While living in Los Angeles, Eldredge was searching for a "worldview." After exploring other religions, Eastern mysticism, Lao-Tzu, and New Age spirituality, he discovered the writings of Francis Schaeffer, whom he calls one of the best philosophers of the 20th century. Through Schaeffer, Eldredge came to Christ and later to the church. He eventually earned a master's degree in counseling and practiced in Colorado Springs, before working for Focus on the Family, where he served as Senior Fellow for Christian Worldview.