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The world tells men that leadership is about being in charge, having authority, and getting others to serve you. But Jesus flipped that script upside down. He showed us that true leadership isn't about being the loudest voice or the one with the most power—it's about being the first to serve. A godly man doesn't climb the ladder to stand above others; he kneels down to lift others up. Today we're talking about leading through service.Our springboard for today's discussion is:“For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” — Mark 10:45 (ESV)Jesus redefined greatness. While the disciples argued about who would be the greatest, Jesus pointed to a different standard—the servant. Leadership in the kingdom of God is not about control; it's about sacrifice. It's not about status; it's about humility.Leading through service begins in your home. It means listening to your wife instead of just demanding your way. It means helping with the little things, even when you're tired. It means investing time in your children, not just providing for them financially but being present in their lives.It also extends to the church and community. A godly leader doesn't wait for recognition—he steps into needs quietly, faithfully, and with love. He isn't looking to be applauded; he's looking to reflect Christ.Brother, this kind of leadership requires strength. It takes humility to put others first. It takes courage to lower yourself. But here's the reward: when you lead through service, you point people straight to Jesus. Your family will trust you more deeply. Your community will respect you more genuinely. And heaven will applaud your obedience.The culture says, “Be served.” Christ says, “Serve.” And that's the model we're called to follow.Question of the Day:How are you currently leading through service—and where is God calling you to lay down pride and pick up humility?Mini Call to Action:Do one act of service today that costs you something—your time, your comfort, or your pride. Do it in secret, just for God's glory.Prayer:Lord, make me a servant-leader. Teach me to love through sacrifice, to lead through humility, and to point my family and others to You through the way I serve.Let's Get To Work!Great leaders don't demand to be served—they roll up their sleeves and serve first. That's kingdom manhood.Thanks for reading My Reasons To Believe! This post is public so feel free to share it.My Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe

The world tells men that leadership is about being in charge, having authority, and getting others to serve you. But Jesus flipped that script upside down. He showed us that true leadership isn't about being the loudest voice or the one with the most power—it's about being the first to serve. A godly man doesn't climb the ladder to stand above others; he kneels down to lift others up. Today we're talking about leading through service.Our springboard for today's discussion is:“For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” — Mark 10:45 (ESV)Jesus redefined greatness. While the disciples argued about who would be the greatest, Jesus pointed to a different standard—the servant. Leadership in the kingdom of God is not about control; it's about sacrifice. It's not about status; it's about humility.Leading through service begins in your home. It means listening to your wife instead of just demanding your way. It means helping with the little things, even when you're tired. It means investing time in your children, not just providing for them financially but being present in their lives.It also extends to the church and community. A godly leader doesn't wait for recognition—he steps into needs quietly, faithfully, and with love. He isn't looking to be applauded; he's looking to reflect Christ.Brother, this kind of leadership requires strength. It takes humility to put others first. It takes courage to lower yourself. But here's the reward: when you lead through service, you point people straight to Jesus. Your family will trust you more deeply. Your community will respect you more genuinely. And heaven will applaud your obedience.The culture says, “Be served.” Christ says, “Serve.” And that's the model we're called to follow.Question of the Day:How are you currently leading through service—and where is God calling you to lay down pride and pick up humility?Mini Call to Action:Do one act of service today that costs you something—your time, your comfort, or your pride. Do it in secret, just for God's glory.Prayer:Lord, make me a servant-leader. Teach me to love through sacrifice, to lead through humility, and to point my family and others to You through the way I serve.Let's Get To Work!Great leaders don't demand to be served—they roll up their sleeves and serve first. That's kingdom manhood.Thanks for reading My Reasons To Believe! This post is public so feel free to share it.My Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe

Raising sons isn't just about teaching them how to throw a ball, change a tire, or land a job. Those things matter, but they're not eternal. What matters most is passing down faith. Sons don't just inherit your last name—they inherit your example. They're watching how you treat their mother, how you handle stress, how you walk with God when life gets hard. And the truth is, you'll either raise sons who follow Christ—or sons who follow the world. Today, we're talking about the sacred calling of raising godly sons.Our springboard for today's discussion is:“Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.” — Proverbs 22:6 (ESV)Training isn't passive—it's intentional. You can't raise godly sons by accident. It means showing them what it looks like to pursue Christ day in and day out.Your sons need to see you pray. Not just at the dinner table, but in the trenches of life. They need to see you opening the Word, not just carrying it on Sundays. They need to see how a godly man repents, how he asks forgiveness, how he leans on God in weakness.It's not about being perfect—it's about being present. Your sons don't need you flawless; they need you faithful. They don't need you to have all the answers; they need you to point them to the One who does.And here's the truth, Brother: raising godly sons takes courage. The culture will do everything it can to disciple them if you don't. But you have the authority, the responsibility, and the privilege to shape their hearts for God. Your words, your example, and your prayers will echo in their lives long after you're gone.Remember this—sons often become what their fathers model. If you want them to love Jesus, show them what it looks like to be a man after His heart.Question of the Day:What kind of spiritual legacy are you leaving for your sons—and what will they remember most about your faith?Mini Call to Action:Take time today to pray over your son—or if you don't have a son, pray over a younger man in your circle. Speak life, blessing, and faith over him.Prayer:Father, help me to raise my sons to know and love You. Teach me to model faith, integrity, and humility in front of them. Let my example point them toward Christ and away from the world.Let's Get To Work!Sons don't just inherit your name—they inherit your example. Leave them an inheritance that lasts for eternity.Thanks for reading My Reasons To Believe! This post is public so feel free to share it.My Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe

Raising sons isn't just about teaching them how to throw a ball, change a tire, or land a job. Those things matter, but they're not eternal. What matters most is passing down faith. Sons don't just inherit your last name—they inherit your example. They're watching how you treat their mother, how you handle stress, how you walk with God when life gets hard. And the truth is, you'll either raise sons who follow Christ—or sons who follow the world. Today, we're talking about the sacred calling of raising godly sons.Our springboard for today's discussion is:“Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.” — Proverbs 22:6 (ESV)Training isn't passive—it's intentional. You can't raise godly sons by accident. It means showing them what it looks like to pursue Christ day in and day out.Your sons need to see you pray. Not just at the dinner table, but in the trenches of life. They need to see you opening the Word, not just carrying it on Sundays. They need to see how a godly man repents, how he asks forgiveness, how he leans on God in weakness.It's not about being perfect—it's about being present. Your sons don't need you flawless; they need you faithful. They don't need you to have all the answers; they need you to point them to the One who does.And here's the truth, Brother: raising godly sons takes courage. The culture will do everything it can to disciple them if you don't. But you have the authority, the responsibility, and the privilege to shape their hearts for God. Your words, your example, and your prayers will echo in their lives long after you're gone.Remember this—sons often become what their fathers model. If you want them to love Jesus, show them what it looks like to be a man after His heart.Question of the Day:What kind of spiritual legacy are you leaving for your sons—and what will they remember most about your faith?Mini Call to Action:Take time today to pray over your son—or if you don't have a son, pray over a younger man in your circle. Speak life, blessing, and faith over him.Prayer:Father, help me to raise my sons to know and love You. Teach me to model faith, integrity, and humility in front of them. Let my example point them toward Christ and away from the world.Let's Get To Work!Sons don't just inherit your name—they inherit your example. Leave them an inheritance that lasts for eternity.Thanks for reading My Reasons To Believe! This post is public so feel free to share it.My Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe

One of the greatest lies the enemy whispers to men is, “You're better off alone.” He wants you isolated, convinced you don't need anyone, and ashamed of your struggles. But Scripture tells us something different: we are stronger together. God designed brotherhood and accountability as weapons against sin, weakness, and discouragement. Real men don't fight their battles alone—they link arms with brothers who sharpen them, challenge them, and call them higher.Our springboard for today's discussion is:“Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.” — Proverbs 27:17 (ESV)Sharpening isn't a gentle process—it involves friction. Sparks fly. But without it, iron grows dull. And the same is true for men. Without brothers who will challenge us, confront us, and encourage us, we drift into weakness.Brotherhood means more than casual friendship. It means intentional connection with men who share your pursuit of Christ. Men who will tell you the truth, not just what you want to hear. Men who will pray for you, not gossip about you. Men who will pull you back when you're drifting and push you forward when you're hesitating.Accountability often gets a bad reputation—like it's only about confessing sin. But accountability is much bigger than that. It's about growth. It's about having men in your life who ask the hard questions, who celebrate your victories, and who won't let you settle for less than God's best.The culture says, “Handle your business alone.” God says, “Two are better than one.” The enemy trembles when men of God lock shields together, because he knows isolated men are vulnerable—but united men are unstoppable.Question of the Day:Do you have brothers in your life who sharpen you—or are you trying to fight your battles alone?Mini Call to Action:Reach out to one brother today. Ask him how he's really doing—and then let him ask you the same. Sharpen each other with honesty.Prayer:Lord, thank You for the gift of brotherhood. Surround me with men who will sharpen me and help me grow. Give me courage to be honest, humble, and accountable, so I can become the man You've called me to be.Let's Get To Work!The lone wolf may look tough, but he rarely survives. Real strength is found in brotherhood. Lock shields, Brother—don't fight alone.Thanks for reading My Reasons To Believe! This post is public so feel free to share it.My Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe

One of the greatest lies the enemy whispers to men is, “You're better off alone.” He wants you isolated, convinced you don't need anyone, and ashamed of your struggles. But Scripture tells us something different: we are stronger together. God designed brotherhood and accountability as weapons against sin, weakness, and discouragement. Real men don't fight their battles alone—they link arms with brothers who sharpen them, challenge them, and call them higher.Our springboard for today's discussion is:“Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.” — Proverbs 27:17 (ESV)Sharpening isn't a gentle process—it involves friction. Sparks fly. But without it, iron grows dull. And the same is true for men. Without brothers who will challenge us, confront us, and encourage us, we drift into weakness.Brotherhood means more than casual friendship. It means intentional connection with men who share your pursuit of Christ. Men who will tell you the truth, not just what you want to hear. Men who will pray for you, not gossip about you. Men who will pull you back when you're drifting and push you forward when you're hesitating.Accountability often gets a bad reputation—like it's only about confessing sin. But accountability is much bigger than that. It's about growth. It's about having men in your life who ask the hard questions, who celebrate your victories, and who won't let you settle for less than God's best.The culture says, “Handle your business alone.” God says, “Two are better than one.” The enemy trembles when men of God lock shields together, because he knows isolated men are vulnerable—but united men are unstoppable.Question of the Day:Do you have brothers in your life who sharpen you—or are you trying to fight your battles alone?Mini Call to Action:Reach out to one brother today. Ask him how he's really doing—and then let him ask you the same. Sharpen each other with honesty.Prayer:Lord, thank You for the gift of brotherhood. Surround me with men who will sharpen me and help me grow. Give me courage to be honest, humble, and accountable, so I can become the man You've called me to be.Let's Get To Work!The lone wolf may look tough, but he rarely survives. Real strength is found in brotherhood. Lock shields, Brother—don't fight alone.Thanks for reading My Reasons To Believe! This post is public so feel free to share it.My Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe

For many men, work feels like a grind—a paycheck, a necessity, or a burden. But in God's kingdom, work is never wasted. From the garden of Eden, God gave Adam the responsibility to cultivate and keep it. Work has always been part of man's calling, not a curse. Faithfulness in work isn't about climbing the corporate ladder—it's about honoring God in everything you do, no matter how big or small. When you see your work as worship, it changes everything.Our springboard for today's discussion is:“Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men.” — Colossians 3:23 (ESV)Paul's words here are clear—whatever you do, do it as unto the Lord. That means faithfulness in work isn't about who notices you, praises you, or pays you. It's about knowing your ultimate Boss is Jesus Christ.Faithfulness means showing up on time, giving your best, and finishing what you start. It's resisting the temptation to cut corners when no one's watching. It's treating people with respect—whether they're above you or under you.Brother, your work is part of your witness. The way you handle responsibilities, the way you deal with pressure, the way you treat coworkers—all of it points people to the God you serve. Even the most mundane task becomes sacred when you do it with excellence for Him.It's easy to separate work from faith—as if worship only happens on Sundays. But Scripture makes no such division. Work done with integrity, diligence, and gratitude is worship. And when you approach your labor with that mindset, you transform your workplace into a mission field.Faithfulness in work doesn't mean being perfect—it means being consistent. Day after day, task after task, you honor God through your effort, your attitude, and your integrity. That's how you build a legacy that lasts far beyond your career.Question of the Day:Are you working to please men—or are you working as an act of worship to God?Mini Call to Action:Before you start your work today, whisper a simple prayer: “Lord, I do this for You.” Let that shift your perspective and your effort.Prayer:Lord, help me to see my work the way You see it. Teach me to labor with excellence, not for the approval of men but for Your glory. Make my daily work an offering of worship to You.Let's Get To Work!Your job may pay the bills—but your faithfulness at work builds the Kingdom. Do it for Him, and every task becomes holy.Thanks for reading My Reasons To Believe! This post is public so feel free to share it.My Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe

For many men, work feels like a grind—a paycheck, a necessity, or a burden. But in God's kingdom, work is never wasted. From the garden of Eden, God gave Adam the responsibility to cultivate and keep it. Work has always been part of man's calling, not a curse. Faithfulness in work isn't about climbing the corporate ladder—it's about honoring God in everything you do, no matter how big or small. When you see your work as worship, it changes everything.Our springboard for today's discussion is:“Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men.” — Colossians 3:23 (ESV)Paul's words here are clear—whatever you do, do it as unto the Lord. That means faithfulness in work isn't about who notices you, praises you, or pays you. It's about knowing your ultimate Boss is Jesus Christ.Faithfulness means showing up on time, giving your best, and finishing what you start. It's resisting the temptation to cut corners when no one's watching. It's treating people with respect—whether they're above you or under you.Brother, your work is part of your witness. The way you handle responsibilities, the way you deal with pressure, the way you treat coworkers—all of it points people to the God you serve. Even the most mundane task becomes sacred when you do it with excellence for Him.It's easy to separate work from faith—as if worship only happens on Sundays. But Scripture makes no such division. Work done with integrity, diligence, and gratitude is worship. And when you approach your labor with that mindset, you transform your workplace into a mission field.Faithfulness in work doesn't mean being perfect—it means being consistent. Day after day, task after task, you honor God through your effort, your attitude, and your integrity. That's how you build a legacy that lasts far beyond your career.Question of the Day:Are you working to please men—or are you working as an act of worship to God?Mini Call to Action:Before you start your work today, whisper a simple prayer: “Lord, I do this for You.” Let that shift your perspective and your effort.Prayer:Lord, help me to see my work the way You see it. Teach me to labor with excellence, not for the approval of men but for Your glory. Make my daily work an offering of worship to You.Let's Get To Work!Your job may pay the bills—but your faithfulness at work builds the Kingdom. Do it for Him, and every task becomes holy.Thanks for reading My Reasons To Believe! This post is public so feel free to share it.My Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe

From the very beginning, passivity has been man's greatest temptation. Adam's first failure in the garden wasn't eating the fruit—it was standing silent while the serpent deceived his wife. And that same temptation still stalks men today. It whispers, “Stay quiet. Don't rock the boat. Don't get involved.” But passivity leaves gaps the enemy loves to exploit. God is calling His men to reject passivity, to step up, and to lead with courage even when it feels uncomfortable.Our springboard for today's discussion is:“Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong.” — 1 Corinthians 16:13 (ESV)Passivity shows up in all kinds of ways. Sometimes it's staying silent when your family needs your voice. Sometimes it's ignoring sin instead of confronting it. Other times, it's choosing the easy road of comfort instead of stepping into the hard work of responsibility.But the call of God on a man's life is the exact opposite. Paul's words here are active, not passive: Be watchful. Stand firm. Act like men. Be strong. These are battle commands. They're reminders that following Christ means taking action when others shrink back.Rejecting passivity doesn't mean being loud or aggressive. It means being alert, engaged, and willing to take responsibility. It means initiating prayer in your home, stepping into leadership in your church, and protecting your family spiritually when the enemy comes knocking.Brother, passivity may feel safe, but it always costs more in the end. Silence today can turn into bondage tomorrow. When men refuse to lead, the enemy gladly will. But when you stand firm in faith, speak truth in love, and act with strength, you slam the door in the enemy's face.The world says, “Do nothing and keep the peace.” God says, “Stand up and fight for what matters.”Question of the Day:Where are you tempted to stay passive right now—and how is God calling you to step in with strength?Mini Call to Action:Take one step of initiative today. Lead a prayer, start a conversation, or confront a compromise you've been avoiding.Prayer:Lord, forgive me for the times I've chosen silence over courage. Teach me to be watchful, to stand firm, and to step up when You call. Make me a man who rejects passivity and embraces responsibility.Let's Get To Work!Passivity builds weakness. Responsibility builds warriors. Step up, Brother—the world needs men who will not stand silent.Thanks for reading My Reasons To Believe! This post is public so feel free to share it.My Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe

From the very beginning, passivity has been man's greatest temptation. Adam's first failure in the garden wasn't eating the fruit—it was standing silent while the serpent deceived his wife. And that same temptation still stalks men today. It whispers, “Stay quiet. Don't rock the boat. Don't get involved.” But passivity leaves gaps the enemy loves to exploit. God is calling His men to reject passivity, to step up, and to lead with courage even when it feels uncomfortable.Our springboard for today's discussion is:“Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong.” — 1 Corinthians 16:13 (ESV)Passivity shows up in all kinds of ways. Sometimes it's staying silent when your family needs your voice. Sometimes it's ignoring sin instead of confronting it. Other times, it's choosing the easy road of comfort instead of stepping into the hard work of responsibility.But the call of God on a man's life is the exact opposite. Paul's words here are active, not passive: Be watchful. Stand firm. Act like men. Be strong. These are battle commands. They're reminders that following Christ means taking action when others shrink back.Rejecting passivity doesn't mean being loud or aggressive. It means being alert, engaged, and willing to take responsibility. It means initiating prayer in your home, stepping into leadership in your church, and protecting your family spiritually when the enemy comes knocking.Brother, passivity may feel safe, but it always costs more in the end. Silence today can turn into bondage tomorrow. When men refuse to lead, the enemy gladly will. But when you stand firm in faith, speak truth in love, and act with strength, you slam the door in the enemy's face.The world says, “Do nothing and keep the peace.” God says, “Stand up and fight for what matters.”Question of the Day:Where are you tempted to stay passive right now—and how is God calling you to step in with strength?Mini Call to Action:Take one step of initiative today. Lead a prayer, start a conversation, or confront a compromise you've been avoiding.Prayer:Lord, forgive me for the times I've chosen silence over courage. Teach me to be watchful, to stand firm, and to step up when You call. Make me a man who rejects passivity and embraces responsibility.Let's Get To Work!Passivity builds weakness. Responsibility builds warriors. Step up, Brother—the world needs men who will not stand silent.Thanks for reading My Reasons To Believe! This post is public so feel free to share it.My Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe

Everywhere you turn, the world tries to sell men on shortcuts, secrets, and compromises. Purity and integrity aren't celebrated much anymore—yet they're the very foundation of a godly man's strength. What you choose in private shapes who you are in public. The hidden battles you fight—what you watch, what you think about, what you dwell on—will eventually spill out into your words, your actions, and your leadership. Today, we're looking at why purity and integrity matter, and how they set you apart as a man after God's heart.Our springboard for today's discussion is:“How can a young man keep his way pure? By guarding it according to your word.” — Psalm 119:9 (ESV)Purity begins in the heart. It's not just about avoiding obvious sins—it's about aligning every thought, every desire, and every action with God's Word. David understood that the only way to keep his heart pure was by anchoring it in Scripture. And that truth hasn't changed.Integrity means wholeness. It means the man people see in public is the same man God sees in private. No masks. No double lives. A man of integrity doesn't cut corners at work, doesn't bend truth to make himself look better, and doesn't indulge in sin when he thinks nobody's watching.The culture says, “Do whatever feels good—as long as you don't get caught.” God says, “Be holy, for I am holy.” The culture celebrates secrecy. God celebrates transparency.Brother, purity and integrity are not about perfection—they're about direction. Every time you choose God's way, even when it's harder, you're proving that His Spirit is stronger in you than the temptations around you. You're showing your wife, your children, and your brothers in Christ what it looks like to live with honor.And here's the truth—purity and integrity don't just protect you. They protect your family. When you live clean before God, you build a legacy of trust that strengthens every relationship around you.Question of the Day:Where are you tempted to compromise in your life right now, and how is God calling you back to integrity?Mini Call to Action:Memorize Psalm 119:9 this week. Use it as a weapon when temptation comes—speak it out loud and let God's Word guard your heart.Prayer:Lord, give me the strength to walk in purity when temptation surrounds me. Keep my heart clean, my mind focused, and my actions aligned with Your Word. Make me a man of integrity—faithful in public and private.Let's Get To Work!Purity builds power. Integrity builds influence. When you guard your heart, you're not just protecting yourself—you're protecting everyone God has entrusted to you.Thanks for reading My Reasons To Believe! This post is public so feel free to share it.My Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe

Everywhere you turn, the world tries to sell men on shortcuts, secrets, and compromises. Purity and integrity aren't celebrated much anymore—yet they're the very foundation of a godly man's strength. What you choose in private shapes who you are in public. The hidden battles you fight—what you watch, what you think about, what you dwell on—will eventually spill out into your words, your actions, and your leadership. Today, we're looking at why purity and integrity matter, and how they set you apart as a man after God's heart.Our springboard for today's discussion is:“How can a young man keep his way pure? By guarding it according to your word.” — Psalm 119:9 (ESV)Purity begins in the heart. It's not just about avoiding obvious sins—it's about aligning every thought, every desire, and every action with God's Word. David understood that the only way to keep his heart pure was by anchoring it in Scripture. And that truth hasn't changed.Integrity means wholeness. It means the man people see in public is the same man God sees in private. No masks. No double lives. A man of integrity doesn't cut corners at work, doesn't bend truth to make himself look better, and doesn't indulge in sin when he thinks nobody's watching.The culture says, “Do whatever feels good—as long as you don't get caught.” God says, “Be holy, for I am holy.” The culture celebrates secrecy. God celebrates transparency.Brother, purity and integrity are not about perfection—they're about direction. Every time you choose God's way, even when it's harder, you're proving that His Spirit is stronger in you than the temptations around you. You're showing your wife, your children, and your brothers in Christ what it looks like to live with honor.And here's the truth—purity and integrity don't just protect you. They protect your family. When you live clean before God, you build a legacy of trust that strengthens every relationship around you.Question of the Day:Where are you tempted to compromise in your life right now, and how is God calling you back to integrity?Mini Call to Action:Memorize Psalm 119:9 this week. Use it as a weapon when temptation comes—speak it out loud and let God's Word guard your heart.Prayer:Lord, give me the strength to walk in purity when temptation surrounds me. Keep my heart clean, my mind focused, and my actions aligned with Your Word. Make me a man of integrity—faithful in public and private.Let's Get To Work!Purity builds power. Integrity builds influence. When you guard your heart, you're not just protecting yourself—you're protecting everyone God has entrusted to you.Thanks for reading My Reasons To Believe! This post is public so feel free to share it.My Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe

Every man is a leader somewhere—but the most important place you'll ever lead is under your own roof. Too many men pour themselves out for work, hobbies, or even ministry, but neglect the sacred responsibility of leading their families spiritually. Leadership at home isn't about being a dictator—it's about being a shepherd. It's not about ruling with an iron fist—it's about guiding with Christlike love. Today we're looking at what it means to step into your role as the spiritual leader of your home.Our springboard for today's discussion is:“Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.” — Ephesians 5:25 (ESV)This verse destroys every selfish version of leadership. Christ didn't lead the church with arrogance or intimidation. He led with sacrifice. He gave His life. That's the model we're called to follow at home.Spiritual leadership begins with love. Your wife doesn't need a drill sergeant—she needs a husband who sacrifices for her. Your children don't need a tyrant—they need a father who shows them what it looks like to walk with God. Leadership means initiating prayer, opening Scripture, and setting the tone of worship in your home.It's easy to think, “I don't know enough Bible” or “I'm not good with words.” But hear this: God isn't asking for perfection—He's asking for presence. He's asking you to show up, to lead by example, to admit when you're wrong, and to point your family back to Him.Brother, leadership is not about control. It's about responsibility. It's standing at the front lines of your family's spiritual battles. It's interceding for them, protecting them, and showing them how to trust God even in storms. When you lead your home with humility, strength, and faith, you're living out your highest calling as a man.Question of the Day:How are you actively leading your family toward Christ right now—and where do you need to step up?Mini Call to Action:Pray out loud with your family today. It doesn't have to be long or perfect—just lead. Even one prayer can shift the atmosphere of your home.Prayer:Father, teach me to love my family as Christ loved the church. Help me to lead not with pride but with sacrifice, not with harshness but with humility. Give me the courage to step into my calling as the spiritual leader of my home.Let's Get To Work!Your greatest mission field is not out there—it's right inside your own home. Lead with love, and you'll leave a legacy that echoes into eternity.Thanks for reading My Reasons To Believe! This post is public so feel free to share it.My Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe

Every man is a leader somewhere—but the most important place you'll ever lead is under your own roof. Too many men pour themselves out for work, hobbies, or even ministry, but neglect the sacred responsibility of leading their families spiritually. Leadership at home isn't about being a dictator—it's about being a shepherd. It's not about ruling with an iron fist—it's about guiding with Christlike love. Today we're looking at what it means to step into your role as the spiritual leader of your home.Our springboard for today's discussion is:“Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.” — Ephesians 5:25 (ESV)This verse destroys every selfish version of leadership. Christ didn't lead the church with arrogance or intimidation. He led with sacrifice. He gave His life. That's the model we're called to follow at home.Spiritual leadership begins with love. Your wife doesn't need a drill sergeant—she needs a husband who sacrifices for her. Your children don't need a tyrant—they need a father who shows them what it looks like to walk with God. Leadership means initiating prayer, opening Scripture, and setting the tone of worship in your home.It's easy to think, “I don't know enough Bible” or “I'm not good with words.” But hear this: God isn't asking for perfection—He's asking for presence. He's asking you to show up, to lead by example, to admit when you're wrong, and to point your family back to Him.Brother, leadership is not about control. It's about responsibility. It's standing at the front lines of your family's spiritual battles. It's interceding for them, protecting them, and showing them how to trust God even in storms. When you lead your home with humility, strength, and faith, you're living out your highest calling as a man.Question of the Day:How are you actively leading your family toward Christ right now—and where do you need to step up?Mini Call to Action:Pray out loud with your family today. It doesn't have to be long or perfect—just lead. Even one prayer can shift the atmosphere of your home.Prayer:Father, teach me to love my family as Christ loved the church. Help me to lead not with pride but with sacrifice, not with harshness but with humility. Give me the courage to step into my calling as the spiritual leader of my home.Let's Get To Work!Your greatest mission field is not out there—it's right inside your own home. Lead with love, and you'll leave a legacy that echoes into eternity.Thanks for reading My Reasons To Believe! This post is public so feel free to share it.My Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe

Courage isn't about never feeling fear—it's about choosing faith in the middle of it. Every man faces moments where the pressure is overwhelming—whether in our family, our work, or our walk with Christ. The easy road is to shrink back, to freeze, or to compromise. But courage, the kind God whispers into the heart of His sons, isn't natural—it's supernatural. Today we're looking at how to walk in courage when everything inside you wants to run.Our springboard for today's discussion is:“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.” — Joshua 1:9 (ESV)Joshua knew what pressure felt like. He had the weight of leading an entire nation. Giants in the land. Enemies ahead. And God didn't tell him, “Joshua, don't worry, it won't be hard.” No, God told him, “Be strong and courageous.” That command wasn't about Joshua pulling courage out of himself—it was about trusting in the God who promised to go with him.Courage under pressure means you don't fold when the heat rises. It means you remember God's presence is bigger than your fear. For men today, pressure looks different, but it's just as real. The pressure to provide. The pressure to protect. The pressure to lead well when you feel empty inside.Here's the key, Brother: courage is not about the absence of fear—it's about obedience in spite of it. The Spirit of God gives you the ability to stand, to choose what's right, to keep walking when everything screams at you to quit. And when you do, courage becomes contagious. Your wife sees it. Your children feel it. Your brothers in Christ are strengthened by it.The culture says courage is about swagger. God says courage is about surrender. It's about trusting Him enough to take the next step, even if you can't see the outcome.Question of the Day:Where is God calling you to stand strong right now, even though fear is pressing in?Mini Call to Action:Pause today and speak Joshua 1:9 out loud over your life. Declare it until your heart believes it. Courage rises when God's Word fills the atmosphere.Prayer:Lord, give me strength when I feel weak and courage when I feel afraid. Remind me that You are with me in every battle, every burden, and every moment of pressure. Let my courage be a testimony that points my family and others back to You.Let's Get To Work!Fear may roar loud, but the presence of God roars louder. Stand firm, Brother—He goes before you.Thanks for reading My Reasons To Believe! This post is public so feel free to share it.My Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe

Courage isn't about never feeling fear—it's about choosing faith in the middle of it. Every man faces moments where the pressure is overwhelming—whether in our family, our work, or our walk with Christ. The easy road is to shrink back, to freeze, or to compromise. But courage, the kind God whispers into the heart of His sons, isn't natural—it's supernatural. Today we're looking at how to walk in courage when everything inside you wants to run.Our springboard for today's discussion is:“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.” — Joshua 1:9 (ESV)Joshua knew what pressure felt like. He had the weight of leading an entire nation. Giants in the land. Enemies ahead. And God didn't tell him, “Joshua, don't worry, it won't be hard.” No, God told him, “Be strong and courageous.” That command wasn't about Joshua pulling courage out of himself—it was about trusting in the God who promised to go with him.Courage under pressure means you don't fold when the heat rises. It means you remember God's presence is bigger than your fear. For men today, pressure looks different, but it's just as real. The pressure to provide. The pressure to protect. The pressure to lead well when you feel empty inside.Here's the key, Brother: courage is not about the absence of fear—it's about obedience in spite of it. The Spirit of God gives you the ability to stand, to choose what's right, to keep walking when everything screams at you to quit. And when you do, courage becomes contagious. Your wife sees it. Your children feel it. Your brothers in Christ are strengthened by it.The culture says courage is about swagger. God says courage is about surrender. It's about trusting Him enough to take the next step, even if you can't see the outcome.Question of the Day:Where is God calling you to stand strong right now, even though fear is pressing in?Mini Call to Action:Pause today and speak Joshua 1:9 out loud over your life. Declare it until your heart believes it. Courage rises when God's Word fills the atmosphere.Prayer:Lord, give me strength when I feel weak and courage when I feel afraid. Remind me that You are with me in every battle, every burden, and every moment of pressure. Let my courage be a testimony that points my family and others back to You.Let's Get To Work!Fear may roar loud, but the presence of God roars louder. Stand firm, Brother—He goes before you.Thanks for reading My Reasons To Believe! This post is public so feel free to share it.My Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe

The world shouts a thousand different definitions of manhood. Some say it's about how much money you make. Others say it's about how strong you are, how tough you act, or how many people you can control. But if you strip away the noise, what's left? God's whisper tells a very different story. True manhood isn't measured by outward success—it's revealed in the hidden places of justice, kindness, and humility. Today we're asking: What truly defines a godly man?Our springboard for today's discussion is:“He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the LORD require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?” — Micah 6:8 (ESV)Micah lays it out as plain as day. A godly man isn't first known by his strength, achievements, or titles. He's known by his obedience to God's call in three simple yet powerful ways.Do justice. This means living with integrity. Not cutting corners. Not exploiting others. It's standing firm for what is right, even when it costs you respect, money, or comfort. A man of God makes decisions rooted in truth, not convenience.Love kindness. Too many mistake cruelty for strength. But biblical manhood is marked by compassion. A godly man uses his strength to protect, not to intimidate. He forgives when it's easier to hold a grudge. He shows mercy when others want revenge. Strength without kindness is just brutality—but strength wrapped in kindness is Christlike.Walk humbly with your God. This is the anchor of everything else. Humility is not weakness—it's power under submission. A man who walks with God knows he isn't the ultimate authority. He's a servant under the true King. The culture may celebrate arrogance, but God celebrates humility.Here's the truth, Brother: the world crowns men based on trophies. God crowns men based on obedience. And when you choose justice, kindness, and humility, you're living out heaven's definition of masculinity.Question of the Day:What is shaping your definition of manhood today—the culture around you or the Word of God within you?Mini Call to Action:Write down Micah 6:8 on a card or in your phone. Read it three times today and let it reshape the standard you measure yourself by.Prayer:Lord, teach me to be a man after Your heart. Help me to act with justice, to love with kindness, and to walk humbly in step with You. Strip away the false images of manhood I've believed, and rebuild me into the man You've called me to be.Let's Get To Work!A godly man isn't made by the culture's applause but by heaven's approval. Walk in God's blueprint, and you'll never walk alone.Thanks for reading My Reasons To Believe! This post is public so feel free to share it.My Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe

The world shouts a thousand different definitions of manhood. Some say it's about how much money you make. Others say it's about how strong you are, how tough you act, or how many people you can control. But if you strip away the noise, what's left? God's whisper tells a very different story. True manhood isn't measured by outward success—it's revealed in the hidden places of justice, kindness, and humility. Today we're asking: What truly defines a godly man?Our springboard for today's discussion is:“He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the LORD require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?” — Micah 6:8 (ESV)Micah lays it out as plain as day. A godly man isn't first known by his strength, achievements, or titles. He's known by his obedience to God's call in three simple yet powerful ways.Do justice. This means living with integrity. Not cutting corners. Not exploiting others. It's standing firm for what is right, even when it costs you respect, money, or comfort. A man of God makes decisions rooted in truth, not convenience.Love kindness. Too many mistake cruelty for strength. But biblical manhood is marked by compassion. A godly man uses his strength to protect, not to intimidate. He forgives when it's easier to hold a grudge. He shows mercy when others want revenge. Strength without kindness is just brutality—but strength wrapped in kindness is Christlike.Walk humbly with your God. This is the anchor of everything else. Humility is not weakness—it's power under submission. A man who walks with God knows he isn't the ultimate authority. He's a servant under the true King. The culture may celebrate arrogance, but God celebrates humility.Here's the truth, Brother: the world crowns men based on trophies. God crowns men based on obedience. And when you choose justice, kindness, and humility, you're living out heaven's definition of masculinity.Question of the Day:What is shaping your definition of manhood today—the culture around you or the Word of God within you?Mini Call to Action:Write down Micah 6:8 on a card or in your phone. Read it three times today and let it reshape the standard you measure yourself by.Prayer:Lord, teach me to be a man after Your heart. Help me to act with justice, to love with kindness, and to walk humbly in step with You. Strip away the false images of manhood I've believed, and rebuild me into the man You've called me to be.Let's Get To Work!A godly man isn't made by the culture's applause but by heaven's approval. Walk in God's blueprint, and you'll never walk alone.Thanks for reading My Reasons To Believe! This post is public so feel free to share it.My Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe

Let's be honest—there are seasons when prayer feels like talking to the ceiling. The words feel hollow, the passion isn't there, and your heart wonders if God is even listening. Every believer walks through dry seasons in prayer. But here's the truth: dryness doesn't mean distance. Silence doesn't mean absence. God is closer than you feel, and those dry stretches often become the proving ground of your faith.Our springboard for today's discussion is:“Call to me and I will answer you, and will tell you great and hidden things that you have not known.” — Jeremiah 33:3 (ESV)Prayer isn't always fireworks. Sometimes it's discipline. Sometimes it's pressing through when every emotion screams, “Give up.” But understand this: the silence of God is not rejection—it's invitation.Dry seasons expose whether your relationship with God is built on feelings or faith. If prayer is only sustained by emotion, you'll quit the moment the well feels empty. But when prayer is anchored in truth—when you know that God has promised to hear—you'll keep showing up even when the emotions are gone.Think of it like a marriage: the strongest bonds aren't built in the honeymoon moments but in the quiet, faithful, ordinary days. The same is true in your walk with God. Faithful prayer in dry seasons builds a depth of intimacy that passion alone cannot produce.And remember, the Word of God is your well. When your prayers feel dry, let Scripture fuel your dialogue. Pray the Psalms. Declare God's promises. Let His Word become the language that carries you through the desert until the rivers of His presence flow again.Dry seasons don't last forever. But the faith you build in them will.Question of the Day:When prayer feels dry, do you lean into faith—or do you give up too soon?Mini Call to Action:Today, take 10 minutes to pray through one Psalm—line by line. Don't rush. Don't force emotion. Just let God's Word guide your prayer until you sense His nearness again.Prayer:Father, thank You for never leaving me—even when I can't feel You. Teach me to press in through the dry seasons, to anchor my prayers in Your promises, and to trust that You are always listening. Refresh my spirit and renew my passion for prayer. Amen.Let's Get To Work!Support MyR2B Ministries: MyR2B Ministries is our full-time ministry. Your paid subscription helps sustain this work and expand our ministry outreach.Thanks for reading My Reasons To Believe! This post is public so feel free to share it.My Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe

Let's be honest—there are seasons when prayer feels like talking to the ceiling. The words feel hollow, the passion isn't there, and your heart wonders if God is even listening. Every believer walks through dry seasons in prayer. But here's the truth: dryness doesn't mean distance. Silence doesn't mean absence. God is closer than you feel, and those dry stretches often become the proving ground of your faith.Our springboard for today's discussion is:“Call to me and I will answer you, and will tell you great and hidden things that you have not known.” — Jeremiah 33:3 (ESV)Prayer isn't always fireworks. Sometimes it's discipline. Sometimes it's pressing through when every emotion screams, “Give up.” But understand this: the silence of God is not rejection—it's invitation.Dry seasons expose whether your relationship with God is built on feelings or faith. If prayer is only sustained by emotion, you'll quit the moment the well feels empty. But when prayer is anchored in truth—when you know that God has promised to hear—you'll keep showing up even when the emotions are gone.Think of it like a marriage: the strongest bonds aren't built in the honeymoon moments but in the quiet, faithful, ordinary days. The same is true in your walk with God. Faithful prayer in dry seasons builds a depth of intimacy that passion alone cannot produce.And remember, the Word of God is your well. When your prayers feel dry, let Scripture fuel your dialogue. Pray the Psalms. Declare God's promises. Let His Word become the language that carries you through the desert until the rivers of His presence flow again.Dry seasons don't last forever. But the faith you build in them will.Question of the Day:When prayer feels dry, do you lean into faith—or do you give up too soon?Mini Call to Action:Today, take 10 minutes to pray through one Psalm—line by line. Don't rush. Don't force emotion. Just let God's Word guide your prayer until you sense His nearness again.Prayer:Father, thank You for never leaving me—even when I can't feel You. Teach me to press in through the dry seasons, to anchor my prayers in Your promises, and to trust that You are always listening. Refresh my spirit and renew my passion for prayer. Amen.Let's Get To Work!Support MyR2B Ministries: MyR2B Ministries is our full-time ministry. Your paid subscription helps sustain this work and expand our ministry outreach.Thanks for reading My Reasons To Believe! This post is public so feel free to share it.My Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe

When we bow our heads, it's natural for our prayers to center on us—our needs, our pain, our struggles. But one of the clearest signs of spiritual maturity is when prayer shifts outward. When you choose to step into the fight for someone else. That's intercession. It's when you stand in the gap, not for your benefit, but because someone else desperately needs Heaven to break through. And God, in His mercy, chooses to move through your faith on their behalf.Our springboard for today's discussion is:“First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people.” — 1 Timothy 2:1 (ESV)Paul wasn't suggesting here—he was commanding. “All people.” That means more than the safe circle of friends and family. It means the coworker who irritates you. The politician you disagree with. Even your enemies. Intercessory prayer is bold. It stretches your heart to match the heart of Jesus, who “always lives to make intercession” for us (Hebrews 7:25).Brother, when you pray for someone else, you are literally stepping into Christ's current ministry in Heaven. You're linking arms with Him in His role as Intercessor. That's powerful.But don't overcomplicate it. Effective intercession isn't about impressive phrases or marathon prayers—it's about alignment. It's about love. It's listening for what God desires in that person's life and agreeing with it. True intercession isn't twisting God's arm—it's saying “Yes, Lord” to His will and standing in faith until it breaks through.And make no mistake—this is warfare. To intercede is to battle for someone's freedom, healing, and destiny. Your prayer can be the shield that stops the enemy's attack, the sword that cuts through confusion, or the torch that lights their way out of darkness. Sometimes your intercession is the very thing that tips the scales.So when God places a name or face on your heart, don't dismiss it. That's not random. That's an assignment from Heaven. Don't ignore it. Because your prayer could be the difference between despair and hope, bondage and freedom, defeat and victory.Question of the Day:Who is God asking you to intercede for today—and are you willing to fight for them in prayer?Mini Call to Action:Take five intentional minutes. Shut the door, silence distractions, and go to war in prayer for the one God places on your heart. Then let them know—you're praying.Prayer:Lord, make me a faithful intercessor. Give me Your heart for others. Teach me to hear Heaven's agenda and pray it boldly. Let my prayers move mountains, bring freedom, and release breakthrough over those You love.Let's Get To Work!Your intercession is not wasted—it's ammunition in someone else's war.Thanks for reading My Reasons To Believe! This post is public so feel free to share it.My Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe

When we bow our heads, it's natural for our prayers to center on us—our needs, our pain, our struggles. But one of the clearest signs of spiritual maturity is when prayer shifts outward. When you choose to step into the fight for someone else. That's intercession. It's when you stand in the gap, not for your benefit, but because someone else desperately needs Heaven to break through. And God, in His mercy, chooses to move through your faith on their behalf.Our springboard for today's discussion is:“First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people.” — 1 Timothy 2:1 (ESV)Paul wasn't suggesting here—he was commanding. “All people.” That means more than the safe circle of friends and family. It means the coworker who irritates you. The politician you disagree with. Even your enemies. Intercessory prayer is bold. It stretches your heart to match the heart of Jesus, who “always lives to make intercession” for us (Hebrews 7:25).Brother, when you pray for someone else, you are literally stepping into Christ's current ministry in Heaven. You're linking arms with Him in His role as Intercessor. That's powerful.But don't overcomplicate it. Effective intercession isn't about impressive phrases or marathon prayers—it's about alignment. It's about love. It's listening for what God desires in that person's life and agreeing with it. True intercession isn't twisting God's arm—it's saying “Yes, Lord” to His will and standing in faith until it breaks through.And make no mistake—this is warfare. To intercede is to battle for someone's freedom, healing, and destiny. Your prayer can be the shield that stops the enemy's attack, the sword that cuts through confusion, or the torch that lights their way out of darkness. Sometimes your intercession is the very thing that tips the scales.So when God places a name or face on your heart, don't dismiss it. That's not random. That's an assignment from Heaven. Don't ignore it. Because your prayer could be the difference between despair and hope, bondage and freedom, defeat and victory.Question of the Day:Who is God asking you to intercede for today—and are you willing to fight for them in prayer?Mini Call to Action:Take five intentional minutes. Shut the door, silence distractions, and go to war in prayer for the one God places on your heart. Then let them know—you're praying.Prayer:Lord, make me a faithful intercessor. Give me Your heart for others. Teach me to hear Heaven's agenda and pray it boldly. Let my prayers move mountains, bring freedom, and release breakthrough over those You love.Let's Get To Work!Your intercession is not wasted—it's ammunition in someone else's war.Thanks for reading My Reasons To Believe! This post is public so feel free to share it.My Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe

We've all had those moments—when we've prayed over and over again, and heaven seems silent. No response. No shift. Just the quiet, and the temptation to give up. But discipleship isn't just marked by what we pray—it's marked by how long we keep praying. Real intimacy is formed in the waiting.Our springboard for today's discussion is:“Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.” — Romans 12:12 (ESV)Let's be real, Brother—persistent prayer can feel like spiritual trench warfare. You're in it, you're tired, and you don't know when the breakthrough is coming. But Scripture doesn't just suggest that we stay constant in prayer—it commands it. That word constant means faithfully devoted, unwavering, immovable. Why? Because the enemy would love nothing more than to wear you out before your miracle comes.Persevering prayer is powerful. It's not begging—it's standing. It's declaring, day after day, “I still believe. I still trust. I'm not letting go.” That kind of prayer builds muscle. It deepens your faith and aligns your heart with God's timing, not just your own expectations.Jesus told a parable in Luke 18 about a persistent widow who kept pressing a corrupt judge until she got justice. And then He said something sobering: “Will not God give justice to His elect, who cry to Him day and night?” The point? God is not reluctant—He's preparing you. He's shaping your heart through persistence.Some answers come quickly. Others take years. Some prayers change your circumstances. Others change you. But every prayer sown in faith bears fruit—in its time.When you pray and nothing seems to happen, don't assume God is inactive. He's working in the unseen. Sometimes the delays are divine setups. And sometimes… He's waiting to see if you'll stay.Question of the Day:What promise from God are you tempted to stop praying for because the waiting feels too long?Mini Call to Action:Reignite one long-forgotten prayer today. Speak it out loud. Write it down again. And thank God in advance for His perfect timing.Prayer:Lord, give me the strength to persevere. Remind me that Your silence doesn't mean absence, and that Your delays are not denial. I choose today to stand, to believe, and to keep praying until You move.Let's Get To Work!Prayer isn't always quick—but it's always powerful. Stay in the fight. Your breakthrough may be one prayer away.Thanks for reading My Reasons To Believe! This post is public so feel free to share it.Thanks for reading My Reasons To Believe! This post is public so feel free to share it.My Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe

We've all had those moments—when we've prayed over and over again, and heaven seems silent. No response. No shift. Just the quiet, and the temptation to give up. But discipleship isn't just marked by what we pray—it's marked by how long we keep praying. Real intimacy is formed in the waiting.Our springboard for today's discussion is:“Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.” — Romans 12:12 (ESV)Let's be real, Brother—persistent prayer can feel like spiritual trench warfare. You're in it, you're tired, and you don't know when the breakthrough is coming. But Scripture doesn't just suggest that we stay constant in prayer—it commands it. That word constant means faithfully devoted, unwavering, immovable. Why? Because the enemy would love nothing more than to wear you out before your miracle comes.Persevering prayer is powerful. It's not begging—it's standing. It's declaring, day after day, “I still believe. I still trust. I'm not letting go.” That kind of prayer builds muscle. It deepens your faith and aligns your heart with God's timing, not just your own expectations.Jesus told a parable in Luke 18 about a persistent widow who kept pressing a corrupt judge until she got justice. And then He said something sobering: “Will not God give justice to His elect, who cry to Him day and night?” The point? God is not reluctant—He's preparing you. He's shaping your heart through persistence.Some answers come quickly. Others take years. Some prayers change your circumstances. Others change you. But every prayer sown in faith bears fruit—in its time.When you pray and nothing seems to happen, don't assume God is inactive. He's working in the unseen. Sometimes the delays are divine setups. And sometimes… He's waiting to see if you'll stay.Question of the Day:What promise from God are you tempted to stop praying for because the waiting feels too long?Mini Call to Action:Reignite one long-forgotten prayer today. Speak it out loud. Write it down again. And thank God in advance for His perfect timing.Prayer:Lord, give me the strength to persevere. Remind me that Your silence doesn't mean absence, and that Your delays are not denial. I choose today to stand, to believe, and to keep praying until You move.Let's Get To Work!Prayer isn't always quick—but it's always powerful. Stay in the fight. Your breakthrough may be one prayer away.Thanks for reading My Reasons To Believe! This post is public so feel free to share it.Thanks for reading My Reasons To Believe! This post is public so feel free to share it.My Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe

Too often, we approach prayer like a transaction. We bring our list of needs, hand them to God, and hope for answers. But prayer is meant to be far deeper. It's not only about speaking—it's about sharing God's heart. The ultimate goal of prayer isn't getting something from God, but getting closer to God.Our springboard for today's discussion is:“The friendship of the Lord is for those who fear him, and he makes known to them his covenant.” — Psalm 25:14 (ESV)Imagine sitting down with a close friend who never lets you speak, who only unloads their problems and then leaves. That's what prayer looks like when it's only about us. But discipleship means cultivating a friendship with God, where His heart is revealed to us.How do we hear God's heart in prayer?* Through His Word. Scripture is God's primary revelation of His heart. When you pray it, you're hearing His desires, His promises, and His will.* Through the Holy Spirit. Romans 8:16 tells us, “The Spirit himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God.” In prayer, the Spirit nudges us, convicts us, comforts us, and whispers what matters most to the Father.* Through surrender. When we pray, “Your will be done,” we shift from forcing our desires onto God to receiving His. That's when intimacy happens—when our heart begins to beat in rhythm with His.Hearing God's heart changes how you pray for others. Instead of praying your limited perspective, you start praying His eternal will. Instead of asking only for relief, you begin asking for transformation. Instead of focusing only on problems, you begin declaring His purposes.The closer you draw to Him in prayer, the more you'll notice your heart aligning with His—loving what He loves, grieving what He grieves, and pursuing what He pursues.Question of the Day:When was the last time you paused in prayer not to ask, but simply to say, “Father, what's on Your heart today?”Mini Call to Action:Take 10 minutes today to pray without asking for anything. Instead, ask God to show you what's on His heart and write it down.Prayer:Lord, draw me deeper into friendship with You. Teach me to pray not only my words, but to listen for Yours. Align my heart with Your desires, so that I may live and pray in step with You.Let's Get To Work!Prayer is the bridge where your heart meets His. Step onto it, listen well, and walk in rhythm with the Father.Thanks for reading My Reasons To Believe! This post is public so feel free to share it.My Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe

Every disciple will face it—the season when prayer feels dry. The words seem to bounce off the ceiling. The emotions fade. Silence replaces the nearness you once felt. In those moments, it's tempting to think God has left or that you've failed. But dry prayer seasons are not the end of intimacy with God. They are invitations to press deeper, to move from feelings into faith, and to discover that prayer is not built on emotion but on commitment.Our springboard for today's discussion is:“Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him.” — James 1:12 (ESV)Dryness in prayer doesn't mean God is absent—it often means He is drawing you into a deeper level of trust. Just as a good teacher is quiet during the test, sometimes the Father allows silence to strengthen your perseverance.Here's how to overcome those seasons:* Anchor in the Word. When prayer feels empty, lean heavily on Scripture. Pray it, read it aloud, and let it guide your heart when words are hard to find.* Stay consistent. Don't abandon your prayer time because it feels unfruitful. Faithfulness in the dry place builds maturity.* Shift the focus. Instead of asking, “What am I getting from prayer?” ask, “What am I giving to God in prayer?” Worship Him for who He is, not just for what you feel.* Invite the Spirit. Romans 8:26 reminds us that the Spirit intercedes when we don't know what to pray. Trust His strength when yours runs out.Every relationship goes through seasons. If your marriage or friendships were only fueled by emotion, they wouldn't last. It's commitment that carries them through. The same is true with God. Dry prayer seasons refine your love, proving it's rooted in covenant, not convenience.Don't quit in the silence. Often, it's just before breakthrough that the silence breaks.Question of the Day:How do you usually respond when prayer feels dry—do you pull back, or press in?Mini Call to Action:Commit today to remain faithful in prayer this week, even if you feel nothing. Write down one Scripture to pray daily until joy returns.Prayer:Lord, help me remain steadfast when prayer feels dry. Remind me that You are near even in silence. Strengthen my faith to press in, trust deeper, and continue seeking You with persistence.Let's Get To Work!Dry seasons don't last—but faithful disciples do. Keep praying. Keep pressing. The well will flow again.Thanks for reading My Reasons To Believe! This post is public so feel free to share it.My Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe

One of the greatest privileges of prayer is intercession—praying for others. It's easy to make prayer only about ourselves, our needs, and our struggles. But discipleship calls us to lift up those around us—to carry their burdens before the throne of God. When you pray for others, you are partnering with Heaven to release blessing, protection, and breakthrough into their lives.Our springboard for today's discussion is:“First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people.” — 1 Timothy 2:1 (ESV)Paul's words to Timothy remind us that intercession is not optional—it's foundational. Prayer is not only about our walk with God but about advancing His Kingdom in the lives of others. Intercession is one of the most selfless acts of love a disciple can give.So how do we pray for others effectively?* Pray specifically. Don't just say “Lord, bless them.” Ask God to reveal specific needs—healing, courage, provision, wisdom. Call out their name before the Father.* Pray Scripture. Nothing strengthens prayer like aligning it with God's Word. Pray verses of hope, healing, and strength directly over their situation.* Pray persistently. Jesus taught persistence in prayer through the parable of the persistent widow (Luke 18). Don't give up after one prayer—keep lifting them up until the breakthrough comes.* Pray with compassion. Let your heart feel their burden. True intercession flows from love, not obligation.When you intercede, you are literally standing in the gap for someone else. Ezekiel 22:30 tells us that God looked for someone to stand in the gap. Today, you can be that person.Never underestimate how your prayers can shape someone's destiny. You may not see immediate results, but your intercession invites God's hand into their life in ways unseen. And often, as you pray for others, God begins to soften and strengthen your own heart as well.Question of the Day:Who in your life is God calling you to pray for today with intentionality and faith?Mini Call to Action:Pick one person and commit to intercede for them daily this week—by name, with Scripture, and with expectation.Prayer:Lord, give me a heart of compassion for others in prayer. Teach me to intercede faithfully, to pray Your Word over their lives, and to believe for breakthroughs on their behalf. Use me as one who stands in the gap.Let's Get To Work!Your prayers for others matter. Stand in the gap today—you may be the reason someone else finds victory tomorrow.Thanks for reading My Reasons To Believe! This post is public so feel free to share it.My Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe

Prayer is powerful, but there are moments in Scripture where prayer alone wasn't enough. Some battles required more. That “more” was fasting. When combined with prayer, fasting doesn't just add intensity—it adds breakthrough. It silences the flesh so the spirit can rise. It opens doors to clarity, power, and victory that otherwise remain shut.Our springboard for today's discussion is:“But this kind never comes out except by prayer and fasting.” — Matthew 17:21Fasting is often misunderstood. It's not about starving yourself, punishing your body, or earning God's attention. Fasting is about making space for God by denying the flesh. When you fast, you remove something physical in order to prioritize the spiritual.Throughout Scripture, fasting was connected to great moves of God. Moses fasted on the mountain as he received the Law. Esther called her people to fast before approaching the king, and deliverance came. Jesus Himself fasted forty days before beginning His ministry.When you fast, your hunger becomes a constant reminder to pray. Your dependence shifts from physical bread to the Bread of Life. And something remarkable happens—your prayers gain sharper focus, your discernment becomes clearer, and your spirit is strengthened against temptation.Fasting also tears down spiritual strongholds. There are situations in your life—bondages, addictions, or obstacles—that will not break through ordinary effort. Prayer and fasting together release extraordinary power. That's why Jesus told His disciples that some battles require both.Don't let fasting intimidate you. It doesn't always mean going forty days without food. It could mean skipping one meal to seek God, fasting for a day, or even laying aside distractions like social media or entertainment to focus on Him. The point isn't how long you fast—it's how surrendered you are in the process.When prayer and fasting combine, chains break, clarity comes, and God's power is revealed in fresh ways.Question of the Day:What area of your life feels like it needs breakthrough that ordinary prayer hasn't yet touched?Mini Call to Action:Choose one way to fast this week—whether food, media, or something else—and dedicate that time to prayer.Prayer:Lord, teach me the discipline of fasting. Help me deny the flesh so my spirit can grow stronger. Use my sacrifice to break chains, open doors, and bring me closer to You.Let's Get To Work!Some victories come only through prayer and fasting. Step into it, and watch God move.Thanks for reading My Reasons To Believe! This post is public so feel free to share it.My Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe

Most people don't struggle with praying once—they struggle with praying consistently. We wait until crisis strikes, and then we rush into prayer. But a disciple's strength is not built in the moment of battle—it's built in the daily rhythms of devotion. Just like a soldier sharpens his sword long before he enters the fight, we must develop a steady, disciplined prayer routine that strengthens us for whatever lies ahead.Our springboard for today's discussion is:“Pray without ceasing.” — 1 Thessalonians 5:17 (ESV)Paul's instruction to “pray without ceasing” doesn't mean walking around mumbling prayers nonstop. It means cultivating a lifestyle of constant connection with God—a rhythm where prayer becomes as natural as breathing. And that begins with building a routine.A prayer routine anchors your life. Just as Daniel prayed three times a day even when it was dangerous, you too need a rhythm that keeps you connected to the Father no matter what comes. It could be mornings with Scripture and prayer, evenings reflecting with gratitude, or short breaks during the day to pause and reconnect.Consistency is more powerful than intensity. A one-hour prayer once a month won't change your life nearly as much as ten minutes of focused prayer every day. Discipline builds intimacy. And over time, your routine becomes less of a checklist and more of a lifeline—something you crave, not something you have to force.Here's the truth: the enemy fears a praying disciple. He knows that if you build a consistent routine of prayer, you will become unshakable. That's why he distracts you, busies you, and convinces you prayer is optional. But prayer is never optional—it is oxygen for your soul.Start small but be consistent. Choose a set time, protect it fiercely, and let God meet you there. Over time, your routine will grow into a lifestyle, and your lifestyle into a testimony of God's faithfulness.Question of the Day:Do you treat prayer as a routine rhythm or as an occasional response?Mini Call to Action:Pick one specific time each day this week for prayer. Write it down, guard it, and let nothing else take its place.Prayer:Lord, help me to build a consistent prayer routine that strengthens my walk with You. Teach me discipline, remove distractions, and fill my set times with Your presence.Let's Get To Work!Prayer routines build spiritual muscle. Start small, stay consistent, and watch your strength in God grow.Thanks for reading My Reasons To Believe! This post is public so feel free to share it.My Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe

Some people treat prayer as a last resort—something we try when all else fails. But Scripture shows us the exact opposite: prayer is the starting place where God's power is unleashed. Real prayer isn't about sending wishful thoughts into the sky—it's about calling down Heaven's authority into earth's reality. Prayer doesn't just change us; it changes things.Our springboard for today's discussion is:“The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working.” — James 5:16 (ESV)James reminds us that prayer has great power as it is working. That means prayer isn't just an empty ritual—it's active, dynamic, and effective. When Elijah prayed, drought came to the land. When he prayed again, rain returned (James 5:17-18). His prayer shifted weather patterns! The early church prayed, and prison doors opened for Peter (Acts 12). Paul and Silas prayed in chains, and an earthquake shook their jail.Here's the key: prayer isn't powerful because of us. It's powerful because of the One we pray to. God in His wisdom has chosen to partner with His people through prayer. He could act without us, but He delights in working through us.So what does this mean for you? It means that your prayers matter more than you think. When you pray for your children, you're inviting God's hand into their lives. When you pray for your marriage, you're calling Heaven's power to strengthen what the enemy wants to destroy. When you pray over your workplace, your neighborhood, or your nation, you're aligning with the will of God to shift things you cannot control.Prayer also changes things in you. It moves your perspective from fear to faith, from panic to peace. It reminds you that you're not powerless—you're partnered with the Almighty.So stop underestimating prayer. It is not a backup plan—it's your battle plan.Question of the Day:Do you pray expecting God to move—or just hoping He hears?Mini Call to Action:Identify one specific situation in your life that feels impossible. Pray boldly over it every day this week, expecting God to act.Prayer:Father, forgive me for praying small prayers without expectation. Teach me to believe in the power of prayer, not because of my words, but because of Your authority. Move mountains, open doors, and change what I cannot change. In Jesus' name, Amen.Let's Get To Work!Pray as if Heaven is backing you—because it is. Prayer is your greatest weapon. Use it.Thanks for reading My Reasons To Believe! This post is public so feel free to share it.My Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe

There are days when words flow easily in prayer—and then there are days when silence feels heavy, and you don't know what to say. But here's the gift: God has already given us the perfect words to pray—His Word. When we pray Scripture, we're not just reciting verses; we're aligning our heart with His truth and declaring promises that will never fail.Our springboard for today's discussion is:“All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness.” — 2 Timothy 3:16 (ESV)Praying Scripture is one of the most powerful habits you can form in your prayer life. When you feel anxious, you can pray Philippians 4:6-7: “Do not be anxious about anything… and the peace of God… will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” When you're weary, you can declare Isaiah 40:31: “But they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength.”This practice does three things:* It roots your prayers in God's authority. Instead of praying based on emotion, you're praying based on unshakable truth.* It transforms your mind. As you pray His Word, you're also meditating on it, letting it rewire your thinking.* It increases your faith. Romans 10:17 tells us, “Faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ.” When you pray Scripture, you're speaking life into your spirit.Praying Scripture also protects you from praying selfishly. Instead of asking only from your perspective, you begin to align with God's heart and His will. It becomes less about “Lord, do what I want” and more about “Lord, let Your Word be fulfilled.”Here's a practical step: pick one passage of Scripture today, personalize it into prayer, and speak it out loud. For example, take Psalm 23:1—“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want”—and pray: “Lord, thank You that You are my shepherd. Today, I trust that I lack nothing in You.”Question of the Day:What Scripture do you need to begin praying over your life and family right now?Mini Call to Action:Choose one verse today, write it down, and pray it morning and night this week.Prayer:Father, thank You for giving me Your Word as a foundation for my prayers. Teach me to pray it daily, not as ritual but as relationship—so that Your truth fills my heart, my home, and my future.Let's Get To Work!Pray the Word, and you'll always pray His will. Scripture isn't just to be read—it's to be declared.Thanks for reading My Reasons To Believe! This post is public so feel free to share it.My Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe

Prayer is not a monologue—it's a dialogue. Too often, we approach God with a list of requests, pour them out, say “Amen,” and move on with our day. But discipleship requires something deeper. Prayer isn't complete until we've learned to listen. Because when God speaks, His words cut through confusion, bring direction, and fill us with life.Our springboard for today's discussion is:“My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me.” — John 10:27Teaching:Jesus made it clear—hearing His voice is not reserved for prophets or super-spiritual leaders. It's the birthright of every believer. Yet listening prayer requires training your soul to quiet down and tune in.Think of it like tuning a radio. The signal is already broadcasting, but you've got to adjust the dial to catch it clearly. God is always speaking through His Word, His Spirit, and His whispers to your heart. But we miss Him because we're too busy talking, distracted, or doubting.Here are some listening practices that help:* Silence and stillness — Take a few minutes to sit in quiet before the Lord. Let the noise of your thoughts settle.* Scripture meditation — Read a verse slowly and ask the Spirit, “What are You highlighting to me right now?”* Journaling His whispers — Write down impressions, thoughts, or nudges that align with God's character and Word.* Asking and waiting — Pray a simple question, then wait with expectation. God honors the disciple who listens.Listening prayer teaches you dependence. It reminds you that discipleship isn't just about what you say to God—it's about how well you respond to His voice. And the more you practice listening, the more confident you'll become in recognizing His guidance.Question of the Day:When was the last time you stopped long enough to truly listen for God's voice in prayer?Mini Call to Action:Set aside 10 minutes today just for listening prayer. Ask the Lord one question, stay silent, and journal what you sense He says.Prayer:Lord, teach me to quiet my heart and hear Your whispers. Help me grow in confidence, not in my ability to hear, but in Your faithfulness to speak.Let's Get To Work!The louder the world gets, the more vital it is to hear God's whisper. Train your ears today, and your steps will be steady tomorrow.Thanks for reading My Reasons To Believe! This post is public so feel free to share it.My Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe

Every warrior has a base—a place where weapons are sharpened, wounds are healed, and strength is restored. For you as a disciple of Jesus, that base is the secret place. It's not just a location; it's a decision to meet with God in an intentional, undistracted way. Without it, your spirit runs dry. With it, you become unstoppable.Our springboard for today's discussion is:“But when you pray, go into your room and shut the door and pray to your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.” — Matthew 6:6Teaching:Jesus modeled this principle throughout His life. Though He carried the power to heal the sick and raise the dead, He consistently withdrew to desolate places to pray. The Son of God needed the Father's presence in solitude—how much more do we?The secret place is about shutting the door—not just a physical door, but the doors of distraction. Shutting off the noise of your phone. Closing the mental loop of worry. Refusing the constant pull of busyness.When you meet God there, you learn that prayer is less about performance and more about presence. You don't need perfect words—you just need an open heart. He rewards the hidden life, the faithful disciple who seeks Him when nobody else is watching.And here's the truth: the strength you carry in public will always be a reflection of the time you've spent with God in private. What is whispered in the secret place becomes thunder on the battlefield.Question of the Day:Where is your “secret place,” and what do you need to shut the door on to meet with God more deeply?Mini Call to Action:Pick one time and one place today to guard as your meeting place with God. Write it down and keep it sacred.Prayer:Father, draw me into the secret place where it's just You and me. Teach me to shut the door on distractions and open my heart fully to Your presence.Let's Get To Work!Today's obedience sets the course for tomorrow's breakthroughs. Keep stepping faithfully, one obedience at a time.My Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe

GET TO WORK _ One of the Best Speeches Ever by Brian BullockGet AudioBooks for FreeBest Self-improvement MotivationGet AudioBooks for Free⁠We Need Your Love & Support ❤️https://buymeacoffee.com/myinspiration#Motivational_Speech#motivation #inspirational_quotes #motivationalspeech

Knowledge without application is just information. It fills notebooks, impresses people, and fuels pride—but it never truly transforms lives. Jesus didn't call disciples to merely learn about Him; He called them to live like Him. Discipleship's ultimate test is found not in how much we know, but in how authentically and faithfully we practice what we've learned.Our springboard for today's discussion is:“What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.” — Philippians 4:9Let's get real. We live in an age of unprecedented access to spiritual content—books, podcasts, sermons, devotionals. But simply absorbing content doesn't necessarily produce mature disciples. Spiritual maturity comes from consistently putting into practice what God has revealed to you.The Apostle Paul understood this deeply. He didn't tell believers just to listen or memorize. He urged them to watch his life and replicate his faithfulness. His challenge was straightforward: “What you've seen in me, do that.” That's real discipleship—when others can look at your life and clearly see a demonstration of Christ in action.It's tempting to keep learning without living, accumulating spiritual insights without applying them. But true transformation demands that you live out your convictions in practical, everyday ways. It means forgiving even when it's painful, serving when it's inconvenient, giving generously even when it stretches your faith, and responding to hurts with grace instead of bitterness.God doesn't measure discipleship by theological brilliance or Bible trivia. He measures it by obedience and authenticity. Your obedience is what turns truth into transformation.So today, evaluate your life honestly. Is there a disconnect between what you believe and how you behave? Are there truths God has revealed to you that you've yet to fully live out? Begin to close that gap.Question of the Day:What specific truth or lesson has God shown you recently that you haven't yet fully put into practice?Mini Call to Action:Decide on one practical step of obedience today and commit to taking immediate action.Prayer:Lord, help me not to settle for knowing without doing. Give me the courage to live out the truths You've taught me. Let my life reflect the reality of Your Word in action, so others see You clearly through me. Amen.Let's Get To Work!Disciples aren't just hearers—they're doers. Live out what you learn, and your life will become your loudest sermon.My Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe

Starting your own business, do you ever worry if there's enough “business” to go round? Headlines with some hemorrhoid info you NEED to know Sports with Mike Tyson's next fight booked for 2026

No disciple wants trials, pain, or hardship. We prefer comfort, peace, and blessings—and understandably so. Yet the uncomfortable truth is this: some of the deepest spiritual growth occurs in the hardest seasons of life. The fires of adversity aren't meant to destroy you. They're meant to refine you, strengthen you, and shape you more fully into the likeness of Christ.Our springboard for today's discussion is:“When you walk through the fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you.” — Isaiah 43:2If you're truly committed to becoming a disciple, you won't be able to avoid the flames of adversity. Trials will come, not because you're doing something wrong, but often precisely because you're walking faithfully with Jesus. These challenging seasons aren't signs that God has abandoned you—they're evidence He's refining you.Consider this: gold is purified in fire. The heat doesn't destroy the gold—it removes impurities, increasing its value and purity. Likewise, the fires of trials remove impurities from your heart, refine your character, and deepen your trust. It's easy to praise God when everything's going your way. But real faithfulness emerges when circumstances become unbearably difficult, yet you choose to trust Him anyway.The Bible repeatedly shows that disciples aren't exempt from hardship. Job endured incredible suffering, yet emerged closer to God than ever before. Daniel's faithfulness led him into the lions' den, yet God delivered him powerfully. Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego faced literal fire, yet emerged unscathed, experiencing God's tangible presence in their trial.Your trials don't mean God is distant. Often, He's closer than ever during these times. Your hardships don't indicate His displeasure; they reveal His loving commitment to your growth. Every trial is an invitation to trust Him more deeply and discover His presence in new, profound ways.The key is your response. You can resist, complain, and grow bitter—or you can surrender, trust, and emerge stronger. Faithfulness isn't measured by comfort; it's proven by endurance. Keep worshiping when it hurts. Keep trusting when you can't see the outcome. Keep walking forward when everything urges you to retreat.Today, if you're walking through fire, hold onto this truth: you will not be consumed. Your pain has purpose. Your struggle is temporary. Your refinement is eternal. And God promises He will never let you walk through the fire alone.Question of the Day:What fiery trial are you walking through right now—and how is God refining you through it?Mini Call to Action:Write down one truth about God's character that you can cling to during this trial. Keep it visible and remind yourself of it daily.Let's Get To Work!Faithfulness isn't tested in comfort—it's proven in fire. Keep walking. Keep trusting. Keep standing strong. God is refining gold in you.My Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe

The mark of a true disciple isn't just personal growth—it's reproduction. Jesus didn't say, “Go and become great followers.” He said, “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations…” (Matthew 28:19). Discipleship was never meant to end with you; it was designed to multiply through you.Our springboard for today's discussion is:“…and what you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses entrust to faithful men, who will be able to teach others also.” — 2 Timothy 2:2 (ESV)Paul's instruction to Timothy shows us the multiplication model:* Receive from a faithful teacher.* Entrust it to faithful people.* Equip them to teach others.It's a chain of discipleship that spans generations. But here's the problem—many believers break the chain by holding onto what they've learned without passing it on.Multiplication requires intentionality. It's not about being a spiritual “expert”; it's about being available and willing. You might think, “I'm not ready to mentor someone.” But Jesus didn't wait until His disciples had it all together—He began training them while they were still learning.To multiply disciples, you must:* Model the life of a disciple—live what you teach.* Mentor intentionally—walk with people through their spiritual growth.* Mobilize them—equip them to serve, lead, and disciple others.This is more than a Bible study—it's life-on-life investment. It means inviting people into your world, letting them see your faith in action, and teaching them to follow Christ not just with knowledge but with their whole lives.When you multiply disciples, your influence for the Kingdom extends far beyond your own life. You're planting seeds in people who will reach others you may never meet. That's the power of Kingdom multiplication—it never stops.If your faith has changed you, don't let it stop with you. Pass it on. Multiply it. Leave a legacy of disciples who make disciples.Question of the Day:Who is one person you can begin intentionally discipling this month?Mini Call to Action:Pray and ask God to highlight someone in your life to begin walking with spiritually. Commit to meeting regularly and sharing what you've learned in Christ.Prayer:Lord, thank You for those who have poured into my life and helped me grow in You. Give me eyes to see those around me who are ready to be discipled. Give me the courage to step out, the humility to serve, and the wisdom to guide them closer to You. Help me to multiply what You've placed in me for Your Kingdom's sake. In Jesus' name, Amen.Let's Get To Work!Don't just be a disciple—become a disciple-maker who leaves a spiritual legacy that multiplies for generations.My Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe

Recording of a Mussar Schmooze given to Baer Miriam Alumni

There's a difference between surviving as a believer and thriving as a disciple. One simply hangs on until Heaven; the other grows, bears fruit, and lives on mission for the Kingdom. What separates the two is hunger—a holy desire for spiritual maturity that refuses to be satisfied with yesterday's faith.Our springboard for today's discussion is:“Like newborn infants, long for the pure spiritual milk, that by it you may grow up into salvation—if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is good.” — 1 Peter 2:2-3 (ESV)Peter paints a vivid picture: just as a newborn instinctively cries out for nourishment, so should we long for the Word, prayer, and fellowship with God. Spiritual maturity is not a passive process. You cannot drift into depth; you must pursue it intentionally.This hunger starts with realizing there is more of God to know, more of His ways to understand, and more of His Spirit to experience. Many Christians plateau because they mistake initial salvation for the fullness of the Christian life. But God is calling you to press in, to keep growing, to let Him refine you in character, faith, and obedience.Hunger for spiritual maturity will disrupt comfort zones. It will cause you to ask hard questions, wrestle with God's Word, and confront areas in your life that don't align with His will. It means you stop being content with surface-level spirituality and go deeper—studying Scripture until it changes you, praying until your heart aligns with His, and serving until your life reflects His love in action.Without hunger, we settle for spiritual junk food—things that entertain but do not nourish. With hunger, we feed on what will strengthen our faith, even when it's challenging to digest.The truth is, God will meet you at the level of your hunger. If you desire just enough of Him to get by, that's what you'll receive. But if you desire more—if you chase after Him like David did, if you long for Him as the deer pants for water—you will find depths of intimacy and revelation that transform your entire life.Question of the Day:How hungry are you for spiritual growth—and what does your daily life say about that hunger?Mini Call to Action:Choose one new spiritual discipline or practice to deepen your walk this week, and commit to it daily.Prayer:Lord, give me a deep, unshakable hunger for You. Stir my heart to desire Your Word, Your presence, and Your will above everything else. Remove distractions that dull my appetite for spiritual growth. Teach me to crave what nourishes my soul, so that I may grow into full maturity in Christ. In Jesus' name, Amen.Let's Get To Work!Your level of hunger determines your depth of growth—chase after Him with everything you've got.My Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe

We often think of spiritual growth as a matter of passion, inspiration, or a “big breakthrough” moment. But the truth is, most of your spiritual transformation will not happen in a single dramatic encounter—it will be the product of habits you choose, day after day, that quietly shape your heart toward God.If you think about it, habits are simply repeated actions that become second nature over time. And if our goal as disciples is to become more like Jesus, we must intentionally form habits that align us with His heart and His ways.Our springboard for today's discussion is:“Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.” — Romans 12:2 (ESV)Developing godly habits begins with renewing the mind. Your thought life fuels your choices, and your choices create patterns. If your mind is being shaped by worldly voices more than God's Word, your habits will reflect that influence. But if you immerse yourself in Scripture, prayer, worship, and godly fellowship, your spiritual reflexes will begin to change.Start small. It's tempting to think you need a massive overhaul all at once, but lasting transformation comes from steady steps. If you're inconsistent in prayer, start with ten intentional minutes each morning. If Bible reading feels sporadic, commit to one chapter a day. These habits will not feel natural at first, but over time, they will become part of the fabric of your life—automatically guiding your responses, your relationships, and your decisions toward God's will.Understand this: ungodly habits do not disappear just because you stop them. They must be replaced. If you want to remove a pattern of worry, replace it with a habit of thanksgiving. If you want to stop speaking words of complaint, replace them with words of blessing. Spiritual discipline isn't about deprivation—it's about transformation.Godly habits are your training ground for the moments when your faith is tested. They keep you anchored when emotions fluctuate, when trials come, and when the enemy whispers lies. These rhythms create a spiritual reflex—so that when life squeezes you, what comes out is the fruit of the Spirit, not the residue of the flesh.Question of the Day:Which one godly habit do you need to start—or strengthen—this week?Mini Call to Action:Write it down, pray over it, and take one practical step toward putting it into action today.Prayer:Father, thank You for giving me the ability to form habits that honor You. Help me to choose rhythms and disciplines that draw me closer to Your heart and anchor me in Your truth. Replace old patterns that lead me away from You with habits that keep me in step with Your Spirit. Give me perseverance when it feels difficult, and joy as I see transformation take root. In Jesus' name, Amen.Let's Get To Work!Transformation doesn't happen by accident—it's built, one godly habit at a time.My Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe

Obedience is one of those words that can make us uncomfortable—especially when it demands action we'd rather avoid. We prefer the excitement of miracles, the emotion of worship, or the revelation of new truths. But God's clearest, most consistent measure of our discipleship isn't how loudly we praise or how deeply we study—it's how faithfully we obey. Daily. Consistently. Quietly. Even when no one is watching.Our springboard for today's discussion is:“Whoever has my commandments and keeps them, it is he who loves me. And he who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I will love him and manifest myself to him.” — John 14:21 (ESV)Let's clarify one thing first: obedience is not legalism. It's relationship. God doesn't call us to obey just for the sake of rules. He invites us into obedience because it leads to closeness, intimacy, and deeper revelation of His heart. Jesus promises explicitly: when we obey Him, He manifests—He shows Himself—to us. Obedience unlocks deeper intimacy and clearer communication.Many believers struggle to hear God's voice because they hesitate or refuse to follow His simple instructions. If God nudges you to forgive and you hold onto bitterness, why would He give deeper insight? If He gently prompts you to step out in faith, but you remain safely within comfort zones, why would He call you into greater adventures?Discipleship is formed in the daily decisions you make to say “yes” to His leading, even when it costs you something. Obedience often means going against your natural inclinations, confronting fears, surrendering pride, or taking uncomfortable steps. Yet every step of obedience, no matter how small, sets the stage for the next divine encounter, the next miracle, the next breakthrough.Maybe today God is calling you to have that difficult conversation. Perhaps He's prompting you to release that grudge or sacrifice that comfort. Whatever it is, understand this: your obedience is never unnoticed by Him. He delights in your willingness. He honors your courage.Real obedience is often unseen by others—but it always moves Heaven. It aligns your heart with God's purposes. It brings about change in you first, then around you. Your obedience today opens the door to His greater revelation tomorrow.Question of the Day:What step of obedience is God asking of you today—and why have you been hesitating?Mini Call to Action:Write down that one step of obedience clearly. Commit in prayer to act upon it immediately, trusting God to guide you through it.Prayer:Father, thank You for the privilege of walking in step with You. Give me a heart that delights in obedience, even when it's hard or inconvenient. Remove any fear, hesitation, or pride that keeps me from saying “yes” to You. Help me to trust that every act of obedience, no matter how small, draws me deeper into Your presence and positions me for Your purposes. Strengthen me to follow through today with courage and faith. In Jesus' name, Amen.Let's Get To Work!Today's obedience sets the course for tomorrow's breakthroughs. Keep stepping faithfully, one obedience at a time.My Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe

Let's get honest—Christianity isn't about checking boxes, memorizing verses, or looking good on Sundays. It's about fruit. Not just any fruit, but the kind that proves you're following Jesus. We're not called to simply believe in Him. We're called to become like Him—and that transformation shows up in our everyday lives.Our springboard for today's discussion is:“By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit and so prove to be my disciples.” — John 15:8Jesus didn't say people would know we're His disciples by how well we preach, how many devotionals we write, or even how passionately we pray. He said we'd be known by our fruit. That's love when it's hard, patience when you're stretched, and joy when life doesn't make sense.Fruit is what the world sees when it watches your life. It's what your spouse experiences, what your kids pick up on, and what your coworkers notice when you're under pressure. You might be the only Bible someone ever reads—and your fruit is the ink.The question is—what are you producing?A true disciple bears fruit not because they're striving harder, but because they're abiding deeper. Fruit doesn't come from religious hustle. It comes from connection. Remain in Christ, and fruit will follow. Cut yourself off from Him, and you'll dry up fast.This isn't about perfection—it's about progression. You're not going to see a harvest overnight. But stay rooted in Jesus, and over time, the fruit of the Spirit—love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control—will begin to shape every part of your life.Question of the Day:What kind of fruit is showing up in your life today—and what does it reveal about your walk with Jesus?Mini Call to Action:Pick one area of fruit you want to grow in this week—and ask the Holy Spirit to cultivate it.Let's Get To Work!You weren't saved to sit still. You were saved to bear fruit that lasts. Keep abiding, keep growing—and let your life speak loud.My Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe

We live in a world that idolizes independence—“Do it yourself. Find your own way. Blaze your own trail.” But that's not how God designed discipleship. From Moses to Joshua, Elijah to Elisha, Paul to Timothy, we see a divine pattern: growth happens when one believer walks closely with another and says, “Follow me as I follow Christ.”Our springboard for today's discussion is:“Be imitators of me, as I am of Christ.” — 1 Corinthians 11:1The Christian life is not meant to be navigated alone, especially when you're growing in faith. That's where mentorship comes in—not as some formal program, but as a deeply relational connection with someone who's gone where you're trying to go.Paul wasn't perfect. Far from it. But he invited others to watch his life, learn from his mistakes, and imitate his pursuit of Jesus. That's what true spiritual mentorship looks like—it's not about having all the answers, but about living a life worth following.If you're serious about becoming a mature disciple, seek out someone who embodies the faith you want to grow into. Watch how they pray. Ask how they hear God. Learn how they endure suffering. Let their fire ignite yours.Mentors aren't spiritual superheroes. They're just faithful followers of Christ who are willing to invest in others. If you've never had one, it might feel intimidating to ask. But trust me—it's worth it. One Spirit-led mentor can accelerate your growth in ways you never imagined.And one day? You'll be that person for someone else.Question of the Day:Who is pouring into you spiritually? Who do you trust to speak truth into your growth?Mini Call to Action:Pray today for a mentor. Then act—ask, reach out, and make space for their voice in your life.Let's Get To Work!You weren't meant to grow alone. Find someone who's walking ahead—and follow their footprints toward Jesus.My Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe

Let's be honest—accountability isn't something most of us crave. It's not flashy. It's not comfortable. But if you want to grow deep and stay strong in your walk with Christ, you need more than sermons and prayer. You need someone who sees your blind spots, knows your battles, and isn't afraid to call you higher.Our springboard for today's discussion is:“Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed.” — James 5:16aGod never intended discipleship to be a solo mission. Jesus walked in close community. He taught the masses, yes—but He discipled the twelve. And within those twelve, He poured even deeper into three. Why? Because transformation thrives in relationship.Accountability is not about shame—it's about freedom. When you're walking in the light with a brother or sister in Christ, the enemy loses ground. Sin feeds on secrecy. But confession, truth, and prayer cut its power off at the root.A real accountability partner doesn't just ask if you read your Bible—they ask if you honored your wife, if you stayed clean online, if you walked in obedience when it was hard. They love you enough to challenge you, and humble enough to let you challenge them too.If no one knows the full truth about you, then your growth is limited. We all need someone who knows our struggles and speaks life into them. That's not weakness—that's warrior wisdom.Question of the Day:Do you have someone in your life who knows your spiritual battles—and calls you to live like Christ?Mini Call to Action:If not, ask God today to bring that person. And if you do have them—thank them. Then make time to talk.Let's Get To Work!Discipleship isn't just about you and God. It's about you, God, and the body. So link arms. Fight together. Win together.My Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe

The British press is coming for Prince William's work ethic—or lack thereof. While Anne racks up engagements, William and Kate rack up holidays. Plus: Epstein redactions in a royal biography, a $300 teddy bear at Highgrove, Charles hiring new staff, the rarest Queen coin enters circulation, and a new royal job listing that offers free lunch and constitutional headaches.

Today I'm sharing some audio from my new course on Insight Timer: Mindfulness for Managers at Work.Having the right mindset and clear intentions can steady you through change and uncertainty. It will help you feel grounded, calm, and authentically confident.Save this for anytime you need a reminder!See the full course here:⁠⁠⁠⁠https://insighttimer.com/meditation-courses/mindfulness-for-managers-at-work⁠Check out my other content on Insight Timer:https://insighttimer.com/kimnicol**After the Episode**Enroll in Communication Skills for Managers:⁠⁠⁠⁠https://maven.com/kimnicol/communication-strategies⁠⁠⁠⁠Get private coaching for your personal goals and professional development:⁠⁠⁠⁠https://kimnicol.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow me on LinkedIn:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimnicol/⁠⁠⁠