The 5 Minute Discipleship Podcast

What does it mean to be bold? The dictionary defines the word bold as “a characteristic of confidence and courage.” I believe God is calling for you and me to live our faith out loud with confidence and courage. How else will the world around us know the difference Jesus has made in our lives?Main Points:1. Pastor and Author Craig Groeschel wrote, “Sometimes we function as ‘Christian Atheists.' We believe in God, we just live as though he does not exist.”2. We've been told by our culture that faith is a private matter, it's in appropriate and rude to share it with anyone else. This, of course, is Satan's strategy to intimidate believers into silence and ineffectiveness for Christ. If our enemy can cause us to be afraid of what others will think of us, we'll keep our voices quiet and our influence will be minimized.3. We cannot be ashamed, timid, or afraid. The gospel is the “good news” of Jesus Christ. God intends for us to live out our faith in a public way. We can do this in kind, gentle, and respectful ways and still have a bold testimony for Christ.Today's Scripture Verses:Proverbs 28:1 - “The wicked flee when no one pursues, But the righteous are bold as a lion.”Romans 1:16 - “For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes…”Luke 9:26 - “Whoever is ashamed of me and my words, the Son of Man will be ashamed of them when he comes in his glory and in the glory of the Father and of the holy angels.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

No matter what we have, we want more. I think you would agree, contentment is hard to find. Have you ever said, “I'll be happy when… I'll be content when…” Contentment is elusive. The more we have the more we want. We have an idea that when we arrive at a certain place, we'll finally be content, only to arrive and to still want more. Main Points:1. Today, you and I think of contentment as comfort, happiness, and satisfaction, but all of these things are based on our circumstances. Sometimes the circumstances of life don't leave us comfortable, happy, or satisfied.2. I love this definition. Contentment is realizing God has given you in your present circumstances everything you need to endure, grow closer to Him, and remain victorious in your relationship with Christ.  It is the ability to live steadily above changing circumstances through the power of Christ within you.3. The key to contentment is realizing that God has already given you, in your present circumstances, everything you need to have joy and fulfillment.Today's Scripture Verses:Philippians 4:11-13 - “…for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. 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. I can do all this through him who gives me strength.”Luke 12:15 - “A man's life does not consist of the abundance of things he has.”Matthew 6:33 – “seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

Unless the author of the Bible is  God, the scripture is simply a collection of ancient man's thoughts and ideas.  It might be uplifting and even inspiring, but we wouldn't consider it authoritative. Yet, if the author is truly God Almighty, then His words are as eternal as He is. His words are relevant for every generation. His words and life-changing are transformative.Main Points:1. There is a question today in our culture about the continued validity and relevance of the Bible. Many no longer consider the Scripture to be inspired by God.  They certainly do not regard it as holding any kind of authority over their beliefs or actions. 2. The relevance and authority of the Bible are still in place; in fact, they are eternal, because of its source, the very mouth of God.3. The Bible is the eternal, unchanging, always-relevant Word of God. Through its pages, we are introduced to the author. We come to know Him in a personal way, and we are transformed.Today's Scripture Verses:2 Timothy 3:16-17 - “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.”2 Peter 1:21 - “For prophecy never had its origin in the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

In a recent meeting, our church staff discussed our value of integrity. Here's how we state it: We require integrity to the Scripture, our families, our team members, and ourselves. What is integrity? The dictionary defines it as the quality of being honest and having strong moral principles. It is moral uprightness. Perhaps you have heard this definition. Integrity is who you are when no one else is looking.Main Points:1. There is a popular phrase in our society that says, “What I do in my private life is my business, and it has no effect on my public life.”  I think we all know this is not true.2. Integrity gives us credibility with others. As Christ-followers, we want to share an honest testimony with our words, but also with the life we live.3. We guard our integrity by protecting our hearts, by being faithful to our families, and by keeping our promises.Today's Scripture Verses:Proverbs 10:9 - “Whoever walks in integrity walks securely, but he who makes his ways crooked will be found out.”1 Chronicles 29:17 - “I know, my God, that you test the heart and are pleased with integrity.”Proverbs 11:3 - “The integrity of the upright guides them, but the unfaithful are destroyed by their duplicity.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

While we are thankful we have received such a great salvation, we may wonder if God can truly save anyone. We know people who are far from God. They have no interest in God or the things of God. Their hearts seem hardened, and they are not open to the gospel of Christ. Can God break through their darkness? Is the gospel for everyone?Main Points:1. Perhaps you have wondered if God could save you. Maybe you have thought you have sinned too much, gone too far, and are beyond saving. Possibly, you have thought God could save and forgive others, but you are a lost cause.2. The wonderful thing about God's grace is that it is for every sinner. That includes you and me. No one is beyond the reach of God's grace. The death of Jesus Christ on the cross paid the penalty for all of our sins, opening the door to a relationship with God.3. The word “gospel” means “good news.” Let's share this good news with everyone we can and let them know Jesus saves.Today's Scripture Verses:John 3:16—“For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in him shall not perish but have everlasting life.”Romans 10:13 - “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” John 3:15 - “everyone who believes may have eternal life in him.”Titus 2:11 - “For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people.”1 Timothy 1:15 - “Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners…”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

Out of His abundance, God will supply what we are lacking, if we ask. It's important to see that God doesn't just bestow wisdom upon us automatically. Not every walking around today is living in the wisdom of God.Main Points:1. It is this deep awe, reverence, and respect for God and His Word that leads us to pay attention to His Word. We begin to listen and to obey the Word. We value God's Word over our own thoughts and intuition. 2. The Lord says we should seek for God's wisdom, like a person seeking for a hidden treasure. If we do, we'll find it. God will bless us with His wisdom, knowledge, and understanding. 3. It's likely you are facing something today in which you need God's wisdom. Is there a decision to be made? Are you facing a family crisis, a challenge at work, or a choice about your future? Ask God to help you, as in the fear of the Lord. It's here that we become open to the wisdom of God.Today's Scripture Verses:“My son, if you accept my words and store up my commands within you, turning your ear to wisdom and applying your heart to understanding—indeed, if you call out for insight and cry aloud for understanding, and if you look for it as for silver and search for it as for hidden treasure, then you will understand the fear of the Lord and find the knowledge of God. For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.”Proverbs 1:7 - “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge.”James 1:5 - “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.”Quick Links:Subscribe to The 5 Minute Discipleship NewsletterDonate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

God's power is immeasurable. You can't calculate or quantify the power of God. It is beyond what we can see, know, and understand. God's power is without limit. When we pray, God can do more than we ask or imagine.Main Points:1. Most of us, in our moments of despair, have cried out to the Lord and asked, “God, can you meet my needs? Are you able to provide what I need?” Theologically, we know God can do anything. We know He has all power. We understand He is the creator of all things, yet, when our back is up against the wall, we question whether God can and will meet our needs. But as we read His Word, we learn of His power, His might, and His ability. In reality, the question is not “What can God do? But what can God not do?”2. There is no lack with God. God never runs out of resources. He is never in short supply of whatever we need. He is a God of abundance.3. Speak truth to your own soul. Stand upon the never-changing Word of God. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.Today's Scripture Verses:Ephesians 3:20 - “Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us…”Jeremiah 32:17 - “Sovereign Lord, you have made the heavens and the earth by your great power and outstretched arm. Nothing is too hard for you.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

