“3 Easy Steps to Lose Weight.”

“6 Secrets to a Happy Marriage.”

“12 Steps to Financial Freedom.”

We’re drawn to whatever promises quick results with minimal discomfort. But when it comes to the Kingdom of God—especially when it comes to seeing with spiritual eyes—it doesn’t work that way. There are no shortcuts. No life hacks. Because spiritual sight doesn’t come through information—it comes through transformation.

It’s born in the presence of God. It grows through abiding. And it matures in those who linger with Him when others move on.

Today, in Part III of Do You Want the Red Pill or the Blue Pill, Steve shares his personal journey into this kind of sight—not as a formula, but as a relationship. A life lived close to God, where clarity comes not through steps, but through staying.

But let me say this—What you’ll hear today is more than reflection.

It’s preparation. Because in Part IV, we’ll begin to explore why this kind of vision is so urgently needed. Why Jesus warned us about the Days of Noah...

and why only those who truly abide will recognize what’s happening in our time.

But for now, let’s begin where all true sight begins:

In His presence.

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At that moment Jesus cried out with a loud voice My God, My God, why have you forsaken me.”

The gospel of Luke records Jesus crying out: Father, into you hands I commit my spirit. After he said this he breathed his last.

Off in the distance the shofar was heard being blown.

SHOFAR SOUND - Begin EARTHQUAKE - Lightening

At that moment the curtain of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom. The earth shook, the rocks split 52 and the tombs broke open.

Ancient historians make note of an earthquake occurring…to this day NOAA historical earthquake data records an earthquake occurring in 33 AD about the time of the crucifixion.

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"Crucifixion of Jesus" Davis

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To this day, few understand that Palm Sunday was a supernaturally choreographed event where each step was planned hundreds, if not thousands, of years earlier. There was nothing about that day that was a coincidence. And for many, there will be no excuse that they did not know what was happening.

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Today in Part II of "Do You Want the Red Pill or the Blue Pill?" we're going deeper. We’re going to explore why this transformation of sight is so crucial—and what it really means to live with a supernatural perspective.

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He teaches on New Testament discipleship nationally and globally. He also leads renewals of biblical discipleship throughout the United States, Europe, and Africa. Ed, facilitates Discovery Bible Studies, better known as DBS, with groups and new disciples. He leads and attends disciple making movements around the world.

Ed and his wife Debbie travel the world serving, teaching, and speaking to all those who have ears to hear Jesus call to go out and make disciples of all the nations in the manner that Jesus taught. Ed is a delight to be around because his native language is Jesus, yet his gentle and humble spirit leaves you wanting more time with him. Ed, however, pulls no punches when he tells the truth about what's going on in the world and the American church that is on life support. 

Perhaps one of the most powerful podcast we have done regarding what Jesus commanded His followers to do verses what's really happening. You don't want to miss this episode.

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He teaches on New Testament discipleship nationally and globally. He also leads renewals of biblical discipleship throughout the U. S., Europe, and Africa. He facilitates Discovery Bible Studies, better known as DBS, with groups and new disciples. He leads and attends disciple making movements around the world.

Ed and his wife Debbie travel the world serving, teaching, and speaking to all those who have ears to hear Jesus call to go out and make disciples of all the nations in the manner that Jesus taught in Matthew 9. Ed is a delight to be around because his native language is Jesus, yet his gentle and humble spirit leaves you wanting more time with him.

Ed, however, pulls no punches when he tells the truth about what's going on in the world and the American church that is on life support. Stay tuned as we prepare to release True Discipleship, The Real Story.

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Note: Soundtrack: Epic Adventure Cinematic | Epic Shield by Alex-Productions |

Sources: Barna Group, First Liberty, Arizona Christian University

Got Questions, Christian Heritage, Teachings of Jack Hibbs, Cavalry Chapel, Chino Hills.

Rules of Civility George Washington, John Adams, Samuel Adams, Benjamin Rush, Ben Franklin, John Hancock, Thomas Jefferson, Charles Carroll of Carrollton

Other misc. sources.

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True Discipleship: The Real Story.

Ed Gross our guest is the writer of several books including The Harvest Prayer of Jesus, Are You a Christian or a Disciple, and Disciple the Nations.

Ed was ordained in 1978 and received his doctorate at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School in 1988.

He teaches on New Testament Discipleship nationally and globally. He also leads Renewals of Biblical Discipleship (RBDs) throughout USA, Europe and Africa.

Ed also facilitates Discovery Bible Studies (DBS) groups with new disciples and leads and attends Disciple Making Movement (DMM) around the world. 

 Ed and his wife Debby travel the world serving, teaching and speaking to all those who have ears to hear Jesus’s call to go out and make disciples of the nations in the manner that Jesus instructed them.

Ed is a delight to be around because his native language is Jesus yet, his gentle and humble spirit leaves you wanting more time with him. Ed however, pulls no punches when he tells the truth about what’s going on in the world and the “American Church that he describes as "on life support.”

Stay tuned as we prepare to release True Discipleship/The Real Story

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Matt is the recipient of the Purple Heart, and in today's podcast, takes us into the Triangle of Death, and recounts the difficult circumstances that he and his fellow soldiers faced. Just as important, he takes us beyond the battlefield and speaks to the ongoing war that a soldier continues to fight with PTSD when he returns home..

Matt's story is a soldier's story. and while he spared us of the graphic horrors that he encountered, it's important that we experience some of their pain so that we can begin to understand what they have faced. The last thing these brave men want from us is our sympathy, but they deserve our thanks and respect. Matt's story is a story that can inspire others who are struggling with PTSD from traumatic encounters that there is hope and healing through organizations like Warrior Path. .Most every soldier placed in a life and death situation reaches out to God in what is known as a "Fox Hole" prayer. We ask Matt to discuss the role of faith and the elephant in the room for everyone alive...is there a God and how do we respond to His call on our lives.

It's was honor to have recorded and produced Matt's story

Regarding the Outro Music: The song "Face of Darkness" was written and performed by James House at the Warrior Path conference that Matt attended. It was written specifically for Matt's Team based on their own traumatic struggles.

Copyright, Restless the Podcast, 2024. All rights reserved. No part of this podcast may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means without prior written permission.

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Many of us know a veteran or have a family member that has served our country, but very few of us, have experienced what they have. Matt's story is a soldier's story, and while he spared us of the graphic horrors that he encountered, it's important that we experience some of their pain so that we can begin to understand what they go through.

The last thing these brave men want from us is our sympathy. What they deserve is our thanks and respect. Matt Hursey, like many other soldiers, are working hard to take this difficult part of their lives and turn it into a positive. We look forward to releasing the full episode of Beyond the Battlefield, A Soldier's Continuing War, so please tune in.

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He has made everything beautiful in its time.

Also, he has put eternity into man's heart, yet so that he cannot find out what God has done from the beginning to the end.

Ecclesiastes 3:11

God has "Set Eternity in the Hearts of Man". Let it serve as a hope and a warning. A hope in that we were made for more than the temporal or tangible and warning in that no man will be able to say on "that day" that we did not know that there is only one God and in Christ we have been given the gift of salvation for all those who receive it. What are you waiting for?

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The city is at capacity, as every one is making preparations for Passover that traditionally begins just before sunset this evening at 5:59 PM in Jerusalem, 10:59 AM EST.

Roman officials are concerned any news of trouble will make its way back to Rome. They are watching intently.

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The gospels of Matthew, Mark and Luke report Jesus is staying outside of the city at Bethany and also the Mt. of Olives. Bethany is a small village on the eastern slope of the Mt. of Olives. Bethany is mentioned frequently in the New Testament. It was the home of Mary and Martha and their brother Lazarus. The Mt. Of Olives is part of a mountain ridge that extends over two miles on the eastern side of the Old City of Jerusalem and separates it from the Judaean desert. Its Name means Oil Press.

Further down the slope of the Mt. Of Olives is the Garden of Gethsemane.

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I have no idea what 2024 will look like but we must awaken to the reality that we are not the same United States of America of years past. The boxes are not only being checked but have been checked of the list of events that Jesus declared would occur.  For some this will be a hard statement while others already know it….as believers we are not called to be loyal patriots of the United States of America but to be citizens of the Kingdom of God. The reality is that our government is in a state of decline and is engaged in the corruption of the soul and the modern church has preached a gospel foreign to the word and work of God.  Therefore, we mustn’t allow spiritual amnesia induced by the glittering lies of this world to forget that our hope lies in Christ alone and none other….it always has.  Hear the words of the writer of Lamentations Jeremiah…

"Everything I had hoped for from the Lord is lost!" The thought of my suffering and homelessness is bitter beyond words. I will never forget this awful time. . . . Yet I still dare to hope. - Lamentations 3:18-21

Jeremiah was broken hearted as he looked over the ruins of Jerusalem. He had tried to warn his people of what was coming, but they wouldn’t listen. What he saw before him screamed of hopelessness.   So what did he , what God calls us always to do to place our Hope and trust in the Lord. To rewire his thinking by taking every thought captive to displace hopelessness with the eternal rather than the mortal and the physical to the supernatural. Hear Jeremiahs words:  

The faithful love of the Lord never ends!

