The Journey

This week on The Journey, we explored the delicate balance between requiring church attendance and allowing children to develop ownership of their faith. We examined how families can instill the value of church without making it feel like a burden, recognizing that while we can influence our children's spiritual development, ultimately their relationship with Christ requires the work of the Holy Spirit and their own choices. Church should be viewed as something we GET to do rather than something we HAVE to do, and our proximity to Jesus—not just physical presence at church—is what truly matters.WATCH ON YOUTUBE This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thejourneypodcast.substack.com

This week on The Journey, we explored the importance of complete honesty in our spiritual lives and accountability relationships. Drawing from a recent podcast episode about a pastor's moral failure and journey of restoration, we examined how "truth omission" - being open but not fully honest - can lead us down dangerous paths. We concluded that accountability is worthless if we're not completely truthful, and reminded us that what we don't bring into the light can't be healed. We also reflected on how God works sovereignly in different contexts and cultures, even through our imperfections, while still holding us responsible for our choices.WATCH ON YOUTUBE This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thejourneypodcast.substack.com

This week on The Journey, we answer a listener question!The discussion centered on whether physical posture in prayer (bowed heads, closed eyes) is required or if what truly matters is the posture of our hearts. We examined how the New Testament has internalized so much of what was external in the Old Testament, and how our prayers should reflect reverence and focus rather than mere ritual. The conversation also challenged us to think about what we pray for - noting that while physical healing requests dominate our prayer lists, the New Testament overwhelmingly emphasizes praying for spiritual health and maturity in believers.WATCH ON YOUTUBE This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thejourneypodcast.substack.com

This week on The Journey, we explored the tension many Christians face between desiring mountaintop experiences and learning to recognize God's faithfulness in the valley. We examined how proximity to Christ matters more than the frequency of extraordinary encounters, and how spiritual growth often happens through the small, consistent acts of obedience rather than dramatic experiences alone. WATCH ON YOUTUBE This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thejourneypodcast.substack.com

This week on The Journey, we explored how the early church experienced a profound sense of awe that transformed their daily lives and witness. Drawing from Acts 2:42-47 and an A.W. Tozer quote, we examined why many of us have lost this sense of wonder about God's being and work. The discussion challenged us to move beyond transactional Christianity and intellectual knowledge alone, recognizing that God is actively at work in both the extraordinary and the ordinary moments of our lives. As we prepare for Easter, this is a perfect time to reflect on the awe-inspiring reality of the cross and resurrection.WATCH ON YOUTUBE This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thejourneypodcast.substack.com

This week on The Journey, we discussed how the modern media landscape—particularly in conservative Christian circles—has created a vibe shift toward Christianity that may not actually be rooted in the claims of Christ and the Gospel. We examined how the "you've been lied to" narrative can lead people to distrust everything, including the church, and how political worldviews are increasingly being placed above biblical truth as our primary filter for understanding the world. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thejourneypodcast.substack.com

This week on The Journey, we talk about a fascinating tension between professing Christianity and living a transformed life. Has our faith moved beyond intellectual acknowledgment into genuine life transformation? Are we becoming more like Christ today than we were yesterday? When we claim to follow Jesus, the old self should be passing away and something new should be emerging.WATCH ON YOUTUBE This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thejourneypodcast.substack.com

What does it mean to experience more of God, and how do we navigate the tension between spiritual restlessness and contentment?This week on The Journey, we dive deep into the struggle many of us face when we sense there’s something more in our relationship with God but can’t quite grasp what that looks like.We talk about how letting the Spirit control our minds leads to life and peace, yet the question remains: are we seeking God for the right reasons, or are we driven by pride and the need to be seen as spiritual?Galatians 5 reminds us that when we live by the Spirit, we won’t gratify the desires of our sinful nature, but finding that balance between active pursuit and surrendered trust is where the real work begins. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thejourneypodcast.substack.com

This week on The Journey, we explored the tension between wanting more of God while struggling to define what that "more" looks like in our daily lives. We examined how our Western mindset often seeks to systematize our relationship with God—creating formulas and processes—while the mystical (or supernatural) aspects of faith resist being contained in boxes. The conversation revealed that experiencing God isn't about finding the "right" method, but about recognizing that He meets each of us differently based on our unique design, background, and current season of life. The challenge isn't choosing between systematic study and Spirit-led experience, but learning to be content in our pursuit of God while remaining open to however He chooses to reveal Himself to us.WATCH ON YOUTUBE This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thejourneypodcast.substack.com

This week on The Journey, our discussion centered on the tension between control and trust. Stress often reveals our lack of trust in God's sovereignty, and our natural response is to try to manage everything ourselves rather than surrender to His plan. But the truth is that God is protecting us by His power (1 Peter 1:5), even when circumstances feel chaotic and uncertain. Faithfulness and obedience—rather than perfect control—are what God calls us to, and sometimes our stress comes from trying to play God in our own lives instead of resting in His provision. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thejourneypodcast.substack.com

This week on The Journey, we're once again joined by our very own Doug Faulk to recap his experience at the Eagle Wings Conference. Doug reminded us that our everyday activities and hobbies aren't just recreational—they're mission fields. The conference centered on Mark 2 and the story of the paralytic man lowered through the roof by his four friends. This challenged us to identify specific people in our lives who need to encounter Jesus, and to use the things we're passionate about as bridges to gospel conversations. Whether it's disc golf, trading cards, hunting, or any other hobby, these aren't just pastimes—they're opportunities to walk alongside people and introduce them to Christ.Takeaways:- Be intentional about naming your "mat" - Don't just think generally about evangelism. Write down specific names of people God has placed in your path. Doug shared how he immediately reached out to someone on his list after the conference, and that person committed to attending next year's event.- Your hobbies are ministry opportunities - We often separate our "church life" from our recreational life, but God can use disc golf courses, hunting trips, or any shared interest as natural contexts for spiritual conversations. The key is moving from being a spectator to being active in ministry, just like the four friends who carried the paralytic.- Community multiplies impact - Doug started a prayer text group with people from six different states to pray for each other's "mats." We don't have to minister alone. Having others pray for and encourage our evangelistic efforts makes us bolder and more faithful.WATCH ON YOUTUBE This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thejourneypodcast.substack.com

This week on The Journey, we explored the deeply personal nature of engaging with Scripture and challenged some common assumptions about Bible reading. The key insight is that Scripture isn't a textbook to be mastered for a test, but rather a means of knowing God more deeply. Takeaways:- There's no one-size-fits-all approach to Scripture. Whether you're reading multiple chapters daily or meditating on a single verse, what matters is that you're engaging with God's Word in a way that works for your current season of life. - The goal is knowing God, not accumulating information. We often approach the Bible as if we need to extract practical applications or memorize facts, but the deeper purpose is relational—to know the character, heart, and ways of our Creator. - Repetition shapes us more than we realize. Even when you don't feel like you're "getting anything" from your reading, the consistent pattern of immersing yourself in Scripture is forming you spiritually in ways you won't fully recognize until years later.WATCH NOW ON YOUTUBE This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thejourneypodcast.substack.com

We finally made it to video!What does it mean to truly journey through Scripture, and can we find fresh perspective in familiar passages? There’s no single ‘right’ way to encounter Scripture; rather, we’re called to discover what draws us closer to God in our current season. Whether we’re finishing our first read-through of the Bible or our fiftieth, the question remains the same: What does God want us to do next? How is He calling us to grow? The beautiful truth is that we never truly ‘finish’ with Scripture—there’s always more to discover, always deeper intimacy with God to pursue, and always new ways He wants to transform us through His Word.WATCH NOW ON YOUTUBE AND SUBSCRIBE This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thejourneypodcast.substack.com

This week on The Journey, we explored the transformative power of genuine conversation and liturgical practices in our spiritual formation. We discussed how podcasting and long-form conversations help us understand others more deeply, even when we disagree, and examined the profound symbolism of the candlelight service—a liturgical way of proclaiming that Christ, born at Christmas, is the light who enters and overcomes the world’s darkness. The conversation reminded us that whether through structured liturgy or personal spiritual disciplines, we are all creatures of habit seeking to encounter God through meaningful practices.Takeaways:* Conversations Build Understanding: Spending extended time listening to others—even those we disagree with—helps us see them as people created in God’s image rather than just opposing viewpoints. This doesn’t mean compromising truth, but it does mean approaching disagreements with humility and respect.* Liturgy and Routine Have Formative Power: The “motions” we practice—whether reciting creeds, lighting candles, or maintaining family worship routines—can shape us spiritually when done with intentional hearts. The key isn’t avoiding routine, but ensuring our routines point us toward deeper relationship with Christ rather than becoming empty religion.* The Light Overcomes Darkness: The candlelight service symbolizes a profound truth: Christ entered our dark world as the Light. As we light candles from a single flame representing Jesus, we physically enact the Christmas gospel—reminding ourselves that His light continues to spread through us into a world that desperately needs it. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thejourneypodcast.substack.com

This week on The Journey, we explored the balance between two seemingly opposing ideas - the call to work diligently and pursue our God-given purposes versus the need to slow down and eliminate unhealthy hurry from our lives. The key insight is that both perspectives have merit depending on our season of life and context. The biblical pattern of working six days and resting one isn’t meant to be replaced by either constant busyness or perpetual rest. Rather, we’re called to work hard at what God has uniquely positioned us to do while also being wise about distractions and maintaining healthy rhythms.Takeaways:* Define your work biblically, not culturally. Ministry and many modern jobs look different from traditional manual labor, which can create guilt or confusion about productivity. Remember that important kingdom work isn’t always measured by a time clock - conversations, preparation, and responding to unexpected needs are all valuable, even when they disrupt our plans.* Eliminate distractions, not ambition. The goal isn’t to avoid all hurry or eliminate all ambition, but to ruthlessly cut out the things that drain our souls without adding value - particularly excessive social media consumption and constant digital noise. Consider what tools (like app blockers or scheduled “bricks”) might help you protect your focus for what matters most.* Match your season with appropriate expectations. Younger people building careers and families may need to embrace ambitious seasons of hard work, while those further along may need to pull back from unsustainable pace. Be honest about which season you’re in and extend yourself grace accordingly. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thejourneypodcast.substack.com

This week on The Journey, we explored how we often limit spiritual growth to traditional disciplines like morning quiet times and Bible study, when God actually uses every circumstance—especially marriage, parenting, and daily responsibilities—as vehicles for our sanctification. Drawing a little bit from Gary Thomas’s book Sacred Marriage, we examined how the messiness and sacrifice of everyday life can be just as spiritually formative as structured devotional time, challenging us to recognize God’s work in all contexts and seasons.Takeaways:* Spiritual growth happens in context, not just in quiet times. Whether you’re single, married, or parenting, God meets you where you are. The key is recognizing that rocking a baby at 3 AM or serving your family breakfast can be just as sanctifying as an hour of Bible reading.* Marriage and family are designed for holiness, not just happiness. These relationships force us to deny ourselves, confront our selfishness, and grow in ways that solitary spiritual disciplines cannot. The interruptions and demands aren’t obstacles to spiritual growth—they are the path.* Perspective matters more than perfection. Rather than feeling guilty about what we can’t do spiritually, we should prayerfully consider what level of sacrifice allows us to “live well in this season” while remaining open to God’s work in every moment of our day. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thejourneypodcast.substack.com

This week on The Journey, we took some time to explore the remarkable journey of Ridgecrest Baptist Church through the eyes of someone who has witnessed decades of faithful ministry. From the old sanctuary with its eight-foot ceilings and supporting poles to our current worship center, from traditional committee structures to our current staff-led model, we traced how God has been faithful through every season. More importantly, we discussed how authentic Christian community happens in both large gatherings and smaller, intentional groups—and how the role of servant leadership continues to shape our church’s health and vitality.Key Takeaways:* Legacy matters, but it must evolve. The faithfulness of previous generations laid the foundation we stand on today, but healthy churches adapt their structures and methods while maintaining their core mission. What worked for a church of 200 doesn’t always work for a church of 2,000, and that’s okay.* Servant leadership transforms community. The shift from deacons who made major decisions to deacons who serve, combined with staff who see themselves as shepherds rather than managers, has created an environment where ministry happens organically and people feel genuinely cared for.* Smaller groups create deeper connections. Whether it’s Man Church, Connection Groups, or other intentional gatherings, there’s something powerful that happens when we move beyond Sunday morning rows to face-to-face circles where people can share authentically and grow together. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thejourneypodcast.substack.com

This week on The Journey, we welcome Mitch Lucky to the show to help us explore the reality of being a witness for Christ outside the church walls, particularly in secular workplaces where people knew us before our transformation in Christ. Mitch shared his compelling story of how God has used his past struggles and current faithfulness to open doors for ministry among coworkers who watched him change. There’s a tension between our desire to share Christ and our fear of being seen as hypocritical by those who knew us “before.” But ultimately, we were reminded that God calls us to faithful obedience, allowing the fruit of the Spirit to speak louder than our words, and trusting that He will bring people to us in His perfect timing.Takeaways:* Let the fruit speak for itself - Rather than constantly defending our past or trying to prove we’ve changed, we should focus on living faithfully and allowing others to witness the transformation Christ has made in our lives through our daily actions and responses.* Don’t give up, but trust God’s timing - While we should never stop loving and being available to those who need Christ, we must balance faithful witness with patient trust in the Holy Spirit’s work. Some seeds take years to grow, as evidenced by the grandmother who faithfully witnessed to her grandson for years before he finally came to faith.* Step out of your comfort zone - God often uses our willingness to say “yes” to uncomfortable opportunities as the catalyst for Kingdom impact. Whether it’s sharing your testimony, leading a small group, or simply having a difficult conversation, obedience in discomfort often leads to divine appointments. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thejourneypodcast.substack.com

