Word in Motion: Recent Episodes
Nathan Palatsky
From James 1:23, this is a few minutes, looking at God’s word like a mirror, seeing something obvious and making a change.
My guest this week is a sergeant in the North Dakota Highway Patrol. And we talk justice and we talk teamwork, but the thread that connects our whole conversation is compassion and empathy. Notice Sgt. Brown talk compassion for his coworkers, but also for the criminals and victims that he interacts with on a daily basis. This has been a common thread in these conversations - showing Christ through caring for people. So pay attention to that. I'd also invite you to share this episode with someone who you think would get something out of it if you did. I learned a lot and I think you will too. RECOMMENDATION CORNER - I don't have enough FAITH to be an ATHEIST w/ Dr. Frank Turek... https://open.spotify.com/show/33MgzSFOheNQ8BnxMGbDOv?si=e96ae6c09bcc4d0c Also find Holy Hypocrites on... YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/@HolyHypocritesSPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/4LWK5TNCgtBA2Z4ZG7jc5w?si=cd90104879a842e6SUBSTACK: https://nathanpalatsky.substack.com/
So far we've talked about mental and physical health, we've talked finances and education, and my guest today works in all of those fields at once, day in and day out.
People like Chauncey work longer hours for less pay, they take less breaks and holidays, they pour more energy, emotion, and time in for less recognition.
They carry more Biblical responsibility than any of us. She had a lot to teach us about juggling life and people about responsibility and especially rest and finding those rhythms in a chaotic life.
Chauncey is a stay-at-home mom and I learned a lot. I think you will too!
Also find Holy Hypocrites on... YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/@HolyHypocritesSPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/4LWK5TNCgtBA2Z4ZG7jc5w?si=cd90104879a842e6SUBSTACK: https://nathanpalatsky.substack.com/
Dr. Ross Pacini is a cardiologist practicing in and around Lincoln, Nebraska.
We talked about the intersection of knowledge and humility, and the importance of both for an excellent doctor. Dr. Pacini shared how he demonstrates his faith into interactions with both patients and coworkers - like several others in this series, needing to SHOW Christ much more often than he is able to SHARE Christ.
The real highlight of our conversation centered around the relationship between science and religion.
I really enjoyed this conversation and I think you will too!
Also find Holy Hypocrites on...
YOUTUBE
SPOTIFY
SUBSTACK
Steve Britsch is an accountant and business owner - as well as a Christ-follower. He has deftly navigated the complicated world of doing taxes with ethics and integrity for decades and brought a truckload of hard-earned wisdom to this conversation.
We covered ambition and humility. Work ethic and passion. Steve unpacked what it's like talking people through some of their most uncomfortable secrets and most heartbreaking realities. Finances are hard and awkward and Steve has a lot to teach us about compassion and grace, without compromise.
I learned a lot, and I think you will too.
- RECOMMENDATION CORNER: At the end, Steve recommended a book, "How to Lead by the Book" by Dave Anderson
Also find Holy Hypocrites on...
YOUTUBE
SPOTIFY
SUBSTACK
Ian Tjelta is an Army officer, and a helicopter pilot in training, not to mention a father, husband and a young man who is desperate to do all of those things to the glory of God. We talked in depth about being a Christian in the military, and how Ian tries to set an example, to shine a light in that environment. We also talked about God's sovereignty in view of war, life and death. What is and isn't in our control as we strive to honor God with our skills.And finally, as I said in the intro, don't miss the last few minutes. Ian brought some thoughts to our conversation that I didn't even think to ask about, and it's probably the best few minutes of the episode!YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/@UCdiTetReACMcr5hkR5AbN1A SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/4LWK5TNCgtBA2Z4ZG7jc5w?si=0da1c718d7b04c6eSUBSTACK: https://nathanpalatsky.substack.com/
Dr. Kim Boyce has spent his career revolutionizing the practice human services with - of all things - humanity, dignity, Christ-centered value based on a person simply bearing the image of God.
Our conversation moves from his origins, crafting his philosophy towards human services and moves into the relationship between psychology and theology - how does our view of God change our view of people?
We covered what separates the great people in human services, those who make a real difference, and what separates the Christians in that space. And we concluded with a generous critique of the church today - especially the Western church today - and the prevalence of division and legalistic tearing down of each other and outsiders.
