The Rolling Thunder Podcast

In this episode of First Light, Chuck talks about the importance of making plans while trusting God with the path ahead. Preparation is part of wisdom, and taking the right precautions when stepping into the future helps us walk with confidence and clarity. While we can't control every outcome, being thoughtful, patient, and intentional in our planning allows us to move forward responsibly. Chuck reminds us that faith and preparation go hand in hand, we do our part by planning carefully, and we trust the Lord to guide our steps, open the right doors, and carry us where we're meant to be.

In this episode of First Light 27, Chuck dives into something we all wrestle with — people. Our purpose isn't complicated, but it is challenging: love others, be kind to everyone, and lead with patience even when it's not returned. In a world that's quick to judge and quicker to react, we're called to slow down and let love surround the way we treat people. The Bible reminds us in 1 Corinthians 13:4–7 that love is patient and kind. It doesn't envy, it doesn't boast, it isn't proud. That kind of love changes how we handle conflict, how we speak, and how we show up daily. And in John 13:35, we're told that people will know we belong to Him by the way we love one another. At the end of the day, our faith isn't just something we talk about. It's something people should feel when they're around us. Patience in frustration. Kindness in disagreement. Grace when it's undeserved. People matter. And loving them well is part of the purpose we were created for.

Fresh off his Grand Nationals win in Nashville, Hunter Wallis joins Spence and Drake on the phone — along with Josh Grossenbacher — to really break down the competition. They dive deep into the details of Grand Nationals: the preparation, the pressure on stage, how the routines came together, and what it takes to win at that level. From the mental side of competing to the small adjustments that make a big difference, this episode gives an inside look at what separates good from great. With turkey season right around the corner, it's a strong conversation about momentum, focus, and carrying that competitive edge from the stage into the spring woods.

Time has a way of revealing what really matters. In this episode, Chuck reflects on how becoming a good shepherd doesn't happen overnight. It takes patience, consistency, and a willingness to show up day after day—even when progress feels slow. So the question becomes: if it takes us this long to learn, to grow, and to lead well… does the Lord already know that? And if He does, does He still desire the relationship first? Maybe the waiting, the learning, and the slow shaping of who we are isn't a delay at all. Maybe it's the process He uses to draw us closer to Him. Not rushing the outcome, but building the relationship along the way. Because sometimes the time it takes is exactly the point.

First Light Ep. 25 — Just Click Follow Trust doesn't come natural, especially when you can't see where the path leads. In this episode, Chuck talks about how following the Lord often feels like stepping into the unknown, where logic, comfort, and control all want to push back. But faith was never meant to feel safe; it was meant to be obedient. "Just click follow" sounds simple, but living it out means surrendering the need to understand every step before you take it. Sometimes what's right won't feel right at first. Sometimes the best direction is the one you wouldn't have chosen on your own. Learning to trust Him is learning to move before you have all the answers.

In this episode of First Light, Chuck takes a hard look at the difference between what we want and what we truly need. It's easy to chase the things we think will satisfy us, only to find they leave us wanting more. Chuck ties this struggle back to the Lord, reminding us that God already knows our needs, often better than we do. He provides exactly what we're meant to have, right on time. Another thoughtful and grounding episode of First Light that challenges us to trust Him and realign our hearts with what truly matters.

In this episode of First Light, Chuck talks about fear and what it feels like, where it shows up, and how it can either stop us or shape us. Through personal stories of moments when he was genuinely scared but chose to do the right thing anyway, Chuck reminds us that fear isn't always something to avoid—it's often something to walk through with faith. He ties those experiences back to Scripture and the reminder found in Psalm 27:1: "The Lord is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life—of whom shall I be afraid?" A quiet encouragement to trust God, even when fear is loud.

In this episode of First Light, Chuck reflects on the nature of sheep and their relationship with a shepherd. Sheep don't always understand what the shepherd is doing, and because of that, they often resist—confusing guidance for restriction and protection for loss. Chuck connects this truth to our own lives. When God's direction doesn't line up with what we want, it can feel disappointing or even wrong. But often, that feeling isn't because His plan is bad—it's because we don't yet understand what's best for us. Not What I Wanted is a reminder that trust is built in the unknown, and that the Shepherd sees the full picture even when we don't.

In this episode of First Light, Chuck reflects on the nature of sheep—how they begin wary, unsure, and cautious of everything around them. Over time, they learn to recognize and trust their shepherd, understanding that he leads them with purpose and care. In the same way, we often struggle to see what's ahead in our own lives. We don't always understand God's plan, and uncertainty can make us hesitant to follow. But faith calls us to trust the Shepherd, even when the path isn't clear, knowing He leads us where we need to go.

