Twelve hours ago, I didn’t plan to walk into a holy moment. I didn’t plan to have a conversation that peeled back the layers of pride, pain, religion, and false authority; but by the glory of God, He had other plans. My cousin Ryan invited me to work alongside him. What unfolded wasn’t just a good day or an encouraging talk.

“Stop being on bad terms with people that you love. Death is real and random.” A friend shared this recently, and it struck a chord. Not because it was novel, but because it was sobering. Simple truths like this often reveal the deepest fractures in our lives. Let Go of Past Resentment Before It Defines You Now that 2025 has arrived, instead of defaulting to the worn-out “new year, new me” narrative, perhaps we should reflect more honestly.

“Do not be conformed to this world , but be transformed by the renewing of your mind , so you may know the will of God—what is good, acceptable, and perfect.” – Romans 12:2 (AMP) Western culture often champions self-interest, moral relativism, and fleeting pleasures, sidelining biblical truths. This cultural mindset—what I call the “culture of death”—is evident in our relentless pursuit of individualism, instant gratification, and subjective morality over objective truth.

Anxiety affects everyone to varying degrees. It arises from uncertainty, fear of the future, past wounds, or the pressures we impose on ourselves. Sometimes, it feels like an indomitable force, clouding our judgment, overwhelming our hearts, and distorting our perception of reality. But what does God say about anxiety? How does He desire us to react when we feel burdened with worry?

Life is no aimless journey, nor are we mere spectators adrift on currents of chance. Instead, we are called to be co-creators with the divine Architect, actively shaping the contours of our existence in partnership with Him. This is not achieved only in grand, defining moments but in the quiet, sacred rhythms of our daily thought life. Scripture tells us, “For as he thinks in his heart, so is he” (Proverbs 23:7, AMP).

The writings of Seneca, a Stoic philosopher, resonated with me as a Christian, revealing similarities between the teachings of Jesus Christ and Stoicism. Both advocate virtue, self-control, and purpose. Love for neighbors and interconnectedness are emphasized in both, while Christianity stresses faith and grace, and Stoicism values acceptance and reason. I find that integrating both philosophies enriches my spiritual practice. Exploring these similarities has deepened my understanding and provided practical tools for personal development. As I continue on this dual path, I am open to learning from each philosophy's unique perspectives on leading a meaningful life.

Discover how mindfulness connects science and scripture in this enlightening article. Explore the profound benefits of mindfulness on mental well-being, cognitive function, and physical health, and examine its intriguing alignment with biblical teachings. Learn how integrating mindfulness practices can enhance focus, emotional resilience, and spiritual growth, enriching all aspects of life.

Experience the life-changing impact of humility, regular self-reflection, and bravery. Understand how these qualities can assist you in overcoming negativity, nurturing stronger connections, and leading a meaningful life despite life's unpredictabilities.

The tension between love and truth is one of the most challenging dynamics we face in relationships. It is a struggle familiar to anyone who has hesitated to speak the truth for fear of offense or misunderstanding. My pastor recently articulated, "Showing kindness without being honest is a form of manipulation." This statement invites us to reflect on the complex relationship between love, truth, and the courage needed to uphold both.

Discover the transformative power of self-reflection through a Christ-centered lens. Learn how prayerful solitude and intentional introspection can deepen your faith, enhance personal growth, and align your life with God’s purpose.

Learn how to discern God’s truth from the enemy’s lies. Explore practical tools for spiritual clarity, freedom from condemnation, and living in Christ’s love and truth.

Humanity, crafted in God’s triune image, faces fragmentation due to sin. Discover how Christ restores harmony among body, soul, and spirit, leading us into a life of spiritual wholeness and divine purpose.

Developing ourselves is a lifelong walk with opportunities, often demanding but fulfilling. Reexamining Jesus’ teachings in March this year restored my optimism and resolve. His way of living offers a framework of moral values that those with a humble spirit can embrace to construct stronger self-control and make a positive difference in the world. His strategies for uplifting our minds and nurturing inner peace are crucial, particularly in a harsh and challenging world that often feels cold and distant.

O Lord, You who devastate the darkness,From the chasm of my brokenness and aching heart, my cries rise to You.When shadows enshroud, suffocating my spirit,Your light bursts forth, igniting my exhausted soul. The iron chains I forged, the falsehoods I believed—They led me so distant from Your sacred refuge.I drowned in affliction due to my own rebellion and lost what was most precious to me.

In a moment of shared joy and freedom, the narrator reflects on a cherished relationship marked by deep connection and unspoken understanding. However, as the bond fades, feelings of loss and regret emerge, leading to a painful realization. Ultimately, they choose gratitude, hoping for a future reconnection while celebrating the other’s growth.