The Craig T. Owens Audio Blog

There is no finish line for you while God still has you on earth. If you're still here, He's still working on you so that He can work through you. So take a deep breath. If you're still breathing, God still has a plan for you. Don't worry about the finish line (God will take care of that), but keep learning, growing, and serving all the way to the end.  Watch the video version of this sermon.  Check out all of the verses in this sermon → http://bible.com/events/49636879 Check out my blog, my other podcasts, my books, and so much more at http://linktr.ee/craigtowens  ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

Is it really true that practice makes perfect? And if so, what exactly does perfection look like? Check out this episode of The Podcast.  Watch the video version of The Podcast.  Check out my blog, my other podcasts, my books, and so much more at http://linktr.ee/craigtowens  ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

The "Hall of Fame of Faith" in Hebrews 11 tells us about people who saw and heard what God promised them long before those things came to be.  Check out my blog, my other podcasts, my books, and so much more at http://linktr.ee/craigtowens  ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

Psalm 95 is both an invitation and a warning, and it's important that we heed both of them. Watch the video version of this sermon.  Here are all of the Scriptures referenced in this message.  If you've missed any of the other royal psalms which we have already explored, you can find them all by clicking here. ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

Gentleness is both a safe word and an unsafe word, which makes gentleness such an indispensable trait for shepherd leaders. Check out this clip from my time on the Leading from Alignment podcast. Watch the video version of this conversation.  Please check pick up a copy of When Sheep Bite today. ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

The Bible has much to say to those who talk about others, and none of it is good.  You may also want to check out a couple of related posts: Exposing the bitterness of gossip Slander don'ts and dos [Video] Goals instead of gossip Check out my blog, my other podcasts, my books, and so much more at http://linktr.ee/craigtowens  ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

The clothing of King David not only points us to the clothing of King Jesus, but also the clothing of the saints as well.  Watch the video version of this sermon.  Here are all of the Scriptures referenced in this message → http://bible.com/events/49631557  If you would like to check out the other Royal Psalms that we've already looked at, you can find those here. ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

A storm is coming. What are you going to do: brace for it or run for cover? Watch the video version of this episode.  The Scriptures I reference in this video are Proverbs 27:12; Matthew 6:8, 32; James 1:2-4; and Romans 5:3-5. I also mentioned a previous related blog post entitled Faith Over Fear. One of the storms many leaders face is the attack from those whom they lead. I address this topic extensively—and a better alternative to a fight-or-flight response—in my book When Sheep Bite. ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

As our lives are transformed, we become living, breathing testimonies to others of the life-changing power of God's love in us and through us.  Check out my blog, my other podcasts, my books, and so much more at http://linktr.ee/craigtowens  ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

This prayer of King David not only points to the advent of King Jesus, but it outlines a pattern for the servants of the King to live out every day.  Watch the video version of this sermon.  If you would like to check out the other Royal Psalms we have already unpacked, please click here. ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

Greg and I promise we aren't here to nitpick your grammar, but in some instances understanding the full meaning of words can help us to realize how they are affecting our patterns of thinking. In today's episode we are discussing cooperation and collaboration—two words that are often used interchangeably. However, a deeper examination reveals that their differences can be the deciding factor between a surviving team and a thriving team. Watch the video version of this conversation.  Check out my blog, my other podcasts, my books, and so much more at http://linktr.ee/craigtowens  ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

This is a vital book to helping you live in a way that brings God glory and fills you with a sense of purpose and satisfaction. Check out my review of " Why Is Greater Than What" by Jim Wiegand.  Check out my blog, my other podcasts, my books, and so much more at http://linktr.ee/craigtowens  ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

A righteous father who came on the scene some 2800 years ago is still speaking valuable lessons for men (and especially fathers) today.  Watch the video version of this sermon.  Check out my blog, my other podcasts, my books, and so much more at http://linktr.ee/craigtowens  ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

Charles Spurgeon, the man called the Prince of Preachers, knew how important it was for his congregation to be praying for him. Check out the video version of this episode.  Order a copy of Amen Indeed today for your favorite pastor. ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

Our King wants our lives to be valuable currency for His kingdom.  Check out my blog, my other podcasts, my books, and so much more at http://linktr.ee/craigtowens  ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

The Book of Proverbs anticipates the role of the Holy Spirit who will bless us with "skillful and godly Wisdom" and help us "get understanding...from God's Word and life's experiences."  Watch the video version of this sermon.  Check out all of the verses in this sermon → http://bible.com/events/49621450 Check out my blog, my other podcasts, my books, and so much more at http://linktr.ee/craigtowens  ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

One of the most difficult—but rewarding—decisions a leader will ever make is to honestly confront themselves on their part in a relationship or organizational problem. Check out the video version of this conversation.  Check out the full conversation Greg and I had on the Craig and Greg Show episode called Growth from the Hard Road. And you may also want to check out a whole series of messages I shared in the series Thankful in the Night. Get more information on my book When Sheep Bite by clicking here. ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

