Brandon Martel

It’s one of the hardest questions in life—and one nearly everyone asks at some point: Why do bad things happen to good people? Whether it’s watching a child suffer, facing a devastating loss, or seeing injustice win, our hearts cry out for answers. If God is good and powerful, why does He allow pain?
This isn’t just a philosophical puzzle—it’s a deeply personal question. And while the Bible doesn’t give us every answer we might want, it does give us hope, truth, and a God who meets us in the middle of our suffering.

1. Addressing the Age-Old Question
This question has been asked for centuries—from ancient philosophers to hurting friends at hospital bedsides. Even people of deep faith wrestle with it. In fact, the Bible doesn’t shy away from this question—Job, David, Habakkuk, and even Jesus cried out with versions of it: “My God, why have you forsaken me?” (Matthew 27:46).
Asking why isn’t a sign of weak faith—it’s part of an honest relationship with God. The real issue is where we take our questions. Scripture invites us to bring them to God, not away from Him.

2. Biblical Perspectives
The Bible offers several key insights to help us understand the problem of suffering:
We live in a fallen world. When sin entered the world through Adam and Eve, brokenness entered with it—bringing disease, injustice, and death (Romans 5:12). We experience the consequences of that fall daily.
Suffering is not always punishment. The book of Job shows that even the most righteous can suffer deeply. Jesus Himself lived a perfect life yet was rejected, tortured, and killed.
God is near to the brokenhearted. Psalm 34:18 reminds us that God is not distant in suffering—He draws close.
Suffering can shape us. Romans 5:3–5 says that suffering produces endurance, character, and hope. God uses pain, not as punishment, but as a tool to form us.
The Bible doesn’t minimize suffering—but it does frame it within a much bigger story.

3. God’s Sovereignty and Goodness
One of the hardest tensions to hold is that God is both sovereign (in control) and good (loving). If He’s in control, why doesn’t He stop bad things? If He’s good, why does He allow pain?
Scripture assures us that God is both, even when we don’t understand how it all fits. Isaiah 55:8–9 says His thoughts are higher than ours. There’s mystery we may never fully grasp this side of eternity.
But here’s what we do know:
God doesn’t cause evil—but He can redeem it.
He allows freedom, and with it, the reality of sin—but He never stops working for His glory and our good (Romans 8:28).
The cross is the clearest proof: God used the greatest evil (the death of Jesus) to bring about the greatest good (our salvation).
Even when we can’t trace His hand, we can trust His heart.

4. How to Walk with Others in Suffering
When people are suffering, they don’t need a theological lecture—they need presence, empathy, and love.
Listen before speaking. Let people express their pain and doubts without rushing to fix them.
Acknowledge the mystery. It’s okay to say, “I don’t know why this is happening, but I’m here with you.”
Reflect God’s comfort. Be a vessel of His compassion, peace, and kindness.
Pray and stay. Sometimes the greatest ministry is simply showing up, staying present, and lifting them up in prayer.
Romans 12:15 calls us to “weep with those who weep.” Don’t underestimate the power of your quiet, faithful presence.

5. Hope
The greatest hope Christians have is not the absence of suffering—it’s that suffering is not the end of the story.
God will one day make all things right. Revelation 21:4 promises a day when He will wipe every tear and death will be no more.
Jesus suffered with us and for us. We do not worship a distant God, but a Saviour who knows our pain firsthand.
Nothing is wasted. God uses even pain to draw us closer, shape our character, and accomplish His purposes.
Eternal hope transforms present pain. As Paul said in 2 Corinthians 4:17, “Our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.”
This doesn’t mean our pain isn’t real—it means it’s not permanent.

In a culture that moves fast, questions everything, and often deconstructs long-held beliefs, it’s fair to ask: Why does the Bible still matter today? Isn’t it outdated? Biased? Irrelevant to modern life?
These are honest questions—but the Bible has stood the test of time for a reason. It’s not just an ancient book; it’s God’s living word, still speaking, shaping, and transforming lives today. Let’s explore why the Bible matters more than ever.

1. Common Objections
People often have real concerns about the Bible. Here are a few we hear often:
“It’s outdated.” Written thousands of years ago, how could it speak into today’s complex world of technology, politics, and modern ethics?
“It’s full of contradictions.” Many point to perceived inconsistencies in the text as reasons to dismiss it.
“It’s oppressive.” Some believe the Bible has been used to justify harmful systems or behaviors.
“It’s just a human book.” Skeptics may argue that it was written by men with agendas, not inspired by God.
While these objections are understandable, they often come from a surface-level reading or a misunderstanding of the Bible’s context and purpose. When approached thoughtfully, many of these concerns can be answered with clarity and grace.

2. Unchanging Truths
Culture shifts constantly—but the Bible offers timeless truths that don’t change with trends:
God’s character is constant. He is holy, loving, just, and merciful.
Human nature is the same. Though technology has changed, the core struggles of pride, fear, sin, and longing for purpose remain.
The Gospel doesn’t age. Humanity’s need for grace, redemption, and reconciliation with God hasn’t gone away—and never will.
The Bible doesn’t need to be “updated” because its message is eternal. It speaks to the deepest parts of our identity and purpose in every generation.

3. The Power of Scripture
The Bible is not just a book of advice—it’s alive and active (Hebrews 4:12). Here’s what it does:
Transforms hearts. God uses His Word to convict, comfort, and change us from the inside out.
Reveals Jesus. From Genesis to Revelation, the Bible points to Christ—the hope of the world.
Guides our lives. Psalm 119:105 says, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.”
Speaks personally. The Spirit of God speaks through Scripture in unique and timely ways.
Many can testify to moments when a verse brought peace during anxiety, direction in confusion, or strength during weakness. That’s not coincidence—it’s the power of God through His Word.

4. How to Build a Love for God’s Word
Loving the Bible doesn’t happen overnight. Like any relationship, it grows over time. Here are some ways to cultivate that love:
Start small. Begin with a Gospel or a Psalm. Read a few verses a day and reflect on them.
Ask God for hunger. Pray for a heart that desires His Word. God delights to answer that prayer.
Make it a habit. Consistency builds connection. Find a time that works and stick with it.
Read with others. Join a Bible study or read with a friend. Shared insights deepen understanding.
Use a journal. Write down what stands out, what confuses you, and how God might be speaking.
Loving God’s Word isn’t about checking off a to-do list. It’s about meeting the God who speaks, listens, and transforms.

5. Recommended Resources
To help you grow in understanding and love for the Bible, here are a few trusted tools:
Apps:
YouVersion Bible App – Free reading plans and devotionals
Dwell – An audio Bible with beautiful narrations
Books:
“Women of the Word” by Jen Wilkin – For practical Bible study habits
“How to Read the Bible for All Its Worth” by Gordon Fee and Douglas Stuart – For deeper study
“The Bible Recap” by Tara-Leigh Cobble – A chronological reading companion
Podcasts & Videos:
The Bible Project – Visual explanations of books and themes in Scripture
The Bible Recap Podcast – Daily summaries of Bible readings

Social media is everywhere—shaping opinions, forming friendships, and influencing identity. For kids and teens, it’s a central part of how they communicate and see the world. But with great access comes great risk. As parents and mentors, we can’t ignore it—and we shouldn’t fear it either. With wisdom, love, and intentional guidance, we can help the next generation use social media well.
Here’s a practical, faith-filled approach to teaching kids how to navigate social media wisely.

1. Common Dangers
Social media can be fun and positive, but it’s also full of real dangers:
Comparison and insecurity: Kids often compare their everyday lives to others’ highlight reels, which can harm self-worth.
Cyberbullying: Words can wound deeply, especially when they come from peers and hide behind screens.
Exposure to harmful content: Inappropriate language, violence, sexuality, and distorted worldviews are just a click away.
Addiction and distraction: The endless scroll is designed to be addictive, stealing attention from school, family, and sleep.
Identity shaping: Social media can become a place where kids seek approval and identity instead of finding it in Christ.
Understanding these dangers isn’t about panic—it’s about awareness. Once we know what’s out there, we can prepare our kids to face it with wisdom.

