Ever feel like what you want is pulling you in the wrong direction?

In this message, we unpack how desire—something God created as good—can still lead to tension in our relationship with Jesus when it’s misplaced. From a personal story about wanting shoes to powerful truths in Scripture (James 1:14–15, Ecclesiastes 3:11), this is all about understanding what’s really going on inside us.

We were made to want more… but somewhere along the way, we started settling for less—approval, status, relationships—things that never fully satisfy.

The truth?You’re not desiring too much.You might just be desiring the wrong things.

God isn’t against your happiness—He’s where it’s found.

If you’ve been chasing things that leave you empty, this one’s for you.

In this message, we explore the powerful story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego in Daniel 3:10–28, where they are commanded to bow to King Nebuchadnezzar’s golden image or be thrown into a blazing furnace. Despite the threat, they boldly declare in Daniel 3:17–18 that God is able to deliver them—but even if He doesn’t, they will not compromise their faith.

As the story unfolds (Daniel 3:18–20, 24–25), the king orders the furnace to be heated hotter than ever—but instead of being destroyed, the men are seen walking unharmed in the fire, with a fourth figure among them. Their faith leads to a miraculous moment that ultimately causes the king to honor God.

This message challenges us to examine our own faith in light of today’s culture, reminding us to stand firm and trust God—no matter the outcome.

In “Spiritual Gifts from 30,000 Feet,” we take a big-picture look at what the Bible says about Spiritual Gifts and why they matter. God doesn’t want His people to be confused about the gifts He has given them—and He didn’t make a mistake when He gave you yours.

In this message we explore three key questions:• What are Spiritual Gifts?• How do I know what my Spiritual Gifts are?• What do I do with my Spiritual Gifts?

God uniquely designed you and equipped you with gifts to serve others and build His Kingdom. But Spiritual Gifts won’t fully make sense unless we first accept the greatest gift of all—salvation through Jesus.

If you’ve ever wondered how God has wired you or how you can serve more effectively, this message will help you see the bigger picture.

The Holy Spirit isn’t just a concept. He’s our Helper.

In this message we talk about how the Spirit:

• Convicts us of sin and calls us higher

• Grows us in holiness when we’re frustrated, harsh, or disappointed in ourselves

• Strengthens us internally when life feels heavy 

• Seals us in faith when seasons feel uncertain 

• Gives us spiritual gifts to serve others

This is practical theology for real life.

If you’ve ever wondered whether you’ve got what it takes to follow Jesus long term, this is for you.

In this episode of Local Convos, interns at The Local share why they said yes to investing and serving in the church. We talk about how we 1st got involved serving, what barriers young adults face in investing into the local church, and simple steps of how to go all in with the gift's God has given you. If you're a young adults navigating how to get involved in the church, feeling like you are made for more, or wrestling with using your gifts to serve, this convo is for you.

What does it really mean to walk by the Spirit? And why does it matter?

In Galatians 5:13–25, we’re reminded that the way we walk—the way we live our daily lives—reveals the true king of our hearts. Every decision, attitude, and action points to who is leading us.

When we walk by the Spirit, we choose to let Him guide our thoughts, desires, and direction. It’s more than behavior modification—it’s surrender. It’s living in step with the presence of God and acknowledging Jesus as King over every area of our lives.

Dating is not just vibes and butterflies. It shapes your future.

In this message we talk about why dating actually matters and how God’s Word gives us a framework for healthy relationships. The Bible may not talk about modern dating but it is very clear about intentional pursuit purpose and commitment.

We unpack why marriage is serious and why dating should be too. You will hear about agape love what humility really looks like and why fruit matters more than perfection. This is about joy and attraction but also responsibility growth and long term vision.

If you are dating someone thinking about dating or recovering from dating mistakes this message is for you. Healthy boundaries bring clarity. Clarity is kindness. And it is never too late to begin again.

Doubt doesn’t disqualify you. In John 20:24–31, we see how Jesus meets Thomas right in the middle of his doubts—and responds with grace, not rejection.

If you’ve ever questioned, struggled, or wondered where God is in the middle of uncertainty, this message is for you. Doubt isn’t the end of faith—it can actually be the doorway to deeper trust in Jesus.

Main takeaway: You can come to Jesus with your doubts. He’s not afraid of them, and He uses them to grow our faith.

You've probably been told you have to pick a side: God or science. Faith or facts. But what if that's a fake debate?

In this message, we're breaking down why science doesn't cancel out faith—it actually reveals God's fingerprints all over creation. We're talking stars, DNA, the precision of Earth's design, and how it all points to something (or Someone) bigger.

Plus, we dive into the story of Francis Collins—the scientist who mapped the entire human genome and went from atheist to believer in the process. Spoiler: science led him to God, not away from Him.

What we're covering:

• Why the "faith vs. science" debate is a false choice
• How the universe and human body show God's design
• The wild story of an atheist geneticist finding faith through his work

In a world that defines goodness by personal standards, Scripture challenges us to look deeper. Drawing from 1 Peter 3:15–16 and 1 Peter 2:9, this message explores the truth that genuine goodness flows from God alone. Without Him, our ideas of “good” fall short of His perfect standard.

As followers of Christ, we are called not only to defend our faith with gentleness and respect, but to proclaim God’s goodness through our words and our lives. Discover how living for Christ points the world to the only true source of goodness.