Have you ever seen a little kid cower in a corner? Their little shoulders are slumped, their head is hanging low, their eyes are avoiding yours, and maybe they’re even trying to hide their face behind their hands. Their little bodies seem to be saying what they don’t yet have the words to express: I’m embarrassed. I feel bad about myself. I don’t want you to see me right now.

At first, it might seem almost cute. But when you look a little deeper, you realize how sad it really is. There is something heartbreaking about watching a child shrink back in shame, as if their mistake has somehow changed who they are. They aren’t just acknowledging that they did something wrong; they’re beginning to believe that something is wrong with them. And if we aren’t careful, that’s exactly what shame does to us. It takes our mistakes, our failures, and our shortcomings and convinces us that they define who we are.

But shame goes much deeper than feeling embarrassed about something we’ve done. At its core, shame is the feeling that we are inherently flawed, unacceptable, and unworthy of love because of something we’ve done, something done to us, or something associated with us. Shame goes beyond regretting a mistake or recognizing that we’ve fallen short. It attacks our identity, convincing us that our failures define us and that we are somehow less deserving of love because of them.

One really important distinction for us to identify on this journey is the difference between guilt and shame. Guilt tells us we’ve done something wrong, but shame tells us that we are wrong.

Think of a smoke detector. When it goes off, it’s alerting you that something needs your attention. Maybe something is burning on the stove, and you need to take action to fix the problem. That’s how guilt can function in our lives. It brings our attention to something we’ve done wrong and prompts us to acknowledge our sin, repent, and make things right.

But shame takes that signal and turns it into something much bigger. Instead of recognizing that something needs to be addressed, we begin to believe that something is fundamentally wrong with us. We go from acknowledging that we’ve made a mistake to believing that we are the mistake. Guilt says there’s a problem that needs attention; shame convinces us that we are the problem. And when we believe that, we often retreat into hiding rather than allowing God to meet us in our brokenness.

The difference is that guilt points to something that needs to be addressed, while shame attacks our sense of worth.

1. Share Your Story

Shame wants us to believe that our stories are too messy, too embarrassing, or too broken to be shared. It convinces us that if people knew the truth about our struggles, they would reject us. So we keep our stories hidden, allowing shame to grow in the silence. But when we begin to share our experiences with someone we trust, we take away some of shame’s power. We begin to realize that we aren’t alone in our struggles and that our failures, wounds, or past experiences don’t make us unworthy of love. Sharing your story doesn’t mean you have to tell everyone everything. It means inviting safe, trustworthy people into the parts of your life you’ve been afraid to reveal. Sometimes, bringing our stories into the light is the first step toward healing.

2. Allow Your Head to Be Lifted

When we experience shame, our natural response is often to hang our heads, avoid eye contact, and withdraw from others. We carry ourselves as though we have something to hide. But throughout Scripture, we see a God who draws near to the brokenhearted and offers grace to those who come to Him. Psalm 3:3 describes God as the One who is our glory and the One who lifts our heads. We don’t have to remain bowed down by the weight of our shame. Through Jesus, we can acknowledge our sin, receive His forgiveness, and remember that our failures do not define us. Allowing God to lift our heads means choosing to receive the grace He offers rather than continuing to punish ourselves for what He has already forgiven. We can stand in the truth of who He says we are, not in the lies shame tells us about ourselves.

3. Join a Loving Community

Shame convinces us that we need to isolate ourselves, but isolation often gives shame more room to grow. We need people who will remind us of God’s truth when we struggle to believe it ourselves. A loving, Christ-centered community provides a place where we can be honest about our struggles without fear of being reduced to our mistakes. Galatians 6:2 calls us to carry one another’s burdens, reminding us that we were never meant to walk through life’s difficulties alone. Look for people who will offer both grace and truth—people who will love you through your struggles while encouraging you toward growth. You don’t need a community that pretends you never struggle; you need one that points you back to Jesus when you do.

Shame tells us to hide our stories, keep our heads down, and isolate ourselves from others. But God invites us to bring our struggles into the light, lift our eyes to Him, and walk alongside people who remind us of His truth. We don’t overcome shame by pretending we’ve never been broken. We begin to overcome it when we stop allowing our brokenness to define us and start living in the freedom of God’s grace.

Cover photo by Windah Limbai on Unsplash

© Copyright 2024. Unless otherwise noted, all Scripture quotations taken from The Holy Bible, New international Version® NIV® Copyright © 1973 1978 1984 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

Have you ever looked at someone else's life and wondered why God hasn't given you what He's given them? Maybe it's their marriage, their family, their appearance, their success, or even their relationship with the Lord. You can be genuinely happy for someone and still find yourself wishing your life looked a little more like theirs. Before you know it, comparison creeps in, gratitude fades, and you begin to wonder why your life doesn't measure up.

This is envy. A simple definition of envy is “wanting what belongs to someone else.”

The Bible identifies envy as a work of the flesh, a result of our sinful nature. In Galatians 5, Paul lists envy among the behaviors that are contrary to the life God calls us to live. Another word closely associated with envy in Scripture is covetousness. To covet is to have an excessive desire to possess something that belongs to someone else.

When envy goes unchecked, it can open the door to a whole host of other emotions, including bitterness, insecurity, anger, sadness, and resentment. The more we compare our lives to others, the easier it becomes to believe we aren't good enough or that our lives don't measure up. Over time, constant comparison can rob us of joy, create discontentment, and leave us feeling discouraged or even hopeless. For some, these patterns can contribute to depressive symptoms, particularly when they persist and begin to affect how we see ourselves, our circumstances, and our future.

The root of envy is a dissatisfied heart. We experience envy when we cannot have what our hearts desire and struggle to find contentment in what God has given us. We have not yet learned the secret of contentment (Philippians 4:10–13) or what it means to truly delight ourselves in the Lord. We see this struggle play out in Scripture through the life of Peter.

In John 21, Jesus revealed that Peter’s life would eventually end in a way that glorified God through his death (John 21:18–19). This was hard news for him and Peter looked at John, one of his closest friends, and asked Jesus, “What about this man?” (John 21:21). Rather than focusing on the calling Jesus had placed on his own life, Peter wanted to know what God had planned for someone else.

How often do we do the same thing? When our lives look difficult, we look around and wonder why someone else seems to have it easier. We begin to question whether God has given them a better life, greater blessings, or a more fulfilling purpose than He has given us. But Jesus’ response to Peter is a reminder for us all: “What is that to you? You follow Me” (John 21:22). God has not called us to compare our lives with someone else’s; He has called us to faithfully follow Him, trusting that His plan for our lives is good, even when it looks different from the plans He has for others.

“If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me.” — Luke 9:23–24

Fighting envy begins with surrender. Jesus calls us to deny ourselves, take up our cross daily, and follow Him. This means choosing to trust God's plan for our lives rather than constantly chasing what we see in someone else's. We cannot overcome envy in our own strength; we need the Holy Spirit to reveal the areas of our hearts where comparison, jealousy, and discontentment have taken root.

First Corinthians 13:4 states, “Love does not envy.” If we find ourselves envying our brothers and sisters in Christ, we must examine our hearts and ask whether we are loving them as God has called us to. The love of Christ is free from selfish ambition and pride (Philippians 2:3–8). Instead of resenting someone for what God has given them, we can choose to celebrate their blessings and genuinely desire their good. When we shift our focus from what we lack to how we can love others, we begin to fight envy with the very love Christ has shown us.

Finally, we must learn to take our thoughts captive (2 Corinthians 10:5). Envy often begins with thoughts like, Why don't I have that? Why does their life seem easier than mine? If we allow these thoughts to take root, they can grow into bitterness and resentment. Instead, we can challenge these thoughts with God's truth, practice gratitude for what He has already given us, and remember that His goodness toward someone else does not mean He has forgotten us. We can bring our desires honestly before God while trusting that He is still faithful and at work in our own lives.

Cover photo by Negar Nikkah on Unsplash

© Copyright 2024. Unless otherwise noted, all Scripture quotations taken from The Holy Bible, New international Version® NIV® Copyright © 1973 1978 1984 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

Did you know that 50 percent of people who seek counseling struggle with managing their anger? When left unchecked, anger can create tension within ourselves and damage the relationships around us. It can affect the way we communicate, influence the decisions we make, and cause us to say or do things we later regret. If we aren't careful, anger can take root in our hearts and begin to shape the way we see and treat the people around us.

The truth is, anger is something we all experience, but how we respond to it matters. Thankfully, God hasn’t left us to figure it out on our own. His Word gives us the wisdom and tools we need to learn how to handle our anger and love others well.

First, we need to understand what anger is not: anger itself is not a sin. There are things that should stir something within us, especially when we see injustice or things that break God’s heart. This is a biblical response, and even Jesus Himself experienced anger. But Ephesians 4:26 reminds us, “Be angry and do not sin…” (ESV). Anger can become sinful when it is motivated by pride, allowed to linger in our hearts, or expressed in ways that are unproductive and do not honor God.

And this is where things get difficult. Pride can keep us from examining our own hearts and taking responsibility for our anger. Instead, we often try to justify it by focusing on what someone else did to make us angry rather than examining how we are choosing to respond. When we allow anger to linger, it can turn into bitterness and resentment, slowly hardening our hearts and damaging our relationships with others and with God.
But if we want to handle anger in a way that honors God, we have to be willing to take an honest look at our own hearts. God wants to help us be victorious, and He wants to lay our sin at the cross and ask Him to help us.

We can handle anger biblically by recognizing and admitting our prideful anger and/or our wrong handling of anger as sin. It says in Proverbs, “Whoever conceals their sins does not prosper, but the one who confesses and renounces them finds mercy.” (Proverbs 28:13).

Four Things to Do If You Are Struggling with Anger:

1. Confession

Sit with the Lord and confess your sins to Him. He wants to hear from you, even when what you have to say is difficult. You don't need to hide your anger or feel too ashamed to come before Him. God already knows your heart, and His grace is greater than all of your sin. Be honest with Him about where you have fallen short, ask for His forgiveness, and allow Him to begin working in your heart.

2. Examine Yourself

Take an honest look at your heart and ask yourself what is fueling your anger. Is it being driven by pride, fear, or unmet expectations? Are you angry because things aren't going the way you wanted, or because you feel like someone has wronged you? Sometimes, our anger reveals something deeper that we haven't taken the time to address. Instead of focusing solely on what someone else has done, ask God to reveal what is happening within you and where you need to grow.

3. Read God’s Word

James 1:19–20 reminds us to be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry because human anger does not produce the righteousness God desires. When anger rises, our first instinct is often to react, defend ourselves, or make sure our voices are heard. But God's Word calls us to a different response. Before you speak or act out of anger, pause and allow Scripture to remind you of what is true. Let God's wisdom guide your response rather than allowing your emotions to take control.

4. Pray and Commune with God

Spend time in prayer and invite God into the areas where you struggle with anger. Ask Him to help you recognize when your anger is rising and to give you the self-control to respond with gentleness rather than reacting out of frustration. Ask Him to show you what your next steps should be, whether that means having a difficult conversation, extending forgiveness, establishing a healthy boundary, or simply taking time to calm down before responding. Remember, you don't have to overcome anger in your own strength. As you continue to commune with God, He can transform your heart and teach you to respond in ways that reflect His character.

Cover photo by Michelle Spollen on Unsplash

© Copyright 2024. Unless otherwise noted, all Scripture quotations taken from The Holy Bible, New international Version® NIV® Copyright © 1973 1978 1984 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

The biggest mind game the enemy plays on us is the game of “what if.” It all starts with a seed of doubt. What if this doesn’t work out? What if things never get better? What if I’m not good enough? What if God forgot about me? What if God doesn’t come through?

Thought by thought, these questions build into a mountain of fear that seems impossible to overcome. Anxiety can become a monster in our lives, a tormenting weight we lug around as it whispers lies about who we are and what we can expect from the future. It can even convince us that we’re bad Christians because we struggle with worry, as if experiencing anxiety means we aren’t trusting God enough.

Anxiety, like other mental health conditions, can look very different from person to person. For some, it’s a constant internal battle with racing thoughts. For others, it’s nighttime anxiety that leaves them rocking on the bathroom floor. And for others, it may show up through compulsive behaviors, such as those associated with OCD.

At its core, anxiety can make it so easy to get caught in a trap of intrusive thoughts. Naturally, it can feel incredibly isolating. The lies build up until you feel like no one could possibly relate to your specific situation. For me, it often feels like drowning. I’m caught in an ocean of raging water, with waves crashing over me while I struggle to keep my head above water.

This reminds me of Peter in Matthew 14. The disciples were in a boat, far from shore, when Jesus came walking toward them on the water. Frightened by what they saw, they thought He was a ghost and cried out in fear.

But Peter was the first to respond with a bold request: “Lord, if it’s you, tell me to come to you on the water.”
 
“Come,” Jesus said.
 
