The Daily Nugget

Today on the Daily Nugget, Mike talks about Jesus' call to love our enemies—and how Jesus Himself modeled it. He never backed down from truth, but lovingly invited even His enemies to embrace it, praying for them from the cross (Luke 23:34). Jesus commands us to love and pray for our enemies (Matthew 5:44), because this kind of love has the power to disarm hostility and even transform a situation. Loving enemies isn't weakness—it's gospel strength in action.

Today on the Daily Nugget, Mike digs into Jesus' call to love—love God, love your neighbor as yourself, and love one another. Tomorrow, we'll take the next hard step and talk about loving our enemies. This kind of love isn't partial or compartmentalized. It's not just part of us Jesus wants—it's all of us.

Today on the Daily Nugget, Mike talks about Jesus' command to worship Him, drawing from John 4 and the triumphal entry where Jesus intentionally orchestrates worship as He enters Jerusalem. He shows that worship is not something Jesus merely receives when it happens naturally—it's something He invites, commands, and even arranges, because it rightly reveals who He is. In both moments, Jesus calls people to respond to His true identity with hearts fully turned toward Him.

Today on the Daily Nugget, Mike focuses on Jesus' call to pray to the Lord of the harvest to raise up more workers, drawing from Matthew's Gospel. He emphasizes that God's desire is not simply to fill roles, but to form people with the heart of Christ—men and women shaped by His compassion for the lost. As true shepherds for wandering sheep, we are invited to pray not only for more workers, but for lives transformed to love, see, and share the gospel the way Jesus does.

Today on the Daily Nugget, Mike focuses on Jesus' calls to prayer and worship, showing that they are not optional spiritual add-ons but central to life with God. Drawing from Luke 18:1, Matthew 5:44, Matthew 7:7, and John 4:24, he explores how Jesus invites us into persistent prayer, prayer that loves our enemies, bold asking, and worship that flows from Spirit and truth. These commands aren't burdens—they are invitations into deeper trust, intimacy, and alignment with the heart of the Father.

Today on the Daily Nugget, Mike talks about obedience—not as religious duty, but as a gift that deepens our relationship with God and brings real freedom into our lives. Obedience isn't how we earn God's love; it's how we respond to it as the Spirit forms Christ in us. Drawing from a chapter in his Fruit of the Spirit book, Mike shows how obedience is one of the primary ways we cultivate spiritual fruit and grow in intimacy with the Lord. When we trust God enough to obey, even when it's costly, we discover that His ways truly lead to life.

Today on the Daily Nugget, Mike focuses on belief and faith—the foundation of being made right with God and the foundation for the Holy Spirit working powerfully in our lives. Jesus makes it clear from the very beginning that everything starts here. In Mark 1:15 He calls us to repent and believe the good news, and in John 14:1 He invites us to believe in God and believe also in Him. Belief is not just mental agreement; it is trusting our lives to the One the Father has sent. When we truly believe, our allegiance shifts, our hearts open, and the Spirit of God is given room to move, transform, and bear fruit in us. Faith is the doorway—everything else flows from there.

Today on the Daily Nugget, Mike explores Jesus' command to follow Him. Drawing from Matthew 4:19, Matthew 16:24, and John 15:4, we reflect on what it truly means to be a disciple—leaving our old paths, taking up our cross, and learning to abide in Christ day by day.

Today on the Daily Nugget, Mike shares the first two verses for this study from Matthew 4 and John 4: Repent and be born again. We are called to change our allegiance and do a complete 180—and the only way we can do that is through the Spirit of God coming in and transforming us as we are born again.

Today on the Daily Nugget, Mike kicks off a brand-new series on the commandments of Jesus, rooted in His words from John 14 and 15: “If you love me, you will keep my commandments.” Mike reflects honestly on his own journey with obedience — and it may surprise you that he hasn't always been a fan. But through the Gospel, he's discovered that obedience isn't about pressure or performance; it's about love, freedom, and walking in the life God designed for us. Join us as we learn how loving Jesus and keeping His commands can truly change everything.

