The 318 Project

It is through God’s divine guidance that God's shows us the path that He has for each individual's life. This guidance comes from being discipled. This can be as a child and your parents teaching you the “rights and wrongs” for your actions and behavior. Or it comes from a teacher or counselor helping you learn skills for as you grow and use in life. As christians, we get guidance from our pastors and evangelists that bring a word from God to strengthen, encourage, correct or rebuke us. But each of us should have a close relationship with a leader or mentor that is discipling us. Paul wrote letters to Timothy and Titus as their mentor to strengthen them as leaders. This is what discipleship is about. This is evident when Paul told Timothy in 2 Timothy chapter three verses 16 & 17 that “All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction for training in righteousness; so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work.” You know that the Word of God is inspired or God breathed and that it is useful for the training and edification of the saints. So how does each person apply this in their individual life?There are 4 points that Paul shared with Timothy in those verses that I am going to share. Two of them are on beliefs, what we should or shouldn’t believe. The other two are on behavior, what each of us should or shouldn’t do. Teaching-These are instructions through God’s Word. God reveals His Word through His Spirit to us. 1 Corinthians  2:12-13John 6:64Psalms 71:17Colossians 3:16Rebuking-This is when God through the Holy Spirit brings conviction of sinful actions.1 Timothy 2"141 Corinthian 15:33 Proverbs 15:32Romans 8 :51 John 2:16Titus 3 :3Correction-This is a revealing of bad behavior that comes from conviction of those sinful actions.Proverbs 15:32 Proverbs 10:17 Proverbs 3:11-12 Proverbs 19:20Righteous training. This is developing the right behavior of what God wants you to do and act. Romans 7:61 Peter chapter 3:11 timothy 2:14Titus 2 :11 Peter 1:15 1 Peter 3:17Ephesians 5:1- 21 Corinthians 11:1In conclusion, I want to go back to those verses in 2 Timothy chapter 3, but this time as you read it, insert your personal name, where it says “man of God”. It would sound like this” All Scripture is inspired by God and is profitable for teaching, for rebuking, for correcting, for training righteousness, so that Ryan Hare, may be complete, equipped for every good work.Music - Egg Rollz by Jobii Baegel https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/YyZZD5KjMd/Buzzsprout - Let's get your podcast launched! Start for FREEPodpage Build a beautiful podcast website in 5 minutes.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show

So often we feel it is easy to purchase that new home or car and not worry about the cost, but then the first payment comes or a costly repair and your appreciation for that item diminishes.How about with your marriage?Or even your relationship with God?In this episode, I share about how God sees the true value in each of us no matter what you and I have gone through in life. You may have that feeling that you are worthless and junk just like an old abandoned house or vehicle, but God doesn't see junk only a Masterpiece and is worthy of being a FIXER UPPER.Scripture:Mark 4:14-20Matthew 25:14-30Music: Links providedIntro segment- Eye of the Newscaster by Out to the Worldhttps://www.epidemicsound.com/track/K4Xu4Jlesc/Outro segment - Kid on the Move by El Flaco Collective https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/h8KuCiV7Al/ZWOAoXeM5bRMM0dqFmQvSupport the show

The 318 Project is taking a short mid-season break.I recently took on a new role in the Fire Department and my schedule is changing from a 24/48 schedule to a Monday-Friday routine. Because of this change and going through training for this position, it has left me little time to concentrate on the podcast.The 318 Project is NOT ENDING, but simply taking a short hiatus.New episodes will return starting on Thursday, June 2nd, 2022. Until then, I challenge you to go back to the previous episodes that you haven't heard yet or one that stood out to you  and listen to them.Music:So Get Ready by spring gang on epidemic soundhttps://www.epidemicsound.com/track/wCVDLnVW3f/Support the show

Do you remember in school when a classmate would whisper or make a noise just loud enough to get your attention while hoping that the teacher did not hear it?Maybe you remember when your wife, an old girlfriend or even that first crush you had in school came up and whispered something sweet into your ear for only you to hear it.How about those times when you were outside playing and it was getting dark and you heard your mom or dad yell your name so that the whole neighborhood heard it, that it was time to come home for dinner?Do you feel like you are waiting to hear God shout your name to speak to you?Many times when you read the Bible it would say that God spoke to someone; but was it always in an audible voice?In this episode, I talk about the different ways God spoke to the saints in the Old and New testament.There are other ways that God can speak to us that lets us know what He wants each of to hear.It may be through a feeling about a situation, or when a Bible verse stands out to you at that moment. Maybe it is another Christian brother or sister that brings a word of encouragement; or even a worship song  that lifts your spirit. Scripture References:John 10:271 Samuel 3:2-10Exodus 3:1-4Acts 9:3-7Joshua 5:13-151 Kings 19:11-13Music in this episode:Intro - "Whisper Out" by Mica Emory https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/t2XvNhSaax/"In the Cool of the Day" by JOYSPRING https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/1ZegjHOK1L/Support the show

Did your parent ever tell you to "Don't throw the ball in the house"?What Happened when you disobeyed and broke a bowl, plate, or special figurine?Did you try to hide what you did by gluing the broken pieces back together?More than likely after your parents found out and the ceramic ware couldn't be fixed it was thrown out in the trash.You probably feel the same way after some of the things that have happened in your life that you are junk and that God has no need for you and just discards you.In this episode, I share about how God can use the broken pieces of your life to create something wonderful and even more valuable that the original.I talk about how a trip to St. Peterburg, Russia and seeing the mosaic artwork at the Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood reminded me of how God can use those broken pieces to make a masterpiece.I also share about the ancient Japanese artform called "Kintsugi" and how an artist will take a broken ceramic ware and add something special to fill the cracks to make it more valuable than before.Scriptures:Isaiah 64:8Jeremiah 18:4Ephesians 2:10To check out the music in this episode:Introduction- "Dust till Dawn" by Dusty Decks https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/FhKgzwY2Jm/"Broken Pieces" by Gavin Luke https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/J5X91AXv9G/Support the show

What does it look like to have an encourager in your life?We all want to have people that will speak life and encouragement to us when we are going through a trial or crisis.Does that person have a selfish or selfish agenda?Are they looking for way to lift you up even if it means they take a back seat to your accomplishments?Do you have a BARNABAS your life?What was so special about Barnabas?He is mentioned only in a few chapters in Acts, 1 Corinthians, Galatians and Colossians; yet he had such an impact that the majority of the New Testament was written by those he encouraged.In this episode, I will share with you the 3 key character traits that Barnabas displayed and how we can apply those same traits in our lives to be an encouragement to others. We can also us these key areas for what to look for in a person that we are seeking as a mentor.1. He was a good man2. He was full of the Holy Spirit 3. He was strong in his faithScriptures:Acts 4:36,37Acts 9:27Acts 11:24 ( 3 key character traits)Acts 13-152 Timothy 4:11Music:Intro - It's Time by Ealot - https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/4XvPw1VzFE/Train of Thought by Ealot- https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/wXHX9VhnF8/Support the show

Do you have an armorbearer? In the Bible, you only see an armor bearer mentioned in the Old Testament, but the same duties and responsibilities continue on even today.An armor bearer was a young man that would carry the weapons and shield of the man he was under, much like a knight's squire that would carry the weapons into combat, but also use the shield to protect his master. Over time he would train and even be able to fight alongside the warrior or knight. Sometimes the armor bearer would use the shield or weapon to protect or defend the flank of his master. In 1 Samuel 14: 1-14 we read of Jonathan and his armor bearer defeating the Philistines. We see that David became Saul's armor bearer in 1 Samuel 16:21But it isn't just about having one person, there are times you need a full garrison of brothers. The foundation of the 318 Project comes from Genesis 14:14. Here we see that Lot was taken captive and Abraham raised up with his 318 men and servants that were trained in his household to go and rescue Lot. Proverbs 17:17  says " A friend loves at all times, but a brother is born for adversity." Proverbs 27:17 "As iron sharpens iron, so a man sharpens the countenance of his friends."To sharpen a sword or weapon means that it has been used in a battle and has been dented, chipped and gotten dull from hitting against the enemies armor and shield. As an armor bearer and brother in arms that is what we are required to do for our fellow brothers. We may see their flaws, just as they see ours and through guidance and prayer allow the Holy Spirit to mend us. The thing is that Satan doesn't just attack us from the same direction. He may first  come at us with a frontal assault then the next time a sneak attack from behind or end tries to side swipe you or me, that is why we need brothers praying for us on all sides, almost like we are covered in a box on all six sides.Going back to David, Over time he rose from being just a young shepherd that became King Saul’s armor bearer,  to became King David that had his mighty warriors that stood out as his elite force of mighty men that is stated in 2 Samuel 23:8-36. Many of these warriors risked their lives because they believed in King David.He even had his army of 600 men that followed him when he was running from King Saul. Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 talks about the value of a friend.. When you and I read it, we tend to associate it with marriage , but this also applies to any friendship. This is that unity and bond that when the enemy comes and attacks you, there is strength in numbers to overcome and defeat Satan.So as I am coming to a close, my challenge to you is to start praying about and looking for those brothers that you can unite with that will be your band of brothers, but also that you can be theirs also. It isn’t just to say that you have a brother by your side, but to also know that they won’t abandon you in times of trouble. I want to encourage you to really search for that man that will be a mentor and brother in your life, but to also look for those men that you can be a mentor and brother to help encourage them.Music from Epidemic Sound:song during Intro: Choirs of War by Dream Cave- https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/FR6Ed05Tc0/Isong - The Gallant Squire by Jon Bjork https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/8nGHn5OQSj/Anvil sound effect -https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/ysH73yQcGi/Support the show

