Though the teaching series on Ruth has ended, we're back for one last episode on "waiting." Why, you ask? Because we wanted to bring in a special guest -- Brooke Ackerman, co-Director of Middle/High School ministry -- who has some fantastic insights born out of her own extensive waiting with God. In particular, how do we love those who are in the midst of their own waiting?

After 3 weeks of sharing helpful ways to stay close to God during intense times of waiting, we thought it might be helpful to offer a few stories of our own. So come join us (Brian and Jon) as we share a few of the most challenging times of waiting, and what we learned about our connection to God in the midst of those moments.

Here's an odd question - what do we do when the waiting is over and God has come through? The answer might seem obvious, but if we're not careful we might just return to normalcy instead of embracing a new normal. If we have learned to not waste the waiting, how do we continue to stay connected as we see Him answer our prayers?

Difficult things are hard...AND God is working even when we can’t see it...so what can we do in the midst? We can acknowledge the difficulty of the situation, choose to wait actively, cultivate our relationship with God in the moment, and avoid the traps of false-comparison and minimization. Not sure how to do some (or any) of that? Join Brian and Jon as they talk about their own moments of painful waiting and the lessons God has helped them to learn in the midst.

We're invited to be transformed by the Spirit of God in us, but how do we do that? How do we know what the Spirit is asking us to do...and is that even the most helpful question to ask? Join Brian and Jon as they talk about why it's important to follow the Spirit, what often gets in the way, and how to gain confidence in our ability to "hear."

How do I engage with the Scriptures on a regular basis in a way that brings understanding and transformation? Can I do this on my own? Do I need an expert? What do I do?! Join Brian and Jon as they discuss the rhythm of Daily Devotion and share suggestions and stories on how to engage the Scriptures in helpful and powerful ways.

The core elements of spiritual growth are the scriptures and prayer. And -- there's more! Join Brian and Jon as we talk through the 7 Rhythms of Spiritual Growth and some helpful next-steps for each that can help to truly transform our faith!