Welcome to the weekly podcast for Hillside Assembly Church in Ripon WI
The Depth of Your Bench Big Idea: We cannot win spiritual battles aloneThe Battle is RealGod's Strategy Includes TeamworkWhen Leaders Get TiredGod Used the Team to Get the VictoryFamily Follow-Up QuestionsWhat's the Depth of Your Bench?Who Are Your Aaron & Hur?Ask honestly:Who can tell when I'm tired?Who helps me stay faithful when I'm weary?Who holds me up instead of judging me?Challenge: If you don't have them - you're not failing, but you are vulnerable.Community is Essential to VictoryIsolation feels strong - but it's actually dangerous.Truth: God never designed spiritual battles to be solo sports.Church isn't just a place to attend - it's a team to belong to. Serving Others Strengthens the Whole TeamSometimes you're Moses.Sometimes you're Joshua.Sometimes you're Aaron or Hur.Mature faith asks:“Whose arms can I help lift this week?”When you serve:Leaders last longerFaith stays strongerVictories multiply
Halftime Adjustments: Learning to Trust God in the WildernessComplaining Kills MomentumGod is Faithful to Provide - Again and AgainMake Spiritual Adjustments When NeededFamily Follow-up QuestionsAttitude Check (Complaining vs. Trust) Why do you think complaining feels so natural when life gets hard? How does complaining affect our attitude and the people around us? Can you think of a time when frustration started to replace faith in your life?
The Breakthrough Play: Crossing The Red SeaFear Makes Us Forget The WinStand Still When You Want To SprintGod's Play Won't Make Sense At FirstGod Makes A Way Where There Is No WayWhat God Opens, The Enemy Can't FollowFamily Follow-up QuestionsWhen the Israelites saw the Red Sea in front of them and the army behind them, they were afraid. What are some things that make us feel afraid today, and how can we trust God in those moments?God told the people to “move forward” before they saw the miracle. What might it look like for us to take a step of faith—even when we don't understand the plan?The Red Sea was impossible for the people, but not for God. Is there a “Red Sea moment” our family can pray about together and ask God to make a way?
Overcoming Opposition - Facing PharaohObedience Often Invites OppositionOpposition Reveals Who Is Really in ControlGod Uses Opposition to Strengthen FaithVictory Comes God's Way, Not Pharaoh'sFamily Follow-up QuestionsWhere do we see opposition in our lives right now? How does the story of Pharaoh help us remember that opposition doesn't mean God isn't at work?Why do you think obedience to God sometimes makes things harder before they get better? How can we encourage each other when following God feels difficult?How does God define victory differently than we often do? What would it look like for our family to trust God's game plan, even when the outcome isn't what we expected.
Draft DayGod Reveals the Game PlanMoses' Struggle With Being DraftedDrafted Doesn't Mean Ready, It Means ChosenWhat is Your Draft Day Response?Family Follow-up QuestionsMoses has a hard time believing God would choose him. Have you ever felt unqualified, nervous, or unsure about something God (or life) was asking you to do? What helped - or could help - you take the next step anyway?God told Moses, “ I will be with you,” instead of fixing all his fears. Why do you think God promises His presence more than easy answers? How does knowing God is with us change how we face challenges?Moses kept offering excuses, but God didn't replace him - He reassured him. What excuses do we sometimes use to avoid doing what we know is right? How can our family encourage one another when fear or doubt shows up?Being drafted doesn't mean being ready - it means being chosen. What might God be “drafting” someone in our family to do right now (serve, forgive, speak up, help someone, say yes)? What is one small step we can take this week?
Training CampGod uses yesterday to prepare us for today. Today is always preseason for tomorrow. God uses both the good and the bad.God redeems life before Christ.God blessed Moses in Midian.Family Follow-Up QuestionsLooking Back: Think about a season in your life that felt hard or unimportant at the time. How do you now see God using that season to prepare you for what came next?Learning from Moses: Moses had talent and opportunity, but he still needed training in Midian. What is one area of your life where God might be shaping your character, even if it feels small or slow?Trusting the Process: God often works behind the scenes. How can your family encourage one another to be faithful in the “hidden” or ordinary seasons of life?Putting It into Action: What is one small responsibility, task, or opportunity this week that feels like a “practice drill” for something bigger God wants to do in your life?
