Podcasts about following god

Summary: In this episode, Dr. Michael Easley interviews Dr. S Jonathan Murphy—professor at Dallas Theological Seminary and new lead pastor at Stonebriar Community Church—about his remarkable upbringing and ministry journey. Dr. Murphy shares how he grew up immersed in a culturally Spanish world while rooted in a Northern Irish evangelical home. His early faith was shaped by the tight-knit church his father pastored and the missionary stories he heard as a child. By age seven, Jonathan had come to a personal faith in Christ, a decision that would shape his life's calling. After studying in Scotland, Dr. Murphy was unexpectedly led to Dallas Theological Seminary, where mentors like Dr. Howard Hendricks and Dr. Dwight Pentecost guided him toward pastoral ministry and eventually into academic training. He served faithfully as a local pastor in Northern Ireland before God called him back to Dallas to teach and eventually join the team at Stonebriar. Takeaways: Dr. S Jonathan Murphy grew up in a missionary household in Spain, learning faith through everyday family and church life. He transitioned from pastoring in Belfast to teaching and leading at Dallas Seminary, following God's unexpected direction. Chuck Swindoll personally mentored Dr. Murphy, preparing him over years to step into leadership at Stonebriar Community Church. Dr. Murphy believes discipleship should flow naturally from genuine community—not be limited to structured programs. Fidelity in ministry matters more than church size or reputation—quiet, steady faithfulness is the real success. The church should function as a spiritual family where people truly belong, support one another, and grow together. Links Mentioned: Authentic Influencer by Dr. S Jonathan Murphy  Dr. Murphy's website Pre-order The Story of God And Us by Dr. S Jonathan Murphy  Watch the highlights and full version of this interview on our Youtube channel. For more inContext interviews, click here.

Send us a textHow many times have you prayed and believed in big faith for others but when it has come to that one big thing for you or your family you've prayed in doubt... unsure if it is even possible? I get it because I've been there too. But friend, it's time to stir up your faith and set your eyes on how big our God is and what truly is possible with HIM! Start praying in faith that what you're believing for is possible!VersesHebrews 11:6Mark 11:24Matthew 21:22Mark 10:46-52Luke 8:43-48Hebrews 11:1Matthew 14:31All of Hebrews 11 lol WorshipAnother one is on the way

Stand firm in your faith! Following God's Word often puts you on the opposite side of popular opinion and belief. Discover how historical and biblical figures navigated opposition and how you can experience God's presence, power, and provision by choosing to live a life that honors Him.CHAPTERS:00:00 Intro00:38 Get Used To It02:44 Standing Firm in Beliefs03:36 Historical Examples of Opposition06:46 The Christian's Call to Stand Apart09:41 Living a Christlike Life13:29 Jesus: The Ultimate Example of Opposition19:34 Daniel's Stand in Exile24:16 Presence, Power, and Provision26:16 Standing Firm in Faith28:42 Living a Life of Conviction30:48 Courage and Strength in Faith34:07 The Eternal ChoiceTAKE A NEXT STEP:INTRODUCE YOURSELF

People suffer. Christians suffer. Following God does not take away our suffering—look at Jesus, look at Paul, look at, well, anyone. Everyone suffers…but we believers suffer differently.

You've got the habit trackers. The gym plan. The prayer routine.You're “doing all the right things.”But underneath it all… you're exhausted.In this episode, we talk about how self-improvement can quietly turn into self-punishment—and why God is inviting you to live at His pace, not the world's pressure. If your spiritual life feels more like a checklist than a relationship, this one's for you.We explore how hustle culture creeps into our faith, how to recognize the difference between discipline and shame, and how to rediscover peace in God's presence, not your performance.

