Make Time Your Friend — Not Your Crisis
Rushing kills readiness. Great mission trips are built in layers, not in sprints. Start early — like, 10 to 12 months early — and stagger your planning tasks from 10–12 months out so nothing gets buried. Block time for team meetings, leader check-ins, and spiritual prep. Give breathing room for passports, vaccinations, fundraising. It’s not just about being “prepared.” It’s about respecting the weight of what you’re undertaking.

Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.—Matthew 28:19–20

Forge the Team Before You Fly
The plane ride should be a celebration — not the first time everyone speaks. If you want a group that prays, adapts, and laughs through the hard stuff, you’ve got to build those bonds early. Host weekly gatherings, break bread, pray with specificity. Don’t skip the awkward stuff — games, roleplay, honest check-ins. You’re not just assigning jobs — you’re creating a body. Try incorporating team-building activities to foster unity before you ever zip a duffel bag.

When the Pressure Hits, Lead with Peace
Every trip has a moment — lost bags, missed buses, clashing personalities. That’s when leaders show up — not with panic, but presence. You’re not just there to solve problems. You’re there to model what navigating stressful leadership moments looks like when Jesus is in the room. Wisdom doesn’t always shout. Sometimes, it’s a deep breath, a quick prayer, and a steady “let’s walk this through together.”

Don’t Just Show Up — Show Respect
The fastest way to damage trust? Treating culture like a backdrop instead of a world. Learn the language basics. Ask about food customs. Read up on the town’s history. You don’t need to be an expert — but you do need to care enough to try. Before you go, study how to build meaningful relationships through respect. It opens doors no sermon ever could.

Scripture Isn’t an Add-On — It’s the Anchor
This isn’t a school trip. It’s a spiritual act. You need the Word woven into the bones of the mission. Let the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19–20) set your compass. Let Isaiah 6:8 whisper “Send me” every time you hesitate. Keep a few Bible verses to guide your mission focus visible and alive — in team huddles, morning devotionals, and even on the journey home.

Bring It Back. Then Break It Down.
The trip ends. The mission doesn’t. Don’t let your team scatter without reflecting on what just happened. Host a debrief. Share meals. Cry. Laugh. Testify. And for heaven’s sake — bring it back to the congregation. Don’t just drop a slideshow on the screen. Instead, debrief and share experiences with your church in a way that extends the ripple effect — turning one mission trip into seeds for the next.

Your mission trip is a call and a commitment. Not just to go — but to go well. With clarity. With humility. With power made perfect in weakness. Take the time to build it right. Then go — and be the kind of light that doesn’t need a stage to shine.

Connect with fellow believers and find inspiration to fulfill your calling at ChristiansNetworking.com, where unity and encouragement light the path to a brighter world.

1. Redefine Love from a Biblical Perspective
One of the most important lessons we can teach students is that love is not merely a feeling but a choice and a reflection of God’s character. The Bible offers a rich and countercultural view of love as sacrificial, enduring, and grounded in truth.

Scriptures like 1 John 4:8 (“God is love”) and Romans 5:8 (“While we were still sinners, Christ died for us”) help students see that genuine love involves selflessness and commitment. By helping teenagers view love through the lens of the gospel, we can reshape their expectations for relationships and guide them toward healthy, Christ-centered connections.

2. Challenge Cultural Myths About Love
The world often promotes myths like “If it feels right, it must be love” or “A relationship will complete me.” These ideas set students up for disappointment and spiritual drift. Youth pastors can counter these myths by using Scripture to reveal the truth—namely, that only Jesus can fulfill our deepest needs and that love guided by God’s wisdom leads to genuine joy and security.

Engaging students in discussions about the messages they receive from media and peers can be a powerful tool. Whether analyzing a popular song or discussing a trending relationship story, these conversations can provide valuable opportunities to highlight biblical truth.

3. Expand the Definition of Love Beyond Romance
When teaching about love, it’s important to emphasize that love isn’t limited to romantic relationships. The Bible calls us to love our families, friends, and even our enemies (Luke 6:35). By broadening students' understanding of love, we help them apply biblical principles to all their relationships—not just those involving romance.

4. Address Dating with a Focus on Identity
While teenagers are eager to talk about dating, the foundation of this conversation should always be their identity in Christ. When students understand their worth in Jesus, they are less likely to seek validation in a relationship. Encourage them to ask themselves questions like: “Why do I want to date?” and “Am I looking for someone else to fill a void only God can fill?”

5. Offer a Vision for Long-Lasting Love
Help students think beyond immediate gratification by casting a vision for lifelong, Christ-honoring love. Encourage them to consider how their current choices impact their future relationships and how living according to God’s design can lead to a more fulfilling and meaningful love story.

Conclusion: Love Is More Than a Relationship Status
Ultimately, teaching students about love is about pointing them to Jesus—the One who loved them first and best. As youth pastors, our goal is not just to guide them through their teenage crushes or first breakups but to help them see love as a reflection of the gospel. When we do this, we equip students to pursue relationships that honor God and transform lives.

About Mike Haynes
Mike Haynes is a youth ministry veteran and the creator of G Shades Youth Ministry Curriculum. A vibrant contributor to the youth ministry landscape, Mike’s passion is to help students and youth pastors alike see life through the lens of the gospel. He and his wife Anna have five kids spanning elementary, middle, and high school.
Socials: @mikeehaynes on Instagram

Image: G Shades | Gospel Centered Youth Ministry Curriculum

by Regular Contributor Leah Halpert

Why do humans suffer? This question is one of the oldest in psychology, philosophy, and religion since the beginning of our existence.

📌 Why Am I Here to Explore the Depths of Suffering?
I began to experience suffering when my husband unexpectedly passed away last year due to mental anxiety. His sudden death left me engulfed in overwhelming pain that shook my very being. His passing awakened something within me, prompting me to confront a new reality I had never faced before. It pushed me into a space where survival and living took on entirely new meanings, forever changing my understanding of suffering.

Since then, God has opened my eyes, and I have started to hear stories of loss and pain from nearly everyone I encounter, including strangers on social media. I have come to realize that suffering is inevitable and a universal aspect of human existence that distinctly and deeply affects us all.
As I face this critical challenge in life, I would like to share my insights in the hopes of resonating with you.
​
📌 What Is Suffering and Have You Felt Its Impact?
Suffering arises from various sources, such as illness, loss, trauma, personal struggles, and challenging life situations. It is often linked to feelings of sorrow, anxiety, or despair, with its intensity and duration varying among individuals. This complex experience encompasses physical, emotional, or mental pain, distress, and hardship.
Have you experienced its effect on your life?

👉 Despite Harsh Political and Economic Struggles, I Did Not Feel Suffering Growing Up.
Growing up in a communist country marked by famine, poverty, and political turmoil, I never felt I had enough to eat as a little girl. I was always hungry and often felt dirty. However, this harsh environment forged resilience and determination within me, shaping who I am today. It did not break me but rather strengthened my will to survive and thrive.
External factors and circumstances beyond an individual's control, such as poverty, inequality, war, and natural disasters, can profoundly affect suffering and the experience of it. Children may suffer less than adults due to their innocent hearts, which help them better navigate hardships.

👉 The Biological and Psychological Roots of Suffering

✅ Biologically, genetic variations and defects influence brain chemistry and emotional regulation, making individuals more susceptible to mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, and other mood disorders. Suffering is also closely linked to our survival instincts. For example, pain is a biological mechanism that alerts us to injury or danger.

✅ Psychologically, suffering often arises from unresolved emotional trauma, mental health conditions such as depression or anxiety, and challenges in coping with stress or loss. Our perception and interpretation of events significantly influence our experience of suffering.

👉 The Biblical Perspectives of Suffering

📍The Fall of Man (Sin and Disobedience): The fall of Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden introduced sin and suffering into the world. Human suffering is often attributed to the consequences of disobedience to God. (Genesis 3:16-19)
📍The Testing of Faith: Suffering can serve as a test of faith, with trials fostering perseverance and spiritual growth. (James 1:2-4)
📍Persecution for Righteousness: Believers may experience suffering when they are persecuted for living in accordance with God’s principles and advocating for righteousness. (Matthew 5:10-12)
📍 Divine Discipline and Correction: Suffering can serve as a form of divine discipline designed to correct and guide believers towards holiness and spiritual growth. (Hebrews 12:6)
📍The Consequences of Sin (Personal and Corporate): Sin, whether personal or communal, can lead to suffering as a natural result of disobeying God's laws. (Galatians 6:7-8)
📍Spiritual Warfare: Suffering can also stem from spiritual battles, where believers confront assaults from malevolent forces in the spiritual realm. (Ephesians 6:12)
📍Human Frailty and Mortal Life: Suffering is inherent to the human condition as part of life in a fallen world. It relates to human frailty, injustice, and the imperfection of earthly existence. (Ecclesiastes 3:16-17)
📍God’s Sovereignty and Hidden Purposes: Sometimes, suffering happens as part of God's greater plan, which may not always be immediately clear but ultimately benefits the believer. (Romans 8:28)
📍The Influence of the Enemy (Satan): The Bible acknowledges that Satan aims to bring suffering, destruction, and temptation into the lives of believers, who must resist him through faith. (1 Peter 5:8-9)
📍The Mystery of God’s Plan (Unexplained Suffering): Job's suffering illustrates that some pain can seem unexplained or mysterious; however, believers are encouraged to trust in God's sovereignty even in the face of inexplicable hardships. (Job 1:21)

Ultimately, while there is no single answer to why humans suffer, it is a complex and multifaceted issue that encompasses our biology, psychology, emotions, relationships, beliefs, and the very essence of existence.
​
❤️ The Bible offers a comprehensive understanding of the various causes of suffering from a spiritual perspective, including sin and its consequences, spiritual testing, persecution, and God's refining process.

About Leah Halpert
​Leah Halpert, Ph.D., is a university professor and a distinguished biomedical scientist. After the tragic death of her most cherished husband, she transformed her unbearable grief into a higher calling led by the Holy Spirit, channeling her deepest sorrow into strength and purpose by sharing a life shaped by resilience, revelation, and hard-earned wisdom.

Dr. Halpert’s social media links on LinkedIn and Substack: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leah-h-4407972a9/
https://leah19441.substack.com

For example, when a youth group consists of only three or four students, a curriculum with an icebreaker game designed for 30 can feel out of touch. The same goes for curriculums that assume access to high-end technology or a large team of adult leaders to facilitate small groups. Small churches need curriculum options that respect their scale while still providing rich, gospel-centered content.

2. Balancing Multi-Age Group Dynamics
One of the greatest strengths of small churches is their ability to foster intimate, personalized discipleship. With fewer students, youth pastors and volunteers can develop deeper relationships with each individual, tailoring ministry to their specific needs. A curriculum designed for small churches should empower this strength by offering flexible lesson plans that adapt to small group sizes or even one-on-one settings.

G Shades' "Small G" plan, for instance, offers a curriculum that is uniquely suited to environments where only a few students attend. The "Where Two or More Are Gathered" adapted lesson plan is not only practical but also deeply biblical, showing that ministry impact is not limited by numbers.

3. Supporting Volunteer Leaders
Another common struggle for small churches is budget. Many curriculums come with a hefty price tag that is difficult for smaller congregations to justify, especially when youth ministry is only a part of a broader pastoral role. The financial pressure can lead churches to either stick with outdated resources or attempt to create their own content from scratch, both of which can lead to burnout and diminished ministry quality.

This is where offering affordable or scaled pricing models, like G Shades' "Small G" plan, can make a significant difference. By reducing financial strain, small churches can access high-quality, gospel-centered resources without sacrificing other critical areas of ministry.

4. Fostering Genuine Relationships Over Production Value
A gospel-centered curriculum for small churches must also offer adaptability. Each week might look different in a small church setting. Some weeks, the group might be larger if friends are invited; other weeks, only one or two students might show up. Curriculum that provides resources for a variety of scenarios—like conversation-based lessons that work whether the room is full or nearly empty—gives small church leaders the flexibility they need.

5. Budget-Conscious and Accessible
Another critical aspect of supporting small churches is addressing the often-unspoken challenge of comparison. Small church leaders may struggle with feelings of inadequacy when comparing their ministry to larger churches with seemingly endless resources and thriving programs. A curriculum that celebrates the unique opportunities within small settings, rather than merely downsizing large-church strategies, can boost confidence and clarity for small church youth leaders.

Small churches play a vital role in the kingdom of God. They offer close-knit community, deep discipleship, and authentic relationships that can significantly shape a young person's faith journey. However, they need tools that match their context. A gospel-centered, adaptable, and affordable curriculum specifically designed for small churches is not just a nice-to-have—it's a must. By choosing a curriculum that meets them where they are, small churches can thrive, providing students with transformative, Christ-centered experiences, regardless of the size of their youth group.

About Mike Haynes

Mike Haynes is a youth ministry veteran and the creator of G Shades Youth Ministry Curriculum. A vibrant contributor to the youth ministry landscape, Mike’s passion is to help students and youth pastors alike see life through the lens of the gospel. He and his wife Anna have five kids spanning elementary, middle, and high school.
​
Socials: @mikeehaynes on Instagram

We’ve all had (or I hope that we have all had) similar occurrences.  Something good, in this case a new client, suddenly and without warning appears in our life. It looks like it just appeared with no cause-effect from anything we did.
        
As a veteran sales consultant, I’ve worked with over 500 sales organizations for over 30 years. I’ve learned some things.  One is this — nothing drops out of thin air.  Research every one of these, and you’ll discover that they invariably come from two sources.

The first is you!

Every client, every customer, every “big deal” that suddenly appeared was the result of seeds you planted months or years ago. It works something like this:  The client who called, seemingly out of the blue, was responding to a thought he had and a problem he realized.  He/she remembered you because of a sales call when he was with another company five years ago. A contact you made, months or years ago, stimulated this engagement. Your efforts paid off in this phone call, on the customer’s schedule not yours.

Or someone calls to do business with you.  You don’t know him, but he knows a former client from years ago.  The two talked, and you were recommended.  What seemed like it came out of the blue was really a result of good work you did years ago and the word-of-mouth recommendation that generated.

These scenarios are so common that it is my expected explanation for why these good things seemingly appear out of nowhere.  

There is a moral to this story.  Have faith that your efforts will pay off. They don’t always come to fruition in the time that you want.  And you can’t predict which of your efforts will bring results down the road, or who will respond positively.   But you can be sure that you are sowing seeks of new business, and that somewhere down the road, they will pay off in ways that you don’t expect. 

So, one source of business that drops on us unexpectedly is the seed you planted sometime in the past.

The other is God.

Allow me to illustrate a personal story.  I’ve been a home winemaker for decades.  A few years ago, one of my sons bought a home in Virginia, in the heart of wine country.  He had some extra land, and we decided to plant a small vineyard.  While it was tiny by commercial vineyard standards, it was huge for us – yielding far more grapes than what I had ever processed. Clearly, we needed some serious equipment to deal with it.

Then, out of the blue, my son found a person who had a commercial-sized crusher/de-stemmer and a 50-liter bladder press available for about 10 percent of their value — essential equipment for the size of our harvest.  It was a coup to acquire such perfect equipment at fire-sale prices, at just the time we needed it. We congratulated one another on our good fortune.

I was telling this story to an acquaintance, and he smiled and said, “We have a name for that.  You’ve been given a kiss from God.“

It wasn’t luck, it wasn’t coincidence, it wasn’t the result of anything I had done.  It was a “kiss from God.”
Our father loves us and has promised to give us good gifts.  This was one.

If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!  Matthew 7:11 (NIV)
 
Sometimes, when something good suddenly appears in your life, attribute it to a kiss from God. 
​
Related Resources

https://davekahle.pink-account.com/business-model-leadership-character/
www.davekahle.com/q-a-for-salespeople-dropping-the-ball-with-a-customer
www.davekahle.com/you-or-him-gods-plan-business​

​​About Dave Kahle:
​
Dave Kahle has been a Bible teacher, elder, house church leader, short-term missionary and Christian executive roundtable leader.  For 30 years, he has been an authority on sales and sales systems, having spoken in 47 states and eleven countries.  He has authored 13 books, including The Good Book on Business.  His books have been translated into eight-plus languages and are available in over 20 countries. He holds a B. of ED from the University of Toledo, and MA in Teaching from Bowling Green University.

He and Coleen split their time between Grand Rapids, Michigan and Sarasota, Florida.  He is a father, foster father, adoptive father and grandfather to 14 children.

My emotions became like a tornado, whirling and uncontrollable. My heart was like a churning sea, filled with endless waves of sorrow and confusion. The agony was beyond description, pressing down on my very existence. The pain raged on, unrelenting and unbearable.
Even the most encouraging Bible scriptures suddenly lost meaning, and faith-filled prayers seemed to lose their power. The God I had trusted felt so distant, as though He had vanished without a trace.
No one can truly feel your pain unless they walk in your exact shoes.

3.Facing the Darkness Alone
Grief rewires the brain in ways that are hard to understand. It clouds your mind, making even simple tasks feel overwhelming. Thoughts blur, focus slips away, and everything feels out of sync. You struggle to process emotions, time, and identity in a world that no longer feels familiar.
At that moment, no one could fix it or make it stop.

I, alone, had to navigate the darkness, enduring sleepless nights with tears soaking my pillows, stretching on endlessly.

4.Memories Became a Double-Edged Sword
Well-meaning friends would say, 'Focus on the good memories.' But the opposite was true.
Every memory from the months before my husband’s death—every word he said, every conversation we had, every behavior he displayed—only triggered guilt, self-blame, and waves of tears. I couldn’t escape the haunting thought that I missed signs, that I should have known, that maybe if I had acted differently, things could have been different. Those memories pushed me deeper into the anguish of 'what ifs' and 'could haves.' Each recollection brought only tears, a painful reminder of everything I couldn’t change. Tears became my most trusted and unwavering companion, following me faithfully, day and night, wherever I wandered.

Even the sweet moments we once shared became a cruel reminder of a happiness I could never return to. The things that once brought comfort now tore open the wounds of my heart, making me question everything—could I have done more, said more, been more? The memories I once cherished became a double-edged sword, cutting deeper with every recollection.

5.Grief is Learning to Exist in the Space Left by Absence
Others, though trying to help, would suggest, ‘Get over it and move on with life.’

Grief isn’t about letting go or replacing the pain with positive thoughts.

Dealing with grief doesn’t mean moving on or forgetting. It means learning to live with the absence, finding a way to navigate the pain, and slowly integrating the loss into one's life so that one can continue.
Grief is not something we can "get over"—it's something we learn to carry. The intensity of the pain may soften over time, but the loss remains a part of us.

6.Grief is a Deeply Personal, Unique Journey
Grief is a complex, deeply personal experience. It’s not just about mourning the loss of someone or something; it’s about the emotional and physical toll that loss takes on us.

Everyone’s journey with grief is unique, and healing doesn't happen linearly. Some days may feel better than others, but the path forward is often winding and unpredictable.

Some joined bereavement groups to share their sorrow and find solace in the collective pain. But I could not. Hearing others' stories of painful loss only deepened the ache of my own, amplifying the hopelessness and helplessness that come with human suffering.

Some sought refuge by returning to the same church, drawing comfort from the familiar. But for me, it was different. I couldn’t bear to face the same surroundings. Every worship song only reminded me that my husband was no longer by my side—the one who always remarked how beautifully I sang, like an angel. Good, intentional, but superficial greetings felt hollow, offering no comfort but flooding me with tears.

When every part of you aches, no matter how much others try to console you, nothing can fill the emptiness or quiet the storm inside. When we love with our souls, we grieve with our souls, for the loss cuts deeper than the heart alone can bear.

7. Strangers Became My Unexpected Sources of Comfort
When the heartbreaking news spread, close friends, colleagues, and relatives gathered to attend my husband’s funeral and memorial services. They offered their final tributes, honoring his profound impact on their lives and careers.

The whirlwind of services brought a brief sense of gratitude for the outpouring of support. But all too quickly, except for a very few, everyone retreated into their busy lives as though nothing had changed. There were no texts, no calls, no follow-ups. Only I, alone, quietly endured the unbearable pain.
However, in the depths of my pain, I discovered an unexpected connection through LinkedIn with strangers from all walks of life—fellow souls who, too, carry their own suffering or have weathered their own storms. These strangers offered genuine encouragement, comfort, and an unspoken bond. In our grief, we are never truly alone.

7. True Healing Begins: Finding a New Purpose in Life
Is true healing possible? We face this question amid loss, and the answer isn’t simple. In some ways, yes, but in others, no.

Grief changes us in ways we can't always put into words. It leaves an indelible imprint on our hearts and minds, reshaping our inner perspectives and how we view the world around us.
When I transcended my struggles, God's divine purpose began to reveal itself. Losing my husband inspired me to find meaning in my trials, pick up my pen, and transform my experiences into a source of wisdom and compassion.
​
Through our suffering, we are shaped by gaining insights that foster our growth and empower us to support and uplift others facing similar challenges. By embracing this broader perspective, we allow our pain to become a conduit for compassion and healing, fulfilling a higher calling and purpose and making a meaningful impact on our lives and those who need help. 

About Leah Halpert
Leah Halpert, Ph.D., is a university professor and a distinguished biomedical scientist. After the tragic death of her most cherished husband, she transformed her unbearable grief into a higher calling led by the Holy Spirit, channeling her deepest sorrow into strength and purpose by sharing a life shaped by resilience, revelation, and hard-earned wisdom.

Dr. Halpert’s social media links on LinkedIn and Substack: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leah-h-4407972a9/
https://leah19441.substack.com

1. Create a Safe Space for Authentic Conversations
Students need to feel safe to share openly. If they fear judgment—whether from their peers or leaders—they’ll hold back.

To create this safe space, encourage leaders to model vulnerability and share personal experiences (appropriately). Allow students to express doubts and wrestle with tough questions without immediate correction. When students trust that they can be real without judgment, they engage more deeply.

2. Ask Thought-Provoking, Open-Ended Questions
Avoid “yes” or “no” questions that lead to shallow conversations. Instead, ask open-ended questions that invite deeper thought and reflection.

Examples include:
• “What do you think Jesus meant when He said…?”
• “How would you handle this situation in your own life?”
• “When have you struggled with this in your faith journey?”

The goal is to shift from leader-driven lectures to student-led discussions, allowing them to explore their thoughts in a guided but open way.

3. Embrace the Power of Silence
Silence can feel uncomfortable, but it often means students are thinking deeply. Instead of filling the silence, give students time to respond. You might be surprised by the insights they share when they don’t feel rushed.
If a question isn’t landing, try rephrasing it or gently inviting quieter students to share. Providing time and space shows students that their voices are valued.

4. Incorporate Variety in Your Small Group Activities
Small groups shouldn’t just be about talking. Different students learn and engage in different ways. Mix up your approach with storytelling, object lessons, movement-based activities, or role-playing scenarios.

These varied methods can help keep sessions fresh and cater to different learning styles, leading to deeper engagement.

5. Build Community Beyond the Meeting
The strength of a small group often shows up outside of scheduled meeting times. Encourage connections through group chats, casual hangouts, or serving opportunities. When students see their small group as a genuine community rather than just another church event, they are more likely to engage consistently.

Final Thoughts
A thriving small group is not just about attendance—it’s about growth. By creating a safe space, asking thoughtful questions, leveraging silence, mixing up your methods, and building community, you can cultivate an environment where students feel known, challenged, and encouraged in their faith.

At G Shades, we are passionate about providing youth ministry resources that make small groups more effective. If you’re looking for curriculum designed to foster genuine engagement and spiritual growth, visit our site to learn more!

About Mike Haynes
Mike Haynes is a youth ministry veteran and the creator of G Shades Youth Ministry Curriculum. A vibrant contributor to the youth ministry landscape, Mike’s passion is to help students and youth pastors alike see life through the lens of the gospel. He and his wife Anna have five kids spanning elementary, middle, and high school.
Socials: @mikeehaynes on Instagram

by Guest Blogger Elizabeth Thambiraj
​
Trust meaning in English: to believe that someone is good and honest and will not harm you, or that something is safe and reliable:[1]

Jer 17: 7-8 says, "Blessed is the man that trusteth in the Lord, and whose hope the Lord is. For he shall be as a tree planted by the waters, and that spreadeth out her roots by the river, and shall not see when heat cometh, but her leaf shall be green; and shall not be careful in the year of drought, neither shall cease from yielding fruit."

