Fight of Faith

Are you weary from the weight of life's trials—physical, emotional, or spiritual? In this episode, we reflect on God's faithfulness in the midst of hardship. Drawing from Ezekiel 34:26 and personal stories of unexpected provision and answered prayer, this devotion reminds us that the Lord still sends showers of blessing—even in our driest seasons. Whether you feel undeserving or overwhelmed, take a few moments to be encouraged and look again to Jesus, who meets us with mercy in every storm.

Micah had it all—career momentum, a luxury apartment, a relationship on the rise. But when one decision costs him everything, his world unravels. Alone, unemployed, and stuck in a place he thought he'd left behind, he stumbles upon a long-forgotten photo… and a truth that breaks through the silence. The Broken Frame is a story about ambition, loss, and the grace that finds us when everything else falls apart.#ChristianFiction #ShortStories

Some secrets refuse to stay buried. When Gus discovers hidden artifacts in his new home, he unwittingly unearths a past darker than he ever imagined. As he pieces together the truth, he finds himself entangled in a story of deception, buried sins, and a lingering darkness that refuses to let go. The Things We Hide is a chilling exploration of what lurks beneath the surface—both in the walls of a house and in the depths of the human soul.#ChristianFiction #ShortStories

Are strong convictions without prayer leading us astray? In this episode, we explore the dangers of being a prayerless theologian—how pride, self-reliance, and a lack of worship can distort even the most orthodox theology.

Many of our deepest anxieties arise from resisting God's providence. In this episode, we explore how surrendering to God's will—even in life's hardest circumstances—can transform our struggles into opportunities for trust and service. Drawing on insights from Sinclair Ferguson and the powerful words of the Methodist covenant prayer, this reflection challenges us to confront our worries with a heart that says, “Your will be done.” Join us as we consider what it means to wholeheartedly surrender and how it can radically reshape our approach to hardship and faith. -Written by Doug Eaton

An Evangelical Tragedy is a short story of Jared, a churchgoer seeking solace after a tough week at work. Immersed in a vibrant worship service and inspired by a motivational sermon, he feels uplifted and renewed. However, a chance encounter with a dejected woman struggling with guilt reveals a deeper spiritual disconnect. While Jared offers words of encouragement, the woman's burden remains unresolved, highlighting the tension between surface-level encouragement and the deeper need for gospel-centered grace and repentance. The story explores themes of spiritual authenticity, unresolved guilt, and the complexities of modern evangelical culture.

In this moving episode, we share an unforgettable story from Mark Eaton, author of And I Heard the Mourner Say. Join us as we journey through the life of Elijah, a young artist facing a devastating diagnosis of early-onset macular degeneration. With each fading sight, Elijah confronts the frailty of his dreams, the haunting beauty of memory, and the resilient hope that lights his darkest days. Listen as he strives to capture beauty without sight, leaving behind a legacy of raw, unflinching art that speaks to the soul.

Have we tamed God into a comfortable version we can control? In this article written by Doug Eaton, we explore the ways our small views of God limit our worship and understanding of His true nature. Join us as we unpack what it means to go beyond a domesticated God, looking at biblical moments, like the plagues in Egypt, that challenge our expectations and draw us into awe. Discover how letting God be God can lead us to greater freedom, trust, and worship.

In this episode, you will hear a short story written by Doug Eaton that explores the unexpected blessings found in life's thorniest moments. Jason's journey from self-glory to spiritual renewal teaches us how God can use pain and struggle to guide us back to His grace. Join us as we uncover the beauty in the thorns surrounding us, revealing God's mercy and love.

Did you know that God once appeared to Moses and sought to kill him? In this article, written by Doug Eaton, we dive into one of the most overlooked passages in Scripture—Exodus 4:24-26. We'll explore its meaning, the mysterious nature of God's discipline, and how this passage foreshadows salvation through faith in Christ.

