Writing & Reflections

Ponderings

Thinking out loud about faith, culture, and life.

An open notebook titled Ponderings, a fountain pen, and coffee on a wooden desk.

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Play for the Coach, Not the Crowd
Church, Culture, Pastoral Ministry Ben Smith Church, Culture, Pastoral Ministry Ben Smith

Play for the Coach, Not the Crowd

Years of watching our children compete taught me something about the voices on the sidelines: the loudest spectator does not have the authority to direct the team. The players must remember whose instructions they are there to follow.

The church faces its own chorus of demands, promises, and criticism. Drawing from 1 Thessalonians 2:4, this reflection considers what it means to please God, resist the pressure to compromise, and love people without changing the gospel entrusted to us.

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Why Swearing Is Everywhere — and What It Says About Us
Speech, Culture Ben Smith Speech, Culture Ben Smith

Why Swearing Is Everywhere — and What It Says About Us

Swearing is everywhere — in public spaces, media, and everyday conversation. What does our language reveal about our hearts and our faith? This post explores how the rise of vulgar speech reflects deeper spiritual realities, challenges assumptions about righteousness, and points us toward genuine transformation through Jesus Christ.

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