Peter climbed out of the boat, walked on the water, and came toward Jesus. But when he saw the wind, he became afraid. Beginning to sink, he cried out, “Lord, save me!”
 
Immediately, Jesus reached out His hand and caught him. “You of little faith,” He said, “why did you doubt?”

But the truth from this story in light of anxiety is this: If the enemy can get us to take our eyes away from God for a single moment and toward our fears, we can easily drown.

The enemy can make our problems look bigger than God. Maybe today, you're caught in your own storm of "what ifs." Maybe your mind won't slow down, your fears feel bigger than your faith, and you're exhausted from trying to keep your head above water.
You don't have to be ashamed of that.

Peter began to sink, but Jesus didn't abandon him. And when Peter cried out for help, Jesus reached for him.

You may not know what tomorrow holds. You may not have answers to all the questions racing through your mind. But you can bring those fears to Jesus. You can ask for help. You can take the next step without having the whole path figured out.

When you start to spiral with fear and the “what ifs” of tomorrow, Jesus will be right there. As you keep your eyes fixed on God, you can begin to experience the peace that comes from knowing He is with you, even in the middle of the storm.

Cover photo by Christopher Ott on Unsplash

© Copyright 2024. Unless otherwise noted, all Scripture quotations taken from The Holy Bible, New international Version® NIV® Copyright © 1973 1978 1984 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

Humans love to label things. We have labeled our days of the week, the seasons of the year, the different generations, and just about every trend that comes and goes. We like to put things into categories because it helps us make sense of the world around us.
But what happens when we can't quite put a label on what we're experiencing? What happens when life feels heavier than usual, but we can't explain why? Sometimes, the hardest things to name are the very things we need the most help navigating.

Depression is a hard thing to label and put a name to because it doesn’t always look like sadness. Sometimes, it looks like exhaustion, irritability, numbness, disconnection, or simply feeling like you're not yourself.

Depression can take many forms. Some people experience depression after a life change, others after a traumatic event, and some experience a low hum of depression throughout their lives.

For some, labeling depression is hard. If it’s not clinical depression or a debilitating season where even taking a shower feels impossible, many won't label it as such. Everyone will have their own experience with seasons of sadness or despair, whether it's a temporary season or something they navigate throughout their lifetime.

Simply put, depression is a lack of joy present in our lives.

Joy is the deep-rooted contentment that comes from trusting in God, finding confidence in the good news of Jesus Christ, and resting in the presence of the Holy Spirit. Joy, coming as a gift from Jesus, is inner strength that produces outer resilience. Seasons of depression can make it difficult to experience this kind of joy, leaving us feeling disconnected from the very things that once brought us peace and contentment.

Hear these words from James: "Consider it all joy, my brothers and sisters, when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have its perfect result, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.” (James 1:2-4 NASB).

Consider it joy. Why does James say that?

James isn't telling us to pretend our struggles don't hurt or to be happy when life feels heavy. He's reminding us that even in our hardest seasons, God is still at work. The trials we face can strengthen our faith and produce endurance, even when we can't see it happening. Joy doesn't mean we enjoy the struggle; it means we can trust that God is still present in the middle of it.

Sometimes, we want to experience joy, but we just don't. That doesn't mean we're failing God or that our faith isn't strong enough. Joy isn't pretending everything is okay. It's trusting that God is still good, still present, and still working, even when everything doesn't feel okay.

We must also remember the hope we have in what is to come: eternity with Jesus. In Revelation 21, we're reminded that one day, there will be no more tears, pain, or death. There will only be the fullness of life in the presence of our Heavenly Father. What a beautiful promise to hold onto when life feels heavy. Our struggles here on earth are not the end of our story.

President Theodore Roosevelt once said, “Comparison is the thief of joy.” It's so easy to look at the lives of others and wonder why our own lives don't look the same. We compare our circumstances, our happiness, and even our faith, and in doing so, we can lose sight of what God is doing right in front of us.

Instead of comparing our lives to someone else's, let's focus on praising God in the life He's given us. We have a limited time here on earth, and what a beautiful privilege it is to worship Him not only when life is good, but also when it's hard. Joy isn't found in having a life that looks better than someone else's. It's found in knowing the God who walks with us through every season of our lives.

Maybe you’re reading this and thinking to yourself, “I’ve already hit my limit. I can’t do it anymore. There is no hope or joy for me.” Friend, read this slowly:

You are loved.

You are cherished.

There is hope.

Scary thoughts can enter so easily and turn dark very quickly. Please, if this is you, I’m so sorry things feel this way, but you do not have to face them alone. If thoughts of self-harm or even suicide are something you are experiencing, please reach out to someone. God is close to you.

If you don’t have someone you feel safe reaching out to, your church family is a good place to start. You can call the church office during office hours to speak to a pastor, or you can fill out a prayer request. For immediate help, call or text 988.

Even in the hardest seasons of life, joy is still something we can experience. Scripture reminds us that joy is a gift from God (Galatians 5:22). Joy is not defined by our circumstances. The enemy may try to convince us that our struggles have the final say, but our joy is rooted in something far greater than what we feel or face.

**If you or someone you know is struggling with depression or experiencing several of the symptoms listed below, please seek support from a qualified mental health professional. You do not have to navigate these struggles alone, and reaching out for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. There is hope, and support is available.

If you or someone you know is experiencing thoughts of suicide or self-harm, seek immediate support. In the United States, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

Cover photo by Sasha Freemind on Unsplash

© Copyright 2024. Unless otherwise noted, all Scripture quotations taken from The Holy Bible, New international Version® NIV® Copyright © 1973 1978 1984 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

When I was asked to write this post of five verses about hope, I immediately thought “easy”. I was soon proven to be wrong. Not because Scripture is void of hope or hope-filled verses. The problem was just the opposite: the entirety of the Bible is hope. Hope for every person in every season of life, every day. So, here are five verses about hope that aren’t the obvious Jeremiah 29:11-type verses (not that there’s anything wrong with that!).

My prayer is that God fills you with hope as you read these verses and my little synopsis of each one.

“But the Lord God called to the man, ‘Where are you?’”
Genesis 3:9

I love this verse. When God says this, Adam and Eve had just been deceived by Satan, eaten the fruit of the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil, and sin had entered the world. God knew all of this, and He knew exactly where Adam and Eve were. They were hiding from Him. And the first thing He says to them is, “Where are you?” What a hope-filled picture of who God is. Adam and Eve clearly expected to be reprimanded and punished for what they had done. There were, of course, consequences, but we see God ask a question He already knew the answer to, showing them that He would always want them, chase after them, and love them. And more than that, God would redeem their mistakes. He already had a plan to do just that because He is love. Have hope because God is love.

“For the Lord God is a sun and shield; the Lord bestows favor and honor; no good thing does he withhold from those whose walk is blameless.”
Psalm 84:11

Do you ever find yourself unsatisfied with what you have? God gives you great blessings and yet, it’s never enough. That’s because we’re human, we’ll always want more, and sometimes the things we want seem like they’ll never come. Sometimes we feel like God is withholding good things from us. Every time I read this verse, I’m reminded of who God is. God is all-knowing, all-powerful AND He loves you and wants what’s best for you. He withholds no good thing from those whose walk is blameless. That brings me so much hope. So, if you feel like God just won’t give you that blessing, check how you’re living, and adjust accordingly. Sanctification in and of itself is hopeful. But if you are living in a pure way, find hope in knowing that if God hasn’t brought that desire of your heart into your life, it’s because it’s not good for you right now. And remember that God himself is good, and He does not withhold Himself from us. Have hope because God is good.

Discipline often feels like a negative thing, but it’s really a positive one. Discipline saves us from getting hurt and hurting others, from making bad decisions, and it teaches us that life isn’t all about what we want when we want it. Discipline is good, but as imperfect people, we can distort the purpose of discipline and use it for manipulation or cause unnecessary pain. God never does that. God only disciplines out of love. If you’re being disciplined by the Lord, it’s because He sees you as His child. That should bring you hope, because God disciplines us to protect us and to teach us. And He disciplines with gentleness and kindness. He convicts us and makes us feel more and more uncomfortable with sin the longer we walk with Him because it’s what’s best for us. Have hope because God is our Father.

“He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay.”
Matthew 28:6

This is a verse that you probably see on Instagram or Facebook 100 times on Easter. There’s good reason for that. The resurrection is the pinnacle moment that defines Christianity and everyone who professes faith in Jesus. That is the ultimate hope. But I want to focus on four little words in this verse that don’t get as much attention - “just as he said”. God is trustworthy. This should fill us with hope. God always has and always will do what He said He would. This is a bit hard for us fickle humans to wrap our brains around because we so often don’t do what we say we’re going to do. May I remind you that God is perfect. He will never promise something and not deliver. Have hope because God is trustworthy.

“‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’ or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.’ He who was seated on the throne said, ‘I am making everything new!’ Then he said, ‘Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.’”
Revelation 21:4-5

Technically, I’m cheating here because this is two verses, but these verses are what I, as someone who has believed in Jesus for many years, think of when I hear the word “hope”. This world can be hard. There is death and mourning and crying and pain every day, but Jesus is going to come back and redeem it all someday. He will right every wrong and usher in the perfection of eternity, and we will live with God as He originally intended. It’s what every soul longs for, and it’s what every person can have, if only they put their trust in Jesus. Praise be to God. Have hope because God is the redeemer.

Cover photo by Mark Oliver Jodoin on Unsplash

© Copyright 2024. Unless otherwise noted, all Scripture quotations taken from The Holy Bible, New international Version® NIV® Copyright © 1973 1978 1984 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

We all have those days. Days that start off really good. You wake up on time, get a cup of coffee that tastes right, and you are looking towards a beautiful day. Then something happens.

Maybe it's a harsh comment from a coworker. A difficult email. A crying toddler. Traffic. An unexpected bill. A conversation that didn't go the way you hoped. Or maybe it's something so small that it shouldn't bother you—but somehow it does.

And something inside of you snaps.

I picture it like a glow stick. The ones you have to crack and the moment you bend it, the light races from one end to the other in just seconds.

Our emotions can work the same way.

One frustrating moment can spread through the rest of our day. What began as a minor inconvenience suddenly colors every conversation, every thought, and every interaction. Before we know it, we're impatient, bitter, anxious, discouraged, or angry.

The enemy loves moments like these. He doesn't always need a major crisis to distract us from God. Sometimes all it takes is one small irritation to shift our eyes away from Jesus and onto ourselves. One moment becomes one bad hour, which becomes one bad day.
What if we interrupted this pattern?

It sounds almost too simple. And if we're honest, it's much easier to write than it is to live. Yet this is exactly the kind of life God invites us into.

Romans 12:2 reminds us:
"Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind..."

The world's pattern says to hold onto your anger, defend yourself, get even, or let your emotions dictate your day. Jesus invites us to something entirely different. He invites us to lift our eyes.

That's why I love Psalm 121. It doesn't begin by pretending life is easy. It begins with a question:
"I lift up my eyes to the mountains—
where does my help come from?"

Whether you have found yourself audibly asking yourself this question or not, it is one that our hearts utter over and over. Where do I turn when I'm overwhelmed? Where do I go when anxiety creeps in? Who can I trust in when I’m scared?

The psalmist answers immediately:
"My help comes from the Lord,
the Maker of heaven and earth."

Our help comes from the God who created heaven and earth. While everything around us feels unstable, He remains completely faithful. When we choose to lift our eyes to Him, our circumstances may not immediately change—but our perspective does.

That means the pain might stay, or the irritation may persist, but we no longer have to deal with it alone.

The truth is this: Our hearts were never designed to find lasting peace in better circumstances. They were designed to find peace in Christ.

No amount of success, comfort, entertainment, money, or achievement can satisfy the deepest longing of our souls. Only Jesus can.

So the next time something threatens to crack your day in half, pause before letting that frustration spread.

Lift your eyes.

Ask yourself the same question the psalmist asked:
Where does my help come from?

Then remember the answer.
My help comes from the Lord.

Cover photo by Jerry Zhang on Unsplash

© Copyright 2024. Unless otherwise noted, all Scripture quotations taken from The Holy Bible, New international Version® NIV® Copyright © 1973 1978 1984 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

Have you ever sat down to pray and found it nearly impossible to stay still? Maybe your thoughts jump from one topic to another, or every small noise and notification feels like a distraction pulling you away. What you intended to be a quiet, focused moment with God quickly turns into a battle to keep your mind present.

The truth is, our brains are constantly shifting, and in today’s world we take in far more information and stimulation than ever before. This can make it difficult to slow down, be still, and fully engage in prayer. If you find yourself struggling to stay focused when you pray, you’re not alone—and there is hope. Here are five practical tips to help you stay present and engaged in prayer.

