Podcasts about main points

How many times have you and I come to God in prayer over a desperate situation, and we felt as if we didn't have the words to pray?  We didn't know what to say. In that moment, words seem to fail us.Main Points:1. What a powerful truth this is! The Spirit of God knows what our needs are and in our moments of weakness, begins to intercede for us.2. We need the Spirit's help because we are so weak.   There are moments in life when we are physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually exhausted.  Circumstances have pushed us over the edge.3. The Holy Spirit takes up our needs at the deepest emotional level and brings our hurts and cares to the Father's throne, all in line with the will of God. This should encourage us to pour out our hearts before Him.Today's Scripture Verses:Romans 8:26-27 - “In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans. And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for God's people in accordance with the will of God.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

The giants we struggle with the most are not sickness, finances, pain, loss, or grief.  Our biggest giants are internal.  The battles that take us out are personal.  Struggles like lust, greed, selfishness, anger, bitterness, and fear can become giants that destroy our faith, our relationships, and our future.  We must guard our hearts and develop a close relationship with Jesus to defeat these giants within. Main Points:1. David's internal giant was lust.    You may not battle this one, but perhaps you are fighting another internal giant, one with a different name. Maybe you are fighting the giant of discouragement, despair, fear, anxiety, depression, grief, anger, or unforgiveness.2. Thankfully, King David was repentant and his relationship with God was restored, but it's a tragic story that didn't have to happen if only David had guarded his heart. For us, the story is a cautionary tale and a reminder to run to God for help when we are fighting internal giants.3. Bring your giants to God. With His help, every giant can be defeated.Today's Scripture Verses:2 Samuel 5:13 - “David took more concubines and wives in Jerusalem…”Proverbs 4:23 - “Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life.”Psalm 46:1 - “God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

The Bible teaches us that not only does God forgive us, but he removes our condemnation. Grace brings freedom. It provides healing for the soul. Sins are not only forgiven, but God lifts our sentence of guilt. Shame is erased.Main Points:1. There is one universal thing every human has in common. We are all sinners. We have all made mistakes. We all have failures and shortcomings.2. The story of the gospel is that Jesus has come to save us from our sins. Jesus died on the cross, taking the penalty for our sins and satisfying the justice of a righteous and holy God. Out of His love and grace, he offers us forgiveness of our sins, as we place our faith in Him and confess Him as our Lord and Savior.3. Stop and think about these words. No condemnation. Not a hint, not a whisper, not even a shadow of it. The believer stands before the throne of God, not as a condemned criminal awaiting punishment, but as a redeemed child embraced by the loving arms of the Father.Today's Scripture Verses:Romans 3:23 - “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.”1 Corinthians 6:11 - “…you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God.”John 3:17 - “For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him."Romans 8:1 - “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”John 5:24 - “I tell you the truth, whoever hears My word and believes Him who sent Me has eternal life and he will not be condemned.  He has crossed over from death to life."   Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

You and I have a truth we can hold onto today: God is a promise-keeper. He will not fail. What He has said, He will do. What He has promised, He will perform. Main Points:1. Let this truth be an encouragement in your life today. No word from God ever fails. No matter your current circumstances, God's Word remains unshakable. In times of uncertainty, when others may question the reliability of God's promises, as believers, we can find comfort and assurance in the unchanging nature of God's Word.2. Some of God's promises come to pass quickly, even overnight. Others stretch over long periods of time. Waiting on God is not always easy. In fact, sometimes it's even painful. As finite humans, it's difficult to understand the timing of a sovereign God. Yet, we live by faith. We trust a God who has proven Himself to be true to His Word time and time again.3. Be encouraged by the truth that no word from God will ever fail. Today's Scripture Verses:Luke 1:37, "For no word from God will ever fail."Joshua 21:43-45 - “So the Lord gave Israel all the land he had sworn to give their ancestors, and they took possession of it and settled there. The Lord gave them rest on every side, just as he had sworn to their ancestors. Not one of their enemies withstood them; the Lord gave all their enemies into their hands. Not one of all the Lord's good promises to Israel failed; every one was fulfilled.”1 Kings 8:56“ - Blessed be the Lord who has given rest to his people Israel, according to all that he promised. Not one word has failed of all his good promise, which he spoke by Moses his servant”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

God, in His infinite wisdom, uses what the world considers foolish—the preaching of the cross—to confound the wise. The power of salvation is not found in human wisdom or eloquence, but in the message of Christ's sacrificial love.Main Points:1. To an unsaved world, the salvation that God offers us through Christ seems incomprehensible to those who haven't experienced it. It sounds like “foolishness” to say that salvation could come through a cross—a death marked by weakness, defeat, and humiliation. Yet this “foolishness” was the salvation that Paul preached! 2. God took something shameful and weak—death on a cross—and made it the foundation of wisdom and power. God does the unimaginable. Later in verse 27, Paul would say that God chooses the weak and foolish things of the world to shame the wise.3. The simple message of the Gospel, though considered foolish by the world, carries the power to transform lives and bring about salvation. Today's Scripture Verses:1 Corinthians 1:18-24 - “For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. For it is written: “I will destroy the wisdom of the wise; the intelligence of the intelligent I will frustrate.”  Where is the wise person? Where is the teacher of the law? Where is the philosopher of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of the world? For since in the wisdom of God the world through its wisdom did not know him, God was pleased through the foolishness of what was preached to save those who believe. Jews demand signs and Greeks look for wisdom, but we preach Christ crucified: a stumbling block to Jews and foolishness to Gentiles, but to those whom God has called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God. For the foolishness of God is wiser than human wisdom, and the weakness of God is stronger than human strength.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

