The Daily Grind

The Daily Grind

By John SpencerReligion & SpiritualityChristianity
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The Daily Grind episodes

  • 058 The Christian Life: Not hard…Impossible!

    Wednesday, August 22: Are you feeling defeated in your Christian walk? Do you feel like you're constantly struggling to live a holy life? If so, you're not alone. The truth is, the Christian life is impossible to live on our own. But there's good news! Jesus came to make us new creations, and He wants to live His life through us. In this episode, we'll explore what it means to surrender our lives to Christ and let Him lead us. We'll also talk about the importance of trusting in His power to help us overcome sin and live victoriously.

    Email me your questions, comments, and suggestions. I'd love to hear from you!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ If y'all wanna talk more 'bout this, I'm all ears. Just give me a holler. You can also help by sending me your favorite trivia or dad joke(s) at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  Or respond below with comments, trivia or jokes.

    Colossians 2:6-7 – as you received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in him,  rooted and built up in him and established in the faith, just as you were taught, abounding in thanksgiving.

    Galatians 3:1-5 – O foolish Galatians! Who has bewitched you? It was before your eyes that Jesus Christ was publicly portrayed as crucified. Let me ask you only this: Did you receive the Spirit by works of the law or by hearing with faith? Are you so foolish? Having begun by the Spirit, are you now being perfected by the flesh?  Did you suffer so many things in vain—if indeed it was in vain? Does he who supplies the Spirit to you and works miracles among you do so by works of the law, or by hearing with faith.

    2 Corinthians 12:8-10 – Three times I pleaded with the Lord about this, that it should leave me. But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong.

    2 Peter 1:3 – His divine power has granted to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of him who called us to his own glory and excellence.

    1 John 4:9 – In this the love of God was made manifest among us, that God sent his only Son into the world, so that we might live through him.

    Galatians 2:20 – I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.

    15 min
  • 057 Lessons from the Waiting Room: Being Present in the Moment

    Tuesday, August 22: In this episode of "The Daily Grind," we embark on a spiritual journey following in the footsteps of Jesus, striving to embody His teachings in our lives. Along the way, we come to realize the importance of remaining present in the moment and being still, despite the chaos and instant gratification of our world. As we learn valuable lessons from the waiting room, we discover that true freedom and peace lie in the sanctity of the present moment, where we can truly know God and experience His presence. However, we often find ourselves slipping into a self-life and missing the Christ-life we aim to embody. The good news is that God's love extends to us just as we are, not as we should be. Join us as we explore the power of abiding in Jesus and embracing our identity in Him, finding tranquility and clarity in the here and now.

    Email me your questions, comments, and suggestions. I'd love to hear from you!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ If y'all wanna talk more 'bout this, I'm all ears. Just give me a holler. You can also help by sending me your favorite trivia or dad joke(s) at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  Or respond below with comments, trivia or jokes.


    15 min
  • 056 The Prayer of Examen: A Tool for Knowing God and Yourself Better Psalm 139

    Monday, August 21: In this episode, we explore the prayer of examen, a simple yet powerful way to grow closer to God and ourselves. We'll learn how to use

    this prayer to reflect on our day, identify areas where we need God's guidance, and grow in our understanding of ourselves and God's love for us.

    We'll also look at Psalm 139, which provides a beautiful and inspiring backdrop for this prayer. This psalm reminds us that God knows us intimately, even better than we know ourselves. It also challenges us to be open to God's transforming work in our lives.

    By the end of this episode, you'll have a better understanding of the prayer of examen and how you can use it to grow in your relationship with God.

    Here are some additional thoughts on the passage:

    • The prayer of examen is a simple but profound way to grow closer to God and ourselves.
    • It can help us to identify areas where we need God's guidance and to grow in our understanding of ourselves and God's love for us.
    • Psalm 139 is a beautiful and inspiring backdrop for this prayer. It reminds us that God knows us intimately, even better than we know
      • ourselves.
    • By practicing the prayer of examen, we can open ourselves to God's transforming work in our lives.

      •  

      Email me your questions, comments, and suggestions. I'd love to hear from you!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ If y'all wanna talk more 'bout this, I'm all ears. Just give me a holler. You can also help by sending me your favorite trivia or dad joke(s) at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  Or respond below with comments, trivia or jokes.

      Psalm 139:1-24; 1 Chronicles 28:9

      15 min
    • 055 Mariza and John discuss 23rd Psalm

      Friday, 18 August: In this episode, Mariza and I explore Psalm 23, which is often called the "Psalm of Assurance." We discuss the imagery of the shepherd and the sheep, and how this psalm can help us to trust in God's love and care.

      We also share some personal stories about how we have found comfort and hope in Psalm 23, and we encourage listeners to turn to this psalm when they are feeling lost or afraid.

