Podcasts about church pastor

Simple Faith: Faith in Five with Rusty George is a daily podcast designed to refocus your heart on Jesus—one moment at a time. In just five minutes a day, Rusty explores who Jesus is, why He matters, and how simple faith can transform everyday life. Whether you're new to faith or have followed Jesus for years, these short, meaningful episodes offer clarity, encouragement, and truth you can carry with you all day. Simple. Honest. Centered on Christ.

Pastor Terry shares a timely message on becoming a Future Church—renewing our minds in God's Word and refusing to fear a rapidly changing world. This is a call to redeem culture through the Holy Spirit, live as salt and light in “Babylon,” and respond with hearts that say, “Speak Lord, for your servant is listening.”

Simple Faith: Faith in Five with Rusty George is a daily podcast designed to refocus your heart on Jesus—one moment at a time. In just five minutes a day, Rusty explores who Jesus is, why He matters, and how simple faith can transform everyday life. Whether you're new to faith or have followed Jesus for years, these short, meaningful episodes offer clarity, encouragement, and truth you can carry with you all day. Simple. Honest. Centered on Christ.

Simple Faith: Faith in Five with Rusty George is a daily podcast designed to refocus your heart on Jesus—one moment at a time. In just five minutes a day, Rusty explores who Jesus is, why He matters, and how simple faith can transform everyday life. Whether you're new to faith or have followed Jesus for years, these short, meaningful episodes offer clarity, encouragement, and truth you can carry with you all day. Simple. Honest. Centered on Christ.

Simple Faith: Faith in Five with Rusty George is a daily podcast designed to refocus your heart on Jesus—one moment at a time. In just five minutes a day, Rusty explores who Jesus is, why He matters, and how simple faith can transform everyday life. Whether you're new to faith or have followed Jesus for years, these short, meaningful episodes offer clarity, encouragement, and truth you can carry with you all day. Simple. Honest. Centered on Christ.

The Parker Byrd Show with Opendoor Church Pastor Aaron Kennedy by Pirate Radio

Simple Faith: Faith in Five with Rusty George is a daily podcast designed to refocus your heart on Jesus—one moment at a time. In just five minutes a day, Rusty explores who Jesus is, why He matters, and how simple faith can transform everyday life. Whether you're new to faith or have followed Jesus for years, these short, meaningful episodes offer clarity, encouragement, and truth you can carry with you all day. Simple. Honest. Centered on Christ.

Simple Faith: Faith in Five with Rusty George is a daily podcast designed to refocus your heart on Jesus—one moment at a time. In just five minutes a day, Rusty explores who Jesus is, why He matters, and how simple faith can transform everyday life. Whether you're new to faith or have followed Jesus for years, these short, meaningful episodes offer clarity, encouragement, and truth you can carry with you all day. Simple. Honest. Centered on Christ.

Pastor Mark SmithJanuary 11, 2026

Sermon Notes:CLICK HERE

Simple Faith: Faith in Five with Rusty George is a daily podcast designed to refocus your heart on Jesus—one moment at a time. In just five minutes a day, Rusty explores who Jesus is, why He matters, and how simple faith can transform everyday life. Whether you're new to faith or have followed Jesus for years, these short, meaningful episodes offer clarity, encouragement, and truth you can carry with you all day. Simple. Honest. Centered on Christ.

Simple Faith: Faith in Five with Rusty George is a daily podcast designed to refocus your heart on Jesus—one moment at a time. In just five minutes a day, Rusty explores who Jesus is, why He matters, and how simple faith can transform everyday life. Whether you're new to faith or have followed Jesus for years, these short, meaningful episodes offer clarity, encouragement, and truth you can carry with you all day. Simple. Honest. Centered on Christ.

Simple Faith: Faith in Five with Rusty George is a daily podcast designed to refocus your heart on Jesus—one moment at a time. In just five minutes a day, Rusty explores who Jesus is, why He matters, and how simple faith can transform everyday life. Whether you're new to faith or have followed Jesus for years, these short, meaningful episodes offer clarity, encouragement, and truth you can carry with you all day. Simple. Honest. Centered on Christ.

Simple Faith: Faith in Five with Rusty George is a daily podcast designed to refocus your heart on Jesus—one moment at a time. In just five minutes a day, Rusty explores who Jesus is, why He matters, and how simple faith can transform everyday life. Whether you're new to faith or have followed Jesus for years, these short, meaningful episodes offer clarity, encouragement, and truth you can carry with you all day. Simple. Honest. Centered on Christ.

