Podcast by Chestnut Ridge Church
In this episode of Side Notes, Pastors Arch and Josh kick off our new series, "Why We Sing," with a blend of laughs and insight, including sunburns, concert confessions, and a serious love for Forrest Frank. But beyond the stories, they dive into Psalm 145 and explore why singing matters in our worship. Whether you're a loud-and-proud vocalist or someone who barely sings above a whisper, they encourage us to see singing as a way to declare God's greatness and connect more deeply with Him.
In the first message of our new series, "Why We Sing," we look at Psalm 145 and explore the heart behind why Christians sing in worship. Singing isn't just a part of the service—it's a way we respond to who God is. His majesty, compassion, faithfulness, and love are unmatched, and when we lift our voices, we're doing more than making music—we're making a declaration. We sing to declare the greatness of God.
Feeling worn out? You're not alone. In this episode of Side Notes, Pastors Josh and Arch talk about why The Ridge hit pause on in-person services—and why creating a rhythm of work and rest isn't just helpful, it's Biblical. They get real about ministry life, burnout, and why rest is not laziness—it's obedience. They share personal stories (and hilarious waffle reviews), talk about the cultural pressure to always be on, and explore why God's rhythm of six days of work and one day of rest might be the most life-giving pattern we can follow.
It's halftime in 2025—and if you're feeling worn out, this Sabbath message is for you. Pastors Josh and Andrew talk about God's design for work and rest, how Jesus modeled it, and how we can build habits that refill what life has drained. Take a breath. Be refreshed. Let's step into the second half of the year with full cups. // Verses and message notes: www.theridge.church/notes // Join us online or in person Sundays at 9a + 11a: www.theridge.church/live
On this episode of Side Notes, Pastor Tim joins Pastor Arch to wrap up our "Third Person" series with laughs (yes, birds and Beverly Hillbillies), stories, and powerful truths about the Holy Spirit's work in our lives. From boldness to transformation, we talk about walking with the Spirit daily—and why it's so easy to miss the treasure we already have.
Many believers today live like spiritual paupers, unaware of the incredible riches they already have through the Holy Spirit. As we conclude our "Third Person" series, Pastor Tim unpacks seven powerful ways the Holy Spirit works in our lives—from giving us new life to equipping us with spiritual gifts. God's Spirit doesn't just visit us—He lives within us, making it possible not just to get by, but truly thrive. // Verses and message notes: www.theridge.church/notes // Join us online or in person Sundays at 9a + 11a: www.theridge.church/live
What does it look like to pursue unity in the church while holding firm to truth? In this episode of Side Notes, Pastors Arch and Josh dive into week two of our 'Third Person' series, exploring the person and work of the Holy Spirit. They unpack foundational beliefs like Scripture alone, faith alone, and Christ alone, while also talking through how to stay rooted in Scripture, approach theological differences with humility, and grow in relationship with the Spirit who is active in our lives today.
Continuing our "Third Person" series, Pastor Andrew shares insights from his unique Catholic-Charismatic background and how it shaped his understanding of the Holy Spirit. He explores the vital role of God the Spirit in Jesus' life and ministry—from His miraculous conception and baptism to His empowered mission—and how the Spirit ignited the birth and growth of the early church. // Verses and message notes: www.theridge.church/notes // Join us online or in person Sundays at 9a + 11a: www.theridge.church/live
In this episode of Side Notes, Pastors Josh and Arch pull back the curtain on the heart and hustle behind preaching. They talk candidly about what it's like to wrestle with theology, seek feedback from trusted voices, and teach with clarity, humility, and love for the church. From the nerves of teaching on the Trinity to the encouragement of the “200 sermon rule,” this conversation highlights the importance of staying teachable, leaning into community, and giving yourself grace as you grow.
Pastor Josh begins our "Third Person" series with a clear and Biblical look at the Holy Spirit—who He is and what He does. Often misunderstood or overlooked, the Spirit of God has been present and active since creation, empowering leaders, guiding prophets, and shaping God's people. Understanding the Holy Spirit isn't optional—it's essential for every believer. // Verses and message notes: www.theridge.church/notes // Join us online or in person Sundays at 9a + 11a: www.theridge.church/live
Join Pastor Josh and our High School Director, Brittany Luzier, on Side Notes as they dive into the complex relationship between technology and faith. From reminiscing about the iconic Nokia “blue brick” phones to discussing the challenges of digital distractions, they explore how technology affects our hearts and minds. In this episode, they share personal stories and practical advice for setting healthy boundaries with devices, encouraging intentional use, and protecting our families—especially kids and teens—from the pitfalls of the digital age. Whether you're a parent, student, or simply looking to live more mindfully in a tech-driven world, this conversation offers hope, guidance, and encouragement for stewarding your time and attention well.
Pastor Josh concludes our "I Might Have a Problem" series by exploring the impact of technology and phone addiction on our daily lives. He discusses how digital devices can both distract us and serve as tools for good, offering practical ways to set healthy boundaries and stay connected to God and others. // Verses and message notes: www.theridge.church/notes // Join us online or in person Sundays at 9a + 11a: www.theridge.church/live
Welcome to Side Notes, where we take you behind the curtain for deeper conversations around the Sunday message at The Ridge. Join Senior Pastor Josh and Founding Pastor Tim Haring as they unpack spiritual truths, share personal stories, and explore practical ways to live out faith in today's challenging world. In this episode, Josh and Tim dive into the fifth week of the "I Might Have a Problem" series, focusing on the power of our thoughts—what we allow in our minds and how it shapes our lives. They discuss confronting negative thoughts with Scripture, leaning on Christ for victory, and the importance of prayer, community, and professional help when needed. Plus, get a glimpse of their summer plans and some fun pastor stories along the way! Tune in for honest, encouraging dialogue that will help you decide today what you will or will not allow yourself to think about—for the sake of tomorrow.
We all have thoughts that seem to play on repeat—worries, regrets, fears, temptations, and even anger. These intrusive thoughts can feel relentless and overwhelming, but God's Word offers hope and help. In this week's message, Pastor Tim explores how we can confront negative thoughts with Biblical truth, cling to Christ for victory, and call out to God for help. As we anchor our minds in what's true, we begin to experience the peace God offers in the middle of the mental battle. // Verses and message notes: www.theridge.church/notes // Join us online or in person Sundays at 9a + 11a: www.theridge.church/live
How do you know when to have a hard conversation—and how to have it with grace? In this episode of Side Notes, Arch and Brandy unpack a practical, heartfelt approach to conflict. Learn how to discern if something is worth bringing up (or just a “nothingburger”), why your expectations matter, and how to invite God into the process—even when it's messy. But first: it's Memorial Day recaps, arcade generosity, Crocs on the court (don't try this at home), and a hopeful mug souvenir named “Gary” from Josh's Myrtle Beach vacation. Arch and Brandy swap stories about chilly ball fields, celebrating the end of the school year, playing basketball in questionable footwear, and why applause buttons should be labeled more clearly. Then we dive into the real talk: what do we do when conflict arises? From prayerful preparation to wise timing and humble conversations, this episode gives you a thoughtful framework—Nothingburgers, Red Flags, and Head Scratchers—to help you navigate tough situations well.
Relationships are messy—and we all know it. Whether it's tension with a spouse, a frustrating coworker, or unmet expectations with family, conflict is unavoidable. But what if the first step toward healthier relationships starts not with them, but with us? This week, Pastor Andrew unpacks Jesus' teaching from the Sermon on the Mount and shows how gospel humility, a clear view of Christ, and real accountability can help us stop pointing fingers and start looking in the mirror. // Verses and message notes: www.theridge.church/notes // Join us online or in person Sundays at 9a + 11a: www.theridge.church/live
In this episode of Side Notes, Pastors Arch and Josh dive into one of the toughest conversations out there: money. Reflecting on Josh's recent message from The Ridge's series I Might Have a Problem, they unpack a simple but powerful truth—“Honor God with how you give, save, and live with His money.” Josh breaks down the message's three biblical anchors (giving, saving, and living within our means), and together they clarify common misunderstandings—like why the Bible doesn't actually say money is the root of all evil. Of course, it wouldn't be Side Notes without some laughs along the way. From joking about Josh's 19th wedding anniversary dinner plans to Arch roasting branded golf balls he couldn't wait to “hit into the woods,” their banter sets the stage for an honest, insightful, and surprisingly fun conversation about finances, faith, and what really matters.
Continuing our "I Might Have a Problem" series, Pastor Josh explores our complicated relationship with money—and how it often reveals deeper spiritual issues. Through Biblical truth and practical steps, we learn how to honor God by how we give, save, and live with what He's entrusted to us. // Verses and message notes: www.theridge.church/notes // Join us online or in person Sundays at 9a + 11a: www.theridge.church/live
This week on Side Notes, Arch is joined not by senior pastor Josh Rhodes—but by someone even more seasoned and, as Arch says, “definitely more handsome”: our founding pastor, Tim Haring. The episode kicks off with a hilarious and oddly heartwarming conversation about snakes, old-school adrenaline, and growing up with 19 snakes in the garage (yep, you read that right). After some laughs and wildlife stories, Arch and Tim shift gears to talk about this week's message from The Ridge's current teaching series, "I Might Have a Problem." This message wasn't your typical talk on Sabbath or work-life balance. Instead, Josh zoomed out and asked a bigger question: Why does how we use our time even matter? Arch and Tim unpack the deeper spiritual implications behind this question, highlighting Josh's connection between our time and eternity. With references to Psalm 90, written by Moses, they reflect on the fleeting nature of life, the weight of eternal relationships, and why how we spend our days matters in light of the life to come. If you've ever felt like your calendar runs your life—or like you're too busy to focus on what matters most—this conversation is a timely reminder that our time isn't just about productivity. It's about purpose.
This week, Pastor Josh continues our series "I Might Have a Problem" by tackling our overloaded schedules. With only 168 hours each week, how we spend our time reveals what we value most. Using the illustration of rocks, pebbles, and sand, Pastor Josh encourages us to prioritize what matters most—loving God, others, and ourselves—with eternity in mind. // Verses and message notes: www.theridge.church/notes // Join us online or in person Sundays at 9a + 11a: www.theridge.church/live
In this episode, Pastors Arch and Josh kick things off with a fun and relatable conversation about nostalgic gaming, Monday mornings, and video gaming with their kids. They swap stories about Astro Bot, College Football 25, and the glory days of the Nintendo 64—plus the joy (and noise) of a PS4. But it's not all fun and games. The conversation shifts to a deeper discussion around The Ridge's brand-new series, “I Might Have a Problem.” This week's message focused on the often-overlooked connection between faith and physical health. Josh shares candidly about his own history with the infamous “Fizzinator” and years of Mountain Dew-fueled lawn mowing, tying it all into a powerful call to reflect on how we steward our bodies. It's a message rooted in grace, not guilt—one that reminds us that God cares about every part of our lives, including what we eat, how we move, and how we care for ourselves.
Pastor Josh kicks off our new series, "I Might Have a Problem," by exploring why physical health matters to God and how stewarding our bodies is a vital part of honoring Him. // Verses and message notes: www.theridge.church/notes // Join us online or in person Sundays at 9a + 11a: www.theridge.church/live
Before diving into the deep stuff, Josh kicks things off with an unexpectedly passionate review of Walmart's Prima Della maple honey ham—and a full-on deli discourse that includes sandwich tips, cheese slicing preferences, and a comical encounter with a hardworking (and possibly half-deer?) Walmart employee. It's a fun, slightly unhinged start that sets the tone before we pivot to some deeper reflections from the Easter message. But don't worry—we eventually get to the good stuff. Josh and Arch take us into 1 Corinthians 15, unpacking Paul's powerful message about the resurrection and what it means to live victoriously—not just forever, but right now. They dig into how our secure future in Christ shapes how we face today's struggles with boldness and hope. Along the way, you'll hear reflections from the Easter message, behind-the-scenes stories, and a preview of the new series, I Might Have a Problem—where we'll confront modern challenges like our health, frantic schedules, money habits, relationships, and yes... even our phones. It's a little bit deli, a little bit theology, and a whole lot of real life.