Pray for Help to Stay Focused.
Praying for help to stay focused can be a powerful first step. Simply asking the Lord for help is an act of humility and trust. When you acknowledge that you cannot do this on your own, you create space for God to meet you there.When we invite Him into our weakness, He is faithful to help us, for His power is made perfect in weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9). Rather than striving to force focus, begin by surrendering the moment to Him, trusting that He will steady your heart and guide your attention as you pray.

Remove Distractions.
Sometimes the greatest distractions are not dramatic or obvious but the very things sitting right in front of us, quietly pulling our eyes, our minds, and our hearts away. As you enter into prayer, consider creating space by silencing or setting aside your phone and moving to a quiet room if possible. Let there be nothing before you except a blank notebook and a pen—simple tools that invite stillness rather than competition for your attention. Do what you can to remove anything that might divide your focus, not as a rigid rule but as a gentle act of intention. And yet, be gracious with yourself as you evaluate distractions. If you are a parent, you know that removing your children from the room is neither realistic nor always desirable. In those moments, do the best you can, remembering that God meets us in imperfect circumstances. You might even invite your children into the rhythm of prayer in age-appropriate ways, allowing them to witness and participate in your dependence on God. Prayer does not require ideal conditions—only a willing heart that is learning, again and again, to turn toward Him (Romans 12:1).

Pray Out Loud.
Praying out loud can be a helpful way to stay engaged and intentional in your prayer time. When you verbalize your prayers, you are more aware of what you are communicating and less likely to drift in thought. Scripture tells us that faith is expressed through spoken words (Romans 10:10), and throughout the Psalms we see prayers voiced aloud to God (Psalm 142:1). Speaking your prayers can slow you down, helping you choose your words carefully and remain present with the Lord. It also turns prayer into an active dialogue rather than a passive exercise, allowing your heart and mind to stay aligned as you speak honestly and openly before God.

Write Your Prayers.
This can take many forms. It might be an ongoing list you return to and add to as needs arise, giving you a place to draw from when you sit down to pray. Having something written can help anchor your focus when your mind feels scattered. Scripture often speaks of remembering and recording what God has done (Habakkuk 2:2; Deuteronomy 6:12).

Or it may look like a prayer journal—less of a checklist and more of a written conversation with Christ. Writing your prayers can help you slow down, concentrate your thoughts, and be more honest, eliminating the “fluff” we sometimes add when we’re unsure what to say. Over time, it also creates space to look back and see how God has been faithful, answering prayers in ways you may not have noticed in the moment.

Give Yourself Grace When You Get Distracted.
As mentioned before, begin by giving yourself grace as you consider your unique circumstances and needs. What works beautifully for someone else’s prayer life may not work for you—and that is not a failure. Even if you are practicing all the right things, even the ones suggested here, your mind may still wander. When that happens, it does not necessarily mean something is wrong. In fact, the very thoughts that keep surfacing—your children, your responsibilities, your worries, your plans—may be gentle invitations to bring those things before God. Rather than fighting the wandering, allow it to guide your prayer. Pray through the distractions instead of being discouraged by them. Remember, you are speaking to the God of the universe—the One who can handle all things and already knows all things. So, take a deep breath, release the pressure to “get it right,” and open your heart fully to Him.

Cover photo by People Brands on Unsplash

© Copyright 2024. Unless otherwise noted, all Scripture quotations taken from The Holy Bible, New international Version® NIV® Copyright © 1973 1978 1984 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

As believers in Christ, our ultimate goal is to continually become more like Jesus. We pursue this by studying who He is and by practicing the rhythms He modeled in His life. Scripture reading, Sabbath, and service are all essential practices we can intentionally implement. But if we truly want to learn how to live, love, and lead like Jesus, we must recognize that prayer is not optional—it is foundational.

Prayer is often reduced to a simple definition, such as making requests to God. While prayer certainly includes asking, it is so much more than that. Prayer is Spirit-filled communication with the Creator of all things. It is a direct, personal address to God—an invitation into relationship, not merely a religious activity.

Prayer is where our relationship with God is deepened, our hearts are shaped, and our dependence on Him is reinforced. It is in prayer that we align our will with the Father’s, receive guidance, and draw strength for daily obedience. Without prayer, spiritual practices can become routine or hollow; with prayer, they become life-giving expressions of intimacy with God.

And when we find ourselves unsure of what to pray, at a loss for words, or uncertain of how to approach God, we are not left without guidance. Jesus Himself gave us a model for prayer—one that reveals both the heart of the Father and the posture we are invited to take before Him.

In Matthew 6:9–13, Jesus says:
“This, then, is how you should pray:
‘Our Father in heaven,
hallowed be your name,
your kingdom come,
your will be done,
on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us today our daily bread.
And forgive us our debts,
as we also have forgiven our debtors.
And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from the evil one.’”

Jesus gives us the ultimate example of what a true relationship with the Father looks like. Yet on this side of heaven, that relationship can feel muddy and messy at times. Prayer is not about perfection, but persistence—continually coming before God with honest hearts. With that in mind, here are a few important reminders about prayer:

1.  Prayer helps us align our hopes and dreams with God’s “big plans.”
Through prayer, God is constantly shaping our hearts to desire His will over our own. As we bring our plans before Him, He gently refines and redirects them according to His purposes. Rather than asking God to bless our agendas, prayer teaches us to seek His—trusting that His ways are higher than ours (Proverbs 19:21; Matthew 6:10).

2. Prayer reminds us of our true identity in Christ and emphasizes our dependence on God.
Jesus understood what sustained Him. When the weight of suffering pressed in, He withdrew to pray, abiding in close communion with the Father. Through prayer, His relationship with the Father became the steady flow of life, strength, and provision that carried Him forward.

3. Prayer does not change God, but it changes the person who prays.
Prayer emphasizes our dependence on God and highlights the importance of faith in Him. As we place our trust in God, our faith pleases Him (Hebrews 11:6). Through prayer, that faith is strengthened, deepened, and formed within us.

4. Prayer is not just reserved for personal devotion or individual needs; it is also a powerful force in building and expanding the church.
The early church made prayer a priority, and their fruitfulness was a direct result of how they ordered their lives. Prayer was not secondary or occasional—it was central, shaping their unity, their power, and their witness to the world (Acts 1:14; Acts 2:42; Acts 6:2).

If we truly want to learn how to live, love, and lead like Jesus, we must learn that prayer is a key principle of the Christian life. And if you ever feel lost, unheard, or uncertain in prayer, take hope in this promise from James 5:16: “The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working.”

Cover photo by Jon Tyson on Unsplash

© Copyright 2024. Unless otherwise noted, all Scripture quotations taken from The Holy Bible, New international Version® NIV® Copyright © 1973 1978 1984 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

In this blog post, we take a meaningful look at the parable of the rich fool in Luke 12—one of Scripture’s most sobering teachings on wealth, contentment, and eternal perspective. Inside, you’ll find helpful background on the book of Luke, several translations of the passage, and insights drawn from trusted commentaries. And when you’re ready to reflect personally, we’ve included a simple, guided format to help you slow down, engage the text, and allow God to speak to you through His Word.

Author: Though it does not identify its author, many scholars believe that Luke, the travel companion and co-worker with the Apostle Paul, is the author of the Gospel of Luke and the Book of Acts.
Time: Between 60 and 80 CE
Purpose of Writing: To show how the story of Jesus fulfills the story of God and Israel and the whole world.

The Bible was first written in Greek, Hebrew, and Aramaic, and every version we read today comes from those original languages. Comparing different translations of the same text can be very beneficial in understanding different details.

NIV
13 Someone in the crowd said to him, “Teacher, tell my brother to divide the inheritance with me.”
 
14 Jesus replied, “Man, who appointed me a judge or an arbiter between you?” 15 Then he said to them, “Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions.”
 
16 And he told them this parable: “The ground of a certain rich man yielded an abundant harvest. 17 He thought to himself, ‘What shall I do? I have no place to store my crops.’
 
18 “Then he said, ‘This is what I’ll do. I will tear down my barns and build bigger ones, and there I will store my surplus grain. 19 And I’ll say to myself, “You have plenty of grain laid up for many years. Take life easy; eat, drink and be merry.”’
 
20 “But God said to him, ‘You fool! This very night your life will be demanded from you. Then who will get what you have prepared for yourself?’
 
21 “This is how it will be with whoever stores up things for themselves but is not rich toward God.”

ESV
13 Someone in the crowd said to him, “Teacher, tell my brother to divide the inheritance with me.” 14 But he said to him, “Man, who made me a judge or arbitrator over you?” 15 And he said to them, “Take care, and be on your guard against all covetousness, for one's life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions.” 16 And he told them a parable, saying, “The land of a rich man produced plentifully, 17 and he thought to himself, ‘What shall I do, for I have nowhere to store my crops?’ 18 And he said, ‘I will do this: I will tear down my barns and build larger ones, and there I will store all my grain and my goods. 19 And I will say to my soul, “Soul, you have ample goods laid up for many years; relax, eat, drink, be merry.”’ 20 But God said to him, ‘Fool! This night your soul is required of you, and the things you have prepared, whose will they be?’ 21 So is the one who lays up treasure for himself and is not rich toward God.”

NLT
13 Then someone called from the crowd, “Teacher, please tell my brother to divide our father’s estate with me.”
 
14 Jesus replied, “Friend, who made me a judge over you to decide such things as that?” 15 Then he said, “Beware! Guard against every kind of greed. Life is not measured by how much you own.”
 
16 Then he told them a story: “A rich man had a fertile farm that produced fine crops. 17 He said to himself, ‘What should I do? I don’t have room for all my crops.’ 18 Then he said, ‘I know! I’ll tear down my barns and build bigger ones. Then I’ll have room enough to store all my wheat and other goods. 19 And I’ll sit back and say to myself, “My friend, you have enough stored away for years to come. Now take it easy! Eat, drink, and be merry!”’
 
20 “But God said to him, ‘You fool! You will die this very night. Then who will get everything you worked for?’
 
21 “Yes, a person is a fool to store up earthly wealth but not have a rich relationship with God.”

David Guzik
v.13 -  According to the law of the day, the elder brother received two-thirds of the inheritance and the younger brother received one-third. So we see the man come to Jesus already with a decided mindset, not an open one.

• … he asked Jesus to take sides with him against his brother.
• Obviously, Jesus’ previous words about the need for full commitment and God’s care for us didn’t penetrate this man’s heart. He felt he needed to fight for what was his.

v. 14 - Jesus wasn’t concerned with justice but knew that this man’s covetousness would do more harm than good.

• Jesus did not feel it was His responsibility to judge every matter and solve every problem. There were some disputes that He refused to become entangled in.
• He uses this man’s request as a lesson for the crowd.
• V. 15 We all are under attack from covetousness, and we must protect ourselves from it.

V.16 - The man in Jesus’ parable was blessed with fertile ground; we can assume that by adding hard work to the fertile ground, he was a financial success. He was so successful that he had trouble managing his resources.

V.18 – “I will do this”

• With a wealth of resources, the man in the parable had his life confidently planned. He would build to better manage his wealth, and then enjoy life to the fullest.

V.20 - In one night, all the man’s accomplishments and plans were ruined. He made business plans and life plans, but could not control the day of his death — and all his accomplishments and plans were instantly nothing.

• This man owed his life, his livelihood, and his wealth to God; but most of all he owed his soul to God, and it would be required of him.
• Eternity proved the man a fool, and his story showed that it isn’t only sin to give material things too high a place in your life — it is also stupid.

V.21 - he rich man in the parable thought it was all for him. He said, my crops, my barns, my goods, my soul. Everything was about him, and nothing was about God. It was proved in the end that nothing was his — even his own soul was subject to God. He didn’t have any crops, any barns, any goods, and his soul was dead.

• We may become rich toward God by sacrificial giving to those in need. Also, by trusting in Jesus for every necessary thing.
• Paul wrote: But those who desire to be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and harmful lusts which drown men in destruction and perdition. (1 Timothy 6:9) Most of us are afraid of poverty; we should be afraid of wealth.

Read through the parable on your own. Use this guide to dig deeper into this scripture:

Be Still: As you read, write out the Bible verse or verses that stick out to you most.

Abide: What truth can you learn? Are there any principles or commands present? What is the overall theme of the text?

Adore: What does the text reveal about God and His character?

Apply: How does this Scripture apply to your life today? How does the truth of God’s Word change your daily perspective? How can you live differently in light of this truth?

Pray: Pray God’s Word back to Him. Turn these thoughts into prayer. Ask the Lord to show you how to meditate on and apply this Scripture to your life.

Cover photo by Annie Spratt on Unsplash

© Copyright 2024. Unless otherwise noted, all Scripture quotations taken from The Holy Bible, New international Version® NIV® Copyright © 1973 1978 1984 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

All Commentaries and Notes pulled from Blue Letter Bible.