His mercies never cease.

Great is his faithfulness;

his mercies begin afresh each morning.

I say to myself, "The Lord is my inheritance; therefore, I will hope in him!"

Lamentations 3:22-24

If what happened to Jeremiah was in our near future how would you choose to live. Have you clinged to the things of this world so the so tightly that it would be difficult for you to face the reality. Its time to live as a citizen of heaven and prepare for the eternal. By doing so we can live as hopeful people freed up to serve the widow, orphan, hungry and homeless. If you are growing fearful then hear what the Lord has for you…written by the man who thought he lost everything “'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the Lord, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future. '” — Jeremiah 29:11.

If you hear the call of the Lord Jesus on your life then receive and let Him be Lord of your life…for has awaiting for you a hope and a future.

This is Steve and I urge you to trust in the Lord and Press On!

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     For the God who sent His celestial message service to these lowly shepherds is the God who is nearest to the broken hearted whose spirits are crushed Psalm 34:18 The Lord is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth. He fulfills the desires of those who fear him; he hears their cry and saves them. The Lord watches over all who love him…

Joseph, Moses Miriam, Esther, David, Solomon, Ruth, the tax collector, the fishermen, the tekton and teenage girl who was troubled because of her lowliness that God would choose her to bare the Christ child. Her response “I am the Lord’s servant,” “May your word to me be fulfilled.” Then the angel left her.

To a young missionary by the name of Jim Elliot who was slain in an Ecuadorian jungle in 1956, while attempting to make contact with the indigenous tribe with the word of God…

It is these people that God has used is using and will use to accomplish His work and who like the shepherds said Let’s Go they saw the miracles.

We came in this world with no physical things except our flesh and we will leave it with less than that… hear the words that Jim Elliott wrote just before he left this world “He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain what he cannot lose.”  For those who hear the call on their lives to go their decision will gain them the sight the miracle and the eternal…his name is Jesus. Just give me Jesus.

Song: Give Me Jesus: The Late Fernando Ortega (Thank you for this beautiful piece of Music)

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Yet as you see nation rise up against nation first look inwards and quietly listen as the savior calls upon your life to return to Him, the one whom paid our debt on the cross and invites you be renewed and made alive. The worlds call to end racism, climate change or whatever social deflection of the real problem it chooses is like asking for a respirator to be put on a corpse it may momentarily look alive but it is not. Choose Christ

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This too is Paul’s conclusion to the chowder-heads in Glatia….because of faith  alone in Christ you are all therefore children of God, for all of you who were baptized into Christ have been clothed with Christ.

Ever thought about what happens the second after that last breath leaves your body? Don’t be a dimwitted chowder head hypnotized by a clueless world…today without fanfare turn your head and your heart towards Jesus and say these words…Jesus you are Lord… Save Me. The days of this world and our lives grow short…what are you waiting for?

This is Steve and until we meet again I urge you to Press On

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 Paul’s words in Galatians 2 are a clarion call to all desiring to follow Christ that true followers must crucify their old selves with Christ. Including outside influences, pride, deception, and worldly knowledge. A life with Christ must be a total surrendering of a former life to the call of a totally new one that is marked with the freedom to live as intended in Christ rather than a slave to an unwinnable whac-mole game of rules and cultural trends taught by men and women that is void of godly intimacy.

This is Steve and until we meet again, I urge you to Press On by responding to the call of Christ in your life to a real and intimate relationship with the savior…what are you waiting for?  

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 This grace moves our hearts into true thanksgiving, it makes possible the total and complete fulfilment of our souls by restoring that eternal longing to be next to our savior.   When we walk by the Spirit by acknowledging our true identities, Thanksgiving Day, and every day, we do not need to gratify the flesh, because our spirits have tasted the Bread of Life and the Living Water.

This is Steve and until we meet again, I urge you to Press On by asking the Savior to quench your eternal longing. 

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Dr. Bruce Allsop, board certified in Family Medicine licensed in Tennessee

More importantly he is a servant of the Most High God, YHWH, pursuing an intimate walk with Jesus, set free from the bondage of sin, forgiven because of God's amazing grace, by HIm and for Him and through, Him, Jesus the Messiah.

Bruce is a husband to a wonderful wife and father to awesome adult children--a daughter and a son and daughter-in-law.

Medical Director of Vine International, a medically based mission to Guatemala. We serve the under resourced and forgotten people of Mayan descent by shipping medicine, medical supplies and medical equipment to Guatemala City which then is distributed at no cost to clinics, hospitals to serve Jesus by serving the least of these. Please check out vineinternational.org

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Today in the world that we live, the smell of sin is becoming more pungent as man celebrates that which is wrong and discards that which is right. For He has exchanged the truth about God for a lie. He declares with Pride that which God has called rotting flesh but to those who know they are rotting away Christ’s words ring out I ‘am willing!

Choose this day to come to the only one who can cleanse you of the rot of sin and make you a pleasing aroma to God….for the day of the Lord is near.

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Proverbs 14:12 There is a way that seems right to a man, but in the end, it leads to destruction.”

Since the fall in the Garden of Eden, man’s own desires “to be like god” has throughout history led to chaos. Pride, hatred, lust for power and the wickedness of the heart lead to trouble for the individual and the whole of society. Current and ancient history is a continuous story of mankind denying his creator and then defying his creator, all ending in a repeating cycle of chaos and disorder that leads to destruction.

Psalm 139:23-24 suggests we surrender our lives to God. Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me and lead me in the way everlasting.

Today we face a world that is growing hostile to God. For according to Romans 8 They exchanged the truth about God for a lie Although they claimed to be wise, they became fools Therefore God gave them over in the sinful desires of their hearts.

The days of this earth and our lives on it grow short I therefore urge to “come to your senses” and return home to the Lord who is waiting for you no matter how far you have distanced yourself from Him…what possibly are you waiting for?

This Steve and until we meet again I urge you to consider these things and Press On.

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That frightening night when these men were rowing and getting nowhere Jesus came walking out to them…he walked on top of the ragging waves. This is a clear image that communicates a very clear message…he has authority over not just the seas but over those who rage against Him.

He has Power over a sea of a restless raging humanity, that will one day bow before Him,  AS those who have called on Him as their savior…… or those who face a Christ less eternity.

Here is the hope, that a raging world cannot offer, God the Creator can calm the raging waves of the ocean, so God our Savior can speak peace to the nations and calm each troubled soul.

"Thou rulest the raging of the sea: when the waves thereof arise, thou stillest them." (Psalm 89:9)

Scripture tells us that when Jesus entered the boat they immediately reached the otherside

Are you ready to ask Jesus to calm your restless heart and restore order that brings you a sense of meaning, value, and purpose. Don’t wait for time is short.

This is Steve and until we meet again I beg you to Press On!

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Hi, this is Steve and welcome back to another Episode of the New Press On. This called …and God Made Man

 Recent statistics show that 70% of all suicides in this country are men. A disproportionate number of them are 55 years and older. When we look at the reasons or causes, we find that hopelessness, loneliness, and worthlessness are but a few of the reasons given. Yet the most concerning reason of all is that they have succumb to a lie generated from a society that has derogated men and even promoted their demise.

 In fact, if history serves as a testimony of what has already occurred, we are faced with a collapse of society because of the dismantling of a God ordained patriarchal order.

The class of older men that once served as sages in the lives of younger men, are fading into nonexistence at the behest of those whose ideology is like a cancer. Traditionally, men who are in their sunset years, guided and helped younger generations navigate life, and leaving them immutable truths, are now in trouble.

   It’s been observed that a large of these men are engaged in what is called, long term suicide. They've given up, they simply wait to die. The reasons are many but in short, they no longer feel they have a purpose or have long since forgotten what that purpose is. They have become disconnected from other men, or at least from the ones who still have the fire of God in their bellies, the ones who ask life giving questions, like are you ok and do you remember who you are? The men whose worn eyes still know the way.

  There is but one hope, men start to throw off their case of cosmic amnesia and begin to remember who they are by returning to the God who formed them from the dirt of the earth.

It's time for men to return to their patriarchal position as the first created, by first acknowledging their failure and dereliction to walk with the God who came looking for them in the garden. They must also understand that…

Patriarchal rulership as created by God works in giving order to all things, except when it is outside of God commands and then, like everything else it becomes an axis of evil.

    A society that works outside of this natural order is destined to fail because the next generation of male leaders, good husbands, great dads, and defenders of truth become societies walking courage-less lemmings.

   Sadly, woke churches, who have fashioned themselves and their ideology after the world, has done little more than neutered the very purpose men were created. They do this by dismantling healthy Men’s groups within the church in exchange for the more fashionable community groups. Men need healthy male relationships whom they trust and exchange ideas with. A place where they need not face their struggles alone, a face that helps them remember who they are and whose they are.

Today, our society is collapsing in front of our very eyes, it is no accident, it is intentional. By congruently deconstructing and then demonizing older men younger generations are easily targeted. In fact young men have always been the target of despots from throwing new born males into the Nile or like Herod ordering them to be slaughtered because of the fear of a real leader ending their godless reign.

It begins by reaching out to the old soldiers and reminding them that if you are not dead you are not done. 

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   Today professionals like Greg Becker and others who work with people are seeing an explosion of people suffering with anxiety, fear and depression. Is this how life is suppose to be...NO! Is there hope...YES! Listen in as Steve, Luke, Hannah, and Ryan speak with Greg about the principles for life that God has provided for us.

   Greg speaks compassionately and professionally about the topic of anxiety, fear, and depression. He pulls back the curtain of our hearts and minds and offers a biblically sound pathway to freedom from this debilitating illness. If you or a loved one is suffering you don't want to miss this episode.

  Greg Becker is a biblically-based and clinically trained counselor with a warm, compassionate, and interactive style. He is experienced in counseling men and women as individuals or as couples. Greg approaches counseling through the lens of Scripture, in conjunction with current psychological standards and research. He currently serves as Director of Congregational Care & Counseling at his local church and internationally. Greg sees clients facing family of origin issues, anxiety, depression, loss & grief, compulsive behaviors, relational issues, career challenges, parenting, and shame.

   He also provides pre-engagement and premarital counseling. He is certified SYMBIS facilitator, which stands for Saving Your Marriage Before It Starts.

Greg’s approach incorporates aspects of Attachment Theory, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and Interpersonal Neurobiology (IPNB).

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And when the box starts to get full, the same way that when you go into work and you see an inbox that's full, it's like, oh crap, I'm so far behind. I got so much to do. And, you know, your plate is full. So by keeping those short accounts, helps you to keep anxiety at bay." -Greg Becker

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Greg Becker is a biblically-based and clinically trained counselor with a warm, compassionate, and interactive style. He is experienced in counseling men and women as individuals or as couples. Greg approaches counseling through the lens of Scripture, in conjunction with current psychological standards and research. He currently serves as Director of Congregational Care & Counseling at his local church and internationally. Greg sees clients facing family of origin issues, anxiety, depression, loss & grief, compulsive behaviors, relational issues, career challenges, parenting, and shame.

   He also provides pre-engagement and premarital counseling. He is certified SYMBIS facilitator, which stands for Saving Your Marriage Before It Starts.

Greg’s approach incorporates aspects of Attachment Theory, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and Interpersonal Neurobiology (IPNB).

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   Today professionals like Greg Becker and others who work with people are seeing an explosion of people suffering with anxiety, fear and depression. Is this how life is suppose to be...NO! Is there hope...YES! Listen in as Steve, Luke, Hannah, and Ryan speak with Greg about the principles for life that God has provided for us.

   Greg speaks compassionately and professionally about the topic of anxiety, fear, and depression. He pulls back the curtain of our hearts and minds and offers a biblically sound pathway to freedom from this debilitating illness. If you or a loved one is suffering you don't want to miss this episode.

Coming Soon the Full Podcast

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What we know is that Jesus purposely passed over the elite, aristocratic, religious professionals and influential men of society and chose men from the dregs of society. That’s how God has always worked throughout the course of history. He exalts the humble and lays low those who are proud.

Yet as I read this story found in Mathew 10 there are a few things that strike me.

1.     Jesus gives these uneducated and unrefined commoners authority…the authority of God

Jesus called his twelve disciples to him and gave them authority to drive out impure spirits and to heal every disease and sickness.

2.     He sends them out with only the clothes on their back.

“Do not get any gold or silver or copper to take with you in your belts— 10 no bag for the journey or extra shirt or sandals or a staff,

The orders were clear, don’t go alone, You’ve been delegated incredible authority and take nothing with you but the clothes on your back…you will depend fully on the Lord. Jesus sends out the commonest of the common, filth among people, classified as the lowest of the low.

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“Come,” he said.

There are many calls upon our lives but there is only one that can speak to the restlessness of our hearts and that is found in the voice of the Lord Jesus beckoning to come.

 In a world that has clearly lost its way , only one voice has power over the raging storms of humanity…it’s time by faith step out of your sinking boat, it’s  time to come home. There is much, much more to this story but until we meet again, this is Steve and I beckon you to Press On!

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This is Steve and Welcome back to another segment of Press On. This is called "In Me".

Philippians 4:7

And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

If you went out shopping for peace where would you go? Where do most people go? The world right? Internet relationships, expensive toys, politically correct sports, Hollywood violence, dysfunctional social media, corruption in politics and world of lock downs and war.  Is that where you shop?

We often define peace as the cessation of war or turmoil. As discussed earlier this is not the kind of peace Paul is talking about. However, it could be...one question that you should ask yourself, that effects your state of peace, is “who who you are at war with.” Hear the words of Jesus found in John 16:33

“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”

The key words here are “in me” you will have peace. 

“In me you will have peace, in this world you will have trouble.” 

Jesus is making a clear distinction between where you will find real peace and where you will not. In Christ we find real peace, in the world you find trouble. 

Here is an obvious question so why do we keep looking for real peace in a world where all you will find is trouble?

Secondly, are you at war with God? 

Jesus and Paul speak of a supernatural peace that results when we are no longer at war with God. 

  Perhaps for you the beginning of a lasting peace “that state of inner repose and quietness, even (especially) in adverse circumstances” starts when you face God and begin a long over do conversation. 

There is much more to this story but for today : Understand that internal peace comes not from the world but from the restoration of your relationship with your creator. 

In him there is eternal peace.

What are you waiting for?

Press on, Steve

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The apostle Paul writes in Philippians 4:7:

And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

 Here is a question...what is peace? No really what is peace? 

Quite often as we read the Bible we assume we know what certain words mean.

Like peace. At the time when Paul wrote this letter, 61-62 AD it was believed he was in bondage. In fact the next 10 years would be hell on earth for followers of Christ.

64 AD: The the great fire of Rome began persecution of Christians by Nero…thousands of Christians… accused of the fire, according to Tacitus “were burned alive to light the streets of Rome.

66 AD: 110,000 Jews were massacred.

70 AD: Jerusalem is destroyed and 600,000 Jews are killed and 10,000 taken into slavery.

We often define peace as the absence of turmoil...is this the peace Paul was talking about? No!

Alexander Maclaren writes that this "PEACE comes not from the absence of trouble, but from the presence of” Christ.

Biblical peace is that state of inner repose and quietness, even (especially) in adverse circumstances, which indicates that this peace is not natural but must be a supernatural work of the Holy Spirit, a truth that Paul affirms writing that “the fruit of the Spirit is…PEACE” Galatians 5:22.

There is much more to this story but for today:

 Start the process of exchanging your worries for a supernatural peace by regularly surrendering them to the Lord.

Stop and take a look around you and look at what’s happening in personal lives broken by a false peace, turn on the news if you can stomach it, look at the state of the world, try and find someone in government, Hollywood or social media is that the kind of peace you long for....nope!

At the very core of each of us is this unquenchable longing for peace, a real peace the kind was meant to course through souls souls like a spiritual blood.

Is that what you are Restless For? 

This is Steve an until we meet again “Press On.”

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Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.

Ever heard the expression have an “attitude of gratitude.” Sounds cute doesn’t it? I would wager there’s more going on here than cute. 

Paul introduces a third word in Philippians 4:6...with “thanksgiving.”

Why this word? Did you ever consider the psychological ramifications of worry? It’s adverse impacts on the body and mind are well documented. Thanksgiving is an attitude of the heart and Paul is instructing his readers to re-learn the appropriate way to handle life’s troubles. 

Here’s what we know about developing an attitude of thanksgiving.

Gratitude/thanksgiving improves psychological health. It reduces a multitude of toxic emotions, from envy, resentment to frustration and regret. Robert Emmons, a leading gratitude researcher, has conducted multiple studies on the link between gratitude and well-being. His research confirms that gratitude effectively increases happiness and reduces depression. Gratitude enhances empathy and reduces aggression. Grateful and thankful people are more likely to behave in a prosocial manner, even when others behave less kindly, according to a 2012 study by the University of Kentucky.

