The Truly Co (2024)

10/12/2024

“The Word became flesh and dwelt among us.” - John 1:14

The birth of Jesus is a story of raw simplicity—God made flesh, entering a world of humble beginnings. Like plaster shaped into something beautiful, He took on the raw material of humanity to bring us life.

This Christmas, may we remember that the greatest masterpiece began with the simplicity of a manger. God with us, shaping our hearts into something eternal.

— Lindsay May

Plaster wall art featured in Truly magazine’s Dwell issue created by .dumes.art

02/12/2024

In the garden.
In the wilderness.
On the mountain.
In the Tabernacle.
In the temple.
In Exile.
In a human body.
Through the Holy Spirit.
From age to age, he is with us.
He is with you!

This first day of Advent, I am reminded that God is consistently present and approachable to people. His divine presence and closeness is accessible and involved in our lives throughout generations. He is not distant. He is near. Thank you Lord, for this blessed assurance!

Do you have an Advent tradition or something you do each year to keep your mind focused on Jesus’s birth instead of commercialism? I’d love to hear it, and I bet others in this space would love it, too!

— Truly Co founder,

(PS. I’m definitely a sucker for Hallmark Christmas movies and all the pretty lights! )

05/11/2024

The rulers of this world will rise and fall, but God’s word will never change. The Lord is the one who lifts and lowers— we can trust Him.

He knows what lies in darkness, and LIGHT DWELLS WITH HIM.

We don’t have to fear, because God is in control. Will you join me in praying for our nation today? Above all else, our allegiance is always to HIM first.

I offer this simple prayer if you have no other words:
God, we trust you.
Not my will, but yours be done.
On earth as it is in heaven.

— Lindsay

25/10/2024

When the world tries to define who you are, remember that above all, you are:

Loved.
Chosen.
Accepted.
Forgiven.
Redeemed.

Praise God that your past does not define you. Your accomplishments don’t determine your worth. On your darkest of days, you are held.

Which word resonates with you today? Pick one you need to remember 🙏🏼

24/10/2024

If you’re wrestling through doubts about God, you aren’t alone. What do we do when we’re in seasons of doubt? Our latest article from will encourage you as she shares about her experience.

“Mom, what if there is no God?”

My almost-teenaged son seems to save the heaviest questions for my nighttime routine of kissing him good night.

You might think my reaction would be one of sorrow, disappointment, or even fear. Rather, it was one of resonance; I have swum around in the deep, inky depths of doubt more than once.

The first thing I wanted my son to know is that asking these questions does not make him a “bad Christian.” Doubts can spring from our very human brains that crave answers and conclusions.

Something as radically generous as eternal glory for sinners is illogical to humans in this broken world.

I encouraged my son to explore this topic with his brain, but to not forget to use his heart as well; some truths are felt rather than reasoned. We can permit doubts to pass through our minds but should hold them lightly as we consider their origin and purpose.”

Continue reading on the blog 🤍.

17/09/2024

It’s almost here! We can’t wait to show you our fall issue of Truly magazine... the Dwell issue! Scroll to see this issue’s contributors and get a little peek at what’s coming soon to our subscribers!

Did you know that Truly magazine is reader supported? We’re thankful for our subscriber community for helping to bring each issue to life.

We’re passionate about linking arms with our fellow sisters in Christ to use our voices, artistic abilities, and knowledge to serve the Lord. We’re here to encourage you on your faith journey, and to be a platform that points to Jesus.

We’re so honored you are here 🤍.

Now tell us about your favorite place to read Truly magazine (or any other book!). We’re READY for cozy fall vibes. Are you?! 🍂☕️🫖

13/09/2024

Abiding in his presence doesn’t make us immune to pain, suffering, loss, and heartache (see John 16:33). But he gives us a place to run for refuge so we don’t have to face anything in our own strength.

That’s a different kind of protection, a divine covering. The fiery arrows of life’s troubles may be hurled at us, but we are eternally shielded by his embrace. Jesus offers the promise of his presence in his very name, Immanuel, God with us.

To those who love him, he vows to give rescue, protection, an answer when we call, his presence in trouble, and deliverance (see Psalm 91:14–16), as well as the honor of being his daughters.

