Welcome to Brilliant Gaze, a podcast for everyone seeking the Kingdom of God and the abundant life to be found there. I’m your host, Max Wilkins, a fellow pilgrim on the Kingdom journey. As we pursue the Kingdom life together we will discover a profound truth: in seeking first the Kingdom of God, and His righteousness, we receive everything we need for life and meaning as well. My guests and I are here to encourage you along the way, and to help you live life to the full.
We are back! As we launch Season 4 of Brilliant Gaze we revisit the idea of The Kingdom of God, and discuss why the Kingdom is central to the good news of Jesus. We set the foundation for what will follow in this new season. Max's Website: www.maxwilkins.net Episode 4-1 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brilliant.gaze.5 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brilliantgazepod/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/brilliantgaze
Anyone can start well, but finishing well is another story. Solomon had amazing success in his life but failed to finish well. The apostle Paul, on the other hand, endured unspeakable hardships, but persevered to the very end. Let's talk about what differed between these two. Episode 3-31 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brilliant.gaze.5 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brilliantgazepod/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/brilliantgaze
This episode marks the 100th edition of Brilliant Gaze. Today we look backwards at some of what has happened in those 100 episodes, we look at the principles and foundations on which the podcast is built, and we look forward to what is ahead. Join us as we celebrate and move forward. Episode 3-30 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brilliant.gaze.5 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brilliantgazepod/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/brilliantgaze
As we walk in faith, the life of faith often seems like a whirlwind of chaos and it can sometimes seem overwhelming. In those moments, often the best thing we can do is step away, be still, and know that He is God. Let's look at how Elijah discovered this truth. Episode 3-29 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brilliant.gaze.5 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brilliantgazepod/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/brilliantgaze
1 Thessalonians 5:24 says, “The one who calls you is faithful, and he will do it.” Listen as Pastor Bill Willits discusses how this promise from Scripture has been lived out in the launch and growth of Northpoint Church in Metro Atlanta. Episode 3-28 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brilliant.gaze.5 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brilliantgazepod/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/brilliantgaze
When we hear the words “It's time,” what follows is usually something significant and compelling. But what happens when it is God interrupting our carefully scripted lives with a call for us to step up and respond to His calling? Biblical Esther helps us understand. Episode 3-27 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brilliant.gaze.5 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brilliantgazepod/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/brilliantgaze
We are created in Christ Jesus for mission and ministry, but many of us believe we need some special gifting or resources in order to do so. Special guest Andy Ivey shares with us a life built on using what we have to engage in the mission. Episode 3-26 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brilliant.gaze.5 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brilliantgazepod/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/brilliantgaze
When we make the decision to trust and follow Jesus, He always calls us to step into mission with Him and to follow Him into the ministry He has prepared for us. Let's look together at what this means for the lives of Kingdom seekers. Episode 3-25 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brilliant.gaze.5 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brilliantgazepod/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/brilliantgaze
The abundant life that Jesus promises us is not dependent on external circumstances. In this replay of our most listened to episode Gary Godfrey, who is living with ALS speaks to how we can make today our best day. Episode 3-24 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brilliant.gaze.5 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brilliantgazepod/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/brilliantgaze
Do you ever find yourself saying, “I'm doing everything in my power to succeed”? If so, you might be surprised to know that this is not only a prescription to a stunted life, it is also completely contrary to what it means to walk in faith. Episode 3-23 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brilliant.gaze.5 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brilliantgazepod/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/brilliantgaze
Out of the brokenness of a challenging season in her personal life, this mother of two young adult children found her calling as a cross-cultural witness, and discovered the multitude of ways the Lord can bring life, joy, and beauty out of the brokenness of our lives when we bring it all to Him. Episode 3-22 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brilliant.gaze.5 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brilliantgazepod/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/brilliantgaze
The life of faith is more than assent to a set of propositions, or even believing that God will do good things in our lives. The life of faith is something we live, it is something we do, it is a series of actions in our lives. And no one exhibited this idea better than Abraham… the Father of our Faith. Let's consider him. Episode 3-21 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brilliant.gaze.5 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brilliantgazepod/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/brilliantgaze
