Against the Grain

One of the most tragic things we see in this world is kids who have lost their parents. This happens across the world, as well as right here in our community. As followers of Jesus, God calls us to take care of the vulnerable - especially orphans. It seems He has a special heart for the fatherless.

How can we get involved in helping these vulnerable kids? Mike Douris from Orphan Outreach has spent a lifetime in the orphan care arena and brings incredible insight and stories of hope. Join us in this episode as Eric & Mike discuss what God is doing and ways for all of us to step in to His work.   

Show notes:

Orphan Outreach

121 Foster/Adopt Group

121 Mission Trips

Adopted for Life by Russell Moore

James 1:27

Deut. 10:18

Psalm 68:5; 82:3

Isaiah 1:17

"Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him." James 1:12-15

As followers of Christ, we will be faced with temptations and desires that are against the heart of the Lord. What does it look like to battle temptation and fight against the flesh? What does it look like to choose to walk in holiness with the Lord? In this episode, Eric, Lorraine & Jordan discuss dealing with real temptations and the pursuit of what is better.

Show notes:

James 1:12-15 & 4:7

Hebrews 12:2

Psalm 51, 16 & 103

Romans 12:2 & 16:20

Galatians 2:20

1 Corinthians 10:13

Revelation 12:11

Trials aren't a matter of if—they're a matter of when. We all face moments that bring us to our knees: devastating diagnoses, fractured relationships, crushing losses, and countless other heartaches that derail our carefully laid plans.

But as followers of Jesus, how do we navigate these dark valleys? How do we maintain an eternal perspective when our present reality feels overwhelming? And how can we offer genuine support to others walking through their own storms?

In this episode, Eric, Jessica, and Sonja dive deep into James 1:2-4, exploring how we can actually find joy in the midst of trials— because God's presence fundamentally transforms how we experience suffering.

Show notes:

James 1:2-4

1 Peter 1:6-7

John 15:11

A Praying Life by Paul Miller

Walking with God Through Pain and Suffering by Timothy Keller

Change is inevitable. At every stage of life, we encounter shifts and circumstances beyond our control. In this episode, Courtney, Evan, and Jessica explore how to navigate change well and support others through difficult transitions.

In a world of constant flux, there's hope in unchanging constants we can hold onto: God's character, His Word, and His promises. Join us as we find comfort, encouragement and motivation in the unchanging nature of God's faithfulness—even in the face of life-altering change.

Whether you're facing your own season of transition or walking alongside someone who is, this conversation offers wisdom and encouragement for the journey ahead.

Resources:

Deserted by God? by Sinclair Ferguson

Soul Care Leader by Dr. Rob Reimer

A Praying Life by Paul Miller

Scripture:

Isaiah 43:19

Numbers 23:19

Romans 12:2

Hebrews 12:11

2 Corinthians 10:5

Romans 5:3

Philippians 1:6

2 Timothy 3:16

John 15:9

In a culture obsessed with climbing ladders and promoting ourselves, followers of Christ are called to a radically different path—one of servanthood. Instead of fixating on our own needs and advancement, we're invited to shift our focus outward, seeking to serve those around us.

Join Kevin, Lorraine, and Brian as they explore what it means to serve not just well, but exceptionally—going above and beyond in ways that transform both giver and receiver. This episode unpacks servanthood as more than an occasional act of kindness; it's a complete way of life that shapes how we move through and see the world.

You'll also discover how true community requires the humility to not only serve others but to allow yourself to be served. It's a vulnerable heart posture of giving and accepting that deepens our connections and reflects the heart of the Gospel.

Tune in to be inspired and equipped to step boldly into opportunities to serve and be served.

At any stage in our lives, sports often take up a large portion of our time, energy and focus. What if we began to view the sports field as a mission field?

In this game-changing episode, Jordan, Seth & Evan tackle how to integrate faith into the competitive world of sports. They dive into combating the pride that comes with athletic achievement, exploring how to live radically different lives that point others toward something greater than the scoreboard.

From navigating the pressure-cooker environment of college athletics to raising kids who see sports as service rather than self-promotion, this conversation will challenge how you view every practice, every game, and every victory or defeat.

Show notes:

Colossians 3:23

Provers 16:9

Parenting teens comes with its own unique set of challenges. Your teen is facing a constant pull to follow the culture of this world. In this episode, Eric, Lauren & Jermaine discuss how to come alongside your teen to help them live against the grain.

How do you identify your spiritual gifts? What's the difference between natural talents and spiritual gifts? How should spiritual gifts be used within the church and in everyday life? Understanding your spiritual gifting can help you unlock how He has called you to serve.In this episode, Evan, Michelle and Eric discuss spiritual gifts and the many questions that surround this topic.Whether you're curious about spiritual gifts for the first time or looking to deepen your understanding of how God has equipped you to serve others, this episode offers biblical insight, real-world examples, and practical guidance for discerning and developing your spiritual gifts.

Join us for a powerful conversation about the hope of Jesus that’s igniting hearts and transforming lives in some of the most unlikely places.

In this episode, Eric, Travis, and Lauren sit down to discuss the incredible work God is doing through God Behind Bars—a ministry that’s bringing healing, redemption, and lasting change to incarcerated individuals across the country.

Whether you're curious about prison ministry or just need a reminder of how far God's love reaches, this is one story you don't want to miss.

God Behind Bars

Why would someone leave everything they know and move to live with a people across the world? For so many, the idea of becoming a global worker is daunting and impossible. In this episode, Eric, Arnaldo & a global worker guest discuss how we can cultivate a heart for the nations- from moving overseas to opportunities to reach the nations in our own neighborhood.