Wake Up, Look Up

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach unpacks how today’s media ecosystem often profits by keeping people afraid, angry, and constantly engaged. He challenges listeners to guard their hearts, pay attention to what they’re consuming, and recognize how fear shapes the way we live and see the world. Pastor Zach reminds us that our peace isn’t found in headlines or algorithms, but in the unchanging truth of the gospel.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach reflects on the state of American politics and asks whether our culture has settled for familiar names instead of fresh ideas. He challenges listeners to think beyond party loyalty and consider the importance of both character and competence in leadership. Pastor Zach reminds us that wise leadership matters, and as Christians, how we think about those in authority should be shaped by biblical wisdom.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach explores how AI conversations are increasingly being used in criminal investigations and what that means for privacy in a digital world. He unpacks the spiritual reality that nothing is truly hidden, pointing listeners to Jesus’ words about what is done in secret eventually coming to light. Pastor Zach challenges us to live with integrity, remembering that God sees not only our public lives, but our private ones too.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach unpacks a recent story involving students being taken to political rallies and what it reveals about worldview, education, and cultural influence. He challenges the idea of neutrality in the classroom and encourages parents to stay engaged in how their children are being shaped. Pastor Zach reminds listeners that the responsibility of spiritual and moral formation begins at home.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach unpacks a powerful true story of a former prosecutor who spent years trying to make things right after realizing he had pursued justice for the wrong reasons. Through this story and the example of Zacchaeus, he explores the weight–and freedom–that comes with admitting when we are wrong. The episode challenges listeners to consider where God may be calling them to repentance, reconciliation, and restored relationships.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach explores a cultural critique, arguing that older generations are unfairly holding disproportionate wealth and influence in society. He unpacks the tension between entitlement and responsibility, challenging the idea that influence should be redistributed rather than earned. The episode ultimately points listeners back to a biblical view of diligence, humility, and learning across generations.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach explores the rising impact of sports gambling and how it is reshaping athletes, competition, and culture in ways many of us overlook. He uses a recent story of a college quarterback’s gambling struggle to examine how addiction, incentives, and mass participation are affecting both individuals and the sports we love. The episode challenges listeners to consider not just personal freedom, but the broader consequences of a culture driven by profit and appetite.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach explores how financial secrecy in marriage can quietly erode trust and lead to deep relational damage. Drawing from cultural trends and the biblical teaching that marriage makes two people “one flesh,” he challenges couples to pursue transparency and unity in how they handle money. The episode invites listeners to examine the health of their own relationships and consider where hidden habits may be putting unity at risk.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach explores how quickly we can begin to rationalize behavior when we believe the ends justify the means. He connects a current cultural conversation about moral justification with the biblical warning that “everyone did what was right in their own eyes” in the book of Judges. The episode challenges us to let God’s Word–not our reasoning–define what is right and wrong, and to consider where rationalization may already be shaping our own lives.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach challenges the idea that the “good old days” are worth chasing, unpacking a cultural trend of nostalgia and disillusionment. He explains how the story of Scripture points to a future shaped by God’s renewal and redemption. This episode invites listeners to let go of idealized pasts and instead pursue the hope found in what God is building ahead.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach examines a public scandal to explore why accountability is essential in confronting sin. He explains how unchecked patterns of behavior grow over time, ultimately leading to destruction when no one steps in to challenge them. This episode calls listeners to pursue honest, grace-filled accountability in their relationships before small compromises become something far worse.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach unpacks a cultural misunderstanding of what it truly means to be sorry, using a recent public apology as a case study. He contrasts surface-level repentance with the kind that produces real change, emphasizing that true repentance requires surrendering control and taking responsibility. This episode challenges listeners to examine their own apologies and consider whether they reflect genuine transformation or just empty words.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach wrestles with a viral story that raises questions about truth, deception, and the growing cynicism in our culture. Rather than landing on a clear answer, he turns the lens inward, exploring how our own sin and brokenness shape the way we view others. This episode invites listeners to confront their cynicism and consider how surrendering to Jesus can restore a belief in goodness.