Encountering You

Transition to Facebook

2011-09-09T19:37:00.002-04:00

Hello ENCOUNTER fans! We will no longer be updating the blog. Instead, we will be posting on our Facebook page.

Fluff also has his own Facebook page now.

Please head on over to Facebook and "like" us!

Be Smooth

2011-08-28T19:01:00.002-04:00

Has God softened your edges through a trial? Share your experiences in a comment on this post.

ENCOUNTER article: "The Smoothness of Sea Glass"
article author: Emily Downs
magazine: August 28, 2011 issue of ENCOUNTER

Crisis Alert

2011-08-23T11:57:00.002-04:00

How do you deal with crises in your life? Share your experiences, ideas, and thoughts in a comment on this post.

ENCOUNTER article: "Why Do I Hurt So Much?"
article author: Irene S. Roth
magazine: August 21, 2011 issue of ENCOUNTER

The Help Factor

2011-08-12T12:36:00.003-04:00

How well do you help others? Share your quiz results and thoughts about helping in a comment on this post.

ENCOUNTER article: "They Hurt—Are You Helping?"
article author: Anne Williman
magazine: August 14, 2011 issue of ENCOUNTER

Trusting God in Tough Times

2011-08-08T13:20:00.002-04:00

Have you had to deal with a life-altering hardship? How did you experience God's love during that time? Share your experiences in a comment on this post.

ENCOUNTER article: "Shouted Love"
article author: Kate Massot
magazine: August 7, 2011 issue of ENCOUNTER

Internet Time

2011-07-29T11:59:00.002-04:00

What's your "net" score? Share your quiz results and thoughts about the quiz in a comment on this post.

ENCOUNTER article: "Do You Bring Balance to the Internet?"
article author: Jaclyn S. Miller
magazine: July 31, 2011 issue of ENCOUNTER

Good Music

2011-07-27T17:03:00.002-04:00

How do you decide which music to listen to and which to avoid? Share your thoughts in a comment on this post.

ENCOUNTER article: "Making Good Music Choices"
article author: Amy Simon
magazine: July 24, 2011 issue of ENCOUNTER

God in the Movies

2011-07-18T11:23:00.003-04:00

In what ways have you seen biblical themes in movies? Share your thoughts in a comment on this post.

ENCOUNTER article: "God the Father, God the Screenwriter?"
article author: John Cosper
magazine: July 17, 2011 issue of ENCOUNTER

What in the World?

2011-07-10T23:35:00.003-04:00

How aware are you of what's going on in the world? Take this week's quiz to find out, and share your results in a comment on this post.

ENCOUNTER article: "Do You Know What's Up?"
article author: Anne Williman
magazine: July 10, 2011 issue of ENCOUNTER

You Can Be a Disciple

2011-07-10T23:33:00.002-04:00

How will you begin--or continue--your discipleship journey? Share your ideas in a comment on this post.

ENCOUNTER article: "More Than Packing Peanuts"
article author: Tekoa Miller
magazine: July 3, 2011 issue of ENCOUNTER

Popsicle Time!

2011-07-10T23:23:00.002-04:00

What's your flavor? Share your quiz results in a comment on this post.

ENCOUNTER article: "What Flavor Popsicle Are You?"
article author: Katrina Cassel
magazine: June 26, 2011 issue of ENCOUNTER

You Gotta Have Faith

2011-06-21T10:47:00.002-04:00

What do you do when unexpected difficulties wash over your life? Share your ideas in a comment on this post.

ENCOUNTER article: "Faith--A Lifeboat in the Storm"
article author: Candy Arrington
magazine: June 19, 2011 issue of ENCOUNTER

Super Size It!

2011-06-21T10:44:00.002-04:00

Jesus really amazed His disciples when He was able to feed so many with so little food. How has He amazed you? Share your experiences in a comment on this post.

ENCOUNTER article: "Super-Sized Lunch"
article author: Jennifer Kvamme
magazine: June 12, 2011 issue of ENCOUNTER

Differences

2011-06-06T10:57:00.002-04:00

We are all different in many ways. How do you deal with differences? Share your ideas in a comment on this post.

ENCOUNTER article: "Different from Me"
article author: Deborah Christensen
magazine: June 5, 2011 issue of ENCOUNTER

God's Family

2011-06-06T10:50:00.003-04:00

Josh learned the benefits of being part of the family of God when his friend Mr. Stels got sick. How have you experienced the benefits of God's family? Tell us about your experiences in a comment on this post.

ENCOUNTER article: "Man Time"
article author: Kasie LaFramboise
magazine: May 29, 2011 issue of ENCOUNTER

Help in Trials

2011-06-06T10:45:00.003-04:00

God helped Christian and his family get through his dad's heart attack. How has God helped you trough trials? Share your experiences in a comment on this post.

ENCOUNTER article: "This Wasn't Supposed to Happen"
article author: Christian Hanscome
magazine: May 22, 2011 issue of ENCOUNTER

Peacemaker or Not?

2011-05-16T10:55:00.002-04:00

Take a look at this week's quiz to figure out if you're a peacemaker or not. Let us know your quiz results and thoughts in a comment on this post.

ENCOUNTER article: "Are You a Family Peacemaker?"
article author: Christina Dotson
magazine: May 15, 2011 issue of ENCOUNTER

Whoops!

2011-05-09T11:19:00.002-04:00

Have you ever said anything that didn't go over well with your parents?

Share your stories in a comment on this post.

ENCOUNTER article: "Seven Things Not to Say to Your Parents"
article author: Anne Williman
magazine: May 8, 2011 issue of ENCOUNTER

The Parent Factor

2011-05-09T11:14:00.003-04:00

Do you have any tips for your fellow teens about how they can get along with their parents?

Share your thoughts in a comment on this blog.

ENCOUNTER article: "Who Needs Them Anyway?"
article author: Katrina Cassel
magazine: May 1, 2011 issue of ENCOUNTER

Jesus Is the Way

2011-05-09T11:11:00.002-04:00

What difference has Jesus made in your life?

Share your experiences in a comment on this post.

ENCOUNTER article: "One Way"
article author: Jennifer M. Kvamme
magazine: April 24, 2011 issue of ENCOUNTER

Knowing Jesus

2011-04-20T17:24:00.003-04:00

When did Jesus become real to you? Tell us about it on a comment on this post?

ENCOUNTER article: "Knowing Jesus"
article author: Tammy Darling
magazine: April 17, 2011 issue of ENCOUNTER

The Greatest Miracle

2011-04-20T17:10:00.002-04:00

In what ways have you experienced Christ's resurrection power? Share your story in a comment on this post.

ENCOUNTER article: "A Miracle Greater Than Spring"
article author: Kate Massot
magazine: April 10, 2011 issue of ENCOUNTER

WWJL?

2011-03-25T20:31:00.004-04:00

What are some ways you've stepped out of your comfort zone to show love to others? Tell us about it in a comment on this post.

ENCOUNTER article: "Who Would Jesus Love?"
article author: Kathleen Christian
magazine: March 27, 2011 issue of ENCOUNTER

It's Not Whether You Win or Lose ...

2011-03-19T14:29:00.001-04:00

When have you seen a fantastic, Christlike display of sportsmanship? Tell us about it in a comment on this post.

ENCOUNTER article: "How I Play the Game"
article author: Heather Klassen
magazine: March 20, 2011 issue of ENCOUNTER

The Loving Truth

2011-03-12T18:52:00.007-05:00

Some people are good at speaking truth, and others would rather gloss things over or ignore controversial subjects altogether. But when it all comes down, we need to be able to not only speak the truth, but to speak it in love. Have you ever had to speak the truth to a friend about his or her sin? Tell us about your experience in a comment on this post.

ENCOUNTER article: "Truth Spoken in Love"
article author: Martha Willey
magazine: March 13, 2011 issue of ENCOUNTER

It's All About the Team

2011-03-12T18:49:00.003-05:00

Everybody's on some kind of a team, and everybody has a different role to play. How well are you at filling your role while not trying to overshadow the others? Share your results and thoughts about this week's quiz in a comment on this post.

ENCOUNTER article: "Are You a Team Player?"
article author: Katrina Cassel
magazine: March 6, 2011 issue of ENCOUNTER

Who Would You Choose?

2011-02-20T19:06:00.003-05:00

It's hard when a friend or family member tries to make us choose between them and someone—or something—else. But have you ever had to choose between someone and God? If so, how did you deal with it? Tell us about your experience in a comment on this post.

ENCOUNTER article: "Choose"
article author: Susan Uhlig
magazine: February 20, 2011 issue of ENCOUNTER

Changes

2011-02-11T12:02:00.002-05:00

How has God's Word changed you? Share your experiences in a comment on this post.

ENCOUNTER article: "Seeking Change"
article author: Melissa Hill
magazine: February 13, 2011 issue of ENCOUNTER

Church-i-tude???

2011-02-04T17:56:00.002-05:00

What's your attitude about church? Share your quiz results and thoughts in a comment on this post.

