South Hills Idaho: Recent Episodes
Randy Sherwood
Welcome to the podcast from South Hills Church in Eagle, Idaho. You will always find our Sunday messages here, and, from time-to-time, may even find a bonus episode or two as well.
Who you are is largely due to who you’re with. But most of us don’t intentionally design an inner circle,
we default to hanging around with whoever happens to be around. Sometimes we get lucky. But for some of us, these convenient connections pull us further from who we want to be. Everyone says they know they need good people around them, but what does that mean? If you look at the lives of those you look up to, you’ll notice most of them have invested in four specific relationships. We see it in sports, business, entertainment, and even Scripture.
So… What are they? Why are they so important? And where do you find them? You know, without being weird. Because having these relationships won’t just make you a better person, they’ll make you a better family member.
Every Influencer has a list of things they think you should do. Some they’re being paid to say, some are ridiculous, and some are good ideas. But let’s be real: We can’t do all the good things everyone tells us to. We don’t have near enough time, energy, or money. so, how do you figure out what’s essential; even foundational? What are the few things that, if you committed to, will change everything around you? What if you did more than commit? What if you were consistent? If you were going to reorganize your life around faith, what few things would you need to do to become the best version of you?
Every Influencer has a list of things they think you should do. Some they’re being paid to say, some are ridiculous, and some are good ideas. But let’s be real: We can’t do all the good things everyone tells us to. We don’t have near enough time, energy, or money. so, how do you figure out what’s essential; even foundational? What are the few things that, if you committed to, will change everything around you? What if you did more than commit? What if you were consistent? If you were going to reorganize your life around faith, what few things would you need to do to become the best version of you?
Every Influencer has a list of things they think you should do. Some they’re being paid to say, some are ridiculous, and some are good ideas. But let’s be real: We can’t do all the good things everyone tells us to. We don’t have near enough time, energy, or money. so, how do you figure out what’s essential; even foundational? What are the few things that, if you committed to, will change everything around you? What if you did more than commit? What if you were consistent? If you were going to reorganize your life around faith, what few things would you need to do to become the best version of you?
Every Influencer has a list of things they think you should do. Some they’re being paid to say, some are ridiculous, and some are good ideas. But let’s be real: We can’t do all the good things everyone tells us to. We don’t have near enough time, energy, or money. so, how do you figure out what’s essential; even foundational? What are the few things that, if you committed to, will change everything around you? What if you did more than commit? What if you were consistent? If you were going to reorganize your life around faith, what few things would you need to do to become the best version of you?
Life is hard. We all have to deal with our share of disappointment, drama, stress, and trying not to snap when people push our buttons. Ever feel like you’re just making it up as you go? Thank God for the Internet, right? It's got hacks for everything from the best way to fold a shirt to the best way to eat a cupcake. And... thx!
But... what about the big stuff? You know - the category that keeps you up at night; all the unbelievably difficult moments and draining people? Why do you keep getting stumped by the same problems & what do you do about it?
That's what this whole series is about -- real life.
And we think you'll be surprised by just how relevant this ancient wisdom is to life right now.
https://southhills.org/idaho/
Life is hard. We all have to deal with our share of disappointment, drama, stress, and trying not to snap when people push our buttons. Ever feel like you’re just making it up as you go? Thank God for the Internet, right? It's got hacks for everything from the best way to fold a shirt to the best way to eat a cupcake. And... thx!
But... what about the big stuff? You know - the category that keeps you up at night; all the unbelievably difficult moments and draining people? Why do you keep getting stumped by the same problems & what do you do about it?
That's what this whole series is about -- real life.
And we think you'll be surprised by just how relevant this ancient wisdom is to life right now.
https://southhills.org/idaho/
Life is hard. We all have to deal with our share of disappointment, drama, stress, and trying not to snap when people push our buttons. Ever feel like you’re just making it up as you go? Thank God for the Internet, right? It's got hacks for everything from the best way to fold a shirt to the best way to eat a cupcake. And... thx!
But... what about the big stuff? You know - the category that keeps you up at night; all the unbelievably difficult moments and draining people? Why do you keep getting stumped by the same problems & what do you do about it?
That's what this whole series is about -- real life.
And we think you'll be surprised by just how relevant this ancient wisdom is to life right now.
https://southhills.org/idaho/
Life is hard. We all have to deal with our share of disappointment, drama, stress, and trying not to snap when people push our buttons. Ever feel like you’re just making it up as you go? Thank God for the Internet, right? It's got hacks for everything from the best way to fold a shirt to the best way to eat a cupcake. And... thx!
But... what about the big stuff? You know - the category that keeps you up at night; all the unbelievably difficult moments and draining people? Why do you keep getting stumped by the same problems & what do you do about it?
That's what this whole series is about -- real life.
And we think you'll be surprised by just how relevant this ancient wisdom is to life right now.
https://southhills.org/idaho/
Life is hard. We all have to deal with our share of disappointment, drama, stress, and trying not to snap when people push our buttons. Ever feel like you’re just making it up as you go? Thank God for the Internet, right? It's got hacks for everything from the best way to fold a shirt to the best way to eat a cupcake. And... thx!
But... what about the big stuff? You know - the category that keeps you up at night; all the unbelievably difficult moments and draining people? Why do you keep getting stumped by the same problems & what do you do about it?
That's what this whole series is about -- real life.
And we think you'll be surprised by just how relevant this ancient wisdom is to life right now.
https://southhills.org/idaho/
Life is hard. We all have to deal with our share of disappointment, drama, stress, and trying not to snap when people push our buttons. Ever feel like you’re just making it up as you go? Thank God for the Internet, right? It's got hacks for everything from the best way to fold a shirt to the best way to eat a cupcake. And... thx!
But... what about the big stuff? You know - the category that keeps you up at night; all the unbelievably difficult moments and draining people? Why do you keep getting stumped by the same problems & what do you do about it?
That's what this whole series is about -- real life.
And we think you'll be surprised by just how relevant this ancient wisdom is to life right now.
https://southhills.org/idaho/
Life is hard. We all have to deal with our share of disappointment, drama, stress, and trying not to snap when people push our buttons. Ever feel like you’re just making it up as you go? Thank God for the Internet, right? It's got hacks for everything from the best way to fold a shirt to the best way to eat a cupcake. And... thx!
But... what about the big stuff? You know - the category that keeps you up at night; all the unbelievably difficult moments and draining people? Why do you keep getting stumped by the same problems & what do you do about it?
That's what this whole series is about -- real life.
And we think you'll be surprised by just how relevant this ancient wisdom is to life right now.
https://southhills.org/idaho/
Life is hard. We all have to deal with our share of disappointment, drama, stress, and trying not to snap when people push our buttons. Ever feel like you’re just making it up as you go? Thank God for the Internet, right? It's got hacks for everything from the best way to fold a shirt to the best way to eat a cupcake. And... thx!
But... what about the big stuff? You know - the category that keeps you up at night; all the unbelievably difficult moments and draining people? Why do you keep getting stumped by the same problems & what do you do about it?
That's what this whole series is about -- real life.
And we think you'll be surprised by just how relevant this ancient wisdom is to life right now.
https://southhills.org/idaho/
Everybody wants to live an intentional, meaningful, satisfying life. We want God’s best. Is this it though? Does your life feel smaller than you thought it’d be? Why is that? Isn’t Jesus supposed to make everything better? Didn’t He say He came to bring us life to the full? Full of what?? My life is full of stress, insecurity, and failure. Why can’t we seem to step into the dreams God put inside us? Influencers keep telling us, "Just go for it.” But you can’t. You’re stuck. What would it look like to overcome your excuses and take a step forward? Is it possible that the most spiritual thing you can do is let God kick your but.
Everybody wants to live an intentional, meaningful, satisfying life. We want God’s best. Is this it though? Does your life feel smaller than you thought it’d be? Why is that? Isn’t Jesus supposed to make everything better? Didn’t He say He came to bring us life to the full? Full of what?? My life is full of stress, insecurity, and failure. Why can’t we seem to step into the dreams God put inside us? Influencers keep telling us, "Just go for it.” But you can’t. You’re stuck. What would it look like to overcome your excuses and take a step forward? Is it possible that the most spiritual thing you can do is let God kick your but.
Everybody wants to live an intentional, meaningful, satisfying life. We want God’s best. Is this it though? Does your life feel smaller than you thought it’d be? Why is that? Isn’t Jesus supposed to make everything better? Didn’t He say He came to bring us life to the full? Full of what?? My life is full of stress, insecurity, and failure. Why can’t we seem to step into the dreams God put inside us? Influencers keep telling us, "Just go for it.” But you can’t. You’re stuck. What would it look like to overcome your excuses and take a step forward? Is it possible that the most spiritual thing you can do is let God kick your but.
Everybody wants to live an intentional, meaningful, satisfying life. We want God’s best. Is this it though? Does your life feel smaller than you thought it’d be? Why is that? Isn’t Jesus supposed to make everything better? Didn’t He say He came to bring us life to the full? Full of what?? My life is full of stress, insecurity, and failure. Why can’t we seem to step into the dreams God put inside us? Influencers keep telling us, "Just go for it.” But you can’t. You’re stuck. What would it look like to overcome your excuses and take a step forward? Is it possible that the most spiritual thing you can do is let God kick your but.
No matter what you believe about Jesus, you have an image in your mind of who he is. Most people picture someone unwaveringly kind, caring, and gentle. And he is those things. But if you read through the Gospels, Jesus regularly said and did things that seem like that opposite of the way we picture him. Why is that? Are we misreading these stories or have we misjudged Jesus?
No matter what you believe about Jesus, you have an image in your mind of who he is. Most people picture someone unwaveringly kind, caring, and gentle. And he is those things. But if you read through the Gospels, Jesus regularly said and did things that seem like that opposite of the way we picture him. Why is that? Are we misreading these stories or have we misjudged Jesus?
No matter what you believe about Jesus, you have an image in your mind of who he is. Most people picture someone unwaveringly kind, caring, and gentle. And he is those things. But if you read through the Gospels, Jesus regularly said and did things that seem like that opposite of the way we picture him. Why is that? Are we misreading these stories or have we misjudged Jesus?
No matter what you believe about Jesus, you have an image in your mind of who he is. Most people picture someone unwaveringly kind, caring, and gentle. And he is those things. But if you read through the Gospels, Jesus regularly said and did things that seem like that opposite of the way we picture him. Why is that? Are we misreading these stories or have we misjudged Jesus?
No matter what you believe about Jesus, you have an image in your mind of who he is. Most people picture someone unwaveringly kind, caring, and gentle. And he is those things. But if you read through the Gospels, Jesus regularly said and did things that seem like that opposite of the way we picture him. Why is that? Are we misreading these stories or have we misjudged Jesus?
Celebrating the story that turned the world upside down and why it still matters today.
Everyone’s facing something; Things we’re battling but aren’t sure we can beat—goals we want to reach, habits we want to break, relationships we want to rescue. But significant victories don’t come easy. The sheer size of the fight in front of us can leave us anxious, overwhelmed, and exhausted. How do we keep from giving up? There was a warrior king in the Old Testament who overcame insurmountable odds, time and again. His secret: FIGHT SONGS.
Like an athlete playing pump-up music before a big game, David leveraged certain lyrics to fortify him for the fight in front of him. One collection came to be known as Psalm 23. Is it possible this ancient anthem can do for us what it did for him? And if so, how?
Everyone’s facing something; Things we’re battling but aren’t sure we can beat—goals we want to reach, habits we want to break, relationships we want to rescue. But significant victories don’t come easy. The sheer size of the fight in front of us can leave us anxious, overwhelmed, and exhausted. How do we keep from giving up? There was a warrior king in the Old Testament who overcame insurmountable odds, time and again. His secret: FIGHT SONGS.
Like an athlete playing pump-up music before a big game, David leveraged certain lyrics to fortify him for the fight in front of him. One collection came to be known as Psalm 23. Is it possible this ancient anthem can do for us what it did for him? And if so, how?
