Breaking the Silence with Exciting News!

 Greetings, Hungry for God readers,

I have exciting news to share!

You may have noticed I’ve been a little quiet on the blog recently. Now it’s time to break the silence.

First, I’ve been designing a new website, one better equipped to handle the growing needs of the Hungry for God family. I’d love for you to click over and take a peek (http://www.lorihatcher.com). It’s so pretty! On it you'll find a whole page dedicated to some of the most popular blog posts from Hungry for God. 

You'll also find an About Lori page where I share quirky things you'd never know otherwise, a Speaking Ministry page (I'd love to come to your women's ministry event and encourage you and your friends) and a book page. Click over and check it out. Remember to leave a comment and tell me what you think.

Second, I’ve implemented a new email provider. As of June 30, Google will no longer email out blog posts, so I’ve switched services. This is the last you’ll receive from Feedburner. The only difference you’ll see is that the posts will come from a different address. I plan to continue emailing weekly (Sunday evening) five-minute devotions to encourage you in your faith and keep us connected. Thank you for being part of the Hungry for God family.

To ensure my emails don't go to your Spam or Junk folder, please add feedblitz@mail.feedblitz.com to your address book or approved sender list.

Lastly, I’ve been hard at work on TWO writing projects. I just completed edits on the follow up book to Refresh Your Faith, Refresh Your Prayers, Uncommon Devotions to Restore Power and Praise. This companion volume will release on March 1, 2022.

Here’s a description:

 

Refresh Your Prayers,

 Uncommon Devotions to Restore Power and Praise

Are you struggling in your prayer life? When you talk to God, do you come away with more questions than answers? Do you long for the intimacy you once had or the closeness and power you see in others? 

What if you could sit across the table from a wise friend and sort through the questions you have about prayer?

 

Questions like:

Why does God answer some prayers, but not others?

What’s the secret to effective prayer?

If God is sovereign, why pray at all?

 

Lori Hatcher is that wise friend. In 60 story-driven devotions, she explores the mysterious gift of prayer, wrestles with the questions that plague us, and showcases some of the most beautiful prayers in the Bible. She’ll take you from where you are to where you want to be in your prayer life.

 

The second writing project that has my heart beating hard is a THIRD volume in the Refresh series, Refresh Your Hope, 60 Unshakeable Reasons Not to Lose Heart. Now more than ever we need to be reminded of the solid and unfailing hope only God can give us. Please pray for me as I write. Only God can enable me to write a book that will strengthen your faith and grow your hope.

If you're visiting for the first time, please follow THIS LINK over to the new website and subscribe so I can share weekly five-minute blog posts to refresh your faith and nourish your soul. Www.LoriHatcher.com. See you there!

Does Your Faith Need Refreshing?

That's in the Bible? I've never noticed that before!

It's probably been too long since you've newly discovered a story that speaks to your soul or a verse that pops with truth. But that's about to change!


Refresh Your Faith contains 66 culturally relevant, story-driven devotions, one from each book of the Bible. Each real-life story spotlights an unusual verse or Bible passage that you may have overlooked in your usual Bible reading. Lori Hatcher challenges you with additional features like an uncommon thought to ponder; an unusual faith action step; and an unfamiliar passage suggestion for additional Bible reading.

When the fabulous has become familiar and your quiet times are more like nap times, it's time to step out of spiritual boredom and ignite the spark that will keep you growing. No matter where you are on your faith journey, Lori's conversational and engaging style will challenge you to think about things you've never thought about before.

“Real-life inspiration and candid wit. These 5-minute devotions will change your life.” —Psychologist and best-selling author Dr. Kevin Leman, commenting on Lori Hatcher's devotional style

The Quiche that Makes Friends (Recipe Included)

If I asked you for five well-loved recipes that have been part of your family for years, what would you list? Grandma’s pot roast? Aunt Nenie’s jello salad? Cousin Jane’s chocolate gravy and biscuits? My list would include Linnea’s Baked Beans, Mom’s Potato Salad, and several crock pot staples: Cranberry Chicken, No-Peekie Stew, and Spicy Beef Dip. 

One recipe in my file, however, has done more than feed my hungry family. It’s helped me make friends. I call it Lori’s Quiche. 

I discovered the magic of Lori’s Quiche decades ago when I wanted to invite a new gal I’d met at church over for lunch. I was in the throes of mothering young children, and a normal lunch usually consisted of PB&J or mac and cheese. Not wanting to serve either to my (hopefully) new friend, I leafed through my collection of recipes looking for something nicer. 

To further complicate matters, it was the day before pay day. A run to the grocery store to pick up unusual ingredients was out of the question. I’d have to pull something together with items from my fridge and pantry. That’s when I remembered the quiche recipe I’d scribbled down. 

It wasn’t called Lori’s Quiche then. That came later. As I scanned the list of ingredients, I realized I had everything I needed to throw it together. Eggs, milk, flour, cheese, mayonnaise, and a frozen pie crust. 

That day I made a broccoli and cheddar quiche. My new friend loved it. A young mom herself, she was thrilled to have something hot, savory, and adult. In the years since, I’ve tried a dozen variations—ham, veggie, shrimp, seafood. I’ve even made a Mexican version with hamburger and tomatoes. 

Because the recipe calls for mayonnaise instead of heavy cream like most quiches, I don’t have to plan ahead to make it. I can pull staples from my fridge and have it in the oven in less than 15 minutes. It’s perfect for the spur of the moment opportunity to extend hospitality, take a meal to a sick neighbor, or bring a dish to a luncheon or potluck. 

It even freezes beautifully. Many times I’ll make two. We eat one and stick the other in the freezer, ready and waiting for the next outreach opportunity. 

Since its debut with the gal from church, Lori’s quiche has opened the door to many other friendships. About ten years ago a lady who’d been visiting our Sunday school class had knee surgery. I offered to bring lunch. My quiche and the accompanying visit launched a friendship we continue to enjoy today. 

I’ve served my quiche at ladies’ brunches, baby showers, and church potlucks. I’ve delivered it to new mothers and sick neighbors. As I type this post, I’m looking forward to having lunch with a neighbor who’s recovering from cancer treatment. She’s been the willing guinea pig for several variations. 

One day I invited her over for lunch and realized I’d used the last frozen pie crust and hadn’t replaced it. Since I’d already promised to make quiche, I tried yet another variation—crustless quiche. I combined the ingredients, sprayed a generous coating of Pam on a pie plate, and poured it in. The result was a delicious, gluten-free version I now call Lori’s Frittata. 

If you’re looking for a way to make friends, minister to others, and enjoy delicious food, give my recipe a try. Then prayerfully look for someone to share it with. 

"Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sin. Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling" (1 Peter 4:8-9).

Now it’s your turn. What’s your friend-making, ministry-minded go-to recipe? Leave a comment (and share the recipe if you’d like) in the comments below. If you’re reading by email, CLICK HERE to visit Hungry for God online to leave a comment. 

Does Your Faith Need Refreshing?

That's in the Bible? I've never noticed that before!

It's probably been too long since you've newly discovered a story that speaks to your soul or a verse that pops with truth. But that's about to change!


Refresh Your Faith contains 66 culturally relevant, story-driven devotions, one from each book of the Bible. Each real-life story spotlights an unusual verse or Bible passage that you may have overlooked in your usual Bible reading. Lori Hatcher challenges you with additional features like an uncommon thought to ponder; an unusual faith action step; and an unfamiliar passage suggestion for additional Bible reading.

When the fabulous has become familiar and your quiet times are more like nap times, it's time to step out of spiritual boredom and ignite the spark that will keep you growing. No matter where you are on your faith journey, Lori's conversational and engaging style will challenge you to think about things you've never thought about before.

“Real-life inspiration and candid wit. These 5-minute devotions will change your life.” —Psychologist and best-selling author Dr. Kevin Leman, commenting on Lori Hatcher's devotional style

Are you hungry for God, but starving for time? 
I’d love to send you a 5-minute e-mail devotion twice a week to start your day off with the Lord. 

Sign up for a free subscription to Hungry for God by CLICKING HERE.
Then, be sure to VALIDATE the confirmation email you receive. 

Note: I promise never to spam you or share your email address.

Because busy women need to connect with God in the craziness of everyday life.

God is Nigh --24 Notes of Comfort

All eyes were on the casket, but I saw the soldier in the distance — a solitary figure on the hill. 

Wearing full dress uniform and holding an instrument, the man waited, eyes glued to the flag that draped the coffin. 

He raised the trumpet to his lips, breathing gently on the mouthpiece. Cold instruments produce sour notes, and that wouldn’t do for this World War II veteran’s funeral. 

“As we commit the body of Lawrence Goodwin to the ground and commend his soul to heaven,” the minister said, “I invite you to stand for the presentation of the flag.” 

Heads that had bowed in reverence lifted. Stooping shoulders and bent knees straightened. Right hands raised and settled over aching hearts. 

Two men gently lifted the flag from its sacred place. No longer would it serve as a shroud for the dead. Now it would function as a comfort for the living. 

Clear and mournful, the first notes of Taps slipped from the  trumpet and into the hush that cradled the mourners.

Day is done. 

Like a sleeper awakening from the darkest night, the widow raised her head. 

Gone the sun. 

She turned toward the sound. 

From the lake. 

From the hills. 

From the sky. 

She spotted the lone musician. Made eye contact. Blinked. 

All is well. 

She bowed her head again. 

Safely rest. 

Eyes closed in faith and arms open to receive the flag, she released the breath she’d been holding since her husband took sick. 

God is nigh.

Does Your Faith Need Refreshing?

That's in the Bible? I've never noticed that before!

It's probably been too long since you've newly discovered a story that speaks to your soul or a verse that pops with truth. But that's about to change!


Refresh Your Faith contains 66 culturally relevant, story-driven devotions, one from each book of the Bible. Each real-life story spotlights an unusual verse or Bible passage that you may have overlooked in your usual Bible reading. Lori Hatcher challenges you with additional features like an uncommon thought to ponder; an unusual faith action step; and an unfamiliar passage suggestion for additional Bible reading.

