Grit & Glory, Songs & Stories: Recent Episodes
Mark Alewine
Do you love God? Are you looking to feed your spirit and fuel your faith? If so, this podcast is for you! Encouragement, inspiration and motivation for the week is brought to you through songs and stories of ordinary people living extraordinary lives. Your host, Mark Alewine, is a relatable, Jesus-loving, singer/songwriter whose music can be found on most music apps.
On this final episode of "Grit & Glory, Songs & Stories", Mark and Chris Gallagher give you a glimpse of what’s next for them and what’s possible for you through strategic connections built within the New Prime Mastermind (previously called PackLife). Hint: Your future self will thank you!
GUEST: Chris Gallagher
HOST: Mark Alewine
About Mark
Mark’s Recovery Story
AS MENTIONED ON THE SHOW:
New Prime is a mastermind for Christian men ready to defy the culture, unlock their God-given potential and find their New Prime. New Prime is defined NOT as a fleeting stage of life, but an intentional way of living according to God’s original design, impacting every area of life.
Weekly meetings are facilitated by Mark Alewine and Chris Gallagher. Based on their combined 50+ years serving as pastors, leading men and participating in numerous communities and groups, Mark and Chris have seen first-hand what works and doesn’t work for Christian men to live their God-given identity with powerful purpose.
Text Mark 952-373-1813 or Chris 256-297-1430 to schedule a time to explore what the New Prime mastermind might make possible in your life!
FAQ: Yes, this is the last episode of Grit & Glory, Songs & Stories, but it will remain available on most of the podcast apps.
YOU’RE INVITED:
Monthly God-stories call with Mark and Cindy
Friends (email) Group - Get updates, invites and exclusive access to a member’s pages on the website. Join here
Private Facebook Group “Friends of Mark Alewine Music” - Request Access (email required)
MORE FROM MARK:
More Music - Find Mark’s music on your favorite music app or in his Song Library. CDs are also available.
Custom Song - Mark and his wife, Cindy, empower individuals and businesses to express their unique messages in the form of a custom-crafted song. Hear Samples
Join Mark and Chris Gallagher as they share some big news and spotlight stories of men redefining their “prime of life”.
GUEST: Chris Gallagher
HOST: Mark Alewine
About Mark
Mark’s Recovery Story
AS MENTIONED ON THE SHOW:
PackLife is a mastermind for Christian men ready to defy the culture, unlock their God-given potential and find their New Prime. New Prime is defined NOT as a fleeting stage of life, but an intentional way of living according to God’s original design, impacting every area of life.
Weekly meetings are facilitated by Mark Alewine and Chris Gallagher. Based on their combined 50+ years serving as pastors, leading men and participating in numerous communities and groups, Mark and Chris have seen first-hand what works and doesn’t work for Christian men to live their God-given identity with powerful purpose.
Text Mark 952-373-1813 or Chris 256-297-1430 to schedule a time to explore what PackLife might make possible in your life!
YOU’RE INVITED:
Monthly God-stories call with Mark and Cindy
Friends (email) Group - Get updates, invites and exclusive access to a member’s pages on the website. Join here
Private Facebook Group “Friends of Mark Alewine Music” - Request Access (email required)
MORE FROM MARK:
More Music - Find Mark’s music on your favorite music app or in his Song Library. CDs are also available.
Custom Song - Mark and his wife, Cindy, empower individuals and businesses to express their unique messages in the form of a custom-crafted song. Hear Samples
Daniel Crandall returns to share his family’s adoption journey that just might disrupt a stereotype or two and for sure will give fresh insight on your adoption by God.
FEATURED SONG: I See You
GUEST: Daniel Crandall
Visit Daniel’s website to learn how his creative services might benefit you!
HOST: Mark Alewine
About Mark
Mark’s Recovery Story
AS MENTIONED ON THE SHOW:
If you have an adoption story you would like to share, sign up for our next free, monthly God-stories call. Here’s the link to sign up for the Monthly God-stories call with Mark and Cindy.
YOU’RE INVITED:
Friends (email) Group - Get updates, invites and exclusive access to a member’s pages on the website. Join here
Private Facebook Group “Friends of Mark Alewine Music” - Request Access (email required)
MORE FROM MARK:
More Music - Find Mark’s music on your favorite music app or in his Song Library. CDs are also available.
Christian Men’s Mastermind - A mastermind is simply a group of people with similar goals and challenges who rely on each other for accountability, advice, and support. Mark facilitates weekly, 1-hour meetings characterized by sharing life and drawing upon the collective wisdom and experience of the group. The goal is to energize, encourage and pray for each other while training in our God-given identities. This may be one of the best investments you’ll ever make in yourself. Explore more
Custom Song - Mark and his wife, Cindy, empower individuals and businesses to express their unique messages in the form of a custom-crafted song. Hear Samples
Daniel Crandall joins Mark to share a wealth of insight into the spiritual roots of the creative process and how community and creativity are interwoven.
FEATURED SONG: I See You
GUEST: Daniel Crandall
Visit Daniel’s website to learn how his creative services might benefit you!
HOST: Mark Alewine
About Mark
Mark’s Recovery Story
AS MENTIONED ON THE SHOW:
Whether you’re trying to create something or going through something, don’t go it alone. A right fit community is exceedingly valuable! I invite you to check out the weekly mastermind community that I host for men called PackLife. It might be the best investment you’ve ever made in yourself.
YOU’RE INVITED:
Monthly God-stories call with Mark and Cindy
Friends (email) Group - Get updates, invites and exclusive access to a member’s pages on the website. Join here
Private Facebook Group “Friends of Mark Alewine Music” - Request Access (email required)
MORE FROM MARK:
More Music - Find Mark’s music on your favorite music app or in his Song Library. CDs are also available.
Christian Men’s Mastermind - A mastermind is simply a group of people with similar goals and challenges who rely on each other for accountability, advice, and support. Mark facilitates weekly, 1-hour meetings characterized by sharing life and drawing upon the collective wisdom and experience of the group. The goal is to energize, encourage and pray for each other while training in our God-given identities. This may be one of the best investments you’ll ever make in yourself. Explore more
Custom Song - Mark and his wife, Cindy, empower individuals and businesses to express their unique messages in the form of a custom-crafted song. Hear Samples
Jason Goff and Mark delve into a heartwarming discussion of everyday blessings, the profound impact of mentors, God’s presence in our lives as well as embracing opportunities disguised as challenges.
FEATURED SONG: Enough
GUEST: Jason Goff
HOST: Mark Alewine
About Mark
Mark’s Recovery Story
AS MENTIONED ON THE SHOW:
Monthly God-stories call - Do you long to be more aware of God working in your life or to share God-stories of your own? If so, consider this Mark’s personal invitation to join him and Cindy once a month for a special God-stories video call. Click the link to find dates and registration.
Lyric Video for the song, ENOUGH
YOU’RE INVITED:
Friends (email) Group - Get updates, invites and exclusive access to a member’s pages on the website. Join here
Private Facebook Group “Friends of Mark Alewine Music” - Request Access (email required)
MORE FROM MARK:
More Music - Find Mark’s music on your favorite music app or in his Song Library. CDs are also available.
PackLife Christian Men’s Mastermind - A mastermind is simply a group of people with similar goals and challenges who rely on each other for accountability, advice, and support. Mark facilitates weekly, 1-hour meetings characterized by sharing life and drawing upon the collective wisdom and experience of the group. The goal is to energize, encourage and pray for each other while training in our God-given identities. This may be one of the best investments you’ll ever make in yourself. Explore more
Custom Song - Mark and his wife, Cindy, empower individuals and businesses to express their unique messages in the form of a custom-crafted song. Hear Samples
Jason Goff joins Mark for a deep dive into overcoming the enemy's lies and ways to “do” community in order to live a successful and holy life as God intended. Stay tuned!
FEATURED SONG: Enough
GUEST: Jason Goff
HOST: Mark Alewine
About Mark
Mark’s Recovery Story
AS MENTIONED ON THE SHOW:
PackLife Christian Men’s Mastermind - A mastermind is simply a group of people with similar goals and challenges who rely on each other for accountability, advice, and support. Mark facilitates weekly, 1-hour meetings characterized by sharing life and drawing upon the collective wisdom and experience of the group. The goal is to energize, encourage and pray for each other while training in our God-given identities. This may be one of the best investments you’ll ever make in yourself. Explore more
Lyric Video for the song, ENOUGH
YOU’RE INVITED:
Friends (email) Group - Get updates, invites and exclusive access to a member’s pages on the website. Join here
Private Facebook Group “Friends of Mark Alewine Music” - Request Access (email required)
Monthly God-stories call with Mark and Cindy
MORE FROM MARK:
More Music - Find Mark’s music on your favorite music app or in his Song Library. CDs are also available.
Custom Song - Mark and his wife, Cindy, empower individuals and businesses to express their unique messages in the form of a custom-crafted song. Hear Samples
God sees you and the impossibilities you might face today or in the
future. He’s already preparing a way for you. Listen closely as Leigh and
I continue to share God-stories that will inspire faith and hope.
FEATURED SONG: I See You
GUEST: Leigh Taylor Pennington
HOST: Mark Alewine
About Mark
Mark’s Recovery Story
AS MENTIONED ON THE SHOW
Monthly God-stories call with Mark and Cindy
YOU’RE INVITED:
Friends (email) Group - Get updates, invites and exclusive access to a member’s pages on the website. Join here
Private Facebook Group “Friends of Mark Alewine Music” - Request Access (email required)
MORE FROM MARK:
More Music - Find Mark’s music on your favorite music app or in his Song Library. CDs are also available.
Christian Men’s Mastermind - A mastermind is simply a group of people with similar goals and challenges who rely on each other for accountability, advice, and support. Mark facilitates weekly, 1-hour meetings characterized by sharing life and drawing upon the collective wisdom and experience of the group. The goal is to energize, encourage and pray for each other while training in our God-given identities. This may be one of the best investments you’ll ever make in yourself. Explore more
Custom Song - Mark and his wife, Cindy, empower individuals and businesses to express their unique messages in the form of a custom-crafted song. Hear Samples
OTHER EPISODES YOU MIGHT BE INTERESTED IN:
Hear from other Grit & Glory, Songs & Stories guests who’ve suffered trauma from abuse:
- Mark’s Story Impossible is Possible-014
- Mike’s Story (2 parts) Recovery Beautiful-018 Recovery Beautiful-Episode 019
- Kathy’s Story Impossible is Possible Part 2
- Tracy’s Story Lifted Up and Standing Strong-023
- More from Leigh Personal Stories to Help You Overcome Bitterness and Forgiveness
Share your story with Mark and request prayer mark@markalewinemusic.com
Like too many others, Mark and his guest, Leigh Pennington, have experienced trauma from abuse. This episode gives raw but hopeful glimpses into their ongoing journeys toward healing and forgiveness. Perhaps this is where God wants to bring you as well.
FEATURED SONG: I See You
GUEST: Leigh Taylor Pennington
HOST: Mark Alewine
About Mark
Mark’s Recovery Story
AS MENTIONED ON THE SHOW:
Share your story with Mark and request prayer mark@markalewinemusic.com
Hear from other Grit & Glory, Songs & Stories guests who’ve suffered trauma from abuse:
- Mark’s Story Impossible is Possible-014
- Mike’s Story (2 parts) Recovery Beautiful-018 Recovery Beautiful-Episode 019
- Kathy’s Story Impossible is Possible Part 2
- Tracy’s Story Lifted Up and Standing Strong-023
YOU’RE INVITED:
Monthly God-stories call with Mark and Cindy
Friends (email) Group - Get updates, invites and exclusive access to a member’s pages on the website. Join here
Private Facebook Group “Friends of Mark Alewine Music” - Request Access (email required)
MORE FROM MARK:
More Music - Find Mark’s music on your favorite music app or in his Song Library. CDs are also available.
Christian Men’s Mastermind - A mastermind is simply a group of people with similar goals and challenges who rely on each other for accountability, advice, and support. Mark facilitates weekly, 1-hour meetings characterized by sharing life and drawing upon the collective wisdom and experience of the group. The goal is to energize, encourage and pray for each other while training in our God-given identities. This may be one of the best investments you’ll ever make in yourself. Explore more
Custom Song - Mark and his wife, Cindy, empower individuals and businesses to express their unique messages in the form of a custom-crafted song. Hear Samples
FEATURED SONG: Fly with the Eagles
GUEST: ROXANNE BOCYCK
Roxanne Bocyck lives in Syracuse, New York and enjoys encouraging others and bringing people together. She began her author career by writing feature stories for two weekly newspapers in her hometown. Inspired by real events, her debut novel ‘Catherine’s Dream’ is a testament to the power and possibility of nurturing one’s ambitions against all odds and overcoming fear and doubt with faith and determination.
Special offer: Roxanne is offering a digital download of her book. Visit https://www.catherinesdreamgift.com/
To learn more about Roxanne visit her website: https://roxannebocyck.com/
ALSO AS MENTIONED ON THE SHOW:
As you’ll hear in today’s episode, community is vital to living life at its best. That’s why Mark enjoys facilitating PackLife Men - a community of like-minded Christian men that train together to fight through vulnerabilities, thrive spiritually and lead well despite today’s toxic culture. It might just be the best investment you’ve ever made in yourself.
Mark and Roxanne met through the 48 Days Eagles community. It’s had significant positive impact in Mark and Cindy’s lives. Find out if it would be a good fit for you as well.
HOST: MARK ALEWINE
About Mark
Mark’s Recovery Story
Christian Men’s Mastermind - A mastermind is simply a group of people with similar goals and challenges who rely on each other for accountability, advice, and support. Mark facilitates weekly, 1-hour meetings characterized by sharing life and drawing upon the collective wisdom and experience of the group. The goal is to energize, encourage and pray for each other while training in our God-given identities. This may be one of the best investments you’ll ever make in yourself. Explore more
More Music - Find Mark’s music on your favorite music app or in his Song Library. CDs are also available.
Custom Song - Mark and his wife, Cindy, empower individuals and businesses to express their unique messages in the form of a custom-crafted song. Hear Samples
YOU’RE INVITED:
Friends (email) Group - Get updates, invites and exclusive access to a member’s pages on the website. Join here
God-Stories (Video) Call - Join Mark and Cindy on the monthly God-stories call. It’s your chance to share your God-stories with an interested group as well as get to know and be encouraged by others and their God-stories. Sign up
Private Facebook Group “Friends of Mark Alewine Music” - Request Access (email required)
FEATURED SONG: Fly with the Eagles
GUEST: ROXANNE BOCYCK
Roxanne Bocyck lives in Syracuse, New York and enjoys encouraging others and bringing people together. She began her author career by writing feature stories for two weekly newspapers in her hometown. Inspired by real events, her debut novel ‘Catherine’s Dream’ is a testament to the power and possibility of nurturing one’s ambitions against all odds and overcoming fear and doubt with faith and determination.
Special offer: Roxanne is offering a digital download of her book. Visit https://www.catherinesdreamgift.com/
To learn more about Roxanne visit her website: https://roxannebocyck.com/
ALSO AS MENTIONED ON THE SHOW:
As you’ll hear in today’s episode, community is vital to living life at its best. That’s why Mark enjoys facilitating PackLife Men - a community of like-minded Christian men that train together to fight through vulnerabilities, thrive spiritually and lead well despite today’s toxic culture. It might just be the best investment you’ve ever made in yourself.
Mark and Roxanne met through the 48 Days Eagles community. It’s had significant positive impact in Mark and Cindy’s lives. Find out if it would be a good fit for you as well.
HOST: MARK ALEWINE
About Mark
Mark’s Recovery Story
Christian Men’s Mastermind - A mastermind is simply a group of people with similar goals and challenges who rely on each other for accountability, advice, and support. Mark facilitates weekly, 1-hour meetings characterized by sharing life and drawing upon the collective wisdom and experience of the group. The goal is to energize, encourage and pray for each other while training in our God-given identities. This may be one of the best investments you’ll ever make in yourself. Explore more
More Music - Find Mark’s music on your favorite music app or in his Song Library. CDs are also available.
Custom Song - Mark and his wife, Cindy, empower individuals and businesses to express their unique messages in the form of a custom-crafted song. Hear Samples
YOU’RE INVITED:
Friends (email) Group - Get updates, invites and exclusive access to a member’s pages on the website. Join here
God-Stories (Video) Call - Join Mark and Cindy on the monthly God-stories call. It’s your chance to share your God-stories with an interested group as well as get to know and be encouraged by others and their God-stories. Sign up
Private Facebook Group “Friends of Mark Alewine Music” - Request Access (email required)
Denny McCormick and Mark share some “meat and potato” God-stories, advice and encouragement.
FEATURED SONG: Unshaken
AS MENTIONED ON THE SHOW:
As you’ll hear in today’s episode, community is vital to living life at its best. That’s why Mark enjoys facilitating PackLife Men - a community of like-minded Christian men that train together to fight through vulnerabilities, thrive spiritually and lead well despite today’s toxic culture. It might just be the best investment you’ve ever made in yourself.
HOST: MARK ALEWINE
About Mark
Mark’s Recovery Story
Christian Men’s Mastermind - A mastermind is simply a group of people with similar goals and challenges who rely on each other for accountability, advice, and support. Mark facilitates weekly, 1-hour meetings characterized by sharing life and drawing upon the collective wisdom and experience of the group. The goal is to energize, encourage and pray for each other while training in our God-given identities. This may be one of the best investments you’ll ever make in yourself. Explore more
More Music - Find Mark’s music on your favorite music app or in his Song Library. CDs are also available.
Custom Song - Mark and his wife, Cindy, empower individuals and businesses to express their unique messages in the form of a custom-crafted song. Hear Samples
YOU’RE INVITED:
Friends (email) Group - Get updates, invites and exclusive access to a member’s pages on the website. Join here
God-Stories (Video) Call - Join Mark and Cindy on the monthly God-stories call. It’s your chance to share your God-stories with an interested group as well as get to know and be encouraged by others and their God-stories. Sign up
Private Facebook Group “Friends of Mark Alewine Music” - Request Access (email required)
Denny McCormick joins Mark to reflect on the interesting ways God works in our lives and the challenge to live life unshaken.
FEATURED SONG: Unshaken
AS MENTIONED ON THE SHOW:
Custom Song - Songs like Unshaken capture emotion and memories in a way nothing else can. Do you have a special event or memory you’d like to put into a custom song of lasting impact? Hear Samples
HOST: MARK ALEWINE
About Mark
Mark’s Recovery Story
Christian Men’s Mastermind - A mastermind is simply a group of people with similar goals and challenges who rely on each other for accountability, advice, and support. Mark facilitates weekly, 1-hour meetings characterized by sharing life and drawing upon the collective wisdom and experience of the group. The goal is to energize, encourage and pray for each other while training in our God-given identities. This may be one of the best investments you’ll ever make in yourself. Explore more
More Music - Find Mark’s music on your favorite music app or in his Song Library. CDs are also available.
Custom Song - Mark and his wife, Cindy, empower individuals and businesses to express their unique messages in the form of a custom-crafted song. Hear Samples
YOU’RE INVITED:
Friends (email) Group - Get updates, invites and exclusive access to a member’s pages on the website. Join here
God-Stories (Video) Call - Join Mark and Cindy on the monthly God-stories call. It’s your chance to share your God-stories with an interested group as well as get to know and be encouraged by others and their God-stories. Sign up
Private Facebook Group “Friends of Mark Alewine Music” - Request Access (email required)
Dan Miller, best-selling author of 48 Days to the Work and Life You Love, career coach and founder of the 48 Days Eagles Community, joins Mark to talk music, marriage advice and to share his beautiful God-story of the birth of “48 Days…”
FEATURED SONG: Fly with the Eagles
GUEST: DAN MILLER
Mark and Cindy have benefited greatly from being part of Dan Miller’s 48 Days Eagles Community. Dan says that songs unite and bond people in a way nothing else can. That’s why he plays Mark’s custom song, Fly with the Eagles, at his weekly meetings and events. Visit Dan’s website to learn more about Dan’s books, assessments, podcasts and more!
AS MENTIONED ON THE SHOW:
God-Stories (Video) Call - Join Mark and Cindy on the monthly God-stories call. It’s your chance to share your God-stories with an interested group as well as get to know and be encouraged by others and their God-stories. Sign up
HOST: MARK ALEWINE
About Mark
Mark’s Recovery Story
Christian Men’s Mastermind - A mastermind is simply a group of people with similar goals and challenges who rely on each other for accountability, advice, and support. Mark facilitates weekly, 1-hour meetings characterized by sharing life and drawing upon the collective wisdom and experience of the group. The goal is to energize, encourage and pray for each other while training in our God-given identities. This may be one of the best investments you’ll ever make in yourself. Explore more
Custom Song - Mark and his wife, Cindy, empower individuals and businesses to express their unique messages in the form of a custom-crafted song. Hear Samples
More Music - Find Mark’s music on your favorite music app or in his Song Library. CDs are also available.
YOU’RE INVITED:
Friends (email) Group - Get updates, invites and exclusive access to a member’s pages on the website. Join here
Private Facebook Group “Friends of Mark Alewine Music” - Request Access (email required)
Dan Miller, best-selling author of 48 Days to the Work and Life You Love and founder of the 48 Days Eagles Community joins Mark to discuss the song Fly with the Eagles and many other interesting stories.
FEATURED SONG: Fly with the Eagles
GUEST: DAN MILLER
Mark and Cindy have benefited greatly from being part of Dan Miller’s 48 Days Eagles Community. Dan says that songs unite and bond people in a way nothing else can. That’s why he plays Mark’s custom song, Fly with the Eagles, at his weekly meetings and events. Visit Dan’s website to learn more about Dan’s books, assessments, podcasts and more!
HOST: MARK ALEWINE
- About Mark
- Mark’s Recovery Story
- Christian Men’s Mastermind - A mastermind is simply a group of people with similar goals and challenges who rely on each other for accountability, advice, and support. Mark facilitates weekly, 1-hour meetings characterized by sharing life and drawing upon the collective wisdom and experience of the group. The goal is to energize, encourage and pray for each other while training in our God-given identities. This may be one of the best investments you’ll ever make in yourself. Explore more
- Custom Song - Mark and his wife, Cindy, empower individuals and businesses to express their unique messages in the form of a custom-crafted song. Hear Samples
- More Music - Find Mark’s music on your favorite music app or in his Song Library. CDs are also available.
YOU’RE INVITED:
- God-Stories (Video) Call - Join Mark and Cindy on the monthly God-stories call. It’s your chance to share your God-stories with an interested group as well as get to know and be encouraged by others and their God-stories. Sign up
- Friends (email) Group - Get updates, invites and exclusive access to a member’s pages on the website. Join here
- Private Facebook Group “Friends of Mark Alewine Music” - Request Access (email required)
#GGSSPodcast, #MarkAlewineMusic
Katie Hornor joins Mark to discuss marriage tips and music that helped her and her husband navigate tough times.
MORE TO EXPLORE:
FEATURED SONG: My Flamingo Advantage
GUEST: KATIE HORNOR
Katie is a dynamic business coach for faith-based entrepreneurs and has been instrumental (no pun intended!) in Mark and Cindy’s life and business. Katie recognizes the power of music and had Mark and Cindy write a custom song for her business. That’s how “My Flamingo Advantage” came about. Visit Katie’s website for a wealth of faith-building resources including her books, TV Documentary, podcast and much more!
HOST: MARK ALEWINE
- About Mark >>
- Mark’s Recovery Story >>
- Christian Men’s Mastermind >> A mastermind is simply a group of people with similar goals and challenges who rely on each other for accountability, advice, and support. Mark facilitates weekly, 1-hour meetings characterized by sharing life and drawing upon the collective wisdom and experience of the group. The goal is to energize, encourage and pray for each other while training in our God-given identities. This may be one of the best investments you’ll ever make in yourself. Explore more >>
- Custom Song >> Mark and his wife, Cindy, empower individuals and businesses to express their unique messages in the form of a custom-crafted song. Hear Samples >>
- More Music - Find Mark’s music on your favorite music app >> or in his Song Library >>. CDs >> are also available.
YOU’RE INVITED:
- God-Stories (Video) Call >> Join Mark and Cindy on the monthly God-stories call. It’s your chance to share your God-stories with an interested group as well as get to know and be encouraged by others and their God-stories. Sign up >>
- Friends (email) Group >> Get updates, invites and exclusive access to a member’s pages on the website. Join here >>
- Private Facebook Group “Friends of Mark Alewine Music” - Request Access (email required) >>
Katie Hornor (aka The Flamingo Lady) joins Mark to share powerful object lessons about confidence and identity in Christ as learned from…flamingos.
MORE TO EXPLORE:
Hear the featured song My Flamingo Advanage >>
GUEST: KATIE HORNOR
- Here’s Katie’s website where you can find her books, TV Documentary, podcast and much more!
HOST: MARK ALEWINE
- About Mark >>
- Mark’s Recovery Story >>
- Christian Men’s Mastermind >> A mastermind is simply a group of people with similar goals and challenges who rely on each other for accountability, advice, and support. Mark facilitates weekly, 1-hour meetings characterized by sharing life and drawing upon the collective wisdom and experience of the group. The goal is to energize, encourage and pray for each other while training in our God-given identities. This may be one of the best investments you’ll ever make in yourself. Explore more >>
- Custom Song >> Mark and his wife, Cindy, empower individuals and businesses to express their unique messages in the form of a custom-crafted song. Hear Samples >>
- More Music - Find Mark’s music on your favorite music app >> or in his Song Library >>. CDs >> are also available.
YOU’RE INVITED:
- God-Stories (Video) Call >> Join Mark and Cindy on the monthly God-stories call. It’s your chance to share your God-stories with an interested group as well as get to know and be encouraged by others and their God-stories. Sign up >>
- Friends (email) Group >> Get updates, invites and exclusive access to a member’s pages on the website. Join here >>
- Private Facebook Group “Friends of Mark Alewine Music” - Request Access (email required) >>
Steve Christmas and Mark share powerful fear-fighting techniques as well as some surprising insights on Christmas substitutes and why we should eat more cookies!
Visit the Episode Webpage to hear All About Jesus, explore the PackLife Men opportunity with Mark and get a copy of Steve Christmas’ The Santa Laws.
PACK LIFE
You might be one connection away from thriving in the identity God has for you. Over the years as a pastor, Mark learned a lot about relationships and the benefit of strategic connections with others. Today he helps Christian men overcome anxiety, stress and toxic culture to dive into the identity of the man God created them to be…together…in a “pack”.
Click here to discover opportunities for life-on-life collaboration with other godly men.
MORE MUSIC
You can hear today’s featured song at GGSSPodcast.com or on your favorite streaming platform. You can also buy one of Mark’s CDs at https://markalewinemusic.com/cds
WHY GOD STORIES?
Why is it important to tell God stories? There are so many reasons but Jesus explained it best when He was asked about using so many parables. He said, “I tell stories, to create readiness, to nudge people toward receptive insight.” (That’s taken from Matthew 13 Message version). I’ve experienced God’s amazing work in my life through Jesus Christ and I’m passionate about others experiencing this joy and peace as well! ~Mark
CUSTOM SONGS
Are you looking for a unique gift for someone who’s special AND hard to buy for? Over the years I have enjoyed writing a variety of custom songs such as theme songs and songs that celebrate or commemorate. I have written for businesses, non-profits, individuals, events and occasions. I'm excited to take these experiences and make this special type of gift more readily available. Click here to learn more>>>
YOU’RE INVITED
I’d like you to join the Friends Group! You’ll be one of the first to hear brand new songs, have access to a private page on our website with bonus content and share the journey with Cindy and I more closely than those who know us on social media only. You’ll receive 2-4 emails a month, as well as freebies and discounts in the store. Ready to join us?
ARE YOU ON FACEBOOK?
If so, join our Friends Group in a private Facebook Group where we can freely talk Jesus-music, God-stories, fun and faith journeys! Click here to request access.
Steve Christmas joins Mark to bring you an early taste of Christmas in an energetic conversation full of faith-building insights.
Visit the Episode Webpage to hear All about Jesus and explore the PackLife Men opportunity with Mark.
PACK LIFE
You might be one connection away from thriving in the identity God has for you. Over the years as a pastor, Mark learned a lot about relationships and the benefit of strategic connections with others. Today he helps Christian men overcome symptoms of anxiety, stress and toxic culture to dive into the identity of the man God created them to be…together…in a “pack”.
Click here to discover opportunities for life-on-life collaboration with other godly men.
MORE MUSIC
You can hear today’s featured song at GGSSPodcast.com or on your favorite streaming platform. You can also buy one of Mark’s CDs at https://markalewinemusic.com/cds
WHY GOD STORIES?
Why is it important to tell God stories? There are so many reasons but Jesus explained it best when He was asked about using so many parables. He said, “I tell stories, to create readiness, to nudge people toward receptive insight.” (That’s taken from Matthew 13 Message version). I’ve experienced God’s amazing work in my life through Jesus Christ and I’m passionate about others experiencing this joy and peace as well! ~Mark
CUSTOM SONGS
Are you looking for a unique gift for someone who’s special AND hard to buy for? Over the years I have enjoyed writing a variety of custom songs such as theme songs and songs that celebrate or commemorate. I have written for businesses, non-profits, individuals, events and occasions. I'm excited to take these experiences and make this special type of gift more readily available. Click here to learn more>>>
YOU’RE INVITED
I’d like you to join the Friends Group! You’ll be one of the first to hear brand new songs, have access to a private page on our website with bonus content and share the journey with Cindy and I more closely than those who know us on social media only. You’ll receive 2-4 emails a month, as well as freebies and discounts in the store. Ready to join us?
ARE YOU ON FACEBOOK?
If so, join our Friends Group in a private Facebook Group where we can freely talk Jesus-music, God-stories, fun and faith journeys! Click here to request access.
Join my guest, Jeff Engel, and me for some life-changing advice and a miraculous God-story.
Visit the Episode Webpage to hear Everything I Got and sign up for the next God-stories call with Mark and Cindy and others.
PACK LIFE
You might be one connection away from thriving in the identity God has for you. Over the years as a pastor, Mark learned a lot about relationships and the benefit of strategic connections with others. Today he helps Christian men overcome symptoms of anxiety, stress and toxic culture to dive into the identity of the man God created them to be…together…in a “pack”.
Click here to discover opportunities for life-on-life collaboration with other godly men.
MORE MUSIC
You can hear today’s featured song at GGSSPodcast.com or on your favorite streaming platform. You can also buy one of Mark’s CDs at https://markalewinemusic.com/cds
WHY GOD STORIES?
Why is it important to tell God stories? There are so many reasons but Jesus explained it best when He was asked about using so many parables. He said, “I tell stories, to create readiness, to nudge people toward receptive insight.” (That’s taken from Matthew 13 Message version). I’ve experienced God’s amazing work in my life through Jesus Christ and I’m passionate about others experiencing this joy and peace as well! ~Mark
CUSTOM SONGS
Are you looking for a unique gift for someone who’s special AND hard to buy for? Over the years I have enjoyed writing a variety of custom songs such as theme songs and songs that celebrate or commemorate. I have written for businesses, non-profits, individuals, events and occasions. I'm excited to take these experiences and make this special type of gift more readily available. Click here to learn more>>>
YOU’RE INVITED
I’d like you to join the Friends Group! You’ll be one of the first to hear brand new songs, have access to a private page on our website with bonus content and share the journey with Cindy and I more closely than those who know us on social media only. You’ll receive 2-4 emails a month, as well as freebies and discounts in the store. Ready to join us?
ARE YOU ON FACEBOOK?
If so, join our Friends Group in a private Facebook Group where we can freely talk Jesus-music, God-stories, fun and faith journeys! Click here to request access.
Join my guest, Jeff Engel, and me to share stories related to the lyrics of the song, “Everything I Got” and leave freshly challenged to live out the lyrics in your own daily life.
Visit the Episode Webpage to hear Everything I Got and discover more about joining Mark and others in PackLife Men.
PACK LIFE
You might be one connection away from thriving in the identity God has for you. Over the years as a pastor, Mark learned a lot about relationships and the benefit of strategic connections with others. Today he helps Christian men overcome symptoms of anxiety, stress and toxic culture to dive into the identity of the man God created them to be…together…in a “pack”.
Click here to discover opportunities for life-on-life collaboration with other godly men.
MORE MUSIC
You can hear today’s featured song at GGSSPodcast.com or on your favorite streaming platform. You can also buy one of Mark’s CDs at https://markalewinemusic.com/cds
WHY GOD STORIES?
Why is it important to tell God stories? There are so many reasons but Jesus explained it best when He was asked about using so many parables. He said, “I tell stories, to create readiness, to nudge people toward receptive insight.” (That’s taken from Matthew 13 Message version). I’ve experienced God’s amazing work in my life through Jesus Christ and I’m passionate about others experiencing this joy and peace as well! ~Mark
CUSTOM SONGS
Are you looking for a unique gift for someone who’s special AND hard to buy for? Over the years I have enjoyed writing a variety of custom songs such as theme songs and songs that celebrate or commemorate. I have written for businesses, non-profits, individuals, events and occasions. I'm excited to take these experiences and make this special type of gift more readily available. Click here to learn more>>>
YOU’RE INVITED
I’d like you to join the Friends Group! You’ll be one of the first to hear brand new songs, have access to a private page on our website with bonus content and share the journey with Cindy and I more closely than those who know us on social media only. You’ll receive 2-4 emails a month, as well as freebies and discounts in the store. Ready to join us?
ARE YOU ON FACEBOOK?
If so, join our Friends Group in a private Facebook Group where we can freely talk Jesus-music, God-stories, fun and faith journeys! Click here to request access.
Isaiah Taylor returns to share an inspiring story of God’s sense of humor and tremendous blessing through an unexpected “second-mile service opportunity”.
Visit the Episode Webpage at GGSSPodcast.com to hear the featured song, Adopted Child of God, sign up for the God-stories call and connect with Isaiah.
PACK LIFE
You might be one connection away from thriving in the identity God has for you. Over the years as a pastor, Mark learned a lot about relationships and the benefit of strategic connections with others. Today he helps Christian men overcome anxiety, stress and toxic culture to dive into the identity of the man God created them to be…together…in a “pack”.
Click here to discover opportunities for life-on-life collaboration with other godly men.
MORE MUSIC
You can hear today’s featured song at GGSSPodcast.com or on your favorite streaming platform. You can also buy one of Mark’s CDs at https://markalewinemusic.com/cds
WHY GOD STORIES?
Why is it important to tell God stories? There are so many reasons but Jesus explained it best when He was asked about using so many parables. He said, “I tell stories, to create readiness, to nudge people toward receptive insight.” (That’s taken from Matthew 13 Message version). I’ve experienced God’s amazing work in my life through Jesus Christ and I’m passionate about others experiencing this joy and peace as well! ~Mark
CUSTOM SONGS
Are you looking for a unique gift for someone who’s special AND hard to buy for? Over the years I have enjoyed writing a variety of custom songs such as theme songs and songs that celebrate or commemorate. I have written for businesses, non-profits, individuals, events and occasions. I'm excited to take these experiences and make this special type of gift more readily available. Click here to learn more>>>
YOU’RE INVITED
I’d like you to join the Friends Group! You’ll be one of the first to hear brand new songs, have access to a private page on our website with bonus content and share the journey with Cindy and I more closely than those who know us on social media only. You’ll receive 2-4 emails a month, as well as freebies and discounts in the store. Ready to join us?
ARE YOU ON FACEBOOK?
If so, join our Friends Group in a private Facebook Group where we can freely talk Jesus-music, God-stories, fun and faith journeys! Click here to request access.
Isaiah Taylor joins Mark to talk about the importance of identity, music and margin’s role in living life to its fullest.
Visit the Episode Webpage on GGSSPodcast.com to hear the featured song, Adopted Child of God and find quick links to follow, subscribe and share the music and the podcast.
PACK LIFE
You might be one connection away from thriving in the identity God has for you. Over the years as a pastor, Mark learned a lot about relationships and the benefit of strategic connections with others. Today he helps Christian men overcome anxiety, stress and toxic culture to dive into the identity of the man God created them to be…together…in a “pack”.
Click here to discover opportunities for life-on-life collaboration with other godly men.
MORE MUSIC
You can hear today’s featured song at GGSSPodcast.com or on your favorite streaming platform. You can also buy one of Mark’s CDs at https://markalewinemusic.com/cds
WHY GOD STORIES?
Why is it important to tell God stories? There are so many reasons but Jesus explained it best when He was asked about using so many parables. He said, “I tell stories, to create readiness, to nudge people toward receptive insight.” (That’s taken from Matthew 13 Message version). I’ve experienced God’s amazing work in my life through Jesus Christ and I’m passionate about others experiencing this joy and peace as well! ~Mark
CUSTOM SONGS
Are you looking for a unique gift for someone who’s special AND hard to buy for? Over the years I have enjoyed writing a variety of custom songs such as theme songs and songs that celebrate or commemorate. I have written for businesses, non-profits, individuals, events and occasions. I'm excited to take these experiences and make this special type of gift more readily available. Click here to learn more>>>
YOU’RE INVITED
I’d like you to join the Friends Group! You’ll be one of the first to hear brand new songs, have access to a private page on our website with bonus content and share the journey with Cindy and I more closely than those who know us on social media only. You’ll receive 2-4 emails a month, as well as freebies and discounts in the store. Ready to join us?
ARE YOU ON FACEBOOK?
If so, join our Friends Group in a private Facebook Group where we can freely talk Jesus-music, God-stories, fun and faith journeys! Click here to request access.
Mark is joined by Pat Mingarelli to discuss how to disconnect from the noisy distractions of everyday life and find inner stillness in order to connect with God's presence. Hear about several practical resources that might be especially helpful to you.
Visit the Episode Webpage to hear the featured song, You Calm the Noise, get your free download of the “Noise Elimination Checklist” and see Pat’s resources for quieting your soul and connecting with God.
PACK LIFE
You might be one connection away from thriving in the identity God has for you. Over the years as a pastor, Mark learned a lot about relationships and the benefit of strategic connections with others. Today he helps Christian men overcome anxiety, stress and toxic culture to dive into the identity of the man God created them to be…together…in a “pack”.
Click here to discover opportunities for life-on-life collaboration with other godly men.
MORE MUSIC
You can hear today’s featured song at GGSSPodcast.com or on your favorite streaming platform. You can also buy one of Mark’s CDs at https://markalewinemusic.com/cds
WHY GOD STORIES?
Why is it important to tell God stories? There are so many reasons but Jesus explained it best when He was asked about using so many parables. He said, “I tell stories, to create readiness, to nudge people toward receptive insight.” (That’s taken from Matthew 13 Message version). I’ve experienced God’s amazing work in my life through Jesus Christ and I’m passionate about others experiencing this joy and peace as well! ~Mark
CUSTOM SONGS
Are you looking for a unique gift for someone who’s special AND hard to buy for? Over the years I have enjoyed writing a variety of custom songs such as theme songs and songs that celebrate or commemorate. I have written for businesses, non-profits, individuals, events and occasions. I'm excited to take these experiences and make this special type of gift more readily available. Click here to learn more>>>
YOU’RE INVITED
I’d like you to join the Friends Group! You’ll be one of the first to hear brand new songs, have access to a private page on our website with bonus content and share the journey with Cindy and I more closely than those who know us on social media only. You’ll receive 2-4 emails a month, as well as freebies and discounts in the store. Ready to join us?
ARE YOU ON FACEBOOK?
If so, join our Friends Group in a private Facebook Group where we can freely talk Jesus-music, God-stories, fun and faith journeys! Click here to request access.
Scott Hume returns and we share vulnerable stories, powerful life verses and a bold opportunity if you yourself are struggling.
Visit the Episode Webpage to hear Long Live the New, get Mark’s life verse printable and find out how to reach Scott.
PACK LIFE
You might be one connection away from thriving in the identity God has for you. Over the years as a pastor, Mark learned a lot about relationships and the benefit of strategic connections with others. Today he helps Christian men overcome anxiety, stress and toxic culture to dive into the identity of the man God created them to be…together…in a “pack”.
Click here to discover opportunities for life-on-life collaboration with other godly men.
MORE MUSIC
You can hear today’s featured song at GGSSPodcast.com or on your favorite streaming platform. You can also buy one of Mark’s CDs at https://markalewinemusic.com/cds
WHY GOD STORIES?
Why is it important to tell God stories? There are so many reasons but Jesus explained it best when He was asked about using so many parables. He said, “I tell stories, to create readiness, to nudge people toward receptive insight.” (That’s taken from Matthew 13 Message version). I’ve experienced God’s amazing work in my life through Jesus Christ and I’m passionate about others experiencing this joy and peace as well! ~Mark
CUSTOM SONGS
Are you looking for a unique gift for someone who’s special AND hard to buy for? Over the years I have enjoyed writing a variety of custom songs such as theme songs and songs that celebrate or commemorate. I have written for businesses, non-profits, individuals, events and occasions. I'm excited to take these experiences and make this special type of gift more readily available. Click here to learn more>>>
YOU’RE INVITED
I’d like you to join the Friends Group! You’ll be one of the first to hear brand new songs, have access to a private page on our website with bonus content and share the journey with Cindy and I more closely than those who know us on social media only. You’ll receive 2-4 emails a month, as well as freebies and discounts in the store. Ready to join us?
ARE YOU ON FACEBOOK?
If so, join our Friends Group in a private Facebook Group where we can freely talk Jesus-music, God-stories, fun and faith journeys! Click here to request access.
Scott Hume joins me to share his story of survival and preparation for God’s assignment. Whatever difficult circumstances you may be facing, there is hope and purpose if you say “yes” to God’s transformation.
Visit the Episode Webpage to hear Long Live the New and other songs to encourage and empower you.
PACK LIFE
You might be one connection away from thriving in the identity God has for you. Over the years as a pastor, Mark learned a lot about relationships and the benefit of strategic connections with others. Today he helps Christian men overcome anxiety, stress and toxic culture to dive into the identity of the man God created them to be…together…in a “pack”.
Click here to discover opportunities for life-on-life collaboration with other godly men.
MORE MUSIC
You can hear today’s featured song at GGSSPodcast.com or on your favorite streaming platform. You can also buy one of Mark’s CDs at https://markalewinemusic.com/cds
WHY GOD STORIES?
Why is it important to tell God stories? There are so many reasons but Jesus explained it best when He was asked about using so many parables. He said, “I tell stories, to create readiness, to nudge people toward receptive insight.” (That’s taken from Matthew 13 Message version). I’ve experienced God’s amazing work in my life through Jesus Christ and I’m passionate about others experiencing this joy and peace as well! ~Mark
CUSTOM SONGS
Are you looking for a unique gift for someone who’s special AND hard to buy for? Over the years I have enjoyed writing a variety of custom songs such as theme songs and songs that celebrate or commemorate. I have written for businesses, non-profits, individuals, events and occasions. I'm excited to take these experiences and make this special type of gift more readily available. Click here to learn more>>>
YOU’RE INVITED
I’d like you to join the Friends Group! You’ll be one of the first to hear brand new songs, have access to a private page on our website with bonus content and share the journey with Cindy and I more closely than those who know us on social media only. You’ll receive 2-4 emails a month, as well as freebies and discounts in the store. Ready to join us?
ARE YOU ON FACEBOOK?
If so, join our Friends Group in a private Facebook Group where we can freely talk Jesus-music, God-stories, fun and faith journeys! Click here to request access.
Author, David Steen, joins me to share stories reminding you that God is at work behind the scenes in your life right now. Be inspired to exchange fear for God’s joy as you listen in.
Visit the Episode Webpage to hear the featured song, May Your Coffee Taste Much Sweeter, and to check out custom song options.
ABOUT THE GUEST
David Steen resides on a small farm in Hartford, Arkansas, where he enjoys long walks to the creek with his lovely wife and short walks through the field with his sheep. Other passions include writing, music, reading, cooking for their large family and sipping on a cup of dark roast coffee as often as possible.
David recently published his first book, Almost Home, Setting Our Sights Toward Heaven, which can be pre-ordered through his website or wherever books are sold.
Contact Info: www.almosthomebooks.com, david@almosthomebooks.com
Social Media: https://www.facebook.com/david.steen.90281/, https://www.instagram.com/davidsteenauthor/,https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-steen-a6b76a144/
CUSTOM SONGS
Are you looking for a unique gift for someone who’s special AND hard to buy for? Over the years I have enjoyed writing a variety of custom songs such as theme songs and songs that celebrate or commemorate. I have written for businesses, non-profits, individuals, events and occasions. I'm excited to take these experiences and make this special type of gift more readily available. Click here to learn more>>>
PACK LIFE
You might be one connection away from thriving in the identity God has for you. Over the years as a pastor, Mark learned a lot about relationships and the benefit of strategic connections with others. Today he helps Christian men overcome anxiety, stress and toxic culture to dive into the identity of the man God created them to be…together…in a “pack”.
Click here to discover opportunities for life-on-life collaboration with other godly men.
MORE MUSIC
You can hear today’s featured song at GGSSPodcast.com or on your favorite streaming platform. You can also buy one of Mark’s CDs at https://markalewinemusic.com/cds
WHY GOD STORIES?
Why is it important to tell God stories? There are so many reasons but Jesus explained it best when He was asked about using so many parables. He said, “I tell stories, to create readiness, to nudge people toward receptive insight.” (That’s taken from Matthew 13 Message version). I’ve experienced God’s amazing work in my life through Jesus Christ and I’m passionate about others experiencing this joy and peace as well! ~Mark
YOU’RE INVITED
I’d like you to join the Friends Group! You’ll be one of the first to hear brand new songs, have access to a private page on our website with bonus content and share the journey with Cindy and I more closely than those who know us on social media only. You’ll receive 2-4 emails a month, as well as freebies and discounts in the store. Ready to join us?
ARE YOU ON FACEBOOK?
If so, join our Friends Group in a private Facebook Group where we can freely talk Jesus-music, God-stories, fun and faith journeys! Click here to request access.
Author, David Steen, and Mark share stories of living in “God’s smile” despite a painful divorce and how a beautiful song of blessing came from a burst of anger. This is just what our God does.
Visit the Episode Webpage to hear the featured song, May Your Coffee Taste Much Sweeter, and to check out custom song options.
ABOUT THE GUEST
David Steen resides on a small farm in Hartford, Arkansas, where he enjoys long walks to the creek with his lovely wife and short walks through the field with his sheep. Other passions include writing, music, reading, cooking for their large family and sipping on a cup of dark roast coffee as often as possible.
David recently published his first book, Almost Home, Setting Our Sights Toward Heaven, which can be pre-ordered through his website or wherever books are sold.
Contact Info: www.almosthomebooks.com, david@almosthomebooks.com
Social Media:
https://www.facebook.com/david.steen.90281/,
https://www.instagram.com/davidsteenauthor/,
https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-steen-a6b76a144/
CUSTOM SONGS
Are you looking for a unique gift for someone who’s special AND hard to buy for? Over the years I have enjoyed writing a variety of custom songs such as theme songs and songs that celebrate or commemorate. I have written for businesses, non-profits, individuals, events and occasions. I'm excited to take these experiences and make this special type of gift more readily available. Click here to learn more>>>
PACK LIFE
You might be one connection away from thriving in the identity God has for you. Over the years as a pastor, Mark learned a lot about relationships and the benefit of strategic connections with others. Today he helps Christian men overcome anxiety, stress and toxic culture to dive into the identity of the man God created them to be…together…in a “pack”.
Click here to discover opportunities for life-on-life collaboration with other godly men.
MORE MUSIC
You can hear today’s featured song at GGSSPodcast.com or on your favorite streaming platform. You can also buy one of Mark’s CDs at https://markalewinemusic.com/cds
WHY GOD STORIES?
Why is it important to tell God stories? There are so many reasons but Jesus explained it best when He was asked about using so many parables. He said, “I tell stories, to create readiness, to nudge people toward receptive insight.” (That’s taken from Matthew 13 Message version). I’ve experienced God’s amazing work in my life through Jesus Christ and I’m passionate about others experiencing this joy and peace as well! ~Mark
YOU’RE INVITED
I’d like you to join the Friends Group! You’ll be one of the first to hear brand new songs, have access to a private page on our website with bonus content and share the journey with Cindy and I more closely than those who know us on social media only. You’ll receive 2-4 emails a month, as well as freebies and discounts in the store. Ready to join us?
ARE YOU ON FACEBOOK?
If so, join our Friends Group in a private Facebook Group where we can freely talk Jesus-music, God-stories, fun and faith journeys! Click here to request access.
Join Larry Tribble and Mark for uplifting stories of good churches, good pastors and a beautiful adoption experience. Larry also shares his passion to help people “do busy right” so they can stay close to God and experience peace.
Visit the Episode Webpage to reach Larry and find resources mentioned in the podcast.
CUSTOM SONGS
Are you looking for a unique gift for someone who’s special AND hard to buy for? Over the years I have enjoyed writing a variety of custom songs such as theme songs and songs that celebrate or commemorate. I have written for businesses, non-profits, individuals, events and occasions. I'm excited to take these experiences and make this special type of gift more readily available. Click here to learn more>>>
YOU’RE INVITED
(Free) GOD-STORIES CALL.
Join us on a monthly call to share life and God-stories! Click here for dates and to sign up >>>
Friends Group
You’ll be one of the first to hear brand new songs, have access to a private page on our website with bonus content and share the journey with Cindy and I more closely than those who know us on social media only. You’ll receive 2-4 emails a month, as well as freebies and discounts in the store. Ready to join us?
Private Facebook Group
“Friends of Mark Alewine Music” is a private Facebook Group where we can freely talk Jesus-music, God-stories, fun and faith journeys! Click here to request access.
MORE MUSIC
You can hear today’s featured song at GGSSPodcast.com or on your favorite streaming platform. You can also buy one of Mark’s CDs at https://markalewinemusic.com/cds
PACKLIFE MEN
You might be one connection away from thriving in the identity God has for you. Over the years as a pastor, Mark learned a lot about relationships and the benefit of strategic connections with others. Today he helps Christian men overcome anxiety, stress and toxic culture to dive into the identity of the man God created them to be…together…in a “pack”.
Click here to discover opportunities for life-on-life collaboration with other godly men.
Controlling one’s tongue, overcoming fear and how music helps are topics of my conversation with Larry Tribble. Join us for strong encouragement and takeaways in this episode.
Visit the Episode Webpage to find the resources mentioned in the podcast and hear the featured song, “Don’t Take the Bait.”
PACK LIFE
You might be one connection away from thriving in the identity God has for you. Over the years as a pastor, Mark learned a lot about relationships and the benefit of strategic connections with others. Today he helps Christian men overcome anxiety, stress and toxic culture to dive into the identity of the man God created them to be…together…in a “pack”.
Click here to discover opportunities for life-on-life collaboration with other godly men.
MORE MUSIC
You can hear today’s featured song at GGSSPodcast.com or on your favorite streaming platform. You can also buy one of Mark’s CDs at https://markalewinemusic.com/cds
WHY GOD STORIES?
Why is it important to tell God stories? There are so many reasons but Jesus explained it best when He was asked about using so many parables. He said, “I tell stories, to create readiness, to nudge people toward receptive insight.” (That’s taken from Matthew 13 Message version). I’ve experienced God’s amazing work in my life through Jesus Christ and I’m passionate about others experiencing this joy and peace as well! ~Mark
CUSTOM SONGS
Are you looking for a unique gift for someone who’s special AND hard to buy for? Over the years I have enjoyed writing a variety of custom songs such as theme songs and songs that celebrate or commemorate. I have written for businesses, non-profits, individuals, events and occasions. I'm excited to take these experiences and make this special type of gift more readily available. Click here to learn more>>>
YOU’RE INVITED
I’d like you to join the Friends Group! You’ll be one of the first to hear brand new songs, have access to a private page on our website with bonus content and share the journey with Cindy and I more closely than those who know us on social media only. You’ll receive 2-4 emails a month, as well as freebies and discounts in the store. Ready to join us?
ARE YOU ON FACEBOOK?
If so, join our Friends Group in a private Facebook Group where we can freely talk Jesus-music, God-stories, fun and faith journeys! Click here to request access.
Steve Christmas joins Mark to take you on a journey through his wife's miraculous healing through the power of faith in God’s Word as well as their intriguing venture into the world of balloon-making.
Visit the Episode Webpage to contact Steve and hear the featured song, I’ll Start With You.
PACK LIFE
You might be one connection away from thriving in the identity God has for you. Over the years as a pastor, Mark learned a lot about relationships and the benefit of strategic connections with others. Today he helps Christian men overcome anxiety, stress and toxic culture to dive into the identity of the man God created them to be…together…in a “pack”.
Click here to discover opportunities for life-on-life collaboration with other godly men.
MORE MUSIC
You can hear today’s featured song at GGSSPodcast.com or on your favorite streaming platform. You can also buy one of Mark’s CDs at https://markalewinemusic.com/cds
WHY GOD STORIES?
Why is it important to tell God stories? There are so many reasons but Jesus explained it best when He was asked about using so many parables. He said, “I tell stories, to create readiness, to nudge people toward receptive insight.” (That’s taken from Matthew 13 Message version). I’ve experienced God’s amazing work in my life through Jesus Christ and I’m passionate about others experiencing this joy and peace as well! ~Mark
CUSTOM SONGS
Are you looking for a unique gift for someone who’s special AND hard to buy for? Over the years I have enjoyed writing a variety of custom songs such as theme songs and songs that celebrate or commemorate. I have written for businesses, non-profits, individuals, events and occasions. I'm excited to take these experiences and make this special type of gift more readily available. Click here to learn more>>>
YOU’RE INVITED
I’d like you to join the Friends Group! You’ll be one of the first to hear brand new songs, have access to a private page on our website with bonus content and share the journey with Cindy and I more closely than those who know us on social media only. You’ll receive 2-4 emails a month, as well as freebies and discounts in the store. Ready to join us?
ARE YOU ON FACEBOOK?
If so, join our Friends Group in a private Facebook Group where we can freely talk Jesus-music, God-stories, fun and faith journeys! Click here to request access.
Have you considered the "talking to problems about God" approach or how music sets the pace for us individually as well as for our country? Join Steve Christmas (yes that’s really his name) and Mark for a raw and very interesting conversation about faith, music and influences.
Visit the Episode Webpage to listen to Fly with the Eagles and find opportunities mentioned in the podcast.
CUSTOM SONGS
Are you looking for a unique gift for someone who’s special AND hard to buy for? Over the years I have enjoyed writing a variety of custom songs such as theme songs and songs that celebrate or commemorate. I have written for businesses, non-profits, individuals, events and occasions. I'm excited to take these experiences and make this special type of gift more readily available. Click here to learn more>>>
MORE MUSIC
You can hear today’s featured song at GGSSPodcast.com or on your favorite streaming platform. You can also buy it on one of Mark’s CDs at https://markalewinemusic.com/cds .
PACK LIFE
You might be one connection away from thriving in the identity God has for you. Over the years as a pastor, Mark learned a lot about relationships and the benefit of strategic connections with others. Today he helps Christian men overcome anxiety, stress and toxic culture to dive into the identity of the man God created them to be…together…in a “pack”.
Click here to discover opportunities for life-on-life collaboration with other godly men.
WHY GOD STORIES?
Why is it important to tell God stories? There are so many reasons but Jesus explained it best when He was asked about using so many parables. He said, “I tell stories, to create readiness, to nudge people toward receptive insight.” (That’s taken from Matthew 13 Message version). I’ve experienced God’s amazing work in my life through Jesus Christ and I’m passionate about others experiencing this joy and peace as well! ~Mark
YOU’RE INVITED
I’d like you to join the Friends Group! You’ll be one of the first to hear brand new songs, have access to a private page on our website with bonus content and share the journey with Cindy and I more closely than those who know us on social media only. You’ll receive 2-4 emails a month, as well as freebies and discounts in the store. Ready to join us?
ARE YOU ON FACEBOOK?
If so, join our Friends Group in a private Facebook Group where we can freely talk Jesus-music, God-stories, fun and faith journeys! Click here to request access.
Author and speaker Dave Wadsworth returns with joins me with stories that will energize you to be your best and finish on fire (including some fool-proof marriage advice). Get ready and enjoy the ride!
Visit the Episode Webpage to find the resources mentioned on the show.
PACK LIFE
You might be one connection away from thriving in the identity God has for you. Over the years as a pastor, Mark learned a lot about relationships and the benefit of strategic connections with others. Today he helps Christian men overcome anxiety, stress and toxic culture to dive into the identity of the man God created them to be…together…in a “pack”.
Click here to discover opportunities for life-on-life collaboration with other godly men.
MORE MUSIC
You can hear today’s featured song at GGSSPodcast.com or on your favorite streaming platform. You can also buy one of Mark’s CDs at https://markalewinemusic.com/cds
YOU’RE INVITED
I’d like you to join the Friends Group! You’ll be one of the first to hear brand new songs, have access to a private page on our website with bonus content and share the journey with Cindy and I more closely than those who know us on social media only. You’ll receive 2-4 emails a month, as well as freebies and discounts in the store. Ready to join us?
ARE YOU ON FACEBOOK?
If so, join our Friends Group in a private Facebook Group where we can freely talk Jesus-music, God-stories, fun and faith journeys! Click here to request access.
If you need some motivation right now, you’re in the right place! Author and speaker Dave Wadsworth joins me with stories that will energize you to be your best and finish on fire! Get ready and enjoy the ride!
Visit the Episode Webpage to find the resources mentioned on the show.
PACK LIFE
You might be one connection away from thriving in the identity God has for you. Over the years as a pastor, Mark learned a lot about relationships and the benefit of strategic connections with others. Today he helps Christian men overcome anxiety, stress and toxic culture to dive into the identity of the man God created them to be…together…in a “pack”.
Click here to discover opportunities for life-on-life collaboration with other godly men.
MORE MUSIC
You can hear today’s featured song at GGSSPodcast.com or on your favorite streaming platform. You can also buy a CD at https://markalewinemusic.com/cd-everything
YOU’RE INVITED
I’d like you to join the Friends Group! You’ll be one of the first to hear brand new songs, have access to a private page on our website with bonus content and share the journey with Cindy and I more closely than those who know us on social media only. You’ll receive 2-4 emails a month, as well as freebies and discounts in the store. Ready to join us?
ARE YOU ON FACEBOOK?
If so, join our Friends Group in a private Facebook Group where we can freely talk Jesus-music, God-stories, fun and faith journeys! Click here to request access.
Nothing happens purely by chance and you might be one conversation away from significant change. David Creel returns to join Mark in sharing more stories as well as offerings that could have significant impact on your life.
Visit the Episode Webpage to hear the featured song, Adopted Child of God, learn more about today’s guest, David Creel, and about Mark’s “Pack Life” opportunity for Christian men.
PACK LIFE
You might be one connection away from thriving in the identity God has for you. Over the years as a pastor, Mark learned a lot about relationships and the benefit of strategic connections with others. Today he leads Christian men who are ready to overcome pride, anxiety, stress and toxic culture to dive into the identity of the man God created them to be…together…in a “pack”.
Check out this opportunity for life-on-life collaboration with other godly men.
WHY GOD STORIES?
Why is it important to tell God stories? There are so many reasons but Jesus explained it best when He was asked about using so many parables. He said, “I tell stories, to create readiness, to nudge people toward receptive insight.” (That’s taken from Matthew 13 Message version). I’ve experienced God’s amazing work in my life through Jesus Christ and I’m passionate about others experiencing this joy and peace as well! ~Mark
MORE MUSIC
You can hear today’s featured song at GGSSPodcast.com or on your favorite streaming platform. You can also buy a CD at https://markalewinemusic.com/cd-everything
CUSTOM SONGS
Are you looking for a unique gift for someone who’s special AND hard to buy for? Over the years I have enjoyed writing a variety of custom songs such as theme songs and songs that celebrate or commemorate. I have written for businesses, non-profits, individuals, events and occasions. I'm excited to take these experiences and make this special type of gift more readily available. Click here to learn more>>>
YOU’RE INVITED
I’d like you to join the Friends Group! You’ll be one of the first to hear brand new songs, have access to a private page on our website with bonus content and share the journey with Cindy and I more closely than those who know us on social media only. You’ll receive 2-4 emails a month, as well as freebies and discounts in the store. Ready to join us?
ARE YOU ON FACEBOOK?
If so, join our Friends Group in a private Facebook Group where we can freely talk Jesus-music, God-stories, fun and faith journeys! Click here to request access.
David Creel joins Mark to share lots of stories to help you win the subtle (or perhaps not so subtle) war going on between your ears.
Visit the Episode Webpage to hear the featured song, Adopted Child of God, learn more about today’s guest, David Creel, and about Mark’s “Pack Life” opportunity for Christian men.
PACK LIFE
You might be one connection away from thriving in the identity God has for you. Over the years as a pastor, Mark learned a lot about relationships and the benefit of strategic connections with others. Today he leads Christian men who are ready to overcome pride, anxiety, stress and toxic culture to dive into the identity of the man God created them to be…together…in a “pack”.
Check out this opportunity for life-on-life collaboration with other godly men.
WHY GOD STORIES?
Why is it important to tell God stories? There are so many reasons but Jesus explained it best when He was asked about using so many parables. He said, “I tell stories, to create readiness, to nudge people toward receptive insight.” (That’s taken from Matthew 13 Message version). I’ve experienced God’s amazing work in my life through Jesus Christ and I’m passionate about others experiencing this joy and peace as well! ~Mark
MORE MUSIC
You can hear today’s featured song at GGSSPodcast.com or on your favorite streaming platform. You can also buy a CD at https://markalewinemusic.com/cd-everything
CUSTOM SONGS
Are you looking for a unique gift for someone who’s special AND hard to buy for? Over the years I have enjoyed writing a variety of custom songs such as theme songs and songs that celebrate or commemorate. I have written for businesses, non-profits, individuals, events and occasions. I'm excited to take these experiences and make this special type of gift more readily available. Click here to learn more>>>
YOU’RE INVITED
I’d like you to join the Friends Group! You’ll be one of the first to hear brand new songs, have access to a private page on our website with bonus content and share the journey with Cindy and I more closely than those who know us on social media only. You’ll receive 2-4 emails a month, as well as freebies and discounts in the store. Ready to join us?
ARE YOU ON FACEBOOK?
If so, join our Friends Group in a private Facebook Group where we can freely talk Jesus-music, God-stories, fun and faith journeys! Click here to request access.
Are you living out in the open? John Liddle returns to share more funny stories and rich insights. Stay tuned!
Visit the Episode Webpage to find John’s podcast and check out Mark’s Pack Life opportunity for men.
WHY GOD STORIES?
Why is it important to tell God stories? There are so many reasons but Jesus explained it best when He was asked about using so many parables. He said, “I tell stories, to create readiness, to nudge people toward receptive insight.” (That’s taken from Matthew 13 Message version). I’ve experienced God’s amazing work in my life through Jesus Christ and I’m passionate about others experiencing this joy and peace as well! ~Mark
PACK LIFE
You might be one connection away from thriving in the identity God has for you. Over the years as a pastor, Mark learned a lot about relationships and the benefit of strategic connections with others. Today he helps Christian men overcome anxiety, stress and toxic culture to dive into the identity of the man God created them to be…together…in a “pack”.
Click here to discover opportunities for life-on-life collaboration with other godly men.
MORE MUSIC
You can hear today’s featured song at GGSSPodcast.com or on your favorite streaming platform. You can also buy a CD at https://markalewinemusic.com/cd-everything .
John Liddle joins Mark to share life stories and how God used his “pack” to overcome some of life’s consequences.
Visit the Episode Webpage to find John’s podcast and check out Mark’s Pack Life opportunity for men.
WHY GOD STORIES?
Why is it important to tell God stories? There are so many reasons but Jesus explained it best when He was asked about using so many parables. He said, “I tell stories, to create readiness, to nudge people toward receptive insight.” (That’s taken from Matthew 13 Message version). I’ve experienced God’s amazing work in my life through Jesus Christ and I’m passionate about others experiencing this joy and peace as well! ~Mark
PACK LIFE
Life is tough. It can be brutal sometimes, especially if you’re on your own. Over the years as a pastor, I learned a lot about relationships and the benefit of strategic connections with others.
Today, I help Christian men overcome anxiety, stress and toxic culture to dive into the identity of the man God created them to be…together…in a “pack”. Click here to discover opportunities for life-on-life collaboration with other godly men.
MORE MUSIC
You can hear today’s featured song at GGSSPodcast.com or on your favorite streaming platform. You can also buy a CD at https://markalewinemusic.com/cd-everything
Daniel Miller and Mark share more uplifting God-stories with you as well as opportunities for men to strategically connect with each other in order to live out God’s identity as men.
Visit the Episode Webpage to hear Jesus You’re My Genesis and discover how you can take part in strategic opportunities to connect with Mark, Daniel and other men.
WHY GOD STORIES?
Why is it important to tell God stories? There are so many reasons but Jesus explained it best when He was asked about using so many parables. He said, “I tell stories, to create readiness, to nudge people toward receptive insight.” (That’s taken from Matthew 13 Message version). I’ve experienced God’s amazing work in my life through Jesus Christ and I’m passionate about others experiencing this joy and peace as well! ~Mark
MORE MUSIC
You can hear today’s featured song at GGSSPodcast.com or on your favorite streaming platform. You can also buy a CD at https://markalewinemusic.com/cd-everything
CUSTOM SONGS
Are you looking for a unique gift for someone who’s special AND hard to buy for? Over the years I have enjoyed writing a variety of custom songs such as theme songs and songs that celebrate or commemorate. I have written for businesses, non-profits, individuals, events and occasions. I'm excited to take these experiences and make this special type of gift more readily available. Click here to learn more>>>
YOU’RE INVITED
I’d like you to join the Friends Group! You’ll be one of the first to hear brand new songs, have access to a private page on our website with bonus content and share the journey with Cindy and I more closely than those who know us on social media only. You’ll receive 2-4 emails a month, as well as freebies and discounts in the store. Ready to join us?