OPENING ILLUSTRATION: Back in 1997 in Taipei they decided, as part of a celebration to do a massive game of tug of war. Let me ask you, how many of you were the kid that would let go of the rope when playing tug of war… Ha, just about every guy I know has done that. The people should have let go of the rope… That day they had 1,600 people join in the tug of rope. I can't even imagine that many people and how long the rope had to have been. Here's what I do know, that many people, tugging on one rope exerted 176,369 lbs of force on the rope… Here was the problem, no one thought to check how much force the rope 2” thick rope could actually handle, which was only 57,320 lbs. What happened was crazy. When all 1600 people began tugging all at once the rope severed and as it did, two men has their arms ripped from their bodies… It's not clear if the rope snapped back and severed the arms or if they were literally ripped off their bodies. Can you imagine standing there looking down at the ground and being like, “someone lost an arm” and then realizing it was you… Oh man, that's crazy! This morning we are going to begin to explore the tension that's created when we follow God by looking at the life and story of Abraham from scripture. I heard someone say once that Tension is not something you can typically get rid of, rather it's something you manage. my hope is to help you learn to manage the tension SCRIPTURE: Genesis 12:1-3 The Lord had said to Abram, “Go from your country, your people and your father's household to the land I will show you. 2 “I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing.[a] 3 I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse; and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you.”[b] It would be easy for me to preach an inspirational sermon about hearing God, believing God, and following God. I could preach and get yall fired up and talking about how Abraham didn't hesitate, he just followed God and how through Abe God will bless all peoples, some day Jesus will come through his lineage and you will sit in this room today because this guy thousands of years ago left everything. And while that sermon would be good and true, it would miss something. Did you notice what Abe was going to have to leave behind to follow the call of God? b His country, his people, and his family If you've ever done something significant like moving away from a place you grew up in you know this wasn't a quick easy thing for Abe. I'm preaching for the silence right now, and we don't know for sure. But you do know that his country is the land he grew up in, it's knowing all the honey holes for fishing, and knowing the best places to hunt. It's all the culture and customs he's ever known. His country represents everything he's comfortable with. and his people? Abe is leaving his friends, he's leaving his neighbors, he's leaving his aunts and uncles and relatives. He's leaving free babysitting and help with sick animals, he's leaving all his community Leaving his people is leaving his community and friends behind. and then to leave his father's household. There's no phones, there's no facetime. Abe is literally saying, “I may never see you again” to the people who are closest to him. Leaving his father's household is going into the world alone. Look, it would be easy for me to make this seem easy, but following God is not easy, it's full of tension. It would be easy to hide the fact that Abe will take things into his own hands because things didn't happen the way he thought they should. It would be easy to hide the doubt his wife had or how she laughed at God or how God gave promises to her too to confirm what he called Abe to do. Following God is not always easy and clear cut. Jesus said it this way: John 3:8 The wind blows wherever it pleases. You hear its sound, but you cannot tell where it comes from or where it is going. So it is with everyone born of the Spirit. So, I was thinking. How do I help you make sense of this without overwhelming you. On one side I want you to start listening to God and being brave enough to follow Him into the generosity of giving your life away like Abraham did b On the other side, I want to make sure it's God you're listening to… b 2 Guardrails as you learn to follow God into the unknown: b 1. Start with what's clear. God has already called you to certain things, have you mastered those? Love your neighbor, Love your enemy forgive as He forgave you be generous etc. ILLUSTRATION: When our kids were little and wanted to learn to ride a bike, I learned pretty quickly they needed to learn to balance before they learned peddling. We'd take them to the top of the driveway and have them put their feet down and just let it coast down to the bottom and then go again till that was easy. I'm not saying God won't call you to big things when you are a new christian. But I am saying if you are not faithful in these, why would would he send you big things? b If you haven't learned to look at life through the Kingdom lens of “everything I have is on loan to me, so I can give it away,” then why would He give you more? b Most of what God calls us to is small, it's in the small that He learns if you are able to handle much. (Luke 12:48) 2. Following God should never be a battering ram to use against others ILLUSTRATION: we've all met the person who claims God has told them to do something, the worst cases are the people who say God told them something that manipulates you into having to do something for them. “God told me you are supposed to come help us…” Maybe…. Maybe he did… But Abraham's story wasn't that clear cut God revealed it to his wife too (Genesis 18:1-15) God spoke it multiple times to Abraham (Genesis (Genesis 12, 15, 17) b God may be a God who is hard to nail down, but He is not a God of chaos. b It's ok to take time to confirm what God is calling you to and to make sure you are listening to Him and not just following your emotions… CLOSING ILLUSTRATION: People today are still following God's call like Abraham did. They are still leaving everything they know and giving everything they have to follow Him. My wife and I have done it several times (moving to Kentucky from Kansas was one of those for us). I want to introduce you to a young couple who is taking a massive step. Listen to their story [PLAY VIDEO OF THE OTTS] ------------- Genesis 12:1-3 The Lord had said to Abram, “Go from your country, your people and your father's household to the land I will show you. 2 “I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing.[a] 3 I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse; and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you.”[b] John 3:8 The wind blows wherever it pleases. You hear its sound, but you cannot tell where it comes from or where it is going. So it is with everyone born of the Spirit. Abraham is called out of a nation that he knew. A land, a people, all his friends. This may not seem like generosity, but let me tell you, generosity is the laying down of what you have to benefit another. Abraham is leaving everything he knows to bless the entire world. You and I are blessed because this man was faithful in what God called him to. Jesus will come through his line as a direct result of him being willing to follow God into this. God still calls people like this. My wife and I moved from KS to be here to minister at the call of God. Same with you, He's still looking for the faithful and to call you to something greater. The question is whether we will respond with generosity, lay down our life and our rights for the blessing of others. The secret is that in the laying down, God ends up blessing us as well… We'll see this in Abe. Interview or video with the Otts STUDY: It's easy to see Abram as some super human who this was easy for, but trapped in those words are lots of heartache, lots of stress, lots of questioning, etc.  "Go from your country, your people and your father's household to the land I will show you." Let's break it down.  Leave the people and customs you have always known - your country.  Leave the land, the way of life, the culture, leave it all... Leave your people - leave the friends you've grown up with, leave the ones you see at the well when you're watering your animals, leave it all. Leave your father's household.  Leave your family, walk away from those you love - no phone calls, no facetime, no returning.  Leave them and never see them again. this was not easy.  This was complete and utter trust - I wonder what Terrah said to Abe? "Son, this is not a smart move.." "Son, what are you going to do if you run out of food? or get attacked?  What will you do? The narrative that's easy to believe and that most of us believe is we are out there alone, but that's not true.  We forget God. We forget that He is moving and will move.   Following God is not an easy peasy thing, it's not straight forward and efficient like we think of efficiency.  following God is being willing to follow Him into the unknown. The tension Abe felt in following God was extreme.  It was not easy, it was a difficult thing.   Guardrails there are already things God has called you to do that are not special love your neighbor forgive be generous etc. Most things God calls us to are not massive - they are little things like, "hey, give that person some help" or "offer to watch their kids for free".  Jesus very clearly said that whoever is faithful in the little things will be given more This is not about baptizing your ideas and telling people it's from God.  Abe very much heard from God and God reconfirmed it multiple times, even with his wife Sarai having it confirmed to her.  This should never be a battering ram to another person.. What has God called you to be generous in that the tension of the unknown has kept you from being obedient? What's the worst thing that would happen if you listened to Him? Who do you need to invite into praying over this decision to make sure you are hearing from God (John says to test the spirits) ORDER: Starting generous tensions -looking at the tension of following God while still in the skin Abe and his call -would be easy to preach an inspirational sermon about following God -but thats not reality. What's hidden in these words are the nights spent deciding to follow God (the pain of separation from family, etc.) -what's hidden in that sermon is Abe doubting and not always listening to God, but taking things into his own hands - his wife laughing -what's hidden is that it was confirmed to his wife and when they finally saw the promise was YEARS later there is tension when following God - because God doesn't make things clean and cut perfect, He makes it wild and makes it where you need to stay close to Him, it's why we call it "following" So, practicals, what do you do if you feel God calling you to something big.. Guardrails there are already things God has called you to do that are not special love your neighbor forgive be generous etc. Most things God calls us to are not massive - they are little things like, "hey, give that person some help" or "offer to watch their kids for free".  Jesus very clearly said that whoever is faithful in the little things will be given more This is not about baptizing your ideas and telling people it's from God.  Abe very much heard from God and God reconfirmed it multiple times, even with his wife Sarai having it confirmed to her.  This should never be a battering ram to another person.. I want to introduce you to some friends who are following God in some big and scary ways... -introduce the Otts talk about their story...

