Faithful on the Clock

Faithful on the Clock is a podcast with the mission of getting your work and faith aligned. We want you to understand Who you're serving and why so you can get more joy and legacy from every minute spent on the clock. Thanks for joining us and taking this step toward a more fulfilling job and relationship with God!Want to join us on social media?We'd love to have you stay up-to-date with the show on all our platforms!ThreadsBlueskyFacebookPinterestInstagramLinkedInYouTubeIn this episode...Keeping Christian Love Simple With Ahmard Vitalhttps://faithfulontheclock.com/keeping-christian-love-simple-with-ahmard-vitalWork might be complex, but loving people while you do your job shouldn’t be. In Episode 153 of Faithful on the Clock, guest Ahmard Vital helps us get back to loving with simplicity.Timestamps:[00:04] - Intro[00:39] - Welcome/Ahmard’s background[03:14] - What is “overcomplicated” and how to keep it simple[06:13] - Why we need to slow down to simplify in our faith[11:40] - Advice for people struggle to slow down because they think “I have to do it” about tasks or requests[16:18] - Learning to respond to God instead of people; how loving others connects to giving time to God[22:22] - What holds people back from taking small opportunities to love others[27:22] - Overcoming the awkwardness of initial interactions and the neurology of learning people are safe[33:11] - Responding even when it is difficult out of empathy[45:56] - Unlearning previous ways of thinking to be able to love better; being willing to take unscheduled opportunities and how God can use them for life-or-death care[54:51] - Making a conscious choice to pay attention and be aware of people and their needs[58:31] - God as a God of abundance; why it’s important to celebrate others and the good going on in their lives[01:08:17] - How to connect with and find out more about Ahmard[01:10:03] - Prayer[01:11:07] - Outro/What’s coming up nextKey takeaways:Small, everyday interactions can have life-changing impact.You don’t need a platform to make a difference — you need presence.Faith (or values) isn’t scheduled; it shows up in unscripted moments.Consistency in small actions builds real trust over time.People are often struggling more than they appear.Love is expressed through attention, not complexity.Scarcity thinking around celebration (someone else wins = you lose) is false.Celebration and connection — fruits of love — are antidotes to isolation and fear.Home - Ahmard VitalCTAs:Think about the last small interaction you had today. Did you treat it like it mattered?This week, choose one small moment each day to intentionally show up for someone.What’s coming up next:Juggling work and parenting is tough stuff. In Episode 154, guest Olaolu Ogunyemi joins Faithful on the Clock to offer encouragement and discuss what’s necessary to parent the next generation of leaders.Support the show!Visit the Faithful on the Clock Patreon page to choose a tier plan and become a supporting member. You'll gain access to goodies like early episode access, newsletters, and more based on the plan that's right for you.patreon.com/faithfulontheclockGive a one-off tip or donation on our Captivate support page. You can become a member there with the same great tier options you'll find at Patreon, too.Support Faithful on the ClockVisit our sister site! Faithfulonthclock.com features additional free, free-with-registration, and paid access content to grow your faith, includingsocial media archives,previously published faith-based articles,original blogs,inspirational videos,episode teasers and replaysexclusive faith-based essays and articles,exclusive videosexclusive audioexclusive in-depth devotionals.Share the show! Like these episodes? Share them on social media, in texts or emails, or in person.

Faithful on the Clock is a podcast with the mission of getting your work and faith aligned. We want you to understand Who you're serving and why so you can get more joy and legacy from every minute spent on the clock. Thanks for joining us and taking this step toward a more fulfilling job and relationship with God!Want to join us on social media?We'd love to have you stay up-to-date with the show on all our platforms!ThreadsBlueskyFacebookPinterestInstagramLinkedInYouTubeIn this episode...How to Know You're Ready for Successhttps://faithfulontheclock.com/how-to-know-youre-ready-for-successYou want success like any professional. But do you have the right attitude and spiritual posture to handle it? Episode 152 of Faithful on the Clock explores.Timestamps:[00:04] - Intro[00:42] - Episode focusing — approaching success spiritually, not logistically[01:30] - You’re Ready Point #1 — You’re ready for success when you don’t let success be the thing that defines you.[02:51] - You’re Ready Point #2 — You’re ready for success when you’re willing to sacrifice success once you have it.[04:13] - You’re Ready Point #3 — You’re ready for success when you know what the success serves.[06:15] - You’re Ready Point #4 — You’re ready for success when you have the right safeguards.[07:53] - Summary and invitation to add to the list via LinkedIn[08:13] - Prayer[08:48] - Outro/What’s coming up nextKey takeaways:1. Success readiness is spiritual, not just logistical. Most people prepare for success through strategy—degrees, systems, networks. But true readiness is about your heart posture and alignment with God before success ever arrives.2. Identity must exist apart from achievement. If success defines you, it will distort both your relationships and your calling. You’re only ready when you know who you are without what you’ve done—and can carry that identity through change.3. You must be willing to release success. Using the Abraham and Isaac parallel: if you’re not willing to surrender what you’ve built, then success has already become an idol. Readiness means holding success with open hands.4. Success must serve a larger mission. If you don’t know what success is for, it becomes directionless and ultimately meaningless. Success is not the goal—it’s a tool that should clearly connect to your deeper “why.”5. Safeguards determine sustainability. You need:People who ground you, offer wisdom, and keep you alignedHabits that protect your relationship with God and your well-beingWithout these, success becomes destabilizing instead of fruitful.CTAs:1. Do a readiness check. Ask yourself honestly: If success came tomorrow, would it strengthen or destabilize me? Identify one area (identity, surrender, mission, or safeguards) that needs attention.2. Define what your success serves. Write one sentence: “If I succeed, it will allow me to ______.” If you can’t answer that clearly, pause before pushing forward.3. Put one safeguard in place this week. Reach out to a wise person or recommit to a grounding habit (prayer, rest, reflection). Don’t wait until success tests you—build the structure now.What’s coming up next:Are we making Christian love too complex? Guest Ahmard Vital joins Faithful on the Clock to share why we need to get back to simplicity and what that looks like in practice at work.Support the show!Visit the Faithful on the Clock Patreon page to choose a tier plan and become a supporting member. You'll gain access to goodies like early episode access, newsletters, and more based on the plan that's right for you.patreon.com/faithfulontheclockGive a one-off tip or donation on our Captivate support page. You can become a member there with the same great tier options you'll find at Patreon, too.Support Faithful on the ClockVisit our sister site! Faithfulonthclock.com features additional free, free-with-registration, and paid access content to grow your faith, includingsocial media archives,previously published faith-based articles,original blogs,inspirational videos,episode teasers and replaysexclusive faith-based essays and articles,exclusive videosexclusive audioexclusive in-depth devotionals.Share the show! Like these episodes? Share them on social media, in texts or emails, or in person.

Faithful on the Clock is a podcast with the mission of getting your work and faith aligned. We want you to understand Who you're serving and why so you can get more joy and legacy from every minute spent on the clock. Thanks for joining us and taking this step toward a more fulfilling job and relationship with God!Want to join us on social media?We'd love to have you stay up-to-date with the show on all our platforms!ThreadsBlueskyFacebookPinterestInstagramLinkedInYouTubeIn this episode...Communication That Connects and Serves With Danny Brassellhttps://faithfulontheclock.com/communication-that-connects-and-serves-with-danny-brassellYour story has value to others — and to God. In Episode 151, speaking coach and educator Danny Brassell offers tips on how to effectively share it.Timestamps:[00:04] - Intro[00:40] - Danny’s background[04:02] - The biggest mistakes Danny sees in speaking[06:57] - Danny’s introduction and RAP strategies for relating to and impressing audiences[10:12] - Danny’s experience of going off script, feeling God’s pleasure, and having God give him what to say[14:49] - How to infuse humor into your speeches and presentations[22:24] - What Danny has taken away from Jesus’ storytelling[27:39] - Connecting with audiences through single moments or stories to get them to want more[29:49] - How to read Scripture without getting overwhelmed, based on Danny’s educational experience[40:39] - Danny’s book projects[43:00] - Thoughts on Job, being refined by God, and how to approach God in prayer[47:21] - Prayer/Danny’s offer[49:46] - Outro/What’s coming up nextKey takeaways:People struggle most with two things in speaking: bragging too much and giving too many calls to action.Share failures, not just successes. That’s what makes you relatable and trustworthy.Give one clear call to action. Too many options confuse people and lower follow-through.Use RAP (relatable, authority, and purpose) to connect quickly.Relatability comes from everyday experiences. Not big, impressive achievements.You don’t have to be perfect — just practice. Great speaking comes from repetition.Humor helps, especially when it’s self-aware. You don’t need to be a comedian—just be real.Use stories, not just information. Stories are what people remember.Aim to leave people feeling better. Joy and hope are powerful goals when you speak.Jesus modeled powerful communication through stories and humility.Sometimes the best words come through you, not from you. Be open to being used by God.You only need one moment or one story to connect deeply with someone.There’s no single “right” way to read the Bible. Just start and stay engaged.The Bible meets you where you are. It speaks to real-life struggles and questions.Faith grows through relationship, not perfection. Be honest, curious, and consistent.God can redeem anything. Your story — no matter what it includes — still has value.You already have something worth sharing. Your story can make an impact.Unlock the Blueprint to Transform Your Story into a Powerful Business Growth ToolDr. Danny Brassell – Literacy, Leadership & Keynotes for SchoolsCTAs:Take one piece of your story this week — and share it with someone. Not the polished version. The real one. See what happens.Say yes to one opportunity to speak, write, or encourage someone.What’s coming up next:Everyone wants success. Episode 152 of Faithful on the Clock helps you determine whether you’re truly ready for it.Support the show!Visit the Faithful on the Clock Patreon page to choose a tier plan and become a supporting member. You'll gain access to goodies like early episode access, newsletters, and more based on the plan that's right for you.patreon.com/faithfulontheclockGive a one-off tip or donation on our Captivate support page. You can become a member there with the same great tier options you'll find at Patreon, too.Support Faithful on the ClockVisit our sister site! Faithfulonthclock.com features additional free, free-with-registration, and paid access content to grow your faith, includingsocial media archives,previously published faith-based articles,original blogs,inspirational videos,episode teasers and replaysexclusive faith-based essays and articles,exclusive videosexclusive audioexclusive in-depth devotionals.Share the show! Like these episodes? Share them on social media, in texts or emails, or in person.

Faithful on the Clock is a podcast with the mission of getting your work and faith aligned. We want you to understand Who you're serving and why so you can get more joy and legacy from every minute spent on the clock. Thanks for joining us and taking this step toward a more fulfilling job and relationship with God!Want to join us on social media?We'd love to have you stay up-to-date with the show on all our platforms!ThreadsBlueskyFacebookPinterestInstagramLinkedInYouTubeIn this episode...Building From the Ashes of Negative Life Experiences With Laurette Willishttps://faithfulontheclock.com/building-from-the-ashes-of-negative-life-experiences-with-laurette-willisPain and mistakes? Dr. Laurette Willis joins us in Episode 150 of Faithful on the Clock to show how they can become a foundation for serving God.Timestamps:[00:04] - Intro[00:45] - Laurette’s career background[04:50] - Laurette’s life background[10:53] - How Laurette’s struggles showed up at work[17:07] - What to look for in others who might be struggling[27:25] - The difficulty of asking for help as a high performer[31:05] - The difficulty of asking for help even when not a high performer; addressing self talk[38:51] - Addressing the negative thoughts we might have about God[49:51] - Laurette’s ventures and offerings[53:11] - Whether Laurette would have changed anything in her past[60:59] - Prayer[64:11] - Outro/What’s coming up nextKey takeaways:Pain can become purpose when surrendered to God. God often uses our deepest wounds as the starting point for ministry and service. Willis’ ministries were built from her own experiences with trauma, addiction, and emotional eating. Instead of hiding the past, she turned it into a platform to help others heal.Coping mechanisms often mask deeper emotional wounds. People may appear successful or high-performing at work while quietly struggling with destructive coping habits. The real issue usually isn’t the behavior—it’s the unresolved emotional pain underneath.High performers often struggle to admit they need help. For people whose identity is tied to achievement, admitting weakness or asking for help can feel terrifying. This fear can create a dangerous cycle of striving harder, hiding struggles, increasing stress, and deepening dependence on coping mechanisms. Healing often begins with surrender—acknowledging that you cannot fix everything through performance alone.Struggling coworkers are often identified by behavior, not performance. Someone may still be hitting quotas and performing well professionally while quietly suffering. Warning signs are often relational rather than productivity-based: emotional distance, withdrawing, wearing a mask, and pushing people away. Compassionate connection — simply letting someone know they are seen and cared for—can make a profound difference.The battle often begins with our self-talk. Willis explains that negative internal dialogue shapes behavior and outcomes. Self-talk → beliefs → attitude → feelings → actions → results. If someone wants different results, the change must begin at the level of thought patterns.Renewing the mind changes both spiritual and neurological pathways. Through neuroscience and Scripture, Willis describes how people can retrain their thinking. By replacing destructive thoughts with truth, individuals can literally reshape neural pathways and create healthier emotional responses. “Take every thought captive.” (2 Corinthians 10:4–5)Healing requires changing how we see both ourselves and God. Many people carry distorted beliefs: “God loves others but not me.”; “I’ve made too many mistakes.”; “I’m not worthy of grace.” True transformation requires correcting both negative beliefs about ourselves and false assumptions about God’s character.Slowing down is essential to spiritual clarity. Constant busyness can block emotional and spiritual awareness. Simple moments of stillness—pausing, noticing small joys, or sitting quietly with God—create space for reflection, prayer, and healing.Freedom often begins when someone feels safe enough to be honest. People struggling with addiction or shame may desperately want help but feel unable to admit it. What helps most often is non-judgmental listening, simple invitations to connect, and small acts of compassion. Even one supportive person can help break the cycle.Your past does not disqualify you — it can become the foundation for good. You don’t have to erase your past mistakes. You can build something meaningful from them. What once looked like failure can become the very thing God uses to help others.Meditation KitChristian Weight Loss KitPersonal Transformation CoachingCTAs:If there’s something in your past you wish you could erase, consider this: What if the very thing you’re most ashamed of could someday become the thing that helps someone else heal?Most people who are struggling don’t show it in obvious ways. They keep performing or producing. Look past the performance for subtle signs of trouble — both in yourself and in the people around you.Pay attention to one sentence you repeat to yourself when things get hard. Then ask: Is that voice truth, or is it something that’s been shaping my choices without me realizing it?What’s coming up next:What does it take to communicate a message powerfully for God? Episode 151 of Faithful on the Clock welcomes guest Danny Brassell to equip you.Support the show!Visit the Faithful on the Clock Patreon page to choose a tier plan and become a supporting member. You'll gain access to goodies like early episode access, newsletters, and more based on the plan that's right for you.patreon.com/faithfulontheclockGive a one-off tip or donation on our Captivate support page. You can become a member there with the same great tier options you'll find at Patreon, too.Support Faithful on the ClockVisit our sister site! Faithfulonthclock.com features additional free, free-with-registration, and paid access content to grow your faith, includingsocial media archives,previously published faith-based articles,original blogs,inspirational videos,episode teasers and replaysexclusive faith-based essays and articles,exclusive videosexclusive audioexclusive in-depth devotionals.Share the show! Like these episodes? Share them on social media, in texts or emails, or in person.

Faithful on the Clock is a podcast with the mission of getting your work and faith aligned. We want you to understand Who you're serving and why so you can get more joy and legacy from every minute spent on the clock. Thanks for joining us and taking this step toward a more fulfilling job and relationship with God!Want to join us on social media?We'd love to have you stay up-to-date with the show on all our platforms!ThreadsBlueskyFacebookPinterestInstagramLinkedInYouTubeIn this episode...Managing Stress Without Losing Calling With Pat Welshhttps://faithfulontheclock.com/managing-stress-without-losing-calling-with-pat-welshIn Episode 149 of Faithful on the Clock, speaker and law enforcement officer Pat Welsh offers tips and insights for how to deal with stress even in the most difficult jobs.Timestamps:[00:04] - Intro[00:38] - Pat’s background and experience[02:39] - Pat’s integration of faith and work[04:47] - Feeling obligated toward law enforcement and meeting unique purpose[06:55] - Reconciling being in a stressful job or situation with the story of Job[17:34] - Why our identity is not what we do; our “life sentence”[23:42] - How Pat’s job influenced his marriage; advice for managing how your work influences the stress others experience[28:55] - Delegating and facing the fears underneath not doing everything yourself[42:51] - How the business world trains us to be on edge; addressing work culture to address stress[51:53] - Practical recommendations for managing stress as we adjust work culture to be healthier[01:01:32] - How to get in touch with Pat/Prayer[01:03:50] - Outro/What’s coming up nextKey takeaways:Stress has biblical precedent, and it is not evidence that God is absent. As the stories of Job and Jesus in the garden show, God often sits with us even in our most stressful hour. God does not create our suffering to test us, but can use it to rebuke the Devil and strengthen our faith.Calling often includes high stakes environments. In this sense, leadership is less about position and more about influence and impact.Faith calls believers to live out the unique purpose God created them for. This might mean we carry a significant stress load, but rejecting being a “photocopy” increases our impact.Stress around our calling or work often comes from trying to control what belongs to God. If we accept His sovereignty, the stress we might encounter is often reduced.Our work doesn’t just influence our own stress. It can influence the stress of those we care about. We can be loving to others by staying aware of this influence and working intentionally to examine our habits and goals.We can use practical strategies to manage stress even as we intentionally work to improve work environments that lead to anxiety.Pat Welsh on LinkedInWarrior Servant Leadership PodcastCTAs:Reflect about your work tasks and obligations. Identify what produces the most stress and select 1-3 strategies you can proactively use to regulate yourself.Have a candid discussion with your loved ones about how your work might be causing them stress and what you can all do to minimize the damage.What’s coming up next:Stress can lead us into unhealthy coping mechanism and poor choices. But in Episode 150 of Faithful on the Clock, Laurette Willis shows us how to transform our mistakes into a new foundation for our work.Support the show!Visit the Faithful on the Clock Patreon page to choose a tier plan and become a supporting member. You'll gain access to goodies like early episode access, newsletters, and more based on the plan that's right for you.patreon.com/faithfulontheclockGive a one-off tip or donation on our Captivate support page. You can become a member there with the same great tier options you'll find at Patreon, too.Support Faithful on the ClockVisit our sister site! Faithfulonthclock.com features additional free, free-with-registration, and paid access content to grow your faith, includingsocial media archives,previously published faith-based articles,original blogs,inspirational videos,episode teasers and replaysexclusive faith-based essays and articles,exclusive videosexclusive audioexclusive in-depth devotionals.Share the show! Like these episodes? Share them on social media, in texts or emails, or in person.

Faithful on the Clock is a podcast with the mission of getting your work and faith aligned. We want you to understand Who you're serving and why so you can get more joy and legacy from every minute spent on the clock. Thanks for joining us and taking this step toward a more fulfilling job and relationship with God!Want to join us on social media?We'd love to have you stay up-to-date with the show on all our platforms!ThreadsBlueskyFacebookPinterestInstagramLinkedInYouTubeIn this episode...Growth, Trust, and the Problem of Personal Distancehttps://faithfulontheclock.com/growth-trust-and-the-problem-of-personal-distanceEpisode 148 of Faithful on the Clock offers guidance on what to do when success and growth create distance that crumbles trust in a leader.Timestamps:[00:04] - Intro[00:41] - How distance develops between a leader and their audience and why it damages trust[03:04] - The woman with the hemorrhage and how Jesus collapsed the distance by publicly calling her out of the crowd[04:39] - The Canaanite woman and how Jesus removed the distance she had as “the other”[07:45] - The leadership lesson — trust erodes when distance becomes silence, so we must intentionally create spaces where people know they are not invisible, as Jesus did with the bleeding woman and the Canaanite[09:58] - Prayer[10:41] - Outro/What’s coming up nextKey takeaways:Growth creates distance. That’s inevitable in leadership.Trust erodes when distance becomes silence and people feel unseen.Jesus shows us that leadership doesn’t require eliminating boundaries — but it does require collapsing distance intentionally.In both Mark 5 and Matthew 15, Jesus allowed someone to press through protocol, stopped, engaged, and restored dignity publicly.People don’t expect unlimited access — they expect to know they matter.As your influence grows, your intentionality must grow with it.Don’t let your platform become a wall. Build visible moments where people are seen.CTAs:Take inventory of your distance. Where has growth created space between you and the people you serve? Identify one intentional moment this week where you can stop, turn, and let someone know they’re seen.If leadership has felt lonely or overwhelming lately, spend a few quiet minutes in prayer asking the Lord to show you where He sees you — and where He’s inviting you to see others more intentionally.What’s coming up next:Need stress relief? In Episode 149 of Faithful on the Clock, special guest Pat Welsh offers his best tips for keeping anxiety under control.Support the show!Visit the Faithful on the Clock Patreon page to choose a tier plan and become a supporting member. You'll gain access to goodies like early episode access, newsletters, and more based on the plan that's right for you.patreon.com/faithfulontheclockGive a one-off tip or donation on our Captivate support page. You can become a member there with the same great tier options you'll find at Patreon, too.Support Faithful on the ClockVisit our sister site! Faithfulonthclock.com features additional free, free-with-registration, and paid access content to grow your faith, includingsocial media archives,previously published faith-based articles,original blogs,inspirational videos,episode teasers and replaysexclusive faith-based essays and articles,exclusive videosexclusive audioexclusive in-depth devotionals.Share the show! Like these episodes? Share them on social media, in texts or emails, or in person.

