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Faith
‘God gave me a prophetic word that I would be salt and light in the dark place of the media’
TV presenter, Tearfund ambassador and now author Gemma Hunt talks to our editor Doll Fisher, about how her career has developed
A lesson from sunflowers
Walking through a field on a warm August evening, my eye caught sight of a glimmer of colour. There, standing tall but alone in the middle of the field, was the glorious bright yellow head of a sunflower. It seemed confident and not at all out of place among the dreary brown vegetation. Its bright, sun-filled face beamed at the world beyond
Martha and Mary: learning to simplify
Elaine Storkey unpacks the story of the two sisters, and shows us that the traditional interpretation doesn’t give us the full picture
Signs & Wonders in everyday life
Stories of God’s intervention
Celebrating 40 years of Woman Alive!
‘It’s so exciting to be heading up a brand with such rich history and potential’
Signs & Wonders in everyday life
Stories of God’s intervention
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The subscription includes printed copies delivered to your door, plus unlimited access to our website. Wherever you are on your faith journey, Premier Woman Alive offers ideas, inspiration and advice to help draw you close to God.
God, me and ADHD
Margaret Reed Roberts was diagnosed in her late 40s. Here she describes the unsettling journey it has taken her on
My thoughts on the assisted dying bill and the sovereignty of God
On 29 November 2024, MPs will vote on the proposed bill to give terminally ill people in England and Wales the right to choose to end their life. Having lost her parents in quick succession, Danielle Finch knows the pain of watching loved ones suffer and considers what this bill might mean for Christians.
In a time of great need, God told us to praise him
Woman Alive deputy editor, Jemimah Wright shares a story of provision that taught her an important spiritual lesson.
Why I believe women’s fiction is an important tool to share the gospel
‘When my quiet times are dry, reading a good quality novel can help me connect with God in profoundly spiritual, and, yes, emotional, ways,’ says Nicki Copeland.
What is hope and why is it so powerful?
‘Hope is a way of thinking. It can break us or make us, depending on the state of our minds,’ says Pauline Newton.
I told my friends about Jesus on Facebook, and this is what happened
Kate Orson shares her experience of making herself vulnerable on social media and the rejection that followed.
Halloween is not harmless: ‘I have seen the power of evil in Haiti, but Jesus is more powerful’
‘Witchcraft is not harmless entertainment in Haiti,’ says Ingvild Snow, as she shares the realities of the power of darkness, but reminds of us our authority and victory in Jesus.
Atheists now outnumber theists in the UK – but it’s not all bad news
Ann-Louise Graham says that Christians now being perceived to be the ‘bad guys’ resonates not because this is a novel concept, but because it has long been the reality. She encourages us to stand firm under opposition.
Thoughts on the fairness of life
A prayer and reflection for November
‘Trust is a major key in our walk with God’
Well-known speaker and author Nancy Goudie is the founder of NGM (New Generation Ministries) and runs life-changing spiritual health weekends. She explains how it all started and shares the more personal struggles and miracles along the way
Are you caring for your neighbour?
Kezia Neusch is the creator of The Whole Home, an online space where she explores attainable low-impact living. Should all Christians be doing this?
On being different to the world
Hope Bonarcher shares honestly about the sting of rejection, and learning more about herself
On the pressure to do the ‘right’ thing
Veronica Zundel urges us to look at how we live not to appease campaigners, or make ourselves feel more holy, but because to do so is loving others as Jesus did
The gift we didn’t know we needed
Signs & Wonders in everyday life
I have learnt to consider the challenges of menopause through the unique perspective of faith
On World Menopause Day, Jayne Manfredi asks, ‘Does scripture tell a different story? Not one which denies the value of hormone therapy or modern medicine, but one which might support women in mind and soul whilst going through this transition?’
God taught me to see the gold in the women I visit in prison
Bex Roberts from charity Junction 42 explains why she has hope for the female prisoners she works with, regardless of whether they fit neatly into our often man-made Christian boxes.
Does God speak to us when we sleep?
Maxine Harrison shares what she learned from Pastor Stephanie Ike Okafor’s new book, The Power of Your Dreams: A Guide to Hearing and Understanding How God Speaks While You Sleep.
‘God led me to give up my secure job of 24 years, to run a school on a ship for missionary kids!’
Ruth Cooper wasn’t sure she was confident enough be a preacher or be on an outreach team, but using her teaching skills to enable people to see God’s love for them in a practical way felt more accessible.
‘I am a missionary to my own country – England’
We might think being a missionary means going to a far off land, and living amongst people of a different culture, but Lucy Burrows shares her story of God calling her to ministry in her home country.
‘I saw a man’s leg grow back!’
Jemimah Wright shares a testimony of healing from the Philippines, when she saw what she describes as ‘the Bible coming to life in front of me.’
We need more people fostering and adopting
Prayer and reflection
Lord, send me!
For years, Ruth Cox felt called to serve overseas but it was a number of years before she was able to, and there was much heartache as well as joy along the way
Without bravery ‘Christianity will perish’
Hope Bonarcher considers what might be behind Elon Musk’s recent statement on faith and urges us to speak up for truth
How God uses adoption to forward his plan
Elaine Storkey looks at the stories of Moses and Esther, explaining how they both were instrumental in Israel’s deliverance from its enemies, as well as revealing God’s heart to care for orphans throughout scripture
Pineapple-sized tumour disappeared!
Your stories of God’s intervention
How the Bible was deliberately censored to control African slaves
Dr Sheila Akomiah-Conteh unpacks the origins and teachings of the little-known 19th-century Slave Bible
'God made a way for my husband and I to build a hospital for the destitute Quechua people of Peru'
From a high school romance to moving mountains in the Andes, Dr Martina John shares how the dream she and her husband shared, became a reality.
Jesus healed me of leukaemia!
Hazel King shares her personal story of healing following a cancer diagnosis with a very slim chance of survival.
