Category: Relationship

Finally, keeping an eternal perspective when dealing with political disagreements in your family is vital. While political issues are important, they are temporary and earthly concerns. In contrast, your relationship with God and your family members as God’s children has eternal significance. Jesus says in Matthew 6:33: “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” So, your primary focus should be on God’s kingdom and living in holy ways that honor your eternal God. This means prioritizing love, kindness, and unity over political victory or being right in an argument. Romans 14:19 offers wisdom for maintaining an eternal perspective: “Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification.” Instead of allowing political differences to create division, focus on what builds up your family and brings peace. Remembering that this world is not your ultimate home can help you to hold your political views loosely and cherish your relationships more deeply.

In conclusion, loving your family when you disagree politically is challenging but also an opportunity to live out your faith well. Ultimately, your faith in God transcends politics. God calls you to love your family like he does. That love is not contingent on agreeing with your family. It’s rooted in the identity you all share as children of God. By focusing on loving your family, you can preserve family harmony when you disagree politically and show those who know you God’s unifying love in action. Let your family relationships shine brightly as examples of God’s love overcoming all barriers – including political differences.

We wait for the billboard. The booming voice from the heavens. We want God to text us back in clear, grammatical sentences.

But his language is subtler—a quieter dialect.

His response is the sudden, irrational peace that cuts through your panic attack. The old, forgotten Bible verse pops into your head for no reason, landing right on the bruise. It’s the friend who calls out of the blue and says the exact thing you needed to hear.

God speaks through the Word. Through creation. Through people—the body of Christ, which is often just a bunch of other messed-up folks trying to listen.

Elijah, for instance, looked for God in the wind, the earthquake, and the fire. The big, loud, dramatic stuff. But God wasn’t in any of that. 1 Kings 19:12 says He was in the “still small voice.”

Are you listening for the earthquake and missing the whisper? The silence might be Him turning down the world’s volume so you can hear a frequency you’ve forgotten.

4. Can a Foundation Be Built in the dark?

When things are good, our faith is often built on the good things—the blessings, the feelings. It’s a fair-weather faith. It’s nice, but it’s not exactly stormproof.

Then the silence comes. The feelings vanish. The blessings feel like someone else’s story.

But trust me, this is where the real work happens. This is where your faith has to grow. It’s no longer built on what God does, but on who He is. Period.

Remember Job, after losing everything, sits in the ultimate silence. And he says this gut-wrenching thing: in Job 13:15, “Though he slay me, yet will I trust in him…” 

Judging by the statement, “Though he slay me,” it proves that Job is not trusting in a rescue. He’s trusting in a character. A character he can’t see or feel right then. That kind of faith isn’t built in the sunshine. It’s forged in the dark. It’s a foundation of bedrock. And once you have it, well… not much can truly shake you again.

So, the silence is the construction site.

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One way my autoimmune illness has changed my perspective on life is that I don’t need to be afraid to be myself. For so long, I conformed to what everyone else wanted of me. If I was supposed to be one way, then I acted this way, or if I was supposed to like something when I didn’t, I was supposed to say I did just to be accepted. For too long, I was someone I wasn’t. I was someone who let other people walk over me and control me, but in an empowering way, my autoimmune illness gave me the capacity to be myself and to stand up for myself again. 

Not only in doctors’ offices when they shrugged my symptoms off as being “anxiety,” but also when individuals were being mean to me. I think I was hoping someone else would stand up for me for too long, but that person never came. I realized I had to be this person for myself. Now, I also stand up for my family members when doctors or others want to say something that is not right or insulting. The days of being passive are gone, as they never served me well. 

As Christians, we are not called to be chameleons or to be rugs for people to walk over. God created us uniquely and He has a special purpose for each of our lives (Psalm 139:14; Jeremiah 29:11). We never need to be someone we are not to appease others, nor do we need to let others walk over us. It is a sad reality that it took a diagnosis of an autoimmune illness before it got me to change this perspective on my life. Nonetheless, I’m thankful this change has occurred, as it has helped me tremendously in life. 

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Jean Lim Flores, author, wife, and blessed mother to a sweet girl, writes, “At the start of this new school year, what could be better than equipping my daughter with the same tools that the Apostle Paul preached to encourage character building and fruitfulness in spirit as she encounters challenging relationships or circumstances at school, church, and beyond.” 

“This set of spiritual virtues,” describes Flores, “which Paul refers to as the fruit of the Holy Spirit, are characteristics (Galatians 5:22-23) that empower believers to live in unity and be more like Jesus,  and can grow like fruit on trees—when our children’s lives are rooted in Christ and watered by faith.”

Flores continues that, “More than the latest new backpack with all the bells and whistles, a fancy outfit, shiny new shoes or a case full of new pencils, Ephesians 6:10 outlines a different outfit called the ‘Armor of God’ that can equip and gird our children in their daily life with spiritual gear that can protect them against enemy schemes, oftentimes covered during Vacation Bible School or in Sunday School, why not apply it to the notion of ‘Back to School’ as well?” 

“As a parent,” writes Flores, “I have confidence that speaking this simple prayer each day with our children as they are on their way to school will bless them to be strong, courageous, respectful, and kind human beings. It will empower them for their everyday battles.” 

“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. 

In Jesus’ Name, 

Amen.

4. Hide God’s word in your kids’ hearts to draw from for peace and purpose.

When our two oldest daughters were in elementary school, they attended AWANAS at our local church during the summer months. There, they memorized Scripture verses, earning rewards while hiding God’s word in their hearts.

At times when we aren’t around, we can trust that God’s word in their heart will speak to them and help them in times of need. As Hebrews 4:12 assures, “For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and Spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.”

Just like television shows and films show what someone says to a person and speak to them in making decisions, we can count on the living word of God to talk to our children, bringing peace and purpose into their situations.

While at school, during times of frustration, temptations, and stress, we can count on it to lead and guide them in their responses and actions.

Deuteronomy 6:6-9 urges, “These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down, and when you get up. Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates.”

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At the end of every day, I pray for Jesus to return because I know this is when everything will finally be made right. Jesus will return and destroy all His enemies under His feet, including death. In His Heavenly Kingdom, we will be reunited with our loved ones, and nobody will take away our joy. Even though this prayer has not been answered yet, I know God hears it. 

One day, all of us as believers will be with the Lord in Heaven. We will be with our loved ones who have passed away, including our moms. Things will be just as God wanted them to be. Later, God will create the New Heaven and New Earth, which will be our eternal home (Revelation 21). Once we are finally in our eternal home, we will never have to worry about being separated from our loved ones again. Praise be to God forever.

“Dear Jesus, I pray for Your Kingdom to come. I don’t want to live on this earth anymore as the sorrow of my heart is too strong. I miss my mom and want to see her again. May Your Kingdom come swiftly, and I’ll be at home with You soon, Lord. Until then, help me to stay strong and give me comfort. In Your wonderful Name, I pray, Amen.” 

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What a damaging lie. Feelings of worthlessness lead many to self-destructive behaviors, addictions, and sometimes suicide. You’re worth the perfect blood of the Lord Jesus Christ. He died for all so that all would have the chance to live.  

We’re each created in the image of God (Genesis 1:27). As His image bearers, we’re precious in His sight. He desires that all would repent and believe.

Once we place our trust in Jesus Christ, God sees us through His righteousness.

Truth: You’re God’s beloved and priceless child (Ephesians 5:1; Colossians 3:12; 1 John 3:2).

6. Life is hopeless.

Hopelessness can fill us when we face what seem like insurmountable problems. A loved one has a terminal disease. Your marriage is dissolved. A child makes devastating choices. Dreams become unreachable, or there’s unrelenting depression.

How do we find hope when it seems like all hope is gone? Merriam-Webster defines hopelessness as “having no expectation of good or success; not susceptible to remedy; or incapable of redemption or improvement.” It’s a word that conveys a dead end; it’s over.

But in God’s kingdom, there’s no “dead end.” There will be eternal glory and joy. Paul, New Testament writer, shared this encouragement: “Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal” (2 Corinthians 4:16-18 NIV). We can have hope when we fix our eyes on Jesus.

There may be a situation where there is no hope of change, but we cling to an eternal hope that never changes. God gave John, Jesus’s closest disciple, this message: “He will wipe away 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’ (Revelation 21:4 NIV).

Truth: In Jesus, we always have hope.

7. It’s too late.

Sometimes we think, “I’m too old,” “I missed my chance,” “I made too many mistakes,” or “one big mistake,” and now we can’t serve God or be fulfilled.

God’s in the business of redemption. Moses made a big mistake, spent forty years in the wilderness, and at age eighty was used by God to lead the nation of Israel out of slavery.

Peter denied Jesus three times. Jesus restored him and used him to help build His church and change the world.

The thief on the cross believed in Jesus’ right before he died, and Jesus said, “…today you will be with me in paradise” (Luke 23:43 NIV).

As long as we’re alive and able to think, it’s not too late to choose to believe in and follow Jesus Christ. At any point, we’re free to trust Him, listen to Him, and obey His leading. We can give Him whatever time we have left on this earth. God’s math is not the same as ours. He takes five loaves and two fish and feeds thousands. In the parable of the Workers in the Vineyard, the workers hired at the end of the day receive the same pay as those hired in the morning. God takes whatever we have to give Him and multiplies it for kingdom use.

Truth: Now is the time to follow Jesus.

God doesn’t want His children to be trapped in lies. We can choose to reject Satan’s lies, focus on God’s truth, and live in freedom.

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Finally, serving people with humility can open doors for Christ’s love to flow from our lives into their lives. Being humble shows spiritual strength at work. When Jesus washed his disciples’ feet in John 13, he showed that humbly serving others is the way to true greatness in God’s kingdom. Jesus tells them in John 13:14: “Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet.” Serving with humility involves putting other people’s needs ahead of our own. We can do so by volunteering at a community organization, helping with behind-the-scenes tasks at church, or doing extra chores at home without complaining. It’s important to serve with the pure motives of just showing people Christ’s love, without expecting anything in return. Philippians 2:3-4 reminds us: “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.” When we serve like this, we reflect how Jesus served people with humility during his life on earth. As Jesus says in Mark 10:45: “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” Service with humility points people to Jesus instead of to us, which helps them find hope!

In conclusion, our fallen world is full of pain, but we can point people to hope by showing them Christ’s love. Jesus calls us to share his love whenever we have opportunities to do so. Every thoughtful gesture we do faithfully as we try to share Christ’s love matters. Jesus will use all of our faithful efforts to reach out to hurting people with his love!

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Work is part of God’s good design: “The Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it.” (Genesis 2:15)

After creating our world, God placed the first human, Adam, in the Garden of Eden “to work it and take care of it.” God designed us to work, not to be idle, so working hard is good. From the very beginning of creation, God trusted us with the important responsibility of taking care of his creation. Originally – in Eden, before the world’s fall – the work Adam and his wife Eve did was enjoyable and fulfilling for them. Their labor served a clear purpose, which was to care for the garden’s beautiful life. Then after sin corrupted our world, our experience with work changed. Genesis 3:17-19 records that after Adam and Eve sinned, God said work would become “painful toil” (verse 17). So now, work can be stressful for us. But the underlying dignity of work still exists. God’s original plan for work as a way for us to care for his world is still important. Every time we do any kind of work, we’re participating in that original calling from God. 

Jesus is our ultimate boss: “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.” (Colossians 3:23-24)

It’s easy to see our boss, clients, or customers as the people we ultimately work for. But the Bible reminds us that while we may have earthly supervisors, our ultimate boss is Jesus Christ. When we work wholeheartedly, we’re working as an act of service to God. It doesn’t matter whether or not our human supervisors notice or appreciate our efforts, because God does. Even if we’re working in environments where we’re not being recognized or are being criticized, we can still work faithfully because we’re motivated by our love for Jesus. When we focus on our ultimate boss, we can be inspired to work as a way to worship. Every task we do in our everyday labor can be an offering to God, regardless of how important the people who supervise us think it is.

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Not having my own plans work out felt like a form of suffering. After much time, I began to grow in my relationship with God. The more I read my Bible and prayed, the more I saw that God was actually behind everything. His heart is always good and loving towards me.  

At 23 years old, I delivered my first baby. I had an unexpected C-section with complications from the medication. Nursing was hard, and he was a very fussy baby. As a new mom, I struggled to understand why motherhood was so hard. There were a lot of tears, not just from the baby. Postpartum depression also showed up during this time, and I wasn’t prepared for any of it. I learned about God’s faithfulness, care, and love through that time.

Out of desperation, I started reading my Bible more and studying scripture. Although none of my motherhood plans worked out, I grew in my dependency on God, which has led me to a place of peace today.

Over the last twenty years, God has shown up in my life through every twist and turn. If I were to go back to that 23-year-old self, I would tell her a few things about God. The main thing I would say to her would be this:

God’s plans for our lives are always good; we can trust Him.

Although God felt very much absent during that time, and honestly, God has felt absent at other times as well, He isn’t absent. Just because I couldn’t see how everything would work out didn’t mean that God had forgotten about me, didn’t care for me, or abandoned me. The most comfort I’ve received through those times comes from studying the Bible.

The Bible has countless stories of God working in and through normal people. Story after story tells how God used imperfect people to accomplish His plan. Often, these people didn’t see the big picture. Rarely did they experience the fruit of their faith or get answers to their questions.

But their stories in the Bible encourage us to know that God is still writing our own stories and that we are part of a bigger plan that extends beyond us. Let’s look at seven stories to see how God was always working behind the scenes for them. This can also give us hope that God is working in our lives.

1. Abraham & Sarah: God is working behind the scenes through waiting.

Waiting can feel like God has left us. It is hard to keep praying when prayers go unanswered, lives are on hold, and pain lingers. In the story of Abraham and Sarah, we see a couple struggle through decades of infertility. Their waiting was marked by faith (Hebrews 11:8-12), but I’m sure waiting wasn’t easy. While God seemed absent in their waiting, God was working. At the right time and in the right way, their son Isaac was born. God never left them, and as you read their story in Genesis 12-16, you can see how God stays with us in our waiting.

2. Moses: God is working behind the scenes through rejection.

God’s plan for Moses’ life took a lot of time. If you know Moses’ story, you know he was ready to lead the people out of slavery to the Promised Land at the age of 40. Instead, Moses faced rejection and ended up living the next forty years in the wilderness. In those years, God was not only with him but also preparing him. The forty years Moses spent tending sheep were so that God could prepare him to be the shepherd of Israel. In Exodus 1-5, Moses’ story shows us how God always works to redeem, even if we face rejection.

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3. Joseph: God is working behind the scenes through silence.

No other character in the Old Testament had more twists and turns than Joseph. Sold into slavery as a teenager, sent to prison on false charges, forgotten and rejected for two years, Joseph probably thought God had forgotten him. Joseph finally rose to power and ended up saving his entire family from starvation. If Joseph only looked at his circumstances, he would have agreed that God seemed to have left him.

In Genesis 39:2, we read these words: “The Lord was with Joseph…” God was still with Joseph during all of his trials. At the end of his life, Joseph recognized God’s hand and said: “As for you, [meaning his brothers who sold him into slavery] you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good, to bring it about that many people should be kept alive, as they are today.” (ESV) Genesis 50:20. God is working, even if we don’t feel or hear Him. God works it all for His glory and our good.

4. Job: God is working behind the scenes through suffering.

Although Joseph surely suffered, no one can argue that Job suffered more. Job suffered the loss of his children, wealth, and health. In all of this, Job did not deny God or curse Him. Job did question God and lamented the sorrow-filled life God had allowed. But in the end, Job provides us a great example of persevering through suffering. We can bring our questions, doubts, and sorrows to God. As we do so, we can trust, like Job, that God is still in control and loves us. We do not suffer alone. We might never get the answers to “why” suffering happens, but we can seek out the “Who.” Who God is and His majesty and love help give our hearts peace when we know God is never off His throne.

5. Ruth: God is working behind the scenes through the ordinary.

The Book of Ruth tells the story of two women. Ruth’s life was filled with sorrow and ordinary living. Ruth was simply going to the field to help provide food for herself and her mother-in-law when God orchestrated salvation for both of them. The two women were widows, but Ruth did not complain or abandon Naomi. Instead, Ruth was faithful in doing ordinary things. As Ruth did what she was supposed to do, God wove her path to a new family. God restored not only Ruth’s family but Naomi’s family as well. God can use our ordinary service for His glory, and we might not ever see how He worked everything out!

6. Esther: God is working behind the scenes through providence.

Throughout the entire book of Esther, God’s name is never mentioned. Instead, we read a story of “happen-chance” or “coincidences” that leave us feeling like there is no way these things “just happened.” God’s fingerprints are all over Esther’s story. The drama unfolds and we see God’s invisible hand saving His people and using an ordinary girl and her uncle to do so. Esther’s story is a great encouragement to us.  Even if no one acknowledges God’s working behind the scenes, He is! Reading the Book of Easter can give us encouragement to trust that God’s plan will go forth.

7. Daniel: God is working behind the scenes through prayer.

Daniel experienced a powerful answer to his prayer in Daniel 10:12. An angel came to Daniel after he had prayed. Here is what Daniel 10:12 says: “Then he [the angel] said to me, “Fear not, Daniel, for from the first day that you set your heart to understand and humbled yourself before your God, your words have been heard, and I have come because of your words.” God was working through Daniel’s prayers! What great comfort to know that God uses our prayers to work out His plan. This should remind us that our prayers are never wasted.

As we walk through this life, there will be moments when life is not turning out like we expected. Disappointment might be just around the corner. Even in this, God is working! God’s redemption, plan, and purpose always prevail. You can read about how this plays out specifically in Moses’s life by reading my book, I Didn’t Sign Up for This. Discover God’s goodness in your own story today.

Photo Credit: ©Getty Images/Uwe Krejci 

Sarah E. Frazer is a writer, Bible study mentor, wife of Jason, and mother of five. With a background in missionary work, Sarah encourages the weary woman to find peace in Jesus. She is a regular contributor to the Proverbs 31 First 5 app writing team as well as a featured writer for Crosswalk.com. Her favorite place to hang out is Instagram at @sarah_e_frazer.

It’s sad to realize that the primary form of communication in our world today seems to be through online posts, mainly because social media can be a blessing or a curse, depending on how we as Christians participate and use it in our lives. 

We can see and utilize it as an opportunity to love others by encouraging them, praying for them, sympathizing, empathizing, comforting and supporting others through the words, songs, and videos we post.

Or, on the other hand, if we’re not focused on speaking with love from a heart that’s surrendered to God, we can tear down, hurt, taunt, make fun of, and destroy others through our actions.

But being a Christian comes with God-given responsibilities, such as loving others. It’s pretty much the benchmark and theme of who we are called to be and known for on this earth.

After all, Jesus said in John 13:34 “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.”

So, if we discover that we’re not loving one another online and known for our love towards each other, then we’re falling short of who God has called us to be on earth.  Jesus says in John 13:35, “By this everyone will know that you are My disciples, if you love one another.”

As well, what does that say about our faith and our relationship with God?  If we’re falling short, we need to reassess how we’re interacting with individuals online about what is behind our communications, keeping us from being known for our love for one another.

Don’t Do These 6 Things Online

In 1 Corinthians 16:14, the Apostle Paul urges us to “Do everything in love.”

His call, along with the Apostle Peter’s in 1 Peter 4:8 reminds us “Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.”

Still, as Christians, some of us can get swept up pretty fast in the potential of speaking to a wide audience, the thrill of voicing our opinions, and the various online dramas. Still, we want to remember Jesus’ words and keep love at the forefront of our online presence. Following is a Christian’s guide to speaking with love online, with six things to avoid doing.

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1. Don’t quarrel online.

Unbelievers like to point out how believers seem to be constantly arguing, fighting, and disputing issues between themselves. To the world around us, it doesn’t come across as being very loving and seems to only serve as a very poor witness to those who don’t know Christ.

1 Corinthians 1:11, “My brothers and sisters, some from Chloe’s household have informed me that there are quarrels among you”

It’s too easy for our opinions expressed online, whether stating a belief, thought, or response to someone else’s post, that our words are misunderstood. It happens all the time when a person’s words, meant to be thoughtful, are challenged or belittled, leading to an online war of words.

2 Timothy 2:14 urges us to “Keep reminding God’s people of these things. Warn them before God against quarreling about words; it is of no value, and only ruins those who listen.”

Romans 16:17-18 warns “I urge you, brothers and sisters, to watch out for those who cause divisions and put obstacles in your way that are contrary to the teaching you have learned. Keep away from them. For such people are not serving our Lord Christ, but their own appetites. By smooth talk and flattery they deceive the minds of naive people.”

If we read something or see a post that rubs us the wrong way, Proverb 10:19 encourages “When there are many words, wrongdoing is unavoidable, But one who restrains his lips is wise” (NASB).

Paul reminds us, too, in Ephesians 4:29 “Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.”

As Christians, we are given the ministry of reconciliation, so whenever we seek to cause division rather than reconcile with people, we are out of the will of God. 2 Corinthians 5:18 All this is from God, who reconciled us to Himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation.”

Photo Credit: ©Getty Images/Yana Iskayeva

2. Don’t expose others’ sins online.

When we hear of individuals entrapped in sin, we don’t want to expose their sin publicly, offering them up to public ridicule. Or spread it around online by pointing it out, or even asking publicly for prayer, unless the person asks first publicly for prayers concerning their situation. 

As Galatians 6:1 urges, “Brothers and sisters, if someone is caught in a sin, you who live by the Spirit should restore that person gently. But watch yourselves, or you also may be tempted.”

It’s wise to consider how we would want others to respond to us, or to our family, friends, and neighbors, if caught in sin. After all, haven’t we all sinned, as 1 John 1:10 explains “If we claim we have not sinned, we make Him out to be a liar and His word is not in us.”

As Romans 3:23 reminds us, “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.”

Likewise, if someone sends us a private message that’s unkind or upsets us, God doesn’t want us to post openly what they said to us privately, revealing their sin to others. It’s spiritual immaturity to do so and often done to bring shame upon one another.

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3. Don’t gossip and spread rumors online.

With the immediacy of online postings, it seems people can’t wait to share the latest news, whether good or bad, and individuals can wait to read the latest scoop.

But James 3:5-6 warns of the danger of an unbridled tongue, “Likewise, the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark. The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole body, sets the whole course of one’s life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell”

So small, yet so powerful, as James 3:8 describes, “But no human being can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison.”

In our world today, people are much more concerned about what they eat and put into their mouths, than what comes out of it, which sadly has created hostile and unfriendly online cultures, even in some Christian circles, where love is to be demonstrated.

Jesus cut right to the truth in exposing this sin of the mouth: “What goes into someone’s mouth does not defile them, but what comes out of their mouth, that is what defiles them” (Matthew 15:11).

Gossip and rumors are void of love and only bring heartache, as Proverbs 16:28 describes, “A perverse person stirs up conflict, and a gossip separates close friends.”

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4. Don’t slander individuals online.

If we have a beef with someone, addressing it online is not where we should take our grievances. Even if we believe what we are saying is true, it’s wise to choose to love others over our own feelings. 

James 4:11 warns, “Brothers and sisters, do not slander one another. Anyone who speaks against a brother or sister or judges them speaks against the law and judges it. When you judge the law, you are not keeping it, but sitting in judgment on it.”

Over-and-over again, God’s word warns us, as Paul does in Ephesians 4:31 “Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice.”

Again, because slander is a very serious sin even though many Christians nowadays don’t seem to believe it is, Colossians 3:8 warns, “But now you must also rid yourselves of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips.”

When wanting to slander someone, we can instead follow Hebrews 4:12, to let God’s words judge the thoughts and attitudes of our hearts. “For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.”

Photo credi: @Pexels/Fernando Arco

5. Don’t openly correct others online.  

Sometimes the Holy Spirit nudges us to reach out and address someone about a post on social media. Rather than offer our unsolicited corrections publicly, we can contact them privately through a gentle, loving approach. 

If our intention is truly to help them, then we don’t want to seem like we’re challenging or criticizing them in any way, or set off a war of words and posts where friends take sides and feel like they have to defend them.

Although I haven’t found this approach to be all that effective, following God’s leading is still to be taken seriously and to follow, even if we don’t see the results hoped for. It’s also better than starting a huge online war of words.

One Christian friend approached, posted photos and captions making fun and belittling people’s in the news appearances. Reaching out privately from one believer to another, mentioning his posts and how, as a Christian, it might seem unloving. Sadly, he didn’t really respond and also didn’t change his postings.

Hebrews 10:24 encourages “And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.”

A few other times, I’ve privately reached out to Christian friends and family who’ve posted provocative photos, asking if they might consider removing them. As well, they didn’t respond either privately or by removing the images.

Although it’s uncomfortable to reach out to others, it’s important for us personally, to follow the leading of the Holy Spirit and trust Him to work in the lives of those we reach out to.

It’s also biblical to do, as the Apostle Paul wrote in 2 Timothy 3:16, “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness.”

Photo Credit: ©Getty Images/ Oscar Wong

6. Don’t bully others online.

Sadly, too many believers will post about how someone has offended them, looking, it seems, to gather support for themselves, asking people to join them to berate and put the offender in their place. 

But ganging up on those who have hurt us goes against what Paul urges us to do in Galatians 5:14 to, “Love your neighbor as yourself.”

                         

As well, 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 sums it up: “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.  It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.  Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.  It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.”

Photo credit: © Getty Images/whiteson

Lynette Kittle is married with four daughters. She enjoys writing about faith, marriage, parenting, relationships, and life. Her writing has been published by Focus on the Family, Decision, Today’s Christian Woman, kirkcameron.com, Ungrind.org, StartMarriageRight.com, and more. She has a M.A. in Communication from Regent University and serves as associate producer for Soul Check TV.

Originally published Friday, 22 August 2025.

It’s true! Laughter is some of the best medicine. While you definitely want to experience this with your teen, this article is about you and your spouse. And oftentimes, laughter is the last thing we tend to share with one another. That and the idea that “this too shall pass”. Because it will, barring a critical issue evolving with your teenager, many of the tense moments are around smaller things that will be worked through.

