The Craig T. Owens Audio Blog

Perhaps our God-centered, Christ-exalting, prayer-saturated lives may be just the catalyst that leads to the salvation of one of the most unlikely world leaders.  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. ◀︎◀︎

Hello, my brothers and sisters! On this episode of The Podcast, let me tell you how much power is packed into that simple greeting. Watch the video version of this episode 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 God who gives you faith wants to reward that faith. Your faith raises your expectations as you go to God in prayer again and again. Watch the video version of this sermon.  If you have missed any of the other messages in our series Prayer Changes Things, 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. ◀︎◀︎

You are lovingly and securely held in the most powerful, the most loving Hand imaginable!  Check out the video version of this episode.  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 description of King Jesus exceeds our vocabulary to define Him! The more you get to know Him, the more you want to know Him as your King and Savior! 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 prayer changes our attitude—when we know the sweetness of God's loving deliverance—our attitude of rejoicing not only keeps us climbing, but it helps other find their way to God too.  Watch the video version of this sermon.  Keep up with all of the messages in this prayer series by clicking here. ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

One of a leader's most important jobs is guiding the vision of their organization. Much has been said about getting others to follow that vision, and in our most recent episode Greg and I talked about being careful to stay true to the vision you have set. Check out the video version of this segment.  You can watch this full episode of The Craig and Greg Show here. The first book in our Business by the Book series is on a CEO's vision casting. This will be available soon. In the meantime, check out some other leadership resources from Greg and me: Greg's books Sage Advice and Sales Armageddon. My leadership books Shepherd Leadership and When Sheep Bite. My ongoing series of blog posts on godly leadership. 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 catalogue of all of the sermon series I shared with my congregation in 2025.  Check out 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. ◀︎◀︎

We tend to distrust those in governmental positions who wield too much power. When Jesus came as the undisputed and unrivaled King of kings, He flipped the script on what people had expected.  Watch the video version of this sermon.  If you've missed any of the previous messages in our series looking at the titles and roles of the Messiah, 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. ◀︎◀︎

Greg and I have enjoyed bringing you quality leadership content this year and we look forward to another great year ahead. 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 message of "Peace on earth" is so simple and yet so profound. This ultimate and eternal peace is only possible because of the advent of the Prince of Peace.  Check out the video version of this sermon.  If you've missed any of the other messages in this series, you can find them all here. ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

Have you ever thought how odd it is that Isaiah would call the Child to be born in Bethlehem the "Everlasting Father"?  Check out the video version of this sermon.  Check out all of the biblical references in this sermon here → http://bible.com/events/49535912 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. ◀︎◀︎

In a previous episode we brought you the exciting news that Greg and I are collaborating to write a series of books called Business By The Book. In today's episode, we revisit the first book in this series—A CEO's Vision—and discuss how once the vision has been cast the next vital step is to bring your team along with you.  Watch the video version of this episode.  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. ◀︎◀︎

Prayers that are aligned with the heart of God—prayers that are grounded in the Word of God—have the "Amen" of Jesus added to them.  Check out my book Amen Indeed.  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 do we know that the Old Testament prophecies really pointed to Jesus of Nazareth who was born in Bethlehem? Check out the video version of this sermon.  If you've missed any of the other message in our Advent series called Jesus Is…, you can find them all 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. ◀︎◀︎

The apostle Paul tells us not to be anxious about anything. So a great question for us to ask is: When does legitimate concern cross the line to become worry and anxiety? 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. ◀︎◀︎

As you live between the Advents, I pray that the glory of our Wonderful Counselor will become more real to you and that it will shine out of every word you speak and everything you do!  Check out the video version of this sermon.  Check out the other posts in this series Jesus 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. ◀︎◀︎

Psalm 107 calls us to look back at the history of God's faithfulness, and then use those lessons to give God thanks in our current situations. Check out 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. ◀︎◀︎

On an episode of The Craig and Greg Show, Greg and I discussed some toxic behaviors that can creep into your workplace and cause major discord. Two attitudes to watch out for are confidence without humility, and humility without confidence.  Watch this video clip here. Check out this full Craig and Greg Show episode here. And check out my Shepherd Leadership book where I dive into this topic in greater depth at http://shepherdleadershipbook.com.

What the world calls ordinary or even unclean, Jesus can make extraordinarily powerful. 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. ◀︎◀︎

Look back through the pages of history and you will see a common theme. Whether it's world history or your own personal history, you have so much for which you can give thanks. Remember: We can quickly go from contentment mode to crisis mode when we forget that God is in control, so remain full of thanks. Check out the video version of this sermon.  Check out all the Scriptures in this sermon → http://bible.com/events/49521902  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 entire Maximize team loves our veterans! Those that volunteer to serve and protect our nation deserve our utmost respect, and we honor their sacrifice. In today's episode Greg and I discuss the leadership lessons we have learned from veterans—some directly and others by simply observing the way our nation's protectors conduct themselves. Join us as we salute the contributions of veterans! Check out the video version of this episode.  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 must not get sidetracked or distracted, we must not contend in a contentious way, but we must remain united with Jesus and united with fellow saints as we seek to expand the Kingdom of God. Check out the video version of this sermon.  Check out the Scriptures used in this sermon → http://bible.com/events/49518860  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. ◀︎◀︎

Before a leader can cast a compelling vision for an organization, he or she has to be living a compelling personal vision. Greg and I explain why this is an indispensable first step. Check out the video version of this episode.  This clip is from an episode of The Craig and Greg Show where we are discussing the first book in our new series of books called Business by the Book. The first book is What the Bible says about a CEO's vision-casting. 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. ◀︎◀︎

On this episode of The Podcast, let's talk about seeing something brighter in the darkest of times.  Check out the video version of this episode.  My newest book is a book of prayers for pastors called "Amen Indeed." Get more details at http://craigtowens.com. 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 must contend for the faith without contention or compromise, and especially without getting pulled into foolish controversies. Check out the video version of this sermon.  If you've missed any of the other messages in our series called Earnestly Contending, you can find them all here. Check out the Scriptures used in this sermon → http://bible.com/events/49515575 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. ◀︎◀︎

We can all agree that disagreeable people are some of the hardest to work with, constantly shooting down ideas without providing anything constructive in return. These types of people can quickly put a strain on any organization if left unchecked. However, we need to be careful not to lump disagreement into the category of disagreeable. In this episode Greg and I discuss why people in disagreement are actually the exact opposite of disagreeable, and are a valuable asset to your organization. Watch the video version of this conversation.  My book When Sheep Bite is a great resource for dealing with people who are disagreeing to the point of becoming disagreeable. Check it out! 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 you go to the doctor because you sense that something is wrong, you want your doctor to tell you the truth. 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 chief weapon for the saints of God who contend for the faith is the Word of God. But before we use it to contend, we have to first allow God to apply it to our personal life.  Watch the full sermon video here.  If you've missed any of the other messages in this series from the Book of Jude, you can find them all 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. ◀︎◀︎

Leaders have an important balancing act to perform every day: remaining in control of their organization without becoming a controlling leader. Over-controlling leaders who micromanage end up stifling creativity that could be unleashed in their teammates. Check out the video version of this clip.  Check out the full conversation on The Craig and Greg Show episode The Balance of Control.  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. ◀︎◀︎

Even Jeremiah—one of the mightiest prophets in biblical history—struggled with self-doubt when facing the difficulties of ministry. Let's learn the same lesson about God's faithfulness that Jeremiah learned.  Check out Shepherd Leadership and When Sheep Bite. 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. ◀︎◀︎

I would like to tell you about my newest book which I didn't really write. On this episode of The Podcast, I'll tell you all about Amen Indeed. Watch the video version of this episode.  You can see the clip from the Ailbe Podcast where the idea for Amen Indeed was first sparked by clicking here. If you are a pastor—or if you want to give your pastor a special gift—please check out Amen Indeed. 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. ◀︎◀︎

As saints entrusted with the faith, we have to learn to contend for this faith without becoming contentious and without compromising the truth. Check out the video version of this sermon.  If you've missed any of the other messages in this series Earnestly Contend, you can find them all here.  Check out the Scriptures used in this sermon → http://bible.com/events/49508871 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 amazing things about the Bible is that it has practical application for every aspect of our lives—including the business world! Today Greg and I are excited to announce that for the first time in our long friendship we are writing collaborators on a new series of books entitled Business By The Book. In today's episode we preview the first book in this series about a CEO's vision. Check out the video version of this episode.  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. ◀︎◀︎

In the first ten verses of Ephesians 2 Paul talks about the amazing transformation from who we were before we met Jesus to who we are now with Jesus as our Lord and Savior.  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. ◀︎◀︎

Jude doesn't pull his punches when he tells us how strenuous the spiritual battle is in which Christians have to contend. Check out the training that is required for this battle. Check out the video version of this sermon.  If you've missed any of the other messages in our series Earnestly Contend, you can find them all here.  Check out the Scriptures used in this sermon → http://bible.com/events/49505675  My newest book Amen Indeed is a book of prayers for pastors to pray for themselves. Please pick up a copy for your pastor today. 