Faithful on the Clock is a podcast with the mission of getting your work and faith aligned. We want you to understand Who you're serving and why so you can get more joy and legacy from every minute spent on the clock. Thanks for joining us and taking this step toward a more fulfilling job and relationship with God!Want to join us on social media?We'd love to have you stay up-to-date with the show on all our platforms!ThreadsBlueskyFacebookPinterestInstagramLinkedInYouTubeIn this episode...Understanding Soul Care with Greg Woodardhttps://faithfulontheclock.com/understanding-soul-care-with-greg-woodardWellness has become a trillion-dollar industry, but are you caring for your soul? Episode 147 of Faithful on the Clock welcomes guest Greg Woodard to help you understand soul care and how to approach it.Timestamps:[00:04] - Intro[00:43] - Greg’s background[04:10] - Definition of soul care and differentiation from self care[08:14] - The four main elements of soul care[11:05] - Why soul care is critical for leaders[13:02] - Jesus practicing soul care in Scripture[15:25] - How practicing soul care changes the way we hear God’s voice[18:30] - Advice for those who feel too busy for soul care[25:51] - How Greg takes help when he needs it; how start taking help and the value of having many people who can contribute[31:17] - Options to get started with soul care[35:36] - Surprising elements Greg encountered when writing his book[40:27] - Our identity as God’s beloved versus being valued for doing tasks[47:05] - The importance of soul care for reconnecting to God; the gap between knowing what’s right and doing what’s right and why it’s normal for the doing to lag behind the knowing[51:09] - How to learn more about and connect with Greg[52:02] - Prayer[53:18] - Outro/What’s coming up nextKey takeaways:Soul care is a holistic practice where the soul, body, mind, and emotions are all interconnected. It involves caring for multiple parts of ourselves at once to achieve ideal wellness.Soul care requires acknowledging and embracing who God really made you to be — that is what you protect in your practice. Because everyone is unique, their soul care practice also must be unique, built on distinct, personal rhythms or structures. What works for one person will not necessarily work for another.Soul care is especially important for leaders because they tend to be so busy and have heavy responsibility. It’s a reiteration of the advice to fill your cup first so you can pour out.Scripture demonstrates Jesus practicing soul care, particularly in the way He retreated from the crowds for private time with God.Soul care encourages us to slow down in a way that makes it easier to hear God’s voice. Greg’s view thus is that if you can’t take time for soul care, you’re too busy! Our calendars reveal what our priorities really are, meaning that time for soul care and God should be there. Community is essential in ensuring we can carve out time for soul care and don’t have to be responsible for everything alone. Many people can fill many small needs we have — we don’t necessarily have to depend on one person.Soul care can include a plethora of different activities. Be willing to try a bunch of options to find what works for you, rather than assuming it doesn’t work because the first one or two things you experimented with weren’t successful.While writing his book, Greg was surprised at how important it was to look at his emotions and respectfully say no to others. He found it helpful to have others check on how he was doing — developing a personal board of directors of people who truly care about you and not your accolades helps this consistently happen.Leaders often focus on what they do and take their identity from it. But Greg focuses on the fact he’s simply God’s beloved — we all are. We are precious to Him just because we are His children who give Him joy. The story of the Prodigal Son exemplifies that.In preparing for his book launch, Greg struggled with overwhelm. He recognized that he wasn’t living a lot of what he preached. Many of us are in a similar position, whether in everyday life or our faith — it’s normal for there to be a gap between what we know is right to do and actually completing the practice. Scripture reflects even the early disciples understanding Jesus’ teaching but still struggling with sin. But we can be self-forgiving and recommit to growth within our practice, and we don’t have to wait for perfection before we share the good things that we know.Leading Without Burning Out — Gregory WoodardLeadership from Within | Discover Your Leadership Potential — Gregory WoodardGregory Woodard | Transform Your Life NowCTAs:Self assess your current soul care practice. Identify which areas are strong or weak.Select one activity to try for soul care this week.What’s coming up next:We all want to grow ourselves and our businesses. But Episode 148 of Faithful on the Clock looks at a paradox — our ability to connect deeply in a way that builds trust can diminish the bigger or more popular we get.Support the show!Visit the Faithful on the Clock Patreon page to choose a tier plan and become a supporting member. You'll gain access to goodies like early episode access, newsletters, and more based on the plan that's right for you.patreon.com/faithfulontheclockGive a one-off tip or donation on our Captivate support page. You can become a member there with the same great tier options you'll find at Patreon, too.Support Faithful on the ClockVisit our sister site! Faithfulonthclock.com features additional free, free-with-registration, and paid access content to grow your faith, includingsocial media archives,previously published faith-based articles,original blogs,inspirational videos,episode teasers and replaysexclusive faith-based essays and articles,exclusive videosexclusive audioexclusive in-depth devotionals.Share the show! Like these episodes? Share them on social media, in texts or emails, or in person.

Faithful on the Clock is a podcast with the mission of getting your work and faith aligned. We want you to understand Who you're serving and why so you can get more joy and legacy from every minute spent on the clock. Thanks for joining us and taking this step toward a more fulfilling job and relationship with God!Want to join us on social media?We'd love to have you stay up-to-date with the show on all our platforms!ThreadsBlueskyFacebookPinterestInstagramLinkedInYouTubeIn this episode...Fitting Work into the Life You Want with Peter Kolathttps://faithfulontheclock.com/fitting-work-into-the-life-you-want-with-peter-kolatDo you fit life around work, or work around life? In Episode 146 of Faithful on the Clock, guest Peter Kolat shows us how to do the latter and find the authentic self God designed us to have.Timestamps:[00:04] - Intro[00:46] - Peter’s bio and background[03:54] - Why Peter takes the coaching approach that he does[06:44] - Flipping the script about organizing life around work[11:28] - How to start logistically flipping the script by intentionally creating basic bookends in the day[13:47] - The role of boundary setting in fitting work into life, not life into work; getting others on board about what you are doing in a compassionate way[17:43] - Addressing people pleasing to better hold necessary boundaries[20:10] - How to know whether your vision is really a vision or just your own ego talking[22:11] - How fear can drive you away from your real vision; when fear is actually a healthy signal to keep going; fearlessness and the meaning of courage[29:36] - Looking at vision with a long-term versus short-term lens[32:02] - How to handle getting hit with roadblocks on the way to building your vision; discerning whether the vision you have really is from God when you have lots of trouble[38:33] - Looking for the full set of skills you have versus sticking to the skills you think you already have; loving on your fears as you explore what God has equipped you to do[44:05] - Peter’s core message from the book; the need for self love[47:16] - Prayer/Where to find out more about Peter and buy Authentic Self Rebirth[48:53] - Outro/What’s coming up nextKey takeaways:Peter’s philosophy around building the life you want BEFORE establishing work stems from his own difficult life experiences. Establishing that philosophy and framework helped him naturally lean into coaching others.Our authentic self usually gets blunted by the world, but our authentic self is who God originally designed us to be in His image.We can get exceptionally clear on the vision for multiple aspects of our lives, such as relationships, worship, etc. Peter recommends using that clarity to create a highly structured calendar you can create healthy boundaries around. You can start with one essential vision point and add more to the calendar over time. Sticking to the calendar and evaluating it when you get requests or proposals can help you be intentional about changes in your life and protect your original vision.Transparency around what you are doing and why can help you avoid people pleasing as you build your vision. It’s also helpful to discern what you can handle or pass off to a VA or someone else.To ensure your vision is not egocentric, dig into why you really want the vision you do. Clarify whether it’s a heart goal (God-aligned) or a head goal (world/fear aligned).Subconscious fears reinforced by the world (e.g., there’s no safety net) can drive us toward visions that aren’t really aligned with who we are (e.g., I have to get a job that makes me rich). But there is also a healthy fear that comes when we approach new experiences. That kind of fear can be a signal that we are stretching ourselves in a positive way toward where we need to go. It’s normal as we leave our comfort zone.Courage means we move forward despite our fears, not that we are fearless. Remembering the story of Joshua and that God is always with us despite our emotions can give us the boldness we need to continue.Most people approach vision with a short-term view, similar to how people look at the current screen on a GPS. But with God, we need to trust His long term vision — He has a viable route already laid out, even if we can’t see the entirety of it at once.If you believe God has laid out a vision for you, keep going, even if there are hardships. Quiet time with Him can help you hear His guidance better, and every time you hit a ceiling (which is inevitable in every venture), you’ll learn.We can discover new skills God has given to us as we try to build our vision. This might include some uncomfortable moments, but beyond the discomfort we can find success and joy.Many of us struggle to love ourselves, but doing so is essential to awakening. Accepting love from others can be a catalyst that helps us begin our own self-love, as it helps us to see the good things others discern in us.Authentic Self Rebirth Book CTAs:Explore Peter’s book in more depth.Reflect and identify one area of yourself that you have been denying or hiding. Identify another area that you have no trouble showing to the world. What makes them different? Consider what would happen if you revealed the part you have hidden and how it might change your life.Make a list of the top three things you wish to eliminate from your life and three things you want to bring in. Be specific about how each of those elements would influence you and others if you made the shifts.What’s coming up next:You take care of your body and even consider mental health, but do you practice soul care? Guest Greg Woodard joins Faithful on the Clock to explain what soul care is and why it’s critical on our walk with God.Support the show!Visit the Faithful on the Clock Patreon page to choose a tier plan and become a supporting member. You'll gain access to goodies like early episode access, newsletters, and more based on the plan that's right for you.patreon.com/faithfulontheclockGive a one-off tip or donation on our Captivate support page. You can become a member there with the same great tier options you'll find at Patreon, too.Support Faithful on the ClockVisit our sister site! Faithfulonthclock.com features additional free, free-with-registration, and paid access content to grow your faith, includingsocial media archives,previously published faith-based articles,original blogs,inspirational videos,episode teasers and replaysexclusive faith-based essays and articles,exclusive videosexclusive audioexclusive in-depth devotionals.Share the show! Like these episodes? Share them on social...

Faithful on the Clock is a podcast with the mission of getting your work and faith aligned. We want you to understand Who you're serving and why so you can get more joy and legacy from every minute spent on the clock. Thanks for joining us and taking this step toward a more fulfilling job and relationship with God!Want to join us on social media?We'd love to have you stay up-to-date with the show on all our platforms!ThreadsBlueskyFacebookPinterestInstagramLinkedInYouTubeIn this episode...Stepping Forward with Elaine Lankfordhttps://faithfulontheclock.com/stepping-forward-with-elaine-lankfordWhere do women fit into leadership in the church, if at all? Faithful on the Clock dives in with guest Elaine Lankford to encourage women forward and to unify men and women for Christ.Timestamps:[00:04] - Intro[00:49] - Elaine’s background/bio[03:23] - Elaine’s connections with Africa and the growth of She Steps Forward[10:20] - What most surprised Elaine in her work in Africa; cultural perspectives[12:30] - How African and American women can support each other[14:53] - The largest misinterpretations Elaine has encountered around scripture; Paul and his desire not to subvert women, but to create order in the early church; the need for all believers to study for themselves rather than simply accepting what they are taught[27:23] - How God welcomes our questions; Elaine’s experience diving deep into Scripture and discovering the women in the Bible[32:52] - Why it’s OK for men to follow and use their gifts in support if that’s where God wants them; the need for all believers to step into their gifts regardless of gender; the relationship of Adam and Eve with Eve as an ezra (helper)[41:05] - How the fall impacted the relationship of Adam and Eve and larger gender division[43:45] - What men and women can do to heal the gender divide in the church[52:44] - The biggest takeaway Elaine wants listeners to take from the show[54:28] - How to get in touch with Elaine and learn more about her work[55:14] - Prayer[55:57] - Outro/What’s coming up nextKey takeaways:Elaine’s coaching and leadership for women began after needing to pivot her career. After feeling called to lift up God’s daughters, she began connecting with women and organizations in Africa.Women in Africa still deal with a heavy atmosphere of oppression, but they are go-getters who know what they want to do for their businesses, ministries, or nonprofits. They simply need help knowing how to get there and are eager to learn how Americans make everything work. Americans can look at the tenacity of African women and refuse to quit.Both in America and Africa, Elaine sees misinterpretations around how women are supposed to be submissive, specifically around 1 Timothy and 2 Corinthians. She encourages both men and women to study for themselves and notes that patriarchy is perpetuated in part by people simply accepting male-oriented interpretations. Spiritual growth from asking questions and going deep into Scripture is a good thing!Deep study of the Word can help women — and men — understand the wonderful roles God placed women into. Stories of Deborah, Lydia, and others can show women that women can be strong leaders in the church and in business.Helping women step forward into their gifts is not meant to challenge any role or authority God might place men into, but rather to call all believers to make full use of what God has given them. The goal is to heal the gender divide for a stronger church that can better glorify Who God is.Men can be pushed by culture to step into leadership even when that is not what God has gifted them to do. In those situations, it is OK for men to step back and use their gifts to support those God wants in positions of leadership. Both men and women should support or lead as God equips them.In Adam and Eve’s relationship, Eve is an ezra — a strong helper. This means we need to revisit the traditional narrative of Eve being lower or lesser than Eve, and instead see her as fully equipped to support Adam in what he would need. We are all meant to lean on each other, as Galatians calls us to, because as God noted in the beginning, it is not good for us to be alone.Healing the division between men and women in the church requires more dialog, self-reflection, and self-study of Scripture. Elaine encourages men who hold traditional ideals of women in the church to take that to God in prayer. All of us need to check our feelings at the door and avoid letting our emotions get in the way, asking ourselves if we are truly allowing God to be the authority.When we have tried unsuccessfully to heal divide with sufficient due diligence, we have permission to shake the dust off our feet and go where God can use us.Elaine wants women to know that they are seen, heard, and available to God. She emphasizes that men are loved, too, and that, like women, they have their own giftings.Empowering Women to Lead with Faith & PurposeShe Steps Forward Coaching | Faith-Based Women’s CoachCTAs:Select one deep-dive or extended Bible study to challenge yourself to go deeper into God’s word.Invite others you know to have an open conversation about gender in the church and investigate what the Word says about it.What’s coming up next:Are you fitting your life into your work…or placing work into the life you really want? Guest Peter Kolat joins Faithful on the Clock to help people rethink their work-life priorities, authenticity, and structure.Support the show!Visit the Faithful on the Clock Patreon page to choose a tier plan and become a supporting member. You'll gain access to goodies like early episode access, newsletters, and more based on the plan that's right for you.patreon.com/faithfulontheclockGive a one-off tip or donation on our Captivate support page. You can become a member there with the same great tier options you'll find at Patreon, too.Support Faithful on the ClockVisit our sister site! Faithfulonthclock.com features additional free, free-with-registration, and paid access content to grow your faith, includingsocial media archives,previously published faith-based articles,original blogs,inspirational videos,episode teasers and replaysexclusive faith-based essays and articles,exclusive videosexclusive audioexclusive in-depth devotionals.Share the show! Like these episodes? Share them on social media, in texts or emails, or in person.

Faithful on the Clock is a podcast with the mission of getting your work and faith aligned. We want you to understand Who you're serving and why so you can get more joy and legacy from every minute spent on the clock. Thanks for joining us and taking this step toward a more fulfilling job and relationship with God!Want to join us on social media?We'd love to have you stay up-to-date with the show on all our platforms!ThreadsBlueskyFacebookPinterestInstagramLinkedInYouTubeIn this episode...What to Do When Rewards Don't Comehttps://faithfulontheclock.com/what-to-do-when-rewards-dont-comeWe’re taught that hard work yields reward. Episode 144 of Faithful on the Clock highlights what to do when it doesn’t.Timestamps:[00:04] - Intro[00:47] - Invitation to set a foundation by reviewing Episode 139 on gratitude[01:18] - Acknowledgement that not getting rewards can mess with our sense of justice, and that the brain’s reward mechanisms are part of what keep us motivated to work[01:54] - Personal struggle as inspiration for the show; acknowledgement other listeners might be similarly struggling[03:28] - Lesson from Habakkuk (and others) — anchor yourself in what God has promised rather than what has already arrived[06:17] - Lesson from Noah — stick with the last instruction you have from God (even if you have to go into the Word to get it)[07:47] - Lesson from Joseph — hold to the values and character God gave you, identify what values you’ll defend, and continue to foster excellence even if you’re in an obscure place; know that rewards can be bigger than what you expect for yourself[09:31] - Lesson from the parable of the workers — don’t compare yourself; look for where else the reward might be to remember that God’s generosity is always present and active[11:53] - Lesson from the parable of the talents — God’s expectation is simply that we try to steward well, not that we produce specific yields; remember He is more concerned with your faithfulness and give Him that when you have nothing else[13:33] - Lesson from Elijah — acknowledge the small little gifts and mercies God puts on your path on the way to the bigger victory, and take rest when you need it[15:32] - Practical strategies — be more direct about what you want and open lines of communication; increase your visibility where possible; practice altruism; and find what’s satisfying about your work process itself[18:49] - Prayer[19:40] - Outro/What’s coming up nextKey takeaways:When you aren’t feeling properly rewarded, first ground yourself in the idea that God is the greatest reward we can have, just as He is.The story of Habakkuk shows us that it’s OK to question what God is doing when we don’t understand and don’t have tangible rewards in the moment. Other stories from scripture, such as with Jeremiah, David, and Ruth, all show God’s servants lamenting but choosing hope before evidence (reward) arrived.Noah’s story shows us the power of moving forward through a focus on the last instruction from God. He did not have quick resolution, but he was willing to obey according to what God had said. We can seek instruction from God through both prayer and the Word.Joseph’s story shows us that reward is not necessarily limited to us. It can extend to others. He demonstrates the value of holding to values, character, and integrity even when we’re in obscurity.The parable of the workers shows us that God’s grace is always working. Rather than comparing ourselves to others, we can look for where God is extending mercy and reward to those who genuinely need it, knowing He grasps love and what’s fair better than we do.The story of the talents highlights that God is more concerned with our faithfulness and intent than whether a specific reward/outcome manifests. This means that, even if we aren’t getting rewards in the world like we expected, we still can come to God with confidence. Our rewards don’t determine access or worth.In the story of Elijah, we learn that it’s OK to take small rewards and mercies as we prepare to continue to serve. We can rest up when it’s needed and allow God to restore us.Practical strategies to use when you are not rewarded include being more direct about what you want, increasing your visibility, practicing altruism, and trying to identify what about the process of your work is rewarding.CTAs:Make a list of rewards you would like to get from your work. Note whether they are mostly material or intrinsic. How does each reward benefit or hurt you?Look through the Bible to find a story of a servant of God being rewarded that resonates with you. Be specific about what you connect with. Find another story of reward that feels absurd. Be specific about what seems odd.What’s coming up next:Women don’t always feel confident entering leadership roles. In Episode 145 of Faithful on the Clock, coach Elaine Lankford helps women step forward into authority.Support the show!Visit the Faithful on the Clock Patreon page to choose a tier plan and become a supporting member. You'll gain access to goodies like early episode access, newsletters, and more based on the plan that's right for you.patreon.com/faithfulontheclockGive a one-off tip or donation on our Captivate support page. You can become a member there with the same great tier options you'll find at Patreon, too.Support Faithful on the ClockVisit our sister site! Faithfulonthclock.com features additional free, free-with-registration, and paid access content to grow your faith, includingsocial media archives,previously published faith-based articles,original blogs,inspirational videos,episode teasers and replaysexclusive faith-based essays and articles,exclusive videosexclusive audioexclusive in-depth devotionals.Share the show! Like these episodes? Share them on social media, in texts or emails, or in person.

Faithful on the Clock is a podcast with the mission of getting your work and faith aligned. We want you to understand Who you're serving and why so you can get more joy and legacy from every minute spent on the clock. Thanks for joining us and taking this step toward a more fulfilling job and relationship with God!Want to join us on social media?We'd love to have you stay up-to-date with the show on all our platforms!ThreadsBlueskyFacebookPinterestInstagramLinkedInYouTubeIn this episode...Persisting for the Long Haul with Dan Parrhttps://faithfulontheclock.com/persisting-for-the-long-haul-with-dan-parrThe business world likes to preach fast results, but in Episode 143 of Faithful on the Clock, voiceover artist and publisher Dan Parr reminds us of the value of persistence.Timestamps:[00:04] - Intro[00:39] - Dan’s welcome and background; how he got started working on the Easy to Understand, Read Bible[05:36] - Dan’s experience of not getting overwhelmed through the project[06:45] - Keeping the majesty of the Bible while achieving simplicity and accessibility[09:26] - Addressing conceptions about the audience; simple doesn’t mean unintelligent; the translation as a gateway[12:51] - Advice for those who don’t feel like they could persist in work God calls them to do[14:39] - Advice for those doubting themselves or encountering pushback for not being “qualified” for a big, long-term project[17:56] - The revelation Dan had about God as he completed the narration[20:37] - How the project changed Dan’s perspective of the big picture and being open to new things[21:31] - What initially caused Dan to be resistant to the project[23:26] - The skills Dan realized through the project that God had equipped him with[28:50] - Advice for those who feel called to persist but who aren’t getting the signal to continue from the world[30:34] - How Dan is measuring success on the project[32:40] - What Dan wants readers to take away from his translation[35:01] - What Dan learned from getting enmeshed in Word during the project[36:38] - The legacy Dan hopes for with the Bible and concepts for future work[39:14] - How to find more of Dan’s work[39:48] - Prayer[41:11] - OutroKey takeaways:Dan started his Bible narration work with the book of Luke. After his corporate job suddenly ended, God soon led him to continue to the entire Bible.Because Dan did the project book by book, he had milestone gratification and didn’t get overwhelmed.Dan strove to make the translation accessible, not “dumbed down.” He aims for his work to be an “I get it now” gateway that gets people to seek God more intently.Dan doesn’t consider himself persistent by nature, but he recognizes that God used his ability to dig in when he has a knack for something. He believes that when God calls you to operate in an area where you’re already good, He’ll equip you to accomplish the purposes He has.Dan encourages those who get criticism or caution for being unqualified to listen to others but also try to get a clear message from God. It’s possible for people to walk new paths and leave the status quo if that’s what God intends.God is a God of intense love, and we can see the pattern of that love through the entire Bible.Telling God no can make you miserable — accept that God is the star and don’t fight what He asks you to persist with. Even when we doubt ourselves, we can trust in His ability to work through us, and He often prepares us before we even realize that’s what He was doing.Hold everything loosely — God can change what we do in an instant.When you don’t get confirmation from the world that you should persist, ask yourself if you are doing the work for your own glory or for God’s.Dan doesn’t measure success of the project by numbers, instead letting God do the back-end sales work while he does his own job — creating the content.Working on the project helped Dan realize that he’s part of the Biblical line — he’s just telling his family story.Thanks to completing the new translation, Dan is filled with ideas for even more potential projects.CTAs:Explore Dan’s work, perhaps starting with his translation of Luke.Identify some of the elements of the Bible that have been difficult for you to understand, or where you’ve gotten “stuck” understanding the Word. Consider what might happen if you got clarity in those areas.Test a few other translations of the Bible to see if any “click” with you. Try to be specific about why a translation works for you, such as the rhythm, specific word choices, etc.What’s coming up next:All of us like finally being rewarded for our effort. But what if you work…and the rewards don’t come? Episode 144 of Faithful on the Clock explores.Support the show!Visit the Faithful on the Clock Patreon page to choose a tier plan and become a supporting member. You'll gain access to goodies like early episode access, newsletters, and more based on the plan that's right for you.patreon.com/faithfulontheclockGive a one-off tip or donation on our Captivate support page. You can become a member there with the same great tier options you'll find at Patreon, too.Support Faithful on the ClockVisit our sister site! Faithfulonthclock.com features additional free, free-with-registration, and paid access content to grow your faith, includingsocial media archives,previously published faith-based articles,original blogs,inspirational videos,episode teasers and replaysexclusive faith-based essays and articles,exclusive videosexclusive audioexclusive in-depth devotionals.Share the show! Like these episodes? Share them on social media, in texts or emails, or in person.

