The Power Of God's Whisper Podcast

We’ve all had those moments—when we’ve prayed over and over again, and heaven seems silent. No response. No shift. Just the quiet, and the temptation to give up. But discipleship isn’t just marked by what we pray—it’s marked by how long we keep praying. Real intimacy is formed in the waiting.Our springboard for today’s discussion is:“Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.” — Romans 12:12 (ESV)Let’s be real, Brother—persistent prayer can feel like spiritual trench warfare. You’re in it, you’re tired, and you don’t know when the breakthrough is coming. But Scripture doesn’t just suggest that we stay constant in prayer—it commands it. That word constant means faithfully devoted, unwavering, immovable. Why? Because the enemy would love nothing more than to wear you out before your miracle comes.Persevering prayer is powerful. It’s not begging—it’s standing. It’s declaring, day after day, “I still believe. I still trust. I’m not letting go.” That kind of prayer builds muscle. It deepens your faith and aligns your heart with God’s timing, not just your own expectations.Jesus told a parable in Luke 18 about a persistent widow who kept pressing a corrupt judge until she got justice. And then He said something sobering: “Will not God give justice to His elect, who cry to Him day and night?” The point? God is not reluctant—He’s preparing you. He’s shaping your heart through persistence.Some answers come quickly. Others take years. Some prayers change your circumstances. Others change you. But every prayer sown in faith bears fruit—in its time.When you pray and nothing seems to happen, don’t assume God is inactive. He’s working in the unseen. Sometimes the delays are divine setups. And sometimes… He’s waiting to see if you’ll stay.Question of the Day:What promise from God are you tempted to stop praying for because the waiting feels too long?Mini Call to Action:Reignite one long-forgotten prayer today. Speak it out loud. Write it down again. And thank God in advance for His perfect timing.Prayer:Lord, give me the strength to persevere. Remind me that Your silence doesn’t mean absence, and that Your delays are not denial. I choose today to stand, to believe, and to keep praying until You move.Let’s Get To Work!Prayer isn’t always quick—but it’s always powerful. Stay in the fight. Your breakthrough may be one prayer away.Thanks for reading My Reasons To Believe! This post is public so feel free to share it.Thanks for reading My Reasons To Believe! This post is public so feel free to share it.My Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe

Too often, we approach prayer like a transaction. We bring our list of needs, hand them to God, and hope for answers. But prayer is meant to be far deeper. It’s not only about speaking—it’s about sharing God’s heart. The ultimate goal of prayer isn’t getting something from God, but getting closer to God.Our springboard for today’s discussion is:“The friendship of the Lord is for those who fear him, and he makes known to them his covenant.” — Psalm 25:14 (ESV)Imagine sitting down with a close friend who never lets you speak, who only unloads their problems and then leaves. That’s what prayer looks like when it’s only about us. But discipleship means cultivating a friendship with God, where His heart is revealed to us.How do we hear God’s heart in prayer?* Through His Word. Scripture is God’s primary revelation of His heart. When you pray it, you’re hearing His desires, His promises, and His will.* Through the Holy Spirit. Romans 8:16 tells us, “The Spirit himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God.” In prayer, the Spirit nudges us, convicts us, comforts us, and whispers what matters most to the Father.* Through surrender. When we pray, “Your will be done,” we shift from forcing our desires onto God to receiving His. That’s when intimacy happens—when our heart begins to beat in rhythm with His.Hearing God’s heart changes how you pray for others. Instead of praying your limited perspective, you start praying His eternal will. Instead of asking only for relief, you begin asking for transformation. Instead of focusing only on problems, you begin declaring His purposes.The closer you draw to Him in prayer, the more you’ll notice your heart aligning with His—loving what He loves, grieving what He grieves, and pursuing what He pursues.Question of the Day:When was the last time you paused in prayer not to ask, but simply to say, “Father, what’s on Your heart today?”Mini Call to Action:Take 10 minutes today to pray without asking for anything. Instead, ask God to show you what’s on His heart and write it down.Prayer:Lord, draw me deeper into friendship with You. Teach me to pray not only my words, but to listen for Yours. Align my heart with Your desires, so that I may live and pray in step with You.Let’s Get To Work!Prayer is the bridge where your heart meets His. Step onto it, listen well, and walk in rhythm with the Father.Thanks for reading My Reasons To Believe! This post is public so feel free to share it.My Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe

Every disciple will face it—the season when prayer feels dry. The words seem to bounce off the ceiling. The emotions fade. Silence replaces the nearness you once felt. In those moments, it’s tempting to think God has left or that you’ve failed. But dry prayer seasons are not the end of intimacy with God. They are invitations to press deeper, to move from feelings into faith, and to discover that prayer is not built on emotion but on commitment.Our springboard for today’s discussion is:“Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him.” — James 1:12 (ESV)Dryness in prayer doesn’t mean God is absent—it often means He is drawing you into a deeper level of trust. Just as a good teacher is quiet during the test, sometimes the Father allows silence to strengthen your perseverance.Here’s how to overcome those seasons:* Anchor in the Word. When prayer feels empty, lean heavily on Scripture. Pray it, read it aloud, and let it guide your heart when words are hard to find.* Stay consistent. Don’t abandon your prayer time because it feels unfruitful. Faithfulness in the dry place builds maturity.* Shift the focus. Instead of asking, “What am I getting from prayer?” ask, “What am I giving to God in prayer?” Worship Him for who He is, not just for what you feel.* Invite the Spirit. Romans 8:26 reminds us that the Spirit intercedes when we don’t know what to pray. Trust His strength when yours runs out.Every relationship goes through seasons. If your marriage or friendships were only fueled by emotion, they wouldn’t last. It’s commitment that carries them through. The same is true with God. Dry prayer seasons refine your love, proving it’s rooted in covenant, not convenience.Don’t quit in the silence. Often, it’s just before breakthrough that the silence breaks.Question of the Day:How do you usually respond when prayer feels dry—do you pull back, or press in?Mini Call to Action:Commit today to remain faithful in prayer this week, even if you feel nothing. Write down one Scripture to pray daily until joy returns.Prayer:Lord, help me remain steadfast when prayer feels dry. Remind me that You are near even in silence. Strengthen my faith to press in, trust deeper, and continue seeking You with persistence.Let’s Get To Work!Dry seasons don’t last—but faithful disciples do. Keep praying. Keep pressing. The well will flow again.Thanks for reading My Reasons To Believe! This post is public so feel free to share it.My Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe

One of the greatest privileges of prayer is intercession—praying for others. It’s easy to make prayer only about ourselves, our needs, and our struggles. But discipleship calls us to lift up those around us—to carry their burdens before the throne of God. When you pray for others, you are partnering with Heaven to release blessing, protection, and breakthrough into their lives.Our springboard for today’s discussion is:“First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people.” — 1 Timothy 2:1 (ESV)Paul’s words to Timothy remind us that intercession is not optional—it’s foundational. Prayer is not only about our walk with God but about advancing His Kingdom in the lives of others. Intercession is one of the most selfless acts of love a disciple can give.So how do we pray for others effectively?* Pray specifically. Don’t just say “Lord, bless them.” Ask God to reveal specific needs—healing, courage, provision, wisdom. Call out their name before the Father.* Pray Scripture. Nothing strengthens prayer like aligning it with God’s Word. Pray verses of hope, healing, and strength directly over their situation.* Pray persistently. Jesus taught persistence in prayer through the parable of the persistent widow (Luke 18). Don’t give up after one prayer—keep lifting them up until the breakthrough comes.* Pray with compassion. Let your heart feel their burden. True intercession flows from love, not obligation.When you intercede, you are literally standing in the gap for someone else. Ezekiel 22:30 tells us that God looked for someone to stand in the gap. Today, you can be that person.Never underestimate how your prayers can shape someone’s destiny. You may not see immediate results, but your intercession invites God’s hand into their life in ways unseen. And often, as you pray for others, God begins to soften and strengthen your own heart as well.Question of the Day:Who in your life is God calling you to pray for today with intentionality and faith?Mini Call to Action:Pick one person and commit to intercede for them daily this week—by name, with Scripture, and with expectation.Prayer:Lord, give me a heart of compassion for others in prayer. Teach me to intercede faithfully, to pray Your Word over their lives, and to believe for breakthroughs on their behalf. Use me as one who stands in the gap.Let’s Get To Work!Your prayers for others matter. Stand in the gap today—you may be the reason someone else finds victory tomorrow.Thanks for reading My Reasons To Believe! This post is public so feel free to share it.My Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe

“Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you.” — James 4:8 (ESV)My beloved child,I have always desired closeness with you. From the very beginning, I created you not just to exist, but to walk with Me, talk with Me, and know Me. Worship is more than the songs you sing—it is the offering of your heart, the surrender of your will, and the intimacy of being fully present with Me.When you lift your hands in surrender, I receive it as love. When you whisper My name in gratitude, I hear it as a song. When you lay aside distractions to worship Me in spirit and truth, you are stepping into the intimacy I designed you for.Worship is not limited to the sanctuary or the music—it is the posture of your life. Every act of obedience, every word of kindness, every moment you choose Me above all else is worship. And in those moments, My presence surrounds you, refreshes you, and draws you deeper into My heart.I long for your worship not because I need it, but because you do. Worship breaks chains of fear and despair. Worship reorients your heart away from the world’s noise and onto My voice. Worship lifts you above your circumstances and anchors you in My presence.When you worship, intimacy happens. You hear Me more clearly, you sense Me more deeply, and you experience My love more fully. Worship is the gateway to intimacy—where your heart aligns with Mine and you discover the joy of simply being with Me.So come closer, child. Don’t wait for perfect conditions or polished words. Bring Me your whole heart—raw, real, surrendered. That is worship, and that is where I meet you.Your Heavenly Father.Thanks for reading My Reasons To Believe! This post is public so feel free to share it.My Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe

Prayer is powerful, but there are moments in Scripture where prayer alone wasn’t enough. Some battles required more. That “more” was fasting. When combined with prayer, fasting doesn’t just add intensity—it adds breakthrough. It silences the flesh so the spirit can rise. It opens doors to clarity, power, and victory that otherwise remain shut.Our springboard for today’s discussion is:“But this kind never comes out except by prayer and fasting.” — Matthew 17:21Fasting is often misunderstood. It’s not about starving yourself, punishing your body, or earning God’s attention. Fasting is about making space for God by denying the flesh. When you fast, you remove something physical in order to prioritize the spiritual.Throughout Scripture, fasting was connected to great moves of God. Moses fasted on the mountain as he received the Law. Esther called her people to fast before approaching the king, and deliverance came. Jesus Himself fasted forty days before beginning His ministry.When you fast, your hunger becomes a constant reminder to pray. Your dependence shifts from physical bread to the Bread of Life. And something remarkable happens—your prayers gain sharper focus, your discernment becomes clearer, and your spirit is strengthened against temptation.Fasting also tears down spiritual strongholds. There are situations in your life—bondages, addictions, or obstacles—that will not break through ordinary effort. Prayer and fasting together release extraordinary power. That’s why Jesus told His disciples that some battles require both.Don’t let fasting intimidate you. It doesn’t always mean going forty days without food. It could mean skipping one meal to seek God, fasting for a day, or even laying aside distractions like social media or entertainment to focus on Him. The point isn’t how long you fast—it’s how surrendered you are in the process.When prayer and fasting combine, chains break, clarity comes, and God’s power is revealed in fresh ways.Question of the Day:What area of your life feels like it needs breakthrough that ordinary prayer hasn’t yet touched?Mini Call to Action:Choose one way to fast this week—whether food, media, or something else—and dedicate that time to prayer.Prayer:Lord, teach me the discipline of fasting. Help me deny the flesh so my spirit can grow stronger. Use my sacrifice to break chains, open doors, and bring me closer to You.Let’s Get To Work!Some victories come only through prayer and fasting. Step into it, and watch God move.Thanks for reading My Reasons To Believe! This post is public so feel free to share it.My Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe

Most people don’t struggle with praying once—they struggle with praying consistently. We wait until crisis strikes, and then we rush into prayer. But a disciple’s strength is not built in the moment of battle—it’s built in the daily rhythms of devotion. Just like a soldier sharpens his sword long before he enters the fight, we must develop a steady, disciplined prayer routine that strengthens us for whatever lies ahead.Our springboard for today’s discussion is:“Pray without ceasing.” — 1 Thessalonians 5:17 (ESV)Paul’s instruction to “pray without ceasing” doesn’t mean walking around mumbling prayers nonstop. It means cultivating a lifestyle of constant connection with God—a rhythm where prayer becomes as natural as breathing. And that begins with building a routine.A prayer routine anchors your life. Just as Daniel prayed three times a day even when it was dangerous, you too need a rhythm that keeps you connected to the Father no matter what comes. It could be mornings with Scripture and prayer, evenings reflecting with gratitude, or short breaks during the day to pause and reconnect.Consistency is more powerful than intensity. A one-hour prayer once a month won’t change your life nearly as much as ten minutes of focused prayer every day. Discipline builds intimacy. And over time, your routine becomes less of a checklist and more of a lifeline—something you crave, not something you have to force.Here’s the truth: the enemy fears a praying disciple. He knows that if you build a consistent routine of prayer, you will become unshakable. That’s why he distracts you, busies you, and convinces you prayer is optional. But prayer is never optional—it is oxygen for your soul.Start small but be consistent. Choose a set time, protect it fiercely, and let God meet you there. Over time, your routine will grow into a lifestyle, and your lifestyle into a testimony of God’s faithfulness.Question of the Day:Do you treat prayer as a routine rhythm or as an occasional response?Mini Call to Action:Pick one specific time each day this week for prayer. Write it down, guard it, and let nothing else take its place.Prayer:Lord, help me to build a consistent prayer routine that strengthens my walk with You. Teach me discipline, remove distractions, and fill my set times with Your presence.Let’s Get To Work!Prayer routines build spiritual muscle. Start small, stay consistent, and watch your strength in God grow.Thanks for reading My Reasons To Believe! This post is public so feel free to share it.My Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe

Some people treat prayer as a last resort—something we try when all else fails. But Scripture shows us the exact opposite: prayer is the starting place where God’s power is unleashed. Real prayer isn’t about sending wishful thoughts into the sky—it’s about calling down Heaven’s authority into earth’s reality. Prayer doesn’t just change us; it changes things.Our springboard for today’s discussion is:“The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working.” — James 5:16 (ESV)James reminds us that prayer has great power as it is working. That means prayer isn’t just an empty ritual—it’s active, dynamic, and effective. When Elijah prayed, drought came to the land. When he prayed again, rain returned (James 5:17-18). His prayer shifted weather patterns! The early church prayed, and prison doors opened for Peter (Acts 12). Paul and Silas prayed in chains, and an earthquake shook their jail.Here’s the key: prayer isn’t powerful because of us. It’s powerful because of the One we pray to. God in His wisdom has chosen to partner with His people through prayer. He could act without us, but He delights in working through us.So what does this mean for you? It means that your prayers matter more than you think. When you pray for your children, you’re inviting God’s hand into their lives. When you pray for your marriage, you’re calling Heaven’s power to strengthen what the enemy wants to destroy. When you pray over your workplace, your neighborhood, or your nation, you’re aligning with the will of God to shift things you cannot control.Prayer also changes things in you. It moves your perspective from fear to faith, from panic to peace. It reminds you that you’re not powerless—you’re partnered with the Almighty.So stop underestimating prayer. It is not a backup plan—it’s your battle plan.Question of the Day:Do you pray expecting God to move—or just hoping He hears?Mini Call to Action:Identify one specific situation in your life that feels impossible. Pray boldly over it every day this week, expecting God to act.Prayer:Father, forgive me for praying small prayers without expectation. Teach me to believe in the power of prayer, not because of my words, but because of Your authority. Move mountains, open doors, and change what I cannot change. In Jesus’ name, Amen.Let’s Get To Work!Pray as if Heaven is backing you—because it is. Prayer is your greatest weapon. Use it.Thanks for reading My Reasons To Believe! This post is public so feel free to share it.My Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe

There are days when words flow easily in prayer—and then there are days when silence feels heavy, and you don’t know what to say. But here’s the gift: God has already given us the perfect words to pray—His Word. When we pray Scripture, we’re not just reciting verses; we’re aligning our heart with His truth and declaring promises that will never fail.Our springboard for today’s discussion is:“All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness.” — 2 Timothy 3:16 (ESV)Praying Scripture is one of the most powerful habits you can form in your prayer life. When you feel anxious, you can pray Philippians 4:6-7: “Do not be anxious about anything… and the peace of God… will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” When you’re weary, you can declare Isaiah 40:31: “But they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength.”This practice does three things:* It roots your prayers in God’s authority. Instead of praying based on emotion, you’re praying based on unshakable truth.* It transforms your mind. As you pray His Word, you’re also meditating on it, letting it rewire your thinking.* It increases your faith. Romans 10:17 tells us, “Faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ.” When you pray Scripture, you’re speaking life into your spirit.Praying Scripture also protects you from praying selfishly. Instead of asking only from your perspective, you begin to align with God’s heart and His will. It becomes less about “Lord, do what I want” and more about “Lord, let Your Word be fulfilled.”Here’s a practical step: pick one passage of Scripture today, personalize it into prayer, and speak it out loud. For example, take Psalm 23:1—“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want”—and pray: “Lord, thank You that You are my shepherd. Today, I trust that I lack nothing in You.”Question of the Day:What Scripture do you need to begin praying over your life and family right now?Mini Call to Action:Choose one verse today, write it down, and pray it morning and night this week.Prayer:Father, thank You for giving me Your Word as a foundation for my prayers. Teach me to pray it daily, not as ritual but as relationship—so that Your truth fills my heart, my home, and my future.Let’s Get To Work!Pray the Word, and you’ll always pray His will. Scripture isn’t just to be read—it’s to be declared.Thanks for reading My Reasons To Believe! This post is public so feel free to share it.My Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe

Prayer is not a monologue—it’s a dialogue. Too often, we approach God with a list of requests, pour them out, say “Amen,” and move on with our day. But discipleship requires something deeper. Prayer isn’t complete until we’ve learned to listen. Because when God speaks, His words cut through confusion, bring direction, and fill us with life.Our springboard for today’s discussion is:“My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me.” — John 10:27Teaching:Jesus made it clear—hearing His voice is not reserved for prophets or super-spiritual leaders. It’s the birthright of every believer. Yet listening prayer requires training your soul to quiet down and tune in.Think of it like tuning a radio. The signal is already broadcasting, but you’ve got to adjust the dial to catch it clearly. God is always speaking through His Word, His Spirit, and His whispers to your heart. But we miss Him because we’re too busy talking, distracted, or doubting.Here are some listening practices that help:* Silence and stillness — Take a few minutes to sit in quiet before the Lord. Let the noise of your thoughts settle.* Scripture meditation — Read a verse slowly and ask the Spirit, “What are You highlighting to me right now?”* Journaling His whispers — Write down impressions, thoughts, or nudges that align with God’s character and Word.* Asking and waiting — Pray a simple question, then wait with expectation. God honors the disciple who listens.Listening prayer teaches you dependence. It reminds you that discipleship isn’t just about what you say to God—it’s about how well you respond to His voice. And the more you practice listening, the more confident you’ll become in recognizing His guidance.Question of the Day:When was the last time you stopped long enough to truly listen for God’s voice in prayer?Mini Call to Action:Set aside 10 minutes today just for listening prayer. Ask the Lord one question, stay silent, and journal what you sense He says.Prayer:Lord, teach me to quiet my heart and hear Your whispers. Help me grow in confidence, not in my ability to hear, but in Your faithfulness to speak.Let’s Get To Work!The louder the world gets, the more vital it is to hear God’s whisper. Train your ears today, and your steps will be steady tomorrow.Thanks for reading My Reasons To Believe! This post is public so feel free to share it.My Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe

Every warrior has a base—a place where weapons are sharpened, wounds are healed, and strength is restored. For you as a disciple of Jesus, that base is the secret place. It’s not just a location; it’s a decision to meet with God in an intentional, undistracted way. Without it, your spirit runs dry. With it, you become unstoppable.Our springboard for today’s discussion is:“But when you pray, go into your room and shut the door and pray to your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.” — Matthew 6:6Teaching:Jesus modeled this principle throughout His life. Though He carried the power to heal the sick and raise the dead, He consistently withdrew to desolate places to pray. The Son of God needed the Father’s presence in solitude—how much more do we?The secret place is about shutting the door—not just a physical door, but the doors of distraction. Shutting off the noise of your phone. Closing the mental loop of worry. Refusing the constant pull of busyness.When you meet God there, you learn that prayer is less about performance and more about presence. You don’t need perfect words—you just need an open heart. He rewards the hidden life, the faithful disciple who seeks Him when nobody else is watching.And here’s the truth: the strength you carry in public will always be a reflection of the time you’ve spent with God in private. What is whispered in the secret place becomes thunder on the battlefield.Question of the Day:Where is your “secret place,” and what do you need to shut the door on to meet with God more deeply?Mini Call to Action:Pick one time and one place today to guard as your meeting place with God. Write it down and keep it sacred.Prayer:Father, draw me into the secret place where it’s just You and me. Teach me to shut the door on distractions and open my heart fully to Your presence.Let’s Get To Work!Today’s obedience sets the course for tomorrow’s breakthroughs. Keep stepping faithfully, one obedience at a time.My Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe

“And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another.” — 2 Corinthians 3:18 (ESV)My Dear Child,Do you realize how far you’ve come?I’ve watched every step, every struggle, every triumph. I’ve seen your victories—moments when you responded with grace instead of anger, chose forgiveness instead of bitterness, and leaned into Me when circumstances whispered doubt. Every small obedience, every quiet act of surrender, every step of trust has mattered deeply to Me.You might not always see your progress clearly. You might sometimes wonder if you're truly growing, if your discipleship journey is making a real difference. Hear Me clearly now: It is. You are not the same person you were when we first began this journey together. You are becoming more like Me every single day, step by step, moment by moment.This transformation isn’t always comfortable—I know. Growth rarely feels easy, and sometimes it hurts. But that’s because I’m molding you into My image, shaping your heart to reflect Mine, refining your character to shine brighter with My love, patience, compassion, and holiness.Don’t be discouraged by the pace. Real growth takes time, just like strong trees take years to deepen their roots. Your roots in Me are deepening, becoming more resilient, drawing nourishment directly from My presence and My Word. Trust the process, My child. Trust My hands to shape you wisely and lovingly.Remember, discipleship is not about becoming perfect overnight. It’s about becoming more like Me each day. When you stumble, I don’t turn away. When you struggle, My love doesn’t lessen. When you feel weak, My strength fills your gaps. You’re never alone in this journey—I am here, close, guiding, whispering, leading.Today, rest in this truth: you’re closer than you think. Your life is bearing fruit in ways you cannot yet fully see. Keep walking, keep trusting, keep growing. Because every day, you look more like Me—and that’s the greatest joy of My heart.I see My reflection in you more clearly each day. That is My purpose, My delight, and My promise to you.Forever yours,—Your Heavenly FatherMy Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe

Knowledge without application is just information. It fills notebooks, impresses people, and fuels pride—but it never truly transforms lives. Jesus didn’t call disciples to merely learn about Him; He called them to live like Him. Discipleship’s ultimate test is found not in how much we know, but in how authentically and faithfully we practice what we’ve learned.Our springboard for today’s discussion is:“What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.” — Philippians 4:9Let’s get real. We live in an age of unprecedented access to spiritual content—books, podcasts, sermons, devotionals. But simply absorbing content doesn’t necessarily produce mature disciples. Spiritual maturity comes from consistently putting into practice what God has revealed to you.The Apostle Paul understood this deeply. He didn’t tell believers just to listen or memorize. He urged them to watch his life and replicate his faithfulness. His challenge was straightforward: “What you’ve seen in me, do that.” That’s real discipleship—when others can look at your life and clearly see a demonstration of Christ in action.It’s tempting to keep learning without living, accumulating spiritual insights without applying them. But true transformation demands that you live out your convictions in practical, everyday ways. It means forgiving even when it’s painful, serving when it’s inconvenient, giving generously even when it stretches your faith, and responding to hurts with grace instead of bitterness.God doesn’t measure discipleship by theological brilliance or Bible trivia. He measures it by obedience and authenticity. Your obedience is what turns truth into transformation.So today, evaluate your life honestly. Is there a disconnect between what you believe and how you behave? Are there truths God has revealed to you that you’ve yet to fully live out? Begin to close that gap.Question of the Day:What specific truth or lesson has God shown you recently that you haven’t yet fully put into practice?Mini Call to Action:Decide on one practical step of obedience today and commit to taking immediate action.Prayer:Lord, help me not to settle for knowing without doing. Give me the courage to live out the truths You’ve taught me. Let my life reflect the reality of Your Word in action, so others see You clearly through me. Amen.Let’s Get To Work!Disciples aren’t just hearers—they’re doers. Live out what you learn, and your life will become your loudest sermon.My Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe

No disciple wants trials, pain, or hardship. We prefer comfort, peace, and blessings—and understandably so. Yet the uncomfortable truth is this: some of the deepest spiritual growth occurs in the hardest seasons of life. The fires of adversity aren’t meant to destroy you. They’re meant to refine you, strengthen you, and shape you more fully into the likeness of Christ.Our springboard for today’s discussion is:“When you walk through the fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you.” — Isaiah 43:2If you’re truly committed to becoming a disciple, you won’t be able to avoid the flames of adversity. Trials will come, not because you’re doing something wrong, but often precisely because you’re walking faithfully with Jesus. These challenging seasons aren’t signs that God has abandoned you—they’re evidence He’s refining you.Consider this: gold is purified in fire. The heat doesn’t destroy the gold—it removes impurities, increasing its value and purity. Likewise, the fires of trials remove impurities from your heart, refine your character, and deepen your trust. It’s easy to praise God when everything’s going your way. But real faithfulness emerges when circumstances become unbearably difficult, yet you choose to trust Him anyway.The Bible repeatedly shows that disciples aren’t exempt from hardship. Job endured incredible suffering, yet emerged closer to God than ever before. Daniel’s faithfulness led him into the lions' den, yet God delivered him powerfully. Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego faced literal fire, yet emerged unscathed, experiencing God's tangible presence in their trial.Your trials don’t mean God is distant. Often, He’s closer than ever during these times. Your hardships don’t indicate His displeasure; they reveal His loving commitment to your growth. Every trial is an invitation to trust Him more deeply and discover His presence in new, profound ways.The key is your response. You can resist, complain, and grow bitter—or you can surrender, trust, and emerge stronger. Faithfulness isn’t measured by comfort; it’s proven by endurance. Keep worshiping when it hurts. Keep trusting when you can’t see the outcome. Keep walking forward when everything urges you to retreat.Today, if you’re walking through fire, hold onto this truth: you will not be consumed. Your pain has purpose. Your struggle is temporary. Your refinement is eternal. And God promises He will never let you walk through the fire alone.Question of the Day:What fiery trial are you walking through right now—and how is God refining you through it?Mini Call to Action:Write down one truth about God’s character that you can cling to during this trial. Keep it visible and remind yourself of it daily.Let’s Get To Work!Faithfulness isn’t tested in comfort—it’s proven in fire. Keep walking. Keep trusting. Keep standing strong. God is refining gold in you.My Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe

The mark of a true disciple isn’t just personal growth—it’s reproduction. Jesus didn’t say, “Go and become great followers.” He said, “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations…” (Matthew 28:19). Discipleship was never meant to end with you; it was designed to multiply through you.Our springboard for today’s discussion is:“…and what you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses entrust to faithful men, who will be able to teach others also.” — 2 Timothy 2:2 (ESV)Paul’s instruction to Timothy shows us the multiplication model:* Receive from a faithful teacher.* Entrust it to faithful people.* Equip them to teach others.It’s a chain of discipleship that spans generations. But here’s the problem—many believers break the chain by holding onto what they’ve learned without passing it on.Multiplication requires intentionality. It’s not about being a spiritual “expert”; it’s about being available and willing. You might think, “I’m not ready to mentor someone.” But Jesus didn’t wait until His disciples had it all together—He began training them while they were still learning.To multiply disciples, you must:* Model the life of a disciple—live what you teach.* Mentor intentionally—walk with people through their spiritual growth.* Mobilize them—equip them to serve, lead, and disciple others.This is more than a Bible study—it’s life-on-life investment. It means inviting people into your world, letting them see your faith in action, and teaching them to follow Christ not just with knowledge but with their whole lives.When you multiply disciples, your influence for the Kingdom extends far beyond your own life. You’re planting seeds in people who will reach others you may never meet. That’s the power of Kingdom multiplication—it never stops.If your faith has changed you, don’t let it stop with you. Pass it on. Multiply it. Leave a legacy of disciples who make disciples.Question of the Day:Who is one person you can begin intentionally discipling this month?Mini Call to Action:Pray and ask God to highlight someone in your life to begin walking with spiritually. Commit to meeting regularly and sharing what you’ve learned in Christ.Prayer:Lord, thank You for those who have poured into my life and helped me grow in You. Give me eyes to see those around me who are ready to be discipled. Give me the courage to step out, the humility to serve, and the wisdom to guide them closer to You. Help me to multiply what You’ve placed in me for Your Kingdom’s sake. In Jesus’ name, Amen.Let’s Get To Work!Don’t just be a disciple—become a disciple-maker who leaves a spiritual legacy that multiplies for generations.My Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe

There’s a difference between surviving as a believer and thriving as a disciple. One simply hangs on until Heaven; the other grows, bears fruit, and lives on mission for the Kingdom. What separates the two is hunger—a holy desire for spiritual maturity that refuses to be satisfied with yesterday’s faith.Our springboard for today’s discussion is:“Like newborn infants, long for the pure spiritual milk, that by it you may grow up into salvation—if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is good.” — 1 Peter 2:2-3 (ESV)Peter paints a vivid picture: just as a newborn instinctively cries out for nourishment, so should we long for the Word, prayer, and fellowship with God. Spiritual maturity is not a passive process. You cannot drift into depth; you must pursue it intentionally.This hunger starts with realizing there is more of God to know, more of His ways to understand, and more of His Spirit to experience. Many Christians plateau because they mistake initial salvation for the fullness of the Christian life. But God is calling you to press in, to keep growing, to let Him refine you in character, faith, and obedience.Hunger for spiritual maturity will disrupt comfort zones. It will cause you to ask hard questions, wrestle with God’s Word, and confront areas in your life that don’t align with His will. It means you stop being content with surface-level spirituality and go deeper—studying Scripture until it changes you, praying until your heart aligns with His, and serving until your life reflects His love in action.Without hunger, we settle for spiritual junk food—things that entertain but do not nourish. With hunger, we feed on what will strengthen our faith, even when it’s challenging to digest.The truth is, God will meet you at the level of your hunger. If you desire just enough of Him to get by, that’s what you’ll receive. But if you desire more—if you chase after Him like David did, if you long for Him as the deer pants for water—you will find depths of intimacy and revelation that transform your entire life.Question of the Day:How hungry are you for spiritual growth—and what does your daily life say about that hunger?Mini Call to Action:Choose one new spiritual discipline or practice to deepen your walk this week, and commit to it daily.Prayer:Lord, give me a deep, unshakable hunger for You. Stir my heart to desire Your Word, Your presence, and Your will above everything else. Remove distractions that dull my appetite for spiritual growth. Teach me to crave what nourishes my soul, so that I may grow into full maturity in Christ. In Jesus’ name, Amen.Let’s Get To Work!Your level of hunger determines your depth of growth—chase after Him with everything you’ve got.My Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe

We often think of spiritual growth as a matter of passion, inspiration, or a “big breakthrough” moment. But the truth is, most of your spiritual transformation will not happen in a single dramatic encounter—it will be the product of habits you choose, day after day, that quietly shape your heart toward God.If you think about it, habits are simply repeated actions that become second nature over time. And if our goal as disciples is to become more like Jesus, we must intentionally form habits that align us with His heart and His ways.Our springboard for today’s discussion is:“Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.” — Romans 12:2 (ESV)Developing godly habits begins with renewing the mind. Your thought life fuels your choices, and your choices create patterns. If your mind is being shaped by worldly voices more than God’s Word, your habits will reflect that influence. But if you immerse yourself in Scripture, prayer, worship, and godly fellowship, your spiritual reflexes will begin to change.Start small. It’s tempting to think you need a massive overhaul all at once, but lasting transformation comes from steady steps. If you’re inconsistent in prayer, start with ten intentional minutes each morning. If Bible reading feels sporadic, commit to one chapter a day. These habits will not feel natural at first, but over time, they will become part of the fabric of your life—automatically guiding your responses, your relationships, and your decisions toward God’s will.Understand this: ungodly habits do not disappear just because you stop them. They must be replaced. If you want to remove a pattern of worry, replace it with a habit of thanksgiving. If you want to stop speaking words of complaint, replace them with words of blessing. Spiritual discipline isn’t about deprivation—it’s about transformation.Godly habits are your training ground for the moments when your faith is tested. They keep you anchored when emotions fluctuate, when trials come, and when the enemy whispers lies. These rhythms create a spiritual reflex—so that when life squeezes you, what comes out is the fruit of the Spirit, not the residue of the flesh.Question of the Day:Which one godly habit do you need to start—or strengthen—this week?Mini Call to Action:Write it down, pray over it, and take one practical step toward putting it into action today.Prayer:Father, thank You for giving me the ability to form habits that honor You. Help me to choose rhythms and disciplines that draw me closer to Your heart and anchor me in Your truth. Replace old patterns that lead me away from You with habits that keep me in step with Your Spirit. Give me perseverance when it feels difficult, and joy as I see transformation take root. In Jesus’ name, Amen.Let’s Get To Work!Transformation doesn’t happen by accident—it’s built, one godly habit at a time.My Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe

Obedience is one of those words that can make us uncomfortable—especially when it demands action we’d rather avoid. We prefer the excitement of miracles, the emotion of worship, or the revelation of new truths. But God’s clearest, most consistent measure of our discipleship isn’t how loudly we praise or how deeply we study—it’s how faithfully we obey. Daily. Consistently. Quietly. Even when no one is watching.Our springboard for today’s discussion is:“Whoever has my commandments and keeps them, it is he who loves me. And he who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I will love him and manifest myself to him.” — John 14:21 (ESV)Let’s clarify one thing first: obedience is not legalism. It’s relationship. God doesn’t call us to obey just for the sake of rules. He invites us into obedience because it leads to closeness, intimacy, and deeper revelation of His heart. Jesus promises explicitly: when we obey Him, He manifests—He shows Himself—to us. Obedience unlocks deeper intimacy and clearer communication.Many believers struggle to hear God’s voice because they hesitate or refuse to follow His simple instructions. If God nudges you to forgive and you hold onto bitterness, why would He give deeper insight? If He gently prompts you to step out in faith, but you remain safely within comfort zones, why would He call you into greater adventures?Discipleship is formed in the daily decisions you make to say “yes” to His leading, even when it costs you something. Obedience often means going against your natural inclinations, confronting fears, surrendering pride, or taking uncomfortable steps. Yet every step of obedience, no matter how small, sets the stage for the next divine encounter, the next miracle, the next breakthrough.Maybe today God is calling you to have that difficult conversation. Perhaps He's prompting you to release that grudge or sacrifice that comfort. Whatever it is, understand this: your obedience is never unnoticed by Him. He delights in your willingness. He honors your courage.Real obedience is often unseen by others—but it always moves Heaven. It aligns your heart with God’s purposes. It brings about change in you first, then around you. Your obedience today opens the door to His greater revelation tomorrow.Question of the Day:What step of obedience is God asking of you today—and why have you been hesitating?Mini Call to Action:Write down that one step of obedience clearly. Commit in prayer to act upon it immediately, trusting God to guide you through it.Prayer:Father, thank You for the privilege of walking in step with You. Give me a heart that delights in obedience, even when it’s hard or inconvenient. Remove any fear, hesitation, or pride that keeps me from saying “yes” to You. Help me to trust that every act of obedience, no matter how small, draws me deeper into Your presence and positions me for Your purposes. Strengthen me to follow through today with courage and faith. In Jesus’ name, Amen.Let’s Get To Work!Today’s obedience sets the course for tomorrow’s breakthroughs. Keep stepping faithfully, one obedience at a time.My Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe

“Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me.” — John 15:4 (ESV)My Precious Child,You know a lot about Me. You’ve read the stories, listened to sermons, and memorized My words. You’ve taken bold steps to grow. I love seeing your hunger for more—your genuine desire to follow Me fully. Yet sometimes, amidst your striving, you overlook the simple invitation I extend each day: Come closer.You see, My beloved, discipleship is not primarily about doing. It’s about being—being with Me. It's about abiding in My presence, lingering in My love, and letting My Spirit fill every space of your life. You weren't designed to just work for Me from afar; you were made to walk intimately at My side.I know you have goals for your growth. You want to bear much fruit, impact lives, and fulfill your purpose. But fruitfulness isn't something you manufacture. It flows naturally from intimacy with Me. The closer you draw, the richer your harvest becomes. I don't want you weary from striving—I want you strengthened by staying close.Think of My disciples when I walked among them. They listened carefully, yes. They served faithfully, certainly. But more than anything, they simply stayed close to Me. They walked the roads I walked. They sat by fires with Me in the evening. They laughed and learned by simply being near. That nearness changed everything for them—and it can for you, too.My child, today I invite you closer. Slow down. Listen deeply. Linger a little longer in prayer. Don't rush past Me in pursuit of growth; instead, find your growth in Me. For every step you take towards Me, know I am already running toward you.Your life isn't meant to reflect a distant belief—it’s meant to radiate intimate relationship. You’re not called merely to know My teachings; you're called to experience My heart. Come near, abide deeply, and watch what happens when you live daily in My presence.You were never meant to follow Me from afar. I want you right here—close enough to hear My heartbeat.Forever drawing you closer,— Your Loving FatherMy Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe

Let’s get honest—Christianity isn’t about checking boxes, memorizing verses, or looking good on Sundays. It’s about fruit. Not just any fruit, but the kind that proves you're following Jesus. We’re not called to simply believe in Him. We’re called to become like Him—and that transformation shows up in our everyday lives.Our springboard for today’s discussion is:“By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit and so prove to be my disciples.” — John 15:8Jesus didn’t say people would know we’re His disciples by how well we preach, how many devotionals we write, or even how passionately we pray. He said we’d be known by our fruit. That’s love when it’s hard, patience when you're stretched, and joy when life doesn’t make sense.Fruit is what the world sees when it watches your life. It’s what your spouse experiences, what your kids pick up on, and what your coworkers notice when you’re under pressure. You might be the only Bible someone ever reads—and your fruit is the ink.The question is—what are you producing?A true disciple bears fruit not because they’re striving harder, but because they’re abiding deeper. Fruit doesn’t come from religious hustle. It comes from connection. Remain in Christ, and fruit will follow. Cut yourself off from Him, and you’ll dry up fast.This isn’t about perfection—it’s about progression. You’re not going to see a harvest overnight. But stay rooted in Jesus, and over time, the fruit of the Spirit—love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control—will begin to shape every part of your life.Question of the Day:What kind of fruit is showing up in your life today—and what does it reveal about your walk with Jesus?Mini Call to Action:Pick one area of fruit you want to grow in this week—and ask the Holy Spirit to cultivate it.Let’s Get To Work!You weren’t saved to sit still. You were saved to bear fruit that lasts. Keep abiding, keep growing—and let your life speak loud.My Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe