PODCAST · religion
PonderingGod
by Pastor Craig McCourt
TIme to stop and slow down and connect faith to everyday life, through a GodPonder. Pastor Craig McCourt loves to Ponder God and share those thoughts with you. Designed to encourage, challenge and inspire you with the great stories of Scripture and the stories of life.
Episodes
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ponderingGod - God for a Walk
In Ephesians 2:10, Paul reminds us that we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works that God prepared beforehand for us to walk in. This episode explores three powerful truths: God intentionally created us, our lives are not random but part of His loving plan, and the good...
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ponderingGod - National Hotdog Day
On this special National Hotdog Day episode, Pastor Craig explores Psalm 145:15-17 and the beautiful truth that God continues to open His hand and provide for all His creatures. Using everything from hotdogs and baseball to daily bread and God's ongoing care, listeners are reminded that the Lord...
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PonderingGod - God is Right Handed
In this episode of the Pondering God Podcast, Pastor Craig explores Isaiah 41:10 and the four powerful promises God gives His people: His presence, His strength, His help, and His promise to uphold us with His righteous right hand. Through Scripture, illustrations, humor about left-handed and...
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ponderingGod - Big 3 - Things you can learn from Macaroni
On this National Macaroni Day episode of Pondering God, Pastor Craig McCourt explores three surprising spiritual lessons from a simple noodle. Discover how the many shapes of macaroni remind us of the unity and diversity of Christ's Church, how macaroni's ability to stretch a meal points to…
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Look Up in the Sky Day
On National Look Up At The Sky Day (April 14), Pastor Craig McCourt reflects on Psalm 19:1–6 (ESV) and invites listeners to practice simple, do-able spiritual habits: a five-minute sky pause, pairing Scripture with skywatching, and a short photo-plus-prayer exercise. He offers practical…
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Is the Resurrection Old News
In this episode of The Pondering God Podcast, Pastor Craig explores the question, "Is the Resurrection Old News?" Using John 20 and 1 Corinthians 15, he reflects on why Easter joy often fades after one Sunday and why the resurrection must remain central to our daily lives. Through humor,...
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PonderingGod - A germ worth sharing
National JoyGerm Day, celebrated every January 8th, was founded in 1981 by Joan E. White of Syracuse, New York, as a movement to spread kindness, optimism, and contagious joy. For Christians, this day offers a natural opportunity to reflect the joy of Christ — through Scripture, acts of kindness,...
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PonderingGod - And Then Came The Wisemen
In this episode, Pastor Craig explores the often‑overlooked timing of the Magi's visit in Matthew 2:1–12 and why it matters that they arrived two years after Jesus' birth. Through storytelling, Scripture, and practical application, we learn three key lessons: God's timing is perfect, seeking…
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PonderingGod Podcast New Year - New Word
In this episode of The Pondering God Podcast, Pastor Craig kicks off the new year with a warm and humorous reflection on the gift of Scripture memory. Drawing from Psalm 119:11—"I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you"—he explores why memorizing Scripture strengthens...
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PonderingGod - Angels at Work
In this episode of the Pondering God Podcast, Pastor Craig explores the powerful role of angels in Scripture and in our lives today. Using Acts 12 as a launching point, we reflect on how God sends His holy angels in response to prayer, and how we can pray for those bound by sin and darkness. With...
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PonderingGod - Message Monday - GodSpeaks TEACHING
TODAY marks the begining of a 4 week series based on 2 Timothy 3:16-17 All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 (NIV) We as a congregation...
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Message Monday - A Dose of Doubt May Strengthen Your Faith
TODAY marks the begining of Season 7 of the ponderingGod Podcast and we are excited to have you join us on our journey. ponderingGod Podcast - Message Monday - Featuring a message from Pastor Craig McCourt. Today's Episode was recorded on August 17, 2025 at Peace Lutheran Church in Arlington, MN...
