Your words can strengthen a relationship or slowly tear it apart. Pride, anger, dishonesty, gossip, and reckless speech cause lasting wounds, while humility, integrity, love, and gracious words build trust and bring healing.

In this message from Proverbs 6 and 10-12, Pastor Chris Teien explains how our attitudes and words shape our relationships. Discover how Christ transforms the heart, enabling us to reject destructive attitudes, cultivate love and trust, and speak words that honor God and bless others.

IN THIS MESSAGE

#1 REJECT DESTRUCTIVE ATTITUDES

Pride, dishonesty, sinful motives, and stirring up conflict destroy relationships and grieve the Lord. God calls His people to examine their hearts, confess sin, reject destructive attitudes, and pursue humility, honesty, and unity. (Proverbs 6:16-19)

#2 CULTIVATE LOVE AND TRUST

Healthy relationships require intentional love, integrity, and faithfulness. Christ’s love enables believers to forgive others, build trust, and reflect godly character in every relationship. Like a garden, love and trust must be cultivated patiently over time. (Proverbs 10:12-21; Proverbs 11:1-13)

#3 CHOOSE YOUR WORDS WISELY

Words have the power to wound or heal. Proverbs teaches believers to speak with wisdom, encourage others, protect confidences, and use gracious words that bring life. Careful study of God’s Word also protects us from misunderstanding difficult passages and passing along ideas that are not true. (Proverbs 11:30; Proverbs 12:13-25)

Examine your heart before the Lord. Confess and turn from destructive attitudes, cultivate love and trust, and choose words that bring healing as you seek to follow Christ.

SCRIPTURE

Primary passages: Proverbs 6:16-19; Proverbs 10:12-21; Proverbs 11:1-13, 30; Proverbs 12:13-25

Series: Summer in Proverbs

Transcript available at:
https://www.buzzsprout.com/2285086/episodes/19483369

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I hope this message helps you understand and apply God’s Word. Find sermon transcripts at Well.faith, learn more at ChrisTeien.com, or come visit us at Rockwell Church in Virginia, Minnesota. If this message encouraged you, I’d love to hear from you at [email protected].

Freedom is more than the ability to do whatever we want. Choices that feel freeing can eventually lead to bondage, destruction, and regret.

In this message from Proverbs 2-5, Pastor Chris Teien explains how God’s wisdom leads to freedom, integrity, and lasting security. By revering God, walking in wisdom, refusing the chains of sin, and living with integrity, believers discover the true freedom found in following Jesus Christ.

IN THIS MESSAGE

#1 FREEDOM BEGINS WITH REVERENCE FOR GOD

True freedom begins with fearing the Lord and trusting Him above our own understanding. As we honor God and follow His wisdom, He directs our paths and helps us live according to His will. (Proverbs 3:5-8)

#2 FREEDOM WALKS THE PATH OF WISDOM

God’s wisdom provides practical guidance for everyday life. Those who listen to His instruction, remain teachable, and continue walking in His ways find stability and confidence even through life’s difficulties. (Proverbs 4:10-13)

#3 FREEDOM REFUSES THE CHAINS OF SIN

Sin promises pleasure and independence but ultimately produces bondage and destruction. Proverbs warns believers to reject temptation, pursue purity, and remember that God sees every path we take. (Proverbs 5:3-23)

#4 FREEDOM LIVES WITH INTEGRITY

God watches over those who walk uprightly and preserve wisdom, sound judgment, and discretion. A life of integrity provides confidence, security, and peace as we trust the Lord through every circumstance. (Proverbs 2:7-9; Proverbs 3:21-26)

Choose God’s wisdom over the world’s promises. Trust Him, walk in His ways, refuse the chains of sin, and live with integrity as you experience the true freedom found in Christ.

SCRIPTURE

Primary passages: Proverbs 2:7-9; Proverbs 3:5-8, 21-26; Proverbs 4:10-13; Proverbs 5:3-23

Series: Summer in Proverbs

Transcript available at:
https://www.buzzsprout.com/2285086/episodes/19448870

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I hope this message helps you understand and apply God’s Word. Find sermon transcripts at Well.faith, learn more at ChrisTeien.com, or come visit us at Rockwell Church in Virginia, Minnesota. If this message encouraged you, I’d love to hear from you at [email protected].