Faithful on the Clock is a podcast with the mission of getting your work and faith aligned. We want you to understand Who you're serving and why so you can get more joy and legacy from every minute spent on the clock. Thanks for joining us and taking this step toward a more fulfilling job and relationship with God!Want to join us on social media?We'd love to have you stay up-to-date with the show on all our platforms!ThreadsBlueskyFacebookPinterestInstagramLinkedInYouTubeIn this episode...Getting Productive for the Right Reasons with Mark Struczewskihttps://faithfulontheclock.com/getting-productive-for-the-right-reasons-with-mark-struczewskiWe all want to be productive. But are we being productive for the good things God calls us to? Mark Struczewski (Mister Productivity) helps us figure it out in Episode 142 of Faithful on the Clock.Timestamps:[00:04] - Intro[00:37] - Secondary intro and Mark’s background[03:15] - Getting happiness from productivity[05:24] - Quitting excuses and making productivity choices[11:31] - How to practice patience with ourselves in a way that honors God while being productive[15:23] - Addressing distractions and differentiating them from God’s movement on us[20:52] - Productivity is not easy, but fun breaks are fine[27:34] - Not sharing a bad mood when trying to be productive[25:45] - The Scripture story Mark offers as a final takeaway[31:18] - Prayer; Mark’s closing freebie offer[32:54] - Outro/What’s coming up nextKey takeaways:Productivity can be a joyful thing!We might not always be in a situation where we love what we’re doing. But we can make intentional choices to get there and be productive in the way we want.There’s often more than one path that’s viable to get to what we love, so we shouldn’t be afraid to look at multiple “how”s to do something. But each path we explore deserves due diligence before we move on.Most of us need to develop our patience muscle when it comes to productivity. Doing so can help us appreciate the hard work involved in our productivity.Making a list of the distractions we encounter for a brief period of time can help us grasp how much other elements pull our attention away. But we can mitigate most distractions quickly and be intentional about our scheduling.When God calls us to do something in the day, that’s a good distraction!Productivity is not necessarily easy, but we can ask ourselves how God is shaping us through the difficulties in the work.It’s OK to give yourself grace and take breaks as you work — that’s important for keeping productivity joyful.We need to be careful not to spread a poor mood as we work. But sharing our trials in the right way can help others be empathetic and learn from what we’re going through.God will mold us into the person He wants us to be as we work.Home - Mister ProductivityCTAs:Visit misterproductivity.com to take the productivity scorecard quiz and assess your productivity.Challenge yourself to be more selective about the work you opt to do, clarifying whether it connects to your calling and purpose. Set boundaries where you can to prioritize the work that aligns with what God wants you to do.Try adjusting your technology settings or environment to reduce the number of distractions that creep into your work.What’s coming up next:Episode 143 of Faithful on the Clock welcomes publisher and narrator Dan Parr for a discussion of what it takes to persist in working for God for the long haul.Support the show!Visit the Faithful on the Clock Patreon page to choose a tier plan and become a supporting member. You'll gain access to goodies like early episode access, newsletters, and more based on the plan that's right for you.patreon.com/faithfulontheclockGive a one-off tip or donation on our Captivate support page. You can become a member there with the same great tier options you'll find at Patreon, too.Support Faithful on the ClockVisit our sister site! Faithfulonthclock.com features additional free, free-with-registration, and paid access content to grow your faith, includingsocial media archives,previously published faith-based articles,original blogs,inspirational videos,episode teasers and replaysexclusive faith-based essays and articles,exclusive videosexclusive audioexclusive in-depth devotionals.Share the show! Like these episodes? Share them on social media, in texts or emails, or in person.

Faithful on the Clock is a podcast with the mission of getting your work and faith aligned. We want you to understand Who you're serving and why so you can get more joy and legacy from every minute spent on the clock. Thanks for joining us and taking this step toward a more fulfilling job and relationship with God!Want to join us on social media? We'd love to have you stay up-to-date with the show on all our platforms!ThreadsBlueskyFacebookPinterestInstagramLinkedInYouTubeIn this episode...Joy by a Thousand Jolts https://faithfulontheclock.com/joy-by-a-thousand-jolts Want to feel more joy that strengthens your faith? Episode 141 of Faithful on the Clock looks at how small, consistent joy experiences can reshape our neurology for better happiness and connection to God.Timestamps:[00:04] - Intro[00:44] - The cultural view and pursuit of big joy experiences[02:20] - Key neuroscience — many small joy experiences can strengthen the neural pathways involved in feeling happiness, and we don’t need huge joy experiences for that to happen[03:09] - Why small jolts of joy is realistic for the modern workplace[04:56] - The Joy Reset principles and how small joy experiences can retrain the brain’s neural architecture[06:09] - The connection between joy and faith; why neurological training might make it easier to connect to God and religion[07:16] - Neurology as a physical component of faith[08:36] - Encouragement to address underlying physical challenges that might interfere with neurological training for joy[10:27] - Prayer[11:13] - Outro/What’s coming up nextKey takeaways:Contemporary culture — including work — often trains us to seek out big lightning bolts of joy.Neuroscience research confirms that emotionally strong events deeply encode, making them more memorable. But we also know that repeated small experiences strengthen neural pathways. This means that the more small joy moments we have, the easier it becomes to access feelings of happiness.The way small moments of joy build good architecture in the brain means that we can learn to be resilient even if our work environment isn’t the greatest at offering a lot of big elements to be happy about.Dr. MaryCatherine’s book, The Joy Reset, outlines how trauma can block the brain’s ability to access joy. She argues that small, consistent joy experiences can reset the neurological architecture necessary for happiness and resilience.Joy and faith intersect. When we intentionally do neurological training toward joy, we might also make it easier to connect to our faith, since joy is a core teaching of Christianity. Neuroplasticity is a long game. We might need to practice intentionally seeking small jolts of joy for many months or even years before we really see results in our brain architecture.It’s wise to address potential underlying physical issues that could interfere with building a healthier neurological architecture.Relevant Links:The Joy Reset - AmazonCTAs:Review The Joy Reset to better understand the mechanisms that inhibit our ability to feel joy.Practice mindfulness around small jolts of joy by writing down the tiny things that feel good for you through the day. Use your list to increase your awareness about what gives you the most joy and how you can more intentionally seek it out.What’s coming up next:Episode 142 of Faithful on the Clock welcomes Mark Struczewski — better known as Mister Productivity — for a look at how we can be productive for the right reasons in our faith.Support the show!Visit the Faithful on the Clock Patreon page to choose a tier plan and become a supporting member. You'll gain access to goodies like early episode access, newsletters, and more based on the plan that's right for you.patreon.com/faithfulontheclockGive a one-off tip or donation on our Captivate support page. You can become a member there with the same great tier options you'll find at Patreon, too.Support Faithful on the Clock Visit our sister site! Faithfulonthclock.com features additional free, free-with-registration, and paid access content to grow your faith, including social media archives, previously published faith-based articles, original blogs, inspirational videos, episode teasers and replaysexclusive faith-based essays and articles, exclusive videosexclusive audioexclusive in-depth devotionals.Share the show! Like these episodes? Share them on social media, in texts or emails, or in person.

Faithful on the Clock is a podcast with the mission of getting your work and faith aligned. We want you to understand Who you're serving and why so you can get more joy and legacy from every minute spent on the clock. Thanks for joining us and taking this step toward a more fulfilling job and relationship with God!Want to join us on social media? We'd love to have you stay up-to-date with the show on all our platforms!ThreadsBlueskyFacebookPinterestInstagramLinkedInYouTubeIn this episode...Redeeming Time with Lissa Figgins https://faithfulontheclock.com/redeeming-time-with-lissa-figgins Feel frantic because you don’t have enough hours in the day? Time-scaling strategist Lissa Figgins joins us in Episode 140 of Faithful on the Clock to redeem your time.Timestamps:[00:04] - Intro[00:51] - Lissa’s bio and background for Redeem Her Time[07:07] - Busy-ness as a sense of obligation; doing things WITH God[09:10] - Why busy-ness is the Devil’s #1 distraction tactic[11:57] - Busy-ness as a superficial mask that interferes with connection; the perception of availability[13:38] - Why time management is the problem, not the solution[16:11] - ROI versus ROTI[18:20] - Time and opportunity costs; advice for those who don’t feel like they can reinvest time elsewhere because of the way they’ve already invested (the four “shuns”)[21:04] - The importance of Selah pauses and the value of time with God[25:00] - The practice of time anchoring; the balance of pouring out and taking in[29:49] - Shifting from managing time to multiplying it; how multiplying time is a testimony that sets believers apart[39:54] - Scriptures and resources Lissa wanted to share[44:29] - Prayer/thank you to Lissa[45:24] - Outro/What’s coming up nextKey takeaways:Lissa relates to being a busy-ness owner, having shifted away from always cramming her calendar after her doctor helped her see how her anxiety around time management was influencing her body and health.Busy-ness is a tool of Satan because it keeps us distracted from all the good work we might do for God. It prevents people from seeing who we really are, as it can become a superficial mask that hinders real connection.Time management is not a solution — it’s the problem. Time management is based on the need to control and maintain, which means it’s not focused on growth. Instead, it’s based in a feeling of lack or fear.ROTI — return on time invested — is a spin on the traditional idea of financial ROI (return on investment). It helps people to focus on whether they are getting a good return from the time they are investing, keeping them aware of how they are stewarding their 24 hours. ROTI can include assets, but it also can include intangibles oriented around the fruit of the Spirit.Lissa names four “shuns” that get in the way of good time stewarding — expectations, obligations, interruptions, and distractions. She asserts that we CAN pivot away from activities that do not have a good ROTI, just as we pivot away from financial investments that aren’t producing a good yield.Selah pauses are intentional breaks we can put into our schedule or day to refresh ourselves, reflect, and spend time with God. They help us to both take in what we need and pour out to others, which connects to Lissa’s larger concept of time anchoring.When we multiply time and get good ROTI, others tend to notice. Our ROTI becomes a testimony that opens the door to sharing Jesus.2 Corinthians 9:8 reminds us that God is our multiplier and supplier.Lissa’s podcast (Productive and Profitable CEO) and planner are both good resources for those looking to steward time well and get better ROTI.Get Back 5 Hrs THIS Week (+ get back more from your time)CTAs:Identify the top 3 things you would like to accomplish with God or what you’d like to improve most in your life by properly stewarding your time.Review your calendar and ensure you have included some Selah pauses for rest and reflection.Sign up for Lissa’s private podcast to keep learning more time stewarding insights and strategies!What’s coming up next:In the Christmas season, we rightly focus on the massive joy held in the birth of Jesus. Episode 141 of Episode reveals how He continuously renews us with joy by a thousand jolts.Support the show!Visit the Faithful on the Clock Patreon page to choose a tier plan and become a supporting member. You'll gain access to goodies like early episode access, newsletters, and more based on the plan that's right for you.patreon.com/faithfulontheclockGive a one-off tip or donation on our Captivate support page. You can become a member there with the same great tier options you'll find at Patreon, too.Support Faithful on the Clock Visit our sister site! Faithfulonthclock.com features additional free, free-with-registration, and paid access content to grow your faith, including social media archives, previously published faith-based articles, original blogs, inspirational videos, episode teasers and replaysexclusive faith-based essays and articles, exclusive videosexclusive audioexclusive in-depth devotionals.Share the show! Like these episodes? Share them on social media, in texts or emails, or in person.

Faithful on the Clock is a podcast with the mission of getting your work and faith aligned. We want you to understand Who you're serving and why so you can get more joy and legacy from every minute spent on the clock. Thanks for joining us and taking this step toward a more fulfilling job and relationship with God!Want to join us on social media? We'd love to have you stay up-to-date with the show on all our platforms!ThreadsBlueskyFacebookPinterestInstagramLinkedInYouTubeIn this episode...Gratitude, God, and Perceiving Proper Value https://faithfulontheclock.com/gratitude-god-and-perceiving-proper-value Most people consider gratitude during the Thanksgiving holiday. But Episode 139 of Faithful on the Clock asks: Are you grateful for God as He is, or just His blessings?Timestamps:[00:04] - Intro[00:42] - My experience of feeling inferior walking past nice houses; how a sense of material items, gratitude, and the sense of self can get wrapped up together[03:53] - The futility of trying not to want what you want; the white bear problem[04:38] - What’s better than the things we covet; the relationship between the value we perceive and the amount of gratitude we have and how it influences our ability where gratitude gets directed[06:22] - God sees us as the most valuable and is grateful for us, so much that He gave His Son, Jesus[7:18] - The need to honor the reciprocity in our relationship with God; why we need to be grateful not just for God’s blessings, but for God as He is; how Job’s story shows reciprocal value and gratitude between God and Job and God correcting the Devil about what love is[10:47] - Prayer[11:43] - Outro/What’s coming up nextKey takeaways:When I was walking my dog, seeing expensive houses made me feel inferior and sad, despite what I know about God’s provision and instruction not to store up treasures on Earth. My sense of worth was jumbled up with the worth of material items and perceived blessings.Gurus will tell you to learn to be more grateful for what you have, but the best way to abandon something is to find something better to replace it with. Because gratitude is proportional to the value we place on something, we have to learn to put value on the right things to be grateful for them. This includes God!Our relationship with God is reciprocal. He sees value in and is grateful for us. In return, we should see value in and be grateful for Him, not just the blessings He might offer to us. God doesn’t want to be appreciated just for what He gives, but rather, for Who He is.This Thanksgiving, challenge yourself to tell the Devil that your love and gratitude is for God, not just stuff or conveniences. This replays the story of Job, where Job put the Devil in His place by loving and appreciating God even when all of the blessings God had given to him were stolen.Grace in the Grind: 52 Devotions for Thriving in the Workplace by Wanda M Thibodeaux | AmazonGrace in the Grind: 52 Devotions for Thriving in the Workplace by Wanda M Thibodeaux | Barnes & Noble®Wanda Thibodeaux on LinkedIn -- Being Grateful for God as He IsCTAs:If you identify specific blessings God has given to you, express gratitude, but then also identify the points of His character behind that blessing you can appreciate.What’s coming up next:Most of us never feel like we have enough time. But in Episode 140 of Faithful on the Clock Lissa Figgins explains why stewarding our hours is better than managing them.Support the show!Visit the Faithful on the Clock Patreon page to choose a tier plan and become a supporting member. You'll gain access to goodies like early episode access, newsletters, and more based on the plan that's right for you.patreon.com/faithfulontheclockGive a one-off tip or donation on our Captivate support page. You can become a member there with the same great tier options you'll find at Patreon, too.Support Faithful on the Clock Visit our sister site! Faithfulonthclock.com features additional free, free-with-registration, and paid access content to grow your faith, including social media archives, previously published faith-based articles, original blogs, inspirational videos, episode teasers and replaysexclusive faith-based essays and articles, exclusive videos,exclusive audio,exclusive in-depth devotionals.Share the show! Like these episodes? Share them on social media, in texts or emails, or in person.

Faithful on the Clock is a podcast with the mission of getting your work and faith aligned. We want you to understand Who you're serving and why so you can get more joy and legacy from every minute spent on the clock. Thanks for joining us and taking this step toward a more fulfilling job and relationship with God!Want to join us on social media? We'd love to have you stay up-to-date with the show on all our platforms!ThreadsBlueskyFacebookPinterestInstagramLinkedInYouTubeIn this episode...Announcing Grace in the Grind, the Faithful on the Clock Devotional https://faithfulontheclock.com/announcing-grace-in-the-grind-the-faithful-on-the-clock-devotional Need a resource to connect more deeply to God each week of the year? Episode 138 of Faithful on the Clock shares the Grace in the Grind devotional for Christian professionals.Timestamps:[00:04] - Intro[00:33] - Grace in the Grind origin in weekly Faithful on the Clock challenges[02:04] - Review #1: Jeff Meyer[03:15] - Review #2: Peggy Bodde[04:07] - The intentionality of the devotional offering both hope and an encouragement toward repentance [07:15] - Version options available[08:30] - Official launch date, preorder, and extra value within endnotes [10:16] - Outro/What’s coming up nextKey takeaways:Grace in the Grind is a devotional that expands the weekly challenges available each week from Faithful on the Clock. It’s designed to help professionals truly take action in addition to improving their mindfulness around God.Initial reviews from Pastor Jeff Meyer and Sacred Work founder Peggy Bodde point out the practicality, honesty, and warmth of the devotional.The goal of the devotional is to encourage, but also to reveal where you can change your life, in the spirit of Jesus’ call to repentance.Grace in the Grind will be available in all major formats — softcover, hardcover, ebook, and audiobook. Thibodeaux recorded the audiobook herself to ensure the book felt personal to listeners.The official launch date for Grace in the Grind on Amazon and Ingram Spark is November 5, 2025. The book is priced to reflect the additional value and uniqueness of the more than 50 endnotes included.Grace in the Grind: 52 Devotions for the Workplace | AmazonGrace in the Grind: 52 Devotions for Thriving in the Workplace | Barnes & Noble®CTAs:Place your order for Grace in the Grind now, for yourself, a friend, or both! Share the purchase page links with anyone you think might benefit from the devotional and help get the word out.Leave a review once you’ve had a chance to get your copy of Grace in the Grind!What’s coming up next:In the Thanksgiving season, Episode 139 of Faithful on the Clock invites you to explore the relationship between gratitude, God, and perceiving proper value.Support the show!Visit the Faithful on the Clock Patreon page to choose a tier plan and become a supporting member. You'll gain access to goodies like early episode access, newsletters, and more based on the plan that's right for you.patreon.com/faithfulontheclockGive a one-off tip or donation on our Captivate support page. You can become a member there with the same great tier options you'll find at Patreon, too.Support Faithful on the Clock Visit our sister site! Faithfulonthclock.com features additional free, free-with-registration, and paid access content to grow your faith, including social media archives, previously published faith-based articles, original blogs, inspirational videos, episode teasers and replaysexclusive faith-based essays and articles, exclusive videosexclusive audioexclusive in-depth devotionals.Share the show! Like these episodes? Share them on social media, in texts or emails, or in person.

Faithful on the Clock is a podcast with the mission of getting your work and faith aligned. We want you to understand Who you're serving and why so you can get more joy and legacy from every minute spent on the clock. Thanks for joining us and taking this step toward a more fulfilling job and relationship with God!Want to join us on social media? We'd love to have you stay up-to-date with the show on all our platforms!ThreadsBlueskyFacebookPinterestInstagramLinkedInYouTubeIn this episode...Following God's Call with Matthew Terry https://faithfulontheclock.com/following-gods-call-with-matthew-terry Feeling a little scared to answer God’s call? In Episode 137 of Faithful on the Clock, special guest Matthew Terry offers encouragement through his story of being called to teach in China.Timestamps:[00:04] - Intro[00:45] - Welcome and Matthew’s background[04:27] - Matthew’s initial feelings entering his new job in China[08:37] - How Matthew’s reception assisted his transition into the classroom, recount of breaking the ice with the students[13:32] - Matthew’s advice on entering situations where you don’t know what’s going to happen[16:56] - Matthew’s experience of getting to know the students and being open to teach more than English; seeing beyond your role title to serve God[24:02] - Matthew’s advice on how to handle people who put you on guard[25:58] - Matthew’s largest takeaway from his China experience; the importance of trusting in God and accepting that He knows the “why” behind everything that happens[32:10] - Discussion of “English Corner” and Matthew’s creative projects[36:14] - Matthew’s advice for people who feel called but who have a mentality that they are x, y, and z, maybe not having the skills necessary; trusting God to sell you[41:13] - How to find about more and connect with Matthew[42:44] - Matthew’s guiding scripture and relevant student teaching story[44:47] - Matthew’s advice to people on keeping your work, calling, and relationships going for the long haul[47:00] - Prayer[47:57] - Outro/What’s coming up nextKey takeaways:Matthew received the call to go to China after being laid off and serving as a substitute teacher. After his time in China, he continued to serve, teaching in the United States as a special education classroom assistant (SECA).Matthew felt some initial nerves when first arriving in China, but seeing a familiar beer brand, having no wait at the airport, and being warmly welcome helped put him at ease.As Matthew tried to break the ice, he used play acting about himself and how he met his wife to get an initial connection with students. Simply asking God “What’s next?” got him through the rough moment and demonstrates what can happen when we surrender and trust God.Matthew used scripture to clarify with his students that he was going to be a helper and counselor for them. This helped the students feel he truly cared for them. It began Matthew’s unintended journey of teaching the students about God, not just English. In the same way, we can try to see beyond the role title we are given to see how else we can serve.Matthew did get some pushback from fellow teachers, and a particular student put him on guard. But Matthew trusted that God would deal with it all, even as he didn’t necessarily get answers about what God’s purpose was. He advises based on the experience not to be anxious about anything, even though he acknowledges that’s not easy. Trust in God was not wasted, and He always answers prayer in one way or another.Matthew is using his time in China to fuel creative projects, including “English Corner,” which is being developed into a mini-series. His goal is to use the project to bring more people to believe in God. If you have the mentality that you are x, y, and z and maybe shouldn’t respond to what God is asking, be prepared for God to show you some wonderful things!We need to have discernment around language and how we represent the scenes in our stories.Matthew’s guiding verse is Psalm 91:11 —  “God will command his angels concerning you to watch over you and guard you in all your ways.” Take heart that God is using his angels to take care of you.Accepting God’s call and nurturing others for God is a long-term effort.Peas and Carrots – All for the KingChildren of God – All for the KingFundraiser by Matthew Terry : "English Corner": A Short Film Bringing People Closer to God“English Corner” Pitch Deck – All for the KingCTAs:Consider some alternative pathways you have been curious about for your career. Note why you feel drawn to them and how they might reflect a new calling from God for your life.Imagine yourself in at least three different regions or careers that are totally different than what you do now. Talk with a friend, family mentor or counselor about the feelings those regions or careers bring up for you. Why do you have those feelings?What’s coming up next:Faithful on the Clock is releasing a brand new devotional, Grace in the Grind. Episode 138 of the podcast highlights the publication of the book.Support the show!Visit the Faithful on the Clock Patreon page to choose a tier plan and become a supporting member. You'll gain access to goodies like early episode access, newsletters, and more based on the plan that's right for you.patreon.com/faithfulontheclockGive a one-off tip or donation on our Captivate support page. You can become a member there with the same great tier options you'll find at Patreon, too.Support Faithful on the Clock Visit our sister site! Faithfulonthclock.com features additional free, free-with-registration, and paid access content to grow your faith, including social media archives, previously published faith-based articles, original blogs, inspirational videos, episode teasers and replaysexclusive faith-based essays and articles, exclusive videosexclusive audioexclusive in-depth devotionals.Share the show! Like these episodes? Share them on social media, in texts or emails, or in person.

Faithful on the Clock is a podcast with the mission of getting your work and faith aligned. We want you to understand Who you're serving and why so you can get more joy and legacy from every minute spent on the clock. Thanks for joining us and taking this step toward a more fulfilling job and relationship with God!Want to join us on social media? We'd love to have you stay up-to-date with the show on all our platforms!ThreadsBlueskyFacebookPinterestInstagramLinkedInYouTubeIn this episode...Jacob, Leah, and Rachel: Laboring for Worth https://faithfulontheclock.com/jacob-leah-and-rachel-laboring-for-worth Do you attach what you produce to your worth? Episode 136 of Faithful on the Clock uses the story of Jacob, Leah, and Rachel to expose if you might be.Timestamps:[00:04] - Intro[00:48] - Summary of Jacob, Leah, and Rachel’s story[01:31] - The fact Jacob, Leah, and Rachel didn’t want or plan the kind of life they lived; how we also can be thrown into undesirable circumstances we have to deal with[02:04] - The sexual dynamics and competition between Leah and Rachel in the context of how important motherhood was[03:56] - How Leah and Rachel attached worth to output, and how we still do — particularly in Western cultures; the importance of attaching worth to our identity in Christ rather than to what we produce or do[07:24] - Leah and Rachel’s scarcity mindset; how scarcity mindset influences teams today to be more competitive and self-protective and the role of leaders in conveying that dignity is a given[08:53] - How culture delivers a sense of where worth comes from[12:25] - God’s use of the overlooked and his elevation of Leah; identifying what we’re still trying to earn[14:14] - What we name our work exposes hidden wounds or desires; the importance of naming from faith rather than pain[16:56] - Prayer[17:40] - Outro/What’s coming up nextKey takeaways:Jacob, Leah, and Rachel didn’t have a relationship they wanted or planned on. Like them, many of us are thrown into work or personal circumstances we didn’t expect and don’t enjoy.Jacob was physically intimate with both wives for complex legal and cultural reasons. But when God saw Leah wasn’t loved, he opened her womb. But both sisters were desperate to prove their worth through childbearing — that is, by producing what the culture considered to be of value.Many women in the world still use childbearing to gain a sense of internal and community worth. But in the corporate space, many woman also have simply transferred their sense of worth to different modes of production. Instead of building your values based on what you can do, build them based on who you are, because what you can do is not static.Workers can have a scarcity mindset around pay, opportunity, etc., just as Leah and Rachel had a scarcity mindset around love. And just as it did for them, a scarcity mindset can lead to conflict. Leaders can step in to stop this undercurrent of fear and communicate that dignity is a given.Cultural norms are not neutral. They can shape our concept that production and worth are connected and dictate what to produce to matter. It’s better to chase what God values instead of what the culture preaches. What the world needs most is often what the world values the least.God doesn’t just choose the top performers. He picks the outcasts and those who are second-class. Asking what we’re still trying to earn can reveal where God needs to work in our lives.The way we name things often exposes hidden wounds or desires. Leah named her first sons based on hurt, but she eventually pivoted to naming things based on faith. We can pivot this way, too.CTAs:Have a conversation with a trusted friend, mentor, or family about how you would feel if you couldn’t produce anymore. Would you still feel confident in your worth? Why or why not?Conduct a survey in your workplace through the appropriate channels to assess whether people feel like dignity is a given regardless of their production.If you have to name something — e.g., a new project — give it a name that honors God and shows a positive perspective, rather than a name that simply characterizes the projectWhat’s coming up next:Episode 137 of Faithful on the Clock welcomes guest Matthew Terry for a discussion about courageously stepping into a new calling.Support the show!Visit the Faithful on the Clock Patreon page to choose a tier plan and become a supporting member. You'll gain access to goodies like early episode access, newsletters, and more based on the plan that's right for you.patreon.com/faithfulontheclockGive a one-off tip or donation on our Captivate support page. You can become a member there with the same great tier options you'll find at Patreon, too.Support Faithful on the Clock Visit our sister site! Faithfulonthclock.com features additional free, free-with-registration, and paid access content to grow your faith, including social media archives, previously published faith-based articles, original blogs, inspirational videos, episode teasers and replaysexclusive faith-based essays and articles, exclusive videosexclusive audioexclusive in-depth devotionals.Share the show! Like these episodes? Share them on social media, in texts or emails, or in person.