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Message Monday - Power Given when Power is Needed.
ponderingGod Podcast - Message Monday - Featuring a message from Pastor Craig McCourt. Today's Episode was recorded on July 20, 2025 at Peace Lutheran Church in Arlington, MN part of the God's Outreageous claims series. (For more information on Peace Lutheran Church, where Craig currently serves…
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ponderingGod - Classic Episode Season 1 Episode 6
In the final episode of Season 6 - we look back on Season 1 Episode 6 - The Storm! We will return again on August 25th with season 7 (For more information on Peace Lutheran Church, where Craig currently serves as Pastor, visit www.peacearlington.org Please share this podcast with a friend, and do...
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ponderingGod - National Drive-Thru-Day
In this episode of The Pondering God Podcast, Pastor Craig celebrates National Drive-Thru Day with a call to slow down and savor God's Word. Through Scripture, storytelling, and three wild drive-thru tales, he reminds listeners that faith, rest, and wisdom can't be ordered to-go. With Proverbs...
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ponderingGod - The God who has No Limits
In this episode, Pastor Craig explores the comforting and challenging truth that God has no limits. Through personal stories, Scripture, and a touch of humor, we're reminded that God is present everywhere, knows everything, and has the power to intervene in our lives. Whether you're feeling...
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ponderingGod - When Humor isn't Funny
In this episode, Pastor Craig explores the viral Coldplay Kiss Cam moment involving Astronomer CEO Andy Byron and HR chief Kristin Cabot, asking the question: When is humor not funny? Through Scripture, quotes from Martin Luther and C.S. Lewis, and reflections from Rev. Ben Griffin, we're…
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Message Monday - An Eternal Difference
ponderingGod Podcast - Message Monday - Featuring a message from Pastor Craig McCourt. Today's Episode was recorded on July 6, 2025 at Peace Lutheran Church in Arlington, MN part of the God's Outreageous claims series. (For more information on Peace Lutheran Church, where Craig currently serves…
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ponderingGod - One of those Days
On today's episode of The Pondering God Podcast, Pastor Craig McCourt explores those discouraging days when it feels like the universe is lined up against us. Drawing from Psalm 40:23, Craig reminds us that lament can give way to praise as we trust in God's unfailing love. He offers five tangible...
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ponderingGod - Fort Knox
In this episode, Pastor Craig McCourt compares the famously secure Fort Knox vault to the eternal inheritance God has reserved for believers. Exploring five security features of Fort Knox—from blast-proof doors to restricted tours—Craig highlights how our heavenly inheritance is even more...
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ponderingGod - The Boy on the Island
In this episode, Pastor Craig McCourt tackles the classic castaway question: if a boy lived—and died—alone on an island, could he be saved? We dive into Scripture to see that salvation is purely by God's grace, received through faith in Jesus Christ, not by our works. Along the way, Craig shares...
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ponderingGod - Lessons from a Campfire
In this episode of The Pondering God Podcast, Pastor Craig McCourt draws rich spiritual lessons from the simple wonder of a campfire. Fresh off a Minnesota camping trip filled with friends, flames, and fire-colored magic, Craig offers three Scripture-rooted truths about fueling faith, being...
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Message Monday - Thanksgiving
ponderingGod Podcast - Message Monday - Featuring a message from Pastor Craig McCourt. Today's Episode was recorded on Nov. 27, 2024 at Peace Lutheran Church in Arlington, MN Thanksgiving Eve Worship (For more information on Peace Lutheran Church, where Craig currently serves as Pastor, visit...
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ponderingGod - Lonley People
In this episode, Pastor Craig McCourt reflects on National Cheer Up the Lonely Day through a confessional Lutheran lens. He explores biblical promises—Isaiah 41:10, Psalm 68:6, and Hebrews 13:5—and shares a vivid illustration of Christ as a bridge over loneliness. Pastor John Niebuhr joins for an...
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ponderingGod - Keep It Simple
In this episode of The Pondering God Podcast, Pastor Craig McCourt reflects on Jesus' simple yet powerful summary of God's law: Love God. Love Neighbor. With warmth, humor, and plenty of stories—including riding shotgun with chickens and pigs in Houston—Pastor Craig shows how this straightforward...
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ponderingGod - Children of the King
In today's episode, Pastor Craig McCourt invites listeners into the rich truth of 1 John 3:1, exploring what it means to be a "Child of God." Through engaging stories, surprising royal facts, and Scriptural depth, Craig reflects on both the spiritual blessings and the holy expectations of this...
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ponderingGod - Great Combinations
In this flavorful episode, Pastor Craig celebrates National Chocolate and Almonds Day by exploring great combinations—from your snack drawer to your soul. From biblical dynamic duos like Moses & Aaron and Paul & Barnabas to theological truths like repentance & forgiveness and water & the Word, we...
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Message Monday - How to Win at the Rat Race, Without Becoming A Rat!
ponderingGod Podcast - Message Monday - Featuring a message from Pastor Craig McCourt. Today's Episode was recorded on June 29, 2025 at Peace Lutheran Church in Arlington, MN The third in a series of God's Outreageous Claims - How to Win the Rat Race, Without Becoming a Rat (For more information…
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ponderingGod - The Freedom to be Dependent
Show Notes Summary: On this Fourth of July episode, Pastor Craig dives into a timely reflection on freedom—not just political, but spiritual. With stories, Scripture, and even a few fireworks facts, this episode explores the paradox of being both independent from the world and dependent on a...
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ponderingGod - Grammarly for Theology
In this episode, Pastor Craig humorously imagines a "Grammarly for Theology"—a divine proofreader to catch our doctrinal typos. We explore two spiritual benefits of such a tool: guarding our confession (2 Timothy 4:2–3) and building healthy Christian community (Ephesians 4:15–16). Along the way…
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ponderingGod - Last Transmission
In this episode of The Pondering God Podcast, Pastor Craig reflects on the mysterious last transmission of Amelia Earhart and how it mirrors our own spiritual signal strength with God. Through three powerful takeaways—about listening for God's voice, trusting without a full map, and remembering…
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ponderingGod - Go West Young Man
In this episode of The Pondering God Podcast, Pastor Craig McCourt reflects on Genesis 12 and the call of Abram, weaving in lessons from his son Isaiah's new camper-van birding adventure. We learn three key takeaways: embracing God's call into the unknown, carrying His blessing outward to others,...
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Message Monday - You Can Forgive Yourself!
ponderingGod Podcast - Message Monday - Featuring a message from Pastor Craig McCourt. Today's Episode was recorded on June 22, 2025 at Peace Lutheran Church in Arlington, MN The first in a series of God's Outreageous Claims - You Can Even Learn To Forgive Yourself.. (For more information on…
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ponderingGOD - TGIF
In this episode of The Pondering God Podcast, Pastor Craig dives into the spiritual depth behind the familiar phrase "Thank God It's Friday." What begins as a light-hearted cultural catchphrase unfolds into a rich exploration of God's presence in the ordinary, the finished work of Christ on the...
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ponderingGOD - This is For The Birds
In Summary: In this episode, Pastor Craig shares three spiritual lessons we can learn from our feathered friends—birds. From trusting God\'s provision to singing in the dark, to having the courage to soar when God calls, we are invited to reflect on how the songs and flights of birds mirror our...
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ponderingGod - The Ancient Mentor
In today's episode titled "The Ancient Mentor," Pastor Craig McCourt explores key passages from Hebrews 13, emphasizing the importance of mutual love, hospitality, and respecting spiritual guidance as timeless mentor advice. By connecting these ancient words to our everyday lives, Pastor Craig...
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ponderingGod - Creation Speaks the Praise of its Creator
In this episode of the Pondering God Podcast, Pastor Craig McCourt invites us to marvel at the beauty and intentionality of creation. From the cosmic dance of the stars to the delicate detail of a single leaf, all of creation sings praise to its Creator. With reflections on amateur photography,...
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Message Monday - Forgiving your Enemies
ponderingGod Podcast - Message Monday - Featuring a message from Pastor Craig McCourt. Today's Episode was recorded on June 15, 2025 at Peace Lutheran Church in Arlington, MN The first in a series of God's Outreageous Claims - There is Freedom in forgiving your enemies. (For more information on...
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ponderingGod - Acts 2 Preaching in an Acts 17 World
Pastor Craig unpacks the difference between Peter's sermon in Acts 2 and Paul's in Acts 17, showing how the early church adapted its message without altering the truth. As we speak to a culture increasingly unfamiliar with the Bible, this episode provides practical, grace-filled strategies for...
