Endure

Being a good spouse and a good parent is hard. Being a good spouse and parent while also in ministry is stress to the max. Doing all of that during COVID and an election is almost unfathomable. This week we're talking about how to managed all of that with Roland and Tammy Martinez. They have dedicated themselves to teaching and discipling others.  Initially serving in Christian education and pastoral ministry together in Miami and Ft. Myers, Florida. Eventually moving to Charlotte, Roland served as a full-time pastor where he and Tammy counseled couples and helped them to build God-honoring faith relationships. After pioneering the ministry of Christian Family Life in Caribbean and Latin American countries, Roland became the president of Christian Family Life in 2013. Roland and Tammy are frequently asked to teach church leadership the faith principles and share their application in seminars with couples. They have six children ranging in age from elementary school to college graduates and are active parents, residing in Charlotte, NC.

Josh has been the Lead Pastor of 2ND Conway since September 2018. He met his wife, Jacki, at Criswell College where they both earned degrees in Biblical Studies. He holds a B.A., Masters of Arts, and is currently pursuing a Doctoral Degree. He began full-time church ministry in the Fall of 2001 and has served primarily in and around Dallas TX. Josh and Jacki have three sons and live in West Conway. He loves kayaking, reading on a Kindle, coffee, and tacos.   You can follow Josh on Twitter HERE.

It seems like the contentious nature of our day is stressing relationships to the point where friendships are being broken up and bridges are being burnt. This week, we look at the Christian response when people are hurt and sinned against. We're looking at forgiveness.    This is a sermon that Daniel preached this past Sunday at Denver Baptist Church from Ephesians 4:32.   Have a great week and be kind!

David serves as the Lead Pastor for First Baptist Church of Orange Park, Florida and is founder of the First Family Network of churches and campus locations. He is also the founder of Battle Ready Men, an organization that seeks make disciples of men and empower them to be the primary disciplemakers of their family. You can read David's writing HERE.    You can follow David on Twitter HERE.

After a bit of a hiatus, we're back! This week we fill you guys in on all the things that have gone on in our family & ministry while also sharing what God has been teaching us.   Heather mentions our "Thrill of Hope" episode this week and you can find that episode HERE.   As always, thanks for listening and don't forget to be kind!

Nick Terry is the chaplain for NASCAR as a part of Motor Racing Outreach. He serves the teams, drivers and owners by helping to shepherd and lead the Christian community on the NASCAR circuit.   You can follow Nick on Twitter: @nickterryMRO

This week we are trying something a little different here at The Middle. We wanted to share a sermon that Daniel preached at our home church. We feel that this sermon is incredibly timely for many of us as we wonder what God is doing in this season. We pray this is an encouragement for you to not stop and to trust God's plan as He seeks to turn the world upside down.   Acts 17:1-15   Main Idea - God's gospel turns the world upside down   1) God's gospel doesn't make earthly sense.   2) God's kingdom upsets the order of the world   3) God's church grows by God's Word   4) God's people don't stop.   Have a great week and don't forget to be kind

One of the most common questions that I get from people in the moments after I speak is how they can share their testimony. For me sharing my story takes a lot of forms: from the stage, small groups or one-on-one in everyday life. Regardless the circumstance, I think these three aspects are crucial for honoring God in your story. We take a quick look at what three aspects need to be woven in any testimony.   What We Are Lovin' D - For God So Loved The World by Dayton Hartman and Walt Strickland   H - Beginner's Pluck by Liz Bohannon   Let's hang out online!     Instagram - @danielpritchie @heathersletters   Facebook - @danielpritchie     Twitter - @danielritchie     Website/Speaking/Blog - www.danielritchie.org     Thank you for listening! Feel feel to leave a review and don't forget to be kind!

Obviously, we cannot control a lot of things in our lives. 2020 has proven that like never before. But learning to cope when you feel out of control can help you manage your stress, your emotions and even alter your perspective as you live in a difficult season. This week we look at 3 ways to navigate stress regardless of what you find yourself in the middle of right now.   What We're Loving H - Adorning The Dark by Andrew Peterson D - American Gospel   Let's hang out online!   Instagram - @danielpritchie @heathersletters Facebook - @danielpritchie   Twitter - @danielritchie   Website/Speaking/Blog - www.danielritchie.org   Thank you for listening! Feel feel to leave a review and don't forget to be kind!

 There are phrases that are used in Christian culture that, though common, aren't necessarily true. Today, we look at the phrase, "God will never give you more than you can handle." As we talk not only do we see that is not Scripturally true but that God does want you to have trials that go far beyond what YOU can handle.   Many of us may say we are in the middle of a season like this right now but we hope that you see today that God is working in you, through you and for you even in this tough season.   Let's hang out online!   Instagram - @danielpritchie @heathersletters Facebook - @danielpritchie   Twitter - @danielritchie   Website/Speaking/Blog - www.danielritchie.org   Thank you for listening! Feel feel to leave a review and don't forget to be kind!

