In this episode of the Lone Oak Student Ministry Podcast, we sit down with Waverly Watson as she shares her story of following Jesus through the highs and lows of life. From a piece of advice that shaped her high school years—choosing to be a thermostat rather than a thermometer—to the realization that life is not about her but about pointing others to Jesus, Waverly offers wisdom and encouragement for students navigating their own faith journeys.

She also opens up about walking through a season of deep grief, and how the peace of Christ sustained her in a way that others could see and only God could explain. This is a conversation about living with conviction, making intentional friendships, and finding hope and peace in the midst of pain.

Whether you’re a student, a parent, or simply someone looking for encouragement, Waverly’s testimony will challenge you to live boldly for Christ.

🎧 Listen now on Spotify or Apple Podcasts — search “Lone Oak Student Ministry Podcast.”

In this episode of the Lone Oak Student Ministry podcast, host Joe Yarbrough interviews Addison Hart, a college athlete and former student ministry participant. They discuss Addison's journey through high school sports, the importance of balancing faith with a busy schedule, and the role of organizations like FCA in her life. Addison shares her experiences of staying committed to her faith while managing the pressures of sports and academics, and offers encouragement to other students facing similar challenges. The conversation also touches on her transition to college life and the ongoing need to prioritize faith amidst new responsibilities.takeaways

• Addison has been part of the student ministry since sixth grade.
• She balanced a busy sports schedule with her faith and family.
• Prayer was essential for Addison to manage her busy life.
• FCA played a significant role in her spiritual growth.
• Addison learned to rely on God during challenging times.
• She emphasized the importance of community in faith.
• Transitioning to college required prioritizing her faith.
• Addison encourages students to slow down and enjoy the moment.
• She believes that being present is crucial for personal growth.
• College life is manageable with the right mindset.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction

02:46 Memorable Moments in Student Ministry

05:42 Balancing Sports and Faith

08:21 Staying Committed to Faith

11:01 Encouragement for Busy Students

14:11 Impact of Faith on Sports Performance

16:48 Role of FCA in Personal Growth

19:56 Transitioning to College Life

22:40 Prioritizing Faith in College

25:22 Advice for High School Students

In this sermon, Joe Yarbrough explores the story of Daniel and his friends, emphasizing the contrast between the ways of God and the ways of Babylon. He discusses the pressures to conform to worldly standards, the importance of maintaining one's identity in Christ, and how hard times can either strengthen faith or lead to temptation. The conversation encourages listeners to reflect on their own identities and the challenges they face in a world that often opposes their beliefs.

takeaways

• Daniel and his friends represent the struggle of faith in a foreign land.
• The contrast between God's ways and Babylon's ways is significant.
• Believers face constant pressure to conform to worldly standards.
• Understanding one's worldview is crucial for maintaining faith.
• Hard times can strengthen faith rather than strip away identity.
• Temptation often arises during difficult times.
• Maintaining a God-given identity is essential in a challenging world.
• Jesus offers a true identity that the world cannot provide.
• Belonging is a deep human desire that can lead to conformity.
• Staying firm in faith is vital for overcoming life's challenges.

In this episode, Ken Freeman shares his powerful journey of faith, emphasizing the importance of daily scripture reading and community involvement in spiritual growth. He reflects on his early experiences with the church, the mentors who guided him, and the significance of sharing faith with others. Ken encourages listeners to be proactive in their faith, to seek out friendships with those who need to hear about Jesus, and to stay engaged in their church community.Takeaways

• Ken Freeman's early life was marked by instability and a lack of guidance.
• Daily scripture reading became a cornerstone of Ken's faith journey.
• Surrounding oneself with supportive friends is crucial for spiritual growth.
• Being involved in church activities strengthens one's faith.
• Mentorship played a significant role in Ken's development as a Christian.
• Sharing faith with others is essential and can lead to transformative experiences.
• The translation of the Bible matters; choose one that is easy to read.
• Active participation in youth groups can lead to deeper connections with faith.
• Being a light for others is a responsibility of every believer.
• Preparation and readiness in faith can lead to impactful ministry.

Lone Oak Student Ministry Podcast – Episode: Worldviews, Evangelism, and Reaching the Lost: Answering Tough Questions About Faith

Episode Summary:

In this episode, we dive into some tough questions about how to engage with the world around us from a Christian perspective. We talk about the differences between worldly beliefs and Christian beliefs, how to have conversations with atheists, the best ways to reach non-Christians, and what happens to people who once followed Jesus but then converted to another religion. These are tough questions, but we’re here to give real answers that actually make sense for students!

In This Episode, We Discuss:

1. How to talk about worldly beliefs compared to Christian beliefs – Understanding the key differences and how to approach conversations with respect and clarity.

2. How to talk to atheists – Practical tips for having honest and loving conversations about faith with those who don’t believe in God.

3. What is the best way to reach non-Christians? – We explore the most effective ways to share the Gospel and build relationships with those who don’t know Jesus.

4. What happens to people who were Christians but then converted to another religion? – A sensitive conversation about the reality of people who turn away from the faith and how to approach these situations with compassion.

Key Takeaways:

• The importance of understanding different worldviews.

• How to have respectful, meaningful conversations about faith.

• Practical steps to engage with non-believers and share the truth of the Gospel.

• Why it’s crucial to show grace and love, even when discussing difficult topics.

Scripture References:

• 1 Peter 3:15 – “But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.”

• Matthew 28:19-20 – “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.”

• John 14:6 – “Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.’”

Join the Conversation:

We want to hear from you! What questions do you have about faith, evangelism, or worldviews? Share with us on social media or send us a message—we’d love to keep the conversation going.

Thanks for tuning in to the Lone Oak Student Ministry Podcast! Don’t forget to subscribe, share, and leave a review!

Tough Questions | Episode 2: Theology, Evangelism & Worldview

🎙️ Welcome back to Tough Questions! This week, Joe and Nathan are tackling some of the biggest theological questions students have submitted. From understanding why Jesus had to die on a cross to how God is eternal, we’re breaking it down in a way that’s practical, biblical, and easy to understand.

💡 In This Episode:

✅ Why are there different Bible translations? 📖

✅ Why did it have to be a cross that Jesus died on? ✝️

✅ Why did it take three days for Jesus to conquer death? ⏳

✅ How is God eternal? 🌌

✅ What is the Trinity? 🔺

✅ Why are there 10 Commandments, and what do they mean for us? 📝

📖 Key Verses & Takeaways:

• 2 Timothy 3:16 – “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness.”

• Galatians 3:13 – “Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us.”

• Matthew 12:40 – “For just as Jonah was three days and three nights in the belly of the huge fish, so the Son of Man will be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth.”

• Exodus 20:1-17 – The 10 Commandments and their significance today.

🙌 We’re here to help you grow in your faith and defend what you believe!

📲 Listen to the full episode on Spotify (Lone Oak Student Ministry) or watch on YouTube (loneoakstudents)!

💬 Got a tough question? Send it in for a future episode!

Tough Questions | Episode 1: Relationships & Anxiety

🎙️ Welcome to Tough Questions! In this brand-new series, Joe and Nathan tackle the toughest questions submitted by students—answering them in a way that’s both practical and grounded in biblical truth.

💬 In This Episode:

We’re diving into some big questions about relationships and anxiety:

✅ Family & Friends – How do I handle conflict and stay Christlike when relationships get messy?

✅ Dating & Boundaries – What does a God-honoring relationship look like? How do I know if I’m dating for the right reasons?

✅ Dealing with Anxiety When I Mess Up – What do I do when I feel like I’ve failed God or disappointed others?

🙌 No sugarcoating. No easy answers. Just real talk with biblical wisdom.

📖 Key Verses:

• Proverbs 17:17 – “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.”

• 2 Corinthians 6:14 – “Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers.”

• Philippians 4:6-7 – “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God.”

🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe! Got a tough question? Send it in for a future episode!

Join us in this episode as we sit down with special guest Hope Hodges to discuss the vital role of finding a community of faith. From struggling with identity in school to discovering purpose in college, Hope shares how a faith community helped her embrace her identity in Christ and empowered her to share the gospel in her everyday life. Tune in to explore the transformative power of faith-based communities in shaping our lives.

Book discussed:Gospel Fluency: Speaking Truths Everyday: https://www.amazon.com/Gospel-Fluency-Speaking-Truths-Everyday/dp/1433546035/ref=sr_1_1?hvadid=241613987995&hvdev=c&hvlocphy=9014633&hvnetw=g&hvqmt=e&hvrand=2220614711308824039&hvtargid=kwd-270891359977&hydadcr=22533_10353822&keywords=gospel+fluency&qid=1691768705&sr=8-1

Listen as Gavin share his testimony about following Christ in hostile world and some of his concerns about going off to college.