Wisdom Unlocked: The Ways of God: Recent Episodes
Dave Buehring & Lionshare
In our world today, there is more information available than in any other time in history, but WISDOM is in short supply. In Lionshare’s podcast “Wisdom Unlocked: The Ways of God”, you’ll hear how learning about God’s character and ways are guides to wisdom. We discuss topics such as the importance of honoring others, guarding your heart, the misunderstood meaning of the fear of the Lord, the true meaning of humility, how obedience is the key to transformation, how to hear the voice of God, and finishing well. These are the keys to unlocking God’s wisdom. Join us on the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of each month.
Being known as a peacemaker is a profound honor in heaven, signifying a threat to evil and earning the proud recognition of God as His son or daughter. We are not supposed to be the cause of conflict. Peacemaking requires a meek, merciful, and pure heart that prioritizes God's glory and the well-being of His people over selfish concerns or earthly prestige. Jesus concludes the Beatitudes by moving from peacemaking to persecution; from reconciling relationships to experiencing rejection and hostility. Blessed are the persecuted for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
When available, episode notes are at Lionshare.org/podcast. Learn more about Lionshare's ministry at Lionshare.org Purchase books on discipleship and subscribe to teaching videos at Lionshare.org/store Download the Lionshare Leadership Group app for free video devotionals.
Jesus says the pure in heart will see God, but purity seems like a very high bar. We know God sees into our hearts because it reflects the “real me” and the “real you.”
When available, episode notes are at Lionshare.org/podcast. Learn more about Lionshare's ministry at Lionshare.org Purchase books on discipleship and subscribe to teaching videos at Lionshare.org/store Download the Lionshare Leadership Group app for free video devotionals.
We don’t think much about mercy until we need it. We don’t want to suffer the consequences when we have wronged someone. But when the shoe is on the other foot, we realize that it is far more satisfying to default to revenge and displays of strength. Jesus calls us to be merciful though. Will we obey?
When available, episode notes are at Lionshare.org/podcast. Learn more about Lionshare's ministry at Lionshare.org Purchase books on discipleship and subscribe to teaching videos at Lionshare.org/store Download the Lionshare Leadership Group app for free video devotionals.
If someone asked you what you hunger for, what would be your answer? Happiness? Time? Comfort? Healthy relationships? Financial security? Peace? Jesus tells us that we are blessed if we hunger and thirst for righteousness. It’s that piece of us that is bothered by injustice, desires strong character and conduct and longs to be in a right relationship with God. When we pursue those things, we will move from feeling empty to being satisfied.
When available, episode notes are at Lionshare.org/podcast. Learn more about Lionshare's ministry at Lionshare.org Purchase books on discipleship and subscribe to teaching videos at Lionshare.org/store Download the Lionshare Leadership Group app for free video devotionals.
Meekness conjures the idea of being a doormat, letting others trample over us. In our world, the meek person is not valued. But Jesus says the meek will inherit the earth. We must have the wrong idea of what it means to be meek. Theologian RT Kendall says, "It is the opposite of self-righteousness, arrogance, haughtiness, smugness and defensiveness." That sounds like something we all need, so how does it look to be meek?
When available, episode notes are at Lionshare.org/podcast. Learn more about Lionshare's ministry at Lionshare.org Purchase books on discipleship and subscribe to teaching videos at Lionshare.org/store Download the Lionshare Leadership Group app for free video devotionals.
“Happy are the unhappy” is how theologian John Stott explains what Jesus means when he says, “Blessed are those who mourn.” We commonly associate mourning with the death and loss of a loved one, but in the Sermon on the Mount, it’s about mourning our own sin and the consequences that come with our choices. So, how and when will we be comforted?
When available, episode notes are at Lionshare.org/podcast. Learn more about Lionshare's ministry at Lionshare.org Purchase books on discipleship and subscribe to teaching videos at Lionshare.org/store Download the Lionshare Leadership Group app for free video devotionals.
Every one of us has felt poor in spirit at one time or another. You might call it helpless, hopeless, desperate, broken or even just needy. We might consider that weak or pitiful, but in the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus is saying, “Congratulations! If you are broken, you are blessed.” What does He mean by that?
When available, episode notes are at Lionshare.org/podcast. Learn more about Lionshare's ministry at Lionshare.org Purchase books on discipleship and subscribe to teaching videos at Lionshare.org/store Download the Lionshare Leadership Group app for free video devotionals.
St. Augustine is the one who gave the name “Sermon on the Mount” to the teaching of Jesus in Matthew 5-7. It’s the closest account we have from Jesus on what He wants His disciples to be and do. The whole sermon contrasts how followers of Jesus live, act and think in comparison to the world around them. In the midst of all of the noise right now, what do we need to be focused on? Let’s get back to how Jesus wants us to live.
When available, episode notes are at Lionshare.org/podcast. Learn more about Lionshare's ministry at Lionshare.org Purchase books on discipleship and subscribe to teaching videos at Lionshare.org/store Download the Lionshare Leadership Group app for free video devotionals.
We've spent this season talking about the Leadership Games and the need for discipleship in the various fields where people work. We talked with believers in government, law and security; business; arts, entertainment & media, health, medicine & wholeness, and we're ending our series talking about the need to disciple people who work in ministry. That may sound strange because it seems like they should be the ones who have discipleship down! But many who work in the church and other para-church organizations will tell you it doesn't always happen there either. There's a difference between teaching discipleship and practicing it.
When available, episode notes are at Lionshare.org/podcast. Learn more about Lionshare's ministry at Lionshare.org Purchase books on discipleship and subscribe to teaching videos at Lionshare.org/store Download the Lionshare Leadership Group app for free video devotionals.
