About Justin

Dr. Justin N. Poythress is a pastor and author seeking to restore rest and wonder to the worn out. He grew up in a loving Christian family, surrounded by intelligence and success. Throughout his life, God has been teaching Justin to untangle his worth from his wins. This journey has involved rebelling and running away from God, climactic and ordinary failures, and God’s grace of redemption and rest at every step. 

Stories and writing have always provided a refuge. They serve as reminders that God is not merely someone to be feared and revered, but someone who overflows with wonder, joy, and peace. Justin’s most formative influences include his father, Vern Poythress, C.S. Lewis, J.R.R. Tolkien, Augustine, John Piper, and Tim Keller. Justin wants to discover and share more of the rest and wonder God freely gives to those worn out with trying to earn their significance. 

During his undergrad at Vanderbilt, Justin studied education and political science, then he taught middle school for two years in Nashville before going to Westminster seminary in Philadelphia (M.Div; D.Min). He then pastored in Indianapolis, Fort Myers, and Boise. Throughout this time he’s written for various publications, including seven years as a fast food reviewer. 

Justin lives in Boise, Idaho with his wife, Liz, and his daughter. His pastimes include being disappointed by the Dallas Cowboys, finding good brunch spots with Liz, books on audio, character-driven sitcoms, and traveling.