As the writer of Hebrews instructs saints on how they should interact with their leaders. But what if we flip the script to see how leaders should live in a way that allows others to follow them.  This is part 88 in my series on godly leadership. You can check out all of my posts in this series by clicking here. And you may also want to check out my books for church leaders—Shepherd Leadership and When Sheep Bite. ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

Jesus was sustained in doing His Father's work by the joy that He knew would be realized in the completed work. This joy in the Holy Spirit is the same thing that keeps Christians delighted in their duties today. Watch the video version of this sermon.  Check out all of the Bible verses in this sermon.  Check out all of the messages in this series about the power of the Holy Spirit in our lives by clicking here. ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

If you are reading the Gospels with the words of Jesus printed in red, there is one place where the red ink virtually disappears: When Jesus is on trial before Pilate, Herod, and the Sanhedrin. There's an important lesson here for us.  Check out the video version of this clip.  This clip was from a sermon entitled The Essential Confession. The Scripture I reference in this clip is Matthew 16:24-27. I allude to three related blog posts: The point of the Gospel Eloquent silence Should Christians debate? My book When Sheep Bite addresses some biblical responses to the attacks that come our way. I encourage you to check it out. ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

A true-life story that reads like a fictional crime story. Check out my book review of "Night of the Assassins." Check out my blog, my other podcasts, my books, and so much more at http://linktr.ee/craigtowens  ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

Temptation isn't sin, but it's an invitation to allow the Holy Spirit to help us overcome temptation's pull, just as He helped Jesus when He was tempted.  Check out the video version of this sermon.  Check out all of the other messages in our series We Are: Pentecostal by clicking here. ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

When some sort of chemical or toxin is spilled in the environment it doesn't just stay put, it spreads, corrupting everything around it. The same principle is true in our organizations—toxic behaviors that are allowed to fester will spread until they consume your entire team. So put on your hazmat suit and join Greg and me as we address common toxic behaviors and offer strategies on how to root them out before they can take hold. Check out the video version of this conversation.  Check out my blog, my other podcasts, my books, and so much more at http://linktr.ee/craigtowens  ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

There is a once-in-the-Bible word used in the New Testament, but it's a longing that is seen all throughout the Scripture—a desire for a place of eternal rest in God's presence. Check out my blog, my other podcasts, my books, and so much more at http://linktr.ee/craigtowens  ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

The Holy Spirit wants to develop the mind of Christ within us. With this mind, our lives will be transformed and we will be empowered to be His witnesses. Check out the video version of this sermon.  Here are all of the verses in this sermon → http://bible.com/events/49612621  Check out my blog, my other podcasts, my books, and so much more at http://linktr.ee/craigtowens  ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

It's amazing to think that the way I pray could result in Jesus saying, "Amen" at the end of my prayer! Check out the video version of this clip.  I wrote a book of prayers to help pastors pray for themselves and their ministries. Check out Amen Indeed and order a copy today. ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

Your daily race, run in the perfection of Jesus, matters! Check out my blog, my other podcasts, my books, and so much more at http://linktr.ee/craigtowens  ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

Have Christians today accepted a life that is sub-normal to what Jesus promised and what we read about the first Christians? If so, how do we address this?  Watch the video version of this sermon.  Check out my blog, my other podcasts, my books, and so much more at http://linktr.ee/craigtowens  ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

Accountability is a word you might have some negative connotations attached to. Many people have only heard the word in the context of taking ownership for a mistake or a "shape up or else" talk with the boss. In today's episode Greg and I offer a different perspective, discussing how a healthy accountability culture can strengthen and grow your organization. Check out the video version of this leadership conversation.  Check out my blog, my other podcasts, my books, and so much more at http://linktr.ee/craigtowens  ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

There is a massive difference between serving words and smooth words. This will be made abundantly and eternally clear when Jesus returns and judges our words. Check out my blog, my other podcasts, my books, and so much more at http://linktr.ee/craigtowens  ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

Godly mothers and grandmothers, know that your life has power today and it has influence that will continue to be felt long after you are gone!  Watch the video version of this sermon.  Check out all of the Scriptures I use in this message → http://bible.com/events/49606740 Check out my blog, my other podcasts, my books, and so much more at http://linktr.ee/craigtowens  ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

Nearly every church has a pulpit where the pastor stands to deliver the weekly sermon. And almost every evangelical church gathering has the same order of service. Where did these things originate? Check out the video version of this podcast.  I talk more about biblical and non-biblical issues in this video, and in my blog post and video called "Use the right term." The full sermon from which this clip came is here. Check out my blog, my other podcasts, my books, and so much more at http://linktr.ee/craigtowens  ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

When culture gets a hold of it, morality always decays. But this example from Jesus shows us the cure.  Check out my blog, my other podcasts, my books, and so much more at http://linktr.ee/craigtowens  ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

Christians have precious, invaluable, life-changing treasures to share, but some aren't ready for it yet. We must be discerning with what we share and with whom we share it.  Watch the video version of this sermon.  Check out all of the Scriptures I use in this message.  Check out my blog, my other podcasts, my books, and so much more at http://linktr.ee/craigtowens  ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

Gut instinct, a feelings, a sixth sense—we have a lot of different phrases for intuition. Whatever you want to call it, we all have those moments where we just know what the right decision is. Join Greg and I as we discuss why it's important to develop this skill, and how to find the right time to turn your intuition into execution.  Check out the video version of this conversation.  Check out my blog, my other podcasts, my books, and so much more at http://linktr.ee/craigtowens  ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

God created me to be me. I am the most alive when I am allowing God to work thought my plans, thoughts, and actions.  Check out my blog, my other podcasts, my books, and so much more at http://linktr.ee/craigtowens  ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

How a person dies and how their body is disposed of makes no difference to where that person will spend eternity.  Watch the video version of this sermon.  Check out all of the Scriptures I use in this message → http://bible.com/events/49599760  Check out more of the questions we have covered in our Is That In The Bible? series by clicking here. ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

I want to give you a life-changing Bible study tip in just one word.  Check out the video version of this podcast.  Check out my blog, my other podcasts, my books, and so much more at http://linktr.ee/craigtowens  ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

It all starts with what we are looking at the most attentively.  Check out my blog, my other podcasts, my books, and so much more at http://linktr.ee/craigtowens  ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

It's a well-known and longed-for sentiment: The lion will lay down with the lamb. Is that in the Bible? You may be surprised by the answer.  Watch the video version of this sermon.  Check out the previous statement we have discussed in this series by clicking here. ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

Think back to some of the hard times you've been through. Do those times conjure up fond memories and a longing to return to yesteryear? Of course not! Most people do their best to forget these moments as quickly as possible, but a mature leader recognizes the value of the suffering they've endured. Join us for today's episode as we discuss how your most painful moments have the potential to be your biggest opportunities for growth. Check out the video version of this conversation.  In this episode I talk about my book When Sheep Bite. You can find out more about that book here. 

Christians should be known as the best of gentlemen or gentlewomen wherever they go and in whatever circumstances they find themselves.  Check out my blog, my other podcasts, my books, and so much more at http://linktr.ee/craigtowens  ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

The Bible uses three pictures of the saints that make up the Church. In all three of these images, if we are not maturing in our involvement, then we are declining.  Check out the video version of this sermon.  Check out all of the Scriptures I used in this sermon → http://bible.com/events/49592516  If you've missed any of the messages in this series, you can check them all out here. ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

I was asked to share one of the funniest things I've seen in church. I didn't exactly "see" this one, but it still ranks as the funniest things ever! Check out the video version of this story.  In all seriousness, we often are looking for "a sign" to help us confirm the direction God may be leading us. I would invite you to check out Knowing God's Will, especially if you are contemplating God's direction for you. Check out my blog, my other podcasts, my books, and so much more at http://linktr.ee/craigtowens  ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

Other notable people in history have a legacy that lives on after their death, so does it really matter for Christians that Jesus was resurrected from the dead? Check out the video version of this sermon.  Check out all of the messages in this series "I will build My Church" by clicking here. ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

A lot of people have offered a lot of opinions on Jesus of Nazareth, but let's explore what He said about Himself, His mission on earth, and His eternal Kingdom. Watch the video version of this sermon.  We have been learning what Jesus said about His saints and His Church in our series "I will build My Church." Check out all of the sermons in this series. ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

Are you in touch with your emotions? While it might sound like something out of a Hallmark movie to some, having a robust emotional quotient is a vital skill for a leader. Join Greg and me as we get all emotional in this episode. Check out the video version of this conversation.  Check out my other podcasts, my books, and so much more by clicking here.

God wants to protect you with His peace. However, if you begin to feel anxiety taking control of your mind, here are two surefire steps to regain the protection of God's peace. Check out my blog, my other podcasts, my books, and so much more at http://linktr.ee/craigtowens  ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

If Christians have a hard time defining what "Christian" means, is it any wonder that people outside of our church circles sometimes look at us like we're a bit off?  Check out the video version of this sermon.  Check out all of the other messages in this series by clicking here. ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

I've got something to share with pastors, but for the rest of you—who love your pastors—I hope you will listen in!  Watch the video version of this episode.  A couple of other blog posts that may help you on this topic of servant leadership are: From "servant" to "shepherd" Serve more to lead better CEO or pastor? Praying for your pastor My books are for my fellow pastors. Shepherd Leadership will help us keep the biblical metrics in mind when we are thinking about our leadership roles. When Sheep Bite is an invaluable resource to help pastors continue to serve their flock, even after being painfully attacked. And Amen Indeed is a book of prayers for pastoral effectiveness.

It's very interesting that when Paul writes about "the last days," he warns us about our misplaced love.  Check out my blog, my other podcasts, my books, and so much more at http://linktr.ee/craigtowens  ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