Don't Look Back - Day 4 Of 5; LONGING FOR SUPPLIES Elevate Your Day With Andi And Brian Hale podcast

Elevate Your Day with Andi and Brian Hale

1
The Waiting Game 3:15

منذ 3 أيام3:15

3:15

The Waiting Game One of the most adorable challenges that went viral on TikTok was the Fruit Snack Challenge, also known as the Patience Challenge or Candy Challenge. Basically, this game encourages parents to test their child’s self-restraint. It’s simple; parents put a bowl of snacks or delicious treats in front of their kids and tell them they can eat it once they get back to the room. The parent leaves and the game begins. What makes this most amusing is the undetected camera recording the kid’s every move. I must say this made for fantastic TV. Some children epically failed and forfeited the rest of their snack while others passed their patience test with ease enjoying their savory reward in exchange. My absolute favorite of this challenge was a baby girl named Niko. While undergoing the delayed gratification challenge, there was a moment when her countenance fell as if her time to indulge in her favorite snack would never come. The best part came at the end of the video when she randomly looked over her shoulder and a spark of enthusiasm prompted her to start jumping in her seat. We, the viewers, didn’t know why her patient stance turned into pure joy, but we later learned that Niko heard her father before she saw him and knew it was time to feast on the promise. It is clear from this story that patience is indeed a virtue, but what was most satisfying was Niko’s reaction when she realized her father didn’t forget about her. Yes, the wait seemed long, especially for a young child—five minutes feels like five months to them. Nevertheless, when it was all said and done and she heard her father approaching, her expectations grew. It was worth the wait! Winning the waiting game of life takes patience as well. But while you are waiting, know, without a shadow of a doubt, that your heavenly Father has not abandoned you. You are not forgotten. Just listen for the sound of your Father and soon you will look over your shoulder and shout with glee in anticipation. Not to mention, you might even get to relish some yummy fruit snacks for passing the test. In your wait . . . release the weight of impatience . God has not forgotten you. Trust His timing and wait with expectation. Prayer Abba Father, forgive me for the times I have been impatient, for You are not slow in keeping your promises. Help me not to jump ahead of Your plans out of frustration. Increase my ability to tolerate the wait with the understanding that You are orchestrating the perfect plan for my life. I am not forgotten. I am not forsaken. I will patiently wait (in expectation) for Your goodness. Amen.…

Elevate Your Day with Andi and Brian Hale

1
Hide and Seek 5:10

منذ 5 أيام5:10

5:10

Hide and Seek From The Game Of Life by Dacia James Lewis “. . . Ninety-eight, ninety-nine, one hundred. Ready or not, here I come.” That was the indicator for every player to expedite their plan and be securely tucked away in the best hiding place so that they are not found by “it” (the seeker). You know the game. Hide and Seek! The human scavenger hunt that every adolescent loved to play. Does it ever appear to you that God is playing a game of Hide and Seek? When you are faced with insurmountable disappointments and begging God for clarity, does it feel like He has found the best hiding place ever? I don’t know about you, but there have been times during my waiting season when God’s presence appeared to be nowhere in sight. It felt like He was playing a Divine game of Hide and Seek if you will, and the more angst I was about a situation, the harder it was to find Him. It is the glory of God to conceal things, but the glory of kings is to search things out. – Proverbs 25:2 ESV With minimum words of confirmation, we can easily misconstrue God’s silence for absence. The truth is, God longs to be sought out and it is in our wholehearted pursuit that God reveals Himself. Sometimes it’s as easy to find God as seeing a hider’s feet sticking out from behind the curtain. Other times it takes a while to find God, not because He doesn’t want to be found, but He wants us to dig deeper. You will seek me and find me, when you seek me with all your heart. – Jeremiah 29:13 ESV Essentially, every hider in the game wants to be found. It is the very essence of the game. God wants to be found; and just like a snicker or giggle in the game of Hide and Seek that exposes a hider’s whereabouts to the seeker, God always makes Himself known. When you don’t hear Him, when you don’t see Him, when you can’t feel Him, perhaps it is time to jump in a game of Hide and Seek with the Master, watching and waiting for Him to reveal Himself to you. But from there you will seek the Lord your God and you will find him, if you search after him with all your heart and with all your soul. – Deuteronomy 4:29 ESV In your wait . . . release the weight of uncertainty. Seek God with all your heart. He will make Himself known. “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. – Matthew 7:7 ESV Prayer Father God, when I can’t find You, remind me of Your steadfast and immovable spirit. When I am faced with the uncertainty of Your presence, show me that You are near. Your Word says that when I draw near to You, You will draw near to me. Therefore, I commit to seeking You with my whole heart. I will consistently ask You for Your guidance. I will diligently seek Your ways. I will persistently knock on Your door until You answer with Your plans or Your presence. God, I make You my quest and I will pursue You today, and every day of my life. Amen.…

