Heartbeat

Whenever you feel crushed, under pressure, pressed or in darkness pray that God grant you His peace, which surpasses all understanding. In John 16:33 Christ says: “in this world you will have trouble, but be brave! I have defeated the world! ” https://salvationarmysoundcast.org/heartbeat Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

If you're living out your life as God directs your steps, non-believers may not understand the choices you're making. Kingdom living often looks quite strange to the rest of the world. https://salvationarmysoundcast.org/heartbeat Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

What would your day look like if you intentionally took a break and unplugged? Instead of endless scrolling on your phone, put the distractions aside, and take the time to pause, pray and lean into God’s presence. https://salvationarmysoundcast.org/heartbeat Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

When you’re in the midst of an argument and about to do some serious damage to a relationship- the best thing you can do is STOP- and ask God how you can honor Him in this moment. https://salvationarmysoundcast.org/heartbeat Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

God wants us to be content because there is so much peace in contentment. But if you find yourself achieving financial success, just remember that every good and perfect gift comes from above. Giving back to God by caring for others is a beautiful way to worship. https://salvationarmysoundcast.org/heartbeat Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Rather than focusing on scientific details, the book of Genesis tells us how God turned this "house" into a "home" https://salvationarmysoundcast.org/heartbeat Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

The greatest gift of getting to the other side of a difficult season is the encouragement you can offer someone else. Remember, there is someone out there right now who needs to be encouraged by your story. https://salvationarmysoundcast.org/heartbeat Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

You may have gone through a recent trial that has left you feeling devastated… Hopeless. But God has not left you. That seed of faith once planted in your heart can grow again. Trust in His plan for your future and know that you will thrive once again. https://salvationarmysoundcast.org/heartbeat Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

“Don’t be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” https://salvationarmysoundcast.org/heartbeat Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

If you find yourself in a dark place today, know that there are some of God's treasures which can only be revealed to you there. https://salvationarmysoundcast.org/heartbeat Learn about more shows produced by The Salvation Army at https://salvationarmysoundcast.org/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

The Apostle Paul says in Romans, chapter 1 that within our world, the invisible qualities of God are on display. His eternal power and divine nature have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that people are without excuse. Our world is the most incredible piece of art ever created. And the artist’s signature is there waiting to be discovered if we only take the time to look. https://salvationarmysoundcast.org/heartbeat Learn about more shows produced by The Salvation Army at https://salvationarmysoundcast.org/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Speak words of life to each other. Anything less doesn’t mix with who you are as a new creation in Christ. https://salvationarmysoundcast.org/heartbeat Learn about more shows produced by The Salvation Army at https://salvationarmysoundcast.org/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

If you’re struggling with your faith, know that nothing is off limits when talking to your Heavenly Father. https://salvationarmysoundcast.org/heartbeat Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

The Bible teaches us to consider others better than ourselves. Stay humble. https://salvationarmysoundcast.org/heartbeat Learn about more shows produced by The Salvation Army at https://salvationarmysoundcast.org/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

All around us are incredible mysteries and awe-inspiring beauty. If you’re struggling with belief in God, do you at least see a lifeforce or something beyond our comprehension working behind the scenes in nature? If so, start there. Ask questions. https://salvationarmysoundcast.org/heartbeat Learn about more shows produced by The Salvation Army at https://salvationarmysoundcast.org/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

When was the last time you said or did something that you regret? Maybe in the heat of the moment, you’ve lashed out at a co-worker because of something relatively insignificant. The feelings of guilt that are generated by regret don’t feel good. We long for ways to take back what was said or done. Learn about more shows produced by The Salvation Army at https://salvationarmysoundcast.org/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

While it may seem that God is placing detours in our life to ruin our plans, He’s really directing us to a safer path, away from danger. Learn about more shows produced by The Salvation Army at https://salvationarmysoundcast.org/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Like the Grand Canyon, loneliness is a deep incision in the surface of our existence. But it can become an inexhaustible source of beauty and self-understanding. Learn about more shows produced by The Salvation Army at https://salvationarmysoundcast.org/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

What qualities do you think are essential for personal relationships? Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

When a child is adopted, in the eyes of the law- They receive a new identity; they are a part of their new family. It's just like that to be adopted into the family of God. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Maybe today you feel like you got up on the wrong side of the bed. Well- before you infect anyone else with your bad mood- take a pause. Breathe. And pray. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Why is it, then, when God says, “Be kind” or “Be holy,” that we bristle, as though he wants to spoil our happiness and dreams of success? God loves us all with an everlasting love, desiring only our good. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Maybe we have a terrible habit but we have yet to see the consequences. God is patient with us. But when He says we will reap what we sow, He means it. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

If you’re a parent, like me, I’m sure you can agree that you haven’t been the picture perfect parent every day. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Jesus’ model of discipleship was experiential. He did plenty of teaching, but people followed Him when they had a personal encounter. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Tomorrow isn’t promised so let’s make the most of today. Help a stranger, speak words of life to those around you and love with reckless abandon. Be present in the moment and let God worry about tomorrow. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