In this blog post, we take a thoughtful look at the parable of the persistent widow in Luke 18—one of Scripture’s most compelling teachings on perseverance in prayer and trusting God’s justice. Inside, you’ll find helpful background on the book of Luke, several translations of the passage, and insights drawn from trusted commentaries. And when you’re ready to reflect personally, we’ve included a simple, guided format to help you slow down, engage the text, and allow God to speak to you through His Word.

Author: Though it does not identify its author, many scholars believe that Luke, the travel companion and co-worker with the Apostle Paul, is the author of the Gospel of Luke and the Book of Acts.
Time: Between 60 and 80 CE
Purpose of Writing: To show how the story of Jesus fulfills the story of God and Israel and the whole world.

The Bible was first written in Greek, Hebrew, and Aramaic, and every version we read today comes from those original languages. Comparing different translations of the same text can be very beneficial in understanding different details.

David Guzik
V1 – The purpose of the parable: that we might not lose heart in prayer

• Why we lose heart:
  • Prayer is hard work we often approach lightly
  • The Devil hates prayer. If prayer were powerless, it would be easy.
  • We are not always convinced of the reality of the power of prayer. It often is a last resort instead of a first resource.
• We must remember that Jesus lived a prayerful life, and He ever lives to pray for His people (Hebrews 7:25).

V2 – The ungodly judge

• He did not fear God or regard man.
• This judge would have not been a Jewish judge, for disputes were brought to the elders. So this judge would have been a paid magistrate appointed either by Herod or the Romans.

V4 – In the end the judge answered the woman’s request. The only reason he gave her what she wanted was because the woman wouldn’t stop bothering him.

• Jesus did not give us this parable to say that God is like this judge, but is unlike this judge.
• God loves to answer our prayers and even helps is when we pray.
• The woman had to overcome the judge’s reluctance to help. We often feel that we must do the same when we pray — use our persistence to overcome God’s reluctance. This misses the point of the parable entirely. Jesus did not say that men always ought to pray and not lose heart because God is reluctant, but because He isn’t, and that is our encouragement to prayer.
• There are several contrasts between this judge and the God who hears prayer.
  • The judge was unfair; God is fair.
  • The judge had no person interest in the widow; God loves and cares for those who petition Him.
  • The judge answered the widow’s cry out of pure self-interest; God loves to bless His people for their good also.

Chuck Smith
“Jesus often taught in parallels with sharp contrasts, and this is one of the those parables not of parallelism, but of sharp contrast. For surely He would not put God in the light of an unconcerned, unjust, judge, unfeeling. … The contrast is this: if a wicked man, hard, who neither regards neither God nor man, if he can be persuaded just because of the persistency of this little widow, in sharp contrast … (Luke 18:7-8).”

Read through the parable on your own. Use this guide to dig deeper into this scripture:

Be Still: As you read, write out the Bible verse or verses that stick out to you most.

Abide: What truth can you learn? Are there any principles or commands present? What is the overall theme of the text?

Adore: What does the text reveal about God and His character?

Apply: How does this Scripture apply to your life today? How does the truth of God’s Word change your daily perspective? How can you live differently in light of this truth?

Pray: Pray God’s Word back to Him. Turn these thoughts into prayer. Ask the Lord to show you how to meditate on and apply this Scripture to your life.

Cover photo by Jon Tyson on Unsplash

© Copyright 2024. Unless otherwise noted, all Scripture quotations taken from The Holy Bible, New international Version® NIV® Copyright © 1973 1978 1984 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

All Commentaries and Notes pulled from Blue Letter Bible.

In this blog post, we take a meaningful look at the parable of the lost sheep in Luke 15—one of Scripture’s most beautiful reminders of God’s heart for every single person. Inside, you’ll find helpful background on the book of Luke, several translations of the passage, and insights gathered from trusted commentaries. And when you’re ready to reflect personally, we’ve included a simple, guided format to help you slow down, engage the text, and let God speak to you through His Word.

Author: Though it does not identify its author, many scholars believe that Luke, the travel companion and co-worker with the Apostle Paul, is the author of the Gospel of Luke and the Book of Acts.                            
Time: Between 60 and 80 CE
Purpose of Writing: To show how the story of Jesus fulfills the story of God and Israel and the whole world.                                        

The Bible was first written in Greek, Hebrew, and Aramaic, and every version we read today comes from those original languages. Comparing different translations of the same text can be very beneficial in understanding different details. 

V1 – His strong challenge did not drive people away; it attracted them to Jesus.

V3 – The religious leaders and scribes complained about how Jesus met with sinners and tax collectors (v1).

• The religious leaders of Jesus’ day divided humanity into two classes: the unclean and the righteous. They decided to live, as much as possible, in complete separation from the unclean. Some rabbis of Jesus day took this idea so seriously that they refused to teach the unclean God’s word (Morris).

V4 – the flock (100) and the lost sheep (1)

• A flock of 100 sheep would have been considered medium size flock. An average herd ran from 20 to 200, while a large flock would have had more than 300 in numbers.
• “No creature strays more easily than a sheep …” (Clarke)
• The lost sheep would never save himself, or find the shepherd himself. If the shepherd did not take action, the sheep was doomed.
• Many rabbis of that time believed that God received the sinner who came to Him the right way.
• Jesus taught that God actively seeks out the lost. He searches after them.
• God finds the sinner more than the sinner does find God.

V5 – When Jesus finds His people, He also carries them.

• Romans 5:6 You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly.

V6 – The emphasis in this parable is on the joy of finding the lost.

• This was the error of the Pharisees and scribes who complained. They were not joyful when tax collectors and sinners drew near to Jesus.

Tax collectors: the outcast of that society, one of the most hated persons in the community. They were considered by the Jews to be traitors who collaborates with the enemy (quisling). – think of Matthew

• The tax collectors were attracted to Jesus as were the sinners, because He had a message of hope for them.

The Pharisees and the scribes gathered to find fault. They were looking for things by which they might accuse Jesus. (v2: they thought by saying he did these things that they were condemning Him, but they were actually proclaiming a glorious gospel.) They can’t just simply rejoice, but instead have sour apple comment or remark about sinners coming to Jesus.

The Approachableness of Jesus:
“The most depraved and despised classes of society formed an inner ring of hearers around our Lord. I gather from this that he was a most approachable person, that he was not of repulsive manners, but that he courted human confidence and was willing that men should commune with him.”

“… he was never more at home than when speaking to the common people, and teaching them concerning the kingdom of God.”

Our Great Shepherd Finding the Sheep:
“When He came after you and after me, we ran from Him but He pursued us—we hid from Him but He discovered us—He had almost grasped us but so long as we eluded Him He still pursued with love unwearied until He found us.”

The purposeful neglect of the Shepherd:
- The number of the sheep teaches us that God loves us personally and individually.
- The nature of the sheep teaches us that we cannot get back to God on our own.

The Shepherd’s Joyful Discovery
- Consider what the shepherd does not do when he finds the missing sheep: he doesn't get angry.
- Consider what the shepherd does when he finds the missing sheep: he rejoices.

Read through the parable on your own. Use this guide to dig deeper into this scripture:

Be Still: As you read, write out the Bible verse or verses that stick out to you most.

Abide: What truth can you learn? Are there any principles or commands present? What is the overall theme of the text?

Adore: What does the text reveal about God and His character?

Apply: How does this Scripture apply to your life today? How does the truth of God’s Word change your daily perspective? How can you live differently in light of this truth?

Pray: Pray God’s Word back to Him. Turn these thoughts into prayer. Ask the Lord to show you how to meditate on and apply this Scripture to your life.

Cover photo by Greg Wilson on Unsplash

© Copyright 2024. Unless otherwise noted, all Scripture quotations taken from The Holy Bible, New international Version® NIV® Copyright © 1973 1978 1984 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

All Commentaries and Notes pulled from Blue Letter Bible.

I think I speak for most 18-year-olds when I say that the thought of college is scary. This was definitely my experience. However, I am fortunate to say I was raised by faith-filled parents who taught me the importance of finding a good church and a Godly friend group when I got to school. I’m also blessed to say my first Sunday at college, I found Sunnybrook and a great group of people to attend church with.

To someone else, this may sound all picture perfect, but the truth is, I was just putting myself in church that Sunday because it seemed like the “right thing" to do.

Every single college student searches for purpose, identity, or at least something to make us feel like we’re our own person. Being out in the world for the first time—whether you were raised in a Christian home or not —creates this “need” to find your group or your people as soon as possible. I fell into that routine my first semester: I went to church on Sundays and attended our college ministry, “United”, on Tuesdays. But outside of that my life was filled with anything that would make me feel like I “fit in” as an 18-year-old.

When I talk to other college students my age, the story is about the same—we long to fit in.
I remember feeling so empty after that first semester. According to the world’s standards, I was “living my best life.” But why did I still feel so empty? I thought that going to church on Sundays and a little time in my Bible each week was enough to keep me satisfied.

Here's what I found though: you can say all the right things about Scripture and attend every church event, but without a real, personal relationship with Jesus, it means nothing. So how does an college student begin this “relationship”? Here are the steps that God led me through:

When I first began seeking a relationship with Jesus, it felt so cliché. I couldn't wrap my head around how someone I've never physically seen or talked to could be in a relationship with me. So, I had to think about what makes a relationship work.

 My parents’ relationship was a great example for me. They made communication a daily priority and were intentional about spending time together. Think about any lasting, devoted relationships in your life—whether that be friends, family, or others. To keep those relationships strong, you have to make time to communicate. For me, this was hard to grasp. How do you communicate with the Lord? 

Start with the Word of God. The Bible is God-breathed— it’s how God speaks to us today when we simply open it and read. Knowing this, I began setting aside intentional time every single day to sit in Scripture. I prayed before I opened my Bible that God would reveal something new to me.

At first, I remember being so frustrated  there was no audible voice speaking back. It seemed far-fetched that the God of the universe would actually speak to me in His Word. I struggled with this for the longest time and it felt like no matter how much I read, I couldn’t understand it. But the more I opened my Bible, the more it began to make sense. Familiar stories suddenly stood out with new meaning. I started having these “aha” moments: “Wow, that really convicted me there,” or, “Wow, I had never thought of it like that.”

There was never a moment where scripture came out and physically spoke to me, but it gave me moments of encouragement when I needed it and conviction when I was drifting.

Pursuing a relationship with Jesus doesn’t have to start with a radical turnaround moment, but it does start with welcoming the Word of God into your life. This surrender looks like opening your heart to Him and allowing His Word to shape you little by little, every single day.

Am I perfect at communicating every day? Not at all. I’ve hit plenty of “stagnant” points in my relationship with Him—times when I’m not necessarily moving backward, but I’m also not growing the way I could be. That’s usually a sign that I’ve gotten a little too comfortable.

I’ll miss a few days in Scripture and start to feel off. Those days stack up, and before I know it, I've gone five days without opening the Word of God. I become comfortable being lukewarm and not growing. Eventually, I realize that comes from my pride—thinking I can make it through the day without my daily bread and communication with Him.

That's how earthly relationships grow stagnant too. When one person stops putting in the effort, they begin to drift apart. The difference is, unlike any relationship on Earth, Christ never drifts away from you. He's still there—sitting on your dresser, unopened—waiting for you to come back.

Every time I've found myself becoming too comfortable or complacent, Christ has been there waiting for me.

So how do I avoid falling into that pattern? It starts with recognizing my own pride and remembering how deeply I need Him.

In reality, I can do nothing apart from God. Scripture makes that very clear. Setting a routine and making my relationship with Christ a daily priority has been the biggest help in my walk with Him.

Think about it this way: When you're in a relationship with someone you love, you don't just take days off. When you do, you feel like you're missing your other half. Treat your relationship with God the same way—something you can’t go without. Make your relationship with Christ the thing you depend on to make your life "work".

We need a sense of dependence on Christ that’s greater than any dependence we've ever known. What really changed my walk with Him was realizing that my life—and everything I have—is not my own. I'm only capable of what I do because of God.

When I live with humility and dependence on my Creator, I'm able to make Him the true priority in my life.

Galatians 2:20 says this, “I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.”

When I gave my life to Christ, I stopped living for myself. My life is now devoted to Him every single day. That means giving up my own desires so that Christ can be displayed through me.

As we set routines like spending time in His Word we make our relationship with God a true priority—and that begins to change the way we speak, act, and think. The more dependent we become on Christ, the deeper our relationship grows, and the more we begin to reflect Him.

As college students, we are constantly surrounded by things that promise to make us “whole” or give us a sense of identity. But when we give our lives to Christ, our identity is found in Him alone.

These are just a few ways Christ has guided me in my walk with Him —especially as a college student —and I pray they help you think of new ways to connect with the Father.