Read more from Kierstin Almstrum , , in her encouraging article on thetrulyco.com

18/07/2024

📢 Calling all writers and creatives who want to spread some love, encouragement, and Gospel-centered truth in this world 📢
Twice a year, we have opportunities to invite writers (and creatives) to meet the Truly team, hear about what’s coming up, and dream up content for future issues... we’ve got one coming up SOON!
We’re hosting an online content meeting on Thursday, August 1st, to explain the process of submitting articles for possible publication. Please note this meeting will be geared toward writers but will touch on the creative process.
If you’ve been following us and want to share your gifts, this is an excellent opportunity to learn more and find out how to jump in. Learn more about the meeting at the link in our bio.

A few other meeting bonuses:
• Meet new friends and connections who have similar passions.
• Get an inside peek at our team and what goes on behind the scenes of each issue.
• Find out what we’re looking for in our publications so you feel confident in submitting your work.
• Pray for God to lead and direct each contributor and future readers. Seriously, we’ve seen firsthand how God moves when we pray 🙌🏼.
If this makes your heart beat a little faster with excitement, you need to attend! Register for the meeting via the link in our profile.

Would you encourage the writers in your life by sharing this post with them and giving them a tag below? You never know how a little nudge can make a difference to someone🥰.

10/07/2024

🌟 “Receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls.” —James 1:21 🌟

For over twenty years, I wandered in a wilderness, away from God’s truth. Like Little Red Riding Hood, I was led off my path by the allure of culture, self-love, and New Age mysticism. I trusted those who seemed to want the best for me, but they were “false prophets” in disguise (Matthew 7:15).

In the forest of confusion, I jumped from one self-help trend to another, seeking truth but only finding darkness. My relationship with Jesus was distorted by lies. Anxiety and fear gripped me until God, in His infinite wisdom, dropped breadcrumbs on my path, leading me back to His Word and His truth.

God rescued me from the wolves of deception and set me on the narrow path to life (Matthew 7:13-14). Now, I strive to abide in His love, putting away wickedness and receiving His Word with meekness (James 1:21).

True freedom lies in living as God created us, in His image. In a world full of distractions, let us focus on Jesus, the source of lasting peace. ✨

Read the full post from Tera Balog, PhD ,, at thetrulyco.com.

Follow for more gospel-centered encouragement 🤍

30/04/2024

Save for a reminder that He is always there. He sees it all. You’re never forgotten, sister!

When you’re overwhelmed with the unknown, He is with you 🤍

What’s your go-to scripture to read or pray when you feel anxious?

26/04/2024

Have you ever poured your heart out to someone while you’re in pain only to have them dismiss your anguish? Not fun. Emotional rejection from trusted people can be deeply wounding.

Job was a man who experienced profound loss, and his well-intentioned friends tried to speak on God’s behalf about why he suffered. They were certain they spoke wisdom about how God operates, but they were badly mistaken.

In response to their foolish words, the Lord said, “My anger burns against you and against your two friends, for you have not spoken of me what is right, as my servant Job has.” (Job 42:7)

Job needed comfort, not critique. Even well-intended words about God will be held accountable. Ouch. And maybe even a little scary.

May this be a call to sharpen our ear to God’s voice as we move past the “aesthetics” of picture-perfect personal devotionals that are so prevalent in this online space. Grief is messy. Real-life faith is messy. We all know that the Church is messy. But it can also be a place of beauty and healing when it’s functioning as it should.

In humility we can seek the Lord in prayer and wrestle through scripture with one another to uncover the heart of God. Let’s seek and speak truth together. Amen? 🙏🏼

PS. If you’re going through pain, just know that God is with you. He hears your cries, and he won’t run away.🤍

PSS. If you need prayer today, drop a heart in the comments and we’d love to pray for you!

23/04/2024

If you’re feeling stuck with no clear path forward or feel like you aren’t progressing the way you’d like...

Be encouraged that there is beauty in the process–– it’s faithful grit and determination to learn to trust as you lean on Jesus.

Give it time. The process is hard, yes, but it’s the process that brings depth, transformation, and lasting change. Beauty is in the process.

He who started a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus. Philippians 1:6.

Who else is determined to choose to trust in God’s timing? 🤍✨

20/04/2024

Keep contending for the gospel. Rejoice in the Lord always. Let your graciousness be known to everyone— the Lord is near! Bring everything to the Lord in prayer.

The peace of God guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.

Whatever is true.
Whatever is honorable.
Whatever is just.
Whatever is pure.
Whatever is lovely.
Whatever is commendable.
Whatever is excellent.
Whatever is praiseworthy.
Dwell on these things, sisters 🤍.

What’s a lovely thing you’re focusing on right now?

