The Rob Skinner Podcast: Helping You Make This Life Count

Episode Summary In today's episode, Rob explores one of Jesus' most powerful teachings on prayer: believing that God has already answered before you see the results. Too often we pray and instantly doubt, treating our prayers like hopeful wishes rather than declarations of faith. But Jesus shows us a different way. When you pray with belief—real belief—you align your heart with God's will and invite Him to move powerfully in your life. Rob breaks down how to shift from hesitant, uncertain prayers to bold, confident faith that lives as if God's answer is already on the way. What You'll Learn in This Episode Why doubt often creeps in immediately after prayer What Jesus meant when He said, "Believe that you have received it" How faith acts before the evidence arrives A practical picture of faith using the "online order" analogy How to start praying with confidence, boldness, and expectation Key Insight Faith doesn't wait for proof—faith prepares for the promise. When you pray and believe God has already responded, you create space in your life for Him to deliver. Today's Challenge Ask yourself: What am I believing God for right now? Pray about it—and then: Speak with confidence Act in faith Thank God before you see the outcome Live today as if God's answer is already in motion. Scripture of the Day Mark 11:24 — "Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours." Call to Action If today's message encouraged you, share it with a friend and subscribe for your daily 5-minute dose of faith. For more resources—including books, blogs, and additional podcast episodes—visit RobSkinner.com. Live bold. Pray big. Be a 10X Christian.

  💡 Episode Summary In this episode of The Rob Skinner Podcast, Don and Mie Lee share their inspiring journey of faith, love, and service. They talk about their conversions, cross-cultural marriage, and experiences as missionaries in Hong Kong and Japan. After retirement, Don and Mie felt called to return to mission work—this time in Eastern Europe, where they now serve in Bulgaria alongside younger disciples. Their reflections on aging, the desire to stay useful in God's kingdom, and the joy of serving others offer timeless wisdom for Christians seeking to make their lives count. "We want to be useful again." — Don and Mie Lee 🔑 Key Takeaways Don was baptized in 1976 and has been a Christian for nearly 50 years. Mie became a disciple while working as a Japanese diplomat in Jamaica. The couple met through mutual friends who "arranged" their meeting. Don's time in the Boston church during its explosive growth deeply shaped his faith. The Hong Kong mission team grew from 17 members to over 2,000 in just ten years. Mie faced early cultural and spiritual challenges while serving in Japan. After retirement, they felt a renewed call to serve in Eastern Europe. Their work in Bulgaria focuses on mentoring younger disciples and strengthening local churches. They emphasize that no matter your age or stage of life, you can still be useful in God's kingdom. 🕰️ Chapters 00:00 — Introduction to Don and Mie Lee 03:02 — Don's Journey to Faith 04:24 — Mie's Conversion in Jamaica 07:21 — Meeting and Marriage: A Cross-Cultural Love Story 11:37 — Mission to Hong Kong: Growth and Challenges 19:07 — Serving in Japan: Cultural Insights 28:45 — Life After Marriage: Seattle and Beyond 31:37 — Answering the Call to Return to Mission Work 35:28 — Why Eastern Europe? 38:25 — Life and Ministry in Bulgaria 47:30 — Encouragement for Future Missionaries 55:27 — Finishing Strong and Making Life Count 🗣️ Sound Bites "I want to make my life count." "We can be useful again." "It's never too late to make a difference." 🧭 Keywords missionaries, faith journey, cross-cultural marriage, church growth, retirement, Eastern Europe, Bulgaria, discipleship, service, personal growth, spiritual purpose 💬 Connect and Grow For books, blogs, podcasts, and resources to help you make this life count, visit 👉 RobSkinner.com If you'd like to support this program and help Rob continue his mission to multiply disciples, leaders, and churches, please consider buying him a coffee here: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/robskinner— Support the Rob Skinner Podcast 📲 Tags #FaithJourney #Missionaries #Inspiration #RetirementWithPurpose #Discipleship #EasternEurope #Bulgaria #ChristianLife #RobSkinnerPodcast #MakeYourLifeCount

Episode Summary In this episode, Rob explores why the Christian life was never meant to be lived alone. Drawing from 2 Timothy 2:2, he unpacks the biblical blueprint for spiritual multiplication—Paul → Timothy → Reliable People → Others. Rob explains how real impact comes not from doing everything yourself, but from raising up others to carry the message forward. Rob also shares insights from leadership expert Carl George, reminding listeners that effective leaders accomplish work through people—not by doing everything themselves. Whether you're a ministry leader, a small group leader, or simply a believer wanting to grow, this episode will help you break the "solo Christian" mindset and embrace the 10X approach of multiplying disciples. What You'll Learn in This Episode Why following Jesus alone limits your impact How 2 Timothy 2:2 gives a four-generation model for disciple-making The difference between doing ministry and developing ministers Why multiplication—not solo effort—is the heart of the 10X life Practical steps for passing on your faith to others How investing in people creates long-term, generational influence Key Quote "The task is too great for one person. It is more important for the leader of a growing church to produce other leaders than to perform personal ministry." —Carl George Application / Challenge Ask yourself: Who am I training right now? Who is learning from my walk with God? Who can I intentionally invest in this week? The 10X Christian doesn't try to carry everything alone—they multiply their impact by raising others up. Listen & Share If this episode encouraged you, share it with a friend who wants to grow their faith and influence. How to Support the Rob Skinner Podcast If you would like to help support my mission to multiply disciples, leaders, and churches, click here: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/robskinner Learn More / Get Resources For books, blogs, podcast episodes, and more tools to help you grow spiritually, visit: 👉 RobSkinner.com And if you've read The 10X Christian, please consider leaving a review on Amazon—it really helps spread the message!

Episode Summary In this episode, Rob unpacks one of the most powerful principles in the Christian life: two simple loves that can change everything—loving God and loving the person right in front of you. Drawing from 1 John 4:19–21 and a profound quote from missionary Eloy Cruz, Rob shows how these two loves form the core of a vibrant, authentic, and effective Christian walk. Discover how loving God shapes your character, how loving others reveals your devotion, and how everyday interactions become moments for God to work through you. This short, practical message will deepen your faith and sharpen your spiritual focus for the day ahead. Scripture 1 John 4:19–21 "We love because He first loved us. Whoever claims to love God yet hates a brother or sister is a liar… Anyone who loves God must also love their brother and sister." What You'll Learn The simple wisdom of Eloy Cruz's two loves Why loving God and loving the person in front of you cannot be separated How real love shows up in ordinary interactions—baristas, coworkers, family How God's love for you fuels your ability to love others Why every moment is an opportunity to reflect Jesus' heart How 10X Christians multiply love one person at a time Key Insights You can't love people "in general" without loving the actual person in front of you. Loving God expands your capacity; loving others proves your devotion. God doesn't require a stage, microphone, or platform—just a heart open to love. Slowing down, noticing people, and valuing them transforms your day and theirs. Application / Challenge Who is God putting in front of you today? Slow down. See them. Encourage them. You don't have to fix their life—just help them feel seen, valued, and loved. That's how 10X Christians change the world: one person, one moment at a time. Call to Action If this episode encouraged you, please share it with a friend and subscribe for your daily 5-minute boost of faith. 👉 For more resources, books, and episodes, visit: RobSkinner.com 👉 Support the mission: Help Rob multiply disciples, leaders, and churches worldwide by contributing here: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/robskinner 👉 If you've read The 10X Christian, please leave a rating and review on Amazon—your feedback helps others grow!

Live the Warrior's Life Scripture: 2 Timothy 4:5 (NLT) Episode Summary In this episode of The Rob Skinner Podcast / The 10X Christian Podcast, Rob explores what it means to move from studying the Christian life to living it with courage, conviction, and spiritual toughness. Inspired by the ancient warrior Telamon of Arcadia—who said, "It is one thing to study war and another to live the warrior's life"—Rob challenges listeners to stop approaching faith as theory and start embodying it as a daily battle fought with clarity, purpose, and courage. Drawing from 2 Timothy 4:5, Rob highlights Paul's charge to Timothy: Keep a clear mind Don't fear suffering Share the Good News Fully carry out the ministry God has assigned This episode calls believers to embrace the "warrior life" of discipleship—stepping into hard things, facing fear head-on, and living boldly for Christ. Key Points Studying faith is good—but living it is where transformation happens. Paul wrote 2 Timothy from prison, urging believers not just to talk about courage but to show it. Real discipleship is proven under pressure: in rejection, misunderstanding, spiritual battles, and perseverance. A 10X Christian chooses conviction over comfort and mission over fear. Living the warrior's life means stepping into ministry, sharing your faith, forgiving people, and acting even when afraid. Challenge of the Day Ask yourself: Am I studying faith, or living it? Take one bold step today: Share Jesus with someone Forgive someone Step into a ministry opportunity Do the hard thing God has placed in front of you A 10X Christian doesn't run from the fight—they stand firm, believing God has already won the battle. Scripture of the Episode 2 Timothy 4:5 (NLT): "But you should keep a clear mind in every situation. Don't be afraid of suffering for the Lord. Work at telling others the Good News, and fully carry out the ministry God has given you." How to Support the Rob Skinner Podcast If you'd like to help support Rob's mission to multiply disciples, leaders, and churches, you can give a gift here: 👉 https://www.buymeacoffee.com/robskinner Enjoying the Podcast? Please take a moment to rate and review The 10X Christian on Amazon and wherever you listen to podcasts. Your review helps others discover the show.

Summary In this episode of The Rob Skinner Podcast, Jesse and Alexandra Ghoman share their inspiring journey of faith, love, and ministry. From their beginnings in faith to their marriage and transition to leading the Charleston Church, the Ghomans open up about the joys and challenges of ministry life. They discuss personal losses, leadership lessons, and the power of relationships in growing a vibrant church community. Their story is one of humility, perseverance, and faith — a powerful reminder that great ministry is built on love, teamwork, and trust in God's plan. Key Takeaways Jesse and Alexandra's unique journeys of faith and calling. The importance of deep relationships and authentic community in ministry. How to navigate challenges and losses in leadership. Proven strategies for church growth and community engagement. The role of humility and collaboration between evangelists and elders. Building a strong culture of leadership development. The power of faith to overcome obstacles. Creating an inviting and inspiring environment for families. The lasting impact of personal relationships on church health and growth. Dreaming big for the future — multiplication, vision, and legacy. Chapters 00:00 – Introduction and Background 01:48 – Faith Journeys: Becoming Christians 06:21 – Meeting and Marrying: Jesse and Alexandra's Love Story 11:54 – Ministry Beginnings: From Boston to Charleston 15:38 – Transitioning to Charleston: Reasons for the Move 19:22 – Growing the Church: Strategies and Challenges 28:29 – Navigating Loss: Personal and Ministry Challenges 31:32 – Recognizing Unique Gifts in Leadership 34:35 – The Importance of Experience and Expertise 37:27 – Strategies for Raising Up Leaders 47:07 – Building Healthy Relationships with Elders 52:58 – The Value of Humility and Time in Leadership 56:13 – Intentional Friendships and Community Building 56:54 – Vision for the Future: Multiplication and Growth 01:02:10 – Making Life Count: Priorities and Legacy 🎧 Listen and Be Inspired! Discover more inspiring interviews, resources, and tools to help you grow your faith, leadership, and impact by visiting RobSkinner.com. How to Support the Rob Skinner Podcast If you'd like to help support my mission to multiply disciples, leaders, and churches, click here:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/robskinner 👉 Buy Me a Coffee And if you've read my book The 10X Christian, please take a moment to leave a rating and review on Amazon — it helps others discover the message and multiply the impact!

