Dear Halee,

I’m almost too ashamed to say it, but sometimes I cheat. I’m really bad at math so I do it to pass. I want to stop, but it’s so hard. What do I do?

- Alex* (more…)

(photo courtesy of Toshiharu Kato/American Red Cross)

If you’ve seen a tv or newspaper lately, you’re probably aware of what’s happening in Japan right now. But just in case you missed it, here’s a recap:

- On Friday, Japan suffered a severe earthquake which triggered a tsunami (think of it like glass in a water… if you shake the glass, you get waves. Well, the earth shook and it caused the ocean to move in waves over 30 feet high).

- Several nuclear plants have suffered major damage which workers are scrambling to repair.

- Hundreds of thousands of people have lost their homes/possessions and are living in temporary shelters.

You may be asking, What can I, a teen sitting at home, do about this? (more…)

by Assistant Editor Halee Matthews

I know you’ve been there (I definitely have!) – sitting at a desk with only a few pieces of paper and a pencil when your mind goes blank. Everything you ever learned flies right out the window while A, B, C, and D glare at you, daring you to choose the wrong one.

Just one look.. a quick glance right or left could help you think, maybe point you toward the answer you already know but just can’t remember right now.

What could it hurt? (more…)

Merry Christmas! We hope you all have a fantastic break from school (do I hear cheering?) and a wonderful celebration of the birth of our Savior. Enjoy this take on a classic carol from Hawk Nelson.

~ Halee

P.S. If you need to talk, we’re still here: realteenfaith(at)gmail.com.

Welcome back! Here’s the rest of my music gift ideas (and don’t forget to leave a comment about your favorite Christian music song/album to be entered to win a cd!).

Pop

Reinvention by Superchick

This pop/rock album is full of songs that will make you want to get out of your seat. From Cross the Line which boldly declares, “Revolutions start when someone crosses the line,” with support from bass, electric guitars, and strong drum beats, to Let It Roll, which almost has the feel of a reggae ballad, this group belts out messages of life. In true Superchick fashion, all of these songs highlight the experiences of everyday people, and combine them with personal promises to really live instead of watching and worrying. Anyone on your gift list will be able to relate to Superchick’s lyrics. (more…)

Everyone loves music. But everyone has a personal preference for style, so this week I’m highlighting some awesome Christian music from in a range of sub-genres. Got a friend who likes rock? Pick up a cd from Stryper. Want a little hip-hop? LeCrae’s got you covered. You get the idea.

All of these Christian artists/groups are super-talented musically and lyrically. You can click on their names to check out their websites. Oh, and you could win one of these cds… read on to find out how!

Rock

Awake by Skillet

Chock full of electric and bass guitars, powered by dominant drum beats, and resonating with grunge-style vocals, this cd holds everything you love about rock music. From start to finish, these songs have a classic Skillet sound without being one-note. Each one has its own unique sound, from the hardcore Hero to the softer, raspy croonings of Don’t Wake Me and Lucy. The whole cd has a musical theme that a rock lover will appreciate, coupled with positive lyrics of faith and life. (more…)

Sometimes it’s impossible to find the right gift for someone. So if you find yourself trying to choose between the 143rd tie you’ve given your dad or the 121st pair of slippers, read on! These charities offer you the opportunity to honor someone by giving a gift in their name. It’s one gift your parents are bound to approve of and appreciate.

Samaritan’s Purse

This Christian organization is committed to providing spiritual and physical aid to hurting people around the world. Their fabulous Christmas gift catalog gives you tons of awesome options for charitable gifts. You even have the option to pay for all of one item or share in the price of a larger project, like providing a doctor. (more…)

by Assistant Editor Halee Matthews

It had been a long day. Josh was just one kid in a huge crowd. For hours they had been following the Teacher, waiting to hear him speak or do anything, really. Wherever he went, he did amazing things and no one wanted to miss it.

But they’d been following him for hours and boy, was Josh hungry. Looking around, he found a comfy spot in the grass and sat down. He pulled a bundle out of his bag and carefully unwrapped it – fish sandwiches, his favorite. Mmm, Josh could smell the fresh bread and the – “Does anyone here have any food?” (more…)