Godliness is not an overnight pursuit. Paul makes it clear to Timothy that it will take some effort. To continue to pursue godliness throughout your life will take real endurance, but it is worth persevering to the end and hearing, “Well done, good and faithful servant.”

Godliness is not an individual project but a family pursuit, and that means God uses the relational life of the church for our growth. We really do need each other!

Welcome to Run With Horses! My name is Norman and my goal is to help you thrive as a follower of Jesus. The spiritual life is simple in many ways, but potentially the most difficult part of your life. God invites you to grow, to live intentionally and to join in His mission. It’s very cool that we can do that together! Thank you for joining me today! “If you’re new here, you can check out past episodes at runwithhorses.net. As always, I appreciate your feedback, questions, and reviews!”

Pursuing godliness is really about doing the things that please God. Fortunately for us, we have a perfect example of what that kind of life looks like in the life of Jesus.

Welcome to Run With Horses! My name is Norman and my goal is to help you thrive as a follower of Jesus. The spiritual life is simple in many ways, but potentially the most difficult part of your life. God invites you to grow, to live intentionally and to join in His mission. It’s very cool that we can do that together! Thank you for joining me today! “If you’re new here, you can check out past episodes at runwithhorses.net. As always, I appreciate your feedback, questions, and reviews!”

In our pursuit of godliness, walking in the Spirit makes growth possible. It is by God’s presence and power at work in our lives that we are being sanctified day by day. But what does it mean to walk in the Spirit? That is the topic of today’s show!

Welcome to Run With Horses! My name is Norman and my goal is to help you thrive as a follower of Jesus. The spiritual life is simple in many ways, but potentially the most difficult part of your life. God invites you to grow, to live intentionally and to join in His mission. It’s very cool that we can do that together! Thank you for joining me today! “If you’re new here, you can check out past episodes at runwithhorses.net. As always, I appreciate your feedback, questions, and reviews!”

One thing all people have in common, whether they acknowledge it or not, is the ongoing struggle with sin. It’s a reality in the broken world we live in, sin taints everything. But another reality is that God is with us in this battle. In the big picture of pursuing godliness, pursuing holiness is near the heart of God.

If you are a follower of Jesus you want to know more about Him and His direction for your life. Good news! The Bible is a guide for all of life and as we pursue godliness, we need to know what it says and then put it into practice.

An important part of pursuing godliness is giving thanks in all circumstances. it’s Thanksgiving week so it’s a good time to review what it means to be thankful and how we can live it out, every day.

The Bible give us information about all we need to pursue godliness. It tells us who God is and what He is doing in the world as well as gives clear instrustions about what kind of life He wants us to live. Pursuing godliness is a process of getting to know God through His Word and living out what He says.

Prayer is one of the cornerstones of the Christian life. If you are serious about pursuing godliness, your prayer life is one area you will focus on. How does your prayer life relate to your spiritual growth? How can you grow IN your prayer life? Prayer is the focus of today’s show.

In our lives we are all pursuing something. Many things vie for our attention. But only one thing deserves all the energy we can give it. Paul calls it pursuing godliness. That’s the topic of today’s show.

PART 4 Preparing Lay Members for Pastoral Ministry

As a local body of followers of Jesus, we must embrace the call to be disciple makers on His mission. That includes equipping members for the leadership roles that we need locally as well as to proclaim the name of Jesus in the next town. We need to raise up shepherds in the church.

We are in a crisis in many of our churches. There is no pastor and no pastor on the way. What does that mean for the church? Is there a path forward toward health and growth? I believe so, and I believe that at least part of the answer is already in our church. Today we are continuing to look at raising up shepherds from within the church.

The Probelm • Median age of U.S. Christians has risen (median Christian age ~54), which corresponds with an older pastoral workforce.  • Surveys show large shares of pastors have seriously considered quitting in recent years (Barna reported ~33–40% had considered quitting in the early 2020s). Covid had a huge impact and pointed out some problems. • Research finds only a small percent (about ~1% per year) actually permanently leave pastoral ministry for reasons other than retirement, but the pipeline into pastoral roles is thin and many serve bivocationally. (Lifeway and other research summarize low annual exit rates but continued recruitment shortfalls.)  • Many groups lose members (reported membership declines in recent annual reports), which affects church budgets and pastoral hiring. 

(24:00) Our churches are great at teaching Biblical truth. But sometimes I wonder if we do as well at equipping people for the work of teh ministry. That’s topic of today’s show!

Welcome to Run With Horses! My name is Norman and my goal is to help you thrive as a follower of Jesus. The spiritual life is simple in many ways, but potentially the most difficult part of your life. God invites you to grow, to live intentionally and to join in His mission. It’s very cool that we can do that together! Thank you for joining me today! “If you’re new here, you can check out past episodes at runwithhorses.net. As always, I appreciate your feedback, questions, and reviews!”

*(23:00 – 0:00) * PART 1 Run With Horses is on the radio! If you are enjoying Run With Horses, would you let someone know? Contact the radio station or leave a review on your favorite app. We want to hear from you!

Teaching and Equipping

I. Introduction • Many churches excel at teaching but struggle with equipping. The result is knowledge without action, or action without foundation. • How do teaching and equipping differ, and how should they work together in the life of the church?

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II. Defining the Terms

A. Teaching • Imparting knowledge, doctrine, and biblical truth. • Scripture:

B. Equipping • Preparing believers with tools, skills, and confidence to serve and live out their faith.

VI. The Role of Leaders and Members

A. Leaders’ Responsibility • To both teach and equip. • 1 Timothy 4:11–12 – “These things command and teach. Let no one despise your youth, but be an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity.”

B. Members’ Responsibility • To move from being hearers to active participants in ministry. • Hebrews 10:24–25 – “And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching.”

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VII. Practical Challenges • Overemphasis on knowledge can create spiritual spectators. • Overemphasis on activity without grounding leads to burnout or error. • Baptist churches must intentionally integrate both for effective discipleship.

⸻ Teaching informs; equipping transforms. Teaching fills the mind; equipping activates the hands and heart. Both are necessary for a healthy, missional church.

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Teaching Transfers Information; Equipping Shapes People • Teaching is about what you know. Equipping is about who you become and what you do. • Example: The Pharisees were excellent teachers of the Law, but they failed to equip people to live it (Matthew 23:3).

👉 Knowledge is relatively easy to pass on in a classroom; transformation requires walking with people in real life.

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Equipping Requires Application and Practice • Teaching can stop at hearing; equipping demands doing. • James 1:22 – “But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.” • Equipping means giving people opportunities to serve, make mistakes, and grow — which is harder than just lecturing.

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Equipping Requires Relational Investment • Teaching can happen from a pulpit; equipping usually happens through discipleship, mentoring, and modeling. • 2 Timothy 2:2 – Paul didn’t just teach Timothy; he entrusted him with responsibility to teach others. • This relational work is time-consuming and often messy.

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Equipping Challenges Comfort Zones • Many believers are comfortable learning but hesitant to step into ministry. • Ephesians 4:12 – equipping means pushing saints into the work of ministry. • That’s more difficult than teaching because it involves confronting fear, apathy, or resistance.

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Equipping Takes Patience and Perseverance • Teaching can produce quick results (“I learned a new fact”). • Equipping is long-term, like training an athlete or raising a child. • Hebrews 5:14 – “But solid food belongs to those who are of full age, that is, those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.” • Growth through use (practice) is much slower and harder.

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Equipping Requires Empowering, Not Controlling • Teaching can be one-directional: “Here’s what the Bible says.” • Equipping releases people to serve, which means leaders must trust God’s Spirit in them. • John 14:12 – Jesus prepared His disciples to do “greater works” than He did, even though that meant letting go of control. • Many leaders find that harder than teaching.

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Teaching is easier because it focuses on knowledge transfer. Equipping is harder because it demands life-on-life investment, patience, empowerment, and guiding people into action — but it is also what produces real growth, maturity, and multiplication in the church.

(1:00) Are focused more on teaching or equipping? How can you free up some time so you have margin in your life? Disciple making takes time. Equipping takes time. But helping to prepare others for service is always worth the effort!

– “Thank you for listening today! -If you enjoyed the show you can listen to all the past shows wherever you listen to podcasts. A good place to start is at runwithhorses.net. You can also write me at norman@runwithhorses.net or leave a comment on the Run With Horses Podcast facebook page. Don’t be discouraged by the challenges you face. Keep your eyes on Jesus and embrace the opportunity to grow through the trial. Until next time, keep your eyes on Jesus and never stop running." (00:00)

**(24:00)** The questions you ask often determine the kinds of answers you get. How do our questions impact our ability to make disciples, develop leaders and plant new churches? That’s the topic of today’s show!

Welcome to Run With Horses! My name is Norman and my goal is to help you thrive as a follower of Jesus. The spiritual life is simple in many ways, but potentially the most difficult part of your life. God invites you to grow, to live intentionally and to join in His mission. It’s very cool that we can do that together! Thank you for joining me today! “If you’re new here, you can check out past episodes at runwithhorses.net. As always, I appreciate your feedback, questions, and reviews!”

**(23:00 – 0:00)* *  PART 1 Run With Horses is on the radio! If you are enjoying Run With Horses, would you let someone know? Contact the radio station or leave a review on your favorite app. We want to hear from you!

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Multiplication Thinking

Part 1: The Power of the Questions We Ask (Vision & Theology)

Theme: Questions reveal what we believe about God’s mission, our role, and the future. ** 1. Why Questions Matter **  Questions expose vision (or the lack of it) Show how “addition” questions limit scope vs. “multiplication” questions which expand possibilities.  Example: “How many people can I gather?” (Level 2 thinking) vs. “How many disciple-makers can I release?” (Level 4-5 thinking). .The Five Levels of Church Mutiplication 1.subtraction 2. Plateau 3.addition 4. Reproducing 5. Multiplication . *** 2. The Five Levels of Leadership (from Hero Maker) ***  • Level 1: I count (thinking addition, personal results).  • Level 2: I count what I do (improving programs).  • Level 3: I count what we do together (team success).  • Level 4: I count leaders I raise up (reproduction).  • Level 5: I count leaders who multiply leaders (movement/multiplication).  • Use examples of how each level asks progressively bigger questions.

*** 3. Biblical and Theological Foundation *** .  • Jesus modeled multiplication: He invested in 12 → sent 72 → great commission to all.  • Paul’s instruction to Timothy: “Entrust to reliable people who will also be qualified to teach others” (2 Tim. 2:2).  • The kingdom grows like a seed — designed for multiplication, not maintenance (parable of the mustard seed, yeast in the dough).

*** 4. Why Maintenance Mindset is Dangerous ***  • It keeps leaders in survival mode (protecting what is).  • It makes ministries inward-focused rather than kingdom-focused.  • Ultimately, it limits generational impact.

***  5. Challenge: ***  • What questions are you currently asking in your ministry?  • Are they addition questions or multiplication questions?  • (Good interactive moment: invite participants to write down their top 2 questions they ask about ministry and assess what “level” they reflect.)

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**(00:00) END PART 1** **(27:00 – 5:00) BEGIN PART 2*

Part 2: Asking Multiplication Questions

 Leaders at every level can shift from addition to multiplication by the questions they ask. *** 1. Shifting the Question at Every Level of Leadership*** .  • Sunday school teacher: Instead of “How many kids will show up?” ask “How many kids can I equip to share their faith?”  • Deacon/volunteer leader: Instead of “How do I fill this need?” ask “Who can I invite and empower to step into leadership?”  • Pastor: Instead of “How do we grow this church?” ask “How do we plant churches and send leaders?”  • Church planter: Instead of “How do I build this church strong?” ask “How do I build this to multiply from the start?”

*** 2. Practical Multiplication Questions to Introduce***  • Who am I discipling right now?  • Who could they disciple next?  • What leaders am I raising up?  • Who in my ministry could replace me if I left tomorrow?  • What’s stopping me from giving more away?

*** 3. Tools & Practices to Reinforce Multiplication Thinking***  • Permission-giving: Start saying “You can do this” more often.  • Scorecards: Redefine success — not just how many are attending, but how many are multiplying.  • Apprenticing model: Always have someone learning beside you.

*** 4. Case Studies / Stories***  • Share short stories of multiplication in action (a teacher who trained kids to lead, a church that planted another church, a small group that reproduced).  • Highlight that multiplication is possible at every level, not just at the top.

*** 5. Closing Challenge & Vision Casting***  • Ask participants: “If every leader here multiplied themselves once in the next 2 years, what would happen in our church and community?”  • Cast vision for generational leadership: thinking in terms of “spiritual grandchildren.”  • Call them to choose one multiplication question they’ll start asking this week.

*** 6. Sample Multiplication vs. Maintenance Questions***

Sunday School Teachers  • Maintenance: How many kids will show up this week?  • Multiplication: Which kids can I disciple so they can share their faith with others?  • Multiplication: Who could I apprentice as a future teacher?

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Deacons  • Maintenance: How do we meet the needs of our members better?  • Multiplication: Who else can we raise up to serve so more people are empowered?  • Multiplication: How do we multiply servant leaders, not just serve needs?

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Sound Booth / Tech Team  • Maintenance: How do I make sure the sound and slides run smoothly this Sunday?  • Multiplication: Who can I train so they can run sound in the future?  • Multiplication: How do we multiply tech leaders so new services, campuses, or ministries can launch equipped?

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Worship Leaders  • Maintenance: How do we sound better this Sunday?  • Multiplication: Who in the band or congregation can I mentor to lead worship in the future?  • Multiplication: How do we multiply worship leaders so that every group, gathering, or church plant has someone to lead?

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Pastors  • Maintenance: How do we grow this church bigger?  • Multiplication: How do we raise up pastors and church planters from within?  • Multiplication: Who are my “Timothys” that I’m intentionally training to multiply leaders?

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Church Planters  • Maintenance: How do I make this church strong and healthy?  • Multiplication: How do I plant in such a way that this church will plant another church within 3 years?  • Multiplication: How do I build a culture of sending from the very beginning?

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General “Every Leader” Questions  • Maintenance: How do I succeed in my role?  • Multiplication: Who am I apprenticing to take my place?  • Multiplication: Who are my spiritual grandchildren — the people being discipled by those I discipled?

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***  7. Progression of Questions: From Addition to Multiplication***

Level 1: I Count (self-focused)  • How am I doing?  • Did I do a good job teaching / leading / serving?  • Did people like what I did today?

(Example: A sound booth worker asks, “Did I get the slides right?”)

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Level 2: I Count What I Do (program-focused)  • How many people showed up to my class, service, or ministry?  • How can I make this better for those who attend?  • Did the event/service/program run smoothly?

(Example: A Sunday school teacher asks, “How many kids are in my class this week?”)

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Level 3: I Count What We Do Together (team-focused)  • How is our team doing?  • How can we grow this ministry bigger or better together?  • How can we serve more people as a team?

(Example: A deacon asks, “How can our deacon team meet more needs this year?”)

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Level 4: I Count Leaders I Raise Up (reproduction-focused)  • Who am I apprenticing right now?  • Who could I trust to lead if I wasn’t here?  • How can I release more people into ministry and leadership?

(Example: A worship leader asks, “Who in the band can I mentor to lead a worship set?”)

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Level 5: I Count Leaders Who Multiply Leaders (movement-focused)  • Who are my spiritual grandchildren — the leaders raised up by the leaders I’ve discipled?  • How do we create a culture where leaders naturally multiply leaders?  • How can we measure success by kingdom expansion, not just local growth?

(Example: A pastor asks, “Who are the church planters being trained by the leaders I’ve already raised up?”)

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✅ Progression Summary (for a slide or handout):  • Level 1–2 questions: focus on me and my ministry.  • Level 3 questions: focus on our ministry team.  • Level 4 questions: focus on leaders I raise.  • Level 5 questions: focus on leaders who raise leaders.

**(1:00)**  What kinds of questions are you asking? Do your answers move you toward reproduction and multiplication or do they keep you stuck in the status quo? I know what kind of questions I want to be asking!

– “Thank you for listening today!  -If you enjoyed the show you can listen to all the past shows wherever you listen to podcasts. A good place to start is at runwithhorses.net. You can also write me at norman@runwithhorses.net or leave a comment on the Run With Horses Podcast facebook page. Don’t be discouraged by the challenges you face. Keep your eyes on Jesus and embrace the opportunity to grow through the trial. Until next time, keep your eyes on Jesus and never stop running." **(00:00)**

Barriers to Disciple-Making

Part 1: Why These Things Are a Problem

1. Busyness (  • Define it: Activity without intentionality.  • Luke 10:41–42: 2. Apathy  • A lack of concern for spiritual needs.  • Revelation 3:15–16:

3. Lack of Discipline  • Inconsistent rhythms of prayer, Word, and mission.  • 1 Corinthians 9:27 (:   Part 2: What We Can Do About It

1. Countering Busyness with Margin  • Ephesians 5:15–16:

2. Countering Apathy with Love and Prayer  • Matthew 9:37–38:   3. Countering Lack of Discipline with Spiritual Good Habits  • Luke 9:23 :  

**(24:00)** Pastor’s wives are often a forgotten link in a healthy church. What can you do to support your pastor’s wife in her role? That’s the topic of today’s show.

Welcome to Run With Horses! My name is Norman and my goal is to help you thrive as a follower of Jesus. The spiritual life is simple in many ways, but potentially the most difficult part of your life. God invites you to grow, to live intentionally and to join in His mission. It’s very cool that we can do that together! Thank you for joining me today! “If you’re new here, you can check out past episodes at runwithhorses.net. As always, I appreciate your feedback, questions, and reviews!”

**(23:00 – 0:00)* *  PART 1

Following Jesus is a Journey

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Pilgrimage, marathon, wilderness journey, The Pilgrim’s Progress.  • spiritual growth: Ongoing transformation into Christ’s likeness (Romans 8:29).  • Growth is neither instantaneous nor stagnant; it is a progressive walk empowered by the Spirit.  • Our Goal: Equip disciple makers to understand, model, and guide others on this journey.

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*1 Spiritual Growth is Progressive, Not Instantaneous  • Growth is lifelong; sanctification happens progressively as believers are conformed to Christ.  • Conversion is the starting line, not the finish line.  • Philippians 1:6 – “Being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ.”  • 2 Corinthians 3:18 – “But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as by the Spirit of the Lord.”  • Colossians 2:6-7 – “As you therefore have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him, rooted and built up in Him and established in the faith, as you have been taught, abounding in it with thanksgiving.”

Key • God initiates growth, but we must remain rooted and allow Him to complete the work.

Applications for Disciple Makers  • Help new believers understand growth takes time—avoid unrealistic expectations.  • Celebrate progress, not perfection.  • Encourage consistent abiding rather than instant change.  * Be obedient in the little things each day, it adds up.

Illustrations  • Seed to tree imagery (Mark 4:28).  • Personal testimony of gradual transformation.  * Bike Ride across Iowa _ RAGBRAI ⸻

*2: Expect Seasons of Slow Growth and Struggle  • Growth is not linear; dry seasons and struggles are part of God’s process.  • Waiting and hardship often deepen roots unseen.  • Ecclesiastes 3:1 – “To everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven.”  • Galatians 6:9 – “And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.”

**(24:00)** We are still talking about keeping our eyes on the target that Jesus has set before us. To be ambassadors for Christ on the mission of reconciliation, making disciples of the nations. Sound like a big job? Thankfully we are in this together and the Holy Spirit is doing His work in and through us.

Welcome to Run With Horses! My name is Norman and my goal is to help you thrive as a follower of Jesus. The spiritual life is simple in many ways, but potentially the most difficult part of your life. God invites you to grow, to live intentionally and to join in His mission. It’s very cool that we can do that together! Thank you for joining me today! “If you’re new here, you can check out past episodes at runwithhorses.net. As always, I appreciate your feedback, questions, and reviews!”

**(23:00 – 0:00)* *  PART 1

The Biblical Mandate  • Matthew 28:18-20 – Jesus commands us to make disciples of all nations.  • Key Question: Why does the church exist?  • Not just for programs, services, or buildings—It exist as the body of Jesus to Cary out his mission of reconciliation in the world, practically, for disciple-making.  • Every believer is called to participate (not just pastors).

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.1 Clarify the Win for the Team

Question: What does success look like for our church?  • Colossians 1:28-29 – “Present everyone mature in Christ.”  • Ephesians 4:11-13 – Equip saints until maturity and unity in faith.  • Goals:  • Define “disciple” (follower of Jesus growing in obedience, reproducing). Everyone needs to know the goal of Christ-likeness and have some idea of the path that leads there.  • Create a shared vision and language (everyone knows what the goal is). It is a team effort, we need each other and simple, clear communication is important.  • Success = transformed lives, not just attendance numbers.