Faithful on the Clock is a podcast with the mission of getting your work and faith aligned. We want you to understand Who you're serving and why so you can get more joy and legacy from every minute spent on the clock. Thanks for joining us and taking this step toward a more fulfilling job and relationship with God!Want to join us on social media? We'd love to have you stay up-to-date with the show on all our platforms!ThreadsBlueskyFacebookPinterestInstagramLinkedInYouTubeIn this episode...Mastering Meaningful Storytelling with David Alford and Joseph Stam https://faithfulontheclock.com/mastering-meaningful-storytelling-with-david-alford-and-joseph-stam Storytelling is central to success and connection, but how can you do it with heart, power, and influence? Episode 135 welcomes David Alford and Joseph Stam for insights.Timestamps:[00:04] - Intro[00:44] - Guest introductions[02:05] - Background and start of Cross Purposes Productions[09:36] - Business lessons David and Joseph learned from the process of starting the studio[11:11] - Thoughts on the surge of Christian films, genres, and the direction of the Christian of the film industry[17:04] - What David and Joseph look for in stories they choose to pursue[18:53] - Summary of Searching for the Elephant[22:38] - Advice about taking time, being authentic, and embracing life’s messiness in storytelling in a rushed world[25:19] - Balancing authenticity against formulas and patterns for marketing[31:37] - Being authentic while producing from the subconscious; the subjectivity in art[34:10] - The role of the audience in helping artists discover who they are and what their calling is[36:30] - Being passionate about what you do and being fulfilled[41:23] - David and Joseph’s biggest takeaways[44:21] - Advice on asking for help against a culture of independence and grit[47:39] - What’s ahead for Cross Purposes[49:40] - Prayer[50:30] - Outro/What’s coming up nextKey takeaways:Cross Purposes got its start with submissions to multiple film festivals, which led to the production of initial feature-length films and allowed David and Joseph to start collaborating professionally.Working in something like film means the work is speculative — you don’t know if a project is going to hit or not, but you hope it will.“Christian” film isn’t just inspirational stories. It can include all genres (e.g., mystery, thriller, comedy) and be challenging in many positive ways. This means there’s a huge spectrum of creative possibility in it, reflecting God, and that we should be careful not to allow “Christian” film not to become a caricature. Cross Purposes Productions looks for stories that take people places they’ve never been with people they want to travel with.Searching for the Elephant, Cross Purposes Production’s latest release, is a neo-Western story about addiction. But it is also a messy story of familial estrangement and relationship repair. Searching for the Elephant demonstrates that real life isn’t neat and perfect. In telling our own stories, honoring this imperfection and slowing down to be more authentic is beneficial. People can spot stories that manufactured or formulaic and respond better to stories that are jagged around the edges.Authenticity connects to the way you market your story. It’s okay to appeal to a niche rather than to everyone. If you listen to your audience’s initial feedback well, they can help you figure out what direction to take in your next marketing steps.People can integrate elements into stories subconsciously. Audience feedback can reveal where those integrations are and the influence they have.Feedback in film doesn’t come right away, which means you have to rely more on your experience and instinct. Many other businesses are the exact same way. But a good rule of thumb is to make something you’d want to have yourself.Passion plays a big role in being satisfied in work. Aim for something you love but would also suffer for.It’s never too late to pursue your passion — if you feel like God is calling you, go for it. Be brave and talk to people without allowing bias and superficialities to get in the way, because you never know what you can get if you just ask. It takes community and sharing your vision to make it reality.Cross Purposes Productions has multiple films in the works. You can learn more and stay updated on social media or crosspurposes.productions.Searching for the Elephant - InstagramSearching for the Elephant - FacebookSearching for the Elephant - Amazon PrimeSearching for the Elephant - TubiCross Purposes ProductionsSupport the show!Visit the Faithful on the Clock Patreon page to choose a tier plan and become a supporting member. You'll gain access to goodies like early episode access, newsletters, and more based on the plan that's right for you.patreon.com/faithfulontheclockGive a one-off tip or donation on our Captivate support page. You can become a member there with the same great tier options you'll find at Patreon, too.Support Faithful on the Clock Visit our sister site! Faithfulonthclock.com features additional free, free-with-registration, and paid access content to grow your faith, including social media archives, previously published faith-based articles, original blogs, inspirational videos, episode teasers and replaysexclusive faith-based essays and articles, exclusive videosexclusive audioexclusive in-depth devotionals.Share the show! Like these episodes? Share them on social media, in texts or emails, or in person.

Faithful on the Clock is a podcast with the mission of getting your work and faith aligned. We want you to understand Who you're serving and why so you can get more joy and legacy from every minute spent on the clock. Thanks for joining us and taking this step toward a more fulfilling job and relationship with God!Want to join us on social media? We'd love to have you stay up-to-date with the show on all our platforms!ThreadsBlueskyFacebookPinterestInstagramLinkedInYouTubeIn this episode...Bleeding Need: The Woman with the Hemorrhage https://faithfulontheclock.com/bleeding-need-the-woman-with-the-hemorrhage Ever felt like you couldn’t ask for what you really needed? Episode 134 of Faithful on the Clock uses the story of the woman with the hemorrhage to show how leaders can be compassionate even with quiet asks.Timestamps:[00:04] - Intro[00:47] - Summary of the story of the woman with the hemorrhage (based on Matthew)[01:56] - Expansion of the story based on the gospels of Mark and Luke and Levitical law[04:27] - The significance of Jesus asking who touched Him and the pain of the woman’s full confession[06:40] - Most of us are like the woman with the hemorrhage, afraid to ask for what we really need — how it shows up in the work context[07:49] - Example from personal friendship[09:02] - Why the story of the woman with the hemorrhage holds personal meaning for me in terms of healing and leadership effectiveness[09:55] - Challenge #1: Ask yourself what invisible needs are reaching for you and whether you’re willing to stop the crowd to find them — slowing down doesn’t have to cost you[12:12] - How to show down your culture to create safety and trust[13:15] - Challenge #2: Instead of just stopping the bleeding (the small fish), look for the deeper needs people have and restore the whole person (the big fish)[14:45] - Prayer[15:30] - Outro/What’s coming up nextKey takeaways:Through multiple accounts of the story of the woman with the hemorrhage in the gospels, we can see that the woman didn’t need just physical healing — she needed to be fully seen and reconnected to God and others.Many of us — in our personal lives or work — are like the woman with the hemorrhage. We try to “make do” and take the bare minimum because we are too scared to come forward with direct asks for help. I lived that way for many years but have learned that the boundaries we often imagine around God don’t have to be there.As leaders, we can ask what invisible needs are reaching for us. We can make sure we are willing to stop the crowd to find them, and we don’t have to assume that one person deserves mercy any more than anyone else.Part of bringing this into everyday operations is addressing culture — slow things down, really notice people, and make space for people to feel safe enough to come forward.As leaders, we need to go after the big fish — that is, instead of meeting small needs, our job is to restore the whole person.CTAs:In your next meeting, allow extra time for more relaxed, intimate conversation where people can be more open.Look for signals that people have deeper needs they might not be asking for (e.g., sudden withdrawal or decreased engagement, reacting intensely to minor stressors, deflecting, drop in work quality). Ask open, non-pressuring questions with those you sense might be in distress.What’s coming up next:Episode 135 of Faithful on the Clock welcomes David Alford and Joseph Stam of Cross Purposes Productions. Learn about their latest film and how to make your personal and professional storytelling more effective as you serve God.Support the show!Visit the Faithful on the Clock Patreon page to choose a tier plan and become a supporting member. You'll gain access to goodies like early episode access, newsletters, and more based on the plan that's right for you.patreon.com/faithfulontheclockGive a one-off tip or donation on our Captivate support page. You can become a member there with the same great tier options you'll find at Patreon, too.Support Faithful on the Clock Visit our sister site! Faithfulonthclock.com features additional free, free-with-registration, and paid access content to grow your faith, including social media archives, previously published faith-based articles, original blogs, inspirational videos, episode teasers and replaysexclusive faith-based essays and articles, exclusive videosexclusive audioexclusive in-depth devotionals.Share the show! Like these episodes? Share them on social media, in texts or emails, or in person.

Faithful on the Clock is a podcast with the mission of getting your work and faith aligned. We want you to understand Who you're serving and why so you can get more joy and legacy from every minute spent on the clock. Thanks for joining us and taking this step toward a more fulfilling job and relationship with God!Want to join us on social media? We'd love to have you stay up-to-date with the show on all our platforms!ThreadsBlueskyFacebookPinterestInstagramLinkedInYouTubeIn this episode...David, Saul, and Handling Toxic Leaders https://faithfulontheclock.com/david-saul-and-handling-toxic-leaders Saul was a toxic leader as David rose to the top. Episode 133 of Faithful on the Clock offers takeaways from their relationship to help you be more effective.Timestamps:[00:04] - Intro[00:51] - Summary of the story of David and Saul[06:17] - Anointed but not appointed[07:43] - What’s motivating the toxic leader under the surface[09:25] - Don’t compromise your values to match the dysfunction[10:02] - The importance of allies and advocates[11:47] - Self-protection as wisdom[13:07] - Being developed even where you didn’t plan to be[13:55] - Avoiding “fixing” the leader[14:57] - Seeing the leader’s humanity despite their mistakes[16:56] - Prayer[17:49] - Outro/What’s coming up nextKey takeaways:Saul was God’s anointed king, but He disobeyed God and was not respectful to Him. His relationship with David began as Saul sought music to calm and heal his spirit. But once David was anointed himself and started to gain fame as a warrior, Saul’s insecurity tore him apart. He plotted against and tried to kill David for the rest of his life because he feared David would take his kingdom and exceed his own greatness.You can be anointed but not yet appointed. Trust God to bring you into authority in His perfect timing.Toxic leaders often feel threatened by the gifts of others. Try to understand what’s activating them underneath the surface.Don’t compromise your values to match a toxic leader’s dysfunction. David kept his focus on God, rather than playing tit-for-tat games and seeking to harm Saul for his own benefit.Find wise advocates and allies. They will protect and affirm you through the chaos a toxic leader creates. You don’t have to survive alone.It’s not disloyal to protect yourself. Self-protection is wisdom, not rebellion.God can still develop you in the wilderness. Just as David grew in the cave, you can grow wherever God sends you for safety.Let God handle vengeance and timing. Your job isn’t justice, but rather humility, obedience, and to be ready for what God asks of you.See the humanity the toxic leader has. Grace is emotional maturity.CTAs:Who’s your Jonathan?  Think about who helps you stay grounded when leadership gets hard. Reach out and thank them this week — or intentionally look for someone who can be that kind of support.Reflect with God on your timing. Take 5 minutes today to ask, “God, am I in a cave season like David? Or are You preparing me to step forward?” Write down what you hear or sense.Share your own Saul experience. If this episode hit home, share it with someone who needs encouragement in a tough work relationship — or post your own story and tag #FaithfulOnTheClock.What’s coming up next:Episode 134 of Faithful on the Clock looks at the woman with the hemorrhage — what she teaches about naming our needs and responding wisely to quiet cries for help at work. Support the show!Visit the Faithful on the Clock Patreon page to choose a tier plan and become a supporting member. You'll gain access to goodies like early episode access, newsletters, and more based on the plan that's right for you.patreon.com/faithfulontheclockGive a one-off tip or donation on our Captivate support page. You can become a member there with the same great tier options you'll find at Patreon, too.Support Faithful on the Clock Visit our sister site! Faithfulonthclock.com features additional free, free-with-registration, and paid access content to grow your faith, including social media archives, previously published faith-based articles, original blogs, inspirational videos, episode teasers and replaysexclusive faith-based essays and articles, exclusive videosexclusive audioexclusive in-depth devotionals.Share the show! Like these episodes? Share them on social media, in texts or emails, or in person.

Faithful on the Clock is a podcast with the mission of getting your work and faith aligned. We want you to understand Who you're serving and why so you can get more joy and legacy from every minute spent on the clock. Thanks for joining us and taking this step toward a more fulfilling job and relationship with God!Want to join us on social media? We'd love to have you stay up-to-date with the show on all our platforms!ThreadsBlueskyFacebookPinterestInstagramLinkedInYouTubeIn this episode...How to Have the Hard Conversations You Dread https://faithfulontheclock.com/how-to-have-the-hard-conversations-you-dread Not every discussion is easy to have. Episode 132 of Faithful on the Clock combines psychology and Scripture to get you through even the hardest conversations.Timestamps:[00:04] - Intro[00:37] - Difficult conversations for redemption and clarification[02:00] - Speaking the truth ais kindness; the benefit of reframing hard conversations as opportunities[04:14] - Active listening as a key tool for navigating difficult conversations; giving sufficient space to the conversation and the role of prefrontal cortex load[06:54] - Anchoring bias as a conversation tone setter[07:54] - The illusion of transparency and the need to be explicit about our feelings and intentions.[08:40] - The SCARF model (introduction)[09:36] - The SCARF model (real-world application)[11:11] - Kingdom communication and its intentionality defined[12:48] - Call to action: Pray for your posture.[13:14] - Prayer[13:59] - Outro/What’s coming up nextKey takeaways:Hard conversations can pave a positive path. — Difficult conversations might challenge us, but they can be redemptive and clarifying.Truth is protection and kindness. — Even though you might dread them, honest conversations that deliver truth in love can guard others and everything you’ve built. Reframing transforms hard conversations from moments of confrontation into opportunities to build trust and clarity.Regulate the tone early. — Because of anchoring bias, whatever you lead with sets the emotional tone for everything that follows. Lead with compassion and shared purpose.Be explicit. — The illusion of transparency means people don’t automatically know your intent. Say what you mean clearly.Use active listening with enough space. —  Slow down, ask questions, and allow time for feelings. It helps keep everyone calm and prevents miscommunication. If emotions are running hot, step back. Don’t force a conversation when someone’s prefrontal cortex is offline due to stress.Apply the SCARF model. — People resist what doesn’t feel safe. Addressing the core social needs of status, certainty, autonomy, relatedness, and fairness helps make a tough conversation more digestible. If someone is especially sensitive to one SCARF domain (e.g., fairness), address it early to build trust.Be deeply intentional and reflect God’s character. – True Kingdom communication is assertive in humility, balancing truth and compassion. When you choose clarity, gentleness, and righteousness in how you speak, your words witness for God.CTAs:Think of one conversation you’ve been avoiding. This week, take one small step toward having it. Pray over it, script your opening line, or set the time. Just move forward with intention.Download your free SCARF checklist PDF.What’s coming up next:Ever struggled under toxic leadership? Want to avoid creating that situation for others? Episode 132 of Faithful on the Clock helps you spot the red flags and navigate those dynamics with courage and faith.Support the show!Visit the Faithful on the Clock Patreon page to choose a tier plan and become a supporting member. You'll gain access to goodies like early episode access, newsletters, and more based on the plan that's right for you.patreon.com/faithfulontheclockGive a one-off tip or donation on our Captivate support page. You can become a member there with the same great tier options you'll find at Patreon, too.Support Faithful on the Clock Visit our sister site! Faithfulonthclock.com features additional free, free-with-registration, and paid access content to grow your faith, including social media archives, previously published faith-based articles, original blogs, inspirational videos, episode teasers and replaysexclusive faith-based essays and articles, exclusive videosexclusive audioexclusive in-depth devotionals.Share the show! Like these episodes? Share them on social media, in texts or emails, or in person.

Faithful on the Clock is a podcast with the mission of getting your work and faith aligned. We want you to understand Who you're serving and why so you can get more joy and legacy from every minute spent on the clock. Thanks for joining us and taking this step toward a more fulfilling job and relationship with God!Want to join us on social media? We'd love to have you stay up-to-date with the show on all our platforms!ThreadsBlueskyFacebookPinterestInstagramLinkedInYouTubeIn this episode...Leadership, Meaning, and Making Space for Questions https://faithfulontheclock.com/leadership-meaning-and-making-space-for-questions Ever feel scared to ask a question? Episode 131 of Faithful on the Clock welcomes Catherine Cowell to help you see the freedom and power of reclaiming inquiry.Timestamps:[00:04] - Intro[00:47] - Catherine’s welcome and bio[01:50] - How Catherine came to work in communication and leadership[05:54] - Catherine’s involvement with initial question groups[14:23] - The need for guidelines in groups designed for question facilitation[18:31] - Types of questions people brought to Catherine’s groups[20:23] - Confronting the idea that questions mean weak faith or that you’re just starting your Christian journey[29:28] - The importance of learning to consider your core passions and of asking other people about theirs[35:50] - Catherine’s definition of leadership; the importance of holding space to help people find their gifts[46:44] - Catherine’s two guiding philosophies[49:47] - How to connect with Catherine[50:38] - Outro/What’s coming up nextKey takeaways:In leadership and communication, how you listen is more key than how you get your message across.People can have all kinds of questions they’re afraid to ask. Modeling true vulnerability gives them permission to engage in full, authentic exploration — people are motivated to open up when they know we will sit in the space we create with them.As people begin to explore the questions they have, it can be helpful to establish guidelines around values. It reduces the mismatch of expectations — and subsequent uncomfortable situations — that can sometimes happen as people make inquiries.Questions can happen at any point of life, not just when you are just beginning your Christian journey. Having them doesn’t mean your faith is weak.People often hesitate to ask questions if they feel others will find them lacking for it. There’s a tendency to squash feelings down, believing we ought to be able to bring them under the authority of Scripture. This can leave us stunted, because we never really work through what’s in our hearts.God understands we are going to have questions on our faith journey. There’s nothing we could ask that could put us outside of His love.Asking questions helps us to become more settled as human beings because we stop hiding ourselves and don’t worry about our image so much.People often don’t stop to question what their core passion and calling is. Leaders also often fail to help them discover that God might have gifted them to do. To address this, it’s necessary for us to focus less on what the immediate, perceived needs of the organization are and more on what people could contribute. This allows the organization to see all the resources it truly has available and, as a result, potentially expand and develop beyond its original vision into something even better or greater.Helping people to ask questions helps them discover who they are. That enables them to go out and take action for God. People can take action in Christian environments or roles, but many can express themselves well outside of the traditional church. We don’t have to dismiss our gifts just because they aren’t normally associated with spirituality or faith (e.g., math).Because we are called to live by the Spirit rather than the law, we have a lot of freedom to be creative. Asking questions and really listening can be more than a tool for productivity — it can be an act of love.Loved Called GiftedGet in touch with Catherine: [email protected] CTAs:Consider at least one area of your work, faith, or personal life where you’re confused or need more information. Pinpoint the core question you need to ask.Find a safe, trustworthy person to ask your core question. Set up an informal time to meet, text, or have a call about the question.What’s coming up next:Difficult conversations can be necessary despite how challenging they are. Episode 132 of Faithful on the Clock explores Scripture to form a playbook on how to navigate them well.Support the show!Visit the Faithful on the Clock Patreon page to choose a tier plan and become a supporting member. You'll gain access to goodies like early episode access, newsletters, and more based on the plan that's right for you.patreon.com/faithfulontheclockGive a one-off tip or donation on our Captivate support page. You can become a member there with the same great tier options you'll find at Patreon, too.Support Faithful on the Clock Visit our sister site! Faithfulonthclock.com features additional free, free-with-registration, and paid access content to grow your faith, including social media archives, previously published faith-based articles, original blogs, inspirational videos, episode teasers and replaysexclusive faith-based essays and articles, exclusive videosexclusive audioexclusive in-depth devotionals.Share the show! Like these episodes? Share them on social media, in texts or emails, or in person.

Faithful on the Clock is a podcast with the mission of getting your work and faith aligned. We want you to understand Who you're serving and why so you can get more joy and legacy from every minute spent on the clock. Thanks for joining us and taking this step toward a more fulfilling job and relationship with God!Want to join us on social media? We'd love to have you stay up-to-date with the show on all our platforms!ThreadsBlueskyFacebookPinterestInstagramLinkedInYouTubeIn this episode...Loose Leash Leadership https://faithfulontheclock.com/loose-leash-leadership What does a well-trained dog who’s able to walk with a loose leash teach you about leadership? TONS! Episode 130 uses that picture to explain why obedience is a gift that’s earned.Timestamps:[00:04] - Intro[00:30] - Observations of dogs and handlers in the park[01:33] - What makes dogs stay by their handlers with a loose leash; concepts of negative and positive reinforcement[03:24] - Obedience as a response to feeling safe and taken care of[04:49] - Training people to stay next to you; example of my friend offering consistent kindness[06:25] - Importance of asking if your rewards are appropriate for the situation; goal of building expectation of reliability and consistency in how you show up[07:09] - The connection between training, trust, and being led into new tasks or circumstances[8:07] - The need to see God’s full story to understand how He disciplines; why He is worthy of trust[11:45] - God as a consistent, ever-present trainer; the need to show up every day for those you lead and to be patient within appropriate expectations[15:15] - Summary of key concepts[15:38] - Prayer[16:00] - Outro/What’s coming up nextKey takeaways:Dog handlers can use either negative reinforcement (e.g., hitting with a stick) or positive reinforcement (e.g., offering a treat) as they train their dogs. A loose leash combined with a confident posture from the dog as they stay next to the handler is a sign that the dog is choosing to stay and obey because they trust the handler.The training principle for dogs applies even to people — if you try to force people to follow, they might stay, but only out of fear, not a sense of safety and loyalty.To earn obedience from others at work, you need to discover what reward is appropriate for the situation and build the expectation that you will be reliable and consistent in how you show up.When people learn that they are safe with a good leader, they will follow them even into new situations and tasks, just like dogs who enter different courses and spaces in competitions.We need to look at the entirety of the Bible to understand God’s complete character and the way he consistently and appropriately disciplines and rewards us. His discipline is not random and is always protective.All of us are in training. But as a leader, we have to be an ever-present help and keep showing up to reinforce what people need to learn. We also have to be patient and give people time to adjust to the expectations we have.You Don't Win By TryingCTAs:Identify one material or non-material thing someone could reward you with that could motivate you to take action.Identify one material or non-material thing you could give to a person you’re trying to motivate toward action. If you’re not sure what would motivate them, ask!What’s coming up next:Have questions sometimes? We all do. Episode 131 of Faithful on the Clock welcomes Catherine Cowell for a discussion of why making space for all kinds of inquiry is so critical to good leadership.Support the show!Visit the Faithful on the Clock Patreon page to choose a tier plan and become a supporting member. You'll gain access to goodies like early episode access, newsletters, and more based on the plan that's right for you.patreon.com/faithfulontheclockGive a one-off tip or donation on our Captivate support page. You can become a member there with the same great tier options you'll find at Patreon, too.Support Faithful on the Clock Visit our sister site! Faithfulonthclock.com features additional free, free-with-registration, and paid access content to grow your faith, including social media archives, previously published faith-based articles, original blogs, inspirational videos, episode teasers and replaysexclusive faith-based essays and articles, exclusive videosexclusive audioexclusive in-depth devotionals.Share the show! Like these episodes? Share them on social media, in texts or emails, or in person.