Ask yourself how do you spend your day and what do you put in front of yourself. Things like cable news, crime shows, negative talk shows things that regularly fill your heart and mind with things that rob you of life.

Hear the word from the writers of Proverbs 12:25: Anxiety weighs down the heart, but a kind word cheers it up.

There is much more to this story but for today think about this: Start working on a behavior change that has lasting (healthy)physical and emotional benefits.

Take a small step by being thankful. Look at the blessings you have received and surround yourself with people and things that are life giving and not taking.

This is Steve and I’m thankful for you and until we meet again Press On.

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Remember what Jesus said in Matthew 6:34 

“Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself.

 There is no doubt about it the Bible addresses worry and anxiousness because its a real issue and is see as detrimental to how God made us.

And what Paul said in:

Philippians 4:6-7 (NASB)

Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.

 Paul, is not a JV player...his choice of words are intentional.

So why the words petition and requests...aren’t they the same? Not in this context. Before I retired I worked for government doing regulatory compliance. From time to time we would petition the court for a decision regarding a particular enforcement action. We did it because the law required us but also because we knew the court would indeed make a decision.

 Additionally, the Greek word used by Paul, for request implies two things.

Definite and specific things.

The authority of whom you are asking.

  Years back I went to see a counselor regarding some traumatic issues that I and my family had experienced. The counselor asked me to tell her the story...I did. She then asked me to tell it again and be as detailed as possible. 

I asked why....she said details helps her better understand how to help me and secondly it’s a part of my own healing. 

There is much more to this story but for today: Understand that Paul wants us to relearn how we are to deal with worry. 

When you approach God by facing Him, ask expecting a decision, be specific in your requests. Of course He knows what’s on your heart but you need to speak it...because words have power.

Finally, understand who you are speaking to. Understand his authority and power to transform you by simply being in his presence.

This is Steve and until we meet again. Press on, Steve

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    Mike a 67-year-old man who lives in North Carolina with his wife of 45 years Ann. He has four grown children. He worked thirty-five years in the Internet and Telecom industries. He was involved in 5 startup companies one of which was purchased by a fortune 15 company for several billion dollars. After leaving the high-tech world he started a consulting company helping small companies to launch new products, sales training, and leadership development. During this time, he was a member of seven different churches. Five of which were startups. He is an ordained elder and was men’s ministry director at four of those the churches.

   Mike's story tells of the strategies used in the high-tech businesses to sell big and reach corporate determined goals. These strategies and goals were often cut-throat and required behavior and actions that countered his faith. Sadly, he saw many of the same business metrics used in the churches he helped start. Mike currently is developing a full-time men’s ministry and is currently mentoring and coaching over twenty men. Mike speaks to the issues of men contending with a culture that seeks to stereotype and demean them.

Special thanks to Mike for sharing his story.

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Apostle Paul in a letter to the church in Phillipi writes this:

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.

Paul lays out a course to counter abnormal levels of anxiety…it’s... 

Through the intentional acts of prayer, petition, and requests all packaged in an attitude of thanksgiving Paul is instructing the readers of his letter how to correct their worrisome behavior. At first glance the word prayer seems obvious as to what it means...but it’s always about context.  

In this context the word prayer means to “face toward, a believers approach towards God.” Think about it for second. When we worry our full attention is towards the current crisis...it consumes us, our time, our thoughts, our energy, our hearts and minds. It separates and distracts us. In fact the biblical definition of worry is to divide 

On September 11th of 2001 we were at a theme park in Florida when the events of that terrible day began to unfold. We were given small amounts of information then told to evacuate the park. Needless to say there was a great deal of confusion and fright in the eyes of many..including my own. 

In my head I was making escape and survival plans...that’s all I could think about. Then someone in the group said “let’s pray.” What those words did was to redirect our approach from ourselves, our solutions, our worries to God. Prayer causes us to turn and face him and in doing so away from ourselves. 

There is much more to this story but for today when you start to worry, the kind that enslaves you, stop, turn and face God. Look at Him in the eyes (spiritually) and ask Him to help by receiving your anxious thoughts and then rebuilding a trust in him rather than yourself.

Remember this isn’t magic it’s hard work by relearning a new behavior by trusting in the one who created us. Jesus.

This is Steve and until we meet again, Press On.

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This is called Worried Sick.

One of the largest growing illnesses in the USA is anxiety disorder. Yet, Paul the author of:

Philippians 4:6 calls on us to:

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.

National Institute of Mental Health reports 

An estimated 31.1% of U.S. adults experience some anxiety disorder at some time in their lives. 

An estimated 19.1% of U.S. adults had any anxiety disorder in the past year. 

Anxiety disorder is considered a mental illness and is on the rise...it’s disabling.

With lock downs and distancing over the last two years there is growing concern of the long term psychological impact on children in the years to come.

With world tensions growing and graphic images of families fleeing the Ukraine I can only image that these numbers will increase.

An article from Psychiatric Today

The study found 85.7% of parents reported concerning changes in their children’s emotions and behaviors. 

In Mathew 6:25-33 Jesus warns us not to worry. Why, because worry disables us and shifts our trust from him to ourselves. At that point we dwell/obsess over our concerns. 

 Paul exhorts the Philippians to prayer instead of anxiety. It’s an intentional act of shifting trust and concerns from yourself to the Lord. 

Listen, anxiety disorder is serious business...yet I have to wonder, in a culture that has replaced God for self reliance, is this in part, the expected result? Of course it is...

1 Peter 5:7

Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.

It’s about transferring (casting your worries on Him)

…its not magic its hard work and requires a building of trust and behavior change.

There is much much more to this story for today

when you begin to worry about something...be intentional about shifting your concerns to Jesus. 

Redirect your trust from you to the Savior

This is Steve and until we meet again Press On.

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Have you ever faced trouble, heart break and tragedy that you thought there was no coming back from? From time to time you hear stories that stop you in your tracks. They leave a mark and make your own personal struggles seem small.

So it is with the the story of Horatio Spafford a successful lawyer living in Chicago during the 1870’s. Horatio was a prosperous man, a devoted husband and father, and a devout Christian. But in 1870, a series of events would turn his life inside out. It began with Horatio and Anna’s only son, Horatio Jr., died of Scarlet Fever at the tender age of four. The following year, while still mourning the loss of their son, every single one of Horatio’s investments were lost in the Great Chicago fire.

In1873 conscious of the hardship his family had suffered in the last three years he decided to take his family on a holiday to England where they would accompany his friend D.L. Moody on his next crusade. Shortly before they were to set sail, a last minute business development threatened to derail the trip. Horatio sent his wife and four children ahead and he would follow along shortly.

 Anna (his wife) and his 4 children...boarded a French ship. Four days into their trans-Atlantic journey, Horatio received the terrible news that the ship his family was on had sunk after colliding with another vessel. 

Several days later he received a message from his wife that she alone had survived and all the children were lost.   

  As soon as possible, Horatio boarded a ship to join his grieving wife. En route to England, the captain called him to the bridge and said “a careful reckoning has been made, and I believe we are now passing the very area where the Ville du Havre sunk.” According to Bertha Spafford Vester, a daughter born after the tragedy, her father penned the words to the hymn “It Is Well With My Soul” while on this journey.

When peace, like a river, attendeth my way,

When sorrows like sea billows roll;

Whatever my lot, thou hast taught me to say,

It is well, it is well with my soul

 It would have seemed so easy for the Spafford’s to blame God for the tragedy’s that had besieged them but instead of running from Him they sought comfort in God.  

Horatio and Anna’s faith in God never faltered. He later wrote to Anna’s half-sister, "On Thursday last we passed over the spot where she went down in mid-ocean, the water three miles deep. But I do not think of our dear ones there. They are safe, folded, the dear lambs, and there, before very long, shall we be too. In the meantime, thanks to God, we have an opportunity to serve and praise Him for His love and mercy to us and ours. I will praise Him while I have my being. May we each one arise, leave all, and follow Him."

The tragedy’s of this world are not by the hand of God but because of the darkness of a world that has rejected Him. Yet, even in that he calls to return to Him that He may comfort our souls.

Is it well with your soul? As we close this segment listen to this beautiful hymn and if your heart is so inclined call out to the one who can comfort your soul.

It Is Well With My Soul

Song By David Baroni

A Quiet Place: Instrumental

One Time Use

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 I often think how much easier it would be if I were a kid again...I mean just think, very few responsibilities to worry about. Care free...right! 

Wrong...I remember in elementary school standing next to my teacher when another teacher came up and asked “is he a worrier” and she responded “oh my gosh yes.”

The apostle Paul in a letter to the church in Phillipi writes this about worry in chapter 4. Philippians 4:6

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.

  I’m often confounded by this scripture and even those who quote it to me. “The Bible says you shouldn’t worry.” Yeah sure that just fixed it. Worry or anxiety seems inescapable so why does Paul write: “Do not be anxious about anything”...

Let’s be clear...this isn’t a call to a care free life...it’s a trust and distraction issue. The Greek word for worry means "to divide, to separate." It represents a mental state or condition in which someone is occupied with or is dwelling upon something. The use of this word is negative because it conveys the idea of distraction in occupying the attention of the mind. 

Starting to get the picture? Let me put it this way...worry is allowing a negative and destructive thought often prompted by dark elements to live “rent free” in your head. Space in your head and your heart should not be up for grabs...its to be reserved for Christ. For years I have always gone back and read a very small publication called My Heart-Christ’s Home written by Robert Boyd Munger. It’s about inviting Christ to live in all the rooms of our heart (head). 

There’s much more to this story but for today think about this

 Ask yourself is worry occupying a space in your head and heart rent free that is reserved for the Lord? Start handing out eviction notices. 

If you are interested in receiving MHCH just email us and we will send it to you at no cost.

This is Steve and until we meet again, Press On!

info@restlesspodcast.com

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Over the last 2 years with the pandemic, and lockdowns relationships have decoupled and attitudes have soured whether there is an intentionally to this time will tell. 

So lets you and I set a goal for 2022

How about this one... our attitudes.

This is called GRUMPY

I remember a friend of the family once telling the story of how she walked into a Christian bookstore and the person working there was grumpy and course. Her next words stuck with me...she said “yeah, she must be a Christian.” Ouch!

You’d think it would be just the opposite...

The apostle Paul records this in his letter to the church in Philippi found in chapter 4

Philippians 4:5

Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!

Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near.

Paul in his letter to the Philippians strongly encourages his readers that they are to “rejoice in the Lord.” Then he instructs his fellow believers to “let your gentleness be evident to all.” What’s the difference between the two?

Joy, is an inner quality that generally remains constant regardless of circumstances...but may not always be visible. Gentleness on the other hand is an outward quality. It is a forbearance and non retaliatory reaction to others.  Whether in gentleness or harshness it will be noticed...it leaves a mark either way.

Ok, before we go any further let me say...”guilty.” I once considered myself a gentle man. As I’ve gotten older and life (others) has worn me down or out...my fore-bearing reaction to others. 

Faith in Christ is not a magic potion it is transformative in nature it works over a lifetime

...it begins first by acknowledgement of our short coming. As Jesus proclaimed in the sermon on the mount Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.

They understand their short coming and grieve it.

There is much more to this story but for today think about this:

Joy is like the steady creek whose waters runs constantly and gentleness is the outward sounds that it produces. For all those who are near, they are pleasing to the soul. At the headwaters of it all is the acknowledgement that we need call on the one who can transform our hearts.

Today, your response to others will, leave a mark on someones heart the question is one of gentleness or a grumpy bookstore clerk.

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The Magi traveled a great distance. It’s believed that their journey began somewhere in Persia, perhaps northern Iraq or what is today Iran. A journey of that distance would take 9-12 months and could only be traversed by skilled and well prepared travelers. The desert was harsh and unforgiving.

Perhaps the most puzzling consideration of the journey of the Magi is why they even began it in the first place. They were armed with only a few pieces of information 

1.Ancient prophecy that foretold of a King being born in Bethlehem. (see Micah 5:2)

2.A star “that they had seen in the east).

     3.  a conviction despite the risks, to go.

Only 6 miles away in Jerusalem the reaction to the same news was startling different.

To Herod the king he was angered consumed by his intoxication with power and influence he would soon seek the child’s life.

To the religious leaders so engrossed by their rituals and legalisms they were indifferent...not to be bothered.

Yet to the Magi who with little information, endured great risks, traveled a great distance, made the journey to the divine and adored the Christ child, the son God who would forever make it possible for man to once again walk with His creator.

Today we have much more information than all of them and yet 2 thousand years later the most important question still remains…will you go? 

The journey is hard, long and the cost are high....will you go?

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“I Have Waited So Long”

Later After Jesus is born He is taken to the temple for ceremonies required for a new born. 

Luke as part of the birth narrative takes interest in a story of a women at the temple.

It’s interesting that Luke would record this story. It seems to be almost lost by the story of Simeon before but there’s something he wants us to know. I waited So Long

Luke 2:36-38

There was also a prophet, Anna, the daughter of Penuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was very old; she had lived with her husband seven years after her marriage, 37 and then was a widow until she was eighty-four. She never left the temple but worshiped night and day, fasting and praying. 38 Coming up to them at that very moment, she gave thanks to God and spoke about the child to all who were looking forward to the redemption of Jerusalem.

What possibly could we learn from this obscure women who is called a prophetess. The only women to be given this title in the New Testament and perhaps the whole Bible. We need only consider the brief sketch that Luke provides us about her.

She is a women far advanced in her years…84 to be exact. 

As a young boy I was told that growing old is no fun. I now understand that…everyday my body finds a new way to betray me. Aging bodies and pain often robs us of our strength and the hopes that we once had until we surrender to accepting things as they are….the spark of life begins to fade. It will, also cause us to consider our mortality drawing us even closer to God or because of bitterness further away.

Anna is also a widow: she knew sorrow at a very young age. Sorrow as the result of lost can do one of two things: it can make us bitter people who become resentful and hard. Blaming others and God for our circumstances and robbing us of our faith. 

Sorrow can also make us better people…in time become kinder, more sympathetic to the pain of others rooting our faith deeper in God by seeking refuge and shelter in Him.

Anna despite her age, tiring body and the pain of loss chose to seek after God where she spent hundreds of days in His presence

Worshiping and prayer and fasting. It was because of her choice to stay in the presence of God rather than run that her failing body and sorrow did not work their poison.  Because of her choices she was given the blessing of laying eyes on the messiah the one who would change the trajectory of all history and for those who seek him their hearts.

Will the child born in Bethlehem live in your heart on e day of the year or all the days of you life. Or will the poisons of life have their way with you? 

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What you just heard was a scene from the iconic 1946 film “Its A Wonderful Life where the enterprising George Baily has reached the end of his rope and begins to consider suicide believing that his life is worth more dead than alive. 

In 1977, the Independent reported this revelation from Stewart regarding that scene…as I said it "I felt the loneliness, the hopelessness of people who had nowhere to turn, and my eyes filled with tears. I broke down sobbing. That was not planned at all.”

Every year at Christmas this scene is replayed thousands of times over by those who have reached the end of their ropes. Debt, sorrow, and disappointment, are just a few of the things that bring about feelings of a loss of meaning, purpose and value. 

The problem is often compounded by a mislabeled Christmas that magically promises to solve the issue of peace and good will to men through the purchase of an abundance of gifts. That some how families fractured by disagreement and past hurts will come together as though nothing had happened. That somehow the loss of a loved one will all make sense. 

Yet for lowly shepherds standing in a field one quiet night, were visited by and angel, given Good News, and shown the way to a manger.

To magi 1500 miles to the east who long awaited the arrival of a King because of their knowledge of prophecy, and commitment to go were shown a way to a child. 

To an 84 year old women whose husband died years earlier, spent every day and night of the rest of her life at the temple waiting for a special day to see the one “who would become the way.”

This week and next join with us as we journey with the shepherds, magi and a women by the name of Anna.They were were the least likely characters that a world would expect to be lead to the one who would for all mankind “become the way,”

Are you looking to be shown THE WAY?

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My wife and I were reflecting back when several years ago

I endeavored to build a train lay-out for our son for Christmas. But not just any where, this one would run the perimeter of his room about a foot and a half below the ceiling. The track would run along the edge of the shelf for maximum visibility. Buildings such as a train station and houses and street lamps were installed to give the affect of a lit up town at night 

Then came Christmas morning…we first lit up the town and then turned the train on hoping that it would work…it did. We woke him up…his eyes slowly moved towards the ceiling and he began to take in all that he was seeing. It was not so much as what he said but the look on his face…his expressions. We heard a low but audible gasp that reminded me of how someone would act if they were amazed…it was the reaction we had hoped for. It was the start to a fine Christmas Day.

In the gospel of Luke the word “amazed run throughout. Some have referred to Luke as the Gospel of amazement. Luke, the writer and doctor uses these words to reflect on the events that were taking place…the word is associated with the supernatural.

Hear the words written by dr. Luke in chapter 2 regarding the shepherds.

So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. 17 When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, 18 and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. 19

Do you use the word amazed to describe the Christmas season? How about words like tired, frustrated, stressed out , and disappointed.  All those words are the result of what man does best…complicates and exploits.

If so today think about this: If you want to be amazed this Christmas or any it will require you to take a risk like the Magi and shepherds and begin a journey to the divine to seek out the child and savior born in Bethlehem. You will not be disappointed. Are you ready?

This is Steve and until we meet again Press On.

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This month we are pleased to bring you a short series done in the spirit of the Press On series but this time focused on Christmas. 

Truth historically we don’t know nearly as much about the events surrounding and including the birth of Christ as we do Easter. Such as what time of the year it actually occurred. What we do know is that it changed the trajectory of the universe and history.

We plan on bringing you four segments that take you off the beaten path of the regular Christmas time stories. These short stories such as Journey from Afar, In the Field: Why us, I Have Waited So Long and a Devine Encounter. They are designed to do what we always try and do: In a personal and touching manner ask you to consider what really matters. This Christmas Its our hope that its not just another Rinse Wash and Repeat experience.

…but perhaps a journey to the Divine

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We have Liftoff

This is Steve and welcome back to another segment of Press On produced by Restless the Podcast. 

This is called Thanksgiving We Have Lift Off.

For my family Thanksgiving conjures up a host of memories. In the 60’s and 70’s my brothers and sister I learned to be content in small things. In a way unbeknowning to us we managed our expectations. 

The relationships we had with each other and gathering of family were valued. These gatherings provided an opportunity for extraordinary creativity. 

One year my grandfather a veteran of world war came up to stay with us. Despite his respiratory issues caused by being mustered gassed by the germans he was an avid pipe smoker. 

One day as he often did he fell asleep with his pipe next to him in the ash tray. My younger brother Gary and I avid fans of the Apollo space program quietly took his pipe, removed all the tobacco and repacked it with match-heads from at least two books of matches. We then topped it off with tobacco and waited.

 A few minutes later he awoke and as predicted went for his pipe. We looked on… waiting for the pyro show to begin…in an instant there was a flash that filled the room then flames steadily built until it reached maximum height. Rumors have that it they danced across the ceiling. I looked over at Gary and the look on his face was like an arsonist admiring his work. I cant verify this but I thought I heard the words “Houston we have ignition and liftoff.” 

As the flame died down reality set in and we expected trouble would be coming our way. Surprisingly our laid back grandfather looked at his pipe looked over at us then looked at his pipe again then continued smoking it as nothing had happened. Needless to say it was a milestone memory.

As a family we were thankful for the little things because we didn’t have any of the big things 

There is much more to this story but for today think about this:

Hear the words of C.S. Lewis:

We ought to give thanks for all fortune: if it is good, because it is good; if bad, because it works in us patience, humility, contempt of this world and the hope of our eternal country.

This Thanksgiving manage your expectations regarding what you are thankful for by focusing on things eternal rather than temporal.

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Recently we created a support page to help cover the cost of podcast which for is 4-5K per year. As you know our visual theme is nautical on our web site so we would like you to consider getting in the boat to help row for a while. So check out our support page and subscribe star and think about jumping in with us. Some content will be produced for fellow rowers but as always if this show has touched you just emails at info@restlespodcast.com and tell us you would like access to all content and we will always make sure you receive it. Consider your self a cheerleader instead. 

The Chicklet Man

Back in the late 60’s and early 70’s while growing up in rural central Maryland my siblings and I discovered and older gentlemen in the neighborhood who we called the Chicklet man. His real name was Mr. Whitaker he boarded at a house adjacent to ours. He was probably in his late 80’s perhaps even early nineties and he was in good health. We first saw him taking walks through out the community on a daily basis. He would stop and begin to talk about whatever was important you. At some point he would pull out his little box of Chicklet gums and offer you one. It was a big seller because every time we’d see him all of us would run out and ask “Mr. Whitaker can we have a Chicklet?”

He would invite us to take walks with him and talk about simple things that kept our attention he never complained he one day when he fell on a slick road he just laughed it off but knew it had hurt. What I remember about him was his simplicity, approachability, time had not soured him, his mind and heart was not harden, and his invitation to walk with him.

 Then one day he was gone.

Years later as I think about him Im reminded of what Jesus said to his disciples in the gospel of Mark 10 about little children.  

He said to them, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. 

While this story is about children its about you and me us adults whose hearts and minds have been soured and hardened by time. Minds that have already decided how things really thus making it difficult to hear the truth.

There’s much more to this story but for today think about this:

What is about Children and their hearts and minds that compelled Jesus to say: Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.”What about you has time soured your mind about is really true is your heart so hard it can not hear the truth. It seems like Jesus’ favorite word was come…are you ready.

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As I look back at my growing up years I realize that they are a collection of experiences in relationships with others whether positive or negative. 

Despite the hardships that our family endured we through the examples of my mother and grandparents were ingrained with the spirit of CAN DO. My grandfather, the farmer and horse trainer would say things like “the only thing hard work hurt on a man was his feelings” You just got to get up and get your work done that’s the only way to do it” It was without question that this can do spirit was forged by WWI, the Great Depression and WWII. He would tell us that we don’t have time to feel sorry for ourselves. Indeed a Can Do spirit…

IT REMINDS ME OF WHAT PAUL WROTE IN PHILIPPIANS 4

I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. 

I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. 13 I can do all this through him who gives me strength.

There’s those words. “Can Do”. 

The greek words used for Can Do Greek “ischuo from ischus means to be strong in body or in resources. Ischuo in this context means having the resources to accomplish some objective.

There’s much more to this story but for today think about this:

Can Do used in this context is not about self motivation or empowerment for our own enterprises.

 It's in Christ that we have been given the resources and strength to accomplish his will….not just our own.

You don’t have His permission to quit, concede, or accept that which is evil. Stop with the “we just have to accept this.” 

I encouraged you to get on your knees, ask the Lord to muster up in you the “can do” spirit that he has already given you. Because he has made you for “such a time as this.” 

 This is Steve and until we meet again, Press On

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A year and a Half ago Im retired after 35 years During that course of time I developed several good relationships with co-workers that became friendships.

 Back in the 80’s as a relatively young man I had energy to spare, yet as time rolled on I slowed down,

When energy drinks came on the market it became the quest of my friend Dennis and I to find an elusive orange drink offered by a certain manufacturer. They became hard to find but when we did find them it was like an oasis in the dessert.  

One day Dennis and I we stopped by convenient store and decided to try an off brand drink with an odd name. Within minutes of our first sip we both were tormented with headaches. 

Years later we still talk about that day…Let’s be honest it seems that we all have this inherent drive to find something that quenches a thirst or eternal longing, a restlessness if you will.  

The same is true a a women that Jesus met….she was drawing water from an historic well. She too had this eternal longing that the water from that was was un able to quench. Let’s listen in on this story as told in the gospel of John chapter 4.

Jesus answered, “Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst.

There are many wells in this world that we drink from and Im not talking about a physical water, things like social media, television and social causes , news, politics, Hollywood, NY best sellers, that market themselves as sources that quench our thirst but are they.

There is much more to this story but for today think about this:

St Augustine wrote : You oh lord have made us for yourself and our hearts will not rest until they rest in thee. We are restless people looking to have the thirst in our souls quenched…so let me ask you…What Well Do You Drink from? The one that gives you life or a well that gives you a really bad headache or worst yet a soul that remains unquenched?

This is Steve and until we meet again Press On!

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This is called Knots

I started thinking about Christmas and while the weather is still tolerable putting some lights in our Holley Tree. Thinking about it-sparked a memory of a few years back when decorating that same tree…I pulled out the lights to find them all tangled up…

After spending what seemed like an hour untangling them I finally had enough…a nearby pair of garden shears completed the task. On the ground lay the carnage of a string of lights cut into 30 pieces.

Truth is one of the things I can’t stand is knots…things becoming entangled. Ever heard the saying "I feel like I'm all tangle in knots."

That includes life and things like faith. Historically humans have done a great job making that which was meant to be simple…complex.

For example the Jewish faith, the Torah contained 10 commandments given by God himself. Later 603 additional commandments were added by religious leaders for a total of 613. In time additional commandments were added to clarify the 613. Today there’s over a thousand of them.

When Jesus came along one of the things that I marvel at is how he began to untangle knots. First he confronted the religious leaders for making believing in God complicated and hard. He said things like my yoke is easy and my burden is light”Found in Matthew 11

 He was talking about the heavy burden of the system of works that the Pharisees laid on the backs of the people that Jesus was offering to relieve.  

Secondly he began to untangle peoples lives one by one whether it was a women at a well whose life was tangled in knots by multiple failed marriages he offed her a living water that would quench the thirst of her soul or man was crippled who had laid on a mat for 38 years trying to get in a pool that he thought would heal him He said to you want to get well…Jesus untangled his knots.

Theres much more to this story but for today think about this: Are you all tangled up in knots? Do you want to get untangled Then recall the word Jesus “come to meal who are weary and burdened and I will give you rest." He is the great "untangler" ….maybe its time you ask him to untangle you  

This is Steve and until we meet get again Press On.

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This is Steve and welcome back to another segment of Press On. This called Portrait 

Take a look at some of pictures hanging on the walls of your house...why are they there, what to they communicate to you or who do they represent?

When my wife and I go to colonial Williamsburg the historical actors will sometimes say “would you like to have a quick portrait done with me”? 

Its their way of saying want to get a picture with me? What are pictures or portraits really…

Hear the words of the writer of Colossians 1 (Paul)

Colossians 1:15-19

He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation: for by Him all things were created, both in the heavens and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones, or dominions, or rulers, or authorities—all things have been created through Him and for Him.

The Greek word eikon (image) meaning perfect-representation, the very substance or essential embodiment of something or someone.

The same word is used in Greek to describe a portrait or more familiar to us, the word “photograph.”

Typically they are representations of a moment in time...nothing else. They are two dimensional only and do not capture the whole context of meaning and it importance to you.

That’s not what Paul is talking about... we see that in verse 19 “For God was pleased to have all his fullness dwell in him,”

You see Jesus was not merely a “sketch of God or a lifeless portrait He is the full revelation of God...nothing was left out. 

Theres much more to the story but for today think about this:

In the gospel Matthew 6 tells us that if we seek him we will find Him. When you do so God it’s like adding a brush stroke to a cosmic portrait...in time the face of Jesus emerges.

This is Steve, be of good courage and Press ON

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I love the summer…the long days of sunshine, warm temps and variety of colors…it feels like life. 

Sure the real hot days makes me uncomfortable like most but it’s during this time of the year that my body thrives. 

At the end of summer I play The Beach Boys song Summers Over as a sad good bye.

As the days shorten I get anxious about what millions of people suffer with SAD…that is Seasonal Affective Disorder. It’s cause is the lack of light and can lead to anxiety and feelings of dread.

The writer of 1 John (John)

 1 John 1:5-7

This is the message we have heard from him and declare to you: God is light; in him there is no darkness at all….he continues….But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin.

Many theologians believe that prior to the fall Adam and Eve had a physical presence that glowed. You heard it right, their skin had a luminescence. In fact science has photographed the human body giving off a glow caused by excited protons...interestingly the face is the brightest part of the body.

This is not a coincidence...God made us to be the people of light...physically and spiritually. Light purifies and the darkness can not survive in it.

There is much more to this story but today Think about this:

There are two forms of SAD one is Seasonal Affective Disorder and the other is Spiritual Affective Disorder

We are people built to live in the light, physically and spiritually. If you are experiencing anxiety or feelings of dread then do two things:

1. When the Sun is shining get outdoors and some time in it allowing it to rejuvenate your body and secondly,
2. When your soul is darkened by oppressive news or dark memories of your past…then walk towards the light his is name is Jesus who said: I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”

This is Steve and until we meet again….you know what to do Press On.

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This is Steve and welcome back to another segment of Press On. 

This is called Hold It Together.

I’d like to ask you a question…What holds you together? No really what holds your life together? 

Seems like a simple question but is it?

Almost everyday I come across stories of individuals and families that are struggling...the word chaos comes to mind. Look around and listen...it’s not hard to find. In fact try and stomach 5 minutes of the national news…it’s disheartening. I would wager you know exactly what I’m talking about…perhaps your life, family, world feels like chaos. Listen to what the writer of Colossians 1 says:

Colossians 1:15-17

He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation: for by Him all things were created, both in the heavens and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones, or dominions, or rulers, or authorities—all things have been created through Him and for Him. He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together.

 Now consider what Paul says in verse 17 “He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together.”

Christ is not only the agent of the beginning of creation and the end of it but He is the force in between that holds everything together. 

William Barclay writes this: “That is say, all laws which govern and sustain order and not chaos in the universe are an expression of the mind of the Son....the laws by which the universe hangs together are not only scientific laws but also divine.

Simply put, life apart from Christ is chaos...with Christ there is order and thus purpose. 

Theres much more to this story but for today think about this: 

It’s easy to look around and see chaos, as the world pushes God out of society chaos abounds but remember, order begins when Christ is in our hearts. When things seem to be falling apart, ask the Lord to reestablish order because “in him all things hold together.”

This is Steve and until we meet again Press On

and to Matt H thanks for listening?

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Not long ago my wife and I along with our good friends hiked a trail between Lexington and Concord Yes, that trail was a portion of the route that Paul Revere took on a dark April night in 1775.

As we hiked that trail an image that came to mind...one of a guy who braves the possibility of being captured, imprisoned or even killed rides his horse to bring important news to others. In fact Revere was intercepted and detained by a British patrol between Lexington and Concord. 

Typically we would define persevere as just trying to hang on with the goal of simply surviving...sounds negative but is that the biblical image of persevere? 

No, perseverance is the act of continuing to do something even though the task is difficult. ... Paul describes perseverance as being "steadfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labor is not in vain in the Lord" (1 Corinthians 15:58).

In James letter he adds these critical details...the promise of "the crown of life" to those who, by their perseverance, show their love for God ( 1:12 ). 

Here’s why persevering is more than just hanging on.

First, because there is a finish line and at that line awaits the “crown of life.” The promise that in this life and the next there is meaning, purpose and value...and when that last breath leaves our body there is life eternal.

Secondly, those who persevere demonstrate their confidence and trust in the Lord.

There is much more to this story but for today think about this:

Perseverance is not a desperate act of simply trying to survive...it’s an offensive measure that denies the enemy victory by setting your heart and mind on the eternal not the temporal.

This is Steve and until we meet again Press On…when you do so you might just start a revolution 

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Growing up our family faced a number of challenging problems not unlike many families in the 60’s. 

As a family of 7 there was financial hardship. The majority of my clothing was clothes worn by my brothers the year before. During the summer time meals from the the garden was common such as butter bean stew. It was butter beans with corn, butter beans with tomatoes, butter beans with chicken, butter beans with rice and the list went on. As kids you didn’t know any better you didn’t wonder why you were having so many meals with butter beans. The old man worked hard but was haunted by his past and secret use of alcohol the outcome of his periodic drinking was no secret however...he often became violent which created fear and tension. We all liked to watch John Wayne movies on our black and white console tv. John Wayne’s spirit of “true grit” or resolve and determination by strength of character became our personal rally call. 

Even with that spirit however there is an obvious question to be asked “to what end”. For purpose make it safely to death at a ripe old age. Does even having this attitude give us meaning, value and purpose. 

The apostle Paul in Philippians 3 speaks to this unavoidable question: “Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me.... I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.

There’s much more to this story but for today think about this....having resolve to Press On is only sustainable when our purpose for doing so is eternal. 

The truth is God through Jesus calls all of us heavenward...are you willing to let him take hold of you.

This is Steve and until we meet again Press On.

To Dustin a vibrant young man in his 30’s fighting to beat Covid our prayers, thoughts and hopes are with you.

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This is Steve and welcome back to another segment of Press On. This is called Finish Line.

Over the last several weeks I’ve talked to a number of people who are struggling emotionally and physically....and heard of many more.

As I reflect back on my growing up years I remembered a game my brothers and I would play. One at a time each of was given a football and we would run full speed at the others in an effort to cross a line considered the end zone. It was less about football and more about pumling the guy with the ball...it was brutal.. I remembered being massacred by my brothers. We would laugh, fight and sometimes cry in pain but the finish line always stayed in sight. Then it meant something else now it means something epic. Our lives...and what happens after that last breath leaves your body. 

Hear the words of the writer of Hebrews 12

Since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us” 

The truth is all of us have a race marked out before us and yes there is a finish line for some it will be the temporal things that this life momentarily offers. 

For others though that will not be enough because they reject that theirs lives are momentary and meaningless. 

There is much more to this conversation but for today think about this.

You will get pumbled get in life and it’s going to hurt but when your finish line is the eternal rather then the temporal it’s a life changer. 

So what do you do: 

1. As we run, we must “fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith” He’s the finish line.

2. Surround yourself with those who don’t take theirs eyes on the finish line Christ. I have a long time friend and group of guys who’s motto is “we get each other to the finish…even if it's ugly.

This Steve and until we meet again Press O

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This is Steve and welcome back to another segment of Press On. This called Stiff Necked.

Usually every morning I wake up with a sniff neck and body because of arthritis i and of course theres that thing called gravity and age.

Ive often complained that I "feel like the tin man" from the wizard of Oz caught in a rain storm without an oil can.  

In Micah 6:8 God answers the Jewish people regarding what he wants from them: He has told you, O man, what is good; And what does the Lord require of you

But to do justice, to love kindness (mercy), And to walk humbly with your God?

God was clear about what was important to Him and it wasn't their ritualistic practices it was the attitude of their hearts and in this He wanted them to walk humbly with God.

So what does humility and being stiff necked have to do with each other...they are the polar opposites. Throughout the OT God often referred to the Jews as stiff necked people this was figure of speech when describing the attitude of Israel toward God.

The term stiff necked was originally used to describe an ox that refused to be directed by the farmer…it refused to turn the head or was very slow in order to take a different path.

Sound familiar...perhaps it should. Pride, arrogance, and yes being stiff necked exist in abundance first in our own heart, particularly my own, Yet God Identifies it as an obstacle in walking with Him.

Jesus in the sermon on the mount brings attention to it when he said “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. This was not about material possessions He was speaking to spiritual realities: He always did: To be poor in spirit is to recognize our utter spiritual bankruptcy before God.

There is much more to this story but for today think about this  

Unlike this world in Gods economy humility is not a weakness its a strength, and more than that the kingdom of God is only accessible when our hearts our right before God.

This is Steve and until we meet again Press ON

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God has shown us his loyal love in the person of Jesus? What about you? Is loyalty foundational to your love for him, your spouse, family and those you encounter.

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Today think about this: “act justly” by applying God’s determination of “right and wrong” equally to all you encounter. Not because you have to but because it’s who you are. Why because of Gods grace in Jesus we have been given mercy for all those who receive it. 

This is Steve and until we meet again Press On.

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Secondly installed deep into our souls is a compass that can distinguish between right and wrong and because of it as Paul tells us in Romans 1 “people will be without excuse.”

We will talk more about justice next time but for today think about this:

Before we can understand what it is that God wants from us , such as to act justly we must acknowledge that there is “something more” it’s the God given awareness that He made us for himself and our hearts will remain restless until they find rest in Him.

This is Steve and until we meet again Press On.

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Encouraging others to be everything that God has made them to be should be our default setting.

In a world that makes it culturally acceptable to tear people down building them up in the image of God is life giving.

With that my dear friends until we meet again I encourage you to Press On..

Happy Fathers Day to all you Dads

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What matters to you...think about it “what really matters to you?” I’m sure many of you, as did I hear your parents say wait until you get my age then you’ll understand better...what’s important.

This past 18 months the pandemic has reminded us and myself of what really matters. How by two major examples: relationships and our mortality. 

It separated us from those we love and everyday friendships. Just this morning I read an article from cdc.gov that hospital ER’s have seen an increase in suicides and attempted suicides among ages 12-17. Sadly this is not the first article that I have read regarding this sad statistic.

 In Gods economy we were made and are dependent on relationships. First with the one who made us than each other, it’s how we were wired. When distance, separation, or confinement interrupts or stops the relationship process we suffer and our lights dim.

 Secondly our mortality. As a young man I assumed there would be a million tomorrow’s...there isn’t at least not on this earth. If we live to a life expectancy of 77 that’s 28,144 days. For some it’s more for many it’s much less. It’s not a million tomorrow’s.

So here is the question that if we are honest with ourselves is “what really matters.” Jesus in the gospel of Mark: 36 For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world, and forfeit his soul?

Jesus as he always does, drills down to the obvious and most important question that is fundamental to a persons existence...”what really matters.” 

In fact we are told that in Hebrews what we hope for are the things we can not see.

There is much more to this story but for today think about this:

When we fill our lives with things that we “see” the material, these things will all be gone, they do not last. 

What does last however is the love in relationships, with each other and most importantly with the one who made us our Lord Jesus.

I leave you with the same question that we started with What really matters

This is Steve and until we meet again Press On

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That is the kind of hope that our restless souls long for. It's the kind of hope that I want and I think you want too.

This is Steve and until we meet again...Press On.

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We all have them you know...mats... places or things that we have anchored ourselves to thinking it gives us safety or familiarity.

There is much more to this story but today think about this:

What legends have you been told or believed that you thought gave you hope but simply do not.

 Jesus however, who is not legend, gives us the promise of a new hope but more then that... a change of address from a life disappointment to one that is genuinely full.

The question is are you ready to pick up your mat and walk?

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There is much more to this story but for today think about this: It’s when we take the time to look each other in the eyes that we may see their heart. It’s how our Lord made us for the heart reveals our true character.

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At the same time while these events are going his son William whom he has not seen for years is experiencing his own life challenges. He is about to enter into his sophomore year in high school and while all his friends are spending summer vacations with family or going to expensive camps Williams mom can’t afford any of that. He hears about a summer camp with an organization called Young Life and is also befriended by his math teacher. He is able to attend and life begins to change. Within two weeks of returning home home he is told that his mom has only weeks to live. Both his dad and the rest of his siblings after little contact in 4 years meet in the hospital room of their dying mom and wife. 

What happens next in the lives of this family is nothing short of a miracle.

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This is Steve and until we meet again, Press On

Based on Jonah Chapter 2

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This is Steve and un til we meet again Press On. 

Jonah 1

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John 20:26-27

"by his wounds you have been healed." Isaiah 53:5

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It’s in the fellowship of suffering that you and I form our immortal ties, cemented by pain, tears and love for each other. The suffering that Paul speaks of is not accidental or a Devine punishment but a gift…more about this is the days to come.  

This is Steve and even in suffering, Press On.

Based on Philippians 1:29

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This is Steve, and until we meet again, do what is perfectly clear…Press On 

1 Corinthian 13:12:  For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I have been fully known.

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In short we need to keep putting one spiritual foot down in front of the other it’s then was Deitick Bonnehoffer said in his book Cost of Disciple ship that we see God work and learn to believe.

This is Steve and until we meet again, you know what to do… “Press On.”

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Therefore do not lose heart...keep walking. 

This is Steve, and yes Keep Pressing On.

2 Corinthians 4:16-18

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2 Corinthians 5:17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new. 

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 Today think about this: It’s only when we walk with our creator does our soul, our spirit burn with life…because:  

“He has put eternity into man’s heart, yet so that he cannot find out what God has done from the beginning to the end” (Ecclesiastes 3:11).

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Psalm 34:18

The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.

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Luke 24 Road To Emmaus

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The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.”

Deut 31:8

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What about you…are you willing to walk across that basement without a light?

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Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. John 14:6

The ancient path...that is the Good Way…is clearly marked with the of name Jesus.

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Do you hear the voice of the shepherd?

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Based On Psalms 23:4

When you enter into the valleys of life, and you will, and the shadows of fear darken your path, will you do it alone? Before you decide heed the words from the Good Shepherd in John 16 “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”

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After high school he attended an American University offered by the military. During this time, he identified himself as a “hoodlum”, engaging in activities that defined the meaning of the word. He eventually began a career with the U.S. Government at the age of 19 and then married 2 years later hoping to make right an out of wedlock child which ended up in divorce 5 years later. In 2005 he remarried, to a woman whom he calls his “angel” because she has helped him get his life back on track. 

His advancements as an employee of the U.S. Government allowed him and his family to travel throughout Europe and Japan. One day while in Germany he is introduced to LT, an ex-marine now working for the government, who begins to invest in KW by meeting early in the morning with him to do a Bible Study. While the Bible study didn’t quite register with KW, what did draw his attention was the qualities that LT exhibited. Qualities of calmness, peace, purpose and certainty, the very qualities that were void in his own life.   

One night a few years later, alone in a house in Germany, his family away, he prepares to go out on the town. The “hoodlum” of his earlier years decides to go out and have some fun...who possibly would know? It’s then he encounters the spirit of God who puts him on the floor his living room weeping for hours as he recounts his life.  It's then that he feels the “embrace of God." Listen in, as KW shares his life changing story...a story that may sound familiar to you and your restless life!

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   During one getaway weekend the leader of the group encouraged the college students to go out into the woods and spend an hour alone with God. Jared made sure he went well “off the trail” because he wanted no one around as he intended to face down God with an ultimatum. In that hour alone he told God to “show up now or I’m walking.”

   Over the course of the next few years his depression grew worse as he was unable to complete college. He began to see himself as an atheist, his rationale...if there were a God of the Bible he would have never let this happen to me. God never showed up. Over time and two suicide attempts later, Jared more thoroughly planned to end his pain, this time he would get it right. Before going through with it he decided to try one last therapy, ECT. Electroconvulsive Therapy. After multiple treatments he woke one morning and something was different. For the first time in years the possibility of hope had returned.

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