Today on the Daily Nugget, Mike shares more from his writing retreat to AZ and another God story. He shares how God put him with the exact right person to help him navigate a very difficult section he was trying to tackle in his book on the Fruit of the Spirit.

Today on the Daily Nugget, Mike shares insights from his writing retreat, reflecting on what God has been teaching him about healing and restoration. He tells the story of how God led him to read a book on these topics and then brought a woman into his life who was struggling. Mike had the opportunity to share the gospel with her, pray for her, and guide her toward healing and restoration. Tune in for a reminder of how God uses both learning and everyday encounters to bring hope and transformation.

Today on the Daily Nugget, Mike does a quick catch-up on what God is leading Him into for 2026. He shares some of the things coming up on the Daily Nugget in the next couple months. He has an amazing God story to tell too!

Today on the Daily Nugget, Mike shares a Christmas reflection from Philippians 2, focusing on the incredible humility of Jesus. Though He is the majestic, worshiped, and glorious King of heaven, Jesus willingly set all of that aside and entered our world in the most humble way imaginable—becoming a single cell for us. In doing so, He modeled true humility, showing us what it looks like to live with love, obedience, and selflessness, and inviting us to reflect that same humility in how we live and serve others.

Today on the Daily Nugget, Mike shares the number one reason he believes in Christianity. Quite simply, if someone said, ‘Mike, you have five minutes to convince me Christianity is true,' the answer would be this: it works. Following God changes every part of your life for the better. It brings purpose, peace, forgiveness, and hope—not because life becomes easy, but because God transforms the heart. Christianity isn't just something to believe; it's something to live, and when it's lived, it changes everything.

Today on the Daily Nugget, Mike reflects on the astonishing precision required for life in our universe. As Hugh Ross explains in his article on the probability of life on Earth, the number of conditions that must align for our planet to support life is so extraordinarily improbable that it essentially points beyond random chance. From the fine-tuning of the physical constants to the specific conditions on Earth, these factors work together in such a precise way that the best explanation isn't blind luck—it's a Creator God who designed the universe with purpose. This scientific improbability reinforces the biblical truth that the world didn't form by accident, but by the intentional act of a wise and powerful God.”

Today on the Daily Nugget, Mike talks about the existence of sin and how it points us beyond ourselves. As humans, we want to see ourselves as good, so we often create our own standards—standards that are lower than God's—measuring ourselves by being nice neighbors or simply not worse than the next person. Yet deep down, we all recognize when we do something wrong, and that awareness shows there is a moral standard greater than us. That truth leads us to the meaning behind the colors of Christmas: red reminds us that Jesus took our sin and died for us, white reminds us that He makes us clean and pure, and green reminds us that because of Him, we are given new life and the chance to grow.”

“Today on the Daily Nugget, Mike talks about love—an emotion that shows us our world is more than just physical. Feelings like love, kindness, and joy point to something beyond what we can see and touch. These experiences remind us that there is a spiritual part of our world, and the best explanation for that spiritual reality is the existence of a loving, spiritual God who made us and gave us the ability to love.”

“Today on the Daily Nugget, Mike reflects on how God exists outside of time and how that truth makes the most sense of our linear experience of time and the universe's clear beginning. Time itself had a starting point, which points us toward a timeless Creator—One who isn't bound by seconds, minutes, or years, but who stands sovereign over past, present, and future. Understanding God as the One outside of time helps us recognize His greatness and the foundation for why anything exists at all.”

Today on the Daily Nugget, Mike focuses on how God provides for us as a clear reminder that He is real. Through personal stories of God's provision in his own life and in the life of the church over the years, we are reminded again and again that our God is sovereign, faithful, and deeply personal. Each story points to the truth that our loving Heavenly Father knows our needs, cares for His children, and delights in giving good gifts to those who trust Him.

