Are Friendship and Marriage Essentially the Same? (Part 2)

There are so many things God designed a man and woman to experience and enjoy in marriage, but this post just focuses on three of them. I do want to note that the unique characteristics of marriage included below are based on God’s intent for marriage. I realize some marriages are very challenging, dysfunctional, and/or brief. However, imperfect marriages exist because of the Fall, not because of a flaw in God’s design. With that in mind, let’s examine three major distinctions between marriage and friendship.

Are Friendship and Marriage Essentially the Same? (Part 1)

Several weeks ago, I listened to a podcast episode during which a pastor discussed a sermon he’d preached about true love. Ultimately, it seemed like he viewed marriage and friendship as equivalent. He treated them as substitutes—as if there are no major differences between them. But I was frustrated with his message because there are major differences between friendship and marriage, and honestly, that frustration fueled this post.

Why I Don’t Like “The Truth” by Megan Woods

You might not be familiar with Megan Woods because she’s new to the Christian music industry, but her song “The Truth” has been playing on Christian radio stations recently. I don’t know much about her, but I know her song “The Truth” has some issues. Though most of the lyrics don’t bother me, the chorus makes me cringe—and honestly, it should make all Christians cringe.

To the Girl Who Sees Red Flags in Her Romantic Relationship

Though you’ve tried to avert your gaze from the red flags, you can’t help but see them whenever you’re with your boyfriend. At first, you thought he would recognize his flaws and work on them. But nothing has changed in the past three months. The red flags you saw on your first date are the same red flags you see now. And you’re worried they’ll be part of his life forever.

Why I Don’t Like White Bird: A Wonder Story

White Bird: A Wonder Story is a movie I probably won’t see again, and there are a couple reasons for that. First, it felt super disconnected from Wonder—the movie it’s supposedly a sequel to. Plus, Wonder came out seven years ago and didn’t really need a sequel. But the second reason—the main reason—I didn’t like White Bird was its misleading message.

Why I Don’t Like Once Upon a Time

Once Upon a Time is a TV show that was popular several years ago but faded into obscurity. Even though people don’t talk about it much anymore, I decided to try to it—and I was hooked on it for a week or two. I watched episode after episode, making solid progress in the first season. I really wanted to like it, but I couldn’t get past the immorality.

1 Thing to Remember When a Friendship Ends

I was 13 years old when my friend Alexis* moved away. Losing her was really hard because I’d grown up with her. We’d attended the same church and the same homeschool groups, and we’d even played soccer on the same team. But Alexis isn’t the only friend I’ve lost in my life. Many of my friends have been “friends for a season.” Even though it’s not fun when a friendship ends, it’s not unusual.

Is It Wrong to Chase Your Dreams?

If you’ve ever seen the movie Tangled, you can probably recall the amusing song “I’ve Got a Dream” that Rapunzel and several other characters sing about their personal aspirations. The song’s message is simple: Everyone has a dream, and every dream is special no matter how unconventional or unrealistic it is. It’s not unusual to hear or read similar messages from Christians. But even though many Christians emphasize the importance of having (and chasing) their dreams, God’s Word doesn’t.

A Message for My Brothers in Christ

In recent years, I’ve noticed an unsettling trend among guys who claim to love the Lord. No, I’m not referring to the rise in porn addictions, though that sin is definitely becoming more prevalent. Before I tell you what trend I’m referring to, I want you to know that this post is meant to build you up, not tear you down. As your sister in Christ, I want to help you live out your calling—and this is a major part of it.