Faithful on the Clock is a podcast with the mission of getting your work and faith aligned. We want you to understand Who you're serving and why so you can get more joy and legacy from every minute spent on the clock. Thanks for joining us and taking this step toward a more fulfilling job and relationship with God!Want to join us on social media? We'd love to have you stay up-to-date with the show on all our platforms!ThreadsBlueskyFacebookPinterestInstagramLinkedInYouTubeIn this episode...Finding Your Tribe for Maximum Influence https://faithfulontheclock.com/finding-your-tribe-for-maximum-influence Episode 129 of Faithful on the Clock explores what finding your tribe means in the Christian context, and how finding your people as you work can help you feel seen, known, and valued.Timestamps:[00:04] - Intro[00:36] - “Finding your tribe” defined[01:49] - The 12 tribes of Israel would have understood the modern idea of finding a tribe in terms of fitting into a certain place.[02:42] - Finding a tribe isn’t just about fit — it’s also about function and calling.[03:45] - When you think about finding your tribe, think about collective mission and how you and your tribe contribute to the bigger picture.[05:22] - Once you figure out your calling, ask yourself who else is called like you are.[05:54] - We’re wired for meaningful connection, not just collaboration. Finding a tribe is about placement, not just validation or getting a sense of safety.[06:33] - What finding your tribe feels like[07:45] - The difference between the Biblical application of finding a tribe and how most organizations function[09:35] - Calls to action[10:19] - Prayer[11:04] - Outro/What’s coming up nextKey takeaways:“Finding your tribe” is a positive phrase related to a deep sense of purpose, community, and belonging.The 12 tribes of Israel demonstrate having a feeling of fitting into a certain place. But they also each had their own focus or calling. Finding your tribe is not just about fit — it’s also about where you function spiritually, emotionally, and communally.Instead of focusing on who is like you, focus on what you and your tribe contribute to the bigger picture and where your gifts are welcome. Then concentrate on finding people who are wired with the same spiritual DNA.Finding a tribe in the Christian context is not about popularity, validation, or safety. It’s about knowing where God has placed you to serve and what unique elements you bring to the table.The feeling of finding your tribe is visceral — you’ll know it when it happens!Most of us don’t work in a tribe because companies are focused and organized around profit-driven goals, not spiritual identity or calling. The question thus is how to refocus and reorganize to honor the need people have to be known and contribute meaningfully.CTAs:Pray about your placement so God will show you where you are meant to function and with whom.Look with intentionality for relationships that are appropriate to invest in that can contribute to your sense of having a tribe.What’s coming up next:Is your leadership tight- or loose–leashed? Episode 130 of Faithful on the Clock shows how to build trust so people naturally follow without pulling back against you.Support the show!Visit the Faithful on the Clock Patreon page to choose a tier plan and become a supporting member. You'll gain access to goodies like early episode access, newsletters, and more based on the plan that's right for you.patreon.com/faithfulontheclockGive a one-off tip or donation on our Captivate support page. You can become a member there with the same great tier options you'll find at Patreon, too.Support Faithful on the Clock Visit our sister site! Faithfulonthclock.com features additional free, free-with-registration, and paid access content to grow your faith, including social media archives, previously published faith-based articles, original blogs, inspirational videos, episode teasers and replaysexclusive faith-based essays and articles, exclusive videosexclusive audioexclusive in-depth devotionals.Share the show! Like these episodes? Share them on social media, in texts or emails, or in person.

Faithful on the Clock is a podcast with the mission of getting your work and faith aligned. We want you to understand Who you're serving and why so you can get more joy and legacy from every minute spent on the clock. Thanks for joining us and taking this step toward a more fulfilling job and relationship with God!Want to join us on social media? We'd love to have you stay up-to-date with the show on all our platforms!ThreadsBlueskyFacebookPinterestInstagramLinkedInYouTubeIn this episode...The Comparison Trap: Working With Confidence in Your Calling https://faithfulontheclock.com/the-comparison-trap-working-with-confidence-in-your-calling Comparison can be a huge stumbling block as you try to serve God. Episode 128 of Faithful on the Clock explains the value of not comparing as you find and step into your calling.Timestamps:[00:04] - Intro[00:41] - How our business environment and culture sets us up for comparison[01:57] - How comparison functions as a measure of safety and security[04:27] - Comparison distracts you from your calling. It makes you put value and attention on what doesn’t matter and doubt your own worth.[05:00] - Joseph, Mary’s husband, as an example of someone who resisted comparison[06:49] - The Bible shows that great things happen when you defy expectations. If you compare all the time, you prepare for what’s not even relevant.[09:03] -  David as an example who, instead of comparing himself to others, only compared the job to do to his previous experience[10:59] - How to get clarity about your calling[14:30] - Safety and security come from God[15:01] - Prayer[15:38] - Outro/What’s coming up nextKey takeaways:Comparison can happen on multiple levels, such as within a culture and then within an industry. We often do it as a way to be reasonable in setting tasks and objectives.On top of having a pragmatic purpose, comparison also helps us gauge our sense of safety. We compare to make sure we haven’t deviated too far from expected norms, which would harm our chances of survival. Going after wealth is a way to answer the question of safety and, if desired, gain the power to alter the norms that are in place.Comparison is detrimental to us as Christians because it distracts us from the calling God has for us. It can cause us to devalue who we are and think we’re not capable of effective service.Joseph, Mary’s husband, serves as an example of someone who went against norms to serve God. Many stories of the Bible show that good things happen when people are willing to stop comparing and respond to God in a way that defies worldly expectations.The story of David and Goliath shows the confidence and success that can come when we focus on the training we have and the job to be done, rather than what the expectations of others are.You can get clarity about your calling (which helps you stop comparing) by just asking God for direction. But it often comes as a “slow burn” of consistent signals that you’re headed in the right direction.Security comes from trusting in God, not from adhering to or controlling the status quo. Focus on where God wants you to be instead of what other people do or have.CTAs:For the next week, try to pay more attention to what feels “warm” to you, as described in the show. It’s OK if nothing does — the goal is just to practice and try to improve awareness of whether the signal is present.What’s coming up next:Having a sense of belonging in a “tribe” is said to contribute heavily to mental health and overall wellbeing. Episode 129 of Faithful on the Clock explores the “tribe” concept as it applies to work.Support the show!Visit the Faithful on the Clock Patreon page to choose a tier plan and become a supporting member. You'll gain access to goodies like early episode access, newsletters, and more based on the plan that's right for you.patreon.com/faithfulontheclockGive a one-off tip or donation on our Captivate support page. You can become a member there with the same great tier options you'll find at Patreon, too.Support Faithful on the Clock Visit our sister site! Faithfulonthclock.com features additional free, free-with-registration, and paid access content to grow your faith, including social media archives, previously published faith-based articles, original blogs, inspirational videos, episode teasers and replaysexclusive faith-based essays and articles, exclusive videosexclusive audioexclusive in-depth devotionals.Share the show! Like these episodes? Share them on social media, in texts or emails, or in person.

Faithful on the Clock is a podcast with the mission of getting your work and faith aligned. We want you to understand Who you're serving and why so you can get more joy and legacy from every minute spent on the clock. Thanks for joining us and taking this step toward a more fulfilling job and relationship with God!Want to join us on social media? We'd love to have you stay up-to-date with the show on all our platforms!ThreadsBlueskyFacebookPinterestInstagramLinkedInYouTubeIn this episode...Procrastination, Precrastination, and Ditching Anxiety https://faithfulontheclock.com/procrastination-precrastination-and-ditching-anxiety Procrastination and precrastination might seem like they’ve got nothing in common, but they’re two sides of the same anxiety coin. Episode 127 helps you refocus on God, conquer them, and find some peace.Timestamps:[00:04] - Intro[00:42] - Why both procrastination and precrastination are problematic[01:54] - How procrastination and precrastination both tie to anxiety; the underlying fears and rationales[03:14] - Tactic #1 — Pause and refocus[05:10] - Tactic #2 — Lean on God’s understanding and control[07:38] - Tactic #3 — Focus on progress and break things down[09:55] - Tactic #4 — Release the shame that comes from pacing poorly[11:12] - Tactic #5 — Ask why you are doing the work and who you are doing it for. [12:50] - Personal story of procrastination/precrastination conflict[15:32] - Prayer[16:19] - Outro/What’s coming up nextKey takeaways:Procrastination gets most of the attention in business because of the way it can slow operations down and negatively influence the speed necessary to compete. But precrastination can be just as damaging and poses an equal threat to mental health and confidence.Procrastination and precrastination are both coping strategies for anxiety. In both cases, the goal is to feel safer and more comfortable — procrastinators feel safer through avoidance, while precrastinators feel safer through action.Tactic #1 — Pause before you react and refocus on God’s truth over your emotion.Tactic #2 — Lean on God’s understanding and control instead of your own.Tactic #3 — Accept that God looks for progress rather than perfection and break down what has to be done into smaller, manageable steps.Tactic #4 — Release the shame that comes from pacing poorly, knowing that in Christ, you don’t have to carry it.Tactic #5 — Ask why you are doing the work and who you are doing it for. Make sure you are giving authority to God and let Him help you.When procrastinators and precrastinators come up against each other, there can be serious conflict. But you can resolve this conflict by reminding yourself that the other person has the same problem you do. In empathy, seek to discover why they are anxious and deliver what they need.CTAs:Reflect on whether your overall tendency is to procrastinate or precrastinate.Over the next week, make a note to yourself when you are tempted to procrastinate or precrastinate. Do patterns emerge where you engage in the behaviors under certain circumstances or environments? Ask yourself why those circumstances or environments are sources of anxiety for you.What’s coming up next:It’s common for professionals to compare themselves to others and feel envious, jealous, or behind. Episode 128 of Faithful on the Clock helps you escape the comparison trap to better focus on your unique calling.Support the show!Visit the Faithful on the Clock Patreon page to choose a tier plan and become a supporting member. You'll gain access to goodies like early episode access, newsletters, and more based on the plan that's right for you.patreon.com/faithfulontheclockGive a one-off tip or donation on our Captivate support page. You can become a member there with the same great tier options you'll find at Patreon, too.Support Faithful on the Clock Visit our sister site! Faithfulonthclock.com features additional free, free-with-registration, and paid access content to grow your faith, including social media archives, previously published faith-based articles, original blogs, inspirational videos, episode teasers and replaysexclusive faith-based essays and articles, exclusive videosexclusive audioexclusive in-depth devotionals.Share the show! Like these episodes? Share them on social media, in texts or emails, or in person.

Faithful on the Clock is a podcast with the mission of getting your work and faith aligned. We want you to understand Who you're serving and why so you can get more joy and legacy from every minute spent on the clock. Thanks for joining us and taking this step toward a more fulfilling job and relationship with God!Want to join us on social media? We'd love to have you stay up-to-date with the show on all our platforms!ThreadsBlueskyFacebookPinterestInstagramLinkedInYouTubeIn this episode...The Difference in David https://faithfulontheclock.com/the-difference-in-david There are leaders, and then there are leaders. King David proved himself to be the best of the best. Episode 126 highlights his key differentiator.Timestamps:[00:04] - Intro[00:46] - Characteristic #1 — repentance[03:43] - Characteristic #2 — humility[06:37] - Characteristic #3 — appropriate application[08:38] - Characteristic #4 — compassion[10:55] - Key differentiation — David’s posture was to seek glory for God, not himself, and to intentionally keep pursuing Him no matter how many times he made mistakes.[14:03] - Prayer[14:51] - Outro/What’s coming up nextKey takeaways:David showed a remarkable ability to repent — he felt regret deeply when he sinned against God, and that genuine emotion led him to seek God’s forgiveness and keep trying to do better.David was humble. He was able to use humility as both brakes and gas, showing restraint and speed with an understanding that God held the ultimate authority.David was able to take previous practice and apply it to new, “similar enough” situations or environments. Leaders often have to do this as their companies and markets change. Leaning on and trusting in the ways God has previously prepared you can help you replace fear with confidence.David showed extreme compassion, asserting that it was the gentleness of God — not his own skill as a warrior — that made him great. His kindness reminds us to do our best to imitate the heart God has as we lead.All of the above points are the result of David’s key differentiator — his posture in front of God. He always led for the glory of God and pursued Him with a true desire for a deep, personal relationship. He never stopped seeking God’s direction no matter how many times he got into the weeds.CTAs:Identify one way in which you can more deeply pursue God as a consistent, practical habit, whether it’s more prayer, seeking counsel from other believers, reading scripture, or studying what He’s made.What’s coming up next:Procrastination and pre-crastination might seem like totally different animals, but they’re often two faces of the same coin — anxiety. Episode 127 of Faithful on the Clock looks at how addressing your fears can help you ditch both bad habits to be more effective and successful.Support the show!Visit the Faithful on the Clock Patreon page to choose a tier plan and become a supporting member. You'll gain access to goodies like early episode access, newsletters, and more based on the plan that's right for you.patreon.com/faithfulontheclockGive a one-off tip or donation on our Captivate support page. You can become a member there with the same great tier options you'll find at Patreon, too.Support Faithful on the Clock Visit our sister site! Faithfulonthclock.com features additional free, free-with-registration, and paid access content to grow your faith, including social media archives, previously published faith-based articles, original blogs, inspirational videos, episode teasers and replaysexclusive faith-based essays and articles, exclusive videosexclusive audioexclusive in-depth devotionals.Share the show! Like these episodes? Share them on social media, in texts or emails, or in person.

Faithful on the Clock is a podcast with the mission of getting your work and faith aligned. We want you to understand Who you're serving and why so you can get more joy and legacy from every minute spent on the clock. Thanks for joining us and taking this step toward a more fulfilling job and relationship with God!Want to join us on social media? We'd love to have you stay up-to-date with the show on all our platforms!ThreadsBlueskyFacebookPinterestInstagramLinkedInYouTubeIn this episode...Stop Achieving, Start Accomplishing https://faithfulontheclock.com/stop-achieving-start-accomplishing What’s the difference between achievement and accomplishment? The world probably has you conditioned toward achievement, but Episode 125 of Faithful on the Clock shows that it’s accomplishment that really counts.Timestamps:[00:05] - Intro[00:35] - Story about my 4th grade teacher, Mr. Lang introducing the achievement concept through showing off spelling bee trophies[01:19] - Influence toward achievement starts early and sets us up to orient ourselves around it in work.[03:14] - Martin Moran differentiates between achievement and accomplishment, noting that accomplishment is based on the external and tangible, while accomplishment is based on the internal and resilience. Olga Khazan notes that people are hiring coaches to achieve more because they don’t think normal is OK. They’re also letting coaches stand in for friends.[04:49] - People are connecting based on achievement, rather than forming more intimate relationships.[05:47] - Why a focus on achievement is dangerous[07:20] - My personal differentiation of achievement and accomplishment — achievement is pragmatic and you-focused, accomplishment is visionary and God-focused.[9:17] - Focusing on accomplishment naturally will lead to achievement.[9:45] - Prayer[10:29] - Outro/What’s coming up nextKey takeaways:Conditioning toward achievement rather than accomplishment starts very early and is common within the school system. It sets us up to work in a way that prioritizes leveling up and getting personal rewards.Achievement is associated with tangible outcomes and external validation. Accomplishment is more about intrinsic reward and personal development.Today’s culture is seeing a massive growth in the coaching industry. This is symptomatic of a malfunctioning looking glass self and the fact people are focused on achievement as a substitute for the connection they’re not getting.Focusing on achievement rather than accomplishment is dangerous because it convinces you that you can grow, save, or protect yourself by your own merit. It tempts you to stop looking to Jesus for help and guidance and makes loving your neighbor and glorifying God more difficult.Your aim should be to accomplish and live a life full of purpose that God will be proud of you for.The more you try to accomplish, the more you naturally will achieve.Are Coaches Trumping Friends? | Wanda ThibodeauxWhat Students Gain When They Pursue Accomplishment Over AchievementMartin Moran on #achievement and #accomplishment | Wanda Thibodeaux posted on the topic | LinkedInCoaching Is the New ‘Asking Your Friends for Help’ - The AtlanticYour Reasons for Accomplishment Determine Your Success | Psychology TodayCTAs:When you are tempted toward a tangible achievement, identify how that reward would serve others and God before you move forward.For every tangible achievement you pursue, pursue one accomplishment.What’s coming up next:King David was a great king, but he was also a major sinner. Episode 126 of Faithful on the Clock discusses the differentiator that made him successful despite his blunders.Support the show!Visit the Faithful on the Clock Patreon page to choose a tier plan and become a supporting member. You'll gain access to goodies like early episode access, newsletters, and more based on the plan that's right for you.patreon.com/faithfulontheclockGive a one-off tip or donation on our Captivate support page. You can become a member there with the same great tier options you'll find at Patreon, too.Support Faithful on the Clock Visit our sister site! Faithfulonthclock.com features additional free, free-with-registration, and paid access content to grow your faith, including social media archives, previously published faith-based articles, original blogs, inspirational videos, episode teasers and replaysexclusive faith-based essays and articles, exclusive videosexclusive audioexclusive in-depth devotionals.Share the show! Like these episodes? Share them on social media, in texts or emails, or in person.

Faithful on the Clock is a podcast with the mission of getting your work and faith aligned. We want you to understand Who you're serving and why so you can get more joy and legacy from every minute spent on the clock. Thanks for joining us and taking this step toward a more fulfilling job and relationship with God!Want to join us on social media? We'd love to have you stay up-to-date with the show on all our platforms!ThreadsBlueskyFacebookPinterestInstagramLinkedInYouTubeIn this episode...Heeding Balaam's Donkey https://faithfulontheclock.com/heeding-balaams-donkey Episode 124 of Faithful on the Clock unpacks the story of Balaam’s donkey, revealing why leaders should pay attention during resistance and why being willing to sacrifice to keep others out of danger matters. Timestamps:[00:04] - Intro[00:33] - The story of Balaam’s donkey, part 1 — King Balak sends for Balaam, who angers God by prematurely going with Balak’s messengers.[02:54] - The story of Balaam’s donkey, part 2 — Balaam’s donkey saves him from death by veering away from God’s angel three times.[05:27] - We often treat others who try to warn us as Balaam treated his donkey, not seeing what they see.[06:45] - If good workers or loved ones veer away from you in a way that’s out of character, that’s a cue that you might be missing something huge.[08:09] - If you are in the position of Balaam’s donkey, pay attention to God instead of worrying about the rod. Endure in love to protect others, as Jesus did.[09:40] - Prayer[10:19] - Outro/What’s coming up nextKey takeaways:In the story of Balaam’s donkey, the donkey tries to turn Balaam away from danger (i.e., the angel of the Lord) three times. Balaam initially beats the donkey, thinking it is being disobedient, but he later sees the angel and understands that the donkey was protecting him.People often ignore others who try to warn them of danger because they are biased, greedy, ambitious, etc. But if we take their resistance as a cue to humble ourselves and look for what we might be missing, that’s wise.If people abuse you for trying to protect them against what they can’t see, instead of taking it personally, remember that they simply cannot see. Offer forgiveness, as Jesus did when we could not see Who He was and put Him on the cross.CTAs:Tell someone who has protected you against your own blindness thank you, even if the protection they offered was a long time ago.Consider the resistance you’re currently meeting. Instead of immediately accepting that others are wrong, ask yourself why they’re coming to the conclusions they are and what the ramifications might be if they’re right.What’s coming up next:What’s the difference between achievement and accomplishment? Episode 125 of Faithful on the Clock shows why pursuing accomplishment strengthens Christian faith.Support the show!Visit the Faithful on the Clock Patreon page to choose a tier plan and become a supporting member. You'll gain access to goodies like early episode access, newsletters, and more based on the plan that's right for you.patreon.com/faithfulontheclockGive a one-off tip or donation on our Captivate support page. You can become a member there with the same great tier options you'll find at Patreon, too.Support Faithful on the Clock Visit our sister site! Faithfulonthclock.com features additional free, free-with-registration, and paid access content to grow your faith, including social media archives, previously published faith-based articles, original blogs, inspirational videos, episode teasers and replaysexclusive faith-based essays and articles, exclusive videosexclusive audioexclusive in-depth devotionals.Share the show! Like these episodes? Share them on social media, in texts or emails, or in person.

Faithful on the Clock is a podcast with the mission of getting your work and faith aligned. We want you to understand Who you're serving and why so you can get more joy and legacy from every minute spent on the clock. Thanks for joining us and taking this step toward a more fulfilling job and relationship with God!Want to join us on social media? We'd love to have you stay up-to-date with the show on all our platforms!ThreadsBlueskyFacebookPinterestInstagramLinkedInYouTubeIn this episode...Not a Polymath? You're Still OK https://faithfulontheclock.com/not-a-polymath-youre-still-ok The corporate world tells you to learn all the things, all the time. But being a specialist is 100 percent OK in the service of God, as Episode 123 of Faithful on the Clock highlights.Timestamps:[00:04] - Intro[00:37] - Origin of the concept of Renaissance (wo)man [01:24] - The modern viewpoint of multi-disciplinary learning[02:13] - Clarification of definitions: (modern) generalist polymath versus (traditional) genius polymath[04:00] - Inquiry — Do you need to be a genius polymath to succeed?[04:29] - The story of building the tabernacle, highlighting the difference between Bezalel and the other workers[06:43] - Emphasis on the value of specialists in the service of God[08:52] - Prayer[09:30] - Outro/What’s coming up nextKey takeaways:Today, we still maintain the idea of a Renaissance man or woman who seeks multidisciplinary learning and skills. But when we talk about being a polymath, we consider the term to mean someone who is a well-rounded generalist, rather than to mean a genius who has the capacity to specialize across many areas.Even though we have shifted the definition of polymath, we still strive toward constant learning hoping to rise to the traditional definition.In the story of building the tabernacle, only Bezalel is described as having all kinds of skills across many areas — that is, as a genius polymath. Other workers have skills, too, but the fact their skills are not listed out suggests they are probably specialists, and that Bezalel was given his abilities to ensure that he could oversee the others to a detailed degree as they completed the tabernacle work.Most of us want to be Bezalel, but the tabernacle could not have been built without the specialists. It’s OK to focus on the area God has gifted you in and to collaborate with others for the larger whole. Doing that can allow you to slow down into the peace God wants for you.Being a Genius Polymath Is Nice, But Specific Expertise Serves God, Too - faithfulontheclock.comCTAs:Look at a variety of job listings. Don’t worry about whether you’re qualified or have trained for specific positions. Instead, simply identify which type of position you’d be willing to go into depth with. Be specific about why!Consider all the components of your current job. What components would you need to eliminate or delegate so the position is more concentrated toward one specialization or spiritual gift?What’s coming up next:Do you heed the warnings others try to give you in your work? Episode 124 of Faithful on the Clock uses the story of Balaam’s donkey to show you why you should.Support the show!Visit the Faithful on the Clock Patreon page to choose a tier plan and become a supporting member. You'll gain access to goodies like early episode access, newsletters, and more based on the plan that's right for you.patreon.com/faithfulontheclockGive a one-off tip or donation on our Captivate support page. You can become a member there with the same great tier options you'll find at Patreon, too.Support Faithful on the Clock Visit our sister site! Faithfulonthclock.com features additional free, free-with-registration, and paid access content to grow your faith, including social media archives, previously published faith-based articles, original blogs, inspirational videos, episode teasers and replaysexclusive faith-based essays and articles, exclusive videosexclusive audioexclusive in-depth devotionals.Share the show! Like these episodes? Share them on social media, in texts or emails, or in person.

