PocketNeif Podcast: Recent Episodes
Mike Neifert
My name is Mike Neifert. I am a husband, dad, pastor, lunchroom guy, runner, coach, bus driver, scoreboard operator, songwriter. In each of these roles I experience joy and pressure. This podcast shares the feelings in my heart, the thoughts in my mind, and the songs the pop out of my mouth once in a while. Each new episode posts on Friday morning at 4:00AM. (You can hear my sermons on the Friendly Words podcast hosted by Pratt Friends Church.)
While working on a sermon about Psalm 24, I wrote a third, Jesus-focused verse to my song Who Is This King of Glory? to honor our savior. I share the full song with this new verse in this episode.
I went to a baptismal and listened to more than two dozen people promise to follow Jesus as Lord before they went down into the water. I thought about that promise and reflected on the difficulty of living it out daily.
What you do on a regular basis, you will produce on a regular basis. It's true in sports and in life, even spiritual life.
Our church has visitors pretty regularly on Sunday morning, but fairly infrequently on Wednesday nights. A couple of strangers showed up a week or so ago and it was good.
After discovering I'd shared all of my fully-completed worship songs on this platform, Psalm 16 inspired a new song of praise to the God who is our shelter, our safe refuge. I trust You Keep Me Safe, Lord will encourage your faith in him.
I was caught off guard by a question following a sermon on Psalm 63. I'd been talking about experiencing dry times and a visitor brought up Jesus' words to the woman at the well about never thirsting. How do you reconcile these things?
I have a spreadsheet which lists all the songs I've written and indicates whether I've posted them to YouTube or to this podcast. I recently discovered I'm basically out of serious songs to add to the PocketNeif podcast. Yikes! What does this mean for this show? For my life?
I do not love root beer. It's ok, but not a fav. When I ran across a root beer flavored sparkling water in the clearance aisle at the local grocers, I almost passed it up. I looked at the low price and...bit. It was, for me, a win. For my wife?
What do Jonah and Peter have in common? More than you suspect. While listening to a recent episode of the Ten Minute Bible Hour, I discovered an amazing connection between the two.
Listen to TMBH bonus episode to learn more...
https://open.spotify.com/episode/74Hmrfd5pKbo8bYw1d8CyH?si=2a52175013e44bdf
I was taken aback while talking with a worship leader at a concert a few years ago. He said something about music which stunned me. Thinking back on his words, I've come to this conclusion: A song is a song if it's created and sung. It's a worship song if it is written for and sung to God.
About 11 years ago, I wrote a short chorus inviting sinners to return to God. I wrote it from God's perspective, so it felt like a person plea for repentance. I recorded my original idea, then forgot about the project. A week or two ago, I found the original work and finished writing Return to Me, O Sinner. I pray it will encourage you to turn to God and find freedom.
Return to Me, O Sinner
Verse 1:
Return to me, O Sinner. Leave behind your sin.
I will pardon. I will love. My anger melt away.
Return to me, O Sinner. Let new life begin.
I will cleanse you. You will sing. Your guilt all washed away.
Chorus
You have sinned. You have fallen.
O, confess it. Receive my grace.
Verse 2:
Return to me, O Sinner. Escape the trap you’re in.
I will free you. I will heal. Your tears I’ll wipe away.
Return to me, O Sinner. Walk in my ways again. I will lead you. You will sing. Your heart won’t go astray.
©2025 Mike Neifert
I owned a blue beret for about 24 hours. I returned it because it was not my style. Find out why I owned it and what I gleaned from my temporary possession of this bit of French fashion.
I love hot salsas and ask for them when I'm out at Mexican restaurants. I've rarely been disappointed. I enjoyed some good heat while out with friends a while back. The waiter warned me as he put the sauces on the table. "Be careful!" Jesus used the same words of warning on multiple occasions. "Watch out or you'll fall!"
My yard doesn't always look great, but it did the other day and a couple of neighbors noticed. Their "Atta, boy!" made me want to do better in the future.
The writer of Psalm 136 is a bit of a broken record. Twenty-six times he repeats the same exact phrase: His love endures forever. The "his" is God, of course. Perhaps this psalmist knew his readers or hearers might forget God's love in the midst of troubling times and so he drives the truth deep into their souls. Do you need to hear this truth?
I've been preaching from the Psalms over the past few weeks and sharing songs inspired by several of these Hebrew poems. When it came time to focus on Psalm 23, I decided to write a song which would reflect the joy and refreshment David wanted his hearers to experience as they heard his comforting psalm. I pray The Lord Is My Shepherd will bring your into God's loving and caring presence.
The Lord is My Shepherd
Verse 1:
The Lord is my shepherd; I lack nothing good.
I lie in green pastures; I drink from the brook.
My soul is refreshed, oh! My soul is refreshed, oh!
My soul is refreshed!
Verse 2:
The Lord is my shepherd; I follow his lead.
In darkest of valleys; I’ve nothing to dread.
My soul is refreshed, oh! My soul is refreshed, oh!
My soul is refreshed!
Verse 3:The Lord is my shepherd; His love follows me.
Each day in his presence; His goodness I see.
My soul is refreshed, oh! My soul is refreshed, oh!
My soul is refreshed!
Verse 4:
The Lord is my shepherd; My cup overflows.
Forever and ever; I’ll dwell in his home.
My soul will rejoice, oh! My soul will rejoice, oh!
My soul will rejoice!
©2025 Mike Neifert (Inspired by Psalm 23)
Wars abound. You've noticed, right? And you're praying? For whom and for what are you petitioning God? Mark Twain's essay, The War Prayer, and Joshua's encounter with the head of God's heavenly army might challenge you to pray differently.
When I was young, I got "saved" over and over again. I could always think of something I'd done which I was sure would send me to hell. I learned later what salvation really is and found joy in accepting it and living for Jesus.
Athletes I coach made it to the State meet. Others did not. There were smiles and tears aplenty throughout the qualifying meet. The same was true at the State championship. The same is true in the church. There are events which bring rejoicing and those which induce sobbing. God will help us to help each other in both.
Do you find joy in hearing how well others are doing? Are you blessed when your leadership or your words encourage another? Why not live a life of giving happiness to others as often as you can with God's help!
What words best describe God? David, the author of Psalm 86 which inspired the song I share today, and many others would shout their answer, "Gracious!" God is gracious, slow to anger, full of love. Gracious God, which I wrote earlier this year, gives God glory for his compassion and mercy. I trust you will grow in your love for him as you listen.
Gracious God
You are a gracious God, slow to anger, full of love.
Your faithfulness endures forever (and ever).
Your heart is merciful; your strength beyond compare.
Your people rightly fear your name.
Chorus:
Hear our prayers, Lord! Teach us your ways!
Guard our steps for all of our days!
And we will praise your name forever
With undivided hearts.
Verse 2:
You are a good God, comforting the poor and needy.
In their distress they call to you (you answer).
Your deeds are marvelous; providing help and granting mercy.
Your people rightly trust in you.
Verse 3:
You, God, deliver us, from every enemy.
No foe can stand against; they all fall down before you.
Your servants all rejoice; they shout your victory!
Your people rightly worship you.
©2025 Mike Neifert (Inspired by Psalm 86)
Can an AI-generated prayer become a real prayer? What is it that makes worship true worship? It's more than the words, whatever their source which makes for "in the Spirit" worship and "in truth" prayer.
Look up! Do you see God's hand in what's above you? The Psalmist did. Perhaps if you paused, you'd observe God's greatness as well.
I'm old enough now to be grumpy. Not that I always am. But I was on the day after Easter. God help, me.
A new-to-me custom, hand-crafted ukulele from Hawaii, gifted to me by my cousin, stirred up joy and a new worship song. "We Need Joy" is a bouncy, bubbly request for joy and two other gifts God is more than happy to grant to his children when they ask.
We Need Joy
Verse 1:
We need joy, joy, joy, joy, joy in your Spirit!
We need joy, joy, joy, joy,
the fullness of your joy!
We need joy, joy, joy, joy, joy in your Spirit;
For the joy of the Lord is our strength!
Bridge 1:
Joy to the world, the Lord is come;
Let earth receive her King!
Verse 2:
We need love, love, love, love, love in your Spirit!
We need love, love, love, love,
the fullness of your love!
We need love, love, love, love, love in your Spirit;
For the love of the Lord will endure!
Bridge 2:
O love of God, how rich and pure;
How measureless and strong!
Verse 3:
We need peace, peace, peace, peace, peace in your Spirit!
We need peace, peace, peace, peace,
the fullness of your peace!
We need peace, peace, peace, peace, peace in your Spirit;
For the peace of the Lord is our shield!
Bridge 3:
Whatever our lot, you have taught us to say,
“It is well; it is well with our soul!”
©2025 Mike Neifert
I was thirsty the other day so I went to grab refreshment from the fridge at the church. I found more than sparkling water when I walked into the kitchen. A woman at a well also found more than she was seeking when she arrived at the well near her Samaritan village. Her thirst was satisfied by a someone rather than by a something.
My friend dropped a "Thank God" as we were driving the other day. It happened to be on a Friday, but I thought, "It doesn't matter what day it is. Thank God!"
There are things which, if you find them missing, are worth going back for. A missing laptop got me to thinking about how important it is to "go back for" one thing much more important than a tool.
Jesus, Fill My Heart is a song based on a prayer written by Ryan Skoog in the book, Lead with Prayer. It's a petition asking for God's good gifts of love and peace and wisdom among other things. I got permission from Mr. Skoog to adapt his words and put them to music and this is what came out. My prayer is that each of you will find this prayer useful in connecting with God. (The original prayer is on page 62 of the hardcover edition of Lead with Prayer.)
Jesus, Fill My Heart (A Prayer)
Verse:
Jesus, fill my heart with Your love; fill my soul with Your peace; fill my mind with wisdom from above.
Jesus, fill my ears with Your voice; fill my mouth with Your words; fill my eyes with Your compassion.
Chorus:
May my hands be ever serving You.
May my knees bow in surrender, too.
May my feet walk in obedience to You.
Bridge:
Empower me – heart, soul, mind, andstrength – to live for Your glory, Lord.Empower me – heart, soul, mind, andstrength – to live for You, my Friend.
©2025 Mike Neifert
Signing day for a high school athlete is a big deal! Family and friends and coaches are on hand. Everyone is full of joy! Same thing happens in heaven when someone says yes to Jesus.
Some people are always filled with joy. Some are never ever joyful. I've learned a little from God about dealing with the later over the years. I'm still seeking his guidance, but this is what I've got so far. (If you're listening to this, I doubt you're one of my joy-missers, but I bet you know one or two.)
I've been getting ads all over the place for apps which proport to provide AI (artificial intelligence) help in preparing sermons. They promise to cut writing time in half. I can see both sides of this issue, but come down on one side.
For hundreds of years, believers have recited the prayer we call the Lord's Prayer. They've done so because this prayer orients them over and over to what Jesus wants and wills. Recently, the Bible Project podcast put out five episodes on the Lord's Prayer and invited people to submit musical renditions of the famous petition to get it into people's hearts. I was a little late for adding my song to their collection, but I'm still thankful for the encouragement to not only pray the prayer, but also to commit it to memory through melody. I call my song, Prayer and Doxology (Our Father). God bless as you listen.
(Lord's Prayer resource page and sing the prayer page)
What will life be like 100 years from now? I recently read an article about predictions made in 1925 about the year we're living in. (It's currently 2025.) Flying cars made the list along with a few other things. I don't know all that will be in 100 years, but I know a couple of things. I'm sure of them.
(Akron Beacon Journal article)
I've been trying out some new prayer practices as I slowly make my way through, Lead with Prayer, a book I got last year as a gift. It has been a gift to read new ideas of how to make my life with God more alive. I hope the practice of praying one-sentence prayers, which I am learning, will be helpful to you.
Psalm 46 says, "Be still, and know that I am God..."
In the Friends church, we try to take this command seriously. Doing so is part of our heritage, our history. It's also part of our present to an extent.
Do you need quiet, still time with God?
Do you know people who are struggling with life’s troubles?
Maybe they’re dealing with a spouse who’s declining mentally or grieving a death of a close friend. Maybe a weird physical symptom has arisen and they’re worried or their job is stressing them almost to the breaking point.
Or maybe you’re the one suffering. You’re facing a situation that is stretching the limits of your patience…..with God.
David, the writer of dozens of psalms, seemed to be in that sort of place when he penned the words of Psalm 13. Those words inspired the song I share today, Look on Me (And Answer). My prayer is that it will encourage those who are barely hanging onto their faith, encourage them (you) to wait and see God's answer.
Look on Me, Lord (And Answer)
Verse:
How long, Lord, will you forget my name?
How long, Lord, will you hide your face from me?
How long, Lord, must I wrestle with my thoughts?
How long, Lord, will my enemies defeat me?Chorus 1:
Look on me, Lord, and answer my cry! Give light to my eyes, Lord, don’t let me die!
Look on me, Lord, give ear as I call! Don’t let my enemies laugh as I fall. How long?
Chorus 2:
I trust in you, Lord, your unfailing love! My heart will beat stronger with joy from above!
I sing to you, Lord, with unending praise! Your good-ness enduring for all of my days. How long?
©2025 Mike Neifert (Based on Psalm 13)
There's this story in Luke where Jesus miraculously knows what's about to happen. It's included in the account of Jesus' life, I believe, to build our faith in Jesus, God's Son, who knows what's coming and will be with us.
Two storms in less than a week and I'm thinking about the covering properties of snow. All the ugly is hidden. God talks about his power to forgive using snow as a mental picture of his work.
Just before Christmas (2024), I was reading John 1. What John wrote of God's Son coming into the world, inspired a song about Light shining the darkness and the Word becoming flesh so he could dwell among us. I hope you enjoy my thoughts on John 1 and the "live" recording of the song, "God Is With Us (Immanuel)".
God is With Us (Immanuel)
Verse 1:
The heavens are shouting, the gift of the Son!
The True Light that gives light to everyone!
The Light is the Life by which death is undone!
The curse is now ended, rejoice in the Son!
Chorus 1:
God is with us! Immanuel!
God is with us! The Light has come!
God is with us! Immanuel!
Light shines in darkness and death is undone!
Light shines in darkness; the Light is the Son!
Verse 2:
The Word became flesh and he dwelt among us!
Taking our form, he was made of the dust!
He gave up his Life so that God who is just
Could give life eternal to all who would trust!
Chorus 2:
God is with us! Immanuel!
God is with us! The Word has come!
God is with us! Immanuel!
The Word speaks in power; the victory’s won!
Death is defeated! Our life’s with the Son!
Bridge:
True Light of true light; the Light of the world!
Jesus, Messiah; God’s glory unfurled!
©2024 Mike Neifert
The beginning of a new anything is a great time to reflect on the past and get going on what's ahead. It's true in sports and in life and in faith.
I've seen two holiday films - "The Best Christmas Pageant Ever" and "Red One" - recently. The messages of the two are very different. "Red One" suggests a Christmas which can be lost. The "pageant" film pointed to the redemption which can come to even the worst of lost ones when they encounter Jesus.
Jesus humbled himself and became a man. (A baby first, of course!) With the celebration of his arrival on earth in human likeness, I thought I'd share (again) a couple of Christmas songs I wrote a year or two or three ago. My hope is that they will encourage worship!
How would you finish this sentence?
"You can't have Christmas without..."
I asked some middle schoolers to fill in this blank and got all kinds of answers. A few got the right answer. Did you?
Inspired by Tom Whitwell - I'll tell you about him - I offer you a list of things - some silly and some not - I learned this year. Since I didn't take notes throughout the year, some of these things might have been learned in another year. I just know I learned them fairly recently.
What do you as a believer need to do in order to gain wisdom? What can you do to double check what you want against what God wants?
What are you most thankful for today? I posed this question to a cafeteria full of middle school students the other day. How would you answer? See how your response compares with theirs.
"In the stars his handiwork I see..."
Recent news about Voyager 1 set me to thinking about the greatness of our God and the vastness of what he's made and what he sustains.
Some days at the church there's a bunch of foot traffic - people sneaking in and sneaking out to do what God's given them to day. Today was one such day and all the activity got me to thinking about God's goodness in creating the church.
What a local barista said after I'd ordered in the drive-thru got me to thinking about what's most on point for me as a believer.
I've noticed a trend on social media which bothers me. People who love Jesus are misusing God's word to further their political agenda or demean the candidate they dislike. This bothers me greatly and I'll tell you why.
If you're looking for a direct political statement for or against a certain candidate during this (2024) election cycle, this is not the episode for you. If you want to gain a bit of godly perspective, perhaps this will be 4:00 well spent.
Wearing a sling right now is allowing my shoulder to heal after surgery. It's like trusting God's work to restore peace with him.
What do you do when your Bible reading time gets a bit chaotic? Do you have a plan for overcoming distractions?
What stuns you in the creation you see around you? What of what you can see stirs up praise? In what circumstances do you experience God's joy in what he has made?
In many cultures, there are ways to welcome a dignitary which include creating an archway for the VIP to enter through. Perhaps that's what the Psalmist is speaking of when, in Psalm 24, he calls upon the gates to open so the King of Glory may come in.
Who Is This King of Glory (Psalm 24)
Verse 1Lift up your heads, you gates;
be lifted up, you ancient doors,
that the King of glory may come in.
Who is this King of glory?
The Lord strong and mighty,
the Lord mighty in battle.
Lift up your heads, you gates;
lift them up, you ancient doors,
that the King of glory may come in.
Who is this King of glory?
The Lord Almighty—
he is the King of glory.
©2015 PocketNeif Music
Jesus tells a second parable in Luke 18. This one is about a prideful man and a penitent man who pray. One man receives what he needs. The other gets nothing.
I recently read a parable about persistent prayer in Luke 18. I think it will encourage you in your walk with Jesus.
Like a good pair of glasses which help you see better, seeing God can help you experience life with clearer vision, with focus and perspective.
Heroes are people who get things right. But do they get things right all the time? There's only one who is the perfect hero.
I know a few words in Spanish, but I do not understand it. When I found out I might have a kid on my team who knew no English, I was excited. Maybe I'd finally learn a bit of a new language. Then I heard a testimony of a man who didn't understand the Bible...and then he did. Listen and learn what changed so he could grasp what he was reading.
What if the west coast broke off of North America and fell into the sea? Would God still be your refuge? Psalm 46 begins with words of hope for those facing such terrifying circumstances. Though the Earth Give Way is my musical interpretation of the psalmist's words of hope. My hope is the music I've penned will encourage you in whatever difficult situations you find yourself.
I fell last week while running in the dark. The street tripped me up. This event led to some thinking about causing others to stumble.
While visiting a church in Hawaii recently, I gained perspective on troubles which arise during ministry. Perhaps you'll be encouraged as you learn about faith vitamins as well.
A simple question asked by a hiker on a steep and slippery trail led to thoughts about the struggles we face in life as we follow Christ.
I have a file in a cabinet in my office labeled, Encouragement. I pulled it out today and read some of what I'd squirreled away. I was...encouraging.
The heavens above Kansas (and everywhere else, I suppose) declare God's glory. Thinking on God's might and beauty displayed in the giant blue dome over my state, I wrote this song of praise to God as a thank offering for what I see of him every time I step outside.
Kansas Skies Shout
Verse 1:
Storm clouds racing ‘bove golden grain
Winds start blowing and then comes rain
Thunder rolling, lightning flashing
God’s great might displayed again
Chorus:
For the glory of their Maker
Kansas skies shout praise to him
Verse 2:
Night is coming, the heav’ns turn
Bright reds, yellows, and oranges burn
Sunlight fading, shadows growing
God’s great beauty all eyes discern
Verse 3:
Stars start singing their age-old song
Ten thousand voices sound all night long
Rising, falling, e’er recalling
God’s great glory from dusk till dawn
© 2024 Mike Neifert
Do you like organ music? Some do. Some don't. Whether you do or not, you might miss out on something special if you write off all organ music without giving it a listen. In the same way, you might miss out on something God has to say if you click away from a message just because you don't like the delivery.
My wife and I and some of her friends climbed a bit in the arid climes of Scottsdale, Arizona, recently. Hiking in the desert requires water - lots of it! Some of our crew didn't bring enough. We shared. Afterward, I had a few thoughts about how the church is at its best when believers bear each other's burdens.
How long can a typo in a church bulletin go undetected? How long will you hang on to your sin habits while Jesus offers freedom? If you don't repaint - oops! repent - you'll never know how good God's ways can be.
We recognize the style of certain architects if we're paying attention. My wife and I can spot a Frank Lloyd Wright creation from a mile away. Do you see God in what he's made?
God is worthy of honor and praise. Glory is due his name. I hope the song based on Psalm 66's first verses which I present today will cause you to make God's praise glorious.
Make His Praise Glorious (Psalm 66)
Intro/Bridge:
Make His praise glorious! Make His praise glorious!
Make His praise glorious, all the earth.
Verse 1:
Shout for joy to your God, all the earth!
Sing the glory of His name; make His praise glorious.
Say to your God, “How awesome are Your deeds!”
Say to your God, “How great is Your power!”
Your enemy cringes before You, our great God!
Verse 2:
Lord, of all the earth, we bow down before You;
Your people sing, sing praise to You,
Your people shout, shout out their praises.
Come now and see what our God has done!
His awesome deeds for mankind! His mighty deeds!
Verse 3:
He rules forever by His mighty hand!
He watches peoples, His eyes see every land.
Honor your King, every tribe and nation!
Let the earth resound with praises, all ye peoples!
Ev’ry knee will bow down to You, our great God!
Ending:
We shout Your praise. We sing Your glory.
We shout Your praise. We sing Your glory.
We shout Your praise. We sing Your glory, our great God!
© 2015 PocketNeif Music
What do you do while waiting and watching for Jesus' return? That question came up recently. I found answers in Jesus' words to his disciples in Luke 12.
Keeping the main thing the main thing in our life with Jesus can be difficult. We tend to think what we do is more important than who (or whose) we are.
I got to hand out special awards to two of my cross country runners. The story of how I got the plaques in hand before the awards night is pretty cool. It reminds me of the way God answers prayer.
Can "rivals" get along? Be respectful? Compete without ill-will? I certainly hope they can do so when they're part of the kingdom of God.
Psalm 29 inspired the song I share today. It speaks of the greatness of God's voice and, if heard with a willing heart, inspires obedience.
The Voice of the Lord (Psalm 29)
Verse 1:
The voice of the Lord shouts over the waters;
The voice of the Lord thunders like the sea.
The voice of the Lord breaks mighty cedars;
The voice of the Lord lays bare each tree.
Chorus:
Glory, glory, glory, glory, to the Lord, our God on high!
Verse 2:
The voice of the Lord, it strikes like lightning;
The voice of the Lord flashes cross the sky.
The voice of the Lord brings death to the desert;
The voice of the Lord leaves the land bone-dry.
Verse 3:
The voice of the Lord rules over nations;
The voice of the Lord brings kingdoms low.
The voice of the Lord shakes every mountain;
The voice of the Lord casts strong men down.
Verse 4:
The voice of the Lord will be heard forever;
The voice of the Lord will never cease.
The voice of the Lord will bless his people;
The voice of the Lord will bring them peace.
Ending:
Glory, glory, to our God on high!
Glory, glory, to our God on high!
© 2022 Mike Neifert (Inspired by Psalm 29)
I check the hourly forecast for the coming day every night before heading to bed. I want to know what I'll likely face on my morning run. Sometimes, I forget what I've read and am not prepared. God's word calls on us to be ready for what's to come. He gives us predictions of what's ahead. Will we heed his warnings?
The history behind the setting of the date of Easter each year is a bit sketchy. Learn more about what happened in 325AD and hear what God's word says about the ugly stuff behind the decision made by the "church" at that time.
Paul Johnson is running across the United States right now. He's knocking out 60-65 mile days. I got to "run" with him one day. I've been following his progress since then. I've learned a few things about how others feel about his run. Some have been less than happy with the decisions Paul has made. He keeps moving forward.
The song I share in this episode is an expression of my gratitude to God for sending his Son to sent me free. I am filled with joy when I think of the freedom I have in Christ. My hope is you will give thanks for freedom in Jesus as you listen.
For Freedom
Intro-Bridge:
Freedom, freedom, there is freedom,
Freedom in Christ.
Verse 1:
Jesus set prisoners free.
Abolished slavery.
Ended our captivity.
To sin and death and misery.
He proclaims good news to you.
Proclaims good news to me.
We will live eternally
In freedom.
Chorus 1:
It’s for freedom that Christ has set us free.
It’s for freedom that Christ has set us free.
It’s for freedom that Christ has set us free.
Set us free.
Verse 2:
Jesus hung upon the tree.
Bled and died in agony
Through his Spirit set us free.
From sin and death and misery.
He proclaims good news to you.
Proclaims good news to me.
We will live eternally
In freedom.
Chorus 2:
If the Son sets you free, you are free indeed.
If the Son sets you free, you are free indeed.
If the Son sets you free, you are free indeed.
Free indeed.
Tag:
We are free indeed. We are free indeed.
We are free indeed. We are free.
© 2024 PocketNeif Music
We are tested each day in much the same way Adam and Eve were by the serpent in the Garden. We can choose our own way or God's. Obedience to our Maker brings life. Disobedience results in death.
I love hiking and making trails easier to manage for others. I think God enjoys clearing paths for his people, too.
We have differing tastes in all kinds of things - coffee, TV shows, football teams, music. What happens when we're adamant about making our preferred tastes the only acceptable ones?
It's Leap Day! Time for some thoughts on leaping for joy inspired by a particular story in Acts 3.
The story behind the praise song I'm sharing today is kind of sketchy. Not at all spiritual. Still, the words, inspired by Isaiah 40:28-31 are encouraging to those who are weak or weary.
Do You Know?
Verse 1:
Do you know? Have you heard?
The everlasting God does not grow weary
Do you know? Have you heard?
The Creator of the ends of the earth will not grow tired.
He gives strength, strength to the weary
And increases the power of the weak
When you’re tired, When you stumble and fall
Put your hope in the Lord God Almighty
Verse 2:
Do you know? Have you heard?
The everlasting God does not grow weary
Do you know? Have you heard?
The Creator of the ends of the earth will not grow tired.
He’ll renew, he’ll renew your strength
You will soar like an eagle over the mountains
You will run, you will run and not grow tired
You will walk through the earth and not be faint
2013 Mike Neifert
Pastors need care. It's true. Could God use you to bless your pastor in some way? It's a topic I felt need to be addressed. Hope you're challenged to act in the power of the Spirit on behalf of the person who brings you God's word and blesses you by service.
Who will win the Super Bowl? How many points will the Chiefs' Travis Kelce score? Will Taylor make it to the big game? I don't know the answer to any of these things. (I'm recording four days before the biggest of the NFL's games takes place.)
Will Jesus return? That I'm much more sure of.
UPDATE: I may have misunderstood a few of Kelce's stats.
How you treat the poor matters to God. There are some in the rent-to-own and payday loan arena who need this info. Sparked by an advertising postcard, I talk frankly with them (and myself) about treating those in need in a godly way.
I was once a slave to sin. I've been set free by Jesus. This song speaks of both truths. My prayer is that you will find the freedom from slavery to sin I have found.
Once a Slave
Verse 1:
I once was a slave to sin, obedient unto flesh.
I lived for myself, not for my God.
The things I did back then, brought only guilt and shame.
There was no life; there was no gain.
Bridge 1:
I was enslaved to the life of flesh.
My heart was bound in chains of sinfulness.
Dead in my sin, deserving of God’s wrath;
I needed Christ to set me free.
Verse 2:
All thanks be unto God, I am no longer bound.
I’ve been set free through faith in Christ.
All glory unto Him, the Savior of the world,
Who broke sin’s chains; Who made me new.
Bridge 2:
I count myself dead to the life of flesh.
I don’t let sin reign in my body now.
Alive in Christ, my ever-living Lord,
Who lives in me; He lives in me.
Verse 3:
I live not under law, but under God’s own grace
My righteousness is from the Lord
Not earned by what I’ve done, not by the good I know
But won by Christ, upon that tree.
Verse 4:
I live now as a slave, but not unto my flesh
I am obedient unto my Lord
The wages of my sin, they were forever death;
But the gift of God, eternal life.
© 2023 PocketNeif Music
Have you noticed the increase in things locked up in stores? It's due to a rise in theft. The managers of Wal-Marts and Targets are trying to protect their bottom line. What does this say about our hearts as a people?
I have an unusual way of responding when someone says, "Have a great day!" I borrowed (stole) it from a friend a few years back. What I say has implications for what I expect from each new day.
According to the writers of the Old Testament, our God is the great King above all gods. He is the Maker of all things, seen and unseen. Thinking on this recently and turning to Psalm 95 for inspiration, I wrote Come, Let Us Sing for Joy, to express my praise to the Ruler of all things. I pray you will be moved to worship as you listen.
Come, Let Us Sing for Joy
(Based on Psalm 95)
Verse 1:
Come, let us sing for joy to the Lord;
let us shout aloud to the Rock of our salvation.
Let us come before him with thanksgiving
and extol him with our song.
For the Lord is the great God, the great King above allgods.
Verse 2:
The highest heavens are his handiwork;
the stars, the sun, the moon.
In his hands are the mighty seas,
the breakers that crash and foam.
For the Lord is the great God,
the great King above all gods.
Bridge:
Holy, holy, holy, holy, holy, holy, holy is the Lord!
Holy, holy, holy, holy, holy, holy, holy is our King!
Verse 3:
Come, let us bow down in worship,
let us kneel before the Lord.
For he is our Maker and we are his people,
the flock under his care.
For the Lord is the great God,
the great King above all gods.
Verse 4:
The earth is his, for he made it;
with a word he formed dry land.
In his hands are the mountain peaks,
every high and lofty hill.
For the Lord is the great God,
the great King above all gods.
Repeat Bridge
Verse 5:
Come now, exalt him, the great King above all kings;
Hallelujah! The Lord reigns!
Let us all proclaim the Ruler’s holy name,
his power, his glorious might.
For the Lord is the great God,
the great King above all gods.
Verse 6:
The trees of the forest, the grass of the fields;
with one voice, they shout his praise.
In his hands are all living things,
every creature he’s given breath.
For the Lord is the great God,
the great King above all gods.
Ending:
Holy, holy, holy, holy, holy, holy, holy is the Lord!
Holy, holy, holy, holy, holy, holy, holy is our King!
Holy, holy, holy, holy, holy, holy, holy is our God!
Holy, holy, holy, holy, holy, holy, holy is our King!
Holy, holy, holy, holy, holy, holy, holy.
Holy, holy, holy, holy, holy, holy, holy.
© 2023 PocketNeif Music
I ran a marathon a little over a month ago. I got through the first miles and the last with a little help from "friends" - strangers, really. Serving God in the kingdom requires a little help from friends as well.
As I flew cross country to attend my grandma's funeral, God did a work in my heart as I read and considered 1 John 4:16-18. Finding comfort in John's inspired words, I penned "You Gave Your Life to Me" as the 737 I was on cruised at 35,000 feet. I hope what I say and sing will be an encouragement to you.
You Gave Your Life to Me
Salvation belongs to you, my God.
You’ve poured out your grace on me.
Lost and alone and dead in my sin,
Till you gave your life to me.
© 2004 PocketNeif Music
What are you thankful to God for? For whom are your grateful? These are among the questions we ought to ask often. Giving thanks causes our faith to grow and encourages us when life is rough.
Could changing your word usage in a small way make a difference in how you feel about what's on tap each day? This episode challenges each listener to make a subtle shift in vocabulary to bring more joy into their lives.
We're in this together, believers. God is with us and we are with each other. We Cry Out is a worship song for the church. It encourages faith-filled pleas for help from the body of Christ as they sing and pray as one. I trust the song will bless you as you listen.
We Cry Out
Verse 1: We are your children, O, God. Faltering, failing every day.Wholly trusting in your grace. We turn from our wicked ways.
Chorus 1: We bend our knees!Hear our prayer! Forgive our sin! We cry out to you!
Verse 2: We are your children, O, God. Broken and battered by the world.Wholly trusting in your pow’r To heal our wounds and make us whole.
Chorus 2: We raise our hands!Hear our praise!You’ve healed our hearts!We cry out to you!
Verse 3: We are your children, O, God.
Waiting, watching, and wond’ring.
Wholly trusting that in time
You’ll come and set your people free!
Chorus 3:
We lift our voice!
Hear our plea!
Come and rescue!
We cry out to you!
©2014 PocketNeif Music
My watch (it's semi-smart) keeps me on track during the day and when I'm working out. The Holy Spirit and the Bible do the same in much more important ways.
How many times would you call back if you kept being put on hold? Would you remain on hold for 10 minutes? 20? After recently becoming a bit frustrated with a certain pizza chain's phone system, I thought about the difference between my experience with them and my relationship with God, specifically my relationship with him in the area of prayer.
Marriage is on my mind since our youngest is tying the knot. For those who are married or thinking about getting married, I'm sharing some of what God's word says to you.
This world is not my home. I'm a foreigner here. I'm looking forward to a new heavens and a new earth at the resurrection. This song celebrates and anticipates eternity with Jesus. Can't wait!
Last time we talked about a couple of Sabbath issues - what we can do for ourselves on this holy day and not judging others for what God allows them to do. This time, we're going to talk about what we can do for others in the same timeframe.
What is right and what is wrong to do on Sunday? Christians disagree on this matter and, sometimes, get all judgey about it. I have a few thoughts which may help you to avoid condemning the innocent.
Most people's feet are kind of funny looking. Still, God's word says that these appendages can be beautiful. Reflecting on the words of Isaiah 52 about beautiful feet, I wrote a song which is both worship of God and prayer for usefulness in his kingdom.
What can you do with a coin? All sorts of things including flipping it to make a decision. Are all the things you could do with a coin good? Are they all bad? Think on this and other things with me.
Do you get interrupted by robocalls? It seems like more than half the calls which come to my office are such distractions. Rather than let them keep me from my work, I hang up and get back on task. While following Jesus, sometimes enemies seek to derail our work for God. What do we do?
With a presidential election around the corner, I invite believers to consider how they act and react to the political happenings each day brings, inviting God to guide actions and reactions.
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I wrote the song, Holy, in 2013 in response to reading two passage which present God's holiness in awesome ways - Isaiah 6 and Revelation 4. Combining both passages, I hope, will inspire all who hear to worship the Lord Almighty who is holy.
Holy
Verse 1:
Holy, holy, holy, is the LORD Almighty
Holy, holy, holy, the whole earth is full of his glory.
Chorus:
Holy is our Lord.
Holy is our King.
Holy is our God.
Master of everything.
Verse 2:
Holy, holy, holy, is the LORD God Almighty
Holy, holy, holy, who was, and is, and is to come.
© 2013 PocketNeif Music
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You know God calls you to love your neighbor. Do you notice little ways you can do as he commands?
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I've been training for my fifth marathon. Sometimes I feel like there's no way I can keep going. I do my workouts day after day anyway. I know I will never get to the end of a 26.2-mile race unless I keep running. The same is true in our walk with Jesus. We have to keep going even when we feel like a failure.
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When hardly anyone was hearing from God, Samuel was called upon to be God's man. While reading the story from 1 Samuel 3 almost ten years ago, I was inspired to write a prayer song based on the simple phrase Eli gave young Samuel to say when he realized God was addressing his protégé. I hope the song will lead you to listen to God's word to you.
Speak, Lord
Verse 1:
Speak, Lord, for your servant’s listening.
At break of day, in my quiet place.
Come, speak to my heart, to my soul.
Verse 2:
Speak, Lord, for your servant’s listening.
Under midday sun, when I cannot rest.
Come, speak to my heart, to my soul.
Chorus:
Speak your words of mercy. Speak your words of woe.
Speak your words of truth, Lord. The things I need to know.
Oh, Speak. Lord, speak.
Verse 3:
Speak, Lord, for your servant’s listening.
In the cool of ev’ning, after work is done
Come, speak to my heart, to my soul.
Verse 4:
Speak, Lord, for your servant’s listening.
Through the darkest night, when my mind is troubled.
Come, speak to my heart, to my soul.
Ending:
Speak, Lord, for your servant’s listening.
© 2013 PocketNeif Music
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Sometimes when God speaks, we miss what he says or we choose to ignore his commands. What do we do when we realize we're out of alignment with him? That's what I talk about in this episode.
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What's in that red Solo cup? You know what everyone suspects. What's in a person? You judge that based on what you see. What's in you? Others are making assumptions about you too.
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A few weeks back I preached from Luke 2, the Christmas story. I had a bit of "Christmas in July" fun with it as I did so. Recognizing the importance of Jesus' arrival on the scene, I talked about the privilege we have as believers to become more than we would be without the birth of God's Son.
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God is my rock! How many times does David say that in his songs of praise? Lots of times, it turns out. The first time is in Psalm 18, the psalm upon which "You Are My Rock" is based. May God be your rock and your salvation! May you praise his name for his rescue and deliverance.
You Are My Rock (Psalm 18)
Verse 1 You are my rock. You are my fortress. You are my strength from day to day You are my shield and my salvation. You are my refuge and so I say…
Chorus I love you, Lord. I praise your name. You save me from my enemies! I cry to you, for you are mighty. You rescue me. You give the victory.
Verse 2 Your ways are perfect. Your word is flawless. You guide my steps both night and day. You make my feet, so sure, so steady. You hold me up and so I say…
Verse 3 You are my God. There is no other. I trust in you from day to day. You are my Lord. You are deliverer. You are my stronghold and so I say…
Verse 4
You help the humble. You lift the lowly.
You are their guardian both night and day.
You crush the haughty, the proud in spirit.
You bring them down and so I say…
© 2023 PocketNeif Music
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I used to wear plain socks all the time. No more! Give me variety and fun over utility every time! That's not to say my socks always look exciting. Sometimes, the unusual stuff is hidden in my shoes. Believers look ordinary enough. Are they as normal as they appear? Perhaps not. Listen in as I talk about what's less than usual in a believer's life.
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Who you know matters when it comes to access. On a recent visit to Vegas, my wife and I had free access to lots of stuff which would normally have cost an arm and a leg. In this episode, I'll tell you about that and talk about something Jesus has granted us access to. (What Jesus gives is better than all the free stuff in Vegas.)
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Ever run into someone you know in a place far, far from home? It's happened to me more than once. On a recent road trip, just such an unexpected encounter happened. Reflecting on this "chance" meeting reminded me that God is at work all around me. I need to pay attention to what he's doing and notice who he puts in my pat.
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I love reading the praises of God's people from thousands of years ago. It reminds me that God has been faithful to generations upon generations. He is a God who is worthy of worship! The song I share today is based on the words Isaiah used in Isaiah 25 to honor the God he had found to be trustworthy. My prayer is you will grow in confidence as you listen and take the words of this prophet to heart.
O God, My God (Isaiah 25)
Verse:
O God, my God; I will exalt your name
For in your perfect faithfulness you’ve done good things.
O God, my God; I will exalt your name
For in your perfect faithfulness you have done good things.
Bridge 1:
You are a refuge for my soul when I’m distressed;
A shelter from the storm, in you I find my rest.
Bridge 2:
You are a shade tree for my soul in summer’s heat;
A respite from the sun, in you I find retreat.
Bridge 3:
You are a comfort when hot tears roll down my face;
A haven from all shame, in you I’m not disgraced.
©2023 PocketNeif Music
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My friend Tom's favorite verse, Philippians 2:14, challenges me. It'll challenge you too. Listen to see what implications there are for your life as a believer in Jesus.
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I'm guessing you've never seen Satan. I haven't. Even so, we both know his voice. We know it because he tempts us and lies to us and accuses us often. In Genesis 3, in mankind's first encounter with the Enemy, we learn of one of his go-to schemes as we listen in on his conversation with Eve.
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Psalm 86, upon which the lyrics of my song, Forgiving and Good, is based, speaks of God's abounding love. I hope this piece I wrote for ukulele in praise of God's grace and goodness will stir up joy in your heart.
Forgiving and Good (Psalm 86)
Verse 1:
You, Lord, are forgiving and good,
Abounding in love to all who call on your name.
Verse 2:
You, Lord, are a great and marv’lous God,
Guarding in love all who call on your name.
Chorus 1:
Hear me, I’m poor and needy.
Hear me, I cry for mercy.
Hear me, I trust in you, Lord!
Verse 3:You, Lord, are a strong, deliv’ring God,
Rescuing in love all who call on your name.
Chorus 2:Hear me, my voice is lifted.Hear me, I give you glory.Hear me, I love you, my Lord!
© 2023 PocketNeif Music (Mike Neifert)
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I was recently invited to test Google's artificial intelligence app, Bard. I played around with it, prompting it to produce a podcast episode script for me. Some of what you'll hear in this edition of the PocketNeif Podcast was Bard-produced. The rest is me thinking about the experience.
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In this episode, I ponder the lessons I learned in my first ever bike race. Not all went well, but I discovered something along the way.
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In Galatians 5:24-25, Paul says believers, because they belong to Christ, have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires and have, instead, chosen to walk in step with the Spirit. "Since We Belong to Christ" is a song of prayer, asking God to help us in doing as Paul suggests, crucifying our sinful nature and keeping in step with God.
Since We Belong to Christ
Verse 1:Since we belong to Christ we have crucified the flesh
with its passions and its desires.
We have put to death the sinful, earthly things
and we’ve learned to walk in God’s ways!
We have set our hearts above where Christ sits now
at the right hand of our God!
Verse 2:Since we belong to Christ we have crucified the flesh
with its passions and its desires.
We have been rescued from the dark and deadly things,
been redeemed by the grace of our God!
We have set our minds on high and holy things,
on the things which lead to life!
Bridge:We will walk by the Spirit. We will step where he steps.
We will heed every whisper of our Lord.
We will live by his leadings. We will go where he goes,
Even unto the ends of the earth!
© 2023 PocketNeif Music
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Do you know God better when you know him in the presence of others who know him? That's the question I explore in this episode. My prayer is you'll find reason to tell others what you know of God and that you'll listen as they say what they know of him.
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Last month, I banned one of the most asked questions in our culture. I tried asking better questions, queries which would help me connect with people on a deeper level. In this episode, I report on how my experiment went and talk about how Jesus inquired more deeply so as to get closer to the men and women he encountered.
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Because Daniel remained faithful despite threats to his life, King Darius of Persia, praised God. Back in 2014, after reading the king's words, I sat down and penned, "You Rescue! You Save!" as a song of worship to God.
You Rescue! You Save!
Verse:
You are the living God. You are forever more.
Your kingdom cannot be destroyed.
Your dominion will never ever end.
Chorus:
You rescue! You save! Your power is shown in all the earth!
You rescue! You save! Your power is shown in all the earth!
You have rescued. You have saved.
Bridge:
When fear and doubt assail me.
When fear and doubt assail me.
When fear and doubt assail me.
I will sing. I will sing.
Ending:
You have rescued. You have saved.
You have rescued. You have saved.
You have rescued. You have saved me.
© 2014 PocketNeif Music
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We don't like to think about why Jesus had to die on the cross because it convicts us. We'd rather him be a good teacher or a do-gooder. But he was a savior. He had to die. Don't take him off the cross. Without the cross there's no hope for any of us.
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Are you ever critical of the way your preacher or a guest speaker is giving forth God's word? I've been judgey more than once or twice. But God confronted me (years ago) and called me to a new way of thinking and listening. I'm more open to what he has for me now when I sit in a pew and a fellow minister begins his message.
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Enough. I'm not good at doing that. I tend to do too much. God promises enough if we trust him. That's the message of this week's episode.
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Every morning the Bible Gateway website (and app) posts a "Verse of the Day" prominently. It's front and center just below the search bar. The seemingly random verse of the day posted on a particular day a while back inspired the song I share with you today. It's based loosely on the first six verses of Psalm 63. Psalm 63:1 was the "Verse of the Day" which got the ball rolling. Praise God! He satisfies our longings!
Satisfy My Longings (Psalm 63)
Verse 1:
O God, my God, earnestly I seek you;
I’m thirsty, so thirsty, in a dry and desert land.
O God, my God. O God, my God.
Chorus:
Come to me! Give to me water to drink!
Fill up my cup, fill my heart to the brink!
Bring to me daily your richest delights!
Let me rest fully in peace every night.
O, God, satisfy my longings.
Verse 2:
O God, my God, earnestly I seek you;
I’m hungry, so hungry, in a famine-stricken land.
O God, my God. O God, my God.
Verse 3:
O God, my God, earnestly I seek you;
I’m restless, so restless, in a never-sleeping land.
O God, my God. O God, my God.
© 2022 PocketNeif Music
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Questions are powerful. They get you inside another person's head. You understand them better after they've answered. Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones, a British pastor, used to ask a probing question when counseling with people in his office. In this episode, we'll hear his question, ponder it, and talk about what your answer may say about your relationship with God.
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WWJD? Back in the 1990s Christians all across the U.S. were wearing bracelets with this acronym on them. They were a reminder to think about what Jesus might do in any given situation. They were an invitation to follow in his steps. But might there be a better question to ask than "What would Jesus do?" My wife and I talked about this a few weeks back. The question she suggested seemed a better one than WWJD? Listen and see if you don't agree.
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What if someone turned "You Are My Sunshine" into a minor-keyed song about avoiding your archnemesis? It happened. I share "You Are My Dark Cloud" in this episode. Hope it makes you smile a few times.
Verse 1:
On Monday night, dear, while I was walking,
I thought I saw you from afar.
I ducked and darted down a dark alley.
And I hid till you had gone.
Chorus:
You are my dark cloud, my only dark cloud.
I feel so gloomy when you are near me.
You've got to know, dear, that I avoid you.
Please don't stay, just go a - way.
Verse 2:
You came and knocked on my door last Tuesday.
I saw your face through the peephole.
I slunk away and snuck out the back door,
And stayed away till you were gone.
Verse 3:
At noon the next day, I went out shopping.
I pulled into the parking lot.
But then I spotted your F-150,
So I turned and drove a - way.
Verse 4:
On Thursday morning, while in the breakroom,
Your face popped up on my smartphone.
I thought I’d blocked you; I guess I’ll have to,
So you can’t call me a - gain.
Verse 5:
It’s Friday evening and I’m exhausted.
I’ve run from you so much this week.
I hope you’ll stay home and watch your TV,
So I can get a good night’s sleep.
2018 Mike Neifert
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Who am I supposed to be? Should I compare myself with others? Those are the questions I consider in this episode which recalls words of encouragement spoken to me over the years and the call of God on my life.
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I ran across a meme which spoke shockingly of what those martyred by Paul did when he entered heaven. They didn't do what you think they might have. In the same way, I ponder how I should act toward those who've wronged me.
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Peter once asked Jesus, “Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me? Up to seven times?” (Matthew 18:21) Jesus' reply must've startled the man. “I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times." (Matthew 18:22) Forgiveness is the duty of every kingdom citizen. In "How Many Times?", a song I wrote after reading this discussion, I remind myself (and others) of that responsibility (and joy) and recall God's repeated forgiveness of my sins.
Verse 1:I find my heart filled up with anger
When my brother, does harm to me
I resist God’s call to pardon
How many times must I forgive?
Verse 2:
How many times must I forgive him
When my brother, does me wrong?
Must I give him God’s full mercy
Seven times or is it more?
Chorus 1:
How many times have I been pardoned?
How many times have I been freed?
So I pass on my God’s mercy
To my brother who’s in need.
Verse 3:
I find my mind clouded with hatred
When my sister, speaks ill of me
I resist God’s call to pardon
How many times must I forgive?
Verse 4:
How many times must I forgive her
When my sister, does me wrong?
I must give her God’s full mercy
Seventy times and even more!
Chorus 2:
How many times have I been pardoned?
How many times have I been freed?
So I pass on my God’s mercy
To my sister who’s in need.
2022 Mike Neifert (Inspired by Matthew 18:21-22)
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Listening to a perfectly in tune band or orchestra is satisfying. Listening to one which is out of tune...ugh! Watching believers who get along is bliss as well. Being in tune with Jesus and each other blesses others.
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I love visiting the clearance aisle at our local grocery story. I find all sorts of good deals on things I might never encounter otherwise. Jesus also "shops" for the discounted, rejected, cast out.
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What do you do when confronted about sin? Do you confess it or go into full-fledged denial? David, Israel's singing monarch, after hearing of his guilt from Nathan, God's prophet, repented and pled for mercy. And God granted his plea. Later on, the king penned Psalm 51, a song which pleads for mercy and grace in every verse. It also pleads for joy and gladness. It was these things which inspired, "I Will Be Clean", the song I share with you today. May you experience joy in your salvation as you listen.
I Will Be Clean
Chorus 1:
Cleanse me and I will be clean;
Wash me, I’ll be whiter than snow.
Cleanse me and I will be clean;
Wash me as white as the snow.
Verse 1:
Have mercy on me, O God, according to your unfailing love;
Have mercy on me, O God, according to your great compassion.
Pre-Chorus:
Blot out my sin! Wash it away!
Cleanse me from every wrong.
Verse 2:
For I know my sins, O God, they are always before me;
For I know my sins, O God, they are against you, you alone.
Pre-Chorus 2:
Let me hear joy! Let me hear gladness!
Create in me a pure heart.
2014 Mike Neifert
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I've been an off and on crossword solver for many years. My wife, a year or so back, joined me in working these wordy things. In this episode, I'll tell you how we do things together and talk about how the many members of the church are to work similarly in tandem. (WARNING: There are bad crossword puns at the end.)
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A challenging question from Kyle Idleman's book, One at a Time, prompted thoughts about how I do or do not feel compassion for the hurting people around me. In this episode, I answer the question, tell a story of a time when a complete stranger mattered a great deal to me, and let one of Jesus' parables prompt prayer for a more caring heart.
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Jesus humbled himself and became a man. That's Christmas. He further humbled himself and died for mankind's sin. That's Good Friday. In this episode, I invite you to humble yourself and follow Jesus every day.
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It's the night before the night before Christmas as this episode goes live. I'm sure a few listeners are frantically trying to get their last minute tasks done. I invite them (you) to pause for a minute and consider what the night before the night Jesus was born was like. My hope is the five minutes you spend considering that night and the next will lead you to worship, will lead you to celebrate the one whose birth brought us peace.
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In John 1, Jesus is named the Word. Verse 1: "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God." These words and others from the chapter along with a chorus I'd written years ago, became the song you'll hear today. I hope its lyrics will help you celebrate the coming of the Light of the World.
The Light Breaks Forth
Verse 1:
The Word who was before the world
The Word who was with God
That Word was born in a cattle stall
And all the heavens rang
Chorus 1:
The Light breaks forth from the darkness
The Life bursts out of the grave
The Word spins out of the mouth of God
And all creation gives praise!
Verse 2:
The Light who came into the world
The Light who made men see
That Light revealed the love of God
For cursed humanity
Verse 3:
The Life who died upon the cross
The Life who paid for sin
That Life endured both pain and loss
And then he rose again
2022 Mike Neifert (Inspired by John 1)
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My fitness app, if I look in the right section, assures me I'm in great shape. I could take that bit of data and imagine myself immortal, but I know better. God's word urges me to number my days in order to gain wisdom.
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Henry was 80 on the day I shared the gospel with him. That's pretty late in life to hear and believe. Listen to hear what happened after I talked with Henry, read Scripture to him, then let God do his work.
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What if you read Psalm 100 and it's calls to praise and worship and give thanks every single day for the next week or so? How my your heart be changed? How might your mind be transformed?
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This song almost didn't make it into this podcast. I tell you why in this episode. It's not because of the words, but because of a connection to a religious group I'm not in accord with. I am in full accord with the God who is with us, who will never leave us, never forsake us. It's to him this song is dedicated. I pray it will bless you.
The Prayer for Protection
Verse:The light of God surrounds you;
The love of God enfolds you;
The power of God protects you;
The presence of God watches over you.
Wherever you are God is.
(Words by James Dillet Freeman/Music by Mike Neifert -2016)
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I gained a new title this week: Grampa Mike! I'm pretty excited about this new name. The reason for the promotion is amazing! In this episode, I ponder God's goodness in making this new human and in seeing us through times of suffering.
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Cataloging which of my original compositions I've shared in this podcast and which I haven't revealed a couple of surprises. The first shock came when I saw the actual number of songs I've penned. The second came when I realized how many of the tunes I'd forgotten. In this episode, I share the words to some of my lost worship songs in order to encourage you. Stay tuned to the end. There's a bit of a surprise ending.
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There's a story from the prophet Elisha's life which involves bears mauling 42 youths after they'd mocked the man. In this episode, I kind of explain what might have caused God's wrath to fall so violently on those jeering his balding prophet and share a quirky song I wrote after reading the account of this incident from 2 Kings 2:23-25. I hope you learn something and enjoy the song. (I'm not sharing the lyrics here. No sense spoiling the fun of discovery as you listen.)
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Are you weighed down by the cares of this life, by the anxiety in your soul? Jesus invites you to come to him for what you need most: REST! Will you listen and receive what he offers?
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Of all the ugly things we have to deal with in our inner being, selfishness is among the most common. We want what we want and we want it now. This tendency to shout MINE at the top of our lungs can keep us from following Jesus as it did for a man our master encountered in Mark 10.
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Through Isaiah, God issues an invitation to soul-thirsty people. He offers something which is amazing beyond imagination to a nation in exile. He offers life. Listen in as I talk about God's summons and how you can respond to it.
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Inspired by the words of Psalm 99, I offer the song, The Lord God Reigns, as a prompt to worship the great, awesome, just, right, and holy God over all nations. May you be encouraged to "fear not" as you listen and worship.
The Lord God Reigns (Psalm 99)
Verse:
The Lord God reigns, let the nations tremble (at his voice)
The Lord is great, exalted over all (the earth)
The Lord is holy, just and right
The Lord is mighty, we worship at his feet (oooooh!)
Chorus:
Above all nations; above all kings!
Above creation, the Lord God reigns!
Above all angels; above all gods!
Above all powers, the Lord God reigns!
2022 Mike Neifert (Inspired by Psalm 99)
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A simple sticker on my YETI water bottle produced a question from a tween girl the other day. The sticker referred to Celebrate Recovery, a group I meet with every week to find support in overcoming addictions and living more healthily. How would I answer the young person before me? Having this discussion reminded me of a similar question Peter anticipates in his first letter to the church.
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Choosing words carefully while playing the game "Dictionary" leads to great fun. Choosing words wisely in life is more important. Listen in as I talk about words in both contexts.
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Every one of us, at some point, struggles to find words to express our needs, wants, desires, questions to God in prayer. In this episode, I explain how we can use God's revealed word to find words to pray to him. (David Platt's "Pray the Word" podcast inspired this episode. Find more about him at Radical.net.)
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I wrote "Blessed Is the One", a song based on Psalm 1, as a reminder of the path to happiness in life and peace with God. My prayer is that it will bless you as you listen and that you will choose to follow God in all your ways.
Blessed Is the One (Psalm 1)
Verse 1:
Blessed is the one
Who does not walk in step with wicked men
Blessed is the one
Who does not stand in the path that sinners take
Blessed is the one
Who does not sit in the company of the mockers
He will flourish like a tree
Planted by a pleasant stream
Verse 2:
Blessed is the one
Who delights in the law of the Lord, our God
Blessed is the one
Who thinks upon God’s word day and night without fail
Blessed is the one
Who will stand at the judgment seat of God without fear
Not so the wicked one
Who will be blown away like chaff
2022 Mike Neifert
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Yes and No signs all over town. That's what Kansans experienced recently. The issue: abortion. Now that the election's over and the No-voters outnumbered the Yes-voters, how do believers deal with those with whom they disagreed? How can Jesus-followers interact without creating more division? Jesus has something to say to his church about this. Several somethings to say.
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I know most people don't find doors all that funny. I do. Sort of. In this episode, I'll tell you the story of why and then talk about how we can move away from doing weird stuff to deal with the troubles of our lives and find healing.
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What does Jesus want for his church? What does he desire for the saved? The answer is found in his prayer in John 17. He prays for the things his followers need most. Reading his prayer a while back inspired me to write a simple prayer and worship song based on Jesus' prayer in hopes the church would join him in praying for what matters most. I pray you will be moved by it and encouraged in your faith.
Holy Father
Verse 1:
Holy Father, protect your church
By the power of your name
That they may be one as you are one
With the Spirit and with the Son
Verse 2:
Holy Father, give your church
Within their spirits, within their souls
The full measure of your joy
Through the Spirit and through the Son
Verse 3:
Holy Father, make your church
Completely holy by the truth
Sanctify them by your word
Through the Spirit and through the Son Verse 4:
Holy Father, send your church
To the peoples of the earth
That you might save them from their sin
Through your word and by your Son
Verse 5:
Holy Father, raise your church
Up to heaven to see your Son
In all his glory, in all his might
And live forever, with great joy
2022 Mike Neifert
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On August 13, 2021, I posted a first-of-its-kind episode in which I touted some of my favorite podcasts. I mentioned four which were especially encouraging to me and my spiritual growth at the time. Here I am a year later (still loving the Bible Recap and the Ten-Minute Bible Hour) with a new list of programs which spur me on to love and good works. Give this episode a listen and then see if one or two of the six shows I preview might be right for you.
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My wife and I spend a lot of time wandering this way and that on trails. We love hiking. In this episode, I recount a time when we started in the wrong direction and what we did about it. A lesson is to be had.
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Like shade on a sunny summer day, God is our refuge in times of struggle. In this episode, I honor God, our rescuer, with a few words and a song of praise. "In You, Lord, Have I Taken Refuge" is based on many words from David's 31st psalm. I pray it will encourage you.
In You, Lord, Have I Taken Refuge (Psalm 31)
Verse 1:
In you, Lord, have I taken refuge;
Let me never be put to shame;
Deliver me in your righteousness;
Come quickly to my rescue;
Be my rock and my shelter, Lord,
A strong fortress to save me.
In you, Lord, have I taken refuge;
Let me never be put to shame!
Bridge:
Be merciful
Turn your ear to me
Verse 2
In you, Lord, have I taken refuge;
Let me never be put to shame;
For the sake of your great name
Set me free from the snares that bind me
Into your hands I place my spirit;
Deliver me, Lord, deliver me!
In you, Lord, have I taken refuge;
Let me never be put to shame!
2022 Mike Neifert (Inspired by Psalm 31)
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You can't go back and fix the mistakes in your past. You can't go back and relive the good times. What are you to do then? In this episode, I talk about what I learned from God after the transmission on my van went out.
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This episode was released one year to the day and hour after my dad died. My dad was a faithful follower of Jesus and I wanted to honor him on this occasion. I wanted to remember again how blessed my family and I are to have known and loved this godly man.
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I'd like to pin the blame for the lyrical lunacy on Donny and Marie Osmond. I was listening to them shortly before The Waffle Song which I share on this episode burst forth from the womb of my imagination. I hope you are entertained by this syrupy sweet love song and that you'll sing it every single time you make or eat waffles for the rest of your life.
The Waffle Song
Verse 1:
Makin’ waffles
Makin’ waffles
Makin’ waffles for the love of my life.
Sausage and waffles
Bacon and waffles
Chicken and waffles for my children and my wife.
Verse 2:
Eatin’ waffles
Skicky, wicky waffles
Ooey, gooey waffles with the love of my life.
Sausage and waffles
Bacon and waffles
Chicken and waffles with my children and my wife.
2020 Mike Neifert
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A strange instruction given me by the manufacturer when I needed an under-warranty replacement coffee maker triggered thoughts about the costs of following Jesus. This episode tells the tale of woe concerning my brewer and the narrative of Jesus inviting would-be-disciples to give up important things to join the kingdom.
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Human judgment, whatever its form, is ungodly. In this episode, you'll learn how God corrected me in a moment when I was not expecting a rebuke from him. Perhaps you'll learn from my mistake and grow in graciousness.
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Psalm 139 is my favorite psalm. God is honored in its words as the one who is always there. In this episode, I share my second song adaptation of a section from this psalm. The first, Walk in Your Ways, which was featured in Episode 14, focused on the prayer which ends the psalm. This episode's song, Where Could I Go?, brings to life the second section which asks the pertinent question every person must ask: Is there anywhere I could go to get away from God? The psalmist (and all of Scripture) shouts, "No!" May God bless you with a sense of his closeness as you listen.
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For more than a half year, I've been spending 20 to 30 minutes every morning taking in the Bible Recap's Bible reading plan on my YouVersion app and listening to Tara-Leigh Cobble's Bible Recap podcast. I've been encouraged by the good words from God and from Ms. Cobble. This episode takes on the 5 prayers the Bible Recap folks put together to encourage connection with God while reading his word. I think they'll be helpful to you. (Visit thebiblerecap.com for more info on the Bible Recap.)
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A few months ago, our house was invaded. The story of this intrusion on our normal everyday life is epic...as you shall see (or hear).
Background music: Car Chase by Paweł Feszczuk (https://freemusicarchive.org/music/pawel-feszczuk/single/car-chase)
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Lamentations 3:40 says, "Let us examine our ways and test them, and let us return to the Lord..." These words inspired the song I share on this episode, a song of invitation to all who want a close and unhindered relationship with God, free from the guilt and power of sin. The invitation is to examine heart and soul and mind and action so God can show the way out of sin and into the life of joy he wants for every believer.
Examine
Verse 1:
Let us examine all our ways,
and let us return to our Lord.
Let us lift up our hearts and hands
to our God who alone can save.
Chorus 1:
For we have sinned against his name;
For we have sinned against his word;
For we have sinned against his love;
And deserve wrath
Verse 2:
Let us consider every word,
that proceeds from the mouth of our Lord.
Let us turn from sin and gain life
from our God who alone can save.
Chorus 2:
For we have sinned against his name;
For we have sinned against his word;
For we have sinned against his love;
2022 Mike Neifert
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I'm probably making a huge mistake in introducing you to the Worshicken. What is the Worshicken you ask? Listen to find out. The song which I play a snippet of in this episode can be heard (and seen) in its entirety on YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1ZjB0UOzOg
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The Bible tells us to honor our moms and dads, so this week, I'm putting out a good word about my kind, generous, loving, cookie-making mom. Happy Mother's Day, mom! (And to all the other moms!)
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Scripture says, "Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn." (Romans 12:15) I had to learn how to put this into practice when a friend's dog died years ago. The lesson I learned in the late 1980s is still with me today. It helps me empathize with others no matter the loss they're experiencing.
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In our kitchen on the Saturday before Easter in 2013 a wacky moment occurred. As young women sat around our table dying eggs for a Sunday morning hunt. I grabbed my guitar and starting singing goofy stuff about dying eggs. Not dying as in coloring. Dying as in becoming dead! I offer the song to you today for your enjoyment.
Dying Eggs
Verse 1:
Sterile and white,
Not a chance for life,
No rooster to fertilize
Snatched from under their mamas
Placed in a cardboard crate.
Chorus 1:Dying eggs, dying eggs,
Dying eggs, dying eggs,
Dying eggs, dying eggs,
Placed in a cardboard crate,
Oh, those dying eggs.
Verse 2:
Lying in rows
Which a farmer chose
For their final resting place.
Shipped in a truck to a grocery store
Set on a cold, hard shelf.
Chorus 2:Dying eggs, dying eggs,
Dying eggs, dying eggs,
Dying eggs, dying eggs,
Set on a cold, hard shelf,
Oh, those dying eggs.
Verse 3:Purchased for kids,
dropped in boiling liquids,
Like a cob of golden corn.
Colors in cups,
each egg takes a dip
Readying for Easter morn.
Chorus 3:Dying eggs, dying eggs,
Dying eggs, dying eggs,
Dying eggs, dying eggs,
Readying for Easter morn
Oh, those dying eggs.
Verse 4:Hid in the grass,
All the children pass,
They can’t find the stealthy eggs.
Forgotten for days,
In the heat and the haze,
Their shells begin to crack.
Chorus 4:Rotten eggs, rotten eggs,
Rotten eggs, rotten eggs,
Rotten eggs, rotten eggs,
Their shells begin to crack.
Oh, those rotten eggs.
2013 Mike Neifert
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This Good Friday episode is a somber reminder of what Jesus did for us. It is by his wounds we are healed.
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"As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another." (Proverbs 27:17)
In this episode, I recount how a new running partner rekindled a dream and how some of my believing friends (and family members) with the Holy Spirit's help keep me moving in the right direction - heavenward! Hope you'll be encouraged and that you'll find reason to thank God for the people in your life who spur you on.
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A moment of peril in a local school cafeteria reminds me of an odd event in Israel's history. I tell the story of both in this episode and share the important lesson learned from a moment of grave danger for the people of God. (Oh, and, HAPPY APRIL FOOL'S DAY!!)