Have a few minutes on your drive to work or picking up the kids from school? Tune in for some quick encouragement and wisdom from Rusty as he kicks off Simple Faith in 5.

The Real Church // Pastor Andrews by Central Baptist Church

Sunday Morning Service - 1/4/25Church websitehttps://www.biblebaptistcc.com/Support our Ministryhttps://app.pineapplepayments.com/HostedPaymentForm/HostedPaymentPage2.aspx?hash=iWUmR5OrxHT6wGMKmTXpUEui/6CNujhngmTaVzYvWY4%3DListen and Subscribe to our Podcasthttps://anchor.fm/bbcpreachingpodcast

12/28/25 - The Book of Acts Pt 27: No Spirit, No Church - Pastor Jim Baker by Zion Christian Fellowship

Numb is Not Normal Speaker: Michael Shockley, ReCreate Church Scripture: Ephesians 4:19 Episode Summary In this New Year's 2026 message, Pastor Michael shares the story of Ashlyn Blocker, a girl who can't feel pain due to a rare condition, to illustrate spiritual numbness. Through Paul's letter to the Ephesians, we discover how constant exposure to sin desensitizes our conscience until we stop feeling conviction - and that's when we're in the most danger. The good news: God doesn't shame numb hearts, He heals them. Key Points - Like physical pain warns us of danger, spiritual discomfort alerts us when something is wrong - Ephesian culture normalized immorality through idol worship and occult practices until people were "past feeling" - Modern culture dulls our conscience through constant media exposure, distraction, and redefining moral boundaries - Being "given over to lewdness" means losing the ability to say no to ourselves, not freedom but brake lines cut - Spiritual numbness produces insatiable craving, not contentment Main Takeaway When you stop feeling, you start losing yourself. Spiritual numbness isn't a sign we're okay - it means our warning system has stopped working. When guilt disappears and conviction fades, that's when we're in the most danger. But God doesn't shame callused hearts; He softens them and gives us new, living hearts. Memorable Quotes - "When you stop feeling, you start losing yourself." - "The worst stage of sin isn't when it hurts - it's when it stops hurting." - "When God molds our hearts, it's like His Fingerprints are on us. But when our hearts resist God, those fingerprints wear off." - "What Paul called being given over to sensuality, our culture calls 'being true to yourself.'" - "Once you normalize one messed-up behavior, it becomes easier and faster to normalize the next thing." - "That pain is not the enemy. It's the message that you need to pay attention." - "When you stop feeling, you start losing yourself. When Jesus renews your heart, you start finding yourself." Reflection Question Has your conscience been trying to get your attention about something, and instead of listening, have you been trying to numb it through scrolling, consuming, or distraction? Tune in to hear the powerful story of Ashlyn Blocker, who can't feel pain, why everything has been weird since Harambe, and how ancient Ephesus eerily mirrors modern American culture. Connect & Give Learn more about ReCreate Church at www.recreatechurch.org Give online easily and securely through Tithe.ly

Join us as Pastor Alex brings us today's message. To learn more about NLC Greenbrier- TEXT "Greenbrier" TO: 88000 to connect with us!

Send us a textGrowing PainsPastor Jerrid FletcherDecember 28, 2025“Growing Pains” is a year-end call to interpret the hard parts of this year with spiritual clarity instead of emotional conclusions. Pastor Jerrid connects the journey from vulnerability (Jesus in Gethsemane) and disappointment (David's honest prayers) to the shared reality we all felt in 2025: growth often meets us where life still feels unfinished. Using the language of seasons from Ecclesiastes 3, the message reframes growing pains as sacred indicators of transition—evidence that God is moving us from who we were into who we're becoming. Finally, Pastor Jerrid anchors the sermon in Job, reminding us that obedience doesn't exempt us from pain, and that God often doesn't give explanations—He gives Himself. Job's perspective is enlarged, his soul is anchored in the Lord, and his life becomes “considerable”—a faith God can point to. The closing challenge is simple and weighty: will we leave this year bitter or better, guarded or grounded, resistant or resilient—and can God say of us, “Have you considered my servant…”?Discussion Questions Looking back on 2025, where did you feel “growing pains” the most—spiritually, emotionally, mentally, or physically—and what did that season expose about what you depend on?1. Pastor Jerrid asked: “Did you grow bitter or become better? guarded or grounded? resistant or resilient?”Which one best describes your response this year, and why?2. Ecclesiastes 3 says seasons are appointed. What “season” do you believe you were in this year (building, tearing down, waiting, healing, planting, uprooting), and how does naming it change your perspective?3. Job didn't get explanations—he got an encounter. Where are you currently demanding a “why,” and what would it look like to anchor your faith in the Who instead?