Faithful on the Clock is a podcast with the mission of getting your work and faith aligned. We want you to understand Who you're serving and why so you can get more joy and legacy from every minute spent on the clock. Thanks for joining us and taking this step toward a more fulfilling job and relationship with God!Want to join us on social media? We'd love to have you stay up-to-date with the show on all our platforms!ThreadsBlueskyFacebookPinterestInstagramLinkedInYouTubeIn this episode...How to Keep Others From Abusing Your Best Christian Traits https://faithfulontheclock.com/how-to-keep-others-from-abusing-your-best-christian-traits Sometimes, the best traits Christians have make them a target for abuse in the workplace. Episode 122 explains some of the main characteristics people take advantage of and how to protect yourself.Timestamps:[00:04] - Intro[00:40] - Your Christian characteristics set you apart and are not something you ever should feel ashamed about.[01:27] - Abuse of Christian characteristics routinely gets tied to the idea of being a team player in the workplace. But it is never acceptable, including on the job.[02:35] - Generosity can be abused by people who expect Christians to give both time and money.[04:02] - People who expect Christians to be forgiving might pressure you to look the other way and let things go when people hurt you or behave unethically at work. [04:30] - Patience gets abused at work when people string you along with no clear time deadlines. It also can get abused in the sense of forcing you to tolerate annoyances or bad behavior from others.[05:54] - Compassion is one of the most intentionally abused traits. People make you think you are not loving enough if you don’t sacrifice or if you go after your own needs and goals.[06:33] - Abuse of integrity often shows up as exclusion, but people also can ask you to take the fall (or set it up so you do). It can tie to their desire to continue with the bad behavior status quo.[08:23] - People can abuse humility by urging you not to brag or credit, only to then step into the quiet space you’ve left to intentionally promote themselves.[08:57] - Boundaries is your first and best defense against abuse of your Christian traits.[09:21] - Good communication can ensure people don’t make presumptions that can worsen their abuse.[10:38] - Stepping back and distancing yourself from abusers is a viable option, but be mindful that redemption is often a long game. Don’t stick around bad people at the risk of corrupting your own character.[12:34] - Self-care is a valuable way to combat others taking advantage of you because it energizes you spiritually and makes you more confident and consistent. That’s often attractive to others and can open the door to conversations about your faith.[13:53] - Prayer[14:40] - Outro/What’s coming up nextKey takeaways:The traits Christians typically exhibit as they follow the guidance of God sets them apart. But you shouldn’t be ashamed of being different!Abuse of Christian traits in the workplace often ties to the idea of being a team player. But it’s not OK to have others abuse you.The main Christian traits people tend to abuse on the job include generosity, forgiveness, patience, compassion, integrity, and humility.Setting and holding good boundaries, communicating well, keeping your distance from abusers, and engaging in self-care all are excellent defenses when others try to take advantage of your Christian characteristics.CTAs:Consider the Christian traits you demonstrate most often in your workplace. Pinpoint at least one boundary you might draw for each of those traits.What’s coming up next:Professionals see learning and being a polymath positively, but do you REALLY have to know a ton in many areas? Episode 123 confronts the preference for well-rounded genius in the context of spiritual gifts.Support the show!Visit the Faithful on the Clock Patreon page to choose a tier plan and become a supporting member. You'll gain access to goodies like early episode access, newsletters, and more based on the plan that's right for you.patreon.com/faithfulontheclockGive a one-off tip or donation on our Captivate support page. You can become a member there with the same great tier options you'll find at Patreon, too.Support Faithful on the Clock Visit our sister site! Faithfulonthclock.com features additional free, free-with-registration, and paid access content to grow your faith, including social media archives, previously published faith-based articles, original blogs, inspirational videos, episode teasers and replaysexclusive faith-based essays and articles, exclusive videosexclusive audioexclusive in-depth devotionals.Share the show! Like these episodes? Share them on social media, in texts or emails, or in person.

Faithful on the Clock is a podcast with the mission of getting your work and faith aligned. We want you to understand Who you're serving and why so you can get more joy and legacy from every minute spent on the clock. Thanks for joining us and taking this step toward a more fulfilling job and relationship with God!Want to join us on social media? We'd love to have you stay up-to-date with the show on all our platforms!ThreadsBlueskyFacebookPinterestInstagramLinkedInYouTubeIn this episode...Escaping George Bailey Syndrome to Save Your God-Given Dream https://faithfulontheclock.com/escaping-george-bailey-syndrome-to-save-your-god-given-dream Fictional character George Bailey helped everyone succeed and struggled for it. Episode 121 of Faithful on the Clock shows you how to not make the same mistake as you love others.Timestamps:[00:04] - Intro[00:36] - It’s a Wonderful Life relevant plot points, What George Bailey syndrome is[03:13] - Why painting George Bailey as a doormat likely isn’t accurate or appropriate[07:06] - Tip #1 — Look at all the people around you and the resources you have. This will help you see that others might be able to step in in a way that means your sacrifice isn’t even necessary.[10:19] - Tip #2 — Play the track to the end. Considering the long-term, big picture of how everyone might be influenced by your sacrifice can prevent initial emotions you might have from leading you to a poor decision.[12:49] - Tip #3 — Look for patterns. Seeing what happens just before you sacrifice can help you see where your habits lead to problems. When you identify the pattern, communicate about it and be clear if there are relationship imbalances involved.[15:36] - Always being the one to sacrifice can lead to resentment, which opens the door for the Devil to create larger issues. For that reason, see seeking greater reciprocity and balance in your relationships as protective and loving.[16:19] - Prayer[16:49] - Outro/What’s coming up nextKey takeaways:George Bailey syndrome references fictional character George Bailey, who sacrificed to a fault. Addressing your rate of sacrifice and keeping it appropriate is important because eventually you reach a point where you cannot make up your losses, and because it can lead you to mistrust the calling God gave you.Many people who use the term George Bailey syndrome mean that a person is being a doormat. But a closer look at It’s a Wonderful Life shows that George wasn’t a doormat at all. Rather, he suffered from being unable to balance two very good value systems. The reasons people can overly sacrifice to their detriment can be complicated and go much deeper than simple people-pleasing.Tip #1 — Look at the other people and resources around you. This can help you understand that others could bring solutions, talents, etc. to the table and that you might not have to sacrifice in the way you originally thought if you allow others to help. Trusting others to follow through, however, is sometimes difficult.Tip #2 — Play the track to the end — that is, look at the long-term consequences of what is likely to happen if you sacrifice. This can help you ensure that your decision is not based on the emotions you feel in the heat of the moment. It can reveal that the sacrifice you want to make in the immediate present might not be beneficial for the long haul. Brainstorming with other people as you try to play out the track can help you address potential blind spots and find paths where both you and the other person win.Tip #3 — Look for patterns. You might have to sacrifice eventually because you’re setting yourself up for that through specific habits. Back up and look at what happens before you sacrifice, and use your awareness of patterns to seek greater reciprocity in your relationships.Giving all the time with no reciprocation can breed resentment, which can create larger problems. So treat seeking reciprocity and reasonable sacrifice from others as a protective and loving thing to do.CTAs:Identify something you have sacrificed or put off so others could move forward. Make a list of next steps you reasonably could take to achieve that goal. Alternatively, list the values behind the goal and clarify how they conflict or align with the values related to helping others.What’s coming up next:Others at work can take advantage of the virtuous character traits sincere Christians often display. Episode 122 identifies some of the most commonly abused traits and explains how to protect yourself in a loving way.Support the show!Visit the Faithful on the Clock Patreon page to choose a tier plan and become a supporting member. You'll gain access to goodies like early episode access, newsletters, and more based on the plan that's right for you.patreon.com/faithfulontheclockGive a one-off tip or donation on our Captivate support page. You can become a member there with the same great tier options you'll find at Patreon, too.Support Faithful on the Clock Visit our sister site! Faithfulonthclock.com features additional free, free-with-registration, and paid-access content to grow your faith, including social media archives, previously published faith-based articles, original blogs, inspirational videos, episode teasers and replaysexclusive faith-based essays and articles, exclusive videosexclusive audioexclusive in-depth devotionals.Share the show! Like these episodes? Share them on social media, in texts or emails, or in person.

Faithful on the Clock is a podcast with the mission of getting your work and faith aligned. We want you to understand Who you're serving and why so you can get more joy and legacy from every minute spent on the clock. Thanks for joining us and taking this step toward a more fulfilling job and relationship with God!Want to join us on social media? We'd love to have you stay up-to-date with the show on all our platforms!ThreadsBlueskyFacebookPinterestInstagramLinkedInYouTubeIn this episode...Getting a Job Even Without Experience https://faithfulontheclock.com/getting-a-job-even-without-experience You need a job to get experience. But you can’t get experience without a job. Episode 120 of Faithful on the Clock addresses this classic Catch-22 for new workers and those seeking career changes.Timestamps:[00:04] - Intro[00:35] - Comparing yourself to others can make a job search more stressful because when you see all the accomplishments of others, it can make you feel like you’re even more out of your league. Remembering that many people are faking it can help you keep perspective, as can looking at how people started and the journey they walked.[03:29] - Tip #1 — Worry less about the title or type of position you’re applying for and more about whether the work offers the opportunity to build the skills you need. Keep your focus on soft skills that build your character and faith.[06:06] - Tip #2 — Be aggressive about the networking you do through internships, volunteering, certifications etc. Connecting with others is often key to building trust and finding the resources or opportunities you need, and it gives you the chance to serve as you go along.[08:33] - Tip #3 — Get as much feedback as possible. It helps you improve weaknesses but also provides motivating evidence of capability until you get more experience. Apply speculatively where you can to get even more feedback.[11:21] - Tip #4 — Put together a portfolio that can show employers and clients you’re capable of doing the work. You do not need to have sold the items in the portfolio so long as you clearly label them as sample-only. They only have to demonstrate your abilities.[15:09] - Tip #5 — Practice for the interview not by rehearsing canned responses, but by striving to become more comfortable just having a conversation. Being able to stay at ease and think on your feet communicates tons to the hiring manager about who you are and why you might be a good fit.[16:10] - See getting hired as a long game and don’t be shy about asking for support as you get on your feet.[17:13] - Prayer[18:02] - Outro/What’s coming up nextKey takeaways:Much of the anxiety around finding a job when you don’t have much experience comes from comparing yourself to others, especially those who are the most impressive in your field. Looking at where those impressive people started and understanding that many people do not present themselves honestly can keep you grounded and take the pressure off during your job search.Instead of focusing on specific job titles, select jobs that will deliver the skill growth you need to advance. If you cannot find a traditional job for this, consider internships, volunteering, or getting some education or certifications. Because so many hard skills are covered by technology, it can be more worthwhile to develop your soft skills. These can connect to your character and Christian values and give you the opportunity to build your faith.Networking is critical when looking for a job without much experience because people can give you references and introduce you to other people. Don’t be intimidated to reach out — people are human!Feedback is helpful when seeking an initial job because it shows you where your gaps are so you can improve and stay motivated. Consider applying speculatively, but always apply with intentionality.If possible, build a portfolio to show others. It doesn’t have to be work you’ve been paid for. It simply has to demonstrate high-quality skills and results.Practice for your interviews so you don’t panic and freeze. The goal is to be comfortable and at ease. Treating the meeting like any other everyday conversation will help you to show how you think and who you really are, which the hiring manager has to see to determine whether you are a qualified good fit.Trying to find a job without experience can be a long game. Be patient and don’t be afraid to take help to get on your feet — you can repay the kindness later, and the professional world is well-versed in the concept of loans and investment for success.CTAs:Ask at least three people what they believe your strengths and weaknesses are, or request that they introduce you to someone to expand your network.Explore job listings to discover the full range of positions that contain the skills you want to be able to put on your resume.What’s coming up next:Fictional character George Bailey constantly sacrificed his own dreams to help others. Episode 121 of Faithful on the Clock helps you confront this internal conflict, which is common for Christians.Support the show!Visit the Faithful on the Clock Patreon page to choose a tier plan and become a supporting member. You'll gain access to goodies like early episode access, newsletters, and more based on the plan that's right for you.patreon.com/faithfulontheclockGive a one-off tip or donation on our Captivate support page. You can become a member there with the same great tier options you'll find at Patreon, too.Support Faithful on the Clock Visit our sister site! Faithfulonthclock.com features additional free, free-with-registration, and paid access content to grow your faith, including social media archives, previously published faith-based articles, original blogs, inspirational videos, episode teasers and replaysexclusive faith-based essays and articles, exclusive videosexclusive audioexclusive in-depth devotionals.Share the show! Like these episodes? Share them on social media, in texts or emails, or in person.

Faithful on the Clock is a podcast with the mission of getting your work and faith aligned. We want you to understand Who you're serving and why so you can get more joy and legacy from every minute spent on the clock. Thanks for joining us and taking this step toward a more fulfilling job and relationship with God!Want to join us on social media? We'd love to have you stay up-to-date with the show on all our platforms!ThreadsBlueskyFacebookPinterestInstagramLinkedInYouTubeIn this episode...Rewards Beyond Money https://faithfulontheclock.com/rewards-beyond-money If money was gone from your job as a reward, what would you look for as a motivator? Episode 119 of Faithful on the Clock suggests four cornerstones that aren’t the green stuff.Timestamps:[00:04] - Intro[00:55] - Thibodeaux’s background; why money hasn’t been (and continues not to be) a sufficient motivator[03:05] - Reward #1 — a sense of freedom[04:49] - Reward #2 — the ability to influence and change others and the world[06:25] - Reward #3 — opportunity[09:30] - Reward #4 — learning[11:56] - Prayer[12:40] - Outro/What’s coming up nextKey takeaways:My upbringing and current career choices have led me away from money as a work motivator.A sense of freedom is a major reward in work because it connects to your sense of your authentic self, which connects to your relationship with God and the understanding of what’s coming in eternity with Him.The ability to influence and change the lives of others is an important non-monetary work reward because it confirms that you matter — things really would be different if you were not here.Opportunity is the third major non-monetary work reward. It’s significant because it demonstrates that others believe in your potential, not just what you’ve already done.Learning is the final non-monetary work reward. It can make life seem less chaotic and stressful. Instead of seeking learning solely as a deliberate means of self-development, which is directed toward yourself, seek learning with an external focus to understand God, the world, and others. Accepting that God is in control of your learning means you can allow your internal change to happen more organically and don’t need to force it.CTAs:Have an honest discussion with your supervisor about what fills your cup, or ask your team what they get fired up about outside of pay. Come up with at least one way to ensure the work satisfies those needs.What’s coming up next:Without experience, you can’t get opportunities. Without opportunities, you can’t get experience. Episode 120 of Faithful on the Clock confronts this classic work Catch-22.Support the show!Visit the Faithful on the Clock Patreon page to choose a tier plan and become a supporting member. You'll gain access to goodies like early episode access, newsletters, and more based on the plan that's right for you.patreon.com/faithfulontheclockGive a one-off tip or donation on our Captivate support page. You can become a member there with the same great tier options you'll find at Patreon, too.Support Faithful on the Clock Visit our sister site! Faithfulonthclock.com features additional free, free-with-registration, and paid access content to grow your faith, including social media archives, previously published faith-based articles, original blogs, inspirational videos, episode teasers and replaysexclusive faith-based essays and articles, exclusive videosexclusive audioexclusive in-depth devotionals.Share the show! Like these episodes? Share them on social media, in texts or emails, or in person.

Faithful on the Clock is a podcast with the mission of getting your faith and work aligned. We want you to understand Who you're serving and why so you can get more joy and legacy from every minute spent on the clock. Thanks for joining us and taking this step toward a more fulfilling job and relationship with God!Want to join us on social media? We'd love to have you stay up-to-date with the show on all our platforms!TwitterFacebookPinterestInstagramLinkedInYouTubeIn this episode...The Neuroscience of Shaping Your Brain for Success https://faithfulontheclock.com/the-neuroscience-of-shaping-your-brain-for-success The brain has incredible neuroplasticity — it can change over time. Episode 118 of Faithful on the Clock explains why intentionally directing the way your brain shifts contributes to your professional and spiritual effectiveness.Timestamps:[00:04] - Intro[00:42] - The ideas that you can become better and hack the brain are widespread in the professional world. But you can intentionally shape your brain to be better, not just hack it.[01:54] - What neuroplasticity is and how it works[03:33] - God’s brain and neuroplasticity design is not accidental[04:26] - The inherent neutrality of neuroplasticity and why we have to intentionally choose to direct it[06:13] - Most people don’t make the best use of their time, which negatively influences their brain development.[06:58] - Why continuously thinking about God and behaving according to His will is necessary to develop our brain for good professional and spiritual work[08:48] - The importance of repetition in neuroplasticity [09:35] - The need for “mental dirt shovelers” (supportive people) who can help you through the neuroplasticity process[10:58] - Prayer[11:45] - Outro/What’s coming up nextKey takeaways:The concepts of improving yourself and “hacking” the way your brain works are widespread in the professional world. But you can do more than just hack — you can intentionally shape the brain.Neuroplasticity is the ability of the brain to change over time. Neural cells will build stronger, faster connections the more they fire together. It’s similar to the way a path gets built up over time into a faster highway.God’s brain design is intentional. Romans 12:2 can be viewed in the context of neuroplasticity and our responsibility to direct our own brain development to be able to serve God well.Neuroplasticity is going to happen regardless, influenced by our everyday micro-experiences and micro-elements. Unless we want negative development that’s not helpful to us, we have to be intentional about shaping the brain toward good health and function.The intentionality required in neuroplasticity means that we have to be constantly training the brain toward God and what’s good so we don’t get buried by the dark of the world and Satan.Repetition is your best friend when trying to shape your brain. Building new pathways takes time. Seeking out mental dirt shovelers — counselors, friends, etc. who can help you break old pathways and build new ones — is essential.Dr. Austin Perlmutter - Balancing Neurological Pathways to Heal Trauma (Transcript)Faithful on the Clock Episode 117: Shattering Negative Thoughts With Biblical TruthsThe Dangerous Paradox Hidden in Becoming Your Best SelfWanda Thibodeaux on LinkedIn: The Danger of the Become-Your-Best-Self MessageCTAs:Identify one habit or thought you engage in frequently that isn’t helpful. Find at least three verses you can call to mind when you are tempted toward that habit or script.Identify 1 - 3 motivating reasons for maintaining neural-building practices (e.g., reading Scripture). Repeat these to yourself when you encounter challenges.What’s coming up next:We all have bills to pay — paychecks matter. But Faithful on the Clock Episode 118 shares some nonfinancial elements to seek from your job when it comes to finding purpose and meaning.Support the show!Visit the Faithful on the Clock Patreon page to choose a tier plan and become a supporting member. You'll gain access to goodies like early episode access, newsletters, and more based on the plan that's right for you.patreon.com/faithfulontheclockWant to give a one-off tip or donation? Use our Captivate support page. You can become a member there with the same great tier options you'll find at Patreon, too.Support Faithful on the Clock

Faithful on the Clock is a podcast with the mission of getting your work and faith aligned. We want you to understand Who you're serving and why so you can get more joy and legacy from every minute spent on the clock. Thanks for joining us and taking this step toward a more fulfilling job and relationship with God!Want to join us on social media? We'd love to have you stay up-to-date with the show on all our platforms!TwitterFacebookPinterestInstagramLinkedInYouTubeIn this episode...Shattering Negative Thoughts With Biblical Truths https://faithfulontheclock.com/shattering-negative-thoughts-with-biblical-truths We all have negative thoughts, but if you don’t want them to hold back your success, you have to learn how to control them. Episode 117 of Faithful on the Clock offers strategies and Biblical concepts to help.Timestamps:[00:04] - Intro[00:47] - You don’t have to be ashamed of the negative thoughts you have. There’s nothing that could scare God off or stop Him from wanting to heal you.[02:07] - What negative thoughts sound like[03:38] - Understanding where negative thoughts originate — or, at a minimum, acknowledging they always have a source — can help you appropriately assign responsibility for the thoughts you’re having and take appropriate action.[05:47] - One of the main concepts from dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) — that more than one thing can simultaneously be true at the same time — means you can leave room for “also” and get out of the black-and-white thinking that’s common with negative thought patterns.[08:38] - Many negative thoughts revolve around your identity. It’s critical to center yourself around who God knows you to be, rather than to accept what the Devil whispers you are.[12:21] - Because human beings are flawed and imperfect, our thoughts include biases and gaps. We can lean on God’s complete understanding of who we are instead of leaning on our own understanding.[14:11] - Negative thoughts often are anticipatory. But remember that the future is God’s and focus on staying present in the moment.[16:26] - Making changes to your environment can be incredibly helpful in stopping negative thoughts because it makes it easier to have different experiences, which changes what you focus on and prevents you from playing the usual mental scripts that are familiar.[17:38] - Prayer[18:18] - Outro/What’s coming up nextKey takeaways:Negative thoughts often bring shame, but there’s nothing you could think that God doesn’t know or that would scare Him off. You won’t be trapped in your negative thoughts forever.Negative thoughts can take a lot of tones, being both explicit or subtle.Negative thoughts always have a source. If you can figure out where the thoughts originate, you often can take more appropriate responsibility and let go of the shame you might be carrying.Negative thoughts typically tend to involve black and white or absolute thinking. Concepts from DBT therapy might help you learn to accept that multiple elements can be true at the same time. Looking for the alternatives in this way can ensure that your negative thoughts have proper counterweights.Many negative thoughts distort your sense of identity. Reassuring yourself of who God says you are can keep you from accepting that you don’t have high worth.When trying to combat negative thoughts, remember that your perception and understanding is flawed. God’s is perfect. So, seek to gain His understanding, based on Proverbs 3:5.Many negative thoughts are anticipatory. Reminding yourself that the future belongs to God thus is helpful. Try to stay present by conversing with God and using other grounding strategies.Changing up your environment can make it easier to break the mental patterns you have.Living Free From Anxiety | Louie GiglioCTAs:Keep a journal to note the negative thoughts you have through the day. Continue this for at least a week. Then review the journal and look for patterns that might offer clues about changes you can make that would help your mental state.What’s coming up next:Our brains have an incredible capacity to change over time. Episode 118 discusses why it’s critical to direct our neuroplasticity through our use of time to serve God effectively.Support the show!Visit the Faithful on the Clock Patreon page to choose a tier plan and become a supporting member. You'll gain access to goodies like early episode access, newsletters, and more based on the plan that's right for you.patreon.com/faithfulontheclockWant to give a one-off tip or donation? Use our Captivate support page. You can become a member there with the same great tier options you'll find at Patreon, too.Support Faithful on the Clock