Learning to laugh about them is one thing. First, we have to not take them so seriously as to redirect our angst against our spouse. That is really, really important! How do we do this? I have no idea. I just know it’s a good thing when it happens. How’s that for helpful? Keep it in the back of your mind. Try to allow your emotional reactions to dissipate in exchange for objective thinking. Don’t be afraid to cast a wink at your spouse in the height of things so you can remember to laugh later.

Raising teenagers? It’s not for the faint of heart. But it can be extremely rewarding, not just as parents, but as married couples. Join forces, brave souls! Ride into the fray with the intent not to forget the one at your side! Raise your banners high and prepare for battle! Draw your swords and—no. Fine. I’m being extreme.

The point is, we need our spouses. The last thing we want to do is damage our relationship with each other while trying to preserve our relationship with our teen. So communicate, spend time together, prioritize each other, share thoughts and emotions, and don’t criticize the other—even if they are overreacting.

And just imagine…one of these days, not long in the future, you’ll be rocking on your front porch, coffee in hand, talking about the “good ol’ days” when your phone rings, and your now adult child calls to ask you: “What do I do? My teenager is driving us nuts!”

Not having my own plans work out felt like a form of suffering. After much time, I began to grow in my relationship with God. The more I read my Bible and prayed, the more I saw that God was actually behind everything. His heart is always good and loving towards me.  

At 23 years old, I delivered my first baby. I had an unexpected C-section with complications from the medication. Nursing was hard, and he was a very fussy baby. As a new mom, I struggled to understand why motherhood was so hard. There were a lot of tears, not just from the baby. Postpartum depression also showed up during this time, and I wasn’t prepared for any of it. I learned about God’s faithfulness, care, and love through that time.

Out of desperation, I started reading my Bible more and studying scripture. Although none of my motherhood plans worked out, I grew in my dependency on God, which has led me to a place of peace today.

Over the last twenty years, God has shown up in my life through every twist and turn. If I were to go back to that 23-year-old self, I would tell her a few things about God. The main thing I would say to her would be this:

God’s plans for our lives are always good; we can trust Him.

Although God felt very much absent during that time, and honestly, God has felt absent at other times as well, He isn’t absent. Just because I couldn’t see how everything would work out didn’t mean that God had forgotten about me, didn’t care for me, or abandoned me. The most comfort I’ve received through those times comes from studying the Bible.

The Bible has countless stories of God working in and through normal people. Story after story tells how God used imperfect people to accomplish His plan. Often, these people didn’t see the big picture. Rarely did they experience the fruit of their faith or get answers to their questions.

But their stories in the Bible encourage us to know that God is still writing our own stories and that we are part of a bigger plan that extends beyond us. Let’s look at seven stories to see how God was always working behind the scenes for them. This can also give us hope that God is working in our lives.

1. Abraham & Sarah: God is working behind the scenes through waiting.

Waiting can feel like God has left us. It is hard to keep praying when prayers go unanswered, lives are on hold, and pain lingers. In the story of Abraham and Sarah, we see a couple struggle through decades of infertility. Their waiting was marked by faith (Hebrews 11:8-12), but I’m sure waiting wasn’t easy. While God seemed absent in their waiting, God was working. At the right time and in the right way, their son Isaac was born. God never left them, and as you read their story in Genesis 12-16, you can see how God stays with us in our waiting.

2. Moses: God is working behind the scenes through rejection.

God’s plan for Moses’ life took a lot of time. If you know Moses’ story, you know he was ready to lead the people out of slavery to the Promised Land at the age of 40. Instead, Moses faced rejection and ended up living the next forty years in the wilderness. In those years, God was not only with him but also preparing him. The forty years Moses spent tending sheep were so that God could prepare him to be the shepherd of Israel. In Exodus 1-5, Moses’ story shows us how God always works to redeem, even if we face rejection.

Photo Credit: ©Getty Images/franckreporter  

3. Joseph: God is working behind the scenes through silence.

No other character in the Old Testament had more twists and turns than Joseph. Sold into slavery as a teenager, sent to prison on false charges, forgotten and rejected for two years, Joseph probably thought God had forgotten him. Joseph finally rose to power and ended up saving his entire family from starvation. If Joseph only looked at his circumstances, he would have agreed that God seemed to have left him.

In Genesis 39:2, we read these words: “The Lord was with Joseph…” God was still with Joseph during all of his trials. At the end of his life, Joseph recognized God’s hand and said: “As for you, [meaning his brothers who sold him into slavery] you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good, to bring it about that many people should be kept alive, as they are today.” (ESV) Genesis 50:20. God is working, even if we don’t feel or hear Him. God works it all for His glory and our good.

4. Job: God is working behind the scenes through suffering.

Although Joseph surely suffered, no one can argue that Job suffered more. Job suffered the loss of his children, wealth, and health. In all of this, Job did not deny God or curse Him. Job did question God and lamented the sorrow-filled life God had allowed. But in the end, Job provides us a great example of persevering through suffering. We can bring our questions, doubts, and sorrows to God. As we do so, we can trust, like Job, that God is still in control and loves us. We do not suffer alone. We might never get the answers to “why” suffering happens, but we can seek out the “Who.” Who God is and His majesty and love help give our hearts peace when we know God is never off His throne.

5. Ruth: God is working behind the scenes through the ordinary.

The Book of Ruth tells the story of two women. Ruth’s life was filled with sorrow and ordinary living. Ruth was simply going to the field to help provide food for herself and her mother-in-law when God orchestrated salvation for both of them. The two women were widows, but Ruth did not complain or abandon Naomi. Instead, Ruth was faithful in doing ordinary things. As Ruth did what she was supposed to do, God wove her path to a new family. God restored not only Ruth’s family but Naomi’s family as well. God can use our ordinary service for His glory, and we might not ever see how He worked everything out!

6. Esther: God is working behind the scenes through providence.

Throughout the entire book of Esther, God’s name is never mentioned. Instead, we read a story of “happen-chance” or “coincidences” that leave us feeling like there is no way these things “just happened.” God’s fingerprints are all over Esther’s story. The drama unfolds and we see God’s invisible hand saving His people and using an ordinary girl and her uncle to do so. Esther’s story is a great encouragement to us.  Even if no one acknowledges God’s working behind the scenes, He is! Reading the Book of Easter can give us encouragement to trust that God’s plan will go forth.

7. Daniel: God is working behind the scenes through prayer.

Daniel experienced a powerful answer to his prayer in Daniel 10:12. An angel came to Daniel after he had prayed. Here is what Daniel 10:12 says: “Then he [the angel] said to me, “Fear not, Daniel, for from the first day that you set your heart to understand and humbled yourself before your God, your words have been heard, and I have come because of your words.” God was working through Daniel’s prayers! What great comfort to know that God uses our prayers to work out His plan. This should remind us that our prayers are never wasted.

As we walk through this life, there will be moments when life is not turning out like we expected. Disappointment might be just around the corner. Even in this, God is working! God’s redemption, plan, and purpose always prevail. You can read about how this plays out specifically in Moses’s life by reading my book, I Didn’t Sign Up for This. Discover God’s goodness in your own story today.

Photo Credit: ©Getty Images/Uwe Krejci 

Sarah E. Frazer is a writer, Bible study mentor, wife of Jason, and mother of five. With a background in missionary work, Sarah encourages the weary woman to find peace in Jesus. She is a regular contributor to the Proverbs 31 First 5 app writing team as well as a featured writer for Crosswalk.com. Her favorite place to hang out is Instagram at @sarah_e_frazer.

It can be really easy to get overwhelmed and frustrated when things aren’t going well. First, you are going to need to have grace for yourself. Your schedule and routines change right along with your teens. They will likely need more of you in some ways. They may be pulling away from you in others. This is normal.

You will need to give them grace, too. Their brains are changing fast and adjusting to a new school year, and new teachers and new people will be tough on them and may not bring out the best in them either. Allow for grace when things don’t go well. Breathe. Give yourself a time-out. Let them take one too. Regroup when you need to. Call a family meeting and talk it out. It is just fine to keep it chill on the weekends if you can, allow them extra downtime, a little extra sleep on the weekends, and maybe even less responsibility around the house for a bit if needed.

In the end, don’t forget to pray. Pray with and for them. Give it to God and remind them that He is there with them every step of the way.

As an educator I see your kids working through their day like champs. As a parent, like you I see them often collapse at my door at the end of that day. Remember you want your home to be a haven for them where they can just be themselves but also where they can grow in independence and use those great skills they are learning about life.

A new school year is a great place to regroup and let your teens find their voices. They are leveling up each year, which is a big deal. Remember, you’ve got this. And when you don’t? All the grace and flexibility for you, too, my friend. And God has got you, too.

Find Amy Betters-Midtvedt’s book You’ll Make It (and They Will Too): Everything No One Talks About When You’re Parenting Teens here!

Learn more: 

A lifeline of hope for parents of teens who feel adrift on the real and raw parenting journey, presented with wisdom and faith—and a touch of candid humor—from seasoned educator, mother, and Today Parenting contributor Amy Betters-Midtvedt.

“Parenting teens doesn’t come with a manual, but this book comes as close to one as I’ve ever read.”—New York Times bestselling author Rachel Macy Stafford.

As a mom with five kids ages twelve to twenty-two living at home, Amy Betters-Midtvedt found that parenting teens challenged everything she thought it meant to be a “good” mom. But in the unraveling came the building of something new and more beautiful than she could have imagined: an incredible sense of love, hope, joy, and relationship—even in the mess.

Related Resource: Exposing the Lost Landscape of Higher Education

In this episode of Christian Parent, Crazy World, Catherine delves into the critical question of how higher education is leading Christian kids away from their faith. Her special guest, David Richardson, brings a unique perspective on the landscape of higher education. With over 32 years of experience working with college and university professors, Dave sheds light on the challenges faced by Christian youth in academic settings. As parents grapple with the decision to send their children to secular institutions, Catherine and Dave offer valuable insights into understanding the challenges faced by Christian youth in higher education. By addressing the disconnect between faith and academia, this episode aims to equip parents with the knowledge and tools to support their children’s faith journey in an increasingly secular world. Listen below! Be sure to subscribe to Christian Parent, Crazy World on Apple or Spotify so you never miss an episode!

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“Hey, daddy, watch this!” The bold declaration every child screams right before they do that miraculous stunt only a dad would be proud of. If you are a parent, you have likely had to stop everything you are doing to look up, give that little one your full attention, and show some sort of recognition of how enamored you are with their skills and talents.

Are we really any different? While we may not always seek the accolades of our earthly fathers, as believers, our hearts yearn for the approval and attention of our Heavenly Father. That’s because we were created in a way that longs to intimately know our God (Jeremiah 29:13), and we desperately seek His acceptance; it’s innate in all of us (Romans 15:7). In other words, we are all His children just screaming from the deepest desires of our hearts, “Dad, watch this! Did you see me? I am doing this for you. Aren’t you proud of me?”

But, what about the times when you are striving to do “all the right things” and loudly (or maybe quietly) yearning for God’s full-on attention, only to be met with the sting of silence or worse yet, the feeling of harsh rejection?

The Truth About Dark Seasons 

Let’s address the issue of wavering faith, first. You know the times when faith feels forced, uncomfortable, lacks authenticity, or seems to be spiraling out of control. We’ve all been there. Maybe you are there now. It’s those strange seasons when God appears distant or life becomes so burdensome, hope gets lost in the shuffle of circumstances.

Just because we are Christ-followers doesn’t mean we automatically live “joyfully” ever after, making impacts wherever we go, glorifying God, and never doubt or question our faith. In fact, it is often in these times when we are demanding God’s attention that two things generally happen. We are quietly growing spiritually (even if it doesn’t feel like it) and we gain the attraction of the deceiver!

Darling friend, if you find yourself in a dark season, wholeheartedly seeking God to no avail, I invite you to grab your Bible and sit with me. You aren’t alone, and I don’t say that lightly, because I am in this dark season with you. It’s tough, I know, you can admit that. But together, let’s have a heart-to-heart and discover three insightful truths that may just set your soul free!

Photo Credit: ©Getty Images/Matt Henry Gunther

1. God Is Still Writing Your Story and Will Use It for Good

In full transparency, I haven’t written much in this space. Not because I don’t enjoy writing and working with the most amazing editors ever (truly they are), but because I didn’t want to come across as a phony, a fake, or worse yet, a lukewarm Christian. After all, who am I to share on something so personal when my own faith is so shaky?

Sure, my faith has had its fair share of ups and downs lately, but the enemy has a unique way of attacking us, and for me, he got to the heart of the issue – my motherhood. The past three years have been rough with our oldest daughter.  Wounds have been acquired, scars formed, and unfortunately, guilt and shame have become a part of her story, my story, our family’s story. My heart has been shattered in ways I can’t even begin to explain. It’s been a lot. And while I know there is a sweet place for redemption in her story (and all of ours), the hurtful actions have shaken my faith a bit – okay, a lot.

Life is hard, there is no doubt. However, the truth is that we are currently living in a good vs. evil story. Some chapters of this life will come with joy and heavy applause from the Father, while other chapters will have us on our knees begging for God to meet us in the puddle of tears on the floor, pleading for answers, wisdom, discernment, hope – anything. However, what we must be mindful of is that God isn’t our “happily ever after,” He is our sole reason for our very existence because He is the One with the pen, writing each page of your story with intention, on purpose. He is the Author who takes great pride as He carefully writes the pages of your life. Yes, sometimes those pages are messy, and the enemy weasels his way in.  But God can, and will, use every part and every season to showcase His love, redemption, mercy, and grace (Hebrews 12:2, Philippians 1:6, and Revelation 22:13). As long as you have breath, you have a divine purpose on this earth. So, keep breathing and pushing on.

Photo Credit:  ©Unsplash/Johannes Plenio

2. God’s Chosen People Entered Dark Seasons and Grew Spiritually

There are countless people in God’s Word that have waded through heavy and dark seasons only to come out on the other side with a story that is wrapped in hope, reconciliation, amazing grace, and God’s goodness.

That means stories of God’s chosen people, the stories we read about and glean from, all embarked on a journey of faith only to land in places of isolation, wondering around desolate and barren places, finding themselves battling depression, bending towards temptation, filled with sorrow and pain; all beguiled towards this darkness that taunted and lured them in. Even some of the disciples doubted Jesus, questioned God, and came into a tug-of-war of their faith, encountering desperate seasons that led to a weary soul. Yet, these stories remind us of their humanness, showing their flaws that we all share and can easily relate to, all the while exemplifying God’s goodness and faithfulness!

If you are a sister in Christ, I invite you to take a glance at some familiar stories with a fresh set of eyes. Sarah is known for her faith and obedience, but she doubted God’s ability to give her a child (Genesis 11-13) and even mocked God with her ill-witted humor. Even still, God delivered on His promise. Naomi battled loss and was struggling with grief, feeling that God had abandoned her (Ruth 1:20-21), yet she played a huge part in the love story between Ruth and Boaz. Mary and Martha also give us a good lesson on redemption and that the posture of our heart is how we experience God’s precious presence.

If you are a brother in Christ, dig into the story of Peter, the beloved disciple, who willingly followed Jesus with adoration, but when fear overcame him, he failed to trust God and denied Him three times (Matthew 14:22-33). Isaiah and Elijah, both major prophets known for their faithfulness and predictions of the coming Messiah, portray writings that reveal an inner battle and period of heaviness and emotional distress (Isaiah 33 and 1 Kings 19:4-14). Jeremiah may be known as the “weeping” prophet as he grew so disheartened over the sin and idolatry of Judah (Jeremiah 8-12), but he faced loneliness and rejection and had bouts of anger and bitterness (Jeremiah 15:17-18 and Jeremiah 18:19-23).

Their stories are our stories. God used them, even in hard times, growing them spiritually. He does the same for me… and for you!

Photo Credit: Nik Shuliahin/Unsplash

3. Jesus Is Cheering You On!

Dark seasons are commonplace for us as believers. As we run this “great race of life,” we can be assured that there will be ups and downs, highs and lows, twists and turns, and unexpected events that will either give us a streak of endurance or leave us coasting on fumes.

But it may still have us questioning… Does God really cheer us on? Is that even Biblical? Yes, Jesus is seen throughout Scripture encouraging His disciples, the crowds of people that gathered for His teachings, and His words are meant for us as well.

Jesus encourages us to come to Him when we are weary and need rest (Matthew 11:28). He tells us that we will most certainly face trials and tribulations, be He has overcome the world. He is the way, truth, and life (John 16:33 and 14:6), and gives us ways to live abundantly. When we approach this life with a genuine heart, asking and seeking God’s will, we find the goodness that He has for us (Matthew 7:7). These truths (and so many more) will set us free from the darkness and lead us to the Light (John 8:32).

Furthermore, Jesus has a special message and promise for those who are poor in spirit and spiritually bankrupt. That means He has a message for us, my friend. In Matthew 5:3, Jesus says that those who are in dark, crushing seasons of the soul will be blessed and inherit the kingdom of Heaven. Read that again if you need to. In God’s upside-down kingdom, there is no need to earn God’s favor or strive to get His attention; you already have it! He sees and knows the nature of your heart and the motives behind each of your actions. And He is cheering you on, encouraging you to stay the course and run the race, even when it is hard. The best part is He isn’t just on the sidelines just clapping and smiling, He is running this race right alongside you, all while preparing a place for you to spend with Him in eternity!

Photo Credit: ©GettyImages/Takako Watanabe

This article originally appeared on Christianity.com. For more faith-building resources, visit

Christianity.com.

Alicia Searl is a devotional author, blogger, and speaker that is passionate about pouring out her heart and pointing ladies of all ages back to Jesus. She has an education background and master’s in literacy.  Her favorite people call her Mom, which is why much of her time is spent cheering them on at a softball game or dance class. She is married to her heartthrob (a tall, spiky-haired blond) who can whip up a mean latte. She sips that goodness while writing her heart on a page while her puppy licks her feet. Visit her website at aliciasearl.com and connect with her on Instagram and Facebook.

Originally published Tuesday, 29 July 2025.

Thankfully and unfortunately, there is a lot of talk surrounding bullying these days. I run the risk of very much aging myself when I say this, but, back in my day, conversations about dealing with bullies had only just begun to become more prominent. And on top of that, social media was nothing like it is today, so cyberbullying was not as pervasive.

I don’t have all of the answers for handling bullying, but I experienced it all through grade school, so I can at least offer you some insights.

When someone picks on you, it almost always has nothing to do with you. Often, they are taking their own insecurities, frustrations, and identity crises out on someone else in an effort to not deal with their emotions. It doesn’t make their words or antics sting any less. But I hope you remember their words are reflections of them, not you.

I also believe in the power of fighting back with words and killing people with kindness. If someone is picking on you, don’t let them steamroll you, but also be sure not to stoop to their level. Being the bigger person can be exhausting, but it can also make a huge difference in your life and theirs by highlighting the power of kindness. The Bible even asserts this in Ephesians 4:29, which says, “Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.”

When it comes to cyberbullying, utilize the “block” feature. It may seem “uncool” to block the mean or cool kids, but your peace is exponentially more important than some arbitrary idea of coolness. Plus, school is temporal. There’s a finite amount of time you’ll be there. When you’re handed that diploma after strutting across that stage, you don’t ever have to see your classmates again if you don’t want to.

So, I guess this is a really long answer just to say: If you’re being bullied, stand up for yourself, try your best to rise above it, and tell an adult if you need help. And remember, this, too, shall pass.

Photo Credit: ©Getty-Motortion

Raise your hand if someone at Church has offered to set you up. Look at that – nearly every hand raised. Now, raise your hand if someone at Church has prayed with you to continue living single for God’s glory. Hopefully, as many hands went up, but probably not. In our church culture, single is often interpreted to mean “I need help getting un-single.” And while we do need help, lots of it, God will handle the “getting un-single.” We need the Church’s help with a bigger problem.

And being single is not our biggest problem. In light of God’s Word, it probably does not even make the top ten. Our biggest problem is the same as everyone else’s: We are sinners. And, without Christ, the wages of sin is death, eternal separation from God. But, with Christ, we can live in freedom from sin and freedom to serve God. And that’s what we need help with: living the Christian life.

Like married church members, we need prompting to continue obeying Christ and displaying Him to others. We need to be encouraged that our service to God and others has value and worth. We need the fellowship of other soldiers in this fight of faith, others who will pick us up and say, “God always wins. Keep fighting! I’m here for you.” God will address our singleness in His way and in His time. But until then, remember, we need your support to take up our cross daily and follow Christ. We need your help to continue on as dedicated, useful, and beloved servants of our God.

Learn more about Alisha’s newest book, Confessions of a Christian Spinster:

Being single in today’s church often feels like a waiting game. You’re put on hold in ministry, service, even spiritual growth until you say “I do,” and you’re either pitied or not seen at all. Unlike today’s church, God is not mystified by the presence of unmarried Christ-followers in the pews. In fact, he has masterful plans for those without a ring on their finger. Alisha Plummer points out how God is eager to empower them with purpose and passion.

In Confessions of a Christian Spinster, Alisha explores God’s design specifically for Christian singlehood through amusing tales and scripturally based truths. She tackles the difficult questions the church often ignores, like: Where do I fit in? Does the church even want me? Has God forgotten about me? What happens if I never get married? Further, she confronts the church, calling for an adjustment to its couple-centric culture, and asking Christians to understand that their single brothers and sisters are not only valued by God but integral to his kingdom.

Singles will feel seen through Alisha’s words; they’ll be encouraged to seize their role in the church and inspire their pastoral staff to reinvent their culture on singleness. is a powerful resource for those seeking to live and thrive in a perplexed church–and a way forward for the church itself.

Prayer is a critical part of worship. When we’re alone, one of the most important ways we can worship the Lord is to spend uninterrupted, devoted time with him in loving, surrendered prayer. Yet when it comes to church, many services fail to incorporate prayer much, if at all. The pastor might say a prayer or ask for prayer requests to be sent to them during the week, or there might be the standard recitation of the Lord’s Prayer, but other than that, the service does little to emphasize or promote personal or group prayer. 

Yet the healthiest, strongest churches are typically those that are committed to prayer. They infuse prayer throughout the service, with ample time for silent prayer. The pastor might pray aloud before beginning the sermon, asking for wisdom or clarity, and after the message, the body might be invited to pray about the lesson discussed. People are urged to pray throughout the week.

Churches that skip or gloss over the importance of prayer are not only doing their members a disservice by robbing them of a beautiful opportunity together, but they are failing to honor the Lord in a manner he repeatedly urges us to practice. 

God commands us to pray (Philippians 4:6-7). Christ urged us to pray and modeled this himself. As Ephesians 6:18 says, “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.” At its core, prayer is worship, for during prayer, we are in communion and connection with God. 

If you notice these things happening in your church, consider what’s going on and why. Does God want you to talk with your church staff about this? Is God asking you to step up and help in this area? The church must put God first.

Related Podcast:

Dr. Caroline Leaf teaches, “The process of thinking and choosing is the most powerful thing in the universe after God and it is a phenomenal gift from God to be treasured and used properly.”

We can choose life-giving or destructive thoughts. Paul, New Testament missionary and writer, exhorts, “Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things” (Philippians 4:8 NIV). He wouldn’t urge us to do this if it were impossible. This teaching shows us we have the power to choose to think about these things instead of lies, ugliness, impurity, hate, and malice.

Paul also writes that we should, “take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ” (2 Corinthians 10:5b, NIV). This choice is amazing. We don’t have to be trapped in destructive, spiraling thought patterns. It’s not easy and takes time, work, and, often, help from others. But we can decide to change our thought patterns, and when we do, it changes our brains (Dr. Caroline Leaf, Switch On Your Brain). 

Each morning, as we wake up, we choose our first thoughts. We can decide to praise God or moan and complain. As we go through the day and negative thoughts attack, we can stop, look at them, and replace them with truth and beauty.

2. Gratitude

We can choose each day to be thankful for all we have instead of focusing on what we don’t have and being discontent. There’s extensive research on the power of gratitude by both scientists and Christian writers. 

Paul teaches, “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus” (1 Thessalonians 5:18 NIV). We can choose to be thankful. If someone is caught in a cycle of negativity, it may take time and work, but it can be overcome. Begin by being grateful for just one thing. Write it down, or say it aloud.

Another challenge is to make a list today of five things you’re grateful for, and tomorrow add five more. If we do this each day, we begin to grow in gratitude for God’s gifts.

Author Ann Voskamp beautifully wrote, “No amount of regret changes the past. No amount of anxiety changes the future. Any amount of gratitude changes the present.”

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Divorce is one of life’s most challenging experiences, but when your ex-spouse is a narcissist, the challenges can feel overwhelming. Co-parenting after such a relationship adds a layer of complexity that is unique to those dealing with narcissism. However, with the right mindset, biblical wisdom, and a focus on the well-being of your children, it is possible to navigate these turbulent waters.

Let’s explore how to co-parent effectively after divorcing a narcissist and identify some practical advice and guidance to help you maintain peace, focus, and resilience.

Understanding Narcissism in Co-Parenting

Narcissism involves a lack of empathy, a need for control, and a self-centered worldview. In a marriage, these traits make daily life exhausting, and they don’t disappear once the divorce is finalized. In fact, they often carry over into co-parenting. A narcissistic ex might manipulate situations, use the children as pawns, or attempt to control parenting decisions long after the marriage has ended.

Recognizing these behaviors is the first step toward effective co-parenting. By understanding the nature of narcissism, you can better prepare for the emotional and psychological toll it may take and develop strategies to handle those situations.

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1. Set Boundaries and Stick to Them

One of the most important aspects of co-parenting with a narcissist is establishing clear and firm boundaries. Narcissists often try to push limits or create chaos, so boundaries become essential for protecting both yourself and your children. Boundaries might look like:

Limited Communication

Keep communication brief, to the point, and preferably in writing. Use email or co-parenting apps to avoid personal interactions that could turn into arguments.