Everyone’s facing something; Things we’re battling but aren’t sure we can beat—goals we want to reach, habits we want to break, relationships we want to rescue. But significant victories don’t come easy. The sheer size of the fight in front of us can leave us anxious, overwhelmed, and exhausted. How do we keep from giving up? There was a warrior king in the Old Testament who overcame insurmountable odds, time and again. His secret: FIGHT SONGS.
Like an athlete playing pump-up music before a big game, David leveraged certain lyrics to fortify him for the fight in front of him. One collection came to be known as Psalm 23. Is it possible this ancient anthem can do for us what it did for him? And if so, how?
Everyone’s facing something; Things we’re battling but aren’t sure we can beat—goals we want to reach, habits we want to break, relationships we want to rescue. But significant victories don’t come easy. The sheer size of the fight in front of us can leave us anxious, overwhelmed, and exhausted. How do we keep from giving up? There was a warrior king in the Old Testament who overcame insurmountable odds, time and again. His secret: FIGHT SONGS.
Like an athlete playing pump-up music before a big game, David leveraged certain lyrics to fortify him for the fight in front of him. One collection came to be known as Psalm 23. Is it possible this ancient anthem can do for us what it did for him? And if so, how?
Everyone’s facing something; Things we’re battling but aren’t sure we can beat—goals we want to reach, habits we want to break, relationships we want to rescue. But significant victories don’t come easy. The sheer size of the fight in front of us can leave us anxious, overwhelmed, and exhausted. How do we keep from giving up? There was a warrior king in the Old Testament who overcame insurmountable odds, time and again. His secret: FIGHT SONGS.
Like an athlete playing pump-up music before a big game, David leveraged certain lyrics to fortify him for the fight in front of him. One collection came to be known as Psalm 23. Is it possible this ancient anthem can do for us what it did for him? And if so, how?
Everyone’s facing something; Things we’re battling but aren’t sure we can beat—goals we want to reach, habits we want to break, relationships we want to rescue. But significant victories don’t come easy. The sheer size of the fight in front of us can leave us anxious, overwhelmed, and exhausted. How do we keep from giving up? There was a warrior king in the Old Testament who overcame insurmountable odds, time and again. His secret: FIGHT SONGS.
Like an athlete playing pump-up music before a big game, David leveraged certain lyrics to fortify him for the fight in front of him. One collection came to be known as Psalm 23. Is it possible this ancient anthem can do for us what it did for him? And if so, how?
We all want someone to share our lives with. But finding the right person is hard and making it work with them is even harder. Most relationships don’t last and those that do don’t always seem all that happy. Why are romantic relationships in our culture getting shorter and our satisfaction with them getting lower?
Could any of this have something to do with the pace at which the world works now and our inability to adapt? What if your partner isn’t the problem? What if you’re not bad at relationships, you’re just bad at managing stress? And if that’s true, how could changing that breathe new life in to your love story
We all want someone to share our lives with. But finding the right person is hard and making it work with them is even harder. Most relationships don’t last and those that do don’t always seem all that happy. Why are romantic relationships in our culture getting shorter and our satisfaction with them getting lower?
Could any of this have something to do with the pace at which the world works now and our inability to adapt? What if your partner isn’t the problem? What if you’re not bad at relationships, you’re just bad at managing stress? And if that’s true, how could changing that breathe new life in to your love story
We all want someone to share our lives with. But finding the right person is hard and making it work with them is even harder. Most relationships don’t last and those that do don’t always seem all that happy. Why are romantic relationships in our culture getting shorter and our satisfaction with them getting lower?
Could any of this have something to do with the pace at which the world works now and our inability to adapt? What if your partner isn’t the problem? What if you’re not bad at relationships, you’re just bad at managing stress? And if that’s true, how could changing that breathe new life in to your love story
We all want someone to share our lives with. But finding the right person is hard and making it work with them is even harder. Most relationships don’t last and those that do don’t always seem all that happy. Why are romantic relationships in our culture getting shorter and our satisfaction with them getting lower?
Could any of this have something to do with the pace at which the world works now and our inability to adapt? What if your partner isn’t the problem? What if you’re not bad at relationships, you’re just bad at managing stress? And if that’s true, how could changing that breathe new life in to your love story
What if the most nightmarish neighbor you know looks at you in the mirror every morning?
There’s something sinister on your street. It’s noisy, messy, opinionated, uncooperative, and inconsiderate. It’s the most disturbing creature known to man… a Bad Neighbor. You like where you live, but there’s no telling who (or what) is lurking next door. The possibilities are terrifying. You already know the major plot points: what they drive, how often they mow, who they voted for. You do your best to avoid them. The thought of mail-box small talk with these monsters sends shivers down your spine. Shouldn’t we all just mind our own business and keep to ourselves? But… what if the most nightmarish neighbor you know looks at you in the mirror every morning?
Jesus seemed to think loving your neighbors was a big deal. But He didn’t mean it, did He? How does someone become a Bad Neighbor anyway?
There’s something sinister on your street. It’s noisy, messy, opinionated, uncooperative, and inconsiderate. It’s the most disturbing creature known to man… a Bad Neighbor. You like where you live, but there’s no telling who (or what) is lurking next door. The possibilities are terrifying. You already know the major plot points: what they drive, how often they mow, who they voted for. You do your best to avoid them. The thought of mail-box small talk with these monsters sends shivers down your spine. Shouldn’t we all just mind our own business and keep to ourselves? But… what if the most nightmarish neighbor you know looks at you in the mirror every morning?
Jesus seemed to think loving your neighbors was a big deal. But He didn’t mean it, did He? How does someone become a Bad Neighbor anyway?
There’s something sinister on your street. It’s noisy, messy, opinionated, uncooperative, and inconsiderate. It’s the most disturbing creature known to man… a Bad Neighbor. You like where you live, but there’s no telling who (or what) is lurking next door. The possibilities are terrifying. You already know the major plot points: what they drive, how often they mow, who they voted for. You do your best to avoid them. The thought of mail-box small talk with these monsters sends shivers down your spine. Shouldn’t we all just mind our own business and keep to ourselves? But… what if the most nightmarish neighbor you know looks at you in the mirror every morning?
Jesus seemed to think loving your neighbors was a big deal. But He didn’t mean it, did He? How does someone become a Bad Neighbor anyway?
A ‘thrill’ is essentially ‘enjoyably nervous excitement’—the kind we feel on rollercoasters or in suspenseful movies. But poets from our faith tradition often describe the feeling ofChristmas as ‘The Thrill of Hope’. Every year, the December air is thick with it. Ancient songwriters and storytellers seemed to believe the birth of Jesus somehow stirs up a sense that things are going to get better in the hearts of those onthe verge of giving up. This is especially profound when you realize who they claim first felt this thrill—people on the fringe: nameless shepherds, an invisible innkeeper, an unprepared father. And yet their roles in this storychanged all of human history.
What if God what did for them that first Christmas is something He longs to do in you this Christmas—to show you the significance of you role in His story & instill in you a hope every bit as thrilling as it is fulfilling?
A ‘thrill’ is essentially ‘enjoyably nervous excitement’—the kind we feel on rollercoasters or in suspenseful movies. But poets from our faith tradition often describe the feeling ofChristmas as ‘The Thrill of Hope’. Every year, the December air is thick with it. Ancient songwriters and storytellers seemed to believe the birth of Jesus somehow stirs up a sense that things are going to get better in the hearts of those onthe verge of giving up. This is especially profound when you realize who they claim first felt this thrill—people on the fringe: nameless shepherds, an invisible innkeeper, an unprepared father. And yet their roles in this storychanged all of human history.
What if God what did for them that first Christmas is something He longs to do in you this Christmas—to show you the significance of you role in His story & instill in you a hope every bit as thrilling as it is fulfilling?
A ‘thrill’ is essentially ‘enjoyably nervous excitement’—the kind we feel on rollercoasters or in suspenseful movies. But poets from our faith tradition often describe the feeling ofChristmas as ‘The Thrill of Hope’. Every year, the December air is thick with it. Ancient songwriters and storytellers seemed to believe the birth of Jesus somehow stirs up a sense that things are going to get better in the hearts of those onthe verge of giving up. This is especially profound when you realize who they claim first felt this thrill—people on the fringe: nameless shepherds, an invisible innkeeper, an unprepared father. And yet their roles in this storychanged all of human history.
What if God what did for them that first Christmas is something He longs to do in you this Christmas—to show you the significance of you role in His story & instill in you a hope every bit as thrilling as it is fulfilling?
The world is on fire. Or at least it feels like it. Our news networks, social feeds, and email inboxes are full of evidence to confirm our suspicions that everything is falling apart. Nothing is as it should be, and it’s only getting worse. Everything we care about, believe in, and rely on is in danger. The end is near. But…if we could just get this person into office, or that policy into place, or this party into power—everything will be ok.
Both sides promise they can save us, and their opponent will enslave us. How do we handle all this conflicting information and the overwhelming anxiety that comes with it? What are we supposed to do? Where is God in all this? And how can someone follow Jesus well when everything & everyone around them feels like it’s falling apart?
The world is on fire. Or at least it feels like it. Our news networks, social feeds, and email inboxes are full of evidence to confirm our suspicions that everything is falling apart. Nothing is as it should be, and it’s only getting worse. Everything we care about, believe in, and rely on is in danger. The end is near. But…if we could just get this person into office, or that policy into place, or this party into power—everything will be ok.
Both sides promise they can save us, and their opponent will enslave us. How do we handle all this conflicting information and the overwhelming anxiety that comes with it? What are we supposed to do? Where is God in all this? And how can someone follow Jesus well when everything & everyone around them feels like it’s falling apart?
The world is on fire. Or at least it feels like it. Our news networks, social feeds, and email inboxes are full of evidence to confirm our suspicions that everything is falling apart. Nothing is as it should be, and it’s only getting worse. Everything we care about, believe in, and rely on is in danger. The end is near. But…if we could just get this person into office, or that policy into place, or this party into power—everything will be ok.
Both sides promise they can save us, and their opponent will enslave us. How do we handle all this conflicting information and the overwhelming anxiety that comes with it? What are we supposed to do? Where is God in all this? And how can someone follow Jesus well when everything & everyone around them feels like it’s falling apart?
The world is on fire. Or at least it feels like it. Our news networks, social feeds, and email inboxes are full of evidence to confirm our suspicions that everything is falling apart. Nothing is as it should be, and it’s only getting worse. Everything we care about, believe in, and rely on is in danger. The end is near. But…if we could just get this person into office, or that policy into place, or this party into power—everything will be ok.
Both sides promise they can save us, and their opponent will enslave us. How do we handle all this conflicting information and the overwhelming anxiety that comes with it? What are we supposed to do? Where is God in all this? And how can someone follow Jesus well when everything & everyone around them feels like it’s falling apart?
Words are powerful. Years later, you can recall something someone said (to or about you) because of the way it elevated or devastated you. We don’t often think before we speak (and sometimes even less before we type, text or post). But our words have the potential to bless and curse, heal and hurt, bring life or even death. Words, to a large degree, determine destiny. And according to research, some have an even bigger impact than others.
What if when your kindergarten teacher told you to, “Say the magic words!”, she was onto something significant?
And if so, what words, if understood fully and incorporated regularly, might have the ability to reform our relationships with ourselves, each other, and the world at large?
Words are powerful. Years later, you can recall something someone said (to or about you) because of the way it elevated or devastated you. We don’t often think before we speak (and sometimes even less before we type, text or post). But our words have the potential to bless and curse, heal and hurt, bring life or even death. Words, to a large degree, determine destiny. And according to research, some have an even bigger impact than others.
What if when your kindergarten teacher told you to, “Say the magic words!”, she was onto something significant?
And if so, what words, if understood fully and incorporated regularly, might have the ability to reform our relationships with ourselves, each other, and the world at large?
Words are powerful. Years later, you can recall something someone said (to or about you) because of the way it elevated or devastated you. We don’t often think before we speak (and sometimes even less before we type, text or post). But our words have the potential to bless and curse, heal and hurt, bring life or even death. Words, to a large degree, determine destiny. And according to research, some have an even bigger impact than others.
What if when your kindergarten teacher told you to, “Say the magic words!”, she was onto something significant?
And if so, what words, if understood fully and incorporated regularly, might have the ability to reform our relationships with ourselves, each other, and the world at large?
Words are powerful. Years later, you can recall something someone said (to or about you) because of the way it elevated or devastated you. We don’t often think before we speak (and sometimes even less before we type, text or post). But our words have the potential to bless and curse, heal and hurt, bring life or even death. Words, to a large degree, determine destiny. And according to research, some have an even bigger impact than others.
What if when your kindergarten teacher told you to, “Say the magic words!”, she was onto something significant?
And if so, what words, if understood fully and incorporated regularly, might have the ability to reform our relationships with ourselves, each other, and the world at large?
Many of us take our senses for granted, unless we can’t access them—as anyone knows who’s lost the ability to taste to a stuffy nose. But what if there are all sorts of meaningful experiences you’re missing even when all five senses are functioning? In Scripture God describes the relationship He wants with humanity as highly sensory. That’s why ancient faith was thoroughly experiential, not purely intellectual. Could the distance you sometimes feel in your relationship with God (or others) be the result of being out-of-sync with your senses? What would you do about it if that were true? Could learning to more mindfully see, hear, smell, taste, and touch unleash a level of fulfillment you’ve been too distracted to even know existed?
Many of us take our senses for granted, unless we can’t access them—as anyone knows who’s lost the ability to taste to a stuffy nose. But what if there are all sorts of meaningful experiences you’re missing even when all five senses are functioning? In Scripture God describes the relationship He wants with humanity as highly sensory. That’s why ancient faith was thoroughly experiential, not purely intellectual. Could the distance you sometimes feel in your relationship with God (or others) be the result of being out-of-sync with your senses? What would you do about it if that were true? Could learning to more mindfully see, hear, smell, taste, and touch unleash a level of fulfillment you’ve been too distracted to even know existed?
Many of us take our senses for granted, unless we can’t access them—as anyone knows who’s lost the ability to taste to a stuffy nose. But what if there are all sorts of meaningful experiences you’re missing even when all five senses are functioning? In Scripture God describes the relationship He wants with humanity as highly sensory. That’s why ancient faith was thoroughly experiential, not purely intellectual. Could the distance you sometimes feel in your relationship with God (or others) be the result of being out-of-sync with your senses? What would you do about it if that were true? Could learning to more mindfully see, hear, smell, taste, and touch unleash a level of fulfillment you’ve been too distracted to even know existed?
Many of us take our senses for granted, unless we can’t access them—as anyone knows who’s lost the ability to taste to a stuffy nose. But what if there are all sorts of meaningful experiences you’re missing even when all five senses are functioning? In Scripture God describes the relationship He wants with humanity as highly sensory. That’s why ancient faith was thoroughly experiential, not purely intellectual. Could the distance you sometimes feel in your relationship with God (or others) be the result of being out-of-sync with your senses? What would you do about it if that were true? Could learning to more mindfully see, hear, smell, taste, and touch unleash a level of fulfillment you’ve been too distracted to even know existed?
You’ve been around long enough to realize everyone is not the same. Some people can go through almost identical situations but read and react to them in very different ways. We’ve all had moments where we sat back and wondered – “What’s their deal? Why did they freak out about that? But we’re fine with this? Why are they like that?” What if the people around you wonder the same thing? There’s something deep inside each other’s responses, thinking – where is that coming from? What’s the thing behind the thing? There’s something deep inside each of us driving everything we do. Wouldn’t it be helpful if you knew what it was? We’re all living our lives in an attempt at getting single, primal question answered with a “yes”. What’s yours? How did it get there? And how can you leverage it to help (not hurt) you and others?
You’ve been around long enough to realize everyone is not the same. Some people can go through almost identical situations but read and react to them in very different ways. We’ve all had moments where we sat back and wondered – “What’s their deal? Why did they freak out about that? But we’re fine with this? Why are they like that?” What if the people around you wonder the same thing? There’s something deep inside each other’s responses, thinking – where is that coming from? What’s the thing behind the thing? There’s something deep inside each of us driving everything we do. Wouldn’t it be helpful if you knew what it was? We’re all living our lives in an attempt at getting single, primal question answered with a “yes”. What’s yours? How did it get there? And how can you leverage it to help (not hurt) you and others?
You’ve been around long enough to realize everyone is not the same. Some people can go through almost identical situations but read and react to them in very different ways. We’ve all had moments where we sat back and wondered – “What’s their deal? Why did they freak out about that? But we’re fine with this? Why are they like that?” What if the people around you wonder the same thing? There’s something deep inside each other’s responses, thinking – where is that coming from? What’s the thing behind the thing? There’s something deep inside each of us driving everything we do. Wouldn’t it be helpful if you knew what it was? We’re all living our lives in an attempt at getting single, primal question answered with a “yes”. What’s yours? How did it get there? And how can you leverage it to help (not hurt) you and others?
You’ve been around long enough to realize everyone is not the same. Some people can go through almost identical situations but read and react to them in very different ways. We’ve all had moments where we sat back and wondered – “What’s their deal? Why did they freak out about that? But we’re fine with this? Why are they like that?” What if the people around you wonder the same thing? There’s something deep inside each other’s responses, thinking – where is that coming from? What’s the thing behind the thing? There’s something deep inside each of us driving everything we do. Wouldn’t it be helpful if you knew what it was? We’re all living our lives in an attempt at getting single, primal question answered with a “yes”. What’s yours? How did it get there? And how can you leverage it to help (not hurt) you and others?
You’ve been around long enough to realize everyone is not the same. Some people can go through almost identical situations but read and react to them in very different ways. We’ve all had moments where we sat back and wondered – “What’s their deal? Why did they freak out about that? But we’re fine with this? Why are they like that?” What if the people around you wonder the same thing? There’s something deep inside each other’s responses, thinking – where is that coming from? What’s the thing behind the thing? There’s something deep inside each of us driving everything we do. Wouldn’t it be helpful if you knew what it was? We’re all living our lives in an attempt at getting single, primal question answered with a “yes”. What’s yours? How did it get there? And how can you leverage it to help (not hurt) you and others?
You’ve been around long enough to realize everyone is not the same. Some people can go through almost identical situations but read and react to them in very different ways. We’ve all had moments where we sat back and wondered – “What’s their deal? Why did they freak out about that? But we’re fine with this? Why are they like that?” What if the people around you wonder the same thing? There’s something deep inside each other’s responses, thinking – where is that coming from? What’s the thing behind the thing? There’s something deep inside each of us driving everything we do. Wouldn’t it be helpful if you knew what it was? We’re all living our lives in an attempt at getting single, primal question answered with a “yes”. What’s yours? How did it get there? And how can you leverage it to help (not hurt) you and others?
You’ve been around long enough to realize everyone is not the same. Some people can go through almost identical situations but read and react to them in very different ways. We’ve all had moments where we sat back and wondered – “What’s their deal? Why did they freak out about that? But we’re fine with this? Why are they like that?” What if the people around you wonder the same thing? There’s something deep inside each other’s responses, thinking – where is that coming from? What’s the thing behind the thing? There’s something deep inside each of us driving everything we do. Wouldn’t it be helpful if you knew what it was? We’re all living our lives in an attempt at getting single, primal question answered with a “yes”. What’s yours? How did it get there? And how can you leverage it to help (not hurt) you and others?
Trust is a big deal. Nothing works without it. When you have it, there’s nothing like the confidence and security that comes with it. But we’ve all given it, and later regretted it. Someone broke it or abused it. We didn’t see or react to the warning signs soon enough and were wounded in the process. And afterward, we found ourselves so much more skeptical, on guard, or even completely closed off. In some ways, it’s protected us. And in others, it’s isolated us. But we’re not sure where to go from here. Some people just don’t deserve our trust.
Are Christians allowed to say that? And at the same time—being overly suspicious of everyone all the time doesn’t seem to work either. So, how does trust work? How do you build it? How do you know when to give it? When is it wise to withhold it? And is it possible to fix it when it gets broken? The life of Jesus gives us incredible insight into all these questions.
And some of His advice is so unexpected, you’ll want to look it up for yourself just to make sure He actually said it.
Trust is a big deal. Nothing works without it. When you have it, there’s nothing like the confidence and security that comes with it. But we’ve all given it, and later regretted it. Someone broke it or abused it. We didn’t see or react to the warning signs soon enough and were wounded in the process. And afterward, we found ourselves so much more skeptical, on guard, or even completely closed off. In some ways, it’s protected us. And in others, it’s isolated us. But we’re not sure where to go from here. Some people just don’t deserve our trust.
Are Christians allowed to say that? And at the same time—being overly suspicious of everyone all the time doesn’t seem to work either. So, how does trust work? How do you build it? How do you know when to give it? When is it wise to withhold it? And is it possible to fix it when it gets broken? The life of Jesus gives us incredible insight into all these questions.
And some of His advice is so unexpected, you’ll want to look it up for yourself just to make sure He actually said it.
Trust is a big deal. Nothing works without it. When you have it, there’s nothing like the confidence and security that comes with it. But we’ve all given it, and later regretted it. Someone broke it or abused it. We didn’t see or react to the warning signs soon enough and were wounded in the process. And afterward, we found ourselves so much more skeptical, on guard, or even completely closed off. In some ways, it’s protected us. And in others, it’s isolated us. But we’re not sure where to go from here. Some people just don’t deserve our trust.
Are Christians allowed to say that? And at the same time—being overly suspicious of everyone all the time doesn’t seem to work either. So, how does trust work? How do you build it? How do you know when to give it? When is it wise to withhold it? And is it possible to fix it when it gets broken? The life of Jesus gives us incredible insight into all these questions.
And some of His advice is so unexpected, you’ll want to look it up for yourself just to make sure He actually said it.
Trust is a big deal. Nothing works without it. When you have it, there’s nothing like the confidence and security that comes with it. But we’ve all given it, and later regretted it. Someone broke it or abused it. We didn’t see or react to the warning signs soon enough and were wounded in the process. And afterward, we found ourselves so much more skeptical, on guard, or even completely closed off. In some ways, it’s protected us. And in others, it’s isolated us. But we’re not sure where to go from here. Some people just don’t deserve our trust.
Are Christians allowed to say that? And at the same time—being overly suspicious of everyone all the time doesn’t seem to work either. So, how does trust work? How do you build it? How do you know when to give it? When is it wise to withhold it? And is it possible to fix it when it gets broken? The life of Jesus gives us incredible insight into all these questions.
And some of His advice is so unexpected, you’ll want to look it up for yourself just to make sure He actually said it.
Trust is a big deal. Nothing works without it. When you have it, there’s nothing like the confidence and security that comes with it. But we’ve all given it, and later regretted it. Someone broke it or abused it. We didn’t see or react to the warning signs soon enough and were wounded in the process. And afterward, we found ourselves so much more skeptical, on guard, or even completely closed off. In some ways, it’s protected us. And in others, it’s isolated us. But we’re not sure where to go from here. Some people just don’t deserve our trust.
Are Christians allowed to say that? And at the same time—being overly suspicious of everyone all the time doesn’t seem to work either. So, how does trust work? How do you build it? How do you know when to give it? When is it wise to withhold it? And is it possible to fix it when it gets broken? The life of Jesus gives us incredible insight into all these questions.
And some of His advice is so unexpected, you’ll want to look it up for yourself just to make sure He actually said it.
Description: Obviously, we've got lots of questions for God, but as it turns out, He's got questions for us too.
The Bible is full of them. But why? Doesn't God already know everything? You'd think so. But when God comes to earth, in the form of Jesus, He asked way more questions than He answered. Is God just toying with us? Or is there something else going on? What if these questions are more for us than Him? So... why these questions? And what does wrestling with them stand to teach us about God, the universe, and ourselves?
Description: Obviously, we've got lots of questions for God, but as it turns out, He's got questions for us too.
The Bible is full of them. But why? Doesn't God already know everything? You'd think so. But when God comes to earth, in the form of Jesus, He asked way more questions than He answered. Is God just toying with us? Or is there something else going on? What if these questions are more for us than Him? So... why these questions? And what does wrestling with them stand to teach us about God, the universe, and ourselves?
Description: Obviously, we've got lots of questions for God, but as it turns out, He's got questions for us too.
The Bible is full of them. But why? Doesn't God already know everything? You'd think so. But when God comes to earth, in the form of Jesus, He asked way more questions than He answered. Is God just toying with us? Or is there something else going on? What if these questions are more for us than Him? So... why these questions? And what does wrestling with them stand to teach us about God, the universe, and ourselves?
Description: Obviously, we've got lots of questions for God, but as it turns out, He's got questions for us too.
The Bible is full of them. But why? Doesn't God already know everything? You'd think so. But when God comes to earth, in the form of Jesus, He asked way more questions than He answered. Is God just toying with us? Or is there something else going on? What if these questions are more for us than Him? So... why these questions? And what does wrestling with them stand to teach us about God, the universe, and ourselves?
More and more people are deciding church just isn’t for them. Many don’t see the point. Maybe you grew up in it and were so disappointed by what you saw that you couldn’t wait to get out. Walking away from religion isn’t unusual. It’s also not unreasonable. A lot of so-called Christians have hurt a lot of people and done a lot of damage in the name of Christ. Ever found yourself thinking: We’d all be better off without religion? Here’s the crazy part: Jesus agrees with you. What God’s always wanted is meaningful connections with His Creation. But most of us experience religion as rigid, rule-following devoid of relationship. Jesus’ aim was to help humanity unlearn what they thought they knew and embrace lives fueled by transformational love. Jesus firmly believed abandoning certain religious traditions would free us to live the full lives we’re made for.
Wondering which ones and why? Find out this April at South Hills.
More and more people are deciding church just isn’t for them. Many don’t see the point. Maybe you grew up in it and were so disappointed by what you saw that you couldn’t wait to get out. Walking away from religion isn’t unusual. It’s also not unreasonable. A lot of so-called Christians have hurt a lot of people and done a lot of damage in the name of Christ. Ever found yourself thinking: We’d all be better off without religion? Here’s the crazy part: Jesus agrees with you. What God’s always wanted is meaningful connections with His Creation. But most of us experience religion as rigid, rule-following devoid of relationship. Jesus’ aim was to help humanity unlearn what they thought they knew and embrace lives fueled by transformational love. Jesus firmly believed abandoning certain religious traditions would free us to live the full lives we’re made for.
Wondering which ones and why? Find out this April at South Hills.
More and more people are deciding church just isn’t for them. Many don’t see the point. Maybe you grew up in it and were so disappointed by what you saw that you couldn’t wait to get out. Walking away from religion isn’t unusual. It’s also not unreasonable. A lot of so-called Christians have hurt a lot of people and done a lot of damage in the name of Christ. Ever found yourself thinking: We’d all be better off without religion? Here’s the crazy part: Jesus agrees with you. What God’s always wanted is meaningful connections with His Creation. But most of us experience religion as rigid, rule-following devoid of relationship. Jesus’ aim was to help humanity unlearn what they thought they knew and embrace lives fueled by transformational love. Jesus firmly believed abandoning certain religious traditions would free us to live the full lives we’re made for.
Wondering which ones and why? Find out this April at South Hills.
More and more people are deciding church just isn’t for them. Many don’t see the point. Maybe you grew up in it and were so disappointed by what you saw that you couldn’t wait to get out. Walking away from religion isn’t unusual. It’s also not unreasonable. A lot of so-called Christians have hurt a lot of people and done a lot of damage in the name of Christ. Ever found yourself thinking: We’d all be better off without religion? Here’s the crazy part: Jesus agrees with you. What God’s always wanted is meaningful connections with His Creation. But most of us experience religion as rigid, rule-following devoid of relationship. Jesus’ aim was to help humanity unlearn what they thought they knew and embrace lives fueled by transformational love. Jesus firmly believed abandoning certain religious traditions would free us to live the full lives we’re made for.
Wondering which ones and why? Find out this April at South Hills.
In an era with total access to information, a seemingly endless supply of resources and copious amounts of entertainment, we still manage to find ourselves lonelier than ever. It’s not that we aren’t around people, just that we choose to go it alone. But it doesn’t have to be this way, and it’s not the way Jesus intended for us to live. Rather than being a one-man show, we’re invited to be in a band. Rather than an individual sport, we’re invited to be on a team. Rather than a solo commute, we’re invited to join the carpool. Join us this March as we explore the life of connection and meaning that we were designed for.
In an era with total access to information, a seemingly endless supply of resources and copious amounts of entertainment, we still manage to find ourselves lonelier than ever. It’s not that we aren’t around people, just that we choose to go it alone. But it doesn’t have to be this way, and it’s not the way Jesus intended for us to live. Rather than being a one-man show, we’re invited to be in a band. Rather than an individual sport, we’re invited to be on a team. Rather than a solo commute, we’re invited to join the carpool. Join us this March as we explore the life of connection and meaning that we were designed for.
In an era with total access to information, a seemingly endless supply of resources and copious amounts of entertainment, we still manage to find ourselves lonelier than ever. It’s not that we aren’t around people, just that we choose to go it alone. But it doesn’t have to be this way, and it’s not the way Jesus intended for us to live. Rather than being a one-man show, we’re invited to be in a band. Rather than an individual sport, we’re invited to be on a team. Rather than a solo commute, we’re invited to join the carpool. Join us this March as we explore the life of connection and meaning that we were designed for.
In an era with total access to information, a seemingly endless supply of resources and copious amounts of entertainment, we still manage to find ourselves lonelier than ever. It’s not that we aren’t around people, just that we choose to go it alone. But it doesn’t have to be this way, and it’s not the way Jesus intended for us to live. Rather than being a one-man show, we’re invited to be in a band. Rather than an individual sport, we’re invited to be on a team. Rather than a solo commute, we’re invited to join the carpool. Join us this March as we explore the life of connection and meaning that we were designed for.
Everybody thinks about money. We all want to have nice things but hate the idea of being materialistic.
We hate the thought of raising spoiled brats even more. But how do you avoid it? People say money can’t buy happiness, but that doesn’t stop us from trying. Most Americans are up to their eyeballs in debt, live paycheck-to-paycheck, and are overwhelmed with financial stress. Even those who make a lot aren’t often wise with what they’ve got. Why is that? There are certain key conversations everyone ought to have about money growing up. But most of us didn’t. Because most families don’t talk about money. What if someone could clue you in on the conversations you missed (without any condescension)? What if you could start making money decisions based on what you value instead of what’s advertised to you? And what if you could teach your kids to do the same? We think you can. And we’re going to show you how.
Everybody thinks about money. We all want to have nice things but hate the idea of being materialistic.
We hate the thought of raising spoiled brats even more. But how do you avoid it? People say money can’t buy happiness, but that doesn’t stop us from trying. Most Americans are up to their eyeballs in debt, live paycheck-to-paycheck, and are overwhelmed with financial stress. Even those who make a lot aren’t often wise with what they’ve got. Why is that? There are certain key conversations everyone ought to have about money growing up. But most of us didn’t. Because most families don’t talk about money. What if someone could clue you in on the conversations you missed (without any condescension)? What if you could start making money decisions based on what you value instead of what’s advertised to you? And what if you could teach your kids to do the same? We think you can. And we’re going to show you how.
Everybody thinks about money. We all want to have nice things but hate the idea of being materialistic.
We hate the thought of raising spoiled brats even more. But how do you avoid it? People say money can’t buy happiness, but that doesn’t stop us from trying. Most Americans are up to their eyeballs in debt, live paycheck-to-paycheck, and are overwhelmed with financial stress. Even those who make a lot aren’t often wise with what they’ve got. Why is that? There are certain key conversations everyone ought to have about money growing up. But most of us didn’t. Because most families don’t talk about money. What if someone could clue you in on the conversations you missed (without any condescension)? What if you could start making money decisions based on what you value instead of what’s advertised to you? And what if you could teach your kids to do the same? We think you can. And we’re going to show you how.
Everybody thinks about money. We all want to have nice things but hate the idea of being materialistic.
We hate the thought of raising spoiled brats even more. But how do you avoid it? People say money can’t buy happiness, but that doesn’t stop us from trying. Most Americans are up to their eyeballs in debt, live paycheck-to-paycheck, and are overwhelmed with financial stress. Even those who make a lot aren’t often wise with what they’ve got. Why is that? There are certain key conversations everyone ought to have about money growing up. But most of us didn’t. Because most families don’t talk about money. What if someone could clue you in on the conversations you missed (without any condescension)? What if you could start making money decisions based on what you value instead of what’s advertised to you? And what if you could teach your kids to do the same? We think you can. And we’re going to show you how.
A new year represents a clean slate. We think about where we are, where we want to be,and everything we should probably add to our already overcrowded schedule in order to get there. But...what if the life you want isn’t about adding anything, but learning what & how to subtract?
A new year represents a clean slate. We think about where we are, where we want to be,and everything we should probably add to our already overcrowded schedule in order to get there. But...what if the life you want isn’t about adding anything, but learning what & how to subtract?
A new year represents a clean slate. We think about where we are, where we want to be,and everything we should probably add to our already overcrowded schedule in order to get there. But...what if the life you want isn’t about adding anything, but learning what & how to subtract?
Christmastime is here! It a season of joy, generosity, and traditions. But just like in our favorite holiday movies, Christmas is not without its threats. This December we’ll be taking a look at the villains of the original Christmas story, and how they might still be working to keep you from experiencing the wonder of Christmas today.
Christmastime is here! It a season of joy, generosity, and traditions. But just like in our favorite holiday movies, Christmas is not without its threats. This December we’ll be taking a look at the villains of the original Christmas story, and how they might still be working to keep you from experiencing the wonder of Christmas today.
Christmastime is here! It a season of joy, generosity, and traditions. But just like in our favorite holiday movies, Christmas is not without its threats. This December we’ll be taking a look at the villains of the original Christmas story, and how they might still be working to keep you from experiencing the wonder of Christmas today.
Christmastime is here! It a season of joy, generosity, and traditions. But just like in our favorite holiday movies, Christmas is not without its threats. This December we’ll be taking a look at the villains of the original Christmas story, and how they might still be working to keep you from experiencing the wonder of Christmas today.
Any innocent activity can unexpectedly devolve into a full-on addiction. Something we CHOOSE TO DO out of enjoyment mutates into something we HAVE TO DO out of compulsion--your morning coffee, checking your notifications, a sugary afternoon snack, a glass of wine before bed. Now we can't not do it. We're moody and unpleasant when forced to go without it. But lots of people do it. It's not like it's going to ruin your life. And besides, you can quit whenever you want to. Or can you?
Any innocent activity can unexpectedly devolve into a full-on addiction. Something we CHOOSE TO DO out of enjoyment mutates into something we HAVE TO DO out of compulsion--your morning coffee, checking your notifications, a sugary afternoon snack, a glass of wine before bed. Now we can't not do it. We're moody and unpleasant when forced to go without it. We started planning our days around it. We'll ignore friends and family to get access to it. We'll blow off work deadlines to indulge in it. It's a small thing but it's become a big part of our life. Initially, it helped us feel more in control, but now it almost feels like it's in control. Other people have started to notice. A couple have said things, but they're overreacting. It's not that big of a deal. Lots of people do it. It's not like it's going to ruin your life. And besides, you can quit whenever you want to. Or can you?
Any innocent activity can unexpectedly devolve into a full-on addiction. Something we CHOOSE TO DO out of enjoyment mutates into something we HAVE TO DO out of compulsion--your morning coffee, checking your notifications, a sugary afternoon snack, a glass of wine before bed. Now we can't not do it. We're moody and unpleasant when forced to go without it. We started planning our days around it. We'll ignore friends and family to get access to it. We'll blow off work deadlines to indulge in it. It's a small thing but it's become a big part of our life. Initially, it helped us feel more in control, but now it almost feels like it's in control. Other people have started to notice. A couple have said things, but they're overreacting. It's not that big of a deal. Lots of people do it. It's not like it's going to ruin your life. And besides, you can quit whenever you want to. Or can you?
Description: Any innocent activity can unexpectedly devolve into a full-on addiction. Something we CHOOSE TO DO out of enjoyment mutates into something we HAVE TO DO out of compulsion--your morning coffee, checking your notifications, a sugary afternoon snack, a glass of wine before bed. Now we can't not do it. We're moody and unpleasant when forced to go without it. We started planning our days around it. We'll ignore friends and family to get access to it. We'll blow off work deadlines to indulge in it. It's a small thing but it's become a big part of our life. Initially, it helped us feel more in control, but now it almost feels like it's in control. Other people have started to notice. A couple have said things, but they're overreacting. It's not that big of a deal. Lots of people do it. It's not like it's going to ruin your life. And besides, you can quit whenever you want to. Or can you?
We all want to be happy. We design our lives around it. We want to have fun, be carefree, and enjoy our day to day. And obviously, we want the same thing for our family. Few things make us sadder than seeing those we love unhappy. But sometimes they are. Happiness is a hard state to sustain. Expectations go unmet, preferences clash, and feelings get hurt. What then? Do we ignore it, try and fix it, change the subject, force everyone into alignment? If someone in my family is unhappy, what’s my responsibility? Isn’t making each other happy the whole point of family? If not, then what is?
We all want to be happy. We design our lives around it. We want to have fun, be carefree, and enjoy our day to day. And obviously, we want the same thing for our family. Few things make us sadder than seeing those we love unhappy. But sometimes they are. Happiness is a hard state to sustain. Expectations go unmet, preferences clash, and feelings get hurt. What then? Do we ignore it, try and fix it, change the subject, force everyone into alignment? If someone in my family is unhappy, what’s my responsibility? Isn’t making each other happy the whole point of family? If not, then what is?
We all want to be happy. We design our lives around it. We want to have fun, be carefree, and enjoy our day to day. And obviously, we want the same thing for our family. Few things make us sadder than seeing those we love unhappy. But sometimes they are. Happiness is a hard state to sustain. Expectations go unmet, preferences clash, and feelings get hurt. What then? Do we ignore it, try and fix it, change the subject, force everyone into alignment? If someone in my family is unhappy, what’s my responsibility? Isn’t making each other happy the whole point of family? If not, then what is?
We all want to be happy. We design our lives around it. We want to have fun, be carefree, and enjoy our day to day. And obviously, we want the same thing for our family. Few things make us sadder than seeing those we love unhappy. But sometimes they are. Happiness is a hard state to sustain. Expectations go unmet, preferences clash, and feelings get hurt. What then? Do we ignore it, try and fix it, change the subject, force everyone into alignment? If someone in my family is unhappy, what’s my responsibility? Isn’t making each other happy the whole point of family? If not, then what is?
We all want to be happy. We design our lives around it. We want to have fun, be carefree, and enjoy our day to day. And obviously, we want the same thing for our family. Few things make us sadder than seeing those we love unhappy. But sometimes they are. Happiness is a hard state to sustain. Expectations go unmet, preferences clash, and feelings get hurt. What then? Do we ignore it, try and fix it, change the subject, force everyone into alignment? If someone in my family is unhappy, what’s my responsibility? Isn’t making each other happy the whole point of family? If not, then what is?
We all have certain things we care about more than others. Everyone's got their own goals, dreams, interests, and obsessions. But we each tend to value whatever makes us feel valuable. The catch is--most of us have had moments where we finally got our hands on whatever invisible trophy we'd been angling for and realized it just wasn't worth the journey. The GOOD THING we'd been obsessed with became a BAD THING because it stole focus from a BETTER THING. Which is devastating. So, how do you prevent a lesser pursuit from becoming your top priority? What would it look like to organize your life around the pursuit of a more fulfilling set of trophies? What would those even be? What might it look like to truly adopt God's priorities?
We all have certain things we care about more than others. Everyone's got their own goals, dreams, interests, and obsessions. But we each tend to value whatever makes us feel valuable. The catch is--most of us have had moments where we finally got our hands on whatever invisible trophy we'd been angling for and realized it just wasn't worth the journey. The GOOD THING we'd been obsessed with became a BAD THING because it stole focus from a BETTER THING. Which is devastating. So, how do you prevent a lesser pursuit from becoming your top priority? What would it look like to organize your life around the pursuit of a more fulfilling set of trophies? What would those even be? What might it look like to truly adopt God's priorities?
We all have certain things we care about more than others. Everyone's got their own goals, dreams, interests, and obsessions. But we each tend to value whatever makes us feel valuable. The catch is--most of us have had moments where we finally got our hands on whatever invisible trophy we'd been angling for and realized it just wasn't worth the journey. The GOOD THING we'd been obsessed with became a BAD THING because it stole focus from a BETTER THING. Which is devastating. So, how do you prevent a lesser pursuit from becoming your top priority? What would it look like to organize your life around the pursuit of a more fulfilling set of trophies? What would those even be? What might it look like to truly adopt God's priorities? Find out this Sept. at South Hills.
We all have certain things we care about more than others. Everyone's got their own goals, dreams, interests, and obsessions. But we each tend to value whatever makes us feel valuable. The catch is--most of us have had moments where we finally got our hands on whatever invisible trophy we'd been angling for and realized it just wasn't worth the journey. The GOOD THING we'd been obsessed with became a BAD THING because it stole focus from a BETTER THING. Which is devastating. So, how do you prevent a lesser pursuit from becoming your top priority? What would it look like to organize your life around the pursuit of a more fulfilling set of trophies? What would those even be? What might it look like to truly adopt God's priorities? Find out this Sept. at South Hills.
What if we rediscovered the love and unity possible; even in the midst of the most chaotic environments and extreme differences?
What if we rediscovered the love and unity possible; even in the midst of the most chaotic environments and extreme differences?
What if we rediscovered the love and unity possible; even in the midst of the most chaotic environments and extreme differences?
What if we rediscovered the love and unity possible; even in the midst of the most chaotic environments and extreme differences?
If there is a thoughtful Creator who designed the world to work a certain way, most of us would want to know what it is. We’ve all known or seen people do all kinds of things because “God told them to.” But did He? Does God actually speak? If so, what’s He saying? And does He talk to regular people? Because the world is a really noisy place, so how would you even hear Him if He did? These are great questions. Join us during the month of July for honest, thoughtful conversations as we tackle it all together.
If there is a thoughtful Creator who designed the world to work a certain way, most of us would want to know what it is. We’ve all known or seen people do all kinds of things because “God told them to.” But did He? Does God actually speak? If so, what’s He saying? And does He talk to regular people? Because the world is a really noisy place, so how would you even hear Him if He did? These are great questions. Join us during the month of July for honest, thoughtful conversations as we tackle it all together.
We all know stories or have seen documentaries about people who claim to have heard from God. Most of them weren’t just convinced God wanted them to know something, but DO something, and the ‘somethings’ are all over the place—adopt a baby, launch a non-profit, fight an addiction, pass a law, start a commune, or bomb a building. Most of us have our fair share of suspicion. Did God really tell these people to do these things? That can’t be true. But I guess it’s possible he said something to some of them. After all, the bible has stories about people hearing from God. How do you know if something is from God or not?
We all know stories or have seen documentaries about people who claim to have heard from God. Most of them weren’t just convinced God wanted them to know something, but DO something, and the ‘somethings’ are all over the place—adopt a baby, launch a non-profit, fight an addiction, pass a law, start a commune, or bomb a building. Most of us have our fair share of suspicion. Did God really tell these people to do these things? That can’t be true. But I guess it’s possible he said something to some of them. After all, the bible has stories about people hearing from God. How do you know if something is from God or not?
We all know stories or have seen documentaries about people who claim to have heard from God. Most of them weren’t just convinced God wanted them to know something, but DO something, and the ‘somethings’ are all over the place—adopt a baby, launch a non-profit, fight an addiction, pass a law, start a commune, or bomb a building. Most of us have our fair share of suspicion. Did God really tell these people to do these things? That can’t be true. But I guess it’s possible he said something to some of them. After all, the bible has stories about people hearing from God. How do you know if something is from God or not?
Knowing where you came from brings into focus who you really are and how you got that way. Our culture is interested in this, maybe more than ever. When we meet people, we impulsively ask them where they’re from. We love movies that revolve around the origin story of a character. We map our family trees. We ship our spit off to companies to tell us the ancestry of our genetic code. When you open the Bible, the beginning of Scripture is about how we began. It’s our origin story. But maybe not in the way you might think. What does this ancient piece of poetry that opens the story of us and God tell us about the bigger picture of who we are and what we’re made for?
Knowing where you came from brings into focus who you really are and how you got that way. Our culture is interested in this, maybe more than ever. When we meet people, we impulsively ask them where they’re from. We love movies that revolve around the origin story of a character. We map our family trees. We ship our spit off to companies to tell us the ancestry of our genetic code. When you open the Bible, the beginning of Scripture is about how we began. It’s our origin story. But maybe not in the way you might think. What does this ancient piece of poetry that opens the story of us and God tell us about the bigger picture of who we are and what we’re made for?
Knowing where you came from brings into focus who you really are and how you got that way. Our culture is interested in this, maybe more than ever. When we meet people, we impulsively ask them where they’re from. We love movies that revolve around the origin story of a character. We map our family trees. We ship our spit off to companies to tell us the ancestry of our genetic code. When you open the Bible, the beginning of Scripture is about how we began. It’s our origin story. But maybe not in the way you might think. What does this ancient piece of poetry that opens the story of us and God tell us about the bigger picture of who we are and what we’re made for?
Knowing where you came from brings into focus who you really are and how you got that way. Our culture is interested in this, maybe more than ever. When we meet people, we impulsively ask them where they’re from. We love movies that revolve around the origin story of a character. We map our family trees. We ship our spit off to companies to tell us the ancestry of our genetic code. When you open the Bible, the beginning of Scripture is about how we began. It’s our origin story. But maybe not in the way you might think. What does this ancient piece of poetry that opens the story of us and God tell us about the bigger picture of who we are and what we’re made for?
When there’s something we can’t seem to make ourselves do or stick to, we assume it’s because we lack inspiration. We go on the hunt for an uplifting story, an encouraging word, or motivational quote to get us going. But all of us have things we feel inspired to do but never quite get around to. Is it that we don’t want it bad enough, aren’t focused, or don’t quite see its significance? But some of what we’d argue is most important, we still can’t seem to prioritize. So, what’s the problem? Is it that we need more or different inspiration? Is that we need a better, more compelling “why”? Or is there another ingredient we might be missing? What are successful people not telling us? Is there a magic recipe for resilience? If so, what is it?
When there’s something we can’t seem to make ourselves do or stick to, we assume it’s because we lack inspiration. We go on the hunt for an uplifting story, an encouraging word, or motivational quote to get us going. But all of us have things we feel inspired to do but never quite get around to. Is it that we don’t want it bad enough, aren’t focused, or don’t quite see its significance? But some of what we’d argue is most important, we still can’t seem to prioritize. So, what’s the problem? Is it that we need more or different inspiration? Is that we need a better, more compelling “why”? Or is there another ingredient we might be missing? What are successful people not telling us? Is there a magic recipe for resilience? If so, what is it?
When there’s something we can’t seem to make ourselves do or stick to, we assume it’s because we lack inspiration. We go on the hunt for an uplifting story, an encouraging word, or motivational quote to get us going. But all of us have things we feel inspired to do but never quite get around to. Is it that we don’t want it bad enough, aren’t focused, or don’t quite see its significance? But some of what we’d argue is most important, we still can’t seem to prioritize. So, what’s the problem? Is it that we need more or different inspiration? Is that we need a better, more compelling “why”? Or is there another ingredient we might be missing? What are successful people not telling us? Is there a magic recipe for resilience? If so, what is it?