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ponderingGod - LP to ESV
Music and the Word of God have journeyed together through time, shaping culture, faith, and human expression. From ancient scrolls and 78 RPM records to streaming services and digital Bibles, each innovation has changed how we engage with divine truth and melody. In this episode, we explore how...
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ponderingGod Podcast - Minnesota in Mourning
In this episode, Pastor Craig McCourt explores the loss of civility in today's world and how Christians can respond with love, patience, and Christlike conversation. He also addresses the recent tragic shooting of two Minnesota legislators and their spouses, urging listeners to be voices of peace...
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Message Monday - Tale of Two Trees
ponderingGod Podcast - Message Monday - Featuring a message from Pastor Craig McCourt. Today's Episode was recorded on June 1, 2025 at Peace Lutheran Church in Arlington, MN The text for the message was: Revelation 22 (For more information on Peace Lutheran Church, where Craig currently serves as...
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ponderingGod Podcast - Make some Popcorn
Celebrate National Movie Night with Christian family films that inspire and uplift! In this episode, Pastor Craig McCourt discusses why faith-based movies matter and highlights four incredible films from iiFilms: Treasure Lies, The Current, Miles Between Us, and the upcoming My 7 Grandmas.…
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ponderingGod Podcast - What is man? (Psalm 8)
Psalm 8 reminds us of both the vastness of God's majesty and His intimate care for us. While we often seek to ascend to divinity, God humbles Himself in Christ. In this episode, Pastor Craig reflects on the paradox of humanity's longing for more and Christ's willingness to give it all up for us....
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ponderingGod Podcast - Ice Cream and Catechism
What does Ice Cream and a Lutheran Catechism have in common. (beyond after you read one, you deserve the other) Let's find out in todays PonderingGod Episode. (For more information on Peace Lutheran Church, where Craig currently serves as Pastor, visit www.peacearlington.org Please share this...
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ponderingGod Podcast - The First Tuesday After Pentecost
Welcome to another episode of Pondering God Podcast with Pastor Craig McCourt! Pentecost has come and gone—the flames, the rushing winds, even the potluck casseroles—but now it's Tuesday. How do we live as Pentecost People in the ordinary moments of life? (For more information on Peace Lutheran...
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Message Monday - Three Pentecosts
Pentecost Sunday 2025 - Three Pentecosts. This is a very personal and direct message for the members of Peace Lutheran Church in Arlington, MN - I pray it encourages you as well. Each Monday Morning, we bring you a message hot off the press or from the archives. We pray that these messages will…
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ponderingGod Podcast - If we teach them....
Jesus didn't call us to bring people to church—He calls us to bring the church to the people. In this episode, Pastor Craig explores what it means to train believers to go into their neighborhoods, workplaces, and everyday conversations, living out their faith in practical ways. With Scripture,...
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ponderingGod Podcast - Let's Try That Again
In this episode, Pastor Craig explores the beauty of do-overs from a Biblical perspective. Using stories from Peter, Jonah, and even the resurrection, he explains why fresh starts matter and how we can practically embrace new beginnings. From confession to renewal, this episode encourages…
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ponderingGod - Beyond Christmas and Easter
(NOTE: We reset our episode count to reflect the number of episodes found on this current site.) In this episode, Pastor Craig McCourt explores why Pentecost is just as crucial as Christmas and Easter. He discusses how the church was born, how the Spirit empowers believers, and why Pentecost...
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
TIme to stop and slow down and connect faith to everyday life, through a GodPonder. Pastor Craig McCourt loves to Ponder God and share those thoughts with you. Designed to encourage, challenge and inspire you with the great stories of Scripture and the stories of life.
HOSTED BY
Pastor Craig McCourt
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does PonderingGod have?
PonderingGod currently has 78 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is PonderingGod about?
TIme to stop and slow down and connect faith to everyday life, through a GodPonder. Pastor Craig McCourt loves to Ponder God and share those thoughts with you. Designed to encourage, challenge and inspire you with the great stories of Scripture and the stories of life.
How often does PonderingGod release new episodes?
PonderingGod has 78 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.
Where can I listen to PonderingGod?
You can listen to PonderingGod on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts PonderingGod?
PonderingGod is created and hosted by Pastor Craig McCourt.
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