You and I have seen so many types of relationships and the different ways men and women have shown love for each other. Some have been healthy relationships and marriages that worked, while there have been harmful ones where the man or woman felt that even though it was a hostile environment that they needed to stay; or did leave the relationship because of a bad situation.How do you view your relationship with God? Or do you have a full understanding of the relationship that God wants to have with you?Many people would view it as a hard discipling Father that wants to punish you when you mess up and sin. Others see Him as a passive Father that just created the universe and then just left it alone. Maybe you see it as to how your mother and father were to you or to each other?But, do you know that God wants to have a deep and intimate relationship with each and every person.When you think of intimacy, is it usually in that close personal relationship with your spouse in bed. The definition of intimacy is a close friendship, a deep knowledge of a subject, a private atmosphere, or closeness to someone or something.This can be stated in having an intimate knowledge of details about a person, place or event like sports statistics or movie quotes. Maybe it is being in a nice, quiet and romantic place or simply being close to someone such as holding, embracing or hugging someone.The word “Intimacy” itself isn’t mentioned in the Bible, but God did show us how He wants to have an intimate relationship with Him.There are several examples of intimate friendships that weren’t of a sexual nature in the Bible. There was the love that Jonathan and David had for each other as mentioned in 1 Samuel chapter 18. Then we see in the New Testament how John was called “The Beloved One” and we see him at the Last Supper with his head resting on the chest of Jesus. Both of these are examples of an intimate and caring friendship.But something with John stood out to me when it said he rested his head on the chest of Jesus. Think about your marriage or relationship and when your spouse is lying beside you and lays their head on your chest. At that moment their ear is next to your body and depending on which side, over your heart they can hear your heart beating. That is what God is wanting from each of us. He wants you and I to draw close to Him and hear what His heart is saying to each of us. That is the moment of intimacy that we can truly have with God.The word “Love” is mentioned the most times in the book of Psalms.Why is that?Maybe ,because David spent so much time with God in prayer while he was out in the fields watching the sheep that he had those intimate moments with God and even mentioned as “A man after God’s own heart”How was that even when David stumbled and fell, made mistakes that God still called him that. It was because of those close personal times in prayer and worship. Dr. Cole said that “Prayer produces intimacy. You become intimate with the one for whom you pray, with whom you pray and to Whom you pray.”When we get in a place that you and I can focus and not allow the distractions of the world around us to interfere, then we can truly get into the presence of God and have those intimate times with Him. In Psalms, each time the word “Love” was mentioned it was preceded by the word “faithful” or “unfailing”. When you read about the greatest type of Love that is mentioned it is called “Agape”, which means unconditional love. And that is how God showed us His love. It is that unconditional, faithful and unfailing love that even when we fall, mess up or even walk away from Him, that He still loves you and me.Scripture:Matthew 11:28-30John 3:16,17Romans 5:81 John 4:16James 4:8Support the show

We have all probably grown up with the James Bond movies and the image of the character that is presented with him. If you are like me, you probably even saw yourself as the suave, debonair, mysterious man who got all the gorgeous women, drove the greatest cars and had all the cool gadgets. In every movie, he always was with the most attractive woman that was irresistible to his charm even if it cost her life. As a spy working for the Queen and country he still had an image to uphold that included being well dressed in a tuxedo that was custom fit. He had stylish and expensive cars along with all the latest gadgets created to help him out of any situation. This all seemed to come at no cost or expense to him and no concern for them. It seems that he had the Girls, Gold and Glory.So why do so many men feel that they have to do everything in their power to emulate this fictional character?Like many things, guys tend to fantasize about getting the girl, winning the big game, being rich or having super powers while feeling like they are stuck in a dull average Joe life. When you really look at it though, Bond may have had all those things, but he tended to be a loner. Yes, he had what many psychologists would say is an ISTP type of personality. This type of person is practical yet great at handling a crisis and resourceful. He prefers to be alone yet outgoing as an Introvert. He would be sensing depending on his senses and observation skills. His thinking would be based on logical decisions and not just going on his feelings. Finally, he would be a perceiver in that he is a non-planner and never plans what he is about to do.Now you may be thinking, how does this apply to me as a Christian man?In 1 John 2:16, it says “For all that is in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—is not of the Father but is of the world.”Girls- the lust of the FleshGold- the lust of the EyesGlory- the Pride of LifeNow Dr. Cole said that “Lust is the desire to get at the expense of others, while love desires to give at the expense of self.” This is evident when you see Bond in that he uses women as an object for most parts to get information from them, help him to get to the bad guy (which usually gets her killed) or simply to use them for his sexual pleasure. Even Jesus was tempted. In Hebrews 2:18 it says “ Jesus was tempted in every way as we were. For in that He Himself has suffered, being tempted, He is able to aid those who are tempted.”With the James Bond syndrome, we see how these same issues can cause men to get caught up in the traps of sin. You can even see how many want to have that Peter Pan or Playboy lifestyle that they don’t want to grow up and take responsibility for their actions or to have that image of a rich lifestyle and have anyone or anything they want and then discard it when they are done with it. We have too many lives, marriages and families destroyed because of the temptation of Satan to try and live up to a glamorous lifestyle that God hasn’t intended for them and to later fall or destroy lives trying to reach it. Music is "Car on the Corner" by V. V. Campos https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/4mzm5x9ruQ/Support the show

In this episode, my guest host Cliff Hare shares a message about the Five sins that kept the children of Israel out of Canaan.It is those same five sins that can keep you and I from reaching God's Promise Land that He has for our lives.This teaching is taken from the book "Maximized Manhood" by Dr. Edwin Louis Cole.0:00 - Intro1:58 - Beginning of message and Introduction by Cliff Hare.2:48 - Canaan Land is that place that many see as Heaven.5:15 - Dr. Cole's direction to call men that are craving direction in their lives.5:52 - Story about the TV show Monk and how it relates to men wandering for                     direction.7:44 - Direction from God8:09-  The Five sins mentioned by Dr. Cole in Maximized Manhood.8:21-  #1 LUST - The desire to benefit self at the expense of others.                Love is the desire to give as mentioned in John 3:169:28-   #2 IDOLITRY - Esteeming something more worthy of our devotion than                devotion to God.11:07-#3 FORNICATION - Every kind of sexual sin.12:55-#4 TEMPTING GOD - Demanding that God do what is contrary to His                 character.  The characteristics of the kingdom emanate from the                                      character of the king.15:14-#5 MURMURING - The negative confession                Psalms 19:1418:20- Conclusion -                 Scriptures: 1 Corinthians 10:6-10                 1 Peter 2:9                John 17:15-1722:07- OutroTransition sound provided by:Nerve by Dream Cave courtesy of www.epidemicsound.comSupport the show

This is the third episode in a series that I am highlighting segments from guest of previous episodes that I interviewed.In this final series my guest talk about restoration of their marriage, programs that help young men and women, helping overcome the struggles of depression, understanding the gifts and anointing of the Holy Spirit,  help men and dads add "Life" to their children by being intention with their involvement and finally about a Father's Affirmation.Segment #1- Bett Harvey shares about Men's Encounter North. He also talks about how God saved his life and marriage through a men's Bible study and a book "Maximized Manhood" by Dr. Edwin Louis Cole.Segment #2- Tony Rorie talks about the Men and Ladies of Honor program that he started as a school principle to help troubled kids and to instill honor, respect, courage and chivalry in a strong character.Segment #3-  Dr. Rob Carman shares about the struggles society has with depression and how the toxicity of the mind with the trash we see and hear impacts us to the point of breaking and how to clear those thoughts by praying and reading God's Word.Segment #4- Pastor David Bendett talks about how we as Christians can and should allow the gifts of the Holy Spirit to operate in our lives.Segment #5- Jeff Zaugg tells about the framework he developed after he had done 100 episodes of his podcast, Dad Awesome. He uses this to help men and father be intentional in adding Life to the Dad Life.Segment #6- Cliff & David Hare share about what a Father's Affirmation means and the impact it can have on a child's life. They talk about even in times of feeling as a failure as a parent can still have a positive impact on a child's life.Transition music provided by Epidemic Sound. Title of the transition sound is "Make the Call" by Jay Varton https://www.epidemicsound.com/track/xWQCSS8nNg/Support the show

In this episode, I am featuring guests that shared their testimony or a point that truly stood out and helped them in their life.I have take a segment from seven guest that I felt stood out from those previous podcast episode interviews. Some of them will be about how God saved their lives and marriages, while others are sharing a point of transition with work and ministry.Segment #1- Todd Smith and how his boys responded during the divorce and restoration of his marriage.Segment #2 - Chris Newton shares about the darkest moment but how he still saw the presence of God on his life and his Road to Damascus encounter with God.Segment #3 - Jay Parker shares how God saved his life and marriage through a phone call to his wife on Mother's Day that led him to going to church with her that day and being delivered from drugs and alcohol.Segment #4 - Mick Moffitt shares the 7 pillars that he God gave him to structure on helping fire recruits understand what describes the character of a person.Segment #5- Shaun Miles talks about finding a peace through the fear of death and being alone; and that our lives are in God's hands and how He wants us to finish strong.Segment #6 - Paul & Maria Muzichuk both share how they each processed dealing with advice of holding onto faith after being told that their son was diagnosed with Autism.Segment #7 -  Betty King shares about a wife's perspective of men's ministry and how it not only benefits the man, but the wife and children.Support the show

In this episode, I wanted to take some time and go back over several of the previous episodes that I have done and share some highlights from a few guests. I will be doing this over the next few episodes just as a reflection of the different guests that I have had so far and just do a small retrospective look at key moments that stood out to me with the guests that I have had, and highlight those moments to help encourage you from these previous episodes.Segment #1- Lee Grady and the 4 hats of a mentorSegment #2- Eddie Taylor shared the Acronym F. A. T. (Faithful, Available & Teachable) for what to look for in a mentor or disciple.Segment #3- Jody Burkeen shares the 7 areas in a man's life that they can be spiritually weak in.Segment #4- Desmond Frey answers the question "What is the #1 tip that you can give other men as they mentor and disciple other men?Segment #5- Pastor Joaquin Molina shared the effects of defective and absent fathering in society.Segment #6- Doug Stringer talked about the 4 areas that the Church has had to overcome for the past 2,000 years.Segment #7- Paul Cole discussed the definition of Manhood and Maturity.Support the show

What is your first thought when you think back to school and having to take History?Did you enjoy learning about the history of your country and the people back then? Or did you dread it and feel that history was nothing more than dates and dead people?Did you feel like it had no meaning or relevance to your life today?Have you taken the time to understand why a memorial or monument was built; and the significance it had for being built?What if I told you that God has a purpose for memorials and monuments in our lives?So thinking back as a kid, I remember going to Washington D.C. and seeing the different monuments honoring leaders or memorials to remember those that gave their lives in the Vietnam and Korean War. For me, seeing those images or names felt like such an honor to know that so many gave their lives for our freedom.Then we went to see several battle grounds of the Civil War such as Gettysburg. That feeling I had when I walked along the fields and saw the monuments honoring the men that gave their lives on both sides of the war. But as a Christian, what do monuments and memorials have to do with our salvation?Many people in the Bible, especially in the Old Testament, would build an altar, monument or memorial to remind them of what God did for them or reveal Himself to them in a mighty and miraculous way.In Joshua chapter 4, we see that God placed Joshua to lead the children of Israel after Moses. They are about to cross the Jordan River when the Lord gives Joshua a command about what they should do once they cross. Before Joshua, God had given Moses instructions about what should be done during the first Passover. In Exodus chapter 12 God tells Moses that this day will be a memorial and that when the children ask why we do this, to remind them of what God did as He passed over the houses of the Israelites while they were in Egypt.Then in chapter 13, God tells Moses what to say to the future generations when they ask why they redeemed the first born lamb as a sacrifice, which again was a reminder of the Passover and being brought out of Egypt.Finally in Deuteronomy, God tells Moses on again to remind the children of Israel and the future generations of how God delivered them from the hands of Pharaoh and the Egyptians.Then in 1 Samuel chapter 7 verse 12 it tells of Samuel setting a large stone and calling it “Ebenezer” to remind the Israelites of the great difficulty they had with the Philistines, but that God had rescued them. This was to be a reminder of a critical turning point in their past and that God had helped them through it to the present time. Memorials can help you and me remember God’s past victories in our past and help us gain confidence and strength for the future.Even the Pilgrims had a memorial that they did when celebrating surviving those first couple of harsh winters. They would take 5 kernels of corn before they ate as a memorial to remind them of the times that it was difficult and the food supply was low and that all they had as rations were 5 kernels of corn to eat each day. Once through those hard times and now having  a bountiful crop and meat they wanted to remind the future generations of the sacrifice they made.That is what God has for us. He wants us to remember at times where we have come from. That is where our testimony comes from. It isn’t to dwell on the past faults, failures, struggles and sins; but to remind us of what God brought us out of to call us His Children. The truth is that YOU are that monument.Song:Chaxti/Eighties Kid/courtesy of www.epidemicsound.comSupport the show

Do you remember as a kid when your parents sent you to do a chore or task?Maybe you thought, "I'm the favorite if they asked me to do this", or "they don't like me if I have to do this chore"?Probably once you were old enough to drive they asked you to run errands for them.Do you feel the same way when God wants you to do something for Him?Clifford Hare, President of Faithful Men Ministries, talks about how God used certain men and how their natural  fathers sent them for an assignment.In Genesis chapter 37, we see that Jacob loved his son Joseph. Jacob made him a coat and it even says in the chapter how he was his favorite and had him go check on his brothers.Then in 1 Samuel chapters 16 &17 we see the opposite. Jesse had several sons including David and when the prophet Samuel came to anoint the next king, Jesse didn't even consider David and had him out in the field watching the sheep.Later you see that Jesse does send David also to check on his brothers when Israel was battling the Philistines and how God used David to defeat Goliath.In Matthew chapter 21, Jesus tells the parable of the evil vinedressers and how the owner of the fields left them to harvest the field and after he had sent several servants to get the harvest from them, he decided to send his son, who they then killed. So how does that apply to us with God?In Galatians 4 verses 4 through 7 it tells you and me that we have become son's of God through the inheritance and adoption through faith in Jesus; and that we aren't just heirs, but joint-heirs with Christ.God is sending each of us to further His Kingdom. Just as Jesus told the disciples in Matthew 28 verses 19 & 20 that we are to Go forth and make disciples and share the Gospel in the Great Commission.God will remind you that you were created for such a time as this and that He has a purpose and plan for each of us. You may feel that you aren't smart enough, strong enough or talented as others that you see, but God has a specific plan for you .Even when others will reject you and it may feel tough, sometimes He requires us to get out of our comfort zones to do what He has called us to do.References:Genesis 37:31 Samuel Chapter 16 & 17Matthew 21:33-45Galatians 4:4-7Romans 8:16-17Matthew 28:19-20Support the show

Have you had those moments in your life where it felt like everything was going the wrong way?You were serving God and being faithful, yet it felt like every step forward in your walk with Christ resulted in what seemed like 10 steps backwards.Finally you got to the point that you thought why am I doing all of this if I am getting nowhere stronger in my faith.Maybe you were dealing with a financial crisis, marriage troubles, depression or just the stresses of life seem to be piling up all at once.Yet something inside you kept reminding you to hold on, don’t give up and KEEP MOVING FORWARD.Many times we are going through  a season of change and God is wanting to take us to a closer relationship with Him and that requires us to go through some tough times. Sometimes those around us may not understand or even feel resentment at where God is taking you.In your mind you may even think that it would be easier to “go back to the way things were” so that there isn’t  as much stress or worry. Maybe you feel like giving up on a calling from God, what feels like a dead end job or even hopeless marriage. But, that is not what God has for you.In Proverbs 16:9 it says “The mind of man plans his way, But the Lord directs his steps.”In Joshua 6:6-7, he tells  them  “Take up the ark of the covenant, and let seven priests carry seven trumpets of rams’ horns before the ark of the Lord.” Then he said to the people, “Go forward, and march around the city, and let the armed men go on before the ark of the Lord.”In Genesis chapter 19, we see what happened to someone that did look about at what they were leaving behind. In verse 17 one of the angels tells Lot “Escape for your life! Do not look behind you, and do not stay anywhere in the valley; escape to the mountains, or you will be swept away.” But then in verse 26 we see that as fire and brimstone came upon the city that Lot’s wife looked back and was instantly turned to a pillar of salt. Her heart was still toward the things of her past that were being destroyed and it was difficult to let them go.When it seems like old habits or addictions want to rise up and you feel tempted to give into those urges, because it seems like it will take the pain or stress away, even if for just a few moments.In Luke 9 verses 61-62 Jesus is talking with several of His followers when one asks him a question, "And another also said, “Lord, I will follow You, but let me first go and bid them farewell who are at my house. But Jesus said to him, “No one, having put his hand to the plow, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God.”Dr. Cole says in his book Never Quit that “ so often in times of crisis, we think of escaping from something, some undesirable place or condition. We think in terms of avoiding crisis, problems, difficulties, punishment, correction and the hard issues of life because we are basically negative by nature.  When we deal with change in a godly way, we will multiply, or increase rather than decrease.”In Philippians 3:12-14 “Not that I have already attained, or am already perfected; but I press on, that I may lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me. Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.”And then in 2 Timothy 4:7 Paul reminds Timothy, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith."That is what I want to remind you that even in those difficult times, when it seems like all hope is lost and there is no way out, God wants you to keep looking forward to him. “Moving Forward” by Israel Houghton. Support the show

