In every area of life, expectations exist. Go to school? Youre expected to study, pass tests, and meet certain standards if you want to graduate. Get a job? Youll be expected to show up, perform, grow, and contribute. Join a team? Youre expected to practice, play your role, and give your best. So why is it that when it comes to relationshipsespecially marriagesome people insist there should be no expectations?

He never wanted the car.

Not because it was ugly. Not because it was worthless. But because of what it meant. It had been his grandfather’s favorite—an old cherry-red 1969 Mustang, loud and proud with chrome bumpers and leather seats that smelled like time. It sat in the garage now, collecting dust and rust, silent as a memory. And every time Daniel walked past it, something in his chest tightened.

To everyone else, it was a gift.

In a world focused on fame and fortune, we often chase recognition and outward success, hoping to find value and identity. Yet, true fulfillment comes from relationship and meaningful connection, not external achievements. Drawing from Five to Thrive by Kathy Koch, we need safety, identity, belonging, competence, and purpose to thrive. Curt Thompson’s research highlights nine dimensions of connection—with God, self, others, and our environment—that help us nurture these essentials. By prioritizing authentic connections, we find the lasting joy, love, and identity that fame alone can never provide.

In today’s social media-driven world, many people struggle with the pressure to present a flawless version of themselves. This pursuit of vanity—seeking validation through likes, followers, and perfectly curated posts—often leads to anxiety, disconnection, and a sense of living inauthentically. The Bible speaks directly to this issue, contrasting the emptiness of vanity with the fullness of God’s glory.

Have you ever thought, If only they’d change, everything would be better? It’s a tempting mindset, but the truth is, we have little control over others—and sometimes, even ourselves. In our latest blog, we explore how self-control, a fruit of the Spirit, can help us regulate our emotions and transform our relationships. Discover practical steps to surrender control to God and experience true peace.

Encouragement is more than just kind words—it’s a catalyst for personal growth, resilience, and strong relationships. Like athletes who lift each other up with every high-five and pat on the back, we all thrive when we feel seen and supported. Even small gestures—a smile, a nod, or a hand on the shoulder—create lasting impacts. At Pillars, we believe in the power of encouragement to help people discover their potential. We’re here to celebrate your wins and walk with you as you build a solid foundation for a thriving life. People matter, and encouragement can make all the difference.

Shame subtly affects our relationships, often driving conflict and disconnection by making us feel unworthy of love and acceptance. Many of us protect ourselves by avoiding vulnerability, especially if we’ve experienced rejection or hurt in the past. These patterns, rooted in lies we’ve believed about ourselves, prevent the deep connection we long for.

The good news of the Gospel is that Jesus offers freedom from shame. Through His perfect love and forgiveness, we can confront the lies, confess our sins, and embrace the truth that we are fully known, forgiven, and loved. At Pillars, we provide a safe space to explore the impact of shame, rewrite your story, and live in the freedom God has given you.

The Firm Pathway