Podcasts about spiritual disciplines

The way we spend our time and the practices we employ shape and refine us as people and as followers of Christ. A household that is praying, reading God's word, and more will be spiritually nourished for life's highs and lows. How can we begin to implement these practices in our own households to the blessing of its members and those we come in contact with?

The Secret Battle Most Men Are Losing (But Can't Afford To)Most men aren't falling in public—they're falling in private.In this powerful and deeply personal video, Red Wallace—Legacy Identity Coach and founder of the Better Than Best Academy—reveals how a quiet lack of self-control is silently sabotaging men's leadership, marriages, and fatherhood.Through vulnerable stories and biblical truth, Red shows why true strength isn't loud—it's restrained, and why mastering your emotions isn't optional if you want to build a legacy that lasts.

Welcome back to another episode of our new podcast series, "Truth for Our Lives." Throughout this series, we will be addressing some foundational elements of the Christian faith and how they impact the way we live as followers of Jesus!In this episode, Brent, Kenzie, and Logan discuss what we often call "spiritual disciplines." They touch on the "why" behind the spiritual disciplines, why as Christians we stress the importance of frequent bible reading, prayer, and other things that fall under the category of spiritual disciplines. They also discuss some practical tips to prioritize spiritual disciplines to cultivate a life of spiritual growth and "walking by the Spirit." We hope you're encouraged by this podcast! If you have questions about our church or what it means to follow Jesus, we'd love to hear from you! Check out our Instagram @fellowshipya, website www.fellowshipar.com/young-adults, or send us at email at youngadults@fellowshipar.com.

If you've ever trained for something—whether a sport, a marathon, or even a mission—you know it takes more than desire. It takes discipline. And when it comes to your walk with Christ, there's no shortcut around it: discipline is discipleship in motion. The Spirit leads, but discipline builds the runway.Our springboard for today's discussion is:“Train yourself for godliness; for while bodily training is of some value, godliness is of value in every way…” — 1 Timothy 4:7b–8aWe've glorified the idea of faith but forgotten the grind of faithfulness. Spiritual disciplines—like prayer, fasting, studying Scripture, solitude, worship, and giving—are not legalistic chores. They are training grounds for intimacy.Think about this: no soldier walks onto a battlefield untrained. No athlete wins a race without practice. Why then do we expect spiritual victory without spiritual discipline?The early Church didn't just “feel inspired.” They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching, the breaking of bread, prayer, and fellowship. They practiced what we now call spiritual disciplines—and the result? Power. Unity. Awe. Miracles.Discipline isn't the opposite of grace—it's the response to it. God has given you full access to His voice, His power, and His Word. Discipline is how we show up to receive it.Yes, discipline takes effort. But the reward is a spiritual life that's rooted, not tossed around by emotion or circumstance.Question of the Day:Which spiritual discipline do you need to strengthen right now—and what's stopping you?Mini Call to Action:Pick one discipline—just one—and commit to practicing it daily this week. Don't wait for motivation. Build the habit, and the hunger will follow.Let's Get To Work!God's warriors are forged in secret places. Train now—so when the battle comes, you stand like steel.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

On this episode, we finish our walk through the book If God Already Knows, Why Pray? by Doug Kelly! 

If you've ever trained for something—whether a sport, a marathon, or even a mission—you know it takes more than desire. It takes discipline. And when it comes to your walk with Christ, there's no shortcut around it: discipline is discipleship in motion. The Spirit leads, but discipline builds the runway.Our springboard for today's discussion is:“Train yourself for godliness; for while bodily training is of some value, godliness is of value in every way…” — 1 Timothy 4:7b–8aWe've glorified the idea of faith but forgotten the grind of faithfulness. Spiritual disciplines—like prayer, fasting, studying Scripture, solitude, worship, and giving—are not legalistic chores. They are training grounds for intimacy.Think about this: no soldier walks onto a battlefield untrained. No athlete wins a race without practice. Why then do we expect spiritual victory without spiritual discipline?The early Church didn't just “feel inspired.” They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching, the breaking of bread, prayer, and fellowship. They practiced what we now call spiritual disciplines—and the result? Power. Unity. Awe. Miracles.Discipline isn't the opposite of grace—it's the response to it. God has given you full access to His voice, His power, and His Word. Discipline is how we show up to receive it.Yes, discipline takes effort. But the reward is a spiritual life that's rooted, not tossed around by emotion or circumstance.Question of the Day:Which spiritual discipline do you need to strengthen right now—and what's stopping you?Mini Call to Action:Pick one discipline—just one—and commit to practicing it daily this week. Don't wait for motivation. Build the habit, and the hunger will follow.Let's Get To Work!God's warriors are forged in secret places. Train now—so when the battle comes, you stand like steel.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

Are you wrestling with your purpose in life? Wondering, "Why am I here? What's my calling?" In this powerful Sunday morning sermon from #UnfilteredChurch, Pastor Chris Gregg dives deep into 1 Corinthians 9, unpacking how the Apostle Paul ran with gospel-driven purpose in every step. Drawing from Paul's defense of his apostleship—"Am I not an apostle? Have I not seen Jesus our Lord?"—Chris shows how purpose is rooted in calling, not comfort, and why we must lay down our rights for the gospel, just like Paul who said, "We endure anything rather than put an obstacle in the way of the gospel of Christ."Explore everyday examples like soldiers, farmers, and oxen deserving their share, and learn why Paul chose to preach freely: "Woe to me if I do not preach the gospel!" Discover the joy of serving others by becoming "all things to all people" through contextualization, not compromise—adapting to Jews, Gentiles, and the weak to win more for Christ. Plus, get inspired by the discipline of athletes in the Isthmian Games: "I do not run aimlessly; I discipline my body" for an imperishable crown.Chris ties it all to the mission of the church—running as a team with 5 ways to run together: Warm Up Well, Play Your Position, Stay With the Pack, Give Your Best Effort, and Recruit to the Team. No matter your age or stage, from survival in your 20s to succession in your 70s, God has purpose for every season of life. End with Paul's humility: from "apostle" to "chief of sinners," running not out of guilt, but gratitude for grace because Jesus ran to the cross for us.If you're tired of spiritual sprints and ready for rhythms that align your life with eternal rewards, this sermon will challenge you: "Holy Spirit, what's my next step?" Don't miss this life-changing message on purpose, calling, laying down rights, serving others, spiritual discipline, and the gospel's blessings!Subscribe for more #UnfilteredChurch sermons, hit the like button if this resonated, and comment below: What's one right you're willing to surrender for the gospel? Share with a friend who's searching for purpose! #RunWithPurpose #1Corinthians9 #GospelDriven #SpiritualDiscipline #ChurchMissionTimestamps:0:00 - Intro: Wrestling with Purpose2:45 - Purpose Rooted in Calling, Not Comfort7:30 - Laying Down Rights for the Gospel12:15 - Serving Others to Win More17:00 - Spiritual Discipline for Eternal Prize22:45 - Aligning with the Church's Mission28:10 - Purpose in Every Season of Life33:20 - Response: Run with Gratitude

Guest speaker Pastor Bob Harrison brings a message all about how we can have an accurate and applicable grasp on the Bible.

In our last week of this series on the disciplines, we get as practical as we can - we hope this series blesses you in all your efforts to know Christ!

The power for the spiritual disciplines doesn't come from within ourselves, or our own strength. The power to live the Christian life, the power to stand strong in the faith, what completes the armor of God, is prayer.

For young adults, a silent and solitary style of life is often not something we pursue, or even aspire to. Jesus modeled a life like this, and calls us to follow him. Listen here to hear how you can follow Jesus in this way.

In this episode, Pastor Urshan discusses building spiritual disciplines so that they become organic rhythms in our daily lives.

In today's devotional, Dr. Michael A. Youssef explains how a church can respond lovingly and Biblically when a believer is unrepentant. If you would like more insight into today's devotional topic, watch or listen to Dr. Michael A. Youssef's sermon Healthy Living in a Sick World, Part 7: WATCH NOW | LISTEN NOW

Pastor Sean Azzaro shares his early morning routine, which includes a deep spiritual discipline of reading the Bible, praying, and seeking the Lord's guidance. The conversation also touches on church governance, the importance of elders, and maintaining spiritual accountability and integrity within church leadership. And it's also the first utterance of #GoBears.00:00 Introduction and NFL Season Excitement01:01 Morning Routine and Spiritual Practices02:14 The Importance of Daily Bible Reading04:57 Discussing Church Governance14:23 Qualifications and Selection of Elders23:15 Upcoming Church Events and Services25:02 Closing Prayer and Ref

Pastor Sean Azzaro shares his early morning routine, which includes a deep spiritual discipline of reading the Bible, praying, and seeking the Lord's guidance. The conversation also touches on church governance, the importance of elders, and maintaining spiritual accountability and integrity within church leadership. And it's also the first utterance of #GoBears.00:00 Introduction and NFL Season Excitement01:01 Morning Routine and Spiritual Practices02:14 The Importance of Daily Bible Reading04:57 Discussing Church Governance14:23 Qualifications and Selection of Elders23:15 Upcoming Church Events and Services25:02 Closing Prayer and Ref

We begin a new series in our Sunday Night Lectures looking at the Spiritual Disciplines in the Christian Life. We start by looking through the book by Doug Kelly If God Already Knows, Why Pray? 

IntroductionGood morning. We've been journeying through Proverbs this summer, exploring themes like justice, the poor, listening, trust, and wealth. As an executive and non-staff elder, I was asked to speak on priorities, a topic I'm deeply familiar with. I expected to find a lot about time management, but what Proverbs really emphasizes is a different kind of priority: who we are becoming over what we are doing. Tim Keller says it best: the book doesn't talk as much about how God guides as it does about who God guides.Scripture ReferencesProverbs 4:20-23, Proverbs 3:13-15, Proverbs 16:18-19, Proverbs 12:1-2, Proverbs 2:7-8, Micah 6:8, Ephesians 5:15-17Key PointsThe Primary Priority: The HeartProverbs 4:23 says, "Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it." (NIV) The word "vigilance"—close and continuous attention—is used here for the only time in Proverbs. Our inner life is under attack from anxiety and fractured relationships, yet we often prioritize our to-do lists over our hearts. The true test of our inner life is our level of peace. If we don't prioritize our hearts, the "streams of life" will dry up.Three Habits to Revive the HeartPrioritizing God and His Wisdom: This is the most repeated command in Proverbs. Wisdom is more precious than jewels (Proverbs 3:13-15). It's simple, yet hard for our distracted generation. Studies show it takes over 23 minutes to refocus after distraction. To combat this, create space and silence. Consider using a pen and paper to read and journal, which boosts focus and deeper thinking.Embracing Humility: Pride leads to destruction (Proverbs 16:18). It's exhausting to carry a narrative of superiority and separates us from God and others. Humility, however, is a balm that heals. It recognizes our limitations, encourages receptiveness to correction, and leads to healing and refreshment (Proverbs 3:7-8). Turn at reproof, especially from the Lord or those who love you, and He will pour out His Spirit.Pursuing Wholeness (Integrity): Integrity, or wholeness, means living without duplicity. It's not just honesty, but the alignment of what we believe with what we do. The "crookedness of the treacherous" destroys them (Proverbs 11:3). Often, we lack integrity because we are afraid of what others will think. But the Lord is a shield to those who pursue wholeness, protecting those who take the risk to expose their fractures and secret sins (Proverbs 2:7).ConclusionOur inner lives must be a priority. We must be vigilant about our hearts, as the Lord commands. If we take up these habits—seeking wisdom, embracing humility, and pursuing wholeness—the Lord will give us back tenfold what we sacrifice, and "streams of living water" will flow from our hearts. Seek first the Kingdom of God, and all these things will be added to you.Calls to ActionAcknowledge your inner state: Take a moment to honestly assess the condition of your heart.Create time: Schedule time for God's Word, prayer, and silence to combat distraction. Consider writing by hand.Embrace Humility: Open your heart to correction from the Lord and those who care for you.Pursue Wholeness: Take the risk to expose a hidden struggle or area of your life that's fractured. Trust that the Lord will be your shield. Support the show*Summaries and transcripts are generated using AI. Please notify us if you find any errors.

Pastor Drew Zylstra preaches from Zechariah 8:18-19, “Fasting for the Future.” —————————— More […]

Based on the sermon about 1 Timothy 4, this message outlines what it means to be a "good minister of Jesus Christ." It argues that this isn't just a title for pastors, but a calling for every believer. The sermon encourages listeners to be nourished by God's Word, to practice spiritual discipline, and to live a life that is an example to others. It calls for believers to labor for the gospel, teach with biblical authority, and be faithful in using their God-given gifts for His purpose. Ultimately, the message is a powerful guide for any Christian seeking to grow in their faith and be a dedicated servant of God

Good Shepherd UMC

Prophecy Watchers Rapture Kit Radio Show Package The Great Last Days Apostasy (Dr. Hixson's new book) NBW Ministries website Newsletter Signup NBW Ministries store Spirit of the False Prophet Audiobook YouTube Rumble Podbean Spirit of the False Prophet Spirit of the Antichrist Volume One Spirit of the Antichrist Volume Two Apostasy, Spiritual Discipline, Church, Bible, Not By Works

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Join Marc and Fuller as we start a new series called "RTC On The Road!" In this episode, Marc and Fuller are heading to an RTC listener's wedding and had some real, honest conversations. In this episode, they talk about three different questions, asked by RTC listeners. These questions are: "What's one way to stay spiritually disciplined when traveling or outside of routine?" "What's the difference between conviction and guilt in a Christian life?" "What's one mistake you made in your faith journey that taught you a lot?" You can learn more about our season 7 announcement by reading more below or visiting us online at https://realtalkchristianpodcast.com.   ––– A couple years ago, we changed up Real Talk Christian Podcast: Tighter episodes Less banter (that didn't last too long did it ) Every other week episodes We know that many folks want either (a) more episodes (b) more honest conversations from the heart. Honestly, we can't provide (a), but we are gunna provide (b)!   For the first handle of episodes of season 7, we're trying something different! We are going to be doing "RTC On The Road" where Fuller and I record honest conversations while driving around to different places!   Sure, it may not have the same flavor (and we definitely don't have show notes in front of us), but we're hoping that by us getting back to the roots of "real talk," you'll be able to join us in the honest conversations and honest processing of the Christian faith.

Send us a textIn this honest, Spirit-led episode, I'm sharing five things I'm doing lately that are posturing my heart to live and walk in the Spirit—especially in the chaos, leadership, and everyday decisions of life, marriage, and business.These aren't productivity hacks. They're postures of surrender. And if you've been craving deeper intimacy with God or struggling to hear Him clearly, this conversation is your invitation to come back to center.I cover:How physical posture affects spiritual sensitivityThe spiritual weight of food, fitness, and fastingWhen God is silent… and what to doWhy obedience often precedes clarityWhat happens when we stop trying to “perform” for GodWhether you're leading a movement or just trying to make it through the day with integrity and peace, these recalibrations will help you slow down and surrender with boldness. Support the showChelsey Holm | the Wife Coach "I help Christian wives flourish deeply as YOU in marriage, motherhood, and life."Grab my free training here: https://chelsey.coach/highlevelwife-freetraining2x certified Coach (John Maxwell Leadership, Kristen Boss SSLS)10+ years coaching experienceNASM-certified in Personal Training and NutritionMom of 5, Army wife 16 yearsSupport the show!The Chelsey Holm Podcast (The Chelsey Holm Podcast) It's hard to give your best when you don't feel your best- replenish your health with Ready Set Wellness: https://us.shaklee.com/site/chelseynoel/Nutrition/Ready-Set-Wellness/Ready-Set-Wellness-Bundle/p/89599

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Most Christians know the importance of taking their faith seriously. But getting too serious when it comes to spiritual disciplines or ministry responsibilities can miss God's heart for relationship. Thankfully, our loving and joyful Papa wants to help us move from duty into sharing his delight.Join us for this episode of Soul Talks as Bill and Kristi invite you to glorify God by enjoying the radiance of Jesus all around you! You'll learn to enjoy God through simple practices like sitting and relaxing, appreciating nature, and savoring time with friends. Resources for this Episode:Breath Prayer GuidesAttend a Soul Shepherding RetreatDonate to Support Soul Shepherding and Soul Talks

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Prophecy Watchers Rapture Kit Radio Show Package The Great Last Days Apostasy (Dr. Hixson's new book) NBW Ministries website Newsletter Signup NBW Ministries store Spirit of the False Prophet Audiobook YouTube Rumble Podbean Spirit of the False Prophet Spirit of the Antichrist Volume One Spirit of the Antichrist Volume Two Apostasy, Spiritual Discipline, Church, Bible, Not By Works

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In this solo episode, Bobby Bosler reflects on a summer of surprising stability while ministering from his new home base in Fairmont, West Virginia. Drawing from Psalm 15, he explores the traits of someone who is unshakable—not because of circumstances, but because of nearness to God. With biblical insight and practical challenges, this episode calls young listeners to examine their own lives and find spiritual stability in drawing close to the Lord.Topics DiscussedSummer gospel victories in West VirginiaHow Psalm 15 defines spiritual stabilityThe question: “Who shall dwell in thy holy hill?”What it means to walk blamelessly and obedientlyInternal honesty vs. self-deceptionThe dangers of slander and taking up offensesLearning to hate sin and love righteousnessKeeping your word, even when it hurtsManipulation, corruption, and integrity in relationshipsA call to walk near to God for unshakable stabilityKey TakeawaysSpiritual stability isn't about external calm—it's about internal nearness to God.Psalm 15 gives practical, convicting marks of the unshakable believer.God desires not just outward obedience but inward honesty and consistent integrity.The things that make us unstable—manipulation, slander, compromise—can be replaced by holy living if we draw near to God.Living close to God will expose sin and bring the strength to live unmovable. If you've been encouraged by this podcast, please take the time to give us a five-star rating and write a brief review. That would help tremendously in getting the word out and raising the visibility of the Thee Generation for others. For more faith inspiring resources and information about joining Thee Generation, please visit theegeneration.org.

Mark Clifton, Mark Hallock, Kyle Bueermann discuss an article from Chuck Lawless on why you and your church should be practicing the spiritual disciplines: The disciplines slow us down. They put us in a position to listen to God. They emphasize relationships. They force us to see where we place our dependence. They uncover the sin that’s hindering our walk with God. They correct our sins of omission. They prepare us to teach and lead others. They produce in us godly confidence and excitement. Resources Related to This Episode: “8 Reasons Spiritual Disciplines Matter” by Chuck Lawless

Main Question: How to explain your need for a day of silence to family and friendsResistance: Often comes from good people and deserves thoughtful communicationMaking a Plan: Plans stick; impulses fadeCalendar as a Tool: Helps visualize trade-offs and negotiate responsiblyLife Built by Consent: Recognizing past choices and agreements as part of transformationCoaching and Investment: Why hiring a coach signals seriousness about changeInvitation to Others: Change can become a witness to more life for everyone Links For Justin:Order In The Low - NEW Book with Scott EricksonCoaching with JustinOrder In Rest - New Book of PoemsOrder Sacred StridesJustinMcRoberts.comSupport this podcastNEW Single - Let GoNEW Music - Sliver of HopeNEW Music - The Dood and The BirdThe Book - It Is What You Make itHearts and Minds Amazon Barnes and Noble

Sloth kills callings—sometimes we pray, fast, and weep, but never move to build. Drawing inspiration from the story of Nehemiah, Dr. Gabe highlights the dangers of prolonged grief, the imperative of spiritual discipline, and an often-ignored enemy—the spirit of sloth. After seasons of prayer and fasting, step up to build what God has shown you.Support the showText encounteratl to 94000 to stay up-to-date on all things Encounter.Worship with EncounterSundays at 9 AM ET | Wednesdays at 7:30 PM ETSupport EncounterText egive to 77977 Connect with EncounterFacebook | Instagram | TikTok | YouTube | WebsiteConnect with Dr. GabeInstagram | YouTube | Website

As we continue through our sermon series on Spiritual Disciplines, hear Pastor Michael preach out of Matthew 6:1-4 on generosity. Is your generosity dependent upon the praise you get in return? Is there something you have been holding back? Be encouraged this week to help meet the needs of the people around us with open hearts.

Pastor Nick kicks off our final summer series talking about the discipline of Meditation - there are all kinds of meditation practices, and they can get confusing, overwhelming, and even unhelpful. In this message we seek to bring helpful definition, clarity, and encouragement to meditate in the ways that God calls us to and the ways that are good for faith in the son Jesus.

In this powerful conversation, Greg Nettle sits down with author and pastor John Ortberg to discuss his newest book, Steps: A Guide to Transforming Your Life When Willpower Isn't Enough. Drawing inspiration from the 12 Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous, Ortberg reveals why this recovery-based model may actually be the most effective path to real spiritual transformation—for everyone, not just those with addiction. The conversation covers: How AA emerged from discipleship roots in the Oxford Group Why most churches struggle with a “wimpy Step One” How to foster communities of grace-filled vulnerability The critical role of desperation, community, and daily practices in spiritual growth How churches can implement the Steps curriculum and even start B12 groups (Bible + 12 Steps) John also shares about his free daily vodcast ministry, Become New, and upcoming resources for small groups and churches based on Steps, launching Fall 2025. Whether you're planting a church or trying to revitalize one, this episode offers practical wisdom and a compelling vision for deep, lasting discipleship. We hope you enjoy this podcast. For more info about Stadia Church Planting and how you can get involved, check out stadia.org. To connect with Greg Nettle, you can find him at GregNettle.com Episode Index 01:10 - John's new book *Steps* and its origin in the 12 Steps   03:00 - Why *Steps* is for everyone, not just addiction recovery   04:20 - The spiritual roots of AA and the Oxford Group   06:00 - The power of weakness and the gift of desperation   08:00 - Greg shares a baby dedication story and his own approval addiction   10:20 - Why churches struggle with a “wimpy Step One”   12:00 - Biblical examples of desperation and robust transformation   13:20 - How desperation leads to discipleship intensity   14:00 - Discipleship as both program and fellowship   16:00 - Why church needs to be more like an AA meeting   17:30 - The power of confession and shared inadequacy   19:00 - Appropriate vulnerability for pastors and leaders   21:00 - How to help your church take real steps toward transformation   22:20 - Real-life church examples like the “B12 class”   24:00 - Free video curriculum for *Steps* coming Fall 2025   25:15 - Final thoughts: encouragement for church planters  

We keep asking for more of God — but have we made space for Him to move? In this message, Pastor Randy challenges us to stop chasing spiritual moments and start building spiritual habits. Repentance makes room. Discipline sustains the fire. And when we're emptied, God can truly fill us. It's not about feeling a spark — it's about living with fire.   From Sunday 07/20/2025

It's easy for all of us to get swept away by the powerful current of "doing more." Although too many responsibilities stress us out, we often don't realize that unconscious emotions and unmet needs drive us toward giving too much of ourselves. Thankfully we can learn to care for our souls with Jesus and approach life in God's Kingdom with a full tank. Join us for this episode of Soul Talks as Bill and Kristi dive into the psychology behind busyness. You'll become aware of the unique factors that keep you from prioritizing soul care so you can establish new rhythms with the Good Shepherd and serve others in freedom. Resources for this Episode:Healthy Feelings, Thriving Faith: Growing Emotionally and Spiritually Through the EnneagramSoul Shepherding Enneagram ResourcesDonate to Support Soul Shepherding and Soul Talks

This Sunday, Pastor Nathan concludes our series Leadership Book Club with a message based on the book, “Spiritual Disciplines for the Christian Life”. Notes can be found in the YouVersion app under Events. (Available for a week only, so click “save” if you want for later.)To learn more about Thrive and to see all our upcoming events visit our website:https://www.livewithpurpose.church/SOCIALS:ThriveCCAthensFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThriveCCAthens/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thriveccathens/GIVING:Giving Online: https://www.livewithpurpose.church/giveGiving By Mail: 610 ½ Old Tyler Highway Athens, Texas 75751YouVersion:Notes on YouVersion: http://bible.com/events/49464772You were made to thrive!

Intro:Good morning! We're navigating a tough week, having just hosted a funeral for Drew Hall, deeply loved in our community, who passed away in a climbing accident. Our hearts are with his wife and daughters. Next week, our Exeter church family, who we just prayed off, joins us for baptisms – this is the life of the church: joy and sorrow, but Jesus is always with us. Today, we delve into listening, a profound theme from Proverbs.Scripture References: Proverbs 2:1-5, Proverbs 5:1-2, Proverbs 22:17, Proverbs 13:1, Proverbs 15:31-32, Proverbs 4:20, Proverbs 5:1, Genesis 1, Psalm 33:6, Deuteronomy 6, Genesis 21:17, Proverbs 15:29, Luke 24:25-32Key Points:God Is Always Speaking, Calling Us to Listen:Proverbs emphasizes God's constant communication, urging us to be attentive listeners.The Seattle School of Theology's daily "chime" ritual reminds students their work is done in the presence of a living, speaking God.Listening for Wisdom and Instruction:Proverbs consistently calls us to listen for knowledge and understanding (Proverbs 2:1-5, 5:1-2, 22:17).It also stresses receiving instruction and discipline (Proverbs 13:1, 15:31-32). Embracing God's loving discipline transforms us.Proverbs' urgent tone (e.g., Proverbs 4:20, 5:1) highlights the gravity of listening to God's words. It's the single most important thing we can learn.Listening in God's Grand Story:Creation: From Genesis 1 ("Let there be light"), God speaks first. Our design is to listen and respond. Keith Anderson notes God's voice in creation is the first evidence of His love. Intentional listening means emptying our agenda, being curious, and present. Grab a "Five Ways to Practice Listening" card at the connect table!Old Testament (Shema): Deuteronomy 6 commands, "Listen, O Israel... love the Lord your God." Listening precedes loving. God's listening (e.g., Hagar and Ishmael in Genesis 21:17) isn't for His knowing, but to express His love, care, and that we are known (Proverbs 15:29). What He hears is never a barrier to His love.Jesus' Incarnation: Jesus often said, "Let anyone who has ears hear." The Road to Emmaus (Luke 24:25-32) shows disciples, disillusioned by Christ's crucifixion, unknowingly walking with Jesus. As He spoke, their hearts "burned." Encountering Jesus opens our ears and hearts to God's voice. Proximity to Jesus happens in simple, earthy ways (walking, sharing a meal, being with companions).The Problem is Connection, Not God's Speaking:Like the story of Pete Gregg unknowingly broadcasting his podcast, God is always speaking. The problem is often our connection.Busyness, disappointment, a cold heart, or distance from Jesus can hinder our listening. Our job is to approach God with intentionality, love, and closeness to Jesus.Conclusion:Our ability to listen to God is foundational. From creation to Jesus, God's story shows He actively speaks and listens out of love. This security allows us to confidently listen to Him.Call to Action:As we come to the table, remember Christ's presence bridges all distance. If your heart feels cold, or you need to know God hears you, pray with us. We'll worship and take communion, remembering Jesus, who perfectly embodied listening and drew close to us, offering new life. Be responsive to prayer; we want to connect you to Jesus. Support the show*Summaries and transcripts are generated using AI. Please notify us if you find any errors.

When you think of solitude - how do you feel? As we continue through our sermon series on Spiritual Disciplines, hear Pastor Ron preach on the very important practice of solitude with God. Whether it seems to come naturally or not - we can all be growing in our alone time with Christ.

You are in a battle, whether you realize it or not.In this episode of Behind The Mike Podcast, host Mike Stone uncovers the often invisible—but very real—realm of spiritual warfare. Drawing from Scripture, real-life examples, and the powerful imagery in Ephesians 6, Mike equips you with the tools you need to stand firm against the enemy's attacks.

In this message series, we've reflected upon disciplines that are crucial to Christian life. Now, Pr. Thomas, based on Luke 5, preaches about Fasting.

It can feel impossible to attune to Jesus' presence and hear his voice when so many stressors fight for our attention. Factors like health issues, relational tension, and the busyness of life and work make it challenging to genuinely sense Christ with us. Even still, Jesus speaks to the deepest desire of our hearts when he invites us to abide in him through all of life (John 15:5; 16:33).Tune in for this episode of Soul Talks as Bill and Kristi talk about the necessity of inner stillness in your relationship with Jesus. You'll be equipped with surprising ways to cultivate a centeredness with Jesus that integrate practicing spiritual disciplines with biblically-based psychology. Resources for this Episode:Attend a Soul Shepherding RetreatMeet with a Soul Shepherding Spiritual DirectorDonate to Support Soul Shepherding and Soul Talks

In this episode, Dr. Jim Van Gelderen speaks from Piedmont, Missouri, about the essential element that transforms truth into life change: application. He explains how biblical commands and principles must be practically implemented through Spirit-led standards. Drawing from personal stories and revival ministry experience, Dr. Jim urges young people to embrace conviction, avoid legalism, and courageously follow God's specific leading in their lives.Topics DiscussedWhat application is—and what it isn'tThe difference between commands, principles, and standardsWhy some standards differ based on personal past strugglesPractical examples of media, music, and technology applicationsThe difference between intrinsic wrongs and associational issuesThe Holy Spirit's role in grace-filled obedienceAvoiding legalism while still having strong standardsThe importance of responding to conviction immediatelyKey TakeawaysPreaching must lead to application or it's incomplete.Standards are personalized applications of God's Word, not legalistic rules.Different people will need different standards based on past experiences and weaknesses.The Holy Spirit leads both in conviction and in enabling you to live it out.Applications you make while young can protect and shape your entire life. If you've been encouraged by this podcast, please take the time to give us a five-star rating and write a brief review. That would help tremendously in getting the word out and raising the visibility of the Thee Generation for others. For more faith inspiring resources and information about joining Thee Generation, please visit theegeneration.org.

What if the path to healing your deepest wounds was also the key to discovering your life's purpose? In this powerful episode, I sit down with Regan Caruthers, a former Silicon Valley executive turned spiritual teacher, who shares her remarkable story of transformation—from trauma and corporate burnout to deep spiritual alignment. We talk about how she learned to listen to her still small voice, face overwhelming disconnection, and ultimately heal from trauma that began in childhood. Regan's journey is a testimony to how faith, inner strength, and spiritual discipline can help you overcome burnout and rediscover your calling. You'll learn: 

What are you most passionate about? Most Christians would respond by saying something like "loving Jesus" or "doing God's work." These are genuine expressions of devotion and warm Abba's heart. Yet it's true that all of us have hidden ruling passions (like loneliness, control, etc.) that can become the primary drivers of our motivation. Join us for this episode of Soul Talks as Bill talks with Dave Wiedis — founder of Serving Leaders Ministries and author of the new book The Spiritually Healthy Leader: Finding Freedom from Self-Sabotage. You'll learn how to grow in self-awareness and abandon yourself to God's care so that King Jesus becomes the supreme ruler of your heart and life. Resources for this Episode:The Spiritually Healthy Leader: Finding Freedom from Self-SabotageLearn More About Dave and Serving Leaders MinistriesAttend a Soul Shepherding RetreatMeet with a Soul Shepherding Spiritual DirectorDonate to Support Soul Shepherding and Soul Talks

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