Money does more than pay bills. It reveals what we value, whom we trust, and whether we see ourselves as owners or stewards. In a world filled with quick-profit promises and endless financial advice, Scripture offers wisdom that has endured for thousands of years.Pastor Chris Teien shares biblical financial wisdom from Proverbs and the New Testament. Because everything belongs to God, believers are called to manage every resource for His glory. That means acquiring money honestly through diligent work, managing it generously and carefully, using debt cautiously, and treasuring God above every possession. Financial faithfulness is not a path to salvation or a guarantee of wealth. It is an expression of worship and trust in Christ, whose righteousness alone delivers us from eternal death.In this Message:1. Acquire HonestlyGood planning, hard work, integrity, and growing skill normally lead toward provision, while laziness, empty talk, dishonest gain, and hasty shortcuts lead toward loss. Biblical wisdom also recognizes that injustice can keep diligent people from enjoying the fruit of their work, calling those with means to notice and help. (Proverbs 21:5; 10:4; 12:11; 14:23; 22:29; 13:23; 16:8; 20:14)2. Manage GenerouslyGod gives resources to be stewarded, not hoarded. Honor Him first, give cheerfully, care for people in need, save patiently, know the condition of what you own, and avoid consuming everything you receive. Debt may sometimes be necessary, but it should be approached cautiously because the borrower becomes servant to the lender. (Proverbs 3:9; 11:24; 6:6; 21:20; 27:23; 28:27; 22:7; 22:26-27; Matthew 6:33; 2 Corinthians 9:6-11)3. Treasure God UnreservedlyWealth has limited value and can never secure eternity. A godly reputation, contentment, and dependence on God are better than riches that produce dishonesty or turmoil. At death every earthly asset stays behind, but through Christ believers receive the lasting riches of grace and righteousness. (Proverbs 30:7-9; 15:16; 22:1; 11:4; 2 Corinthians 8:9)TakeawayReview your finances as a steward before God. Ask whether your income is earned honestly, whether your spending reflects wise planning, whether your giving is cheerful and generous, whether your debt is limiting your freedom, and whether your heart treasures Christ above money. Choose one concrete act of faithfulness, then carry it out with prayer and integrity.Illustrations

• The $20-a-Day Difference: Spending $20 more than you earn each day produces roughly $7,000 of debt in a year, while saving $20 each day produces roughly $7,000 in savings. Small daily choices accumulate into significant consequences.
• A Retiree Who Keeps Learning: Ken continues learning technology after retirement and uses those skills to serve the church through video and audio ministry. His example shows that faithful people can keep developing useful skills in every season of life.
• A Channel of God’s Blessing: A businessman viewed his ability to earn money as a channel through which God could bless others. He enjoyed God’s provision, but he also gave quietly and generously whenever serious needs arose.

Key Quotes

• “God entrusts us with resources so we will faithfully manage them for His glory.”
• “Work faithfully, spend carefully, save patiently, borrow cautiously, pay what you owe, and avoid shortcuts.”
• “Money cannot deliver us from death. Jesus’ righteousness is what delivers us and makes us truly rich.”

Search Topicsbiblical financial wisdom, Christian money management, Proverbs about money, biblical stewardship principles, how Christians should handle money, generosity and giving, Christian teaching on debt, hard work in Proverbs, saving money biblically, contentment and wealth, putting God first in finances, true riches in ChristFull Episode & Transcript:
https://www.buzzsprout.com/2285086/episodes/19654668

26.0816de Helping you apply God's Word and follow Jesus in everyday life. Learn more at ChrisTeien.com and Rockwell.church  Find episode transcripts at Well.faith