Don't Stop Believing, Part 2 A sermon by Pastor Richard Sfameni, Lead Pastor at Victory Church, in Providence, RI. Opening and Welcome Greeting and response (“Amen. You may be seated. Praise the Lord…”) Appreciation for worship and participation Importance of authentic worship regardless of personal trial Your worship may inspire others seeing you worship through struggles Introduction to the Message Continuation of last week's sermon: “Don't Stop Believing” Central theme: The importance of faith Church communications and resources Plan to distribute more tools (study notes, questions, etc.) Request for members' contact information for improved communication Emphasis: Church is not just about large attendance, but engagement and making disciples The Church's Mission A. Contrast: Mere attendance vs. engagement and discipleship Mission to make disciples, not just fill seats Desire for everyone to participate in the mission Illustration: “Church is not a show” Story of the complaining church family and the child's remark Clarification: True purpose is the kingdom of God and being a church on mission Textual Foundation: Hebrews 12:1–4 Reading the passage: Call to run the race with endurance Surrounded by a “cloud of witnesses” Laying aside every weight and sin Looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of faith Enduring hostility/persecution Context of Hebrews Audience: New Jewish believers facing persecution and discouragement Emphasis on Jesus' supremacy (greater than Moses, angels, law, etc.) Faith as a central theme—challenge to keep believing despite opposition The Value and Battle for Faith The cost and value of faith Faith is precious and under attack by the enemy Analogy: No one protects garbage; faith is worth guarding Scriptural support: 1 Peter 1:6–7 Faith tested by trials is more precious than gold Faith defined as taking God at His word, trusting His promises The devil's strategy Destroy faith to win the war for your soul Example: Peter's denial—Jesus prayed for his faith, not his flawless behavior Faith enables recovery from failure; without faith, all is lost Restoration possible in every area if faith remains Encouragement Against Discouragement Relating to listeners facing severe trials Message: Keep running, keep believing, keep trusting God Faith Lessons from Hebrews 12:1–4 Prompt: “I need to learn more about faith.” Faith as Armor and Protection Theme connection: VBS and the armor of God Shield of faith in spiritual warfare Attack of the enemy represented as “fiery darts” Practical reminder: The armor and shield are necessary for those following Christ Emphasis on being targeted by the enemy after choosing Christ Review of Main Points on Faith (from Hebrews 11 and 12) Examples of Faith Long-distance race imagery—a “cloud of witnesses” Heroes of faith in Hebrews 11: Overcame challenges through faith Romans 15:4—Scripture written for our learning and hope Hindrances of Faith Laying aside “every weight and sin” Illustration: Man with backpack in church = symbolic of carrying burdens Every person has weights unique to them; these hinder the race Philippians 3:12–14—Forgetting the past, pressing to the future Weights may be past hurts, offenses, or nostalgia for “good old days” God grants “divine forgetfulness;” past loses its sting through grace Warning: Some people's lives are diminished by holding onto the past Everyone gets hurt—must let go of past to move forward Analogy of car: Rear view mirror vs. windshield Not just bad things—even good things can keep you from the best Example from business literature: Jim Collins' “stop doing list” Need for focus and discipline; not every opportunity is for you Living With Focus and Purpose Personal examples (Clergy Day, Black Hawk helicopter story) Temptation to take on too much, even good things, but must focus on God's specific calling Pastor's personal callings—pastoring, discipling, international ministry Not every door is yours to walk through The Perseverance of Faith (Major Point) Key emphasis: Learning to persevere/endure Life of faith is a marathon, not a sprint Everyone must run their race for a lifetime Many start but give up because of opposition/discouragement Greek word “hupomonē”—active, determined perseverance despite hardship Perseverance needed in all areas: marriage, raising kids, ministry, career Illustrations: Father-son story—Elmer MacLurkin (a joke to show the importance of perseverance) Famous perseverance quote: Winston Churchill—“Never, never, never give up” Bible college anecdote: “Never, never, never quit”—words that rang true over time Practical encouragement Heroes like Noah and Abraham persevered over decades for God's promise Breakthroughs often come after the hardest trials—don't quit before your breakthrough God's grace picks you up after you fall; faith enables you to keep going Closing Exhortation and Prayer The way to persevere: Prayer and the Word Grace for endurance comes through prayer, worship, and Scripture Not about willpower, but about God's grace working in you Ministry anecdote: “You can quit Sunday afternoon, just show up Monday morning.” Final appeals Don't quit: on God, on relationships, on dreams, on your walk Don't miss your breakthrough—greatest attacks precede the next season Reiterate: “Don't quit. Don't give up. Never, never, never quit.” Closing prayer Ask God to ignite and strengthen the people's hearts with truth Call for going forward, not quitting, renewed by God's grace in word and prayer Recap: The critical, non-negotiable importance of daily connection to God's Word and prayer  

The good news is that God specializes in restoring and rebuilding lives. Millions of people have experienced His grace and power. They have seen God pick them up out of the ruins and turn their lives around.Main Points:1. Today, there are many whose lives are falling apart. Their marriages have been destroyed. There is conflict and difficulty within the family relationships.  Many have experienced collapse due to sin and rebellion against God. They have left behind a trail of mistakes, failures, and poor decisions. Others battle addictions and brokenness. Where there was once health and vitality, there is now rubble and debris.2. Maybe you need God's restoration power in your life, and you wonder where to start? How do you begin to pick up the pieces of a life that has been broken apart? The answer is to follow the example of Ezra. Rebuild the altar. 3. With humility, rebuild the altar in your life. No, not a physical altar or a piece of furniture where you would kneel to pray. Building an altar means you are turning to God for help. You are establishing a relationship with God. You are reaching out in prayer to a God of grace. He's a God who wants to restore.Today's Scripture Verses:2 Kings 25:1,9 - “Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon marched against Jerusalem with his whole army. He set fire to the temple of the Lord, the royal palace and all the houses of Jerusalem. Every important building he burned down. The whole Babylonian army under the commander of the imperial guard broke down the walls around Jerusalem.”Ezra 3:3 - “Despite their fear of the peoples around them, they built the altar on its foundation and sacrificed burnt offerings on it to the Lord, both the morning and evening sacrifices.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

The Word of God is our trail marker. Without the Word of God, we don't know where to walk, or even how to walk, in a spiritual sense.  Left to ourselves, we will get lost. Main Points:1. A hiker who ignores the trail markers and wanders off the well-worn path, thinking they know a better way, is foolish. To think you know better than those who have walked this journey before you would be unwise. Yet, as it relates to our Christian faith, it happens all the time.2. We must see that there is safety in staying on the path God has marked out for us. He has marked the way home. If we let God's Word be our guide and if we let the Scripture identify every step, we'll make it safely to our eternal destination. 3. We can't afford to be careless on our spiritual journey. We must be in the Word of God. We must read the truth of the Bible and apply it to our lives. This will ensure that God's Word directs our footsteps.Today's Scripture Verses:Psalm 119:133 - “Direct my footsteps according to your word; let no sin rule over me.”Psalm 119:105 - “Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.”Hebrews 12:1 - “Therefore, since we have so great a cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us also lay aside every encumbrance and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us…”Proverbs 14:12 - “There is a way that seems right to a man, But its end is the way of death.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

The most foundational doctrine of Christianity is that Jesus was 100% God and 100% man. He is the son of God and the son of man. He was virgin born, conceived by the Holy Spirit. This does not mean God came down and was sexually intimate with Mary. It means it is a miraculous conception.Main Points:1. The virgin birth reveals the deity of Jesus. If Jesus is not God, then he could not save us. And if Jesus did not save you, you are still lost in your sins.2. Jesus was born as a man because he had to be a man to be our true representative on the cross. He had to be God because He is the only one capable of saving us.3. Do not let anyone tell you the doctrine of the virgin birth of Christ is not an essential belief. It is absolutely essential. The virgin birth of Jesus fulfills the prophecy and promise of God, and it reveals the deity of our Savior.Today's Scripture Verses:John 1:14 - “The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.”Isaiah 7:14 - “Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

As humans, we often mistakenly value a person's life by what they give to the world, their gifts, talents, and abilities. But this is not how God values a person's life. He does not attribute value based on perceived earthly contributions.  No, with God, all life is precious. From conception to the grave, God values all life as important and valuable.Main Points:1. One of the most controversial issues of our lifetime has been that of abortion. The question at the heart of this debate is, “When does life begin?” Does it begin at conception or does it begin at birth? Does it begin at some other point during the pregnancy?2. Because life originates with God. All life is precious to him. Every life has worth to God. The unborn child in the womb is valuable to God. The handicapped person is valuable to God. Those with mental illness are valuable to God. The elderly in a nursing home are valuable to God. All life is precious, and because of so, every life is worthy of dignity and respect.3. If we allow the Word of God to be authoritative in our lives, we'll align with God's view of human life. God is pro-life.Today's Scripture Verses:Jeremiah 1:5 - “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you…”Psalm 139:13 - “For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother's womb…”Job 31:15 - “Did not he who made me in the womb make him? And did not one fashion us in the womb?Genesis 1:27 - “So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them.”Psalm 127:3 - “Children are a heritage from the Lord, offspring a reward from him…"Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

