ANC Blog

Christmas time can be so much fun. Kids are getting out of school, there’s snow glistening in the sky, families are getting together, and you can’t forget giving presents to each other. Personally, my favourite part of Christmas is the food. However, as magical and exciting as it is, oftentimes we can get lost in the wonder of the Christmas season. We remember Jesus, but we often forget that it all began with an ordinary couple. Mary and Joseph were just like us, and God threw their lives around, and rather than acting with pride and fear of public humiliation, they made a choice and faithfully obeyed.

Picture this: Mary and Joseph were pledged to be married when, all of a sudden, an angel appeared to Mary, telling her that despite her virginity, she was going to be pregnant through the Holy Spirit. Now, Mary, upon hearing this, was confused, afraid, and she faced potential shame as she and Joseph had not consummated their marriage, and yet, she was going to be pregnant. However, despite all of this, Luke 1 depicts that she responded with, “I am the Lord’s servant,” Mary answered. “May your word to me be fulfilled.” Even in this crisis, she surrendered to God. She trusted God’s Word and had faith, even when it disrupted everything.

In comparison, Joseph faced a challenge when he heard about Mary’s pregnancy. Joseph was faithful to the law, but he also cared very much about Mary and did not want to expose her to being disgraced by the public. He planned to simply quietly divorce her. However, an angel came to Joseph in a dream. The angel told Joseph not to be afraid, that the baby was conceived by the Holy Spirit, that she would give birth to a son, and that they would name Him Jesus. Then, Matthew 1 describes that, “When Joseph woke up, he did what the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took Mary home as his wife.” Now, Joseph does not speak a single word in the entirety of the Bible, but his actions speak louder than any words. Joseph was in a situation where others would misunderstand and judge. Despite this, Joseph did not argue and simply obeyed, showing deep trust in the Lord.

Mary and Joseph’s story teaches us a lot about humility. Mary’s example shows us that humility is saying “yes”, even when we don’t understand. Mary was in a very difficult situation with a lot of unknowns for her future, and yet, she had deep faith in the Lord and His plans for her. Joseph’s story, however, teaches us that humility acts quietly and faithfully. Joseph did not speak a single word; he simply put faith into action. Here are just a few ways in which we can put these lessons that Mary and Joseph have shown us into practice:

• • Model Mary’s humility. Trust God’s plan, wisdom, and timing over our own.
  • Prioritize prayer. When we want to rely on our own knowledge and have control over our lives, acknowledge our limitations. Depend on God’s guidance by praying, “Not my will, but yours be done.”
  • Model Joseph’s humility. Support each other’s burdens without drawing attention to ourselves.
  • Serve the Lord behind the scenes. Find ways to serve that do not involve being in the spotlight. For example, we can anonymously send encouragement to someone who needs it, or even serve the Church and community in roles that are not publicly seen.

We all have moments in our lives when we want something, and we wait and wait, and it just never seems to come. It could be prayers that feel like they are going unanswered. Or, it could be a change that you want in your life that never happens. Perhaps even a connection with someone you want to make or deepen, but it just doesn’t work out. Well, we are not alone. The season of Advent that we are entering reminds us that God’s people also once lived in a long season of longing and waiting.

Before Jesus came to the Earth, the Israelites were promised a Messiah, a Saviour who would bring hope, peace, and restoration to them. However, for centuries, all they received was oppression, exile, and silence. So many of them wondered if God had forgotten about them. They prayed for deliverance, but nothing seemed to change. This is where Advent begins: waiting, longing for God to bring about change, to show up for them, and to fulfil His promises to them.

Hundreds of years before Jesus was born, as Israel waited in darkness and disappointment, God spoke a promise to His people through the prophet Isaiah. This promise pointed them toward the hope that would eventually come. Isaiah 9:6-7 says this:

“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David’s throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the Lord Almighty will accomplish this.”

When Isaiah spoke these words, God’s people were longing for rescue from the exile and darkness in which they were in. They wondered when God would finally act. Through Isaiah, God assured them that He had not forgotten about them. God promised them a child would come, who would bring everlasting peace, justice, and restoration. This prophecy may have been 700 years before Jesus was born, but it reminded Israel, and it reminds us, that even when we are in seasons of waiting, longing for change, God is still working and keeps His promises to us.

So then, how can we take this opportunity to meet Jesus in our longings; to remember that God is still working and that He keeps His promises to us? We can turn our longing into simple, intentional prayer. Every time we have this ache and desire for something that we either don’t have yet or cannot have, let us stop and take a moment to talk to God about it. It does not have to be anything fancy, but just pray to God about it and ask Him to meet you where you are. As well, despite how crazy the Christmas season can become, we need to find time to slow down and make room for God. What we ultimately need is not another gift, but His presence.

As we do this, our longings gently point us forward. They remind us that we as Christians are still waiting for the day when Jesus returns, and brings with Him the fullness of the peace, justice, and restoration that He promised. Let us thank Him for the longing He awakens in us, and let it stir our hope for the day when He comes again. Advent teaches us to long, not just backward to the manger and Jesus’ birth, but also forward to His Kingdom and when He comes again.

“Fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith.” – Hebrews 12:2
Holidays are filled with traditions—decorating, baking, gathering with family, exchanging gifts. These moments shape our memories and form the culture of our homes. But if we’re not intentional, the busyness and consumerism can overshadow the true reason we celebrate. Creating Christ-centered traditions allows us to enjoy the beauty of the season while keeping our hearts focused on Jesus.

Why Traditions Matter
Traditions are powerful because they connect generations, create a sense of belonging, and shape what families value. In the Old Testament, God often called His people to establish rhythms and festivals as reminders of His faithfulness (see Deuteronomy 6:6–9). In the same way, our holiday traditions can be intentional reminders that point our families to Christ.

Ideas for Christmas
Here are some meaningful ways to center your Christmas traditions on Jesus:
Advent readings or candles – Read a passage of Scripture each evening leading up to Christmas, lighting candles to symbolize hope, peace, joy, and love.
Nativity focus – Set up a nativity scene and use it as a teaching tool for children, moving figures closer each day until Christmas Eve.
Birthday for Jesus – Bake a cake or have a special meal celebrating Christ’s birth.
Acts of kindness – Create a family tradition of serving others: deliver cookies to neighbors, donate toys, or volunteer together.
Christmas Eve Scripture reading – Read Luke 2 as a family before opening gifts or beginning celebrations.

Keeping Focus on Jesus
“Whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus.” – Colossians 3:17
It’s easy to get swept up in the noise of the season. To keep Christ at the center:
Begin celebrations with prayer.
Talk about the meaning of traditions and why your family does them.
Simplify when needed—less activity often means more space for reflection.
Use music, Scripture, and even décor to point hearts back to Christ.

Making Memories
Traditions aren’t just spiritual practices; they’re memory-makers. Children often remember the simple moments most: baking cookies while singing carols, sipping hot cocoa after serving at church, or reading the Christmas story in pajamas by the tree. When Christ is woven into these memories, they become lifelong anchors that remind them of His love.

Resources
Here are some helpful tools for building Christ-centered traditions:
Family Advent devotionals like Unwrapping the Names of Jesus by Asheritah Ciuciu.
Scripture-based Advent calendars (printable or DIY).
Christian Christmas storybooks for children.
Worship playlists that mix classic carols with Christ-focused songs.

Closing Prayer
Lord, thank You for the gift of celebration. Help us to build traditions that point our families to You. May our holidays not only bring joy but also deepen our love for Christ. Teach us to fix our eyes on Jesus this season and in every season. Amen.

“But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.” – 1 Peter 2:9
We all wrestle with questions of identity: Am I enough? Do I matter? Who am I really? The world often tries to answer with shifting labels—our job, appearance, success, or failures. But God’s Word gives us a solid foundation: our true identity is found in Christ.

Lies We Believe
Many of us carry false identities shaped by past wounds, culture, or our own insecurities. Lies like:
“I’m not good enough.”
“I’ll always be a failure.”
“I don’t matter.”
“God could never love someone like me.”
These lies distort the truth and keep us from living in the freedom God offers. Jesus reminds us, “You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free” (John 8:32).

Key Scriptures
God’s Word repeatedly tells us who we are in Him. A few powerful reminders include:
“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” – 2 Corinthians 5:17
“See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are!” – 1 John 3:1
“For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works.” – Ephesians 2:10
“There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” – Romans 8:1

Identity in Christ List
Here’s a snapshot of what God says about you:
I am chosen (Ephesians 1:4)
I am loved (Romans 8:38-39)
I am forgiven (Colossians 1:13-14)
I am a child of God (John 1:12)
I am free (Galatians 5:1)
I am a new creation (2 Corinthians 5:17)
I am God’s workmanship (Ephesians 2:10)
I am secure in Him (John 10:28-29)
I am more than a conqueror (Romans 8:37)
I am His temple (1 Corinthians 6:19)
This is who you are—not because of what you’ve done, but because of what Christ has done for you.

How Identity Affects Daily Living
When we know who we are in Christ, it changes how we live.
Confidence: Instead of seeking approval from people, we rest in God’s love.
Peace: We no longer strive to prove our worth; we live from a place of acceptance.
Purpose: We see our lives as part of God’s story, called to serve and shine His light.
Resilience: When trials come, our foundation is secure—we are not defined by our failures or circumstances, but by God’s truth.
Identity in Christ is more than theology; it’s the daily anchor of our lives.

Prayer
Father, thank You that my identity is secure in You. Forgive me for believing lies about who I am. Help me to silence the voices of doubt and listen to Your Word. Remind me that I am chosen, loved, forgiven, and free in Christ. Teach me to live each day from this truth, so that my life reflects Your glory. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Final Encouragement
The world will always try to tell you who you are, but God’s voice is the only one that matters. Stand firm in His truth: you are His beloved child, chosen and redeemed.
“For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God.” – Colossians 3:3

“Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines, though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food, though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will be joyful in God my Savior.”
– Habakkuk 3:17-18
Life is full of seasons of heartache—illness, loss, disappointment, financial struggles, broken relationships. In those moments, worship may feel like the last thing we want to do. And yet, Scripture calls us to lift our eyes beyond our circumstances and fix them on God. Worship in hardship is not denying our pain; it’s declaring that God is still worthy, even in the midst of it.

Examples of Worship in Hardship
The Bible is filled with men and women who chose worship in their darkest hours.
Job fell to the ground in worship after losing everything (Job 1:20-21).
Paul and Silas, beaten and chained in prison, prayed and sang hymns to God at midnight (Acts 16:25).
David often cried out to God in his psalms, honestly expressing grief and fear, but always turning back to praise (Psalm 42:5).
These stories remind us that worship isn’t about pretending life is easy—it’s about proclaiming God’s goodness even when life is hard.

Why Worship Matters in Pain
Worship reorients our perspective. Pain narrows our vision until all we can see is the problem in front of us. Worship widens our gaze back to God’s greatness, faithfulness, and promises. It helps us remember that He is bigger than our circumstances.
Worship also strengthens our hearts. Isaiah 61:3 says God gives us “the garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair.” Praise doesn’t remove the struggle, but it clothes us with hope, reminding us of who God is and what He has done.

Practical Ways to Praise
When life is hard, worship may not come easily. Here are some ways to begin:
Sing anyway – Put on worship music and let the words carry you when you don’t have any of your own.
Pray Scripture – Speak promises of God aloud (Psalm 23, Isaiah 41:10, Romans 8:28).
Keep a gratitude list – Even in suffering, there are small mercies to thank God for.
Worship with your body – Lift your hands, kneel, or simply sit quietly in God’s presence.
Join with others – Sometimes we need the faith of the church community to help lift our hearts.

Prayers
A Prayer of Honesty
“Lord, I confess that worship feels hard right now. My heart is heavy, my spirit is weary. But I choose to lift my eyes to You. Meet me here in my pain.”
A Prayer of Trust
“Father, I may not understand what I’m walking through, but I know You are faithful. Help me to trust Your heart when I can’t see Your hand.”
A Prayer of Praise
“God, You are still good, still holy, still worthy of all my worship. I praise You not because of my circumstances, but because of who You are.”

“But godliness with contentment is great gain.” – 1 Timothy 6:6
Our children are growing up in a world that constantly tells them they need more to be happy—more toys, more clothes, more gadgets, more experiences. As parents, we’re called to help them live differently, rooting their joy not in possessions but in God. Contentment is not something our kids will absorb from culture; it’s something they’ll learn through intentional teaching and example.
Here are five biblical ways to guide our children toward true contentment.

Recognizing Entitlement
“Do everything without grumbling or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure.” – Philippians 2:14-15
Entitlement whispers, “I deserve this.” It shows up when kids complain about what they don’t have or expect rewards without effort. Instead of ignoring or scolding, we can gently help them recognize it. A conversation might sound like: “I hear that you’re frustrated. But do you think we’re focusing more on what we don’t have instead of being thankful for what we do?” Helping our kids name entitlement keeps it from taking root and allows God’s truth to shape their hearts.

Teaching Gratitude
“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:18
Gratitude is the antidote to entitlement. Daily practices—like sharing one thing you’re thankful for before bed or writing thank-you cards—train kids to see God’s blessings. Gratitude reminds them that every good thing comes from above (James 1:17). When our children learn to give thanks, they shift their gaze from what’s missing to the abundance already present in their lives.

Serving Together
“The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” – Matthew 20:28
When families serve together, children discover that joy comes through giving, not getting. Serving at a food pantry, helping a neighbor, or visiting someone lonely helps kids develop empathy and see the needs of others. It grounds them in the truth that life is not about self, but about loving God and loving people. Jesus modeled this perfectly, and when our children serve, they follow in His footsteps.

Setting Limits
“Better is a little with the fear of the Lord than great treasure and turmoil with it.” – Proverbs 15:16
Boundaries aren’t punishment; they’re protection. When we set limits—whether on screen time, spending, or material possessions—we teach our children that enough is enough. Saying “no” builds character, patience, and appreciation. It also gives us moments to point them back to the truth that ultimate satisfaction isn’t found in more stuff but in Christ alone.

Encouraging Generosity
“Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” – 2 Corinthians 9:7
Generosity is the natural outflow of a grateful heart. Whether through giving to the church, donating toys, or sharing with siblings, we can encourage our children to open their hands freely. When they learn that giving doesn’t diminish joy but multiplies it, they experience the freedom of living with an eternal perspective.

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