Live Free with Josh Howerton

Jesus came to show us what God is really like through His words and how He cared for others. We can learn even more about Him by looking at the lives of the real people who encountered Him face to face. Join us this week as Pastor Mike looks at the life of the one who Jesus said was the greatest man to ever live. For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

We are more than conquerors! If that is true, why do we quit? We often forget what is true: nothing can come against us when we rest in the power of God. Are you ready? Do you choose to be resilient? Pastor Bianca Olthoff challenges us to embrace trials and hardships in the power available to you in Christ. For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

Do you have a statement of Truth to stand on? Think through this exercise with us to inspire faith, resilience, and perseverance in listeners. This episode is not about promoting positive thinking but rather fostering biblical optimism deeply rooted in God's Word. Fight back the impulse to quit with the Truth of your call. For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

How do we overcome adversity? By believing that pain has a purpose and adversity is an opportunity. Remind yourself of what is true! Look to the Apostle Paul, and his refusal to lose hope despite experiencing storms, shipwrecks, and snake bites. God is for our good even in the hard. For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

As we continue our series on grit, Pastor Bianca Olthoff encourages us to change our perspective on challenges. Are they just obstacles or opportunities for growth and obedience? Develop resilience and stay committed to divine purpose, even in the face of resistance. In today's episode, learn how to rise to the challenge, confront challenges, and keep moving forward in their divine purpose. For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

Do you want a do-over? Are you having a hard time pushing through? What creates grit and perseverance? In today’s episode, Pastor Bianca Olthoff unpacks how the Apostle Paul pushed through as we start a new week-long series on grit. For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

Do you feel like there is so much bad news? It can be overwhelming if we look at all the terrible things happening around us. Yet, God has given us promises to hold onto even when we see all the bad. Tune in as Pastor Mike reminds us that these promises can give us what we need to step out in faith. Just a little courage can make all the difference. For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

Do you have “hurry sickness”? Are you tempted to value time over people? When we do that, we actually miss out on what’s really important in life. Pastor Mike reminds us the value of pulling over, popping the hood, and changing lanes so you can find rest in God. For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

In case you need to hear this today, nothing you will ever say or confess to God can surprise Him. You can stop pretending you’re perfect, stop faking your feelings, and be honest with Him. God knows us better than we know ourselves and still loves us more than we could ever understand. For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

Are you ever worried that you don’t have the “right” thing to say to God when you pray? God is not looking for well-rehearsed speeches but a heart-to-heart connection with His children. Prayer is an ongoing conversation with God, and we can confidently approach Him anytime about anything. For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

Our enemy and the culture we live in try to distort our vision. Prayer helps correct it. Learn from God’s interaction with Job and how talking with God gives us proper focus and a fresh perspective. It reminds us that He is God and we are not. For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

What’s the point of prayer if God already knows everything? Jesus, Himself, regularly took time to talk to His Father, so let’s follow His example. God is never too busy to listen to us. Let’s not be too busy to talk to Him. In today’s episode, Pastor Mike reminds us to take time to connect with the one true God. For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

Today Pastor Mike looks at the power given to us in when we abide with Christ. The same power that raised Christ from the dead and inspired the Bible is the same power that lives within you. What can you NOT do when you live a life abiding with God? For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

Want to live a life that is flourishing? Your life can be transformed by recognizing the connection we have with God. His presence within us changes everything when we simply stay focused on that truth. It all starts with simple reminders and establishing the habit of living in the reality of His presence. For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

Today’s episode will challenge you to grow in your awareness of God’s presence. The truth is, not only do we remain in God, but He remains in us! Reflect on Psalm 139 and refresh yourself in the truth that we are always with God, around Him and known by Him. Life changes when we live in the truth of our constant union with God. For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

Ever feel like you are missing out? Not growing the way you want to, not engaged in spiritual things like you know you should be? Check your root. Is the Bible a chore or a life-giving source? Let today's episode remind you that God is the source of all life, and His word has the power to change us. For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

What does it truly mean to remain in Jesus? In today’s episode, Pastor Mike focuses on three life-changing words: “Abide in Me.” If we are the branches and Jesus is the vine, we can do nothing without remaining firmly attached to Him. No life, nutrients, or growth can happen apart from staying with the Sustainer of life. Spend a few moments of your day reflecting on this Biblical truth. For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

Do you believe that God wants to use you? Many of us passively think He could, but few recognize He WANTS to use you! Look at Moses and all his flaws. The same God who used a murderer to save His people wants to use you too. For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