God's desire is that we love Him above all else. We are to love Him with all of our hearts, all of our souls, all of our minds, and all of our strength. Only God can satisfy the deepest longings of our souls. Everything else we would turn to is an idol, something we run to instead of God. Yet, every time the idol leaves us empty. It produces regret, shame, and even fear.Main Points:1. We seek God first in our lives because He alone is worthy. We love Him above all things because He is Lord of all, and because He has loved us with an incomparable love. We refuse to have idols in our lives because none of them compares to God and what He can do for us.2. An idol can be a person or a relationship. An idol can be our work, our talents, or our career goals. An idol can be food or other substances we consume. An idol can be something we use to fill our time such as: tv, movies, and social media. As we see, idolatry really could be anything we turn to instead of God. 3. Idols are fake imitations of God. Let's search our hearts, ask for God's forgiveness, and relinquish any idols we may have worshipped. Let's give our allegiance to the one true God and remove modern-day idols.Today's Scripture Verses:Exodus 20:3 - “You shall have no other gods before me.”Proverbs 4:23 - “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.”Ezekiel 14:3 - “These men have set up idols in their hearts”Ezekiel 14:6 - “Therefore say to the people of Israel, ‘This is what the Sovereign Lord says: Repent! Turn from your idols and renounce all your detestable practices!”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

When we surrender our lives to the lordship and leadership of Jesus, in His sovereignty, he will open doors of opportunity. Sometimes, He will close doors. Surely, you have seen both in your life. In both cases, the issue is the surrender of our will to God. Will we let the Lord direct our steps? Main Points:1. When it comes to allowing God to guide our lives, the struggle is often the surrender of our own will. When God opens a door, will you, by faith, walk through it? When God closes a door, will you recognize it as one of the ways God protects and guides us? 2. We celebrate open doors. They are exciting. We praise God for making a way and leading us forward. While closed doors don't seem quite as exciting, we should thank God for them, because they are one of the ways he protects us and directs our steps. 3. Let's allow the God who sees and knows all things to take us where we need to go. When a door needs to be opened, God can open it. When a door needs to be closed, He can certainly do that as well. Let's trust His plan for our lives.Today's Scripture Verses:Revelation 3:7-8 - “What he opens no one can shut, and what he shuts no one can open. I know your deeds. See, I have placed before you an open door that no one can shut.”1 Corinthians 16:9 - “For a wide door for effective work has opened to me…”Colossians 4:3 - “Pray also for us, that God may open to us a door for the word…”Acts 16:6-7 - “Paul and his companions traveled throughout the region of Phrygia and Galatia, having been kept by the Holy Spirit from preaching the word in the province of Asia. When they came to the border of Mysia, they tried to enter Bithynia, but the Spirit of Jesus would not allow them to.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

There are many times the Bible informs us of conditional blessings. These are places in Scripture where God says, “If you will, then I will.”  We need to pay attention to the conditional blessings listed in Scripture because there are quite a few of them.Main Points:1. Sometimes, as a father, I bless my children simply because I love them. I do things for them, I surprise them, and I'm generous with them for no reason at all but that it gives me joy. I'm confident God does this, too.2. We should also pay attention to the conditional blessings of God. Be watching for where the Word of God says, “If you will, then I will.”3. Meditate on this truth today: The obedient life is a blessed life.Today's Scripture Verses:Proverbs 16:20 - “Whoever gives heed to instruction prospers, and blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord.”Deuteronomy 28:1-2 - “If you fully obey the Lord your God and carefully follow all his commands I give you today, the Lord your God will set you high above all the nations on earth. All these blessings will come on you and accompany you if you obey the Lord your God.”Psalm 1:1-3 - “Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers, but whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law day and night. That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither—whatever they do prospers.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

What wind and waves have caught your attention? What storm has caused you to look away from Jesus? Let's learn what Peter learned. We must keep our eyes on Jesus. As the howl of the wind gets louder, we'll be tempted to become distracted. As the waves crash higher, we'll be enticed to look away. Main Points:1. Jesus is teaching us here that we are to keep our eyes on Him. No matter how big the storm is, Jesus is sufficient to see us through. The storm did not overwhelm Peter and his fellow disciples. Why? Because Jesus was with them.2. Let's hear the words of our savior. “You of little faith, why did you doubt?” In our humanity, we experience doubt when our problems become bigger to us than God. We battle doubt because we don't always know what God will do. We don't know how we will face this storm.3. Don't forget, you are not facing this storm alone. The one who is greater than the storm is with you. He has promised to never leave you or forsake you. He will get you out of the storm, or he will get you through the storm. Either way, Jesus will be with you.Today's Scripture Verses:Matthew 14:26-33 - “When the disciples saw him walking on the lake, they were terrified. “It's a ghost,” they said, and cried out in fear. But Jesus immediately said to them: “Take courage! It is I. Don't be afraid.” “Lord, if it's you,” Peter replied, “tell me to come to you on the water.” “Come,” he said. Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus. But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, “Lord, save me!” Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. “You of little faith,” he said, “why did you doubt?” And when they climbed into the boat, the wind died down. Then those who were in the boat worshiped him, saying, “Truly you are the Son of God.” Hebrews 12:2 - “Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith…”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

We can choose to respond to adversity with fear, anxiety, and worry. We can also choose to respond with praise and worship. You might say, “Yes, but Loren, praise doesn't change my circumstances.” It might not, but it certainly will change what is happening inside of you. Main Points:1. As we praise, we confess what we know is true about God. We choose to trust and to believe, rather than to fear and despair. 2. Praise and worship are like nothing else. While God is the object of our praise, He, in turn, fills us with his presence. Praise and worship glorify and honor God, but it also lifts our spirits, give us joy, and remind us that God is present.3. Fight your battles with praise. As you do, the presence of God will encourage and uplift your soul.Today's Scripture Verses:Acts 16:22-24 - “The crowd joined in the attack against Paul and Silas, and the magistrates ordered them to be stripped and beaten with rods. After they had been severely flogged, they were thrown into prison, and the jailer was commanded to guard them carefully. When he received these orders, he put them in the inner cell and fastened their feet in the stocks.”Acts 16:25 - “About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them.”Romans 12:12 - “Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