This week on The Journey, we explored the tension between feeling called by God and feeling equipped for that calling. We encourage each other (sorta) to step out in faith, even when we’re uncertain, trusting that the Holy Spirit works through our obedience rather than our perfection.Takeaways:* Obedience over comfort: God often calls us to serve in ways that stretch us beyond our comfort zones. Our willingness to say “yes” matters more than our perceived readiness.* Community discipleship takes many forms: We don’t all have to teach from a stage to make an impact. Discipleship happens in conversations, small groups, and everyday moments when we share what God is teaching us.* Genuine authenticity matters: Whether we’re serving in preschool, leading a group, or sharing our faith with a friend, people can sense when we’re being genuine versus just going through the motions. Let your service flow from a sincere heart.We encourage you to prayerfully consider where God might be asking you to step out in faith—even if it feels uncomfortable at first.Let us know what you think! Write to us at [email protected] and don’t forget to leave us a review on Apple Podcasts. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thejourneypodcast.substack.com

This week on The Journey, we returned from our staff retreat with a wide-ranging discussion that touched on something we all face daily: how do we discern what content is worth our time and attention? What started as a conversation about A.W. Tozer’s book turned into a deeper exploration of creativity, storytelling, and the importance of being careful about what we allow to shape our thinking.Takeaways:* Content matters more than the author’s reputation. While we may be drawn to books or podcasts by certain names, what ultimately matters is whether the content itself is true, good, and beautiful. Even respected authors from the past might not withstand today’s scrutiny, so we must evaluate everything through a biblical lens.* Creativity is part of our calling, not separate from it. Jesus told parables—creative stories that transformed hearts. We’ve surrendered too much of the cultural storytelling space, and we need Christians who can tell compelling, truthful stories that point people to the gospel without compromising truth for entertainment.* Guard what shapes your mind and heart. Whether it’s books, podcasts, TV shows, or personality assessments like the Enneagram, we must be discerning. Only God should define us, and we need to have “a check in our spirit” when something doesn’t align with biblical truth, even if it comes from Christian sources. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thejourneypodcast.substack.com

This week on The Journey, we explored the tension between extending grace to those struggling and enabling destructive patterns. We discussed how the church often falls into two camps—those who emphasize repentance without restoration, and those who walk alongside people through the messy journey of redemption. The discussion challenged us to consider: How long do we help someone before we’re simply enabling them? How do we balance Christ-like compassion with healthy boundaries? And why does vulnerability remain so difficult in many church circles, particularly in Southern Baptist culture?Key Takeaways:* Restoration is messy and requires long-term commitment. Real transformation rarely happens on our timeline. Some organizations succeed because they’re committed to the journey, not just a quick fix. We need to call people to something more while walking patiently alongside them through setbacks and failures.* The enemy uses deception to keep people stuck. Whether it’s convincing someone in addiction that they can’t change, or making them believe the church will only judge them, Satan works to prevent both the hurting and the helpers from experiencing God’s redemptive power. We must recognize these lies in ourselves and others.* Early Christians changed the world through radical, self-sacrificing love. During plagues in the third and fourth centuries, Christians walked directly into danger to care for the sick, viewing even death as a worthy sacrifice. Their lack of concern for self-preservation caused the church to explode in growth and forced even pagan emperors to take notice. We should ask ourselves: are we willing to love at that level? This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thejourneypodcast.substack.com

This week on The Journey, we explored the challenges we face in discerning truth amidst the prevalence of conspiracy theories. We discussed the importance of biblical wisdom in evaluating information, the dangers of uncritically accepting sensationalized claims, and the need for Christians to be grounded in God’s truth rather than speculative theories.Takeaways:* Be discerning: Not everything we read or hear, especially on social media, is true. We must carefully evaluate information and its sources.* Seek evidence: Like the Bereans in Acts 17:11, we should eagerly listen but also search the Scriptures and seek credible evidence before accepting claims.* Focus on what matters: Instead of getting caught up in unproductive speculations, we should concentrate on living out our faith and sharing the gospel. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thejourneypodcast.substack.com

This week on The Journey, we’re joined by one of our most loyal listeners: Curt Vance. We explored the concept of being the church beyond our Sunday gatherings. Our journey doesn’t begin and end within the church walls, but rather starts when we leave the building. Takeaways:* Our Christian witness extends beyond church attendance: We are called to be the church in our everyday lives, not just check in and out on Sundays.* Our actions reflect on Christ and our church community: Whether it’s our behavior at sports events or our conduct while driving, people associate our actions with our faith.* Serving others is at the heart of our calling: Jesus came to serve, not to reign, and we are called to follow His example in our own lives. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thejourneypodcast.substack.com

This week on The Journey, we explored the nature of faith, the challenges of fully embracing Christianity, and the ongoing process of spiritual growth. We discussed how both non-believers and long-time church members can struggle with fully surrendering to Christ, often due to the personal discomfort and life changes total submission requires. The discussion emphasized that salvation is not the endpoint, but rather the beginning of a lifelong journey with God.Takeaways:* True faith in Christ requires a complete reorientation of our lives, which is challenging but ultimately rewarding.* Many people, both inside and outside the church, struggle with fully embracing Christianity because it demands significant personal change.* Our spiritual journey doesn’t end with salvation; God is always calling us to go deeper and grow in our faith.If this conversation encouraged you, the best way you can support the podcast is by helping us spread the word:* Follow or subscribe in your favorite podcast app so you never miss an episode.* Leave a rating or review — it only takes a minute, but it makes a huge difference in helping others discover the show.* Share the episode with a friend who needs encouragement today. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thejourneypodcast.substack.com

This week on The Journey, we continue discussing the profound impact of Charlie Kirk’s life and tragic assassination, focusing especially on how this moment can inspire us to deepen our faith and live more intentionally. We discussed the power of forgiveness, as demonstrated by Charlie’s wife, Erika, and the importance of being prepared spiritually for life’s challenges.Takeaways:* Long obedience in the same direction: We emphasized the importance of consistent spiritual growth that prepares us for moments we don’t even know we’ll experience yet. * Finding your cause: Identify your God-given passions and use them to make a difference in your sphere of influence.* Dependence on the Holy Spirit: We recognized that true, lasting change in our lives comes not from willpower alone, but from relying on the power of the Holy Spirit. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thejourneypodcast.substack.com

This week on The Journey, we talked about the tragic assassination of Charlie Kirk and its implications for our faith and culture. We discussed the challenges of processing such events as Christians, the importance of standing firm in our convictions, and the need for respectful dialogue in an increasingly polarized world.Takeaways:* As Christians, we must be deeply convicted in our beliefs while also showing love and respect to those who disagree with us.* In a world of misinformation and quick judgments, we need to be cautious about how we consume and share information, especially on social media.* We are called to pray for our enemies AND seek justice, recognizing that God is both merciful and just. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thejourneypodcast.substack.com

This week on The Journey, we explored the complexities of hearing God's voice and discerning His will in our lives. We discussed how God communicates with us differently and the importance of patience on the journey. The sermon emphasized that while we may not always understand God's timeline or methods, He is always faithful and hears our prayers.Takeaways:* God speaks to each of us uniquely: Through journaling, prayer, or even through others, God communicates in ways tailored to our individual journeys.* Obedience matters more than outcomes: Sometimes, God calls us to act in faith without guaranteeing a specific result. Our role is to be obedient to His leading.* Balance is key in our faith walk: We should avoid both the "prosperity gospel" and the "poverty gospel," recognizing that God is a good Father who wants abundance for us, but also uses challenges to grow our faith. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thejourneypodcast.substack.com

This week on The Journey, college football is back so we discussed how easily sports can become an idol in our lives. It’s easy to allow it to affect our moods, our schedules, and our priorities. We talk about the importance of keeping our passion for sports in perspective and not allowing it to overshadow our spiritual lives or relationships.Takeaways:* Recognize when sports become an idol: Be aware of how much your mood and behavior are influenced by game outcomes or how often sports take precedence over other important aspects of life, including faith and family.* Maintain perspective: Remember that while sports can be enjoyable and even teach valuable lessons, they should not be the most important thing in our lives. Our relationship with God and our families should always come first.* Use sports as a tool for growth: Sports can teach valuable lessons about teamwork, perseverance, and handling both victory and defeat. We can use these experiences to grow in our faith and character.Let us know what you think! Write to us at [email protected], DM us in Journey Chat, and don’t forget to leave us a review on Apple Podcasts! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thejourneypodcast.substack.com

This week on The Journey, we explored how Gen Z (those born between 1997 and 2012) might be approaching faith and church involvement differently than previous generations. We discussed the importance of authenticity, the desire for deeper theological understanding, and the shift away from celebrity culture in the Church. These changes have implications for how we approach ministry and engage with younger members of our congregation.Takeaways:* Authenticity is key: Gen Z values genuine, transparent faith expressions over polished performances.* Depth over hype: There's a growing interest in deeper theological content and more contemplative worship experiences.* Engagement matters: Younger generations want to be part of the conversation about church practices, not just passive recipients.Let us know what you think about this week’s episode! Email us at [email protected], drop a note in Journey Chat, and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thejourneypodcast.substack.com

This week on The Journey, we explore awareness of the spiritual realm and how God protects us from so many little things that could harm us each day. Does the Lord allow us to see more of what’s happening in the spiritual realm if we ask Him? Here are a few takeaways:* God's protection is often unseen but ever-present in our lives. We may not always recognize it, but He is constantly working for our good.* Pursuing a deeper relationship with God through prayer and Scripture engagement can lead to increased spiritual awareness and discernment about what He is doing in our lives.* Sometimes God calls us to let go of good things in our lives if they've become idols or distractions from our relationship with Him.Let us know what you think about this week’s episode! Write to us at [email protected], leave a comment on Substack, or send us a DM in The Journey Chat.If you haven’t already, please leave us review on Apple Podcasts. It helps spread the word about the podcast. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thejourneypodcast.substack.com

Sometimes it’s really hard to find a spiritual home. This week on The Journey, we talked about the importance of discernment and perseverance in finding the right church family. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thejourneypodcast.substack.com

This week on The Journey, we talk about the challenging topic of discerning God's voice concerning major life decisions. How do you know that you’re sensing God closing one door to open another and how do you navigate these transitions with both faith and wisdom? Takeaways:* God's Word is our foundation, but He may also speak through circumstances and Godly counsel. Always ensure any perceived guidance aligns with what’s already in Scripture.* Seeking God's will is often a process that involves patient prayer, reflection, and discernment over time.* When making decisions, it's crucial to focus on obeying God rather than worrying about others' opinions or expectations. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thejourneypodcast.substack.com

This week on The Journey, we explore the importance of surrendering our wills to God, emphasizing the transition from merely seeking answers in scripture to experiencing God through truly seeking Him. It’s a reminder that we shouldn’t see the Bible as a tool for all of our questions, but as a pathway to deepening our relationship Jesus. Let us know what you think! Write to us at [email protected] OR join the Journey Chat. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thejourneypodcast.substack.com

This week on The Journey, we talk about the concept of servanthood. What does it truly mean to be a servant of Christ? Does that mean you’re supposed to be a doormat? Let us know what you think! You can join the Journey Chat on Substack or email us at [email protected] for listening to The Journey! Share the episode with someone you know. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thejourneypodcast.substack.com

This week on The Journey, we talk about the importance of genuine connection in the life of our church, the role of accountability in our spiritual lives, and the ongoing journey of faith. We discussed how these elements are crucial for fostering a deeper relationship with God and with each other.Takeaways:* Connection is vital: We think our church has a lot of great options for discipleship and Bible study, but there's a growing hunger for deeper connection. This reminds us of the early church in Acts, where fellowship was a key component of spiritual life.* Accountability is beneficial: While accountability can seem daunting, it's actually an opportunity for encouragement and growth for everyone involved. It's not about judgment, but about encouraging each other on the journey.* Spiritual growth is a journey: We were reminded that our walk with God is indeed a journey. Sometimes we're running and sometimes only limping, but the important thing is to keep moving forward in obedience, regardless of our feelings.Join The Journey Chat! Get the Substack app, drop in, and let us know what you think of this week’s episode. Or, as always, write to us at [email protected]. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thejourneypodcast.substack.com

Welcome back to The Journey!After a week (plus a couple days) off, we talk about how we often encounter moments where we struggle to see God's work in our lives. This episode reminds us that even when we can't visibly perceive His actions, the Holy Spirit is constantly interceding on our behalf.Romans 8:27 illustrates this, showing us that the Spirit pleads for believers in harmony with God's will. This truth challenges us to trust in God's unseen work, even when immediate results aren't apparent. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thejourneypodcast.substack.com

This week on The Journey, we explore the challenges of ministry in the American Church and what it truly means to serve God's purpose. We discussed how easy it is to get caught up in comparison, cultural influences, and the desire to do what seems successful, rather than focusing on what God is calling us to do. we talk about the importance of simplifying our approach to ministry and returning to the foundational elements of the early church: devotion to teaching, fellowship, prayer, and service.Takeaways:* Ministry is not about activity for activity's sake, but about being obedient to God's calling and allowing Him to work through us.* We must be careful about what influences us in our spiritual journey and ministry, ensuring we're becoming more like Christ rather than conforming to worldly expectations.* God can use various experiences, like camps or special events, to speak to us and shape our spiritual growth, but the focus should always be on Him, not the event itself.We challenge you to simplify your own approach to faith and ministry. Are you devoting yourself to God's teaching, genuine fellowship, heartfelt prayer, and selfless service?Let us know what you think! Write to us at [email protected] PodcastsSpotify This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thejourneypodcast.substack.com

This week on The Journey, we talk about standing before the judgment seat of Christ. As believers, how do we balance the awareness of future accountability with living in God's grace and love? We explore the tension between striving to please God and resting in His unconditional acceptance.We encourage each other to examine our motivations: Are we driven by fear of judgment or by a desire to faithfully serve Jesus? It's a call to live intentionally, knowing that our actions matter, while also embracing the freedom found in God's grace. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thejourneypodcast.substack.com

Sorry for being a couple days late! This week on The Journey, we talk about some future plans for the show and the summer ahead.What about you? Are you allowing the busyness of your summer to overshadow your relationship with Jesus, or are you finding creative ways to stay connected to Him?Let us know what you think! Email us at [email protected] This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thejourneypodcast.substack.com

This week on The Journey, we explored the significance of being deliberate about who we want to become and the convictions we hold. We discussed the challenge of living out our convictions in a world full of distractions. This has profound implications for our own journey, as it calls us to be more thoughtful about our beliefs and more intentional about our actions.Takeaways:* Convictions are the foundation of who we are and should be stronger than mere preferences or principles. We need to regularly examine our convictions to ensure they're truly rooted in Scripture.* Being deliberate about who we want to be requires intentionality and often means resisting the "current" of life that can easily carry us away from our goals.* It's crucial to limit our inputs and be discerning about the voices we allow to influence our beliefs and actions.As we move forward, we encourage you to take some time to reflect on your own convictions. Are they truly foundational to who you are? Are you being deliberate about becoming the person God is calling you to be? Let us know what you think! Write to us at [email protected] for listening to The Journey! Please share this episode with a friend or family member.Thanks for listening to The Journey! Subscribe for free to receive new episodes in your inbox first. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thejourneypodcast.substack.com

This week on The Journey, we spend some time recapping our most recent prayer summit. It was a powerful demonstration of our church coming together in unity before the Lord. The event was marked by intentional prayer, enhanced by worship that created a reverent atmosphere, and culminated in a spontaneous moment of corporate prayer at the altar. This reminded each of us the importance of prayer in our spiritual lives and the strength and encouragement we find in praying together as a body of believers.Takeaways:* The power of corporate prayer: Seeing church members readily step up to pray for one another at the altar was a beautiful picture of the body of Christ in action.* The impact of atmosphere: The addition of music significantly enhanced the prayer environment, helping to create a focused and worshipful setting.* The importance of responding to God: The altar call provided an opportunity for people to respond to God's prompting in their hearts, reminding us to always be open to His leading.Thanks for listening to The Journey! If you were blessed by this episode, please share it with a friend.Thanks for listening to The Journey! Subscribe for free to receive new episodes in your inbox. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thejourneypodcast.substack.com

This week on The Journey, we explored the challenges and importance of having authentic spiritual conversations with fellow believers. Why do these conversations often feel unnatural in our culture and how we can intentionally cultivate deeper spiritual relationships?The implications for your spiritual life are significant - by overcoming your hesitation and engaging in more meaningful conversations, you can strengthen your own walk with Christ and encourage others in their Journey.Takeaways:* Intentionality is key: Set aside specific times to have spiritual conversations with trusted friends or family members.* Vulnerability breeds authenticity: Be willing to share your own struggles and questions to create a safe space for others to do the same.* Practice makes progress: Like tending a garden, developing deep spiritual relationships takes time and consistent effort.We encourage you to consider who God has placed in your life that you could engage in more intentional spiritual conversations with! Let us know what you think! Write to us anytime at [email protected] with your comments, questions, or general feedback.Thanks for listening to The Journey! If you found this episode helpful, please consider sharing it. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thejourneypodcast.substack.com

This week on The Journey, we talked about how the abundance of spiritual resources - from sermons to small groups to personal devotions - can maybe sometimes hinder rather than help our transformation. We reflected on the importance of simplifying our approach to faith and focusing on what truly helps us grow closer to God.Here are just a few takeaways:* Quality over quantity: It's not about consuming more spiritual content, but about deeply engaging with what we learn and allowing it to transform us.* Personal reflection is key: Taking time to journal, pray, and contemplate how God is working in our lives is crucial for spiritual growth.* Long-term perspective: Transformation often happens slowly over time, not in dramatic moments. We need patience and perseverance in our spiritual journey.Don’t forget to let us know what you think! Email us anytime at [email protected]. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thejourneypodcast.substack.com