  Daniel was born without arms and therefore lives a life very differently from the majority of the rest of the world. Aside from having to adapt to doing everything with his feet, today he shares what it's like to live differently in society. Heather also gives her perspective on being married to a non-typical person and how that affects their marriage and parenting. Together, these experiences will help you get a glimpse into the life of people who do not fit into the American norm, how to be great friends to people like this in your own life and grow in empathy and compassion.          What we are loving:   Daniel - Campfires    Heather - Essie nail polish and Sally Hansen Gel Topcoat      Let's hang out online!   Instagram - @danielpritchie @heathersletters Facebook - @danielpritchie   Twitter - @danielritchie   Website/Speaking/Blog - www.danielritchie.org   Thank you for listening! We love a 5 star review and don't forget to subscribe!

We are incredibly excited here at The Middle because this episode falls on the one year anniversary of starting this podcast!!! We certainly understand that this episode comes in the midst of collective brokenness and hurt that is gripping our nation. While addressing and lamenting the hurt of our day, we talk about the practice of choosing to focus on the grace of God seen in both the spectacular and the mundane. We call these gifts - measures of grace.   To listen to Robert Lane's episode, CLICK HERE.   To sign up for Daniel's ministry newsletter, CLICK HERE.   What We Are Loving: Heather - Visiting with her parents   Daniel - John Frame's book, Nature's Case For God   Hang out with us online! Instagram @danielpritchie @heathersletters   Facebook @danielpritchie   Twitter @danielritchie   Be kind!!

Robert Lane has been a friend for almost 20 years and is a brother in ministry that I deeply respect. He has been a missionary for 15 years in spots all across the planet. I pray this conversation will challenge you as you see what it means to support a missionary while still being on mission yourself.

  The nation is reeling with riots and months of quarantine stress and we know the only place to turn is to God. Romans 8 is one of the most theologically dense pieces of scripture, yet so full of God's character and promises and hope. Heather and Daniel walk through some of their favorite portions of this chapter today to remind yourself of the goodness of the Lord and strengthen your heart in these weary days.         Romans 8     We Stand With You: Racial Reconciliation https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-middle-with-daniel-and-heather-ritchie/id1467805820?i=1000474332018     God's Good Gift of Adoption https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-middle-with-daniel-and-heather-ritchie/id1467805820?i=1000457220944     SUBSCRIBE to The Middle and never forget an episode!     Hang out with us online! Instagram @danielpritchie @heathersletters   Facebook @danielpritchie   Twitter @danielritchie   Book Daniel to Speak: www.danielritchie.org

Parenting is an incredible challenge that is filled with mountains and valleys. Parenting in quarantine has been a challenge all its own for many of us. Yet, this time brings an amazing opportunity for us to lead our kids through suffering as well as affording us the chance to model how to hold onto hope when circumstances are hard. We dive in to the importance of talking our kids through our suffering while offering some advice on how to model the hope of Jesus when it is needed the most.   What We're Loving:   H - Architectural Digest YouTube Channel D - Hiking   SHARE which episodes you like on Social Media and see what we are up to behind the scenes!   Instagram @heathersletters @danielpritchie   Facebook @danielpritchie   Twitter @danielritchie   http://www.danielritchie.org   Stay Safe and Be Kind!!

Joe Thorn is the founding and Lead Pastor of Redeemer Fellowship in St. Charles, IL. and a graduate of Moody Bible Inst. (BA) and The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary (MDiv). He and his wife Jen have four children.   You can follow Joe on Twitter - @JoeThorn.   You can find the podcast Joe co-hosts along with Jimmy Fowler HERE.

Upon recently learning a longtime hero of our faith, Ravi Zacharias is in his final days, many are paying tribute to his life and what it meant to them. We felt the same and also wanted the chance to share many Christian leaders who have encouraged and shaped our faith with their lives and ministries. Each is unique. Hopefully at least one will be somebody whose ministry will also serve you well and push you closer to Christ!          Ravi Zacharias - Jesus Among Other Gods            John Piper - Desiring God         Derwin Gray       Donald Whitney        Book: Trellis and The Vine        Danny Akin       Louie Giglio       Elisabeth Elliot         David Platt        Jackie Hill Perry         Gloria Furman       Lysa TerKuerst       Matt Chandler         Jennie Allen            Bob Goff       Christine Caine        The Austin Stone          

