Chats with Chaplain Anthony

The Gospel is good news and God's power for our salvation. With that root and foundation we're able to live a life full of faith and righteousness. God's gift is not merely a promise of eternity with Him but an empowerment to live for Him here on Earth too. Romans 1:16-17 16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek. 17 For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith for faith, as it is written, “The righteous shall live by faith.”Following Jesus and enjoying life are not opposite ends of the spectrum. Let's connect to learn more about how that can look in your own life.Let's connect on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, or ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠!

What do we make of life? Sometimes we lose our true north or think the journey will save us. As Christians, our hope is in the work of the cross alone. God's gift of his Son and Spirit is what has saved us. Now, we work to reflect the good work that He has already done. Give out of a place of wholeness and not seeking to create a wholeness.Titus 3:4-8 4 But when the goodness and loving kindness of God our Savior appeared, 5 he saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit, 6 whom he poured out on us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior, 7 so that being justified by his grace we might become heirs according to the hope of eternal life. 8 The saying is trustworthy, and I want you to insist on these things, so that those who have believed in God may be careful to devote themselves to good works. These things are excellent and profitable for people.Following Jesus and enjoying life are not opposite ends of the spectrum. Let's connect to learn more about how that can look in your own life.Let's connect on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, or ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠!

Forgiveness is hard, but it is necessary to living freely in Christ. He forgave, and we should too. But often the amount of forgiveness we need will require even more faith in the ONE who forgives it all. Turn to God and ask Him to help. Luke 17:3-5 3 Pay attention to yourselves! If your brother sins, rebuke him, and if he repents, forgive him, 4 and if he sins against you seven times in the day, and turns to you seven times, saying, ‘I repent,' you must forgive him.” 5 The apostles said to the Lord, "Increase our faith!"Following Jesus and enjoying life are not opposite ends of the spectrum. Let's connect to learn more about how that can look in your own life.Let's connect on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, or ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠!

What is the chief end of man? How can we live a fulfilled and purposeful life? Listen today to find the simple yet challenging truth on how we can best live the life God has gifted us. Ecclesiastes 12:13-14 13 The end of the matter; all has been heard. Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man. 14 For God will bring every deed into judgment, with every secret thing, whether good or evil.Following Jesus and enjoying life are not opposite ends of the spectrum. Let's connect to learn more about how that can look in your own life.Let's connect on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, or ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠!

So much of life is stuck between that hindsight 20/20 moment and the next. We don't see the whole picture, but God is constantly dropping little nuggets of things that are to come. If you've ever had that realization months later, I ask you to listen a little harder today. And when you see it come into focus, take the opportunity to praise God, repent, act in the Spirit, or do all three! Lukek 18:31-34 31 And taking the twelve, he said to them, “See, we are going up to Jerusalem, and everything that is written about the Son of Man by the prophets will be accomplished. 32 For he will be delivered over to the Gentiles and will be mocked and shamefully treated and spit upon. 33 And after flogging him, they will kill him, and on the third day he will rise.” 34 But they understood none of these things. This saying was hidden from them, and they did not grasp what was said.Following Jesus and enjoying life are not opposite ends of the spectrum. Let's connect to learn more about how that can look in your own life.Let's connect on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, or ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠!

Are you willing to be in it for the long haul? Serving and loving our neighbors isn't a one and done event. We have to be willing to wait seasons and seasons to share God's love with people. Acts 26:27-29 ESV 27 King Agrippa, do you believe the prophets? I know that you believe.” 28 And Agrippa said to Paul, “In a short time would you persuade me to be a Christian?” 29 And Paul said, “Whether short or long, I would to God that not only you but also all who hear me this day might become such as I am—except for these chains.” Following Jesus and enjoying life are not opposite ends of the spectrum. Let's connect to learn more about how that can look in your own life. Let's connect on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, or ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠!