Clear Parenting Plans 

Set a detailed schedule that is difficult to change. The more concrete and structured the plan, the less room there is for your ex to manipulate the situation.

Emotional Distance 

Don’t allow your ex’s words or actions to trigger you emotionally. Narcissists often use guilt, shame, or anger to control their ex-spouse’s reactions, but your response can be controlled.

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2. Focus on Your Child’s Well-Being

The most important aspect of co-parenting after a divorce, especially when a narcissist is involved, is keeping the children’s well-being at the forefront of everything. Children often become pawns in a narcissistic parent’s game. They may try to manipulate the children or turn them against you, but your focus needs to remain on providing a stable, loving environment.

Be the Calm in the Storm 

Be the stable, compassionate parent. Your children need to feel safe and loved, no matter how chaotic the other home may be. Show them that you’re the dependable one, even when things get difficult.

Encourage Open Communication

Make sure your children feel comfortable expressing their feelings. Keep the lines of communication open, so they don’t feel torn between two warring parents. Remind them that both parents love them, regardless of the tension between the adults.

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3. Lean on Your Faith and Trust in God’s Plan

Co-parenting with a narcissist can drain you emotionally and spiritually. That’s why it’s important to lean on your faith and trust in God’s timing and guidance. He knows the challenges you’re facing, and He’s always with you, offering peace and comfort when you need it most.

Pray for Strength

Each day, seek God’s strength to handle the challenges of co-parenting. Ask for wisdom, patience, and clarity when interacting with your ex-spouse.

Forgiveness

Forgiveness can be difficult, especially when you’ve been hurt repeatedly. But holding onto bitterness only hurts you. Let go of resentment and allow God’s healing to take place in your heart. Forgiveness is not for your ex, but for your peace.

Trust in God’s Purpose

Remember that God has a purpose for you and your children in this situation. Your strength, perseverance, and faith will inspire your children and create a foundation of trust for them as they navigate their own lives.

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4. Get Support When You Need It

Divorce is not something anyone should face alone. And co-parenting with a narcissist can feel isolating at times. That’s why seeking support is crucial for both your emotional health and your children’s well-being.

Counseling

Consider seeing a therapist or a counselor who specializes in co-parenting, especially if you find yourself struggling to manage the emotional toll. Therapy can provide helpful tools to cope with a narcissistic ex-spouse and offer strategies for emotional resilience.

Support Groups

Look for local or online support groups specifically for people who have divorced narcissists. Talking with others who understand your situation can provide comfort, understanding, and encouragement.

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5. The Power of Grace in Co-Parenting

As difficult as it is, grace is your greatest ally when co-parenting with a narcissist. Narcissistic behaviors often demand a level of grace and understanding that can feel nearly impossible to offer. But God’s grace is sufficient, and He has called us to extend that same grace to others, even when they don’t deserve it.

Practice Patience

The journey of co-parenting with a narcissist will test your patience and perseverance. But remember, God is refining you through the process. Trust that He is with you every step of the way.

Embrace Your Role as a Loving Parent

Co-parenting after divorcing a narcissist is never easy, but with faith, strength, and the right mindset, you can provide a healthy, stable environment for your children. Set clear boundaries, focus on the well-being of your kids, and lean on your faith to navigate the challenges. Most importantly, remember that you are not alone, God is with you every step of the way.

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This article originally appeared on Christianity.com. For more faith-building resources, visit

Christianity.com.

Todd Turner is a digital strategist and fundraising consultant who helps churches, Christian schools, and nonprofits grow generosity through smart, biblically grounded strategies. With over two decades of experience in communications, Todd combines creative thinking with practical tools to equip ministries to thrive in a digital world. He’s the creator of the ClickFunding course and a passionate advocate for helping leaders embrace generosity as discipleship, not just dollars.
Learn more at church-generosity.com.

Originally published Friday, 25 July 2025.

Anxiety and fear are closely related, although I would say that fear might bring about a stronger emotional response. For anyone who has experienced a panic attack, it can be extremely frightening. Some have described it as feeling like they were dying or having a heart attack. Thankfully, I haven’t experienced panic attacks to that degree, but I have had them, and they were still scary nonetheless. I used to get them a lot when I was making my 40-minute commute home from work. At the time, I wasn’t a believer and would just keep repeating to myself, “You’re okay. You’re okay” until it passed. On the rare occasions I have a panic attack now, I immediately cry out to the Lord. However, if I’m just in an anxious state, I don’t tend to cry out to God. Instead, I try to distract myself in an attempt to forget about what is making me anxious, but it doesn’t work. Maybe some of you can relate.

When we are experiencing anxiety due to certain circumstances, our body is reacting to our emotions. Unfortunately, this is a symptom of not trusting the Lord for that situation, and not immediately seeking Him for comfort. Just to clarify, for those who have an anxiety disorder, that is a whole other realm, and although prayer would certainly help, some need medical intervention, and that is nothing to be ashamed of. 

The story of Jehoshaphat can teach us a lot about how to approach prayer when we are anxious or fearful: “Jehoshaphat was afraid and turned his attention to seek the Lord; and he proclaimed a period of fasting throughout Judah…and he said, ‘Lord, God of our fathers, are You not God in the heavens? And are You not ruler over all the kingdoms of the nations? Power and might are in Your hand so that no one can stand against You. Did You not, our God, drive out the inhabitants of this land from Your people Israel, and give it to the descendants of Your friend Abraham forever? They have lived in it, and have built You a sanctuary in it for Your name, saying, “If disaster comes upon us, the sword, or judgment, or plague, or famine, we will stand before this house and before You (for Your name is in this house), and cry out to You in our distress, and You will hear and save us.” Now behold, the sons of Ammon, Moab, and Mount Seir, whom You did not allow Israel to invade when they came out of the land of Egypt (for they turned aside from them and did not destroy them), see how they are rewarding us by coming to drive us out from Your possession which You have given us as an inheritance. Our God, will You not judge them? For we are powerless before this great multitude that is coming against us; nor do we know what to do, but our eyes are on You.’” 2 Chronicles 20:3-12 

Let’s take a look at six approaches to prayer we can employ when anxious, as modeled above by Jehoshaphat:

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1. Seek the Lord Immediately

“I sought the Lord, and he answered me; he delivered me from all my fears.” Psalm 34:4 

Is seeking the Lord immediately your go-to response when you are feeling anxious about something? Sadly, I confess, it’s not always mine. There are certain instances where I will go to the Lord immediately, but I’d say a majority of the time, it’s a process to get to that point, which is more about me trying to figure things out rather than seeking the One who has it all figured out. 

Why should we seek the Lord immediately? Because He has called us to. Time and time again, He tells us that He is “our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble” (Psalm 46:1). And we’ve all experienced that help! You know that incredible peace you feel when you seek the Lord with your whole heart and profoundly sense His presence. Yet, we are a forgetful people… 

Let’s change that and ask the Holy Spirit daily to remind us to seek the Lord first, especially when we are anxious. He will indeed answer that prayer, and we will be on our way to a peace that surpasses all understanding. 

2. Fast and Read the Word

Not everyone is able to fast from food. I’m one of those people. But for the purposes of dealing with anxiety, there is something I can fast from—distractions. I would say that I am not alone in seeking to distract myself, especially through social media with mindless scrolling, hoping to forget what is making me anxious.  

What if, when we feel anxious, we fast from anything that we are using to disassociate from our situation and instead spend time in the Word, seeking our comfort and rest from Him? I can promise you that the Lord will speak life into your situation through His living Word, and you will feel the anxiety start to melt away. 

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3. Acknowledge the Attributes of God

I love how Jehoshaphat declared everything about God that was true related to his specific prayer request. It’s no different for you or me. There are attributes of God that you can declare over the situation that is making you anxious.  

Acknowledging the attributes of God for your circumstances reminds you of who God is and what He is able to do. It takes the focus off of self and puts it squarely on the Lord. You can believe God when He says, “You need not fight in this battle; take your position, stand and watch the salvation of the Lord on your behalf, Judah and Jerusalem. Do not fear or be dismayed; tomorrow, go out to face them, for the Lord is with you” (2 Chronicles 20:17).

When we trust in who God is, our anxiety will shrink under the power of God’s might for that circumstance.

4. “Remind” God of What He Has Already Done for You 

Throughout the Bible and including Jehoshaphat’s story, many would “remind” the Lord of what He had already done for them. This did not mean that the Lord had forgotten, but it’s more an exercise of remembering, declaring, and trusting that He absolutely will do it again.  

When we “remind” the Lord of what He has done, we are, in essence, giving Him glory once again and strengthening our faith, which will decrease our anxiety. 

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5. Proclaim God’s Victory Over Your Circumstances

Proclaiming God’s victory over the circumstances causing you anxiety is a powerful antidote. There are countless verses where God promises to be with us, strengthen us, protect us, and provide for us. How could we not proclaim God’s victory over what is causing us anxiety?  

When we proclaim God’s victory over our circumstances, our anxious thoughts will cower!

6. Humble Yourself 

“Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time. Casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.” 1 Peter 5:6-7 

This verse says it all. When we don’t seek the Lord with our anxiety, we are, in essence, saying we will handle it. Instead, we must humble ourselves, express our need to the Lord, and He and He alone will exalt us.  

When we humble ourselves, that’s when the Lord does His greatest work because we are not muddying the situation with our own devices, but wholly depending on God. What freedom from anxiety will come when we do just that?

Let us remember that “God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind” (2 Timothy 1:7). The power we have is to seek Him immediately with our anxious thoughts in humility, filling our minds with His Word, remembering who God is and what He has done.

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Karen Del Tatto is a blogger, author, women’s ministry leader, pastor’s wife, mom, and grandmother who is passionate about the Word of God. Her blog Growing Together in Grace and Knowledge and her books Choosing to Trust God: Breaking the Habit of Worry, A 30-Day Devotional and Choosing to Trust God Companion Journal reveal her heart for providing Biblical insights to encourage women to grow in and through their struggles while equipping them to overcome. Karen and her husband live in Rhode Island and enjoy walks in the woods, owling, and spending time with their grandchildren.

Originally published Monday, 21 July 2025.

Creating a space in your home specifically for prayer is a great way to stay connected during the busier times of life. When you are in this space, you are there for only one reason, and it’s a space you create, which means it will bring calmness and peace. Here are some ideas to help you create your special prayer space:

-Choose a space that is quiet and free from traffic. This could be a corner of a room, your closet, or even a finished basement or attic. 

-Add soft lighting.

-If it won’t distract you, choose some soft background music.

-Choose candles in your favorite scents to burn.

-Privacy. Make sure you let your family know that when you are in this space, you are not to be disturbed. 

-Add your essentials: Bible, prayer journal, Bible study resources, and devotional.

-Make it comfy. Don’t forget a kneeling pad, comfy chair, or a prayer bench to sit on. You may also want to add a surface to write on, like a small desk.

-Make it personal. Add scriptures, pictures, and other elements that inspire you.

Remember, prayer doesn’t have to be a long, drawn-out process. Don’t underestimate the power of short, spontaneous prayers. This is a great way to stay close to God throughout the day and also to pray for people on the spot. 

6. Make Prayer Part of Your Family Life

In addition, prayer should be an important part of your family life. When families pray together, they are stronger both individually and as a unit. Here are some ideas for incorporating prayer into your family life:

-Pick one or two nights a week where you gather and pray.

-Post a whiteboard where family members can write their prayer requests.

-Go on a prayer walk and pray for different areas of your community. (Local businesses, first responders, and other areas you see that need prayer.)

-Make a blessing box where family members can write answers to prayer. Share those answers as a family once a week. 

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The Bible teaches us that the original apostles of Jesus were Peter, James, John, Andrew, Philip, Judas Iscariot, Matthew, Thomas, James, the son of Alpheus, Bartholomew, Judas Thaddeus, and Simon Zelotes. Among these were fishermen during the time of calling, i.e., Peter, James, John, and Andrew.

It was at this time that He went off to the mountain to pray, and He spent the whole night in prayer to God. And when day came, He called His disciples to Him and chose twelve of them, whom He also named apostles. (Luke 6:12-13) 

Twelve men responded to the call to be disciples of Jesus. They were Jews, uneducated commoners, and simple men of faith who gave up everything to be followers of Christ. Jesus spent three years training these men to be leaders. Jesus planned to eventually have the disciples take over and carry on the work He had started.

What we know to be true about Jesus is that He chose ordinary and unrefined men to be his apostles. They were the commonest of the common. They were from rural areas, farmers, and fishermen. Christ purposely passed over the elite, aristocratic, and influential men of society and chose mostly the men from the dregs of society. That’s how it has always been in God’s economy. He exalts the humble and lays low on those who are proud.

The Names of the 12 Disciples

We find the disciples’ names in the Gospel books of Matthew 10:2-4, Mark 3:14-19 and Luke 6:13-16.

You didn’t choose me. I chose you. (John 15:16)

Now the names of the twelve apostles are these: 

1. The first, Simon, who is called Peter, and 
2. Andrew his brother; and 
3. James the son of Zebedee, and 
4. John his brother; 
5. Philip and 
6. Bartholomew (Nathanael); 
7. Thomas and 
8. Matthew the tax collector; 
9. James the son of Alphaeus (James the Less), and 
10. Thaddaeus (Judas, son of James); 
11. Simon the Zealot, and 
12. Judas Iscariot, the one who betrayed Him. (Matthew 10:2-4)

Now that we know their names let’s take a deeper look at the life story of each disciple.

Although the disciples were different, they were known for their unwavering faith when the Early Church began. Need to strengthen your faith in this season? Download our FREE 30-day guide to grow your faith today.

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Peter and Andrew

And He said to them, “Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men.” (Matthew 4:19)

Peter and Andrew–Sons of John, were born in Bethsaida. They later settled in a home together in the town of Capernaum. They were fisherman and worked alongside James and John. They were companions and had probably known each other for years.

Peter and Andrew were early followers of John the Baptist. It was Andrew who first introduced his older brother Peter to Jesus when they were in the wilderness with John. (John 1:40-42) It is thought that they became spiritual followers of Jesus at this time. Once Peter was introduced to Jesus they left John and became followers of Christ.

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1. Peter

Also known as Simon, Simon Peter, or Cephas (Rock), Peter was a gregarious, natural leader, and an obvious spokesperson for the twelve. Peter’s name is mentioned far more in the New Testament than any other of the disciples. He was the older of the two brothers and the only married disciple. (Luke 4:38) His wife was known to travel with him when he was on mission. (1 Cor. 9:5) His assignment was to bring the Gospel to the circumcised. (Gal. 2:7)

Peter is well known for denying Christ three times after Christ was arrested. After his own arrest many years later he requested to be crucified with his head down. He didn’t believe he was worthy to be crucified in the same manner as his Lord. He died a martyr’s death in Rome during the reign of Nero. Some speculate around the same time as Paul was being beheaded.

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2. Andrew

An early disciple of John the Baptist, Andrew, and John, the Son of Zebedee were present when John the Baptist said, “Behold, the Lamb of God!” (John 1:35) Andrew was the first to follow Jesus and his enthusiasm was evident as his desire to introduce his older brother to Jesus revealed what was already in his heart—a deep love for God.

He was not a dominant person next to his outspoken brother. He was a passionate preacher and shared the gospel boldly and was a significant contributor to the early church.

Andrew died a martyr’s death. He faced crucifixion with boldness and courage. He said, “Oh, cross most welcome and longed for! With a willing mind, joyfully and desirously, I come to you, being a scholar of Him which did hang on you, because I have always been your lover and yearn to embrace you.”

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James and John—Sons of Zebedee

There is some evidence that Zebedee was a man of affluence. He was able to hire enough servants to help with his fishing business. (Mark 1:20). In Scripture, James is listed before his younger brother John, yet he remains somewhat obscure except for the fact he is part of Jesus’ inner three. John is much more in the forefront of what is happening during the three years of training with Christ. James and John were both known for being men of intense passion and fervor. Because of this Jesus nicknamed them the Sons of Thunder. (Mark 3:17)

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3. James

James is the elder brother of John. He is a rather quiet part of the team of disciples in that we don’t read much about him in Scripture. As part of Jesus’ “inner three” he was permitted to be present along with Peter and John when Jesus raised Jairus’ daughter from the dead (Mark 5:37), he witnessed Jesus’ transfiguration on the Mount of Olives (Matthew 17:1), and he was in the Garden of Gethsemane with Jesus. (Mark 14:33)

James was the first disciple to be martyred (he was beheaded) and the only disciple to have their martyrdom recorded in Scripture. (Acts 12:1-3)

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4. John

Known as the “disciple Jesus loved,” he was also a part of the inner three. (John 3:23) He wrote a large portion of the New Testament—The book of John, 1, 2, and 3 John, and the book of Revelation. He wrote more about love than any other New Testament author. His close proximity to Jesus taught him much about love.

He was exiled to the island of Patmos under Domitian, but after his death, John was allowed to return to Ephesus where he governed churches in Asia until his death at about  A.D. 100.

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5. Philip

“The next day He purposed to go into Galilee, and He found Philip. And Jesus said to him, Follow Me.” (John 1:43)

What do we know about Philip? Almost nothing. Although a Jew, we only know him by his Greek name, Philip. A heart for evangelism, he was anxious to tell Nathanael the One foretold by Moses and the prophets had been found. (John 1:45) They were close companions and possibly studied the Old Testament together.

Philip was stoned and crucified in Hierapolis, Phrygia.

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6. Nathanael

Also known as Bartholomew, Nathanael came from Cana in Galilee. (John 21:2) He expressed some local prejudice about Nazareth. (John 1:46) Jesus recognized how sincerely his love for God was from the beginning when He said, “Behold, an Israelite indeed, in whom there is no deceit!” (John 1:47)

Nathanael may have preached in India and translated the book of Matthew into their language. He was beaten, crucified, and beheaded. He died as a martyr while serving the people of Albinopolis, Armenia. 

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7. Matthew

Levi, the Son of Alphaeus, Matthew was a tax collector–the most despised people in all of Israel. They were known for taking extra money from the people of Israel to pay off the Romans and to pad their own pockets.  

Then it happened that as Jesus was reclining at the table in the house, behold, many tax collectors and sinners came and were dining with Jesus and His disciples; for there were many of them, and they were following Him. When the scribes of the Pharisee’s saw that He was eating with the sinners and tax collectors, they said to His disciples, Why is he eating and drinking with tax collectors and sinners? And hearing this, Jesus said to them, It is not those who are healthy that need a physician, but those who are sick; I did not come to call the righteous, but sinners. (Mark 2:16)

As Jesus went on from there, He saw a man called Matthew, sitting in the tax collector’s booth; and He said to him, Follow Me! And he got up and followed Him. (Matthew 9:9)  

Matthew brought the gospel to Ethiopia and Egypt. Hircanus the king had him killed with a spear.

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8. Thomas

Usually nicknamed “Doubting Thomas,” Thomas was also called Didymus, meaning The Twin (although a twin brother or sister is never mentioned in the Bible.) He was an outspoken skeptic to the point of being known as a pessimist. No details are given about Thomas in the first three Gospels other than the mention of his name. John’s first mention of Thomas is in John 11:16. Lazarus had died and the disciples feared for the life of Jesus and themselves if they were to go back to Bethany. Thomas speaks up. “Let us also go, that we may die with Him.” (John 11:16 NASB) Here we see the character quality of courage and loyalty to Christ, a quality not often attributed to Thomas.

His devotion to Christ is further displayed when Jesus told the disciples that He was going to go away and prepare a place for them. “And you know the way where I am going. Thomas said to Him, Lord, we do not know where You are going, how do we know the way?” (John 14:4-5) Thomas didn’t want to be left behind. And then Thomas’ love for Jesus and his desire to see and touch before he believed and then his declaration, “My Lord and My God!” (John 20:28)  

Tradition strongly suggests that Thomas started the Christian church in India. Some suggest being run through by a spear killed him, ironically, similar to Jesus being pierced by a spear.

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9. James the Less

He is the son of Alphaeus (Luke 6:15). His mother’s name is Mary (Mark 15:40) and he has a brother named Joseph (Matthew 27:56).  Except for a few details about his family, there is nothing more mentioned about him in Scripture. Maybe this is why he is referred to as James the Less in Mark 15:40. What is important to remember is although James was somewhat in the background, he was chosen by Jesus to be one of the twelve disciples. He was trained and used by Christ in a powerful way to further the Kingdom of God. He was a valuable team member.

Tradition says he was crucified in Sinai or possibly stoned to death in Jerusalem.

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10. Simon the Zealot

Simon was probably a political activist in his younger years. Why would Jesus choose someone with this background?

“It is amazing that Jesus would select a man like Simon to be an apostle. But he was a man of fierce loyalties, amazing passion, courage, and zeal. Simon had believed the truth and embraced Christ as his Lord. The fiery enthusiasm he once had for Israel was now expressed in his devotion to Christ.” –Twelve Ordinary Men

There is some speculation about what happened to Simon. Tradition says that after preaching on the west coast of Africa, Simon went to England where he ended up being crucified in 74 AD.

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11. Judas, son of James

The eleventh name on the list of disciples is Judas. Also known as Jude, Thaddeus, and Lebbaeus, Judas lived in obscurity as one of the Twelve. He did ask Jesus a question in John 14:22, “Lord, why are you going to reveal yourself only to us and not to the world at large?” Judas seemed overly concerned with this question. Christ responded by saying He would reveal Himself to anyone who loved Him.

Most early tradition says that Judas, son of James, a few years after Pentecost, took the gospel north to Edessa. There he healed the King of Edessa, Abgar. Eusebius the historian said the archives at Edessa contained the visit of Judas and the healing of Abgar (the records have now been destroyed). The traditional symbol of Judas is a club and tradition says he was clubbed to death for his faith.

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12. Judas Iscariot

Jesus answered them, “Did I Myself not choose you, the twelve, and yet one of you is a devil?” Now He meant Judas the son of Simon Iscariot, for he, one of the twelve, was going to betray Him. (John 6:70-71)

The Traitor. Nothing is known about Judas’ background. His encounter and call by Jesus is not recorded in Scripture. He was not from Galilee–that much is known. He obviously became a follower and stayed with Jesus for three years. He gave Christ three years of his life, but he certainly didn’t give Him his heart, and Jesus knew this. Judas betrayed Jesus for thirty pieces of silver. (Matthew 26:15)

“The other eleven apostles are all great encouragements to us because they exemplify how common people with typical failings can be used by God in uncommon, remarkable ways. Judas, on the other hand, stands as a warning about the evil potential of spiritual carelessness, squandered opportunity, sinful lusts, and hardness of the heart. Here was a man who drew as close to the Savior as it is humanly possible to be. He enjoyed every privilege Christ affords. He was intimately familiar with everything Jesus taught. Yet he remained in unbelief and went into a hopeless eternity.” Twelve Ordinary Men

Share which disciple’s story stands out to you or a lesson their lives have taught you on Crosswalk Forums! Click HERE.

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Allyson Holland is a lifestyle blogger. She writes for The Mighty.com, Publishous.com, and PublishousNow.com. She has been a guest author for Bible.org. She and John have been married for 30 years and they have five children. They serve together as leaders in Re-Engage at Watermark Community Church, Dallas, Texas. Ally suffers from RSD/CRPS. She is passionate about God’s redemptive work in the lives of those who suffer with physical and emotional pain. Ally is a former Director of Ministry to Women and former board member for Thrive Ministry. You can connect with Ally on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Pinterest.

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Originally published Saturday, 19 July 2025.

“For now we see only a reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known” (1 Corinthians 13:12).

In our current state of life, faith is a necessity. We serve a God whom we cannot see with our physical eyes and the Bible tells us we need faith because we cannot come to God without first believing that he exists (Heb. 11:6). However, faith is only necessary because what we are believing for has not happened yet. We know that heaven is our future home and until we reach it, we have faith knowing that when we pass from this life, we will go to be with the Lord forever.

While we believe this, we have not experienced it yet. Our faith is the hope that bridges that gap between what we have prayed for and believed, and the time when those things will come to pass. When we get to heaven, the realization of everything we have believed will shift and, at that point, our faith will become sight. Our hope will become our reality and from that point forward, we won’t need to hope or believe because we will live in what we have longed for and hoped for.

7. We Won’t Experience Darkness

“There will be no more night. They will not need the light of a lamp or the light of the sun, for the Lord God will give them light. And they will reign for ever and ever” (Revelation 22:5).

Every day, we experience light and darkness. The sun rises in the morning, bringing with it the hope and expectation of a new day. In the evening the sun sets, and we rest, hopefully having made that day a productive one. This cycle will continue as long as this earth exists. But this is not what we will experience in heaven. We will live forever in the light of the glory of God, which is a light that far outshines this noon day sun.

On some mornings I drive my daughter to school and when we make the turn towards the school, the light of the morning sun is blinding. I can only imagine what the light of God’s glory will be like. Yet one day we will know, and we will never experience darkness again.

Related Resource: Trusting God with Tomorrow’s Unknowns

The unknowns of tomorrow can weigh heavy on our hearts, but Jesus reminds us to trust in God’s care and surrender our worries to Him. – Rachel Wojo. Your Nightly Prayer is a daily Christian prayer podcast from the LifeAudio Podcast Network and Crosswalk.com. Each night, the team behind Crosswalk.com brings you a devotional and prayer to help you end your day in conversation with God. May these nightly prayers help you find the words to pray and focus your heart and mind on the love of God as you end your day. If you like what you hear, subscribe on Apple or Spotify so you never miss an episode!

Photo credit: Pexels/Joy Marino

Being thankful for singleness can seem like an oxymoron because many singles don’t see a reason to be grateful for it. On the contrary, there are many reasons to be grateful for being single. To start, singleness is a symbol of freedom. Freedom to grow as God allows you, freedom to learn who you are and why God has placed you in singleness. Additionally, singleness is the time to build a relationship with God and delve into the ministry work He has for you. Singleness is a journey filled with so many things to be grateful for and it’s time to get into the habit of showing it. You can journal your thoughts about the freedom God has given, make a list of friendships you’ve forged in singleness, or design a grateful jar and write small notes about how grateful you are to grow in singleness. Whatever you decide to do, be sure each thought of gratefulness brings you closer to God, and stronger in singleness.

Developing habits takes time and commitment. It calls for unwaberign dedication to your goals. Singles, as you move forward in singleness, it is my sincere prayer that you develop healthy habits that will heal your brokenness, heal any bitterness you may be harboring in your heart about being single, and forge habits that will help you embrace it for the gift that it is. Start intentionally planning to reshape your singleness by starting small, and adapting one of the habits listed above. Be patient with yourself, and know that God is with you every step of the way.

As you take this journey, be sure to track and acknowledge your progress in any way you see fit, and remember that it’s okay to start again as many times as you need to. If you find yourself wavering, lean on a solid, spirit-filled group of singles who will hold you accountable and keep you on track. To take things a step further, I suggest creating a healthy habits of singleness vision board where you clearly define what habits you want to release and what habits you want to adopt. If you decide to do this, once it’s created, place it where you can see it daily. This will serve as a reminder for you to stay focused on resetting your singleness with new habits. It will also serve as personal encouragement. As you begin this journey in singleness, carefully and prayerfully stay committed to the goal of creating your single habits to keep you happy, healthy, whole, and prosperous. There is purpose in every season, but you won’t discover it unless you are actively involved in its beauty.

Lord, as David prayed in Psalm 51, “Be gracious to me, God, according to Your faithfulness; According to the greatness of Your compassion, wipe out my wrongdoings. Wash me thoroughly from my guilt and cleanse me from my sin. For I know my wrongdoings, and my sin is constantly before me. Against You, You only, I have sinned and done what is evil in Your sight, so that You are justified when You speak and blameless when You judge” (verses 1-4 NASB).  “Soak me in your laundry and I’ll come out clean, scrub me and I’ll have a snow-white life. Tune me in to foot-tapping songs, set these once-broken bones to dancing. Don’t look too close for blemishes, give me a clean bill of health” (verses 7-9 MSG). 

“Create in me a clean heart, God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. Do not cast me away from Your presence, and do not take Your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of Your salvation, and sustain me with a willing spirit” (verses 10-12 NASB). In the cleaning, redeeming, restoring name of Christ Jesus, I pray. Amen. 

For more healing prayers and an in-depth look at the 10 Steps toward Healing and Wholeness, see Cindi’s book, When a Woman Overcomes Life’s Hurts.

Related Resource: A Prayer for Healing Words

There is one thing in our lives that holds great power that can be easily used for both great good and great evil. I have seen it bring people together and tear others apart. I have used it for both wonderful and terrible purposes. It is something none of us can escape. I’m talking about the power of the tongue. Words can harm, but words can also heal. The tongue has great power, and under the control of the Holy Spirit, this power can change lives in the best way, all for the glory of God. Do you struggle with using your words to heal? Listen to today’s episode of Everyday Prayers from Erin Mohring on Proverbs 12:18, and pray this prayer with us today:

Photo Credit: ©GettyImages/DjelicS 

Substance use is also detrimental to our mental health. Substance use is essentially introducing certain substances to the body, whether ingesting, injecting, inhaling, or otherwise consuming. These substances can include anything from alcohol (hard liquor, beer, or wine), drugs (illegal, over-the-counter, or prescription), to tobacco or inhalants.

Notice the habit listed here isn’t just substance abuse, but substance use. That’s because any substance we introduce to the body can have an impact on us. For example, even moderate or light use of alcohol can worsen or create mental health issues. Alcohol is a depressant, and even if initially it makes a person feel less anxious or more relaxed, over time, it ends up being harmful, not helpful. Even just a little can impair your judgment and decision-making, increase impulsivity, and cause mood changes. 

Drugs (even prescription or over-the-counter drugs) can worsen underlying conditions and alter the brain’s chemistry, impacting dopamine and serotonin. 

Tobacco can increase anxiety, tension, and depression, while inhalants (whether vaping or abusing household chemicals) can change the way your brain communicates with other parts of your body, leading to mental health problems. 

In 1 Peter 5:8, we’re urged, “Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.”

Substance use, even if it’s not abuse, can impact our ability to be sober-minded, ultimately giving the devil a foothold and leading to mental health problems. 

Related Resource: He Is The Rock at Your Bottom

Today, we explore a powerful reframe: what if rock bottom isn’t a place of shame or destruction, but a moment of surrender? A moment when you realize that Jesus is the Rock at the bottom, and that He’s been there all along. This conversation dismantles the common story that things need to get “bad enough” before you’re allowed to change your relationship with alcohol. 

We share vulnerable moments from our own journeys and unpack how letting go of the “I have to hit bottom” mindset can actually open the door to freedom, clarity, and a deeper connection with God. Whether your life “looks fine” on the outside or you’re wrestling with the quiet ache of disconnection, this episode invites you to choose better—not because you have to, but because you get to.

Listen to But Jesus Drank Wine on LifeAudio.com, or subscribe on Apple or Spotify so you never miss an episode!

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John MacArthur recorded countless teachings that the world can easily access via the Internet! If you browse this amazing online collection, you can find teachings on numerous topics. Families can go to this beautiful place to boost their understanding of God’s word, and it just takes a few clicks to welcome this truth into your home.

In his sermon, Divine Wisdom for the Family, he offers insight beyond trends and points us to God’s holy truth.

MacArthur preaches, “Number one, fear your God, fear your God. Chapter 1, verse 7, ‘The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction.’ Proverbs 9:10, ‘The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy is understanding.’ Everything starts when you fear God. And if you go through Proverbs, this is what you find. Those who fear God are promised prolonged life, blessing upon blessing, far beyond wealth. They are promised an abundant richness in life and that they will never be turned over completely to evil.”

He tells us parents, “We must teach our kids the fear of the Lord if we want to show them the way to an abundant life.” His teachings are filled with Scripture and don’t shy away from the ancient truth in God’s Word. These teachings are a timeless treasure that families can easily access and learn from.

Proverbs 29:11 says, “A fool gives full vent to his spirit, but a wise man quietly holds it back.”

A fool shares everything and anything with others without consideration of whether the recipient is a safe place for this information. Wise people are discerning about how they share sensitive information. When interacting with a person you see has unhealthy tendencies, don’t feel obligated to overshare with them.

I am a people pleaser, so this is hard for me! I want to reach out even when the other person has completely ghosted me. I’m often inclined to share our story freely because I desire connection. Including others is my superpower, but I’ve learned that being selective, thoughtful, and kind is a good way to guard your heart and calendar. I only have space for a limited number of safe, invested people. I have to prioritize them. People who don’t know me well don’t need to know everything about me or my family. If you are an extraverted empath, you will struggle with this, but the older I get, the more I see that my heart is precious and deserves to be cared for.

Proverbs 18:7 warns, “A fool’s mouth is his ruin, and his lips are a snare to his soul.” Don’t be a fool, control your mouth to remain safe in your relationships.

As happens when people travel and spend a great deal of time together, they give each other nicknames. Jesus himself gave John and James the name “Sons of Thunder.” Mark 3:17 lists them among the main disciples, “James, son of Zebedee and his brother John (to them he gave the name Boanerges, which means, ‘sons of thunder’).” 

While the name might have referenced their passionate personalities, Luke 9:54 gives an interesting account. A certain Samaritan village refused to welcome Jesus, rejecting the Messiah. James and John asked Christ, “Lord, do you want us to call fire down from heaven to destroy them?” On the one hand, they had passion and loyalty for the mission, maybe calling back to how Elijah called down fire on the prophets of Baal. But it was a worldly passion. Jesus rebuked them. His Kingdom wouldn’t happen by force and reactionary anger but compassion and love, mercy and truth. 

Later, in Acts 8, Peter and James bring the Holy Spirit to the Samaritan region, a godly act of thunder and baptism of the Spirit, fire, redemption, and salvation instead of condemnation. 

As with John, we often need God to reimagine our expectations of what ministry and purpose look like. We won’t spread a heavenly, loving Kingdom through judgment and condemnation. The Gospel offers a greater heavenly fire to all who believe through the Holy Spirit, one that gives life and saves. 

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Psalm 20:7 says, “Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the LORD our God.” 

This verse is one that I meditate on when the news feels heavy on my heart. We easily become overwhelmed by what is being reported, but our hope is not in the schemes of men but in the Lord alone. God’s word reminds us that he is in control; we can trust him even when the chaos of this world is all around us. 

We have a very short-term memory and need frequent reminders that God protects us, he is our great rescuer, and we can find refuge under the shadow of his wings. Just like the wandering Israelites who so quickly forgot all God had done to save them, we often behave the same way. We quickly forget that God has and will sustain us. 

Isaiah 31:5 says, “Like birds hovering overhead, the LORD Almighty will shield Jerusalem; he will shield it and deliver it, he will ‘pass over’ it and will rescue it.”

There is no headline, agenda, technology, scheme, or disaster that God can’t help us navigate. He will never leave us or forsake us. We must let these truths ground us even in the toughest of circumstances. They are the pillars of our peace and the only way we can stay grounded in a world rushing from one crisis to another. When we need help, God is where we find it, not from social media, Google, or AI. Our hope is in Christ alone.

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“Forever, O Lord, your word is firmly fixed in the heavens” (Psalm 119:89).

The Lord’s immutability is good news for women claiming comfort and encouragement, and the Psalms remind us of this truth multiple times (Ps. 33:11, Ps. 18:2, Ps. 102:27, just to name a few more).

So much in life is unpredictable, ourselves included. The female body is broken by childbirth, not to mention the regular toil of a job and effects of aging. Children move on to school or marriage, leaving an empty nest. Friends get married and either move away or start doing things in pairs, causing the single friend to feel left out. The care of aging parents is an honor and a heavy burden, especially if a woman is simultaneously wrestling with a diagnosis, the breakdown of a marriage, or just the general fatigue of getting older. Retirement brings with it a longing for renewed purpose, although as we have seen above, God always has a purpose for his people: to praise him and share him with others.

When faced with distressing adjustments, or even good change (like marriage, becoming a parent, or getting a new job), we need a foundation. When all the adjustments of life make us feel as though we are standing on a moving floor in an airport, we yearn for something – or someone – that does not change; an anchor.

“God is never the subject of external forces” (James 1:17). Circumstances don’t dictate who he is or what he does. Everything God does is determined by his immutable will. His reaction (if we can call it that) to events is always the expression of his immutable character,” says Lucky Mogakane.

Why is this good news for women? Because the God who said Christ’s blood was sufficient payment for our sins, and that we are saved by our faith in his salvific work, will not change his mind. It means that the God who said we are called sons and daughters (Romans 8:16) will not disown us. People will leave us, we will become bent with age, we will sin and cause pain to others, but when we confess and repent, God is gracious to forgive (1 John 1:9).

A woman in Christ can trust that even if someone in her life holds a grudge or fails to do the right thing by her, God will forgive, he will remain, and he will love her in and through his unchanging, immeasurable power and grace.

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Bible faultfinders argue for a fourfold contradiction in the gospels regarding how many women went to Jesus’ crypt after His entombment. This is an example of a contradiction supposed because of ARGUMENT FROM SILENCE. The reader assumes that if something isn’t mentioned, it didn’t happen.

Matthew 28:1 says, “Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to see the tomb.”

Mark 16:1 tells us, “When the Sabbath was past, Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome” went to the tomb. 

Luke 24:1, 10 states that the group of women mentioned in Luke 23:55 prepared spices, and in Luke 24:1, they took them to the burial place. Luke 24:10 gives us a few names (Mary Magdalene, Joanna, Mary the mother of James), and an unspecified group of other women who went to the tomb.

John 20:1 only makes mention of Mary Magdalene going to the tomb.

The gospel writers (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John) each told the same narrative history of Jesus’ earthly walk, but each shared different details and nuances. There are many common events written, but no details are omitted which would negate others by its omission. 

From the four accounts of the women who went to the tomb, we can deduce there were at least four, but others may have been present as attested by Luke’s account. That the writers kept or omitted names was a simple matter of narrative preference by the gospel writer. No inconsistency exists because none deny what the others have stated.

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Something I have always adored about my childhood are the summer activities my mother used to plan for my sisters and I. If there was anything my mother was amazing at, it was her ability to plan, keep us busy, and keep us engaged. Summer was a break from school, but it was also a time of magic and new adventures.

As we become adults and have children of our own, we want to maintain the same joy, magic, and adventure that our parents gave to us during the summer months. If you want to try a few new summer activities this year with your children, you have come to the right place. While summer temperatures can vary across the world, summer is a great time to get outdoors, try new crafts and hobbies, and read books.

Summer should not be a time of endless video games and television, but a time when families come together. During the majority of the school year, parents don’t get to spend much time with their children. Summer is the perfect opportunity to reconnect with our children and form lasting memories with them. As the years go by, we will miss summers with our children because they will be headed off for college and their own lives.

Even if our children are only a few years old right now, we need to make each day count. As parents, we have been blessed with the opportunity to raise our children, help them to learn about Jesus, and love them. Part of loving them can be realized in the form of spending time with them. This summer, try to be more involved in your children’s life and make the most of every opportunity.

Here are five summer activities for families to try this year.

1. Catch Lightning Bugs at Night

One of my absolute favorite summer activities as a child was catching lightning bugs in the evening. My mom and dad would take us to a park or a public garden where we would catch lightning bugs throughout the evening. It was fun to chase the lightning bugs, catch them, and make a wish before setting them free. This one activity has never ceased to be magical for me. Even in my adult years, I smile when I see the glow of a lightning bug on a summer evening.

If you want to catch lightning bugs with your children, all you have to do is go outside or go to a park where there are many lightning bugs. If your children are scared to catch them, teach them how to gently catch them and how the lightning bug will not hurt them. With trial and error, your children will eventually be able to catch them on their own and release them without fear.

These beautiful memories will stay with your children forever. They will reflect back on summer evenings with a joyful heart and a smile on their face. Catching lightning bugs do not max out at a certain age—kids of all ages can enjoy this activity. Even if you and your spouse have never caught lightning bugs before either, it could be a fun new activity for the entire family.

Photo credit: ©GettyImages/jacoblund

2. Finger Painting or Regular Painting (Depending on Your Child’s Age)

My mom used to have an artistic craft for my sisters and me to do every day during the summer. While many children would see this as a chore or repetitive, I always enjoyed getting to do various forms of art. As a kid, it felt like a never-ending art class, which was a dream come true. One of the most enjoyable forms of art is finger painting or regular painting.

Depending on your child’s age, you can ascertain which would work better. If your children are younger, choose non-toxic finger painting, and if they are older, it should be safe to allow them to paint with regular paint. While paint can cost more money than other art supplies, it is a fun craft to do with your family.

Everyone can come together to paint their own unique masterpiece. There doesn’t have to be a set theme unless you want there to be. Allow your children to express their creativity and unique art forms. They will love the freedom to paint and express their emotions through artwork.

Photo credit: ©GettyImages/Edwin Tan

3. Starting a Book Club

Another summer activity you should try this year is starting a book club with your family. My mom used to read us a book each summer, and we would take time to discuss what we read. We would share our favorite characters, our favorite parts, and how we thought the book would end. In this way, my mom made reading fun and it cultivated a love for books that I still have today.

Since this is your own book club, you can choose the books you want to read to your children. My mom used to read many classics to us, such as “Great Expectations,” “Sense and Sensibility,” and “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland.” Classics are normally safe; however, there are many modern-day books that would be great for your kids, too, such as “The Wingfeather Saga,” the “Wings of Fire” series, and the “Harry Potter” series.

If your children are older, they could read the books for themselves and you can do the same types of discussions and book club meetings with them. This is completely your family’s book club, so feel free to make it unique to your family. You can be sure your family will love this summer activity, which might even become a yearly event.

Photo credit: ©Getty Images/LeManna

4. Going on a Budget-Friendly Day Trip

Week-long vacations are often not doable for many families, especially if you are on a budget. Growing up, my family was always on a tight budget, so we only ever went on a few big vacations. However, to make up for the years we couldn’t go on a big trip, we would take day trips. Day trips tend to be cost effective and easier on the bank account. If you want to treat your family to a vacation this year, but Disney World is out of the question, consider going on a day trip to a nearby city.

Search ahead of time activities, parks, and places to eat in a nearby city. After you have the logistics planned out, you can plan the day of your day trip. Weekends tend to be busier, therefore, it might be beneficial to go on a weekday if your schedule allows. Museums, parks, and restaurants also tend to have specials running on the weekday, which will also be budget friendly.

You don’t have to spend excessive money to give your kids a great summer. What they really want is time with you. Plan small trips and foster your relationship with your children. They will love all the extra time they get to spend with you and all the new adventures you will share together.

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5. Gardening in the Morning

One of the more common activities my mom had my sisters and me do during the summer was gardening. Since it is hot during the summer, it is best to do gardening in the morning before it gets too hot. Not only is gardening educational because your kids will learn how to take care of various plants and flowers, but it will also be a fun activity where they can get their hands dirty. Gardening can get messy, but just prepare everyone ahead of time that they will need to wash their hands as soon as they get inside.

If you are not keen on gardening, you could still enjoy some time with plants and flowers. Go to a home improvement store and look at the flowers with your children. If you are not up to having an entire garden, maybe you could try a small flower kit with your children. Normally, these start indoors, and you keep them in your windowsill until they are ready to be planted outside.

Since it is only one flower, it might not be as intimidating to you or your children. Start small and work your way up if you feel comfortable. It might be that one of your children has a knack for gardening or really enjoys it. Allow your children to explore their own interests and watch them blossom and bloom just like the flowers in your garden.

As always, feel free to add in your own unique summer activities as they come to mind. Maybe this could be going to the beach, checking out the summer reading program at the library, or trying an art class. There are endless opportunities to make your family’s summer unforgettable. Even if money is tight, most of the activities above cost little to no money. Summer fun doesn’t have to break the bank this year or any year.

Photo credit: ©Getty Images /RyanJLane

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Vivian Bricker obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Ministry, followed by a Master of Arts with an emphasis in theology. She loves all things theology, mission work, and helping others learn about Jesus. Find more of her content at Cultivate: https://cultivatechristianity.wordpress.com/. 

Originally published Wednesday, 09 July 2025.

Worrying about not having enough for whatever the future holds can really make us anxious. The name Jehovah-Jireh focuses on how God promises to meet all of our needs. The Bible mentions this name of God during one of the most difficult times in Old Testament father Abraham’s life. God told him to sacrifice his only son, Isaac, on Mount Moriah. Abraham, showing amazing faith, obeyed, trusting that God would provide. Just as Abraham was about to sacrifice Isaac, an angel of the Lord called out to him. Then, Abraham saw a ram caught in a bush nearby, which he offered instead of Isaac.

In Genesis 22:14, Abraham named that place “The Lord Will Provide.” God sees what we need before we even know it and makes sure we have it. For us, praying to God as Jehovah-Jireh is a strong cure for worrying about our needs. It reminds us that God isn’t caught off guard by the stressful situations in our lives. He has already seen what we need and has a plan to provide. While God won’t always give us what we want (because we sometimes want what’s not really best for us), God will always give us what we truly need according to his purposes for each of us.

Jesus encourages us in Matthew 6:33: “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” When we call God Jehovah-Jireh, we can increase our confidence and trust that he will provide everything we need, whenever we need it. 

Related Resource: Resting in the God Who Provides (Jehovah-Jireh)

When we encounter painful and frightening circumstances, or God calls us to do something difficult, we may feel as if we’re all alone. As if God doesn’t see us, doesn’t understand our struggle, or won’t provide what we need. But as our guest Ava Pennington reminds us, our God doesn’t change. The same God called Jehovah-Jireh in Scripture, the God who provides, can be trusted to provide for us in our times of need as well. If this episode helps you face fear with God’s confidence, be sure to subscribe to Faith Over Fear on Apple or Spotify so you get new episodes every week!

Photo Credit: Thinkstock/EwaPix 

So you’ve started a new routine and you are learning what works well and what doesn’t. Give yourself grace and evaluate how you can best succeed at this. Make changes as needed but don’t stop showing up. Get to your spot and be there on time! God will never miss a meeting with you! He will be there again and again and again.

“The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness” (Lamentations 3:22-23).

8. Try Again

If you fail, try again. We are all human and there will be days when you get up late, the kids are sick, the dishwasher overflows, or life just happens to throw everything off track. Let it go and begin again. Do not let a missed day or two or ten stop you from developing a deeper walk with God. Get back to it!

Like I mentioned earlier, it is like any new habit. There will be good days of success and days when it is harder to keep going. But if you do keep going, you are sure to reap the benefits of a richer life in Christ.

“And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up” (Galatians 6:9).

Are you ready to begin a refreshed or new morning Bible study routine? I would love to hear how you are planning to move forward. Tell me by sending me a message or share your plan with a friend and get started today! You are as close to God as you choose to be.

Related Resource: How to Experience More of Jesus

Faith often becomes a checklist—prayer, scripture study, ministry—rather than a living, breathing relationship with Jesus. In this episode of the Unhurried Living Podcast, Alan Fadling speaks with bestselling author and teacher John Eldredge about shifting from a performance-based spiritual life to one rooted in presence, intimacy, and encounter.

We talk about how to slow down in a world that values hustle, how to rediscover wonder in the midst of cynicism, and how to create personal rhythms that foster authentic connection with Jesus. If you long to experience Jesus—really—this conversation is for you. f this episode helps you recenter your work and life on God, be sure to subscribe to Unhurried Living on Apple or Spotify so you never miss an episode!

Photo credit: Unsplash/Nathan Dumlao

While our culture often tells us that liberty means freedom from responsibilities, the Bible tells us that experiencing true freedom can inspire us to want to take on responsibilities when God calls us to do so. The ways God calls us to serve help us live into our purpose and lead us to fulfillment as we put our God-given interests and talents into action.

Ironically, we can find the greatest liberty in seeking God’s will instead of our own will. Galatians 5:13 advises us: “You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love.” God calls us to be free, but he wants us to use that freedom for service rather than selfish indulgences.

When we serve God, we line ourselves up with God’s perfect plan. As a result, we gain more meaning and direction than any amount of worldly freedom can give us. Serving in ways like helping people in need is an important way to thank God for all the true freedom he gives us. The Bible urges us in 1 Peter 2:16: “Live as free people, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live as servants of God.” Our liberty is a blessing that we should use responsibly, for service that God leads us to do. 

In conclusion, reflecting on liberty through a biblical lens shows us that liberty means more than the way people often talk about it: simply being free to do whatever we want. True liberty frees us to put love into action, overcome fear and sin, be empowered by the Holy Spirit, know God’s truth, forgive, and serve with purpose. As we live out these biblical principles, we can enjoy more liberty in our lives and also help bring more liberty into our world!

Photo Credit: ©iStock/Getty Images Plus/FredFroese 

Because the Founders were Christians, devout to some degree, or Deists, they believed every person was created by God and carried the inherent image of God. This core identity made everyone equal in value, none more than another. This idea comes from Judeo-Christian ethics alone. No other religion of the ancient world espoused this. 

Paul points to the spiritual value of every person in Galatians 3:28. “There is neither Jew nor Gentile, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” Our intrinsic value goes deeper than the external and the seen, to the spirit. And no human law bestows this value; it comes directly from the divine Creator. Therefore, Thomas Jefferson wrote in the Declaration of Independence, “All men are created equal, endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights.” Unalienable means those rights are so basic to humanity, and given by God, that no earthly person or power can separate them. 

Unfortunately, the Founders struggled to apply this fully, compromising with some Americans who actively participated in slavery. Even so, this idea influenced the abolitionist movement (the cause to end slavery) from even before the Revolutionary War and undergirds the fight for equality up to today. 

These civil rights movements have improved the country and made great strides. However, we still wrestle with division, inequality, and racism. We must remember where this ideal came from, the Creator, and was expressed in his written Word, so we need to return to God to have the unity and equality we desire. Equality didn’t come from a humanistic or atheistic source, but from God. It’s a Gospel truth for us to seek in everyday interaction and public policy. 

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Hebrews 10:36 says:

“You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what He has promised.”

Not when you get it all right. Not when you crush every goal. Not when you’re perfect. When you persevere. In other words: just don’t quit. Some of the most powerful people I know aren’t necessarily the smartest, loudest, or most gifted. They’re the ones who consistently showed up.

They kept showing up in prayer.
Kept showing up in the Word.
Kept showing up in obedience, even when no one else saw it.

And over time, God honored it. He always does.

Keep Showing Up

I don’t know what promise you’re clinging to. I don’t know what area of your life feels stuck, stagnant, or silent. But I do know this: Everything God has for you is on the other side of consistency.  Not your best day. Not your most inspired moment. But your everyday faithfulness.

Keep sowing.  Keep forgiving.  Keep trusting.  Keep obeying.

Because the life you desire, the peace you seek, the achievements you long to see—it’s not found in spurts of inspiration. It’s discovered in the daily, sometimes mundane, but always sacred decision to keep going. And when you do? You’ll wake up one day and realize the promise wasn’t delayed. It was developing. Because God was never building the thing. He was building you.

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Paul called early Christians “brother” even when he was admonishing them — which he often did, as he worked to explain God’s enduring love and Christ’s saving sacrifice on the cross. Consider Paul’s critical task; to grow the new Church and to spread Jesus’ message to all mankind. Paul took this task seriously, and also took seriously his leadership role.

In calling others “brother” and “sister” Paul immediately shows, with a simple affectionate salutation, that he does not feel himself above the people, but instead, with the people. Leaders today could do well to emulate Paul; a good leader encourages and supports others, but never puts himself personally above others.

Paul was also a loving leader, concerned for his team. In 2 Corinthians 2:13, Paul writes, “I still had no peace of mind, because I did not find my brother Titus there. So I said goodbye to them and went on to Macedonia.”

