Scripture speaks more often than we might expect about the hidden places  of the human person. One of its most striking metaphors (oddly!) is the kidneys . In the Old Testament, kidneys are used as an image for the deepest inner workings of a person — the seat of emotion, affection, conscience, and desire: the deepest, most concealed parts of the self . Psalm 26:2 says, “ Test me, Lord, and try me; examine my heart and my mind.” And Psalm 16:7 declares, “I will pr

Despite what it looks like and what you face: All is well Although the enemy is lined up against you: All is well With the hordes of hell screaming at you to terrify you: All is well Darkness all around, fear all around, horror all around you: All is well.   All is well, though the earth is moved, All is well, though the mountains crumble. All is well, though the seas roar. All is well, though the mountains shake.   For is not our God our refuge and strength? For is not our G