Pursuing God with Gene Appel

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Gene Appel is the senior pastor of Eastside Christian Church, a multi-site church based in Anaheim, California. Since 2008, Gene has led Eastside into multiple seasons of rapid growth and as a result, Eastside has been consistently named among the 100 fastest growing churches in America. Gene’s recipe for success is simple: Pursue God, Build Community, and Unleash Compassion. Eastside’s explosive growth is rooted in a deep conviction that God’s heart and God’s grace is for everyone, resulting in a radically inclusive community of God-conscious “servant leaders” who serve both locally and globally. Join Gene Monday - Friday as he walks you through practical biblical teachings that will foster a deeper connection and awareness of God’s activity and presence in your life. No matter where you are at with your walk with God, this podcast is for everyone.

Gene Appel


    • Sep 30, 2026 LATEST EPISODE
    • weekdays NEW EPISODES
    • 5m AVG DURATION
    • 1,401 EPISODES


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    Latest episodes from Pursuing God with Gene Appel

    Episode 1376: The Small Choices That Quietly Shape Your Future

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 30, 2026 4:00


    Most of our biggest regrets don't begin with one huge decision. They begin with small choices that don't seem all that important in the moment. In Proverbs 7, Solomon watches a young man make his way down a path without realizing where it's ultimately leading. Today we'll discover why wisdom looks beyond the next step to where that step will eventually take us. If you keep making the choices you're making today, where will they lead you tomorrow?Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

    Episode 1375: Good Intentions Aren't Enough to Get You Where You Want to Go

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 29, 2026 5:36


    We can sincerely want a strong marriage, healthy relationships, financial stability, or a deeper relationship with God and still be moving in the opposite direction. That's because direction, not intention, determines destination. Today we'll explore a simple principle from Proverbs that can help us recognize when we're drifting before we end up somewhere we never intended to go. In the areas that matter most to you, does your current direction match your desired destination?Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

    Episode 1374: How to Know If Your Life Is Headed in the Right Direction

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 28, 2026 3:38


    Nobody plans to get lost. It usually happens one turn at a time, and the same can be true in our relationships, habits, finances, and faith. As we begin a week of practical Life Hacks from Proverbs, we'll discover why wise people are willing to ask for directions and what Proverbs 3 teaches us about trusting God with the path ahead. You may know where you want to end up, but is the direction you're walking actually taking you there?Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

    Episode 1373: What Are You Really Depending on to Hold You Together?

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 25, 2026 6:00


    Money can disappear. Careers can change. Popularity fades. Even the people we love most can't promise they'll always be there. So what can actually hold us steady when life falls apart? As we conclude our week on being anchored, we'll look at powerful stories of faith through grief and loss and return to the promise of Hebrews 6:19. Storms will come, but we don't have to face them adrift. What are you depending on to be the anchor for your soul?Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

    Episode 1372: How to Trust God When the Storm Doesn't End

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 24, 2026 6:21


    It's easier to trust God when we can see things getting better. But what happens when the storm keeps going? Joseph spent years waiting without knowing how his story would end, and Job chose to trust God while still sitting in the middle of unimaginable loss. Today we'll discover why our hope isn't anchored in a quick resolution or a particular outcome. It's anchored in the presence of a God who remains with us through every storm.Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

    Episode 1371: What to Do When You Feel Forgotten

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 23, 2026 6:39


    Have you ever felt overlooked, passed over, or forgotten by someone you were counting on? Joseph finally saw what looked like a way out of prison, only to be forgotten for years by the very person who could have helped him. Today we'll explore what Joseph's story teaches us about remaining faithful when hope is delayed and nothing seems to be changing. Feeling forgotten doesn't mean your story has been forgotten by God.Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