There are many approaches to sharing Jesus with people but Paul decided to abandon what people wanted and made it about what it is. There is a time and a place to be wise but the most important thing we can do is remind people the simplicity and splendor of what Jesus did for us. 1 Corinthians 2:1-2 ESV 1 And I, when I came to you, brothers, did not come proclaiming to you the testimony of God with lofty speech or wisdom. 2 For I decided to know nothing among you except Jesus Christ and him crucified. Following Jesus and enjoying life are not opposite ends of the spectrum. Let's connect to learn more about how that can look in your own life. Let's connect on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, or ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠!

This moment of prayer between Jesus and his Father are a perfect picture of how transparent we should be in our communication with God. He knows every detail of our lives, let's go to Him with an open heart but ready to say, "; not my will, but yours be done." Luke 22:42 NIV 42 “Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done.” Following Jesus and enjoying life are not opposite ends of the spectrum. Let's connect to learn more about how that can look in your own life. Let's connect on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, or ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠!

Today is a special day because it is "today". There will never be another March 22, 2024. It's a good time to share God's love with other people. Life has a funny way of bearing us under the mundane. Today's Scripture reminds us that we can be deceived by sin and have our hearts hardened towards God. Fight against this urger with prayer and the faithful exhortation of fellow believers. Hebrews 3:13 ESV 13 But exhort one another every day, as long as it is called “today,” that none of you may be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin Following Jesus and enjoying life are not opposite ends of the spectrum. Let's connect to learn more about how that can look in your own life. Let's connect on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, or ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠!

Traveling the world makes us feel safe because our passport will get us home. Your citizenship while in a foreign land will be respected and honored when you want to return home. Now imagine if we carried ourselves in life as citizens of heaven, rather than our physical nation. Although we've never seen the gates we can still live and claim identity as one of God's own. Philippians 3:20- ESV 20 But our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, 21 who will transform our lowly body to be like his glorious body, by the power that enables him even to subject all things to himself. Following Jesus and enjoying life are not opposite ends of the spectrum. Let's connect to learn more about how that can look in your own life. Let's connect on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, or ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠!

The storms of life can be daunting. But when you look out you might see God isn't as concerned or afraid as you are. That's okay. Take heart. He is strong and with you, even when he's going on His walkabout. Ask God to soften your heart daily. No matter the amount of time spent following Him, there is more to see and more to learn. Mark 6:48-52 ESV 48 He saw the disciples straining at the oars, because the wind was against them. Shortly before dawn he went out to them, walking on the lake. He was about to pass by them, 49 but when they saw him walking on the lake, they thought he was a ghost. They cried out, 50 because they all saw him and were terrified. Immediately he spoke to them and said, “Take courage! It is I. Don't be afraid.” 51 Then he climbed into the boat with them, and the wind died down. They were completely amazed, 52 for they had not understood about the loaves; their hearts were hardened. Following Jesus and enjoying life are not opposite ends of the spectrum. Let's connect to learn more about how that can look in your own life. Let's connect on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, or ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠!

Hoping against hope can sound impossible but that is the goodness of living a live with Christ within us. You have the ability, promise, and assurance to reach for something higher than yourself. I pray you hope against hope today. Surrender to God's love for you today. Romans 4:18 ESV 18 In hope he believed against hope, that he should become the father of many nations, as he had been told, “So shall your offspring be.” Following Jesus and enjoying life are not opposite ends of the spectrum. Let's connect to learn more about how that can look in your own life. Let's connect on ⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠, or ⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠!

It's hard to not be anxious these days. However, the Bible already knew this. God spoke through Luke, the physician, to remind us what God thinks of us and along with how he cares for all of His creation. Take a baby step to release your anxiety and trust God with the finer details of your life. Luke 12:22-26 ESV 22 And he said to his disciples, “Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat, nor about your body, what you will put on. 23 For life is more than food, and the body more than clothing. 24 Consider the ravens: they neither sow nor reap, they have neither storehouse nor barn, and yet God feeds them. Of how much more value are you than the birds! 25 And which of you by being anxious can add a single hour to his span of life? 26 If then you are not able to do as small a thing as that, why are you anxious about the rest? Following Jesus and enjoying life are not opposite ends of the spectrum. Let's connect to learn more about how that can look in your own life. Let's connect on ⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠, or ⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠!