Life is a journey filled with decisions, opportunities, and unexpected challenges. We cannot know everything the future will bring, but God’s wisdom can prepare us to face it faithfully.

In this message from Proverbs, Pastor Chris Teien explains how to plan wisely, prepare for potential challenges, carry the right spiritual priorities, and remain ready for whatever lies ahead. As we seek God’s direction and faithfully prepare today, we can move forward with confidence, knowing that the Lord establishes our steps.

IN THIS MESSAGE

#1 PLAN YOUR ROUTE

Wise preparation begins with establishing the right priorities. God’s wisdom teaches us to seek His direction, make thoughtful plans, receive wise counsel, and trust Him to guide every step. (Proverbs 15:22; Proverbs 16:9; Proverbs 24:27)

#2 PREPARE FOR YOUR JOURNEY

Preparation means thinking ahead, recognizing potential dangers, and using the resources God has provided wisely. Those who prepare faithfully are better equipped to serve God through whatever lies ahead. (Proverbs 14:15; Proverbs 22:3)

#3 CARRY WHAT YOU NEED

The greatest preparation is spiritual. Believers are called to carry integrity, faith, God’s promises, and a heart free from bitterness, guilt, and unconfessed sin as they follow Christ. Lay aside whatever hinders you and keep your eyes fixed on Jesus. (Proverbs 10:9, 12; Proverbs 28:13; Hebrews 12:1-2)

#4 STAY READY

Life can change quickly, but God’s people are called to remain spiritually alert and sober-minded. As we depend on the Holy Spirit and trust God’s purposes, we can faithfully serve Him whatever tomorrow brings. (Proverbs 19:21; Proverbs 20:1; Proverbs 31:4-5; Ephesians 5:18; 1 Peter 5:8)

Seek God’s wisdom as you prepare for the future. Trust Him to direct your path, make wise decisions today, and remain faithful wherever He leads.

SCRIPTURE

Proverbs 10:9, 12; Proverbs 14:15; Proverbs 15:22; Proverbs 16:9; Proverbs 19:21; Proverbs 20:1; Proverbs 22:3; Proverbs 24:27; Proverbs 28:13; Proverbs 31:4-5; Ephesians 5:18; Hebrews 12:1-2; 1 Peter 5:8

Series: Summer in Proverbs

Transcript available at:
https://www.buzzsprout.com/2285086/episodes/19414561

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I hope this message helps you understand and apply God’s Word. Find sermon transcripts at Well.faith, learn more at ChrisTeien.com, or come visit us at Rockwell Church in Virginia, Minnesota. If this message encouraged you, I’d love to hear from you at [email protected].

Every believer has an opportunity to influence someone for Jesus Christ. Whether you are a parent, grandparent, mentor, teacher, or friend, faithful leadership begins with following Christ yourself.

In this message from Proverbs, Pastor Chris Teien explains how God’s wisdom equips us to lead by example, intentionally teach biblical truth, and leave a lasting legacy of faith. Discover how your everyday choices, conversations, and priorities can influence the people God has placed in your life.

IN THIS MESSAGE

#1 LEAD THROUGH YOUR EXAMPLE

People learn as much from our lives as they do from our words. A life marked by integrity, humility, and faithfulness provides a powerful example for those God has placed in our care. Spiritual leadership begins with personally choosing to follow and serve the Lord. (Proverbs 20:7; Joshua 24:15)

#2 TEACH GOD’S TRUTH INTENTIONALLY

God’s Word should fill our hearts before it shapes the lives of others. As we intentionally teach Scripture through everyday conversations, correction, encouragement, and faithful instruction, we help others build their lives on God’s truth. (Deuteronomy 6:6-9; Proverbs 22:6; Ephesians 6:4)

#3 BUILD A LEGACY OF FAITH

A lasting legacy is not measured primarily by possessions or accomplishments, but by passing God’s wisdom to the next generation. As we pursue wisdom ourselves, we encourage others to know, trust, and follow the Lord. (Proverbs 3:5-10; Proverbs 4:1-9)

Lead others by faithfully following Christ yourself. Pursue God’s wisdom, live what you teach, and invest intentionally in the people God has placed in your life.

SCRIPTURE

Primary passage: Proverbs 4:1-9

Supporting passages: Deuteronomy 6:6-9; Joshua 24:15; Proverbs 3:5-10; Proverbs 20:7; Proverbs 22:6; Ephesians 6:4

Series: Summer in Proverbs

Transcript available at:
https://www.buzzsprout.com/2285086/episodes/19380307

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I hope this message helps you understand and apply God’s Word. Find sermon transcripts at Well.faith, learn more at ChrisTeien.com, or come visit us at Rockwell Church in Virginia, Minnesota. If this message encouraged you, I’d love to hear from you at [email protected].

Who is shaping your life? Voices from friends, family, social media, entertainment, and culture compete for your attention and influence the direction of your life.

In this message from Proverbs 1 and 4, Pastor Chris Teien explains how God’s wisdom helps us recognize wise influences, reject harmful ones, choose the right path, and guard our hearts as we follow Christ. In a world filled with competing voices, believers need discernment to determine whom they will trust and where those influences are leading them.

IN THIS MESSAGE

#1 LISTEN TO WISE VOICES

God has provided His Word, faithful believers, and godly examples to guide our lives. Wise people remain teachable, seek biblical counsel, and learn from those who faithfully follow Christ. (Proverbs 1:8; Proverbs 12:15; Proverbs 13:20; Romans 15:4)

#2 AVOID HARMFUL INFLUENCES

Sin often appears attractive, but it always leads away from God’s path. Believers are called to reject sinful pressure, refuse compromise, and avoid influences that lead toward destruction. Small compromises can eventually carry us much farther from God than we intended to go. (Proverbs 1:10-19)

#3 CHOOSE THE RIGHT PATH

Our daily decisions determine the direction of our lives. God’s wisdom calls us to walk in righteousness, remain faithful through ordinary choices, and encourage others to follow Christ. Strong Christian lives are built through thousands of decisions to keep walking with Him. (Proverbs 4:10-19)

#4 GUARD YOUR HEART

The condition of our hearts shapes our words, actions, and direction in life. By filling our hearts with God’s truth, carefully choosing what influences us, and keeping our focus on Christ, we are equipped to live wisely and faithfully. (Proverbs 4:20-27)

Choose God’s wisdom over the competing voices of the world. Listen to godly counsel, avoid harmful influences, guard your heart, and faithfully follow the path Christ has set before you.

SCRIPTURE

Primary passages: Proverbs 1:8-19; Proverbs 4:10-27

Supporting passages: Proverbs 12:15; Proverbs 13:20; Romans 15:4

Series: Summer in Proverbs

Transcript available at:
https://www.buzzsprout.com/2285086/episodes/19356952

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I hope this message helps you understand and apply God’s Word. Find sermon transcripts at Well.faith, learn more at ChrisTeien.com, or come visit us at Rockwell Church in Virginia, Minnesota. If this message encouraged you, I’d love to hear from you at [email protected].

In this message from Proverbs 1 and Proverbs 4, Pastor Chris Teien explores how the voices and influences we allow into our lives shape our character, decisions, and leadership. In a world filled with competing messages from social media, culture, friends, family, and entertainment, God's wisdom teaches believers how to discern truth and choose influences that lead toward righteousness. 

Link: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2285086/episodes/19344461

Through practical examples, biblical instruction, and personal illustrations, listeners are challenged to seek wise counsel, avoid harmful influences, and walk the path God has prepared for them. This message reminds us that every choice and every influence helps determine the direction of our lives. 

Key Points:

1.  Listen to Wise Voices (Proverbs 1:8-9; Romans 15:4) – God uses parents, mentors, Scripture, biographies, and faithful believers to help guide us in wisdom. 
2.  Learn from the Experience of Others (Proverbs 12:15; Proverbs 13:20) – Wise people remain teachable and learn from both the successes and failures of those who have gone before them. 
3.  Avoid Harmful Influences (Proverbs 1:10-19; 1 Corinthians 15:33) – Sin often presents itself through temptation, peer pressure, acceptance, greed, and shortcuts that ultimately lead to destruction. 
4.  Choose the Right Path (Proverbs 4:14-19) – God calls believers to walk in righteousness, reject compromise, and trust Him even when obedience requires difficult decisions. 

Personal Stories from Pastor Chris:

Pastor Chris shared how biographies of missionaries, pastors, and Christian leaders have influenced his own ministry and spiritual growth. He reflected on lessons learned from C.T. Studd, C.H. Spurgeon, A.W. Tozer, John Knox, and others. He also shared stories about older believers who lived through difficult times and a humorous illustration about dogs learning behaviors from one another, demonstrating how influence affects everyone. 

Notable Quotes:

"Everybody that's a leader has been led by somebody and influenced by somebody."

"Fools think their own way is right, but the wise listen to others."

"Proverbs 1 focuses on the sales pitch of sin."

"Sin always promises more than it delivers." 

Actionable Takeaways:

• Evaluate the voices that most influence your thinking and decisions.

• Seek wisdom from Scripture and mature believers.

• Refuse invitations that lead toward compromise and sin.

• Become a godly influence in the lives of others.

Scripture References:

Proverbs 1:8-19; Proverbs 4:14-19; Proverbs 12:15; Proverbs 13:20; Romans 15:4; 1 Corinthians 15:33. 

Keywords:

Proverbs, Wisdom, Christian Leadership, Godly Influence, Biblical Wisdom, Discipleship, Spiritual Growth, Christian Living, Wise Counsel, Character

Challenge:

Ask God to help you identify wise influences, reject harmful voices, and faithfully walk the path of wisdom He has prepared for you.

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Chris Teien, Pastor of Rockwell Church in Virginia, Minnesota, shares biblical preaching and practical encouragement through the WELL Faith Sermon Audio Podcast, along with occasional guest speakers. New messages are shared every week to encourage you in your faith and help you apply God's Word to your life. Learn more at ChrisTeien.com and Rockwell.church

Every wise decision begins with the right foundation. In this message from Proverbs 1, Pastor Chris Teien explains why true wisdom begins with the fear of the Lord and how believers can pursue God’s wisdom for every area of life.

God’s wisdom is more than knowledge. It is the God-given ability to understand and apply biblical truth to everyday decisions. As we recognize our need for wisdom, honor the Lord, and continually seek His guidance, we build our lives on a foundation that will endure.

IN THIS MESSAGE

#1 RECOGNIZE YOUR NEED FOR WISDOM

God calls His people to seek wisdom rather than rely solely on their own understanding. Solomon recognized that he needed God’s help to lead faithfully, so he humbly asked for discernment. Wise believers acknowledge their limitations and seek God’s direction for everyday life. (1 Kings 3:9-12; Proverbs 1:2-6)

#2 LIVE IN THE FEAR OF THE LORD

The fear of the Lord is the foundation of true wisdom. This does not mean living in terror of God. It means approaching Him with reverence, trusting His authority, and responding with humble obedience. Honoring God should shape every decision we make. (Proverbs 1:7; Proverbs 9:10; Psalm 111:10)

#3 CONTINUALLY PURSUE AND APPLY GOD’S WISDOM

Wisdom is not gained accidentally or mastered once for all. Believers are called to seek it diligently, treasure God’s Word, pray for understanding, and faithfully put biblical truth into practice. True wisdom is ultimately found in Jesus Christ. (Proverbs 2:1-6; Colossians 2:2-3; James 1:5, 22)

Seek God’s wisdom above everything else. Honor Him, ask Him for understanding, and faithfully apply His Word as you follow Jesus each day.

SCRIPTURE

Primary passage: Proverbs 1:2-7

Supporting passages: 1 Kings 3:9-12; Psalm 111:10; Proverbs 2:1-6; Proverbs 9:10; Colossians 2:2-3; James 1:5, 22

Series: Summer in Proverbs

Transcript available at:
https://www.buzzsprout.com/2285086/episodes/19309020

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I hope this message helps you understand and apply God’s Word. Find sermon transcripts at Well.faith, learn more at ChrisTeien.com, or come visit us at Rockwell Church in Virginia, Minnesota. If this message encouraged you, I’d love to hear from you at [email protected].

The Christian life is not a sprint but a lifelong race. In this message from Hebrews 12:1-4, Pastor Chris Teien explains how believers can run with endurance by fixing their eyes on Jesus, laying aside every hindrance, and remaining faithful through life's challenges.

God has called every believer to faithfully run the race He has set before them. As we learn from those who have gone before us, remove the things that slow us down, keep our focus on Christ, and persevere through hardship, we can finish the race with confidence and hope.

(Pastor Chris Teien originally preached this replay message in Belle Plaine, MN, in 2017)

In This Message: 

1. Know You Are Being Watched

The faithful examples of Scripture and the influence we have on others remind us that our lives matter. God uses our perseverance to encourage those who are watching us run the race of faith. (Hebrews 12:1)

2. Get Rid of the Stuff That Slows You Down

Believers are called to lay aside every weight and every sin that hinders spiritual growth. Following Christ often requires letting go of distractions, idols, and anything that keeps us from faithfully serving Him. (Hebrews 12:1; 1 John 2:16)

3. Make Sure You're Running the Right Race

The race of faith begins by trusting Jesus Christ as Savior. Eternal life is found in Him alone, and every believer is called to faithfully pursue the path God has prepared. (John 3:16, 36; Romans 6:23; 1 John 5:11-13)

4. Focus on the Champion

Jesus is the perfect example of endurance. By keeping our eyes fixed on Him, we find the strength to persevere, remain faithful, and finish the race God has set before us. (Hebrews 12:2-4)

5. Don't Expect It to Be Easy

The Christian life includes hardship, opposition, and perseverance. God uses every trial to strengthen our faith as we look forward to the eternal reward He has promised. (2 Timothy 3:12; 2 Timothy 4:7-8)

Takeaway

Lay aside every weight that hinders your walk with Christ, keep your eyes fixed on Jesus, and faithfully run the race God has set before you, trusting Him to give you strength to endure.

Illustrations

• A race car driver's testimony demonstrates that lasting success is found in faithfully following Christ rather than merely achieving earthly accomplishments.

• A truck hood unexpectedly flying open illustrates how previous experiences and godly examples prepare us to respond wisely during life's unexpected trials.

• Stories of well-known individuals who overcame rejection remind us that failure does not define our future when we continue trusting God.

Key Quotes

"Your race and my race are different."

"Get rid of the stuff that slows you down."

"Focus on the Champion."

Search Topics

Hebrews 12, race of faith, endurance, perseverance, following Jesus, Christian living, spiritual growth, overcoming trials, biblical encouragement, Pastor Chris Teien

Full Episode & Transcript: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2285086/episodes/16335680

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I hope this message helps you understand and apply God’s Word. Find sermon transcripts at Well.faith, learn more at ChrisTeien.com, or come visit us at Rockwell Church in Virginia, Minnesota. If this message encouraged you, I’d love to hear from you at [email protected].

God delights in using ordinary people to accomplish extraordinary purposes. In this message from Acts 2 and 2 Samuel 23, Pastor Chris Teien explains how the Holy Spirit empowers believers to stand courageously for Christ, faithfully serve His mission, and pour out their lives for God’s glory.

God has not called us merely to survive. Through the Holy Spirit, He equips every believer to live with courage, remain faithful under pressure, serve others, and make an eternal difference by following Jesus with their whole life.

IN THIS MESSAGE

#1 HAVE THE COURAGE TO STAND

God often chooses ordinary people to accomplish extraordinary purposes. David’s mighty men stood faithfully in difficult circumstances, and the Holy Spirit transformed Christ’s fearful disciples into courageous witnesses. God still gives believers the strength to stand faithfully for Him today. (2 Samuel 23; 1 Chronicles 12:18; Acts 2:1-4)

#2 BE FAITHFUL TO THE MISSION

The Holy Spirit empowers believers to serve Christ faithfully, even when sacrifice is required. Every follower of Jesus has been called to participate in God’s mission by serving others, making disciples, and sharing the gospel. (Luke 9:23; Acts 4:13)

#3 WORSHIP THROUGH SACRIFICE

True worship is demonstrated through lives poured out for God’s glory. David honored the Lord by pouring out the water his mighty men risked their lives to bring him. In the same way, believers are called to offer their time, abilities, resources, and lives in faithful service to Christ. (2 Samuel 23:13-17; Philippians 2:17)

Yield yourself to the Holy Spirit each day. Courageously stand for Christ, faithfully serve His mission, and willingly pour out your life for His glory.

SCRIPTURE

Primary passages: 2 Samuel 23:8-17; Acts 2:1-4

Supporting passages: 1 Chronicles 12:18; Luke 9:23; Acts 4:13; Philippians 2:17

Transcript available at:
https://www.buzzsprout.com/2285086/episodes/19231900

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I hope this message helps you understand and apply God’s Word. Find sermon transcripts at Well.faith, learn more at ChrisTeien.com, or come visit us at Rockwell Church in Virginia, Minnesota. If this message encouraged you, I’d love to hear from you at [email protected].

Life is filled with transitions, unexpected changes, and unanswered questions. In this message from Genesis 28-32, Pastor Chris Teien explains how God faithfully guides His people through uncertainty, shapes their character, and prepares them for what comes next.

God’s plans often unfold one step at a time. As we trust His presence, respond in faith, embrace His purposes in every season, and depend on Him daily, we can move forward with confidence, knowing that He is working for our good and His glory.

IN THIS MESSAGE

#1 GOD TRANSFORMS YOUR UNCERTAINTY WITH HIS PRESENCE

When Jacob fled from home with an uncertain future, God met him with a promise of His presence and faithfulness. God’s promises give us confidence even when we cannot see what lies ahead or understand how everything will unfold. (Genesis 28:10-22; Proverbs 3:5-6)

#2 GOD RECEIVES YOUR RESPONSE OF FAITH

Jacob responded to God’s promise with worship, commitment, and trust. God calls us to draw near to Him, keep our commitments faithfully, and seek Him above everything else. (Genesis 28:16-22; Ecclesiastes 5:4-5; James 4:8)

#3 GOD USES EVERY SEASON FOR HIS PURPOSE

God used every season of Jacob’s life, including hardship, waiting, family conflict, and disappointment, to prepare him for the future. Even difficult circumstances can become part of God’s greater purpose for those who love Him. (Genesis 29-31; Romans 8:28)

#4 GOD SHAPES YOUR CHARACTER THROUGH THE JOURNEY

Jacob’s wrestling with God transformed both his character and his identity. God often uses life’s greatest struggles to strengthen our faith, confront our self-reliance, and deepen our dependence upon Him. (Genesis 32:22-30; Philippians 1:6)

#5 GOD TEACHES YOU TO DEPEND ON HIM

Jacob left his encounter with God changed forever. God continues to shape His people through life’s uncertainties, teaching us to trust Him more deeply and rely on His strength rather than our own. Our greatest need is to trust Jesus Christ and openly confess Him as Lord. (Genesis 32:31-32; Romans 10:9-10)

Trust God even when you cannot see what comes next. Walk faithfully according to His promises, depend on His presence, and allow Him to shape your life through every season.

SCRIPTURE

Primary passages: Genesis 28-32

Supporting passages: Proverbs 3:5-6; Ecclesiastes 5:4-5; Romans 8:28; Romans 10:9-10; Philippians 1:6; James 4:8

Transcript available at:
https://www.buzzsprout.com/2285086/episodes/19191831

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I hope this message helps you understand and apply God’s Word. Find sermon transcripts at Well.faith, learn more at ChrisTeien.com, or come visit us at Rockwell Church in Virginia, Minnesota. If this message encouraged you, I’d love to hear from you at [email protected].