Isaiah says, in Chapter 61, that God can bring forth beauty for ashes. But what does that look like in the life of a Christ follower. Listen as noted author and special guest Rev. Romal Tune discusses this idea and more. Episode 3-20 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brilliant.gaze.5 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brilliantgazepod/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/brilliantgaze Selah Information: www.selahrest.org Pre-Order for “I Wish My Dad…” https://www.amazon.com/Wish-My-Dad-Vulnerable-Conversations/dp/1506481574/ref=sr_1_2?crid=38CGDE8MRY7Y1&keywords=i+wish+my+dad+normal+tune&qid=1650485062&sprefix=I+wish+my+da%2Caps%2C136&sr=8-2
On Sunday morning following the crucifixion everyone thought it was over. The cry of the church for 2000 years has been: “He is risen, indeed!” But what does the resurrection of Jesus mean for each of us? Let's talk about that together. Episode 3-19 Link to Painting Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brilliant.gaze.5 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brilliantgazepod/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/brilliantgaze
As we prepare to celebrate the Good News of the resurrection, let's linger a bit at the cross, considering both what happened there and what it means for those of us who are seeking the Kingdom of God. Episode 3-18 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brilliant.gaze.5 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brilliantgazepod/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/brilliantgaze
As we move ever closer to Good Friday, and consideration of what the Lord did for us that day, we need to be reminded that the complete and unconditional forgiveness we have in Jesus is also the kind of total forgiveness He asks us to give to others. Episode 3-17 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brilliant.gaze.5 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brilliantgazepod/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/brilliantgaze
May the words of our mouths AND the meditations of our hearts be acceptable in the Lord's sight. But so often our words fill all the time, and there is none left for the meditations of our hearts, or for the Lord to speak. Yet making a place for Him to speak to us is the highest form of prayer. Episode 3-16 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brilliant.gaze.5 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brilliantgazepod/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/brilliantgaze
As we have discussed what Heaven (and hell) will be like, what we will be doing in eternity, and the promises of Jesus we might also ask the question: what does all of this have to say about our lives right now? Let's talk about that. Episode 3-15 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brilliant.gaze.5 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brilliantgazepod/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/brilliantgaze
When we think someone or something has no chance of success, we often say, “they don't have a prayer.” Yet, even if the only thing we have left is prayer, we always have that. Perhaps, that is why Jesus encourages us to intercede on behalf of others. It often unleashes the power of heaven. Episode 3-14 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brilliant.gaze.5 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brilliantgazepod/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/brilliantgaze
If you think eternity with the Lord is going to be eternally boring, think again. When Jesus said He had come that we might have life, He not only meant “life” in the sense of aliveness and appetite for life, He also meant that life would be eternal. And what joy that eternal life will include. Episode 3-13 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brilliant.gaze.5 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brilliantgazepod/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/brilliantgaze
The world is full of temptation, and the Lord lets us know that we will be tempted. But He also encourages us to pray that we will be delivered from that temptation. Thankfully He also shows us how we can resist and overcome. Episode 3-12 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brilliant.gaze.5 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brilliantgazepod/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/brilliantgaze
The old gospel song says, “Everybody talking ‘bout Heaven ain't going there…” But the truth is, many today believe the song is wrong. If there is a hell, many people believe no one is much at risk of going there. You might be surprised that Jesus believed differently. Let's consider what our Lord had to say. Episode 3-11 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brilliant.gaze.5 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brilliantgazepod/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/brilliantgaze
When we pray we should come before the Lord with clean hands and clean hearts. But nothing cleanses the heart quite like extending forgiveness. And as the Lord makes clear, our own forgiveness depends upon how we forgive others. Episode 3-10 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brilliant.gaze.5 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brilliantgazepod/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/brilliantgaze
Many people love to watch television shows about home makeovers. But some may be surprised to learn that our eternal homes include a cosmic episode of complete home makeover. Listen as we talk about what our eternal homes will be like. Some surprises may await you. Episode 3-9 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brilliant.gaze.5 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brilliantgazepod/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/brilliantgaze
Jesus tells us to pray daily, “give us today our daily bread”. There is much truth packed into these six words, and they are also tied deeply to hearts of gratitude. Let's consider how these words apply to our lives, abundantly blessed though they are. Episode 3-8 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brilliant.gaze.5 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brilliantgazepod/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/brilliantgaze
Jesus says that He is “the resurrection and the life”. We believe that the Lord will give us eternal life, but what is this resurrection business about? Aren't we destined to be harp playing angels in the clouds? Absolutely not! Let's talk about what we will be. Episode 3-7 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brilliant.gaze.5 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brilliantgazepod/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/brilliantgaze