In this short article, we dive into Paul's warning from Colossians 2:4 about the danger of being led astray by convincing but false arguments. We'll look at the importance of developing a comprehensive Christian worldview—learning to think biblically in every area of life, from work to politics—and how staying rooted in Christ is the key. Discover how taking every thought captive can help build a faith that not only saves but shapes everything we do.

In this short devotional written by Doug Eaton, we are reminded that "everything short of hell is mercy." This profound truth should reshape how we view our hardships, big and small. Eaton walks us through the reality that, as sinners, our lives are already better than we deserve, and every struggle we face is an opportunity to recognize God's grace. From serious challenges like illness and loss to everyday frustrations like traffic and delayed deliveries, everything we endure is a reminder of the mercy we've been given. Tune in as Doug Eaton encourages us to find joy and gratitude in every circumstance, knowing that our trials are temporary, and God's grace is eternal.

This short story by Doug Eaton explores the journey of a man who rises to power within an exclusive group, only to find himself questioning the very path he's taken. As he climbs the ranks, he slowly loses touch with his values, family, and sense of self. Pulled into a vortex of ambition and conformity, he becomes someone he no longer recognizes, all in pursuit of belonging. In this introspective tale, Eaton delves into the cost of success and the dangers of losing oneself in the quest to be part of the privileged few.

In this podcast episode, Doug Eaton reflects on a formative experience from his youth that challenged his simple faith and introduced him to the complexities of reality. Join him as he recounts a late-night memory from the late 1980s, where a seemingly trivial incident at a county fair left a lasting impression. This story delves into the blurred lines between good and evil, the struggles of living out faith in a fallen world, and how those early lessons still resonate today, even in the face of modern-day challenges. Tune in for a thought-provoking exploration of faith, maturity, and the often tangled lines of discourse.

What are the benefits of aging according to Christian wisdom? Listen to this short episode and find out.

In this sermon delivered at Bethel Grace Baptist Church, Doug Eaton explores the power of prayer. Drawing from the teachings of Jesus in the Sermon on the Mount, he examines common misconceptions about prayer and highlights its profound impact on our relationship with God. Throughout the message, Doug provides a verse-by-verse analysis of Matthew 7:7-11. He also identifies five ways prayer can transform our lives, including its power to communicate with God, access blessings, cultivate intimacy, please God, and bring peace and contentment. He encourages listeners to embrace prayer as an essential aspect of their Christian life, emphasizing the need for a consistent and fervent prayer life. Don't miss this opportunity to explore the profound impact of prayer and discover how it is essential to your spiritual walk.

This sermon, "Pursuing Christian Contentment," is based on 1 Timothy 6:6-10. In this powerful message, Doug Eaton delves into the essence of true contentment as a believer and how it contrasts with the fleeting desires of the world. Drawing from the timeless wisdom of Scripture, Doug explores the heart of Christian contentment, which stems from godliness rather than the pursuit of worldly gain. Through a detailed analysis of the passage and practical insights, he uncovers the keys to cultivating contentment in their lives. Through heartfelt reflections and profound truths, this sermon challenges individuals to reevaluate their priorities and find true satisfaction in God alone. Don't miss this opportunity to deepen your understanding of Christian contentment and experience the transformative power of trusting in God's provision, even in some of the most difficult circumstances.

Join Doug Eaton as we confront the norms of surface-level faith and challenge the comfort zones of casual Christianity. Drawing from the rich insights of Scripture, we explore the urgent call to discipleship in the face of spiritual lethargy and complacency. Through a thorough examination of 1 Peter 4:1-11, we uncover the radical demands of true discipleship in the context of the brevity of life. From the urgency of prayer and sober-mindedness to the imperative of self-control and sacrificial love, we confront the status quo assumptions that hinder our pursuit of holiness.

What did Jesus mean when he told us to love our enemies, and what should that look like in out life? This lesson, taught by Doug Eaton at Bethel Grace Baptist Church considers these questions.

