Today, we turn our attention to the powerful and poignant advice found in Proverbs 23:26 - "My son, my daughter, give me your heart." This verse speaks volumes not just to those discovering their faith, but also to believers in Jesus Christ. It resonates with those of us who may find, despite our faith, a growing coldness or lethargy within our hearts.

Pastor Colin Smith guides us through this journey, encouraging us to return our hearts into God’s caring hands, especially in times when we might question the warmth and sincerity of our own faith. This exploration takes us into the heart of what it means to be both a follower of Christ and a child beloved by God.

The condition of our hearts is central to our walk with God. Psalm 51 reflects a longing for not just forgiveness, but also for a transformative renewal - to have a heart that loves God more than sin. Pastor Colin asserts that, as forgiven sinners with new hearts, there’s more to our journey in Christ; God calls for our hearts to be fully turned towards Him.

Many believe that to come to God, one must first purify their heart, but as Pastor Colin clarifies, the gospel invites us to come to God with our imperfect hearts so that He can renew them.

In this episode, we explore the different ways our hearts can lead us astray – from whom we admire to how we make decisions, and where we choose to invest our lives. But there's hope, as we're reminded that Jesus Christ came to give us a new heart, one aligned with God's will. For those listening and recognising a need for a heart transformation, Pastor Colin's message is clear: come to Jesus Christ not because you are right, but because He can put you right.

Our discussion will also cover the story of King Solomon and his son Rehoboam, an illustrative tale that cautions against the dangers of ignoring wisdom and choosing the wrong path. It's a poignant reminder that even those raised in faith need to make a conscious decision to follow God and invest in truth.

Today we're delving into a profound topic that touches the very essence of who we are: the heart. Often regarded as the command and control center of our lives, the heart is the most profound part of our being, directing the course of our lives and foreshadowing our future. Pastor Colin explores the significance of the heart, especially in times when we confront the truth about our heart's condition and yearn for change.

In today's episode, Pastor Colin teaches us that transformation is at the heart of the gospel promise—replacing a heart of stone with a warm, responsive heart of flesh. We’re diving into Proverbs 23 and examining how Solomon's instruction to his son carries a timeless message to guard the heart as the fountain of life. Even with the ideal external attributes of behavior or knowledge, without the heart being rightly placed, one may still lose the way.

Whether it's a father addressing his son or our Heavenly Father speaking to us, the crux of the message remains: "Give me your heart." This statement is not born out of emotional neediness, but from the depths of divine wisdom, with a plea for our ultimate good.

Elijah's life was a testament to faithful living, and rather than scrambling to make peace with God in his final hours, he rested in the peace that had underscored his entire relationship with God. Pastor Colin's message today underscores that it's never too late for our most significant work with Jesus Christ. So for those listening in your later years, be encouraged that your influence may just be beginning.

"Elijah did not spend his last day on earth making peace with God because he already had peace with God." - ponder on this profound thought as we venture into the rich biblical landscape of 2 Kings 2. Discover how Elijah's final day was spent - not in anxious toil, but in purposeful farewells to those he mentored. Realise how his story transcends time, challenging us to consider our own peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.

Often, we measure our lives by the successes we achieve. Yet, in today's episode, Pastor Smith reveals that in God's story, our impact can be far greater than we ever imagined, even when we face disappointments or feel we've fallen short of our hopes.

In our journey through scripture, it becomes evident that while Elijah faced many hardships and even despondency, his legacy extended beyond his immediate circumstances. His true accomplishment was not in the dramatic showdown at Mount Carmel but rather in the quieter, yet profound influence he had on future generations of prophets. Indeed, our influence reaches further than we may believe.

We are all called to invest in those who will carry the torch of faith after us. By encouraging the next generation of leaders, we can leave an indelible mark that outlasts our time on earth. So, as we explore the "Your Influence Lasts Longer Than You Think" message, let's revel in the surprise ending of Elijah's story and remember the extraordinary ways God uses faithful lives to achieve His purpose.

Oftentimes, we see figures of staunch faith in phases of deep weariness; it's a human experience that doesn't exclude the diligent servant. Today's narrative brings to light Elijah's journey, a story that isn't about grand triumph, but humility before God, facing his dimming zeal.

In our lives, the feeling of being singularly left to face hardships, much like Elijah felt, may seem all too real. But herein lies the uplifting message: God's enduring presence by our side, especially when we're at our lowest. Pastor Colin speaks to that tender care of our Lord that rejuvenates his people not only with rest but with purpose.

Our exploration leads us to 1 Kings, chapter 19, and it's an encouragement to open your Bible and join in. By engaging with this tale of the 'Honorably Wounded,' the hope is for it to unfold as a revelation within you, that you matter to God profoundly — beyond your deeds.

In today's episode, we encounter Elijah wrestling with despair despite witnessing God's power at Mount Carmel. The victory that should have propelled him to greater heights instead precedes a fall into fear and discouragement. Such profound experiences aren't exclusive to ancient prophets—many of us might relate to Elijah's heartache in response to unforeseen challenges. His story reminds us that even the most devoted servants can find themselves in the grip of desolation.

But here's the good news: Other believers have walked this path. If you're trudging through similar darkness or battling discouragement, you're not alone. The life of Elijah offers both solace and lessons, illustrating that God never abandons His people, even when they're honourably wounded.

Are you ever discouraged when prayers seem to go unanswered? Perhaps you've been praying earnestly for years, but the heavens seem silent. Today, Colin offers us valuable insights from Elijah's story in 1 Kings chapter 18—a man who knew the trials of persistent prayer.

In today's lesson, entitled 'Prayer 101', Pastor Smith shares the transformative practice of praying with clarity and conviction, offering us seven Ps for effective prayer: Position, Private, Promise, Precision, Passion, and Persistence. Discover how Elijah's example can fuel our own prayer lives, encouraging us not to give up, but to continue seeking God fervently.

In a society filled with instant gratification, waiting on the Lord's timing can be challenging. However, Colin reminds us that like Elijah, we can experience the fruits of our prayers if only we remain steadfast in faith. So, buckle up as we delve into a powerful messaging on praying God's promises, and position yourself to experience the refreshment that comes with a prayer life rooted in scripture and suffused with genuine desire.

Remember, unanswered prayers are not ignored prayers—keep asking, seeking, and knocking. Listen closely as Colin unwraps the heart of persistent prayer, and let's engage together in 'prayer that avails much'.

On today's programme, we're delving deep into the true essence of Christian praying. Pastor Colin emphasizes that the goal of such prayer is not to achieve relaxation of the body – it's far more profound.

As we explore this spiritual practice, we must understand that biblical prayer entails engaging the mind, focusing thoughts, and communing with God. A stark contrast to certain forms of mysticism that encourage an empty mind, Christian prayer invites us to fill our mind with God's presence. With the guidance of an open Bible, prayer becomes a dynamic and meaningful dialogue.

For those feeling uncertain about prayer, this broadcast is your stepping-stone – a primer, if you will, on initiating a prayerful life. Pastor Colin shares seven practical pointers on effective prayer, each beginning with the letter 'P', derived from the life and prayers of the prophet Elijah, a man whose prayers were met with divine responses.

In today's broadcast, Pastor Colin explores the powerful story of Elijah on Mount Carmel, where the prophets of Baal find their cries met with silence, while the true God responds with might. This biblical account challenges us to reflect deeply on the focus of our lives. Are we placing our hopes in things that, ultimately, cannot fulfil our deepest needs?

Philip Ryken aptly notes that success, pleasure, and personal beauty, though often idolised, remain incapable of answering our prayers. They are silent when we need them most. Yet, there is one who hears and saves—God Himself, the one who corresponds to the name we call upon.

Join us as we probe into 1 Kings 18:20-40, drawing a "Line in the Sand," and discover why it's essential to anchor your life in someone who can genuinely respond to your call for help.