About the Author

Robin is the author of For All Who Wander, her relatable memoir about wrestling with doubt that reads much like a conversation with a friend. She's as Southern as sugar-shocked tea, married to her college sweetheart, and has three children. An empty nester with a full life, she's determined to...

(in)side DaySpring: things we love
& you will too!
Find more at DaySpring.com
(in)side DaySpring:
things we love
& you will too!
Find more at
DaySpring.com
Recent Posts

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. I always love reading 1 Peter. It’s packed full of wonderful words that make me excited for heaven, but it challenges me to live a life that is reverent and true to my faith in God. It’s practical and lifts my thoughts higher, at the same time.
    Sounds like such a great talk you had from those three lovely ladies, thanks for sharing their comments! I don’t hear enough from godly older women. I do find it so much easier to read about the bible than to read the bible itself. And to rush my reading when I finally do sit down to read the bible. This year I started lighting a candle, trying to trick my brain to keep me sitting still. It works … when I remember it!

    • Fiona,

      First, thank you for directing me to Peter’s words this morning; I accidentally started in 2 Peter (so good!) before reading in 1 Peter. To begin on such a strong note of hope and sureness of our salvation is something surely we all need to remember.

      What a great thought about why you light a candle–to invite you to linger! I’ve often known believers to light one as they read, but it never occurred to me it was invitation to settle while you focus on the Light of life :).

  2. This post is so convicting for this girl-with-the-nose-in-her-book. I want to come to the inspired Book with the same fervency that I dig into the books penned by human authors.
    And for me, the book of Isaiah seems to be the place my eyes need to land most often.

    • Michele,

      I think many of us benefit from a reminder to read THE Word :). You’re in good company.

      Isaiah…there are words and thoughts in that book that blow me away. Familiar passages remind us of God’s intentionality from the beginning, a plan for those He loves for reconciliation and redemption, comfort…assurance…and acknowledgment that His ways are so different than ours. Thank you for pointing me in its direction this morning :).

  3. Robin,
    It’s so hard to pick just one book of the Bible. Psalm 140: 1-3 is my life verse and I’ve found much consolation in the Psalms, but Romans has helped me get over my guilt trips and feeling like I fall short in the Lord’s eyes. It boldly starts out with “Therefore, there is now NO condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” (Romans 8:1) emphasis mine. What a reassurance that it is finished. No more anxiety, striving, perfectionism, not feeling like your enough needed. Christ did it all and there is no longer any condemnation. We are seen as perfect in our Abba Daddy’s eyes.

    These other nuggets are just a few in Romans…
    28 And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who[i] have been called according to his purpose.

    37 No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. 38 For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons,[k] neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, 39 neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

    Sorry so long, but what glorious reassurance. Being in the Word every day is our lifeline….loved this post Robin!
    Blessings,
    Bev xo

    • Bev,

      Consolation is an incredible concept, one human coming to another to minister healing, refuge, empathy, grace. Psalms overflows with the consolation of the Lord, indeed.

      I love Romans, too; you’ll see it woven into my story in the book I’m writing–the two verses you cited are so dear to me, incredibly impactful.

      You’re always such an encouragement, Bev :). xo

  4. Thanks for sharing this Robin.

    « Am I spending more time reading God’s Word or reading books about God’s Word? Do I value Scripture first and most?«  – This spoke to me…God bless you…

    Recently I have been feeling the Holy Spirit directing me to read the word direct from the Bible as a means to hearing God for a lot of answer I am seeking.

    Over the years I have been reading a lot of devotionals and books online and offline and I Love ❤️ to read as much as I write. Over the past week and weekend watching and listening to Joel Osteen on You tube has been my anchor inspiration and this morning I watched one of His messages « You Have A Defender » twice and in those two times a Scripture (Psalms 46:10a) God spoke to me audibly in 2013 kept repeating itself and ringing in my ears as Joel said them « Be Still and Know That He is God » and with me not knowing where I am going to spend the night today nor if I will be able to continue in my current role nor what the doctor is about to interpret as the reason for my ailment that has kept me off work for over a week and seen me go through X-ray and a series of test over the past week not to mention that all my finances in the past 5 months has been spent in hospital admission ,tests, drugs and trying to stay alive and healthy and being in a place of waiting for a life partner and being home (I practically don’t have one as I have been moving and living with one person or the other or in one hotel or guest house or the other) alone in nigeria with my parents and only sibling on the other side of the world and continent…

    I can hear God saying to me as I type «God is in the midst of her. She shall not fail » I am reminded that God is indeed in the midst of me amdist all these and I shall not fail. It’s a scripture in the Psalm I believe. This morning as I walked toward the busy stop to get a cab the hospital against my plan of returning to work today I could feel the peace ✌️ of God that passeth all understanding and I am comforted in my favourite scripture Jeremiah 29:11 – For I know the plans I have you…plans of good and not of evil…to give you a future and a hope…

    The Lord has good plans for me and for us all…It May be contrary to all we dream and desire and sometimes it may be painful and require death of even the very dream God gave us but if we stay in faith and hold on to His word then His good plans eventually prevails….

    • Ada Joe, it sounds like yours has been a difficult journey; I’m praying for you this morning–for complete healing, wisdom from your doctors, and celebrating God in your midst :).

  5. Recently, I listened to a podcast of a dear friend interviewing Donna Otto (https://www.everywisewomanbuilds.com/single-post/2018/06/05/Donna-Otto-Talks-About-How-Elisabeth-Elliot-Mentored-Her-Part-1) so Donna’s name stood out when I read your article! (Before that, I’d not heard of her.) I appreciated your takeaways and photo, Robin. How cool that they sang to you for your birthday!

    My favorite book of the Bible is Hosea. It’s a heartbreaking story of a faithless people and their faithful God. Despite themselves, God refuses to quit loving His people on His terms. I desperately needed to know then (and continue to marvel now) that my sin does not disqualify me from His love.

    • Pearl,

      I had never heard of Donna Otto until that conference, either. She’s a ball of fire :).

      And, YES! That my sin doesn’t disqualify me from God’s love blows…me…away. Oh, the price He paid for us all….

      xo

  6. I have so many favorites. Romans, Galations, Ephesians, Proverbs. LOVE, LOVE, LOVE, Proverbs!!! But the one scripture that comes to my mind more that any other is 1Corinthians 2:9….”Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man the things which God has prepared for them that love Him” I live in the country. Yesterday, my husband and I were looking outside our window into the back yard and a beautiful fawn frolicked out of the trees and scampered all around, bounding to and fro, jumping high, enjoying life. We couldn’t take our eyes off of it and watched it until it darted back into the woods. A few hours later we were outside and noticed a robin fly out of one of our little trees lining our driveway. We knew there must be a nest in there. And sure enough, my husband looked down into it and took a picture with his phone…two beautiful little blue eggs nestled into their home. I have lived in this area the majority of my life. I am 65 years old. I have seen countless baby deer and birds nests my whole life. And it always has the same affect… it feels like the first time. It’s like a rainbow. No matter how many I’ve seen, I still feel happy and hopeful when one appears. I see the heart of God in those things. It brings me joy and peace. God is so magnificent. And that scripture came to mind again. I can’t even begin to imagine what God has prepared for us.

    • How beautiful, Karen. Your words testifying to the newness of life found in nature was a lovely encouragement. The images of frolicking deer and robin/nest/eggs is such a strong visual. That you continue to see these things like the first is a dear thing…OH, that we ALL would have eyes to see! xo

  7. Robin!!! I LOVE Donna Otto!! I started reading her books about 10 years ago and her advice on home and time management was a huge jumping off place for me when I was a new wife and a younger Mom. It literally shaped the home I have today. I also have moderate envy that you got to meet her! lol

    • Michelle,

      Few people have heard of Donna when I’ve mentioned her, so I’m thrilled to hear you had already been “introduced.” 🙂 She commands the stage with her presence, and she loved sharing her message. There was so much wisdom up on that stage, and I know I was fortunate to be there. Isn’t it fantastic when you can look back and see the fingerprints of special influences in your life?

  8. Robin,
    Thank-you so much for this refreshment…..to look to His word. I know I need to take the time to read more of it.

    ‘Thou Lord Knowest It’
    Psalms 139.3

    Thankful that we can Trust that God knows it all.
    Have a blessed day all,
    Penny

  9. I loved this Robin.
    In my 20’s I had an incredible mentor who told me to pray and ask God for a love for His Word. I did this off and on for years. After about ten years, I realized how much I loved God’s Word, how much I needed it and wanted it everyday.
    Now in my mid 60’s and working on Young Life College staff, I am passionate about sharing the importance of God’s Word, the TRUTH of it and as the standard to live by. I start my reading in the Word everyday by praying from Psalms 25 Guide me in Your Truth and teach me, for You are God, my hope in in you all day long”

    • Missy,

      What a special blessing this mentor was; and now YOU are the one influencing young people! What a “paycheck” back to her, the kind with eternal value!! 🙂 xo

  10. What motivated me to read my Bible more was teaching and preaching I heard years ago that I was pretty sure was not Biblical. I didn’t want to fall for something that wasn’t sound doctrine, and that meant, reading my Bible more so I would instantly recognize those who twist or change the intended message of Scripture.

    My favorite books are the Psalms, Nehemiah, and John. I love to read the Psalms aloud and hear the beauty of the rich language.

    • Kathy,

      That’s a cool example for what motivated you to dig into scripture. Something pricked your heart and you knew you needed to know TRUTH. I’ve never thought about reading the Psalms out loud to hear the language as you’ve described. Hmmm…I think I’ll try that :).

  11. Ok, so I have two favorite books – the book of James (I call it “where the rubber hits the road”) and the book of Job. LOVE me some Job. The back and forth between him and his “friends,” and then my all-time favorite part of the Bible: when God (first) lets him question GOD, then sits him down and tells him him that it’s God’s turn to ask the questions! And proceeds to ask Job, “where were you when I laid the earth’s foundation?” Fabulous!

    • Elaine, well now…you’ve given me a new way to appreciate Job. Talk about a gentle rebuke…or better yet, attitude adjustment :). And yes…good ol’ James. His words are helpful in figuring out the working of our faith. It’s nice to have a book that’s so practical. Thanks for chiming in, Elaine!

  12. Ladies all your replies are words if Encouragement for me. Been struggling…. God never fails & is Always on time. Thank you! Needed assurance & comfort today. No matter my situation My God is here, present & able! I’m guilty if reading more of books,devotions & blogs more than The Bible. I asked for direction today & he is giving & leading my path. So so I will begin!

    • Arlena,

      “Now” is always the perfect time to begin a new thing. Never believe the lie that it’s “too late.” I’m praying for you this morning, too.

  13. Robin,

    For a few years I read through the Bible in a year. I did it as I felt challenged by my pastor to be in the word daily. I’ve read the Bible & heard enough sermons to have some scripture memorized. My life verse is Jeremiah 29:11 “For I know the plans I have for you” declares the Lord. “plans to prosper you & not to harm you. To give you a hope & a future. It brings my life into focus. I like Esther. It teaches that God places us in various places to carry out His plans. Ruth is a great book also. It talks about God redeeming our lives. He can take disaster & make something better out of it!

    Blessings 🙂

    • Beth,

      I’ve read through the Bible before, too, but I’m afraid it was more of a box-checking thing than love for His word. Still, it’s putting Spirit-filled words into my mind, and that’s always good. Ruth and Esther…mercy, we can learn so much in those precious books and lives!

  14. Matthew is my favorite as I find his parable teachings and the way he described things the most convicting to me.

    • Erin,

      We get to see such a clear picture of Jesus in Matthew’s inspired words. Some of my favorite life verses come from him… :).

  15. Is it ok for me to say that I don’t have a favorite book of the Bible. I love the OT for its crazy drama! I love the NT because…well, JESUS! I love how all the writers’ — prophets, poets, kings, shepherds, tent-makers, judges, queens, lawyers, and more — words collectively convey the essence of God — LOVE!!! I love the Bible as a frame, definition and reflection of LOVE.

    • Lucretia…you rule-breaker!! 😉 🙂

      Actually, I’ve been waiting for someone to say that! Two points for you! (not that there’s any right answer; the point was to give us reasons to think differently, and you’ve accomplished that 🙂 ).

      For me, choosing one book is like choosing a favorite child. I love them all uniquely and fiercely. I do know this, I want to love, esteem, regard, understand, abide in, delight in, celebrate, be challenged by, live out the Holy scriptures. They are a feast! xoxo