FriDudes - Getting Real. Pursuing Truth.

Yes!  You are in!  Does this world need more Hope or Hopelessness?  Yes, I do love that rhetorical question.  As for the FriDudes and others that meet everyday of the week, we are in the Hope and Encouragement business.  Part of Hope is getting the wisdom to draw from the ultimate source.  For you have all been betrayed by someone.  For People do Peopleish things...here you go...If you dig that opening hook, that is Marcus Rogers, Best Life, please buy/subscribe to his music...Thank you Pastor Ricky Jenkins for that play of the day.   For there is a church (Southwest Church) out in the oasis of the desert, the valley of Coachella, Indian Wells, California, where you can find more of his brilliant teaching.  For those interested, here is the YouTube link to hear more...https://youtu.be/Qnl4LHMFy8A?si=UV9F0tPoYElTHl70  Avid listener, you know I love to share Rom 3:23.  For many, such an odd verse for you.  I've had some flat out ask me, why, why do you keep saying Rom 3:23.  For it is Truth and it explains a lot.  It absolutely explains the play of the day you just heard.  It explains why someone cheated, betrayed, hurt, ________ you.  We are all flawed.  It doesn't excuse those hurts.  It simply explains why People do Peopleish things.  So if you put all your Hope in people (that even includes your pastor, parents, spouse, boyfriend, girlfriend, politician, etc.).  You will get stung.  Not a matter of IF, it is a matter of When.  Give me enough time and I'll tick you off.  I may have already.  For I am flawed.  I've dug major holes with my ego, my pride.  Yet, I strive to shine a little beacon on my flaws and say my Hope goes beyond the flawed people on this earth (including myself).  My greatest moments have come when I love my Abba, Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit guide first.  You may not be there yet.  Or you may believe yet how much do you really trust?  Are you a follower too?  If you are, you will learn to be content in all circumstances.  Not happy, content. Big difference.  Phil 4: 11-13.  Black belt vs. yellow belt Christianity.  We have believers.  Not enough disciples.  Definitely not enough Disciple Makers.  Check Mat 28: 19-20.  You love Jesus?  He tells you exactly what your mission should be while on this broken planet.  Are you doing that? Quit expecting perfection for people.  For Expectations - Reality = Disillusionment.  That's why many of you are depressed and/or anxious.  You want Hope?  Invest in the Ultimate Power Source.  More Hope, more Love.  Matt 22:  36-40

Jogging Jesus is back!  Versed listener, you know the blessing that is coming.  New listener, you are in for a treat.  Special thanks to Creative Love Church in Bloomington, MN for this one.  You are a blessing to Casey and he is a blessing to you.  I love God's design and plan.  What a gift to share!  If you find yourself in Bloomington, MN, check out and support this beacon.  Before we roll to Casey, here are some questions for you as you listen...Not sure on your purpose?  This message is some clarity for you.  A strong history reflection.  A reminder of life on this broken planet is not fair.Are you a black belt Christian or a yellow belt?  You are going to hear what I call a Black Belt Christian to help encourage you step your game up.Your mission field is out there...wherever you are...do you see it that way?  Case in point, make sure to hang out for gripping testimony at the end of this message.Are you beyond a Sunday box checker?Do people know your love for Jesus Christ?  Do you shine Matt 5:16 Light and Hope?"Your Busy" defines your Priority.This world is desperate.  So are you sharing Hope or Hopelessness?Stick around for that testimony at the end Wow!To follow Creative Love Church, check out the YouTube link in this episode's description page...  https://www.youtube.com/live/b1-eSC5kgtw?si=y24Iw5tr_tUnZYZLOh and if you dig that opening hook, that's Marcus Rogers, Best Life, please support/buy/subscribe his music.

Yes!  You are in!  I got a funny for you.  I went legit LOL on this one.  Yes, Mother's Day is done, yet for some of you, you shouldn't be done...loving, here you go...Once again a secular source to help me point to Biblical Truth.  The Half-Assed Morning Show making their debut.  What a life long accomplishment for them.  Yes, that is tongue in cheek.  And you can find more on that on at the show link in the description.  That episode is called 'Thunder Nugget' published on May 9th, 2025Comedy aside, several angles on that one.https://www.93x.com/shows/half-assed-morning-show/hams-podcast/One, some of you do not have the best mom's.  I've learned that first hand dealing with all the dudes.  So for many of you, it is truly a challenge to love someone that wasn't/isn't so loving.  Picking out a card can be next to impossible for some of you.Deeper take, if you call yourself a Christian, here's a verse for you, washing other's feet.  John 13:14 NIVNow that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another's feet.And that means the not so lovable.  Easy to serve someone you love.  Jesus is crystal clear on loving the ones that need a doctor (mentally, spirtitually or physically).Forgiveness?  You know I have to go there...for some of you are holding on to grudges for far too long, in particular what your parents did or didn't do...Matthew 6:14 NLT“If you forgive those who sin against you, your heavenly Father will forgive you.Ephesians 6:3 (NLT)If you honor your father and mother, “things will go well for you, and you will have a long life on the earth.”Matthew 15:6 (NLT)In this way, you say they don't need to honor their parents. And so you cancel the word of God for the sake of your own tradition.Ten CommandmentsSimply shows you how important the family structure is for our Heavenly FatherBigger picture, if you are married, you should love your wife everyday, not just on anniversary or Valentine's Day.  C'mon player, you can do better.  Have kids?  Go beyond the birthday.  Father's you go it.Most important, good or bad parent, you have the ultimate parent.  Don't forget that.  Give you Abba praise first, every day, throughout the day.  Ask the ultimate for guidance first before any other.Matt 22: 36-40

Thank you Dr. Bryan Loritts, another play of the day.  Thank you Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship in Dallas, TX, for hosting and sharing.  We both agree.  Bryan is an annointed speaker for a season such as this.  I strongly encourage you to listen to the rest of that message.  Simply click the YouTube link in the show description or search "Your God is Too Small" and Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship. https://www.youtube.com/live/qg02n4VfoSM?si=Z7KAiIg7iMKBwyQKThat is such a mic drop that I'm a bit speechless.  Do you know a story like that?  If so, please let us know at FriDudes.com. On the flip side, I know people that filed for divorce for a lot, lot, less.  Heck, I've been upset with my wife of 30+ years for a lot, lot less.  As I've said countless times on this podcast, any relationship you care about, you don't have to be married to get this, any relationship you care about...will not last without grace.  Choosing to give grace, forgiveness.  Choosing to love.  For those 'IN LOVE', falling in and out of love is for rookies.  Sooner or later, you are going to have to choose to love on certain days.  Most certainly, you are going to need to choose forgiveness and grace to keep going.Back to you, that is your relationship with God.  You've cheated on God somewhere.  How do I know that?  Rom 3:23.  Yet we have this amazing gift in Rom 8:1.  Wouldn't we be the ultimate hypocrites is we didn't extend the same.  As stated before, doesn't mean you need to hug it out with that person that hurt you.  It does mean you hand over that hurt to God.  Quit carrying that hurt around like a tattoo on your face.  As for that unbelievable dude in that Play of the Day.  Think about it.  His selflessness kept a family together.  It kept a marriage together.  Most important, it added a new member to the forever kingdom.  A truly amazing story that I am already relaying.  Maybe you too.  Spread what works.Matt 22:  36-40

Yes!  You are in.  A lot of hate out there.  How about you?  Do you love or hate more?  Christians, this play of the day will be a big challenge for some of you?  Here you go...Thank you Marcus Rogers for that opening hook, Best Life.  Please support, buy, subscribe his music.  I do via Apple.  Thank you Pastor Rick Warren for another/countless play of the day.  You can hear more of that listen at Daily Hope, pastorrick.com.  That one was published on the 1st of May 2025, entitled. "You've Got to get Connected, Part 2"Alright you.  Are you a lover or a hater?  If you are not a Christian, you are off the hook.  If you claim Jesus as your Lord and Savior, you are obligated to love.  In fact, I loved the simplicity of that Play of the Day.  We are not allowed to hate people.  We may hate their actions/flaws.  Does everyone approve of everything you do or say?  Are you married?  You don't even need to be married to answer that question.  Of course not, you are flawed, Rom 3:23.  So are your most annoying people.  So do you pray for or curse them?  You don't have to take my words for it.  Nor even Pastor Rick's.  What about your Lord and Savior Jesus Christ's?“Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you” (Matt. 5:44)Your heavenly Father will forgive you if you forgive those who sin against you; but if you refuse to forgive them, he will not forgive you.  Matt 6:14Doesn't mean you need to be besties with those that hurt you.  Not at all.  Trust must be earned...and some never will.  It does mean you let God do what he does best, justice.  On this broken planet or after.  You give that hurt to your Heavenly Father.  Say Abba, this is between you and that person that hurt me now.  I'm tired of carrying that hurt around like a ball and chain.  My brother-in-law Chad, whom I love very much, is an atheist.  He gets quite wrapped up in politics and likes to point out hypocrisy on just one side.  He does have valid points at times.  He shares something about how a book hasn't killed anybody but we will ban books and not guns.  After thought and prayer, I replied, if we all followed Jesus Christ's words in a book called the Bible, there would be no wars, no racism, no hate and no definitely no mass shootings.  Yet there are many that want to ban that very book (far left and far right depending on what sect).  So what does Love got to do with it?  EVERYTHINGMatthew 22:36-40New International Version36 “Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?”37 Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.'[a] 38 This is the first and greatest commandment. 39 And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.'[b] 40 All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.”