Eternity may feel distant, but none of us knows what tomorrow will bring. This message offers sober hope and practical wisdom for facing death without fear, using your life faithfully, and making certain your confidence rests in Jesus Christ rather than wealth, plans, or religious effort.Drawing from Proverbs and the wider testimony of Scripture, this sermon calls us to live wisely because life is brief and eternity is certain. We should face our future honestly, reject the false security of riches, recognize that eternal life is found only in Christ, and continue walking with Jesus in faithful obedience. Salvation is not earned by good works or careful planning. It is received through faith in Jesus, whose righteousness, sanctification, and redemption secure all who belong to Him.In This Message: 1. Face Your FutureLife is temporary, tomorrow is not guaranteed, and every person will face death and judgment. Wise believers plan humbly, number their days, and make sure they are ready to meet Christ while using whatever time God gives them for His glory. (Proverbs 27:1; James 4:13-15; Psalm 90:12; Proverbs 14:32; Hebrews 9:27; John 11:25-26)2. Forsake False SecurityMoney can solve some temporary problems, but it cannot save a soul, prevent every hardship, or endure forever. Instead of exhausting ourselves to accumulate earthly wealth, Jesus calls us to store up treasure in heaven and place our confidence in Him. (Proverbs 11:4; Proverbs 23:4-5; Matthew 6:19-21)3. Find the Path of LifeMany paths appear right, including paths of morality, religion, and self-improvement, but they cannot give eternal life. Jesus alone is the way to the Father, and in Him believers receive righteousness, sanctification, redemption, and the sure promise of life. (Proverbs 12:28; Proverbs 14:12; Proverbs 15:24; John 14:6; 1 Corinthians 1:24, 30; Acts 4:12; 1 John 5:11-12)4. Follow Jesus FaithfullyThe righteous path grows brighter as believers mature in Christ. Keep walking in Him, growing in faith, reflecting His love, sharing your testimony, and trusting God to complete the work He began in you. (Proverbs 4:18, 26-27; Philippians 1:6; Colossians 2:6-7)TakeawayPrepare for eternity by asking three honest questions: Am I trusting Jesus Christ alone for salvation? Am I using my time, abilities, and resources for what will matter forever? Am I walking faithfully with Christ on the path He has set before me? Make needed plans, share your testimony with your family, put practical affairs in order, and live each day ready to meet the Lord.Illustrations

• The memorial service of Elsie, like her husband Dwayne’s, was placed on YouTube as a lasting testimony of faith in Christ, showing how believers can leave behind more than possessions.
• The long-running musical I Do, I Do traced fifty years of marriage but presented life without God or eternal hope, illustrating how a full earthly life can still miss its ultimate purpose.
• Winnebago travelers could drive wherever they wanted to seek specialized medical care, yet even extensive resources and mobility could not provide the security that only Christ gives.

Key Quotes“The worst thing is not dying. The worst thing is dying without Jesus.”“Do not live as if tomorrow is guaranteed. Plan wisely, but be ready to meet Christ.”“The right path is found only in Jesus Christ.”Search Topicshow to prepare for eternity, Christian view of death, biblical wisdom for life, assurance of salvation in Jesus, living with eternal purpose, what happens after death, storing treasure in heaven, Jesus the only way to salvation, how to number your days, following Jesus faithfully, Proverbs on life and death, preparing spiritually for deathFull Episode & Transcript:
https://www.buzzsprout.com/2285086/episodes/1962178126.0809de Helping you apply God's Word and follow Jesus in everyday life. Learn more at ChrisTeien.com and Rockwell.church  Find episode transcripts at Well.faith