Elevate Your Day with Andi and Brian Hale

1
Tug of War 4:10

منذ 6 أيام4:10

4:10

Tug of War From The Game Of Life by Dacia James Lewis Most people assume that Tug of War is a sport that only requires power and endurance, but in actuality, it is a technical sport requiring mechanics and strategy to be effective. This is executed with the help of what is known as a driver. Though not actually in the game, the driver directs their team on the exact moments to “pull” and exact moments to “hang” to prevail in victory. When the driver notices that the opposition is attempting to pull, they call it a “hang.” The command “hang,” also synonymous with the command “rest,” may insinuate an order to chill out, disengage, or release the stance, but it is quite the contrary. The driver calling for a “hang” instructs the team members to stand in place, drop their center of gravity, and hang tight using their weight as an anchor. Feet are planted into the ground and there is limited movement. This tactic is used to wear down the opposing team in their pull efforts by providing resistance. It is the idea of a relentless refusal to be moved by the fight in front of you. The combined weight and resilient effort in a “hang” state provide stabilization that makes it hard for the opponent to get the upper hand. The hang is the equivalent of being rooted, unshaken, or immovable despite the onset of attacks coming at you. Contrarily, the driver can call for a “pull” in the game of Tug of War which prompts the team members to dig in their heels and collectively power walk backward without surrender. This is executed by a coordinated, all-out effort to dominate the opposing forces. When life hits hard, God calls for us to tighten our grip and pull with all of our might, resisting the urge to let go of our rope—hope. The good news is that we are not pulling alone. The Lord has sent us a host of angels to help tow the load and fight with us. I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my eye upon you. – Psalm 32:8 ESV While waiting, there will be times when we must remain steadfast in our situation (hang) and times when we must pursue our destiny with full force while hauling the weight our adversary loads on us (pull). In either case, we can’t do it alone, so our best option is to cling tightly to the directions of our Driver—God. He has the big picture in His view and will give us the command to secure the victory. And your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying, “This is the way, walk in it,” when you turn to the right or when you turn to the left. – Isaiah 30:21 ESV In your wait . . . release the weight of control. Allow God to direct you on when to strengthen your spirit in pursuit and when to rest in His promises. Prayer Father God, You are my Helper. Order my steps and make clear the direction in which I should go. Teach me to know when to fortify myself for the battle and when to rest in Your sovereignty. Amen.…

Elevate Your Day with Andi and Brian Hale

1
The Trust Fall 4:10

منذ 7 أيام4:10

4:10

Trust Fall From The Game Of Life by Dacia James Lewis Trust Fall is a game that many businesses, sports teams, and church organizations use to build trust amongst their members and teammates. One person crosses their arms over their chest, closes their eyes, and blindly falls back with the hope that the person behind them catches them before they hit the ground. Whew! Just thinking about that gives me anxiety. Why? Because one bad experience with Peggy (at dance camp) and a bruised bum spurred my fear of playing this game. When yours truly finally stopped trembling and worked up the nerve to faithfully fall, good ‘ole Peggy got distracted and my behind was introduced to the gym floor. Since then, my trust falls have been limited. Can you relate? How about this; have you ever eaten at a particular fast-food restaurant and suffered food poisoning? What are the chances that you return to that restaurant? Slim to none if you are anything like me, for fear that it will happen again. I believe this holds in our daily lives. For many of us, the areas where we have been hurt or let down by others tend to be the areas where fear has settled in and planted its roots. We become demoralized at the thought of reliving a situation. From that moment on, hesitancy is incubated, and every step becomes a calculated move based upon the reasoning of our past experiences. I know in the valley of my waiting season, the spirit of fear heavily kicked in after my miscarriage. The fear of having another miscarriage troubled my spirit. Not to mention, if the intense stomach pains of that incident were anything like labor pains, then I was petrified. That fear eventually paralyzed me and created apprehension in my pursuit of a family. Another aspect of fear that can stifle our wait is the worry that what we are believing God for, will never happen. Again, this stems from our experience or lack thereof. If we have yet to see our promise manifest, it becomes difficult to envision it coming to fruition. The longer our desires tarry, the deeper the fears embed into our minds, giving way to hesitancy, resistance, and even hopelessness. for God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control. – 2 Timothy 1:7 ESV Fear comes boxed in all types of bows of deception that can stem from one unfortunate or unfavorable situation. God wants to untangle the fears that are choking your destiny. He wants you to lean back and to trust Him with your whole heart, and with each trust fall, you will gain more and more confidence in His security and faithfulness. Are you ready? Cross your arms, close your eyes, take a deep breath, and fall back into the arms of the Father. I guarantee He is a safe place to land. Trust Him. When I am afraid, I put my trust in you. – Psalm 56:3 ESV In your wait . . . release the weight of fear. Trust God with your whole heart. Prayer Heavenly Father, reveal any hidden fears that are lying dormant in my life so that I can surrender them to You. Lead me into a deeper place of trusting You with my whole heart. Amen.…

Elevate Your Day with Andi and Brian Hale

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The Quiet Game 4:16

منذ 8 أيام4:16

4:16

The Quiet Game From The Game Of Life by Dacia James Lewis Who can remember a time in school when students got rowdy and a teacher said, “Ok guys, let’s play a game!” Excitedly the kids would settle down and prepare for some fun when the teacher continued with, “It’s called … the quiet game.” Moans and groans filled the room because we weren’t naive to this ageless trick which felt like more of a prank than a game. Regardless, there is no special technique or strategy to the game, just a competition of stillness. We live in a chaotic world and with all the busyness that consumes our life many of us can use a little quiet. But, at the same time, there is something about involuntary silence that makes us uncomfortable. We have gotten so accustomed to the necessity of noise that stillness becomes an awkward disposition. I see this flaw in its most heightened state during my prayer time. I find myself bringing a laundry list of requests, demands, and complaints to God without waiting in His presence to see if He has anything to offer me in exchange. And even on the days that I embrace the stillness of meditation, in less than no time, the silence is eventually filled with extraneous activities like picking lint off the floor or refolding a disheveled blanket. Before I know it, quiet time has been infiltrated by a full-blown to-do list lodged into my brain. “Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!” – Psalm 46:10 ESV God wants our undivided attention, but our hectic lifestyles can thwart the transmission line. Stillness, albeit uncomfortable, is necessary. Jesus understood the importance of this sacred time and often withdrew to a quiet place to commune with the Father. If Jesus needed this intimate time with our Father, I presume we need it too. Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him; fret not yourself over the one who prosper in his way, over the man who carries out evil devices! – Psalm 37:7 ESV I am guilty of filling up my silence with busyness especially during difficult seasons of waiting. I would much rather occupy my time with insignificant activities than feel the frustrations of delayed promises. In those periods of waiting, our quiet time with God can feel uncomfortable because it forces us to face our disappointments and choose to rely on God’s presence for peace. But, the benefits of playing this game with God are insurmountable. In His presence, there is peace, joy, wisdom, strength, and strategy. We just have to sit there long enough to receive it. For God alone, O my soul, wait in silence, for my hope is from him. – Psalm 62:5 ESV In your wait . . . release the weight of busyness. Quiet yourself in the presence of God and give Him time to respond. And rising very early in the morning, while it was still dark, he departed and went out to a desolate place, and there he prayed. – Mark 1:35 ESV Prayer Lord, I commit to rearranging my schedule so that I don’t forfeit my quiet time with You. Teach me how to prioritize my day, set boundaries on my time, and make You the center of my life. As I pray and meditate on Your Word, let my mind and heart be silent before You. Let Your peace calm the chaos that surrounds me daily. Let Your presence arrest me as I immerse myself in Your love. Amen.…

Elevate Your Day with Andi and Brian Hale

1
A Legacy of Faith 4:43

منذ 11 يومًا4:43

4:43

A Legacy of Faith From Rahab, How God Uses the Unlikely on YouVersion Rahab’s faith didn’t just transform her own life. Her faith created a ripple effect that shaped generations. She is one of only two women mentioned in Hebrews 11, often called the “Hall of Faith,” where she is celebrated for her bold trust in God. The writer of Hebrews highlights Rahab’s faith as the reason for her salvation, stating, “ By faith the prostitute Rahab, because she welcomed the spies, was not killed with those who were disobedient ” (Hebrews 11:31). James also commends Rahab, using her as an example of how true faith is demonstrated through action: “ In the same way, was not even Rahab the prostitute considered righteous for what she did when she gave lodging to the spies and sent them off in a different direction? ” (James 2:25). Yet Rahab’s legacy goes far beyond these recognitions. Her faith and obedience not only changed the course of her own life but also influenced the trajectory of history. Through her family line came King David, one of the most pivotal figures in Israel’s history, and, ultimately, Jesus Christ, the Savior of the world (Matthew 1:5–6). Her decision to trust God in a moment of uncertainty didn’t just save her life. Her decision became part of God’s plan for redemption, affecting countless lives for eternity. This is the power of a life surrendered to God. When we place our faith in Him and walk in obedience, our actions can have an eternal impact, far beyond what we can see. Rahab’s story reminds us that leaving a legacy of faith doesn’t require perfection—it requires trust. God doesn’t use us because of our credentials or spotless records; He uses us because of our willingness to say yes to Him. Let each generation tell its children of your mighty acts; let them proclaim your power. – Psalms 145:4 NLT Her life challenges us to consider the legacy we are building. Are we living in a way that points others to God’s grace and power? Are we stepping out in faith, even when it’s uncomfortable or risky, so that others can see His work in our lives? Legacy isn’t about what we leave behind for others to admire; it’s about the spiritual inheritance we pass on and a testimony of God’s goodness and faithfulness that inspires others to trust Him. Rahab’s story also reminds us that no matter where we come from, what we’ve done, or how unqualified we feel, God can use us to inspire faith in others. Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come. – 2 Corinthians 5:17 ESV Her past didn’t disqualify her; in fact, it became part of her testimony to God’s redeeming grace. Like Rahab, your obedience today can impact generations to come. It starts with one act of trust and is a step of faith that says, “God, I believe You can use me.”…

Elevate Your Day with Andi and Brian Hale

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From Outsider to Family 4:50

منذ 12 يومًا4:50

4:50

Elevate Your Day with Andi and Brian Hale

1
The Scarlet Cord of Redemption 4:37

منذ 13 يومًا4:37

4:37

The Scarlet Cord of Redemption From Rahab, How God Uses the Unlikely on YouVersion Then, since Rahab’s house was built into the town wall, she let them down by a rope through the window. “Escape to the hill country,” she told them. “Hide there for three days from the men searching for you. Then, when they have returned, you can go on your way.” Before they left, the men told her, “We will be bound by the oath we have taken only if you follow these instructions. When we come into the land, you must leave this scarlet rope hanging from the window through which you let us down. And all your family members—your father, mother, brothers, and all your relatives—must be here inside the house. If they go out into the street and are killed, it will not be our fault. But if anyone lays a hand on people inside this house, we will accept the responsibility for their death. If you betray us, however, we are not bound by this oath in any way. I accept your terms,” she replied. And she sent them on their way, leaving the scarlet rope hanging from the window. - Joshua 2:15-21 NLT The scarlet cord hanging from Rahab’s window was more than just a marker for the Israelites. The hanging cord was a visible declaration of her faith and a symbol of redemption. By placing it in her window, Rahab put her trust in God’s promise to save her and her family from destruction, even as Jericho faced judgment. This scarlet cord draws a beautiful parallel to the blood of Jesus, shed for the redemption of all who believe. Just as the Israelites were spared during the first Passover by marking their homes with the blood of the lamb (Exodus 12:13), Rahab’s home was marked by the scarlet cord. And just as Rahab’s family found refuge under the symbol of her faith, we find refuge in the sacrifice of Christ. Ephesians 1:7 reminds us, “In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of His grace.” Rahab’s story is a testament to God’s grace. Despite her past, she was not only saved but also welcomed into the people of Israel and became part of the lineage of Jesus (Matthew 1:5). This shows us that redemption is not limited to the “qualified” or the “deserving.” Romans 3:23–24 assures us, “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified freely by His grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.” If you’ve ever felt like your sins are too great or your past is too messy for God to redeem, Rahab’s story is a reminder that His grace is greater. God doesn’t just forgive. God restores, transforms, and uses us for His purposes. As 2 Corinthians 5:17 says, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” So now there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus. - Romans 8:1 NLT The scarlet cord invites us to see redemption as a work of God’s grace, not our own efforts. Just as Rahab trusted in God’s promises, we too must trust that Jesus’ sacrifice is enough to cover our sins, mark us as His, and draw us into His story of salvation.…

Elevate Your Day with Andi and Brian Hale

1
Bold Faith In Action 6:54

منذ 14 يومًا6:54

6:54

Bold Faith in Action From Rahab, How God Uses the Unlikely on YouVersion Before the spies went to sleep that night, Rahab went up on the roof to talk with them. “I know the Lord has given you this land,” she told them. “We are all afraid of you. Everyone in the land is living in terror. For we have heard how the Lord made a dry path for you through the Red Sea when you left Egypt. And we know what you did to Sihon and Og, the two Amorite kings east of the Jordan River, whose people you completely destroyed. No wonder our hearts have melted in fear! No one has the courage to fight after hearing such things. For the Lord your God is the supreme God of the heavens above and the earth below. “Now swear to me by the Lord that you will be kind to me and my family since I have helped you. Give me some guarantee that when Jericho is conquered, you will let me live, along with my father and mother, my brothers and sisters, and all their families. We offer our own lives as a guarantee for your safety,” the men agreed. “If you don’t betray us, we will keep our promise and be kind to you when the Lord gives us the land.” – Joshua 2:8-14 NLT Have you ever faced a moment when stepping out in faith felt impossible because the risks seemed too great? That is exactly where Rahab found herself, a pivotal moment where fear and faith collided. She was forced to choose between the safety of the familiar and the uncertainty of trusting in a God she had only heard about. In Joshua 2, Rahab made a stunning declaration to the spies she had hidden: “I know that the Lord has given you this land.” Her words were not casual; they reflected a deep belief in the power and sovereignty of a God she had only heard about. Rahab’s faith wasn’t born from years of knowing or following God but from stories of His works. Her decision to hide the spies was not just an act of bravery; it was a step of faith in a God she trusted, even at great personal risk. By hiding the spies and asking for her family’s safety, Rahab risked her life and her future. She could have been executed for treason if she had been discovered. But instead of letting fear paralyze her, Rahab chose to trust God. Her courage was not the absence of fear but the decision to trust God in the face of uncertainty. Rahab’s story reminds us that faith is more than just believing in God. Faith is acting on God’s truth, even when the path ahead is unclear. It’s easy to say we trust God when the stakes are low, but true faith is revealed when we take action in situations where the risks are high, and the outcomes are unknown. And it is impossible to please God without faith. Anyone who wants to come to him must believe that God exists and that he rewards those who sincerely seek him. – Hebrews 11:6 NLT Rahab didn’t know how her story would end, but she believed in a God who could do the impossible. Her example challenges us to examine our own faith. Are we willing to trust God when the circumstances seem overwhelming? Are we willing to step out, even when we don’t have all the answers?…

Elevate Your Day with Andi and Brian Hale

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God Choosing The Unlikely 6:23