Recorded live from Hays State Prison in August 2025.Thank you for joining us at Crosspoint City Church online today! We are one church in multiple locations and we exist to relentlessly pursue those far from God to help them know and follow Jesus.To help support this mission and work, visit https://mycpcc.com/give To learn more about all of our locations or what is coming up at Crosspoint City, check out https://www.crosspointcity.com/

Senior Pastor - Tommy Geyser

Who Can You Trust? Speaker: Michael Shockley, ReCreate Church Scripture: Daniel 7:13-14 Episode Summary In part 4 of our Christmas 2025 series, Pastor Michael presents a hilarious father-daughter skit about a rigged board game to illustrate how humans abuse power. Through Daniel's prophetic vision, we see that earthly empires are like beasts, but Jesus is different - He's the King who earned our trust by arriving in a stable and going to the Cross. The baby in the manger is the cosmic King whose empire will never end. Key Points - Daniel's vision shows four great empires (Babylon, Persia, Greece, Rome) as beasts representing human power - "Son of Man" is Jesus' most used title for Himself - it shows His humanity, humility, and deity - Jesus didn't seize power like earthly rulers - He gave it up, proving He can be trusted with authority - The Ancient of Days (God the Father) presents the entire universe as a kingdom to Jesus - Every earthly empire eventually fails, but Jesus' kingdom is everlasting and will never be destroyed Main Takeaway Jesus is The King We Can Trust. In a world where authority figures abuse power and let us down, Jesus came in weakness to show He could be trusted with power. He didn't demand trust - He earned it by laying down His life while we were still a mess. Memorable Quotes - "Jesus is The King We Can Trust." - "Rome ruled by force; Jesus rules by faith. Rome demanded loyalty; Jesus proved Himself worthy of trust." - "The only Person Who can be trusted with ultimate authority is The One Who Is Willing to Sacrifice Himself for others." - "People always think the answer to our problems is a bigger, better beast. In truth, there is only One King we can fully trust. And His Name Is Jesus." - "Jesus did not come armed for battle. He came as a baby. He came in weakness to show He could be trusted with power." - "Jesus doesn't demand your trust. He earns it. He arrived in a stable, and went to the Cross. That's a King you can trust." Reflection Question If you've been burned by authority figures who let you down, are you ready to trust the One King who came in weakness to prove He could be trusted with power? Tune in to hear the entertaining "Reindeer Games" skit about a daughter who keeps changing the rules, and discover why comparing Jesus to becoming a mosquito helps us understand the Incarnation. Connect & Give Learn more about ReCreate Church at www.recreatechurch.org Give online easily and securely through Tithe.ly

Join us beginning this January as we explore how to keep your faith simple in just 5 minutes a day. Not over complicated, simple faith is a great way to start each day. And don't forget to bring a friend!Emmanuel: God with Us in Every MomentOn this Christmas Eve, the traditional hustle slows, offering a moment of quiet reflection. Pastor Rusty takes us on an evocative journey through the scriptures, illustrating God's unwavering presence from Genesis to the birth of Christ in a humble manger. It highlights that God's promise to be 'with us' is alive, not just in historical events but right now, amidst our darkness, ordinariness, and uncertainties. This touching narrative reminds us that Emmanuel, 'God with us,' is a continual promise, even in our everyday struggles and triumphs. As we celebrate the light brought by hope, peace, joy, and love, we're reassured that we are never truly alone. Merry Christmas.00:00 A Quiet Christmas Eve00:26 The Promise of God's Presence01:08 God's Pursuit Through History03:04 The Birth of Jesus05:20 Jesus' Life and Empathy06:20 Emmanuel in Our Lives Today08:24 The Light of Christmas09:52 Final Reflections and Blessings