This week on The Journey, we explored the nature of spiritual gifts, our desire for a deeper connection with God, and the importance of understanding our individual roles in God's plan. We reflected on how our spiritual gifts may evolve over time and the significance of continually seeking God's presence in our lives.Takeaways:* Spiritual gifts are diverse and can change over time as we grow in our faith and enter different seasons of life.* Our desire for a deeper connection with God is natural and should be pursued, but we must be patient and trust in God's timing.* Understanding our personal way of communing with God is crucial for spiritual growth and contentment in our faith journey.Don’t forget to let us know what you think! Email us anytime at [email protected] for listening to The Journey! If this week’s conversation blessed you, share it with a friend.Thanks for listening to The Journey! Subscribe to receive new episodes in your inbox as soon as they’re available. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thejourneypodcast.substack.com

I apologize for releasing this episode a day late… It’s probably because Chase asked a question that basically turned into an hour long therapy session for me, so I just wanted to delay the release as much as possible. ;) -BroxtonThis week on The Journey, we continued talking about spiritual frustration and chose to camp out on Psalm 131 and the idea of a calmed and quieted soul. We reflected on our motivations for seeking God and the importance of pursuing a genuine, personal relationship with Him that goes beyond surface-level religious activities.Let us know what you think! Comment here on Substack or write to us at [email protected] for listening to The Journey! If you found this episode helpful, please do us a favor and share it with a friend.Thanks for listening to The Journey! Subscribe for free to receive new episodes in your inbox first. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thejourneypodcast.substack.com

This week on The Journey, we explore the challenges and misjudgments we often face in our early years as Christians. We discuss how our understanding of what it means to be "all in" for Jesus evolves over time, and how the church can sometimes inadvertently focus more on programs than on cultivating deep, personal relationships with God.Takeaways:* True spiritual growth takes time and requires consistent engagement with Scripture and prayer, not just attending church events.* We often need mentorship and guidance from more mature believers to help us navigate our faith journey effectively.* It's important to focus on communing with God directly, rather than just consuming content about Him.Thanks for listening to The Journey! This episode is public so feel free to share it.Thanks for listening to The Journey! Subscribe for free to receive new episodes here first. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thejourneypodcast.substack.com

This week on The Journey, we explore the profound impact of prayer. We talk with Lance Whitehurst about personal experiences with prayer, the importance of praying Scripture, and how prayer transforms us more than it changes our circumstances. We were reminded that prayer is not just about presenting requests to God, but about developing an intimate relationship with Him.Takeaways:* Prayer is about intimacy with God, not just presenting a list of requests. It's an opportunity to be close to Him and align our hearts with His will.* Praying Scripture can deepen our prayer life and help us internalize God's promises and truths.* Prayer changes us more than it changes our circumstances. It's a tool God uses to transform our hearts and minds.As we reflect on these insights, let's challenge ourselves to approach prayer with renewed intentionality. Thanks for listening to The Journey! Subscribe for free to receive new episodes here first.Thanks for listening to The Journey! This episode is public so feel free to share it. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thejourneypodcast.substack.com

Last week, we talked about long obedience in the same direction. This week on The Journey, we talk about it some more! We reflect on the fervor of the early church, the challenges of being a Christian today, and how important personal responsibility is in your journey of discipleship. Long obedience in the same direction requires commitment and may look different for each believer. It's about finding what works for you in pursuing Christ while remaining grounded in biblical truth and community.Thanks for listening to The Journey! This episode is public so feel free to share it.Thanks for listening to The Journey! Subscribe for free to receive new episodes here first before they hit other podcast platforms. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thejourneypodcast.substack.com

How does God speak? This week on The Journey, we talk about the various ways we hear God’s voice in Scripture and our personal experiences. Daniel’s story stands out, reminding us that growing with God is dependent on consistent devotion over a lifetime.Thanks for listening to The Journey! This episode is public so feel free to share it.Thanks for listening to The Journey! Subscribe for free to receive new episodes in your inbox. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thejourneypodcast.substack.com

Auborn’s Question of the Week: what is the biggest struggle of the Church today?This week on The Journey, David fills in for Chase as we continue discussing some recurring themes related to our spiritual growth.One key takeaway? Keep seeking God, even if you get discouraged or frustrated when things don’t “work.”SHOW NOTES Five Day Reading Plan This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thejourneypodcast.substack.com