Chuck Halford reflects on Christmas and the idea of anticipation. He shares a simple reminder from childhood—sneaking a look at your gifts never compares to the joy of the surprise. In the same way, we don't always see how the Lord is working in our lives. Sometimes the waiting, the unknown, and the trust are part of the gift itself. This episode is a reminder to lean into faith, trust God's timing, and embrace the beauty of not always knowing what's coming next. "For we walk by faith, not by sight." — 2 Corinthians 5:7

In this week's episode, Chuck reflects on living with a heart of gratitude — not just when life falls into place, but in every moment God gives us. As we move through the holidays and approach Christmas, it's easy to get distracted by plans, gifts, and the rush of the season. Chuck reminds us that true thankfulness isn't tied to circumstances, but to recognizing God's goodness in every part of our lives. Whether it's family, fellowship, quiet mornings, or the challenges that teach us, we're invited to give thanks in all things — because every blessing comes from Him.   "Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you." — 1 Thessalonians 5:18

This week Chuck turns our eyes toward Advent — a season built on anticipation. Christmas didn't happen overnight… God's people waited generations for the promised Savior. And even now, the best things in life are formed in the seasons where we learn to wait well. Chuck reminds us that waiting isn't a punishment or a pause — it's part of God's process. Just like Christmas came in God's perfect timing, the blessings, answers, and direction we're praying for will too. Waiting stretches our faith, teaches patience, and reminds us that God is writing a story far better than anything we could force on our own. "But when the fullness of time had come, God sent forth His Son…" – Galatians 4:4  

It's opening weekend in Arkansas, and everything moves fast. Gear gets tossed in the boat, trucks get loaded in a hurry, and sooner or later somebody realizes they forgot something important. Chuck uses that moment we all know too well to dig into something deeper—how quick decisions, rushed mornings, and overlooked details mirror the way we sometimes move through life as believers. In this episode, he reminds us that the Lord doesn't just guide our steps, He places the right desires in our hearts when we slow down long enough to look to Him. What we forget, how we respond, and the choices we make in the moment reveal exactly where our focus is—and where it should be. "In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths." — Proverbs 3:6

First Light Ep. 16 — Kingdom Living In this episode, Chuck Halford wraps up the six responses that are often referred to as the six steps for living as a believer. He reminds us that these aren't just steps to follow, but natural responses to God that become evident in the life of every believer. Chuck encourages us to look for these moments in our everyday lives, to nurture them, and to let them grow as we trust in God and His promises. "But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you." — Matthew 6:33 "As you therefore have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him." — Colossians 2:6

In this episode of the Rolling Thunder Podcast, Spence sits down with Ducks Unlimited conservationist David Schuessler and longtime waterfowler Jimbo Robinson to crack open DU's "Into the Vault" — the organization's premier auction featuring rare and one-of-a-kind items. Together they dive into how the event fuels DU's mission to conserve wetlands and waterfowl habitat, what makes this year's lineup of firearms, artwork, and outdoor experiences stand out, and why "Into the Vault" has become a must-watch moment for hunters and collectors alike.    

In this episode, Chuck continues walking through his six responses to God — a simple but powerful framework that every believer can follow. Today, he talks about obedience — what it really means to follow God's will even when it's not easy, and how true faith shows itself through action. Another step forward in faith, humility, and trust.

In this episode, Chuck Halford continues on his six responses to God that everyone can follow, focusing on one of the hardest steps for most of us — forgiveness. Whether it's forgiving others or learning to forgive ourselves, true peace can't begin until we let go of the weight we carry. Drawing from scripture and real-life experiences, Chuck reminds us that forgiveness isn't a feeling — it's obedience. "Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you." – Ephesians 4:32

Following last week's message on Humility, Chuck Halford continues his walk through the six responses to God — this time focusing on repentance. Building on the idea that humility opens the door to seeing our need for God, Chuck explains that repentance is what moves us through it. It's not just about feeling sorry, but about real change — turning away from sin and choosing to walk in obedience. With scripture and real-life perspective, Chuck reminds us that repentance is a gift that brings restoration, peace, and a renewed closeness with the Lord. "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." — 1 John 1:9

In this episode, Chuck Halford continues the six responses to God—following last week's focus on honesty—with a lesson on humility. He reminds us that humility is more than modesty; it's the doorway to repentance, forgiveness, obedience, and true kingdom living. Chuck explains how pride blinds us to God's grace, while humility opens our hearts to His correction and mercy. By laying down self-reliance, we make room for renewal and strength that only the Lord can provide. Key Verses: "Humble yourselves before the Lord, and He will lift you up." — James 4:10 "For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted." — Luke 14:11 "With the humble is wisdom." — Proverbs 11:2 Real freedom begins when we stop trying to be in control and simply bow before God.

In this episode of First Light, Chuck Halford introduces the six responses to God that every believer can follow—beginning with honesty. He explains how true freedom starts when we're willing to be truthful with ourselves, with others, and with God. Honesty opens the door for the next steps: humility, repentance, forgiveness, obedience, and kingdom living. "Whoever conceals their sins does not prosper, but the one who confesses and renounces them finds mercy." — Proverbs 28:13