Live Free with Josh Howerton

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

How do you deal with the temptation of pride or losing your godly identity in a faithless culture? You walk like Daniel… striving to serve with joy and honor while staying close to God. When we walk with our heavenly Father daily, we are able to process God’s promises, His character, and the identity He has created us for. What cultural identity theft do you need God to speak truth in today? For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

Defining integrity can be challenging; it's often easier to recognize than articulate. This week, we focus on studying Daniel, emphasizing authenticity and Godly character when placed in unholy cultures. “Do not be conformed to this age, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may discern what is the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God.” (Roman 12:2 HCSB) For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

What keeps you from living with deep conviction and God's confidence? The metaphor of fire burning away obstacles signifies spiritual purification and freedom. Walking through challenges with Jesus can lead to transformation without any lingering smells of smoke. Trusting in God's supernatural power while in the fire can bring healing and the breaking of bonds that tie you to a fresh start in life. What kind of ropes have you bound up and need Jesus to burn them up? For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

The fires of life serve as tests to refine and purify your faith, ultimately leading you closer to God's unfailing love. Even in challenging times, trust in God's power and ability to overcome all obstacles. Embrace the fires to strengthen your character and faith, knowing that you are never alone with Jesus by your side. For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

Sometimes, we are challenged to distinguish ourselves by leading a life of integrity, honor, and devotion to God. It is possible to hold steadfast to our beliefs without adopting a rebellious attitude or fearing opposition. God can accomplish anything required with the ability and power to execute His great plans. He stands as our Hope and the anchor for our souls amidst life's challenges. Embrace courage and humility in your journey alongside God. 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

Solid friendships and a healthy community are highlighted throughout the Bible, emphasizing that we are better together, as seen with the friendship of Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. In times of solitude or vulnerability when away from supportive friends, relying on God for strength becomes essential. Proverbs 18:10 underscores the unshakable strength of God, emphasizing the importance of having strong friends in our lives while ultimately depending on God for support. For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

In the Book of Daniel, King Nebuchadnezzar takes young Israelite men captive to serve in Babylon. Despite being captives, they remain devoted to God and demonstrate integrity, respect, and kindness. In chapter 3, King Nebuchadnezzar builds a 90-foot gold statue for worship, leading Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego to refuse to bow down out of loyalty to God despite the risk involved. These three men exemplify courage, faith, and devotion to the one true God while serving under challenging circumstances. For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

How are the odds stacked against you right now? In the conclusion of the story of Gideon, we see God's remarkable power demonstrated by 300 men defeating a solid military force using unconventional methods. Through worship and trust in God, victory was achieved with rams' horns and clay pots, causing chaos among the enemy. The book of Judges highlights how divine intervention can lead to triumph even in challenging circumstances. No matter what your reality is today, God is with you! Cry out to God, and step out in faith by tearing down false gods in your life. For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

God specializes in overcoming overwhelming odds. God transformed Gideon from a shy farmer into a mighty warrior, preparing him to lead a ragtag team of 300 Israelites in defending and liberating God’s people from the Midianites, who were the dominant military force in the region then. Today, trust and embrace His power for strength and endurance even when journeying through unfamiliar seasons. For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

The nation of Israel endured seven years of oppression and cried out to God for deliverance. In response, God raised up Gideon to lead them. God instructed Gideon to construct an altar and demolish the false gods worshipped by the rebellious Israelites, emphasizing the need to remove false gods and idols. Similarly, we are urged to eliminate anything in our lives that does not reflect God's image. Reflect on the idols or false gods that may be exerting control over your life today, and consider what aspects you need to surrender to God. For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

We commonly cling to lies and negative labels spoken over our lives, accepting them as truths. However, when God reveals our true identities, we often doubt and find excuses to reject the positive affirmations He lovingly gives to us. God sees greatness within you and envisions using you as an instrument for driving change and making a positive impact on those around you. So today, ask yourself, how is God calling me to step up today? For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

We all resonate with underdog stories, feeling overwhelmed by odds at times. God's power shines in facing great challenges and overcoming impossible situations, as seen through examples like Gideon. Regardless of circumstances, God showers us with unfailing love and respects our free will even amidst poor decisions. It's reassuring to know that God deeply cares for us daily, extending grace beyond any rebelliousness we may show. For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

What does the Bible say is actually true of God and true of me? In Christ… You are a child of God. (1 John 3:2) You are a friend of Jesus. (John 15:14) You are chosen by God. (Deuteronomy 7:6) You are God’s own possession. (1 Peter 2:9) You have died with Christ and raised with Him. (Romans 6:8-11) You are saved and set apart for God’s purposes. (Deuteronomy 14:2) You are free forever from condemnation You’ve received the Spirit of God into your life. You have been crucified with Christ - it’s no longer you who lives, but Christ in you This is what is true of you. For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

Today, Pastor Carlos explores the concept of deepening our trust in God's provision. Reflect on what aspects of your life you need to entrust to God during this season: Wisdom– Read James 1:5 Comfort– Read 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 Encouragement– Read Jeremiah 29:11 Freedom from guilt and shame– Read Romans 8:1 For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

Faith is not the absence of fear, it’s the presence of trust in the midst of fear. Faith in God doesn’t eliminate fear, it overrides fear; this can be seen when God is speaking to Joshua as he is trying to lead the Israelite people. “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9 (NIV) For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

Holiness is what God wants for us: to be set apart and fully His. “And [ the angels ] were calling to one another: ‘Holy, holy, holy is the Lord Almighty; the whole earth is full of his glory.’”- Isaiah 6:3 (NIV) Holy is not used to describe God; sometimes, it is who He is all the time. Today, Pastor Carlos will discuss what it means to go deeper in holiness. For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

God wants to be known and be known by you. He desires to have a personal relationship and quality time together. Jesus first called his disciples to be in His presence rather than focusing on outward actions or changing the world. To remain in Jesus is to align your life so that everything moves toward more intimacy with God. For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

In moments of darkness when you feel lost, desperate, and overwhelmed, Jesus stands by your side, offering light, hope, and healing. As you embrace the light and experience transformation in your life, you'll be empowered to extend that same healing and hope to others with Jesus by your side. “As Jesus was getting into the boat, the man who had been demon-possessed begged to go with him. Jesus did not let him, but said, ‘Go home to your own people and tell them how much the Lord has done for you, and how he has had mercy on you.’ So the man went away and began to tell in the Decapolis how much Jesus had done for him. And all the people were amazed.” (Mark 5:18-20 NIV) For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

Remember, there's nothing in your life that God can't uncover. Jesus will always be there to cover you in His righteousness. This truth is beautifully illustrated in the story found in Mark 5, where Jesus Restores a Demon-Possessed Man. 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 ‌

In any confrontation between darkness and light, the light always emerges triumphant. It compels darkness to retreat in its presence. Jesus embodies this victorious light! Human nature tends to be drawn to light once its warmth is experienced. Remember, you don't have to wait until you're at a low point to turn towards Jesus; embrace His guiding light today. 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

Your battles are not against flesh and blood. If you find yourself in need of a chain-breaker, feeling isolated as if the world is against you, and pain seems to be your only companion, remember there's a true adversary: Jesus. He stands ready to fight on your behalf and liberate you from whatever holds you captive. For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive