The Hourngs in Cambodia!

It is always refreshing to end the week with a reminder from God’s Word that gently brings our hearts back to what truly matters. Life has a way of filling our minds with worries about finances, responsibilities, and the future. Yet in the middle of all these concerns, Scripture reminds us that our relationship with money is deeply connected to the condition of our hearts. Today’s devotion brings us to 2 Corinthians 9:7 , which says: “Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” This verse has been quietly shaping the way our family thinks about finances, generosity, and contentment over the years. It also reminds us that living below our means is not simply a financial strategy. It is a spiritual practice. It teaches us trust. It cultivates gratitude. And it opens our hands so that we can bless others. As I reflect on this today, I find myself thinking about our own journey as a family servin...

Faith and finances are inseparable in a life of stewardship. Martin Luther’s observation about the “three conversions”—mind, heart, and wallet—highlights this truth. Faith isn’t just about belief; it involves how we think, feel, and act, including how we manage our resources. Paul’s encouragement to the church in Corinth to be generous was not about meeting quotas or gaining blessings in return. Instead, he emphasized giving for the sake of others, marked by joy and rooted in the understanding of God’s generosity toward us. As Rich Villodas (Narrow Path) properly puts it, “We cannot outgive God.” Reflecting on His love compels us to give freely, trusting that He will meet our needs. As a pastor’s wife serving in Cambodia, this verse resonates deeply with the realities of our ministry, family, and faith community. It challenges us to reflect on the connection between our faith and finances, reminding us that generosity stems from a joyful heart rooted in God’s abundant love. 1. Living B...

Last Sunday my husband Vandy preached a message at our church to help us prepare our hearts for this season. It was a simple but powerful reminder of what it means to live our lives in a way that reflects Christ. He encouraged us to love people intentionally, even the ones who misunderstand us or dislike us. He reminded us to reach out to our family and friends who do not yet know Christ and invite them to join us in the joy of celebrating Jesus. And he reminded us that we must shine as lights in a world that is becoming darker and more confused every day. As he spoke, I found myself thinking about the meaning of this name that was given to Jesus. Immanuel. God with us. Not God far away. Not God watching from a distance. But God here. God near. God with us. Those three words feel even more important today because the world is not calm. Many are hurting. Many nations are facing conflict. Many families feel fear, worry, or uncertainty. Even here in Cambodia we feel it. Even when the ...

Our lives can be made more comfortable by material belongings, such as the newest phones, larger homes, or cars. It's simple to assume that possessing more will also increase our happiness. However, the reality is that nothing we may purchase will stay forever. There is a time limit on everything we gather on this planet. Houses collapse, cars break down, and new phones age rapidly. We truly have no control over the affairs of this world in the long term. When Jesus invites us to focus on storing treasures in heaven, where things do not fade or vanish, He is essentially inviting us to a different way of living. He calls us to concentrate on heavenly things that will endure forever rather than accumulating material possessions.  Everything we own was actually given to us by God's grace, we are just the managers of these.  ** The passage advises not to store treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy and thieves steal, but in heaven, where treasures are safe and secure. ...

“For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give His life as a ransom for many.” Matthew 20:28 There is something about the quiet moments of life that God often uses to speak the loudest. L iving out our calling in Cambodia , being gently reminded that mission work is not about us. It is about Him. It is about showing up daily, even in the ordinary, and choosing to serve. A Season of Movement and Opportunity In Cambodia, this time of the year feels very different from what many of us grew up with. While other parts of the world prepare for Passion Week , Cambodia prepares for Khmer New Year. It is one of the biggest holidays in the country. Families travel back to their provinces. The city slowly empties. Phnom Penh becomes quiet. Almost like a pause. Get Free Passion Week Devotionals 👈here! Khmer New Year & the Passion Week 👍💗 Khmer New Year with Family 👪 Shops close. Streets are less crowded. Many people leave to reunite with loved ones. It is ...

Mission Field as a single missionary (Teaching English in Kratie Province 2007) Whenever I encounter Hebrews 12:1, my heart goes back to papa Rolly . Not because it is a famous verse or something I memorized for the mission training, but because his life quietly lived this verse long before I understood it. When I read about running the race with perseverance, about witnesses who have gone before us, I see him clearly. I see his choices, his obedience, his steady faith, and his simple love for God and people. Papa retired early the moment I graduated from college. At a season when many would choose rest, comfort, or personal plans, he chose obedience. He decided to move with mama to her province and plant a small house church there. His heart was clear. He wanted mama’s relatives to know Christ. He wanted the gospel to reach our own family. It was not an easy decision. Leaving familiarity never is. Starting something new with no promise of comfort or success takes courage. But papa obe...