Heartbeat

How do you handle loneliness? It’s a feeling we all struggle with from time to time. Some may try to fill their time with distractions like social media, Netflix, medication… But what are you left with when there’s nothing to watch or when the bottle’s empty? Jesus knew loneliness as well. Leading up to the cross we see Him in the garden of Gethsemane, overwhelmed with emotion and praying to His Father- asking for another way. But in the end, He says, “Not my will but Yours be done”. 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. You are never alone. The Creator of the Universe resides in your heart and He’s more than happy to call it home. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

How many times have you simply needed someone to listen? We live in a world where many within our journey of faith carry heavy burdens and feel as though no one wants to hear them for fear of being judged or ridiculed. But praise God they have you in their lives – a fellow believer who will “carry each other’s burdens, and in this way fulfill the law of Christ.” Be that listening ear for someone today. Be present and ready to listen to your brother or sister in Christ. As you serve the Lord, look for opportunities to be “slow to speak, but quick to listen”. As the author, Krista Tippett once said, “Listening is about being present, not just being quiet” Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

I was talking to a friend of mine the other day who told me his relationship wasn’t going great. A week ago, he was thinking of proposing and now he tells me they broke up because she was chewing her food too loud. I think my dear friend might be a little too picky. Some of us can allow ourselves to set impractical expectations when looking for a partner in life. The truth is, that marriage is about two flawed people coming together for love and support of each other and their imperfections. Set your heart to find that imperfect person who, with Christ as the center, together can experience another form of the same, undeserving, loving grace that is extended to us by our Heavenly Father. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

All of us, at some point, can find ourselves in a dark place. Where we may even begin to feel like nothing matters. And while we’re in this funk, it’s difficult to realize we all matter in God’s eyes. In fact, He loves us beyond what we can ever understand. Luke 12:7 states, “Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.” So, hold your head high and know you are loved and known by your Heavenly Father. He knows all your fears and secrets yet loves you unconditionally and beyond measure. Feel a reassuring peace that you are His child and everything about you matters to Him. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

I was taking a walk through my new neighborhood and noticed one of my neighbor’s dogs on a chain in the backyard. There was a perfect path where the poor thing had paced so much at the end of his chain that there was bare lawn. The owner noticed my concern and said, “Oh, that’s Dingo; he has way too much energy”. I said, “well, do you ever take him off his chain?”. With a horrified expression he replied, “I can’t do that, he’d run away”. Unlike this poor dog, in Christ, our Heavenly Father has let us off the chain. And we have the freedom to choose a relationship with Him or not. Galatians 5, verse 1 says, “It is for freedom that we have been set free”. In Christ, we’re His sons and daughters, not slaves. He draws us in with perfect love, not demands. He paid the greatest price to call you home, so don’t allow anything to you back on a chain. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

At this very moment, you may be enjoying your favorite Christian fast food, in your Christian car, while driving to your Christian job. And while many of these things we praise God for having the freedom to enjoy; have we left the world behind in pursuit of a life only surrounded by quote, “Christian” things and other Christian people? While we, like the apostle Paul said he was, are “set apart” for the Gospel of God; does being set apart mean that we step aside and lose all connection to the outside world? As believers, we are here to be the light in a dark place. We are here to introduce people to Jesus and to be the omnipresence of our Father through our loving actions toward our neighbors. To do this effectively, we’re going to have to get outside of the walls of the church. Enjoy your favorite Christian music, but don’t forget to show love to your atheist neighbor while you’re at it. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Life is short. It’s far too short to waste. Remember when you were a kid and a year or two felt like an eternity? Now it feels like with every year I get older, time speeds up faster and faster. Before you know it, God willing, you’ll be in your sixties, looking back at your life. You may have grown children of your own by that point who will think you’re old and you’ll wonder how the days passed by so quickly. Don’t waste your time. Savor every moment. Be brave; Chase your dreams. God has placed them in your heart for a reason. Get as much as you can out of every day. Live life to the brim. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

