Walking Close, Living Changed

In this episode of Walking Close, Living Changed, Brian Opbroek explores what it means to feel like something is missing in life and how to find it. Reflecting on the milestone of reaching episode 14, he shares that while people are called to be whole, many still experience areas that feel incomplete. Using the parable of the lost coin from Bible (Luke 15), Brian turns the story into a practical guide for personal growth. He emphasizes that the coin had great value, which is why the woman searched urgently—leading to a key question: what are you missing, and how badly do you want it? He breaks down her actions into simple steps: "lighting a lamp" represents gaining clarity and seeking truth, while "sweeping the house" symbolizes removing distractions that may be hiding what you're looking for. Brian also highlights the importance of persistence—pointing out that many people stop too soon, while real progress requires continuing until results show up. He closes by encouraging listeners to pursue what's missing with intention, discipline, and consistency, and to celebrate the wins when they come.   Key Topics Discussed Feeling whole while still sensing something is missing The lost coin parable as a model for finding what's lost The importance of wanting something enough to pursue it Gaining clarity to see what needs to change Removing distractions that hold you back Staying persistent and not quitting too soon Recognizing how close you may be to a breakthrough Celebrating wins and progress along the way   Relevant Scriptures Luke 15:8–10 The foundation of the episode—illustrates the value of what is lost and the joy of finding it. Matthew 7:7–8 Encourages persistence in seeking, emphasizing continuing "until" results come. Psalm 119:105 Supports the idea of "lighting the lamp" through God's Word for clarity and direction. Proverbs 4:25–27 Reinforces focus and removing distractions while pursuing what matters. Hebrews 12:1 Highlights the importance of clearing out obstacles that hinder progress. Galatians 6:9 Encourages perseverance, reminding that results come if we don't give up. 1 Thessalonians 5:16–18 Connects to the final step of celebrating and giving thanks after finding what was lost.

In this episode of Walking Close, Living Changed, Brian Opbroek explores a rarely discussed struggle: how to live in peace after the storm. Using the image of a sailor who can't relax after surviving rough seas, he explains how many people stay stuck in survival mode—expecting chaos even when life has calmed. While most teachings focus on trusting God during hardship, Brian shifts the focus to what comes after, reminding us it's okay to rest when the storm has passed. Drawing from real-life challenges and Acts 27–28, where Paul survives a storm and lands on Malta, Brian highlights a powerful lesson: peace is not laziness—it's restoration. Like Paul shaking off the snake, we're called to embrace calm without fear. He closes by emphasizing that peace is a gift from God—and learning to receive it is part of spiritual maturity.   Key Topics Discussed Hypervigilance and anticipatory anxiety after trauma The difficulty of embracing peace after hardship Trusting God not just during storms—but after them The symbolism of Malta as a "sweet place" of restoration Choosing calm even when it's challenged Letting go of fear that the storm will return Not allowing others' opinions to disrupt your peace The difference between rest and laziness Using seasons of calm for restoration and preparation Becoming a source of healing and hope for others   Relevant Scriptures Acts 27–28 – Paul's storm, shipwreck, and restoration on Malta Mark 4:35–41 – Jesus calming the storm Hebrews 4 – Entering God's rest Matthew 8:14–15 – Jesus heals Peter's mother-in-law Mark 16:18 – Protection from harm (referenced with the snake bite) James 1:17 – Every good and perfect gift comes from God 1 Kings 19 – Elijah's despair after victory Book of Jonah – Struggling to accept God's mercy after obedience Job (various passages) – Enduring others' opinions during suffering  

*]:pointer-events-auto scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" data-turn-id= "request-WEB:38930692-01cd-40fd-87b1-2dcad1ac7e9c-28" data-testid= "conversation-turn-2" data-scroll-anchor="true" data-turn= "assistant"> In this episode, Brian wraps up his three-part series by focusing on giving—the third spiritual discipline from Matthew 6. After prayer and fasting, he explores how generosity is not just financial, but deeply spiritual. Brian explains that giving, like prayer and fasting, is meant to humble us and draw us closer to God—but it can easily become performative if done for recognition. Using Jesus' teaching, he reminds us that God values what's done in secret and that giving ultimately reveals the condition of our heart. This isn't about earning blessings or prosperity thinking. It's about alignment. True generosity shows up not just in money, but in how we give our time, energy, and attention to others. Through biblical examples and real-life moments, Brian makes one thing clear: God isn't after appearances—He's after your heart.   Key Topics Discussed The third spiritual discipline in Matthew 6: giving How prayer, fasting, and giving all humble the believer The difference between generosity and performative giving Why giving should be done in secret Giving as a gauge of the heart "Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also" The difference between blessing and generosity Why wealth is not the true measure of spirituality The widow's mite as a model of true giving Abraham's life as an example of surrender and generosity Modern-day examples of practical generosity The warning of Ananias and Sapphira Simon the sorcerer and the danger of transactional thinking Giving yourself away as evidence of faith   Relevant Scriptures Matthew 6:1–4 "Be careful not to practice your righteousness in front of others to be seen by them…" "When you give to the needy, do not announce it with trumpets…" Matthew 6:21 "For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." Matthew 6:24 "You cannot serve both God and money." Luke 21:1–4 The widow's offering / widow's mite Genesis 12 Abraham leaves his homeland in faith Genesis 13 Abraham gives Lot first choice of the land Genesis 14 Abraham gives to Melchizedek Genesis 22 Abraham's willingness to offer Isaac Acts 4:32–37 Barnabas gives generously Acts 5:1–11 Ananias and Sapphira Acts 8:18–24 Simon the sorcerer tries to buy spiritual power 2 Corinthians 9:7 "God loves a cheerful giver." 

In this episode, Brian continues exploring Jesus' teaching from Matthew 6 by focusing on the spiritual discipline of fasting. Just as Jesus said "when you pray," He also said "when you fast," showing that fasting is meant to be a normal part of a believer's life. Brian explains that fasting isn't about drawing attention to ourselves, but about humbling our hearts and focusing on God. He also clarifies that fasting can take many forms—giving up food, media, or other distractions—in order to intentionally seek the Lord. Using examples from Scripture including Daniel, Esther, Ezra, and Jesus, Brian highlights five rewards that often accompany fasting: spiritual insight, favor in difficult situations, stronger faith, resistance to temptation, and deeper humility. This episode serves as a practical introduction and encouragement to begin incorporating fasting into your life as a way to walk closer with God.   Key Topics Discussed Jesus' teaching on fasting in Matthew 6 Fasting as a spiritual discipline alongside prayer and generosity The importance of fasting in secret rather than for recognition Different forms of fasting (food, media, speech, and other distractions) Biblical examples of fasting from Daniel, Esther, Ezra, and Jesus Five rewards of fasting: insight, favor, faith, resistance to temptation, and humility Personal testimony about fasting and prayer The role of humility in the Christian life   Relevant Scriptures Matthew 6:16–18 – Jesus' teaching on fasting in secret Daniel 5:12 – Daniel's wisdom and spiritual insight Acts 9:9–18 – Paul fasting after his encounter with Christ Esther 4:15–16 – Esther calling a fast before approaching the king Ezra 8:21–23 – Ezra proclaiming a fast for protection and guidance Matthew 4:1–11 – Jesus fasting and resisting temptation in the wilderness Isaiah 58 – The heart of true fasting James 4:10 – Humble yourselves before the Lord and He will lift you up