How to Support the Rob Skinner Podcast.  If you would like to help support my mission to multiply disciples, leaders and churches, click here:  https://www.buymeacoffee.com/robskinner   Michael and Angela DeAquino have a unique passion and ministry:  Coaching parents on how to raise their kids before their first child is born.  Hoping to avoid many of the pitfalls of parenting this couple with five kids believe that the earlier parents get help raising their kids, the better.  They recently wrote a book on the subject and are helping ministries prepare married couples to raise spiritual kids. More about Michael and Angela: Michael was born to Brazilian parents who immigrated to the U.S. and eventually settled in Chicago. His dad was trying to make ends meet and got involved in Amway for a time. One day, while knocking on doors in their apartment building, he met a group of disciples who were having a Bible talk. They invited him in, and not long after, both of Michael's parents became Christians in the Chicago church. Michael was six years old at the time. He grew up in the Chicago church and was part of an awesome youth ministry. At 14, he decided to become a disciple himself. After graduating high school in 2003, he joined the campus ministry in Champaign, IL. During his sophomore year, he visited a friend who attended Harding University and loved the atmosphere there. He transferred to Harding his junior year to pursue a Bible degree with a focus on Youth and Family Ministry. During his senior year, his former teen ministry leader from Chicago called and asked if he'd consider leading the campus ministry in Cincinnati. After graduating in 2007, Michael moved to Cincinnati to take on that role. Angela didn't grow up in the ICOC. She was first invited to church in fourth grade by her best friend Kelly, who invited her on the bus. Angela came on and off but eventually became a Christian her senior year of high school in 2006. She was part of the graduating class that moved from the teen ministry into the Cincinnati campus ministry in 2007, which is when Michael began leading it. We started dating in 2008 and got married in 2011. We had our first child in 2013 and today have five kids (one boy and four girls). In 2017, we were invited to interview for the Youth and Family Ministry position in Denver, Colorado. We moved there in 2018 and led the ministry for four years. In 2022, we transitioned out of full-time ministry. Angela now stays home and homeschools our kids, and Michael works full-time as a realtor here in Denver. The Parenthood Primer and The Parenthood Project Ministry After 11 years doing campus ministry, we noticed that many campus students who had been raised in our churches were struggling spiritually. The reason we decided to move to Denver to serve in Youth and Family Ministry was because we thought that if we could reach them earlier, in high school or middle school, we could help them be better prepared. But eventually, we realized the real need was to reach parents earlier. That insight led us to the idea of pre-parental counseling, helping couples prepare for parenting before they even have kids. We wrote a book called The Parenthood Primer: A Pre-Parental Counseling Workbook for Expecting Christian Couples. It is designed to help couples build a solid foundation for faith and family before their child arrives. We also started The Parenthood Project, a non-profit ministry that helps churches build young parent ministries. Many churches do a great job with teens, campus students, young professionals, and marrieds, but once people start having kids, they often lose that sense of community and support. Our goal is to help churches bridge that gap by equipping and encouraging young parents early on so their homes can be spiritually strong from the start. There are long-term benefits for churches and it's also a huge evangelistic opportunity. Our focus now is helping churches and parents build strong families before and during those early parenting years. We have a website where parents and churches can sign up for our online pre-parental counseling course, along with many other resources and opportunities. (We are currently involved in helping 13 churches.) Michael and Angela DeAquino

  The Rob Skinner Podcast: Releasing Your Spiritual Emergency Brake Keywords: spiritual growth, overcoming fear, faith, personal development, Christian life, release the emergency brake, live free, purpose, growth, no regrets Episode Summary In this inspiring episode, Rob Skinner unpacks the idea of spiritual growth through the vivid metaphor of an emergency brake. Just like a car can't move freely when the brake is engaged, many Christians struggle to move forward in faith because of hidden fears, doubts, or regrets. Rob challenges listeners to identify what's holding them back and to release those spiritual brakes through prayer, surrender, and renewed trust in God. This episode will help you live free, pursue your purpose, and experience the kind of faith that moves without hesitation or regret. Key Takeaways If you've ever felt held back spiritually, it's time to release the emergency brake in your life. A locked brake keeps even the most powerful engine from moving forward. When your spiritual brake is on, you can press the gas but make little progress. God calls you to throw off everything that hinders and run your race freely. Stop replaying the past — name it, pray about it, and let it go. A car wasn't designed to run with the brake on — and neither were you. God created you to move forward, unhindered, fully alive, and free in His purpose. Memorable Quotes "Whatever it is, name it. Pray about it." "The road ahead is wide open." "He created you to run free." Episode Chapters 00:00 – Introduction to Spiritual Growth 00:42 – The Emergency Brake Analogy 02:35 – Identifying What Holds You Back 04:25 – Moving Forward in Faith Support the Show If this episode encourages you, visit RobSkinner.com to learn more about Rob's mission to multiply disciples, leaders, and churches. 💡 Help Support the Rob Skinner Podcast Join others who are helping spread this message of faith and purpose by visiting Buy Me a Coffee 👉 https://www.buymeacoffee.com/robskinner And don't forget to read and review The 10X Christian on Amazon — your feedback helps others grow in faith and discover the path to a 10X life!

The Rob Skinner Podcast: The Unmatched Work Ethic of Michael Jordan Keywords: Michael Jordan, work ethic, basketball, practice, excellence, team spirit, devotion, faith Episode Summary In this episode, Rob explores the legendary work ethic of Michael Jordan — a man whose devotion to practice and team success defined his greatness. Discover how Jordan's relentless drive, even in the face of injury, reveals powerful lessons about discipline, excellence, and spiritual growth. Rob connects Jordan's example on the court to how we can live lives of faith, focus, and devotion off the court. Key Takeaways Michael Jordan's practice habits were legendary. He prioritized practice over games and improvement over recognition. Jordan's devotion to his team was unmatched — even practicing when injured. Excellence in basketball, as in life, stems from daily dedication. Team success, not personal glory, was always his focus. His work ethic inspired everyone around him. Greatness is forged in practice, not performance. The same principles of devotion apply to our faith and walk with God. Memorable Quotes "MJ would practice like it was his last day." "Practice is more important than the games." "I'll practice when I'm hurt." Episode Chapters 00:00 – Rediscovering Devotion to Spiritual Practice 00:37 – Devotion: The Key to Spiritual Growth Support the Show If this episode inspires you, visit RobSkinner.com to learn more about Rob's mission to multiply disciples, leaders, and churches. 💡 Help Support the Rob Skinner Podcast If you'd like to help Rob continue producing faith-building content, click here to contribute: 👉 https://www.buymeacoffee.com/robskinner And don't forget to read and review The 10X Christian on Amazon — your feedback helps others discover the message!

🎙️ Episode Title: The First 10X Christian In this episode, Rob Skinner shares the inspiring story of the first 10X Christian—a believer whose faith, courage, and obedience produced extraordinary spiritual impact. Rob explores what made this person's life so fruitful and how you can apply the same principles to multiply your influence for Christ. You'll learn: The key traits that define a 10X Christian How to move from ordinary to extraordinary in your walk with God Practical steps to grow in effectiveness and fruitfulness Whether you're a new believer or a seasoned disciple, this episode will encourage you to live boldly and make your life count for God's Kingdom. 🙌 How to Support the Rob Skinner Podcast If you would like to help support my mission to multiply disciples, leaders, and churches, click here: 👉 https://www.buymeacoffee.com/robskinner 📘 Read & Review The 10X Christian If you've enjoyed the podcast, please take a moment to read and review my book The 10X Christian on Amazon. Your review helps others discover the message and join the movement toward a more effective Christian life. #The10XChristian #RobSkinnerPodcast #ChristianGrowth #FaithInAction #MultiplyDisciples #Leadership #SpiritualGrowth #Discipleship #ChristianPodcast #FaithJourney

How to Support the Rob Skinner Podcast.  If you would like to help support my mission to multiply disciples, leaders and churches, click here:  https://www.buymeacoffee.com/robskinner Kolade Paul-Ajuwape has a big dream to reach the lost in Japan.  He graduated MIT in engineering and has spent his years after graduation doing missionary work all over the world.  His ultimate dream is to take the gospel to Japan and assist the church there in reaching the lost.  He spent the summer on a short term missionary trip to Tokyo and other cities in Japan reaching out to people.  Find out what he learned and his plans for the future.

How to Support the Rob Skinner Podcast.  If you would like to help support my mission to multiply disciples, leaders and churches, click here:  https://www.buymeacoffee.com/robskinner Join Joel Peed, Joel Nagel, Pam Skinner as we talk about the third day of the Climb Conference in Lansing, Michigan.

How to Support the Rob Skinner Podcast.  If you would like to help support my mission to multiply disciples, leaders and churches, click here:  https://www.buymeacoffee.com/robskinner   Join us as we talk about today's highlights from the Climb Conference 2025 day 2.  Special guest:  Chris Schwartzenberger from Spokane, Washington.

How to Support the Rob Skinner Podcast.  If you would like to help support my mission to multiply disciples, leaders and churches, click here:  https://www.buymeacoffee.com/robskinner  I'm Rob Skinner and this is the Rob Skinner Podcast. Today, I'm talking to Will Thorne.  Will and his wife, Chelsea, lead the Boston Campus Ministry that had over 100 baptisms last year.  Find out what he's doing and how he got here. All this and more on the Rob Skinner Podcast!   Questions 1.     How'd you become a Christian? 2.    How'd you meet Chelsea? 3.    I've heard your Dad's name many times over the years.  What does he do? 4.   Where have you been since you became a Christian? 5.    How did the door open for your to lead the Sydney, Australia church? 6.   What were some of the highs and lows of leading a church like that while relatively young? 7.   Why you leave Australia? 8.   How did you land in Boston? 9.   What's been going on in the campus ministry?  Where was it at when you started and what's it like now? 10.          What's your secret sauce?  Many kingdom kids fade or drift away or simply stagnate.  You chose to really dig in spiritually.  Why? 11.  I heard a rumor that you lost some weight, is that true?  How'd you do it? 12. I heard your son had a recent diagnosis.  Can you talk about it? 13. What are your dreams for the future?  Where do you see yourself in five years? What advice would you give to a person who wants to make his life count?