All of us desire to follow God's calling on our lives - living on purpose and for purpose. However, the world and its enticements can leave us searching for fulfillment in all the wrong places.   Today's storyteller, Morgan Tyner, from our community group in Fairhope, Alabama, shares her journey of following what she thought was God's plan for her life as a social media influencer, only to find herself full of anxiety, fear, and numbness.  It was in her loneliness that God met Morgan through the simple act of breathing and led her in a totally different direction and purpose in life.  This story will leave you longing to inhale the Lord's presence and exhale the noise of the world.   IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL LEARN: - Your life is more about the legacy you leave than the happiness you experience. - God's calling on your life can change, but He never does. - The simple act of breathing mimics the name of God. Links:   Give to StoryTellers Live in honor of Morgan and our past storytellers!!   Become a Patreon Insider to access bonus content~ including an interview with Lindy Walker.  This is the first bonus episode of our “Meet the Hosts” series on Patreon!    Register for our Finding God in the Details: A Guide to Discerning His Voice and Discovering Your Story workshop being offered  in-person on August 20th; 10:00-12:45 PM CST Shop for our When God Shows Up Bible Study series   Check out all of our live speaking engagement opportunities on our website Sign up to receive StoryTellers Live's weekly newsletter for updates and details on our live gatherings!

Send us a textIf we aren't careful, our stuff, obligations and daily tasks can easily get in the way of making time with God and the things he wants us to sow into for the kingdom. In this episode we talk about ways to ruthlessly edit to go further, where we see this in scripture and how it can benefit you and your family. VersesHebrews 12:11 Corinthians 10:23Judges 7Luke 102 Corinthians 10:5WorshipGoodbye Yesterday EncouragementJillianwhinery.com

Following God's Voice by Pastor Dan DeBell

First Covenant Church

Mac Mullins preaches on drawing boundaries. When two deeply held priorities clash, we must decide which matters more—ours or God's. God's priorities, rooted in selfless love, always take precedence. Following God requires courage and the willingness to let go of everything else. Not everyone is ready for the boundaries of love God draws.  Preaching text: Luke 9:51-62

Tom and Ashley share their story of getting involved and prioritizing the way that God was leading them.https://theridgecc.com/groupshttps://theridgecc.com/serve__________We hope you found this hopeful and helpful. You can find out more about us, our locations, and what to expect if you join us in person at https://theridgecc.com__________In this video:__________Connect with Us:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheRidgeWIInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ridgecc/

