Vertical Pursuit

It says in scripture that the one who is in control of the deception will literally blind the eyes of mankind. How can we not relate that directly to what we see (or not see) in today’s world? What do we do with that? And, what role does the government, and the vote, play in a Christian’s life? Buckle up, cowboy.

There can be some confusion about what both of these words mean, and certainly negativity, these days, about anything referring to anything masculine. But, in this episode we discuss a new book that sets the record straight on both, and gives practical advice, and a Biblical perspective to the true meaning of masculinity, and what we should aspire to be.

We live in a world of distraction and deception. As a result, we’re seeing a hunger for foundational truth, especially in young people. Foundational truth is Biblical truth. Some of the lost are actually calling for the Bible to be labeled ‘misinformation’ these days. Is that a cause for concern? Yes. Should we worry? No. 

The three young men who stood their ground against King Nebuchadnezzar are legends. Why? Because their faith wasn’t based on an outcome. They believed, even if their prayers weren’t answered. They understood that this isn’t a transactional adventure, and God isn’t a genie in a bottle. 

Do you have idols in your life, or things that are becoming idols? Where do your thoughts go by default? What outcomes or dreams are always on your mind? Purging idols is not easy, but anything that consumes too much of your thinking is taking the place of the Lord. Changing these habits is possible.

Matt is a leader of men, and as a high school basketball coach, a leader of young men. He walked away from the corporate world about a decade ago to become a pastor, and his obedience to that calling is worth celebrating. He is now on the front lines in helping men find their purpose and improve their faith lives. 

Why do negative, and even self-destructive thoughts, come to us so much easier than positive thoughts? Giving ourselves grace can be a massive challenge, but if we don’t learn to do it, it’s possible that it’ll not only take us down, but everyone close to us. 

How did we get where we are? Did we obediently follow God’s plan for our life? And, how do we know if we’ve arrived at our predetermined destination? Perhaps we’re overthinking this. The plan isn’t prefect because we’re perfect; the plan is perfect because God is perfect. 

Anytime a group of two or more people get together, there are natural roles for each individual. It’s easily explained when talking about a sports team, or a business, but is no less important when talking about a family, or a church, or even a group of friends. What is the role of a man, husband or father? Role acceptance leads to chemistry, which leads to culture. As the world works harder to destroy roles, and pushes a “you be you” strategy, push back with a Biblical vision for your role in relationships.

Moral decay is on the rise, and it’s argued that traditional values are oppressive. And, the quest to desensitize the culture to wicked behavior has picked up steam. Lines that were never crossed, like exposing children to debauchery, are now regularly stepped on and over. Christians are called to love, but logic and Biblical values, also deserve a seat at the table.