What will matter when your life is spent? Careers, possessions, recognition, and experiences may be valuable, but none of them can provide lasting satisfaction. In this message, Pastor Chris Teien explores how biblical wisdom helps us invest our lives in priorities that endure.Drawing from Proverbs 27, 28, and 31, Pastor Chris explains that a life that counts is shaped by what we pursue, who we are becoming, and how faithfully we fulfill the responsibilities God has given us. Lasting contentment begins when we stop expecting temporary things to do what only God can do. God calls us to pursue eternal priorities, develop godly character, confess and turn from sin, and faithfully steward our relationships, work, resources, and opportunities.In this Message1. Pursue Lasting PrioritiesHuman desire continually asks for more, but possessions, success, recognition, and experiences cannot satisfy the eternal longing God has placed within us. Contentment grows when we recognize God as enough, receive His gifts gratefully, resist living for human applause, and faithfully care for everything He has entrusted to us. (Proverbs 27:20–23; Ecclesiastes 3:11; Luke 16:10)2. Build Godly CharacterIntegrity produces a quiet confidence before God, while hidden sin creates guilt and fear. Biblical wisdom is more than knowing what God has said. It means obeying Him, choosing wise influences, confessing sin, turning from it, receiving God’s mercy, and maintaining a tender heart toward Him. (Proverbs 28:1, 6–7, 13–14; John 14:15; 1 John 1:9)3. Play Your Part FaithfullyThe qualities described in Proverbs 31 extend beyond one particular role. God calls every believer to be trustworthy, diligent, generous, wise, kind, and devoted to Him. Beauty, possessions, and earthly success fade, but godly character and faithful service produce an influence that lasts. (Proverbs 31:10–31; Colossians 3:23)TakeawayAsk yourself three honest questions: What am I pursuing? Who am I becoming? Am I faithfully fulfilling the part God has given me? Identify anything temporary that has begun to compete with God, confess any sin that is hindering your walk with Christ, and recommit your time, relationships, abilities, and resources to serving Him faithfully.Illustrations• Reading Proverbs is not like opening fortune cookies and keeping only the sayings that immediately sound helpful. Biblical wisdom requires careful thought, understanding, and application.• An advertisement can take us from not knowing something exists to believing we must have it immediately, illustrating how quickly human desire begins demanding more.• The Proverbs 31 woman bringing food from afar is humorously compared to buying blueberries from Chile at Walmart, helping listeners distinguish the timeless principles of the passage from its ancient setting.Key Quotes“Contentment begins when we stop expecting temporary things to do what only God can do.”“Integrity gives us the courage to stand for what is right because we know where we stand before God.”“Beauty does not last, but godly character lasts.”Search Topicschoosing what lasts in life, how to live a life that counts, biblical wisdom for daily life, Christian contentment, pursuing eternal priorities, developing godly character, living with integrity, confession and repentance, faithful Christian stewardship, lessons from Proverbs 27, wisdom from Proverbs 28, applying Proverbs 31Full Episode & Transcript:
https://www.buzzsprout.com/2285086/episodes/1958811426.0802de  Helping you apply God's Word and follow Jesus in everyday life. Learn more at ChrisTeien.com and Rockwell.church  Find episode transcripts at Well.faith

What does it take to remain faithful when the world encourages compromise? Throughout history, God has often used ordinary people to make an extraordinary difference simply because they had the courage to stand firm and the conviction to follow Him. In this message, Pastor Chris Teien teaches from Proverbs 22–24, showing how God's wisdom equips believers to guide the next generation, preserve self-control, persevere after failure, and live intentionally for His glory.Like a tugboat quietly guiding much larger ships, faithful Christians can influence their families, churches, and communities in powerful ways. God's wisdom teaches that courage is not about being the loudest or strongest person in the room. It is faithfully following Christ every day and trusting Him to use ordinary lives for extraordinary purposes.In This Message1. Courage to Guide the Next GenerationParents, grandparents, and every believer have the opportunity to influence the next generation for Christ. Proverbs teaches us to recognize danger before it comes, train children in God's ways, provide loving and consistent discipline, and model a life of humility and obedience so future generations will faithfully follow the Lord. (Proverbs 22:3–6, 15; Proverbs 23:12–16; Proverbs 29:15)2. Conviction to Preserve Self-ControlGod's wisdom warns that anything controlling our minds or behavior eventually leads us away from Him. Solomon's warnings about alcohol remind believers to exercise self-control, avoid becoming a stumbling block to others, and live under the leadership of the Holy Spirit instead of being mastered by sinful desires. (Proverbs 20:1; Proverbs 23:29–35; 1 Corinthians 8:9–13)3. Courage to Get Back UpFaithfulness does not mean never failing. God's people sometimes stumble, but His grace enables them to rise again. Through biblical examples and Proverbs' encouragement, this message reminds believers to stand for what is right, trust God's forgiveness, and persevere with courage after setbacks. (Proverbs 24:8–16)4. Conviction to Live IntentionallyA neglected field becomes a powerful picture of a neglected life. Instead of drifting spiritually, believers are called to pursue diligence, reject complacency, and intentionally invest their time, gifts, and opportunities in what has lasting, eternal value. (Proverbs 24:30–34)TakeawayGod rarely changes the world through people who appear extraordinary. More often, He works through ordinary believers who faithfully trust His wisdom day after day. Ask God to give you the courage to stand firm, the conviction to follow His truth, and the faithfulness to influence those around you for Jesus Christ.Illustrations