The need to improve our physical and mental health, and the idea of wholeness — these are top of mind for so many people today. Loneliness and anxiety are epidemics, we aren't taking care of our bodies, and people are turning to quick fixes. So it's important to have believers serving and teaching in these fields because they have access to people during times of vulnerability and pain that only God can heal. What challenges do they face, and why is it important to use the Holy Spirit as they work?
When available, episode notes are at Lionshare.org/podcast. Learn more about Lionshare's ministry at Lionshare.org Purchase books on discipleship and subscribe to teaching videos at Lionshare.org/store Download the Lionshare Leadership Group app for free video devotionals.
The fields of arts, entertainment and media have an outsized impact on our culture and society. Content, as it's called now, affect the way we think about and see the world. That's why it's so important that we need people who work in these industries to see their work as an expression of their faith. Listen to three leaders who are trying to put discipleship principles into practice in their work. What challenges do they face, and why does it matter?
When available, episode notes are at Lionshare.org/podcast. Learn more about Lionshare's ministry at Lionshare.org Purchase books on discipleship and subscribe to teaching videos at Lionshare.org/store Download the Lionshare Leadership Group app for free video devotionals.
Business is the backbone of modern civilization. It provides goods and services, creates jobs, and drives innovation. Of course, the goal is to make a profit but there are good ways to do business and bad ones as well. It is of great importance that we have godly people leading and running businesses — making money with integrity, treating employees and customers with honor, and being a positive impact on the communicty. Listen to three leaders who are trying to put discipleship principles into practice in their work. What challenges do they face and why is it important to bring God into financial decisions?
When available, episode notes are at Lionshare.org/podcast. Learn more about Lionshare's ministry at Lionshare.org Purchase books on discipleship and subscribe to teaching videos at Lionshare.org/store Download the Lionshare Leadership Group app for free video devotionals.
There seems to be a lot of hopelessness and cynicism when it comes our institutions - the government, the legal system and law enforcement & security. That's why it is so important to disciple believers who work in these fields to do their work according to godly principles, with humility and a heart of service. Listen to three leaders who are trying to do just that - what lessons are resonating and have been the most meaningful and the spiritual strongholds they face.
When available, episode notes are at Lionshare.org/podcast. Learn more about Lionshare's ministry at Lionshare.org Purchase books on discipleship and subscribe to teaching videos at Lionshare.org/store Download the Lionshare Leadership Group app for free video devotionals.
This season we're going to tell you about Lionshare's latest initiative - The Leadership Games. Why should you care? Because it's an embodiment of what intentional discipleship can look like. Lionshare intentionally gathered older leaders who were interested in discipling younger leaders. They spent a year training and then came to the Leadership Games to meet young leaders who had been invited to take part and expressed a desire to have someone disciple them. They were split up by vocational field - those working in health and mental health professions; business; arts & entertainment; government, law & security; and the church. What happened and is it working?
Leadership Games Young Leaders Video
Leadership Games Older Leaders Video
When available, episode notes are at Lionshare.org/podcast. Learn more about Lionshare's ministry at Lionshare.org Purchase books on discipleship and subscribe to teaching videos at Lionshare.org/store Download the Lionshare Leadership Group app for free video devotionals.
We Americans love our rights. We talk about them, we demand them. It’s woven into the fabric of who we are. But as Christians, we need to be aware that relinquishing our personal rights is essential to living in obedience to Jesus. As we approach the end of 2023 and start thinking about 2024, ask yourself – what are the things you are holding onto that hinder you. Do you make deals with God? As the saying goes, if Jesus isn’t Lord of all, then he’s not Lord at all.
Learn more about this topic in Chapter 2 of A Discipleship Journey: A Proven and Practical Tool for Making Disciples available at Lionshare.org/store. The National Disciple Making Forum takes place May 1-2 in Indianapolis. You can learn more about it and register at Discipleship.org.
When available, episode notes are at Lionshare.org/podcast. Learn more about Lionshare's ministry at Lionshare.org Purchase books on discipleship and subscribe to teaching videos at Lionshare.org/store Download the Lionshare Leadership Group app for free video devotionals.
We are well in the swing of the Christmas season. For many, that means a daily crush of gift buying, holiday parties, Christmas cards, the end of the school semester and on and on.
It’s all part of that relentless rush of life, but God intends for us to honor the Sabbath and to trust Him with our time – it’s His gift to us. We must allow God to guide us in incorporating rest into our lives intentionally. This includes seeking His presence, rejuvenating relationships, and finding mental and emotional rest. Lionshare’s founder and president Dave Buehring preached this sermon at Northway Christian Community in Pittsburgh on how God wants us to live and lead in peace, joy, and health, with a deep sense of His presence and purpose in our lives.
Books mentioned:
"Margin" by Dr. Richard Swenson
"The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry" by John Mark Comer
When available, episode notes are at Lionshare.org/podcast. Learn more about Lionshare's ministry at Lionshare.org Purchase books on discipleship and subscribe to teaching videos at Lionshare.org/store Download the Lionshare Leadership Group app for free video devotionals.
Lionshare held an event this summer called the Leadership Games. It was a different experience for two groups of people - the first, a set of older more seasoned leaders that prepared for a year to disciple a set of younger leaders in the ways of God. They met those young leaders at the Leadership Games in groups divided up by vocational field. Now, they are meeting for the next year to take them through Lionshare's primary discipleship tool called "A Discipleship Journey" and learning how to apply Scriptural principles in their personal and professional lives. Faith Radio's Carmen LaBerge who took part interviewed Dave Buehring about her experience as a leader and one of the hosts of the event. If you'd like to learn more about the Games, email laura@lionshare.org
When available, episode notes are at Lionshare.org/podcast. Learn more about Lionshare's ministry at Lionshare.org Purchase books on discipleship and subscribe to teaching videos at Lionshare.org/store Download the Lionshare Leadership Group app for free video devotionals.
