Christ-Centered Athlete Podcast

The Tragic Vow | Judges 11What do you do when your past feels like it has disqualified you from your future?In this message, we explore the life of Jephthah, a man who was pushed to the margins, rejected by his family, and forced to live in the shadows. Yet, when the people of Israel faced an impossible crisis, God reached into the "land of Tob" to call upon the very man they had cast out.The Pain of Rejection: Understanding Jephthah's background and how our wounds often shape our identity.God's Surprising Selection: Why God chooses the "outcasts" and "mighty warriors" that society often overlooks.The Complexity of Faith: Navigating the triumphs and the tragic vows of a man despite his deep flaws.Your pedigree doesn't determine your purpose. Join us as we see how God's grace reaches into the most broken circumstances to find leaders for His people."Then the Spirit of the Lord came on Jephthah..." — Judges 11:29Visit the Website: Find more sermons and resources at charlesrgrimes.comRead the Book: If you're interested in stories of running from and returning to God, check out my book, Jonah: Following God's Call When You'd Rather Run Away, available now on Amazon.Subscribe: Hit that subscribe icon to be notified of our weekly teachings from the Book of Judges.#Judges11 #Jephthah #Sermon #BibleStudy #GodsGrace #FaithInTheFlaws

In this week's message, “Demolition Required,” Pastor Owen Miller invites us into the refining, renewing work of Jesus described in Matthew 3:11–12. John the Baptist paints a vivid picture of the Messiah standing with a winnowing fork in his hand—separating wheat from chaff, preserving what is good, and clearing away what cannot remain.Pastor Owen reminds us that this is the very heart of sanctification. Jesus lovingly enters the hidden corners of our lives, not to shame us, but to transform us. His work often feels like demolition—tearing down old patterns, false identities, and the debris of sin—but it is always for the sake of rebuilding something stronger, truer, and more Christlike.In this message you'll be encouraged to:Trust Jesus with the ongoing process of spiritual formationEmbrace the “winnowing” work that separates what is life-giving from what is destructiveFind hope in Christ's unwavering love and patient craftsmanshipSee sanctification not as punishment, but as purposeful renewalNo matter what Jesus is clearing away or cultivating within you, there is always hope. He is faithful to build the good and remove the harmful, shaping us into people who reflect His character and carry His light.

Have you ever felt like God was calling you to step up, but your first instinct was to look behind you and see who else He might be talking to?In this message, we dive into the gripping story of Deborah and Barak from Judges 4. While Sisera's 900 iron chariots seemed like an insurmountable wall of fear, the real battle wasn't just on the field—it was in the heart.The "Not Me" Chair: Why we often disqualify ourselves from God's service based on our own limitations.Courage is Contagious: How Deborah's unwavering faith empowered Barak to finally find his footing.God's Definition of "Likely": Discovering that God doesn't call the equipped; He equips the available.Stop waiting for the "perfect" circumstances or the "perfect" version of yourself. God isn't looking for the most qualified candidate; He's looking for the one willing to get out of the chair and onto the battlefield."Certainly I will go with you," said Deborah. "But because of the course you are taking, the honor will not be yours..." — Judges 4:9

Stuck in a Rut? Breaking the Cycle of "Try Harder" | Flawed: God's Grace for Broken PeopleHave you ever felt like your life is like a "walking" washing machine? You hit pause, move things around, and promise to do better — but a few weeks later, you're right back in the same "thump, thump, thump" of the old cycle. In the start of our new series, "Flawed: God's Grace for Broken People," we explore the "Wild West" of the Bible: the book of Judges. We discuss why we get stuck in spiritual ruts and, more importantly, how we can get out. In this message, we cover: The 4-stage "Spin Cycle" that keeps us from moving forward. Why "Spiritual Amnesia" fuels Israel's downfall in Judges and our biggest failures. The "Circuit Breaker" that truly ends the cycle for good—(It's the Cross, by the way!) The Bottom Line: You don't break the cycle by trying harder; you do it by remembering better. If you've ever felt like a "work in progress" or if you're tired of running the same loop in your struggles, this message is for you. God doesn't wait for you to get it right before He moves toward you; He meets you right in the mess.