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.2 Give Them Tools for the Win

How do we equip every believer to evangelize and disciple?  • 2 Timothy 3:16-17 – Scripture equips believers for every good work.  • Ephesians 4:12 – Leaders equip saints for ministry.  • Acts 1:8 – Empowered by the Spirit to witness.  • Goals:  • Provide simple gospel tools (testimony, “3 Circles,” Romans Road, DBS).  • Train in basic disciple habits (prayer, Bible, fellowship, serving).  • Help members discover spiritual gifts (Romans 12; 1 Corinthians 12).

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.3 Radical Clarity About Mission

How do we keep the vision in front of us?  • Habakkuk 2:2 – “Write the vision; make it plain.”  • John 20:21 – “As the Father has sent me, I send you.”  • Matthew 5:13-16 – Salt and light in the world.  • Goals:  • Constantly repeat the mission (sermons, meetings, ministries).  • Celebrate wins (testimonies, baptisms, gospel impact stories).  • Evaluate ministries: Does this move us toward Christ-likeness and help us make disciples?

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.4 Create Systems that Self-Correct and stay on task

How do we design processes that keep us on mission?  • Acts 6:1-7 – Church creates structure to meet needs and continue growth.  • 1 Corinthians 14:40 – “Do all things decently and in order.”  • Goals:  • Build reproducible models (small groups, one-on-one mentorship).  • Review regularly and adjust to stay on mission.  • Systems should serve people, not the other way around.

**(24:00)**  Are we winning? As a church? Personally? How are we doing and how do we know how we’re doing?  If we chase the wrong goal and reach it, what have we accomplished? This is the topic of today’s show!

Welcome to Run With Horses! My name is Norman and my goal is to help you thrive as a follower of Jesus. The spiritual life is simple in many ways, but potentially the most difficult part of your life. God invites you to grow, to live intentionally and to join in His mission. It’s very cool that we can do that together! Thank you for joining me today! “If you’re new here, you can check out past episodes at runwithhorses.net. As always, I appreciate your feedback, questions, and reviews!”

**(23:00 – 0:00)* *  PART 1 Josh Jones - Bridgewater Church. GARBC Conference 2025 Paul gave up his rights, privileges and preferences for the sake of the gospel. He had a clear goal and he sacrificed to reach it.

1 Cor. 9:19 - For though I am free from all men, I have made myself a servant to all, that I might win the more; 20 and to the Jews I became as a Jew, that I might win Jews; to those who are under the law, as under the law, that I might win those who are under the law; 21 to those who are without law, as without law (not being without law toward God, but under law toward Christ), that I might win those who are without law; 22 to the weak I became as weak, that I might win the weak. I have become all things to all men, that I might by all means save some. 23 Now this I do for the gospel’s sake, that I may be partaker of it with you.

V. 24 Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may obtain it. 25 And everyone who competes for the prize is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a perishable crown, but we for an imperishable crown. 26 Therefore I run thus: not with uncertainty. Thus I fight: not as one who beats the air. 27 But I discipline my body and bring it into subjection, lest, when I have preached to others, I myself should become disqualified.

Jesus alone has the right to define the win in the Christian life and for His church. The point is to do church well. We have created so many ministries that are just for us, within the church. It is movement without impact for the kingdom. We pay close attention to things that are not mission critical, and sometimes miss the mission altogether. How clear are we about our goal as individuals and as a local church?

Does it seem like we often just do church and hope people come?

How do we think about activity verses effectiveness? Do we consider effectiveness when planning what and how the church operates?

Our goal is not to gather a crowd but to grow the kingdom. How does that affect our decisions and activity as a church family? Equipping people for ministry outside the church walls. Encouraging them to engage in their relational networks.

In the NT church happened as a result of consistent engagement with communities resulting in the gospel being proclaimed and people trusting in Jesus. These people gathered to learn more about their Savior and His mission, to fellowship, to live life in a community with Jesus at the center and to pray with and for each other as they cared for each others needs. This special relationship kept them motivated and encouraged to reach out to others who didn’t yet know Jesus.

How is our church life today different? Should it be?

I believe we have a clear goal, given to us by Jesus. To be like HIm, following HIm as His disciples, and to intentionally engage in His mission of disciple making as we take the message of reconciliation out into every community so that every person will have repeated opportunities to respond to Jesus.  The result is new church families engaged in their relational networks, making disciples. 

We will fail trying, we cannot fail due to inactivity. The mission is too important to do nothing.

Don’t just run drills. Get in the game. The Great Commission defines the win. Be faithful to do your part knowing that God is doing His part.

How do you embrace the mission personally? Are you seeking to be equipped? Gospel. 1-1 disciple making - everyone can do it. Small group disciple making - most people can do it. Shepherd. Large group disciple making - a few can do it. Pastor, etc.

What is your next step?

**(1:00)**  Are you in the game? Don’t be afraid to fail, Jesus is building His church and he uses us to do it. Being faithfully engaged and on the mission keeps you available for Him to use as He builds His church and expands His kingdom. 

– “Thank you for listening today!  -If you enjoyed the show you can listen to all the past shows wherever you listen to podcasts. A good place to start is at runwithhorses.net. You can also write me at norman@runwithhorses.net or leave a comment on the Run With Horses Podcast facebook page. Let the people around you know that you see them this week. Make an effort to intentionally communicate the hope that you have, and Until next time, keep your eyes on Jesus and never stop running." **(00:00)**

1. Biblical Foundations for Communication

2. Communication as Discipleship  

3. Listening as a Spiritual Discipline

4. Bridging the Gap: Communicating Across Worldviews

5. Conflict, Correction, and Encouragement  

6. Digital Communication

7. One-on-One vs. Group Communication

8. Teaching vs. Talking

2. 1. Be Quick to Listen, Slow to Speak

 2. Speak the Truth in Love

 3. Use Open-Ended, Heart-Opening Questions

 4. Watch Your Nonverbal Communication

 5. Use Technology Intentionally

Doctrine Today - Biblical Humility

**(24:00)**

Relationships can be kind of fragile. Trust can be hard to build and easy to lose. Because our spiritual life depends so heavily on healthy relationships, it’s worth the effort to develop a strong foundation, Today we are thinking about Building Trust, Why and How.

Welcome to Run With Horses! My name is Norman and my goal is to help you thrive as a follower of Jesus. The spiritual life is simple in many ways, but potentially the most difficult part of your life. God invites you to grow, to live intentionally and to join in His mission. It’s very cool that we can do that together! Thank you for joining me today! “If you’re new here, you can check out past episodes at runwithhorses.net. As always, I appreciate your feedback, questions, and reviews!”

**(23:00 – 0:00)* *  PART 1 Run With Horses is on the radio! If you are enjoying Run With Horses, would you let someone know? Contact the radio station or leave a review on your favorite app. We want to hear from you!

⸻

1. Trust Begins with your Heart

2. Trust Is Built Through Love and Sacrificial Commitment

3. Trust Grows Through Consistent, Truthful Communication

4. Trust grows through Accountability and Transparency

5. Trust Must Be Repaired When Broken

6. Trust opens the door to Fruitful Discipleship

7. Our Trust in God Is the Foundation of Trust with Others

8. Trustworthiness Flows from Our Identity in Christ

9. We Are Trustworthy Because We Live for an Audience of One

**(00:00) END PART 1** **(27:00 – 5:00) BEGIN PART 2*

  Living It Out – Practical Encouragement for Building Trust

I. Start With Yourself: Build Trust by Being Trustworthy

II. Show Up and Stick Around: Trust Is Built Over Time

III. Be Vulnerable First: Lead with Transparency

IV. Practice Active Listening and Empathy

V. Keep Short Accounts: Repair Trust Quickly

**(5:00 – 1:00)**  Doctrine Today

The Holiness of God and Disciple-Makers

**(1:00)**  How are you doing at building strong healthy relationships? It takes work, but it’s worth it. Be a trustworthy friend and invest time in others. You will be better because of it.

– “Thank you for listening today!  -If you enjoyed the show you can listen to all the past shows wherever you listen to podcasts. A good place to start is at runwithhorses.net. You can also write me at norman@runwithhorses.net or leave a comment on the Run With Horses Podcast facebook page. Don’t be discouraged by the challenges you face. Keep your eyes on Jesus and embrace the opportunity to grow through the trial. Until next time, keep your eyes on Jesus and never stop running." **(00:00)**

**(24:00)**

At our core, most of us are selfish and really struggle to consider others and their spiritual life. But the call of a disciple of Jesus is a call to place a high value on everyone we meet. God challenges us to lay aside our own wants and desires and to really honor others. That’s the topic, and the challenge, for today.

Welcome to Run With Horses! My name is Norman and my goal is to help you thrive as a follower of Jesus. The spiritual life is simple in many ways, but potentially the most difficult part of your life. God invites you to grow, to live intentionally and to join in His mission. It’s very cool that we can do that together! Thank you for joining me today! “If you’re new here, you can check out past episodes at runwithhorses.net. As always, I appreciate your feedback, questions, and reviews!”

**(23:00 – 0:00)* *  PART 1 Run With Horses is on the radio! If you are enjoying Run With Horses, would you let someone know? Contact the radio station or leave a review on your favorite app. We want to hear from you!

Honoring Others: The Mark of A Disciple

A good, basic definition of honor—especially in a biblical and discipleship context—is:

Honor is the act of recognizing and treating others with the dignity, value, and respect they deserve as image-bearers of God, regardless of their status or behavior.

To honor someone means to esteem them highly, to give weight to their worth, and to treat them in a way that reflects God’s view of them—not just your personal opinion.

1. The Biblical Command to Honor Others

🧾 Key Verse:  • Romans 12:10 (NKJV) “Be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love, in honor giving preference to one another.”

Key Points:  • Honoring others is not optional; it’s a command tied to Christian love.  • “Giving preference” shows that honor involves humility and intentionality.

2. Honoring Begins with the Heart of Christ

🧾 Key Verses:  • Philippians 2:3–5 (NKJV) “Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself. Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others. Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus…”

Key Points:  • Jesus modeled humility by honoring those beneath Him socially and spiritually.  • To honor others is to adopt the mindset of Christ.

3. Honoring Others Reflects God’s Character

🧾 Key Verse:  • 1 Peter 2:17 (NKJV) “Honor all people. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the king.”

Key Points:  • Honor is rooted in the Imago Dei—all people are made in God’s image.  • Disciples honor others not because of their merit but because of God’s worth.

4. Honoring Authority—Even When It’s Hard

🧾 Key Verse:  • Romans 13:1–2 (NKJV) “Let every soul be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God.”

Key Points:  • Honoring others includes honoring civil and church authorities.  • It’s a test of obedience to God’s sovereignty.

5. Honor in the Home and Church

🧾 Honor in the Family:  • Ephesians 6:2 (NKJV) “Honor your father and mother,” which is the first commandment with promise…”

🧾 Honor in the Church:  • 1 Timothy 5:17 (NKJV) “Let the elders who rule well be counted worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in the word and doctrine.”

Key Points:  • Honor starts in the home and extends to the household of faith.  • Honoring leaders strengthens unity and gospel witness.

6. Honor and Disciple-Making

🧾 Key Verse:  • John 13:34–35 (NKJV) “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.”

Key Points:  • Honor is a visible expression of love.  • Honoring others is a form of discipleship and a witness to the world.

7. Reward for Honoring Others

🧾 Key Verse:  • Matthew 10:41–42 (NKJV) “He who receives a prophet in the name of a prophet shall receive a prophet’s reward… And whoever gives one of these little ones only a cup of cold water… shall by no means lose his reward.”

Key Points:  • God sees every act of honor, even the smallest.  • Honoring others aligns us with God’s economy of grace and reward.

**(00:00) END PART 1** **(27:00 – 5:00) BEGIN PART 2*

Excellent direction. Focusing on the practical side of honoring others will ground your lecture in real-life application, which is essential for disciple-makers.

Let’s divide the second half of your lecture into two practical sections:

⸻

🏛️ Section 1: Honoring People Within the Church

Honoring fellow believers builds unity, discipleship relationships, and displays Christ’s love within the Body.

✅ 1. Serve One Another Humbly

🧾 Galatians 5:13 (NKJV)

“For you, brethren, have been called to liberty; only do not use liberty as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.”

Application: Honor by taking initiative to serve others, especially when inconvenient.

⸻

✅ 2. Speak with Grace and Encouragement

🧾 Ephesians 4:29 (NKJV)

“Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers.”

Application: Honor others by building them up with your words, not tearing them down—even behind their back.

⸻

✅ 3. Celebrate Others’ Gifts and Contributions

🧾 1 Corinthians 12:24–25 (NKJV)

“…But God composed the body, having given greater honor to that part which lacks it, that there should be no schism in the body, but that the members should have the same care for one another.”

Application: Value all roles in the church equally—encouraging those who serve behind the scenes.

⸻

✅ 4. Submit to Spiritual Leadership

🧾 Hebrews 13:17 (NKJV)

“Obey those who rule over you, and be submissive, for they watch out for your souls, as those who must give account…”

Application: Show honor by respecting pastors, elders, and those discipling you—even when they challenge you.

⸻

✅ 5. Restore the Fallen with Gentleness

🧾 Galatians 6:1 (NKJV)

“Brethren, if a man is overtaken in any trespass, you who are spiritual restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness…”

Application: To honor someone is not to shame them when they fall, but to restore them with dignity.

⸻

🌍 Section 2: Honoring Unbelievers

Honoring unbelievers is critical for evangelism and discipleship relationships. It reflects God’s love and opens doors for the gospel.

✅ 1. Show Respect Regardless of Belief

🧾 1 Peter 3:15–16 (NKJV)

“…always be ready to give a defense… with meekness and fear; having a good conscience, that when they defame you… those who revile your good conduct in Christ may be ashamed.”

Application: Engage unbelievers respectfully, not arrogantly. Win them with truth and character.

⸻

✅ 2. Do Good Without Expecting in Return

🧾 Luke 6:35 (NKJV)

“But love your enemies, do good, and lend, hoping for nothing in return; and your reward will be great…”

Application: Honor by being generous, especially to those who cannot repay or may even reject you.

⸻

✅ 3. Be a Peacemaker in a Hostile Culture

🧾 Romans 12:18 (NKJV)

“If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men.”

Application: Don’t retaliate or argue over non-essentials. Model peace and humility in tense conversations.

⸻

✅ 4. Acknowledge Their God-Given Worth

🧾 Genesis 1:27 (NKJV)

“So God created man in His own image; in the image of God He created him…”

Application: Even if they’re far from God, they still bear His image. Treat them accordingly—with compassion, not contempt.

⸻

✅ 5. Practice Hospitality

🧾 Hebrews 13:2 (NKJV)

“Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by so doing some have unwittingly entertained angels.”

Application: Invite unbelievers into your home, your life, and your story—model Christ before preaching Him.

⸻

🧩 Summary Application Statement:

“To honor others is to see them through God’s eyes and treat them with intentional dignity—whether they are your brother in Christ or a stranger far from Him.”

**(5:00 – 1:00)**  Doctrine Today Jesus and His Present Ministry The Holy Spirit’s Role in Disciple Making. Dispensational Baptist view of the End Times Understanding Theology is Important The Gospel and Ongoing Disciple Making Church Role in Discerning God’s Will Barriers to Disciple Making Spiritual Warfare Jesus – Incarnation God’s Sovereignty Sin and the Call to Make Disciples

REPENTANCE AND THE DISCIPLE MAKER

1. Repentance Is Central to the Gospel Message  • Acts 2:38 (NKJV) – “Then Peter said to them, ‘Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.’”  • Mark 1:14–15 (NKJV) – “Jesus came to Galilee, preaching the gospel of the kingdom of God, and saying, ‘The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand. Repent, and believe in the gospel.’”

📌 Point: The call to repentance is not optional—it’s the first response to the Gospel. As disciple-makers, we cannot proclaim Christ faithfully without calling people to repentance.

⸻

2. Repentance Is Ongoing in the Life of the Disciple  • 1 John 1:8–9 (NKJV) – “If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves… If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us…”  • Revelation 3:19 (NKJV) – “As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten. Therefore be zealous and repent.”

📌 Point: Repentance is not a one-time act but a continual attitude of the heart. Disciple-makers must model and teach ongoing repentance as part of spiritual growth and sanctification.

⸻

3. True Repentance Bears Fruit  • Matthew 3:8 (NKJV) – “Therefore bear fruits worthy of repentance…”  • Acts 26:20 (NKJV) – “…that they should repent, turn to God, and do works befitting repentance.”

📌 Point: A changed life is evidence of genuine repentance. Disciple-makers must help others identify and pursue the fruit of repentance (e.g., humility, obedience, love, reconciliation).

⸻

4. Repentance Is a Work of God, But Requires a Human Response  • 2 Timothy 2:25 (NKJV) – “…if God perhaps will grant them repentance, so that they may know the truth…”  • Romans 2:4 (NKJV) – “…the goodness of God leads you to repentance.”

📌 Point: While repentance is a gift from God, it calls for a real and willing response. Disciple-makers must depend on the Spirit while calling people to take real steps.

⸻

5. A Disciple Maker Must First Live a Life of Repentance  • Psalm 139:23–24 (NKJV) – “Search me, O God, and know my heart… and lead me in the way everlasting.”  • Matthew 7:3–5 (NKJV) – “First remove the plank from your own eye…”

📌 Point: Integrity matters. A disciple-maker’s power comes from walking authentically with Jesus. Ongoing self-examination and repentance are prerequisites for discipling others.

⸻

6. Repentance Prepares the Heart for Discipleship  • Luke 9:23 (NKJV) – “If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me.”  • Acts 3:19 (NKJV) – “Repent therefore and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, so that times of refreshing may come…”

📌 Point: Discipleship requires a surrendered heart. Repentance clears the ground for following Jesus wholeheartedly and being made into His likeness.

⸻

7. Disciple-Makers Must Call Others to Repentance Boldly and Lovingly  • Luke 24:46–47 (NKJV) – “…that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in His name to all nations…”  • 2 Corinthians 7:10 (NKJV) – “For godly sorrow produces repentance leading to salvation…”

📌 Point: Our call is not to shame, but to invite. We call people to repentance out of love and hope, trusting that it will lead to joy and transformation.

**(1:00)** 

How are you doing at really seeing and hearing the people around you? The message of Salvation is best given when our attitudes and actions make the love of Jesus as clear as the message of the Gospel. Let’s agree to slow down and really see the people God has placed in our lives. Seeing them, let’s honor them as image bearers of a Holy God and serve them as those Jesus loved enough to go to the cross for.

– “Thank you for listening today!  -If you enjoyed the show you can listen to all the past shows wherever you listen to podcasts. A good place to start is at runwithhorses.net. You can also write me at norman@runwithhorses.net or leave a comment on the Run With Horses Podcast facebook page. Don’t be discouraged by the challenges you face. Keep your eyes on Jesus and embrace the opportunity to grow through the trial. Until next time, keep your eyes on Jesus and never stop running." **(00:00)**

**(24:00)** If you are like me you have a long list fo things you would like to see accomplished this week. Time always seems in short supply with way more to do than time to do it. in the middle of the busyness, what is God doing? How can we keep Him first in the middle of the rat race. That our topic today!

Welcome to Run With Horses! My name is Norman and my goal is to help you thrive as a follower of Jesus. The spiritual life is simple in many ways, but potentially the most difficult part of your life. God invites you to grow, to live intentionally and to join in His mission. It’s very cool that we can do that together! Thank you for joining me today! “If you’re new here, you can check out past episodes at runwithhorses.net. As always, I appreciate your feedback, questions, and reviews!”

**(23:00 – 0:00)* *  PART 1 Run With Horses is on the radio! If you are enjoying Run With Horses, would you let someone know? Contact the radio station or leave a review on your favorite app. We want to hear from you!

### 1. Stewardship of our Time: “Redeeming the Time”

Passage: Ephesians 5:15–17 (NKJV)

“See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, 16 redeeming the time, because the days are evil. 17 Therefore do not be unwise, but understand what the will of the Lord is.” Principle: Every minute is a gift. We must “buy back” each hour from distractions by aligning our schedules with God’s priorities—especially the Great Commission.

### 2. Wisdom in Planning: “The Plans of the Diligent”

Passage: Proverbs 21:5 (NKJV)

“The plans of the diligent lead surely to plenty, but those of everyone who is hasty, to poverty.” Principle: Thoughtful, prayerful planning prevents wasted time and creates margin for gospel opportunities (e.g., inviting neighbors, mentoring new believers).