Faithful on the Clock is a podcast with the mission of getting your work and faith aligned. We want you to understand Who you're serving and why so you can get more joy and legacy from every minute spent on the clock. Thanks for joining us and taking this step toward a more fulfilling job and relationship with God!Want to join us on social media? We'd love to have you stay up-to-date with the show on all our platforms!TwitterFacebookPinterestInstagramLinkedInYouTubeIn this episode...Finding New Leadership Power in the Old Testament With Sandra Richter https://faithfulontheclock.com/finding-new-leadership-power-with-the-old-testament-with-sandra-richter We don’t always associate the leaders of the Old Testament with excelling in our modern careers or businesses. But in Episode 116 of Faithful on the Clock, Old Testament scholar Sandra Richter makes the connection clear.Timestamps:[00:04] - Intro[00:46] - Sandra Richter’s biography and welcome[01:44] - What sparked Richter’s interest in the Old Testament[04:54] - Rejecting “stuffy” and reclaiming the energy of the Old Testament[12:36] - How Richter’s studies have influenced her view of the world, what we need, and what we’re going through[17:00] - Richter’s biggest Old Testament leadership takeaways[26:24] - How leaders should respond when they want to repent as David did but the cancel-culture world won’t let them[33:53] - Richter’s recounting of the story of Deborah and why she is so significant as a leadership model[43:53] - How to find Richter and her work[45:05] - Prayer/Interview close[46:09] - Outro/What’s coming up nextKey takeaways:Richter did not intend to study or get a degree in the Old Testament. But after encountering pushback within her denomination and taking advantage of academic opportunities, she fell in love with the first half of the Bible and decided to specialize in it.Richter describes the Old Testament as the “unfortunate preface” to the New Testament. But she gets people reenergized for it by comparing it to reading Harry Potter — if you start in book five, you won’t have any sense of the story. She notes that it is illogical to ignore two thirds of God’s self-revelation of character. But she also impresses on others that they are part of Israel’s epic story as heirs of Abraham.Acknowledging the state of the world, Richter recounts a story involving some of her former students and asserts that God’s people have always suffered. We should not be surprised by the wrongness in the world, and we should expect to have difficulties as Christ’s followers.One of the key places to study leadership in the Bible is 1 and 2 Samuel, which holds the story of Saul and David. Saul represents the paradigm of foolish leadership, while David represents Kingdom leadership. David’s three call narratives — Samuel anointing David as king, David serving as a musician and man of worship for Saul, and David and Goliath — all offer lessons in faith-oriented leadership. But the story of Bathsheba is also important, showing how foundational it is to simply repent — not rationalize — when you’ve sinned. The pathway to success is honest repentance. Psalmists communicated two main sources of suffering — physical suffering, such as disease or injury, and slander. In other words, what others have to say has always caused heartache. When a person has to step forward today and admit they failed, it’s going to result in a social feeding frenzy just as it did in Biblical times. But the Old Testament leaders who found success despite their difficulties are the ones who repeatedly chose integrity. David’s years in exile are a good example that we can thrive after trouble.Deborah stands as one of the key matriarchs of Israel, serving as both prophet and judge. In her early years, she can be likened to the modern, busy career woman juggling her job and a baby. In her seasoned years, she’s more like Margaret Thatcher. She exemplifies challenging the status quo, using her exceptional earned credibility to defend God and Israel against outrageous worldly odds. Like other key Biblical leaders, she was able to go into battle with courage because she did it for God’s honor rather than her own. Differentiating whether we’re working for ourselves or God is powerful.People can find Richter on Facebook and Instagram, as well as on Amazon. The Epic of Eden - Seedbed ResourcesSandra L. Richter, Ph.D - HarperChristian ResourcesDeborah Epic of Eden Bible study by Dr. Sandy Richter | S1: Setting the Stage in Real Time & SpaceCTAs:Choose at least one chapter from the Old Testament to read each day for at least a week.Select a well-known Old Testament story. Use Bible footnotes or other references to find where that story can connect to other scriptures, particularly scriptures in the New Testament. Reflect on an Old Testament story you’re not familiar with or don’t know very well.What’s coming up next:We’re often our biggest enemies, with our own negative thoughts cheating us out of our potential success. Episode 117 of Faithful on the Clock highlights some of the most common negative thoughts professionals fight and shows the Biblical counter-psychology for each.Support the show!Visit the Faithful on the Clock Patreon page to choose a tier plan and become a supporting member. You'll gain access to goodies like early episode access, newsletters, and more based on the plan that's right for you.patreon.com/faithfulontheclockWant to give a one-off tip or donation? Use our Captivate support page. You can become a member there with the same great tier options you'll find at Patreon, too.Support Faithful on the Clock

Faithful on the Clock is a podcast with the mission of getting your work and faith aligned. We want you to understand Who you're serving and why so you can get more joy and legacy from every minute spent on the clock. Thanks for joining us and taking this step toward a more fulfilling job and relationship with God!Want to join us on social media? We'd love to have you stay up-to-date with the show on all our platforms!TwitterFacebookPinterestInstagramLinkedInYouTubeIn this episode...Ethics, Innovation, and Controversies: The Line Between Can and Should https://faithfulontheclock.com/ethics-innovation-and-controversies-the-line-between-can-and-should Businesses are innovating today in ways that are more controversial than ever before. Episode 115 of Faithful on the Clock explores some of the ethical issues surrounding ventures and shows how to ensure you break the rules in a God-honoring way.Timestamps:[00:04] - Intro[00:41] - People in business accept the idea that big change usually requires changing what people expect entirely — that is, you have to push limits.[01:16] - Technological advances mean that more concepts are feasible than in the past. People think about innovation differently and don’t automatically dismiss ideas anymore as a result.[02:24] - Despite the positive connotations of being more willing to try challenging things, we’re reaching a point where we’re challenging ethics and having difficulty slowing down before proceeding.[03:23] - SpaceX is an example of a controversial company for the way it dismisses our obligation to steward the planet.[04:24] - Bio is another example of a controversial company. Based on reanimating the human body, it distorts the sacrifice and miracle of the cross.[06:52] - We are asking ourselves whether we can, but we ought to ask whether we should.[07:44] - Humility is the key to innovating ethically. [09:52] - When you have to explain why you are or are not pursuing a venture, that’s an opportunity to share the Good News, even if that’s a process rather than a one-time interaction.[10:55] - Prayer[11:43] - Outro/What’s coming up nextKey takeaways:The idea of pushing limits is foundational to modern business. We are entering an age where, especially due to technology, we can do more and not reject concepts as quickly. But we also are approaching and crossing ethical lines, with more startups pursuing more controversial ideas.SpaceX and Bio are companies that demonstrate ethical dilemmas within innovation. They call into question areas like stewardship and distort some of the most critical elements of Scripture.The big question around innovation isn’t whether you can, but rather whether you should.Humility is a key to ethical innovation. Humility ensures that your ventures keep God at the fore and that you don’t innovate just to build your own fame or reputation.Ethically innovating is a challenge. But it also presents an opportunity to minister and spread the Good News.Company will freeze your dead body until can be 'reanimated' years later — for a hefty pricePeter Thiel confirms he’s signed up to be cryogenically frozen after death but says it’s more of an ‘ideological statement’CTAs:When you have the opportunity to pursue a new innovation, seek counsel from other Christians to stay grounded. Let them help you weigh the Scripture-based pros and cons and come to a conclusion about whether the innovation is something that honors God.Practice saying no more often in small, everyday ways when it is appropriate. This will help you hold your integrity when you must make a bigger decision related to a venture.What’s coming up next:Ever wonder how the Old Testament can help you propel your career or company? Biblical scholar Sandra Richter shows you why the Old Testament matters to modern business and chats about her latest work in Episode 115 of Faithful on the Clock.Support the show!Visit the Faithful on the Clock Patreon page to choose a tier plan and become a supporting member. You'll gain access to goodies like early episode access, newsletters, and more based on the plan that's right for you.patreon.com/faithfulontheclockWant to give a one-off tip or donation? Use our Captivate support page. You can become a member there with the same great tier options you'll find at Patreon, too.Support Faithful on the Clock

Faithful on the Clock is a podcast with the mission of getting your work and faith aligned. We want you to understand Who you're serving and why so you can get more joy and legacy from every minute spent on the clock. Thanks for joining us and taking this step toward a more fulfilling job and relationship with God!Want to join us on social media? We'd love to have you stay up-to-date with the show on all our platforms!TwitterFacebookPinterestInstagramLinkedInYouTubeIn this episode...Godly Marketing in an UnGodly World https://faithfulontheclock.com/godly-marketing-in-an-ungodly-world Intro teaser paragraph:Marketing is essential for personal or company brands. Faithful on the Clock Episode 114 guides you through doing it in a Godly way.Timestamps:[00:05] - Intro[00:44] - The need for good marketing[01:16] - Don’t chase trends, as those are often world-focused rather than God-focused. You’ll stand out by NOT getting on the bandwagon.[03:05] - Be authentic. This means CLAIMING the identity you already have, not crafting one.[05:12] - Cling to truth. Be mindful of what’s actually in your claims, images, etc. Spin has consequences. [08:15] - Serve others and God, not yourself. Don’t use tactics that simply appeal to ego, greed, etc.[11:03] - Summary[11:27] - Prayer[12:18] - Outro/What’s coming up nextKey takeaways:Marketing is essential for both personal and company brands.Tip #1 — Don’t chase trends. Trends often reflect what is popular in the world, not what is right according to God.Tip #2 — Lean into your authenticity. Instead of copying others or trying to create an identity according to trends, claim the identity you already have and don’t muddy your calling by expanding into too many areas.Tip #3 — Stay truthful. Consider whether you are exaggerating, misleading, spinning, overpromising, omitting, etc.Tip #4 — Ask yourself who you are truly serving; keep others and God as the priority.CTAs:Review your current marketing practices. Identify which of them adhere to the character of God and which ones do not.What’s coming up next:Entrepreneurs and innovators are pushing limits — and ethics in the process. Episode 115 of Faithful on the Clock looks at some of the most controversial ventures and practices in the Christian context.Support the show!Visit the Faithful on the Clock Patreon page to choose a tier plan and become a supporting member. You'll gain access to goodies like early episode access, newsletters, and more based on the plan that's right for you.patreon.com/faithfulontheclockWant to give a one-off tip or donation? Use our Captivate support page. You can become a member there with the same great tier options you'll find at Patreon, too.Support Faithful on the Clock

Faithful on the Clock is a podcast with the mission of getting your work and faith aligned. We want you to understand Who you're serving and why so you can get more joy and legacy from every minute spent on the clock. Thanks for joining us and taking this step toward a more fulfilling job and relationship with God!Want to join us on social media? We'd love to have you stay up-to-date with the show on all our platforms!TwitterFacebookPinterestInstagramLinkedInYouTubeIn this episode...10 Christian Books and Podcasts to Grow Your Leadership https://faithfulontheclock.com/10-christian-books-and-podcasts-to-grow-your-leadership Looking to grow your leadership? These books and podcasts offer some of the best insights for Christian professionals. Timestamps:[00:04] - Intro[00:36] - Book Recommendation #1 — God Is My CEO, Larry Julian.[01:41] - Book Recommendation #2 — The Wounded Healer, Henri Nouwen. [03:55] - Book Recommendation #3 — Holy Habits, Noah Herrin.[04:41] - Book Recommendation #4 — Boundaries for Leaders, Henry Cloud.[06:04] - Book Recommendation #5 — Great Commission Companies, Steve Rundle and Tom Steffen.[07:28] - Podcast Recommendation #1 — The Craig Groeschel Leadership Podcast[08:57] - Podcast Recommendation #2 — Don’t Mom Alone, Heather MacFayden. [10:10] - Podcast Recommendation #3 — The Bible for Normal People, Pete Enns and Jared Byas. [10:56] - Podcast Recommendation #4 — Christianity in Business, Archie Dunham.[11:51] - Podcast Recommendation #5 — Faith Driven Entrepreneur, Faith Driven Movements. [12:33] - Call to support the authors and podcasters[13:09] Prayer[13:42] - Outro/What’s coming up nextKey takeaways:Book Recommendation #1 — God Is My CEO, Larry Julian. Connects Biblical principles to some of the most common but difficult issues facing Christian leaders.Book Recommendation #2 — The Wounded Healer, Henri Nouwen. Explains the role of Christian ministers as taking their suffering and using it as a jumping off point for helping others; conveys the idea that people need at least one person to persist and succeed through challenges.Book Recommendation #3 — Holy Habits, Noah Herrin. Identifies 10 practical, small habits that can make a big difference in being able to live in a Godly way.Book Recommendation #4 — Boundaries for Leaders, Henry Cloud. Explains why boundaries help organizational operations and how to establish them. Book Recommendation #5 — Great Commission Companies, Steve Rundle and Tom Steffen. Examines case examples of companies serving in less-developed regions to show how business can both serve God and make a positive economic influence.Podcast Recommendation #1 — The Craig Groeschel Leadership Podcast, Craig Groeshel. Shares real-world, practical anecdotes and analogies about leadership. Leans on Groeshel’s marketing background and extensive time as a pastoral leader of a national church network.Podcast Recommendation #2 — Don’t Mom Alone, Heather MacFayden. Directed at moms, but applicable to everyone. Features highly relatable interviews that demonstrate Christian growth, leadership, and support. Podcast Recommendation #3 — The Bible for Normal People, Pete Enns and Jared Byas. Helps decode scriptures to be more understandable for the modern world, which can help when applying the Word to your business, career, and everyday decision-making.Podcast Recommendation #4 — Christianity in Business, Archie Dunham. Interviews with real-life leaders who share what they’ve learned about God and running a business.Podcast Recommendation #5 — Faith Driven Entrepreneur, Faith Driven Movements. Similar to Christianity in Business, but focused on innovators and founders. Helps clarify how entrepreneurship can be an extension of service in the mission of God. Podcast Inventory - Faith Driven Entrepreneur — Faith Driven EntrepreneurChristianity in Business Podcast | Houston Christian UniversityPODCAST - The Bible For Normal PeopleDon’t Mom Alone Podcast | Heather MacFadyenCraig Groeschel Leadership Podcast | Life.ChurchGreat Commission Companies – Business as MissionBoundaries for LeadersHoly HabitsThe Wounded HealerGod Is My CEOCTAs:Pick one book and one podcast from today’s show and get started taking in the messages! Take notes if desired as you go through the text or episodes. If you find the book or episode helpful, share it with someone you know.What’s coming up next:The world tends not to operate on Godly principles. So, how do you market to it as a Christian business leader or professional in a way that will resonate? Episode 113 of Faithful on the Clock has tips.Support the show!Visit the Faithful on the Clock Patreon page to choose a tier plan and become a supporting member. You'll gain access to goodies like early episode access, newsletters, and more based on the plan that's right for you.patreon.com/faithfulontheclockWant to give a one-off tip or donation? Use our Captivate support page. You can become a member there with the same great tier options you'll find at Patreon, too.Support Faithful on the Clock

Faithful on the Clock is a podcast with the mission of getting your work and faith aligned. We want you to understand Who you're serving and why so you can get more joy and legacy from every minute spent on the clock. Thanks for joining us and taking this step toward a more fulfilling job and relationship with God!Want to join us on social media? We'd love to have you stay up-to-date with the show on all our platforms!ThreadsTwitterFacebookPinterestInstagramLinkedInYouTubeIn this episode...7 Massive Misconceptions About Bosses (and God) https://faithfulontheclock.com/7-massive-misconceptions-about-bosses-and-god Bosses all stink, right? Episode 112 of Faithful on the Clock debunks this idea by confronting the biggest misconceptions people have about managers — including THE manager, God.Timestamps:[00:04] - Intro[00:40] - God is the boss of everything, including businesses[02:09] - God Misunderstanding #1: God is angry[03:07] - God Misunderstanding #2: God doesn’t care[05:57] - World Boss Misunderstanding #1: Bosses don’t have imposter syndrome/are always confident[07:16] - World Boss Misunderstanding #2: Bosses aren’t concerned with their workers[09:20] - World Boss Misunderstanding #3: If people leave, it’s because the boss is bad[10:27] - World Boss Misunderstanding #4: Good bosses don’t manipulate you[12:53] - World Boss Misunderstanding #5: Bosses are always experts[15:08] - Prayer[15:49] - Outro/What’s coming up nextKey takeaways:God is the ultimate sovereign boss, overseeing everything in the world, including the businesses and successes we have.God is often seen as angry. But He is a God of joy and sent Jesus to ensure He could always love on you and have peace.People often think God doesn’t care. But the stories of both Job and Jesus show that it’s the Devil who tests us. God allows it so that the Devil can’t gain ground. But like a war general who loses soldiers or sees them in pain, that doesn’t mean He enjoys the battle or the hurt we have.Bosses often are far less confident than people think they are. They feel just as unprepared for their jobs and have to figure things out along the way as much as the rest of us do.Good bosses care deeply about their teams. But it can be hard to deliver due to lack of resources, roadblocks from others, and the general way work is structured.People don’t leave jobs just because bosses are bad. They leave bosses for a myriad of other reasons, such as financial opportunity or curiosity.Good bosses manipulate the people on their team, but they do it in the right way at the right time for the right reason. Their intent with this positive manipulation is to guide you to your best, not to gain for themselves.Good bosses often are not experts. But they are exceptional at directing and encouraging the people who are. They can see components and grasp where those parts need to be and move in the larger strategy.Percent Who Feel Employer Cares About Their Wellbeing PlummetsHorrible Bosses: Are American Workers Quitting Their Jobs Or Quitting Their Managers?Survey: 68% of CEOs Admit They Weren’t Fully Prepared for the JobCTAs:Invite your boss for an informal lunch or walk to unpack some of the perceptions you’ve had about them. Use the conversation to clear the air and welcome more open communications for the future. If they share their perceptions of you, be open-minded and honest in your responses.What’s coming up next:Faithful on the Clock isn’t the only great resource out there for Christian professionals. Episode 113 shares books and other podcasts that can inspire you as you get your faith and work aligned.Support the show!Visit the Faithful on the Clock Patreon page to choose a tier plan and become a supporting member. You'll gain access to goodies like early episode access, newsletters, and more based on the plan that's right for you.patreon.com/faithfulontheclockWant to give a one-off tip or donation? Use our Captivate support page. You can become a member there with the same great tier options you'll find at Patreon, too.Support Faithful on the Clock

Faithful on the Clock is a podcast with the mission of getting your work and faith aligned. We want you to understand Who you're serving and why so you can get more joy and legacy from every minute spent on the clock. Thanks for joining us and taking this step toward a more fulfilling job and relationship with God!Want to join us on social media? We'd love to have you stay up-to-date with the show on all our platforms!TwitterFacebookPinterestInstagramLinkedInYouTubeIn this episode...David and Goliath: Not an Underdog Story https://faithfulontheclock.com/david-and-goliath-not-an-underdog-story Timestamps:[00:04] - Intro[00:31] - David and Goliath summary[02:41] - How most pastors preach David and Goliath[03:25] - We are not David, as we like to portray ourselves, but rather Israel, which needed a savior; the David and Goliath story parallels Jesus’ selfless defense of all of us[04:52] - Takeaway #1: Don’t think you’re the savior when you’re the one who needs rescuing.[05:43] - Takeaway #2: Remember God is merciful and don’t get so caught up in shame that you become ineffective for Him.[07:41] - Prayer[08:18] - Outro/What’s coming up nextKey takeaways:David and Goliath is a story in which a teenage boy uses only a slingshot to defeat a much more experienced, larger warrior. Most pastors preach it as an underdog story, emphasizing how God gave David the victory in battle despite the incredible odds. Pastor Peter Wotkowski proposes that there is a parallel between the championship of David for Israel and the championship of Jesus for all of us. In other words, David and Goliath is a story about intercession. Just as David made Goliath his problem and fought on behalf of Israel, Jesus made our sin his problem and defeated it for us.Wotkowski’s interpretation of David and Goliath encourages you first to avoid seeing yourself as a savior when, in fact, you’re the one who needs saving.Wotkowski’s interpretation also allows you to remember God’s mercy. Even though you cannot fight sin alone and win, you don’t need to be overwhelmed by shame. You still are loved and can do good things to glorify God.Why You Got David and Goliath Wrong – Witkowski BlogCTAs:Reread the story of David and Goliath. What additional parallels can you see between this story and the story of Jesus?What’s coming up next:Think you know what’s on your boss’ mind? Episode 112 covers some of the biggest boss misconceptions and how they influence workplace interactions.Support the show!Visit the Faithful on the Clock Patreon page to choose a tier plan and become a supporting member. You'll gain access to goodies like early episode access, newsletters, and more based on the plan that's right for you.patreon.com/faithfulontheclockWant to give a one-off tip or donation? Use our Captivate support page. You can become a member there with the same great tier options you'll find at Patreon, too.Support Faithful on the Clock

Faithful on the Clock is a podcast with the mission of getting your work and faith aligned. We want you to understand Who you're serving and why so you can get more joy and legacy from every minute spent on the clock. Thanks for joining us and taking this step toward a more fulfilling job and relationship with God!Want to join us on social media? We'd love to have you stay up-to-date with the show on all our platforms!TwitterFacebookPinterestInstagramLinkedInYouTubeIn this episode...The 5 Ws of Servant Leadership https://faithfulontheclock.com/the-5-ws-of-servant-leadership Servant leadership has become increasingly popular, but it’s still rare and misunderstood. Episode 110 of Faithful on the Clock gives you the 5 Ws of servant leadership to help you get it right.Timestamps:[00:04] - Intro[00:33] - What servant leadership is (and isn’t)[02:18] - Who and what — where your stewardship gets directed[02:51] - When and where — identifying your timeline and locations for action[03:51] - How — the nitty-gritty logistics of what your stewardship[05:10] - Why — the reason someone or something deserves your stewardship and the anticipated outcomes of your protection and service; clarifies your values, which enables integrity and consistency[06:24] - Learning and growing might demand you change your stewardship over time.[08:00] - Prayer[08:30] - Outro/What’s coming up nextKey takeaways:Servant leadership isn’t about giving others autonomy or whatever they want and, as a result, losing control. It’s about maintaining control when it’s necessary to ensure people get what they need. Servant leadership and stewardship are connected — if you’re not stewarding something or someone, you’re not serving.The first two Ws of servant leadership are who and what. They identify where you’re going to direct your stewardship.The third and fourth Ws are when and where. They allow you to pinpoint the timeline and location for your stewardship. Both take significant discernment due to market variables.The fifth “bonus” W is how. It tackles the logistics of what you need to do, including design, innovation, and task assignment. Whenever possible, choose the how that does the least damage, so as to love as Jesus loved.The last W is why. In servant leadership, why is external, not internal. It identifies the reason whoever or whatever you’re stewarding deserves your stewardship, and it clarifies the anticipated or desired result of your protection and service. All of this lays out your values, which helps you maintain integrity.As you learn and grow with God’s help, you might find that your why and corresponding values shift. That is normal, and it is acceptable to move on when God says you are ready to do so. CTAs:Identify one person, group, or asset you feel it is important to steward at this point in your life. Pinpoint each of the Ws involved for the person, group, or asset you’ve identified in the first step.What’s coming up next:Traditionally, David and Goliath is the story of an underdog who wins. But Episode 111 of Faithful on the Clock helps you yourself not as David, but as Israel, connecting it to the sacrifice of Jesus.Support the show!Visit the Faithful on the Clock Patreon page to choose a tier plan and become a supporting member. You'll gain access to goodies like early episode access, newsletters, and more based on the plan that's right for you.patreon.com/faithfulontheclockWant to give a one-off tip or donation? Use our Captivate support page. You can become a member there with the same great tier options you'll find at Patreon, too.Support Faithful on the Clock

Faithful on the Clock is a podcast with the mission of getting your work and faith aligned. We want you to understand Who you're serving and why so you can get more joy and legacy from every minute spent on the clock. Thanks for joining us and taking this step toward a more fulfilling job and relationship with God!Want to join us on social media? We'd love to have you stay up-to-date with the show on all our platforms!TwitterFacebookPinterestInstagramLinkedInYouTubeIn this episode...The Hidden Lesson of the Good Samaritan https://faithfulontheclock.com/the-hidden-lesson-of-the-good-samaritan The story of the Good Samaritan teaches us that love can come from those we don’t expect it to come from. But as Episode 109 of Faithful on the Clock shows, it’s also about continuing care for as long as healing takes.Timestamps:[00:04] - Intro[00:31] - Summary of the Good Samaritan story[02:25] - Most preaching on the Good Samaritan focuses on expectations around who is going to help/who is our neighbor. That’s still highly relevant today given how many conflicts there are.[03:19] - The last part of the Good Samaritan shows that the Good Samaritan was willing to let being a help to someone else derail his plans. This detail is important for professionals, who place high importance on control and planning.[04:29] - The last thing the Good Samaritan does is come back to the inn to check on the man he helped and take care of his bill. Like him, we need to return to check on others who are in need.[05:48] - In the work context, consistently checking on people over and over builds trust, which is essential to relationships that support success.[06:36] - In The Wounded Healer, Henri Nouwen makes a point about being willing to wait for people as they heal to give them hope. We need to be willing to wait and keep coming back for those who need us.[07:59] - Assaults can be many types of things. There’s carryover from work to personal life, and boundaries around helping and the time healing takes are messy.[08:53] - The idea of checking in on people is not new in business — we have heard it many times in the context of following up on prospects. But following up out of love is selfless.[10:00] - Helping others can be disruptive, but it can earn a priceless loyalty. Showing up over and over to check in on what people need is the core of servant leadership. To ensure you do not suffer burnout, however, you must teach others to follow up in love, too.[11:21] - Prayer[12:00] - Outro/What’s coming up nextKey takeaways:Most people teach the story of the Good Samaritan as a lesson in loving your enemies. It is that, but the end of the story also teaches a lesson in what good care looks like.The Good Samaritan pivoted his plans to help the man on the side of the road. Similarly, you should be willing to pivot your plans to care for others. The concepts of planning and control that are common in the professional world can make this challenging.Just as the Good Samaritan stayed with the injured man and came back to the inn later to make sure He was okay, our care of others needs to be a long game. Don’t just swoop in once, leave, and then assume everything is fine.Extended, consistent care builds trust that fosters strong relationships, which then facilitate success. Henri Nouwen hits on the responsibility we have to keep waiting for others in his classic book, The Wounded Healer.Because work life and personal life affect one another, don’t assume that your responsibility is in only one of those areas. There are no nice, neat boundaries to good care.The concept of follow-up is familiar in the business world. But in the office, it’s usually self-centered for your own gain. When you truly follow-up in love, it’s self-centered and might gain you nothing financially at allGood servant leadership is essentially the ability to show good extended care. But because no one can help everyone, good servant leaders must tap others they trust to go out and serve in the same way they do.What is the meaning of the Parable of the Good Samaritan? | GotQuestions.orgCTAs:Carefully observe those in your workplace. Take whatever opportunities you can to see what they need, and follow up through text, email, or just stopping by their desk at an appropriate time. If you don’t get an initial response, persist within respectful boundaries.What’s coming up next:What’s really involved in servant leadership? Episode 110 of Faithful on the Clock breaks down the five Ws.Support the show!Visit the Faithful on the Clock Patreon page to choose a tier plan and become a supporting member. You'll gain access to goodies like early episode access, newsletters, and more based on the plan that's right for you.patreon.com/faithfulontheclockWant to give a one-off tip or donation? Use our Captivate support page. You can become a member there with the same great tier options you'll find at Patreon, too.Support Faithful on the Clock

Faithful on the Clock is a podcast with the mission of getting your work and faith aligned. We want you to understand Who you're serving and why so you can get more joy and legacy from every minute spent on the clock. Thanks for joining us and taking this step toward a more fulfilling job and relationship with God!Want to join us on social media? We'd love to have you stay up-to-date with the show on all our platforms!TwitterFacebookPinterestInstagramLinkedInYouTubeIn this episode...Debunking the Prosperity Gospel https://faithfulontheclock.com/debunking-the-prosperity-gospel All that “name it and claim it” stuff? Run away from it. Fast. Episode 108 of Faithful on the Clock explains why the prosperity gospel is a dangerous movement.Timestamps:[00:04] - Intro[00:39] - The prosperity gospel definition and origins[02:48] - Problem #1: The give to get concept perverts the purpose of Jesus.[03:44] - Problem #2: Verses used to support the prosperity gospel are misinterpreted to mean that God can’t say no because He wants good things for us.[05:19] - Problem #3: The prosperity gospel neglects the context in which Jesus was speaking to people about the new relationship with God that was coming through Him.[06:50] - Problem #4: The prosperity gospel allows people to focus on living their best life in the world, turning God into a vending machine. People can say that the poor are poor because they don’t have enough faith, which causes division in the church and lets the rich say they are favored by God.[08:13] - How the prosperity gospel connects to the manifestation by mindset ideology[08:56] - How the prosperity gospel connects to toxic positivity[10:09] - If a person is prone to one mindset (prosperity gospel, manifestation by mindset, or toxic positivity, they likely are prone to the others. [10:57] - How to prevent yourself from slipping into the prosperity gospel and related ideologies[12:49] - Prayer[13:28] - Outro/What’s coming up nextKey takeaways:With roots in Pentecostalism, the prosperity gospel originated in the Healing Revival movement following WWII. Oral Roberts was the individual who first connected the concepts of blessing and investment in the church. His influence appears today in leaders like Joel Osteen and Joyce Meyer.A main belief of the prosperity gospel is giving to get — blessing is dependent on how much you give to the church. This warps the purpose of Jesus, who eliminated the need for any kind of material payment for God’s blessing or attention.Prosperity gospel follows often distort scripture. The end result of the poor interpretation is that people believe God can’t say no to what they ask because He desires good things for them. It causes people to forget the context of Jesus’ teaching, which was intended to show that the people could have a different type of relationship with God going forward.The prosperity gospel is problematic in that it paints God as a path to all the material pleasures of the world. It causes people to focus more on enjoying life on Earth than on serving, and it can divide the church by painting the poor as causing their own plight through insufficient faith.The prosperity gospel ties closely to both the manifestation by mindset and toxic positivity. If you’re prone to one, you’re at risk for the others.You can keep yourself grounded against the prosperity gospel by asking God what He wants, reflecting whether you love the gift or the Giver, and reminding yourself that money is always the means rather than the goal.The Prosperity GospelWhat Is the Prosperity Gospel?1947-1958 Healing Revival - BEAUTIFUL FEETBEAUTIFUL FEETCTAs:Read or watch some material by prosperity gospel leaders. Note their key points and search for scriptural support or contradictions. If church leaders ask you for money, assess whether they directly or indirectly appeal to your own desire for blessing. Do they stay focused on what you can help achieve and how it aligns with the character and instruction of God? Or do they talk more about the return you’ll personally get?What’s coming up next:The story of the Good Samaritan reveals that we ought to love and help everyone. But Episode 109 of Faithful on the Clock shows it also teaches an important lesson about how risk increases for people the more time passes without help.Support the show!Visit the Faithful on the Clock Patreon page to choose a tier plan and become a supporting member. You'll gain access to goodies like early episode access, newsletters, and more based on the plan that's right for you.patreon.com/faithfulontheclockWant to give a one-off tip or donation? Use our Captivate support page. You can become a member there with the same great tier options you'll find at Patreon, too.Support Faithful on the Clock

Faithful on the Clock is a podcast with the mission of getting your work and faith aligned. We want you to understand Who you're serving and why so you can get more joy and legacy from every minute spent on the clock. Thanks for joining us and taking this step toward a more fulfilling job and relationship with God!Want to join us on social media? We'd love to have you stay up-to-date with the show on all our platforms!TwitterFacebookPinterestInstagramLinkedInYouTubeIn this episode...How to Avoid Cat-Poster Christianity https://faithfulontheclock.com/how-to-avoid-cat-poster-christianity Relaxing, inspiring images coupled with Scripture — cat-poster Christianity — is everywhere. Episode 107 of Faithful on the Clock explains why it’s harmful and how to get past it on your journey to success.Timestamps:[00:04] - Intro[00:27] - Cat-poster Christianity definition[01:38] - Cat-poster Christianity Problem #1 — removal of context[02:33] - Cat-poster Christianity Problem #2 — facilitation of toxic positivity[05:51] - The big question — how to stay grounded and avoid toxic positivity when cat-poster Christianity is everywhere[06:14] - Tip #1 — Go get context for the scripture.[07:07] - Tip #2 — Look at as many translations as you can.[08:14] - Tip #3 — Ask yourself why you are attracted to the verse’s promise or concept (i.e., “What need does this verse trigger for me?”[09:58] - Tip #4 — Ask yourself how many times you’ve heard the verse in many different contexts. Look for verses that are more specific to your situation.[13:17] - Summary[14:31] - Prayer[15:09] - Outro/What’s coming up nextKey takeaways:Cat-poster Christianity combines inspiring or beautiful images with Scripture as a motivational tool.The first problem with cat-poster Christianity is that it makes it difficult to understand the context of the selected Scripture. People do not see the big picture that is necessary to make good choices and behave well consistently.The second problem with cat-poster Christianity is that it plays into the toxic positivity mindset where people ignore and brush negative points of life under the rug. It ignores that Jesus didn’t just preach what was warm and fuzzy — He preached repentance and was clear that being His follower would bring suffering.Tip #1 — Go after context. Read the full chapter around a verse. Seek commentaries, read blogs, etc. to see how others interpret the verse you’ve read.Tip #2 — Look at many translations that can help you understand the scripture in a more holistic way. This includes looking at original languages and the culture of the time/region.Tip #3 — Ask yourself why you are attracted to the cat-poster verse you see. Try to identify the unmet need in you that it speaks to.Tip #4 — Ask yourself how many times you’ve heard the verse in completely different situations. Then find other verses that are more direct to the situation you currently are in. This doesn’t just confirm God’s character. It gives you proof of why the popular cat-poster verse is true. It also gives you clear advice on how to move forward logistically and in your heart.We don’t pick out only the small, feel-good parts of other books and say that’s good enough, so we shouldn’t do it with the Bible, either.CTAs:When you see cat-poster Christianity all by itself online, ask the person who posted it for context or their own insights.If you would like to post a popular Scripture verse, share why it’s meaningful to you or how others might apply it. Summarize the story around the verse so people who might not have heard it can be sure to understand.What’s coming up next:What’s the prosperity gospel? Episode 108 of Faithful on the Clock offers a working definition and explains why it’s so dangerous for professionals seeking ethical, God-oriented success.Support the show!Visit the Faithful on the Clock Patreon page to choose a tier plan and become a supporting member. You'll gain access to goodies like early episode access, newsletters, and more based on the plan that's right for you.patreon.com/faithfulontheclockWant to give a one-off tip or donation? Use our Captivate support page. You can become a member there with the same great tier options you'll find at Patreon, too.Support Faithful on the Clock

Faithful on the Clock is a podcast with the mission of getting your work and faith aligned. We want you to understand Who you're serving and why so you can get more joy and legacy from every minute spent on the clock. Thanks for joining us and taking this step toward a more fulfilling job and relationship with God!Want to join us on social media? We'd love to have you stay up-to-date with the show on all our platforms!TwitterFacebookPinterestInstagramLinkedInYouTubeIn this episode...Goals, Expertise, and Huge Hauls of Fish https://faithfulontheclock.com/goals-expertise-and-huge-hauls-of-fish Trust a lot in your own goals and expertise? Episode 106 of Faithful on the Clock uses the miraculous catches of fish to put your trust back in the provision and understanding of God.Timestamps:[00:04] - Intro[00:34] - Luke 5 tells how Jesus got into Simon Peter’s boat and provided a haul of fish so big they could barely handle it. The catch helped Simon Peter recognize Jesus as Lord.[02:57] - There was something about Jesus that made Simon Peter set aside his own expertise and trust Him. One lesson from Luke 5 is that you can trust God to have you start using new expertise you might not even realize you have.[05:21] - In the second miraculous catch story in John 21, which happens after the crucifixion, Simon Peter tells the other disciples he’s going to go fish.[05:52] - Simon Peter might have gone fishing after the crucifixion to provide a meal, but also because in the chaos, he needed a familiar job to feel calm. Be careful that in trying moments, you still move forward if needed, rather than defaulting back to what you know.[07:50] - Jesus appears to the disciples as they fish on the Sea of Galilee and provides another miraculous catch. The number of fish might be significant, indicating who Jesus is. But the catch helped the disciples realize it was Jesus on the shore.[09:53] - Jesus prepared a meal for the disciples on the shore of the Sea of Galilee in advance. He might have been trying to send a message not just about His identity, but also about trusting in His provision.[10:58] - We often trust our own expertise and provision rather than God’s. But God is very clear we do not need to do this and that we should not worry about our lives. This includes elements like getting certifications, landing clients, etc.[12:44] - Recap[13:24] - Prayer[13:49] - Outro/What’s coming up nextKey takeaways:In the first miraculous catch of fish where Jesus calls His first disciples, Simon Peter learned it was OK to leave all of the expertise and investment he had to learn from and do the work of Jesus. He allowed Jesus to take control and reset His path. In the same way, sometimes you might have to let go of the expertise and goals you have for yourself.After the crucifixion, Simon Peter defaulted to his old area of expertise (fishing), likely as a way of finding calm and orienting himself. If you find yourself needing to step into something new, be careful not to let what is familiar hold you back from where you need to go.The second miraculous catch of fish reminded the disciples Who Jesus was. It showed the growth in their faith, as well as the planning and provision God does on our behalf.We do not need to rely only on our own expertise and provision. Rather, we can lean on the expertise and provision of God.The Miraculous Catch of Fish | Angel Studios153 Fishes = I AM G-D? | Verse By Verse Ministry InternationalCTAs:Name the areas you consider yourself an expert in. What would you feel if those areas suddenly could not be part of your life?Seek at least three experts to talk to. Let your conversations with them increase your humility. Apply your learning in a way that can testify for God.What’s coming up next:Professionals today stress being positive. But Episode 107 of Faithful on the Clock explains how to prevent that advice from lapsing into accepting cat-poster Christianity as you study Scripture.Support the show!Visit the Faithful on the Clock Patreon page to choose a tier plan and become a supporting member. You'll gain access to goodies like early episode access, newsletters, and more based on the plan that's right for you.patreon.com/faithfulontheclockWant to give a one-off tip or donation? Use our Captivate support page. You can become a member there with the same great tier options you'll find at Patreon, too.Support Faithful on the Clock

Faithful on the Clock is a podcast with the mission of getting your work and faith aligned. We want you to understand Who you're serving and why so you can get more joy and legacy from every minute spent on the clock. Thanks for joining us and taking this step toward a more fulfilling job and relationship with God!Want to join us on social media? We'd love to have you stay up-to-date with the show on all our platforms!TwitterFacebookPinterestInstagramLinkedInYouTubeIn this episode...Learning to Speak Up: The Samaritan Woman at the Well https://faithfulontheclock.com/learning-to-speak-up-the-samaritan-woman-at-the-well Ever feel too bound by imposter syndrome or embarrassed by the things you’ve done to speak up? Has it kept you away from opportunities and other people? Episode 105 of Faithful on the Clock uses the story of the Samaritan woman at the well to help you find your voice.Timestamps:[00:04] - Intro[00:44] - Because the Pharisees had taken notice of Jesus because of the baptizing his disciples had been doing, He went from Judea back to Galilee. Along the way, He met a Samaritan woman at Jacob’s Well. The woman came to the well in the heat of the day because she was of ill repute, having had five husbands and being in a relationship with a sixth man.[03:26] - At the well, Jesus tells her about the living water He can provide. She does not fully understand Him but asks for the water so she won’t have to keep coming back to the well.[04:53] - Jesus reveals He knows all about the Samaritan woman. Seeing He is a prophet, she comments about how Jews and Samaritans have different ideas about where to worship. Jesus tells her worshipers must worship in the Spirit and truth. This foreshadowed His death on the cross and the ripping of the curtain in the temple.[07:55] - For the Samaritan woman, Jesus’ promises of peace and the ability to worship anywhere from her heart would have meant everything.[08:41] - Jesus’ disciples meet up with Jesus but do not comment about how He is conversing with the Samaritan woman. You have the same defense.[09:39] - The Samaritan woman is so happy and awed by what Jesus tells her that she suddenly leaves her jar behind and starts testifying about Jesus in the town. Because of her, people begin to have faith in Him.[11:13] - The meeting of Jesus and the Samaritan woman was a divine appointment. It was God’s intention that, through her, people would come to believe.[12:39] - You have a right to speak, especially when it comes to testifying for God. Your voice, like the voice of the Samaritan woman, absolutely matters.[14:15] - Prayer[14:54] - Outro/What’s coming up nextKey takeaways:With Jesus’ preaching gaining the attention of the Pharisees, Jesus meets a Samaritan woman at Jacob’s well. She came in the heat of the day because the other women didn’t want to associate with her due to her history with men. She was used to being ostracized and having no one to talk to.When the Samaritan woman requests that Jesus give her the living water He talks about so she doesn’t have to come to the well every day, she might be looking for peace from the pain she feels from drawing water alone.The Samaritan woman might have simply thought Jesus knew her story because he’d been talking to other people, but she instead recognized Him as a prophet. That recognition prompts her to note the difference between what the Jews and Samaritans believe about worship. Jesus explains to her that God is spirit and that where people worship isn’t going to be a concern — what matters is the heart people have for Him. That message likely would have meant everything to the Samaritan woman, who knew what it was like to feel cut off and bound by rules.When Jesus’ disciples came back, they didn’t challenge Him about the fact He was talking to the Samaritan woman. From that, you can take that Jesus will stand as protection for you, ensuring that God doesn’t see you as people see you.Having been told that Jesus is the Messiah, and having been given His lesson about living water and the ability to come to God wherever you are, the Samaritan woman suddenly finds her voice. She testifies for Him in the town, and because of her lifting her voice, others come to believe in Jesus. Jesus’ meeting with the Samaritan woman was not an accident. He was meant to meet her at the well so she would be able to speak up as an instrument of God.Like the Samaritan woman, you can speak up for God. You can glorify Him through your gifts and by modeling what it’s like to live a redeemed life. Your voice matters.CTAs:Challenge yourself to tell at least one other person about Jesus. This can be indirect, such as leaving a note on someone’s windshield, but communicate His message however and wherever He prompts you.What’s coming up next:When Jesus had his disciples cast their net on the opposite side of the boat, they got a miracle. Episode 106 of Faithful on the Clock connects that experience to how you set goals and trust your expertise.Support the show!Visit the Faithful on the Clock Patreon page to choose a tier plan and become a supporting member. You'll gain access to goodies like early episode access, newsletters, and more based on the plan that's right for you.patreon.com/faithfulontheclockWant to give a one-off tip or donation? Use our Captivate support page. You can become a member there with the same great tier options you'll find at Patreon, too.Support Faithful on the Clock

Faithful on the Clock is a podcast with the mission of getting your work and faith aligned. We want you to understand Who you're serving and why so you can get more joy and legacy from every minute spent on the clock. Thanks for joining us and taking this step toward a more fulfilling job and relationship with God!Want to join us on social media? We'd love to have you stay up-to-date with the show on all our platforms!TwitterFacebookPinterestInstagramLinkedInYouTubeIn this episode...Trusting God for Provision https://faithfulontheclock.com/trusting-god-for-provision Ever feel like the only one who’s going to provide for you is…you? Episode 104 of Faithful on the Clock reminds you of the importance of trusting in God’s provision rather than your own.Timestamps:[00:04] - Intro[00:39] - People get the message they have to provide for themselves from many sources within broken systems, and the message gets delivered extremely early in life.[02:33] - Believing you have to provide for yourself cuts God’s provision out of the picture. It leaves you with a choice between trusting yourself and trusting God.[04:11] - The choice of trusting God over yourself can be especially difficult because the world is good at generating fear around what will happen if you let go of your own control. Fear makes it difficult to use logic and what you know about God to trust Him and make good decisions in faith.[06:12] - If negative emotions can push you away from trusting God, positive emotions might push you toward trusting Him. The way you have a good experience and feel good about what God has done and will do is to look backward at His follow-through. He consistently has done exactly all He has promised, and His plans are clear if you connect the dots of Scriptural stories backward.[09:16] - You are part of God’s ongoing story! Look to see where God is connecting the dots in your own life. You might not recognize those connections in the moment, but they are there.[10:16] - People tend to make some presumptions about how God is or will treat them based on their experiences with people. Trusting in God thus means uncoupling Him from our Earthly experiences so we can understand His perfect love and grace. We might feel anxiety through that process because our brains are trying to protect us against more pain, but with God, the alarms we feel firing are false.[12:41] - Prayer[13:15] - Outro/What’s coming up nextKey takeaways:Most people work to provide for themselves and those they love. People usually learn this concept very early in life and learn over time that no one else has their back.Believing you have to provide contradicts what Scripture says God will do. You have to choose whether you will trust yourself or trust Him.The choice about whether to trust yourself or God is difficult because there is so much emotion (mainly fear) around it. The emotion shuts off our ability to be logical about whether God is trustworthy.One of the best ways to learn to trust God for provision is to look backward. Connect the dots about how God’s plans worked out and see how He always follows through. You are part of God’s continuing story and can look for how He is faithful to you, just as you look for how He has been faithful in the Bible.Trusting in God’s provision often requires uncoupling our experiences with people from God. We can run into trouble if we presume that He will disappoint us like people have disappointed us.Life Church Ruth Series, Pastor Craig GroeschelMy God Shall Supply, Arr. Larry NickelIs Fear a Good Motivator? | Regent UniversityCTAs:Identify at least one area where you haven’t been fully trusting God for provision. Set up one new habit that can help you break away from trusting only in yourself.What’s coming up next:Ever get scared to share Jesus at work or elsewhere because of what you’ve done in your past? Episode 105 of Faithful on the Clock uses the story of the Samaritan woman at the well to remind you you’re worthy of sharing the Good News.Support the show!Visit the Faithful on the Clock Patreon page to choose a tier plan and become a supporting member. You'll gain access to goodies like early episode access, newsletters, and more based on the plan that's right for you.patreon.com/faithfulontheclockWant to give a one-off tip or donation? Use our Captivate support page. You can become a member there with the same great tier options you'll find at Patreon, too.Support Faithful on the Clock