1. Understanding the Importance of Independence for Teenagers

“Mom, why won’t you allow me to listen to secular music?” I remember our conversation like it was yesterday. Our teenage son was an incredible musician. His aptitude for music theory was amazing. Brandon’s goal was to one day grow up to become a worship pastor. But, he also enjoyed secular songs - especially music by one particular guitarist. While we had allowed Brandon’s older sister to listen to acceptable secular songs, we had steered Brandon toward Christian artists. As Brandon unfolded the injustice of our parenting, I whispered a quick prayer and asked God to grant me wisdom. In short, I helped Brandon understand how God had put into his heart to write worship music and one day be a worship pastor. I said, “The Bible says, as a man thinks in his heart, so is he” (see Proverbs 23:7).

May has arrived, and with it, the true spirit of spring.

There are many male celebrities who openly follow Jesus within Hollywood. Despite Hollywood being a hard place for a Christian to blossom and bloom, there are many male celebrities who are not afraid to follow Jesus.

You don’t have to look very hard to find crude content on Netflix. It’s so bad, in fact, that a 2023 Parents Television and Media Council study found that 62 percent of Netflix titles are rated TV-MA for mature, while only 14 percent are rated TV-PG.

The U.S. -- and the world -- has been wrestling with issues of racial equality for centuries. In America in recent times, the issues of racism and equality have been particularly at the forefront of our national discourse, with many Christian leaders speaking out against racism and for reconciliation. Ultimately, many Christian leaders have acknowledged that there is much injustice to face and much work to be done, but that the Gospel is essential to true and lasting reconciliation. Here are 10 quotes from Christian leaders on the issues of racism, equality, and what the Church can do to work for justice and unity.

I believe God has so much compassion for the confusion the younger generations are battling with the Church. We’re at a time in history where so much is being exposed in our world–systemic racism, capitalist greed, political warfare and environmental carelessness, to name a few. Unfortunately, the Church is not excluded from the influence of these same systems. Millennials are noticing and calling out for change, and when they don’t see changes in the Church, they leave.

Most pastors will tell you of the importance of small groups. Speaking from personal experience, I know that if someone is connected in a small group, there is a greater likelihood that they'll be involved in a wider mission and more involved within the local church's life. They also have a built-in support system to help them grow in Christ. A recent LifeWay study found what I already knew through personal experience—small groups are important. Scott McConnell summarized the study with these words:

Upheaval envelops our world. Conflict in Eastern Europe could spark a third world war. Violence in Israel brings prophecies to mind. Charismatic leaders operate in oppression and corruption. Religious leaders are exposed as manipulative and sinful.

Have you ever asked yourself why you go to church? There are plenty of scriptures about meeting together, so, maybe it’s out of obedience. Or maybe it’s tradition, or maybe it’s the fear of being accused of not being a good Christian. Maybe you go to church because it’s something to do or it feels like a good thing to have some sort of faith-based support. Maybe you’ve formed good friendships, or you enjoy the programs churches have to offer. Maybe you like being part of a community of like-minded people. Maybe you’ve just always gone and so you continue to go out of habit or routine. 

A solar eclipse is set to occur on April 8, 2024, and it will affect much of North America. As we prepare for the big event, several people are unsure what to expect. Being informed and ready will help you to enjoy an experience that only happens once every several years!