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Journey with Hope
Online Bible Study - Bible Teaching to Help Believers Grow in Faith and Obedience
Christ our hope in life and death!



Common Criticisms of Christianity: How Do We Respond?
Criticisms of Christianity are everywhere today, but how should Christians respond? We are not called to argue, but to give a calm and truthful defense of our faith. Many objections about hell, judgment, love, politics, purity, and obedience come from misunderstandings of sin, grace, and the true character of Christ. We answer not with fear or pride, but with humility, truth, and the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
Carol Plafcan
May 17 min read


Covenant Marriage and the Hope of Beulah Land
What does covenant marriage in the Bible reveal about God’s relationship with His people? Scripture uses marriage to picture God’s faithful love, from Isaiah’s promise of Beulah Land to Christ as the bridegroom of the Church. Covenant, restoration, and eternal hope come together in God’s plan, showing that those who belong to Him are called into a lasting, faithful union rooted in His love and fulfilled in Christ.
Carol Plafcan
Apr 246 min read


Christian Witness in a Divided World: Living the Fruits of the Spirit Amid Conflict
In a divided world, Christians are called to reflect Christ’s love, patience, and gentleness in every interaction, even with those who oppose or disagree with us. True witness isn’t political debate or retaliation but showing the fruit of the Spirit, praying for others, and living faithfully. Our example, guided by Christ, speaks louder than words, promoting peace, justice, and transformation through the Holy Spirit rather than anger or vengeance.
Carol Plafcan
Jan 306 min read


Walking Before God: What Genesis 17:1 Reveals About Faithful Obedience
What does it really mean to be walking before God? In Genesis 17:1, God calls Abraham to faithful obedience before reaffirming His covenant. This reflection explores following God, walking with Him, and how trust, holiness, and the Spirit shape our daily walk of faith.
Carol Plafcan
Jan 166 min read


Self-Denial in a Self-Focused World
In a culture obsessed with comfort and self-fulfillment, Jesus calls His followers to something radically different. Self-denial in a self-focused world is about submission, trust, and discovering a deeper, freer life in Christ. This post explores why denying ourselves is essential to following Him, how it shapes our faith, and helps us find joy on the other side of discomfort. Are we willing to say yes to God even when it costs us comfort?
Carol Plafcan
Jan 67 min read


Living as a Slave of Christ Today
What does it really mean to be a “Slave of Christ”? Scripture uses this strong word on purpose. Explore the depth of biblical servanthood, Christ’s example of humility, and the call to live ready, faithful, and fully surrendered to Him.
Carol Plafcan
Nov 21, 20258 min read


Scoffers in the Bible and the Teachable Spirit
Scoffers mock truth—then and now—but God blesses the teachable. From online “trolls” to biblical scoffers, pride closes hearts while humility opens them to God’s wisdom. Are you teachable or a scoffer? Discover what Scripture says about both.
Carol Plafcan
Oct 21, 20256 min read


Unity in the Body of Christ: the Call to Oneness in Love
Discover how every member matters in the Body of Christ. Explore how God-given gifts, love, and true fellowship unite the church to fulfill His purpose.
Carol Plafcan
Sep 23, 20257 min read


Guarding Your Heart: What the Bible Teaches
The Bible calls us to guard our hearts, for life flows from within (Proverbs 4:23). Yet even when our hearts condemn us, we can rest in the promise that God is greater than our heart (1 John 3:20).
Carol Plafcan
Sep 2, 20256 min read


How to Love Life in Christ and See Good Days
Discover how to love life in Christ. 1 Peter 3 shows the path to joy: choose righteousness, pursue peace, endure trials, & defend faith with grace. Live for Him and find true blessings.
Carol Plafcan
Aug 26, 20256 min read


When Faith Divides: The Cost of Following Jesus
Following Jesus isn’t always comfortable—and sometimes it costs us dearly. In Matthew 10, Christ warns that His truth can divide families, challenge loyalties, and force us to choose whom we will ultimately follow. Yet He also promises strength, comfort, and eternal reward to those who stand firm. Discover why true discipleship requires courage, sacrifice, and a love for Jesus that rises above every earthly tie.
Carol Plafcan
Jul 25, 20257 min read


God’s Ongoing Creative Work in Believers
We know that God creates. This is the first thing we learn about Him in the Bible, that He has created all that is and that we are the...
Carol Plafcan
Jul 22, 20257 min read


Establish Your Heart: Anchored in Grace
Most of us want to do business with a well established company. We know when we do we are more likely to have a good experience. We can trust that company will be there next year to take care of our needs. They won't just disappear if they have one bad year. Interestingly, James tells us to " establish our hearts " (James 5:8). He wants your heart to be stable and firm in Christ. He wants us to make our hearts trustworthy and faithful, confident in the love of God. We n
Carol Plafcan
Jul 18, 20257 min read


The Oil of the Spirit: Ready for the Bridegroom
In the parable of the Wise and Foolish Virgins in Matthew 25:1-13, one thing we understand immediately is the importance of oil. Of...
Carol Plafcan
Jul 4, 20256 min read


When Christians Disagree: Unity Without Compromise
The Basis for Unity Christians obviously don't always agree on every issue. So how do we respond when we disagree with others in the...
Carol Plafcan
Jun 17, 20258 min read


When Reconciliation Fails: Jacob and Esau’s Legacy
Forgiveness and reconciliation are not the same, and Jacob and Esau show us why it matters. Unforgiveness can outlive a lifetime, shaping families and even nations. What begins as personal bitterness can grow into generational division. Scripture warns us not to let a bitter root take hold. As believers, we are called to break the cycle and become ministers of reconciliation.
Carol Plafcan
Jun 13, 20257 min read


Hearing God Today: Lessons from the Burning Bush
So often incredibly significant stories in the Bible seem to be reduced to Vacation Bible School puppet shows or bedtime Bible stories...
Carol Plafcan
Jun 6, 20257 min read


God’s Character Seen in the Fruit of the Spirit
What are the characteristics of God? You have probably heard as a Christian, that we are to have the "Fruit of the Spirit." This fruit refers to the characteristics of God that we as Christians, who claim to want to be like Him, must show. We may not always show them, but we are expected to grow spiritually to become more like the God we serve. Let's look at God’s character as seen in the Fruit of the Spirit. The Fruit of the Spirit is one way the Holy Spirit shows His wo
Carol Plafcan
Jun 3, 20256 min read


Are We Sinners Saved by Grace or Just Hypocrites?
If you sin, does that make you a hypocrite? Are all Christians hypocrites? Of course not. We have become too quick to agree with the...
Carol Plafcan
May 27, 20256 min read


How Can We Please God? Biblical Traits That Delight Him
What pleases God? What is it that you and I can do to bring joy to His heart? Let's look at some of the characters in the Bible that...
Carol Plafcan
May 6, 20256 min read
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