“LEAVE TO SEE: When God Calls You Out, He's Calling You Higher” (Week 1)In this sermon, Pastor Joe Moss II introduces the series 'Leave to See,' emphasizing the importance of leaving behind comfort and routine to follow God's calling. He discusses the necessity of breaking free from the past, trusting God's voice, and understanding that promises often come before possession. The message encourages listeners to embrace change, step into their purpose, and rely on faith as they navigate their spiritual journey.TakeawaysGod is calling people out of comfort and routine.Following God's voice is essential for spiritual growth.Leaving the past is necessary to embrace the future.Clarity comes through obedience, not before it.The promise from God often precedes the possession.Faith requires stepping out without full visibility.You must leave what built you last to step into destiny.Trusting God means moving forward even when uncertain.You don't need to be perfect to follow God's call.God's plans for you are greater than your past.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Series: Leave to See02:21 The Call to Leave: Embracing Change04:21 Leaving the Familiar: The Journey of Faith06:55 Following the Voice: Trusting God's Guidance08:53 Promise Before Possession: The Nature of Faith10:59 Obedience and Clarity: Steps of Faith12:58 The Importance of Leaving: Moving Forward14:53 Conclusion: Embracing the Call to LeaveKeywordsfaith, calling, obedience, spiritual growth, leaving the past, trusting God, promise, purpose, church, guidance

Join us this week as we discuss the bombing of Iran and the war and potential of war that surrounds us. 

Following God's Call with Guest Mark Sheldrake

In this honest, joy-filled, refreshing conversation, Emma Mae sits with a dear college friend, Bella Cordero Fabrizio to talk about everything from post-grad, to dating, to picking up and unexpectedly moving across the country. Bella opens up about the reality that though walking with God is the greatest gift, it is not a smooth sailing journey. Find comfort and clarity as Emma Mae and Bella discuss what they have been learning about true peace as they walk in obedience to the Lord. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How can we be united in Heaven if we are so divided here on Earth? Are we asking God what to do and where to go before we take action? Following God's will for your life means being sensitive to His Spirit and making decisions based on the life He wants you to live. Follow God's canonical story for your life despite your free will.

In Exodus 32, the Israelite's create a golden calf — a striking moment that reveals how quickly we can turn away from God when things don't go our way. This story isn't just ancient history; it speaks directly to us today. In this video, we explore what it means to make a “convenient” version of God — one that fits our preferences rather than challenges us to grow. Are we worshiping God for who He truly is, or are we shaping Him into something more comfortable and controllable? It's time to confront our modern-day idols and return to the living God on His terms, not ours.

After 40 years of walking with the Lord, there are some deep truths that only time and faithfulness can reveal. In this powerful message, Pastor Joe reflect on the key lessons learned through decades of following God—lessons that can reshape your walk with Him today.

NEVER FORGET God's commands and His teachings!!!!!! Proverbs 3 instructs us to store the Word in our hearts, THEN our natural overflow will be full of abundance

What would it look like to fully surrender to God? Pastor Josh Leake shares a message about four things that God has called us to surrender to Him. 

What would it look like to fully surrender to God? Pastor Josh Leake shares a message about four things that God has called us to surrender to Him. 

Pastor Bob took us through chapters 3-5 of Song of Solomon this week, exploring God's design for love and marriage. He reminded us that marriage is a sacred covenant reflecting God's faithful love and emphasized the importance of soul-level connection beyond just physical attraction.The big takeaway? Following God's blueprint for relationships leads to a flourishing life, even through life's imperfections. An encouraging reminder that God's ways really are best.

Understanding Abraham's mission to sacrifice Isaac; Altars of the ancients; Symbolism; Messages in stories; Gregory stories; Why Jesus was hated; Warnings in the bible; Rulers exercising authority; Chief Executive Officers; Cities of blood - cauldrons - flesh pots; Lot and Abraham; Truth vs opinion; Following God's lead; Bondage of city-states; "Church" (ekklesia = called out) in the wilderness; Duties of Levites; Learning to be "Israel"; Walking in faith; Melchizedek; Righteousness; Temptation; Following what is right; Government of God; Lot in the cities; "Moses"; "Egypt"; Philistines; Leaven; Circumcision; Creeds; Double standards; Convictions; "Trinity"?; gods many; Workers of iniquity; Eating of the Tree of Knowledge; Self-justified injustice; Lot as judge; Living in fear; Killing Christ; Understanding the bible; Replacement sacrifice; Sharing; Smoking furnace?; Receivers of Holy Spirit; Significance of Abraham; Canaan; Importance of Sarah; Gen 23:1; City of four?; Hebron = association or to bind; Bondage today?; Fear of leaving the city; Freedom?; One purse; Gathering like the Early Church; Organizing as Christ commanded; Tithing according to service; Wanting to see the light; Being watchful; Balaam and Nicolaitans; Spirit of Christ; Humility; Lamentation; Burying Sarah; Sons of "Heth" - chet-tav; from chet-tav-tav = people of faith; Cause/effect; Double-tav = more faith vs some faith; Responsibility of liberty under God; Sureties for trillions; What are you missing?; House of Abraham; Unkept oaths; Job 6:21; Washing feet; Not taking gifts; "The Way" of Christianity; Why seek the kingdom; Sacrifice; Righteousness; Eating of the Tree of Life; Saving others; Your choices; "Corban"; Making God's word to none effect; Volunteerism; "Abraham House" organization; Peace through power?; Jer 6:10; What the LORD has to say; Making covenants; Desire for benefits; Good Samaritan?; Covetous practices make you merchandise; Welfare snares; Take back your responsibilities!