• The tugboat that quietly guides massive ships illustrates how faithful Christians can have an influence far greater than their size or position.
• Church trailer safety procedures demonstrate the wisdom of recognizing danger before disaster strikes.
• The neglected field reminds us that spiritual decline usually happens gradually through small acts of neglect rather than one major decision.

Quotes"God's wisdom gives us the courage to stand firm and the conviction to faithfully follow Him.""The goal isn't punishment. The goal is discipleship.""Permissiveness is not love, and harshness is not love. Biblical parenting rejects both extremes."Search TopicsProverbs 22, Proverbs 23, Proverbs 24, Living with Courage and Conviction, Pastor Chris Teien, Christian courage, Christian conviction, biblical wisdom, Christian parenting, self-control, overcoming failure, intentional Christian living, Rockwell ChurchFull Episode & Transcript:
https://www.buzzsprout.com/2285086/episodes/1955226826.0726de Helping you apply God's Word and follow Jesus in everyday life. Learn more at ChrisTeien.com and Rockwell.church  Find episode transcripts at Well.faith

Are you trusting God more than yourself? Every day we make decisions that shape our lives, but are we relying on our own wisdom or seeking God's direction? Pastor Chris Teien continues the Summer in Proverbs series by teaching through Proverbs 16, showing how God calls us to surrender our plans, value His wisdom above worldly success, and faithfully follow His ways in every decision we make.God's wisdom calls believers to trust Him more than themselves in every decision they make. As we surrender our plans, value His wisdom above worldly success, and follow His ways each day, God faithfully directs our steps and accomplishes His purposes for His glory and our good.In This Message:1. SURRENDER Your Plans to GodPlanning is wise, but our plans should always be surrendered to the Lord. Through personal stories about financial decisions, caring for a dangerous tree, and everyday choices, Pastor Chris demonstrates the importance of seeking God's guidance in prayer, examining our motives, and trusting Him to direct our steps instead of relying on ourselves. (Proverbs 16:1–9; Proverbs 3:5–6; Proverbs 21:5; Nehemiah)2. VALUE God's Wisdom Above Worldly SuccessThe world measures success by wealth, possessions, and status, but God values wisdom, humility, and faithful obedience. Proverbs teaches that wisdom is worth more than gold, pride leads to destruction, and true success comes from pursuing God's purposes rather than worldly approval. (Proverbs 16:16–20; Daniel 4)3. FOLLOW God's Ways Every DayWalking in God's wisdom shapes our words, our decisions, our relationships, and our character. Even when life is uncertain or difficult, we can trust God's sovereign purposes, knowing that He is directing our steps and calling us to live with humility, integrity, and confidence in Him. (Proverbs 16:21–33; Romans 5:8; Genesis 50:20)Illustrations

• Making a financial decision without prayer after his wife was placed on bed rest during pregnancy.
• Choosing to ask a professional arborist for help instead of taking unnecessary risks with a damaged tree.
• A GPS rerouting around a closed road as an illustration of God's guidance when our plans unexpectedly change.
• Joseph's life showing how God works through suffering to accomplish His purposes.
• Praying with his family before deciding where to attend Bible college.
• Investing in a quality Bible as an example of valuing eternal wisdom over temporary pleasures.

Key Quotes

• "Are you trusting God more than yourself?"
• "Planning is good. The Bible is for planning."
• "God examines your motives."
• "How much better to get wisdom than gold."
• "Pride always brings us low, and humility lifts our eyes up to God."
• "God's wisdom calls us to trust Him more than ourselves in every decision we make."