We all have something. Something we’ve prayed about for a very long time. Waiting is hard, but God does something in the midst of it. He reveals His goodness through the work He is doing inside of us. God grows our dependence, aligns our hearts, and builds our trust in His timing. Listen to Dave Buehring's teaching on this topic at Northway Christian Community.
When available, episode notes are at Lionshare.org/podcast. Learn more about Lionshare's ministry at Lionshare.org Purchase books on discipleship and subscribe to teaching videos at Lionshare.org/store Download the Lionshare Leadership Group app for free video devotionals.
Jesus did not have a warring mentality except when it came to the devil. He was ready with Scripture. Are you ready for spiritual warfare? Listen as Dave Buehring explains the concept of "playing fast" and how you can anticipate the tactics that will be used against you.
Check out our episode notes for Scripture verses related to this episode at Lionshare.org/podcast. You can also check out Chapter 8 in Lionshare’s primary discipleship resource – A Discipleship Journey. And get a copy of the e-book “Spiritual Warfare in the Workplace” by going to Lionshare.org/free-e-books. All these links are in the episode description on your phone or in the Lionshare Leadership Group app.
When available, episode notes are at Lionshare.org/podcast. Learn more about Lionshare's ministry at Lionshare.org Purchase books on discipleship and subscribe to teaching videos at Lionshare.org/store Download the Lionshare Leadership Group app for free video devotionals.
We can't possibly sift through all the information that is available to us . There is an overwhelming and constant flow of studies, data, ads and reels that claim they can transform our minds, bodies and eating habits. When it comes to our spiritual lives, there is an endless stream of sermons, teaching clips, soundbites and podcasts that promise life change. But how do you know if any of it is true? Which ones should we trust? Which voice do we listen to?
Check out the False Jesus podcast and newsletter at falsejesus.substack.com or wherever your listen to podcasts. Learn more about Kent and Erica Chevalier's ministry with Athletes in Action and the Pittsburgh Steelers here.
When available, episode notes are at Lionshare.org/podcast. Learn more about Lionshare's ministry at Lionshare.org Purchase books on discipleship and subscribe to teaching videos at Lionshare.org/store Download the Lionshare Leadership Group app for free video devotionals.
Did you know that God wars on your behalf? Sometimes we forget that, even when we are in the midst of wrestling through challenging and difficult times. He is your warrior so take courage today. He always wins!
Episode notes available at Lionshare.org/podcast. Learn more about Lionshare's ministry at Lionshare.org Purchase books on discipleship and subscribe to teaching videos at Lionshare.org/store Download the Lionshare Leadership Group app for free video devotionals
There are aspects of God's character that we don't fully understand. One of those is the description of God as Consuming Fire. That sounds a bit scary, something or someone to be feared. But what does this name of God tell us about Him and what He wants for us? Episode notes available here. Learn more about our ministry at Lionshare.org
Episode notes available at Lionshare.org/podcast. Learn more about Lionshare's ministry at Lionshare.org Purchase books on discipleship and subscribe to teaching videos at Lionshare.org/store Download the Lionshare Leadership Group app for free video devotionals
Jealousy is bad, right? We are jealous when something we have is threatened by someone else. We envy when we wish we had something someone else has. So why is God jealous?. God doesn't need anything from us. The key comes from understanding that God isn’t jealous of us, he’s jealous for us.
Episode notes available at Lionshare.org/podcast. Learn more about Lionshare's ministry at Lionshare.org Purchase books on discipleship and subscribe to teaching videos at Lionshare.org/store Download the Lionshare Leadership Group app for free video devotionals
It's been a little over a month since the shooting in Nashville where six people were killed. We know we live in a world of injustice, but something like this often leaves us wondering where is God's justice?
Episode notes available at Lionshare.org/podcast. Learn more about Lionshare's ministry at Lionshare.org Purchase books on discipleship and subscribe to teaching videos at Lionshare.org/store Download the Lionshare Leadership Group app for free video devotionals
When it comes to God and healing, there are so many unanswered questions and often we as Christians get in the way by trying to answer them ourselves. God declares that He is Jehovah Rapha - the God who heals. What do we get right and wrong about this attribute of God?
You can learn more about the character of God by watching Dave’s Devotionals for free on the Lionshare Leadership Group app. Just download it from the app store and click on that month’s devotionals. Two minutes a day reflecting on 101 attributes of God over the course of a year.
And graduation season is upon us. Consider giving Dave’s book The Great Opportunity: Making Disciples of Jesus in Every Vocation as a gift to the graduate in your life. It challenges Christians to connect their work to their calling and look at that work through the grid of the Great Commission. Check it out at Lionshare.org/store.
Episode notes available at Lionshare.org/podcast. Learn more about Lionshare's ministry at Lionshare.org Purchase books on discipleship and subscribe to teaching videos at Lionshare.org/store Download the Lionshare Leadership Group app for free video devotionals
This season, we are focusing on how God is misrepresented and misunderstood by the Church and by non-believers. First up, God's anger and wrath. Nobody wants to talk about an angry God. We want to talk about HIs love and kindness, but we see many references to His anger in the Scriptures. Why is God angry and is He angry at me?
You can learn more about the character of God by watching Dave’s Devotionals for free on the Lionshare Leadership Group app. Just download it from the app store and click on that month’s devotionals. Two minutes a day reflecting on 101 attributes of God over the course of a year.