Here’s the backstory: With some anguish, Paul had written a letter to tell the Corinthians, telling them that they must correct a man among them (we don’t know what this man had done, but it was likely something against Paul or the Gospel). Paul had earlier sent Titus, himself an early missionary and church leader, ahead with this letter that grieved him to write, and he was expecting to meet Titus in the town of Troas, a Greek city located on the Aegean Sea, to learn the Corinthians’ response to it.

Paul did not find Titus in Troas, however. His co-worker in ministry was missing, causing Paul to feel “restless in his spirit.” Was Paul worried that something bad had befallen Titus? Was this a concern for their ministry? Unable to concentrate on the ministry, Paul returned to Macedonia. 

Paul shows concern for his brother — a man who was essentially his co-worker — in spreading the gospel. And in 1 Corinthians 4:17, he calls another brother in Christ, Timothy, his “son whom I love, who is faithful in the Lord.” Paul led from the heart; a heart for Christ, and a heart for his fellow man.

If you are a leader today, are you identifying with those you lead as individuals? And do you feel care and concern in your heart for them? If those you lead feel you care about their lives, they will often move heaven and earth to get things done for you. As President Ronald Reagan once said, “The greatest leader is not necessarily the one who does the greatest things. He is the one that gets the people to do the greatest things.” You cannot do this without identifying with those you lead.

Providence is an interesting word, commonly used to refer to God, but also to His divine will and the force through which God exerts that will on earth. When reading the writings of the Founding Fathers, they often would refer to Providence as acting during the course of the war.

George Washington wrote, “By the all-powerful dispensations of Providence, I have been protected beyond all human probability and expectation; for I had four bullets through my coat, and two horses shot under me, yet escaped unhurt, altho’ death was levelling my companions on every side.” In the mind of the men and women during the Revolution, God was on their side.

Other mentions of Providence or God’s will as it relates to the war or the founding of America as a country by the Founding Fathers include:

Samuel Adams

“The right to freedom being the gift of God Almighty, it is not in the power of man to alienate this gift and voluntarily become a slave.”

Benjamin Franklin

“Whoever shall introduce into public affairs the principles of primitive Christianity will change the face of the world.”

“Here is my Creed. I believe in one God, the Creator of the Universe. That He governs it by His Providence.”

“Rebellion to tyrants is obedience to God.” 

Alexander Hamilton

“For my own part, I sincerely esteem it a system, which, without the finger of God, never could have been suggested and agreed upon by such a diversity of interests.”

Patrick Henry

“Three millions of people, armed in the holy cause of liberty, and in such a country as that which we possess, are invincible by any force which our enemy can send against us. Beside, sir, we shall not fight our battles alone. There is a just God who presides over the destinies of Nations, and who will raise up friends to fight our battles for us.”

James Madison

“We have staked the whole future of American civilization, not upon the power of government, far from it. We have staked the future of all of our political institutions … upon the capacity of each and all of us to govern ourselves … according to the Ten Commandments of God.” 

George Washington

“It is the duty of all Nations to acknowledge the providence of Almighty God, to obey his will, to be grateful for his benefits, and humbly to implore his protection and favors.”

“Since we ought to be no less persuaded that the propitious smiles of Heaven, can never be expected on a nation that disregards the eternal rules of order and right, which Heaven itself has ordained: And since the preservation of the sacred fire of liberty, and the destiny of the Republican model of Government, are justly considered as deeply, perhaps as finally staked, on the experiment entrusted to the hands of the American people.”

In the minds of the Founding Fathers, whether they were Christian or deist, they did believe that God and His Providential will were behind their efforts to separate from England and their victory.

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Dear God, please start a nationwide spiritual awakening this July Fourth. It sometimes feels like there’s a spiritual laziness that has fallen over many people – even people who say they follow you. We all need to be refreshed spiritually. Your Word in Acts 3:19 calls us to: “Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord.”

Please let a time of refreshment sweep across the United States. Spark a hunger for you in the hearts of people from all walks of life. Let them be hungry for holiness that leads to closer relationships with you. Help all Americans understand sin and their need for you. Let them feel your love for them in ways that inspire them to move closer to you.

Please revitalize U.S. churches. Make them all places of passionate prayer and worship, with successful outreaches to their communities. Help all believers in our country share your Gospel message in fresh ways, with love and courage. Let all Americans learn about the ultimate hope you offer them. Thank you, God. Amen. 

In conclusion, as the fireworks light up the sky this July Fourth, let’s spread God’s light by praying for a revival in our nation. As we pray for revival and live in ways that show we’re ready for it, God will answer our prayers in powerful ways!

Related Resource: Reviving the Church: Discipleship, Worldview, and Spiritual Hunger in America

Host Jeff King is joined by Judge Phil Ginn, President of Southern Evangelical Seminary, for a powerful discussion on the current landscape of faith, culture, and religious freedom in America. Together, Jeff and Judge Ginn dive deep into the challenges facing the American church today: from declining discipleship and the lack of effective evangelism to the pressures of “wokeness” and the battle to maintain a biblical worldview in an increasingly secular society. If you want more content on religious freedom and revival, follow Faith Under Fire on Apple or Spotify, so you never miss an episode.

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“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” Acts 1:8

Dear Lord, as I travel abroad in foreign countries, let me be a good representative of my country and, most importantly, a good witness for Christ. On the long plane ride, when I might be tired and become grumpy, let me still be kind and courteous to the flight attendants and those sitting near me on the plane. Don’t let me become impatient or demanding, and please give me patience when things aren’t going my way.

When I’m in other countries, whose ways are different from what I’m used to, let me enjoy their culture and be understanding of language differences. Don’t let me shy away from greeting someone with my normal “God bless you” or “Have a blessed day.” Let me show that I’m a Christian with no need to say that I am. Let my actions and words show love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control, and thankfulness. 

Give me tolerance when lines are long or I don’t understand foreign road signs, language, or cultural traditions. Keep a smile on my face even when I’m weary and may become impatient. As I pray before my meals, remind me to ask others around me if they, too, would like to pray with me. No matter where I go, especially abroad, I am Your representative, and I pray that others would see You clearly in me. You are the Father of all races, creeds, and nationalities. Let me not become judgmental or critical of things I don’t understand in other countries, but be respectful of our differences that shouldn’t divide us. You are universal wherever I go. Praise God! Amen.

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When the BBQ is over, and the fireworks are spent, end your 4th of July celebration with a time of prayer. Pray for every state, city, and community to turn their hearts toward Jesus in repentance, belief, and salvation.

Here are a few Scriptures to pray aloud this 4th of July:

Isaiah 61:1: “The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me, because the Lord has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives.”

John 8:36: “So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.”

2 Corinthians 3:17: “Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.”

Lord, I pray a special blessing over our nation today, asking You to touch the heart of every American near and far. Remind us that our freedom to worship You is a sacred blessing not to be taken for granted. We are deeply grateful for Your patience and provision. Turn our attention to Your truth—the Gospel truth—and keep our eyes on Jesus. In His name, amen.

Related Resource: Reviving the Church: Discipleship, Worldview, and Spiritual Hunger in America

Host Jeff King is joined by Judge Phil Ginn, President of Southern Evangelical Seminary, for a powerful discussion on the current landscape of faith, culture, and religious freedom in America. Together, Jeff and Judge Ginn dive deep into the challenges facing the American church today: from declining discipleship and the lack of effective evangelism to the pressures of “wokeness” and the battle to maintain a biblical worldview in an increasingly secular society. If you want more content on religious freedom and revival, follow Faith Under Fire on Apple or Spotify, so you never miss an episode.

Photo credit: ©Getty Images/LeoPatrizi

“There is no faithfulness or steadfast love, and no knowledge of God in the land; there is swearing, lying, murder, stealing, and committing adultery; they break all bounds, and bloodshed follows bloodshed.” – Hosea 4:1b-2

 The first three chapters of Hosea’s book provide a powerful example of the heart-wrenching nature of Israel’s spiritual unfaithfulness. Instead of pursuing the Lord, they were chasing after false gods and the false promises that are intertwined with those false beliefs.

 Hosea was living and ministering in the midst of a day when true spiritual devotion was missing. The people of Israel wanted the best of the world, but didn’t concern themselves with eternal matters. In their worship of Baal, they bought into false beliefs that appealed to the lusts of the flesh, and as they kept feeding these lusts, they drifted further and further from the truth God had revealed in His word. That, in turn, resulted in the people of the land treating each other in terrible ways.

 I’m sure if you were to interview some of the people of Hosea’s day, they would have told you they were spiritually devoted followers of the Lord. But even a quick glimpse at their lives would show that their so-called faith was barely skin-deep.

 It wasn’t popular for him to do so, but Hosea called out their spiritual shallowness when he declared that the people were not faithful, lacked steadfast love, and didn’t know the true and living God in a personal way. They thought of themselves as mature, but their lives confirmed their lack of genuine belief.

 One of the most obvious and easy to understand aspects of God’s will is His moral will which He has revealed in His word, most obviously in the Ten Commandments. The Ten Commandments aren’t mysterious and hard to understand. They’re clear and direct. But look at the way Hosea described the lives of the people of Israel during his day.

 The people of Israel had foul mouths; they lied continually, and they practiced murder, theft, and rampant adultery. Their assessment of their spiritual lives was inaccurate. Though they seemed to believe they were spiritually strong, their lives revealed and confirmed the immaturity of their faith.

 There is a lesson for us in this passage as well. The fruit that comes from my life will show you what I really believe. Likewise, the same is true of you. If we are followers of Jesus Christ, we will trust Him in all circumstances, obey His teaching, avoid searing our consciences, and treat other humans as fellow image-bearers.

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As mentioned, we have freedom in Christ because of the debt He paid for us. Jesus died on the cross for us to be saved. As the Apostle Peter says, “‘He himself bore our sins’ in his body on the cross, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; ‘by his wounds you have been healed’” (1 Peter 2:24). By Jesus’ wounds we have been healed. True freedom is shown to us by Jesus dying for our sins and giving us freedom from death and sin.

While we will all still die and continue to sin, the Lord has given us lasting freedom. When we die, it is not the end, nor will we go to hell. Instead, we will be taken up to be with the Lord forever in Heaven (John 3:16-17). In the same way, we will all continue to sin, but Jesus has given us the strength to overcome sin. The writer of Hebrews tells us, “Because he himself suffered when he was tempted, he is able to help those who are being tempted” (Hebrews 2:18). 

We have been given the gift of salvation through Jesus Christ, and this is the greatest reason to give God thanks. This Independence Day, remember the freedom you have in Christ and how it is far-reaching. It is because of the Lord’s sacrifice that we are freed. The wonderful gift of salvation will endure forever, and it will never be taken away. 

“Dear God, thank You for Your wonderful gift of salvation through Your Son. It is only because of Jesus that I have true freedom. Thank You for this freedom, and help me to reflect upon it this Independence Day. I praise You and I thank You, Amen.”

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Amid the conflict this week, an airstrike hit the gates of Iran’s notorious Evin Prison in the capital of Tehran – a place where at least 11 Christians are believed to be detained for their faith. Long known as a place of overcrowding and poor conditions, Christians face great spiritual isolation there. 

What to pray:

“Heavenly Father, strengthen imprisoned believers. Be their advocate before unjust courts. Bring them hopeful visions of justice, comfort families left behind and let every cell echo with Your peace.”

Why Our Prayers Are Powerful — and Critical

Iran is ranked #9 globally on the Open Doors World Watch List, reflecting intense persecution, especially for converts from Islam. The current war magnifies all threats — bombings, repression, forced displacement, and increased scrutiny — making prayer more urgent than ever.

Despite challenges, the underground church continues to grow, sustained by satellite media and deeply personal faith journeys — a sign of God’s unstoppable work even in dark times.

Let us pray with purpose, forging spiritual solidarity and practical impact, lifting up those who cannot be seen, heard, or helped in any other way. Through prayer, we lend our voices, our hearts, and our hope. 

As the global Church, we are called to stand in solidarity through prayer — to comfort grieving families, protect underground communities, support aid efforts, and intercede for peace and rebuilding. May our focused prayer be a lifeline across the miles, as we offer not just empathy, but unwavering belief in God’s divine power.

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Like our emotions, we can focus on our own intellectual abilities. We like things to make sense to us. The world offers philosophies and “isms” for us to try and guide our thoughts and decisions. Yet the world’s messages promote self and personal ability and attainment. Despite how wise they seem on the outside, they shift our trust to ourselves instead of the Bible and the Spirit. God’s truth comes from another realm, heaven, and it humbles us with its mystery.

We must submit our intellect to faith and the Spirit, or else become slaves. “See to it that no one takes you captive through philosophy and empty deceit, according to human tradition, according to the elemental spirits of the world, and not according to Christ.” (Colossians 2:8) Worldly philosophies sound intelligent, and the world celebrates them. At the same time, academia often mocks faith and God’s miracles. However, these worldly philosophies are lifeless and empty apart from Christ, leading to pride and logical contradiction, as shifting the foundation to emotion.

God must choose to reveal himself, and when he does, our minds are renewed. Our very thinking changes to the eternal perspective, healing our heart, giving us security, and engaging our intellect in the right way. Submitting our intellect to the Spirit doesn’t dismiss our mind but redeems it. We then grow in the mind of Christ, which aligns with his whole character, and we gain insights, strength, peace, and hope. We grow wholistically in God’s born-again image in us.

Photo Credit: ©Getty Images/Mike Powell

A super fun recipe to try this year with your family for the Fourth of July is veggie burgers. They are very easy to make and are filling, delicious, and healthy. If you are used to having hamburgers, you might be hesitant to try a veggie burger, but give it a chance. It might become your new favorite dish for cookouts.

There are many brands of veggie burgers, but I recommend Boca and MorningStar Farms. Both of these brands have never disappointed my family, and I’m sure they will be instant classics with yours. The way you make a veggie burger depends on whether you are going to microwave, bake, or grill it. Most packages will give you directions; however, rest in knowing that they will take twenty minutes at most.

This is great for a holiday such as the Fourth of July. In addition to your veggie burger patty, you will also need hamburger buns, lettuce, cheese, and other vegetables and sauces. My mom specifically liked onions on her veggie burger, so maybe this will be a great addition to your own burger. Be creative and allow your children to build their veggie burgers with various toppings.
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Just because you have attracted or are in a relationship with a narcissist doesn’t mean you stay that way. There are many ways to empower yourself against their control and manipulation.

Set Clear Boundaries. You need to establish what your boundaries are and enforce them consistently. Narcissists will push to see how far they can go. When you enforce your boundaries regularly, it teaches them that certain behaviors they engage in won’t get a response from you. So they will either adjust their approach or find a new target.

Try the ‘Gray Rock’ method. Become uninteresting and boring. If they ask you a question, keep your responses brief, factual, and emotionally neutral. Don’t share personal information or potent emotions. This will starve the narcissist of the attention they seek, and they will look for alternative sources of supply elsewhere.

Work on emotional detachment. There is nothing a narcissist loves more than to get you riled up emotionally. Do your best to maintain your distance, recognize manipulation, and don’t share personal information. Also, practice techniques to help you handle the emotional stress and stay calm and focused on what your needs are.

Mirror their tactics. Mirroring their behavior and staying calm will show them they have less control over you.

When You Expose Their Lies, Be Thoughtful. To do this, document your interactions and ask open-ended questions. This way, you can challenge their dishonesty without confronting them. This will help you reinforce your stance and reclaim the narrative of the conversation.

Make sure you focus on self-care and support. Make sure you take part in activities you love and seek support from friends, family, and even professional counseling if you feel you need it. This will help you learn how to foster resilience and manage and recover from emotional exhaustion.

Using these techniques, you can reclaim the conversation, feel empowered, and maintain your inner peace.

If you recognize any of these things in yourself, I encourage you to work on changing to counteract attracting a narcissist. If you are living with a narcissist, I highly encourage you to get help, make a plan, and get out. Your physical, mental, and emotional health is not worth it. You deserve to live in peace, not chaos and upheaval. To live peaceful and free, in all God called you to be.

Read More:

10 Warning Signs of a Spiritual Narcissist

5 Signs the Person You Love Is a Narcissist

7 Ways to Set Boundaries with Grace

A family fun activity you could try for the Fourth of July could also be a family bike ride. In my city, bike riding has been growing in popularity and I’ve been thinking about picking it back up. I rode my bike a lot during high school; however, I fell out of practice by the time I graduated college. Whether you are a seasoned biker or trying to get back into things, a family bike ride could be the perfect addition to your Fourth of July celebrations.

When you are choosing a time for your family bike ride, try to plan either in the morning or in the evening. This will ensure nobody gets overheated. Make sure you also bring bottled water for everyone. Hydration is very important and on a day such as Fourth of July, it is even more important. If you and your family are going on a longer bike ride, it might be a good idea to pack water-based foods, such as watermelon or grapes.

By bringing bottled water and water-based foods, you can ensure nobody gets dehydrated. Children are more susceptible to getting overheated than adults, which is why they need to be closely monitored. If there is ever a time your child, your spouse, or yourself needs to take a break from riding their bikes because it is too hot or they are tired, choose to take a break. Even if you are short on time or if you want to get home, taking a five-minute break will benefit everyone.

One of the best examples of a friendship filled with green flags in the Bible is that of David and Jonathan. David and Jonathan loved each other selflessly and purely, as shown in 1 Samuel 18:1, “the soul of Jonathan was knit to the soul of David, and Jonathan loved him as his own soul.” Their friendship was beyond enjoying one another’s company; it was rooted in the Lord and in the desire to see His will accomplished. This meant Jonathan supported David, even when Jonathan’s own father, Saul, was against him. These two men remind us that godly friendship is something to pray for and pursue.

Godly friendships will yield a harvest of great fruit and a garden of green flags. They often result from seeking who God desires to walk alongside you in this season and are friendships only He could take credit for bringing about. Ask the Lord to reveal what He wants for you, specifically in friendships, and to highlight the green flags to be aware of and dearly esteem.

Related Resource: Trusting God’s Timing in a Hurry-Up World

Have you ever felt like you’re falling behind in life? Like everyone else is getting married, starting families, launching ministries, or stepping into their callings—while you’re still waiting? If so, you are not alone. And more importantly, you’re not too late. This week on The Love Offering podcast, I had the joy of speaking with Rebecca George about her new book, You’re Not Too Late: Trusting God’s Timing in a Hurry-Up World. In a culture that tells us to hustle, strive, and “make it happen,” Rebecca offers a beautiful invitation to wait well—to rest in God’s presence, release resentment, and find joy in the meantime.If you like what you hear, be sure to subscribe to The Love Offering on Apple or Spotify so you never miss an episode!

Fostering friendships takes time, energy, and communication. As adults, it can be difficult to build friendships because many individuals already have established friend groups. If you are someone who is trying to grow your friendships, know that you will need patience. True, genuine friends are hard to find, but they are out there. The Lord will help you in this area and direct you to great friends.

After you become acquainted with someone, it could be that you want to work on growing the friendship. This is a great thing to want because having friends can help you in many ways. Trusted Christian friends will be able to help you follow after God, remind you of God’s goodness, and be a source of support when times are hard. 

If you are looking to grow your friendships, here are five ways:

1. Pray for God’s Help 

One way to grow Christian friendships is to pray for God’s help. This is a helpful tip whether you are trying to find new friends or you are trying to grow your current friendships. If the former, ask for God to guide you to the right people. While this might feel like a vague prayer, it is actually very helpful. By asking for God’s help in prayer, you are acknowledging your dependence on Him.

Through acknowledging your dependence on Him, you are conveying the truth that you need God’s help, strength, and support. He will guide you to true friends and answer your prayers to help you find the right friends. You don’t need more fake friends or fair-weather friends. Instead, you need to have trustworthy, loyal friends. By praying for God to lead you to the right friends, you will find genuine friends who will be with you through the good and the bad. 

If you are trying to grow and cultivate your Christian friendships, still pray for God’s help. He will be able to help your friendships flourish. Ask Him to help you connect with your friends. You can also ask Him to help you be vulnerable with your friends for you to be closer to your friends. Through being vulnerable, your friends will also be more prone to being vulnerable and sharing their feelings with you. This is how deep, meaningful friendships grow. 

Photo Credit: ©Unsplash/Becca Tapert

2. Be Intentional

A second way to grow Christian friendships is to be intentional. Being intentional looks like sacrificing your own free time to spend with your friend, going out of your way to help them, and being by their side even during the hard days. Many people think being intentional is something that is too difficult for them, but that is not true. If we truly care about someone, we will be intentional in our relationship with them. We won’t “forget” their text message, nor will we go for days without replying to them for no good reason.

Instead, we will be intentional and go out of our way to help our friend. Many of us have faced fake friends, and they make us feel not good enough, weird, and even like a freak at times. These are not the type of people we need to spend time with. They will only make us feel bad about ourselves and cause us to second guess every decision we make. You deserve to have real Christian friends who are going to be intentional with you.

In the same way, we as individuals have to be intentional in our dealings with others. We don’t need to be passive, nor do we need to ignore our friends. If you have been in the habit of doing this, you have probably noticed that it doesn’t help your friendships. It probably does much damage and causes your friend to lose contact with you. Choose to be intentional and this will help you grow your Christian friendships. 

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3. Be a True Friend

A third way to grow Christian friendships is to be a true friend. In order to have a friend, you have to be one. A true friend doesn’t lie, hurt, or purposely cause trouble for their friend. If you have ever known someone like this, you know it can be very damaging. When a friend betrays our trust, it can cause us to completely shut down. This is why it is important that we are a true friend to others as well as the people we are trying to befriend.

Normally, we can tell a lot about a person by the way they treat others. If they are not kind to other people or talk bad about people behind their back, they are probably not a good friend. If you see someone do this, don’t choose to invest time into them. Instead, look for true friends who will truly support you. Similarly, be a true friend to others. Growing Christian friendships will need to be based on true friendships—not on lies and betrayal. 

Photo Credit: ©Getty Images/MangoStar_Studio

4. Spend Quality Time with Them

A fourth way to grow Christian friendships is to spend quality time with those people. Through spending quality time with them, you will be able to get to know them better and learn more about them. No friendship can grow without spending time with each other. Try to spend a few days each month with them. Don’t pull out your phone and don’t be distracted by other things.

Focus on what they are saying and what they are talking about. You might find you have many shared interests, and this will help you bond closer in your friendship. Also, by spending time with them, you will be able to connect with them on a deeper level. Instead of just knowing a few things about them, they will start feeling better about sharing struggles, problems, and prayer requests with you. This will be the start and growth of a beautiful friendship.

Photo Credit: ©Getty Images/Thomas Barwick

5. Establish Common Christian Interests

A fifth way to grow Christian friendships is to find a common interest. This could be finding out each other’s favorite Bible verses, book of the Bible, or teaching from the Lord. By connecting on these things, you will be able to grow more in your friendship. This can also be done by sharing the same favorite Christian artist, song, or worship group. By sharing these common interests, you will have a foundational truth to establish your friendship.

While it is possible to be friends with someone who does not have the same interests as you, it can be hard to grow a deep friendship with them. If you have nothing in common, or they dislike things that you like, it can cause friction in the friendship. Both of you should respect each other’s interests, but if you have nothing in common with each other, it will be hard for the friendship to grow. 

Growing your Christian friendships is a beautiful thing as well as it is a wonderful thing to make new friends. Christian friends will be able to point you back to Christ and be someone you can go to when you are struggling. You should feel safe and secure with your friends. They should be a safe place for you, just as you are for them. Ask the Lord to grow your friendships and He will help you in more ways than you can imagine. 

Photo Credit: ©Ben White/Unsplash

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Vivian Bricker obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Ministry, followed by a Master of Arts with an emphasis in theology. She loves all things theology, mission work, and helping others learn about Jesus. Find more of her content at Cultivate: https://cultivatechristianity.wordpress.com/. 

Originally published Wednesday, 18 June 2025.

God is the giver and taker of life. We will never fully understand his ways and why some lives are cut short. Yet, he is still a good God and deserves our praise.

Prayer is a way to offer our thoughts and feelings to the Lord. We can lament our loss. We can ask God the hard questions, confident that he will not leave or forsake us. He is our safe place through life’s storms.

Psalm 147:3 states, “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.”

God is our great healer. He mends our broken hearts, and his helping spirit gives us the strength to walk through the valley. Lean into him as you process your grief and the uncertainty that the future brings.

John 14:26 states, “But the Helper, the Holy Spirit whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and remind you of all that I said to you.“

We may not understand the losses we bear, and we often must lament the brokenness we see in the world, but the good news is we don’t have to handle these mysteries on our own. Lean into God’s helping spirit as a couple. Ask him for guidance, reassurance, strength, peace, and understanding. He is a great teacher, and he uses our life stories to show us more about who God is, even the tough things.

After our pregnancy loss, I realized first that the kids we did have were such miracles! Life is so very fragile, and as a Mom, I have no power to sustain the lives of my kids. Only God places breath in their lungs and thoughts in their minds and grows them into the people he created them to be. Our loss brought a sense of humility in that I have so much less control over things than I’d like to imagine, and with this realization comes an invitation. We are invited to trust God even in the loss. To see that he is the only one who gives life and knows what a day will bring. Trusting God and going to him in prayer is not always easy, but it’s the safest place we can be in a very unsafe world.

Read More:

How to Heal after a Miscarriage

5 Biblical Promises to Remember After a Miscarriage

Ultimately, thriving while you’re waiting on God’s timing comes down to trusting His sovereignty. It’s about remembering that He is in control, He knows what He’s doing, and that He has a good plan for your life.

Even when you can’t see the path ahead, even when you don’t understand why things are happening the way they are, you can trust that God is working behind the scenes. He’s shaping you, molding you, and preparing you for something amazing.

And while you’re at it, I need you to hold onto this truth: “And 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).

There have been countless times in my life when I didn’t understand why God was allowing certain things to happen. Yes, I did question His wisdom. I doubted His love many times, and I even got angry with Him. But looking back, I can see how those difficult times shaped me, strengthened me, and prepared me for the blessings that were to come. And quite frankly, today I can confidently say that I’ve learned that God’s timing is always perfect, even when it doesn’t make sense to me.

