Faith Matters Podcast

God has a purpose behind every problem. Everything that happens to you has spiritual significance. Remember that God's plan is good, rejoice and give thanks and refuse to give up. "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." Romans 8;28

5 Days to Slay Your Dragon by Daniel Kolenda on YouVersion read by Brian and Andi Hale Admit you have a dragon, don't ignore it! Unless you become honest about your problems, there will never be a solution.

5 Days to Slay Your Dragon by Daniel Kolenda on YouVersion read by Brian and Andi Hale Most of the dragons that threaten us are ones we have incubated, nurtured, and raised in our own hearts. Lust, pride, greed, selfishness in all its forms, hatred, the abandonment of responsibility, lack of self-discipline—these are the kind of dragons that usually destroy us.

God wants you to grow up. His goal for you is to mature and develop the characteristics of Jesus. Discipleship always begins with a decision. We become whatever we are committed to. "Let God transform you inwardly by a complete change of your mind. Then you will be able to know the will of God - what is good and pleasing to him and is perfect." Romans 12:2

The truth transforms us. The Spirit of God uses the Word of God to make us like the Son of God. We must abide in God's word, accept its authority, assimilate it's truth and apply it's principles. "If you continue in my word, then are you my disciples indeed; and you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free." John 8:31-32

You were created to become like Christ. God's ultimate goal for your life on earth is not comfort, but character development. God is far more interested in what you are than in what you do. "As the Spirit of the Lord works within us, we become more and more like him and reflect his glory even more." 2 Corinthians 3:18

It is your job to protect the unity of your church. Unity is the soul of fellowship. The church is made up of imperfect humans. We must passionately love the church in spite of its imperfections. "Let us concentrate on the things which make for harmony and the growth of our fellowship together." Romans 14:19

Day 5 of 5 in The Power of a Simple Prayer by Max Lucado read by Brian and Andi Hale

Relationships are always worth restoring. In repairing broken relationships, talk to God before talking to the person. Always take the initiative. God expects you to make the first move. Sympathize, confess and cooperate. "Do everything possible on your part to live in peace with everybody." Romans 12:18

Read by Andi and Brian Hale

Community requires commitment to fellowship with honesty, humility, courtesy and confidentiality. Cultivating community takes frequency, an investment of time. "We understand what love is when we realize that Christ gave his life for us. That means we must give our lives for other believers." 1 John 3:16

Power of a Simple Prayer : Day 3 of 5

Life is meant to be shared. We need others in our lives. In real fellowship, people experience authenticity, mutuality, sympathy and mercy. "Share each other's troubles and problems, and in this way obey the law of Christ." Galatians 6:2

Day 2 of 5 from The Power of a Simple Prayer by Max Lucado on YouVersion read by Brian and Andi Hale

You are called to belong, not just believe. We are created for community, fashioned for fellowship, and formed for a family. None of us can fulfill God's purposes by ourselves. "In Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others." Romans 12:15

Day 1 of 5 in The Power of a Simple Prayer by Max Lucado on YouVersion read by Brian and Andi Hale

What matters most? Life is all about love. Life without love is really worthless. Love leaves a legacy. Relationships are what life is all about and the best expression of love is time. Your time is the greatest gift you can give.

You were formed for God's family. Because God is love, He treasures relationships. Being included in God's family is the highest honor and the greatest privilege you will ever receive.

God is real, no matter how you feel. God admits that sometimes He hides His face from us. When you feel abandoned by God yet continue to trust Him, you worship Him in the deepest way.

Day 5 of 5 - Distracted by Lance Lang on YouVersion

God wants all of you. God-pleasing worship is deeply emotional and deeply doctrinal. We use both our hearts and our heads. The best style of worship is the one that most authentically represents your love for God.

Day 4 of 5 - Distracted by Lance Lang on YouVersion

You are as close to God as you choose to be. God doesn't expect you to be perfect, but He does insist on complete honesty and bitterness is the greatest barrier to friendship with God. "Draw close to God, and God will draw close to you." James 4:8a

Day 3 of 5 - Distraction by Lance Lang on YouVersion

God wants to be your best friend. Friendship with God is possible only because of the grade of God and the sacrifice of Jesus. "Friendship with God is reserved for those who reverence Him." Psalm 25:14a