For many Christians, prayer is difficult or intimidating. We know we’re supposed to pray.We want to pray.But when we actually try to do it, something feels off. We don’t know what to say.We worry we’re doing it wrong.We wonder if our prayers are too small, too repetitive, or too weak. Here's the good news: Jesus didn’t… Continue reading Why Prayer Feels So Hard (and Where Jesus Tells Us to Start)
Few questions are as universal—or as personal—as this one: Why do bad things happen to good people? It’s not a question we ask in the abstract. We ask it in hospital rooms. At gravesides. In the silence of unanswered prayers. And for many people, this question isn’t theoretical—it's a devastating reality. The suffering we see… Continue reading Where Is God When It Hurts?
This post is based on a recent sermon: "Isn't Christianity bad for women?" “Christianity is oppressive to women.” I'm sure you've heard that before. It’s not a new accusation. It’s been around for a long time. But Christians are used to being mocked in this regard. In fact, it used to come from the opposite… Continue reading Jesus Changed Everything for Women
This post was inspired by a recent sermon: “Why should I care about God’s rules?” For most of my life, I’ve described myself by saying, “I’m not really a rules guy.” I tend to struggle being close to people who really love the rules. That’s not because I’m naturally rebellious. I don’t mind being led.… Continue reading God’s Rules Are Good for You
This morning in my devotions I read from Psalm 19. It begins with beautiful words: "The heavens declare the glory of God!" I immediately felt the truth of those words. Not only do I think of stunning sunsets, breathtaking mountain vistas, beautiful lakes, and vast oceans, but in the last few days I've watched so… Continue reading I’m Challenging You to Read the Bible
struggling and striving to follow Jesus
Joshua Wester 