​בָּטַח (batach) -- Trust, rely, be confident, feel secure.
Usage: The Hebrew verb "batach" primarily conveys the idea of trust or confidence. It is used to describe a sense of security and reliance, …[2]
 
Word Origin: Derived from πίστις (pistis), meaning "faith" or "belief." Corresponding Greek / Hebrew Entries: • H539 אָמַן (aman): To confirm, support, be faithful, to believe. • H530 אֱמוּנָה …[3]
                      
Corresponding Greek / Hebrew Entries: While there is no direct Hebrew equivalent for "arkeó," the concept of contentment and sufficiency can be related to Hebrew words such as "שָׂבַע" (sava)[4] 
 
Trust is the foundation of every meaningful connection, every leap of faith, every risk one takes hoping that things will turn out well. It is the silent force that keeps one, moving forward when there are no guarantees! Trust is the unseen bridge, unseen link that carries one in troubled waters. Trust is the reason one dares to love, believe someone, and trying to love again.

In relationships, trust comes in different shapes like confiding in one friend but hesitating with another. We learn in hard ways, and trust is built in hard ways, but can shatter in an instant. All the hard efforts to trust someone can go void in an instant. So, in this process of learning to trust a person, one learns that everyone is not worthy of our trust that we long to give.

Examples: We work hard, trusting our hard work will be rewarded and our labor bear fruits. Doubt will creep in . . . what if the efforts are wasted? Trust when misplaced it can lead to loss and sometimes can lead to great financial loss even! Not everyone in this world is trustworthy. Yet, trust is the one thing that allows us to live in this world without paralyzing fear.

Life situations: We eat in restaurants without the fear if the food is hygienically prepared or not. We board a plane trusting the pilot to take us high up in the air and bring us back safely to the ground. We trust that the cables will hold for the elevator we are on. We drive a car trusting the engine will be alright, and so on.

Question to our hearts: If we trust in small things as mentioned above, how much more we should trust the Lord who is always faithful? He promised eternal life beyond the grave for believers in Christ.
Jer 17: 7-8 says, "Blessed is the man that trusteth in the Lord, and whose hope the Lord is. For he shall be as a tree planted by the waters, and that spreadeth out her roots by the river, and shall not see when heat cometh, but her leaf shall be green; and shall not be careful in the year of drought, neither shall cease from yielding fruit."

The tree does not fear when there is a drought, because its roots run deep and it is connected to its source. This is what trusting in God looks like. A life planted deep in His faithfulness and not withering in times of uncertainties and standing firm because of His unfailing promises.

The world teaches us to control everything, secure every outcome, monitor every move, while society glorifies independence and self-sufficiency and sells the idea that success comes only when one is in control. But God calls us to do the opposite, and it is a paradox! God calls us to surrender and let go of the illusion of control. The Bible teaches us to trust God to work everything for our good, even if we do not understand.

 Examples: Trust God in all our relationships, every outcome; hardships; difficult situation at work; our family, children, finances, health, disappointments; fears; and so on.

When we place our trust in Jesus Christ, we are planting ourselves by the rivers of water and in His faithfulness. This is like a tree with deep roots, which knows its source despite the drought around (see Psa.1). When we surrender, we are placing ourselves in His mighty hands, the One who intimately cares for our every need, because of His promises! God knows each one of us very intimately; (see Psa. 139).

Here is the wisdom: Trust is the central theme in the Bible, and the Word of God focuses on trusting in God. Scriptures always encourages believers to place their faith, confidence, trust, hope and their sufficiency in God’s unfailing promises and in His wisdom, love, and providence.

Woven in the tapestry of God’s Word is the reminder of God’s faithfulness, His power, and His desire for us to rely on Him. His Omniscience, Omnipotence, and Omnipresence in all of our circumstances are beyond what human minds can fathom fully. In other words, not to be content with ephemeral things, leaving the mist of doubt and fear in the valley, but to focus on the hilltops of eternal security in Christ alone, who is our real hope!

God’s Word is full of promises, with flowers of sweet fragrance, fruit of refreshing flavors, only when trust and faith overlap. Trusting God is not always easy, especially in the challenging times. In the valleys, the storms, the unknown, the fear of unknown, and in the mountain peak experiences, we can trust God because, it is written: "Delight thyself also in the Lord: and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart."  Psa, 37: 4.
 
         In a nutshell, we can say that trust in God by faith is the grace union in which we surrender our entitlements to God, by which our grace grows until all heavens fill our soul and our sinful tendencies are cast out completely!
 
 [1] Cambridge Dictionary
   https://dictionary.cambridge.org › us › dictionary › english › trust
  TRUST | definition in the Cambridge English Dictionary

[2] Strong's Hebrew: 982. בָּטַח (batach) -- Trust, rely, be confident ...