Christians need to be known more for what is good than for what is bad. Jesus hasn't called us to point out what's bad, but to point out how good Jesus is. Check out the video version of this episode.  The parable that I reference in this video is found in Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43. You can watch the full sermon from which this clip came by clicking 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. ◀︎◀︎

Jude calls on saints to “contend for the faith.” To truly learn what this means, we need to consider the context of both the author and the audience of this powerful epistle.  Check out the video version of this sermon.  Follow along with all of the sermons in this series called Earnestly Contend.  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. ◀︎◀︎

“Kids these days just don't understand!” That's probably a phrase you've heard more than a few times from members of generations your elder, and there is some truth to it! Each generation has very diverse experiences which make them unique from the groups before and after them. In today's episode, Greg and I want to encourage you to understand and embrace generational differences to make your team stronger. Check out the video version of this episode.  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. ◀︎◀︎

Looking at how such noteworthy people in the Bible viewed themselves, how could I ever claim a title any higher than servant?  I get much deeper into this topic of biblically-grounded leadership in my book Shepherd Leadership: The Metrics That Really Matter. 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. ◀︎◀︎

Jesus calls us to be involved in our communities—in our personal mission field. In order to do this in a Christ-honoring way, we have to know what the Bible says about our interaction with others.   Check out the video version of this sermon.  Check out all of the Scriptures in this message → http://bible.com/events/49498639  If you've missed any of the previous messages in our series B.A.S.I.C. Christianity, you can find them all here. ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

One of the most important boundaries that shepherd leaders need to establish—especially when contending with biting sheep—is the protection of their family. Check out the video version of this clip.  You can watch the full episode in which Greg and I talk about some of the principles in When Sheep Bite by clicking here. Please pick up a copy of When Sheep Bite for yourself by clicking here. ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

The approval of Jesus eternally outweighs the approval or even the persecution of men.  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 first two brothers in biblical history teach us what it really means to be a “brother's keeper.” The New Testament builds on this to show us how saints are to step-in for each other.  Check out the video version of this sermon.  If you've missed any of the other messages in this series, you can find them all 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. ◀︎◀︎

In the wise words of John C. Maxwell, “He who thinketh he leadeth and hath no one following him is only taking a walk.” As always Maxwell is right on the money. And the first step to getting others to follow you is trust. If you want to lead your team into uncharted territory they have to first trust that you're not going to lead them off a cliff! In today's episode Greg and I cover why trust is so vital and offer suggestions on how to build and maintain trust. 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. ◀︎◀︎

The deadliest enemy is not “out there” but “in 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. ◀︎◀︎

Why do Christians minister? The “why” is vital for us to get right.  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. ◀︎◀︎

Can we take just a couple of minutes to talk about fear on this episode of The Podcast? This isn't on the list of anyone's favorite topics, but it is something we all have to confront. Check out the video version of this episode.  I shared a whole series of messages called “Do Not Be Afraid” which you can check out here. Some other related posts are: Unlearning limiting fears Scarecrows in the melon patch Fear vs. hope 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. ◀︎◀︎

On the Church Lobby podcast, Karl Vaters asked me for the best piece of advice I have received as a pastor. Here's what a wise mentor told me that changed my leadership style.  Check out the video version of this conversation.  Leaders can individualize their care for those around them by slowing down. Here's another conversation I had with Karl on this topic. You may also be interested in my full interview on The Church Lobby 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 apostle Paul makes it so clear that the Holy Spirit is a Person with Whom I should be in regular and intimate conversation by using five different word pictures for the Spirit-led life.  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 pain you are experiencing from those who attacked you will negatively impact those around you unless you take time to recover.  You can check out the article I wrote for Influence magazine here, and then pick up a copy of When Sheep Bite to help your recovery time. Check out what the public ministry of Jesus teaches us about the healthy practice of sabbathing. I also recommend these related posts and videos about self-care: Playtime can be a leadership tool Leaders need to refresh The importance of margin ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