Following the Shepherd Who Guides Unto the Death

As the first missionaries were sent unto the uttermost – as Jesus beckoned, “come and die” – He gave them a glimpse of hope. He gave them a comfort for the lonely nights on their long journeys. He gave them a reason to smile in the seasons of deepest despair.

From the first breath of their calling, Jesus directed them onward, upward.
He beckoned them “follow Me.” And in the weight of those words lies the beauty of a fleeting life redeemed with overflowing fullness.

Because we trust the Shepherd who guides us unto death.

Praising in the Rain: Lessons in Remembrance

When the Israelites turned from God repeatedly, allowing their questions and doubts and confusion to overwhelm their wearied hearts, and when they so stubbornly and selfishly denied their Redeemer and Creator…still He remained faithful. And throughout all the prophets this theme continues, woven in an endless and beautiful depiction of God’s love despite our human inconsistencies and flaws. This theme to slow down…and remember.

Choosing to be Thankful for Spiritual Growing Pains

Have you ever had a day or week where it feels like you can’t do anything right? I certainly have. In fact, the past couple have weeks have been full of my feeling like, no matter how hard I try, I keep making the same old mistakes over and over again. Sometimes I feel like… Continue reading Choosing to be Thankful for Spiritual Growing Pains

The Dangers of Pride in Your Faith

When we take pride in ourselves – who have nothing truly worth priding over in comparison to the great God of heaven – we become blinded to God’s hand at work and create a barrier in our relationship with Him.

Be wary of the danger of pride in your faith.

Give it All You’ve Got: God Wants Your Best

These past few days I have been thinking a lot about the various paths we take in our journey as Christians. I’ve been thinking about the times God has called me – and others – down a specific road only to randomly whisper “take a turn, I have a different road for you now.” And I’ve been thinking about how our God seems to love surprises.

But here’s what I’ve been thinking about most: whether life is beyond simple right now or you’re in a whirlwind of unknowns…I hope you give it all you’ve got.

Testimony Challenge: Chuck’s Story (My One and Only Need)

What is your one and only need? What do you most rely on, desire, and pursue? When you die, what will your testimony be: will you have sought after something worth seeking, or will your legacy be full of empty promises and worldly pleasures? In today’s testimony challenge, Chuck gives his answer to this question and shares the story of his walk with Christ. 

Run your race well, friends.

Looking Forward: One Step at a Time

Looking forward can be scary. Especially for teenagers. There are ups and downs and turn-arounds and so many missing pieces to the puzzle that just keeps growing. But God already knows the plans He has for each and every one of us. If the road looks twisted—like a maze you’ll never find your way through—just close your eyes and take the hand that’s always there to lead you.