ARE YOU ON FACEBOOK?
If so, join our Friends Group in a private Facebook Group where we can freely talk Jesus-music, God-stories, fun and faith journeys! Click here to request access.
Transformation is possible! Daniel Miller joins me to share experiences that led him from unhealthy, overcompensation-mode to freedom in doing things God’s way. Stay tuned!
Visit the Episode Webpage to hear Jesus You’re My Genesis and discover how you can take part in strategic opportunities to connect with Mark and other men.
WHY GOD STORIES?
Why is it important to tell God stories? There are so many reasons but Jesus explained it best when He was asked about using so many parables. He said, “I tell stories, to create readiness, to nudge people toward receptive insight.” (That’s taken from Matthew 13 Message version). I’ve experienced God’s amazing work in my life through Jesus Christ and I’m passionate about others experiencing this joy and peace as well! ~Mark
MORE MUSIC
You can hear today’s featured song at GGSSPodcast.com or on your favorite streaming platform. You can also buy a CD at https://markalewinemusic.com/cd-everything
CUSTOM SONGS
Are you looking for a unique gift for someone who’s special AND hard to buy for? Over the years I have enjoyed writing a variety of custom songs such as theme songs and songs that celebrate or commemorate. I have written for businesses, non-profits, individuals, events and occasions. I'm excited to take these experiences and make this special type of gift more readily available. Click here to learn more>>>
YOU’RE INVITED
I’d like you to join the Friends Group! You’ll be one of the first to hear brand new songs, have access to a private page on our website with bonus content and share the journey with Cindy and I more closely than those who know us on social media only. You’ll receive 2-4 emails a month, as well as freebies and discounts in the store. Ready to join us?
ARE YOU ON FACEBOOK?
If so, join our Friends Group in a private Facebook Group where we can freely talk Jesus-music, God-stories, fun and faith journeys! Click here to request access.
Yvette Davis has experienced miraculous healings and joins Mark to share her God-stories and the insights that came as a result. (Featured song: Adopted Child of God)
Visit the Episode Webpage to learn how Yvette can help with your healing needs.
WHY GOD STORIES?
Why is it important to tell God stories? There are so many reasons but Jesus explained it best when He was asked about using so many parables. He said, “I tell stories, to create readiness, to nudge people toward receptive insight.” (That’s taken from Matthew 13 Message version). I’ve experienced God’s amazing work in my life through Jesus Christ and I’m passionate about others experiencing this joy and peace as well! ~Mark
MORE MUSIC
You can hear today’s featured song at GGSSPodcast.com or on your favorite streaming platform. You can also buy a CD at https://markalewinemusic.com/cd-everything
CUSTOM SONGS
Are you looking for a unique gift for someone who’s special AND hard to buy for? Over the years I have enjoyed writing a variety of custom songs such as theme songs and songs that celebrate or commemorate. I have written for businesses, non-profits, individuals, events and occasions. I'm excited to take these experiences and make this special type of gift more readily available. Click here to learn more>>>
YOU’RE INVITED
I’d like you to join the Friends Group! You’ll be one of the first to hear brand new songs, have access to a private page on our website with bonus content and share the journey with Cindy and I more closely than those who know us on social media only. You’ll receive 2-4 emails a month, as well as freebies and discounts in the store. Ready to join us?
ARE YOU ON FACEBOOK?
If so, join our Friends Group in a private Facebook Group where we can freely talk Jesus-music, God-stories, fun and faith journeys! Click here to request access.
Music makes stuff stick and so do stories! Deb DeMaris returns with more beautiful stories and a powerful prayer that will deeply inspire you.
As you’ve guessed by now, I love God-stories. Cindy and I are hosting some Zoom gatherings to share some "face to face" time with you, to get to know you better and hear some of your God-stories. We’d love for you to join us! The invitation link will go out to everyone in our Friends Group (email) so be sure to join at GGSSPodcast.com Episode 50 if you haven’t already.
WHY GOD STORIES?
Why is it important to tell God stories? There are so many reasons but Jesus explained it best when He was asked about using so many parables. He said, “I tell stories, to create readiness, to nudge people toward receptive insight.” (That’s taken from Matthew 13 Message version). I’ve experienced God’s amazing work in my life through Jesus Christ and I’m passionate about others experiencing this joy and peace as well! ~Mark
MORE MUSIC
You can hear today’s featured song at GGSSPodcast.com or on your favorite streaming platform. You can also buy a CD at https://markalewinemusic.com/cd-everything
CUSTOM SONGS
Are you looking for a unique gift for someone who’s special AND hard to buy for? Over the years I have enjoyed writing a variety of custom songs such as theme songs and songs that celebrate or commemorate. I have written for businesses, non-profits, individuals, events and occasions. I'm excited to take these experiences and make this special type of gift more readily available. Click here to learn more>>>
YOU’RE INVITED
I’d like you to join the Friends Group! You’ll be one of the first to hear brand new songs, have access to a private page on our website with bonus content and share the journey with Cindy and I more closely than those who know us on social media only. You’ll receive 2-4 emails a month, as well as freebies and discounts in the store. Ready to join us?
ARE YOU ON FACEBOOK?
If so, join our Friends Group in a private Facebook Group where we can freely talk Jesus-music, God-stories, fun and faith journeys! Click here to request access.
Walking with God is a beautiful thing. Deb DeMaris joins Mark to talk about how they connect with God through music and some stories of faith that will “ignite joy”.
As you’ve guessed by now, I love God-stories. Cindy and I are hosting some Zoom gatherings to share some "face to face" time with you, to get to know you better and hear some of your God-stories. We’d love for you to join us! The invitation link will go out to everyone in our Friends Group (email) so be sure to join at GGSSPodcast.com Episode 49 if you haven’t already.
WHY GOD STORIES?
Why is it important to tell God stories? There are so many reasons but Jesus explained it best when He was asked about using so many parables. He said, “I tell stories, to create readiness, to nudge people toward receptive insight.” (That’s taken from Matthew 13 Message version). I’ve experienced God’s amazing work in my life through Jesus Christ and I’m passionate about others experiencing this joy and peace as well! ~Mark
MORE MUSIC
You can hear today’s featured song at GGSSPodcast.com or on your favorite streaming platform. You can also buy a CD at https://markalewinemusic.com/cd-everything
CUSTOM SONGS
Are you looking for a unique gift for someone who’s special AND hard to buy for? Over the years I have enjoyed writing a variety of custom songs such as theme songs and songs that celebrate or commemorate. I have written for businesses, non-profits, individuals, events and occasions. I'm excited to take these experiences and make this special type of gift more readily available. Click here to learn more>>>
YOU’RE INVITED
I’d like you to join the Friends Group! You’ll be one of the first to hear brand new songs, have access to a private page on our website with bonus content and share the journey with Cindy and I more closely than those who know us on social media only. You’ll receive 2-4 emails a month, as well as freebies and discounts in the store. Ready to join us?
ARE YOU ON FACEBOOK?
If so, join our Friends Group in a private Facebook Group where we can freely talk Jesus-music, God-stories, fun and faith journeys! Click here to request access.
It’s beautiful the way God weaves good influences into our lives and how he can use us to influence others. Here’s the encouragement to give your entire life to God and be the blessing we all want and need!
Visit the Episode Webpage to hear the song, Have You Ever Felt.
Would you partner with Mark in “making good stuff stick”? You can do so is by following the music, subscribing to the podcast and sharing them with others. Thank you for taking these simple action steps!
WHY GOD STORIES?
Why is it important to tell God stories? There are so many reasons but Jesus explained it best when He was asked about using so many parables. He said, “I tell stories, to create readiness, to nudge people toward receptive insight.” (That’s taken from Matthew 13 Message version). I’ve experienced God’s amazing work in my life through Jesus Christ and I’m passionate about others experiencing this joy and peace as well! ~Mark
MORE MUSIC
You can hear today’s featured song at GGSSPodcast.com or on your favorite streaming platform. You can also buy a CD at https://markalewinemusic.com/cd-everything
CUSTOM SONGS
Are you looking for a unique gift for someone who’s special AND hard to buy for? Over the years I have enjoyed writing a variety of custom songs such as theme songs and songs that celebrate or commemorate. I have written for businesses, non-profits, individuals, events and occasions. I'm excited to take these experiences and make this special type of gift more readily available. Click here to learn more>>>
YOU’RE INVITED
I’d like you to join the Friends Group! You’ll be one of the first to hear brand new songs, have access to a private page on our website with bonus content and share the journey with Cindy and I more closely than those who know us on social media only. You’ll receive 2-4 emails a month, as well as freebies and discounts in the store. Ready to join us?
ARE YOU ON FACEBOOK?
If so, join our Friends Group in a private Facebook Group where we can freely talk Jesus-music, God-stories, fun and faith journeys! Click here to request access.
When the enemy of your soul says “you’re not enough”, stand your ground and reach out to the One who is more than enough. Catara Bowling and Shantta Stevens join Mark to share stories proving this kind of life is possible!
Visit the Episode Webpage to hear the song, Enough, and to contact Mark about writing songs with him in a small group setting (no experience required!)
WHY GOD STORIES?
Why is it important to tell God stories? There are so many reasons but Jesus explained it best when He was asked about using so many parables. He said, “I tell stories, to create readiness, to nudge people toward receptive insight.” (That’s taken from Matthew 13 Message version). I’ve experienced God’s amazing work in my life through Jesus Christ and I’m passionate about others experiencing this joy and peace as well! ~Mark
MORE MUSIC
You can hear today’s featured song at GGSSPodcast.com or on your favorite streaming platform. You can also buy a CD at https://markalewinemusic.com/cd-everything
CUSTOM SONGS
Are you looking for a unique gift for someone who’s special AND hard to buy for? Over the years I have enjoyed writing a variety of custom songs such as theme songs and songs that celebrate or commemorate. I have written for businesses, non-profits, individuals, events and occasions. I'm excited to take these experiences and make this special type of gift more readily available. Click here to learn more>>>
YOU’RE INVITED
I’d like you to join the Friends Group! You’ll be one of the first to hear brand new songs, have access to a private page on our website with bonus content and share the journey with Cindy and I more closely than those who know us on social media only. You’ll receive 2-4 emails a month, as well as freebies and discounts in the store. Ready to join us?
ARE YOU ON FACEBOOK?
If so, join our Friends Group in a private Facebook Group where we can freely talk Jesus-music, God-stories, fun and faith journeys! Click here to request access.
Like Phyllis Jenkins, you were meant to be here. Don’t waste your wakeup calls but turn them into life changing messages. Tune in to learn more. (Featured song: Unshaken)
Visit the Episode Webpage to hear the featured song and to contact Mark about an opportunity to co-write a song with him in a small group setting (no experience required)!
WHY GOD STORIES?
Why is it important to tell God stories? There are so many reasons but Jesus explained it best when He was asked about using so many parables. He said, “I tell stories, to create readiness, to nudge people toward receptive insight.” (That’s taken from Matthew 13 Message version). I’ve experienced God’s amazing work in my life through Jesus Christ and I’m passionate about others experiencing this joy and peace as well! ~Mark
MORE MUSIC
You can hear today’s featured song at GGSSPodcast.com or on your favorite streaming platform. You can also buy a CD at https://markalewinemusic.com/cd-everything
CUSTOM SONGS
Are you looking for a unique gift for someone who’s special AND hard to buy for? Over the years I have enjoyed writing a variety of custom songs such as theme songs and songs that celebrate or commemorate. I have written for businesses, non-profits, individuals, events and occasions. I'm excited to take these experiences and make this special type of gift more readily available. Click here to learn more>>>
YOU’RE INVITED
I’d like you to join the Friends Group! You’ll be one of the first to hear brand new songs, have access to a private page on our website with bonus content and share the journey with Cindy and I more closely than those who know us on social media only. You’ll receive 2-4 emails a month, as well as freebies and discounts in the store. Ready to join us?
ARE YOU ON FACEBOOK?
If so, join our Friends Group in a private Facebook Group where we can freely talk Jesus-music, God-stories, fun and faith journeys! Click here to request access.
Frances Drost returns to talk about depression, dry spells, motivation and unusual answers to prayer. This is too good to miss!
Visit the Episode Webpage to hear the featured song, “May Your Coffee Taste Much Sweeter, " and learn how YOUR VERY OWN SONG can come to life with Mark’s help!
WHY GOD STORIES?
Why is it important to tell God stories? There are so many reasons but Jesus explained it best when He was asked about using so many parables. He said, “I tell stories, to create readiness, to nudge people toward receptive insight.” (That’s taken from Matthew 13 Message version). I’ve experienced God’s amazing work in my life through Jesus Christ and I’m passionate about others experiencing this joy and peace as well! ~Mark
MORE MUSIC
You can hear today’s featured song at GGSSPodcast.com or on your favorite streaming platform. You can also buy a CD at https://markalewinemusic.com/cd-everything
CUSTOM SONGS
Are you looking for a unique gift for someone who’s special AND hard to buy for? Over the years I have enjoyed writing a variety of custom songs such as theme songs and songs that celebrate or commemorate. I have written for businesses, non-profits, individuals, events and occasions. I'm excited to take these experiences and make this special type of gift more readily available. Click here to learn more>>>
YOU’RE INVITED
I’d like you to join the Friends Group! You’ll be one of the first to hear brand new songs, have access to a private page on our website with bonus content and share the journey with Cindy and I more closely than those who know us on social media only. You’ll receive 2-4 emails a month, as well as freebies and discounts in the store. Ready to join us?
ARE YOU ON FACEBOOK?
If so, join our Friends Group in a private Facebook Group where we can freely talk Jesus-music, God-stories, fun and faith journeys! Click here to request access.
Frances Drost shares experiences that will inspire you to reconnect with the passions and giftings God put inside of you. Grab your favorite beverage, sit back and savor the experience.
Visit the Episode Webpage to hear the featured song, “May Your Coffee Taste Much Sweeter”, Frances’ song, “Nobody Sees” and to learn how YOUR VERY OWN SONG can come to life with Mark’s help!
WHY GOD STORIES?
Why is it important to tell God stories? There are so many reasons but Jesus explained it best when He was asked about using so many parables. He said, “I tell stories, to create readiness, to nudge people toward receptive insight.” (That’s taken from Matthew 13 Message version). I’ve experienced God’s amazing work in my life through Jesus Christ and I’m passionate about others experiencing this joy and peace as well! ~Mark
MORE MUSIC
You can hear today’s featured song at GGSSPodcast.com or on your favorite streaming platform. You can also buy a CD at https://markalewinemusic.com/cd-everything
CUSTOM SONGS
Are you looking for a unique gift for someone who’s special AND hard to buy for? Over the years I have enjoyed writing a variety of custom songs such as theme songs and songs that celebrate or commemorate. I have written for businesses, non-profits, individuals, events and occasions. I'm excited to take these experiences and make this special type of gift more readily available. Click here to learn more>>>
YOU’RE INVITED
I’d like you to join the Friends Group! You’ll be one of the first to hear brand new songs, have access to a private page on our website with bonus content and share the journey with Cindy and I more closely than those who know us on social media only. You’ll receive 2-4 emails a month, as well as freebies and discounts in the store. Ready to join us?
ARE YOU ON FACEBOOK?
If so, join our Friends Group in a private Facebook Group where we can freely talk Jesus-music, God-stories, fun and faith journeys! Click here to request access.
God rewards us richly as we bring our puzzle pieces to the table with openness and expectancy. Come join us!
Visit the Episode Webpage to hear the featured song, Fly with the Eagles, and see the t-shirt inspired by the song. Don’t forget to use promo code EAGLE for an extra 10% off.
WHY GOD STORIES?
Why is it important to tell God stories? There are so many reasons but Jesus explained it best when He was asked about using so many parables. He said, “I tell stories, to create readiness, to nudge people toward receptive insight.” (That’s taken from Matthew 13 Message version). I’ve experienced God’s amazing work in my life through Jesus Christ and I’m passionate about others experiencing this joy and peace as well! ~Mark
MORE MUSIC
You can hear today’s featured song at GGSSPodcast.com or on your favorite streaming platform. You can also buy a CD at https://markalewinemusic.com/cd-everything
CUSTOM SONGS
Are you looking for a unique gift for someone who’s special AND hard to buy for? Over the years I have enjoyed writing a variety of custom songs such as theme songs and songs that celebrate or commemorate. I have written for businesses, non-profits, individuals, events and occasions. I'm excited to take these experiences and make this special type of gift more readily available. Click here to learn more>>>
YOU’RE INVITED
I’d like you to join the Friends Group! You’ll be one of the first to hear brand new songs, have access to a private page on our website with bonus content and share the journey with Cindy and I more closely than those who know us on social media only. You’ll receive 2-4 emails a month, as well as freebies and discounts in the store. Ready to join us?
ARE YOU ON FACEBOOK?
If so, join our Friends Group in a private Facebook Group where we can freely talk Jesus-music, God-stories, fun and faith journeys! Click here to request access.
Introverted? Too busy? A bit stuck? Get a fresh perspective on a simple life principle that could change your attitude and your altitude.
Visit the Episode Webpage To hear the featured song, Fly with the Eagles, and see the t-shirt inspired by the song. Don’t forget to use promo code EAGLE for an extra 10% off.
WHY GOD STORIES?
Why is it important to tell God stories? There are so many reasons but Jesus explained it best when He was asked about using so many parables. He said, “I tell stories, to create readiness, to nudge people toward receptive insight.” (That’s taken from Matthew 13 Message version). I’ve experienced God’s amazing work in my life through Jesus Christ and I’m passionate about others experiencing this joy and peace as well! ~Mark
MORE MUSIC
You can hear today’s featured song at GGSSPodcast.com or on your favorite streaming platform. You can also buy a CD at https://markalewinemusic.com/cd-everything
CUSTOM SONGS
Are you looking for a unique gift for someone who’s special AND hard to buy for? Over the years I have enjoyed writing a variety of custom songs such as theme songs and songs that celebrate or commemorate. I have written for businesses, non-profits, individuals, events and occasions. I'm excited to take these experiences and make this special type of gift more readily available. Click here to learn more>>>
YOU’RE INVITED
I’d like you to join the Friends Group! You’ll be one of the first to hear brand new songs, have access to a private page on our website with bonus content and share the journey with Cindy and I more closely than those who know us on social media only. You’ll receive 2-4 emails a month, as well as freebies and discounts in the store. Ready to join us?
ARE YOU ON FACEBOOK?
If so, join our Friends Group in a private Facebook Group where we can freely talk Jesus-music, God-stories, fun and faith journeys! Click here to request access.
Power over fear and anxiety is within your grasp! Josh Natrop shares another amazing life lesson of grace which could change the trajectory of your day, if not your life. Stay tuned.
Visit the Episode Webpage to hear Imagine Beautiful and learn how to get a custom song for your special occasion, special someone or your organization.
WHY GOD STORIES?
Why is it important to tell God stories? There are so many reasons but Jesus explained it best when He was asked about using so many parables. He said, “I tell stories, to create readiness, to nudge people toward receptive insight.” (That’s taken from Matthew 13 Message version). I’ve experienced God’s amazing work in my life through Jesus Christ and I’m passionate about others experiencing this joy and peace as well! ~Mark
MORE MUSIC
You can hear today’s featured song at GGSSPodcast.com or on your favorite streaming platform. You can also buy a CD at https://markalewinemusic.com/cd-everything
CUSTOM SONGS
Are you looking for a unique gift for someone who’s special AND hard to buy for? Over the years I have enjoyed writing a variety of custom songs such as theme songs and songs that celebrate or commemorate. I have written for businesses, non-profits, individuals, events and occasions. I'm excited to take these experiences and make this special type of gift more readily available. Click here to learn more>>>
YOU’RE INVITED
I’d like you to join the Friends Group! You’ll be one of the first to hear brand new songs, have access to a private page on our website with bonus content and share the journey with Cindy and I more closely than those who know us on social media only. You’ll receive 2-4 emails a month, as well as freebies and discounts in the store. Ready to join us?
ARE YOU ON FACEBOOK?
If so, join our Friends Group in a private Facebook Group where we can freely talk Jesus-music, God-stories, fun and faith journeys! Click here to request access.
Drink deeply of beauty, freedom, grace and love from the Father’s heart as you hear this episode with Josh Nathrop.
Visit the Episode Webpage to hear Imagine Beautiful and learn how to get a custom song for your special occasion, special someone or your organization.
WHY GOD STORIES?
Why is it important to tell God stories? There are so many reasons but Jesus explained it best when He was asked about using so many parables. He said, “I tell stories, to create readiness, to nudge people toward receptive insight.” (That’s taken from Matthew 13 Message version). I’ve experienced God’s amazing work in my life through Jesus Christ and I’m passionate about others experiencing this joy and peace as well! ~Mark
MORE MUSIC
You can hear today’s featured song at GGSSPodcast.com or on your favorite streaming platform. You can also buy a CD at https://markalewinemusic.com/cd-everything
CUSTOM SONGS
Are you looking for a unique gift for someone who’s special AND hard to buy for? Over the years I have enjoyed writing a variety of custom songs such as theme songs and songs that celebrate or commemorate. I have written for businesses, non-profits, individuals, events and occasions. I'm excited to take these experiences and make this special type of gift more readily available. Click here to learn more>>>
YOU’RE INVITED
I’d like you to join the Friends Group! You’ll be one of the first to hear brand new songs, have access to a private page on our website with bonus content and share the journey with Cindy and I more closely than those who know us on social media only. You’ll receive 2-4 emails a month, as well as freebies and discounts in the store. Ready to join us?
ARE YOU ON FACEBOOK?
If so, join our Friends Group in a private Facebook Group where we can freely talk Jesus-music, God-stories, fun and faith journeys! Click here to request access.
No matter how old, no matter your role, repentance, obedience and time with God are essential to a life full of peace, joy and purpose.
Visit the Episode Webpage to follow Mark’s music on your favorite app and subscribe to the podcast.
WHY GOD STORIES?
Why is it important to tell God stories? There are so many reasons but Jesus explained it best when He was asked about using so many parables. He said, “I tell stories, to create readiness, to nudge people toward receptive insight.” (That’s taken from Matthew 13 Message version). I’ve experienced God’s amazing work in my life through Jesus Christ and I’m passionate about others experiencing this joy and peace as well! ~Mark
MORE MUSIC
You can hear today’s featured song at GGSSPodcast.com or on your favorite streaming platform. You can also buy a CD at https://markalewinemusic.com/cd-everything
CUSTOM SONGS
Are you looking for a unique gift for someone who’s special AND hard to buy for? Over the years I have enjoyed writing a variety of custom songs such as theme songs and songs that celebrate or commemorate. I have written for businesses, non-profits, individuals, events and occasions. I'm excited to take these experiences and make this special type of gift more readily available. Click here to learn more>>>
YOU’RE INVITED
I’d like you to join the Friends Group! You’ll be one of the first to hear brand new songs, have access to a private page on our website with bonus content and share the journey with Cindy and I more closely than those who know us on social media only. You’ll receive 2-4 emails a month, as well as freebies and discounts in the store. Ready to join us?
ARE YOU ON FACEBOOK?
If so, join our Friends Group in a private Facebook Group where we can freely talk Jesus-music, God-stories, fun and faith journeys! Click here to request access.
Divine appointments are thrilling! Whether you’re #1, #5 or #7, just obey and then leave the results up to God. He’s full of good surprises!
Visit the Episode Webpage
To hear the featured song, Everything I Got, learn about the Missions school mentioned in the podcast and to contact today’s guest, David Entler.
(ex: find the resources mentioned in the podcast; get your free printable; etc.)
WHY GOD STORIES?
Why is it important to tell God stories? There are so many reasons but Jesus explained it best when He was asked about using so many parables. He said, “I tell stories, to create readiness, to nudge people toward receptive insight.” (That’s taken from Matthew 13 Message version). I’ve experienced God’s amazing work in my life through Jesus Christ and I’m passionate about others experiencing this joy and peace as well! ~Mark
MORE MUSIC
You can hear today’s featured song at GGSSPodcast.com or on your favorite streaming platform. You can also buy a CD at https://markalewinemusic.com/cd-everything
CUSTOM SONGS
Are you looking for a unique gift for someone who’s special AND hard to buy for? Over the years I have enjoyed writing a variety of custom songs such as theme songs and songs that celebrate or commemorate. I have written for businesses, non-profits, individuals, events and occasions. I'm excited to take these experiences and make this special type of gift more readily available. Click here to learn more>>>
YOU’RE INVITED
I’d like you to join the Friends Group! You’ll be one of the first to hear brand new songs, have access to a private page on our website with bonus content and share the journey with Cindy and I more closely than those who know us on social media only. You’ll receive 2-4 emails a month, as well as freebies and discounts in the store. Ready to join us?
ARE YOU ON FACEBOOK?
If so, join our Friends Group in a private Facebook Group where we can freely talk Jesus-music, God-stories, fun and faith journeys! Click here to request access.
Can you remember Jesus’ last words before going back to heaven? Whether you use a t-shirt, tattoo or business card, stay tuned for some fresh joy and motivation in being His DM.
Visit the Episode Webpage to hear the featured song, Everything I Got, and shop for conversation-starting shirts.
WHY GOD STORIES?
Why is it important to tell God stories? There are so many reasons but Jesus explained it best when He was asked about using so many parables. He said, “I tell stories, to create readiness, to nudge people toward receptive insight.” (That’s taken from Matthew 13 Message version). I’ve experienced God’s amazing work in my life through Jesus Christ and I’m passionate about others experiencing this joy and peace as well! ~Mark
MORE MUSIC
You can hear today’s featured song at GGSSPodcast.com or on your favorite streaming platform. You can also buy a CD at https://markalewinemusic.com/cd-everything
CUSTOM SONGS
Are you looking for a unique gift for someone who’s special AND hard to buy for? Over the years I have enjoyed writing a variety of custom songs such as theme songs and songs that celebrate or commemorate. I have written for businesses, non-profits, individuals, events and occasions. I'm excited to take these experiences and make this special type of gift more readily available. Click here to learn more>>>
YOU’RE INVITED
I’d like you to join the Friends Group! You’ll be one of the first to hear brand new songs, have access to a private page on our website with bonus content and share the journey with Cindy and I more closely than those who know us on social media only. You’ll receive 2-4 emails a month, as well as freebies and discounts in the store. Ready to join us?
ARE YOU ON FACEBOOK?
If so, join our Friends Group in a private Facebook Group where we can freely talk Jesus-music, God-stories, fun and faith journeys! Click here to request access.
The difference between those who follow Christ and those who don’t is not the lack of trouble; it’s the overwhelming, unexplainable peace of God right in the middle of those troubles. Today’s God-story might just help you sleep better tonight. Visit the Episode webpage to hear the Serenity Prayer and see scripture mentioned in the podcast today.
WHY GOD STORIES?
Why is it important to tell God stories? There are so many reasons but Jesus explained it best when He was asked about using so many parables. He said, “I tell stories, to create readiness, to nudge people toward receptive insight.” (That’s taken from Matthew 13 Message version). I’ve experienced God’s amazing work in my life through Jesus Christ and I’m passionate about others experiencing this joy and peace as well! ~Mark
MORE MUSIC
You can hear today’s featured song at GGSSPodcast.com or on your favorite streaming platform. You can also buy a CD at https://markalewinemusic.com/cd-everything
CUSTOM SONGS
Are you looking for a unique gift for someone who’s special AND hard to buy for? Over the years I have enjoyed writing a variety of custom songs such as theme songs and songs that celebrate or commemorate. I have written for businesses, non-profits, individuals, events and occasions. I'm excited to take these experiences and make this special type of gift more readily available. Click here to learn more>>>
ARE YOU ON FACEBOOK?
If so, join our Friends Group in a private Facebook Group where we can freely talk Jesus-music, God-stories, fun and faith journeys! Click here to request access.
Visit the Episode Webpage for things mentioned in the show including helpful resources, the two unreleased songs and how to get a custom song for your special occasion.
WHY GOD STORIES?
Why is it important to tell God stories? There are so many reasons but Jesus explained it best when He was asked about using so many parables. He said, “I tell stories, to create readiness, to nudge people toward receptive insight.” (That’s taken from Matthew 13 Message version). I’ve experienced God’s amazing work in my life through Jesus Christ and I’m passionate about others experiencing this joy and peace as well! ~Mark
MORE MUSIC
Hear today’s featured song at GGSSPodcast.com or on your favorite streaming platform. You can also buy a CD at https://markalewinemusic.com/cd-everything
CUSTOM SONGS
Are you looking for a unique gift for someone who’s special AND hard to buy for? Over the years I have enjoyed writing a variety of custom songs such as theme songs and songs that celebrate or commemorate. I have written for businesses, non-profits, individuals, events and occasions. I'm excited to take these experiences and make this special type of gift more readily available. Click here to learn more>>>
YOU’RE INVITED
I’d like you to join the Friends Group! You’ll be one of the first to hear brand new songs, have access to a private page on our website with bonus content and share the journey with Cindy and I more closely than those who know us on social media only. You’ll receive 2-4 emails a month, as well as freebies and discounts in the store. Ready to join us?
ARE YOU ON FACEBOOK?
If so, join our Friends Group in a private Facebook Group where we can freely talk Jesus-music, God-stories, fun and faith journeys! Click here to request access.
When you consider what God says about you, do you agree or disagree? It’s time to get out of your own way and LIVE! Stay tuned for lots of helpful tips on making that shift…starting today.
Visit the Episode Webpage for things mentioned in the show including helpful resources, the two unreleased songs and how to get a custom song in time for your special occasion.
WHY GOD STORIES?
Why is it important to tell God stories? There are so many reasons but Jesus explained it best when He was asked about using so many parables. He said, “I tell stories, to create readiness, to nudge people toward receptive insight.” (That’s taken from Matthew 13 Message version). I’ve experienced God’s amazing work in my life through Jesus Christ and I’m passionate about others experiencing this joy and peace as well! ~Mark
MORE MUSIC
Hear today’s featured song at GGSSPodcast.com or on your favorite streaming platform. You can also buy a CD at https://markalewinemusic.com/cd-everything
CUSTOM SONGS
Are you looking for a unique gift for someone who’s special AND hard to buy for? Over the years I have enjoyed writing a variety of custom songs such as theme songs and songs that celebrate or commemorate. I have written for businesses, non-profits, individuals, events and occasions. I'm excited to take these experiences and make this special type of gift more readily available. Click here to learn more>>>
YOU’RE INVITED
I’d like you to join the Friends Group! You’ll be one of the first to hear brand new songs, have access to a private page on our website with bonus content and share the journey with Cindy and I more closely than those who know us on social media only. You’ll receive 2-4 emails a month, as well as freebies and discounts in the store. Ready to join us?
ARE YOU ON FACEBOOK?
If so, join our Friends Group in a private Facebook Group where we can freely talk Jesus-music, God-stories, fun and faith journeys! Click here to request access.
God still speaks in the garden! Jeff Beaufoy joins me today to share some of his God-stories that will grab your attention and build your faith.
Without intentionality, it’s easy to fall prey to idols, like you’ll hear about today. Music is a powerful tool to safeguard your heart.
That’s why God has me on this journey of writing truth-filled songs – for your encouragement and benefit.
I invite you to visit the listening room on GGSSPodcast.com to experience these songs in a number of ways and to pass them along to others as well!
WHY GOD STORIES?
Why is it important to tell God stories? There are so many reasons but Jesus explained it best when He was asked about using so many parables. He said, “I tell stories, to create readiness, to nudge people toward receptive insight.” (That’s taken from Matthew 13 Message version). I’ve experienced God’s amazing work in my life through Jesus Christ and I’m passionate about others experiencing this joy and peace as well! ~Mark
CUSTOM SONGS
Are you looking for a unique gift for someone who’s special AND hard to buy for? Over the years I have enjoyed writing a variety of custom songs such as theme songs and songs that celebrate or commemorate. I have written for businesses, non-profits, individuals, events and occasions. I'm excited to take these experiences and make this special type of gift more readily available. Click here to learn more>>>
YOU’RE INVITED
I’d like you to join the Friends Group! You’ll be one of the first to hear brand new songs, have access to a private page on our website with bonus content and share the journey with Cindy and I more closely than those who know us on social media only. You’ll receive 2-4 emails a month, as well as freebies and discounts in the store. Ready to join us?
ARE YOU ON FACEBOOK?
If so, join our Friends Group in a private Facebook Group where we can freely talk Jesus-music, God-stories, fun and faith journeys! Click here to request access.
Need a new beginning in some area of your life? Start by taking a look at your connections.
Visit the Episode Webpage to hear Jesus You’re My Genesis and see the “One Another” infographic.
WHY GOD STORIES?