Cover photo by Sincerely Media on Unsplash

© Copyright 2024. Unless otherwise noted, all Scripture quotations taken from The Holy Bible, New international Version® NIV® Copyright © 1973 1978 1984 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

Building genuine friendships is hard. It takes time, effort, and a level of vulnerability that doesn’t always come easily. We all long to be known and deeply connected, yet finding those kinds of relationships can feel like an uphill climb. And sometimes, surprisingly, it can feel even harder within the church. While the church is meant to be a place of belonging and spiritual family, many of us still wrestle with feelings of isolation, wondering where we fit in or how to form meaningful connections with others.

Growing up, I never had a close or consistent group of friends. Different seasons of life and changing activities often left me longing for genuine friendship and companionship. When I headed off to college, I felt like I had a fresh opportunity to finally find that. I made friends, but many of those relationships led down unhealthy paths or left me feeling even more alone. Despite my best efforts, I continued to face the same emptiness—an unfulfilled longing for real connection.

It wasn’t until years later that I began to recognize God’s provision in those lonely seasons. He had a plan for me all along—one I couldn’t yet see. God was preparing my heart and positioning the right people on the horizon; I simply needed to become the person He was shaping me to be.

I also had to learn that making friends isn’t easy. When I moved to college, I got involved in a church right away, but still found it difficult to connect. I’d call myself a bubbly person—but only once you get to know me. Building friendships in a new church, or even within church life in general, can be hard.

After becoming a follower of Christ, I realized that community isn’t just a nice addition to the Christian life—it’s essential. Scripture reminds us not to neglect meeting together (Hebrews 10:25). God designed us for community, with Himself and with other believers, and the church is both the setting and the source of much of our spiritual growth.

But building meaningful relationships in the church doesn’t just happen by accident. It takes intentionality, consistency, and a willingness to step out of our comfort zones. If you’re longing for deeper friendships within your church family, here are a few simple ways to start:

1. Stick around on a Sunday morning.
If you want to build friendships in the church, start by showing up consistently and introducing yourself to at least one new person each week. Church relationships grow over time, and the more people see you, the easier it becomes to connect. If your church has a welcome or connections team, consider joining it—it’s a great way to meet others while serving.

2. Join a small group.
Small groups create space for fellowship, encouragement, and accountability. When you consistently invest time with a group of believers, friendships begin to form naturally. These are the people who will walk with you through both ordinary and defining moments of life.

3. Start serving.
Our sense of belonging in the church often deepens when we move from simply attending to actively participating. When you serve, you get to know people who share your faith and values, and you build friendships through shared experiences and teamwork.az

Creating and sustaining friendships can be hard, but I encourage you to take a leap of faith. Building genuine relationships takes time, vulnerability, and grace—both for yourself and others. Take a chance for yourself, for your family, and for your own spiritual growth. You never know how God might use a simple conversation, a shared meal, or a moment of honesty to begin something meaningful. Community doesn’t happen overnight, but when we show up and open our hearts, God has a way of bringing the right people into our lives at just the right time.

Cover photo by Gaspar Zaldo on Unsplash

© Copyright 2024. Unless otherwise noted, all Scripture quotations taken from The Holy Bible, New international Version® NIV® Copyright © 1973 1978 1984 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

There I stood—just feet away from the head talent scout for the most prestigious professional wrestling company in the world. My body was still heaving from the try-out match I’d just finished, adrenaline rushing through me, hope clinging tightly to every breath. Then I heard the words that cut deep: “You’re just not ready yet, bud. Keep working, and I’ll see you soon.”

You might be thinking, “That doesn’t sound so bad. It seems like it went well!” But in that moment, all I felt was the crushing sting of rejection. I had poured everything I had—physically, emotionally, and spiritually—into this opportunity, only to walk away empty-handed. Why did it hurt so much? Because, like all of us, I wanted to be chosen. Humans carry a deep, God-given desire to be accepted, to be seen, to be wanted. And when that desire is met with rejection instead, it can shake us to the core—no matter how much effort we’ve put in or how positive the surface seems. Rejection is something we all face—whether in our relationships, careers, ministry, and even within our close friendships and family. But as Christians, we don’t have to be crushed by it. In fact, Scripture offers us a better way to respond. Let’s explore what the Bible says about handling rejection and how we can turn even a painful “no” into spiritual growth and deeper trust in God.

Now rejection isn’t just an individual feeling; it’s a shared human experience. Even more than that, it’s something that Jesus himself faced. “He was despised and rejected by mankind, a man of suffering, and familiar with pain” (Isaiah 53:3).  Think about that, the Son of God, the only perfect person to ever walk this earth, was misunderstood, mocked, betrayed, and ultimately rejected by the very people He came to save. This truth doesn’t erase our pain, but it does reframe it. When we face rejection, we’re not alone in it. Jesus knows exactly what it feels like to be overlooked, doubted, and told “you’re not enough.” He isn’t distant from our disappointment. He’s right there with us in the midst of it. So, when the sting of rejection hits, take comfort in this: Jesus gets it. He’s walked that road, and because of that, He can walk with you through yours.

Rejection often hits the hardest when it feels like a direct attack on who we are. When we’re told we’re “not ready” or “not enough”, it’s easy to internalize those words and let them define us. But as Christians, we need to remind ourselves of a fundamental truth: Our identity is found in Christ, not in the opinions or approval of others. 1 John 3:1 tells us “See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God!” Just like how I was reminded that my worth isn’t based on a talent scout saying I’m ready or not, your worth isn’t based on a job interview leading to an offer, or if you getting the relationship you hope for. We are already chosen, loved, and accepted by the creator of the universe.

This perspective shifts everything. It’s not that rejection doesn’t hurt-it still does. But it no longer has the power to define you or your future. Instead of allowing rejection to crush your spirit, you can turn to God and remember that your value is anchored in His love for you.

Something my wife and I will say often is “It’s not rejection, just a redirection.” I wholeheartedly believe that God uses what we view as rejection simply as a redirection; leading us to something better. I believe that because scripture supports it. In the book of Romans, Paul writes, “We know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose” (Romans 8:28). What if the rejection you’re facing is actually a blessing in disguise? Maybe that job wasn’t the right fit for you? Maybe that relationship was not the one God had planned for you? Or maybe, just maybe, God is working behind the scenes to guide you toward something even better? Something that aligns more with His purpose for your life.

Rather than seeing rejection as a roadblock, try viewing it as a redirection. When doors close, trust that God is opening another path that’s better suited for His plan. You may not see it now, but in time, you will.

I know that rejection has a way of stirring up strong emotions like hurt, frustration, confusion, and sometimes even anger. It’s tempting to lash out, to hold grudges, or let bitterness take root in our hearts. But as followers of Christ, we are called to respond in a way that reflects Christ’s love, not the world’s way of handling hurt. Jesus specifically tells us to “bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you” (Luke 6:28).

That’s a hard command, isn’t it? When we’re rejected or mistreated, our instinct is often to defend ourselves, to retaliate, or to hold onto the hurt. But Jesus calls us to something radically different. Instead of nursing a grudge or plotting revenge, we’re called to bless those who have hurt us. This doesn’t mean we ignore the pain or pretend it didn’t happen. Rather, it’s a choice to release the offense into God’s hands, trusting Him to work through the situation.

Rejection can be an opportunity for spiritual growth, but only if we respond in grace. Ephesians 4:31-32 reminds us, “Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you” (Ephesians 4:31-32). When we forgive, when we let go of the bitterness that comes with rejection, we reflect the heart of Jesus. After all, He has forgiven us for far more than any rejection we could ever experience. In the moment of rejection, we are called to imitate Christ by responding with compassion, humility, and grace. This doesn’t mean we pretend everything is fine or suppress our emotions. It means we take those hurt feelings to God, trusting Him to heal them. Then, with time, we choose to forgive- both the person who rejected us and ourselves for holding onto the hurt.

When rejection strikes, it’s easy to feel like you’re carrying the weight of it alone. But one of the greatest gifts God has given us is the ability to bring our pain, frustration, and hurt to Him in prayer. Prayer isn’t just about asking for something; it’s about connecting with our Heavenly Father, sharing our hearts, and allowing Him to guide us through our emotions. 1 Peter 5:7 tells us: “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.”

This is an invitation, not a suggestion. God cares deeply about what you’re going through, and He wants to hear from you in your moments of pain and rejection. There’s no need to hide your hurt or pretend everything is okay. You can come to Him as you are, with all your questions, doubts, and heartache.

Prayer matters in times of rejection because it refocuses our identity on Him, reminding us that we are chosen and loved regardless of others’ opinions. Through prayer, we release control, trusting God’s sovereignty to redeem what feels lost and work all things for our good. It also opens the door for God’s healing, softening our hearts and bringing peace where there was hurt. Most importantly, prayer deepens our relationship with God, drawing us closer to His comforting presence and reminding us that He understands our pain and carries it with us.

Practical Steps for Praying Through Rejection:

• Be Honest: Don’t try to sugarcoat your feelings. God already knows your heart, so there’s no need to hide your hurt. Pour it out to Him honestly, just like you would with a close friend.
• Ask for Healing: Don’t just talk about the pain—ask God to heal your heart. Trust that He can replace bitterness with peace, frustration with patience, and rejection with love.
• Reaffirm Your Identity: Remind yourself (and God, if it helps) that your worth is found in Christ alone. Ask God to help you see yourself through His eyes, not through the lens of others’ opinions.
• Listen: Prayer isn’t just speaking—it’s also listening. Take time to be still and hear God’s voice, whether through Scripture, the Holy Spirit, or a quiet prompting. He may have a new direction or affirmation to offer you in this season.

Taking rejection to God in prayer is an act of surrender and trust. Instead of letting the sting of rejection fester, we choose to bring it to the One who can heal our wounds, redirect our paths, and transform our hearts. If you're in the middle of a rejection right now, I encourage you to make prayer your first response. Allow God to walk with you through this pain and remember that His love for you remains unshaken—no matter what the world may say.

Rejection is painful, but it doesn’t have to define you. As a follower of Christ, you can face rejection with hope—knowing that Jesus understands your pain, your identity is secure in Him, and God is working even in the "no’s" to lead you toward His greater purpose. When you bring your hurt to God, respond with grace, and trust His redirection, rejection becomes a tool for growth—not a dead end.

So when the world says, “You’re not enough,” remember: God already said you’re His.

Cover photo by Melody Zimmerman on Unsplash

© Copyright 2024. Unless otherwise noted, all Scripture quotations taken from The Holy Bible, New international Version® NIV® Copyright © 1973 1978 1984 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

As a mother of two young boys, one of my favorite things to observe is their relationship with their dad. In their eyes, he is a true hero! They ask for haircuts that are the same, want shirts that look like his, and mimic his every move. A great compliment–and responsibility–to him, I’m sure! It also makes me incredibly grateful that they have a father worth emulating. If they grow up to be like him, then I would consider my parenting a great success!

At the core of the human spirit, there seems to be a deep desire to follow someone. How helpful it is to have someone a little further down the road than you are- whether it be in age, or knowledge, or experience. We all tend to look for people to tell us where to go and how to get there. Nowhere is this more important, in my opinion, than in our faith-walk.

If you consider the life of Jesus, it is exactly what he modeled in His life on earth: disciples observing how He moved through the world, and Him teaching them how to do the same. It was the Apostle Paul that would later implore his fellow Christians, “follow me as I follow after Christ” (1 Corinthians 11:1). So, can I ask you—who are you following?

When I consider my own faith-walk, it has been Christian mentors that have made the most tangible difference in my life: speaking truth when I need, encouragement when I am filled with doubt, and a challenge when my pride has cut off what God might be whispering to me. It has been Christian women a few steps ahead of me that have helped me become more like Jesus in a way that I never would have without them.

Maybe you sit here today desperate for someone to speak into your life or maybe you sit here contemplating if such a thing is even necessary. No matter which camp you find yourself in, let me give you some biblical encouragement to find a mentor, and lean in.

So how do you find one? If they are an essential part of the Christian life, how do you go about finding the right person and the right fit?

• Pray. As cliché as it sounds, seek wisdom from the ultimate Counselor. Ask God that he would begin to show you people in your life that follow Him in a way that you admire and would like to emulate. You’ll be surprised that the people He illuminates for you.
• Seek honestly. Once you feel as though God has revealed someone that would make a good fit, approach them honestly about what you’re looking for. Share with them your hopes in meeting together, getting as specific as how often you’d like to get together and what things you would like their wisdom on. The more you can share up front about your expectations, the better your meetings will be and the more equipped your mentor will feel going in.
• Meet graciously. As you begin meeting, extend grace to both yourself and your mentor. Establishing trust will take time, and meetings at first might feel rigid and unfruitful. Keep meeting. Allow time for each of you to get to know the other, and trust that God will be at work. Remember that your mentor is only human, so understand that though you are seeking spiritual maturity, you will not get perfection from them. Trust that if you prayed through the process, God has brought you together for a purpose and will see it through.