18/03/2024

BIG ANNOUNCEMENT!! 📣 Truly Magazine’s Depth issue releases in a few short weeks! We thought you might like a little peek 👀😍

What’s the issue like? Key features include:
Beautiful design and layout
Original artwork and photography from our Truly community
Bible reading strategies
Articles incorporating Old Testament precepts into everyday living
Resources that encourage connection over consumption
Prayer and poetry

AND, subscribers get a bonus, custom-designed vinyl sticker 🤩. If you haven’t subscribed yet, now’s the perfect time!

We’ll be sharing more fun announcements soon!

04/03/2024

Do you wonder how to discern his voice from others’ ideas—or even your own thoughts?

Conversation fuels connection and intimacy. Just as we engage in deep talks with loved ones, God invites us into conversation with Him.

Today’s featured article gives us a simple framework to help us connect with God. Remember the acronym PARLOR, a place where guests are welcomed and enjoyed through conversation.

🙏 Pause: Still your heart and turn your attention to the Almighty.

💬 Ask: Be specific in your requests, making it easier to discern His answers.

📖 Read: Dive into His Word. The Bible reveals His heart and character, helping us recognize His voice.

👀 Look out: Expect God to speak through circumstances, friends, dreams, and the Holy Spirit. Test everything against His truth.

👂 Obey: Step out in faith, trusting and obeying His guidance. Sometimes silence comes from not following His last instruction.

♻️ Repeat: Keep the conversation going daily. Confess, seek, praise, and listen—God desires a relationship with you.

Read more of ‘s article at thetrulyco.com

21/02/2024

Have you felt discouraged lately? You aren’t alone. Swipe to see the exact moment I was praying for YOU on a cold afternoon walk in MN🙏🏼.

I sent this note in an email this week, but I think it applies to all of us. So, I’m sharing it here, too. Read on if you’re curious ✨

This week has been one of those weeks where I’ve felt paralyzed because of overwhelm. My to-do list keeps growing regardless of how many check marks and highlights I strike across my notebook. You might know that feeling, too.

It’s funny how the hard weeks often coincide with other opportunities to share my faith. Between regular work tasks, my seminary homework, walking with friends through challenging situations, and being present for my family, I put aside my “should-do” list and paused.

I closed my laptop, went outside for a walk, and as the sun warmed my face, I prayed.

Lord, help! I don’t have words to fix anything I’m walking through. These trials aren’t subsiding. What value can my voice bring to the chaos around me?

And God replied, “The trials won’t disappear, but you can ask me for boldness to speak in the midst of them.”

Friends, these trials ARE our testimonies. I don’t know what you are faced with this week, but this is no time to give up. As you work on articles for Truly’s submission openings, I pray for boldness. Why? Your voice can give others the courage to persevere in their own circumstances. Your words might be a bridge to someone else’s freedom.

Today, I want to remind you that you are uniquely positioned to articulate what God has placed on your heart. Your voice matters. If you are discouraged, don’t give up!

I will continue to pray for the Holy Spirit to guide you as you courageously steward your voice through your writing. I can’t wait to read your submission!

Blessings,

Lindsay

Publisher & Founder

PS: The submission deadline is Thursday, February 29.

02/02/2024

If you aren’t sure what to include in your article submission, don’t miss this! Register for our FREE content call next week!

We have also included a few details here for you. Register for the content call and download our content guide for all the submission intel.

What are your favorite kinds of articles to read in literary magazines? Tell us! You may just inspire something new for the future!

Ps. Sign up for the content call and you’ll get all the submission info sent to your inbox, too!!

26/01/2024

Faith is a lot like sand on a beach—moving, shifting, and even briefly disappearing—before it slowly begins to come into view again.

As I get older, I am desperate for more tangible proof that what I have believed my whole life is real, begging for manna to appear on the ground or water pouring forth from a rock. I wake every morning to barren ground outside, yet there is still this draw to believe.

There is something about the way the sun rises every morning and never fails to set. The teachings of Jesus—humility, kindness, forgiveness, and striving to love others well—just make sense in a world of so much destruction and despair.

Trusting in something as daunting as an unknown future is no small feat. But the history and evidence of God’s faithfulness amid the unknown settles any rising fear. Faith shifts as seasons change, but his voice breaks through the fog with a simple Trust me. And I am finding that for now, that is enough.

Read Samantha Branch’s () story of trusting God in unsettling seasons at thetrulyco.com.

Follow for more gospel-centered encouragement.

The Truly Co