Alannah Francis
International Women's Day: Words of Wisdom from 4 Remarkable Christian Women
This International Women's Day, we take a look at four remarkable Christian women from various fields, of various time periods, and their words of wisdom.
Bible verses on the beautiful bond between grandparents and grandchildren
The relationship between grandchildren and grandparents is a very special one and in families where the grandparents step in to take care of their grandkids for regular or extended periods, the bond between the two generations can grow even stronger.
'Blessed': How is this word used in the Bible?
You'll be used to seeing #blessed attached to posts from a variety of social media accounts, regardless of their religious views or lack thereof, if you're a regular user of almost any social media platform. Even some Christians have found themselves using the term to express their appreciation of what they perceive as gifts from God. But are we right to use it in this way?
There's more to Lent than fasting: a look at the 3 components of Lenten observance
If you only paid attention to the mainstream media, you would be forgiven for thinking that Lent is all about fasting in response to Jesus' temptation in the wilderness, and not much else.
Faith and politics: What these 2016 US presidential candidates have said about their beliefs
With the excitement of Super Tuesday over, the presidential candidate field is being defined even more. But what about the faith of the candidates?
4 lessons we can learn from Mary, the mother of Jesus
As many of us in the UK are looking forward to celebrating Mother's Day this Sunday, our minds are focused on the remarkable things that our mothers have done for us and how they inspire us. In the midst of all this, let's take some time to reflect on lessons that we can learn from one of the most well known female figures in the Bible, Mary, the mother of Jesus.
Shopping, Scripture and the Sabbath: Why so many Christians are against plans to extend Sunday trading hours
The issue of shopping on a Sunday is a hot topic in the UK at the moment as the British government deliberates over whether to pass a law to extend Sunday trading hours. But why is this such a big issue for Christians today?
7 ways to keep your Christian faith strong while traveling
Whenever we get the chance to take a holiday we see it as a break from the everyday tasks and responsibilities that we are required to do. But it shouldn't mean that we break away from God. Here are some of the ways you can keep your faith strong while travelling.
God's pruning process for Christians: How is God pruning you?
The prospect of pruning can be pretty off putting if we're still attached to the things that we know God is telling us to separate from. But the act of pruning is done out of love, in order to stimulate growth. Understanding the purpose of pruning is key if we're to appreciate it as a positive exercise when we're called to do it in our lives.
11 Bible verses which reveal the nature of sacrifice
Sacrifice is a reoccurring theme in the Christian faith. We're called to offer ourselves as living sacrifices, to sacrifice certain comforts and it's all in response to God's grace and love for us which is illustrated by Jesus' ultimate sacrifice as payment for our sins.
6 Bible verses on spiritual renewal for Christians
As we approach a new year, our minds tend to turn to fresh starts. But we don't have to wait for a new year, new month or even a new day to affect change, experience change in our lives and leave our old ways and bad habits behind. One of the benefits of accepting Jesus as our saviour is the promise of spiritual renewal.
Not the biggest Justin Bieber fan? Here's something you'll agree with him on
As Justin Bieber celebrates his 22nd birthday today, we take a look back at the warning he issued to his fans in a recent interview with a UK newspaper. You might not agree with Bieber on a whole host of things but you'd be hard pressed to argue against him when he says...
Christians and Tattoos: Historical body art has Christian connection
It's not uncommon for non-Christians to adorn their skin with Christian-related designs - Bible verses, Bible-inspired imagery or iconic Christian symbols. However, there's one type of design that, until now, many may not have fully appreciated for its Christian influence...
Christian health worker suspended for praying with Muslim colleague launches legal challenge
A Christian health worker has launched a legal challenge in response to her suspension after she was accused of attempting to convert a Muslim colleague to Christianity.
Selena Gomez joins Hillsong Young and Free worship band for special performance of 'Nobody'
Selena Gomez treated Hillsong Young and Free concertgoers to a surprise performance last week. Gomez, who is a Hillsong regular, took to the stage alongside Hillsong's Young and Free worship band at LA's Belasco Theatre to give the audience a live rendition of her song Nobody.
How Bible teaching on temptation can guide us as Christians today
As Christians, we face temptation every single day. As we make our way through Lent, it's a topic that many of us are thinking about more than ever. Jesus' words to his disciples give us a great starting point to thinking about how can we can work to tackle temptation today.