If you're feeling a bit lost about the direction you want to take in life, you're certainly not alone (though that may not make you feel any better about it)! When we're young, the world is our oyster, and the possibilities are limitless--and that may be part of the problem. There are so many directions you can go that it's common to suffer from a bit of analysis paralysis. But, there's hope. You just need to be willing to engage in a bit of self-reflection. 1. Decide What YOU Want and Value Far too often, people fall prey … [Read more...]
3 Ways Churches Can Reverse the Absence of Millennials
There’s been much buzz on the Internet recently about the absence of young adults in churches. Numerous blogs, research statistics, and denominational reports point toward this significant decline. There have been countless comments and conversations about the reasons Millennials are not connecting to church. But I’m not quite ready to say "the sky is falling" just yet. Why? Because I believe the Lord is going to use this generation significantly to proclaim the kingdom of God in a world that’s seeking for hope in something. There … [Read more...]
Why the “Hook-Up Culture” Affects You
The hook-up culture -- this "no strings attached" paradigm toward casual sexual encounters -- has become the new normal among many Christian collegiates in America. According to Relevant magazine, "Eighty percent of young, unmarried Christians have had sex. Two-thirds have been sexually active in the last year. Even though, according to a recent Gallup poll, 76 percent of evangelicals believe sex outside of marriage is morally wrong." Yes, college students are having sex at alarmingly high rates, but truth be told, everyone is not … [Read more...]
8 Reasons to Study the Word During Finals Week
Finals week is a dreaded reality for many students. Surprise deadlines, group projects, and comprehensive exams can lead to a lot of stress. Fortunately, God’s Word is a great resource for this hectic season. Consider these eight reasons to study your Bible during finals week (according to Psalm 119): 1. Finals week can lead to some crazy emotions. I am weary from grief; strengthen me through Your word (v. 28). 2. You might be tempted by negative distractions (like a four-hour YouTube study break). Turn my eyes from … [Read more...]
3 Things to Remember When Sharing the Gospel
I’ve been in reflection mode after spending parts of the past three weeks in Panama City Beach, Fla. helping with Beach Reach 2014 (check out the Facebook page HERE). If you're not familiar with Beach Reach, here's a quick run down of what happens. College students from campus ministries and churches all over the country come to Panama City Beach (one of the hot spot destinations for college spring breakers) to provide free van rides, serve lots of pancakes every day, and genuinely share with the thousands of spring breakers that … [Read more...]