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach explores the growing corruption in Congress and how political loyalty has overtaken personal character. He unpacks how voters have contributed to this shift by prioritizing winning over integrity, leading to leaders whose actions reflect that compromise. This episode challenges listeners to reclaim the importance of character in leadership and consider how their own choices can shape the future.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach challenges listeners to confront how dependent they’ve become on their phones, pointing to tools like the “brick” device as a wake-up call. He connects this to Scripture, reminding us that anything that masters us competes with Jesus for our attention and devotion. Ultimately, he urges listeners to step away, even temporarily, to recognize that dependence and make room for a deeper relationship with God.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach explores the importance of accountability and how its absence can lead to complacency and missed purpose. Using a real-world example, he challenges listeners to consider whether they welcome correction or avoid it. The episode calls believers to pursue growth through discipline, inviting others to speak truth into their lives for the sake of lasting impact.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach explores how easily we can create personal narratives that cast ourselves as the hero or victim in every situation. He challenges listeners to confront the possibility that their own perspective may be shaped by self-deception rather than truth. The episode encourages honest self-reflection and invites believers to pursue healing through confession, accountability, and the transforming work of Jesus.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach addresses the danger of using God’s name to justify political or military actions. He unpacks why claiming divine authority for human decisions–especially in matters of war–crosses a serious biblical line. The episode calls believers to approach faith and public life with humility, ensuring they speak carefully about what God has and has not said.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach explores the growing normalization of cannabis use and what emerging research reveals about its effects on the brain. He challenges the narrative that marijuana is harmless, pointing to concerns around addiction, mental health, and cognitive decline. The episode calls Christians to pursue lives marked by self-control and freedom in Christ, while also considering how these choices impact the well-being of others.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach addresses a recent controversy involving President Trump using imagery that many Christians view as blasphemous. He challenges believers not to excuse or defend actions that diminish the glory and uniqueness of Jesus, regardless of political alignment. The episode calls listeners to remain grounded in biblical truth, holding their allegiance to Christ above any cultural or political loyalty.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach challenges listeners to consider whether technology is quietly enabling them to work on autopilot instead of fully engaging in what God has called them to do. Using the example of teacher Dylan Cain, he highlights how removing distractions led to greater effort, connection, and real impact. He ultimately calls Christians to work wholeheartedly for the Lord, resisting the temptation to outsource their calling and instead pursuing excellence that leads to true flourishing.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach addresses the rise of death threats toward athletes like Nolan Jones tied to the growth of sports gambling. He challenges listeners to consider the deeper consequences of gambling, arguing that its “fruit” reveals a destructive and unloving impact on individuals and society. Ultimately, he calls Christians to reject participation in it and instead pursue a life marked by love for God and neighbor.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach challenges listeners to think wisely about their future in a rapidly changing world shaped by AI. Drawing on a cultural conversation about job security, he encourages a mindset that adapts and adds lasting value rather than relying on what can easily be replaced. Ultimately, he reminds us that biblical wisdom means paying attention, growing our skills, and making thoughtful decisions while trusting in God’s sovereignty.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach explores the tension between loving someone and confronting them when they’re caught in sin. Using a recent controversy involving Tiger Woods, he points to Galatians 6:1 to show that Christians are called to step in, not stay silent, with the goal of restoration. He emphasizes that true biblical confrontation is both honest and gentle–driven by love, not judgment, and aimed at helping others find freedom in Christ.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach explores a real-life story that raises important questions about the role of AI and technology in our world. He reflects on the risks of over-reliance on systems that lack human judgment, especially when it comes to justice and fairness. Grounded in Scripture, Pastor Zach challenges listeners to think wisely about how technology should be used. This episode encourages believers to pursue truth, responsibility, and care for others in an increasingly digital age.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach explores cultural trends across generations and how each one tends to push against the last. He reflects on the instability of building identity and values on shifting cultural ideals. Pointing to the words of Jesus, Pastor Zach challenges listeners to build their lives on a lasting foundation rather than temporary trends. This episode encourages families to pursue a faith that endures and shapes the next generation.