How to Support the Rob Skinner Podcast.  If you would like to help support my mission to multiply disciples, leaders and churches, click here:  https://www.buymeacoffee.com/robskinner   I'm Rob Skinner and this is the Rob Skinner Podcast.  Sometimes churches get forgotten, neglected or passed over.  Bob Shanks has gone to one of those "forgotten" churches and brought new life to the church he leads in Savannah, Georgia.  Bob was living on his own at fifteen, married at 20 with two kids already.  Christ found him and his wife Tricia, turned their lives around and they have spent the last 30 years transforming churches.  Find out who he is and what he's doing to rekindle faith in this episode of the Rob Skinner Podcast!

How to Support the Rob Skinner Podcast.  If you would like to help support my mission to multiply disciples, leaders and churches, click here:  https://www.buymeacoffee.com/robskinner   Octave Lindly is a disciple living in San Diego, California.  In this episode he shares how he became financially independent by the age of 40.  He also shares about his spiritual journey, his marriage and divorce and how a person can become financially free in 10 years.  

How to Support the Rob Skinner Podcast.  If you would like to help support my mission to multiply disciples, leaders and churches, click here:  https://www.buymeacoffee.com/robskinner   Transcript of How to Enjoy Peace of Mind   When Jesus was about to leave this world, he told his disciples, "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid."  (John 14:27) He knew that he was headed for the cross.  He knew his disciples were going to experience trials, tough times and lots of trouble.  His gift to them was peace.  Peace of mind.  I think the idea of peace of mind gets overlooked today.  There is a lot of study on the concept of happiness, and I think these things are related.  Happiness is often connected to what you have, who you're with and where you are going.  Peace is independent of all of those things and is available to every disciple in every circumstance, right now. I want you to think about a time when you were enjoying peace of mind.  When you really felt calm and joyful inside.  What was that like?  Can you share about that experience? Let's take a look at how to enjoy more of the gift Jesus gave us, the gift of peace. 1.    Abstain from Sinful Desires.  Peter shares this in 1 Peter 2:11, "11 Dear friends, I urge you, as foreigners and exiles, to abstain from sinful desires, which wage war against your soul."  There is nothing that will destroy your peace of mind more easily than unrestrained sinful desires.  This is why Jesus counsels in Matthew 5:30 that, "if your hand causes you to sin, cut it off."  Jesus is not being mean or "old school," he's being realistic.  If you are compromising or tolerating a certain level of sin in your life, you're going to have difficulty enjoying the peace of mind Jesus promises.  Peter rephrases Jesus' command by telling us to abstain, which means, "to refrain deliberately and often with an effort of self-denial from an action or practice."  That can mean alcohol, swearing, media consumption, shopping, news binging and other controlling habits. As a disciple of Jesus, this world is not your home.  You need to live with a level of detachment as a foreigner.  When Pam and I lived in Japan, there were many things that went straight over our heads as foreigners and "Gai-Jin."  The jokes, the culture, the conformity to custom. If you want peace of mind, don't negotiate, don't tolerate, don't rationalize, instead abstain.  As Thomas A'Kempis said in the Imitation of Christ, "true peace of heart is found in resisting passions, not in yielding to them." 2.   Put your love into action.  1 John 3:16-19.  16 This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers and sisters. 17 If anyone has material possessions and sees a brother or sister in need but has no pity on them, how can the love of God be in that person? 18 Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.  19 This is how we know that we belong to the truth and how we set our hearts at rest in his presence." Resisting evil is only one part of the equation to find peace.  John advises us to live and love like Jesus did.  Loving in actions and truth reminds you that you belong to the truth and sets your heart at rest in his presence.  It doesn't earn you a spot in heaven, but it reminds you of your identity as a child of God.  If you want peace of mind, wake up each day with a determination to actively serve someone, help someone, encourage someone, assist someone, help someone move, comfort someone, advise someone, offer someone your time, energy or expertise.  Next time you are prompted by the spirit, act on that nudge.  Love in action and truth.  Enjoy peace of mind and set your heart at rest in his presence. 3.   Remember God is Greater than Your Feelings.  1 John 3:19-20.  This is how we know that we belong to the truth and how we set our hearts at rest in his presence: 20 If our hearts condemn us, we know that God is greater than our hearts, and he knows everything. Our feelings and thoughts are often the worst offenders when it comes to disrupting our peace of mind.  Our self-judgment, self-criticism, wacky thoughts, catastrophic fears, fatalistic ideas, borrowed concepts from the world, childhood thoughts, inherited ideas all contribute to a lack of peace.  As Tom Ferry says, ""Negative self-talk is the equivalent of letting a drunk monkey loose in your kitchen." That's when we need to remind ourselves that God is far greater than our feelings.  Our feelings don't define reality, they are only an impression of reality.  The God who made the world, who chose you before the creation of the world, who personally showed up in the world to rescue you is going to bring to completion what he started when he called you.  He knows all about you and your quirks, faults and failures and he still adores you.  You need to take captive those misguided thoughts and make them obedient to Christ, who is greater than your heart. Take some time each day to sit quietly and focus on the greatness of God, a scripture or a noble thought.  When a weird thought pops up, don't freak out.  Just look at it and ask yourself, is this thought from God?  What's the reality? 4.  Actively pursue peace of mind.  2 Timothy 2:22.  "22 Flee the evil desires of youth and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart." If you have overlooked, undervalued or ignored the concept of peace of mind, it might be time to reevaluate it.  Jesus considered it a top gift and at the critical event of his life, the cross, he gave the gift of peace to those who followed him.  You might want to find out why Jesus considered it so important.  In fact, I'd do more than think about it, I'd pursue it.  Make it a priority along with righteousness, faith a love.  All the "cool kids" who have pure hearts are doing it.  I like what Naval Ravikant shares in his almanack:  "When I was younger, I really, really valued freedom. Freedom was one of my core values. Ironically, it still is. It's probably one of my top three values, but it's now a different definition of freedom. My old definition was "freedom to." Freedom to do anything I want. Freedom to do whatever I feel like, whenever I feel like. Now, the freedom I'm looking for is internal freedom. It's "freedom from." Freedom from reaction. Freedom from feeling angry. Freedom from being sad. Freedom from being forced to do things. I'm looking for "freedom from," internally and externally, whereas before I was looking for "freedom to." Naval is not a disciple, but I think there is value here.  Peace of mind is "freedom from."  You can enjoy peace, joy, and contentment in any stage of life, relationship status, financial circumstance, health status, location or any other environment.  Make a decision that you are going to pursue peace of mind.  Make it a conscious goal to enjoy Jesus' gift to you.

How to Support the Rob Skinner Podcast.  If you would like to help support my mission to multiply disciples, leaders and churches, click here:  https://www.buymeacoffee.com/robskinner     Transcript for How to Become a Loving Person Pam and I just moved to Boston from Tucson, Arizona.  We lived there for 13 years.  We planted the church there and created so many memories.  The last month we were there, we were busy packing up and saying goodbye to people.  It's hard to condense thirteen years into a few goodbyes.  You know what was most important to Pam and me?  Knowing that I loved the people there and that they loved me.  When I heard people share how I had helped them and loved them, that's all that mattered.  There were many things people shared that I had forgotten about.  They were often small things, but they were big to those people.  Coming here I decided to have a simple focus, to love.  That's the goal. What's your goal?  ·       Make friends? ·       Find a romantic relationship ·       Make a difference? It's easy to remain unconnected with people even when you are surrounded by them.  Let's figure out how to grow in love: Let's read 1 Timothy 1:3-6 3 As I urged you when I went into Macedonia, stay there in Ephesus so that you may command certain people not to teach false doctrines any longer 4 or to devote themselves to myths and endless genealogies. Such things promote controversial speculations rather than advancing God's work—which is by faith. 5 The goal of this command is love, which comes from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith. 6 Some have departed from these and have turned to meaningless talk.  Paul is advising Timothy how to lead the church in Ephesus.  He tells him to command people to stop wasting time with empty words, false doctrine, gossip and backbiting.  He says the goal of this command is love.  Love provides the environment that advances God's work.  If you've ever been in a dysfunctional family or church, you know how God's work gets sidelined when love takes a backseat to controversy. Love is too general of a goal to approach directly.  It really has to be broken down.  How do you become a more loving person?  How do you experience more love in your heart?  How do you change and grow into a person who is surrounded by loving people? Paul explains that love is like a tree that grows when it's in the soil of a pure heart, good conscience and a sincere faith.  Let's break that down: ·       Love Comes From A Pure Heart Proverbs 4:23-27, Above all else, guard your heart,     for everything you do flows from it. 24 Keep your mouth free of perversity;     keep corrupt talk far from your lips. 25 Let your eyes look straight ahead;     fix your gaze directly before you. 26 Give careful thought to the[c] paths for your feet     and be steadfast in all your ways. 27 Do not turn to the right or the left;     keep your foot from evil. The Bible says guard your heart because everything you do flows from it.  When you allow poison into your heart, it kills the love that wants to grow there. The first way to keep your heart pure is to watch what you say.  Keep your words positive, faithful and upbuilding.  Paul was pointing out the "meaningless talk" and empty words of the Christians.  How are you doing in what you say?  Are you loving people with your words or tearing them down? One decision Pam and I made before we left Tucson was that we were going to encourage every person specifically who came to church. We spent several midweek services praising and thanking every member and person who was attending.  There were people in the audience who we had conflicts with.  There were a few people who we had funny feelings toward and they felt the same toward us.  But we decided to only praise and encourage.  It was amazing.  My feelings for those people changed and when they had a farewell party for us, they were so loving and kind. Take a minute to say something positive about the next person you run into.  Whether you are at work, the gym, in class or at home, deliberately take a second to say something encouraging to the next person you bump into.  It can be as simple as "I like your shirt" or "I'm glad you're here" but make a decision to use your words for good if you want to have a pure heart. The second way to develop a pure heart is to 25 Let your eyes look straight ahead;     fix your gaze directly before you. Be careful what you are looking at.  It's hard to be loving when you have no boundaries for what you allow your eyes to see. ·       Shopping ·       Money ·       Sex The summer after I graduated from high school, I was dating a girl who had won a miss teen America pageant.  Needless to say, she was pretty.  But I got distracted.  Instead of focusing on her, I got focused on buying a 1965 Volkswagen.  I paid $1,100 for it and then the same week I bought it, the engine blew.  I spent that summer working full time to buy and then rebuild it.  I was so obsessed with that car, I would work 24-hour shifts at the fairgrounds picking up trash to earn money.  My eyes were on the car and not my girlfriend.  Guess what happened?  She dumped me for someone who was willing to pay attention to her.  What are you focused on?  Where are you eyes looking?  It's hard to love when your eyes are focused on the wrong thing.   ·       Love Comes From A Good Conscience When you guard your heart and start cultivating a pure heart, it leads to a good conscience.  You start feeling peace of mind.  It's hard to feel loving when you know that what you believe and the way you are living are in conflict.  You feel like a fraud and a faker.  If you'd like to improve your peace of mind, take some time to talk to someone about what's going on in your life.  There are always going to be gaps in our life and doctrine, acknowledging those gaps goes a long way toward creating a good conscience and closing the gap. When's the last time you talked to someone about what is bothering your conscience?  You know what is the hardest call to make?  The call to let someone know that you aren't perfect, that you blew it and that you made a mistake.  I was just reading Seneca this morning and he said, "Why does no one admit his failings?  Because he's still deep in them.  It's the person who's awakened who recounts his dream, and acknowledging one's failings is a sign of health."  I have a discipling relationship with someone that I talk to regularly.  I hate it when I've got a sin I need to confess and talk about.  Whether it's lust, something stupid I said, whether I was sharp in my tone with Pam or any other thing, I don't want to make that call and talk to the person.  But my conscience bothers me.  I don't have a good conscience.  But what Seneca is saying is encouraging.  The fact that my conscience does bother me shows that I am spiritually alive and sensitive.  I'd be in real trouble if I didn't feel the need to deal with my sin.  Seneca goes on to say, "With afflictions of the spirit, though, the opposite is the case:  the worse a person is, the less he feels it." ·       Love Comes From A Sincere Faith Paul is pointing out the difference between love and empty talk that masquerades as religion.  God is looking for disciples who show express their faith by practicing love not empty talk.  My life previous to Jesus was empty words.  I wasn't loving and I didn't have a genuine and sincere faith.  My friends would be surprised when I offered to help them or serve. When you focus on planting seeds of purity, good conscience and sincere faith love will follow. Jesus is the ultimate example of this passage.  His heart was pure, his conscience was good and his faith was sincere.  It revealed itself through love and sacrifice: Romans 5:6-8, 6 You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly. 7 Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous person, though for a good person someone might possibly dare to die. 8 But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Every week at church we remember the one person who consistently hit the goal of loving.  He showed it by giving his life for those who aren't.  That's why Jesus told us to take time to remember his life and death every week.  It reminds us how much we are loved and inspires us to be more loving.  Look what Seneca, the stoic philosopher wrote: Happy the man who improves other people not merely when he is in their presence but even when he is in their thoughts! And happy, too, is the person who can so revere another as to adjust and shape his own personality in the light of recollections, even, of that other. A person able to revere another thus will soon deserve to be revered himself…Choose someone whose way of life as well as words, and whose very face as mirroring the character that lies behind it, have won your approval. Be always pointing him out to yourself either as your guardian or as your model. There is a need, in my view, for someone as a standard against which our characters can measure themselves. Without a ruler to do it against you won't make the crooked straight. Wouldn't it be awesome to be a consistently loving person?  How amazing it'd be to be known as an extremely loving person.  Let me remind you of some steps to building a loving heart: ·       Watch your words ·       Watch your eyes ·       Be honest with your life ·       Get around people who are going in the right direction ·       Build a sincere faith and learn the truth

How to Support the Rob Skinner Podcast.  If you would like to help support my mission to multiply disciples, leaders and churches, click here:  https://www.buymeacoffee.com/robskinner   There are three things that we can start doing that will take our faith from theory to practice every single day.  All we need to do is: 1.     Encourage right now 2.    Connect right now 3.    Pray right now Find out how in this episode of the Rob Skinner Podcast!   How to Support the Rob Skinner Podcast.  If you would like to help support my mission to multiply disciples, leaders and churches, click here:  https://www.buymeacoffee.com/robskinner   The Power of Right Now Introduction ·      Have you ever listened to someone's story and then said, "I'll pray for you."  After saying that you quickly forgot about it and never prayed for the person. ·      Have you ever had a person pop up in your head and you thought, I wonder how they are doing?  I bet that person could use a call.  After that thought you quickly moved on and never followed up. ·      Have you ever felt the impulse to reach out and share with someone and then backed off because you were: Ø Too busy Ø Too tired Ø Afraid of their reaction Instead of acting on that impulse, you let the Spirit's prompting pass away. If you can remember at least one time that happened to you, you understand the importance of living out your faith, "Right Now."  That's why I want to talk to you tonight about the power of "right now."  There are three things that we can start doing that will take our faith from theory to practice every single day.  All we need to do is: 1.     Encourage right now 2.    Connect right now 3.    Pray right now   1.    Encourage Right Now Paul talks about the power of right now in Ephesians 5:15-20.  "15 Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, 16 making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. 17 Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord's will is. 18 Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit, 19 speaking to one another with psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit. Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord, 20 always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.  Paul tells us to be very careful how we live.  Why, because the days are evil.  That's why we need to realize the power of right now and make the most of every opportunity.  Ø Right now people are struggling with temptation Ø Right now disciples are targeted by Satan Ø Right now friends you know are dealing with health issues Ø Right now Christians are considering leaving God and his church Ø Right now people you thought were solid are feeling shaky How can you help?  §  Encourage people right now §  Speak to one another with psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit §  Share scriptures that encourage you §  Praise people §  Thank people §  Lift people up §  Share positively about people who aren't here right now o  I really appreciate Stuart.  His work in Boston has inspired me and is one of the reasons Pam and I wanted to move here.  He is an extremely encouraging person. Often times we know these things and we have positive thoughts about others, but we don't take advantage of the power of now to encourage others.  Let's make the most of this opportunity by turning to the person next to you and encourage them with: §  Positive words §  Gratitude §  A scripture §  Praise   2.   Connect Right Now Let's read Colossians 4:5, "Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity."  Paul says we need to be wise in how we deal with those aren't following Jesus.  We need to make the most of every opportunity.  God gives us opportunities every day to help those around us.  If we want to see God work in our life, we need to connect every day. On my first Sunday, I was sitting in front of a couple that I could tell were visiting.  I introduced myself and they shared they were here for the first time.  A few minutes later I saw someone else talking to them and being kind to them.  That brother understood the power of right now.  At the end of the service, I looked back and they were gone, but I know that brother had exchanged information with them.  He had made the most of every opportunity.  God gives us opportunities to love and serve those around us every day.  We just need to be aware and ready to make the most of every opportunity. Ø When we are at work Ø When we are in an elevator Ø When we are checking out of the store When I arrived, the first thing I did was ask Stuart for some invitation cards to connect when God gave me an opportunity.  It's been so much fun to connect and see the power of now: Ø My movers Ø Dunkin Donuts Ø Roche Brothers I think one of the easiest ways aside from reaching out at church on Sunday is simply texting your friends and letting them know what you are doing.  It's soft, it's gentle, it's loving and if they're aren't interested they can ignore you.  However, a simple text can change a person's life.  Let's take advantage of the power of now.  Pull out your phone and text a friend or coworker.  Just text them something loving like:  "Just thinking about you.  Hope you are doing well."  If you want to go an extra step, you can add, "I'd love for you to join me this Sunday at church" 3.   Pray Right Now How else can we make the most of right now?  We can pray for each other in the moment.  I can't tell you how many times I've said "I'll pray for you" and then forgot to do it.  But then I found a way to avoid that.  When someone shares something serious, heavy, or worthy of prayer, I use that as a trigger to pray right then and there.  Prayer makes a difference, but if you never follow through, you missed the power of right now.  Look at how James describes how powerful prayer really is:  "13 Is anyone among you in trouble? Let them pray. Is anyone happy? Let them sing songs of praise. 14 Is anyone among you sick? Let them call the elders of the church to pray over them and anoint them with oil in the name of the Lord. 15 And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise them up. If they have sinned, they will be forgiven. 16 Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective. 17 Elijah was a human being, even as we are. He prayed earnestly that it would not rain, and it did not rain on the land for three and a half years. 18 Again he prayed, and the heavens gave rain, and the earth produced its crops. 19 My brothers and sisters, if one of you should wander from the truth and someone should bring that person back, 20 remember this: Whoever turns a sinner from the error of their way will save them from death and cover over a multitude of sins." James writes that if we or someone we know is going through something, anything-our first response should be to pray.  Why?  Prayer is powerful and effective.  Prayer moves God.  God can do anything.  He then launches into a story about Elijah, who he says was a normal person just like us.  His prayers changed weather patterns.  Would you like to save someone from death, bring wanderers back, return people to the truth and cover over a multitude of sins?  It all starts with praying.  Praying right now.  Let's pray right now by asking the person next to us, "What can I pray for you about?"  After listening, hold hands and pray for that person.  After that let the other person ask, "What can I pray for you about."  After the person shares a need, put your hands on his or her shoulder or hold hands and say a prayer for them.  Pray right now. Conclusion Can you imagine how your life would fill up with joy and power if you started making the most of every opportunity?  What if on a daily basis you began to: 1.     Encourage right now 2.    Connect right now 3.    Pray right now I believe you would begin to draw closer to God and people and you would be begin to see miracles happen.  That's the power of "Right Now."     Ice Cream Social