I’m sure you’ve heard it said that, “God helps those who help themselves.” You may be surprised to learn that nowhere in the Bible does that appear. In fact, God doesn’t want you to be a solely independent spirit. God often sends others into our lives to be of great help to us- and… us to them. In the Bible, Paul had to depend on others to lower him in a basket to escape outside the city wall. And I imagine it must have been tough for Paul to find enough humility to depend on others. Maybe you have a hard time asking for help. But, God rarely asks us to fly solo. You can depend on others, and more importantly, you can depend on Him! Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

When a medical test result indicates something’s wrong, our doctor will often have a serious discussion with us to figure out what behaviors may be contributing to the illness. Then, based on their knowledge and experience, they’ll make some suggestions and give us a guideline to follow moving forward. In this discussion, a good doctor isn’t casting judgment on the patient. They’re simply warning of what could happen if we continue down this path. As the body of Christ- there will be times when a fellow believer might need such a discussion. But, have these discussions with grace and love. As Galatians 6 in the Message says- “If someone falls into sin, forgivingly restore him, saving your critical comments for yourself.” Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Imagine getting hired for a job. You show up on day one and have nothing to do. There are no instructions, no guidance. You just stand around all day until 5 o’clock rolls around. You might think the management has no idea what they’re doing. In our Christian walk, God has prepared work for us to do. And our job isn’t to sit in church aimlessly but to get outside the walls of the church and be His hands and feet. So, use your gifts to make an impact in this world. 1st Peter, chapter 4 says; “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” Being a follower of Christ isn’t a passive life. This world needs you! Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

You can eat processed foods, candy, fake food—but not forever without consequences. One of my favorite sayings- “There’s no food in that food” LOL. And especially for kids, there’s no nutrition to help them grow. The Bible talks about theology that doesn’t help someone grow in Christ. Paul wrote, “But I am afraid that as the serpent deceived Eve by his cunning, your thoughts will be led astray from a sincere and pure devotion to Christ. For if someone comes and proclaims another Jesus than the one we proclaimed, you put up with it readily enough”. So, don’t accept junk food theology. Dive into His word and know the true Gospel of Jesus Christ. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

One of the most hopeful and scariest parts of parenting is knowing that your kids will imitate what they see you do. When your kids are sweet and thoughtful toward others around them, it’s rewarding to take credit for your impeccable parenting skills. We get a little dose of humility, however, when we hear them say something cringeworthy that sounds just like us. Children imitate what they see. Because we’re God’s children, Paul encourages us to imitate Christ’s love and humility to the world around us. So, when you read the Word of God, watch Jesus’ response in so many difficult situations and go do likewise. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

All too often, in this fast-paced world, we miss the things that are just out of our focus.. In the Bible, we see Jesus walking into a new city surrounded by a crowd of people. But, He intentionally stops and takes notice of a man named Zacchaeus, who had climbed a tree to get a better view of Him. Jesus looked up and told him to come down because they were going to have a meal together. This one encounter changed the life of this man. Is there someone on your periphery that you’ve been too busy to notice? Your attention to them could make all the difference in the world. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

If you’ve been to several weddings, I’m sure by now you’ve seen the candle ceremony or something like it. The bride and groom each have a candle of their own as they light a larger one together. The clear symbolism is two people becoming one in the eyes of God. But an important part of this ceremony is to remember to keep your own candle lit. Because while the couple is coming together in marriage it’s important to not lose who God created you individually to be. If you’re newly married, or soon will be, remember this illustration. As you figure out what life looks like and who you’ll be as a couple, don’t forget to be yourself. Afterall- that’s the person your future spouse fell in love with in the first place. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In the Bible, we find these words written by the Apostle Paul, “…Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, I strain to reach the end of the race and receive the prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us up to heaven.” Look. Life can be full of hiccups, setbacks, disappointments and mistakes. It’s part of being human. But are you dwelling on past mistakes or are you allowing God to heal, help you learn from them, and continuing the race ahead? We all have painful memories. But take this message from Paul and learn to look forward to what God has in store for you today. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

The concept of trust is a hard one and rarely celebrated in today’s society. We all hear countless stories of crooked politicians, cheating businesses and CEOs, dishonest spouses, and two-faced friends. It may feel like it’s increasingly harder to place our trust in other people, let alone God. But if we did decide to take a step of faith and place our trust in Him who is able to do “immeasurably more than we can ask or imagine,” our outlook might change a bit. Loving God and being obedient to Him means placing our faith in Him and trusting Him with the consequences. Because with God even if we lose, we win. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

One of the miracles Jesus performed while walking on the earth was healing a man who had been paralyzed for thirty-eight years. Jesus arrived at a pool that was known for its “healing waters” and saw this man. He asked him one question, “Do you want to be made well?” Then, Jesus simply spoke the words, “Take up your mat and walk.” This man had to, literally, step out in faith and try to stand up. He did and realized that he had been healed. Is there somewhere in life that God is asking you to trust Him and step out in faith? Trust that He won’t let you down and take that first step. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Long before the movie, The Matrix, came out 20 years ago- people have hypothesized that we are actually living in a simulation. There have been countless articles and posts arguing this strange theory. Philosophers, astronomers, and nuclear physicists have all chimed in. There are even articles titled, “Confirmed- we live in a simulation”. The interesting thing to me, as a Christian, is it seems like they aren’t far off. If they continue down this rabbit hole, I feel like they will eventually prove to themselves the existence of God. Simulation? No. But we are His creation. We’ve all been put here for a purpose. And this existence is just part one. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Think of the last time- while you were driving- that someone cut you off. If you live in any big city, I’m sure this is an easy ask. You’re driving in your lane, minding your own business when someone comes inches from your car as if you didn’t exist or matter! But guess what- I’m sure we’ve all done this to someone else because every car has blindspots. This is true in life too. We have blindspots. Places in our life where we still need to grow, understand, and show empathy. Surround yourself with friends that hold different perspectives on life, who love you enough to point out your blindspots. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

The fear of death and the desire for immortality is very real. Alcor is a company that basically markets resurrection. For over $200,000, you can pay to have your body frozen, with the hope that in the future, the technology will exist to bring you back to life. Look, even Christians have every right to be at least a little afraid of dying. It’s why we make healthy decisions to live as long and healthy of a life in this body as possible. But if you’ve accepted Christ, know that He defeated death and unlocked the door to our eternity. If you’re feeling anxious about what’s on the other side of this- reach out to God and ask for His peace. He left Heaven to come get us. So when we take our last breaths on this earth- He promises we’ll take our first in His presence. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Each one of us has an inner voice that calls for attention, affirmation, and praise. We like to be recognized. Sometimes that voice screams to be heard when we feel we’ve been wronged. We want to speak out and explain ourselves in an effort to justify our actions- often only to find that we’re trying to be heard over everyone else’s inner voice. But seeking peace in Jesus Christ relieves you from the need to always be justifying yourself. It releases the burden of needing to be seen and being the center of attention. Through this peace that surpasses all understanding, we are freed up to accept life and all its challenges. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

This past spring, I planted a new vegetable garden. I’ve never really known what I’m doing but I just enjoy the process- and the fresh veggies. I planted kale, peppers, and some herbs- and they started out looking great. Until the kale sprouted and everything else shriveled up. It turns out there’s a science behind what veggies go well together. The kale was sucking up specific nutrients that the other plants needed to thrive. This is similar to the kinds of people we surround ourselves with. Do we have a circle of friends who build each other up? Or are we all competitive, always sucking the energy out of others? Surround yourself with generous, loving people. Encourage each other and carry each other’s burdens. Don’t be like my garden. It was a lonely place for the kale. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

If you’ve ever attempted to run a distance of over 26 miles, you’re aware of a phenomenon called “the wall.” Runners will tell you that once your body has depleted its total store of energy, it simply shuts down and the only way to keep going is to “will” your every step. Depending on your conditioning and skill level, you could hit the wall at mile 10 or 20. Or maybe not at all! Runners who have trained intensively may never even hit the wall. The Bible tells us that we should condition ourselves for the tough times. It says that if we’ve trained ourselves for the fight, the difficult times won’t defeat us. The next time you’re going through a tough time, picture God Himself as your running partner and together, you will get through this. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

A recent survey by Pew Research reported that a majority of Americans, about 57%, say they only know a few of their neighbors. Even fewer, 26%- say they know most of them. Look, viewing your home as a sanctuary is a beautiful thing. But it doesn’t mean you need to shut yourself out from those around you. God has called us to make an impact for His Kingdom. This doesn’t always mean traveling overseas to do missionary work. The mission field is in our backyard! Showing the love of God to the people right next door to us is an incredible start. So, if you’re still trying to build up the confidence to introduce yourself to your neighbors, you’re not alone- but ask God for the strength you need and make an impact in the world right around you. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Hurricanes are dangerous and destructive. We’ve all witnessed the devastation they can cause. Yet, scientists tell us that hurricanes are tremendously valuable and that they’re necessary to maintain a balance in nature. They dissipate a large percentage of the oppressive heat that builds up at the equator and are indirectly responsible for much of the rainfall in North and South America. Meteorologists no longer use cloud-seeding techniques to prevent them. They are convinced that hurricanes actually do more good than harm. Could it be that the same is true with the storms of life? Ask God for the confidence in knowing He can use this difficult time for your benefit. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

When you’re driving in storm- if your car begins to hydroplane, it’s easy to overcorrect and make matters worse. Instead, stay calm, gently tap the brakes, and turn the steering wheel in the direction the car is moving. The worst thing you can do is overreact and send the car out of control by making additional wrong moves. This is the same in our Christian walk. If we find ourselves coming out of a difficult situation, it’s easy to overcompensate and make rash decisions. Instead, ask God for wisdom, listen to His still small voice, and calmly navigate your way to a better tomorrow. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

We live in a culture of performance where what you do helps define who you are. Our culture is one that promotes status and wealth, education and production. The danger of this is that we can easily slide into finding our identity in our activities and roles. This can even happen within ministry. Our work locates us in the social world and assigns value to us. Centuries of sociological conditioning have served to hard-wire us this way. But the reality is that our worth comes from God and not our achievements. Colossians 2:10 says, “In Him you have been made complete.” So, if you’re looking for your true identity, the only place to find it is in Jesus Christ! Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In the pearl oyster, a tiny grain of sand makes a wound, which causes the little creature a lot of suffering. The oyster begins secreting various minerals to encase the irritant and eventually, a beautiful pearl emerges from the wound. In life we incur hurts and scars; adversities and afflictions; sorrows and suffering. In Galatians 6:17, the apostle Paul said, “I bear on my body the marks of Jesus.” Suffering grows us and matures us. Our hurts teach us and strengthen us. Through the power of Divine grace, our own hurts become rich pearls in our character; true marks of Jesus. Trust Him today to transform your suffering into pearls as a testimony of His faithfulness! Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

A recent study suggests that time spent in fellowship with other people is good for our health. People with fewer social ties had significantly higher risks of heart disease and cancer. Doctors claim that social isolation is a source of chronic stress that puts us at risk. Hebrews 10:25 says, “Some people have gotten out of the habit of meeting together for worship, but we must not do that. We should keep on encouraging each other…” So, Don’t isolate! If you’ve gotten out of the habit of going to church, maybe you should go back. Social ties that are also spiritual are extra good for your health! Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Recently, I was listening to an interview with an Olympic high diving champion. They asked her how she overcame the fear to jump from higher and higher platforms. She said she learned a lesson early on- that when she decides to do something challenging, she leaves fear at the door. She literally pictures herself dropping it off and moving forward. What a great piece of advice. What are you nervous about right now? A job interview? A public speaking event? A high diving competition? Try her advice. Recognize the fear you have about the event and leave it at the door. The apostle Paul gives us some encouraging words in 2nd Timothy “for God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control” Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

A master silversmith was carefully preparing silver for molding. The ore liquefied and came to a slow boil in the large pot hanging over the fire. He scooped off the residue that had risen to the top and discarded it, explaining that he was making sure the silver was pure; free from any impurities known as “dross.” Curious, an onlooker asked how he knew when the silver was pure. The silversmith answered, “When I see my face clearly reflected in the silver.” Jesus wants to see His image reflected in you. Only when you bear the Master’s image are you truly pure. So, let Him remove the impurities so His image can be reflected to the world around you. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

I was on a solo road trip recently that took me through the Appalachian Mountains. I had already been on the road for hours and was getting restless and grumpy. Just ready to be there. I was stressed- thinking of all I needed to do once I arrived. But, suddenly, the highway rounded through the forest and opened up in a valley- surrounded by gorgeous, lush mountains- with pieces of clouds clinging to them like cotton candy. My jaw literally dropped at the beauty. I felt so small. In that moment my petty concerns seemed so insignificant. God has always used His creation to bring me back to Him. In that moment I could hear His spirit telling me to simply breathe. If you’re feeling stressed out, maybe it’s time you disconnected and enjoyed His creation. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

I was walking through midtown on my way to a meeting when I noticed a homeless lady struggling with her bike across the street. The front wheel looked crooked, and I could see she was frustrated. But I was going to be late! I kept walking, until I remembered a quote from author James Clear. “You don’t help people when it’s convenient for you- you help people when they need help”. I turned around and crossed the street- greeting the woman with the bike. I asked if I could help and together, we got the axle back in the right spot and she was good to go. She was so excited that I stopped to help. With all that she had going on- in that moment I was able to remind her we’re all in this together. Sometimes that’s all people need. The omnipresence of our heavenly Father is lived out through us. So, whether it’s convenient or not, go and be His hands and feet. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

When children begin taking swimming lessons, they’re often asked to jump into the water from the pool's edge. But this can be an incredibly scary experience for many kids. It's not unusual to see a small child frozen at the edge of the pool while everyone else encourages them to jump. To ease this fear, swimming instructors often demonstrate the jump themselves, allowing the child to witness someone they know and trust successfully entering the water and resurfacing safely. Similarly, Jesus did the same for us. He faced and endured all the challenges and hardships that we encounter in life. Through His example, He demonstrated that it is possible to overcome obstacles and emerge victorious. He’s given us the gift of the Holy Spirit to guide us through the trials we face. So, follow your Savior and jump in! Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Baseball legend Yogi Berra was once struggling in a tied game, bottom of the ninth, two outs. The opposing batter stepped into the box and used his bat to draw a cross in the dirt. Berra quickly wiped the religious symbol off the plate. A Catholic as well, he said to the batter, “Why don’t we let God just watch this game?” Can you resonate with Berra? It’s so common to see people trivialize religion by petitioning God selectively and selfishly. However, we can also take comfort today in the fact that God’s involvement in our lives is not simply that of a spectator. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

