Should Christians avoid tarot cards and astrology?

Christians should avoid tarot cards and astrology. The Bible teaches clearly against the use of any divination. The Lord put Saul to death for consulting a medium, and gave his kingdom over to David (1 Chronicles 10:13-14). We are taught, in the Bible, to seek guidance from God (Deuteronomy 13:1-5), rather than putting our faith in spirits that are not from God (1 John 4:1-3). It is part of our faith journey. We have to trust that God will reveal to us what we need to know when we need to know it.

– Major Storm McClure, Oklahoma City, OK

My parents are getting divorced and I’m struggling. How do I navigate this hurt?

First, I want to say that God loves you. Remember that you are not the reason this is happening. You are validated in your feelings. It’s OK to be not OK. This is not something that is easy to deal with for anyone involved. A marriage can hit many pot holes along the way and sometimes, even if the parents try their best, they may not be able to bridge the gap between them. 

When you are struggling with the uncertainty, unanswered questions and deep emotions, be assured that you have Someone in your corner who can calm the waves of your stormy sea. God will always be your anchor when you feel uneasy. At the worst of times, lean on Jesus. Seek out like-minded, God-fearing friends in a church and youth group to confide in, or someone you trust. You are not alone in this. Jesus is the best Comforter and can bring you peace that surpasses all understanding. Read and understand Philippians 4:6-7. 

– Lieutenant Jeremy Alexander, San Diego, CA

What is the difference between God’s will and free will? If it’s God’s will that it happens, can I really have free will?

What a great question! The shortest possible answer is that while God does have a perfect will for the world and for people, including you, He also has a permissive will that allows us to choose His perfect will—or reject it. There are plenty of examples of this idea in the Bible; use a Bible app and search the word “choose.” 

One dramatic example is at the end of the book of Joshua, when the Israelites are once again being reminded of God’s covenant with them. Joshua tells them to throw away their idols and serve the Lord again: “But if serving the Lord seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve … But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord” (Joshua 24:15, NIV). God’s will is for every one of us to love and serve Him, but the choice is ultimately left to us. Choose life!

– Major Lesa Davis, Hoffman Estates, IL