I think something we should learn from Jesus is that even in our darkest times, at the loneliest moment, God still has a plan and a will for our life. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Kindness should be a way of life, but we’ve all crossed paths with people who’ve been less than kind. And we ourselves haven’t always measured up either. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Generally, it’s only natural for us to resent authority over our lives. We long for independence—freedom to make our own decisions. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Time and Time again, I’ve had a plan, but God has continuously shown me He has an even better one. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Perhaps you’re going through a dark and desperate night, but just as calm comes after the storm, so will your salvation. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

For He chose us in Him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in His sight. In love, He predestined us for adoption to sonship through Jesus Christ. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Perhaps past experiences have jaded us to only expect the worst. But, that’s not true! And, it’s a lie from the enemy. God said, For I know the plans I have for you, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future! Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Friends, even on our darkest days, there is beauty, nothing is wasted. Think about the verses in Matthew 6:25-34. Why do we worry about our every day life? Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Most of us, generally believe we’re on the right path in life. We make our own decisions and know where we’re going. All seems well until the road twists and turns with anxiety, fear and worry. How did something so certain change so quickly? Philippians 4:6 states, “Don’t be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” With so many choices in life, relying on God for guidance is the only way to know we’re headed in the right direction. Whether you go left or right, pray for God’s wisdom. He will never lead you down the wrong path. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

I like to think of myself as a work in progress, this helps me to have grace with myself but to also be faithful in surrendering daily to God and His plans for my life. I believe, each day God is helping me grow into who He created me to be. I’m not perfect, I don’t have it all figured out. BUT, I don’t need to know every detail of what my life will look like, I just have to trust Him. It's pretty cool to think that each day, whether it’s filled with lots of good things or filled with lots of challenges, none of it is a surprise to our Heavenly Father. In Ephesians, we are reminded that “we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.” God created each of us with a purpose, know wherever you find yourself today, you are loved, and you are God’s masterpiece. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Our friends and community become life-shapers to us. So, who, in your life are helping to shape you and push you to be the best that you can be? Not everyone in your life will be your coach, advocate or cheerleader! In the Bible, Amos 3:3 asks the question, “Can two walk together, unless they agree?” Many times, it’s healthy to respectfully disagree with a friend. But this is never acceptable if this person is hindering your growth in Christ. If you’re in a negative relationship that is holding you back or pulling you down, you may need to cut ties. Seek positive relationships with people who support, grow and challenge you to be the best version of who God created you to be. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Think about the last time you went shopping for clothes. What would you do if the sweater you were trying on didn’t fit? Would you force it on or look for one in the correct size? Sometimes we do this with scripture. We may pluck out a verse here or there to suit our needs or fit our opinions. But, out of context, we can do some serious damage by reading the word of God in this way. We may end up attempting to force a verse into a situation that was never intended to fit our expectations. When we’re studying the Bible, it’s important to know the circumstances, timeline and the audience. We should allow the Bible to teach us about who Jesus is and who we are in Him. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In the Bible, when the woman with the issue of blood touched the hem of the Savior’s garment, Jesus already knew that she was going to touch Him. He already knew she was in the crowd. After all, He is God in the flesh. Now, while He could have pointed her out, Jesus asked, “Who touched Me?” God wants us to ignore the crowd around us, look past the chaos, and approach His throne boldly. It could have been an unmentioned miracle, but Jesus would have this unnamed woman speak up publicly, for what she sought after and received from Him. Jesus said to her, “Your faith has made you whole,”. She wasn’t just made well, but WHOLE- completely restored. So, what are you desperately believing God for? And what are you willing to risk? Whatever you do, be bold in your pursuit of God Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Thank you so much for listening to HEARTBEAT! We have some exciting news to share! Beginning this September we’re joining Salem Media Group’s Christian podcast network, LifeAudio. LifeAudio is home to top charting, Christian podcasts and they’re proud to bring entertaining, life-changing, and family-friendly podcasts for the engaged, evangelical Christian audience. This partnership in ministry will allow HEARTBEAT to be in front of even more potential listeners as we continue to create the show you know and love. You will not need to resubscribe or do anything different as this change will be seamless. We will be running some advertisements on the show which will help us cover some of our production costs but the show itself will not change. To learn more about life audio- visit https://www.lifeaudio.com/ Thank you for listening and God bless Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Consider how you introduce yourself to someone new. You might say something like, “Hi, I’m Janine and I’m a school principal.” Or, “Hi, I’m Jake and I’m an engineer”. In these examples, we say our name followed by our job title or some major accomplishment. It’s easy for us to get so wrapped up in what we do, that it becomes who we think we are. In contrast, God values us before we do anything. He would introduce us as Janine, Jake and Meagan as dearly loved children of God. To God, who we are is much more important than what we do. So, certainly, take pride in your work but don’t let it become your sole identity. Before anything, you are a child of God. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In Genesis 1, verse 28, we read “Be fruitful and multiply; fill the earth and subdue it; have dominion over the fish of the sea, the birds of the air, and over every living thing that moves on the earth”. Did you know that some people actually point to this scripture to excuse human behavior as we mistreat the planet? Well, according to Strong’s Concordance, did you know that the phrase, “have dominion” is the Hebrew word, radah? This Hebrew word is related to other words which mean descend, wander and spread. Many scholars believe that the appropriate understanding of this verb- in this context means “to rule by going down and walking among the subjects as an equal.” How are we caring for God’s creation in this way? Are we mistreating it as a cruel leader? Or are we treating it with the Grace, love and kindness our Father has shown to us? Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

A boy was told by his father not to play with his watch while he was away. However, not long after he left, the boy decided to just have a look. He put it on just like he always saw his dad and began playing around the house. Before long, he tripped, fell and landed on the watch. (glass break sounds) When his dad came home, his son was nowhere in sight, hiding in shame for what he had done. This isn’t a new story. Adam and Eve hid from God when they realized what they had done. Sin and guilt had drove a wedge between God and His children. So, He came as a man, to die in our place, so He could call His children home. Sin had broken something. A watch, a relationship. But nothing is ever too broken for God. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Nehemiah chapter 8 verse 10 says: “The joy of the Lord is my strength.” Are you choosing to rely on God daily or are you depending on someone or something else? Trust me, that cup of coffee you’re drinking is not all you need to tackle the day. C.S. Lewis said, “Relying on God has to begin all over again every day as if nothing had yet been done.” Meaning, we need to connect with our heavenly Father every single day. After you pour that first cup of coffee, or before you even get out of bed, make it a priority. Whether that’s reading scripture on your bible app, or listening to your favorite worship song, let the joy of the Lord soak in and be your source of strength. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Author C.S. Lewis said that if our charities don’t pinch or hamper us, then they are too small. People today are generally civic minded. They desire to help others and give back to their communities. But Lewis would have us ask ourselves whether or not our efforts are really enough. Are we contributing just enough to check a box for ourselves- or are we really helping our neighbors in need. I find C.S. Lewis’ statement personally challenging. So I’m looking to do something this week that will really stretch and challenge me. Rather than just dropping off some canned goods or donating a few dollars, I might volunteer to serve at a soup kitchen or a homeless shelter. What will you do? Hopefully, nothing too small! Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

For the average car owner, what do you do when something goes wrong with it? If the engine starts making a terrible sound, do you look for a schematic diagram of your car, or do you take it someone who knows how to fix it? The author and Bible scholar, N.T. Wright says that, “The Bible isn’t like an accurate description of how a car is made. It’s more like the mechanic who helps you fix it.” When we read our Bible, we shouldn’t be reading it for the purpose being able to spout out Biblical knowledge. We should be reading it to connect with God. When your spiritual life is in need of some maintenance, don’t try to fix it on your own. Look within the Word of God to refuel, tune up and get you where you’re going. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

I have always been fascinated by the process of metamorphosis. How there can be such a profound change in form from one stage to the next in the life history of an organism. Think, for example, of an ugly, ground-crawling caterpillar that ultimately becomes a beautiful butterfly with wings that enable it to fly. The amazing thing is that spiritually, such a complete transformation can happen to us! The person I am today I know is vastly different than who I would have been without Christ. 2nd Corinthians 5:17 says that in Christ, we can become a new person. Do you need a real makeover or a complete overhaul? Do you need a brand new start? Let Christ transform you! Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

A while back, I had posted a quote by a pastor I admire, hoping to instill some peace in someone who really needed to hear these words. But, without fail, an anonymous person commented something so hateful that it took me a while to share a message like that again. I allowed this person to make me doubt myself, made me feel inferior and unqualified to share about my own faith. But I found peace in 1st Corinthians, 1:28. Because the Apostle Paul reminds us that God uses what and who the world despises to do extraordinary things. No matter how little society thinks of you, God has chosen you to do incredible things for His Kingdom. So, don’t let some social media troll keep you down. He has chosen and will use people like you and me to change the world. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Life doesn’t always work the way we think it should. High expectations slam against unwelcome surprises. At those times it’s hard to feel the presence of God. If He is everywhere and loves us like he says he does, why does he allow the loss of a job or home or a loved one? God has gone to great lengths to make himself known to us— through the Bible, through his people, through nature, and through his only Son who died for us. The author and speaker, Dr. Joel Muddamalle (Mood-am-AL-Lay) says that every time he asks, “Why”, God reminds him, Who created and sustains all things? Who defeated death? Who comforts us in our pain and sorrow? To all of these questions- we answer, our Heavenly Father. Joel goes on to say that every time someone asks the question “why do bad things happen to good people” he answers, “God, I don’t know. But you do. And that will be good enough for me.” Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Questioning your faith or having doubts doesn’t mean your faith isn’t real- or that you’re a fake Christian. Having questions is perfectly normal, and healthy. People who don’t take the time to ask hard questions about their faith will eventually have a serious struggle when they experience a tragedy or come across the probing questions of an intelligent skeptic. The pastor and author, Tim Keller writes, “It is no longer sufficient to hold beliefs just because you inherited them.” In other words, if you grew up in a Christian home, it’s time to make your parents’ faith your own. Take time to reflect on your doubts and bring them to God. He will patiently walk with you as you work out your faith. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.