Shoes Off

PODCAST · religion

Shoes Off

Shoes Off is a weekly Christian podcast designed for your commute, morning coffee, or quiet break.  Each episode combines scripture, reflection, and a practical weekly challenge that you can carry into everyday life. The name comes from two powerful images: Moses removing his shoes to meet God on holy ground, and the phrase “that sermon stepped on my toes”—a reminder that God’s word both comforts and challenges us to grow. Through relatable stories, timely illustrations, and biblical truth, Shoes Off helps you pause, prepare your heart, and walk closer with Christ each week. Join us as we take our shoes off—because growth begins on holy ground. Email us at [email protected]

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    The Kingdom of Heaven is Like.... | Matthew 25

    Send us Fan MailWhat does it actually mean to be ready for Jesus’ return?In the final episode of our series “The Kingdom of Heaven is like…”, we unpack one of Jesus’ most sobering parables—the ten virgins in Matthew 25:1–13.All ten looked prepared.  All ten were waiting.  All ten had lamps.But only some were truly ready.In this conversation, we discuss: The context of Matthew 25 and why Jesus told this parable  Why the bridegroom’s delay reflects the waiting for Christ’s return  The significance of the oil and the difference between appearance and preparation  What Jesus meant when He said, “I don’t know you”  Why readiness cannot be borrowed from someone else  And why Jesus warned us not to obsess over predicting dates, but to live prepared The question is not “When?” but “Am I ready?”We'd love to hear from you -- email us at [email protected]

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    The Kingdom of Heaven is Like... | Episode 3

    Send us Fan MailIn week three of our series “The Kingdom of Heaven is like…”, we dive into the wheat and the weeds (Matthew 13:24–30, 36–43).At first glance, it raises a difficult question: If good seed was planted… where did the weeds come from?Jesus doesn’t avoid the tension, he explains it.In this episode, we break down: Why this parable is about the world  The reality of both good and evil growing side by side  The role of the enemy and why that matters  Why God doesn’t remove evil immediately  And what our role actually is in the middle of it We'd love to hear from you -- email us at [email protected]

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    The Kingdom of Heaven is Like... | Episode 2

    Send us Fan MailWhat would you give up… if you truly understood what you’ve found?In week two of our series “The Kingdom of Heaven is like…”, we look at two of Jesus’ shortest—but most challenging—parables: the hidden treasure and the pearl of great price (Matthew 13:44–46).In both stories, the response is the same: everything is given up… for one thing.Why?Because when the value becomes clear, the decision becomes obvious.In this episode, we unpack: What Jesus means by “the kingdom of heaven”  Why the treasure is hidden—and why so many miss it  How Christ Himself is the true treasure  And how our lives reveal what we actually value We'd love to hear from you -- email us at [email protected]

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    The Kingdom of Heaven is Like... | Episode 1

    Send us Fan MailWhat if the most powerful work God is doing in your life… looks small?In this first episode of our new series, “The Kingdom of Heaven is like…”, we unpack two of Jesus’ simplest—but most overlooked—parables: the mustard seed and the yeast.Jesus doesn’t describe the kingdom with something big, loud, or impressive. He points to something tiny. Something hidden. Something easy to miss.And that’s the point.The kingdom of heaven isn’t just a future destination—it’s God’s rule and reign at work right now. And more often than not, it shows up in ways we don’t expect.If you’ve ever felt like your faith is small, your progress is slow, or nothing is really changing… this episode is for you.Because the kingdom of heaven is like… something small that changes everything.We'd love to hear from you -- email us at [email protected]

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    Real Talk - Testimonies | Mark 5: Go Tell

    Send us Fan MailOver the past few weeks, we’ve sat in awe listening to real stories from Joe, Cierra, and Cody, each one a powerful reminder that God is still working, still restoring, and still transforming lives today.But this week, we take a step back and ask a deeper question:Why does our testimony matter so much?In this episode, Ray and Isaac walk through Mark 5:1–20....the story of the man delivered from a legion of demons and the moment Jesus gives him one simple command:“Go home… and tell them how much the Lord has done for you.”Together, we unpack: Why your testimony is evidence of God’s power  Why Jesus often sends us back to the very places we came from  Why your story isn’t about perfection—but about His mercy If you’ve ever felt like your story isn’t enough… or you’ve hesitated to share it… this conversation is for you.We'd love to hear from you -- email us at [email protected]