Are you familiar with the passage of scripture in Romans 8:14? It reads “For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.” God's plan for his children in locating his will for their lives is that they would learn to be led by his Spirit. It is vitally important for every Christian to learn to develop their sensitivity God's leadership.

If you've ever felt too broken, your past too messy, or that you're not the kind of person God can use, this message is for you.In this message, Not Business As Usual, Pastor Levi Lusko examines The Chosen's powerful portrayal of Jesus meeting the Samaritan woman, revealing why this wasn't just another day - it was the FIRST time Jesus directly told someone He was the Messiah.From The Chosen Season 1, Episode 8 "I Am He" - witness Jesus's revolutionary encounter at Jacob's well in Samaria. This wasn't an ordinary moment - this was Jesus intentionally choosing the most unlikely person to receive the most extraordinary revelation.Scripture Focus: John 4:7-42Watch as Jesus breaks every social norm to reach one broken woman, transforming her from outcast to evangelist in a single conversation. Discover why He chose HER to be the first to hear "I Am He" - the Messiah.4 Lies This Message Destroys:Religion can solve the problem in my life. My past is so bad, there's no way God can fix me.I need to be an expert before God can use me.Following God will never be confusing.ABOUT THE SERIES:Is that in the Bible? That's the question we're asking in this five-week series. We're taking cinematic moments from The Chosen and pressing in—opening the Word, digging deep, and letting Scripture speak for itself. Together, with teachings captured from the set of The Chosen, we'll wrestle with the tension, lean into the humanity, and see the life of Jesus through fresh eyes.ABOUT FRESH LIFE:Fresh Life Church was pioneered by Pastors Levi and Jennie Lusko in 2007. We exist to see those stranded in sin find life and liberty in Jesus Christ. Today Fresh Life's ministry impacts people with the radical, life-changing message of Jesus' grace, spilling across Montana, Oregon, Utah, Wyoming, and Idaho… and beyond.ABOUT THE CHOSEN:The Chosen is a groundbreaking historical drama based on the life of Jesus, seen through the eyes of those who knew him.

In order to be fruitful for God, it is not enough to simply realize that we are called to service, nor even to discover what that call is. We must give God time to produce fruit through us, and that means we must learn to be consistent in what we do and persevere in doing it over the long haul. But realizing this truth is much easier than living it out. There are many forces that are both within us and outside us that undermine our best intentions. Today's lesson will look at the first few of ten different forces which make it hard for us to endure in the areas of service to which God calls us.  To receive a free copy of Dr. Steve Schell's newest book Study Verse by Verse: Hebrews, email us at info@lifelessonspublishing.com and ask for your copy! Also check out our website at lifelessonspublishing.com for additional resources for pastors and leaders. We have recorded classes and other materials offered at no charge.  

1. Play the Long Game2. Schedule More Time Celebrating Life and Myself3. Teaching Me Things and Helping Me Be in the Right Place, at the Right TimeRelated Resources:"The Exquisite Gift of the Son" - https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2020/10/26holland?lang=engMore From Me: My Weekly Newsletter - https://dallincandland.substack.com/"God is Trying to Talk to Me" (My First Poetry Book!) -  https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CN5WS9C8?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_dp_38CAR76S3MTH5M4JMJFHMy YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@dallincandlandTime Stamps:13:23 - God Has Set This Life Up So You Will Gloriously16:50 - When God Himself Shows Up in Your Life19:26 - Telling Yourself Things That Are Truthful20:00 - Following God's Lead in Helping Myself Grow29:00 - Knowing Clearly What You Are NOT Going to Do53:28 - Nobody Else Can be MeQuotes:14:39 - "There's no tax for dreaming."28:30 - "If it's built into the game I will do it."Support the show

God's Strength Is Stronger | Cody McQueen--Even when the way God leads us isn't the easiest, we learn that we can trust who he is and follow Him.--Notes

What more appropriate response can there be of Jesus giving His life for us than us giving our lives back to Jesus? If we want Jesus, we come and give our life to HIm. We are talking about the call of God on our lives for the next few episodes. The first call is to a wedding. That's the call of salvation. But the second call is to service. It may be difficult for a person to know where to start serving God, so this episode focuses on where to begin. To receive a free copy of Dr. Steve Schell's newest book Study Verse by Verse: Hebrews, email us at info@lifelessonspublishing.com and ask for your copy at no charge!  Also check out our website at lifelessonspublishing.com for additional resources for pastors and leaders. We have recorded classes and other materials offered at no charge.    

Why is it so hard for high achievers to follow God?In this episode, we break down 3 honest reasons why people who are driven, successful, and constantly pushing for more often struggle to surrender to Christ. From pride and control to the fear of weakness, high achievers face unique spiritual roadblocks. But the good news? God isn't calling us to abandon excellence—He's calling us to let Him define it.This episode will challenge your assumptions and invite you into a deeper trust that doesn't depend on performance—but on grace.

Have you ever played the comparison game?  Thought that you weren't enough?  Here is some good news.  God doesn't do that.  He isn't impressed with how much you have but rather just wants you to be faithful with what you have been given! Join Jon this week as he discusses this topic.  If you would like to hear it more in depth then head to hartlandbible.org/sermons/ and select the June 8 sermon. As always, if you wish to discuss this topic in greater detail you may reach out to Jon directly at jon@christianoutdoors.org.    

Following God's Word will change your life.

Matthew Faye Terry was unemployed and uncertain—until God called him to go to China. What happened next became a life- changing ongoing mission and a short film-in-the-making. What began as a leap of faith to teach English became a front-row seat to God's work in the lives of his college students who had never heard the Gospel. That season of mission work forever changed Matthew's life—and planted the seed for a powerful story he's now telling through his screenplay, English Corner. Matthew Faye Terry He holds a Masters Degree from Loyola University and taught English in China at Guǎngdōng Peizheng College. He has followers on Wēixìn, Twitter, Facebook and through his website. He and his lovely wife Ming Chu are active members of Moody Church.Website/SupportLinkedInEnglish CornerChildren of GodDevotional

Following God's Word will change your life.

Song of Solomon 1:16 - 2:7Introduction* Recording from the mountains of Kauai - a place of beauty and peace* This is sermon #4 in the Song of Solomon series* Topic: "Crazy Love" - the passionate, movie-like love we see in ScriptureI. What Crazy Love Looks Like (1:16-2:3)A. Beautiful and Delightful (1:16-17)* "You are beautiful, my beloved. Truly delightful"* Their "couch is green" - outdoor intimacy in God's creation* Building a life together with quality materials (cedar, pine)* Crazy love says "I want to start a life with you, not just be roommates"B. Standing Out Among Others (2:1-3)* She: "I am a rose of Sharon, a lily of the valley" (I'm ordinary)* He: "You are a lily among brambles" (You stand out to me)* She: "He is like an apple tree among forest trees" (He stands out to me)* This is the "only eyes for each other" kind of love we long forC. Protection and Provision (2:3)* "I sat in his shadow" - finding protection and provision* "His fruit was sweet" - enjoying his care and leadership* Crazy love includes a man's commitment to protect and provideII. Why We Miss This Kind of Love (2:4-6)A. We Look for Joy in the Wrong Places (2:4)* "He brought me to his banqueting house" - the place of joy and celebration* We seek joy in money, power, fame instead of relationship with Christ* We fly different banners over our lives instead of His banner of loveB. We Choose Pleasure Over Covenant (2:5-6)* "I am sick with love" - she's lovesick but chooses to wait* "Sustain me with raisins" - being practical instead of giving in to desire* We go straight to pleasure instead of building on covenant* Same with our relationship with God - we want feelings without the gospel's hard truthsC. We Don't See the Full Picture (2:6)* "His left hand under my head, his right hand embraces me"* She's thinking about their whole life together - spiritual, physical, financial* We focus on just one aspect instead of the complete person/relationshipIII. How to Get Crazy Love Right (2:7)A. The Power Source* "By the gazelles and does of the field" (sounds like "Lord of Hosts" and "God Almighty" in Hebrew)* Only God's power can help us do relationships His wayB. God's Timing* "Do not stir up or awaken love until it pleases"* Don't force it too early, don't delay it too long* Wait for God's perfect timing, just as Jesus didC. Following God's Design* Marriage as covenant, not just roommates* Obedience to God's design brings abundance and protection* Like driving within the lane lines - stepping outside God's intention is dangerousConclusion* God offers us both the "safe choice" and the "wild" passionate love* Jesus is both the responsible provider and the passionate lover of our souls* True crazy love is only possible through covenant relationship* The earthly marriage is just a hint of our eternal marriage with ChristApplication Questions* What stood out to you in this message?* Are you looking for joy in God's banqueting house or somewhere else?* How can you better see the "full picture" in your relationships?* Are you waiting for God's timing or trying to force/delay love?RetryAmake a podcast episode description from thisEditAmen Podcast Episode DescriptionEpisode Title: Crazy Love: What the Bible Says About Passionate Romance | Song of Solomon Series #4Description:What if God wants you to experience the kind of crazy, passionate love you see in movies - not despite being a Christian, but because of it?In this episode recorded from the beautiful mountains of Kauai, we dive into Song of Solomon 1:16-2:7 to discover what "crazy love" actually looks like in Scripture. You might be surprised to learn that the Bible doesn't just endorse safe, practical relationships - it celebrates the kind of dizzying, movie-like romance that makes you want to build a whole life with someone.In this episode, we explore:* Why biblical love is both wild AND wise (it's not either/or!)* The difference between building a marriage vs. just being roommates* Why we miss out on crazy love (hint: it's about covenant, not just feelings)* How to know when it's the right time to "awaken love"* What separate bedrooms and delayed intimacy reveal about our hearts* Why God's design for relationships leads to the deepest satisfactionWe also discuss how our relationship with Christ mirrors this passionate love - He's both the "safe choice" and the "wild" lover of our souls who went to crazy lengths to pursue us.Whether you're single, dating, engaged, or married, this episode will challenge you to see God's design for love in a fresh way and help you understand why doing relationships His way leads to the kind of romance movies try to capture.Recorded on location in the mountains of Kauai

Song of Solomon 1:16 - 2:7* Recording from the mountains of Kauai - a place of beauty and peace* This is sermon #4 in the Song of Solomon series* Topic: "Crazy Love" - the passionate, movie-like love we see in ScriptureI. What Crazy Love Looks Like (1:16-2:3)A. Beautiful and Delightful (1:16-17)* "You are beautiful, my beloved. Truly delightful"* Their "couch is green" - outdoor intimacy in God's creation* Building a life together with quality materials (cedar, pine)* Crazy love says "I want to start a life with you, not just be roommates"B. Standing Out Among Others (2:1-3)* She: "I am a rose of Sharon, a lily of the valley" (I'm ordinary)* He: "You are a lily among brambles" (You stand out to me)* She: "He is like an apple tree among forest trees" (He stands out to me)* This is the "only eyes for each other" kind of love we long forC. Protection and Provision (2:3)* "I sat in his shadow" - finding protection and provision* "His fruit was sweet" - enjoying his care and leadership* Crazy love includes a man's commitment to protect and provideII. Why We Miss This Kind of Love (2:4-6)A. We Look for Joy in the Wrong Places (2:4)* "He brought me to his banqueting house" - the place of joy and celebration* We seek joy in money, power, fame instead of relationship with Christ* We fly different banners over our lives instead of His banner of loveB. We Choose Pleasure Over Covenant (2:5-6)* "I am sick with love" - she's lovesick but chooses to wait* "Sustain me with raisins" - being practical instead of giving in to desire* We go straight to pleasure instead of building on covenant* Same with our relationship with God - we want feelings without the gospel's hard truthsC. We Don't See the Full Picture (2:6)* "His left hand under my head, his right hand embraces me"* She's thinking about their whole life together - spiritual, physical, financial* We focus on just one aspect instead of the complete person/relationshipIII. How to Get Crazy Love Right (2:7)A. The Power Source* "By the gazelles and does of the field" (sounds like "Lord of Hosts" and "God Almighty" in Hebrew)* Only God's power can help us do relationships His wayB. God's Timing* "Do not stir up or awaken love until it pleases"* Don't force it too early, don't delay it too long* Wait for God's perfect timing, just as Jesus didC. Following God's Design* Marriage as covenant, not just roommates* Obedience to God's design brings abundance and protection* Like driving within the lane lines - stepping outside God's intention is dangerousConclusion* God offers us both the "safe choice" and the "wild" passionate love* Jesus is both the responsible provider and the passionate lover of our souls* True crazy love is only possible through covenant relationship* The earthly marriage is just a hint of our eternal marriage with ChristApplication Questions* What stood out to you in this message?* Are you looking for joy in God's banqueting house or somewhere else?* How can you better see the "full picture" in your relationships?* Are you waiting for God's timing or trying to force/delay love?RetryAmake a podcast episode description from thisEditAmen Podcast Episode DescriptionEpisode Title: Crazy Love: What the Bible Says About Passionate Romance | Song of Solomon Series #4Description:What if God wants you to experience the kind of crazy, passionate love you see in movies - not despite being a Christian, but because of it?In this episode recorded from the beautiful mountains of Kauai, we dive into Song of Solomon 1:16-2:7 to discover what "crazy love" actually looks like in Scripture. You might be surprised to learn that the Bible doesn't just endorse safe, practical relationships - it celebrates the kind of dizzying, movie-like romance that makes you want to build a whole life with someone.In this episode, we explore:* Why biblical love is both wild AND wise (it's not either/or!)* The difference between building a marriage vs. just being roommates* Why we miss out on crazy love (hint: it's about covenant, not just feelings)* How to know when it's the right time to "awaken love"* What separate bedrooms and delayed intimacy reveal about our hearts* Why God's design for relationships leads to the deepest satisfactionWe also discuss how our relationship with Christ mirrors this passionate love - He's both the "safe choice" and the "wild" lover of our souls who went to crazy lengths to pursue us.Whether you're single, dating, engaged, or married, this episode will challenge you to see God's design for love in a fresh way and help you understand why doing relationships His way leads to the kind of romance movies try to capture.Recorded on location in the mountains of Kauai

Our lives are meant to be lived with clear purpose and direction. God doesn't waste anything. He doesn't waste any part of your life. If you feel that you are somehow on hold and being wasted, you simply don't understand what He is doing. The reality is God has much for us to do. There is a call, a purpose and a plan for your life. This episode focuses on understanding the call that is on our lives. 