When the fabulous has become familiar and your quiet times are more like nap times, it's time to step out of spiritual boredom and ignite the spark that will keep you growing. No matter where you are on your faith journey, Lori's conversational and engaging style will challenge you to think about things you've never thought about before.

“Real-life inspiration and candid wit. These 5-minute devotions will change your life.” —Psychologist and best-selling author Dr. Kevin Leman, commenting on Lori Hatcher's devotional style

Are you hungry for God, but starving for time? 
I’d love to send you a 5-minute e-mail devotion twice a week to start your day off with the Lord. 

Sign up for a free subscription to Hungry for God by CLICKING HERE.
Then, be sure to VALIDATE the confirmation email you receive. 

Note: I promise never to spam you or share your email address.

Because busy women need to connect with God in the craziness of everyday life.

5 Things You Need to Know about Gossip

“Did you hear what happened with the Fredricksons? I suspected something was going on, but I never imagined it was this bad.”

Gossip is everywhere—break rooms, coffee shops, the gym, and, sadly, even in the church. Sometimes it’s obvious, like the example above. Other times it’s much more subtle.

This post has been moved. We're sorry for the extra step. Please click here to read:

5 Things You Need to Know about Gossip

Random or God-Sent? How Kindness Changes Everything

I was feeling overwhelmed. 

I was trying to be all things to all people—people I love and consider it an honor to serve. The fact that I was running behind didn't help my angst. On the way to bring food and supplies to my dad and my mom, who’d just gotten out of the hospital, nothing had gone as planned that morning.

The grand boys and I decided to stop at Krispy Kreme Doughnuts to pick up a dozen doughnuts, because doughnuts fix everything, right? The drive thru line was a mile long, so I parked, unstrapped both boys from their car seats, and headed in. 

Just grab a dozen doughnuts and get back on the interstate for the 30-mile drive to Mom and Dad's. While we waited for our doughnuts, a young guy with a huge smile struck up a conversation with Andrew, the three year old, who had his nose pressed up against the doughnut case. 

When I pulled out my card to pay for the doughnuts, the guy said to the cashier, “I got this,” and handed her his card.. When I protested, he insisted. 

“I do this about once a month,” he said. “I wait for a group to walk in and take care of their order. It brings me joy. I work as a mentor to youth and help them get on the right path.” 

These doughnuts are for my mom and dad," I told him. "Mom was just released from  the hospital. So you’re not just blessing us, you’re blessing them, too.” 

He smiled even bigger. 

"May I take your picture?" I asked. "People post pictures on social media of people doing bad stuff all the time. I’d like to post a picture of someone doing something good for a change.” 

We posed. He smiled. 

And then he was gone.

You can’t see my smile behind my mask, but you can probably see the tears that sprang to my eyes. 

That young man had no idea what my week had been like, but God did. He moved him to be the hands and feet of Jesus to me. 

Sometimes God moves mountains and parts seas. Other times He buys doughnuts for an overwhelmed woman trying to love and care for her family. 

Thank you, kind stranger, for blessing us with your random act of kindness.

"Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights," (James 1:17).

Have you ever been the recipient of a random act of kindness? Have you ever performed one? Leave a comment and share your story.

Do you live within driving distance of South Carolina?

Are you ready to gather with sisters in Christ for fellowship, games, door prizes, an amazing lunch, and spiritual encouragement?

Please join me at the

Princeton Baptist Church Ladies' Spring Luncheon

Princeton Baptist Church, Honea Path, SC

Saturday, May 8

I'll be sharing the message, 

"Uncommon Hope -- Four Reasons Not to Lose Heart."

The event is free, and childcare is provided, but you must REGISTER.

For more information, contact 

Debbie at ddeciantis57@gmail.com

or phone Irene at 864-369-2275.

Does Your Faith Need Refreshing?

That's in the Bible? I've never noticed that before!

It's probably been too long since you've newly discovered a story that speaks to your soul or a verse that pops with truth. But that's about to change!


Refresh Your Faith contains 66 culturally relevant, story-driven devotions, one from each book of the Bible. Each real-life story spotlights an unusual verse or Bible passage that you may have overlooked in your usual Bible reading. Lori Hatcher challenges you with additional features like an uncommon thought to ponder; an unusual faith action step; and an unfamiliar passage suggestion for additional Bible reading.

When the fabulous has become familiar and your quiet times are more like nap times, it's time to step out of spiritual boredom and ignite the spark that will keep you growing. No matter where you are on your faith journey, Lori's conversational and engaging style will challenge you to think about things you've never thought about before.

“Real-life inspiration and candid wit. These 5-minute devotions will change your life.” —Psychologist and best-selling author Dr. Kevin Leman, commenting on Lori Hatcher's devotional style

Are you hungry for God, but starving for time? 
I’d love to send you a 5-minute e-mail devotion twice a week to start your day off with the Lord. 

Sign up for a free subscription to Hungry for God by CLICKING HERE.
Then, be sure to VALIDATE the confirmation email you receive. 

Note: I promise never to spam you or share your email address.

Because busy women need to connect with God in the craziness of everyday life.