BCL Online Picks — November 5, 2026

November 5, 2026/BCL/
Photo Credit: Elizabeth Romeka / Snapwire

Photo Credit: Elizabeth Romeka / Snapwire

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning Beautiful Christian Life LLC may get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through its links, at no cost to you.

Explore why Jesus cursed a fig tree, how to be proactive in seeking marriage, whether there’s a biblical formula for raising children, how Christians should respond to governing authorities, and more in this week’s online picks!

1. Why Did Jesus Curse a Fig Tree? (Matthew 21)

Why did Jesus curse a fig tree for having no fruit, especially when it wasn’t the season for figs? In this article from Crossway, theologian Dan Doriani explains how this puzzling incident relates to Jesus’ cleansing of the temple. Read it here →

2. Help! I Need a Spouse (Part 2)

Why can finding a spouse be so challenging for Christian singles today? Writing at The Heidelblog, theologian R. Scott Clark considers some of the challenges facing single Christian women and encourages them to be proactive in seeking marriage. Read it here →

3. Just Follow the Formula

Is there a biblical formula that guarantees children will grow up to be faithful Christians? Drawing on his pastoral experience, theologian J. V. Fesko challenges the idea that following a particular parenting method guarantees success. Read it here →

4. God’s Left Hand

How should Christians respond when political leaders they disagree with are elected to office? Writing for Modern Reformation, pastor Bryce Waller examines Romans 13 and explains why believers are called to respect and submit to governing authorities, while also recognizing the limits of their God-given authority. Read it here →

5. What to Say When You Don’t Know What to Say

When someone you care about is suffering, how can you offer meaningful encouragement when words seem inadequate? Drawing from his years in pastoral ministry and his own experiences with serious illness, the author of Brushfire Stories shares why presence and practical expressions of Christian love can mean more than finding the perfect words. Read it here →

6. Assurance

How can Christians be certain of their salvation, especially when they struggle with doubt or ongoing sin? In this helpful guide from Ligonier Ministries, discover why our assurance rests not on the strength of our faith or our own good works but on Jesus Christ and his finished work on our behalf. Read it here →

7. Reformation Women: Marguerite de Navarre

Did you know that a French princess played a crucial role in protecting the Protestant Reformation in France? In this fascinating historical account from Tabletalk, author Rebecca VanDoodewaard introduces Marguerite de Navarre, whose courage and influence helped shelter persecuted Reformers during a dangerous period in French history. Read it here →