This lesson taught by Doug Eaton at Bethel Grace Baptist Church, considers Christ's teaching about turning the other cheek.

How does Jesus' teaching on oaths apply to us? This lesson, taught by Doug Eaton at Bethel Grace Baptist Church, looks into that question.

What did Jesus teach about anger, and how does it apply to us? This Lesson, taught by Scott Kesselring at Bethel Grace Baptist Church, answers these questions?

What is Christ's relationship to the law? That is what is covered in this lesson taught by Doug Eaton at Bethel Grace Baptist Church.

This lesson looks at Christ's teaching that we are salt and light. What does that mean, and is it true of our lives? This lesson was taught by Doug Eaton at Bethel Grace Baptist Church.

This lesson, taught by Doug Eaton at Bethel Grace Baptist church covers the final four beatitudes.

This lesson, taught by Doug Eaton at Bethel Grace Baptist Church, covers the following beatitudes: -Mourning -Meekness -Hungering for Righteousness

Welcome to "The Sermon on the Mount," a series of 16 lessons originally taught at Bethel Grace Baptist Church by Doug Eaton. In this first lesson, Doug kicks off the series with an intro to this timeless teaching and dives into the first beatitude. This episode covers Matthew 5:1-4.

When a man's quiet night takes a terrifying turn, it sets off a terrifying chain of events. What sinister presence haunts him after reading an unsettling horror story? Is it all in his mind, or is something truly lurking in the shadows?

In a world where bad news seems to lurk around every corner, how can you maintain an unshakable heart? This short exploration of Psalm 112:7 delves into the Christian's extraordinary ability to remain unafraid of bad news.

I recently had the opportunity to preach a sermon on Joshua chapter 7 called “Keep Yourself from Things Devoted to Destruction. In it, we look closely at the cost of hidden sin. Join me as we delve into a weighty passage of scripture, exploring the story of Achan in Ai. In the biblical text, we will discover how sin and things devoted to destruction impact our lives, emphasizing the crucial understanding of the exceeding sinfulness of sin. We will uncover the lure of things devoted to destruction and the dire consequences of desiring them. But here is the good news – we will also learn how redemption from this destruction is possible through Jesus Christ.

When the author of Hebrews makes the negative case concerning the blood of Christ, its significance is far-reaching. 

The second half of Hebrews 9 is extremely encouraging. Once you get a glimpse of your Savior in the true Holy of Holies, you may never be the same. This sermon was preached by Doug Eaton at First Artesia CRC in California.

What is the conscience, and, most importantly, how can a guilty conscience be cleansed? We live in a culture of therapy. Guilt and anxiety run rampant, and many people are trying to find relief in ways that will only make things worse. This sermon, preached at First Artesia CRC, looks at Hebrews 9:1-14. After exposing the insufficient remedies for guilt, it points to the one true fountain, where the conscience can be washed clean.

Psalm 3 tells us that salvation belongs to the Lord. In understanding this truth, we will also find that he is our glory and the lifter of our heads. This sermon by Doug Eaton what preached at First Artesia CRC

This sermon by Doug Eaton delivered at First Artesia CRC unpacks 2 Timothy 4:1-5 in three heads. 1. Why preaching the word is the most important activity of the church. 2. What is Preaching? 3. Three ways Christians neglect the preaching of the word.

This is the first of 15 lectures I gave at Bethel Grace Baptist Church teaching through Systematic Theology. This first lesson looks at why we need systematic theology in our lives and basic prolegomena.

How are we to respond to suffering according to the Bible? This short sermon looks at a passage of Scripture filled with bright hope in the middle of what is likely, the saddest book of the Bible. This sermon was preached at First Artesia CRC.

