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by Editor Halee Matthews

“Immediately the boy’s father exclaimed, ‘I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!’” ~ Mark 9:24

When I was a kid and I read that verse, I thought it was kinda screwy. I mean, he believed, he had unbelief. Did the dude believe or not? Maybe he wanted to believe. But in that case, why say “I do believe”?

But I’ve grown to realize, like much of life, it’s not that simple. Belief isn’t a simple yes or no deal. There will always be degrees of it.

For example, I believe there are no aliens. Well, I believe that about 85%. (more…)

by Staff Writer Matthew VanTryon

I’ve always enjoyed writing, from the time I was a little kid. I recently read a journal I had written in third grade, and one specific entry said, “I HAVE DECIDED TO BE A WRITER!” (yes, in capital letters. Don’t ask why, because I don’t know.) I have also always enjoyed sports. I am what many would consider a “baseball nerd.” Therefore, it seems only logical to pursue a career in sports journalism.

I had the opportunity to interview Nat Newell, a sports editor from the Indianapolis Star. His answers were insights into some of the intricacies of the job.

Newell loved sports growing up, but quickly realized that being a professional athlete wasn’t realistic. After several twists and turns, Newell found himself in the newspaper industry. He used to be a staff writer, and is now an editor. (more…)

Dear Halee,

So I’m in high school and I have a huge crush on two amazing guys. They’re both really awesome guys and great Christians. Problem is, I don’t know which one I like more. But now, one of the guys is in a relationship with one of my friends. When I found this out, my stomach just dropped and everything around me just stopped. Does that mean I like him? I don’t know what to do.

~ Tara*

***

Hey Tara,

That’s definitely a tough situation! I can understand how frustrating that is. I think you owe it to yourself and these two guys (and the friend who is dating one of them) to be sure of your feelings before you do or say anything.

Maybe this will help clarify things a little bit. Think about these questions and see which guy comes to mind: (more…)

Free download of Fireflight’s He Weeps HERE. (Hurry up – expires soon!)

Where is God when the rain falls… And takes the car off the road? Is He standing in the storm? Where is God when the child cries… And no one bends to pick her up? Could someone tell me what He does?

He weeps, He weeps with you
He weeps with me
When I’m on my knees
And I taste defeat
He weeps, He weeps

- Fireflight

So wait a minute.

The friend who committed suicide.

That dad who abused you.

The mom who left.

The sickness that changed your life.

You mean God could’ve stepped in and changed all that… could’ve saved the day… but he didn’t? He just wept? (more…)

By RTF Editor Abbie Miller

“So, what are you planning to do with your life?”

Yes, it had happened. Someone had asked me the worst question in the history of the universe. What am I planning to do with my life? Really?! Well, I was thinking I might waste a few years living on the streets, get arrested and try out the state prison, maybe become an alcoholic if I feel like it… (more…)

by Editor Halee Matthews

The future. At this point in your life, it’s probably a word you’ve heard a lot. And that’s what we’re talking about this month. We’re going to highlight some careers you may want to consider. We’re going to help you figure out what you want to do and be. Because you’ve got a lot of decisions to make. Like are you going to go to college, and if yes, what will you major in? What are you going to do after high school or college? What career will you pursue?

That’s a lot of choices for someone who may not even be able to vote yet. (more…)

by Editor Halee Matthews

Every April, I remember. I remember a day that took my life and turned it upside down. I remember a day when what I thought I wanted, who I thought I was, changed. Forever. (more…)

By RTF Staff Writer Jennifer Grimes

Have you ever stood in line at Walmart, sat in class, or walked through the mall and just looked at the people around you? I don’t mean looked in a creepy stalker way. (more…)