The Bible clearly teaches salvation comes through Christ alone. There is no other path, no other way, and no other possibility. If you will be saved from your sins and forgiven by God, you will come through Christ, and Christ alone.Main Points:1. There are those today who don't like the fact that the Bible proclaims faith in Jesus as the only way to salvation. The exclusivity of Christ is a problem for them. Why can't there be many ways to be saved? Don't all roads lead to God? Why can't we pick and choose a path of salvation that seems to work best for us? 2. Instead of complaining about the lack of multiple ways to be saved, we should be grateful there is a way at all. If Christ had not come to be our savior, if He had not come to rescue us out of compassion and grace, we would be completely hopeless, with no way of salvation.3. We should willingly receive the gift of salvation, provided for us by Jesus. He is offering us a way of salvation. It is the only way to salvation. It is through Christ, and Christ alone.Today's Scripture Verses:“I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” (John 14:6)“There is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.” (Acts 4:12)“For there is one God and one mediator between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus, who gave himself as a ransom for all people.” (1 Timothy 2:5-6)Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

When describing a Christian who is passionate about their faith in Jesus, we might say they are “on fire for God.” We are saying they are fervent and zealous about their relationship with Jesus. It's likely you would agree that this intense and passionate pursuit of Jesus has to be maintained. We have to intentionally stoke the fire to keep it burning hot. If not, the fire will eventually burn out. A fire left alone will burn out. It's only a matter of time.Main Points:1. I want to challenge you today to not let your spiritual fire go out. Be intentional about keeping the flames of your faith burning. Pay attention to your spiritual life. If you ignore it, if you neglect it, the flames will go out.2. If there was a time in your life when your fire for God burned hotter than it does today, there is still hope. Put another log on your fire. Your fire and passion for God can be reignited. 3. This is a good day for all of us to check our spiritual thermometer. What is the temperature of our relationship with God?  Are we burning hot in our passion and zeal for the Lord? Today's Scripture Verses:Leviticus 6:12 - “The fire on the altar shall be kept burning on it; it shall not go out. The priest shall burn wood on it every morning…”Romans 12:11 - “Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord.”Matthew 22:37 - “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.”Revelation 2:5 - “Consider how far you have fallen! Repent and do the things you did at first.”2 Timothy 1:6 - “I remind you to fan into flames the spiritual gift God gave you.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

So, what motivates us to speak up, while the culture is trying to silence our voice? What enables us to push past our fear of offending someone to let them know what Jesus has done for us?  There is only one answer: it is our love for Jesus. We speak up because we love Jesus.Main Points:1. It's as simple as this: If we love Jesus, we will obey his command to make disciples. If we love Jesus, we will look for opportunities to tell others of His saving grace. We should not feel afraid or intimidated. We have been given the Holy Spirit for this very purpose, to empower us to be a witness.2. And remember, the gospel is good news. The truth that Jesus died for our sins and rose again is good news. That God would offer us grace, mercy, and forgiveness is good news. The promise of eternal life is good news. Why would we keep this good news from anyone?3. Our love for Jesus, must overcome our fear of offending people. Why do we assume they will be offended anyway? We don't know, but perhaps the Holy Spirit has been working in their heart and they are perfectly ready to hear the good news about Jesus. Today's Scripture Verses:Romans 10:14 - “How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them?”2 Corinthians 5:14-15 - “For Christ's love compels us, because we are convinced that one died for all, and therefore all died. And he died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again.”John 14:23 - “Anyone who loves me will obey my teaching.”1 Peter 3:15 - “Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

When it comes to the church. I believe unity is our foundation. The whole church stands or falls on the strength of this foundation.  As long as there are people, there will be a wide variety of opinions. That's okay. It's not essential to have a unity of opinion in every matter. What is crucial is that we have unity around mission, vision, and purpose. It's necessary that we have a strong biblical and doctrinal foundation. Main Points:1. When we have unity, we have bought into the mission and vision of the church. We are willing to forgo some personal preferences for the greater good. We trust God has spoken to our leadership, and we are willing to follow and serve. 2. When a church has strong unity, believers sincerely love one another. They protect each other and support one another. 3. We can sometimes unknowingly fall prey to the enemy's trap to sow seeds of disunity. When we complain, gossip, and talk behind another believer's back, we can drive a wedge in the unity of our church without even realizing it. Today's Scripture Verses:Romans 14:19 - “Let us, therefore, make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification.”Ephesians 4:3 - “Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

As Christians, we've been taught the importance of the Word of God. We have been instructed to read the Bible every day. We know the significance of spending time with God every day.  So, are there things we can do to develop a fresh love for the Word of God? Main Points:1. Start by praying a new prayer. Begin to ask God to give you a love for His Word. It's a simple prayer you can start praying each day. I believe God loves it when we pray such a prayer, and He will give us the desire of our hearts.2. When you open your Bible, believe that you will hear from God. The Bible is a living document. God wants to speak to your heart and life from its pages.3. Ask the Holy Spirit to open your spiritual eyes. Ask Him to illuminate the truth so that it is clearly seen. The Spirit of God is present every time you open your Bible.4. Look for the application. How can you put the scripture into practice in your daily life? Remember, the goal is not to get through Scripture. The goal is to get the scripture through you. Today's Scripture Verses:John 6:68 - “Simon Peter answered him, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.”Psalm 119:97 - “Oh, how I love your law! I meditate on it all day long.” Psalm 119:167 - “I obey your statutes, for I love them greatly.”Psalm 119:18  - “Open my eyes that I may see wonderful things in your law.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

Our financial health is not the only thing that requires an investment; our spiritual growth requires one too. No, not a financial investment, though God may ask that of us, an investment of time, effort, passion, and heart. God will ask for an investment of sacrifice, faithfulness, and commitment.  He will ask us to invest in the lives of others with love, support, and encouragement. God will speak to us about investing deeper into our own discipleship with Christ.Main Points:1. Let me ask you, “What investment are you making in your own spiritual growth?” Don't rush past this question. Take a minute and think about it. What investment are you making in your own spiritual growth? To get a return, you have to make an investment.2. Growth does not happen automatically. In fact, when something is not healthy, we often say it has “stunted growth,” meaning something is hindering and prohibiting healthy growth.3. What can you do today to begin investing in your spiritual growth? How can you begin pursuing a closer relationship with Jesus? What steps of faith can you take? Where do you need more investment?Today's Scripture Verses:Mark 10:28-31 - “Peter spoke up, “We have left everything to follow you!”  “Truly I tell you,” Jesus replied, “no one who has left home or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or fields for me and the gospel will fail to receive a hundred times as much in this present age: homes, brothers, sisters, mothers, children and fields—along with persecutions—and in the age to come eternal life. But many who are first will be last, and the last first.”Deuteronomy 4:29 - “But if from there you seek the Lord your God, you will find him if you seek him with all your heart and with all your soul.”James 4:8 - “Come close to God, and God will come close to you.”Psalm 37:4 - “Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

No matter where you are or how far away from God you have run, you can always come home.  Our loving Heavenly Father is waiting with open arms. He is calling once again for you to come home.Today's Scripture Verses:Luke 15:20 - “So he got up and went to his father. But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him.” “…Let's have a feast and celebrate. For this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found. (Vs 24)Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

