Spend 14 seconds tapping through your Insta-stories and you’ll most likely experience a fair amount of emotional whiplash: Your coworker’s political hot-take followed by a…
A Lament for the Unity of the Church
Lord, my heart feels heavy. I’m reminded of that summer a few years back—I was cliff-jumping at Lake Superior with my family. It was July, but…
Trusting God In Your (Online) Dating Life
There are seemingly contradictory messages directed toward Christian singles (like me) who want to no longer be single (also me). Some encourage us to “put ourselves…
A List of Things I Love: Remembering All There Is To Be Thankful For
Inspired by Lauren Washer, I’m closing out the week of Thanksgiving with a list of things I love. I had too much fun with this...what…
In the Name of Productivity I Lose Sight of Fellowship With God
I’m tempted to approach life as a series of to-do lists. I have my work list, my home list, that list that stays in my…
More Than Sunday Morning Christians
At the end of each Sunday morning church service, one of my pastors stands at the back of the sanctuary near the door and says, “Let…
Misquoted Scripture: “For I know the plans I have for you…”
Reading the Old Testament is challenging, but verses like Jeremiah 29:11 make it more bearable. You’re probably familiar: Jeremiah 29:11 writes, “‘For I know the plans…
Not Strong Enough to Carry This Weight
Andrew Peterson's song “He Is Worthy” played on repeat during my drive home a few months ago. The song is reminiscent of liturgical worship—like when the…
![Misquoted Scripture: “[God] Will Give You the Desires of Your Heart”](https://samanthaswanson.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Misquoted-Scripture-1-800x788.png)
Misquoted Scripture: “[God] Will Give You the Desires of Your Heart”
“Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart.” - Psalm 37:4 “Lord, I know you know what I…
He Knows My Name?
A retelling of John 20:11-16.Jesus was presented before the Jews wearing a purple robe and a crown of thorns—both unable to cover the hideous, deep…