper work in your life. 2. Keep seeking Him intentionally Prayer doesn’t always need to be eloquent; just be honest: “God, I feel far, but I want You.” Scripture reading, worship, or journaling your thoughts can help you feel connected even when it’s quiet. 3. Pay attention to the small ways He shows up God can feel absent when you’re expecting dramatic signs. Look for quiet ways He might be working: Comfort in nature Words ...

 Praying can feel simple or complicated depending on what you expect, but at its heart, it’s just talking to God . Here’s a clear way to start: 1. Find a quiet space You don’t need a special place — even sitting on your bed or outside works. The goal is to be able to focus without distractions. 2. Start with greeting Begin by acknowledging God. Example: “Father, I come to You today…” or “Jesus, I thank You for Your love.” 3. Confess / be honest Tell God about things you’re struggling with, mistakes you’ve made, or fears you have. He knows already, but saying it out loud helps you be real. Example: “I’ve been feeling anxious and lonely. Please help me.” 4. Thank Him Thank God for what He’s done in your life, even small things. Gratitude keeps your heart open. Example: “Thank You for my family, for today, for keeping me safe.” 5. Ask for help Bring your needs, dreams, or desires before Him. Example: “Please give me courage to face th...