Grace & Gratitude (a CRC podcast)

People say that our "spiritual walk" matters or that we should walk with God — but why ? Maybe you struggle when walking with God. Maybe it's been a while since you've walked with God, or maybe you've never tried. We all know how easy it is to walk away and to wander around according to our own way, so it's worth asking the question. After all, if we don't know why, then we have no purpose or moti...

Walking with God involves communing with God, but very practically speaking, how do we do that? Take a few minutes to consider seven aspects of walking with God. These seven were originally suggested by George Whitefield in the 18th century, but we can take these even further and consider how to best apply them in our lives today. So take a step forward! Let's walk with God together.

What is a "spiritual walk"? We sometimes sing about walking with the Lord, and we read about Enoch who walked with God — but what does that mean? Before we get to the how, we need to ask the what. Delve into this with us, as we reflect upon George Whitefield's seven aspects of walking with God.

Here I am! Being "present in worship" sounds like a wonderful goal, but that can be difficult to define, and sometimes experientially elusive. Despite our lack of awareness or understanding, the people of God are called to respond — to "choose this day whom you will serve" — and that includes trustful, daily obedience. Toward this end, God calls us, but how do we respond in an appropriate way? To...

Sometimes we approach worship too casually — not in what we wear, but in the condition of our hearts. Even worse, sometimes we fail to worship at all, due to distraction, irritation, or other situations. In those cases, we treat spirituality with triviality, thinking that the motions are good enough. When that happens, what should we do? What can help?  Scripture reminds us that when we don't wors...

Read 1 Samuel 1-2, and then join along as we learn from the example of Hannah. Many people today are facing difficulties, and some are deconstructing their spirituality or leaving their faith altogether. While we may feel like giving up, especially when life gets hard, it is important to continuing in worship — for God is worthy of our praise. God is the one who gives life, so when we feel lifeles...

Join along in singing the hymn "Father, Long Before Creation."

This month, we look at justice — and ask the difficult question of "Why does injustice continue if so many people believe in God?" Psalm 82 gives us insight into the Only God who brings justice, the God who deserves our worship. Delve into this challenging passage, and consider how Jesus Christ's exaltation can inspire you — to not only worship but to pursue justice in this world.

Ever feel down and out? Whether it be from other people or difficult situations, we've all felt pushed down, even "underground," at one time or another. When you feel down, scripture reminds us of an important truth: Our glorious God cares about humanity and raises us above the chaos. As Psalm 8 teaches, the glory of God gives us both meaning and confidence — not because of what we've done but bec...

Both personally and communally, we face all kinds of burdens that prevent us from living a fulfilling life. Perhaps even now you feel stuck in a situation and don't know how to get out. But there is hope. In worship, we come before Christ our King, who liberates us. This liberty is not reserved for only a few but guaranteed for all believers in Jesus Christ. In fact, as we learn from Leviticus, li...

What does the word "hallelujah" mean? We hear and say it often, but let's take a moment together to consider its meaning — in the past, in the present, and the future.

When we're sick, it's hard to think about anything else; our minds become consumed with symptoms. And when symptoms continue or intensify, we can even feel cursed. We might even wonder, where is God in the midst of this? Tune in to hear why we can have hope, even when facing physical struggles.

Ever feel disconnected from friends or deserted by your family? Maybe you feel stuck in an unfortunate place in life or that you've gotten the wrong side of a bad deal. What can we do in situations like that? The story of Abram in Genesis 13 gives us guidance. God invites his people to take time and see his promises, even those far off, for God always provides. As you listen to this episode, consi...

What is so exciting about the Kingdom of God? God calls all the nations, we know that well, but why should we sing about that?  Sometimes, we take our faith for granted. Other times, we privatize our faith. But Psalm 47 reminds us to see more around us. Listen in to hear why the global reach of God's Kingdom is so exciting.

Ever wonder why Christians worship together on Sunday? Tune in to hear the reasons for Sunday, togetherness, and worship. Then share this episode with a friend, and invite them to join you this weekend.

Scripture starts with an introduction to God, and by implication, we are also introduced to why we should worship. The first two verses of Genesis 1 teach us about the origin , reason , and action of worship. Let's take a few minutes to reflect upon these verses together, and may God use these verses to help us worship.

Want to live with robust spirituality? What fuels that in a person? Some people prefer congregational worship but do not pray in private; others might pray but not gather for public worship. And many people today, especially in the United States, struggle to fast. But what happens when we disconnect those spiritual practices from each other? Consider the importance of the various parts of spiritua...

Ever feel overwhelmed with the complexity of religion? Ever wish things could just "get to the point"? Psalm 117 does exactly that. As the shortest chapter in the Bible, this psalm reminds us of what matters most. In two simple verses, we are reminded to acknowledge the name above all other names — Yahweh. Take a few minutes to reflect on these verses, and may this inspire you to sing "hallelujah"...

Worship experiences transform us, and in many cases, we can learn about a person from the worship experiences they have had. A few weeks ago, we heard from Pastor John talk about worship. In this episode, we'll get to know Pastor Bobby — and in the process, we'll learn about how he views worship, ministry, and the church. Let's hear about Pastor Bobby's favorite worship experience is and why.

As Christians, what can we learn from the youngest? In particular, what do they teach us about worship? This episode reflects upon Lombard CRC's Storytime Bible Camp, as the preschoolers remind us of an important principle about worship. Take a moment to look back at the children coming to Jesus, and then look ahead to what that means for us adults.

Don't feel ready for Sunday? You're not alone. The commandment to remember the Sabbath is given to us because we are prone not to rest. The good news is that we can ask for help. As W. David. O. Taylor prays: "O Lord, you who rested on the sabbath in order to delight in your creation, may we live this day as a day of grace—in contented rest, festive play, generous hospitality & leisurely relat...

From Psalm 103, Pastor John shares a challenge for this summer. This sermon highlight from Sunday will serve as an encourage to praise as you enjoy this time of year — even while you're on vacation. Have a friend who has been missing from church? Share this episode with them as a reminder of the importance of worship.

What's the background behind the hymn "In Christ There is No East or West"? Tune in to hear a brief history and a new recording of this well-beloved hymn — a beautiful reminder of how God is working throughout the entire world.

What is your favorite worship experience? It's a question that we can ask ourselves and others. The answer reveals who we are and how we see the Christian faith. Take a few minutes to get to know Pastor John better — and in doing so, we'll gain additional insight into Reformed worship. To understand how Pastor John views worship, let's hear what his favorite worship experience is and why.

How do we know "real" religion? What kind of effects should we expect? As we conclude a study of John 4, it is recommended to reread the passage, in order to keep the narrative fresh in your mind. Then join along in the podcast as we take a closer look at the Samaritan woman and her response to Jesus, the Messiah. In so doing, we will learn the importance of recognizing, repenting, and retelling....