The Teachable Heart: Recent Episodes
Dave Vitt
If we take a verse out of context and apply it to what God didn’t mean for it, we may walk away very disillusioned.
When the follower of Jesus dies, they leave the land of the dying and enter the land of the eternally living.
Fear may be your first response to bad news, but it doesn’t need to be your last response.
How can we discern between a skeptic who is genuinely open to listen, and a fool who is not?
Life had been so painful that he could not imagine ever experiencing anything good or pleasant again.
As a culture slips further away from biblical teaching, we should become more out of alignment within that culture.
Good hermeneutics requires us not to use a single verse to form conclusions about large topics (such as God’s love); we must consider the totality of Scripture’s teachings on a subject.
Paul picked himself up, dusted himself off, and quickly got his nose back to the grindstone.
Jesus stood silent through much of His trial, but when it came to His deity, He broke that silence.
Based upon Jonah's response to Nineveh's repentance, this message reminds us that anger is not always wrong, but it’s not always right either.
It’s only when we forget God’s mercy upon for us that we can wish God’s judgment upon others.
“The prize of Christianity is not heaven, it’s God.” (Keith Gibson)
Note: I inadvertently stated one quote was Romans 21:11; it should be Revelation 21:11.
You (along with your heart, soul, mind, and heart) were NOT created to see the multitude of images in the news today.
What most of us likely need is not more activity, but more rest – for the body and the mind.
Influencing our culture for Christ won’t just happen. We must be willing to work at it.
Jesus was excluded and rejected in His day, and we areinvited to walk to Him outside the camp as well.
When we’re wrapped up in any sort of disobedience toGod, we inevitably begin to distance ourselves from Him.
When you’re unsure how to pray, take comfort in the fact that the Spirit and the Son are praying on your behalf.
On at least two occasions in the New Testament, we are told to make the most of every opportunity.
As you face your earthly struggles, remember, God Almighty, the Lord of Heaven’s Armies is with you!
King Jehoshaphat set an example that is a good pattern for us to follow when difficulty overtakes us.
Just as there is only one road that will take you to the paradise that is Hilton Head Island, there's only one road which will take you to the Paradise that is heaven.
If God has granted you some wealth, don’t boast about it. Instead, be content to silently thank God for His many blessings.
No parent, including God, enjoys watching their children make poor choices which need correction.
“If I had to pick one religion that’s most likely to be true, based on a blend of historical grounding, internal coherence, and transformative impact, Christianity would probably top the list.” (ChatGPT)
“You do not know the worth of your Christian faith until you have compared it to others.” (Max Mueller)
A person who doesn’t believe in a product won’t get other people excited about it either.
“In case of great peril, the disciples of Christ may go out of the way of danger, though they must not go out of the way of duty.” --Matthew Henry
If asked which of his Christ-like qualities was his favorite, I think Paul would have said, “The next one.”
Driven by compassion, and a desire to comfort, God draws even nearer when your heart is breaking.
There’s a reason none of the others suspected him – he hadn’t shared the darkness in his heart with anyone.
If God’s goodness to us ended at the cross, “it would have beenenough.” But His goodness didn’t end there; it began there.
The obituary read in part, “He lived his life as one long thank-you to Jesus.” Could the same be said about us?
My desire for a righteous world won’t motivate anyone else to seek God’s approval. Yet the reverse is also true – the world’s lack of hunger for righteousness doesn’t need to reduce mine, or yours!
There is no joint ownership of true Christians; Jesus and Satan are not sharing custody of us.
It’s wise to quickly resolve a conflict when it arises. But it’s foolish to knowingly start one.
While a raised voice may get someone’s attention, gracious words are more likely to persuade them that what is being said is true.
If you’re still breathing, it’s an indication that God is still investing Himself in your life.
You were created by God and for God (Colossians 1:16). If you’re not living to bring Him delight and glory, you’re missing your main purpose in life
The Lord wants us to stop long enough to ask ourselves WHAT we’re doing, and WHY we’re doing it. (Haggai 1:9)
According to Jesus, a thorough understanding ofScripture is a strong defense against the world’s deception
Pride or humility? Which better describes you? One described our Savior (Matthew 11:29); the other is detestable to His Father.
How do we know when to step in and help, and when to refrain? Only God’s Spirit can help us discern between the two.
Instead of promising others that their circumstances will change, point them to the God who will not.
I’m sure your pastor wouldn’t mind preaching to a few more on Sunday mornings. Who could you invite?
Some things are too important to rush. Show the necessary patience to get it right the first time!
One only fully accepts correction when it’s been carefully applied. But when we apply correction, Scripture says we're being sensible.
When facing a challenging situation do you typically react emotionally, or do you respond biblically? Listen in to learn the difference.
Those with everything in this world are as dependent on God’s mercy as was the thief on the cross.
We absolutely will spend our entire lifetimes in this world rubbing shoulders with unbelievers.
Have you ever wondered how Friday night + Saturday night could be counted as three nights in the grave?
Christ did not come to be served, but to serve. Surely we are not above our Master in that regard!
If we are fully persuaded God will keep His word, we can be encouraged regardless of our circumstances.
Do others see Jesus in, and through, you? What can you do to leave a little Jesus in your wake?
How can we grow in humility as we grow in biblical knowledge? Here are five ways (courtesy of John Piper).
When the praise others receive collides with our pride – watch out! Sparks are likely to fly - unless we purposefully choose humility.
One thousand years from now, you will be more alive than you are today. Where will you find yourself?
Just as my kitchen junk drawer attracts and retains our household junk, so my heart attracts and retains junk too.
When our world is shaken, we’re to run to the Lord. He is always nearby and will always help us!
If you have a legitimate need, ask! You have a good, loving Father who cares for your needs and is more than able to meet them!
Paul said he belonged to God, meaning that his entire reason for existing was God. To whom do you belong?
The world will one day bow to Christ; until then, the church should not bow to the world.
Nothing can prevent God from fulfilling a single one of His promises. Because that’s true, He is worthy of our loyalty.
Early Christians changed the world because they had been radically changed by the gospel and well-equipped by the church.
A reminder from Paul taken from Acts 26:22. If we’re going to successfully serve God in any way, we’ll need to lean on God’s help and not our own ability.
Sharing this story in memory of my brother, Chris, who passed away four years ago today (4/28). The gospel is God’s main way of reaching the lost; but it may not be His only way!
Paul’s pre-conversation actions were driven by his opinions and his anger. What drives your actions?
When we know we stand right with God, joy is the result, and that joy gives us the strength to overcome whatever we face next.
Given the amount of exposure to worldly influences versus Bible training, it’s no wonder young people leave the home without a Christian worldview.
The Roman centurion knew nothing about the rules of God; yet, his humble faith in Christ amazed the Lord.
Based on a principle described in Numbers 30, this lesson reminds us that we frequently confirm the wrongs around us by our silence.
Like a garden, the heart has the potential to grow anynumber of things. What grows depends on what we plant and what we nurture.
Even with the 2.2 children and a house in the suburbs, I still faced the question, “Now what?”
If your hope is firmly grounded in Christ, then this lifetime is as bad as it’s gonna get for you.
Serving God through prayer is necessary, powerfully effective, and available to everyone!
A life that is deeply and genuinely rewarding is found not in getting, but in giving as we serve the Lord.
With our bodies, we will either harm ourselves or honor God.
1Corinthians #biblestudy #devotional #sex #purity #holiness #honor #GodsWill #relationships
For who? Listen and learn! A scapegoat is a person blamed for the misdeeds of others. It’s the fall-guy or the one thrown under the bus. Maybe you've used the term, but did you know where it came from?
Those who criticize Christianity the most may actually become the most curious about it. Never give up on them!
In light of the hope of eternal life, are you striving to have a clear conscience before God and men?
Iron cannot be sharpened by ice cream and marshmallows. We need a few in our lives who will tell us the hard truths.
God will measure our “success” by whether or not we were faithful to the call, not by how others respond.
Until we are at peace with God, our hearts will be restless; always longing; always searching.
Ever since the dawn of mankind, people have asked the bigquestions. You have the answer. Will you share it?
God can turn persecution into a platform from which we can share our hope in Christ with others.
Researchers have discovered that these are the two topics which consumer peoples’ minds as they near death.
God wanted His children freed for two primary reasons. For what purposes are you using your freedom?
Joseph was fruitful in Egypt not despite his suffering, but because of what he suffered. If you’re enduring pain today, look for the fruit that God will bring from it tomorrow.
Life is an opportunity from the Lord. What we do with it is a decision He’s left in our hands.
We’re to pray for workers to go into the harvest, AND we’re also to go ourselves – even if it means just going across the street.
Jesus saw those who did not yet believe in Him as sheep He wanted in His flock, not as His enemies to be hated.
We would have chosen a different means of getting right with God – and we would have been SO wrong!
God has created you on purpose for a purpose, and He reveals that purpose one step at a time. Just do the next right thing.
Our calls for directions from God should be accompanied by our cry of surrender to Him.
No matter how many yesterdays weren’t what we hoped for, today is full of potential because God’s never-ending love,compassion, and faithfulness!
The things which may appear as awful injustices to us initially might be used by God for our advantage.
Scripture teaches the benefits of slowing down, gathering facts, and listening to both before reaching a conclusion.
God used many imperfect people in the story He wanted to tell. Now He’s calling to you as well.
According to Scripture, waiting is good; but delaying, not so much! Today, we'll discuss the difference.
He had asked the hard questions. What was he living for? For what was he willing to die? What really mattered in thislife?
Jesus cared for others even while facing the reality of His upcoming death. Don't wait for circumstances to improve; help others now!
After several years of teaching, I began writing my own lesson plans, and class members encouraged me to send the “gold nuggets” from those plans in a follow-up email to the group. Those gold nuggets became The Teachable Heart devotions.
It all started when my wife talked me into substituting for our regular Sunday School teacher.
People have a right to know who’s teaching them. So here, at the request of a listener, is Part 1 of 3 in my journey to teaching and writing.
Personal achievements and breaking records are nice, but humbly following Christ is better.
Despite our culture’s never-ending message that we can do everything independently, the reality is we need one another.
Many people wrongly think that if they’re not actively antagonistic toward God, they will be “fine” in the end.
Would you like to have inner peace in the New Year? If so, surrender your whole being to His Spirit every day.
What does God want from you? We can start by acting justly, loving mercy, and walking humbly with Him.
It is more blessed to give than to receive. We may accept it as true, but do we really believe it?
Although translated into English in 1851, the carol dates back to the 8th or 9th Century. It speaks of Christ's first and second coming to Earth.
It written by a wine peddler, set to music by a Jew, banned by the church, kept alive by the common man, and a source of peace among warring troops.
This carol started as a poem by one of America’s favorite writers, Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, and has one of the most meaningful backstories of any carol.
The unexpected gift from beyond the grave reminded me of the blessing my extended family has been to me through the years.
The word means more than we think. If you have repented of your sins and chosen to follow Christ, you will never be alone.
Hundreds of years ago, shepherds in the hills of southern France had a Christmas Eve tradition of calling to one another from their respective hillsides. This song was how they called to one another.
His father’s influence changed his life, which changed the lives of countless others thereafter.
The song originated as a spiritual, dating back to at least 1865. Since then, it’s implored God’s children to share His good news with everyone, everywhere!
As the Lord increases your ability to give, pray that He will also increase your want to!
Jesus wanted more than the man’s forced obedience. Jesus wanted top spot in the man’s heart.
"Me time" is important; find it when and where you can. But God says Sundays are “We time.”
People, and their many needs, will always fall through the cracks unless you and I purposefully fill those cracks.
Is your agenda for life the best thing? Or does God have something of greater worth for you?
Surrender looks a lot like giving up; but not when that surrender is to the will of God!
Every person’s life is an interesting story, one which deserves to be heard. If you’re willing, share one thing you’re thankful for this Thanksgiving.
When you’ve hit a brick wall while sharing the gospel, it’s ok to move on. You’re not required to beat your head against it!
Has the growing resistance to the Christian message made you shrink away from sharing your faith?
Paul’s service to the church in Ephesus set a tremendous example for us to follow today.
While grief is expressed in words, its resolution is in God and the hope He gives for the future.
To all believers, God sent this reminder – prior to the reconciling work of Christ, wevwere all alienated from God.
Unless diverse cultures focus on Christ, there will never be the type of unity Jesus desired for His church.
Scripture actually acknowledges that there are timesand reasons for us to be disgusted.
God’s Word not only declares His love for us, it also provides us with His loving warnings. What will you do with His warnings?
God intervened in that moment apparently for no other reason than to comfort His people.
When enraged, learn to show restraint.
(BTW, Luke wrote the Book of Acts, not Paul - as I wrongly stated in the recording)!
Too often, we make our faith about becoming “one of us” instead of becoming “one of His.”
Correction should usually be done in private, and accompanied by a lot of love and reassurance.
In the war-torn area, the pastor had to choose between an AK-47 and the love of Christ.
Feeling lost and adrift? If so, allow God to redirect your heart back into His love and patience.
“Good works often leave someone indebted enough tolend you his ears.” (Charles Stanley)
Rest for our souls is possible, even in a culture that has turned its back against the Lord.
God is sovereign and can use the civic leaders of ourday, even secular ones, to achieve His purposes.
God’s ways are not only higher than ours; they are far better! (BTW, the context will amaze you)!
Many people are hesitant to share their faith because they take on their responsibility and God’s.
Suffering is God’s most effective classroom; we can learn much there, if we’ll patiently sit at His feet.
We all have areas in which we’re vulnerable to Satan’s attacks. When was the last time you honestly assessedyours?
At times, the most loving thing we can do for others is to warn them that they are living outside the will of God.
Scripturally, God’s plan for your life is NOT a career path but the posture of your heart.
We’d do well to make our plans in conjunction withGod, thereafter being willing to surrender our plans to His will.
The unrighteous may have the better things in this life, but believers will have the best things in the next life.
Sorrow is our response to deep heartache; sighing is ourreaction to deep frustrating. One day, we won’t have to deal with either!
A house is built with wood, concrete, and steel; a home is built with wisdom, understanding, and knowledge.
God knows what He has asked you to do for His Kingdom, and every task – no matter the size – is valuable to Him.
We must be intentional about creating for ourselves times and places where God’s Word CAN penetrate our busy, crowded minds.
None of us is as effective as we could be when we’re pulled in too many directions. Others need your help, and you need theirs.
Sheltered beneath the protective wings of God is the best way to weather the storms of life.
God is our virtual ventilator – we are dependent upon Him for everything, including our next breath.
As followers of Christ, we should expect the world’s worst, but respond with God’s best.
The luxurious life may give us some experiential highs, but it can bring our bank account to dangerous lows.!
What idols might Paul spot walking through your city? What if he walked through your home?
Walking God’s path is not only safest, it includes the best views and the most glorious destinations.
Difficult twists in life can leave us bewildered and disillusioned. But they don’t have to.
He was blind and hand no hands to even hold a book, but he found a way to read his Bible!
Israel shrugged their shoulders at God – not because they didn’t understand His requirements – but becausethey were indifferent to Him.
God’s grace will always be available; it’s up to us to decide how closely we walk with her.
They accomplished great things in only 52 days. But, it all began with one man who cared about the wellbeing of others.
Think twice before hitting the “Post” button. What is it you’re truly hoping to accomplish?
The three individuals in Philippi, whose lives were forever changed by God and His message of hope represent allof mankind.
Every person who has experienced any amount of “success”in this lifetime hasn’t achieved it alone.
We all deeply desire for our days to be filled with joy and gladness. The question is, “Where do we find those things?”
There are times when sin catches us off-guard and trips us up. But there are other times when we provide a way for it to happen.
“When you know your WHY, your WHAT becomes more impactful because you’re walking toward, or in, yourpurpose.” Michael Jr.
Unexpressed gratitude feels like ingratitude. It you appreciate your spouse – tell them so – often!
Paul and Barnabas had different priorities as they disagreed. Different – not necessarily wrong.
Striving for perfection isn’t as much about looking good in your own eyes as it is an attempt to look good in theeyes of others. All others. All the time. It's a losing battle.
We don’t have to figure out right and wrong for ourselves. God left us His footsteps to follow.
To live in communities which reflect the things of God (such as love and security), the people must know God.
When Jesus gave the Great Commission, He said the effort would begin in the immediate area.
Meaning and significance won't be found on other planets; they can only be found as we realize that we were created through Christ, and for Christ.
Surprise! When we’re tempted, Christ doesn’t look at us with disgust or disdain, He looks upon us with mercy.
With just a little kindness and the initiative to make a difference, a young boy’s life was changed forever.
Filter what you’re about to say through these three filters: Is it true? Is it kind? Is it necessary?”
Not only does the cross make the world less appealing to us, but we also lose some our appeal to the unsaved world.
We’re to concentrate on things above with the intention of allowing what we find there to impact our actions.
The problem with trying to be “good enough” to enter heaven is we’re not perfect judges of what is “good,” and there is no standard for how much is “enough.”
There’s a better alternative than endless striving, and it’s to rest in the knowledge that God is God.
(btw, I inadvertently said "Greek word" in one place; it should have been "Hebrew word."
Has your world shrunk as you’ve gotten older? If so, ask God to give you “largeness of heart.”
The disadvantages of his childhood did not prevent him from becoming an accomplished adult.
His silver medal brought the highest amount paid for any second-place prize in any sport.
The story of John Bowring reminds us that when the storms of life threaten to crush us, we need to keep our focus of thecross.
We’re not the main character in our own story, God is! But He still wants to work through us.
We won’t hit a spiritual “Home Run” every time we’re at the plate. But God expects us to keep swinging!
God deals with us not as we deserve, but according to the multitude of His tender mercies!
We frequently lean into Christ the furthest and grow in Him the most when life is the hardest.
Paul and Barnabas willingly put themselves in harm’s way for the benefit of others. Will we?
“The pursuit of fame requires standing out. The pursuit ofcharacter requires standing up.” --Jim Caviezel
Which are you pursuing?
Speaking well of Christ may lead others to speak poorly of you – speak well of Christ anyway!
The Bereans were eager, not so much to catch errors in Paul’s teaching, but to catch the truth.
On our wedding day, we did not promise our love and life-long commitment to our careers.
There is a reason Communism once controlled 800million live; they were committed to the cause.
Reading Scripture together is an amazing way to grow in your knowledge of God, and in our love for one another.
Through the gospel, God invites all to come to Him. Those who refuse judge themselves unworthy of eternal life.
Under rowers don’t chart the course of the ship, and they don’t navigate. In fact, they can’t even see where they’re going.
As a believer in Christ, you have rivers of living water flowing through you. As a result, you can be a restorer and nourisher of life.
Flawless intellectual insight about Scripture, devoid of living out what is taught, is practically pointless.
What was Christ’s prayer for Peter? Well, it wasn’t for Peter to have good health, a successful business, or even a happy marriage.
Are your days being lost, or are they being captured? Today's message is a reminder to make the most of each one!
Hearing from others lends another voice, another life of experience, to the conversation.
God sometimes allows difficulties in our lives so we learn to depend on Him and not ourselves.
Christ understood that those who declined His invitation were not looking for answers or truth, they were looking for excuses. What have you done with Christ's invitation?
This ancient story from the conquering of the Promised Land reminds us to always hold “our things” loosely.
When Mary anointed Jesus' feet, she demonstrated the truth in this quote from Charles Stanley, “True praise is uninhibited by the attitude of others.” Mary's worship of Christ was uninhibited - is your?
Struggling to find any real meaning in your life? We all need frequent reminders that real meaning is found in serving God, not in material things.
Contentment in life is hard to find. In fact, it’s a secret most don’t discover – but if Fanny Crosby can find it, so can YOU!
Don’t ignore what lies beneath the waterline – that’swhere most of the things which can sink your ship lurk!
The world may try to pull you up like a weed in a garden, but God will Keep you firmly grounded!
Are you tempted to pick and choose which parts of Scripture you want to follow? If so, consider this final caution from His word.
God has a way of turning our tragedy into our triumph,our mess into our message, our mourning into dancing.
Do we pray truly believing God will answer?
Acts #biblestudy #devotional #prayer #praying
The prayers for Peter continued to rise long after the sun had set. That's great. But many people's prayer life is on life support!
Acts #biblestudy #devotional #prayer #prayerlife #church
Our culture has taught us that taking the long way home is the wrong way home. But Jesus modeled there are moreimportant things than efficiency.
Being merciful and forgiving to others is good for us today, and will result in mercy from God later. #Proverbs #Matthew #biblestudy #devotional #mercy #forgiveness #depression #anxiety
The demise of Herod Agrippa reminds us that we can accept a complement from our fellowman (Proverbs 27:2), but weare not to accept their outright worship.
How can we find peace in the midst of stressful, frighteningcircumstances? Let’s explore together.
If God has allowed a difficult situation, He knows the right time to pull you out of it. His timing is always perfect.
Are you constantly searching for meaning in your life? If so, have you asked your Creator why you were created?
Obedience is the alternator of our spiritual life. BEING on the right path generates the power to REMAIN on it.
Antioch was going to get hit with the same famine, yet they generously gave to others during it. How can we get into the practice of looking to the interests of others in addition to our own?
Barnabas was said to be "full of the Spirit;" but what does that mean? You'll find out in this episode.
Why do we suffer? How can we endure life's hardest times? What purpose could God possibly have for allowing it to occur? We'll explore these topics in today's message.
God placed honoring parents at the top of all commands dealing with human relationships. Where do you place it?
What life does to us in the long run depends on whatlife finds in us. What counts, therefore, is not so much what happens to us, but what we do with it.
(Please forgive the sound quality as I'm recording in my parent's basement using a cheap headset)!
If we keep our relationship with Christ our top priority, lesser things will not separate us.
(Please forgive the sound quality; I've been recording on a cheap headset in my parents' basement)!
We all experience insults or injuries in this lifetime; but how we respond to them is our choice.
Based on the authority of God’s Word, speak with confident certainty of the hope available in Christ!
To shed tears doesn’t communicate weakness; itindicates you’re fully alive and in touch with reality.
Jesus taught that we're to get away for a little while and rest. Then we're to return to serving Him again with renewed strength!
We don’t need to hide our weaknesses, or hide FROMthem. God can rewire them for our good and His glory!
Our minds are incredibly fertile soil. Whatever we feed them will take root and grow. Paul has specific instructions which will help!
God's promise to Abraham and Sarah reminds us that God will either change our situation OR He has a very good reason for not doing so.
Nestled between the stories of Jesus feeding the 5,000 and walking on the water is another story we need to remember. For it teaches us that Christ sees every storm we face, and He’s right by our sides as we face them.
In Thessaloniki Greece stands a tower which was once stained red by the sins of many men, but then made white by the work of one.
We frequently preach the forgiveness of sins to others. But do we preach it to ourselves? Remember that in Christ, God sees you are perfectly clean – learn to see yourself the same way!
Because there will be an ongoing battle between light and dark, good and evil, the children of God care called upon to be ready.
One of the last messages in all of Scripture is this: that every Christian should be an inviting Christian; one who urges others tocome to faith in Jesus.
The difficulty of silence does not take away the goodness of it. It is in our silence that we hear His voice.
Threats to our safety will remain in this lifetime. But, the day IS coming when we will be perfectly safe!
In today's episode, we'll hear an amazing story of perseverance. Doctors doubted that Ricky Hill would ever walk normally, let alone play professional baseball.
More than likely, you need this reminder as much as I did! There is never a time we enter a gathering of believers when we aren’t also entering the presence of God.
What's your typical response to criticism? While it may not be easy, with God’s help, we can response calm, cool, and self-control.
Despite all the build-up leading up to this climactic scene in human history, the fight itself won’t live up to the hype.
Again, Tabitha will be our example for she was "full of acts of charity." Charity is a form of mercy and pity which demonstrates itself specifically in giving.
In this episode, we'll look at the example set by Tabitha. Her life was full of good deeds and charity. For many of us, thegood things we desire to do seem to get stuck in the “intention” phase, never actually moving into the “completed work” phase.
The ironclad, CSS Georgia, never fulfilled its purpose. Beingweighed down with the things of this world prevents us from pulling up anchor and setting sail wherever God might move us.
Like Paul, you are an instrument chosen by God. An instrument was not fancy or flashy. Instead, it was a very simple and practical tool.
What might our culture become if we saw each person we encounter as the Jesus we say we love? The love of Christ, and the love for Christ could change the world!
If something is of concern to you, it’s okay to discuss it with God – no matter how trivial it may seem to others!
Another mass shooting; this one in my city. What can be done? What are the answers? The only way to be truly safe in this lifetime is to be 100% prepared for the next!
Matt Maceira’s life was transformed by the gospel. He was once a very active dope dealer. But he is now known across the country as a “Hope Dealer.” What a reminder that nobody is beyond the reach of God!
In this story, the president was the one willing to help. People are looking for someone to extend kindness and gentleness to them.
Wisdom is a wonderful thing. But wisdom accompanied by the virtue of obedience is even better.
The angel's words to Cornelius teach us that God sees our prayers and service to Him as a genuine sacrifice; so stay at it!
The Lord’s answer often comes in a whisper. So create some times of silence in which you can hear Him.
The Kingdom which is coming is far better than anything this world has to offer – even if it costs us everything to get it.
I’ve come to believe that there is a distinct difference between saving faith and practical, day-to-day trust.
Without the help of Barnabas, Saul may never have reached his full potential for Christ. We all know people who could benefit from someone standing in the gap on their behalf.
How do you overcome the “stink” of the world? By leaving the pleasing aroma of Christ everywhere!
We’ve broken no laws, but we’re going to jail just the same! If you're interested in helping our ministry serve another ministry, let me know!
Christ wants to heal more than our physical ailments; He wants to bring healing to our soul. It does not matter how dirty, unclean, or unworthy others think we may be, Jesus welcomes those who come to Him in faith.
Like many of us, this desperate woman tried everything possible to improve her situation before she turned to Christ. Is Jesus your first option, or your last resort?
Many people today look at Christians and have no idea what they’re seeing. It’s up to us to accurately tell them who we are and what we believe.
The story of the demon-possessed man described in Mark 5 beautifully illustrates the contrasting differences in Satan’s intentions for mankind and God’s.
Jesus told His disciples to beware of the teaching of the Pharisees. Which teachings did He have in mind? We’ll explore in this episode.
God’s Word says there will be two different dinner parties thrown at the end of time. Each one of us will be at one of those two dinner tables. At which table will you be seated?
We can learn a great deal from the example of Philip, including obedience, enthusiasm, and the ability to lead people closer to Christ.
God desires us to make decisions which are based on truth, but which also bring peace and thevgreatest welfare to others.
For the sake of your own heart, pause frequently and ask yourself what you’re doing, and why!
Someone is molding you, leaving their fingerprints on your life. Whose fingerprints can be seen in your clay?
In the middle of the storm, he apostles shook Jesus awake and asked Him the same question many of us ask God when we face the bigger storms of life, “Don’t you care?”
Sharing the love of God with others, and the forgiveness He offers them through faith in Christ, simply takes time. There are no shortcuts.
Being creative and productive are traits of God; it’s great to be both. The challenge is to do amazing things in ways which make a name for God and not ourselves.
Unless we’re tapped into God’s strength as we serve others, we will soon find ourselves tapped out.
We grieve. But we also laugh and look forward to the day when we will meet again in joy!
He was given the chance to read his own obituary in time to change the way his story would end.
Comparisons are tough because we generally compare ourworst qualities to the best qualities of others, or vice versa.
The biggest challenge has been keeping Grandma out of her own kitchen. A servant is going to find a way to serve.
Do you want to be good and loving? If so, return to church and get irritated toward both!
Having trouble finding satisfaction in this life? Is it possible you’ve traded a relationship with your Creator for the trinkets He has created.
For many of us, pride comes much more naturally than does humility. Therefore, God reminds us to consciously aim at being humble, and to practice humility.
While we don't know the content of His prayer, we can learn a great deal from His example.
It written by a wine peddler, set to music by a Jew, banned by the church, kept alive by the common man, and a source of peace among warring troops.
Mohr decided to take a longer path home that night. The result is a Christmas Carol classic.
If I’m honest, I never fully understood the opening line. “God rest ye’ merry gentlemen” – what does THAT mean?
(Recording by Steven Noel Wariner)
The world will always attempt to push Jesus to out of the picture. It is up to us to make sure He remains front and center in our lives!
To avoid turning into Scrooge, practice contentment, self-restraint, gratitude, and generosity.
Written by a Catholic and translated by a Protestant, it is to be sung by any who are willing to come and adore Him!
Are you stuck in a pattern of personal failure? Is hope hard to find? If so, allow Christ to turn that same situation into a doorway of hope and blessing. Stop. Turn around. And head back to your Father. He’s ready to receive you and restore your hope.
If we’ll allow Him to, God will use the unexpected difficulties of marriage to mold us in the image of His Son.
Be of good cheer, even during the storm. For Christ is in your boat and above your storm!
Ever have prayers which seemed to go unanswered? Or at least the answers weren’t what you wanted? Me too! Today, we'll consider a couple of possible reasons why.
Everyone has sown the wind of sin. But they need not suffer a never-ending whirlwind of judgment.
Not only were we created for God, we were created for a place where what He approves is 100% at home.
“Don't judge each day by the harvest you reap but by the seeds that you plant.” Robert Louis Stevenson(I misquoted the verse in Romans 10. It should be 10:14, NOT 10:18).
We didn’t vow to be happy about the hard times, only to being there during and after them.
What would happen if we gathered all those Black Friday ads, and instead of circling the items we wanted, we circled the items we already had?
Who in your world is making a whole-hearted effort to imitate Christ with their life? Join them and become a fellow imitator!
Many missed who Jesus was the first time He came to earth; but He will not be missed the second time He's here! For when He returns, Christ will not come as a helpless baby, but as the conquering King!
It is so tempting in our day and age to want to win by doing battle. Ultimately, heaven belongs to the faithful, not the forceful.
We are constantly communicating something. “If you could not speak a word, what would your life say to others?” – Charles Stanley
“When the struggle wearies you to the point of giving up, give in to Christ and never to your circumstances.” - Charles Stanley
There’s a lot of noise out there; what are you doing to ensure you’re hearing from God?
When we fully consider what Christ did for us, the only reasonable and logical response is to offer ourselves to His service the rest of our days.
The giver and the recipient are both blessed. But in God’s economy, the giver is somehow blessed more.
If we don’t enter the marketplace of ideas and worldviews with a stubborn resolve to stand, we will quickly be ushered out on our ear.
At the end of the day, we all will give in to something – either our passions/flesh or God’s Spirit. Who, or what, is controllingyou?
Making a decision can be hard, especially when the options are so many and so varied. Sometimes it’s easier to obey a direct order than to make a wide-open decision.
When the odds are against you and the world seems to be shouting, “Give up! Quit! Things will never work out!” remember, God is sovereign, and He still brings beauty from ashes.
While mainstream media and big tech companies can effectively silence ministers in the public, they cannot silence you from lovingly sharing the hope of Christ with those gathered around your table
To anyone who is willing to see and hear, God waves His arms and yells, “Here I am, Here I am.”
No matter what you have done, if you have placed your faith in Christ, God is still your Father, and you are very much still Hisbeloved child!
Fear is one of mankind’s most natural reactions to uncertainty. We don't have to have all the answers at once; we need only obediently do the next right thing!
“Your attitude is like the aroma of your heart. If your attitude stinks, it means your heart’s not right.” Coach Taylor, Facing the Giants
It was the early church’s “recipe” for reaching a lost world then, andit’s a good one for today as well.
Calling “acceptable,” what God has clearly called “sin,” is perhaps the oldest lie in the book.
Healthy churches have leaders who are happy to share and members who are happy to serve.
To take God’s message of hope and love to others, we must make the time, and we must be willing to climb some stairs.
When the cultural tide threatens to sweep us away, the temptation is to throw in the towel and join the crowd.
In God’s economy, the path to ultimate victory is found in surrender. It is only through our willing surrender to our Savior that we find life.
In Luke 15, Jesus told three parables about things which were lost and the joy which resulted when they were found.
Jesus has done everything needed for us to experience fellowship with God. But He will not kick the door down; the person inside must open it.
One day we will share in all that belongs to our Heavenly Father – and that will be far more than enough!
The early church took God’s message out of the religious buildings and into the marketplace of ideas. Are you willing to do likewise?
Few people go into marriage and family life dreaming of sinks full of dishes, baskets full of clothes, and diapers full of poo. Yet,those are the DAILY things family life guarantees.
Ever get discouraged? Of course you do! How are we to deal with discouragement when it comes? A quick review of how God “came through” for you in the past is a good way to remind yourself of His good intentions toward you now. Recalling the goodness of God returns the courage which the trials of life have stolen.
Little do we realize that our enemy is constantly seeking to wreak havoc with our lives.
We all need spiritually-mature people to help us grow in our faith. Find them. Lean on them (or a season). And then become them!
The apostles did not see their fears and doubts as acceptable reasons to disobey. Do you?
The apostles gave the man a new name which reflected his character. What do those closest to you see? What nicknames would best fit?
Independent young adults must decide if they will claim their parents’ faith in Christ as their own. Thereafter, they also will decide if faith will be the focal point on the main wall of their home, or if it will gather dust in a closet.
Frequently in conflict with those closest to you? Typically think it's mostly THEIR fault? Today's episode will look into this practical issue.
Find yourself living from one experience to another looking for satisfaction? Our worst day in heaven will outshine anything this world has to offer.
Reducing our carbon footprint won’t solve mankind’s problems. The only real answer is for the created to return to their Creator.
All we gain in knowledge and understanding is not to replace our dependence on God, or our love for Him.
Do you own your material possessions; or do they own you? How do we gain and maintain a healthy perspective on worldly possessions?
Does opposition mean God has closed a door? Not necessarily. In today's episode, we'll explore how to look for opportunities which exist amid opposition.
Jesus never referred to Levi by that name, but instead called him “Matthew.” He still loves to give new names to His followers.
If you think you’ve sensed shifts in the moral foundation of our culture, you’re not wrong. Cracks in a foundation eventually produce signs above the surface.
Heartache, pain, affliction, and suffering hardly seem like the things of royalty. But they are tremendous tools in the hands of God.
Time wouldn’t allow for both; a choice would have to be made. How do you make choices with your limited time? Where does spending time with the elderly fit in?
Just as God did not design food, water, and physical comfort to completely satisfy us now, He likely hasn’t designed the lack of hunger, thirst, and physical discomfort to satisfy us for all eternity.
Despite the man’s obvious physical needs, Christ first addressed his need for spiritual healing. What should we learn from this?
The story of the healed paralytic teaches us a great deal about the potential impact we have on others, and others have on us. As a result of spending time with you, are others drawn closer to Christ? Or are you leading them away?
Ever wonder if your best days are behind you? Rest in this – if you still have days, God has an ordained purpose for you in those days!
Christ died to give us a season of refreshment, to make an end of our endless striving to please God.
What's to be our response to those less fortunate than us? Would you believe that you have never looked into the eyes of an individual whom God does not love?
Scripture says the wise accept the advice of others, whereas foolish ignore it. What about you?
You can no more contain a waterfall in a thimble than you can contain God’s love and forgiveness for you… You cannot out-sin God’sgrace.
Do we make it easy for others to get to Jesus? Or do we block their way in some fashion?
God may want to multiply His Kingdom through you; but you must first be added to His body – the church.
There is no shame in being a broken man. You just pick up the pieces and start rebuilding.
If a ministry has proven themselves trustworthy and good stewards, give freely – don’t tie their hands.
Treat prayer as a first resort, instead of the last. We are never outnumbered when God is with us.
Speaking truth from the heart not only implies that the truth is in there, but that it comes out with conviction, boldness, sensitivity, and compassion.
How do you typically present yourself to others – honestly and with humility? Or is there an element of pretense involved?
Storms in life are inevitable. But when they come, we have a choice in where we fix our eyes.
Which would you rather have – knowledge of coming events, or God’s power to fulfill your purpose within those events?
During any conflict, someone needs to recognize the potential danger and begin working toward a truce.
We can experience great peace in most things if we can honestly say, “I did everything I was able to do.”
How do you give to God? Cheerfully? Reluctantly? Or not at all? Remember, anything you could give is already His.
Sometimes our words land on “dry leaves” – a heart that’s already hurting, a spirit that’s already breaking.
Sin which is allowed to linger will generally grow to impact other areas of your life, and other people in your world.
Fear is a trap. Are you fearful today? Have you lost the will to go on? Are you running or hiding? If so, my I ask, upon whom are you relying?
“There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens: … a time to love, and a time to hate…” True love is not indifferent to what God calls evil.
Ever been called judgmental? Me too! But individuals with whom we share the gospel judge themselves, and decide their own outcome.
Did you know there's a difference between being angered and being provoked? The angry just curse at the source of their anger. The provoked try to improve the underlying cause.
We can share our advice, but thereafter we must give others the freedom and respect to make their own decision.
Ever wonder why so much emphasis is placed on Scripture? One reason is that our memories are faulty.
Even the title sounds backwards, doesn't it?! Has God given you a particular burden or desire to serve Him in some way? Don’t wait until every detail becomes clear to you. Get started.
What’s your typical response to those who are hurting? Do you move toward, or shrink away?
When we’ve tripped and fallen, may we remember that there’s life beyond that fall. And that life can yet be good. It can yet be meaningful – to us, and to God.
Do you find yourself dwelling on the hurtful actions of others? If so, is it possible you’ve yet to fully forgive them?
Throughout history, people have chosen to wear any number of different masks. But that wasn’t God’s original intent for mankind.
Who doesn’t want to be effective and productive for God? But how do we know if we are? This answer from God's Word may surprise you.
Want to influence others with what you say or write? Remember, we’re never persuasive when we’re abrasive.
If Jesus were visiting you, would He find you hot, cold, or lukewarm? Believe it or not, the metaphor has nothing to do with spiritual fervor!
God already knows the answer to your trying situation. He’s resting in His knowledge, and we can rest in it too. (BTW, I inadvertently called Philip, "Peter" in one instance).
One threat to spiritual joy, is spiritual complacency. God wants us to soar for Him. Is it possible you’ve grown too comfortable in the nest?
Did God need help removing the stone? No. Yet He expected the people to join Him in His work.
If our empathy toward another leaves them comfortable in their sin, we’ve placed them above God.
If God’s truth, love, and hope are to prevail, it will be God, and not us, who brings about the change of heart and mind.
Whatever you’ve done in the past, God wants you to know that you can be given a new name.
The work God wants from us is to believe in His faithfulness – for our eternity, and for every day in between.
He may not always grant our prayers, but He is always able to do more than we ask or imagine.
Is it possible that God is building quite a different house from the one you thought of?
If worship of God is not central, we’ll soon be disappointed in any church – regardless of how good it is.
What a beautiful transaction – God’s Word becoming known through the investment of a bit of our time.
The moral fabric of society has seemed to erode quickly; but it's not the fastest a nation has rejected the Lord.
The “blameless way” always seems to be “just a little further. It’s like the horizon; we can see it, but never quite reach it.
Cut God out of the creating process, and you can cut Him out of the ownership process as well.
The Christian who always wants to "play it safe" frequently finishes life doing little and getting nowhere.
Inviting God into our mess is not a sign of weakness, it’s an indication of faithful dependence.
Their looking to the pole demonstrated their belief in the promise associated with the pole.
“Just as Moses lifted up the snake in the wilderness, so the Son of Man must be lifted up, that everyone who believes may have eternal life in him” (John 3:14-15).
If our time in Scripture doesn’t bring about some sort of change, have we had the encounter with it God intended?
It’s a question for which each of us should have an answer for most of our activities and endeavors.
It’s a question for which each of us should have an answer for most of our activities and endeavors.
Charting our own course may sound good, but in the end, it could lead us astray, and break the heart of God in the process.
The best security to be found in THIS world is to be certain and secure about the NEXT.
Walk uprightly with God and know that He’s bringing good things into your life – even if you don’t recognize them as good right away.
Each time we have the opportunity to demonstrate loving kindness, and don’t, a little bit of our heart dies.
Trials and struggles aren’t an indication that it’s time to cut the cords and run. They’re proof that God’s Word is true.
Life will bring trials. What will those trials find in us? Will we implode? Or will we plod on?
Discipline’s bold promise is this – if we allow it to train us, our peace will be restored.
When we’re preoccupied with the lives of others in this way, our eyes are off of Christ.
Is a person’s refusal to believe a matter of God failing to demonstrate Himself; or is it something else?
If God doesn’t have the Number One spot in our lives, an idol does. And when an idol occupies His place, watch out!
What would our lives look like if we consulted a “faith advisor” as much as a financial advisor?
God frequently takes us through the valley of difficulty in order to transform us and to solidify our faith.
How we look depends upon what we compare ourselves to. Compared to other crooked people, we probably measure up pretty well. But our flawed neighbor is not the standard to which we’re going to be compared.
Surprisingly, the once proud Manasseh humbled himself and repented. Thereafter, the severity of Manasseh’s sins was matched by an equally severe mercy from God.
Manasseh serves as an example of what can happen if we walk away from the truth too long.
For which type of greatness are you striving? Worldly success or eternal significance? Jesus says great men and women point others to Him.
What are the big rocks in your life? Are you intentionally making time for them? What’s crowding them out?
“I am the Lord your God…you shall have no other gods before me.” (Exodus 20:2-3)
We can believe that good will emerge from the difficult, and we can thank God for the good that’s coming.
A certain part of the day should not belong to the day, but to gathering resources for the day.
Is the life God has given you too small a thing? Are you content with your lot in life?
Our relationship with God is not only to be central, it needs to be protected.
Check out the poll if you're listening on Spotify!
We demonstrate love for other by being a student of them. Listen to learn more about how to be a good student of another person!
Recreation is a compound word, with components which mean to “re-create.” Recreation is to result in a new creation. What’s your recreation re-creating in you?
It’s not to be all marriage and no service to God. Nor is it to be all service to God while ignoring the marriage.
God turned a wounded, weary, and weak Wesley into a winning Wesley. He can do the same for you too!
On that first day, John Wesley preached to more than 3,000 people, and he never looked back.
There's more to his life than having founded the Methodist Church; and much of it was less-than-ideal. Yet God used this imperfect, faithful man in tremendous ways!
Isn’t it amazing that the first idol maker would become God’s first priest? Men likely would have cast Aaron out; but God wanted to bring Aaron into His service.
During the heat of the battle, David asked God to calm the enemy, then David asks God to calm HIM.
James described the tongue as a “restless evil.” It’s always “cocked” and ready to fire. It’s up to us to discern if we pull the trigger.
What one agenda item could you put off for 24 hours in order to communicate your love, care, and concern for one person in your world?
Would you believe that the result of God's guidance and protection is our comfort? The Lord continues to offer His comfort in the dark times if we will humbly respond to His prodding and correction.
Keep gently and respectfully sharing God’s message of love, hope, and forgiveness with everyone – through you, God may draw someone to Himself!
If your home is like mine – it looks better from the outside. Walls and doors keep prying eyes out. But God sees what the neighbors don’t.
Life hurts. But the more deeply we are willing to face our disappointments, the readier we will be to turn to Christ and draw from Him the strength we need to cope.
While it may go unnoticed, genuine selflessness is always meaningful to those closest to us.
Perhaps the ones in the best position to judge if revival has taken place at Asbury are the homeless and unsaved in and around Wilmore, Kentucky. Just my simple thoughts on a complicated topic!
We become what we study. Eyes fixed on a subject aren’t easily moved. Fixed eyes study. Fixed eyes probe. Fixed eyes learn a great deal about their subject.
What’s your reaction to those in distress? Do you move toward them to help? Or away from them in fear?
Webster defines self-control as, “restraint exercised over one's own impulses, emotions, or desires.” It’s simple to define, but much more difficult to achieve.
Behind every stiff neck is a proud, selfish heart. It’s our pride which insists on going our own way. God not only hates pride, He humbles those who possess it (Psalm 75:1). While He may allow us to go our own way, it usually doesn’t end well.
How are you using the talents God has given you? For your glory and purposes, or for His?
We're all susceptible to the praise of others. But are we allowing their words to get us off track from seeking God's approval?
Moses called the Israelites together so they could meet God. The Lord still wants His people to invite others to meet Him. Let’s do all we can to set up that first date. What happens thereafter, is up to them and God.
When those hard, dark moments come (and they will), we need to actively look for the evidence of God’s presence.
God is with us as much during the dark and discouraging moments as He is during the occasions we celebrate.
Thankfully, the human authority which God has established for our protection doesn’t frequently ask us to violate God’s law. But if/when they do, who will you fear more – God or man? Listen to the story of two women who chose to fear God more!
God’s conversation with Moses at the burning bush reminds us that the Lord has patience with our lack of confidence, but not with our lack of obedience.
What role did faith play in Rebekah’s decision to leave her home? What role does your faith play in the decisions you make?
If you’ve been discouraged by the lack of apparent “results,” remember – God calls us to be faithful, not successful!
We all must deal with fear, insecurity, and jealousy. And the people we hang around will likely influence the way we do so.
Influencers can alter our character, our thoughts, and our behavior. Because that’s true, it’s important to be careful about who we allow into that role.
His answer surprised me because he placed me ahead of himself. Are you willing to consistently put the interests of others ahead of your own?
One hard, dark season does not a lifetime make. We never know what good things God has for us ahead.
From this side of eternity, all you may currently see is a jumble of apparently random and tangled strings.
If He sees every common sparrow, then we can be assured He sees us and is keeping very close eye on our needs too. (Make sure to check out the accompanying video on The Teachable Heart Wordpress blog).
Only when we see our lives through God’s lens does it begin to come into focus and make sense.
How do we avoid attacking those we love during arguments? Well, when frustrations in life come up (and they will), attack the problem and not one another.
How much better to hear what ARE you thinking, than what WERE you thinking? To whom have you given permission to question what you’re considering?
Our potential to impact strangers with our kindness and generosity is greater than we might expect.
When a culture tolerates sin too long, it becomes harder for them to spot sin or to accept that God may judge it.
The mere fact that we’ve made it through all God’s allowed in our lives is a testament to His faithful provision.
What’s your response to the sins of others? Do you cluck about them to others? Or do you attempt to cover them with a cloak?
We can expect every prayer we take to Him (be it a brand new request, or the same request for the 1000th time) to receive His attention and His reply.
God has given us the wisdom and ability to determine when to push forward in the power He provides, and when to gently pull back.
If it had been you lying unconscious on a football field Monday night, do you know beyond any doubt that you’d wake up in the presence of Jesus?
Why do we support those involved in the ministry of the gospel? Because God sees their work, and those who support it, as beautiful!
Want to be happy and blessed by God in the coming year? If so, make sure your sinking your roots deeply into the ways of God and not the ways of the world.
Ever feel like your life doesn't matter? Feel like giving up? If so, this episode is for you - to remind you that your work in the Lord is NEVER in vain!
People drowning in the open water frequently don’t know what they need. Likewise, those drowning in their sin don’t either.
Whether our arms are empty or full of the Lord’s blessings, let’s lift them to Him in praise!
The song written by a wine peddler, set to music by a Jew, banned by the church, kept alive by the common man, and a source of peace among warring troops.
From the hand of an orphan came a call for all creation to come and worship Christ, the new-born King.
This carol started as a poem by one of America’s favorite writers, Henry Wadsworth Longfellow.
Parents put a lot of time and thought into the names of their children because names have meaning – they always have.
Self-reliance demands we lead with the best soldiers and equipment. Faith allows us to lead with the choir.
There’s a final part of the story that needs to be told. There’s another day to which we are counting down.
The hardest service comes at the hardest times. Yet, with the hope of heaven before Him, Jesus took the towel and began washing feet. We can do likewise!
Unlike many of our carols, Do You Hear What I Hear is relatively new. It was written in 1962, at the height of the Cubin Missile Crisis…
God does not want His children to wonder if they have a home or not. Do you know you have eternal life? Or do you only hope you do?
The song originated as a spiritual, dating back to at least 1865. Since then, it’s implored God’s children to share His good news with everyone, everywhere!
Repentance and humility have always been interconnected, with pride constantly works against repentance.
You are greatly loved by God just because you are His, not because of what you do for Him!
How can we remain holy in this day and age? Getting totally away from the chaotic, sinful world is tempting. But is being isolated on a pole what God had in mind?
While our contentment may make Christmas gift giving more frustrating for others, it’s a good thing to shoot for nonetheless!
Ease and comfort form a very ineffective classroom. However, pain and struggle are wonderful teachers.
To be silent might be considered tolerant or respectful in a broken world, but it is not loving.
The world’s approach to sexuality is to ignore the truth and try to escape the consequences.
Having the church and the state being intimately intertwined is not the idyllic dream many of us think it might be. Remember, faith cannot be forced!
If we will drop the rope and walk away, the bell of past sins will stop ringing and the sound of them will eventually fade.
Just how far has God removed our sins? North and south are good. East and west are better.
This world is a rough place in many regards. As we go through it, let’s look past the failures of our brothers and sisters and show mercy and understanding as we see the struggles behind their failures.
We want to make decisions which protect our purity and blamelessness, and which produce much fruit for God.
God’s will isn’t so much for our entire life, as it is for each and every small decision that adds up to a life.
The story of Iris Blue reminds us that nobody, NO ONE, is beyond the reach of God’s saving arm.
The early church exercised godly wisdom in closing the door on biblical canon. Had they not, we would forever be subject to those claiming to be prophets speaking for God.
What are we to do when we encounter a portion of Scripture we don’t understand or “like?”
Insignificant things which reveal personal differences, pride, and stubbornness are grounds for divorce in a culture which plays at marriage, but doesn’t honor it.
“Worship is not about the noise you make; it’s about the heart that makes the noise.” (Mark Hall, lead singer of Casting Crowns)
Redirected steps sometimes come in the form of a wrong turn, a missed exit, a cancelled flight, a flat tire, or an unexpected phone call.
Jeremiah’s words reflect what should be the purpose for our pleading with those outside the faith.
Are you living in a way now that will generate a godly legacy for the generations that follow?
We may retire from a paid job, but we never retire from being God’s representative in this world.
Sometimes, the Lord did all the fighting on Israel’s behalf; but most of the time, Israel was required to play an active, cooperative role.
Outsiders may not agree with what we espouse, but they CAN SEE if we’re qualified to represent the Lord.
Must we walk exactly the same path as someone else in order to be a comfort to them? God's Word assures us we don't. The only requirement for being a comfort to others is to have previously received comfort from God.
Jesus didn’t die so you and I could be nice. He didn’t die so we could become slightly better versions of our old selves. No, He died so we could be completely NEW creations.
Waiting on God to open a door of opportunity for you? If so, continue to look for opportunities He has for you on this side of that door while you wait!
“What’s the least I can do for Him?” or “How can I please Him in everything I do?” Which question are you currently asking?
Finding our purpose in life begins with God, asking Him questions such as, “God, why did You create me? What mix of abilities and passions have You placed within me?
God is not fearful of men studying what He created, therefore we don’t need to be either.
Is it possible that some of what we see our culture embracing today is because we didn’t take a stand yesterday?
Healthy churches look to develop leaders by equipping them, and giving them opportunities to gain experience.
To those who don’t understand the mission we’re on, we will appear “mad” at times. But, the world thought Christ was crazy too!
Fretful over the course of our culture? Remember, God still acts on behalf of the ones who obedient follow Him!
Whether it’s through the daily grind, or through worldly success, the enemy of your soul wants to take you out.
Desperation may open a window into hearts which have always been closed to the gospel previously.
For anyone who has licked their wounds at the end of a long day of being faithful, hear these words from the Lord…
Our culture may attempt to reduce the value placed upon the elderly, but our God refuses to do so!
There was going to be a resurrection that day, and Christ had invited others to participate in it!
God's given us sound minds, and He expects us to use them. But what do we do when that moment of absolute certainty doesn’t arrive?
Sometimes it’s tempting to give the people what they desire, our silence. While they may WANT our silence, they NEED God’s truth.
If we allow ourselves to get too removed from the Shepherd, we may find ourselves following an imposter.
Feel like hitting something (or someone) following mistreatment? How about hitting your knees?
It’s great to try to reach the world with the gospel. But my friends, let’s not forget that our Jerusalem begins next door.
Far too many marriages suffer because I or both partners view conflict as an argument to win, instead of an opportunity to love.
In a survey of 11,000 single adults, 51% reported having sex within… Now that I've got your attention, let's hear from God's Word.
Can we “Lone Ranger” our way through the Christian life? Technically, I suppose we can, but not very well.
When it comes to sharing your resources, do you see it as an opportunity to be generous, or as a grudging obligation?
How are we to treat our enemies? Do you lean more toward giving them justice or mercy? Remember, God tells us to love our enemies.
Ever wonder what heaven will be like? Randy Alcorn compares the New Earth to an upgrade from economy class to First Class. The liabilities of economy class are removed in first class, but the assets aren’t.
What's your part in God's plan? He knows the players on His team perfectly, and has given each of us the role which fits us best.
“God’s will for my life is ___________?” Believe it or not, He’s not hiding it under a shell.
We often think that a good God would only allow good things into our lives. But what about the bad times?
God’s grace continues throughout our relationship with Him. Therefore, He does not want us to say, “Thanks for saving me Lord, I’ll take it from here!”
How we long for God to comfort Job; to even apologize for all the suffering Job had endured. God would address Job’s pain later. But first, God needed to address Job’s pride.
What’s the best solution to unbelievers’ hostility towards us? We'll explore that in this episode.
Not satisfied with your church life? Is it possible you’ve not been investing the necessary time?
Some situations require us to say “no” to things which may benefit us, so that the faith of someone else can grow.
Naaman may have been a hothead initially, but I’ve got to hand it to him, despite his anger, he listened to reason.
Do you have expectations of how God should act in certain circumstances? What do you do when God doesn’t meet your expectations?
How are we to treat those who mistreat us? Today, we'll consider Naaman's servant girl. She is a tremendous example of wishing God’s best on our worst enemies.
Life is a mixed bag where we advance in some areas, while experiencing setbacks in others.
Our job is to share the gospel. The Spirit’s job is to convince people the gospel is true, and that they need it.
Is love a feeling or an action? Are you waiting for a warm fuzzy toward others before you act?
Is Christianity "too old" to be relevant today? Let me assure you that in 64AD, Christianity wasn’t “old-fashioned.”
From the hairs on your head, to the tears on your cheeks, every detail of your life matters to God.
When push comes to shove, in their unbelieving state, the world will choose sin, pride, and independence above us or Christ.
Ever struggle accepting the "unacceptable"? In many stories, Happily Ever After is not the outcome God has written.
Only God’s Word and the souls of men will last into eternity. Therefore, it only makes sense to invest in those things.
Obeying God, giving up sinful ways, and using our time to serve Him are not ways to kill joy, but to mill joy.
Ever heard "no" to some prayer requests? We must have the correct context in mind to contemplate Christ’s “blank check.”
Like any gardener, God wants to see fruit, and He keeps a watchful eye over His garden.
The only real peace available in a world like ours comes from knowing we are complete in Christ.
The circumstances were identical for each. Yet their responses could not have been more different.
If you’ve ever bought a “fixer-upper” home, you understand there is a difference between being an owner and being at home.
Sometimes, we're to be the workers harvesting in the fields. “Lift up your eyes and look” continues to be Christ’s instruction to us today.
Do you struggle in your prayer life? Maybe giving up something in order to humbly seek Him would help.
It's easier to steer a moving ship than one that's sitting in the docks. While ships are safe in the docks, that’s not what ships are made for.
Following God is not the “preset norm” for anyone. Before long, a heart not actively pursuing God will be completely swept along with the tide of culture.
Many of us want a relationship with Christ which makes us feel warm, safe, fuzzy, and secure, without requiring much real change on our part.
When an individual refuses to live by the moral code of the land, the next step is an attempt to remove that moral code.
While there’s a duty involved with serving others, that’s not the only reason we’re to do so.
The command is for Christians to especially love other Christians in a Christ-like manner.
It’s difficult to let go of a good past, even if God has provided for an promising future.
In the entire New Testament, only two people were specifically described as being “devout.”
God only calls us to be faithful witnesses; the results are between Him and those we share Him with.
What can we learn from the fact that Elisha was plowing a field with called by God into the ministry? For one thing, work is presented as a good, honorable, and necessary part of life.
A man or woman after God’s heart should face their responsibilities head-on, not passively push them on to the back burner.
What can we learn from the California man who got hit by the same train twice in two weeks? Let’s find out together!
Judas called himself a disciple, but in his heart he was far from Christ. But nobody suspected a thing...
For most of us, God’s plan is to live a life of faithful service without much (if any) notoriety.
Married? Thinking about it? Here are a few suggestions I’ve learned with (maybe from?) my wife over our 34 years together.
All of us get lazy in our relationships at times. But there’s no room for lazy in earnest love.
It is loving to presume the best of one another, and then ask questions to clarify any areas of doubt.
Our Father is willing to look past the behavior to the soul which needs to be found. Shouldn’t we be willing to do the same?
It is a child’s honor to be descended from parents have has shown themselves to be wise, gentle, humble, and kind.
Keeping God as Lord of our lives requires us to intentionally “pin” Him to the top of our "wall" each day.
What did Jesus mean when He told Peter, “Unless I wash you, you have no part with me?" Let's find out together.
Do you only hang out with your "tribe" - those who think exactly as you do? If anyone had a right to form an exclusive tribe it was Christ - but He didn't!
An invitation to follow Christ is NOT an invitation to “Happily Ever After” – that’s a fairy tale which set us up for disillusionment.
Every time we say “yes” to our phones (which apparently is much of the time), we are saying “no” to everything, and everybody, else!
Corrupt, godless governments are nothing new. If God remained sovereign during Ahab and Jezebel’s term, He can handle any world leaders!
In stark contrast to self-absorption which leads to nowhere, Scripture points us to a much better alternative – one of self-denial and an increasing concern for others.
Made a major mistake in life? When we’ve tripped and fallen, may we remember that there’s life beyond the failure.
Ever wonder why evil rules the day? If so, take a listen. We cannot simply apply non-spiritual solutions to spiritual problems.
The older brother was obedient, he was faithful, he served his father. He was all about doing his daddy’s business. But he somehow missed his daddy’s heart in the process.
At first glance, the fact that the Prodigal's older brother was out in the field as the party began seems trivial, but it’s not. Listen and learn why.
When the Prodigal returned, there was going to be a family gathering of some sort. Depending on the father’s response, that gathering was either going to be a funeral or a feast.
The father did what the Pharisees would have thought shameful, he hiked up the hem of his robe, and took off in a mad dash for his son.
The wise find God’s path and remain on it. While the climb may be difficult, it generally leads to a beautiful place!
The name of the holiday practically begs us to remember… Happy Memorial Day from The Teachable Heart
Everything we have actually belongs to Him (1 Corinthians 10:26) – He’s just loaned it to us for our temporary use.
Do your friends matter? You bet they do! Consider your current “company.” Who among them consistently points you toward God? Any who leads you away?
Our sins have consequences on others. But is against God whom we sin first and foremost!
What can we learn from the Prodigal son? Well one thing, frequently it’s our failure to remember the Father’s goodness which keeps us from returning to Him.
Can God use the personal testimony of one whose life has been shattered by sin? Absolutely!
None of us – regardless of how big, strong, talented, independent, courageous, gifted, etc. – none of us outgrow our need for others.
Churches simply being “open for business” is no longer enough. You and I need to invite people to come!
If King David were living today, he’d likely attribute current events as the judgment of God.
What confidence it brings knowing that wherever life takes you, you’ll always have someone by your side.
Love. Do good. Pray. Give. Lend without expectation. Be merciful. The Christian life is just this simple, and just this difficult!
What do you do with your possessions? Store them up for yourself, or share them with others?
There are many lessons we can learn from the Garden of Gethsemane. Maybe you've not considered what it teaches us about friendship.
It doesn’t matter who you are or what you did. Without your name in the book, you cannot attend the banquet.
When it comes to your finances, which has the greater influence – your faith, or your fear? If it’s fear, step outside and watch the birds eat!
Thankfully, there’s a better alternative for our riches. And that alternative is to be “rich toward God.”
Are you inviting God into the decisions you make about finances? Remember, what the world may applaud, God may call foolish.
Are you making provision to walk into sin? If so, do yourself a favor and let a trusted friend in on it, one who will help you put Christ back on.
When you hear it used, you have an opportunity to tell the backstory of the ultimate Kinsman Redeemer, Jesus, who would not rest until He had done what was necessary to redeem those in need.
The cross will forever change our relationship with the world (all things devoid of God); but may we never cease to love those outside the faith.
It is in thinking we have an unlimited number of future days that we tend to squander THIS day.
Real life began for him the moment he took his last breath. Death is inevitable; are you ready?
There are far too many people near us who are suffering. Far too many who believe God has forsaken them. May we be willing to come to the aid of those who are suffering in any way.
Jesus has obviously already come and gone – the first time! But He is coming again. Therefore, we also have the opportunity to play the role of the Baptist.
What, other than money, are some good things that would be life-sustaining to a teacher of God’s Word? (Hint: start with encouragement)!
Sometimes God’s answer to our prayer isn’t to remove our obstacles, but to come near to us, and to give us the strength we need to go through what He knows is necessary.
How does a personal failure become a doorway to hope? By stopping in the midst of it, turning around, and walking back to God.
It doesn’t say we’ll get anything and everything we desire, only that we’ll have everything that is actually to our benefit or welfare.
The presence of our difficulties doesn’t mean the absence of our God. When things go from bad to worse, God is still working behind the scenes.
There will be situations in all of our lives in which the problem and the answer are separated by time. And during that time, God may appear to be silent and inactive.
Jesus set an example by washing His disciples' feet - but is that really what He wants from us?
How's your speech? Remember, what’s lurking in the depths of your heart today will make an appearance on the surface tomorrow.
Who is really calling the shots in your life – is it God or you? Are you in step with Him – or are you running ahead or lagging behind?
Ever cry out to God and then have to wait? “How long” is a guttural cry of anguish – an appeal to heaven to DO SOMETHING!
The veil was so thick and heavy, horses couldn’t tear it apart and it took 300 men to carry it.
Peace is good – and we should certainly strive to achieve and maintain it. But may that peace not come at the expense of standing for what is right.
Scripture makes this distinction for two reasons. First, those who are not mature in their faith may fail to be gentle in their restorative efforts. And second, the immature may fall right into the pit from which they’re trying to pull their brother.
“Restore” carries the idea of things “fitting together exactly.” It described the setting of a bone or the mending of fishing nets.
At the heart of both tests was whether or not the people involved (first the Israelites, and then Christ) would be humble and obedient before the Father.
During your church’s time of worship through song, are you celebrating God, or criticizing the band? Remember, the point of our worship is to make much of Him, not to be entertained.
Based on Luke 1:51. To “size ourselves up” without factoring in who, and what, we are in relationship to God is to arrive at a made-up, puffed-up assessment.
What role does fear play in your life? And how can trusting in our saving Lord help prevent it? Take a listen and find out!
The difference matters - a LOT! The key to understanding Paul’s warning is a proper interpretation of what is meant by those who “do” such things.
If others are to become one with us in Christian conviction, we must first become one with them in Christian compassion.
When God instructs, let’s not allow bad circumstances, lack of faith, or pride cause us to do, when God says just believe!
Our freedom in Christ is “base camp” from which all of our subsequent activities start. How are you using your freedom?
What's your true identify? Is it found in what you do? Who (or what) are we when we retire, or lose our job? What happens to our identity if an accident leaves us unable to work? If dementia leaves us unable to think or remember well – who are we then?
It’s good to be made much of – but for what purpose? Do those pursuing us want to make us more like them, or more like Christ?
Are you facing hard times today? If so, hear the Lord’s message, “Do not be afraid, only believe. All will be well one day.”
Our best efforts (even over a short amount of time) cannot fulfill the holy requirements of God. That is why we ALL need a Savior!
As followers of Christ shouldn’t we be asking how far we can go to please our Lord in all things, instead of how far we can sink into the world’s culture before it’s too late?
Do you tend to get ahead of God? Make your plans and then ask Him to bless them? Do you tend to get behind God? Being slow to obey what He's asked of you? If so, take a listen; this message may be for you!
While the majority focused on the problems in Canaan, two focused on the Promiser of Canaan.
God is ALWAYS up to something. His invitations to join Him continue to go out. We can’t possible do it all, but we ought-ta want-ta do something!
How can we rejoice amidst the current state of affairs? Today's message will provide some practical help.
Strength and peace don’t come from military might alone, they are gifts from God when we trust He’s in control.
Humility recognizes that others have something to offer – even if they are younger and less experienced. Whereas, pride closes the mind and fools us into believing we’ve learned everything we need to know. Do you have the humility to learn from others?
If you’ve placed your faith in Christ, you have both His forgiveness and freedom from your guilt. Live in that freedom. Don’t allow the burden of past sins to weigh you down.
David shows us another side of prayer which most of us likely never consider. So let's consider it today!
Our ability to pick and choose among our entertainment choices (e.g., Pandora/Netflix) can bleed over into our approach to the Christian life.
Until He returns, Jesus will always have A church – but unless you’re willing to flex a bit to reach future generations – it may not be YOUR church!
Indifference matters. There is a time and place for rest and recreation. But consistently choosing our comfort over our responsibility has consequences.
Faith isn’t just what we believe – it’s what we live. Remember, people cannot see what is in your heart or your head, they only will see what you do.
Those who are willing to thanklessly do the right things for the right reasons still exist!
Oh how this world needs you and me to see people the way Jesus saw them. Lord, give us eyes for the one who needs to be noticed.
There are no unimportant parts to play in His kingdom; that small group around you matters to God!
Today let's take a lesson from my salt and pepper shakers, Mr. & Mrs. Pillsbury Doughboy. The pull of our culture, and the busy-ness of life will constantly move us away from God and into areas we don’t want to be.
Placing our faith in Christ means accepting both His forgiveness AND our cross – we can’t have one without the other
What’s your attitude toward helping others? Are you hesitant? Or do you eagerly seek opportunities to help?
Who is helping you live out what you proclaim to believe? Who are you helping to do likewise?
Would you believe nobody's perfect - including you! But who has your permission to point out when you’re wrong?
By God’s design, we ALL need help from others sometimes. Who can you turn to in your hour of need?
How do you view interruptions to your plans? Our perspective determines how we handle them.
There is something better than taking revenge against our enemies; it’s doing good to them in love.
Should "Let's Go Brandon" be uttered by Christians? Think about what might happen in our nation if millions of Christians actively prayed for those in leadership instead of cursed against them.
Who is controlling your life? Is it you, or God? Who do you think would do a better job?
It was his Christian faith that propelled Branch Rickey to remove the racial barriers in the sport he loved.
Just as it would be cruel for a meteorologist not to warn us of a coming storm, it’s worse if we won’t warn our friends and family about what awaits them.
Feel stuck between a rock and a hard place? The way forward is to faithfully do the next right thing.
Are you encouraging each other toward wisdom and godliness? Or toward fame and foolishness?
Who would make your list of great men or women, and why? Who (and what) you consider great reveal what you value.
What if we treated all of our "invisible" sins as if they were seen by everyone, including God?
Forgive my voice - turns out I had Covid when I recorded this one!! We are well-loved by our heavenly Father – let us in turn allow Him to love others well through us.
Ever find yourself in some dark spots wondering if God is anywhere near? If so, may this message encourage your heart.
They “had it all,” so why did they need a Savior? (BTW: this is NOT to say there are no genuine believers living near the beach – of course there are)!
We cannot demand or expect love from others unless we lead them to the capacity to do so.
The man (Billy Graham) is gone, but his message, and the need for that message live on.
When a loved one (spouse or otherwise) tells us what they need, it’s not our job to critique their request.
We need money to survive in this world. But do we give equal or greater effort to pursuing wisdom and understanding as we do the almighty dollar?
Today's message comes from the arena of college basketball! Anger is frequently unavoidable – but we can choose how we respond.
Today's lesson comes from history (D-Day, June 6, 1944). The call for a medic continues today – will you answer it?
“Give thanks” or “thanksgiving” appear nearly 100 times in Scripture. From this we can conclude that God appreciates hearing a sincere “Thank you” from His children. Do you give it?
To be correct in the eyes of God, we will frequently need to be corrected by others along the way!
Be angry. But don’t stay that way. Today's message addresses how to respond when we're angry.
What might this year look like if you asked God to re-light the fire you once had for Him?
The story of the men who threw Jonah into the sea reminds us we need to be careful about our presumptions.
He gave up his chance for freedom in order to benefit someone else. To be truly sacrificial, the event must be costly to us.
What can an Olympic sprinter from 100 years ago teach us about honoring God today? Listen and learn...
Jonah was willing to let all the people in Nineveh perish - but how did God see that city? It's HIS perspective that matters most.
At a minimum, the endless “happily-ever-after” romance message from pop culture creeps into the expectations we have for our relationships.
If we love God, then we WILL love others. Our love for others may be imperfect, but it will consistently be present.
Paul used his back-story to demonstrate how radically Christ can change a life. How might God use your story to do the same?
It was once banned by church leadership because the lyricist was a wine-maker and the composer an unbelieving Jew.
It began on a quiet hillside outside a tiny village in Austria. The work of two humble men who overcame the obstacles of limited time and broken instruments to remind us of the dawn of God’s redeeming grace – Jesus Lord at thy birth.
God sent Jesus to save mankind because He was the only One who could - and because He wanted to!
It will likely surprise you to learn that this classic Christmas carol was actually written about Christ's triumphant return, not His lowly birth.
Unless people have dealt with what happened on the cross, they have nothing to celebrate about the cradle.
From the hand of an orphan came a call for all creation – every person, and every created thing to come and worship Christ, the new-born King. (From the "Carol History" files)!
God saved us for a purpose – and part of that purpose is for Christ to be seen through us. Is He?
The promise that one day all will be made right, and God will bring peace to our pain is another hope we have for Christmas.
Life is an ongoing series of crossroads and decisions. The paths we choose determine our destination.
The joy, hope, and peace we have in Christ should be obvious, and it should induce a longing for God in others.
What do you do with the praise you receive? Believe it or not, God uses such praise as a test.
Do you practice restraint with others? Or do you put yourself in “the meddle” of their business?
In these 3 minutes, you'll learn the importance of getting, and remaining, in sync with God and one another.
The thief on the cross was told he'd be with Jesus in paradise yet that day. But on what basis?
Works are not done to EARN salvation (think thief on the cross), works are done to DEMONSTRATE salvation.
Upon whom/what do you depend? Would you believe God listed self-reliance along with idolatry, murder, and adultery? Kinda telling...
Would concern for others have entered your mind during a worldwide famine? What can we learn from the early church’s example?
Neglect of simple problems can create much bigger ones which can't be fixed easily - if at all!
When doubts surface, what do you do? Remember, faith is not the ABSENCE of doubt, faith is the ANSWER to doubt.
What demonstrates genuine holiness today? Is it primarily what we don't do? Or is it more about what we do? Let's see what God's Word says.
Do you know where the phrase came from? And would you believe it may be an opportunity to point others to Christ?
Life is a mist which is here today and tomorrow is gone. How can we make the most of it?
What's your approach to evil in the world? Do you completely shun it, or do you allow yourself to flirt with it?
As you gather with friends and family this holiday, are you prepared to do more than just eat? Prepare now to let your thankfulness overflow!
We’ve all blown it at times, and felt shame over our terrible choices. If we could, we’d crawl under a rock or turn back time for a “do over.” We can't turn back time, so God gives us another option!
What are your views of races different than your own? Would you believe we're more alike than we are different?
Gaps, especially those between men and God, are dangerous. God is looking for those who will stand in the gap for Him.
Did you realize that God chose to remind us of His never-ending presence, and never-ending acceptance in the context of our finances.
Today we learn from the events surrounding the sinking of Titanic. Our world is sinking. How will we respond?
The results of our efforts may take years for us to see - if we see them at all! Just be faithful. BTW, the reference in Isaiah is 43:12.
Even in these difficult times, God remains enthroned above the circle of His creation (Isaiah 40:22)
Here's a "bonus" podcast, especially for the young men in the listening audience. Holiness starts at home…what we think at home, and what we view behind closed doors matter.
God has perfect vision, a perfect memory, and He's perfectly just. With those qualities, He will one day reward us for what we've done for Him in this life.
Ever ask questions of God which He seems to ignore? Perhaps He's not disregarding as much as redirecting?
Would you live in a house without walls? Me either. Yet many of us frequently place ourselves in just as much risk.
What do we do when our "assumptive world" falls apart? How are we to respond, when circumstances shatter our assumptions of how life will turn out?
Do prophecies from the 6th century BC have application to us today? Find out in the next 3 minutes!
It's a battle which wages at all times... Where's the balance between our right to personal property, and our responsibility to share?
We rarely hurt people with our words when we're perfectly happy, but oh how the crippling words can fly when we're not!
BTW - my wife is a very capable person, and she reads maps very well! (Listen, and you'll understand)! :)
Did you know "humble" is both an adjective AND a verb? But where is the path to humility? Listen for a few clues from God's Word.
Will joy and gladness ever return once grief has shattered our reality? Thankfully, God says it can and will. Listen for one example of how it did!
Can you keep the sun from rising or setting? Neither then can you keep God from forgiving your sins and accepting you as His beloved child!
If asked for one phrase you'd like to describe your life, would you have said a "watered garden?" Me either! But maybe after listening, you'll think differently.
Are you united with Christ’s church, working side by side to advance the faith? Have you kept the main thing the main thing?
Ever felt like you're not qualified to serve God in some way? If so, welcome to the club!
The masses with go with the flow don't do much for Christ. But the remnant which swims against the current, now they get things done for Him!
What does Christ do when we're tired, lonely, and confused? Take a listen and find out!
Two things are required for effective instruction and correction - do you know what they are? Do you have them? Listen to find out!
Enduring life's difficulties is great. Enduring them with patience, joy, and thankfulness is better!
Romans 9 reveals the heart of both Paul and God toward those outside the faith. It also gives us an opportunity to see if our heart aligns with theirs.
We know King David shepherded Israel with integrity of heart and with skillful hands. Can we apply those characteristics to our lives? Yes we can!
It's not just the baggage we've collected over the years which we need to set aside. We need to do the same with our trophies.
While His love and forgiveness are constants, we can also do things which bring His favor.
Have you lost a loved one? Do you get unexpected reminders that they're gone? If so, take a listen - I think you'll be comforted and encouraged.
Can can an army that's outnumbered 2:1 pull off a military victory? The answer may surprise you.
Ever struggle with stinginess? (Don't lie - we all have)! These 3 minutes may help you overcome it!
Life going exactly as you had planned? Mine isn't either! Don't despair, God has a better purpose in mind.
Why should we care about prophecies, like those in Daniel 11? If nothing else, they demonstrate that God keeps His word - often in miraculous ways!
How did we get to be a church with >200 denominations? What does it take to maintain unity? Give a listen and find out!
Do you have the right balance between what you take in and what flows out of you to others? Remember, for water to be living, it has to flow!
When we share God’s truth with others, we need to anticipate the possibility we won’t be well-received.
He would praise God in the morning. The context makes David's claim that much more remarkable.
God has a word for our partial obedience - He calls it disobedience. Negotiating with God's commands won't get us very far!
Facing something that looks impossible to you? Remember, your God specializes in the impossible!
Are you content for God to get the credit, or do you clamor for personal recognition? Let's learn from DL Moody today!
The consistent message of our culture is this - "The more you have, the happier you'll be." If true, why is ours, the wealthiest society in history, filled with desperately-sad people?
Ever felt too unworthy to talk to God? You're certainly not alone. But remember, He always welcomes His children.
We can have all the knowledge of what Christ expects, but if our faith doesn’t reach our feet we’re missing the point – and the blessing!
Don't worry about doing huge things for God. Just do the small things you can with great love!
The best place to kill a cobra is in its egg. Likewise, the best place to kill sin is before it's "hatched."
If you believe that your past sin and shame have permanently disqualified you from service to God, this message is for you!
A believer doesn't lose their fight against cancer (or any other illness), the world finally losing its grip on them.
The age-old battle between contentment and wanting more rages on. What role does money play in your world?
There is a balance to be found between enjoying the life we've been given, and looking out for the needs of others. Have you found that balance?
Ours is a "reasonable" faith. Are you willing to follow Paul's example of reasoning with others?
Ever feel like you're not doing enough, or that God doesn't see and appreciate your service? If so, these 2 minutes are for you!
Do we serve for recognition and the title involved? Jesus had much to say about the topic!
Something feel "incomplete" in your world? Listen in to see if THIS could this be the missing piece!
Loyal, tenacious friendships and great popularity rarely coexist - which will you choose?
It was a mighty embarrassing situation for me, but maybe it will remind all of us not to rush to judgment.
Do you ever struggle finding the balance between "your part" and "God's part?" If so, this episode is for you!
Nope - we're not talking about a trip to the dentist! It's Paul's command for us to open our hearts so we can love others well.
Discipline is never fun, but oh so necessary. In fact, Scripture says discipline is something in which we can actually hope!
Part 3. While God welcomes our prayers because He treasures us, and hears our prayers because it’s His nature to do so, He answers according to what He knows is needed, not necessarily what we want.
Part 2 of 3. Last time, we discussed how God hears each prayer while we’re still praying. Today, we'll look at why.
The first in a 3-part series on prayer taken from Daniel 9. When does God hear our prayers? While we're still speaking to Him!
We live in a culture that seems to have no problem persuading one another to our line of thinking. So why are we so hesitant to influence others about the one thing that’s truly going to matter when all is said and done?
S.W.A.G. – what a wonderful way to remind ourselves of how we are to spend our lives for Him – in Service, Worship, and bringing Him Glory. So, how’s your SWAGger?
Can love exist without forgiveness? Not very likely. True love is like paint, and forgiveness is the brush - apply both liberally!
Ever faced situations you thought might destroy you? Let's see how can God use them to bring genuine growth in your life.
Was the "Love Chapter" (1 Cor 13) written so couples could have flowery words in their wedding vows? When Paul wrote "Love always hopes," what did he mean?