### 3. Counting Our Days: “Teach Us to Number Our Days”

Passage: Psalm 90:12 (NKJV)

“So teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” Principle: An eternal-perspective reminder that life is brief. When we internalize our limited hours, we’ll prioritize what lasts—making disciples.

### 4. Purposeful Living: “Doing All to the Glory of God”

Passage: 1 Corinthians 10:31 (NKJV)

“Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” Principle: Every task—work, rest, family time, evangelism—should be offered as worship. That reshapes even “routine” minutes into Kingdom service.

### 5. Prioritizing Prayer & Communion: “Jesus Prayed Early”

Passage: Mark 1:35 (NKJV)

“Now in the morning, having risen a long while before daylight, He went out and departed to a solitary place; and there He prayed.” Principle: Jesus structured His day around communion with the Father—our ultimate source of wisdom for time management and disciple-making.

### 6. Eternal Urgency: “For What Is Your Life?”

Passage: James 4:14 (NKJV)

“Whereas you do not know what will happen tomorrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away.” Principle: The fleetingness of life compels urgent obedience to the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19–20).

### 7. Single-Mindfulness: “Deny Yourself”

Passage: Luke 9:23–24 (NKJV)

“If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me. 24 For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will save it.” Principle: Self-discipline in scheduling (saying “no” to lesser things) frees us to “lose” our lives in service—especially in making disciples.

### 8. Balance Work & Rest: “Six Days You Shall Labor…”

Passage: Exodus 20:8–10,12 (NKJV)

“Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy…6 for in six days the Lord made the heavens and the earth…12 ‘Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long…’” Principle: Biblical sabbath—and honoring family—establish healthy rhythms that prevent burnout and protect time for disciple-care.

###9. Investing in Others: “Do Not Steal” (as Stealing Time)

Passage: Ephesians 4:28 (NKJV)

“Let him who stole steal no longer… but rather let him labor, working with his hands what is good, that he may have something to give him who has need.” Principle: Our work (and your time!) isn’t just for self—but for generosity. Freeing up “spare” hours to invest in new believers.

### 10. The Great Commission as First Priority

Passage: Matthew 28:19–20 (NKJV)

“Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations…teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always…” Principle: Every time-management decision must be filtered through: “Will this help me obey Jesus’s command to make disciples?”

**(00:00) END PART 1** **(27:00 – 5:00) BEGIN PART 2**

### Part 2: Practical Advice for Using Time to Be and Make Disciples

### 1. Begin with a Paradigm Shift: Time is Kingdom Currency  • Time is not just something we “spend”; it’s something we invest. Just like money, time can be stewarded for temporary or eternal purposes.  • Regularly ask: “Is this activity helping me know Jesus more deeply or helping someone else follow Him better?”

“Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time…” (Ephesians 5:15–16)

### 2. Build Life Around Jesus’s Priorities, Not Just Adding Him In  • Many busy Christians are trying to fit Jesus into their schedule instead of building their schedule around Him.  • Suggest starting with these 3 buckets and planning around them:  • Time with God (Being a disciple) – prayer, Scripture, Sabbath, silence.  • Time with others (Making disciples) – intentional meals, mentoring, small groups.  • Time on mission (Living sent) – workplace witness, neighborhood engagement, volunteering.

### 3. Combine Your Calling With Your Calendar

Help them redeem ordinary rhythms by integrating disciple-making into:  • Meals – “Who can you eat with this week that needs encouragement or the gospel?”  • Commutes – Use it for prayer, audio Bibles, check-in calls with mentees.  • Family time – Lead short devotionals, model hospitality, include kids in ministry moments.  • Work breaks – Strategic encouragement or follow-up with someone God’s placed nearby.

“Disciple-making doesn’t always need new time blocks—it often needs intentionality in existing ones.”

### 4. Create a Disciple-Making Weekly Rhythm

Encourage a simple rhythm:  • Daily: Time with God, open eyes to opportunities.  • Weekly: 1 relational touchpoint (e.g., coffee, call, prayer walk).  • Monthly: One deeper investment (e.g., mentoring conversation, service together).  • Quarterly: Retreat or reevaluation—Am I growing? Is anyone growing because of me?

### 5. Say No to Say Yes

Help them see that every “yes” is a “no” to something else.  • Challenge: “What are you doing that someone else could do, so you can do what only you can do?”  • Sometimes the most spiritual thing they can do is decline a good thing for the sake of the best thing (Luke 10:41–42 – “Martha, Martha…”).

### 6. Use Tools with Intentionality  • Calendar: Block time for people, not just tasks.  • Alarms/reminders: Prompt prayer, Scripture, check-ins.  • Apps: Bible apps, group chats for discipleship groups, accountability tools.  • Notebooks or journals: Record prayers, disciple progress, insights from Scripture.

### 7. Don’t Go Alone—Form a Band of Disciple-Makers  • Encourage small discipleship bands of 2–4 people with shared goals and check-ins.  • Ask: “Who’s helping you follow Jesus better? Who are you helping?”  • This builds encouragement, accountability, and shared momentum.

### 8. Encouragement: Grace Over Guilt, Progress Over Perfection  • Remind them that they are not earning God’s favor by being busy for Him.  • Jesus is not measuring productivity; He’s forming people.  • Celebrate small, faithful steps. Even 5 minutes of prayer for someone is eternally significant.  • God multiplies what we surrender, even if it’s small (loaves and fish principle).

“You may feel behind, but Jesus is not. He’s patient, and He delights in every act of love in His name.”

### Challenge

 • “Imagine if every one of us made just one disciple this year.”  • write one name they’ll pray for or pursue this month.  • You don’t need more time—you need more focus and faith.

**(5:00 – 1:00)**  Doctrine Today Jesus and His Present Ministry The Holy Spirit’s Role in Disciple Making. Dispensational Baptist view of the End Times Understanding Theology is Important The Gospel and Ongoing Disciple Making Church Role in Discerning God’s Will Barriers to Disciple Making Spiritual Warfare Jesus – Incarnation God’s Sovereignty

Sin and the Call to Make Disciples

I. Introduction: The Clear Call of Jesus  • Matthew 28:18–20 (NKJV) “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations…”  • The Great Commission is not a suggestion, but a command.  • Discipleship is not optional for the believer—it’s our identity and mission.  • Briefly affirm your audience’s desire to follow Jesus more faithfully.

II. The Nature and Consequence of Sin  • Romans 3:23 (NKJV) “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.”  • Isaiah 59:2 (NKJV) “But your iniquities have separated you from your God…”  • Hebrews 12:1 (NKJV) “Let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us…”

Key Points:  • Sin is not just moral failure—it’s a barrier to intimacy with God and others.  • Sin entangles and weighs down believers, keeping us from active obedience.  • Our mission to make disciples is spiritual warfare—sin compromises our witness, our clarity, and our power.

III. Sin’s Direct Impact on Discipleship

A. It Weakens Our Witness  • 1 Peter 2:11–12 (NKJV) “…abstain from fleshly lusts which war against the soul, having your conduct honorable… that they may, by your good works… glorify God.”  • Our credibility is tied to our character. Ongoing, unrepentant sin dulls our message.

B. It Diminishes Our Passion  • Revelation 2:4–5 (NKJV) “…you have left your first love. Remember… repent and do the first works.”  • Sin numbs the heart. A lukewarm heart does not multiply disciples—it replicates complacency.

C. It Breaks Fellowship and Unity  • John 13:34–35 (NKJV) “By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.”  • Sin disrupts love and unity, weakening the Church’s witness and the environment in which disciples are formed.

IV. Repentance and Restoration for Disciple Makers  • 1 John 1:9 (NKJV) “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us…”  • Psalm 51:10–13 (NKJV) “Create in me a clean heart… Then I will teach transgressors Your ways, and sinners shall be converted to You.”  • Repentance is not the end of ministry—it’s often the beginning of renewed fruitfulness.  • David sinned greatly, but through repentance, his voice became a song of redemption that still disciples us today.

V. Living Holy to Make Disciples Effectively  • 2 Timothy 2:21 (NKJV) “Therefore if anyone cleanses himself… he will be a vessel for honor, sanctified and useful for the Master…”  • Holiness is not perfection, but readiness—an availability for God’s use.  • Personal holiness fuels spiritual authority and fruitfulness in disciple-making.

VI. Conclusion: Renew the Mission  • Luke 9:23 (NKJV) “If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me.”  • Philippians 2:15–16 (NKJV) “…shine as lights in the world, holding fast the word of life…”  • The world needs disciples. The church needs disciple-makers. Jesus is still calling.  • Let us repent where we’ve fallen, recommit where we’ve grown weary, and re-engage the mission with holy fire.

**(1:00)** 

Busyness can suck that life out of you. One reason is that other activities intrude on the work that God is doing in you and through you. Be proactive and put God first in every activity, every day. It’s not always easy but it’s always right.

– “Thank you for listening today!  -If you enjoyed the show you can listen to all the past shows wherever you listen to podcasts. A good place to start is at runwithhorses.net. You can also write me at norman@runwithhorses.net or leave a comment on the Run With Horses Podcast facebook page. Don’t be discouraged by the challenges you face. Keep your eyes on Jesus and embrace the opportunity to grow through the trial. Until next time, keep your eyes on Jesus and never stop running." **(00:00)**

Podcast: rwh.podbean.com Website: www.runwithhorses.net Youtube: https://youtube.com/@rwhpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RWHpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rwh_podcast Twitter: https://twitter.com/RWH_podcast

Author pages with links to all books on Amazon.

https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BCSDDVLB – James Norman Smith

https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BMGW51FW – Susan Jane Smith

Paul challenged believers to put effort into their spiritual life. Change is a part of growth and we should desire to be more like Jesus. A Christian is filled with the Holy Spirit who is working to make us like Jesus. Change will happen. The joy is that we can embrace it and benefit from working with God instead of against Him. A growth-minded believer:

1. Welcomes challenges as opportunities for sanctification (James 1:2–4 NKJV).

2. Perseveres under trial, knowing endurance produces spiritual maturity (Romans 5:3–5 NKJV).

3. Seeks feedback and correction, recognizing rebuke refines faith (Proverbs 27:17 NKJV; Proverbs 12:1 NKJV).

4. Celebrates others’ growth, rejoicing when fellow believers flourish (Romans 12:15 NKJV).

Jesus’ charge to “make disciples” frames our growth-oriented calling:

A growth mindset fuels the “teaching” phase: we believe learners can grow in knowledge, obedience, and Christ-likeness. It also shapes our own approach, as we accept that our skills in evangelism, teaching, and mentoring improve through practice, prayer, and reliance on God.

Scripture depicts growth as a journey:

• “But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.” —2 Peter 3:18 (NKJV)

• “Therefore, leaving the discussion of the elementary principles of Christ, let us go on to perfection…” —Hebrews 6:1 (NKJV)

• “I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.” —Philippians 3:14 (NKJV)

These passages underscore that maturity takes intentional effort—exactly the outworking of a growth mindset in the spiritual realm.

Command

Scripture (NKJV)

Growth-Mindset Connection

Love one another

John 13:34–35

Encourages perseverance in relationships even when hard.

Serve one another

Galatians 5:13

Builds humility and stewards gifts for others’ growth.

Encourage one another

1 Thessalonians 5:11

Puts others first.

Admonish one another

Colossians 3:16; Romans 15:14

Welcomes correction for mutual sanctification.

Bear one another’s burdens

Galatians 6:2

Cultivates perseverance and compassion.

Spur one another on

Hebrews 10:24

Motivates toward good deeds and spiritual progress.

Pray for one another

James 5:16

Invites God’s transforming power in growth.

Be kind and tenderhearted

Ephesians 4:32

Gives mercy to those who need it, we all do!

Together, these “one another’s” form the relational soil in which a growth mindset flourishes—each believer both a learner and a teacher, giving and receiving grace, correction, encouragement, and accountability.

1. Model a growth mindset by sharing your own struggles and progress in Bible study, prayer, or ministry skills.

2. Set incremental goals for disciples (e.g., memorizing Scripture, leading a small group), celebrating small wins to build confidence (Zechariah 4:10 NKJV).

3. Cultivate “one another” rhythms in your church—regular accountability groups, prayer partnerships, and service teams.

4. Teach the biblical process of growth—explain that sanctification involves trials, correction, and perseverance, rooted in passages like James 1:2–4 (NKJV) and Hebrews 12:11 (NKJV).

5. Encourage reflection—have disciples journal progress, confess weaknesses, and plan next steps, reinforcing that effort and dependence on Christ yield transformation.

    

**(00:00) END PART 1**

**(27:00 – 5:00) BEGIN PART 2**

The Holy Spirit reshapes how we think about challenges, our own abilities, and the process of sanctification.

“I can’t change,” “I can’t do that.” and the like are big hinderances to spiritual growth. Lies need to be brought into the light and exchanged for truth. The question should be, “What is God doing? What does HE want me to do?” God empowers His people for His work.

Practice:

• Keep a “mindset journal.” When you catch yourself thinking “I’ll never grow in this,” write it down and pray: “Lord, show me Your truth here.”

• Replace it with a Scriptural affirmation (“I can grow by God’s grace”—Philippians 4:13).

A growth mindset flourishes when immersed in truth. Scripture both reveals God’s power to change us and gives the roadmap.

Read, Think Deeply about,and put it into practice.

Practice:

• Start with 5–10 minutes each morning reading a short passage (e.g. one chapter of Proverbs or the Gospels).

• Ask: “What does this teach me about God’s promise to strengthen me?”

Growth requires divine enablement—both insight and the grit to keep going.

Practice:

• Begin each day by asking God for wisdom to see opportunities for growth and the patience to endure them.

• When trials come (at work, in relationships, in ministry), thank Him for the refining work He intends.

Even if attendance has been spotty, intentional fellowship is vital for encouragement, accountability, and skill development.

Practice:

• Commit to attending at least one fellowship gathering (Sunday service, small group, men’s/women’s Bible study).

• Ask a mature believer to meet monthly as a “growth partner” for prayer and feedback.

SMART goals

Growth rarely happens overnight. Incremental victories build confidence that God can grow you further.

Practice:

• Choose one discipline (e.g., Scripture memory, daily prayer journaling, service) and set a tiny goal: memorize one verse a week, pray five minutes daily, serve once a month.

• Celebrate each completion by recording it in your journal and thanking God.

A growth mindset leans into rebuke, knowing it produces maturity.

Practice:

• Invite a trusted mentor or friend to give you honest feedback on your spiritual habits.

• When you receive correction, respond with “Thank you—help me understand how to improve.”

Focusing on progress—both yours and others’—reinforces a mindset that abilities can expand.

Practice:

• Keep a “gratitude list” of spiritual wins you see in yourself and others.

• Send a quick note or text to encourage a fellow believer when they share a breakthrough.

A growth mindset isn’t self-reliance; it’s dependence on Christ, who is at work in us.

Practice:

• In moments of discouragement (“I failed again…”), confess your weakness and ask Christ to work through it.

• Memorize 2 Corinthians 12:9–10 and speak it aloud whenever you feel stuck.

**(5:00 – 1:00)**

Doctrine Today

Jesus and His Present Ministry

The Holy Spirit’s Role in Disciple Making.

Dispensational Baptist view of the End Times

Understanding Theology is Important

The Gospel and Ongoing Disciple Making

Church Role in Discerning God’s Will

Barriers to Disciple Making

Spiritual Warfare

Jesus – Incarnation

God’s Sovereignty

God’s sovereignty means that God reigns over all things with perfect wisdom, power, and love, and nothing in our lives is outside His control.

When life feels chaotic or unjust, God’s sovereignty assures us that nothing happens apart from His knowledge or plan.

Why it matters: Even suffering and confusion have purpose under God's rule. He’s not reacting—He’s reigning.

Because God is sovereign over salvation, we can evangelize boldly, knowing He draws hearts to Himself.

Why it matters: The results of disciple-making aren’t on your shoulders. You sow and water; God gives the increase (1 Corinthians 3:6–7 NKJV).

You are not random. You are created, saved, and called intentionally.

Why it matters: Your life, your calling, and even your challenges are part of God’s good and sovereign plan.

When we recognize God is in control and we are not, we bow in awe and dependence.

Why it matters: Sovereignty reminds us that God is God—and we are not.

We can believe God's Word with full assurance because no power can thwart His will.

Why it matters: Our eternal hope is secure because it rests in God’s unshakable rule.

**(1:00)**

It’s important for all of us to see the big picture in life. God IS working and He WILL complete His work in you. Daily remind yourself that God is drawing you to Himself and He invites you to be an active participant in your spiritual growth. Reject the lie that you can’t change. See the person God wants you to be and put real effort into doing your part, trusting that God will always do His part.

– “Thank you for listening today!

-If you enjoyed the show you can listen to all the past shows wherever you listen to podcasts. A good place to start is at runwithhorses.net. You can also write me at norman@runwithhorses.net or leave a comment on the Run With Horses Podcast facebook page.

Don’t be discouraged by the challenges you face. Keep your eyes on Jesus and embrace the opportunity to grow through the trial. Until next time, keep your eyes on Jesus and never stop running."

**(00:00)**

Podcast: rwh.podbean.com Website: www.runwithhorses.net Youtube: https://youtube.com/@rwhpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RWHpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rwh_podcast Twitter: https://twitter.com/RWH_podcast

Author pages with links to all books on Amazon.

https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BCSDDVLB – James Norman Smith

https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BMGW51FW – Susan Jane Smith

Do you find it difficult to stay on track and actually do the things you know you should do? Is consistency in exercise, healthy eating, regular prayer and daily time with God a problem for you? If so, you may benefit from seeking healthy, ongoing accountability as part of your spiritual journey toward Christ-likeness.

Welcome to Run With Horses! My name is Norman and my goal is to help you thrive as a follower of Jesus. The spiritual life is simple in many ways, but potentially the most difficult part of your life. God invites you to grow, to live intentionally and to join in His mission. It’s very cool that we can do that together!

Thank you for joining me today! “If you’re new here, you can check out past episodes at runwithhorses.net. As always, I appreciate your feedback, questions, and reviews!”

**(23:00 – 0:00)* * PART 1

Shout out to Radio Stations!

When the topic is accountability many people instantly run for the hills, fearing an heavy overbearing hand forcing them to do things they don’t want to do and hating every minute of it. Let me ease your mind, that is not Biblical accountability!

Biblical Accountability is a key tool in the life of a follower of Jesus who is seeking to grow spiritually and live according to biblical principles. It is something you invite into your relationships with other growing disciple of Jesus. We are on the same path and can help each other as we go. It’s not force, it’s mutual cooperation to intentionally move in the direction God is showing us.

As followers of Jesus, we are ultimately accountable to God for how we live our lives. Every believer must recognize that their actions, thoughts, and behaviors are under God's authority.

• Romans 14:12

• 2 Corinthians 5:10

The Bible also teaches that believers should be accountable to one another. We are not meant to walk the Christian life alone. God designed the church as a community where believers help one another grow spiritually.

• Galatians 6:1-2

• James 5:16

Spiritual growth requires intentionality, and part of that is having people in our lives who can help hold us accountable in our pursuit of holiness and spiritual maturity.

• Hebrews 10:24-25

• Proverbs 27:17

• Nathan and David: A powerful example of accountability can be seen in the relationship between the prophet Nathan and King David. After David's sin with Bathsheba, God sent Nathan to confront David about his sin. Nathan’s courage to hold David accountable ultimately led to David’s repentance and restoration (2 Samuel 12:1-14). This example highlights how accountability often involves speaking the truth in love, even when it's difficult.

• Paul and Peter: The apostle Paul held Peter accountable in Galatians 2:11-14, when Peter’s actions were inconsistent with the gospel. Peter was initially eating with Gentiles, but when certain Jewish believers arrived, he withdrew, fearing what they might think. Paul publicly confronted him, saying, “But when I saw that they were not straightforward about the truth of the gospel, I said to Peter before them all, ‘If you, being a Jew, live in the manner of Gentiles and not as the Jews, why do you compel Gentiles to live as Jews?’” (Galatians 2:14). This shows that accountability sometimes involves a public rebuke when necessary to uphold the truth of the gospel.

• Jesus and His Disciples: Jesus modeled accountability in His relationships with His disciples. He often rebuked them for their lack of faith or for misunderstanding His mission (e.g., Matthew 16:23, when He rebuked Peter, "Get behind Me, Satan!"). However, He also encouraged them to support each other, as seen in John 13:34-35, where He commanded them to love one another as He had loved them. The accountability Jesus modeled was always rooted in love and truth.

Ultimately, the Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in the life of a believer as they grow spiritually. The Holy Spirit convicts believers of sin, guides them into truth, and empowers them to live out the Christian life. Accountability to the Holy Spirit is a matter of responding to His promptings and seeking His strength to live faithfully.