Episode notes available at Lionshare.org/podcast. Learn more about Lionshare's ministry at Lionshare.org Purchase books on discipleship and subscribe to teaching videos at Lionshare.org/store Download the Lionshare Leadership Group app for free video devotionals
Lionshare's founder and president Dave Buehring concludes his sermon on the Transformed Life. God transforms us not only for our benefit but so we can make an impact by advancing HIs Kingdom and bringing glory to His name. Advancing the Kingdom is the mission of the Church. It's why we are here on Earth. We should be telling people about Jesus, making disciples and living in such a way that enhances the reputation of God in the eyes of others.
Episode notes available at Lionshare.org/podcast. Learn more about Lionshare's ministry at Lionshare.org Purchase books on discipleship and subscribe to teaching videos at Lionshare.org/store Download the Lionshare Leadership Group app for free video devotionals
Lionshare's founder and president Dave Buehring continues his sermon series on the Transformed Life. The way that we love others is how we and the world around us can show that we have been transformed by Jesus. 1st Corinthians 13 is our guide.
Episode notes available at Lionshare.org/podcast. Learn more about Lionshare's ministry at Lionshare.org Purchase books on discipleship and subscribe to teaching videos at Lionshare.org/store Download the Lionshare Leadership Group app for free video devotionals
Lionshare's founder and president Dave Buehring continues his sermon series on the Transformed Life. Our Heavenly Father wants to reconcile you to Himself, shower you with His love and forgiveness, and welcome you into His heavenly family. But he also wants to form you to look more like His Son. God is more concerned with developing your character than He is with your comfort. He is the God of all comfort, but His priority is to transform us to look more like Jesus!
Episode notes available at Lionshare.org/podcast. Learn more about Lionshare's ministry at Lionshare.org Purchase books on discipleship and subscribe to teaching videos at Lionshare.org/store Download the Lionshare Leadership Group app for free video devotionals
Lionshare's founder and president Dave Buehring kicks off a 4-part sermon series called "The Transformed Life," diving into what it means to live a life being transformed by Jesus. It's not just about knowledge of the Bible. If there's no application, transformation doesn't happen. It's obeying what God is revealing that brings about transformation.
Episode notes available at Lionshare.org/podcast. Learn more about Lionshare's ministry at Lionshare.org Purchase books on discipleship and subscribe to teaching videos at Lionshare.org/store Download the Lionshare Leadership Group app for free video devotionals
Most people pray for the children in our lives, but do we really seek God on their behalf? There’s a difference between bedtime prayers, prayers for safety and good outcomes vs. intentionally spending time with God to see what He wants to say to you about your kids. In this episode, we discuss how you can seek God on behalf of the children in your lives.
Episode notes available at Lionshare.org/podcast. Learn more about Lionshare's ministry at Lionshare.org Purchase books on discipleship and subscribe to teaching videos at Lionshare.org/store Download the Lionshare Leadership Group app for free video devotionals
One of the things that stands out about Jesus is the way he related to people. He spoke to the weak and vulnerable. He dined with the "enemy." He called His disciples his friends. God cares how we treat others. How do we teach children to be good "relaters?"
Episode notes available at Lionshare.org/podcast. Learn more about Lionshare's ministry at Lionshare.org Purchase books on discipleship and subscribe to teaching videos at Lionshare.org/store Download the Lionshare Leadership Group app for free video devotionals
God has designed us with a purpose and a desire for purpose. It’s innate to the human DNA to want to be a part of something bigger than ourselves. Research finds that this is especially true of younger generations, and it’s something that even children long for. How do we teach and invest in children so that they can be on mission with Jesus?
Episode notes available at Lionshare.org/podcast. Learn more about Lionshare's ministry at Lionshare.org Purchase books on discipleship and subscribe to teaching videos at Lionshare.org/store Download the Lionshare Leadership Group app for free video devotionals
We know we’re supposed to disciple our children, but it feels overwhelming. Even though there are countless devotionals, Bible studies and books for teaching children about Jesus, where do we start?
Episode notes available at Lionshare.org/podcast. Learn more about Lionshare's ministry at Lionshare.org Purchase books on discipleship and subscribe to teaching videos at Lionshare.org/store Download the Lionshare Leadership Group app for free video devotionals
The Scriptures say the Holy Spirit gives us spiritual gifts so we can help each other, but do children receive them too? Kids do have a role on God’s team. We discuss how to help them figure out their gifts and how they manifest when they are young. Episode notes available here. Purchase A Discipleship Journey Kids at the Lionshare store.
Learn more about Lionshare's ministry at Lionshare.org
Episode notes available at Lionshare.org/podcast
Purchase books on discipleship and subscribe to teaching videos at Lionshare.org/store
Download the Lionshare Leadership Group app for free video devotionals
God speaks to us but do we hear him? Learning to hear His voice is something we all should do. In “A Discipleship Journey Kids,” we learn that you are never too young to hear the voice of God. Episode notes are available here. Order your copy of "A Discipleship Journey Kids" here. Learn more about Lionshare's ministry here.
To truly prepare our children for faith-filled adulthood, we need to consider reframing “children’s ministry” as something closer to “child discipleship.” That’s the conclusion of a new study from the Barna Group and Awana. But how do we disciple the children in our lives? Check out episode notes here. Order "A Discipleship Journey Kids" and subscribe to the animated video series here. Learn more about our ministry at Lionshare.org
The image of God you carry around in your heart and mind affects the way you live your daily life. For too many of us, that image is flawed, Scripture refers to God as our Father. That can be a source of comfort if you have a good relationship with your dad. But if you didn’t, it’s an obstacle that is hard to overcome. Listen as we discuss how our Heavenly Father desires to “re-parent” us. Episode notes here. Learn more about our ministry at Lionshare.org Learn more about Pastor Sean Holland here.
You’re familiar with 1 Corinthians 13: Love is patient, love is kind, yada, yada, yada. But often, familiarity leads us to skip or gloss over important Scriptures. In the days we are living, it is very important that we understand what love is and what it is not. Episode notes here. Learn more about our ministry at Lionshare.org.
How do we practice the way of Jesus when we’re bumping into people that hard to love, and people that we disagree with? What does love require of us? The parable of the Good Samaritan teaches us to love regardless, and we do that by practicing the spiritual discipline of seeing, engaging people’s mess, and showing compassion even when it’s risky. Episode notes here. Heather Zempel's book about navigating small group dynamics "Community is Messy" is available here. Learn more about our ministry at Lionshare.org
Leadership isn’t just about being confident, getting the most out of people and achieving success. It’s about leading the way God wants us to lead. That includes truly examining ourselves, stopping behaviors that hinder us and making choices that help us thrive. We will only lead in a godly way when we follow what the Scriptures tell us about ourselves and our image of God. Episode notes available here. Learn more about our ministry at Lionshare.org
God often uses our life circumstances to bring us to the end of ourselves, leaving us completely yielded and dependent on Him. That’s easier to accept in theory than in practice. In the midst of the pandemic, Lionshare board member Kent Chevalier lost his brother to Covid, lost the primary way of doing his job and had to deal with bitterness and anger in his family of origin. It all led to brokenness. None of it was taken care of by Christian platitudes and his wife had to dig deep to support him. Hear their story and know that God is a friend to the broken. Episode notes available here. Learn more about brokenness in Chapter 2 of A Discipleship Journey: A Proven and Practical Tool for Making Disciples available at Lionshare.org/store and subscribe to the teaching videos that accompany the book. Learn more about Kent & Erica Chevalier’s ministry with the Pittsburgh Steelers here. Subscribe to Kent’s newsletter “False Jesus” here.
Are all words relative or neutral in meaning? Does our standard of word choice always come down to intent or just what we’re personally convicted by? John 1:1-2 says that from the beginning, there was the Word and the Word was God. Ultimately, it’s God that puts a premium on words. God has much to say about how we live our lives and that includes
how we exercise the power and choice of our words. Our words matter to God and they should matter to us. Episode notes at Lionshare.org/podcast Blog referenced in the episode: Is Cussing Or Cursing A Sin? Learn more about ministry at Lionshare.org
It’s one thing to surrender your rights so you can better serve God and others, but it’s another thing to die to self. We die to self-will to do God’s will. We die to self-pleasing in order to please God. We die to relying only on ourselves to put our full trust in God. How do we do that? Episode notes available here. Learn more about our ministry at Lionshare.org
We Americans love our rights. Our country was built on them. We love to proclaim them, any time we feel someone has infringed on them. But God calls us to servanthood and that means surrendering a lot of things we think we have a right to. Are you willing to lay down your rights to better serve God and others and be available to Him for His purposes? Episode notes available here. Learn more about our ministry at Lionshare.org
Wisdom says that we’re permitted to speak into others’ lives only to the degree they allow us. But not all friendships are equal and not all require the same commitment. So, what are the different spheres (or levels) of friendships in our lives and how do we prioritize them within healthy boundaries? In this episode, we discuss the characteristics and responsibilities of four spheres of friendships and how God has called us to tend to those and love people well there. Find episode notes here. Learn more about our ministry at Lionshare.org Follow Mel Mills here.
The cost of discipleship is more than just about saying “yes,” but also what we’re saying “no” to. The ministry of availability is a commitment of discipleship that promises access to your life within healthy boundaries. Are you available to those you want to influence and teach? Lionshare board members Mel Mills and Kent Chevalier discuss the principles of focus, margin, and the ability to say “no” to even good things so that the greater things can be realized. Learn more about our ministry at Lionshare.org. and order "A Discipleship Journey" at Lionshare.org/store. More about the hosts: You can follow entrepreneur and author Mel Mills at twitter.com/theMelMills and Kent Chevalier, the chaplain of the Pittsburgh Steelers at teamchevalier.com
No one likes to talk about weakness, but God loves weakness. The Apostle Paul encourages us to see ourselves as needy and powerless, but we live in a culture where we don’t want to show any vulnerabilities. That’s an opening for attack. But the Scriptures tell us God’s power is made perfect in weakness. How do we live that way? Episode notes available here. Learn more about ministry and purchase "A Discipleship Journey" at Lionshare.org
The new year is a time to reset. We reflect, we plan and we take action. But how about starting 2022 with something different — repentance? Taking time for confessions seems like a lost spiritual discipline these days. The heart and act of repentance that should follow takes humility and courage. It's hard but worth it. Episode notes at Lionshare.org/podcast. Learn more about our ministry at Lionshare.org
We’ve prepared a bonus episode for you featuring a sermon Lionshare’s founder and president Dave Buehring gave last month at Grace Chapel Fairview. He spoke on 1 John chapter 4. In verse 1 it says “Beloved, do not believe every spirit but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, for many false prophets have gone out into the world.” What does it mean to test the spirits? Dave shares three questions we can ask to discern whether teachings and teachers are true and he challenges us to test ourselves as well. To learn more about Lionshare - our ministry and resources, go to Lionshare.org
During the last episode, we learned that Jesus paced Himself. He was surrounded by needs but he wasn't driven by them. He obeyed only what God the Father showed Him to do. He rested with His friends and was restored through life-giving relationships. How do we break from our frenetic pace? Listen to three guests from three walks of life who share small steps they've taken to follow Jesus' pace. Learn more at Lionshare.org
We are six months into the year. For most of us, those resolutions we made at the beginning of the year and some of the lessons we learned during the worst of the pandemic are in the rearview mirror. We’re back to being overly busy. Can Jesus relate? He spent a short time on Earth. He had a lot to do. He was surrounded by need but, He was never in a hurry and always on time. What can we learn from Jesus and can we do the same? Episode notes here. Vote for our podcast here. Learn more about our ministry at Lionshare.org
You have likely heard about the armor of God and how we can protect ourselves in the midst of spiritual warfare. But have you ever stopped to think which of the devil’s weapons work best against you? The first step is to know what tactics he likes to use. The second is to realize which ones work the best against you. Find episode notes here. Learn more about spiritual warfare, by downloading Lionshare’s free e-book here. To learn more about our ministry, go to Lionshare.org Save the Date! On June 1st., you can vote for us as Best Podcast (Co-Hosted) at https://www.sparkmedia.ventures/site/awards
The words “spiritual warfare” can promote a visceral reaction. Some Christians don’t want to talk about it all. Some Christians talk about it too much. And most of us haven’t thought about it in the context of work. But think about it— taking something that doesn’t belong to me; saying something unkind and untrue about someone so I am the one promoted; undermining my boss out of spite for not giving me the raise I deserve. These represent a handful of the kinds of temptations that face us at work, and the enemy of our soul wants us to make bad choices. So what can we do? Episode notes available here. Free e-book on this topic available here. Learn more about our ministry at Lionshare.org
The word "single" seems altogether different than the word "individual." Individuality and individual rights and freedoms sound strong. "Single" can feel incomplete, even among single Christians who sometimes feel overlooked by the church because of its emphasis on family, children and marriage. What are the ways of God when it comes to singleness? Learn more about our ministry at Lionshare.org
When we think of the ways of God, we tend to think about serious matters and lofty ideals. But since we are made in God's image, we know that He has a sense of humor and loves to celebrate. Celebration, including acts of remembrance and demonstrations of honor, are all over the Scriptures. In this episode, we celebrate the one year anniversary of the Wisdom Unlocked podcast and answer the question: “Did Dave Buehring have a mustache and what happened when he shaved it off? Episode notes available here. To learn more about our ministry, go to Lionshare.org
Most of us will agree that the last 12 months have been hard. As we’ve already witnessed, things did not magically get better when the calendar flipped to January 1, 2021. But three months into 2021, it’s not too late for you to seize your great opportunity. Episode notes available here. The book "The Great Opportunity: Making Disciples of Jesus in Every Vocation" available at your local bookstore or online at Amazon and Barnes & Noble. Learn more about our ministry at Lionshare.org
In the Scriptures, we find God calling people to participate with Him in His purposes. He puts His hand on the life of a man or woman and shapes them into a “polished arrow” in His hands. Isaiah became that polished arrow. He saw God which led to his shaping by God, resulting in his sending by God. But often we miss that middle step. We see God and quickly rush as fast as we can through the shaping part so we can go and do amazing things for Him. But we will regret it if we miss being shaped. Episode notes here. Learn more about ministry at Lionshare.org
It’s often said that integrity is measured by what you do when no one else is watching. But as followers of Jesus, it’s more than that—it’s about our hearts. Acting with integrity is not only something we should do; it comes from within. It’s a measure of our character, and something the world needs and wants. Episode notes here. Learn more about our ministry at Lionshare.org
It's rare to find someone who likes to forgive. We feel justified in refusing to forgive someone. They wronged us! Or we feel they aren't sufficiently contrite. Often, it's easier to hold onto unforgiveness, than to humble ourselves and forgive. How do we really do it? And how do we know if we have? Episode notes here. Send in comments and questions about Wisdom Unlocked here. Learn more about ministry at Lionshare.org
In our last episode, we discussed being offended and how we shouldn’t “pick up offenses.” We decided to dig a little deeper into that because so much of the world right now is engaged in expressing strong opinions, battling to be right, and there almost seems to be an industry around being offended! This episode, we discuss what it means to operate in the opposite spirit. It’s something Jesus did so we should too. Episode notes at Lionshare.org/podcast. Learn more about our ministry at Lionshare.org
It seems like everyone is offended these days, whether it be our opinion on politics, the church, race, vaccines, sports and yes, even masks. Offense usually leads to anger, and we have the bad habit of saying we are “righteously angry” to excuse bad behavior. What do the Scriptures have to say about being offended? And is it possible to choose to NOT be offended?
At Lionshare, we often reference the practice of “beginning with the end in mind.” So, in the first week of January, let’s do that. Let’s begin the year with the end in mind, not necessarily the end of 2021 but with the idea of “finishing well.” Research shows that on average, only one in three spiritual leaders from the Bible, church history, and in modern times finish well. We certainly had some high-profile examples of that in the last year. In this episode, we revisit our discussion about engaging in practices to keep you from finishing poorly. Episode notes are available at Lionshare.org/podcast. Learn more about ministry at Lionshare.org
In this advent season, Jesus’ name Emmanuel reminds us that God is with us. His act of coming to Earth as a baby and putting on the constraints of being a human was an act of humility. In this episode, we revisit our discussion on humility—how it does not rule the day in our culture. It’s looked upon as a sign of weakness. What are some practical steps we can take to live a humble life, and what do we often forget?
Most of us will agree that 2020 has been hard. There’s no guarantee that when the calendar flips to January 1, 2021 that things will magically get better. But 2021 could be the year that you seize your great opportunity. Episode notes here. Join the online book club by emailing info@lionshare.org. Learn more about ministry at Lionshare.org
We may consider our work just a job or a means to a paycheck but have you ever thought about how what you do is rooted in who God is? If you work in construction, God is the master builder. If you’re an artist, God the Creator has put his artistry on display. If you work in business, God is the master who expects a return on his investment. If you take care of children, God is our teacher and wants to be our Abba father. If you work in technology, God is the ultimate, instant processor. If you care about the environment, remember He gave us the job of stewarding his creation. Thinking about our work through this lens helps us see how our work shapes our character and how God can work in and through us. Episode notes here and to learn more about our ministry go to Lionshare.org
It's Election Day and everyone is talking about who will lead our country on the national, state and local levels. Instead of talking about Christians and voting, Christians and political parties, and how the Church is viewed by the world, let's talk about how to be and develop godly leaders. Our guest Heather Zempel, discipleship pastor at National Community Church in Washington, D.C., talks about what is going right in the world of faith and politics and what she says to Christians who are struggling to be in relationship with fellow believers who are “on the other side.” Episode notes here. To learn more about our ministry go to Lionshare.org
If you call someone salty these days, it means they’re irritated or angry. But that’s not what Jesus meant when he called us to be salt and light. This episode, we dig into what that looks like on the job and why it’s a wise way to show God’s way of doing things. For more on a godly perspective on work, go to Lionshare.org for three free e-books. Episode notes here.
We have enough on our plates. Working hard, caring for family, developing friendships, making ends meet, saving money, exercising, eating healthy, finding a spouse, cultivating our relationship with God, and a whole host of other responsibilities. On top of all that, we are supposed to make disciples? Dave Buehring tackles how we can’t look at disciple making as another item we check off on our “to do” list. And, how it’s different from mentoring and coaching.
Defining Terms
- Disciple – one who loves, obeys and serves Jesus
- Disciple Maker – one who deliberately models and teaches another to love, obey and serve Jesus
- Disciple Making – reproducing the character, ways and mission of Jesus in those around you, expecting them to multiply the same in others
- What is the difference between disciple making, mentoring and coaching?
- Mentoring – a relationship that passes on skills, knowledge and experience to
another on any topic - Coaching – Guiding people towards discovering answers through well asked
questions - Disciple Making – how to follow Jesus as His disciple in any and all areas of one’s
life; always tethered to God’s ways in scripture
- Mentoring – a relationship that passes on skills, knowledge and experience to
*It matters who is doing the mentoring, coaching or disciple making. If that person is
incorporating Biblical principles into their guidance and counsel.
Scripture Reference
“And He (Christ) himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds
(pastors) and teachers, to equip the saints (his people) for the work of ministry for building up
the body of Christ.” ~ Ephesians 4:11-12 (ESV)
Pastors and teachers are supposed to equip us (believers) for the work of ministry. Who better to disciple someone who wants to start a company than someone who has already faced the challenges of being a godly entrepreneur? Who better to disciple a mother of young children than someone who has survived and learned lessons from that season of life? Making disciples means coming alongside people in a relationship built on trust and being able to point them to God’s ways and truth.
For more on this subject, pick up a copy of The Great Opportunity: Making Disciples of Jesus in Every Vocation.
For more on walking under authority, check out Chapter 7 in A Discipleship
Journey, Lionshare’s primary tool for discipleship here.
© 2020 Dave Buehring / Lionshare, All Rights Reserved.
Does God care about my job? Often, we put our spiritual life in one category, and our work life in another. But the answer is YES, He does care about our work! Not only does He care, He created work. Instead of using the words “job,” “work,” “profession,” or “career,” have you thought of your work as your vocation—something tied to your calling and how God has wired you?
In the 1960s and 1970s, YWAM’s Loren Cunningham, CRU’s Bill Bright, and Francis Schaeffer started discussing the idea of spheres of influence. They outlined seven: 1) Family 2) Church 3) Government 4) Education 5) Media 6) Arts, Entertainment and Sports 7) Business. Because of the way the world has changed since then, Dave Buehring added 8) Science and Technology 9) Health, Medicine and Wholeness 10) Agriculture, Environment and Zoology 11) Non-Profits and Service Organizations 12) Peoples (people groupings by race, ethnicity, language, affinities)
Scripture References
Psalm 24:1 – The Earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it; for He founded it on the seas and established it on the waters. (NIV)
John 1:3 – Through Him all things were made; without Him nothing was made that has been made. (NIV)
Vocation Defined
We swap that word out of work, job, profession or we think of it only in the sacred context
The root word of vocation is the Latin vocation—work combined with or married to God’s calling or leading on our lives.
Consider how you’ve been uniquely made to do certain things, how God has wired you, your
natural abilities, acquired skills, and spiritual gifts.
Vocation is a combination of how you’re wired, God’s calling on your life and your work.
Martin Luther quotes on this topic
- “God Himself is milking the cows through the vocation of the milkmaid.”
- “The idea that service to God should have only to do with the church altar, singing, reading, sacrifice, and the like is without doubt the worst trick of the devil. How could the devil have led us more effectively astray than by the narrow conception that service to God takes place only in church and by works done therein…The whole world could abound with services to the Lord…not only churches but also in home, kitchen workshop and field.”
Chapter 2 of the new book The Great Opportunity: Making Disciples of Jesus in Every Vocation describes how Isaiah was made into a polished arrow.” The concept of Seeing—Shaping—Sending. He sees God (encounters Him), He is shaped by God, and he is sent by God.
Too many people have an encounter with God (seeing) and run right away to sending (engaging in their calling/cause), and skip the shaping process. God wants to develop our character before He sends us.