Today is the day to lift someone else up. Look out for your neighbors and friends. Seek new and creative ways to build them up in their faith, resilience, and trust in the Lord Jesus. 1 Thessalonians 5:11 ESV 11 Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing. Following Jesus and enjoying life are not opposite ends of the spectrum. Let's connect to learn more about how that can look in your own life. Let's connect on ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠, or ⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠!

Our faith was not created by an entrepreneur during the Industrial Revolution, a thinker of the Renaissance, or any one person of the Greco-Roman time period. Our faith was built upon the words and works of Old Testament prophets and New Testament apostles; Christ himself is the very cornerstone of those two. Today, you're a part of God's dwelling place. Your faith does not exist in a vacuum. Ephesians 2:19-21 ESV 19 So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, 20 built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the cornerstone, 21 in whom the whole structure, being joined together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord. Following Jesus and enjoying life are not opposite ends of the spectrum. Let's connect to learn more about how that can look in your own life. Let's connect on ⁠Instagram⁠, ⁠Twitter⁠, ⁠Facebook⁠, or ⁠LinkedIn⁠!

Jesus foretells difficult trials for those who are his followers. But the foretelling is less about the specific things that will happen and more about the opportunities it will afford those who trust Him. Even in the midst of hard seasons and conversations, are we missing a chance to share Christ? Be bold, confident, and assured that God is with you in those rooms and spaces. Luke 21:10-15 ESV 10 Then he said to them, “Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. 11 There will be great earthquakes, and in various places famines and pestilences. And there will be terrors and great signs from heaven. 12 But before all this they will lay their hands on you and persecute you, delivering you up to the synagogues and prisons, and you will be brought before kings and governors for my name's sake. 13 This will be your opportunity to bear witness. 14 Settle it therefore in your minds not to meditate beforehand how to answer, 15 for I will give you a mouth and wisdom, which none of your adversaries will be able to withstand or contradict. Following Jesus and enjoying life are not opposite ends of the spectrum. Let's connect to learn more about how that can look in your own life. Let's connect on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, or LinkedIn!

Time is one of the most precious assets we are afforded. The more we spend it on ourselves, the more selfishly we see the world and want the world to be. Our desires will shift from us to Him as we spend more time with God in word, prayer, song, and fellowship. Delight in Him today. Psalms 37:4 ESV 4 Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart. Following Jesus and enjoying life are not opposite ends of the spectrum. Let's connect to learn more about how that can look in your own life. Let's connect on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, or LinkedIn!

What is motivating you today? Why do you perform as well or as poorly as you do? Today, consider every task to be for the Lord. The way you lead your family, the way you order your coffee, the way you love someone; consider it your opportunity to serve Jesus and not man. I hope your level of effort rises to the great purpose that you now have. Colossians 3:23-24 ESV 23 Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, 24 knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ. Following Jesus and enjoying life are not opposite ends of the spectrum. Let's connect to learn more about how that can look in your own life. Let's connect on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, or LinkedIn!

The little changes you make today can greatly impact your devotional life across a decade. Attempt to take one baby step closer to daily communing with Christ. Allow the word of Christ to dwell in your everyday life. Consider adjusting one piece of media intake into a devotional act with God. It will pay off and bring you closer to the Lord. Colossians 3:16 ESV 16 Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God. Following Jesus and enjoying life are not opposite ends of the spectrum. Let's connect to learn more about how that can look in your own life. Let's connect on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, or LinkedIn!

Abound in thanksgiving every day because of what Christ has done. Walk the journey. Enjoy the sights that he is taking you past. Each moment and day is an opportunity to grow and deepen your spiritual foundation in Christ Jesus. Appreciate the moments ahead of you. Colossians 2:6-7 ESV 6 Therefore, as you received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in him, 7 rooted and built up in him and established in the faith, just as you were taught, abounding in thanksgiving. Following Jesus and enjoying life are not opposite ends of the spectrum. Let's connect to learn more about how that can look in your own life. Let's connect on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, or LinkedIn!