    Episode 1370: When Doing the Right Thing Still Goes Wrong

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 22, 2026 7:10


    What happens when you choose integrity and things still don't work out? Joseph was betrayed by his own family, sold into slavery, falsely accused, and imprisoned for a crime he didn't commit, even after choosing to do what was right. Today we'll look at how Joseph remained faithful when life seemed deeply unfair and why trusting God doesn't always mean understanding what He's doing. How do you keep choosing what's right when it seems to cost you more than compromise would?Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

    Episode 1369: How to Stay Grounded When Life Feels Overwhelming

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 21, 2026 6:35


    Sometimes life brings storms we never planned for and aren't sure we can handle. A relationship falls apart. A career changes unexpectedly. A diagnosis comes out of nowhere. In Hebrews 6:19, we're given a powerful picture of hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. Today we'll explore what it means to make God our anchor when circumstances feel anything but steady. When the storms of life come, what are you trusting to hold you?Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

    Episode 1368: Stop Waiting for the Perfect Moment

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 18, 2026 5:21


    We can put so much pressure on ourselves to say the perfect thing that we end up saying nothing at all. When Nathanael questioned Philip about Jesus, Philip didn't launch into an argument. He simply said, "Come and see." Today we'll discover how God can use ordinary conversations, simple invitations, and small opportunities to make a difference in someone's life. You don't need to manufacture the perfect moment. You just need to notice the opportunities already in front of you.Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

    Episode 1367: You May Be Exactly Where You Are for a Reason

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 17, 2026 5:58


    What if your family, neighborhood, and workplace aren't just parts of your routine, but places where God has uniquely positioned you to make a difference? Andrew wasn't the most famous disciple, but he was Peter's brother, and he used that relationship to bring Peter to Jesus. Today we'll discover how God can use the relationships already around us and a simple BLESS rhythm to begin loving people intentionally. You don't have to reach everyone. Start with the people God has already placed in your life.Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

    Episode 1366: What If You've Been Hurt by the Church?

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 16, 2026 4:39


    Church hurt is real, and for some people, it becomes a reason to walk away from faith altogether. But the failures of imperfect people don't change who Jesus is. Today we'll look at the difference between introducing someone to a church and introducing them to Jesus. We can acknowledge the ways Christians and churches sometimes get it wrong while still pointing people toward the One who never changes.Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

    Episode 1365: You Don't Have to Know Everything to Share Your Faith

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 15, 2026 6:29


    We often think we need more knowledge, better answers, or stronger faith before we can talk to someone about Jesus. Andrew didn't wait. After meeting Jesus, the first thing he did was find his brother and tell him what he'd discovered. Today we'll see why sharing our faith doesn't require having everything figured out. Sometimes it simply means telling someone what you already know and trusting God with what happens next.Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

    Episode 1364: Are You Just Going to Church or Actually Following Jesus?

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 14, 2026 6:38


    Following Jesus was never meant to be something we simply show up for once a week. We're invited to participate in what God is doing in the world around us. Today we'll explore the difference between attending church and actually living on mission, and why a busy life can still leave us feeling empty when we're living for something too small. What if the purpose you're looking for is found in joining God in what He's already doing?Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

    Episode 1363: How to Make Wise Decisions When Life Is Uncertain

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 11, 2026 7:20


    None of us knows what tomorrow will bring. One moment life can feel completely secure, and the next everything can change. As we finish our short course in wisdom from Ecclesiastes 7, we'll discover two reasons Solomon says wisdom matters so much: it helps protect us from unnecessary pitfalls and gives us perspective when life doesn't go as planned. Whether you're in a season of plenty or facing something you never expected, God invites you to ask Him for the wisdom you need for whatever comes next.Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

    Episode 1362: How Impatience Can Sabotage What You're Building

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 10, 2026 6:49


    We want results quickly, answers now, and progress we can see. But some of the most important things in life simply can't be rushed. Solomon warns us that impatience and pride can cause us to force something before its time or walk away before the work is finished. Today we'll discover why patience is essential to finishing well and why we don't have to keep looking backward for the "good old days." Where might God be asking you to stay patient and keep going?Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