Are you waiting for your spiritual life to suddenly feel "abundant," or are you actively growing into it?In this message from November 23, 2025, Pastor Charlie Grimes opens 2 Peter 1:3-11 to show us that a fruitful life in Jesus isn't something we wait for—it's something we cultivate.In "The Abundant Life Realized," you will discover:The Divine Power: How God has already given us everything we need for life and godliness.The Apple Tree Illustration: Using the lifecycle of a tree to understand how faith must root, branch out, and bear fruit.The Sequence of Discipleship: A step-by-step look at verses 5-7 (faith, virtue, knowledge, self-control, perseverance, godliness, brotherly kindness, and love) and how these traits build upon one another.If you want to move from spiritual stagnation to a flourishing, fruitful walk with Christ, this message will encourage you to "make every effort" to grow in your faith.Connect with Us: If this message blessed you, please LIKE this podcast and SUBSCRIBE to the channel for more Biblical teaching and encouragement.We'd love to hear from you: Which step in the "sequence of discipleship" do you feel God is calling you to focus on right now? Let us know in the comments!#2Peter #AbundantLife #SpiritualGrowth #Discipleship #ChristianSermon #PastorCharlieGrimes #Faith #Fruitfulness #BibleStudy #ChristianLiving

Are you feeling weighed down by life's challenges or searching for a source of lasting hope? If you need encouragement to stand firm in your faith, this message is for you.In "God's Abundant Victory," Pastor Charlie Grimes delivers powerful Biblical teaching from I Peter 5:6-11. This sermon, delivered on November 9, 2025, unpacks the promise that even in our struggles, God is working to restore, support, and strengthen us.Pastor Grimes explores three vital postures of faith that unlock God's victory in your life:Humility (Get Low): Learning to cast all your anxiety on God because He cares for you.Resistance (Stand Firm): How to remain sober-minded and alert, resisting the enemy, and standing firm in your faith.Hope (Look Up): Fixing your eyes on the "God of all grace," who has called you to His eternal glory.This sermon is for anyone seeking deep Biblical encouragement, a reminder of God's promises, and practical steps to find hope in life.Find Encouragement & Hope:If this message of Biblical hope encouraged you, please like this video and subscribe to our channel for more weekly sermons and teaching.We would love to hear from you. How did this message speak to your heart? Share your thoughts in the comments below.#BiblicalTeaching #Sermon #Hope #Encouragement #IPeter5 #StandFirm #ChristianSermon #Faith #HopeInLife

The Peaceful Prince | Charlie GrimesDescription:It is easy to sing about the "Prince of Peace" by candlelight on Christmas Eve. It is much harder to follow Him when the candles go out and the conflict begins.In this message, Pastor Charlie Grimes takes us from the manger in Bethlehem to the courtroom of Pontius Pilate. We discover that Jesus didn't just come to bring a sentimental feeling; He came to establish a Kingdom that operates on an entirely different power source.We are faced with a choice: Will we choose the way of Barabbas (force, coercion, and "winning"), or will we choose the way of the Prince of Peace?Key Takeaways:Why you cannot build a Kingdom from above using methods from below.The difference between the "Christmas Card" Jesus and the Real Jesus.How to fight for the Truth without using the world's weapons.Scripture: Isaiah 9:6-7, John 18:33-37Speaker: Charlie GrimesDate: December 28, 2025Church: Walnut Creek Mennonite Church#Sermon #PrinceOfPeace #John18 #Anabaptist #WalnutCreekMennonite #PeaceChurch #Christianity