• John 14:26

• Romans 8:13

**(00:00) END PART 1**

**(27:00 – 5:00) BEGIN PART 2**

Seeking out accountability is a crucial aspect of spiritual growth for several reasons. It helps believers stay on track in their walk with God, provides encouragement, and ensures that they are living according to biblical principles.

Accountability acts as a safeguard against spiritual drift. Without accountability, a person might subtly slide away from their spiritual disciplines, make compromises, or even fall into sin without realizing it. Having someone who can help point out blind spots and encourage continued growth helps keep a believer anchored in their faith.

• Proverbs 4:23

We all face temptations, and sometimes, the temptation to sin feels overwhelming. Accountability provides a powerful weapon to fight against temptation, as having someone to confess struggles to and ask for prayer can make a huge difference in overcoming sin.

• Ecclesiastes 4:9-10

Christian life is not a solo journey. Having others to encourage and challenge you is crucial for perseverance, especially when trials come. Accountability relationships are a source of encouragement when things feel difficult or when you're unsure about the next steps in your spiritual walk.

• Hebrews 10:24-25

Having someone who can challenge us or confront us when we’re in the wrong helps us maintain a heart of humility and openness. Accountability is not just about staying in line but also about being willing to acknowledge our faults and make changes when needed.

• James 5:16

Spiritual growth requires intentionality and discipline. Accountability partners help set goals and hold each other to those goals. This might involve commitments to prayer, Bible reading, serving others, or other spiritual disciplines. Having someone to check in with keeps us motivated and consistent.

• 1 Timothy 4:7-8

Accountability often brings perspective. We can be blind to our own shortcomings or struggles, but an accountability partner may see things we don’t. They can offer valuable advice, wisdom, or scriptural insights that help us grow.

• Proverbs 27:17

When believers come together for mutual accountability, their faith grows. Seeing others live out their faith and share their experiences can inspire us to deepen our own commitment to God. It fosters a sense of camaraderie and strengthens our resolve to stay faithful.

• Romans 1:12

Accountability helps keep believers focused on the goal of becoming more like Christ. The process of confessing sin, receiving correction, and being encouraged to pursue holiness creates an environment where believers can grow in their sanctification.

• Philippians 2:1-2

Before seeking accountability, it’s important to pray for guidance. Ask God to lead you to the right people—those who are spiritually mature and trustworthy, and who will help you grow in your faith.

• James 1:5

Seek people who are also committed to growing spiritually and living out biblical principles. Accountability works best when both parties are serious about their spiritual growth. This can include fellow church members, small group participants, or individuals from a Bible study.

• 2 Corinthians 6:14

Small groups, Bible studies, or discipleship groups are great places to build deeper relationships where mutual accountability can happen. These groups provide a natural environment for openness, prayer, and spiritual growth.

• Acts 2:42

If you don’t already have an accountability partner, don’t be afraid to approach someone you respect spiritually and ask if they would be willing to meet regularly to hold each other accountable. Be honest about what you’re seeking and humble in your approach.

• Proverbs 15:22

The success of accountability relationships depends on openness and honesty. Be willing to share your struggles and your victories, and be open to both encouragement and correction.

• Ephesians 4:25

At its core, talking about growth issues together.

What we need, how we do it, what the stumbling blocks are. Asking how it’s going is a rminder to keep trying!

**(5:00 – 1:00)**

Doctrine Today

Jesus - Incarnation

**(1:00)**

– “Thank you for listening today!

-If you enjoyed the show you can listen to all the past shows wherever you listen to podcasts. A good place to start is at runwithhorses.net. You can also write me at norman@runwithhorses.net or leave a comment on the Run With Horses Podcast facebook page.

Don’t be discouraged by the challenges you face. Keep your eyes on Jesus and embrace the opportunity to grow through the trial. Until next time, keep your eyes on Jesus and never stop running."

**(00:00)**

Podcast: rwh.podbean.com Website: www.runwithhorses.net Youtube: https://youtube.com/@rwhpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RWHpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rwh_podcast Twitter: https://twitter.com/RWH_podcast

Author pages with links to all books on Amazon.

https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BCSDDVLB – James Norman Smith

https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BMGW51FW – Susan Jane Smith

Welcome to Run With Horses! My name is Norman and my goal is to help you thrive as a follower of Jesus. The spiritual life is simple in many ways, but potentially the most difficult part of your life. God invites you to grow, to live intentionally and to join in His mission. It’s very cool that we can do that together!

Thank you for joining me today! “If you’re new here, you can check out past episodes at runwithhorses.net. As always, I appreciate your feedback, questions, and reviews!”

Resilience is the ability to withstand, recover and even thrive in the midst of life's challenges while trusting God to accomplish His work. Resilience is really about our Faith. It is the strength and endurance to keep pressing forward in the face of adversity, maintaining faith in God's sovereignty and goodness. Resilience is not simply about surviving difficulty, but about growing spiritually and becoming more Christ-like in the process.

1. Patience Matures Our Faith: James 1:2-4 See trials as opportunities for spiritual growth:

   Resilience is tied to patience developed through trials. Instead of letting trials break us, we allow them to refine and mature our faith, making us more like Jesus.

2. God’s Strength in Our Weakness: The Apostle Paul exemplifies resilience in 2 Corinthians 12:9-10:

   Resilience in the Christian life is not about our own strength, but about relying on God’s strength. Our weakness becomes the vehicle for God's power to work through us, glorifying God and accomplishing His Will.

3. Imitate Christ's Example: Hebrews 12:1-2, Follow Jesus' example of enduring the cross, all for the joy set before Him:

   Jesus endured because He had an eternal perspective. Resilience, for the follower of Christ, involves fixing our eyes on the hope and reward that await us in eternity. Tis life is the journey that God uses to prepare us for eternity with Him.

4. Trusting God’s Promises Leads to Hope: Romans 5:3-5 :

   Hope is really important when we face challenges. And there is always Hope in Jesus! Trials refine our character and deepen our relationship with God. Knowing Him and His purposes, ultimately makes us more resilient in our Journey of Faith.

In the life of a believer, resilience is directly connected to discipleship and spiritual growth. Discipleship is not just about learning doctrine or performing religious duties; it is about becoming more like Jesus. As we endure trials with faith and patience, we grow in spiritual maturity and learn to depend on God more fully.

• Resilience Shapes Character: As we persevere through challenges, our character is refined, and we learn to love, trust, and obey God more fully. Romans 5:3-5 shows that tribulation produces perseverance, which leads to stronger character and unshakable hope.

• Resilience Cultivates Faithfulness: Discipleship is about the journey of following God daily in every circumstances. 1 Peter 1:6-7 reminds us that our faith is tested, and once proven, brings glory to God:

  As we remain faithful under trial, we demonstrate the genuineness of our faith. This faith, Real, tested and proven, will bring glory to God.

• Spiritual Growth Through Trials: The process of growing as a disciple requires us to be resilient. Trials are the training ground for spiritual maturity if you are a disciple of Jesus. He never promised an easy path!

• But He promises that it would be worth it in the end.

The Holy Spirit is integral to developing resilience. Romans 8:11 speaks of the power of the Holy Spirit to give life and strength to believers:

The same Spirit who raised Jesus from the dead enables believers to live with endurance, overcoming obstacles and remaining faithful in trials. Prayer and trusting God to work when our strength is gone are both Key for developing the abiity to get up every time life knocks you down.

As we endure hardship, we grow in patience, character, and hope, which ultimately leads to greater spiritual maturity. This process is central to ongoing discipleship, as it shapes us into the image of Christ.

A disciple of Jesus is on a continual journey of growing in faith, learning to rely on God's strength daily, and persevering through life’s trials. Both disciples and disciple makers have a role to play in this journey of Faith. Spiritual strength is nurtured through the spiritual disciplines as we deepen our relationship with God, and learn to trust in His faithfulness.

1. See the Big Picture: God is at work in the world and trials are normal and natural. The goal is not to avoid them but to grow through them. Let God accomplish His work in your life. God opens doors for ministry through our personal trials, look for them!

2. Do everything that you can to grow and mature your Faith! Be intentional about life, particularly your spiritual life.

3. Embrace God’s Word: One of the foundational ways a disciple develops resilience is through a deeper understanding of and trust in God’s Word. The Bible gives an eternal perspective for enduring trials. By studying Scripture, disciples learn what God is doing and learn to trust His promises, which gives them the strength to persevere.

   • Psalm 119:50:

4. A Deeper Relationship with God: Resilience is nurtured through a close relationship with God. Everything that we do to draw closer to Him helps prepare us for the next challenge. Prayer, meditation and memorizaton of the Bible and time with God’s family all strengthen our trust in God’s provision, wisdom, and presence. Jesus modeled these in His own life, we should do no less.

   • Philippians 4:6-7:

5. Through Reliance on God’s Strength (Not Our Own): Resilience is not about self-sufficiency, but about relying on God’s strength. The Apostle Paul was a model of this truth, understanding that his weakness allowed God’s strength to be more clearly displayed.

   • 2 Corinthians 12:9-10:

     A disciple develops resilience by recognizing that through their weakness that God’s power is most evident. This humility and dependence on God’s grace is key to enduring trials with perseverance.

6. Through Practicing Obedience and Faithfulness in Small Things: Resilience is developed when a disciple learns to be faithful in the small things, trusting God in everyday life. Obedience, even in seemingly insignificant matters, builds the foundation for enduring greater trials.

   • Luke 16:10:

     By being faithful in small matters, a disciple strengthens their ability to endure more significant trials and challenges.

7. Through Fellowship with Other Believers: Resilience is also cultivated in the context of community. Believers encourage one another, pray for one another, and share in each other’s struggles. Being part of a supportive Christian community strengthens a disciple’s ability to persevere.

   • Hebrews 10:24-25:

     Fellowship provides encouragement and accountability, helping disciples remain resilient as they navigate life’s challenges.

A disciple maker has a unique role in helping others grow in resilience by walking alongside them, providing guidance, and encouraging them to press on in their faith. Here’s how a disciple maker can help others develop resilience:

1. Modeling Resilience through Personal Example: One of the most powerful ways a disciple maker can encourage resilience is by modeling it in their own life. When a disciple maker faces trials and shows how they rely on God’s strength, it serves as a powerful testimony for others to follow.

   • 1 Thessalonians 1:6-7:

2. Teaching the Importance of Perspective: Disciple makers can help others develop resilience by teaching them to have an eternal perspective on their trials. They can point others to the hope of eternal life and the ultimate victory that awaits, even in the midst of hardship.

   • Romans 8:18:

     By helping others keep an eternal perspective, disciple makers teach them to view their trials in light of God’s promises and the hope of future glory.

3. Encouraging the Practice of Spiritual Disciplines: Disciple makers should encourage the regular practice of spiritual disciplines—prayer, Bible study, worship, and fasting—as these practices strengthen the disciple’s spiritual resilience.

   • Colossians 2:6-7:

     Spiritual disciplines help to deepen a disciple’s relationship with God, which builds the foundation for resilience.

4. Providing Encouragement and Accountability: A disciple maker should be a source of encouragement and accountability, especially in difficult times. They can remind the disciple of God’s faithfulness, pray for them, and offer counsel that points them back to Christ.

   • Galatians 6:2:

     Helping others bear their burdens is an essential part of developing resilience. A disciple maker should walk alongside their disciples, offering support, encouragement, and wisdom during trials.

5. Helping Disciplines Focus on God’s Promises: Disciple makers can help others develop resilience by pointing them back to God’s promises in times of hardship. The promises of God’s presence, provision, and protection provide a firm foundation for resilience.

   • Isaiah 41:10:

     A disciple maker can continually remind those they are discipling of the faithfulness of God, helping them to trust in His promises during difficult times.

A disciple of Jesus develops resilience by deeply engaging with God’s Word, prayer, dependence on God’s strength, obedience, and fellowship with other believers. A disciple maker helps others develop resilience by modeling it, teaching the importance of perspective, encouraging spiritual disciplines, providing support, and focusing on God’s promises. Together, these practices foster a strong, enduring faith that enables believers to press on through trials and grow more like Christ in the process.

Doctrine Today

Spiritual Warfare

It’s not easy to keep going when the journey is long and tough. The good news is that Jesus understands and takes the journey with us. You never have to face the trials alone. Stand tall and lean on Jesus in the middle of Life’s storms, trusting that He is growing you into the person you need to be.

– “Thank you for listening today!

-If you enjoyed the show you can listen to all the past shows wherever you listen to podcasts. A good place to start is at runwithhorses.net. You can also write me at norman@runwithhorses.net or leave a comment on the Run With Horses Podcast facebook page.

Don’t be discouraged by the challenges you face. Keep your eyes on Jesus and embrace the opportunity to grow through the trial. Until next time, keep your eyes on Jesus and never stop running."

Podcast: rwh.podbean.com Website: www.runwithhorses.net Youtube: https://youtube.com/@rwhpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RWHpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rwh_podcast Twitter: https://twitter.com/RWH_podcast

Author pages with links to all books on Amazon.

https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BCSDDVLB – James Norman Smith

https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BMGW51FW – Susan Jane Smith

Do you go it alone or do you walk through life with others? It’s not an either/ or proposition, it’s both! There are areas where you definitely have to pull you own weight but often, much more often than you may think, we are supposed to help each other through life. Today, we are thinking about self-reliance and interdependence for disciples of Jesus.

Welcome to Run With Horses! My name is Norman and my goal is to help you thrive as a follower of Jesus. The spiritual life is simple in many ways, but potentially the most difficult part of your life. God invites you to grow, to live intentionally and to join in His mission. It’s very cool that we can do that together!

Thank you for joining me today! “If you’re new here, you can check out past episodes at runwithhorses.net. As always, I appreciate your feedback, questions, and reviews!”

**(23:00 – 0:00)* * PART 1

• Scripture calls believers to cultivate personal accountability (self-reliance) while actively engaging in a community of faith (interdependence).

• Key Themes:

  • Biblical foundations for self-reliance in areas like personal spiritual growth, work, and stewardship.

  • Scriptural mandates for living in community, bearing one another’s burdens, and using spiritual gifts for the common good.

• Emphasize believer’s individual responsibility before God.

• Highlight the importance of local church fellowship as a way of fulfilling our mission together.

1. What does “self-reliance” mean in your personal walk with Christ?

2. How do you see interdependence playing a role in your local church or community?

• Self-reliance: Cultivating personal responsibility in one’s faith, work, finances, and spiritual growth, recognizing that while God provides strength, He also calls us to be diligent stewards of our lives.

1. Proverbs 6:6-8 (NKJV):

   • “Go to the ant, you sluggard; Consider her ways, and be wise. Which having no guide, overseer, or ruler, Provideth her supplies in the summer, And gathers her food in the harvest.”

     Encourage proactive effort and preparedness in everyday life.

     In what areas of your life can you emulate the ant’s industriousness?

2. Galatians 6:4-5 (NKJV):

   • “But let each one examine his own work, and then he shall have rejoicing in himself alone, and not in another. For each one shall bear his own load.”

     Highlight the importance of personal evaluation and responsibility.

     How can you take ownership of your spiritual growth while avoiding pride?

3. Philippians 4:13 (NKJV):

   • “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”

     Emphasize that personal achievement is rooted in Christ’s strength working through us.

     How does relying on Christ’s strength change your approach to personal challenges?

• Self-Examination: Encourage daily devotional practices and self-reflection.

  How are you taking responsibility for your life now? What practical actions show that you are serious about your spiritual life and responsibilities before God?

• Personal Responsibility: Discuss setting goals in prayer, work, and study.

  Where do you need to be more proactive? Are the basics covered? Are you seeking out ways to intentionally pursue godliness in your life? How, Where, When? Is it on your calendar and in your budget?

• Stewardship: Explore biblical principles of managing finances, time, and talents responsibly.

  Do you recognize the accountability that you have before God in the decisions you make? What does that look like?

**(00:00) END PART 1**

**(27:00 – 5:00) BEGIN PART 2**

• Interdependence: Recognizing that while believers are called to personal responsibility, they are also part of a larger, unified body where mutual support, accountability, and service are essential.

1. 1 Corinthians 12:12-27 (NKJV):

   • “For as the body is one and has many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body, so also is Christ...”

     Illustrate how each believer has a unique role that contributes to the health of the whole body.

     Which “spiritual gifts” do you see in your life that benefit the community, and how can you serve more effectively?

     Where and how are you living out this ‘Body Life’ of the church? Sunday morning worship service is NOT enough. Are you intentionally seeking fellowship and investing in the life of your church family. Are you inviting them into your life?

     Small groups, one on one meetings, microchurch gatherings in public and homes.

2. Galatians 6:2 (NKJV):

   • “Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.”

     Stress the call to support one another in times of difficulty.

     How have you experienced God’s provision through the help of others? How can you extend that help?

3. Ephesians 4:15-16 (NKJV):

   • “But, speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head—Christ. From whom the whole body, joined and knit together by every joint with which it is equipped, according to the proper working of each individual part, causes the growth of the body for the building up of itself in love.”

     Emphasize mutual edification and the organic growth of the church as a family of believers.

   • In what ways can you contribute to the spiritual growth of your church family?

     Intentionality is Key.

• Fellowship and Community: Discuss the importance of small groups, church ministries, and accountability partnerships. Doesn’t happen accidently.

• Serving Others: Outline practical opportunities for service in the local community and the global church. Local church, neighbor church, etc.

• Christians are called to be proactive and responsible stewards of their own lives (self-reliance) while also fully engaging in the support system provided by the Church (interdependence).

• James 2:14-17 (NKJV):

  • “What does it profit, my brethren, if someone says he has faith but does not have works? … Thus faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead.”

    Faith must be expressed both individually and collectively.

    How does your personal faith inspire you to serve the community, and in turn, how does community service strengthen your personal walk with Christ?

• How do you maintain personal discipline while remaining open to community guidance?

• “In what specific ways will you take responsibility for your personal growth this week, and how will you actively engage with your faith community?”

**(5:00 – 1:00)**

Doctrine Today

Jesus and His Present Ministry

The Holy Spirit’s Role in Disciple Making.

Dispensational Baptist view of the End Times

Understanding Theology is Important

The Gospel and Ongoing Disciple Making

Church Role in Discerning God’s Will

Barriers to Disciple Making

• Unclear Vision: Often, churches and individual believers may not have a clear, intentional vision or plan for disciple making. Without concrete goals, training, and accountability measures, disciple making can become an incidental outcome rather than a strategic priority.

• Scriptural Neglect: Some ministries may focus heavily on evangelism while underemphasizing the lifelong process of nurturing, teaching, and mentoring new believers. This disconnect from the biblical mandate (e.g., Matthew 28:19-20) can lead to a superficial understanding of discipleship.

• Self-Reliance Over Community: Modern Western culture often emphasizes personal autonomy and self-reliance, which can contrast sharply with the biblical call to community (1 Corinthians 12:12-27). This individualism makes it more challenging to create environments where believers willingly submit to accountability, mentoring, and mutual growth.

• Reluctance to Invest in Others: The desire for personal achievement and success may lead some to undervalue the long-term commitment required to disciple others, rather than focusing on immediate personal benefits or social status.

• Competing Priorities: In today’s fast-paced society, individuals often struggle to balance work, family, and ministry responsibilities. This busyness can leave little room for the deep, personal interactions required for disciple making.

• Over-Scheduled Lives: Constant digital engagement and overloaded schedules can lead to shallow relationships that lack the depth needed for transformative discipleship.

• Insufficient Leadership Development: Effective discipleship requires mentors who are themselves mature in their faith and skilled in relational dynamics. A shortage of trained leaders who can intentionally mentor others is a significant barrier.

• Inadequate Resources: Churches may not invest adequately in training programs or create robust systems for leadership development, resulting in missed opportunities to equip believers for disciple making.

• Impact of Technology: While digital media offers innovative outreach tools, the overreliance on online interactions can lead to more shallow, transactional relationships that lack the depth and accountability found in face-to-face mentoring.

• Social Media Culture: Constant engagement with social media may foster a culture of immediacy and quick approval, which can detract from the slow, formative process of true disciple making.

• Relational Barriers: Discipleship involves vulnerability and accountability. Many believers may be reluctant to share their struggles or admit weaknesses due to the fear of judgment or rejection by peers.

• Cultural Stigma: In both church settings and the broader society, there can be stigma associated with showing vulnerability, leading individuals to hide their need for growth rather than seeking relational support.

• Misconceptions About Grace and Works: Some may mistakenly view discipleship as a checklist of rules or a set of actions rather than a transformative process fueled by the Holy Spirit. This can lead to legalism on one end or laxity on the other.