The Canadian based, multimillion-dollar, Cirque du Soleil is known for its innovation, strategic risk-taking, and pushing the envelope. When looking for new talent, Cirque du Soleil scouts often ask candidates to do something totally unexpected at an audition, such as climb a rope and sing a song at the top. If the candidate shows any hesitation, they’re generally out the door. In the Bible, we see Jesus doing a similar thing. He says, “Drop what you’re doing and follow me.” “Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” Jesus asks of us - the totally unexpected. So, don’t hesitate! Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Have you ever dreamt of receiving an unexpected large inheritance? Maybe some distant uncle you’ve never met somehow leaves you a huge sum of money and a mansion? You’re suddenly wealthy by no effort of your own! As believers in Christ, we’ve received an inheritance. An undeserved, un-worked for inheritance that doesn’t come with unpaid property taxes. The Apostle Paul says in Ephesians chapter 1 that “In Christ we have obtained an inheritance, having been predestined according to the purpose of him who works all things according to the counsel of his will” This inheritance is everlasting life. It’s the gift of his Holy Spirit in you, and a peace above all understanding. You may not have a distant, diseased, wealthy uncle- but in Christ, spiritually, you are rich beyond measure! Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

I hate making mistakes. Yet, did you know so many inventions we use today were created by accident? Stirring a pot of chemicals in 1826, John Walker pulled his wooden stir stick out of the pot and tried to wipe the glob of chemicals stuck on the table. Instead of wiping off, the chemicals ignited. As a result, matches were born! And simply by using the wrong resistor in a device led medical researcher Wilson Greatbatch to develop the pacemaker. We often make mistakes in life. We’re not perfect. But the good news is that God is in the restoration business. So, if you’ve made a mistake, take your concerns to God and allow Him to turn your failures into a success. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Middle school is an incredibly difficult time in life. As a teenager, you’re trying to figure out who you are and where you belong. We may even try on different personalities to see what sticks. Someone who loves to read and play music may begin acting like jock to fit in with the basketball team. Or a kind-spirited girl may start acting mean to fit in with the popular girls. But, to everyone around them, the contrast between who they are and who they’re pretending to be is quite apparent. The Apostle Paul reminds us believers that we no longer live according to the flesh but by the spirit. So, be the uniquely created work of art God has created you to be. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

We often take trees for granted. Maybe we don’t think twice when we see half a forest removed to make way for more homes. But trees serve an important role in the function of our world. As they take in the carbon dioxide that we humans exhale, trees in turn produce oxygen for us to breathe. It’s the perfect symbiotic relationship. Sometimes we’re tempted to think that we can function apart from God. Nothing could be further from the truth! He involves Himself in our lives even when we don’t notice, nurturing and protecting when we’re unable to do so ourselves. This too is a perfect relationship. If you don’t know Him, ask God to make Himself known to you today. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Many Christians, when speaking to unbelievers, may get a little off track as they share specific theologies, doctrines, denominational differences. But the simplest place to start is this- Do you believe in God? Even as believers, most of us have had periods in life where we question. Whether it’s in the wake of a tragedy or doubts in certain interpretations of scripture. If this is you or you want to know how to speak to unbelievers, I want to introduce you to a really cool website. Everystudent.com is a site where you can find answers to all kinds of questions about God and faith. Here you can ask questions of your own or sign up to receive study packets that present the gospel and lay out a beautiful case for the existence of God. So, check it out- https://www.everystudent.com/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

I think most of us would think of rain as a negative thing. Maybe you planned a camping trip- and as soon as you begin to setup camp it starts pouring. Rain was the last thing you wanted on this trip. But if you’re a farmer and your crops are failing- rain could be the difference between a successful year and financial failure. The Bible says that God pours out His blessings like a gentle rain. What a fitting description of the God of the universe! It gives us a clear picture of the Creator caring for us even in the middle of difficult times. Maybe rain isn’t so bad after all. The next time you’re caught in a storm think of God- constantly pouring out His blessings in your life. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Mountain climbers have a concept called the “false summit”. During a climb they’ll often get to what they think is the peak, only to realize they’re at the bottom of an even larger mountain. This is a great spiritual lesson too. I can think of the times in my life where I wasn’t listening to God. I was trying to go my own way. This is usually the way seems easier, until you realize you’ve only reached the bottom of a much larger mountain. Are you on the right path? Are you listening to God and what He wants for your life? Make sure your peak isn’t a false summit. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Volunteering has a meaningful, positive impact on your community. But did you know that volunteering also benefits you personally? Beyond the intangible benefits such as pride and accomplishment, there is also a strong relationship between volunteering and health. Studies have shown that those who volunteer have lower mortality rates, greater functional ability, and lower rates of depression later in life. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. said, “Everybody can be great, because everybody can serve.” So consider volunteering! Not only will it strengthen your community and improve lives; it may even transform your own. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

