Hope Signals: Recent Episodes
Mark & Suzan Mason
Hope Signals is the podcast of Life on the Verge Ministries. We offer practical insights to help you achieve maximum impact and influence in life. Your support of this podcast keeps Life on the Verge on the road and in prison entertaining, equipping and evangelizing the incarcerated.
Things are heating up in the political world as the US looks to elect a new leader of the free world this year. Vicious attack ads, scathing news articles, mean spirited sermons and even violence in the form of an assassination attempt on a candidate are proof that division grows deeper by the day. How do we as believers continue to be salt, light and a city on hill in the midst of it all whilst at the same time taking responsibility for the freedoms God has entrusted us with? In this series, I'll try my best to get us thinking in a biblical direction.
Things are heating up in the political world as the US looks to elect a new leader of the free world this year. Vicious attack ads, scathing news articles, mean spirited sermons and even violence in the form of an assassination attempt on a candidate are proof that division grows deeper by the day. How do we as believers continue to be salt, light and a city on hill in the midst of it all whilst at the same time taking responsibility for the freedoms God has entrusted us with? In this series, I'll try my best to get us thinking in a biblical direction.
Things are heating up in the political world as the US looks to elect a new leader of the free world this year. Vicious attack ads, scathing news articles, mean spirited sermons and even violence in the form of an assassination attempt on a candidate are proof that division grows deeper by the day. How do we as believers continue to be salt, light and a city on hill in the midst of it all whilst at the same time taking responsibility for the freedoms God has entrusted us with? In this series, I'll try my best to get us thinking in a biblical direction.
In parts this final installment of a four series we began in May, our dear friend and LOTV partner Lee Dunfee goes deeper into the biblical principles of finance that have helped him and his family build God's kingdom and increase their options in life.
In parts three and four of a series we began in May, our dear friend and LOTV partner Lee Dunfee goes deeper into the biblical principles of finance that have helped him and his family build God's kingdom and increase their options in life.
Okay, maybe it's not "magic," but having margin in your life will make you more productive in the long run. In this series, we'll look at some diagnostics to see if we're leaving enough margin lives plus a few "margin makers" that will help us create and protect our boundaries.
Okay, maybe it's not "magic," but having margin in your life will make you more productive in the long run. In this series, we'll look at some diagnostics to see if we're leaving enough margin lives plus a few "margin makers" that will help us create and protect our boundaries.
Okay, maybe it's not "magic," but having margin in your life will make you more productive in the long run. In this series, we'll look at some diagnostics to see if we're leaving enough margin lives plus a few "margin makers" that will help us create and protect our boundaries.
If we manage well what God has entrusted to us, we will be entrusted with more. In this two part series, special guest Lee Dunfee shares what he has learned over the past few decades about work/life balance and faithful money management.
If we manage well what God has entrusted to us, we will be entrusted with more. In this two part series, special guest Lee Dunfee shares what he has learned over the past few decades about work/life balance and faithful money management.
Who doesn’t want to be promoted in life? We certainly don’t want to stagnate or be demoted. In this series, we’ll look at some biblical principles we can align ourselves with that will put us in a position to receive more blessing, favor, increase and responsibility. Specifically, we’ll look at the life of Barnabas to see some of the reasons he was chosen for promotion.
Who doesn’t want to be promoted in life? We certainly don’t want to stagnate or be demoted. In this series, we’ll look at some biblical principles we can align ourselves with that will put us in a position to receive more blessing, favor, increase and responsibility. Specifically, we’ll look at the life of Barnabas to see some of the reasons he was chosen for promotion.
If you want to make a difference with your idea, product of art - you're gonna need to be a bit rebellious.
Who doesn’t want to be promoted in life? We certainly don’t want to stagnate or be demoted. In this series, we’ll look at some biblical principles we can align ourselves with that will put us in a position to receive more blessing, favor, increase and responsibility. Specifically, we’ll look at the life of Barnabas to see some of the reasons he was chosen for promotion.
If you want to make a difference with your idea, product of art - you're gonna need to be a bit rebellious.
If you want to make a difference with your idea, product of art - you're gonna need to be a bit rebellious.
If you want to make a difference with your idea, product of art - you're gonna need to be a bit rebellious.
If you want to make a difference with your idea, product of art - you're gonna need to be a bit rebellious.
Make no mistake, there is a violent spiritual war taking place all around us every second of every day. Our adversary will do all he can to keep us from tapping into the power of God and living up to the potential God has put in each one us. In this series, we'll talk about the reality of spiritual warfare, knowing our foe, wearing our armor, using our weapons and winning more battles than we lose.
Make no mistake, there is a violent spiritual war taking place all around us every second of every day. Our adversary will do all he can to keep us from tapping into the power of God and living up to the potential God has put in each one us. In this series, we'll talk about the reality of spiritual warfare, knowing our foe, wearing our armor, using our weapons and winning more battles than we lose.
What people have to say about you, your business or your ministry is going to determine your outcomes.
Make no mistake, there is a violent spiritual war taking place all around us every second of every day. Our adversary will do all he can to keep us from tapping into the power of God and living up to the potential God has put in each one us. In this series, we'll talk about the reality of spiritual warfare, knowing our foe, wearing our armor, using our weapons and winning more battles than we lose.
Becoming a better communicator is something we should all aspire to. In this series, I'll be sharing keynotes from The Revolutionary Communicator by Jeff Medefind and Erik Lokkesmoe.
Becoming a better communicator is something we should all aspire to. In this series, I'll be sharing keynotes from The Revolutionary Communicator by Jeff Medefind and Erik Lokkesmoe.
Becoming a better communicator is something we should all aspire to. In this series, I'll be sharing keynotes from The Revolutionary Communicator by Jeff Medefind and Erik Lokkesmoe.
Make no mistake, there is a violent spiritual war taking place all around us every second of every day. Our adversary will do all he can to keep us from tapping into the power of God and living up to the potential God has put in each one us. In this series, we'll talk about the reality of spiritual warfare, knowing our foe, wearing our armor, using our weapons and winning more battles than we lose.
Becoming a better communicator is something we should all aspire to. In this series, I'll be sharing keynotes from The Revolutionary Communicator by Jeff Medefind and Erik Lokkesmoe.
Becoming a better communicator is something we should all aspire to. In this series, I'll be sharing keynotes from The Revolutionary Communicator by Jeff Medefind and Erik Lokkesmoe.
Becoming a better communicator is something we should all aspire to. In this series, I'll be sharing keynotes from The Revolutionary Communicator by Jeff Medefind and Erik Lokkesmoe.
Psalm 102:18 says, "Let this be recorded for a generation to come, so that a people yet unborn may praise the Lord." This series is about the importance of passing the faith and values that have guided our lives. We're asking two questions: "What needs to be passed on?" And, "How can we best do this?"
Psalm 102:18 says, "Let this be recorded for a generation to come, so that a people yet unborn may praise the Lord." This series is about the importance of passing the faith and values that have guided our lives. We're asking two questions: "What needs to be passed on?" And, "How can we best do this?"
Becoming a better communicator is something we should all aspire to. In this series, I'll be sharing keynotes from The Revolutionary Communicator by Jeff Medefind and Erik Lokkesmoe.
Psalm 102:18 says, "Let this be recorded for a generation to come, so that a people yet unborn may praise the Lord." This series is about the importance of passing on the faith and values that have guided our lives. We're asking two questions: "What specifically needs to be passed on?" And, "How can we best do this?"
What if the thing that's holding you back is all in your head? In this series, we'll be looking at some of the mind monsters that trip us up and keep us from being the best version of ourselves. We'll go on a hunting expedition intent on replacing those mindsets with thinking that will produce more and better.
What if the thing that's holding you back is all in your head? In this series, we'll be looking at some of the mind monsters that trip us up and keep us from being the best version of ourselves. We'll go on a hunting expedition intent on replacing those mindsets with thinking that will produce more and better.
What if the thing that's holding you back is all in your head? In this series, we'll be looking at some of the mind monsters that trip us up and keep us from being the best version of ourselves. We'll go on a hunting expedition intent on replacing those mindsets with thinking that will produce more and better.
Part 1 & 2 of this series deals primarily with plowing. In this episode, I share what we've discovered from our season of plowing and some ways to determine what harvest you hope to produce in 2024.
The Bible often offers lessons from the world of agriculture. Many of us have heard a lot about sowing and reaping. The fact is, plowing must come before the sowing. In Jeremiah, the people are told by the Lord to break up the "fallow" ground of their hearts. That means "tillable but untilled" parts of their hearts. Proverbs 20:4 says, "The sluggard will not plow in autumn, he will seek a harvest and have nothing." In this series, I'll share some insights on the science and art of plowing.
The Bible often offers lessons from the world of agriculture. Many of us have heard a lot about sowing and reaping. The fact is, plowing must come before the sowing. In Jeremiah, the people are told by the Lord to break up the "fallow" ground of their hearts. That means "tillable but untilled" parts of their hearts. Proverbs 20:4 says, "The sluggard will not plow in autumn, he will seek a harvest and have nothing." In this series, I'll share some insights on the science and art of plowing.
Anxiety and worry are symptoms of a divided heart. How we respond to the battle between fear and faith can determine our destiny. Paul said, "Be anxious for nothing..." That can be easier said than done, but we can do it!
Anxiety and worry are symptoms of a divided heart. How we respond to the battle between fear and faith can determine our destiny. Paul said, "Be anxious for nothing..." That can be easier said than done, but we can do it!
Anxiety and worry are symptoms of a divided heart. How we respond to the battle between fear and faith can determine our destiny. Paul said, "Be anxious for nothing..." That can be easier said than done, but we can do it!
The "fear of missing out" is a very real phenomenon that can cause anxiety and depression. The worst kind of "FOMO" is fearing that you're missing out on God's specific plan for your life. This can lead to a lifelong wild goose chase of trying to figure out that special person, place or thing that will make us blessed and successful. What if God's plan is that you belong to him and the rest is up to our imagination?
The "fear of missing out" is a very real phenomenon that can cause anxiety and depression. The worst kind of "FOMO" is fearing that you're missing out on God's specific plan for your life. This can lead to a lifelong wild goose chase of trying to figure out that special person, place or thing that will make us blessed and successful. What if God's plan is that you belong to him and the rest is up to our imagination?
The "fear of missing out" is a very real phenomenon that can cause anxiety and depression. The worst kind of "FOMO" is fearing that you're missing out on God's specific plan for your life. This can lead to a lifelong wild goose chase of trying to figure out that special person, place or thing that will make us blessed and successful. What if God's plan is that you belong to him and the rest is up to our imagination?
Change is inevitable. It's been said that the only constant in life is change. Yet, the older we get, the more can grow resistant to change. Hopefully, this series will help us see the necessity of being open to change and some ways to overcome the opposition to change. Episode three and four will offer insights into implementing and facilitating change.
Change is inevitable. It's been said that the only constant in life is change. Yet, the older we get, the more can grow resistant to change. Hopefully, this series will help us see the necessity of being open to change and some ways to overcome the opposition to change. The final episode will offer some way to implement and facilitate change.
Change is inevitable. It's been said that the only constant in life is change. Yet, the older we get, the more can grow resistant to change. Hopefully, this series will help us see the necessity of being open to change and some ways to overcome the opposition to change. The final episode will offer some way to implement and facilitate change.
Change is inevitable. It's been said that the only constant in life is change. Yet, the older we get, the more can grow resistant to change. Hopefully, this series will help us see the necessity of being open to change and some ways to overcome the opposition to change. The final episode will offer some way to implement and facilitate change.