Do Your PartPray and Seek God's GuidanceTake the Steps You CanSeek Wise Counsel or MentorshipStay Consistent in Faith and ObedienceWrite it Down / Make a PlanSurround Yourself with SupportRemember What God has Already Done3 Things to Pray AboutWhere Does Our Church Go From HereNick & Mikayla Tonn Becoming Missionaries to JapanRobben Gitzel Becoming a Full-time Wellness Chaplin
Light for the OrdinaryGod's light meets us in our ordinary lives and turns them into extraordinary stories. God Chooses Ordinary PeopleThe Glory of God Breaks into the RoutineGood News for all PeopleFrom Ordinary Lives to Extraordinary WitnessesOrdinary Worship the Pleases GodFamily Discussion Questions:Where do you spend most of your “ordinary” time during the week? How might God want to meet you or work through you in that place?Why do you think God chose shepherds to hear the Christmas news first? What does that tell us about who God values?Can you think of a routine moment (school, work, chores, driving, meals) that could become a place of worship this week? What would that look like practically?The shepherds shared what they had seen and heard. Who is one person you could share something about Jesus with—simply from your own experience?The shepherds returned to the same life, but with changed hearts. What is one way you can respond differently this week because of what God is doing in you?
Light in Our DoubtsGod meets us in our faithfulness — even when we struggle to believe. (Luke 1:5–7)Doubt often rises when God interrupts our normal. (Luke 1:8–20)God's response: not punishment, but mercy with purpose. (Luke 1:19–22)God keeps His promises even while we're still learning to believe. (Luke 1:57–66)When we surrender our doubts, light breaks through. (Luke 1:67–80)Application: How God's Light Meets Our DoubtsGod meets us where we are. God invites our honest questions.God grows faith through waiting.God turns doubt into testimony.Family Discussion Questions:Where do you see doubt show up in your life right now? What situations, worries, or unanswered prayers feel like “shadowy places” for you?Why do you think God chose to meet Zechariah right in the middle of his struggle, not after he had everything figured out? How does that encourage you this week?Can you think of a time when God interrupted your normal routine to get your attention? How did you respond?God kept His promise to Zechariah even while he wrestled with unbelief. Where do you need to trust that God is still working—whether you feel strong or weak in faith?What is one practical way your family can “surrender doubt” this week?A prayer to pray…a step of obedience…a conversation to have…a fear to turn over to God.
Light in the WaitingThe Reality of DarknessGod Speaks Hope Before Anything ChangesGod Works Powerfully in the SilenceGod's Light Arrives Right on TimeJesus is the Light We NeedFamily Discussion QuestionsWhat is something you've had to wait for recently? (Christmas presents, a special event, a prayer you're hoping God answers, etc.) How did waiting make you feel?Where do you see “darkness” in the story of Christmas — or in life today? How does Jesus bring light into those places?Why do you think God sometimes makes us wait before we see His answer? (Helps us grow, teaches trust, He's preparing something better, etc.)Can you think of a time God helped you or answered a prayer at just the right moment? How did that remind you that God was with you even when you couldn't see Him working?Who in your family (or someone you know) might need a little “light” this week? What could we do as a family to encourage them? (Write a prayer, invite someone over, help with a need, etc.)
The Final Showdown (week 12) Family Follow-Up QuestionsWhat “surrounds” you right now? As a family, share one situation where you feel outnumbered, overwhelmed, or unsure what to do. Pray for each other by name.Where have you seen God's protection even when life felt out of control? Talk about a time when God was working behind the scenes in a way you didn't see at first.Elisha prayed, “Lord, open his eyes so that he may see.” What would it look like for God to open your family's eyes this week to His presence, protection, or direction?Doing the right thing doesn't exempt us from tough situations. How can we encourage each other to stay faithful even when life gets difficult?“Those who are with us are more than those who are with them.” What are some practical ways we can remind ourselves — and each other — of this truth when fear shows up?Elisha walked toward the problem, not away from it. Is there something your family needs to face with faith instead of fear this week?How can your family practice seeing God's “chariots of fire” — His provision, presence, and protection — in everyday moments?
Wreckage of Wayward Worship (week 11)Our Own Worst EnemyThe Fruit of Our WorshipNip it in the BudFamily Follow-Up Questions: What does it mean to “do what's right in your own eyes” in today's world?How can we tell if our worship is becoming more about comfort than obedience?What can we learn from Micah about what happens when we replace God with “good intentions”?How can we keep Jesus at the center of our home worship and priorities?
