Claim OwnershipFastened Like Nails
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The mission of Lamplighter Ministries is “to make ready a people prepared for the Lord, by building Christ-like character one story at a time.” The mission of this ministry is deeply rooted in the truths found in Malachi 4:6 and Luke 1:17. The gospel writer Luke quotes from Malachi 4:6 in his first chapter. His handling of the text is peculiar because he leaves out part of the quote and adds a sentence that changes the entire meaning of Malachi’s text. In Malachi we read: “To turn the hearts of the fathers to their children and the hearts of the children to their fathers, lest I come and smite the earth with a curse.” In Luke we read: “To turn the hearts of the fathers to their children and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just, to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.” The first part of this verse is identical in both passages. The second part, “turning the hearts of the children to their fathers” is similar to “turning the disobedient to the wisdom of the just.” It appears that Luke is emphasizing that children’s hearts (the disobedient) will turn to their fathers, if their fathers’ hearts become righteous and worthy. The last part of the verse in Malachi, “lest I come and smite the earth with a curse,” has been deleted and new text has been added, thus changing the meaning. Generally, the New Testament writers will change an Old Testament text to help clarify the intended meaning, but here Luke changes the meaning of the text entirely. Whereas the Old Testament closes out with the word “curse” and a strict warning, the New Testament closes out with hope and an emphasis on grace—“the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all, Amen.” By Divine design the Old Testament closes in “curse” and the New Testament closes with “grace.” When Luke the physician quotes Malachi 4:6 and removes the curse, I believe he was adding that which is at the heart of Christian discipleship—“making ready a people prepared for the Lord.”
As I studied Luke’s addition, I realized that the words “make ready” and “prepared” are the very essence of our mission. The word “ready,” in Greek, hetoimaz het-oy-mad’-zo, means to prepare, provide, construct, create, or make ready through internal fitness. The word “prepared,” in Greek, kataskeuaz, kat-ask-yoo-ad’-zo, means to build, make, ordain, or prepare thoroughly and properly by external equipment. Lamplighter Ministries has a two-fold focus: preparing people to serve the Lord through internal character development and external career preparation. The words “ready” and “prepared” form the foundation for our mission at Lamplighter. We are building Christ-like character internally through inspiring and godly role models, and motivating individuals to live a life of excellence through external opportunities that cultivate their God-given abilities into the highest level of skill and excellence.
As I studied Luke’s addition, I realized that the words “make ready” and “prepared” are the very essence of our mission. The word “ready,” in Greek, hetoimaz het-oy-mad’-zo, means to prepare, provide, construct, create, or make ready through internal fitness. The word “prepared,” in Greek, kataskeuaz, kat-ask-yoo-ad’-zo, means to build, make, ordain, or prepare thoroughly and properly by external equipment. Lamplighter Ministries has a two-fold focus: preparing people to serve the Lord through internal character development and external career preparation. The words “ready” and “prepared” form the foundation for our mission at Lamplighter. We are building Christ-like character internally through inspiring and godly role models, and motivating individuals to live a life of excellence through external opportunities that cultivate their God-given abilities into the highest level of skill and excellence.
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Have you grown up in a home with a divorced parent, or do you know someone who has grown up with divorced parents? How does God work with a broken family and make something good of it?
When we’ve passed into eternity, what will we be remembered for?
On today’s episode of Fastened Like Nails, Dr. Hamby and Molly welcome Valentina and her son-in-law Victor into the studio. From living as a Christian in the former Soviet Union to now being the matriarch of her family, Valentina invites us into her life and shares her heart’s deepest desire: to pass down the truth of Christ to her family. Her story is a testament that even in the most difficult times, God is good and works everything together for good. Tune in today and hear how, with God in our lives, we can leave a legacy greater than anything we can imagine.
Did you know that the word “Father” appears in the New Testament 369 times? However, in the Quran, God isn’t referred to as a Father once! When we think of the Trinity, we generally say “God, the Father” first. This belief in God as our father is one of the central tenets of our faith.
On today’s episode of Fastened Like Nails, Dr. Hamby, Molly Mayo, and a current Master’s Guild student delve into what it means to have God as our Father. The idea of us being adopted into God’s family is a common topic, but how often do we stop to think that God had to forsake His Son to adopt us as sons and daughters? Perhaps this idea of being adopted means more to our faith than we ever realized. Listen in to Fastened Like Nails and discover just how far God went to make you His child.
Before the Israelites left their slavery in Egypt, Moses required that they plunder the Egyptians of all their wealth. This seems pretty harsh. Why did God want the Israelites to take even more of what was left of Egypt? And how does that apply to our relationships today?
When you hear someone sneeze, what’s your reaction? Typically, people say “Bless you”. Or, how many times have you signed off an email with “Blessings”? A blessing is clearly a good thing, but what does “blessing” or “being blessed” actually mean?