When a disaster strikes- it impacts everyone. When a hurricane makes landfall- it doesn’t matter who you are or where you come from- everyone is suddenly in the same boat. It’s often during these tragedies that we see neighbors lean on each other in a way they never have prior. But what if we learned to live life as a community without the impending destruction of a storm? Dependence tends to have a negative connotation in American society where individualism is praised above all else. But relying on one another can introduce a new concept – realizing how dependent we really are upon each other. Begin approaching the problems of life together. Then see how a burden that’s shared is lightened. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In the old fable, the rabbit wins the race against the fox. Following the race an owl asked the fox “Why didn’t you catch that rabbit?” “Well,” panted the fox, “I was running for fun, but that rabbit was running for his life!” Why are you running the “race of life?” Maybe you just want a good time. Maybe your goal is prosperity or fame. Maybe you run without knowing why. If you’re looking for some direction in life, reach out to God. He has a plan for your life- to give you hope and a future. We’re all in this race, but if you want to run a race worth the effort- follow God’s plan for your life. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

One question I hear often is, “If God really loves me, then why am I going through such a hard time?” Well, God never promised us that life would be without difficulty. He’s given each of us a free will. And like a rock, when thrown into the water makes ripples over the entire pond, frivolous choices made by us or others can cause problems. But be encouraged because the Bible tells us that God “…causes all things to work together for our good.” So the next time a problem comes your way, ask God how to handle it. Then, let Him use it to bring good into your life. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Recently, I’ve gained a new hobby in gardening. We built a raised bed and planted kale, peppers, tomatoes, and peas from seeds. Through daily watering, cleaning of debris, and a ton of patience- last night we made a salad from vegetables we grew in our own backyard! That was so rewarding- and delicious. I’ve often found that in my walk with God, patience is key. It takes time to see what He’s growing in our lives. And it takes our participation to move as His Spirit guides us. If I planted those seeds in my garden but did nothing else, weeds would have taken over, the plants wouldn’t have received the water they needed and- no salad for us. So, if you find yourself in a season of significant spiritual growth- think like a farmer. Work and wait. The spiritual fruit grown in your life will be your reward. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

I have a friend who is an incredibly talented artist. He works in wood and metal- making beautiful pieces like tables, chandeliers, and kinetic sculptures. The thing that sets him apart though, is that he only works with material that was destined to be trash. Broken wood slabs, rusted bike parts, you name it. Digging through piles of dilapidated materials, he sees the beauty in the broken. I am so grateful that God sees the same in us. Life is hard. But He gets us. Maybe you’ve felt like scrap metal at times- pushed to the limits, ready to be discarded. But no one is ever too far gone for God. He can take the pain and turn it into life lessons. Take what the enemy meant for your demise and turn it into a testimony. No matter where you are in life- you are God’s masterpiece. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

We live in a culture obsessed with beauty. Not long ago, an 8-year-old girl and her mother appeared on Good Morning America to explain why the girl was receiving Botox injections. The child, who was a participant in child beauty pageants, believed she had wrinkles on her face, and she wanted them gone. The Bible says that “man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” God’s concern is who we are on the inside. Are we loving, caring and kind people? Or are we too self-centered to notice our neighbor in need? Focus on character before looks. Because beauty is only skin deep. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.