Sometimes distance comes through growth, changing seasons, or shifts we never expected. What happens when friendship seasons change? Rev. Jessica Van Roekel shares six questions to help you examine what’s happening in your heart, find healing, and consider how God may be using this season to grow you.
Respect in marriage doesn’t appear out of thin air. It grows from something deeper, something often overlooked in conversations about communication skills, conflict resolution, or love languages. At the foundation of a strong, respectful marriage lies mental and spiritual health. Read more for how to strengthen your marriage whether you are married now or hoping to be someday.
In our increasingly disconnected world, the importance of intentionally pursuing relationships and cultivating community cannot be overstated. God created us to thrive in connection with Him and with others. Yet, many of us feel isolated, overwhelmed, or unsure how to build meaningful relationships. The good news is that it’s never too late to foster genuine connections that can transform our lives and the lives of those around us. As we move forward, we can explore what it means to begin building community God’s way and fostering meaningful relationships that strengthen our faith and bring hope to others.
So often, we talk about spotting red flags in relationships, warning signs of toxic behaviors that can leave us drained, discouraged, and even traumatized. And while it’s important to be aware of what to avoid, it’s just as crucial, if not more, to recognize and intentionally surround ourselves with green flag people. Why green flag people matter is simple: these are the individuals who uplift, encourage, and strengthen us in ways that are not just beneficial but vital for our mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. They are the key to healthier, happier relationships.
Marriage is a beautiful covenant designed by God, but it doesn’t come without its challenges. One of the most subtle yet destructive issues in marriage is the presence of unrealistic expectations. When spouses enter marriage with unspoken, idealized, or culturally influenced expectations, they can find themselves facing disappointment, frustration, and even resentment. Learn how to recognize unhealthy expectations in a marriage and replace them with ones that bring peace and connection.
God designed us for connection. From the first breath of humanity, we see that isolation was never part of His plan. In Genesis 2:18, God declared, “It is not good for man to be alone” revealing a foundational truth that we were created for relationships. While the Bible lays the foundation for our need for community, neuroscience affirms that healthy relationships aren’t just spiritually fulfilling—they are essential for our mental and physical well-being. Read more to learn about the benefits of community and why godly community is a cornerstone for both spiritual and mental health.