Why is it important to tell God stories? There are so many reasons but Jesus explained it best when He was asked about using so many parables. He said, “I tell stories, to create readiness, to nudge people toward receptive insight.” (That’s taken from Matthew 13 Message version). I’ve experienced God’s amazing work in my life through Jesus Christ and I’m passionate about others experiencing this joy and peace as well! ~Mark
MORE MUSIC
You can hear today’s featured song at GGSSPodcast.com or on your favorite streaming platform. You can buy a CD at https://markalewinemusic.com/cd-everything
CUSTOM SONGS
Are you looking for a unique gift for someone who’s special AND hard to buy for? Over the years I have enjoyed writing a variety of custom songs such as theme songs and songs that celebrate or commemorate. I have written for businesses, non-profits, individuals, events and occasions. I'm excited to take these experiences and make this special type of gift more readily available. Click here to learn more>>>
YOU’RE INVITED
I’d like you to join the Friends Group! You’ll be one of the first to hear brand new songs, have access to a private page on our website with bonus content and share the journey with Cindy and I more closely than those who know us on social media only. You’ll receive 2-4 emails a month, as well as freebies and discounts in the store. Ready to join us?
ARE YOU ON FACEBOOK?
If so, join our Friends Group in a private Facebook Group where we can freely talk Jesus-music, God-stories, fun and faith journeys! Click here to request access.
When was the last time you reflected on the best piece of advice you ever received? Have you passed it along to others? Well, you’re in for a treat today as guests from various walks of life share their best pieces of advice with us. Who knows what might happen as a result!
Visit the Episode Webpage to hear the newest song as mentioned on the show.
WHY GOD STORIES?
Why is it important to tell God stories? There are so many reasons but Jesus explained it best when He was asked about using so many parables. He said, “I tell stories, to create readiness, to nudge people toward receptive insight.” (That’s taken from Matthew 13 Message version). I’ve experienced God’s amazing work in my life through Jesus Christ and I’m passionate about others experiencing this joy and peace as well! ~Mark
MORE MUSIC
You can hear today’s featured song at GGSSPodcast.com or on your favorite streaming platform. You can buy a CD at https://markalewinemusic.com/cd-everything
CUSTOM SONGS
Are you looking for a unique gift for someone who’s special AND hard to buy for? Over the years I have enjoyed writing a variety of custom songs such as theme songs and songs that celebrate or commemorate. I have written for businesses, non-profits, individuals, events and occasions. I'm excited to take these experiences and make this special type of gift more readily available. Click here to learn more>>>
YOU’RE INVITED
I’d like you to join the Friends Group! You’ll be one of the first to hear brand new songs, have access to a private page on our website with bonus content and share the journey with Cindy and I more closely than those who know us on social media only. You’ll receive 2-4 emails a month, as well as freebies and discounts in the store. Ready to join us?
ARE YOU ON FACEBOOK?
If so, join our Friends Group in a private Facebook Group where we can freely talk Jesus-music, God-stories, fun and faith journeys! Click here to request access.
As always, thanks for listening! See you next week. Peace ~Mark
Jesus is real, friends! He shows up. He is powerful. He cares. Bette Murphy is living proof. Join us as she shares another God-story with us today that should leave you wanting more of Him.
Visit the Episode Webpage to hear the featured song, What Are We Gonna Do, or to contact Mark.
WHY GOD STORIES?
Why is it important to tell God stories? There are so many reasons but Jesus explained it best when He was asked about using so many parables. He said, “I tell stories, to create readiness, to nudge people toward receptive insight.” (That’s taken from Matthew 13 Message version). I’ve experienced God’s amazing work in my life through Jesus Christ and I’m passionate about others experiencing this joy and peace as well! ~Mark
MORE MUSIC
You can hear today’s featured song at GGSSPodcast.com or on your favorite streaming platform. You can buy a CD at https://markalewinemusic.com/cd-everything
CUSTOM SONGS
Are you looking for a unique gift for someone who’s special AND hard to buy for? Over the years I have enjoyed writing a variety of custom songs such as theme songs and songs that celebrate or commemorate. I have written for businesses, non-profits, individuals, events and occasions. I'm excited to take these experiences and make this special type of gift more readily available. Click here to learn more>>>
As always, thanks for listening! See you next week. Peace ~Mark
YOU’RE INVITED
I’d like you to join the Friends Group! You’ll be one of the first to hear brand new songs, have access to a private page on our website with bonus content and share the journey with Cindy and I more closely than those who know us on social media only. You’ll receive 2-4 emails a month, as well as freebies and discounts in the store. Ready to join us?
ARE YOU ON FACEBOOK?
If so, join our Friends Group in a private Facebook Group where we can freely talk Jesus-music, God-stories, fun and faith journeys! Click here to request access.
As always, thanks for listening! See you next week. Peace ~Mark
Today we’re talking about our response when fear becomes overwhelming. You’ll hear a harrowing story with an amazing conclusion from Bette Murphy, a delightful member of our FRIENDS GROUP. Trust me, you’ll want to catch what Bette’s got! Stay tuned and find out why.
Visit the Episode Webpage to hear the featured song, What Are We Gonna Do and join the Friends Group as well.
WHY GOD STORIES?
Why is it important to tell God stories? There are so many reasons but Jesus explained it best when He was asked about using so many parables. He said, “I tell stories, to create readiness, to nudge people toward receptive insight.” (That’s taken from Matthew 13 Message version). I’ve experienced God’s amazing work in my life through Jesus Christ and I’m passionate about others experiencing this joy and peace as well! ~Mark
MORE MUSIC
You can hear today’s featured song at GGSSPodcast.com or on your favorite streaming platform. You can buy a CD at https://markalewinemusic.com/cd-everything
CUSTOM SONGS
Are you looking for a unique gift for someone who’s special AND hard to buy for? Over the years I have enjoyed writing a variety of custom songs such as theme songs and songs that celebrate or commemorate. I have written for businesses, non-profits, individuals, events and occasions. I'm excited to take these experiences and make this special type of gift more readily available. Click here to learn more>>>
As always, thanks for listening! See you next week. Peace ~Mark
Transformation. Family man. Present. Matching tattoos. A new life. Talk about encouraging! Keep listening for part two of Travis’ God-story related to the song Lost Man. There's lots of life nuggets coming your way.
Visit the Episode Webpage to hear the song and learn more about things mentioned in the show including the new Lost Man t-shirt. Don’t forget to use promo code LOST MAN to get an extra 10% off.
WHY GOD STORIES?
Why is it important to tell God stories? There are so many reasons but Jesus explained it best when He was asked about using so many parables. He said, “I tell stories, to create readiness, to nudge people toward receptive insight.” (That’s taken from Matthew 13 Message version). I’ve experienced God’s amazing work in my life through Jesus Christ and I’m passionate about others experiencing this joy and peace as well! ~Mark
MORE MUSIC
You can hear today’s featured song at GGSSPodcast.com or on your favorite streaming platform. You can buy a CD at https://markalewinemusic.com/cd-everything
CUSTOM SONGS
Are you looking for a unique gift for someone who’s special AND hard to buy for? Over the years I have enjoyed writing a variety of custom songs such as theme songs and songs that celebrate or commemorate. I have written for businesses, non-profits, individuals, events and occasions. I'm excited to take these experiences and make this special type of gift more readily available. Click here to learn more>>>
YOU’RE INVITED
I’d like you to join the Friends Group! You’ll be one of the first to hear brand new songs, have access to a private page on our website with bonus content and share the journey with Cindy and I more closely than those who know us on social media only. You’ll receive 2-4 emails a month, as well as freebies and discounts in the store. Ready to join us?
ARE YOU ON FACEBOOK?
If so, join our Friends Group in a private Facebook Group where we can freely talk Jesus-music, God-stories, fun and faith journeys! Click here to request access.
As always, thanks for listening! See you next week. Peace ~Mark
Horses, pride, the wild-life and now a lost man is found and living the Jesus-life. Stay tuned to hear Travis’s amazing story related to the song, Lost Man.
Visit the Episode Webpage to hear the song and learn more about things mentioned in the show including the new Lost Man t-shirt. Don’t forget to use promo code LOST MAN to get an extra 10% off.
WHY GOD STORIES?
Why is it important to tell God stories? There are so many reasons but Jesus explained it best when He was asked about using so many parables. He said, “I tell stories, to create readiness, to nudge people toward receptive insight.” (That’s taken from Matthew 13 Message version). I’ve experienced God’s amazing work in my life through Jesus Christ and I’m passionate about others experiencing this joy and peace as well! ~Mark
MORE MUSIC
You can hear today’s featured song at GGSSPodcast.com or on your favorite streaming platform. You can buy a CD at https://markalewinemusic.com/cd-everything
CUSTOM SONGS
Are you looking for a unique gift for someone who’s special AND hard to buy for? Over the years I have enjoyed writing a variety of custom songs such as theme songs and songs that celebrate or commemorate. I have written for businesses, non-profits, individuals, events and occasions. I'm excited to take these experiences and make this special type of gift more readily available. Click here to learn more>>>
YOU’RE INVITED
I’d like you to join the Friends Group! You’ll be one of the first to hear brand new songs, have access to a private page on our website with bonus content and share the journey with Cindy and I more closely than those who know us on social media only. You’ll receive 2-4 emails a month, as well as freebies and discounts in the store. Ready to join us?
ARE YOU ON FACEBOOK?
If so, join our Friends Group in a private Facebook Group where we can freely talk Jesus-music, God-stories, fun and faith journeys! Click here to request access.
As always, thanks for listening! See you next week. Peace ~Mark
Vlad left a lucrative, powerful life in a very dark realm to live a brand new, forgiven life of faith as a result of an unexpected encounter with the living God. If you've ever had doubts about God's ability to reach literally anyone, you must listen to this episode.
One day over lunch, Vlad told Mark how hard it is to go through financially tough times, when he knows what he could have if he went back to that old way of life. Mark said, “Well praise God the old man is dead! Long live the new!” As soon as those words came out of his mouth, Mark realized it had to be a song!
If you’d like a special gift for someone who’s hard to shop for, consider having Mark write a custom song based on their life. LEARN MORE>>
Visit the Episode Webpage
WHY GOD STORIES?
Why is it important to tell God stories? There are so many reasons but Jesus explained it best when He was asked about using so many parables. He said, “I tell stories, to create readiness, to nudge people toward receptive insight.” (That’s taken from Matthew 13 Message version). I’ve experienced God’s amazing work in my life through Jesus Christ and I’m passionate about others experiencing this joy and peace as well! ~Mark
MORE MUSIC
You can hear today’s featured song at GGSSPodcast.com or on your favorite streaming platform. You can buy a CD at https://markalewinemusic.com/cd-everything
CUSTOM SONGS
Are you looking for a unique gift for someone who’s special AND hard to buy for? Over the years I have enjoyed writing a variety of custom songs such as theme songs and songs that celebrate or commemorate. I have written for businesses, non-profits, individuals, events and occasions. I'm excited to take these experiences and make this special type of gift more readily available. Click here to learn more>>>
YOU’RE INVITED
I’d like you to join the Friends Group! You’ll be one of the first to hear brand new songs, have access to a private page on our website with bonus content and share the journey with Cindy and I more closely than those who know us on social media only. You’ll receive 2-4 emails a month, as well as freebies and discounts in the store. Ready to join us?
ARE YOU ON FACEBOOK?
If so, join our Friends Group in a private Facebook Group where we can freely talk Jesus-music, God-stories, fun and faith journeys! Click here to request access.
When things get tough, press into Jesus. When they get really tough, press in even more. This episode is part 1 of the man’s story that inspired the song, Long Live the New! Vlad lived in utter darkness and now walks in new light….and a new struggle.
Vlad left a lucrative, powerful life in a very dark realm to live a brand new, forgiven life of faith as a result of an unexpected encounter with the living God. One day over lunch, Vlad told Mark how hard it is to go through financially tough times, when he knows what he could have if he went back to that old way of life. Mark said, “Well praise God the old man is dead! Long live the new!” As soon as those words came out of his mouth, Mark realized it had to be a song!
If you’d like a special gift for someone who’s hard to shop for, consider having Mark write a custom song based on their life. LEARN MORE>>
Be sure to listen to part 2 next week to hear the conclusion of Vlad’s supernatural encounter with God. If you've ever had doubts about God’s ability to reach literally ANYONE, you need to hear the rest of Vlad’s story!
Visit the Episode Webpage
WHY GOD STORIES?
Why is it important to tell God stories? There’s so many reasons but Jesus explained it best when He was asked about using so many parables. He said, “I tell stories, to create readiness, to nudge people toward receptive insight.” (That’s taken from Matthew 13 Message version). I’ve experienced God’s amazing work in my life through Jesus Christ and I’m passionate about others experiencing this joy and peace as well! ~Mark
MORE MUSIC
You can hear today’s featured song at GGSSPodcast.com or on your favorite streaming platform. You can buy a CD at https://markalewinemusic.com/cd-everything
CUSTOM SONGS
Are you looking for unique gift for someone who’s special AND hard to buy for? Over the years I have enjoyed writing a variety of custom songs such as theme songs and songs that celebrate or commemorate. I have written for businesses, non-profits, individuals, events and occasions. I'm excited to take these experiences and make this special type of gift more readily available. Click here to learn more>>>
YOU’RE INVITED
I’d like you to join the Friends Group! You’ll be one of the first to hear brand new songs, have access to a private page on our website with bonus content and share the journey with Cindy and I more closely than those who know us on social media only. You’ll receive 2-4 emails a month, as well as freebies and discounts in the store. Ready to join us?
ARE YOU ON FACEBOOK?
If so, join our Friends Group in a private Facebook Group where we can freely talk Jesus-music, God-stories, fun and faith journeys! Click here to request access.
Are you religious or related? The “orange story” helps make it clear.
Visit the Episode Webpage here.
CLICK HERE TO STREAM MARK’S MUSIC>>
Would you be able to trust God’s goodness if this happened to you? Stay tuned for an inspiring story and power tips for your journey.
Visit the Episode Webpage to hear the songs and download the printables.
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What does it mean to keep it simple at Christmas? I think you’ll enjoy this guilt-free perspective from a fellow believer and Christmas lover.
To hear the song, read the show notes or contact Mark, visit the Episode Webpage.
Here’s the lyrics to Keep It Simple…
Here we go again it’s the Christmas season
It’s a crazy time of year but we all know the reason
Trying to make it bigger and better than before
No holding back, there’s going to be more
Watching TV or turnin’ on the radio
There’s a big sale hurry up let’s go
Gotta get the newest thing this year
Hurry hurry hurry, Christmas is near
Christmas time oh what a season
Jesus Christ, yeah, He’s the reason
All the other things that happen are fine
Go ahead and sing your Christmas songs
No one’s sayin’ that’s wrong
But what we’re sayin’
Is keep it simple
Everywhere you turn seems you’re always on the run
Not enough time to get it all done
Parties and the concerts and the food and family
Send out all the cards and decorate the tree
Christmas at the mall and the kids on Santa‘s knee
Running here and there you’re as busy as could be
Fighting with the crowds standing in the line
Got so much to do and you’re running out of time
Christmas time oh what a season
Jesus Christ, yeah, He’s the reason
All the other things that happen are fine
Go ahead and sing your Christmas songs
No one’s sayin’ that’s wrong
But what we’re sayin’
Is keep it simple
Still we gotta know the reason why we celebrate the day
Without the birth of Jesus we’d get lost along the way
Christmas would be better if we’d just keep it simple
Christmas time oh what a season
Jesus Christ, yeah, He’s the reason
All the other things that happen are fine
Go ahead and sing your Christmas songs
No one’s sayin’ that’s wrong
But what we’re sayin’
Is keep it simple
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Last week we discussed the toxic impact of living from an empty cup. Today we turn the corner and run towards hope as our guest Chris Gallagher delivers some mighty empowering inspiration for positive life-change. Learn more >>>
Is your life going way too fast? You need to hear today’s story from Chris Gallagher. There is hope!
Hear the song
Contact Chris Gallagher
Chris’s website
Last week, my friend Mike Foote shared how God dive-bombed his suicide plan and started him on a beautiful faith journey. Stay tuned for some gold nuggets from Mike as well the answer to last week’s Listener Challenge.
(To hear the song, read the show notes or email Mark, visit the Episode Webpage.)
(Mark) Welcome back Mike! So tell us about one of the best pieces of advice that you've ever been given. Maybe how you applied that in your life.
(Mike) You know, I guess the best piece of advice I've ever been given it, really relates back to what we were just talking about, which is just give it to God, you know? And I think that's for many of us, so much easier said than done. I also think there's many times we think we are, but we're not. Right? I'm giving everything to you, God. But then we realize, well, I was giving you everything except for this one thing that I really want. And you know, and it's a piece of advice that, and it wasn't just from people, I mean, it's in God's word. He tells us to do that. People through the years have told me to do that. And I just, I couldn't do it. I couldn't just fully humble myself, you know? And I think there's a lot of reasons for that. You know, I think there's the fact that, you know, we're all sinful. I'm sinful. Certainly there's the fact that, you know, like I said, and I don't wanna say that I didn't grow up with a dad. I have a stepdad and he's been my dad ever since I can remember. But, you know, there is definitely a level of distrust when it comes to relationships. I feel like when you have, especially with fathers, that kind of hurt, it's difficult to trust even to trust God. I found myself saying a lot, I know God loves me, but I don't think He likes me very much. Right? Like, I know He loves me, but He wouldn't wanna hang out with me like on a Sunday and watch football or something. So when I finally took the advice, which, and there was no, there was no thought, like, okay, I have to take that advice now. That didn't even come into my mind until later. It was just the final realization that I had to give up myself. You know, there's a pastor that I, I kind of follow on YouTube, and one of the things he likes to say is, you know, "God knocks us down so we look up" and God certainly knocked me down. I was down as far as I could be and still be alive. I mean, looking back on my life, there's so many times where I shouldn't be alive. Whether it be drug overdose, I mean, I should have been murdered, I'm sure more than once, been in some really dangerous places at dangerous times, doing really stupid things. But God, I know without a doubt that God had His hand on my life and He's had His hand on my life ever since. And that doesn't mean of course I'm gonna live forever. Doesn't even mean that I might live through tomorrow. But He had a plan for me, and He pursued me throughout all of it. And the best thing I could ever do was finally say, God, you are the God of my life.I've tried the job and I suck at it. I am gonna let you do that job from here on out.
(Mark) And that's a daily decision. You know, when we can decide, okay, from this day going forward, right? But tomorrow you have to basically say the same thing from this day going forward, I'm going to, I'm gonna let You run my life. I'm gonna do my part, but I'm gonna let You run my life.
(Mike) Yeah, you know my wife and I were just talking about that. And one thing that we have discovered is, you know, all of the big decisions are almost always followed by a ton of little ones. You know, you know this, right? Just to talk about a little, you know, personally, you know, I've always struggled getting in the word and praying on a daily basis, and you've been really encouraging to me to do that. And I don't know what it was you told me, I can't remember. It was something about start a new habit or something that really clicked in me. So I made the decision, I'm gonna get in the word and pray every day. Well, that was the big decision. The little decision is getting up every day. First thing I do, I come downstairs, I start the coffee, I've got my Bible, and I pray I have a prayer list now. I pray through every day. And I get into the word, even if it's just for a little bit. So the big decisions are great, but you have to follow them up with the little ones.
(Mark) That's right. And that's been a, that's been a new habit for you. And it became a new habit for me, something that I, again, I, make a decision to do every day. I set my clock accordingly. Right? So that's just something that we do. And I love to see that in you. Well, you know, most everybody that's listened to our podcast realizes that Grit & Glory, Songs & Stories was started because somebody said, I love your music, Mark, but I want to hear the stories behind the music. Well, we tell the stories behind the music, but I also like to find how a song applies to somebody's life. And, and today we're kind of featuring the song Imagine Beautiful. And I, I let you kinda listen to all my songs and then you picked this one, Imagine Beautiful. And I would love, to know, and I'd love our listener to know, this song, How does it fit into your story? Imagine Beautiful. How does it fit into your story today?
(Mike) Well, what I thought of when I started listening to it was, you know, what we started talking about, which was that time, about nine and a half years ago, when things were over for me, or at least, so I thought, and I couldn't imagine anything beautiful. It was so dark around me. The way I've always described it is like everything was in shadow. And even the faces of my wife and children would look sinister just because of how dark everything was. And I couldn't imagine anything.
I mean, the best I could think of was, can I just not be in pain for a little bit? But you know, as I'm listening to your song, it just occurred to me that I can, I can imagine now and well not even, I can look back and see all of the beauty that God was doing in my life. And now I can imagine walking with Him, being with Him, working with Him on a daily basis and seeing things I never thought I would see. I mean, imagine beautiful. Imagine watching my daughter walk down the aisle. I mean, I was probably days away from never experiencing that. And for them not having me there, and just the ability to see, the ability to see beauty at all was really not possible for me at the time. And it took a really long time for me to, to really be able to, to kind of get outside of myself and be able to, I don't just look around and see other people for who they were, which were, you know, these are also God's children. I mean, for me, in my life, for years, people were either objects for me to use for one thing or another, or you know, with my horrible self-confidence and people pleasing, I would use them to feel better, try and make them like me, things like that. But Imagine Beautiful, you know, in the line "all the things that we could do". I just see myself walking hand in hand with the Lord with that. And just seeing, and it's not just, I mean, imagining our ultimate destination, you know, being with Jesus and the Lord in heaven, but imagine the beauty of suffering in this life for Him that's a beautiful thing as well. And there just knowing that when you're walking with the Lord, there's beauty in everything because He promises us that all things work together for the good of those who love Him. So, I mean, I feel like there's just so many things I could say about it. And one thing I would say too is I, I love it because I think, I hope people who listen to it, you're not, to me, I didn't feel like, you know, you listen to songs that tell a story and they're great. I love those old singer songwriters, but this one, I immediately knew the story and it was my story.
(Mark) Yeah I was surprised when you first told me that connection you have with Imagine Beautiful but I see it now.
Last week’s Listener Challenge was to find the “What’s Different” in the song. If you have yet listened to Imagine Beautiful, you can hear it on Spotify, YouTube, Apple Music…or GGSSPodcast.com if that’s easier. Here’s the hint I gave last week: “it’s in the chorus”
And here’s the answer:
The 1st chorus of Imagine Beautiful goes like this:
Imagine beautiful, all the things that we could do
Imagine beautiful, on the journey with you
Imagine beautiful, we are stronger than before
Don’t know where we’re going
But there’s so much more
Imagine Beautiful
In the 2nd chorus, instead of “Don’t know where we’re going”, it says:
Who knows where we’re going, and there’s so much more
Then in the 3rd chorus it says:
God knows where we’re going and there’s so much more. Imagine Beautiful
Did you catch it? Maybe you need that little bit of hope today. Whatever chorus fits your life best right now, there’s so much more! So let the music help you connect with God right where you’re at and truly to allow yourself to imagine beautiful in your own life!
I hope Mike’s story will reach many, many people that that might be desperate for something else. And we know what that is. That's a touch from the Lord and a new life.
(Mike) You know, I just wanna say one thing real quick. It's just that, you know, the enemy wants to convince us all that we're alone. We're the only ones that have gone through this, we're the only ones that have struggled with this. I was sexually abused when I was a child. That's not something I never wanted to talk about, but I did. And I can tell you that was when I first came to Celebrate Recovery, one of the first things I was finally able to talk about. And that was the start of the healing for me. So whoever's listening, you know, you've, whatever you've gone through, there are people who have gone through it and have come out the other side of it. And that's what it was for me, sitting around a table with a bunch of people, you know, a bunch of guys who had been through and were going through what I'd been through at least something similar. And they had somehow made it through with God's help. So please talk to somebody. Know that you are not alone, that God is with you, that He grieved when that happened to you, whatever that was. And He is ready if you are. I'm telling you, if you are ready to give up control of your life and say, God, your will be done. He is ready right now to connect you with a ton of different people who can help you and to shower you with just amazing blessings to get you through each and every day. And it's not gonna be a cake walk necessarily, but you're gonna be so amazingly glad you did it.
(Mark) Right on. That's fantastic. Well, thank you so much, Mike. I really appreciate you taking the time here late at night to be able to do this with us. It means a lot to me personally and I’m sure it means a lot to our listeners as well.
If you’re listening today and can relate to Mike’s story or you want to know how you can experience a new life with God too, I’d love to hear from you. You are not alone. Shoot me an email at podcast@markalewinemusic.com or through the GGSSPodcast website. Imagine beautiful is for you as well!
Most people think of “Imagine Beautiful” as a wedding song. However, for one man, it’s become the soundtrack to his life of recovery. Stay tuned for some interesting twists and turns as the story unfolds as well as a listening challenge.
To hear the song, read the show notes or email Mark, visit the episode webpage.
Welcome to Grit & Glory, Songs & Stories. I'm so glad that you have decided to join us today.
I’m here with a long-time friend of mine, Mike Foote.
Mike has some amazing God-stories that should inspire faith and hope – for your own life or for a person you’ve been praying for during a difficult time in their life.
Mike, welcome to the show. To start us off, would you tell us about a time you thought it was all over and how you were able to overcome.
(Mike) Oh, it's great to be here. Thanks for having me.
(Mike) Oh, well, unfortunately, I mean, for me, I guess I've got a couple of times I, I could choose from. But for me, the one that comes to mind the most, because it was the time that everything really changed was about, well, when we met almost 10 years ago now, I struggled with depression and anxiety my whole life due to some abuse that I suffered when I was a kid. There's some other issues, you know. My father left when I was about a year old, never to be seen again. And I think that when, you know, when a parent who you know, the people in the world who are supposed to love you the most, abandon you, I think that's pretty catastrophic. So there was that. Over the years, you know, I made a lot bad decisions. I got involved in drugs and alcohol, lots of other things, and tended to medicate quite a lot with whatever I could get my hands on. An equal opportunity abuser is how I used to describe myself. And over the years you just kind of go down a spiral. And there have been a couple of times where I, you know, it was a point where I didn't think I would make it past that, but then I would, and then I would. But then about nine and a half, 10 years ago, I was in the worst period of depression and anxiety of my life, which was really saying a lot beause I've been through some pretty, pretty rough times and I was planning my suicide. And just for some context, I’m married. I have a wife and two daughters. My daughters at the time were one and five years old. And I had convinced myself basically that they would be better off without me, or what I actually convinced myself was, I'm gonna die sometime and they're going to be mourning me. What difference does it make when that happens?
You know, in hindsight, obviously that's extremely foolish. I mean, they're, especially at that age, they need a dad. But, so that's just kind of a lead up to I'm planning my suicide, I'm, I'm ready to do it. I'm thinking about how do I make it look like an accident, trying to think of a place, things like that. And I'm working all of that out. And at that time we hadn't been going to church for a while and we had gone to a couple of churches that had some really big issues. They had both split very acrimonious, and we kind of swore off Christians. And we started going to the church that we go to now here in Minnesota. And the second week I was there, met someone who told me about a recovery program that the church sponsors and went to the recovery program the following Monday night. This story about how that happened is also kind of crazy, but, and then I met you and it just, the first thing that happened was I finally was able to humble myself before God. I was, and that's kind what I had been missing all along was I had gotten to a point where I know I can't do this without God. I can't move forward on my own. I don't have the strength to do it. I'm ready to just give up. But God, at the last possible moment, as He likes to do, rescued me by introducing me to someone who told me about the recovery program and then walking in the door that night, I met you, who immediately grabbed me up and, Hey, what's your name? How are you? What's going on? We did the meeting and we chatted afterwards. And, you know, looking back on that, my life didn't change in that moment, in as much as everything's different, oh my gosh, you know, everything's gonna be, you know, peaches and roses from here on out. But what happened was, I got just enough hope to put things off. And that was from me finally giving up what I thought was control and just handing it over to God. And when that happened, He just connected me immediately with a bunch of different people you included, who were able to help me to help me get through that. And it's been a, it's been a long process, I can tell you that I'm completely different now in so many ways. And I think you can attest to that.
(Mark) Absolutely.
(Mike) Than I was, you know, when I walked in there. I still struggle. I mean, don't get me wrong, it's not like I, I don't struggle at all. I still do, but it's to me more normal struggles rather than this awful crushing weight of anxiety and depression. I will say that everything, every good thing that's ever happened to me in life happened because of a relationship. And the first relationship is with Jesus. And out of that has sprung so many others and He just has tended to show up, you know, when I need Him. And like, it just happened again recently. I won't go into that story, but it's at the last possible minute, God showed up and saved me from what might have been a pretty, pretty awful set of circumstances. So I guess for me it, it was all about giving up control, humbling myself and just realizing and admitting that I can't do it, and God, I need you. I'm done without you. And I think that was how II got through that time and that was, that was a watershed moment. It was a game changer because I think once you do that, you, at least for me, I find it extremely difficult to back to the old way of just trying to be, not that I don't from time to time, but I never go back to completely, I can do this, I'm fine. I can white knuckle this because I know I can't. I know where that road leads and God's been faithful ever since.
(Mark) I love your story so much. I think I, I would like to rabbit trail just a little bit. It's more than a rabbit trail really, because the story of how you ran into this person that told you about this recovery ministry is worth talking about just for a couple of minutes here. I think it's, actually key to your story honestly. So if you don't mind, would you tell us a little bit about that?
(Mike) Sure. So as I said, we, we hadn't even really been looking for a church, but we had been encouraged by some family members who were really getting frustrated with us, to be honest. And you guys need to get to a church, you haven't gone in a long time. And I said, fine, okay. So I went to our church, what has been our church home ever since. And by myself one weekend. Didn't like it, thought, I don't know, the music's not that great and the preaching's not that great. And I wasn't in the mood to like anything at that point.
Well the following week I decided to bring my family, my wife and daughters, and we went to the service and afterwards they were having what they called a meet the pastor Sunday, basically saying, you know, hey, if you haven't met the pastor here, come on out and get in line and he would love to chat with you for a couple of minutes. So we said, Oh, well yeah, we'll go meet the pastor. So we go up and we're standing in line and there's a woman there named Lori and she said, you know he's chatting with this other couple, if you don't mind, can you just wait a moment, you know, while you're here, can you please fill out this form just so we can kind of get to know you and maybe contact you and pray for you and things like that.
So I'm filling out this form and I give it to her and she saw my last name and she said, Oh, that's an interesting last name. You know, my sister dated someone with this last name all through high school and I don't have a super common last name. And I said, Well that's really only applicable to me if you're from eastern Iowa. Now, keep in mind that we're hundreds and hundreds of miles away from there right now. And I said, you know, a little town called Dewitt. And she said, I am from Dewitt. And I said, Oh, When we found out that yes, her sister had dated my brother all through high school, I know her sister very well, and I had, I had never met her because she had, I don't know why I hadn't met her, I left to join the Army. But anyway, it was just one of those wild "coincidences" that God throws at you. And so the following week was the week that things were kind of coming to a head for me. And I was walking through the foyer, coming back from getting coffee or something and I saw her and she's like, Hey Mike, how are you? And I said, Oh, you know, I'm actually not doing that great. And I don't know why I was honest at that point. And she said, Oh, what's going on? And I just kind of told her briefly, you know, I've been struggling. And she goes, you know, we have this thing called Celebrate Recovery and it meets on Monday nights and it's tomorrow night because it was Sunday, obviously we're at church. And she said, You should go. So I did. And that was the beginning. You know, it's just amazing to me the way God weaves our lives together. Because one of the reasons, there's no doubt in my mind that that Lori came to Minnesota was to meet me. There's no doubt about it. I mean, many other reasons. Certainly she's an amazing person, but that was certainly one of them. And God meant it to save my life and it did. So I don't know, I mean, I've got, there's so many things that have happened to me that are just like that, that are impossible really without God's intervention. And you can say yes, coincidence, but I mean, at that moment, at that time, picking that church, it's just, it's an awful lot of coincidences if you ask me.
(Mark) It really is. And you know, that, the interesting thing about that too is because--I was on staff too, I was the worship pastor at the time--and, we bounced from campus to campus. So the fact that she was there the day that you ran into her was kind of a critical thing because she bounced from campus to campus as well. And so that's what, you know, there's that such a time as this, you know, it was that moment and I've loved the transformation that's gone on in your life. It's, it's been something else to behold and to walk alongside you and, and to see your family. And, and it's been a beautiful, beautiful piece. I'm so happy about that, Mike.
OK, now that we’ve heard the backdrop of Mike’s Imagine Beautiful story, we’re gonna hit pause for time-sake.
But next week, Mike will be back to share a couple gold nuggets that you don’t want to miss. You’ll see why Imagine Beautiful truly is Mike’s story and how it can be yours as well.
In the meantime, I have a challenge for you as a GGSSPodcast listener – a “What’s Different” challenge.
Go find the song Imagine Beautiful on Spotify, YouTube, Apple or on GGSSPodcast.com if that’s easier and see if you can hear the 3 differences within the song.
Let me give you a hint…it’s in the chorus. Shoot me and email and let me know what you discover.
I’ll reveal the answer next week when we dig a little deeper into Mike’s story.
Do you need a good laugh today (or at least a big smile)? Stay tuned for a fun song and some funny fishing stories.