As Christians, we all struggle with spiritual drowsiness. Thankfully, Romans 13 addresses this directly and provides us with encouragement and guidance to fight against it. This short sermon preached at First Artesia CRC explores three questions. What does it mean to be asleep spiritually? Why do we need to wake up? How do we wake up? Here is the Bible passage covered in the sermon: Rom 13:11 Besides this you know the time, that the hour has come for you to wake from sleep. For salvation is nearer to us now than when we first believed. Rom 13:12 The night is far gone; the day is at hand. So then let us cast off the works of darkness and put on the armor of light. Rom 13:13 Let us walk properly as in the daytime, not in orgies and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and sensuality, not in quarreling and jealousy. Rom 13:14 But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh, to gratify its desires.

After Daniel had been delivered from certain death by a revelation given to him by God, he praised God and said, “He knows what is in the darkness.” Once we understand it, this truth should fill our hearts with joy. This sermon preached at First Artesia CRC looks at the context of Daniel chapter 2 and unpacks this phrase and the immense comfort it should bring to our hearts.

What is “the good life” according to the Bible? I recently introduced this topic with a short article on the blog called, To Love Life and See Good Days, but this weekend, I had the opportunity to expand on it at First Artesia Christian Reformed Church. Too often, we look for the good life in the things of the world when Christ is holding out something much more profound. If you desire to love life and see good days, I pray that you will find this short sermon edifying and encouraging.

This sermon looks at the Great Day of the Lord as prophesied by Zephaniah. It is not a light sermon, but it is a necessary one that will serve the Christian's Spiritual life.

This is a clip from a sermon called, How to Live in the Spirit. You can listed to the full sermon here. https://fightoffaithblog.com/2023/01/01/how-to-live-in-the-spirit/

This sermon, was preached by Doug Eaton at Bethel Grace Baptist Church. Since it was New Year's Day, this sermon gives five encouragements to live in the Holy Spirit while also showing how to live in the Spirit. I pray you will be encouraged.

If you are looking for encouragement, spend some time in revelation chapter 21. This short sermon, preached at Artesia CRC, takes a look at our future glory as Christians.

Revelation chapter 5 is a highly uplifting passage once we understand it. Lifting the heads of discouraged saints is one of the primary reasons the Lord gave John the Revelation and had him write it down. If you are looking for a section of scripture to help you through a difficult time, take a few minutes and listen. This sermon by Doug Eaton preached at First Artesia Christian Reformed Church, is for you. Come and learn about the glorious throne of God and how it relates to your future and your present.

86-year-old pastor, Dave Eaton, tells the story of his salvation, call to preach, and ministry. Read more here: https://fightoffaithblog.com/2022/07/19/a-pastors-story-i-left-vegas-a-winner/

When Jesus walked among us, he did not take arms against his enemies. He did not hire a political strategist or form a coup. His weapons of war were much different, and as believers, so are ours. Though we walk in the flesh, we are not waging war according to the flesh. Our weapons are spiritual and have divine power to destroy strongholds (2 Corinthians 10:3-4). We have several defenses in our armory but only one offensive weapon. This episode looks at the power of that weapon.

With this truth in my heart, that God hears and answers prayer, I sit down determined to pray. Then, three or four sentences in, I am thinking about my to-do list at work or that I need to buy gasoline for the mower. I assume I am not alone in my struggle to stay on task while praying. With this challenge in mind, here are three ways to mitigate mental drift while praying.

This is a short devotion based on James chapter 5.

The sexual revolution has so altered the worldview of many that we now often treat fertility as a disease. For women, fertility has ruined careers, holds the glass ceiling in place, and, before the technology was invented to end its tyrannical reign, it even kept women from fulfilling their purpose in life by forcing them to neglect their careers and devote time to nurturing their families. Thankfully, to the secular mind, science has overcome this atrocity, but are we looking for fulfillment in the wrong places?

The King of the Jews rides in on a donkey and it gets him killed, but he will come back riding on a white horse. https://fightoffaithblog.com/2022/05/10/king-of-the-jews/