As children of God, we desire the Lord's hand of guidance and protection to be upon our lives. Why? Because He can see what we cannot see. He knows what we do not know. He holds our purpose and our future in His hands.Main Points:1. I believe each day the Holy Spirit is active in our lives, too. He is speaking, leading, guiding, and directing. Are we listening? Are our ears open to the voice of the Holy Spirit? Are we sensitive to His promptings?2. Start your day by spending time with God. Then, as you go throughout your day, watch for the direction of the Holy Spirit. Ask Him to lead you. Ask Him to guide your steps. Trust that He is with you, walking step by step. 3. God is not absent, uninvolved, and uninterested in your life. He is an ever-present God.Today's Scripture Verses:Psalm 37:23-24 - “The Lord directs the steps of the godly. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand.”Proverbs 16:9 - “A man's heart plans his way, But the Lord directs his steps.”Proverbs 27:1 - “…you don't know what the day will bring.”Romans 8:14 - “For all who are led by the Spirit of God are children of God.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

When you love Jesus, it makes you different. You are not the same. There will be a noticeable difference in how you live and what you live for. In Christianity, some of the words we use to describe this new life are changed, transformed, converted, and born again.Main Points:1. We are still in the world, but we are not of the world. We live by different values. We have different ambitions. We have been given a new purpose in life. What we love has changed. We have exchanged old passions and desires for new ones.2. Prior to placing our faith in Jesus, we loved the world. We loved what the world could offer us because it was all we knew. Now, we no longer love the world because we have discovered something superior. We have experienced the love of God that is satisfying and meets our inmost desires.3. We are to bear the likeness or the imprint of God. People should recognize that we belong to Christ because we bear His image. The life we live is to be a reflection of the values, character, and lifestyle of Christ.Today's Scripture Verses:1 John 2:15-17 - “Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them. For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world. The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever.”Ephesians 4:24 - “…to put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

As Christians, the Bible describes us as children of God. As children, we are learning how to walk in Christ. We sometimes stumble and fall. God, with his grace and mercy, is patient and helps us get up and get going again. Yet, sometimes other believers aren't as gracious.Main Points:1. Sadly, sometimes the fallen are shunned, excluded, and looked down upon. Sometimes the fallen Christian is gossiped about and criticized.2 The fallen one needs restoration. The goal is always to restore the believer who has been overcome by sin. They are not to be ignored. They are not to be excused. They are not to be destroyed. The goal is always restoration. 3. If you know a fellow believer who is struggling or who has fallen. With gentleness and humility, reach out to them in an effort to restore them to the faith and the path of righteousness. While you are doing so, remember that any of us is capable of falling.Today's Scripture Verses:Galatians 6:1 - “Dear brothers and sisters, if another believer is overcome by some sin, you who are godly should gently and humbly help that person back onto the right path. And be careful not to fall into the same temptation yourself.”Galatians 6:2 - "Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.”John 13-34-45 - “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

I talk to a lot of Christians who are unsatisfied with their prayer life. They even feel guilty, knowing prayer should be a more consistent part of their Christian life. But sometimes, it feels difficult to get going again. It seems hard to restart your prayer life. Here are some things that will help.Main Points:1. First, ask God to give you a renewed passion for his presence. It's a prayer God will answer because He wants to spend time with you, too.2. Second, decide on a place and a time. Set a reminder on your phone. This is half the battle.3. Third, use a prayer journal/list to help you stay on track. Each morning, I use the 5-minute discipleship journal to walk through my time with God. The journal provides a simple strategy for engaging with God in His Word and prayer. I really enjoy using the “Pray First” App that was designed by the Church of the Highlands.4. Finally, recognize that prayer is your lifeline. Everything we need, God can provide. Today's Scripture Verses:Acts 3:1 - “One day Peter and John were going up to the temple at the time of prayer—at three in the afternoon.”Mark 11:24 - “Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.”1 Thessalonians 5:17 - “pray continually”Colossians 4:2 - “devote yourselves to prayer”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

Do you have a dream? Do you have a God-given dream? Is there something God has put into your heart to do, accomplish, and fulfill? Does the dream stay with you and never seem to leave? Is there something God is calling you to do? Main Points:1. Maybe you need a little encouragement. What God has called you to do, you need to do it. Do it now. Don't put it off. Don't say someday. Someday may not come, but you do have today. What action step can you take today?2. We take time for granted. We live as if our time is unlimited, but we know deep down inside that it is not true. We only have a limited amount of time, and we don't know how much. 3. We always have plenty of time to do everything we need to do. This means that all of my time belongs to God, and therefore, how I spend my days is a sacred issue. Someday I will answer for what I did today.Today's Scripture Verses:Ecclesiastes 3:1-4 - "There is a time for everything, And a season for every activity under heaven: A time to be born and a time to die, A time to plant and a time to uproot, A time to kill and a time to heal, A time to tear down and a time to build, A time to weep and a time to laugh, A time to mourn and a time to dance."Proverbs 27:1 - “Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring.”James 4:13-15 - “ Look here, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we are going to a certain town and will stay there a year. We will do business there and make a profit.” How do you know what your life will be like tomorrow? Your life is like the morning fog—it's here a little while, then it's gone. What you ought to say is, “If the Lord wants us to, we will live and do this or that.”Ecclesiastes 9:10 – “Whatever you do, do well. For when you go to the grave, there will be no work or planning or knowledge or wisdom.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

Our problem is not that we don't have enough time.  The problem is that we don't always use our time wisely.  We all have the same amount of time. When it comes to time, every single one of us has the exact same amount.  We all get 168 hours each week.  The good news is the Bible has a lot to say about how we can honor God with our time.  The Bible teaches us how to manage our time in a way that pleases God.Main Points:1. I have learned it's important to do a time audit. Ask yourself, “How am I spending my time? Am I being wise with the use of my time? Am I losing time somewhere? Am I wasting time? It's good to analyze where our time is being spent.2. Then ask yourself the question… “Is this really how I want to spend my life?  Remember, your time is your life.”  God is only giving you so much.  How are you going to use it?  3. Time is a gift.  Your life is a gift.  You and I are managers of the time God has given us.  Will you and I choose to use the most valuable resource God has given us for his glory and for his purpose?Today's Scripture Verses:Psalm 31:14-15 - “But I trust in you, O Lord; I say, “You are my God.” My times are in your hand…”Ephesians 5:15-16 - “Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity…”Haggai 1:7 – “This is what the Lord Almighty says: “Give careful thought to your ways.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

As we serve the Lord in our various ministries, patience is required. Like a farmer, we till the soil, we plant the seed, and we water the seed. We get excited when we see a little shoot begin to appear. Yet, we must wait for the harvest.Main Points:1. Let me remind you of an important principle about the work of God: The harvest belongs to God. You and I have no power over the harvest. We are called to serve, love, work, obey, and use our gifts, talents, and time for God. He is the one who makes things grow. He is the one who produces the fruit.2. We are responsible for our own obedience to God. We must do what he asks us to do, but then leave the results to Him. Only the Holy Spirit can produce growth. 3. So, if you are serving God, if you are working hard, if you have been obedient, and the results still haven't come, it may be a matter of waiting on the right time and the right season. Be patient and remember the harvest is in God's hands. Today's Scripture Verses:1 Corinthians 3:6-8 - “I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God has been making it grow. So neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow. The one who plants and the one who waters have one purpose, and they will each be rewarded according to their own labor.”Galatians 6:9 - “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

We need to recognize that God knows about our anxiety. He is with us, and He cares about how we feel. What can we do with our anxiety? The answer is to fight back. Anxiety is a form of fear. Main Points:1. Anxiety by other names: worry, apprehension, nervousness, concern, and fear. Questions anxiety asks: What will happen? Will they think? Will I be accepted? Will I be okay? What if I look foolish? What does the future hold?2. In Philippians 4:6-7, Paul is saying that when you take your burdens, your concerns, and even your anxious thoughts to the Lord, he replaces your worries with something much greater: peace that transcends human understanding. And he says this peace of God will guard your heart and mind.3. What is it that is causing you to be anxious? Can you trust Jesus with it?Today's Scripture Verses:“Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts.” (Psalm 139:23)“For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” (2 Timothy 1:7)“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:6-7)“Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life…” (Luke 12:22)Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

The most important question you will ever answer for yourself is: “Who is Jesus?” The question swirled on the streets of Galilee and Jerusalem. In the marketplace, in neighborhoods, and out in the fields, people were talking about Jesus. Who is this man, and why has he come? After 2,000 years, the questions are still being asked.Main Points:1. Once we understand who Jesus is, we begin to understand why He came.2. He didn't come to be a great humanitarian, teacher, rabbi, philosopher, miracle worker, or revolutionary. He didn't come to start an earthly kingdom or to overthrow the rule of the Roman Empire.3. Jesus came to save sinners. This is good news for you and me because we are sinners in need of a savior.Today's Scripture Verses:Matthew 16:13-16 - “When Jesus came to the region of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, “Who do people say the Son of Man is?” They replied, “Some say John the Baptist; others say Elijah; and still others, Jeremiah or one of the prophets.”  “But what about you?” he asked. “Who do you say I am?”  Simon Peter answered, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.”1 Timothy 1:15 - “Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners…”Luke 19;10 - “For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

Today, it seems as if maybe we have forgotten our mission. Those who follow Christ, those who have been saved and forgiven, have received a mission from their savior. We are told to “go and make disciples.” Have we forgotten this is our calling? Have we forgotten this is our individual responsibility?Main Points:1. We have come to believe the church is something we attend, not something we are, but this is not how Christ framed his network of followers in the New Testament.2. Obedience to Christ's command to make disciples is fulfilled not through church programs, but as individuals invest their lives in others. It's people who reach people for Christ. We spend time with them to help them grow and become disciples, who would then make other disciples.3. Jesus said we are to “make disciples.” This means we must take the initiative to do something. We must speak up. We must invest our lives in building relationships with those who don't know Jesus. We must give our time to share Christ and to help them grow into disciples.Today's Scripture Verses:Matthew 28:19-20 - “Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”Acts 1:8 - "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you, and you will be My witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth."Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

The condition of your heart determines the direction of your life.  This is the consistent teaching of the Scriptures – as our hearts go, so do our actions.Main Points:1. Satan uses all kinds of weapons to attack our hearts.  For me, these attacks often come in the form of circumstance that leads to disappointment, discouragement, or even disillusionment.  2. Solomon's words are a warning. He says we are to “guard.”  He implies you are living in a combat zone.  You don't have to guard something unless it is under attack.  You don't guard and protect something unless it is in danger.3. In prayer, do a heart check. Is your heart healthy? Are you healthy spiritually? Spiritual vitality is found in a close relationship with Jesus Christ.Today's Scripture Verses:Proverbs 4:23 - “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” Proverbs 17:19 - “As water reflects the face, so one's life reflects the heart.”Luke 6:45 - “A good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and an evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of.”Proverbs 4:20-22 – “My son, pay attention to what I say; turn your ear to my words.  Do not let them out of your sight, keep them within your heart; for they are life to those who find them and health to one's whole body.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

We learn from the Book of James that we cannot blame God for our temptations. So, where do they come from? He answers that question. We are tempted by our own evil desires. We are tempted to sin because we have a sinful nature.Main Points:1. All of us face temptations. There has never been a person alive who didn't face temptation. The Bible says that even Jesus was tempted, but was without sin. This brings up a good question: where do our temptations come from? Is the devil tempting me, or is God tempting me?2. We cannot blame God for our temptations. God cannot be tempted, and he doesn't tempt anyone else. God is holy, and he doesn't want us to fail or fall. The truth of it is that temptation resides deep in who we are.3. While we recognize that we have a sinful nature, we are not powerless in our temptations. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, we can resist temptation and live in a way that honors God.Today's Scripture Verses:James 1:13-15 - "When tempted, no one should say, 'God is tempting me.' For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone; but each one is tempted when, by his own evil desire, he is dragged away and enticed.  Then, after sin has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death.”Psalm 51:5 - “For I was born a sinner— yes, from the moment my mother conceived me.”Romans 5:12 - “When Adam sinned, sin entered the world. Adam's sin brought death, so death spread to everyone, for everyone sinned.”1 Corinthians 10:13 - “The temptations in your life are no different from what others experience. And God is faithful. He will not allow the temptation to be more than you can stand. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you can endure.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

All through the Scripture, we see that our God is a God of comfort! The comfort of God is available to us when we are experiencing different kinds of loss and grief.Main Points:1. It's okay to grieve. It's okay to mourn. God created us with the ability to express these emotions. I've ministered to Christians who felt they weren't supposed to mourn or that if they were grieving, they were failing God. It's okay to grieve. It's okay to weep. God wants you to experience his comfort during your time of mourning.2. I have found that God draws especially close to me in the tough times of life.  When my heart is breaking, I find God's presence near me.3. If you are mourning, if you are grieving, lean into Jesus. Press into him through prayer and worship. Meditate on the Word of God. Reach out to a friend who can join you in your mourning.  At this moment, I believe you'll experience the blessing of God's comfort.Today's Scripture Verses:Matthew 5:4 - “Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.”Psalm 23:4 - “Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.”Psalm 119:50 - “My comfort in my suffering is this: Your promise preserves my life.”Psalm 34:18 - “The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