Trials will come, but our faith should speak back. Remaining Godly and hopeful may seem impossible but with God nothing is impossible. Have that in every hard season that God is working on you and through you. Even when I failed to see the trials as a joy, I look back and realize God was still leading me through the trials. Now I can look back on those times with a smile and gratitude. James 1:2-3 ESV 2 Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, 3 for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness Following Jesus and enjoying life are not opposite ends of the spectrum. Let's connect to learn more about how that can look in your own life. Let's connect on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, or LinkedIn!

Everyday is an opportunity to see God work in your life. But the first thing we must do is to abide in Him and His Word. He is always speaking and active. We must slow down and listen for what He is doing among us. Then we will begin to see the fruit he is producing in our life. You are the most able person to reach those nearest to you. But first, focus on abiding. John 15:4-5 ESV 4 Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me. 5 I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing. Following Jesus and enjoying life are not opposite ends of the spectrum. Let's connect to learn more about how that can look in your own life. Let's connect on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, or LinkedIn!

If God is worth pursuing in scary moments, let's pursue Him even in mundane moments. Learn to trust God during the quiet times, and we'll be more confident and quicker to trust Him in the harder moments of life. I promise that God listens and cares even when the rest of the world might not. Psalms 119:76 ESV 76 Let your steadfast love comfort me according to your promise to your servant. Following Jesus and enjoying life are not opposite ends of the spectrum. Let's connect to learn more about how that can look in your own life. Let's connect on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, or LinkedIn!

Our life is full of hustle and bustle. We strive to do, perform, and achieve. But the Lord sustains. A night's rest is more than the body catching up with all of the doing the day before. Sleep is more than just a preparation for a day to come. The waking and sleeping are sustained by God himself. In 2023, let's learn to thank God for sustaining us another day. It is another opportunity to praise the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. Romans 3:5 ESV 5 I lay down and slept; I woke again, for the Lord sustained me. Following Jesus and enjoying life are not opposite ends of the spectrum. Let's connect to learn more about how that can look in your own life. Let's connect on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, or LinkedIn!

As of recent, my life has encountered real loss and heartache. But even in the face of these difficult seasons, I have an anchored hope because of what I believe Jesus has done for me. This episode's topic was to share the hope I have in Christ. The Gospel is present and ready for you to accept and live in and under. Romans 10:9-10 ESV 9 because, if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. 10 For with the heart one believes and is justified, and with the mouth one confesses and is saved. Following Jesus and enjoying life are not opposite ends of the spectrum. Let's connect to learn more about how that can look in your own life. Let's connect on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, or LinkedIn!

A temporary sacrifice is worth enduring when you know what the end goal is. Consider this for your own personal and professional goals but don't forget the goodness of God you're going to experience in eternity. These minor setbacks today are palatable because you know of the future glory you will see. Romans 8:18 ESV 18 For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us. Following Jesus and enjoying life are not opposite ends of the spectrum. Let's connect to learn more about how that can look in your own life. Let's connect on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, or LinkedIn!

Many of our dreams might not be accomplished in our day and that's okay. Have you ever thought about how a passion of yours could be achieved by the next generation? Our planning often stops at 18 minutes or 18 months. We don't often think about the long game but Godes. Consider how this lesson might apply to your life. 1 Kings 8:16-20 ESV 16 ‘Since the day that I brought my people Israel out of Egypt, I chose no city out of all the tribes of Israel in which to build a house, that my name might be there. But I chose David to be over my people Israel.' 17 Now it was in the heart of David my father to build a house for the name of the Lord, the God of Israel. 18 But the Lord said to David my father, ‘Whereas it was in your heart to build a house for my name, you did well that it was in your heart. 19 Nevertheless, you shall not build the house, but your son who shall be born to you shall build the house for my name.' 20 Now the Lord has fulfilled his promise that he made. For I have risen in the place of David my father, and sit on the throne of Israel, as the Lord promised, and I have built the house for the name of the Lord, the God of Israel Following Jesus and enjoying life are not opposite ends of the spectrum. Let's connect to learn more about how that can look in your own life. Let's connect on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, or LinkedIn!

Our God is able to empathize with our strongest temptations. This is because he suffered under temptation without ever giving in. For this reason, he knows the greatest strengths of temptation while we give in at lower weights of its pressure. Trust in his strength and ability to help you through your toughest times. Hebrews 2:18 ESV 18 For because he himself has suffered when tempted, he is able to help those who are being tempted. Following Jesus and enjoying life are not opposite ends of the spectrum. Let's connect to learn more about how that can look in your own life. Let's connect on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, or LinkedIn!

We all want to be the main character in the story. There is something exciting about getting to be the one (or seventy-two) that God has chosen for a task. It's about us and it's about glory. And if we don't see our life going the same route as the hero-figure; we will feel as though we are not doing God's will. I offer you the idea that God could still be using you as a person of peace. Don't neglect the grace that God extends for us to be one of the seventy-two or one of the places that makes room for them. You're still being used for God's glory, my friend. Trust Him. Luke 10:1-2, 6 ESV 1 After this the Lord appointed seventy-two others and sent them on ahead of him, two by two, into every town and place where he himself was about to go. 2 And he said to them, “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few. Therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest. 6 And if a son of peace is there, your peace will rest upon him. But if not, it will return to you. Following Jesus and enjoying life are not opposite ends of the spectrum. Let's connect to learn more about how that can look in your own life. Let's connect on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, or LinkedIn!

You never know how a small act will be taken into God's plan for someone's life. I encourage you to be faithful and trust God's work in the details. Commit your plans to Him and you'll be free to love people as God has equipped you to love them. Proverbs 16:3-4 ESV 3 Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established. 4 The Lord has made everything for its purpose, even the wicked for the day of trouble. Following Jesus and enjoying life are not opposite ends of the spectrum. Let's connect to learn more about how that can look in your own life. Let's connect on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, or LinkedIn!

It's good to memorize key verses and tenets of the faith but your mastery of God's love ought to be your first ambition. Giving yourself to walk as Christ walked will lead you to know the Truth and have a solid foundation of faith. Commit to loving God first and the intellect and wisdom will follow as gifts from God. Matthew 22:37-39 ESV 37 And he said to him, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. 38 This is the great and first commandment. 39 And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself. Following Jesus and enjoying life are not opposite ends of the spectrum. Let's connect to learn more about how that can look in your own life. Let's connect on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, or LinkedIn!

For me, I love the very center of a cinnamon roll. It's the sweetest, gooiest, and best part of the delicious treat. But more than that bite, I love my wife and if she wants that piece then I'll give it to her. This is a small picture of what God's love can look like for us. He puts in all of the work and we get the final piece and get to lift our arms in victory after the race. Love God, love your spouse, share your cinnamon roll. 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 ESV 4 Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant 5 or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; 6 it does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth. 7 Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Following Jesus and enjoying life are not opposite ends of the spectrum. Let's connect to learn more about how that can look in your own life. Let's connect on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, or LinkedIn!

The New Year has kicked off, and you have already failed your resolution. It's okay. It's time to get back up and pursue the more fantastic future ahead than dwell on the minor setback behind you. Remember that God is holding your hand through this next season. Join this Bible in a Year plan: https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/29244 Psalms 37:23-24 ESV 23 The steps of a man are established by the Lord, when he delights in his way; 24 though he fall, he shall not be cast headlong, for the Lord upholds his hand. Following Jesus and enjoying life are not opposite ends of the spectrum. Let's connect to learn more about how that can look in your own life. Let's connect on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, or LinkedIn!

Evangelism can be easy to approach if you have the correct perspective. It does not have to be a big show with tears every time you share. Instead, see it as an opportunity to share with a friend. Do not force or expect a decision. Simply trust God, share, and have a conversation. Psalms 96:2 ESV 2 Sing to the Lord, bless his name; tell of his salvation from day to day. Following Jesus and enjoying life are not opposite ends of the spectrum. Let's connect to find out more about how that can look in your own life. Let's connect on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, or LinkedIn!

Happy Thanksgiving! I hope you have a blessed day, hug a loved one, and enjoy your favorite dish. Don't forget to give thanks to God on this day. He has blessed you, is blessing you, and will continue to bless you. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 ESV 16 Rejoice always, 17 pray continually, 18 give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. Following Jesus and enjoying life are not opposite ends of the spectrum. Let's connect to find out more about how that can look in your own life. Let's connect on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, or LinkedIn!

If you have ever encountered a difficult conversation around your faith, take heart. Your knowledge and imagination cannot see or explain every facet of what God is doing. Your unknown moments are the perfect place for your faith to activate. Allow it to do so with confidence and then be okay to look up things you are unsure of. There are many areas in life where our knowledge can grow while another area will simply require faith to take the lead. 1 Corinthians 2:9-10 ESV 9 But, as it is written, “What no eye has seen, nor ear heard, nor the heart of man imagined, what God has prepared for those who love him”— 10 these things God has revealed to us through the Spirit. For the Spirit searches everything, even the depths of God. Following Jesus and enjoying life are not opposite ends of the spectrum. Let's connect to find out more about how that can look in your own life. Let's connect on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, or LinkedIn!

Every season has a reason (not just Christmas). But are you giving yourself permission to feel the joy, the pain, the loss, the hope? I would challenge you to see how Jesus is still walking with you up the hills and through the valleys. Ecclesiastes 3:1 ESV 1 For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven: Following Jesus and enjoying life are not opposite ends of the spectrum. Let's connect to find out more about how that can look in your own life. Let's connect on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, or LinkedIn!

As soon as Judas walks out of the room, Jesus drops one of the most important lines for our Christian faith. Imagine the air in that room. How wonderful would it have been to see that moment in history. Today, we reread these words and remind ourselves the importance of living that very simple truth..love one another. It's by that love that the world will know that we are His disciples. John 13:34-35 ESV 34 A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. 35 By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” Following Jesus and enjoying life are not opposite ends of the spectrum. Let's connect to find out more about how that can look in your own life. Let's connect on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, or LinkedIn!

That's a big promise, especially during Pumpkin Spice Latte season. Think about how many life changes you make in order to find satisfaction, peace, joy, and fulfillment. Now remember that you have a relationship with the creator of the universe. Your ultimate fulfillment can come straight from Him and through Him. Allow yourself to dwell and meditate on how God's love can quench your thirst and satisfy your hunger. Allow God to do this and you'll reach a new level of peace that any new purchase could never attain. John 6:35 ESV 35 Then Jesus declared, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never go hungry, and whoever believesin me will never be thirsty. Following Jesus and enjoying life are not opposite ends of the spectrum. Let's connect to find out more about how that can look in your own life. Let's connect on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, or LinkedIn!

Are you striving on a daily basis for food, love, acceptance, or purpose? This piece of the Psalms appears to have a stark challenge to the way that you and I live life. God created nature to exist and be not strive and stress. I challenge you to lay down your stress today in order to grab hold of God's provision in your life. Psalms 104:21 ESV 21 The young lions roar for their prey, seeking their food from God. Following Jesus and enjoying life are not opposite ends of the spectrum. Let's connect to find out more about how that can look in your own life. Let's connect on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, or LinkedIn!