2. Setting Boundaries
Boundaries aren’t just rules—they’re protective tools that help kids flourish. Here are some healthy boundaries to consider:
Set age-appropriate limits. Not every platform is suitable for every age. Know what your child is ready for.
Establish screen-free zones. Bedrooms, dinner tables, and car rides can be places for conversation and connection instead.
Limit screen time. Use parental controls and phone settings to encourage balance.
Review privacy settings. Make sure your child’s account is secure and they understand who can see their content.
Require accountability. Know their passwords, follow their accounts, and keep the conversation open.
Boundaries may evolve as your child grows, but consistency and communication are key.

3. Modeling Healthy Use
Kids are always watching—even when it seems like they aren’t. What they see from us often speaks louder than what we say.
Be present. Put your own phone down during family time or when your child is talking to you.
Watch your own posts. Do your social media habits reflect humility, integrity, and kindness?
Take breaks. Model digital rest by occasionally unplugging and explaining why it’s important.
Avoid double standards. If you expect them to follow certain guidelines, live by those principles yourself.
When kids see you using social media thoughtfully, it reinforces everything you’re trying to teach them.

4. Biblical Wisdom
Scripture doesn’t mention Instagram or TikTok, but it gives timeless principles that apply:
Guard your heart (Proverbs 4:23): What we consume shapes who we become.
Use words wisely (Ephesians 4:29): What we post should build up, not tear down.
Seek approval from God, not people (Galatians 1:10): Identity is rooted in Christ, not in likes or followers.
Walk in the light (1 John 1:7): Social media use should reflect honesty, integrity, and love.
Teaching kids to see their online life through the lens of God’s Word helps them live as whole people—on and off the screen.

5. Family Media Plan
A family media plan helps put all of this into action. Here’s how to build one together:
Create shared values. What does your family believe about tech use and why it matters?
Set clear expectations. Outline screen time, app usage, and consequences for misuse.
Schedule regular check-ins. Talk about what they’re seeing online, how it’s making them feel, and what they’re learning.
Include time for rest. Prioritize Sabbath rest from screens—whether it’s one day a week or a few hours each evening.
Keep the door open. Let your kids know they can always come to you with questions, struggles, or mistakes without fear of shame.
A good media plan isn’t rigid or punitive—it’s a relational guide built on trust, grace, and shared wisdom.

In a world of shifting values, polarized opinions, and cultural confusion, Christians often face the question: How do we live faithfully in today’s culture without losing our distinct identity or withdrawing altogether? The answer isn’t simple, but Scripture offers a framework—and Jesus offers the example—we need to walk faithfully. Let’s explore how we can navigate today’s culture with courage, clarity, and compassion.

1. Understanding Cultural Tension
We live in a time marked by rapid social change. Issues around identity, sexuality, politics, and morality dominate public conversations, often dividing communities and even churches. As Christians, we can feel caught in a tug-of-war between the values of the world and the values of the Kingdom. This tension is not new. God’s people have always lived “in the world but not of it” (John 17:14–16). The cultural tension we feel is actually a symptom of our citizenship in heaven clashing with the patterns of the world (Romans 12:2).
Recognizing this tension is key—not so we can escape it, but so we can respond with wisdom and faithfulness.

2. Jesus’ Example
Jesus was the perfect example of navigating culture. He entered a divided, oppressed, and spiritually confused world and engaged with it—not by withdrawing, but by loving, challenging, and redeeming it. He dined with sinners, spoke with women no one else would talk to, and confronted religious hypocrisy.
What stands out most is how Jesus never compromised truth, yet never withheld compassion. In John 1:14, He is described as being “full of grace and truth.” He held both in perfect tension. Where others would choose sides, Jesus chose love without dilution of truth. He offers us a model not of escape, but of faithful engagement.

3. Discernment vs. Withdrawal
One temptation when facing cultural confusion is withdrawal—retreating from the world to avoid its messiness. But Scripture doesn’t call us to isolate ourselves. We are to be a light to the world and salt of the earth (Matthew 5:13–16), which only happens through presence, not absence.
That said, engagement without discernment is just as dangerous. Discernment allows us to understand the cultural moment without being swept up by it. It helps us see beneath surface trends to the spiritual longings people carry—longings that only Christ can truly satisfy.
Discernment is prayerful, grounded in Scripture, and guided by the Holy Spirit. It helps us ask: Is this honoring to God? Does this reflect His truth? It enables us to engage wisely, not blindly.