There is no place to stop, plateau, or think we have arrived in our spiritual lives. We are never to stop growing. There is always more we can learn, more we can experience, more steps of faith to take, and more character to be developed.Main Points:1. Like an adopted child learns the behaviors and expectations of their new family. We are to learn the values, behavior, and lifestyle of the family of God. Let's commit, as did the Apostle Paul, to keep pressing forward in our goal of being like Jesus.2. Even the great Apostle Paul realized that he needed to keep growing in his faith and his relationship with God.3. By placing our faith in Jesus Christ and his death on the cross for us, we have been adopted by the Holy Spirit into the family of God. It is a gift we receive. We did not have to work to earn the right to become a part of God's family. But now that we are sons and daughters, God asks us to live like children of God. The Word of God and the power of the Holy Spirit inform our new behavior and our new lifestyle.Today's Scripture Verses:Philippians 3:12 - “Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me.”Philippians 3:13-14 - “…one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

The Bible uses the metaphor of a marathon to illustrate the perseverance of the Christian life. It's a picture we can understand. Today, you and I are still in our race. We are on a journey of serving Jesus. We have not finished it yet. We must keep going until we reach the end.Main Points:1. Let me encourage you today. Don't let anything stop you from running this race. Don't let anything trip you up or hinder you from reaching the finish line. 2. You and I can persevere to the end. We can finish the race God has given us. We can be faithful and live for Jesus until the end of our lives. We know this is possible because God has given us everything we need for a godly life.3. Sometimes the race gets so hard that you aren't sure if you can make it. Yet, we are encouraged by this truth that if others have persevered to the end, so can we. Today's Scripture Verses:Hebrews 12:1-2 - “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.”2 Peter 1:3 - “His divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness.”James 1:12 - “Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

Our personal suffering can increase our personal testimony for Christ. Our hard times can elevate our witness. Our difficulties can give us a larger and more receptive audience to whom we can influence for Christ.Main Points:1. Suffering, as a tool for advancing the gospel? No, I think I'll pass. Yet, over and over again in Scripture, we see God redeeming suffering for His kingdom purposes.2. Paul's freedom and mobility were restricted; it was not a situation he would have chosen for himself. Yet, as he writes to the Philippians, Paul recognizes that his house arrest has actually advanced the gospel of Jesus Christ. He was allowed to have visitors to whom Paul boldly taught about Jesus.3. These examples reveal God's kingdom purposes being accomplished through suffering. While none of us want to go through hard times, we ask that God would use them for His glory. We ask that He would make our witness clear and bold for Christ. We ask that others would see our love for Jesus and that our suffering would present opportunities for people to hear the gospel message.   Today's Scripture Verses:Philippians 1:12 - “Now I want you to know, brothers and sisters, that what has happened to me has actually served to advance the gospel.”Acts 28:30-31 - “For two whole years Paul stayed there in his own rented house and welcomed all who came to see him. He proclaimed the kingdom of God and taught about the Lord Jesus Christ—with all boldness and without hindrance!”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

We have an adversary, an enemy. He is the devil who wants to attack our faith, bring confusion and discouragement, and cause us to falter in our relationship with God. He doesn't want us to be strong spiritually. He wants to do everything he can to hinder the spiritual growth of our families. He wants us to be ineffective in our work for the Lord.Main Points:1. It's my experience that most Christians go throughout their day without much thought of spiritual warfare. I don't believe we should expect a devil to be living under every rock, but the Bible is clear that you and I, as believers, are in a spiritual battle.2. I'm guessing that everyone listening to this episode prays for God's protection. I do too. Maybe in the mornings and evenings, you pray that God would watch over your family, protect them from harm, and keep them safe. We are praying for the physical protection of those we love. I certainly believe in God's power to shield us from harm. 3. But while you pray for physical protection, do you also pray for spiritual protection? Today's Scripture Verses:Ephesians 6:12 - “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.”Ephesians 6:10-11 - “be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes.”Ephesians 6:18 - “And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord's people.”But while you pray for physical protection, do you also pray for spiritual protection? This is what the Apostle Paul is referring to in these verses. Why pray for spiritual protection? 1 Peter 5:8 - “Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

We are being transformed, not just improved, not just reformed. The scripture says we are being transformed. We are being made new. We are being transformed into his image. In lifestyle and character, we are to be in the image of Jesus. This is why Ephesians 5:1 says we are to “imitate God in everything we do because we are his dear children.”Main Points:1. Without realizing it, every day, we who believe in Jesus are leaving an impression of Him on others. Not with brushes and paint, but with attitudes, actions, and relationships.2. All of us are being transformed. We are not yet complete. We are not like Jesus in every area of our lives. We are in process. We are not who we used to be, and we are not yet who we are going to be.3. If we want to be like Jesus, we must spend time with Him. How else can we discover what He is like? In what other way could we learn his character? There is no other way.  Today's Scripture Verses:Ephesians 5:1-2 - “Imitate God, therefore, in everything you do, because you are his dear children. Live a life filled with love, following the example of Christ. He loved us and offered himself as a sacrifice for us, a pleasing aroma to God.” 2 Corinthians 3:18 - “We all . . . are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.”John 15:4 - “Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in Me.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

I hope you'll see this truth today. God cares about your emotional state. We've often been taught to hide our emotions. I know that I struggle to express my emotions in public. We've been taught to stifle them. Be strong. Don't let anyone see what is going on inside. But God cares about our emotions.Main Points:1. Throughout Scripture, we see men and women feeling and expressing emotion, but nowhere do we see it more than in the book of Psalms.  David and the other Psalm writers openly bare their soul and their inner lives. We get to see what's happening on the inside, not just on the outside.2. Did you know that God also feels emotion? We feel emotion because God feels emotion. Genesis tells us we were created in the image of God.3. Not only can God bring healing to our physical bodies, but He can also bring healing to our mental and emotional state. God cares about our whole being. Today's Scripture Verses:Psalm 77:1-4 - “I cried out to God for help; I cried out to God to hear me. When I was in distress, I sought the Lord; at night I stretched out untiring hands, and I would not be comforted. I remembered you, God, and I groaned; I meditated, and my spirit grew faint. You kept my eyes from closing; I was too troubled to speak.”Psalm 13:1-2 - “How long, Lord? Will you forget me forever? How long will you hide your face from me? How long must I wrestle with my thoughts and day after day have sorrow in my heart?”Ephesians 3:16 - “I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being…”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

Our relationship with Jesus is the source of strength, wisdom, patience, and power we need to serve God, help others, and meet the challenges of today. Main Points:1. In myself, I recognize my limitations. I am not talented enough, smart enough, creative enough, and I am certainly not strong enough to be what God wants me to be. But I have to recognize that God is not asking me to be all those by myself. He promised that he would be my provider. He would give me everything I need.2. In every situation, God has given us everything we need to serve and honor Him.3. The enemy of your soul wants you to believe that you can never be who God desires you to be. Hear this truth: the devil is a liar. Combat his lies with the truth of God's Word. Remember, God's divine power gives us everything we need for a godly life through our relationship with Him. Today's Scripture Verses:2 Peter 1:3 - “His divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness.”John 15:5 - “He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing.”Romans 8:37 - “in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

