Need a little encouragement? Check out this awesome song from Abandon:

What music are you rocking out to this summer?

by Staff Writer Shannon Meiers

Our society seems to put an unprecedented amount of value on the dollar. Some folks may think that money can buy happiness. It’s actually quite the opposite.

God has given each of us talents. But our fulfillment doesn’t come from what we do – it’s how we use it to glorify God. (more…)

by Editor Abbie Miller

A naïve 2 years ago, I wrote the following after having gotten my first real job:
“I’m really relieved. I was beginning to think I would be spending the next 2 to 4 years as a completely broke college student, worshiping morning, noon and night at the altar of Ramen, and clothing myself in thrift store threads.”

In hindsight, I think I jinxed myself. Those words were strangely prophetic. (more…)

by Staff Writer Graceland King

The voices rose, bounced off the walls and snuck their way in through the door to my room, waking me from my sleep. I was rubbing the drowsiness from my eyes when I heard my mother’s yelling voice. I sighed heavily. What could it be this time?

I stealthily crept out of my room and down the hall to where the argument resonated. Making sure to pause every now and then whenever a creak in the floor boards sounded underneath my feet, I finally made it close enough to see my mother standing in front of her brother who sat on the bottom of the stairs. (more…)

by Editor Halee Matthews

Still bored, huh? Don’t worry, I’ve got more ideas.

6. Tutor. Even though school is out, some parents are trying to help their kids work on their math skills or iron out the wrinkles in their grammar. Whatever the case, pick a subject you’re good at and make good grades in, and let families know you’re willing to do a little tutoring. Just keep it fun and interactive. Then both the kids and parents will appreciate your skills. (more…)

by Editor Halee Matthews

It’s summer (just in case you missed the blinding sun and scorching heat). And now that you’re over the “woo hoo, no school” phase, you might find yourself a little bored. (Unless you’re in summer school, in which case, you have my sympathy.)

If you find yourself staring up at the ceiling, debating how to fill your time, here are some ideas to get you started:

1. Volunteer. Great causes are always looking for people to help them out. You could go with a longer term commitment, like several weeks, or just a few days; most organizations are flexible. (more…)

“You cannot serve both God and money.” “The love of money is the root of all evil.”

I’m sure you’ve heard those before. So what does that mean? What’s the role of money supposed to be?

What do you think? What’s the role of money in your life?

Happy Retro Day! In the spirit of summer, I decided to recycle a past devo for your reading pleasure. Enjoy! ~ Halee

by Assistant Editor Halee Matthews

Let’s pretend you’re barely past your teens, dedicated to your family, and a hard-worker. You’ve been working on your father’s farm since childhood. You have one younger brother who can be a pain, but, well, he’s your brother.

One day, that brother decides he’s had enough of hard work. He hits your dad up for money and takes off. So you step up. You do extra chores and work harder to make up for your brother’s absence. It’s tough but you’re dedicated to making sure the farm runs well.

After a hard day of work in the field, you return to the house to find a party. You find out that your brother has returned so your dad decided to celebrate.

The news throws you for a loop. A party… for what? For running away and leaving you with extra work? For wasting his money and coming home only because he was starving? (more…)