Search TopicsProverbs, Proverbs 16, trusting God, God's wisdom, biblical wisdom, Christian decision making, God's will, surrender to God, following God, humility, pride, God's sovereignty, Christian living, faith, obedience, Jesus Christ, Romans 5:8, Joseph, Nehemiah, Daniel 4, Rockwell Church, Chris TeienFull Episode & Transcript: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2285086/episodes/1951641726m0719de Helping you apply God's Word and follow Jesus in everyday life. Learn more at ChrisTeien.com and Rockwell.church  Find episode transcripts at Well.faith

Healthy relationships do not happen by accident. Proverbs teaches that our attitudes, our integrity, and especially our words shape the strength of our relationships. This message explores how God's wisdom transforms the way we relate to others by rejecting destructive attitudes, cultivating love and trust, and speaking with wisdom.In This Message1. Wise People Reject Destructive AttitudesProverbs 6 identifies attitudes and actions the Lord hates, including pride, dishonesty, violence, deceit, and stirring up conflict. The message calls believers to examine their hearts, repent where needed, and pursue humility, honesty, and peace in their relationships. (Proverbs 6:16-19; James 4:6; Luke 6:45; Psalm 133:1; Ephesians 4:3)2. Wise People Cultivate Love and TrustHealthy relationships require intentional effort. Drawing from Proverbs 10 and 11, this message highlights the importance of integrity, honesty, forgiveness, and Christlike love that strengthens trust and promotes unity within families, friendships, and the church. (Proverbs 10:10-22; Proverbs 11:1-13; 1 Peter 4:8; Ephesians 4:32; John 13:34-35)3. Wise People Choose Words WiselyOur words have the power to wound or to heal. Proverbs 12 reminds us to speak carefully, encourage others, receive correction with humility, and use our speech to bring life instead of harm. The message also explains Proverbs 11:30, showing that the wise influence people toward life through godly character and faithful living. (Proverbs 12:13-25; Proverbs 11:30)Main IdeaGod-honoring relationships are built through wisdom that transforms our attitudes, develops love and trust, and guides our speech. As Christ shapes our hearts, our relationships increasingly reflect His character.ScripturePrimary passages include Proverbs 6:16-19, Proverbs 10:10-22, Proverbs 11:1-13, Proverbs 11:30, and Proverbs 12:13-25, with supporting references from James 4:6, Luke 6:45, Psalm 133:1, Ephesians 4:3, Ephesians 4:32, John 13:34-35, and 1 Peter 4:8.Illustrations

• A delivery driver lost a major business contract because of an uncontrolled outburst, demonstrating how destructive attitudes damage relationships.
• A humorous "flux capacitor" conversation with two appliance salesmen illustrated the value of honesty and genuine knowledge.
• Gardening provided a picture of intentionally cultivating healthy relationships over time.

Key Quotes

• "Wise people reject destructive attitudes."
• "Wise people cultivate love and trust."
• "Wise people choose words wisely."

Search TopicsGod-honoring relationships, Proverbs 6, Proverbs 10, Proverbs 11, Proverbs 12, Christian relationships, biblical wisdom, Christian communication, guarding your words, biblical integrityFull Episode & Transcript: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2285086/episodes/19483369

26.0712de Helping you apply God's Word and follow Jesus in everyday life. Learn more at ChrisTeien.com and Rockwell.church  Find episode transcripts at Well.faith