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The song I share in this episode was written as I contemplated Philippians 2:5-11 and sought to honor Jesus, the Son of God who humbled himself to save the world, and who God, the Father, exalted to the highest place. My prayer as you listen is that you will bend your knee to Jesus and humbly confess him as Lord to the glory of God the Father.
Humbled, Exalted
Verse 1:
Humbled, God became a man
It was the Father’s plan to save the world
Humbled, the Son, as servant came
Took the cursed man’s blame to save the world
Humbled, the sinless sacrifice
He paid the awful price to save the world
Humbled, hanging on the cross
Enduring pain and loss to save the world
Verse 2:
Exalted, to the Son be highest praise
Our hands to heav’n raise; He saved the world
Exalted, the name above all names
Is His, the church proclaims; He saved the world
Exalted, see the crown upon his brow
Before Him humbly bow; He saved the world
Exalted, with our tongues we all confess
Jesus’ blood, our righteousness; He saved the world
2022 Mike Neifert
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A plain cardboard box appears in my office seemingly out of nowhere. I don't recall how it got there. I open it and find... (You'll have to listen to discover that!) This incident got me to thinking about God's choice of people to take the good news to the world. That's what I'm talking about in this episode. (I promise there's a big reveal at the end!)
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I've had more than a few addictions in my life. (Nothing illegal!) I'm working on them with God's help. In this episode, I talk about a verse from one of Paul's letters which helps me judge whether something is okay to continue in or something which I must rid my life of.
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You reap what you sow. That's the consistent message of Paul's writing. (Jesus says the same in a variety of ways, too.) In this episode, we'll hear a few of Paul's sow and reap passages and talk about the freedom we can have when we sow the right things.
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The song I share with you today was and then almost wasn't. I recorded the tune and typed out the words at the beginning of the year, then forgot about it till, two weeks later, I was looking for another song I'd written. There it was. Unfinished. With a little work, I finished the composition process and recorded the final version. In this episode, I share the song, but more than that, the process my songs go through from start to finish. Hope you enjoy and find happiness as you worship Jesus, the one who died for and rose for you. He lives in you, believer!
Dying for Me, Risen for Me
Verse 1:
Dying for me, dying for me
By Christ’s blood shed freely
I’m forgiven, set free
Chorus 1:Jesus died for me
Hung upon that tree
I’m forgiven and free
I am so free
Verse 2:
Risen for me, risen for me
Through Christ’s resurrection
I’m alive and set free
Chorus 2:Jesus rose for me
Won my victory
I’m alive and free
I am so free
Verse 3:
Living in me, living in me
By Christ’s Holy Spirit
I’m empowered, set free
Chorus 3:Jesus lives in me
No longer guilty
I’m empowered and free
I am so free
2022 Mike Neifert
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Can you believe a guy who is sort of, kind of, mostly dealing well with ADHD has stuck with a podcast for 100 episodes? Amazing! In this episode, I talk about why I'm still here and think about the future of this little thing called the Pocketneif Podcast. (Thanks for listening!)
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You have needs. I have needs. What would happen if we looked out for each other? I have some ideas of what that would look like. I share them in this episode.
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An incident at a recent basketball game and a note stuck in my mailbox at the school triggered thoughts about my willingness to share my faith with others.
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This is another one of those episodes which, if you have small children around, you might want to wait to give it a listen. While I won't be overly graphic or terribly detailed, I will be discussing the abuse I suffered in my teen years. Tim Hein's book, Understanding Sexual Abuse, which I finished a month or so ago, was helpful to me as a survivor and as a pastor. Hein understands abuse because he's been abused and understands pastors because he is one. His final chapter is full of ideas for dealing with trauma and its repercussions.
About halfway through the book, as Hein talked about the psalms of lament, I stopped reading for a few moments. I picked up my guitar and began writing my own song of lamentation. The words, based partly on Psalm 13 and somewhat on my own roiling emotional response to abuse, question God. HOW LONG?
If you've asked that question, I hope my song and the words of this episode can lead you toward healing.
How Long? (The Lament of the Abused)
For many long years;
I’ve hidden how I feel; my shame is all that’s real.
How long, Lord? How long?
For many long years;
Pain has been my food; I cry out and no one’s moved.
How long, Lord? How long?
For forty long years;
Thoughts come unwelcome, unbidden, undoing me.
How long, Lord? How long?
For forty long years;
Memories flood my heart while hot tears flow down my face.
How long, Lord? How long?
For how many more?
Look on me and answer; give light to my soul before I die.
How long, Lord? How long?
For how many more?
I trust you in the darkness; your Spirit offers peace to me.
How long, Lord? How long?
How long, Lord?
2021 Mike Neifert (Written 40 years after my abuse ended)
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You can tell what kind of fruit tree you're looking like by what you find hanging from its branches. You can tell if a person has the Spirit of God living in them by the fruit displayed in their lives. In this episode, I offer a few questions for you to evaluate how fully the fruit of the Spirit is showing in your life. There's no condemnation here, just honest queries to help you see where God might want you to grow.
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God commanded his people when they were in captivity to pray for the peace and prosperity of the place to which they'd been exiled. Obeying his instructions to them seems right and good for those who love him today. In this episode, I pray for the city in which I dwell and encourage others to pray earnestly for their communities
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When Isaiah encountered God's holiness, he was undone. He pronounced woe upon himself. We would do well to take sin as seriously as the prophet did. In this episode, I sing my woe out to God and ask him to purify me as he did Isaiah.
Woe to Me
Verse 1:
Woe to me! My heart unclean! My sin of - fends the holy King! Woe to me!
Woe to me! I am undone! No righteousness that is my own! Woe to me!
Chorus 1:
Lord, please purify my heart!
Purge each hidden sinful part!
Help me make a brand new start!
Purify my heart!
Verse 2:
Woe to me! My lips and tongue utter words I should not speak! Woe to me!
Woe to me! My mouth, it speaks, anger when it should speak peace! Woe to me!
Chorus 2:
Lord, please purify my mouth!
Guard each word that I let out!
Help me speak your words of truth!
Purify my mouth!
Verse 3:
Woe to me! My feet, they run, along the path that leads to death! Woe to me!
Woe to me! My steps, they stray, from God’s holy, narrow way! Woe to me!
Chorus 3:
Lord, please purify my feet!
Order every step I take!
Guide me in the narrow way! Purify my feet!
Ending:Purify my mouth! Purify my heart!
2014 Mike Neifert
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Pretending you don't have a sin problem, ignoring the mess others make as they sin, doesn't make the problem go away. It makes things worse. In this episode, after a story about a physical urge to purge and a stinky situation, I talk about confession and the freedom faith in Jesus brings.
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This Christmas my family will gather together to remember Jesus' birth and celebrate the salvation he came to bring. When we sit down together in the living room at my mom's house, my dad won't be with us to read the Christmas story or point us to Jesus. Even though we know he's with the one whose birth we celebrate, my dad's passing leaves a hole in our hearts. We miss him. In this episode, I reflect on the loss we're experiencing and turn my eyes (and your eyes) upon Jesus.
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My prayer as I share my reinvention of the classic, "O, Come, All Ye Faithful," is that you would be moved to worship the newborn king, Jesus, God's Son, and honor the Father for the great gift he's given us!
O Come, Ye! Adore Him!
Intro:O, come, ye! Adore him!
Verse 1:
O come, ye faithful people, hearts filled up with joy!
O come and behold him, born the Word made flesh.
Refrain:O, come, ye! Adore him!
Verse 2:
Son of God begotten; Light of the whole world.
O come and behold him, born to set men free.
Verse 3:
O sing all, ye hosts of heav’n; shout your praise to God.
O come and behold him, born the Prince of Peace.
Verse 4:Yea, Lord, we greet Thee; on this happy morn.
We kneel and adore Thee, born the Lord of life.
Refrain 2:O come, we to adore Thee! O come, we to adore!
O, come, we! To adore Thee!
Verse 5:To Jesus be all glory; on the earth and in the skies.
O come and behold him, born the King of kings.
Ending:O come, ye! Adore him! O come, ye! And adore!
O come, ye! Adore him! O come, ye! And adore!
O, come, ye! Adore him!
O, come, ye! O, come, ye!
O, come, ye!
2021 Mike Neifert
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George of the Jungle had a problem with trees. His friends warned him often, but he kept meeting up with said trees as he swung through the forest on a vine. Sometimes, we fall into sin because we don't heed the warnings of God and our friends.
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We all want to communicate. We see evidence of it all around us - people talking on phones, notification dings, kids staring at their phones frenetically typing texts. How much of our communication is messed up? Is there a way to fix it? This episode explores those questions. I hope it will instruct and encourage.
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When someone does something good for you or gives you a special gift, giving thanks is good and right to do. In this episode, I invited friends and family members, people around town and across the country, to give thanks with me to honor Thanksgiving Day in the United States. I hope you are encouraged by the words of thanks all of us together put forth.
Music Attributions:
Rain Soaked Window by Marcos H. Balanos
https://freemusicarchive.org/music/Marcos_H_Bolanos/True_Stories/rain-soaked-window
Moon Acoustic Vibes by LesFM
https://lesfm.net
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A weird online purchase made. A mistake made. A complaint sent. That's the scenario which led to the recording of this episode. Listen in and consider what complaints you might like to make.
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Sometimes life can be hard. You feel like you're running up a hill, barely able to catch your breath. The song I present in today's episode is as much about the rough patches in life as it is about the sandy, hilly rural byway which inspired it. Falcon Road, a side road a mile or two south of Sawyer, Kansas, is a road I and the cross country team I coach have run numerous times. It is challenging...just like life. I hope you are encouraged by the song which, until now, hasn't been sung much outside the tight circle of cross country runners and their parents.
Falcon Road
Verse 1:
Falcon Road, your hills that meet the sky,
Make me wanna cry, “Why am I running here?”
Falcon Road, can’t hardly stand the heat,
Or the sand beneath my feet, “Why am I running here?”
Chorus 1:
Your slopes rise up to beat me,
While the wind blows in my face.
I can barely take my next step,
Falcon Road, why am I running here?
Verse 2:
Falcon Road, your thorns stick in my socks
And my shoes fill up with rocks, “Why am I running here?”
Falcon Road, run across your valley floor,
I’m begging, please, no more, “Why am I running here?”
Verse 3:
Falcon Road, when life starts to fall apart,
And the pain tears at my heart, “Why am I running here?”
Falcon Road, I don’t think I can make it through,
But you tell me that’s not true, that’s why I’m running here.
Chorus 2:
When life tries to defeat me
And the world gets in my face
I’ll remember what you taught me, Falcon Road,
And I’ll keep running on, running on, running on.
Verse 4:
Falcon Road, your hills that meet the sky,
Make me wanna cry, “Why am I running here?”
Falcon Road, can’t hardly stand the heat,
Or the sand beneath my feet, but I’m still running here.
Chorus 3:
When life tries to defeat me
And the world gets in my face
I’ll remember what you taught me, Falcon Road,
And I’ll keep running on, running on, running on,
Ending:
Falcon Road, Oo – oo.
Falcon Road, Oo – oo.
I’ll keep running on Falcon Road.
I’ll keep running on Falcon Road.
I’ll keep running on Falcon Road.
Falcon Road.
2014 Mike Neifert
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We all have annoying habits, right? I know I do, right? I talk about a couple of them in this episode and suggest a habit which might be worse than any of my others, right? Hope you enjoy it, right? It's going to be good, right? Let me know, right?
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This episode is a confessional of sorts. In it I confess the almost constant fearfulness of my past and tell the story of how God rescued me from it. I'm grateful for all God has done for me and want to give him praise for this change he's made in my heart and give him credit for every good thing that anyone sees in me. It's all him! Trust me!
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What or who are your eyes fixed on? The writer of Hebrews, in chapter 12, urges his readers to fix their eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. (See verses 1-3.) The song I share in this episode draws from Hebrews and other biblical source material to call believers to keep their eyes on the One who saves from sin!
Eyes on Jesus
Verse 1:Eyes on Jesus! Eyes on Jesus!
Pure and holy, free from sin!
Keep your gaze steady;
Don't let it waver.
Eyes on the one who died for men.
Verse 2:Eyes on Jesus! Eyes on Jesus!
The crucified one who rose again.
Keep your gaze steady;
Don't let it waver.
Eyes on the one who lives in heav'n!
Verse 3:Eyes on Jesus! Eyes on Jesus!
Who for joy bore all our shame
Keep your gaze steady;
Don't let it waver.
Eyes on the one who frees from sin.
Verse 4:Eyes on Jesus! Eyes on Jesus!
Seated now at God's right hand.
Keep your gaze steady;
Don't let it waver.
Eyes on the one who pleads for men.
Verse 5:Eyes on Jesus! Eyes on Jesus!
Immanuel, the King of kings!
Keep your gaze steady;
Don't let it waver.
Eyes on the one who rules all men.
2021 Mike Neifert
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I am a coach and a pastor. In both arenas, I recognize the need to focus on each and every person and not the nebulous blob of humanity. Coaching and pastoring are both about leading individuals. It's about teaching people not just a sport or just a theological truth.
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Years ago, H.B. London, then a nationally recognized pastor to pastors, set aside October as Pastor Appreciation Month. In this episode, I take note of the support from my congregation, from denominational leaders, and from my local crew of pastors who encourage me all the time. If you are thankful for your pastor, send a note! Let the person who preaches God's word to you know of your appreciation. Every single pastor I know would love to know their labor in the Lord is not in vain!
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I am not the most patient person. I’m not good at waiting at all. I need help! God, through the psalmist, invites me to wait on the Lord and enjoy the benefits of that waiting – forgiveness, full redemption, steadfast love. In this episode, I share a song based on a few verses from Psalm 130. The words encourage me (and you) to wait on God and receive the good things he has for us.
I Wait for the Lord
Verse:
I wait for the Lord, my whole being waits.
I wait for the Lord, and in his word I put my hope.
I wait for the Lord more than watchmen wait for the morning.
I wait for the Lord. I wait. I wait.
Chorus:Put your hope in the Lord, for with the Lord is unfailing love.
Put your hope in the Lord, for with the Lord is unfailing love.
2019 Mike Neifert
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Do you like the idea of God's wrath? No one does. It seems to many a little beneath God to get angry or reactive. What if God is full of wrath precisely because he is loving? That's the question I explore in this episode.
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Familiarity breeds contempt. Or so the saying goes. The "we know him" seems to play a part in people's rejection of Jesus when he comes to his hometown. Could we learn a lesson from their reactions and perhaps not miss out on what God wants to do in our lives? That's the question we'll tackle in this episode.
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Are you at peace? Maybe you are resting in God's love and grace. Maybe you're uptight and all your life feels out of control. In this episode, I offer a song which offers rest for the soul. Actually, it's God who offers his peace to all who depend on him. It is my hope he will speak to you as you listen and when it's all said and done, you will be at peace.
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Do you have a few favorite voices? I bet you do. We all love to hear the voices of those whom we love. What about electronic voices? Do you have a fav? I do. In this episode, I tell the story of how I found the perfect AI voice for me and then talk about the one Voice that you and I must hear. Hint: It's not an electronic one. (My apologies in advance for setting off every Android phone's Google Assistant a minute or so into this one.)
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If you've never Google "weird holidays", you need to do so. I have found plenty of reasons to offer cheery holiday greetings to friends on random days and multiple opportunities to partake of delicious foods which have their own day. In this episode, I invite you to celebrate with me National Just Because Day just because it's National Just Because Day. Even if you're not listening on the official holiday, I'm sure you can find some "just because" thing to do to brighten someone's day. (If you do so, be sure to post to social media and add a the #NationalJustBecauseDay and #PocketNeifPodcast hashtags so I can see what you did just because!)
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"The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear?" With these words, David's song of confidence in God begins. They are the same words I used to begin a song I wrote back in 2012, shortly after I learned to play the guitar. I did so as part of a mini-one-man play I wrote and performed at our church. In this episode, I sing the song for you and encourage you to put your faith in the Lord who is YOUR light and YOUR salvation!
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This episode is a bit different than most. In it, I offer up my top four podcast recommendations (with a side plug for my church’s sermon podcast). These shows are the places I turn for inspiration and learning when I need it. I have grown in knowledge and understanding as I’ve taken in messages from Tim Keller and listened to the background info that Tara Leigh Cobble and Matt Whitman offer. I’ve been encouraged to remain faithful to God’s word through Alisa Childers’ apologetics-themed conversations with guests. Take a listen to my thoughts about each show and then, if one strikes your fancy, give it a spin. Below you’ll find website links to each show recommended. On a couple of the pages, you'll have to do a bit of scanning on the page to find the link you want. Every one of the shows is available on a wide variety of podcast platforms, so look in your favorite app and see if they're there.
Timothy Keller Sermon Podcast - https://podcast.gospelinlife.com
Friendly Words Podcast - https://anchor.fm/friendly-words
The Bible Recap Podcast - http://www.thebiblerecap.com/start
The Ten-Minute Bible Hour Podcast - https://www.thetmbh.com/podcast
Alisa Childers Podcast - https://www.alisachilders.com/podcast.html
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I learned something important about conflict in relationships from the TV crime drama, Blue Bloods, a favorite show of mine a few years back. I watched Tom Selleck's character, Frank Reagan, interact with another character, his chief of staff, Garrett Moore, played by Gregory Jbara. They went back and forth about everything under the sun, holding no punches. There was no lesson in the shouting and screaming, but in what happened later. In this episode, I share how I've learned to be more Frank in my relationships with others. Hope you enjoy! (Tom Selleck is still Magnum, P.I. to me!)
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Years after the events detailed in episode 70 took place, God gave me a prayer song to express how I had felt and how he had transformed my desires. This song is seldom sung in public. I hardly ever get through in practice without tearing up. Somehow after several false starts, I got it on "tape" and am ready to share it with you. (If you haven't listened to episode 70, go do it now and come back. This episode isn't as powerful without the background info.)
Prayer for My Enemy
Verse 1:
Father, I hated him. In my heart I wished him dead.
You say I must forgive this man and pray for him instead.
I don’t know if I’ve got the strength to follow your command.
Father, help me. Oh, help me.
Chorus 1:
Your heart is filled with love for him. Your desire is for peace.
Though it’s hard for me to pray this way, May your mercy never cease.
Forgive him. Oh, forgive him.
Don’t let him live another day without grace.
Verse 2:
Father, grow your love in me. Tear out the bitter root.
Take away my anger, Lord. In its place produce your fruit.
I know I haven’t got the strength to follow on my own.
Father, help me. Oh, help me.
Chorus 2:
Your heart of love is freeing me. Your desire is for peace.
Though it once was hard to pray this way, May your mercy never cease.
Forgive him. Oh, forgive him.
Don’t let him live another day without grace.
Verse 3:
Father, please save him. Redeem his life from sin.
I beg of you, forgive this man, his soul to heaven win.
I know he hasn’t got the strength to follow on his own.
Father, help him. Oh, help him.
Chorus 3:
Your heart of love has freed my soul. I desire now his peace.
I don’t find it hard to pray today, May your mercy never cease.
I forgive him, Lord. I forgive him.
Don’t let him live another day without grace.
2013 Mike Neifert
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God's grace has done amazing things in my life. I have been healed from incredibly hurtful things done to me. In this admittedly PG-rated episode - you are hearby warned - I talk about the path my life took from hateful to hopeful, from fretting to forgiving. Who I am and how I am today is all because of Jesus' work in my life. I pray this bit of openness about a dark spot in my past will bring you to the place where you can find freedom.
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Are there words from God in the Bible that cause a great deal of angst in your soul? That's your struggle-verse! (Kind of like a universe, but different, maybe?) In this episode, I want to welcome you to my struggle-verse, a short phrase Jesus spoke during his famous, Sermon on the Mount. I have to deal with the ramifications of my master's words in this verse more often than I like and I don't always get it right. I am praying for discernment and generous obedience. Maybe you need to talk to Jesus about your struggle-verse, too. When you're done listening (or right now if you like), you can do just that.
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Love is in the air, at least in our clan. My daughter is getting married the weekend of this episode's release. That's why I'm posting a love song, not a mushy, gushy, I love you, Baby ditty, but a worship song honoring the God who is love. I hope the truth of the words of 1 Corinthians 13 I've put to music and attributed to our Father in heaven will cause your love for God (and others) to grow.
Love Always Hangs On
Verse 1:
Love is patient. Love is kind.
It does not envy.
It does not boast.
It is not proud, nor is it rude,
It seeks not itself.
Love is not easily angered.
It keeps no record of wrongs.
It doesn’t delight in evil,
But rejoices with the truth.
It always protects.
It always trusts.
It always hopes.
It always hangs on.
Chorus 1:
Love never fails.
Love never fails.
Love never fails.
It always hangs on.
Bridge:
So if you wonder ‘bout God’s love.
And want to know it’s true.
Just remember what his word says
God is love and so it’s true that…
Verse 2:
God is patient. God is kind.
He does not envy.
He does not boast.
He is not proud, nor is he rude,
He seeks not himself.
God is not easily angered.
He keeps no record of wrongs.
He doesn’t delight in evil,
But rejoices with the truth.
God always protects.
God always trusts,
He always hopes.
God always hangs on.
Chorus 2:
God never fails.
God never fails.
God never fails.
He always hangs on.
Love never fails.
Love never fails.
Love never fails.
It always hangs on.
God always hangs on.
Ending:
God is patient. God is kind.
Love is patient. Love is kind.
2013 Mike Neifert
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I'm not very good at following holiday schedules when teaching. I've made some kind of strange errors over the years. I tell a couple of those stories in this episode and try my best to address the U.S. holiday closest to this session's release. What comes out of my mouth is more about freedom in Christ than American history and the values of the founding fathers. Hope you learn something from my meanderings.
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I moved to Pratt, Kansas, ten years ago. In the early years of my tenure here, we started a new ministry to the hurting. Perhaps you've heard of Celebrate Recovery. In recent days, our church, which has shrunk some in attendance and skewed older, has begun to think maybe it's time to seek God for new ministry opportunities. In this episode, I share my observations of God's work in Pratt over the past decade and urge every church to look to God for direction for decades to come.
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The Church of England's Night Prayer (Compline) was the inspiration for the song I'm sharing with you in this episode. I will admit, my words went far afield from the original. (My apologies to my CoE brothers and sisters in Christ.) What I offer to you today is a bluegrassy, folksy tune which asks for God's protection through the night. My prayer is that the song will bless you and inspire you to seek God for rest as you lay down each night.
Before the Ending of the Day
Verse 1:Before the ending of the day, O, Good Shepherd of the sheep,
we pray that you with steadfast love, would guard us while we sleep
Verse 2:Your watch around us in the dark, O Lord, our only light,
From evil dreams defend our minds, no more terrors in the night
Verse 3:Through the hours cold and grim, to you God we sing our hymn
The foe may shout and scream, Defeat! but we tremble not for him
Verse 4:As the darkness turns to dawn, O, Creator of all days,
May our hearts to heaven turn, and our lips to you sing praise!
©2021 Mike Neifert
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At the end of Matthew 9, Jesus invites a new kind of prayer: prayer for harvest hands to be sent out. In this episode, we read the story surrounding Jesus' invitation to prayer and hear his voice calling us to pray and GO!
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Lost sinners need prayer more than ailing saints. That was the message last time we talked. Today, the follow up message is lost sinners need your proximity more than fellow believers. We'll examine the story of Matthew, the tax collector's calling as we learn this lesson.
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Most church's publicly posted prayer lists are full of requests concerning physical maladies. My church's bulletin has such a list. If you only saw these lists, you'd get the idea that healing in the here and now was the first concern of God's kingdom. It is not! In this episode, we remind ourselves of the ones who need prayer far more than any ailing believer.
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The church is our Lord's bride. She belongs to Christ, not to herself. Christ can lead her as he pleases. Those are the themes of this original song, one of the first I wrote for more than personal enjoyment. I pray it will encourage you as you, together with your fellowship of believers, bring God glory through your work and worship.
Yours Lord
Verse 1:Argonia Friends is yours, Lord;
Argonia Friends is yours.
Argonia Friends is yours, Lord,
To do with as you please.
Verse 2:We are your church, Lord;
We are your bride.
We are your church, Lord,
To do with as you please.
Verse 3:We don't belong to ourselves, Lord;
We belong to you.
We don't belong to ourselves, Lord,
So do with us as you please.
Verse 4:We'll obey your voice, Lord;
We'll listen to your call.
We'll obey your voice, Lord,
And do just as you please.
2009 Mike Neifert
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My siblings and I are back for another mom-honoring episode. In this second half of our recent conversation, we honor mom for a second set of attributes and actions which we appreciate. Hope you learn something from our mom as you listen and are reminded of things for which you can thank you mom. Don't forget to tell her how much she's appreciated!
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The Bible commands us to honor mother and father. In this episode, my siblings and I aim to obey God's command by honoring our mom. Our conversation, which is broken into two parts for this podcast, covers a wide range of lessons we learned from the one who gave us all birth. We're happy to sing her praises because she pointed us to the one who is worthy of ultimate praise. Hope you enjoy both parts of our tribute to our mom and that you, in turn, find some way to honor your mom.
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"On Star is never wrong," insisted the lawn care specialist. Except that it was wrong in this case. The treatment he'd just applied to help the green grass grow had been sprayed on the wrong yard. The story of ineptitude writ large told on this episode is a lot of fun. The names of the characters when known are changed. Street addresses are altered as well. I don't want someone going to visit my extremely patient friend to check the facts. I think I've got them straight. I hope you'll laugh. I hope you'll also consider the words I offer at the end. You may think you're taking the right way, but what if you're wrong?
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What better way to start the day than a quiet song of praise accompanied by a softly-strummed ukulele? I can't think of any. Well, maybe if you add in a cup of coffee to sip while listening. That might improve the song and lift the fog of sleep simultaneously. If you need your morning caffeine before functioning, go brew a cup and then sit still in God's presence for a few short minutes and praise him along with me and my uke.
Early Morning Praise Song
Verse 1:
This is my early morning praise song, oh!
I lift my voice to honor you, Lord!
With all my heart, and mind, and strength, and soul;
I sing my love out to you! Ooo!
Chorus:
I will…sing your praise in the morning, Lord!
If the sun shines or it’s gray, hey!
I raise my voice and strum these strings with joy!
And praise you, Lord, throughout this day!
Verse 2:
This is my early morning praise song, oh!
I strum these strings to honor you, Lord!
With every fiber of my being I know;
Your love will see me through this day! Hey!
Verse 3:
This is my early morning praise song, oh!
I clap my hands to honor you, Lord!
With every heartbeat that you give me
I will show the world your love! Oh!
2016 Mike Neifert
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Ever wonder why God gives greater strength to a few men and a handful of women? It's not so they can bulldoze their way through life, bullying and bossing others around. God gives might to these outliers for a much higher calling. Listen to this episode to learn why God, in his sovereignty, gives the gift of power to men and women who will follow his ways.
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There's a fine line between sanity and insanity. I cross that line pretty often in my running. I want to cross it more often in my faith life. Listen to this episode and learn what it means to trust God on the nutty side. (Oh, and happy April Fool's Day a week or two late!)
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Normally the "early morning" story we focus on each Easter is the one about the women going to the tomb and finding the stone rolled away and the angels scaring them and the disciples finding the hole in the rock empty. Jesus shows up a little later and everyone is happy. In this episode, we examine together a different "early morning" story. It's a 2-parter found in John 21. This one is about intimacy with Jesus and about humbling ourselves enough to follow him. Hope you enjoy my words and find yourself celebrating God's good resurrection life!
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The spiritual style song I share today is a reminder of all our savior went through to purchase our salvation. It reminds us over and over of Jesus' suffering as he hung on the cross dying for our sin. Let it's words humble you and cause thanksgiving to well up within you for God's amazing love that made the way for us to become children of God.
Dem Thorns
Verse 1:
Dem thorns be a-hurtin’ my Jesus.
Dem thorns be a-hurtin’ my Lord.
Dem thorns be a-hurtin’ my Jesus.
Dem thorns be a-hurtin’ my Lord.
Verse 2:
Dat whip be a-hurtin’ my Jesus.
Dat whip be a-hurtin’ my Lord.
Dat whip be a-hurtin’ my Jesus.
Dat whip be a-hurtin’ my Lord.
Verse 3:
Dem rods be a-hurtin’ my Jesus.
Dem rods be a-hurtin’ my Lord.
Dem rods be a-hurtin’ my Jesus,
Dem rods be a-hurtin’ my Lord.
Verse 4:
Dem nails be a-hurtin’ my Jesus.
Dem nails be a-hurtin’ my Lord.
Dem nails be a-hurtin’ my Jesus,
Dem nails be a-hurtin’ my Lord.
Verse 5:
Dem taunts be a-hurtin’ my Jesus.
Dem taunts be a-hurtin’ my Lord.
Dem taunts be a-hurtin’ my Jesus.
Dem taunts be a-hurtin’ my Lord.
Verse 6:
Dat spear be a-hurtin’ my Jesus.
Dat spear be a-hurtin’ my Lord.
Dat spear be a-hurtin’ my Jesus.
Dat spear be a-hurtin’ my Lord.
Verse 7:
Nuttin’ more be a-hurtin’ my Jesus,
Nuttin’ more be a-hurtin’ my Lord.
Nuttin’ more be a-hurtin’ my Jesus,
Nuttin’ more be a-hurtin’ my Lord.
2014 Mike Neifert
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Excitement is in the air as the 2021 NCAA basketball tournament moves into its second weekend. Who will win? Who will go home? In this episode, I compare the tension in the air in this season with the electricity in the air as Jesus rode a donkey into Jerusalem a few days before he would go to the cross.
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There are certain "jobs" that are not ours as believers in Jesus. There are others which are ours. At the beginning of Matthew 7, in verses 1 through 5, Jesus talks about judging and reproving, laying out whose job each of these is. One of these is your job as a believer. The other is not. Listen to this episode to find out which is which.
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As we prepare to celebrate St Patrick's Day, this song recalls the holiday's namesake's love for Christ and his recognition of God's closeness. The poem which I put to music is reported to have been engraved on Patrick's shield or breastplate. I hope its words will encourage you.
St Patrick's Song
Verse 1:
Christ be with me, Christ within me,
Christ behind me, Christ before me,
Christ beside me, Christ to win me,
Christ to comfort and restore me.
Verse 2:
Christ beneath me, Christ above me,
Christ in quiet, Christ in danger,
Christ in hearts of all that love me,
Christ in mouth of friend and stranger.
2015 Mike Neifert
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I've been tested multiple times as a school bus driver. As a human being, I've been tested as well, tempted to sin in various ways. In this episode, my 50th, I talk about how to deal with the devil's testing. I hope you will be encouraged and strengthened in your faith.
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The recommendations of others influence us. Our words of praise cause others to take note. What if in the midst of all the negativity in the world we spoke highly of the good things in our lives? Might we affect change?
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I love the blues. The words, the feel, the mood. A few years back, I decided to write a blues song. I wanted the lyrics to pack as big a punch as the music would, so I went looking in the Bible for a bluesy passage. I found it in James 4:7-10. James, Jesus' brother and a leader in the church, uses strong language to call the church to repentance. What could be more blues than grieving over sin? Nothing. The song and James' words call sinners to humility before God.
Grieve, Mourn and Wail
Submit yourselves unto God.
Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.
Come near to God; he’ll come near to you.
Wash your hands, ye sinners, and purify your hearts,
Ye double-minded, grieve, mourn and wail.
Change your laughter to mourning and your joy to gloom.
Humble yourselves, before the Lord,
He will lift you up, yeah, He will lift you up.
2012 Mike Neifert
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"Be careful!" From our earliest days to our last we hear those words from others and coming out of our mouths. Sometimes we're being alerted to relatively minor dangers. Other times our lives are in serious jeopardy! Jesus says these words in Matthew 6:1. What he cautions us against is interesting. It's about doing righteous things to draw attention to ourselves. Is that a low-level warning or a urgent alert? Listen to this episode and find out.
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Psalm 51 is David's plea for mercy song. He wrote it after he'd committed adultery with Bathsheba and had her husband, Uriah, killed to cover up his indiscretion. The king asks God to cleanse him and create in him a pure heart. That is my prayer as well and should be the prayer of every person who knows God. We all have sinned and all need his cleansing. Let the words of David's psalm set to music lead you into our merciful God's presence where you can find joy and gladness.
I Will Be Clean
Chorus:
Cleanse me and I will be clean; Wash me, I’ll be whiter than snow.
Cleanse me and I will be clean;
Wash me as white as the snow.
Verse 1:
Have mercy on me, O God, according to your unfailing love;
Have mercy on me, O God, according to your great compassion.
Blot out my sin! Wash it away!
Cleanse me from every wrong.
Verse 2:
For I know my sins, O God, they are always before me;
For I know my sins, O God, they are against you, you alone.
Let me hear joy! Let me hear gladness!
Create in me a pure heart.
2014 Mike Neifert
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Unless you live under a rock, you've heard Jesus quoted over and over: "Do not judge!" What if Jesus said more than that. He did! In this episode, you'll hear what our savior said immediately after these famous (and often misused) words. You'll learn what kind of judgment you should practice and get an idea of what Jesus was prohibiting.
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Jesus said it: "Apart from me you can do nothing!" (John 15:5) When I was younger, I thought he was mistaken. I could think of dozens of things I assumed I could do without him. In this episode, I tell that story and share a song that agrees with Jesus. You see, I'm older and wiser now. I know for a fact that apart from Jesus, I can do NADA!
Apart from God
Verse 1:
Apart from God you can do.
Apart from God you can do.
Apart from God you can do.
You can do nothing.
Chorus 1:
You can’t do anything.
You can’t do anything.
You can’t do anything without God.
You can’t do anything.
You can’t do anything.
You can’t do anything without God.
Verse 2:
Apart from God you can do.
Apart from God you can do.
Apart from God you can do.
You can do nada.
Verse 3:
Apart from God you can do.
Apart from God you can do.
Apart from God you can do.
You can do zilch.
Verse 4:
With God there is nothing impossible.
With God there is nothing too hard.
With God there is nothing impossible.
He can do anything.
Chorus 2:
He can do anything.
He can do anything.
He can do anything, he’s God.
He can do anything.
He can do anything.
He can do anything, he’s God.
2013 Mike Neifert
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Look around you. You've been given so much. I can spot numerous things in my office and home which friends, family, and even strangers have given me. In this episode, I want to encourage you (and me) to respond to the generosity of others (and God) by giving wildly and joyfully when opportunities arise.
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Imagine a father singing a lullaby quietly to calm his restless infant daughter who struggles to fall asleep after a late night feeding. That's the picture of comfort I get when I hear the words of Zephaniah 3:17.
The Lord your God is with you,
the Mighty Warrior who saves.
He will take great delight in you;
in his love he will no longer rebuke you,
but will rejoice over you with singing.
These words inspired a song about four years ago. My prayer as I sing for you today is that you will experience God's love and give thanks to him.
He Will Take Great Delight In You
The Lord your God is with you,
Mighty is He, the Warrior who saves.
He will take great delight in you;
And will rejoice over you with singing.
He will rejoice.
He will rejoice. He will rejoice. He will rejoice!
2016 Mike Neifert
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Funny story! I was mistaken for Santa Claus recently. Hear the story and my new year's hope for 2021 in this short episode to start the next 12 months off right. You may want what I want in 2021...at least part of what I want!
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Jesus is greater than any of us usually think of him. In Colossians 1:15-20, we find an awe-inspiring description of the King of kings. Reading this passage a few years ago, I found myself worshiping Jesus with a new song. It came together fairly quickly and incorporated ideas from Colossians and a few other passages. I hope it encourages your faith and invites worship of Jesus.
Firstborn Over Creation
Verse 1:
Firstborn over creation, the Son of the invisible God.
He is from the beginning. Through him all things were made.
Things above and below, things both seen and unknown.
Powers and rulers and authorities, all were created by him.
Chorus 1:
Jesus, Jesus, maker of all things.
Jesus, Jesus, maker of all things.
Verse 2:
He is the head of the body, the church for which he died.
Through his willing sacrifice, All who believe are made right.
He made peace through his blood, shed for us on the tree.
By his power remade, we’re all new creations in him.
Chorus 2:
Jesus, Jesus, ruler of the church.
Jesus, Jesus, ruler of the church.
Bridge 1:
The Son of God has set us free from bondage and slavery to sin
He gave his life as a ransom for us we’ll not be bound up again.
Verse 3:
Jesus, the King, resurrected, the firstborn from the grave.
Through him death’s rule has been ended, our enemy’s been put to flight.
He is the Lord over heaven, he is the Lord over hell.
He has supremacy over all things, in him all God’s fullness does dwell.
Chorus 3:
Jesus, Jesus, conqueror of the grave.
Jesus, Jesus, conqueror of the grave.
Bridge 2:
The Son of God has raised us to life, we’ll live eternally.
Our enemy, death, has lost its grip on our hearts, it’s lost its sting.
Ending:
Jesus, Jesus, maker of all things.
Jesus, Jesus, maker of all things,
Ruler of the church, Conqueror of the grave.
2013 Mike Neifert
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"Famous" Christians are walking away from the faith and publicly sharing their deconstruction stories. Less famous Christians overwhelmed by doubts and a multitude of questions are doing the same. In this episode, I ask a few simple questions to those walking away from God. What or who are you rejecting? Who are you listening to? Is truth worth pursuing? I hope you'll give it a listen.
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I seems there are a lot of people worn out by all that's going on around them. They're burned out, stressed, worried, afraid. In Matthew 11:28-30, Jesus invites weary and burdened people to come to him and find rest. About seven years ago, I wrote a song based on the words of our savior, inviting listeners to do as he says, to come to him. I pray you will be encouraged as you hear Jesus' words and the lyrics of my song.
Come to Me
Verse 1:Come to me, you who are weary.
Come to me, with your burdens and your cares.
Come to me, you who are weary,
And I will give you rest.
Take my yoke upon you,
Learn from me, my child.
For my yoke is easy and my burden is light,
You will find rest for your souls,
Rest for your souls.
Verse 2:
For I am gentle, I am meek,
I am humble in heart.
Come to me, you bound and you battered.
You will find rest for your souls,
Rest for your souls.
Verse 3:
All you oppressed, all you imprisoned,
Pitiful, poor, blind, unclothed,
All you unloved, all you rejected,
Come find rest for your souls,
Rest for your souls.
2013 Mike Neifert
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Throughout the Bible God gives warnings and promises to people. He gives them through prophets, angels, Jesus, the disciples. His assurances are meant to bring peace to the godly. His advisories aim to stir up fear in the heart of every sin-loving person. They call forth rejoicing and, if heeded, repentance. This episode fleshes out this idea using words from a popular Christmas song and a word from one of the prophets of old.
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There are things which happen in life for which we are less than thankful. Cars break down. Shirts get stained. Food spoils. What do we do when these things occur? We whine and complain! We have so much and still we mumble about how unfair life is. Thank You for the Things I'm Not Thankful For is my musical attempt to wake myself (and others) up to the truth: I have enough and then some! It is a reminder to each of us that we must, as 1 Thessalonians 5:18 says, "...give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus."
Thank You For the Things I'm Not Thankful For
Verse 1:
Thank you for the things I’m not thankful for
Drafty windows and cold, hard floors
Thank you for the things I’m not thankful for
Broken faucets and squeaky doors.
Lord, I’m thankful, but not enough, for the home I have.
Verse 2:
Thank you for the things I’m not thankful for
Blown out tires and paint that peels.
Thank you for the things I’m not thankful for
Dents in my bumper, fan belts that squeal.
Lord, I’m thankful, but not enough, for the car you give.
Bridge:
So many things you’ve given me
I do not thank you for
Just like an ugly spoiled brat,
I cry and scream for more than I have.
More than I need, I have. More than I need, you give.
Verse 3:
Thank you for the things I’m not thankful for
Milk that’s spoiled and coffee gone cold
Thank you for the things I’m not thankful for
Rotten watermelon and bread with mold.
Lord, I’m thankful, but not enough, for the food I have.
Verse 4:
Thank you for the things I’m not thankful for
Worn out shoes with treadless soles.
Thank you for the things I’m not thankful for
Ugly jackets and shirts with holes.
Lord, I’m thankful, but not enough, for the clothes you give.
2014 Mike Neifert
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Over the past several years, I've been able to take in numerous natural vistas, places of amazing beauty. In this episode, I talk about a few of them and urge listeners to give thanks to the God who created this world for our pleasure. My hope is that all will see God's goodness as they walk through each and every day and that they will give thanks.
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Thanksgiving Day is just around the corner. In my family, my mom will, on that day, ask one simple question of each person gathered around her dining room table: What's one thing you're thankful for? Everyone will answer. Mom's rule! This week as I was reading in the psalms, I ran across a repetitive song of thanksgiving. This psalm, Psalm 136, starts with these words:
Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good.
His love endures forever.
When I read those words and the rest of the psalm, thanksgiving for God's enduring love welled up within me and, grabbing my guitar, I wrote a simple song of thanksgiving for the God whose love endures forever. I share it with you today, hoping it will cause you to give thanks to God for his love.
His Love Endures Forever (Psalm 136)
Verse 1:
Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good.
His love endures forever.
Give thanks to the God above all gods.
His love endures forever.
Chorus 1:
To him who alone does great wonders on the earth
And shows himself in the skies.
Be all glory and honor, praise and thanksgiving
Forever and ever! Amen! Amen!
Verse 2:
Give thanks to the Lord above all lords.
His love endures forever.
Give thanks to the God of heaven and of earth.
His love endures forever.
Chorus 2:
To him who leads his children by the hand
And frees them from their foes.
Be all glory and honor, praise and thanksgiving
Forever and ever! Amen! Amen!
2020 Mike Neifert
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"Whatever you do..." (Colossians 3:17) That's pretty broad, isn't it? In includes all we do in life - the use of our gifts, abilities, talents. It encompasses every word we speak - sermons, lessons, conversations. Listen in as I talk about how God has allowed me to use one specific ability - running - for his glory and the good of others.
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What do you do when you hear a young boy singing, "Get that rattlesnake outta my house," over and over accompanied by an off-key toy guitar? If you're a songwriter, you take his one line and pen a new song. That's the actual story behind the song I share on today's pre-Halloween episode. I hope you enjoy this humorous tale of a church worship service gone wild.
Verse 1:
Walked into church, half in a daze, cuz I’d stayed up late watchin’ sports replays.
Strolled down the aisle, gave my friend a grin, wond’rin’ if our wives would let us out again.
Sat in my pew, kicked up my feet, got myself ready for a good sound sleep.
Verse 2:
When out of the corner of my little eye, what did this crazy ophidiophobiac spy?
It was the object of my very reasonable fear, a great big rattler, its ugly head reared.
I jumped to my feet with a hoot ‘n holler shout, pointed at the usher, yelled, “Get that thing out!”
Chorus:
Get that rattlesnake outta my church!
Get that rattlesnake outta my church!
Get that rattlesnake outta my church!
You gotta get that snake right outta my church!
Verse 3:
Well, I hear there are folks that regularly play with hooded King Cobra’s at church on Sunday.
They carry on and dance the samba while their wild-eyed deacons hand out black mambas.
I tell you if I was lookin’ for a church, I turn right around, continue my search.
Verse 4:
Tell me this, was it not a snake that tempted Adam and Eve, their faith preempted?
The serpent told them, “Just take one bite. You’ll be like God, know wrong from right.”
And that was the start of the mess we’re in, so take that snake out and beat it real thin.
2013 Mike Neifert
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The 2020 presidential election is fast approaching. You probably have a favorite candidate. You probably have a candidate you kind of dislike, too. Few people seem to be apathetic about this year's contest. In this episode, I want to challenge you to pray specifically for one candidate. If that makes you nervous, good. It should. But don't turn away. Listen. I believe you'll choose the politically-motivated prayer I suggest. Win or lose, every person running for the highest office in our land needs God's help. Perhaps you can ask for God's will in a leadership team's lives.
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Last week I got to thinking about worship. I turned to the book of Revelation and found a couple of passages full of God-honoring praise. As I read them, a song came forth. I hope "Amen! Praise and Glory!" will cause you to bow before the One who sits on the throne and before the Lamb! Salvation belongs to our God!
Verse:
Amen! Praise and glory and wisdom and thanks
and honor and power and strength be to our God
forever and ever; forever! Amen!
Chorus:
Salvation belongs to our God,
who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb
Salvation belongs to our God,
who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb
forever and ever; forever! Amen!
Bridge:
To him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb
be praise and honor and glory forever and ever! Amen!
Ending:
Amen! Praise and glory!
Amen! Praise and glory!
Amen! Praise and glory!
Amen! Praise and glory!
forever and ever; forever! Amen!
2020 Mike Neifert
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Someone asked recently, “Can we just go ahead and make 2020 a cuss word?” I’m not one to utter obscenities, but I’m okay with this suggestion. This year has been a rough one. If you haven’t lost your sanity yet, good for you! You must be living right…or trusting entirely in our Lord! I hope it’s both! In case you're struggling, in this episode I share three promises from God to grab a hold of this year and in any trying time. My prayer is that you will be encouraged to face each day as it comes.
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One of the most encouraging passages to me as a pastor is Isaiah 55:9-11. It reads:
“As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts. As the rain and the snow come down from heaven, and do not return to it without watering the earth and making it bud and flourish, so that it yields seed for the sower and bread for the eater, so is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it."
When I read that, I see this truth: God will accomplish all he desires every time I preach. The pressure is off me. He will achieve his purposes through his word.
I was so blessed by the words of this three-verse word from God that I wrote a song based on it a few years ago. I wrote it as a reminder to me to just keep teaching God's word faithfully. I hope it will encourage others who do the same.
Verse 1:
As the heavens are above the earth,
So are my ways higher than your ways.
As the heavens are above the earth,
So are my thoughts higher than your thoughts.
Verse 2:
As the rain and the snow come down
And water all the earth,
So that it produces a harvest,
So is my word from my mouth.
It will not return to me empty,
But will accomplish all I desire.
Verse 3:Let the rain of your word come down.
Water the soil of our spirits.
In our hearts produce a harvest,
By the word from your mouth.
It will not return to you empty,
But will accomplish all you desire.
2014 Mike Neifert
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I witnessed a good deed quietly done the other day. It reminded me of Jesus' words concerning acts of righteousness and how they should be done if you want rewards in heaven. This episode is a good reminder to me (and I hope you) that when there's something amiss, it might be my job to do it when no one's watching.
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Amazed by God's love which he demonstrated by sending Christ to die for us while we were sinners (See Romans 5:6-8), I wrote this song of worship and thanksgiving. I pray that it will draw you to Christ and that you will believe on him for your salvation.
Verse:
At just the right time, when we were powerless,
Christ died for all the ungodly.
While we were still sinners, God reconciled us
To himself through the death of his Son.
Chorus 1:
We were rebels. We were enemies of God.
We were sinners, yet Christ came and died for us.
Though ungodly, we are saved by his blood,
For through Christ’s death, God’s wrath was satisfied.
Oh through Christ’s death, God’s wrath is satisfied.
Bridge:
If I boast, I will boast in God.
If I boast, I will boast in Christ.
If I boast, I will boast in the blood.
If I boast, if I boast, if I boast.
Chorus 2:
I was a rebel. I was an enemy of God.
I was a sinner, yet Christ came and died for me.
Though ungodly, I am saved by his blood,
For through Christ’s death, God’s wrath was satisfied.
Oh through Christ’s death, God’s wrath is satisfied.
Ending:
I was a rebel.
I was an enemy.
I was a sinner.
I was ungodly.
2013 Mike Neifert
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Generally speaking, following the laws of man and the commands of God, leads to a better life. I know there are exceptions, but most of the time, joy rather than sorrow is in the hearts of those who are obedient. The writer of Psalm 112 shouts a hallelujah as he considers God's goodness toward the righteous. He gives thanks for the way God provides and protects. I invite you to hear this song of praise and offer thanks to God along with all who live for him.
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What do you do on a rainy day? I write songs! This one, I wrote years and years ago when my kid were small. Hope you enjoy "Beautiful Day for Ducks" and have a ducky day!
Lyrics
Chorus:
It's a beautiful day for ducks (QUACK!)
A beautiful day for ducks (QUACK! QUACK!)
A beautiful day for ducks and ducklings
It's a beautiful day for ducks (QUACK!)
A beautiful day for ducks (QUACK! QUACK!)