• Lack of Depth: Without a robust, well-balanced teaching on both grace and discipline, believers can misunderstand the essence of discipleship, which involves both receiving God’s unmerited favor and engaging in the process of sanctification.

• Financial and Infrastructural Constraints: Smaller churches or those in economically challenged areas might lack the resources to create comprehensive discipleship programs. Budget constraints, limited venues for small groups, or lack of access to quality teaching materials can impact effectiveness.

• Institutional Resistance: Sometimes, long-standing institutional practices can resist change, making it difficult to adapt or innovate new methods for effective disciple making.

**(1:00)**

As we follow Jesus there is a need to do our part and help others along the way. Engaging in the life of the church family often benefits you more than you expect, in ways that you don’t expect. The Body of Christ, when operating as it should helps you to grow and gives you opportunities to invest in helping others to grow. Your gifts are needed just as you need the gifts of others.

– “Thank you for listening today!

-If you enjoyed the show you can listen to all the past shows wherever you listen to podcasts. A good place to start is at runwithhorses.net. You can also write me at norman@runwithhorses.net or leave a comment on the Run With Horses Podcast facebook page.

May we all be found faithful, ready, and living for eternity. Until next time, keep your eyes on Jesus and never stop running."

**(00:00)**

Podcast: rwh.podbean.com Website: www.runwithhorses.net Youtube: https://youtube.com/@rwhpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RWHpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rwh_podcast Twitter: https://twitter.com/RWH_podcast

Author pages with links to all books on Amazon.

https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BCSDDVLB – James Norman Smith

https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BMGW51FW – Susan Jane Smith

Following Jesus was never meant to be easy. Self-discipline is a key component of a Christian's walk with Christ, especially for those who are striving to be obedient to His call to be disciple makers. Self-discipline - today we look at what it is and what it matters.

Welcome to Run With Horses! My name is Norman and my goal is to help you thrive as a follower of Jesus. The spiritual life is simple in many ways, but potentially the most difficult part of your life. God invites you to grow, to live intentionally and to join in His mission. It’s very cool that we can do that together!

Thank you for joining me today! “If you’re new here, you can check out past episodes at runwithhorses.net. As always, I appreciate your feedback, questions, and reviews!”

**(23:00 – 0:00)* * PART 1

Biblical theology, emphasizes holiness, and sanctification. Self-discipline is an essential piece of the puzzle for growing your faith, honoring God, and becoming more like Christ.

The Bible teaches that following Jesus involves ongoing transformation. Self-discipline enables a Christian to maintain focus on spiritual growth and maturity. This growth is not passive; it requires intentional effort to discipline oneself in the faith.

• 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 (NKJV): “Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may obtain it. And everyone who competes for the prize is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a perishable crown, but we for an imperishable crown. Therefore I run thus: not with uncertainty. Thus I fight: not as one who beats the air. But I discipline my body and bring it into subjection, lest, when I have preached to others, I myself should become disqualified.”

  In this passage, Paul emphasizes the importance of self-discipline in the Christian life. Like an athlete training for a race, the believer must discipline their body and actions to ensure they live a life pleasing to God. This passage also highlights that discipline is necessary for not only spiritual progress but also for preventing spiritual failure.

Self-discipline is crucial for resisting temptation and living a holy life. Christians are called to reject sin and live in a way that honors God, and this requires discipline in thoughts, words, and actions.

• 1 Timothy 4:7-8 (NKJV): “But reject profane and old wives’ fables, and exercise yourself toward godliness. For bodily exercise profits a little, but godliness is profitable for all things, having promise of the life that now is and of that which is to come.”

  Paul urges Timothy to “exercise” toward godliness, which speaks to the discipline of growing in spiritual maturity. This is contrasted with physical exercise, which has limited benefits, while spiritual discipline has eternal value.

• Titus 2:11-12 (NKJV): “For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men, teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in the present age.”

  The grace of God teaches the believer to deny sinful desires and live disciplined lives, demonstrating the power of grace in enabling self-control.

Christians are called to be stewards of their time, talents, and resources. Practicing self-discipline helps them use these gifts in a way that honors God and furthers His kingdom.

• Ephesians 5:15-16 (NKJV): “See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil.”

  This passage speaks to the importance of using time wisely. Self-discipline involves making choices that align with God’s will, ensuring that the believer is living for eternal purposes rather than temporary desires.

A disciplined prayer life and consistent study of Scripture are vital for growth in the faith. Christians must intentionally set aside time to communicate with God and immerse themselves in His Word.

• Matthew 26:41 (NKJV): “Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.”

  Jesus speaks to the importance of watchfulness and prayer to avoid falling into temptation. Self-discipline in maintaining a life of prayer is necessary for strength against sin.

• 2 Timothy 2:15 (NKJV): “Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.”

  This emphasizes the discipline required in studying Scripture. A believer who wants to rightly divide the Word must be diligent and disciplined in their study.

Lastly, the ultimate example of self-discipline is Jesus Himself. He lived a life of perfect self-discipline, obeying the Father’s will even to the point of death on the cross.

• Luke 9:23 (NKJV): “Then He said to them all, ‘If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me.’”

  To follow Jesus is to practice daily self-discipline, denying one's own desires and submitting to the will of God.

For anyone who is striving to follow Jesus, self-discipline is not merely about willpower, but it is a response to God's grace and a necessary aspect of sanctification. It requires a commitment to spiritual practices, a resistance to temptation, and an ongoing pursuit of holiness. Through self-discipline, believers not only grow in Christ-likeness but also glorify God in all aspects of their lives.

Self-discipline is both a duty and a privilege, empowered by the Holy Spirit and essential to the believer's walk with Christ. It is through discipline that Christians can live according to God's Word and fulfill their calling to be holy and set apart for His purposes.

**(00:00) END PART 1**

**(27:00 – 5:00) BEGIN PART 2**

Developing self-discipline as a follower of Jesus requires intentional effort and commitment. A commitment to the spiritual disciplines can be a big part of the process of growing as a follower of Jesus. These disciplines are practices that help a believer grow in their relationship with God, resist temptation, and align their lives more closely with His will. In the context of following Jesus, self-discipline is rooted in God's grace but also requires the active participation of the believer in cultivating habits that foster spiritual growth. The spiritual disciplines are habits that help us keep our focus. Prayer, Bible reading, meditation and study Silence, Solitude, Community, Fasting. These are habits that help you build a strong spiritual life. We have talked about them before and will come back to them again but for now, Know that studying and practicing the spiritual disciplines should be a part of your spiritual life.

Developing personal self-discipline is a key aspect of spiritual growth and daily life, especially for a Christian who is striving to follow Jesus. While spiritual disciplines like prayer, Bible study, and worship are vital, personal self-discipline in everyday activities also plays a significant role in the overall process. Here are practical steps that can help someone develop or increase their personal self-discipline:

Having clear goals allows you to stay focused and motivated. Self-discipline thrives when you have a sense of purpose. Start by determining what is most important to you, both in your spiritual life and personal life.

• Actionable Step: Write down your goals—spiritual, personal, and professional—and prioritize them. Break them down into smaller, achievable tasks. For example, if your goal is to read through the Bible in a year, break it into daily reading plans.

A structured routine helps build self-discipline because it instills consistency. When you have a set schedule, you're less likely to be distracted by fleeting desires or emotions.

• Actionable Step: Create a daily or weekly schedule that includes time for prayer, Bible study, work, exercise, meals, and sleep. Setting fixed times for these activities helps cultivate habits and limits procrastination. NEXT ACTION. DO IT.

• Proverbs 12:1 (NKJV): “Whoever loves instruction loves knowledge, But he who hates correction is stupid.” A disciplined schedule allows you to grow in knowledge and wisdom, as it gives you time to learn and apply godly principles.

Small, healthy habits can lead to big changes. Good habits can gradually transform your life and build the foundation for self-discipline. These habits can include morning routines, exercise, and eating habits. Whole Life stewardship requires WHOLE LIFE DISCIPLINE.

• Actionable Step: Start by adopting one healthy habit at a time, such as drinking water in the morning, avoiding social media first thing, or exercising regularly. Focus on consistency, and gradually build other habits on top of that.

• 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 (NKJV): “Or do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own? For you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God’s.” Taking care of your body through healthy habits is a way to honor God and develop discipline.

Accountability is a powerful tool in developing self-discipline. When you know someone is holding you accountable, it increases your motivation and helps you stay on track. You aren’t in this alone.

• Actionable Step: Find an accountability partner or a group that shares your spiritual goals. This could be a prayer partner, a mentor, or a small group from your church. Regular check-ins and mutual encouragement can strengthen your resolve.

• Proverbs 27:17 (NKJV): “As iron sharpens iron, so a man sharpens the countenance of his friend.” Accountability helps keep you on the path of discipline and encourages you to grow together with others.

Self-discipline often involves making hard choices and learning to say no to things that are not aligned with your goals or that hinder your progress. This applies to both time management and spiritual focus. You must be clear on God’s calling for you life and let nothing hinder your pursuit of Him and His mission.

• Actionable Step: Practice saying no to distractions, whether it's binge-watching TV, spending excessive time on social media, or even good things that might prevent you from focusing on what matters most, like spending time with God or with family.

• Matthew 5:37 (NKJV): “But let your ‘Yes’ be ‘Yes,’ and your ‘No,’ ‘No.’ For whatever is more than these is from the evil one.” Learning to say no when necessary is part of being disciplined, especially when it comes to guarding your time and energy.

Distractions are one of the biggest barriers to self-discipline. It’s difficult to stay focused when you're surrounded by temptations or interruptions. By intentionally reducing distractions, you can stay on task and make better use of your time. Remember Mary and Martha. There is one thing you need.

• Actionable Step: Identify areas of your life where you tend to get distracted—such as your phone, the internet, or unproductive relationships—and take steps to minimize those distractions. For instance, you could put your phone in another room while reading your Bible or studying.

• Matthew 6:6 (NKJV): “But you, when you pray, go into your room, and when you have shut your door, pray to your Father who is in the secret place; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly.” Finding a quiet, distraction-free space for prayer or study is essential in maintaining self-discipline.

Self-discipline doesn’t mean working yourself to exhaustion. Taking breaks is important for mental and physical well-being. Rest allows you to recharge and maintain focus over time.

• Actionable Step: Schedule regular breaks throughout the day to rest and recharge. Ensure that you also take time off from work and other obligations to rest, whether it’s a weekly Sabbath, a day off, or short breaks during the day.

• Exodus 20:8-10 (NKJV): “Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy. Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is the Sabbath of the Lord your God. In it you shall do no work...” Resting is essential for spiritual, emotional, and physical renewal, and it’s a discipline that promotes a balanced life.

Building self-discipline in small areas of life can create a ripple effect that leads to greater self-control in bigger things. Start with simple acts of self-restraint, and work up to more challenging areas.

• Actionable Step: Practice self-control by limiting small indulgences, such as sweets, caffeine, or unnecessary spending. This builds the muscle of self-discipline, which will help in more significant areas like temptation or long-term goals.

• Galatians 5:22-23 (NKJV): “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law.” Self-control is a fruit of the Spirit that grows as we practice it in daily life.

It’s easy to become discouraged if you’re only focused on long-term results. Acknowledge and celebrate small victories along the way to stay motivated.

• Actionable Step: When you accomplish a goal or stick to a discipline for a certain period, reward yourself with something meaningful—whether it’s a small treat, a break, or a time of reflection and gratitude.

• 1 Corinthians 9:24 (NKJV): “Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may obtain it.” Recognizing progress along the way encourages perseverance and motivates you to continue toward your final goal.

Ultimately, self-discipline is not about relying solely on your strength, but on God's grace. Ask the Lord to help you develop discipline, giving you the strength to overcome weaknesses and the wisdom to prioritize what matters most.

• Philippians 4:13 (NKJV): “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Depend on God’s strength to help you grow in discipline, especially when things seem too difficult.

Developing self-discipline is a process that requires intentional action and reliance on God’s grace. By setting clear goals, creating a structured routine, developing healthy habits, and seeking accountability, you can grow in self-discipline and make progress in your personal and spiritual life. Keep focusing on small, practical steps while relying on God's strength and guidance through it all.

**(5:00 – 1:00)**

Doctrine Today

Church Role in Discerning God’s Will

**(1:00)**

How are you doing at keeping those hard tasks on your schedule? Doing the right thing is seldom easy and it often takes more effort that we would like. But it is worth it do be disciplined and maintain our focus. When you fail, start over, persistence is a big part of discipline!

– “Thank you for listening today!

-If you enjoyed the show you can listen to all the past shows wherever you listen to podcasts. A good place to start is at runwithhorses.net. You can also write me at norman@runwithhorses.net or leave a comment on the Run With Horses Podcast facebook page.

May we all be found faithful, ready, and living for eternity. Until next time, keep your eyes on Jesus and never stop running."

**(00:00)**

Podcast: rwh.podbean.com Website: www.runwithhorses.net Youtube: https://youtube.com/@rwhpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RWHpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rwh_podcast Twitter: https://twitter.com/RWH_podcast

Author pages with links to all books on Amazon.

https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BCSDDVLB – James Norman Smith

https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BMGW51FW – Susan Jane Smith

• Introduce the concept of Emotional Intelligence (EI) and its relevance in the Christian life, particularly in leadership and discipleship.

• Definition of Emotional Intelligence: Emotional Intelligence is the ability to recognize, understand, and manage our own emotions and the emotions of others. It involves four key components:

  • Self-awareness: Recognizing one's emotions and their impact.

  • Self-control: Managing and controlling one's emotional responses.

  • Empathy: Understanding the emotions of others and responding appropriately.

  • Compassion: The desire to help

  • Social skills: Building relationships and communicating effectively.

  Example:

  • Self-awareness: A disciple maker who can recognize their frustration with a fellow believer and chooses to address it in a godly manner rather than reacting impulsively.

  • Empathy: Listening attentively to someone in pain, offering comfort as Christ would, instead of offering quick solutions or judgments.

• Biblical Example of Emotional Intelligence:

  • Jesus’ Emotional Intelligence: Jesus exhibited all four aspects of EI.

    • Self-awareness and Self-regulation: In Mark 14:34–36, Jesus shows emotional vulnerability, yet chooses God's will over His feelings.

      Mark 14: 32

    • Empathy, Compassion and Social Skills: Jesus empathized with people, showing compassion. In John 11:33–36, He wept with Mary and Martha at the death of Lazarus, showing deep emotional connection and compassion.

• Discipleship and Emotional Intelligence:

  • Emotional intelligence helps disciple makers understand the emotional state and needs of others. Effective disciple making requires patience, compassion, and the ability to manage one's own emotions.

  • Biblical Foundation:

    • Ephesians 4:2-3 –

      • This passage emphasizes emotional control (lowliness, gentleness) and empathy (bearing with one another).

  • Developing Relationships with Others: Jesus’ ministry was deeply relational, and He connected emotionally with people.

    • Matthew 9:36 –

    • Jesus ability to understand and connect was key to His effective ministry and discipleship.

• Practical Application for the Church:

  • Proverbs 15:1 –

  • Galatians 6:2 –

• Reflect on:

  • A time when they experienced emotional stress in ministry or discipleship.

  • How emotional intelligence (or lack thereof) impacted the outcome.

• Briefly recap the key points

• Self-awareness and Self-control:

  • James 1:19 –

    • Practice slowing down our reactions and reflecting before responding. Teach that self-awareness is about recognizing triggers and the emotions behind them.

    • Learn to listen WELL.

  • Psalm 139:23-24 –

    • Develop self-awareness through prayer, asking God to reveal any emotional blind spots.

  • Self-control through Scripture:

    • Galatians 5:22-23 –

      • Spiritual growth is the foundation of developing emotional intelligence.

      • These virtues align with the emotional self-control we need as Christians. Developing the fruit of the Spirit is key to emotional stability.

• Empathy:

  • Romans 12:15 –

    • Empathy requires actively engaging with others’ emotions, whether in joy or sorrow.

  • Philippians 2:4 –

    • Developing empathy requires intentionality—seeing and caring about others deeply.

    • Pause and ask yourself about the emotional state of other people. Consider WHY they feel they way they do. Seek Understanding.

• Social Skills:

  • Colossians 3:12-14 –

    • Social skills are rooted in humility and kindness, and effective communication flows out of a heart that is filled with love. Listen to understand!

    • Spend time with people. Look for opportunities to develop deep and lasting relationships. Put their interests first!

• Practical Strategies for Developing EI:

  • Daily Reflection and Prayer: Incorporate a time of self-reflection each day to assess your emotional responses and ask the Holy Spirit for help.

  • Consider journaling your thoughts and addressing the way you responded to people throughout the day. Ask yourself if you could have responded in a way that better exhibits the fruit of the spirit.

  • Active Listening: Practice listening without responding immediately, making sure to validate the emotions of others. Learn to ask clarifying questions.

  • Accountability Partnerships: Form small groups or one-on-one accountability relationships to help one another grow in emotional maturity.

Doctrine of the Month

The Gospel and Ongoing Disciple Making

– “Thank you for listening today!

-If you enjoyed the show you can listen to all the past shows wherever you listen to podcasts. A good place to start is at runwithhorses.net. You can also write me at norman@runwithhorses.net or leave a comment on the Run With Horses Podcast facebook page.

May we all be found faithful, ready, and living for eternity. Until next time, keep your eyes on Jesus and never stop running."

Podcast: rwh.podbean.com Website: www.runwithhorses.net Youtube: https://youtube.com/@rwhpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RWHpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rwh_podcast Twitter: https://twitter.com/RWH_podcast

Author pages with links to all books on Amazon.

https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BCSDDVLB – James Norman Smith

https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BMGW51FW – Susan Jane Smith

Thank you for joining me today! “If you’re new here, you can check out past episodes at runwithhorses.net. As always, I appreciate your feedback, questions, and reviews!”

Confidence

I. Intro

- A. Definition of Confidence

- Confidence as trust or belief in God's work through us, not in our own abilities.

- B. Importance of Confidence for a Follower of Jesus

- Empowers boldness in sharing the gospel and teaching God’s Word.

- Provides strength to guide others in their spiritual growth.

II. The Foundation of Confidence: Trusting in God’s Strength

- A. Confidence in God’s Power, Not Ourselves

- Philippians 4:13

2 Corinthians 3:5

- B. The Role of the Holy Spirit

Acts 1:8

III. Confidence in the Word of God: The Source of Authority

- A. The Transformative Power of God’s Word

Isaiah 55:11

- B. Trusting God’s Promises in Discipleship

Matthew 28:18-20

2 Timothy 2:2

IV. Confidence in the Face of Challenges

- A. Overcoming Trials with God’s Confidence

Romans 8:37

- B. Assurance of God’s Presence and Support

Joshua 1:9

Matthew 28:20

V. Confidence in God’s Plan: Trusting in His Sovereignty

- A. Belief in God’s Control and Purpose

Romans 8:28

- B. Confidence in Discipleship Outcomes

1 Corinthians 3:6-7

VI. Confidence in Our Identity in Christ

- A. Knowing Our Identity in Christ

Ephesians 2:10

- B. Confidence in Our Calling as Disciple Makers

2 Corinthians 5:20

1 Peter 2:9

Developing Confidence

I. Building Confidence in God

A. Strengthening Your Relationship Through Prayer

- Regular prayer as a means to invite God into daily life.

- Philippians 4:6-7

- 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

B. Studying the Bible

- Deepening understanding of God's character and promises.

- 2 Timothy 3:16-17

- Psalm 119:105

C. Reflecting on Past Experiences

- Recognizing God’s past provisions to build future confidence.

- Deuteronomy 8:2

- Psalm 77:11-12

D. Surrounding Yourself with a Supportive Community

- Sharing experiences and receiving encouragement from others.

- Hebrews 10:24-25

- Proverbs 27:17

E. Trusting God's Timing

- Learning to trust in God’s perfect plan.

- Ecclesiastes 3:1

- Isaiah 40:31

F. Worship and Praise

- Focusing on God’s greatness and faithfulness.

- Psalm 95:1-2: "Oh come, let us sing to the Lord! Let us shout joyfully to the Rock of our salvation. Let us come before His presence with thanksgiving; Let us shout joyfully to Him with psalms."

- Psalm 100:4-5

G. Living Out Your Faith

- Acting on God’s Word to strengthen faith.

- James 1:22

- Matthew 5:16

H. Learning from the Faith of Others

- Drawing inspiration from biblical stories and testimonies of believers.

- Hebrews 12:1

- Romans 15:4

These verses can serve as a foundation for building confidence in God through various aspects of faith and practice.

Find confidence in God’s power, promises, and presence.