The shocking death of Ahmaud Arbery became public knowledge last week. We are lamenting with many of you over his death and the evil that pervades America for those of color. Today, we wanted to walk through the beginning layers of identifying white privilege, the active lingering fruit of white supremacy in our nation, and the steps we can take towards racial reconciliation. Our hope is this episode unites as the Gospel unites and we pray you listen with a humble, open heart. www.bethebridge.com “Racial Reconciliation” sermon by Beau Hughes at The Village Church https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=DZM0hSsm5CI “Under Our Skin” by Benjamin Watson https://www.amazon.com/Under-Our-Skin-Getting-Frustrations/dp/149641330X/ref=nodl_ The Happy Hour with Jamie Ivey: Interview with Latasha Morrison https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-happy-hour-with-jamie-ivey/id880741976?i=1000452028209 Let's hang out online! Instagram - @danielpritchie @heathersletters Facebook - @danielpritchie Twitter - @danielritchie Website/Speaking/Blog - www.danielritchie.org Thank you for listening! We love a 5 star review and don't forget to subscribe!

Every time I talk with Dayton - whether it is about family, ministry, preaching or even sports - I come away encouraged and challenged. I know that's the way you'll feel once you listen to my conversation with him as we talk through the dangers of ministry, church planting and the tension of the church & race. Dayton Hartman is a husband, father, pastor, professor and regular contributor to The Gospel Coalition, 9 Marks, For the Church, The Intersect Project and The Center for Baptist Renewal.  He has also contributed to Bible Study Magazine, Christianity Today, Credo Magazine, Ministry Team Magazine and other print as well as online publications.  You can find Dayton's books we talked about HERE. 

These days have brought us plenty of hurt, fear, isolation and despair. Finding the hope in these circumstances can be SO hard. What do I do? How can I comfort friends? The trite Christian phrase can be to just “hope in the gospel.” Which is true, but left by itself isn't helpful at all. This week, we dive into the dynamic, robust hope of the gospel and lay out how we can share hope with ourselves and others.    How can we clearly see hope?   - Don't assume the gospel - Use God's promises to fight despair - Cry out with God's help - Leave a legacy of hope   What We're Loving   Heather - IF: TV Daniel - Stainless Steel Ice Cubes   SHARE which episodes you like on Social Media and see what we are up to behind the scenes!   Instagram @heathersletters @danielpritchie   Facebook @danielpritchie   Twitter @danielritchie   http://www.danielritchie.org   Stay safe and Be Kind!!

Quarantine may have you feeling like there is too much “togetherness” with those you love the most. We're feeling that too but we are also trying to redeem all this time together as a married couple. Today we are sharing how we are trying to serve one another, love and grow together in a time that is extra stressful. We hope if you have been married for a year or 50 you will be encouraged to pursue your spouse in fresh ways.     VIDEO SERMONS are now one of the most creative ways Daniel can serve your church or conference. Go to www.danielritchie.org/booktospeak to start the conversation how he can best serve you and your people!     RATE + REVIEW this show if you liked it today! This helps our show grow so much!      LISTEN to the latest episode of The Pastor's Corner now, Daniel's interview with Daniel Darling.     SHARE which episodes you like on Social Media and see what we are up to behind the scenes!   Instagram @heathersletters @danielpritchie   Facebook @danielpritchie   Twitter @danielritchie   http://www.danielritchie.org   What we are LOVING this week:   Daniel - Southern Draw Cigars   Heather - Joanna Gaines' Chocolate Chip cookie recipe     

Daniel Darling is the Senior Vice President for Communications for National Religious Broadcasters. Dan is a bestselling author of several books, including Teen People of the Bible, Crash Course, iFaith, Real, Activist Faith, The Original Jesus, The Dignity Revolution, The Characters of Christmas and the forthcoming, A Way With Words, releasing in September 2020. He is the general editor, along with Trillia Newbell, of a small group study on racial reconciliation, The Church and the Racial Divide and is a contributor to The Worldview Study Bible and The Couples Devotional Bible.    You can find Dan on Twitter HERE.

This week we're having a party at The Middle!! This week is episode number 52. Obviously this is an odd number but with our special episodes and what we're doing at The Pastor's Corner, we weren't sure whether to count them as an episode or not. Since we have gotten to a year's worth of episodes, we felt we needed to celebrate with all of you. To do that, we wanted to share some of our favorite episodes which are broken down into three categories: our favorite episodes, episodes with the most audience feedback and our favorite interviews. If you haven't heard any of the episodes we feature today, find some time to give them a listen. You can find a link to all of them below:   Our favorites   War in the Waiting   A Legacy of Faith   This Changes Everything     Audience Favorites   Where is God?   A Glimpse Into Student Ministry   5 Ways To Suffer Well   Our Favorite Interviews   An Interview with Megan Lively   The Pastor's Corner: Mason King   An Interview with Josh Deckard     SHARE which episodes you like on Social Media and see what we are up to behind the scenes!   Instagram @heathersletters @danielpritchie   Facebook @danielpritchie   Twitter @danielritchie   http://www.danielritchie.org   Stay safe and be kind!  

How do I know if my preaching or teaching is boring or ineffectual? What do I do if my pastor is a terrible preacher? How do I discern what preaching is biblically faithful? These are a few of the questions we deep dive into in this show from two perspectives: a pastor and a congregation member. Let this encourage your growth as a pastor, your grace as a church member and aid in your discernment as you might search for a church.        A few trusted faithful pastor's (among many) you could listen to if you don't know who to listen to:   -Matt Carter and Halim Suh at www.austinstone.org   -Herb Reavis or Josh Reavis at www.njbc.org   -Matt Chandler at www.thevillagechurch.net   -Dayton Hartman at www.redeemerchurch.com   -Louie Giglio or Ben Stuart at www.passioncitychurch.com   -JD Greear at www.summitchurch.com     RATE + REVIEW this show if you liked it today! 5 stars are the best. This helps our show grow so much!      SHARE which episodes you like on Social Media and see what we are up to behind the scenes!   Instagram @heathersletters @danielpritchie   Facebook @danielpritchie   Twitter @danielritchie   http://www.danielritchie.org   What we are LOVING this week: Daniel - Good Reads app   Heather - King's Creek Round Rubber Duck Trucker Hat in Gold.  

This wide-ranging conversation with Jared covers gospel-partnership, discipleship while social distancing and gospel faithfulness - all while we have quite a few laughs. Jared C. Wilson is Assistant Professor of Pastoral Ministry at Spurgeon College, Author in Residence at Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, General Editor of For The Church (and host of the FTC Podcast), and Director of The Pastoral Training Center at Liberty Baptist Church in Kansas City, MO. I pray you enjoy this conversation with Jared!

What are you doing to celebrate Easter this year? Today we are sharing the very simple things we decided to do to still make Easter feel special to us and our kids in quarantine this year. We hope this encourages you to think through what fits best for your family in this season and bend all our hearts in greater worship of Jesus.       https://www.gospelproject.com/2020-family-easter-event/     www.christcommunity.com     passioncitychurch.com     What We're Loving:   Heather - TikTok   Daniel - Helluva Good French Onion dip and Ruffles Potato Chips   Keep up with us in real life: Instagram - @heathersletters @danielpritchie Facebook- @danielritchie Twitter - @danielritchie

This past Sunday we took some time to watch the livestream service from Passion City Church. Louie Giglio preach a sermon entitled, "Where Is God?" where he looked at the hearts of the disciples on the day wedged between Good Friday and Easter Sunday.   On that Silent Saturday, the disciples certainly had questions, fears and doubts. Among those questions could have been, "Where is God in all of this?" Yet, He was present and at work - even in the stillness of that Saturday where the tomb was closed and the body of Jesus still laid lifeless.   This week, while many of us wonder about the presence of God in this epidemic, we want to offer the encouragement God gave us this weekend - He's still there. He's still at work. He still loves us.   You can watch Louie's sermon from Sunday HERE.   What We're Lovin' this week: H - Interview with Cornell Doctor Dave Prince D - Pastor's Talk Podcast   Please stay safe and be kind!

In this episode of The Pastor's Corner, we take time to sit and talk with Brian Dye. Brian is the head of Legacy Disciple which is a disciple-making conference for urban young adults. He also works with The Chicago Partnership which is an organization that works with church planting and leadership development in the Chicago area.   This is a master class in discipleship and I pray that this gives you loads of ideas and encouragement as you seek to make disciples in your context.   You can find Brian on social media: Instagram & Twitter - @VisionNehemiah

This week we had a chance to talk with author and professor Karen Swallow Prior. Karen is brilliant, witty and loves Jesus - and all of those things are plainly seen in this conversation. In the times of trial we find ourselves in these days, this is exactly the conversation we need.   You can find Karen's Amazon author page HERE.   Karen's Social Media: Twitter: @KSPrior Instagram: @KarenSwallowPrior