I imagine David, hiding in the back of a cave, writing by candlelight. He's thinking about days gone by. He remembers times when he was worshipping with God's people. He's longing for the house of God. He is remembering the blessing of experiencing the presence and power of God, and he comes to a revelation: the love of God is better than life itself.Main Points:1. Today, people value a lot of different things. Some value pleasure and happiness. Others value experiences and possessions. Many value home, family, and comfort. For David, he had come to realize that what he valued more than anything else was the love of God. 2. How amazing it is to be loved by God. Let this truth fill your soul today. You are loved by God. Not just loved but loved deeply. You are on the heart and mind of God today.3. You can reach out to a God who loves you very much. Turn your heart towards God in worship, regardless of your circumstances. Anyone can worship God when life is good, but can you worship Him when life is hard? As you worship, I believe His presence will fill your soul. Reflect on the love of God. Rest in His love for you. Today's Scripture Verses:Psalm 63:1-4 - “You, God, are my God, earnestly I seek you; I thirst for you, my whole being longs for you, in a dry and parched land where there is no water. I have seen you in the sanctuary and beheld your power and your glory. Because your love is better than life, my lips will glorify you. I will praise you as long as I live”Romans 5:8 - “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

Imagine the impact on your life if you began to make this verse your daily prayer. What if we began every morning by letting God know our desire is that the words of our mouth and the thoughts in our minds be pleasing to Him?Main Points:1. Our choices, decisions, actions, and ultimately our lifestyle are determined by our thoughts and our words. This makes self-control so vital for us. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, we must control our words and thoughts. 2. All of us have said, “I shouldn't have thought that, and I wish I hadn't said that.” I believe with this prayer, David is telling us that our thoughts and words don't have to be impetuous. You and I are not without control. The Holy Spirit resides within us to give us power for daily living.3. As we learn to pay attention to our thoughts, we ask the question, “Does this thought please God? Does it honor the Lord? As we ask this all-important question, we can immediately take action. We can entertain the thought if it does please God, but if it doesn't, we can cast it out. We can reject the thought. We can refuse to think about things that don't please the Lord.Today's Scripture Verses:Psalm 19:14 - “May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing to you, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer.”2 Corinthians 10:5 - “…we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.” James 3:8 - “…no human being can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison.”James 1:19 - “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

Who is this? “Who is Jesus?”  Is he just a historical figure, a religious leader, a philosopher, or a teacher? Was he a revolutionary and a political rebel? Is he an imaginary person and a myth? Or is Jesus the Messiah, the King of the Jews, a Savior, and God in the flesh?Main Points:1. This is the most important question you will ever be asked. It's a personal question, with eternal implications… “Who is Jesus?”2. This is so important because to be almost right about Jesus is to be totally wrong.  Why? Because we cannot be saved by good opinions about Jesus. We are not saved because we like Jesus and have good feelings about him. We are not saved because we like his moral teaching about loving one another. That is not enough. 3. This is the most important question you will ever be asked. A good man? A great teacher? A revolutionary leader? Or is he the Christ, the Son of the Living God?  Who was he? Who is he? Your eternal destiny hangs on your answer. May God open your eyes to see Jesus as the Son of God. May you have the courage today to put your faith in him and trust him as the savior of your soul.Today's Scripture Verses:Mark 4:41 - “They were terrified and asked each other, “Who is this? Even the wind and the waves obey him!”Matthew 16:13-16 - “When Jesus came to the region of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, “Who do people say the Son of Man is?”  They replied, “Some say John the Baptist; others say Elijah; and still others, Jeremiah or one of the prophets.” “But what about you?” he asked. “Who do you say I am?” Simon Peter answered, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

The fear of the Lord is deep respect, awe, and reverence for God.  We give God the glory, honor, reverence, gratitude, and praise that he deserves.  God holds this preeminent position in our hearts and lives.  We regard his desires over and above our own.Main Points:1. The Bible repeatedly tells us not to fear. It's been said that the Bible gives us this command 365 times, one for each day of the year. This instruction is referring to destructive fear. 2 Timothy 1:7 - “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” But there is another kind of fear that is good for us. In fact, it's mentioned over 200 times in the Bible. It's the fear of the Lord. What does it mean to fear the Lord?2. Fearing the Lord is about deep reverence and respect. We should fear or respect the Lord as one who has authority over us. It is a recognition that we are accountable to Him.3. Wisdom begins and ends with the fear of the Lord. It isn't a fear of being struck by lightning or fear of being struck dead, but it's a deep, abiding, holy reverence and respect for the Lord and for His Word. Today's Scripture Verses:Listen to what Proverbs says about the fear of the Lord…“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.”  (Proverbs 9:10)“He who fears the Lord has a secure fortress, and for his children it will be a refuge” (14:26)“The fear of the Lord is a fountain of life, turning a man from the snares of death” (14:27)“Better a little with the fear of the Lord, than great wealth with turmoil” (15:16).“Through the fear of the Lord a man avoids evil” (16:6b).“Humility and the fear of the Lord bring wealth, honor and life” (22:4).Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

Have you ever felt the temptation to take revenge? Your work colleague takes the credit for a project you have worked so hard on. Your so-called friend betrays your confidence and spreads lies about you. Your spouse has been unfaithful. Someone has attacked you, mistreated you, ignored you, or socially rejected you. Main Points:1. Revenge is the desire or urge to get even with somebody.  To punish or cause harm as an act of retaliation.  2. The idea of revenge is only an illusion.  You can never “get even” with anyone.  It is impossible to balance the scales of hurt.  The only possible way to come out on top is to respond to hurt with a godly attitude and trust that God will settle the account.  3. The people of God do not retaliate.  The people of God do not seek vengeance.  We do not take revenge into our own hands.Today's Scripture Verses:Matthew 5:44 – “Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.”  Romans 12:19-21 - “Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God's wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord. On the contrary:  “If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink.  In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.”  Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

In the night hours, when you can't sleep, instead of dwelling on problems, uncertainties, and anxieties, turn your mind back to a song. It can be a song of worship and a song of praise. Main Points:1. It's at night, in the quiet, that our fears often increase their volume. Our minds ask, “What if this happens? What if the medical test turns out positive? What if I don't have enough money? What if my kids make wrong decisions? What if my elderly parents can't take care of themselves? There seems to be no end to the what-if questions.2. But a song in the night moves us from uncertainty to certainty. We are uncertain about many things in this life, but we are absolutely certain about God. We are certain that nothing will separate us from His love. We are certain he has been faithful in our past and will be faithful in our future. We are certain that He will never leave us or forsake us.3. Choose your song. Pick a song that exalts Jesus and reminds you of His faithfulness. When all is dark, let it be your song in the night.Today's Scripture Verses:Psalm 42;8 - "By day the Lord directs his love, at night his song is with me—a prayer to the God of my life.”Psalm 77:6 - “I remembered my songs in the night.”Acts 16:25 - “About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