When Jesus suggests that we pray, “Your Kingdom come, Your will be done on earth as it is in Heaven,” what is He actually encouraging us to pray for? And how would it impact our lives if we sincerely prayed this prayer? Let's talk about that together. Episode 3-6 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brilliant.gaze.5 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brilliantgazepod/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/brilliantgaze
Would it surprise you to know that when it comes to “Heaven” the Bible actually speaks of at least four different “heavens”. This episode will explore the differences in these four heavens, where we go when we die, and what the biblical “Paradise” is all about. Episode 3-5 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brilliant.gaze.5 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brilliantgazepod/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/brilliantgaze
Prayer was central to the life of Jesus and an important part of every major event in His public life and ministry. Observing this, His disciples wanted to know what He could teach them about prayer. He not only teaches them, He still teaches us.Let's learn this important spiritual practice from the Master. Episode 3-4 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brilliant.gaze.5 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brilliantgazepod/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/brilliantgaze
According to Solomon God has set eternity in the hearts of men and women. And according to Paul, through the Spirit we do not need to be ignorant about heaven or the things of eternity. Yet, for many today a multitude of questions still remain about what happens on the other side of death. Let's look at what we can know and why it matters. Episode 3-3 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brilliant.gaze.5 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brilliantgazepod/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/brilliantgaze
Most of us know that prayer is a major part of a life of faith. Yet many of us not only have questions and concerns about prayer, but also have frustrations around our attempts to put prayer into practice. Join us on this journey as we not only discover how to pray with power, but also what is happening in the highest reaches of heaven when we pray. Episode 3-2 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brilliant.gaze.5 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brilliantgazepod/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/brilliantgaze
On Valentine's Day 2022 we launch season 3 of Brilliant Gaze Podcast. We take a look at the nature and Kingdom importance of love, and look ahead at the two major themes of this new season of the Podcast. Join us as we talk all thing Kingdom of God. Episode 3-1 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brilliant.gaze.5 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brilliantgazepod/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/brilliantgaze
In our final episode of Brilliant Gaze for 2021 we look at a God Who has tried to communicate a desire to dwell with His creation from the beginning. The message of Christmas is that God is with us, and that is the essence of the good news. Merry Christmas. Give yourselves the ultimate Christmas gift this year… invite Him into your life. Episode 2-22 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brilliant.gaze.5 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brilliantgazepod/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/brilliantgaze
As children most of us made Christmas wish lists. It is interesting that we celebrate the birth of our Lord by considering what gifts we hope to receive. But what would be on the Christmas wish list of Jesus if He had one? What would we give to the One who truly has everything? You might be surprised at what is likely on His list! Episode 2-21 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brilliant.gaze.5 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brilliantgazepod/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/brilliantgaze
We have a funny way of celebrating Christmas in the United States. The season starts with Black Friday where major portions of our nation trample one another in a desire to “get our share.” But what if “our share” refers to something entirely different for Kingdom seekers. Let's talk about that. Episode 2-20 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brilliant.gaze.5 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brilliantgazepod/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/brilliantgaze
Our special guest, Keith, is a cross-cultural witness who lives with his large family in the Himalayas. Listen as we discuss changing perceptions of what it means to be a Christian in a non-Christian majority. Learn how to live with your front door open! Episode 2-19 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brilliant.gaze.5 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brilliantgazepod/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/brilliantgaze
As we look to “The Way” in the manger, we learn that the perspective of Advent and Christmas is to look toward the light. Listen as we talk about what that looks like in our day to day lives. Episode 2-18 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brilliant.gaze.5 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brilliantgazepod/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/brilliantgaze
Kingdom seekers are called to live “separate” called out lives. But what does that life look like and how can we determine whether or not our lives are moving in that direction? As we move towards Immanuel… God with us, let's look at this question. Episode 2-17 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brilliant.gaze.5 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brilliantgazepod/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/brilliantgaze
As we move into the Advent Season and prepare for the celebration of Christmas let's consider the proper posture for those of us who would come to Immanuel - God with us. Even as we sing “Away in a Manger,” let's consider “The Way” in the manger. Episode 2-16 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brilliant.gaze.5 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brilliantgazepod/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/brilliantgaze