A beautiful day for ducks and ducklings
Verse:
When it's raining outside and you have to stay indoors
All the little bitty ducks come out by threes and fours
They paddle all around in the puddles and the ponds
And this is their little duckling song
1996 Mike Neifert
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Everywhere we go, around every corner, ENEMIES! Or so we think. But what if those we think are enemies aren't enemies at all? What if we're mistaken about this whole enemy thing? In this episode, I urge every listener to consider what Jesus and Paul say about enemies - who they are and how Jesus-followers treat their foes.
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What does your evening look like? How do you spend the hours after work is done? Do you sit and watch movies, read a book, play games, iron your clothes for the next day? I hope what you do brings joy to your life and peace to your soul. We all need those things! I hope your nighttime schedule allows time for praising God, thanking him, acknowledging his goodness shown to you throughout the day. This week’s episode offers up a song which I hope will create a sense of God’s presence and peace as you close out your day. Evening Praise was written with that aim in mind. Listen as you prepare to rest or as you face a new day needed comfort or strength. Whenever you listen, find your all in all in the God of all Comfort.
Lyrics:
When evening comes, we will sing.
When evening comes, we will sing.
We will sing songs of joy, of love and of light.
When evening comes, we will sing.
When evening falls, we will raise.
When evening falls, we will raise.
We will raise our holy hands and shout aloud our praise.
When evening falls, we will raise.
When evening calms, we will say.
When evening calms, we will say.
We will say the Lord has brought us through this day.
When evening calms, we will say.
When evening fades, we will rest.
When evening fades, we will rest.
We will rest in our God, may his name be ever blessed.
When evening fades, we will rest.
2013 Mike Neifert
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Sometimes I think it would be nice to get a weekly "coming soon" report? Can you imagine the ad revenue YouTube could bring in from a channel that told each of us what's next? Such a thing doesn't exist. (Probably wouldn't be good if it did.) So trusting God and submitting our plans to him is the way forward. This week's episode encourages you to do just that. Listen and then...follow God with great faith!
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Like eating a good breakfast, pondering the goodness of God early in the morning gives strength for the day. In this episode, I share with you a song that uses Scripture to honor God for his grace, his mercy which is new every morning. It acknowledges his sustaining love and our need for his presence in each new day. My prayer is that you will be encouraged as you listen. (Scripture references: Psalm 90:14; Isaiah 33:2; Lamentations 3:22-23; 2 Corinthians 12:9)
Lyrics
Satisfy us, Lord, in the morning; Satisfy us with unfailing love.
Satisfy us, Lord, in the morning; Satisfy us with unfailing love.
That we may sing for joy; that we may be glad always.
O Lord, be gracious to us; We long for your mercy.
O Lord, be gracious to us; We long for your grace.
Be our strength every morning.
Be our strength every day.
Your mercies are new every morning.
Your grace is sufficient for each day.
Your mercies are new every morning.
Your grace is sufficient for each day.
2013 Mike Neifert
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"What if I'm wrong?" I think we ought to ask that question more often than we think we need to. It is foolish to think we're always right. Titus 3:9-11 suggests something else that's foolish. On this week's episode I talk about that and suggest away to avoid foolishness. It starts with acknowledging that others could be right, but goes beyond that.
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I have a friend who loves the ancient prayers written by the saints of old. He's always introducing me and other pastors to them when he leads retreats. About three years ago, after attending a get-away at which he facilitated prayer times, I sought out prayers from centuries ago to put to music. One of the first I ran across was a prayer of Columba, a man from Ireland, who opened monasteries all over Ireland to train evangelists who would spread the good news all across Europe. The prayer I offer up musically today expresses this saint's confidence in God come what may in life. My prayer is that as you listen, you will grow in your faith.
Alone With None But Thee
Alone with none but Thee, my God, I journey on my way.
What need I fear, when Thou art near O King of night and day?
More safe am I within Thy hand than if a host round me did stand.
Alone with none but Thee, my God, I journey on my way.
2017 Mike Neifert (Adapted from the prayer of Columba (521-597 A.D.)
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You're not much of a risk taker, right? Or are you? Are you the stay at home on the couch type or the let's go hang gliding this weekend type? Whatever level of danger you're okay with, there is a behavior that is by far more dangerous than any other action you might take. It has to do with God and his commands. Do you obey him or do you not? Take a listen as I talk about a story from the end of Jesus' Sermon on the Mount and a few verses from an early chapter in the book of Amos. God's call to obedience is clear in both.
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I read a poem on Facebook on August 9, 2017. I love it and wrote a song using the words. Then I decided to find out from the friend who posted it where she got it since she hadn't given an author's name. Did she write it? Did some famous poet pen the words? The answer she gave blew me away. The words were from Johnny Hart's B.C. comic strip. Wiley, that prehistoric philosopher, spoke them in a strip published on Sunday, September 29, 2002. Fifteen years later, posted on Facebook anonymously, they inspired praise to God.
He Is There
When no one seems to love you and trouble’s everywhere;
When skies turn dark above you and joy turns to despair;
When everything just falls apart and no one seems to care;
Just look down deep inside your heart and know your God is there…He is there!
He is there and he loves you when trouble’s everywhere.
He is there and he loves you in darkness and despair.
He is there and he loves you when no one seems to care.
Just look down deep inside your heart and know your God is there.
2017 Mike Neifert (Adapted from Johnny Hart’s B.C. Comic – Sunday, September 29, 2002)
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My siblings and I decided to obey God's command to honor our father by putting together a special two-part podcast. This second session features my brother, Jon's, and my responses to the question: What did you learn from dad? I hope that our words will encourage you to thank your dad for his goodness to you. I hope, also, that you will commit yourself to God and follow him as our dad did. He was a great example.
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Psalm 139 is one of my favorites. I love the intimate relationship with God that David reveals in the deeply personal words of this song. I imagine the king sitting under a tree on a starry night, singing to the lover of his soul. At the end of the psalm is a prayer that I find engaging. It asks God very simply to reveal to the writer the truth of his position before God. It invites God to search the writer's heart, to know his soul, and to point out anything that's offensive to God. The implication is that the singer is ready, even eager, to make any changes that would lead to an even more intimate relationship with God. He wants no hindrances. It was the deeply personal touch that led me to put to music these two verses and add my own intimate expression of commitment to God a few years ago. "Walk in Your Ways" is truly my prayer to God. I want to know him and be known by him. I want to be rid of all that offends him so we can be closer today than we were yesterday or the day before or the day before that. God bless you as you listen.
Walk in Your Ways
Search me, O God, and know my heart,
Test me and know my anxious thoughts.
See if there be any offensive way in me
And lead me in the way everlasting.
I will walk in your ways all of my days,
I will trust in your heart for you are good.
Lord, I choose again today to give my life away
And to walk in your way everlasting.
2013 Mike Neifert
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My siblings and I decided to obey God's command to honor our father by putting together a special two-part podcast. This first session features my sister, Pam's, and my youngest brother, Patrick's, responses to the question: What did you learn from dad? I hope that their words will encourage you to thank your dad for his goodness to you. I hope, also, that you will commit yourself to God and follow him as our dad did. He was a great example.
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Seven or so years ago, I was surprised by God’s overwhelming presence as I read the story of his coming to his people on Mt Sinai to enter into a covenant with them. As he prepared to give them the ten commandments, the people trembled before him. His power was on full display. When I finished reading the story, I sat in stunned silence and then, after a pregnant pause, I wrote a song encouraging God’s people to fear him and obey. I share that song with you in this episode.
FEAR THE LORD
Verse 1:
Morning breaks, the Lord is coming,
The heart of every man begins to quake.
Prepared and watching, the people wait,
To hear the voice of the Holy One, their God.
Chorus:
Fear the Lord, all his people!
Stand in awe of him, revere his name!
Fear the Lord, all his people!
Bow before his holy throne.
Fear the Lord!
Verse 2:
Mountains tremble, thunder rolls,
The ground beneath God’s people starts to shake.
Dark smoke rises, the Lord descends,
The sound of the trumpet grows and grows!
Bridge:
The fear of the Lord; the beginning of wisdom.
The fear of the Lord; the beginning of wisdom.
The fear of the Lord; the beginning of wisdom.
The fear of the Lord!
2013 Mike Neifert
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My medical training sometimes makes me understand things differently than others mean them. Take the term unresponsive. That word makes the heart of an EMT race, while it just causes irritation or concern for those in the non-medical community. In this episode, I examine an arena in life where I'm trying to be more unresponsive so as to maintain peace with friends and family. I'm doing so with varying degrees of success. Listen and see if you can learn how be be more unresponsive in life and find joy rather than stress.
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At a 2017 spiritual retreat in the mountains of Colorado, I ran across a prayer written by Dimitri of Rostov (1651-1709). The words moved me to write the song I share with you today. My hope is that you will find yourself inviting God to rule in your life as you listen.
Lyrics:
Come, my Light, and illumine my darkness.
Come, my Life, and revive me from death.
Come, my Physician, and heal all my wounds and diseases.
Come, Flame of divine love, and burn up the thorns of my sins.
Come, Flame of divine love, kindle a blaze in my heart, Holy Spirit.
Burn with a fiery passion, ignite the fire of your love.
Come, my King, sit upon the throne of my heart and reign there.
For you alone are my king and you alone are my Lord.
2017 Mike Neifert
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How do those around you know that you're a believer? They can't tell by your church attendance. You've been watching from home! What is it then that says loud and clear, "I'm with Jesus!"? Jesus told his disciples how people would know they were his. Maybe it's time you and I reviewed his words and put them into practice.
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I love singing hymns. Some my favorite songs of all time were written hundreds of years ago. To be clear, I love new songs too. Any song that exalts Jesus and helps the church worship God in spirit and in truth is okay by me. A few years back, I wrote a new melody line and added a bridge to a beloved hymn, My Jesus, I Love Thee. The resulting song, Love You Now, is featured in this episode. Hope it encourages you and causes you to worship.
Love You Now
Words by Adoniram Judson Gordon, William Ralph Featherstone, and Mike Neifert
Music by Mike Neifert
Verse1:
Jesus, I love You, I know You are mine;
For You all the follies of sin I resign;
My gracious Redeemer, my Savior, You are!
I love You! Love you now. I love you! Love you now.
Verse 2:
Jesus, I love You, because You loved me,
You purchased my pardon on Calvary’s tree;
I love You for wearing the thorns on Your brow;
I love You! Love you now. I love you! Love you now.
Bridge 1:
For the life you lived, the life you gave, I love you.
For the life you live, the life you give, I love you, Jesus.
Love you now.
Verse 3:
Jesus, I love You, in life and in death.
I’ll keep on praising with every breath;
And say when the death dew lies cold on my brow,
I love You! Love you now. I love you! Love you now. Verse 4:
Jesus, I’ll love You, with endless delight,
I’ll ever adore You in heaven so bright;
I’ll sing with the glittering crown on my brow,
I love You! Love you now. I love you! Love you now.
Bridge 2 and Ending:
For the life you lived, the life you gave, I love you.
For the life you live, the life you give, I love you.
For the life you lived, the life you gave, I love you.
For the life you live, the life you give, I love you, Jesus.
Love You now. I love You! Love you now.
I love You! Love you now. I love you! Love you now.
2013 Mike Neifert
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Jesus spoke about the end times with his disciples so that they would be ready for his return and aware of what those times would be like. He also made sure they knew how to live in light of his second coming.
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After my previous episode, I knew exactly which song I wanted to share with you. This one is based on Romans 7:14-15; 19; 24-25. I encourage you to read the chapter in its entirety before you listen. In it you'll find Paul's heart-felt testimony of the struggle between the flesh and the Spirit. He also shares with his readers the source of his victory over sin!
Lyrics:
Chorus:
I am unspiritual, sold as a slave to sin.
The good I want to do is not what I’m doing.
I am unspiritual, sold as a slave to sin.
It's what I hate I do. It's what I hate I do.
Verse 1:
I hate the greed in me. I hate my gluttony.
I hate the way I that seek my own way.
I hate the lust in me, my mind's adultery.
I hate the way I that seek my own way always.
Verse 2:
I hate the lies I speak, my heart's dishonesty.
I hate the way I that seek my own way.
I hate the jealousy, so much a part of me.
I hate the way I that seek my own way always.
Verse 3:
Who can rescue me from the sin in me?
Who can set me free from all that binds me?
I want the victory that has been promised me
Through Christ the conquering King of glory
Verse 4:
Christ has rescued me, from the sin in me.
He came and set me free from all that binds me.
I have the victory, all that is promised me
Through Christ the conquering King of glory
2017 Mike Neifert
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Jesus, in his Sermon on the Mount, tells his followers that unless their righteousness surpasses that of the Pharisees they cannot enter the kingdom of heaven. I read those words recently and pondered these two questions:
1) What is the righteousness of the Pharisees?
2) How do I exceed it?
In this episode, I note how Jesus answered both those questions immediately after warning those who would hear that they needed a Pharisee-exceeding righteousness.
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As my podcast info says, I'm an avid runner. Some would say I"m a bit crazy when it comes to this past time! I embrace that as a member of the Idiots Running Club - I'm Idiot #20! In this "Monday Music" episode, talk briefly about my running obsession and offer up "Idiots Running", a song I wrote about the IRC back in 2013. I present it for your listening pleasure. Idiots Running Club Facebook: www.facebook.com/groups/tinotridemosbur Idiots Running Song on YouTube: www.youtube.com/watch?v=e4E7j7f8wG4&t=15s Idiots Running Song on SoundCloud: soundcloud.com/mike-neifert/idiots-running Lyrics: Verse 1: Idiots running here and there, to and fro without a care. Run ten miles to who knows where and then they run some more. Idiots run a mile or two before they stop to tie their shoe. Don’t care if they trip, you know it’s true. They’ll get up and run some more. Chorus: Spin around once, spit on the ground! Spin around twice, spit on the ground! Spin around thrice, spit on the ground! You’re in! Verse 2: Idiots run a 100K, on a path down by the bay, Do it in a half a day, and the next they run some more. Idiots running down the street, smiling at the folks they meet, Eating Oreos, oh, so sweet to help them run some more. Bridge: Smile. Drink water. Don’t die. You’re in! Verse 3: Idiots running in a skirt, wear high heels, oh, my they hurt! If they stumble, they’ll rub some dirt and then they’ll run some more. Idiots running on the trails, up and down and through the vales. Run too far lose five toenails, before they run some more. Verse 4: Idiots running in a funk, getting hit by an angry skunk! They smelled real bad and you’d have thunk that they’d not run some more. Idiots running on and on, past midnight and on till dawn. Lacking sleep, they start to yawn, and still they run some more. ©2013 Mike Neifert
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For years I struggled to overcome a habit. I prayed and tried, but I couldn't get free. I finally found freedom when I learned how to pray and do one more important thing. Learn how God and a few trusted friends help me find freedom. I believe God wants freedom for you too! Listen and then follow God's direction! As promised, a link to the Celebrate Recovery ministry locator: https://locator.crgroups.info
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God loves those who are afraid, who are struggling, who are not at peace. I offer Scripture and an original song (see lyrics below) to you in this episode, inviting you to choose peace in the midst of trouble.
I Choose
Verse 1:
I choose peace when war rages ‘round me.
I choose faith when no one else believes, God.
I choose rest when my life is filled with chaos.
I choose peace. I choose faith. I choose rest.
Verse 2:
I choose hope when I can’t see the path, Lord.
I choose joy when darkness surrounds me.
I choose trust when my heart is filled with fear.
I choose hope. I choose joy. I choose trust.
Verse 3:
I choose love though I’m wounded and broken.
I choose grace when you offer it freely.
I choose life because you’ve conquered the grave.
I choose love. I choose grace. I choose life.
Ending:
I choose peace. I choose faith. I choose rest. I choose hope. I choose joy. I choose trust.
I choose love. I choose grace. I choose life.
2013 Mike Neifert
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Have you said stuff you regretted the moment it was out of your mouth? Oh, my, have I ever! Ever done dumb stuff you wish you hadn't? You know I have. Sometimes my mistakes have made my friends laugh. Sometimes they've hurt folks I love. In this episode of the PocketNeif podcast, my first ever, I invite you to hear Jesus' words on what you and I are to do when our words or actions damage relationships. (Matthew 5:21-24; 2 Corinthians 12:18)
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