Education is a lifelong journey
A prayer and meditation for September
Embracing change
Hope Bonarcher unpacks what it means to be transformed by God’s Spirit, explains why this is so different to society’s view of change, and shares radical testimonies of how individuals have been impacted by God’s life-changing grace
God answered my husband’s specific prayer requests
Signs & Wonders in everyday life
Ten ways to press in when our walk with Jesus feels stale
What do we do when what began as a good spiritual discipline has become dull and dreary? Jenny Sanders gives some ideas on how to meet with God in new ways.
What happened when my husband lost his faith
‘Doubt is no small thing, it’s heavy, invasive and not an emotion someone can carry alone,’ says singer, Steph Porter. She shares her husband’s experience walking away from faith, and his journey back.
The spirit of sports
Prayer and reflection
Nurturing faith within your family
Cathy Madavan reminds us that parents have a crucial role in encouraging faith and provides tips on how we can do this in our everyday, busy lives
Healed of anorexia aged 75
Signs & Wonders in everyday life. Your stories of God’s intervention
The joy of reading
Prayer and reflection
I was an atheist and ended up conversing with God
Your stories of God’s intervention
God told me, ‘I give you desires so I can fulfil them’
We can sometimes question God’s character when our circumstances are hard. Jemimah Wright remembers a time when God showed her his love and power in fulfilling her desire… to go swimming.
Creating ‘home’ wherever we go
Prayer and Reflection
God brings healing through words of knowledge
Signs & Wonders in everyday life - Your stories of God’s intervention
‘After a diagnosis of MS when I was 28, I moved from despair to learning the power of hope and joy’
While waiting for her own healing, Jennifer O’Brien prayed for people randomly and often; at work, in coffee shops, anywhere.
A sense of togetherness
Prayer and reflection
From trauma to God’s glory
When Jenny Gilpin discovered she was the product of gang rape, it started her on a huge journey of healing in which she discovered the true fatherhood of God
How to embrace festival season – if that’s your thing
A native New Yorker, Hope Bonarcher’s formative experience of festivals centered on drug-fuelled “raves”. Now a Christian and mum, she has learned to enjoy mainstream music events on a different level
‘We follow a camping God’
In festival season Veronica Zundel admits that, while she loves Greenbelt, she prefers comfort to camping – but nevertheless is convinced that God loves to be on the move
God used bunions to reconnect me to my mother
Signs & Wonders in everyday life
Life and hope this Easter
Sinead Mcleod shares a prayer and reflection for April
Time to stop being offended
Author John Bevere talks about the danger of taking offence in his classic book The Bait of Satan. Thirty years after it was first published, our modern day cancel culture is proof we might still need a reminder…
The ‘believe me’ gap
Dr Belle Tindall highlights how women are still not taken as seriously as men, but encourages us to stand up against such prejudice – as Jesus did
We don’t have to understand everything that happened at Easter
Veronica Zundel unpacks the differing views on the cross, and provides her own take on the meaning of Easter
‘God gave me a piano' and 'I received a prophetic word about my future husband’
Signs & Wonders in everyday life. Your stories of God’s intervention
Be kind to yourself
In Matthew 22:36-39 Jesus was asked: “Teacher, which is the greatest commandment?” and he answered: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the greatest and first commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbour as yourself.’”
Lessons for Lent through my own story of loss
Through her own story of loss and that of Mary and Martha in John chapter 11, author Pamela Havey Lau encourages us to truly believe that our Lord feels our pain deeply and waits faithfully for us, and with us
Nurtured in the hidden places
Jill Duff, Bishop of Lancaster and former director of St Mellitus College, North West, spoke with Jane Knoop about the topsy-turvy nature of God’s kingdom
'How I got my ‘Jesus dungarees’' , 'God gave us the perfect flat' and 'how worship helped me with sleep training my baby'
Your stories of God’s intervention
God's comfort after a broken heart, hearing the Holy Spirit at midnight in a train station and angel feathers
Signs & Wonders in everyday life. Your stories of God’s intervention
Do you do everything in love?
Prayer and reflection for February
Who are you? Do you know your true identity?
Author of Image Bearers, Rachel Atkinson highlights the importance of integrating our emotional and spiritual lives
Joyce Meyer - An extract from her latest book Overcoming Every Problem
Start the new year with some inspiring words from world renowned speaker and author Joyce Meyer
'God gave me my eyesight back' and other miracle stories to increase your faith!
Your stories of God’s intervention
Contented living in a time of financial crisis
Sinead McLeod shares a thought and prayer for the month of January
God gave me four ‘keys’ to help navigate the tough waiting time ahead of the fulfilment of a promise
Sarah Hodgkinson, founder of Positioned For Promise, shares her wisdom for those struggling with the waiting.
God's miraculous provision and calling to Scotland
Your stories of God’s intervention
Lucy Grimble: From struggling with self-doubt to leading thousands in worship
Devon-based Lucy Grimble has led worship at venues as large as Wembley Arena and The Royal Albert Hall and her fourth album, Between the Shadow and the Sun, was released in October. Here she speaks with Jemimah Wright about how she moved from being a private worshipper to leading others
Well-known Christians reflections on Christmas
Here is a taster of a new book full of reflections, carols, poems and prayers for the festive season!
Prayer & Reflection: Celebrating Christmas
Sinead Mcleod shares a thought and a prayer for Christmas
Stop the persecution of women
*This article contains content of a sensitive nature that some might find disturbing*
Five things I have learned about…humility
Cathy Madavan gives us some great ideas to actively cultivate more humility in our lives
'God gave me friends' and other testimonies...
Signs & Wonders in everyday life
Life after adultery and divorce
Beryl Moore, 87, had a dramatic conversion in her 40s after adultery and divorce, and subsequently leading a renewal and healing centre in Kent
We don’t talk enough about spiritual attack… and it’s very real
Curate Philippa Cook explains that the struggles we face in the day-to-day are often not just earthly.
‘Who really wants to be “evangelised” (and without an anaesthetic)?!’