Kingdom seekers are encouraged to give thanks regularly and in a variety of ways. Developing an attitude of gratitude is essential to experiencing the presence of the Lord and the peace that only He can bring. Episode 2-15 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brilliant.gaze.5 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brilliantgazepod/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/brilliantgaze
Join me with special guest Pastor Kingspride Hammond, the founder and director of Alabaster Project in Tamale, Ghana as we talk about stepping out in faith and into the mission to which Jesus has called us and for which Jesus has saved us. For more information: www.alabasterproject.org Episode 2-14 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brilliant.gaze.5 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brilliantgazepod/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/brilliantgaze
The fascinating story of Shadrach, Meshach and Abed-nego is familiar to many from our childhood Sunday School classes. But there is so much more going on than simply a deliverance from the fiery furnace. Listen as we talk about walking in the confidence of the Lord. Episode 2-13 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brilliant.gaze.5 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brilliantgazepod/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/brilliantgaze
Join me and special guest Rev. Dr. Wayne Wiatt as we talk about life in the Spirit, walking in the Spirit, and the truth that when we are walking in the Spirit, no matter how far we've gone or what we are doing… there is more! Episode 2-12 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brilliant.gaze.5 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brilliantgazepod/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/brilliantgaze
What does it mean to live a “Spirit-led life” and why would that matter anyway? We will talk about the nature of walking after the Spirit and how to avoid the loneliness and disappointment of trying to pursue the Kingdom of God on our own power. Episode 2-11 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brilliant.gaze.5 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brilliantgazepod/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/brilliantgaze
Author and host of Success Made to Last Podcast Rick Tocquigny talks about encouragement, significance, Church kitchen ladies, and greeting cards. Listen to discover how all of this connects to the Kingdom of God and our Kingdom lives together. Episode 2-10 Success Made to Last Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/success-made-to-last/id1506229843 For individuals: www.gracefully-yours.com For churches or retailers: www.gracefullyyours.faire.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brilliant.gaze.5 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brilliantgazepod/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/brilliantgaze
Encouragement may be the best and most overlooked spiritual gift given to believers. Hebrews 3:13 tells us to “encourage one another daily, as long as it is called ‘today'...” What would it look like to put this Kingdom principle into practice in our daily lives? Episode 2-9 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brilliant.gaze.5 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brilliantgazepod/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/brilliantgaze
Christian Union Sports Club founder Mark Wittig tells the story of how God used soccer and discipleship to reach the “sicarios” and other youth gang members in Medellin, Colombia, at the time the deadliest city in the world. Listen as we learn how this fruitful ministry continues to change lives all over Colombia. Episode 2-8 Mark's Email: marcosw54@gmail.com Web site: www.cosdecol.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brilliant.gaze.5 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brilliantgazepod/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/brilliantgaze
As we consider the sad news of the kidnapping of 17 Christian missionaries by a vicious street gang in Haiti, many begin to ask, “How can God let this kind of thing happen to good people? Isn't the safest place to be in the center of God's will?” Let's talk about that and more... Episode 2-7 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brilliant.gaze.5 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brilliantgazepod/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/brilliantgaze
Even those of us who are seeking the Kingdom and following the way of Jesus have plans for our days, often set out with a destination in mind, and live with purpose. Yet one of the surprising Kingdom principles is how much Kingdom ministry and purpose actually occurs unexpectedly during “interruptions” along the way. Embracing these moments can be a key to the abundant life in Jesus. Episode 2-5 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brilliant.gaze.5 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brilliantgazepod/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/brilliantgaze
After 42 years of pastoral ministry and dozens of books, Pastor Jim Harnish has written a word for those who are struggling with times of change and crisis… in short, for all of us. Listen as Jim describes the important truths he unearthed as he looked at the Scripture Jesus quoted publicly in His own times of crisis. Episode 2-6 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brilliant.gaze.5 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brilliantgazepod/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/brilliantgaze
Pastor Matthew Hartsfield, Lead Pastor of Bay Hope Church in Tampa Florida talks about how the expression “bloom where you are planted” and how that philosophy (and trusting Ephesians 3:20) has enabled ministry and new life to blossom and grow over the last 35 years. Online Worship: Live.bayhope.com YouTube: youtube.com/bayhopechurch Episode 2-4 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brilliant.gaze.5 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brilliantgazepod/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/brilliantgaze