Most of us have come close to a collision on the highways and byways because we didn't see someone in our blindspot. Despite mirrors and even cameras on our vehicles today, we still have places we can't see. Those blindspots can lead to horrible crashes. The same is true of our lives. There are areas we can't see - thinking patterns and behaviors that may be limiting us. In this three part series we take a lookat ways of seeingthe blindspots that hold us back.
Most of us have come close to a collision on the highways and byways because we didn't see someone in our blindspot. Despite mirrors and even cameras on our vehicles today, we still have places we can't see. Those blindspots can lead to horrible crashes. The same is true of our lives. There are areas we can't see - thinking patterns and behaviors that may be limiting us. In this three part series we take a lookat ways of seeingthe blindspots that hold us back.
Most of us have come close to a collision on the highways and byways because we didn't see someone in our blindspot. Despite mirrors and even cameras on our vehicles today, we still have places we can't see. Those blindspots can lead to horrible crashes. The same is true of our lives. There are areas we can't see - thinking patterns and behaviors that may be limiting us. In this three part series we take a look at ways of seeing the blindspots that hold us back.
It’s all in your head! Well, not entirely. It starts in your spirit. Our walk with Jesus requires a cooperative effort to “make up our mind” if we are to enjoy the abundant life He promised.
It’s all in your head! Well, not entirely. It starts in your spirit. Our walk with Jesus requires a cooperative effort to “make up our mind” if we are to enjoy the abundant life He promised.
It’s all in your head! Well, not entirely. It starts in your spirit. Our walk with Jesus requires a cooperative effort to “make up our mind” if we are to enjoy the abundant life He promised.
How you define MORE depends on the person. It could be MORE love, MORE peace, MORE purpose, MORE joy, MORE money, etc. Most us don't want to go
backwards nor stagnate. The Bible says, "The path of the righteous winds upward." We cannot ultimately find ABUNDANT LIFE without the One who made the promise for it. In this series, we'll take an overtly biblical look at keys to finding MORE in life.
How you define MORE depends on the person. It could be MORE love, MORE peace, MORE purpose, MORE joy, MORE money, etc. Most us don't want to go backwards nor stagnate. The Bible says, "The path of the righteous winds upward." We cannot ultimately find ABUNDANT LIFE without the One who made the promise for it. In this series, we'll take an overtly biblical look at keys to finding MORE in life.
How you define MORE depends on the person. It could be MORE love, MORE peace, MORE purpose, MORE joy, MORE money, etc. Most us don't want to go backwards nor stagnate. The Bible says, "The path of the righteous winds upward." We cannot ultimately find ABUNDANT LIFE without the One who made the promise for it. In this series, we'll take an overtly biblical look at keys to finding MORE in life.
We all suffer setbacks in life. Sometimes there are practical reasons we go through seasons of darkness. Sometimes it's spiritual. How do we come back stronger?
We all suffer setbacks in life. Sometimes there are practical reasons we go through seasons of darkness. Sometimes it's spiritual. How do we come back stronger?
We all suffer setbacks in life. Sometimes there are practical reasons we go through seasons of darkness. Sometimes it's spiritual. How do we come back stronger?
We're all selling something - whether it's a chicken sandwich, a widget or an idea. Webster's 1828 dictionary defines the word sale as simply to deliver or cause to pass from one person to another. What is it that you're trying to sell (pass on to others)? More importantly, why? How do we find deeper meaning in offering our goods or services to others? We know money is a shallow motive. Let's go deeper.
We're all selling something - whether it's a chicken sandwich, a widget or an idea. Webster's 1828 dictionary defines the word sale as simply to deliver or cause to pass from one person to another. What is it that you're trying to sell (pass on to others)? More importantly, why? How do we find deeper meaning in offering our goods or services to others? We know money is a shallow motive. Let's go deeper.
"Every Christian must be part artist. We craft lives of meaning through faith. And this means reaching out to engage those who differ while never losing an appreciation for what sets us apart." - Father Andrew of Athos 2014.
As children of God, we have creativity in our DNA. Our creativity endeavors are a way of reaching across time and culture - even after we die. In this series talk about "Ten Commandments of Creativity."
"Every Christian must be part artist. We craft lives of meaning through faith. And this means reaching out to engage those who differ while never losing an appreciation for what sets us apart." - Father Andrew of Athos 2014.
As children of God, we have creativity in our DNA. Our creativity endeavors are a way of reaching across time and culture - even after we die. In this series talk about "Ten Commandments of Creativity."
"Every Christian must be part artist. We craft lives of meaning through faith. And this means reaching out to engage those who differ while never losing an appreciation for what sets us apart." - Father Andrew of Athos 2014.
As children of God, we have creativity in our DNA. Our creativity endeavors are a way of reaching across time and culture - even after we die. In this series talk about "Ten Commandments of Creativity."
"Every Christian must be part artist. We craft lives of meaning through faith. And this means reaching out to engage those who differ while never losing an appreciation for what sets us apart." - Father Andrew of Athos 2014.
As children of God, we have creativity in our DNA. Our creativity endeavors are a way of reaching across time and culture - even after we die. In this series talk about "Ten Commandments of Creativity."
THE QUESTION we often ask is along the lines of "What is God's will for my life?" Or, "What is God's plan for me?" Sometimes what we want is perfect clarity concerning the future. We don't always get that, but the Bible tells us plenty about God's will for our lives.
THE QUESTION we often ask is along the lines of "What is God's will for my life?" Or, "What is God's plan for me?" Sometimes what we want is perfect clarity concerning the future. We don't always get that, but the Bible tells us plenty about God's will for our lives.
There is one question I've been asked more than most during my time as a minister. It comes in various forms and there is more than one answer. Furthermore, the answers may be different during different season of life. You'll have to listen to at least this first podcast to hear the question. Then, I'd love to hear how you would answer the question.
We're all amatuer at some things (like spelling), I mean amateur:). There are things we do just for the fun of it. Those are called hobbies. Becoming a pro at something brings increase in finances, influence and fruitfulness. We should all seek to excel at something - to be remarkable, to be a pro.
We're all amatuer at some things (like spelling), I mean amateur:). There are things we do just for the fun of it. Those are called hobbies. Becoming a pro at something brings increase in finances, influence and fruitfulness. We should all seek to excel at something - to be remarkable, to be a pro.
John Quincy Adams said, “If your actions inspire others to dream more, do more and become more, you are a leader.”
As believers we are called to be leaders, leaders of positive change. To lead well, we will need to navigate the seasons of life in a way that inspires others. In this series, we invite you to walk with us through a change of seasons that we hope will inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more.
John Quincy Adams said, “If your actions inspire others to dream more, do more and become more, you are a leader.”
As believers we are called to be leaders, leaders of positive change. To lead well, we will need to navigate the seasons of life in a way that inspires others. In this series, we invite you to walk with us through a change of seasons that we hope will inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more.
John Quincy Adams said, “If your actions inspire others to dream more, do more and become more, you are a leader.”
As believers we are called to be leaders, leaders of positive change. To lead well, we will need to navigate the seasons of life in a way that inspires others. In this series, we invite you to walk with us through a change of seasons that we hope will inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more.
We all want to see miracles right? Who doesn't want to see God doing supernatural things in our life? I've always been a person that wants to get to the root of things - like blues being the root of rock and roll. So, what's at the root of seeing miraculous breakthroughs? What will give us peace, joy and freedom from fear? What's the secret? Actually, it's not a secret at all if we look closely enough.
We all want to see miracles right? Who doesn't want to see God doing supernatural things in our life? I've always been a person that wants to get to the root of things - like blues being the root of rock and roll. So, what's at the root of seeing miraculous breakthroughs? What will give us peace, joy and freedom from fear? What's the secret? Actually, it's not a secret at all if we look closely enough.
We all want to see miracles right? Who doesn't want to see God doing supernatural things in our life? I've always been a person that wants to get to the root of things - like blues being the root of rock and roll. So, what's at the root of seeing miraculous breakthroughs? What will give us peace, joy and freedom from fear? What's the secret? Actually, it's not a secret at all if we look closely enough.
Sometimes bad moods can be brought on by frustrating circumstances that we can do something about. Things like conflict, failure, bad habits, etc. have a remedy in this life. But there is a frustration we have to learn to live with. That is the fact that we are in this world, but not of it. While we can catch glimpses of heaven in this life, we will never truly experience total peace and fulfillment in the here-and-now. This podcast is about learning to live life abundantly in spite of that frustration.
Bad moods can roll into bad seasons which results in wasted potential and productivity. Some things that cause bad moods are unavoidable, but there are things we can do to head most day-to-day bad moods before they ruin our day, week, etc.. In this episode, we'll talk about antidotes for a bad mood - things we can do to shift a bad mood before it gains too much ground.
A bad mood can ruin our day. A bad mood can ruin a week, a month, a year and even a life. We all find ourselves in a funk once in a while. How do we shift gears when a bad mood threatens to keep us in neutral or worse yet reverse? This episode takes us back to the basics, but sometimes we need that .
Life really is a juggle - and none of like to drop a ball. The fact is, we will let people down. We will let ourselves down. In retrospect, this series should have been called "Managing the Juggle." We may never master the complexities of family, work, etc. - but we can become even more effective managers.
Life really is a juggle - and none of like to drop a ball. The fact is, we will let people down. We will let ourselves down. In retrospect, this series should have been called "Managing the Juggle." We may never master the complexities of family, work, etc. - but we can become even more effective managers.
Life really is a juggle - and none of like to drop a ball. The fact is, we will let people down. We will let ourselves down. In retrospect, this series should have been called "Managing the Juggle." We may never master the complexities of family, work, etc. - but we can become even more effective managers.
Finally, I'm back after 18 prison events over the past six-weeks. In this episode, we'll finish up the series by talking about one of our adversary's most effective weapons at keeping us from doing all God has planned for us to do - and how to overcome it.
Fear, anxiety and worry can rob us of our true identity and potential in Christ. When we remind ourselves that we are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation and God's special possession we can go after the things God has given us to do in life with a sweet abandon. Conversely, if we feed our fears we will fail to take the necessary risk to achieve our God-given potential.
Life has a way of branding us with negative labels and titles. If we ultimately identify with anything or anyone other than Christ, we are bound to wrestle with self-defeating thoughts of inadequacy that keep us from doing our best work in life. Martin Luther called our vocation "a mask of God." When we remind ourselves who we really are in Christ, we come to see everything else is just a clever disguise.
This episode covers a recap of the series as well as a specifically Christian approach to creative endeavors and our attitude toward outcomes.
This is a continuation of the Risk of Art series published a few months ago. This episodes is about the traps that keep us from shipping our creative ideas.
This is a continuation of the Risk of Art series published a few months ago. We'll talk the payoffs & obstacles for choosing to use the creativity we all inherit from the Master Creator.
"Wisdom is the principal thing..." Pro. 2:7 In this series, we'll take a look at few wisdom nuggets from scripture that will help gain a heart of understanding. Wisdom is all about decisions - choosing the best means to a worthy end.
Wisdom answers the question, "What's important now?" We all want to do life well, to spend our time wisely. In this series we'll be digging into the Proverbs so we can grow together in wisdom.
We are called to be "steadfast, immovable in the work of the Lord." What is the work of the Lord? It's anything and everything we do to demonstrate our love for Him and others. Stay steadfast at what God has put before you but fervently pursue new goals!
Paul told the believers in Corinth to stay "steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord." The work of the Lord is anything you do for His glory. We cannot underestimate the power of Satan and his efforts to steal, kill and destroy our potential.
Dreaming of better days and going after those dreams is important, but faithfulness to the task at hand is even more important. We are called to be "steadfast, immovable in the work of the Lord." What is the work of the Lord? It's anything and everything we do to demonstrate our love for Him and others. Lean into the day! Stay steadfast at what God has put before you.
Do a search on Amazon and you'll find a million books on developing self-confidence. We definitely need self-confidence and some of those books can be tremendously helpful. That said, it's important to understand that throughout our lives we will have seasons where we lose self-confidence. That's why it's important to have confidence in someone far greater than self. In this episode, we'll talk developing healthy about self-confidence.
Do a search on Amazon and you'll find a million books on developing self-confidence. We definitely need self-confidence and some of those books can be tremendously helpful. That said, it's important to understand that throughout our lives we will have seasons where we lose self-confidence. That's why it's important to have confidence in someone far greater than self. In part two, we'll talk about self-confidence, but first let's make sure we have confidence in the One who is strong when we are weak.
This is the last in a four-part series aimed at helping us discover why God created us, why He chose to save us and what we should be doing while we're still here. This episode begins with the deeper spiritual aspirations we as believers should possess but then goes on to address how we apply that to the practical world through the work of our hands.
As believers, we know that we should glorify God in all we do. We should be producing the fruit of the Spirit. We should be doing good deeds. We should be "...declaring the praises of Him who called us out of darkness and into his wonderful light." How we "declare, proclaim or publish" who God is and what He has done is different for each of us. Hopefully, this episode will help you in your journey to maximum impact for God's glory.
Martin Luther called our vocation "the mask of God." We all do different things in life. We all have different goals, dreams and vocations. But these earthly things don't really define who we really are and why we are still here. In this episode we'll dig deeper into defining our ultimate identity and aspirations.
1 Peter 2:9
But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.
We know that we are here to glorify God, but what are the deep vocational aspirations that drive us? Why work hard? Why try to be successful? Why? Why? Why? In this series, we'll go on a journey together to try bring definition to our deeper motives and aspirations so we can better set goals in the new year.
Proverbs 25:2 says, "It is the glory of God to conceal a matter; to search out a matter is the glory of kings." What's in you that hasn't been discovered yet? The Apostle Paul said, "We have this treasure in jars of clay." He wasn't just talking about the salvation of our souls - but everything that comes with being ingrafted into the family of God. What can we do to discover and unpack the birthrights God has concealed in us?
"Be kind; everyone is fighting a hard battle," is a popular quote. It's a terrible thing that so many view the Church as anything but kind. There is more to people, there is more to you, that what is visible. Despite political, religious or lifestyle differences we are called to be kind. We don't have to agree to be kind. But we must be kind. Our Father commands it because He is kind. "It is His kindness that leads us to repentance," (Romans 2:4). "He does not treat us as our sins deserve or repay us according to our iniquities," (Psalm 103:10). Conversely, "... God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us, " (Romans 5:8).
The choices we make in life - micro and macro - determine the quality of our experience. Right voices = right choices = better outcomes. In this episode, I hope to be a voice that helps you make better choices. We'll talk about paths to making better decisions.
Consistency is intensity! Constant effort in a single direction + time = progress. We should want to advance in life. Where we go the kingdom goes. The Bible makes clear that "diligent hands rule but laziness ends in forced labor." This podcast offers five way we can grow in the area of diligence - and thus prosper in life!
Throughout life we always be on a quest to break bad habits and develop new ones. This episode offers four ways to develop life giving habits through DISCIPLINE.
Our world needs kingdom carrying creators more than ever. Do you have ideas, dreams, a point of view that you avoid pursuing for fear of failure? There is always a risk associated with reward bearing creativity. In this series we’ll talk about navigating that risk.
Our world needs kingdom carrying creators more than ever. Do you have ideas, dreams, a point of view that you avoid pursuing for fear of failure? There is always a risk associated with reward bearing creativity. In this series we’ll talk about navigating that risk.
Our world needs kingdom carrying creators more than ever. Do you have ideas, dreams, a point of view that you avoid pursuing for fear of failure? There is always a risk associated with reward bearing creativity. In this series we’ll talk about navigating that risk.
We are called to create. That takes work. The Bible clearly teaches us to work hard - to hustle. At the same time, we have to demonstrate our trust in God. Jesus said, "apart from me you can do nothing." How do we balance that tension?
We are called to create. That takes work. The Bible clearly teaches us to work hard - to hustle. At the same time, we have to demonstrate our trust in God. Jesus said, "apart from me you can do nothing." How do we balance that tension?
If you're feeling weak, unmotivated or depressed, it could be that your "joy quotient" is low. That's bad news because the joy of the Lord is our strength. We all lose our joy from time to time. Maybe this will help with the rescue effort.
If you're feeling weak, unmotivated or depressed, it could be that your "joy quotient" is low. That's bad news because the joy of the Lord is our strength. We all lose our joy from time to time. Maybe this will help with the rescue effort.
If you're feeling weak, unmotivated or depressed, it could be that your "joy quotient" is low. That's bad news because the joy of the Lord is our strength. We all lose our joy from time to time. Maybe this will help with the rescue effort.
Shots are definitely being fired in our society - not just literally referring to the recent rise in gun violence - but also ideologically. How do we respond to the chaos in our culture? How do return fire (NOT LITERALLY!)? Here's some ideas.
Shots are definitely being fired in our society - not just literally referring to the recent rise in gun violence - but also ideologically. How do we respond to the chaos in our culture? How do return fire (NOT LITERALLY!)? Here's some ideas.
Shots are definitely being fired in our society - not just literally referring to the recent rise in gun violence - but also ideologically. How do we respond to the chaos in our culture? How do return fire (NOT LITERALLY!)? Here's some ideas.
"The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love." Gal. 5:6. Faith is the antidote for doubt. If faith could talk what would is say? How do we go from little faith to great faith?
There is a difference between excellence and perfect. We should all strive for excellence, but perfectionism will block you from shipping your ideas to the world.