One of my favorite images in all of Scripture is given at the start of Hebrews 12, where it speaks of the “cloud of witnesses” believers are surrounded by: men and women who have run their race, who give us the endurance to run our own as well. But can I encourage you, the cloud of witnesses doesn’t just stand before you in heaven cheering you on. They are around you here and now as well! So, use them. Lean into the believers who are running their race right now and ask if you can run alongside them. Ask for their help in throwing off the sin that entangles you and in encouraging you to persevere as you run the race God has called you to.

Cover photo by Priscilla Du Preez on Unsplash

© Copyright 2024. Unless otherwise noted, all Scripture quotations taken from The Holy Bible, New international Version® NIV® Copyright © 1973 1978 1984 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

I’ve always been someone who needed to stay busy—whether through activities, hobbies, or even small distractions. I felt like I had to keep myself occupied to keep the silence away. My home was rarely quiet, which helped for a while, but whenever I was alone, I found myself filling the space with noise or tasks. As a child, and even into my early adult years, I feared silence because of the thoughts it might bring. My mind was constantly racing, and negative thoughts could slip in easily and send me into a spiral.

Being pregnant with my first child has already brought many new things into my life, but the most surprising has been a newfound enjoyment of silence. After finding out my husband and I were expecting, it took a while for the reality to sink in. I went through a phase of shock where I wasn’t sure it was really happening. Then one day, while sitting outside with our dog, enjoying the weather about to roll in, I just sat there. Normally, I’m not one to sit still or do nothing, but the peace and tranquility of that moment flooded me. In the silence and solitude—aside from our pup curled up beside me—I thanked God and worshiped Him for the blessing He had given our family.

That moment changed me. From then on, I began to view silence differently. I no longer saw it as something to fear. The silence itself wasn’t the enemy; rather, the enemy had been using it against me. Jesus has transformed my understanding of silence into something to nurture and relish, not to avoid.

We can see from Jesus Himself that He used silence and solitude to care for His soul. These were sacred moments between Him and His Father. It was how He began His ministry and how He made important decisions. The Gospels give us multiple examples:

Jesus understood the importance of silence and solitude. Ruth Haley Barton once wrote, “Sometimes we don’t realize how exhausted we are until we attend a silent retreat.” Jesus knew this truth. He knew the soul’s need for peace and surrender, and He sought it in quiet moments alone with the Father.

In their book Time Away, Ben Campbell Johnson and Paul H. Lang write, “Silence is a deep stillness, a consciousness that gives focus …” This stillness can be hard to find in today’s culture. But as Jesus calls us to Himself, He calls us to surrender. There is a depth of peace within us waiting to be discovered, and it can only be found in the One who gives it. Before Jesus ascended into heaven, He said, “My peace I give you …” (John 14:27).

We cannot enjoy or receive that peace when we are not in the presence of the Father. So here’s a challenge for you: Find a space that helps you embrace silence. Be bold enough to be still and listen for the Father’s voice. How is He speaking to you? Allow your senses to pay attention. And when your mind wanders, be gentle with yourself—just guide it back to the silence.

We think we are in control, but God is so much bigger than us. Let Him show you His peace and blessing through silence and solitude in Him.

Cover photo by Vladimir Fedotov on Unsplash

© Copyright 2024. Unless otherwise noted, all Scripture quotations taken from The Holy Bible, New international Version® NIV® Copyright © 1973 1978 1984 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

When I think about forgiveness in my faith journey, it seems like it should come easily. But the truth is, genuine forgiveness is often tough. While forgiveness may be difficult, it is one of the most powerful and freeing acts someone can experience.

Let’s look at three parts of forgiveness: forgiveness of self, others, and God. Each is unique, but all are equally important when working towards healing and wholeness.

1. Forgiveness of Self
Forgiveness of self sounds funny, like, “why do I need to forgive myself for something?” But really, if there is guilt and shame that haunts you, there is probably a need to forgive yourself.

I’ve found in my own life that I hold myself to a much higher standard than I hold others to; therefore, when I fall short of those standards, I tend to blame myself for my wrongdoings. I look at all the reasons I was at fault and how the situation was my doing, even if it wasn’t. While I know God offers grace freely, I tend to withhold it from myself.

When we forgive ourselves, we aren’t excusing our wrongdoing but acknowledging it and learning from it. We have a choice to stop punishing ourselves for something we can no longer change.

Forgiving yourself starts by accepting that we are more than our past mistakes, and we need to practice extending grace to ourselves.

If God doesn’t condemn us, why do we stay stuck in cycles of self-condemnation?

2. Forgiveness of Others
When most people think about forgiveness, they first think about forgiving others. However, remember that forgiving isn’t the same as forgetting, nor does it mean condoning what happened. I believe that whether you feel another person deserves forgiveness, you aren’t forgiving them for their sake, you’re forgiving them for your own. When we choose to forgive someone, we are choosing to not let the situation hold us captive.

When you harbor resentment and anger towards someone, it does not affect the person who has wronged you; instead, it creates a cold and bitter heart within yourself. Forgiveness frees us from that weight.

Forgiveness may look different for every situation. It may be a one-time decision, or you may have to make a daily decision that you have forgiven someone. Each time we choose forgiveness in our hearts, we are creating room for God to heal those broken areas.

In this portion of Scripture, Jesus isn’t suggesting that we forgive; he was commanding us to forgive. When we can forgive, we unlock the peace we have been longing for.

3. Forgiveness of God
Forgiveness of God can feel strange; however, as Christians, it is normal to get mad at God. We question why He didn’t stop the pain, why He didn’t answer our prayers, why He allows suffering, and even question where He is at.

Ultimately, forgiving God isn’t about something He has done wrong because we know God does no wrong. It’s about letting go of the hurt we carry in our hearts, so we can better trust Him.

I’ve found it helpful in my own life to tell God when I’m angry at Him, just like I’d tell someone else I love if I were angry with them. I tell myself that I can’t stay angry with God, so I use tools to help myself through it. Some of these tools are prayer, reading Scripture, and worship. Every season will be different, but by the end of it, you come to forgive God, because you can see how He is going to use that hardship and pain for His glory.

One of my favorite Scriptures on forgiveness is Luke 23:34, “Jesus said, ‘Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.’” If Jesus can forgive the people who are persecuting Him and sending Him to the cross, can’t we forgive one another?

• Are you struggling to forgive yourself for something in your past?
• Is there someone in your life that you need to forgive?
• Are you harboring anger towards God that you need to acknowledge and address?

If you answered yes to any of those questions, take some time to pray about it. Talk to someone close to you whom you trust. Know that forgiveness is a process that won’t happen overnight, but it is the beginning of your healing journey.

Cover photo by Vince Fleming on Unsplash

© Copyright 2024. Unless otherwise noted, all Scripture quotations taken from The Holy Bible, New international Version® NIV® Copyright © 1973 1978 1984 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

Have you ever felt like you’re not equipped to encourage someone else in their walk with Christ? Maybe you’ve thought, “I mess up too much—how could I help someone else when I’m still trying to hold myself together?” If so, you're not alone. Many Christians feel inadequate when it comes to discipling or encouraging others in their faith.

But here’s the truth: no matter where you are in your walk with Jesus, you are called to be a disciple and to make disciples. That might leave you wondering, “What exactly is a disciple, and how do I disciple someone else?” At its core, being a disciple means following Jesus, being transformed by Him, and joining in His mission.

Encouraging others in their faith is a key part of discipleship. It’s the intentional process of helping someone grow in their relationship with God and become more like Christ. Encouragement isn’t just a kind word—it’s a powerful reminder of what’s true when life gets hard, and one of the most meaningful ways we reflect Jesus to the people around us.

If you’re seeking to disciple someone, or just need a few reminders in the process, keep these foundational truths in mind:

1. Be a Disciple First

Before you guide someone else, make sure you're rooted in your own walk with Christ. You cannot lead someone where you haven’t gone yourself.

• Lay a firm foundation in your own life before trying to help lay someone else’s.
• Make time for spiritual growth—study Scripture, seek accountability, and pursue personal discipleship.
• Remember: our lives are designed to glorify God and reflect His character. The way you live speaks louder than what you say.
• Your “building blocks” must be strong—and that strength must come from Christ alone.

2. Your Story Has Purpose

Your testimony isn’t accidental. No matter how ordinary or messy it may seem, God can use your story to point someone else to Him.

• Don’t underestimate the power of sharing your own journey—your story may be what helps someone recognize the love and grace of Jesus.
• It’s not about having a polished past; it’s about showing how God has worked in and through your life.
• Your story is a unique testimony of God's faithfulness, redemption, and grace in real life.

3. Start With What You Know

You don’t need to have all the answers to begin discipling someone. You simply need a heart willing to walk alongside another.

• Use the knowledge and experiences you already have—it’s more than enough to get started.
• And if you feel like you don’t know much, just show up and be present. Consistency and care go a long way in the discipleship journey.
• God works through humility and availability, not perfection.

4. Stay Rooted in Awe of God

Discipleship isn’t about what you can do—it’s about what Christ is doing through you. Lose sight of Him, and the mission becomes skewed.

• If your awe of God fades, you risk turning this sacred work into a checklist—something that feels heavy, performative, or legalistic.
• We cannot disciple well apart from Christ. When we try to do it on our own, we risk making it about our moral success instead of God's transforming grace.
• Keep Jesus at the center. Let every conversation, every prayer, and every step of this journey flow from a deep love for Him.

Discipleship isn’t about having it all figured out—it’s about being faithful, available, and deeply rooted in Christ. As you walk with others, remember to first walk closely with Him. Your story matters, your presence is powerful, and your growth sets the tone. Keep Jesus at the center, stay in awe of who He is, and let your life reflect the grace and truth you hope others will come to know. You’re not doing this alone—He is with you every step of the way, equipping and sustaining you.

This calling to disciple others is a direct response to Jesus’ own prayer for more laborers in His harvest—those moved by compassion and willing to join Him in reaching the lost and broken (Matthew 9). The harvest is still plentiful, and the need is still great. One of the most meaningful ways we live out our faith is by encouraging someone else in their journey with God. When we do, we step into Jesus’ mission and reflect His heart to the world around us.

Cover photo by Priscilla Du Preez on Unsplash

© Copyright 2024. Unless otherwise noted, all Scripture quotations taken from The Holy Bible, New international Version® NIV® Copyright © 1973 1978 1984 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

Did you have a favorite hiding spot or quiet place as a child? One of mine was at my grandparents’ house—in a closet that had access to the attic. There was a little ledge up there, just big enough for my sister and me to host tea parties. My grandma would sit on the step below and sip imaginary tea with us. But that spot became more than just a play area. It became a place I returned to when I needed space to think, write, or simply be still.

Even though my grandparents no longer own that house, that little corner of the attic was a true safe place for me. It brought comfort when I was scared, angry, or overwhelmed.

As an adult, those emotions haven’t disappeared. I still have moments of fear, frustration, or anxiety. But I’ve realized that grown-up life doesn’t always offer a physical place to hide. When we don’t have a space to run to, we can start to feel lost. We often turn to things that seem comforting—self-help books, entertainment, even unhealthy habits—but those only offer temporary relief. In those desperate moments, where can we run for lasting comfort?
 
But, what if that place wasn’t actually a place, but a person?

Jesus as Our Refuge
Since I was a kid, I have struggled with vivid nightmares. I still, as an adult, occasionally wake up clutching my sheets and gasping for breath. That fear I felt as a child hasn’t completely gone away. But something has changed. Since becoming a Christian, I’ve learned to call on the name of Jesus when fear tries to take over. In the middle of the night, and when I have awoken enough to understand where I am at, I’ve whispered, “In Jesus’ name, go away,” and peace has followed.

That simple act of saying His name has become my new hiding place. Jesus has become my refuge, and this can be true for you too. When fear, anxiety, or sorrow rise up, speaking His name can bring supernatural calm. Psalm 46:1 reminds us, “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.”

He is the peace in the storm, the rescuer when the walls cave in, and the hand that lifts us out of the pit. He invites us to come to Him: “Come to me, all who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28). Jesus doesn't just offer relief—He offers Himself.

Jesus’ Presence Is Our Constant Safe Place
The beautiful thing about the refuge we find in Jesus is that it never fades, and it’s never out of reach. When we put our trust in Him as Lord and Savior, His Spirit takes residence within us. Through His selfless act of salvation, Jesus pours His Holy Spirit into us—to help us, guide us, and make us more like Him.

Unlike the attic nook I once shared with my sister, the safe place we now have in Jesus is constant, unchanging, and always accessible. He promises in Matthew 28:20, “… I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” Through every season, through every trial, He is with us.
 
Jesus, the Ultimate Comforter
No matter where life leads or what trials come our way, the presence of Jesus remains our unshakable refuge—a safe place that moves with us, strengthens us, and never disappears. Whatever you're facing today, know this: Jesus sees it. He knows the thoughts racing through your mind, the burdens you’re carrying, and the pain that doesn’t seem to go away. And still, He invites you into His peace.

“Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.”
—Psalm 91:1

I may not have that secret hiding spot anymore, but I do have a safe place for my soul, and His name is Jesus. Where do you go when life feels heavy? What might it look like invite Jesus into that place?

Cover photo by Sergi Simona on Unsplash

© Copyright 2024. Unless otherwise noted, all Scripture quotations taken from The Holy Bible, New international Version® NIV® Copyright © 1973 1978 1984 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

One of my favorite TV shows is How I Met Your Mother. The perfect mix of rom(ance) and com(edy), the show is based around the main character, Ted Mosby. Over the course of nine seasons, Ted tells the tale of how he fell in love with his kid’s mother. However, this is not my favorite love story from the show – that would be the story of Marshall and Lily Ericksen.

Marshall and Lily met on their first day of college and fell in love immediately. From there the rest is history. They date, get married, buy the house in the suburbs, start a family — the works. And despite their fights and arguments, they continued to show up for each other unconditionally.  Their love is so deep that no matter what happens throughout the show their relationship not only weathered the storm, but it grew stronger.

Isn’t that what a biblical love is? That despite our circumstances, actions, or sins, God still loves us? Biblical love is selfless. It is sacrificial. It is unconditional and rooted in action – not just emotion. It’s a commitment to seek the good of others, even at personal cost, and it reflects the very character of God.

The embodiment of biblical love can be applied in every facet of our lives. Especially in our homes, our churches, and our communities.

IN OUR HOMES
It is no secret that we all get tired and weary – especially after a long day of work. Sometimes we get home to the family and all we want to do is turn on the TV and tune everything out. But what about our kids? What about our spouses? Why should they be left with the fragments of our energy?

Philippians 2:3-4 (ESV) says, “Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.”

The Apostle Paul is telling us that instead of retreating into a selfish rest, we need to choose to put others, in this case, our families, first. We need to be there for them - serving them. Not only serving them but doing so with humility and patience, regardless of its acknowledgement or convenience.

Go for the bike ride. Play catch. Do the dishes. Even when your tank is empty. Show your family what it is like to be biblically loved.

IN OUR CHURCH
As Christians, it is easy for our hearts to grow ‘crusty’. Sometimes we want to stay in our bubble and only focus on our lane. But this does not show biblical love. Biblical love in the church is inviting, welcoming, and caring for someone new in your church community. This is even more important when someone may feel unseen or out of place.

So, what does this look like in our day-to-day?

We need to eliminate judgment and favoritism. We need to love all of God’s children – regardless of their appearance or background. This is what we are called do to in James 2:1-4 (ESV). “Show no partiality... if you pay attention to the one who wears the fine clothing and say, ‘You sit here in a good place,’ while you say to the poor man, ‘You stand over there’... have you not then made distinctions among yourselves?”

Let’s take this into your next Sunday morning. Greet a few new faces with a warm hello on their way into the building. Invite someone to lunch after church or throughout the week. Spark a conversation with someone who appears to be sitting alone on a Sunday morning.

IN OUR COMMUNITIES
“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him. Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only Son of God.” John 3:16-18 (ESV)

Biblical love does not wait for people, in this case, the community gives it freely. In verse 17, Jesus does not come to condemn the world but to save it. He is showing us that true love seeks to restore others, not to judge.

Biblical love in our communities is active, sacrificial, and unconditional. This could be as simple as paying for a person’s coffee behind us at Starbucks or mowing your elderly neighbor’s lawn. You could seek an acquaintance on the margins of society and build a relationship — have a conversation, get to know them, offer support.

Let’s bring the light of the Holy Spirit into our communities by loving like Jesus.

Just like Marshall and Lily’s love story stood the test of time through commitment and sacrifice, we are called to reflect an even greater love—a biblical love—in the way we live every day. It’s a love that isn’t based on convenience or emotion, but one that is selfless, sacrificial, and unconditional, just like the love God has shown us through Christ.

Whether it’s showing up for your family after a long day, reaching out to someone new at church, or serving your community without expecting anything in return, these everyday actions embody the heart of God. Love like this doesn’t just tell people about Jesus—it shows them.

Cover photo by Koli Abhishek on Unsplash

© Copyright 2024. Unless otherwise noted, all Scripture quotations taken from The Holy Bible, New international Version® NIV® Copyright © 1973 1978 1984 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

Let the word of Christ dwell richly among you, in all wisdom teaching and admonishing one another through psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts.
Colossians 3:16 CSB

From Moses and the Israelites singing a song of deliverance after crossing the Red Sea to Paul and Silas lifting their voices in praise from a Roman prison, singing has been a vital part of the Christian faith. Throughout all of history, believers have lifted their voices to God in praise, lament, and thanksgiving. One way that this type of worship has taken form is through hymns. Hymns are an expression of devotion but are also tools for teaching and uniting the people of God.

Perhaps you are someone who delights in singing hymns. Just the thought of them brings a warmth to your soul that is closely tied to fond memories and reflective worship. Or perhaps, what seems to be a bit more common, is that you aren’t particularly fond of hymns. You think that they are boring and don’t make any sense. But regardless of your personal preferences or feelings, hymns are rooted in both truth and tradition.

The earliest hymns date back to the 7th century B.C. But what we know of hymns today was really a result of a movement of the church in the Middle Ages. At this time, music within the church service was often quite elaborate. Sung by a multi-part choir and typically sung in Latin, this part of the church service was a time of quiet observation and reflection for most who attended. But as the Protestant Reformation caught wind, worship was brought back to the people.

Leaders such as Martin Luther and John Calvin both saw the importance of congregational singing. It was a time for the bride of Christ, the church, to come together and worship God as one body. Luther penned hymns that reflected Biblical truth in both memorable and singable lines. An example of this is his well-known and time-tested hymn, “A Mighty Fortress is Our God.” Calvin, on the other hand, advocated for simply singing the Psalms and Scripture, but doing so altogether as the body of Christ. Both saw the benefit of giving the gift of worship, through music and singing, back to each person who attended a church service.

As the church continued to grow, the 18th century brought about some of the most beautiful and well-known hymns for congregations to sing. They were devotional, doctrinal, and deeply rooted in Scripture. They often reflected on the whole story of redemption that is found in Christ. Songs like Isaac Watts’, “When I Survey the Wondrous Cross” and Charles Wesley’s, “Come, Thou Long Expected Jesus” are still sung frequently today. Why have these songs held on? Perhaps it is because they are not just musical pieces, but that they hold deep truth. They are meant to be sung by engaging both the heart and the mind.

Consider this stanza from “When I Survey the Wondrous Cross.”
Were the whole realm of nature mine
That were a tribute far too small
Love so amazing so divine
Demands my soul my life my all

Or this stanza from “Come, Thou Long Expected Jesus.”
Born thy people to deliver,
born a child and yet a King,
born to reign in us forever,
now thy gracious kingdom bring.
By thine own eternal spirit
rule in all our hearts alone;
by thine all sufficient merit,
raise us to thy glorious throne.

Both hymns are examples of songs with deep theological reflections and scriptural truths. They help us to see our Savior’s great love and His plan of redemption. They declare Biblical truths that we see in both the story of the incarnation and the resurrection.

In today’s worship culture, music often chases trends or emotional highs. Neither of these things are wrong. We sing many new, modern-day worship songs in our modern churches. Here at Sunnybrook, we make sure that they are theologically sound and doctrinally pure, agreeing with our beliefs. Nevertheless, they are often written in such a way as to bring the worshipper into a heightened sense of emotion and presence. As we sing them, we must check our heart posture to make sure that we are not getting caught up in the song simply because of a drum build or a guitar riff, but that we are focusing on the One who is worthy of our worship.

Perhaps that is why hymns can feel like a breath of fresh air. They offer something different: depth and richness. They are a way of passing down the faith, word by word, verse by verse. Good hymns do more than make us feel; they help us think rightly about God, His grace, and His promises.
 
Whether drawn directly from Scripture or carefully crafted by faithful believers, hymns give us words to express our hope, our need, and our joy in Christ. They remind us that worship is not about performance or preference but about honoring the Lord with reverent praise and sound doctrine.

Today, at Sunnybrook, we sing both modern-day worship songs and hymns of that past. The hymns connect us with the great cloud of witnesses who have gone before us. The modern worship songs bring word and thought to some of our inmost emotions. Together, they invite us into worship that helps us to see our Savior, His great love, and the richness of redemption available to us from the Father.

In joining with other believers in worship, which was at the heart of the hymnody movement, we take part in something much bigger than ourselves: a timeless chorus of truth, echoing from Scripture through the centuries, and lifting our hearts to the One who is worthy of all praise.
 

Cover photo by Michael Maasen on Unsplash

© Copyright 2024. Unless otherwise noted, all Scripture quotations taken from The Holy Bible, New international Version® NIV® Copyright © 1973 1978 1984 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

When we are asked the question, “What is that person like?”, we tend to list characteristics we know about the person. They might be funny, smart, kind, or even bossy. We often stick to what we know and what we’ve heard from others. These descriptions are our perceptions of people, and perception is the ability to recognize or understand something through our senses.
 
Now, when we’re asked the question, “What is God like?”, we often take the same mental path as we do when describing people—relying on our perception of Him. But the thing about perception is that it can be skewed by personal experience, emotion, or even a lack of sensory understanding.

An attribute of God, however, is something true about Him. Fully acknowledging that it's impossible for us to comprehend who God is through our humanness, I say this humbly: We know very little about God, and what we do know is only a fraction of what we perceive. God is complete in all ways—in ways we cannot comprehend.

So where do we begin in seeking to understand Him? One helpful place is to explore His attributes as revealed in Scripture.

An Overview of God's Attributes
When we talk about the attributes—or characteristics—of God, they are often grouped into two categories: incommunicable and communicable attributes.

• Incommunicable attributes are qualities that belong to God alone and are not shared with His creation. These include traits like His independence, unchangeableness (immutability), and infinitude.
• Communicable attributes, on the other hand, are those that God shares with His creatures in a limited and analogous way. Examples include His love, holiness, and wisdom. 

It’s important to understand that these attributes are not separate parts of God. Rather, He is fully and perfectly all that He reveals Himself to be. His love is holy, His holiness is eternal, and His eternality is wise. God's attributes are unified and inseparable from His divine nature.

He is before all things, and in him all things hold together.
—Colossians 1:17
Great is our Lord and mighty in power; his understanding has no limit.
—Psalm 147:5

God is self-existing, without origin. When we think of things here on Earth, there’s always a beginning. It’s like the old joke: “Did the chicken or the egg come first?” But with God, there is no beginning—and no end. He is self-existent, meaning He exists completely on His own.

This can be one of the hardest things for us to understand because we are finite beings. We are born, we live, we die. God has none of those limitations.

A.W. Tozer writes:
“To admit that there is One who lies beyond us, who exists outside of all our categories, who will not be dismissed with a name, who will not appear before the bar of our reason, nor submit to our curious inquiries: this requires a great deal of humility, more than most of us possess. So we save face by thinking God down to our level—or at least down to where we can manage Him.”

“I the Lord do not change. So you, the descendants of Jacob, are not destroyed.”
—Malachi 3:6

God is never changing and incapable of change. He has been the same from the beginning of time and will continue unchanged into eternity. His character, His attributes, and His promises never change.

This is incredibly encouraging for believers. Even in our moments of doubt and fear, we have the assurance that God remains who He says He is. Unlike humans, who change and often disappoint us, God is constant.

This also gives us assurance in our salvation. Since He has promised us eternal life through Jesus Christ, we can rest in the peace that this promise is unchanging.

By the word of the Lord the heavens were made, their starry host by the breath of his mouth.
—Psalm 33:6

God is all-powerful. To say God holds all power is an understatement—He is all power. Psalm 33 tells us that by His voice alone, the heavens were made.

“Omni” is a prefix meaning “all” or “unlimited,” and “potent” means “power.” God has the power and ability to accomplish whatever He wills, effortlessly. It's important to note that God cannot do anything contradictory to His nature. As Hebrews 6:18 (NLT) says:

“So God has given both his promise and his oath. These two things are unchangeable because it is impossible for God to lie. Therefore, we who have fled to him for refuge can have great confidence as we hold to the hope that lies before us.”

Remember the former things, those of long ago;
I am God, and there is no other;
I am God, and there is none like me.
I make known the end from the beginning,
from ancient times, what is still to come.
I say, ‘My purpose will stand,
and I will do all that I please.’
—Isaiah 46:9–10

God is all-knowing. He knows everything—every person, thought, act, and emotion.

We can take great comfort in knowing that God is aware of even the smallest details of our lives. As Matthew 10:29–30 reminds us, not even a sparrow falls without His knowledge, and He knows every hair on our heads. He sees what we go through and understands it. Even more, Jesus has experienced every human emotion firsthand.

This truth can be especially comforting when Satan tries to isolate us with feelings of loneliness. We are never truly alone—God sees, knows, and cares.

Where can I go from your Spirit?
Where can I flee from your presence?
If I go up to the heavens, you are there;
if I make my bed in the depths, you are there.
If I rise on the wings of the dawn,
if I settle on the far side of the sea,
even there your hand will guide me,
your right hand will hold me fast.
—Psalm 139:7–10

God is always everywhere—fully present at all times, in all places.

This attribute is closely connected to His infinitude. Remember: God is all of these attributes at the same time. He is present in both time and space without limitation.

Psalm 139 powerfully declares that we can never escape His presence. For those struggling with loneliness or feeling that God is distant, this truth is a deep comfort. God is near—closer than our very thoughts. Tozer writes: “The awareness that we are never truly alone quiets the storms within us and brings peace to our souls.”

These five attributes offer just a glimpse into the nature of our Heavenly Father. I encourage you to dig deeper—read His Word and discover more of who He is. Reflect on the attributes He shares with us, too—His love, mercy, justice, and grace.

Happy digging!

Resources for further study on the attributes of God:

• The Knowledge of the Holy – A.W. Tozer
• None Like Him – Jen Wilkin

Cover photo by Brooke Balentine on Unsplash

© Copyright 2024. Unless otherwise noted, all Scripture quotations taken from The Holy Bible, New international Version® NIV® Copyright © 1973 1978 1984 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

How to Fight Spiritually

God wins the war against Satan. This likely isn’t a surprise to you, but what is a surprise to many is the fact that you are fighting in the war. I mentioned this in part 1 of this series on spiritual warfare. Everyone who has ever lived has been a participant in this battle. You’re fighting for the good side or the bad side. Even if you don’t realize it. This begs the question, which side are you fighting for? If you’re not sure, it’s likely that you’re not actively fighting against the powers of darkness, and you’re fighting with the enemy. Think about it this way: If you’re in a river and you’re not swimming upstream, then you’re floating downstream. This spiritual war is the same. If you’re doing nothing at all, you’re moving away from the goal.
 
What is the goal? To work alongside God as He saves as many people as possible, so they can spend eternity with Him. God certainly doesn't need us to win this war, but He gives us the honor of working with Him, and we have to be active and intentional in this fight. So, how do we do that? Well, the answer is much simpler than you might expect, and it’s powerful. To find the answer, we’re going to go to Ephesians 6:14-18. It says this:

“Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people.”
 
How do you fight against the powers of darkness? You have to put on the armor of God. Let’s break this down and talk about how we do this practically.

The Belt of Truth
The first thing the Apostle Paul mentions here is to equip yourself with the belt of truth. To fight in this battle, you have to know the truth. What is the truth? This seems to be a big question in the world today. Everyone believes that they have their own version of the truth, but this is Satan deceiving us. The thing about truth is that it’s not subjective. Something is true or it’s not. Period. The devil will try to get you to compromise the truth even if it’s just 10%. But something that’s 90% true isn’t true at all. So what is truth? God’s Word. If you don’t know what God says, then you will more easily believe Satan’s lies. In John 8:32, Jesus said, “You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” Read God’s Word, let it sink into your heart, and be set free by it.  

The Breastplate of Righteousness
Righteousness is defined as the quality of being morally right or justifiable. But here’s the problem: none of us are justifiable on our own. God’s beautiful solution to this problem was Jesus. 2 Corinthians 5:21 says, “God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.” Those who know Jesus as Savior and Lord, get to point to Him and the perfect way that He lived and claim that as our own. But this astounding reality should make us want to live more like He lived—to live a righteous life to the best of our ability. So do that. It’s become cliche but ask yourself “What would Jesus do?” and do it. Take care of your neighbors, welcome people into your home, volunteer your time, and give your resources to bless. Live like Jesus. How is this fighting against Satan? Well, when people see the way you live it will stir something in them and they will ask why you’re different. If you live a righteous life, people will come to know Jesus, and when people come to know Jesus, you’re taking back ground from the enemy.

Feet Fitted with Readiness
Next Paul says to have your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. Readiness is being fully prepared and willing to do something. “Do what?” you might ask. Romans 10:15 and Isaiah 52:7 both say, “How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!” Paul is saying that you better be prepared and willing to share the gospel. Tell people about the Good News that you have in Jesus. In doing so, you’re fighting against the enemy. But also, don’t miss the fact that our readiness comes from the gospel of peace. This is a beautiful picture of who God is. Who has peace when fighting in a war? Christians because peace doesn’t come from our circumstances, it comes from God Himself.

The Shield of Faith
Shields are used for protection. And faith is the shield that protects us from all the ways Satan attacks us. Hebrews 11:1 says, “Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.” It is faith that reminds us that everything will be okay, that God works for the good of those who love Him, and that Jesus will come back and right every wrong and eradicate all pain one day. Unfortunately, it’s all too easy to lose sight of that. So, figure out how you best hold onto faith. Maybe for you it’s remembering ways God has shown up in your life, or looking at the details of God’s creation in nature, or hearing the laughter of your friends, or even having deep conversations about Scripture. Whatever it is, make sure to focus some of your time doing that. Stir up your faith so the devil can't discourage you to the point where it dwindles. When your faith isn’t built up, it’s so much harder to actively fight against Satan.

The Helmet of Salvation
Next, Paul says to put on the helmet of salvation. Most people would argue that helmets are the most important part of any armor because when your head is damaged, nothing else functions the same. Paul is saying that having the right mindset towards your salvation is as important as a helmet. What does that mean? Firstly, it means trusting in your salvation. I’ve had many conversations with people who are not confident that they’re going to heaven when they die. If this is you, then let’s go back to the truth—the Word of God. Romans 10:9 says, “If you declare with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” If you’ve done this, then trust that you are saved because of the work of Jesus on the cross alone. It is also important that you meditate on your salvation. To meditate simply means to think deeply about something. Think often about the miracle that is your salvation. Sit in awe in God’s presence because of what He has done for you. Psalm 51:12 says, “Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me.” Meditating on the fact that you get to spend eternity in the presence of God will restore the joy of your salvation.

The Sword of the Spirit
You can’t go to battle without a sword. Paul says that the sword of the Spirit is the Word of God. We talked before about knowing the truth. That is so important, but why do we need to know God's Word? So we can wield it. Use Scripture to speak life into yourselves and others. When you’re anxious or afraid, remind yourself that God has not given you a spirit of fear but of power and of love and of a sound mind (2 Timothy 1:7). When your friend cannot seem to forgive herself/himself for the past, tell them that there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus (Romans 8:1). When your children are afraid to go to sleep because there might be monsters under the bed, speak over them Psalm 4:8 which says “In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, Lord, make me dwell in safety.” Know your Scripture and then go to battle with it just like Jesus did in Matthew 4. He showed us how to fight. Let’s use our swords.

Prayer
Lastly, Paul says this, “And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people” (Ephesians 6:8). Paul was not alone in telling us to pray. Jesus also said this, “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened” (Matthew 7:7-8). You get the mind-blowing privilege to talk to the perfect Creator of all. So pray and pray persistently. Pray about everything. Praise God for His goodness. Cry out to Him when life hits hard. Talk to Him about the details of your day. Knock and knock and knock on behalf of your friends and family.  Always pray for all of God’s people, and do it with confidence—because God will show up.

I recognize that none of this is groundbreaking information. But remember this: knowledge is only power if it’s applied. My prayer is that you would put this into practice in your life. That you would read God’s Word and memorize Scripture so you can battle with it. That you will seek to live a righteous life just like Jesus. That you would always be excited and ready to share the Good News with everyone. That you would work to stir up your faith and to remember the miracle that is your salvation. Because it is only with all this armor on and the power of the Holy Spirit that we can stand firm. That we can hold our ground against Satan and his evil army. Some days you might feel like you’re losing, but the fact that you’re aware of the battle means you’re fighting, and everyone is better off with you in the fight. Let’s go to war together.

Cover photo by Nitish Meena on Unsplash

© Copyright 2024. Unless otherwise noted, all Scripture quotations taken from The Holy Bible, New international Version® NIV® Copyright © 1973 1978 1984 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

Everything about what Christians believe is supernatural. Think about it. We believe that one God exists in three parts, that a young woman conceived a child by the work of the Holy Spirit, that Jesus, the very Son of God, lived a perfect life, died on a cross, and came back to life defeating death before ascending into heaven to sit at the right side of the throne of God where He is currently interceding on our behalf. Supernatural doesn’t feel like a big enough word to describe that reality. Everything about what we believe is supernatural, yet we know so little about the supernatural world and supernatural beings. And that’s exactly what Satan wants.

My goal is to make you aware of a cosmic battle that is happening right now. Why? Because being unaware of the spiritual realm means you’re vulnerable - vulnerable to the enemy’s attacks with no way to defend yourself, and that’s not what God wants for you. In this post, we’re going to talk about the supernatural realm and what spiritual warfare is. In our next article, we’ll talk about how to fight in the battle, and how God has shown us how to fight. This might seem ominous but read this encouraged because God has given all authority to His children. In Luke 10:19, Jesus says, “I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and to overcome all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm you.” With a mindset of victory, let’s get into it.

The Spiritual Realm
The spiritual realm is a reality beyond our physical world. We cannot see it, but it very much exists. When most people think of the spiritual realm, if they do at all, they think of heaven and angels with wings lounging around on clouds. I’m sorry to burst your bubble, but this couldn’t be less true. Prophets throughout Scripture have gotten glimpses of the spiritual realm (you can read Ezekiel 1 and Revelation 13 for an idea of what it looks like). Their usual response is to fall on their faces in awe because the beings that exist there are more terrifying and powerful than anything you and I have ever seen. The truth about the spiritual realm is this: It’s the place where God, angels, demons, and Satan reside, the beings in the spiritual realm interact with and influence everything in our material reality, and there’s a war going on there. That’s right. As you read this today, and every other day as you go about your life, a battle is being fought all around you. And what is the battle being fought over? You.

We’re At War
If there’s a war going on, then who’s fighting in it? First let’s talk about the good guys - God and His angels. They’re fighting to save us. From the beginning of time, God has wanted to be with us and love us. Sin separated us from Him, so He sent Jesus to die on our behalf. Jesus made those who would accept Him as Lord and Savior perfect in the eyes of God so we can be with Him. God and His angels are fighting for believers - protecting us and encouraging us in this life. They’re also fighting for unbelievers - working in their lives so that they will come to know the saving grace of God. Then there’s the bad guys. The bad guys are Satan and his demons. They hate God and they hate people. (More about their motive and tactics later.)

This war is different from every other war in history because both sides know who wins in the end. You see, it’s easy to see Satan as the opposite of God, but that could not be farther from the truth. Satan was once an angel. You can read his origin story in Ezekiel 28:11-14 and the story of his fall from heaven in verses 15-19 of that same chapter. Because Satan was once an angel, he will never come close to matching God’s power. So why is the war still going on, you might ask. The war will continue until as many people as possible come to know Jesus as Savior and Lord of their lives. When this happens Jesus will come back, ending the war. God hasn’t defeated Satan yet for our sake. Each and every person is a part of this war too. There are no neutral parties. Switzerland doesn’t exist. Either you’re fighting alongside God and His angels or you’re fighting for the powers of darkness, whether you realize it or not. More about this in part 2 coming out on May 12th.  

Know Your Enemy
In order to fight, we must first know our enemy. Let’s debunk some commonly believed lies about Satan. Firstly, Satan is not omnipresent. Satan is not God’s opposite, he does not have the same power that God does. One of the powers that Satan does not possess is the ability to be everywhere at once. His demons do most of his bidding. Satan does, however, have power. 1 John 5:19 says that “the whole world is under the control of the evil one”. He is influencing everything. Another common thought is that Satan is in hell. The truth is that he isn’t. 1 Peter 5:8 says, “Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.” Satan will be banished permanently to hell one day, but right now he’s free to move about the earth, to “prowl around”. And what is he doing as he moves about the earth? He is stealing, killing, and destroying (John 10:10). He knows that he loses in the end, so he’s going out with a bang. He hates God, and he hates everything God loves (us), so he’s going to cause as much trouble for us as he possibly can. So, how does he do that?  

Satan’s Tactics
Satan causes a lot of damage in this world, but he is also incredibly predictable. Here are some of his most used tactics:

1. Satan Deceives

2. Satan Distracts
3. Satan Divides
4. Satan Destroys
In closing, know that I’m praying for you. Praying that reading this has sparked within you a need to keep learning, so you can fight against the devil and his schemes because the war is happening. Come back for part 2 on May 12th, where we’ll talk about 1 Timothy 6:12 which states how we can “fight the good fight of the faith.”

Cover photo by Henrieke Fischer on Unsplash

© Copyright 2024. Unless otherwise noted, all Scripture quotations taken from The Holy Bible, New international Version® NIV® Copyright © 1973 1978 1984 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.