Hope from the word of God is what our souls need the very most of all right now. Not more statistics or stockpiles of supplies. Daniel and Heather teach through the two passages of Scripture that God is using to specifically encourage their hearts amidst the immediate implications of quarantine for the Coronavirus. You will also receive a thrill of hope today as you listen that nothing but God can produce in the hearts of man during scary times. Check out last week's interview with Mason King on The Pastor's Corner. Genesis 22:1-19 Hebrews 11:17-19 Hebrews 4:14-16 “Obedience Precedes Blessing” episode from 2/18/20 What we are LOVING this week: Daniel - #texanshelpingtexans Heather - @sarahjanestudios sends out daily printable activities for your kids to work on while everyone is quarantined. RATE + REVIEW this show if you liked it today! This helps our show grow so much! SHARE which episodes you like on Social Media and see what we are up to behind the scenes! Instagram @heathersletters @danielpritchie Facebook @danielpritchie Twitter @danielritchie http://www.danielritchie.org

Mason King is the Director of The Village Institute in Flower Mound, TX and a man that I have held in high esteem since I met him four years ago.   This interview is a great challenge to many of us to not settle in our relationship with Christ or in our growth as leaders and pastors. We have to be aggressive to be present with the families that God has given us while also seeking to work diligently for the bride of Christ.   This is a wide-ranging, robust conversation and I know you'll come away encouraged and challenged by my conversation with Mason.   You can find Mason on social media here: Twitter: @masonking Website: www.masonking.com

Last week, we talked through our time in student ministry - what we loved, what gets overlooked and what we were disappointed by. There was so much feedback from the listeners, we decided to fill in a few things we didn't have the time to cover as we answer some questions you asked us in light of last week's episode.   In case you missed last week's episode, listen to it HERE.   Also, Josh Reavis gave great advice to pastors in our first episode of "The Pastor's Corner." You can listen to that episode HERE.   What We're Loving: Heather - is hating healthy cookie recipes. You got a good one? Daniel - Yeti Mug   SHARE which episodes you like on Social Media and see what we are up to behind the scenes! Instagram @heathersletters @danielpritchie Facebook @danielpritchie Twitter @danielritchie http://www.danielritchie.org  

Have you heard the big news here on The Middle?! We launched a new series that will air right here, every other Friday called, “The Pastor's Corner.” Daniel is having conversations with all kinds of people in ministry and you get to hear about it all. The struggles, unique challenges and blessings, leadership lessons and more.   And today we thought it was only fair that we share our own experience of pastoral ministry. Daniel was a student pastor for over 11 years and we want to share with you how much we loved it, things you may not know that come with the job, and what was disappointing about being a student pastor. RATE + REVIEW this show if you liked it today! This helps our little show grow so much! LISTEN to the very first episode of The Pastor's Corner now, an interview with Josh Reavis. SHARE which episodes you like on Social Media and see what we are up to behind the scenes! Instagram @heathersletters @danielpritchie Facebook @danielpritchie Twitter @danielritchie http://www.danielritchie.org   What we are LOVING this week: Daniel - Retro 51 Deluxe Stealth Tornado Pen Heather - Hadley Mar Designs Key Ring Bracelet in light gray. What we are LOVING this week: Daniel - Retro 51 Deluxe Stealth Tornado Pen Heather - Hadley Mar Designs Key Ring Bracelet in light gray.

Josh Reavis is the Associate Pastor of North Jacksonville Baptist Church. He's the husband to Seana and daddy to three amazing kids. He is the brainchild behind the Twitter profile - "The Wrestling Pastor" - that has been a favorite follow for many pastors for years. We hope you enjoy this conversation as we talk about calling, using social media wisely and the keys to not taking yourself too seriously.   You can find more of Josh here: Twitter: @JoshReavis & @WrestlingPastor    

Today is Heather's birthday! We thought it would be fun to flip the script and have Daniel interview Heather so you all can get to know one of our co-hosts a little better. We talk evidences of God's Grace, favorite books of the Bible, parenting hits and misses, why beauty is important and more things you never knew about Heather. Once you are finished listening you will feel like we had a jam-packed coffee date together! “Praying the Bible” Donald Whitney Thank you for listening! Stop and SUBSCRIBE right now, then leave us a 5 STAR REVIEW if you enjoyed this show! If you really liked it share on social media and be sure to tag us and follow for more behind the scenes: Facebook: @danielpritchie Instagram: @danielpritchie @heathersletters Twitter: @danielritchie

This week on The Middle, we take some time to talk about obedience as a vital, visible aspect of our faith. Following Jesus must be active, otherwise it isn't faith at all. God is kind and gracious to bless those who walk out what He has asked of us, but He is also swift to deal with disobedience strongly. As we take stock of the grace God has given us, how can we ignore the call for obedience that God has put on our life?   Obedience matters – no matter how big or small.   God deals with disobedience as any loving Father would – clearly and quickly.   God blesses those who live out what He has asked of them.   What we're loving: H – Yeti Mug D – www.cigarbid.com

