Messy Christianity

This was a heavier subject matter for us.  Suicide is a reality, and it seems to be increasing in our society.  What's the reason and what can we do about it?  For the one listening to this that might be contemplating suicide ... before you even listen, know that you are loved, and that there is a purpose for you.  Take time right now to call the national suicide prevention hotline:  800-273-8255.  Your life DOES matter!

We live in a world where calling someone he or she is considered offensive.  Businesses are now asking their employees to not refer to a customer as a specific gender until they give permission.  It's in the news quite a bit lately.  How do we as believers deal with a society this confused about identity?  What is the appropriate response?

The calling of God.  Is it for everyone?  Is there a different call for those that are in full-time vocational ministry?  How do you know if you are being called?  We dig into these questions and more in this episode!

So just what is all this talk about digital money?  Does it hold actual value?  Can it be used in the real world?  Is it something we should pay attention to or invest in?  

The way we think determines the way we act.  Said another way:  Your life is a result of your thoughts.  It sounds simple, but controlling our thought life maybe the biggest battle in the Christian walk.  The positive outlook is change your thinking, and you'll change your life.  So how?  How do you change the way you think?  How to you renew your mind?

Life is full of ups and downs, and so is vocational ministry.  There are some hard times, really hard times.  How do you stay focused and not give up?  In this episode we talk about some things that we've done right (and wrong) over the years.  

All three of us are right around the 50 year old age.  The last thirty years have in many ways passed by quickly.  In this episode we reflect back upon the 20 year old that had all of the aspirations of the future.  Have we lived up to our dreams?  Are we surprised by where we are?  What would we do differently?  Would that 20 year old be proud of are disappointed in who we are today?

Sin is always there.  That strong desire to do what we know to be wrong.  The pull to do the things we know will ultimately leave us unsatisfied.  We grit our teeth and dig in with the same determination to "not do it again".  Yet, once again, we fall.  What is the secret to defeating sin in our lives?  If freedom is possible, why are so many people living in defeat?

Little things.  So much of life is made up of little things.  Routine can seem mundane.  Small efforts can appear unfruitful.  But all of these little things can combine to make a much bigger thing.  There is a cumulative effect in life.  One little thing can change a direction completely.  Little things matter.  

Criticism is something that everyone deals with to some extent or another.  For those in leadership positions, it comes with the territory.  Some criticism is constructive, and some is not.  This week we deal with how to handle the criticism that isn't helpful.  We discuss dealing with the critical person that "always has an opinion."