Like any personal relationship, friendships are hard. We sometimes clash with these wonderful people we love and think “There’s no light at the end of this tunnel!” But there always is when you’re called to love somebody.

I’ve been a fan of Gary Thomas and his work for ages. This pastor and author has published multiple works that discuss massive pillars of life. In this edited interview, Gary tells us about his latest literary installment and the inspiration behind it.

We have an update to share from our good friends Pastor X and his wife in Afghanistan. We talk about community and the important role of being in each other's lives. This is a different picture of what the church can do, and what the church can be.

So, what does it look like to stay close and be in a deep, rich community? It looks like avoiding the traps that the enemy sets for us; traps that often derail healthy, great friendships.

Vulnerability is important, and being open with your people has the power to change your relationships.

“Everyone was rooted to the community and the church. There was transparency, accountability, fellowship, and joy. And you actually had to work out your problems with your neighbor instead of running away.”

Our families and the church are two huge topics that are loaded, difficult, and can be heated. Nobody has caused more hurt in so many of our lives than our families. And no one besides family has caused more hurt than the local church.

Once you have your people, not letting them go and deciding to stay can be the hardest part. You'll have to face hurt and go through conflict. You’re going to have to stay, even when it isn’t easy anymore.

We have an update to share from our good friends, “S”, Pastor X, and Steve in Afghanistan. “S” risked her life to do this interview. She spoke with us to encourage and strengthen your faith so that you wouldn’t be afraid of what the enemy throws against you.

When you live in deep relationships, you’re going to hit a point where you have conflict.

There are so many parts of our lives where we simply go through the motions, and we don't think about the fact that God deliberately set us in these places to make a difference.

The power of people in submission, coming together to build an experience, is what we’re called to do as Christians. We’re called to build an experience of Christ, together.