Heartbeat

At the beginning of the twentieth century, infectious diseases were the primary causes of premature death in America. But in the twenty-first century, preventable lifestyle diseases like type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and many cancers- influenced by unhealthy habits and poor choices are shortening our lives. The National Institutes of Health estimates that between 44,000 and 98,000 die in the US each year from preventable diseases. In many cases, we’re killing ourselves. Today, let’s be reminded that admitting our need for God and surrendering our lives to Him is always the first step to healing any destructive habit we may have. Let God help you today. Putting Him first in your life is the only way to true satisfaction. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

I was running late to work the other morning. And- It always feels like the more I’m in a rush, the more things go wrong. I almost forgot my phone, I spilled my coffee on the way out the door, and realized halfway down my street that I left my work keys on the table. Not off to a great start. Once I settled into the horrific Atlanta traffic I was stuck behind a car going way too slow in the fast lane who left their turn signal on for the last mile. How could they be so clueless? I just need this airhead to get out of my way and… I then noticed I had left my turn signal on too. That was a nice practice in humility. The next time you feel a bad mood like this coming on- don’t let it spill onto others. Recognize it and ask God to calm and quiet your spirit. Nothing that went wrong on this morning was the end of the world. Keep it in perspective- and yeah- don’t forget to cancel your turn signal. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Research shows that the strongest sources of happiness are the people in our lives. Social support is one of the most important predictors of whether people are happy. Humans long to connect with other people. We can all remember how much COVID taught us- that we need each other! Christian author Philip Yancey wrote a book called “Church: Why Bother?” in which he discusses the community in relation to faith. He said, “Christianity is not purely intellectually, internal faith. It can only be lived out in community.” The author of the book of Hebrews also says And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another. We’re designed to be spiritual beings that also need social support. So when it comes to church, by all means do bother to go! Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Many sports fans might accuse a player of not having their heart in the game when their intensity doesn’t match the intensity of the game. So much so that I’ve heard people complain that the Superbowl is rigged when they see a player not live up to expectations. It’s not always easy but God calls us to be all in for Him. In Matthew chapter 16, Jesus calls us to be fully surrendered in our faith. Maybe lately you’ve been only dipping a toe in with God. One foot in the door and the other holding onto things of this world. Be a follower of Christ who is completely and fully surrendered to Him and what He’s called you to do. To love Him and love others. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

There’s a difference between renovation and restoration. If you’re renovating, it usually means you’re upgrading, changing the style- making something new and different. A renovation might be starting with an old house, that’s not necessarily historic, and repairing and upgrading it into 2024. But to restore a home- means you are bringing it back to its original condition. 1st Peter chapter 5 says that the God of all grace, who has called you to His eternal glory in Christ, will Himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you. God doesn’t want to renovate. He loves who you are. Instead- He wants to restore us back to our original place of relationship with Him. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

There are some things in this world our minds have a hard time comprehending. Have you ever been to the Grand Canyon? Everywhere you look your brain is almost convinced it’s just a picture. The enormous scale is just too much to grasp. Or what about the distance between the Earth and the Moon? Or the size of an atom? Like these incredible examples of scale, we can only imagine a fraction of God’s love. If you’re going through a tough time and struggling to see how God is working in your life- realize that we can barely grasp the size of a mountain let alone the mind of the Creator of the Universe. His love for you is beyond measure. He gave up His throne to become one of us and die in our place. That’s a love beyond comprehension. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Geneen Roth has written best-selling books on emotional eating. In an article called “The Treat Trap,” she reminds us that in troubled times sweets seem to offer immediate relief; but unfortunately, their “fix” doesn’t last. The sweetness of chocolate lasts for a mere 30 seconds and after we’ve indulged, the original problem is still there. Then we have an additional problem: the guilt of an unhealthy indulgence on top of the original stressor. Guilty pleasures, even when sweet, ultimately leave a bad taste. If you find yourself looking for unhealthy distractions when you’re dealing with a stressful situation- Avoid the treat trap! Instead of turning to chocolate, why not turn to God? Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Learning to play the guitar comes with some pain in the beginning. It takes time to build up calluses on your fingers. Calluses are thick layers of skin that build up over time. And in the case of a guitarist are necessary to properly hold chords without pain. Like a guitarist’s fingertips our hearts can become calloused. Through tough times and trials, some people become bitter. They have a harder time seeing the good in their lives and develop a hardened heart towards God. If this sounds like you, I’m praying you can pause and ask God to soften your heart. Be open to allowing Him to show you all the blessings in your life and how you can bless others. Over time, that calloused heart can learn joy all over again. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Most tasting rooms in California involve wine, but at Laura Parker’s Taste of Place events in the Bay Area, you’ll find yourself with a glass of…. dirt. The idea is to smell soil from local farms, then eat the produce grown in the same soil so you can see how the aromas in the dirt affect the flavor of the food. During this sampling many have said that you can actually taste the pasture that the goats ate in the cheese made from their milk. How cool? In the Bible, 2nd Corinthians 2:15 says that we should be the aroma of Christ to those who don’t know Him. So, with that in mind- What fragrance does your life emit? Hopefully your “aroma” causes others to discover what the Bible says about the Lord – “taste and see that God is good!” Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In the book of Ruth in the Bible, Ruth was a literal outsider. But Naomi felt like an outsider. Although she was a part of God’s family by birth, she felt like she had been abandoned by Him. Do you ever feel like the odd one in a group? Even within your faith? Maybe you’ve sat in a Bible study before and thought “I don’t belong here”. When we compare our lives to others, including within the church, we may feel like an outsider. Maybe it’s your current circumstances. And while everyone else is feeling “hashtag blessed”, your world feels like it’s falling apart. The comparison trap is real. And if we compare ourselves with the version people want you to see of themselves, we will often fall short. In the Bible, Naomi seems cynical, which makes her happy ending even sweeter. When you’re feeling like an outsider, remember that perseverance can lead to a renewed faith. Maybe you need to make some changes like Naomi did. But no matter what, God will remain faithful. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Research shows that we get a “lift” from giving. In fact, MRI studies show that providing for other people activates the brain’s ventral striatum, the region that lights up in response to pleasurable experiences such as seeing an attractive person or winning a prize. Scientists are finding that helping others may be as primal or basic a human pleasure as food. In the book of Acts, the Apostle Paul remembers the words of our Savior. He said; “In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’ Well, it turns, He’s right! Do you need a lift today? Why not follow Jesus’ wisdom and give of yourself to someone who is in need? Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

What quotes do you often hear that people claim are scripture yet you know otherwise? One that I can’t stand is, “God helps those who help themselves.” Many are 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 help- and… us to help them. In the Bible, 2nd Corinthians, chapter 11, 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.

Our sun gives off more energy in one second than all mankind has produced since creation began. With a diameter of approximately 860,000 miles, the sun could hold one million planets the size of the Earth. The rate at which its energy is emitted is equivalent to the energy coming from a furnace at a temperature of about 10,340 degrees Fahrenheit. This is one magnificent creation that truly, points to an all-powerful Creator God! And friends, His incomparably great power is at work in you! So know this today: if you have the Son spelled with an ‘O,’ you have far more power than the sun that spelled with a ‘U!’ 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.” Too often the Christian life is seen as a passive existence, but these words show that it’s quite the opposite. Our faith should lead us to not just believe but “do”. How is your community better because you’re in it? The old saying that “you may be the only Bible some people read” is still so true. So, let this be an encouragement to find opportunities around you to volunteer, to help your neighbor and be the hands and feet of our Savior as we strain to reach the end of the race. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

When Bose introduced their Acoustic Wave Music System in 1984, Sound & Vision Magazine said that it delivered “possibly the best reproduced sound many people have ever heard.” Since then, we now have companies like Sonos, Denon, and of course Apple, who are constantly striving for the best possible audio. Sound has a tremendous effect on people. This is why in the Bible, in 1st Corinthians 14:7, the Apostle Paul says that we who are Christians are like musical instruments. If we don’t make the right sounds no one will understand what they mean. If you’re a Christian today, you’re announcers, instruments, and sound systems for the Kingdom. Is God happy with the quality of your sound? Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