منذ 15 يومًا6:23

6:23

God Choosing the Unlikely From Rehab, How God Uses the Unlikely on YouVersion Then Joshua secretly sent out two spies from the Israelite camp at Acacia Grove. He instructed them, “Scout out the land on the other side of the Jordan River, especially around Jericho.” So the two men set out and came to the house of a prostitute named Rahab and stayed there that night. But someone told the king of Jericho, “Some Israelites have come here tonight to spy out the land.” So the king of Jericho sent orders to Rahab: “Bring out the men who have come into your house, for they have come here to spy out the whole land.” Rahab had hidden the two men, but she replied, “Yes, the men were here earlier, but I didn’t know where they were from. They left the town at dusk, as the gates were about to close. I don’t know where they went. If you hurry, you can probably catch up with them.” (Actually, she had taken them up to the roof and hidden them beneath bundles of flax she had laid out.) So the king’s men went looking for the spies along the road leading to the shallow crossings of the Jordan River. And as soon as the king’s men had left, the gate of Jericho was shut. – Joshua 2:1-7 NLT I often wondered if God could ever use someone like me. My past felt like a heavy chain, a constant reminder of my failures. Shame and regret weighed me down, and every mistake seemed to echo the same lie: You’re unworthy. You’re disqualified. You’re beyond redemption. I couldn’t imagine how a life like mine could ever have a place in God’s plan. Then one day, I came across the story of Rahab in Scripture. Her life may have been different from mine, but her story showed me a truth I desperately needed to hear: God’s grace is not limited by our past. Through Rahab, I began to understand that God doesn’t call the qualified. He redeems and uses those who are willing to trust Him. Rahab lived in the city of Jericho, a place marked for destruction. She was known as a harlot, someone society would have considered unworthy and disposable. By every worldly measure, Rahab was the last person anyone would expect God to use. Yet, God’s plan for her life far exceeded her reputation or her past. When the Israelite spies entered Jericho, Rahab made a choice that altered her destiny. She hid the spies and protected them from the king’s men, risking her life to do so. Why would she take such a bold risk? Rahab had heard the stories of the God of Israel: His power, His miracles, and His victories. These accounts stirred something in her heart, awakening a faith in the one true God she had never known. When the moment came, Rahab made a life-changing decision: she chose to align herself with the God of Israel and His people rather than the gods of her city. In doing so, she demonstrated a faith that went beyond words and into action. This faith not only set her apart but also positioned her for God to work through her in a remarkable way. “My thoughts are nothing like your thoughts,” says the Lord. “And my ways are far beyond anything you could imagine. For just as the heavens are higher than the earth, so my ways are higher than your ways and my thoughts higher than your thoughts. – Isaiah 55:8-9 NLT Rahab’s story reminds us of a profound truth: God doesn’t see us the way the world does. He doesn’t define us by our mistakes or label us by our failures. Instead, He looks at us through the lens of His grace, seeing our potential and calling us into His purpose. Remember, dear brothers and sisters, that few of you were wise in the world’s eyes or powerful or wealthy when God called you. Instead, God chose things the world considers foolish in order to shame those who think they are wise. And he chose things that are powerless to shame those who are powerful. God chose things despised by the world, things counted as nothing at all, and used them to bring to nothing what the world considers important. As a result, no one can ever boast in the presence of God. – 1 Corinthians 1:26-29 NLT Rahab’s life is proof that God delights in using the unlikely to accomplish His plans. He didn’t choose Rahab because she was perfect. He chose her because she was willing. Her faith marked the beginning of her transformation, not just in her own life but in her role in God’s greater story. Through her faith and obedience, Rahab became part of the lineage of Jesus Christ, a testament to the redemptive power of God’s grace. The Lord is close to the brokenhearted; he rescues those whose spirits are crushed. – Psalms 34:18 NLT No matter what labels you carry, no matter how heavy your baggage feels, Rahab’s story offers hope. God’s grace is bigger than your past, and His purpose is greater than your failures. Like Rahab, your faith can mark the beginning of a new chapter. It’s not about being perfect; it’s about trusting the God who takes broken lives and turns them into something beautiful for His glory.…

Elevate Your Day with Andi and Brian Hale

1
Growing A Legacy 3:13

منذ 18 يومًا3:13

3:13

GROWING A LEGACY From Lead Me by Matt Hammitt So let’s not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t give up. – Galatians 6:9 NLT Few things bring me more joy in life than when my marriage and family are healthy and thriving. Conversely, few things have brought me more pain than when my marriage and family have felt broken. Meeting the needs of the ones you care for isn’t a one and done deal. You have to tend to their needs daily, with persistence, love, and devotion. When needs and feelings aren’t properly addressed, and therefore go unmet, it’s fertile ground for resentment, contempt, and bitterness. That ugly mess of relational weeds can choke out the beauty in your garden of love. Have you ever seen a garden that was once lush with healthy plants and flowers become overgrown by weeds? As you passed the struggling trees, overgrown bushes, and wilted flowers, you might have asked, “Where is the gardener?” Well, in the garden of love and marriage, the gardener is you. As a gardener, you have choice. You can be mindful of the weeds in your garden. Or, you can let the weeds grow, only to later spend countless amounts of time and energy fighting to pull their roots from the ground, hoping to restore the beauty of what was overtaken while you turned your head away from the problem. Remember, in the face of neglect, what’s beautiful dies and what’s ugly thrives. It’s your call to pull, plant, and water. Trust God with the rest. Even though he calls us to work with him, only he can make the best things grow. Consider: What do you want the garden of your marriage and family to look like in a year, ten years, fifty years from now? Take a look at your garden now. What needs to go? What needs to grow?…

Elevate Your Day with Andi and Brian Hale

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Fight Yourself First 4:09

منذ 18 يومًا4:09

4:09

FIGHT YOURSELF FIRST From Lead Me by Matt Hammitt Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves. Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too. – Philippians 2:3-4 NLT Learning how to tend to Sarah’s emotional needs has been one of the most difficult marital lessons for me. I’m still learning how to be patient with her feelings in those little, day-to-day confrontations, especially when I can’t relate to where she’s coming from. There is little I’ve worked harder at, and failed more at, than putting her need to be heard before my desire to move on. Recently, Sarah addressed this weakness in front of our friends. It stung me, because it’s something I take seriously. I’ve strived to improve on it with God’s help. That night, I couldn’t sleep. I stewed over what Sarah had said. I started to feel angry and I laid awake wondering if I should address my feelings with her. I worried about whether or not she would understand my feelings. Would she be able to empathize even after I struggled to do the same for her? That’s when I went inward with a simple question, “Is it true?” I mean, was it true what she said about me, that I had a hard time responding appropriately when she was hurt? Do the times I’ve gotten it right void the pain of when I’ve gotten it wrong? Does the fact that I’m changing mean that her struggle is no longer real? I started to see some things more clearly, and my anger began to fade into humility. Sarah had simply spoken truth about our relationship during a vulnerable conversation with trusted friends. I know Sarah’s heart, and I know her intent wasn’t malicious. She just wanted to move closer to me through honest communication. I started to realize that maybe it wasn’t Sarah, but the truth that had bothered me. Maybe I wanted to shoot the messenger because I couldn’t face the message. I had to put aside my own interests, embrace her desire to be heard, and receive what she needed me to hear. I had to fight my impulses and inner dialogue first, so love could win the war. Consider: What is a message your spouse has tried to communicate to you? Can you see beyond the messenger to find the heart of the message? That message, is it true? If so, how will you receive it?…

Elevate Your Day with Andi and Brian Hale

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Plans 4:10

منذ 18 يومًا4:10

4:10

PLANS From Lead Me by Matt Hammitt Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take. – Proverbs 3:5-6 NLT People may be pure in their own eyes, but the Lord examines their motives. Commit your actions to the Lord, and your plans will succeed. – Proverbs 16:2-3 NLT It takes a plan to make it through school, to get a job, to keep your job, to start a business, to get married, to buy a home, to take a vacation, to save for your future, to win a game and to win a war. (Big breath) It even takes to plan to be buried after you die. Some plans are as simple as keeping your calendar and showing up where you need to be. While other plans involve intricate details with heart and soul behind them. Some plans fail and some succeed. Years ago, I sat with my friend, Todd, at the beginning of a very difficult divorce. My heart hurt for him as he expressed the pain he felt over his wife choosing to leave. On top of it all, he was battling health issues, coping with the sorrow of his children, and trying to manage a major crisis at work. As we talked, Todd described the daily responsibilities of his job. It became clear how much of his time was consumed by crisis management away from home, and as he continued to pour out his heart, something hit me. My friend had a plan for everything, except for the most important things, like his marriage and family. As I listened, I saw my own reflection in his story. I had failed to give my family the same intentionality as I had given my work. God has good plans for us, for our marriage, and our family. He’s calling us to walk in harmony with these plans. Often times, our own design and desires blind us to where God is leading us. When we fail to commit our work to the Lord and commit to seeking his voice, we’re at risk of losing that which is most important in our lives.…

Elevate Your Day with Andi and Brian Hale

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Good Intentions 4:11

منذ 21 يومًا4:11

4:11

GOOD INTENTIONS From Lead Me by Matt Hammitt What good is it, dear brothers and sisters, if you say you have faith but don’t show it by your actions? Can that kind of faith save anyone? Suppose you see a brother or sister who has no food or clothing, and you say, “Good-bye and have a good day; stay warm and eat well”—but then you don’t give that person any food or clothing. What good does that do? – James 2:14-16 NLT Years ago, I bought this small, octagon-shaped ball I saw at the store. It was black with yellow lettering on each of its flat surfaces. 20 pushups, 30 sit ups, 15 burpees, water break, etc. You know, toss it on the ground and do whatever exercise it tells you to do. On the way home, it rolled out of a grocery bag and into the back seat of my car. Two months later, it was still there. Every time I looked at it, I saw 20 pushups. I never dropped to the floor, but I did those pushups in my mind, every day. I was doing great. The workout ball made its way from the car and into my house. There it was, speaking to me, 30 sit ups. I never dropped to the floor, but I did those sit ups in my mind, every day. I was feeling good about myself. Ok, let’s get real. Buying that ball didn’t make me stronger or more in shape, though it could’ve if I had used it for its intended purpose. Owning it made me feel better about myself just for keeping it around. I was getting ripped on good intentions, but no one around me could see the difference. So you see, faith by itself isn’t enough. Unless it produces good deeds, it is dead and useless. Now someone may argue, “Some people have faith; others have good deeds.” But I say, “How can you show me your faith if you don’t have good deeds? I will show you my faith by my good deeds.” You say you have faith, for you believe that there is one God. Good for you! Even the demons believe this, and they tremble in terror. – James 2:17-19 NLT Maybe you see your Bible sitting there, and you imagine yourself opening it more. Maybe you think about how you’re going to spend more time investing in your family, or others. Envisioning a more spiritually disciplined version of yourself makes you feel good. Have you allowed your good intentions, imaginations and inner dialogue to define who you believe you are? Unfortunately, the people you’re called to lead can’t read your mind, desires or intentions. The only thing that speaks love to them is real action and real change. Good intentions are worthless until they become actions. Consider: Identify some good intentions in yourself that you’ve been treating like realities. What excuses are keeping your intentions from becoming reality?…

Elevate Your Day with Andi and Brian Hale

1
Who You're Called To Be 4:11

منذ 22 يومًا4:11

4:11

WHO YOU’RE CALLED TO BE From Lead Me by Matt Hammitt But don’t just listen to God’s word. You must do what it says. Otherwise, you are only fooling yourselves. For if you listen to the word and don’t obey, it is like glancing at your face in a mirror. You see yourself, walk away, and forget what you look like. But if you look carefully into the perfect law that sets you free, and if you do what it says and don’t forget what you heard, then God will bless you for doing it. – James 1:22-25 NLT I’ll never forget the weight behind my wife’s words leading up to one of the most important conversations of my life. “We need to talk.” No one ever wants to hear those words, myself included. They can lead to hard conversations. Hard, yet necessary. Sarah expressed her desire for me to be more present, more understanding, more in touch with my own fragile heart and emotions. Ultimately, she needed me to find the strength and confidence to lead her and our family well. I knew in that moment that I couldn’t do it unless God was leading me each step of the way. I had been that double-minded man that James wrote about, swayed back and forth by the waves of the sea, allowing myself to be led by the wrong voices and influenced by my own shifting emotions. There was a clear way forward, but first, I had to accept my need for change. It goes without saying that our marriage didn’t change overnight. But one small step at a time, with God’s leading hand, Sarah and I have made incredible strides. You can too. Moving forward requires a hard look at yourself in the mirror. If you’re willing to see yourself clearly, you’ll see some things that need to change. Only then can you move forward toward becoming who God has called you to be. Over the course of the next five days, I’ll share some simple biblical and practical lessons that are helping me along the way. If you’re willing to look inward, then together, with God’s help, we can take some important steps toward healthier relationships. Consider: No human is perfect. Name one of your imperfections that negatively impacts your marriage and family. Name two or three, if you dare. Have you had one of those “we need to talk” conversations? What did you hear? What did you say? Did it result in any change?…

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Standup Comedy "Your Host and MC"

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