Every Christian needs two people in their lives. We need someone we are learn from and someone we are discipling. We need someone in our lives that is helping us grow spiritually, and someone we are helping grow.Main Points:1. There is much emphasis today on our “personal relationship with Christ.” But sometimes because it's personal, we forget our responsibility to share it with others. 2. The Scripture informs us that the older women should teach the younger women. The older men should teach the younger men. This may not always refer to age because we know that just because a person is older it does not mean they are mature in the faith. I believe Paul is instructing us to find someone who is new in the faith so we can teach them how to follow Christ. This is discipleship.3. In discipleship, we model and teach toward a deeper love for and obedience to Christ. The goal of all discipleship is that we would be like Christ in our actions and character.Today's Scripture Verses:Matthew 28:19-20 - “Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you…”1 Thessalonians 5:11 - “Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing.”Hebrews 10:24 - “And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works…”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

I believe God calls Christians to be generous because generosity is a key component of our spiritual growth. It's our normal human instinct to be stingy, to think of our own needs, and to be concerned with our own comfort and happiness. Yet, when we break out of that mold and be generous, we are becoming like Christ. One of the greatest characteristics of Jesus is that He was and is generous. If you want to be like Jesus, become a generous person. Main Points:1. Why does our level of giving matter to God? Because it reveals our heart. Generosity is an outward demonstration of what we love and what we hold most dear.2. So, what is it that keeps us from becoming more generous? It's a great question because most people I know truly want to become more generous. So, why aren't we. Often times, it comes down to fear. We are afraid that if we are generous, we won't have enough to meet our own needs.3. Generosity is a key to spiritual growth because it is a selfless characteristic. As we grow spiritually the things that matter to God become increasingly more important to us. Today's Scripture Verses:Proverbs 11:25 - “A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.”2 Corinthians 8:7 - “See that you also excel in this grace of giving.”Matthew 6:21 - “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”2 Corinthians 9:6 - “Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

Admittedly, waiting is hard for most of us. It seems that impatience is the human characteristic that identifies us all. Today, we live in a quick response, on demand culture. Waiting on anything is becoming increasingly difficult. But as Christians, there is one thing we will have to wait on. We will have to wait on God. I guarantee it. As a part of His plan, His purpose, and His character development in our lives, God will make us wait.Main Points:1. If God makes us wait, we can trust there is always a reason. It's hard because we can't always see the reason at first. Yet, as a good Heavenly Father, He doesn't play games with us. He doesn't do things without a reason. There is always a purpose to His plan. In the waiting there is something to learn, something to gain, and something to experience. Don't miss the blessing in the waiting just because you are impatient. It's possible the waiting season is also God's way of protecting you.2. God makes us wait, because it's here we learn that life is not about us. It's about Him. It's about His ways, His timing, and His plans. Waiting on God increases our dependance on Him. It grows our faith and shapes our character.3. Don't get weary in the waiting. What God has in store for you is worth waiting on.Today's Scripture Verses:Psalm 37:7 - “Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him…” Psalm 130:5-6 - “I wait for the Lord, my whole being waits, and in his word I put my hope. I wait for the Lord more than watchmen wait for the morning…”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

The question Jesus asks in Matthew 5:6 is….”Do we possess a craving hunger and thirst for God's righteous life?  The promise? “If we do, we will be filled.”Main Points:1. Because of our lack of hunger, it may be difficult for us to understand this particular beatitude. We rarely hunger and thirst after anything, so we miss the urgency of these words.2. If you and I want righteousness, we can have it. If you want a closer relationship with God, you can have it. Jesus provides the way. If you want to do God's will, you can. If you want to grow spiritually, you can. You have to hunger for it.3. How do we maintain a hunger for the righteousness of God? We make knowing God our number one goal in life.Today's Scripture Verses:Matthew 5:6 - “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.”James 4:8 - “Come near to God and he will come near to you.”Psalm 107:9 - “For he satisfies the longing soul, and the hungry soul he fills with good things.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

Here's what I want you to think about today: Whatever you are going to do for God, you need to do it now. What is it that God has put on your heart to do? What burden are you carrying? What calling do you have on your life? Have you been saying, “Someday I want to serve God in a particular way? Someday I want to do this for God.” Hear this word. Someday is today. Someday is now.Main Points:1. We cannot put off until tomorrow what God is calling us to do today. The days, weeks, months, and years are going by, and they are going by quickly. We cannot go back and change the past, but we can do something about today.2. So, let's get to it. Let's get started. Not tomorrow, but today. What has God put on your heart to do? What passion to serve the Lord do you carry? Let's get started.  What can you do today? What small step can you take right now? 3. I don't know what God is speaking to your heart, but I do know the Holy Spirit is always calling us to go, to serve, and to step out into the plan of God. Fear and busyness cause us to delay and to wait. They lead us to put off until tomorrow the things God has put on our hearts.Today's Scripture Verses:Psalm 49:7 - “No one can redeem the life of another or give to God a ransom for them.”Job 14:5 - “A person's days are determined; you have decreed the number of his months and have set limits he cannot exceed.”Ephesians 5:16 - “Making the best use of the time, because the days are evil.”Proverbs 27:1  - “Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring.”James 4:13-15 - “Now listen, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money.” Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. Instead, you ought to say, “If it is the Lord's will, we will live and do this or that.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

Maybe today you feel alone. Perhaps due to your mistakes and failures you have isolated yourself from others. Maybe you are struggling and you wonder where God is. Possibly, you feel as if you are on the far side of the wilderness. Stand on this truth from God's Word: He will never leave you or forsake you.Main Points:1. This morning as I was reading my Bible, I found myself in Exodus chapter three. It's the story where Moses meets God at the burning bush. Six words leaped off the page as I read the familiar story. It says Moses was on “the far side of the wilderness.” Moses wasn't just in the wilderness, he was on the far side of the wilderness. What is the wilderness? The dictionary defines it as “an uncultivated, uninhabited, and inhospitable region.” In other words, Moses was as isolated as a person could get.2. Yet, on the far side of the wilderness, with not another person in sight, Moses was not alone. It's here Moses has a life-changing encounter with God. He is reminded he is not alone, he is not forgotten, and God's purpose for his life has not changed.3. Moses never forgot about the day he encountered God at the burning bush. It was a revelation of God's continued purpose and plan for his life, but the greater lesson for Moses was the necessity of God's presence. Today's Scripture Verses:Exodus 3:1 - "Now Moses was tending the flock of Jethro his father-in-law, the priest of Midian, and he led the flock to the far side of the wilderness..."Psalm 139:7-10 - “Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence? If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there. If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea, even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast.”Exodus 33:15-16 - “Then Moses said to him, “If your Presence does not go with us, do not send us up from here. How will anyone know that you are pleased with me and with your people unless you go with us? What else will distinguish me and your people from all the other people on the face of the earth?”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group