We've all asked ourselves this question... "What if...?" Often when reflecting on the past, this question comes as an inquisitive, often uninvited, visitor and I've learned to entertain its curiosity. A "what if" is a powerful thing. When they're used to torment us to despair and shame, it can tear us down quickly. But much … Continue reading The Impetuous Voice of Regret//The Power of What If
Keep forgiving.
Jen Wilkin is a speaker, writer, and teacher of women’s Bible studies. During her seventeen years of teaching, she has organized and led studies for women in home, church, and parachurch contexts. Jen and her family are members of the Village Church in Flower Mound, Texas. If you've ever asked yourself, "what is God's will for … Continue reading Book Recommendation: In His Image
When God Says No – What to do while waiting for the greater yes I can’t think of a harder pill to swallow. Praying for nearly a year and time after time being told no. Why would a God whose name is Love withhold this from me? I’ve had many conversations like this. Even with … Continue reading When God Says No
David Powlison is the executive director of CCEF (Christian Counseling and Education Foundation). He holds a Ph.D. from the University of Pennsylvania and an MDiv from Westminster Theological Seminary. He has written extensively on biblical counseling and on the relationship between faith and psychology. Although it's a topic we don't talk about much, it would be … Continue reading Book Recommendation: Making All Things New
*This is a collaboration with Josh Carman, My West Coast brother from another mother. To check out part two, head over to his blog at joshcarman.com* As a pastor for about a decade, one of the biggest discrepancies I encounter, quite often, is what it means to be connected with Jesus. Often times, people think … Continue reading The Secret to Peace PT. 1
This blog started off as something all together different....and to be honest it was to hide a little bit. As I wrote God broke my heart. I took a step back and started journaling. This was a conversation I had with God. So as a regular rhythm you may see my pauses to talk … Continue reading Where Strivings Cease
Our obsession with finding the will of God may be misplaced...maybe even unhealthy...it's time to check that obsession.
I'll never forget the conversation. I was sitting at my college ministry in Clemson talking with the campus minister over lunch. His wife was across the room doing the same with a small group of girls. While the girls were busy talking about relationships, Doug and I were busy talking about whether Clemson would take … Continue reading She Looks Like Jesus
https://soundcloud.com/user-98689163/action-figure-jesus-vs-actual-jesus-north-hills-college-ministry-matt-stephens-6-10-18 Scripture: Matthew 11: 28-33 Come to me, all you who are weary and budened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden … Continue reading Action Figure Jesus VS. Actual Jesus
Finding our hope 