      Here are some additional thoughts on the passage:

      • Psalm 23 is a beautiful reminder that God is our shepherd. He is always with us, leading us and guiding us.
      • The psalm also assures us that God will provide for our needs. He will make us lie down in green pastures and lead us beside quiet waters.
      • No matter what we are going through, we can trust in God's love and care. He is our shepherd, and he will never abandon us.

        • Email me your questions, comments, and suggestions. I'dlove to hear from you!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ If y'all wanna talk more 'bout this, I'm all ears. Just give me a holler. You can also help by sending me your favorite trivia or dad joke(s) at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  Or respond below with comments, trivia or jokes. 

        31 min
      • 054 The Cry of the Savior: A Meditation on Psalm 22 and the Cross of Christ

        Thursday, 17 August: In this episode, John explores the connection between the words of Jesus on the cross and the ancient Psalm 22. He shows how both texts speak of hope, trust, and perseverance in the midst of suffering.

        And encourages listeners to never give up on God, no matter how difficult things may seem.

        Here are some additional thoughts on the passage:

        • Psalm 22 is a powerful reminder that we are not alone in our suffering. Jesus experienced the same pain and abandonment that we do, and he understands our deepest sorrows.
        • The cross of Christ is the ultimate expression of God's love and mercy. Jesus' death paid the penalty for our sins, and his resurrection guarantees our victory over death.
        • We can find hope in the midst of suffering by trusting in God's love and mercy. No matter what we are going through, God is with us and he will never abandon us.

          • Email me your questions, comments, and suggestions. I'dlove to hear from you!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ If y'all wanna talk more 'bout this, I'm all ears. Just give me a holler. You can

          also help by sending me your favorite trivia or dad joke(s) at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  Or respond below with comments, trivia or jokes.

          15 min
        • 053 A Meditation on Psalm 16 and the Assurance of God's Presence

          Wednesday, 16 August: In this episode, John explores Psalm 16, which speaks of the assurance of God's presence. He draws on the insights of Henri Nouwen and Tim Keller to show how we can find refuge in God's love, even in the midst of uncertainty.

          These stories about how Time Keller has experienced God's presence in his own life, encourage us to trust in God's love and care, no matter what challenges we face.

          Here are some additional thoughts on the passage:

          • Psalm 16 is a powerful reminder that we are never alone. God is always with us, even when we can't see him.
          • The resurrection of Jesus Christ is the ultimate assurance of God's love and care. Jesus conquered death, and he promises to do the same for us.
          • We can find refuge in God's love by trusting him completely. When we trust God, we can let go of our fears and anxieties and rest in his peace.

            • Read Psalms 16:1-11 and Hebrews 13:5-6

            Email me your questions, comments, and suggestions. I'dlove to hear from you!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ If y'all wanna talk more 'bout this, I'm all ears. Just give me a holler. You can also help by sending me your favorite trivia or dad joke(s) at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  Or respond below with comments, trivia or jokes ,

            16 min
          • 052 The Path of the Righteous and the Wicked: Reflection on Psalm 1

            Tuesday, 15 August: In this episode, John explores Psalm 1, which offers a stark contrast between the paths of the righteous and the wicked. He discusses the importance of delighting in God's Word and meditating on it day and night, and he challenges listeners to make a choice about what they will love and desire.

            John also shares some personal stories about how he has tried to follow the path of the righteous, and he encourages listeners to be intentional about their choices and to seek God's wisdom in all areas of their lives.

            Here are some additional thoughts on the passage:

            • Psalm 1 is a powerful reminder that our choices matter. When we choose to delight in God's Word and to follow his ways, we are choosing a path that leads to life and blessing.
            • The wicked person, on the other hand, is like a useless husk that is blown away by the wind. They are ultimately headed for destruction.
            • We all have a choice to make. Will we follow the path of the righteous or the path of the wicked? The choice is ours.

              • New Testament passages that underscore the connection between devotion to God's Word and righteous living include: 

              • Matthew 7:24–27, where Jesus employs a well-known analogy to contrast two foundations for life: one built on His teachings and another not. Solid foundations matter, both in construction and in one's worldview. Those who live by Jesus' teachings are akin to a wise person building on a rock, while those who disregard His teachings are like a foolish person constructing on sand. 

              • Colossians 3:16–17, where Paul lists virtues that Christians should aspire to exhibit, including compassion, humility, patience, forgiveness, and above all, love. These qualities bind believers together as a united family under Christ's guidance. 

              • 2 Timothy 3:16–17, which highlights the stark contrast between the behavior of false teachers and the conduct exemplified by Paul and Timothy. Paul encourages Timothy to stick to his teachings and to rely on the unwavering defense against error: the inspired Scriptures. 

              • James 1:19–25, emphasizing that true trust in God goes beyond outward appearances of religiosity. It involves humbly receiving God's Word, acting upon it, and exercising control over our words and emotions. 

              • 2 Peter 1:19–21, focusing on fulfilled prophecies about Christ and Peter's firsthand experience of the transfiguration as confirmation of their authenticity. 

                • Email me your questions, comments, and suggestions. I'd love to hear from you!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ If y'all wanna talk more 'bout this, I'm all ears. Just give me a holler. You can also help by sending me your favorite trivia or dad joke(s) at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  Or respond below with comments, trivia or jokes    

                18 min
              • 051 The Psalms: A Language to Engage God in Our Full Spectrum of Emotions and Experiences

                Monday, 14 August, 2023: In this episode, John explores the Psalms as a profound language to engage with God in the full spectrum of our emotions and

                experiences. He discusses how the Psalms can help us to express our anguish, joy, confusion, and confidence to God, and how they can lead us to a place of
                hope and renewed joy.

                John also shares some personal stories about how the Psalms have helped him to connect with God in difficult times. He encourages listeners to embrace the power of raw honesty and meticulous thoroughness in their prayers, and to find comfort in the Psalms as they journey through life.

                Here are some additional thoughts on the passage:

                • The Psalms are a powerful tool that can help us to connect with God and to grow in our faith.
                • The Psalms can help us to express our emotions to God in a way that is both honest and authentic.
                • The Psalms can lead us to a place of hope and renewed joy, even in the midst of difficult circumstances.
                • The Psalms are a treasure trove of wisdom that can guide us through life.


                  • Email me your questions, comments, and suggestions. I'd love to hear from you!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ If y'all wanna talk more 'bout this, I'm all ears. Just give me a holler. You can

                  also help by sending me your favorite trivia or dad joke(s) at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  Or respond below with comments, trivia or jokes.

                  15 min
                • 050 The Lord's Prayer, A Template for Our Prayers (Sermon on the Mount with Mariza cont.)

                  Friday, 11 August: In this episode, John and Mariza explore the Lord's Prayer, looking at what the different aspects of the prayer mean and how it can serve as a template for our own prayers. They discuss how the Lord's Prayer can help us to focus on God's will, to ask for our daily needs, and to forgive others. They also share some of their own personal experiences with using the Lord's Prayer.

                  Join John and Mariza as they explore this classic prayer and learn how it can enrich our own faith.

                  Here are some additional thoughts on the passage:

                  • The Lord's Prayer is a powerful tool that can help us to connect with God and to grow in our faith.
                  • The prayer can be used as a template for our own prayers, helping us to focus on what is most important.
                  • The Lord's Prayer can help us to forgive others and to ask for forgiveness.
                  • The Lord's Prayer is a reminder that God is always with us and that he is in control.

                    • Dallas Willard's paraphrase of the Lord's Prayer:

                    “Dear Father always near us, may your name be treasured and loved, may your rule be completed in us -may your will be done here on earth in just the way it is done in heaven. Give us today the things we need today, and forgive us our sins and impositions on you as we are forgiving all who in any way offend us. Please don’t put us through trials, but deliver us from everything bad. Because you are the one in charge, and you have all the power, and the glory too is all yours-forever- which is just the way we want it!”

                    Email me your questions, comments, and suggestions. I'dlove to hear from you!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ If y'all wanna talk more 'bout this, I'm all ears. Just give me a holler. You can also help by sending me your favorite trivia or dad joke(s) at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  Or respond below with comments, trivia or jokes    

                    26 min
                  • 049 Using God's Words to Fuel Our Prayers

                    Thursday, 10 August: In this episode, we'll be exploring the importance of using God's words when we pray. We'll look at Colossians 3:16 and 4:2, where Paul encourages the Colossians to "let the word of Christ dwell in you richly" and "always keep up the habit of praying." We'll also discuss the pre-modern method of engaging the Bible known as lectio divina, which sees the Bible as the living word of God through which he still speaks and communes with us.

                    We'll learn that when we use God's words in our prayers, we're not just reciting empty phrases. We're inviting God to speak to us through his word and to transform us by his Spirit. We'll also discover that lectio divina is a powerful way to deepen our relationship with God and to experience his presence in our lives.

                    Join us for this episode as we explore the power of using God's words to fuel our prayers.

                    Here are some additional thoughts on the passage:

                    • When we use God's words in our prayers, we're not just reciting empty phrases. We're inviting God to speak to us through his word and to transform us by his Spirit.
                    • Lectio divina is a powerful way to deepen our relationship with God and to experience his presence in our lives.
                    • When we approach the Bible as a doorway through which we see and know God, we'll find its value in prayer to be immense.

                      • Email me your questions, comments, and suggestions. I'd love to hear from you!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ If y'all wanna talk more 'bout this, I'm all ears. Just give me a holler. You can also help by sending me your favorite trivia or dad joke(s) at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  Or respond below with comments, trivia or jokes    

                      14 min

                    About The Daily Grind

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                    Howdy, y'all! Welcome to The Daily Grind with your host, John Spencer. Grab a mug of your favorite brew and get ready to become the sharpest tool in the shed when it comes to water cooler chatter,…