Brian opens the episode by acknowledging how this might be a listener's first or tenth episode, then quickly moves into the central message: pray. Not just thinking about prayer or sending emojis—but actually opening your mouth, going to a quiet place, and talking to God. He references Matthew 6, where Jesus doesn't say "if you pray," but "when you pray," emphasizing that prayer is an assumed part of a believer's life. Brian teaches the importance of praying out loud—even alone—as a sign of faith that God is listening. He breaks down Jesus' model of prayer, the Lord's Prayer, as not just a script but a framework for how to approach God—from honoring His name to aligning with His will to seeking forgiveness and provision. Brian also highlights: Private Prayer: the intimacy and proof of belief found in closing the door and praying where no one else sees. Corporate Prayer: the power of agreement and praying aloud with others, including praying for and with people in public settings. Persistent Prayer: drawn from Luke 18, he shares Jesus' parables about asking, seeking, and knocking—continuing in prayer even when it feels like nothing is changing. Jesus as an Example: From praying all night to praying with tears, Brian underscores how Jesus modeled prayer in both form and fervency. He ends with an encouragement to pray as soon as the episode ends—not out of duty, but out of desire to talk to a God who wants to hear your voice.   Key Topics Discussed The difference between thinking about prayer and actually praying The power of praying out loud, even in solitude Breaking down the Lord's Prayer as a model The impact of consistent and persistent prayer (Luke 18) Examples from Jesus' life: all-night prayers, emotional prayers, and public prayers Teaching children to pray The beauty and power of praying with others (corporate prayer) Building faith through prayer and learning to hear God in the silence   Relevant Scriptures Matthew 6:6–13 – The Lord's Prayer and private prayer instructions Luke 18:1–8 – Parable of the persistent widow John 11:41–42 – Jesus' public prayer before raising Lazarus James 5:16 – The effective, fervent prayer of the righteous Hebrews 5:7 – Jesus praying with loud cries and tears

In this episode, Pastor Brian Opbroek speaks to the inner turmoil many people live with and offers a simple but challenging truth: peace of mind is often just one decision away. Drawing from Scripture, personal counseling experiences, and powerful real-life examples, he explains how anxiety, restlessness, and mental torment are frequently rooted in delayed obedience—knowing what needs to be done but avoiding it. Pastor Brian encourages listeners to identify the one action God has already placed on their hearts, whether it involves forgiveness, reconciliation, changing direction, or letting go of control, and to take that step toward peace, clarity, and rest.   Key Topics Discussed:  Peace of mind vs. mental torment The power of one decisive, obedient choice Anxiety, despair, and coping mechanisms Forgiveness, reconciliation, and relational responsibility Obedience over religious performance Discerning God's will in daily decisions Knowing when to act and when to release control The Serenity Prayer as a framework for peace   Relevant Scriptures: Matthew 5:23–24 – Reconciliation before prayer Deuteronomy (early chapters) – Alignment affecting spiritual clarity 2 Corinthians 2:12–13 – Paul leaving Troas due to lack of peace Acts 20–21 – Context of Paul's ministry and decision-making James 4:13–17 – Acting within God's will; sin as knowing and not doing James 4:17 – "Anyone who knows the good they ought to do and doesn't do it, sins."  

In "Mark Your Sacred Moments," Pastor Brian unpacks the biblical and personal importance of remembering what God has done in your life. Through examples from his own spiritual journey—like his first encounter with God, family rituals, and meaningful souvenirs—he encourages listeners to create markers, whether physical or symbolic, that anchor their faith. Drawing from stories like Noah's altar, Jacob's pillar, and Jesus' Last Supper, he shows how these markers help us return to God's faithfulness when doubts, trials, or forgetfulness creep in. He also explains that remembering sacred moments isn't just for us—it's a way to encourage others and help them find hope in our testimonies. From journaling to tattoos, rituals to souvenirs, Brian urges listeners to intentionally honor what God has done, because what we remember can shape what we believe and how we lead others.   Key Topics Discussed: The concept of spiritual markers and memory as sacred discipline Biblical examples of altars, pillars, and rituals (Noah, Abraham, Jacob, Moses, Jesus) Personal stories: from first spiritual encounters to family traditions like the sheep pen The psychology of memory and how rituals help us grow, heal, and lead Why marking moments helps us level up, move forward, and guide others Practical ideas: journaling, objects, souvenirs, tattoos, and storytelling   Relevant Scriptures: Deuteronomy 4:9 — "Do not forget the things your eyes have seen…" Genesis 28 — Jacob's pillar and dream Genesis 8:20 — Noah builds an altar Matthew 26:26 — The Last Supper as a ritual of remembrance Exodus 14:14 — "The Lord will fight for you…" 2 Peter 1:5-9 — Adding to your faith and remembering your forgiveness Psalm 139 — "Where can I go from your Spirit?"