It seems that memorizing scripture is a lost discipline in today's church culture. I rarely hear anyone talking about the verse they are memorizing, nor do I hear people reciting the verses they have learned by heart. Main Points:1. A generation ago, scripture memorization was practiced more regularly. It was talked about in the church. At home, families memorized Bible verses together and practiced quoting them to one another. I remember as a child, my family memorizing Romans chapters six and eight. We also memorized several of the Psalms. Amazingly, many years later, I can still recite many of these Bible verses by heart.2. When we memorize Bible verses, it allows us to internalize the Word of God. This deepens our spiritual understanding and helps us apply the scriptures to our daily lives.3. Putting the Word of God in our hearts and developing the ability to recite verses at any time gives us the strength to fight temptation.Today's Scripture Verses:Deuteronomy 11:18-19 - “Fix these words of mine in your hearts and minds; tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. Teach them to your children, talking about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.”Colossians 3:16 - “Let the Word of God dwell in you richly…” Psalm 1:1-2 - “Blessed is the one…whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law day and night.”Psalm 119:11 - “I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.”Psalm 37:31 - “The law of their God is in their hearts; their feet do not slip.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

Main Point. Victory turns into pride when we lose sight of the God who gave it. Driving Question: What happens to our hearts when we forget that victory comes from God? 1. Our Pride Resists God's Glory (1–21) Two Faces of Pride in Gideon: 1. People Pleasing Pride (1–3) “The fear of man lays a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord is safe.” – Prov 29:25 2. Controlling Pride (4–21) 2. Our Success Can Lead to Self-Glory (22–27) 3. Our Hearts Are Prone to Forget (28–35) “Take care lest you forget the LORD, who brought you out of Egypt – Deut. 6:12 Sinclair Ferguson: “The key to Christian growth is not trying harder, but remembering better— who Christ is and what He's done.” REMEMBER THE LORD. Remember His Cross and Resurrection “Do this in remembrance of me” (Luke 22:19) Remember His Faithfulness “He remembers His covenant forever” (Ps. 105:8) Remember His Word “He will bring to your remembrance all I have said” (John 14:26) Remember His Mercy “Forget not all His benefits.” (Ps. 103:2) Remember His Return “Behold, I am making all things new.” (Rev. 21:5) Remember Your Identity in Him “You were ransomed… with the precious blood of Christ.” (1 Pet. 1:18–19) “Remember Jesus Christ, risen from the dead” – 2 Tim 2:8 Takeaways from Judges 6–8. God meets us in our weakness—He doesn't wait for strength; He supplies it. Obedience starts at home—Tear down the idols closest to your heart, even when it's risky. Victory belongs to the Lord—God uses weakness to magnify His power and glory. Success often tempts us toward self-reliance—Beware when victory gives birth to vanity. Even good things become idols—when Christ is no longer the object of our faith. Spiritual forgetfulness is real—So remember the Lord daily, not just in crisis. God's mercy doesn't depend on perfect faith—but on His perfect faithfulness. Jesus is the King we've always needed—He rules not with pride, but with mercy and grace.

Main Point. Moses led the people to obey God completely.

Main Point. Moses led the people to obey God completely.

Today, you and I will say a lot of words. We have more ways to communicate than any previous generation. We speak, write, text, email, and use social media, all of which require a choice of words. Let's slow down, think before speaking, allow the Lord to give us wisdom, and choose our words carefully.Main Points:1. We might be tempted to think our words don't matter, but according to God, they do.  Jesus spoke about how our words reveal what is in our hearts.2. Our words are like a bucket of water dipped into a well.  If there is fresh water down deep, that's what comes out.  If what is below is stagnant, polluted, and diseased, that is what will come out.  In other words, “If the heart is clean, the words are clean.”  If the heart is contaminated, our words will expose it.3. Because our words have such an impact on others, we must ask God to give us wisdom in our daily interactions. Through our words we have the potential to bless, encourage, and inspire. We also have the potential to injure, discourage, and inflict emotional pain.Today's Scripture Verses:Ephesians 4:29  - “Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.”Luke 6:45 – “A good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and an evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of.”Ecclesiastes 10:12 - “Words from the mouth of the wise are gracious, but fools are consumed by their own lips.”Proverbs 15:7 - “The lips of the wise spread knowledge, but the hearts of fools are not upright.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

What's next? Isn't that the question many of us are asking? As humans, we are forward-looking. What does tomorrow hold? Many feel that God has a next season for their lives. We acknowledge that as long as we are living, God has a next step for our spiritual growth and purpose.Main Points:1. It's vital that we learn a great truth: God's next season for your life will require you to step out in faith. It always does. Your next opportunity, your next ministry, and your next season will necessitate that you take a step of faith to trust God. Why? God loves it when we trust Him. He wants His children to place their full faith in confidence in Him, believing that He is leading their lives.2. I've seen a lot of Christians get stuck and become stagnant. The thing holding them back is the fear of taking a step of faith. So, in a spiritual sense, they plateau. They are not moving forward. They are not experiencing the joy and excitement of living a journey of faith. 3. God is not asking us to step into a future without Him. God is not giving us a pep talk to say, “go ahead, you'll be alright.” No, God is walking ahead of us. He is leading the way. God goes before us. We follow.Today's Scripture Verses:Deuteronomy 31:8 - “The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.”Isaiah 52:12 - “For the LORD will go ahead of you; yes, the God of Israel will protect you from behind.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

The Holy Spirit is speaking to every believer in Jesus, and He's asking the question, “Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?” God wants to send every one of us into His Kingdom work. When we say, “Here am I, send me,” God will use our lives for His glory.Main Points:1. I've noticed over the years that the thing that keeps many Christians from stepping out in faith and allowing God to use their lives is that they disqualify themselves. Some feel unusable because of their past, their failures, and their mistakes. Others think God is looking for people who are more spiritual or more gifted.2. Notice in the verse with Isaiah, there are no qualifications listed. God was looking for one thing: availability. The old saying is still true: God is not looking for ability. He is looking for availability. 3. God is still searching for men and women who will say yes. He's looking for individuals who are willing to be sent and to be used by the Holy Spirit.Today's Scripture Verses:Isaiah 6:8 - “Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?” And I said, “Here am I. Send me!”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