[3] Bible Hub https://biblehub.com › greek
pisteuó: To believe, to have faith, to trust - Bible Hub

[4] Strong's Greek: 714. ἀρκέω (arkeó) -- To be sufficient, to be …

            1.  Pay your bills on time.     
     
          This is such a basic thing that I’m almost embarrassed to bring it up. If you are going to be a good steward of the worldly resources that God has put into your hands, you must start by handling your money, and your business’s money, with discipline. 
           When you chose to buy the home, rent the space, buy the car, invest in software, take on supplies, etc., you made a promise to your vendors and lenders that you would pay back according to their terms.  To not do so puts you in the position of a debtor and cedes power and influence to the person or companies to whom you owe the money.  It adds one more thing to think about to your list of worries.
           On the other hand, if you stay current with everyone, it keeps you in good standing with your vendors, marks you as reliable and responsible, and may, in the long term, open up additional opportunities for you. All that’s from a worldly perspective. 
           In a spiritual sense, it says to God, through your actions, not your words, that you believe his promise to you that He will provide.  It launches you into a new stage of your relationship with Him. You are going from just believing His Word, to actually acting on it. It’s a step up from mumbled prayers at a church meeting to actually stepping out on faith and acting on it. 
           I call it moving from belief to knowledge.  You come to rely on Him, not just because He told you to in His word, but because you have experienced it in your life.   Expect to grow closer to Him as a result.
           I have been in business for over three decades.  I’ve weathered two significant business reversals and at least three serious economic disruptions in the country. In all of that, I don’t think I have ever not paid a bill on time. That’s a testimony to God’s provision.
           If you are struggling with cash flow, decide to trust God to provide, and make a commitment to stick to the promises you made.  Ask him for a date on which you begin to pay every bill on time and trust him to help you get there.
           Money, and your attitude toward it and practices with it, is often the bridge between the world’s economic system and God’s economy.  It is how the world measures and rewards worldly success.  On the spiritual side, it is a useful tool to grow your spiritually and a test to develop your trust in Him.

            2.  Give more.          

                 This refers to the quantity as well as the quality of your giving.
           In terms of quantity, if you are giving a fixed percentage of your income, no matter how you calculate it, you can add a percentage point today.  So, you can go from 10% to 11%, or whatever applies to you.  When you do that, regardless of your current financial circumstances, you take the same step I mentioned above.  You say to God, through your actions, not just your words, “God, I trust you.” You move from a worldly attitude toward money to a Kingdom-oriented view of it.
           Everyone reading this post can do that today — even if you are in adverse financial circumstances. I know that sounds a bit off, but I have, whenever I was in a time of financial pressure, decided to increase my giving.  It was a statement to God that I trust His word, I trust Him and I’m going to act on that trust.
           If you own a business and are not giving through the business, now is the time to consider giving from the business, out of the business cash flow.  The same rationale applies.  It moves you out of the realm of purely worldly values and begins to acknowledge that the business is God’s, and you are a steward of its assets and resources. (See these posts:  Are You Too Comfortable in The Marketplace to Be Effective in the Kingdom?, I am Too Busy to… )
           Because a business is potentially a larger and more significant enterprise than just you personally, it has greater resources, in terms of money, people and influence, and therefore offers the possibility of greater impact.  Deciding to give through the business, and then acting on that decision, is a first step toward a larger role in the Kingdom and more influence in the world.
           But, just as important as the quantity of giving is the quality of your giving. Few Christians give concept this much thought, and it’s too bad because it offers a huge opportunity to impact the world through the Kingdom.
           First, understand that the Bible offers no examples of giving to institutions. Every gift in the New Testament was made by individuals to other individuals. (see Am I Required to Give My Tithes to the Local Church) That’s probably not a message you have ever heard before. 
           What would happen if you could strive to (understanding that it is not always possible) to make your gifts directly to individuals in your sphere of influence whose life could be enhanced by a gift of money?
           Following this idea, here’s what my wife and have done for decades.  Instead of writing a check to a church or non-profit, we set aside, out of each piece of income, a certain amount, and deposit it into a special checking account which we call the Give account.
           This follows the biblical teaching in 1 Corinthians 16
           Do what I told the Galatian churches to do.  On the first day of every week,     each   one of you should set aside a sum of money in keeping with his income, saving it     up, so that when I come no collections will have to be made.
           At this point, the money has been given, but it hasn’t yet been distributed.  We then look for people in our world that may need a gift of money. We both agree and make a gift, seeking to be anonymous and giving it in Jesus’ name. It’s not always possible. A check, for example, has our name on it. But that is the standard to which we strive.
           This makes us, in conjunction with the spirit guiding us, responsible for the gift and forces us to be more attuned to the needs of people around us.  And, it fits the model taught in the New Testament.
           What if you did something similar with your personal funds, and began a similar approach with your business giving? Suppose you created a business fund dedicated to ’giving” and then asked for input from your employes, vendors, and maybe even customers as to people whose lives could be impacted by a gift of money.
           These are two easy, small things you can do today that will eventually have a huge impact on your spiritual journey and nudge you further along the road of living a Christ-centered life in the marketplace.
 