4. Speaking Truth with Love
One of the hardest balances to strike is telling the truth without sounding harsh, or being loving without watering down what’s true. Yet Ephesians 4:15 calls us to “speak the truth in love.” That means our words should be both honest and compassionate.
Speaking the truth in love doesn’t mean being passive, nor does it mean being aggressive. It means being rooted in God’s truth and motivated by God’s heart. Whether we’re posting online, responding to a friend, or teaching our kids, we must ask: Is what I’m saying true? And is it loving?
People may not always agree with us—but they should always sense that we care about them.

5. Practical Tips for Everyday Faithfulness
Here are a few ways we can practically navigate today’s culture:
Stay rooted in Scripture. It’s our anchor in a shifting world.
Cultivate prayerful awareness. Ask God for discernment daily.
Build relationships, not echo chambers. Love people who think differently.
Model integrity. Let your life reflect what you believe.
Know when to speak—and when to listen. Both are acts of wisdom.
Teach the next generation. Don’t outsource truth formation to culture.
Guard your heart. What you consume shapes how you think and live.

In a world full of noise and confusion, Jesus calls us to live with clarity, compassion, and courage. Let’s not retreat or rage, but follow His example—grace and truth, side by side—as we faithfully navigate the culture we live in.
“Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” – Romans 12:21

Many believers find themselves asking, “Is it okay to doubt?” We know we’re supposed to have faith—but what happens when we have questions we can’t answer, or moments when God seems silent, or life doesn’t make sense?

The truth is, doubt is not the opposite of faith. It’s often a part of the journey.

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Doubt vs. Unbelief: What’s the Difference?

Let’s start by clarifying something important:

Doubt is questioning what you believe. It’s a tension between faith and uncertainty.
Unbelief is a willful decision to reject God and His truth.

Doubt asks, “Is this really true?”
Unbelief says, “I don’t want it to be true.”

Doubt wrestles. Unbelief walks away.

God isn’t afraid of your doubts. In fact, He invites your honest questions and meets you in the mess of them.

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Biblical Figures Who Doubted

Doubt is not new, and it’s certainly not unspiritual. Some of the most faithful people in Scripture experienced deep questions:

Thomas (John 20): Known as “Doubting Thomas,” he refused to believe Jesus had risen without physical proof. But Jesus didn’t shame him—He invited him to see and believe.

David (Psalms): David poured out his doubts in the Psalms: “How long, Lord? Will you forget me forever?” (Psalm 13:1). Yet he always came back to trust.

John the Baptist (Luke 7): Even after proclaiming Jesus as the Messiah, John sent messengers to ask, “Are you the one who is to come, or should we expect someone else?”

Job: In the depths of his suffering, Job questioned everything. And yet God didn’t rebuke him for doubting—He responded with a deeper revelation of Himself.

These stories show us that God doesn’t demand blind belief. He wants honest hearts.

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Why Doubt Can Strengthen Faith

Though it may feel uncomfortable, doubt can actually be a sign of growing faith. Why?

Because real faith isn’t passive. It asks. It seeks. It wrestles with the hard stuff and comes out more grounded on the other side.

> “Faith isn’t the absence of doubt. It’s the decision to trust God in the middle of it.”

Doubt can deepen your convictions. It pushes you to explore Scripture more deeply, pray more honestly, and understand what you really believe—not just what you’ve been told.

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How to Process Your Doubts

1. Be Honest With God
Don’t hide your questions. God can handle your confusion, anger, and uncertainty. Pour it out in prayer, just like the psalmists did.

2. Talk With Someone You Trust
Don’t go through it alone. A mentor, pastor, or spiritually mature friend can help you sort through your questions in a safe space.

3. Search the Scriptures
The Bible is full of stories of struggle, mystery, and grace. Bring your doubts to God’s Word and ask Him to speak through it.

4. Stay Connected
Doubt often makes us want to isolate. But being part of a community of faith can remind you that you’re not alone—and that others have wrestled too.

5. Wait on God
Answers don’t always come quickly. Sometimes, faith means trusting while you wait.

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Resources for When You’re Wrestling

Here are some books and resources that can help you process doubt in a thoughtful, faith-building way:

“The Case for Faith” by Lee Strobel – A journalist’s honest look at tough questions.
“Faith & Doubt” by John Ortberg – An encouraging look at how faith and doubt can coexist.
“Benefit of the Doubt” by Gregory Boyd – A deeper theological dive into trusting God with questions.
BibleProject videos and podcasts – Free, accessible content exploring Scripture’s complexity and beauty.