Today on the Daily Nugget, Mike focuses on morality as a powerful reason to believe in God as part of the ongoing series on reasons to believe. We all live as if right and wrong truly exist—not just as personal opinions, but as real moral truths that apply to everyone. Yet if morality is only a human invention, then no action is ultimately good or evil, only preferred or disliked. The fact that we recognize true moral obligation points to a moral Lawgiver, giving strong evidence that God is real and that His truth is written on every human heart.

Today on the Daily Nugget, Mike focuses on Romans 1 and the powerful truth that every human being is created in the image of God and that all of creation clearly points to God's existence. Scripture teaches that God has made Himself known through what He has made, so no one will stand before Him and truthfully claim complete ignorance. Even those who say they don't believe have, deep down, likely wrestled with the reality of God. This should shape how we engage others—not with arrogance or argument, but with humility and love, knowing that God has already been at work in their hearts.

Today on the Daily Nugget, Mike highlights the reliability of the Scriptures as a powerful reason to believe. He talks about the historical accuracy of the Bible and shares the story of Lee Strobel—an investigative journalist who set out to expose the Bible's errors but instead found overwhelming evidence for its truth and ultimately embraced the faith. Mike also quotes respected history professor Lloyd Bridgeman, who once said the Bible is the most reliable book in history. Finally, he reflects on how God uses His Holy Scriptures to speak to us personally—because when we are spiritually alive, the Word of God becomes alive in us.

Today on the Daily Nugget, Mike focuses on the theme of answered prayer and how it strengthens our confidence in God's reality. He shares several stories of God responding in clear, specific ways—reminders that the Lord hears us, cares for us, and actively works in our lives. These answered prayers serve as powerful “proof” that God is very real and deeply involved with His people.

Today on the Daily Nugget, Mike continues our Advent Apologetics series by reflecting on the universal reality of sin. Drawing from Romans 1, he shares how none of us would believe apart from God's grace—and that our very faith is evidence of God's real and active work in our lives. At a deep level, we all know our own sinfulness, and that awareness points us to our need for a Savior and to the God who opens our eyes to truth.

Today on the Daily Nugget, Mike begins a new series on apologetics by looking at Peter's call to be prepared to give a defense for the hope that is within us (1 Peter 3:15). He emphasizes that one of the most powerful apologetics we possess is a transformed life—one marked by love, hope, and goodness—as others witness God's work in us. This not only strengthens our witness to the world, but also reminds our own hearts of the hope we have in Christ.

Today on the Daily Nugget, Mike continues our Thanksgiving focus by sharing from another section of The Greatest Treasure, titled “God Is Always Working for Good in the World.” Even when life feels heavy or confusing, we can give thanks because God is continually at work—redeeming, restoring, guiding, and weaving His purposes together for our ultimate good and His glory. Gratitude grows when we remember that behind every moment stands a faithful God who is always working for good.

Today on the Daily Nugget, Mike honors Thanksgiving by sharing a section from his book The Greatest Treasure in the chapter on the goodness of God titled “God Is a Good Father Who Gives Us What We Need.” As we slow down and reflect, we're reminded that our Father sees us, knows us, and provides exactly what is needed in every season of life. Thanksgiving grows deeper when we recognize that every good thing we enjoy flows from the wise, loving hands of our perfectly good Father.

Today on the Daily Nugget, Mike follows up on our theme of gratitude by reminding us that the greatest gift we should be thankful for is the gospel itself. Christ humbly came, lived in perfect obedience, took upon Himself the wrath we deserved, rose again, and through His work we have been adopted as children of God with His Spirit now living in us. Nothing pleases God more than when His people thank Him for Christ and all He has done.

Today on the Daily Nugget, Mike talks about gratitude and how Scripture consistently pairs thanksgiving with God's call to prayer. Drawing from five powerful passages (1 Thessalonians 5:16–18; Colossians 3:15–16; Colossians 4:2; John 15:4–5; Philippians 4:6–7), we see that whether we are walking through challenging seasons or celebrating great moments, God invites us to give thanks in all circumstances. Mike shares three ways gratitude shapes us: it fixes our eyes on God's sovereign character, it humbles us by reminding us we don't earn our blessings, and it lifts our vision beyond our present circumstances so we can celebrate God's goodness even in difficulty. He closes with a challenge—to thank God today for the countless blessings that are simply a taste of His unearned goodness in our lives.

Today on the Daily Nugget, Mike gives a brief summary of everything we've seen in the book of Romans, walking chapter by chapter through God's amazing plan of salvation. From our deep need to God's overflowing grace and the transformed life He calls us to live, Romans shows the fullness of the gospel. As we wrap up the journey, we declare with Paul: To God be the glory.

Today on the Daily Nugget, Mike concludes Romans 16 and reflects on how the study of theology should always lead us to doxology—worship, joy, and celebration in response to who God is. Paul ends this rich letter not with a final argument but with praise, reminding us that true theology doesn't puff us up; it lifts our eyes to God's greatness. As we study Him, the proper end is wonder, gratitude, and glory. Mike highlights how Paul could only finish Romans in one way—with heartfelt celebration of the God who saves, strengthens, and reveals His eternal purposes in Christ.

Today on the Daily Nugget, Mike continues in Romans 16:17–20 and focuses on the importance of knowing sound doctrine and guarding our lives and churches against false teachings. Paul warns believers to watch out for those who distort the gospel, and today we see those distortions show up as antinomianism (grace without obedience), legalism (obedience without grace), and gnosticism (secret knowledge over biblical truth). Sound doctrine protects us from these extremes and keeps our hearts anchored in the true gospel—so we can follow Jesus faithfully and help others do the same.

Today on the Daily Nugget, Mike begins Romans 16:1–16 and explores the vital role of women in the early church. He highlights Phoebe and several other women who profoundly impacted the Apostle Paul and contributed to the spread of the gospel. Mike also reflects on the women who have shaped his own life and ministry, showing how God has always used faithful, courageous women to strengthen His church and advance His mission.

Today on the Daily Nugget, Mike finishes Romans 15 and focuses on the call to be people of prayer—people who are willing to ask others to pray for us and people who trust deeply in the love and peace of God. Paul ends the chapter by inviting believers into his struggles through prayer and by expressing confidence that God will surround them with His love and fill them with His peace. As followers of Christ, we're reminded that prayer is both our lifeline and our shared ministry, drawing us closer to God and to one another.

Today on the Podcast, Mike brings a “Freebie Friday” edition, focusing on the transformed life of someone who follows Christ—how true worship shapes everything, including how we handle our money. Mike digs into Jesus' teaching that “where your treasure is, there your heart will be also,” showing how our financial priorities reveal what we truly value. As our hearts grow in worship, our generosity naturally follows, reflecting a life centered on Jesus and His kingdom.

Today on the Daily Nugget, Mike looks at Romans 15:22–33 and focuses on the generosity Paul encouraged among believers. Paul reminded the churches that just as they had received spiritual blessings from others, they also owed it to share their material blessings in return. This partnership between believers showed the unity of the body of Christ and helped advance the gospel. In the same way, we are called to support God's work generously , using our financial resources to bless others and further His mission around the world.

Today on the Daily Nugget, Mike looks at Romans 15:14–21, where we see the Apostle Paul's deep heart for the gospel. Paul made it his life's mission to lead people to Jesus so that they would glorify God in worship and honor Him through lives of obedience. His passion was that every believer would not only know Christ but also follow wherever He leads, living in a way that brings glory to His name. Paul reminds us that true ministry isn't about personal success—it's about helping others see and worship Jesus.

Today on the Daily Nugget, Mike looks at Romans 15:8–13 and focuses on worship through singing and praising the name of God. Paul reminds us that God included the Gentiles so that all nations could lift their voices in praise to Him. Worship isn't just a feeling—it's our response to who God is and what He's done. As believers, our songs of praise declare His greatness to the world, fulfilling our purpose to glorify Him and invite others to join in that worship.

Today on the Daily Nugget, Mike talks about the three key parts of Jesus' ministry with His disciples—worship, community, and renewal. Jesus regularly gathered with others in the synagogue for worship, showing the importance of being rooted in God's people. He also lived in close community, discipling His followers through shared life and daily experiences. And at key times, He led them on retreats for spiritual renewal, giving them space to rest and refocus on God's mission.

Today on the Daily Nugget, Mike talks about leadership—the joys and struggles of influencing, encouraging, and building up others toward a greater purpose. He reflects on how true leadership means serving others, helping them grow, and keeping the focus on something bigger than ourselves.

Today on the Daily Nugget, Mike dives into the first section of Romans 15, focusing on the importance of getting along with one another by thinking of others instead of ourselves. He reminds us that when we choose humility and unity, setting aside differences like race, gender, or social status, we bring glory to God through our harmony and shared purpose in Christ.

Today on the Daily Nugget, Mike finishes Romans 14, starting from verse 13, and talks about the “weaker brother” — focusing on issues like wine and food prohibitions. He shares how the core of being a Christian is learning to set aside our own desires for the sake of Christ and His people, choosing love and unity over personal freedom.

Today on the Daily Nugget, Mike looks at Romans 14:1–12 and focuses on giving each other the freedom to disagree on non-essentials while maintaining open dialogue. He reminds us to trust that fellow believers are seeking to live for the glory of the Lord, even when their convictions or practices differ from our own.

Today on the Daily Nugget, Mike focuses on Romans 13:14 and talks about how the key to living a godly life is keeping our focus on Jesus. As we fix our eyes on Him, we are changed from the inside out. The flesh is real and can be a constant challenge, but the power to overcome it is found in Christ alone.

Today on the Daily Nugget, Mike talks a little bit about Halloween and shares both perspectives. On one hand, we're called to run from evil because light has no fellowship with darkness. On the other hand, some see it as an opportunity to bring light into the darkness. Mike unpacks both views and encourages listeners to seek the Lord's wisdom in how they approach it.

Today on the Daily Nugget, Mike looks at Romans 13:11–end and talks about the challenges of the flesh and how our lives would look different if we truly believed Jesus could return tomorrow—or at any moment. He also shares a few thoughts on how this perspective shapes the way we approach things like Halloween and the choices we make each day.

Today on the Daily Nugget, Mike looks at Romans 13:8–10 and talks about the call to be different from the rest of the world. We're called to pursue loving our neighbors — to move beyond ourselves and live with generosity, giving freely to others as an expression of Christ's love in us.

Today on the Daily Nugget, Mike goes back to Romans 13:1–7 and talks again about why God calls us to submit to authority. We're to do it not just to keep order, but for eternal reasons—to avoid God's wrath and to follow the leading of our conscience. When we submit to authority, we're really submitting to God Himself, and we should do whatever that requires with a sincere heart.

Today on the Daily Nugget Podcast, Mike focuses on Romans 13:1–7, where Paul reminds us that all authority ultimately comes from God. Mike shares how God delegates His authority to different spheres of leadership — in government, the workplace, the church, and the home — and how our response to that authority reflects our trust in God's sovereign design. He emphasizes that we are called to submit in the gray areas where the Bible doesn't give direct commands, showing respect and humility toward those in leadership. However, when an authority's command directly contradicts God's Word, our loyalty must remain with the Lord — even if that means facing difficult consequences. This passage challenges us to live with wisdom, discernment, and a deep awareness that honoring rightful authority is one way we honor God Himself.

Today on the Daily Nugget Podcast, Mike shares a story that illustrates the powerful practice of returning trouble with blessing and loving others even in the midst of challenges. Building on the themes from Romans 12 that we've explored over the past week, he shows how living out God's call to genuine love, patience, and grace can transform difficult situations and relationships. This kind of love doesn't come naturally — it comes from the Holy Spirit working in us, teaching us to respond to hurt with kindness and to reflect Christ's heart in real life.