Yes!  You are in!  HotRod is in the house!  You don't know HotRod?  Well you are in for a treat.  One of the most unique Christians I have ever met in my life.  And he has a new calling, here you go.To support Rod and the FCA, check out...Minnesota FCA hockey home team support page https://my.fca.org/?form=rodschwarzeMinnesota FCA hockeyhttps://www.minnesotafca.org/hockey 

Normally I say Yes you are in.  This one is a tough lift.  This one is dedicated to you going through a really tough time and asking Why...here you go...Thank you Chris Brown, guest speaking at SW Church, Indian Wells CA.  You can find that one on YouTube.  A Heart of Surrender, published on April 6, 2025.  You can find the link in the show description if so desired.1 Sam 4https://youtu.be/gHmHLCidCCA?si=XjdVK2pSh_2xGkYIChris Brown, guest speaking at SW Church, Indian Wells CAYou can find more of Chris Brown at North Coast Church in Carlsbad and multiple areas mainly in San Diego area, CAhttps://www.northcoastchurch.com/locations/Minute 9:20?, 1 Sam 4 reading, why?12:49, why?13:20 mic drop23:30 reading and summary25:20, have you ever wanted your money back?26:00, it gets worseMinute, 27:00 yep, go!  Sunday School never taught this oneAs some of you are going into Easter weekend or if listening later.  This quote happened during that Holy Week... Father, why have you forsaken me?  Matthew 27:46 and Mark 15:34So if you asked Why.  The Lord and Savior Jesus Christ even asked why.  Chris Brown is correct.  They don't teach that enough in Sunday School or any day for that matter for kids or adults.  Sometimes life is simply really, really hard...and it doesn't get better fast.  Yet what I respect about the Word is it doesn't sugar coat.  We humans can sugar coat it.  That is a mistake.  God doesn't sugar coat.  Jesus Christ does not sugar coat it.  We are told there will be times to mourn Ecc 3:4.  We are told we will be mocked and hated, Matt 5:11.  That we will ALL get sick and die, Rom 6:23.  So why are we suprised?  I'm not saying you should like it.  Versed ones, why are we suprised?  Why are you expecting perfection?Here is where you can expect perfection, Rev 21:4.  When we get away from this broken, brutal planet, for those that 'choose' John 3:16 and Rom 8:1 and Rom 10: 9-10, we get...Revelation 21:4 NLT, Bible.comHe will wipe every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or sorrow or crying or pain. All these things are gone forever.”   

If you dig that opening hook, that is Marcus Rogers, 'Best Life'.  Support and buy his music.Non-Profits featured in this episode that help the homeless...https://ochn.org/https://www.overflowshowers.org/When you live on this broken planet long enough, you will get teed up to help/serve and share with someone.  In other words, somebody is going to ask you for something.    It could be someone you know or a stranger.  I'm flashing back to the guy with a young Indian family (to be clear, immigrants from India)  in the middle of Nebraska.  You can hear that episode here.  He drove up to me with two young kids in the back and a wife that was on the verge of tears.  He claimed that he lost his wallet.  Old me would have probably ignored him.  He doesn't have back up cards?  No digital cards on his phone?  Perfectly understandable human questions and doubts...

Yes!  You are in.  Confession, procrastination is an area of struggle for me.  It is.  My biggest holes dug have been via procrastination and pride.  Here you go...If you dig that opening hook that is Marcus Rogers, Best Life.  Please buy his music.Word!  Pastor Ricky Jenkins is that Play of the Day.  Southwest Church, Indian Wells, Ca.  That came from YouTube and you can find it at the link below (in the episode description) or simply search "What Would Jesus Say to the Procrastinator", March 24, 2025.https://youtu.be/MI2gNwBp_qk?si=ojDCx6ZvSyhq51x8If that resonates, I highly recommend you listen to the rest of it.  Well, one thing I learned is that I'm not alone.  You all procrastinate somewhere.  Yes, some do better than others.  Yet take a look in the mirror  (health, marriage, a strained family relationship, Faith, obeying God?).  Think about it.  You have a weak spot somewhere.  Otherwise, you would be perfect and don't need Jesus Christ.  Yet, I know you do via Rom 3:23 and your flawed nature.Now, I bet you are really good and proactive at some things.  For example, health comes super easy to me.  I exercise just about every day.  I eat healthy almost every day.  I fast often.  I can control my food and liquid intake.  How about you?  So you are procrastinating somewhere.Where do I stumble?  Finances.  I've been clear on that over this podcact.  Accounting for me is like eating spinach for some of you.  So I'm taking Pastor Ricky's advice.  I'm starting with a little bit or step each day.  So far, this week, I've done it.  I've already done more about my procrastination then I have in a long time.  By taking little, baby steps.Where do you need to improve?  What have you been delaying?  Who do you need to talk to?  Write it down.  Challenge yourself a little bit 6 out of 7 days per week.James 4:17 - Remember, it is sin to know what you ought to do and then not do it.  New Living TranslationMan that verse cuts.  I don't share it as a guilt check as much as a reality check.  We all have room for improvement.  Also, be free in knowing we all have room for improvement.  And then honor your Abba and say ok, here is where I'm going to start at better.  Please God, here is my area, guide me.Lastly, whatever you are trying to do, do it with love.  Love God, Love Others.  Matt 22: 36-40.  Everything else you are trying to do...even overcoming procrastination hangs on doing those two commandments first, loving God.  Loving Others.  Doing what you know you should be doing is loving God.  

If you dig that opening hook, that is Marcus Rogers, "Best Life", please buy his music.  Yes!  You are in!  We are getting Real and Pursuing Truth.  Going through some tough times?  Welcome to the club.  An agnostic makes the play of the day, yeah you heard that right, atheists and agnostics have made the plays of the days.  Personally, I love it when secular points to Truth and the bigger picture.  Here you go...Right on!  As much as we may not like resistance, it can serve a purpose.  That Play of the Day came from the Adam Carolla podcast.  Not his first play on this platform.  Like I said, I have no problem using secular when it points to Truth and the bigger picture.  The guest is Joel Lambert, former Navy Seal.  Oh side note, this an independent podcast.  When it comes to politics and the bigger picture, one of the best pieces of advice came from one pastor Named Kenton Beshore of Mariners Church in Orange County, CA.  He said if a church chooses a side (in this case Democrats and Republicans) you put a wall to the other side.  John 16:33New International Version33 “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”Avid listener, you know I've brought this up many times.  The Greatest in the Bible went through the hardest times.  Do you want to be the greatest?  Maybe not.  If you want to be part of the greatest, you are going to understand this.  Let's go to science for a bit.  How do you get stronger?  Physically?  Mentally?  How do you run a marathon or get a PHD?  A lot of resistance.  I am convinced the anxiety and depression that plagues this nation has a lot to do with avoiding resistance.  Wanting or getting things handed to us.  Ferverent prayers, you know that you don't get everything you pray/ask.  Well, you do, just not the way you expect.  Yes, I know the verse of what you ask you get.  I believe God is much more concerned about your and my character than comfort.Side note, I'm still being refined, especially economically.  Hasn't come easy.  I'm not a super wealthy man, monetarily.  Maybe that's to keep me humble.  So I owe and off to work I go.How about you?  Are you striving for more comfort or strength?  Hey, I don't blame you for going for comfort.  I've done the same.  Yet the wise want stronger.  Stronger in the Word.  Stronger in the Lord.  Stronger in the mind and heart.  So be reaffirmed your suffering/resistance has purpose.  Jesus was whipped, tortured and nailed to a cross...and it wasn't for nothing...and you benefit from it...if you choose.  Romans 8:28New International Version28 And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who[a] have been called according to his purpose.  John 3:16 NIV:  For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.Side note, some of you are enduring or have endured some really hard things.  To be clear, I'm not trying to minimize them.  I'm not excusing that person or people that hurt you.  I am going to encourage you to handle it like Jesus Christ.  Hint: what did he say to those people in the peak of his pain on the cross?  Victim or Victor.  Your choice.  Lastly, put your hurts to use and help others.  Who better to help someone with cancer than one that knows that battle?  Where have you suffered the most?  There you go.  That is the key to have your heart overflow.  Now, go Love

Yes you are in!  Did you get attacked this week?  Welcome to the club.  For we are guilty of both.  Why?  You know we are in the Hope and Encouragement business.  Part of Hope is learning and understanding flaws yours and mine.  Here is your Play of the Day...Thank you Pastor Rick Warren for another mic drop.  We don't have an official count yet I believe you are our mic drop leader.  Lots of wisdom in Daily Hope.  What a teacher.  God has blessed you for an extended season of wisdom.Opening hook, Best Life by Marcus Rogers.Okay, how about you?  Does that make sense?  Avid listener you know I play the Rom 3:23 card pretty much every week.  Why?  Because we are ALL flawed.  Ok, some more than others yet that verse explains a LOT!  Most of us attract people with our best behavior.  Then, over time, our flaws get exposed.  Flaws = friction.  The best relationships you know don't avoid friction.  They just navigate friction very well.  Whether you believe in Jesus Christ or not, your relationships will not last without implementing his teachings.  Matt 7: 24-27 is one of my favorites.  Jesus' words...What are Jesus' teachings, fruits of the Spirit:  Grace, Forgiveness, Serving one another, Love, Choosing to Love.Blessed are the peacemakers.  Doesn't mean you are supposed to be besties with everyone.  Some people you are best to keep your distance.  As for those that you took an oath in marriage in front of God or your children or best friends, you will navigate friction well by following Jesus' teachings.  Lori and I have been married for 30+ years now.  Jesus is the reason and why we have navigated some very hard times/storms.  Share what works.  Confession, My worst holes dug and I have dug some biggies have come when leaning on my own understanding and pride.  Tough Love is part of love.  Jesus gave tough love. If you listen to the rest of that Daily Hope, "What Destroys Relationships and What Builds Them Up, Part 3", published on 7 March 2025, Pastor Rick gets into it.  As the saying goes, friends tell you what you want to hear.  True friends will lovingly tell you what you need to hear.  Confession, I have lost friends over this.  Not everyone wants to hear what they should hear.  For the record, I will welcome them back with open arms.  I will also keep telling them what they need to hear.  Their choice to stick around.  How do you know if you are sharing great advice?  Crucial question.  Let the Owner's Manual for Life be your guide.  Then let those that know the Owner's Manual for Life best also be your quality control.  James 5:19-20 says, "My brothers and sisters, if anyone among you wanders from the truth and someone should bring that person back, remember this: Whoever turns a sinner from the error of their way will save them from death and cover over a multitude of sinsProverbs 12:1New International Version12 Whoever loves discipline loves knowledge,    but whoever hates correction is stupid.Matthew 18:15-17New International VersionDealing With Sin in the Church15 “If your brother or sister[a] sins,[b] go and point out their fault, just between the two of you. If they listen to you, you have won them over. 16 But if they will not listen, take one or two others along, so that ‘every matter may be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.'[c] 17 If they still refuse to listen, tell it to the church; and if they refuse to listen even to the church, treat them as you would a pagan or a tax collector.When in doubt, Matt 22: 36-40

Yes, more wisdom coming your way.  James from Compton is back!  3rd episode.  I love this brother from another mother.  His voice has power.  He is tuned into the Ultimate Power Source.  He shares what didn't work in life and what did.  You get to benefit from it.  Share it.  Here you go...If you dig that opening hook, that is Marcus Roger and 'Best Life', subscribe and buy his music.If you dig and would like more James from Compton.  Back up and listen to his extended episodes on 9/29/2023 and 6/28/24 (with his lovely wife Cathy).

Yes!  You are in!  I'd say you are in for a treat.  This is way bigger than a snack treat.  This is some serious wisdom.  Meet Gary Paxton.  Former CEO of Dollar Rent A Car.  Made a ton of money yet something was missing.  He chooses to address the TuesDudesPM, a bunch of 25 year old men seeking wisdom with this them, "What Advice Would Gary Give His 25 Year Old Self?"  Confession, Gary gets real and raw.  The recording is a little choppy too as we deal with bandwidth issues.  Yet, you'll get the overall message.  Thank you Gary!  Thank you Young Bucks for choosing to tune in.  Oh, if you dig that opening hook, that is Marcus Rogers, Best Life, give him some love.  Buy/subscribe his music, here you go...

There are times in life where you will get Whoa moments.  So stunning and amazing that you are gifted to witness and share it.  I had one of those this week.  Stunning!  Since this is a podcast, I'm going to ask you to go to FriDudes.com and check out the video on the blog.  Or if you trust me, let me describe it for you.I'm driving my way to MonDudesPM in La Quinta, CA and I see a luminescent cloud stream in the air about the mountain.  Kind of like Northern Lights yet very distinct.  So compelling, I had to pull over and get out of my car to get a closer look.  As I veer to my left, I see what looks like a spaceship flying through the sky.  Okay, before some of you get too excited, it wasn't an alien.  It was SpaceX and their Falcon 9 over the SoCal sky.  So cool!  The video doesn't do it justice yet at least will give you an idea.  So how do I steer this to Deeper?  Oh yeah, you know I'm going to go there and encourage you.  Just like those brilliant engineers behind that rocket, you are gifted and called for an even greater mission.  Greater than that?!  Greater than that.  Think of those engineers behind the rocket.  Literal rocket scientists.  They are gifted.  Gifted with big brains for science and math.  What about you?  You may not be a rocket scientist yet I guarantee you are gifted...in something.  How do I know that?  Psalm 139:13-14New International Version13 For you created my inmost being;    you knit me together in my mother's womb.14 I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;    your works are wonderful,    I know that full well.You are not here by accident.  You are here for a reason.  It is your job to tune in and know why.  Perhaps why you are listening to this right now.  By the plans to do good and to love, if you are not doing that well, then you know you are on the wrong path or not.  As for good and plans to prosper you, check this out...Bonus, if you dig that opening hook, check out Marcus Rogers!  Subscribe by his music.  That song is called 'Best Life'!

Yes, you are in!  If you dig that opening hook, that is Marcus Rogers, Best Life.  Please subscribe/stream$ that music.  I bought his albums and love them.  Very strong!  Especially if you like high energy/pump up music.How often do you write things down?  How about your goals?  New Year's Resolutions dead?  What actually works?  Here you go...This is a lot of work.  You are right.  Do or drift.  95% of all American do not have any written goals.  Only 5% and they also happen to be the highest earners.  Is the next 10 years of your life worth a few hours of reflecting, planning and reviewing?  Thank you Pastor Rick. You can learn more from that Play of they Day at Daily Hope, that episode is entitled, "Your Choice - Blessed or Stressed - Part 2", published on the 21st. of January 2025.If you were motivated by that, will you let us know.  Simply hit us up at the Contact Us page at FriDudes.com.  We have a program called GCrossSurf and we would love to tell you more about it.  Living your Best Life starts by writing it down.  As for money, versed ones, you know that money isn't everything.  This goes way beyond money.  This goes to did you live your Best Life while on this broken planet.  Some of you are already getting played by the enemy and thinking you made too many mistakes.  Are you still breathing?  Then you can start rallying.  It's not about how you start.  It is about how you finish.  Finish strong.  2 Tim 4 Verses 6-87 I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. 8 Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.But I tell you that men will have to give account on the day of judgment for every careless word they have spoken (Matthew 12:36). So then, each of us will give an account of himself to God. Therefore, let us stop passing judgment on one another (Romans 14:12)Are you in the 5%?  Start praying and writing it down.  Ask God boldly, why am I here?  What do you want me to do today?  In the next 10 years?  If looking for more inspiration, check out Pastor Rick's book 'Purpose Driven Life'.  Next contact us at FriDudes.com and we'll introduce you to the GCrossSurf, Best Life Planning Book.Now go, love God, love Others, that should absolutely be at the top of your plan.  Check Matt 22:36-40.  Everything else you are trying to do correctly hangs on doing those two first.  I love you.  Go...