Veronica Zundel challenges us to check we are fulfilling God’s full mission mandate
Living out your life mission
Within every hope and flicker of a dream is a core value bursting with love, true brilliance and wonder; it is ever ready to shine. It is our values and talents, both God-given, that when combined create our unique yet powerful purpose; one we would be wise to follow.
From beauty therapist to vicar
Rev Kaye Gardiner spoke with Becky Hunter-Kelm about her journey from beauty therapist to vicar
A word for the Sainsbury's delivery guy
Your stories of God’s intervention
Five things I have learned about…sharing my faith
Cathy Madavan encourages us all to find winsome ways to share the good news with those around us
Awake to the world around us
Recently my son’s school held an eco-themed week, where the children were encouraged to walk to and from school each day while keeping a record of the nature they spotted on their travels as well as picking up litter. The growing awareness that we are in the midst of the most challenging battle of our times is irrefutable.
God heard my cry and moved us to Scotland
In August 2021 I was absolutely frazzled and God encouraged and challenged me to both seek his way and walk in it (Jeremiah 6:16). My husband and I needed to get away and during a last-minute Google search for accommodation, Dunoon in Scotland came up. We booked, borrowed my dad’s car and went.
Help for those struggling with addiction
Rev Sharon Murphy has been driven by a 20-year mission to minister to people living on the margins – especially young people impacted by alcohol and drugs
God has plans for the future of earth – so should we
Veronica Zundel asserts that it is time to take God’s mandate to look after the world and all that it is in seriously
A podcast about ghosts led me to God, it definitely wasn’t their intention
Fiona Stewart loved listening to stories of paranormal activity, and then one day they unexpectedly led her to God.
Embracing doubt
When the simple Pentecostal faith she inherited cracked under pressure, Dr Selina Stone’s faith evolved into a spacious, generous theology. She spoke with Jane Knoop about how this has changed her life
The priceless love of God
A thought and prayer for August
Is Christianity relevant today?
Rev Jules Middleton explains why the Christian faith is just as relevant today as it was 2000 years ago.
Deconstructing my faith is what saved it, we shouldn’t be afraid to start from scratch
Kat Wordsworth shares how 'deconstructing' her faith allowed it to grow and we shouldn't be afraid of doubt.
‘Does reading bring us closer to God?’
Prayer and reflection
Healing miracle at Luton airport!
Your stories of God’s intervention.
Do Christians believe in reincarnation?
Whether or not Christians believe in reincarnation is a topic frequently Googled, so here writer Lauren Windle shares her thoughts.
You’re not a Martha or a Mary - you’re a daughter of Christ
Author Amy Boucher Pye explains why we shouldn’t fall into the trap of cultural typecasting of these famous biblical sisters.
Every day is an adventure
Prayer and reflection
Joanna Gaines on telling our stories…
In this book extract, New York Times bestselling author Joanna Gaines on how she learned to break free from years of hiding her true self, and continues to challenge untruths she has believed
My teenage son came back to God
Your stories of God’s intervention
What is faith?
Veronica Zundel unpacks how we each exercise faith every day, and the importance of evidence in the absence of proof
Are Christians allowed to drink alcohol?
The Bible has a lot to say about alcohol, but is it alright for Christians enjoy a drink or should they stay away?
The best Christian retreats for women in the UK in 2023
Sometimes we all need a break. Here, writer Rachael Cottle runs through the best UK Christian retreats for women this year.
Three things my atheist dad taught me about God
Writer Shakira explains how her father's love and support brought her closer to Jesus, even though he wasn't a practicing Christian.
I’m 17 and no one told me seeking God would be so hard but so worth it
Writer Praise Kujore shares a moving insight into her faith journey, making the God of her parents, her own.
Testimonies: No rain on my wedding day...
Signs & Wonders in everyday life. Your stories of God’s intervention
Parents, do not despair - there is hope for our young people!
Alongside all the current crises they are facing – mental health challenges, societal pressures, and an epidemic of faith deconstruction that is leading some to walk away from Jesus – Liz Bewley is convinced that the Holy Spirit is moving
God gave us a building for £1!
Victoria Armstrong is the founder of the Oasis Centre in Gorton, Manchester. When she first moved there as a student, she could never have imagined the vision God would give her
A prayer of thanks – and hope
The flowers of May are the Lily of the Valley, which symbolises the return of happiness, alongside the Hawthorn, which means hope – how apt as we look forward to the longer, warmer days of summer. In Matthew 6:28–31, a simple and profound idea is presented: “And why do you ...
‘How can we make space and time to listen to God when we are always doing at least two things at once?’
Veronica Zundel looks at the lost art of ‘monotasking’ and how important it is for our relationship with God
I was 44 when I met my husband… here’s what God said to me in the waiting
Woman Alive’s deputy editor explains how she managed to keep trusting God when it felt like her prayers weren’t being answered.
How did the Black Death of the 1300s impact on people’s view of God - and how COVID has done the same in England
Author Andrea Sarginson explains the devastating effect the Black Death had on people’s faith in the 1300s and compares it to how people responded to the COVID pandemic.
Are we too afraid of death? Here’s what Christians should remember
Author of Living to Finish Well Marjie Sutton asks if we can face a fear of death by better understanding the glory of eternal life.
Flexitarianism might be a great approach to eating but in Christianity it is dangerous
Woman Alive's editor Tola Doll Fisher explains that as Christians, it's a bad idea for us to adopt a 'flexitarian' approach to faith.
What should I do if I want to become a Christian?
Philippa Cook offers practical advice to those who have decided they want to follow Jesus.
God provided us with furniture
Your stories of God’s intervention
Easter with Wintershall: Taking Jesus’ story to where people are
Thirty years on from the first staged play of The Passion of Jesus, Tola-Doll Fisher spoke with Charlotte de Klee, trustee and producer of Wintershall, the world-famous organisation responsible for staging award-winning productions that focus on the birth, life, death and resurrection of Jesus
A prayer for health
Witnessing my mum suffer from ill-health was a challenging experience. I prayed for her recovery many times. She remained cheerful and strong in spirit throughout her illness and I feel blessed to have witnessed her courage and grace.