For many of us, sharing our faith can feel awkward or intimidating. We worry about saying the wrong thing, offending someone, or being seen as overly aggressive. In a culture that values personal choice and boundaries, how can we talk about Jesus in a way that’s both authentic and respectful?

The good news is: you don’t have to be pushy to be faithful. Sharing your faith is less about pressure and more about relationship, love, and genuine conversation.

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Misconceptions About Evangelism

Let’s start by clearing up some common myths:

Myth: You need all the answers.
Truth: You don’t need a theology degree to share your faith. You just need to be honest and real about what Jesus means to you.

Myth: Evangelism is always confrontational.
Truth: Evangelism doesn’t have to be a debate—it can be a dialogue rooted in care and curiosity.

Myth: If someone doesn’t respond right away, you’ve failed.
Truth: We’re called to plant seeds, not produce instant results. God handles the growth.

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Biblical Examples of Relational Evangelism

Jesus modeled a deeply relational approach. He didn’t force His message—He connected with people personally:

The woman at the well (John 4): Jesus began with conversation, not confrontation. He asked questions, acknowledged her life story, and revealed truth with compassion.
Zacchaeus (Luke 19): Jesus simply invited Himself into Zacchaeus’ home. That relationship led to transformation—not a lecture.
Philip and the Ethiopian (Acts 8): Philip started by listening and asking what the man was reading. He responded to a question rather than initiating a speech.

Evangelism in the Bible often looked like friendship, presence, and patience.

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Start by Listening

One of the best ways to share your faith is to become a good listener. Ask real questions. Get to know people’s stories, struggles, and beliefs.

When we listen first, we earn the right to speak. And when we genuinely care, people are more open to what we believe.

Ask questions like:

“What do you think about faith?”
“Have you ever had a spiritual experience?”
“What do you believe gives life meaning?”

You don’t need to force the conversation—just be open to where it leads.

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Share Your Story, Not a Script

You might not be able to explain every theological concept, but no one can argue with your personal story.

Share what God has done in your life:

How you’ve experienced hope, peace, or purpose
Times God has helped you through fear, failure, or doubt
How your relationship with Jesus makes a difference today

Keep it honest, humble, and real. You’re not trying to “win” someone over—you’re inviting them into something meaningful.

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Respecting Others’ Journey

People are at different points in their spiritual lives. Some are curious, some are skeptical, and some have been deeply hurt by religion. Respecting where they are doesn’t mean watering down your beliefs—it means loving them well, even if they never come to the same conclusions.

> “Always be prepared to give an answer… but do this with gentleness and respect.” – 1 Peter 3:15

God doesn’t need us to force anyone into the kingdom. He invites us to walk with people, plant seeds of truth, and trust Him with the outcome.

We all carry things we wish we could undo—words we regret, decisions we’d change, moments we’d take back if we could. While we may know, on a head level, that God forgives us, many of us still struggle to forgive ourselves. We walk through life weighed down by guilt and shame, wondering if we’ll ever feel clean again.

The good news? God’s grace isn’t just strong enough to forgive us—it’s strong enough to heal us from the inside out.

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Guilt and Shame: What’s the Difference?

Guilt says, “I did something wrong.”
Shame says, “I am something wrong.”

Guilt can be a healthy response to sin when it leads us to repentance. It nudges our hearts and reminds us something needs to be made right. But shame goes further—it tries to define us by our mistakes. It whispers that we’re too broken, too far gone, or too flawed to be loved by God or others.

God never intended for us to live under shame. His Spirit brings conviction, not condemnation (Romans 8:1).

Conviction vs. Condemnation

Conviction is a work of the Holy Spirit that points us back to God. It says, “Come home. Let me make you whole again.”
Condemnation, on the other hand, is the voice of the enemy. It says, “You’ll never change. Why even try?”

If you’re stuck in self-hate or feel disqualified from God’s love, that’s not conviction—that’s condemnation. And it’s a lie.

What Scripture Says About Forgiveness

The Bible is full of reminders that God’s forgiveness is complete and powerful:

1 John 1:9 – “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”
Psalm 103:12 – “As far as the east is from the west, so far has He removed our transgressions from us.”
Romans 8:1 – “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”
Isaiah 1:18 – “Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow.”

If God has chosen to forgive you, who are you to say otherwise?

Practical Steps to Accept God’s Grace and Forgive Yourself

1. Name the Guilt
Be honest about what’s bothering you. Confess it to God. He already knows, and He’s not afraid of your mess.

2. Receive God’s Forgiveness
Don’t just say “God forgives me”—believe it. Let Scripture remind you that His forgiveness is real, complete, and not based on how you feel.

3. Replace the Lies
When shame speaks, answer it with truth. Write down verses about God’s grace and speak them over yourself daily.

4. Talk to Someone
Sometimes healing comes through community. Talk with a trusted friend, pastor, or counselor who can help you process and pray.

5. Practice Grace Toward Yourself
You are a work in progress. Treat yourself with the same grace and patience you would offer to someone else.

A Prayer for When You Struggle to Forgive Yourself

> Lord, I come to You with the weight of my guilt and the ache of shame. I confess what I’ve done and what I’ve carried. I know You’ve forgiven me, but I still struggle to forgive myself. Help me to truly believe that Your grace is enough—not just for others, but for me too. Replace condemnation with peace, and shame with healing. Teach me to walk in the freedom You’ve already won for me. I surrender my past, my regrets, and my identity to You. Thank You for never giving up on me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

There are moments in every Christian’s life when God seems far away. We may pray and hear nothing. Worship feels empty. We read Scripture but feel no connection. These “dry” seasons can feel discouraging—confusing even. If God promises to be near, why does He sometimes feel so far?

You’re not alone. Feeling distant from God is a common, yet deeply personal, part of faith.

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Common Feelings of Distance

If you’ve ever asked questions like:

“Where are You, God?”
“Why can’t I feel You?”
“Did I do something wrong?”

—you’re in good company. Many faithful believers throughout history have wrestled with this. Spiritual dryness isn’t always a sign of weak faith—it can actually be part of a deeper invitation into trust, growth, and intimacy.

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Why Does God Feel Far?

There are several reasons why God may feel distant (even when He isn’t):

1. Sin

Unconfessed sin can dull our spiritual sensitivity. It builds a wall between us and God—not because He moves away, but because we do.

> “But your iniquities have separated you from your God; your sins have hidden his face from you, so that he will not hear.” – Isaiah 59:2

Thankfully, confession and repentance tear down that wall and restore closeness.

2. Suffering

Pain can cloud our sense of God’s presence. When we’re overwhelmed by grief, anxiety, or trauma, it’s easy to wonder if God has left us. Yet, suffering often brings us into a more honest and raw relationship with Him—if we keep coming to Him.

> “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” – Psalm 34:18

3. Silence

Sometimes, God is silent not because He’s absent, but because He’s working in the quiet. Silence can test our faith and invite us to mature beyond emotional experience into deeper trust.

> “Be still, and know that I am God.” – Psalm 46:10

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Biblical Examples of Distance

David often cried out in Psalms, “Why have You hidden Your face from me?”—yet he always returned to worship.
Job suffered deeply and questioned God’s nearness, but through it all, God was still working.
Jesus Himself cried from the cross, “My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?” (Matthew 27:46)—reminding us that even in our darkest moments, He understands.

These examples show us that distance doesn’t equal abandonment. God is still with us, even when we don’t feel Him.

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How to Seek God When He Feels Far

1. Keep Showing Up
Stay consistent in prayer, worship, and Scripture. You may not “feel” it right away, but your faithfulness honors God.

2. Be Honest
Tell God how you feel. He’s not offended by your questions or pain—He welcomes your vulnerability.

3. Confess and Surrender
If there’s unaddressed sin, confess it and receive His forgiveness. Surrender control and trust His timing.

4. Lean on Community
Let others carry you in prayer and encouragement when your strength is low. God often speaks through His people.

5. Look for Small Signs
God’s presence can be subtle. Look for Him in beauty, kindness, Scripture, and quiet moments. He often whispers rather than shouts.