Normally I say Yes, you are in.  Definitely thanks for choosing to listen in.  Extra thanks when you give us input at FriDudes.com. We hear you.  More group and interviews on the way.  As for today and the subject of fires, I call Southern California home.  Yet even if you live in Alaska this will apply to you.  A reflection on fires, you all have them in life either figuratively or literally.  Here you go...Shout out to Marcus Rogers on that opener.  I bought and listening to his albums.  Some of my fave new music.  Please do the same if you dig that opening hook.  Give thanks for what is worthy.  Phil 4: 6-8, good segue as we talk fires.What fires do you have in your life?  Relationships stressed?  Finances?  Addiction?  You do have fires.  How do I know this?  Rom 3:23.Granted some worse than others.  On January 7, 2025, the LA fires have been a huge wake up call and some serious humble pie for some of the most proud and rich.  Instantly makes me think of an Insta post by my wife of a LA celebrity.  This celeb is known for her brashness.  I'm not going to name her.  For she has been humbled.  She asked that others avoid shallow posts based on beauty, etc.  Ironic part, didn't ask to pause those during the hurricanes in FL or pick your disaster of the day on this broken planet.  Truth, there are disasters and tragedy everyday for somebody on this broken planet.  For most, you only get proper perspective when it happens to you.  Think Job or any other MVP in the Bible.  That book is a tough read.  Whatever gets your mind gets you.  Rick WarrenSo many verses and so many directions we could go with this.  What gets your mind?  Which fire, good or bad?  Your wealth or desired wealth?  Your health?  Your home?  A relationship?  A drug?  Phil 4: 6-8Lastly, back to the MVP's, bad things do happen to good/great people.  A news bite I recently watched was of a man who lost his home in the Eaton Fire (Atladena), next to him was his neighbors house that looked untouched and now called 'Touched by God".  The reporter asked him why God didn't save his house.  His reply, "I guess God doesn't care about me.".  I do get that initial reaction.  I'm sure some of you do too.  Yet, it is a lie he is believing.  Versed ones.  You know what Jer 29:11 says.  You know what happened to Job and Moses and Elijah and Jacob and David and Daniel, jump ahead the disciples and Paul and most important God's own son.  Did God not care about seeing his son who was tortured and nailed to a cross?  Terrible things happen to the best.  Yet versed ones, you know Rom 8:28.  This podcast alone is full of stories of Hope and redemption out of awful.  Back to the LA fires, if you want to help.  Lots of options.  We have chosen to support Convoy of Hope.  As for further ideas hit us up and/or stay tuned.  Learn from these fires.  Palisades started with a spark.  And apparently a lack of preparation (water!) and resources.  Ironically, I can relate to that when my finances caught on fire.  I'm still working on that fire.  That's how big it was.  It's another reason I'm so passionate about Greg's GCrossSurf ministry, life planning with the Lord and infusing accountabilty in our lives.  Something I see sorely lacking in most small groups.  

Yes!  You are in!  How are you doing with your New Year's resolutions?  1&Done?  More likel NoneDone  Per Greg, most people fail their resolutions by January 14th!  So you are not alone.  What works?  Lasting change?  Here you go...Yes, thank you again Marcus and the ThursDudes for that priceless nugget.  Listener, you are trying to do all these things yet do you have the Ultimate Power Source involved?  Do you know the verse Pro 19:21?Proverbs 19:21 says, "Many are the plans in a person's heart, but it is the Lord's purpose that prevails". Pro 16:9 says, We can make our plans, but the LORD determines our steps.Pro 16:3 says, Commit your actions to the LORD, and your plans will succeed.Doesn't mean you don't plan and go for it.  It does mean you best check your goals with God.  And also don't be surprised when your plans change.  Can you imagine how much better our anxiety levels would be if we could make peace with that.  Confession, I'm still working on this.Versed listeners, your goal for life is clear, to become more Christ like each day.  Can you imagine this world if we all did that?  No more wars, no more killing, no more terrorist strikes, no more mass shootings, etc.  Ok, odds are that you don't commit horrific acts.  Yet being more Christ like is loving God with all your heart, soul and mind.  This includes daily in the Word, praying, fasting and of course loving others.  Check Matt 22: 36-40.  Confession, I have room for improvement.  So do you.  How do I know that?  Check Rom 3:23.  If you think your poop doesn't stink, that is a serious problem right there.For those inspired, I am reading Practicing the Way by John Mark Comer right now.  Next you need a small/accountability group.  To learn more about Marcus, Greg, the Dudes, Alpha, Rooted, GCrossSurf, hit us up at the contact page at FriDudes.comNow go, Love God, ask him what you should be doing this year, read the Bible to get your answers, all of it, not just an isolated portion to justify something (that's where people go rogue and justify evil in their minds).  Next love others, that includes the ones not so lovable.  I love you, go...

Yes!  You are in!  What a great way to start the year!  Happy New Year!  And if you happen to be listening to this in July, you can start in July.  You don't have to wait for January to start a new initiative.  So how about you?  Are you maximizing your God-given gifts for the greater Purpose?  Meet Marcus, here you go...Thanks for joining.  Yes there is more, stay tuned for Part 2 of 2.  Do you detect wisdom via Marcus?  I sure do. I verify to you he is truly and Iron Sharpens Iron brother.  If you haven't fasted yet, back up and check out Casey and the Fast and the Christmas.  Get closer to your Heavenly Father.  Ask Him why he wired you the way he did?  What you can do more with the strengths that He has gifted you.  Write it down.  Share with a few selected/trusted others to hold you accountable.  Oh if you would like to learn more about Alpha or GCrossSurf or Rooted, hit us up at FriDudes.com.Living your Best Life and if you dig that opening hook that is Marcus Rogers and the song is called...'Best Life'.  Give him love and buy/stream his music. Now go, love your creator and Heavenly Father with all your heart, soul and mind.  That includes better tuning in and using your gifts to honor Him and also leverage those same strengths to better love on others.  Get it?  Got it.  Good.  Check Matt 22: 36-40.  Everything else you are trying to do well hangs on doing those two first.  Now go...

Yes!  You are in!  Merry Christmas!  For many this can be a season of indulgence.  Confession, I will be eating some fun food.  Confession, I also love eggnog.  Shhhhh.  And today we are going to talk... health and fasting.  Haha!  Leave it to a calling by Greg and answer by the Jogging Jesus, oh and if you dig that intro check out Marcus Rogers and his song Best Life.  Give him some love. Here you go...Bonus points for you to listen about fasting and health (spiritually and physically).    Even if by chance you are listening to this in July,  this will apply.  For those that loved the Lord and wanted to get closer to God, that wanted to hear God better...fasted.  How about you?  Hey, you heard my confession.  I got this much later in life.  So if this is a new challenge for you, go for it.  Test it for yourself.  If you really love Jesus then follow His lead.  If you by chance are a pastor, that listen is a gut check.  Casey is right.  Many pastors don't talk about fasting enough.  Case in point, I grew up in church.  I can't recall a fast growing up.  I don't recall any pastor talking about it.  I can think of giving something up for lent.  If you have preached on fasting and challenged your church, well done.  Keep going.  On the spiritual or physical health front, odds are there is or will be room for improvement for you.  Me?  Heck yeah.  For we are all Rom 3:23.  There is always room for improvement.  So as you think about your goals for 2025 and beyond, if you would like to learn more, have questions for Casey or Greg on fasting or GCrossSurf and life planning, hit us up at FriDudes.com.  So now go, love God, with all your heart, soul and mind.  That includes fasting.  Fasting is absolutely a way to show God how much you love.  Next, love others.  Encourage some loved ones to do this with you.  For you all will be stronger for it.  Matt 22:36-40.  Merry Christmas

Yes!  You are in for seconds with Resilient Richard.  First time?  Back up one episode if you will.  What gifts from God, these Dudes have been from the Central Valley of California.  Do you love or need a story of Hope and redemption?  Me too!  As I love to ask the skeptic, does this broken planet need more Hope or Hopelessness.  Hope, here you go...Wow!  Thank you Richard!  And thank you Daniel the Faithful, Rogelio the Real and Powerful Paul.  Thank you Spirit Filled Church in Indio, CA and getting me up near Big Bear, CA.  Thank you Life Church, Visalia and the others in that area for sending me those Bold Brothers.  What a series!  What a gift!  Note that, I prayed and asked specifically.  God delivered exactly what he thought best.  Not what I was thinking.  What he was thinking.  We are all blessed by it.If you haven't seen the article posted, you can find some pictures of the guys and event here...https://www.fridudes.com/post/giving-thanks-for-visalia-caA few challenges for you...Most important, are you ready to give a stranger or loved one the reason that you have Hope? 1 Peter 3:15.  Each of these brothers were ready.  Practice and then pray for God to tee you up.  Get ready, you will be sharing and encouraging more shortly.Next challenge.  Since many of you listen across the states and some around the world, pray on making a pilgrimage to Cali.  You have brothers and sisters here.  If you haven't seen Sequoia and Yosemite yet (check that post), schedule that trip and add Life Church in Visalia to your itinerary.  Fresno is nearest airport.And/or come to the Coachella Valley.  You have brothers and sisters here too.   Palm Springs is nearest airport.  You could also fly into Ontario, LAX or San Diego.  Check out overflowshowers.org calendar for service sights and locations.  Check out Spirit Filled Church, Victory in Christ, RedDoor, Abundant Life Churches in Indio and Southwest Church in Indian Wells.  Want to learn more.  Questions for the brothers and/or sisters, hit us up at FriDudes.com.  Bonus, sign up and qualify for a Deep Hike in the region (actual hiking and Bible study in the desert and/or up in the surrounding mountains).  Hint:  Check out Joshua Tree National Park or Painted Canyon in Mecca).Philippians 4:6-8, New International Version6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.8 Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.

Yes!  You are in!  Meet Resilient Richard.  About 20+ years ago, he was on his deathbed.  So he and those involved thought.  What happened?  Glad you asked, here you go...https://www.behindthewalls.com/https://www.fridudes.com/post/giving-thanks-for-visalia-ca

Yes!  You are in!  Meet Daniel the Faithful.  Why Faithful?  Let me tease this, you listen to what happened to Daniel and then I'll ask you.  Would you still go to church after this happened to you?  Would you stop believing in God?  Daniel didn't.  He kept going and now he's realizing Rom 8:28.  It is quite and amazing testimony.  It stopped me in my tracks.  Daniel the Faithful, here you go...Thank you Daniel!  Super bold.  Super brave.  I know people who left church after a lot less.  I know people who became atheists for a lot less.  That is an amazing testimony of Faith, perseverance and Rom 8:28.  Avid listener, versed ones, you know that Rom 8:28 is one of the best promises in the Bible.  For Good and better yet Amazing will come out of brutal.  So for you that are done and out.  Heart broken. This is for you.  Your Best Life is coming if you so choose to embrace and believe in God's promise in Rom 8:28.  Don't give up.  Keep going.  Love God with all your heart, soul and mind.  Next, love others.  Matt 22: 36-40.  Side note, show me someone doing that despite brutal, that is Faith.  That is a powerful testimony.  Think Daniel the Faithful.  Now go live your Best Life.  If you dig that opener, check out Best Life by Marcus Rogers, give him some love, buy his music and support him.  I love you.  Thanks for listening.  Now go love...

Yes!  Casey is back.  Back again!  The Jogging Jesus going Old School and sharing lessons from thousands of years ago that are still so relevant to today.  Our land does need some healing.  Here you go...Opening Song:  "Your Peace Will Make Us One" by Audrey Assad, give her some love and buy/support her music.

Yes!  You are in!  Rogelio the Real is back!  Rogelio is a gift from God.  Thank you dear Brother for being so real and bold.  Sharing Truth on what didn't work in your life and what did.  Talking tattoos and past decisions and further reflections.  Thanks again my dear Brother Rogelio.  Getting Real and sharing Truth.  A shout out to Rogelio's sister.  You are seen faithful one.  Good and faithful servant.  You suffered profound loss and yet you still believe in God.  God bless Julian.  You will see him again.  Rev 21:4.  For now, you know, Julian helped bring your family back together.  Blue the Dog, how about you?  Are you guilty for loving an animal too much?  I do believe God gifts us certain animals.  We get a taste of unconditional love through many of these pets.  No judgement.  Quick to forgive.  Why do most people love and get along with animals because they can't talk back...haha!  Dad's.  Most of you have/had challenging ones.  A few of you have/had awesome earthly Dad's.  I had one of them.  However, you see your earthly Dad or don't for that matter, you do have the Ultimate Heavenly Father.  He loves you dearly.  Every testimony recorded on this podcast reflects that.  We think we are unbreakable until we get broken.  Truth, we were broken from the start...Rom 3:23.  Hence, we all need Rom 8:1.  So knowing that love your Heavenly Father with all your heart, soul and mind.  And just like that.  Love others.  Especially the ones hardest to love.  Pray for your enemies.  Do acts of kindness.  Everything else you are trying to do correctly hangs on doing those first two.  Not my words.  Your Jesus Christ's words, check Matt 22: 36-40.Speaking of Love, give some love and support Can you hear Rogelio striving to live his Best Life?  Getting past the temporary highs that let us all down eventually?  Roger that!  Ending on an upbeat, Best Life by Marcus Rogers.  Buy it, add it, stream it, give him some love.  If you dig, please share with someone else also looking for an upbeat and a Best Life...I love you, now go love some more...

Yes!  You are in!  Meet Rogelio the Real.  Powerful Paul blazed the trail getting Real.  Enter Rogelio and he flat out brings it.  Getting Real...sharing what didn't work in life.  Pursuing and Sharing Truth on how is life got way better.  Buckle up, here you go...

Yes!  You are in!  Meet Powerful Paul.  My name for him.  He struggled with porn and co-dependencies.  Now free and stronger.  We tackle what works.  Getting Real and Pursuing Truth.  God put him on my path up the top of Pali Retreat near Big Bear, CA.  Showed me a good tree producing good fruit, ironically quite a few from the region of Visalia, CA.  This one called Life Church.  Speaking of good trees producing good fruit, a Special thanks to Spirit Filled Church in Indio, CA for getting me up there.  You think California is Godless.  Think again...here you go...WOW!  Epic.  Do you pray for God to put people on your path that you may encourage and sharpen?  In return, they can sharpen you.  Iron sharpens iron Pro 27:17.  What are you wrestling with?  Paul opened my eyes on Celebrate Recovery.  I thought it was just alcohol and drugs recovery.  Thank you for enlightening me and others, Paul!  As usual, questions and comments?  Let us know at the 'Contact Us' page at FriDudes.com.  If you are so moved by Paul's testimony, you can check out https://celebraterecovery.com/Now go, Love God, Love Others, whatever else you are trying to do hangs on doing those two correctly first.  Not my words. Jesus Christ's word, Matt 22: 36-40.  I love you, now go love.  Pray for that next person that God will put on your path.  How about that new opener?  Strong!  Best Life by Marcus Rogers...if you dig, give him some love and buy that music

Yes!  You are in!  Meet Brother Gilbert aka Gilberto.  He was dealing drugs.  Now he's dealing Hope.    If you like success stories, case studies, results, getting real and pursuing Truth…I'm stoked to share part of his story with you.  Here you go...Thank you my dear Brother Gilberto of Victory in Christ Church, Indio, CA.  A beacon for Christ.  Shining Matt 5:16NIV In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.If you are so moved, please reach out to him.  You frustrated with this world?  Invest in sources that work.Odds are that you know an addict.  Avid listener knows that I am active in streets of the homeless with my brothers and sisters of Overflowshowers.org.  Working with key church partners like Spirit Filled, Abundant Life, Southwest, RedDoor and sweet Brother Gilbert and Victory in Christ church.  So we know addicts.  The bulk of those on the streets are addicted...contrary what others will tell you as they ask for your dollars.  Brother Gilberto is another living, breathing example that changed hearts = changed lives.  Giving God thanks for the merciful judge.  What a story!  Please share that one.  Please rally around Pastor Gilbert and his efforts.  Pray on it?  Ask what you should do next.Now GO, love God and love others, Matt 22: 36-40.  Everything else you are trying to do correctly hangs on those two.  