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach responds to a global news story and examines the idea of moral relativism in today’s culture. He challenges the belief that all worldviews are equally true, pointing to the reality of good and evil and the need for objective truth. Grounded in Scripture, Pastor Zach calls Christians to think clearly, discern wisely, and hold to what is truly good. This episode encourages believers to engage culture with both compassion and conviction.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach reflects on the No Kings protest and challenges how we engage with ideas in today’s world. He explores the difference between emotional reactions and thoughtful, truth-centered conversations. Drawing from Scripture, he encourages believers to test everything, think critically, and hold fast to what is good. This episode is a call to elevate the conversation with clarity, humility, and conviction.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach explores a recent NBA controversy and what it reveals about culture, belief, and authority. He unpacks how organizations can begin to function like religions when they shape moral views and demand alignment. Drawing from Scripture, Pastor Zach challenges listeners to consider where ultimate truth and authority come from. This conversation invites Christians to think carefully about faith, conviction, and how to live with integrity in today’s world.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach reflects on a cultural shift that celebrates participation over perseverance. Using a recent marathon decision as an example, he asks a deeper question: what happens when we stop valuing finishing what we start? Scripture reminds us that diligence matters. The challenge is clear: don’t settle for starting strong, commit to finishing well.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach reflects on a tragic story to ask a difficult question: what responsibility do fathers carry? While no parent is perfect, Scripture makes it clear that fathers are called to lead, guide, and take ownership in the home. The challenge is direct—don’t disengage. Step in, lead well, and take responsibility for what God has entrusted to you.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach reflects on the decline of public generosity among the wealthy to ask a deeper question: when is generosity truly genuine? Jesus teaches that real generosity isn’t about recognition, but about the heart. The challenge is simple: give in a way that seeks to bless others, not elevate yourself.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach addresses the rise of sports gambling and its devastating impact on individuals and families. What may seem like harmless entertainment can quickly become an addiction, leading to real loss and broken lives. Scripture calls us to care, not just about ourselves, but about others. The challenge is urgent: don’t ignore what’s destructive. Step in, speak up, and seek help before it’s too late.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Zach explores the rise of weight-loss drugs and asks a deeper question: does willpower still matter? While new solutions may promise faster results, Scripture reminds us that discipline plays a vital role in growth. The challenge is simple—don’t trade long-term formation for short-term shortcuts. A life shaped by discipline is a life that honors God.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Zach explores a disturbing medical mystery to ask a deeper question: what does spiritual warfare look like today? While modern science explains much, it doesn’t explain everything. Scripture reminds us that not every struggle is purely physical—some battles are spiritual. The challenge is clear: don’t limit your perspective. Look to God for answers beyond what the world can explain.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Zach explores a cultural conversation about coffee and individualism, and what it reveals about our hearts. While personal preferences aren’t the problem, a life centered entirely on ourselves is. Jesus calls his followers to something different: a life of self-denial and service. The challenge is simple: enjoy your preferences, but don’t let them define you. In God’s kingdom, it’s not about us.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Zach reflects on the growing trend of using AI to handle difficult conversations. While tools like ChatGPT can help us find the right words, he reminds us of a deeper truth: we are still responsible for every message we send. Jesus teaches that our words matter, and they reveal our hearts. The challenge is clear—don’t just generate and send. Slow down, reflect, and communicate in a way that is truthful, thoughtful, and rooted in love.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Zach explores the shift in education from theory to practical life skills and what that reveals about discipleship. While many Christians equate growth with theological knowledge, Scripture points to something deeper: a life shaped by surrender to Jesus. The challenge is clear: don’t just know more about God, live in a way that reflects him in every area of your life.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach reflects on the fall of yet another cultural hero and wrestles with a deeper question: why do the people we admire so often let us down? As more hidden sins come to light, Scripture reminds us not to place our hope in flawed human leaders. The truth is sobering but freeing; there is only one true hero. The challenge is clear: don’t anchor your faith in people, but in Jesus, who never fails.