“Everyone thinks I’m a Christian because I go to church, but I’m honestly not sure if I am! What does it really mean to be a Christian?”

When we accept Jesus Christ as our Savior (John 1:12), He takes root in our hearts—Jesus is living inside us and working through us. Christians allow Jesus to take control of their lives and obey Him. It is important to obey God; He will help us know in our heart what the right thing is to do. Christians have a relationship with God, and with Him living in us, we are made strong Christians. As Christians, God made us part of the church. Building closer relationships with other church members helps us grow in our relationship with Jesus, along with reading the Bible and praying.

Captain Charles Chalrimawia
Aizawl, Mizoram, India

“I can’t find the word ‘dating’ in the Bible! Got any good dating tips?”

When I first met my husband, I was a young woman who had “sworn off dating” out of frustration and defeat. It’s not an easy journey for any of us! But I immediately connected with my husband because of the authenticity I saw and how passionately he chased after the Lord before he chased after me.

Romans 8:5-6 (NIV) tells us, that “Those who live according to the flesh have their minds set on what the flesh desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires.” I think that before you start looking into the dating scene, you have to first be sure that your eyes are fixed on Jesus. It can be such a challenge if we aren’t first solid in our own identity in Christ, knowing full well who He has made us to be. The Lord has wonderfully crafted you with your own personality and uniqueness. Too often we complicate the dating experience by putting out a false persona and attempting to match the expectations of someone else. Your future spouse needs you, not the Instagram version of you! So, keep chasing Jesus, live in the identity He has placed on your life and He will beautifully direct the steps in your relationships.

Lieutenant Kelsey Bridges
Hampton Roads, VA

“keep chasing Jesus, live in the identity He has placed on your life and He will beautifully direct the steps in your relationships.”

“I always fall asleep during the sermon on Sundays! Got any tips to help me stay awake?”

Hey there! I can totally relate, as this definitely happened to me when I was younger as well. Some tips to help you stay awake would be to first pray before the service that God would keep you alert and awake—“Ask and it shall be given…” (Matthew 7:7, KJV). I know He will honor your request as you seek to know Him more. That’s His promise to us. Having your Bible open to the portion of Scripture that is being read also helps you to be present. And also, taking notes on the sermon is helpful as you listen to God’s Message through the speaker. I pray that as you put these tips into practice, the prayer of your heart will be answered.

Major Cheryl Gilliam
Atlanta, GA