I learned a lot. I hope you do too.
✍️ https://nathanpalatsky.substack.com/
🎙️ https://open.spotify.com/show/4LWK5TNCgtBA2Z4ZG7jc5w?si=94b103d39d704fe2
Ryan is a teacher in California. Education is not a particularly God-friendly landscape at the moment, nor is California. So, how does he manage to show Christ when he usually can't share Christ?
Ryan takes us to Luke 6 - "A disciple is not above his teacher, but everyone when he is fully trained will be like his teacher." - and we talk about the value of mistakes in the process of both knowing and helping others come to know Jesus.
Hope you enjoy this first, sample episode.
For more like this, you can read my newsletter/blog at The Witness of Wrestling (link below) and subscribe to the podcast on Spotify, Apple or wherever you get your podcasts.
Thanks!
✍️ https://nathanpalatsky.substack.com/
🎙️ https://open.spotify.com/show/4LWK5TNCgtBA2Z4ZG7jc5w?si=94b103d39d704fe2
I've already had a number of powerful interviews with Christian professionals talking about glorifying God day-to-day in secular careers. Already, some common themes are recurring across seemingly unrelated fields...
I'm excited to share this sneak peek ahead of the first full episode dropping next week!
Wanted to share a quick updated. Several episodes are recorded and being edited. Make sure you're subscribed to get notified when new episodes are published! 🎥 YouTube.com/@HolyHypocrites ✍️ nathanpalatsky.substack.com 🎙️ Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/4LWK5TNCgtBA2Z4ZG7jc5w?si=ac054575718f474c 🍎 Apple - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/holy-hypocrites/id1483124915
Hi, I'm Nathan Palatsky and this is Holy Hypocrites. 1 Corinthians 10 says, "'Therefore, whether you eat or drink "'or whatsoever you do, do it to the glory of God.'"
But what does that mean if you're not a pastor or a full-time missionary? How do you do that day to day in the real world? That's where we're headed. Thanks for joining us. I'd invite you to subscribe on Apple or Spotify, wherever you get your podcasts.
📝 https://nathanpalatsky.substack.com
🎙️https://open.spotify.com/show/4LWK5TNCgtBA2Z4ZG7jc5w?si=10ede1e4c0154677
Psalm 42. As we conclude season 3 of Word in Motion, I think Paul would “yes and amen” this sentiment from the Psalmist, my soul thirsts for God. Why are you cast down, verse 5, hope in God. Why are you cast down, verse 11, hope in God.
Season Wrap-up. Paul, I count EVERYTHING as loss for the sake of knowing Christ. Also Paul, to live is Christ and to die is gain. Also Paul, it is no longer I who live but Christ lives in me.
Philippians 4:21-23. Who are you celebrating with? When was the last time you greeted a brother or sister IN CHRIST? When was the last time a conversation with another Christian was just ABOUT Christ? What would that look like?
Phil. 4:10-20. I can do all things in Christ. It doesn't mean I can do all things I WANT to do… doesn't mean I can suddenly pass a test I didn't study for, or win a game I didn't practice for… But I can be content, I can even rejoice in my place, “He is the secret.”
Philippians 4:1-9. Remember how the book started, Paul is certain that he who began this work… NOT that the disciples will eventually achieve perfection, not that they will arrive with enough practice… but that he who began the work will complete it.
Psalm 41. Ever read Psalms as a running part of your devotion time? As the weeks without singing together went on, I realized that by reading and really engaging with the Psalms, I was worshiping right along with the Psalmist.
Philippians 3:12-21. Future tense. but I press on to make it my own, because Christ Jesus has made me his own… past tense. He has done his job. I’m already his own. I dont press on to earn being his, but I am his, so I press on to own that… to live like what I am.
Philippians 3:1-11. But whatever gain I had, I counted as loss for the sake of Christ… and specifically the surpassing worth of knowing Christ… For his sake I have suffered the loss of all things and count them as rubbish… to what point and purpose?
Philippians 2:19-30. Today’s passage seems a little out of the way, but I wanted to point something out that we have been talking about with students a lot lately… that Christians were designed to thrive in groups.
Philippians 2:12-18. Work out… for it is God who works… like dad telling his kid to pedal the bike, even while he holds the seat for balance and pushes it forward. The kid may just sit there, frozen and move forward, but to truly grow, and thrive, the child must still work.
