Heartbeat

Researchers asked a group of people to make a list, once a week for ten weeks, of five things they were thankful for. Other groups in the study wrote different kinds of weekly lists, such as five key events. The “thankful” group felt more happiness, excitement, and joy than the other groups. They even reported better physical health – fewer headaches and coughs. Paul tells the Colossians in chapter 2 that they should continue to live in Christ, strengthened in their faith and overflowing with thankfulness. So, try this out! Make a list today of things God has given you to be thankful for. You’ll probably feel better! Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Still sleepy, you roll over to check the time. You look at your phone only to realize you never set the alarm! And now it’s 5 minutes before you’re supposed to be at work! Do you know that feeling of defeat as you hurry to make yourself presentable for your already delayed day? In much the same way, people everywhere are missing their “spiritual alarms.” God is at work all around them, yet they remain oblivious to God’s leading and guidance. If this is you, WAKE UP! Don’t miss the opportunity to see God in action! Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Counterfeiting is a serious problem in our country. It‘s been estimated that American businesses lose more than 250 billion dollars annually because of it. In 2021 the U.S. Customs and Border Protection made more than 13,000 seizures of counterfeit goods. And believe it or not, footwear comprised 40% of those fake items. Thousands of people are walking around in counterfeit shoes! The Bible says that if we claim to have fellowship with God and yet walk in darkness, we lie and do not live by the truth. It might be easy to fool people with fake shoes, but it is impossible to fool God with a counterfeit faith. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In ancient Jerusalem, a Rabbi’s teachings were called his “yoke.” His people sat under his teaching while quote- “clothing” themselves in his words. In the Bible, in Matthew 11:29 Jesus tells His disciples, “Come unto me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart and you will find rest for your souls.” How good does that sound? Isn’t that what so many of us want? Not just sleep, but rest for our souls – a place to put our burdens. Today, “clothe yourself” with Christ’s teachings, begin to take on His character, and learn to trust Him with your burdens. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

We have 100,000 to 150,000 hairs on our heads, and we spend a great deal of time and money on them. In fact, in the United States, we spend about $7.5 billion dollars a year on our hair. We frequent salons for cuts, styles, perms, highlights, and color. We buy blow dryers, curling irons, and flat irons. We routinely use shampoos and conditioners, moisturizers and pomades, sprays and gels. We obviously care about our hair. But as much as we care about our own, God cares even more. The Bible tells us that even the very hairs on our head are numbered. He knows you that well. How well do you know Him? Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

If you’re even remotely handy, I’m sure you have a tool drawer if not a proper toolbox in your house. If you’re hanging a picture, you know where to find a hammer. If the hinges to a door are loose, you know where to find a screwdriver. You know right where to look to find the perfect tool for the job. Our relationship with scripture should be like this too. Maybe you’re struggling with a relationship- read 1st Peter chapter 4. Or maybe you’re looking for wisdom about your finances; try Romans 13. Or maybe you’re grieving the loss of a loved one. The Bible is full of encouraging words like Psalm 34: “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit”. When your spirit is in need of repair, turn to the Word of God and let it be a toolbox for life. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

You’re driving to work on your usual route when you see the dreaded sign- “Road Closed ahead”. There’s a detour. This seems like a plot to ruin your plans. It’s only after you pass the roadblock that you understand the reason for the detour. In the Bible God tells us, “For I know the plans I have for you, plans to prosper you and not to harm you.” How many detours have you taken in life? 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. When you encounter a detour in life, will you thank God for the opportunity to drive down the safer road that He offers? Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Have you heard the expression: "The calm after the storm?” We may think of the anxiety-filled calm as we wait and watch as another hurricane looms close to shore. But what about the calm in its wake? After the storm, the survivors have to make a great effort to rebuild and recover the valuable things they lost during the storm. And do it while grieving for the family and friends they’ve lost. And all this can lead to an existential, emotional and spiritual crisis. However, after the storm a rainbow appears as well. As a symbol of hope. Jesus is our hope. And He helps us face trials and be victorious. If you’re recovering from a physical or spiritual storm, trust in God. Only then can we rebuild. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In the culinary world, there is no greater honor than to receive a Michelin star. This system awards chefs and restaurants with 1 to 3 stars. But even earning one is an incredible achievement. From the food and presentation, to the arrangement of silverware on the table and the knowledge of the wait staff- everything is taken into consideration. However, while there are Michelin star chefs, there are no Michelin starred servers. In the Kingdom of God, we all have a calling. Not everyone is called to be the pastor or worship leader. But whether your role is out front or quietly feeding the hungry, every believer is called to bring the Kingdom to our communities. While you may not have a Michelin star, even the little things are noticed by God. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

A few years ago, I had the opportunity to host a breakout session at a Salvation Army Youth camp about evangelism. After the session a young guy stayed back and poured out his heart to me. He had recently given His life to Christ, but his family didn’t believe like him. He had been arguing with his sisters about how to quote “properly be baptized” and whether or not a Christian should celebrate Christmas. I could tell that all of this confusion and friction in his home was hurting him. But in this moment, I feel that God gave me the words to tell this kid to breathe and be at peace with God. Look, we don’t have to have all our theology figured out the day we accept Christ. Throughout the New Testament we see our Bible heroes working out their theology as well. For a ton of encouragement, I think the Apostle Paul says it beautifully in Philippians chapter 2. So, if this is you- go find this scripture and be blessed. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

What scares you the most? Common answers may be spiders, snakes, or heights. But according to a recent study by Chapman University what people are often afraid of the most is related to other people. Corrupt government officials, home invasions, or fears that we’ll lose a loved one. If any of these fears keep you up at night- you’re not alone, but here’s some good news. The God of the heavens and the earth is not a God of fear. In fact, the term, “Do not be afraid” appears over and over in the Bible. Listen to these words from Psalm 112 “Surely the righteous will never be shaken; they will be remembered forever. They will have no fear of bad news; their hearts are steadfast, trusting in the Lord.” Sure, we’re all afraid of something, but when worry weighs you down, remember these words “The righteous will never be shaken” Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

If you follow sports, who is your favorite team? I think especially in soccer and American football you’ll meet some of the most loyal fans in all of sports. You see their dedication in their conversations, clothes, bumper stickers- you name it. There is no doubt what team they’re rooting for. Could someone say the same about your love and dedication to your Savior? I’m not saying we all need a “honk if you love Jesus” bumper sticker. But can people tell who you follow by your conversations, actions, and love? The old saying that you may be the only Bible some ever read is so true. You may never know how much of an impact a simple gesture or conversation you had with someone in the name of Jesus had on their life. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

A terrifying night, with burning torches, crossing swords and, of course, a friend's traitorous kiss. The most dramatic scene in the Bible is in the Garden of Gethsemane. Judas is synonymous with betrayal. You can disagree with me; But I don’t believe that Judas was created for this purpose. It wasn’t his destiny to willingly betray the Son of God. God loved Judas, the same way he loves you and me. But Luke 22:3 tells us, "Then Satan entered Judas Iscariot." And not because Judas was evil, but because even as a disciple of Jesus, he was vulnerable to the enemy. And we’re vulnerable too. But through prayer and communion with God, we can strengthen ourselves spiritually and defeat the enemy. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Throughout the Bible we see the seas parting, bread falling from heaven, the dead brought to life and thousands fed from a boy’s lunch. People often ask why we don’t see miracles like this today. Sure, miracles happen every day, but none more obvious than a man walking on water. So, is my life insignificant if I can't walk around performing miracles? The Bible is a collection of books filled with familiar themes. The issues the Word of God addresses are anything but insignificant. Love, sacrifice, family, war, etc. These are issues that we still live with today and that our children and their children will experience. Remember that your life, while it may seem repetitive, has something special to offer, because we were created on principles of love and made in the image of God, and that is already a miracle in itself. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Is your relationship with God like a spare tire? You only look for Him in emergencies? Or like a doctor? And you reach out to him when you’re ill? Or- is He more like the air you breathe? And you depend on Him constantly. In the Bible, Rehoboam's spiritual life was like a spare tire, when things went wrong, he looked for God, when they went well, he forgot about Him. Like the words of the Prophet Hosea, “I fed them, and they were full, and once satisfied, they became arrogant and forgot about me.” If at the moment, things are going well for you; you have food, you’re in good health; I advise you to remember where every good and perfect gift comes from. Don’t wait to have a relationship with God when things go wrong. Praise Him in the storm and in the sunshine. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

If you’ve ever had an injury that required some form of physical therapy, chances are that you were helped by someone who studied Kinesiology. This is the study of mechanics and anatomy of human movement. These physical therapists won’t force your body to move but will guide and encourage a better range of motion as you heal. This is much like how God interacts with us. As we allow ourselves to be shaped by Him and become more like Christ- He will never force us to behave in a particular way but instead, as we learn His voice- will gently guide and encourage our steps. If you’re looking for direction, be in prayer and listen to His quiet invitation to move. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

If we know the purpose of our life, if we know both- where we came from and where we’re going. Then we’re prepared to be instruments in the hands of Almighty God. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Don’t be afraid to discuss difficult topics with a fellow Christian. But, use wisdom, empathy and timing in your conversation to help each other grow. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Do you feel lost in life now? Lacking direction? The good news is that God already has a plan for your life. Ask our Heavenly Father for wisdom and He will help you get back on track. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

To be the best version of yourself you can be, guard your time to rest, recover and spend time with your Heavenly Father. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

How do we place a value on ourselves? If social media has something to say about it- it’s in likes and follows, right? Don’t let outside forces tell you your worth. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

What we focus on in our minds becomes a playlist about what we hope to accomplish. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, it may be time to take a step back and see if there’s anything you’re juggling that you should let go of- or pass on to someone else. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

If you’re hoping money will fix all of your struggles- reach out to our Heavenly Father instead. In Christ, He can introduce you- not to fleeting happiness, but true joy. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

If you’re struggling with an addiction or destructive habit- worry less about the opinions of others. Stay close to the one who knows everything and is willing to set you free! Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Let’s embrace these qualities laid out for us by the Apostle Paul. Don’t judge your worth based on qualities the world finds valuable. Instead- know your worth as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Every trial God has helped us work through has made us stronger and more reliant on our Heavenly Father. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

But, among everything that changes, there is something that doesn’t: God. God never changes. The same God who spoke the universe into existence knows the very hairs on your head. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

When was the last time you had a long conversation with God that didn’t include a plea for a “quick fix” to your problems? Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Maybe you want to start working out- try doing just a 2-minute run. Maybe you want to start reading your Bible more- make time to read for just two minutes a day and see where it leads. With prayer and dedication, these small habits will become your new routine. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

One of the most powerful ways we can make an impact in this world starts in our own homes. Create an atmosphere of love to keep your kids emotionally stable and secure. Teach them to appreciate and respect the deep values that glorify our Heavenly Father. Your kids are watching. Be an example worthy of being imitated. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Hebrews 12 says to fix our attention on Jesus. When we fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, the distractions will fade away. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Are you being careful with your words? And more importantly- are you being careful about what you are asking of the Lord? Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Life has a way of throwing us curveballs. But time and time again, God uses our setbacks for a setup for blessings. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

The same God who made the universe made the tiny insect. God cares about the big things in our lives and the mundane. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Are you lost at sea spiritually? It’s our prayer that God begins to show you the light of a new day. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Are you a planner? Do you constantly tell God your plans? Or are you listening to His plan for your life? Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

We can learn a lot from the culture of farmers. Most industries are cutthroat and it’s every man for themselves. This looks much different than the Kingdom of God. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Do we recognize the difference between an acquaintance and a friend? Jesus calls us His friends. Not acquaintances. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

When our theology doesn’t show up in our actions, this dissonance doesn’t mix with who we are in Christ. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Are you critical of others while being blind to your own shortcomings? Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Our rewards are Kingdom rewards. Be selfless in showing unrestrained grace to the world around you. https://salvationarmysoundcast.org/heartbeat Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Justice said we were guilty in our sin. But in God's Mercy and Grace, He took our place. https://salvationarmysoundcast.org/heartbeat Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In the words of Maya Angelou, “Do the best you can until you know better”- So, don’t sweat the small stuff. https://salvationarmysoundcast.org/heartbeat Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Hope is a powerful thing. It inspires us and encourages us to carry on during difficult times. https://salvationarmysoundcast.org/heartbeat Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Be the superhero of a parent you are but make sure you take time for yourself in the word, with your Savior; and find moments of peace just for you. https://salvationarmysoundcast.org/heartbeat Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Don’t discount your parents’ advice so quickly. Chances are they can relate more than you think. https://salvationarmysoundcast.org/heartbeat Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

What emotional baggage is weighing you down? https://salvationarmysoundcast.org/heartbeat Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Maybe God is calling you to preach or is calling you into ministry. This can look different for everyone. https://salvationarmysoundcast.org/heartbeat Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

It is so important to be in the word. Don’t just rely on someone else’s interpretation of the scriptures. https://salvationarmysoundcast.org/heartbeat Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.