When my son died I had to choose between clinging to Christ or abandoning him - I don't regret my decision
When Sarah Berger was faced with the most horrific bereavement she had to choose whether she would walk away from her faith or pull closer than ever into God. Here she explains her story.
The Asbury outpouring didn’t come out of nowhere - there were some key ingredients that paved the way for revival
Norwegian wife and mum Benedicte Mella, who lives in Kenya, went to visit Asbury University, because she heard of the revival and wanted to immerse herself in what the Holy Spirit was doing.
I gave birth with the help of the Holy Spirit
In 2015 I felt God tell me that I was going to have a girl, she was to be called Keziah Rose Grace and she was going to be born in Armenia (where we had just moved to). A year later I got pregnant, but had a miscarriage when the ...
Prayer & Reflection: Experiencing God’s guidance
It’s often said a problem shared is a problem solved, and who better to share concerns with than God? Through prayer and meditation, I have found much solace. In Joshua 1:9, we are encouraged to heed God’s commandment: “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, ...
I stayed in Asbury before the revival and I totally understand why God chose it to reveal the power of his Spirit
God sent Emily Emanuel to Asbury last year, six months before revival broke out. At the time she was disappointed but with hindsight she sees how he was working.
Your lent survival guide: from what to give/take up to top tips for when you feel like giving up
Today, the start of lent, writer Rachael Cottle shares what helps her successfully navigate 40 days of discipline and how she uses the time to bring her closer to Jesus.
This Lent, you should engage with famous film West Side Story - there are a lot of parallels to Jesus’ story
Authors Lavinia Byrne and Jane McBride has an unusual suggestion for connecting with God this Lent and it involves the classic musical.
This is the blessing that we offer to women who are worried about ageing
Authors of The Lives We Actually Lead, Kate Bowler and Jessica Richie, share a blessing for those who are concerned about ageing.
'The Holy Spirit saved my baby’s life' and other testimonies
Your stories of God’s intervention
Prayer & Reflection: Led by God’s love…together
Sinead Mcleod’s reflection and prayer for February
You can love Jesus and still be on a path to death - it’s time to choose life in its fullest
Author of Caught Between Life and Death, Lee Ann Assing, offers an important reminder to believers about what which paths lead to life in its fullness.
What type of Christian are you?
Veronica Zundel has created an intriguing way of classifying Christians, and challenges you to think about what description reflects you best
The power of the name of Jesus... and other testimonies
Your stories of God’s intervention in every day life
Five things I have learned about… women’s events
Cathy Madavan sniggered her way through the first event she attended that was focused on women, but today is full of praise for those done well. Here she shares the benefits she has enjoyed when meeting with a room full of other women
Prayer & Reflection: A time for rest and renewal
Sinead McLeod shares a thought and prayer, living with a sense of hope
A spiritual new year
Elaine Storkey shares the deeper, biblical significance of embracing a new beginning
A Christmas message from the editor: A year with God is better than a year without God
This year has been tough for many reasons, but here Tola Doll Fisher explains why we, as Christians, have a lot to celebrate.
If fewer than half the UK population are Christian… do they even deserve to celebrate Christmas?
In light of the news that 54 per cent of England and Wales do not describe themselves as Christian, writer Lauren Windle asks if it’s time to stop celebrating Christmas as a national holiday, and keep it as a Church event.
For some, Christmas piles on the pressure and prayer can become difficult… here are the Psalms I rely on in those times
If you’re feeling run down or stressed this Christmas, it can be hard to pray. Here writer Christina Schuetz offers six Psalms that she prays, when she doesn’t have the words herself.
My husband and I did a ten-day tour of the Holy Land, and I learned three important things
Pilgrimage is an incredible opportunity for spiritual growth and deeper connection with Jesus. Here, author Daniella Rushton shares the three most important things she learned on her trip to Jerusalem.
Stories of supernatural provision
Your stories of God’s intervention
Five things I have learned about… surviving Christmas
While many can feel overwhelmed by the festive season, Cathy Madavan gives us some great suggestions for how we can both embrace and enjoy Christmas this year.
A prayer for Christmas
Maxine Hallett reflects on Christmas, and gives us a prayer for the season.
This thanksgiving there's only one way our gratitude should be directed - when we stop thanking God we become miserable
Hannah Butler knows she has a lot to be grateful for as, in her teenage years she was homeless for a while. Here, she explains the role gratitude to God has in helping our mental and spiritual health and encourages all of us to say thank you to the Lord this Thanksgiving.
We're Millennials and Gen Zers, and God is reaching our generations - it's not as bleak as everyone always says
Writer Heather Tomlinson speaks to YouTuber Mikhaila Peterson and Instagrammer Jon McCray about getting the Christian message to younger people. And they are hopeful about the next generations.
'It is safe to grow old': A prayer for letting go of your younger self
For all of us, the idea of getting older, looking older and having your youngest years behind you is daunting. Here, Elizabeth Moore and Audrey Elledge, authors of Liturgies for Hope, share their prayer for letting go of your younger self.
We wrote a book of liturgy and this is our prayer for paying the bills when there’s not enough money
Many of us are struggling to make ends meet at the moment. Here, Elizabeth Moore and Audrey Elledge, authors of Liturgies for Hope, share their prayer for when there’s not enough money to pay the bills.
An American charity just launched a $100million advertising campaign to promote Jesus - and here’s what a Christian ad executive thinks of it
A Christian foundation in Kansas launched a $100million campaign called “He Gets Us”, to promote Jesus to the masses. Here, advertising copywriter Lizzie Hutchison shares her expert opinion on the pricey project.
Healed of long COVID after a spiritual curse lifted
Stories of God’s intervention
Will the average Christian woman please stand up?
Veronica Zundel has been a columnist for this magazine since 1982. Now, in what she calls her ‘autumn years’, she considers what has changed – or not - for Christian women
If your life is a mess there’s good news for you… God isn’t finished with you yet and he’s not giving up
Author Catherine Campbell explains how the Bible demonstrates God’s devotion to us and reassures us that, if it all feels like a mess, he’s not finished.