Pastor Brian dives deep into the radical paradox at the heart of the Gospel message—that in God's Kingdom, everything is flipped. Drawing from personal experiences and the teachings of Jesus, he explains how real strength is found in surrender, how brokenness often precedes breakthrough, and how the path to fullness often requires emptiness first. He challenges listeners to reevaluate their ideas of success, power, and purpose, calling them into a life of true surrender and trust in God. This episode invites listeners into a space of reflection and submission to the upside-down ways of the Kingdom.   KEY TOPICS DISCUSSED The upside-down nature of the Gospel Surrendering worldly strength to embrace divine power The beauty of weakness when given to God Why brokenness is often a pathway to transformation Trusting God's paradoxical path to purpose   RELEVANT SCRIPTURES Matthew 16:24–25 – "Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me…" 2 Corinthians 12:9 – "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Isaiah 55:8–9 – "For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways," declares the Lord. Philippians 2:5–11 – Christ's humility and exaltation  

Brian opens with a memory from 1998 when he was walking and praying in the woods. That day, a simple prayer came to his heart: "Father, I need Your presence, Your approval, and Your power." That prayer has stayed with him ever since and has become a foundational cry in his journey with God. He unpacks each word: Presence: More than goosebumps or feelings, God's presence means knowing He is with you always. Brian compares this to the powerful emotional impact of an earthly father simply being in the stands at a game—how it gives confidence and peace. He references Psalm 139 and redefines "the joy of the Lord is your strength" as the strength that comes from knowing the Father delights in you. Approval: Brian explores our deep desire to know we are seen, known, and approved by our Father. He tells a vulnerable story from childhood about wearing an unfashionable haircut to win his dad's approval, drawing parallels to how we crave affirmation from God. He also tells the story of Solomon, whose prayer for wisdom was likely rooted in the ache for his own father David's approval. Power: Brian shifts to why God's power matters—not for self-glory, but because God wants us to partner with Him to love and reach the world. He critiques how many earthly fathers withhold power from their children, contrasting this with a father who entrusts and empowers. Using examples from the life of Jesus, Brian shows that even Jesus had a moment of baptism where He received His Father's presence, approval, and power—before stepping into ministry. The episode ends with a heartfelt prayer for the listener to experience these same three things, and to live out their calling filled with God's Spirit.   Key Topics Discussed The original 1998 prayer: Presence, Approval, Power Longing for God's presence beyond emotion The deep human need for affirmation and approval from a father Story of Solomon and David's public dismissal Earthly fathers vs. the empowering nature of God Transfer of power and trust in healthy father/child relationships The baptism of Jesus as a model moment The purpose of power: to reveal God's love to the world 📖 Relevant Scriptures Psalm 139 – "Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence?" Nehemiah 8:10 – "The joy of the Lord is your strength." 1 Kings 3 – Solomon's request for wisdom Matthew 3:16–17 – Jesus' baptism and the voice from heaven John 14:12 – "Greater works than these will you do." 1 Corinthians 13 – Love as the highest language and evidence of the Spirit Romans 12:15 – "Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn."

Pastor Brian follows up last week's theme on living your faith by exploring what it truly means to communicate it. Beginning in Acts 2, he reflects on the outpouring of the Holy Spirit and the miracle of the apostles speaking in the native tongues of people from every nation. But more than a linguistic event, he reveals it as a spiritual principle: when filled with the Holy Spirit, we gain the power to meet people where they are. Brian unpacks how real evangelism isn't about pushing or preaching at someone—it's about learning to speak to them in ways they understand, and that starts by listening. From Paul's example of becoming "all things to all people" to a touching story of helping a nervous new father, Brian reminds listeners that people's stories matter. He emphasizes the importance of listening, empathy, humility, and relational love. He also addresses the frustration believers feel when others don't respond to their faith and gently reminds us: you're not the Holy Spirit. Your job is to love, relate, and speak with compassion—the Spirit will do the convicting and changing. The episode concludes with a powerful message: love is the universal language. Whether rejoicing or weeping, connecting with others starts with Spirit-led love that speaks directly to the heart.   Key Topics Discussed: The Day of Pentecost (Acts 2) and the miracle of speaking in tongues The connection between the Holy Spirit and relational communication Paul's strategy of becoming all things to all people (1 Corinthians 9) The power of listening before speaking Personal stories: new father advice, a hurting young woman, and real-life application Understanding cultural, emotional, and spiritual "languages" Love as the universal language and the highest form of communication Encouragement to live and speak with empathy, not anger or force Relevant Scriptures: Acts 2:1–11 – The apostles speak in many languages through the power of the Holy Spirit 1 Corinthians 9:19–22 – Paul becomes "all things to all people" to win some 1 Corinthians 13 – The love chapter; love as the ultimate spiritual language Romans 12:15 – "Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep." James 1:19–20 – "Be quick to listen, slow to speak, slow to become angry." Colossians 3:7 – A reminder of who we once were before faith 1 Peter 3:15–16 – Sharing faith with gentleness and respect   