How to Support the Rob Skinner Podcast.  If you would like to help support my mission to multiply disciples, leaders and churches, click here:  https://www.buymeacoffee.com/robskinner Join me today as I talk to Gordon Ferguson.  Gordon has served as an Evangelist, Elder, Teacher and Author.  He talks about: His journey to Christ The secret to his happy marriage with his wife, Theresa How he got connected with the discipling movement What went through his mind as he lay close to death from cancer What he'd do differently if he had his life to do over again What he sees as essential for future growth in our family of churches More About Gordon: Education 1961-1965 Northwestern State University BME (Bachelor of Music Education) 1966-1968 Northwestern State University Graduate Studies (Edu. Admin.) 1970-1972 Preston Road School of Preaching Diploma 1974-1979 Harding School of Theology M.A. (New Testament Studies) Professional Ministry Summary  Over 50 years experience as a ministry staff member.  Served on ministry staff in five different states.  Preached and taught in many states of the US and many foreign countries, including most countries in Continental Europe, a number of countries in Asia and Latin America, Ukraine, and Great Britain.  Instructor in the Preston Road School of Preaching − Dallas, Texas.  Director of the New England/Continental Europe School of Ministry  Dean and teacher in the Ukraine Institute of Ministry and in the Asia-Pacific Leadership Academy.  Director of the Pacific School of Ministry in Los Angeles.  Part-time staff as teacher in the Dallas/Fort Worth Church.  Writing: seventeen books, numerous audio and video materials, plus articles and chapters in a number of additional books.  Roles: evangelist, elder and teacher in various locales. Family Wife: Theresa, married 57 years – January 30, 2022 Children: Bryan and Renee (five grandchildren – four grandsons and one granddaughter, ages 16-23) Age: 79 as of October 27, 2021