    Episode 1361: Why Integrity Is Always Worth It

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 9, 2026 5:55


    Cutting corners can sometimes look like the easier way forward, but Solomon learned that dishonesty eventually costs us more than we expect. Today we'll explore why integrity is always better than deception and why experience can teach us things we never understood at the beginning. You don't have to get everything right the first time, but you can choose honesty with whatever is right in front of you today.Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

    Episode 1360: Why Hard Seasons Can Teach Us the Most

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 8, 2026 6:39


    We'd probably choose a celebration over sorrow every time. But Solomon says some of life's deepest wisdom comes from the places we'd rather avoid. Today we'll explore why grief can clarify what really matters, how difficult experiences can deepen us, and why honest correction is more valuable than empty praise. The moments we would never choose may become some of our greatest teachers.Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

    Episode 1359: What Do You Wish You Knew Sooner?

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 7, 2026 7:17


    "If I only knew then what I know now." Most of us have said those words at some point. In Ecclesiastes 7, Solomon looks back on his own mistakes and shares wisdom he learned through years of experience. Today we'll begin a short course in wisdom by looking at two things Solomon says matter more than we might realize: the reputation we're building and the hope we're building our lives on. What are you learning today that you wish you'd understood years ago?Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

    Episode 1358: 3 Ways to Love People Who Are Hard to Love

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 4, 2026 5:29


    What does loving like Jesus actually look like in everyday life? It can start with something as practical as praying for someone who hurt you or listening to someone whose experiences and beliefs are different from your own. Today we'll discover simple ways to move toward people instead of away from them and return to the challenge of Micah 6:8: act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with God. Who could you choose to love differently today?Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

    Episode 1357: How to Love Someone Without Agreeing With Them

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 3, 2026 5:28


    Loving someone doesn't require agreeing with everything they believe. When Jesus told the story of the Good Samaritan, He deliberately made someone His audience despised the hero. In doing so, He challenged their assumptions about who deserved compassion and what it really means to be a neighbor. Today we'll explore how truth and grace can coexist and why our disposition toward people matters just as much as our position on an issue. Who is hardest for you to love right now?Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

    Episode 1356: What Loving Your Neighbor Actually Costs

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 2, 2026 5:48


    Compassion is easy when it doesn't cost us anything. But the Good Samaritan didn't simply notice someone hurting. He stopped, gave his time, spent his money, sacrificed his comfort, and cared for someone he had every cultural reason to avoid. Today we'll discover why loving our neighbor requires more than good intentions and what can happen when we're willing to be interrupted by someone else's need. Who might God be asking you to stop and notice?Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

    Episode 1355: Why Is It So Hard to Love People We Disagree With?

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 1, 2026 5:49


    It's easy to love people who think like us. The real challenge comes when Jesus asks us to love the people we'd rather avoid. In the story of the Good Samaritan, one man's simple question, "Who is my neighbor?" reveals how easily we create boundaries around who deserves our compassion. Today we'll discover how Jesus challenges those boundaries and invites us to examine the people we've decided are hardest to love. Who have you quietly given yourself permission not to love?Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

    Episode 1354: What Does It Really Mean to Love Like Jesus?

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 31, 2026 6:52


    Loving people sounds simple until we have to love someone who thinks, believes, or lives differently than we do. In Micah 6:8, we're given a powerful picture of what love in action looks like: act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with God. Today we'll explore why all three matter and what happens when we leave one of them out. Which part comes naturally to you, and which one might God be asking you to grow in?Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

    Episode 1353: Your Life Is Speaking Louder Than You Think

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 28, 2026 6:48


    People are paying attention to more than what we say. They're watching how we handle pressure, how we treat others, and whether our lives reflect what we say we believe. As we finish our time in 1 Peter 2, we'll discover why influence isn't about living perfectly. It's about consistently allowing our identity, our story, and our everyday choices to point people toward Jesus. Your life is already telling a story. What are the people around you seeing?Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

