The Messy Walk Podcast: Recent Episodes
Adam Cook
The Christian walk with Jesus is the greatest experience our human lives can embrace, but it is incredibly hard. Unfortunately, conversations about faith tend to ignore the struggles or only brush by the difficulties in route to talking about personal victories or growth. In a day and age where we see leaders in corporate America, our government, and even the church try to hide their flaws, we are taking an uncommon approach to the Christian walk. Join Pastor Adam Cook each Wednesday as he takes some risks and heads down a road of honesty about this messy walk we call faith. We won’t play it safe, and neither should you. In fact, you cannot play it safe and please God, so why pretend? Nobody is perfect. Everyone has struggles. Even Christians. If you are ready to step into an authentic faith walk and get some mud on your boots, this podcast is for you. Adam Cook is the founding and Senior Pastor of Union Church located in rural Danville, Virginia, and Yanceyville, North Carolina. He has been in full-time ministry in a variety of settings and church sizes for over 20 years and strives to use authenticity, honesty, and rawness to lead others into a real, albeit messy, walk with Jesus.
The Messy Walk Podcast is continuing to accept any of your questions on social media that may be answered in future podcast episodes. Have you ever felt like someone is a hopeless case? Sometimes it seems like you can't get through to someone, no matter how hard you try to share your faith with them. When is enough, enough? Pastor Adam and Steph offer an alternative perspective on sowing and reaping, and on assuming the best about the unseen work that God is doing in the lives of others.
Do you have any questions? The Messy Walk Podcast invites you to send questions on social media that may be answered in future podcast episodes. The question of the day is all about how to read the entire Bible. Pastor Adam and Steph give advice on using reading plans, Bible commentaries, chronological Bibles, and more to help you get started in your reading and to help you develop your understanding of the Scriptures by studying on a deeper level.
Continuing the "Any Questions?" series, The Messy Walk Podcast invites you to share your curiosities by sending questions that you may want answered in future podcast episodes. The topic today focuses on honesty in marriage and on how to move forward after broken trust. Married people are one, so there is nothing between husband or wife that should be hidden, whether it be fears, worries, concerns, hopes, struggles, or dreams. Pastor Adam and Steph implore married couples to always bring everything into the light and work through things together so that secrets are not allowed an opportunity to grow.
In the first episode of a new series called "Any Questions?", The Messy Walk Podcast invites you to share your curiosities by sending questions that may be answered in future podcast episodes. Today's question dives deep into church history as Pastor Adam and Steph briefly explain the reasoning and beauty behind the numerous Christian denominations, and they go on to express the importance of setting aside some minor differences for the sake of unity.
Pastor Adam and Steph share details about future episodes of The Messy Walk Podcast. This includes inviting listeners to send questions via social media to be answered in a new series, and other ideas for potential questions that may be covered.
In the conclusion to the Thankful Meditations series, Pastor Adam and Steph mull over a quote from Paul the Apostle in his letter to the church in 1st-century Thessalonica. Pastor Adam and Steph comment that Jesus never intended for us to wear rose-colored glasses and pretend everything is good all the time. In fact, he warned that life will have its troubles. However, Paul encourages the church to remain in constant communication with God and to always be thankful, because this is God's will for us. It is possible to thank him for difficulty because it often leads to something better from a different perspective.
Today's episode continues the Thankful Meditations series by focusing on a second quote from G.K. Chesterton. In his own musings, Chesterton alludes to the unbridled excitement of kids at Christmas time as opposed to our own underappreciated blessings that may seem more mundane. Pastor Adam and Steph relate the childhood enthusiasm for receiving parents' gifts to the grown-up need to generate thankfulness for God's gifts.
The Messy Walk podcast turns 200 episodes old! Celebrate with Pastor Adam and Steph as they go over the history of the podcast and introduce a reel of behind-the-scenes bloopers, off-the-cuff comments, and random ramblings.Also, be on the lookout for the announcement on social media of who will win the book giveaway and receive 10 highly recommended books referenced on the podcast before!
The Messy Walk Podcast is celebrating its upcoming 200th episode with a special book giveaway! Join Pastor Adam and Steph as they discuss 10 highly inspirational books that have been referenced on the podcast. Continuing with the Thankful Meditations series, Pastor Adam and Steph reflect on a quote from Matthew Henry, the author of one of the oldest and most frequently used Bible commentaries of all time. Henry comments on his experience of being robbed, and he realizes his misfortune could in many ways be much worse, demonstrating multiple levels of gratitude, even though bad things happen. Pastor Adam and Steph recall a couple of people they know whose deep faith allows them to handle difficult, life-altering situations with more poise than most.
Practice making God's blessings personal. Enjoy the day; don't just survive it. Treat yesterday as if it died, and today is a new birth. Pastor Adam and Steph are once again meditating on a quote from William Law, whose words were written down in the early 1700s. These ideas also lead them to share a bonus quote from G.K. Chesterton, who teaches that perhaps God is strong enough to enjoy doing His work again and again, even when we, as adults, grow tired of repetition.
Being content means being satisfied with what you have and how things are in the present. It doesn't make a difference if there is an increase or a decrease; you are not worried about striving to change anything. On the other hand, without contentment, it wouldn't matter how much you achieve; the want for more would still be there. Pastor Adam and Steph marinate on a quote from Charles Spurgeon—one of the greatest and most well-documented preachers of all time—and offer a word of advice: If you find your contentment in being a child of God, it cannot be taken away from you.
Life doesn't always feel great, but there is always a decision in how to respond to every situation. Sometimes all we can do is play the hand we are dealt. Even so, there is room for gratitude, and practicing gratefulness when our emotions are still feeling hurt and bitter is a conscious choice. This is what Henri Nouwen, a late 20th-century Catholic priest, was meaning to tell us. In this episode, Pastor Adam and Steph dissect one of the more recent quotes on their list, and they talk about the challenge of choosing to view things as blessings rather than burdens.
To say we owe a lot to God is an understatement, as he is tremendously merciful and kind to us. When we keep this in mind and acknowledge this in prayer, it has lingering depth in God's eyes, and it welcomes his favor. Pastor Adam and Steph meditate on the oldest quotes on their list, nearly 400 years old, from a Puritan preacher in the mid-1600s, John Bunyan. His words serve as a reminder that no matter what, God is constantly guiding us back to him.
We tend to pray about what seems pressing to us, yet we take for granted the many things we should be thankful for. Usually, whoever can be trusted with a little can also be trusted with a lot. Dietrich Bonhoeffer was a famous theologian in Germany who was known for his involvement with the anti-Nazi movement during World War II. Pastor Adam and Steph focus on a quote from Bonhoeffer and ask themselves what they might consider big or small things to pray about, and they question what it would mean for God to give great things to those who don't receive the little things from him.
People who live simpler lives tend to be more thankful for what they have. Sometimes, all God needs to hear from his people is a simple "Thank you," and that would be enough. Ultimately, giving thanks in prayer acknowledges the source of all good things and to whom we owe our lives. Continuing the series on Thankful Meditations, Pastor Adam and Steph examine one of the oldest quotes on their list, from the 13th-century German priest Meister Eckhart.
To be cynical is to have a mindset of seeing the world as if everyone is out for themselves. If you are a cynic, you may find yourself suspicious of everything and distrustful of other people. You may find it hard to see the world and humanity as redeemable. American pastor and influential 20th-century author A.W. Tozer believed that thankfulness was the key to avoiding a cynical heart. Pastor Adam and Steph discuss their tendencies toward cynicism and how focusing on things they are thankful for can really change their attitudes for the better.
Gratitude gives us a deeper, holy fear and respect for God, and that allows us to be awakened to what really is important in life. No matter what we have to deal with during our day, we must realize that God is true, and He gives good gifts that we can be thankful for. Pastor Adam and Steph continue their meditations on a quote from John Milton, who lived in the 17th century and is considered one of the greatest British poets of all time.
We naturally attribute godliness to specific actions, but the motives matter too. If we're doing things for appearances or to complete a personal checklist, it's not necessarily an indication of holy, righteous living. Yet if we are able to view everything as a blessing, and we are able to quickly turn the things that we have or what happens to us into reasons to praise God, we find ourselves closer to him, and our thoughts more like his. Pastor Adam and Steph meditate on a quote from 18th-century priest, William Law, who points out that the greatest saints are the ones who give thanks.
Pastor Adam and Steph begin a new series of episodes by meditating on quotes from respected Christian leaders throughout history about the profound practice of being thankful. This week's quote comes from 20th-century Christian apologist G.K. Chesterton who believed that thanks are the highest form of thought. Pastor Adam and Steph reflect on how that could be, drawing connections between a thankful mindset and the funnel of gratitude that inevitably leads to acknowledging our creator.
God is generous, and we are to be like him; therefore, we are to be generous. We have been so abundantly blessed, and God has given us freely everything we have, beyond anything we deserve or what our own efforts could achieve. Given this, we should know that everything we have belongs to the Lord, just as we belong to the Lord. In this final episode of the "Pastor Pleas" series, Pastor Adam levels with listeners about the necessity of putting God first in how we manage our money and more. *Scripture referenced in this episode: Matthew 10:8
God lovingly crafted us in the wombs of our mothers, and He made us with distinct features and personalities. We do not need to hide our quirks and feelings to impress other people. We can be silly, we can be open about what bothers us, and we can choose to be joyful. The Messy Walk host Steph and special guest Chloe are here to remind us of the importance of living authentically before God and others, and that the people who are meant to be in our lives are not going to leave if we are honestly ourselves. *Scripture referenced in this episode: Psalm 118:24, 139:13-14, 1 Corinthians 12:27, Philippians 4:8
The Bible has a lot to say about sexual purity and holiness, and you don't have to read too far to know that its authors agree that sharing a bed and a home is intended for marriage. However, in today's culture, many couples who are not legally married find reasons to cohabitate. Unfortunately, couples who live together before marriage are 31% more likely to have their marriage end in divorce. Pastor Adam and Steph share statistics that show why living together before marriage is a bad idea, and they encourage couples who are skeptical of getting married to take the plunge.
Church attendance is on the decline. Many people consider themselves regular church attenders if they go to services once every couple of months. However, when we skip out on corporate worship, we miss the most important thing that happens when Christians gather: the act of honoring God together in unity. Pastor Adam and Steph plead with listeners not to isolate themselves, but to prioritize church attendance and being in community with fellow believers so that the body of Christ can continue to thrive.
Social media is a tool that is neither inherently good nor bad. Studies have proven that extended usage of social media platforms can have many harmful side effects on the human mind. At the same time, there are good things that can be done through social media to spread awareness and connect people. Pastor Adam and Steph warn that if we are not careful, social media can monopolize our time. These online platforms are designed to suck you in, and you need to be careful about the things you let into your mind. What goes in eventually comes out, so we should fill our minds with things that are pure and helpful. *Scripture referenced in this episode: Philippians 4:8
In today's culture, people are less interested in church and are less likely to trust that pastors have good intentions. The internet has a wealth of content from famous church leaders, Christian authors, and influencers, but when people consume content online instead of building personal relationships with other believers, the seeds of true discipleship are not allowed to grow. With these things in mind, Christians tend to assume that other people will be led to Christ if we can just get them to listen to the right sermon or faith-based content. Yet it has always been God's plan to use everyday, ordinary Christians to share their own personal faith with other people to reach them with the gospel. Pastor Adam and Steph plead with Christian listeners to share their faith more. If you are a Christian, know that you have more power and influence than you realize. People are more likely to want to listen to you than a polished speaker, and you should see everywhere you go as an opportunity to share the good news of Jesus Christ. *Scripture referenced in this episode: 1 Peter 3:15, John 3:16
At the start of any romantic relationship, it is wise to make sure values are aligned before getting too deep. Intentional dating is for the purpose of finding a partner who demonstrates the potential for a healthy marriage. In matters of faith, it is of high importance to be sure that each person shares similar beliefs. Pastor Adam and Steph stress the significant issue with couples dating when they do not have the same level of faith as one another. They plead for listeners to know that linking your life up with a person who has different views on non-negotiable values such as faith causes an unbelievable amount of tension in a committed relationship. The goal is to find someone who is in agreement and who is willing to walk with you in the same direction. *Scripture referenced in this episode: 2 Corinthians 6:14
Church leaders and scholars of the Bible have been known to make mistakes. Pastors can be wrong, and even well-meaning people can teach things incorrectly. This is why it is so important for everyone to read the Bible for themselves. Do not be manipulated or misled, instead learn the scriptures and know the difference between what is true and false. Pastor Adam and Steph plead with followers of Jesus to take advantage of the accessibility of the Bible, to use study materials, and to determine every day to make time to read God's Word knowing that the Holy Spirit will help guide our understanding.
No one enters into a marriage from the beginning with plans for the relationship to fail, but the unfortunate reality is that more than half of marriages in the USA end in divorce. Marriage is hard. It is also true that couples who spend even 2 hours in premarital counseling cut their likelihood of getting a divorce in half. Pastor Adam and Steph discuss the importance of identifying potential weaknesses, being clear about non-negotiables, and bringing in an unrelated third party to talk about these topics in order to secure a more stable marriage.
In an age where we can access the world's finest orators and preachers with a simple click, it is very easy to shop around for the perfect church to attend. There is beauty in the diverse expressions of faith and worship in Jesus, and it's good when you find something that lines up well with your preferences. Even so, Pastor Adam and Steph caution against hopping from one church to another instead of plugging in and committing to a local church community. Listening to the best sermons online each week does not compare to working together with devoted Christ-followers who share the same values and mission as you. May the Lord come back to find us diligent in carrying out his mission together rather than merely watching live streams from the comfort of our homes.
If we are being honest with ourselves, there are many frequent questions and circumstances that make us doubt the existence of God. At the very least, these things make us doubt that he cares about us, or that things in the Bible are really true. Many people see doubt as a sign of weak faith, but whenever genuine followers of Jesus came to him with questions he did not reprimand them. Jesus always gave his followers just enough to prove God is trustworthy. In this episode, Pastor Adam and Steph plead for listeners not to be afraid of their doubts and questions because searching for the truth will lead us to deeper faith.
Pastors want to see people grow into deep, meaningful relationships with God and others. They desire people to have a strong, developed understanding of scripture and to live in the ways that God has instructed, as that is what is best for humanity. According to Pastor Adam, there are many common pitfalls that he has observed people slipping into time and time again. The goal of this series is to share the things he would urge listeners to do or avoid. This week, Pastor Adam and Steph encourage everyone not to wait to seek counseling because it is something that all people can benefit from. *Scripture referenced in this episode: Ephesians 4:27
To tease the start of a new series, Pastor Adam and Steph reveal the title and topic of the episodes to come. *Scripture referenced in this episode: 1 Peter 5:1-3, Hebrews 13:7
Politics. Even the word itself has become evocative, stirring up strong emotions in many who hold firmly to their views on policies, leadership, and morality. As the United States of America approaches another presidential election, Pastor Adam and Steph offer a series of questions we can ask ourselves to see where our true allegiances lie. Are we being misled by the sneaky golden calf of politics, or are we putting our trust in Jesus and allowing his teachings to be the filter by which we shape our views? By asking ourselves these questions, we can discern whether our political beliefs are grounded in faith or in the fleeting promises of worldly power and government. *Scripture referenced in this episode: James 4:17, 1 Peter 5:1-3, Hebrews 13:1721 Questions to Consider1. Have you heard the name of a political figure more today than you have the name of Jesus?2. Have you spent more time today thinking about the president (or another politician) than you have thinking about the creator of the universe?3. Have you spent more time listening to talk of politics—on social media, talk radio, cable news, and so on—than you spent in the Word of God or with gospel-oriented media?4. When I discover that a fellow believer disagrees with my political preferences, do I make assumptions about their level of sanctification and commitment to Jesus based on their political affiliation?5. Do I continually make excuses for why I support certain policies or politicians, even though I know they undermine my gospel witness?6. Do I judge myself as having noble motives when it comes to politics, yet assume the worst about people on the other side of the political divide?7. Do I look for excuses to judge my ungodly behavior when it comes to politics rather than asking forgiveness from God?8. Have I become more obsessed with achieving a specific political outcome than I am about leading people to Christ?9. Am I more willing to allow injustice to occur than to suffer injustice myself?10. Can I truly say that my political choices and preferences are informed by and consistent with a biblical standard of ethics?11. Do I attempt to justify my politics based on the “realism” of general revelation (e.g., that sometimes we must make compromises) rather than on reality as revealed in special revelation (e.g., “So whoever knows the right thing to do and fails to do it, for him it is sin.” – James 4:17)?12. When I (reluctantly) pray for politicians with whom I disagree, do I primarily pray that they will lose the next election or otherwise fail to gain political power and influence?13 Am I more likely to be shaped by the political views of an acquaintance on Facebook than I am by the inspired words of Scripture?14. Would I find it easier to recite the names of 12 presidential candidates than I would the 12 disciples or the 12 tribes of Israel?15. Have more of my conversations today been about politics than about the gospel?16. Do my words and actions reveal that I am more concerned about the way Christians will vote than I am with whether they are enjoying God?17. Based on my thoughts and actions today, does it seem as if I’m more concerned about the next four years than I am with eternity?18. Have I been willing to overlook when politicians on my side say they are Christian and yet act in ways that bring dishonor to Christ?19. Am I more concerned with political pragmatism than I am with obeying every command of Christ?20. Do my concerns about possible political outcomes show that I may not truly trust that God is sovereign over the nations?21. Am I more offended by these questions (and my honest answers) than I am in how they reveal my idolatry?
It is good for people to have positive relationships, be they platonic, professional, or romantic. On the other hand, when the relationship becomes the ultimate concern in our lives it creates a problem of controlling our thoughts and actions. Thus the relationships we have with the people closest to us can become a sneaky golden calf. To help us keep our priorities straight, Pastor Adam and Steph refer to the command of Jesus to love God above all else, and to love our neighbors as ourselves. *Scripture referenced in this episode: Genesis 29:16-18, Matthew 22, Romans 12:15
Every person, when faced with enough hurt, shame, regret, loneliness, or stress is susceptible to falling into the tight grip of addiction. We can become addicted to all sorts of things. Unfortunately, these addictions take positions of power and cause more harm than good. Although the sneaky golden calf of addiction may leave us high and dry, Pastor Adam and Steph seek to reveal how Jesus Christ is the long-term solution for dealing with human struggles. *Scripture referenced in this episode: Romans 8:13, Colossians 3:1-2, Psalm 115
One of the most common sneaky golden calves in our culture is money. Not that money is objectively evil; it can be a great resource to accomplish all sorts of good in the world. However, when the pursuit of money becomes the most important thing in our lives it makes it impossible for us to earnestly serve God. With this in mind, Pastor Adam and Steph talk about the idolization of money, and how to practice gratitude and contentment. *Scripture referenced in this episode: Matthew 6:24, 1 Timothy 6:10, Jonah 2:8
Reputation is a double-edged sword, and it can easily become a sneaky golden calf. When speaking of a person's reputation, we are often describing how their character is perceived by others, which is closely tied to whether the person is well-liked or not. As we read our Bible, we find both passages that encourage having a good reputation, and passages that give caution to being liked by everyone. How do we reconcile the two? Pastor Adam and Steph help us break down the differences between actively pursuing a good reputation versus pursuing godly character and allowing reputation to be a by-product. *Scripture referenced in this episode: Proverbs 22:1, 1 Timothy 3:7, Luke 6:26, Isaiah 53:3.
The value of success, particularly career success, is instilled in us from a very young age. There are those of us who are driven to achieve, to become the best we can be, and we want to accomplish it by almost any means necessary. The value of success and career climbing can become a sneaky golden calf in our lives when we don't take the time to humble ourselves before God. Pastor Adam and Steph remind us that even the most successful people can lose it all in a moment. It is the Lord who gives, and the Lord can also take away.
Being a parent is a great gift and honor. For those who have children, their kids are a joyful piece of life, and nothing seems more important than making sure their sons or daughters have the best there is to offer. It's not wrong to love your children. The problem is that sometimes our love for our children can easily overshadow our love for God and our commitment to Him. We can find ourselves worshipping another sneaky golden calf without realizing it. Pastor Adam and Steph discuss the dangers of allowing our kids to become the highest priority in our lives, and the two share the benefits of raising children in a way that honors God and allows them to develop into the adults God would have them to be. *Scripture referenced in this episode: Genesis 2:24, Ephesians 5:31, 1 John 3:1, 1 John 4:19
In the first episode of a new series called "Sneaky Golden Calves," The Messy Walk Podcast host, Steph, is joined by her husband Jonathan as they talk about idols that we commonly have without realizing it. This week's episode focuses on the sneaky golden calf of entertainment. Oftentimes the things we enjoy are not inherently sinful, but our desire to be entertained can become more important to us than our need to spend time with God. With a little intentionality we can pay closer attention to how we spend our time, and set better boundaries so that God remains first in our lives. *Scripture referenced in this episode: Exodus 32:1-8, Colossians 3:2-10
In today's episode, Pastor Adam and Steph share details about future episodes of The Messy Walk Podcast. This includes the title of the upcoming series, the topics that will be covered, and ideas for the following series.
Not everyone has been a bully, and not everyone has been bullied before, but the odds are that most people have at least witnessed someone else being bullied. There is always a bystander in every bullying situation who sees someone else being mistreated. When faced with such a situation, what is the bystander to do? Pastor Adam & Steph give an example of someone from the Bible who we can take inspiration from. David was a young man of no influence who saw his people being bullied, and he chose to honor God by having the faith to take action. *Scripture referenced in this episode: 1 Samuel 17:8-11, 26, 32.
Being a victim of bullying is hard. It can make a person feel defeated and resentful toward the bully and even themselves. Sometimes it feels inescapable. What is a victim to do when they are constantly being pestered? Pastor Adam and Steph take us back to scripture to show us what Jesus taught is the appropriate response to bullies. The goal is to repay evil with good. We are not told to allow ourselves to be a doormat or pushover, not are we told to fight back or retaliate in harmful ways, but we are told to love our enemies. *Scripture referenced in this episode: Matthew 5:38-48, Romans 12:17-21
No one can be bullied unless there is someone to bully them. We know that bullies pick on people they perceive as different from themselves in some way, but the question is: why? The truth is that hurting people often hurt other people. In this week's episode, Pastor Adam and Steph talk about the continuous cycle of bullying among those who have been bullied before, and they discuss how to repent of the sin if you realize the bully is you. God is personally offended by the mistreatment of other people, but even if you have been a bully, by him, you are loved, and if you are willing to be guided by him, he will show you the best way. *Scripture referenced in the episode: Exodus 22:21-24, Romans 12:19, 1John 1:9, Philippians 2:3
Bullying is not limited to kids on the playground, nor does it always involve stealing someone's lunch money. There are many different ways people are bullied, and it is a frequent problem in all age groups. This week's episode is the start of a new series about bullying, and about understanding the four players involved in each bullying situation. Pastor Adam and Steph first talk about the "outsider," which they define as those who are vulnerable to being mistreated. Rest assured that God cares deeply about outsiders, who are no less valuable than anyone else, and he calls his people to be kind and inclusive towards them. *Scripture referenced in this episode: Psalm 68:5-6, Isaiah 56:3-8, Deuteronomy 24:19-22, Deuteronomy 10:17-19
The Bible is in a lot of ways complex, yet there are also many things detailed in scripture that seem to fall outside of the natural order of things. Miracles, paradoxes, odd stories, controversies, and a plethora of difficult commands are all inside. It's enough to sprout seeds of doubt in the mind, and to cause skeptics to ask, "Is everything in the Bible really true?" Pastor Adam and Steph take this episode of the podcast to remind us that, while it is good to seek knowledge and wisdom, the mind of God far surpasses the comprehension of the people he created. In matters of faith, and in matters of trusting the Bible, perhaps the better question to ask is, "Do I really need to fully understand?" *Scripture referenced in this episode: Ephesians 1, John 6:44, John 1:12-13, 2 Peter 1:20, Philippians 4:6, Daniel 4:35, Acts 2:23, Deuteronomy 29:29, Isaiah 55:8-9
Do other people care about me? Each of us has asked this question from time to time. Maybe it seems like people are only nice in order to gain something, or maybe it feels like people pay no attention at all. In any case, this is a question that puts us at the center of our own world. On today's episode, Pastor Adam and Steph explain why we should change this self-centered question to one that helps us think more like Jesus. Instead of asking, "Do they care about me," we should ask, "Do I care about them?" *Scripture referenced in this episode: Philippians 2:1-5
We all sin, and we have all done things that weigh heavy on our conscience. Guilt keeps us from enjoying the life we have, and it disables us from being truly free. Because we know that we have messed up, we ask, "Does God forgive me?" Jesus's answer to that question is an emphatic "Yes!" However, there are times when we just don't feel forgiven, and it is during those times when we must change that question and ask, "Do I forgive myself?" This week Pastor Adam and Steph dive into the topic of forgiveness and how to show ourselves kindness to make room for God to restore us. "Scripture referenced in this episode: 1 John 1:9, Colossians 3:12-13, Ephesians 4:32
When thinking on what actions to take, what career to pursue, or any other big decision, we might feel pressure and ask God, "What do I do?" It is good to seek God for guidance, yet sometimes it is helpful to look inwardly, change the question, and ask ourselves, "Who am I becoming?" Our identity is not tied to our work, but is given to us by God's design. In this week's episode Pastor Adam and Steph talk about the differences between what we do and who we are, and the significance of being.
In today's episode, Pastor Adam and Steph address an age-old question. There is undeniably so much suffering in our world which also leads people to debate about the problem with evil, pain, or suffering, and to ask, "Why doesn't God do something?" It is reasonable to wonder why life ahs been made so hard, and the Bible does offer some explanations for that often shared sentiment. Yet, if we see that there is a problem that seems to be unaddressed, rather than questioning God's reasons behind it, we can instead survey ourselves to see what we can do to help. The new question that we should ask is "Why don't I do something?" It may be that God is giving you the opportunity to be the relief or support that is needed.
We all wonder at times, especially during difficult seasons, if God really loves us. However, God has made his love for us very clear, and he has demonstrated it by sending Jesus to die for us even though we sin against him. Although we can not expect to live flawless lives, it would not be right to accept God's love and then ignore the ways he says to honor him. The question we must ask instead is, "Do I love God?" In this episode Pastor Adam and Steph point out that Jesus and his apostle John give a clear indicator of our love for God, and it is most easily seen in what we choose to do. *Scripture referenced in his episode: John 14:15, 1 John 5:3, 1 John 3:16, Romans 5:8, John 15:13
Is God moving? We want to know if God is truly at work in our world because sometimes it's hard for us to see. We ask the question not realizing that God is always moving. The problem, then, may be that we are too oblivious, and we need to be made more aware of where he is going and how we can follow him. In this episode Pastor Adam and Steph change the question. Instead of asking, "Is God moving?" we should be asking, "Am I going?" *Scripture referenced in this episode: John 5:17, Matthew 16:18, 2 Samuel 2:1-2
It's the start of a new series, and Pastor Adam and Steph are challenging us to rethink the questions we ask about God and our life. Sometimes it's hard to find the answers we are looking for because we are asking the wrong questions in the first place. If we can learn how to change our questions it can help us to reach conclusions that are far more helpful. Today's episode focuses on the question "Is God speaking?" Perhaps the better question to ask is "Am I listening?" *Scripture referenced in this episode: Psalm 28, 2 Corinthians 5:7, Hebrews 11
To finish up the series of Why Worry is Wrong, Pastor Adam and Steph remind us that it is unwise to worry when we know who holds our tomorrow. If we learn to trust God and put him first in all things, then we recognize it is of no benefit to worry. Wisdom in understanding that God is in charge of your future, and he knows what is best for you.
It should be a goal of our lives to make our actions and our mindset be congruent with the life of faith that Jesus has called us to. If we are believers in Jesus and we worry, we behave as if we do not trust that God has promised to provide for us. In today's episode, Pastor Adam and Steph help us to see how worry is unreasonable for those who have faith in God, and how logical it is to trust he will meet our needs.
It would not make sense to put a lot of focus into something that is both unprofitable and unenjoyable, yet when we worry that is exactly what we are doing. We are so often worried about things that are beyond our control, and to what end? God, our Father, promises to take care of us, but the stress or worry is not helpful or needed. Pastor Adam and Steph show us through scripture why worry is unnecessary according to Jesus.
