Hickory Ridge-cast

We want to help you let go of the addiction of "stuff" and live a life full of freedom and generosity!

"Do we turn to God when the baggage gets too heavy for us to carry?" If life, as Paul puts it, is a race, how effectively can we run if we are weighed down with the baggage of our past? Anger, sadness, guilt, regrets... we each have our own story filled with highs and lows, but what if we could use our story to help others on the same path we're on?

The root of bitterness that can grow in us after something terrible is done to us is a toxic, deadly, poisonous killer. We can feel justified in our bitterness against others: "I'll NEVER forgive them. They don't deserve it. They haven't earned it. You don't know what they did to me." Ultimately, we must find a way to get rid of bitterness, by instead, holding on to compassion!

Everyone has baggage... the key is what are you going to do with yours? Do we allow ourselves to be overwhelmed by past sins, mistakes, and regrets - or do we take today as a brand new opportunity to leave it behind, and run towards an amazing, hope-filled future?

Over the last few weeks we've looked at the intersection of science and religion... the many places where Christianity and Logical Reasoning can co-exist. But is that always applicable? Is that even the right view to have? What should we say to people that believe spirituality is ultimately only for those who want to turn their brain off, and live based on faith alone? In this final 'Who Needs God...

When it comes to the man of Jesus Christ, there are so many doubts, questions, and myths brought up about him. Did he really exist, perform miracles, or rise from the dead? Did he ever actually claim to be God? In this week's episode, Pastor Justin Senesi looks at many of the biggest 'Jesus Myths' you're likely to encounter.

1. How can I believe the Bible when there are so many different versions? 2. Is the source material they are translating from accurate? 3. Is the Bible historically accurate? 4. Isn’t the Bible full of contradictions? 5. Why is the Bible so difficult to understand? These are 5 of the most common questions brought up in regards to the Bible, Christianity, and people understandably trying to figure...

" Science is really good at taking things apart so that we can see how they work. Faith puts them back together again so that we can see what they mean. " - Alister McGrath Looking for more HOW'S in your faith? Looking for more WHY'S in your science books? Even in something as debated as creationism, evolution, & old VS young earth believers, there is peace, understanding, and a middle ground...

When people think of the words 'Science' and 'Religion' the first things that usually come to their mind are 'conflict, opposites, & incompatible.' In this message, we look at how the two are not mutually exclusive, and how science points to the ancient truths found in the Bible, and how the Bible can be confirmed and fit within many modern scientific views... starting off with the Big Bang!

We don't serve a God that's silent. He desires to speak to, guide, and know each of us on a deep, personal level. But in a sea of voices, we must learn how best to hear from God. In this week's message, Pastor Justin gives shows how scripture can reveal the Lord's voice to us!

"God has a unique plan for your life but you can’t know God’s plan if you don’t know God and you can’t know God if you don’t spend time with Him." Special guest speaker Rita Clucas dives deep into the truths of self-sacrifice that can be found in 2 Corinthians.

"99% devotion is 1% short..." We serve a God who loves and cares for us; but also one who does so jealously! This isn't about perfection, and never falling short, because our God is abundant in grace and forgiveness! But it IS about priorities, obedience, and being willing to fully submit to God's authority. Enjoy this week's challenging message!

Who in your life "has your ear?" Is it your friends, your family, your co-workers? Maybe an author, or podcast you frequent. If we don't take time to stop and evaluate, it can be easy to find we've accidentally put ourselves in an echo-chamber. That comfortable place where the only voices and opinions we hear match our own, without challenging us, or bringing diversity. In this message, learn from...

So many things prioritize our time, space in our heart, and influence our life. What we must be cautious of, however, is that these things do not become idols... leading us away from God's plan, and onto a dangerous path. Like the King in this week's story, we must be willing to forcefully remove idols - no matter the cost!

Do you constantly deal with the painful bruises of "stones" thrown at you? Those times when people bring up your past mistakes, refuse to let go of your slip-ups, and constantly criticize your every move? Maybe YOU'RE the one throwing stones at yourself. Your inner voice the ever-present critic, leading to extreme self-hatred, or a crippling victim mentality... Or instead, you're the one throwing...

Pastor Justin starts looking at Kings of the Old Testament - some who succeeeded, others who failed - and how learning from stories of their lives can help us each level up spiritually! This week: 8 YEAR OLD King Josiah.

This week: Wayne and Doris Sommers share wisdom with us; including finding healing from a wounding childhood, the part music has played in their lives, and stories from time as missionaries!