As the school year begins, many families feel like they’re being launched into a whirlwind of early mornings, packed lunches, sports practices, homework, and social commitments. The slower pace of summer can quickly give way to tight schedules and long to-do lists. In the midst of all this busyness, how can families stay spiritually grounded and keep faith a central part of their lives?

Here are some reflections and practical ideas to help your family navigate the back-to-school season with intentionality and faith.

1. Challenges of Busy Schedules

One of the biggest struggles families face in the fall is finding time for one another—let alone making time for God. Between school, extracurriculars, and work, the calendar can feel overwhelming. It’s easy to slip into a routine where faith becomes just one more thing to “fit in,” rather than the foundation everything else is built upon.

This season calls for a mindset shift: instead of trying to squeeze God into our schedules, we’re invited to centre our schedules around Him.

2. Setting Priorities

Every family has values—whether spoken or unspoken—that guide how they use their time. A new school year is the perfect opportunity to reassess what matters most.

Here are a few simple questions to ask as a family:

What are the non-negotiables in our week?
How can we build rest and reflection into our routine?
Are there activities we need to say “no” to in order to say a better “yes” to God and each other?

By making intentional choices, you can create space for spiritual growth, even during the busiest seasons.

3. Family Devotion Ideas

You don’t need hours of free time to disciple your kids. Faith can be nurtured in short, meaningful moments. Here are a few ideas for quick and engaging family devotions:

Breakfast Blessings: Start the day by reading a verse over breakfast and praying together.
Verse of the Week: Pick a simple Scripture to memorize as a family. Post it on the fridge or bathroom mirror.
Thankful Thursdays: During dinner, each person shares something they’re thankful for and where they saw God during the week.
Storytime Devotionals: Use a children’s devotional book before bedtime to connect God’s Word to their daily life.

Even 5–10 minutes a day can go a long way in building spiritual rhythms.

4. Encouraging Faith Conversations on the Go

Faith doesn’t have to stay at the dinner table or church pew. In fact, some of the best conversations happen in the car or while walking to practice.

Look for natural moments to talk about faith:

After school: “What was something good and something hard about today? Where do you think God was in those moments?”
In the car: “How can we pray for your friends or classmates?”
At bedtime: “What did you learn today that reminded you of a Bible story?”

These everyday conversations help kids connect their faith with real life and show them that God is present in every part of their day.

5. Sample Weekly Plan

Here’s a sample plan to get you started—a flexible template that can be adjusted to your family’s needs:

Monday – Scripture
Read and discuss the week’s memory verse.
Tuesday – Prayer
Pray for classmates, teachers, and each other during breakfast.
Wednesday – Worship
Play a worship song in the car and talk about what it means.
Thursday – Thankfulness
Share “God sightings” and what you’re thankful for at dinner.
Friday – Reflection
Ask what was hard this week and how God helped you through it.
Saturday – Serve
Do something kind for a neighbour or family friend.
Sunday – Rest
Attend church and talk about the sermon over lunch.

Everywhere we look, creation declares the glory of God. From towering mountains to delicate wildflowers, from star-studded skies to the quiet rustle of leaves in the breeze, the world around us is a masterpiece that points to a Creator who delights in beauty, order, and life. Psalm 19:1 says, “The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands.” When we pause to truly see creation, we’re reminded of His greatness, creativity, and love.

Too often, we rush through our days without noticing the wonders around us. We miss the sunrise painting the sky with colour, the songs of birds greeting the morning, or the intricate design of a snowflake. But when we slow down and open our eyes, we realize that God has given us countless reminders of His presence and power. Creation invites us to worship—not just in church, but in every moment we witness His handiwork.

The beauty of creation also speaks to our own worth. Jesus taught that if God cares for the lilies of the field and the sparrows in the air, how much more does He care for us (Matthew 6:2630)? Nature is a daily reminder that we are seen and loved by a God who sustains all things.

In a world where so much feels chaotic, creation offers a sense of peace and stability. The sun rises every morning. Seasons come and go in their appointed times. These rhythms whisper to our souls that God is in control and His faithfulness endures.

So take time to step outside, breathe deeply, and marvel at the beauty of creation. Let it draw your heart to the One who made it all. Whether it’s a walk in the forest, sitting by a lake, or watching the clouds drift by, allow God to speak through the wonders He’s made—and let your heart respond in gratitude and awe.