On today’s episode of Fastened Like Nails, Dr. Mark Hamby and co-host Molly Mayo are joined by Masters Guild student Lucy Blend for an exciting journey centered around this “well-known” word. Listen in to discover how repetition in the Bible reveals surprising truth and how blessing others might just have the power to change lives—including your own.
Bonus Content: Listen to exclusive songs from Lamplighter Theatre's first ever musical— "Hungering and Thirsting"! Purchase your own copy here: https://lamplighter.net/product/dramatic-audio-cd-hungering-and-thirsting/.
On today’s episode of Fastened Like Nails, Dr. Mark Hamby and co-host Molly Mayo welcome a very special guest to the mic—Sissy Seagull from Patch the Pirate.
Shelly Hamilton, founder of Majesty Music and the voice behind the beloved musical audio drama series Patch the Pirate, shares the remarkable story of how God birthed a ministry of song and story through deep personal trial. What began with the loss of an eye became the spark for a worldwide ministry that has shaped the hearts and faith of generations of children and families.
This conversation traces the origin of the Patch the Pirate and “You Are There” series, revealing how God uses suffering to strengthen faith, refine obedience, and produce lasting fruit. As Shelly shares candidly about sorrow, surrender, and trusting God when things “go south,” listeners are reminded that our faith is often forged in trial.
“For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.” (Romans 8:18, NKJV)
Conflict is inevitable. How we respond makes all the difference.
On today’s episode of Fastened Like Nails, Dr. Mark Hamby is joined by board members Shad Bolen and Dr. Lew Sterrett for a candid and challenging conversation on how to deal with conflict biblically. Scripture reminds us, “A soft answer turns away wrath” (Proverbs 15:1, NKJV). How do we live that out, practically?
Hurt, irritation, and exposure are inevitable, but we must admit our reactions before we can exchange our attitudes for something good. This episode explores persuasion over dominance, the put off/put on principle, and why denial keeps us stuck.
We also discuss timing—why cooling off matters, why avoiding someone may signal the need to speak, and how “a word fitly spoken” is a great trophy (Proverbs 25:11, NKJV). Discover how humility can neutralize hostility and how to endure hardship as good soldiers of Christ (2 Timothy 2:3).
Today we’re reposting Part Two from our 2019 archives. In this episode, Lamplighter Guild instructor Pastor Colin Smith highlights Esther’s journey from fear and insecurity to boldly stepping into the role God designed specifically for her—for such a time as this.
Please note: this podcast was recorded live in 2019 and not in the studio, so the sound quality may vary.
Take a heart-gripping journey with the Trevors and discover a truth powerful enough to destroy besetting sin and expose the darkness of the human heart. Purchase your copy of The Haunted Room at: https://lamplighter.net/product/the-haunted-room/.
Today we’re reposting a powerful episode from our 2019 archives—one that is just as timely now as when it was first recorded. Lamplighter Guild instructor Pastor Colin Smith immerses students into the world of ancient Persia through the story of Esther, issuing a compelling call to return to femininity and masculinity rooted in God’s design. This is a message worth hearing again.
Please note: this podcast was recorded live in 2019 and not in the studio, so the sound quality may vary.
The battle continues to rage—moment by moment and day by day. But must we face the enemy blindfolded? To conquer, we must first recognize the real foe. Through this rich allegorical tale, listeners are equipped to identify and slay the Giants that confront them.
You can continue this journey by purchasing The Giant Killer at: https://lamplighter.net/product/giant-killer-dramatic-audio-mp3-download/
On this special episode of Fastened Like Nails, Dr. Mark Hamby is joined in the studio by board members Shad Bolen and Lew Sterrett, along with Masters Guild student Lucy Blend and co-host Molly Mayo. Together, they pull back the curtain on life inside The Masters Guild and the Lamplighter community, sharing stories, insights, and behind-the-scenes moments you won’t hear anywhere else.
What’s a day really like for a Masters Guild student? How does life at Lamplighter look from the board’s perspective? And what makes the experience so deeply transformative? Tune in for an engaging conversation filled with honest reflections and inside perspectives from the team.
Today on Fastened Like Nails, Dr. Mark Hamby and Molly Mayo welcome Dr. Lew Sterrett for a thoughtful conversation on seeking God first and trusting Him to carry us through every season of life. They reflect on the miraculous way our bodies are designed to heal, while also considering how easily we can become captive to our physical circumstances when the Great Physician offers true and lasting healing. This episode gently challenges a victim mentality and points listeners toward hope, faith, and wholeness found in Christ.
Today on Fastened Like Nails, Dr. Mark Hamby, Molly Mayo, and Dr. Lew Sterrett share their all-time favorite Bible verses, talk about spiritual weight lifting, identify each other's key character traits, and discuss their collective wisdom through life experiences and knowledge of the scriptures! Listen in for an inspiring range of topics extending from the aroma of Christ to the utterings of Wisdom in Proverbs.
We all shrink from circumstances that are out of our control. But what if God has a deeper purpose in trials than we ever imagined?
This week on Fastened Like Nails, Dr. Mark Hamby, Molly Mayo, and Dr. Lew Sterrett explore Psalm 119:75, “in faithfulness you have afflicted me,” and delve into God’s ultimate purpose in affliction - to draw our self-reliant hearts back to Himself.
“Before I was afflicted I went astray, but now I keep your word.” - 119:67
Open your Bible to Matthew chapter 1 and read the 14 generations of Jesus' lineage. Wait! You can only find 13! Where is this missing generation? Why are they missing in the first place? When you find out who this person is, your expectations of what God can do and how much grace He has will be stretched indefinitely!
Once in a while God does something so unusual that you know only He could have done it. Join Mark Hamby as he interviews two master craftsmen, Tom and Dave, who are living examples of the Biblical characters, Oholiab and Bezalel (Exodus 31, 35-36). Prepare to be inspired as you seek to use the gifts and skills God has placed in your hands to bless those around you. Unsure of what you have to offer? Hear how even a daily carpool routine can be used for the glory of God.
The Giant Killer
https://lamplighter.net/product/giant-killer-dramatic-audio-mp3-download/
The Masters Guild
https://themastersguild.net
Traverse several years ago as Dr. Mark Hamby and the Lamplighter Staff enjoy morning devotions. Reading Joshua 17, we learn that the people of Israel did not completely remove the former nations from the Promised Land. Others wanted additional territory instead of cultivating the land God had assigned them. This podcast will encourage you to take steps of faith, clear the trees in your life, and expand the opportunities God has placed before you.
Deep into the Vale of Promise ventures a young knight, Sir Constant, who desires nothing more than to be in service of the Great King. Though unworthy of this high calling, he sets forth on the perilous road that all who desire to serve the King must take - the Splendid Way. His heart, courage, valour, and faith will be tested. His strength and endurance will be challenged. And his allegiance to the one true King will be proven. A richly dramatized allegory wrought with biblical truth.
Purchase your copy of Sir Knight of the Splendid Way at: https://lamplighter.net/product/sir-knight-of-the-splendid-way-dramatic-audio-mp3-download/
The views and opinions expressed in this podcast do not necessarily reflect the beliefs and mission of Lamplighter Ministries. Our standard is the Bible, and we encourage listeners to always test everything heard in this podcast against the truths of Scripture.
Does “sweetness” characterize your speech?
In this episode of Fastened Like Nails, Dr. Hamby and Molly Mayo welcome Lamplighter Theatre actor Jake Phillips to the podcast. Together, they reflect on the wisdom of Proverbs 16:21: “Sweetness of the lips increaseth learning.” Jake also shares personal insights into what God is teaching him through John 13.
Tune in for a gentle reminder about the power of responding with “sweetness,” and a heartfelt conversation about trusting God through trials and circumstances we may not yet understand.
“What I am doing you do not understand now, but afterward you will understand.” — John 13:7
1“A new commandment I give to you: love one another.” (John 13:34)
Do you find it difficult to love those who challenge you? Does the Christian life sometimes feel overwhelming? You are not alone.
Many of us assume we must generate love ourselves to obey Christ, yet He promises that if we ask anything in His name, He will provide it. Like branches joined to a vine, we cannot bear fruit apart from Him—but connected to the Vine, we can experience the joy of His love flowing through us.
In today’s episode, Dr. Mark Hamby and Molly Mayo welcome Norm Wakefield to explore John 13–15. Together, they examine the profound meaning behind Jesus’s words: “In my Father’s house are many mansions… I go to prepare a place for you,” offering insight and encouragement for living in the love of Christ.
Resource Mentioned on the Show: https://livetolovewithjesus.com
This week on Fastened Like Nails, Dr. Mark Hamby and Dr. Lew Sterrett unpack the world’s rising hostility toward God’s Word—and why we shouldn’t be shaken by it. What if persecution isn’t a setback, but a setup for revival? Just ask Saul, who went from hunting Christians to spreading the gospel. Even the fiercest persecutors can become God’s mightiest instruments! And as history shows, whenever the Church faces pressure, she always answers with greater passion and boldness for Christ. Tune in for a timely reminder that God’s light shines brightest in the dark!
Amidst unimaginable suffering, Radha Manickam heard a whisper: “I have a plan for your life.”
On this episode of Fastened Like Nails, Dr. Mark Hamby and Molly Mayo welcome Radha Manickam on the podcast to tell the incredible story of how God brought him through the Khmer Rouge takeover of Cambodia. Evacuated from his home and forced to work on 3 hours of sleep and one spoonful of rice per meal, Radha testifies to suffering, loss, survival…. but most of all, the faithfulness of God.
“Trust in the LORD forever, for the LORD God is an everlasting rock” - Isaiah 26:4
Resources Mentioned on the Show:
“Intended for Evil” by Les Sillars
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