The number one reason why we should not worry is because our Lord, Jesus himself, told us not to. If we consider ourselves servants of God then our sole responsibility is to be obedient to our master. On today's episode, Pastor Adam and Steph explain why worry is an act of unfaithfulness, and they explain why God is someone you can always trust.
Do you find yourself frequently anxious or worried? Jesus' famously offered a lot of instruction when it comes to how we manage the weight we carry on our minds each day and how we should behave. He offers both the comfort of knowing God cares for our individual needs, and he offers a few reasons why worry is wrong. In this start of a new series, Pastor Adam and Steph break down the reasons why we should not worry, and they help us understand what Jesus wants to teach us about seeking God and depending on him.
How can we put God first at the beginning of the year? By fasting. Fasting is when you deny yourself of physical needs for a set period of time and instead focus your energy on connecting with God. Jesus assumes that his followers will fast, and he gave instruction on how to do it appropriately. In this final episode of the series, Pastor Adam and Steph detail the spiritual growth principle of fasting on the first of the year, and encourage each of us to continue to seek God first every day, every week, every month, and every year to master the art of being unordinary. *Scripture referenced in this episode: Matthew 6:16-18
On the first of the month we can practice the art of being unordinary by being obedient to God's command for generosity. Today the conversation is about money and tithing. Tithing is worshipfully giving God the first 10% of your income, and you can develop this discipline by planning how much you can give at the beginning of each other. Pastor Adam and Steph give the disclaimer, we do not want your money, and they share the significant impact of honoring God through giving back a portion of what he has given us.
To practice the art of being unordinary, Pastor Adam and Steph teach us the importance of prioritizing worship of God on the first of the week. Sunday is the beginning of the week, and it is best spent in corporate worship with fellow believers. It is easy to want to do other things, but if you can make church attendance a non-negotiable, you can also expect more opportunities for spiritual growth as you honor God's command to assemble together.
To practice the art of being unordinary, we can start off by putting God first each day. Rather than cramming our time with God in the 1.5 hours we spend in church on Sunday morning, we c an benefit from seeking God at the beginning of every morning. In this episode, Pastor Adam and Steph talk about the disciplines of reading the Bible and praying on a daily basis to help us grow spiritually throughout 2024.
Have you felt like you are simply just surviving? You do all the ordinary things. You go to work, eat regular meals, take care of chores, and fall asleep only to repeat the pattern the next day. Yet God intends for his people to do extraordinary things, and we are challenged to think differently from the culture. Join Pastor Adam and Steph as they discuss what it means to renew our minds, and how to practice new patterns to master the art of being unordinary.
When you feel offended, what do you do? How do you address it? How do you break or dismantle the power it has over your life? To conclude the "I'm Offended!" series, Pastor Adam and Steph give advice on how to deal with a spirit of offense, and how to guard your heart with the help of the Holy Spirit.
The classic love chapter in the Bible, 1 Corinthians 13, was written by the apostle Paul in a letter to the church in Corinth to give instruction on what the qualities of true, godly love are. Of all the things listed, offense is not one of them. In fact, love behaves in many opposite ways than offense. To help us recognize whether we are walking in a spirit of love or offense (because we can't do both at the same time), Pastor Adam and Steph go over this list to prove that it is impossible to truly love others ans simultaneously be offended by them.
Often when someone offends us we find ourselves harboring feelings of resentment and disdain towards them. It can be hard to rein in those negative thoughts toward the offender. Whether we are willing to admit it or not, when we have a spirit of offense we allow anger to grow, and anger unchecked can quickly lead to hatred. When Jesus walked the earth, he regularly offended religious leaders such as the Pharisees and Sadducees, and their attitude toward him became very violent. Continuing the series on How to Deal with a Spirit of Offense, Pastor Adam and Steph expound on the topic by discussing the relationship between offense, anger, and hatred.
In this special episode of The Messy Walk Podcast, we share the behind-the-scenes shenanigans and mess-ups that didn't make the final cut of an episode. This is the 2023 outtake reel with Pastor Adam and Steph. As we celebrate the coming of a new year, please allow yourself to be entertained by unexpected chuckles, bumblings, and borderline improv comedy.
Skadalon, the Grek word for offense, is also the word from which we get the English word scandal. Skadalon originally referred to bait in a trap. Like an animal caught in a snare, often our pride and self-righteousness hide the bait that lures us into offense. When something offensive comes up, do we choose to engage, or do we carry on with our lives? In this weeks episode, Pastor Adam and Steph uncover the root of pride and self-righteousness that so frequently leads to being offended. "Scripture referenced in this episode: Isaiah 64:6 a fortified castle, but unity is like anointing oil that runs down the whole body.
The Bible uses the word "offended" 25 times. That may not seem like much, but the meaning behind those verses have strong connotations in both the Hebrew and Greek languages. Jesus made it known that the gospel is offensive because it demands that we make changes to our lives that are not in agreement with the way of this world. The Church and the people of God ought to be like-minded in our beliefs, and in our mission, but offense can drive a wedge between people causing detriment to the body of Christ. In this episode, Pastor Adam and Steph talk about the problem of how anger and disagreements cause division, and about how God calls us to unity. Offense separates us like the bars of a fortified castle, but unity is like anointing oil that runs down the whole body.
In today's culture it often feels as if people are nearly looking for reasons to be offended. It is easy to recognize such negative patterns in the behaviors of others, but something it is far more difficult to assess ourselves with a humble mindset. Using a challenging list found on peacefulwife.com, Pastor Adam and Steph kick off a new series of episodes by reviewing questions we can ask ourselves to identify whether or not we walk around carrying a "spirit of offense".
On site in the Dominican Republic, Pastor Adam sits down with Missionary Alyssa Dugger to talk about how important it is for Christ-followers to be culturally aware. Alyssa, a trained and educated missionary, currently with Casasporcristo.org, is an expert in how to live and witness in foreign cultures. She talks about how to really see people as equal, understand the common needs of people, and see uniqueness and beauty in differences. For Christ-followers who really want to love people and share the Gospel in all contexts, this episode is for you.
To wrap up the series, Pastor Adam and Steph pray for all the listeners of The Messy Walk Podcast, and for all those who struggle with their mental health.
Even if you have not experienced feelings of hopelessness that lead to suicidal thoughts, the odds are that you at least know someone who does. To assist those who are familiar with thoughts of suicide, Pastor Adam and Steph give practical steps on how to fight it, and how to recognize suicidal thoughts, patterns, and behaviors in others. If you have been contemplating suicide, you need to talk to someone. Call 1 (800) 273-8255 or just dial 988 to contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.
In this continued conversation about mental health, Pastor Adam and Steph open up about the difficulties of speaking to others about suicidal thoughts and ideation. The reality is most people know someone who has either thought about or attempted to end their own life. In a world of increasing suicide rates, this silent epidemic has affected people in every demographic, yet it is not often talked about in church settings. The goal is to set the record straight by better understanding suicide and suicidal thoughts, and to encourage others not to feel embarrassed or ashamed about it, but instead to be willing to talk about these things. *Scripture referenced in this episode: Psalm 42:5, 7-8; Matthew 26:38; Isaiah 41:10; Psalm 23:4-6
On today's episode, Pastor Adam and Steph add to their comments regarding anxiety disorders by offering practical ways to combat deep, prolonged anxiety, and by giving helpful insight into ways to respond in light of what the Bible says. Anyone who has struggled with anxiety knows the feeling of wishing it would disappear or leave. We must remember that Jesus' grace is sufficient enough for us all. Even in our weaknesses, we are strong, because Christ's strength is magnified. Therefore, as Apostle Paul says in his letter to the church in Corinth, we can boast about our weaknesses. This means that we can share and highlight this part of our lives. We don't have control over our circumstances or out mental health diagnosis, but what we do have control over is how we respond to our struggle with anxiety and mental health. The key is not to hide it and pretend it doesn't exist, but to be bold and admit that we do struggle! *Scripture reference in this episode: 2 Corinthians 12:9-10, John 10:10.
Anxiety is something we've all felt before. It's a common feeling you get before a big test, when the police drive behind you, or when money is tight. In this episode, Pastor Adam and Stephanie discuss the differences between anxious feelings and anxiety disorders. There are many factors that contribute to these types of neurological conditions, and it is important to knowhow to manage them in a healthy way. The Bible speaks a lot of anxious feeling and actually uses the phrase "fear not" 365 times, but for some it is not so simple to overcome on a daily basis. This episode is to remind you that, even if you deal with an anxiety disorder, God will never stop loving you, and he does not see you as a failing project. *Scripture reference in this episode: Psalm 94:18-19
In this second episode of "An Honest Conversation about Mental Health", Pastor Adam and Stephanie break down the stigma that mental illness is a sin. Many people believe that mental illnesses are punishment for their sinful behaviors, and that they are too broken to be used by God. Although there are many different types of mental illnesses, even the things that seem to be a hinderance to people can ultimately be shaped by God to make them life-giving. If we read the Bible, we see that it is not a book filled with perfect people who lived perfect lives. Scripture is full of messy people, so if you feel too messed up or too broken, then be encouraged because God specializes in using messy people. *Scriptures referenced in this episode: John 9:1-3
Today we kick off a new series about mental health. Unfortunately, conversations and teaching about mental health in the church have been guarded at best, but mostly dismissive, for quite some time. It's something most of us struggle with, but we don't engage in discussing like we should. but, times are changing, and the Christian, world is much more open to diving into the issues we have in our brains and emotions. Pastor Adam and Stephanie jump in to the most honest conversation on mental health you may have ever heard from a Christian perspective. For example, in this episode, they give specific advice to two groups of people: those who struggle with mental health, and those who know someone who does. That pretty much covers everyone. *Scriptures referenced in this episode: Galatians 6:2.
As we wrap all the things we wish someone would've told us when we first started following Jesus, we do it with a super-short episode. This might be our shortest one yet, but the thought is big and profound. We wanted to give you a few moments of just silence to process and think about the fact that God will always be faithful. You might just have to learn this over time, and not in a podcast episode, but we want to declare it to you anyway. *Scripture from this episode: Psalm 37:25, Matthew 28:18-20.
It is really helpful for us to know, and for us to remind each other constantly, that the church is not perfect. Like, it's not even close. If we forget that, or don't fully realize it, it can really derail our faith journey. If you are looking for the perfect church, you won't find it on this side of eternity. The church is full of messy jacked up people and it won't be perfected until Jesus returns and perfects it. Jesus launches the church himself and it has issues from the beginning because the church is made up of humans. Today's episode gives you some easy ways to process this and how to embrace the imperfections of the church. *Scripture referenced in this episode: Acts 6:2-4.
Maybe your conversation to Christ was powerful and emotional, or maybe you have renewed that faith recently and a spark has been lit. And you are just pumped up about it. So, you share your excitement with just about everybody. And, that's the way it ought to be. When you experience something life-changing, you naturally want to share it with others. But, one of the things we wish we would've known when we first started following Jesus is that most people won't share that same excitement. Instead of letting this discourage you from being evangelistic or even enthusiastic, maybe there is a better way. Pastor Adam puts Stephanie on the hot seat and asks her to explain the reason someone might not be as excited as we are. This will help you stay encouraged but also have empathy for other people. And, empathy always makes you more like Christ.
Out of all the spiritual disciplines, prayer is probably the most difficult. And guess what? It’s like that for everyone. In this episode, Pastor Adam and Stephanie give us another thing they wish someone would’ve told them when they first became Christians: Most people don’t pray well. This is an extremely helpful episode because Pastor […]
There are some things we desperately need to know as Christ-followers, and the sooner we know it the better. We wish we would've known and paid attention to the fact that the Devil (Satan) is real. The Devil is not a cartoon character or Halloween costume. He is a supernatural being who waging war against God and the people of God. Pastor Adam states that because he didn't recognize the power of the enemy, he thought he could win all spiritual battles with his own power. Most of the time, we are losing a war that we didn't even know existed. Pastor Adam and Stephanie will show you how the enemy is real by walking through 1 John 3:8. We wish someone would have told us that the enemy is real, the battle is real, and the victory is real. But, you have to know who you are fighting. Scripture references in this episode: 1 John 3:8b, Ephesians 6:12.
This is #4 in our series about all the things we wish someone would’ve told us (or we would have paid attention to) when we first started following Jesus. Today, listen hard and listen deep: You are not alone in your struggles. We know lots of Christians come across as having it all together on […]
Here is something that we wish we would’ve known when we first started following Jesus: The Christian life and walk with Jesus is messy…for EVERYONE. For some reason, we have this tendency to fake it. We have this tendency to pretend like everything is good and following Jesus is easy and always full of joy. […]
Man, it would’ve been ice to know some key things when we first started following Jesus! Today, Stephanie and Pastor Adam talk about the fact that the Bible is not easy to read! It is like no one tells us early on that understanding the bible is difficult; no one tells us where to start […]
New series alert! Pastor Adam and Stephanie jump into a new series that we believe is going to be super helpful for those honestly wanting to follow Jesus. For most of us, when we started following Jesus, we had to sort of figure it out on our own. Here are the things we wish someone […]
It’s a new day for the Messy Walk Podcast! Today we would like you to meet our new host, Stephanie Lee Shelton. This episode is so you can get to know her some while Pastor Adam does a little impromptu interview. So, without further adieu, Messy Walk family meet your new permanent host!
Today is a different kinda episode. Next week we will kick off a new series with our new permanent host, but for now Pastor Adam is in the Dominican Republic with our mission partner, Casas por Cristo, and he is chatting with new mission intern, Jessiah Keller. Jessiah is a young guy from our home […]
On today’s episode, we look at the last characteristic of someone who thinks like Jesus thinks. Jesus had an eternal perspective that was not focused on the earthly and temporary. It’s so easy to get distracted and focused on the temporary. It’s so easy to get distracted and focused on the temporary trappings and hardships […]
Just a couple more episodes left in this series, Pastor Adam and Pastor Matt keep processing how we can think like Jesus thinks. Jesus’ mindset is fixed on wanting to do God’s will instead of His own. That mindset is so counter-cultural. The culture around us says we do what we want and desire. The […]
We all know what it is like to sacrifice for ourselves. We sacrifice time or money or sleep to achieve something or get something in the future. But, how often do we sacrifice, because Jesus is permanently linked to a mental image of the cross. Crosses are the most popular icon that decorates homes and […]
Good news: As a Christ-follower, you HAVE the mind of Christ. Bad news: People are going to hurt you. The mind of Jesus is rooted in the forgiveness of enemies, and the cross is proof-positive that Jesus forgives those who hurt Him. This makes Jesus different from every other leader in history. Jesus models and […]
Most of us depend way too much on our own power, strength, intelligence, wit, and problem-solving skills instead of walking in the power of God. Pastor Adam and Pastor Matt happen to record this episode on what they call “holy hangover Monday”, so it is perfect timing! Jesus repeatedly refuses to separate himself from the […]
It is impossible to please everyone, but that doesn’t seem to stop us from trying! We waste so much time and effort trying to please everyone and seeking approval from everyone. You think you are doing the right thing by making people like you, so people pleasing feels like the right thing to do, but […]
Every person needs help controlling their tongue. Wouldn't it be great to be ale to think like Jesus thinks? And, wouldn't it be great to have a mind that is rooted in the ways of God so much so that we only say what God wants us to say? The 4th characteristic of someone who thinks like Jesus thinks is so helpful: I let God help me choose my words. With the mind of Christ, it is possible to handle our words and tongue the same way Jesus did. Jesus is never speaking without thinking. He doesn't run off at the mouth. He doesn't erupt out of anger. I don't know about you, but I need more of that in my life. This mindset has the power to heal broken relationships, right wrongs, and honor others. If you have a situation that needs changing in your life, this mindset can change just about anything. Scripture reference in today's episode: John 12:49
As a Christ-follower, you can think like Jesus thinks! Join us today as we look at the 3rd characteristic of someone who thinks like Jesus thinks: I am always aware that God is with me. If you struggle with loneliness or worried about God's care for you, this is the episode for you. Pastor Adam is honest about how his mind is changing, specifically regarding loneliness and knowing that God is with him. Scripture references in today's episode: John 16:32.
It's time to get your mind right! And wouldn't it be awesome to think like Jesus thinks? Well, with the mind of Christ, all Christ-followers can actually think like Jesus thinks. Today, we dive into purpose. Because Jesus always knew God's purpose for His life. So, join us as we declare "I know God's purpose for my life!" Scripture references in today's episode: John 8:14, Luke 2:49, John 10:10, John 12:27.
Guess what? You can think like Jesus thinks! A person who thinks like Jesus thinks knows exactly who they are. Jesus was not confused about his identity. He knew exactly who He was. With the mind of Christ, you can walk in knowing exactly who you are. If you don't know who you are like Jesus knows who He is, you will fall into 3 traps: 1) Other people will force you into their mold. 2) You will live a phony life. 3) You will live in constant stress. Jesus is clear in His identity. With the mind of Christ, you can be, too.
Let's be honest, our mind is usually kicking our butts! The battle of the mind is a real thing. Starting today, Pastor Adam and Pastor Matt are trying to get their minds right! Maybe you are, too! Pastor Adam shares that he personally really wants to think like Jesus thinks. Maybe you do, too. Here's the good news: you can actually think like Jesus thinks! Join us today as we kick off an 11-episode series looking at the ten very specific ways that Jesus thinks. Before we jump into the way that Jesus thinks, in this episode we will do a short Bible study on how it's even possible for humans to think like God. Scripture references in today's episode: Isaiah 40:13, 1 Corinthians 2:10-16.
In the last episode of our series of questions from a rookie pastor to the veteran pastor, Matt asks Pastor Adam if he could go back, knowing what he knows now, would he do this ministry thing all over again? Get ready for an honest, open, unplanned and off the cuff reflection and answer. There are days where we would not do it all over again. There are days where we would absolutely do it all over again. But, if we are honest, most days are in the middle somewhere. To answer this, it always helps to go back to what is God-ordained in your life. Pastor Adam wraps the series up with his call-into-ministry about his dad going missing, finding him in the woods paralyzed, and the abrupt voice of God using that to set the course of his life.
We've got only 2 questions left, and today, the rookie pastor asks Pastor Adam to look forward into the future and talk about the plans for maximizing the rest of his ministry. After 20+ years, what does the next phase look life? How do you end well? Pastor Adam talks through his personal convictions on retirement (spoiler - it might ruffle some feathers), seeing leadership continue with his family, pouring into the next generation, getting healthy physically and mentally, and listening to God's call for a lifetime not just a season.
Super short episode where Pastor Adam gives the rookie pastor a list of books that influenced his life. Other than the Bible, there are several books that have had and continue to have a profound impact. maybe these will help: Viktor Frankl, Man's Search for Meaning Henri Nouwen, In the name of Jesus; C.S Lewis, The Problem of Pain; C.S. Lewis, The Screwtape Letters; Elisabeth Elliot, The Path of Loneliness; Henry Cloud/John Townsend, Boundaries.
The danger of church leadership is focusing all our attention non helping other people be intentional in their personal discipleship and evangelism and not actually doing it ourselves. Out of all of the these questions in this series, Pastor Adam says this is the one that he feels he has had the most success in. Pastor Matt, the rookie pastor, asks Pastor Adam how he keeps evangelism intentional in his life personally? Pastor Adam states that is is not a program or a plan. He says the key to being intentional in sharing the gospel with people is keeping evangelism in the forefront of your life.
No matter what your job is, it is tempting, and quite easy, to place your work before your spouse. Things get so pressing in our work, that the consistent things and people in the background can be relegated to the background instead of intentionally lifted to the foreground. Pastor Adam answers the rookie pastor's question with brutal honesty, admitting significant failure, and points to primary ministry responsibilities.
Let's dispel a myth: Pastor and spiritual leaders are great at praying and reading Scripture. That's just not true. All followers of Jesus, no matter the maturity level, struggle at times with reading the Word and praying. Pastor Adam shares with rookie pastor, Matt Dalton, about how he fights to be consistent in these spiritual disciplines. He talks about how he fights to be consistent in these spiritual disciplines. He talks about finding a dedicated time that works in each season of life, knowing that seasons will change and you will have to adjust the time. He shares about being flexible with the particular passages you read, but do not be flexible about actually doing it. He talks about pausing during Bible reading to pray the scripture, getting on your knees sometime during the day, and taking advantage of mindless times like driving and even bathroom time.
Continuing in our series of questions from a rookie pastor to a veteran pastor, today we ask Pastor Adam, "knowing what you know now, what would you say to yourself when you first started ministry?" It's such a hard question to answer, because it makes you think about all the things you didn't know in the past and how it negatively affected you. However, Pastor Adam gets personal and real once again and give these answers: 1. It's not a sprint. It's not a marathon. It's an Ironman. 2. Balance is a myth. 3. Your spouse is your teammate. 4. Don't be driven by, "other people need Jesus." Be driver by "I need Jesus."
After a break to celebrate our 1ooth episode, we are back in our current series where Pastor Adam is answering questions from rookie pastor, Matt Dalton. This week Adam talks through his biggest joy in ministry. It's all about family. From kids, to spouse, to extended family, Pastor Adam shares some of the biggest joys of his life in ministry. Adam shares about a current journey he feels like God has him on right now, and how he is taking steps to be obedient in that leading. If you have recently found yourself questioning your impact, your purpose, or your priorities, this episode will help you. "Well done good and faithful servant" might not have anything to do with the big things you do; it likely has to do with faithfulness with the things and people closest to you.
The Messy Walk Podcast turns 100! Join us for the 100th episode as Pastor Adam Cook shares the details about how we actually make the podcast happen, thanks some people working behind the scenes, reminisces about past guests, and talks about the future of the podcast. Thanks for being a faithful listener of the Messy Walk Podcast. This walk with Jesus is not easy. It is quite messy. It is frustrating at times. But, we are in this together. You are not alone in your walk with Christ. And, the Messy Walk Podcast is here to help.
We've had some good questions and answers so far in this series, but this one might take the cake. The rookie asks the veteran about his biggest mistake in ministry, and Pastor Adam doesn't hold back. This is honest, transparent, and raw and can help anyone avoid the natural tendency to carry weight that you weren't meant to carry. Pastor Adam says this is his favorite Messy Walk Podcast episode in a very long time, maybe even ever.
Unfortunately, we've all seen the headlines and documentaries about pastor and leaders falling from grace into some sort of scandal with money, sex, relationships, power-trips, or cover ups. Even worse, many of us know someone who isn't famous, but local to us, who has had the same issues. Today, rookie pastor, Matt Dalton, is asking veteran pastor, Adam Cook, about what has kept him from having one of these catastrophes. The answer is helpful in so many ways.
Have you ever seen someone have the "no regrets" tattoo, but it is misspelled to say "no regerts?" It's kinda funny. It's kinda sad. And, at the same time, it's a whole-lot-a true. It is often like that. We say we want to live a life of no regrets, but that just isn't an accurate representation of life. We all have regrets- especially as Christians. Continuing our current series, rookie pastor, Matt Dalton, asks veteran pastor, Adam Cook, a tough question about his regrets in ministry. Spoiler alert: there are quite a few.
One of the best ways to learn is by asking questions. And, on this messy walk with Jesus, we are all trying to learn and grow. If we will put aside our pride and take time to ask someone farther ahead than us, we can avoid some of their mistakes, be prepared for the future, and probably be reassured that we aren't crazy. For the next several weeks, rookie pastor, Matt Dalton, will host a series of questions to a veteran pastor, Adam Cook. These questions apply to anyone in any capacity of ministry or service in the church: volunteer, leader, staffer, pastor, etc...
Yes, you read that correctly! Episode 95 of our podcast is actually a rebroadcast of a previous episode. Pastor Adam Cook and Pastor Matt Dalton, along with some other pastors, are currently on a mission trip with Casas por Cristo in the Dominican Republic. In this episode, Allie Crabbs explains what the purpose is behind Casas por Cristo. She also explains a little about how life in the Dominican Republic differs from life in America.
After a two week break from Christmas and New Year's, the Messy Walk Podcast is back! We wrap up a lengthy series on the decline of the church in America with this 11th episode of Symptoms of a Dead Church. Today, Pastor Adam in joined by special guest, Marcie Hodges. Marcie grew up Catholic, has been a follower of Jesus for a long time, and is an airline flight attendant with Southwest Airlines. Her vast travels and interactions with people all over the country give her a unique perspective on why the church is declining rapidly. Marcie points to Christians not wanting or being hesitant to commit, and she and Pastor Adam talk through the growing distrust in the church and other institutions by non-Christians.
As the American church declines in attendance and membership, and we struggle to understand it, maybe our definition of "church" needs some work. Join Pastor Adam and special guest, Scott Limerick, for an honest look at issues in the American church. Scott currently serves with Compassion International as he works with local churches in America to rescue children out of poverty in the name of Jesus across the world. Scott shares his own messy walk, his encounter with Jesus, and his unique perspective on the decline of "church" in America. This is a "must-listen" episode.
Some of the reasons why the church in America is in decline are complex and compounded by many variables. Other reasons are quite simple. Special guest host, Olivea Cook, sits down with her dad, Pastor Adam, to discuss her perspective on this decline. And, her answer is quite simple. Coming from the point of view of a teenage Christian, Olivea shares her thoughts on young people being disillusioned with the church by Christians who are (without a better way to say it) fake. When we fail to practice what we preach, people are increasingly less attracted to faith in Jesus, or at least belonging to the church. The solution is quite simple as well.
What if one of the main causes of the decline of Christianity in America is not organizational? What if the root is not something the church is ignoring or doing wrong? What if it is deeper than that? Pastor Adam sits down with Mike Wallace, a pastor's kid and a retired police detective who spent 4 decades on the force, to discuss the lack of Godly male leadership in our communities. Through issues of his own, Mike discusses the need for me to be like Jesus and the sacrifice that requires. This discussion should spur us to see the long-term fruit in the next generation of real faith lived out and not just talked about.
So, the church in America is declining. What is causing that? Well, the fact that more and more pastors and ministry leaders are considering quitting might be a bigger reason than we think. The number that is really scary (and telling) is that over 50% of young pastors (millennials) are seriously considering leaving the ministry […]
What is causing such a steep decline in Christianity in the American Church? According to guest host Heaven Leigh Dalton (yes, that’s really her name), it comes down to deep divisions in the church and personal preferences. Maybe the church is alienating people and becoming less attractive to the younger generation because we are dying […]
Join us on a shorter episode for a pause from our current series as Chloe discusses what God is doing in her life right now and Adam discusses what’s next for the Messy Walk Podcast. Great things are ahead!