Remembering the Queen
Reflection and prayer with Maxine Hallett
Signs & Wonders in everyday life
Your stories of God’s intervention
In memory of the Queen at St Paul's Cathedral: ‘this nation’s unerring heartbeat’
At a special Service of Prayer and Reflection at St Paul’s Cathedral, London this evening, The Rt Rev and Rt Hon Dame Sarah Mullally DBE, Bishop of London, spoke of the Queen’s life of service, as well as our need to grieve. We share her sermon here.
How to pray for the Royal Family and give thanks for the Queen’s life, for those who are lost for words at this time
At a time when many of us feel overwhelmed and unsure how to respond to the sad news of the Queen’s death, spiritual director and the author of 7 Ways to Pray Amy Boucher Pye, shares some prayers that may bring us and her family some comfort.
The ten virgins: The importance of being prepared
Elaine Storkey explains who the ‘foolish virgins’ were and why their story is still so relevant to us today
Can you be an intellectual and believe in God at the same time?
Speaker, author, neuroscientist and apologist Sharon Dirckx shares her own journey to faith and explains why she believes we are more than just our brains
God is still speaking to us today
With a PhD in the theology and practice of hearing God’s voice, author Tania Harris asserts that he is still speaking to us in the same way he did to those in the New Testament
‘When I am kind to people, I feel better’
Veronica Zundel confesses to having moments when she feels like lashing out – and suspects she is not alone
If you feel constantly disappointed and hopeless, I’ve got a question for you
When writer Lauren Windle felt convinced that she should give up praying and hoping for some of the things she wanted in life, someone asked her a very simple question and it completely changed her mindset.
I’m singing my testimony
Mandisa Lynn Hundley’s award-winning singing career began on the fifth season of American Idol, where she finished in the top ten. She spoke to Damilola Okeke about the challenging seasons in her life and how they have impacted both her faith and music
‘The home is where life happens’
Jeannine Wiedmer spoke to Becky Hunter-Kelm about her passion to provide a safe place for young people, and the miraculous provision of their Youth Community Home
Tattoos for Jesus?
Youth With A Mission (YWAM) is a global mission organisation started in 1960 that today reaches out in more than 180 countries through training, mercy ministries and evangelism.There are many church partnerships working in recognisable mission activities such as teaching, food and clothing provision and evangelistic outreach. But what about a coffee and tattoo studio in the middle of London?
‘God still speaks to his people’
Pastor and prophet Preethy Kurian told Jemimah Wright the incredible story of how God called her, and how she believes revival is coming to the UK
Signs & Wonders in everyday life
Stories of God’s intervention
Complaining and comparison could be damaging your relationship with God - are you guilty of a lack of gratitude?
In a world where we’re all encouraged that “you do you”, author Elizabeth McQuoid explains that we’re not made to define our own identities but for glorious dependence on our loving creator.
Seeing afresh through the eyes of a child
July sees the end of the academic year – a relief to students finishing their exams but possibly daunting to children starting new schools in September
The different names we have for God tells us a lot about his character and how he feels about us
From the Shepherd to the Father, writer Rachel Peddar explains how the different names we have for God reveal more about his character and what they say about us too.
I challenged myself to do a biblical meditation for 30 days straight, and it transformed my relationship with God
Writer Macaila Britton was on the brink of burnout when she decided to embrace a month of Godly meditation. Here she explains how the experience changed her perspective on her relationship with the Father.
You are royalty, and if you’re ever unsure don’t forget God says it many times
We all feel low and worthless from time to time. But here, writer Lauren Crook explains that what the Bible says about us is far more important than what we say about ourselves.
Prayer and Reflection: Making room for Jesus
May is a good month for decluttering our cupboards and refreshing our wardrobes. I have fond memories as a child of my grandmother’s house, windows flung open as the warm, late spring breeze danced and glistened with particles of dust while cupboards were cleaned and wardrobes filled with summer clothes.
Finding Jesus at festivals this summer
Christian festivals are not just about big numbers. These events are spiritual refilling stations where we lose ourselves in worship and teaching. Here, we take a peek behind the scenes of Creation Fest and David’s Tent
Signs & Wonders in everyday life - May 2022
Stories of God’s intervention
God’s ways are not our ways
New York Times bestselling author Ann Voskamp is also a farmer’s wife and mum of seven. Seeing her sister killed in front of her eyes gave her unimaginable trauma. Here she speaks about the beauty and pain of life and how her writing draws her closer to the healing power of God
Five things you need to do if you want to work out God’s calling on your life
Do you struggle to know what God’s plan for you is or do you find yourself in a state of constant confusion? Here Lauren Crook shares five helpful tips for discovering God’s call for your life.
The impact of the cross
I wear a cross around my neck and often find myself touching it gently throughout the day, as a thought pops into my mind that I want to share with God. Other times I reach for the cross just to catch my breath, pausing in the middle of a busy ...
In conversation with a modern-day prophet
Emma Stark spoke to Jemimah Wright about being a prophet, and why she is passionate about the Church re-engaging with the Holy Spirit
Is there still a place for Christian Unions in schools?
Christian Unions are seen by some as legalistic, boring and irrelevant but CU leaders Chaplain Rev Alice Monaghan and English teacher Violet Taylor argue passionately that they need to continue
Creating safe spaces for women
God told Kelleigh Wooderson-Hudson to give up her job and start the charity Life Essence Housing. Here, she explains what she has learned about obedience
Signs & Wonders in everyday life - April 2022
Stories of God’s intervention
‘I’m beyond delighted that Nazanin’s finally home, but please remember the many women and children who are still held captive’
Restored CEO Bekah Legg prays that those living in captivity in the UK will experience the same joy as Nazanin as they find freedom and restoration
Rediscovering the meaning of the rainbow deepened my faith and brought me closer to God
When Theresa Grant had the idea to put the real meaning of the rainbow on a t-shirt, she never realised that it would affect her own faith, and be a tool to tell many about the love of God.
Prayer can greatly increase your relationship with God this Lent… and here’s how to do it like Jesus
This Lent, writer Amy Boucher Pye encourages us to explore the prayers of Jesus.
I spent years mourning infertility, even adopting didn’t take the pain away, until I realised something
Author Ellie Carter struggled to come to terms with not being able to have a baby with her husband, until she realised the part her faith had to play in her pain.
Six things you can take up for Lent to connect more deeply with God
Writer Rebecca Chamaa not only gives something up for Lent but also incorporates a new spiritual practice. Here, she suggests six things you may want to take up for the next 40 days.
My boyfriend encouraged me to explore Christianity but it was God’s words that convinced me
People often joke about the “flirt to convert” evangelism technique, but here Lillie Sutherland explains that even though her boyfriend encouraged her to explore faith, it was God’s words that convinced her to follow Jesus.
Prayer & Reflection: Spring at last!
Walking along a familiar path I stopped and breathed in the air around me, my senses suddenly becoming awakened by the newness of the spring day. I realised how thankful I was that God had carried me through the dark and dreary winter months.
‘Being Marilyn Monroe saved me during years of abuse’
Suzie Kennedy is an internationally renowned Marilyn Monroe lookalike who has flown all over the world to sing ‘Happy birthday’, attend parties and has featured in adverts and films alongside Hollywood stars. However, for over a period of almost 20 years, she was living under the dark shadow of sexual and domestic abuse
Bible Study on Lent: Jesus’ example in the wilderness
Elaine Storkey on how Lent reminds us to recognise the power of evil and to take sin seriously
There is power in forgiveness
For the final feature in her series on living free, Candy Ellie lays bare the far-reaching impact of stress-induced emotion
'God told me I had to forgive my mother'
Kemi Koleoso’s mum left when she was a child and her father remarried a woman who didn’t care for his children. She speaks with Claire Musters about the trauma she carried throughout her teenage years and encountering God in the midst of it all
A Romeo and Juliet love story
Ram and Sunita Gidoomal are from different castes (class systems), which meant those around them felt their relationship simply couldn’t work. They proved everyone wrong
Signs & Wonders in everyday life - March 2022
Stories of God’s intervention
How apps took me from a Sunday worshipper to a daily devoted Christian
Despite many feeling their phone is a barrier in their spiritual life, Rebecca Chamaa found a deeper connection to Jesus with the help of apps.
You are never alone
With Valentine’s Day fast approaching, romance is in the air. It is everywhere around us – in advertisements, retail shops and in the eyes of every couple passing by on the street. While this is beautiful to see, it can make some people feel alone and abandoned.
Let’s fly the flag for ‘old love’…
Veronica Zundel refuses to run after the thrill of the ‘new’, but values hard-won, deepening relationships
The house that God built
Clare Thompson leads the vibrant, social-action focused LoveBristol organisation with her husband Greg. She told Clare Blake why she loves living in a Christian community house
Married at 54: ‘I was willing to wait’
TV anchor Wendy Griffith dedicated a book to her future husband when she was still very much single. She explains how she discovered that ultimately, God is the best matchmaker
Signs & Wonders in everyday life - February 2022
Stories of God’s intervention
‘I was drawn into the subculture of alternative spirituality’
After years searching for hope within the occult, Talitha Colchester shares her story of finding Christ and his peace
Gratitude is difficult but it can completely shift your perspective
In our final blog looking at different ways to connect with God, Claire Musters shares how thankfulness has helped her in some difficult seasons.
The Daily Examen may sound intimidating but it's an amazing - and simple - way of connecting with God
In the next of our series on finding different ways to connect with God, Claire Musters shares how she came across the ancient practice of the Daily Examen and how she has come to value it.
Why I’m giving up guilt this new year
Rachel Pearce explores the difference between healthy and unhealthy guilt, and explains why she’ll be leaving the latter at the cross in 2022.
Praying for 'my one word' is an incredible tool, here's how you can ask God what yours is for 2022
In the first of a series of blogs during January looking at different ways to connect with God, Claire Musters shares how choosing one word to focus on each year has impacted her.
The Queen’s Speech: ‘Even with one familiar laugh missing this year, there will be joy in Christmas’
Nine million people tuned in to watch The Queen’s Speech on Christmas Day, making it the most-watched festive broadcast. A pre-speech leak had suggested that this year’s address would be a more personal affair than usual, and her majesty did not disappoint
Christmas isn’t over till January 6, here’s why you shouldn’t stop celebrating the birth of Jesus
If you’ve already started packing up your baubles and taking down the tealights, stop right there. Belle Tindall explains that Christmas lasts a full twelve days and it isn’t over yet.
No matter how bad the headlines get, in the news or in our lives, we’re called to pray
As many of us grapple with feelings of disappointment, uncertainty, fear and rejection, author Anne Le Tissier encourages us to pray with confidence, peace and faith in God who is for us, and not against us.
‘Singled Out in a Couple’s World’
Christa Smith spoke to Jemimah Wright about her new book, which aims to break the stigma of singleness
Looking to the year ahead
A stencil on my wall reads: “HOPE makes all things work and FAITH makes all things possible.” It is a constant reminder to me that there is only one way to turn my helplessness into hopefulness – by fixing my eyes on the Lord, breathing him in and inviting him ...
Five things I have learned about… setting goals
Cathy Madavan shares how she plans ahead in order to embrace a new season
Strange wisdom for 2022?
Elaine Storkey gives us four lessons from the perplexing book of Ecclesiastes
Our Queen: 70 years of faith and service
As we enter the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee, Catherine Butcher shares her discoveries about the Queen’s faith and invites us to join in with this year’s celebrations
Signs & Wonders in everyday life - January 2022
Stories of God’s intervention
The shepherds would have been dismissed as unreliable witnesses
Uncouth, unclean and tattily dressed, the shepards would have been the last people you’d want to vouch for you, and yet Jesus revealed himself to them first. Rosemary Hector reflects on the radical nature of the way Jesus came to earth.