Reflections and some Deep Takes from some of the most beautiful places on this earth.For pics and vids, go to...https://www.fridudes.com/post/sequoias-to-sierras-oh-my

Yes!  You are in!  It's been awhile.  Where have I been?!  In the mountains!  Yes, epic trip to the Sequoias, Sierras, Yosemite, Tahoe.  Some of God's masterpieces.  That will be a future episode.  For now, some more good fruit from good trees.  Another Abundant Life and Overflow story that must be told.  Do you love inspirational stories?  Life change?  Impact?  Me too!!!  Meet Misty and Donna, on site at Abundant Life Church in Indio, CA, serving the unhoused and shower services provided by Overflowshowers.org.  We discuss where and how Misty and Donna got involved and created something called Compassion Cafe, maybe just maybe you'll be next to do the same or maybe you will help them/us, here you go...What a bright light!  Love it!  Praise God!  If you are so moved, hit us up at FriDudes.com for more information.  You can also learn more by going directly to Abundant Life Church in Indio, CA.  You can also learn more at Overflowshowers.org.  If you call yourself a Christian then your Jesus's words are crystal clear in Matt 25:40.  Do onto the least of these and you do unto me."  Jesus' words.  That's what I see with Spirit Filled, Abundant Life, Overflowshowers.org and their other locations.  If you are part of that in anyway, donor or volunteer, you are part of this story.  For you that are not quite sure, where are you complaining the most?  That's usually an indicator of where you best serve.  Just a humble reminder, I used to complain about the unhoused.  So be careful where you complain.  I would ask what is wrong with them.  Why don't they just get a job?  And for the ones that get involved.  You learn it is much more complicated than that.  It also explains why governments and their billions can't fully solve it either.  For this is a heart issue.  Heart change = life change.  Now go, love God, love others.  Matt 22: 36-40.  That is exactly what you just heard.  Everything else you are trying to do, everything, hangs on doing those two first...Loving God, Loving Others.  It is that simple.  We humans can make it complicated.  

Yes!  You are in!  Thank you!!  You are in for a treat.  For I get to introduce you to a very special person:  Robert.  He was hopeless, homeless and hooked on fentanyl.  What turned things around for him?  Here you go...Thank you Robert, what a shining Light!  Think about that.  Hopeless, homeless and addicted to fentanyl.  Now full of Hope.  Jesus Christ in is in the heart transforming business.  A skeptic can try and debate.  One can't argue that result.Special thanks to Abundant Life Church in Indio, CA.  If this tugs on your heart and you would like to look into starting your own Compassion Cafe for those unhoused.  Check out this beacon.  Misty, Chris, Beto, Gilbert, Jonathan, Tammy, George and so many more.  I'm blown away by their volunteer ratio.  Special thanks to Overflowshowers.org (Gary, Jackie, Ryan, Katie, Lori, Matthew and so many volunteers and very generous supporters).  All making that moment recorded and so many more possible.  If you served and donated in any way, you are a part of that.  Extra thanks to a good and faithful servant named Laguna Dave who got me out in the streets for the first time serving the homeless in the streets of Coachella Valley.  Opened my eyes to see others like Robert and Taylor for the sons and daughters that they are.Co-founder Gary once said that government won't solve this...and he's right.  CA is up to $24B in tackling this issue in the last few years and it got worse.  $24B!  Go back to Robert.  This is a heart issue.  If you are an addict or know an addict, you are not getting better until you really, really want to get better.  The heart must change.  Ending on a prayer note...

Yes!  You are in!  We are all wrestling with something.  How do I know that?  Rom 3:23.  For where there are flaws, there is friction.  So how do we solve this?  Here you go...Dr. Lorrits, back for another play of the day.  You got to Name it to Tame it.  Brilliant!  If you would like to hear more of that play and I highly recommend it, check out the Bryan Lorrits Podcast, "Scarlett Letters: Overcoming Shame", published on the 14th of July 2024.Avid listener, you know my wrestling matches and my biggest holes dug.  I've confessed my debts and I am still a work in progress.  James 5:16New International Version16 Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.For the avid Bible reader, you know about Paul's wrestling match.  Romans 7:15 in the Bible says, "For what I am doing, I do not understand; for I am not practicing what I would like to do, but I am doing the very thing I hate".You ever notice that he doesn't Name it.  He doesn't name his struggle.  In fact, the MonDudes group was just discussing this.  Wondering what it is.  What was the struggle?  For those heaven bound, perhaps we will find out.  Ending on a prayer note

Yes!  You are in!  Once upon a time, we did an episode called 'Expectation - Reality = Disillusionment'.  Odds you are disillusioned somewhere in life right now.  Or you know someone that is, so this 'Play of the Day' is for you.  Whether you are married or not, this applies.  You went into something thinking one thing.  And now it is quite another.  Here you go...Wow!  He's baaaaaaack!  Pastor Warren works his way.  We only share mic drops on this podcast and this is definitely one of them.  You can hear the rest of that one and the entire series for that matter at DailyHope.com.  As for that Play of the Day, check out 'Learning to Trust God, Part 1', published on the 12th of July 2024.  Wisdom is perspective.  This message doesn't have to apply if you are married.  Maybe it is a broken relationship.  Maybe it is your job.  Maybe it is a trip.  Maybe it is your church.  Your pastor.  This podcast, haha!  This is a test.Live on this broken planet long enough and you will be disappointed.  How do you handle it?  Are you content in all circumstances?  When I have my A game I am.  Problem is that I don't always have my A game.  Phil 4: 11-13Philippians 4:11-13New International Version11 I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. 12 I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. 13 I can do all this through him who gives me strength.Easier said than done, I must confess.  You think you have this locked down...oh perfect one!  Have you been fully tested?  Raped?  Lost a child?  Then you haven't been fully tested.  You are not done until you are done with this broken planet.  Best check yourself before you wreck yourself.  You are not perfect.  Rom 3:23.  That's why you do need Jesus Christ, Rom 8:1.  And since we know that nobody is perfect then why on earth are you expecting perfection during events and human relationships?  Nobody in their right mind wants to be betrayed.  And nobody likes being let down.  Yet it happens.  To all of us to a degree.  So wouldn't we be wise to keep expectations in check.  Lord, I want Italy yet if you want me in Bangladesh.  So be it.  Lord, show me Rom 8:28 out of this unmet expecation.  That's ultimate Faith.  It's easy to declare Fatih if everything is perfect.  Show me someone that has endured hardship and still shines Faith and I say there is Power.  There is Light.  Matt 5:16.  Ending on a prayer note,

Yes!  You are in!  If you've been rocked with a loss, this one is for you.  If not you, then give it a listen and you'll know who could be strengthened by another Abundant Life story.  Meet Brother Gil.  Here you go...

Yes!  You are in!  Meet Beto, my back up brother.  Literally, he helps me back up the Overflowsshowers.org trailer into place at the Compassion Cafe at Abundant Life Church in Indio, CA.  Better yet, he shines Light.  Check out his story...here you go...

Yes!  You are in!  In for another treat!  James from Compton is back!  This time with his bride, Sister Cathy the Versed.  My nicknames for both of them by the way.  Terms of endearment.  What good can come out of Nazereth?  A LOT!  Compton?  A LOT!  An unlikely meeting in an unlikely gated community.  Reads like many Bible stories.  Least likely doing amazing things.  A story of hope for any of you feeling imprisoned (literally or figuratively).  Does this broken planet need more Hope or hopelessness?  More Hope coming up, here you go...

Yes!  You are in!  Meet John from Mecca, my brother from another mother and one of the most interesting people you'll find in the Coachella Valley of California.  Odds are that you dig money. Preface, I'm not a fan of the prosperity gospel.  It's clear that God doesn't give us everything you/I want.  Yet how much do you trust?  Can you out give God?  Maybe you believe and practice all what you are about to hear, yet would you back it like that Sunday School teacher did to John from Mecca?  Here you go...

Yes!  You are in!  Father's Day on the way or not past as you hear this.  Bottom line, odds are you had a sucky dad.  Even the best earthly dads are flawed.  Yet this isn't a downer message.  It is meant to be encouraging.  Here you go...Short and sweet on this one.  Bottom line, you do have a perfect Father.  Most of you get that.  Most you still need to be reminded of it.  The wisest of you also know him as Abba.  No, not the super Swedish band from the 70's.  Abba as in Daddy or one of the sweetest terms of endearment you can say in your relationship with the Heavenly Father.  

At times, my wife seems obsessed with Facebook Marketplace. Ok, she's not obsessed...normally. It is not her idol. She does love good deals. So in a way, I should be grateful for that. Better that then insisting on going to boujee shops on El Paseo. So one Sunday morning my wife is eyeing some CA beach prints. She already asked to stay home and stream church as she threw out her back. I was understanding. She has been walking like the hunchback of Notre Dame. It is best that she rests. Ok, sweet! A chilled laid back Sunday morning. Drinking my coffee and going to stream the 9AM of Southwest Church (Indian Wells).At about 8:50AM my wife approaches the living room and says, "Ok, don't be mad". That's like showing a T-bone steak to a dog and saying don't be hungry. She then proceeds to inform me that the woman with the beach prints needs to sell ASAP as she needs gas to drive to San Diego. Red flag one.