Waiting Well: A Choice We Make

Waiting on God’s timing isn’t easy, but it doesn’t have to be a passive, frustrating experience. It can be a time of growth, transformation, and even joy. By embracing the present moment, tending your soul, redefining your definition of success, seeking godly counsel, and trusting God’s sovereignty, you can thrive while you wait.

Remember, God is with you. He loves you. And He has a good plan for your life. Trust Him, and allow Him to work in you and through you, even in the waiting.

Photo Credit: ©Unsplash/Matese Fields

“Parthians, Medes, and Elamites; residents of Mesopotamia, Judea and Cappadocia, Pontus and Asia, Phrygia and Pamphylia, Egypt and the parts of Libya near Cyrene; visitors from Rome (both Jews and converts to Judaism); Cretans and Arabs—we hear them declaring the wonders of God in our own tongues! (Acts 2:9-11). 

During Pentecost, individuals from all over traveled to see the beginning of the church. Within Acts 2:9-11, we see that Elamites were present at Pentecost. This demonstrates to us that many Elamites had heard about Jesus and wanted to come and learn more from the Apostles. While many people try to classify all of these groups together, the Bible clarifies that these are unique groups as they are individually named. 

The Parthians, Medes, Elamites, Cretans, and Arabs were all individual, distinct people who came to hear about the Lord and declare His praises. On Pentecost, each of these groups declared the wonders of God in their own tongue. Given that these individuals were all from different backgrounds, it would have been an amazing thing to witness all of them speaking about God in their own native languages. This attests to how God can do amazing things and bring all people into His family, including the Elamites. 

God had great plans for Elam that have already been fulfilled, and many more plans will be fulfilled in the future. Regardless of where we live, we need to continue to pray for Elam and ask the Lord to direct their path. God will help them and provide them with the protection, support, and encouragement they need. 

Related Resource: Wartime Update: Inside Israel’s Defining Conflict with Iran

Joel and Lynn Rosenberg provide a real-time update from Jerusalem on the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran—the most significant and dangerous war Israel has faced in eight decades. The episode covers the personal realities of living under missile threat, strategic developments, the emotional toll on Israelis, and the broader prophetic and geopolitical implications. Joel and Lynn invite listeners to pray for Israel, discuss God’s comfort in times of crisis, and answer pressing questions about the current situation. Want an informed, Biblical perspective on the Middle East? Subscribe to Inside the Epicenter on Apple or Spotify so you never miss an episode! 

Photo Credit: ©Getty Images/Andry Djumantara

Of all the issues shared in my one-on-one mentorship programs, fear is mentioned most often. In my own life, fear has kept me from moving forward in faith, hindered my trust in God, and burdened my thoughts like a heavy weight. 

Thankfully, we have a Savior who empowers us to pray against every fear. As Psalm 55:16-17 says, “But I will call on God, and the Lord will rescue me. Morning, noon, and night I cry out in my distress, and the Lord hears my voice.” At all times and in all ways, we have access to God’s help. 

If you’re tired of letting fear drive your life, here are seven prayers to pray:

1. Fear of Loss

My dad has always said to hold loosely the people and things we love most. There’s a lot of wisdom in his words, but I sometimes find myself white-knuckling my family in fear of losing them.

Philippians 4:6-7 says, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

What if, instead of fear, we presented our petitions to the Lord in faith, trusting Him to guard our hearts and minds with perfect peace? Here is a powerful prayer for fear of loss:

Heavenly Father, You know how fearful I am of losing someone close to me. Thank You for Your lovingkindness that overcomes my fear. I know that You love my family more than I ever could, and I entrust them to You today. I pray against every anxiety that tries to keep me bound, and I receive the truth of Your Word that reminds me You are for us, not against us. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Photo Credit: ©iStock/Getty Images Plus/Motortion

2. Fear of Harm

In a recent altercation at my grandson’s elementary school, total chaos erupted, and we were forced to evacuate the building. As we were running toward the parking lot, all I could think was how helpless I felt in protecting my family from harm. Thankfully, no one was hurt.

The fear of harm is growing in our world today, and understandably so. Even an ordinary trip to the grocery store is clouded by the thought that someone with ill intentions might cross our path. 

But God…He never intended for us to live in fear. Instead, He wants us to fully depend on Him for protection. Psalm 34:17-20 says, “The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them; he delivers them from all their troubles. The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. The righteous person may have many troubles, but the Lord delivers him from them all; he protects all his bones, not one of them will be broken.” With this in mind, here is a prayer when you’re fearful of harm:

Almighty God, in the refuge of Your presence, I find safety. You are a wall of protection around me and my family. Thank You for blocking the arrows of the evil one. I pray for the plans of the enemy to be thwarted now, in the mighty name of Jesus. I pray for many angels to surround each of my family members today. You are a strong tower, and I run to You for total protection and peace. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Photo Credit: ©iStock/Getty Images Plus/LumiNola

3. Fear of Suffering

When my husband’s grandfather passed away, we knew he was finally free from suffering and pain. Though he’d had wonderful hospice care, it was difficult to watch his health decline and his pain increase. We wondered why the Lord allowed him to go through prolonged suffering when he’d been such a godly man of faith. 

Fear of suffering hinders the confidence we have in Christ. It causes an unnecessary sense of dread that steals our joy. 2 Timothy 1:12 says, “That is why I am suffering as I am. Yet this is no cause for shame, because I know whom I have believed, and am convinced that he is able to guard what I have entrusted to him until that day.” 

If you’re fearful of suffering, or are saddened by a loved one who is suffering, here is a comforting prayer of faith:

Lord Jesus, I know that You are acquainted with pain and suffering, and You care for each of us deeply. Thank You for being able to sympathize with us and walk with us through hardship. I break agreement with the fear of suffering today, and I come boldly to Your throne to ask for comfort and peace. Please remove the sting of death and wash over us with divine hope and healing today, in Jesus’ name, amen.

Photo Credit: ©iStock/Getty Images Plus/gorodenkoff

4. Fear of Economic Downturn

During a recent grocery store pick up, I watched as the clerk wheeled my $180 worth of groceries to the car. I couldn’t believe how few containers were on his cart! In years past, that same dollar amount would have purchased double the groceries. (I know many of you can relate.)

The fear of economic downturn is a very real concern, and in some ways, we are already experiencing it. So, how does God expect us to view this reality, and how is He providing in the midst of it?

Philippians 4:19 says, “And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.”  What a wonderful passage to remind us that God is our Jehovah-Jireh, our Provider. 

Jesus illustrated a beautiful word picture in Matthew 6:25-27, saying, “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life?”

Your life is valuable, my friend. You can count on your Heavenly Father to provide for you. Release your worries to Him and look at the birds of the air as a beautiful example of His faithfulness.

Lord God, please forgive me for fearing economic uncertainty and the financial strain it puts on our families. You have shown us how You care for Your creation, and I can trust You to provide exactly what we need. You are a generous, gracious Father, and I release all financial worries to you today. In Jesus’ name.

Photo Credit: ©Vladimir Solomianyi/Unsplash

5. Fear of Loneliness 

Loneliness isn’t only a problem for the isolated or elderly; it’s a reality for people of all ages. Even when surrounded by others, it’s easy to feel alone. It may be that others don’t understand us, agree with us, or even want to be around us, and that’s a hard pill to swallow.

Psalm 68:5-6 says, “A father to the fatherless, a defender of widows, is God in his holy dwelling. God sets the lonely in families, he leads out the prisoners with singing.” When fear of loneliness hovers like a dark cloud, we can look to God for help. He is our true Father, Defender, Redeemer, and Friend.

Gracious God, thank You that You never leave or forsake me. You are with me always, even to the end of the age. I bring my hurts and fears of isolation to You, asking You to draw me close. I also ask for trusted relationships – relationships that build my faith and provide Christ-centered camaraderie. I will not fear loneliness, but instead, embrace Your faithful presence. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Photo Credit: ©Unsplash/Jordan Steranka

6. Fear Concerning Loved Ones

I thought once my kids were raised, I wouldn’t have to worry as much. How wrong I was! I find myself praying even harder for their physical well-being, their hearts toward God, and each of their unique challenges.

1 Thessalonians 5:8-11 says, “But since we belong to the day, let us be sober, putting on faith and love as a breastplate, and the hope of salvation as a helmet. For God did not appoint us to suffer wrath but to receive salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ. He died for us so that, whether we are awake or asleep, we may live together with him. Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.”

What I love most about this passage is the encouragement to build each other up. I want to be the kind of person who always builds up and never tears down. One of the best things I can do is pray consistently for my loved ones. Prayer overrides fear.

Lord, please put Your hedge of protection around each of my loved ones – from youngest to oldest and everyone near and far. Call them each by name and draw them close to Your side. Let Your righteous right hand guide them, picking them up when they stumble and setting them on the path of righteousness for Your name’s sake. I release my fear, and instead, declare words of life, hope, and truth over them. In Jesus’ holy name, amen.

Photo Credit: ©GettyImages/WoraweeMeepian

7. Fear of the Future

My husband and I have had countless discussions about the state of the world and an unknown future. But we’re always brought back to the fact that nothing escapes God’s sovereignty. We trust what the Bible says and hold fast to God’s promises.

Isaiah 40:31 says, “But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” This assures us we don’t have to fear the future because our hope is in God. He renews and strengthens, provides and protects. 

Holy God, I trust that You know the beginning from the end. You see the eternal timeline, and nothing happens without Your knowledge. All that’s going on in the world right now is not a surprise to You. There is no fear of the future because I will spend eternity in Your presence. Please remind me of this in the days to come, in Jesus’ name, amen.

Photo Credit: ©GettyImages/Rasica

Jennifer Waddle is the author of several books, including Prayer WORRIER: Turning Every Worry into Powerful Prayer, and is a regular contributor for LifeWay, Crosswalk, Abide, and Christians Care International. Jennifer’s online ministry is EncouragementMama.com where you can find her books and sign up for her weekly post, Discouragement Doesn’t Win. She resides with her family near the foothills of the Rocky Mountains—her favorite place on earth. 

Originally published Thursday, 12 June 2025.

We’ve all been there, haven’t we? That place where the prayers feel hollow, the scriptures seem distant, and the whole “faith thing” feels like a crumbling building about to collapse on top of us.

I’m not going to pretend I haven’t tasted that bitter brew. I remember a time, not too long ago, actually, when my business was on the brink and my family was facing challenges that felt insurmountable. I was going through it. I mean, I was really going through it. Doubt crept in like harmattan dust, clouding everything.

But, and this is a BIG but, God showed up. He always does. He met me in my mess, my doubt, and my despair. He reminded me that His grace isn’t contingent on my performance or a perfect faith. It’s a gift, freely given, especially when we need it most.

So, let’s explore these five ways to tap into that grace, shall we? Let’s dig deep and find that lifeline when our faith feels like a total disaster. I promise you, there’s hope. There’s always hope in Jesus.

Here we go:

1. Embrace the Honesty of Lament

Okay, let’s get real. In Nigerian culture, especially within the church, we sometimes feel pressured to always present a picture of unwavering faith. We’re supposed to be “strong in the Lord” and “rejoice always,” right? But what happens when we’re not? What happens when we’re angry, confused, and downright disappointed with God?

Well, I’m here to tell you it’s okay to be honest. It’s okay to lament. In fact, it’s biblical! Just look at the Psalms. David, a man after God’s own heart, wasn’t afraid to pour out his raw emotions to God. He questioned, he complained, and he even accused God of abandoning him! (Psalm 22 is a prime example.)

Think about it. If God can’t handle our honest emotions, then what kind of God is He? He’s not some fragile deity who’s going to crumble because we express our pain. He’s the Almighty God, the Creator of the universe, and He can handle our anger, our doubt, and our frustration.

My personal story here involves that business I mentioned earlier. I had poured my heart and soul into it, praying for guidance every step of the way. When it started failing, I was furious. I felt betrayed. I remember standing in my room, shouting at God (yes, shouting!), asking Him why He had led me down this path only to let me fail.

Do you know what happened next? Silence. But it wasn’t a cold, distant silence. It was a pregnant silence, a silence that held space for my pain. And then, slowly, a gentle whisper began to emerge in my heart. It wasn’t an answer to my “why,” but it was a reassurance of His presence. It was a reminder that He was still there, even amid my failure.

How to Practice Lament:

Journal your honest feelings. Don’t censor yourself. Write down everything you’re feeling, even the ugly stuff. 

Pray raw prayers. Don’t try to sugarcoat things. Tell God exactly how you feel. 

Read the Psalms of lament. Let David’s words give you permission to express your own pain. 

Find a trusted friend or mentor. Share your struggles with someone who will listen without judgment.

Lamenting isn’t a sign of weak faith; it’s a sign of authentic faith. It’s about bringing our whole selves to God, even the messy parts.

Photo Credit: ©Getty Images/Vadym Pastukh

2. Remember His Past Faithfulness (The “Ebenezer” Principle)

When your faith feels like a disaster, it’s easy to forget all the times God has come through for you in the past. It’s like our brains are wired to focus on the negative and erase the positive. But that’s where the “Ebenezer” principle comes in.

In 1 Samuel 7:12, after God helped the Israelites defeat the Philistines, Samuel set up a stone and called it “Ebenezer,” saying, “Thus far the Lord has helped us.” It was a physical reminder of God’s faithfulness.

We need our own “Ebenezer” stones. We need to consciously remember the times when God showed up, answered our prayers, and provided for us in miraculous ways.

I remember when I was struggling to pay my school fees. I was about to drop out of university because I just couldn’t afford it. I prayed and prayed, but nothing seemed to change. Then, out of the blue, I got a website design gig, and the money was sufficient to pay the entire fee. It was a complete miracle!

Whenever I face financial difficulties now, I remember that Ebenezer moment. I remember how God provided for me then, and it gives me hope that He will provide for me again.

Remembering God’s past faithfulness is like building a fortress of hope in your heart. It’s a reminder that He is the same yesterday, today, and forever.

Photo Credit: ©GettyImages/Boonyachoat

3. Help Others, Even When You Don’t Feel Like It

When we’re in the midst of a faith crisis, it’s easy to become self-absorbed. We’re so focused on our own pain and struggles that we forget about the needs of others. But ironically, one of the best ways to find God’s grace is to help others, even when we don’t feel like it.

I know it sounds counterintuitive, but it works. When we take our eyes off ourselves and focus on serving others, we tap into a wellspring of God’s love and compassion. We begin to see our own problems in a new light, and we realize that we’re not the only ones struggling.

A friend once narrated his experience volunteering at a local orphanage during a particularly difficult time in his life. He was feeling hopeless and discouraged, but as he spent time with the children, playing with them, reading to them, and just being present with them, something shifted inside of him. Their joy and resilience reminded him of God’s goodness, and he began to feel a glimmer of hope again.

Serving others is a powerful way to break free from self-absorption and connect with God’s heart for the world.

Photo Credit: ©Getty Images/Zinkevych

4. Immerse Yourself in Scripture

When your faith is shaky, reading the Bible can feel like trying to decipher a foreign language. The words seem hollow, the stories seem irrelevant, and the whole thing just feels like a chore. But I urge you, don’t give up on Scripture.

Even when it feels difficult, even when you don’t understand everything you’re reading, immerse yourself in God’s Word. It’s like soaking yourself in a healing balm. The truth of Scripture will slowly penetrate your heart and begin to heal your wounds.

I remember during that business crisis, I couldn’t even bring myself to read the Bible for more than a few minutes at a time. But I made a conscious effort to read at least one verse each day. Sometimes, I would just read the same verse over and over again, meditating on its meaning.

And slowly, gradually, the Word began to work its way into my heart. Verses that I had read countless times before suddenly came alive with new meaning. I found comfort, hope, and guidance in the Scriptures, and it helped me navigate that difficult season.

How to Immerse Yourself in Scripture:

Start small. Don’t try to read the entire Bible in one sitting. Start with a few verses each day. 

Choose a specific book or topic. Focus on a particular area of Scripture that resonates with you. 

Gain a deeper understanding of the text. Use a study Bible or commentary. 

Listen to an audio Bible. Allow the Word to wash over you while you’re doing other tasks.

Scripture is a lifeline in times of trouble. It’s a source of truth, comfort, and guidance that can help you navigate even the darkest of seasons.

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5. Cling to the Community of Believers

When your faith feels like a disaster, the temptation is to isolate yourself. You might feel ashamed of your doubts, afraid of judgment, or simply too exhausted to connect with others. But isolation is the enemy of faith.

We are designed for the community. We need the support, encouragement, and accountability of other believers. When we’re struggling, our brothers and sisters in Christ can lift us up, pray for us, and remind us of God’s truth.

I remember during that dark period, I wanted to hide from everyone. I didn’t want anyone to see how much I was struggling. But a dear friend, a fellow believer, noticed that I was withdrawing and reached out to me. He didn’t judge me or try to fix me. He simply listened, prayed with me, and reminded me of God’s love.

His support was invaluable. It helped me feel less alone, less ashamed, and more hopeful. It reminded me that I was part of something bigger than myself, a community of believers committed to walking alongside me through the tough times.

The community of believers is a gift from God. It’s a place of love, support, and encouragement that can help you weather any storm.

God’s Grace Is Sufficient

I know what it’s like to feel like your faith is a total disaster. I’ve been there. But I also know that God’s grace is sufficient. He is faithful, even when we are faithless.

Don’t give up. Don’t lose hope. Embrace the honesty of lament, remember His past faithfulness, serve others, immerse yourself in Scripture, and cling to the community of believers.

And most importantly, remember that you are loved. You are valued. And you are not alone. God is with you, even in the midst of your mess. He will never leave you nor forsake you.

Hold on to that truth, and let it guide you back to the light of His grace.

Photo Credit: ©iStock/Getty Images Plus/whyframestudio

Emmanuel Abimbola is a creative freelance writer, blogger, and web designer. He is a devout Christian with an uncompromising faith who hails from Ondo State in Nigeria, West Africa. As a lover of kids, Emmanuel runs a small elementary school in Arigidi, Nigeria.

Originally published Tuesday, 10 June 2025.

God has given us what we need to know in the Bible, which is the Word of God. But not only that, I am so thankful that when Jesus ascended back to the Father, he put within us the Great Instructor and Teacher: the Holy Spirit that confirms and illuminates what we read and teaches us new things that we haven’t read yet. But to be clear, he does not speak on his “own authority” – meaning the Holy Spirit will never say something to you that contradicts what God has already said. We end up in error (and even with false religions) when we follow what we thought or felt that the Spirit said instead of making sure it lined up with the Bible.

But the Holy Spirit doesn’t just want us to hold on to the truth he gives us. Jesus said that in the Acts 1:8 “Great Commission” passage that we are given “power” from the Spirit to be his “witnesses” everywhere we go.

4. He Glorifies the Son.

The work that the Holy Spirit does in the world and in the life of believers will never glorify or point people to an individual; it will always point people to the Son of God, who takes away the sins of the world. There are so many people who stand up in front of crowds or in front of cameras claiming to have this gift or that gift from God, who conveniently end up padding their pockets and putting their name in lights. God uses people – absolutely. But in the end, whether you use your gifts in front of people or behind the scenes, and where you are from or far away on a mission field – it is all for the glory of God.

Nothing good comes from you being lifted up. A quick look at human history shows that to be true. But as Jesus said in John 12:32 that when we lift him up, he will “draw all people” to himself.

I encourage you to join me in taking time to examine the Scriptures from the Old Testament to New Testament to find out as much as you can about the Holy Spirit. You’ll still be left with a few mysteries for sure, but you’ll also be better at listening to, relying on, and being empowered by the Holy Spirit to live in this world.

Photo Credit: ©GettyImages/LillyRoadstones

I’m gratefully aware that it’s not my tendency to question the eternal nature of God. From the time I was a small child, I believed He always was, always is, and always will be. I don’t take my faith for granted, and I’m often humbled that the Lord planted such deep roots at such a young age.

Still, the more I read about God’s eternal nature woven throughout the Bible, the more I want to lean in and believe even more. As I’ve pondered the holy and divine attributes of our loving Creator, I’ve discovered seven Bible verses about His eternal nature:

1. His Eternal Power

“For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that people are without excuse.” Romans 1:20

I love the seemingly contrary phrases Paul used when he said, “invisible qualities” and “clearly seen.” God’s eternal power is an invisible quality that cannot be viewed with the naked eye, yet His creation displays it clear as day. 

From the intricate details of a bird’s feather to the innumerable stars in the night sky, God’s handiwork is laid before us in a visible and powerful array of His creativity. What a mighty and majestic God we serve!

We can rest assured in the unchanging nature of God, knowing He has absolute power, authority, and dominion. Everything is held together by His Son, as Colossians 1:15-18 says, “The Son is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. For in him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through him and for him. He is before all things, and in him all things hold together. And he is the head of the body, the church; he is the beginning and the firstborn from among the dead, so that in everything he might have the supremacy.”

Lord, thank You for Your eternal power and divine nature displayed throughout creation, in Jesus’ name, amen.

Photo Credit: ©Getty Images/FotoMaximum

2. His Eternal Protection

“The eternal God is your refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms.” Deuteronomy 33:27 

Of all the prayers I’ve prayed in my 50+ years of life, I’ve prayed more for God’s protection than any other request. I admit, I was that kind of parent – the helicopter kind – who hovered a little too much, trying to keep my family safe. 

Praise the Lord for His eternal protection promised in the Scriptures! What a comforting reminder that He watches over His beloved. As Isaiah encouraged, “Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord, the Lord himself, is the Rock eternal” (Isaiah 26:4).

The Lord Jesus is the Rock on which we stand, and the Rock in Whom we take cover. His presence is like a forcefield of resistance against the enemy’s onslaught, and we are safeguarded underneath His everlasting arms.

Lord, thank You for Your eternal protection and peace. We take refuge in Your loving care today, in Jesus’ name, amen.

Photo Credit: ©GettyImages/StockPhotosArt

3. His Eternal Love

“The Lord will vindicate me; your love, Lord, endures forever—do not abandon the works of your hands.” Psalm 138:8 

I have to remind myself often that God’s love doesn’t come and go or ebb and flow. It is constant, enduring, and eternal. As a follower of Christ, I am kept in the fold of God’s love from the lowest of depths to the highest of heights.

In Ephesians 3:16-19, Paul said, “I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.”

What beautiful imagery Paul uses to emphasize our inner being as the place where Christ’s love dwells. In Him, we are rooted, established, and empowered to grasp the width, depth, and height of His love. Beyond what we could ever think or imagine, God’s eternal love fills us to the full and remains with us every moment.

Lord, thank You for Your enduring love that dwells in my heart through Christ Jesus. Today, I remember Psalm 107: 1, which says, “Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever.”

Photo Credit: ©Getty Images/Tinnakorn Jorruang

4. His Eternal Holiness

“For thus says the One who is high and lifted up, who inhabits eternity, whose name is Holy: ‘I dwell in the high and holy place, and also with him who is of a contrite and lowly spirit, to revive the spirit of the lowly, and to revive the heart of the contrite.’” Isaiah 57:15 (ESV) 

At the end of your busy day, allow yourself to ponder the One who is high and lifted up, the One who inhabits eternity, and the One whose name is Holy. Holiness is an intrinsic part of God’s nature, and as His children, we are called to be holy as well. This doesn’t happen through self-righteousness or pride, but through lowliness of spirit and contriteness of heart.

Perhaps Isaiah’s vision described it best when he said, “In the year that King Uzziah died I saw the Lord sitting upon a throne, high and lifted up; and the train of his robe filled the temple. Above him stood the seraphim. Each had six wings: with two he covered his face, and with two he covered his feet, and with two he flew. And one called to another and said: ‘Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts; the whole earth is full of his glory!’” (Isaiah 6:1-3)

Lord, thank You for Your eternal holiness. I long to be holy as You are holy, in Jesus’ name, amen.

Photo Credit: ©GettyImages/Ig0rZh

5. His Eternal Word

“Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away.” Matthew 24:35

Years ago, my pastor shared something I’d never heard before. He read from Psalm 138:2, which says, “I will worship toward Your holy temple, and praise Your name for Your lovingkindness and Your truth; for You have magnified Your word above all Your name” (NKJV).

Did you catch that? God magnifies His Word above His name! Since learning this, I’ve been in awe of God’s promises that are unchanging and irrefutable. This has strengthened my devotion to hold everything in light of the Scriptures, letting God’s Word speak truth into every area of my life.

Psalm 119:160 says, “All your words are true; all your righteous laws are eternal.” This assures us we can count on every word that comes from the mouth of the Lord. The Scriptures aren’t antiquated writings for times past, but for today and all eternity. As Peter shared, “All people are like grass, and all their glory is like the flowers of the field; the grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of the Lord endures forever. And this is the word that was preached to you” (1 Peter 1:24-25).

Lord, thank You for Your eternal Word to lead and guide us in all truth. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Photo Credit: ©GettyImages/artisteer

6. His Eternal Glory

“Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.” Ephesians 3:20-21 

What do you picture when you think of God’s glory? Is it a bright light or a heavenly glow? Perhaps it’s an indescribable part of Him you can only hope to understand. One thing we know for certain is that God’s glory shines through Christ Jesus. Hebrews 1:3 (ESV) says, “He is the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of his nature, and he upholds the universe by the word of his power.”

In John 1:14, we read, “The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.”

Jesus is the light of God’s glory in this dark and dreary world. His grace and truth permeate even the most closed-off spaces, illuminating the hearts of people through every generation. What hope this gives us as we trust God to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine!

Lord, thank You for Your eternal glory that shines through Your Son, Jesus, forever and ever.

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7. His Eternal Life

“We know also that the Son of God has come and has given us understanding, so that we may know him who is true. And we are in him who is true by being in his Son Jesus Christ. He is the true God and eternal life.” 1 John 5:20 

Of all the things we know about God, His gift of eternal life through Christ Jesus is the most precious of all. The wonderful thing is, Jesus gives us the understanding to know the one true God and eternal life. What kindness! What grace!

Let’s make it our faithful prayer that everyone in our sphere of influence will know the Lord Jesus, truly know Him. Let’s pray for deep-rooted faith to keep trusting in our eternal Creator. The depths of God’s nature are found in the most precious gift ever given, the gift of eternity with Him.

Lord Jesus, thank You for being the Way, the Truth, and the Life.

Photo Credit: ©iStock/Getty Images Plus/Rasica

Jennifer Waddle is the author of several books, including Prayer WORRIER: Turning Every Worry into Powerful Prayer, and is a regular contributor for LifeWay, Crosswalk, Abide, and Christians Care International. Jennifer’s online ministry is EncouragementMama.com where you can find her books and sign up for her weekly post, Discouragement Doesn’t Win. She resides with her family near the foothills of the Rocky Mountains—her favorite place on earth. 

Originally published Thursday, 05 June 2025.

My dad was the classic tough-love type of dad. If I was hurt as a kid or something didn’t go my way, his advice was simple: suck it up, slap a Band-Aid on it, and keep going. He likely picked that up from his own father, whose famous line was, “Tough times don’t last, tough people do.” That mindset to tough it out and the pressure to be the rock and the protector of the family is a foundation on which many men build their idea of fatherhood. But somewhere in all that strength, we often forget that dads get knocked down sometimes, too. Even the toughest fathers need grace, support, and yes—our prayers.

Whether you’re a new father or grandfather or just a pops going through it, every dad can testify that fatherhood is no easy calling. There will be days when the weight of being the head of the house can be too heavy, even for the so-called “tough guy.” 

Despite their tough appearance, many fathers may be holding their marriage together, suppressing feelings of grief to avoid showing even a minuscule amount of weakness or quietly battling an addiction that maybe no one else sees. The truth is that dads often carry far more than they can handle alone. 

The good news is that God will not make them carry it all alone. His strength is made perfect in weakness. Isaiah 40:29-31 says this: “He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary; they will walk and not be faint.” 

These 10 prayers are for every dad, grandad, pap, papa, pops, and father who needs a fresh dose of God’s strength— no matter what season of fatherhood they are in.

Photo Credit: ©GettyImages/fizkes

Prayer for New Dads Finding Their Way

Becoming a father for the first time is a massive transition that is a beautiful blessing but can also be overwhelming. For all the new dads out there: remember, God doesn’t expect perfection. James 1:5: “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.” 

Lord, we ask that You hold close the fathers who step into this new role. Give them patience when they feel stretched thin, and allow them to rest when they are running on empty. Jesus, we ask that You provide guidance to all the new fathers who need it so they may raise their children according to Your will. In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

Photo Credit: ©Kelli McClintock on Unsplash

Prayer for Single Dads Navigating Parenthood Alone

As a single dad, carrying both roles – mother and father – can be exhausting, overwhelming, and in some cases isolating. Jesus doesn’t want you to carry this heavy load alone. He sees you and every late-night worry or hard decision you make for your family on your own. He promises in Isaiah 41:10, “Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God.” 

Jesus, please stay close to the single fathers who may feel lonely or isolated as they navigate the role of being both a mother and father for their family. We ask You, Lord, to offer single dads everywhere a strong support system and Christian community that can walk alongside them. Give them supernatural strength to keep going when they feel worn thin, Jesus. Help remind them they are never fathering alone with You by their side. In Jesus’ Name, we pray, Amen. 

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Prayer for Dads Facing Marital Challenges

Marriage can be one of the greatest gifts, but that doesn’t mean it doesn’t come with its challenges. When something goes awry in a marriage, a man’s first instinct may be to get angry or, for some, run away from the problem at hand. You may not have the answers to your marital problems, but instead of turning away, turn to prayer and Scripture. A popular verse and great reminder of how a man should treat his wife, Ephesians 5:25 says this: “Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.” 

Lord God, we ask that You would give the fathers struggling with marital challenges Your grace. Please teach these men to react to the trials and obstacles they face in Your image, Lord. Jesus, hold this marriage together in Your hands and surround this couple with love rooted in sacrifice, service, and grace. In Jesus’ Name, we pray, Amen. 

Photo Credit: ©fizkes

Prayer for Dads Dealing with a Health Crisis

For the dads dealing with medical problems, do not allow fear to make your spirit weak. It can be tough dealing with any unwanted diagnosis. As a dad who’s the protector of the home, it can leave you feeling weak, and depending on the diagnosis, your future can feel uncertain. But even through the valley, God is still with you and can take away your fears. Jeremiah 30:17 says, “But I will restore you to health and heal your wounds, declares the Lord.” 

Jesus, even when their bodies feel weak, please help the fathers who are dealing with health complications feel strong. Lord, remove their fear of the unknown and give them peace and rest in knowing You are the great physician and miracle worker. Please bring healing and endurance to keep those who are ill going. In Jesus’ Name, Amen. 

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Prayer for Dads Grieving a Deep Loss  

Every father, grandfather, even Godfather, will experience loss at some point in their life – we all do. But for dads trying to stay strong for everyone else, that grief can feel especially heavy, often leading to bottled-up emotions and silent suffering. Whether it’s the loss of a child, a spouse, a parent, or a close friend, the journey through grief can shake even the strongest men. Remember, it’s okay to let your family see you cry, and it’s okay to ask for help. God wired us for connection and community to share our empathy for others and our journey as we heal. You don’t have to walk through this alone.

Psalm 34:18 reminds us, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” Lord, we ask You to wrap the grieving fathers in Your arms. Let them know You are near, and they don’t have to suffer alone, God. Remind them, Lord, that You have the strength to give them when they feel like they have nothing left. Jesus, grant them a peace that makes no sense so they may see the light even through hard times. In Jesus’ Name, Amen. 

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Prayer for Dads Seeking Freedom from Addiction

Many fathers struggle behind closed doors with addiction, and others may not be so hidden. For many men, addiction can be a means to cope with unaddressed pain and childhood trauma, or maybe it’s a genetic addiction. Some fathers may feel like they’re in a constant battle with themselves or feel guilty for being unable to lead their family as they want. Whether it’s a hidden addiction or not, God already sees it, and He still loves you for it. He’s not waiting for you to clean yourself up- He’s waiting for you to come to Him in your mess. 1 Corinthians 10:13 assures us, “God is faithful; He will not let you be tempted beyond what You can bear. But when you are tempted, He will also provide a way out…” Freedom is possible if you surrender to Him. 

Lord, we ask that You help all fathers struggling with addiction to surrender to You, God. Whether they struggle with alcoholism, drug addiction, or any other dependency in secrecy, let them know freedom from the chains of addiction is possible through Jesus. Lord, give them the strength to acknowledge their problem, courage to seek help, and peace in knowing that You, Lord, are the redeemer of everything that’s broken. Bring light to those dads who feel they are in a dark place and walk side-by-side with them in their recovery journey. 

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Prayer for Dads under Financial Pressure  

Dads who take pride in being the providers for their families know that sometimes, financial pressure can turn into a heavy burden when the paycheck isn’t cutting it. This weight of not having enough can cause a build-up of anxiety and even shame. But God is our ultimate provider and He encourages fathers everywhere to lay every worry at His feet. Philippians 4:19 promises, “And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of His glory in Christ Jesus.” 

Jesus, we pray for Your daily wisdom for the fathers who provide for their families. Lord, we ask that You would give them faith to believe that Your timing is perfect, even when things feel tight. God, please encourage these dads to continue to work hard and seek Your guidance when it comes to financial burdens. Help them be not afraid to rest in knowing that at the end of the day, You will provide a way to make ends meet. He will not fail. In Jesus’ Name, we pray, Amen. 

Photo Credit: ©GettyImages/fizkes

Prayer for Dads Wrestling with Depression or Anxiety

Fatherhood brings so much joy, but it can also introduce a new set of pressures that can weigh heavily on a man’s mental well-being. The man of the house can sometimes have a hard time admitting when they’re not okay, but God sees past the mask. He understands the battles of depression and anxiety, even if it’s a silent battle within. The good news: fathers who put their hope in God can find joy and calmness to suppress their inner storms, all they have to do is trust God can give them the peace and stillness they’re searching for. Psalm 42:11 speaks to this, stating, “Why, my soul, are you downcast? …Put your hope in God.” 

Jesus, we ask You to untangle the messy thoughts of the fathers who are anxious and silence the dark voices of the depressed. Lord, reassure the fathers who feel lonely in their battle against depression and anxiety that You are there to deeply love them through their darkness. God, provide them with the knowledge that they can get through their sorrow if they only have hope in You, Lord. Shine Your light upon their hearts to find a way out. In Jesus’ Name, Amen. 

Photo Credit: ©Pexels/Nathan Cowley

Prayer for Dads with Strained Relationships with Their Children

Any broken relationship can weigh heavy on the heart, but the broken bond between a father and their child can run deep. Fathers who may not have a great relationship with their children can often feel like too much damage has been done or too much distance has grown for any mending to take place. But God’s healing power is never limited by time or brokenness. For the fathers who haven’t communicated with their children or the ones who have, but maybe didn’t say the right things, it’s not too late for God to rebuild relationships. Malachi 4:6 offers hope to fathers in saying, “He will turn the hearts of the fathers to their children, and the hearts of the children to their fathers.” God promises the bond between a father and his child is unbreakable. 

Lord, we ask that You would give the fathers with strained relationships with their children the courage and communication to take the first step in mending their family. Jesus, please heal the emotional wounds that words alone can’t fix. We ask that You would soften the children’s hearts and restore trust where it may have been lost. God, please help these dads to parent with wisdom, patience, and grace like Yours, Lord. Let them know they don’t have to be a perfect father, but just keep showing up and putting in the effort to be a father in Your image, Lord. In Jesus’ Name, we pray, Amen. 

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Prayer for Dads Who Feel Spiritually Empty or Lost

There may be fathers who feel like God feels far away, or prayers may feel unanswered. Seasons of spiritual dryness are normal, but they may leave Christian fathers unsure of how to lead their family in a Godly manner. This doesn’t mean, as a father, you have failed; it’s simply the roller coaster seasons of life that many experience. It’s easy to feel ashamed or unworthy, but take note of Psalm 63:1, which states this, “My soul thirsts for you, my whole being longs for you…” For the dads who may feel disconnected from God, pray for a revival in your heart. 

God, please lift up those fathers who are dry in spirit and need a spiritual revival, Lord. We know You can give them the desire to get back to You. Jesus, we pray for these dads to have a renewed hunger for Your word and feel the presence of the Holy Spirit working in them. Pour back into these fathers, restore their fire for You, Lord, and lead them into a deeper relationship than they’ve ever had before with You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Photo Credit: ©GettyImages/PeopleImages

Originally published Thursday, 05 June 2025.

Staying connected when life gets full is really hard. I want to be my husband’s best friend, but that is really hard to do when we work, our kids play sports, and we have a big family that requires a lot of time and attention. A lot of days, we barely make it to the end of the day sane, and we are so tired we have no space left to love each other well.

Yet, if we don’t make time to talk and support each other, we find that we quite quickly go from ships passing in the night to ships at war with each other. The narrative goes from “they are too busy to talk to me” to “they don’t love or value me. They don’t see me. I don’t even know them. Why am I married when the person I love doesn’t even know me?”

Marriage takes work and intentionality to be there for each other. We have to make time to share what’s on our minds, pray with each other, and just enjoy each other. If we don’t prioritize each other, the enemy will quickly take advantage of our possibly unintentional disconnection and make it a reason to grow more and more divided as a couple.

“But you, Lord, are a compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness.” Psalm 86:15

Two of my grown sons are fathers, and I love seeing the compassion in their eyes as they parent their children with patience and understanding. Love guides them, and I’m blessed to witness their compassionate interactions with my grandchildren.

Despite what some people believe about God—that He is angry and wrathful— we know He is slow to anger and full of grace. As 2 Peter 3:9 says, “The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead, he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.”

His compassion runs deep, and His faithfulness abounds to all generations. He is the One we turn to for comfort in our trials. Like our earthly dads who receive us with open arms, we can run to Abba Father and find compassion in our struggles.

“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God. For just as we share abundantly in the sufferings of Christ, so also our comfort abounds through Christ.” (2 Corinthians 1:3-5)

“Lord, thank You for comforting us with compassionate love and grace.”

One scholar explains that David feared for his life, not only because of threats from Saul, or from other nations: these threats “extended to his own family. The rebellion of his son Absalom is a poignant example.” His son’s rebellion occurred after the rape of Tamar, perhaps even as a result of David’s response. “When King David heard of all these things, he was very angry.” (2 Samuel 13:21) Yet, David did not seek justice for Tamar.

David’s failure to punish Amnon is one of the darkest periods of a reign filled with many dark moments. David was a passionate and sometimes thoughtless man who might have failed to recognize what Amnon really took from Tamar. After all, David had a weakness for women and did not respect them. He was accustomed to taking what he wanted and not considering the consequences, such as when he betrayed Uriah by taking Bathsheba, then sending Uriah to his death in order to cover the sin of adultery. Amnon followed suit.

At the very least, David should have been aware that Absalom would regard this incident as the justification he needed to try and wrest control from his father. Their conflict endangered the kingdom. Any king, especially one with so many sons, faced threats to his leadership if he did not act swiftly and wisely to throw sand on the slightest spark. With greater forethought, punishing Amnon would have made political sense even if he overlooked his daughter’s value as a human being.

In spite of these sins, David was a man of faith, one who confessed and repented many times. His Psalms record vulnerability and submission, confession and repentance. In Psalm 51, David cries out, “Have mercy on me, O God, according to your steadfast love; according to your abundant mercy blot out my transgressions.” (v.1)

The average American cannot relate to David’s circumstances: his courageous stand against Goliath, fleeing from murder attempts plotted by a jealous king; a life of leadership and warfare. Yet, we can relate to his struggle with sin and submission to God. David’s Psalms provide an honest record of this inner conflict, but also of what God wants from us: humility, honesty, confession, repentance, and fervor for the Lord. “The Lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer, my God, in whom I take refuge, my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold. I call upon the Lord, who is worthy to be praised, and I am saved from my enemies.” (Psalm 18:2-3)

David’s words are rich with joy, worship, and praise for God, even though his life was threatened when he wrote them. David has much to show us about a faith that delights in the Lord during difficult times, whether those difficulties are external or come from one’s own sinful inclinations.

Imperfect examples of fatherhood are everywhere in the Bible, in history, and in our own homes. There are no perfect fathers. But we know what imperfection looks like because our God is just and loving, and he sent Christ to show us what perfection is. All of those mistakes, those failings and sins, point us to Jesus. And by his death, all fathers who believe in Christ alone are redeemed. We need to pray for the men in our lives that their status as sons enables them to make peace with the mistakes they make as fathers. And, thanks to those Biblical examples, perhaps children can also forgive their fathers when they see that many challenges to parenting are patterns ingrained across millennia of fatherhood, repeated, but also redeemed by a loving and just Father.

Sources:
https://www.evangelical-times.org/three-bad-dads-of-the-bible-i/
https://www.desiringgod.org/articles/fatherhood-for-imperfect-dads
https://www.focusonthefamily.com/pro-life/samuel-the-prophet-an-adoption-story/
https://www.evangelical-times.org/three-bad-dads-of-the-bible-2/
https://biblehub.com/topical/j/jephthah’s_tragic_vow.htm
https://biblehub.com/topical/d/david’s_fear_and_decision.htm
https://www.evangelical-times.org/three-bad-dads-of-the-bible-i/
https://www.evangelical-times.org/three-bad-dads-of-the-bible-3/
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In my former church, the pastor had an affinity for the Spanish language. He didn’t speak it very well, but he loved to hear it. On plenty of occasions, he would even ask people to pray in Spanish. I’m from Brooklyn, and while there are many who speak Spanish in Brooklyn and I took three and a half years of Spanish between high school and college, I don’t speak the language well. When these people prayed in Spanish, I could catch a word here or there, but overall, I did not know what they were saying (unless they said hallelujah because that word is the same in every language).

While it was great for the person praying and those who knew the language, for me, it didn’t edify me much at all.

If you pray in tongues and you pray over a person in tongues, that does not edify their spirit for one simple reason: they do not know what you are saying. It is far better to pray for them in a language they understand than to pray in a language they don’t. Reserve praying for people in tongues for your private prayer sessions, but make sure you use language everyone can understand when you pray publicly. As Paul writes,

“Otherwise when you are praising God in the Spirit, how can someone else, who is now put in the position of an inquirer, say “Amen” to your thanksgiving, since they do not know what you are saying?” (1 Cor. 14:16).

Photo credit: Sam Balye/Unsplash

Holy Lord,
What a day this has been. Yet now I find myself here with you, ready to offer my body and mind to you completely in perfect surrender. Yes, I surrender all I am to you, Lord. You, who created me and who knows every intimate aspect of my heart and soul, I implore you to hold me close. I give all I am over to you entirely, holding nothing back. 

You are Jehovah Rapha, the Lord that Heals, and I ask you, please, to heal my body and my mind while I sleep. Give me true and perfect rest as I bow to you in humble submission. Cleanse me of all unrighteousness, and refresh my soul for your perfect purpose.  

I know that tomorrow is a beautiful new day, with joy and hope I cannot even begin to imagine. So, as I give myself over to you, release the old and usher in the new. Guard me as I rest and renew my strength within me. 

I know that you alone provide perfect and restorative rest, the kind of rest no human can achieve on their own. As the psalmist says in Psalm 4:8, “In peace, I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, Lord, make me dwell in safety.”

Blessed are you, Lord of Lords and King of Kings, now and forever.
Amen.

Photo Credit: ©Unsplash/Arzu Sendag

If renewing your mind is the foundation and taking every thought captive is the daily discipline, then yielding to the Holy Spirit is the heart of transformation. Without His presence and power, we’re left striving in our own strength. But when we surrender to Him, we gain more than clarity, and we gain life and peace. 

“But the mind governed by the Spirit brings life and peace.” – Romans 8:6

It’s all too easy to let a harsh comment or one anxious thought loop endlessly in our minds until it consumes us. Negative thinking is a universal struggle, and yet it’s entirely unproductive. But with the Holy Spirit’s help, and by choosing to renew our minds and take our thoughts captive, we can redirect even the most persistent mental patterns toward truth. Paul reminds us in Philippians 4:13, 

“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” 

That includes overcoming toxic thinking and emotional spirals. But this strength comes not from self-effort alone; it comes from yielding.

-Here’s how I’m learning to yield my mind to the Holy Spirit’s guidance: 

-When anger flares up, I can choose to pause and remember that God’s love for me is constant and unshakable.
-When fear grips me, I remind myself that Jesus is greater than whatever looms ahead. “God hasn’t given us a spirit of fear but of power, love, and a sound mind” (2 Timothy 1:7). 
-When doubts creep in, I stand on the promise of Romans 8:28—God is working all things together for my good. 

My circumstances never catch God off guard. He knows the whole story, even the parts I can’t yet see. The Holy Spirit invites me to surrender my anxious striving and instead let Scripture, worship, prayer, and praise flood my thoughts. When I do, negativity loses its grip, and God’s truth takes center stage. 

“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable–if anything is excellent or praiseworthy–think about such things.” – Philippians 4:8  

When I lay down guilt, insecurity, hurt, and inadequacy, the Holy Spirit fills those empty spaces with comfort, peace, and confidence. He becomes more than a concept. He becomes my Comforter, Power, Strength, and Helper.

Romans 8:5 captures this shift: “Those who live according to the flesh have their minds set on what the flesh desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires.” 

As I yield more fully to the Spirit, He cultivates His fruit in me—love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22).  These aren’t just traits to admire. They’re evidence that the Spirit is actively reshaping my character, growing me into someone who increasingly reflects the mind of Christ—a mind that honors God. 

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Before getting together as a family, or each time you’ll be around a grieving family member, pray that you will have a sensitive heart toward them. Ask for the Spirit’s discernment to know what each person needs, in terms of a kind word, comfort, or understanding, even despite your own expectations and needs for comfort. Everyone grieves differently, and sometimes the worst in us can come out, especially among family, so pray that God will help you extend grace toward others and be sensitive to what they’re going through. Proverbs 15:1 in the Contemporary English Bible says, “A sensitive answer turns back wrath, but an offensive word stirs up anger.” Feelings are volatile when family members are grieving (or trying not to), so sensitivity and grace go a long way.

While our culture says that you and your feelings are all that matter, having a heart that extends grace and seeks to encourage others, despite your hurt, will pour salve on wounds. Proverbs 16:24 says, “Pleasant words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones” (NASB). Pray for a sensitive heart and pleasant words to help heal others’ hurts and yours.

Photo Credit: ©GettyImages/coffeekai

15. Glorieta Adventure Camps (New Mexico)

This camp is in Santa Fe National Park and has a gorgeous landscape. It offers various adventure camps with faith-based themes, including family camps and youth camps. Families can go zip lining, rock climbing, and water sports.

16. Mount Hermon (CA)

This destination is in the Santa Cruz Mountains, offering gorgeous views and thick forests. They offer retreats, conferences, and summer camps for spiritual development. Families can enjoy zip lining, hiking, and mountain biking together.

17. Forest Home, CA

Peaceful surroundings nestle Forest Home in the San Bernardino Mountains. They have year-round retreats and camps for all ages. Outdoor activities include archery, kayaking, and climbing.

18. Ridgecrest Conference Center, North Carolina

Ridgecrest is in the Blue Ridge Mountains and boasts a serene and inspiring environment. It hosts conferences, retreats, and Bible-study sessions. Families can go hiking, swimming, and playing sports together. 

19. Sky Ranch, Texas

Sky Ranch is in East Texas and provides a tranquil setting. They offer faith-based programs like family camps and youth retreats. Activities include horseback riding, zip-lining, and water sports.

20. Pine Cove (Multiple Locations)

Pine Cove has locations in Texas, South Carolina, and Georgia. It offers various outdoor activities and family programs. It also offers camps and retreats that focus on spiritual growth and community. Each location has its natural beauty, from lakes to forests.

Photo Credit: ©Getty Images/Imgorthand

Justified anger will never lead us to sin. Righteous anger maintains integrity, whether it be a toxic thought, a hateful word, or a regrettable action. And if we’re honest with ourselves, most anger does not fit within this category.

 For most of my adult life, anger has been a persistent issue. I’ve been convicted of it, repented of it, and worked hard to diffuse it. I’ve even researched how the brain manages this powerful emotion. In my book, Scarves of White: Replacing Our Issues with the Covering of Christ, I share, “Studies have shown that some people actually see the color red when they are angry. Medical Science can detect changes in the brain, like increased adrenaline. The frontal lobe contains our reasoning center, and when the emotion of anger is triggered, the amygdala (uh-mig-duh-luh) begins working overtime! Blood rushes to the frontal lobe in an attempt to calm things down. That is one good reason for counting to ten before we react. It gives our brains time to defuse our anger.” 

Ephesians 4:26-27 says, “Be angry and do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger and give no opportunity to the devil.” (ESV) This verse is important because it outlines anger as a legitimate human experience while warning us of its lure.

The Bible encourages us to deal with anger quickly so as not to give the enemy a foothold. This includes replacing lies with truth, avoiding toxic conversations, refusing to engage with irrational people, and reacting from a place of calmness and control.

A Prayer to Take With You: Lord, please keep me from sinful anger, and give no opportunity to the enemy. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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If it seems like respect has been dwindling or maybe even lost for what the American flag represents, Memorial Day weekend might be the perfect time to visit The House of Flags Museum in Columbus, North Carolina as a way to rekindle your own love for the flag and share the impact with others in your sphere of influence. This gem of patriotism holds 300 flags and offers a tour highlighting “Defenders of Freedom” (military service and religious flags), “Birth of a Nation” (flags from America’s founding and Revolutionary War eras), “The Price of Liberty” (flags from the 1812 War, Texas Republic, WWII and more), “Liberty Cap Flags” (highlighting America’s earliest symbol of freedom), and a “United States of America” room, which displays all 27 official American flags, plus state and territory flags. Other interesting things to do near there include visiting the Columbus Farmers Market (which offers homemade goods and crafts), visit Stearns Park, where you can enjoy a picnic lunch in a beautiful scenic area and let the kids burn off some energy, then take a short drive to Shunkawauken Falls and White Oak Mountain, where you can also take the family on a beautiful hike.  

Photo Credit: © YouTube/Wanderful World of Travel

Spring rain is usually a welcome sight, but if there are multiple days in a row when we don’t see the sun, we begin to miss it. The longer the sun is gone, the more we long to see it. We might think the rainy days won’t end, but eventually, the sun does come out. Even though it is hard, we might have benefited from what we have gone through. There is always a silver lining.

I find the same thing is true in our walk with Jesus. We aren’t guaranteed that life will be easy here on earth. Sometimes the rain will come, we will go through hard things, and we might not see an ending for a while. Just like with spring rains, the sun eventually comes out with time. There will be an end to our pain, suffering, and hardships. We know this is true because Jesus told us that he will come and make all things right one day. This is our hope, even if our lives don’t go how we thought they would.

If we allow Jesus to use these hard times to help us grow, we will see fruit come from it. When the rain is done and the sun does come out, we will see the growth that has been accomplished in us. We might be amazed at what he has done in our lives through it. Yes, it was hard, but he used it for good.

The spring rain is refreshing and makes us think about everything Jesus does for us. It can be hard to put into words what everything means for us, but I am thankful that we have creation to look at and that we can imagine how that compares to or relates to all that he is. I’m not sure how we would understand and relate to him otherwise. Yet he comes down to our level and gives us these beautiful pictures of our relationship with him. The best part, though, is that no words can ever describe who Jesus entirely is. When we meet him one day, I think we will stand in awe of how great he is, and we won’t have anything to compare him to. There is nothing that comes even close. 