Have you ever felt like all that you were doing was just enough to survive?Do you have a calling in your life that God wants to use you, but feel like after some time those opportunities will never happen and you just settle into being a faithful Christian?Does it feel like the calling has died?In episode 42, I am going to share with you about the Shunamite woman and Elisha and how God doesn’t want you to settle for good, but to seek and hold onto what is His Best for your life.Our settling for good, isn't God's Best! 2 Kings 4:8-37 - Elisha and the Shunammite woman. Elisha Raises the Shunammite’s SonGod's promise and His resurrected promiseGod can answer your prayer and even meet the needs that you don't take about, but know that you need.How many times has someone asked you “How are things?” or “How are you doing?” and you just say “I am good.” Even when you know that you are dealing with something, but don’t want to share. Has someone asked you about a need and they were willing and able to help provide for that need; but you didn’t want to share or say what you really needed?Down the road as time passes, the dream or promise may feel like it is dying or is dead, but God can resurrect that promise that He gave you in a prodigal child, a job, financial needs, overcoming an addiction and restoring a marriage that is facing divorce.To have a resurrection you have to die, usually to self. This is represented when we get baptized in that it represents the killing of the old man of flesh and resurrected in the new man in Christ.What dream or purpose has God given you that needs to be resurrected?There is a time that the children of Israel were given the promise of Canaan, but wandered in the wilderness for 40 years and many felt that the promise had died as many of them had died in the wilderness. Even once in the Promise Land there still had to fulfill the promise and God provided their every need.In Genesis, Joseph had his dreams and felt like they were dead when his brothers sold him. Then later when Potiphar had him thrown in prison. There was a time that he helped translate the dreams of the butler and baker that were in prison with him and he told the butler that when you are restored in position to Pharaoh to remember me. At this moment he was trying to fix it himself and not rely on God.Abraham and Sarah were given a promise of having a child. After waiting years they got to the point of having a child through Haggai, but that was not God’s Best for them.In John Bevere’s Book, “Good or God” he talks about what may be good and created by God isn’t always God’s best for us. He shares how when God created the Garden of Eden he told Adam and Eve that they could eat from every tree except from the Tree of the knowledge of good and evil. God created it and it was a good thing, but it wasn’t the best that God had for them.Back in episode 15 titled “In times of testing, Winners never Quit.” I shared how I felt that God was calling me to ministry and I thought that the way to do that was to get ordained through the denomination that we were in at that time. After the process, I walked away feeling defeated because I knew that it wasn’t the direction God had for me and my family. It took time, but I learned that this was what I thought I needed to do, which is a good thing, but it wasn’t God’s best for me and the calling He has for me.2 kings 8:1 - 6Ephesians 3:20 - Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly, abundantly above all that we ask or think.Support the show

What is that one thing that you pray for when going through a trial or dealing with a situation or person that just seems to test your limits?PATIENCE!It seems like everyone is in a hurry everywhere you look. If you are like me, you want to have an answer or solution to any problem that may arise. And if you don’t, you want to find it as quickly as possible. How many times have you gone to YouTube to find a video to fix a problem with an appliance, vehicle or electronic device? Maybe you went to Google to search a question of how or why this problem is happening?We are in a day and time now that everything is at a speed that we expect what we want to come in quick and timely manner. We are living in a fast food, microwave, and amazon time that if we don’t get it our way in 5 minutes, 30 minutes or next day delivery, we get frustrated that it isn’t here fast enough.You may be going through a trial and you have prayed and it feels like God hasn’t answered your prayer. Maybe His answer was “Not at this Time, WAIT.”Most of us, including myself  hate to hear that word, “WAIT”Look at some of the saints in the Bible, like Abraham and Sarah; Joseph, Moses, David and Noah that had to wait years to see the fulfillment of God's promise given to them.What does “be still” mean?It means to stand respectfully motionless, halt, quiet, calm, tranquil, devoid of motion.Waiting means to await, hope, be patient, look forward to and tarry.God wants that for us in that when we wait in faith we are expressing our confidence in Him, even in those times of trial and uncertainty. Especially if we have a feeling of urgency.Many times we want to rush and find a solution, which isn’t always a bad thing, but there are times that God wants us to stop and rest and put our faith and dependence on Him and know that He will provide and make a way, when all else seems hopeless.God is wanting us to “Be Still” and listen to Him. Just as He told Elijah on the mountain. God wasn’t in the wind, the earthquake or fire, but in a still small voice. So many times we get caught up in our daily lives and activities that we don’t take the time to listen to what God has for us each and every day. Whether it is first thing in the morning or at night before you go to bed you need to take that time to stop and listen to what God is saying to You. We get caught up with things that become like static noise and can be so overpowering that we can’t focus or hear what God is wanting to show us. So take that time as you thank Him each day for what He has done or is doing in your life, even if is seems like you are going through that valley or wilderness and feels like there is no hope or help in sight; but that in those times God is taking you to a place to stop and rest and put you complete faith and trust in Him.Scripture references:Psalms 46:10Psalms 40:1-3Psalms 37:7,9,34Psalms 27;14Exodus 14:13Isaiah 8:17Isaiah 30:18Isaiah 40:31Matthew 11:28James 1:2-4James 5:7-8Support the show

When we hear the word Crisis it is usually in the form of economic, environmental, the oil crisis, the crisis in the Middle East, a marital crisis or the ever popular Mid-Life Crisis.Most times when we hear these words it has a negative connotation, but did you know that there are times when a crisis is a good thing in your life?Wikipedia defines crisis as  "any  event or period that will lead or may lead to an unstable or dangerous situation affecting an individual, group, or all of society. Crisis are negative changes in the human or environmental affairs, especially with little or no warning".Webster's Dictionary defines crisis :1) A turning point for better or worse in an acute disease2) A paroxysmal attack of pain, distress or disordered function3) The decisive moment ( plot of a story)4) An unstable or crucial time or state of affairs in which a situation that has reached a critical phaseSo what does God want you and me to do when we face those moments in our lives.Crisis is Normal to LifeFollow God's Pattern of Forgiveness - John 20:23. Luke 23:34Admit that God is Your Source- Hebrews 13:6,  Psalms 30:6, Psalms 54:4Don't Panic-  Psalms 91;5,10-11Admit God's Sovereignty-  Genesis 50:19-20Don't Limit God- Matthew 13:58Humble Yourself to God- 1 Peter 5:6; Philippians 2:8-11Trust God to Vindicate You- Romans 12:19Communicate- Matthew 5:37; 2 Corinthians 1:20Act On Principle- 1 Thessalonians 5:18Resources: Winners Never Quit by Dr. Edwin Louis Colehttps://cmn.men/collections/books/products/never-quitSupport the show

Jeff Zaugg is the founder and host of the Dad Awesome podcast. Jeff started the podcast three and a half years ago after seeing friends go through great pains with their family and kids from broken marriages. Jeff is married to his wife, Michelle, for over 15 years and they have 4 daughters ranging in age from 8 years old to 3 months old.It was through seeing this pain that sparked a passion to help those hurt by a fatherless issue. He shares that pain is part of our story, but isn't something that we should pass on to our children.As a result, he wanted to help find ways that we as men can stay intentional in this area of fatherhood.  As a dad, we need to be fully present and taking the time to compound interest in the dad life, much like investing with stocks.Jeff shares the framework of unpacking the meaning of the tagline -"Adding life to the dad life".L- Loved (I am Loved - our identity as sons of God)I- Intentional ( Taking the effort to spend time and interact with our children)F- Freedom ( Not passing on the hurts and pains) Hebrews 12:1-2E- Enjoyment of Life ( Feeling follows focus to pass on life, love, callings, identity, affirmation and destiny instead of hurts and pains.)The Father for the Fatherless is a bike rally that started as a small group to challenge men to do something difficult and allow God to speak to them through it. The secret mission of F4F is to awaken a generation of dads to the fact that we are living as if we are the fatherless and that many are living as if fatherless. The goal it to help encourage  men to make that deposit into others and encourage change in a positive trajectory, while raising money to help local and global organizations such as the Venture Orphanage in SE Asia.Resources:https://dadawesome.org/https://dadawesome.org/groups/https://f4f.bike/Support the show