2 Timothy 1:7

Doctrine of the Month

Community and the Spiritual Growth of a Christian

-If you enjoyed the show you can listen to all the past shows wherever you listen to podcasts. A good place to start is at runwithhorses.net. You can also write me at norman@runwithhorses.net or leave a comment on the Run With Horses Podcast facebook page.

May we all be found faithful, ready, and living for eternity. Until next time, keep your eyes on Jesus and never stop running."

Podcast: rwh.podbean.com Website: www.runwithhorses.net Youtube: https://youtube.com/@rwhpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RWHpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rwh_podcast Twitter: https://twitter.com/RWH_podcast

Author pages with links to all books on Amazon.

https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BCSDDVLB – James Norman Smith

https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BMGW51FW – Susan Jane Smith

What is self-awareness? According to the Oxford Dictionary:

conscious knowledge of one's own character, feelings, motives, and desires.

Character:

Feelings:

Motives:

Desires:

• Have you ever stopped to truly reflect on how you see yourself and how that compares to how God sees you?

• Self-awareness is vital for spiritual growth and understanding God’s will for our lives. It’s actually pretty important as a human traveling through life with other humans! There is often a tension between how we see ourselves, how others see us and how God sees us.

1. Definition of Self-Awareness:

   • The ability to see and acknowledge one’s thoughts, feelings, actions, and motivations in the light of God’s truth.

   • Understanding our identity in Christ, our strengths, weaknesses, and the call God has on our lives.

2. Scriptural Foundation:

   • Psalm 139:23-24:

     •  

   • Romans 12:3:

     • Self-awareness requires humility, recognizing both our value in Christ and the need for personal growth. We often focus on how we compare to those around us rather than to Jesus and who He calls us to be. Pride is easy when we look at others, humility is easy when we focus on Jesus.

1. Daily Reflection and Prayer:

   • James 1:5:

     •  

2. Engage with Scripture:

   • Hebrews 4:12:

3. Seek Accountability and Fellowship:

   • Proverbs 27:17:

4. Practicing Confession and Repentance:

   • 1 John 1:9:

1. For Personal Growth in Christlikeness:

   • 2 Corinthians 13:5:

     •  

   • Philippians 3:12-14:

     •  

2. For Serving Others with Humility:

   • Philippians 2:3-4:

     •  

3. For Glorifying God:

   • 1 Corinthians 10:31

Doctrine of the Month

Understanding Theology, is crucial for discipleship because it shapes how we relate to God and others, guiding our lives and actions towards imitating Christ.

May we all be found faithful, ready, and living for eternity. Until next time, keep your eyes on Jesus and never stop running."

Podcast: rwh.podbean.com Website: www.runwithhorses.net Youtube: https://youtube.com/@rwhpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RWHpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rwh_podcast Twitter: https://twitter.com/RWH_podcast

Author pages with links to all books on Amazon.

https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BCSDDVLB – James Norman Smith

https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BMGW51FW – Susan Jane Smith

1. The Promise of Eternal Life

2. Why Eternity Matters

1. Eternal Perspective on Temporal Life

2. Living with an Eternal Purpose

1. Prioritizing God's Kingdom Over Earthly Concerns

2. Investing in the Eternal: The Rewards of Faithful Service

3. Living a Holy Life in View of Eternity

1. The Call to Evangelize and Make Disciples

2. Investing in People for Eternal Impact

1. The Assurance of Eternal Life

2. The Comfort of the Future Life

1. A Call to Live in View of Eternity

2. The Motivation to Live for Christ Today

Every moment counts in light of eternity. Make choices that reflect the reality of eternal life, live with purpose, share the gospel, and find your hope in God’s promises. Evaluate their life regularly, look to live in ways that honor God and reflect His eternal purposes.

8.

Doctrine Focus

End Times

Podcast: rwh.podbean.com Website: www.runwithhorses.net Youtube: https://youtube.com/@rwhpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RWHpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rwh_podcast Twitter: https://twitter.com/RWH_podcast

Author pages with links to all books on Amazon.

https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BCSDDVLB – James Norman Smith

https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BMGW51FW – Susan Jane Smith

How Temptation Works

Temptation works through a process that often involves desire, opportunity, and choice. It’s important to understand how it operates in order to resist it effectively. Below is a breakdown of how temptation works, from a Biblical perspective:

In summary, temptation works through the following stages:

1. Desire: Temptation begins with internal cravings or desires for things outside of God's will.

2. Enticement: Temptation presents those desires as appealing and promises fulfillment.

3. Choice: The individual faces a decision on whether to act on the desire or to resist it.

4. Sin: Yielding to temptation results in sin and disobedience to God.

5. Consequences: The end result of sin is death and separation from God.

Avoiding Triggers: Preventing Temptation

Doctrine of the Month

The Holy Spirit’s Role in Disciple Making.

Podcast: rwh.podbean.com Website: www.runwithhorses.net Youtube: https://youtube.com/@rwhpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RWHpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rwh_podcast Twitter: https://twitter.com/RWH_podcast

Author pages with links to all books on Amazon.

https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BCSDDVLB – James Norman Smith

https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BMGW51FW – Susan Jane Smith

A "spring cleaning" for your life is a fantastic way to reset and refresh your routine, mindset, and environment. Where do most people begin and how can we make that a little more intentional as a disciple of Jesus? Here are some thoughts:

• This is a reoccurring theme for many of us. The things we surround ourselves with can eventually control us. Take charge and evaluate everything in light of eternity and it’s usefulness as a follower of Jesus.

   

• Building and maintaining healthy habits is a large part of staying consistent in your spiritual life. What habits do you have, What habits do you need to develop?

   

• Reduce and remove digital distractions.. Today’s screen focused world can be a hindrance to an authentic relationship with Jesus. Evaluate your screen time and use it wisely.

   

• Strive to be a good steward of your finances.

   

• What is the big picture of what God is doing in your life? How is He growing you and what is He challenging you to become? Compare your goals with His goals for you!

   

• Finances aren’t the only place that we need to be good stewards! Your health matters. Are you taking care of the level of health that God has given you?

   

• Relationships are a big part of our spiritual life. We need relationships with others and they need us. Be intentional and keep Jesus at the center of all of your relationships.

   

   

• Don’t stagnate physically, mentally or spiritually. Read good books on topics that will help you grow. The spiritual disciplines are always a place you can invest and reap rewards.

   

• Romans 12:1-2 Renew your mind.

• Maintain time in God’s Word and really spend some time meditating on it, asking God to make His thoughts your thoughts.

   

• You surrounds can really affect your emotional and mental state which impacts your spiritual life. Spend some time cleaning up your space physically to help you focus spiritually.

   

You can do a personal spiritual evaluation by reflecting on key principles and practices found in Scripture. This evaluation is not about perfection, but about growth in faith, love, and obedience to God. Here’s a step-by-step guide for conducting a spiritual evaluation:

• Prayer and Devotion: Evaluate how consistent and sincere your personal time with God is. Are you seeking to commune with Him daily in prayer and through His Word? (Matthew 6:6, James 4:8) Do you have a consistent time or do you need to plan one?

• Heart Check: Ask yourself: Do you truly desire to know God more deeply, or have other distractions and idols taken His place? (Deuteronomy 6:5, Matthew 22:37)

• Bible Reading and Study: How regularly are you engaging with the Scriptures? Are you reading to grow, to learn, and to obey, or simply out of obligation? (Psalm 119:11, 2 Timothy 3:16-17) Are you consistently reading through Scripture? NT every year as a beginning goal.

• Obedience to the Word: Do you apply God’s Word to your life? Is your obedience rooted in love for Christ and a desire to honor Him? (John 14:15, James 1:22)

• Confession and Repentance: Are you regularly confessing sins and repenting? Acknowledge areas where sin has a hold and work on turning away from them. (1 John 1:9, Romans 12:1-2)

• Humility and Accountability: Are you humble enough to admit areas where you need growth, and do you have accountability in your life? (Proverbs 27:17, James 5:16)

• Love for Others: Do you love others as Christ has loved you? Evaluate your relationships with family, friends, and fellow believers. (John 13:34-35, 1 John 4:7-21) Are you meeting new people regularly?

• Forgiveness and Grace: Are you quick to forgive and show grace, or do you harbor bitterness or unforgiveness? (Ephesians 4:32, Matthew 18:21-22) Are YOU the center of your relationships or is Jesus?

• Service and Ministry: Are you actively serving others in the church and in your community? God has gifted each believer for the building up of His body. (1 Corinthians 12:4-7, Ephesians 4:11-16) Where are you using your gifts?

• Fellowship: Do you prioritize fellowship with other believers? Being a part of the body of Christ means engaging with the community of believers, not just individually. (Hebrews 10:24-25, Acts 2:42-47)

• Sharing the Gospel: Are you actively sharing your faith and seeking opportunities to tell others about Christ? Evaluate your willingness to be a light in the world. (Matthew 28:18-20, Acts 1:8)

• Living as a Witness: Is your life reflecting the character of Christ to those around you? Are others able to see Christ in your actions and attitude? (Matthew 5:14-16, 1 Peter 3:15)

• Fruit of the Spirit: How are you reflecting the fruit of the Spirit in your life? (Galatians 5:22-23) Are you putting effort into your spiritual growth? How?

• Spiritual Growth: Do you see areas where God has grown you, but also areas where you need to mature? (2 Peter 3:18, Philippians 1:9-11)

• Time and Resources: How are you managing your time, talents, and treasures? Are your priorities in line with God’s kingdom purposes? (Matthew 6:33, 1 Corinthians 10:31)

• Generosity and Stewardship: Are you generous with what God has entrusted to you, not only in finances but also in your time and abilities? (2 Corinthians 9:6-8, Luke 6:38)

• Holy Spirit’s Role: Invite the Holy Spirit to search your heart, convict you of any unconfessed sin, and guide you into truth. Trust in the Spirit’s work to help you grow in Christ-likeness. (Psalm 139:23-24, John 16:13)

• Response to Conviction: How do you respond when the Holy Spirit convicts you? Are you willing to obey, even when it is difficult? (Romans 8:14, Galatians 5:16-18)

• Action Plan: Based on your evaluation, set specific, measurable, attainable goals for your spiritual growth. These could involve areas of Bible study, prayer, service, or outreach.

• Accountability: Consider seeking an accountability partner or mentor who can help you stay focused on your growth and provide support. (Proverbs 27:17, Galatians 6:1-2)

Podcast: rwh.podbean.com Website: www.runwithhorses.net Youtube: https://youtube.com/@rwhpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RWHpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rwh_podcast Twitter: https://twitter.com/RWH_podcast

Author pages with links to all books on Amazon.

https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BCSDDVLB – James Norman Smith

https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BMGW51FW – Susan Jane Smith

When You Feel Like Quitting what do you do. Everyone gets beat down occasionally. When you do, how do you handle it?

Welcome to Run With Horses! My name is Norman and my goal is to help you thrive as a follower of Jesus. The spiritual life is both incredibly simple and potentially the most difficult part of your life. God invites you to live intentionally and on His mission. It’s very cool that we can do that together!

Thank you for joining me today! “If you’re new here, you can check out past episodes at runwithhorses.net. As always, I appreciate your feedback, questions, and reviews!”

Dealing with Disappointment and Discouragement Biblically

- Or, What to do when you fell like quitting!

• Opening Quote: “When you feel like quitting, remember why you started.”

• Key Idea: Everyone faces disappointment and discouragement at some point, whether in ministry, relationships, or personal struggles. However, God’s Word gives us perspective on how to face these moments with faith and perseverance.

• Scripture Reference: Psalm 34:18 – “The Lord is near to those who have a broken heart, And saves such as have a contrite spirit.”

  • Disappointment is not something we should deny or try to avoid. It’s a reality of life, but God is close to the brokenhearted. He doesn’t leave us in our despair.

  • No one’s life goes like they expect or really want it to. Pain and suffering are a reality.

• Example: David – In many of his psalms, David expressed deep feelings of despair and discouragement, but he also demonstrated turning to God in those times (e.g., Psalm 42).

   

   

• Scripture Reference: Galatians 6:9 – “And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.”

  • In the midst of discouragement, we must remind ourselves that God’s promises are true. We may not see the fruit immediately, but the reward is coming if we remain faithful.

• Example: Paul – Despite constant opposition, Paul continued in his ministry, reminding others to press on despite the trials (2 Corinthians 4:6-10).

• Scripture Reference: Philippians 3:13-14 – “Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.”

  • The Apostle Paul, despite his challenges and struggles, kept his eyes on the prize—the call of God in Christ Jesus. Our purpose in Christ should be the motivation to keep going.

• Example: Moses – Leading the Israelites out of Egypt was a long and challenging journey, but Moses remained focused on the ultimate promise of the land of Canaan (Hebrews 11:24-26).

• Scripture Reference: Isaiah 41:10 – “Fear not, for I am with you; Be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, Yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.”

  • God’s faithfulness never wavers. Even in moments of discouragement, we are reminded that He is with us, strengthening and helping us through the journey.

• Example: Elijah – After his great victory on Mount Carmel, Elijah faced deep discouragement and wanted to quit. Yet God met him where he was and reassured him that He was still at work (1 Kings 19:1-18).

• Scripture Reference: Romans 8:28 – “And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.”

  • It’s easy to feel discouraged when the timing doesn’t seem right. But we can trust that God’s timing is perfect, and He is working everything for our good in His sovereign plan.

• Example: Joseph – Joseph’s journey was filled with disappointment and discouragement (betrayal, false accusations, imprisonment), yet God was with him, working through his circumstances for a greater purpose (Genesis 50:19-20).

• Scripture Reference: Matthew 11:28-30 – “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.”

  • In our moments of discouragement, Jesus invites us to find rest in Him, knowing that He understands our struggles and that He is with us through them.

• Example: The Disciples in the Storm – When the disciples were in the storm, Jesus was with them, and He calmed the storm. Jesus is with us in our storms (Matthew 14:22-33).

• Scripture Reference: 2 Corinthians 12:9 – “But He said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.”

  • In our weaknesses, we are reminded that God’s grace and power are enough. It is through our weakness that His strength is made evident.

• Example: Paul’s Thorn in the Flesh – Paul dealt with a persistent difficulty (the thorn in his flesh), but he learned to rely on God’s grace, which gave him strength to continue (2 Corinthians 12:7-10).

• Scripture Reference: Hebrews 10:24-25 – “And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching.”

  • Encouragement is a key part of walking through discouragement. God has placed us in community so that we can support one another and remind each other of the hope we have in Christ.

• Example: Barnabas and Paul – Barnabas, known as the “Son of Encouragement,” helped Paul when others were fearful of him, reminding him of God’s calling and purpose in his life (Acts 9:26-27).

• Scripture Reference: 2 Timothy 4:7-8 – “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give to me on that Day, and not to me only but also to all who have loved His appearing.”

  • Paul’s words serve as a powerful reminder that despite all the struggles, the end of the journey is worth it. There is a crown of righteousness for those who press on, keeping their eyes on Jesus.

– “Thank you for listening today!

-If you enjoyed the show you can listen to all the past shows wherever you listen to podcasts. A good place to start is at runwithhorses.net. You can also write me at norman@runwithhorses.net or leave a comment on the Run With Horses Podcast facebook page.

May we all be found faithful, ready, and living for eternity. Until next time, keep your eyes on Jesus and never stop running."

Podcast: rwh.podbean.com Website: www.runwithhorses.net Youtube: https://youtube.com/@rwhpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RWHpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rwh_podcast Twitter: https://twitter.com/RWH_podcast

Author pages with links to all books on Amazon.

https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BCSDDVLB – James Norman Smith

https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BMGW51FW – Susan Jane Smith

2 Peter 3, speaks powerfully about the end of the world, the second coming of Christ, and how we should live knowing the judgement is coming. Do you think about how to live with the reality that one day this world will be destroyed and we will stand before God to give an account for our lives?

[2 Peter 3:1-10]

Peter reminds us that God's judgment is not delayed; God is patient, wanting no one to perish but all to come to repentance (v. 9). The day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night, unexpected, and it will bring sudden destruction. And it is certain.

We see here that Peter emphasizes something we must remember: Just because God hasn't acted yet doesn’t mean He won’t. God’s timing is different from ours. We may think He’s slow, but He is actually giving us time to turn to Him.

[2 Peter 3:11-14]

In verses 11-14, Peter shifts the focus from the world’s end to our responsibility as Christians. Since all these things are going to be destroyed, Peter asks, ‘What manner of persons ought you to be in holy conduct and godliness?’ This is a profound question for us today. If we know that one day the world as we know it will end, and we will stand before God, how should we live in the here and now?

1. Living with Hope and Patience

2. Pursuing Holiness

3. Being Ready for Christ’s Return

[2 Peter 3:15-16]

The church plays a crucial role in preparing believers for the coming judgment. We’re not just here to be entertained or to consume religious content. We are here to be equipped, to grow in godliness, to be His body at work on His mission in the world and to live with the constant awareness that Christ could return at any moment.

As members of the church, we need to encourage one another to stay focused on eternal truths. We need to challenge one another to live holy lives, to persevere in faith, and to continue spreading the gospel to those who don’t know Christ. There is no more important mission for us.

1. Prioritize What Lasts

2. Live with Urgency in Sharing the Gospel

3. Cultivate a Heart of Holiness

4. Serve Others in Light of the Coming Judgment

5. Live Peacefully and Blamelessly

1. The Holy Spirit Empowers Us to Be Witnesses of Jesus

2. The Holy Spirit Equips Us with Spiritual Gifts for Ministry

3. The Holy Spirit Guides Us in Discipling Others

4. The Holy Spirit Enables Us to Bear Fruit in Discipleship

5. The Holy Spirit Strengthens Us for the Work of Discipleship

• Matthew 28:20 – “...and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age. Amen.”

• The Holy Spirit is with us, empowering us to live out our calling to make disciples and bring others into the Kingdom of God.

– “Thank you for listening today! Giving Thanks should be a daily part of the life of every disciple of Jesus. We have so much to be thankful for, we just so easily are distracted by the details of life.Be intentional, be thankful!

-If you enjoyed the show you can listen to all the past shows wherever you listen to podcasts. A good place to start is at runwithhorses.net. You can also write me at norman@runwithhorses.net or leave a comment on the Run With Horses Podcast facebook page.

May we all be found faithful, ready, and living for eternity. Until next time, keep your eyes on Jesus and never stop running."

Podcast: rwh.podbean.com Website: www.runwithhorses.net Youtube: https://youtube.com/@rwhpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RWHpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rwh_podcast Twitter: https://twitter.com/RWH_podcast

Author pages with links to all books on Amazon.

https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BCSDDVLB – James Norman Smith

https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BMGW51FW – Susan Jane Smith

—

**(28:00)** Today I’m encouraging you to elevate other people. Why should you do that? How do you do that? That my friends, is the topic of the day!

Welcome to Run With Horses! My name is Norman and my goal is to help you thrive as a follower of Jesus. The spiritual life is both incredibly simple and potentially the most difficult part of your life. God invites you to live intentionally and on His mission. It’s very cool that we can do that together!

Thank you for joining me today! “If you’re new here, you can check out past episodes at runwithhorses.net. As always, I appreciate your feedback, questions, and reviews!”

**(27:00 – 23:00)**

Caregivers Corner

**(23:00 – 0:00)* * PART 1

1. Biblical Mandate to Consider Others:

2. Part of God’s Design for the Church:

3. Spiritual Growth Through Mutual Sharpening:

1. Fellow Believers:

2. Disciples You’re Mentoring:

3. Those in Need of Encouragement:

1. Through Words of Encouragement:

2. Through Intentional Relational Discipleship:

3. Through Acts of Service and Sacrifice:

4. Through Accountability and Loving Correction:

5. Consider how to help them succeed in life, faith and ministry

**(00:00) END PART 1**

**(27:00 – 5:00) BEGIN PART 2**

1. The Church as an Equipping Body:

2. The Great Commission’s Call to Evangelism:

3. Edification as a Community Responsibility:

1. Teaching the Gospel Clearly:

2. Training in Personal Evangelism:

3. Cultivating an Outward-Focused Heart:

1. Creating a Culture of Discipleship:

2. Encouraging Mutual Accountability:

3. Teaching and Modeling Spiritual Disciplines:

1. Sharpening Through Authentic Relationships:

2. Balancing Grace and Truth:

3. The Church’s Role in Fostering This Environment:

**(5:00 – 1:00)**

Bibliology – Preservation of Scripture

Is There a God? How do we respond?

**(1:00)** The spiritual journey may seem long and slow sometimes, but don’t give up. Keep on putting one foot in front of the other and get up when you fall down. You will face stumbling blocks but God is able to take you through them and even to strengthen you along the way. – “Thank you for listening today! Giving Thanks should be a daily part of the life of every disciple of Jesus. We have so much to be thankful for, we just so easily are distracted by the details of life. Be intentional, be thankful!

-If you enjoyed the show you can listen to all the past shows wherever you listen to podcasts. A good place to start is at runwithhorses.net. You can also write me at norman@runwithhorses.net or leave a comment on the Run With Horses Podcast facebook page. Take time today to pause and thank God for His work in your life and keep running.

**(00:00)**

Podcast: rwh.podbean.com Website: www.runwithhorses.net Youtube: https://youtube.com/@rwhpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RWHpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rwh_podcast Twitter: https://twitter.com/RWH_podcast

Author pages with links to all books on Amazon.

https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BCSDDVLB – James Norman Smith

https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BMGW51FW – Susan Jane Smith

—

**(28:00)** Today I’m asking the question, “What is hindering your spiritual growth?” We have all the resources we need, God is doing His part, so why do we still struggle?

Welcome to Run With Horses! My name is Norman and my goal is to help you thrive as a follower of Jesus. The spiritual life is both incredibly simple and potentially the most difficult part of your life. God invites you to live intentionally and on His mission. It’s very cool that we can do that together!

Thank you for joining me today! “If you’re new here, you can check out past episodes at runwithhorses.net. As always, I appreciate your feedback, questions, and reviews!”

**(27:00 – 23:00)**

Caregivers Corner

**(23:00 – 0:00)* * PART 1

There are several common hindrances to spiritual growth that Christians face. These obstacles can be internal or external, but all of them can slow or even stagnate a believer's growth in Christ.

To grow spiritually, Christians must be intentional about:

• Developing strong spiritual habits (Bible study, prayer, fasting, worship, service).

• Staying accountable in the local church through fellowship and discipleship.

• Relying on the Holy Spirit to overcome sin and distractions.

• Being diligent in faith despite trials and temptations.

**(00:00) END PART 1**

**(27:00 – 5:00) BEGIN PART 2**

A church can easily drift from its biblical purpose if it is not intentional about staying focused on God's mission. Some of the common hindrances that prevent a church from remaining faithful to its biblical purpose:

For a church to stay faithful to its biblical purpose, it must: ✅ Stay rooted in sound doctrine and biblical teaching. ✅ Keep discipleship and evangelism as the central focus. ✅ Equip and release believers for ministry, not just entertain them. ✅ Commit to prayer and dependence on the Holy Spirit. ✅ Uphold godly leadership and unity in the church

**(5:00 – 1:00)**

Bibliology – Preservation of Scripture

**(1:00)** The spiritual journey may seem long and slow sometimes, but don’t give up. Keep on putting one foot in front of the other and get up when you fall down. You will face stumbling blocks but God is able to take you through them and even to strengthen you along the way. – “Thank you for listening today! Giving Thanks should be a daily part of the life of every disciple of Jesus. We have so much to be thankful for, we just so easily are distracted by the details of life. Be intentional, be thankful!

-If you enjoyed the show you can listen to all the past shows wherever you listen to podcasts. A good place to start is at runwithhorses.net. You can also write me at norman@runwithhorses.net or leave a comment on the Run With Horses Podcast facebook page. Take time today to pause and thank God for His work in your life and keep running.

**(00:00)**

If you want to support the Run With Horses Podcast and Radio Show, the best way you can do that is by telling other people about it and leaving a review wherever you listen to podcasts. Another way is by checking out our books. Our goal is to support your spiritual growth in any way we can. A link to each of our author pages on Amazon is in the show notes. You can find all our shows with links to the most popular podcast apps at rwh.podbean.com. Thanks for joining us on the journey!

https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BCSDDVLB – James Norman Smith

https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BMGW51FW – Susan Jane Smith

Podcast: rwh.podbean.com Website: www.runwithhorses.net Youtube: https://youtube.com/@rwhpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RWHpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rwh_podcast Twitter: https://twitter.com/RWH_podcast

Author pages with links to all books on Amazon.

https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BCSDDVLB – James Norman Smith

https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BMGW51FW – Susan Jane Smith

—

**(28:00)** Today we continue our survey of the spiritual disciplines.

Welcome to Run With Horses! My name is Norman and my goal is to help you thrive as a follower of Jesus. The spiritual life is both incredibly simple and potentially the most difficult part of your life. God invites you to live intentionally and on His mission. It’s very cool that we can do that together!

Thank you for joining me today! “If you’re new here, you can check out past episodes at runwithhorses.net. As always, I appreciate your feedback, questions, and reviews!”

**(27:00 – 23:00)**

Caregivers Corner

Stages of Spiritual Growth – Questions to Ponder Young Adult and Parent

**(23:00 – 0:00)* * PART 1

Solitude, silence, fasting, simplicity, meditation, Study, worship, prayer, fellowship, service.

• Fellowship : a deep, spiritual, and relational bond among believers in Christ, united through the Holy Spirit.

• Fellowship is often undervalued as a spiritual discipline but it is essential for Christian growth, accountability, and encouragement. Hebrews 10:24-25 - 24 And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, 25 not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.

  1: Biblical Foundation of Fellowship

• Acts 2:42-47 (NKJV)

  "And they continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in prayers. Then fear came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were done through the apostles. Now all who believed were together, and had all things in common, and sold their possessions and goods, and divided them among all, as anyone had need. So continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they ate their food with gladness and simplicity of heart, praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily those who were being saved."

  • Fellowship was not just social but an intentional, spiritual practice.

  • Community: teaching, breaking bread, prayer, and sharing in each other’s needs.

• 1 John 1:3 (NKJV)

  "That which we have seen and heard we declare to you, that you also may have fellowship with us; and truly our fellowship is with the Father and with His Son Jesus Christ."

  • Fellowship with one another is rooted in our fellowship with God the Father and Jesus Christ.

  • It’s not just about socializing; it’s about participation in the life of God through Christ.

• Hebrews 10:24-25 (NKJV)

  "And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching."

  • Fellowship is a necessary part of Christian life because it encourages us to love one another and perform good works.

  • Regular gathering in worship and fellowship for mutual encouragement.

• Galatians 6:1-2 (NKJV)

  "Brethren, if a man is overtaken in any trespass, you who are spiritual restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness, considering yourself lest you also be tempted. Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ."

  • Fellowship involves mutual care, helping each other through struggles, and bearing one another’s burdens.

• 1 Corinthians 12:4-7 (NKJV)

  "There are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. There are differences of ministries, but the same Lord. And there are diversities of activities, but it is the same God who works all in all. But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to each one for the profit of all."

  • Fellowship involves the active use of spiritual gifts to build up the body of Christ.

  • Not isolating one’s spiritual gifts but using them in the context of community for the mutual edification of all believers.

• Romans 12:10 (NKJV)

  "Be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love, in honor giving preference to one another."

• Galatians 5:13 (NKJV)

  "For you, brethren, have been called to liberty; only do not use liberty as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another."

• Ephesians 4:2-3 (NKJV)

  "With all lowliness and gentleness, with long-suffering, bearing with one another in love, endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace."

• Colossians 3:13 (NKJV)

  "Bearing with one another, and forgiving one another, if anyone has a complaint against another; even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do."

  • We all have a call to "one another" living: love one another, serve one another, bear with one another, and forgive one another.

  • These relational commands can only truly be lived out within the community of believers. Fellowship, in community, is where we practice these commands.

• Proverbs 27:17 (NKJV)

  "As iron sharpens iron, So a man sharpens the countenance of his friend."

  • Fellowship in community provides the context for mutual sharpening and growth.

  • Accountability, prayer, correction, and encouragement are critical in the spiritual formation of every body of believers.

• Romans 12:10 (NKJV)

  "Be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love, in honor giving preference to one another."

  • Because we are all so busy, making fellowship a priority is important, creating opportunities for one-on-one and group connection.

• Acts 2:46 (NKJV)

  "So continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they ate their food with gladness and simplicity of heart."

  • Fellowship is deeply connected to shared meals and hospitality in the early church.

    What are practical ways this could be applied today?

• Matthew 18:20 (NKJV)

  "For where two or three are gathered together in My name, I am there in the midst of them."

  • Prayer meetings, small groups, and discussing Scripture are ways to cultivate deeper fellowship.

• John 13:34-35 (NKJV)

  "A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another."

  • Fellowship serves as a witness to the world of God's love, drawing others into the faith through the community of believers. Our relationship with each other draws others in.

• Philippians 1:5 (NKJV)

  "For your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now."

  • Fellowship is not just a local practice but a global reality for the church as a whole. Christians are united in the mission of spreading the gospel.

• Summarize: importance of fellowship as a spiritual discipline, its role in spiritual growth, and its impact on mission.

• How are your fellowship practices and how can you deepen your relationships with fellow believers.

• Make fellowship an intentional part of your Christian walk, both in personal relationships and in the broader church community.

**(00:00) END PART 1**

**(27:00 – 5:00) BEGIN PART 2**

**(00:00) END PART 1**

**(27:00 – 5:00) BEGIN PART 2**

**(5:00 – 1:00)**

The Mission of the Church

The mission is rooted in the Great Commission, the call to make disciples of all nations, as well as the call to love, serve, and witness to our communities.

The Great Commission The local church is primarily tasked with evangelizing and making disciples. Jesus gave this clear command in Matthew 28:19-20:

"Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age. Amen." (Matthew 28:19-20, NKJV)

This mission to go and make disciples is not just for individual Christians but for the collective body of Christ, the church. Every church, whether large or small, is called to be part of this global mission to spread the gospel.

The Church as a Witness The local church also serves as a witness of God's love, truth, and holiness to the world. Jesus said in Acts 1:8:

"But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth." (Acts 1:8, NKJV)

The local church's mission extends beyond its walls. It is called to bear witness to Christ, not just in its immediate community (Jerusalem), but also to the surrounding areas (Judea and Samaria), and even to the ends of the earth. This requires both local outreach and global mission efforts.

The Church as a People of Fellowship and Discipleship A central aspect of the local church's mission is fostering a community where believers can grow in their faith. In Acts 2:42, we see the early church’s commitment to fellowship and discipleship:

"And they continued steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in prayers." (Acts 2:42, NKJV)

Through teaching, fellowship, communion, and prayer, the church strengthens its members to live out their faith and equip them to serve in the mission of Christ. A local church is a place where Christians come together to grow deeper in their relationship with God and each other.

The Church as a People of Service The local church is also called to serve both its members and the surrounding community. In Galatians 6:10, Paul encourages the church to actively do good:

"Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith." (Galatians 6:10, NKJV)

This service is a practical outworking of the love of Christ. It involves caring for the needy, providing for the poor, and supporting those who are suffering. Serving within the church and in the wider community is part of the mission to represent Christ and His love in tangible ways.

Conclusion To sum it up, the local church has a clear and vital mission: to make disciples, to be witnesses of Christ, to foster fellowship and discipleship among believers, and to serve those in need. This mission is not just about activities; it’s about living out the gospel in every area of life. As we seek to fulfill this mission, we can be confident that Christ is with us every step of the way (Matthew 28:20).

**(1:00)** Philippians 1:6 – "...being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ." – “Thank you for listening today! Giving Thanks should be a daily part of the life of every disciple of Jesus. We have so much to be thankful for, we just so easily are distracted by the details of life.Be intentional, be thankful!

-If you enjoyed the show you can listen to all the past shows wherever you listen to podcasts. A good place to start is at runwithhorses.net. You can also write me at norman@runwithhorses.net or leave a comment on the Run With Horses Podcast facebook page. Take time today to pause and thank God for His work in your life and keep running.

**(00:00)**

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If you want to support the Run With Horses Podcast and Radio Show, the best way you can do that is by telling other people about it and leaving a review wherever you listen to podcasts. Another way is by checking out our books. Our goal is to support your spiritual growth in any way we can. A link to each of our author pages on Amazon is in the show notes. You can find all our shows with links to the most popular podcast apps at rwh.podbean.com. Thanks for joining us on the journey!

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Susan’s New book – Parenting Manual

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https://a.co/d/c7Y7F04

**(28:00)**

Today we consider the Spiritual Discipline of Study.

Welcome to Run With Horses! My name is Norman and my goal is to help you thrive as a follower of Jesus. The spiritual life is both incredibly simple and potentially the most difficult part of your life. God invites you to live intentionally and on His mission. It’s very cool that we can do that together!

Thank you for joining me today! “If you’re new here, you can check out past episodes at runwithhorses.net. As always, I appreciate your feedback, questions, and reviews!”

**(27:00 – 23:00)**

Stages of Spiritual Growth – Questions to Ponder

• Do you understand the Gospel and what Jesus has done for you?

• Do you feel connected to a church family?

• Do you know what it means to share your faith with others?

• Are you developing a regular habit of prayer and Bible reading?

• How are you learning to serve others in love?

• Do you understand why discipleship is important?

• What steps are you taking to grow in your ability to explain the Gospel?

**(23:00 – 0:00)* * PART 1**

• Purpose of Study: To know God and grow in spiritual maturity.

  • Key Scripture:

    • 2 Timothy 2:15: "Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth."

    • Hosea 4:6a: "My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge."

  • Importance of Study:

    • Strengthens our faith (Romans 10:17).

    • Equips us for every good work (2 Timothy 3:16-17).

    • Protects against false teaching (Acts 17:11, Ephesians 4:14).

• The Word of God:

  • Primary focus should be the Bible.

  • Key Scripture:

    • Psalm 119:105: "Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path."

    • Matthew 4:4: "It is written, ‘Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God.’"

• Supporting Resources:

  • Study guides, commentaries, and Bible dictionaries.

  • Church doctrinal statements and creeds (to understand Baptist distinctives).

• Key Topics to Include:

  • The nature of God, salvation, sanctification, and missions.

• Every Believer:

  • Spiritual growth is the responsibility of all Christians.

  • Key Scripture:

    • Colossians 3:16: "Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom, teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord."

    • 1 Peter 2:2: "As newborn babes, desire the pure milk of the word, that you may grow thereby."

• Special Responsibilities:

  • Teachers and leaders bear greater accountability in teaching and applying truth.

  • Key Scripture:

    • James 3:1: "My brethren, let not many of you become teachers, knowing that we shall receive a stricter judgment."

**(00:00) END PART 1**

**(27:00 – 5:00) BEGIN PART 2**

• The Grammatical-Historical-Literal Framework for Studying the Bible

• • Emphasize that Scripture is God-breathed (2 Timothy 3:16-17) and must be handled carefully (2 Timothy 2:15).

• Goal: Equip learners to study Scripture accurately and faithfully.

• Definition:

  • Grammatical: Focus on the language and structure of the text.

  • Historical: Consider the historical and cultural context.

  • Literal: Interpret according to the plain meaning of the text, unless clearly figurative.

• Key Scripture:

  • Nehemiah 8:8: "So they read distinctly from the book, in the Law of God; and they gave the sense, and helped them to understand the reading."

  • 2 Peter 1:20-21: "Knowing this first, that no prophecy of Scripture is of any private interpretation, for prophecy never came by the will of man, but holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit."

• Focus:

  • Analyze sentence structure, grammar, and word meanings.

• Practical Tools:

  • Use concordances and interlinear Bibles to study original Greek and Hebrew words.

  • Recognize literary devices like metaphors, similes, and hyperboles.

• Example:

  • Study "love" in 1 Corinthians 13, noting the Greek word agape for deeper understanding.

• Focus:

  • Understand the cultural, geographical, and historical context.

• Practical Tools:

  • Use Bible atlases, historical commentaries, and timelines.

  • Research customs and traditions relevant to the text.

• Example:

  • Explore the context of the Good Samaritan parable (Luke 10:25-37) to understand Jewish-Samaritan relations.

• Focus:

  • Take the text at face value unless the context suggests figurative language.

• Practical Tools:

  • Identify genre: poetry, narrative, prophecy, etc.

  • Compare Scripture with Scripture to clarify meaning.

• Example:

  • Interpret Genesis 1 as a literal account of creation, unless a figurative explanation is evident.

• Combining All Three Elements:

  • Example Passage: Study John 3:16 using all three approaches.

    • Grammatical: Analyze "believe" in Greek (pisteuo) to understand its depth.

    • Historical: Consider Nicodemus’ Jewish background and understanding.

    • Literal: Take the plain meaning of God’s promise of eternal life for believers.

• Practice Exercise:

  • Assign a passage for group study, using the framework to break down its meaning.

• Concordances: Strong's Concordance.

• Interlinear Bibles: Available on BibleHub or Blue Letter Bible.

• Historical Context: Holman Illustrated Bible Dictionary.

• Commentaries:

  • For beginners: Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary.

  • For advanced study: The Expositor's Bible Commentary.

• Reiterate the value of accurate Bible study for spiritual growth and understanding.

• Encourage consistent practice using the framework to build confidence in handling Scripture.

• Close with 2 Timothy 2:15 as a charge: "Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth."

• • Key Scripture:

    • 2 Peter 1:20-21: "Knowing this first, that no prophecy of Scripture is of any private interpretation, for prophecy never came by the will of man, but holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit."

    •  

• Practical Steps for Bible Study:

  • Pray for Understanding (Psalm 119:18).

  • Read the Passage Repeatedly (Joshua 1:8).

  • Observe: Look for key words, phrases, and structure.

  • Interpret: Use cross-references and study tools for clarification.

  • Apply: Determine how the passage affects your life and obedience to God.

• Think – God given ability

• Recommended Resources for Beginners:

  • A good study Bible (e.g., NKJV Study Bible).

  • Bible dictionaries (e.g., Holman Illustrated Bible Dictionary).

  • Introductory commentaries (e.g., Wiersbe's Expository Outlines on the Bible).

  • Online tools like BibleHub or Blue Letter Bible for concordances and interlinear studies.

  • Logos Bible software

**(5:00 – 1:00)**

Doctrine of the Month -

The Church Defined

Edification and the Local Church

Topic: A Baptist theological perspective on the leadership structure and responsibilities within the local church.

• Key Idea: Baptists hold to congregational governance under the Lordship of Christ, with two biblical offices: pastors/elders and deacons.

• Purpose: To explore the roles, qualifications, and functions of church leaders.

Scripture Reference: Colossians 1:18 "And He is the head of the body, the church, who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in all things He may have the preeminence."

• Christ is the ultimate authority, and leaders serve under His direction.

• The local church submits to His Lordship in all matters of faith and practice.

Scripture Reference: Ephesians 1:22-23 "And He put all things under His feet, and gave Him to be head over all things to the church, which is His body, the fullness of Him who fills all in all."

• Definition: Pastors (also called elders or overseers) are responsible for shepherding, teaching, and leading the church spiritually.

• Key Responsibilities: Preaching the Word, equipping the saints, and providing oversight.

Scripture References: 1 Timothy 3:1-7 "This is a faithful saying: If a man desires the position of a bishop, he desires a good work. A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, temperate, sober-minded, of good behavior, hospitable, able to teach; not given to wine, not violent, not greedy for money, but gentle, not quarrelsome, not covetous; one who rules his own house well, having his children in submission with all reverence (for if a man does not know how to rule his own house, how will he take care of the church of God?); not a novice, lest being puffed up with pride he fall into the same condemnation as the devil. Moreover he must have a good testimony among those who are outside, lest he fall into reproach and the snare of the devil."

1 Peter 5:2-3 "Shepherd the flock of God which is among you, serving as overseers, not by compulsion but willingly, not for dishonest gain but eagerly; nor as being lords over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock."

• Definition: Deacons are servants who support the practical needs of the church to free pastors for their primary roles.

• Key Responsibilities: Serving the congregation, addressing physical and administrative needs.

Scripture References: Acts 6:3-4 "Therefore, brethren, seek out from among you seven men of good reputation, full of the Holy Spirit and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business; but we will give ourselves continually to prayer and to the ministry of the word."

1 Timothy 3:8-13 "Likewise deacons must be reverent, not double-tongued, not given to much wine, not greedy for money, holding the mystery of the faith with a pure conscience. But let these also first be tested; then let them serve as deacons, being found blameless. Likewise, their wives must be reverent, not slanderers, temperate, faithful in all things. Let deacons be the husbands of one wife, ruling their children and their own houses well. For those who have served well as deacons obtain for themselves a good standing and great boldness in the faith which is in Christ Jesus."

• Definition: In Baptist churches, the congregation is the final authority under Christ.

• Members are responsible for affirming leaders, making key decisions, and maintaining doctrinal purity.

Scripture References: Acts 6:5 "And the saying pleased the whole multitude. And they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and the Holy Spirit, and Philip, Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas, a proselyte from Antioch."

Matthew 18:17 "And if he refuses to hear them, tell it to the church. But if he refuses even to hear the church, let him be to you like a heathen and a tax collector."