Sometimes we use superlatives and don't stop to recognize the profound significance. Slow down and recognize that you can dive into the limitless wisdom of God. When we reflect on our limited human comprehension of God, we realize the transformative, healing, and life-changing power available to us. What freedom there is in recognizing our smallness and resting in His greatness! For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

What happens when the great I AM focuses His love on you? In this episode, Pastor Mike reminds us of God's love and focuses on God's rescue mission for His people in Egypt. Just as He pursued His people then, He relentlessly pursues us despite our sins. God has come down to us; now we should come near to Him. For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

Jump back in with us as Pastor Mike specifically focuses on Moses' experience with the burning bush, a symbol of God's inexhaustible and self-existent nature. Holy ground is not the location, but God's presence that makes it sacred. You, like Moses, get to enter into that holy ground every time you seek God in prayer. For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

What would it look like for you to go deeper in your prayer life? Join us as we kick off 21 days of prayer as a church. Today, Pastor Mike reflects on Moses' story and uncovering the mess he found himself in. God always does amazing work in our messes, so we shouldn’t wait for the perfect time to start praying. Like Moses, it all starts with saying, “Here I am” to God. For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

True greatness comes from humility. In contrast to what the world says, Jesus taught that greatness is found in serving others, not being served. Let’s re-think our ideas of greatness and value, and listen to the Holy Spirit's guidance towards humility. For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

The final rung in the Beatitudes ladder is persecution. If that doesn’t sound appealing, you are not alone. In this episode, Pastor Mike walks us through why Jesus would have this as the final step. As you go about your day today, may God give you grace to see persecution as a momentary affliction compared to the surpassing joy of glorifying Him. For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

As we continue climbing up the ladder of the Beatitudes, Pastor Mike focuses on peacemaking. Peacemaking requires significant maturity and humility. Today’s episode is full of truth and encouragement to help you live a lifestyle of peace. For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

God wants our authenticity, not our image management. Pastor Mike unpacks this idea and how being transparent in our brokenness is another key to a joyful life. Let's remind ourselves of the happiness found in authenticity as we seek to be pure in heart. For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

As we continue our journey through the Beatitudes, Pastor Mike reflects on Jesus' teachings of mercy. Those who recognize their need for mercy become givers of it. Let today’s episode be a reminder to live a life full of grace, forgiveness, and love, as we realize how much we've been forgiven and aim to let go of judgment and negativity. For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

Pastor Mike continues exploring the Beatitudes from Jesus' Sermon on the Mount. The first four Beatitudes are described as internal preparation for a joy-filled life, while the next four are how that joy manifests externally or the presentation of a joy-filled life. Looking for more joy? Tune in! For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

What if happiness wasn’t an external goal to achieve but was actually an internal state available to us now that results from a humble dependence on God’s grace? Tune in as Pastor Mike unpacks this idea and how we can find deep satisfaction and fulfillment when we hunger and thirst for God. For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

Pastor Mike explores the richness of meekness, shattering the myth of it being synonymous with weakness. Discover the transformative power of surrendering control and how this step towards humility can lead to a life filled with God’s unfailing love. For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

“Blessed are those who mourn.” Today, Pastor Mike unpacks the paradox of grief and its strange companion, happiness. As we reflect on the importance of brokenness, humility, and the desire to change, remember: blessed are those who acknowledge and mourn their spiritual poverty, for they will find comfort. For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

Have you ever felt that fulfilling joy and happiness are just beyond your grasp? Tune in as Pastor Mike unpacks the paradox of being “poor in spirit” and how it can lead to profound happiness. Pastor Mike explores how acknowledging our spiritual need and humility paves the way to joy. Join us as we translate the profound wisdom of the Sermon on the Mount into modern, practical lessons for life. For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

What if happiness isn't about what's happening around us, but rather what's happening in us? Pastor Mike dives into Jesus' sermon on the Mount and what it truly means to be happy according to His perspective. So, are you ready to redefine joy and find your way to true fulfillment? Let's do this together. For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

As Pastor Mike wraps up our series on discovering God’s Waze, he emphasizes the importance of keeping God's perspective, knowledge, and affection at the forefront of our lives. By pursuing His character and desires, we allow God to guide our choices, ensuring that we become the right person in the right place. For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

In today's episode, Pastor Mike dives into the importance of having close spiritual companions in our journey and how their counsel can help us navigate life's big decisions. He also discusses the importance of seeking counsel from a few trusted friends who know and love Jesus, and who know and love you. Tune in and discover how you can discern God's will for your life through the guidance of your close spiritual companions. For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

Navigating life can be a challenging journey, and sometimes we need a little help finding our way. That's where the power of God's presence comes in. By being guided through His word and the presence of His Spirit, we can make choices that align with our passions and purpose. For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

Are you a pouter or a shouter? This episode is all about understanding our communication styles and learning how to use them to honor God and build stronger relationships. The gift of communication that God has bestowed upon us can be used to encourage, provide direction, express anger, and much more. For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

Everyone worries. In this podcast episode, Pastor Steve discusses the topic of worry and provides advice on overcoming it. He emphasizes the importance of obeying God and staying within His will to avoid unnecessary worries. And, by praising God, our worries diminish in comparison to His greatness. For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

Will this help or hurt me, will this help or hurt someone else, and will this help or hurt the cause of Christ? In this episode, Pastor Steve Stroope shares the two types of God's will: the moral will and the non-moral will. The moral will consists of things that are always right or wrong. Pastor Steve introduces three questions to discern God's moral will that will help you discern the path God wants you to choose. For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

In today’s episode, Pastor Steve Stroope discusses the concept of temptation and why we should find joy in it. He explains that temptation is an opportunity for growth and strengthening our faith. The story of Paul and Silas in Philippi, who trusted God and sang praises despite being imprisoned, emphasizes that enduring temptation makes us spiritually stronger. Their faith, like our own, grows stronger with each trial faced. For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

Why does God prune us? Today, we're taking a stroll through the garden of life, exploring the concept of pruning, both in horticulture and our spiritual journey. Join us as we explore how gardening principles can guide us toward spiritual growth and a fruitful life. For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

Are you ready for some guidance on how to navigate the decisions in your life while walking with God? Together, let's discover one of the ways God offers direction for our journey: through the filter of His Word. The Bible is a treasure trove of hope, truth, wisdom, comfort, and challenge. As we read, study, and apply its teachings, we gain discernment for our path. When you're passionate about something and unsure whether it aligns with God's plan, run it through the filter of Scripture. You'll find that His ways are not only right but always best. For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

Pursuing God can impact the way we think about His will and purpose for our lives. Pastor Mike discusses the principle of delighting in the Lord and making Him your primary passion, so you can trust that He's giving you the green light to pursue the dreams and desires He has placed in your heart. Let God’s guidance lead you in the pursuit of your dreams and desires. For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

God's will for our lives doesn't have to be as complicated as we often make it out to be. Pastor Mike unpacks how waiting actively and living dependently on God can lead us to make wise decisions and live a deeply fulfilling life. We can trust our Heavenly Father! For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

Learn how trusting in the Lord and doing good helps us cultivate faithfulness and delight in God while realizing that God's will is more about who we become than what we do or where we go. Tune in as Pastor Mike shares practical examples of how to incorporate daily surrender into various situations, from work meetings to personal relationships, and experience the peace and fulfillment that comes from doing life with God moment by moment. For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

Today’s episode is all about embracing God's guidance as we navigate our lives and the sheer delight of having Him as our ultimate road trip companion. Pastor Mike continues on in Psalm 37 and encourages listeners to surrender each day to God’s will and embrace the adventure! For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

Ready to uncover the true secret to aligning your desires with God's will? Join us as Pastor Mike continues in Psalm 37, discussing the importance of trusting in the Lord and delighting in Him. Learn how prioritizing our relationship with God can lead to the fulfillment of our deepest desires. Discover the joy and meaning that comes from truly delighting in the Lord and experiencing a more satisfying life. For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

God's delays are not denials but rather opportunities for Him to shape our character and prepare us for something better. Tune in as Pastor Mike unpacks the importance of becoming the right person by doing the right thing where you currently are. Embrace the true meaning of trusting in the Lord and cultivating faithfulness, even in the midst of uncertainty. For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

Discover the power of waiting actively and living dependently on God as we navigate the uncertainties of life in today’s episode. Join Pastor Mike as he explores the significance of doing the right thing while waiting for answers to our prayers and decisions. Whether it's in our careers, relationships, or personal growth, learn how to cultivate faithfulness and trust in God's plan even when the future seems uncertain. For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

Get ready to redefine the concept of waiting and discover the blessings that come along with it! In today's episode, Pastor Mike explores how to wait actively and live dependently on God. Trust us, waiting will never be the same again! For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive