Faith + Hope + Love

Halloween is one of those topics that gets Christians a little freaked out. Is it okay to wear costumes? Should kids be allowed to go trick-or-treating? Are Halloween parties actually satanic rituals? If we do anything on Halloween other than turn off the lights and pretend we're not home, does that mean we're putting our faith at risk of spiritual attack? Some Christians believe there is nothing wrong with dressing up in costumes or handing out candy on Halloween—that it's a totally innocent, fun holiday for kids and teens. Other Christians are convinced that it's an evil holiday that was established to worship Satan and darkness and all things occult. By now, you are probably pretty clear about how your parents feel about Halloween. But which view is right? "Halloween" is not mentioned in the Bible specifically, but we can still use biblical principles to help us make a good decision about what to do. That said, there is still the whole "Chi...

How can I be a good friend to someone who has anxiety? This is such a beautiful question. And the answer is both extremely simple and infinitely complex. Short Answer: Simply love your friend. Your friendship with a friend who suffers from anxiety may be just like any other on most days. But when their anxiety flares, realize that how your friend needs to experience love may be different than you think. It'll likely be different than what you yourself would want or need. During a period of extreme anxiety, the biggest help you can give your friend is to listen to what they're saying. Discover what they need from you in that moment. From my experience, for most people, their needs can be boiled down to three things: Patience, presence, and communication. Have Patience with Them If you have never struggled with anxiety or depression, one of the hardest things to understand is that anxiety can be utterly crippling. Debilitating anxiety can make it hard ...

Anxiety is real. You know it and I know it, because I'm in the raging waters with you. I've listened to so many sermons on anxiety, and after a while, all the preachers sound the same. They all use the same verses, like  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." And there is nothing wrong with this verse at all; it's just that every time I've heard it used by a pastor, they make it seem so easy. Like it's a kind of formula that will wipe away all my anxieties. Just tell God your problems, and everything will be fine! Riiiight. But it seems like they're all looking at it from the outside. At least that's what I thought until I came across a sermon series by Louie Giglio*. He got it. He got it because he's been there. And his ...

For the past few weeks I've been trying to write something on Empathy in the bible. I hope it helps you understand more about it in a biblical context. If ever you think I've made a mistake or wish to correct me on a certain points, do not hesitate to let me know. As you may know, the Bible is pro-empathy! The apostle Peter counseled Christians to have “compassion for one another; love as brothers, be tenderhearted, be courteous” ( 1 Peter 3:8, NKJV ). The apostle Paul also encouraged empathy when he exhorted fellow Christians to “rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn” ( Romans 12:15 ). There are several examples of empathy in action in the Bible. Jesus was always sensitive to the plight of others. Matthew tells us how Jesus, “when he saw the crowds, . . . had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd” ( Matthew 9:36 ). On another occasion, Jesus observed a widow about to bury her only son. Sensing her pain (...

The true beauty of going back and reminiscing, is being able to see God’s handprints all over your life. How He supported you. How He brought the right people into your life at the right times. The no’s to prayers that turned into blessings. The yes to prayers that took your breath away. The way He held you in the dark moments, helped you to see those hard times were not without great purpose. He truly created beauty from ashes. More than once, He made a way when there was no way. You can see clearly the road He laid out before you. Beautifully weaving triumphs and heart breaks into a beautiful masterpiece. As much as you have strived, toiled, and stressed; you see now, how it was all Him and not you. His strength, His love, and His purpose for you shines so brightly in your memories. Your heart is grateful as you see His goodness, His mercy, and His grace all over your life. Pondering God’s presence throughout the years reminds your heart He is still working, He is still m...

I believe technology is powerful, especially the social media. But social media, without boundaries can become a slow killer of our marriages and our relationships. Recently, I have been noticing families in restaurants and coffee shops. It’s heartbreaking to see members of the family engrossed in their own world, scrolling aimlessly. Instead, these could be moments of intimate conversations, fun and laughter. I agree, the urge is strong, but consciously let’s make an effort to put our phone down and spend meaningful and quality time with our family, at least a few hours a day. God has blessed us with families to love, enjoy and cherish one another.  How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in harmony! Psalm 133:1