The Fall of the Lone Ranger (week 10)Riding Alone Will Get You KilledYou Can't Play with Fire and Expect Not to BurnEven When You're Down, God Ain't DoneFamily Follow Up QuestionsWhy do you think Samson liked to do things all by himself?Do we sometimes do that too? Why?What happens when we try to handle life without God or without friends to help us? How can we remind each other we're not alone?In the sermon we learned: "You can't play with fire and not get burned." What are some things that look harmless at first, but can lead to trouble if we aren't careful?Who are the people God put in your life to help you follow Him? Friends? Parents? Teachers? Church family?Samson made mistakes, but God gave him another chance. What does this tell us about God's love when we mess up?How can our family "stick together" spiritually this week? Idea: pray together / attend church I encourage each other I read a verse before school
From Barren to Breakthrough (week 9) Today's Big Idea: Even in the most barren and lawless times, God is still working behind the scenes to birth deliverance. What looks dead and hopeless can still give life when God steps in.God Plants Miracles in Barren PlacesBarrenness = shame, hopelessness, but God works there.God's miracles often start where human strength ends.Barrenness is not the end—it's God's beginning.God's Word Always Comes with PurposeGod never speaks without a plan.His Word gives direction and boundaries to protect the blessing.From Barrenness to BreakthroughFamily Discussion QuestionsSeeing God's Miracles in Unexpected Places: Can you think of a time when something good came out of a situation that seemed impossible or hopeless? How might God have been at work behind the scenes?God's Word Has a Purpose: The angel told Manoah's wife exactly what to do so God's plan would succeed. Are there areas in your life where following God's instructions might bring a breakthrough?Barren Seasons Can Produce Growth: When life feels “dry” or empty, what are some ways we can trust God is planting something new? How can our family encourage each other during these times?Looking for Breakthrough Together: What is one area in our family's life or in each of our personal lives where we need God to bring a breakthrough? How can we pray together about it this week?Faith Over Fear: The Israelites were living under fear and oppression, but God still had a plan. How can we choose faith instead of fear in difficult situations today?
Desperation, Deliverance, Deals & Devastation (week 8) Don't Sacrifice Your family At The Altar of MinistryDesperationDeliveranceDealsDevastation Family Follow-Up QuestionsDesperation: Can you think of a time when life felt really hard? How did it help you rely on God more?Deliverance: God sometimes uses unexpected people or situations to help us. Who in your life has been a surprising source of encouragement or help?Deals: How do you know when it's time to try to make peace or when it's time to take action? How can your family pray for wisdom in those situations?Devastation: Are there relationships or people in your life that need your attention and love? What is one way you can show care for your family this week?
Jonah (week 6) Jonah 1-4Is any outlaw or frontier town too lawless for God?God will always save the repentant outlaw.
Lawless: Outnumbered But Not Out Gunned (week 5)Big Idea: God doesn't need big numbers or strong people - He just needs willing hearts. God Shrinks the Odds to Show His PowerGod Prepares Us Before the BattleGod Wins Battles His Way Family Discussion Questions:What's a time when you felt outnumbered but saw God come through?Why do you think God sometimes lets our “army” shrink before the victory?How can we build our faith like Gideon did — before the battle even starts?Who can we encourage this week to remind them that God's power is greater than the odds?
Lawless: From Coward to Cowboy (week 4)The Sheriff Sees the Deputy You Could BeGod sees in you what you can't see in yourself.Questions Around The CampfireGod is patient with our questions.Breaking The MustangGod prepares us before he uses us. Family Discussion Questions:Why was Gideon hiding at the beginning of the story?What did God call Gideon — even before he believed it?What small thing do you think God might be asking you to do this week?How does it help to know God might be asking you to do this week?