ENCOUNTER article: "What's Your Church-i-tude?"
article author: Katrina Cassel
magazine: February 6, 2011 issue of ENCOUNTER

Do Over

2011-01-30T14:08:00.003-05:00

Have you ever needed a "do over"? Tell us about your experience in a comment on this post.

ENCOUNTER article: "Do Over?"
article author: Karen Leet
magazine: January 30, 2011 issue of ENCOUNTER

Generosity Quiz

2011-01-24T12:23:00.002-05:00

How generous are you? Share your quiz results in a comment on this post.

ENCOUNTER article: "Judge Your Generosity"
article author: Christina Dotson
magazine: January 23, 2011 issue of ENCOUNTER

It's Hard to Be Humble

2011-01-17T11:18:00.003-05:00

After reading this week's feature article, do you see any of those obstacles to humility in yourself? Are there other obstacles in your life? Tell us about them in a comment on this post.

ENCOUNTER article: "Humility: A Work in Progress"
article author: Esther M. Bailey
magazine: January 16, 2011 issue of ENCOUNTER

Who Are You?

2011-01-10T11:36:00.003-05:00

Megan's poem tells us a lot about not only what she looks like and what her personality is like, but who she is in Christ. What words would you use to describe yourself?

ENCOUNTER article: "I'm Megan"
article author: Megan Abernathy (age 15)
magazine: January 9, 2011 issue of ENCOUNTER

It's Powerful!

2011-01-02T23:53:00.003-05:00

Have you experienced "spiritual adrenaline," like that described in this week's feature article?

Share your experiences in a comment on this post.

ENCOUNTER article: "Spiritual Adrenaline"
article author: Kate Massot
magazine: January 2, 2011 issue of ENCOUNTER

Oranges and the Body of Christ

2010-12-19T11:43:00.005-05:00

The body of Christ is absolutely amazing, and YOU play a part in it. Check out this week's featured article to see what oranges have to do with it. (What??)

Consider the questions included in the article, and share your answers in a comment on this post.

ENCOUNTER article: "Lessons from a Christmas Orange"
article author: Jaclyn S. Miller
magazine: December 26, 2010 issue of ENCOUNTER

Christmas Budgeting

2010-12-12T22:50:00.003-05:00

Jaclyn gave us some great ideas for how to spend less on Christmas presents ... and be creative in the process. How do you stretch your dollars at Christmas time?

Share your ideas in a comment on this post.

ENCOUNTER article: "Great Gifts That Give Your Budget a Break"
article author: Jaclyn S. Miller
magazine: December 12, 2010 issue of ENCOUNTER

Keeping Christ in Christmas

2010-12-03T12:13:00.002-05:00

The teens interviewed for today's feature article told ways they make room for Christ during the hectic Christmas season. What are some ways you make room for Him during December?

Share your thoughts, experiences, and ideas in a comment on this post.

ENCOUNTER article: "Making Room for the Savior"
article author: Jennifer Dunning
magazine: December 5, 2010 issue of ENCOUNTER

Contentment Quiz

2010-11-27T22:58:00.003-05:00

How do you view your trials? Are they something to complain about, or do you see them as a way to cultivate contentment in your life?

Share your quiz results in a comment on this post.

ENCOUNTER article: "Are You Traveling Toward Contentment?"
article author: Kim Peterson & Jaclyn S. Miller
magazine: November 28, 2010 issue of ENCOUNTER

Tips for Contentment

2010-11-22T12:09:00.002-05:00

Like Karri, are you content with what you have until you see that someone else has something better? How do you deal with discontentment?

Share your thoughts in a comment on this post.

ENCOUNTER article: "The Choice of Contentment"
article author: Candy Arrington
magazine: November 21, 2010 issue of ENCOUNTER

Green with Envy

2010-11-15T10:03:00.002-05:00

How do you deal with envy?

Share your thoughts in a comment on this post.

ENCOUNTER article: "Seeing Green"
article author: Tammy Darling
magazine: November 14, 2010 issue of ENCOUNTER

To forgive ...

2010-11-07T18:33:00.003-05:00

... or not to forgive ... there is no question. God's Word clearly states that we are supposed to forgive, but it's not always easy. Why do you sometimes avoid forgiving others?

Share your thoughts in a comment on this post.

ENCOUNTER article: "The Choice of Forgiveness"
article author: Candy Arrington
magazine: November 7, 2010 issue of ENCOUNTER

One Small Action

2010-10-29T12:01:00.003-04:00

Kendall took one small action that led to starting her own nonprofit organization that helps numerous kids in Africa. What small action might you take that could make a difference in the world?

Share your ideas and experiences in a comment on this post.

ENCOUNTER article: "No Limits: Kendall Ciesemier"
article author: Ronica Stromberg
magazine: October 31, 2010 issue of ENCOUNTER

Peer Pressure

2010-10-25T12:34:00.003-04:00

How much influence do you let your friends have in your life? Share your thoughts and quiz results in a comment on this post.

ENCOUNTER article: "How Well Do You Handle Peer Pressure?"
article author: Katrina Cassel
magazine: October 24, 2010 issue of ENCOUNTER

Seasons Change

2010-10-15T12:23:00.002-04:00

Different times and experiences in our lives can reflect the changing of seasons. How have you seen this happen in your life?

ENCOUNTER article: "A New Season"
article author: Tammy Darling
magazine: October 17, 2010 issue of ENCOUNTER

Hey Seniors!

2010-10-11T19:39:00.003-04:00

What would you add to Kailey's Top 10 List for Seniors?

ENCOUNTER article: "Top 10 List for Seniors"
article author: Kailey Moore
magazine: October 10, 2010 issue of ENCOUNTER

Accountability

2010-10-04T14:55:00.002-04:00

How do you and your friends keep each other accountable?

Share your experiences and ideas in a comment on this post.

ENCOUNTER article: "1+1"
article author: Elizabeth Matko
magazine: October 3, 2010 issue of ENCOUNTER

Fruity Quiz

2010-09-26T21:32:00.002-04:00

Which fruits of the Spirit are hard or easy for you?

Share your results and thoughts in a comment on this post.

ENCOUNTER article: "Is Your Life Fruit Filled?"
article author: Anne Williman
magazine: September 26, 2010 issue of ENCOUNTER

The Mighty Tongue

2010-09-20T09:57:00.003-04:00

Do you have any tips for how to keep your tongue in check?

Share your experiences and ideas in a comment on this post.

ENCOUNTER article: "The Care and Keeping of a Tongue"
article author: Katrina Cassel
magazine: September 19, 2010 issue of ENCOUNTER

Playing Favorites

2010-09-10T04:52:00.002-04:00

Do you have a problem with favoritism? How have you seen favoritism in action?

Share your experiences and observations in a comment on this post.

ENCOUNTER article: "A Winning Combination"
article author: Cynthia Roemer
magazine: September 12, 2010 issue of ENCOUNTER

Sneaky Selfishness

2010-09-03T06:00:00.002-04:00

Selfishness can show itself in all kinds of ways. In what ways do you find yourself battling selfishness?

ENCOUNTER article: "Deceptive Immunity"
article author: Lyndi L. Markus
magazine: September 5, 2010 issue of ENCOUNTER

Missionaries Don't Work Alone

2010-08-28T08:37:00.002-04:00

What are some ways you can support missionaries you or someone in your church knows?

Share your experiences and ideas in a comment on this post.

ENCOUNTER article: "Ways to Support a Missionary"
article author: Amy Simon
magazine: August 29, 2010 issue of ENCOUNTER

Making a Difference

2010-08-21T17:22:00.002-04:00

How are you making a difference in your community, in your country, or in the world (or how do you plan to)?

Share your experiences and plans in a comment on this post.

ENCOUNTER article: "How I'm Making a Difference"
article author: Tammy Darling
magazine: August 22, 2010 issue of ENCOUNTER

Time to Grow!

2010-08-15T19:26:00.002-04:00

What are some things you do to help you grow in your faith?

Share your ideas in a comment on this post.

ENCOUNTER article: "Simple Ways to Stretch Your Faith"
article author: Jaclyn S. Miller
magazine: August 15, 2010 issue of ENCOUNTER

How's Your Work Ethic?

2010-08-06T13:07:00.003-04:00

Are you a "super-employee" or do you need to work on your work ethic a little?

Talk about your quiz results in a comment on this post.

ENCOUNTER article: "What Kind of Employee Are You?"
article author: Anne Williman
magazine: August 8, 2010 issue of ENCOUNTER

It's Time to Pray!

2010-08-01T12:31:00.002-04:00

Do you have any advice on how to keep prayer a priority?

Share your ideas in a comment on this post.

ENCOUNTER article: "Prayer Dropout"
article author: Katrina Cassel
magazine: August 1, 2010 issue of ENCOUNTER

Growing in God

2010-07-25T22:35:00.002-04:00

What helps you grow in your relationship with God?

Share your thoughts in a comment on this post.

ENCOUNTER article: "The Plant Killer"
article author: Sandi Brown
magazine: July 25, 2010 issue of ENCOUNTER

God's Grace

2010-07-19T11:27:00.002-04:00

How have other people shown God's grace to you?