• Key Idea: Both pastors and deacons model servant leadership, following Christ’s example.

• Leadership in the church is about humility, service, and love for the body of Christ.

Scripture Reference: Mark 10:43-45 "Yet it shall not be so among you; but whoever desires to become great among you shall be your servant. And whoever of you desires to be first shall be slave of all. For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many."

• God has ordained pastors and deacons to serve and lead the church under Christ’s Lordship.

• Congregational participation ensures the church remains faithful to its mission.

• Call to action: Pray for your church leaders and actively support the work of the local church.

**(1:00)**

- “Thank you for listening today!

-If you enjoyed the show you can listen to all the past shows wherever you listen to podcasts. A good place to start is at runwithhorses.net. You can also write me at norman@runwithhorses.net or leave a comment on the Run With Horses Podcast facebook page. Take time today to pause and thank God for His work in your life and keep running.

**(00:00)**

Podcast: rwh.podbean.com

Website: www.runwithhorses.net

Youtube: https://youtube.com/@rwhpodcast

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RWHpodcast

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rwh_podcast

Twitter: https://twitter.com/RWH_podcast

Susan’s New book – Parenting Manual

https://a.co/d/8L7GWIo

Norman’s New book – Pursuing Godliness Together - It’s a practical, quick read!

https://a.co/d/c7Y7F04

**(28:00)**

Today we consider the Spiritual Discipline of

Welcome to Run With Horses! My name is Norman and my goal is to help you thrive as a follower of Jesus. The spiritual life is both incredibly simple and potentially the most difficult part of your life. God invites you to live intentionally and on His mission. It’s very cool that we can do that together!

Thank you for joining me today! “If you’re new here, you can check out past episodes at runwithhorses.net. As always, I appreciate your feedback, questions, and reviews!”

**(27:00 – 23:00)**

**(23:00 – 0:00)* * PART 1

1. Definition and Nature of Prayer

   • Prayer as communication with God: a dialogue, not a monologue.

   • Biblical definition:

2. Biblical Foundation of Prayer

   • Jesus’ teaching on prayer: (Matthew 6:6)

   • (Matthew 6:9-13).

   • (Matthew 21:22).

   • 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 (NKJV):

• • Philippians 4:6 (NKJV):

3. The Purpose of Prayer in Spiritual Growth

   • Acknowledging dependence on God: (Jeremiah 33:3).

   • Developing intimacy with God: (James 4:8).

   • Alignment with God’s will: (Matthew 6:10).

4. The Role of Prayer in a Growing Spiritual Life

   • Strengthening faith: (Jude 1:20).

   • Overcoming spiritual challenges: (Matthew 26:41).

   • Spiritual Growth: Discuss how prayer fosters a deeper relationship with God.

• • James 5:16 (NKJV):

  • Dependence on God: Emphasize prayer as an expression of reliance on God’s wisdom and strength. Proverbs 3:5-6 (NKJV):

  • Transformation: Explain how prayer transforms the believer’s heart and mind. Romans 12:2 (NKJV):

**(00:00) END PART 1**

**(27:00 – 5:00) BEGIN PART 2**

1. Practical Steps for Prayer

   • Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication (ACTS): Explain this model of prayer.

   • Begin with adoration and thanksgiving: (Psalm 100:4).

   • Confess sins: (1 John 1:9).

   • Bring petitions and intercessions: (Hebrews 4:16).

2. Combining Prayer with Other Spiritual Disciplines

   • Prayer and Bible reading: Meditate on Scripture and respond in prayer (e.g., Psalm 119:18).

   • Scriptural Prayers: Encourage using the Psalms and other scriptures as prayers. Psalm 51:10 (NKJV):

   • Prayer and fasting: Seek God’s guidance and clarity (e.g., Acts 13:2-3).

   • Prayer and worship: (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18).

3. Incorporating Prayer into Daily Life

   • Setting regular prayer times: (Psalm 55:17).

   • Praying throughout the day: (Ephesians 6:18).

   • Using prayer prompts or journals to stay consistent.

   • Routine and Spontaneity: Encourage setting aside specific times for prayer while also being open to spontaneous prayer throughout the day.

• • Prayer Journals: Suggest keeping a journal to track prayer requests and answers.

• Community Building: Highlight the importance of praying together as a church community. Acts 2:42 (NKJV):

**(5:00 – 1:00)**

Doctrine of the Month -

The Church Defined

Edification and the Local Church

**(1:00)**

- “Thank you for listening today!

-If you enjoyed the show you can listen to all the past shows wherever you listen to podcasts. A good place to start is at runwithhorses.net. You can also write me at norman@runwithhorses.net or leave a comment on the Run With Horses Podcast facebook page. Take time today to pause and thank God for His work in your life and keep running.

**(00:00)**

Podcast: rwh.podbean.com

Website: www.runwithhorses.net

Youtube: https://youtube.com/@rwhpodcast

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RWHpodcast

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rwh_podcast

Twitter: https://twitter.com/RWH_podcast

Susan’s New book – Parenting Manual

https://a.co/d/8L7GWIo

Norman’s New book – Pursuing Godliness Together - It’s a practical, quick read!

https://a.co/d/c7Y7F04

**(28:00)**

Today we consider the Spiritual Disciplines of Silence and Solitude, what they are and how to use them!

Welcome to Run With Horses! My name is Norman and my goal is to help you thrive as a follower of Jesus. The spiritual life is both incredibly simple and potentially the most difficult part of your life. God invites you to live intentionally and on His mission. It’s very cool that we can do that together!

Thank you for joining me today! “If you’re new here, you can check out past episodes at runwithhorses.net. As always, I appreciate your feedback, questions, and reviews!”

**(27:00 – 23:00)**

Caregiver’s Corner

**(23:00 – 0:00)* * PART 1

1. Definition of Silence and Solitude

• Silence: A spiritual discipline involving intentional quietness to hear God without external noise or distractions.

• Solitude: A spiritual practice of being alone with God for reflection, prayer, and listening.

  Deepening Relationship: Silence and solitude provide an opportunity to deepen one's relationship with God. In the quiet, distractions are minimized, allowing for a more focused and intimate communion with God.

   

2. Biblical Foundations

• Jesus' Example:

  • Mark 1:35: "Now in the morning, having risen a long while before daylight, He went out and departed to a solitary place; and there He prayed."

  • Luke 5:16: "So He Himself often withdrew into the wilderness and prayed."

• Elijah's Encounter with God:

  • 1 Kings 19:12: "And after the earthquake a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire; and after the fire a still small voice."

• David’s Meditations:

  • Psalm 62:1: "Truly my soul silently waits for God; from Him comes my salvation."

3. Theological Significance

• Silence and solitude create space to hear God’s voice and discern His will.

• They reflect dependence on God rather than on human activity.

• They align with humility and submission to God’s leading.

• Priesthood of all Believers – you can enter the presence of God!

4. Making a Space in the Noise

• Fighting Distraction: In today’s fast-paced, technology-driven society, the constant stream of information can be overwhelming. Regularly practicing solitude and silence helps Christians resist the cultural pressures of noise and distraction, allowing them to build a more profound spiritual life.

• Creating Space for God: The digital age has made it increasingly challenging to find moments of quiet. By intentionally setting aside time for solitude, Christians can reclaim their focus on God amidst the chaos of modern life.

5. Practical Examples of Silence and Solitude

• Morning devotion in a quiet room or outdoors.

• Retreats dedicated to prayer and reflection.

• Taking moments during the day to pause and seek God in silence.

• Listening to God: These practices create space to hear God's voice and discern His will. In a world filled with noise and busyness, silence allows believers to be more receptive to God's guidance and presence.

   

1. Tying Silence and Solitude to Other Disciplines

• Developing Spiritual Disciplines: Solitude is a key spiritual discipline that helps Christians grow in their faith. It encourages practices such as prayer, meditation, and Bible study, which are essential for spiritual maturity.

• Prayer: Silence prepares the heart to pray authentically and listen to God’s response.

  • Psalm 46:10: "Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!"

• Bible Reading: Solitude allows for focused study and meditation on God’s Word.

  • Joshua 1:8: "This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night."

• Meditation: Reflecting on Scripture in silence deepens understanding and application.

• Journaling: Writing out your lessons learned and questions that come up as you read and study God’s Word

2. Overcoming Challenges

• Addressing distractions: Practical tips for creating a quiet space.

• Struggles with being alone: Encouragement to view solitude as time with God.

3. Corporate Applications

• Encouraging church retreats focused on silence and prayer.

• Teaching congregations to incorporate moments of silence into worship services.

4. Spiritual Benefits of Silence and Solitude

• Clarity in decision-making. Aligning with God's Will: Silence and solitude help believers align their desires and actions with God's will, ensuring that their service is effective and God-honoring.

• Renewed strength and peace.

  • Isaiah 30:15: "For thus says the Lord God, the Holy One of Israel: ‘In returning and rest you shall be saved; in quietness and confidence shall be your strength.’"

• Deeper intimacy with God.

• Personal Reflection: Solitude offers a chance for self-examination and reflection on one's life and spiritual journey. It allows believers to assess their actions, thoughts, and motivations in light of their faith.

• Repentance and Renewal: In the quiet, individuals can confront their sins and shortcomings, leading to repentance and spiritual renewal.

• Physical and Spiritual Rest: Silence and solitude provide rest for both the body and the soul. Solitude provides a necessary break from the busyness of life, allowing for both physical rest and spiritual rejuvenation. As noted in Psalm 23:2-3, God leads His people beside still waters to restore their souls

• Peace and Clarity: These practices can bring peace and clarity, helping believers to navigate life's challenges with a calm and focused mind.

• Equipping for Ministry: Just as Jesus used times of solitude to prepare for His ministry, followers of Jesus can use these times to equip themselves for service. It is a time to seek God's strength and wisdom for the tasks ahead.

5. Closing Thoughts

• Silence and solitude are essential disciplines for followers of Jesus because they foster a deeper relationship with God, provide opportunities for reflection and renewal, and prepare believers for effective service.

• Encouragement to begin small and remain consistent.

6. Reflection Questions for Listeners

• How can you incorporate silence and solitude into your daily routine?

• What steps can your church take to encourage these disciplines corporately?

**(00:00) END PART 1**

**(27:00 – 5:00) BEGIN PART 2**

**(5:00 – 1:00)**

Doctrine of the Month -

The Church Defined

Key question: What is the Church?

Definition of the Church: A local body of baptized believers, united in covenant for worship, discipleship, and the mission of Christ.

The Universal Church

Ephesians 1:22-23

"And He put all things under His feet, and gave Him to be head over all things to the church, which is His body, the fullness of Him who fills all in all."

Explanation: All believers united under Christ as the head.

The Local Church

Acts 2:41-42

"Then those who gladly received his word were baptized; and that day about three thousand souls were added to them. And they continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in prayers."

Explanation: Local expressions of the universal Church gathered for worship, teaching, and fellowship.

**(1:00)**

- “Thank you for listening today! Is your life too noisy and too busy? Do you need to carve out a space to really seek God? Consider intentionally seeking a time alone to pursue Jesus without the clamor of outside pressure. Get away with your Bible and a journal and allow God to refresh you as only He can!

-If you enjoyed the show you can listen to all the past shows wherever you listen to podcasts. A good place to start is at runwithhorses.net. You can also write me at norman@runwithhorses.net or leave a comment on the Run With Horses Podcast facebook page. Take time today to pause and thank God for His work in your life and keep running.

**(00:00)**

Podcast: rwh.podbean.com

Website: www.runwithhorses.net

Youtube: https://youtube.com/@rwhpodcast

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RWHpodcast

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rwh_podcast

Twitter: https://twitter.com/RWH_podcast

Susan’s New book – Parenting Manual

https://a.co/d/8L7GWIo

Norman’s New book – Pursuing Godliness Together - It’s a practical, quick read!

https://a.co/d/c7Y7F04

---

**(28:00)**

Last week we looked at biblical meditation, Today we consider the spiritual discipline of fasting!

**(27:00 – 23:00)**

The "one another" commands found throughout the New Testament are critical for followers of Jesus for several reasons.

1. Foundation of Christian Community

2. Reflecting Christ's Love

3. Promoting Spiritual Growth

4. Enhancing Prayer Life

5. Witness to the World

6. Encouraging Humility and Service

**(23:00 – 0:00)* * PART 1

What Are Spiritual Disciplines?

Define spiritual disciplines as practices rooted in Scripture that help believers grow in their relationship with God.

Key verse: “Discipline yourself for the purpose of godliness.” (1 Timothy 4:7)

• Fasting in Mourning and Repentance:

  • David fasting after his sin with Bathsheba (2 Samuel 12:16-17 - ).

  • The people of Nineveh fasting in response to Jonah’s preaching (Jonah 3:5-10 )

     

• Fasting for Guidance:

  • Ezra fasting for safety and protection (Ezra 8:21-23 )

     

  • The church at Antioch fasting before sending out missionaries (Acts 13:2-3 )

     

• Fasting in Crisis:

  • Esther and the Jews fasting before she approached the king (Esther 4:16))

     

  • Jehoshaphat proclaiming a fast when Judah was under threat (2 Chronicles 20:3-4

     

• Fasting in Preparation for Ministry:

  • Jesus fasting 40 days and nights in the wilderness (Matthew 4:1-2 )

     

  • Paul and Barnabas fasting before appointing elders (Acts 14:23)

• Seeking God’s Presence and Power:

  •  

• Humble Dependence on God:

  •  

• Aligning with God’s Will:

  •  

**So, Why Fast?

Mourning, Repentance, Seeking Guidance, Wisdom, A Crisis, Preparation for Ministry

**(00:00) END PART 1**

**(27:00 – 5:00) BEGIN PART 2**

• Preparing for a Fast:

  • Know Your WHY. What’s your purpose?

  • Pray and focus on the purpose for the fast.

  • Choose the type and duration of fasting.

  • Plan what will replace food, don’t leave a vacuum. Prayer, Bible Reading, Memorization, etc.

     

• Types of Fasting:

  • Complete Fast: No food or drink (Esther 4:16, Paul at conversion, Moses on Sinai; extreme circumstances only).

    1.Desperate Circumstances: Often connected with life-and-death situations or pivotal spiritual moments.

    2.Short Duration: Typically no more than three days unless miraculously sustained (e.g., Moses’ 40-day fast).

    3.Purpose: To seek divine intervention, guidance, forgiveness, or revelation.

     

  • Partial Fast: Partial fasts in the Bible involve abstaining from certain types of food or drink rather than completely abstaining. These fasts were often used for extended periods or in specific contexts where individuals focused on humility, devotion, or spiritual preparation. (Daniel 10:3 - 2In those days I, Daniel, was mourning three full weeks. 3I ate no pleasant food, no meat or wine came into my mouth, nor did I anoint myself at all, till three whole weeks were fulfilled. John the Baptists Lifestyle)

     

    1. Characteristics of Partial Fasts

    2. Select Restrictions: Focus on limiting specific foods (e.g., rich foods, meat, or wine).

    3. Purpose: Often linked to humility, seeking God’s will, or preparing for spiritual encounters.

    4.Extended Durations: Commonly longer than complete fasts, lasting days or weeks.

     

  • Intermittent Fast: Skipping meals during specific times. IE. miss lunch for prayer. Intermittent fasting, characterized by periodic abstention from food or drink for specific times, is not explicitly named in the Bible but can be inferred from certain practices and rhythms. Biblical examples suggest some individuals and communities engaged in fasting at particular times of the day or for designated periods as part of their spiritual devotion. Luke 18:12 – Pharisee fasted twice a week, on a schedule.

     

    Characteristics of Intermittent Fasting in the Bible

    1.Time-Based Fasting: Often occurred during specific hours of the day (e.g., morning to evening).

    2.Regular Patterns: Certain groups, like the Pharisees, observed fasting on scheduled days.

    3.Corporate and Personal Practice: Seen in communal settings (e.g., Israel) and individual devotion (e.g., Anna).

    4.Purpose: Spiritual preparation, mourning, seeking guidance, or demonstrating devotion.

     

  • Non-Food Fasts: Avoiding distractions like social media, entertainment, or hobbies to focus on God. The Bible does not explicitly describe non-food fasts in the same way it details abstinence from food and drink. However, certain practices resembling non-food fasts can be inferred from Scripture when individuals or groups chose to abstain from particular activities, comforts, or luxuries to seek God or focus on spiritual matters.

  • Purpose: To demonstrate humility and focus entirely on seeking God during a period of spiritual reflection.

     

  • Jonah 3:6-7 - The king of Nineveh declared a fast and removed his royal robes as a sign of repentance: "Then word came to the king of Nineveh; and he arose from his throne and laid aside his robe, covered himself with sackcloth and sat in ashes."

  • Purpose: Symbolizing humility and repentance before God.

     

  • Characteristics of Non-Food Fasts in the Bible

    1.Sacrificial Nature: The focus is on denying oneself something of value to draw nearer to God.

    2.Symbolic Acts: Often associated with mourning, repentance, or humility (e.g., sackcloth and ashes).

    3.Spiritual Intent: Aimed at seeking God, expressing devotion, or prioritizing spiritual over physical needs.

**Ask: What is the biggest time waster that draws me away from god? Can you fast from that activity?

• During the Fast:

  • Dedicate time to prayer, Bible reading, and reflection. Prepare ahead of time so you are ready.

  • Journal your thoughts and prayers to track spiritual growth.

• Ending a Fast:

  • Break the fast gradually, with thanksgiving and continued focus on God’s purpose.

**(5:00 – 1:00)**

Doctrine of the Month - Salvation

*The Need for Salvation

* The Provision of Salvation

*The Response to Salvation

*The Results of Salvation

**(1:00)**

- “Thank you for listening today! Have you incorporated fasting into your spiriutal life? IS there a place in your life God is calling you to grow where fasting might be the right tools to help you humble yourself before Him? It’s worth considering fasting if you are serious about following Jesus!

-If you enjoyed the show you can listen to all the past shows wherever you listen to podcasts. A good place to start is at runwithhorses.net. You can also write me at norman@runwithhorses.net or leave a comment on the Run With Horses Podcast facebook page. Take time today to pause and thank God for His work in your life and keep running.

**(00:00)**

Podcast: rwh.podbean.com

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Susan’s New book – Parenting Manual

https://a.co/d/8L7GWIo

Norman’s New book – Pursuing Godliness Together - It’s a practical, quick read!

https://a.co/d/c7Y7F04

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**(28:00)**

Today we consider the spiritual discipline of biblical meditation!

**(27:00 – 23:00)**

Small Groups: Small groups are an essential part of the life of a healthy Baptist church. These gatherings provide a place to live out the “one another” commands of the New Testament. Through small groups, we build relationships that help us grow spiritually, serve together, and use our gifts to strengthen the church one relationship at a time.

**(23:00 – 0:00)* * PART 1

What Are Spiritual Disciplines?

Define spiritual disciplines as practices rooted in Scripture that help believers grow in their relationship with God.

Key verse: “Discipline yourself for the purpose of godliness.” (1 Timothy 4:7)

A. Introduction to Biblical Meditation

1. Define meditation from a Biblical perspective:

   • Focused, intentional contemplation of God's Word and works.

   • A spiritual exercise focused on Scripture, involving contemplation and prayer

   • Rooted in Scripture, with the goal of knowing God and aligning one's heart with His will.

2. Differentiate Biblical meditation from Eastern meditation:

   • • • C. Differences Between Eastern Meditation and Biblical Meditation (10 minutes)

• Focus:

  • Eastern meditation often centers on self-awareness and inner peace, while biblical meditation focuses on God and His Word(Biblical Meditation vs. Eastern Meditation | Abide, n.d.).

  • Eastern meditation emphasizes emptying the mind and achieving detachment. Biblical meditation emphasizes filling the mind with God's truth and cultivating intimacy with Him (Philippians 4:8).

• Posture:

  • Eastern practices may emphasize physical posture (e.g., sitting cross-legged), whereas biblical meditation prioritizes the posture of the heart(Biblical Meditation vs. Eastern Meditation | Abide, n.d.).

• Worldview:

  • Eastern meditation may promote the idea of achieving spiritual freedom or "nirvana," while biblical meditation acknowledges dependence on God and His grace(Biblical Meditation vs. Eastern Meditation | Abide, n.d.).

B. Key Bible References (NKJV)

1. Joshua 1:8

   •  

2. Psalm 1:1–2

   •  

3. Psalm 119:15–16

C. Biblical Examples of Meditation

1. David

   • Psalms filled with meditations on God's law, character, and works (e.g., Psalm 19:14).

2. Isaac

   • Genesis 24:63:

3. Jesus

   • Frequent times of solitude and prayer, often grounded in God's Word (Luke 5:16).