Changing our minds in life is a good thing – it allows for learning, growth, and wisdom. However, the influences that shape our thoughts are of the utmost importance. When we allow what we hear in the media, from political parties, or even our peers and friends to decide what we think over the word of God, the decisions we make as a result will not bring about peace in our lives. The Bible says, “Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by th

These days, our country is in desperate need of justice. But the kind of justice we often see called for is inherently biased because of political ideology. True justice, Godly justice, knows no political party; it is inherently even handed and unbiased. The Lord loves justice, so should we. Justice, though, is measured, deliberate, fair, and sober — not vengeful, hateful, or destructive. God says in Deuteronomy, “Follow justice and justice alone, so that you may live and pos

Happy Elevated Friday! Today we highlight a small story of togetherness that is an inspiration during a time of bitter divide. In Pittsford, NY, two best friends, one white and one black, were captured on video doing something that most of the media is not covering these days – being together and being friends. They set up two folding chairs and a sign in front of one of their houses that said “Relax and Have a Beer.” The two friends took the opportunity to invite all, no mat

The nation seems to be nearing a breaking point between political parties, and worse by violence in the streets across the country. It is easy to wonder where the Lord is in all this. Paul reminded the Hebrews of what God said to the prophets of his son, saying, “Your throne, O God, is forever and ever, the scepter of uprightness is the scepter of your kingdom.“ Even though this country seems to be tearing at the seams from political rhetoric and physical violence, Jesus is s

Politics by nature is a fighting ground. Even on issues the nation agrees on, politicians and overly politically inclined people cannot find agreement on solutions because the fight is often more important than the win. When we take our lead as a society from our politicians, we cannot be surprised when we find ourselves in a constant battle. Somewhere along the way, too many people started viewing their favorite politicians as fierce leaders instead of the humble public serv

There are many in the media discourse today who, behind closed doors, prefer division, and foment anger because it benefits them and their interests. Power is created when people divide because when people divide, they look to others to voice their opinions for them. There are good people on both sides of the political aisle and good people in the media, but too often they are not the ones gaining the most attention because their message is one of cohesion, compromise, and co

With the nation being in the throes of a presidential election, now and continuing through the fall, we can expect both parties to take clear sides on nearly every issue that arises. Because of this, we often get baited into joining them in either defense/support or condemnation of each issue. But must we be forced into making a binary decision? In such a situation, there is always a third option: forgiveness. Jesus set the example of how we are to react to sin or controversy

Happy Elevated Friday! Today we highlight a story of a company whose mission is helping people who need a hand in getting their lives back on track. Brightmark in San Francisco is a recycling company who innovatively recycles plastics, food and agricultural waste, and electronics. However, while recycling is a great thing, it is not what they do that matter most, it is the why and how. Brightmark hires men and women transitioning out of prison and back into society to work in

The last few weeks has exposed many things about our society, some good, some bad, and some terrible. But God is closer than ever to us in these times of turmoil and crisis. While He does not escort us through life avoiding every pitfall, He does give us the peace of mind and confidence in our abilities to confront what needs to be changed in our world. In John, Jesus said, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let yo

President Trump signed an executive order yesterday in efforts to reform police work around the country, and even though that executive order has been debated by both sides as to its merits, what matters is that it is a step of leadership in a time when the nation needs it. Leadership is a difficult thing because it calls for one to manage situations within a leader’s control but also lead through times of crisis beyond a leader’s control. A Godly leader knows that when thing