Jesus Redeems Pain Speaker: Michael Shockley, ReCreate Church Scripture: Isaiah 53:3-5 Episode Summary In part 3 of our Christmas 2025 series, Pastor Michael shares the story of young Matthias witnessing a birth in a stable and discovering how pain can bring life. Through Isaiah 53's prophecy about the suffering Messiah, we see that Jesus came not just to be born, but to endure three kinds of pain on our behalf: rejection, responsibility, and redemption. Christmas celebrates that God stepped into our suffering to transform it. Key Points - Jesus endured the pain of rejection - despised and actively unwanted by those He came to save - Jesus bore the pain of responsibility - carrying our grief, sorrow, and burdens that weren't His own - Jesus suffered the pain of redemption - wounded for our sins as our Substitute on the Cross - The Shockley family places a long iron spike on their tree first to remember why Jesus came Main Takeaway Jesus redeems pain. He doesn't minimize it or shame us for it. He steps into our suffering, takes what was meant for us, and transforms it into forgiveness, freedom, hope, and new life. Our pain is not the end and doesn't have to define us - it can lead us to Jesus. Memorable Quotes - "Jesus redeems pain." - "Isaiah 53 is no Hallmark card. It's a promise written in blood." - "People are willing to tolerate the 'nice teacher' version of Jesus, but they reject King Jesus." - "Jesus didn't suffer for His own sins - He didn't have any. He suffered for the very people who rejected Him, and for all of us." - "The deepest wounds don't need stitches - they need grace. The worst pain doesn't need more explanation - it needs redemption." - "Jesus Is God Who Became Man. He took on our wounds, our grief, and our guilt. And He didn't flinch." - "God refuses to waste suffering. The same God Who brought Resurrection out of the pain of The Cross can bring life out of what you're going through." Reflection Question What pain are you carrying that you need to give to Jesus, trusting Him to redeem it rather than trying to carry it alone? Tune in to hear the moving story of Matthias witnessing Jesus' birth from outside the stable, and discover the powerful Shockley family tradition of placing a nail on their Christmas tree first. Connect & Give Learn more about ReCreate Church at www.recreatechurch.org Give online easily and securely through Tithe.ly

In this conversation, Pastor Joe Moss II explores the profound implications of the church's closure during the pandemic. He poses the question of what it would mean if church stopped altogether, examining the impact on individuals, pastors, and organizations. The discussion shifts towards understanding the true essence of church as a community of believers rather than a physical building, emphasizing the need for a personal relationship with God over routine practices. Ultimately, the conversation serves as an invitation to return to a deeper faith and connection with God, encouraging listeners to embody the church in their daily lives.TakeawaysThe pandemic revealed how many relied on church for their relationship with God.Pastors faced identity crises when church doors closed.God was refining shepherds, not removing them.The church is meant to be held together by spirit, not structure.The real church is about people, not buildings.Intimacy with God is more important than routine.The church can be mobile and exist in everyday life.God is calling believers back to heart-level faith.Worship should be a lifestyle, not limited to services.Jesus invites us to return to our first love.

Thank you for joining us for today's worship service! As we approach Christmas, Pastor Chris brings our attention to the visit by the angel Gabriel to Mary, who was the first person to hear of the coming of Jesus. In Gabriel's discussion with Mary, we find four statements of good news that are true for us just as they were true for Mary: God is with us, we do not need to be afraid, Christ's kingdom has no end, and nothing is impossible with God. If you prayed to make Jesus your Lord today, we want to rejoice with you! If you would want someone to pray with you, we are eager to do so! If you would like more information about our church, we're want to share. Please text the word "NEXT" to 407-77 so we can engage with you. For more information about our in-person Sunday morning services, visit https://horizonwestchurch.com. You can also learn more about our midweek events at https://horizonwestchurch.com/events.

Recorded February 23, 2025 - Sunday Evening Service

Join us beginning this January as we explore how to keep your faith simple in just 5 minutes a day. Not over complicated, simple faith is a great way to start each day. And don't forget to bring a friend!Welcome to Simple Christmas with Rusty George!Rediscovering JoyIn this heartfelt episode, we explore the compelling difference between joy and happiness, and why many of us have forgotten what real joy feels like. Drawing from personal anecdotes, biblical references, and practical advice, we reveal the four biggest joy thieves: comparison, expectations, busyness, and guilt. Discover how to tap into enduring joy through gratitude, celebrating small wins, and making a conscious choice to be joyful, regardless of life's circumstances. Join us as we light the joy candle in this week's advent, reminding ourselves that joy flows from a deeper source—Christ—and is accessible to everyone. Next week, we'll delve into the profound subject of how love came down. Keep it simple, and embrace joy.00:00 Introduction: The Illusion of Christmas Joy00:41 Rediscovering True Joy01:36 The Four Joy Thieves04:05 Finding Joy in the Bible06:15 Practical Steps to Rediscover Joy08:35 Conclusion: Choosing JoyAnd don't forget to check out https://PastorRustyGeorge.com for more great sermons, podcasts, and tools to keep your faith simple.

The Son Who Climbed The Mountain Speaker: Michael Shockley, ReCreate Church Scripture: Genesis 22 Episode Summary In part 2 of our Christmas 2025 series, Pastor Michael tells the story of Isaac - the original "Son Who Climbed The Mountain" - and reveals how it points directly to Jesus. Abraham's willingness to sacrifice his promised son on Mount Moriah foreshadows God's sacrifice of His own Son on the same mountain centuries later. This isn't just an Old Testament story - it's a Christmas story about faith, provision, and the ultimate Substitute. Key Points - Abraham waited 25 years for the promised son Isaac, learning to trust God's timing - God tested Abraham by asking him to sacrifice Isaac, but was teaching that He provides the sacrifice - Abraham believed God could raise Isaac from the dead to keep both the command and the promise - Mount Moriah, where Isaac was spared, is the same location where Jesus died centuries later - Isaac lived because a ram died in his place; we live forever because Jesus died in our place Main Takeaway Faith climbs the mountain before it sees the miracle. Abraham trusted God enough to take the first step up Mount Moriah, and God provided a substitute sacrifice. We trust Jesus before we understand every detail, and then we receive the miracle of forgiveness, freedom, and new life. Memorable Quotes - "Faith climbs the mountain before it sees the miracle." - "God will show up in your life. Often when you aren't looking for Him, and rarely when it's convenient." - "God doesn't want to take Abraham's son; He wants to give His Own Son." - "Abraham answered with a line that echoes through the centuries: 'My son, God Himself will provide the lamb.'" - "Before the Manger, there was the Mountain. Before the swaddling clothes, there was sacrificial wood on a son's back." - "God wasn't teaching Abraham to sacrifice his son; He was teaching that HE Provides The Sacrifice." - "Isaac lived because a ram died in his place. We can live forever because Jesus died in our place." Reflection Question What mountain is God asking you to climb in faith before you see the miracle? Tune in to hear the powerful parallel between Isaac and Jesus, why Die Hard is definitely a Christmas movie, and how a 99-year-old man's laughter became the name of the promised son. Connect & Give Learn more about ReCreate Church at www.recreatechurch.org Give online easily and securely through Tithe.ly

Join us beginning this January as we explore how to keep your faith simple in just 5 minutes a day. Not over complicated, simple faith is a great way to start each day. And don't forget to bring a friend!Life can often feel overwhelming with constant notifications, the demands of work, and family obligations. Many of us equate peace with having no problems, but life doesn't work that way. Control over circumstances doesn't bring peace; it brings chaos. The peace offered by the world is conditional and fragile, but the peace Jesus offers transcends circumstances. Jesus' peace, referred to as 'shalom,' represents wholeness, completeness, and harmony. This peace doesn't eliminate chaos but sustains us within it. To experience this peace, one must surrender control, stay present, and seek God's presence. The peace of God guards our hearts and minds, acting as a sentinel against anxiety and fear. As we light the second Advent candle, the candle of peace, we remember that Jesus came to be our peace in imperfect situations.00:00 The Chaos of Modern Life00:50 Redefining Peace02:32 Jesus' Promise of Peace03:38 The Meaning of Shalom04:24 Experiencing Peace in the Storm05:19 Practices to Cultivate Peace07:42 Conclusion: Embracing Peace

The First Christmas Tree Speaker: Michael Shockley, ReCreate Church Scripture: Genesis 3:1-15 In part 1 of our Christmas 2025 series, Pastor Michael explores the surprising connection between Christmas trees and the Garden of Eden. Through historical research, he reveals that Christmas trees aren't pagan but originated from medieval "Paradise Trees" used in Adam and Eve plays. The real first Christmas tree was in Eden, where God made the first promise of a Savior who would crush the serpent's head. Key Points - Christmas trees originated from medieval Paradise Trees used in biblical plays, not pagan traditions - The serpent in Eden was Satan himself, whispering the same lies he still whispers today - Genesis 3:15 contains the first promise of Jesus - the "Protoevangelium" or "First Gospel" - Jesus would be wounded (crucified) but would crush Satan's head in permanent defeat - The deadly power of sin began with a tree in Eden and ended with the tree of the Cross Main Takeaway From the first sin, God promised a Savior. The Christmas story doesn't start in Bethlehem - it starts in Eden with God's original commitment to crush evil and redeem humanity. There is no John 3:16 without Genesis 3:15. Memorable Quotes - "From the first sin, God promised a Savior." - "The first Christmas Tree goes all the way back to the Garden of Eden. And it wasn't decorated with a star. It was decorated with a snake." - "God's not interested in holding us back from good things; only from things that will ultimately be destructive." - "What Jesus offers is not a better kind of religion. Jesus does the work, because we can't save ourselves." - "Christmas isn't just a Baby in a manger. It's God declaring war on every lie that has ever strangled your heart." - "The deadly power of sin began with a tree and ended with a tree. It began with the Tree in the Garden, and ended with The Cross of Christ." Reflection Question What lies is the serpent still whispering to you, and will you choose to believe God's promise of a Savior instead? Tune in to hear the fascinating historical origins of Christmas trees, why aluminum foil stars and Bigfoot ornaments belong on trees, and how Genesis 3:15 is the first promise of Christmas ever given. Connect & Give Learn more about ReCreate Church at www.recreatechurch.org Give online easily and securely through Tithe.ly

Welcome to Simple Christmas with Rusty George!The Purpose of Waiting: Discovering Hope in the Waiting RoomIn this episode, Pastor Rusty George explores the discomfort and frustration commonly associated with waiting. Drawing parallels from everyday life and biblical examples, he delves into how waiting is a crucial part of our faith journey. He illustrates how figures like Abraham, Joseph, and David underwent prolonged periods of waiting that ultimately deepened their trust, refined their character, and redirected their futures. Pastor George emphasizes that waiting is not wasted time but a period of divine preparation. He offers practical advice on maintaining hope through trust in God, staying connected to community, and serving others. The episode ties in the significance of the Advent season, highlighting the 'candle of hope' as a symbol of confident expectation based on God's proven track record. As we navigate our own periods of waiting, Pastor George reassures us that we are not alone; God is with us, filling us with joy and peace.00:00 Introduction: The Agony of Waiting00:27 The Biblical Perspective on Waiting01:18 Modern Culture's Impatience01:45 Personal Struggles and Lessons Learned02:29 Biblical Examples of Waiting03:32 God's Purpose in the Waiting05:56 Practical Steps to Embrace Waiting08:36 Conclusion: Hope in the Waiting

The Habit of Happy People Speaker: Michael Shockley, ReCreate Church Scripture: 1 Thessalonians 5:18 Episode Summary In this second Thanksgiving week message, Pastor Michael vulnerably shares his recent struggle with ingratitude and stress that led to chest pain and an ER visit. Through 1 Thessalonians 5:18, he discovers that the command to "give thanks in everything" isn't about pretending life is okay - it's about trusting God no matter what happens. Gratitude isn't just better than ingratitude; it's what transforms our hearts and lives. Key Points - "Give thanks IN everything" means being thankful no matter what happens, not FOR everything that happens - God doesn't cause painful things, but He can bring good out of anything that happens - Thankfulness is God's will for us because it's genuinely good for our physical, emotional, and spiritual health - The real question: Do we worship God, or do we worship the idea that God owes us an easy life? Main Takeaway It's not happy people who are thankful, but thankful people who are happy. Gratitude changes our perspective, strengthens our faith, improves our health, and transforms our lives. When we choose thankfulness even in difficulty, we tap into a greater truth than our circumstances. Memorable Quotes - "It's not happy people who are thankful, but thankful people who are happy." - "Blessings whisper and problems shout." - "With God, the bad stuff is more than just bad; it gets turned into a plot twist that ultimately works out to a greater ending." - "Thankfulness helps us frame everything we experience as being in The Hands of a God Who Loves Us." - "If you think God owes you an easy life, then you're always one traffic jam away from a ruined day." - "Do we really worship God, or do we worship the idea that God owes us an easy life?" - "Happiness is having Jesus and being thankful." Reflection Question Are you living like God owes you an easy life, or are you choosing gratitude even when circumstances are difficult? Tune in to hear Pastor Michael's honest confession about his ER visit, why pumpkin pie counts as breakfast, and how the elders' prayer transformed his perspective on stress and gratitude. Connect & Give Learn more about ReCreate Church at www.recreatechurch.org Give online easily and securely through Tithe.ly

Support the showThis podcast is brought to you free of charge through the donations of generous people.If this content blessed you and you would like to help us reach more people, please take a few minutes to rate our podcast and leave us a review.If you'd like to support us financially, you can make donations hereIf you'd like to learn more about us you can visit our website.If you'd like to contact us directly follow this link. If you enjoyed this teaching, Pastor Jacob has another conversation-style podcast that we think you'd really enjoy. Check it out here!