Over the last year we have been asked quite a bit to share the story of how we met and got married. It is a very unique story, very unconventional. To us and hopefully to you, it is just proof God can do absolutely anything. He can bring any two people together in His sovereign plans however He well pleases. So whether you are single or married this Valentines week, we hope you feel unconditionally loved and seen by God and loved and appreciated by those in your life.     Books Mentioned:   Passion and Purity by Elizabeth Elliott   I Kissed Dating Goodbye by Joshua Harris   When God Writes Your Love Story by Eric and Leslie Ludy     What We're Loving:   Heather - King's Creek Sweatshirt   Daniel - King's Creek Trucker Hats

Our family shares a fun nickname for Josh Deckard - The Most Interesting Man in the World. And listening today you will get a taste of why we say that. Josh formerly worked in the White House and is now is raising a family of four kids with his wife, Ali. Adoption and having a child with 24/7 medical needs is a part of their story and so is how God intersected his life and changed it forever. This conversation is full of wisdom and encouragement that no matter what you are in the middle of God is there, He's in control and will bring purpose from it. We love the Deckard family and know after today you will too!     "Hidden Christmas" by Tim Keller   "Every Good Endeavor' by Tim Keller   Follow Josh here!   Instagram - @joshdeckard   Twitter - @JSDeckard   See what we are in the middle of!   Instagram @heathersletters @danielpritchie   Twitter @danielritchie   Facebook @danielpritchie   www.danielritchie.org     Don't miss the next episode by SUBSCRIBING and we always appreciate a 5 STAR rating! Thanks for listening!    

We're all pretty guilty of it. Checking out, numbing out because honestly, life is hard. We have stressors, anxiety and sometimes we need an escape. But when does that escape go too far, into the territory of being poor stewards of our time on earth. And worse, disconnecting from the lives around us that need us? We share in this struggle and today we share 4 ways to make sure we are all staying present. We hope you live the life God has given you to the fullest. Thriving, engaged, on mission. We can only do that if we are present and healthy. What we are loving: Daniel - Rtic Tumbler Heather - Himwari backpack on Amazon *Subscribe and review our show this week!* Always know what we are in the middle of: Instagram @heathersletters @danielpritchie Facebook @danielpritchie Twitter @danielritchie www.danielritchie.org

Most of us care enough to want to leave a legacy of meaning in one way or another. Listen as we share how Daniel's own grandmother left a legacy of faith in the simplest and surprising of ways. It will encourage you with whatever you are in the middle of to everyday faithfulness.

This week we are recapping our Christmas and letting you in on what we are in the middle of right now in this new year. A huge part of that is our pursuit of God this year and we are sharing our most favorite Bible study and prayer tools in case you are also wanting to strengthen your relationship with God this year. Tune in, this episode is packed with great information, resources and fun! -Christmas recap. -New years goals (check out last week's episode on that “Boldly Moving Into a New Decade.”) -Bible Study and prayer resources: Heather- The Bible Recap Podcast/reading plan. She Reads Truth Study Bible $3.99 notebook from Target Val Marie Prayer Journal Morning and Evening by Paul David Tripp Favorite pens *importance of having a time and place each day.   Daniel- ESV scripture journal Prayer journal Spiritual Disciplines for the Christian Life by Donald Whitney (and Praying the Bible) Logos Bible App The Bible Project   What we are loving: Heather - New rhythm of working out together again. Daniel - Branded Bills NC baseball hat.

New year, new me, right? Maybe. If you change nothing then nothing will change and wouldn't we all love to look back in 2030 and see marked growth in our lives? Listen today to hear how Daniel and Heather have reflected and planned for the upcoming year for the last several years of their marriage. It's clean and simple, but with the time invested we are confident you will see the goodness of the Lord to you in 2020 and through this whole decade.       It is IMPORTANT to cast vision, to dream and expect big, wild things from God!     1. Take an assessment of your life.   Helpful tools for this:   - Cultivate What Matters Power Sheets   - Jennie Allen's Dream Guide   - Shay Cochrane's Business Assessment   - Brighton Keller's Self Assessment     2.Dream BIG! All categories of your life. Throw it all down on paper.     3. Write it all down. Start finding categories for these dreams. Break it into baby steps. Set specific measurable goals.     4. Talk it all out with someone. Friend, roommates, spouse.     5. Keep your goals out. Revisit them at least weekly. Keep asking God about them and just get to work!     What We Are Loving:   Daniel - Football season. All the bowl games and championships.   Heather - My new slippers I scored on Black Friday. I never ever take them off unless I'm going in public.     Don't forget to *SUBSCRIBE* to this and leave a review if you listened and enjoyed it! Thank you if you have and if you have shared this with a friend.     Hang Out Online!   INSTAGRAM @heathersletters @danielpritchie   FACEBOOK @danielpritchie   TWITTER @danielritchie

On The Middle we love to talk about God, the saving work of Christ, and we love to laugh! We wanted to end 2019 on a high note and we thought you would enjoy laughing with us at everything we edited out. Have fun, and laugh at our top favorite bloopers of 2019. Happy New Year! 

We continue our Advent study this week by looking at the many facets that love can take by looking at the life of Jesus. This week is our ultimate challenge to "Be Kind" by looking to the One who is the truest picture of kindness and love.   LOVE HAS MANY FACES   -Love is an emotion and emotions move us to action. (John 3:16) God loves us so much that He SENT HIS SON. Action.     COMPASSION - Jesus has compassion on the people as he traveled and preached and healed (Matthew 9:35-10:1). Because of this he PRAYED for God to send the workers because the harvest was plentiful. Then Jesus CALLED TO HIM the 12 disciples, and GAVE THEM AUTHORITY to heal and cast out demons in His name.     GRIEF - John 11:33-44 Jesus was deeply moved and His spirit was troubled watching Mary cry over Lazarus. He joined her in that grief and CRIED with them. Then he RAISED Lazarus.   ANGER - John 2:13-22 Jesus was angry that the temple was being used for commerce at the time of Passover (perhaps even taking advantages of travelers in unfair pricing) so he FLIPPED TABLES, MADE A WHIP OF CORDS AND SCREAMED at everyone as He DROVE THEM OUT of the temple courts. Then Jesus did it AGAIN in Matthew 21:12.     JUSTICE - The Snake Crusher promised in Genesis is coming to finish the job. How kind, comforting and loving for God to bring evil to an end and bring us all the way Home, Aslan-style. A warrior, a robe dipped in blood, a tattoo down His thigh, and a flaming sword. For His glory, and His great love for us.     HUMILITY - To do an accomplish any of this required the humility of God to be born as a baby, nursed by His mother, raised as a refugee, growing into a poor man who was a tradesman, had no home, rejected and despised by men who died for people who once loved Him but now betrayed Him, naked and alone. He lived and suffered an incredible humble life out of love for us.   What we're lovin   Daniel - Xikar Lighters   Heather - A Hallelujah Christmas by Cloverton   Follow us here: Instagram @heathersletters @danielpritchie Facebook @danielpritchie Twitter @danielritchie www.danielritchie.org   

Many will assume that this is the most joyful time of the year, but for a slew of reasons, that's not true for all of us. So how do you fight for that joy when it's not selling up naturally inside of you? Today we discuss 8 weapons we use to fight for joy that are back up by the pages of Philippians in the Bible. We hope God's word and the practical advice derived from it will help you grasp joy in this season. SHOW NOTES 1. Thanksgiving and gratitude practiced daily. - Philippians 1:3-5, 4:4 2. Christ-centered identity. - Philippians 1:21 3. Serving others. - Philippians 2:3-4 4. Detach from worldly things. - Philippians 3:8 5. Don't settle. - Philippians 3:13-14 6. Fill your heart/mind with good things. - Philippians 4:8 7. Don't base your hope on your circumstances. - Philippians 4:11-12 8. Soli Deo Gloria - Philippians 4:20 What We Are Loving: Daniel - To Live Is Christ by Matt Chandler Heather - Lessons From The Precipice, sermon by Matt Chandler, The Village Church Make sure you SUBSCRIBE to this show and leave a REVIEW in iTunes! Thank you for listening! Follow us here: Instagram @heathersletters @danielpritchie Facebook @danielpritchie Twitter @danielritchie www.danielritchie.org   

Today's world is defined by instant gratification, doing things fast and getting results. So no wonder for us to wait for anything tries our patience...and when we are waiting on God to move, it can test our faith. Listen as we discuss practical ways to war in a season of waiting faithfully. We draw from men and women in scripture who waited on a promise, or some who just waited for something to change because life was that bad. We pray it helps you to hold to Jesus when it seems like He isn't moving or hearing you. What we are loving: Daniel - Chick-fil-A Peppermint Milkshake Heather - Rosebud's Salve   Follow What We Are Up To: Instagram - @heathersletters @danielpritchie Facebook - @danielpritchie Twitter - @danielritchie www.danielritchie.org

Looking at the Church and the world, there is a lot of heaviness, sin, struggles and it just feels overwhelming at times. But good news, we have hope in Christ despite all of this. In an effort to turn our hearts from all the evil and dysfunction we sadly tend to focus on, today we discuss 5 ways we see hope for the Church! This episode will remind your heart Jesus wins no matter what and Church has not gone to hell in a hand-basket. SHOW NOTES 1. There is global gospel growth! 2. Cultural Christianity is fading away - this is a good thing! 3. There is a hunger for community. 4. Justice is a concern for the majority and no longer just the margins. 5. Jesus is at the center and we know the end - He wins! What we are loving this week: Daniel - iFlex Heather - Love Beauty and Planet Hand Cream Follow us and hit subscribe to this podcast! Instagram- @heathersletters @danielpritchie Facebook- @danielpritchie Twitter- @danielritchie www.danielritchie.org

This week on The Middle, we share with you guys all of our favorite things that will make great gifts as you dive headlong into Christmas shopping over the Thanksgiving weekend. This is the every man's gift guide. They are all great gifts at reasonable prices.   You can take a look at and get the links to all the items we talked about by CLICKING HERE.   Follow Us Everywhere: Instagram @heathersletters @danielpritchie Facebook @danielpritchie Twitter @danielritchie www.danielritchie.org #themiddlewithdanielandheather     Have a great week! Be kind!

Adoption has always been something that we have talked about on a regular basis. Due in part to our faith but also due to the fact that Heather herself was adopted as an infant. This week we dive into the doctrine of adoption and what that means for the church in the practical ways we live out the new family we have in Christ.   The Theology of Adoption     1) Before adoption was an earthly act, it was a heavenly plan   [Galatians 4:4-5] - "But when the fullness of time had come, God sent forth his Son, born of woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, so that we might receive adoption as sons."     [John 1:12-13] - "But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God, who were born, not of blood nor of the will of the flesh nor of the will of man, but of God."     2) If view of our adoption, we consider doing the same   [Ephesians 5:1] - "Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children."     [James 1:27] - Religion that is pure and undefiled before God the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their affliction, and to keep oneself unstained from the world.     What I Can Do     - Consider adoption for your family   - Talk about adoption & its gospel roots (there's still a stigma about it)   - Give financially to families and organizations involved in adoption (which includes pregnancy centers)   - Serve and give to families that are adopting in your church (babysitting, meals, items kids need)     What We're Lovin   Daniel - Carhartt Beanie & Carhartt Vest   Heather - Influencer Jen Reed   Follow Us Everywhere: Instagram @heathersletters @danielpritchie Facebook @danielpritchie Twitter @danielritchie www.danielritchie.org #themiddlewithdanielandheather     Have a great week! Be kind!

Sometimes the Holy Spirit feels like the ugly stepchild of the Trinity. He isn't talked about often in Baptist circles especially and that's a shame because He brings so much value (not to mention salvation) to us! Listen as we discuss the job and the power the Spirit holds according to Scripture. It will breathe fresh encouragement to your heart today as we uncover the work of the Spirit in your life, the gifts He gives to us and our purpose in using them! The Holy Spirit-Who He Is 1 Corinthians 12:3 Titus 3:5 1 Peter 1:2 Romans 8:26 Luke 12:11-12 The Holy Spirit-Gifts Ephesians 5 1 Corinthians 12:4-11 What we are Loving this week: Daniel- Ozark Trail 30oz. Stainless Steel Tumbler Heather- True Lemon Flavored drink packets *Make sure to hit SUBSCRIBE if you haven't yet and all new episodes (every Tuesday) will automatically upload to your phone!* **If you are listening and enjoying this and think others will too, please SHARE on social media and leave us a super quick review on iTunes. We thank you!!** Follow Us Everywhere: Instagram @heathersletters @danielpritchie Facebook @danielpritchie Twitter @danielritchie www.danielritchie.org #themiddlewithdanielandheather Be Kind.  

“This changes everything.” This being Jesus. When He is Lord of our life and we are pouring into His word...it changes everything! What great news! Join us today as we dissect the hope and importance of being in Scripture daily, how to fight for the time to do it and our top favorite resources to help you no matter what stage or season of life you are in! SHOW NOTES Book Daniel to speak in 2020 at www.danielritchie.org/booktospeak 1 Corinthians 15:1-2 2 Peter 3:18 Philippians 2:16 Study tips: 1. Go slow. 2. Adjust expectations from supernatural to obedient. 3. Write it all down. Resources we recommend: Write the Word Journal by Cultivate What Matters Give Me Jesus Journal by Well Watered Women Women of the Word by Jen Wilkin He Reads Truth (app, Bible, Bible Studies) She Reads Truth (app, Bible, Bible Studies) Gospel Transformation Study Bible Christ Centered Exposition Commentary Series   What we are Loving this week: Daniel - Sleeper - Fantasy Football App Heather - Countdown to Christmas Hallmark movie app   Find Us Here:   Daniel  www.danielritchie.org   Twitter || Facebook ||Instagram    Heather Instagram    Have a great week! Be Kind!