Tell us about your experience in a comment on this post.

ENCOUNTER article: "You're Invited!"
article author: Kathiann M. Kowalski
magazine: July 18, 2010 issue of ENCOUNTER

It's About Relationships

2010-07-11T18:21:00.003-04:00

In this week's article, Brian was able to reach out to a friend and tell her about Jesus because of his close friendship with her. Like Brian, have you ever had a long-term friendship where you were able to share Jesus with someone?

Tell us about your experience in a comment on this post.

ENCOUNTER article: "Red"
article author: Brian Coates
magazine: July 11, 2010 issue of ENCOUNTER

Sorry!

2010-07-09T12:03:00.002-04:00

Doesn’t it feel good after you tell someone sorry? The process is awkward, but the result is nice.

Tell us about an experience you've had with asking forgiveness in a comment on this post.

ENCOUNTER article: "Sorry!"
article author: Kelly Klepfer
magazine: July 4, 2010 issue of ENCOUNTER

Don't Break Under Pressure

2010-06-25T16:09:00.002-04:00

In today's article, Marita had to ignore peer pressure in order to keep her integrity. Has that ever happened to you?

Tell us about your experience in a comment on this post.

ENCOUNTER article: "Winners"
article author: Heather Klassen
magazine: June 27, 2010 issue of ENCOUNTER

Proud to Be Humble?

2010-06-18T12:41:00.003-04:00

Take the quiz and see where you land on the scale of proud to humble.

Share your results and thoughts in a comment on this post.

ENCOUNTER article: "Proud to Be Humble?"
article author: Anne Williman
magazine: June 20, 2010 issue of ENCOUNTER

Putting the Gospel into Action

2010-06-11T13:45:00.003-04:00

The guys in MIKESCHAIR put the gospel into action through supporting various ministries and missions. How are you—and others around you—showing compassion to the world?

Share your thoughts in a comment on this post.

ENCOUNTER article: "MIKESCHAIR: Putting the Gospel into Action"
article author: Christy Barritt
magazine: June 13, 2010 issue of ENCOUNTER

Are You a Phony?

2010-06-06T17:01:00.002-04:00

Take the quiz and see how authentic you are.

Share your results and thoughts in a comment on this post.

ENCOUNTER article: "Are You a Phony?"
article author: Christina Dotson
magazine: June 6, 2010 issue of ENCOUNTER

The Challenge

2010-06-01T00:10:00.002-04:00

By giving away just a dollar a day, you can make an impact on the world. Will you take the challenge?

Share your thoughts and experiences in a comment on this post.

ENCOUNTER article: "$1 a Day"
article author: Sandi Brown
magazine: May 30, 2010 issue of ENCOUNTER

Truth and Consequences

2010-05-22T22:38:00.003-04:00

Erik and Dean made a silly decision that had some bad (and potentially harmful) consequences. When have you done something that wasn't so smart? What happened? How did you deal with it?

Share your thoughts in a comment on this post.

ENCOUNTER article: "It's Not My Fault"
article author: Erik Kalstead (as told to Christy Heitger)
magazine: May 23, 2010 issue of ENCOUNTER

Draw Close to God

2010-05-16T15:00:00.004-04:00

A near-death experience due to a motorcycle accident caused Miles to draw closer to God. What events or circumstances in your life have drawn you closer to god?

Share your thoughts in a comment on this post.

ENCOUNTER article: "A Race Against Death"
article author: Miles (as told to Muriel Larson)
magazine: May 16, 2010 issue of ENCOUNTER

Stressed Out?

2010-04-28T11:49:00.003-04:00

It's that time of year again—school is winding down. You have papers, finals, and possibly graduation preparation to take care of. You may also be involved in sports, and many of you are trying to nail down a summer job. All of that can add up to a lot of stress! Take the quiz in the May 2 issue of ENCOUNTER—The Magazine to see how well you're handling the stress.

Share your quiz results in a comment on this post.

ENCOUNTER article: "Stressed Out? Take the Candy Quiz"
article author: Katrina Cassel
magazine: May 2, 2010 issue of ENCOUNTER

In the Heart of the Storm

2010-04-23T12:02:00.002-04:00

The author of this story found peace from God in the midst of a storm. What kinds of storms—both real and emotional—have you made it through with God's help?

Leave a comment to share your thoughts.

ENCOUNTER article: "A Storm Story"
article author: Karen M. Leet
magazine: April 25, 2010 issue of ENCOUNTER

Prom Alert!

2010-04-19T11:27:00.002-04:00

Prom can really hit your wallet hard. What are some ways you've found to save money on the big day?

Leave a comment to share your thoughts.

ENCOUNTER article: "Prom for Pennies"
article author: Jaclyn S. Miller
magazine: April 18, 2010 issue of ENCOUNTER

He Is Risen!

2010-04-02T13:10:00.002-04:00

What does Easter mean to you?

Leave a comment to share your thoughts.

ENCOUNTER article: "Men of Courage, Men of Doubt"
article author: Jennifer Kvamme
magazine: April 4 , 2010 issue of ENCOUNTER

Making a List

2010-03-28T13:28:00.002-04:00

What qualities are you looking for in a boyfriend or girlfriend?

Leave a comment to share your thoughts.

ENCOUNTER article: "The List"
article author: Brian Coates
magazine: March 28, 2010 issue of ENCOUNTER

Don't Fear Purity

2010-03-20T13:01:00.003-04:00

Alyssa opened her heart to let you know her view and thoughts on purity.

Leave a comment and share your own thoughts.

ENCOUNTER article: "God Held My Purity"
article author: Alyssa Mann
magazine: March 21, 2010 issue of ENCOUNTER

A Lesson About Respect

2010-03-12T16:57:00.002-05:00

Christy said some pretty rude things to a boy and immediately regretted her words. Like her, have you had to learn a lesson about respect the hard way?

Leave a comment and share your thoughts.

ENCOUNTER article: "Wicked Words"
article author: Christy Heitger
magazine: March 14, 2010 issue of ENCOUNTER

Who decides your view on love?

2010-03-06T13:03:00.003-05:00

Who decides your view on love?
Is it the media?
Is it the author of a book?
Is it your friends?
Is it your mood?
OR is it God?

Leave a comment and let us know what God has taught you about true love.

ENCOUNTER article: "Love Decided"
article author: Martha Willey
magazine: Marcy 7, 2010 issue of ENCOUNTER

How are you serving?

2010-02-24T23:22:00.002-05:00

Abby Phillips used her time, abilities, and finances to help build a medical clinic for orphans in Mexico. In what ways are you striving to serve others and serve Jesus?

Leave a comment and share your thoughts.

ENCOUNTER article: "Showing Love on the Mission Field and at Home"
article author: Tanya L. Wells
magazine: February 28, 2010 issue of ENCOUNTER

What's in your way?

2010-02-19T21:04:00.003-05:00

Tasha was committed to God, but she felt the urge from God to reevaluate her attachment to the things she bought. And so she took the next step in her relationship with Jesus. What do you need to work on so you can be more committed to Jesus?

Leave a comment and share your thoughts.

ENCOUNTER article: "Donation Dilemma"
article author: Marissa Shrock
magazine: February 21, 2010 issue of ENCOUNTER

What does Valentine's Day mean to you?

2010-02-13T20:33:00.003-05:00

In this week's issue of ENCOUNTER, some students shared Valentine's Day poems. Valentine's Day can be happy for some people, depressing for other people, or just another day for many people. What does Valentine's Day mean to you? How does it make you feel?

Leave a comment and share your thoughts!

ENCOUNTER article: poems
article author: Andrew Martin and Justin Burrell
magazine: February 14, 2010 issue of ENCOUNTER

Giving Back

2010-02-08T19:31:00.002-05:00

We've seen a lot of great examples of people giving to others in 2010 with the devastation of Haiti. But it doesn't take a huge tragedy to find God's love in action. Every day people around you are serving, showing the love and humility of Jesus.

Tell us about some of the ways you see people live out God's love, in big and small ways. Leave a comment and share a great story.

Sanctus Real

2010-02-08T19:19:00.003-05:00

Mark from Sanctus Real shared his thoughts about what it means to be a disciple of Jesus and be discipled by someone else and a little about discipling others.

What does the word disciple mean to you? Do you think of it just as a Bible term, or have you ever considered yourself a disciple of Jesus? A disciple is one who follows and wants to grow to be like a teacher.

Who is helping you become a disciple of Jesus? How are you helping others become disciples of Him? Leave a comment and share your thoughts!

ENCOUNTER article: "A Real Disciple"
article author: Judy Gyde
magazine: January 31, 2010 issue of ENCOUNTER

Serving Others

2010-02-08T19:12:00.005-05:00

In this week's issue of ENCOUNTER, we read about how Amber is making a difference in the world for Christ—by serving under-resourced people in West Virginia whose lives were devastated by a flood. Amber did an internship in the area one summer and found this way to minister.

Have you ever ministered on a mission trip or internship? Leave a comment and tell us about your experiences!

ENCOUNTER article: "Making Her Life Count"
article author: Jessica Koschnitzky
magazine: January 24, 2010 issue of ENCOUNTER

January Is National Human Trafficking Awareness Month

2010-01-14T09:31:00.003-05:00

Did you know that President Obama recently declared January as National Human Trafficking Awareness Month? In this week's issue of ENCOUNTER—The Magazine, Melissa writes about the problem of human trafficking, not only internationally, but also right here in our own country. She shares how many people, including her sister, are using things that they enjoy doing or are good at to raise awareness about this problem. What other ways have you heard of people using their skills to fight human trafficking?

Leave a comment and tell us about it!

For ideas on how to take action, check out the following organizations:

StopTraffickFashion—www.stoptraffickfashion.com
International Justice Mission—www.ijm.org
Hagar International—www.hagarproject.org
Call + Response—www.callandresponse.com
Invisible Children—www.invisiblechildren.com

ENCOUNTER article: "Use What You Love to Fight Human Trafficking"
article author: Melissa Hill
magazine: January 17, 2010 issue of ENCOUNTER

It's about time!

2010-01-08T14:44:00.002-05:00

This week in ENCOUNTER—The Magazine we have a quiz to help you figure out how well you manage your time. How did you do? Did your results surprise you at all?

Leave a comment and share your quiz results!

ENCOUNTER article: "Tick Tock, How's Your Clock?"
article author: Laura & Stephanie Farrar
magazine: January 10, 2010 issue of ENCOUNTER

Happy New Year!

2009-12-22T12:07:00.003-05:00

In this week's issue of ENCOUNTER—The Magazine, Michelle challenges us to try a different type of New Year's resolution. Think you can try it for 14 days?

Let us know what it was like and what you learned!

ENCOUNTER article: "Resolution Revolution"
article author: Michelle Griep
magazine: January 3, 2010 issue of ENCOUNTER

Birthday Blessings

2009-12-22T11:53:00.003-05:00

This week in ENCOUNTER—The Magazine, Brian writes about his friend Keaton, who decided to use his birthday party as a way to raise money to help a village in another country. Have you ever been impacted by another person's godly generosity?

Leave a comment and tell us about it!

ENCOUNTER article: "A Birthday Party for Someone Else"
article author: Brian Coates
magazine: December 27, 2009 issue of ENCOUNTER

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-18T11:26:00.004-05:00

This week's issue of ENCOUNTER—The Magazine features a quiz to help you figure out if your focus is more on giving or getting. Do you have the right perspective about Christmas, or do you struggle?

Leave a comment and share your quiz results!

ENCOUNTER article: "Becoming a Christmas Giver"
article author: Teresa Cleary
magazine: December 20, 2009 issue of ENCOUNTER

Giving Back

2009-12-11T15:40:00.003-05:00

This week in ENCOUNTER—The Magazine, Joel and Luke of Austoville share how they are giving back to God through their talents and tithing. What are some ways you've seen people give back to God? How do you give back to God in your own life?

Leave a comment and let us know!

ENCOUNTER article: "The Family Business"
article author: Christy Barritt
magazine: December 13, 2009 issue of ENCOUNTER

Green with Envy

2009-12-04T14:12:00.005-05:00

This week in ENCOUNTER—The Magazine, Shelley writes about feeling jealous over something a friend has. Have you ever felt a twinge of jealousy over something nice your friend had? What changed your perspective?

Leave a comment and share what you learned!

ENCOUNTER article: "Priceless"
article author: Shelley Lee
magazine: December 6, 2009 issue of ENCOUNTER

Science and Salvation?

2009-11-25T11:04:00.003-05:00

In this week's issue of ENCOUNTER—The Magazine, Ryan tells us about how he plans to have a career in science in order to share Jesus with others. What career would you like to pursue in the future? How do you think God could use you in that field?

Leave a comment and share your thoughts!

ENCOUNTER article: "No Limits: Science in the Cross Fire"
article author: Ronica Stromberg
magazine: November 29, 2009 issue of ENCOUNTER

Happy (Early) Turkey Day!

2009-11-20T16:58:00.003-05:00

This week in ENCOUNTER—The Magazine, Chance shares his favorite things about Thanksgiving. What's your favorite part of Thanksgiving? The food? Football? Or spending time with the fam maybe?

Leave a comment and tell us about it!

ENCOUNTER article: "My Story: Thanksgiving"
article author: Chance Thrift
magazine: November 22, 2009 issue of ENCOUNTER

No Pain, No Gain

2009-11-16T12:20:00.003-05:00

This week in ENCOUNTER—The Magazine, Karl told us about some of the obstacles he faced while he was a missionary in eastern Europe. Have you faced obstacles when telling others about Jesus? How have you faced those obstacles?

Leave a comment and share your experience!

ENCOUNTER article: "Do They Stop You—Or Make You Stronger?"
article author: Karl Halverson
magazine: November 15, 2009 issue of ENCOUNTER

A Place to Serve

2009-11-06T14:07:00.003-05:00

In this week's issue of ENCOUNTER—The Magazine, Tanner shares how he got involved with a food pantry in his community. How do you serve others and share God's love?

Leave a comment and tell us about it!

ENCOUNTER article: "A Place to Serve"
article author: Tanya L. Wells
magazine: November 8, 2009 issue of ENCOUNTER

Can God REALLY Use Me?

2009-10-30T14:05:00.002-04:00

This week in ENCOUNTER—The Magazine, Jennifer helps us understand that we don't have to worry about how qualified we are to serve God—He is the one that gives us our value. How has God used you to do things for Him?

Leave a comment and share your story!

Also, make sure to check back here next week: We'll be talking about how to serve others AND finding out a little bit more about the band This Beautiful Republic!

ENCOUNTER article: "Paper Money and Shady Pasts"
article author: Jennifer M. Kvamme
magazine: November 1, 2009 issue of ENCOUNTER

The Usual Suspects

2009-10-22T17:04:00.002-04:00

In this week's issue of ENCOUNTER—The Magazine, you tried to determine which person was most in need of God's mercy. Did you pick the right suspect in the lineup?

Leave a comment and share your thoughts!

ENCOUNTER article: "The Lineup"
article author: Anne Williman
magazine: October 25, 2009 issue of ENCOUNTER

Alone

2009-10-16T13:54:00.003-04:00

This week in ENCOUNTER—The Magazine, Teresa gave us some tips for dealing with loneliness. Do you ever feel like an outcast? How do you cope?

Leave a comment and share your thoughts:

ENCOUNTER article: "Lonely, Left Out, and Up a Tree"
article author: Teresa Cleary
magazine: October 18, 2009 issue of ENCOUNTER

Go Team Go!

2009-10-09T10:10:00.003-04:00

This week in ENCOUNTER—The Magazine, Rosemarie pointed out that performing some ridiculous ritual so your favorite team will win is just as silly as all of the efforts we make to get right with God. Like a fan of your favorite team, be a fan of God. Celebrate what He's done in your life!

Leave a comment and share your thoughts:

ENCOUNTER article: "Paint Your Face for God?"
article author: Rosemarie DiCristo
magazine: October 11, 2009 issue of ENCOUNTER

What Does Your Reputation Say About You?

2009-10-02T17:11:00.004-04:00

This week in ENCOUNTER—The Magazine, Michaela learned how valuable a good reputation really is. What about you? Do you like what your reputation says about you? What do you need to change?

Leave a comment and share your story:

ENCOUNTER article: "I Needed a New Reputation"
article author: Michaela Jaselle Wilson
magazine: October 4, 2009 issue of ENCOUNTER

Do you need a new attitude?

2009-09-25T15:31:00.003-04:00

This week's issue of ENCOUNTER—The Magazine features a quiz to help you figure out if you need an attitude adjustment. Which prescription for an attitude change do you need to work on the most?

Leave a comment and share your quiz results.

ENCOUNTER article: "Your Prescription for a New Attitude"
article author: Teresa Cleary
magazine: September 27, 2009 issue of ENCOUNTER

Anxious Thoughts

2009-09-18T10:27:00.003-04:00

This week in ENCOUNTER—The Magazine, singer and songwriter Bebo Norman tells us about his struggle with anxiety. Have you ever dealt with anxiety or troubling emotions like Bebo? How did you cope?

Leave a comment and share what you learned.

ENCOUNTER article: "Struggling with Anxiety"
article author: Christy Barritt
magazine: September 20, 2009 issue of ENCOUNTER

Sticks and Stones . . .

2009-09-10T12:41:00.002-04:00

In this week's issue, Jamie was hurt by a rumor at school. Have someone's careless words ever damaged you? Have your words ever hurt someone more than you realized?

Leave a comment and share your story.

ENCOUNTER article: "Words Can Hurt"
article author: Brinda Gress
magazine: September 13, 2009 issue of ENCOUNTER

2009-09-04T11:19:00.006-04:00

This week's issue of ENCOUNTER—The Magazine features a quiz to help you figure out how healthy you are. So what did you find out?

Leave a comment and share your quiz results.

ENCOUNTER article: "Are You Healthy?"
article author: Melissa O'Reilly
magazine: September 6, 2009 issue of ENCOUNTER