When you experience those spring rains, take a second and meditate on all the things that Jesus is for us, and how great he is. It may not explain him entirely, but it gives us a good picture so we can understand who he is. Remember that he gives us a fresh start, cleanses us, and is our source for growth. Eventually, he will make all things right. Jesus is our refreshing spring rain.

Photo Credit:  ©iStock/Getty Images Plus/eclipse_images

As beautiful and wonderful as Sarah is described in the Bible, it seemed she had a moment of parental misdirection, thinking she had come up with a way of solving her and Abraham’s childlessness by giving her handmaiden to him to fulfill God’s promise of a son to her husband.

Sarah’s seemingly parental misdirection didn’t just affect one child, but two, and still affects countless lives today. As Genesis 16:1-2 describes her choice, “Now Sarai, Abram’s wife, had borne him no children. But she had an enslaved Egyptian named Hagar; so she said to Abram, ‘The Lord has kept me from having children. Go, sleep with my slave; perhaps I can build a family through her.’ Abram agreed to what Sarai said.”

Sarah’s parenting choice, supported by her husband, set the course for what seemed like a disaster. Genesis 16:5 describes what resulted from her decision.”Then Sarai said to Abram, ‘You are responsible for the wrong I am suffering. I put my slave in your arms, and now that she knows she is pregnant, she despises me. May the Lord judge between you and me.”

Her parenting decision may have seemed like a massive error in judgment. She may have possibly felt that the baby born to her handmaiden, Ishmael, was a mistake, but we know that God had a purpose and plan for not only her promised son, Isaac, who would come along later through Sarah, but also his life.

Photo Credit: ©Getty Images/pcess609

When I crawl into bed at night, it’s not always easy to turn off my mind. I often find myself replaying the day’s chaos or stressing over tomorrow’s to-do list. I bet I’m not alone in this. Our lives move at a relentless pace, and we’re wired to keep going–so when it’s finally time to rest, our brains don’t always get the memo. It can be tough to just flip a switch and relax. This is especially the case when we face hardships or big life transitions.

And yet God designed our bodies to need sleep—it’s a gift, a chance to recharge physically and mentally. Scripture even says He gives sleep to those He loves (Psalm 127:2). Still, how can we shut off when our minds are stuck in overdrive?

Scripture itself offers the perfect remedy. In 1 Samuel 16, King Saul was plagued by a tormenting spirit that left him depressed and fearful, unable to fall asleep. His servants had an idea: find someone to play the harp to ease his mind. So they found David, a skilled harpist and a man after God’s heart. Whenever that spirit troubled Saul, David’s music brought tranquility, and 1 Samuel 16:23 (NLT) says, “Then Saul would feel better, and the tormenting spirit would go away.”

So, if you’re struggling to quiet your mind and release the day’s worries, try soothing music—or, better yet, worship music and hymns that point you to God. It’s amazing how it can shift your focus to His goodness and faithfulness, helping you enter into a peaceful state and drift into restful sleep.

That’s why I’ve selected 10 popular Christian hymns that are perfect to listen to as you wind down. Their timeless lyrics and soft melodies can help you to quiet your thoughts and focus your heart on your Savior, who is the real source of security and rest, and calm your mind.

As you go to sleep, you can listen to all of these hymns (and more) on the YouTube video linked here.

Here are 10 Christian hymns that can help you release the weight of day and rest in the loving arms of your Savior.

Photo credit: Unsplash/Gregory Pappas

1. Abide with Me — The Lord’s Presence with Us Always

This hymn has long been a go-to for comfort, whether in times of grief or worship. It’s especially fitting when you’re walking through a hardship and need to be reminded of the Lord’s presence. I especially love how the lyrics serve as an invitation for His nearness to draw close.

It was written by Henry Francis Lyte, a Scottish Anglican who was well familiar with the hardships of life. He composed it in 1847 while dying of tuberculosis—which must be what gives the lyrics such depth and tenderness. Even as his body was failing, he clung to the nearness of God.

This song encourages us to lift our eyes away from what we see around us—the chaos, the pain—and fix them on the unseen and eternal. This is exactly what we are instructed to do in 2 Corinthians 4:18: “So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.” 

When you’re winding down at night and trying to quiet your mind, this can be the perfect way to shift your focus. The melody is calming, and the lyrics invite you to rest in God’s peace—even in the midst of struggle.

This hymn reminds me of the Psalms, as it doesn’t attempt to shy away from the harsh realities of life, and yet it invites us to recenter our gaze back onto the Lord. I believe that’s what makes it so powerful. It reminds us that, no matter what we’re facing, our eternal peace is rooted in Jesus. This is one of the gifts He came to bring us through His sacrifice. Just like He said in John 16:33: “I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” Listening to this song as you drift off to sleep can be the perfect way to invite His peace and presence into both your bedroom and your heart.

Sample lyrics:

Abide with me; fast falls the eventide;
The darkness deepens; Lord, with me abide!
When other helpers fail and comforts flee,
Help of the helpless, O abide with me.

Photo Credit:©GettyImages/ibrahim eraslan

2. Be Still, My Soul: Trusting God’s Sovereign Plan

This hymn is a powerful reminder of the Truth found in Psalm 46:10: “Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!” 

Living in a fallen world, it can be tempting for us to allow our emotions to become caught up in the events swirling around us–the chaos and storms of life. And yet this song “Be Still, My Soul,” invites us to quiet our hearts and rest in the security of God’s unshakable peace.

Written by Katharina von Schlegel in 1752 and later translated by Jane Borthwick, the lyrics are set to the beautiful, calming tune of Jean Sibelius’ “Finlandia.” 

It reminds me of the moment when Jesus was asleep in the boat during the storm. While the disciples panicked, He chose to rest instead. (See Mark 4:35-41.) That kind of peace only comes from knowing that our Father is in control. See, it’s only in knowing that God is Lord that we can come to trust in Him–and it is through trusting in Him that we can find perfect peace. It’s easy to do that while listening to this song, as it encourages us to surrender our anxieties and fix our eyes on God’s faithfulness instead.

It’s the perfect song to play as you wind down for the night. The lyrics and tune create space to exhale the worries of the day and inhale His peace, turning your thoughts toward God’s promises instead of your problems. That’s exactly the “peace remedy” that we find in Philippians 4:6-7: “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”

This hymn helps us do just that—release the tension as we rest in the Truth that He can work all things together for good (Romans 8:28).

Sample lyrics:

Be still, my soul: the Lord is on thy side;
Bear patiently the cross of grief or pain;
Leave to thy God to order and provide;
In every change He faithful will remain.
Be still, my soul: thy best, thy heavenly Friend
Through thorny ways leads to a joyful end.

Photo credit: ©Getty Images/Aleh Varanishcha

3. There is Power in the Blood: Victory Through Jesus

I especially love the victorious, triumphant feel to this popular hymn. “There Is Power in the Blood,” written by Lewis E. Jones in 1899 during a Christian convention in Maryland, emphasizes the unstoppable power of Jesus’ sacrifice. It’s no wonder it’s become a classic in revival meetings and church gatherings across the decades!

The lyrics center us right back on the gospel. They remind us of what the Blood of Jesus really means for us, the benefits of our salvation: forgiveness, freedom, cleansing, healing, grace, and an entirely new life overall. No longer are we bound by our sins, our shame, or our past. It is only through the Blood of Christ that we have hope! It’s through His Blood that we gain eternal security and peace—and that’s something that no circumstance can take away. Nothing in this world has the power to shake our salvation.

This song is especially encouraging when you need to remember that you don’t need to fight your battles alone. The victory has already been won. The evil, suffering, and sin of this world have been wiped away by the Blood of the Lamb! And it is through this Blood that we can overcome all things (see Revelation 12:11). It’s also through His blood that we can be brought near to God (see Ephesians 2:13). That alone is a reason to rejoice! And in this state of rejoicing we can find true peace. Why? Because, when our minds are occupied with rejoicing, our thoughts won’t have any room for anxiety to enter. This is the perfect state to end your day–with a heart full of praise.

Sample lyrics:

Would you be free from the burden of sin?
There’s power in the blood, power in the blood;
Would you o’er evil a victory win?
There’s wonderful power in the blood.

There is power, power, wonder-working power
In the blood of the Lamb;
There is power, power, wonder-working power
In the precious blood of the Lamb.

Photo credit: ©GettyImages/artplus

4. Beneath the Cross of Jesus: Finding Refuge at the Cross

The sanctuary that Jesus’ sacrifice and the cross provide is powerfully reflected in this well-known hymn. The words, which were written in 1868 by Scottish poet Elizabeth Cecilia Clephane, capture her trust in Jesus despite all of life’s hardships. I especially love the beautiful imagery that leads us to the foot of the cross–our place of safety, mercy, and peace. 

Like a child resting safely in a father’s embrace, we are invited to rest in the comforting presence of God–our refuge and security. A child doesn’t need to fret over what the next day holds for them, because they know they can place their trust in their loving, earthly father. He handles the concerns of life for them. In the same way, no matter the weight of our worries, we can lay them down at the cross, knowing He has already carried them for us. As 1 Peter 2:24 reminds us: “…who Himself bore our sins in His own body on the tree, that we, having died to sins, might live for righteousness—by whose stripes you were healed.” 

Just like a child feels safe in their parent’s arms, we, too, can find perfect peace knowing that we are forever held in the arms of our Heavenly Father.

Sample lyrics:

Beneath the cross of Jesus I fain would take my stand,
The shadow of a mighty rock within a weary land;
A home within the wilderness, a rest upon the way,
From the burning of the noontide heat, and the burden of the day.

Photo credit: ©Getty/Kalawin

5. Love Divine, All Loves Excelling: God’s Perfect Love Transforms Us

This hymn, which was first written by the prolific writer Charles Wesley in 1747, is a sincere prayer for God’s perfect love to reside within us. The way that his poetic words are beautifully set to various tunes–including John Zundel’s “Beecher”–makes it the perfect song to reflect on before bedtime, as it can lull us into a state of total relaxation as we rest in His eternal love. 

We are reminded, as we listen, that God’s love surpasses all things we face in life–and we are invited to rest in the comfort of His embrace as we surrender the worries of this world to Him. In doing so, we allow the balm of His love to calm our fears, echoing the Truth found in 1 John 4:18: “Such love has no fear, because perfect love expels all fear. If we are afraid, it is for fear of punishment, and this shows that we have not fully experienced his perfect love.” Only God’s perfect love has the total power to soothe our anxious spirits. 

As you listen, allow these lyrics to be a prayer that fills your heart with His peace, and rest in this Truth: That you are safe, secure, and held in the embrace of Love Himself.

Sample lyrics:

Love divine, all loves excelling,
Joy of heaven to earth come down;
Fix in us Thy humble dwelling,
All Thy faithful mercies crown!
Jesus, Thou art all compassion,
Pure, unbounded love Thou art;
Visit us with Thy salvation,
Enter every trembling heart.

Photo credit: ©iStock/artplus

6. Savior, Like a Shepherd Lead Us: The Comfort of His Guidance

lthough Dorothy A. Thrupp wrote this classic hymn for children when it was first published in 1836, people of all ages can relate to its message. The lyrics paint a portrayal of Jesus as our Good Shepherd who watches over us with love and care–which goes perfectly with the melody by William B. Bradbury. As you listen, it’s easy to allow the imagery from Psalm 23:1-4 to come to life: “The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures,

he leads me beside quiet waters,  he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake. Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.” What a beautiful reminder that He is the One who leads, guides, and guards you through every path of life. Regardless of circumstances, you don’t lack a thing with Him by your side, and it is only His presence that can refresh your soul. This Truth is also emphasized in John 10:14: “I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me…” His presence calms our fears and assures us that we are never alone. We are always under the watchful eye of our Good Shepherd; knowing that, we can unwind as we release the burdens of the day, knowing that His tender care is more than enough.

Sample lyrics:

Savior, like a shepherd lead us,
 Much we need Thy tender care;
 In Thy pleasant pastures feed us,
 For our use Thy folds prepare.

Blessed Jesus, blessed Jesus,
 Thou hast bought us, Thine we are;
 Blessed Jesus, blessed Jesus,
 Thou hast bought us, Thine we are.

Photo credit: ©iStock/Getty Images Plus/KristiLinton

7. A Wonderful Savior (Is Jesus My Lord): Christ Our Hiding Place

This song, written by Fanny J. Crosby in 1890, serves as a beautiful reminder that Jesus Christ is our continual hiding place in Christ. Crosby, who was blind from birth, composed of over 8000 hymns that emphasize spiritual sight. This hymn invites us into that special space where our souls are hidden in the “cleft of the rock”—a place of peace, shelter, and love in the arms of our Savior. This visual echoes Moses’ encounter with God, and the gentle melody can ease us into a restful state as we listen. As you listen to its gentle rhythm, allow your breaths to deepen and rest in the Truth of Psalm 27:5: “For in the time of trouble He shall hide me in His pavilion; In the secret place of His tabernacle He shall hide me; He shall set me high upon a rock.” Whatever storms you may find swirling around you, find peace in the reminder that you are safe in Him. 

Sample lyrics:

A wonderful Savior is Jesus my Lord,
A wonderful Savior to me;
He hideth my soul in the cleft of the rock,
Where rivers of pleasure I see.
He hideth my soul in the cleft of the rock
That shadows a dry, thirsty land;
He hideth my life in the depths of His love,
And covers me there with His hand.

Photo credit: ©GettyImages/Sergio Yoneda

8. Safe In The Arms Of Jesus: Resting in Christ’s Loving Embrace

This song is especially comforting for those who are searching for hope in the midst of pain and grief. It was written by prolific hymn writer Fanny J. Crosby in 1868, not long after hearing a melody composed by William H. Doane. She composed the words instantly, inspired by sorrow—specifically, the death of a friend’s child. Yet even though this song was birthed out of pain, it directs our hearts to the source of our hope in Jesus Christ. 

The lyrics paint a picture of complete safety—nestled in Jesus’ arms, resting in His loving embrace–paired perfectly with its tender melody. It is often sung at funerals, but its gentle melody is perfect for falling asleep. As we rest, we can remember that our lives are cradled in the care of a loving Savior. No matter the grief, fear, or heaviness we carry, we can lay it all down and find peace, just like a child wrapped in the arms of a loving parent. We can trust that Jesus has experienced the pain and suffering of this world too. Whatever suffering we experience in this life, Jesus knows what it feels like because He’s experienced the harsh realities of this world. And He longs to serve as our Comforter. We can allow His embrace to melt away the sting of the suffering of this world because He has already overcome, just as we are reminded of in John 16:33: “I have told you these things so that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation, but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.”

Sample Lyrics:

Safe in the arms of Jesus,
Safe on His gentle breast;
There by His love o’ershaded,
Sweetly my soul shall rest.

Photo credit: ©GettyImages/FG Trade

9. A Shelter in the Time of Storm: Refuge in God’s Care

This song was originally a poem by Vernon J. Charlesworth, a pastor, and was set to music in the late 19th Century by Ira D. Sankey for a good reason–it has a beautiful potential to remind us of an important truth: that the Lord is our anchor during the storms of life. It helps listeners to direct our attention to the Lord’s provision, painting a picture of Him as our shelter during the trials of life. That, paired with the steady rhythm of the hymn, makes it a soothing song to listen to as you drift off to sleep, reminding us of God’s unwavering security and the truth found in Psalm 46:1-2: “God is our refuge and strength, A very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, even though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea…” 

This hymn reminds us that God is our shelter in times of storms–regardless of how powerful the storms might be. Nothing in this world can shake us from our foundation in Christ, and He can carry us through everything we face. As we fall asleep, listening to this song can direct our focus back to the unmovable Rock of Christ, pointing our gaze away from the difficulties of life that may be whirling around us. While listening, allow God to make His presence and His nearness known to you, providing the comfort and strength you need to release the suffering of the world and trust that He will give you the strength you need for tomorrow.

Sample lyrics:

The Lord’s our Rock, in Him we hide,
 A shelter in the time of storm;
 Secure whatever ill betide,
 A shelter in the time of storm.

Oh, Jesus is a Rock in a weary land,
 A weary land, a weary land;
 Oh, Jesus is a Rock in a weary land,
 A shelter in the time of storm.

Photo Credit: ©iStock/Getty Images Plus/mariephoto28

10. Give Me The Bible: Strength in God’s Word  

Priscilla J. Owens, a Sunday School teacher, wrote this popular hymn in 1883 to reflect the comfort, guidance, and strength we find in God’s Word. Since Owens was a Sunday School teacher, she wrote many songs for youth–which explains why this song has a simple melody, making it soothing to listen to at bedtime. With a gentle, hopeful melody, this hymn reminds us of the assurance we can rest in as we meditate on Scripture. No matter what uncertainties we face, His Word is our steady light (Psalm 119:105)—our guide when the path is unclear. It reminds us that, though the seasons of life may change, the security of His Word remains forever. And when we are tossed and turned throughout life, and the changes of life cause us to develop anxiety or unrest, we can find assurance in the truth that His Word will never fail (Luke 1:37). We always have hope in this dark world—and this hope can help to dissolve whatever troubles us as we lay down to rest.   

As you prepare for sleep, let the truth of Isaiah 40:8 wash over your heart: “The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God stands forever.” His promises do not change. His Word will not fail. 

Sample lyrics:

Give me the Bible, star of gladness gleaming,
 To cheer the wanderer lone and tempest-tossed;
 No storm can hide that radiant, peaceful beaming,
 Since Jesus came to seek and save the lost.

Give me the Bible, holy message shining;
 Thy light shall guide me in the narrow way;
 Precept and promise, law and love combining,
 Till night shall vanish in eternal day.

Listen to all these soothing songs for sleep below. I pray peaceful rest for you as you trust in the Lord’s loving care. 

Photo credit: ©GettyImages/RomoloTavani

Tessa Emily Hall is an award-winning author who wrote her debut novel when she was sixteen. She is now a multi-published author of fiction and non-fiction inspirational yet authentic books for teens, including her latest release, LOVE YOUR SELFIE (October 2020, Ellie Claire). Tessa’s passion for shedding light on clean entertainment and media for teens led her to a career as a Literary Agent at Cyle Young Literary Elite, YA Acquisitions Editor for Illuminate YA (LPC Imprint), and Founder/Editor of PursueMagazine.net. She is guilty of making way too many lattes and never finishing her to-read list. When her fingers aren’t flying 128 WPM across the keyboard, she can speak to teens, teach at writing conferences, and act in Christian films. Her favorite way to procrastinate is to connect with readers on her mailing list, social media (@tessaemilyhall), and website: www.tessaemilyhall.com.

Originally published Monday, 05 May 2025.

It’s important for Americans to commemorate Memorial Day and not forget our military men and women who served and fought for our country throughout the decades: to reflect on, remember, remind, and recognize the fight, the cost, the sorrow, and the sacrifices, how they have paid dearly with their lives so that we may live and enjoy the blessings of freedom today.

America’s freedom endures in part because we take time to thank God for His hand in leading our nation and recognize the countless individuals who have sacrificed their own lives to gain and maintain it. Here are seven ways to commemorate Memorial Day this year.

1. Attend a memorial service for servicemen and women who laid down their lives for their country. Many veteran facilities and cemeteries offer Memorial Day services.

2. To commemorate the day, visit a veteran’s memorial or cemetery. Walk through the grounds, taking time to reflect, remember, and recognize the lives lost in military service. Bring flowers or small American flags to decorate graves.

3. Gather family members to look at photos of loved ones who have served in the military over the years and share stories about their lives.

4. Create a photo album for a friend or family member that honors and commemorates their military serviceman or woman who died while serving in the military.

5. Write a thoughtful letter or card to a family who has lost a loved one in military service, letting them know you remember their loved one’s sacrifice, and are praying for God’s comfort for them, grateful for their family member’s service and sacrifice.

6. Spend time praying for families who have lost loved ones in military service, asking God to send His peace and comfort to them.

7. Create a video tribute to share online with friends and family members that commemorates and encourages honor for those who have served their nations and given their lives for our freedom.

Photo Credit: John Silliman/Unsplash

Federer, W.J. (2024, May 26). Memorial Day—Honoring American Heroes of Courage, Sacrifice, & Faith—American Minute with Bill Federer. AmericanMinute. https://americanminute.com/blogs/todays-american-minute/memorial-day-honoring-american-heroes-of-courage-sacrifice-faith-american-minute-with-bill-federer

(J. Newcombe, personal communication, April 19, 2024)

(W.J. Federer, personal communication, September 6, 2022)

Coral Ridge Media (June 2006). Letter from Fallen Marine Reaches Nation. Impact Plus Newsletter. (p.1).

Many of us often avoid surrender because it’s usually painful. No one likes unpleasantness and hardship, but God often prunes and refines us for our good. The popular Hillsong song called “New Wine” describes this perfectly. “In the crushing, in the crushing. In the pressing. You are making new wine. In the soil, I now surrender. You are breaking new ground.” 

I’m not sure there’s a Jesus-follower on Earth who hasn’t had to surrender and endure growing pains to make it to the next level…whether in a relationship, career, creative or spiritual life. In our pain-avoidant culture, we of course tend to avoid and downplay any sacrifice, refrain, or loss, because it does nothing for our dopamine addictions and frankly just isn’t fun. But Godly pruning always leads to beauty and flourishing.

Related Resource: The Bestselling Christian Author Who Became an Alcoholic

Welcome to the Confessions of a Christian Alcoholic podcast! In the show’s first episode, author and host Jon Seidl tells his detailed story of being the Christian who became an alcoholic, not the other way around. It’s usually the other way around, isn’t it? And the church seems to be OK with those stories, but what about the stories that are messy like Jon’s? Like yours?

In an effort to break the stigma around addiction, Jon gets radically vulnerable about his personal journey of going from bestselling Christian author, to alcoholic, and then coming back to Jesus. How was he able to finally stop drinking after years of being stuck? What did rock bottom look like? What were the four steps he took to break free? It’s all on the inaugural episode.

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, share this podcast or follow Confessions of a Christian Alcoholic on Apple or Spotify so you never miss an episode!

Photo Credit: © Unsplash/Jordan Steranka

Learning Bible verses seems hard. It feels like something you’ve forgotten from childhood. But keeping God’s Word in your mind is a powerful tool against evil. When worries begin, when dread grips you, having scripture close is like a rescue in a dangerous storm.

It’s more than just saying words; it’s about understanding the truth. It’s letting God’s message change your thoughts, feelings, and choices. It’s about swapping falsehoods for truth. And in the struggle for good mental health, that’s a major victory.

Bible Verses for Overcoming Fear, Anxiety, and Negative Thoughts:

Philippians 4:6-7: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

Isaiah 41:10: “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

2 Timothy 1:7: “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.”

Psalm 23:4: “Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.”

Practical Techniques for Scripture Memorization:

Spaced Repetition: Review the verse at increasing intervals (e.g., after 5 minutes, 1 hour, 1 day, 1 week).

Visualization: Create a mental image associated with the verse.

Association: Link the verse to a specific event or person in your life.

Write It Out: Physically writing the verse helps to reinforce it in your memory.

Say It Aloud: Reciting the verse out loud engages multiple senses and improves retention.

Think you have a bad memory? Join the club! I’m terrible with names! But honestly, everyone can memorize scripture. It just takes practice and finding the right method for you. Start with just one verse a week. You’ll be surprised at how quickly they add up!

Photo Credit: ©iStock/Getty Images Plus/AaronAmat

Anxiety’s worst tactic is making us believe our suffering is permanent. This creates helplessness, leaving us feeling stuck in our unhappiness. It can lead to despondency and block our attempts to get aid or answers.

However, Lamentations 3:22-23 contains a powerful message of hope: “Because of the Lord’s great love, we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.” This passage reveals that God’s affection and mercy are constant and limitless. His goodness is refreshed daily, providing us a new start and revived optimism. Even during hard times, God’s reliability endures.

When anxious thoughts come, accept them without criticism, then softly shift your focus back to the present. Trust in God’s promises and remember He’s always there, providing you with love and backing.

Anxiety is a powerful enemy. However, it needn’t rule our lives. By spotting its deceitful whispers and exchanging them for God’s truth, we can escape its hold and find a calm beyond all comprehension.

You must take time to identify the specific falsehoods that anxiety speaks to you. Jot them down, then locate matching biblical truths to fight back. When negative thoughts overwhelm you, intentionally swap them with these truths. Reflect on Scripture, seek God’s direction in prayer, and be around encouraging fellow believers.

Know this: you’re not alone. God is with you, giving His love, mercy, and peace. Trust in Him, and let Him destroy anxiety’s deceptions, filling you with His hope. May you discover lasting peace and liberty in Christ. I pray abundant blessings upon you.

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In the stress of everyday life, it can be challenging to find quiet times to reflect and listen for God’s voice speaking to you. Your mind is often cluttered with to-do lists and distractions. Taking a break from your responsibilities can allow you to enjoy mental and emotional margins. 

Travel uniquely offers the chance to create space for solitary reflection and prayer, which can help you hear from God. When you’re away from everyday routines, your mind can be freer and more receptive to God’s messages than usual. 

Jesus often withdrew to lonely places to pray (Luke 5:16). Travel can give you your own “lonely places,” such as a hotel room, a long car ride, or a quiet place in a park. You can use these places to be still, pray without rushing, read the Bible without interruption, and listen to God’s Holy Spirit. 

When you give God your undivided attention, you may be surprised by what He reveals. God may send you fresh encouragement, guidance, or inspiration to help you with every part of your life. 

Travel can also give you a different setting for your devotional times, making them feel fresh. So, while traveling, schedule time by yourself to reflect and pray, just as you plan other activities. 

Bring a journal to write down the spiritual insights God gives you. Limit digital distractions during these quiet times and focus your attention on God. 

Use your quiet time to ask reflective questions, like: “What is God teaching me on this trip?”, “How does this place I’m visiting reveal something new about God to me?” and “What changes does God want me to make in my life after this trip?” You can return home after traveling not only with souvenirs, but also with a stronger connection to God’s Holy Spirit.

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