Related Resources
Can Your Business Become a Spiritual Juggernaut?
Want to Come to Know God?  Start a Business.
Should We Compartmentalize Our Christianity?

Is it enough to be active in church and honest in business?

​About Dave Kahle:
​
Dave Kahle has been a Bible teacher, elder, house church leader, short-term missionary and Christian executive roundtable leader.  For 30 years, he has been an authority on sales and sales systems, having spoken in 47 states and eleven countries.  He has authored 13 books, including The Good Book on Business.  His books have been translated into eight-plus languages and are available in over 20 countries. He holds a B. of ED from the University of Toledo, and MA in Teaching from Bowling Green University.

He and Coleen split their time between Grand Rapids, Michigan and Sarasota, Florida.  He is a father, foster father, adoptive father and grandfather to 14 children.

by Guest Blogger Mike Haynes

Peer pressure is nothing new. For generations, it has influenced the choices and behavior of teenagers. But in today's hyperconnected world, that pressure is not only more persistent but also much harder to escape.
 
The constant buzz of social media creates an always-on environment where the need to conform feels never-ending. Cancel culture amplifies the fear of rejection, urging students to fit in at all costs. Fear of missing out (FOMO) can drive students to agree to things they know aren't right.
 
As youth leaders, we can't simply tell students to "be strong" or "make good choices." They need a deeper foundation—one rooted in the gospel—to view peer pressure through God's perspective.
 
Here's how to guide teenagers in navigating peer pressure in a way that is both biblical and genuinely transformative. ​

1. Reframe Peer Pressure Correctly

Students often think peer pressure happens only  when someone tries to force them into bad decisions. However, it is much broader. Peer pressure is any influence—positive or negative—that nudges students to act in ways they might not otherwise.
 
Help students recognize that: Peer pressure is not always overt. It isn’t just about saying no to big temptations like drinking or drugs. It can be as subtle as conforming in everyday choices. Not all peer pressure is harmful. The right friends can inspire wise choices, deeper faith, and obedience to Christ. Jesus Himself faced peer pressure—from societal expectations to cultural norms and the world’s standards of success.
 
When students realize peer pressure is about choosing God’s path over the world’s, they start to view it differently.

        2.  Explain How Peer Pressure Works
Peer pressure often manifests in three key forms:
Direct Pressure – When someone explicitly urges them to act. (“Just try it once!”)
Indirect Pressure – When they feel compelled to conform without anyone saying a word. (“Everyone’s doing it, so I should too.”)
Internal Pressure – When their own fears push them to follow the crowd. (“If I don’t do this, I’ll be left out.”)
 
Engage students in reflecting on when they feel these pressures most—whether it’s from friends, social media, school, or family expectations. Identifying the source is a critical first step in resisting negative influences.

       3.  Address the Heart Behind Peer Pressure
At its core, peer pressure is not merely about actions but about identity. Students often fall into peer pressure because they believe lies like this: “I need to fit in to be valued.” “People’s approval is more important than God’s.” “Standing out means being alone.”
 
The gospel offers a counter-narrative. When students understand their worth in Christ, they are freed from the need to earn acceptance from others.

Share scriptures like these:
 
Galatians 1:10 – “Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God? Or am I trying to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ.”
Romans 12:2 – “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”
1 Peter 2:9 – “You are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession.”

       4.  Equip Students with Practical Tools
Help students develop a five-step strategy for handling peer pressure:
 
Pause – Take a moment before reacting. Avoid snap decisions made to impress others.
Pray – Ask God for guidance. Even a quick, silent prayer can shift perspective.
Plan – Prepare simple responses for difficult situations. (“No thanks.” “I’m not into that.”)
Pivot – Change the topic or walk away if needed.
Partner Up – Build friendships with those who encourage Christlike choices.
 
Encourage role-playing these strategies in a safe environment so students feel more prepared when real-life situations arise.

       5.  Affirm That They Are Not Alone
A significant fear for many students is the thought of standing alone. Reinforce the truth that when they resist negative peer pressure, God is with them.
Share scriptures like these:
 
Joshua 1:9 – “Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”
Matthew 28:20 – “Surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

     6.  Challenge Them to Lead, Not Follow Encourage students to move beyond merely resisting peer pressure. Teach them to create positive peer pressure by being influencers for Christ.
This involves:
 
Upholding what is right, even when it’s not popular. Encouraging others to make godly choices. Living in a way that draws others to the truth of the gospel.
 
When students realize they can set the culture rather than merely adapt to it, they find strength to stand firm in their faith.
 
Final Thought: Equip Students for the Spiritual Battle
Ultimately, peer pressure is not just a social issue but a spiritual battle. It’s a test of whether students will follow Christ or conform to the crowd. By grounding them in the gospel, you help anchor their confidence in Christ—enabling them to withstand the pressures of the world.