Psalm 40. Notice, there’s no promise here of deliverance from every single trial. Notice what God does give, a new song of praise to God. Verse 11, mercy, steadfast love, and faithfulness…
Philippians 2:1-11. Jesus said in Matthew 22, the greatest commandments, love the Lord your God first, and love your neighbor as yourself second. These are the brick and mortar commands, as I like to think of it... And Paul echoes that in these verses.
Philippians 1:18-30. One line in today’s passage summarizes Paul’s entire existence… What have we learned this season, from Galatians and Ephesians? I have been crucified with Christ, it is no longer I who live but Christ lives in me? So, what does that new life look like?
Philippians 1:12-18. If you were praying for someone, and trying to find a chance to share Jesus with them, and someone else did before you… would you be happy? Did Paul suffer for his own glory?
Philippians 1:1-11. And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ...
Psalm 39. My hope is in you, Lord. When we consider that, it takes such a weight off. Our lives aren’t hinging on our own aptitude, our own success or failure. If you WANT a challenge for weekend, commit Psalm 39:7 to memory. Cherish it and let is lighten your load. As we like to say in our youth group, he's G-O-T-C-H-U… He’s GOTCHU. And that’s wonderful.
Ephesians 6:10-24. Today we conclude the book of Ephesians, and the tone here is urgent. I dont think I have taken this passage seriously enough in the past… but Paul is not using war terminology lightly.
Ephesians 6:1-9. What if we treated every interaction as if it was with Christ? How would you treat your son or daughter differently? How would you treat your mom or dad differently? How about your boss or your employee? People society expects us to disrespect, people society ALLOWS us to disrespect… What if it was Christ?
Ephesians 5:22-33. Paul says in verse 30, we are members of his body, Christ’s body. For all of us, married or single, let’s stop fighting over our own little corner of control. Let’s stop being eyes trying to hear or noses trying to see. Let’s embrace the roles God created and equipped us for, and celebrate how he made us all to fit together for his glory and the spread of the gospel.
Ephesians 5:1-21. In Christ, we find the color we want to be… and the rest of our lives as his disciples should be spent holding up different things against what scripture tells us about Christ, and whittling down what matches.
Psalm 38. Simple. You need God. I need God. We need God for every single thing… Don’t mourn that fact but celebrate who God is, that he does provide, and instead of banging on the doors he has closed, look forward to the doors he is opening for you this very week…
Ephesians 4:25-32. When we realize its all for God’s glory, and we aren’t fighting for every scrap of glory for ourselves, then we can live honestly, and build others up. We first needed grace and forgiveness and tenderness, and the very one we rejected and disobeyed with our sin, he gave freely.
Ephesians 4:17-24. What sets you apart from the world? How are we reflecting the world, with its sensuality, greed, and impurity… or how are we reflecting Christ?
Ephesians 4:7-16. Let me say this clearly. The mission you have been given as a follower of Jesus - to go and make disciples - have been fully planned and supplied by God. So any success we have is not to our credit. It’s not because we are awesome, and God wants to use us because of what we can do but what he can do through us.
Ephesians 4:1-6. You were called into fellowship with Christ… that’s permanent, eternal calling, regardless of jobs that come and go, relationships that come and go, money, possessions that come and go… How do you walk in that?
Psalm 37. Easier said than done, but trust and wait. I think of the disciples in the boat during the storm, and Jesus was sleeping, and their panic as they woke him with “dont you care that we are perishing?!?!” He cares. He knows, he delivers and he saves…
Ephesians 3:14-21. On Tuesday, I asked you to pick a person and start praying for them intentionally. Did you do that? Because today, we take it up a notch. I challenge you to pray these verse over that person.
Ephesians 3:1-13. God’s grace was a gift. Paul’s preaching even is a gift of grace, from God. As he says in 11, this is all according to God’s purpose, realized in Christ Jesus…
Ephesians 2:11-22. Remember, you were once separated, alienated as Paul says, cut off from God. And by no action of yours, you were given the opportunity to know him…
Off Topic. GO OUTSIDE! Maybe just a walk around the block. Maybe just put a chair in the back yard, or walk to the grocery store if you can. Find an excuse! In many places, March-April is the absolute perfect time to go outside and witness evidence of the creator in his creation!
Psalm 36. Webster’s dictionary defines “steadfast” as resolutely or dutifully firm and unwavering. In other words, the God who is the same yesterday, today and forever, the Lord who never changes and will stand forever, apparently his love fits those same characteristics.
Ephesians 2:1-10. This is one of the most important passages Paul ever wrote, in my humble opinion. Paul comes back to the core of the gospel message many times, but in my time studying, never more clearly or mind-blowingly stated than it is here.
Ephesians 1:15-23. So if the church is a work of God, then Paul can be thankful even in their current unfinished state, and he can join them in prayer for increasing completion. So we can be thankful for the work God is doing in you, and every other believer around you. We can root for each other and pray for each other.
Ephesians 1:1-14. If you read Paul talking about “to live is (by definition) Christ and to die is gain” and you ask “why,” well, Paul’s letters are filled with the answer. It’s right here. He has done all the work, Paul tells the Romans that while we were yet sinners Christ died for us.
Galatians 6:11-18. Closing Paul's letter to the Galatians, he says, "But far be it from me to boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world."
Psalm 34. Our God is also our Father. He sees and hears and knows everything… I like to say when God says yes he is providing for us out of infinite grace and love and when he says no he is protecting us out of infinite grace and love.
Gal 6:1-10. Paul picks up in chapter six, right where he left off in chapter five. Remember the last couple days. 5:1, For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery. Verse 13, For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.
Gal 5:16-26. Jesus said in Matthew 6, no one can serve two masters. You can’t serve the world and Christ, because one says its all about you and the other says it all about Him. And Paul says here in Galatians 5, the fruits, the results of serving the flesh are exactly opposed to the results of serving the Spirit.
Gal 5:1-15. What matters? How about this… You have been set free to love and serve others.
Gal 4:21-31. Paul is repetitive on purpose. As we’ve already seen in Galatians, if you are under the law, its already over. Because to be saved by the law, you have to be completely in every way perfect. That’s the bar under the law. But you, he says in verse 28, you are children of promise!
Psalm 33. In this time of uncertainty, some fear and instability around us… Please remind yourself who God is, what he is capable of and what his feelings are for his children. His word is upright. His work is faithful. His council stands forever. His eyes are on his children…
Galatians 4:8-20. Remember the Pharisees, the legalist religious leaders used the law as a source of pride. You are fundamentally different creatures. Paul pleads with the church.
Galatians 4:1-7. Notice the trend? We were children, slaves to the world… But God sent his son.. Through him, God redeemed… so that we might receive adoption as sons. And God sent the Spirit. So instead of being slaves, we are sons and daughters and as sons and daughters, then heirs.
Galatians 3:15-29. If we could EARN life, then we would not need God. We would pay out enough obedience to pay for eternal life. Many other faiths operate this way, where God is almost just the cashier… he scans your salvation, ensures you pay the right amount and you might never even know his name.
Galatians 3:1-14. Now it is EVIDENT - clear, obvious - that no one is justified before God by the law… you cant EARN it... But “The righteous shall live by faith.” THIS IS BIG, AMAZING NEWS! We need to be shouting it from rooftops.
Psalm 32. Bask in that truth this weekend. If you have confessed your sin, if you have surrendered it to God, it’s forgiven and clean and gone as far as the east is from the west. You are a child of God. Period. Forever.
Galatians 2:11-21. "I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me." I'm a fundamentally NEW PERSON! Paul says to the Corinthians, If anyone is in Christ, he is a NEW CREATION, old has passed away behold new has come! Scientists would say “on a molecular level,” well on a SOUL LEVEL, you are a NEW CREATION in God’s eyes…
Galatians 2:1-10. For years, I didnt own a pocket knife. And I dont remember more than once or twice where I wished I had one and missed a chance to cut something. But wouldn’t you know, as soon as I bought one and sharpened it, suddenly I was surrounded by opportunities to use it… If you know the gospel, and you have it in your toolbox, I bet you find opportunities, open doors to use it.
Galatians 1:11-24. "“He who used to persecute us is now preaching the faith he once tried to destroy.” And they glorified God because of me." What change has God brought about in your life? And who are you telling about it?