Lawless: Bold Faith & Obedience Stand Out In Lawless Times (week 3)Big Idea: God calls both men and women to step up and serve, and He wins the battles we can't.God's Call to Deborah: God Calls Women to MinistryGod's Call to Barak: God Calls Men to MinistryMen and Women Are Called to Work and Minister Together Family Discussion Questions What made Deborah such a strong leader during a tough time?Why do you think Barak was afraid to go alone?Have you ever been scared to do something God asked you to do?What does it mean that “the battle belongs to the Lord”?How can men and women serve together in the church today
Lawless: The Left-handed Law Man (week 2)Big Idea: God's deliverance may not come how we expect — but it always comes on time.The Big Boss of MoabThe Unlikely Hero - EhudThe Showdown, Escape and Victory Family Discussion QuestionsWhat surprised you the most about the story of Ehud? (For younger kids: What part was the most exciting or unexpected?) Ehud wasn't a likely hero—but God still used him in a big way. Why do you think God chose someone left-handed?Have you ever felt like Ehud—different, overlooked, or not the “right” person for the job? (Parents: Share your own experience, too!) What does this story teach us about how God sees us?Can you remember the 4-part cycle the Israelites kept repeating? (Encourage kids to say them out loud: Rebellion → Retribution → Repentance → Restoration) Which part of the cycle do you think is the hardest for people today?What should we do when we feel stuck, like the Israelites did under King Eglon? How can we ask God for help in our own lives?Who is your King? Judges 21:25 reminds us that when there's no king, people do whatever they want. Why is it better to follow Jesus as our King instead of trying to lead ourselves?
Lawless: Welcome to the Wild West (week 1)The ProblemThe Cycle of Sin in JudgesGod's Deputies - JudgesThe Difference Jesus MakesOur Fight Today Family Discussion Questions Remembering God: The Israelites forgot God and kept repeating the same mistakes. What are some ways your family can remember God each day so you don't get stuck in the same “cycle of sin”?Being Deputies: Jesus calls us to be His deputies today. How can your family share what Jesus is doing in your lives with others this week? Choices Matter: Just like the peanut butter sandwich story, our choices can lead to the same results over and over. What are some choices your family can make this week that honor Jesus instead of just doing what seems right to you?
Storm Proof: Brave the Waves (week 5)W.A.V.E.S. WordsApproach Voices Expectations ShameB.R.A.V.E.BreatheRememberAskVisualizeElevate
Storm Proof: After the Storm (week 4)Storms don't cancel your calling.You may lose the ship but not your destiny and calling.What survives the storm is what matters most.How to Rebuild After the StormStop focusing on what you lost for a moment… Inventory what you still have.Rebuild on God's Word.Rebuild in God's Presence.Rebuild with God's People.Rebuild for God's Purpose
Storm Proof: When the Storm is Your Fault (week 3)Don't Be A Storm ChaserGod Uses Storms to Bring us Back, Not Destroy us.Repentance Redirects the Ship of Your LifeAre You Storm Chasing? - SurveyAre You Ignoring God's Voice?Are You Making Decisions in Anger or Pride?Are You Refusing to Forgive?Are You Making Unwise Financial Choices?Are You in a Toxic Relationship?Are You Neglecting Healthy Boundaries?Are You Deceiving Yourself?
Storm Proof: Finding God in the Chaos (week 2)The Storms Come Even When You're With JesusPanic Makes Us Question God's CareJesus Speaks Peace Before He Speaks CalmFaith Anchors Us In The Storm
Storm Proof: Built on the Rock (week 1)Isaiah 43:2 (NIV) "When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned."
Vision Sunday - Joshua 1Problem #1 - Spiritual and Practical Challenges for families in churchProblem #2 - Why kids are leaving the church as teenagersProblem #3 - The mainstream acceptance of false teachers in the church Changing the Culture at Hillside Launching Sunday, September 14This fall, we're embracing a new rhythm as a church—one that creates space for growth, deeper relationships, and spiritual renewal. We believe with the help of the Holy Spirit, we can take meaningful steps toward a healthier church culture.
Breaking Through Hurts, Habits, & Hangups - Week 21
Breaking Through Hurts, Habits, & Hangups — Week 20: Thankfulness
Breaking Through Hurts, Habits, & Hangups — Week 19: Backstop to Relapse
Breaking Through Hurts, Habits, & Hangups - Week 18: Breakthrough
Breaking Through Hurts, Habits, & Hangups - Week 17: Forgiving What We Can't Forget Part 3
Breaking Through Hurts, Habits, & Hangups - Week 16: Forgiving What You Can't Forget Part 2
Breaking Through Hurts, Habits, & Hangups - Week 15: Forgiving When You Can't Forget Part 1
Breaking Through Hurts, Habits, & Hangups - Week 14: Amends
Breaking Through Hurts, Habits, & Hangups - Week 13: Ready
Breaking Through Hurts, Habits, & Hangups - Week 12: Confess
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