On today’s episode of the Messy Walk Podcast, Pastor Adam is joined by special guest Ian Duggar! Ian is a missionary in the Dominican Republic with an organization called Casas por Cristo along with his wife Alyssa. Join Pastor Adam Cook and Ian Duggar as they discuss Ian’s perspective on why the church in America […]
On today’s episode of the Messy Walk Podcast, Chloe is joined by special guest Tara Ferris! Tara has a blog called “The Church Hopper” where her goal is to visit all of the churches in Danville, Virginia (known to be the “city of churches”), and write honestly about her experiences at each church. We knew […]
For the first time in American history, membership in religious houses of worship has dropped below the majority line. And the decline has been steep and fast. In this episode, pastor Adam and guest host Stephanie Lee (she was also a guest on Episode 55 about Godly friendships) discuss another reason why the church is […]
There is no doubt that the church in American is in decline…steep decline. Statistics don’t lie, and our own personal experiences say the same. Join Pastor Adam and guest host, Pastor Matt Dalton, as they kick off a new series discussing the reasons the church is dying and what we can do about it. This […]
How do we know if the inspirational quotes and pieces of “wisdom” we hear all over social media are actually Godly and worth living by? In this series on true vs. false wisdom, we’re answering that very question! Join Pastor Adam and Chloe Lavinder as they “fact check” the phrase “now or never” and why […]
How do we know if the inspirational quotes and pieces of “wisdom” we hear all over social media are actually Godly and worth living by? In this series on true vs. false wisdom, we’re answering that very question! Join Pastor Adam and Chloe Lavinder as they “fact check” the phrase “all you need is ____” […]
How do we know if the inspirational quotes and pieces of “wisdom” we hear all over social media are actually Godly and worth living by? In this series on true vs. false wisdom, we’re answering that very question! Join Pastor Adam and Chloe Lavinder as they “fact check” the phrase “do good and good will […]
How do we know if the inspirational quotes and pieces of “wisdom” we hear all over social media are actually Godly and worth living by? In this series on true vs. false wisdom, we’re answering that very question! Join Pastor Adam and Chloe Lavinder as they “fact check” the phrase “people don’t change” and why […]
How do we know if the inspirational quotes and pieces of “wisdom” we hear all over social media are actually Godly and worth living by? In this series on true vs. false wisdom, we’re answering that very question! Join Pastor Adam and Chloe Lavinder as they “fact check” the phrase “you do you, boo” and […]
How do we know if the inspirational quotes and pieces of “wisdom” we hear all over social media are actually Godly and worth living by? In this series on true vs. false wisdom, we’re answering that very question! Join Pastor Adam and Chloe Lavinder as they “fact check” the phrase “do what makes you happy” […]
How do we know if the inspirational quotes and pieces of “wisdom” we hear all over social media are actually Godly and worth living by? In this series on true vs. false wisdom, we’re answering that very question! Join Pastor Adam and Chloe Lavinder as they “fact check” the phrase “do what you love and […]
How do we know if the inspirational quotes and pieces of “wisdom” we hear all over social media are actually Godly and worth living by? In this series on true vs. false wisdom, we’re answering that very question! Join Pastor Adam and Chloe Lavinder as they “fact check” the commonly heard phrase “it is what […]
How do we know if the inspirational quotes and pieces of “wisdom” we hear all over social media are actually Godly and worth living by? In this series on true vs. false wisdom, we’re answering that very question! Join Pastor Adam and Chloe Lavinder as they “fact check” a quote/common belief about going the extra […]
How do we know if the inspirational quotes and pieces of “wisdom” we hear all over social media are actually Godly and worth living by? In this series on true vs. false wisdom, we’re answering that very question! Join Pastor Adam and Chloe Lavinder as they “fact check” the commonly heard phrase “YOLO” and why […]
How do we know if the inspirational quotes and pieces of “wisdom” we hear all over social media are actually Godly and worth living by? In this series on true vs. false wisdom, we’re answering that very question! Join Pastor Adam and Chloe Lavinder as they talk through James 3:14-17 and how we can practically […]
We all have times when life has beaten us up and left us feeling worn out and discouraged. When we go through tough times like that, we often hear people tell us, “You need to spend some time with people!” While they aren’t wrong, that advice tends to feel pretty shallow. What if there was […]
We all have times when life has beaten us up and left us feeling worn out and discouraged. When we go through tough times like that, we often hear people tell us, “You need to get alone with God.” While they aren’t wrong, that advice tends to feel pretty shallow. What if we think outside […]
We all have times when life has beaten us up and left us feeling worn out and discouraged. When we go through tough times like that, we often hear people tell us, “Go to church, get filled up.” While they aren’t wrong, that advice tends to feel pretty shallow. What if there’s more about going […]
We all have times when life has beaten us up and left us feeling worn out and discouraged. When we go through tough times like that, we often hear people tell us, “Just have faith.” While they aren’t wrong, that advice tends to feel pretty shallow. What if there’s more to God than what you […]
We all have times when life has beaten us up and left us feeling worn out and discouraged. When we go through tough times like that, we often hear people tell us, “You should just get into The Word.” While they aren’t wrong, that advice tends to feel pretty shallow. What if there was more […]
We all have times when life has beaten us up and left us feeling worn out and discouraged. When we go through tough times like that, we often hear people tell us, “Well, just try to rest.” While they aren’t wrong, that advice tends to feel pretty shallow . What if there was more to […]
We all have times when life has beaten us up and left us feeling worn out and discouraged. When we go through tough times like that, we often hear people tell us, “Well, just pray about it.” While they aren’t wrong, that advice tends to feel pretty shallow. What if there was more to it […]
To wrap up our series on hearing from God, we’re talking through 5 ways (or, as we like to call them, the 5 W’s) to position ourselves to receive the guidance from God that we’ve been asking for. Join Pastor Adam Cook & Chloe Lavinder as they through what it looks like to respond to […]
To wrap up our series on hearing from God, we’re talking through 5 ways (or, as we like to call them, the 5 W’s) to position ourselves to receive the guidance from God that we’ve been asking for. Join Pastor Adam Cook & Chloe Lavinder as they talk through writing down both prayers and what […]
To wrap up our series on hearing from God, we’re talking through 5 ways (or, as we like to call them, the 5 W’s) to position ourselves to receive the guidance from God that we’ve been asking for. Join Pastor Adam Cook & Chloe Lavinder as they talk through what it looks like to WATCH […]
To wrap up our series on hearing from God, we’re talking through 5 ways (or, as we like to call them, the 5 W’s) to position ourselves to receive the guidance from God that we’ve been asking for. Join Pastor Adam Cook & Chloe Lavinder as they talk through what it looks like to WAIT […]
We’ve discussed the main different ways God speaks to us and how to ask to hear from God. Now, to wrap up this series on hearing from God, we’re talking through 5 ways (or, as we like to call them, the 5 W’s) to position ourselves to receive the guidance from Him that we’ve been […]
We all want to hear from God, so how can we position ourselves to be ready for what He has to say? Join Pastor Adam Cook, accompanied by Chloe Lavinder, as we discuss three way in which we can prepare ourselves to hear from God.
We believe that pain is a major way that God speaks to us. Sometimes it’s the only way He can catch our attention. Join Pastor Adam Cook, accompanied by Chloe Lavinder, as we discuss how it is that God speaks to us through our pain.
On this episode of the Messy Walk podcast, we are joined by special guest Tish McGeough as we discuss how to hear from God through the Spirit. Tish has such beautiful insight and wisdom to share on this topic. We hope you are encouraged by listening in on this conversation.
Have you ever been sitting in a church service, listening to the pastor teach, and thought “Wow, this message is just for me?” That is the PERFECT example of hearing God speak through gifted teachers, and that’s what we’re talking about in this second episode of our series on hearing from God.
God can speak to us in any way He chooses, but how can we know His voice? We believe there are a few primary ways that God most often chooses to speak to us, so that’s what we’re going to be talking about in this new series! Join Pastor Adam Cook, accompanied by Chloe Lavinder, […]
On this episode of the Messy Walk Podcast, we are joined by special guest Stephanie Lee as we discuss Godly friendships-how to be a Godly friend and what to look for in building Godly friendships. Stephanie has so much great perspective to share with us and we hope you enjoy getting to hear what’s on […]
In this final episode from our series on theology, we’re talking about “eschatology,” AKA the study of the end times! Join Pastor Adam Cook, accompanied by Chloe Lavinder, as we talk about the end times and what it really means for believers and non-believers.
We see them in movies and hear stories about them all the time. But what’s the truth about angels? Do we become angels when we die? Every time a bell rings, does an angel REALLY get its wings? These are all questions we can find answers to when we study “angelology,” AKA the study of […]
On this episode of the Messy Walk Podcast, we’re talking through “ecclesiology,” AKA the study of the church. Join Pastor Adam Cook, accompanied by Chloe Lavinder, as we discuss the study of the church and all the different opinions we find within the church!
On this episode of the Messy Walk Podcast we are talking through “pneumatology,” AKA the study of God the Holy Spirit. Join Pastor Adam Cook, accompanied by Chloe Lavinder, as we dive deeper into the topic of the third person of the Trinity!
On this episode of the Messy Walk Podcast, we are talking through “Christology,” AKA the study of the person and work of Jesus Christ! Join Pastor Adam Cook, accompanied by Chloe Lavinder, as we dive deeper into the topic of who Jesus is and what He has done for us.
There is SO much we can learn about God. We will never come to the end of Him. But why not start getting to know Him as much as we possibly can right now? Join Pastor Adam Cook, accompanied by Chloe Lavinder, as we talk through “theology proper,” AKA the study of the character and […]
To know God, we have to know His Word. Join Pastor Adam Cook, accompanied by Chloe Lavinder, as we continue our series on theology and talk about “bibliology,” AKA the study of the Bible!
Everyone’s a theologian, whether you want to be or not, so what are you doing to develop good theology? Join Pastor Adam Cook, accompanied by Chloe Lavinder, as we start a new series on the Messy Walk Podcast about theology, why it matters, and how theology is for everyone!
When it comes to giving your best, your best might look different from someone else’s. So why should we always aim to give our best? Join us on this episode of the Messy Walk Podcast with special guest Preston Daniels as we discuss doing everything we do for the glory of God and why it […]
Christmas can be a difficult time of year for many different reasons. But how do we refocus our hearts and minds on what Christmas is really supposed to be about? Join us on this episode of the Messy Walk Podcast as we hear from special guest Bay Harville. Bay shares with us how Christmas has […]
Whether you want to admit it or not, your family is dysfunctional. EVERY family is dysfunctional. And you might be able to avoid them all throughout the year, but it’s hard to avoid them at Christmastime. Join us on this episode of the Messy Walk Podcast with Pastor Adam Cook as we talk about representing […]
It’s Christmastime and EVERYBODY is excited, right?! Well, kinda. In this Christmas episode of the Messy Walk Podcast, Pastor Adam shares a few reasons why he doesn’t exactly love Christmas and how he’s trying to grow from that!
In the final episode of our series “Sins Christians Ignore That Mess Us Up,” we’re talking about fear and anxiety! Join Pastor Adam, accompanied by Chloe Lavinder, as we discuss the real reason we truly have NOTHING to fear.
In the era of social media that we are living in, it’s hard to not fill every waking moment with something. It’s no wonder we are almost always feeling burned out and exhausted. Join us on this VERY SPECIAL episode of the Messy Walk Podcast with special guest Allie Crabbs as we talk through the […]
On this episode of the Messy Walk Podcast, join Pastor Adam, accompanied by Chloe Lavinder, as we talk through a common sin that can be seen in all parts of the world, but is more strongly seen here in the US: comfort. Check it out!
In last week’s episode of the Messy Walk Podcast, we mentioned that pride has an ugly twin brother. This week, join Pastor Adam Cook, accompanied by Chloe Lavinder, as we talk about what that ugly twin brother is. You might be surprised how much this episode applies to your life personally!
When you look at a group photo, who do you look at in the photo first? Yourself. Yep. That’s how we know EVERYBODY struggles with pride! Join Pastor Adam Cook, accompanied by Chloe Lavinder, as we discuss pride and how it’s more dangerous than we might think!
Join Pastor Adam, accompanied by Chloe Lavinder, for a shorter episode from our series “Sins Christians Ignore that Mess Us Up” as we read and briefly discuss some Scripture about truly loving one another. The Bible puts so much emphasis on loving one another deeply, so what’s stopping us from obeying these commands?
A big part of our calling as Christians is to share our faith with those around us. So why aren’t we doing it more? Where can we start? Join Pastor Adam, accompanied by Chloe Lavinder, for another episode from our series “Sins Christians Ignore That Mess Us Up!”
Join Pastor Adam, accompanied by Chloe Lavinder, as we continue our series “Sins Christians Ignore That Mess Us Up” for a conversation on what it looks like to truly honor our parents and what the Bible tells us about it!
“When we make a good thing an ULTIMATE thing, it becomes destructive.” Join Pastor Adam, accompanied by Chloe Lavinder, as we talk through what we think is the most acceptable sin in the church and how it involves more in our lives than we might think.
Gossip. We all do it. But what does the Bible say about it? What if the definition of gossip is much bigger than what we’ve always thought? Join Pastor Adam Cook, accompanied by Chloe Lavinder, as we dive into this topic in the first episode of a series we’re calling “Sins Christians Ignore That Mess […]
‘The Bible tells us to “carry each other’s burdens,” but what does that really mean? How do we do that, and what exactly is a burden? Join Pastor Adam Cook, accompanied by Chloe Lavinder, for a discussion on Galatians 6:2 and the call that every Christian has to carry each other’s burdens.
One of the major lies our culture tries to sell is that women are more emotional than men and that if men cry, it makes them “weak.” That couldn’t be farther from the truth! Join Pastor Adam Cook, accompanied by Chloe Lavinder, as we discuss how men might actually be more emotional than women and […]
We’re finally finishing our series on spiritual warfare and the armor of God! Join Pastor Adam Cook, accompanied by Chloe Lavinder, for the final episode on this topic as we discuss what exactly as “Christian bodybuilder” is and whey there are so many today.
We can’t out reason the lies the enemy throws at us, but we do have a weapon to use to fight back with. Join Pastor Adam Cook, accompanied by Chloe Lavinder, as we talk through 8 common lies the enemy throws at all of us and how we can fight back against them.
Yes, you read that title right! Join Pastor Adam, accompanied by Chloe Lavinder, in a conversation about peacemaking vs. peacekeeping and where our feet come into play in spiritual warfare.
“Jesus takes our love handles of sin and gives us his abs of righteousness.” What does that mean exactly? Join Pastor Adam Cook, accompanied by Chloe Lavinder, as we get personal talking through the second piece of the armor of God–the breastplate of righteousness–in part 4 of a discussion on spiritual warfare.
If you’re going to war, you’re going to need a strong belt to hold all your armor together. Join Pastor Adam Cook, accompanied by Chloe Lavinder, as we discuss the first piece of the armor of God in part 3 of a discussion on spiritual warfare.
When it comes to spiritual warfare, we have to stand our ground. We can’t run from this fight. Join Pastor Adam Cook, accompanied by Chloe Lavinder, as we continue in part 2 of our discussion on spiritual warfare.
Some of us take the devil too seriously, and some of us don’t take the devil seriously enough. Join Pastor Adam Cook, accompanied by Chloe Lavinder, as we begin a discussion on the reality of spiritual warfare.
The life of a missionary may look different from ours, but they have messy walks with Jesus, too! Join Pastor Adam Cook, accompanied by Chloe Lavinder, as we hear from special guest Josh Crabbs on what it’s REALLY like being a missionary in the Dominican Republic.
Join us on this special episode of The Messy Walk podcast where Adam discusses his time in the Dominican Republic and what cool perspectives he and the team have learned.
Whether it’s Gentile or Jew, Black or White, Asian or Hispanic, there have always been different ethnicities and cultures throughout history, and none are excluded from grace. Join Pastor Adam Cook, accompanied by Graham Beasley in this episode of The Messy Walk podcast as we talk about how Jesus combats racism in the scriptures.
Historically, women in many cultures have been looked down upon and even seen as less valuable, but Jesus sees them in a different light. Join Pastor Adam Cook, accompanied by Graham Beasley in this episode of The Messy Walk podcast as we discuss how Jesus combats sexism.
Last week we talked about why Jesus had to suffer, and why as Christ followers we are to expect suffering in our lives too. Join Pastor Adam Cook, accompanied by Graham Beasley in this week’s episode of The Messy Walk podcast as we dive deeper into this discussion.
Jesus’ walk on this earth was messy, perfect, and without sin. Jesus lived the life we couldn’t live, but He did face sufferings. Join Pastor Adam Cook, accompanied by Graham Beasley in this week’s episode of the Messy Walk Podcast as we dive into the life of Jesus.
We exercise faith by obeying, boldly, what God commands us to do. Join Pastor Adam Cook, accompanied by Graham Beasley as we discuss why faith is crucial to obeying God.
When we obey God, we see Him move. Join Pastor Adam Cook, accompanied by Graham Beasley as we discuss why we see God’s miracles whenever we obey Him.
As Christians we should trust and obey what God commands, and at times our obedience is faced with severe opposition. Join Pastor Adam Cook, accompanied by Graham Beasley in this episode of the Messy Walk Podcast as we discuss why facing opposition is a good thing.
Why would we not trust God who is sovereign over all things? How does believing in God’s sovereignty help build our faith? Join Pastor Adam, accompanied by Graham Beasley, in this episode of the Messy Walk Podcast as we discuss the amazing reality of God’s sovereignty.
One way to build our faith is to fix our eyes on the Author and Perfecter of our faith, Jesus. Join Pastor Adam, accompanied by Graham Beasley, in this episode of the Messy Walk Podcast as we discuss how we can practically fix our eyes on Jesus.
As a Christian, have you ever wondered at times what is the source of our anxiety? Many have but hardly few will admit to its deep root reason. Join Pastor Adam, accompanied by Graham Beasley in this episode of the Messy Walk Podcast as we dive into this very question.
Not everyone can relate to being a pastor, but many can relate to being a Christian. Join Pastor Adam Cook, accompanied by Graham Beasley in this week’s episode of the Messy Walk Podcast as we discuss some brutal confessions most Christians don’t want to admit.
Last week’s talk introduced the idea of choosing to surrender over taking control. Join Pastor Adam, accompanied by Graham Beasley, in an honest discussion on why we should surrender to Christ and give up control in this week’s episode of the Messy Walk Podcast.
The question isn’t “Are you a control freak?” Rather, “What do you tend to be a control freak about?” Join Pastor Adam Cook, accompanied by Graham Beasley, as we discuss the problem of control in everyone’s life in this week’s episode of the Messy Walk Podcast.
Last week’s talk introduced the idea of choosing what is urgent over what is important. Join Pastor Adam Cook, accompanied by Graham Beasley, as we continue this discussion in this week’s episode of the Messy Walk Podcast.
We all tend to focus on the urgencies in our lives rather than the important matters. As we continue to neglect the important matters in life, we create even more urgencies. Join Pastor Adam Cook, accompanied by Graham Beasley, as we discuss why we focus on urgencies rather than what is important.
Last week’s talk introduced the idea of choosing discipline over regrets. Join Pastor Adam Cook, accompanied by Graham Beasley, in a discussion on how we can practically deal with our regrets biblically.
Let’s face it, we all have regrets. But how should we view our regrets? Why is it that we have regrets? Join Pastor Adam Cook, accompanied by Graham Beasley, in this episode of The Messy Walk Podcast as we dive into these very topics.
The Christian life starts messy and will continue messy. Listen in as Pastor Adam, accompanied by Graham Beasley, discuss the modern Christian walk and its struggles, in this Episode of The Messy Walk Podcast.
Paralyzation and a lost father is today’s topic. Make sure to tune in as Adam Cook, accompanied by Graham Beasley, discusses his early call into ministry as a twenty-year-old minister, in this Episode of The Messy Walk Podcast.
The difficulties of being a young Christian is hard, being young and Christian can sometimes be even harder. Listen as Adam Cook, accompanied by Graham Beasley, discuss the difficulties of being young in age and faith, in this episode of The Messy Walk Podcast.
“If we are presenting to people that we have it all together then we are presenting to God that we have it all together.” – Adam Cook, 2021. This is the brutal truth. Listen as Adam Cook, accompanied by Graham Beasley, dive into the realities of the Christian faith, and its difficulties on this episode […]