Galatians 1:1-10. "If anyone is preaching to you a gospel contrary to the one you received, let him be accursed." Jesus told his followers no one can serve two masters. We have a choice as his disciples to follow him and preach his gospel, or not. There is no in-between.
Psalm 31. Verse 14, "But I trust in you, O Lord; I say, “You are my God.” My times are in your hand; rescue me from the hand of my enemies and from my persecutors!
John 20:19-23. He comes through locked doors and his first words are “peace be with you,” and his next words are, “peace be with you,” and his next act is to send them out. Peace, not as the end of something, but as the beginning.
John 16:25-33. In this world, you will have trouble... Be of good cheer, not because all the conflict is taken out of your life, but because any conflict of this world can’t even touch my peace.
John 14:27-31. The world's peace and prosperity is temporary. But if your peace is in Jesus Christ, the son of God, risen from the dead and seated at the right hand of the Father, your peace is untouchable, unshakeable and eternal.
Philippians 3:12-21. It's okay to struggle. It's okay to fall. It's okay that following Jesus is hard a lot of the time! We live in a world built to pull us away from Christ. But the goal is worth the struggle. Press on!
Psalm 30. We sabbath in the Psalms. As we remember who God is, we find joy in the midst of suffering, trials or loneliness.
Mark 5:25:34. Twelve years. How long have you lived with your conflict? How long since you gave up hoping for peace, or looking for peace despite the conflict? Reminder: Jesus is not the source of things that bring us peace. He is our peace. Changing perspective can change everything.
Mark 4:35-41. Who is this that even the wind and the waves obey him? Now THAT is the right question...
Luke 1:67-79. Jesus didn't come to lead us away from hardships. His peace is not the kind that avoids conflict. Rather, the peace Jesus brought was peace in spite of conflict. Psalm 23, the good shepherd doesn't lead his flock away from death, but through it because they are safe with him.
Luke 2:8-14. Let me give you my working definition, and it’s incomplete and imperfect. Whole series of books have been written to define peace. But for sake of something we can bite down on for the next few weeks, peace is the lack of conflict.
Psalm 28. Power can be terrifying or brilliant. Passages like this, or Genesis 1 or Job 38 can be terrifying without understanding who God is, and what his relationship is to us. But in that context, these are sources of tremendous peace and rest for this Sabbath in the Psalms.
John 14:15-31. Three waves of reasons to NOT be afraid. Jesus is leaving the disciples soon. He has been their counter to fear so far, so how can they NOT be afraid without him? He gives three reasons they do not need to fear in his apparent absence.
Matthew 28:1-10. If Jesus is the counter to fear, and he died, Jesus as a story, as someone who lived a long time ago and said and did cool stuff doesn't do anything for my fear right here and now. But Jesus, risen from the dead, alive TODAY, with me TODAY, loving me TODAY… if I think about it, that counters my fear TODAY…
Matthew 17:1-8. Sometimes Jesus told his followers not to fear, and he gave them reasons. Other times, like today’s passage, he showed them something and told them not fear as a result. Today, some of Jesus’ disciples see a glimpse of his glory, and the level Jesus really belongs on… That glimpse behind the curtain then is concluded with, “rise and have no fear.”
Matthew 14:22-27. What happens when faith overcomes fear? People walk on water. What might Jesus do with you, if your faith in him grew to overcome the fear that stops you from obeying him and taking steps to make disciples?
Psalm 28. This week's Sabbath in the Psalms sees the Psalmist begin with urgent requests, but in the middle of the chapter, the tone changes, as if his prayers have been answered mid-sentence, and we are reminded again of the Lord's promises. As we ask him to hear us, he does, and as we ask him to guide us, he does. His mercies are new every morning, great is his faithfulness (Lamentations 3).
Matthew 10:16-23. Ever been afraid of talking to someone about Jesus because you don't know what to say? This fear stretches all the way back to Jesus' followers, and even further, back to Moses. And the answer is the same, because the source of answers is the same.
Matthew 10:26-33. Fear not, because the all-powerful, all-knowing creator of the universe is also your father, who loves you more than you can imagine. And if he is taking care of the sparrows, and none of them falls without him knowing, then you better believe he is taking care of you too.
Mark 5:21-24, 35-43. Can you imagine the fear and pain of losing a child? Jesus' counter to fear is not only for the future, "the hope of glory" but it's for right now, for fears TODAY, in our minds and hearts, troubling us every day. This is one powerful example of Jesus as the counter to fear every day, and also for eternity.
Matthew 6:25-34. Consider the birds and the lilies. They don't seem too worried about their next meal or promotion or outfit, but they still seem well fed and beautifully dressed. And then consider yourself, made in the image of God. Any chance he doesn't provide his absolute best for you?
Psalm 27. The creator of the universe is your light and salvation and strength and shelter... what could we possibly fear? Rest in who he is today.
Luke 5:1-11. Peter was afraid of Jesus power, but the counter to that fear is not Peter’s own power but a role, a purpose within Jesus’ power. Fear not because HE has a purpose for you.
Luke 2:8-14. The angel’s counter to the shepherd’s fear wasn’t about the shepherds. It wasn’t about what they could do, but it was about who Christ is. Do not fear — not because of your own ability — but because of who he is and what that means for you and me.
Luke 1:26-33. If God was done with you, you’d be dead. And if you are part of God’s plan, what could possibly get in the way? That fact you’re alive means God still has plans for you, so you don’t need to fear. No matter how scary your circumstance appears, be certain the sovereign God has it under control.
Luke 1:5-15. The presence of God is a powerful counter to fear. As we remember who it is that is listening to and answering our prayers, so many of our fears melt away.
Fear and peace. The Bible talks a lot about both... and so will season 2 of Word in Motion. Episode 1 coming Monday, January 13.
Merry Christmas! As we conclude season 1, may these questions lead you to intentionally fulfill your purpose on Earth. That each day, through scripture and prayer we would live and love a little more as God intended.
Acts 28:17-31. Paul meets with the Jewish leaders in Rome, the very kinds of people who have been threatening him the whole time. And he proclaims Christ “with all boldness.” Full circle we come from the prayer in Acts 4:29-30.
Psalm 24. Just who is this God we are allowing to drive our lives? If our mission comes from him? Our marching orders come from him, it bears remembering just who he is as we head into the weekend.
Acts 28:1-10. What God-moments are you missing? What disciple-making opportunities are you crediting to luck or coincidence or your own competence? How can those instead be chances to point people to Jesus?
Acts 27:13-44. Paul’s calm in the midst of apparently certain death can only come from knowing who really is in control, despite the wind and the waves. When we recognize who our Father is, there is peace.
Acts 27:1-11. Who are you listening to? And are they the people who will give you Godly advice? Paul speaks up here, logically, wisely, with wisdom from God and is ignored. His advice is passed over for that of others... Whose advice are you listening to?
Acts 26. Paul again shares his testimony, this time with King Agrippa and he is not shy or subtle with his intent, that all who hear would come to a saving relationship with Jesus. What is the purpose of your life and your relationships and how does it to compare to that purpose?
Acts 25. If you do what Jesus did, prepare to go where Jesus went. A life of making disciples was never promised to be easy or “successful” by the world’s measure. What are you willing to do for the cause of Christ?
Acts 24:22-27. Paul spends two years with the Governor Felix, having deep, gospel-centered discussions. Every relationship you have is a disciple-making opportunity. Are you making the most of it?
Acts 24:1-21. Paul appears before a governor, but how many small - seemingly unimportant - interactions led up to this? How has he been faithful to his purpose as a witness to Christ up to now? How can you be faithful to your purpose today, even just in the small opportunities?
Acts 23:1-22. What could possibly move you away from God’s will? Who could wrestle you out of his hands? We see God put people in just the right places to protect Paul because he had to make it to Jerusalem. We don’t always know what God’s plan is for us, but if he was done with you, you’d certainly be dead.
Psalm 22. Have you ever realized God is not only the recipient of our praise, but he is the source of it? God is your reason to praise God.
Acts 22:1-21. What is your story and where does Jesus fit? If it’s true what the Bible says that “if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation,” what makes you different? Think about it today so that you’ll be ready when God gives you your audience, whether it’s one or one thousand.
Acts 21:17-26. Anything can seem “impossible” until someone does it. Hearing what God is doing through others can be so encouraging and emboldening... Just as you’d tell someone to learn from your mistakes, what can be learned from your successes? What has God done through you that might inspire others?
Acts 21:1-16. Paul was ready to go to Jerusalem, fully aware it would likely cost him his life. Even that wasn’t enough to stop him because he had submitted completely to God. How do we reach that level of faith?