Brian opens with a heartfelt reflection on how frustrating it can be when we want others—especially those we love—to experience the same transformation we've had through faith in Jesus. Using the metaphor of sharing a favorite song with someone who doesn't "get it," he explores how timing, openness, and free will affect someone's journey toward belief. He walks through the story of the Apostle Paul, one of the most impactful evangelists in Scripture, and highlights that even Paul couldn't convince everyone. Some believed. Others didn't. Brian shares Paul's experience in Acts 28:24 as a freeing truth for believers today: "Some were convinced by what he said, but others would not believe." Even with miracles, cultural adaptation, and powerful testimony, people still chose not to believe—because belief is ultimately a choice. Brian emphasizes that you are not the Holy Spirit, and that trying to take on that role will only lead to frustration. He encourages listeners to live their faith honestly and consistently, sow seeds, water hearts—but release the outcome to God. He reminds us that even Jesus experienced rejection, and that the win isn't in forcing belief but in faithfully continuing to love, speak truth, and "keep playing the song."   Key Topics Discussed: The frustration of wanting others to believe in God when they don't Why real belief can't be forced or faked—it's a matter of free will Lessons from Paul's ministry efforts and evangelism strategies The limits of apologetics and persuasive arguments How to love and share your faith without trying to control others The difference between sowing seeds and causing spiritual growth Trusting the Holy Spirit to do what only He can do   Relevant Scriptures: Acts 28:24 – "Some were convinced by what he said, but others would not believe." 1 Corinthians 3:6–7 – "I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God has been making it grow." Matthew 11:16–17 – "We played the flute for you, and you did not dance…" 1 Peter 3:1 – "…they may be won without a word by the conduct…" (implied in reference to believing spouses)

Brian opens with an honest reflection on the power of speaking truth aloud—not just to others, but to ourselves and to God. He encourages listeners to carve out space for real, vulnerable conversation with God and reminds us that spiritual clarity often comes through simple presence, not performance. The episode centers around the question, "How do you see God?"—exploring how even faithful people can carry distorted views of Him. Brian shares his own experience with aphantasia (the inability to visualize images) and how it's affected the way he "sees" God—not through form or image, but through presence, light, and love. Drawing from Scripture, Brian unpacks the idea that even Biblical heroes like Peter, James, and John had skewed understandings of God's character—and how Jesus lovingly corrected them. The episode culminates in a powerful takeaway: while our perspective of God may shift or struggle, God's perception of us remains constant, true, and full of love. He ends with a moving prayer, inviting listeners to ask the Holy Spirit to shake loose any false filters through which they see God and to embrace the true character of the Father as revealed through Jesus. Key Topics Discussed:  The importance of talking out loud to God and processing spiritually What it means to have a "skewed view" of God Personal story about having aphantasia and how it affects spiritual imagination How religious upbringing or tradition can cloud our view of God Encouragement to seek the real character of God beyond religious performance Stories of Biblical characters who misunderstood God but were lovingly corrected How God's view of us remains steady, even when ours of Him doesn't The invitation to "come and see" God for who He really is Relevant Scriptures: John 1:43–51 – Jesus calls Philip and Nathaniel; Nathaniel's transformation from skepticism to faith Luke 9:54–55 – James and John want to call down fire; Jesus rebukes them Acts 10 – Peter's vision about clean/unclean animals and God redefining perspective Hebrews 12:27 – "Everything that can be shaken will be shaken" (referenced conceptually) Psalm 139 (implied) – God sees, knows, and is present with us