“While you are in your 20s and 30s, it’s more about what God is building in you than what He is doing through you.” – Dave Buehring
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2020 Dave Buehring / Lionshare, All Rights Reserved.
This week, we revisit one of our first episodes about waiting on God. We hate waiting. We try to avoid it as much as we can—in the mundane and even for important things. But in the Bible, we are reminded over and over again about the importance of waiting on God. If we don’t wait to hear from Him, we default to proceeding with our own plans and ideas. The Scriptures tell us to wait in oneness, in stillness, and in anticipation. As you head into Labor Day weekend, schedule some time to do this. Wait on Him as you head into the busyness of fall and the end of the craziest year in our lifetimes. Episode notes here. Learn more about our ministry at Lionshare.org
Research shows that on average, one in three spiritual leaders from the Bible, church history, and modern Christian leaders finishes well. Does that number surprise you? What does finishing well mean? We define that concept, discuss the barriers to finishing well, and some practices to keep you from finishing poorly. Episode notes here. Learn more about our ministry at Lionshare.org
Are you being transformed or are you stuck? So often, our interaction with God tends to be functional. We have our list of “wants” and “needs” that we want Him to fulfill. We also work hard at learning about Him through His word. But notebooks full of information from Bible studies we’ve done don’t translate to a transformed life. Knowledge doesn’t mean a lot if there isn’t application. To be transformed into the likeness of Jesus, we need Scripture and the activity of the Holy Spirit to bring revelation. Then, we can obey the things that have been revealed to us and we become more like Jesus. Episode notes available here. To learn more about our ministry go to Lionshare.org
Misrepresented. Isn’t that how many of us feel? Isn’t that how God must feel right now? Both Christians and non-Christians quote the Bible to justify their beliefs and actions. But do we really know God? Do we take time to study His character, not just the things He did? In this episode, learn about how the image of God you carry around in your heart and mind affects the way you live your daily life. Our reactions to what happens in life reveal what we really believe about God. Episode notes here. Learn more about our ministry at Lionshare.org
We don’t like the word “obey.” It sounds hard, legalistic and even manipulative. But obeying Jesus shouldn’t be difficult because of who we are putting our trust in. Obedience isn’t really about following a list of do’s and don’ts; it’s about following what God has revealed to you to do or stop doing. It is the key to transformation. The Bible tells us Jesus learned obedience. Since He did, we can too. Stories of obedience in the Old Testament and New Testament show us that obedience brought transformation, both in the lives of the ones who obeyed and to the world around them. Episode notes available here. For more about our ministry go to Lionshare.org
Humility is not valued in our culture. It’s looked upon as a sign of weakness or often manifests as false humility. But God values humility and it is both a fearlessly honest appraisal of yourself before Him AND it neither minimizes one’s achievements nor exaggerates one’s failures. We unlock wisdom when we care about what God cares about. What are some practical steps we can take to live a humble life and what do we often forget? Episode notes available here. Learn more about our ministry at Lionshare.org
One of the most misunderstood concepts in the Bible is the “fear of the Lord.” Fear is a word with a negative connotation. We condemn anyone or anything that causes fear; we react from a place of fear; we take medications to calm fear and anxiety. But the Bible lists promises for those who fear God. Is there a disconnect? Isn’t God supposed to be loving? Why are we asked to practice “the fear of the Lord?” Episode notes here. For more about our ministry go to Lionshare.org
When was the last time you heard God’s voice? Is that even possible today? There are many ways He communicates with us but it’s important that we discern if what we have heard through Scripture, the Holy Spirit’s impressions and through others is from Him. Learn about the “triple confirmation” test and how you can hear the voice of God. Episode notes available here. Learn more about our ministry at Lionshare.org
Honoring someone is usually due to someone’s performance or achievement – a sports championship or a new record, a milestone such as a 50th wedding anniversary, a new job or even 25 years at the same company. That’s not wrong but a Biblical value system has other measures of honor including character, because we are made in God’s image and reflect His character, and our intrinsic value because Jesus sacrificed His life for us. So why is dishonor so pervasive in our culture? Episode notes available here. Learn more about ministry at Lionshare.org
Our hearts are under attack. We are wounded by others, we suffer from the consequences of our own sin and we struggle with deep disappointments, betrayal, offenses, rejection and abandonment. These attacks produce hopelessness, cynicism, isolation, anger, a desire for revenge and living life in “survival mode.” But we don’t have to live this way. The ways of God show us how to guard our hearts by running to repentance, being fast to forgive, opting out of offense, holding firm to the fear of the Lord and trending towards trust. Episode notes available here. Learn more about our ministry at Lionshare.org
We hate waiting. We try to avoid it as much as we can – in the mundane (standing in lines, slow internet speeds, honking the horn when a driver takes too long) and even for important things (a spouse, a job, a big decision). But in the Bible, we are reminded over and over again about the importance of waiting on God. If we don’t wait to hear from Him, we default to proceeding with our own plans and ideas. The Scriptures show us to wait in oneness, in stillness and in anticipation. Have you ever taken time to do that? Episode notes here. Learn more about our ministry at lionshare.org
Learn more about our ministry at Lionshare.org
This episode defines the phrase “the ways of God,” something we see throughout the Bible. We read in Psalm 103 that God made His ways known to Moses, His acts to the people of Israel. David asks in Psalm 25 “Make me to know your ways, O LORD…” Lionshare’s Dave Buehring explains that “the ways of God” means God’s path on a matter, how God does stuff and how He wants us to approach life. Episode notes here. Learn more about ministry at Lionshare.org
Learn more about ministry at lionshare.org
Introducing a brand new podcast from Lionshare.org called “Unlocking Wisdom - The Ways of God”, beginning April 7.