Acts 20:17-38. Paul prepares to leave the church leaders for good and he points them back to the cornerstones, the foundation of the church. What is your family of believers built on? How can we live with Christ as the framework?
Psalm 21. Even the king exalts God and gives him the glory for all that is accomplished. We don’t have to stress about our day to day. There is tremendous peace and joy in leaving those concerns at his feet because he has it under control.
Acts 10:1-16. Who have you given up on? Who would you consider a lost cause? We can’t know who God is “done” with, so even if we have moved on, we have to keep praying. Because God is able to save those we consider “lost causes.”
Acts 19:11-20. What needs burned in your life? Whether it’s actually something sinful or just a distraction, Satan is good about pulling our attention away from God. Sometimes it requires radical action to refocus. Are you willing?
Acts 18:24-28. If God is the one preparing us for our calling, equipping is for the mission he has given us, then we are all qualified. It’s not up to us to be “exceptional.” We serve an exceptional God.
Romans 3, Ephesians 2, John 3. What is the gospel? We’re off topic today walking it out, stating for the record what it means when we say “the gospel.” We’ll be back in Acts tomorrow.
Psalm 19. Don’t forget the God who is both your king and your Father, the judge and the good shepherd. Only God could do both perfectly. Praise him this weekend.
Acts 18:18-23. I like my calendar. I like laying out a plan and then living out the plan. But sometimes God knows there are more important things than what I have planned. Let’s learn from Paul and lay our plans at the feet of the all-knowing creator.
Acts 18:1-11. How can God use your earthly skills for his glory? What might he do if you surrendered your organizing or writing or teaching to him for his use? If Paul can find in-roads through tent making, I bet God can use your skills too.
Acts 17:22-34. Growing where you’re planted is easier said than done. But God has put us all in a place, and told us to make disciples in that place. Who is he sending you to? And how are you uniquely prepared to reach them with the gospel?
Acts 17:1-10. So the last person you talked to about Jesus wasn’t the most receptive... We have to remember it’s not our job to save. It’s our job to be witness to Christ and let God to the rest.
Psalm 18. God is our trainer. He is preparing and equipping is to face the challenges ahead. He never abandons us but walks us through every valley of every shadow of death. Walk into the weekend with that confidence.
Acts 16:25-34. Jesus said broad is the way that leads to destruction but narrow is the way that leads to life. The world’s way is so much easier! But what gospel opportunities may be waiting for you on the more difficult, challenging path?
Acts 16:6-15. Good news. When Jesus said “go and make disciples” and “you will be my witnesses,” he didn’t leave that to our own imperfect abilities. He’s taking care of it, we just have to hear him and obey him. Easier said than done.
Acts 16:1-5. What gifts do you see in the believers around you, and have you told them?
Acts 15:22-29. Whatever church you come from, we are unified by Christ. The apostles repeatedly address those in other “churches” as brothers and sisters. What can you do today, from your church to be unified as THE church?
Psalm 17. No matter how desperate things look, how outnumbered and surrounded we feel, let us trust God as David does in this Psalm.
Acts 15:6-11. What would happen if we stop drawing lines between sinners and sinners, and decided to share Jesus with anyone and let God sort out who to save?
Acts 14:19-23. What fears keep you from sharing Jesus? Paul was literally stoned for sharing Jesus. And he pressed on because the gospel was of “first importance.” What’s stopping you?
Acts 14:5-18. How can you redirect people’s attention to God? Our natural instinct is to bask in the world’s praise, but what chance do you have today to decrease so that Christ might increase?
Acts 14:1-7. Today’s society is obsessed with credit. But for every compliment you get, every success you reach, didn’t God provide everything you used to get there?
Psalm 16. He will not abandon us, in his presence is fullness of joy. Whatever you are facing this weekend, know that your Heavenly Father who loves you more than you can comprehend is with you.
Acts 13:42-49. Jesus said he would make his followers “fishers of men.” So, why are you banging your head against a wall, when there are fish jumping out of the water for gospel truth?
Acts 13:15-25. Spend a little time in the Old Testament and you’ll see how the gospel story, the story of Jesus our Messiah dying and rising again for the sins of the world, behind a lot earlier than Gabriel visiting the virgin Mary.
Acts 12:11-17. When God answers your prayers, do you notice? The disciples were so focused on praying for Peter’s rescue, they dismissed Rhoda when she reported that he was at the gate! How have you seen God answers your prayers recently and who will you tell?
Acts 12:1-11. Two very different outcomes, both “good” by God’s definition. One big challenge we face as disciples is desiring God’s will above our desires. But as we understand who he is and how he loves his children, and as our faith grows, we start to see his “yes” and “no” differently.
Psalm 9. Remembering just who our God is and what he is capable of should be constant practice for disciples because we face constant challenges that distract us and inspire fear in us. But when we look back to God, we didn’t comfort and courage because he is with us. And he is sovereign.
Acts 11:19-26. Jesus told us to make disciples of ALL nations. That’s a daunting task, but he promised in Matthew 28 to be with us always. The spread of the gospel in Acts is only possible with God’s unwavering faithful presence and help.
Acts 10:30-48. Would you rather BE right or GET IT right, even if that means admitting you were wrong? While it’s less flashy than standing on a street corner shouting scripture, humility is another way we can show people our savior.
Acts 10:9-16. Who have you given up on? Maybe God is putting an “undesirable” person in your life on purpose, to reach them through you... if you’re willing to be used.
Acts 9:36-43. What happens after God answers your prayer? Who do you tell about it? We see throughout Acts, new disciples come to know Christ because of answered prayers. What’s one story you can tell others about God taking care of you?
Psalm 8. Sabbath in the Psalms this Friday, we remember just how majestic the creator is. He made everything, and made you, with all your strengths and weaknesses and he loves you more than you can imagine.
Acts 9:10-19. Who have you given up on? Ananias had heard enough about Saul to want to avoid him at all costs. But where you can’t teach an old dog new tricks, it seems God can.
Acts 8:26-40. Where has God put you? Who has God put around you? Do you trust that he placed you in that setting, with that audience on mission for a purpose? Let’s pray for greater trust in God’s plan today.
Acts 7:53-8:4. The church is scattered by persecution and yet everywhere they go, they are preaching the word. Today, is there one moment in one conversation where we have a chance to share one scripture with someone?
Acts 6:8-7:53. Long chunk today but what a defense from Stephen before the authorities. What would you or I say? Are we ready to give a defense?
Sabbath in Psalm 6 today. No matter what your circumstance, your all-powerful Father in heaven hears you. Let that be a comfort in whatever situation you find yourself this weekend.
Acts 5:17-32. Time to refocus on our mission. Two reminders here from the early church, first that God will give an audience to those bearing witness to him. It might be small or big but he will give an audience. Second, he is taking care of his witnesses.
Acts 5:1-11. It sort of makes sense that, as witnesses to the literal embodiment of truth... we should probably tell the truth...? Hmmm.
Acts 4:32-37. How’s your generosity? When was the last time you gave to someone from your time, talent or treasures with no incentive for personal gain?
Happy Monday! Acts 4:23-31. Imagine being threatened to stop talking about Jesus, and rather than praying for protection, or a different mission or a different mission field, imagine praying instead for boldness to keep on talking about Jesus?
Sabbath in the Psalms. Pausing from our looking at our imperfections to read Psalm 3 and rest in God’s sustaining power. Happy Friday!
Acts 3:1-10. The early church is exploding, the young believers are living on mission, and they come across an opportunity to be witnesses to Jesus, not as part of a planned evangelism event, but as an interruption in their plan. What if we lived with enough openness and flexibility to deviate from our plan for a gospel opportunity?
Acts 2:42-47. Imagine a church suddenly infused with 3,000 new believers. How would your church handle it? More importantly, what would the church look like if we lived joyfully devoted to Christ’s teaching, fellowship and breaking bread together and prayer?
Continuing in Acts 2, Peter is not a scholar or a seminary-trained preacher, but through him, God delivers a powerful message and 3,000 are added to the kingdom. What can you do TODAY to be ready when God uses you?
Acts 2:1-8. The disciples obedience is richly rewarded. Jesus commanded us to love God and love others. What can you do today to obey and what light God do through your obedience?
Our first Friday Psalm, reading through Psalm 1 to think about contentment. God plants his people exactly where they are meant to be on purpose. Next week, we’ll head back into Acts...