The Pressure Paradox | Finding Joy in a Burnout CultureWe live in a "pressure cooker" culture. From financial stress to the pressure to perform, it often feels like the weight of the world is crushing us. But what if the answer isn't to build thicker skin, but to change what's inside?In this message, Pastor Charlie explores the "Pressure Paradox." Using a surprising lesson from the Mariana Snailfish—a creature that survives crushing depths not with armor, but with internal pressure—we discover how biblical Joy acts as a stabilizer for our souls.In this message, we cover:

From the sermon “Our Abundant Family” (1 Peter 2:1–5, 9–10) preached by Pastor Charlie Grimes on September 21, 2025.Pastor Charlie reminds us that the Church isn't a building—it's a living, breathing community built on Jesus, the cornerstone.

Welcome to the first Sunday of Advent!

Sermon based on 2 Corinthians 12:7–10In this deeply personal and powerful message, join Pastor Charlie Grimes in exploring how God can transform pain into purpose and trials into triumph. Drawing from Paul's words in 2 Corinthians, and a powerful scene from The Chosen, this sermon reveals how our greatest weaknesses can become the birthplace of divine strength.Whether you're wrestling with unanswered prayers, walking through seasons of suffering, or simply searching for hope, this message reminds us that:

Dive into John 5:1-15 with Pastor Charlie as we explore "Getting Off The Ground"! If you've ever felt stuck and held down by life's circumstances, this message is for you. We'll uncover how Jesus challenges the status quo, revealing a different kind of King and Kingdom. Through the healing of the man at the pool of Bethesda, we'll expose five steps to getting up and becoming everything Jesus desires for us. Get ready to see how God seeks you out and how you, too, can be a part of His extraordinary plan!

Dive into John 4:4-26 with Pastor Charlie as we explore "Not Business As Usual"! If you've ever felt too broken, too messy, or unusable by God, this message is for you. We'll uncover how Jesus challenges the status quo, revealing a different kind of King and Kingdom. Through the Samaritan woman's powerful encounter, we'll expose four lies the world tells us about religion, our past, our expertise, and the journey of faith. Discover the liberating truth: salvation is a gift, your past doesn't define your worth to God, He equips the called, and walking with Jesus means embracing the unexpected. Get ready to see how God seeks you out and how you, too, can be a part of His extraordinary plan!

Loneliness isn't just a passing emotion—it's a spiritual ache. In “Always Better Together,” we step into Solomon's reflections on injustice, isolation, and the redeeming gift of companionship. These verses echo the heartbreak of the oppressed and the futility of striving alone, yet they crescendo into one of Scripture's most tender reminders: “Two are better than one.”This episode unpacks the power of shared burdens, mutual encouragement, and the resilience that comes from unity. Whether you're tangled in toil, craving connection, or standing on the edge of burnout, there's strength in the simple truth that we were never meant to walk alone.

What if every season—joy and sorrow, birth and death, building and letting go—was part of a divine cadence? In “The Rhythm of Time,” we listen closely to the poetic pulse of Ecclesiastes 3, tracing God's presence through the passing moments we often rush or resist. From the mystery of eternity planted in human hearts to the humility of returning to dust, this episode reflects on the tension between timeless purpose and fleeting breath. It's not just time we're measuring—it's meaning.

In this episode, we follow the Teacher's pursuit of fulfillment through breathtaking achievements—gardens planted, houses built, watercourses crafted. But behind the grandeur lies an unsettling truth: the longing for more never ends. “The Myth of More” peels back the illusion of satisfaction in success, challenging us to ask whether our deepest desires can ever be met by what we build. Let this reflection disturb and awaken something more enduring within you. Pastor Charlie teaches at Walnut Creek Mennonite Church in beautiful Holmes County, OH.