This week, Jess Knowles shares her experience with adhering to God's plan in her life instead of following her own.

Closing out National Bike Month with a young man from Auburn who just completed "Bo Bikes Bama" for the 4th time. We have more on that event (started by the famous Bo Jackson) and (5:15) avid cyclist Jared Bowles shares about the importance of doing challenges for causes, this one for storm relief victims in Alabama. It was instilled in him early in life about lessons of discipline - for all of us. Make sure to subscribe to "Run The Race" to hear stories like his of fitness and faith. (13:40) This single father his fitness journey from swimming at 11 years old to now triathlons. What has his training looked like for his Half Ironmans? He breaks down the numbers for swimming, biking, running...plus being a healthy example for his 4-year-old son. (22:01) Rebelling at a younger age, Jared's son being born was a wakeup call that got him back into church and exercise! The ups and downs of his health journey included a failed full Ironman, a snow skiing injury, and learning to lean on the Lord more. What does he reflect on about God while running and cycling? (29:21) The challenges of having his own single family residential construction company and being a single dad means finding balance...and waking up earlier than he wants to bike or run. (33:16) Jared shares a little more of his cycling story, the costs involved with this hobby, what the average bike ride looks like for him...his recent Marine Corps Marathon experience, and aiming for a full Ironman in the future. Thanks for listening to the #RunTheRace podcast! Also, write a quick review about it, on Apple podcasts. For more info and all past episodes, go to www.wtvm.com/podcast/.

Written and presented by Jeremy Lallier.Time has a way of getting away from us. There will always be something competing for our attention. Following God requires budgeting time for Him.Read Online: https://lifehopeandtruth.com/life/christian-living/christian-time-management/budget-your-time-for-spiritual-growth/

Pastor Wayne Van Gelderen shares biblical truth that will bring hope and comfort in these uncertain days. May we draw closer to God through this time and impact those around us for eternity. https://fallsbaptist.org https://baptistcollege.org https://www.theegeneration.org https://ontovictorypress.com If you'd like to support this ministry - https://fallsbaptist.org/give/

In this raw and powerful follow-up to his first appearance, Cody Bobay returns to The Impossible Life podcast to go deeper than ever before. You may know Cody as a U.S. Navy veteran, actor, author of Soulcon, and an emerging action star in the upcoming film Savage—but in this episode, we explore the spiritual battles behind the public victories. This is not a highlight reel. It's a deep dive into what it means to follow Jesus when the lights go out. Cody opens up about walking through one of the darkest seasons of his life—7.5 months of intense depression—all while staying faithful to God's call. He explains how this experience wasn't rooted in sin, emptiness, or a lack of faith, but instead was a refining fire that God used to break and rebuild him for greater purpose. Topics Covered:A First Look at Cody's new book Soulcon Warrior 365

On my free day in Paris during a visit a few years ago, I had some time to roam around the famed city by myself before meeting a friend by the Eiffel Tower for dinner. All was fine until my phone’s battery died. I didn’t have a map, so I wasn’t sure where I was going, but this city girl didn’t panic. I just continued to walk along the Seine River and kept my eyes on the towering Eiffel Tower. My plan worked until I got closer to the landmark that somehow disappeared behind the surrounding buildings. I was astonished that such a large structure could be hidden in plain sight! I finally realized I needed help, so I asked for directions and found my friend. Life can be so unpredictable. As we face obstacles and challenges in life, we can ask God for help and direction. That helps us not to get lost along our journey or be tempted to take detours or to quit. Even when things seem hard or seem confusing, we can turn to God for guidance. In Proverbs 3:5-6, Solomon encourages his readers by telling them to “trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” As we seek God’s wisdom through prayer and reading the Bible, He’ll guide us. Let’s continue to trust Him and follow His lead.

In this episode of the Compelled Podcast, Emma Mae speaks directly to those navigating difficult transitions—whether graduating, entering a new season, or simply stepping into the unknown. With Psalm 143 as her anchor, Emma offers three gentle yet powerful encouragements: yield to the Spirit's leading, don't be afraid to plan, and step boldly into new community. Through personal stories, Scripture, and tender wisdom, Emma reminds us that while seasons shift, our purpose remains—to live compelled by the love of Christ. Let this episode be a steadying voice in the midst of your change. - Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices