Live Free with Josh Howerton

Have you ever thought about how pride can quietly ruin our lives and relationships? In the first episode of the Live Free with Josh Howerton Podcast, we dive into the effects of pride and humility, kicking off the Kingslayers sermon series. We start by reflecting on the powerful moments from a recent Night of Prayer and Worship at Lakepointe Church, where we saw God move in amazing ways. This sets the tone for our discussion, where we look at Nebuchadnezzar's story in Daniel 4 and how pride brought him down. We talk about how pride is the ultimate "Kingslayer" and how it’s just as dangerous for us today. Along the way, we discuss how pride plays a role in marriage, entitlement, and even anxiety. We explore how these issues can stem from a sense of self-importance and how humility can transform our relationships and mental well-being. Throughout the episode, we offer practical ways to fight pride, focusing on gratitude, humility, and spiritual practices like prayer and worship. We also highlight the importance of community, service, and having a servant’s heart—just like Jesus did. By the end of the episode, we hope you'll be inspired to embrace humility, experience true freedom, and connect with the Lakepointe community. If you're ready to build deeper relationships, join a Life Group at Lakepointe Church—learn more at https://lakepointe.church/groups/ - STAY CONNECTED - Website: https://www.lakepointe.church/ Facebook: https://lp.social/facebook Instagram: https://lp.social/instagram To support this ministry and help us continue to reach more people with the Gospel, click here: https://lakepointe.church/give

Welcome to Live Free with Pastor Josh Howerton. Lakepointe Church is a movement for all people to Know Jesus, Live Free, and Make a Difference with their lives. Through deep dives into God’s Word, our prayer is that these conversations will equip you to live free in Christ. This is a test drive, and we’ll decide whether or not to do more seasons based on engagement, so if this is helpful to you, if you could rate, review or share, that will let us know it’s helpful. For more digital content, visit https://lakepointe.church/digital/ - STAY CONNECTED - Website: https://www.lakepointe.church/ Facebook: https://lp.social/facebook Instagram: https://lp.social/instagram To support this ministry and help us continue to reach more people with the Gospel, click here: https://lakepointe.church/give

Have you ever thought of breathing as a gift from God? In this final episode of The Daily Drive for 2024, Pastor Breaux shares a heartfelt reflection about winter, Christmas, and the title of Jesus that means the most to him: Emmanuel, "God with us." Even in the cold, dark seasons of life, we are reminded of God’s closeness—just a breath away. With each exhale, we can see evidence of His presence, proof of His proximity. Take a deep breath this Christmas season and remember that the breath of the everlasting God rests in your lungs, waiting to bring His light into the darkness. ➡️ For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

What does it mean to seek God? In Athens, Paul meets a culture full of idols and introduces them to the “unknown God”—the Creator who gives life and breath to everything. Pastor Breaux shares how Paul met people where they were, inviting them to seek the God who is not far from any of us. Today, let’s stand by the door, ready to guide others to the God who gives us life and hope. ➡️ For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

How do you respond when life feels like a prison? In Acts 16, Paul and Silas show us the power of worship and prayer even in the darkest moments. After being beaten and shackled for their faith, they sang praises to God at midnight, leading to a miraculous prison break and the transformation of a jailer’s entire family. Join us as Pastor Breaux shares how God’s power can set us free and use our struggles to bring others closer to Him. ➡️ For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

What happens when religious traditions clash with the gospel of grace? Today, Pastor Breaux unpacks Acts 15, where the early church faced a pivotal moment. Some Jewish believers wanted to impose old rituals on Gentile converts, but Peter, Paul, and James affirmed that salvation is through faith in Jesus alone—Jesus plus nothing else. This decision brought great joy to the church and set the foundation for how we approach faith today. ➡️ For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

Does faith always lead to miracles? In today’s episode, Pastor Breaux walks through the story of Paul and Barnabas in Lystra, where faith led to the miraculous healing of a man who had never walked. While faith doesn’t always produce a miracle, it always precedes one. Paul reminds us to trust in the greater miracle—the new life Jesus offers. However, the miraculous moment led to challenges, as Paul and Barnabas were mistaken for gods and faced persecution. Even so, they pressed on, preaching the good news and walking by faith. ➡️ For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

Who is the real enemy we face in life? Today, we look at a powerful moment in Acts 13 where Paul, filled with the Holy Spirit, confronts a sorcerer who tried to stop the spread of the good news. This encounter reminds us that our battle is not with people but with the darker spiritual forces at work. Paul’s courage and conviction encourage us to stand firm, put on God’s armor, and resist the schemes of the enemy. Let's keep our hearts strong, be gracious with others, and walk in the victory Christ has given us. For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

What happens when we live for the approval of others? Today, we dive into Acts 12, where King Herod’s hunger for public approval leads him to do unspeakable things—even executing James and imprisoning Peter. But as Peter sits on death row, the early church prays earnestly, and God intervenes in a miraculous jailbreak, showing that His power goes beyond any earthly authority. This story is a reminder that we’re meant to live for God’s approval, not human applause, finding our worth and security in His love alone. Let’s take encouragement from Peter’s faith and God’s unstoppable power today. For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

Have you ever felt like giving up on someone who let you down? Today, we explore how Barnabas, the “Son of Encouragement,” refused to write off John Mark, even after he abandoned their first missionary journey. While Paul saw him as unreliable, Barnabas chose to believe in Mark’s potential and took him under his wing. This act of perseverance led to Mark’s future as a key figure in spreading the Gospel and as the author of the second book of the New Testament. Barnabas’s commitment to lifting others up, even in failure, challenges us to look beyond mistakes and see the growth that God is working in others. For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

Do you have someone who believes in you when others don’t? Today, we look at Barnabas, a true encourager, who saw the potential in people, even those others doubted. When the early church was hesitant to accept Saul (later known as Paul), Barnabas took a chance on him, vouching for his transformed life and mentoring him in ministry. Through Barnabas’s example, we’re inspired to look for the good in others, encourage them in their journey, and recognize their God-given potential. Let’s choose today to be intentional about uplifting those around us, offering the same encouragement that God so freely gives to us. For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

Have you ever noticed how generosity can change not only others' lives but your own? Today, we dive into the story of Barnabas, known as “the Son of Encouragement,” who demonstrated the power of a generous and other-centered life. In Acts, we see Barnabas journey to Antioch, where he witnesses God’s transformative work and encourages new believers. His faith and generosity show us that a truly fulfilling life focuses on serving and uplifting others. Join us as we explore why the best way to fill ourselves up is to pour ourselves out for others. For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

There are a number of things that can kill our joy including resentment, regret, fear. If we struggle with any of these things, we can take them to the cross and lay them at the feet of Jesus. Because He is Lord and always on the throne, we can trust that He has a plan and is in control. Let go of the things robbing your joy and cling to Jesus, the only source of true and perfect joy. For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

James, Jesus’ brother, encourages us to consider it joy when we face trials and struggles. Even in the midst of our crisis, God is working on our character and making us more like Christ. The joy that comes out of our sufferings is rooted in the fact that the one who loves us and will ultimately overcome the brokenness in the world is with us through every hardship we face. For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

Does God want you to be happy? Think about this: God is the happiest being in the universe. He invented laughter. He calls us to rejoice and delight in Him. God gave us His Word, and there are over 2,000 verses that include words like joy, happiness, rejoice, feasting, and pleasure. Pray and ask God to help you find lasting joy and happiness in Him alone and not seek out lesser things. For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

There is no news in all of history as impactful as the announcement of Jesus’ birth. The message of Jesus is not primarily just good advice, it is good news that changed the world. As opposed to all the other religions around the world, we don’t have to work our way to God. In fact, the good news of Jesus is that God came to us! He came to shed His own blood in order to make a way for us to be with Him forever. For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

When you think about God, do you imagine a list of to-dos, or do you see Him as someone you get to enjoy? God never wants us to try and earn His love. He already loves us more than we can even know, and He wants to give us good gifts. Just as the angels proclaimed to the shepherds in Luke 2, God has good news for us about the most amazing gift that will bring us great joy. For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

Have you ever felt questioned for breaking the status quo? Today, we follow Peter’s return to Jerusalem after sharing the Gospel with Gentiles in Caesarea, only to face skepticism from fellow believers. Peter explains the vision he received from God and the miraculous work of the Holy Spirit among the Gentiles, revealing that God’s love and salvation are for everyone. This encounter is a powerful turning point, marking the inclusivity of the early church and affirming that it is the Holy Spirit—not race or tradition—that unites us as one family in Christ. Let’s live with gratitude today, knowing that the door to God’s kingdom is open to all. For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

Have you ever wondered if God’s love truly embraces all people? Today, we witness a pivotal moment as Peter fully embraces his mission to share Jesus with people outside his own culture and tradition. Entering the home of Cornelius, a Roman centurion, Peter delivers the message of Jesus’s love and resurrection to Gentiles, a step that breaks centuries-old boundaries. The Holy Spirit’s powerful presence among Cornelius’s household is a testament to God’s desire for unity and inclusion. Peter’s journey encourages us to break down any personal or cultural walls that separate us from others, offering God’s love to everyone we meet as we live out the truth of one faith and one family. For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

In today’s episode, we continue with the powerful story of Peter entering Cornelius’s home—a moment that reveals the true inclusivity of God’s kingdom. As Peter shares the good news of Jesus with Cornelius and his household, the Holy Spirit moves in an undeniable way, confirming that God’s love and salvation are for everyone, regardless of background or identity. This encounter brings two conversions: Cornelius and his family discovering Jesus, and Peter’s own heart opening to God’s vision for all people. This story reminds us that through Jesus, God has torn down every dividing wall and invited everyone into a new community of love and grace. For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

What does it mean to truly embrace everyone as our neighbor? Today, we explore a turning point in the early church as Peter receives a vision that challenges centuries of exclusivity and prejudice. God shows Peter that His love and salvation are for everyone, not just a select group. This revelation leads Peter to welcome non-Jewish visitors into his home and ultimately to the house of Cornelius, a Roman, where he must decide whether to cross social and cultural barriers. This story invites us to reflect on our own hearts, letting God break down any walls of prejudice or division within us. For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

Have you ever felt challenged to step out of your comfort zone to love others? Today, we follow Peter as God begins a deep work in his heart, challenging him to break down the walls of prejudice he’s carried his entire life. Through a vision, God shows Peter that His love extends far beyond cultural and religious boundaries. Though hesitant, Peter starts to understand that following Jesus means embracing all people, even those he’d once excluded. This story encourages us to examine our own hearts, praying for God to reveal any hidden biases that keep us from truly loving others. For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

What does it mean to take a public step of faith? Today, we revisit the powerful encounter between Philip and the Ethiopian official as he chooses to be baptized. Philip’s willingness to follow God’s lead opens the door for a life-changing decision, one that mirrors the journey many of us take toward surrender. Baptism, as we see in this story, is an outward sign of an inward faith—a moment to mark new life in Jesus. If you’ve been considering baptism, let this story inspire you to take that next step today. For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

Have you ever experienced a life-changing encounter with a stranger? In today’s episode, we witness Philip’s journey into the wilderness where he encounters an Ethiopian official searching for truth. God orchestrates this meeting, and Philip seizes the opportunity to share the good news of Jesus. Their time together culminates in the official’s decision to be baptized, a beautiful step of faith inspired by a divine encounter. Let’s be open to these intersections today and see where God might lead us. For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

In today’s episode, we witness Philip’s journey into Samaria, a place filled with cultural tensions and deep-seated divisions. Yet, led by the Holy Spirit, Philip steps boldly into this unfamiliar territory, bringing the message of Jesus to people who were often overlooked. His story shows us that God sometimes calls us beyond what’s comfortable to reach those who need His love most. By following Philip’s example, we can stay open to God’s promptings and look for divine appointments with those who need hope. Let’s walk in faith today, ready to share God’s love wherever He may lead. For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

What happens when God moves us out of our comfort zones? Today, we see how the early church was propelled from familiar surroundings in Jerusalem into challenging territories due to persecution. Though scattered, believers found new ways to spread the message of Jesus, showing us that God often uses our discomfort for greater purposes. Just as He called them out, He calls us to impact lives around us beyond our safe places. Let’s keep our hearts open to God’s leading today, ready to follow wherever He calls. For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

Join us as we look at the life of Stephen, a man full of grace and strength, chosen to serve in the early church during a time of rapid growth. Despite facing fierce opposition, Stephen stood firm in his faith, pointing others to Jesus with unwavering courage. In a moving moment, he looked to heaven and saw Jesus standing in honor, affirming his faithfulness. Stephen's story reminds us that God’s peace can anchor us even in the hardest times. Let’s live today with that same courage, letting God’s love shine through us. For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

As the early church continued to grow, the apostles realized they needed help caring for the people. Instead of trying to do everything themselves, they wisely chose other qualified people to serve those in need. God gifts different people for different areas of service because He loves seeing everyone in the church working together. How can you use the gifts God has given you for the benefit of the church? For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

Ananias and Sapphira saw how Barnabas was praised for his generosity, and they wanted the recognition, too. They tried to lie to Peter and the church, but the Spirit cannot be deceived. By faking their generosity, they revealed that they did not have a proper fear of the Lord. Their deception cost them their lives. What about you? Do you live in awe of the God of the universe who loves you, or do you seek the temporary praise of man? For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

The early church in Jerusalem was led by the Holy Spirit and shared what they had with each other. Luke, the author of Acts, singled out one generous individual named Joseph, aka Barnabas, who sold a field and brought it to the church to help those in need. This is not the only place Barnabas shows up in Acts. He also plays a key role in the life of a certain apostle named Saul, aka Paul. For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

In Acts 4, Peter and John were taken to the Sanhedrin after they preached about Jesus to the crowds. The religious leaders were angry and demanded that they stop telling others about Jesus. However, the two disciples responded courageously that they would always choose to listen to God, not man. Because of their courage, we can continue to share the good news with others today! For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

There was nothing special about Jesus’ disciples, but He still chose them to play a critical role in the most amazing story in history. After Jesus returned to heaven, two of the disciples, Peter and John, healed a paralytic and shared the good news of Jesus with the crowd. Even though the Pharisees were upset at the disciples, they couldn’t deny what they had seen. They recognized Peter and John had been with Jesus. Would people recognize that in you? For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

Today, we wrap up our week by looking at the birth of the church in Acts 2. These early believers lived dependently on the Lord. They knew that all they had was Him and their lives were centered around their Savior. What might someone else say is the center of your life? Is it on something temporary that will one day pass away, or is it the Creator of the universe who gave Himself up for you because of His infinite love? For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

The last few verses of Acts 2 give us a glimpse of the early church. These new believers devoted themselves to fellowship with each other. They lived vulnerable lives in rich relationships with one another. Living like Christ in the power of the Spirit enables us to live sacrificially, humbly, and generously. May we live counterculturally like the early church so others are drawn to the God who saves. For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

After Peter’s very first sermon in Acts 2, over 3,000 people believed! At the very beginning of the church, all the believers devoted themselves to the apostles teaching and caring for each other. Every day, God added to their number and these new believers wanted to hear more about Jesus. Do you have a teachable heart like theirs that is hungry for more of Jesus? For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

As Jesus prepared to leave His disciples, He promised they would not be alone. He would send them a gift. In Acts 2, we can read the amazing story of when the gift of the Holy Spirit came to live inside all the believers. Empowered by the Spirit, those men and women shared the Good News of Jesus to everyone around them, and the church was born. For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

Join us this week as we begin looking at the book of Acts. Just like the people of the early church, we need help outside ourselves to live in this world. Jesus saved them and He is willing to save us. Not only that, when we believe in Him, He lives in us. Think about that. The same Holy Spirit that we will see working through the people in Acts is in us, too! For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

Join us today as we wrap up our week, talking about the fear of the Lord. Too often, we spend more time listening to presentations about God than seeking to be in the presence of God. The God from the Old Testament is the same Jesus who came to save sinners, and He is the same One who will return and reign over the world. He longs for us to spend time with Him, and we will one day see Him face to face. Until that day, may we walk in the fear of the Lord. For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

The fear of God destroys the fear of anything else. Psalm 39 and Isaiah 66 remind us that God will be with, bless, and protect those who fear Him. These and other passages of Scripture are how God communicates with us how much He loves us and what it looks like to live in a way that honors Him. How might you better prioritize the text messages God is sending you through His Word this week? For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

This week, we have been looking at Deuteronomy 14:4 and what it means to fear the Lord. One of the competing fears many of us wrestle with is fear of man. Only one can win. On the night of Jesus’ crucifixion, Peter’s fear of man was stronger, and he denied Christ. Yet after Peter saw the risen Jesus, he couldn’t stop sharing the gospel and wanted to please God more than man. Which Peter are you today? For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

Have you ever considered why the Bible asks us to fear the Lord? Scripture helps us understand who God really is. He is a God who saves and defeats His enemies. He is compassionate and yet also a consuming fire. He is a holy, perfect, and just God. He is the one we sin against, and because of His greatness, our well-deserved punishment is severe. Yet our infinite, loving God offers us grace through the blood of Jesus: an infinite gift we could never repay. For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

God is infinitely more glorious and powerful than we can ever understand. The Bible tells us that our appropriate response is the fear of the Lord. Deuteronomy tells us that the fear of God is to obey His commands, listen to His voice, and hold fast to Him with the highest reverence and trembling. What is your heart posture towards God this week? Would you say you fear God the way the Bible describes? For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

Nehemiah's leadership qualities exemplify the art of recognizing potential, envisioning success and collaborating with the team as a servant leader. He values and acknowledges everyone who contributes to the mission while attributing all achievements to God and celebrating His goodness. Exceptional leaders genuinely prioritize bringing people together, paving the path for lost people to establish a meaningful relationship with God. Remember, every person holds significant value in the eyes of God. For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

Nehemiah's excellent leadership character traits showed how big and great God is. Nehemiah's unified team was able to do the impossible and rebuild the wall in supernatural record-breaking days. Completing God's vision of building the kingdom of heaven requires a unified team that appreciates everyone's unique skill sets and humble hearts that deflect all credit to God's greatness. Only God can genuinely pull off something that is true, great, and that will last. For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

When leaders have a strong vision, they can ask for help for a cause and have people motivated to join the process. Nehemiah serves as an exemplary model by motivating and commending those who assisted him in reconstructing the protective wall around God's nation. People thrive on recognition for their positive contributions, appreciating acknowledgment rather than constant correction. Consider expressing gratitude today towards those deserving of appreciation for their dedication. For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

A great leader is contagiously forward-thinking with a fresh vision despite the history of hard times. Nehemiah had a humble boldness, and because of that, he could ask others to partner with him. He did so because courage is not the absence of fear but moving ahead despite fear. A great leader is contagiously forward-thinking with a fresh vision despite the history of hard times. Nehemiah had a humble boldness, and because of that, he could ask others to partner with him. He did so because courage is not the absence of fear but moving ahead despite fear. "The king said to me, 'What is it you want?' Then I prayed to the God of heaven, and I answered the king, 'If it pleases the king and if your servant has found favor in his sight, let him send me to the city in Judah where my ancestors are buried so that I can rebuild it.'" (Nehemiah 2:4-5 NIV) For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

Who do you look up to as a leader? Who looks up to you? Nehemiah exemplifies vital leadership qualities involving confronting challenges with sincerity and humility. Embodying Nehemiah's characteristics is advised regardless of the reality or mess. Acknowledge the hard truths, confront chaos directly, seek guidance in your prayer life, and actively involve God in rebuilding. Today: What reality do you need to face and invite God into? For more biblical teaching and worship, join us for our Church Online live weekend services on Saturdays and Sundays. For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

You may not be able to write a clear definition of authenticity, but you know it when you see it. Daniel’s character and active faith impacted not just those around him but multiple generations of royals and the lost nation of Babylon. “...For he is the living God, and he endures forever; his kingdom will not be destroyed, his dominion will never end. He rescues and he saves; he performs signs and wonders in the heavens and on the earth. He has rescued Daniel from the power of the lions.’ So Daniel prospered during the reign of Darius and the reign of Cyrus the Persian” (Daniel 6:26-28 NIV). What would someone say about your character? Are you the real deal? For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

Daniel was cast into the lion’s den because he committed to worshipping God despite an unjust decree. His integrity and steadfast prayer routine were crucial in keeping him safe. Despite the challenges, Daniel aimed to maintain a humble connection with God daily. Do people around you know who you serve continually? “So the king gave the order, and they brought Daniel and threw him into the lions’ den. The king said to Daniel, “May your God, whom you serve continually, rescue you!” (Daniel 6:16) For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

How do you react when you end up in a place you never thought you would be or should ever be in? Are you passive or prepared to stand tall? “Daniel determined that he would not defile himself with the king’s food or with the wine he drank. So he asked permission from the chief official not to defile himself.” (Daniel 1:8 HCSB). Humbly and boldly live for God, just like Daniel. Daniel shifted the narrative and took control of his life while in Babylonian captivity. Resolved in his heart, he was going to walk in The Truth. Therefore, today, hold deeply held convictions before you are placed in tempting, high-pressure environments. Don't let the line of integrity be crossed in your heart. For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive