About twenty years ago, I had the opportunity to attend a meeting where a brother named Oren Yoder was invited to speak. On that occasion, he addressed a topic we often overlook: the spiritual influence we exert on others. In that gathering, through various biblical passages, we were reminded how, in Scripture, grandparents, parents, and children influence one another, and how that influence can extend across generations. The Bible clearly shows that a person’s decisions can sow both life and blessing, but also pain, hatred, and death when they are not guided by God. Over the years, I have come to confirm how true this teaching is. I have seen how one person can profoundly affect another’s life, for better or for worse. Therefore, as believers, we need to pause and examine our attitudes and actions, understanding that we do not live in isolation, but constantly influence those around us. Our Lord Jesus Christ is the perfect example of influence exercised well. His life transformed His ...
By Henry Preza Guilt by itself doesn’t solve anything. What truly matters is to confess sin before God and return to spiritual disciplines. Genuine repentance opens the door to restoration. Many young Christians struggle with masturbation and the guilt that comes with it. This article offers a biblical and practical reflection on how to face this habit, understand God’s forgiveness, and pursue genuine spiritual freedom. Masturbation and its false acceptance Some scholars define masturbation as a pleasurable practice that helps young people “get to know themselves better.” Others even describe it as a “blessing from God” to prevent human depravity, or as something acceptable up to a certain age. The problem with these views is that they move away from biblical truth. Something that goes against God’s design for sexuality can never be a blessing. Nor is it right to say that it’s acceptable at one stage of life and not at another, because masturbation often becomes a habit that last...