When there’s something we can’t seem to make ourselves do or stick to, we assume it’s because we lack inspiration. We go on the hunt for an uplifting story, an encouraging word, or motivational quote to get us going. But all of us have things we feel inspired to do but never quite get around to. Is it that we don’t want it bad enough, aren’t focused, or don’t quite see its significance? But some of what we’d argue is most important, we still can’t seem to prioritize. So, what’s the problem? Is it that we need more or different inspiration? Is that we need a better, more compelling “why”? Or is there another ingredient we might be missing? What are successful people not telling us? Is there a magic recipe for resilience? If so, what is it?
Christians have a reputation for getting cornered by a logical argument, responding by quoting a cryptic Bible verse, and then celebrating as if they won the fight. Is that what the Bible’s for? Is quoting Scripture some sort of untouchable trump card? Are there certain situations where ancient instructions don’t make sense in our modern context? If so, which ones? Are we even allowed to ask that question? How did Jesus treat Scripture? And as His followers, how should we read it and what are we supposed to do with it?
Christians have a reputation for getting cornered by a logical argument, responding by quoting a cryptic Bible verse, and then celebrating as if they won the fight. Is that what the Bible’s for? Is quoting Scripture some sort of untouchable trump card? Are there certain situations where ancient instructions don’t make sense in our modern context? If so, which ones? Are we even allowed to ask that question? How did Jesus treat Scripture? And as His followers, how should we read it and what are we supposed to do with it?
Christians have a reputation for getting cornered by a logical argument, responding by quoting a cryptic Bible verse, and then celebrating as if they won the fight. Is that what the Bible’s for? Is quoting Scripture some sort of untouchable trump card? Are there certain situations where ancient instructions don’t make sense in our modern context? If so, which ones? Are we even allowed to ask that question? How did Jesus treat Scripture? And as His followers, how should we read it and what are we supposed to do with it?
Bunnies, eggs, chocolate, and …a cross? It seems like we all know the Easter story by now, but what if we’re still missing something? Is it possible for us to be surprised by the events of Holy Week? Is there a chance that misunderstanding something from way back then could be an obstacle for us today? Join us as we rediscover Palm Sunday and Easter at South Hills.
Bunnies, eggs, chocolate, and …a cross? It seems like we all know the Easter story by now, but what if we’re still missing something? Is it possible for us to be surprised by the events of Holy Week? Is there a chance that misunderstanding something from way back then could be an obstacle for us today? Join us as we rediscover Palm Sunday and Easter at South Hills.
A lot of people call themselves Christians. But what does that word mean anymore? Is it just a way to reference a tradition we grew up in or a community we loosely belong to? Is it a set of beliefs that get us into heaven or a set of behaviors we commit to here on earth? Is it possible to be a Christian and live like an Atheist? Does God really need a say in the way we approach everything - from ethics to economics? Maybe we see him having an opinion on morality, but money?
How would Jesus answer these questions? And how might his answers surprise, challenge or inspire us?
A lot of people call themselves Christians. But what does that word mean anymore? Is it just a way to reference a tradition we grew up in or a community we loosely belong to? Is it a set of beliefs that get us into heaven or a set of behaviors we commit to here on earth? Is it possible to be a Christian and live like an Atheist? Does God really need a say in the way we approach everything - from ethics to economics? Maybe we see him having an opinion on morality, but money?
How would Jesus answer these questions? And how might his answers surprise, challenge or inspire us?
A lot of people call themselves Christians. But what does that word mean anymore? Is it just a way to reference a tradition we grew up in or a community we loosely belong to? Is it a set of beliefs that get us into heaven or a set of behaviors we commit to here on earth? Is it possible to be a Christian and live like an Atheist? Does God really need a say in the way we approach everything - from ethics to economics? Maybe we see him having an opinion on morality, but money?
How would Jesus answer these questions? And how might his answers surprise, challenge or inspire us?
A lot of people call themselves Christians. But what does that word mean anymore? Is it just a way to reference a tradition we grew up in or a community we loosely belong to? Is it a set of beliefs that get us into heaven or a set of behaviors we commit to here on earth? Is it possible to be a Christian and live like an Atheist? Does God really need a say in the way we approach everything - from ethics to economics? Maybe we see him having an opinion on morality, but money?
How would Jesus answer these questions? And how might his answers surprise, challenge or inspire us?
There’s an old nursery rhyme that goes, “first comes love, then comes marriage.” You know the rest. Although, I guess technically it starts with two people sitting in a tree, K-I-S-S-I-N-G. Which brings up a lot of questions. Doesn’t fifteen feet up an oak feel like a dangerous place for a makeout? Also, who came up with this sequence of events? But at least there’s some order to it. Who knows how relationships work anymore? With an anonymous hook up a single swipe away, we’ve never had more opportunities for, but less of an understanding of love. Is long-term romance even realistic anymore?
What if there were better places to look for answers than nursery rhymes, reality shows, and app reviews? And what if the wisdom awaiting you had the ability to give you access to what everyone’s after?
There’s an old nursery rhyme that goes, “first comes love, then comes marriage.” You know the rest. Although, I guess technically it starts with two people sitting in a tree, K-I-S-S-I-N-G. Which brings up a lot of questions. Doesn’t fifteen feet up an oak feel like a dangerous place for a makeout? Also, who came up with this sequence of events? But at least there’s some order to it. Who knows how relationships work anymore? With an anonymous hook up a single swipe away, we’ve never had more opportunities for, but less of an understanding of love. Is long-term romance even realistic anymore?
What if there were better places to look for answers than nursery rhymes, reality shows, and app reviews? And what if the wisdom awaiting you had the ability to give you access to what everyone’s after?
There’s an old nursery rhyme that goes, “first comes love, then comes marriage.” You know the rest. Although, I guess technically it starts with two people sitting in a tree, K-I-S-S-I-N-G. Which brings up a lot of questions. Doesn’t fifteen feet up an oak feel like a dangerous place for a makeout? Also, who came up with this sequence of events? But at least there’s some order to it. Who knows how relationships work anymore? With an anonymous hook up a single swipe away, we’ve never had more opportunities for, but less of an understanding of love. Is long-term romance even realistic anymore?
What if there were better places to look for answers than nursery rhymes, reality shows, and app reviews? And what if the wisdom awaiting you had the ability to give you access to what everyone’s after?
“There’s an old nursery rhyme that goes, “first comes love, then comes marriage.” You know the rest. Although, I guess technically it starts with two people sitting in a tree, K-I-S-S-I-N-G. Which brings up a lot of questions. Doesn’t fifteen feet up an oak feel like a dangerous place for a makeout? Also, who came up with this sequence of events? But at least there’s some order to it. Who knows how relationships work anymore? With an anonymous hook up a single swipe away, we’ve never had more opportunities for, but less of an understanding of love. Is long-term romance even realistic anymore?
What if there were better places to look for answers than nursery rhymes, reality shows, and app reviews? And what if the wisdom awaiting you had the ability to give you access to what everyone’s after?
Ever struck by how confident, connected, & comfortable certain people seem, and think to yourself, “That’s not how my life & relationships feel at all. Are they really as close & happy as they appear, or is it all for show? And if they are, why aren’t I?” Is there something wrong with you? And if so, what & why? Are you destined to live a life of disconnection, or can you experience the closeness you crave?
Ever struck by how confident, connected, & comfortable certain people seem, and think to yourself, “That’s not how my life & relationships feel at all. Are they really as close & happy as they appear, or is it all for show? And if they are, why aren’t I?” Is there something wrong with you? And if so, what & why? Are you destined to live a life of disconnection, or can you experience the closeness you crave?
Ever struck by how confident, connected, & comfortable certain people seem, and think to yourself, “That’s not how my life & relationships feel at all. Are they really as close & happy as they appear, or is it all for show? And if they are, why aren’t I?” Is there something wrong with you? And if so, what & why? Are you destined to live a life of disconnection, or can you experience the closeness you crave?
Myrrh was from a plant that had various uses, but primary ones were for healing wounds and embalming the dead. While this may seem like an odd baby gift, it was symbolic of the role Jesus would play as a prophet who would say and do things that would create tension – ultimately leading to his death. Jesus’ actions, teachings, and way of living always stirred up controversy, because he gave voice to the silenced, healing to the sick, valued the outcast, and challenged the comfortable. The gift of myrrh was an ancient way of saying; “buckle up – it’s going to be a bumpy ride.”
Frankincense was burned as incense in a temple, a way to shield the priest from the direct presence of God. When the magi gave this gift, it was symbolic of Jesus becoming our High Priest; no longer a distant human surrounded by ritual and untouchable by the masses, but a baby, born in a manger and surrounded by both family and strangers alike. Through the vulnerability of Christ, we can be fully vulnerable in our relationship with God.
Gold has always been linked to royalty; the ultimate symbol of kings. So when the Magi brought gold to honor Jesus, they were proclaiming him king. King Herod was “disturbed” when he heard about this newborn king of the Jews, and Matthew tells us that all Jerusalem was disturbed also. Herod was paranoid about anyone taking power from him or challenging his throne, but he couldn’t even begin to imagine that Jesus was not only king of the Jews, but ultimately the King of Kings. While we can all agree that Herod was evil in many ways, he was right in understanding that the arrival of this new King would change everything.
We've all seen our fair share of posts where someone brags about how #BLESSED they are. It usually involves a photo of them wearing, doing, driving, eating, or going somewhere enviable and expensive. Is that it? Is being blessed basically getting what you want and having more than you need? Or is it something bigger, better, and broader? Jesus talked a lot about what it means to live a blessed life. He seemed to think it ought to be our primary pursuit. What did he mean by that? Does his definition match ours? What does being blessed look and feel like? How does someone access it? And why do so many people choose not to do it?
We've all seen our fair share of posts where someone brags about how #BLESSED they are. It usually involves a photo of them wearing, doing, driving, eating, or going somewhere enviable and expensive. Is that it? Is being blessed basically getting what you want and having more than you need? Or is it something bigger, better, and broader? Jesus talked a lot about what it means to live a blessed life. He seemed to think it ought to be our primary pursuit. What did he mean by that? Does his definition match ours? What does being blessed look and feel like? How does someone access it? And why do so many people choose not to do it?
We've all seen our fair share of posts where someone brags about how #BLESSED they are. It usually involves a photo of them wearing, doing, driving, eating, or going somewhere enviable and expensive. Is that it? Is being blessed basically getting what you want and having more than you need? Or is it something bigger, better, and broader? Jesus talked a lot about what it means to live a blessed life. He seemed to think it ought to be our primary pursuit. What did he mean by that? Does his definition match ours? What does being blessed look and feel like? How does someone access it? And why do so many people choose not to do it?
We've all seen our fair share of posts where someone brags about how #BLESSED they are. It usually involves a photo of them wearing, doing, driving, eating, or going somewhere enviable and expensive. Is that it? Is being blessed basically getting what you want and having more than you need? Or is it something bigger, better, and broader? Jesus talked a lot about what it means to live a blessed life. He seemed to think it ought to be our primary pursuit. What did he mean by that? Does his definition match ours? What does being blessed look and feel like? How does someone access it? And why do so many people choose not to do it?
We all want happy, healthy relationships - especially with those closest to us. Easier said than done.
As it turns out - making real relationships work is real work. It can feel a bit like putting together a puzzle that's missing pieces and never quite looks like the picture on the box.
Ever wonder if the pieces you're working with even go with the puzzle you're trying to complete? What do great relationships look like? What if you've hardly seen any healthy ones up close? And once you get a glimpse of what you want, what's the best way to start putting that picture together?
These are the questions we're going to tackle this October!
We all want happy, healthy relationships - especially with those closest to us. Easier said than done.
As it turns out - making real relationships work is real work. It can feel a bit like putting together a puzzle that's missing pieces and never quite looks like the picture on the box.
Ever wonder if the pieces you're working with even go with the puzzle you're trying to complete? What do great relationships look like? What if you've hardly seen any healthy ones up close? And once you get a glimpse of what you want, what's the best way to start putting that picture together?
These are the questions we're going to tackle this October!
We all want happy, healthy relationships - especially with those closest to us. Easier said than done.
As it turns out - making real relationships work is real work. It can feel a bit like putting together a puzzle that's missing pieces and never quite looks like the picture on the box.
Ever wonder if the pieces you're working with even go with the puzzle you're trying to complete? What do great relationships look like? What if you've hardly seen any healthy ones up close? And once you get a glimpse of what you want, what's the best way to start putting that picture together?
These are the questions we're going to tackle this October!
We all want happy, healthy relationships - especially with those closest to us. Easier said than done.
As it turns out - making real relationships work is real work. It can feel a bit like putting together a puzzle that's missing pieces and never quite looks like the picture on the box.
Ever wonder if the pieces you're working with even go with the puzzle you're trying to complete? What do great relationships look like? What if you've hardly seen any healthy ones up close? And once you get a glimpse of what you want, what's the best way to start putting that picture together?
These are the questions we're going to tackle this October!
We all want happy, healthy relationships - especially with those closest to us. Easier said than done.
As it turns out - making real relationships work is real work. It can feel a bit like putting together a puzzle that's missing pieces and never quite looks like the picture on the box.
Ever wonder if the pieces you're working with even go with the puzzle you're trying to complete? What do great relationships look like? What if you've hardly seen any healthy ones up close? And once you get a glimpse of what you want, what's the best way to start putting that picture together?
These are the questions we're going to tackle this October!
Most of us have been told Jesus died for us, but few realize how he revolutionized the way we live. His views on dignity, beauty, justice, and service became the backbone of virtually every advanced human society. Which means, even those who don't believe in Him still benefit from Him in ways they may not even credit to Him.
The bulk of his teachings weren't about how to go to heaven, but about how to truly be human. Could better understanding his impact on all of society transform the way you experience him personally? And how did he expect his followers to continue to expand his revolution?
Most of us have been told Jesus died for us, but few realize how he revolutionized the way we live. His views on dignity, beauty, justice, and service became the backbone of virtually every advanced human society. Which means, even those who don't believe in Him still benefit from Him in ways they may not even credit to Him.
The bulk of his teachings weren't about how to go to heaven, but about how to truly be human. Could better understanding his impact on all of society transform the way you experience him personally? And how did he expect his followers to continue to expand his revolution?
Most of us have been told Jesus died for us, but few realize how he revolutionized the way we live. His views on dignity, beauty, justice, and service became the backbone of virtually every advanced human society. Which means, even those who don't believe in Him still benefit from Him in ways they may not even credit to Him.
The bulk of his teachings weren't about how to go to heaven, but about how to truly be human. Could better understanding his impact on all of society transform the way you experience him personally? And how did he expect his followers to continue to expand his revolution?
Most of us have been told Jesus died for us, but few realize how he revolutionized the way we live. His views on dignity, beauty, justice, and service became the backbone of virtually every advanced human society. Which means, even those who don't believe in Him still benefit from Him in ways they may not even credit to Him.
The bulk of his teachings weren't about how to go to heaven, but about how to truly be human. Could better understanding his impact on all of society transform the way you experience him personally? And how did he expect his followers to continue to expand his revolution?
Words are weighty. We all know it, but we don't always act like it. On one hand we've all spent more time than we're proud of carefully crafting the perfect text or Tweet. We've also casually said something that was taken out of context and came back to haunt us. It's hard to be thoughtful and intentional about everything we say. But can we afford not to try? Words shape reality. The words we use determine who we think we are and how we see the world. They have the potential to elevate & educate or depress & destroy.
What we say and the way we say it matters. Maybe it's time to reexamine our wordplay.
Words are weighty. We all know it, but we don't always act like it. On one hand we've all spent more time than we're proud of carefully crafting the perfect text or Tweet. We've also casually said something that was taken out of context and came back to haunt us. It's hard to be thoughtful and intentional about everything we say. But can we afford not to try? Words shape reality. The words we use determine who we think we are and how we see the world. They have the potential to elevate & educate or depress & destroy.
What we say and the way we say it matters. Maybe it's time to reexamine our wordplay.
Words are weighty. We all know it, but we don't always act like it. On one hand we've all spent more time than we're proud of carefully crafting the perfect text or Tweet. We've also casually said something that was taken out of context and came back to haunt us. It's hard to be thoughtful and intentional about everything we say. But can we afford not to try? Words shape reality. The words we use determine who we think we are and how we see the world. They have the potential to elevate & educate or depress & destroy.
What we say and the way we say it matters. Maybe it's time to reexamine our wordplay.
Words are weighty. We all know it, but we don't always act like it. On one hand we've all spent more time than we're proud of carefully crafting the perfect text or Tweet. We've also casually said something that was taken out of context and came back to haunt us. It's hard to be thoughtful and intentional about everything we say. But can we afford not to try? Words shape reality. The words we use determine who we think we are and how we see the world. They have the potential to elevate & educate or depress & destroy.
What we say and the way we say it matters. Maybe it's time to reexamine our wordplay.
The writers of Scripture spoke of the Holy Spirit almost exclusively in metaphor, echoing four word-pictures in particular. Why is that? What can unpacking these metaphors teach us about the practical ways the Holy Spirit can help us make sense of our lives?
The writers of Scripture spoke of the Holy Spirit almost exclusively in metaphor, echoing four word-pictures in particular. Why is that? What can unpacking these metaphors teach us about the practical ways the Holy Spirit can help us make sense of our lives?
The writers of Scripture spoke of the Holy Spirit almost exclusively in metaphor, echoing four word-pictures in particular. Why is that? What can unpacking these metaphors teach us about the practical ways the Holy Spirit can help us make sense of our lives?
We all have moments when we feel lost and alone, not sure what decision to make or path to take. When we do, it spikes our anxiety and shakes our confidence. God’s solution is to give us His Spirit. What does that mean? How do we relate to the invisible? If that sounds mysterious, abstract, and confusing to you, you’re not alone.
The writers of Scripture spoke of the Holy Spirit almost exclusively in metaphor, echoing four word-pictures in particular. Why is that? What can unpacking these metaphors teach us about the practical ways the Holy Spirit can help us make sense of our lives?
We are created in the image of a God who worked and is still working. This means that for us to feel whole, we actually need to work; to be co-creators with God. But our identity was never meant to be found in what we do or how we do it. Both work and rest are meant to flow out of our identity as children of God, not be the source of our identity.
We are created in the image of a God who worked and is still working. This means that for us to feel whole, we actually need to work; to be co-creators with God. But our identity was never meant to be found in what we do or how we do it. Both work and rest are meant to flow out of our identity as children of God, not be the source of our identity.
What if you can't get paid to do something you're passionate about?
We are created in the image of a God who worked and is still working. This means that for us to feel whole, we actually need to work; to be co-creators with God. But our identity was never meant to be found in what we do or how we do it. Both work and rest are meant to flow out of our identity as children of God, not be the source of our identity.
We are created in the image of a God who worked and is still working. This means that for us to feel whole, we actually need to work; to be co-creators with God. But our identity was never meant to be found in what we do or how we do it. Both work and rest are meant to flow out of our identity as children of God, not be the source of our identity.
All of us know someone suffering from severe anxiety or depression (whether we know it or not). But statistically, so few seek help. It’s something we don’t want to admit to others, maybe even ourselves. And technically—what’s “severe” anyway? So, we suffer in quiet isolation, imagining the crippling sadness will somehow disappear as suddenly as it descended. But when it doesn’t, and the days turn into weeks, months, or maybe even years--what do we do then? Are we doomed or are there ways to defeat depression?
All of us know someone suffering from severe anxiety or depression (whether we know it or not). But statistically, so few seek help. It’s something we don’t want to admit to others, maybe even ourselves. And technically—what’s “severe” anyway? So, we suffer in quiet isolation, imagining the crippling sadness will somehow disappear as suddenly as it descended. But when it doesn’t, and the days turn into weeks, months, or maybe even years--what do we do then? Are we doomed or are there ways to defeat depression?
All of us know someone suffering from severe anxiety or depression (whether we know it or not). But statistically, so few seek help. It’s something we don’t want to admit to others, maybe even ourselves. And technically—what’s “severe” anyway? So, we suffer in quiet isolation, imagining the crippling sadness will somehow disappear as suddenly as it descended. But when it doesn’t, and the days turn into weeks, months, or maybe even years--what do we do then? Are we doomed or are there ways to defeat depression?
All of us know someone suffering from severe anxiety or depression (whether we know it or not). But statistically, so few seek help. It’s something we don’t want to admit to others, maybe even ourselves. And technically—what’s “severe” anyway? So, we suffer in quiet isolation, imagining the crippling sadness will somehow disappear as suddenly as it descended. But when it doesn’t, and the days turn into weeks, months, or maybe even years--what do we do then? Are we doomed or are there ways to defeat depression?
All of us know someone suffering from severe anxiety or depression (whether we know it or not). But statistically, so few seek help. It’s something we don’t want to admit to others, maybe even ourselves. And technically—what’s “severe” anyway? So, we suffer in quiet isolation, imagining the crippling sadness will somehow disappear as suddenly as it descended. But when it doesn’t, and the days turn into weeks, months, or maybe even years--what do we do then? Are we doomed or are there ways to defeat depression?
Life is noisy and we often end up repeating things worth forgetting and forgetting things worth repeating. Shortly before His death, Jesus made a series of short statements that came to define His movement.
But, of all the things He said and did, what makes them so worth repeating?
Life is noisy and we often end up repeating things worth forgetting and forgetting things worth repeating. Shortly before His death, Jesus made a series of short statements that came to define His movement.
But, of all the things He said and did, what makes them so worth repeating?
Life is noisy and we often end up repeating things worth forgetting and forgetting things worth repeating. Shortly before His death, Jesus made a series of short statements that came to define His movement.
But, of all the things He said and did, what makes them so worth repeating?
Life is noisy and we often end up repeating things worth forgetting and forgetting things worth repeating. Shortly before His death, Jesus made a series of short statements that came to define His movement.
But, of all the things He said and did, what makes them so worth repeating?
Everybody wants to be happy, but so few of us seem to be. Everywhere we look, we're told we can find the happiness we're chasing fi we could just buy, achieve, or experience bigger, better, and more than what we currently have.
So why isn't it working?
Because most of us have it better than any humans ever have, but we still feel empty and hollow. What are we missing? How does happiness even work? Are there certain things all truly happy do? If so, what are they?
Everybody wants to be happy, but so few of us seem to be. Everywhere we look, we're told we can find the happiness we're chasing fi we could just buy, achieve, or experience bigger, better, and more than what we currently have.
So why isn't it working?
Because most of us have it better than any humans ever have, but we still feel empty and hollow. What are we missing? How does happiness even work? Are there certain things all truly happy do? If so, what are they?
Everybody wants to be happy, but so few of us seem to be. Everywhere we look, we're told we can find the happiness we're chasing fi we could just buy, achieve, or experience bigger, better, and more than what we currently have.
So why isn't it working?
Because most of us have it better than any humans ever have, but we still feel empty and hollow. What are we missing? How does happiness even work? Are there certain things all truly happy do? If so, what are they?
Everybody wants to be happy, but so few of us seem to be. Everywhere we look, we're told we can find the happiness we're chasing fi we could just buy, achieve, or experience bigger, better, and more than what we currently have.
So why isn't it working?
Because most of us have it better than any humans ever have, but we still feel empty and hollow. What are we missing? How does happiness even work? Are there certain things all truly happy do? If so, what are they?
In all the demands and realities of life, it’s easy for us to live as if friends and friendship are secondary; as if they’re a leftover fragment from our youth. The truth is, we all want close friendships, but so few of us actually have them.
How would your life be different if you had more people who defended your honor and reputation? What if you knew their were people who truly knew the real you and had your back no matter what? That’s what God wants for you. That’s what he created you for. It’s what we’re all trying to cultivate. But how? Where do we start?
In all the demands and realities of life, it’s easy for us to live as if friends and friendship are secondary; as if they’re a leftover fragment from our youth. The truth is, we all want close friendships, but so few of us actually have them.
How would your life be different if you had more people who defended your honor and reputation? What if you knew their were people who truly knew the real you and had your back no matter what? That’s what God wants for you. That’s what he created you for. It’s what we’re all trying to cultivate. But how? Where do we start?
In all the demands and realities of life, it’s easy for us to live as if friends and friendship are secondary; as if they’re a leftover fragment from our youth. The truth is, we all want close friendships, but so few of us actually have them.
How would your life be different if you had more people who defended your honor and reputation? What if you knew their were people who truly knew the real you and had your back no matter what? That’s what God wants for you. That’s what he created you for. It’s what we’re all trying to cultivate. But how? Where do we start?
In all the demands and realities of life, it’s easy for us to live as if friends and friendship are secondary; as if they’re a leftover fragment from our youth. The truth is, we all want close friendships, but so few of us actually have them.
How would your life be different if you had more people who defended your honor and reputation? What if you knew their were people who truly knew the real you and had your back no matter what? That’s what God wants for you. That’s what he created you for. It’s what we’re all trying to cultivate. But how? Where do we start?
We live in a world of sampling & scrolling. But everywhere we look, someone's asking us to "like & subscribe" (literally and figuratively). Obviously, we ignore them. We browse anonymously, hold relationships loosely, and confirm plans with a "maybe." We don't want to miss out on anything or be tied down to anyone. We prefer to keep our options open. We admire commitment, we're just not sure the cost is worth it. In our culture, everything's disposable and everyone's replaceable. But we don't seem to find this way of living all that fulfilling. So, what do we do about it?
We live in a world of sampling & scrolling. But everywhere we look, someone's asking us to "like & subscribe" (literally and figuratively). Obviously, we ignore them. We browse anonymously, hold relationships loosely, and confirm plans with a "maybe." We don't want to miss out on anything or be tied down to anyone. We prefer to keep our options open. We admire commitment, we're just not sure the cost is worth it. In our culture, everything's disposable and everyone's replaceable. But we don't seem to find this way of living all that fulfilling. So, what do we do about it?
We live in a world of sampling & scrolling. But everywhere we look, someone's asking us to "like & subscribe" (literally and figuratively). Obviously, we ignore them. We browse anonymously, hold relationships loosely, and confirm plans with a "maybe." We don't want to miss out on anything or be tied down to anyone. We prefer to keep our options open. We admire commitment, we're just not sure the cost is worth it. In our culture, everything's disposable and everyone's replaceable. But we don't seem to find this way of living all that fulfilling. So, what do we do about it?
We live in a world of sampling & scrolling. But everywhere we look, someone's asking us to "like & subscribe" (literally and figuratively). Obviously, we ignore them. We browse anonymously, hold relationships loosely, and confirm plans with a "maybe." We don't want to miss out on anything or be tied down to anyone. We prefer to keep our options open. We admire commitment, we're just not sure the cost is worth it. In our culture, everything's disposable and everyone's replaceable. But we don't seem to find this way of living all that fulfilling. So, what do we do about it?
We live in a world of sampling & scrolling. But everywhere we look, someone's asking us to "like & subscribe" (literally and figuratively). Obviously, we ignore them. We browse anonymously, hold relationships loosely, and confirm plans with a "maybe." We don't want to miss out on anything or be tied down to anyone. We prefer to keep our options open. We admire commitment, we're just not sure the cost is worth it. In our culture, everything's disposable and everyone's replaceable. But we don't seem to find this way of living all that fulfilling. So, what do we do about it?
All of us are on the lookout for a little bit of wisdom; a way to make the most of our relationships, work, life, circumstances and surroundings. What if we allowed Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount to move beyond a something that simply sounds familiar to something that realigns the way we approach everything?
All of us are on the lookout for a little bit of wisdom; a way to make the most of our relationships, work, life, circumstances and surroundings. What if we allowed Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount to move beyond a something that simply sounds familiar to something that realigns the way we approach everything?
All of us are on the lookout for a little bit of wisdom; a way to make the most of our relationships, work, life, circumstances and surroundings. What if we allowed Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount to move beyond a something that simply sounds familiar to something that realigns the way we approach everything?
All of us are on the lookout for a little bit of wisdom; a way to make the most of our relationships, work, life, circumstances and surroundings. What if we allowed Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount to move beyond a something that simply sounds familiar to something that realigns the way we approach everything?
All of us are on the lookout for a little bit of wisdom; a way to make the most of our relationships, work, life, circumstances and surroundings. What if we allowed Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount to move beyond a something that simply sounds familiar to something that realigns the way we approach everything?
All of us are on the lookout for a little bit of wisdom; a way to make the most of our relationships, work, life, circumstances and surroundings. What if we allowed Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount to move beyond a something that simply sounds familiar to something that realigns the way we approach everything?
All of us are on the lookout for a little bit of wisdom; a way to make the most of our relationships, work, life, circumstances and surroundings. What if we allowed Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount to move beyond a something that simply sounds familiar to something that realigns the way we approach everything?
All of us are on the lookout for a little bit of wisdom; a way to make the most of our relationships, work, life, circumstances and surroundings. What if we allowed Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount to move beyond a something that simply sounds familiar to something that realigns the way we approach everything?
Every farmer knows, even a small fox can kill an enormous crop. Most of our lives veer off track in the very same way--something small sabotages us. What if we could catch & corral these little foxes before all the damage is done?
Every farmer knows, even a small fox can kill an enormous crop. Most of our lives veer off track in the very same way--something small sabotages us. What if we could catch & corral these little foxes before all the damage is done?
Every farmer knows, even a small fox can kill an enormous crop. Most of our lives veer off track in the very same way--something small sabotages us. What if we could catch & corral these little foxes before all the damage is done?
Every farmer knows, even a small fox can kill an enormous crop. Most of our lives veer off track in the very same way--something small sabotages us. What if we could catch & corral these little foxes before all the damage is done?
From the time we’re young, we’re taught to speak up, speak out, use our voice, say what we think, share from the heart. And we do. What we don’t do is listen. And no one is listening to us either. But does what anyone has to say matter if no one is listening to anyone but themselves? And how would we even change if we wanted to?
From the time we’re young, we’re taught to speak up, speak out, use our voice, say what we think, share from the heart. And we do. What we don’t do is listen. And no one is listening to us either. But does what anyone has to say matter if no one is listening to anyone but themselves? And how would we even change if we wanted to?
From the time we’re young, we’re taught to speak up, speak out, use our voice, say what we think, share from the heart. And we do. What we don’t do is listen. And no one is listening to us either. But does what anyone has to say matter if no one is listening to anyone but themselves? And how would we even change if we wanted to?
From the time we’re young, we’re taught to speak up, speak out, use our voice, say what we think, share from the heart. And we do. What we don’t do is listen. And no one is listening to us either. But does what anyone has to say matter if no one is listening to anyone but themselves? And how would we even change if we wanted to?
While it may be difficult at times for us to define what grace is, it’s easy to look around and see what it is not. The world is full of pain, upheaval, and tension; overrun by angry opinions and divisive declarations. Jesus steps into the middle of it all and invites us to discover a different way.
While it may be difficult at times for us to define what grace is, it's easy to look around and see what it is not. The world is full of pain, upheaval, and tension; overrun by angry opinions and divisive declarations. Jesus steps into the middle of it all and invites us to discover a different way.
While it may be difficult at times for us to define what grace is, it's easy to look around and see what it is not. The world is full of pain, upheaval, and tension; overrun by angry opinions and divisive declarations. Jesus steps into the middle of it all and invites us to discover a different way.
While it may be difficult at times for us to define what grace is, it's easy to look around and see what it is not. The world is full of pain, upheaval, and tension; overrun by angry opinions and divisive declarations. Jesus steps into the middle of it all and invites us to discover a different way.
While it may be difficult at times for us to define what grace is, it's easy to look around and see what it is not. The world is full of pain, upheaval, and tension; overrun by angry opinions and divisive declarations. Jesus steps into the middle of it all and invites us to discover a different way.
Money. It makes the world go round. We think about, stress, and obsess over it. We’re definitely convinced we’d be better off if we had a whole lot more of it. Jesus said some surprising things about money. What would happen if you practiced what he preached?
Money. It makes the world go round. We think about, stress, and obsess over it. We’re definitely convinced we’d be better off if we had a whole lot more of it. Jesus said some surprising things about money. What would happen if you practiced what he preached?
Money. It makes the world go round. We think about, stress, and obsess over it. We’re definitely convinced we’d be better off if we had a whole lot more of it. Jesus said some surprising things about money. What would happen if you practiced what he preached?
Most relationships start off full of passion and possibility, but end up dying slow, painful deaths. What if you could investigate the death of your relationships before they die? What if you could see where the story is headed and change the ending now?
Most relationships start off full of passion and possibility, but end up dying slow, painful deaths. What if you could investigate the death of your relationships before they die? What if you could see where the story is headed and change the ending now?
Most relationships start off full of passion and possibility, but end up dying slow, painful deaths. What if you could investigate the death of your relationships before they die? What if you could see where the story is headed and change the ending now?
We keep hearing about the “new normal,” but, if we’re honest, most of us just want the old normal back. What if what we knew as normal no longer exists or isn't even worth going back to? Yes, we knew normal, but maybe it's time to know more.
We keep hearing about the “new normal,” but, if we’re honest, most of us just want the old normal back. What if what we knew as normal no longer exists or isn't even worth going back to? Yes, we knew normal, but maybe it's time to know more.
We keep hearing about the “new normal,” but, if we’re honest, most of us just want the old normal back. What if what we knew as normal no longer exists or isn't even worth going back to? Yes, we knew normal, but maybe it's time to know more.
We keep hearing about the “new normal,” but, if we’re honest, most of us just want the old normal back. What if what we knew as normal no longer exists or isn't even worth going back to? Yes, we knew normal, but maybe it's time to know more.
We keep hearing about the “new normal,” but, if we’re honest, most of us just want the old normal back. What if what we knew as normal no longer exists or isn't even worth going back to? Yes, we knew normal, but maybe it's time to know more.
Christmas is supposed to be the most wonderful time of the year, but we can often find ourselves completely disconnected from the beauty and wonder of the season. This year, we invite you to turn down the volume on the chaos of life & prepare your heart & mind for God to re-engage your story in surprising new ways with a fresh sense of Hope, Peace, Joy & Love
Christmas is supposed to be the most wonderful time of the year, but we can often find ourselves completely disconnected from the beauty and wonder of the season. This year, we invite you to turn down the volume on the chaos of life & prepare your heart & mind for God to re-engage your story in surprising new ways with a fresh sense of Hope, Peace, Joy & Love
Christmas is supposed to be the most wonderful time of the year, but we can often find ourselves completely disconnected from the beauty and wonder of the season. This year, we invite you to turn down the volume on the chaos of life & prepare your heart & mind for God to re-engage your story in surprising new ways with a fresh sense of Hope, Peace, Joy & Love
Christmas is supposed to be the most wonderful time of the year, but we can often find ourselves completely disconnected from the beauty and wonder of the season. This year, we invite you to turn down the volume on the chaos of life & prepare your heart & mind for God to re-engage your story in surprising new ways with a fresh sense of Hope, Peace, Joy & Love
How do we learn to live with gratitude in a gripe-filled world? And does it even matter?
How do we learn to live with gratitude in a gripe-filled world? And does it even matter?
Politics seem to be driving all of us a little crazy. How do we make it through this election season with our soul intact?
Politics seem to be driving all of us a little crazy. How do we make it through this election season with our soul intact?
Welcome to South Hills Idaho Opening Day celebration. We all want happy, healthy relationships. And we have our moments…But for the most part, a lot of us feel like we have no idea what we’re doing. Some of us didn’t grow up with great examples. Many of us inherited unhelpful instincts. But, what if you could give those around you something better than you got?