Rediscovering Advent: Light in the DarknessIn this episode, journey back to the fourth century and explore the origins of Advent. Discover how early church leaders grappled with preparing for Christ's coming amidst societal turmoil and how their profound question of 'how to prepare for God becoming human' still resonates today. Understand the staggering impact of depression, anxiety, and political polarization in 2025 and how Isaiah's promise of light offers hope. Learn about the roots and significance of Advent as a season of active waiting, not just for Christ's birth, but for His promised return. Watch and be inspired to embrace Advent as a time of acknowledging darkness, practicing active anticipation, and keeping Christ as the blazing light in our modern world.00:00 Setting the Scene: The Fourth Century Church00:54 Modern Struggles and Ancient Questions02:06 Isaiah's Prophecy: Light in Darkness03:31 The Messiah's Unexpected Arrival04:57 The Early Church's Waiting Game06:06 The Birth of Advent07:03 Advent's Relevance Today08:38 Practical Steps for Advent09:39 The Promise of Light

Trust The Source Speaker: Michael Shockley, ReCreate Church Scripture: Luke 17:11-19 Episode Summary In this Thanksgiving 2025 message, Pastor Michael takes us through the chaotic "Grocery Store Gauntlet" to illustrate how we scramble for resources while forgetting the Source behind them all. Through Jesus' healing of ten lepers, we discover that only one returned to thank Him - and he received not just physical healing but spiritual wholeness. This Thanksgiving, don't just enjoy the resources; return to the Source. Key Points - We get caught up in resources (things we use) and forget the Source (where they come from) - Jesus healed ten lepers as they walked in faith, showing that healing often comes as we move forward with God - Ten men received physical healing, but only one - a Samaritan outsider - returned to thank Jesus - The one who returned got healed on the inside, not just the outside Main Takeaway USE the Resource, TRUST the Source. Every good thing in our lives - money, jobs, health, family, material possessions - are resources to use wisely and be thankful for. But our true security doesn't come from resources that can run out; it comes from Jesus, the Source who will never run out on us. Memorable Quotes - "USE the RESOURCE, TRUST the SOURCE." - "Thankfulness doesn't start in your cart — it starts in your heart." - "If your gratitude depends on your resources, it's always at risk; but if your gratitude is based in THE Source, it doesn't matter how much or how little you have." - "So much of the time, healing comes AS WE GO. The Lord brings change to our lives AS WE WALK WITH HIM." - "They all recognized the RESOURCE, but only one recognized THE SOURCE. Ten men used the resource, but only one returned to The Source. They got healed on the outside. He got healed on the inside." - "Resources can run out. Jesus Is THE SOURCE of everything good, and He will never run out on you." Reflection Question Are you living like the nine who used the blessing and moved on, or like the one who returned to thank the Source of all blessings? Tune in to hear Pastor Michael's hilarious "Grocery Store Gauntlet" story featuring grandmothers battling over cranberry sauce, a dad lost in the chaos, and the world's greatest uncle fighting for dinner rolls. Connect & Give Learn more about ReCreate Church at www.recreatechurch.org Give online easily and securely through Tithe.ly

Send us a textThe Value of DisappointmentPastor Jerrid Fletcher November 23, 2025The Value in Dealing with Disappointment” walks us through what happens in the gap between what we expected and what God allowed, and how to meet God honestly in that space. Jerrid shares a raw season of stacked grief—seven family deaths in six months—and the quiet, unspoken disappointment that formed when heaven seemed silent, and God didn't move the way he'd hoped. From there, the message names different “flavors” of disappointment (circumstantial, from others, from ourselves, and with God) and makes an important distinction between being disappointed with God's decisions and being disappointed in God's character. Using Psalm 13 as an anchor, we see David model biblical lament as a healthy way to deal with disappointment: he begins with honest complaint (“How long, Lord?”), moves into petition (“Look on me and answer”), and ends in trust (“But I trust in Your unfailing love”) even though nothing on the outside has changed. The message challenges us to reject myths like “If I ignore it, it'll go away” or “If I was more spiritual, I wouldn't feel this,” and instead to name our pain, turn it into conversation with God, and surrender the outcome to Him. Ultimately, it calls us to believe that disappointment is real,but it doesn't get to define who God is—that healing begins when we bring our honest hurt to Him and let disappointment become a doorway to deeper faith, not a wall between us and His heart.Discussion Questions 1. Where have you seen disappointment show up in your own life this year—circumstantially, through others, through yourself, or with God—and how have you tended to handle it (ignore it, control it, stuff it, or bring it to God)?2. The message distinguished between being disappointed with God (what He allowed) and being disappointed in God (who He is). Which one do you relate to more right now, and what does that reveal about the state of your trust in Him?3. Psalm 13 shows a clear movement: complaint → petition → trust. Which part of that process is hardest for you and why—being honest about your hurt, asking God specifically for help, or choosing to trust Him before anything changes?4. One line from the message was, “If it stays vague, it stays powerful.” What specific disappointment might God be inviting you to name clearly so He can begin to heal it, and what would it look like to turn that into a simple, honest prayer this week?

Action Church exists to REACH people where they are and CONNECT them to everything God has for their life. If you gave your life to Christ today, we would love to partner alongside you to walk you through next steps. Please let us know about your decision here: theactionchurch.com/card If you want be a part of the mission of Action Church to REACH people where they are and CONNECT them to everything God has for their life, you can be a part by worshiping God with your giving through Action Church by visiting: theactionchurch.com/give Stay Connected - Find a Location and Service Time Website: theactionchurch.com Instagram: instagram.com/theactionchurch Facebook: facebook.com/theactionchurch

Not the Boss of Me Speaker: Michael Shockley, ReCreate Church Scripture: 1 John 3:4-7 Episode Summary In part 8 of our 1 John series, Pastor Michael tells the story of Timmy the Tiny, Terrible T-Rex to illustrate our resistance to authority - especially God's. We think refusing to listen to God proves our independence, but it actually proves we're enslaved to our own desires. Through 1 John's teaching, we discover that real freedom isn't doing whatever we want, but wanting what is right because Jesus has set our hearts free. Key Points - Sin isn't just breaking rules - it's living like God's authority doesn't apply to us - Jesus came to remove both the guilt of sin (through forgiveness) and the power of sin (through freedom) - Abiding in Christ means staying connected like a branch to a vine, dependent on Him for everything - Practicing righteousness means your overall life pattern shows you're being shaped by Jesus - Jesus is the standard of righteousness, not comparison with other people Main Takeaway Living like you don't have to listen to God doesn't prove you are independent - it proves you are enslaved to your drives and desires. Real freedom isn't doing whatever you want; it's wanting what is right because your heart has been set free. Memorable Quotes - "Living like you don't have to listen to God doesn't prove you are independent — it proves you are enslaved." - "Sin isn't just messing up. It's saying, 'God is not the boss of me.'" - "Jesus didn't show up just to teach about sin, or even just to expose sin. He came to REMOVE sin." - "Abiding in Jesus isn't really about trying harder. It's about being dependent on Him for everything." - "Real freedom isn't doing whatever you want — real freedom is wanting what is RIGHT because your heart has been set free." - "People reject God's standards of right and wrong because they think it puts them in chains. In truth, it enslaves you to something else." Reflection Question Instead of saying "You can't tell me what to do," do you have the guts and humility to say "God, change me" - and then receive what comes? Tune in to hear about Timmy the Terrible T-Rex, Pastor Michael's legendary childhood mud puddle adventure, and why practicing righteousness is like practicing a musical instrument. Connect & Give Learn more about ReCreate Church at www.recreatechurch.org Give online easily and securely through Tithe.ly

In this week's episode, Rusty sits down with counselor and coach Leah A. Ondiek to break down EMDR and mindfulness in a clear, accessible way. Leah explains how these practices help us process stress, calm our minds, and stay grounded in our faith—without overwhelming terminology.If you're curious about mental health tools that actually make a daily difference, this episode offers simple steps and encouraging insight.

Lord, Bless my Church | Pastor Joshua Redding by Highlight Church

Core Strength - Core Values: Love Never Fails | Abundant Life Church | Pastor Sean Thomas

Pain is something we all experience — but what if hope can still be found right in the middle of it? In this episode of Simple Faith, Rusty George sits down with Brooke Martin, author, speaker, and storyteller, to talk about how faith can anchor us through life's hardest seasons.Brooke opens up about her personal journey through loss, healing, and rediscovering joy — and how God met her in the midst of heartbreak. Together, she and Rusty explore how simple faith can bring extraordinary peace when life doesn't go as planned.