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    Real Talk - Testimonies | Cody

    Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the Shoes Off Podcast, we continue our Real Talk – Testimonies series with our friend Cody, who shares a raw and honest story of faith, struggle, and ongoing transformation.This episode is not about having everything figured out. It’s about the reality that God meets us in our darkest places and continues to work in us, even when the journey is messy and ongoing.Cody’s story is still being written, and it’s a powerful reminder that God doesn’t give up on us — He continues to restore, refine, and reveal Himself over time.Join us for a real conversation about trauma, healing, and the faithfulness of God through every season.We'd love to hear from you -- email us at [email protected]

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    Real Talk - Testimonies | Cierra

    Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the Shoes Off Podcast, we continue our Real Talk – Testimonies series with our friend Cierra, who shares a powerful and deeply personal story about identity, family, and the faithfulness of God.Cierra was adopted and later began a journey that led her to discover more about her biological family.  But this conversation goes far beyond a story about adoption.  As we listened, it became clear that what we were really witnessing was the hand of God working through every chapter of her life.When we sat down with Cierra, Brandy, Isaac, and I honestly didn’t talk very much. We mostly listened.  There were moments where we simply sat in awe of how clearly God’s presence and guidance could be seen throughout her story.Often when people hear the word testimony, they think of the moment someone first comes to salvation. But sometimes a testimony is about something different — how God continues to pursue us, guide us, and reveal His purpose in our lives over and over again.Cierra’s story is a beautiful reminder that God is always working, even in seasons where we may not fully understand what He’s doing.Join us for a real, heartfelt conversation about identity, belonging, and the incredible ways God continues to work in our lives.We'd love to hear from you -- email us at [email protected]

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    Real Talk - Testimonies | Joe

    Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Shoes Off Podcast, we continue our series called Real Talk – Testimonies, where we sit down with people to hear the real stories of how God has worked in their lives.Our guest today is Joe, whose journey to faith didn’t begin early in life.  Like many people, Joe spent years walking his own path before eventually encountering the truth of the gospel in a way that changed everything.  In this conversation, Joe shares openly about what led him to Christ, the turning point that shifted his life, and how God continues to shape and transform him today.This episode isn’t about having all the answers or presenting a perfect story.  It’s about honesty, growth, and the reminder that no one is beyond the reach of God’s grace.If you’ve ever wondered whether it’s too late for your life to change, Joe’s story is a powerful reminder that God can meet us at any point in our journey.Join us for a real conversation about faith, redemption, and the ongoing work of transformation.We'd love to hear from you -- email us at [email protected]

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    Real Talk - Testimonies | Ray & Isaac

    Send us Fan MailIn this first Real Talk Testimony episode of Shoes Off, Ray and Isaac step into the conversation themselves.No scripts.  No polished production.  No pretending.Just two men sharing their personal journeys — how they came to salvation, the seasons that shaped them, the moments that tested their faith, and where they stand today.This episode walks through honest questions about surrender, growth, doubt, obedience, and what it truly means to follow Christ — not perfectly, but faithfully. There may be pauses. There may be emotion. There may be moments that feel raw.That’s intentional.The goal isn’t to present a flawless story. It’s to highlight the redeeming work of God and to show that transformation is possible through a relationship with Jesus.If you’ve ever wondered whether your past disqualifies you… if you’ve wrestled with faith… if you’re walking through a season where God feels distant — this conversation is for you.Take your shoes off.  Join us for Real Talk.We'd love to hear from you -- email us at [email protected]

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    God's Promises - Restoration

    Send us Fan MailIf you could restore one thing in your life… what would it be?A relationship?A season?A decision?A part of your heart?In this final episode of God’s Promises, we explore the promise that ties every other promise together: Restoration.Throughout Scripture, God doesn’t just forgive — He restores.He restores the joy of salvation (Psalm 51:12).He restores life after trouble and suffering (Psalm 71:20; 1 Peter 5:10).He restores the years that feel wasted (Joel 2:25).And one day, He will restore everything (Acts 3:21).We also unpack the “4 Rs of Restoration” — Replace, Renew, Revive, Return — and what it means for God to replace hardened hearts, renew minds, revive spiritual life, and return us to deep fellowship with Him.But restoration doesn’t end with this life.  Revelation 21 promises a day when every tear is wiped away, death is defeated, and all things are made new. Heaven isn’t escape...it’s restoration completed!We'd love to hear from you -- email us at [email protected]

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    God's Promises - Peace | John 16:33

    Send us Fan MailIn this episode of God’s Promises, we explore what Jesus really meant when He said:“In this world you will have trouble. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)If nearly one in five adults experience anxiety each year, what does it mean for believers to live in peace? Is peace the absence of trouble? Is it emotional calm? Or is it something deeper?In this conversation, we unpack:What Jesus meant by “these things” in John 16:33The difference between peace with God (Romans 5:1) and the peace of God (Philippians 4:6–7)Why peace doesn’t remove storms but anchors us in themHow Isaiah’s “perfect peace” (Isaiah 26:3) was written during national instabilityWhy Christ’s presence — not our control — is the foundation of lasting peaceWe'd love to hear from you -- email us at [email protected]

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    God's Promises - Transform Us | Ezekiel 36:26

    Send us Fan MailLet's be real.....many of us believe God forgives us, but wonder if real change is actually possible.In this episode of God’s Promises, we explore one of the most hopeful assurances in Scripture: God’s promise to transform us.  Transformation isn’t instant, dramatic, or driven by willpower.  It’s a faithful, God-led process that happens from the inside out.Using passages like Ezekiel 36:26, 2 Corinthians 3:18, and Philippians 1:6, we talk about what it means to receive a new heart, to be transformed “from one degree of glory to another,” and to trust that God will finish the work He started in us. We also draw from the Christian-living article “10 Ways to Be Transformed by Christ and Not Conformed to the World” from iBelieve.com, highlighting why spiritual change is a process of renewal, not conformity.We'd love to hear from you -- email us at [email protected]

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    God's Promises - Forgiveness | Psalms 103:10-12

    Send us Fan MailIn this episode of God’s Promises, we talk about one of the most freeing — and most misunderstood — promises in the Bible: God’s promise to forgive. Many believers quietly wonder if they’ve said “sorry” enough, confessed enough, or remembered every sin. But Scripture tells a much better story.God’s forgiveness is not fragile.  It is complete!Through passages like Psalms 103, 1 John 1:9, and the story of the prodigal son, we explore the difference between positional forgiveness (once-for-all forgiveness secured by Christ) and relational forgiveness (ongoing confession that restores closeness, not salvation). In this episode, we discuss:Why Christians don’t need to keep re-earning forgivenessThe difference between confession and insecurityHow guilt distorts our view of graceWhy repentance is about returning, not resettingHow God restores relationship without revoking salvationWe'd love to hear from you -- email us at [email protected]

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    God's Promises - To Provide

    Send us Fan MailWhat does it really mean when God promises to provide?In this episode of God’s Promises, we look at Jesus’ simple but powerful prayer: “Give us this day our daily bread.”  This promise was never about wealth, excess, or guaranteed financial success.  It was about trust — daily, faithful dependence on a God who sees and cares.From manna in the wilderness to Jesus pointing to the birds of the air, Scripture consistently shows that God’s provision is intentional, sufficient, and personal.  God promises to meet our needs, not to provoke a desire for riches or turn faith into a financial transaction.In this episode, we talk about:Why God’s promise of provision is not a promise of wealthThe biblical difference between needs and wantsWhy daily provision builds trust and dependenceHow God’s care often shows up quietly and faithfullyWhy God’s faithfulness isn’t measured by our bank accountsWe’ll also share practical challenges to help you release worry, resist unhealthy pursuit of “more,” and learn to trust God for today’s provision.We'd love to hear from you -- email us at [email protected]

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    God's Promises - His Presence | Joshua 1:9

    Send us Fan MailHave you ever been going through something hard and realized the problem wasn’t that you didn’t have answers — it was that you felt alone?In this episode of God’s Promises, we focus on one of the most repeated and most needed promises in Scripture: God’s promise of presence. From Joshua standing at the edge of the unknown to Jesus’ final words to His disciples, God consistently promises not explanations, not ease, but Himself.Did you know, astronauts aren’t kept from loneliness by coming home early but by staying connected where they are — we explore what it really means when God says, “I will be with you.” This promise doesn’t remove fear or uncertainty, but it changes how we walk through them.We'd love to hear from you -- email us at [email protected]

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    God's Promises - Abraham | Genesis 12-21

    Send us Fan MailEpisode 2: God’s Promise to AbrahamWhat happens when God makes a promise… and then asks you to wait?In this episode of God’s Promises, we turn to the story of Abraham and the promise of Isaac — a promise that took decades to fulfill.  God spoke clearly, repeated His word, and never changed His mind — even when time passed, faith wavered, and human impatience complicated the process.In this episode, we explore:Why God’s promises are not canceled by time or delayHow Abraham and Sarah rushed the promise instead of waitingWhy God allowed the fulfillment to become humanly impossibleWhat it means to trust God’s word when nothing seems to be changingIf you’re waiting on something God has spoken… this episode is for you.We'd love to hear from you -- email us at [email protected]

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    God's Promises - The Bow | Genesis 9

    Send us Fan MailWhat happens after the storm has passed?In this first episode of our new series, God’s Promises, we begin where Scripture begins again — not with excitement or certainty, but with mercy.  After the floodwaters recede, Noah steps into a quiet, broken world. And it’s there — after judgment, after loss, after survival — that God makes one of His most foundational promises.The rainbow covenant is not a promise that storms will never come again. It’s a promise of restraint. A declaration that God will not abandon His creation, even knowing humanity is still broken. It’s a promise God makes not because people improved — but because He chose mercy.In this episode, we explore:Why God’s promises often come after the storm, not before itWhat the rainbow really represents in ScriptureHow God binds Himself to faithfulness, even when the world isn’t fixedWhy this promise still matters as we step into a new seasonWe’ll also leave you with practical challenges for the week — simple ways to recognize God’s mercy, practice restraint, and trust Him in the quiet spaces between what was and what’s next.If you’re standing on the other side of something hard.  If you’re grateful to have made it through, but unsure what comes next…This promise is for you.Take your shoes off.  You’re standing on holy ground.We'd love to hear from you -- email us at [email protected]

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    God's Miracle - Jesus

    Send us Fan MailWe’ve walked through miracles of healing, restoration, provision, and resurrection but every miracle we’ve studied traces back to one holy moment: the birth of Jesus.In this final episode of Shoes Off, Ray and Isaac look at the manger to reflect on the miracle behind all miracles.  This is not a work Jesus performed, it is a miracle God performed for the world.  The infinite stepped into the finite.  Eternity entered time.  The Word became flesh.Jesus wasn’t just away in a manger — He was THE way in the manger."The Way In A Manager" is an original song written by Ray Slavens.We'd love to hear from you -- email us at [email protected]

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    Jesus' Miracles - A Healing Touch | Mark 5:25-34 (ft. Rylan Slavens)

    Send us Fan MailThis week on Shoes Off, we step into one of the most known miracles in Scripture — the healing of the woman with the issue of blood.  For twelve long years, she suffered physically, financially, socially, and spiritually.  She tried everything, spent everything, and instead of getting better… she grew worse.But desperation led her to Jesus and faith pushed her through the crowd.In this episode, Ray and Isaac (with guest Rylan) unpack the incredible moment when she reached out from behind Jesus, touched the hem of His garment, and was instantly healed. This miracle reminds us that Jesus meets us in our desperation, honors even trembling faith, removes shame, restores identity, and calls us His own.We'd love to hear from you -- email us at [email protected]

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    Jesus' Miracles - Raising the Widow's Son | Luke 7:11-17

    Send us Fan MailThis week on Shoes Off, we step into the miracle where Jesus stops a funeral procession and raises a widow’s only son from the dead.Two crowds meet at the city gate of Nain: one carrying death… and One carrying life.  And when Jesus sees the grieving mother, everything changes.In this episode, we explore:The significance of Jesus seeing the widow before she ever spokeHow compassion, not request, initiated resurrectionWhy touching the funeral bier reveals His authority over deathThe beauty of the phrase: “He gave him back to his mother”How this miracle foreshadows the resurrection of ChristWhat looked like the end… became the beginning of a miracle.We'd love to hear from you -- email us at [email protected]

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    Jesus' Miracles - Healing the Paralytic | Mark 2:1-12

    Send us Fan MailFaith didn’t wait for an open door — it made one.In this week’s episode of Shoes Off, we step into a crowded house in Capernaum where four determined friends tear through a roof just to get their paralyzed friend to Jesus. What unfolds is one of the most vivid demonstrations of bold faith, deep community, divine authority, and life-changing transformation in the Gospels.Jesus doesn’t start with what the man wants.  He starts with what the man needs. Before healing the body, He heals the heart. Before restoring strength, He restores identity. And when the man finally stands, Jesus tells him to take up his bed  and walk home carrying a testimony the whole town could see.Because when Jesus moves, you never leave the same way you came in!We'd love to hear from you -- email us at [email protected]

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    Jesus' Miracles - Feeding the 5000 | John 6 (ft. Chris Murray)

    Send us Fan MailIn one of Jesus’ most familiar miracles, a small boy’s simple lunch of just five loaves and two fish becomes a supernatural abundance.  More than 5,000 people are fed, and twelve baskets overflow with leftovers.  But underneath the miracle is a powerful truth for every believer:  Jesus doesn’t ask for what we don’t have — only what we do have.  And when we surrender our “not-enough” into His hands, He transforms it into more than enough.In this episode of Shoes Off, Ray, Isaac, and our special guest Chris Murray explore the deeper meaning behind this miracle, not just as a moment of provision, but as a lesson in surrender, obedience, and trust.  Chris brings practical insight, real-life perspective, and thoughtful encouragement as we unpack what it means to offer God the small things in our lives and watch Him multiply them.If Jesus could use five loaves and two fish… how much more can He do with what you already have?We'd love to hear from you -- email us at [email protected]

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    Jesus' Miracles - The Fish with a Coin | Matthew 17:24-27

    Send us Fan MailIn one of Jesus’ often forgotten miracles, a simple question about the temple tax becomes a profound lesson in humility and obedience.  When confronted about paying a tax He did not owe, Jesus chooses peace over pride.  Not because He must, but because He loves.Then He sends Peter to catch a fish with a coin in its mouth.  It's a picture that provision that follows obedience.In this episode of Shoes Off, we explore:Why Jesus paid a tax He didn’t oweHow humility can speak louder than being rightWhat this miracle reveals about obedience before provisionHow God’s care is precise, personal, and perfectly timedWe'd love to hear from you -- email us at [email protected]

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    Jesus' Miracles - The Man with Dropsy

    Send us Fan MailIn Luke 14:1–6, Jesus is invited to dine at the home of a powerful Pharisee on the Sabbath but it’s not a friendly invitation.  It’s a setup.  A man suffering from dropsy is placed before Him, and all eyes are watching.When Jesus asks, “Is it lawful to heal on the Sabbath?”, the room falls silent. He’s not questioning the Law.  He’s confronting how man’s tradition has buried God’s truth.In this episode of Shoes Off, we explore how Jesus turned a moment of scrutiny into a moment of mercy.  Through His actions, He reminds us that the Sabbath was never about restriction, it was about restoration.“The Sabbath isn’t about control. It’s about compassion. When mercy moves, God’s truth is revealed.”We'd love to hear from you -- email us at [email protected]

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    Jesus' Miracles - The Ten Lepers | Luke 17

    Send us Fan MailAs Jesus traveled along the border between Galilee and Samaria, ten lepers cried out for mercy, and He healed them all.  But only one turned back.In this episode of Shoes Off, Ray and Isaac step into Luke 17:11–19 and discover that this miracle isn’t just about healing.  Why did only one return to give thanks?  Join us as we explore:The Jewish law requiring priests to declare lepers clean (Leviticus 13–14)The faith it took to walk in obedience before seeing the miracleThe power of gratitude that turns healing into worshipAnd the surprising truth that sometimes, the outsider sees grace most clearlyThis story challenges us to live like the one who came back...to notice, to return, and to give thanks.We'd love to hear from you.  Email us at [email protected]'d love to hear from you -- email us at [email protected]

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    Jesus' Miracles - Lazarus | John 11

    Send us Fan MailIn this powerful episode, Ray & Isaac dive into one of the most dramatic and meaningful miracles of Jesus: the raising of Lazarus. Found only in the Gospel of John, this miracle goes beyond a demonstration of power — it reveals the heart of God, the perfect timing of Jesus, and the life-changing hope He brings.Why did Jesus wait two extra days before responding to the news of His friend’s death? How does His delay lead to the ultimate revelation of God’s glory? In this episode, we’ll explore the divine timing behind Lazarus’ resurrection and reflect on how Jesus' words, "I am the resurrection and the life," are still a powerful call to us today.This story is not just about a dead man rising; it’s about the resurrection power that lives in Jesus — and in us.We'd love to hear from you via email as well, write us at [email protected]'d love to hear from you -- email us at [email protected]

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    The Assurance | Romans 8:5-39

    Send us Fan MailWhat can stand against us when God is for us? In the final episode of this series, Ray and Isaac unpack one of the most powerful passages in all of Scripture — Romans 8:31–39 — where Paul declares that nothing can separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus.In this episode, you’ll hear:Why Paul’s words carry so much weight after all his struggles and hardships.How Scripture—from Elisha’s heavenly army to the Psalms—reminds us that God is for us.Real-life illustrations of divine protection, perseverance, and confidence in God’s unbreakable love.How this truth becomes the foundation for our daily assurance and courage to keep walking by faith.Whether you’re in a storm, a season of doubt, or simply need reminding that you’re never alone, this episode will anchor your heart in one unshakable truth — nothing can separate you from His love.🎧 Take your Shoes Off, settle in, and rest in the assurance that God’s love holds firm — always.We'd love to hear from you -- email us at [email protected]

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    The Freedom | Romans 8:1-4

    Send us Fan MailWe’d love to hear from you: email us at [email protected] you ever felt like you’ll never measure up spiritually — like your failures define you?  In Romans 7, Paul wrestled with that same tension: “The good I want to do, I don’t do.”  But as we turn the page to Romans 8, Paul opens with one of the most freeing truths in all of Scripture:“There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”In this episode of Shoes Off, Ray and Isaac explore what it really means to live free from guilt, shame, and spiritual defeat. Together, they unpack:Why believers can live confidently in grace, not under guilt.Real-life illustrations that show how grace changes everything — from courtroom verdicts to second chances.Whether you’ve been carrying regret, shame, or spiritual exhaustion, this episode is your reminder that the case is closed — the Judge has declared you free.🎧 Take your Shoes Off, open your heart, and rest in the truth of Romans 8:1 — there is no condemnation for those in Christ Jesus.We'd love to hear from you -- email us at [email protected]

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    The Deliverance | Romans 7:21–25 (ft. Brandy Slavens)

    Send us Fan MailHave you ever felt like your Christian walk is a constant tug-of-war?  One moment you want to do what’s right, the next you feel pulled back by old habits, distractions, and the pressures of the world. You’re not alone—Paul himself described this exact battle in Romans 7.In this week’s episode of Shoes Off, Ray and Isaac are joined by special guest Brandy Slavens, a respected leader in the social work field who has dedicated her life to helping teens and families overcome the grip of addiction and inner struggles.  Brandy brings a unique Christian perspective on what “the struggle” looks like in real life, from single moms to addicts, and how deliverance is possible through Christ.🎙️ Together, we’ll unpack Paul’s words:Why even the most faithful believers wrestle with sin.How modern distractions make the struggle real today.What deliverance can look like for those caught between faith and the world.This episode is raw, honest, and filled with hope.  Whether you’ve been battling guilt, addiction, or just the quiet struggles no one else sees, this conversation will remind you: you’re not fighting alone, and Christ has already secured the victory.👉 Tune in, take your Shoes Off, and step onto holy ground with us.We'd love to hear from you -- email us at [email protected]

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    The Struggle | Romans 7:7-20

    Send us Fan MailWhy do we so often do the very things we don’t want to do?  In Romans 7, the Apostle Paul opens up about one of the most relatable battles of the Christian life — the struggle between our desire to follow God and the pull of sin (the tug-of-war).In this episode of Shoes Off, Ray and Isaac unpack Paul’s raw honesty and explore:Why the law reveals our sin but cannot save usHow sin deceives and entangles us, promising life but delivering deathWhat modern surveys reveal Christians struggle with todayWhy confession and honesty are the first steps toward freedomWith biblical insight, personal illustrations, and practical challenges, this conversation reminds us that the struggle is real—but so is God’s grace.🎧 Join us as we take off our shoes, open the Word, and step into the reality of The Struggle.We'd love to hear from you -- email us at [email protected]

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    Faith in the Fire | Daniel 3:8-30

    Send us Fan MailWhat happens when standing firm in your faith puts everything on the line?  In Daniel 3, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego faced the ultimate test: bow down to a golden image or be thrown into a blazing furnace. Their response was bold—“Our God is able to deliver us, but even if He does not, we will not bow.”In this episode of Shoes Off, Ray and Isaac explore:The courage to resist cultural pressure, even when it’s costlyWhy faith isn’t just about rescue, but about trust “even if not”God’s presence in the fire—the fourth man who never leaves usHow bold faith becomes a testimony to the watching world🎧 Join us as we step into the fire and discover that true courage is not avoiding trials—it’s trusting God in the middle of them.We'd love to hear from you -- email us at [email protected]

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    Walking with Courage | Matthew 14:22-33

    Send us Fan MailFear, storms, and sinking faith.  Peter’s story on the Sea of Galilee is more than a miracle; it’s a picture of courage and trust in Jesus. In this episode of Shoes Off, Ray and Isaac dive into Matthew 14:22–33, walking verse by verse through the powerful moment when Peter stepped out of the boat and onto the waves.We’ll explore:Why Jesus sometimes leads us into storms to grow our faithHow Peter’s courage started with Jesus’ commandThe lesson of keeping our eyes fixed on Christ, not the chaosWhat this story reveals about Jesus’ power and presence in our struggles🎧 Join us as we step out of the boat and discover that courage isn’t the absence of fear, it’s confidence in the One who holds us up.We'd love to hear from you -- email us at [email protected]

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    Ordinary Places, Extraordinary God | Exodus 3:1-5 KJV

    Send us Fan MailMoses wasn’t looking for a divine encounter when he was tending sheep in the wilderness. Yet, God appeared in a burning bush and turned an ordinary spot into holy ground. In this episode, Ray and Isaac explore Exodus 3:1–5 and other biblical stories where God meets people in unexpected, everyday places.We’ll unpack:How God transforms the ordinary into extraordinary moments of calling The backstory of Moses’ journey from prince of Egypt to shepherd in Midian Modern-day reminders of God’s presence in our daily livesYou’ll also hear practical challenges to help you see your routines and spaces as places where God is present and speaking.🎧 Join us as we step out of the ordinary and recognize God’s presence all around us.We'd love to hear from you -- email us at [email protected]

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    Stepping Into Faith | Joshua 5:13-15

    Send us Fan MailEpisode 1: Stepping into Faith Joshua stands at the edge of Jericho, facing impossible walls and overwhelming responsibility. But instead of preparing for battle with strategy and strength, he falls on his face in worship. In this episode, Ray and Isaac explore Joshua 5:13–15 and the powerful lesson of worship before warfare—faith starts not with weapons or plans, but with God’s presence.We’ll dive into:Why God often reveals Himself after obedience and worshipThe symbolism of Joshua removing his sandalsHow Christ appears as the Commander of the Lord’s armyModern parallels where God is tearing down “walls” todayPractical challenges this week will help you step into faith, align with God’s plan, and experience His presence right where you are.🎧 Subscribe, share, and join us on this journey as we take off what weighs us down and step onto holy ground.We'd love to hear from you -- email us at [email protected]

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    Welcome to the Shoes Off Podcast: Trailer

    Send us Fan MailWelcome to Shoes Off! This short trailer introduces our podcast and what you can expect each week.We’re a father–son duo who believe that faith grows best when we pause, take off what weighs us down, and step onto holy ground. Each 15–20 minute episode will bring you scripture, reflection, and a practical weekly challenge designed to help you walk closer with Christ in your everyday life.Why “Shoes Off”?In Exodus 3, God told Moses to remove his sandals because he was standing on holy ground.And you’ve probably heard the phrase, “that sermon stepped on my toes.” God’s Word comforts us—but it also challenges us to grow.Join us each week as we share encouragement, stories, and God’s truth in a way that’s both practical and authentic.👉 Subscribe now so you don’t miss our upcoming episodes: Stepping into Faith, Coming to Holy Ground, Walking with Courage, and Growing in Faithfulness.We'd love to hear from you -- email us at [email protected]

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ABOUT THIS SHOW

Shoes Off is a weekly Christian podcast designed for your commute, morning coffee, or quiet break.  Each episode combines scripture, reflection, and a practical weekly challenge that you can carry into everyday life. The name comes from two powerful images: Moses removing his shoes to meet God on holy ground, and the phrase “that sermon stepped on my toes”—a reminder that God’s word both comforts and challenges us to grow. Through relatable stories, timely illustrations, and biblical truth, Shoes Off helps you pause, prepare your heart, and walk closer with Christ each week. Join us as we take our shoes off—because growth begins on holy ground. Email us at [email protected]

HOSTED BY

Ray Slavens, Isaac Slavens

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