Freedom is one of the most valued ideas in our culture, but Scripture teaches that true freedom is more than simply doing whatever we want. Pastor Chris Teien explores Proverbs 1 through 5 to show that God's wisdom leads to a life marked by stability, integrity, and lasting joy. Discover why following God's ways brings the freedom every person is searching for.In This Message 1. Freedom Begins with Reverence for God True freedom starts with a right view of God. Reverence for the Lord leads us to trust Him rather than our own understanding, shaping every area of life with wisdom instead of self-reliance. (Proverbs 3:5-8; Psalm 111:10) 2. Freedom Walks the Path of Wisdom God's wisdom provides practical direction for everyday life. By listening to His instruction and remaining committed to His truth, believers find stability, avoid many unnecessary pitfalls, and learn to navigate life's challenges with discernment. (Proverbs 4:10-13; Psalm 119:105; John 8:31-32) 3. Freedom Refuses the Chains of Sin Sin promises satisfaction but ultimately brings bondage. Proverbs warns against moral compromise and reminds us that God sees every path we take, calling His people to pursue purity, faithfulness, and wise choices. (Proverbs 5:3-23)4. Freedom Lives with Integrity Living with integrity means consistently walking in God's wisdom and trusting His care. Those who pursue uprightness can live with confidence, knowing the Lord guards their path and calls them to use their freedom to serve Him faithfully. (Proverbs 2:7-9; Proverbs 3:21-26; Galatians 5:13)True freedom is found not in independence from God but in joyful obedience to Him. Proverbs shows that a life of reverence, wisdom, purity, and integrity leads to the secure and God-honoring freedom He desires for His people. Helping you apply God's Word and follow Jesus in everyday life. Learn more at ChrisTeien.com and Rockwell.church  Find episode transcripts at Well.faith

Planning for the future is wise, but faithful leadership and service begin with preparation that honors God. Pastor Chris Teien explores how the book of Proverbs teaches believers to prepare wisely, make godly decisions, and trust the Lord to establish their steps. Discover how biblical wisdom can equip you to lead and serve faithfully wherever God calls you. In This Message1. Plan Your RouteWise preparation begins by establishing the right priorities before pursuing the next opportunity. This message explores how Proverbs encourages thoughtful planning, seeking wise counsel, counting the cost, and trusting God to direct each step, using examples from Joseph and Jesus' teaching on careful preparation. (Proverbs 24:27; Proverbs 6:6-8; Proverbs 15:22; Proverbs 16:9; Genesis 41:33-36; Luke 14:28-30)2. Prepare for the JourneyPreparation means thinking carefully before moving forward rather than reacting impulsively. Through Proverbs, the examples of Noah and the wise builder, this section shows the importance of recognizing danger, making thoughtful decisions, and obeying God's instructions before challenges arise. (Proverbs 14:15; Proverbs 22:3; Genesis 6:13-22; Matthew 7:24-27)3. Carry What You NeedEvery believer carries something into life's journey, and Scripture calls us to carry what strengthens rather than what weighs us down. This message highlights the importance of integrity, confession, forgiveness, and perseverance while looking to the examples of Daniel's faithfulness and the call to lay aside sin as we follow Christ. (Proverbs 10:9; Proverbs 10:12; Proverbs 28:13; Daniel 1:8; Hebrews 12:1-2)4. Stay ReadyWise leaders remain alert, self-controlled, and prepared for whatever lies ahead. Proverbs and the New Testament warn against anything that clouds judgment while encouraging believers to live under the control of the Holy Spirit with spiritual vigilance. (Proverbs 20:1; Proverbs 31:4-5; Ephesians 5:18; 1 Peter 5:8)Preparing wisely is not about controlling the future but about faithfully following God's wisdom today. As we trust His direction and apply His Word, He equips us to walk confidently wherever He leads. Helping you apply God's Word and follow Jesus in everyday life. Learn more at ChrisTeien.com and Rockwell.church  Find episode transcripts at Well.faith

What will your family remember about you? Long after accomplishments, possessions, and achievements fade, the influence of your character, faith, and example will remain. In this message from Proverbs 4, Pastor Chris Teien explores how godly leaders shape future generations by living faithfully, intentionally teaching God's truth, and building a lasting legacy of faith.Link: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2285086/episodes/19380307Key Points:1. LEAD Through Your Example
 Proverbs 20:7 Children and those we influence learn more from what they observe than from what they are told. A life marked by integrity, faithfulness, and a sincere pursuit of God leaves a lasting impact on future generations.2. TEACH God's Truth Intentionally
 Deuteronomy 6:6-9,  Ephesians 6:4,  Proverbs 22:6 Faith does not pass automatically from one generation to the next. God calls parents and spiritual leaders to intentionally teach His Word through daily conversations, consistent instruction, and personal example. 3. BUILD a Legacy of Faith
 Proverbs 4:1-9 Wise leaders invest in future generations by passing on God's wisdom. The greatest inheritance we can leave is not financial wealth but a faith that points others toward Christ and continues long after we are gone.Personal Stories from Pastor Chris:

•  Reflections on becoming a grandfather and influencing younger generations. 
•  Memories of family members whose example left a lasting impression. 
•  Parenting lessons learned through raising children. 
•  Practical examples of investing in others beyond one's immediate family. 

Notable Quotes:

•  "You are somebody that can lead somebody." 
•  "Long before people listen to our words, they observe our lives." 
•  "We cannot give away what we do not possess." 
•  "Your influence today shapes future generations." 

Actionable Takeaways:

•  Examine the example your daily life is setting. 
•  Look for opportunities to intentionally discuss God's truth with others. 
•  Invest time in someone younger in the faith. 
•  Consider what legacy your current choices are building. 

Scripture References:

•  Proverbs 20:7 
•  Deuteronomy 6:6-9 
•  Ephesians 6:4 
•  Proverbs 22:6 
•  Proverbs 4:1-9 
•  Joshua 24:15 
•  Genesis 6:9 

Keywords:Christian family, biblical parenting, spiritual leadership, Proverbs, discipleship, faith legacy, Christian influence, family ministry, wisdom, Christian livingChallenge:Ask yourself: If your family gathered to describe your life years from now, what would they remember most? Choose one practical step this week that will help leave a legacy of faith for future generations.26.0621de Helping you trust God's Word and follow Jesus in everyday life. Learn more at ChrisTeien.com and Rockwell.church

Who is shaping your life? Every day we are influenced by family, friends, coworkers, social media, entertainment, and countless other voices competing for our attention. In this message from Proverbs 1 and Proverbs 4, Pastor Chris Teien explores how wise influences help us grow in faith while harmful influences can quietly lead us away from God's best. Discover how Scripture calls believers to listen to godly voices, avoid destructive paths, and become positive influences in the lives of others. Link: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2285086/episodes/19356952Key Points:1. Listen to Wise Voices (Proverbs 1:8-9; Proverbs 12:15; Proverbs 13:20)
 Wise people remain teachable and seek counsel from God, His Word, and faithful believers who can help guide them in the right direction.2. Learn from Faithful Examples (Romans 15:4)
 God has given us biblical examples and the testimonies of faithful Christians throughout history to encourage us, instruct us, and strengthen our faith.3. Avoid Harmful Influences (Proverbs 1:10-19; 1 Corinthians 15:33)
 Sin often presents itself as acceptance, success, opportunity, or belonging. Followers of Christ must be careful about the influences they allow into their lives.4. Choose the Right Path (Proverbs 4:14-27)
 The path of righteousness grows brighter with time, while the path of wickedness leads to darkness and destruction. Our choices reveal which path we are following.Personal Stories from Pastor Chris:

• Pastor Chris shared lessons from reading Christian biographies and the lives of missionaries and preachers who demonstrated both faithfulness and human weakness.
• He reflected on how older generations trusted God through difficult seasons and passed on wisdom that continues to encourage believers today.
• He also used practical illustrations from everyday life, including observations about how dogs learn behaviors from one another, to show the power of influence.

Notable Quotes:

• "Everybody that's a leader has been influenced by somebody."
• "Walk with the wise and become wise."
• "Sin always promises more than it delivers."
• "Who are you learning from, and who are you teaching?"

Actionable Takeaways:

• Evaluate the voices influencing your values, decisions, and priorities.
• Spend more time listening to God's Word and godly counsel.
• Avoid influences that encourage compromise or disobedience.
• Become a positive influence by sharing your faith, wisdom, and experiences with others.

Scripture References:Proverbs 1:8-19; Proverbs 4:14-27; Romans 15:4; Proverbs 12:15; Proverbs 13:20; 1 Corinthians 15:33.Keywords:Proverbs, wisdom, influence, Christian leadership, discipleship, spiritual growth, godly counsel, Christian living, biblical wisdom, faith.Challenge:Evaluate the influences in your life. Identify one godly voice you need to listen to more closely and one harmful influence you need to limit or remove. Ask God to help you walk in wisdom and become a positive influence in the life of someone else.26.0614de 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