This one is a little different. My family would appreciate your prayers as we walk together through this tough time. "Highlands (Song of Ascent)" - Hillsong United Oh, how high would I climb mountains If the mountains were where You hide Oh, how far I'd scale the valleys If You graced the other side And, oh, how long have I chased rivers From lowly seas to where they rise Against the rush of grace descending From the source of its supply 'Cause in the highlands and the heartache You're neither more or less inclined I would search and stop at nothing You're just not that hard to find I will praise on the mountain And I will praise you when the mountain is in my way You're the summit where my feet are So I will praise You in the valleys all the same No less God within the shadows No less faithful when the night leads me astray 'Cause You're the heaven where my heart is In the highlands and the heartache all the same Oh Oh, how far beneath Your glory Does Your kindness extend apart From where Your feet rest on the sunrise To where You sweep the sinner's past And oh, how fast would You come running? If just to shadow me through the night Trace my steps through all my failure And walk me out the other side For who could dare ascend that mountain That valleyed hill called Calvary But for the one I call Good Shepherd Who like a lamb was slain for me Oh, I will praise You on the mountain (you sing) I will praise You when the mountains in my way You're the summit where my feet are So I will praise you in the valley all the same No less God within the shadows And no less faithful when the night leads me astray 'Cause You're the heaven where my heart is In the highlands and the heartache all the same Oh, oh, oh (sing it out) Whatever I walk through Wherever I am Your name can move mountains Wherever I stand And if ever I walk through The valley of death I'll sing through the shadows My song of ascent Whatever I walk through Wherever I am Your Name can move mountains Wherever I stand And if ever I walk through The valley of death I'll sing through the shadows My song of ascent My song of ascent Oh, oh, oh (and sing it out) My song of ascent Oh, oh, oh From the gravest of all valley Come the pasture we call grace A mighty river flowing upward From a deep but empty grave So I will praise You on the mountain I will praise You when the mountains in my way You're the summit where my feet are (yes You are) I will praise you in the valley all the same No less God within the shadows No less faithful when the night leads me astray You're the heaven where my heart is In the highlands and the heartache all the same Writers: Benjamin William Hastings and Joel Houston Following Jesus and enjoying life are not opposite ends of the spectrum. Let's connect to find out more about how that can look in your own life. Let's connect on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, or LinkedIn!

Today's podcast should give you a sense of peace and confidence. As a Christian, you did not earn your salvation. If you're unsure of how to attain salvation then I hope this message also gives you some insight into how you can be saved by God and not yourself. And lastly, the good news is that God has created you on purpose and with a purpose. Ephesians 2:8-10 ESV 8 For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, 9 not a result of works, so that no one may boast. 10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them. Following Jesus and enjoying life are not opposite ends of the spectrum. Let's connect to find out more about how that can look in your own life. Let's connect on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, or LinkedIn!

God is not a hermit with an inapproachable celebrity mentality. He walked as we walked and felt every bit of temptation that life could throw at him. Now his position by the Father gives us access to his mercy, grace, and relationship. Jesus can be trusted because of His leadership to our lives. Hebrews 4:14-16 ESV 14 Since then we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. 15 For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. 16 Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need. Following Jesus and enjoying life are not opposite ends of the spectrum. Let's connect to find out more about how that can look in your own life. Let's connect on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, or LinkedIn!

Our lives are full of decisions. If we make the right choice when people are living with ulterior motives. But the right thing done in private speaks to our character and integrity. Live for God in public, at church, is easy and assumed. Living for God and honoring Him in private reveals the state of your heart and trust that you truly do have in him. As you do the right things, even when people are not looking, then no one will have a credible bad thing to say about you. Psalm 119:1-3 ESV 1 Blessed are those whose way is blameless, who walk in the law of the Lord! 2 Blessed are those who keep his testimonies, who seek him with their whole heart, 3 who also do no wrong, but walk in his ways! Read full chapter Following Jesus and enjoying life are not opposite ends of the spectrum. Let's connect to find out more about how that can look in your own life. Let's connect on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, or LinkedIn!

As humans, we are naturally wired to find community. The problem is that when we allow community to stumble upon us it will only affect us to a certain degree intentional community allows us to love and serve others as others are seeking to reciprocate God's love. Seek these types of fellowships and you will be better equipped to take on life's difficulties. Acts 2:42 ESV 2 “And they devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers.” Following Jesus and enjoying life are not opposite ends of the spectrum. Let's connect to find out more about how that can look in your own life. Let's connect on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, or LinkedIn!