    Episode 1352: How to Be Bold Without Being Pushy

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 27, 2026 6:24


    Talking about faith doesn't require a sermon, and being bold doesn't mean being obnoxious. Sometimes one honest sentence is enough to open the door to a meaningful conversation. Today we'll discover how to share our faith briefly and boldly while also recognizing that our words need to be supported by the way we live. Following Jesus won't always be easy, but the struggles we face don't mean we're failing. They may be evidence that we're faithfully fighting a battle that matters.Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

    Episode 1351: How to Share Your Story When You Don't Have All the Answers

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 26, 2026 6:01


    You don't have to know everything about the Bible to tell someone what Jesus has done in your life. In John 9, a man who had been healed couldn't answer every theological question thrown at him, but he knew one thing: he had been blind, and now he could see. Today we'll discover how honesty, humility, and a simple personal story can have a greater impact than having all the right answers. Your story doesn't have to be dramatic. It just has to be true.Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

    Episode 1350: You Don't Need a Title to Make a Difference

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 25, 2026 6:02


    You don't need a platform, position, or special title to have an impact. In 1 Peter 2:9, we're called a chosen people and a royal priesthood, with direct access to God through Jesus and a purpose that extends into everyday life. Today we'll discover why your workplace, neighborhood, family, and friendships can become the very places where God uses you to influence others. Your mission field may be closer than you think.Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

    Episode 1349: The Secret to Living a Life That Influences Others

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 24, 2026 6:30


    We all want our lives to make a difference, but lasting influence doesn't begin with what we accomplish. It begins with knowing who we are. In 1 Peter 2, we're reminded that God has chosen us, set us apart, and called us out of darkness into His wonderful light. Today we'll discover why understanding our identity is the starting point for living with purpose and influencing the people around us. Before asking what you're supposed to do, do you know who God says you are?Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

    Episode 1348: Find Your Unique Way to Make a Difference

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 21, 2026 6:07


    You don't need someone else's personality, story, or gifts to make an impact. Throughout Scripture, we see people sharing Jesus through bold conversations, thoughtful answers, personal stories, relationships, invitations, and simple acts of service. Today we'll bring all six styles together and discover how to identify the approach that fits the way God made you. Someone in your life may need to experience Jesus in a way that only you can show them. The question is, will you use what God has already given you?Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

    Episode 1347: Your Personality Might Be Your Greatest Strength

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 20, 2026 6:08


    You don't have to be a preacher, debater, or outgoing personality to make a difference in someone's life. In Acts 9, Dorcas quietly served people in need, and God used her compassion to point others toward Jesus. Today we'll explore the service style of sharing faith and look back at all six approaches we've discovered this week. Instead of comparing yourself to someone else's strengths, what could happen if you started using the gifts God already gave you?Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

    Episode 1346: The Simplest Way to Share Your Faith

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 19, 2026 6:30


    What if sharing your faith could begin with the people already in your life? Today we'll explore the relational and invitational styles of sharing Jesus and discover why meaningful conversations don't require a perfect speech or a theology degree. Sometimes it looks like living out your faith authentically with someone you love. Other times, it's as simple as saying, "Come with me." Who has God already placed in your life that you could reach out to?Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

    Episode 1345: You Don't Need All the Answers to Share Your Faith

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 18, 2026 6:16


    Some people need honest answers before they're ready to consider faith. Others simply need to hear how Jesus has changed someone's life. Today we'll explore two very different ways of sharing faith: the intellectual style we see in Paul's conversations in Athens and the testimonial style of the man Jesus healed in John 9. Whether you're wired to wrestle with difficult questions or simply tell your own story, God can use what you already have. Which approach sounds more like you?Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