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach reflects on a public family conflict involving David and Victoria Beckham and their son, using it to highlight a growing reality–family estrangement is increasingly common. He explains that money, fame, or success can’t fix broken relationships because the real issue is often selfishness. Pointing to Philippians 2:3, Pastor Zach encourages listeners to approach relationships with humility, focusing on what they can give rather than what they can gain. When our security comes from Christ’s love, we’re freed to serve, forgive, and love our families in a healthier way.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach reflects on a recent political commentary and raises a deeper question: are we shaping our faith around our politics, or letting Jesus shape how we think about everything–including politics? He warns against syncretism, where Christians gradually align the gospel with the values of their surrounding culture or political party. Instead, he challenges believers to let Jesus set the agenda, holding together all the issues he cares about–from justice and compassion to truth and righteousness. The call is simple but challenging: follow Christ first, and refuse to reduce him to the spokesperson for any political party.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach reflects on an incredible basketball performance by Bam Adebayo and the teammates who helped make it possible. While the achievement was remarkable, what stood out even more was the team’s willingness to support and celebrate someone else’s moment. Using Romans 12:10, Pastor Zach reminds listeners that the gospel frees us from needing the spotlight. Because our identity is secure in Christ, we can genuinely honor and celebrate the success of others. He challenges listeners to intentionally recognize and affirm the gifts and accomplishments of someone in their life this week.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach highlights the courage of Iran’s women’s national soccer team as they risk retaliation by standing against oppression. He reminds listeners that God’s heart is close to the brokenhearted and that Christians are called to care about injustice and speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves. He challenges believers to let that concern lead them to prayer–asking God to bring freedom, justice, and ultimately the hope of the gospel to places where oppression is strongest.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach reflects on a recent leadership scandal to highlight how easy it is to believe our private compromises will stay hidden. He reminds listeners that God sees every action and often brings hidden things into the light, not to shame us but to lead us toward repentance and restoration. The challenge is simple but urgent: don’t wait to be exposed–choose honesty and come clean before God today.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach explores the rise of artificial intelligence in journalism and asks how Christians can thoughtfully engage with technology in their work. He emphasizes that Christians should consider what must remain distinctly human, how to care for people displaced by AI, and how to bring a biblical worldview into these decisions. Pastor Zach encourages listeners to seek the Spirit’s guidance for wisdom, skill, and excellence in their fields so they can lead responsibly and help others flourish in a technological age.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach explores the challenges Gen Z faces in developing real-world relational skills due to increased online learning and digital dependence. He emphasizes that being relational is part of what it means to be fully human, pointing to Genesis 2:18 and Adam’s need for companionship and support. Pastor Zach encourages both young people and the church to engage in meaningful in-person relationships, helping Gen Z unlock their full potential and live more fully human lives.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach discusses the growing cultural push to redefine family through polyamory and why these ideas are gaining traction in society. He explains the biblical vision of marriage as a God-designed covenant that brings stability, sanctification, and flourishing for individuals and communities. Pastor Zach encourages Christians not just to argue against cultural shifts, but to model strong, faithful marriages that reflect the gospel and honor God.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach explores the booming longevity industry and the promise of living longer through supplements, cold plunges, and other fads. He explains why these trends can’t stop aging or deliver true life. Instead, Pastor Zach points to Jesus as the source of lasting renewal and eternal hope.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach reflects on the escalating conflict involving the U.S., Israel, and Iran, and asks how global chaos can test the strength of our faith. Looking at Jesus’ teaching about building on the rock in Matthew 7, he explains that real stability comes from hearing and obeying Christ, which develops a deeper trust in God over time. Pastor Zach encourages listeners to practice daily obedience so that when the storms of life come, their faith is rooted firmly in God’s promises.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach examines the life and death of Ayatollah Khamenei, highlighting the evil and oppression he caused under the guise of being divinely appointed. He reminds listeners that hell exists as a place of God’s justice, where the wrongs done to victims are acknowledged and righted. Pastor Zach points to Jesus Christ as the ultimate answer for our own sin, offering redemption instead of reckoning for those who turn to him.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!