You have a vision, a dream, a goal to accomplished the works God prepared in advance for you do (Eph. 2:10)....you're enemy knows the impact you will have and he will do everything he can to thwart you. Too often, we find ourselves siding with him and giving in to his temptations. This sets off a cycle of guilt and condemnation for the believer that can be a roadblock that stops you in your tracks. Let's bust through this roadblock and get on down the road of God's purposes!
Is it okay to make a name for yourself?
How do we differentiate selfish ambition from godly ambition?
The Apostle Paul made a pretty big deal about his ministry. He talked about himself a lot in the Epistles. He used his experiences, his suffering and even his work ethic as qualifiers for why he was worthy to be listened to. He instructed the Galatians,
"It is fine to be zealous, provided the purpose is good..." Gal. 4:18
The ESV says, "It is always good to be made much of for a good purpose."
There is a fine line between healthy zeal or passion and false humility. In this series, we try to make that line clearer.
Is it okay to make a name for yourself?
How do we differentiate selfish ambition from godly ambition?
The Apostle Paul made a pretty big deal about his ministry. He talked about himself a lot in the Epistles. He used his experiences, his suffering and even his work ethic as qualifiers for why he was worthy to be listened to. He instructed the Galatians,
"It is fine to be zealous, provided the purpose is good..." Gal. 4:18
The ESV says, "It is always good to be made much of for a good purpose."
There is a fine line between healthy zeal or passion and false humility. In this series, we try to make that line clearer.
Is it okay to make a name for yourself?
How do we differentiate selfish ambition from godly ambition?
The Apostle Paul made a pretty big deal about his ministry. He talked about himself a lot in the Epistles. He used his experiences, his suffering and even his work ethic as qualifiers for why he was worthy to be listened to. He instructed the Galatians,
"It is fine to be zealous, provided the purpose is good..." Gal. 4:18
The ESV says, "It is always good to be made much of for a good purpose."
There is a fine line between healthy zeal or passion and false humility. In this series, we try to make that line clearer.
To be successful in our endeavors it is vital that we build more bridges than we burn. This episode emphasizes six principles that will help us become better bridge builders.
Our goal in life should be to expand our influence. Therefore, we need to be about bridge-building not bridge-burning. Communication is key. We communicate with word, deed and gesture. If we want to win friends and influence people it's vital that we never stop improving our communication skills. It's not just what we say, it's how we say it. We can still speak truth, but do so with grace.
We find the blessing and favor of God on our endeavors when we make His priority our priority. His priority is that "none should perish but all come to repentance." He was so determined to accomplish this that He sent His only son to make a way for us to have fellowship with Him. How do we share this good news with others (especially to a world that may be hostile toward Christianity)? How do we speak easy but also speak truth to an unbelieving world? How do build bridges and not burn them? Here's my take.
We find the blessing and favor of God on our endeavors when we make His priority our priority. His priority is that "none should perish but all come to repentance." He was so determined to accomplish this that He sent His only son to make a way for us to have fellowship with Him. How do we share this good news with others (especially to a world that may be hostile toward Christianity)? How do we speak easy but also speak truth to an unbelieving world? How do build bridges and not burn them? Here's my take.
In the blockbuster movie The Matrix - "the matrix" was a simulated reality. Have you ever felt like there must be something behind the curtain in life? Well, of course there is! Eternity! We are all guaranteed a day when we'll get to see behind that curtain. But for now, it's as if we're living in a matrix called time. How do we maximize our time in the matrix? In the next three podcasts I'll offer some insights that will hopefully help us to do just that.
In the blockbuster movie The Matrix - "the matrix" was a simulated reality. Have you ever felt like there must be something behind the curtain in life? Well, of course there is! Eternity! We are all guaranteed a day when we'll get to see behind that curtain. But for now, it's as if we're living in a matrix called time. How do we maximize our time in the matrix? In this podcast, I'll offer insights into living in the present.
In the blockbuster movie The Matrix - "the matrix" was a simulated reality. Have you ever felt like there must be something behind the curtain in life? Well, of course there is! Eternity! We are all guaranteed a day when we'll get to see behind that curtain. But for now, it's as if we're living in a matrix called time. How do we maximize our time in the matrix? In the next three podcasts I'll offer some insights that will hopefully help us to do just that.
Winston Churchill said, ““You will never reach your destination if you stop and throw stones at every dog that barks.” God has called us to be industrious people – living with vision and focus, using our potential to bring Him glory. We are not saved by good works but we are saved for good works. There is great joy in seeing God use us as we step out in faith to do good works. Staying busy for the Lord will definitely break you out of the blues box!
We all get the blues but we don't have to let the blues get us. In this episode we address the need to stay full - so that when the trials come, we have something to fight back with.
Jude
20But you, beloved, building yourselves up in your most holy faith and praying in the Holy Spirit, 21keep yourselves in the love of God, waiting for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ that leads to eternal life
We all get the blues. The Bible is full of folks dealing with the blues. Some have called King David the “Father of the Blues” because his Psalms often reflect his seasons of fear, doubt and depression. It’s a normal thing to get the blues in this life. But we don’t have to let the blues get us. In this episode, I begin a series on our theme for the new year. I think these concepts will help us break out of the blues that are sure to show up in 2021. Hopefully, this will help you too!
We will never do anything significant in life without risk. You can't even drive to work without taking a risk. There is no guarantee that you will arrive safely - but you have weighed that risk and made the decision that the risk was worth taking. We will never accomplish our vision or dreams without risk. Risk is a part of the equation. That said, there are biblical steps we can take to determine if and when a risk is worth taking.
There is legitimate spiritual opposition to advancing the kingdom of God on earth, but there are also obstacles that are simply common to man. This podcast addresses a few of the obstacles we have encountered in pursuing our vision. There's a pretty good chance you have faced or you will face some of these same obstacles.
God's gift to us is our potential. What we do with that potential is our gift to Him. What a tragedy to not accomplish the things He prepared for us to do. Vision is the vehicle by which we dream and achieve our potential. To have a dream or a vision is one thing - to see it fulfilled requires focus and faith. Zig Ziglar said, "“I don’t care how much power, brilliance or energy you have, if you don’t harness it and focus it on a specific target, and hold it there you’re never going to accomplish as much as your ability warrants.” In this episode, I share four things that help me keep my focus on the dream.
How do we take a vision or a dream from infancy to fruition? In this episode, I share a little of our journey and discuss some biblical keys that are applicable to taking a dream from what "could be" to what "should be" to what "must be!" All of us will have different experiences but all of us will still need to adhere to the same principles.
How do we get a "vision?" As American's we have so many options. How do we get a mental picture for the things that line up with our God-given gifts, abilities and desires? In this podcast, we talk about three ways to see what God sees.
Why should we live with vision? Why did God give us an imagination and the ability to create? This podcast speaks to the underlying motives for why we should be pursuing a passion-producing vision in the first place. Man's Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankle scratches the surface when it comes to answering these deep questions we all ask, but what does the Bible say?
George Mueller said,
"Faith does not operate in the realm of the possible. There is no glory for God in that which is humanly possible. Faith begins where man's power ends." This video series will help you pursue God's purpose for your life by using the power of vision.
What good father doesn't want his children to thrive? God's will for your life is to THRIVE which means toflourish, grow vigorously and prosper! During the summer of 2019, I wrote a book about the thriving through the power of vision. Now, we're creating a video series based on the book. These videos will be sent to prisons across the country but I they're for you too! Watch part 1 of the video series here.You can download the book at www.lifeontheverge.com or find it on Amazon Thrival Mode: Using the Power of Vision to Ignite Your Passion for Living.
What a chaotic time to be alive right? Yes but....what an awesome time to be alive IF we are applying our time, talent and treasure to the right things. As believers we should not get too entangled with the things of this world. We should be investing in the one thing Hell will never prevail against - the Church. This is a brief look at the gifts God graces us with for that very purpose.
Fear of sinking keeps many if not most people from getting out of the boat. Without risk we limit our potential. We have to believe that even if we fail, "All hard work brings a profit...." Pro. 14:23. Even if we sink in the sea of risk, God will extend His hand and not only rescue us but also use our failures to prosper us.
The god of this world is always trying to steal, kill and destroy our hope. Without hope we cannot live by faith and project the love of God. Sometimes we need to run to the mighty fortress of our God to have our hope restored. Psalm 91:2 says, I will say to the LORD, “You are my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.” Link to Your Stay lyric video:
This series is based on our new song Your Stay. Check it out here.
In Psalm 40, David tells about a place we are bound to find ourselves: THE PIT.
Psalm 40
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I waited patiently for the Lord; he turned to me and heard my cry.
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He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand.
The good news is that God redeems us from the pits of life. He is indeed our Rock!
Some pressures in life are unavoidable, but then there are those pressures we experience from poor choices. One of grand tasks of life is to choose pressures that offer a promise of progress. We only have so much time allotted to us in life. The Bible tells us, "Teach us to number our days aright O, Lord that we may gain a heart of wisdom." Ps. 90:12 In this episode, I talk about how to choose the best investments for our time, talents and treasure.
The writer of Hebrews said, "But we do not belong to those who shrink back and are destroyed..." Despite the messy world we live in, now more than ever we need to be pressing in to our kingdom advancing ideas. That takes commitment - getting out of the boat! In this episode we address the benefits of commitment and present two questions we should be asking right now.
Lets face it - life is foggy....very foggy. In our search for meaning, validation and certainty, we can lose our way. In this episode we talk about how important is to take the next step in our vision regardless of discouragement, uncertainty, distractions and the fog. If we spend ourselves on the right things, God's blessing is sure to follow.
"I wonder - how many situations that we would call disappointments, hassles, and setbacks might actually be the loving hand of God trying to slow us down for the sake of our souls, and so that we might receive him?" - John Eldredge, Get Your Life Back, Everyday Practices for a World Gone Mad.
Most of life is spent in the gaps - or the transitions. Our world is currently in a massive transition between pre and post COVID-19. But we also experience all sorts of gaps personally throughout our time on earth. What do we do with these gaps - this time between where we are and where we're trying to arrive? Are we wasting away precious time on trivial things? Even the small gaps like waiting in line or sitting in traffic. Are we so enslaved to technology that we've lost intimacy with God? "My sheep know my voice..." Jesus said. When was the last time you heard his voice?
Proverbs 20:4 tells us that a "sluggard does not plow in autumn, he will seek a harvest and have nothing." It's so important that we don't waste life's most precious commodity - TIME. So what time it is? What season are you in? What should you be devoting your efforts to. It's hard to answer that without understanding your reason for being - your purpose. In this episode we look at some biblical ways to discover who God created you to be and the contribution he created you to make.
The word "vocation" comes from the Latin meaning "calling." We all have different callings in different seasons of life. This episode specifically addresses one's career or job. If you aren't finding joy in the work of your hands perhaps you're out of tune. It's important to be faithful where you are but God also gives us permission to dream....and with God all things are possible.
The older we get, the more isolated we can become. Proverbs 18:1 says, "Whoever isolates himself seeks his own desire; he breaks out against all sound judgment." When we don't take proactive steps to establish new friendships and maintain old friendships, we rob ourselves of many blessings. Yes, friendship is risky business, but in the words of Garth Brooks, "I could have missed the pain, but I'd have to miss the dance." In other words, the dance is worth it.
The Bible talks a whole lot about money. Jesus said, "Where you're treasure is, there your heart will be also." Matthew 6:21. Generosity is our greatest weapon against greed which ultimately leads to a life of dissatisfaction. God wants us to live a satisfied life interdependent on one another. While generosity doesn't just mean giving money - finance is a huge test of the heart. Don't work to supply your needs. God's got that covered. Work so that you have something to share with others. "A generous person will prosper, those that refresh others will themselves be refreshed." Proverbs 11:25
"No son lives until his father dies." That's a scary quote I heard a few months ago. The thought being that our kids never really feel free until they are released of their parent's expectations. I texted my son right away and said, "Dude, you go do you!" I'm no James Dobson but Suzan and I have managed to raise three now-grown rock stars that still enjoy spending time with us. I'm sure in 35 minutes of rambling this podcast will at least get you paying attention to your tuning when it comes to family.
This is part two of a six-part series titled Living Life in Tune. Much like the strings on a guitar, we live life under tension. If we're playing hard, we will go out of tune. This episode is about keeping our fitness in tune. Our bodies are the temple of the Holy Spirit. If we take care of our bodies we enjoy many benefits. In the episode, I'll talk about 7 Keys and 7 benefits to keeping our fitness in tune. (DISCLAIMER: I am not a doctor, a fitness expert or any thing of the sort - just a guy who has to fight hard to stay in tune physically).
Much like the strings on a guitar, we live life under tension. If we're playing hard, we will go out of tune. This episode is about keeping our faith in tune.
Proverbs 28:1 says, "The wicked flee when no one pursues them but the righteous are bold as a lion." Think about that? Lions don't struggle with insecurity, fear or an identity crisis. Lions also spend their time with other lions. In the episode we talk about how to stay inspired by choosing the right pride.
"Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life." Proverbs 13:12
Sometimes hope gets "put off" because it's misaligned. Our goal in life should be to grow into our potential and what we hope for (or desire) is key to whether that happens of not. How can we find the right place to put our hope? How can we use that hope to maximize our potential?
Mark Cuban (Dallas Mavericks, Shark Tank host, entrepreneur) recently talked about how great businesses will be born out this time of adversity. Now more than ever we need to be taking steps of faith toward our hopes & dreams. We want those steps to be blessed by God don't we? In this podcast I talk about making the kind of steps mentioned in Psalm 37:23-24:
The steps of a man are established by the Lord,
when he delights in his way;
though he fall, he shall not be cast headlong,
for the Lord upholds his hand.
I totally ripped that title off from Jon Acuff - check him out www.acuff.me.
Jesus said, "I have compassion on the crowd...." Matthew 15:32 What a great time to let your light shine. We all have something to offer to Christ for the sake of others. It's in time like these that the size of our faith and the size of our heart is truly revealed.
Do you have needs right now? Of course you do! And you need people to help you. Whether that means money, advice, encouragement, a job, etc., you and I need people to have "big eyes" toward us. Therefore, we need to have "big eyes" toward those we can help. Biblical principles hold true in every season.
In his book Mere Christianity C.S. Lewis referred to spreading the gospel like a "good infection." In the face of this very bad infection, let's be intent on spreading the good infection! Problem present possibilities! Obstacles create opportunities! God's stock market is not crashing. He still has all we need to accomplish what He would have us do in this moment!
These are crazy days but we are not powerless. No, in all these things we are more than conquerors. We do not have to hunker down with a survivalist mentality. As a matter of fact, this is the time to look for possibilities in the problems and opportunities in the obstacles!
Proverbs 17:22 says, "A cheerful heart is good medicine but a broken spirit dries up the bones." All dream chasers experience highs and lows on the journey to success. Because we love what we do, there's an even greater risk of burnout - because we're always doing. Over time, even the highs can become mundane and monotonous. If we don't take intentional steps to avoid burnout, we can lose the joy in the journey. In this episode we talk about the need to separate to regenerate.
One of the greatest gifts we can give is the gift of inspiration. When you win against all odds, you inspire others by proving it can be done! That's how we spread our impact and influence far beyond our own dreams and goals. David killed Goliath and it wasn't long before everybody was killing giants!
Jim Rohn said, "If you think you know all the answers, you better ask different questions." Finding the right answers starts with asking the right questions. One of the most profound questions we can ask is "Who am I and why am I here?" Many spend their whole lives in an identity crisis. Something inside tells them, "There must be more to life than this." In this episode, we share the secret to discovering who you are and what God made you for.
In his book, The Dip: A Little Book to Teach You When to Quit (and when to stick!) Seth Godin says, "The key to quitting successfully is quitting the right things at the right time." Vocational transitions can be stressful. In this episode, we share two more thoughts on how to quit well.
"Winners never quit and quitters never win" isn't exactly true. There is a time for everything under heaven ....even quitting. Suzan joins me in this episode as we share some thoughts on when to make the bold decision to quit.
If you hope to give birth to a worthwhile dream, it might hurt a little bit. Alas, Suzan joins me for this episode where we talk about some of the initial challenges in launching Life on the Verge. We also share a very obscure promise of God that encouraged us as we went stepped into our vision. We end with two tips to helped you in the pursuit of your dream!
Most of us at some point in life wish we were doing a different kind of work. We think if we could just find the right work then we'd be joyful. In this episode we talk about why this is a bad plan.
Hello sinners. In this episode we talk about how to keep condemnation from paralyzing your potential.
Starting with the premise that you are pursuing a passion-producing vision, this episode warns against two things that will leave you in the wilderness or worse yet completely kill your dreams.
Vince Lombardi is famous for saying, "Winning isn't everything, it's the only thing." We all want to win but oddly enough victory doesn't come by focusing on winning. In this episode, we pay tribute to Kobe "Black Mamba" Bryant and examine one effective mindset of the elite athlete. We talk about ways we can apply that mindset to every endeavor.
Are you stuck? Still not sure what you want to be when you grow up? The solution is closer than you think but it's gonna take a soul search & rescue mission to find it.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Most of us want to make a difference in life. We already matter to God, but how can we matter more to others?
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
"What do you want in life?" can be a tough question to answer. In this episode we'll break that question into three separate questions that will help you better define what you're after in life.
One of many biblical principles that bring promotion plus four words you should never ever say if you expect to advance in life.