Ryan Stratton

Real Strength

One of the traits I have observed people attempting to show is being a “strong man” or “strong woman.” I believe it is important to be a strong person; however, it also seems that people may have somewhat of a wrong idea about what it means to be strong. These are some qualities that mayContinue reading “Real Strength”

The Purpose of Our Gifts

Each one of us has been given certain gifts. We can call these talents or natural abilities. What we call them doesn’t matter as long as we can understand why we have been given these gifts/abilities and how we can humbly live with them and continue to learn about and develop these gifts. This videoContinue reading “The Purpose of Our Gifts”

Lord, I

How many of us have started our prayers with, “Lord, I…” and precede to tell God everything we want God to do for us? Last week, as I was praying, I noticed the prayer started with, “Lord, I…” Yes there were legitimate things I was praying about; but I asked myself, “how does this phraseContinue reading “Lord, I”

Why?

There is a simple question most children will ask and it consists of three letters–“Why?”. They are curious and are simply seeking out answers so they can try to learn what’s going on or the reason behind a particular question or statement, etc. As I have grown older, “why” has become a favorite question forContinue reading “Why?”

Say What?

“I can’t believe you just said that!” “Well, if you knew what I was really thinking…” How often have we said or thought those phrases or something like them? I bet you’re like me and often hear the meaning behind the words even if that’s not what the person meant. I do not particularly enjoyContinue reading “Say What?”

Communication & Prayer

It is easier to internalize everything than talk about it. We find it easier to talk with people than to speak to God. “Just pray about it.” We hear this a lot, but why? *What is prayer? How do I know what to say? *What posture should we use for prayer? *Public or private prayer?Continue reading “Communication & Prayer”

What Do You See?

Cloud gazing is fun and relaxing for me. It’s fun to see different shapes, animals, faces, etc. We should all use our imaginations more. As children we make up games, rules, and like to come up with the best costume for Halloween. Our imaginations help our creativity. This shows we can have fun in lifeContinue reading “What Do You See?”

Faded Reflections

If I were to ask you what you least liked about yourself you may go quiet and say you don’t want to talk about it, or you may quickly say something regarding your apearance. Why do we do this? Why do we see the worst in ourselves when our friends and others can see theContinue reading “Faded Reflections”

Sacrifices Today

A common scripture we may hear is Romans 12:1-2. Let’s read this and see again what it says: So, brothers and sisters, because of God’s mercies, I encourage you to present your bodies as a living sacrifice that is holy and pleasing to God. This is your appropriate priestly service. Don’t be conformed to theContinue reading “Sacrifices Today”

Learning About God at the Beach

Standing on the beach and staring at the ocean can make us feel small. We may even feel like there is so much going on around us (birds flying and feeding, waves never ending, avoiding sea weed and jellyfish). With all of this going on around us, it can be difficult to see or hearContinue reading “Learning About God at the Beach”