In this Easter message, Pastor Josh shares how Jesus' resurrection changes everything. Life can feel messy and uncertain—but through Jesus, we're given a clear and certain hope. When He walked out of the tomb, He didn't just win His victory—He secured ours too. Because of Jesus, we can live victoriously today and forever, no matter what we face. // Verses and message notes: www.theridge.church/notes // Join us online or in person Sundays at 9a + 11a: www.theridge.church/live
“If Christ has not been raised, your faith is worthless... Let us eat and drink, for tomorrow we die.” —1 Corinthians 15 What if the resurrection never happened? In this message from Pastor Andrew Archer, we reflect on the Apostle Paul's bold statement in 1 Corinthians 15—a passage that makes it clear: the resurrection of Jesus is not just important, it's essential. Without it, faith crumbles. Hope fades. Sin reigns. Death wins. But this isn't just a theological claim—it's one that has captured the attention of scholars around the world. One researcher, beginning with a modest attempt to update his resurrection bibliography, found himself overwhelmed by the sheer scope of the subject. The resurrection of Jesus remains one of the most rigorously examined events in ancient history. This video brings together the theological power of Paul's message and the intellectual depth of modern scholarship to ask: Did Jesus really rise from the dead—and what does that mean for us today? Whether you're a believer seeking deeper faith or a skeptic searching for clarity, this is a conversation worth having.
In this final episode of our special Holy Week edition of Side Notes, Pastors Arch and Josh reflect on the quiet and often overlooked day between the cross and the resurrection. As they explore Mark 15:42–47, they dive into the burial of Jesus—an act marked by boldness, reverence, and unexpected grace. Together, they unpack the historical and cultural context of timekeeping in the ancient Jewish world, the significance of Joseph of Arimathea's courageous request, and the emotions stirred by this silent Saturday. It's a slower, sacred moment—one that invites us to sit, reflect, and prepare our hearts for what's to come. Join us as we finish Holy Week strong, walking step-by-step through the final moments before resurrection.
In this special Holy Week edition of Side Notes, Arch and Pastor Josh take a powerful journey into the heart of Good Friday. They kick things off with a fun exchange on the chaos of sleepovers and the mysteriousness of Josh, but quickly shift focus to the most significant event in history: Jesus' crucifixion. After diving into a bit of background on the good news of the Gospel, Arch and Josh explore the agonizing moments leading up to Jesus' death, reading Mark 15:16-41, and reflecting on what it means that Jesus, the solution to humanity's sin, sacrificed Himself for us. This episode is filled with moments of deep reflection, raw honesty, and a reminder of God's incredible love for us. Tune in for an episode that balances real-life conversation with a powerful look at the events of Good Friday. **Please be advised that a portion of the episode includes a detailed and graphic description of Jesus' physical suffering during His crucifixion. The content is intense and may be difficult for some listeners. We encourage you to listen with care and consideration, as the purpose is to reflect deeply on His sacrifice and love for us.**
Get ready for a Holy Week episode packed with surprises! Arch and Pastor Josh kick things off with a laugh-worthy story about 4AM wakeups and a mysterious trip (spoiler: you'll have to come to Easter to find out why). But it's not long before the conversation takes a powerful turn, diving deep into Jesus' trial, His unexpected silence before Pilate, and the jaw-dropping release of Barabbas. Why would a crowd choose a criminal over the innocent Son of God? And what does our response to Jesus' sacrifice say about us? Through thoughtful reflections and personal moments, Arch and Josh explore the shocking choices of both Pilate and Barabbas, and what it means for each of us today. Will we, like Barabbas, accept the gift of freedom Jesus offers, or turn away? Don't miss this thought-provoking conversation that ends on an unforgettable note—one day, every knee will bow and every tongue will confess that Jesus is the King of Kings.
In the Garden of Gethsemane, Jesus falls under the crushing weight of what's to come—sweating blood, praying for another way, and yet choosing surrender. In this Holy Week episode, Pastors Arch and Josh unpack the deep symbolism of the olive press, the “cup” of God's wrath, and the heartbreak of betrayal. Jesus wasn't a victim—He was a volunteer. And in His most human moment, He shows us how to pray when we're at our lowest.
Welcome to a special Holy Week edition of Side Notes! In today's episode, Arch and Josh are back at it—half hungry, half holy—as they dive into Day 2 of Jesus' final week. Pop-Tarts, pocket watches, and the power of the Last Supper—Arch and Josh dive into Mark 14 and unpack how Jesus redefined the Passover meal, introduced a new covenant, and modeled servant leadership by washing feet the night before the cross. From deep theology to personal stories, this episode explores the tension of grief and grace, and why communion is more than a ritual—it's a daily rhythm of freedom, remembrance, and hope.
In this special Holy Week edition of Side Notes, Pastors Arch and Josh launch a daily podcast series to guide the church through the last week of Jesus' earthly life—culminating in His death and resurrection. With their usual mix of casual humor (go Duke!) and heartfelt reflection, they dive deep into Scripture, theology, and real-life application. Pastors Arch and Josh walk through the story of Jesus cleansing the temple (Mark 11:15–19) and what it means for us today. Their honest, thoughtful conversation blends historical context, theological depth, and real-life reflection—creating space for listeners to not just understand the story, but to respond to it. Ultimately, this episode reminds us of Jesus' fierce love, His passion for justice, and His deep desire for all people to come to Him freely. And it challenges each of us to make sure we're not just flipping tables, but opening doors.
Pastor Tim joins us for the "Path of Victory" series, guiding us through the final week of Jesus' life and the extraordinary love He displayed on the way to the cross. From Palm Sunday to the Last Supper, the cleansing of the temple to the crucifixion, every moment pointed to a Savior who loved fully and faithfully. Jesus' love wasn't just shown in words, but in every step He took to secure our salvation. // Verses and message notes: www.theridge.church/notes // Join us online or in person Sundays at 9a + 11a: www.theridge.church/live
We're kicking off this week's Side Notes with a late-in-the-day recording—life happens, and so do scheduling conflicts! Arch and Josh kick things off with some laughs about Baja Blast regrets, YouTube TV mishaps, and March Madness predictions (go Houston!). We also celebrate the return of Timothy Paul Haring to the preaching lineup—bearded, robed, and ready after six months away. From basketball throwbacks and dad jokes to deep dives into miracles and resurrection, this episode covers it all. We explore how understanding the context of scripture brings the Bible to life, why doubts are a natural part of faith, and how study tools like the CSB and NLT Study Bibles can help us grow. Oh, and Micah's take on calling Lazarus out of the tomb? You won't want to miss it. Join us as we reflect, laugh, and walk closer with Jesus.
Continuing "Path of Victory," Pastor Josh explores one of Jesus' most powerful miracles—raising Lazarus from the dead. More than just a display of power, this moment reveals Jesus' deep love, complete dependence on the Father, and call to abide in Him. In this message, we'll discover how true strength to live for Christ comes not from our own efforts but from abiding in Him. // Verses and message notes: www.theridge.church/notes // Join us online or in person Sundays at 9a + 11a: www.theridge.church/live
Ever fallen for a scam? Pastor Josh has—and he's sharing the cringeworthy details in this episode of Side Notes! From accidental YouTube TV charges to almost losing money on a sketchy Venmo deal, we're talking about the importance of recognizing truth before it's too late. Josh and Arch also dive into Jesus' teachings from the Sermon on the Mount, unpacking why so many people ignore wisdom until their foundation crumbles. Plus, a heartfelt reflection on the highs and lows of foster care reminds us that life is a mix of joy and challenge. Tune in for laughs, lessons, and a little redemption!
In a world filled with deception, what's your foundation? Continuing our "Path of Victory" series, Pastor Josh unpacks Jesus' teaching in Matthew 7, challenging us to not just hear God's Truth—but to live it and build our lives on it. // Verses and message notes: www.theridge.church/notes // Join us online or in person Sundays at 9a + 11a: www.theridge.church/live
This episode of Side Notes has it all—rock-paper-scissors showdowns, an epic Buffalo Wild Wings buffet, and a heartfelt tribute to a beloved church leader. Join Arch and Josh as they relive the unforgettable moments from the Unite event, from competitive hand games to celebrating Bruce Lane's incredible impact on the community (and the missing W). Plus, hear about a life-or-death camping adventure that proves friendship is best tested in the wild—preferably with photographic evidence! The conversation takes a deeper turn as the hosts dive into the start of Jesus' ministry, exploring His baptism, temptation, and the calling of His disciples. They unpack how these moments reveal both His humanity and divine nature, making Him the ultimate example of trust and faith. Personal stories, graduation speeches, and everyday acts of kindness tie it all together, reminding us that faith isn't just about grand gestures—it's about showing up, trusting God, and taking the next right step.
We trust in countless things every day—but when it comes to God, we often hesitate, demanding more proof before stepping out in faith. Continuing our "Path of Victory" series, Pastor Andrew Archer explores how Jesus perfectly modeled trust in the Father. What does it look like for us to trust God in the same way? // Verses and message notes: www.theridge.church/notes // Join us online or in person Sundays at 9a + 11a: www.theridge.church/live
Board game battles, March Madness heartbreak, and a little undercover church mischief—this week's Side Notes has it all! Arch and Josh kick things off with a friendly debate over strategy games (Catan vs. Connect 4, anyone?) before diving into some painful sports news. The conversation takes a deeper turn as they explore the humility of Jesus—what it really meant for Him to step into humanity, face struggles, and even (probably) be an elite first-century carpenter-athlete. From biblical history to leadership lessons to the ultimate board game grudge match, this episode has plenty of laughs, insight, and maybe even a little theological smack talk.
We often chase after status, comfort, and control—but Jesus showed us a different way. As we begin our Easter series, "Path of Victory," Pastor Josh explores the humble beginnings of Jesus' life, from His birth in a manger to His years of quiet preparation. His path of victory didn't start with power or prestige—it began with humility. // Verses and message notes: www.theridge.church/notes // Join us online or in person Sundays at 9a + 11a: www.theridge.church/live
Time zones, gumball machines, and the sweet chaos of birthday parties—this episode of Side Notes has it all! Arch and Josh catch up after a busy weekend, sharing stories about air travel perks, family outings, and unexpected moments from Sunday's message. They dive into the final week of The Acts of Prayer series, reflecting on the importance of personal prayer and trusting God with our needs. Plus, there's a hilarious moment involving a near-gumball-disaster backstage! Tune in for laughs, encouragement, and a reminder that God loves hearing from us—gumballs and all.
Pastor Josh concludes our "ACTS of Prayer" series with a powerful message on the importance of bringing our needs to God. While we readily pray for others, we often hesitate to ask for help ourselves—whether out of guilt, doubt, or fear of seeming selfish. Yet Scripture assures us that God welcomes our prayers and invites us to come to Him daily, specifically, and confidently. // Verses and message notes: www.theridge.church/notes // Join us online or in person Sundays at 9a + 11a: www.theridge.church/live
Time machines, raccoon heists, and the joys (and woes) of air travel—this episode of Side Notes is packed with the unexpected! Join Arch and Josh as they navigate cross-time communication (or just different time zones), debate the perils of airline seating, and explore how a simple question about prayer sparked something special at home. It's a mix of humor, heartfelt moments, and a deeper dive into Sunday's message at The Ridge. From the challenges of praying for enemies to what to do when it feels like our prayers fall flat, this episode is all about trusting the bigger picture—even when the middle seat feels a little cramped. Buckle up for a ride full of unexpected moments and plenty of insights!
What does it mean to practice supplication—praying for the needs of others? Pastor Josh continues our "ACTS of Prayer" series by exploring the power and purpose of interceding for others. // Verses and message notes: www.theridge.church/notes // Join us online or in person Sundays at 9a + 11a: www.theridge.church/live
In this episode, Andrew and Josh dive into a conversation that hits home for anyone who's ever faced a tough season. From personal stories of financial struggles to the heartbreak of loss, they explore how gratitude isn't just for the good times—it's a game-changer when life feels broken and uncertain. With honesty, humor, and a whole lot of heart, they unpack what it means to give thanks in all things (yes, even the hard stuff). Whether you're on the mountaintop or barely making it through the valley, this episode is a reminder that God's presence and provision are constant—even when it doesn't feel like it. Plus, a shout-out to worship, a reflection on the power of perspective, and a story about a mysterious rent check that showed up just in time. You don't want to miss this one!
What if gratitude is the key to aligning your heart with God's will? This week, Pastor Andrew Archer explores the "T" in the ACTS model of prayer—thanksgiving—and challenges us to trust God's perspective, presence, and purpose in every season. // Verses and message notes: www.theridge.church/notes // Join us online or in person Sundays at 9a + 11a: www.theridge.church/live
This week, Arch (Community Life Pastor) and Joshua Rhodes (Senior Pastor—only called Joshua by his mom) kick things off with some fun banter about middle names, NBA All-Star game disappointments, and how worship songs hit differently when they line up perfectly with the sermon. Then, they dive into the main topic: confession. They share some hilarious and relatable stories—like the great mailbox incident of the past—and talk about how our view of confession changes as we grow. From childhood guilt to parenting moments that mirror God's grace, they explore how confession isn't about winning back God's love (you already have that!) but about staying close to Him. They also tackle some of the baggage people might have around confession, the difference between conviction and condemnation, and why keeping “short accounts” with God makes life so much better. Plus, there are some practical tips on making confession a regular (and freeing) part of prayer. It's a thoughtful but lighthearted conversation full of laughs, honesty, and encouragement. So whether you're driving, folding laundry, or debating your own middle name, tune in for some great insights and a few laughs along the way!
Taking ownership of our sins isn't easy, but what if confession is a gift from God? As we continue "ACTS of Prayer," Pastor Josh explores "C: Confession" and the power of being honest with God about our sins. Through Scripture, we'll see how confession reveals God's grace, realigns our hearts with His truth, and restores our relationship with Him. // Verses and message notes: www.theridge.church/notes // Join us online or in person Sundays at 9a + 11a: www.theridge.church/live
This episode kicks off with plenty of laughs as Josh and Arch stumble through the intro, leading to a hilarious deep dive into Josh's (completely fictional) morning routine—complete with slippers, affirmations, and a questionable waistline claim. They also break down the mystery of Kroger's floral department and discuss the Chiefs' shocking Super Bowl loss, along with some top-tier game-day food. But beyond the fun, they dive into the heart of the message—adoration in prayer. Josh and Arch discuss why praising God for who He is transforms our relationship with Him and reflect on the attributes of God that have shaped their faith. They explore the tension between God's holiness and grace, the power of His faithfulness, and how embracing His unchanging nature can bring peace in uncertain times. With humor, honesty, and plenty of engaging stories, this episode is both lighthearted and deeply encouraging—so grab a coffee (or a Harold mug) and join the conversation!
Continuing our "ACTS of Prayer" series, Pastor Josh unpacks the first letter—"A: Adoration." Adoration in prayer is about recognizing God's greatness, not just for what He's done, but for who He is. This week, we will examine five key attributes of God: His power, holiness, compassion, faithfulness, and love. // Verses and message notes: www.theridge.church/notes // Join us online or in person Sundays at 9a + 11a: www.theridge.church/live
In this episode, Pastors Arch and Josh kick off the week with a lighthearted conversation about everything from rap music and the Grammys to the ever-growing list of streaming services and the return of commercials—now rebranded as "ads." They swap stories about church life, sermon-watching habits, and the relatable struggle of forgetting to cancel free trials. But beyond the laughs, they dive into the heart behind their church's teaching series, exploring the intentional journey from reading Scripture to deepening prayer. Josh unpacks the thought process behind shaping a church-wide focus on spiritual growth, the importance of biblical accuracy in prayer, and the challenges of maintaining focus in a distracted world. Plus, they tease what's coming next—an exploration of adoration in prayer and how worship can help us express praise to God.