    Episode 1344: How to Share Your Faith Without Feeling Fake

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 17, 2026 7:05


    Sharing your faith can feel intimidating, especially when you think it requires becoming louder, bolder, or more outgoing than you really are. But what if God never intended you to copy someone else's approach? Today we'll discover why there isn't just one right way to share Jesus and explore the first of six different styles found throughout Scripture. God can use your personality, your story, and the way He uniquely wired you to reach someone no one else can.Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

    Episode 1343: How to Trust God When You Can't See What's Next

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 14, 2026 5:15


    Faith isn't just for life's biggest moments. It's how we take the next step when the path ahead isn't clear. As we conclude this special replay series, we'll reflect on the Israelites' journey and discover why living by faith, one moment at a time, gives us the courage to face uncertainty with hope. You may not know what tomorrow holds, but you can trust the One who does.Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

    Episode 1342: What Are You Holding On To?

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 13, 2026 5:24


    When life feels uncertain, we all cling to something for stability. The question is whether we're holding on to things that ultimately disappoint or to the God who never changes. Drawing from the Israelites' journey, today we'll explore what it means to cling to the Rock and realign our hearts with the One who remains faithful through every season of change. Where are you looking for security today?Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

    Episode 1341: The Secret to Finding Joy in Every Season

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 12, 2026 5:21


    When life doesn't go the way we expected, gratitude is often the first thing to disappear. Yet Scripture invites us to give thanks in every circumstance, not because every situation is good, but because God is present through it all. Today we'll discover how gratitude can transform our perspective, strengthen our faith, and help us find joy even in seasons of uncertainty. What would change if gratitude became your first response instead of your last?Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

    Episode 1340: Why Change Is So Hard (and How to Move Forward)

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 11, 2026 5:07


    Why do we resist change, even when we know it's good for us? It's easy to look back at the past through rose-colored glasses while fearing what lies ahead. Today we'll explore why change feels so difficult, what fuels our resistance, and how God helps us move forward instead of getting stuck. Could your next step begin with changing the way you see change?Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

    Episode 1339: Feeling Overwhelmed by Change? You're Not Alone.

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 10, 2026 4:48


    Big life changes can leave us feeling overwhelmed, anxious, and emotionally drained. Whether the change is expected or completely unexpected, even positive transitions can bring stress. As we begin this special replay series, we'll look at the Israelites' journey through the wilderness and discover timeless principles for navigating seasons of change with confidence, resilience, and God's presence. What if God is doing more through this season than you can see?Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

    Episode 1338: How to Keep Going When You Feel Like Giving Up

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 7, 2026 5:35


    Perseverance isn't about having endless strength. It's about holding on to hope when life feels uncertain. As we conclude this special replay series, we'll reflect on what it means to remain faithful through every season and trust the God who always keeps His promises. No matter what challenges you're facing today, hope is never out of reach. Will you keep trusting the One who is faithful to the end?Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

    Episode 1337: How to Thrive Even When Life Feels Limiting

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 6, 2026 4:59


    It's easy to focus on what's standing in our way. But Paul chose to focus on the opportunities that remained instead of the limitations he faced. Today we'll explore how faith helps us shift our perspective, maximize the opportunities God gives us, and continue making a difference no matter our circumstances. What opportunities might God be inviting you to see today?Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

    Episode 1336: When Life Doesn't Go According to Plan

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 5, 2026 5:02


    Few things are more frustrating than watching our carefully made plans fall apart. Paul arrived in Rome with a vision for ministry, only to find himself under house arrest. Yet God continued to work through circumstances Paul never expected. Today we'll discover why flexibility is an essential part of faith and how God often accomplishes His greatest work through interrupted plans. What if your detour is part of God's purpose?Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

    Episode 1335: The Four Stages of Spiritual Growth

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 4, 2026 5:25


    Spiritual growth rarely happens all at once. Just as Paul experienced seasons of vision, challenges, and transformation, we all grow through different stages on our journey of faith. Today we'll explore four common stages of spiritual development and discover how God uses each one to shape our character and prepare us for greater purpose. Where might God be growing you today?Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

    Episode 1334: Where Do You Find Hope When Life Feels Uncertain?

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 3, 2026 5:34


    Uncertainty has a way of shaking our confidence, disrupting our plans, and making us wonder what's next. But the story of Paul reminds us that hope isn't found in perfect circumstances. As we begin this special replay series, we'll explore how Paul's incredible transformation and unwavering faith can teach us to persevere with courage, even when the future feels unclear. Where are you placing your hope today?Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

    Episode 1333: The Question That Changes Everything

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 31, 2026 5:30


    We often live as though there will always be more time, but Scripture invites us to see each day as a gift. As we conclude this special replay series, we'll reflect on what matters most and why remembering the brevity of life helps us live with greater passion, purpose, and love. Every day is an opportunity to invest in what lasts. What will you choose to do with today?Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

    Episode 1332: Are You Chasing Success or What Really Matters?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 30, 2026 5:43


    It's possible to spend years climbing the ladder only to discover it was leaning against the wrong wall. Today we'll explore why busyness, achievement, and recognition aren't always signs of a meaningful life. Together we'll reflect on where we're investing our time and energy and ask whether we're pursuing lasting significance or simply staying busy. Are you running the race that truly matters?Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

    Episode 1331: Stop Waiting. Turn "Someday" Into Today.

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 29, 2026 6:14


    How many dreams, conversations, or acts of faith have been postponed for "someday"? Today we'll consider a simple but powerful prayer: "God, turn my someday into now." As we reflect on the brevity of life, we'll discover how recognizing the value of each moment inspires us to stop waiting and start living with greater faith, courage, and purpose. What if today became the day you stopped putting off what matters most?Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

    Episode 1330: What If You Knew Your Time Was Limited?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 28, 2026 5:42


    None of us knows how many days we have. While it's easy to assume there's always more time, Scripture reminds us that our days are numbered. Today we'll reflect on how embracing that truth can change the way we live, love, and pursue what matters most. Sometimes the awareness that life is short is exactly what awakens us to live with greater purpose. What would you do differently if you truly believed today mattered?Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

    Episode 1329: How to Live Life With More Passion and Purpose

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 27, 2026 4:52


    Life was never meant to be lived on autopilot. Yet it's easy to get stuck in routines, lose our sense of purpose, or simply go through the motions. As we begin this special replay series, we'll discover what Jesus meant when He promised life to the full and explore practical ways to live each day with greater passion, purpose, and intention. What would change if you truly embraced the life God created you to live?Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

    Episode 1328: Don't Wait to Start the Legacy You Want to Leave

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 24, 2026 6:19


    None of us knows how much time we have. That's why the best time to begin building a legacy of love is today. As we wrap up this week, we'll reflect on the urgency of living intentionally and choosing the kind of life we'll be remembered for. Every conversation, every act of kindness, and every expression of love matters more than we realize. What story are you writing with your life today?Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

    Episode 1327: Love Isn't Just Something You Feel. It's Something You Do.

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 23, 2026 4:56


    It's easy to talk about love, but living it is something entirely different. Today we'll explore Galatians 5:6 and discover why genuine faith always expresses itself through love. As we consider the relationships that matter most, we'll be challenged to move beyond good intentions and choose actions that leave a lasting impact. Love is more than a feeling. It's the legacy we live every day.Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

    Episode 1326: Why Love Is the Greatest Legacy You Can Leave

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 22, 2026 6:25


    Success fades. Accomplishments are eventually forgotten. But Scripture tells us that faith, hope, and love remain, and the greatest of these is love. Today we'll discover why love is the one legacy that continues to impact generations and how choosing to love others reflects the very heart of God. What kind of legacy are you building through the way you love?Pursuing God with Gene Appel is designed to help you pursue God, build community, and unleash compassion. Grounded in Scripture and shaped by Eastside's conviction that God's grace is for everyone, each episode invites you to discover God's presence and activity in your life.

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