The idea of being pruned in any sense is never a fun thought. But the value and benefit and pruning is for the greater good of yourself and others around you. Every time someone visits the gym or runs the track, they are pushing their body to a limit to see it come back stronger. The same thing can be thought about our spiritual development while following and trusting Jesus. Have hope in the pruning process, check-in on someone else's pruning process, and reflect on what fruit that you yourself are producing. John 15:1-2 ESV 1 “I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinedresser. 2 Every branch in me that does not bear fruit he takes away, and every branch that does bear fruit he prunes, that it may bear more fruit.s. Following Jesus and enjoying life are not opposite ends of the spectrum. Let's connect to find out more about how that can look in your own life. Let's connect on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, or LinkedIn!

If God has rescued you then you are on the path of growth development. Any new believer is learning new things and implementing new spiritual practices that were not an original instinct. But this path toward's Christ's righteousness is both an already present reality and a journey to make it our own. Philippians 3 reminds us to strive but to do so humbly in order to honor God not ourselves. Philippians 3:12-14 ESV 12 Not that I have already obtained this or am already perfect, but I press on to make it my own, because Christ Jesus has made me his own. 13 Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, 14 I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. Following Jesus and enjoying life are not opposite ends of the spectrum. Let's connect to find out more about how that can look in your own life. Let's connect on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, or LinkedIn!

Loving and honoring people is not so complicated. It just requires us to set aside our desire to be served and the result is others are valued. When we are looking into the interests of others rather than our own, this is when true love and service begin. Seek to glorify Him by serving others. 1 Corinthians 10:23, 31 ESV 23 “All things are lawful,” but not all things are helpful. “All things are lawful,” but not all things build up. 31 So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God. Following Jesus and enjoying life are not opposite ends of the spectrum. Let's connect to find out more about how that can look in your own life. Let's connect on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, or LinkedIn!

There are a number of different things that we can do to better improve ourselves and those around us. The great thing we could do is live up to the greatest commandment that Jesus speaks of in Matthew 22. Give yourself permission to grow in this area of your life today. It will bless you and others if you hold to them. Matthew 22:35-40 ESV 35 And one of them, a lawyer, asked him a question to test him. 36 “Teacher, which is the great commandment in the Law?” 37 And he said to him, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. 38 This is the great and first commandment. 39 And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself. 40 On these two commandments depend all the Law and the Prophets.” Following Jesus and enjoying life are not opposite ends of the spectrum. Let's connect to find out more about how that can look in your own life. Let's connect on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, or LinkedIn!

Philippians 4:13 is a verse that is often taken to mean that you can achieve your American Dream through God. However, the core of the verse speaks more to who God is in our abundance and our need. God's strength and sustenance for us is greater than our status or success. Learning to turn, follow, and trust Him in every season of life is key to achieving peace in Him. Philippians 4:10-13 ESV 10 I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that now at length you have revived your concern for me. You were indeed concerned for me, but you had no opportunity. 11 Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. 12 I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. 13 I can do all things through him who strengthens me. Following Jesus and enjoying life are not opposite ends of the spectrum. Let's connect to find out more about how that can look in your own life. Let's connect on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, or LinkedIn!

When I say this, I don't mean to find yourself a follower. I mean for you to look for the person that is being overlooked and forgotten about. Remind them that they are still loved and seen by God. None of us feels like we are the center of God's world when He's constantly doing so many things...but even Jesus wasn't distracted by the crowd. He still saw and valued Levi. Look for your Levi, make an impact in someone's day. Mark 2:13-14 ESV 13 He went out again beside the sea, and all the crowd was coming to him, and he was teaching them. 14 And as he passed by, he saw Levi the son of Alphaeus sitting at the tax booth, and he said to him, “Follow me.” And he rose and followed him. Following Jesus and enjoying life are not opposite ends of the spectrum. Let's connect to find out more about how that can look in your own life. Let's connect on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, or LinkedIn!