Why do I believe in Jesus? In this episode, I share four compelling reasons that have transformed my life and faith. If you're not a Christian, I invite you to investigate these reasons with an open heart—you might just discover the hope, truth, and purpose you've been seeking. This is your chance to explore the person of Jesus, His love, and the profound impact He can have on your life.If you're inspired to take the next step, I encourage you to connect with a local church where you can find community, support, and guidance on your spiritual journey. Start by opening a Bible—God's living word—and letting its truth speak into your heart. Spend time in prayer, sharing your thoughts and seeking God's presence; He listens and cares deeply for you.For those of you who are Christians, I invite you to share this episode with someone who might be searching for answers or longing for hope. Together, let's share the good news and make Christ's love known to the world.Tune in now on your favorite podcast app—this could be the start of something truly life-changing.Closing song: "My Jesus" by Anne Wilsoncharlesrgrimes.comwcmenn.org

Join Pastor Charlie for this powerful 25-minute episode; he explores the timeless question that faces us all after disappointment: Are we growing bitter or becoming better? Drawing wisdom from the biblical story in Genesis 4:1-8, we examine how rejection and failure present a critical crossroads in our lives. Discover practical strategies for overcoming resentment, taking responsibility for your emotions, and transforming setbacks into opportunities for growth. Whether you're dealing with professional rejection, relationship struggles, or personal disappointments, this episode offers biblical insights and actionable steps to choose the path of improvement over bitterness. It is perfect for anyone seeking spiritual guidance on handling life's inevitable disappointments with grace and wisdom.Keywords: overcoming bitterness, dealing with rejection, spiritual growth, biblical wisdom, Genesis 4, Cain and Abel, handling disappointment, personal development, Christian perspective on failure, transforming setbacks, emotional healing, spiritual maturityLearn more about Pastor Charlie's ministry and church at:charlesrgrimes.comwcmenn.org

Stop walking on eggshells! Discover how bringing playfulness and paradox into your relationships can actually solve problems better than another serious conversation. Join Pastor Charlie to learn why humor isn't just fun - it's a powerful tool for reducing anxiety and creating deeper connection. Perfect for couples who feel stuck in the same old patterns or anyone wanting to bring more joy into their relationships. From giving your arguments funny names to using paradox to break tension, this episode is packed with practical tips you can use today! Featuring: ✨ Why being too serious makes problems worse

Struggling to stick with challenging goals? Tired of giving up when things get tough? Discover powerful strategies to build your frustration tolerance and achieve lasting success in relationships, work, and personal growth. Learn Biblical wisdom and practical psychology that will transform how you handle life's obstacles. Perfect for anyone wanting to develop emotional strength and resilience in their Christian walk, relationships and in life. This episode combines faith-based insights with practical tools to help you persevere through difficulties and reach your God-given potential. #EmotionalHealth #ChristianGrowth #Perseverance #MentalStrength #BiblicalWisdom #PersonalDevelopment #ChristianCounseling #RelationshipAdvice #MentalHealthTips #FaithJourney" wcmenn.org charlesrgrimes.com

Tired of having the same fights over and over? Discover how Pastor Charlie Grimes has worked to identify and change destructive relationship patterns in his own life and ministry. Learn practical steps to move from reactive conflicts to meaningful connections. Whether you're dealing with family drama, relationship struggles, or workplace tensions, this episode reveals why HOW you handle conflict matters more than WHAT you're fighting about. #RelationshipAdvice #CouplesCounseling #BowenTheory #ConflictResolution #ChristianCounseling #Marriage" Walnut Creek Mennonite Church wcmenn.org charlesrgrimes.com

Join Pastor Charlie to discover the transformative power of self-differentiation. Learn how maintaining a clear sense of self while staying connected to others can lead to greater emotional peace and healthier relationships. He explores practical strategies for developing emotional maturity, setting healthy boundaries, and navigating challenging relationships without losing yourself. Whether dealing with family dynamics, workplace relationships, or personal growth, this episode offers valuable insights for achieving mental and emotional balance through self-differentiation. #EmotionalHealth #PersonalGrowth #MentalWellness #Relationships #SelfDifferentiation #BoundarySettings wcmenn.org charlesrgrimes.com Link to Jack Shitama's book: "If You Met My Family, You'd Understand" on Amazon.

Are you looking for guidance on Christian mentorship and discipleship? In this episode, we unpack powerful insights from Paul's mentoring relationship with Timothy and explore how to build meaningful spiritual mentorship relationships today. Whether seeking a mentor or feeling called to mentor others, discover biblical principles for authentic discipleship that transforms lives. We dive deep into: Perfect for pastors, church leaders, small group facilitators, and anyone passionate about Christian leadership development and spiritual growth. Join us for an inspiring conversation about building a lasting spiritual legacy through intentional mentorship. #ChristianMentorship #Discipleship #BiblicalLeadership #ChristianPodcast #SpiritualGrowth #ChurchLeadership #PaulAndTimothy #ChristianMentor #BibleTeaching #SpiritualFormation #ChristianCommunity #Pastors #MinistryLeadership #Faith #ChristianLife Based upon the sermon Pastor Charlie delivered: https://youtu.be/L9JLvWGg20Q more at www.wcmenn.org charlesrgrimes.com

Join Charlie Grimes as he launches his newly rebranded podcast! In this special episode, Charlie shares the heartfelt story behind his transition from Encourager's United. He honors his father's legacy while expanding into new creative territory. Discover what's ahead as this 15-minute show explores faith, creativity, and authentic storytelling. #PersonalGrowth #Storytelling #Faith #Creativity charlesrgrimes.com Walnut Creek Mennonite Church: wcmenn.org Find all sermons on the church's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@walnutcreekmennonite1862

The Charlie Grimes Podcast could be described as a podcast that offers a unique perspective to enrich your spiritual journey. As a Christian pastor, Charlie Grimes fosters meaningful conversations about faith, scripture, and their practical applications for modern life. The podcast aims to help listeners explore scripture relevant to today, navigate life's challenges, and strengthen their relationship with God1. It seeks to be a place where listeners can discover the transformative power of a trusted spiritual mentor. The podcast features engaging discussions and insightful interviews to inspire and uplift listeners. It aims to empower individuals to overcome challenges and embrace their unique journeys, focusing on themes of support, motivation, and the power of connection.

The Charlie Grimes Podcast could be described as a podcast that offers a unique perspective to enrich your spiritual journey. As a Christian pastor, Charlie Grimes fosters meaningful conversations about faith, scripture, and their practical applications for modern life. The podcast aims to help listeners explore scripture relevant to today, navigate life's challenges, and strengthen their relationship with God. It seeks to be a place where listeners can discover the transformative power of a trusted spiritual mentor. The podcast features engaging discussions and insightful interviews to inspire and uplift listeners. It aims to empower individuals to overcome challenges and embrace their unique journeys, focusing on themes of support, motivation, and the power of connection.

In this heartwarming episode titled "Great Joy for All People," we explore the incredible story of the shepherds in Luke 2:8-20. Imagine the awe and wonder they experienced when the angel of the Lord appeared, announcing the birth of Jesus, the Savior of the world! Pastor Owen dives deep into the shepherds' response—fear turned to faith, and their humble joy in spreading the Good News. This episode highlights the powerful message of Christmas: Jesus brings great joy and hope for all people, no matter their background or circumstances. Whether you're seeking encouragement, exploring the story of Jesus' birth, or growing in your faith, this episode will inspire you to embrace the true joy of the season. Don't forget to follow, rate, and share to spread the message of joy! #ChristianPodcast #GreatJoy #Luke2 #Shepherds #Faith #ChristmasMessage #Encouragement #BibleStudy #ChristianTeaching --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/encouragers-united/support

In this uplifting episode titled "Seeking the Prince of Peace," we journey alongside the Wise Men in Matthew 2:1-12 as they seek the newborn King, guided by the star of Bethlehem. Pastor Charlie unpacks the powerful lessons from their quest—faith, worship, and the ultimate discovery of peace through Jesus Christ. This episode dives deep into the significance of Jesus as the Prince of Peace, prophesied in Scripture, and how His peace transforms our lives today. Whether you're searching for encouragement, exploring the meaning of Christmas, or simply looking to grow in your faith, this episode offers insight and inspiration rooted in the Word of God. Join us for this meaningful discussion and be reminded of the peace that comes from seeking Christ. Don't forget to follow, rate, and share this episode with friends! #ChristianPodcast #PrinceOfPeace #Faith #Matthew2 #WiseMen #Encouragement #BibleStudy #ChristianTeaching --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/encouragers-united/support

A sermon by Pastor Charlie Grimes, Walnut Creek Mennonite Church, Walnut Creek, OH. If you have a comment or question, please feel free to share it: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/encouragers-united/message Encouragement Positive mental attitude Enthusiasm, Dreamer, Coach, Mentor, Friend Charlesrgrimes@gmail.com charlesrgrimes.com Twitter: @charlesrgrimes https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlie-grimes-2b78444b/ https://www.instagram.com/encouragers_united/ https://www.facebook.com/EncouragersUnited/?modal=admin_todo_tour https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCS-40nUSl9SCekbbhk3FzYw?view_as=subscriber www.wcmenn.org The Encouragers United Podcast is a joint ministry effort by Charlie Grimes and Walnut Creek Mennonite Church. Many thanks to Sarah Hochstetler for singing "I Will Wait" based upon Psalm 130. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/encouragers-united/support

A sermon by Pastor Charlie Grimes, Walnut Creek Mennonite Church, Walnut Creek, OH. If you have a comment or question, please feel free to share it: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/encouragers-united/message Encouragement Positive mental attitude Enthusiasm, Dreamer, Coach, Mentor, Friend Charlesrgrimes@gmail.com charlesrgrimes.com Twitter: @charlesrgrimes https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlie-grimes-2b78444b/ https://www.instagram.com/encouragers_united/ https://www.facebook.com/EncouragersUnited/?modal=admin_todo_tour https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCS-40nUSl9SCekbbhk3FzYw?view_as=subscriber www.wcmenn.org The Encouragers United Podcast is a joint ministry effort by Charlie Grimes and Walnut Creek Mennonite Church. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/encouragers-united/support

A sermon by Pastor Charlie Grimes, Walnut Creek Mennonite Church, Walnut Creek, OH. If you have a comment or question, please feel free to share it: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/encouragers-united/message Encouragement Positive mental attitude Enthusiasm, Dreamer, Coach, Mentor, Friend Charlesrgrimes@gmail.com charlesrgrimes.com Twitter: @charlesrgrimes https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlie-grimes-2b78444b/ https://www.instagram.com/encouragers_united/ https://www.facebook.com/EncouragersUnited/?modal=admin_todo_tour https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCS-40nUSl9SCekbbhk3FzYw?view_as=subscriber www.wcmenn.org The Encouragers United Podcast is a joint ministry effort by Charlie Grimes and Walnut Creek Mennonite Church. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/encouragers-united/support

A sermon by Pastor Owen Miller, Walnut Creek Mennonite Church, Walnut Creek, OH. If you have a comment or question, please feel free to share it: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/encouragers-united/message Encouragement Positive mental attitude Enthusiasm, Dreamer, Coach, Mentor, Friend Charlesrgrimes@gmail.com charlesrgrimes.com Twitter: @charlesrgrimes https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlie-grimes-2b78444b/ https://www.instagram.com/encouragers_united/ https://www.facebook.com/EncouragersUnited/?modal=admin_todo_tour https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCS-40nUSl9SCekbbhk3FzYw?view_as=subscriber www.wcmenn.org The Encouragers United Podcast is a joint ministry effort by Charlie Grimes and Walnut Creek Mennonite Church. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/encouragers-united/support