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Story #1
Back in the mid 80s I had a friend at college named Reed who loved to fish as much as I did. One day he told me about catfishing on the St. Croix River and how people were catching big ones all the time. He called it brainless fishing and he was so excited and he got me all pumped up for it. He closed out the conversation saying, “hurry man, they’re bitin.’” I was so excited!
Big catfish aren’t good for eating but they are really really fun for catching because they’re super strong. The best time is in the evening after dark. Now being from the south, catfish was something that we caught all the time. Smaller catfish, 2 pounds or so, are pretty good to eat but this was strictly big catfish fishing we’re talking about now and we were gonna come back with some real tales.
Reed and I bought some chicken livers and gizzards, because that’s what catfish like, and got to our fishing spot around 830pm. We were practically running from the car to the river to catch these big catfish. We were so excited and we were almost screaming with excitement like little kids on Christmas morning.
We got down there and Baited our hooks and cast them as far as we could under this bridge on the Saint Croix, the perfect spot for big catfish. And we waited.
Now, The stories that we had heard about these big catfish were pretty incredible. I can’t even remember where he heard the stories or read about them but we knew that they were coming. We talked and laughed and waited. We glanced at our rods that were propped up against our tackle boxes so that we could see the end of the rod tip move when we got a bite. And we talk some more and then we reeled in our lines because we knew that somehow the fish had taken off our bait.
We were ready to bait our hooks again but when we had reeled all the way in, our liver and other chicken parts were still there. So we cast out again and put our rods up against the tackle boxes so the rod tip was high so we could see that rod tip move when the big fish hit. And we talked some more and glanced some more in reeled in again to make sure the fish hadn’t taken our bait. The bait was still there so we cast out again and talked and glanced and reeled in to check our bait. Two hours or so had past and we realized there were no fish to be caught tonight. We’d been skunked but at least no one was around to see us tuck our tails and go back home.
Story #2
Fast forward several months and we are in Puerto Rico doing our internship together. Reed found a fishing charter somewhere off the East Coast which was only about 45 minutes away. He told me this charter catches the most and the biggest fish on this side of the island. It didn’t cost very much and all you had to do was bring your own rod. And then he said, “let’s hurry man, they’re bitin.’”
We got everything lined up. I grabbed my rod and a little bit of tackle. I asked Reed if we needed to bring sinkers. He said they provided everything but the pole. I said “are you sure” and he said “Yep. Let’s go!”
So off we went along with 2 other friends who were fluent in Spanish to the east side of the island. Seven guys were waiting for us there. One of our Spanish-speaking friends started talking with them in Spanish working out the details. We agreed on a price, gathered what little bit of stuff that we had brought and started walking to the boat. As we walked away, we heard these guys mumbling a little bit but Reed and I didn’t know what they were saying. We get down to the boat and now it’s just the Spanish-speaking captain of the boat and us 4. And off we went. And Reed and I were giggling like two elementary school kids on the last day of school.
We drove for about 30 minutes. When we arrived at the spot, the captain brought the bait to us and we baited our hooks. And I said to Reed, “Can you ask the captain for the sinkers?” Reed turned to our Spanish-speaking friend Nichas and asked him to ask the captain and so he did. And the captain looked at us and he said words that I will never forget, “Sin Plomo? No Lead? Impossible!”
I think he realized he was basically ending the trip by saying “impossible” and quickly backtracked saying “possible, maybe possible”. Well, it wasn’t. We cast our line but the bait just floated on top of the water. We were in about 100 feet of water and, of course, the fish were down at the bottom. I looked at Reed and he gulped and said he was sorry. We tell the captain we want to go back to the dock. As we are traveling, I’m sitting on the side of the boat staring at the water and I said, “those guys are gonna crack up laughing when they see us coming back in so early”. I said to Reed, “I’m not even gonna look at them. I’m just gonna look the other way.”
We started pulling into the small marina and one of the guys in the group yells out, “Que Paso?” (What’s happening?) And our captain yells back to them that dreaded phrase, “Sin Plomo.” And these seven guys crack up laughing. They are beside themselves with laughter and our captain starts laughing and I and my buddy and our other two friends were as embarrassed as we could be.
Getting off the boat, we have to walk right by these seven guys and they are still laughing and I remember turning my head the opposite direction as I walked by them because I was so embarrassed. I was practically running to the car. One of our friends negotiated a reduced price because of our inability to bring what we needed. And we got in the car and left the area as quickly as we could. We were so embarrassed that we could hardly talk to each other.
As we’re driving home, we go around the curve in a little run-down neighborhood only going about 20 miles an hour or so and right then we had to stop quickly because there was this little old lady, I’m going to put her around 90 years old, crossing the street, this dirt road really, right in front of us and she was smoking the biggest cigar I have ever seen in my life. And it struck all of us in such a funny way that we started laughing harder and harder. It was exactly what we needed that particular moment. I’m sure she didn’t know but man that was hilarious.
Ever have those kind of stories? I’m sure you do. We all do.
Story #3
Despite fishing disappointments and embarrassment, I still love it and learn valuable lessons along the way! Back in 1988, my friend Paul and I decided to take our two 6-year-old boys fishing up north for a few days. We had found an article in a fishing magazine talking about Pelican Lake in Orr Minnesota. That’s about 50 miles south of Canada up in an area of Minnesota called the Iron Range. It’s absolutely stunning up there. And it’s a good long drive, about 4 1/2 hours or so. It was an area that we had never been to and we’re pretty excited about it. We borrowed a 14-foot fishing boat with a six horse motor, packed up all of our fishing gear and off we went. We also borrowed a small pop-up camper as we were going to be up there for three days.
We soon realized that Pelican Lake’s Orr Bay was bigger than most lakes close to where we lived even though it was a very small part of Pelican Lake itself. We never really got out of that little bay the whole time because the boat and motor were too small for 4 people on such a big lake. But we had an incredible time.
We were fishing one morning and my son was doing something and he accidentally bumped his rod and it fell into the water. Inside I was so mad but I remember getting down on one knee and looking at him and saying, “Steve, you just need to be more careful.” I said it very calmly and lovingly and he felt bad and I didn’t want him to feel bad. Stuff happens, right?
Fast forward another year and we decide to go fishing again. We had so much fun the year before but we also thought that maybe we could take a little bigger boat and get out on the lake a little bit more. So we borrowed a larger boat which was a 16 foot with a 20 horse motor. Since the boys had such a great time the year before, it was quite exciting to do this again.
The bigger boat was certainly the ticket. We went up to the north side of Orr Bay (where we had fished the previous year), turned left and went out into the big part of the lake. Pelican lake is about 10 miles wide and about 6 miles north to south. It’s a very large lake. As we turned the corner to go into the bigger part of the lake away from Orr Bay, we saw an island on the right and decided to fish right there. We were in about 15 feet of water and I had a swivel seat as I was driving the boat. The motor was a tiller style so it had a long handle coming off the motor and that’s how you steered.
Steve came and asked me for some help with something. I put my rod down beside me and I swiveled my seat to face him. Steve said, “dad something fell in the water”. I looked back and realized that I knocked my rod into the water as I swiveled in the seat. 15 feet of water. This was in May. Ice was out about two weeks before and the water was somewhere around 55°. I wasn’t going in after the rod. But instantly, my mind went back to the year before when Steve had dropped his rod in the water and I tried to remember my reaction and I just remember taking a deep breath and being grateful that I didn’t act like a jerk to my six-year-old son over him dropping his rod in the water when I turned around and did the same thing in essence the next year.
And we’ve had some good laughs over that. As a matter of fact, we even changed the name of the island. The island had a name, Bailey Island. We re-named it Berkeley Island because Berkeley was the manufacturer of the rod I lost there, right in front of the island.
Steve and I have been doing this fishing trip every year now for the last 34 years and we still call the island Berkeley Island. Good memories.
Funny or not so funny…that’s not the only island that’s been re-named due to a lost rod or two over the years! Stuff happens but we can make good memories anyway, right?
Why am I telling you these stories? I love to laugh and make others laugh. Fish and fishing are mentioned quite a bit in the Bible as well. Jonah and the Whale is one of the most famous fish stories of all time. I’m telling you fishing Stories while listening to a instrumental of a song about Jonah and the whale. Makes sense to me :-)
If you haven’t read the book of Jonah in a while, I highly recommend you open up the Old Testament in the Bible and read it. It’s only four chapters but it’s quite gripping! It’s a favorite with kids but also has a powerful message for us all! The instrumental you’re hearing in the background is from a song I co-wrote for a sermon series on the book of Jonah called Belly of the Beast. It’s a fun song with an important message. The chorus says:
When we say no, we say no to God’s best
We gotta know, that this life is just a test
When we call out for refuge, He give us His hand
He’ll never leave us; He’ll take us to dry land
In a nutshell, Jonah was a prophet who was sent to warn the people of Nineveh of their impending doom. Instead of doing as he was told by God, Jonah ran away and boarded a ship headed the opposite direction. The ship was caught in a storm and Jonah was thrown overboard. He was swallowed by a whale and spent three days and nights inside its stomach. After he prayed for forgiveness, the whale vomited him out on the shore and he completed the work God told him to do.
Can you imagine. You know the things that we’ve seen in cartoons and otherwise, someone being swallowed by a whale and they’re in like this big cave and they can talk and move around inside there. Obviously that’s not a true representation. Can you imagine being that confined with all the slime and everything else that’s going on inside a whales belly? How Scary would that be? But it says, “in deep trouble I prayed to God and he answered me. From the belly of the grave I cried, help! You heard my cry!” You can read the rest of that prayer in Jonah chapter 2. It’s absolutely beautiful.
So it makes me think, how have I been running from what God wants me to do in my life? That’s a good question for all of us I think.
I was in a conversation with someone last evening about the experiences that we’ve had throughout our lifetime and the mistakes we’ve made along the way. Some of the experiences and consequences were really really rough but we learned from them and grew as a result. How we wish we could explain this to the younger generation so that they wouldn’t have to go through the same things that we went through. It seems like most everybody has to have their experiences however.
Do I think God is going to cause a whale to swallow us? I don’t know. As for Myself, I do want to learn from the story of Jonah. I do want to listen and obey and I want to do that with all my heart and energy. How bout you?
Music makes stuff stick so I encourage you to listen to Belly of the Beast at markalewinemusic.com, Spotify, YouTube or most any other streaming platform.
Thanks for listening to this episode. I hope it made you smile today. Peace
Although we can’t opt-out of the spiritual battles we face each day, we can opt-into God’s amazing plan of victory that includes laughter and singing. Sound strange?... Keep listening.
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Everyday battles turn into everyday conversations and often into song! In talking with many of my friends, I realize that I’m not the only one who experiences battles daily. Some days, the battles are more relentless than others. Then we go to bed and wake up the next day… And it starts all over. Can you relate?
THE BATTLE IS NOT VOLUNTARY
Whether you like it or not, you’re in a battle. There are 2 Kingdoms at war, God’s kingdom and the Kingdom of darkness. There’s no true middle ground like we would like to think and there’s no opt-out. If you don’t recognize the battle, maybe it’s because of spiritual blindness. It’s easy to recognize the battle when I’m tempted or when things are really hard. However, when things have been going really good for me, I often forget there’s a battle. I get lulled to sleep, grow slack and even indifferent to the battle raging in the heavenly realm. My focus tends to settle on me and the illusion of “my kingdom” rather than God’s kingdom.
Today’s featured song is called Enough. The first verse starts out with…
The enemy says THAT choice is no big deal
Just do what you want, do what you feel
LAUGHABLE
And sometimes, it’s laughable the blatant tactics the enemy uses. Sometimes so predictable, so obvious, I just have to laugh. You can think of any particular situation that you want, something that you perhaps struggle with and you want to have a victory over it. So you pray and ask God for strength and then the enemy puts that thing right in your path, sometimes almost immediately, whatever you’re seeking to overcome. There’s times when I’ve actually had the laugh out loud and hopefully, right in the enemies face at the things that he’s trying to put in front of me that go against what God wants for me. I’m telling you, this happens all the time. And it’s just laughable when I recognize it. It’s not laughable when I fall for it. Well, the enemy is laughing for sure.
NO BIG DEAL
How many times have you heard that little voice saying things like, “other Christians are doing it”, “no one will get hurt” or “God understands” and you feel justified doing what you want, what you feel? How laughable that the same enemy who tells us “THAT choice is no big deal” is the same one that immediately condemns us for giving in, calling us losers and unworthy. What a weird cycle to keep falling into.
DOES IT REALLY MATTER
The verse continues:
He says there’s nothing we can do or say that can change this world anyway and he says what a waste of time it is to pray.
If we don’t fall for the “no big deal” trick, our enemy might try to disarm us by raising doubts about prayer. I love the quote by Samuel Chadwick that says, “Satan dreads nothing but prayer. His one concern is to keep the saints from praying. He fears nothing from prayerless studies, prayerless work, prayerless religion. He laughs at our toil, he mocks our wisdom, but he trembles when we pray.”
Sometimes we feel like praying and feel like prayer works; other times it’s an act of faith and obedience! But trust me, it works!
The song continues…
Then God reminds me of who I am! I say ENOUGH IS ENOUGH!
This is powerful!
GOD REMINDS US OF WHO WE ARE
We come to our senses when God reminds us of who we are. We need to wake up and say, “enough”!
Many years ago, Cindy and I went with our kids, my sister and her two kids to Disney World. In the hotel lobby, we saw a sign about “free tickets to Epicot Center”. Considering our tight budget, that sounded awesome! All we had to do was attend a breakfast and short presentation about fabulous Florida vacations. Sounded like a no-brainer. Cindy, my sister and I made a pac we would NOT buy anything but just listen long enough to get the free tickets. So we left the 4 kids alone in the hotel room with breakfast, cartoons and strict orders to stay put.
We arrived at the ballroom and quick ate our breakfast to the blare of festive party music. As we listened to the sales pitch, we started nodding our heads, talking about what a nice gift it would be for our parents. We were slowly loosing touch with our previous resolution. The sales person rambled down a long list of benefits saving the most important one for last. Guess what it was? According to the sales person, “THE SAFETY OF YOUR CHILDREN” was the #1 reason for choosing to stay in the resort rather than any ol’ hotel room in Florida. Flares went off in our heads! We came to our senses and the three of us got out of there as quickly as possible and raced upstairs to the hotel room and the kids. What a life lesson! In essence we remembered who we were as parents and said ENOUGH! It’s important to stay close to the Lord, have His word in recent memory so if you start getting lulled into a wrong direction, He can remind you of who you are and you can snap out of it!
ENOUGH
There’s a lot at stake if we don’t say ENOUGH. We might do the enemy’s work for him and beat ourselves up. Or we waste time and strength struggling to believe that God still loves us or that things will ever change. When the enemy makes us feel like failures, I believe it effectively takes us out of any battle. It makes us feel weak and hopeless and we certainly aren’t very effective in our daily struggles. And then we become less effective warriors for the kingdom. We don’t have to allow this. The Lord promises to give us strength and hope and He tells us how to live it out.
ARMOR OF GOD
The power to say ENOUGH and live out God’s promises comes from essential spiritual habits. One of those is putting on the whole armor of God as described in Ephesians 6. Let me read this to you from the English standard version starting at verse 10 of Ephesians 6.
Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm. Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breast plate of righteousness, and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace. In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish All the flaming darts of the evil one; and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the spirit, which is the word of God, praying at all times in the spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end, keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints
My pastor told me about a friend of his who symbolically puts on the whole armor of God first thing in the morning starting when he puts his feet down on the floor to get out of bed. He puts on each of the pieces of armor symbolically and then goes about his day. Now that may sound a little silly but it’s actually a very practical application of what this means. It’s making yourself ready, being aware mentally and spiritually for the battles of the day. And you know, there’s gonna be battles virtually every day. I encourage you to dig deeper in the Armor of God. Check out a wonderful resource by Dr Tony Evans at GGSSPodcast.com Episode 16.
OTHER ESSENTIAL HABITS
I’ve mentioned this a few times in the past that spending time in the word of God and praying first thing in the morning are key components of your spiritual success for the day. Giving God your first fruits of the day, the first 15 minutes or so before you do anything else, is honoring to Him and prepares you spiritually. Right along these lines, this is when the enemy usually starts his attack, when we first open up our eyes and our mind gets going. Sometimes it’s “what’s the use…” thinking, or, “I’m soo tired” or “I’m just too busy” lines that the enemy feeds us and we buy into it. That is when we need to draw the line in the sand and start the day with the Lord. It is a deliberate, intentional act to stand against the enemy and to stand with the Lord. It’s a deliberate intentional act to put on the whole armor of God and to use the word of God in the situations that come throughout our day. And the only way we can use the Word of God against the enemy is to study the Word of God and to pray and be connected to the Lord of the universe.
DIFFERENT DAY, SAME OLD STUFF
God is faithful to remind me of who I am. But am I listening? Sometimes. Other times I’m preoccupied. Preoccupied with grief or stress or something fun. Sometimes I’m preoccupied with a cycle of failure, repeating the same behaviors but surprised when I don’t get different results. Sometimes, like the song says, “It’s a different day, but the same old stuff.” Does any of this sound familiar?
NEW HABITS
I heard these people talking one day about Celebrate Recovery. It was on social media I believe. People were talking about the great experience that they had with Celebrate Recovery. But one guy weighed in and he said this, “Celebrate Recovery works for some people but I attended for a whole year and yet I still drink.” He was effectively blaming Celebrate Recovery for his continued drinking problem rather than his own actions.
Knowing the truth is important! Being with people heading in the direction you want to go is powerful! Nothing can take the place, though, of a close personal relationship with the Lord, your life source, and consistently taking actions of trust and obedience, day after day after day. It takes practice till new habits are formed and cycles of failure break down; habits like spending time with the Lord, praising, reading the Word, praying and listening throughout our day, doing life with believers who will care enough to call you out, speak into your life and expect you to do the same for them. With new habits comes a new awareness and new results. I’m not saying perfect but new results.
The bridge of the song says this:
I’ll lift my head up, I’ll put my armor on
I’ll join the battle and we’ll be singing your song
Of your greatness and your victory
Of your redemption for the world to see
LIFT YOUR HEAD UP
This simple act can make such a difference. No matter how you feel at a particular moment, refuse to walk around with your head down acting as if defeat is inevitable. It’s an act of faith, agreeing with how God sees us.
PUT YOUR ARMOR ON
Put on the whole armor of God daily, not just when we feel weak. We must do our part in preparing for the battle each day!
JOIN THE BATTLE
Like I mentioned earlier, the battle is not something we can opt out of. It is a fact of life. It’s not something we do alone as a lone ranger either. Sometimes pride sneaks in and we think we can tackle the world, just us and God. Nope! We are meant to love, serve, do battle, and stand strong alongside fellow believers. They remind us of who we are and who God is when we need it, and we do the same for them.
SING
Join others in the battle and for heaven sake, sing! You might say, “Mark, you’ve never heard me sing before.”
That may be true but you’re not singing for me, you’re singing for the Lord of the universe. And He loves your voice and He loves your choice to sing glory and praise to Him.
Throughout the Bible are numerous passages about singing. When you and I sing to the Lord, we are being obedient, we are making war, strengthening our spirits, opening ourselves up to His joy, digging our roots deeper in the Word and building up others in a group setting. You can see scripture references for each of these at GGSSPodcast.com Episode 16.
The song, Enough, has an amazing groove that’s driving and I guess I would look at it as sort of, decisive, if that’s possible in music. I think you’ll like the feel of this song and I think the words will ring true as you listen.
You can listen to Enough on most streaming platforms or at GGSSPodcast.com Episode 16. That’s where you’ll also find a great resource to better understand the armor of God from Dr. Tony Evans.
Thanks for listening. Peace
Are you looking for a glimmer of hope during a dark time right now? You’re not alone! Kathy Tschida joins Mark to share with you some powerful, practical tips from her own God-story as well as the song that came about as a result. It could be just what you need today!
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(Mark) Well, you remember last week that I told you that my friend Kathy Tschida and I wrote this song called Impossible is Possible, and I told you that next week she was going to be a guest on our show.
And so she's here today and I'm so glad to have Kathy with us, Kathy. Welcome. I'm so glad you're here.
(Kathy) Glad to be here. Thank you.
(Mark) Absolutely. So we've written quite a few songs together already, and we've got another write scheduled and I'm really looking forward to that. I love writing with you.
I just wanted to ask you a few questions about this particular song, Impossible as Possible. So if you wouldn't mind telling us a little bit about maybe an end of the rope story that you've got, do you have one?
(Kathy) Okay. Yeah. So the, the one that came to mind was a little over a year ago, we went through what I like to call all the things at once.
We had a situation, a legal situation with my daughter and her biological dad. My dog was attacked. I had a best friend stop being friends with me and my husband was going through job stuff. So like, it all happened at the same time. And it literally felt like it was the end of the rope. It felt impossible.
It felt like only God could pull all this through. And He did. He completely did. He completely got us through it. And without Him, I don't know how I would've handled it all. Cause it was all the things at the same time, everything all at once.
(Mark) That sounds terrible. So would you put that as one of the biggest challenges that you've had to overcome?
Do you have others?
(Kathy) Yes. I feel like I have quite a few of those. That was one, the divorce was another one that was quite a few years ago now. Cause it came out of nowhere. My dad passing away. That was a definitely a big challenge. I've had some current things that are really kind of hard to talk about, but definitely some of the biggest challenges. So I feel like you go through one big challenge and then somehow another one comes up and they kind of feel like they don't end sometimes.
(Mark) Yeah. I, I can totally relate to that. You know, I think everybody, if they stop and think about it has had these end of the rope moments we hear.
And I think it's important for us as believers to be able to share these with other people because somebody who knows maybe even right this minute might be going through an end of the rope moment. One of those impossible moments, you know, as I said in last week's episode, I had come to the point that I didn't wanna be here on earth anymore.
And yes, I said that somebody might be at that particular point right now. So I think it's important for us to be able to share our stories with other people. And that's kind of the purpose of, of this podcast is to be able to give people hope and help. So let me ask you another question here. How did you overcome the fear and maybe that little voice in your head that said you couldn't do this or you couldn't do that or you get to the point that you're at today?
How did you overcome all those things to get to where you are today?
(Kathy) There was a lot of prayer, a lot of taking a specific Bible verse. Last year when I was going through all those things, I literally had a note in my phone with all sorts of Bible verses and I would go through them when those fear and the doubts and stuff would come.
The other thing that really helped honestly, is counseling. Talking to someone who is a licensed therapist, who could help me figure out what was really bothering me, how to go through it. I went to a Christian so that they used the Word and stuff that was really important. And all of those things combined helped me change my thinking. And I think that's really what it is,
is like you have to change your thinking from fear to what God says. And that's where it's simple. Like put a, you know, put a verse in the memo of your phone so you can look at it. You don't have to memorize it. Just look at it every time that thought comes, it's like, nope, God didn't give me a spirit of fear.
That was one I used a lot. God did not give me a spirit of fear, but power love and a sound mind. I could cast all my anxieties on Him because He never leaves me. Yeah. Those kind of things and put them where you can see them. And so you don't have to try to rely on your own mind to come up with them.
You have a tool, we all carry it around in our pocket. So use the tool that's there. And that honestly really helped me. So that little tool is my phone. Yeah. The Bible app and others. There you go. Memos your notes, those voice memos you can leave yourself, those things you have with you.
And you know, I mean, obviously you can talk to Jesus. You can pray at any moment of the day and He's there. You can reach out to people. And I have all sorts of people that I can reach out to. And they'll pray for me when they get the text message. But there are things that I have to do. Like God, can't put the thought in my head for me. I have to, you know, I have to take the word and I have to chew on it and I have to put it in my head and that over and over again, changes the fear and makes it less and less until it's not your first reaction anymore. You know, I think, I think a lot of people think that we as Christians don't have any fear whatsoever.
And I would say that I still struggle a little bit with some fear, but I don't want to have happen. And you probably feel the same way. I don't want that fear to dictate the path that I'm gonna take. So I want to do the right thing, despite the fear that might be there because the enemy, all the enemy wants to do is put something up in front of us.
(Mark) And you know, 90% of the things that we worry about don't even come true. They just don't even happen 90% of them. And so they're like, as my wife says, they're like a paper wall. So we have a wall up in front of us. That's really just paper in the enemy says, "you can't do this.
You can't do that." Then you just kind of poke your finger through the paper and you realize that you can, it's just a matter of acting, doing the right thing, despite the fear. And then like you said, the fear becomes less and less, less and less direction in her own lives. Would you agree with all that?
(Kathy) Yes, I would.
And I would, I would call it what Joyce Meyer calls it, "doing it afraid". That's what she calls it. The feeling is still there. That's what courage is - doing it in the face of fear. It doesn't mean the fear went away. Courage is just, "Nope, I'm gonna do it". Even though I feel afraid I'm gonna walk through these hard things and I will get to the other side, even though I feel afraid, even though I'm not sure how it's gonna turn out, even all of those things, I can still keep going. God is on the other side of it. He's here with me too. So I can keep going. Even though the fear, the feeling wants to tell me I can't.
(Mark) So you know, about 11 years ago now when I had repressed memories and those all came back in a flood of some sexual abuse that had happened to me as a child, by an extended member of the family, nobody in my immediate family. And it went on for quite some time. And when those came back, it, it came back in such a fashion that it felt like it just happened to me.
I didn't know that I had all the memories exact as they were some 40 years later, but, but they were pretty vivid and fear became a big part of my life where I didn't even want to go out the door. And so I too got some counseling and I found that the Christian counselor that I went to gave me a number of tasks that I had to do to be able to push past the fear.
You know what I mean? "So you need to tell your wife what happened". "No, I'm not gonna tell my wife what happened". And then I walk out and I went and told my wife what happened. And, and so it goes on like that. But every time she gave me a task and I said, my initial thought was no, but then I went on and did it, despite the fear, I found that it got easier. And that's what I'm hearing from you is that just the more that we push through these particular things, and I don't know how we can encourage other people in the same fashion, you know, to not let fear guide their lives. The only way I know how to do that is to tell these stories.
(Kathy) Yeah, exactly. And we all have moments where we feel terrified. I love the Bible cause it makes all of these things, very real. Job went through all of the things that he was terrified, whatever happened. And he survived. There are so many that went through so many things. God doesn't tell us to never feel anything.
(Mark) That's right. He does tell us to keep going.
(Kathy) And he does tell us he will be with us while we keep going. So I don't want people to think that they have to deny what they're feeling. The first step you can really take is honestly just tell someone you trust that person. You know, you can tell anything to that. They're not gonna judge you. That's the person you go talk to.
Whether that's a counselor, whether that's your best friend, whoever that is, talk to them. Because what happens is when you tell someone the fear loses its power. Yeah, it does. Because now you have someone to stand with you and now you're not alone. That's the biggest fear everyone has anyway is that, I'm the only one I've been through this.
No one's gonna understand how I feel with all the crazy stuff that I've been through in my life. I'm still surprised at how many people are like, yeah, I've been through that. I know somebody's been through that. Wow. I'm so glad you said something cause now I realize that I'm not alone in it. You know? So we need to stop listening to the lie that we're the only one going through it and that no one can relate to how we're feeling.
So my encouragement would just be tell somebody, even if it's just that one person, like I said, even if it's nobody else call a pastor, they legally can't say anything. A counselor can't either like, if you're scared about it, coming out, talk to one of those kind of people who who know they have to legally even keep your secrets.
(Mark) That's right.
(Kathy) So just to, and the fear will lose its power in your life, but you have to take those steps. And I know it's scary. We've all been through it. It's super scary to say it out loud, but you will feel better if you do.
(Mark) Did you have some people in your life that had gone through some heavy things that gave you encouragement that gave you that support that said, you know, it's, it's just paper. You can push through it. You can do this. Did you have people in your life that did that for you?
(Kathy) Oh, definitely. When I went through the divorce, I had people that came right alongside me who had been through divorces, the counselor I went to at my church at the time she had been divorced and she helped me walk through it and say,
Hey, you know what? There is life on the other side of it. I know this is hard right now. You know, some of the things we're walking through right now with my daughter, it's amazing how many people have come up to me and said, "yep, I'm going through something similar with my so-and-so family member" or whatever. And that kind of thing.
Seeing how much further they along in their journey really helps. And I really think that's why some of these Bible stories are there like Job, like, you know, I mean, Joseph look at all the crazy stuff he went through, you know, he went through prison and Potifer and all that crazy stuff. Right. He kept going and those kind of stories give you hope that your life isn't over just because something bad happens to you.
So yeah, there are definitely people I know licensed counselors really helped me a lot. That has been a great tool to just be able to process my emotions and you know, they can share things in their counseling sessions that they might not share in public, but they'll share with you because it helps you. So yeah, there are definitely people. My husband's been through a lot of stuff too, and he has been amazing to walk by my side and just be with me through all of it and prayer and faith and he's, he's a rock. He's awesome. That's awesome. Yeah. So how did you find your counselor? Okay. Well initially I found my church. I am blessed to be part of a church that actually has licensed counselors on staff.
They, if they can't see us, they actually have a list of people. So a lot of pastors will have a list of counselors. So if you can reach out to a pastor, I know there's plenty of websites, Christian counseling websites, licensed Christian counselors. I know, Focus on the Family has some resources. That's the one that really comes to mind.
I think that they, I know they have counselors that you can call and they have referrals and all sorts of stuff like that. So there are plenty of ways to find someone and yeah, like I said, even if it's just a pastor, you know, call them, they will help you definitely help is available.
(Mark) Yeah. And you know, the counselor that I used, I used her for years. As a matter of fact, it was the therapy sessions were lengthy and took some time to get me past the past. That point of almost no return for me, but I had to do that hard work, but then she ended up moving out of state, but she still does sessions for people via zoom in the state that she's in, she'll do 'em from here. And so I find it that recommendations from people like you, people like me are also big helps for people. So as, as folks are going through some tough stuff, they can just ask people. They can certainly reach out to you. And, and we'll towards the end of the show here.
We'll let people know how they can get ahold of you. And they know how to get ahold of me at gsspodcast.com. And so I'm happy to share any of the stuff that I've been through and some of the people that I've used to help with that. So when you look at the song itself, do you have a favorite verse or a favorite part of the song itself?
(Kathy) Hmm. I love the line. Your word fills my mind gives me life, gives me hope, gives me truth. Even in the dark of night, I rest in you. I love that part of the chorus because I feel like that's so much how I've had to do life. I have to put His word in my mind and that is what keeps me going.
That's what gives me hope. It gives me life even in the dark of night. Oh, I don't know how many moments I've had like that. Even just waking up at 2:00 AM, 3:00 AM, you know, all those thoughts come gracing through your head. And you're like, you know, you pull that one phrase from the Bible that you read that morning, that you remember, it's all it takes. One phrase. I read a lot of the Psalms because David is David and the Psalmist are so honest about their feelings. They don't usually leave it there. They turn to him. And just remembering that in and of itself, even if it's not a specific Bible verse, that concept has helped me a lot.
And so I just love that His word needs to fill my mind, not my own thoughts. And that's what keeps me going. And honestly, that's what gives me rest, real rest.
(Mark) And so there's an active part on, on your end to spend time with the Lord to spend time in the word of God to spend time praying. Not just to treat Him like the genie in the bottle and rub the magic lantern and get three wishes because that's not who He is.
My favorite part of the song and it feels like a Psalm-It's interesting that you mentioned that it feels like a Psalm- is the bridge. So the bridge says Your word never fails. Your peace conquers fear. Impossible is possible. You see my pain, your love overcomes impossible is possible. That feels like something right out of the heart of Psalms.
To me, it feels like a, a modern day Psalm bridge. And I just love it.
(Kathy) Yeah. It reminds me of the verse in, I think it's first John, that talks about how perfect love, casts out fear and that when we cast our anxiety on the Lord, he gives us peace beyond under all understanding that's in Philippians. So those two concepts are very biblical anyway.
And that's what God does. We give him our fear. He gives us love. That's not an even trade. Not by any means, not even close. However, that's how good he is. And that's why you can give it to him. Cause He's only gonna give you good stuff. That's right. Gonna Give you good things.
(Mark) So verse one says,
I think about your goodness, God, how you sustained me, how You've carried me. This is an active remembering of where we were and where we are. Even when I thought I was alone. I know you walked with me though. Worries, swelled and fear thrived. And the end seemed unknown, but You knew the end from the start.
I think this was such a heartfelt writing on mine and your part. I, I absolutely love it. I played this for a couple of other people and they have fallen in love with the song. It's just one of these easy listening, easy to absorb truth-filled, Word-filled songs. Verse two says, I hear You calling my name, giving me strength, even carrying me. I know I'm not alone. I know you walk with me. The worry, cease and fear leaves, but still the end seems unknown. Cause we don't know the end. We have no idea what the end is, but you know, my end from the start, there's a certain level of confidence in who God is and who we are.
I think written in this song. Do you have any other thoughts about that?
(Kathy) I just love the honesty about it. I think too, you know, God is really the one who's been carrying us. Even through the hard stuff we've been walking through lately. Yeah. We have unbelievers watching us go through all this and they're even amazed. I'm like well without Jesus, I couldn't do it. And I don't know how people do it without him. Honestly. He's the reason I can keep going cause I know he knows the end. Even if the end is not what I wanted it to be. That's right. He still knows the end and can help me through even that because eventually the end is,
and eventually the end is good. Life is hard. Even Jesus said, so you're gonna have problems. You're gonna have troubles. However, He is the peace. He is the reason we can keep going. Cause He is always good. He's always good. And if it's not good, just keep going. Cause it will be, it will be.
He promises that.
(Mark) So our chorus says this God is so good. God is so kind only God can do what God can do. Your word fills. My mind gives me life, gives me hope, gives me truth. Even in the dark of night, I rest in you. We, we had the title originally. I rest in you and it could still be that. But the impossible is possible. Seems to be a landing point for at least me on this particular song. And, and I love that only God can do what God can do. Well, Kathy, I cannot thank you enough for joining us today on the show here. I love our friendship. I love you and Paul.
Cindy and I would like to get together with you guys very soon. Once we can work out the details of that, but I hope you guys are continuing to, to move forward and trusting in the Lord and, and you can let us know if you guys need anything. Can you tell our folks how to get ahold of you?
(Kathy) Yes, I am on YouTube at Kathy Tschida.
You can find me there. I also have a website, KathyTschida.com. Also make sure to spell my last name correctly. And I do have a Facebook, a public Facebook page, KathyTschidaMusic. So you can find me on all those places. Eventually I will be releasing some stuff onto places like Spotify and some of the other streaming services. So keep your eyes out for that. On my website, there's a way to contact me. You can also subscribe to emails. I write a blog so you can get all of that stuff to find out about all my music and all of that other things. So love to hear everybody.
(Mark) Okay, well thank you again. And I look forward to our next time together and thanks folks for listening in with us. Hope you have a great week. Peace.
Dark times, breaking points, can’t sleep, can’t breathe….sometimes hope seems impossible. However, I’m living proof that impossible is possible! Today I’ll share a very personal story and a song written out of those emotions.
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Today’s a little usual in that the song we’ll be talking about hasn’t been yet released yet. Find out how you can hear it and other unreleased songs at GGSSPodcast.com, Episode 14. (There might even be a free download in it for you J.)
Today’s featured song is called Impossible is Possible. It’s a collaboration with my friend Kathy Tschida. You’ll get to hear part of Kathy’s God-story in next week’s episode. Make sure you check it out!
LIFE’S AMAZING TIMES
You know, as I look back on my life, I’m amazed how God has worked in our lives.
Right after we got married we moved to Minnesota and attended what is now called Bethany Global University. It was so much more than a school. I’m still inspired to this day by the work being done there and the community of believers that helped us grow up with in many ways. God used it to set a wonderfully firm foundation for me and Cindy as a newly married couple.
When it was time to branch out to other heights that God had for us, I felt confident and ready. When I got my first full-time worship pastor position at Friendship Church in 1997, I was so excited and could see that God had his hand on it.
HIDING IN PLAIN VIEW
But times certainly weren’t always easy. We had to deal with family things like most people have to deal with. Don’t get me wrong, we have an incredible family, but there were some serious struggles for sure. We weren’t exempt just because we’re Christians and especially not as a pastor’s family. Unfortunately I tried to deal with those things in my own strength, and often made things worse. Does that sound familiar?
I don’t know if it was fear of what people would think of us or pride or shame or because I was a pastor and not supposed to have problems, but we hid the majority of our pain and challenges. There were times when we, Cindy and I, felt like failures, very alone and very afraid.
From this vantage point of life, however, I know that was the enemy’s plan for us and not the way God would have had it. I hope you can benefit from hearing about my mistakes and avoid a lot of needless suffering yourself.
It’s still almost overwhelming these many years later, to reflect on the goodness of God to us during that time, how He stayed with us, carried us, sustained us and raised us up from a pretty dark place.
ANOTHER ROUND OF DARKNESS
Once things settled down a bit, another time of darkness came upon me personally. Even as a Christian, fear and identity issues were constant companions most of my life and showed up in my reactions to stress. Things grew increasingly worse over the years until I finally had to get help.
I didn’t recall ever feeling helpless or hopeless before that time. Previously I would have “decided” that I could handle things myself. For me to say “yes” to getting help, was a difficult decision. However, despair had set in and I did not like it. I could not breathe. I could not sleep. I was embarrassed and ashamed that I actually needed help, but I, indeed, needed help.
PRESS IN
I shot up a flare and God answered. After 2 sessions with a counselor, she thought it would be best for me to see a colleague of hers. It was at that point that I knew something was truly going on inside me.
To decide to walk into a counseling office again was huge. I knew that things would probably get worse before they got better. “Pressing in” was my first choice.
It didn’t take long for the new therapist to confirm there was something deep inside and it would take some work to get to the core of it. I have to say, fear almost paralyzed me. It was hard to think about facing the unknown giant that was about to be exposed. But my reactions to stress were not healthy and without exposing truth, there was no way to get better, to function normally again.
In my gut I had an inkling of what it might be, but I did not want it to be that! With each session, more and more memories came to the surface. How could something like this could be hidden in my mind? How? Each week I had to consciously decide to go back for another session and expose more of the hurtful past.
It was about a two-month process to get all these nightmarish memories out to the forefront. There it was, now, the truth in all its ugliness and awfulness, memories as fresh as if they had just happened to me. I won’t go into detail here and it wasn’t from my immediate family, but it was terrible. There were some real moments that I thought not being here would be better than living with this. I felt ashamed even though I had no fault in this as an 8 year old.
I was also MAD! Were the memories better hidden away? The answer is a resounding “NO”. They were not better hidden, but I had to figure out a way to deal with them and move on.
PRESS ON
Recovery was a very lengthy process. Thank God for a therapist who loves Jesus and could help me “press on”. Her kindness and wisdom were absolutely incredible. As I did my difficult but healing homework, we began to see slow progress. Each day I was able to “press on” a little more. My whole family was so supportive and kind and gentle. I am so blessed! My wife was (and is) a rock star! I could not have done this without her!
Fast forward over 10 years now. The things that happened to me in my past do not define me. Yes, they happened, but God controls my future if I allow Him. I chose to press on. I chose to do the very difficult work of recovery. I had a therapist (and some meds that I needed at the time). I joined a Celebrate Recovery group. Celebrate Recovery is an amazing ministry that helps people deal with all sorts of life struggles like sexual abuse, codependency issues, loss of a spouse, drugs and alcohol addictions, pornography addictions and the list goes on. I leaned in to the help that was available and spent time with those further along in the recovery journey.
God saw the flare I shot up, came to me and threw me the life line! Beautiful.
PASS IT ALONG
Most of us in this “category” think you cannot and should not talk about it. My therapist told me, “Mark, I want you to tell your wife about this experience.” I said “No.”
I told her anyway. It was very hard to even utter the words, but I pressed on and told her. My therapist was happy about that.
Then she said, “I want you to tell your kids.” I said, “No.”
I told them anyway. Really hard! But they were so comforting and reassuring. There! I did what she asked me to do. Surely that would be all.
Then she told me, “Mark, I want you to tell your pastor.” I said “No.”
I told him anyway. He was amazing. He cried with me. He walked with me through so much! My therapist was happy.
Then she said, “I want you to give your testimony at Celebrate Recovery." I promptly said, “No!"
I told them anyway as part of my testimony. It was so healing and so freeing. People lined up afterwards and said, “That happened to me also. I didn’t know you could talk about it.” My therapist was very happy about that.
Then she had the gall, the audacity to tell me, “Mark, I want you to give your testimony in church.” In CHURCH? In front of all those people? People that know me? I said to her, “Are you crazy?!” (I really did.) She chuckled and reassured me that this was part of the process. I told her “this process sucks.” I was firm in my NO.
I gave my testimony anyway. I stammered through. I cried on stage. People cried in the congregation. I gave glory to God for walking with me through this. And they clapped. They stood up and clapped! Not for me, but for what God did for me. And guess what happened after? Yup, people lined up and said, “I didn’t know you could talk about that. That happened to me also.” I was able to meet with so many people, to give encouragement and direct them to help and hope.
CAN YOU RELATE?
I’ve had two really really dark times in my life. Yes there’s been some other moments that have been hard, but the dark moments were different. I’m sure even as you are listening to this, you can think about a dark moment or two - when it all seemed hopeless and you felt helpless and alone. And yet here we are today. You might even be going through one of those dark moments right now. I want you to know from experience, there is hope and help and as I said in Episode 12, we don’t have to beg God for that. We need to listen for His voice because He’s talking through His Word even right now. We need to reach out and grab his hand. And think of people in your life that are godly, people that have been through some tough things in their lives, reach out to them and ask for help. Don’t give the enemy any more room in your life. The enemy is a liar and a thief. He will tell you that there is no hope and that you are not worth any help. But friends, the Word of God says otherwise.
PRECIOUS IN HIS SIGHT
In Luke 15:4–7 in the Message version it says this,
“Suppose one of you had 100 sheep and lost one. Wouldn’t you leave the 99 in the wilderness and go after the one lost until you found it? When found, you can be sure you would put it across your shoulders, rejoicing, and when you got home calling your friends and neighbors, saying, celebrate with me! I found my lost sheep! Count on it – there’s more joy in heaven over one sinner‘s rescued life then over 99 good people in no need of rescue.”
In Matthew 11:28–29 in the Message version it says, “Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me-watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t let anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.”
REMEMBERING GOD’S GOODNESS
I know you might be saying, Mark, you don’t know what I’ve been through. And that’s true. But I can only tell you, the things that I’ve been through have been the darkest that I can imagine, to the point of not wanting to be here on earth anymore. Yes, I just said that. I’m not here trying to compare what I went through with what you went through. I’m just saying there is hope.
After hearing this God-story, I’m sure you can feel the emotion behind these lyrics. The first verse of Impossible is Possible says this-
I think about your goodness God
How you sustained me, how you’ve carried me
Even when I thought I was alone, I know you walked with me
Though worries swelled and fear thrived
And the end seemed unknown
But you knew the end from the start
The chorus says:
God is so good, God is so kind
Only God can do what God can do
His word fills my mind gives me life gives me hope gives me truth
Even in the dark of night, I rest in You
This verse is a personal declaration of God‘s goodness in the midst of our dark times, past, present and future.
HIS COMFORT
I saw this video a while back of this young child probably two- or three-years old crying in a crowded place. And her daddy walked up to her and got down on his knees and looked at her and said some very comforting words and she stopped crying and he gave her a hug and she hugged him back and then she was fine. She just needed the comfort and assurance that her daddy was nearby. That was a beautiful thing to see. And we can experience that with our heavenly father. Certainly, we need to spend time in the word of God and praying and praising on a regular basis for this to become a true reality in our life.
The title comes from the bridge of the song which says:
Your word never fails, your peace conquers fear
Impossible is possible
You see my pain, your love overcomes
Impossible is possible
Feels like a Psalm to me :-)
HOW CAN WE PRAISE AT A TIME LIKE THIS?
Is it possible to praise God and to love God in the midst of the darkest moments in our life? It is! But it’s a choice. And when we hang out with people that point us to the word of God, that pray for us, that give us godly counsel, this becomes more of a normal response for us. Who are you hanging out with? Are they giving you godly words of wisdom or are they feeding your anger and fear and hurt?
MUSIC MAKES STUFF STICK
And what are you listening to? I’m not suggesting that all secular music is bad. I’m not saying that at all. But I’ve listened to a fair amount of much of the music of the day and I’m fairly shocked in the hopelessness and sometimes even the evil that is in our music that we listen to.
We’ve said again & again & again that music makes stuff stick. It can make the good, positive, godly things stick or it can make the hopeless and helpless and evil things stick as well. That’s just truth! Practice listening to good, Jesus-pointing music. Practice praising at the beginning of your day. Practice praising in the midst of your storms.
REACH OUT
If you’re going through some serious dark times right now, I encourage you to please reach out to your pastor or a friend who will point you to Jesus, who will pray for you and walk with you. And if you want me to pray for you, you can reach me ON ggsspodcast.com. I would be honored to pray for you in whatever you are going through.
NEXT WEEK
I hope Impossible is Possible will encourage your spirit and inspire fresh hope! Find out how you can hear it and get a free download at GGSSPodcast.com Episode 14.
Also, remember to listen in next week for a God-story shared by Kathy Tschida, the co-writer of Impossible is Possible. I’m really looking forward to it!
Peace
“At the end of your rope” can be a very scary place to be. However, it can also be a place of hope and peace and growth. Let’s talk about that.
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THANKSGIVING TRADITION
It was Thanksgiving time and we were getting ready to have the whole family over at our house. Most of them live in the Twin Cities, 12 total. This is something that we do every year.
I don’t know what food your family likes to serve at your Thanksgiving celebration, but several years ago we decided to do something a little different for ours. We decided to do a Thanksgiving breakfast. So we would lay out a traditional southern breakfast spread for everybody just to give them something a little different rather than having to eat two big turkey dinners in one day. We would have scrambled eggs, sausage, bacon, grits, biscuits and gravy and cantaloupe. It’s something that everybody looks forward to and spending time together is obviously a wonderful thing.
INTERRUPTED
But the virus that shall not be named had other plans for me and Cindy. A week before Thanksgiving, Cindy came down with symptoms and that changed all of our Thanksgiving plans.
Cindy and I had it all figured out ahead of time what we would do if one of us got sick. We were going to mask, glove up and stay in separate parts of the house. Well…that plan only lasted about two minutes.
Cindy got pretty sick pretty quick. There wasn’t a snowball’s chance in South Florida that I was going to leave her in a different part of the house in the condition she was in. So I was in full nurse mode if you will. I was attempting to be careful around her but at the same time to be fully attending to her, setting alarms throughout the night to check for fever and monitor her oxygen levels.
One evening, she was especially in a bad way. She was in her recliner next to mine covered up under six blankets and she was still having mad chills. I had never seen her this sick before. I couldn’t take my eyes off her and 40 years of marriage went through my mind. Forty glorious, sometimes very difficult, years. We’ve been through so much together.
EMOTION EXPRESSED THROUGH SONG
It was right around that time that I started writing some words to the song, Have You Ever Felt. You think of David in the Psalms and how he would hit emotional points in his life and he would write the psalms or songs that ended up being psalms. You could hear his heart through these readings. I kind of felt like that. And I just poured my heart out as I wrote.
The first verse says:
Have you ever felt, the weight of the world on your shoulders
Have you ever felt, the days just seem to get colder
The nighttime seems longer, you don’t feel any stronger
There’s only one way out
This was November and certainly the days were getting colder and the darkness was longer than the daylight at this particular point so there were some natural occurrences happening. But the nights were very long for me as I was trying to sleep but concerned about Cindy and setting alarms and taking temperatures and giving medication and then trying to go back to sleep which was very difficult. But I needed to sleep because I needed to be attentive in the daytime.
END OF MY ROPE
I really was at the end of my rope and crying out to God knowing that He was my only way out. He was Cindy’s way out in this particular moment also. I don’t want to be overly dramatic and say that I thought Cindy was going to die because I didn’t, but I wondered if she needed more than I could give her at this particular point.
We knew of a few people praying for us but decided to go ahead and send a prayer request to our Friendship Church family through the website. Within a few hours of sending that prayer request, Cindy started to improve. Sensing the power of prayer and experiencing the love and kindness of friends lifted us in an amazing way and we were able to press on.
So here’s the chorus:
I know where my help comes from
I know who puts breath in these lungs
I know the one who calls me by name
Who breaks all my chains
Meets me in my pain
I know You, I know You
Psalms 121:1-2 in the New Living Translation says:
“I look up to the mountains— does my help come from there? My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth!”
I truly was crying out to God for help. Even though we started to see some improvement, I had never ever seen my wife this sick before. And there I was, looking at her and continuing to pray and asking the Lord for help.
This might be a rhetorical question for you but have you ever been at the end of your rope and needed God so desperately to answer you and give you help? I once heard it said that “God’s address is at the end of our rope.”
AMAZING PEACE
I’m not going to be able to explain it but I will try to put it into words. This amazing peace came over me as I was looking at my wife and writing these words. Even as I was putting a melody to it and recording that on my phone so I wouldn’t forget, there was an incredible amount of peace that came into the room. And then I started thinking, I think everybody has felt this way before. In some form or fashion, we have all been at this place in our lives. Probably several times as a matter of fact.
It’s good to reflect on these things and to talk about these times so that we can know and experience the goodness of God and be reminded of the goodness of God in our own lives as well as the lives of other believers. Sharing these testimonies is a huge thing and we want to celebrate what God is doing.
RENEWAL
The bridge of this song is fairly simple but it was just a continued part of the whole cry of the song.
Oh God my deliverer
All my trust is in you
I’ll renew my mind
And let your spirit move
Romans 12:2 says in the English Standard Version:
“Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.”
Romans 12:2 ESV
The renewal of my mind! Allowing God to work in my mind. I have to say yes to that. So I did and I do. So I let His spirit move in our situation. It’s so interesting that when you practice this, it gets easier and easier and more natural to renew your mind in whatever the situation is. Philippians 4:8 in the Message version says “It’s wonderful what happens when Christ displaces worry at the center of your life.” That’s renewal for sure!
PRACTICE
Isn’t that something? We have to practice spiritual principles in order to experience more of what God wants for us. So we have to practice spending regular time with God every day, undistracted. We have to practice applying scripture to our lives on a daily basis in all situations. We have to practice walking like Jesus walked and talking like Jesus talked and doing the things that Jesus did and sharing life with other believers. And the more we practice spiritual principles, the more real they become in our lives! What a great motivator to start now, dig deeper now before the next tough thing happens!
NEED PRAYER?
So my question for you today is, have you ever felt the weight of the world on your shoulders? Have you ever felt that there’s no way out? Have you ever felt that you’re at the end of your rope?
I have most wonderful news for you and for me! Our help comes from the Lord! That is incredible news! It’s in Scripture and I want to live this out with you. If you have something specific that I can pray with you about or if you’d to share your end of the rope story with me, please contact me through Ggsspodcast.com.
I pray this song will remind you of God‘s seen and unseen presence in your life and that you realize where your help comes from in a fresh, new way. You can hear the song at GGSSPodcast.com or any of the streaming platforms.
END NOTE
Cindy and I are so grateful to be healthy again! We acknowledge that the situation could’ve turned out differently; that all those prayers might not have been answered exactly like we wanted. We all know praying people who have lost loved ones. We hope this song will help them trust deeply in God‘s love and goodness in the midst of that pain.
Do you ever find yourself begging God for something? Why is that? And how can you and I overcome this mentality?
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A WRONG PICTURE OF GOD
Do you ever find yourself begging God for something? That could be begging for anything really. It could be begging for this new job, or it could be begging for healing for ourselves or somebody that we love, or could be begging for money because we’re broke. It could be anything really.
During a time of incredible stress, I found myself begging God to hear me, begging him to be with me, even begging him to love me. Yes, begging God, the one who created me and everyone else, begging him to take care of me. Begging as if he were some kind of sick being that looked at me and said “Beg me a little bit more. You’re almost there but not quite.”
When I recognized this horribly wrong image of God underneath my prayer, I had to stop and get myself re-aligned with truth! What a difference that made! Out of that experience came the words of the song I wrote called, This Much I Know.
WHAT IS AN ACCURATE PICTURE OF GOD’S HEART TOWARD US?
Jesus came to show us the Father and had quite a bit to say about His heart towards us.
In Matthew 7:7-11 Jesus says,
“Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened.”
Then He says, “or what man is there among you who, when his son asks for a loaf, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, he will not give him a snake, will he? If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give what is good to those who ask Him?”
He also said in John 16:23–24 in the Message version, “This is what I want you to do. Ask the Father for whatever it is in keeping with the things I’ve revealed to you. Ask in my name, according to my will, and He’ll most certainly give it to you. Your joy will be a river overflowing its banks.“ Now that’s an amazing promise!
Yes, God is the Most High and is to be revered. At the same time, He’s our loving, heavenly Father who delights in us, loves us enough to correct us and who welcomes us to be at home with Him. Think about the kids in your neighborhood. If they came barging through your front door, opened your fridge, made some sandwiches then sat down on the couch in your den, that would be weird, right!
However, your own kids are most welcome to do just that! Why? Because they are your kids. There’s a different relationship there. They are at home with you, and you are at home with them. As redeemed children of God, that’s like it is with us and the Father. Yes, we always need to show Him respect and honor Him but also know that He wants us to be at home with Him and He with us.
NOT A GENIE IN THE BOTTLE
This relationship is not to be confused with the genie in the bottle mentality. You rub the lantern until the genie pops out and then the genie gives you three wishes. And I think sometimes I have been guilty of the genie mentality. But remember, the verse in John 16 says, “Ask in My name, according to My will.”
HOW DO WE KNOW WHAT TO ASK?
So how do we know what His will is? I think to know that, we must spend time with Him, learn more about Him through his word. What do you think that looks like? I think that might look like a dedicated time of the day to spend some time praising, reading the word of God and praying. Dedicated. Something specific and set aside. Often times, we wake up in the morning and we’re already running late, and we have to hit the shower and perhaps get the kids up and get them fed and off to school And then we have to hit the traffic and try to reach the office or wherever it is that you’re working usually, barely on time. You get through the day, and you head home exhausted, and you might have a wife or a husband and children to spend time with and get the trash out and get the grass cut with the driveway cleared or go to this appointment or that appointment. Finally, you lay your head down around whatever time you normally go to bed, and you think “oh I haven’t spent any time with God. I think I’ll pray right now” and you fall asleep. Or you open up your Bible and you fall asleep. Does that sound familiar? That’s certainly the way I used to do it. I’ve talked to lots of people over the years and they have great intentions with no execution.
FIRST FRUITS
If we want to know more of what God wants for our lives and if we want to live more in line with what God wants for us on a daily basis, we have to spend time with him on a daily basis. First fruits are usually the best. Let me rephrase that, first fruits are the best. The phrase first fruits is mentioned numerous times in the Bible. God told the Israelites to give Him the first of their crops and the first-born of their animals. It was an act of obedience, trust (that more fruit would come) and honor. The first fruits of your day are the best. So if you set aside 15 minutes first thing in the morning and start with that. A few minutes focused on praising God, reading the word of God and a few minutes praying and then you can expand on that time as that becomes more normal for you.
Some Things have to happen in order for that to happen. You might need to get in bed earlier and then you’ll have to get up earlier. But we are followers of Christ. We’re not followers of Christ just with our lips but with our actions. So first fruits are really, really huge, those first few minutes of the day with the one who gives you life in breath and hope. It starts there.
SOMETIMES SPIRITUAL WARFARE
As we are praying and asking God for this or for that, according to His will (and that’s huge), sometimes we can get a quick answer and He says, “here you go, there’s your answer.” But sometimes there are spiritual battles that need to happen and that’s where a lot of people think that begging is what we should do. But remember God is not some sick being up there laughing at you or me and relishing in the fact that we are begging. Sometimes the spiritual battles that take place are intense! So for instance, if we are praying for someone’s salvation, what we’re really praying for is an awakening within that person to finally realize that they need a Savior. But they have to make that decision. There is the spiritual battle because the enemy does not want that person joining forces with the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords. So I’m praying for ways that that person can bump into Jesus to a connection with another Jesus follower. That’s how I came to the Lord. Think about how you came to know the Lord. But also we have to realize that these people have to make their own choice. So the spiritual battle ensues. That’s not begging, that’s praying through! That’s recognizing that there’s a battle going on.
There’s an amazing book that was written many years ago called, Piercing the Darkness AND another one called, This Present Darkness. I highly recommend both of those. I can’t remember which one came first but they’re sequels and they are incredible and give you a real glimpse of the spiritual battle. It’s a fictitious story based on spiritual principles that I think will open your eyes like it did mine. The spiritual battle is really really amazing and that’s where we’re praying and perhaps fasting, but not begging. We need to keep this in mind.
SOMETIMES NO
We’re all adults here, correct? You may or may not have kids or grandkids. But my grandkids will ask me something and then they will start begging me for an answer and then the negotiation starts of course. But sometimes, the answer is no. My grandkids call me Pops. I love that! They might ask me if they can ride their bikes in the street. Unless I’m out there watching them, the answer is “no”. That’s a loving answer. The word “no” is actually very beautiful. Sometimes it’s for our own good and we need to accept that. But even as adults, it’s hard to accept. You know what I’m talking about. I’m not pointing fingers at anybody because I find myself doing the same thing and not liking the answer. How many times has the answer been, “no”, and you start begging? More times for me than I’d like to actually admit.
MATURE PRAYER
I can’t stress enough how important it is to be connected on a regular daily, set-aside basis. This helps us mature and then we find ourselves praying mature prayers in faith and knowledge that He hears us.
Did you catch that? Mature prayers in faith. When we are tuned in to the source of life, Jesus, it changes a lot of things in us and it changes our selfish desires or at least, we can keep them in check.
The first verse says,
“This much I know, I don’t have to beg you to talk to me
This much I know, I don’t have to beg you to walk with me
This much I know I don’t have to beg you again and again to lead me Lord
I just need to listen when you speak to me”
That takes us right back to spending time with the King of Kings and Lord of Lords on a regular, daily basis. When we’re praising, reading the word and praying, we can hear from God.
The second verse says
“This much I know, I don’t have to beg you to teach me
Give me patience to wait for you as you answer me
This much I know, I don’t have to beg you again and again to show your love
Just let me look through your eyes “
I just want to see through the eyes of Jesus, how He loves me and how He loves you. We have to develop our spiritual eyes and ears. That’s my motivation each day to spend time with Him so that I can see like He sees. Does that make sense?
PRAISE
The bridge of this song is more of just a praise break. I just wanted to honor God and praise Him right in the middle of this song. It says this,
“Such a gift You’ve given to me
By Your grace I am set free
I’m amazed, I stand in awe
Of the great Creator, the most high God “
A praise break! That’s kind of a cool thing when you think about it. Take a praise break right in the middle of your day just like I did right in the middle of this song. Praise is often considered optional but really, it’s powerful; whether it’s acknowledging God’s awesomeness in prayer or singing a song before the Lord or letting a praise song move your heart in love for the Father, praise is extremely helpful to see and hear God. Psalm 22:3 says that God “inhabits the praises of His people”. Psalms 100:4 says “Enter His gates with thanksgiving and into His courts with praise”.
It’s quite a praise-worthy moment when we realize (or remind ourselves again) that we don’t have to beg God for anything! He is our loving Father who delights in giving us good gifts; who desires to be with us and bless us. We just need to be in touch and in tune with Him and we do that by spending time with Him every day.
I had a ton of fun not only writing this song but producing it. There are some really cool production elements that I think add to the sparkle and meaning. You can hear it on Spotify, Apple, YouTube and other streaming platforms or at GGSSPodcast.com Episode 12. And would you do me a favor, if this podcast episode or the song is helpful to you, would you share them with someone? You can share them both from the Episode 12 webpage.
Peace
Have you ever been baited into an argument and you end up saying the wrong thing? Or perhaps you were the “baiter” saying the right thing but in the wrong way? Me too! Today I’ll share some tips I’ve learned in this area and I invite you to share your best tips with me!
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Whether it’s saying something destructive in the heat of an argument or saying the right thing but in the wrong way, we have to recognize “the bait”. We also need a plan to use God’s power to speak words that are fruit rather than poison like Proverbs 18:21 says so well: “Words kill, words give life; they’re either poison or fruit – you choose.” Our choice of words is so important for the sake of others but also for our own sake and for the sake of the Kingdom.
I’ve been in Christian ministry full-time and part-time for over 40 years and I have seen the consequences of taking the bait in my life and others again and again and again. It happens to everybody. We get caught up making sure that people know exactly where we stand rather than being patient and helping them want to listen to us because we show them love, respect and kindness.
It’s on the phone or face-to-face or even worse, on social media! The first tip is BE WISE ON SOCIAL MEDIA!!!!! It’s really tough to win an argument on there. Basically what we have are very loud voices screaming their opinions and hurling insults at others based on their opinions. It’s sad, it happens in the Christian world as well. I’m not sure how this benefits the kingdom. I think we can say with confidence that, really, it doesn’t.
One particular friend of mine has been the inspiration for a few of my songs. He’s part of the music industry and lives in Nashville. He was experiencing scathing fallout from “taking the bait” on social media. The impact on him personally, emotionally and professionally was significant as well as needless. He wanted to get my feedback on his next steps.
I pondered it for a little bit because deep down, I believed his opinion was valid, even correct and helpful, but I was trying to think of the possible consequences of further “conversation” aka argument. And as I started thinking about it a little bit more, it really didn’t have a lot of value because I think ultimately nobody wanted their mind changed. They only wanted the other person’s mind changed. In other words, “my way is the right way and your way is the wrong way, and that’s all there is to it.” As we discussed this a bit further, the words “don’t take the bait!” came out of my mouth,”. The power of these words stuck in my mind. And yes, a song was born.
Around that same time, conversations were taking place with another friend on the verge of losing their marriage because of a war of words that got out of hand. Because their conversation made its way to friends on social media, a number of their friendships were destroyed as well.
I think more times than not we are baited into an argument. Sometimes we are the baiter! Maybe we even baited someone else into an argument feeling that it was justified or righteous even. We’ve all seen families divided, really divided. Divided in such a way that a son or a daughter won’t even speak to their parents or the parents won’t speak to their children because they refused (or forgot) to think!; to think through their choice of words and the possible outcomes.
That’s another basic but often overlooked tip, THINK it through; what will the benefit or consequences be of the words I choose to speak. Do I really want THAT outcome?
Why is this important? Because the Bible says we will be held accountable for the words we speak. Even if we’re willing to apologize later for our poor reactions, is that really how we want to represent? Why not choose to think and respond rather than unthinkingly react. Our brains are super-computers. We can think through the scenarios and pretty well predict how things are going to turn out. Isn’t it better to prevent the damage in the first place?
The next tip is how to think it through. Here it is…Pause. Take a breathe before you respond. I recently saw a clip on Facebook about reacting vs responding from a neuroscience perspective. Evidently when you get triggered and take the bait, an electrical current goes from your brain down your spine and that’s why you react so quickly, outside of your brain space. You can stop that current by pressing pause, by taking a breath. The electrical current goes back up to your brain and now you can use your brain to think through how you want to respond.
If we stop and think about it, agreeing to disagree is a much better conclusion than the usual consequences of taking the bait, right? Like most things that go against our selfish, human nature, it’s very difficult to do, but remember God is just waiting to help us if we come to Him for help in this area. Agreeing to disagree doesn’t necessarily change our stance nor our prayers nor our action steps. It does offer more ability to live well together.
A fabulous example of this is Ronald Reagan and Speaker of the House Tip O’Neill who were on the opposite sides of the political fence. They found ways to work together which was quite remarkable but, more than anything, these guys were real life friends even though they did not agree politically for the most part. After Ronald Reagan was shot in an assassination attempt, Tip O’Neill was one of the first ones that Ronald Reagan allowed in to see him. So how can this be? How can a president of the republican party and the speaker of the house from the democratic party learn to work together for solutions and be real life friends? Wouldn’t that be awesome if there was more of this willingness today?
Of course, we’ve seen the consequences of taking the bait not only at the highest levels of government but, unfortunately, we even see it in churches. That’s a really sad place for that to happen. It can be fixed but it will take humility, repentance, intentional thought, and lots of practice.
That’s the next tip: PRACTICE! Being respectful while in disagreement is quite an art! It’s something that we all have to practice. Isn’t that the case with most things?
Most people know that I love the game of golf. If I want to get better at the game of golf, I have to practice the game of golf and practice doing things the correct way. Getting out and making 100 swings at the driving range won’t help me a bit if it’s 100 swings that are wrong. I have to practice doing things the right way. Think of whatever it is that you really enjoy doing and you want to get better at, it takes practice it takes repetition.
So why do we give ourselves a pass when it comes to our words and not only our words but the way we say those words? I mentioned earlier that we can say the right thing in the wrong way. Think about what I just said there. Think about tone and facial expressions and what’s really behind those expressions. I think if we look deeper, we’ll see that pride plays a big part. And the opposite of pride is humility. We have to practice humility.
No I’m not talking about rolling over and just agreeing with somebody to keep the peace. But I do know that truth spoken in love has a much better chance of winning than truth delivered in a hateful or arrogant or prideful way. We need to practice peaceful disagreeing conversations. Ultimately, what we have to show is love for each other even when we don’t agree. We should practice praying for each other and continually lifting each other up before the Lord. And then we should always ask the Lord what is the right thing to say or do or even believe?
Another tip is to be wise about your news consumption. I know many many people that are news junkies and I’ve got some opinions about that but I won’t share here :-) Here’s a challenge for you and me- let’s run the news that we listen to through the filter of Philippians 4:8-9. “You’ll do best by filling your minds and meditating on things true, nobel, reputable, authentic, compelling, gracious-the best, not the worst; the beautiful, not the ugly; things to praise, not things to curse”.
What are our minds wired for? Can we change our wiring through intentional, daily practice? Can we find the good in a Monday rather than the typical negative talk of the beginning of the work week? When our minds are thinking negatively on a consistent basis, it’s easier to get angry at things, opinions, and people around us. But when we practice thinking positive, godly thoughts and spend more time praying rather than complaining, I believe we can be changed from the inside out.
When I’m talking to someone whose opinion is different than mine, I find that intentionally caring for them and thinking the best of them changes the conversation in an amazing way!
The bridge of the song, Don’t Take the Bait, says this:
I know it’s hard to do the right thing,
to turn it all over to you
But help us Lord even as we sing
To do what we say we will do
So we recognize that this life is difficult. We start our day in prayer and might tell the Lord that we turn our lives over to Christ, all of our lives, including our tongue. And then we ask for help to do the very thing we just said we would do!
So who do you represent? Who do I represent? I have the Mark Alewine Music logo tattooed on my right arm. It’s 2 eighth notes tied together with a cross right in the middle. I think it’s pretty apparent who I say I represent by the tattoo on my arm but do the words that come out of my mouth and the way they come out of my mouth reflect that?
Back when I was younger in Athens Georgia, I was driving downtown and there was a guy in front of me that had a “honk if you love Jesus” bumper sticker on his car. We were at a red light so I honked. He rolled his window down and flipped me off. Now that sounds kind of funny but at the same time it’s not funny. Do we represent who we say we represent?
Friends, I used to be one of the biggest hot heads that you can imagine. It was my identity and I owned it proudly. I was quick to give my opinion and bait others into an arguments or get baited into an argument, making sure that everybody knew exactly where I stood. It was often invigorating, like an athletic competition. And I didn’t mind walking off in a huff just to put an exclamation point on the conversation. I had to make sure they knew exactly how I felt about it and maybe they would go home, think about it and change their minds. That was the arrogant, prideful Mark. Every now and then, that old man wants to peak up his head and I have to put him in place.
Now, if someone asks me my opinion about a particular subject, I will give my informed opinion of that subject (not on social media however!). But I no longer wish to belittle that person‘s beliefs.
The chorus of the song says:
Keep your eyes on the prize
And your heart turn to the sky
The son of God is always ready
We need to make the choice
And be wise of the enemy’s ploys
And we will walk sure and steady
You can listen to Don’t Take the Bait on the streaming platforms or at GGSSPodcast.com Episode 10. You can also find the Facebook clip, a t-shirt and some other resources there.
Remember, don’t take the bait! And here’s some tips to do that:
- Be wise on social media
- Think before you speak
- Take a breath/pause
- Practice
I’d love to hear your best tips in in this area? You can contact me on GGSSPodcast.com
May God bless all of our steps and our lips and our actions as we go out into this world to represent Christ and the change that he’s made in our lives.
Peace
What ideas or dreams has God put in your heart to reflect His love and bring others into the Kingdom? Are you ready to give it everything you got? A dose of inspiration is coming your way.
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Showers for Homeless
Learn about Acts of Friendship
Cindy and I were in Jacksonville Florida for medical reasons. While there, we had hopes of connecting with some songwriters who live in that area. Our plan did not work out BUT God set up some other meetings for us that had more impact than we could imagine.
I’d had a song bouncing around in my head, but it just wasn’t coming together. I was feeling dry, wondering if inspiration had gone. I’d been discussing this with God.
Sunday rolled around and off we went to a nearby church we found online called The Well. We discovered that the church had a wonderful love for homeless people and there were quite a few who attended worship there. One of the unique ways the church served the homeless was driving a semi-trailer retrofitted with showers, dressing rooms and fresh clothes to different areas of the city. Check the show notes to learn more.
Worshiping along with homeless people was a remarkable and wonderful experience. Sharing communion and incredible conversation with them was humbling. These are regular people who have very little, but the ones we met had joy and a church family they called their own.
The next morning, God answered my prayer (while I was blow drying my hair) and the song morphed and “snapped” into place. Everything I Got! was inspired by the way that Pastor Tone Benedict and The Well Church in Jacksonville Florida loved those who were homeless. You can hear it on the streaming platforms or at GGSSPodcast.com
Next, I’d like to introduce to someone else who practices what the song “Everything I Got” is all about. He’ll have some practical tips for you to help pursue those dreams and ideas God planted in your heart.
I have a friend of mine, Dave Taylor, in the studio today. He's got a ministry called Acts of Friendship. I'm going to let Dave tell us a little bit more about that in just a second, but I want you just to know that Dave is somebody that I've known for several years. We're brothers in Christ. We got connected at church. It was primarily on Wednesday nights where we really got connected I think, right Dave?
(Dave) Yes
(Mark) And so, but I'm going to let Dave, in light of this song, Everything I Got, I'm going to let Dave tell you a little bit about his story here, coming up. So, Dave, I wanted to have you on the show today because you embody what the song, Everything I Got talks about.
So why don't you tell us what you do and how it all got started?
(Dave) Well, first off, thanks for having me, Mark, and man, I love your heart for Jesus and others. I love the song, Everything I Got. I listened to it quite a few times and it just blows me away. Very thankful that God put you into my life six years ago. Praise Him for that.
Since being saved at the age of 40, 19 years ago, I have been embracing God doing a mighty work in and through me. I love Christ with all my heart, all my mind, all my soul and all my strength and I love others. So how I got going with this ministry called Acts of Friendship, I directed a ministry at Friendship Church where we met the needs of people and when we met the needs of people, we shared the gospel and encouraged discipleship. A few people along the way told me, Dave, this is way bigger than what you're doing. Everybody needs to hear about this.
So after lots of prayer and a year and a half of setting up the ministry, we launched the ministry Acts or Friendship six weeks ago. Our mission statement for the ministry is, “We are dedicated to inspiring and equipping followers of Jesus Christ to live a lifestyle of disciples who make more disciples.” The three things that we're really passionate about are 1) serving others from first fruits, 2) sharing the gospel and making disciples, 3) discipleship and multiplying. And I want to just touch on those three for a second.
We live very busy lives and we have the intention to serve others, but if we don't serve from first fruits, we may never serve anybody else. So that's serving others.
Then sharing the gospel, making disciples - we are all called to share the awesome news about Jesus, but something could be holding us back like fear, but we need to trust in the Holy Spirit.
Jesus died and then appeared to his disciples. They were all hanging out going, what are we going to do now? When Jesus appears to them and they are blown away. They're probably ready to go rock out again and hit it and do ministry again. But what does Jesus say to them in Acts 1:4? He says, “wait till I send you the Helper, the Holy Spirit”; Acts 1:8 ”when the Holy Spirit comes on you, you'll tell people about me everywhere.” Acts 2:4 at Pentecost the Holy Spirit comes on disciples. They preach to the multitude and 3000 come to Christ. And I love the end of Acts, more people come to Christ each day.
Not equipped is another reason people will hold back from engaging. We have the Holy Spirit and the word of God. So we are equipped to share the best news we know. Let's go. Right?
(Mark) Yeah right.
(Dave) And then discipleship, multiply. I want to share a verse, 2 Timothy 2:2, “And what you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses and trust to faithful men who will be able to teach others.” We all need discipleship.
So my challenge is…I got three questions. When was the last time you served someone? When was the last time you shared the gospel with someone? Are you being disciples or are you discipling someone? Think about those three questions.
Acts of Friendship has some really cool platforms and tools. Do we love others? And do we use the tools and engage others in our everyday life? So we can have these cool tools, but if we're not using them, we're not reaching people. So let's get out there and reach people.
Main thing is to keep Christ at our center of our lives, not the ministry, but Christ is the center and the ministry happens from that. And then I love this verse, Hebrews 12:2, “keep our eyes on Jesus. He's the author and perfecter of our faith.” As we go through one step at a time, one day at a time, walking out His call.
(Mark) That's awesome. I really, really appreciate you sharing that. So I'm sure over the years you've met some obstacles and some challenges. What was the biggest challenge? Not to bring this down, but I think it would be encouraging for people to realize that anything that when we do something for the kingdom sake, the enemy realizes this and he's going to throw things in our way and try to discourage us and try to keep us from accomplishing the goal that we believe God has for us. So what was some of the biggest challenges that you had to overcome?
(Dave) Yeah, for sure. A couple things that come to my mind, church culture can be very inward and compartmentalized. What I mean by that is we tend to serve, share the gospel and disciple in the church building and that is awesome. I love it, but we need to be living a lifestyle each day, no matter where we are with using the time, talent and treasure that comes from God. So we're pushing against culture a little bit. We need to shift that culture to in the church building AND in our everyday lifestyle.
And then patience and trusting and God's plan timing. Proverbs 16:9 says “the heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps.” It took one and a half years to put this ministry together. The whole way God was doing a mighty work in and through us. We embraced that and we stayed within His timing on this thing. As much as we wanted to launch it in six months, it took a year and a half and His timing is perfect.
(Mark) Love it. So what do you love most about what you're doing?
(Dave) For me? Just really, it's being obedient to God's call on my life. Since I got saved,
I want to walk out His call. I'm a new person in Christ, and He has a plan for us.
The other thing I love about it is meeting people where they are, loving them well and encouraging them to take the next step with their relationship with Jesus. It blows me away to watch somebody come to Christ and then watch them grow in Christ and then watch them actually go share with others. It's amazing how God does that work in each of us.
I lived life for the 40 years without Jesus as my Lord and Savior. No peace, no joy, no hope. Tried to fill it with worldly things. None of it filled it. I did not serve others. I put myself first in everything. After God saved me, I've been filled with peace, joy, and hope. No emptiness. I know for today, God's in control and I know where I'm going and I put others before myself.
(Mark) That's fantastic. So, what do you think has been most helpful for you in making Acts of Friendship a reality?
(Dave) First and foremost, prayer, always. Always be praying. Keeping Christ at the center of my life each day is huge.
God gave me a verse when He saved me 19 years ago, Ephesians 2:10, “for we are God's masterpiece” and other versions say “workmanship. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so that we can do the good things He planned for us long ago.” So we are His masterpiece, His workmanship. He gives us our identity, not this world, not myself and not other people. God had a plan for us before we were born. Discern the plan and run with it. God's will is the way. His will is going to happen. Trusting in this each day can be tricky. So just trusting in the Lord that He's gonna provide whatever's needed to run the race.
Trusting in the Holy Spirit each day that's dwelling in us, daily discernment in the Lord each step of the way. God may close one door, but He'll open another. Be alert to that. A closed door means probably don't go through it. An open door could mean go through it.
Patience is a big one for me especially. I pray for that every day, to have patience in God's timing. God puts people in our lives like my partner, pastor Brent, and a friend of mine, Ryan; we are called to do ministry together. Each of us are gifted differently. Romans 12:5 says, “so we, though many, are one body in Christ and individually members, one of another”. We need each other.
(Mark) So I'm going to go off script just for a second here from some of the questions that we were talking about here and just say, tell me a little bit more about that patience thing that you were mentioning there.
(Dave) Yeah. I'm definitely a task-driven doer and I'm pedal to the model. When I first got saved, somebody called me a Coke-bottle-Christian cause I was exploding all over the place. So really having patience in God's timing knowing, His timing is perfect. So being patient with Him preparing the hearts of the people that you engage with and preparing you for what you need to do the work that He's called you to.
(Mark) So that's kind of a daily prayer because you don't really know who's coming in front of you or who you're going to come in front of. Cindy and I have people we pray for. We say, “Lord, we're looking for somebody to “bump” into them so they can “bump into Jesus.” We have no idea who we're going to come in contact with. Sometimes it's just kind of praying for the day, unknown people that you're going to bump into and be able to say Jesus to and maybe be able to share the gospel with them.
(Dave) Oh, I love that. Yeah. Being in real time and having an open mind, open heart and not being in a big rush to engage these people that you come across in life. It's not by accident that we're seeing these people. So how can we best meet them where they are at, love them well and it's really pointing them to that next step for them wherever they're at, towards their relationship with Jesus?
(Mark) Love it. So what advice would you give somebody that has a big idea that would impact their world, so wherever they’re at or the world, but isn't sure where to start or if they have what it takes?
(Dave) The starting place is always prayer and continue with prayer every day. Don't skip that. And there's a time for prayer and there's a time for action, but start with prayer, continue with prayer. And then when God gives you the green light, hit it and put it to action.
The other thing is, share your idea with some others that you trust and get their feedback, get their input. I get feedback from my good friends, from my wife, from my kids. I'll bounce stuff off of them. Getting that feedback is really big.
A lot of time when God calls us to do something, I'm going to tell you, it's way bigger than you could ever imagine, way bigger than you think you can handle, but nothing is too big for our awesome God. So trusting in Him that He's gonna provide, taking those steps of faith, that's big. You'll need to walk in faith each day with God's timing.
When you have clear discernment on what to do, do not hesitate. I encourage you to run, hammer it down. When you get clear direction, don't miss it. Sometimes it's full throttle. Sometimes it's one step at a time. You got a lamp in your hand and you can't see the next step until you take that one step of faith. That's slower moving, but take those steps of faith and it'll blow you away.
Be specific on what God is calling you to do. He's not calling you to save everybody. He's not calling you to engage everybody. What specifically is He calling you to do? We're all gifted differently. And we all have a calling. The calling in the Ephesians 2:10 verse was “before we were born”. So what is that calling for you? Identify that and then really dive into it. And it'll probably match up with passions that you have too. Check your passions. Those passions aren't by accident. They've been given by God.
Stay true to the call even when running into challenges. You will run into challenges. Stay true to it. Just keep forging forward. Again, God's timing. He may be pulling you back with it, slowing you down a little bit. Or He may be saying, pick up the pace a little bit on this. Just follow him.
You have what it takes. You have the Holy Spirit. We are the vessels that God works through. So we're the vessel; God's doing the work. So you're just the willing vessel. And that's what He wants from us. He doesn't have to use us, but He chooses to use us.
(Mark) That's right.
(Dave) That blows my socks off. And it just blows me away.
Another thing, if you feel led, you can contact Acts of Friendship. We'll pray with you with this new venture that God might be calling you on. And we'll even walk with you the best we can. We're a 501-C3, faith-based nonprofit. We're all set up, we’re insured. We did all that stuff. We know the ins and outs of putting all that together so we can walk with you in that.
(Mark) So if they want to get more involved with you, what's the best way for them to get involved with Acts of Friendship National?
(Dave) Yeah, for sure. Probably our website and our web address is AOFministries.com. Go there, check it out and you can contact us through the website.
We would love to connect with you and do what we call an inspirational brainstorm meeting. What these are…no one knows it all, but together we come together, we can bounce stuff off each other and we learn from you and you learn from us. Let's engage and let's get the church moving, right? Let's live a lifestyle of serving others from first fruits, sharing the gospel, making disciples and discipleship, multiplying all to God's glory.
(Mark) So you and I are the church. When you say get the church going, we're talking about people, we're talking about God's people, people that have given their lives to the Lord. When we say, get the church going, that's what we're doing.
I couldn't say that any more clear than you just said it, Dave. That's really awesome. Acts of Friendship, Dave Taylor, AOFministries.com. So you can check him out right there and find out a little bit more about this.
Thanks again, Dave. I really appreciate you showing up today, driving all the way over here to the studio and for us being able to chat together and share this with others. Thanks, man.
(Dave) Yeah. Thanks Mark. Love you guys. I have a saying that's on my voicemail, my phone, it's “be cool in Christ”. So stay cool in Christ each day. Somebody asked me once, “what does it mean to be cool in Christ?” I said, “the best way I can say it is, love Christ with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength and love others.” I said, “if you roll that, you're being cool in Christ, right?”
(Mark) So I'm sure if you could see Dave right now, he's got this smile, that lights up a room. And so I told him whenever I talk to him on the phone and I can't see him, I can hear his smile. And I'm sure you guys can hear his smile too. Praise the Lord. So glad you're here. Thanks again, Dave.
(Dave) Yeah. Thanks Pastor Mark.
Who wants to work for the devil? I recently discovered I was helping him more than I realized. Today’s podcast is about a song that came out of that discovery as well as some helpful tips for winning our battles.
LISTEN TO THE FEATURED SONG>>>
EPISODE #9 WEBPAGE>>>
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CONTACT MARK>>>
“I’m so stupid!”, “What a dummy!”, “Here I go again!”, “I’m an idiot!” Any of this sound familiar? We give ourselves permission to berate ourselves with our horrible words. Somehow, we feel like that’s OK when we’re talking about ourselves, but we would never use that kind of language with our spouse or our children or our friends. Or at least we shouldn’t. So why do you think that is? Why do we give ourselves permission to beat ourselves up? Why is that OK?
My wife Cindy and I have an agreement. When we hear the other one beating themselves up with words, we intervene, and we will say things like “Don’t you talk to my wife like that” or “Don’t you talk to my husband like that”. It’s just a reminder to us to give ourselves some grace, just like we would and should with others.
A while back, Cindy and I sat on the back porch having coffee together and talking. We got on the topic of self-talk and how easy it is to beat ourselves up. The conversation later found its way into the studio into a song titled, “The Good Fight”.
Verse one of the song says,
What do I hear myself saying and why do I say it so much
So many times I catch myself believing that lie
How long has this been going on
Dare I disagree
It keeps coming back even if I try
But here’s what I will believe
Welcome to “the good fight”. That doesn’t sound very “good”, does it? Our enemy, the devil, likes to attack us using lies, accusations, and condemnation. These assaults can cripple us or even take us out of the fight. If we don’t recognize these tactics, we can fall into agreement with them and beat our own selves up. The devil must just sit back and laugh at us when we do. In essence we are doing HIS destructive work in our lives.
Do you know what I’m talking about? I sure understand because I have been so guilty of this, but I am changing. Cindy helps me catch myself and that’s been huge! The good news, though, is we can be very effective in winning these battles is we are equipped and aware. The fight is worthwhile and good, and victory is sweet!
The Bible says if we have received Jesus as our Savior that we are children of God! I wonder if we know how powerful that really is. You and I belong to Jesus. We are not trash or stupid or dumb, nor are we idiots.
Life is a daily battle. It’s a battle for our mind and our hearts and our beliefs. If you have kids living in your home, the battle is even greater today than it’s ever been. So what are we teaching each other, our children, our family, our friends by the language that we use on ourselves?
I think the first thing we must do is understand what God says about all this. The Bible helps us understand the history of the battle, who our enemy is and God’s overwhelming provision for us. It assures us that the war is not going to end well for Satan and his followers. Satan knows it as well. He’s not stupid by any means. So, he tries to drag us down to his level. He knows he can’t drag you and me to hell if we are children of God, but he can take us out of any fight if we give him a chance.
Paul wrote in Ephesians 1:3, “God has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in heavenly places with Christ”. Jesus has given us His authority and the keys of the Kingdom of God. The devil knows what we are capable of; he knows what God can do in us and through us. So that’s why he’s 100% committed to making sure that we never reach that potential.
Because I love Jesus, I look for ways to say the name “Jesus” in a conversation, especially with strangers. I’ll give you some examples. Most people who know me know that I love the game of golf. I usually play golf very early in the morning around 6 so I can have the whole day in front of me to get things done. Usually I get paired up with people I don’t know.
It’s pretty common for guys to start swearing when they hit a bad shot and getting mad at themselves. This might go on for eight or nine holes, but ultimately the conversation comes around to, “So what do you do for a living, Mark?” It used to be very awkward for me as a pastor because when I would say, “I’m a pastor” then suddenly the language would clean up perfectly. “Darn it!”. “Shoot!”. Now that’s the words coming out of their mouth because suddenly they are around a pastor. Eventually I started responding, “I’ll tell you what, you just be who you are and I will be who I am.”
Now I take a little a different approach. I’m looking for an opportunity to say “Jesus”. You never know what can happen when we say that name that we love so much. So I get to the point early and I ask the question. I’ll even do it on the first hole as we’re walking down the fairway off the T-Box, “So Bob, what do you do for a living?”. He’ll tell me and then he will ask me the same and this is my response, “I’m a Jesus-loving singer, songwriter and podcaster.” I get the awkward stuff out of the way to begin with. I love doing this and have opportunities every day. They are right in front of me. I look for them and I take advantage of them. I have a business card that I can hand out, of course, and have had some people go check out the music and email me a comment about it. Some even call me up asking to play golf with them again. That’s been pretty amazing actually. You just never know.
But here’s the thing. If I’m constantly beating myself up with negative language, how can I be effective on the golf course talking to people that may not be believers? That’s the fight I’m talking about. The enemy knows that this is not going to end well for him and so what he’s trying to do is take as many people with him as he can. When he can take me out of the fight, that’s just one more person perhaps that he gets to take with him. See how that works?
It’s rare that I meet a stranger. I enjoy talking with people as I’m filling up the gas tank or if I’m in line at the grocery store or at Ace Hardware or wherever. I like to strike up a conversation and then look for that opportunity to say “Jesus”.
Now I have a little advantage and I’m not necessarily saying everybody should do this, but I have the Mark Alewine Music logo tattooed on my right arm. It’s 2 eighth notes tied together with a cross in the middle. It’s a decent size that gets noticed and is a great conversation starter! That’s one of the main reasons I got it and it really works. But it also keeps me on my toes. Who do I want to reflect in my reactions to people in general? Do I look and sound like anybody else in the world or do I look and sound like and reflect the one who saved me?
“My name is Mark and I am a Jesus-loving singer, songwriter and podcaster.” You can think of a tagline like that too. “My name is Judy and I am a Jesus-loving computer software engineer.” “My name is Dwight and I am a Jesus-loving retired bus driver.” You don’t have to mention the place that you work or anything like that.
“Jesus loving!” That’s not hard to say. I can say it around three other guys on the golf course or one person in line at Aldi. But it is hard to do that when I have zero confidence in who I am as a follower of Christ. At that moment, if I’m believing I’m ineffective and that whatever I say is going to come out stupid, I just keep my mouth closed and go about my day. And the enemy just sits back and smiles because he has done his job on Mark Alewine.
One of the verses of “The Good Fight” says,
I’ll keep fighting the good fight
But in Your strength, no not mine
I know You’re always with me
Even when I’m blind
I’ll let my words reflect Your work
I’ll let Your word define my worth
The pathway’s clear, no longer blurred
Here’s what I believe…
The strength that we have is really supplied by the grace of God and He gives us all that we need to live the life to which He called us. It says in 2 Corinthians 10:3-4, “For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh, for the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh, but divinely powerful for the destruction of fortresses.”
You know, fighting this war against our enemy is way more than any resolve we can ever have. Spiritual warfare requires spiritual weapons. It’s our responsibility to put on this armor of God which is described in Ephesians 6:13-17. “Therefore, take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm. Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breast plate of righteousness, and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace. In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the spirit, which is the word of God…”
I found a wonderful resource explaining the Armor of God and spiritual warfare and would like to share it with you. Go to GGSSPodcast.com and look for Episode 9 to find the link. You can listen to the song there also!
When we tell ourselves we’re stupid or dumb or idiots, we take off part of that armor and leave ourselves exposed and we’re no good in the fight.
I hope this chorus gets stuck in your head!
It says:
I’ll believe it before I feel it, I’ll receive it before I see it
I’ll read your word, I’ll speak your words
I’ll pray it, I’ll think it, your truth is my truth
I’ll keep fighting, and there will be no truce
Because I’m your warrior and that’s what I believe
I hope this song energizes you about the battle and especially your self-talk.
Peace
Need a boost today? God-stories do that for me. Today’s episode will hopefully spark expectancy and awareness of Jesus meeting up with you and encourage you to share your God-story with others.
LISTEN TO THE FEATURED SONG>>>
WATCH ZACH’S STORY>>>
SHARE YOUR STORY WITH MARK>>>
I’ve admired Zach Williams since he came onto the scene several years back. I like the realness that he shows and, the rawness of his music is this something that I relate to so well. I’ve never met Zach, but he feels like a guy that I’ve known all my life.
He’s got an incredible testimony of how God showed up at just the right time and helped him recover from drugs and alcohol. It’s amazing the transformation that has taken place and so encouraging, especially if you or someone you love has ever faced similar struggles. You can watch his story on GGSSPodcast.com.
Remembering and recognizing are both very important if we want to grow in our relationship with God! Zach sings a song with Dolly Parton called “There Was Jesus”. This song means so much to me personally and that’s why it was the first cover song that I recorded. You can hear it on the streaming platforms and at GGSSPodcast.com, Episode 8.
It’s a powerful song about recognizing Jesus at every twist and turn of our lives; the Jesus who is willing and waiting to help if we will just take His outstretched hand. I think all of us, if we really thought about it, could say this song, There was Jesus, was written specifically about them. That’s what I love about this song. It’s very relatable.
So what’s your “There was Jesus” moment? Maybe you can think of a bunch of them. That’s great! When you and I share them with each other, expectancy and faith build so we can experience more of the fullness of life that God desires for us. I’ve had many of those moments and I want to have many, many more!
If you’re game, I’ll share a couple of them with you today and I’d love to hear your stories as well! The first story is about the crazy way Jesus got through my thick head and totally changed my life.
I traveled all over the world when my dad was in the Air Force for 20 years. The Air Force was our life and traveling was just something that we did. It was a good life for us and my dad loved serving in the military. He truly loved his country, and my dad truly loved his family.
But traveling the world as a young kid also has some challenges that were very difficult to overcome. We moved around quite a bit. Sometimes we didn’t move super far from where we were living but it still meant yet another new school district.
We moved to Japan when I was 6 weeks old and I spent the first four or five years of my life there. It was all I knew and I remember that I loved it. When we came back to the states, it was a very very difficult transition for me, even as a five-year-old. No joke, the first time I saw snow, I thought rice falling from the sky!
And then we started moving around here in the states and I was always the new kid in school. Seven or eight different schools before high school. I’m not really whining; I’m just stating fact. Being the new kid had its drawbacks.
My dad retired when I went into the ninth grade and we moved back to Georgia which is where we are all from. I was able to go to high school all in one school rather than traveling around every two or three years.
I grew up in the church but had become a little indifferent to Christianity. I was not a God-hater, but I just didn’t care anything about God. I suppose deep down I didn’t know the consequences of a life without Jesus if I died.
There was a youth revival that happened in the southeast back in the 70s and it’s swept through the Southeast in a most amazing way. It truly was Jesus showing up and people realizing it. Many of my friends got saved in high school and many of those friends were football players.
One of these guys in particular would always tell me he loved me, which I thought was strange. But I had the upmost respect for this friend of mine. I looked up to him in many ways. But it was apparent something happened that changed him. I couldn’t put my finger on it but he was different for sure.
I played football with him in and in our junior year we had 4 Christian football coaches. One of those coaches was particularly vocal about his faith. His name was Coach Swails. At football camp the coaches had us doing this drill called Oklahoma. That’s a drill where we use tackling dummys laid down about 5 feet apart and this particular Oklahoma drill was man-on-man. There was one ball carrier, me, and one tackler, this friend I’m talking to you about. There was nothing unusual about the drill or us being paired up for it.
Coach Swails told us, “Boys, if you love them, you’ll hit them.” Now what I think he was trying to say is that we didn’t wanna go easy on each other because we needed this to be as real as if it were the Friday night football game. But there was something particularly strange about the way he said it, “If you love them, you’ll hit them”!
I looked across and my friend had this big dumb grin on his face and I shook in my cleats. It’s kind of funny to think about now but at the time it wasn’t. The whistle blew and we ran for each other. I don’t recall ever being hit as hard as I was at that particular moment.
And as I’m laying on my back and he’s right above me, basically face mask to face mask, he still had that big dumb grin on his face and I was in pain. And I just remember saying to him, “OK OK, I believe you!”
Later, as the rest of the team was getting settled in for the night, he led me to the Lord. It wasn’t anything spectacular that I can recall. It was relatively matter of fact. Here’s what you need to do and here’s why you need to do it. When I came to the realization that I was a sinful human being that needed a savior, I asked the Lord into my heart.
It was simple and peaceful and I knew at that moment that my life changed. There weren’t fireworks or tears, but that day changed my life. That day Jesus showed up at football camp and used an Oklahoma football drill to help me realize my need for Him and His love for me. There was Jesus!
Another poignant “There was Jesus” moment was when death came to my family unexpectedly. I hope this story will be an encouragement to you…to find Jesus in that painful place, whether you’ve experienced it already or not yet.
I was living in Minnesota and my mom and my dad lived next door to my sister, Toni, in the woods in Northeast Georgia. They lived about 100 feet apart and my sister was very active in their lives. She was a nurse and saved each of their lives on at least on one occasion. She was an amazing person.
My dad just had pacemaker surgery to keep his heart regulated. My sister had been running him back-and-forth several times a week to the doctor for about a month. I took some time off to go down to Georgia to help out with appointments and to give her a break.
I got there on a Sunday. That night Toni and I played games with my mom and dad at their house. It was a very very special time. I couldn’t remember just the four of us doing anything together since high school or so because of families and everything else. We got done playing and my sister walked over to her house to make some dinner for us.
She called and told me dinner was ready so I went over to pick up the meal. She met me on her patio and we chatted for a few minutes, just the two of us. The last couple of things she said to me were, “Everything‘s gonna be OK now right?” I said, “yes, everything‘s gonna be OK”. We exchanged “I love yous” and I headed back off to my parent’s house with dinner.
The next morning, we were expecting her for breakfast. When she didn’t come over and didn’t answer our phone calls, we went to check on her. We discovered that she had passed away there in her home. What a shock! Everything changed at that moment.
I came home on Sunday and on Tuesday I’m holding my sister’s ashes in an urn. My family flew in the following Monday from Minnesota for the funeral on Wednesday. I remember putting my arm around my mom during the entire service. This was one of the most difficult times in our family’s life and without Jesus, I don’t know what we would’ve done.
Pastor Jason was the pastor of the church that my parents and Toni went to about 2 miles up the road out in the country. He was the perfect Jesus representative that my family and I needed that day.
He told everyone that Toni had started coming to church two months before. When the church was having revival meetings, she came to those as well. He said Toni had given her life to Jesus just one month ago. One month before she passed away!
And then Pastor Jason said something profound. He said, “it’s a sad day but it’s not a bad day”. That’s a phrase I will never forget. Think about it. It was very sad for my mom my dad, her son, her daughter, her grandchildren, her friends; incredibly sad to lose someone in their mid-50s with so much to look forward to here on earth. But it’s not a bad day because she is in her eternal home after making her decision to ask Jesus into her life one month before she passed away.
There was Jesus! Jesus was there when I needed Him and Jesus was there when my sister needed Him and Jesus is there for all of us. Reality is we just need to open our spiritual eyes to see His hands stretched out to all of us wanting to give us help and hope; showing us love and compassion and direction! Let’s keep reminding each other, not just There was Jesus!... but there IS Jesus!
The chorus says:
In the waiting, in the searching
In the healing, in the hurting
Like a blessing buried in the broken pieces
Every minute, every moment
Where I’ve been or where I’m going
Even when I didn’t know it
Or couldn’t see it
There was Jesus
So, what’s one of your “There was Jesus” stories? Think about it, and then, please share it. Find a way to tell your story to others so they can be encouraged by what’s happened in your life. And share it with me please. Go to GGSSPodcast.com and click the CONTACT MARK button. I’d love to hear from you.
And don’t forget while you’re there, you can see Zach’s testimony and listen to my cover of “There Was Jesus”.
Peace
Does a noisy mind drive you crazy? I know I can definitely relate to that! In this week’s episode, I’ll be sharing a song that addresses the noise in our lives and minds as well as some tips that have helped me a lot in this area. Maybe they could help change things for you as well!
LISTEN TO THE FEATURED SONG>>>
DOWNLOAD THE NOISE CHECKLIST>>>
CONTACT MARK>>>
Life, with all its highs and lows, is the best inspiration that I have found for writing songs and it seems there’s always something to write about. I think many songwriters would say similar things.
You’ll find that most, if not all, of the songs of Mark Alewine Music are simply a piece of someone’s story and how God and His truth figure into it. Of course some songs come out my personal life if I’m going through a particular situation whether good or bad. Some come from other peoples lives. I love to have conversations with people and hear their stories and then sit down and write about it. Doesn’t matter who it is.
Here’s how one of the songs came about. I was on the worship team one Sunday morning. We got done with rehearsal and there were 8 or 9 of us sitting around a table waiting for church to start. Struggles were definitely the prevailing topic of conversation that day. I was listening intently and feeling what each person was going through.
The phrase “noise of life” came up in conversation. Others around the table nodded their heads. I pulled out my phone and started writing as they were talking. The “noise” they talked about boiled down to stuff like the distractions and demands of life that kept them so busy and preoccupied; that kept them from feeling close to God or maybe their family.
Unexpected, hard news was another thing they talked about, maybe in their own life but also disturbing stuff heard continually on the news.
We prayed for each other and encouraged each other. Worship was a bit sweeter that day as a result of this “life” connection we’d had around the table.
Cindy and I went camping right after church. The next morning, I was reminded about the “noise” conversation when I realized how “noisy” the birds were around us. We started talking about the “noise” of life, what were some of the causes in our own lives and what could we do about it.
I shared with her the rough draft of the song idea I had started on my phone around that table on Sunday and we started working it into a song which would be titled, “You Calm the Noise”. I had my guitar with me and started messing around finding a melody for it in the midst of all the nature sounds.
Along with the song came something else. As we brainstormed, so many things came to mind that had been either triggers or solutions for us in the past so we created a list of them, a “noise checklist” of sorts. We were encouraged to realize that there’s quite a bit we can do to eliminate the “noise” going on in our heads if given some thought, prayer and intentionality.
I want to highlight three of those for you and give you a free download of the entire list if you’re interested.
The first question on the checklist is, “As far as it’s up to me, are there any broken relationships in my life?” Broken relationships can take up much of our thoughts and perhaps even keeping us awake at night which makes us more vulnerable to the noise of life in general. Since you’re human, I’m pretty sure you’ve experienced this.
Sometimes vain imaginations are to blame. These are nebulous things that create riffs between people. Here’s how it plays out with me… I think or perceive that someone is mad at me and, without talking to them, I allow that to keep our relationship at a distance. I even go to bed at night thinking, “why is this person mad at me?” Worry comes into play, sleep becomes difficult, functioning at work or even functioning at home can be difficult because of I’m always thinking about that broken relationship.
I need to have an intentional conversation with that person that goes something like this, “I have this vain imagination that you’re mad at me. Is that true?” Now, I have to be ready to listen, letting that person explain what’s going on and either put that vain imagination to rest or to answer the question with a “yes I am mad, you jerk” (or whatever). Then at least you can talk about that part and fix the problem.
I have found this to be so incredibly helpful and I’m glad someone taught me about it years ago. Give it a try next time you are stewing over something that is likely just a vain imagination and share this tip with others!
On the other hand, we could also really have a problem with somebody and could go to them and say, “I know I did this to you” or “I said this” or “I shouldn’t have done that. Would you forgive me?”
Now the ball is in their court because we’ve humbled ourselves in trying to fix the problem. The Bible says in Romans 12:18, “as far as it’s up to you, be at peace with all men”. Even if the other person won’t forgive you, you can have peace and “quiet” knowing you have done your part, continuing to pray for them and letting God do His work in their heart. We are only responsible to “keep our side of the street clean” and leave the rest up to God.
This leads into the next question on the noise checklist that I’d like to talk about. Ask yourself,
“Is there anyone I refuse to forgive, even though God is present right now to help me through the process?” Have you ever found yourself on that end of not forgiving someone? Someone has done something so horrible in your mind that there’s no way you could forgive them. You know what I mean.
Unforgiveness causes background noise in our lives and take much of our time, energy, thoughts and sometimes our health. Certainly, as followers of Christ, unforgiveness puts a divide between us and our Heavenly Father. That’s what Jesus said in Matthew 6:14-15.
How would Jesus handle the particular situation you might be thinking of right now? Some offenses are truly more difficult to process. I know this first-hand. Sometimes the first step is to ask God to help us be willing to forgive. It is definitely a choice rather than something you feel like doing!
Forgiveness might be a daily choice or even a moment-by-moment choice. Sometimes it takes quite a bit of time but we should always work towards forgiving. Making progress in this area is HUGE to help quiet the noise in your life. As a result, we also become much more effective as husbands or wives or friends or bosses or workers or church goers…the list goes on and on. Quiet the noise of unforgiveness.
The third question to ask yourself from the noise checklist is, “Am I putting the Lord first in my life, in every area and spending time with Him consistently, not just when I feel like it or it’s convenient?”
Spending time with the Lord every day, a regular time, is the most important thing that I do. For me it’s in the morning first thing, the first fruits of my day. When I’m connected to the King of the Universe and when I’m right with him, I’m just better throughout the day. It’s a lot easier for me to reflect Jesus to others when I’m connected on a regular basis.
When I’m trying to do life in my own strength, with my own words and my own humanistic actions, it’s pretty disastrous. Now that’s not to say that going through the day is going to be perfect and without any problems but it certainly puts me in a better frame of light to see the opportunities that the Lord has for me that day and to respond in a way that He would respond.
The noise of life can displace God‘s peace, joy and hope in our hearts and minds. Thankfully there are things we can do to quiet so much of the noise of life so we can hear from God and respond to situations in a calm manner that reflects Him.
Cindy and I had a beautiful time working on the song, You Calm the Noise, because we could both relate to what it’s about!
The chorus of the song says:
There’s so much noise I can’t hear
So many things I could fear
But the peace and joy You bring
Help me through the day and I sing
And You calm the noise.
Can you relate also?
One of the verses says:
I’m convinced as each day passes by, life’s a test,
That’s truth, it ain’t no lie.
Here’s the secret, it’s true, no lie
Stay connected to the One who gives us life
We know the secret! Connection with the true source of life is what gives the ability to experience peace and joy in the midst of life’s struggles. That’s what I’m talking about on a daily basis spending time with the Lord and reading the word of God.
The bridge says:
You still speak today, in so many ways
You still live today, live through me.
If we allow Jesus to live through us, can you imagine what our families would look like, what our neighborhoods would look like, what our workplaces would look like, what our churches would look like? Jesus living through us is an absolutely beautiful thing.
My hope and prayer for all of us is that we would do our part in quieting the noise of life. You can get a free download of The Noise Checklist that I referred to in this podcast at GGSSPodcast.com, Episode 7.
It’s in a nice printable form that you can put up on your refrigerator or in your office or wherever the best place to be reminded of things that you can do to quiet the noise of life.
I hope you have a most amazing, noise free week coming up.
Peace
Each test of life prepares us for the next. And failure is only failure if we don’t learn from it. With that in mind, would you join me to revisit a global test of faith, and more importantly, reclaim spiritual ground and then reload for the next test of faith. Stick around to the end of the podcast to find out about a couple gifts for you.
LISTEN TO TODAY’S FEATURED SONG>>
SHOW WEBPAGE>>
FACEBOOK GROUP>>
REVISIT
What is faith? Simple definition, trust and confidence in something or someone. Of course we are talking about faith in God, who He is and what He says.
Would you agree that fear is not necessarily the lack of faith but definitely the enemy of faith? Faith and fear fight for our heart’s focus, our sanity, and our influence. Fear is basically focusing on circumstances rather than God. Faith is focusing on God in spite of circumstances. The Bible talks a lot about fear, the testing of our faith and the power of faith. And it’s possible to feel fear but still act in faith despite the feelings of fear. Good news is God desires for us to win this battle and gives us what we need to do so!
One of the most noteable battles of faith and fear came under the label of Covid19. Many of my friends, myself included, found ourselves facing fear in a brand new way. We were already weary and agitated from the election chaos when this new test appeared.
Think about where you were when you first heard about it. I was waiting for surgery when I heard about the first case in the United States. And I remember listening to news and all they could talk about was how terrible this virus was and that it was going to kill just about everybody it seemed. At the time, Cindy and I were recovering from something unfamiliar and wondered later if that wasn’t Covid19.
Then things started shutting down and I couldn’t believe it. Colleges, businesses, schools, sports, churches. New ways of meeting and doing business evolved but isolation, loneliness and depression were huge side effects.
Another surreal thing was the silence. Cindy and I live under some of the flight paths of the Minneapolis/St Paul airport. It was eerily quiet. Seemed no one was traveling anywhere. Rush-hour didn’t even exist. Here in Minneapolis, you could travel the freeways at any time of day or night and not have any traffic to speak of. Kinda felt like the rapture had happened.
People were afraid to go out of their homes and go shopping. Do you remember? Many of the men I run with were wrestling with anxiety and fear. Seeing how it gripped them shook me to the core. I was both surprised at their reactions but also tempted to join in.
RECLAIM
I have a dear friend and we would have discussions and he would say things like, “my” anxiety is at a higher level. Or “my” anxiety is flaring up. The word “my” gives ownership to something. I began to recognize the impact of ownership in these statements. When you own something like anxiety and call it yours, it’s very very difficult to give it up. But when you see anxiety for what it is, something that plagues you, don’t own it. Wow what powerful lesson for me, for him, for us all! Let’s recognize it, confess it and pray against it. That has been one of the biggest helps for me. Don’t own things you don’t want. Don’t own things that are not from God! It’s a new mindset for sure but I love it!
I remember having discussions with several of my friends about what a decent response would be to the Covid pandemic, what God would say about it. Thoughts were really all over the map. I did NOT want to live in fear and knew I needed to take action! I believe God was working in my heart a simple response. Inspired, I went into the studio, grabbed my guitar and wrote Nothin’ Changes That. I suppose this was my declaration, my stance, putting Jesus over all of this, over the fear and the divisiveness.
You are life, nothing changes that
You are peace, nothing changes that
You are hope, nothing changes that
You are Lord, nothing changes that
I find panic is one of the biggest deterrents to finding true peace in Jesus. I’m very familiar with panic. I’ve known what it’s like to feel frozen in place. Almost as if you were at the bottom of the ocean chained to a weight and looking up with no hope. That’s what I experienced in therapy when repressed memories suddenly came back. There seemed to be no way out and I felt frozen in place. I knew didn’t want to stay there, though. Tragically, many people do stay there. If that’s you, I’m begging you, don’t stay there! There is hope and help out there.
During Covid, the whole world seemed frozen, emotional alarms were going off everywhere and panic was rampant! The good news is that our spiritual eyes and spiritual ears allow us to experience a different reality!
The chorus says this:
Cause when I panic You bring calm to me
When I’m blind, You open my eyes and set me free
And when I listen to the world, my mind starts racing
But when I listen to Your word, my heart starts beating for You
So when I go to the Lord with my panic, He brings me peace and when I say to Him, “Lord, I can’t see; I’m too afraid,” He opens my eyes to His answer and He sets me free.
And obviously it’s much easier to know the truth when I saturate myself in the word of God and I spend time praying to the God of the universe. I find it true to this day that if all I listen to is the news, all they want me to hear is the fear. Fear brings ratings. And I…we… fall for it again and again and again. But when I spend time in the word and praying every morning, God brings a calm and a peace to me and I know He will for you also. He is the answer the world needs so desperately.
From Genesis to Revelation, “do not be afraid” is mentioned again and again and again. So why don’t we, and I put myself in that category, listen to the Word of God more. I’m afraid we spend more time saturating ourselves in the news which as was said earlier, wants us to be afraid, rather than saturating ourselves in the word of God and putting on the armor of God everyday.
“Well, I’m only human!” That’s the excuse that I hear from others and sometimes from my own lips. While that is true, we have an amazing God who is everywhere.
RELOAD
How did you grow (or fail) in faith under the “Covid test”? Are you preparing spiritually for the next test of faith that is sure to come along?
Obviously, there’s lots of things we can’t control but there are some that we CAN control. There’s SUCH power in knowing the difference AND having a personal relationship with God who CAN handle what we can’t!
Here’s three key areas of control I’ve found to be super helpful:
- Acceptance is POWERFUL! And it’s possible to accept things you cannot control when you know God and reinforce His truth, His perspective moment by moment in your life; knowing He will handle what you can’t. In Celebrate Recovery, we prayed the Serenity Prayer each meeting. It was a great reminder of the peace that comes from recognizing the difference between what we can control and what we can’t. The place we give God in our life is something we can control.
- The people we hang out with and listen to absolutely matters! Yes, relationships can be messy but we are much more prone to deception and defeat when we do life alone. The key is hanging out with the right people. They say your life will look like the average of the 5 people you hang out with. Be intentional who you allow to be in that group of 5. The Bible talks a lot about gathering together as believers and the power of unity. Jesus prayed for our unity and love for each other right before He was betrayed. Let’s make community a priority and learn how to leverage this God-given resource. I believe this is the most underutilized secret weapon we have and am passionate to help God’s people to connect with each other in community, life on life, in a powerful way. I like to think of it as the Jesus in me ganging up with the Jesus in you to stand our ground and wreak havoc on our adversary. Who we hang out with is something we can control.
- What we feed our spirits matters. I heard a story many years ago about our lives being similar to a fight between a “good” dog and a “bad” dog? Both are very strong and constantly fighting without a clear winner. You desperately want the “good” dog to win. What might you do to help it defeat the “bad” dog? You could simply quit feeding the “bad” dog. It would eventually become weak enough to be overcome by the “good” dog. Kinda like Jesus said, if your right hand causes you to stumble, cut it off…(laugh)…in today’s culture would He have said “talk radio” or “social media” or “the evening news”. Just sayin. What we feed our spirit – this is something we can we can control.
Let’s take control of what we can and, as the bridge of the song says,
I won’t let my faith fade
No matter what they say
The world may turn away
But in you, that’s where I’ll stay
Jesus is Lord, God is good, He will never leave us or forsake us…NOTHIN’ CHANGES THAT!
There’s a couple gifts I’d like to give you related to this song - a phone wallpaper to help you remember this important truth and a printable copy of the Serenity Prayer. Check out this episode on GGSSPodcast.com to get your free downloads.
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(Mark) Last week I introduced you to “My Lady”, Cindy Alewine who inspired the song “My Lady”. I promised to let you hear from her this week. Today’s story is how God took an unthinking comment Cindy made at a very low point in her life and brought about a powerful battle cry and victory song. I’ll let her tell you all about it.
(Cindy) Hi everybody! I’m so glad you’re here and I’m excited to share this story with you. First of all, I’m an only child (and no I wasn’t spoiled). My mom passed away when I was 35 years old so my dad was on his own for many years.
Since he lived in Georgia, It was challenging trying to help him when he started having all sorts of issues. Finally the time came for a change. He had undiagnosed Parkinson’s Disease and some other problems that made it impossible to continue to live on his own.
So we moved him to Minnesota into our home. I quit my job to stay home with him full-time. Dad and I loved each other but I had lots of buttons for him to push and sometimes our relationship felt like oil and water. Still, I felt satisfied and even a bit noble. Mark here was a great help and we believed this was God’s will. Others helped us as well and Dad truly appreciated our love and care. Things were going great.
After a while, though, over the next five and a half years, I let the mundane tasks, the hours of noisy TV and the 24/7 responsibility get to me. I often felt weary, sometimes I felt trapped. I definitely felt like a hostage to negative thoughts and feelings. My body was affected also and I had quite a bit of pain. Despite being loved and supported, I struggled with depression and felt hopeless.
Out of necessity, I dug into to my relationship with God. So many beautiful things came when I would be still, listen and accept the opportunity to grow.
I began recognizing the underlying choices I faced each day. Choices between easy, convenient and comfortable OR becoming like Jesus. If trials were a gift like the Bible says and if they could help me become mature in faith, then I wanted to accept them and embrace the growth. Of course, this was much easier said than done!
I know this is a spiritual “DUH!” but I felt like God was prompting me to “start with praise”. Usually first thing in the morning I’d barge into His presence asking for this or that and sometimes leaving without really listening for a response. I started picking out one praise song to sing before I said anything else. That made a surprising difference! I still do that to this day and sometimes I wake up with a song I hadn’t thought of for years.
I also made a 4 song playlist of high octane praise songs that I listened to over and over throughout the day using my headphones to help drown out the TV blaring in the background. Just hearing the first few measures of a song would often trigger a reset for me mentally. Wow! I know it’s true and it makes sense, but I still marvel how differently God’s presence, comfort, love and power are experienced when we settle into praise.
I was staying close to God but my thoughts and feelings were very uncooperative! I found a sermon series by Craig Groeschel of Life Church called Winning the War in Your Mind. I listened and re-listened and re-listened to it, applying God‘s truth and finding hope. We also went through a series called Free Indeed by Robert Morris of Gateway Church and discovered some strongholds in my life that kept me spinning in some areas. (I highly recommend checking out these resources for yourself and you can find links at GGSSPodcast.com)
Marinating in scripture was critical during this time. There’s a number of verses that I clung to. One of them was “Take every though captive to the obedience of Christ” from 2 Corinthians 10:5. I learned that the meaning was to take every thought captive as if by spear point. What a great mental picture! I had to choose whether to tolerate the loud, repetitive negative thoughts that resulted in undesirable feelings OR kick them out and refill that space with truth by the power of the Holy Spirit.
Another verse from Romans 12:11-13 MSG version says “Don’t burn out; keep yourselves fueled and aflame. Be alert servants of the Master, cheerfully expectant. Don’t quit in hard times; pray all the harder.” I learned that no one else was responsible for my emotional wellbeing. I was responsible for my own input, for taking in the good and keeping out the bad. I think Henry Cloud would call that boundaries!
One of the big challenges I faced was not feeling productive (you know-like the culture defines productive). It’s amazing how God addresses even that! Hebrews 13:16 MSG version says…”God takes particular pleasure in acts of worship – a different kind of sacrifice – that take place in kitchen and workplace and on the streets.” That meant a lot to me because I spent a lot of time in the kitchen.
So by now you have an idea of what was going on in my heart and head and why I might be crabby about not having much time or energy to dive into music stuff with Mark.
It was on Thursday. It had been a particularly frustrating day, my body was in pain and I was crabby. It was date night so we got things all settled for Dad at home so we can be away for a couple of hours. As we're driving down the road, Mark asks me, “so what do you want to do after get done eating”? I'm still trying to come out of my mental funk so sarcastically I said, “I want to write a song.” Mark, you remember how your jaw dropped? We had a little bit of a discussion about it but I didn’t think too much more of it.
We went out on our date and had a nice time. When we get back home, Mark heads off to the basement, ready to write a song. And I'm like, “Ooh, okay. He missed the sarcasm. I guess I better put some effort into this since I mentioned it!” I didn’t know what to expect really because we'd never written a song together before.
Anyway Mark asked me, “so how are you feeling?” I told him, and he says, “well, what's God teaching you in all this? What's God speaking to you about?” And I said, “well, a lot of really good things. It's just that I'm having such a hard time getting it from my head to my heart.” Then I started telling him all the good things that God was pouring into my life and showing me and everything. So Mark started strumming the guitar and words started coming to both of us based on this conversation that we just had. When we finished and gave it the title Unshaken, it was such a beautiful, holy moment! It was amazing!
Whatever your challenges and struggles might be, Mark and I hope you will dig deep into a relationship with God and that Unshaken will become your battle cry and your victory song as well! Thanks for listening.
(Mark) To hear the song and see the resources Cindy mentioned, check out Episode 5-UNSHAKEN on the website, GGSSPodcast.com.
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This week’s story is meant to help you anticipate the sweetness of life if you just keep hanging in there, giving God time and space to work in your life and relationships. I’ll also introduce you to my wife, Cindy, and the song she inspired called, My Lady.
First let’s start with guitars. I own 2 Taylor guitars. The thing about owning a really nice guitar is after you’ve had them for some time, they seem to get sweeter and sweeter and their sound gets warmer, richer and more inviting. This is also true of other instruments.
I’ve had one of my Taylor guitars for about 22 years now. I absolutely love it. And the sound has gotten more incredible as the years go by.
That’s been the way it has been with me and Cindy. As the years go by, she just gets sweeter and sweeter. And I’m blown away to think that I have been married to this incredible woman for going on 41 years this June.
As I share the story of today’s featured song, My Lady, I hope you’ll be inspired to take a different look at your life, your spouse (if you have one) and what sweetness God has for you as you keep on growing.
Cindy and I got married when we were 19 and 21 years old. Needless to say, we both were quite immature and sometimes fought over very silly things. Thankfully we both loved Jesus and had great peer pressure to work things out.
It wasn’t long before we had kids, grown up jobs and big life decisions. We didn’t know what we didn’t know - which was - that we both had hurts and hang-ups that impacted our relationship and that would knock us down in the near future. We loved each other as best we knew how and continued to grow little by little.
Even as believers who loved God, we experienced disappointments, betrayals, heartbreaks, mental and physical breakdowns, financial challenges, trouble with kids, uncertainties with parents and so many “normal” but horrible things that seemed to push us apart but pull us together all at the same time. We loved each other as best we knew how and continued to grow a little at a time.
I’ve always appreciated Cindy and her support but one night, while sitting at her father’s deathbed, I had a moment of amazing clarity and sweetness which inspired the song, My Lady.
She left the room to take a break for a few minutes. As I watched her, I was suddenly overwhelmed with gratitude for her as my wife and for her selfless acts of kindness for her dad and for me and for anybody she comes in contact with.
Words came to me very very quickly so I started to talk-texting as fast as I could. There was no melody yet, just words.
It was as if the years flashed before me and these words were the culmination of years of struggle and growth together, sweeter than anything we’d experienced so far in our marriage.
Aside from my relationship with Jesus, she is truly the most remarkable relationship that I have ever had in my life! I’m so so grateful. There’s nothing she wouldn’t do for me and honestly, there’s nothing I wouldn’t do for her.
We are doing something together now that we did NOT do early on in marriage and I want to share it with you so you don’t miss out.
We make the time virtually every morning just to talk about what God is doing in our lives and to pray together for the day. That has been one of the most impacting things that we have ever done. This has brought us even closer and closer together.
This next part is no judgment on anybody else, no condemnation whatsoever. I realize that there are many people, many couples out there, that don’t pray together on a regular basis. I realize it may feel awkward. I would say just start with a quick prayer in the morning and then build on that. This is something that you will never regret and you’ll be surprised at how much you grow together as a couple.
Remember that “music makes stuff stick”! So guys, use songs like My Lady to help you appreciate your wife, to soften your heart towards her. And gals, use songs like My Lady to bring out the very best in you.
Hey, as we wrap things up here, I invite you to listen to My Lady on your favorite streaming platform or at GGSSPodcast.com. And let me know what you think! I’d love to hear from you. Just send an email to podcast@markalewinemusic.com
Don’t forget to join us next week when you’ll hear from Cindy about one of the songs we wrote together during a particularly tough time in her life. It might just be what you need to stand strong when you’re going through a tough time.
Do you ever wonder if personal peace is even possible in today’s world? For the next few minutes let’s stop, breathe and take a sweet little sip of peace.
There’s something about coffee that takes me back. Something about it that helps me to stop and enjoy the moment. I don’t drink enough coffee to get addicted, but I do look forward to my morning coffee every day. I make it the night before and have it set so it comes on early and it’s nice and hot when we wake up. There’s just something about it.
Coffee with friends is a huge part of my life. I love going into coffee shops and smelling what’s going on and even the noise of the coffee shop is pleasant for me. When I was worship pastor, I set up most of my meetings in coffee shops.
I’ve been going to northern Minnesota every year for about 34 years fishing with my son and some friends. It’s a small group of about four of us. We stay in a very simple resort in a town called Orr Minnesota, a town of about 175 people. The north side of town is about a minute from the south side of town, meaning it’s pretty small. We fish on a lake called Pelican Lake, which is a huge lake. And the fishing is incredible.
There’s this train. The train used to be a huge annoyance as we would get up there and the train would run through anywhere from 10 to probably 15 times a day all through the night and all through the day. The place we stay at is across the bay so as the crow flies probably a little over half a mile. The train would be very loud and you could hear it coming for what feels like miles away. It used to be very very frustrating. Somewhere along the way, my perspective changed. Now, I so look forward to hearing that train all through the night and all through the day. It’s a peaceful sound from a distance and echoes through those northern woods. It’s just part of the overall experience up there. It really is incredible. And now when I hear a train anywhere else, it takes me back to northern Minnesota.
Each morning we wake up in our very primitive cabin and head on over to the TPatton Café for coffee and breakfast. I suppose we are considered regulars because we are there every year and sometimes twice a year. We know the owner, Tara, very well. She and her staff are wonderful people that know how to take care of their customers.
They have a simple menu in a beautiful unique setting. The restaurant is an old train depot and when you walk in you take a few steps down to the dining area. The food is cooked upstairs. There’s about 15 to 18 steps to get upstairs so the servers really get a work out! The real workout is When the delivery truck comes and he has to make about eight trips with his two wheel dolly loaded up with Food going up the steps.
One of the simplest things they serve is coffee. It’s not really a special kind of coffee. Nothing you would find in a coffee shop per se. Coffee shops as I said earlier, are a big deal for me and I have to show much restraint to not run into a coffee shop every day and buy coffee. But there’s something about coffee in northern Minnesota at T Patton Café. Believe it or not I still remember the first cup of coffee that I had there. And it’s something that I look forward to every year as we get ready to go. I even start thinking about this at the beginning of the year even though the trip happens around Memorial Day for a week. I’m sure it has something to do with getting away from the stress of the city life and enjoying the wild north of Minnesota with great friends over a cup of coffee (or 6 cups).
I have a friend in Nashville and he and I discuss coffee and even though we can’t have a cup of coffee in the same room, we slow down and just chat as we sip coffee together sometimes, separately. Sometimes we were just chat and cut up. Other times we’ll talk about life’s deep struggles together. One day, the conversation was particularly pain filled. As we wrapped things up, I felt inspired, went into the studio and wrote the first verse and the song started coming together. When you listen to my music, you’ll realize that most, if not all of my songs, are written around life experiences.
The second verse came about as a result of a very awkward moment at church one Sunday several years back when I was leading worship. We had gone over everything with all the people that needed to know so that we could make sure everything ran smoothly and everyone knew what was going on. Everyone said they understood and so we went about our Sunday morning service.
Well…things did not go smoothly at all. One person had forgotten what we just talked about and created a really strange moment in the service. It was incredibly uncomfortable to say the least and there was nothing that I could do about it while it was happening. I was pretty upset, to be honest.
So if we fast forward to the end of the service I was backstage behind the curtain getting ready to come out and lead the last song after the sermon was done. I was fuming mad. I honestly had nothing to give because I was so focused on the problem that we had had earlier. I felt very inadequate to go out and lead this congregation in worship. And as the speaker was wrapping up his message, that’s when the second verse hit me and I typed as fast as I could.
“When your anger rises at the smallest things and your spirit’s raw and you’ve got nothing to bring, when you open your mouth but you cannot sing; When the worries high but the faith is low and you’re at the point you don’t know where to go, and you speak the words but you still don’t know; I pray this prayer over you.” It came so fast and it was very healing for me as I wrote those words down. It was right then that I asked the Lord’s forgiveness and I was able to lead well in this closing song.
I finished writing the rest of the song when I get home that day, “May Your Coffee Taste Much Sweeter”. It’s a long title, but I think you get it.
The bridge says, “God knows your struggle, He knows how hard life can be. He’s with you in your trouble, He’ll calm your storming seas”.
Most of us know that coffee itself doesn’t taste sweet but there’s something about coffee that sweetens the day for those of us who like it. If your drink is hot chocolate or hot tea or hot water, this song is for you too. I think this song will bring a smile to your face and a bounce to your step. God does indeed know all of our struggles and how hard this life is! He’s reaching His hand out to me, to you, and all we have to do is reach back and grab His hand. Do it in your stressful times and do it in your peaceful times, but do it.
I hope that no matter what you’re going through, no matter what your struggle or trial is right now, that you will tap into the source of life, the source of eternal life, Jesus Christ.
Here’s the prayer:
May your coffee taste much sweeter than it did yesterday
May God’s blessing overflow and make you dance
May the people that surround you touch your heart like never before
And help you fall in love with life all over again
Peace
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Transcript:
Today let’s talk about the song What Are We Gonna Do? How many times have you asked yourself that question? When I finally quit asking the question rhetorically and really wanted to know, I found some helpful answers that I’d like to share with you in today’s podcast.
The 2020 election insanity and the pandemic topped off by the divisiveness, violence, looting and burning in Mpls/St Paul put me over the edge. Even as a follower of Jesus, I had my moments of fear and I let fear get the best of me. Panic could easily take over if I let it. I knew if I didn’t keep my hope and faith anchored on what God says about who He is and what is yet to come, I would completely freak out or probably do something really stupid. So I did a lot of soul searching and questioning God that ultimately led to the writing of this song, What are We Gonna Do? You can hear the instrumental playing underneath this right now.
First, we have to start with the right framework, with what God says about this life on earth (See footnote at end of the show notes for specific Bible references). The Bible says that the world lies in the power of the evil one1 and that our struggle is NOT against flesh and blood but against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the HEAVENLY places2. Jesus said in this world we would have tribulation3. Yep, I can believe that!
The Bible also says we need to be prepared so we can resist4 and that God in us is greater than he who is in the world (talking about the devil).5 It says, Don’t be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good6. Surely this must be possible if the Bible states it so clearly, right? I’m still asking God to help me believe, not just with my head, but with my heart and to be ready to act like I believe it!
I believe this life is a test. A test of our faith and our ability to allow God to speak into our lives. I believe we, more than ever, have the ability to be the light of the world that is needed so desperately! So when the world is on fire, what is our response? What do we say or do that reflects the work that Jesus has done in our lives as believers, as HIS followers.
Should we be angry at some of the things that we are seeing? Absolutely! Should we rile each other up as well? No…we are called to strongly encourage each other to do the right thing, living to the glory of God! That is truly loving one another!
Should we speak the first thing that comes to our mind in response to those things? I’ve done that and usually those words weren’t reflective of the work that Jesus has done in my life. The Bible says “words kill or words give life, they’re either poison or fruit, you choose”7. That is incredibly powerful and hugely important.
Throughout a lifetime of failures and apologies, I’ve come up with a process that I want to share with you that can help. You see, we have this super computer in our head that can play out scenarios with the words that we say and what that story is going to look like at the end. So this happens very quickly if we allow it. You can see the end of this particular moment and you can change your words based on that predicted outcome. Whether it’s to someone’s face or a text to someone or something on social media, you can see the end of that story pretty clearly and change what you are going to say or do.
The real test is do we care enough about what pleases God to choose our response accordingly or do we give in to “feeling” justified in our words and actions regardless of how much pain it could cause; pain to ourselves, to others and to God Himself.
I believe the more time we spend praying and the less time we spend giving our own personal commentary to people on what’s going on, the more the Holy Spirit works and the more receptive people are to God’s truth. I also believe that the more time we spend praying and the less time we spend worrying helps to bring peace to our own lives. Which would you rather spread? Worry and panic or peace?
Friends, I need the same encouragement. I’m not exempt from panicking and worrying and flying off the handle with my words that can hurt someone in my circle, or can certainly hurt my Jesus-influence on those that are still seeking.
I do believe there is a time for action, don’t get me wrong. But that action is going to reflect what the Word of God says or it’s going to reflect Mark’s personal opinion on whatever the situation is. Again, I would prefer my actions and my words to go through the filter of what the Bible says.
There’s no condemnation in any of the things that I’m saying. This is an encouragement to us, those of us who love Jesus--do not let worldly influence affect how we live our lives for the Kingdom‘s sake.
The next test is do we act like we believe what God says about love and prayer in the context of a world on fire? I was surprised at how much the Bible had to say about this.
If ever there was a time to pray, it’s now! The song, What are We Gonna Do, was written as a call to prayer in response to all the things going on in the world today. Jesus Himself tells us to pray, asking our Heavenly Father that HIS WILL would be done, here on this earth as it is in heaven8. Prayer changes things!
We are called to bless and pray for each other. It’s easier said than done, but Jesus clearly includes our ENEMIES in that statement9.
We are called to pray for our governmental leaders10 at the federal level all the way down to the local levels. I had to ask myself, when’s the last time I really really prayed for my governmental leaders, not from a selfish standpoint, but to pray that God would intervene in their lives the way he intervened in mine. The Bible describes it as coming to one’s senses and escaping from the snare of the devil, having been held captive by him to do his will.11 We are to pray for all in authority SO THAT we may lead a tranquil and quiet life.12 Who doesn’t want more of that!
We are called to pray for the church to shine in this incredibly dark time that we live in. By the way, for those of us who call ourselves Christ-followers, we are the church.
We’re called to pray for our pastors13 that they would be strong and know what God wants them to say each Sunday in front of millions of people collectively. The church is truly the answer to the world’s problems. Have you ever stopped to think about how many people are worshiping the God of the universe at any particular moment? We are part of that global worship. Isn’t that staggering?
I don’t go to church to make myself feel better; I used to though. Do you know what an encouragement it is on Sunday to see people gather together in the same room and the pour themselves out in worship? And when those same people join together in prayer, amazing things happen. I think we will be shocked in heaven when we see the playback reels of all the answers to prayer that we were not aware of; that were not reported on the news.
The chorus of this song says, let’s turn our thoughts to heaven, to the one who is in control. To the one who truly loves and speaks life to our soul. Let’s turn our thoughts to heaven and God will make a way! I say, let’s pray”
Here’s the prayer:
God turn our hearts
God make a move
God reveal what’s true
We put our hope in YOU!
Scripture references:
I 1 John 5:19
2 Ephesians 6:12
3 John 16:33
4 Ephesians 6:13
5 I John 4:4
6 Romans 12:21
7 Proverbs 18:21
8 Matthew 6:10
9 Matthew 5:44
10 I Timothy 2:2
11 II Timothy 2:26
12 I Timothy 2:2
13 Romans 15:30-32; Ephesians 6:19-20
In this first episode, singer/songwriter, Mark Alewine, introduces himself and the podcast, explaining his passion for telling God-stories and encouraging you with a story of his own. Leave inspired to resist letting fear keep you from something amazing.