Pastor Brian continues the conversation from Episode 1 about real transformation, illustrating that God's change isn't just gradual—it can happen in an instant. He shares a humorous story about a friend who shocked himself by cheering for the Eagles, highlighting how even small shifts in perspective can signify deeper internal change. Using scientific and historical analogies, he explains that while some changes happen over time, others are immediate, permanent, and irreversible—just like a chemical reaction. The same applies to our spiritual lives: when we truly encounter Jesus, we can be changed in an instant. Brian examines four biblical figures to contrast those who were radically changed by Jesus with those who missed their moment of transformation: Zacchaeus – A tax collector who, after one encounter with Jesus, gave away half his wealth and repaid those he wronged, showing true repentance and transformation. Judas Iscariot – Unlike Zacchaeus, Judas wanted Jesus to change the world but wasn't willing to change himself, ultimately leading to his downfall. The Demoniac of Gadara – A man possessed by demons who was instantly set free and became a passionate messenger for Jesus, embracing a complete life transformation. The Lame Man at Bethesda – A man physically healed by Jesus but unwilling to change his heart, ultimately betraying Jesus to the religious leaders. Brian challenges listeners to reflect on whether they truly want to be changed by God or if they're just seeking circumstantial change. He encourages self-examination, urging believers to pray for a shift in perspective, openness to personal transformation, and a desire to truly walk with God.   Key Topics Discussed:  The difference between gradual and instant transformation How personal encounters with Jesus lead to true change Why some people experience deep transformation while others resist it The contrast between wanting God to change you vs. wanting God to change the world around you The importance of being willing to let go of old ways   Relevant Scriptures: Luke 19:1-10 – The transformation of Zacchaeus John 12:1-6 – Judas' response to generosity and his true motives Luke 8:26-39 – The healing and transformation of the demon-possessed man John 5:1-15 – The lame man at Bethesda and his reluctance to change John 1:43-51 – The calling and transformation of Nathanael Hebrews 13:8 – Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever  

In this heartfelt and introspective first episode, Pastor Brian Opbroek shares the inspiration behind launching his podcast. A recent conversation with a lifelong friend revealed the profound transformation that comes from truly walking with God—not just following religious principles, but allowing one's very spirit to be reshaped by divine love and wisdom. Pastor Brian reflects on his decades-long journey of faith, ministry, and personal growth. He shares stories of real-life change—marriages restored, individuals overcoming addiction, and people discovering a deeper connection with God. Through it all, he emphasizes the power of genuine transformation, one that affects not just actions but thoughts, emotions, and relationships. With honesty and warmth, he invites listeners into meaningful conversations about faith, personal growth, and becoming more like Christ. He introduces the core theme of his podcast: helping others live a life that is "Happy, Healthy, and Whole." Pastor Brian ends with a heartfelt prayer for all who are listening, encouraging them to seek God's abundant life and to join him on this journey of faith, wisdom, and real change.   Key Topics Discussed:  True transformation comes from a deep relationship with God, not just religious practice. Growth in faith impacts every area of life, from relationships to emotional well-being. God's desire is for us to be happy, healthy, and whole—spiritually, mentally, and physically. This podcast will be a space for real conversations, encouragement, and guidance on walking with God.  

In this short intro episode, Pastor Brian Opbroek shares the heart behind Walking Close, Living Changed. Born from his personal journey with God, this podcast is a space for honest conversation, Scripture-based teaching, and Spirit-led reflection—designed to help listeners draw closer to God and experience transformation from the inside out. Whether you're a long-time believer or just beginning to explore faith, each episode offers truth, grace, and practical insight for walking with God in real life. Walking Close, Living Changed is a podcast from Pastor Brian Opbroek focused on real-life transformation through faith, God's presence, and honest conversation. Whether you're walking through struggle, healing, or rediscovery, this podcast invites you to draw near to God and let His presence reshape your heart and your life—from the inside out.