I was at my friend’s house this weekend for dinner. They now have a very cute, 6-month-old puppy named Lucy and they were showing off her tricks. My friend would say sit- and she sat. Lay, and she laid. My friend turned to me and said, “we’ve been working on this one”. He turned back to Lucy and said “roll over!”. But Lucy just gave him a blank stare. He shrugged and said, “Well. I guess she hasn’t learned that one yet”. My friend wasn’t upset with her for not rolling over. He just accepted that there’s still more to learn. Just like Lucy- we’re constantly in the process of growing up in Christ. We don’t know it all yet and that’s ok. Mistakes are likely but we have a God of grace and love who will be patient with us. The next time you’re going through a confusing and hard time, remember that you’re a work in progress. Maybe God is in the middle of teaching you something you have yet to learn. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Solar Star is the largest solar farm in the US and one of the largest in the world. This plant has 1.7 million solar panels spread across Los Angeles and Kern Counties in California. Each of these panels can take the energy from a glowing ball 92 million miles away whose surface temperature reaches 10,000 degrees Fahrenheit and turn it into usable energy for over 250,000 homes. In the Bible, 2nd Corinthians 3:18 tells us that our faces are to reflect God’s glory. It says, “And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.” So, my friends, shine on! Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

James Allen, author of the book “As A Man Thinketh”, says: “All that you accomplish or fail to accomplish with your life is the direct result of your thoughts. You are today where your thoughts have brought you; you will be tomorrow where your thoughts take you.” Likewise, in the Bible, King Solomon said, in Proverbs 4:23, “Be careful what you think, because your thoughts run your life.” He also said, in Proverbs 23:7, “As a man thinks in his heart, so is he.” Do you constantly think negatively of yourself or your circumstances? Our thoughts are so powerful. Our internal dialog has a profound impact on the person we live outwardly. Scripture makes it clear: you ARE what you THINK. And what you THINK, you ARE. So guard your thoughts; they determine your destiny! Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

How often do you find yourself in the comparison trap? Do you ever see someone with a nicer car, bigger house, fancier clothes and think, “must be nice”. But the truth is, we’ve never walked a mile in their shoes- we don’t know the circumstances that brought them to where they are and there will always be someone else looking to you with the same thought- “must be nice to be you too”. How do we release ourselves from these trappings? The Apostle Paul says in Philippians chapter 4, “I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength.” Rather than the constant stress of keeping up with everyone else- breathe in the peace that Paul describes. Learn to be content. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

If you’re a homeowner, when was the last time you replaced your air conditioning filter? AC filters remove harsh chemicals and allergens- making the air safer to breathe. Water filters remove nitrates, bacteria, sodium and heavy metals. We use all kinds of filters in our homes and cars to make them safer for our families. Like these filters, self-examination and repentance help us remove habits and things in our lives that would otherwise cause us harm. Regular, honest and open conversations with God can highlight areas in our lives that are in need of improvement- and sometimes filtering. So, it might be time to replace that air filter- and it might be time for some repentance. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

I went hiking with a group of friends recently on a mountain I hadn’t been to before. The trail wasn’t steep at all- but the hike was long. After about an hour or so we turned around a bend and the trees opened up to show us an incredible view. We were at the top! It was such a mild slope that I hadn’t realized how high we had climbed. That feels like life sometimes huh? Maybe you’re in a difficult season of life. You feel like you’re getting nowhere no matter how long you’ve been on this journey. But maybe you aren’t as far from the summit as you think. This is the part of your journey God is using for a purpose. Trust that God has a plan for your life and keep moving. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Someone wisely once said, “Dream like you’ll live forever. Live like you’ll die today.” That might sound intense but it’s great advice; The question is- HOW do you live each day with that degree of meaning, focus and purpose? Have you ever heard or read the Latin phrase, “Coram Deo?” Coram Deo refers to something that takes place in the presence of God, or before the face of God. The theologian, R.C. Sproul says, “To live Coram Deo is to live one’s entire life in the presence of God, under the authority of God, to the glory of God.” I like that! To live before the face of God. To live like that definitely sounds like a way to dream like you’ll live forever, and live like you’ll die today. So, go and make the most of today! Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

If you’ve attended church for a while- what do you picture when you hear “Discipleship Group”? Is it a group of people who meet once a week with pizza and a specific curriculum? In Christ, discipleship is people leading each other towards Christ. It’s accountability, praying for each other and bearing each other’s burdens. You may already be a part of a group like this without knowing! Maybe you have a close group of friends who text each other all day. Mostly ridiculous memes and jokes. But maybe it’s time for you to be the one to step out and discuss something more serious. Ask for prayer for something you’re going through. Chances are everyone else needs the same thing. Walk with each other spiritually and hold each other up. This is discipleship at its best. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

If you’re anything like me, my days can get so busy- before I’ve realized it, I’ve been stressed about something all day- and never paused to pray about it! On days like these when you feel like you can barely catch your breath- my advice to you is to just- pray. You thought I was going to say breathe didn’t you? Well- you’ll do that too. A breath prayer is a simple way to interact with God for just a moment. Some believe breath prayers have been around since the early church. They are short, simple praises or requests coinciding with a nice, deep breath. Maybe it’s just, “Dear God, give me strength. Or, “Please give my family peace in this hard time.” The truth is, what you say has less importance than the posture in which you say it. So, the next time you feel like the day and your stress-level is getting away from you, pause, breathe, and pray. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Think of the last really good action movie you saw. The car chases, the crazy parkour moves, the fight scenes… Chances are, the actors you know aren’t actually doing these stunts themselves. Instead, movies rely on body doubles to make these crazy stunts happen safely. A body double is similar in height and appearance- wears the same clothes and even learns to walk the same way as the actor they are imitating. Likewise, as Christians- we are to be the “body double” of Christ on earth. As we learn of His character in scripture, we learn how to imitate His behavior to a world in desperate need of Christ-like love. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

It’s no secret that poor posture will eventually result in preventable back pain. Our neck muscles tighten, and we start holding a lot of stress in our shoulders too. We simply “forget” to stop slouching and to sit upright. So, a company has created a small gadget that you clip onto your shirt. It analyzes spinal positions and buzzes when your posture needs to be corrected. That’s crazy right?! But just as we can get lazy with our physical posture, we can do the very same thing spiritually. Let this message be a reminder – Psalm 84:11 says, “No good thing will God withhold from those who walk uprightly.” So, sit and walk uprightly. No more slouching. And keep both your back and your soul in alignment. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In a study of 37 cultures around the world, 16,000 people were asked about their most desired traits in a mate. Out of all the responses, the first preference was kindness. Above looks, wealth, or intelligence! Kindness is a deep-seated human value and is considered a virtue in most cultures and religions. Part of the biblical definition of kindness includes usefulness, making it clear that being kind involves action. 1st John 3:18 says, “Let’s stop just saying we love each other; let’s really show it by our actions.” Random acts of kindness have become popular as spontaneous actions focused on encouraging others. What can you do today to put kindness into action? Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

It’s been over 500 years since the great artist, Michelangelo painted his famous frescoes on the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel. But did you know that when he was first asked to undertake the project, he didn’t want the job? He thought it was beneath him! And yet, this incredible work ended up being his biggest legacy and most famous work of his career. Sometimes opportunities come to us disguised as projects that we’d rather not waste our time with. But in Jeremiah 29:11 God says this to us, “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.” You might be facing an opportunity that, on the surface- is beneath you. But we must always remember that God may have a bigger and better plan. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

St. Patrick was a remarkable man who chose to live among what society considered barbaric people, the Celts. The Celts were known for their violent tendencies, bold behavior, and engagement in ritualistic human sacrifices. In his earlier years, Patrick had been enslaved by the Celts. But eventually, he managed to escape captivity, and during his newfound freedom, he felt a profound calling to return to his captors and introduce them to Christianity. He was already well-known among the Celts, so they were fully aware of the risks he faced by coming back to them. The driving force behind Patrick's mission was his desire to introduce this community to a God who could inspire a man to willingly face imminent danger. This powerful revelation led the Celts to turn away from their false gods. Much like in 1st Kings, God again proved to be far more than the little gods humans have made for themselves. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Aretha Franklin, the Queen of Soul, once told a story about returning to her home soon after she’d found her fame in New York City. When her family began to do the household chores, her father asked her why she wasn’t participating. “I’m a star,” she protested. Her father brought her down to size, and sent her to mop the kitchen floor. That was a lesson in humility she carried with her and never forgot. The Bible teaches us to consider others better than ourselves. Philippians chapter 2 says, “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.” In a world where everyone seems to want to be number one, God asks us to go against the grain and serve others. Even Jesus, the Son of God, was a humble servant, according to Philippians 2. So, are you ready to mop the floor? Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

The 1800’s philosopher, Fredrich Nietzsche (NEE-chuh) said, “What doesn’t destroy me, makes me stronger.” Researchers put that old saying to the test. They found that people who had experienced events of adversity reported better mental health and well-being than people with no history of misfortune. It seems that exposure to adversity promotes better resilience and higher life satisfaction. This is not surprising! The Bible tells us that adversity is how God makes us stronger and matures our faith. James chapter 1 says “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.” So put your trust in God and let the tough times in life toughen you and your faith! Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In her book “Learning to Walk in the Dark,” Barbara Brown Taylor writes about her exploration of Organ Cave. In the darkest part, a beautiful rock full of tiny crystals resembling glitter caught her eye. She put it in her backpack as a souvenir. Later, back in her room, Taylor pulled out the rock anticipating miniature fireworks; but instead, it looked more like an ordinary piece of gravel! The rock’s “light” was a treasure only in the dark. In the Bible, Isaiah 45:3 says, “I will give you the treasures of darkness- riches stored in secret places, so that you may know that I am the Lord” So, if you find yourself in a dark place today, just know that there are some treasures that can only be revealed to you there. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Mark Twain once said, “My life has been filled with calamities, some of which actually happened.” We laugh at his comment, because we can see ourselves in it. But “worry” is no joke. It causes serious problems: physiologically, emotionally, and spiritually. Most of our stress comes from worrying about things that might happen in the future; and yet, research shows that 85 percent of what we worry about never happens. This means that only 15 percent of all that you worry about is even worth it. What a waste! The Bible tells us not to worry. 1st Peter, chapter 5 says to cast all your anxieties onto God because He cares for you. God knows our needs. He cares and He will provide. So enjoy today and leave tomorrow in His hands! Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

A weigh station is a checkpoint along a highway equipped with large scales to inspect the weight of trucks. This is to ensure it’s not overweight and is compliant with state laws and safety guidelines. God’s Word, the Bible, is a checkpoint along life’s highway to inspect the weight of your mind, body, spirit, and soul. Life is often metaphorically described as a long-distance race and Hebrews 12:1 tells us to “strip off every weight that slows us down.” So, what are you carrying around with you that’s heavy and cumbersome? What’s slowing you down? Allow the encouragement of scripture to show you what you need to let go of and leave behind. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Think about the difference between the mighty oak tree and a quickly growing plant like a tomato. The oak tree grows slowly, it sends roots deep into the soil that will enable it to withstand strong storms, hot summers and cold winters. It eventually provides shade and a habitat for wildlife. However, the tomato plant grows quickly but doesn’t even last through the winter. Our faith is much like the oak tree. It takes time. It takes life lived to grow a deeper understanding of who God is in your life and it takes time to learn His voice. As your roots grow deeper into the things of God, you too become stronger and more resilient to the storms in life. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

A friend of mine’s grandmother passed away recently. And sadly, in one of the last conversations he had with her she stated that she just hoped she’d been good enough to get into heaven. What does “good enough” even look like? The comedian, Mike Atkinson once said, “If you can get through the day without coffee, if you can always be cheerful, if you can resist complaining, if you have never lied; well, my friend, then you’re almost as good as your dog.” In Mark, chapter seven, Jesus talks about what’s inside a person’s heart that makes them clean or unclean. Not outward performance. As a new creation in Christ, our behavior should transform because we are allowing the holy spirit to shape our minds to be more like Jesus. No one is simply “good enough” to not need His undeserved Grace. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

One of my biggest pet peeves is seeing someone littering. When I see someone throwing trash out of a car window, it drives me crazy to see someone disrespecting the environment like that. God gave us this beautiful planet, and He wants us to be good stewards over it. We find ourselves asking God for things we desire, but if He can’t trust us with taking care of what He’s already given us, why should we expect more? God knows our needs, and it’s His good pleasure to meet our needs (and even some of our wants) according to His will. But let’s be gracious and thankful for what He’s already given us by taking care of this beautiful garden called planet earth. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Rather than focusing on scientific details of the origin of life, the book of Genesis focuses on sharing the world’s purpose and how it’s meant to function. The author, John Walton, says that the book of Genesis is telling us how God turned this house into a home. When you go to a friend’s house, you aren’t concerned with how the foundation was poured or the layout of the plumbing. You’re more interested in how this space is used to bring loved ones together. In other words, you’re less focused on the “how” and more focused on the “why” of the house. The book of Genesis is not a science textbook. It’s the first in a collection that share the story of God and His people. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Matthew, chapter six verse six says: But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. These are important words from Jesus. He’s about halfway through His most famous message we now know as the sermon on the mount- and had spoken clearly on the kind of behavior and heart of a person that makes someone blessed. When you pray publicly for the attention and respect of people… you get what you pray for. God wants people to worship him authentically. No pretense, just spirit and truth. Private prayer with no audience but God is about as authentic as it gets. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

As Jesus was doing the will of His Father; gathering His disciples, renaming some of them, healing the sick, ministering to the poor, preaching to the crowds… Mark chapter three says that when His friends heard of this, they tried to hold him back because they thought he had lost his mind. Kingdom living often looks quite strange to the rest of the world. What has God called you to do, that you’ve dared to do, that isn’t making you popular among your friends? Maybe you’re the one who’s quick to forgive, to lend a helping hand, to see the good and not the bad. Whatever it is, remember, Jesus didn't let His critics stop Him and either should you. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In Luke, chapter 22, Jesus is breaking bread with his disciples for the last time. After he gives thanks for the meal, he says to them, “This is my body given for you; do this in remembrance of me”. Now this has become a beautiful sacramental expression of faith in the Christian Church, The Lord’s Supper. A sacred moment as we gather for a meal to pause and remember Christ. However, this doesn’t have to be the only sacred moment in your day. When we’re at our best, we should see all of life as a sacrament. When something is sacred, you recognize its connection with God. A walk-through nature, time with your spouse, or your kids. How do you recognize and remember Christ throughout your day? Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Have you ever been in that place where you have to choose between what God has instructed you to do and what you think you should do? Maybe it’s how you WANT to react to someone who has mistreated you. The human reaction and the Godly reaction are quite different. If you’ve been in this place before, don’t feel bad, me too. You either appear weak in someone else’s eyes, or you walk in complete obedience to God. Keep in mind, that God knows the plans He has for you. His instructions at this moment and in this season are for a reason. What has God asked you to do that you are yet to do? Could you be delaying your blessing or your breakthrough? Choose wisely in this season and watch what our Father will do for you. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Fear is a natural, chemical reaction in our brains. The amygdala is a part of the brain that activates when we sense a threat and causes the body to have a physical response. However, the hippocampus is a part of our brain that then helps our brains interpret the threat. So, if we were to see a T Rex coming towards us, we may instinctively be afraid, but, that fear is tempered by us knowing it’s just a movie. This tempering of fear is the job of our faith. It’s a filter through which we view our world, fearful events and circumstances- reminding us that no matter what we see, God is in control. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

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.