Yes!  You are in!  Do you get anxious?  Do you have a child that get anxious?  That is what we tackle in this episode.  Getting real and pursuing Truth.  Here is your Play of the Day...Interesting!  Things that make you go hmmmm.  We don't shy away from science or math on this podcast.  And we don't shy away from secular or even two atheists talking to point to a bigger picture.  BTW, that was the Daily Show, published on that 7th of May 2024, you can find the YouTube link in the episode description...https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tcr0yg7Mvg8&t=718sAs for Jonathan Haidt's book, I bought it.  That is called "The Anxious Generation" by Jonathan HaidtWhen I hear an atheist talking about Faith, you have my attention.  As for anxiety, and a parent of this generation, all my three kids were born after 1995.  I also coached and mentored their classmates.  I witness this tsunami of anxiety.  We parents would and can still be asking each other, what is going on?!  And if you were born after 1995 and listening to this, I hope this helps set you free.  You are not alone.  You have to deal with a wave of technology at a formidable age that none of us had to deal with. So let's tackle what works.  Less phone, screen time and social media works.   Exercise works!  Back up one episode to Deep Hikes.Faith works!  Listen to that Atheist.  He says it himself.  As perplexing it is for them, I am very grateful to Jonathan for not burying that Truth.  Why does Faith work?Hopeless or Hope, that is your choice.As I've said countless times now, I can't show you God, I can show you results.  Math and science above in full effect on the benefits of Faith.  Do not fear, 365 times in the Owners Manual.Tough times explained in the Owners Manual.Therapy works...especially a Christian therapist that combines the bestDon't be anxious formula is in the Owners Manual.  Phil 4: 6-8Philippians 4:6-8 NLTDon't worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God's peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus. And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise.Ending on a prayer note

Do you get away to pray?  Pray for more than an hour straight?  Deep Hike?  Or prayer walk?  Run?  The MonDudes are going through Matthew right now.  We read Matt 15 and Jesus getting away caught my eye.  When times get tough, how often do you get away to pray and reflect?  Get away as an adventure, whether that be in a boat or out into the desert, mountains, etc.?  Confession:  as for me, definitely not enough.  I'm better at SnapChat prayers (at least that's what I call them).  I'm in contact throughout the day in bite size pieces.  Lifting prayer requests and praises in the moment.  Very rare for me to go even an hour in prayer.  Even more rare to get away alone somewhere.  Yet on a Saturday in May, I was up early, very early with excitement to get on the trail to something called Bear Creek Oasis (La Quinta, CA).  Normally, I'm pumping tunes or podcasts through my headphones.  Not this round.  About 4+ hours of praying and listening and singing to God, Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit..  Yes, even singing out loud.  Not normally my vibe.  Fortunately, I was alone.The result.  One of my most rewarding hikes ever!  Physically, it was a tougher hike.  Oh and my first rattle snake encounter!  Safe and sound for both of us thanks be to God.  9.1 miles and about 1/2 of it a decent climb (about 2300 feet)...https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/bear-creek-oasis-trailSpiritually, one of the coolest things I've done.  4 hours allows you to lift a lot of people by name.  Think family and friends and all the Dude prayer requests.  Phil 4: 6-8 while in motion.  Eyes to see and ears to hear.  Surrounded by some of God's masterpieces of beauty.    Here are a few pictures and observations...https://www.fridudes.com/post/deep-hikes

Yes!  You are in!  As promised, more shares, testimonies and interviews.  ThursDudesPM Troy is back and telling his deeper story of hopeless to Hope.  Is that you?  Giving God thanks for this Dude and his courage to share and your willingness to listen.  Here you go...

As hate and cancellation roil over U.S. campuses, there are others that shine love and peace.  At the end of the day, isn't that what most of us hope for Peace and Love?  Respect, dignity?The Tale of Two Campuses.  In the Phoenix area of Arizona you can find two of America's largest campuses.  Arizona State University (145k+, around 80,000 across campuses) and Grand Canyon University (118k+, 25k+ on campus).Over the weekend of April 26-28 of 2024, one campus (Arizona State) was in turmoil. 72 arrests.  The other (GCU) in peace, no arrests.Source:  https://www.12news.com/article/news/local/valley/asu-pro-palestine-protest-timeline/At GCU, no hate raging.  In fact, peace and harmony during 5 graduation ceremonies and aptly playing during some of it, "Amazing Grace".

Yes!  You are in!  Confession, I've been dragging my heels on this one.  Why?  An atheist is back for the play of the day.  Yet, once again, it points to Biblical Truth.  Here you go...Bill Maher, two weeks in a row?!  The Pharisees and religious hypocrites are outraged.  Yet I greatly appreciate people who tackle tough subjects.  For your ratings can also be adversely affected as the masses don't like seeing the error of their ways.  Ways of the world.For those versed, you heard the beauty of that.  You have ears to hear and eyes to see.  And you are seeing some Truth reflected from perhaps a surprising voice. Ways of the world say love money, money, money!  Confession, I like getting paid.  I don't know many that don't.  Which unearths this timeless lesson, money is not evil.  It can be used for evil.  It can also be used to do a lot of good.  Just check out Overflowshowers.org and climbing to 1,000 showers of Hope and clean clothes, tackling homelessness.  Countless nonprofits using money to do major good.  Churches need money and many do amazing work.  There's a purpose for tithing.  A test to you and me from God.  Do we put money in front of God?  Confession, I have.  You?1 Timothy 6:6-7 New Living Translation (NLT)Yet true godliness with contentment is itself great wealth. After all, we brought nothing with us when we came into the world, and we can't take anything with us when we leave it.ShareRead 1 Timothy 61 Timothy 6:10 New Living Translation (NLT)For the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil. And some people, craving money, have wandered from the true faith and pierced themselves with many sorrows.Hey, I read that one out loud!  Newer listener, sometimes I'll just give you the verse reference for example Rom 3:23, Rom 8:1, Matt 22: 36-40.  Because I want you to get into the Word and read it with your own eyes.   Going full circle, Ways of the World says love money!  Look at me!  Look at what I got.  Most get jealous and covet.  The Bible is clear, don't get jealous, don't covent, don't love money.  Confession, easier said than done.

Yes!  You are in!  Ready to get uncomfortable.  I didn't think so.  This play of the day is a doozy.  I'll let it speak for itself and then we'll break it down.  Here you go...Whoa!  Dang!  Some of you are thinking, what are you doing playing an atheist on the play of the say.  First, not the first time we've had an atheist on as the play of the day.  Why?  If it points to the Truth.  We'll use it.  Think jiu jitsu.  If you are not sure what that is, then look it up.  Bottom line the enemy all the time twists what was meant for good and turns it to bad.  Or flat out will just use someone's bad where they should be good, think hypocrite and say, you see! 

Yes!  You are in!  I used to complain about the homeless.  What's wrong with them?  Why don't they get a job?  Do you wonder the same thing?  How did we get here?  Here you go...Greetings from Encino, CA.  That's where one of my daughters calls home.  About 15 miles away is Beverly Hills where my wife was getting some testing done at Cedars Sinai.  If you have ever been to L.A. then you'll see the homeless.  What used to be the home of glitz and fame has turned into the capital of homelessness.  It wasn't always like that.  Well, there has always been the poor and the rich.  Even Jesus says we will always have the poor.  See Matt 26:11.We didn't always have tents all over the place.  Despite that.  The California government has spent $17B in the last few years to solve homelessness.  $17B!  And it got worse.  How is that possible?  

Yes!  You are in!  The news is full of sucky news.  For we live on a broken planet.  So how do we possibly have Hope?  Here you go...

Yes!  You are in!  Work.  Most of us complain about it.  Yet very interesting play of the day.  The correlation of free time and depression.  Make sense, if you are living life and feel like you are not fulfilling a purpose, that can be depressing and empty.  Here's the good news.  You do have a purpose.  You are here for a reason.  Here you go...Thank you Pastor Rick Warren, a mainstay on our play of the days.  If you would like to hear more of that play, check out Daily Hope, that one is entitled "The Purpose of Work, Part 2", published on the 11th of March 2024.You have a purpose.  You do.  How do I know that?  Jer 29:11.  You don't believe that?  Well, that's on you.  Your choice.  For those that believe, that is an epic verse and promise.  A few years back, the FriDudes tackled a book called "Halftime" by Bob Shank.  Epic read.  Life changing for some of us.  Further back, we also read "Purpose Driven Life" by Rick Warren.  Yes, that Rick.  Game changing for some of us.  Why just some of us?  Your choice.  Your choice to read and your choice to implement.So game changing that we have a FriDudes named Greg.  He's been featured before.  He was so moved by especially Half Time that he created something that we call Gcrosssurf.org.  In the midst of a rebrand.  Things in the works.  Stay tuned.  Bottom line, Greg set out to better identify, goal/life plan/God's plan, write it down make it happen.  Identify strength and confess weaknesses.  Super bold.  Not for the faint of heart.  Back to the HalfTime book, tracked a bunch of guys that made a bunch of money.  In particular some Exxon retired execs.  Worked hard, retired, comfy, played, golf and on average died 10 years too early on average.  Many depressed, lost their purpose.  Their former jobs were their identity.  No longer needed.  Again, lost.  Some of you are now way, you are saying I never have to worry about money and I can be depressed and empty?  Yep, have you read David or King Solomon?  Then, yes!  Ever wonder why the rich and famous overdose and die...repeatedly?  There you go.  “Everything is meaningless,” says the Teacher, “completely meaningless!” What do people get for all their hard work under the sun? Generations come and generations go, but the earth never changes.Ecclesiastes 1:2-9 NLT - Bible.comHang in there.  Full circle.  Yet if you tune in.  Ask God why and keep pursuing, match your gifts into service and your heart will overflow...Jeremiah 29:11New International Version11 For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.Romans 8:28New International Version28 And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who[a] have been called according to his purpose.

Yes!  You are in!  Some of you are oh wow Bill!  And some of you are who's Bill?  Either way, you are going to be blessed.  Bill is one of my favorite teachers and speakers.  We believe the Lord led you here, to this message, here you go...Thank you Bill Bohline, what a gift!  Thank you Nancy and family, founding members and all contributors to the ongoing Hosanna story.  Sacrifices, yes.   What a legacy.  Wherever you are.  What is your legacy?  Why did God put you here?  Just like Bill.  It is your job to tune in and ask.  You are all not destined to be pastors of large churches.  I do believe you are destined to be a blessing to someone each day.  If you digged that one, have a question for Bill?  If there will be a part 2, what would you like to know?  Let us know at FriDudes.com.  Now go, love God, love others, Matt 22:  36-40.  Everything else you are trying to do correctly hangs on those two.  I love you.  Share love, be a blessing to someone today and each going forward...

Thank you Dr. Lorrits!  That is getting real and pursuing Truth.  How do you handle when things don't go your way?  Prayers not answered?  That is key part of the test of life and Faith.  If you would like to hear more of that play of the day, check out the Bryan Lorrits Podcast, that episode is entitled, "Jesus, Bread of Life...John 6", published on the 11th of March, 2024.What is blessed?  Perhaps you have everything perfect in your life right now.  How about that person who lost a child?  Or battling cancer?  Are they not blessed?  Before you answer that, for you that are versed in the Word, did the best go through the best or the worst?  Job, Moses, Abraham, Isaac, Joshua, Ruth, Joseph, David, Jesus, almost all his disciples.  They all went through brutal and unfairness. Show me a person going to church and treating God like a genie in a bottle and I'll say that's human.  Show me still going to church and praying and keeping the Faith despite hardship and unanswered prayers and I'll say that is a strong, true follower of Christ.  My wife has been battling cancer for years.  She could have stayed angry and asked why her.  She has only gotten closer to the Lord during her trials.  That is the test.  She inspires me. When tragedy strikes, there are those that will run from God...angry.  And there are those that get closer to God.  I can't blame the former.  For that is human.  You and I really don't know what we would do until we are in that situation.  You say no way.  And that reminds of someone, Peter.  Peter said no way.  Then he got tested and failed, 3x.  Check Matt 26.My wife has been tested many times.  And she has responded.  People that are closest to Lori yet maybe not the Lord, notice her Faith.  Her strength.  As for me, if you have listened long enough, you know my trials and tribulations.  Finances have been a wrestling match.  Once upon a time, money used to come easy.  Too easy.  Now, for about 15 years it has been a struggle.  Don't get me wrong.  There are others in worse situations.  I'm just trying to say vs. most of my peers, my path has been challenging.  Easy to pay bills when it flows strong. When it doesn't, ok Lord, what are you going to do in this struggle?  I look forward to Rom 8:28.  This is going to be solved one way or the other.  I'm still hoping to hit the jackpot and make it all right.  I keep working and digging for wells.  We'll see if Brother MikeC's words come true as he tells me to keep working/digging and I'll hit the wellspring.  If/when I do, I'll think I'll be more appreciative than the one that takes it for granted.  Perhaps that is part of the refinement.   What's your story?  Wrestling match?  Are you closer or further from God, let us know at FriDudes.comNow go, lift your struggles, know they are part of the test.  Know the best go through the worst.  Those going through the worst, loving God with all your heart, soul and mind is amazing.  For those going through better times, recognize the season and give thanks for what is worthy.  Love others.  Matt 22: 36-40.  Everything else you are trying to do or pray about hangs on those two.  I love you. Keep going.  Get stronger.  

Yes!  You are in!  Noe works his way to the play of the day and he talks about the dangers of the prosperity gospel.  Why do you get sick?  Tough times?  Here you go...Thank you Pastor Noe Garcia, you can find more of that play of the day at the NPHX podcast, entitled "Faith in the Storm" published on the 2nd of March 2024For the avid listeners, you know this.  Yet even the most avid listener needs reminders.  It is why we best keep going to the Word and memorize certain verses for certain situations.  Don't need to know all of it.  Best equip yourself with key pieces of armor along with the sword aka The Word.  Eph 6: 10-18Jesus makes it clear, you follow Him, you will have tough times.  You will have storms.  Matt 7:  24-27Not a follower of Jesus and still having tough times?  Rom 3:23We live on a broken planet.  This life is a test.  You will get experiences of heaven and hell.  Then you will choose where you want to go for eternity.  I view it that simply.  Your choice.  God gives us a choice.  While we are on this broken planet, we also have a choice.  Some choose Hope, some don't.  Some choose not to be anxious about anything, Phil 4: 6-7.  Some of us have to work at it harder.  Some of us choose to be content in all circumstances.  Not happy, big difference.  Content that we know there is a purpose for our pain.  Content knowing there is an amazing promise in Rom 8:28.  Confession, I don't like pain.  Yet the strongest people that I know have gone through the most pain.  Put that in your comfort pipe and smoke it and ponder for awhile.  You want to be weak or strong?Confession, 20 years of business ups and downs.  Pain on striving to keep up with bills.  Owing, paying taxes.  You can get the rest of that dirt in the summer of 2020 in this podcast series. At times, I question whether I should put a pause on all this?  I turned down an offer to be an elder for my church because of this.  Why do I struggle with this when it comes so easy to you?  I'm not sure, why do you struggle with ______________?  Rom 3:23.  So if you are a newer listener, please know I'm not perfect.  Don't even pretend to be.  I need this.  If/when this stops you'll know why...it will most likely either be that or death.  For now, I keep going.  Keep praying.  I fall down yet keep getting up to run, to finish the race.  Acts 20:24, 2 Tim 4:7, Gal 6:9.  I'll humbly ask for prayers there.  How can we best pray for you?  Let us know at the 'Contact Us' page at FriDudes.comNow, go, love God with all your heart, soul and mind.  Next, love others.  Everything else you are trying to do correctly, hangs on those two.  Matt 22: 36-40

Yes!  You are in!  Casey, CK is back!  The Jogging Jesus!  No, he's not Jesus, just looks like we may think Jesus looks like and loves Jesus more than most people that I know.  And this message is definitely Deeper into Truth.  Audio is a bit challenging in the beginning yet please stick with it.  An amazing ending of Hope...If you would like to see Casey for yourself...here is the actual video, yet you will feed Facebook to view...only option at this time...oh and a special thank you to Creative Love Church for giving our dear Brother Casey an opportunity to speak.  Quite amazing that a boy from Thief River Falls, MN, that could hardly read ends up becoming an engineer and now delivers this message without a PhD in Theology.  Anything is truly possible with God.https://www.facebook.com/creativelovechurch/videos/deeper-into-truth/695444576059077/