Jesus doesn’t owe you happiness this Christmas… but he did come to be with you in the dark times
As Christians we can sometimes be tricked into believing that Jesus came to make us happy. Writer Rachael Newham explains how the prosperity gospel has crept into our thinking, when really Jesus’ promise is far greater.
Four ways to test whether you’ve heard God
Are you hearing from God or the enemy? Or are you simply listening to your own heart’s desires? Amy Boucher Pye shares her top tips for discerning the still, small voice of God.
Let your favourite carol speak to your heart this Christmas, invites The Salvation Army
Rebecca Goldsmith from the Salvation Army asks us to pause this Advent, and consider afresh the meaning of the well-loved carols we all sing during this season.
I took Jesus out of Christmas for my non-Christian friends and it opened up more opportunities to speak about him than ever
The concept of ‘Fake Christmas’ may sound a little sacrilegious, but Rachel Pearce found there was a lot more to it than mince pies and mulled wine.
Learning to live: my journey through cancer
Kate Nicholas on dealing with cancer returning and a near-death experience following her mastectomy
Five countries where being a woman and a Christian is dangerous
To mark International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women (November 25), Ben Cohen of the charity Open Doors UK & Ireland considers the shocking truth of what life is like for Christian women around the world
A prayer of thanks for our homes
A reader’s prayer by Julia Rudyard
Signs & Wonders in everyday life - December 2021
Stories of God’s intervention through the power of prayer
Cathy Madavan: Five things I have learned about… generosity
Cathy Madavan shows us how the five love languages provide a great guide to generosity
My life in a convent
When you hear the word ‘nun’ what do you think of? Sister Act or Julie Andrews in the iconic Sound of Music? If these are your benchmarks the reality may well disappoint. However, there are many delightful insights to discover about the religious life. Caroline Leighton spent some time as a postulant in a religious community and lifts the lid on what it was like
In Business: Your body is a temple
Templespa owner and co-founder, Liz Warom, reveals how she and her husband started their business, and how faith is at the centre of all they do
Home is...a place to belong
Elaine Storkey unpacks what the Bible says about the significance of our homes
‘I had made peace with dying, but the thought of being crippled was harder’
After 15 years of a progressively debilitating illness, John Mark Comer’s wife, Tammy, was supernaturally healed from a curse last year. She talked to Jemimah Wright about her journey
‘My ex-husband bit off my nose, cut off my ear and carved up my face like a cabbage in an attempt to slit my throat’
Make this International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women (25 November) count, urges Abbie Mumbi
Giving thanks this Thanksgiving
The woman behind the popular Woman Alive Book Club, Amy Boucher Pye, is an American living in England. Here she shares her memories of Thanksgiving, and encourages us all to take some time today to think about the things we can be grateful to God for
‘Suicidal thoughts are nothing to be ashamed of, but they do need to be taken seriously’
Research from Menopause Experts Group highlights a rise in suicide rates for women aged 45 to 54 – the age when most women experience perimenopause and menopause. Dr Kate Middleton explains why and offers practical coping strategies
‘Idols aren’t just inanimate objects. Mine was a garden’
Holly Satterthwaite shares how identifying and killing the idols in our lives puts God back in the driving seat and makes us better witnesses of Christ’s love
‘As far as I was concerned, affairs were for characters in soaps and films, not Christian marriages!’
Babs Bray felt great compassion for Alice Evans when the news of husband Ioan Gruffudd’s alleged infidelity broke. Despite Babs’s heartbreak after her ex-husband’s affair came to light, she was determined to forgive her ex and do the right thing
‘Sadly, bullying seems to be part of our human journey’
Kate Neal says the growth of social media seems to have created a society in which bullying is more prevalent than ever before, with devastating and even life-altering effects
‘Would I lose my other ovary? Would I lose my hair? Would I lose my life?’
Tola-Doll Fisher felt devastated when cancer resurfaced after a large tumour had been removed from her uterus. But a brave decision gave her a peace that surpassed earthly understanding
‘Time is running out at COP26’
Alice Corrie, technical and communications officer for Climate Stewards, spent this week at the climate summit – and is more convinced than ever that much of the change needed will have to come from us
‘No Blacks, no Jews, no women above the fourth floor’: Why, despite its shocking characters I’m still watching this hit US TV show
Succession has just been renewed for a fourth season and everyone is talking about it. Our editor Tola-Doll Fisher unpicks why she finds it so compelling
5 important reminders about marriage from Hailey and Justin Bieber
Whatever you think of them talking about their marriage on a podcast, Justin and Hailey have shared some important lessons, says Claire Musters
Young people really do want us to talk to them about sex
Rachel Gardner urges us to get over our embarrassment and fear of saying the wrong thing, because we have a vital role in helping to shape young people’s attitudes towards relationships and sex
‘Adoption was our first choice’
On World Adoption Day, Chrissi Pegg shares the story of how she and her husband came to adopt their two daughters
Why we walked to Glasgow ahead of COP26
Would you walk 1,200 miles to get people talking about the environmental and financial implications of climate change? That’s exactly what Rachel Mander and a team from Young Christian Climate Network (YCCN) did ahead of the all-important Glasgow summit
‘When I was younger I wanted to be like Trevor McDonald or Moira Stuart and tell everyone about important things’
Premier Christian Radio’s director of content, Charmaine Noble-McLean was awarded a Fellowship by The Radio Academy during this week’s Radio Academy Festival. We honour her contribution to radio and hear exclusively from Charmaine about why she loves this particular medium
What would you give up for love?
As Japan’s Princess Mako has turned her back on her royal status in order to marry, Ola Awonubi looks at how the desire to be married has impacted Christian women’s lives
Fertility leave may help couples who are struggling to conceive
During National Fertility Awareness Week (1-5 November) we look at how employers are beginning to recognise the need to support those experiencing fertility issues – it is time the Church did the same
‘No one can promise you a husband. No one can even promise you a text back’
Lauren Windle looks at the growing market for love coaches and considers the impact for Christian women
‘Let’s not sit in the dark this Halloween’
Is it a trick or is it a treat? Rachel Pearce explores whether the opportunities Halloween presents outweigh the fears many Christians have about celebrating this contentious festival
What is COP26 and why should we care?
Liz Earle explains why she is lending her voice to fight climate change and global poverty, and why she is passionate about empowering women around the world
Poem for Remembrance Day
A reader poem
Signs & Wonders in everyday life - November 2021
Stories of God’s intervention
Bamboozled by Jesus
Cassandra Nelson from Premier Gospel caught up with actress and comedian Yvonne Orji about her new book, dating while celibate and the rise to fame
How do I respond as a Christian if my enemy wants to kill me?
Ella Bartelsian of Yerevan International Church, Armenia, spoke to Clare Blake about how God is breaking through to a defeated nation
‘We play a significant role in far too many wars’
Elaine Storkey reminds us of that we should seek the peace that Jesus gives, for all of us
How did my grandparents survive the war?
Maxine Hallett reflects on the desperation and determination of her ancestors
We mustn’t forget the women of Afghanistan
As news outlets move on to other stories, the plight of Afghan women remains precarious. Alastair McIver urges us to check our own responses, seek out truth – and, above all, remain hopeful
‘I was once a prisoner behind bars and then became a visitor of prisons sharing the good news’
During Prisons Week (10–16 October), Trudy Makepeace shares her journey from addict and prisoner to outreach worker
‘The pain of miscarriage was probably worse than full-term labour pains’
To mark Baby Loss Awareness Week (9-15 October) Tammy Tunnah shares about her traumatic miscarriage and how mentally agonising her next pregnancy was, and we look at the place of art therapy in processing baby loss
‘Violence against women is a chronic situation that must be rejected’
Hannah Baylor says it is time for ‘women to claim their worth’ and ‘men to challenge and change their own, and other men’s, behaviour’
On World Mental Health Day: ‘We must be careful not to offer a false hope of: “Come to Jesus and all of your problems will disappear”’
Natalie Williams reminds us that there is hope in Christ and practical help for those who need it – highlighting those with mental health issues who are living in poverty
Sexual soul ties are real - and dangerous
The time of year when singles rush to couple up ahead of winter – known as ‘cuffing’ – is upon us. However, Candy-Ellie Graham warns us that it isn’t worth cuddling up to just anyone
‘Poetry speaks into my pain’
As we celebrate National Poetry Day, poet Liz Carter explains how reading and writing poetry has helped her in the darkest moments of her chronic illness
Five things I have learned about… processing the past
Seasoned author Cathy Madavan suggests that, whatever our history, we can learn from it and move on
What it means to be black British
TV and radio personality Diane Louise Jordan talked to Jeannette McCarthy about her new project The Making of Black Britain
Signs & Wonders in everyday life - October 2021
Stories of God’s intervention in our daily life
Clues from the past
Maxine Hallett grew up not going to church but, looking back at her family history, is inspired by her great grandfather
Reaching out to women in prostitution
From childhood loss to founding the Beloved charity reaching out to those in prostitution, Rosie Hopley shares her life’s journey through deep lows and great joy
‘I’ve forgiven the men who murdered our son and now spend time visiting others in prisons’
Lyn Connolly shares why she is now involved in prison work
Coping with overnight fame: five prayers for Emma Raducanu
Alastair McIver explores what lies ahead for British tennis champion Emma Raducanu
Prayers for an answer as police investigate new Claudia Lawrence lead
Could the police’s latest efforts to find out what happened to Claudia Lawrence be the answer to her mother’s prayers on International Day of the Disappeared?
‘As God’s daughter I know that I am a work in progress’
‘As God’s daughter I know that I am a work in progress’’God has helped me embrace the identity of the person he knew from the moment he created me’Maxine Hallett shares how she found her identity in Christ, and how she prays her children will too
From atheism to faith
Three women from the world of science explain how they came to embrace Christian faith
Five things I have learned about… being yourself
Seasoned author Cathy Madavan explains how she has come to accept who she is – and how we can do the same
'Christian identity is always linked with Jesus’ identity’
Elaine Storkey explains that our security lies in our relationship with the God who made us and knows us
Signs & Wonders in everyday life - September 2021
Stories of God’s intervention
When I don’t know who I am
Reader prayer - September 2021
‘My faith gives everything context and meaning’
Five-time world record holder Stef Reid says her Christian faith has made life more of an adventure. She is excited about competing in Tokyo, in what will be her fourth Paralympic Games
Learning from my Muslim friends
Rachel Pieh Jones has lived among Muslims in both Somaliland and Djibouti. Here she tells Jemimah Wright how much they have taught her about faith
‘I’m staying home this summer’
Editorial from July 2021
Spiritual journalling
Maxine Hallett encourages us to record how we are feeling, what we are learning and the prayers that God is answering
Invited on a journey of discovery
Elizabeth Neep, commissioning editor at SPCK, explains the idea behind new spiritual formation imprint, Form
Navigating change
As the final lockdown restrictions are about to lifted, Sarah Yardley shares with us some of the lessons she has learned through many life-altering changes
A week of summer fun
Current leader, Glenys Adams describes how Camps for Girls started, and what it is like to attend
Faith in their futures
Emma Borquaye, the founder of Girl Got Faith, encourages us to help the teenagers in our lives have confidence in who God has made them to be
‘My daughter has been in a coma for nearly six months’
Karen Young shares candidly about the excruciatingly difficult journey her family is currently on, and reflects on what she has learned about those moments when God says: “Not yet.”
Is it time to pray differently?
Have you always prayed the same way? Author Sarah Bessey believes we can learn something from Christians who pray differently to us.
'I was pregnant with my 5th child when my marriage and ministry fell apart'
Karen Allen reached a tipping point in her life when she told God she couldn't do ministry anymore. Her marriage of 14 years had suddenly ended and she found herself pregnant with her 5th child. A close friend spoke into her life and changed things. Here is some of what Karen shared with Premier radio presenter Maria Rodrigues
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