Does God hear and answer every prayer? What is the connection between "righteousness" and answered prayer? Main Points:1. The word “righteous” – being in a right relationship with God.  We are intimidated by this.  The word “righteous” scares us because we know our own tendency to sin, but we need to understand that we receive our “righteousness” from Christ.  Romans says, “our own righteousness is like filthy rags.”2. While we cannot earn our righteous standing, we seek after a righteous lifestyle practically. We pursue righteousness when we pursue the character of Christ and desire holiness more than fleshly indulgence. We avoid the temptation to become self-righteous when we understand that true righteousness begins with godly humility.3. Remember, righteousness cannot be achieved apart from receiving the grace of God, but once we are saved, we are called to live a righteous life. As we do, God will honor our prayers with His response.Today's Scripture Verses:“If I had not confessed the sin in my heart, the Lord would not have listened.” (Psalm 66:18 NLT)“If a man shut his ears to the cry of the poor, he too will cry out and not be answered.” (Proverbs 21:13)“But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. That person should not expect to receive anything from the Lord.” (James 1:6-7)“When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures.” (James 4:3)”The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.” (James 5:16)“God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.” (2 Corinthians 5:21)Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

Greatness in the kingdom of God is rooted in humility and sacrificial service. So, we see that greatness is achievable for all of us. It's not dependent on your title, position, location, influence, or anything else. Greatness is achieved when we serve others. All of us can do this today.Main Points:1. Our culture sees greatness as record-breaking achievements, success, influence, power, position, fame, and notoriety. But God sees it differently.2. Consider this: Jesus, the Son of God, the King of Kings, chose to serve rather than be served. In a culture that revered positions of authority, Jesus shattered expectations by washing the disciples' feet and living a life marked by humility and selflessness.3. Whether in the workplace, our families, or communities, let us remember the example set by the ultimate servant-leader, Jesus Christ. May our lives reflect His humility, compassion, and commitment to serving others.Today's Scripture Verses:Mark 10:35-37 - “Then James and John, the sons of Zebedee, came to him. “Teacher,” they said, “we want you to do for us whatever we ask.” “What do you want me to do for you?” he asked. They replied, “Let one of us sit at your right and the other at your left in your glory.” Mark 10:42-25 - “Jesus called them together and said, “You know that those who are regarded as rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be slave of all. For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

Main Point. God saves by His power alone, not our strength, so that all the glory is His. Driving Question: Why does God lead us into weakness before He acts? 1. God Weakens Us to Display His Strength (1–8) 2. God Reassures Us to Strengthen Our Faith (9–15a) Two Observations. A. God's compassionate reassurance. B. Gideon's response. How does God reassure us of his promises today? Through Christ – (Heb. 1:1–2). Through His Word and Spirit – (2 Tim. 3:16; John 15:26). Through the Ordinances – (1 Cor. 11:26). Through His Church – (1 Thess 5:11; Heb 10:25). 3. God Delivers Us to Receive All Glory (15b–25) Takeaways. God saves by His power—not ours. God delights to use weakness—not strength. God alone deserves the glory—not man.

Unless the author of the Bible is  God, the scripture is simply the collection of ancient man's thoughts and idea, it might be uplighting and even inspiring, but we wouldn't consider it authoritative. Yet, if the author is truly God Almighty, then His words are as eternal as He is. His words are relevant for every generation. His words and life-changing are transformative.Main Points:1. There is a question today in our culture about the continued validity and relevance of the Bible. Many no longer consider the Scripture to be inspired by God and they certainly do not regard it to hold any kind of authority over their beliefs or actions. 2. The relevance and authority of the Bible are still in place, in fact they are eternal, because of its source, the very mouth of God.3. The Bible is the eternal, unchanging, always-relevant, Word of God. Through its pages we are introduced to the author. We come to know Him in a personal way and we are transformed.Today's Scripture Verses:2 Timothy 3:16-17 - “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.”2 Peter 1:21 - “For prophecy never had its origin in the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

Maybe today you feel alone. Perhaps due to your mistakes and failures you have isolated yourself from others. Maybe you are struggling and you wonder where God is. Possibly, you feel as if you are on the far side of the wilderness. Stand on this truth from God's Word: He will never leave you or forsake you.Main Points:1. This morning as I was reading my Bible, I found myself in Exodus chapter three. It's the story where Moses meets God at the burning bush. Six words leaped off the page as I read the familiar story. It says Moses was on “the far side of the wilderness.” Moses wasn't just in the wilderness, he was on the far side of the wilderness. What is the wilderness? The dictionary defines it as “an uncultivated, uninhabited, and inhospitable region.” In other words, Moses was as isolated as a person could get.2. Yet, on the far side of the wilderness, with not another person in sight, Moses was not alone. It's here Moses has a life-changing encounter with God. He is reminded he is not alone, he is not forgotten, and God's purpose for his life has not changed.3. Moses never forgot about the day he encountered God at the burning bush. It was a revelation of God's continued purpose and plan for his life, but the greater lesson for Moses was the necessity of God's presence. Today's Scripture Verses:Exodus 3:1 - "Now Moses was tending the flock of Jethro his father-in-law, the priest of Midian, and he led the flock to the far side of the wilderness..."Psalm 139:7-10 - “Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence? If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there. If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea, even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast.”Exodus 33:15-16 - “Then Moses said to him, “If your Presence does not go with us, do not send us up from here. How will anyone know that you are pleased with me and with your people unless you go with us? What else will distinguish me and your people from all the other people on the face of the earth?”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

God's power is immeasurable. You can't calculate or quantify the power of God. It is beyond what we can see, know, and understand. God's power is without limit. When we pray, God can do more than we ask or imagine.Main Points:1. Most of us, in our moments of despair, have cried out to Lord and asked, “God, can you meet my needs? Are you able to provide what I need?” Theologically, we know God can do anything. We know He has all power. We understand He is the creator of all things, yet, when our back is up against the wall, we question whether God can and will meet our needs. But as we read His Word, we learn of His power, His might, and His ability. In reality, the question is not “What can God do? But what can God not do?”2. There is no lack with God. God never runs out of resources. He is never in short supply of whatever we need. He is a God of abundance.3. Speak truth to your own soul. Stand upon the never-changing Word of God. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.Today's Scripture Verses:Ephesians 3:20 - “Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us…”Jeremiah 32:17 - “Sovereign Lord, you have made the heavens and the earth by your great power and outstretched arm. Nothing is too hard for you.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

What wind and waves have caught your attention? What storm has caused you to look away from Jesus? Let's learn what Peter learned. We must keep our eyes on Jesus. As the howl of the wind gets louder, we'll be tempted to become distracted. As the waves crash higher, we'll be enticed to look away. Main Points:1. Jesus is teaching us here that we are to keep our eyes on Him. No matter how big the storm is, Jesus is sufficient to see us through. The storm did not overwhelm Peter and his fellow disciples. Why? Because Jesus was with them.2. Let's hear the words of our savior. “You of little faith, why did you doubt?” In our humanity, we experience doubt when our problems become bigger to us than God. We battle doubt because we don't always know what God will do. We don't know how we will face this storm.3. Don't forget, you are not facing this storm alone. The one who is greater than the storm is with you. He has promised to never leave you or forsake you. He will get you out of the storm or he will get you through the storm. Either way, Jesus will be with you.Today's Scripture Verses:Matthew 14:26-33 - “When the disciples saw him walking on the lake, they were terrified. “It's a ghost,” they said, and cried out in fear. But Jesus immediately said to them: “Take courage! It is I. Don't be afraid.” “Lord, if it's you,” Peter replied, “tell me to come to you on the water.” “Come,” he said. Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus. But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, “Lord, save me!” Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. “You of little faith,” he said, “why did you doubt?” And when they climbed into the boat, the wind died down. Then those who were in the boat worshiped him, saying, “Truly you are the Son of God.” Hebrews 12:2 - “Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith…”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

On July 4th, President Trump officially signed the Big Beautiful Bill into law after being passed by the Senate and House of Representatives. KCSB's Emerson Good talks about the main points of the bill and its intended impacts.

The Spirit of God is not for sale. It is not a commodity that can be bought or sold. The power of God can only be received. It is to be used only for kingdom purposes. God, who knows our hearts, will never give us His anointing and power if He knows we have improper motives.Main Points:1. It's not wrong to want to be used by God. In fact, it's a wonderful desire. It's a holy desire. But an important question is: “Why do you want to be used by God? Why do you want His power in your life?” 2. If our ambition is to build our own kingdom, set up our own platform, and receive our own recognition, we will never be given the power of God.3. I believe today God freely gives His Holy Spirit to those with pure hearts and those who sincerely desire for God to use their lives for His glory.Today's Scripture Verses:Acts 8:20-24 - “But Peter replied, “May your money be destroyed with you for thinking God's gift can be bought! You can have no part in this, for your heart is not right with God. Repent of your wickedness and pray to the Lord. Perhaps he will forgive your evil thoughts, for I can see that you are full of bitter jealousy and are held captive by sin.  “Pray to the Lord for me,” Simon exclaimed, “that these terrible things you've said won't happen to me!”Jeremiah 17:10 - “I, the Lord, search all hearts and examine secret motives. I give all people their due rewards, according to what their actions deserve.”Psalm 115:1 - “Not to us, O LORD, not to us, but to Your name be the glory…”Revelation 4:11 - “You are worthy, O Lord our God, to receive glory and honor and power. For you created all things, and they exist because you created what you pleased.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

The Main Point of the Sermon: When life is tough, and you cannot make sense of what is going on, hold on to God's unfailing love.

Main Point. God sustains trembling faith that tears down idols and trusts His Word. Driving Question. What does real faith look like? 1. Faith tears down idols (25–32) 3 truths : 1. God starts reformation in the heart and home (25–26). 2. Faith obeys even when it trembles (27). 3. Bold faith can stir others to follow (28–32). Application. Faith starts at home by confronting hidden idols. Faith obeys, even when we feel afraid. Faith influences, as God uses trembling obedience to stir others. 2. Faith trusts God's word (33–40) 3 observations. 1. God clothed Gideon. 2. God's patience with weak faith. 3. God's word is sufficient. Takeaways God cares more about your heart than your public ministry. God honors trembling faith. God is patient with weak faith. True faith rests in Christ's finished work—not our performance.

It was your faith that brought you into a relationship with Jesus Christ. Faith was your response to the grace of God. The Bible says we are saved by our faith in Jesus. Yet, God is not just asking us for faith that leads to salvation. He's asking for daily faith.Main Points:1. Everyday, you and I live by faith. Every day we must trust God. We trust him for our spiritual growth. We place our faith in him to lead and guide our steps and our future. We live by faith as we put our families, their health, and safety in His hands. 2. Our knowledge is limited. We don't know what a day will bring. We certainly don't know what tomorrow holds for us. So, we live by faith. Daily, we choose to trust our lives to the hands of God. 3. I know sometimes I'm like Peter. I take my eyes off of Jesus and I begin to look at the wind and the waves. I've noticed that what I focus on gets bigger in my life. If I focus on life's circumstances and the uncertainties of tomorrow, they get larger in my mind. But if I intentionally focus on Jesus, He is magnified. Today's Scripture Verses:Matthew 14:29 - “Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus.”Matthew 14:30-31 - “But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, “Lord, save me!” Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. “You of little faith,” he said, “why did you doubt?”Galatians 2:20 - “I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

As I think about surrender, I'm reminded of how much of a struggle it can be for us. After all, surrender feels like losing. No one wants to raise the white flag of surrender.Main Points:1. We must see that everything we need is on the other side of surrendering our life to Jesus. As long as we are resistant and focused on ourselves, we'll miss out on what God could have done in and through our lives.2. In prayer, let's search our hearts today and listen for the Holy Spirit to address those areas of our own lives that we may not have surrendered to God.3. Let's experience the joy of a life fully surrendered to God. May we be able to truly say, “All to thee my blessed Savior, I surrender all.”Today's Scripture Verses:Mark 10:17-22 - “As Jesus was starting out on his way to Jerusalem, a man came running up to him, knelt down, and asked, “Good Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?” “Why do you call me good?” Jesus asked. “Only God is truly good. But to answer your question, you know the commandments: ‘You must not murder. You must not commit adultery. You must not steal. You must not testify falsely. You must not cheat anyone. Honor your father and mother.”  “Teacher,” the man replied, “I've obeyed all these commandments since I was young.” Looking at the man, Jesus felt genuine love for him. “There is still one thing you haven't done,” he told him. “Go and sell all your possessions and give the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.” At this the man's face fell, and he went away sad, for he had many possessions.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

The Bible reveals that one of the characteristics that is most damaging to our relationship with God and others is pride. Yet, most of us don't readily confess pride as a struggle. Perhaps, it's because pride is subtle and it's difficult to see in ourselves.Main Points:1. Pride is often described as the silent enemy of the soul, lurking in the shadows and hindering our relationship with God. It can be challenging to recognize pride within ourselves because it doesn't always reveal itself in overt ways.2. Pride blinds us to our faults and weaknesses. When pride lurks within us, we become defensive and resistant to feedback or correction. Instead of humbly acknowledging our shortcomings, we may find ourselves justifying our actions or blaming others. Pride convinces us that we are always right.3. So how do we combat pride and cultivate humility in our lives? The answer lies in following the example of Jesus Christ, who humbled Himself and became obedient to the will of God.Today's Scripture Verses:Proverbs 12:15 - "The way of fools seems right to them, but the wise listen to advice.”Psalm 139:23 - “Search me, O God, and know my heart.”Jeremiah 17:9 - “The heart is deceitful above all things, And desperately wicked; Who can know it?”Philippians 2:3-4 -  "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others."    Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

Isn't it incredible to think that before you and I were born, God already had a plan and a purpose for our lives? One of the ways God prepared us in advance is that He has given us spiritual gifts.Main Points:1. The Bible has a lot to say about spiritual gifts.  There are at least 20 of them listed in the Bible.  We don't have time to define them all today, but you can read about them in these passages of Scripture:  Romans 12, 1 Corinthians 12, and Ephesians 4.  Generally speaking, there are two categories: speaking gifts and serving gifts.  2. God would not have given you a spiritual gift unless He intended for you to use it. What a blessing it is to have received a gift from God!3. When we discover our gifts, use our gifts, and value the gifts of others, and when we connect with each other with one mind and mission, which is to glorify God and build His Kingdom, we fulfilling our life's purpose.Today's Scripture Verses:Ephesians 2:10 - “For we are God's handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”Romans 12:6 - “We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us.”1 Peter 4:10 - “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received…”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

God's heart beats with compassion for the lost, and He passionately seeks them out. As followers of Christ, we are invited into this search. We become part of the process by sharing the message of the Gospel with those around us. What is important to God, must be important to us.Main Points:1. Jesus' very purpose in coming to earth and dying for our sins was to seek and save the lost. Nothing matters more to God. 2. Let me remind you of this truth: The Gospel message is urgent. Every day people are dying and going into eternity lost in their sins. The only way of salvation is through faith in Jesus, yet many have never heard a clear and simple message of salvation.3. We have a message far more valuable than a cure for cancer, it is a cure for our sins. Only through Jesus there is salvation and forgiveness of our sins, which not only impacts our lives here and now, but also for eternity.Today's Scripture Verses:Luke 15:8-10 — “what woman, having ten silver coins, if she loses one coin, does not light a lamp and sweep the house and seek diligently until she finds it? And when she has found it, she calls together her friends and neighbors, saying, ‘Rejoice with me, for I have found the coin that I had lost.' Just so, I tell you, there is joy before the angels of God over one sinner who repents.”Luke 19:10 - “For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

As we continue to make our way through the Minor Prophets, we arrive at the smallest book of prophecy, the book of Obadiah. In just 21 verses, we see God's determination to restore His people through judgment on display in the destruction of Edom. We also learn four important lessons for our lives today about the destructive nature of pride and the trustworthy sovereignty of God, our good and just Judge.Main PointsThrough judgment, God will restore His people. Lesson #1: Obadiah reminds us of the destruction of pride. Lesson #2: Obadiah reminds us that God's people are saved through judgment.Lesson #3: Obadiah reminds us that God is just and will judge; this is good news.Lesson #4: Obadiah reminds us that the eternal kingdom is the Lord's.Key TakeawaysNapoleon is known for his pride. His pride led to his destruction. Similarly, the book of Obadiah tells about the pride and fall of the Edomites. Yet it also contains a message of hope that through judgment God will restore His people.God's indictment against Edom (vv. 1-2) is sent among the nations as a warning against pride. Verses 3-4 describe the Edomites' problem: their arrogance. God promised to oppose Edom for their pride.The Lord declares total devastation will come to Edom (vv. 5-9).Verses 10-14 demonstrate how this pride from Edom has manifested toward the Israelites, their blood relatives. They should have allied with Israel but instead, they were violent toward them because of their pride. In doing so, they opposed both God and God's people.Verse 15 is a key verse. It describes a reversal of fortune. Essentially, in colloquial terms, “what goes around comes around.” God promises the Edomites will drink a cup of judgment, bringing about their own demise by their destructive actions even as God Himself judges them for rejecting Him. Thus we see the balance between human responsibility and divine sovereignty. Obadiah's prophecy was fulfilled, and quickly. The Nabateans overthrew Edom. This was the prophecy's immediate fulfillment.But the ultimate fulfillment will be Jesus' second coming when God judges all the nations—the righteous unto salvation and unrighteous unto judgment.Verses 17-21 transitions from a message of destruction to a message of hope and restoration. Though God judged His people (see the book of Amos), a remnant remains and God will restore them.God's ultimate objective is the realization of His eternal kingdom to bless His people forever.Lesson #1: Obadiah reminds us of the destruction of pride. The Noah Webster Dictionary of 1828 defines pride this way: “Pride is inordinate self-esteem; an unreasonable conceit of one's own superiority in talents, beauty, wealth, accomplishments, rank or office, which manifests itself in lofty airs, distance, reserve, and often in contempt of others.”The ultimate expression of pride is living without an understanding and declaration of our desperate need for God.The most severe manifestation is the willful rejection of the triune God and His Word. All pride leads to destruction.Yet it's inherent in our fallen nature. Even as believers, our flesh wrestles with our new self in Christ. But God in His love allows the destructive consequences of pride to humble us and bring us to repentance.Lesson #2: Obadiah reminds us that God's people are saved through judgment.We have all acted in the sin of pride in opposition to God. And we are saved through judgment—God's judgment of sin poured out on Christ in our stead.Lesson #3: Obadiah reminds us that God is just and will judge; this is good news.God will right all wrongs. And He is a better Judge than we are. Vengeance is His (Romans 12:19-21). Lesson #4: Obadiah reminds us that the eternal kingdom is the Lord's.Justice is coming. This world is not our treasure. As we sing, “Though the nations rage and kingdoms rise and fall, there is still one King reigning over all; and I shall not fear, for this truth remains—that my God is the Ancient of Days.”The greatest declaration of pride is, “Lord, I don't need You.” May our humble declaration be, “Lord, I need You.”Discussion Questions/ApplicationPersonal application:Spend some time asking the Spirit to help you identify pride in your heart. How do you see pride show up in your life on a weekly/daily basis? How do you live as though you don't need God? How do you see apathy toward God show up in your life? If you have trouble, think through a recent conflict. How did your pride play a role? Are you experiencing any destructive consequences of pride right now?Consider: Do you see a holy hatred of pride growing in your life? How? If not, how can you begin—through the Holy Spirit's power—to cultivate it more?Discuss with your community group:What wrongs are you struggling with right now, desiring to see justice prevail? How can you more fully embrace God as our Judge and trust His timing and plan in this? Share about a time when pride led to destruction in your life. What happened? How did God use the consequences of your sin to lovingly discipline you and draw you to Him? How did you see James 4:4-10 at work?Passages ReferencedJames 4:4-10; Romans 3:23; Romans 6:23; Romans 12:19-21Worship Set List: The Passion, Firm Foundation (He Won't), Nothing Else, Death Was Arrested, Lord I Need You

The Bible teaches us we are to love God with our soul. This refers to the inner man. We are to love God with our emotions, feelings, intellect, and will.Main Points:1. To love God with all your soul is to love God with your entire inner life. This means everything your inner life experiences - everything you feel, decide, believe, think, choose, want, dwell on, turn to, and pursue – is about your soul. 2. The soul is about what makes you happy, what fills you with joy, where your sorrow and sadness is, and what gives you peace. All of these things you experience in your soul are to be related to your love for God. God wants a kind of love that “saturates” us.3. When you love God with all of your soul, you love Him with all that you are.Today's Scripture Verses:Matthew 16:26 – “What good will it be for a man if he gains the whole world, yet forfeits his soul? Or what can a man give in exchange for his soul?” Matthew 10:28 – “Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather, be afraid of the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell.”Psalm 62:5-6 -  “My soul finds rest in God alone; my salvation comes from him.  He alone is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will never be shaken. Psalm 63:1 - “O God, you are my God, earnestly I seek you; my soul thirsts for you, my body longs for you, in a dry and weary land where there is no water.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

Today's guest is Hunter Eisenhower, Associate Head Coach for Sports Performance at Arizona State Men's Basketball. With experience in the NBA and NCAA, Hunter blends force production qualities, data analysis, and variability-driven human training methods to build explosive, adaptable athletes. He's the creator of the “Force System” and a thought leader in modern athletic performance concepts. Most athletic performance training is centered around outputs. Movement abilities and qualities are discussed, but there isn't much quantification process that goes towards an athlete's raw abilities, such as variable jump strategies alongside stiffness and compliance competencies. On today's episode, Hunter shares his approach to offseason prep using general physical means that build that “human strength”—developing capacity alongside movement variability. Hunter also breaks down how he quantifies an athlete's movement capacities and library, their ability to, balance rigidity and compliance in line with force plate data. We wrap with ideas on foot training and using variable surfaces to meet the demands of dynamic sport. This is a great look at training beyond just big lifts—into the true movement needs of the game. Today's episode is brought to you by Hammer Strength and the Just Fly Sports Online Courses Check out the newest mini-course, Sprint Drills Reloaded on how to maximize sprint drills, their specific strength development, building of major sprint actions, along with better integration of sprint drills into sprinting technique. The special intro sale ends July 1st. (https://justflysports.thinkific.com/courses/sprint-drills-reloaded) Use the code "justfly25" for 25% off any Lila Exogen wearable resistance training, including the popular Exogen Calf Sleeves. For this offer, head to Lilateam.com View more podcast episodes at the podcast homepage. (https://www.just-fly-sports.com/podcast-home/) Main Points and Key Takeaways 2:00- Sandbags, Suffering, and the Mental Edge 6:00- Let Hard and Fun Coexist in Your Program 10:19- The Importance of Variability in Program Design 12:53- Early Off-Season Program Design 19:27- Rewild Your Program: Crawl, Climb, Wrestle, Hang 23:28- Rethink GPP: Don't Just Prep to Lift—Prep to Move 30:20- Break Barbell Monotony with Sandbags 34:49- Sleds Are a Movement Tool—Not Just a Finisher 41:03- Measure Movement Options—Not Just Output 48:39- Don't Confuse Explosive with Efficient 54:31- Train Variability by Changing the Rules 58:05- Cue for Change: Let the Jump Reveal the Strategy 59:50- Start with the Foot—It Tells the Whole Story 1:05:07- Polish Boxes, Stall Bars, and DIY Creativity Sandbags, Suffering, and the Mental Edge (2:00) Simple tasks like sandbag holds or dead hangs can reveal a lot about an athlete's mental state and fatigue tolerance. Sometimes mental state—not just strength—dictates how long you'll last under tension. What to try: Program weekly “grit sets”: sandbag holds, wall sits, or dead hangs. Try them first thing in the session—before the brain can talk itself out of effort. Pair them with journaling or a quick “mind state” score: how'd it feel today? Let Hard and Fun Coexist in Your Program (6:00) Every session can't be a competition. But not everyone should be brutal either. Hunter encourages toggling between “suck” and “play.” One makes you tougher, the other keeps you coming back. What to try: Alternate between gamified partner drills and long isometric work during your week. Use athlete feedback: which days feel “engaging”? Which feel like “grinding”? Both matter. Build polarity into the week—not just into the periodization model. The Importance of Variability in Program Design (10:19) Sticking to one type of stimulus flattens the athlete's capacity. Instead, training should live across a spectrum—fun to miserable, slow to fast, light to heavy.

I believe in the imminent return of Christ, meaning I believe Jesus could come back at any time. Today could be the day of Christ's return. Today could be the day of the rapture of the church. Are you ready for Jesus to come back? Are you living like Jesus is coming back today?Main Points:1.  Let me remind you that Jesus is indeed coming back. Scripture foretold the birth of Jesus, and it was fulfilled. The Bible described the death and resurrection of Christ, and it happened as the prophecy foretold. Likewise, the Scripture has promised the return of Jesus. The God who has spoken will fulfill His Word.2. So, what does it mean to live like Jesus is coming back? It means being prepared. It means living with our hearts on God and his will for our lives. It means being focused on the work He has called us to do. Living like Jesus is coming back at any time causes us to live sober lives. It calls us to live in holiness and righteousness.3. Jesus is coming back, and He is coming back soon. Are you ready? Are you prepared? Are you busy serving Him and fulfilling His purpose for your life? Today's Scripture Verses:John 14:2-4 - “There is more than enough room in my Father's home. If this were not so, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you? When everything is ready, I will come and get you, so that you will always be with me where I am.”Revelation 22:20 - “He who is the faithful witness to all these things says, “Yes, I am coming soon!”1 Thessalonians 5:2 - “…the day of the Lord's return will come unexpectedly, like a thief in the night.” Quick Links:Subscribe to The 5 Minute Discipleship NewsletterDonate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

If there is anything constant about the world we live in, it is that things are going to change. We may not like it, we may not want to embrace the change, but nothing in this life is static. Except God.Main Points:1. Think about it. God's love never changes. His character will not change. His power, strength, and abilities never change. His knowledge, understanding, and wisdom cannot change. His love, grace, and mercy will never change. His Word and His truth cannot change.2. The truth that God never changes brings comfort and encouragement to our lives. What God has promised, He will do. God will never change His mind. He will never compromise His character. He will always stay true to who He is. He will always be holy, righteous, and pure.3. The truth that God never changes also reminds us that the instructions and commands in His Word never change. What God has said about obedience and holy living doesn't change, even though it doesn't make sense to our culture.Today's Scripture Verses:Isaiah 40:8 - “The grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of our God endures forever.”Malachi 3:6 - “For I the Lord do not change…”Matthew 24:35 - “Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away” Hebrews 13:8 - “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

The Bible clearly describes God love for us. If you want to focus on one aspect of God's character today, remember this great truth: You are deeply loved by God. Our Heavenly Father doesn't just express love. The Bible says He is love.Main Points:1. The love we have received from God is undeserved. It is unmerited. We are unworthy of such great love, yet it doesn't stop God from loving us.2. There are a lot of people who will love you if you show them love. But in the case of God, He is the initiator.  He does not respond to our love for Him.  He loved us before we ever cared about Him and before we ever knew Him.3. One of the proofs of God's love is that it is sacrificial. The scripture says God sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins.”Today's Scripture Verses:1 John 4:7-8 – “Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God.  Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love.”1 John 4:9-10 – “This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him. This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins.”1 Corinthians 13:4-6 - “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.  It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.  Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.  It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

Why has the Lord blessed us with so much? Why has God been so generous to us? Why has He met our needs and so much more? The answer is, so that we will use the blessings we have been give to be a blessing to others.Main Points:1. God wants our lives to be a conduit or a channel of blessing to others. If God can get it through you, God will get it to you. 2. One of the fears that keep people from being generous is the thought that they will not have enough for themselves. Yet, if we are generous, God has promised to keep blessing us.3. Where in your life is God calling you to be a blessing? Who has God put on your heart? Where is the Lord leading you to invest your resources, time, wisdom, and experience? Where can you use your spiritual gifts and talents to bless others?Today's Scripture Verses:Genesis 12:1-2 - “The Lord had said to Abram, “Go from your country, your people and your father's household to the land I will show you. I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing.”2 Corinthians 9:8 - “And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.”Psalm 24:1 - “The earth is the Lord's, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it…”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

Today, you and I live in the river of a rapidly moving culture.  It's a culture that is rapidly moving away from truth, righteousness, and morality. It's a culture as the Bible defines that “does what is right in its own eyes.” As a Christian, who has been called by God and identified by God, you have to swim. With the power of the Holy Spirit, you can swim against this culture. You don't have to get swept away.Main Points:1. The New Testament teaches us that while we are in the world, we are not of the world. We live in this present world, but we do not embrace the values of a world that is rapidly moving away from biblical values. What do we do? We swim. We swim against this fast-moving current. 2. So, how do we swim? First, we swim by ensuring that our hearts and minds are filled with the Word of God. This is essential. Without knowing the truth, we won't know which values to embrace and which ones to reject. Knowing the truth is vital. Let's make sure that every single day we are spending time in God's Word. Read it, memorize it, meditate on it, and obey it.3. Next, develop strong biblical convictions. In other words, know what you believe. Where do you stand? What strongly held beliefs have you developed based on what the Bible has to say? Biblical convictions help us know where the lines are that we will not cross. These convictions are not simply opinions, ideas, or viewpoints. They are deeply held beliefs that impact our lifestyle.Today's Scripture Verses:Romans 12:2 - “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind.”1 John 2:15 - “Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him.”1 Peter 3:15-16 - “if someone asks about your hope as a believer, always be ready to explain it. But do this in a gentle and respectful way…”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

We are all aware of the spiritual battle that rages. We do have an adversary. We do have opposition. We are in a fight but find encouragement in these verses. Christ Jesus will place us on a firm foundation. He is our firm foundation. He is the rock we have built our lives upon, and He cannot be moved.Main Points:1. No matter how fierce the fight, no matter how difficult the battle, our firm foundation is not shaken. Yes, we have to stand firm. Yes, we must be strong in the faith. But all the while, we remember that our suffering is not forever. The promise from these verses is that we will share in God's eternal glory. 2. In this life we are constantly reminded of the spiritual battle that rages around us. Like a prowling lion, our adversary seeks to devour us, tear down our faith, and rob us of our hope. Yet, amid this struggle, we find reassurance and strength in the unshakeable foundation of Christ.3. Peter's words speak to us today, urging us to be alert and sober-minded. We cannot afford to be complacent or unaware of the dangers that surround us. The enemy's attacks may come in various forms – doubts, temptations, trials, and tribulations – but we are called to stand firm in the faith.Today's Scripture Verses:1 Peter 5:8-11 - “Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour. Stand firm against him, and be strong in your faith. Remember that your family of believers all over the world is going through the same kind of suffering you are.  In his kindness God called you to share in his eternal glory by means of Christ Jesus. So after you have suffered a little while, he will restore, support, and strengthen you, and he will place you on a firm foundation. All power to him forever! Amen.”Isaiah 33:6 - “In that day he will be your sure foundation, providing a rich store of salvation, wisdom, and knowledge. The fear of the Lord will be your treasure.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

The scripture says to us, “don't forget about all of God's benefits. Amid life's challenges, don't forget about all the good things God has done for you.”Main Points:1. Even when life is good and our struggles are minimal, it's easy for us to forget what the Lord has done. In the hustle and bustle of life, it's easy to become consumed by our daily routines, obligations, and distractions. Our minds can be preoccupied with tasks, worries, and plans, leaving little room to stop and reflect on the goodness of God. 2. These encouraging verses remind us that the Lord is our forgiver, healer, redeemer, provider, satisfier, and renewer. How could we forget that? And yet we often do.3. As David writes this Psalm, he implores his soul to bless the Lord and to remember His goodness. It's a call to intentional reflection, a conscious effort to pause and acknowledge the hand of God at work in our lives. Today's Scripture Verses:Psalm 103:1-5 - “Praise the Lord, my soul; all my inmost being, praise his holy name. Praise the Lord, my soul, and forget not all his benefits—who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit and crowns you with love and compassion, who satisfies your desires with good things so that your youth is renewed like the eagle's.”Psalm 105:5 - “Remember the wonders he has done, his miracles, and the judgments he pronounced…”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

If you've been around here for a while, you already know—I'm an email marketing geek. Not the kind of geek who builds robots in her basement, but the kind who gets excited about subject lines and open rates the way some folks get excited about the first tulips of the season. That's why chatting with Ellen McDowell Strauss felt like talking to an old friend who also happens to alphabetize her spice rack. Ellen and I first connected over our mutual affection for email, but our latest conversation had a more urgent tone—thanks to Microsoft's recent announcement that could throw a wrench in the way we all send emails. If email is your small business's secret weapon, it's time to sharpen it. Main Points from the Conversation: Microsoft's Email Policy Changes Microsoft has announced stricter deliverability rules—emails that don't get opened or clicked may not make it into inboxes at all, even if the sender is marked safe. This shift will force marketers to pay more attention to engagement metrics like never before. List Hygiene is No Longer Optional Holding onto disengaged subscribers could hurt your deliverability. Cleaning out your list—removing folks who haven't opened or clicked in 6–12 months—isn't just good housekeeping, it's mission critical. Quality Over Quantity Big lists are out, and meaningful lists are in. A smaller, engaged audience is far more valuable than a bloated list of people who aren't paying attention. Smaller Campaigns, Better Results Ellen suggests sending smaller, staggered campaigns to improve sender reputation. Large blasts might raise red flags, even if your content is solid. Strategic Email for Every Stage Email can't be one-size-fits-all anymore. You need tailored messages for prospects, new clients, and past clients—each stage should feel intentional and personal, not like you're just checking a box. Actionable Takeaways: Audit Your List: Check who's been opening and clicking. If someone's been snoozing for over 6–9 months, it may be time to let them go—or offer a re-engagement path. Segment Your Sends: Break your list into smaller groups and stagger your email sends to improve visibility and avoid being flagged. Lean on Third-Party Tools: Ditch BCC blasts. Use trusted email marketing platforms (like Constant Contact, Mailchimp, or Robly) that work hand-in-hand with email providers to boost deliverability. Craft Content with a Purpose: Make every email part of a bigger story. Whether it's educating, engaging, or asking for a review, know your audience and meet them where they are. Rethink “Set It and Forget It”: Email marketing isn't a crockpot dinner. It's more like sourdough—needs regular attention, care, and a little love.  

Who is Jesus Christ?  This is the most important question you will ever be asked. A good man? A great teacher? A revolutionary leader? Or is he the Christ, the Son of the Living God?  Who was he? Who is he? Your eternal destiny hangs on your answer.Main Points:1. Jesus came as a savior and as a king, but not an earthly one. He came for a greater purpose. He came to save us from a greater oppression than a Roman army. He came to save us from our sins, that which would keep us from God for eternity. He came to be the King of our hearts.2. This brings us to an important question. Who is this? “Who is Jesus?”  Is he just a historical figure, a religious leader, a philosopher, and a teacher? Was he a revolutionary and a political rebel? Is he an imaginary person and a myth? Or is Jesus the Messiah, the King of the Jews, a Savior, and God in the flesh?3. Have the courage today to put your faith in him and trust him as the savior of your soul.Today's Scripture Verses:Matthew 21:10-11 - “When Jesus entered Jerusalem, the whole city was stirred and asked, “Who is this?” The crowds answered, “This is Jesus, the prophet from Nazareth in Galilee.”John 1:1.2.14 - “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.”Jesus is our Savior - Matthew 1:21 - "She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.”Jesus is our King - Philippians 2:9-11 - “Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

How do you fan into flame a gift God has given to you? You do it by faith, laying hold of the promises of provision God has made to you.