The David Alliance https://tda.podbean.com Making men MEN again. The David Alliance will help you slay your giants. Tue, 15 Sep 2026 18:49:36 -0500 https://podbean.com/?v=5.5 en Copyright 2026 All Rights Reserved Religion & Spirituality 1440 episodic Garth Heckman Garth Heckman No false https://pbcdn1.podbean.com/imglogo/image-logo/3495920/Screenshot_2026-03-02_at_12046_PM8qkwk.png The David Alliance https://tda.podbean.com 144 144 10 Attacks of the Accuser! 10 Attacks of the Accuser! https://tda.podbean.com/e/10-attacks-of-the-accuser/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/10-attacks-of-the-accuser/#comments Tue, 15 Sep 2026 18:49:36 -0500 tda.podbean.com/989bd4cf-ae94-3100-a6b8-4d2e959d7e98 The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@gmail.com

Garth Heckman

10 Ways the Accuser Attacks Faith

1. Rehearsing Your Past He whispers your worst moment on repeat — the affair, the addiction, the abortion, the thing you did at 19 — long after God has already forgiven it, hoping shame will convince you that grace has an expiration date. (Revelation 12:10 — he accuses "day and night")

2. Redefining God's Character "Did God really say...?" He doesn't usually deny God exists — he reframes who God is: distant, disappointed, keeping score. (Genesis 3:1)

3. Comparison He points you at someone else's marriage, ministry, body, or blessing, and lets envy do the rest of the work — convincing you God has been unfair specifically to you.

4. Isolation Disguised as Privacy He convinces you that no one can know the real struggle — that if your small group or spouse knew, they'd walk away. Isolation is where accusation grows unchecked, because it's never tested against truth spoken by someone else.

5. Weaponizing Other Believers' Words He takes a real hurt — something someone at church actually said or did — and repeats it in your mind until it becomes "this is who the church really is" or "this is who God really is."

6. Delayed Answers as Proof of Abandonment When prayer isn't answered on your timeline, he suggests silence means absence — that unanswered prayer is proof you're not really heard, rather than proof you're being asked to trust. (Compare Job's friends' theology vs. God's actual response in Job 38-42)

7. Perfectionism Disguised as Conviction Real conviction from the Spirit is specific and leads to repentance and freedom (2 Corinthians 7:10). Accusation is vague, global, and leads to paralysis — "you'll never get this right," "you're always like this." One brings you to the cross; the other just buries you.

8. Identity Theft He tries to get you to answer to a label — addict, failure, fraud, unworthy — instead of the one Scripture actually gives you: forgiven, adopted, righteous in Christ (Romans 8:1, Ephesians 1:5). Whoever answers the accusation has already accepted the label.

9. Success as a Trapdoor Ironically, he accuses through pride too — convincing gifted, "successful" believers (especially leaders) that their platform, growth, or following is proof of their own righteousness, setting up a fall through self-sufficiency rather than obvious sin. (1 Timothy 3:6 — the danger of being "puffed up with conceit")

10. Truth Without Grace This might be the subtlest one: he loves using real Scripture, real truth, real standards — just stripped of the gospel's grace and hope, so truth becomes crushing weight instead of a path to freedom. (This is actually what he tried on Jesus in the wilderness — quoting real Scripture, Matthew 4:6, but twisting its application.)

]]> The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@gmail.com

Garth Heckman

10 Ways the Accuser Attacks Faith

1. Rehearsing Your Past
He whispers your worst moment on repeat — the affair, the addiction, the abortion, the thing you did at 19 — long after God has already forgiven it, hoping shame will convince you that grace has an expiration date. (Revelation 12:10 — he accuses "day and night")

2. Redefining God's Character
"Did God really say...?" He doesn't usually deny God exists — he reframes who God is: distant, disappointed, keeping score. (Genesis 3:1)

3. Comparison
He points you at someone else's marriage, ministry, body, or blessing, and lets envy do the rest of the work — convincing you God has been unfair specifically to you.

4. Isolation Disguised as Privacy
He convinces you that no one can know the real struggle — that if your small group or spouse knew, they'd walk away. Isolation is where accusation grows unchecked, because it's never tested against truth spoken by someone else.

5. Weaponizing Other Believers' Words
He takes a real hurt — something someone at church actually said or did — and repeats it in your mind until it becomes "this is who the church really is" or "this is who God really is."

6. Delayed Answers as Proof of Abandonment
When prayer isn't answered on your timeline, he suggests silence means absence — that unanswered prayer is proof you're not really heard, rather than proof you're being asked to trust. (Compare Job's friends' theology vs. God's actual response in Job 38-42)

7. Perfectionism Disguised as Conviction
Real conviction from the Spirit is specific and leads to repentance and freedom (2 Corinthians 7:10). Accusation is vague, global, and leads to paralysis — "you'll never get this right," "you're always like this." One brings you to the cross; the other just buries you.

8. Identity Theft
He tries to get you to answer to a label — addict, failure, fraud, unworthy — instead of the one Scripture actually gives you: forgiven, adopted, righteous in Christ (Romans 8:1, Ephesians 1:5). Whoever answers the accusation has already accepted the label.

9. Success as a Trapdoor
Ironically, he accuses through pride too — convincing gifted, "successful" believers (especially leaders) that their platform, growth, or following is proof of their own righteousness, setting up a fall through self-sufficiency rather than obvious sin. (1 Timothy 3:6 — the danger of being "puffed up with conceit")

10. Truth Without Grace
This might be the subtlest one: he loves using real Scripture, real truth, real standards — just stripped of the gospel's grace and hope, so truth becomes crushing weight instead of a path to freedom. (This is actually what he tried on Jesus in the wilderness — quoting real Scripture, Matthew 4:6, but twisting its application.)

]]> Garth Heckman false No 462 1764 full It's ALWAYS The Woman's fault! It's ALWAYS The Woman's fault! https://tda.podbean.com/e/its-always-the-womans-fault/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/its-always-the-womans-fault/#comments Mon, 14 Sep 2026 19:00:46 -0500 tda.podbean.com/3f4c1e27-ee4f-352f-93d8-3476edf02edc The David Alliance 

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com

Garth Heckman

Accuser

 

Do you inhale or exhale when you putt? 

 

THE ACCUSER - THE RATT 

START WITH A WARNING…

**If you do not understand how the accuser works you will be used by him and for his purpose without even knowing it.

 

Here is how it works: 

People play the VICTIM - Why me, me oh my, waaa waaa waaa, poor me.

 

Then they turn into the VILLIAN - They attack people who they feel have it made, had it easy, they think they are arrogant simply because they are successful in some area of life.

 

They they become Victors and they fight on behalf of the other “VICTIMS”… Jeff Karow “I shudder thinking about the 11 year old little girl who could not get an abortion after being brutally raped. 

 

The worst thing about being deceived is you do not know you are deceived. You operate in the mindset of fact, but its not fact at all. Remember when cigarettes did not cause cancer. 

 

John 8

Jesus returned to the Mount of Olives, 2 but early the next morning he was back again at the Temple. A crowd soon gathered, and he sat down and taught them. 3 As he was speaking, the teachers of religious law and the Pharisees brought a woman who had been caught in the act of adultery. They put her in front of the crowd.

4 “Teacher,” they said to Jesus, “this woman was caught in the act of adultery. 5 The law of Moses says to stone her. What do you say?”

6 They were trying to trap him into saying something they could use against him, but Jesus stooped down and wrote in the dust with his finger. 7 They kept demanding an answer, so he stood up again and said, “All right, but let the one who has never sinned throw the first stone!” 8 Then he stooped down again and wrote in the dust.

9 When the accusers heard this, they slipped away one by one, beginning with the oldest, until only Jesus was left in the middle of the crowd with the woman. 10 Then Jesus stood up again and said to the woman, “Where are your accusers? Didn’t even one of them condemn you?”

11 “No, Lord,” she said.

And Jesus said, “Neither do I. Go and sin no more.”

 

The historical background of this passage—traditionally known as the Pericope Adulterae—is shaped by a clever political trap, a clash between competing legal systems, and a fascinating journey through ancient manuscripts. [1, 2, 3, 4] 

 

peh-RIK-oh-pee - It’s from Greek, meaning "a cutting out" or "a selected passage,”

Adulterae = ah-dul-TAIR-eye

 

1. The Legal Trap: Roman Law vs. Jewish Law

The religious leaders weren't just asking Jesus for a theological opinion; they were trying to force Him into a dangerous political and legal corner: [3, 5] 

 

  • The Roman Constraint: Under Roman occupation, the Jewish authorities (the Sanhedrin) were stripped of their power to officially execute anyone. If Jesus agreed that the woman should be stoned to death, He would be encouraging an illegal vigilante execution, breaking Roman law and setting Himself up as a rebel leader against Rome.
  • The Mosaic Constraint: If Jesus said she should go free, He would appear to be breaking the Law of Moses(Leviticus 20:10), which prescribed the death penalty for adultery. This would instantly ruin His credibility as a Rabbi among the Jewish people. 

 

What is really going on here?

Judging Jesus response - while they themselves do not hold themselves accountable to the same standard.

   *they are not willing to make a call on this - but judging Jesus on his response.

 

People will call you out - all the while never talk about their own lack of character in the same manner.

 

  • Where was the man? The Mosaic law explicitly stated that both the man and the woman caught in adultery were to be put to death.

**Missing information: Accusers will never share the whole story. 

 

2. The Location: The Temple Courts

The text explicitly states this encounter took place in the Temple courts (John 8:2).

 

  •  
  • The sprawling courts of Herod’s Temple were not dirt roads or sandy paths; they were grand, public plazas paved with massive, polished stone tiles.
  • If there was loose dust blown onto the stones, Jesus could have been writing in the dirt. However, if He was pressing His finger directly against the smooth, hard flagstones of the Temple floor, a mere human finger would leave no mark. For Him to "engrave" or "write" a visible record there would require a miracle. [7, 8] 
  •  

3. The Theological Parallel: The Finger of God

By highlighting that Jesus wrote "with his finger," John uses a very rare phrasing that immediately points a Jewish reader back to the Old Testament. [7, 9] 

 

  •  
  • In the entire Bible, there are only a few times where God is described as physically writing something. The most famous is Exodus 31:18: "He gave Moses the two tablets of the Testimony, tablets of stone, written with the finger of God."

 

Jesus was silently saying: "You are trying to lecture Me on the Law? I am the one who carved it in stone in the first place." [1, 10] 

 

OOOOOOO

 

The phrase "the finger of God" appears only a handful of times in the entire Bible. Each instance represents an irresistible, sovereign display of divine authority and judgment on those who try to play God. 

When you connect these other passages to Jesus in the Temple courts, they paint a staggering picture of who He was claiming to be.

 

 

1. The Plagues of Egypt (Exodus 8:19)

 

  • The Context: During the ten plagues, Pharaoh's court sorcerers try to replicate the miracles Moses performs. When God turns the dust of the earth into swarms of gnats, the magicians fail to copy it. Terrified, they tell Pharaoh: "This is the finger of God."

 

2. The Ten Commandments (Exodus 31:18 & Deuteronomy 9:10)

 

  • The Context: God delivers the moral law to humanity not by dictating it to Moses, but by physically carving it Himself. The text notes the tablets were "written with the finger of God" on stone.
  •  

3. The Writing on the Wall (Daniel 5:5)

 

  • The Context: King Belshazzar of Babylon throws a blasphemous feast, drinking out of the sacred gold cups stolen from God’s Temple. Suddenly, the fingers of a human hand appear and scratch a mysterious message into the plaster of the wall (Mene, Mene, Tekel, Parsin). Daniel interprets the writing: God has weighed the king's deeds, found him wanting, and his kingdom is finished.
  •  

4. Jesus Driving Out Demons (Luke 11:20)

 

  • The Context: Jesus is accused by His critics of using the power of Satan to cast out demons. He fires back: "But if I drive out demons by the finger of God, then the kingdom of God has come upon you."

 

This is a great teaching device — pastors use this "voice of the accuser" framing often to expose the enemy's tactics. Here's a biblically-grounded list, treating it as an exposé of strategy rather than actually voicing that persona.

]]> The David Alliance 

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com

Garth Heckman

Accuser

 

Do you inhale or exhale when you putt? 

 

THE ACCUSER - THE RATT 

START WITH A WARNING…

**If you do not understand how the accuser works you will be used by him and for his purpose without even knowing it.

 

Here is how it works: 

People play the VICTIM - Why me, me oh my, waaa waaa waaa, poor me.

 

Then they turn into the VILLIAN - They attack people who they feel have it made, had it easy, they think they are arrogant simply because they are successful in some area of life.

 

They they become Victors and they fight on behalf of the other “VICTIMS”… Jeff Karow “I shudder thinking about the 11 year old little girl who could not get an abortion after being brutally raped. 

 

The worst thing about being deceived is you do not know you are deceived. You operate in the mindset of fact, but its not fact at all. Remember when cigarettes did not cause cancer. 

 

John 8

Jesus returned to the Mount of Olives, 2 but early the next morning he was back again at the Temple. A crowd soon gathered, and he sat down and taught them. 3 As he was speaking, the teachers of religious law and the Pharisees brought a woman who had been caught in the act of adultery. They put her in front of the crowd.

4 “Teacher,” they said to Jesus, “this woman was caught in the act of adultery. 5 The law of Moses says to stone her. What do you say?”

6 They were trying to trap him into saying something they could use against him, but Jesus stooped down and wrote in the dust with his finger. 7 They kept demanding an answer, so he stood up again and said, “All right, but let the one who has never sinned throw the first stone!” 8 Then he stooped down again and wrote in the dust.

9 When the accusers heard this, they slipped away one by one, beginning with the oldest, until only Jesus was left in the middle of the crowd with the woman. 10 Then Jesus stood up again and said to the woman, “Where are your accusers? Didn’t even one of them condemn you?”

11 “No, Lord,” she said.

And Jesus said, “Neither do I. Go and sin no more.”

 

The historical background of this passage—traditionally known as the Pericope Adulterae—is shaped by a clever political trap, a clash between competing legal systems, and a fascinating journey through ancient manuscripts. [1, 2, 3, 4] 

 

peh-RIK-oh-pee - It’s from Greek, meaning "a cutting out" or "a selected passage,”

Adulterae = ah-dul-TAIR-eye

 

1. The Legal Trap: Roman Law vs. Jewish Law

The religious leaders weren't just asking Jesus for a theological opinion; they were trying to force Him into a dangerous political and legal corner: [3, 5] 

 

  • The Roman Constraint: Under Roman occupation, the Jewish authorities (the Sanhedrin) were stripped of their power to officially execute anyone. If Jesus agreed that the woman should be stoned to death, He would be encouraging an illegal vigilante execution, breaking Roman law and setting Himself up as a rebel leader against Rome.
  • The Mosaic Constraint: If Jesus said she should go free, He would appear to be breaking the Law of Moses(Leviticus 20:10), which prescribed the death penalty for adultery. This would instantly ruin His credibility as a Rabbi among the Jewish people. 

 

What is really going on here?

Judging Jesus response - while they themselves do not hold themselves accountable to the same standard.

   *they are not willing to make a call on this - but judging Jesus on his response.

 

People will call you out - all the while never talk about their own lack of character in the same manner.

 

  • Where was the man? The Mosaic law explicitly stated that both the man and the woman caught in adultery were to be put to death.

**Missing information: Accusers will never share the whole story. 

 

2. The Location: The Temple Courts

The text explicitly states this encounter took place in the Temple courts (John 8:2).

 

  •  
  • The sprawling courts of Herod’s Temple were not dirt roads or sandy paths; they were grand, public plazas paved with massive, polished stone tiles.
  • If there was loose dust blown onto the stones, Jesus could have been writing in the dirt. However, if He was pressing His finger directly against the smooth, hard flagstones of the Temple floor, a mere human finger would leave no mark. For Him to "engrave" or "write" a visible record there would require a miracle. [7, 8] 
  •  

3. The Theological Parallel: The Finger of God

By highlighting that Jesus wrote "with his finger," John uses a very rare phrasing that immediately points a Jewish reader back to the Old Testament. [7, 9] 

 

  •  
  • In the entire Bible, there are only a few times where God is described as physically writing something. The most famous is Exodus 31:18: "He gave Moses the two tablets of the Testimony, tablets of stone, written with the finger of God."

 

Jesus was silently saying: "You are trying to lecture Me on the Law? I am the one who carved it in stone in the first place." [1, 10] 

 

OOOOOOO

 

The phrase "the finger of God" appears only a handful of times in the entire Bible. Each instance represents an irresistible, sovereign display of divine authority and judgment on those who try to play God. 

When you connect these other passages to Jesus in the Temple courts, they paint a staggering picture of who He was claiming to be.

 

 

1. The Plagues of Egypt (Exodus 8:19)

 

  • The Context: During the ten plagues, Pharaoh's court sorcerers try to replicate the miracles Moses performs. When God turns the dust of the earth into swarms of gnats, the magicians fail to copy it. Terrified, they tell Pharaoh: "This is the finger of God."

 

2. The Ten Commandments (Exodus 31:18 & Deuteronomy 9:10)

 

  • The Context: God delivers the moral law to humanity not by dictating it to Moses, but by physically carving it Himself. The text notes the tablets were "written with the finger of God" on stone.
  •  

3. The Writing on the Wall (Daniel 5:5)

 

  • The Context: King Belshazzar of Babylon throws a blasphemous feast, drinking out of the sacred gold cups stolen from God’s Temple. Suddenly, the fingers of a human hand appear and scratch a mysterious message into the plaster of the wall (Mene, Mene, Tekel, Parsin). Daniel interprets the writing: God has weighed the king's deeds, found him wanting, and his kingdom is finished.
  •  

4. Jesus Driving Out Demons (Luke 11:20)

 

  • The Context: Jesus is accused by His critics of using the power of Satan to cast out demons. He fires back: "But if I drive out demons by the finger of God, then the kingdom of God has come upon you."

 

This is a great teaching device — pastors use this "voice of the accuser" framing often to expose the enemy's tactics. Here's a biblically-grounded list, treating it as an exposé of strategy rather than actually voicing that persona.

]]> Garth Heckman false No 473 1763 full You Dirty Rat. You Dirty Rat. https://tda.podbean.com/e/you-dirty-rat/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/you-dirty-rat/#comments Sun, 13 Sep 2026 19:10:49 -0500 tda.podbean.com/8652f273-6616-3574-bf5e-e91c908c207d The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@gmail.com

Garth Heckman

Accuser

Do you inhale or exhale when you putt? 

THE ACCUSER - THE RATT 

 

START WITH A WARNING…

**If you do not understand how the accuser works you will be used by him and for his purpose without even knowing it.

 

Here is how it works: 

People play the VICTIM - Why me, me oh my, waaa waaa waaa, poor me.

Then they turn into the VILLIAN - They attack people who they feel have it made, had it easy, they think they are arrogant simply because they are successful in some area of life.

 

They they become Victors and they fight on behalf of the other “VICTIMS”… Jeff Karow “I shudder thinking about the 11 year old little girl who could not get an abortion after being brutally raped. 

 

The worst thing about being deceived is you do not know you are deceived. You operate in the mindset of fact, but its not fact at all. Remember when cigarettes did not cause cancer. 

]]> The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@gmail.com

Garth Heckman

Accuser

Do you inhale or exhale when you putt? 

THE ACCUSER - THE RATT 

 

START WITH A WARNING…

**If you do not understand how the accuser works you will be used by him and for his purpose without even knowing it.

 

Here is how it works: 

People play the VICTIM - Why me, me oh my, waaa waaa waaa, poor me.

Then they turn into the VILLIAN - They attack people who they feel have it made, had it easy, they think they are arrogant simply because they are successful in some area of life.

 

They they become Victors and they fight on behalf of the other “VICTIMS”… Jeff Karow “I shudder thinking about the 11 year old little girl who could not get an abortion after being brutally raped. 

 

The worst thing about being deceived is you do not know you are deceived. You operate in the mindset of fact, but its not fact at all. Remember when cigarettes did not cause cancer. 

]]> Garth Heckman false No 467 1762 full I like BIG BUNS! I like BIG BUNS! https://tda.podbean.com/e/i-like-big-buns/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/i-like-big-buns/#comments Thu, 10 Sep 2026 17:36:19 -0500 tda.podbean.com/4255fa4c-10ef-36de-9227-406bf8a25424 The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@gmail.com

Garth Heckman

Luke 11

]]> The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@gmail.com

Garth Heckman

Luke 11

]]> Garth Heckman false No 462 1761 full Kick it in the ASSK! Kick it in the ASSK! https://tda.podbean.com/e/kick-it-in-the-assk/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/kick-it-in-the-assk/#comments Wed, 09 Sep 2026 19:10:23 -0500 tda.podbean.com/6f2f6fed-9d7b-3ed2-8dd5-2d8b9632656f The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@gmail.com 

Garth Heckman

ASK

 

John F. Kennedy - ask not what your country can do for you, but rather what can you do for your country…. Great line, too bad it wasn’t his… but it still screams the idea of asking….

 

JFK’s head schoolmaster in catholic chapel actually came up with that line… and JFK modified it. 

 

Title Idea: "The Divine Exchange: What Asking Reveals”

 

Im going somewhere with this question…

 

A simple question: What is your theology?

Simple answer: I believe in Jesus as the son of God. I believe he died for my sins. I believe He rose again. I believe I am a sinner, I have asked him to forgive me of my sins, and I have chosen to live my life for him.

My Basic theology: Right?

 

 

NOT EXACTLY what your theology is based on…. ITS IN THE QUESTIONS YOU ASK AND THE QUESTIONS YOU ANSWER?

 

 

The tension in scripture is in the questions: BUT NOT IN WHAT YOU ask, BUT IN HOW YOU ACT!

 

 

QUESTIONS - “ASK” - DEMAND BEHAVIOR! 

 

Gods questions to us demand alliance

Our Questions to God reveal compliance 

 

How far is too far… ahhhh that question reveals your lack of compliance and your lack of heart for alliance. 

The real question is “What is the best way to honor this person in you and in their future marriage?”

 

 

 

CFNI - PINK ELEPHANTS 

Special speaker - asks again and again =who is in rebellion, refusing to repent and be used by God.

      We wait…..

Finally a man in his 30’s stands up - its me.

We pray for him.

The speaker says you have a word for someone -

The man says yes - someone here is afraid of pink elephants

     We wait….

A young man bursts out of his seat.. it’s me, it’s me

 

IT WAS…

A SERIES OF UNCOMFORTABLE QUESTIONS! 

 

 

Jesus asks impossible things ("you feed them"), 

  -  and people ask Him impossible things (water-walking).

     

Jesus asks us uncomfortable questions (Why give to the dogs what was meant for the children)

   -  We ask him questions we can rationalize (God I know you understand, I know you are a forgiving God)

 

Jesus asks improbable questions: (Why would you call me good?, do you want to get well?)

   -  We ask self serving questions (Isn’t everybody doing it? But isn’t it just easier this way)

 

 

Pose the question: What if the way we ask, and the way we respond to being asked, exposes our actual theology—not our stated one?

 

Because it does. 

 

 

 

 

THOUGHT: Jesus's Questions Expose What We Believe, Not What We Know

 

 

LUKE 5     Jesus first ask of a disciple - makes no sense.

Peter objects but obliges.

 

**What Jesus exemplified - He stood in the boat and preached, and it drew a multitude of fish to him. 

APPLICATION: Jesus: “Follow my ask and watch what I can do.”

 

 

 

5 YEARS AGO I WAS FILLING OUT PAPER WORK FOR PATENTS… GOD SAID GO FOR IT.

    Now understand everything that I want to go after will cost me a lot of money. I was explaining to God why this is a dumb idea - I don’t have the money… but he said “be greedy, go for it”.

I objected, but obliged… it paid off! 

 

 

 

 

12,000 HAPPY MEALS

Text: Matthew 14:16 — "You give them something to eat.”

 

This isn't a logistics question. Jesus already knew what He was going to do (John 6:6 says as much—He asked "to test" Philip, "for he himself knew what he was going to do"). The command wasn't functional; it was diagnostic. He's not asking the disciples to solve a math problem (5 loaves ÷ 5,000 people); He's asking them to locate their trust.

 

Theological insight: When God gives an "impossible" instruction, He's rarely asking you to be sufficient. He's asking you to bring what's insufficient to Him. The miracle happens in the disciples' hands, not before them—they distribute what they don't yet have enough of, and it multiplies in the giving, not before it.

 

Application: Every "you feed them" moment in our lives (a marriage we can't fix, a ministry we can't sustain, a grief we can't carry) is less about capability and more about direction—will we hoard the five loaves in fear, or hand them over in obedience?

 

 

A young man comes to Christ. He was a fun, crazy partying teenager, then 20 year old… now 25 and he comes to Christ. He slept around… but now knew if he was going to call him self a Christian he had to practice abstinence… no excuses - 

But he was admittedly unsure - to him it seemed impossible. He could do it for a few dates…but then what.

I EXPLAINED TO HIM - you bring your 3% and God will cover the other 97%. 

 

 

To most people - especially the 15-30 year olds that seems like an impossible ask: 

 

 

Point 2: "Why So Little Faith?" — The Question That Isn't Really a Question

 

Text: Matthew 8:26 The storm,

Jesus asks this three times in Matthew, always after the disciples have witnessed power but respond in fear or doubt

 

Oli-GO-pistos - “you do realize I have the power if you have the faith”. 

 

Application: The question isn't accusatory—it's an invitation to memory. When we're afraid, Jesus isn't asking us to defend our fear; He's asking us to recall what we already know about Him.

 

HE IS ASKING SO WE REMEMBER! 

 

 

Point 3: When People Ask Jesus — The Syrophoenician Woman's Bold Request - what about the crumbs! 

 

Text: Mark 7:24–30 / Matthew 15:21–28

 

 

  1. Jesus Is Testing/Drawing Out Her Faith, Not Insulting Her

 

 

Her response wins the exchange trusting in his character and goodness with humility and cleverness.

 

She asks - and does not get the answer she wants.

She asks - again with humility and candor

]]> The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@gmail.com 

Garth Heckman

ASK

 

John F. Kennedy - ask not what your country can do for you, but rather what can you do for your country…. Great line, too bad it wasn’t his… but it still screams the idea of asking….

 

JFK’s head schoolmaster in catholic chapel actually came up with that line… and JFK modified it. 

 

Title Idea: "The Divine Exchange: What Asking Reveals”

 

Im going somewhere with this question…

 

A simple question: What is your theology?

Simple answer: I believe in Jesus as the son of God. I believe he died for my sins. I believe He rose again. I believe I am a sinner, I have asked him to forgive me of my sins, and I have chosen to live my life for him.

My Basic theology: Right?

 

 

NOT EXACTLY what your theology is based on…. ITS IN THE QUESTIONS YOU ASK AND THE QUESTIONS YOU ANSWER?

 

 

The tension in scripture is in the questions: BUT NOT IN WHAT YOU ask, BUT IN HOW YOU ACT!

 

 

QUESTIONS - “ASK” - DEMAND BEHAVIOR! 

 

Gods questions to us demand alliance

Our Questions to God reveal compliance 

 

How far is too far… ahhhh that question reveals your lack of compliance and your lack of heart for alliance. 

The real question is “What is the best way to honor this person in you and in their future marriage?”

 

 

 

CFNI - PINK ELEPHANTS 

Special speaker - asks again and again =who is in rebellion, refusing to repent and be used by God.

      We wait…..

Finally a man in his 30’s stands up - its me.

We pray for him.

The speaker says you have a word for someone -

The man says yes - someone here is afraid of pink elephants

     We wait….

A young man bursts out of his seat.. it’s me, it’s me

 

IT WAS…

A SERIES OF UNCOMFORTABLE QUESTIONS! 

 

 

Jesus asks impossible things ("you feed them"), 

  -  and people ask Him impossible things (water-walking).

     

Jesus asks us uncomfortable questions (Why give to the dogs what was meant for the children)

   -  We ask him questions we can rationalize (God I know you understand, I know you are a forgiving God)

 

Jesus asks improbable questions: (Why would you call me good?, do you want to get well?)

   -  We ask self serving questions (Isn’t everybody doing it? But isn’t it just easier this way)

 

 

Pose the question: What if the way we ask, and the way we respond to being asked, exposes our actual theology—not our stated one?

 

Because it does. 

 

 

 

 

THOUGHT: Jesus's Questions Expose What We Believe, Not What We Know

 

 

LUKE 5     Jesus first ask of a disciple - makes no sense.

Peter objects but obliges.

 

**What Jesus exemplified - He stood in the boat and preached, and it drew a multitude of fish to him. 

APPLICATION: Jesus: “Follow my ask and watch what I can do.”

 

 

 

5 YEARS AGO I WAS FILLING OUT PAPER WORK FOR PATENTS… GOD SAID GO FOR IT.

    Now understand everything that I want to go after will cost me a lot of money. I was explaining to God why this is a dumb idea - I don’t have the money… but he said “be greedy, go for it”.

I objected, but obliged… it paid off! 

 

 

 

 

12,000 HAPPY MEALS

Text: Matthew 14:16 — "You give them something to eat.”

 

This isn't a logistics question. Jesus already knew what He was going to do (John 6:6 says as much—He asked "to test" Philip, "for he himself knew what he was going to do"). The command wasn't functional; it was diagnostic. He's not asking the disciples to solve a math problem (5 loaves ÷ 5,000 people); He's asking them to locate their trust.

 

Theological insight: When God gives an "impossible" instruction, He's rarely asking you to be sufficient. He's asking you to bring what's insufficient to Him. The miracle happens in the disciples' hands, not before them—they distribute what they don't yet have enough of, and it multiplies in the giving, not before it.

 

Application: Every "you feed them" moment in our lives (a marriage we can't fix, a ministry we can't sustain, a grief we can't carry) is less about capability and more about direction—will we hoard the five loaves in fear, or hand them over in obedience?

 

 

A young man comes to Christ. He was a fun, crazy partying teenager, then 20 year old… now 25 and he comes to Christ. He slept around… but now knew if he was going to call him self a Christian he had to practice abstinence… no excuses - 

But he was admittedly unsure - to him it seemed impossible. He could do it for a few dates…but then what.

I EXPLAINED TO HIM - you bring your 3% and God will cover the other 97%. 

 

 

To most people - especially the 15-30 year olds that seems like an impossible ask: 

 

 

Point 2: "Why So Little Faith?" — The Question That Isn't Really a Question

 

Text: Matthew 8:26 The storm,

Jesus asks this three times in Matthew, always after the disciples have witnessed power but respond in fear or doubt

 

Oli-GO-pistos - “you do realize I have the power if you have the faith”. 

 

Application: The question isn't accusatory—it's an invitation to memory. When we're afraid, Jesus isn't asking us to defend our fear; He's asking us to recall what we already know about Him.

 

HE IS ASKING SO WE REMEMBER! 

 

 

Point 3: When People Ask Jesus — The Syrophoenician Woman's Bold Request - what about the crumbs! 

 

Text: Mark 7:24–30 / Matthew 15:21–28

 

 

  1. Jesus Is Testing/Drawing Out Her Faith, Not Insulting Her

 

 

Her response wins the exchange trusting in his character and goodness with humility and cleverness.

 

She asks - and does not get the answer she wants.

She asks - again with humility and candor

]]> Garth Heckman false No 463 1760 full Be Greedy! Be Greedy! https://tda.podbean.com/e/be-greedy/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/be-greedy/#comments Wed, 09 Sep 2026 04:33:58 -0500 tda.podbean.com/daf75e36-f32a-3845-a68d-ce9a32636864 The David Alliance

 

THOUGHT: Jesus's Questions Expose What We Believe, Not What We Know

 

 

LUKE 5     Jesus first ask of a disciple - makes no sense.

Peter objects but obliges.

 

**What Jesus exemplified - He stood in the boat and preached, and it drew a multitude of fish to him. 

APPLICATION: Jesus: “Follow my ask and watch what I can do.”

 

 

 

5 YEARS AGO I WAS FILLING OUT PAPER WORK FOR PATENTS… GOD SAID GO FOR IT.

    Now understand everything that I want to go after will cost me a lot of money. I was explaining to God why this is a dumb idea - I don’t have the money… but he said “be greedy, go for it”.

I objected, but obliged… it paid off! 

 

 

 

 

12,000 HAPPY MEALS

Text: Matthew 14:16 — "You give them something to eat.”

 

This isn't a logistics question. Jesus already knew what He was going to do (John 6:6 says as much—He asked "to test" Philip, "for he himself knew what he was going to do"). The command wasn't functional; it was diagnostic. He's not asking the disciples to solve a math problem (5 loaves ÷ 5,000 people); He's asking them to locate their trust.

 

Theological insight: When God gives an "impossible" instruction, He's rarely asking you to be sufficient. He's asking you to bring what's insufficient to Him. The miracle happens in the disciples' hands, not before them—they distribute what they don't yet have enough of, and it multiplies in the giving, not before it.

 

Application: Every "you feed them" moment in our lives (a marriage we can't fix, a ministry we can't sustain, a grief we can't carry) is less about capability and more about direction—will we hoard the five loaves in fear, or hand them over in obedience?

 

 

A young man comes to Christ. He was a fun, crazy partying teenager, then 20 year old… now 25 and he comes to Christ. He slept around… but now knew if he was going to call him self a Christian he had to practice abstinence… no excuses - 

But he was admittedly unsure - to him it seemed impossible. He could do it for a few dates…but then what.

I EXPLAINED TO HIM - you bring your 3% and God will cover the other 97%.

]]> The David Alliance

 

THOUGHT: Jesus's Questions Expose What We Believe, Not What We Know

 

 

LUKE 5     Jesus first ask of a disciple - makes no sense.

Peter objects but obliges.

 

**What Jesus exemplified - He stood in the boat and preached, and it drew a multitude of fish to him. 

APPLICATION: Jesus: “Follow my ask and watch what I can do.”

 

 

 

5 YEARS AGO I WAS FILLING OUT PAPER WORK FOR PATENTS… GOD SAID GO FOR IT.

    Now understand everything that I want to go after will cost me a lot of money. I was explaining to God why this is a dumb idea - I don’t have the money… but he said “be greedy, go for it”.

I objected, but obliged… it paid off! 

 

 

 

 

12,000 HAPPY MEALS

Text: Matthew 14:16 — "You give them something to eat.”

 

This isn't a logistics question. Jesus already knew what He was going to do (John 6:6 says as much—He asked "to test" Philip, "for he himself knew what he was going to do"). The command wasn't functional; it was diagnostic. He's not asking the disciples to solve a math problem (5 loaves ÷ 5,000 people); He's asking them to locate their trust.

 

Theological insight: When God gives an "impossible" instruction, He's rarely asking you to be sufficient. He's asking you to bring what's insufficient to Him. The miracle happens in the disciples' hands, not before them—they distribute what they don't yet have enough of, and it multiplies in the giving, not before it.

 

Application: Every "you feed them" moment in our lives (a marriage we can't fix, a ministry we can't sustain, a grief we can't carry) is less about capability and more about direction—will we hoard the five loaves in fear, or hand them over in obedience?

 

 

A young man comes to Christ. He was a fun, crazy partying teenager, then 20 year old… now 25 and he comes to Christ. He slept around… but now knew if he was going to call him self a Christian he had to practice abstinence… no excuses - 

But he was admittedly unsure - to him it seemed impossible. He could do it for a few dates…but then what.

I EXPLAINED TO HIM - you bring your 3% and God will cover the other 97%.

]]> Garth Heckman false No 465 1759 full Jesus can Fish! Jesus can Fish! https://tda.podbean.com/e/jesus-can-fish/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/jesus-can-fish/#comments Mon, 07 Sep 2026 18:31:58 -0500 tda.podbean.com/6df76c90-89eb-38c8-b919-3ec6deafd7ac The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com

Garth Heckman

IT WAS…

A SERIES OF UNCOMFORTABLE QUESTIONS! 

 

Jesus asks impossible things ("you feed them"), 

  -  and people ask Him impossible things (water-walking).

     

Jesus asks us uncomfortable questions (Why give to the dogs what was meant for the children)

   -  We ask him questions we can rationalize (God I know you understand, I know you are a forgiving God)

 

Jesus asks improbable questions: (Why would you call me good?, do you want to get well?)

   -  We ask self serving questions (Isn’t everybody doing it? But isn’t it just easier this way)

 

 

Pose the question: What if the way we ask, and the way we respond to being asked, exposes our actual theology—not our stated one?

 

Because it does. 

 

 

 

 

THOUGHT: Jesus's Questions Expose What We Believe, Not What We Know

 

 

LUKE 5     Jesus first ask of a disciple - makes no sense.

Peter objects but obliges.

 

**What Jesus exemplified - He stood in the boat and preached, and it drew a multitude of fish to him. 

APPLICATION: Jesus: “Follow my ask and watch what I can do.”

]]> The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com

Garth Heckman

IT WAS…

A SERIES OF UNCOMFORTABLE QUESTIONS! 

 

Jesus asks impossible things ("you feed them"), 

  -  and people ask Him impossible things (water-walking).

     

Jesus asks us uncomfortable questions (Why give to the dogs what was meant for the children)

   -  We ask him questions we can rationalize (God I know you understand, I know you are a forgiving God)

 

Jesus asks improbable questions: (Why would you call me good?, do you want to get well?)

   -  We ask self serving questions (Isn’t everybody doing it? But isn’t it just easier this way)

 

 

Pose the question: What if the way we ask, and the way we respond to being asked, exposes our actual theology—not our stated one?

 

Because it does. 

 

 

 

 

THOUGHT: Jesus's Questions Expose What We Believe, Not What We Know

 

 

LUKE 5     Jesus first ask of a disciple - makes no sense.

Peter objects but obliges.

 

**What Jesus exemplified - He stood in the boat and preached, and it drew a multitude of fish to him. 

APPLICATION: Jesus: “Follow my ask and watch what I can do.”

]]> Garth Heckman false No 471 1758 full ASK = Alliance OR Compliance ASK = Alliance OR Compliance https://tda.podbean.com/e/ask-alliance-or-compliance/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/ask-alliance-or-compliance/#comments Sun, 06 Sep 2026 17:42:16 -0500 tda.podbean.com/717128ae-5fc2-3476-8bb3-6e722b569cd1 The David Alliance

TDAGiantslayer@Gmail.com

Garth Heckman

ASK

 

John F. Kennedy - ask not what your country can do for you, but rather what can you do for your country…. Great line, too bad it wasn’t his… but it still screams the idea of asking….

 

JFK’s head schoolmaster in catholic chapel actually came up with that line… and JFK modified it. 

 

Title Idea: "The Divine Exchange: What Asking Reveals”

 

Im going somewhere with this question…

 

A simple question: What is your theology?

Simple answer: I believe in Jesus as the son of God. I believe he died for my sins. I believe He rose again. I believe I am a sinner, I have asked him to forgive me of my sins, and I have chosen to live my life for him.

My Basic theology: Right?

 

 

NOT EXACTLY what your theology is based on…. ITS IN THE QUESTIONS YOU ASK AND THE QUESTIONS YOU ANSWER?

 

 

The tension in scripture is in the questions: BUT NOT IN WHAT YOU ask, BUT IN HOW YOU ACT!

 

 

QUESTIONS - “ASK” - DEMAND BEHAVIOR! 

 

Gods questions to us demand alliance

Our Questions to God reveal compliance 

 

How far is too far… ahhhh that question reveals your lack of compliance and your lack of heart for alliance. 

The real question is “What is the best way to honor this person in you and in their future marriage?”

]]> The David Alliance

TDAGiantslayer@Gmail.com

Garth Heckman

ASK

 

John F. Kennedy - ask not what your country can do for you, but rather what can you do for your country…. Great line, too bad it wasn’t his… but it still screams the idea of asking….

 

JFK’s head schoolmaster in catholic chapel actually came up with that line… and JFK modified it. 

 

Title Idea: "The Divine Exchange: What Asking Reveals”

 

Im going somewhere with this question…

 

A simple question: What is your theology?

Simple answer: I believe in Jesus as the son of God. I believe he died for my sins. I believe He rose again. I believe I am a sinner, I have asked him to forgive me of my sins, and I have chosen to live my life for him.

My Basic theology: Right?

 

 

NOT EXACTLY what your theology is based on…. ITS IN THE QUESTIONS YOU ASK AND THE QUESTIONS YOU ANSWER?

 

 

The tension in scripture is in the questions: BUT NOT IN WHAT YOU ask, BUT IN HOW YOU ACT!

 

 

QUESTIONS - “ASK” - DEMAND BEHAVIOR! 

 

Gods questions to us demand alliance

Our Questions to God reveal compliance 

 

How far is too far… ahhhh that question reveals your lack of compliance and your lack of heart for alliance. 

The real question is “What is the best way to honor this person in you and in their future marriage?”

]]> Garth Heckman false No 460 1757 full Connect to "HER" better! Connect to "HER" better! https://tda.podbean.com/e/connect-to-her-better/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/connect-to-her-better/#comments Thu, 03 Sep 2026 21:47:06 -0500 tda.podbean.com/26143d2b-5a42-379c-8f72-7a599efed112 The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com

Garth Heckman

]]> The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com

Garth Heckman

]]> Garth Heckman false No 465 1756 full Creativity should ALWAYS = ABUNDANCE! Creativity should ALWAYS = ABUNDANCE! https://tda.podbean.com/e/creativity-should-always-abundance/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/creativity-should-always-abundance/#comments Wed, 02 Sep 2026 19:12:06 -0500 tda.podbean.com/b54f3537-aa4d-36da-ab83-8644001b602f The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com

Garth Heckman

EVERYONE WANTS TO MAKE THEIR DAD PROUD.

How? By being creative in how we perform. 

 

John 1:3 and Colossians 1:16 both identify Christ as the one through whom all things were created. This connects creative imagination directly to the person of Jesus, not just an abstract "God"

 

Quit thinking “I’m not creative”. As a follower of Jesus you have THEEEE creator living inside you. Everything that God has created… that force is in YOU. 

 

Every kid who's ever built a blanket fort, drawn a picture of a purple dinosaur riding a skateboard, or invented a game with rules that make sense to absolutely no one but them — is doing something profoundly theological. They're being and acting and operating in exactly who they were made to be.

 

 

Point 3: God's Creativity Is Extravagant, Not Efficient

 

GOD’S MIRACLES WERE ALWAYS ABUNDANT.

Fish and Bread - more

Peter catches the fish in the net - more

Creative Miracles are always MORE! 

 

 

Psalm 104 is an extended poem celebrating creation, and verse 24 is the summary line: "How many are your works, LORD! In wisdom you made them all; the earth is full of your creatures.”

 

Here's what's easy to miss: God didn't need this much variety. He could have made one kind of tree, one kind of bird, one kind of fish, and called it "sufficient." 

THATS WHY….

there are over 350,000 known species of beetles alone — and that's before you get to everything else crawling, swimming, and flying on this planet. Every snowflake that's ever fallen has had a unique crystalline structure. No two fingerprints on earth are identical. God didn't design creation efficiently. He designed it abundantly.

 

Here’s a brain drop… he wants your creativity to produce abundance! 

 

GOD DOES NOT ASK US TO CREATE PERFECTLY OR EFFICIENTLY - JUST CREATE AND WATCH HIM MAKE IT ABUNDANT WHEN IT IS TO SHOW OFF HIM! 

]]> The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com

Garth Heckman

EVERYONE WANTS TO MAKE THEIR DAD PROUD.

How? By being creative in how we perform. 

 

John 1:3 and Colossians 1:16 both identify Christ as the one through whom all things were created. This connects creative imagination directly to the person of Jesus, not just an abstract "God"

 

Quit thinking “I’m not creative”. As a follower of Jesus you have THEEEE creator living inside you. Everything that God has created… that force is in YOU. 

 

Every kid who's ever built a blanket fort, drawn a picture of a purple dinosaur riding a skateboard, or invented a game with rules that make sense to absolutely no one but them — is doing something profoundly theological. They're being and acting and operating in exactly who they were made to be.

 

 

Point 3: God's Creativity Is Extravagant, Not Efficient

 

GOD’S MIRACLES WERE ALWAYS ABUNDANT.

Fish and Bread - more

Peter catches the fish in the net - more

Creative Miracles are always MORE! 

 

 

Psalm 104 is an extended poem celebrating creation, and verse 24 is the summary line: "How many are your works, LORD! In wisdom you made them all; the earth is full of your creatures.”

 

Here's what's easy to miss: God didn't need this much variety. He could have made one kind of tree, one kind of bird, one kind of fish, and called it "sufficient." 

THATS WHY….

there are over 350,000 known species of beetles alone — and that's before you get to everything else crawling, swimming, and flying on this planet. Every snowflake that's ever fallen has had a unique crystalline structure. No two fingerprints on earth are identical. God didn't design creation efficiently. He designed it abundantly.

 

Here’s a brain drop… he wants your creativity to produce abundance! 

 

GOD DOES NOT ASK US TO CREATE PERFECTLY OR EFFICIENTLY - JUST CREATE AND WATCH HIM MAKE IT ABUNDANT WHEN IT IS TO SHOW OFF HIM! 

]]> Garth Heckman false No 460 1755 full He's the guy? He's the guy? https://tda.podbean.com/e/hes-the-guy/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/hes-the-guy/#comments Tue, 01 Sep 2026 19:02:17 -0500 tda.podbean.com/ad420699-26cb-3fa3-bf43-92d4eaccecae The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com

Garth Heckman

CREATE

 

We see the success, but I think we all enjoy the “early create” stage. Any success starts with creation. 

 

BE LIKE DAD

Humanity is made in God's image, including creative capacity Genesis 1:27 — being made in God's image includes reflecting His nature, and part of that nature is creativity itself. 

humans build, invent, compose, and imagine because we're stamped with the image of a Creator God.

 

 

It runs through out the bible.

Gen. 1 Creation / Curse

John 1 Jesus is the creator / came to break the curse

The REZ is framed as a “Re-creation” not just resuscitation 

2 Cor. 5:17 anyone in him is a new creation

The curse and redemption are bookend in OT-NT

Rev. 21,22 speak of a New Heaven and New Earth

 

CREATION IS STAMPED ALL OVER THE BIBLE! 

 

 

…And we are called to emulate that trait of our Father! 

 

HOW DID DAD CREATE

  1. God creates through His word, not raw material (ex nihilo creation) Genesis 1 repeatedly uses "and God said" — He speaks reality into existence

 

 

 

Proverbs 8:30 describes wisdom as being beside God "like a craftsman" (or "constantly" depending on translation), rejoicing in His presence and rejoicing in the inhabited world. Some translations render this as wisdom being God's "delight" day by day. This has strong creative/imaginative overtones — a Creator who delights in the process of creating, not just the outcome.

 

 

Psalm 104: 24 "How many are your works, LORD! In wisdom you made them all; the earth is full of your creatures." The sheer variety of creation (over 350,000 known species of beetles alone, if you want a modern illustration)

 

 

God does not expect perfection - just creation! 

THERE IS NO 1 PERFECT BEETLE

 

 

True creativity does not focus on one perfect solution… one perfect beetle. But rather numerous solutions

 

**How to get great ideas by Jack Foster: 

They asked students to come up with on great idea for a Swiss knife, they had all week to do it. They stumbled, its hard, its frustrating… they wrecked seeking perfection.

So they changed their strategy. You have to come up with at least 10 and you only have your lunch break to do it.

THEY ENJOYED IT

MORE CREATIVE 

MANY CAME UP WITH WAY MORE THAN 10 IDEAS

 

 

HOW DO WE CREATE - AS SEEN IN SCRIPTURE

We create what’s in us…

**Remember when people hate you - they don’t hate you, that just what’s in them.

 

When people gossip

When people attack your character

When people steal

When people posture above you

When people feel insecure around you

When people judge you

ITS NOT YOU - THAT IS WHATS IN THEM

 

When we create - we create what is in us. 

So make sure you are IN CHRIST! 

 

The most successful people are not the smartest - they are the most creative… proven! 

 

YOU DON’T NEED ANYTHING OTHER THAN THE HOLY SPIRIT. 

 

WHY DO WE CREATE

Its what we were made for…

 

In any activity that we find ourselves aligned/focused/flow

**it is because we are operating something we were created for.

AND WHEN WE CREATE - IT IS A DOUBLE BONUS - because we are creating - which is what we were created for. 

 

 

NOW WATCH THIS

Exodus 31:1-5 — God tells Moses He has called a man named Bezalel by name, and then says this: "I have filled him with the Spirit of God, with wisdom, with understanding, with knowledge, and with all kinds of skills — to make artistic designs for work in gold, silver and bronze, to cut and set stones, to work in wood, and to engage in all kinds of crafts.”

 

Stop and let that sink in. The first time scripture explicitly says someone was "filled with the Spirit of God," it's not a prophet, a king, It's not a warrior. It's a craftsman. An artist. A designer. God fills a man with His Spirit specifically to carve, engrave, and build beautiful things for the tabernacle.

 

 

NOW - here is the trifecta: We were created to create to bring attention to the creator! 

 

 

**Lou Little, a football coach at Georgetown and later Columbia University tells the story of a young player. Not very gifted, but always tried hard. He sat on the bench most every game, but the coach was fond of him. This young mans father came to every game… one day the coach gets a telegram that this young mans father had passed away in the night. He tells the young man to take that game off - The boy refuses. Their team in the middle of the 3rd quarter is getting killed, the boy kept asking to go in, at this point the coach says… what can it hurt. The young man goes in and plays like he is an NFL superstar. After the game the coach asked him the difference. The young man said even though my dad came to every game he was blind - so today was the first day my dad could actually see me play. 

 

What if we looked at creativity this way: God is watching us create so that we can bring him attention.

 

In business

In art

In technology

In agriculture

In social sciences

In finance

In music

In sport

What if we looked at it as if we are creating attention to the father.

 

 

EVERYONE WANTS TO MAKE THEIR DAD PROUD.

How? By being creative in how we perform.

]]> The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com

Garth Heckman

CREATE

 

We see the success, but I think we all enjoy the “early create” stage. Any success starts with creation. 

 

BE LIKE DAD

Humanity is made in God's image, including creative capacity Genesis 1:27 — being made in God's image includes reflecting His nature, and part of that nature is creativity itself. 

humans build, invent, compose, and imagine because we're stamped with the image of a Creator God.

 

 

It runs through out the bible.

Gen. 1 Creation / Curse

John 1 Jesus is the creator / came to break the curse

The REZ is framed as a “Re-creation” not just resuscitation 

2 Cor. 5:17 anyone in him is a new creation

The curse and redemption are bookend in OT-NT

Rev. 21,22 speak of a New Heaven and New Earth

 

CREATION IS STAMPED ALL OVER THE BIBLE! 

 

 

…And we are called to emulate that trait of our Father! 

 

HOW DID DAD CREATE

  1. God creates through His word, not raw material (ex nihilo creation) Genesis 1 repeatedly uses "and God said" — He speaks reality into existence

 

 

 

Proverbs 8:30 describes wisdom as being beside God "like a craftsman" (or "constantly" depending on translation), rejoicing in His presence and rejoicing in the inhabited world. Some translations render this as wisdom being God's "delight" day by day. This has strong creative/imaginative overtones — a Creator who delights in the process of creating, not just the outcome.

 

 

Psalm 104: 24 "How many are your works, LORD! In wisdom you made them all; the earth is full of your creatures." The sheer variety of creation (over 350,000 known species of beetles alone, if you want a modern illustration)

 

 

God does not expect perfection - just creation! 

THERE IS NO 1 PERFECT BEETLE

 

 

True creativity does not focus on one perfect solution… one perfect beetle. But rather numerous solutions

 

**How to get great ideas by Jack Foster: 

They asked students to come up with on great idea for a Swiss knife, they had all week to do it. They stumbled, its hard, its frustrating… they wrecked seeking perfection.

So they changed their strategy. You have to come up with at least 10 and you only have your lunch break to do it.

THEY ENJOYED IT

MORE CREATIVE 

MANY CAME UP WITH WAY MORE THAN 10 IDEAS

 

 

HOW DO WE CREATE - AS SEEN IN SCRIPTURE

We create what’s in us…

**Remember when people hate you - they don’t hate you, that just what’s in them.

 

When people gossip

When people attack your character

When people steal

When people posture above you

When people feel insecure around you

When people judge you

ITS NOT YOU - THAT IS WHATS IN THEM

 

When we create - we create what is in us. 

So make sure you are IN CHRIST! 

 

The most successful people are not the smartest - they are the most creative… proven! 

 

YOU DON’T NEED ANYTHING OTHER THAN THE HOLY SPIRIT. 

 

WHY DO WE CREATE

Its what we were made for…

 

In any activity that we find ourselves aligned/focused/flow

**it is because we are operating something we were created for.

AND WHEN WE CREATE - IT IS A DOUBLE BONUS - because we are creating - which is what we were created for. 

 

 

NOW WATCH THIS

Exodus 31:1-5 — God tells Moses He has called a man named Bezalel by name, and then says this: "I have filled him with the Spirit of God, with wisdom, with understanding, with knowledge, and with all kinds of skills — to make artistic designs for work in gold, silver and bronze, to cut and set stones, to work in wood, and to engage in all kinds of crafts.”

 

Stop and let that sink in. The first time scripture explicitly says someone was "filled with the Spirit of God," it's not a prophet, a king, It's not a warrior. It's a craftsman. An artist. A designer. God fills a man with His Spirit specifically to carve, engrave, and build beautiful things for the tabernacle.

 

 

NOW - here is the trifecta: We were created to create to bring attention to the creator! 

 

 

**Lou Little, a football coach at Georgetown and later Columbia University tells the story of a young player. Not very gifted, but always tried hard. He sat on the bench most every game, but the coach was fond of him. This young mans father came to every game… one day the coach gets a telegram that this young mans father had passed away in the night. He tells the young man to take that game off - The boy refuses. Their team in the middle of the 3rd quarter is getting killed, the boy kept asking to go in, at this point the coach says… what can it hurt. The young man goes in and plays like he is an NFL superstar. After the game the coach asked him the difference. The young man said even though my dad came to every game he was blind - so today was the first day my dad could actually see me play. 

 

What if we looked at creativity this way: God is watching us create so that we can bring him attention.

 

In business

In art

In technology

In agriculture

In social sciences

In finance

In music

In sport

What if we looked at it as if we are creating attention to the father.

 

 

EVERYONE WANTS TO MAKE THEIR DAD PROUD.

How? By being creative in how we perform.

]]> Garth Heckman false No 461 1754 full Once in 7 days-impossible. 10 x's in 45 minutes - Easy! Once in 7 days-impossible. 10 x's in 45 minutes - Easy! https://tda.podbean.com/e/once-in-7-days-impossible-10-xs-in-45-minutes-easy/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/once-in-7-days-impossible-10-xs-in-45-minutes-easy/#comments Mon, 31 Aug 2026 20:44:31 -0500 tda.podbean.com/2548677e-5068-3ad2-b720-67eaf5dc55c3 The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@gmail.com

Garth Heckman

CREATE

 

We see the success, but I think we all enjoy the “early create” stage. Any success starts with creation. 

 

BE LIKE DAD

Humanity is made in God's image, including creative capacity Genesis 1:27 — being made in God's image includes reflecting His nature, and part of that nature is creativity itself. 

humans build, invent, compose, and imagine because we're stamped with the image of a Creator God.

 

 

It runs through out the bible.

Gen. 1 Creation / Curse

John 1 Jesus is the creator / came to break the curse

The REZ is framed as a “Re-creation” not just resuscitation 

2 Cor. 5:17 anyone in him is a new creation

The curse and redemption are bookend in OT-NT

Rev. 21,22 speak of a New Heaven and New Earth

 

CREATION IS STAMPED ALL OVER THE BIBLE! 

 

 

…And we are called to emulate that trait of our Father! 

 

HOW DID DAD CREATE

  1. God creates through His word, not raw material (ex nihilo creation) Genesis 1 repeatedly uses "and God said" — He speaks reality into existence

 

 

 

Proverbs 8:30 describes wisdom as being beside God "like a craftsman" (or "constantly" depending on translation), rejoicing in His presence and rejoicing in the inhabited world. Some translations render this as wisdom being God's "delight" day by day. This has strong creative/imaginative overtones — a Creator who delights in the process of creating, not just the outcome.

 

 

Psalm 104: 24 "How many are your works, LORD! In wisdom you made them all; the earth is full of your creatures." The sheer variety of creation (over 350,000 known species of beetles alone, if you want a modern illustration)

 

 

God does not expect perfection - just creation! 

THERE IS NO 1 PERFECT BEETLE

 

 

True creativity does not focus on one perfect solution… one perfect beetle. But rather numerous solutions

 

**How to get great ideas by Jack Foster: 

They asked students to come up with on great idea for a Swiss knife, they had all week to do it. They stumbled, its hard, its frustrating… they wrecked seeking perfection.

So they changed their strategy. You have to come up with at least 10 and you only have your lunch break to do it.

THEY ENJOYED IT

MORE CREATIVE 

MANY CAME UP WITH WAY MORE THAN 10 IDEAS

 

 

HOW DO WE CREATE - AS SEEN IN SCRIPTURE

We create what’s in us…

**Remember when people hate you - they don’t hate you, that just what’s in them.

 

When people gossip

When people attack your character

When people steal

When people posture above you

When people feel insecure around you

When people judge you

ITS NOT YOU - THAT IS WHATS IN THEM

 

When we create - we create what is in us. 

So make sure you are IN CHRIST! 

 

The most successful people are not the smartest - they are the most creative… proven! 

 

YOU DON’T NEED ANYTHING OTHER THAN THE HOLY SPIRIT. 

 

WHY DO WE CREATE

Its what we were made for…

 

In any activity that we find ourselves aligned/focused/flow

**it is because we are operating something we were created for.

AND WHEN WE CREATE - IT IS A DOUBLE BONUS - because we are creating - which is what we were created for. 

]]> The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@gmail.com

Garth Heckman

CREATE

 

We see the success, but I think we all enjoy the “early create” stage. Any success starts with creation. 

 

BE LIKE DAD

Humanity is made in God's image, including creative capacity Genesis 1:27 — being made in God's image includes reflecting His nature, and part of that nature is creativity itself. 

humans build, invent, compose, and imagine because we're stamped with the image of a Creator God.

 

 

It runs through out the bible.

Gen. 1 Creation / Curse

John 1 Jesus is the creator / came to break the curse

The REZ is framed as a “Re-creation” not just resuscitation 

2 Cor. 5:17 anyone in him is a new creation

The curse and redemption are bookend in OT-NT

Rev. 21,22 speak of a New Heaven and New Earth

 

CREATION IS STAMPED ALL OVER THE BIBLE! 

 

 

…And we are called to emulate that trait of our Father! 

 

HOW DID DAD CREATE

  1. God creates through His word, not raw material (ex nihilo creation) Genesis 1 repeatedly uses "and God said" — He speaks reality into existence

 

 

 

Proverbs 8:30 describes wisdom as being beside God "like a craftsman" (or "constantly" depending on translation), rejoicing in His presence and rejoicing in the inhabited world. Some translations render this as wisdom being God's "delight" day by day. This has strong creative/imaginative overtones — a Creator who delights in the process of creating, not just the outcome.

 

 

Psalm 104: 24 "How many are your works, LORD! In wisdom you made them all; the earth is full of your creatures." The sheer variety of creation (over 350,000 known species of beetles alone, if you want a modern illustration)

 

 

God does not expect perfection - just creation! 

THERE IS NO 1 PERFECT BEETLE

 

 

True creativity does not focus on one perfect solution… one perfect beetle. But rather numerous solutions

 

**How to get great ideas by Jack Foster: 

They asked students to come up with on great idea for a Swiss knife, they had all week to do it. They stumbled, its hard, its frustrating… they wrecked seeking perfection.

So they changed their strategy. You have to come up with at least 10 and you only have your lunch break to do it.

THEY ENJOYED IT

MORE CREATIVE 

MANY CAME UP WITH WAY MORE THAN 10 IDEAS

 

 

HOW DO WE CREATE - AS SEEN IN SCRIPTURE

We create what’s in us…

**Remember when people hate you - they don’t hate you, that just what’s in them.

 

When people gossip

When people attack your character

When people steal

When people posture above you

When people feel insecure around you

When people judge you

ITS NOT YOU - THAT IS WHATS IN THEM

 

When we create - we create what is in us. 

So make sure you are IN CHRIST! 

 

The most successful people are not the smartest - they are the most creative… proven! 

 

YOU DON’T NEED ANYTHING OTHER THAN THE HOLY SPIRIT. 

 

WHY DO WE CREATE

Its what we were made for…

 

In any activity that we find ourselves aligned/focused/flow

**it is because we are operating something we were created for.

AND WHEN WE CREATE - IT IS A DOUBLE BONUS - because we are creating - which is what we were created for. 

]]> Garth Heckman false No 470 1753 full IT"S ALIVE!!! (Wanna feel like God?) IT"S ALIVE!!! (Wanna feel like God?) https://tda.podbean.com/e/its-alive-wanna-feel-like-god/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/its-alive-wanna-feel-like-god/#comments Sun, 30 Aug 2026 19:56:49 -0500 tda.podbean.com/fdb17b53-98e5-30d3-a6f2-e6091bd8afdf The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com

Garth Heckman

CREATE

 

We see the success, but I think we all enjoy the “early create” stage. Any success starts with creation. 

 

BE LIKE DAD

Humanity is made in God's image, including creative capacity Genesis 1:27 — being made in God's image includes reflecting His nature, and part of that nature is creativity itself. 

humans build, invent, compose, and imagine because we're stamped with the image of a Creator God.

 

 

It runs through out the bible.

Gen. 1 Creation / Curse

John 1 Jesus is the creator / came to break the curse

The REZ is framed as a “Re-creation” not just resuscitation 

2 Cor. 5:17 anyone in him is a new creation

The curse and redemption are bookend in OT-NT

Rev. 21,22 speak of a New Heaven and New Earth

 

CREATION IS STAMPED ALL OVER THE BIBLE! 

 

 

…And we are called to emulate that trait of our Father! 

 

HOW DID DAD CREATE

  1. God creates through His word, not raw material (ex nihilo creation) Genesis 1 repeatedly uses "and God said" — He speaks reality into existence

 

 

 

Proverbs 8:30 describes wisdom as being beside God "like a craftsman" (or "constantly" depending on translation), rejoicing in His presence and rejoicing in the inhabited world. Some translations render this as wisdom being God's "delight" day by day. This has strong creative/imaginative overtones — a Creator who delights in the process of creating, not just the outcome.

 

 

Psalm 104: 24 "How many are your works, LORD! In wisdom you made them all; the earth is full of your creatures." The sheer variety of creation (over 350,000 known species of beetles alone, if you want a modern illustration)

 

 

God does not expect perfection - just creation! 

THERE IS NO 1 PERFECT BEETLE

]]> The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com

Garth Heckman

CREATE

 

We see the success, but I think we all enjoy the “early create” stage. Any success starts with creation. 

 

BE LIKE DAD

Humanity is made in God's image, including creative capacity Genesis 1:27 — being made in God's image includes reflecting His nature, and part of that nature is creativity itself. 

humans build, invent, compose, and imagine because we're stamped with the image of a Creator God.

 

 

It runs through out the bible.

Gen. 1 Creation / Curse

John 1 Jesus is the creator / came to break the curse

The REZ is framed as a “Re-creation” not just resuscitation 

2 Cor. 5:17 anyone in him is a new creation

The curse and redemption are bookend in OT-NT

Rev. 21,22 speak of a New Heaven and New Earth

 

CREATION IS STAMPED ALL OVER THE BIBLE! 

 

 

…And we are called to emulate that trait of our Father! 

 

HOW DID DAD CREATE

  1. God creates through His word, not raw material (ex nihilo creation) Genesis 1 repeatedly uses "and God said" — He speaks reality into existence

 

 

 

Proverbs 8:30 describes wisdom as being beside God "like a craftsman" (or "constantly" depending on translation), rejoicing in His presence and rejoicing in the inhabited world. Some translations render this as wisdom being God's "delight" day by day. This has strong creative/imaginative overtones — a Creator who delights in the process of creating, not just the outcome.

 

 

Psalm 104: 24 "How many are your works, LORD! In wisdom you made them all; the earth is full of your creatures." The sheer variety of creation (over 350,000 known species of beetles alone, if you want a modern illustration)

 

 

God does not expect perfection - just creation! 

THERE IS NO 1 PERFECT BEETLE

]]> Garth Heckman false No 467 1752 full 3 steps to NOT Walk on Eggshells 3 steps to NOT Walk on Eggshells https://tda.podbean.com/e/3-steps-to-not-walk-on-eggshells/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/3-steps-to-not-walk-on-eggshells/#comments Thu, 27 Aug 2026 22:25:43 -0500 tda.podbean.com/49fc359b-e093-3e17-9e30-702c52078b09 The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com

Garth Heckman

 

1 Samuel 18:10-11 (Uncontrolled Rage): Saul’s jealousy quickly escalated into murderous anger. While David was playing the lyre to soothe him, Saul was overcome by an evil spirit and his own rage, throwing his spear at David twice in an attempt to pin him to the wall.

 

Emotional volatility becomes a discipleship excuse instead of a growth area. 

"I just felt led" or 

"I couldn't help how I reacted" 

“We are in Love”. 

“She started it”.

“It was Tuesday” 

 

The flesh wether in a high or a low is meant to be cultivated by the fruits of the Spirit! 

 

I love what Socrates said “any virtue in and of itself is a danger, it must be balanced with another virtue.

i.e. if you are generous but do not balance that with wisdom, you will give all your money away and your family will starve. This is what the fruits of the Spirit do for us when in the midst of great emotion.

 

 

(Galatians 5:22-23) — Living by emotion trains a man to treat every strong feeling as a legitimate directive rather than something to bring under Christ's authority (2 Corinthians 10:5).

 

 

1 Samuel 22:7-8 (Paranoia and Self-Pity): Gripped by paranoia, Saul accused his own servants of conspiring against him. His emotional outburst was steeped in self-pity as he complained, "Is there no one of you who is sorry for me?"—a delusion that directly led to the slaughter of the priests of Nob.

 

It destabilizes relationships and leadership. A man who leads his home, church, or business based on how he feels that day becomes unpredictable — and unpredictability erodes trust. Proverbs repeatedly contrasts the "fool" who is ruled by impulse with the wise man who exercises restraint (Proverbs 14:29, 29:11).

 

 

What if someone outshines you? 

 

**Here is an example… what if you get asked to leave your church and then it explodes with growth and miracles?

       The flesh - what? 

The Spirit - Great! 

You will respond according to which one you have trained the most under the leading of the Holy Spirit! 

 

 

 

 

Emotions are NOT bad or that Christians should suppress them. 

Jesus wept, felt righteous anger, questioned authority, expressed anguish. 

 

****The danger isn't having emotions — it's letting emotion replace truth as the authority governing belief and action. The healthy target is emotions submitted to and informed by truth, not emotions eliminated or truth stripped of feeling.

 

 

Saul’s ultimate downfall was not a lack of talent or opportunity; it was a fundamental flaw in his internal compass. Saul lived a life governed by feelings rather than character. Character does what is right regardless of how it feels, whereas emotion demands immediate gratification and acts on impulse. When pressure mounted, Saul allowed fear, impatience, jealousy, and pride to dictate his choices.

 

 

 

To build a life of character rather than emotion:

 

 

  1. Surrender your impulses to God’s Word: Do what God says even when your feelings resist.

 

  1. Value obedience over appearance: Do not let the fear of what others think pull you into partial obedience.

 

  1. Anchor your heart in trial: When panic, jealousy, or insecurity arise, name the emotion, but let God’s truth guide your next step.

 

 

 

A well-known psychological metaphor (popularized by Dr. Steven Hayes in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) describes appeasing internal pain or anxiety: "If you feed a pet tiger meat to keep it quiet, it only grows larger and 

]]> The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com

Garth Heckman

 

1 Samuel 18:10-11 (Uncontrolled Rage): Saul’s jealousy quickly escalated into murderous anger. While David was playing the lyre to soothe him, Saul was overcome by an evil spirit and his own rage, throwing his spear at David twice in an attempt to pin him to the wall.

 

Emotional volatility becomes a discipleship excuse instead of a growth area. 

"I just felt led" or 

"I couldn't help how I reacted" 

“We are in Love”. 

“She started it”.

“It was Tuesday” 

 

The flesh wether in a high or a low is meant to be cultivated by the fruits of the Spirit! 

 

I love what Socrates said “any virtue in and of itself is a danger, it must be balanced with another virtue.

i.e. if you are generous but do not balance that with wisdom, you will give all your money away and your family will starve. This is what the fruits of the Spirit do for us when in the midst of great emotion.

 

 

(Galatians 5:22-23) — Living by emotion trains a man to treat every strong feeling as a legitimate directive rather than something to bring under Christ's authority (2 Corinthians 10:5).

 

 

1 Samuel 22:7-8 (Paranoia and Self-Pity): Gripped by paranoia, Saul accused his own servants of conspiring against him. His emotional outburst was steeped in self-pity as he complained, "Is there no one of you who is sorry for me?"—a delusion that directly led to the slaughter of the priests of Nob.

 

It destabilizes relationships and leadership. A man who leads his home, church, or business based on how he feels that day becomes unpredictable — and unpredictability erodes trust. Proverbs repeatedly contrasts the "fool" who is ruled by impulse with the wise man who exercises restraint (Proverbs 14:29, 29:11).

 

 

What if someone outshines you? 

 

**Here is an example… what if you get asked to leave your church and then it explodes with growth and miracles?

       The flesh - what? 

The Spirit - Great! 

You will respond according to which one you have trained the most under the leading of the Holy Spirit! 

 

 

 

 

Emotions are NOT bad or that Christians should suppress them. 

Jesus wept, felt righteous anger, questioned authority, expressed anguish. 

 

****The danger isn't having emotions — it's letting emotion replace truth as the authority governing belief and action. The healthy target is emotions submitted to and informed by truth, not emotions eliminated or truth stripped of feeling.

 

 

Saul’s ultimate downfall was not a lack of talent or opportunity; it was a fundamental flaw in his internal compass. Saul lived a life governed by feelings rather than character. Character does what is right regardless of how it feels, whereas emotion demands immediate gratification and acts on impulse. When pressure mounted, Saul allowed fear, impatience, jealousy, and pride to dictate his choices.

 

 

 

To build a life of character rather than emotion:

 

 

  1. Surrender your impulses to God’s Word: Do what God says even when your feelings resist.

 

  1. Value obedience over appearance: Do not let the fear of what others think pull you into partial obedience.

 

  1. Anchor your heart in trial: When panic, jealousy, or insecurity arise, name the emotion, but let God’s truth guide your next step.

 

 

 

A well-known psychological metaphor (popularized by Dr. Steven Hayes in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) describes appeasing internal pain or anxiety: "If you feed a pet tiger meat to keep it quiet, it only grows larger and 

]]> Garth Heckman false No 462 1751 full Any Virtue by itself is an Evil! Any Virtue by itself is an Evil! https://tda.podbean.com/e/any-virtue-by-itself-is-an-evil/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/any-virtue-by-itself-is-an-evil/#comments Wed, 26 Aug 2026 18:39:17 -0500 tda.podbean.com/0d803986-bb2c-394e-84c0-73adfd6632a1 The David Alliance 

TDAgiantSlayer@gmail.com

Garth Heckman

Urge

 

INTRO: Its a strange memory at best: A young man at church - my sister Renee’s friend. HS stud athlete, great looking, always jumping in and out of bed with whomever he could. Now in his early 30’s he came to church and Renee said one night after church… he better hurry up and figure out life - his hair is getting thinner and his glasses are getting thicker. 

Funny, sad, but telling of his life falling apart. He lived his life by his emotions… his “URGES” if you will. 

 

the phrase "a piece of work" originated as a high compliment before evolving over centuries into a sarcastic insult.

The Literary Origin

Its earliest famous usage comes from William Shakespeare’s Hamlet (around 1601). In Act II, Scene 2, Prince Hamlet marvels at the creation of humanity:

"What a piece of work is a man! How noble in reason, how infinite in faculty..."

 

 

 

He’s a piece of work

ISRAELS FIRST KING! 

King Saul had it all but lost his call as a know it all only to fall. 

 

 

Saul’s ultimate downfall was not a lack of talent or opportunity; it was a fundamental flaw in his internal compass. Saul lived a life governed by feelings rather than character.

 

 

Have you ever met someone who lives by their emotions/feelings/the wind?

 

 

I used to say to my boys… “dad is in a bad mood today, so don’t push it”. WHAT I WAS REALLY SAYING WAS DAD IS IN THE FLESH… LIVING BY HIS URGES! 

 

 

 

Romans 8:5 Those who are dominated by the sinful nature think about sinful things, but those who are controlled by the Holy Spirit think about things that please the Spirit. 6 So letting your sinful nature control your mind leads to death. But letting the Spirit control your mind leads to life and peace. 7 For the sinful nature is always hostile to God. It never did obey God’s laws, and it never will. 8 That’s why those who are still under the control of their sinful nature can never please God.

9 But you are not controlled by your sinful nature. You are controlled by the Spirit if you have the Spirit of God living in you. (And remember that those who do not have the Spirit of Christ living in them do not belong to him at all.)

 

 

 

 

King Saul highlights critical decisions based on fear, jealousy, and impulsivity rather than steadfast character and obedience.

 

 

1 Samuel 13:8-12 (Impatience and Panic): When the prophet Samuel delayed his arrival and the Israelite army began to scatter out of fear, Saul panicked. Instead of trusting God and waiting, his anxiety drove him to unlawfully offer the burnt offering himself.

Emotions make God's Word feel optional rather than authoritative. When feelings become the filter for truth, scripture gets reduced to "does this resonate with me" instead of "is this what God said." Jeremiah 17:9 warns that the heart is deceitful above all things — not evil in a cartoonish sense, but genuinely unreliable as a final authority. A Christian who only obeys when it feels right isn't actually submitted to Christ's lordship; they're submitted to their own emotional state, with God's Word as an occasional consultant rather than the authority.

 

Abortion, adultery, fornication, bitterness, gossip… emotions muddy up the water.

 

Anterior Midcingulate Cortex it behaves like a muscle, shrinking when underused and expanding physically when you engage in effortful, resistance-heavy activities.

 

Anatomy of the aMCC

  • The Friction Requirement: The aMCC only grows when you face friction or internal resistance. Pushing through a workout you love doesn't trigger the same growth as forcing yourself to do a workout—or a task—that you genuinely do not want to do

 

 

The Battle of Sarx (The Flesh): Paul describes the "flesh" not merely as the physical body, but as the path of least resistance—primal drives, comfort-seeking, and self-preservation. 

 

The body only wants to eat, sleep be tickled and have sex! 

 

 

In Galatians 5:17, he notes: "For the flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh. They are in conflict with each other." The subjective internal friction you feel when forcing yourself to do a hard task is the exact experiential battleground Paul describes.

Mortification (Nekroo): In Colossians 3:5 and Romans 8:13, the New Testament commands believers to "put to death" or "mortify" lower impulses. This is not a passive event; it is an active, effortful override of natural inclination—the exact stimulus that drives aMCC hypertrophy.

 

 

How do you put to death the desires of the flesh?

Lets put this misconception to bed for good!

You do the opposite of the flesh according to scripture.

 

 

 

1 Samuel 14:24, 43-44 (Rashness and Impulsivity): Driven by the heat of battle, Saul made a foolish, impulsive oath binding his army to fast until evening. This emotional decision left his men exhausted and nearly resulted in the execution of his own son, Jonathan, who had unknowingly eaten honey.

 

Emotional highs get mistaken for spiritual maturity. Feeling moved during worship, feeling peace after a decision, feeling conviction in the moment — these can be real and God-given, but they can also be manufactured by music, social pressure, or just brain chemistry. The danger is building a faith that needs a constant emotional high to feel "real," which sets people up to crash hard when the feelings fade — and many walk away from faith entirely when the emotional experience stops delivering, mistaking the absence of feeling for the absence of God.

 

**When emotions supersede logic or common sense, they will typically supersede Gods best as well.

 

 

MANY/MOST times God will ask you to do something that goes against your emotions! 

 

1 Samuel 15:24 (Fear of Man over Integrity): After failing to completely destroy the Amalekites as God commanded, Saul shifted the blame. He finally confessed to Samuel that his lack of character stemmed from insecurity, stating: "I was afraid of the men and so I gave in to them.”

Remember… He’s the King! And he is afraid of the men?

It makes obedience conditional instead of covenantal. 

Abraham didn't feel like sacrificing Isaac. 

Jesus, didn't feel like going to the cross — 

 

Obeying when you feel like it is not obedience its convenience! 

 

men: leading a family, staying faithful in a hard marriage, disciplining kids, showing up to serve when you're exhausted — none of that runs on feelings. It runs on covenant commitment that outlasts emotion.

 

*If I win the lottery I will definitely tithe and even give more than 10%. 

NOPE! If you can’t give $10 out of $100 you won’t give 1 Million out of 100 Million. 

 

 

1 Samuel 18:10-11 (Uncontrolled Rage): Saul’s jealousy quickly escalated into murderous anger. While David was playing the lyre to soothe him, Saul was overcome by an evil spirit and his own rage, throwing his spear at David twice in an attempt to pin him to the wall.

 

Emotional volatility becomes a discipleship excuse instead of a growth area. 

"I just felt led" or 

"I couldn't help how I reacted" 

“We are in Love”. 

“She started it”.

“It was Tuesday” 

 

The flesh wether in a high or a low is meant to be cultivated by the fruits of the Spirit! 

 

I love what Socrates said “any virtue in and of itself is a danger, it must be balanced with another virtue.

i.e. if you are generous but do not balance that with wisdom, you will give all your money away and your family will starve. This is what the fruits of the Spirit do for us when in the midst of great emotion.

]]> The David Alliance 

TDAgiantSlayer@gmail.com

Garth Heckman

Urge

 

INTRO: Its a strange memory at best: A young man at church - my sister Renee’s friend. HS stud athlete, great looking, always jumping in and out of bed with whomever he could. Now in his early 30’s he came to church and Renee said one night after church… he better hurry up and figure out life - his hair is getting thinner and his glasses are getting thicker. 

Funny, sad, but telling of his life falling apart. He lived his life by his emotions… his “URGES” if you will. 

 

the phrase "a piece of work" originated as a high compliment before evolving over centuries into a sarcastic insult.

The Literary Origin

Its earliest famous usage comes from William Shakespeare’s Hamlet (around 1601). In Act II, Scene 2, Prince Hamlet marvels at the creation of humanity:

"What a piece of work is a man! How noble in reason, how infinite in faculty..."

 

 

 

He’s a piece of work

ISRAELS FIRST KING! 

King Saul had it all but lost his call as a know it all only to fall. 

 

 

Saul’s ultimate downfall was not a lack of talent or opportunity; it was a fundamental flaw in his internal compass. Saul lived a life governed by feelings rather than character.

 

 

Have you ever met someone who lives by their emotions/feelings/the wind?

 

 

I used to say to my boys… “dad is in a bad mood today, so don’t push it”. WHAT I WAS REALLY SAYING WAS DAD IS IN THE FLESH… LIVING BY HIS URGES! 

 

 

 

Romans 8:5 Those who are dominated by the sinful nature think about sinful things, but those who are controlled by the Holy Spirit think about things that please the Spirit. 6 So letting your sinful nature control your mind leads to death. But letting the Spirit control your mind leads to life and peace. 7 For the sinful nature is always hostile to God. It never did obey God’s laws, and it never will. 8 That’s why those who are still under the control of their sinful nature can never please God.

9 But you are not controlled by your sinful nature. You are controlled by the Spirit if you have the Spirit of God living in you. (And remember that those who do not have the Spirit of Christ living in them do not belong to him at all.)

 

 

 

 

King Saul highlights critical decisions based on fear, jealousy, and impulsivity rather than steadfast character and obedience.

 

 

1 Samuel 13:8-12 (Impatience and Panic): When the prophet Samuel delayed his arrival and the Israelite army began to scatter out of fear, Saul panicked. Instead of trusting God and waiting, his anxiety drove him to unlawfully offer the burnt offering himself.


Emotions make God's Word feel optional rather than authoritative. When feelings become the filter for truth, scripture gets reduced to "does this resonate with me" instead of "is this what God said." Jeremiah 17:9 warns that the heart is deceitful above all things — not evil in a cartoonish sense, but genuinely unreliable as a final authority. A Christian who only obeys when it feels right isn't actually submitted to Christ's lordship; they're submitted to their own emotional state, with God's Word as an occasional consultant rather than the authority.

 

Abortion, adultery, fornication, bitterness, gossip… emotions muddy up the water.

 

Anterior Midcingulate Cortex it behaves like a muscle, shrinking when underused and expanding physically when you engage in effortful, resistance-heavy activities.

 

Anatomy of the aMCC

  • The Friction Requirement: The aMCC only grows when you face friction or internal resistance. Pushing through a workout you love doesn't trigger the same growth as forcing yourself to do a workout—or a task—that you genuinely do not want to do

 

 

The Battle of Sarx (The Flesh): Paul describes the "flesh" not merely as the physical body, but as the path of least resistance—primal drives, comfort-seeking, and self-preservation. 

 

The body only wants to eat, sleep be tickled and have sex! 

 

 

In Galatians 5:17, he notes: "For the flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh. They are in conflict with each other." The subjective internal friction you feel when forcing yourself to do a hard task is the exact experiential battleground Paul describes.

Mortification (Nekroo): In Colossians 3:5 and Romans 8:13, the New Testament commands believers to "put to death" or "mortify" lower impulses. This is not a passive event; it is an active, effortful override of natural inclination—the exact stimulus that drives aMCC hypertrophy.

 

 

How do you put to death the desires of the flesh?

Lets put this misconception to bed for good!

You do the opposite of the flesh according to scripture.

 

 

 

1 Samuel 14:24, 43-44 (Rashness and Impulsivity): Driven by the heat of battle, Saul made a foolish, impulsive oath binding his army to fast until evening. This emotional decision left his men exhausted and nearly resulted in the execution of his own son, Jonathan, who had unknowingly eaten honey.

 

Emotional highs get mistaken for spiritual maturity. Feeling moved during worship, feeling peace after a decision, feeling conviction in the moment — these can be real and God-given, but they can also be manufactured by music, social pressure, or just brain chemistry. The danger is building a faith that needs a constant emotional high to feel "real," which sets people up to crash hard when the feelings fade — and many walk away from faith entirely when the emotional experience stops delivering, mistaking the absence of feeling for the absence of God.

 

**When emotions supersede logic or common sense, they will typically supersede Gods best as well.

 

 

MANY/MOST times God will ask you to do something that goes against your emotions! 

 

1 Samuel 15:24 (Fear of Man over Integrity): After failing to completely destroy the Amalekites as God commanded, Saul shifted the blame. He finally confessed to Samuel that his lack of character stemmed from insecurity, stating: "I was afraid of the men and so I gave in to them.”

Remember… He’s the King! And he is afraid of the men?

It makes obedience conditional instead of covenantal. 

Abraham didn't feel like sacrificing Isaac. 

Jesus, didn't feel like going to the cross — 

 

Obeying when you feel like it is not obedience its convenience! 

 

men: leading a family, staying faithful in a hard marriage, disciplining kids, showing up to serve when you're exhausted — none of that runs on feelings. It runs on covenant commitment that outlasts emotion.

 

*If I win the lottery I will definitely tithe and even give more than 10%. 

NOPE! If you can’t give $10 out of $100 you won’t give 1 Million out of 100 Million. 

 

 

1 Samuel 18:10-11 (Uncontrolled Rage): Saul’s jealousy quickly escalated into murderous anger. While David was playing the lyre to soothe him, Saul was overcome by an evil spirit and his own rage, throwing his spear at David twice in an attempt to pin him to the wall.

 

Emotional volatility becomes a discipleship excuse instead of a growth area. 

"I just felt led" or 

"I couldn't help how I reacted" 

“We are in Love”. 

“She started it”.

“It was Tuesday” 

 

The flesh wether in a high or a low is meant to be cultivated by the fruits of the Spirit! 

 

I love what Socrates said “any virtue in and of itself is a danger, it must be balanced with another virtue.

i.e. if you are generous but do not balance that with wisdom, you will give all your money away and your family will starve. This is what the fruits of the Spirit do for us when in the midst of great emotion.

]]> Garth Heckman false No 464 1750 full Impulsivity... "Squirrel"! Impulsivity... "Squirrel"! https://tda.podbean.com/e/impulsivity-squirrel/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/impulsivity-squirrel/#comments Tue, 25 Aug 2026 20:23:20 -0500 tda.podbean.com/c8a1cc37-aba3-36cc-bf2b-779a844f476d The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com 

Garth Heckman

 

INTRO: Its a strange memory at best: A young man at church - my sister Renee’s friend. HS stud athlete, great looking, always jumping in and out of bed with whomever he could. Now in his early 30’s he came to church and Renee said one night after church… he better hurry up and figure out life - his hair is getting thinner and his glasses are getting thicker. 

Funny, sad, but telling of his life falling apart. He lived his life by his emotions… his “URGES” if you will. 

 

the phrase "a piece of work" originated as a high compliment before evolving over centuries into a sarcastic insult.

The Literary Origin

Its earliest famous usage comes from William Shakespeare’s Hamlet (around 1601). In Act II, Scene 2, Prince Hamlet marvels at the creation of humanity:

"What a piece of work is a man! How noble in reason, how infinite in faculty..."

 

 

 

He’s a piece of work

ISRAELS FIRST KING! 

King Saul had it all but lost his call as a know it all only to fall. 

 

 

Saul’s ultimate downfall was not a lack of talent or opportunity; it was a fundamental flaw in his internal compass. Saul lived a life governed by feelings rather than character.

 

 

Have you ever met someone who lives by their emotions/feelings/the wind?

 

 

I used to say to my boys… “dad is in a bad mood today, so don’t push it”. WHAT I WAS REALLY SAYING WAS DAD IS IN THE FLESH… LIVING BY HIS URGES! 

 

 

 

Romans 8:5 Those who are dominated by the sinful nature think about sinful things, but those who are controlled by the Holy Spirit think about things that please the Spirit. 6 So letting your sinful nature control your mind leads to death. But letting the Spirit control your mind leads to life and peace. 7 For the sinful nature is always hostile to God. It never did obey God’s laws, and it never will. 8 That’s why those who are still under the control of their sinful nature can never please God.

9 But you are not controlled by your sinful nature. You are controlled by the Spirit if you have the Spirit of God living in you. (And remember that those who do not have the Spirit of Christ living in them do not belong to him at all.)

 

 

 

 

King Saul highlights critical decisions based on fear, jealousy, and impulsivity rather than steadfast character and obedience.

 

 

1 Samuel 13:8-12 (Impatience and Panic): When the prophet Samuel delayed his arrival and the Israelite army began to scatter out of fear, Saul panicked. Instead of trusting God and waiting, his anxiety drove him to unlawfully offer the burnt offering himself.

Emotions make God's Word feel optional rather than authoritative. When feelings become the filter for truth, scripture gets reduced to "does this resonate with me" instead of "is this what God said." Jeremiah 17:9 warns that the heart is deceitful above all things — not evil in a cartoonish sense, but genuinely unreliable as a final authority. A Christian who only obeys when it feels right isn't actually submitted to Christ's lordship; they're submitted to their own emotional state, with God's Word as an occasional consultant rather than the authority.

 

Abortion, adultery, fornication, bitterness, gossip… emotions muddy up the water.

 

Anterior Midcingulate Cortex it behaves like a muscle, shrinking when underused and expanding physically when you engage in effortful, resistance-heavy activities.

 

Anatomy of the aMCC

  • The Friction Requirement: The aMCC only grows when you face friction or internal resistance. Pushing through a workout you love doesn't trigger the same growth as forcing yourself to do a workout—or a task—that you genuinely do not want to do

 

 

The Battle of Sarx (The Flesh): Paul describes the "flesh" not merely as the physical body, but as the path of least resistance—primal drives, comfort-seeking, and self-preservation. 

 

The body only wants to eat, sleep be tickled and have sex! 

 

 

In Galatians 5:17, he notes: "For the flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh. They are in conflict with each other." The subjective internal friction you feel when forcing yourself to do a hard task is the exact experiential battleground Paul describes.

Mortification (Nekroo): In Colossians 3:5 and Romans 8:13, the New Testament commands believers to "put to death" or "mortify" lower impulses. This is not a passive event; it is an active, effortful override of natural inclination—the exact stimulus that drives aMCC hypertrophy.

 

 

How do you put to death the desires of the flesh?

Lets put this misconception to bed for good!

You do the opposite of the flesh according to scripture.

 

 

 

1 Samuel 14:24, 43-44 (Rashness and Impulsivity): Driven by the heat of battle, Saul made a foolish, impulsive oath binding his army to fast until evening. This emotional decision left his men exhausted and nearly resulted in the execution of his own son, Jonathan, who had unknowingly eaten honey.

 

Emotional highs get mistaken for spiritual maturity. Feeling moved during worship, feeling peace after a decision, feeling conviction in the moment — these can be real and God-given, but they can also be manufactured by music, social pressure, or just brain chemistry. The danger is building a faith that needs a constant emotional high to feel "real," which sets people up to crash hard when the feelings fade — and many walk away from faith entirely when the emotional experience stops delivering, mistaking the absence of feeling for the absence of God.

 

**When emotions supersede logic or common sense, they will typically supersede Gods best as well.

 

 

MANY/MOST times God will ask you to do something that goes against your emotions! 

]]> The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com 

Garth Heckman

 

INTRO: Its a strange memory at best: A young man at church - my sister Renee’s friend. HS stud athlete, great looking, always jumping in and out of bed with whomever he could. Now in his early 30’s he came to church and Renee said one night after church… he better hurry up and figure out life - his hair is getting thinner and his glasses are getting thicker. 

Funny, sad, but telling of his life falling apart. He lived his life by his emotions… his “URGES” if you will. 

 

the phrase "a piece of work" originated as a high compliment before evolving over centuries into a sarcastic insult.

The Literary Origin

Its earliest famous usage comes from William Shakespeare’s Hamlet (around 1601). In Act II, Scene 2, Prince Hamlet marvels at the creation of humanity:

"What a piece of work is a man! How noble in reason, how infinite in faculty..."

 

 

 

He’s a piece of work

ISRAELS FIRST KING! 

King Saul had it all but lost his call as a know it all only to fall. 

 

 

Saul’s ultimate downfall was not a lack of talent or opportunity; it was a fundamental flaw in his internal compass. Saul lived a life governed by feelings rather than character.

 

 

Have you ever met someone who lives by their emotions/feelings/the wind?

 

 

I used to say to my boys… “dad is in a bad mood today, so don’t push it”. WHAT I WAS REALLY SAYING WAS DAD IS IN THE FLESH… LIVING BY HIS URGES! 

 

 

 

Romans 8:5 Those who are dominated by the sinful nature think about sinful things, but those who are controlled by the Holy Spirit think about things that please the Spirit. 6 So letting your sinful nature control your mind leads to death. But letting the Spirit control your mind leads to life and peace. 7 For the sinful nature is always hostile to God. It never did obey God’s laws, and it never will. 8 That’s why those who are still under the control of their sinful nature can never please God.

9 But you are not controlled by your sinful nature. You are controlled by the Spirit if you have the Spirit of God living in you. (And remember that those who do not have the Spirit of Christ living in them do not belong to him at all.)

 

 

 

 

King Saul highlights critical decisions based on fear, jealousy, and impulsivity rather than steadfast character and obedience.

 

 

1 Samuel 13:8-12 (Impatience and Panic): When the prophet Samuel delayed his arrival and the Israelite army began to scatter out of fear, Saul panicked. Instead of trusting God and waiting, his anxiety drove him to unlawfully offer the burnt offering himself.


Emotions make God's Word feel optional rather than authoritative. When feelings become the filter for truth, scripture gets reduced to "does this resonate with me" instead of "is this what God said." Jeremiah 17:9 warns that the heart is deceitful above all things — not evil in a cartoonish sense, but genuinely unreliable as a final authority. A Christian who only obeys when it feels right isn't actually submitted to Christ's lordship; they're submitted to their own emotional state, with God's Word as an occasional consultant rather than the authority.

 

Abortion, adultery, fornication, bitterness, gossip… emotions muddy up the water.

 

Anterior Midcingulate Cortex it behaves like a muscle, shrinking when underused and expanding physically when you engage in effortful, resistance-heavy activities.

 

Anatomy of the aMCC

  • The Friction Requirement: The aMCC only grows when you face friction or internal resistance. Pushing through a workout you love doesn't trigger the same growth as forcing yourself to do a workout—or a task—that you genuinely do not want to do

 

 

The Battle of Sarx (The Flesh): Paul describes the "flesh" not merely as the physical body, but as the path of least resistance—primal drives, comfort-seeking, and self-preservation. 

 

The body only wants to eat, sleep be tickled and have sex! 

 

 

In Galatians 5:17, he notes: "For the flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh. They are in conflict with each other." The subjective internal friction you feel when forcing yourself to do a hard task is the exact experiential battleground Paul describes.

Mortification (Nekroo): In Colossians 3:5 and Romans 8:13, the New Testament commands believers to "put to death" or "mortify" lower impulses. This is not a passive event; it is an active, effortful override of natural inclination—the exact stimulus that drives aMCC hypertrophy.

 

 

How do you put to death the desires of the flesh?

Lets put this misconception to bed for good!

You do the opposite of the flesh according to scripture.

 

 

 

1 Samuel 14:24, 43-44 (Rashness and Impulsivity): Driven by the heat of battle, Saul made a foolish, impulsive oath binding his army to fast until evening. This emotional decision left his men exhausted and nearly resulted in the execution of his own son, Jonathan, who had unknowingly eaten honey.

 

Emotional highs get mistaken for spiritual maturity. Feeling moved during worship, feeling peace after a decision, feeling conviction in the moment — these can be real and God-given, but they can also be manufactured by music, social pressure, or just brain chemistry. The danger is building a faith that needs a constant emotional high to feel "real," which sets people up to crash hard when the feelings fade — and many walk away from faith entirely when the emotional experience stops delivering, mistaking the absence of feeling for the absence of God.

 

**When emotions supersede logic or common sense, they will typically supersede Gods best as well.

 

 

MANY/MOST times God will ask you to do something that goes against your emotions! 

]]> Garth Heckman false No 467 1749 full YOU must Kill it! YOU must Kill it! https://tda.podbean.com/e/you-must-kill-it/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/you-must-kill-it/#comments Mon, 24 Aug 2026 19:45:31 -0500 tda.podbean.com/372087e0-30e1-3945-b68e-7f0cd38cd942 The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com 

Garth Heckman

 

King Saul highlights critical decisions based on fear, jealousy, and impulsivity rather than steadfast character and obedience.

 

1 Samuel 13:8-12 (Impatience and Panic): When the prophet Samuel delayed his arrival and the Israelite army began to scatter out of fear, Saul panicked. Instead of trusting God and waiting, his anxiety drove him to unlawfully offer the burnt offering himself.

Emotions make God's Word feel optional rather than authoritative. When feelings become the filter for truth, scripture gets reduced to "does this resonate with me" instead of "is this what God said." Jeremiah 17:9 warns that the heart is deceitful above all things — not evil in a cartoonish sense, but genuinely unreliable as a final authority. A Christian who only obeys when it feels right isn't actually submitted to Christ's lordship; they're submitted to their own emotional state, with God's Word as an occasional consultant rather than the authority.

 

Abortion, adultery, fornication, bitterness, gossip… emotions muddy up the water.

 

Anterior Midcingulate Cortex it behaves like a muscle, shrinking when underused and expanding physically when you engage in effortful, resistance-heavy activities.

 

Anatomy of the aMCC

  • The Friction Requirement: The aMCC only grows when you face friction or internal resistance. Pushing through a workout you love doesn't trigger the same growth as forcing yourself to do a workout—or a task—that you genuinely do not want to do

 

 

The Battle of Sarx (The Flesh): Paul describes the "flesh" not merely as the physical body, but as the path of least resistance—primal drives, comfort-seeking, and self-preservation. 

 

The body only wants to eat, sleep be tickled and have sex! 

 

 

In Galatians 5:17, he notes: "For the flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh. They are in conflict with each other." The subjective internal friction you feel when forcing yourself to do a hard task is the exact experiential battleground Paul describes.

Mortification (Nekroo): In Colossians 3:5 and Romans 8:13, the New Testament commands believers to "put to death" or "mortify" lower impulses. This is not a passive event; it is an active, effortful override of natural inclination—the exact stimulus that drives aMCC hypertrophy.

 

 

How do you put to death the desires of the flesh?

Lets put this misconception to bed for good!

You do the opposite of the flesh according to scripture.

]]> The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com 

Garth Heckman

 

King Saul highlights critical decisions based on fear, jealousy, and impulsivity rather than steadfast character and obedience.

 

1 Samuel 13:8-12 (Impatience and Panic): When the prophet Samuel delayed his arrival and the Israelite army began to scatter out of fear, Saul panicked. Instead of trusting God and waiting, his anxiety drove him to unlawfully offer the burnt offering himself.


Emotions make God's Word feel optional rather than authoritative. When feelings become the filter for truth, scripture gets reduced to "does this resonate with me" instead of "is this what God said." Jeremiah 17:9 warns that the heart is deceitful above all things — not evil in a cartoonish sense, but genuinely unreliable as a final authority. A Christian who only obeys when it feels right isn't actually submitted to Christ's lordship; they're submitted to their own emotional state, with God's Word as an occasional consultant rather than the authority.

 

Abortion, adultery, fornication, bitterness, gossip… emotions muddy up the water.

 

Anterior Midcingulate Cortex it behaves like a muscle, shrinking when underused and expanding physically when you engage in effortful, resistance-heavy activities.

 

Anatomy of the aMCC

  • The Friction Requirement: The aMCC only grows when you face friction or internal resistance. Pushing through a workout you love doesn't trigger the same growth as forcing yourself to do a workout—or a task—that you genuinely do not want to do

 

 

The Battle of Sarx (The Flesh): Paul describes the "flesh" not merely as the physical body, but as the path of least resistance—primal drives, comfort-seeking, and self-preservation. 

 

The body only wants to eat, sleep be tickled and have sex! 

 

 

In Galatians 5:17, he notes: "For the flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh. They are in conflict with each other." The subjective internal friction you feel when forcing yourself to do a hard task is the exact experiential battleground Paul describes.

Mortification (Nekroo): In Colossians 3:5 and Romans 8:13, the New Testament commands believers to "put to death" or "mortify" lower impulses. This is not a passive event; it is an active, effortful override of natural inclination—the exact stimulus that drives aMCC hypertrophy.

 

 

How do you put to death the desires of the flesh?

Lets put this misconception to bed for good!

You do the opposite of the flesh according to scripture.

]]> Garth Heckman false No 472 1748 full What a piece of Work! What a piece of Work! https://tda.podbean.com/e/what-a-piece-of-work/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/what-a-piece-of-work/#comments Sun, 23 Aug 2026 18:59:55 -0500 tda.podbean.com/a0f74eaf-b3df-330a-877f-b3cd0defcd22 The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com

Garth Heckman

INTRO: Its a strange memory at best: A young man at church - my sister Renee’s friend. HS stud athlete, great looking, always jumping in and out of bed with whomever he could. Now in his early 30’s he came to church and Renee said one night after church… he better hurry up and figure out life - his hair is getting thinner and his glasses are getting thicker. 

Funny, sad, but telling of his life falling apart. He lived his life by his emotions… his “URGES” if you will. 

 

the phrase "a piece of work" originated as a high compliment before evolving over centuries into a sarcastic insult.

The Literary Origin

Its earliest famous usage comes from William Shakespeare’s Hamlet (around 1601). In Act II, Scene 2, Prince Hamlet marvels at the creation of humanity:

"What a piece of work is a man! How noble in reason, how infinite in faculty..."

 

 

 

He’s a piece of work

ISRAELS FIRST KING! 

King Saul had it all but lost his call as a know it all only to fall. 

 

 

Saul’s ultimate downfall was not a lack of talent or opportunity; it was a fundamental flaw in his internal compass. Saul lived a life governed by feelings rather than character.

 

 

Have you ever met someone who lives by their emotions/feelings/the wind?

 

 

I used to say to my boys… “dad is in a bad mood today, so don’t push it”. WHAT I WAS REALLY SAYING WAS DAD IS IN THE FLESH… LIVING BY HIS URGES! 

 

 

 

Romans 8:5 Those who are dominated by the sinful nature think about sinful things, but those who are controlled by the Holy Spirit think about things that please the Spirit. 6 So letting your sinful nature control your mind leads to death. But letting the Spirit control your mind leads to life and peace. 7 For the sinful nature is always hostile to God. It never did obey God’s laws, and it never will. 8 That’s why those who are still under the control of their sinful nature can never please God.

9 But you are not controlled by your sinful nature. You are controlled by the Spirit if you have the Spirit of God living in you. (And remember that those who do not have the Spirit of Christ living in them do not belong to him at all.)

 

 

 

 

King Saul highlights critical decisions based on fear, jealousy, and impulsivity rather than steadfast character and obedience.

 

 

1 Samuel 13:8-12 (Impatience and Panic): When the prophet Samuel delayed his arrival and the Israelite army began to scatter out of fear, Saul panicked. Instead of trusting God and waiting, his anxiety drove him to unlawfully offer the burnt offering himself.

Emotions make God's Word feel optional rather than authoritative. When feelings become the filter for truth, scripture gets reduced to "does this resonate with me" instead of "is this what God said." Jeremiah 17:9 warns that the heart is deceitful above all things — not evil in a cartoonish sense, but genuinely unreliable as a final authority. A Christian who only obeys when it feels right isn't actually submitted to Christ's lordship; they're submitted to their own emotional state, with God's Word as an occasional consultant rather than the authority.

 

Abortion, adultery, fornication, bitterness, gossip… emotions muddy up the water.

]]> The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com

Garth Heckman

INTRO: Its a strange memory at best: A young man at church - my sister Renee’s friend. HS stud athlete, great looking, always jumping in and out of bed with whomever he could. Now in his early 30’s he came to church and Renee said one night after church… he better hurry up and figure out life - his hair is getting thinner and his glasses are getting thicker. 

Funny, sad, but telling of his life falling apart. He lived his life by his emotions… his “URGES” if you will. 

 

the phrase "a piece of work" originated as a high compliment before evolving over centuries into a sarcastic insult.

The Literary Origin

Its earliest famous usage comes from William Shakespeare’s Hamlet (around 1601). In Act II, Scene 2, Prince Hamlet marvels at the creation of humanity:

"What a piece of work is a man! How noble in reason, how infinite in faculty..."

 

 

 

He’s a piece of work

ISRAELS FIRST KING! 

King Saul had it all but lost his call as a know it all only to fall. 

 

 

Saul’s ultimate downfall was not a lack of talent or opportunity; it was a fundamental flaw in his internal compass. Saul lived a life governed by feelings rather than character.

 

 

Have you ever met someone who lives by their emotions/feelings/the wind?

 

 

I used to say to my boys… “dad is in a bad mood today, so don’t push it”. WHAT I WAS REALLY SAYING WAS DAD IS IN THE FLESH… LIVING BY HIS URGES! 

 

 

 

Romans 8:5 Those who are dominated by the sinful nature think about sinful things, but those who are controlled by the Holy Spirit think about things that please the Spirit. 6 So letting your sinful nature control your mind leads to death. But letting the Spirit control your mind leads to life and peace. 7 For the sinful nature is always hostile to God. It never did obey God’s laws, and it never will. 8 That’s why those who are still under the control of their sinful nature can never please God.

9 But you are not controlled by your sinful nature. You are controlled by the Spirit if you have the Spirit of God living in you. (And remember that those who do not have the Spirit of Christ living in them do not belong to him at all.)

 

 

 

 

King Saul highlights critical decisions based on fear, jealousy, and impulsivity rather than steadfast character and obedience.

 

 

1 Samuel 13:8-12 (Impatience and Panic): When the prophet Samuel delayed his arrival and the Israelite army began to scatter out of fear, Saul panicked. Instead of trusting God and waiting, his anxiety drove him to unlawfully offer the burnt offering himself.


Emotions make God's Word feel optional rather than authoritative. When feelings become the filter for truth, scripture gets reduced to "does this resonate with me" instead of "is this what God said." Jeremiah 17:9 warns that the heart is deceitful above all things — not evil in a cartoonish sense, but genuinely unreliable as a final authority. A Christian who only obeys when it feels right isn't actually submitted to Christ's lordship; they're submitted to their own emotional state, with God's Word as an occasional consultant rather than the authority.

 

Abortion, adultery, fornication, bitterness, gossip… emotions muddy up the water.

]]> Garth Heckman false No 473 1747 full Why in the HECK would God answer your prayer? Why in the HECK would God answer your prayer? https://tda.podbean.com/e/why-in-the-heck-would-god-answer-your-prayer/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/why-in-the-heck-would-god-answer-your-prayer/#comments Thu, 20 Aug 2026 20:20:13 -0500 tda.podbean.com/a55c5a77-9a11-35a1-99e2-65c8614fa9b0 The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com

Garth Heckman

Spud Webb 5’7

In Junior high he went to try out and his coach told him to sit in the stands…. You are too short. 

Cut from his Junior year of BB and had to talk his coach into keeping him. He scored 20 points his first game. 

No Div. 1 college would even look at him. So he had to play at Midland College- lead them to a national JR league Championship, then got a scholarship to NC state. 

Every NBA scout scoffed. They said maybe he could play overseas or if he was lucky he could play with the Harlem Globetrotters.

Every NBA team passed on him multiple times…

He fell to the fifth round and was drafted by the Detroit pistons… and cut before the season ever started. 

He was “lucky” enough to be signed as an undrafted free agent by the Atlanta Hawks… At that time his star teammate Dominique Williams was the Slam dunk Champion… spud entered the contest and Dominique said he thought it was a joke and he would do layups… Spud won with numerous 360 slams, dunks off the backboard and Reverse slam dunks….

People laughed at him!

He credits his belief in knowing God gave him that talent for a reason, and that dream for a purpose. 

 

My question today is: How will you respond when people laugh at your dream?

 

 

 

Gen 18:1  And the LORD appeared to him by the oaks of Mamre, as he sat at the door of his tent in the heat of the day.

2  He lifted up his eyes and looked, and behold, three men were standing in front of him. When he saw them, he ran from the tent door to meet them and bowed himself to the earth

3  and said, “O Lord, if I have found favor in your sight, do not pass by your servant.4  Let a little water be brought, and wash your feet, and rest yourselves under the tree,5  while I bring a morsel of bread, that you may refresh yourselves, and after that you may pass on—since you have come to your servant.” So they said, “Do as you have said.”6  And Abraham went quickly into the tent to Sarah and said, “Quick! Three seahs of fine flour! Knead it, and make cakes.7  And Abraham ran to the herd and took a calf, tender and good, and gave it to a young man, who prepared it quickly.8  Then he took curds and milk and the calf that he had prepared, and set it before them. And he stood by them under the tree while they ate.9  They said to him, “Where is Sarah your wife?” And he said, “She is in the tent.”10  The LORD said, “I will surely return to you about this time next year, and Sarah your wife shall have a son.” And Sarah was listening at the tent door behind him.11  Now Abraham and Sarah were old, advanced in years. The way of women had ceased to be with Sarah.12  So Sarah laughed to herself, saying, “After I am worn out, and my lord is old, shall I have pleasure?”13  The LORD said to Abraham, “Why did Sarah laugh and say, ‘Shall I indeed bear a child, now that I am old?’14  Is anything too hard for the LORD? At the appointed time I will return to you, about this time next year, and Sarah shall have a son.”15  But Sarah denied it, saying, “I did not laugh,” for she was afraid. He said, “No, but you did laugh.”

 

 

 

 

Rather than just "inappropriate" or "disrespectful," biblical scholars and linguists often look at Sarah’s reaction in Genesis 18:12 through a few distinct lenses:

 

1. Incredulous

Incredulity captures a mix of disbelief, shock, and impossibility. Sarah was roughly 90 years old, well past childbearing age, and had dealt with a lifetime of infertility. Hearing a stranger tell Abraham she would have a baby by the following year sounded biologically absurd.

 

Abraham lives in a Spiritual and Theological worldview…

Sarah lives in a physical biological world view…

 

 

2. Sarcastic (or Cynical)

In Hebrew, Sarah’s inner monologue reads as a self-deprecating scoff: "After I am worn out and my lord is old, will I now have this pleasure?" Describing her reaction as sarcastic or cynical highlights the defense mechanism of a woman who had likely given up hope decades prior and saw the statement as a cruel taunt or bad joke.

 

3. Human

Her reaction was deeply human. It wasn't necessarily a malicious rebellion against God; it was an involuntary emotional slip—a defense mechanism triggered by years of grief, trauma, and disappointment over her barrenness.

 

  • The Nuance: Her laugh isn't scoffing insolence; it's a reflex against emotional re-traumatization. When a deep, long-buried desire is suddenly brought up by a stranger, cynicism acts as armor to protect the heart from being broken one more time.
  • The Insight: Faith doesn't require instantaneous emotional compliance. God engages directly with her reaction rather than striking her down, recognizing the pain behind her defense.

 

4. Prophetic

In the broader arc of Genesis, her laughter is viewed as prophetic or foreshadowing. The Hebrew root for laugh (tzachaq) is the exact root used for the name of the child God promises: Isaac (Yitzchak), which literally means "he laughs" or "laughter". What began as the laugh of doubt in Genesis 18 transforms into the laugh of joy and wonder when Isaac is born in Genesis 21: "God has brought me laughter, and everyone who hears about this will laugh with me".

 

Key takeaway: While her response is often labeled as "disbelief," calling it incredulous or sarcastic better captures her emotional reality, while calling it prophetic reveals the literary wordplay embedded in the text.

 

 

MAYBE OUR REACTION SHOULD MATCH *TO SOME DEGREE …SARAHS…

WHY?

WHY WOULD GOD USE ABRAHAM A MAN OF MANY FAULTS? 

 

 

Failure 1: Deception in Egypt

Age ~75 (Gen 12:10–20)

The Misstep: When a severe famine strikes Canaan, Abram migrates to Egypt without seeking divine direction. Fearing the Egyptians will kill him for his beautiful wife, he asks Sarai to lie and say she is his sister.

 

The Fallout: Pharaoh takes Sarai into his royal palace as a concubine while enriching Abram. God strikes Pharaoh’s household with severe plagues. Upon discovering the truth, Pharaoh rebukes Abram for his deceit and expels his family from Egypt.

 

 

 

Separation from Lot & Rescue

Age ~75–80 (Gen 13–14)

As their livestock herds grow too large for the land to support both of them, quarreling breaks out between Abram's and Lot's herdsmen. Abram generously gives Lot first pick WITHOUT SEEKING GOD - Lot gets captured. 

 

 

The Unconditional Covenant

Age ~85 (Gen 15)

Abram voices concern that he remains childless and his servant Eliezer will inherit his house. God reassures Abram that a biological son will be his heir and cuts a formal covenant with him, promising descendants as numerous as the stars.

 

 

 

Failure 2: Scheming with Hagar

Age 85–86 (Gen 16)

The Misstep: After living in Canaan for ten years without a child, Sarai proposes that Abram take her Egyptian servant, Hagar, as a surrogate mother. Abram agrees without seeking God's guidance, taking matters into his own hands to force the fulfillment of the promise.

 

The Fallout: Once Hagar becomes pregnant, domestic conflict erupts. Hagar despises Sarai, Sarai mistreats Hagar, and Abram washes his hands of the dispute. Hagar flees into the wilderness before an angel instructs her to return. She gives birth to Ishmael when Abram is 86.

 

 

 

The Covenant of Circumcision & Abraham's Internal Doubt

Age 99 (Gen 17)

The Moment of Disbelief: After 13 years of silence, God appears, renames Abram to Abraham ("Father of a Multitude") and Sarai to Sarah ("Princess"), and institutes circumcision as the covenant sign. When God explicitly states that Sarah herself will bear a son within a year, Abraham falls face down and laughs to himself, asking mentally: "Will a son be born to a man a hundred years old? Will Sarah bear a child at ninety?" (Gen 17:17).

 

 

The Three Visitors at Mamre & Sarah's Laugh

Age 99 (Gen 18:1–15)

Three divine visitors visit Abraham under the oaks of Mamre. The Lord repeats the divine pledge: "I will surely return to you about this time next year, and Sarah your wife will have a son."

 

Overhearing this from inside the tent entrance, Sarah laughs to herself, thinking about her advanced age and physical state. When the Lord asks why she laughed and whether anything is too hard for God, Sarah denies it out of fear, but the Lord responds: "No, you did laugh."

 

 

MAYBE SARAH IS LAUGHING KNOWING WHO HER HUSBAND REALLY IS?

 

 

 

BECAUSE EVEN AFTER THIS VISITATION FROM GOD….

 

King Abimelech (Genesis 20:1–18)

  • The Outcome: Abimelech takes Sarah into his harem. However, God appears to Abimelech in a dream, warning him that Sarah is married and that he will die if he touches her. Abimelech protests that he acted in good faith, returns Sarah untouched, gives Abraham restitution, and asks why Abraham did this.

 

 

Pattern in Abraham's Failures

Across these 24 years, Abraham's missteps shared a common theme: self-preservation and impatience.

 

 

BUT LETS ASK OURSELVES A QUESTION:

Regardless of how Sarah saw her husband Abraham - regardless of how we see him… How did God see him? 

 

 

Names and Titles Given to Abraham

 

  • Abraham ("Father of a Multitude"): Originally named Abram ("Exalted Father"), God personally renamed him in Genesis 17:5 to reflect his ultimate destiny: "No longer shall your name be called Abram, but your name shall be Abraham; for I have made you a father of many nations."
  • "My Friend": God personally refers to Abraham as His friend in Isaiah 41:8 ("Abraham My friend"), a title affirmed throughout Scripture (2 Chronicles 20:7, James 2:23).
  • Prophet: In Genesis 20:7, God speaks to King Abimelech regarding Abraham, stating, "Restore the man’s wife, for he is a prophet, and he will pray for you and you shall live."
  • "My Servant": God repeatedly refers to Abraham with honor as His servant (Genesis 26:24, Psalm 105:6), marking him as a trusted agent of the Divine will.

The Promises and Blessings Spoken Over Him

  • Divine Shield and Great Reward:
  • Infinite Descendants:
  • Royal Lineage and Multiplied Nations:
  • Universal Blessing for All Humanity:
  • Divine Protection:
  • An Everlasting Land Covenant:

 

 

SARAH MAY HAVE LAUGHED AT FIRST IN DISBELIEF - BUT

 

3. Sarah's later reversal is the untold "second half" of the story. But Genesis 21:6 gives Sarah's own commentary once Isaac is born: "God has brought me laughter, and everyone who hears about this will laugh with me." She takes the very word she used in doubt and reclaims it in worship. Isaac's name literally means "he laughs." This is a remarkable narrative arc — cynical laughter transformed into worshipful laughter — 

 

 

 

 

FINAL THOUGHT:

WHY DID GOD CHOOSE ABRAHAM? 

IN SPITE OF ALL HIS FLAWS HE PRACTICED GODS HEART AND DESIGN FOR PRAYER.

 

What do I mean?

Gen. 18 later in the chapter God tells Abraham I am going to destroy Sodom and Gomorra and Abraham does something very familiar according to Luke 11.  

 

 

Luke 11 tells us how to pray - AFTER SHARING THE LORDS PRAYER JESUS SAYS SOMETHING AWKWARD ABOUT PRAYER - A parable. 

A man goes to his friends house - he needs 3 loaves of bread… he will not give up asking. 

 

If you ask seek knock - out of sheer perseverance I will answer!

 

Abraham here in Gen. 18 does just that for Sodom and Gomorra - showing Gods heart for the lost.

50

45

40

30

20

10!

 

I believe one of the greatest clues is given in these two stories in scripture about who God uses!

 

The one that will not give up asking God to fulfill his purpose!

 

 

WHAT IF WE UNDERSTOOD THE STORY OF ABRAHAM LIKE THIS:

Yes he was a heap of missteps, failures, a massive example of weak humanity…. 

 

But in all his mistakes and failures he never quit asking God for that son! 

FOR THAT ANSWERED PRAYER. 

 

 

WILL YOU BE THE ONE WHO P.U.S.H.es into God.

P - pray

U - until

S - something

H - happens?

]]> The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com

Garth Heckman

Spud Webb 5’7

In Junior high he went to try out and his coach told him to sit in the stands…. You are too short. 

Cut from his Junior year of BB and had to talk his coach into keeping him. He scored 20 points his first game. 

No Div. 1 college would even look at him. So he had to play at Midland College- lead them to a national JR league Championship, then got a scholarship to NC state. 

Every NBA scout scoffed. They said maybe he could play overseas or if he was lucky he could play with the Harlem Globetrotters.

Every NBA team passed on him multiple times…

He fell to the fifth round and was drafted by the Detroit pistons… and cut before the season ever started. 

He was “lucky” enough to be signed as an undrafted free agent by the Atlanta Hawks… At that time his star teammate Dominique Williams was the Slam dunk Champion… spud entered the contest and Dominique said he thought it was a joke and he would do layups… Spud won with numerous 360 slams, dunks off the backboard and Reverse slam dunks….

People laughed at him!

He credits his belief in knowing God gave him that talent for a reason, and that dream for a purpose. 

 

My question today is: How will you respond when people laugh at your dream?

 

 

 

Gen 18:1  And the LORD appeared to him by the oaks of Mamre, as he sat at the door of his tent in the heat of the day.

2  He lifted up his eyes and looked, and behold, three men were standing in front of him. When he saw them, he ran from the tent door to meet them and bowed himself to the earth

3  and said, “O Lord, if I have found favor in your sight, do not pass by your servant.4  Let a little water be brought, and wash your feet, and rest yourselves under the tree,5  while I bring a morsel of bread, that you may refresh yourselves, and after that you may pass on—since you have come to your servant.” So they said, “Do as you have said.”6  And Abraham went quickly into the tent to Sarah and said, “Quick! Three seahs of fine flour! Knead it, and make cakes.7  And Abraham ran to the herd and took a calf, tender and good, and gave it to a young man, who prepared it quickly.8  Then he took curds and milk and the calf that he had prepared, and set it before them. And he stood by them under the tree while they ate.9  They said to him, “Where is Sarah your wife?” And he said, “She is in the tent.”10  The LORD said, “I will surely return to you about this time next year, and Sarah your wife shall have a son.” And Sarah was listening at the tent door behind him.11  Now Abraham and Sarah were old, advanced in years. The way of women had ceased to be with Sarah.12  So Sarah laughed to herself, saying, “After I am worn out, and my lord is old, shall I have pleasure?”13  The LORD said to Abraham, “Why did Sarah laugh and say, ‘Shall I indeed bear a child, now that I am old?’14  Is anything too hard for the LORD? At the appointed time I will return to you, about this time next year, and Sarah shall have a son.”15  But Sarah denied it, saying, “I did not laugh,” for she was afraid. He said, “No, but you did laugh.”

 

 

 

 

Rather than just "inappropriate" or "disrespectful," biblical scholars and linguists often look at Sarah’s reaction in Genesis 18:12 through a few distinct lenses:

 

1. Incredulous

Incredulity captures a mix of disbelief, shock, and impossibility. Sarah was roughly 90 years old, well past childbearing age, and had dealt with a lifetime of infertility. Hearing a stranger tell Abraham she would have a baby by the following year sounded biologically absurd.

 

Abraham lives in a Spiritual and Theological worldview…

Sarah lives in a physical biological world view…

 

 

2. Sarcastic (or Cynical)

In Hebrew, Sarah’s inner monologue reads as a self-deprecating scoff: "After I am worn out and my lord is old, will I now have this pleasure?" Describing her reaction as sarcastic or cynical highlights the defense mechanism of a woman who had likely given up hope decades prior and saw the statement as a cruel taunt or bad joke.

 

3. Human

Her reaction was deeply human. It wasn't necessarily a malicious rebellion against God; it was an involuntary emotional slip—a defense mechanism triggered by years of grief, trauma, and disappointment over her barrenness.

 

  • The Nuance: Her laugh isn't scoffing insolence; it's a reflex against emotional re-traumatization. When a deep, long-buried desire is suddenly brought up by a stranger, cynicism acts as armor to protect the heart from being broken one more time.
  • The Insight: Faith doesn't require instantaneous emotional compliance. God engages directly with her reaction rather than striking her down, recognizing the pain behind her defense.

 

4. Prophetic

In the broader arc of Genesis, her laughter is viewed as prophetic or foreshadowing. The Hebrew root for laugh (tzachaq) is the exact root used for the name of the child God promises: Isaac (Yitzchak), which literally means "he laughs" or "laughter". What began as the laugh of doubt in Genesis 18 transforms into the laugh of joy and wonder when Isaac is born in Genesis 21: "God has brought me laughter, and everyone who hears about this will laugh with me".

 

Key takeaway: While her response is often labeled as "disbelief," calling it incredulous or sarcastic better captures her emotional reality, while calling it prophetic reveals the literary wordplay embedded in the text.

 

 

MAYBE OUR REACTION SHOULD MATCH *TO SOME DEGREE …SARAHS…

WHY?

WHY WOULD GOD USE ABRAHAM A MAN OF MANY FAULTS? 

 

 

Failure 1: Deception in Egypt

Age ~75 (Gen 12:10–20)

The Misstep: When a severe famine strikes Canaan, Abram migrates to Egypt without seeking divine direction. Fearing the Egyptians will kill him for his beautiful wife, he asks Sarai to lie and say she is his sister.

 

The Fallout: Pharaoh takes Sarai into his royal palace as a concubine while enriching Abram. God strikes Pharaoh’s household with severe plagues. Upon discovering the truth, Pharaoh rebukes Abram for his deceit and expels his family from Egypt.

 

 

 

Separation from Lot & Rescue

Age ~75–80 (Gen 13–14)

As their livestock herds grow too large for the land to support both of them, quarreling breaks out between Abram's and Lot's herdsmen. Abram generously gives Lot first pick WITHOUT SEEKING GOD - Lot gets captured. 

 

 

The Unconditional Covenant

Age ~85 (Gen 15)

Abram voices concern that he remains childless and his servant Eliezer will inherit his house. God reassures Abram that a biological son will be his heir and cuts a formal covenant with him, promising descendants as numerous as the stars.

 

 

 

Failure 2: Scheming with Hagar

Age 85–86 (Gen 16)

The Misstep: After living in Canaan for ten years without a child, Sarai proposes that Abram take her Egyptian servant, Hagar, as a surrogate mother. Abram agrees without seeking God's guidance, taking matters into his own hands to force the fulfillment of the promise.

 

The Fallout: Once Hagar becomes pregnant, domestic conflict erupts. Hagar despises Sarai, Sarai mistreats Hagar, and Abram washes his hands of the dispute. Hagar flees into the wilderness before an angel instructs her to return. She gives birth to Ishmael when Abram is 86.

 

 

 

The Covenant of Circumcision & Abraham's Internal Doubt

Age 99 (Gen 17)

The Moment of Disbelief: After 13 years of silence, God appears, renames Abram to Abraham ("Father of a Multitude") and Sarai to Sarah ("Princess"), and institutes circumcision as the covenant sign. When God explicitly states that Sarah herself will bear a son within a year, Abraham falls face down and laughs to himself, asking mentally: "Will a son be born to a man a hundred years old? Will Sarah bear a child at ninety?" (Gen 17:17).

 

 

The Three Visitors at Mamre & Sarah's Laugh

Age 99 (Gen 18:1–15)

Three divine visitors visit Abraham under the oaks of Mamre. The Lord repeats the divine pledge: "I will surely return to you about this time next year, and Sarah your wife will have a son."

 

Overhearing this from inside the tent entrance, Sarah laughs to herself, thinking about her advanced age and physical state. When the Lord asks why she laughed and whether anything is too hard for God, Sarah denies it out of fear, but the Lord responds: "No, you did laugh."

 

 

MAYBE SARAH IS LAUGHING KNOWING WHO HER HUSBAND REALLY IS?

 

 

 

BECAUSE EVEN AFTER THIS VISITATION FROM GOD….

 

King Abimelech (Genesis 20:1–18)

  • The Outcome: Abimelech takes Sarah into his harem. However, God appears to Abimelech in a dream, warning him that Sarah is married and that he will die if he touches her. Abimelech protests that he acted in good faith, returns Sarah untouched, gives Abraham restitution, and asks why Abraham did this.

 

 

Pattern in Abraham's Failures

Across these 24 years, Abraham's missteps shared a common theme: self-preservation and impatience.

 

 

BUT LETS ASK OURSELVES A QUESTION:

Regardless of how Sarah saw her husband Abraham - regardless of how we see him… How did God see him? 

 

 

Names and Titles Given to Abraham

 

  • Abraham ("Father of a Multitude"): Originally named Abram ("Exalted Father"), God personally renamed him in Genesis 17:5 to reflect his ultimate destiny: "No longer shall your name be called Abram, but your name shall be Abraham; for I have made you a father of many nations."
  • "My Friend": God personally refers to Abraham as His friend in Isaiah 41:8 ("Abraham My friend"), a title affirmed throughout Scripture (2 Chronicles 20:7, James 2:23).
  • Prophet: In Genesis 20:7, God speaks to King Abimelech regarding Abraham, stating, "Restore the man’s wife, for he is a prophet, and he will pray for you and you shall live."
  • "My Servant": God repeatedly refers to Abraham with honor as His servant (Genesis 26:24, Psalm 105:6), marking him as a trusted agent of the Divine will.

The Promises and Blessings Spoken Over Him

  • Divine Shield and Great Reward:
  • Infinite Descendants:
  • Royal Lineage and Multiplied Nations:
  • Universal Blessing for All Humanity:
  • Divine Protection:
  • An Everlasting Land Covenant:

 

 

SARAH MAY HAVE LAUGHED AT FIRST IN DISBELIEF - BUT

 

3. Sarah's later reversal is the untold "second half" of the story. But Genesis 21:6 gives Sarah's own commentary once Isaac is born: "God has brought me laughter, and everyone who hears about this will laugh with me." She takes the very word she used in doubt and reclaims it in worship. Isaac's name literally means "he laughs." This is a remarkable narrative arc — cynical laughter transformed into worshipful laughter — 

 

 

 

 

FINAL THOUGHT:

WHY DID GOD CHOOSE ABRAHAM? 

IN SPITE OF ALL HIS FLAWS HE PRACTICED GODS HEART AND DESIGN FOR PRAYER.

 

What do I mean?

Gen. 18 later in the chapter God tells Abraham I am going to destroy Sodom and Gomorra and Abraham does something very familiar according to Luke 11.  

 

 

Luke 11 tells us how to pray - AFTER SHARING THE LORDS PRAYER JESUS SAYS SOMETHING AWKWARD ABOUT PRAYER - A parable. 

A man goes to his friends house - he needs 3 loaves of bread… he will not give up asking. 

 

If you ask seek knock - out of sheer perseverance I will answer!

 

Abraham here in Gen. 18 does just that for Sodom and Gomorra - showing Gods heart for the lost.

50

45

40

30

20

10!

 

I believe one of the greatest clues is given in these two stories in scripture about who God uses!

 

The one that will not give up asking God to fulfill his purpose!

 

 

WHAT IF WE UNDERSTOOD THE STORY OF ABRAHAM LIKE THIS:

Yes he was a heap of missteps, failures, a massive example of weak humanity…. 

 

But in all his mistakes and failures he never quit asking God for that son! 

FOR THAT ANSWERED PRAYER. 

 

 

WILL YOU BE THE ONE WHO P.U.S.H.es into God.

P - pray

U - until

S - something

H - happens?

]]> Garth Heckman false No 455 1746 full How did He get her? How did He get her? https://tda.podbean.com/e/how-did-he-get-her/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/how-did-he-get-her/#comments Wed, 19 Aug 2026 05:35:19 -0500 tda.podbean.com/0410bc60-d344-30f1-82e6-e1fc53bfcbbb The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com

Garth Heckman

 

Gen 18:1  And the LORD appeared to him by the oaks of Mamre, as he sat at the door of his tent in the heat of the day.

2  He lifted up his eyes and looked, and behold, three men were standing in front of him. When he saw them, he ran from the tent door to meet them and bowed himself to the earth

3  and said, “O Lord, if I have found favor in your sight, do not pass by your servant.4  Let a little water be brought, and wash your feet, and rest yourselves under the tree,5  while I bring a morsel of bread, that you may refresh yourselves, and after that you may pass on—since you have come to your servant.” So they said, “Do as you have said.”6  And Abraham went quickly into the tent to Sarah and said, “Quick! Three seahs of fine flour! Knead it, and make cakes.7  And Abraham ran to the herd and took a calf, tender and good, and gave it to a young man, who prepared it quickly.8  Then he took curds and milk and the calf that he had prepared, and set it before them. And he stood by them under the tree while they ate.9  They said to him, “Where is Sarah your wife?” And he said, “She is in the tent.”10  The LORD said, “I will surely return to you about this time next year, and Sarah your wife shall have a son.” And Sarah was listening at the tent door behind him.11  Now Abraham and Sarah were old, advanced in years. The way of women had ceased to be with Sarah.12  So Sarah laughed to herself, saying, “After I am worn out, and my lord is old, shall I have pleasure?”13  The LORD said to Abraham, “Why did Sarah laugh and say, ‘Shall I indeed bear a child, now that I am old?’14  Is anything too hard for the LORD? At the appointed time I will return to you, about this time next year, and Sarah shall have a son.”15  But Sarah denied it, saying, “I did not laugh,” for she was afraid. He said, “No, but you did laugh.”

 

 

 

 

Rather than just "inappropriate" or "disrespectful," biblical scholars and linguists often look at Sarah’s reaction in Genesis 18:12 through a few distinct lenses:

 

1. Incredulous

Incredulity captures a mix of disbelief, shock, and impossibility. Sarah was roughly 90 years old, well past childbearing age, and had dealt with a lifetime of infertility. Hearing a stranger tell Abraham she would have a baby by the following year sounded biologically absurd.

 

Abraham lives in a Spiritual and Theological worldview…

Sarah lives in a physical biological world view…

 

 

2. Sarcastic (or Cynical)

In Hebrew, Sarah’s inner monologue reads as a self-deprecating scoff: "After I am worn out and my lord is old, will I now have this pleasure?" Describing her reaction as sarcastic or cynical highlights the defense mechanism of a woman who had likely given up hope decades prior and saw the statement as a cruel taunt or bad joke.

 

3. Human

Her reaction was deeply human. It wasn't necessarily a malicious rebellion against God; it was an involuntary emotional slip—a defense mechanism triggered by years of grief, trauma, and disappointment over her barrenness.

 

  • The Nuance: Her laugh isn't scoffing insolence; it's a reflex against emotional re-traumatization. When a deep, long-buried desire is suddenly brought up by a stranger, cynicism acts as armor to protect the heart from being broken one more time.
  • The Insight: Faith doesn't require instantaneous emotional compliance. God engages directly with her reaction rather than striking her down, recognizing the pain behind her defense.

 

4. Prophetic

In the broader arc of Genesis, her laughter is viewed as prophetic or foreshadowing. The Hebrew root for laugh (tzachaq) is the exact root used for the name of the child God promises: Isaac (Yitzchak), which literally means "he laughs" or "laughter". What began as the laugh of doubt in Genesis 18 transforms into the laugh of joy and wonder when Isaac is born in Genesis 21: "God has brought me laughter, and everyone who hears about this will laugh with me".

 

Key takeaway: While her response is often labeled as "disbelief," calling it incredulous or sarcastic better captures her emotional reality, while calling it prophetic reveals the literary wordplay embedded in the text.

 

 

MAYBE OUR REACTION SHOULD MATCH *TO SOME DEGREE …SARAHS…

WHY?

WHY WOULD GOD USE ABRAHAM A MAN OF MANY FAULTS? 

 

 

Failure 1: Deception in Egypt

Age ~75 (Gen 12:10–20)

The Misstep: When a severe famine strikes Canaan, Abram migrates to Egypt without seeking divine direction. Fearing the Egyptians will kill him for his beautiful wife, he asks Sarai to lie and say she is his sister.

 

The Fallout: Pharaoh takes Sarai into his royal palace as a concubine while enriching Abram. God strikes Pharaoh’s household with severe plagues. Upon discovering the truth, Pharaoh rebukes Abram for his deceit and expels his family from Egypt.

 

 

 

Separation from Lot & Rescue

Age ~75–80 (Gen 13–14)

As their livestock herds grow too large for the land to support both of them, quarreling breaks out between Abram's and Lot's herdsmen. Abram generously gives Lot first pick WITHOUT SEEKING GOD - Lot gets captured. 

 

 

The Unconditional Covenant

Age ~85 (Gen 15)

Abram voices concern that he remains childless and his servant Eliezer will inherit his house. God reassures Abram that a biological son will be his heir and cuts a formal covenant with him, promising descendants as numerous as the stars.

 

 

 

Failure 2: Scheming with Hagar

Age 85–86 (Gen 16)

The Misstep: After living in Canaan for ten years without a child, Sarai proposes that Abram take her Egyptian servant, Hagar, as a surrogate mother. Abram agrees without seeking God's guidance, taking matters into his own hands to force the fulfillment of the promise.

 

The Fallout: Once Hagar becomes pregnant, domestic conflict erupts. Hagar despises Sarai, Sarai mistreats Hagar, and Abram washes his hands of the dispute. Hagar flees into the wilderness before an angel instructs her to return. She gives birth to Ishmael when Abram is 86.

 

 

 

The Covenant of Circumcision & Abraham's Internal Doubt

Age 99 (Gen 17)

The Moment of Disbelief: After 13 years of silence, God appears, renames Abram to Abraham ("Father of a Multitude") and Sarai to Sarah ("Princess"), and institutes circumcision as the covenant sign. When God explicitly states that Sarah herself will bear a son within a year, Abraham falls face down and laughs to himself, asking mentally: "Will a son be born to a man a hundred years old? Will Sarah bear a child at ninety?" (Gen 17:17).

 

 

The Three Visitors at Mamre & Sarah's Laugh

Age 99 (Gen 18:1–15)

Three divine visitors visit Abraham under the oaks of Mamre. The Lord repeats the divine pledge: "I will surely return to you about this time next year, and Sarah your wife will have a son."

 

Overhearing this from inside the tent entrance, Sarah laughs to herself, thinking about her advanced age and physical state. When the Lord asks why she laughed and whether anything is too hard for God, Sarah denies it out of fear, but the Lord responds: "No, you did laugh."

 

 

MAYBE SARAH IS LAUGHING KNOWING WHO HER HUSBAND REALLY IS?

 

 

 

BECAUSE EVEN AFTER THIS VISITATION FROM GOD….

 

King Abimelech (Genesis 20:1–18)

  • The Outcome: Abimelech takes Sarah into his harem. However, God appears to Abimelech in a dream, warning him that Sarah is married and that he will die if he touches her. Abimelech protests that he acted in good faith, returns Sarah untouched, gives Abraham restitution, and asks why Abraham did this.

 

 

Pattern in Abraham's Failures

Across these 24 years, Abraham's missteps shared a common theme: self-preservation and impatience.

 

 

BUT LETS ASK OURSELVES A QUESTION:

Regardless of how Sarah saw her husband Abraham - regardless of how we see him… How did God see him? 

]]> The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com

Garth Heckman

 

Gen 18:1  And the LORD appeared to him by the oaks of Mamre, as he sat at the door of his tent in the heat of the day.

2  He lifted up his eyes and looked, and behold, three men were standing in front of him. When he saw them, he ran from the tent door to meet them and bowed himself to the earth

3  and said, “O Lord, if I have found favor in your sight, do not pass by your servant.4  Let a little water be brought, and wash your feet, and rest yourselves under the tree,5  while I bring a morsel of bread, that you may refresh yourselves, and after that you may pass on—since you have come to your servant.” So they said, “Do as you have said.”6  And Abraham went quickly into the tent to Sarah and said, “Quick! Three seahs of fine flour! Knead it, and make cakes.7  And Abraham ran to the herd and took a calf, tender and good, and gave it to a young man, who prepared it quickly.8  Then he took curds and milk and the calf that he had prepared, and set it before them. And he stood by them under the tree while they ate.9  They said to him, “Where is Sarah your wife?” And he said, “She is in the tent.”10  The LORD said, “I will surely return to you about this time next year, and Sarah your wife shall have a son.” And Sarah was listening at the tent door behind him.11  Now Abraham and Sarah were old, advanced in years. The way of women had ceased to be with Sarah.12  So Sarah laughed to herself, saying, “After I am worn out, and my lord is old, shall I have pleasure?”13  The LORD said to Abraham, “Why did Sarah laugh and say, ‘Shall I indeed bear a child, now that I am old?’14  Is anything too hard for the LORD? At the appointed time I will return to you, about this time next year, and Sarah shall have a son.”15  But Sarah denied it, saying, “I did not laugh,” for she was afraid. He said, “No, but you did laugh.”

 

 

 

 

Rather than just "inappropriate" or "disrespectful," biblical scholars and linguists often look at Sarah’s reaction in Genesis 18:12 through a few distinct lenses:

 

1. Incredulous

Incredulity captures a mix of disbelief, shock, and impossibility. Sarah was roughly 90 years old, well past childbearing age, and had dealt with a lifetime of infertility. Hearing a stranger tell Abraham she would have a baby by the following year sounded biologically absurd.

 

Abraham lives in a Spiritual and Theological worldview…

Sarah lives in a physical biological world view…

 

 

2. Sarcastic (or Cynical)

In Hebrew, Sarah’s inner monologue reads as a self-deprecating scoff: "After I am worn out and my lord is old, will I now have this pleasure?" Describing her reaction as sarcastic or cynical highlights the defense mechanism of a woman who had likely given up hope decades prior and saw the statement as a cruel taunt or bad joke.

 

3. Human

Her reaction was deeply human. It wasn't necessarily a malicious rebellion against God; it was an involuntary emotional slip—a defense mechanism triggered by years of grief, trauma, and disappointment over her barrenness.

 

  • The Nuance: Her laugh isn't scoffing insolence; it's a reflex against emotional re-traumatization. When a deep, long-buried desire is suddenly brought up by a stranger, cynicism acts as armor to protect the heart from being broken one more time.
  • The Insight: Faith doesn't require instantaneous emotional compliance. God engages directly with her reaction rather than striking her down, recognizing the pain behind her defense.

 

4. Prophetic

In the broader arc of Genesis, her laughter is viewed as prophetic or foreshadowing. The Hebrew root for laugh (tzachaq) is the exact root used for the name of the child God promises: Isaac (Yitzchak), which literally means "he laughs" or "laughter". What began as the laugh of doubt in Genesis 18 transforms into the laugh of joy and wonder when Isaac is born in Genesis 21: "God has brought me laughter, and everyone who hears about this will laugh with me".

 

Key takeaway: While her response is often labeled as "disbelief," calling it incredulous or sarcastic better captures her emotional reality, while calling it prophetic reveals the literary wordplay embedded in the text.

 

 

MAYBE OUR REACTION SHOULD MATCH *TO SOME DEGREE …SARAHS…

WHY?

WHY WOULD GOD USE ABRAHAM A MAN OF MANY FAULTS? 

 

 

Failure 1: Deception in Egypt

Age ~75 (Gen 12:10–20)

The Misstep: When a severe famine strikes Canaan, Abram migrates to Egypt without seeking divine direction. Fearing the Egyptians will kill him for his beautiful wife, he asks Sarai to lie and say she is his sister.

 

The Fallout: Pharaoh takes Sarai into his royal palace as a concubine while enriching Abram. God strikes Pharaoh’s household with severe plagues. Upon discovering the truth, Pharaoh rebukes Abram for his deceit and expels his family from Egypt.

 

 

 

Separation from Lot & Rescue

Age ~75–80 (Gen 13–14)

As their livestock herds grow too large for the land to support both of them, quarreling breaks out between Abram's and Lot's herdsmen. Abram generously gives Lot first pick WITHOUT SEEKING GOD - Lot gets captured. 

 

 

The Unconditional Covenant

Age ~85 (Gen 15)

Abram voices concern that he remains childless and his servant Eliezer will inherit his house. God reassures Abram that a biological son will be his heir and cuts a formal covenant with him, promising descendants as numerous as the stars.

 

 

 

Failure 2: Scheming with Hagar

Age 85–86 (Gen 16)

The Misstep: After living in Canaan for ten years without a child, Sarai proposes that Abram take her Egyptian servant, Hagar, as a surrogate mother. Abram agrees without seeking God's guidance, taking matters into his own hands to force the fulfillment of the promise.

 

The Fallout: Once Hagar becomes pregnant, domestic conflict erupts. Hagar despises Sarai, Sarai mistreats Hagar, and Abram washes his hands of the dispute. Hagar flees into the wilderness before an angel instructs her to return. She gives birth to Ishmael when Abram is 86.

 

 

 

The Covenant of Circumcision & Abraham's Internal Doubt

Age 99 (Gen 17)

The Moment of Disbelief: After 13 years of silence, God appears, renames Abram to Abraham ("Father of a Multitude") and Sarai to Sarah ("Princess"), and institutes circumcision as the covenant sign. When God explicitly states that Sarah herself will bear a son within a year, Abraham falls face down and laughs to himself, asking mentally: "Will a son be born to a man a hundred years old? Will Sarah bear a child at ninety?" (Gen 17:17).

 

 

The Three Visitors at Mamre & Sarah's Laugh

Age 99 (Gen 18:1–15)

Three divine visitors visit Abraham under the oaks of Mamre. The Lord repeats the divine pledge: "I will surely return to you about this time next year, and Sarah your wife will have a son."

 

Overhearing this from inside the tent entrance, Sarah laughs to herself, thinking about her advanced age and physical state. When the Lord asks why she laughed and whether anything is too hard for God, Sarah denies it out of fear, but the Lord responds: "No, you did laugh."

 

 

MAYBE SARAH IS LAUGHING KNOWING WHO HER HUSBAND REALLY IS?

 

 

 

BECAUSE EVEN AFTER THIS VISITATION FROM GOD….

 

King Abimelech (Genesis 20:1–18)

  • The Outcome: Abimelech takes Sarah into his harem. However, God appears to Abimelech in a dream, warning him that Sarah is married and that he will die if he touches her. Abimelech protests that he acted in good faith, returns Sarah untouched, gives Abraham restitution, and asks why Abraham did this.

 

 

Pattern in Abraham's Failures

Across these 24 years, Abraham's missteps shared a common theme: self-preservation and impatience.

 

 

BUT LETS ASK OURSELVES A QUESTION:

Regardless of how Sarah saw her husband Abraham - regardless of how we see him… How did God see him? 

]]> Garth Heckman false No 463 1745 full Now that hurt! Now that hurt! https://tda.podbean.com/e/now-that-hurt/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/now-that-hurt/#comments Mon, 17 Aug 2026 19:17:06 -0500 tda.podbean.com/3862a222-9e56-37c7-b5dd-332e954a3ba4 The David Alliance 

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com

Garth Heckman

Gen 18:1  And the LORD appeared to him by the oaks of Mamre, as he sat at the door of his tent in the heat of the day.

2  He lifted up his eyes and looked, and behold, three men were standing in front of him. When he saw them, he ran from the tent door to meet them and bowed himself to the earth

3  and said, “O Lord, if I have found favor in your sight, do not pass by your servant.4  Let a little water be brought, and wash your feet, and rest yourselves under the tree,5  while I bring a morsel of bread, that you may refresh yourselves, and after that you may pass on—since you have come to your servant.” So they said, “Do as you have said.”6  And Abraham went quickly into the tent to Sarah and said, “Quick! Three seahs of fine flour! Knead it, and make cakes.7  And Abraham ran to the herd and took a calf, tender and good, and gave it to a young man, who prepared it quickly.8  Then he took curds and milk and the calf that he had prepared, and set it before them. And he stood by them under the tree while they ate.9  They said to him, “Where is Sarah your wife?” And he said, “She is in the tent.”10  The LORD said, “I will surely return to you about this time next year, and Sarah your wife shall have a son.” And Sarah was listening at the tent door behind him.11  Now Abraham and Sarah were old, advanced in years. The way of women had ceased to be with Sarah.12  So Sarah laughed to herself, saying, “After I am worn out, and my lord is old, shall I have pleasure?”13  The LORD said to Abraham, “Why did Sarah laugh and say, ‘Shall I indeed bear a child, now that I am old?’14  Is anything too hard for the LORD? At the appointed time I will return to you, about this time next year, and Sarah shall have a son.”15  But Sarah denied it, saying, “I did not laugh,” for she was afraid. He said, “No, but you did laugh.”

 

 

 

 

Rather than just "inappropriate" or "disrespectful," biblical scholars and linguists often look at Sarah’s reaction in Genesis 18:12 through a few distinct lenses:

 

1. Incredulous

Incredulity captures a mix of disbelief, shock, and impossibility. Sarah was roughly 90 years old, well past childbearing age, and had dealt with a lifetime of infertility. Hearing a stranger tell Abraham she would have a baby by the following year sounded biologically absurd.

 

Abraham lives in a Spiritual and Theological worldview…

Sarah lives in a physical biological world view…

 

 

2. Sarcastic (or Cynical)

In Hebrew, Sarah’s inner monologue reads as a self-deprecating scoff: "After I am worn out and my lord is old, will I now have this pleasure?" Describing her reaction as sarcastic or cynical highlights the defense mechanism of a woman who had likely given up hope decades prior and saw the statement as a cruel taunt or bad joke.

 

3. Human

Her reaction was deeply human. It wasn't necessarily a malicious rebellion against God; it was an involuntary emotional slip—a defense mechanism triggered by years of grief, trauma, and disappointment over her barrenness.

 

  • The Nuance: Her laugh isn't scoffing insolence; it's a reflex against emotional re-traumatization. When a deep, long-buried desire is suddenly brought up by a stranger, cynicism acts as armor to protect the heart from being broken one more time.
  • The Insight: Faith doesn't require instantaneous emotional compliance. God engages directly with her reaction rather than striking her down, recognizing the pain behind her defense.

 

4. Prophetic

In the broader arc of Genesis, her laughter is viewed as prophetic or foreshadowing. The Hebrew root for laugh (tzachaq) is the exact root used for the name of the child God promises: Isaac (Yitzchak), which literally means "he laughs" or "laughter". What began as the laugh of doubt in Genesis 18 transforms into the laugh of joy and wonder when Isaac is born in Genesis 21: "God has brought me laughter, and everyone who hears about this will laugh with me".

 

Key takeaway: While her response is often labeled as "disbelief," calling it incredulous or sarcastic better captures her emotional reality, while calling it prophetic reveals the literary wordplay embedded in the text.

]]> The David Alliance 

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com

Garth Heckman

Gen 18:1  And the LORD appeared to him by the oaks of Mamre, as he sat at the door of his tent in the heat of the day.

2  He lifted up his eyes and looked, and behold, three men were standing in front of him. When he saw them, he ran from the tent door to meet them and bowed himself to the earth

3  and said, “O Lord, if I have found favor in your sight, do not pass by your servant.4  Let a little water be brought, and wash your feet, and rest yourselves under the tree,5  while I bring a morsel of bread, that you may refresh yourselves, and after that you may pass on—since you have come to your servant.” So they said, “Do as you have said.”6  And Abraham went quickly into the tent to Sarah and said, “Quick! Three seahs of fine flour! Knead it, and make cakes.7  And Abraham ran to the herd and took a calf, tender and good, and gave it to a young man, who prepared it quickly.8  Then he took curds and milk and the calf that he had prepared, and set it before them. And he stood by them under the tree while they ate.9  They said to him, “Where is Sarah your wife?” And he said, “She is in the tent.”10  The LORD said, “I will surely return to you about this time next year, and Sarah your wife shall have a son.” And Sarah was listening at the tent door behind him.11  Now Abraham and Sarah were old, advanced in years. The way of women had ceased to be with Sarah.12  So Sarah laughed to herself, saying, “After I am worn out, and my lord is old, shall I have pleasure?”13  The LORD said to Abraham, “Why did Sarah laugh and say, ‘Shall I indeed bear a child, now that I am old?’14  Is anything too hard for the LORD? At the appointed time I will return to you, about this time next year, and Sarah shall have a son.”15  But Sarah denied it, saying, “I did not laugh,” for she was afraid. He said, “No, but you did laugh.”

 

 

 

 

Rather than just "inappropriate" or "disrespectful," biblical scholars and linguists often look at Sarah’s reaction in Genesis 18:12 through a few distinct lenses:

 

1. Incredulous

Incredulity captures a mix of disbelief, shock, and impossibility. Sarah was roughly 90 years old, well past childbearing age, and had dealt with a lifetime of infertility. Hearing a stranger tell Abraham she would have a baby by the following year sounded biologically absurd.

 

Abraham lives in a Spiritual and Theological worldview…

Sarah lives in a physical biological world view…

 

 

2. Sarcastic (or Cynical)

In Hebrew, Sarah’s inner monologue reads as a self-deprecating scoff: "After I am worn out and my lord is old, will I now have this pleasure?" Describing her reaction as sarcastic or cynical highlights the defense mechanism of a woman who had likely given up hope decades prior and saw the statement as a cruel taunt or bad joke.

 

3. Human

Her reaction was deeply human. It wasn't necessarily a malicious rebellion against God; it was an involuntary emotional slip—a defense mechanism triggered by years of grief, trauma, and disappointment over her barrenness.

 

  • The Nuance: Her laugh isn't scoffing insolence; it's a reflex against emotional re-traumatization. When a deep, long-buried desire is suddenly brought up by a stranger, cynicism acts as armor to protect the heart from being broken one more time.
  • The Insight: Faith doesn't require instantaneous emotional compliance. God engages directly with her reaction rather than striking her down, recognizing the pain behind her defense.

 

4. Prophetic

In the broader arc of Genesis, her laughter is viewed as prophetic or foreshadowing. The Hebrew root for laugh (tzachaq) is the exact root used for the name of the child God promises: Isaac (Yitzchak), which literally means "he laughs" or "laughter". What began as the laugh of doubt in Genesis 18 transforms into the laugh of joy and wonder when Isaac is born in Genesis 21: "God has brought me laughter, and everyone who hears about this will laugh with me".

 

Key takeaway: While her response is often labeled as "disbelief," calling it incredulous or sarcastic better captures her emotional reality, while calling it prophetic reveals the literary wordplay embedded in the text.

]]> Garth Heckman false No 477 1744 full Pregnant at 100? Don't laugh... Pregnant at 100? Don't laugh... https://tda.podbean.com/e/pregnant-at-100-dont-laugh/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/pregnant-at-100-dont-laugh/#comments Sun, 16 Aug 2026 17:13:42 -0500 tda.podbean.com/da47fb20-638d-3095-9a09-1db876599ac6 The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com 

Garth Heckman

Spud Webb 5’7

In Junior high he went to try out and his coach told him to sit in the stands…. You are too short. 

Cut from his Junior year of BB and had to talk his coach into keeping him. He scored 20 points his first game. 

No Div. 1 college would even look at him. So he had to play at Midland College- lead them to a national JR league Championship, then got a scholarship to NC state. 

Every NBA scout scoffed. They said maybe he could play overseas or if he was lucky he could play with the Harlem Globetrotters.

Every NBA team passed on him multiple times…

He fell to the fifth round and was drafted by the Detroit pistons… and cut before the season ever started. 

He was “lucky” enough to be signed as an undrafted free agent by the Atlanta Hawks… At that time his star teammate Dominique Williams was the Slam dunk Champion… spud entered the contest and Dominique said he thought it was a joke and he would do layups… Spud won with numerous 360 slams, dunks off the backboard and Reverse slam dunks….

People laughed at him!

He credits his belief in knowing God gave him that talent for a reason, and that dream for a purpose. 

 

My question today is: How will you respond when people laugh at your dream?

 

 

 

Gen 18:1  And the LORD appeared to him by the oaks of Mamre, as he sat at the door of his tent in the heat of the day.

2  He lifted up his eyes and looked, and behold, three men were standing in front of him. When he saw them, he ran from the tent door to meet them and bowed himself to the earth

3  and said, “O Lord, if I have found favor in your sight, do not pass by your servant.4  Let a little water be brought, and wash your feet, and rest yourselves under the tree,5  while I bring a morsel of bread, that you may refresh yourselves, and after that you may pass on—since you have come to your servant.” So they said, “Do as you have said.”6  And Abraham went quickly into the tent to Sarah and said, “Quick! Three seahs of fine flour! Knead it, and make cakes.7  And Abraham ran to the herd and took a calf, tender and good, and gave it to a young man, who prepared it quickly.8  Then he took curds and milk and the calf that he had prepared, and set it before them. And he stood by them under the tree while they ate.9  They said to him, “Where is Sarah your wife?” And he said, “She is in the tent.”10  The LORD said, “I will surely return to you about this time next year, and Sarah your wife shall have a son.” And Sarah was listening at the tent door behind him.11  Now Abraham and Sarah were old, advanced in years. The way of women had ceased to be with Sarah.12  So Sarah laughed to herself, saying, “After I am worn out, and my lord is old, shall I have pleasure?”13  The LORD said to Abraham, “Why did Sarah laugh and say, ‘Shall I indeed bear a child, now that I am old?’14  Is anything too hard for the LORD? At the appointed time I will return to you, about this time next year, and Sarah shall have a son.”15  But Sarah denied it, saying, “I did not laugh,” for she was afraid. He said, “No, but you did laugh.”

 

 

]]> The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com 

Garth Heckman

Spud Webb 5’7

In Junior high he went to try out and his coach told him to sit in the stands…. You are too short. 

Cut from his Junior year of BB and had to talk his coach into keeping him. He scored 20 points his first game. 

No Div. 1 college would even look at him. So he had to play at Midland College- lead them to a national JR league Championship, then got a scholarship to NC state. 

Every NBA scout scoffed. They said maybe he could play overseas or if he was lucky he could play with the Harlem Globetrotters.

Every NBA team passed on him multiple times…

He fell to the fifth round and was drafted by the Detroit pistons… and cut before the season ever started. 

He was “lucky” enough to be signed as an undrafted free agent by the Atlanta Hawks… At that time his star teammate Dominique Williams was the Slam dunk Champion… spud entered the contest and Dominique said he thought it was a joke and he would do layups… Spud won with numerous 360 slams, dunks off the backboard and Reverse slam dunks….

People laughed at him!

He credits his belief in knowing God gave him that talent for a reason, and that dream for a purpose. 

 

My question today is: How will you respond when people laugh at your dream?

 

 

 

Gen 18:1  And the LORD appeared to him by the oaks of Mamre, as he sat at the door of his tent in the heat of the day.

2  He lifted up his eyes and looked, and behold, three men were standing in front of him. When he saw them, he ran from the tent door to meet them and bowed himself to the earth

3  and said, “O Lord, if I have found favor in your sight, do not pass by your servant.4  Let a little water be brought, and wash your feet, and rest yourselves under the tree,5  while I bring a morsel of bread, that you may refresh yourselves, and after that you may pass on—since you have come to your servant.” So they said, “Do as you have said.”6  And Abraham went quickly into the tent to Sarah and said, “Quick! Three seahs of fine flour! Knead it, and make cakes.7  And Abraham ran to the herd and took a calf, tender and good, and gave it to a young man, who prepared it quickly.8  Then he took curds and milk and the calf that he had prepared, and set it before them. And he stood by them under the tree while they ate.9  They said to him, “Where is Sarah your wife?” And he said, “She is in the tent.”10  The LORD said, “I will surely return to you about this time next year, and Sarah your wife shall have a son.” And Sarah was listening at the tent door behind him.11  Now Abraham and Sarah were old, advanced in years. The way of women had ceased to be with Sarah.12  So Sarah laughed to herself, saying, “After I am worn out, and my lord is old, shall I have pleasure?”13  The LORD said to Abraham, “Why did Sarah laugh and say, ‘Shall I indeed bear a child, now that I am old?’14  Is anything too hard for the LORD? At the appointed time I will return to you, about this time next year, and Sarah shall have a son.”15  But Sarah denied it, saying, “I did not laugh,” for she was afraid. He said, “No, but you did laugh.”

 

 

]]> Garth Heckman false No 464 1743 full Just walk it off? AYFKM? Just walk it off? AYFKM? https://tda.podbean.com/e/just-walk-it-off-ayfkm/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/just-walk-it-off-ayfkm/#comments Thu, 13 Aug 2026 20:05:13 -0500 tda.podbean.com/a569e86d-fb2b-3f5a-a919-76c87ffaf39e The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com 

Garth Heckman

 

Joy is best served with friends. Go to an amusement park with no one??? Why? 

 

Isolation kills joy

 

 

Your joy affects others

 

Are you the one who people love to see walk into a room?

 

The joy experienced by Paul and Silas freed the other prisoners. 

 

 

Joy preceded their deliverance

 

They did not rejoice because they were free - they rejoiced and that is what freed them! 

 

 

James 1:2 Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. 3 For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. 4 So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing.

 

Consider" — ἡγέομαι (hēgeomai) think, regard, or deliberately account something as true through a mental, reasoned process — it's actually the root behind Judgement 

 

he's calling for a conscious, deliberate act of the mind:

“BOY I WONDER HOW THIS WILL TURN OUT” said with joy! 

 

 

PURE "Pure" / "All" — πᾶσαν (pasan) This word (from pas, "all") is often translated "pure" but more literally means all, entire, or complete

Experienced as joy in every area of your life. 

 

 

Trial - peirasmos ("trials") not random or meaningless suffering, but hardship with a purpose and a goal built into it.

 

 

The verb "consider" (hēgēsasthe) is in the aorist imperative — a decisive, one-time-decision kind of command in Greek grammar, - “it will always turn out for the good” 

 

 

 

Why This Matters for Your Whole Joy Series

This gives you a clean, important corrective point for the sermon: James is not commanding an emotion — he's commanding a decision about how to interpret what's happening.

 

 

Joy Our Lord finds our desires not too strong, but too weak. We are half-hearted creatures, fooling about with drink and sex and ambition, when infinite joy is offered to us, like an ignorant child who wants to go on making mud pies in the slum because he cannot imagine what is meant by the offer of a holiday at the sea. We are far too easily pleased.

C.S. Lewis.

  -  Might I add to this: We spend our time foolishly running after happiness… when Joy is right in front of us. 

 

 

 

Nehemiah 8:10 — "the joy of the Lord is your strength." This is a foundational verse for teaching on this topic because it reverses the usual order people expect: joy isn't the result of strength or good circumstances — it's the source of strength to face hard circumstances.

 

 

1 Peter 1:6-8 — Peter writes to believers facing real suffering and trials, describing a joy that is "inexpressible and filled with glory" specifically in the middle of grief, not after it resolves. The Greek word here for "inexpressible" (aneklalētos) means literally beyond the capacity of words — joy so deep it can't be articulated.

 

 

The Theological Throughline Worth Preaching

 

Every one of these passages makes the same structural claim: biblical joy is not the absence of pain — its the understanding that God will use it for your good. 

]]> The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com 

Garth Heckman

 

Joy is best served with friends. Go to an amusement park with no one??? Why? 

 

Isolation kills joy

 

 

Your joy affects others

 

Are you the one who people love to see walk into a room?

 

The joy experienced by Paul and Silas freed the other prisoners. 

 

 

Joy preceded their deliverance

 

They did not rejoice because they were free - they rejoiced and that is what freed them! 

 

 

James 1:2 Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. 3 For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. 4 So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing.

 

Consider" — ἡγέομαι (hēgeomai) think, regard, or deliberately account something as true through a mental, reasoned process — it's actually the root behind Judgement 

 

he's calling for a conscious, deliberate act of the mind:

“BOY I WONDER HOW THIS WILL TURN OUT” said with joy! 

 

 

PURE "Pure" / "All" — πᾶσαν (pasan) This word (from pas, "all") is often translated "pure" but more literally means all, entire, or complete

Experienced as joy in every area of your life. 

 

 

Trial - peirasmos ("trials") not random or meaningless suffering, but hardship with a purpose and a goal built into it.

 

 

The verb "consider" (hēgēsasthe) is in the aorist imperative — a decisive, one-time-decision kind of command in Greek grammar, - “it will always turn out for the good” 

 

 

 

Why This Matters for Your Whole Joy Series

This gives you a clean, important corrective point for the sermon: James is not commanding an emotion — he's commanding a decision about how to interpret what's happening.

 

 

Joy

Our Lord finds our desires not too strong, but too weak. We are half-hearted creatures, fooling about with drink and sex and ambition, when infinite joy is offered to us, like an ignorant child who wants to go on making mud pies in the slum because he cannot imagine what is meant by the offer of a holiday at the sea. We are far too easily pleased.

C.S. Lewis.

  -  Might I add to this: We spend our time foolishly running after happiness… when Joy is right in front of us. 

 

 

 

Nehemiah 8:10 — "the joy of the Lord is your strength." This is a foundational verse for teaching on this topic because it reverses the usual order people expect: joy isn't the result of strength or good circumstances — it's the source of strength to face hard circumstances.

 

 

1 Peter 1:6-8 — Peter writes to believers facing real suffering and trials, describing a joy that is "inexpressible and filled with glory" specifically in the middle of grief, not after it resolves. The Greek word here for "inexpressible" (aneklalētos) means literally beyond the capacity of words — joy so deep it can't be articulated.

 

 

The Theological Throughline Worth Preaching

 

Every one of these passages makes the same structural claim: biblical joy is not the absence of pain — its the understanding that God will use it for your good. 

]]> Garth Heckman false No 459 1742 full When you walk into a room....? When you walk into a room....? https://tda.podbean.com/e/when-you-walk-into-a-room/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/when-you-walk-into-a-room/#comments Wed, 12 Aug 2026 20:40:17 -0500 tda.podbean.com/07666dae-0a08-3a3e-af4e-f59067939a02 The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com 

Garth Heckman

Joy Unshakeable 

 

Acts 16 Paul and Silas

 

Read story and highlight:

Military city, 

MOB RULES:did not want to hear what they had to say… the crowd was blind with rage… they should not have been beaten until trial as Roman citizens. 

 

*Joy starts with focus not feelings.

 

Happiness depends on what happens… so you have to do the work to make good things happen. *YOU BECOME A SLAVE TO PERFORMING, AND CIRCUMSTANCES. 

 

 

Falsely accused (Emotionally abused),

Beaten (Physically abused in public to humiliate) 

Locked away from everyone in the deepest part of the dungeon… Most likely where the raw sewage flowed. (Socially abused)

Chained (Mentally abused and in stocks)

Archaeological evidence from sites like the gladiator barracks at Pompeii - torture racks. 

**AND AT MIDNIGHT:

Why Midnight Singing Is Even More Remarkable Than It First Appears

 

Put the whole picture together: Paul and Silas had been publicly stripped, beaten with rods by state lictors, thrown into the inner prison (the most secure, likely darkest and most miserable section), and their legs forced into a device specifically designed to maximize ongoing physical suffering. And at midnight — the point of deepest exhaustion and vulnerability — "they were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them" (v. 25).

 

THESE WERE NOT QUIET MURMURINGS - The Greek word for "singing hymns" here is hymneō — the same root behind our English "hymn" — meaning they weren't just murmuring quiet comfort to themselves; they were audibly, deliberately worshiping, loud enough that the entire prison population was listening.

 

 

**Look at all that is HAPPENING to them. Happiness is based on what Happens. It is called “happenstance”. 

 

 But Spiritually they still knew where they stood. They still experienced joy. 

 

*Joy starts with focus not feelings.

 

Happiness depends on what happens… so you have to do the work to make good things happen. *YOU BECOME A SLAVE TO PERFORMING, AND CIRCUMSTANCES. 

 

Vs. joy which focuses on the outcome not the current circumstances.

 

 

Joy is best served with friends. Go to an amusement park with no one??? Why? 

 

Isolation kills joy

 

 

Your joy affects others

 

Are you the one who people love to see walk into a room?

 

The joy experienced by Paul and Silas freed the other prisoners. 

 

 

Joy preceded their deliverance

 

They did not rejoice because they were free - they rejoiced and that is what freed them! 

]]> The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com 

Garth Heckman

Joy Unshakeable 

 

Acts 16 Paul and Silas

 

Read story and highlight:

Military city, 

MOB RULES:did not want to hear what they had to say… the crowd was blind with rage… they should not have been beaten until trial as Roman citizens. 

 

*Joy starts with focus not feelings.

 

Happiness depends on what happens… so you have to do the work to make good things happen. *YOU BECOME A SLAVE TO PERFORMING, AND CIRCUMSTANCES. 

 

 

Falsely accused (Emotionally abused),

Beaten (Physically abused in public to humiliate) 

Locked away from everyone in the deepest part of the dungeon… Most likely where the raw sewage flowed. (Socially abused)

Chained (Mentally abused and in stocks)

Archaeological evidence from sites like the gladiator barracks at Pompeii - torture racks. 

**AND AT MIDNIGHT:

Why Midnight Singing Is Even More Remarkable Than It First Appears

 

Put the whole picture together: Paul and Silas had been publicly stripped, beaten with rods by state lictors, thrown into the inner prison (the most secure, likely darkest and most miserable section), and their legs forced into a device specifically designed to maximize ongoing physical suffering. And at midnight — the point of deepest exhaustion and vulnerability — "they were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them" (v. 25).

 

THESE WERE NOT QUIET MURMURINGS - The Greek word for "singing hymns" here is hymneō — the same root behind our English "hymn" — meaning they weren't just murmuring quiet comfort to themselves; they were audibly, deliberately worshiping, loud enough that the entire prison population was listening.

 

 

**Look at all that is HAPPENING to them. Happiness is based on what Happens. It is called “happenstance”. 

 

 But Spiritually they still knew where they stood. They still experienced joy. 

 

*Joy starts with focus not feelings.

 

Happiness depends on what happens… so you have to do the work to make good things happen. *YOU BECOME A SLAVE TO PERFORMING, AND CIRCUMSTANCES. 

 

Vs. joy which focuses on the outcome not the current circumstances.

 

 

Joy is best served with friends. Go to an amusement park with no one??? Why? 

 

Isolation kills joy

 

 

Your joy affects others

 

Are you the one who people love to see walk into a room?

 

The joy experienced by Paul and Silas freed the other prisoners. 

 

 

Joy preceded their deliverance

 

They did not rejoice because they were free - they rejoiced and that is what freed them! 

]]> Garth Heckman false No 465 1741 full Focus NOT Feelings brings Joy! Focus NOT Feelings brings Joy! https://tda.podbean.com/e/focus-not-feelings-brings-joy/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/focus-not-feelings-brings-joy/#comments Tue, 11 Aug 2026 17:36:02 -0500 tda.podbean.com/bb3a7cf7-b0ee-3e95-808d-0057a54440f1 The David Alliance 

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com 

Garth Heckman 

*Joy starts with focus not feelings.

Happiness depends on what happens… so you have to do the work to make good things happen. *YOU BECOME A SLAVE TO PERFORMING, AND CIRCUMSTANCES. 

 

 

Falsely accused (Emotionally abused),

Beaten (Physically abused in public to humiliate) 

Locked away from everyone in the deepest part of the dungeon… Most likely where the raw sewage flowed. (Socially abused)

Chained (Mentally abused and in stocks)

Archaeological evidence from sites like the gladiator barracks at Pompeii - torture racks. 

**AND AT MIDNIGHT:

Why Midnight Singing Is Even More Remarkable Than It First Appears

 

Put the whole picture together: Paul and Silas had been publicly stripped, beaten with rods by state lictors, thrown into the inner prison (the most secure, likely darkest and most miserable section), and their legs forced into a device specifically designed to maximize ongoing physical suffering. And at midnight — the point of deepest exhaustion and vulnerability — "they were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them" (v. 25).

 

THESE WERE NOT QUIET MURMURINGS - The Greek word for "singing hymns" here is hymneō — the same root behind our English "hymn" — meaning they weren't just murmuring quiet comfort to themselves; they were audibly, deliberately worshiping, loud enough that the entire prison population was listening.

 

 

**Look at all that is HAPPENING to them. Happiness is based on what Happens. It is called “happenstance”. 

 But Spiritually they still knew where they stood. They still experienced joy. 

*Joy starts with focus not feelings.

Happiness depends on what happens… so you have to do the work to make good things happen. *YOU BECOME A SLAVE TO PERFORMING, AND CIRCUMSTANCES. 

Vs. joy which focuses on the outcome not the current circumstances.

 

Joy is best served with friends. Go to an amusement park with no one??? Why? 

 

Isolation kills joy

]]> The David Alliance 

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com 

Garth Heckman 

*Joy starts with focus not feelings.

Happiness depends on what happens… so you have to do the work to make good things happen. *YOU BECOME A SLAVE TO PERFORMING, AND CIRCUMSTANCES. 

 

 

Falsely accused (Emotionally abused),

Beaten (Physically abused in public to humiliate) 

Locked away from everyone in the deepest part of the dungeon… Most likely where the raw sewage flowed. (Socially abused)

Chained (Mentally abused and in stocks)

Archaeological evidence from sites like the gladiator barracks at Pompeii - torture racks. 

**AND AT MIDNIGHT:

Why Midnight Singing Is Even More Remarkable Than It First Appears

 

Put the whole picture together: Paul and Silas had been publicly stripped, beaten with rods by state lictors, thrown into the inner prison (the most secure, likely darkest and most miserable section), and their legs forced into a device specifically designed to maximize ongoing physical suffering. And at midnight — the point of deepest exhaustion and vulnerability — "they were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them" (v. 25).

 

THESE WERE NOT QUIET MURMURINGS - The Greek word for "singing hymns" here is hymneō — the same root behind our English "hymn" — meaning they weren't just murmuring quiet comfort to themselves; they were audibly, deliberately worshiping, loud enough that the entire prison population was listening.

 

 

**Look at all that is HAPPENING to them. Happiness is based on what Happens. It is called “happenstance”. 

 But Spiritually they still knew where they stood. They still experienced joy. 

*Joy starts with focus not feelings.

Happiness depends on what happens… so you have to do the work to make good things happen. *YOU BECOME A SLAVE TO PERFORMING, AND CIRCUMSTANCES. 

Vs. joy which focuses on the outcome not the current circumstances.

 

Joy is best served with friends. Go to an amusement park with no one??? Why? 

 

Isolation kills joy

]]> Garth Heckman false No 463 1740 full Poop, beaten, tortured and singing... WTFU? Poop, beaten, tortured and singing... WTFU? https://tda.podbean.com/e/poop-beaten-tortured-and-singing-wtfu/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/poop-beaten-tortured-and-singing-wtfu/#comments Mon, 10 Aug 2026 14:13:15 -0500 tda.podbean.com/f99a150e-5d4f-3b26-b0fb-a3ed535d1ed6 The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com

Garth Heckman

Military city, 

MOB RULES:did not want to hear what they had to say… the crowd was blind with rage… they should not have been beaten until trial as Roman citizens. 

 

*Joy starts with focus not feelings.

 

Happiness depends on what happens… so you have to do the work to make good things happen. *YOU BECOME A SLAVE TO PERFORMING, AND CIRCUMSTANCES. 

 

 

Falsely accused (Emotionally abused),

Beaten (Physically abused in public to humiliate) 

Locked away from everyone in the deepest part of the dungeon… Most likely where the raw sewage flowed. (Socially abused)

Chained (Mentally abused and in stocks)

Archaeological evidence from sites like the gladiator barracks at Pompeii - torture racks. 

**AND AT MIDNIGHT:

Why Midnight Singing Is Even More Remarkable Than It First Appears

 

Put the whole picture together: Paul and Silas had been publicly stripped, beaten with rods by state lictors, thrown into the inner prison (the most secure, likely darkest and most miserable section), and their legs forced into a device specifically designed to maximize ongoing physical suffering. And at midnight — the point of deepest exhaustion and vulnerability — "they were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them" (v. 25).

]]> The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com

Garth Heckman

Military city, 

MOB RULES:did not want to hear what they had to say… the crowd was blind with rage… they should not have been beaten until trial as Roman citizens. 

 

*Joy starts with focus not feelings.

 

Happiness depends on what happens… so you have to do the work to make good things happen. *YOU BECOME A SLAVE TO PERFORMING, AND CIRCUMSTANCES. 

 

 

Falsely accused (Emotionally abused),

Beaten (Physically abused in public to humiliate) 

Locked away from everyone in the deepest part of the dungeon… Most likely where the raw sewage flowed. (Socially abused)

Chained (Mentally abused and in stocks)

Archaeological evidence from sites like the gladiator barracks at Pompeii - torture racks. 

**AND AT MIDNIGHT:

Why Midnight Singing Is Even More Remarkable Than It First Appears

 

Put the whole picture together: Paul and Silas had been publicly stripped, beaten with rods by state lictors, thrown into the inner prison (the most secure, likely darkest and most miserable section), and their legs forced into a device specifically designed to maximize ongoing physical suffering. And at midnight — the point of deepest exhaustion and vulnerability — "they were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them" (v. 25).

]]> Garth Heckman false No 471 1739 full Inadequate? Perfect, you'll do! Inadequate? Perfect, you'll do! https://tda.podbean.com/e/inadequate-perfect-youll-do/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/inadequate-perfect-youll-do/#comments Fri, 07 Aug 2026 05:47:23 -0500 tda.podbean.com/ad94cd10-ea37-391d-882b-67bb09b3a458 The David Alliance

TDAgiantslayer@gmail.com

Garth Heckman

The story of Moses is one of the most honest depictions of human insecurity in ancient literature. Despite leading a nation out of slavery and receiving the Ten Commandments, Moses spent much of his life convinced he was the wrong person for the job.

 

His story offers powerful insights into how inadequacy works, how purpose unfolds, and what it actually means to lead.

 

Key Lessons from Moses’ Insecurity

 

  1. Inadequacy Is Often a Skill Issue Overestimated, and a Calling Underestimated

 

When you overestimate the skill needed in comparison to the calling underestimated you will never feel adequate. 

 

When God called Moses at the burning bush in Exodus 3, Moses immediately pushed back with five distinct excuses:

 

  • "Who am I?" (Identity/Worthiness)

Im seen as an enemy to many as I grew up under Pharaoh and in his house.

I am seen as a murderer

I am seen as a person who ran away

 

Past Failures do not disqualify you from your future mission.

 

  • "What shall I say?" (Lack of Knowledge)

 

 

  • "What if they don't believe me?" (Fear of Rejection)

 

 

  • "I am slow of speech and tongue." (Perceived Physical Limitations)

 

 

  • "Please send someone else." (Pure Resistance)

 

 

Thoughts: 

Moses focused entirely on his own inventory of skills, while God was focused on His own capacity. 

 

 

The lesson is that calling rarely demands pre-existing perfection; it demands willingness. 

   **You might say “why not me God” - He most times will answer… you said No.

 

Your perceived disqualifications are often just the baseline from which growth happens.

 

 

 

The Lesson: Growth doesn't eliminate feelings of overwhelm—

Feeling inadequate at a new level of responsibility isn't a sign that you failed; it's a sign that you're operating outside your comfort zone, which is where real impact occurs.

 

3. Isolation Amplifies Insecurity; Community Relieves It

When Moses felt isolated he was given Aaron

When overwhelmed he was given Jethro 

 

 

5. You Can Finish Well Without Seeing the Final Result

MOSES SAW THE PROMISE LAND - BUT WAS NOT ALLOWED TO ENTER IT. 

 

You might just be the great set up for someone else’s future mission. 

 

 

Do you want to feel adequate - or more than enough?

To feel more than enough: 

Learn something new in Christ every day. 

Test God out in new situations every day.

Focus on the end game.

Remember who you are is who you attract, so become like Christ and attract people like Jesus into it.

]]> The David Alliance

TDAgiantslayer@gmail.com

Garth Heckman

The story of Moses is one of the most honest depictions of human insecurity in ancient literature. Despite leading a nation out of slavery and receiving the Ten Commandments, Moses spent much of his life convinced he was the wrong person for the job.

 

His story offers powerful insights into how inadequacy works, how purpose unfolds, and what it actually means to lead.

 

Key Lessons from Moses’ Insecurity

 

  1. Inadequacy Is Often a Skill Issue Overestimated, and a Calling Underestimated

 

When you overestimate the skill needed in comparison to the calling underestimated you will never feel adequate. 

 

When God called Moses at the burning bush in Exodus 3, Moses immediately pushed back with five distinct excuses:

 

  • "Who am I?" (Identity/Worthiness)

Im seen as an enemy to many as I grew up under Pharaoh and in his house.

I am seen as a murderer

I am seen as a person who ran away

 

Past Failures do not disqualify you from your future mission.

 

  • "What shall I say?" (Lack of Knowledge)

 

 

  • "What if they don't believe me?" (Fear of Rejection)

 

 

  • "I am slow of speech and tongue." (Perceived Physical Limitations)

 

 

  • "Please send someone else." (Pure Resistance)

 

 

Thoughts: 

Moses focused entirely on his own inventory of skills, while God was focused on His own capacity. 

 

 

The lesson is that calling rarely demands pre-existing perfection; it demands willingness. 

   **You might say “why not me God” - He most times will answer… you said No.

 

Your perceived disqualifications are often just the baseline from which growth happens.

 

 

 

The Lesson: Growth doesn't eliminate feelings of overwhelm—

Feeling inadequate at a new level of responsibility isn't a sign that you failed; it's a sign that you're operating outside your comfort zone, which is where real impact occurs.

 

3. Isolation Amplifies Insecurity; Community Relieves It

When Moses felt isolated he was given Aaron

When overwhelmed he was given Jethro 

 

 

5. You Can Finish Well Without Seeing the Final Result

MOSES SAW THE PROMISE LAND - BUT WAS NOT ALLOWED TO ENTER IT. 

 

You might just be the great set up for someone else’s future mission. 

 

 

Do you want to feel adequate - or more than enough?

To feel more than enough: 

Learn something new in Christ every day. 

Test God out in new situations every day.

Focus on the end game.

Remember who you are is who you attract, so become like Christ and attract people like Jesus into it.

]]> Garth Heckman false No 474 1738 full Is Christianity a crutch? NOPE its a hospital. Is Christianity a crutch? NOPE its a hospital. https://tda.podbean.com/e/is-christianity-a-crutch-nope-its-a-hospital/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/is-christianity-a-crutch-nope-its-a-hospital/#comments Wed, 05 Aug 2026 17:05:42 -0500 tda.podbean.com/46ec9f3b-8756-318a-ae71-d26c9c25d13b The David Alliance 

TDAgiantSlayer@gmail.com

Garth Heckman

*****If you don’t have control over your thoughts, then you don’t have control over your feelingsDr Richard Bander founder of NLP

 

 

2. His Grace Overcomes Your Weakness

When you feel inadequate, scripture teaches that your insufficiency is actually the canvas for God's power. Paul asked God to take away a deep struggle, but God answered:

 

"My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness."

— 2 Corinthians 12:9

 

"there's a well-known story, often told about…" Ignacy Jan Paderewski — the famous Polish concert pianist. A little boy who just started taking piano lessons is taken to his concert by his mother… he sneaks up on stage and begins to play chopsticks… the crowd aghast - But Paderewski sneaks up behind him and says keep playing and then weaves a beautiful song behind it. 

 

THE INSIGHT - YOU GOTTA BE WILLING TO GET UP AND PLAY.

]]> The David Alliance 

TDAgiantSlayer@gmail.com

Garth Heckman

*****If you don’t have control over your thoughts, then you don’t have control over your feelingsDr Richard Bander founder of NLP

 

 

2. His Grace Overcomes Your Weakness

When you feel inadequate, scripture teaches that your insufficiency is actually the canvas for God's power. Paul asked God to take away a deep struggle, but God answered:

 

"My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness."

— 2 Corinthians 12:9

 

"there's a well-known story, often told about…" Ignacy Jan Paderewski — the famous Polish concert pianist. A little boy who just started taking piano lessons is taken to his concert by his mother… he sneaks up on stage and begins to play chopsticks… the crowd aghast - But Paderewski sneaks up behind him and says keep playing and then weaves a beautiful song behind it. 

 

THE INSIGHT - YOU GOTTA BE WILLING TO GET UP AND PLAY.

]]> Garth Heckman false No 462 1737 full YOU will NEVER be enough! YOU will NEVER be enough! https://tda.podbean.com/e/you-will-never-be-enough/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/you-will-never-be-enough/#comments Tue, 04 Aug 2026 17:53:22 -0500 tda.podbean.com/243eb299-a478-3f4b-92aa-b08559ae8fd6 The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@gmail.com

Garth Heckman

It is easy to feel inadequate when we measure ourselves by our own strengths, skills, lifestyle or limitations. The Bible directly tackles this feeling by shifting the focus from our own sufficiency to Christ’s completeness in us.

 

Scripture never promises that we will be enough on our own, but it repeatedly promises that Christ in us makes us more than enough.

 

The Bible expresses this truth across four primary themes:

 

1. You Are "More Than Conquerors"

"No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us."

— Romans 8:37

 

The Greek word used here is hupernikaō, which literally translates to “super-overcomers"

 

We win in the end… Heaven, eternity with God.

 

 

THE ELEPHANT IN THE ROOM

**You might secretly think - yeah but I want to be superabundant NOW - 

There is nothing wrong with that… but also realize it does not make you happy. REFRIGERATOR BOX

 

 

  • 2 Peter 1:3 — God's divine power has granted us everything required for life and godliness.

3 His divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness. 4 Through these he has given us his very great and precious promises, so that through them you may participate in the divine nature, having escaped the corruption in the world caused by evil desires.

From epithumeo; a longing (especially for what is forbidden) -- concupiscence, desire, lust (after).

epithymía (from 1909 /epí, "focused on" and 2372 /thymós, "passionate desire") – properly, passion built on strong feelings (urges). These can be positive or negative, depending on whether the desire is inspired by faith (God's inbirthed persuasion)

 

*****If you don’t have control over your thoughts, then you don’t have control over your feelingsDr Richard Bander founder of NLP

]]> The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@gmail.com

Garth Heckman

It is easy to feel inadequate when we measure ourselves by our own strengths, skills, lifestyle or limitations. The Bible directly tackles this feeling by shifting the focus from our own sufficiency to Christ’s completeness in us.

 

Scripture never promises that we will be enough on our own, but it repeatedly promises that Christ in us makes us more than enough.

 

The Bible expresses this truth across four primary themes:

 

1. You Are "More Than Conquerors"

"No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us."

— Romans 8:37

 

The Greek word used here is hupernikaō, which literally translates to “super-overcomers"

 

We win in the end… Heaven, eternity with God.

 

 

THE ELEPHANT IN THE ROOM

**You might secretly think - yeah but I want to be superabundant NOW - 

There is nothing wrong with that… but also realize it does not make you happy. REFRIGERATOR BOX

 

 

  • 2 Peter 1:3 — God's divine power has granted us everything required for life and godliness.

3 His divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness. 4 Through these he has given us his very great and precious promises, so that through them you may participate in the divine nature, having escaped the corruption in the world caused by evil desires.

From epithumeo; a longing (especially for what is forbidden) -- concupiscence, desire, lust (after).

epithymía (from 1909 /epí, "focused on" and 2372 /thymós, "passionate desire") – properly, passion built on strong feelings (urges). These can be positive or negative, depending on whether the desire is inspired by faith (God's inbirthed persuasion)

 

*****If you don’t have control over your thoughts, then you don’t have control over your feelingsDr Richard Bander founder of NLP

]]> Garth Heckman false No 465 1736 full Choking on seeds! Choking on seeds! https://tda.podbean.com/e/choking-on-seeds/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/choking-on-seeds/#comments Mon, 03 Aug 2026 14:50:51 -0500 tda.podbean.com/95f3a2f0-9d14-39e8-bfc8-2c2c057ca60f The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com

Garth Heckman

Facebook - Faceblah

Instagram - InstaSHAM actual filters that show reality

TikTok - Ticked off 

 

INTERESTING INSIGHT TO THE SEEDS PARABLE:

Luke 8:14 The cares of the world choke out Gods seed and you quickly no longer believe 

 

Cares GK - Mer-im-nah  what the world holds as important. 

Choke GK Soom-pnee-go  choked off by having the wrong identifications… 

Imagine straining your neck looking at everything the world has in front of you… you strain your neck so twisted you choke yourself to death. 

 

A woman had an epiphany standing in her 4.5 million dollar home… IT’S JUST A REFRIGERATOR BOX.

HERE IS THE TRUE INSIGHT - WHEN WE FEEL LIKE WE DON’T HAVE ENOUGH (TO COMPLETE US), THEN WE TELL OURSELVES “WE ARE NOT ENOUGH” - WE FEEL LIKE WE ARE ILL EQUIPPED TO DO WHAT GOD HAS CALLED US TO DO. 

 

It is easy to feel inadequate when we measure ourselves by our own strengths, skills, lifestyle or limitations. The Bible directly tackles this feeling by shifting the focus from our own sufficiency to Christ’s completeness in us.

]]> The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com

Garth Heckman

Facebook - Faceblah

Instagram - InstaSHAM actual filters that show reality

TikTok - Ticked off 

 

INTERESTING INSIGHT TO THE SEEDS PARABLE:

Luke 8:14 The cares of the world choke out Gods seed and you quickly no longer believe 

 

Cares GK - Mer-im-nah  what the world holds as important. 

Choke GK Soom-pnee-go  choked off by having the wrong identifications… 

Imagine straining your neck looking at everything the world has in front of you… you strain your neck so twisted you choke yourself to death. 

 

A woman had an epiphany standing in her 4.5 million dollar home… IT’S JUST A REFRIGERATOR BOX.

HERE IS THE TRUE INSIGHT - WHEN WE FEEL LIKE WE DON’T HAVE ENOUGH (TO COMPLETE US), THEN WE TELL OURSELVES “WE ARE NOT ENOUGH” - WE FEEL LIKE WE ARE ILL EQUIPPED TO DO WHAT GOD HAS CALLED US TO DO. 

 

It is easy to feel inadequate when we measure ourselves by our own strengths, skills, lifestyle or limitations. The Bible directly tackles this feeling by shifting the focus from our own sufficiency to Christ’s completeness in us.

]]> Garth Heckman false No 473 1735 full Hate Yourself - 5 easy steps! Hate Yourself - 5 easy steps! https://tda.podbean.com/e/hate-yourself-5-easy-steps/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/hate-yourself-5-easy-steps/#comments Sun, 02 Aug 2026 19:05:36 -0500 tda.podbean.com/ef7692e1-0712-31df-a9ce-8c09dd4be05a The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@gmail.com 

Garth Heckman

Excess 

 

On a scale of 1-10 regarding your abilities… 

Do you have enough of what it takes to live a fulfilling life?

10 being the perfect life

1 being a complete and utter debacle.

BUT HERE IS THE REAL TEST… WHAT WAS YOUR SCALE YOU JUDGED YOURSELF BY? 

 

You are more than enough - you have excess in your abilities. 

 

THE PROBLEM? 

In a culture fueled by highlight reels, endless scrolling, and the quiet fear that everyone else has life figured out, feeling "not enough" is practically the modern default.

 

How to never feel like you are enough!

 - 1 Constantly compare yourself to other people's highlight reels

 - 2 Base your entire worth on external validation

 - 3 Chase perfectionism, especially online

 - 4 Isolate yourself with your struggles

 - 5 Let one bad moment define your whole identity

]]> The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@gmail.com 

Garth Heckman

Excess 

 

On a scale of 1-10 regarding your abilities… 

Do you have enough of what it takes to live a fulfilling life?

10 being the perfect life

1 being a complete and utter debacle.

BUT HERE IS THE REAL TEST… WHAT WAS YOUR SCALE YOU JUDGED YOURSELF BY? 

 

You are more than enough - you have excess in your abilities. 

 

THE PROBLEM? 

In a culture fueled by highlight reels, endless scrolling, and the quiet fear that everyone else has life figured out, feeling "not enough" is practically the modern default.

 

How to never feel like you are enough!

 - 1 Constantly compare yourself to other people's highlight reels

 - 2 Base your entire worth on external validation

 - 3 Chase perfectionism, especially online

 - 4 Isolate yourself with your struggles

 - 5 Let one bad moment define your whole identity

]]> Garth Heckman false No 472 1734 full Pain... The Greatest Teacher EVER! Pain... The Greatest Teacher EVER! https://tda.podbean.com/e/pain-the-greatest-teacher-ever/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/pain-the-greatest-teacher-ever/#comments Thu, 30 Jul 2026 19:48:08 -0500 tda.podbean.com/6a718a36-0d20-3638-bc03-835d38566a90 The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com

Garth Heckman

 

Point 4: 

Pain Trains, It Doesn't Just Test

Greek: γυμνάζω (gymnazo) — Hebrews 12:11: "no discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness for those who have been trained (gymnazo) by it." 

 

Samuel 30 - David has been on the run for 14 years from King Saul… now they get sent packing from the Philistines… “not good enough”.

They get back to camp and all of their wives, children, goods, food everything was taken by the Amakelites. 

His men have had it… they want to stone him.

V. 6 But David found strength in the LORD

THIS IS DAVID IN TRAINING - 

HE found strength

 

And he wrote Psalm 13

Psalm 13:

1 O Lord, how long will you forget me? Forever? How long will you look the other way?

2 How long must I struggle with anguish in my soul, with sorrow in my heart every day? How long will my enemy have the upper hand?

3 Turn and answer me, O Lord my God! Restore the sparkle to my eyes, or I will die.

4 Don’t let my enemies gloat, saying, “We have defeated him!” Don’t let them rejoice at my downfall.

5 But I trust in your unfailing love. I will rejoice because you have rescued me.

6 I will sing to the Lord because he is good to me

 

This verse is from David in the midst of his final crushing painful experience running from Saul…

 

He is ready to give up… his life. Literally… I’ll just let them kill me! 

 

But he goes to God… seeks his guidance. - what should I learn from this pain…

They go and kill the Amalekites and not only get everything back but more….

 

HERE IS THE POINT HE WAS ONLY MONTHS AWAY FROM BEING KING!  

 

What is around your corner of pain?

]]> The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com

Garth Heckman

 

Point 4: 

Pain Trains, It Doesn't Just Test

Greek: γυμνάζω (gymnazo) — Hebrews 12:11: "no discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness for those who have been trained (gymnazo) by it." 

 

Samuel 30 - David has been on the run for 14 years from King Saul… now they get sent packing from the Philistines… “not good enough”.

They get back to camp and all of their wives, children, goods, food everything was taken by the Amakelites. 

His men have had it… they want to stone him.

V. 6 But David found strength in the LORD

THIS IS DAVID IN TRAINING - 

HE found strength

 

And he wrote Psalm 13

Psalm 13:

1 O Lord, how long will you forget me? Forever?
How long will you look the other way?

2 How long must I struggle with anguish in my soul, with sorrow in my heart every day?
How long will my enemy have the upper hand?

3 Turn and answer me, O Lord my God!
Restore the sparkle to my eyes, or I will die.

4 Don’t let my enemies gloat, saying, “We have defeated him!”
Don’t let them rejoice at my downfall.

5 But I trust in your unfailing love.
I will rejoice because you have rescued me.

6 I will sing to the Lord
because he is good to me

 

This verse is from David in the midst of his final crushing painful experience running from Saul…

 

He is ready to give up… his life. Literally… I’ll just let them kill me! 

 

But he goes to God… seeks his guidance. - what should I learn from this pain…

They go and kill the Amalekites and not only get everything back but more….

 

HERE IS THE POINT HE WAS ONLY MONTHS AWAY FROM BEING KING!  

 

What is around your corner of pain?

]]> Garth Heckman false No 460 1733 full Pain is the Dream Pain is the Dream https://tda.podbean.com/e/pain-is-the-dream/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/pain-is-the-dream/#comments Wed, 29 Jul 2026 18:04:02 -0500 tda.podbean.com/bc84f1b0-dfde-3304-a453-d750d00ba9ff The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com

Garth Heckman

Point 4: 

You get a candle as a gift… you could care less until the electricity goes out and you need it… its a seemingly useless gift until you realize it’s not… it gives you light… the lights actually go on!

 

That’s pain… it seems useless until it allows the lights to go on. 

 

God Redeems Pain He Didn't Cause

Greek: πάθημα (pathema) — general word for suffering (Romans 8:18, 2 Corinthians 1:5) — often used for suffering that simply happens to someone, not suffering they chose.

 

But God will use it for his Glory in and through us. 

 

Joseph 

Joseph was 

Last - youngest

Loathed - hated by his brothers

Lied about - Dad he was eaten by a lion

Labored as a slave

Lured - by Bathsheba 

Libeled - accused by Bathsheba 

Labeled - still just a prisoner 

Lost - Lost in the system 

Lapsed -  forgotten by the Butler in prison

Left -  left for dead… until Pharaoh had a dream

LIVING - LIVING THE DREAM - LITERALLY!   

 

THE JOSEPH PRINCIPLE — "You meant evil against me, but God meant it for good" (Genesis 50:20).

 

 

METHOD MAN

WHEN SOMEONE SAYS TO YOU “IM GONNA BRING THE PAIN” - laugh and say “yeah, and I can’t wait to see what God does with it!” 

]]> The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com

Garth Heckman

Point 4: 

You get a candle as a gift… you could care less until the electricity goes out and you need it… its a seemingly useless gift until you realize it’s not… it gives you light… the lights actually go on!

 

That’s pain… it seems useless until it allows the lights to go on. 

 

God Redeems Pain He Didn't Cause

Greek: πάθημα (pathema) — general word for suffering (Romans 8:18, 2 Corinthians 1:5) — often used for suffering that simply happens to someone, not suffering they chose.

 

But God will use it for his Glory in and through us. 

 

Joseph 

Joseph was 

Last - youngest

Loathed - hated by his brothers

Lied about - Dad he was eaten by a lion

Labored as a slave

Lured - by Bathsheba 

Libeled - accused by Bathsheba 

Labeled - still just a prisoner 

Lost - Lost in the system 

Lapsed -  forgotten by the Butler in prison

Left -  left for dead… until Pharaoh had a dream

LIVING - LIVING THE DREAM - LITERALLY!   

 

THE JOSEPH PRINCIPLE — "You meant evil against me, but God meant it for good" (Genesis 50:20).

 

 

METHOD MAN

WHEN SOMEONE SAYS TO YOU “IM GONNA BRING THE PAIN” - laugh and say “yeah, and I can’t wait to see what God does with it!” 

]]> Garth Heckman false No 462 1732 full Can God Trust you with Pain? Can God Trust you with Pain? https://tda.podbean.com/e/can-god-trust-you-with-pain/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/can-god-trust-you-with-pain/#comments Tue, 28 Jul 2026 20:16:33 -0500 tda.podbean.com/0a018197-3590-3d57-9aba-6eff6d1e2f83 The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com

Garth Heckman

PAIN REVEALS WHAT IS INSIDE US!

 

When you are attacked,

Embarrassed

Mistreated

Diseased

Falsely accused

Persecuted

Afflicted

THIS IS HEAT TO SEE WHAT YOU ARE MADE OF… IT IS THE ONLY THING THAT CAN PROVE YOU! 

 

 

There is a well known story… that is probably more myth than fact but proves a great point. The greeks would carve out statues… if they cracked or chipped they would cover them up with marble dust and wax… the problem was when it got to hot the wax would melt and you might end up with a grotesque looking statue….

how many people have been in that situation. They looked great until the heat came… and then.  Ugly! 

 

 

 

Point 3: 

Pain Builds What Only Struggle Can Build

Greek: ὑπομονή (hupomone) — not passive waiting, but active endurance — literally "remaining under." It's the word for a marathon runner in the middle miles, not the person sitting quietly in a waiting room.

 

You choose to go through the pain.

 -  Abraham is told to sacrifice Isaac. He gets up early in the morning to do this. Are you willing to get up early for pain? 

  -  Can God trust you with pain? 

 

God may call you to do something and you know it will cost you pain.

 

  -  Can God trust you with pain?

]]> The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com

Garth Heckman

PAIN REVEALS WHAT IS INSIDE US!

 

When you are attacked,

Embarrassed

Mistreated

Diseased

Falsely accused

Persecuted

Afflicted

THIS IS HEAT TO SEE WHAT YOU ARE MADE OF… IT IS THE ONLY THING THAT CAN PROVE YOU! 

 

 

There is a well known story… that is probably more myth than fact but proves a great point. The greeks would carve out statues… if they cracked or chipped they would cover them up with marble dust and wax… the problem was when it got to hot the wax would melt and you might end up with a grotesque looking statue….

how many people have been in that situation. They looked great until the heat came… and then.  Ugly! 

 

 

 

Point 3: 

Pain Builds What Only Struggle Can Build

Greek: ὑπομονή (hupomone) — not passive waiting, but active endurance — literally "remaining under." It's the word for a marathon runner in the middle miles, not the person sitting quietly in a waiting room.

 

You choose to go through the pain.

 -  Abraham is told to sacrifice Isaac. He gets up early in the morning to do this. Are you willing to get up early for pain? 

  -  Can God trust you with pain? 

 

God may call you to do something and you know it will cost you pain.

 

  -  Can God trust you with pain?

]]> Garth Heckman false No 463 1731 full What is the Greatest thing you have ever spoken? What is the Greatest thing you have ever spoken? https://tda.podbean.com/e/what-is-the-greatest-thing-you-have-ever-spoken/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/what-is-the-greatest-thing-you-have-ever-spoken/#comments Mon, 27 Jul 2026 17:06:36 -0500 tda.podbean.com/bd18c7e5-6f44-3aa0-83d2-537841e3c549 The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com

Garth Heckman

 

SHAD SHACK BENNY 

You may not understand the pressure… but you can trust God to use it to produce something amazing.

THE GREATEST STATEMENT OF FAITH UNDER PRESSURE WAS DAN. 3:18 - 

Oh King our God can save us… but even if He doesn’t we will not bow… TO THE PAIN

 

Point 2

Pain Proves What's Genuine

Greek: δοκίμιον (dokimion) — James 1:3 says "the testing (dokimion) of your faith produces perseverance." The word comes from the world of metalworking: when a shopkeeper "proofs" gold, he's establishing whether it's genuine — not creating value, but revealing value already present, or exposing what was fake.

 

Illustration: Stradivarius violins are prized in part because of the dense, slow-growth wood used to build them — wood that grew during an unusually cold, harsh period in Italian and Bavarian Alps. Trees that struggled through decades of brutal winters produced tighter growth rings and denser wood, which is part of why those violins carry a tone modern instruments still can't replicate. The hardship in the wood's history is literally inside the sound.

THE SOUND THE VIOLIN MAKES PROVES THAT IT HAS BEEN THROUGH THE PRESSURE AND STRESS!

When you are looking for a true friend, mentor, marriage partner etc… ask them what pain have you been through? What did you learn… and if it is about the situation, or the person who caused it… be careful. BUT IF THEY TELL YOU WHAT THEY LEARNED ABOUT THEMSELVES… THAT MEANS THE PAIN WAS GOOD FOR THEM. 

]]> The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com

Garth Heckman

 

SHAD SHACK BENNY 

You may not understand the pressure… but you can trust God to use it to produce something amazing.

THE GREATEST STATEMENT OF FAITH UNDER PRESSURE WAS DAN. 3:18 - 

Oh King our God can save us… but even if He doesn’t we will not bow… TO THE PAIN

 

Point 2

Pain Proves What's Genuine

Greek: δοκίμιον (dokimion) — James 1:3 says "the testing (dokimion) of your faith produces perseverance." The word comes from the world of metalworking: when a shopkeeper "proofs" gold, he's establishing whether it's genuine — not creating value, but revealing value already present, or exposing what was fake.

 

Illustration: Stradivarius violins are prized in part because of the dense, slow-growth wood used to build them — wood that grew during an unusually cold, harsh period in Italian and Bavarian Alps. Trees that struggled through decades of brutal winters produced tighter growth rings and denser wood, which is part of why those violins carry a tone modern instruments still can't replicate. The hardship in the wood's history is literally inside the sound.

THE SOUND THE VIOLIN MAKES PROVES THAT IT HAS BEEN THROUGH THE PRESSURE AND STRESS!

When you are looking for a true friend, mentor, marriage partner etc… ask them what pain have you been through? What did you learn… and if it is about the situation, or the person who caused it… be careful. BUT IF THEY TELL YOU WHAT THEY LEARNED ABOUT THEMSELVES… THAT MEANS THE PAIN WAS GOOD FOR THEM. 

]]> Garth Heckman false No 470 1730 full Diamond or Pencil? Can you take the pain! Diamond or Pencil? Can you take the pain! https://tda.podbean.com/e/diamond-or-pencil-can-you-take-the-pain/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/diamond-or-pencil-can-you-take-the-pain/#comments Sun, 26 Jul 2026 18:47:10 -0500 tda.podbean.com/e353ef38-906d-3f0d-9a91-5279997c4cd6 The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com 

Garth Heckman

 OUR WORLD IS BUILT ON ONE PREMISE AND ONE PREMISE ALONE: HOW TO AVOID PAIN!

EVERY ADVERTISEMENT, POST, SPEECH, BLURB, NEWSCAST… Bottom line its about avoiding pain. 

A life without pain is not joy… it is numb. 

 

"We think the goal is a life with no pain. But a life with no pain isn't joy — it's just numbness wearing a smile.”

 

When I busted my toe… went in to the doctor joking… 

When they started stabbing my toe with a red hot needle I was quiet… the nurse said “well it must not hurt that much for you”. 

My wife quickly replied “oh no, it hurts… when my husband is in pain he doesn’t say anything”. 

 

IS THAT YOU TODAY? When I’m in pain I don’t say much.

  -  How long has this been going on? 

Well your friend with their fancy persuasion Don’t admit that its part of the scheme

I Can’t help but have my suspicions 

Cuz I aint quite as dumb as I seen

 

  -  When Ryan was born I almost lost Kim and Ryan… just nights before on a Sunday I was at the altar giving God everything… no matter what - even my unborn son… that night in the hospital I went out in the hallway and prayed… God I didn’t really mean it. 

 

Pain isn't just endured — it's productive, when surrendered to God.

 

Big Idea

Pain is not evidence God has abandoned you — it's often the very mechanism He uses to complete you.

Point 1: Pain is Pressure, Not Punishment

Rom. 5:3 We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. 4 And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation. 5 And this hope will not lead to disappointment. For we know how dearly God loves us, because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love.

 

Pile of leaves at the cottage… 

“Eddy call the fire department”

 

Greek: θλῖψις (thlipsis) — translated tribulation, trouble, affliction, anguish, persecution, burdened — the word literally carries the image of being pressed or squeezed under weight.

Paul uses this exact word in Romans 5:3 — "we also exult in our tribulations (thlipsis), knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance." Thlipsis isn't God's disappointment in you; it's pressure applied toward something, not punishment for something.

 

Illustration: Diamonds form under extreme pressure and heat, deep in the earth, over millions of years — carbon that never faced that pressure stays soft graphite, useful for pencils, never for jewelry. The pressure isn't the interruption of the diamond's story. It is the diamond's story.

 

**No girl swoons over a boy kneeling down and proposing with a pencil. 

]]> The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com 

Garth Heckman

 OUR WORLD IS BUILT ON ONE PREMISE AND ONE PREMISE ALONE: HOW TO AVOID PAIN!

EVERY ADVERTISEMENT, POST, SPEECH, BLURB, NEWSCAST… Bottom line its about avoiding pain. 

A life without pain is not joy… it is numb. 

 

"We think the goal is a life with no pain. But a life with no pain isn't joy — it's just numbness wearing a smile.”

 

When I busted my toe… went in to the doctor joking… 

When they started stabbing my toe with a red hot needle I was quiet… the nurse said “well it must not hurt that much for you”. 

My wife quickly replied “oh no, it hurts… when my husband is in pain he doesn’t say anything”. 

 

IS THAT YOU TODAY? When I’m in pain I don’t say much.

  -  How long has this been going on? 

Well your friend with their fancy persuasion Don’t admit that its part of the scheme

I Can’t help but have my suspicions 

Cuz I aint quite as dumb as I seen

 

  -  When Ryan was born I almost lost Kim and Ryan… just nights before on a Sunday I was at the altar giving God everything… no matter what - even my unborn son… that night in the hospital I went out in the hallway and prayed… God I didn’t really mean it. 

 

Pain isn't just endured — it's productive, when surrendered to God.

 

Big Idea

Pain is not evidence God has abandoned you — it's often the very mechanism He uses to complete you.

Point 1: Pain is Pressure, Not Punishment

Rom. 5:3 We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. 4 And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation. 5 And this hope will not lead to disappointment. For we know how dearly God loves us, because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love.

 

Pile of leaves at the cottage… 

“Eddy call the fire department”

 

Greek: θλῖψις (thlipsis) — translated tribulation, trouble, affliction, anguish, persecution, burdened — the word literally carries the image of being pressed or squeezed under weight.

Paul uses this exact word in Romans 5:3 — "we also exult in our tribulations (thlipsis), knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance." Thlipsis isn't God's disappointment in you; it's pressure applied toward something, not punishment for something.

 

Illustration: Diamonds form under extreme pressure and heat, deep in the earth, over millions of years — carbon that never faced that pressure stays soft graphite, useful for pencils, never for jewelry. The pressure isn't the interruption of the diamond's story. It is the diamond's story.

 

**No girl swoons over a boy kneeling down and proposing with a pencil. 

]]> Garth Heckman false No 467 1729 full It's Gott'a die! It's Gott'a die! https://tda.podbean.com/e/its-gotta-die/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/its-gotta-die/#comments Thu, 23 Jul 2026 14:38:34 -0500 tda.podbean.com/780783c1-18e0-3942-8345-dde2f55010f6 The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com

Garth Heckman

Insight C: The Necessity of Falling and Dying (Kokkos)

In John 12:24, Jesus states: "Truly, truly, I say to you, unless a grain (kokkos) of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it bears much fruit."

  • The Sermon Point: Burial is not the end; it is the beginning.
  • The Greek Nuance: A kokkos is a singular, isolated kernel. Unbroken, it has a shelf life of years but remains entirely alone. Only by being "buried" in the dark, breaking open, and surrendering its structure can its inner life be released.
  • Application: This is Jesus predicting His death, but it's also a template for discipleship. Our greatest impact doesn't come from protecting our lives, but from our willingness to lay them down. What feels like "burial" in our lives is often God "planting" us for a harvest.

 

WE HAVE A DREAM - a seed - we don’t just let it die… we understand the process.

In the real world, we get the seed, we find fertile ground, we dig a hole, we bury it, we water it, we expose it so sun, we keep bugs away, we fertilize it…  but in that process is still death - it has to die!

The seed surrenders unto death - it must die.

We must die to ourselves. We must be willing to say “ok God I have done everything I can, plant, water, fertilize, weed… but I also trust you to do whatever you want… if it dies, I trust you”.  

 

Deep inside the Arctic Circle, carved into a frozen mountain on a remote Norwegian island, sits the Svalbard Global Seed Vault. It is built to withstand earthquakes, nuclear war, and rising sea levels. Inside, there are over a million seed samples from every corner of the earth. They are kept in airtight, triple-ply foil packets at a constant temperature of minus 18 degrees Celsius. Why? To keep them perfectly safe. To keep them from changing. To keep them from dying.

It is a masterpiece of human preservation. But here is the paradox of a seed: As long as a seed is kept safe, dry, and preserved, it is completely useless.

A seed is not designed for a high-tech vault. It is designed to be thrown into the dirt, rained on, broken open, and utterly destroyed. Its safety is its starvation; its burial is its birth.

The Transition:

"Many of us live our lives like spiritual seed vaults. We spend all our energy keeping ourselves safe, comfortable, and controlled. We avoid the dirt of sacrifice, the darkness of suffering, and the pain of breaking. But Jesus did not call us to be preserved; He called us to be planted. Today, we are going to look at why God often takes what we love most and buries it—not to destroy it, but to unlock its true potential..."

You can’t just simply hang on to a seed, a dream, a goal, a vision and just expect God to use it. You have to take a step of faith, plant it and hope it dies so that only God can make it grow! 

]]> The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com

Garth Heckman

Insight C: The Necessity of Falling and Dying (Kokkos)

In John 12:24, Jesus states: "Truly, truly, I say to you, unless a grain (kokkos) of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it bears much fruit."

  • The Sermon Point: Burial is not the end; it is the beginning.
  • The Greek Nuance: A kokkos is a singular, isolated kernel. Unbroken, it has a shelf life of years but remains entirely alone. Only by being "buried" in the dark, breaking open, and surrendering its structure can its inner life be released.
  • Application: This is Jesus predicting His death, but it's also a template for discipleship. Our greatest impact doesn't come from protecting our lives, but from our willingness to lay them down. What feels like "burial" in our lives is often God "planting" us for a harvest.

 

WE HAVE A DREAM - a seed - we don’t just let it die… we understand the process.

In the real world, we get the seed, we find fertile ground, we dig a hole, we bury it, we water it, we expose it so sun, we keep bugs away, we fertilize it…  but in that process is still death - it has to die!

The seed surrenders unto death - it must die.

We must die to ourselves. We must be willing to say “ok God I have done everything I can, plant, water, fertilize, weed… but I also trust you to do whatever you want… if it dies, I trust you”.  

 

Deep inside the Arctic Circle, carved into a frozen mountain on a remote Norwegian island, sits the Svalbard Global Seed Vault. It is built to withstand earthquakes, nuclear war, and rising sea levels. Inside, there are over a million seed samples from every corner of the earth. They are kept in airtight, triple-ply foil packets at a constant temperature of minus 18 degrees Celsius. Why? To keep them perfectly safe. To keep them from changing. To keep them from dying.

It is a masterpiece of human preservation. But here is the paradox of a seed: As long as a seed is kept safe, dry, and preserved, it is completely useless.

A seed is not designed for a high-tech vault. It is designed to be thrown into the dirt, rained on, broken open, and utterly destroyed. Its safety is its starvation; its burial is its birth.

The Transition:

"Many of us live our lives like spiritual seed vaults. We spend all our energy keeping ourselves safe, comfortable, and controlled. We avoid the dirt of sacrifice, the darkness of suffering, and the pain of breaking. But Jesus did not call us to be preserved; He called us to be planted. Today, we are going to look at why God often takes what we love most and buries it—not to destroy it, but to unlock its true potential..."

You can’t just simply hang on to a seed, a dream, a goal, a vision and just expect God to use it. You have to take a step of faith, plant it and hope it dies so that only God can make it grow! 

]]> Garth Heckman false No 466 1728 full I'm Flaky? Greatest compliment ever! I'm Flaky? Greatest compliment ever! https://tda.podbean.com/e/im-flaky-greatest-compliment-ever/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/im-flaky-greatest-compliment-ever/#comments Wed, 22 Jul 2026 11:42:39 -0500 tda.podbean.com/2c32ec70-6d40-30ab-8e78-14a8d5e7ee6d The David Alliance 

TDAgiantSlayer@gmail.com

Garth Heckman

 

The Singular Seed of Promise (Sperma)

In Galatians 3:16, Paul makes a massive grammatical and theological argument based on a singular noun:

"The promises were spoken to Abraham and to his seed. Scripture does not say 'and to seeds,' meaning many people, but 'and to your seed,' meaning one person, who is Christ."

  • The Sermon Point: The Old Testament was not pointing to a demographic, but a Deliverer.
  • The Greek Nuance: Paul uses the singular sperma. In Hebrew, zera (seed) can be collective (like "sheep" or "hair"), but Paul utilizes the Greek singular to show that the entire covenant of Abraham was funneled into a single focal point: Jesus.

ONE PERSON - ONE SEED - ONE DEATH - “ONE MULTIPLICATION” = FOR ALL

  • Application: Because we are "in Christ," we inherit the promises not by genetic pedigree, but by being joined to the ultimate Sperma. Furthermore, 1 John 3:9 says God’s sperma (divine seed/DNA) now abides in us, meaning we carry the family likeness of heaven.

The Hook:

If you’ve ever stood at the base of a Giant Sequoia in California, you know it is a humbling experience. These trees can grow to be nearly 300 feet tall, 30 feet wide, and can live for over 3,000 years. They are absolute titans—so massive that a single branch can be larger than the trunk of a standard city tree.

But if you were to hold the seed of a Giant Sequoia in your hand, you would be shocked. It looks like a tiny, papery flake of oatmeal. It is about a quarter of an inch long, and it weighs a fraction of a gram. It is almost weightless.

If you dropped it on the ground, you would never find it. Yet, wrapped inside that microscopic, fragile speck of dust is the genetic blueprint for a giant that can withstand wildfires, outlast empires, and tower over the landscape.

The Transition:

"The Kingdom of God works on the exact same principle. God loves to hide massive, landscape-changing futures inside microscopic, easily overlooked packages. Today, you might feel small, unnoticed, or insignificant. But you need to understand that the power of your future is not determined by the size of your current starting point, but by the design of the Seed inside you..."

]]> The David Alliance 

TDAgiantSlayer@gmail.com

Garth Heckman

 

The Singular Seed of Promise (Sperma)

In Galatians 3:16, Paul makes a massive grammatical and theological argument based on a singular noun:

"The promises were spoken to Abraham and to his seed. Scripture does not say 'and to seeds,' meaning many people, but 'and to your seed,' meaning one person, who is Christ."

  • The Sermon Point: The Old Testament was not pointing to a demographic, but a Deliverer.
  • The Greek Nuance: Paul uses the singular sperma. In Hebrew, zera (seed) can be collective (like "sheep" or "hair"), but Paul utilizes the Greek singular to show that the entire covenant of Abraham was funneled into a single focal point: Jesus.

ONE PERSON - ONE SEED - ONE DEATH - “ONE MULTIPLICATION” = FOR ALL

  • Application: Because we are "in Christ," we inherit the promises not by genetic pedigree, but by being joined to the ultimate Sperma. Furthermore, 1 John 3:9 says God’s sperma (divine seed/DNA) now abides in us, meaning we carry the family likeness of heaven.

The Hook:

If you’ve ever stood at the base of a Giant Sequoia in California, you know it is a humbling experience. These trees can grow to be nearly 300 feet tall, 30 feet wide, and can live for over 3,000 years. They are absolute titans—so massive that a single branch can be larger than the trunk of a standard city tree.

But if you were to hold the seed of a Giant Sequoia in your hand, you would be shocked. It looks like a tiny, papery flake of oatmeal. It is about a quarter of an inch long, and it weighs a fraction of a gram. It is almost weightless.

If you dropped it on the ground, you would never find it. Yet, wrapped inside that microscopic, fragile speck of dust is the genetic blueprint for a giant that can withstand wildfires, outlast empires, and tower over the landscape.

The Transition:

"The Kingdom of God works on the exact same principle. God loves to hide massive, landscape-changing futures inside microscopic, easily overlooked packages. Today, you might feel small, unnoticed, or insignificant. But you need to understand that the power of your future is not determined by the size of your current starting point, but by the design of the Seed inside you..."

]]> Garth Heckman false No 465 1727 full The Dirt Don't Care! The Dirt Don't Care! https://tda.podbean.com/e/the-dirt-dont-care/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/the-dirt-dont-care/#comments Mon, 20 Jul 2026 21:00:28 -0500 tda.podbean.com/2fc1258b-0917-3015-a683-9bf248a12d10 The David Alliance

Garth Heckman

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com

 

In the Parable of the Sower (Luke 8) and the lesser-known Parable of the Growing Seed (Mark 4:26-29), Jesus uses sporos.

  • The Sermon Point: The power is in the seed, not the dirt.
  • The Greek Nuance: In Mark 4:28, Jesus says the earth produces crops "by itself". The Greek word used there is automati, from which we get our word automatic.
  • Application: The farmer’s job is simply to plant and get out of the way. We often exhaust ourselves trying to "produce" spiritual growth, but spiritual transformation is an automatic, organic result of God's Word being allowed to dwell in a healthy heart.

Some seed was eaten, some burned up, some choked out, some on good soil.

It’s not your job to choose which soil… its your job to plant. 

And point 2… 

THE DIRT DOESN’T CARE WHAT YOU PLANT.

 

In the 1960s, archaeologists excavating Masada—the ancient mountaintop fortress in Israel—discovered a small jar containing a handful of date palm seeds. Carbon dating revealed they were 2,000 years old. They had survived the Roman siege, the fall of Jerusalem, and two millennia of scorching desert heat. They looked like shriveled, dusty, dead pebbles.

In 2005, scientists decided to do an experiment. They took those ancient seeds, hydrated them, treated them with organic fertilizer, and planted them in the soil.

To the amazement of the scientific world, one of those seeds sprouted. Today, that plant—named "Methuselah"—is a thriving, fruit-bearing palm tree. For 2,000 years, the life inside that seed didn't rot, didn't evaporate, and didn't expire. It was just waiting for the right soil.

The Transition:

"When Peter says we are born of 'incorruptible seed' through the living and enduring Word of God, he is telling us that God’s truth has an eternal shelf life. It doesn't matter how dry your life feels, or how many years you think you’ve wasted. When the living Word of God finally hits the soil of a receptive heart, life willbreak through

]]> The David Alliance

Garth Heckman

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com

 

In the Parable of the Sower (Luke 8) and the lesser-known Parable of the Growing Seed (Mark 4:26-29), Jesus uses sporos.

  • The Sermon Point: The power is in the seed, not the dirt.
  • The Greek Nuance: In Mark 4:28, Jesus says the earth produces crops "by itself". The Greek word used there is automati, from which we get our word automatic.
  • Application: The farmer’s job is simply to plant and get out of the way. We often exhaust ourselves trying to "produce" spiritual growth, but spiritual transformation is an automatic, organic result of God's Word being allowed to dwell in a healthy heart.

Some seed was eaten, some burned up, some choked out, some on good soil.

It’s not your job to choose which soil… its your job to plant. 

And point 2… 

THE DIRT DOESN’T CARE WHAT YOU PLANT.

 

In the 1960s, archaeologists excavating Masada—the ancient mountaintop fortress in Israel—discovered a small jar containing a handful of date palm seeds. Carbon dating revealed they were 2,000 years old. They had survived the Roman siege, the fall of Jerusalem, and two millennia of scorching desert heat. They looked like shriveled, dusty, dead pebbles.

In 2005, scientists decided to do an experiment. They took those ancient seeds, hydrated them, treated them with organic fertilizer, and planted them in the soil.

To the amazement of the scientific world, one of those seeds sprouted. Today, that plant—named "Methuselah"—is a thriving, fruit-bearing palm tree. For 2,000 years, the life inside that seed didn't rot, didn't evaporate, and didn't expire. It was just waiting for the right soil.

The Transition:

"When Peter says we are born of 'incorruptible seed' through the living and enduring Word of God, he is telling us that God’s truth has an eternal shelf life. It doesn't matter how dry your life feels, or how many years you think you’ve wasted. When the living Word of God finally hits the soil of a receptive heart, life willbreak through

]]> Garth Heckman false No 407 1726 full The Seed is the Process The Seed is the Process https://tda.podbean.com/e/the-seed-is-the-process/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/the-seed-is-the-process/#comments Sun, 19 Jul 2026 17:50:07 -0500 tda.podbean.com/ebac6e13-4220-3fc6-a45f-479bf2db9cff Garth Heckman

The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com 

The seed is the Process

 

Working for Harold Busse at Busse flowers… Hyacinths bulb… I did what he said and it actually grew. When I told him a few weeks later he looked at me as if I was the dumb kid! 

 

Harold Busse THERE IS ALWAYS A PROCESS YEAR AFTER YEAR

 

A process is simply a predictable, repeatable series of steps designed to achieve a specific outcome.

 

The Bible talks about processes… there is always a process behind biblical principles. 

 

But we can miss the idea behind process when we read scripture because it uses words like SEEDS.

SEEDS IN SCRIPTURE are seen as

The word of God - planted

Faith 

The Kingdom

Giving and Tithing

The Covenant of Christ body

Our personal body and spirit

AND THERE IS GOOD SEED AND BAD SEED

 

 

3 Types of Greek words used for Seed

Sporo - the actual physical seed

Sperma - the actual DNA of a seed as in the lineage

Koh-Kos - The single seed with massive potential 

 

2. Three Deep Theological Insights for Your Sermon

Insight A: The Mystery of Automatic Growth (Sporos)

 

18th and 19th centuries, wooden sailing ships left European ports to pick up heavy cargo (like tobacco, cotton, or sugar) from the Americas. To keep the empty ships stable on the journey to America, sailors filled the hulls with "ballast"—tons of local soil, gravel, and river stones dug up from European riverbanks.

When the ships arrived in ports like Philadelphia, Boston, or Portland, sailors dumped the ballast onto the waterfront to make room for the cargo. Hidden inside that soil were millions of European seeds.

  • This accidental conveyor belt introduced famous weeds like the Common Dandelion, 
]]> Garth Heckman

The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com 

The seed is the Process

 

Working for Harold Busse at Busse flowers… Hyacinths bulb… I did what he said and it actually grew. When I told him a few weeks later he looked at me as if I was the dumb kid! 

 

Harold Busse THERE IS ALWAYS A PROCESS YEAR AFTER YEAR

 

A process is simply a predictable, repeatable series of steps designed to achieve a specific outcome.

 

The Bible talks about processes… there is always a process behind biblical principles. 

 

But we can miss the idea behind process when we read scripture because it uses words like SEEDS.

SEEDS IN SCRIPTURE are seen as

The word of God - planted

Faith 

The Kingdom

Giving and Tithing

The Covenant of Christ body

Our personal body and spirit

AND THERE IS GOOD SEED AND BAD SEED

 

 

3 Types of Greek words used for Seed

Sporo - the actual physical seed

Sperma - the actual DNA of a seed as in the lineage

Koh-Kos - The single seed with massive potential 

 

2. Three Deep Theological Insights for Your Sermon

Insight A: The Mystery of Automatic Growth (Sporos)

 

18th and 19th centuries, wooden sailing ships left European ports to pick up heavy cargo (like tobacco, cotton, or sugar) from the Americas. To keep the empty ships stable on the journey to America, sailors filled the hulls with "ballast"—tons of local soil, gravel, and river stones dug up from European riverbanks.

When the ships arrived in ports like Philadelphia, Boston, or Portland, sailors dumped the ballast onto the waterfront to make room for the cargo. Hidden inside that soil were millions of European seeds.

  • This accidental conveyor belt introduced famous weeds like the Common Dandelion, 
]]> Garth Heckman false No 463 1725 full From Adulthood to Manhood- 5 things you need! From Adulthood to Manhood- 5 things you need! https://tda.podbean.com/e/from-adulthood-to-manhood-5-things-you-need/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/from-adulthood-to-manhood-5-things-you-need/#comments Thu, 16 Jul 2026 18:35:43 -0500 tda.podbean.com/f42abd36-2097-3c5d-ae16-e685350809a2 TDA

The David Alliance

Garth Heckman

 

The transition to adulthood has changed dramatically. Between the rapid rise of digital technology—which often replaces face-to-face community with screens—and the shifting structures of family and labor, the traditional "scripts" for how to grow up as a man have largely been dismantled.

To build a healthy, successful, and purposeful life today, young men should focus on five critical areas of awareness, backed by sociology, psychology, and modern research.

1. Redefining Purpose Beyond the "Sole Provider" Role

For generations, the default script for masculinity was simple: be the primary financial provider and protector. As women have rightfully achieved rapid economic and educational progress, that old script has evolved. Many young men now struggle with feeling obsolete or "optional" when they are no longer expected to be the sole breadwinner.

Young men need to understand that their value in a family and in a relationship is deeply personal, emotional, and cooperative—not just a paycheck.

"The state of feeling unneeded is literally fatal. The best protector against despair is realizing that the world needs you."

— Richard Reeves, President of the American Institute for Boys and Men (AIBM)

Modern success means learning to be an equal, emotionally present partner and co-creator of a stable home, rather than holding onto an outdated, isolating provider model.

2. Transitioning from "Digital Retreat" to Real-World Agency

With the rise of smartphones, immersive video games, online pornography, and social media, it has never been easier to escape the discomfort of real life. Researchers note that while young women struggling with mental health often report higher rates of internal anxiety, young men are more prone to "checking out" entirely—retreating into virtual worlds where they feel a false sense of control.

To combat this, young adults must cultivate a mindful, active relationship with technology. The Wise Use Tech Plandeveloped by mental health professionals suggests the Three T's for managing tech:

  • Tracking: Consciously observing how much you use your devices and how you feel afterward.
  • Telling: Sharing your habits and feelings with trusted friends or mentors to build real-world accountability.
  • Tuning In: Asking yourself if you are using screens to escape boredom, social anxiety, or the hard work of building a life.

Success in the physical world requires stepping outside the screen, embracing the discomfort of real-world interactions, and taking active ownership of your daily life.

]]> TDA

The David Alliance

Garth Heckman

 

The transition to adulthood has changed dramatically. Between the rapid rise of digital technology—which often replaces face-to-face community with screens—and the shifting structures of family and labor, the traditional "scripts" for how to grow up as a man have largely been dismantled.

To build a healthy, successful, and purposeful life today, young men should focus on five critical areas of awareness, backed by sociology, psychology, and modern research.

1. Redefining Purpose Beyond the "Sole Provider" Role

For generations, the default script for masculinity was simple: be the primary financial provider and protector. As women have rightfully achieved rapid economic and educational progress, that old script has evolved. Many young men now struggle with feeling obsolete or "optional" when they are no longer expected to be the sole breadwinner.

Young men need to understand that their value in a family and in a relationship is deeply personal, emotional, and cooperative—not just a paycheck.

"The state of feeling unneeded is literally fatal. The best protector against despair is realizing that the world needs you."

— Richard Reeves, President of the American Institute for Boys and Men (AIBM)

Modern success means learning to be an equal, emotionally present partner and co-creator of a stable home, rather than holding onto an outdated, isolating provider model.

2. Transitioning from "Digital Retreat" to Real-World Agency

With the rise of smartphones, immersive video games, online pornography, and social media, it has never been easier to escape the discomfort of real life. Researchers note that while young women struggling with mental health often report higher rates of internal anxiety, young men are more prone to "checking out" entirely—retreating into virtual worlds where they feel a false sense of control.

To combat this, young adults must cultivate a mindful, active relationship with technology. The Wise Use Tech Plandeveloped by mental health professionals suggests the Three T's for managing tech:

  • Tracking: Consciously observing how much you use your devices and how you feel afterward.
  • Telling: Sharing your habits and feelings with trusted friends or mentors to build real-world accountability.
  • Tuning In: Asking yourself if you are using screens to escape boredom, social anxiety, or the hard work of building a life.

Success in the physical world requires stepping outside the screen, embracing the discomfort of real-world interactions, and taking active ownership of your daily life.

]]> Garth Heckman false No 483 1724 full It was a GUSHER! It was a GUSHER! https://tda.podbean.com/e/it-was-a-gusher/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/it-was-a-gusher/#comments Wed, 15 Jul 2026 19:46:07 -0500 tda.podbean.com/2c333e2a-a0f2-3a45-8b49-3f4b63d79654 THE DAVID ALLIANCE

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com

Garth Heckman

CATCH THIS:

 Because the Holy Spirit indwells the believer, you become the mobile temple of God. The cosmic river of life no longer flows from a building in Jerusalem; it flows out of the deepest, most central part of your converted being.

 

 

Rheousin (ῥεύσουσιν) – "Will Flow"

  • The Literal Meaning: This is a continuous active verb meaning to stream, to gush, or to flood heavily… ALWAYS FLOWING ALWAYS FRESH

 

 

 

The theology here is clear: Believers are not meant to be reservoirs that store up grace; we are meant to be pipelines that distribute it.

 

4. Practical Applications: Living the Outflow

If the koilia (the core) is filled with the Spirit, it must result in a rheousin (a gushing flow) into our everyday environments. Here is how that applies practically:

 

 

WHAT THIS MEANS

1. Shift from "Consuming" to "Overflowing"

 

2. Radical Environmental Transformation (The Ezekiel Effect) WHERE EVER WE GO THINGS ARE GONNA GET WET! 

 

3. Cultivating Emotional Integrity at the Core (Koilia)

Because the river flows from the koilia—the seat of our emotions and deepest hidden spaces—it means our inner world matters immensely. If our inner core is clogged with bitterness, unexpressed anger, or anxiety, the outflow gets restricted.

 

 

 

 

James 3:11,12 can bitterness and fresh water come 

 

Inconsistency reveals a problem - not with the source, but within the choice of which source to work from. 

Its all about control - not the source

The tongue… the mind - must be renewed.

The river of life …the inner being of a man. 

 

So we see two things at work in us…

We can block the River - choosing to not obey

We can poison the River - thought life

 

How to poison a river?

Satan can’t read your mind… 

I can… every time. - you are going to think about chocolate ice cream… 

NOW: I bet you are thinking about chocolate ice cream! 

THEN: I attack you for thinking of chocolate ice cream. That’s how satan works. 

 

 

 

Practical Application from Scripture

To keep the River flowing freely:

- Walk in the Spirit (Galatians 5:16, 25).

- Be filled with the Spirit continually (Ephesians 5:18).

- Obey His leading, pursue holiness, and fan into flame the gift of God (2 Timothy 1:6).

- Repent quickly when we grieve or quench Him.

]]> THE DAVID ALLIANCE

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com

Garth Heckman

CATCH THIS:

 Because the Holy Spirit indwells the believer, you become the mobile temple of God. The cosmic river of life no longer flows from a building in Jerusalem; it flows out of the deepest, most central part of your converted being.

 

 

Rheousin (ῥεύσουσιν) – "Will Flow"

  • The Literal Meaning: This is a continuous active verb meaning to stream, to gush, or to flood heavily… ALWAYS FLOWING ALWAYS FRESH

 

 

 

The theology here is clear: Believers are not meant to be reservoirs that store up grace; we are meant to be pipelines that distribute it.

 

4. Practical Applications: Living the Outflow

If the koilia (the core) is filled with the Spirit, it must result in a rheousin (a gushing flow) into our everyday environments. Here is how that applies practically:

 

 

WHAT THIS MEANS

1. Shift from "Consuming" to "Overflowing"

 

2. Radical Environmental Transformation (The Ezekiel Effect) WHERE EVER WE GO THINGS ARE GONNA GET WET! 

 

3. Cultivating Emotional Integrity at the Core (Koilia)

Because the river flows from the koilia—the seat of our emotions and deepest hidden spaces—it means our inner world matters immensely. If our inner core is clogged with bitterness, unexpressed anger, or anxiety, the outflow gets restricted.

 

 

 

 

James 3:11,12 can bitterness and fresh water come 

 

Inconsistency reveals a problem - not with the source, but within the choice of which source to work from. 

Its all about control - not the source

The tongue… the mind - must be renewed.

The river of life …the inner being of a man. 

 

So we see two things at work in us…

We can block the River - choosing to not obey

We can poison the River - thought life

 

How to poison a river?

Satan can’t read your mind… 

I can… every time. - you are going to think about chocolate ice cream… 

NOW: I bet you are thinking about chocolate ice cream! 

THEN: I attack you for thinking of chocolate ice cream. That’s how satan works. 

 

 

 

Practical Application from Scripture

To keep the River flowing freely:

- Walk in the Spirit (Galatians 5:16, 25).

- Be filled with the Spirit continually (Ephesians 5:18).

- Obey His leading, pursue holiness, and fan into flame the gift of God (2 Timothy 1:6).

- Repent quickly when we grieve or quench Him.

]]> Garth Heckman false No 461 1723 full RIV-Uh... or River? RIV-Uh... or River? https://tda.podbean.com/e/riv-uh-or-river/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/riv-uh-or-river/#comments Tue, 14 Jul 2026 20:35:06 -0500 tda.podbean.com/2a6d87c5-7a09-3b14-b998-2c632266b150 TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com 

The David Alliance

Garth Heckman

The New Testament / Messianic Connection

In Christian theology, Jesus directly applies this imagery to himself and the Holy Spirit. In John 7:37-38, he stands up at the Feast of Tabernacles—a festival focused heavily on water rituals—and cries out: "Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them." The ultimate fulfillment is seen as the Gospel and the Holy Spirit starting as a small movement in Jerusalem and swelling to bring spiritual life to the "dead" places of the entire world.

 

 

John 7:38 reads: “Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them.”

To fully capture the weight of this verse, we have to look at the explosive cultural context in which Jesus said it, the radical imagery of the original Greek, and what it actually looks like when this "living water" breaks out into daily life.

 

1. The Theological Context: The Water Libation Ritual

Jesus doesn’t whisper this statement in private; he shouts it on the final, greatest day of the Feast of Tabernacles(Sukkot).

During this 7-day festival, the High Priest led a massive procession down to the Pool of Siloam, filled a golden pitcher with water, and marched back to the Temple. As the crowds waved palm branches and sang the Hallel (Psalms 113–118), the priest poured the water out onto the altar.

 

On the eighth day, the water pouring stopped—symbolizing that the desert wanderings were over and they had reached the Promised Land. It is precisely at this moment of silence, when the water ritual ends, that Jesus stands up and shouts that He is the true source of that water. He is claiming to be the rock in the desert, the fulfillment of Ezekiel’s temple, and the source of the prophetic river.

 

2. Deep Dive Into the Greek Text

Two specific words in the original Greek completely change how we visualize this verse.

Koilia (κοιλία) – "From Within Them"

  • The Literal Meaning: In older translations (like the KJV), this is translated as "out of his belly." Koilia literally refers to the abdomen, the womb, the innermost core, or the seat of human appetite and emotion.

 

IT WILL CHANGE YOU DEEPLY FROM THE INSIDE OUT… **The man who hit his thumb with a hammer who was filled with joy “I didn’t swear… I didn’t swear..! 

 

  • The Theological Depth: Jesus is making a startling anatomical shift. In Ezekiel's vision, the river flowed from the physical threshold of the Temple. Jesus says that for the believer, the river flows from their koilia—their absolute innermost core.

 

 

CATCH THIS:

 Because the Holy Spirit indwells the believer, you become the mobile temple of God. The cosmic river of life no longer flows from a building in Jerusalem; it flows out of the deepest, most central part of your converted being.

]]> TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com 

The David Alliance

Garth Heckman

The New Testament / Messianic Connection

In Christian theology, Jesus directly applies this imagery to himself and the Holy Spirit. In John 7:37-38, he stands up at the Feast of Tabernacles—a festival focused heavily on water rituals—and cries out: "Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them." The ultimate fulfillment is seen as the Gospel and the Holy Spirit starting as a small movement in Jerusalem and swelling to bring spiritual life to the "dead" places of the entire world.

 

 

John 7:38 reads: “Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them.”

To fully capture the weight of this verse, we have to look at the explosive cultural context in which Jesus said it, the radical imagery of the original Greek, and what it actually looks like when this "living water" breaks out into daily life.

 

1. The Theological Context: The Water Libation Ritual

Jesus doesn’t whisper this statement in private; he shouts it on the final, greatest day of the Feast of Tabernacles(Sukkot).

During this 7-day festival, the High Priest led a massive procession down to the Pool of Siloam, filled a golden pitcher with water, and marched back to the Temple. As the crowds waved palm branches and sang the Hallel (Psalms 113–118), the priest poured the water out onto the altar.

 

On the eighth day, the water pouring stopped—symbolizing that the desert wanderings were over and they had reached the Promised Land. It is precisely at this moment of silence, when the water ritual ends, that Jesus stands up and shouts that He is the true source of that water. He is claiming to be the rock in the desert, the fulfillment of Ezekiel’s temple, and the source of the prophetic river.

 

2. Deep Dive Into the Greek Text

Two specific words in the original Greek completely change how we visualize this verse.

Koilia (κοιλία) – "From Within Them"

  • The Literal Meaning: In older translations (like the KJV), this is translated as "out of his belly." Koilia literally refers to the abdomen, the womb, the innermost core, or the seat of human appetite and emotion.

 

IT WILL CHANGE YOU DEEPLY FROM THE INSIDE OUT… **The man who hit his thumb with a hammer who was filled with joy “I didn’t swear… I didn’t swear..! 

 

  • The Theological Depth: Jesus is making a startling anatomical shift. In Ezekiel's vision, the river flowed from the physical threshold of the Temple. Jesus says that for the believer, the river flows from their koilia—their absolute innermost core.

 

 

CATCH THIS:

 Because the Holy Spirit indwells the believer, you become the mobile temple of God. The cosmic river of life no longer flows from a building in Jerusalem; it flows out of the deepest, most central part of your converted being.

]]> Garth Heckman false No 465 1722 full Let it FLOW to GROW Let it FLOW to GROW https://tda.podbean.com/e/let-it-flow-to-grow/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/let-it-flow-to-grow/#comments Sun, 12 Jul 2026 17:34:06 -0500 tda.podbean.com/cd31105c-f648-3347-a433-c4c931a2ae7f GARTH Heckman

TDAgiantSlayer@gmail.com

The David Alliance 

1. The Message in a Bottle from the Canadian Wilderness

In the early 2000s, a young boy living near a small, unnamed tributary stream in the remote wilderness of northern Alberta, Canada, dropped a plastic bottle containing a note into the water.

  • The River Highway: The small stream trickled into the Athabasca River. From there, the current carried it into Lake Athabasca, which feeds into the Slave River. The Slave River then flows into the massive Mackenzie River—the longest river system in Canada.
  • The Ocean Arrival: The Mackenzie River emptied the bottle into the Arctic Ocean, thousands of miles north of where it started.
  • The Final Twist: But the journey didn't stop there. Caught in the Arctic's churning currents and shifting pack ice, the bottle traveled through the Northwest Passage, drifted down past Greenland, and entered the Atlantic Ocean.
  • The Discovery: Nearly 15 years later, the heavily weathered bottle washed ashore on a rugged beach in Scotland, roughly 4,000 miles away from the quiet Canadian stream where it began.

 

 

 

Ezekiel’s temple river vision, found in Ezekiel 47:1–12, is one of the most powerful and visually vivid passages in Hebrew prophecy. Writing while exiled in Babylon after the destruction of Jerusalem and Solomon's Temple, Ezekiel is given a visionary tour of a magnificent, restored future temple.

The climax of this tour isn't a piece of furniture or a ritual, but a miraculous, life-giving river that alters the geography of the land.

 

1. The Trickle from the Threshold

Ezekiel sees water trickling out from under the south side of the temple threshold, flowing eastward past the altar. It starts as a mere trickle, an unlikely source for a massive body of water.

2. The Supernatural Expansion

The divine guide leads Ezekiel eastward alongside the water, measuring the distance and checking the depth at four distinct intervals:

  • 1,000 cubits (~1,500 feet): The water is ankle-deep.
  • 2,000 cubits: The water reaches the knees.
  • 3,000 cubits: The water is up to the waist.
  • 4,000 cubits: It has become a massive, deep river that cannot be crossed on foot—a river deep enough to swim in.

THOUGHT:

The MORE the River grows the more it is in control. The River is going to go where the River wants to go… you ain’t going to stop it. 

 

The Miracle: What makes this expansion supernatural is that no tributaries or feeding streams are mentioned. The river grows exponentially entirely on its own, flowing straight out from the presence of God.

]]> GARTH Heckman

TDAgiantSlayer@gmail.com

The David Alliance 

1. The Message in a Bottle from the Canadian Wilderness

In the early 2000s, a young boy living near a small, unnamed tributary stream in the remote wilderness of northern Alberta, Canada, dropped a plastic bottle containing a note into the water.

  • The River Highway: The small stream trickled into the Athabasca River. From there, the current carried it into Lake Athabasca, which feeds into the Slave River. The Slave River then flows into the massive Mackenzie River—the longest river system in Canada.
  • The Ocean Arrival: The Mackenzie River emptied the bottle into the Arctic Ocean, thousands of miles north of where it started.
  • The Final Twist: But the journey didn't stop there. Caught in the Arctic's churning currents and shifting pack ice, the bottle traveled through the Northwest Passage, drifted down past Greenland, and entered the Atlantic Ocean.
  • The Discovery: Nearly 15 years later, the heavily weathered bottle washed ashore on a rugged beach in Scotland, roughly 4,000 miles away from the quiet Canadian stream where it began.

 

 

 

Ezekiel’s temple river vision, found in Ezekiel 47:1–12, is one of the most powerful and visually vivid passages in Hebrew prophecy. Writing while exiled in Babylon after the destruction of Jerusalem and Solomon's Temple, Ezekiel is given a visionary tour of a magnificent, restored future temple.

The climax of this tour isn't a piece of furniture or a ritual, but a miraculous, life-giving river that alters the geography of the land.

 

1. The Trickle from the Threshold

Ezekiel sees water trickling out from under the south side of the temple threshold, flowing eastward past the altar. It starts as a mere trickle, an unlikely source for a massive body of water.

2. The Supernatural Expansion

The divine guide leads Ezekiel eastward alongside the water, measuring the distance and checking the depth at four distinct intervals:

  • 1,000 cubits (~1,500 feet): The water is ankle-deep.
  • 2,000 cubits: The water reaches the knees.
  • 3,000 cubits: The water is up to the waist.
  • 4,000 cubits: It has become a massive, deep river that cannot be crossed on foot—a river deep enough to swim in.

THOUGHT:

The MORE the River grows the more it is in control. The River is going to go where the River wants to go… you ain’t going to stop it. 

 

The Miracle: What makes this expansion supernatural is that no tributaries or feeding streams are mentioned. The river grows exponentially entirely on its own, flowing straight out from the presence of God.

]]> Garth Heckman false No 474 1721 full Best Fighting Advice EvER! Best Fighting Advice EvER! https://tda.podbean.com/e/best-fighting-advice-ever/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/best-fighting-advice-ever/#comments Thu, 09 Jul 2026 19:36:25 -0500 tda.podbean.com/d213aba7-4115-35e6-9462-70e1fa2a3ab4 TDA

The David Alliance

Garth Heckman

What’s the best fighting advice you have ever been given… mine?… Avoid confrontation at all costs even if it means running away. Better to be out of breath and look foolish then out of breath because your dead. 

the second best piece of advice Practice responding to an attack more than practicing how to attack back

 

We have been talking about hagah - or focus, attention and meditating. As the scripture says its chewing on something until you absorb it deep into your actions. Not just your mind, but your actions… 

And why is it so important? Because we are at war… and a good soldier knows you practice warfare until it becomes who you are. 

 

If you face just one opponent and you doubt yourself, you are already outnumbered. Dan Milman

 

 

There are more people with no training whatsoever who successfully defend themselves through sheer Will and indignation- than there ever will be trained martial artists, who get attacked and successfully defend themselves. Tony Blauer self defense legend

]]> TDA

The David Alliance

Garth Heckman

What’s the best fighting advice you have ever been given… mine?… Avoid confrontation at all costs even if it means running away. Better to be out of breath and look foolish then out of breath because your dead. 

the second best piece of advice Practice responding to an attack more than practicing how to attack back

 

We have been talking about hagah - or focus, attention and meditating. As the scripture says its chewing on something until you absorb it deep into your actions. Not just your mind, but your actions… 

And why is it so important? Because we are at war… and a good soldier knows you practice warfare until it becomes who you are. 

 

If you face just one opponent and you doubt yourself, you are already outnumbered. Dan Milman

 

 

There are more people with no training whatsoever who successfully defend themselves through sheer Will and indignation- than there ever will be trained martial artists, who get attacked and successfully defend themselves. Tony Blauer self defense legend

]]> Garth Heckman false No 463 1720 full Chew with your moth open... the key to meditation. Chew with your moth open... the key to meditation. https://tda.podbean.com/e/chew-with-your-moth-open-the-key-to-meditation/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/chew-with-your-moth-open-the-key-to-meditation/#comments Wed, 08 Jul 2026 17:11:25 -0500 tda.podbean.com/81bea37a-f6c7-3fb3-aaad-97289ab15712 The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com

Garth Heckman 

The 10-Minute Hagah Protocol

Phase 1: The Setup & Intercept (Minutes 0–2)

Before you can fill your mind, you have to cut off the digital firehose. This phase applies the "cognitive friction" principle to lower your brain's baseline stimulation.

  • Step 1: Leave your phone in a completely separate room. Sit at a clean desk or chair with zero digital screens in your line of sight.
  • Step 2: Use a physical Bible or a single piece of paper with your chosen verse written on it. Do not use a phone app—the temptation to switch tasks is too high.
  • Step 3: Close your eyes and take three deep, slow breaths (inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 4, exhale for 6). This activates the parasympathetic nervous system, slowing your heart rate and preparing the prefrontal cortex for sustained focus.

Phase 2: Selection & The First Taste (Minutes 2–3)

Pick a single, high-impact verse. Do not try to read a whole chapter. You want a single "morsel" to ruminate on.

Good focus options: Proverbs 4:25, Psalm 46:10, Philippians 4:8, or Joshua 1:8.

  • Step 4: Read the verse out loud, slowly, three times. Pay close attention to punctuation and the natural rhythm of the words.

Phase 3: The "Muttering" & Deep Encoding (Minutes 3–7)

This is the core of Hagah—the active rumination. You are going to verbally and mentally circle the text.

  • Step 5 (The Accent Shift): Repeat the verse out loud under your breath (literally muttering it), but shift the emphasis to a different word each time.
    • Example with Psalm 46:10:
    • "BE still, and know that I am God." (Focus on the command to halt movement)
    • "Be STILL, and know that I am God." (Focus on the internal quiet)
    • "Be still, and KNOW that I am God." (Focus on deep, unshakeable certainty)
  • Step 6 (Deconstruction): Pick 1 or 2 core words from the verse and dissect them. Ask yourself: What is the exact opposite of this word? What does this word look like in action on a stressful Tuesday afternoon?

Phase 4: Intercepting the Wander (Continuous)

Your mind will wander during Phase 3. This is normal and is actually the precise moment your attention is trained.

  • Step 7 (The Catch and Release): The moment you realize you are thinking about an email, a project, or a notification, do not get frustrated. Frustration triggers cortisol, which breaks focus. Acknowledge the thought, mentally say "Not right now," and immediately speak the verse out loud to pull your attention back to the anchor.

Phase 5: Personal Integration & Close (Minutes 7–10)

True Hagah must translate from intellectual processing into real-world application.

  • Step 8 (The Bridge): Formulate one concrete sentence tracking how this specific verse applies to the rest of your day.
    • Example: "Because I know to 'be still,' I will not check my notifications between my 2:00 PM and 3:00 PM deep-work blocks today."
  • Step 9 (The Seal): Speak the verse out loud one final time from memory, close your notebook, and transition directly into your primary task for the day while your brain is operating at peak focus.

Why This Works Scientifically

By speaking the text under your breath (muttering), you are engaging dual-coding theory. You aren't just processing the text visually; you are processing it auditorily and kinesthetically (through the physical movement of your vocal cords). This drastically increases the cognitive workload dedicated to that single truth, effectively starving peripheral distractions of the mental energy they need to pull you away.

]]> The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com

Garth Heckman 

The 10-Minute Hagah Protocol

Phase 1: The Setup & Intercept (Minutes 0–2)

Before you can fill your mind, you have to cut off the digital firehose. This phase applies the "cognitive friction" principle to lower your brain's baseline stimulation.

  • Step 1: Leave your phone in a completely separate room. Sit at a clean desk or chair with zero digital screens in your line of sight.
  • Step 2: Use a physical Bible or a single piece of paper with your chosen verse written on it. Do not use a phone app—the temptation to switch tasks is too high.
  • Step 3: Close your eyes and take three deep, slow breaths (inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 4, exhale for 6). This activates the parasympathetic nervous system, slowing your heart rate and preparing the prefrontal cortex for sustained focus.

Phase 2: Selection & The First Taste (Minutes 2–3)

Pick a single, high-impact verse. Do not try to read a whole chapter. You want a single "morsel" to ruminate on.

Good focus options: Proverbs 4:25, Psalm 46:10, Philippians 4:8, or Joshua 1:8.

  • Step 4: Read the verse out loud, slowly, three times. Pay close attention to punctuation and the natural rhythm of the words.

Phase 3: The "Muttering" & Deep Encoding (Minutes 3–7)

This is the core of Hagah—the active rumination. You are going to verbally and mentally circle the text.

  • Step 5 (The Accent Shift): Repeat the verse out loud under your breath (literally muttering it), but shift the emphasis to a different word each time.
    • Example with Psalm 46:10:
    • "BE still, and know that I am God." (Focus on the command to halt movement)
    • "Be STILL, and know that I am God." (Focus on the internal quiet)
    • "Be still, and KNOW that I am God." (Focus on deep, unshakeable certainty)
  • Step 6 (Deconstruction): Pick 1 or 2 core words from the verse and dissect them. Ask yourself: What is the exact opposite of this word? What does this word look like in action on a stressful Tuesday afternoon?

Phase 4: Intercepting the Wander (Continuous)

Your mind will wander during Phase 3. This is normal and is actually the precise moment your attention is trained.

  • Step 7 (The Catch and Release): The moment you realize you are thinking about an email, a project, or a notification, do not get frustrated. Frustration triggers cortisol, which breaks focus. Acknowledge the thought, mentally say "Not right now," and immediately speak the verse out loud to pull your attention back to the anchor.

Phase 5: Personal Integration & Close (Minutes 7–10)

True Hagah must translate from intellectual processing into real-world application.

  • Step 8 (The Bridge): Formulate one concrete sentence tracking how this specific verse applies to the rest of your day.
    • Example: "Because I know to 'be still,' I will not check my notifications between my 2:00 PM and 3:00 PM deep-work blocks today."
  • Step 9 (The Seal): Speak the verse out loud one final time from memory, close your notebook, and transition directly into your primary task for the day while your brain is operating at peak focus.

Why This Works Scientifically

By speaking the text under your breath (muttering), you are engaging dual-coding theory. You aren't just processing the text visually; you are processing it auditorily and kinesthetically (through the physical movement of your vocal cords). This drastically increases the cognitive workload dedicated to that single truth, effectively starving peripheral distractions of the mental energy they need to pull you away.

]]> Garth Heckman false No 462 1719 full Meditate = Filler' up! Meditate = Filler' up! https://tda.podbean.com/e/meditate-filler-up/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/meditate-filler-up/#comments Tue, 07 Jul 2026 21:10:28 -0500 tda.podbean.com/8319f8f5-7e2d-3e6c-9ead-70662c67f09b Garth Heckman

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com

The David Alliance 

To understand how to train your mind using these two approaches, we have to look at their fundamental mechanics. While modern secular mindfulness and Biblical meditation (Hagah) both aim to quiet a scattered mind, they achieve it through completely opposite movements: one focuses on emptying, while the other focuses on filling.

Here is how the ancient Hebrew concept of Hagah works and how it contrasts with today’s popular mindfulness practices for building cognitive focus.

The Root of Hagah: Active Rumination

In Western culture, the word "meditation" often conjures images of complete silence, stillness, and clearing the mind of all thoughts. The biblical Hebrew concept is entirely different.

  • The Translation: The Hebrew word הָגָה (Hagah) literally translates to "to mutter," "to growl," "to chew," or "to ruminate."
  • The Imagery: It is famously used in Isaiah 31:4 to describe a young lion growling over its prey. It is also the word-picture of a cow chewing its cud—swallowing food, bringing it back up, and chewing on it again to extract every ounce of nutrient.
  • The Practice: In Joshua 1:8, when God commands Joshua to "meditate (Hagah) on this Book of the Law day and night," he isn't telling him to sit in silent contemplation. He is telling him to under-the-breath mutter, speak, and mentally chew on the text continuously throughout the day so that it shapes his immediate actions.

Hagah vs. Secular Mindfulness: The Core Differences

While both practices strengthen the prefrontal cortex and improve attention regulation, they navigate the internal world through different frameworks:

]]> Garth Heckman

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com

The David Alliance 

To understand how to train your mind using these two approaches, we have to look at their fundamental mechanics. While modern secular mindfulness and Biblical meditation (Hagah) both aim to quiet a scattered mind, they achieve it through completely opposite movements: one focuses on emptying, while the other focuses on filling.

Here is how the ancient Hebrew concept of Hagah works and how it contrasts with today’s popular mindfulness practices for building cognitive focus.

The Root of Hagah: Active Rumination

In Western culture, the word "meditation" often conjures images of complete silence, stillness, and clearing the mind of all thoughts. The biblical Hebrew concept is entirely different.

  • The Translation: The Hebrew word הָגָה (Hagah) literally translates to "to mutter," "to growl," "to chew," or "to ruminate."
  • The Imagery: It is famously used in Isaiah 31:4 to describe a young lion growling over its prey. It is also the word-picture of a cow chewing its cud—swallowing food, bringing it back up, and chewing on it again to extract every ounce of nutrient.
  • The Practice: In Joshua 1:8, when God commands Joshua to "meditate (Hagah) on this Book of the Law day and night," he isn't telling him to sit in silent contemplation. He is telling him to under-the-breath mutter, speak, and mentally chew on the text continuously throughout the day so that it shapes his immediate actions.

Hagah vs. Secular Mindfulness: The Core Differences

While both practices strengthen the prefrontal cortex and improve attention regulation, they navigate the internal world through different frameworks:

]]> Garth Heckman false No 459 1718 full FOCUS vs. Attention FOCUS vs. Attention https://tda.podbean.com/e/focus-vs-attention/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/focus-vs-attention/#comments Mon, 06 Jul 2026 18:05:10 -0500 tda.podbean.com/b6b8a834-ac87-31b6-acc4-d40b3ca7b61c The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@gmail.com

Garth Heckman

The digital world is explicitly engineered to capture and fragment our attention. Dr. Gloria Mark, a leading informatics researcher at the University of California, Irvine, tracked digital behavior and found that the average attention span on a single screen has plummeted from 2.5 minutes in 2004 to just 47 seconds today.

When your focus breaks, it doesn’t just snap back. It takes an average of 23 minutes and 15 seconds to fully return to a deep focus state after a single interruption because your brain gets caught in "intervening tasks."

To train your brain to resist this friction and rebuild sustained focus, apply these three science-backed strategies:

 

 

Yes, absolutely. While the ancient world didn't have smartphones, the human struggle with a scattered mind, anxiety, and competing priorities is timeless. The Bible addresses the concept of focus extensively, using ancient terminology like singleness of heart, guarding the gates of the mind, and fixing one’s eyes.

Scriptural wisdom aligns remarkably well with modern cognitive science, framing focus not just as a productivity tool, but as a discipline of the mind and spirit. Here are three distinct clues and frameworks the Bible provides on how to focus.

1. The Principle of the "Single Eye" (Eliminating Divided Attention)

In the New Testament, Jesus explicitly addresses the danger of a divided mind. The ancient concept of focus was often tied to vision—what you allow your eyes to linger on dictates your internal state.

  • The Scripture: In Luke 11:34, Jesus states: "Your eye is the lamp of your body. When your eyes are healthy [single/focused], your whole body also is full of light. But when they are unhealthy [bad/divided], your body also is full of darkness."
  • The Clue: The original Greek word used for "healthy" or "good" in many translations is haplous, which literally means single, uncomplicated, or unfolded. Conversely, the word for "unhealthy" or "bad" (poneros) in this context implies being double or divided.
  • The Takeaway: The Bible warns that if your vision is fragmented by too many competing inputs, your internal world becomes chaotic. It tells us that true focus requires a single, undivided gaze.

2. Guarding the Gates of the Mind (Active Filtering)

Just as modern psychology tells us to limit notifications to protect our working memory, Biblical wisdom commands us to set up strict boundaries around what we allow into our consciousness.

  • The Scripture: Proverbs 4:25–27 provides direct, actionable instructions on attentional control: "Let your eyes look straight ahead; fix your gaze directly before you. Give careful thought to the paths for your feet and be steadfast in all your ways. Do not turn to the right or the left..."
  • The Clue: This is a classic Stoic-like scriptural command for attentional filtering. The Bible recognizes that distractions ("the right or the left") are constantly pulling at us. Proverbs 4:23 pairs this with the ultimate reason for focus: "Guard your heart with all diligence, for from it flow the springs of life." In ancient Hebrew psychology, the "heart" (lev) represented the mind, will, and intellect.
  • The Takeaway: Focus is a defensive act. You must actively filter out the noise of the periphery to protect the trajectory of your life.

3. Capturing Thought Loops (Taking Cognitive Control)

A major enemy of focus in a digital age is the endless loop of mental chatter, comparison, and anxiety. The New Testament provides a aggressive model for dealing with rogue thoughts rather than letting them run wild.

  • The Scripture: In 2 Corinthians 10:5, Paul writes about the mental discipline required in leadership and faith: "...we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ."
  • The Clue: The phrase "take captive" (aichmalotizo) is a military term meaning to capture at sword-point or take as a prisoner of war.
  • The Takeaway: The Bible instructs us not to be passive consumers of our own thoughts or digital feeds. When a distracting, anxious, or irrelevant thought enters your mind, you are told to arrest it immediately, evaluate it, and intentionally redirect your mental energy back to what matters.

The Ultimate Biblical Focus Filter: If you want a modern-day checklist for what should pass through your attentional filter, Philippians 4:8 lays it out perfectly. It tells us exactly where to anchor a scattered mind:

"...whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things."

]]> The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@gmail.com

Garth Heckman

The digital world is explicitly engineered to capture and fragment our attention. Dr. Gloria Mark, a leading informatics researcher at the University of California, Irvine, tracked digital behavior and found that the average attention span on a single screen has plummeted from 2.5 minutes in 2004 to just 47 seconds today.

When your focus breaks, it doesn’t just snap back. It takes an average of 23 minutes and 15 seconds to fully return to a deep focus state after a single interruption because your brain gets caught in "intervening tasks."

To train your brain to resist this friction and rebuild sustained focus, apply these three science-backed strategies:

 

 

Yes, absolutely. While the ancient world didn't have smartphones, the human struggle with a scattered mind, anxiety, and competing priorities is timeless. The Bible addresses the concept of focus extensively, using ancient terminology like singleness of heart, guarding the gates of the mind, and fixing one’s eyes.

Scriptural wisdom aligns remarkably well with modern cognitive science, framing focus not just as a productivity tool, but as a discipline of the mind and spirit. Here are three distinct clues and frameworks the Bible provides on how to focus.

1. The Principle of the "Single Eye" (Eliminating Divided Attention)

In the New Testament, Jesus explicitly addresses the danger of a divided mind. The ancient concept of focus was often tied to vision—what you allow your eyes to linger on dictates your internal state.

  • The Scripture: In Luke 11:34, Jesus states:
    "Your eye is the lamp of your body. When your eyes are healthy [single/focused], your whole body also is full of light. But when they are unhealthy [bad/divided], your body also is full of darkness."
  • The Clue: The original Greek word used for "healthy" or "good" in many translations is haplous, which literally means single, uncomplicated, or unfolded. Conversely, the word for "unhealthy" or "bad" (poneros) in this context implies being double or divided.
  • The Takeaway: The Bible warns that if your vision is fragmented by too many competing inputs, your internal world becomes chaotic. It tells us that true focus requires a single, undivided gaze.

2. Guarding the Gates of the Mind (Active Filtering)

Just as modern psychology tells us to limit notifications to protect our working memory, Biblical wisdom commands us to set up strict boundaries around what we allow into our consciousness.

  • The Scripture: Proverbs 4:25–27 provides direct, actionable instructions on attentional control:
    "Let your eyes look straight ahead; fix your gaze directly before you. Give careful thought to the paths for your feet and be steadfast in all your ways. Do not turn to the right or the left..."
  • The Clue: This is a classic Stoic-like scriptural command for attentional filtering. The Bible recognizes that distractions ("the right or the left") are constantly pulling at us. Proverbs 4:23 pairs this with the ultimate reason for focus: "Guard your heart with all diligence, for from it flow the springs of life." In ancient Hebrew psychology, the "heart" (lev) represented the mind, will, and intellect.
  • The Takeaway: Focus is a defensive act. You must actively filter out the noise of the periphery to protect the trajectory of your life.

3. Capturing Thought Loops (Taking Cognitive Control)

A major enemy of focus in a digital age is the endless loop of mental chatter, comparison, and anxiety. The New Testament provides a aggressive model for dealing with rogue thoughts rather than letting them run wild.

  • The Scripture: In 2 Corinthians 10:5, Paul writes about the mental discipline required in leadership and faith:
    "...we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ."
  • The Clue: The phrase "take captive" (aichmalotizo) is a military term meaning to capture at sword-point or take as a prisoner of war.
  • The Takeaway: The Bible instructs us not to be passive consumers of our own thoughts or digital feeds. When a distracting, anxious, or irrelevant thought enters your mind, you are told to arrest it immediately, evaluate it, and intentionally redirect your mental energy back to what matters.

The Ultimate Biblical Focus Filter: If you want a modern-day checklist for what should pass through your attentional filter, Philippians 4:8 lays it out perfectly. It tells us exactly where to anchor a scattered mind:

"...whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things."

]]> Garth Heckman false No 462 1717 full Waiting 40 years because of YOU Waiting 40 years because of YOU https://tda.podbean.com/e/waiting-40-years-because-of-you/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/waiting-40-years-because-of-you/#comments Thu, 02 Jul 2026 19:41:51 -0500 tda.podbean.com/e8bd1099-7a1a-3f4c-a879-c7355d766542 Garth Heckman false No 457 1716 full 85 and still killing people! 85 and still killing people! https://tda.podbean.com/e/85-and-still-killing-people/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/85-and-still-killing-people/#comments Wed, 01 Jul 2026 18:45:25 -0500 tda.podbean.com/e95a2bb6-5fef-3efa-87a9-bf0b051a6775 The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com

Garth Heckman

 

Here are ten things most people don't know about the real Colonel Sanders:

1. He was not a military colonel

The title "Colonel" was strictly honorary. It was bestowed upon him twice by the Governor of Kentucky—first in 1935 and again in 1950—as a recognition of his contributions to the state's cuisine. He took the title seriously, though, eventually bleaching his beard white and adopting the iconic string tie and white suit full-time.

 

2. He got into a fatal shootout with a business rival

While running a standard gas station in Corbin, Kentucky, Sanders got into a fierce dispute with Matt Stewart, a rival station owner who kept painting over Sanders' highway signs. When Sanders caught him in the act, a shootout commenced. Stewart shot and killed a Shell gas company executive who was with Sanders. Sanders shot Stewart in the shoulder. Stewart was convicted of murder, effectively eliminating Sanders' local competition.

 

3. He was fired from a dozen different careers first

Before finding success with chicken, Sanders had a chaotic resume. He was a railroad blacksmith, a steam engine stoker, an insurance salesman, a ferry boat operator, and even practiced law in Arkansas. He was ultimately barred from his own legal practice after getting into a physical fistfight with his own client inside the courtroom.

 

4. His first restaurant success was ruined by an interstate highway

By the 1940s, Sanders had built a highly successful physical restaurant and motel concept in Corbin. However, in the early 1950s, a new interstate highway bypassed the town entirely, obliterating his customer traffic. He sold the property at a massive loss, was left broke, and lived off his 105-dollar monthly Social Security check while reinventing his business.

 

5. The pressure cooker was his secret weapon

In the 1930s, pan-frying chicken took about 30 minutes—far too slow for a restaurant service. Deep frying dried it out. When the commercial pressure cooker was invented to cook vegetables, Sanders brilliantly modified it to fry chicken using oil under pressure. This reduced the cook time to just 9 minutes while keeping the meat incredibly juicy.

 

6. He was legendary for his explosive profanity

Despite his grandfatherly appearance, Sanders had a notoriously fiery temper and a mouth like a sailor. He was known to unleash massive, incredibly creative streams of swear words if things weren't done to his standards. He once admitted, "I used to cuss something terrible. I was a master at it.”

 

7. He fiercely sued KFC after selling the company

Sanders sold the American operations of KFC in 1964 for 2 million dollars but stayed on as a brand ambassador. As corporate executives began tweaking the menu to cut costs, Sanders grew furious. He famously went on late-night talk shows calling the new gravy "wallpaper paste" and the chicken "a damn fried dough ball." When he tried to open a competing restaurant named after himself, corporate sued him, and he countersued them for 122 million dollars. They eventually settled out of court.

 

8. He delivered his first child himself

During his early, cash-strapped marriage to his first wife, Josephine, they could not afford a doctor when she went into labor. Sanders successfully delivered his firstborn child himself at home.

 

9. He wore the white wool suit year-round

Once he adopted his famous look, he committed to it entirely. He wore a heavy white wool suit in the winter and a lighter white cotton suit in the summer. He refused to be seen in public wearing anything else for the last 20 years of his life.

 

10. He was a massive philanthropist who gave away his fortune

Because he knew what it was like to be destitute, Sanders spent his later years giving away the vast majority of his wealth. He funded massive scholarships, bought medical equipment for hospitals, and adopted dozens of orphaned children overseas through charities, right up until his death at age 90 in 1980.

 

 

 

 

 

Sermon: Unfinished Business

Text: Joshua 14:6–14

Focus: The life of Caleb

Introduction: The Tragedy of the Settled Life

There is a massive difference between finishing a task and quitting out of exhaustion.

Too many people wrap up their lives, their careers, their callings, and even their faith long before God ever intended them to stop. They settle into a comfortable valley because the mountain looks too steep. They trade their calling for a couch, confusing the end of a season with the end of their purpose.

But the Kingdom of God has no retirement plan. It only has a graduation plan.

 

Dog

Impetuous is an adjective describing someone who acts quickly and impulsively, without thinking carefully about the consequences. It refers to rash, spur-of-the-moment actions often driven by sudden emotion rather than thoughtful planning. In a more literal or literary sense, it can also describe something moving with great force or violence

 

 

Numbers 13: (the first half of this chapter is all true… even the part about the enemies… its all true - But why does God say about their report? 

 

29The Amalekites live in the land of the Negev; the Hittites, Jebusites, and Amorites live in the hill country; and the Canaanites live by the sea and along the Jordan.” 30Then Caleb quieted the people before Moses and said, “We must go up and take possession of the land, for we can certainly conquer it!” 31But the men who had gone up with him replied, “We cannot go up against the people, for they are stronger than we are!”…

 

 

 

How do you maintain that kind of raw, kinetic power after forty-five years of hardship?

 

Numbers 14:24 But my servant Caleb has a different SPIRIT/attitude than the others have. He has remained loyal to me, so I will bring him into the land he explored. His descendants will possess their full share of that land.

 

DIFFERENT = HB Ak-aihr - follower of the Lord, “other mans spirit”

They gave a bad report… it was the truth..

 

STAY HEALTHY… THE BEST IS YET TO COME AND YOU NEED TO BE ABLE TO FIGHT.

]]> The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com

Garth Heckman

 

Here are ten things most people don't know about the real Colonel Sanders:

1. He was not a military colonel

The title "Colonel" was strictly honorary. It was bestowed upon him twice by the Governor of Kentucky—first in 1935 and again in 1950—as a recognition of his contributions to the state's cuisine. He took the title seriously, though, eventually bleaching his beard white and adopting the iconic string tie and white suit full-time.

 

2. He got into a fatal shootout with a business rival

While running a standard gas station in Corbin, Kentucky, Sanders got into a fierce dispute with Matt Stewart, a rival station owner who kept painting over Sanders' highway signs. When Sanders caught him in the act, a shootout commenced. Stewart shot and killed a Shell gas company executive who was with Sanders. Sanders shot Stewart in the shoulder. Stewart was convicted of murder, effectively eliminating Sanders' local competition.

 

3. He was fired from a dozen different careers first

Before finding success with chicken, Sanders had a chaotic resume. He was a railroad blacksmith, a steam engine stoker, an insurance salesman, a ferry boat operator, and even practiced law in Arkansas. He was ultimately barred from his own legal practice after getting into a physical fistfight with his own client inside the courtroom.

 

4. His first restaurant success was ruined by an interstate highway

By the 1940s, Sanders had built a highly successful physical restaurant and motel concept in Corbin. However, in the early 1950s, a new interstate highway bypassed the town entirely, obliterating his customer traffic. He sold the property at a massive loss, was left broke, and lived off his 105-dollar monthly Social Security check while reinventing his business.

 

5. The pressure cooker was his secret weapon

In the 1930s, pan-frying chicken took about 30 minutes—far too slow for a restaurant service. Deep frying dried it out. When the commercial pressure cooker was invented to cook vegetables, Sanders brilliantly modified it to fry chicken using oil under pressure. This reduced the cook time to just 9 minutes while keeping the meat incredibly juicy.

 

6. He was legendary for his explosive profanity

Despite his grandfatherly appearance, Sanders had a notoriously fiery temper and a mouth like a sailor. He was known to unleash massive, incredibly creative streams of swear words if things weren't done to his standards. He once admitted, "I used to cuss something terrible. I was a master at it.”

 

7. He fiercely sued KFC after selling the company

Sanders sold the American operations of KFC in 1964 for 2 million dollars but stayed on as a brand ambassador. As corporate executives began tweaking the menu to cut costs, Sanders grew furious. He famously went on late-night talk shows calling the new gravy "wallpaper paste" and the chicken "a damn fried dough ball." When he tried to open a competing restaurant named after himself, corporate sued him, and he countersued them for 122 million dollars. They eventually settled out of court.

 

8. He delivered his first child himself

During his early, cash-strapped marriage to his first wife, Josephine, they could not afford a doctor when she went into labor. Sanders successfully delivered his firstborn child himself at home.

 

9. He wore the white wool suit year-round

Once he adopted his famous look, he committed to it entirely. He wore a heavy white wool suit in the winter and a lighter white cotton suit in the summer. He refused to be seen in public wearing anything else for the last 20 years of his life.

 

10. He was a massive philanthropist who gave away his fortune

Because he knew what it was like to be destitute, Sanders spent his later years giving away the vast majority of his wealth. He funded massive scholarships, bought medical equipment for hospitals, and adopted dozens of orphaned children overseas through charities, right up until his death at age 90 in 1980.

 

 

 

 

 

Sermon: Unfinished Business

Text: Joshua 14:6–14

Focus: The life of Caleb

Introduction: The Tragedy of the Settled Life

There is a massive difference between finishing a task and quitting out of exhaustion.

Too many people wrap up their lives, their careers, their callings, and even their faith long before God ever intended them to stop. They settle into a comfortable valley because the mountain looks too steep. They trade their calling for a couch, confusing the end of a season with the end of their purpose.

But the Kingdom of God has no retirement plan. It only has a graduation plan.

 

Dog

Impetuous is an adjective describing someone who acts quickly and impulsively, without thinking carefully about the consequences. It refers to rash, spur-of-the-moment actions often driven by sudden emotion rather than thoughtful planning. In a more literal or literary sense, it can also describe something moving with great force or violence

 

 

Numbers 13: (the first half of this chapter is all true… even the part about the enemies… its all true - But why does God say about their report? 

 

29The Amalekites live in the land of the Negev; the Hittites, Jebusites, and Amorites live in the hill country; and the Canaanites live by the sea and along the Jordan.” 30Then Caleb quieted the people before Moses and said, “We must go up and take possession of the land, for we can certainly conquer it!” 31But the men who had gone up with him replied, “We cannot go up against the people, for they are stronger than we are!”…

 

 

 

How do you maintain that kind of raw, kinetic power after forty-five years of hardship?

 

Numbers 14:24 But my servant Caleb has a different SPIRIT/attitude than the others have. He has remained loyal to me, so I will bring him into the land he explored. His descendants will possess their full share of that land.

 

DIFFERENT = HB Ak-aihr - follower of the Lord, “other mans spirit”

They gave a bad report… it was the truth..

 

STAY HEALTHY… THE BEST IS YET TO COME AND YOU NEED TO BE ABLE TO FIGHT.

]]> Garth Heckman false No 483 1715 full Kicked out of the nest... Thank you. Kicked out of the nest... Thank you. https://tda.podbean.com/e/kicked-out-of-the-nest-thank-you/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/kicked-out-of-the-nest-thank-you/#comments Wed, 24 Jun 2026 14:10:39 -0500 tda.podbean.com/6c13c505-9601-3920-9293-bd5aaa40fa99 Garth Heckman

The David Alliance 

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com 

th grade… lets make a snowman… just a huge snowball… we push it up a large hill… lets roll it down and see how fast it can go… Im going to let it roll over me at the bottom… BIG MISTAKE. IT PICKED UP MOMENTUM, SUCKING UP EVERY PIECE OF SNOW IN ITS PATH… FASTER, BIGGER, FASTER, BIGGER…. 

 

 

 

Introduction: God Has Always Been Moving

Momentum. It is the principle that a body in motion tends to stay in motion. 

In physics, it is a law. 

In the kingdom of God, it is a promise. 

 

 

 

God Is the Source of All Momentum

The Spirit Moved First

 

The very opening of Scripture shows us a God in motion:

 

"In the beginning-MOMENTUM- God created-MOMENTUM- the heavens and the earth. Now the earth was formless and empty, darkness was over the surface of the deep, and the Spirit of God was hovering-MOMENTUM- over the waters."  — Genesis 1:1–2

The Hebrew word for 'hovering' is rachaph — it means to flutter, to brood, to move with energy and intention. This is our God. He does not wait passively. He moves first. He initiates. Momentum in the kingdom always begins with Him, not with us.

You did not choose momentum. Momentum chose you.

 

Once the world was formed it was called to multiply and be fruitful = momentum! 

 

 

In him is the momentum… where is his Spirit leading? 

"You yourselves have seen what I did to Egypt, and how I carried you on eagles' wings and brought you to myself."  — Exodus 19:4

 

 

 

WHAT IS GOD SAYING… I BUILT MOMENTUM TO CARRY YOU OUT OF EGYPT.

The build can be hard, the waiting, the build up…

But when they left - they were begged to leave, given treasure, given favor, provided miracles of crossing the red sea! 

 

 

The eagle does not flap its wings furiously — 

it spreads them wide and rides the thermal currents. The question is not: 'How hard am I working?' The question is: 'Am I in alignment with what God is already doing?

 

An eagle will carry its young on its wings after pushing them out of the nest… 

Not only that they will remove the soft lining of the nest to get them to step out… 

IF THEY DON’T THEY WILL PUT THORNS IN THE NEST…

The eaglet will be forced out only then to have the mother fly with it, catch it if need be and teach it to catch the thermal waves of momentum. 

Maybe things are uncomfortable because God is trying to move you into momentum. 

]]> Garth Heckman

The David Alliance 

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com 

th grade… lets make a snowman… just a huge snowball… we push it up a large hill… lets roll it down and see how fast it can go… Im going to let it roll over me at the bottom… BIG MISTAKE. IT PICKED UP MOMENTUM, SUCKING UP EVERY PIECE OF SNOW IN ITS PATH… FASTER, BIGGER, FASTER, BIGGER…. 

 

 

 

Introduction: God Has Always Been Moving

Momentum. It is the principle that a body in motion tends to stay in motion. 

In physics, it is a law. 

In the kingdom of God, it is a promise. 

 

 

 

God Is the Source of All Momentum

The Spirit Moved First

 

The very opening of Scripture shows us a God in motion:

 

"In the beginning-MOMENTUM- God created-MOMENTUM- the heavens and the earth. Now the earth was formless and empty, darkness was over the surface of the deep, and the Spirit of God was hovering-MOMENTUM- over the waters."  — Genesis 1:1–2

The Hebrew word for 'hovering' is rachaph — it means to flutter, to brood, to move with energy and intention. This is our God. He does not wait passively. He moves first. He initiates. Momentum in the kingdom always begins with Him, not with us.

You did not choose momentum. Momentum chose you.

 

Once the world was formed it was called to multiply and be fruitful = momentum! 

 

 

In him is the momentum… where is his Spirit leading? 

"You yourselves have seen what I did to Egypt, and how I carried you on eagles' wings and brought you to myself."  — Exodus 19:4

 

 

 

WHAT IS GOD SAYING… I BUILT MOMENTUM TO CARRY YOU OUT OF EGYPT.

The build can be hard, the waiting, the build up…

But when they left - they were begged to leave, given treasure, given favor, provided miracles of crossing the red sea! 

 

 

The eagle does not flap its wings furiously — 

it spreads them wide and rides the thermal currents. The question is not: 'How hard am I working?' The question is: 'Am I in alignment with what God is already doing?

 

An eagle will carry its young on its wings after pushing them out of the nest… 

Not only that they will remove the soft lining of the nest to get them to step out… 

IF THEY DON’T THEY WILL PUT THORNS IN THE NEST…

The eaglet will be forced out only then to have the mother fly with it, catch it if need be and teach it to catch the thermal waves of momentum. 

Maybe things are uncomfortable because God is trying to move you into momentum. 

]]> Garth Heckman false No 450 1714 full Lucky to be Stupid! Lucky to be Stupid! https://tda.podbean.com/e/lucky-to-be-stupid/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/lucky-to-be-stupid/#comments Thu, 18 Jun 2026 20:08:48 -0500 tda.podbean.com/d8a60638-9075-30c7-ac3c-ded4ecec718f TDA

The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com

 

Corinthians 1:27-29:

"But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. God chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things—and the things that are not—to nullify the things that are, so that no one may boast before him."

 

 

Right after using these three words, Paul caps off his thought in verse 28 with a fascinating Greek phrase: ta mē onta, which literally translates to "the things that are not" or "the non-existent things."

God literally takes people and things that the world treats as if they don't even exist—social ghosts, invisible people, tiny crumbs—and uses them to bring to absolute nothingness (katargeō) the heavy hitters of society.

It is the ultimate biblical paradox: God uses the "morons," the "powerless," and the "nobodies" to rewrite human history.

]]> TDA

The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com

 

Corinthians 1:27-29:

"But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. God chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things—and the things that are not—to nullify the things that are, so that no one may boast before him."

 

 

Right after using these three words, Paul caps off his thought in verse 28 with a fascinating Greek phrase: ta mē onta, which literally translates to "the things that are not" or "the non-existent things."

God literally takes people and things that the world treats as if they don't even exist—social ghosts, invisible people, tiny crumbs—and uses them to bring to absolute nothingness (katargeō) the heavy hitters of society.

It is the ultimate biblical paradox: God uses the "morons," the "powerless," and the "nobodies" to rewrite human history.

]]> Garth Heckman false No 466 1713 full Purpose is Pain Prepared. Purpose is Pain Prepared. https://tda.podbean.com/e/purpose-is-pain-prepared/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/purpose-is-pain-prepared/#comments Wed, 17 Jun 2026 15:06:41 -0500 tda.podbean.com/600d911f-e9ac-32ec-b48a-34ffc8df7071 TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com

The David Alliance

Garth Heckman

Common Patterns Across Preparation for the ultimate purpose.

OR AS I LIKE TO THINK OF IT

WHAT THESE WAVES PRODUCE AS MY FREQUNCY

- Obscurity and delay built character: Long "preparation seasons" stripped self-reliance and taught waiting on God.

- Suffering produced empathy and reliance:

- Skills and context were strategic: God repurposed their vocations/cultures (shepherding, fishing, scholarship, administration, tentmaking) rather than erasing them.

- Failures were not disqualifiers: Denial (Peter), murder plot involvement indirectly (Paul, Paul shouting at the High Priest), family dysfunction (Joseph/David) became part of their testimony.

- Positioning: Experiences placed them exactly where needed (Joseph in Egypt, Daniel in Babylon, Paul on Roman roads, Ruth in Boaz’s field).

- Ultimate purpose was bigger than comfort: Their lives advanced God’s redemptive story—preserving Israel, establishing kingship, prophesying, building the Church, and pointing to Jesus.

 

 

Purpose

Disruption follows purpose. 

ie. God created the earth and sin entered. God calls a person and disruption enters, 

 

If our purpose does not end in people it’s empty of true fulfillment!

 

  1 —  Purpose is simple. It is given to us by God. But is fulfilled thru your gifts, talents, passions, abilities, (these are different waves that create the frequency of your life)

 

 

 

2. Purpose has nothing to do with perfection - but rather in motion - continually moving forward in Gods purpose.

 

3. The sum of your interruptions, roadblocks and daily grind fulfill your purpose more than the grand scheme, dream or goals you achieve.

 

4. "Your unique gifting, passion and quirks were engineered for friction and addiction.

What do I mean?

Your purpose will cause friction for some.

Your Purpose will be your addiction… you can’t give up.

 

Joseph told his brothers his dreams. This wasn’t just a young boys blunder, but a confidence and stubbornness born out of his purpose.

 

 

 

5. "Your purpose might look entirely invisible to the world."

Culture tells us that impact is measured by volume, dollars, visibility, likes and applause. A divine perspective, however, measures weight differently.

 

 

]]> TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com

The David Alliance

Garth Heckman

Common Patterns Across Preparation for the ultimate purpose.

OR AS I LIKE TO THINK OF IT

WHAT THESE WAVES PRODUCE AS MY FREQUNCY

- Obscurity and delay built character: Long "preparation seasons" stripped self-reliance and taught waiting on God.

- Suffering produced empathy and reliance:

- Skills and context were strategic: God repurposed their vocations/cultures (shepherding, fishing, scholarship, administration, tentmaking) rather than erasing them.

- Failures were not disqualifiers: Denial (Peter), murder plot involvement indirectly (Paul, Paul shouting at the High Priest), family dysfunction (Joseph/David) became part of their testimony.

- Positioning: Experiences placed them exactly where needed (Joseph in Egypt, Daniel in Babylon, Paul on Roman roads, Ruth in Boaz’s field).

- Ultimate purpose was bigger than comfort: Their lives advanced God’s redemptive story—preserving Israel, establishing kingship, prophesying, building the Church, and pointing to Jesus.

 

 

Purpose

Disruption follows purpose. 

ie. God created the earth and sin entered. God calls a person and disruption enters, 

 

If our purpose does not end in people it’s empty of true fulfillment!

 

  1 —  Purpose is simple. It is given to us by God. But is fulfilled thru your gifts, talents, passions, abilities, (these are different waves that create the frequency of your life)

 

 

 

2. Purpose has nothing to do with perfection - but rather in motion - continually moving forward in Gods purpose.

 

3. The sum of your interruptions, roadblocks and daily grind fulfill your purpose more than the grand scheme, dream or goals you achieve.

 

4. "Your unique gifting, passion and quirks were engineered for friction and addiction.

What do I mean?

Your purpose will cause friction for some.

Your Purpose will be your addiction… you can’t give up.

 

Joseph told his brothers his dreams. This wasn’t just a young boys blunder, but a confidence and stubbornness born out of his purpose.

 

 

 

5. "Your purpose might look entirely invisible to the world."

Culture tells us that impact is measured by volume, dollars, visibility, likes and applause. A divine perspective, however, measures weight differently.

 

 

]]> Garth Heckman false No 463 1712 full PAST = PURPOSE PAST = PURPOSE https://tda.podbean.com/e/past-purpose/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/past-purpose/#comments Tue, 16 Jun 2026 14:32:04 -0500 tda.podbean.com/288c2cf9-624e-3e68-a984-c5b0e8c424ad The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@gmal.com

Garth Heckman

So what am I talking about today? 

But we get our gifting, our passions our talents and our purpose all confused.

What is what?

Gifting is a natural ability. Athletics, singing, math, Art

Passion is something we love doing. Performing, creating, teaching, playing

Talents are typically something we have practiced to achieve. 

And sometimes these all weave together for the perfect storm. 

 

But none are the sum total of our purpose! 

 

The Bible doesn't give just one single sentence for a person's purpose; 

it unfolds it like a grand narrative with a few core pillars. 

 

OT and NT a person's ultimate purpose is generally broken down into three main relationships: 

  -  your relationship with God, 

  -  your relationship with others, 

  -  and your relationship with the world around you.

 

1. To Know God and Bring Him Glory MGLG

At the very foundation, the Bible states that humans were created by God and for God. Your primary purpose is to be in a relationship with Him and to reflect His character to the world.

 

  • Reflecting His Image: In Genesis 1:27, it says humans are made in the "image of God." Think of this like a mirror—our job is to reflect His love, justice, kindness, and creativity into the world.
  • Bringing Him Glory: MGLG -The prophet Isaiah quotes God as saying, "Everyone who is called by my name, whom I created for my glory, whom I formed and made" (Isaiah 43:7).

BOTTOM LINE: LOOK LIKE GOD AND MAKE HIM LOOK GOOD

 

 

 

2. The Twin Pillars: Love God, Love People

When Jesus was asked what the most important commandment in the entire scripture was, He simplified the entire Old Testament law into two direct actions. This is often looked at as the "Ultimate Summary" of human purpose.

 

MATTHEW 22:37 The first commandment Love the Lord your God with all your heart, mind and spirit. Second greatest is to lover your neighbor as yourself. 

 

 

 

3. Cultivate the World (The Cultural Mandate)

Purpose in the Bible isn't just spiritual; it's also practical and action-oriented. Right at the beginning of the human story, God gave mankind a specific job description regarding the earth itself.

In Genesis 1:28, humans are told to "Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it." This is often called the Cultural Mandate. It means humans are designed to be stewards—caretakers of creation. Your purpose includes taking raw potential (whether that's land, a business, a family, or a talent) and cultivating or literally squeezing everything out of it to help life thrive.

4. Walking in Unique, Prepared Good Works

 

the Apostle Paul writes about how Gods purpose intertwines with our purpose which is good works.  We are uniquely crafted for specific contributions to this world.

 

"For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." — Ephesians 2:10

 

The word used for "handiwork" or "workmanship" in the original Greek text is poiema (where we get our word poem). The Bible views your life as a unique masterpiece designed to carry out specific good deeds that match your exact strengths, personality, and experiences.

Does "Handiwork" Tie into "Good Works"?

Thematically yes, strongly: The verse's logic flows from identity (we are God's crafted masterpiece) to purpose (created for good works God pre-planned). Being God's poiema equips and orients us toward the erga agatha. Good works are the outworking and goal of His creative work in us—not the cause of salvation, but its fruit (tying back to vv. 8–9).

 

Picture this: His work in us, created us for his works through us to fulfill his purpose. 

 

 

Handiwork vs. Good works in Eph. 2:8,9

Two different words.

Gods work is a masterpiece

Our work is a labor.

ONE IS OUR IDENTITY

THE OTHER IS OUR ACTIVITY

 

 

Life experiences we see in scripture and the real world. 

Their life experiences were not random or wasted but formed the precise preparation, character development, skills, relationships, and credibility God used for their callings.** The Bible shows a consistent pattern: God shapes people through seasons of obscurity, suffering, failure, cultural exposure, and incremental faithfulness long before the "big moment." These experiences built humility, dependence on God, specific competencies, empathy, and strategic positioning.

 

 

David (1 Samuel 16 – 2 Samuel)

  • **Key experiences**: Rejected by His father born illegitimate, Shepherd boy overlooked by family, given menial jobs, trials by lion/bear protecting sheep, anointed privately as future king, served Saul as musician/warrior, faced Goliath with past faithfulness as proof, 13 plus years as fugitive hiding in caves from Saul, attracted misfits and losers, forced to work with the Philistines his enemies. 

 

- **How it prepared him**: Learned how to deal with rejection and turn to God. Shepherding taught leadership, courage, and reliance on God (Psalms reflect this). Defeating Goliath came from tested faith in small battles. Wilderness years forged trust in God’s timing (refusing to kill Saul), developed military strategy, and created a loyal following. These equipped him to unite Israel, establish the kingdom, write worship that endures, and prepare the way for the temple/Solomon. His "rejection" years were kingship training.

]]> The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@gmal.com

Garth Heckman

So what am I talking about today? 

But we get our gifting, our passions our talents and our purpose all confused.

What is what?

Gifting is a natural ability. Athletics, singing, math, Art

Passion is something we love doing. Performing, creating, teaching, playing

Talents are typically something we have practiced to achieve. 

And sometimes these all weave together for the perfect storm. 

 

But none are the sum total of our purpose! 

 

The Bible doesn't give just one single sentence for a person's purpose; 

it unfolds it like a grand narrative with a few core pillars. 

 

OT and NT a person's ultimate purpose is generally broken down into three main relationships: 

  -  your relationship with God, 

  -  your relationship with others, 

  -  and your relationship with the world around you.

 

1. To Know God and Bring Him Glory MGLG

At the very foundation, the Bible states that humans were created by God and for God. Your primary purpose is to be in a relationship with Him and to reflect His character to the world.

 

  • Reflecting His Image: In Genesis 1:27, it says humans are made in the "image of God." Think of this like a mirror—our job is to reflect His love, justice, kindness, and creativity into the world.
  • Bringing Him Glory: MGLG -The prophet Isaiah quotes God as saying, "Everyone who is called by my name, whom I created for my glory, whom I formed and made" (Isaiah 43:7).

BOTTOM LINE: LOOK LIKE GOD AND MAKE HIM LOOK GOOD

 

 

 

2. The Twin Pillars: Love God, Love People

When Jesus was asked what the most important commandment in the entire scripture was, He simplified the entire Old Testament law into two direct actions. This is often looked at as the "Ultimate Summary" of human purpose.

 

MATTHEW 22:37 The first commandment Love the Lord your God with all your heart, mind and spirit. Second greatest is to lover your neighbor as yourself. 

 

 

 

3. Cultivate the World (The Cultural Mandate)

Purpose in the Bible isn't just spiritual; it's also practical and action-oriented. Right at the beginning of the human story, God gave mankind a specific job description regarding the earth itself.

In Genesis 1:28, humans are told to "Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it." This is often called the Cultural Mandate. It means humans are designed to be stewards—caretakers of creation. Your purpose includes taking raw potential (whether that's land, a business, a family, or a talent) and cultivating or literally squeezing everything out of it to help life thrive.

4. Walking in Unique, Prepared Good Works

 

the Apostle Paul writes about how Gods purpose intertwines with our purpose which is good works.  We are uniquely crafted for specific contributions to this world.

 

"For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." — Ephesians 2:10

 

The word used for "handiwork" or "workmanship" in the original Greek text is poiema (where we get our word poem). The Bible views your life as a unique masterpiece designed to carry out specific good deeds that match your exact strengths, personality, and experiences.

Does "Handiwork" Tie into "Good Works"?

Thematically yes, strongly: The verse's logic flows from identity (we are God's crafted masterpiece) to purpose (created for good works God pre-planned). Being God's poiema equips and orients us toward the erga agatha. Good works are the outworking and goal of His creative work in us—not the cause of salvation, but its fruit (tying back to vv. 8–9).

 

Picture this: His work in us, created us for his works through us to fulfill his purpose. 

 

 

Handiwork vs. Good works in Eph. 2:8,9

Two different words.

Gods work is a masterpiece

Our work is a labor.

ONE IS OUR IDENTITY

THE OTHER IS OUR ACTIVITY

 

 

Life experiences we see in scripture and the real world. 

Their life experiences were not random or wasted but formed the precise preparation, character development, skills, relationships, and credibility God used for their callings.** The Bible shows a consistent pattern: God shapes people through seasons of obscurity, suffering, failure, cultural exposure, and incremental faithfulness long before the "big moment." These experiences built humility, dependence on God, specific competencies, empathy, and strategic positioning.

 

 

David (1 Samuel 16 – 2 Samuel)

  • **Key experiences**: Rejected by His father born illegitimate, Shepherd boy overlooked by family, given menial jobs, trials by lion/bear protecting sheep, anointed privately as future king, served Saul as musician/warrior, faced Goliath with past faithfulness as proof, 13 plus years as fugitive hiding in caves from Saul, attracted misfits and losers, forced to work with the Philistines his enemies. 

 

- **How it prepared him**: Learned how to deal with rejection and turn to God. Shepherding taught leadership, courage, and reliance on God (Psalms reflect this). Defeating Goliath came from tested faith in small battles. Wilderness years forged trust in God’s timing (refusing to kill Saul), developed military strategy, and created a loyal following. These equipped him to unite Israel, establish the kingdom, write worship that endures, and prepare the way for the temple/Solomon. His "rejection" years were kingship training.

]]> Garth Heckman false No 451 1711 full Purpose is easy... it's the frequency that's sticky! Purpose is easy... it's the frequency that's sticky! https://tda.podbean.com/e/purpose-is-easy-its-the-frequency-thats-sticky/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/purpose-is-easy-its-the-frequency-thats-sticky/#comments Sun, 14 Jun 2026 21:10:14 -0500 tda.podbean.com/87a08f3a-e906-309a-a323-4097c83b0b09 Garth Heckman

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com

The David Alliance 

Can opener

What is it?

How do I use it?

Where do I use it?

Why do I use it? 

 

 

My Natural gifts are leadership, communication, 

        (Preached when I was 14, spoke for Mayor Pawlenty, spoke infant of 20K- never nervous)

My physical gifting is balance, strength, I could skate, ski, snowboard great for a husky kid

My Spiritual gifting is Evangelism, Apostleship, Preaching/teaching, giving

My Soul gifting is creativity, music, poetry - written 100’s songs, books for Hal Leonard

My Mental gifting is prolonged focus, grind, discipline AND AN IDGAF ATTITUDE

These are all waves… but when they tune into the frequency that God has for me it intensifies my life in His purpose. 

 

**BUT HANG 3 PICTURES ON A WALL… NEVER! 

 

 

 

 

Liars club and old show - What’s this for? What is its purpose. David Letterman got his start here… 

 

When I tested in high school it said you should be a professional clown, a comedian or an actor/singer. I guess I’m all three today.

 

I took a test when I was in my late 20’s at a conference. Basically it took questions and pictures of your formative years and helped you weave insight into your gifting…

My Storie board growing up helped me understand that I was doing exactly what I should be doing…

But none of these told me my purpose. 

 

Mark Twain is widely credited with the famous quote: "The two most important days in your life are the day you are born and the day you find out why.

 

a 1970 sermon by the Rev. Ernest T. Campbell at the Riverside Church in New York.

]]> Garth Heckman

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com

The David Alliance 

Can opener

What is it?

How do I use it?

Where do I use it?

Why do I use it? 

 

 

My Natural gifts are leadership, communication, 

        (Preached when I was 14, spoke for Mayor Pawlenty, spoke infant of 20K- never nervous)

My physical gifting is balance, strength, I could skate, ski, snowboard great for a husky kid

My Spiritual gifting is Evangelism, Apostleship, Preaching/teaching, giving

My Soul gifting is creativity, music, poetry - written 100’s songs, books for Hal Leonard

My Mental gifting is prolonged focus, grind, discipline AND AN IDGAF ATTITUDE

These are all waves… but when they tune into the frequency that God has for me it intensifies my life in His purpose. 

 

**BUT HANG 3 PICTURES ON A WALL… NEVER! 

 

 

 

 

Liars club and old show - What’s this for? What is its purpose. David Letterman got his start here… 

 

When I tested in high school it said you should be a professional clown, a comedian or an actor/singer. I guess I’m all three today.

 

I took a test when I was in my late 20’s at a conference. Basically it took questions and pictures of your formative years and helped you weave insight into your gifting…

My Storie board growing up helped me understand that I was doing exactly what I should be doing…

But none of these told me my purpose. 

 

Mark Twain is widely credited with the famous quote: "The two most important days in your life are the day you are born and the day you find out why.

 

a 1970 sermon by the Rev. Ernest T. Campbell at the Riverside Church in New York.

]]> Garth Heckman false No 467 1710 full I don't have a sin problem... and neither do you! I don't have a sin problem... and neither do you! https://tda.podbean.com/e/i-dont-have-a-sin-problem-and-neither-do-you/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/i-dont-have-a-sin-problem-and-neither-do-you/#comments Thu, 11 Jun 2026 19:38:40 -0500 tda.podbean.com/e68e2164-2499-3eaf-907b-08e5caf50f3e Garth Heckman

The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com

Gravity  -  You can’t beat it.

Client lost 265 pounds…

Box jump 2 inches… to 20 inches.

 

You can’t beat gravity… but you can improve.

 

Eph. 3

17 so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, 18 may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, 19 and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God. 20 Now all glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think.

 

Look at the dot of an “I” in your bible.

That is the sun, it holds 1 million earths

Our current earth is the galaxy it lives in

THERE ARE PLANETS OUT IN OTHER GALAXIES THAT ARE BIGGER THAN OUR GALAXY. 

 

 

Paul is essentially praying that his listeners will do the impossible: to intellectually comprehend something that is inherently beyond intellectual comprehension, all so they can be entirely consumed by the divine.

 

He is telling you to try to beat gravity… you won’t but you can experience it greater and greater. 

 

 

A teacher in bible college put it this way… Describe to someone what the ocean is who has never SEEN THE OCEAN AND NEVER experienced anything liquid.

 

 

God calls us to grasp how wide, long, high and deep his love is… knowing we never will fully grasp it. 

 

 

But the attempt is clear: ALWAYS FOCUS ON GODS LOVE FOR US! 

 

 

 

When you focus on Gods love 3 things happen in your life! 

 

 

  - 1. Sin

We don’t have a sin problem, 

we have a knowing God problem.

 

 

Knowing His Supreme love keeps us tender and sinless - think of the time you were most whipped in love. I can. Kim and I were dating and she was in the car leaning forward fiddling with the radio. I was outside standing behind my car filling it up with gas. I looked at my buddy Pele and said can you believe that girl loves me? I literally

could not fathom it… He looked at me in disbelief and said “it makes no sense”. **But what if he then said “how many times do you think she will let you fool around 

with other girls… how many times will she let you smack her around, lie to her, steal from her, gossip about her… etc… I would have had a mental breakdown and sparks shoot from a short circuit in my head… that would make no sense to me. Knowing God’s love keeps us from asking how far can I go in the world...

 

 

Satan will take your sin, your past, your guilt and try to make you feel like a servant.

ITS CALLED SIN CONCIOUS

 

John 14:31 If you love the father you will obey his commandments.

Love God = the fruit is obedience.

 

*if you focus on the commands you will be religious and guilt ridden and sin conscious.

 

 

You will fall into the trap of trying to push yourself away from your sin

Using willpower

Discipline

Rules

Accountability 

 

What did Joseph say when he was tempted by Potiphar’s wife?

He remembers the 7th commandment: Thou shalt not have adultery…

NOPE!  

]]> Garth Heckman

The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com

Gravity  -  You can’t beat it.

Client lost 265 pounds…

Box jump 2 inches… to 20 inches.

 

You can’t beat gravity… but you can improve.

 

Eph. 3

17 so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, 18 may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, 19 and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God. 20 Now all glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think.

 

Look at the dot of an “I” in your bible.

That is the sun, it holds 1 million earths

Our current earth is the galaxy it lives in

THERE ARE PLANETS OUT IN OTHER GALAXIES THAT ARE BIGGER THAN OUR GALAXY. 

 

 

Paul is essentially praying that his listeners will do the impossible: to intellectually comprehend something that is inherently beyond intellectual comprehension, all so they can be entirely consumed by the divine.

 

He is telling you to try to beat gravity… you won’t but you can experience it greater and greater. 

 

 

A teacher in bible college put it this way… Describe to someone what the ocean is who has never SEEN THE OCEAN AND NEVER experienced anything liquid.

 

 

God calls us to grasp how wide, long, high and deep his love is… knowing we never will fully grasp it. 

 

 

But the attempt is clear: ALWAYS FOCUS ON GODS LOVE FOR US! 

 

 

 

When you focus on Gods love 3 things happen in your life! 

 

 

  - 1. Sin

We don’t have a sin problem, 

we have a knowing God problem.

 

 

Knowing His Supreme love keeps us tender and sinless - think of the time you were most whipped in love. I can. Kim and I were dating and she was in the car leaning forward fiddling with the radio. I was outside standing behind my car filling it up with gas. I looked at my buddy Pele and said can you believe that girl loves me? I literally

could not fathom it… He looked at me in disbelief and said “it makes no sense”. **But what if he then said “how many times do you think she will let you fool around 

with other girls… how many times will she let you smack her around, lie to her, steal from her, gossip about her… etc… I would have had a mental breakdown and sparks shoot from a short circuit in my head… that would make no sense to me. Knowing God’s love keeps us from asking how far can I go in the world...

 

 

Satan will take your sin, your past, your guilt and try to make you feel like a servant.

ITS CALLED SIN CONCIOUS

 

John 14:31 If you love the father you will obey his commandments.

Love God = the fruit is obedience.

 

*if you focus on the commands you will be religious and guilt ridden and sin conscious.

 

 

You will fall into the trap of trying to push yourself away from your sin

Using willpower

Discipline

Rules

Accountability 

 

What did Joseph say when he was tempted by Potiphar’s wife?

He remembers the 7th commandment: Thou shalt not have adultery…

NOPE!  

]]> Garth Heckman false No 453 1709 full God says "do the impossible" God says "do the impossible" https://tda.podbean.com/e/god-says-do-the-impossible/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/god-says-do-the-impossible/#comments Wed, 10 Jun 2026 17:04:17 -0500 tda.podbean.com/e5dea389-905d-3d3c-bab8-56643a5f7d6b Garth Heckman

The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com

Gravity  -  You can’t beat it.

Client lost 265 pounds…

Box jump 2 inches… to 20 inches.

 

You can’t beat gravity… but you can improve.

 

Eph. 3

17 so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, 18 may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, 19 and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God. 20 Now all glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think.

 

Look at the dot of an “I” in your bible.

That is the sun, it holds 1 million earths

Our current earth is the galaxy it lives in

THERE ARE PLANETS OUT IN OTHER GALAXIES THAT ARE BIGGER THAN OUR GALAXY. 

 

 

Paul is essentially praying that his listeners will do the impossible: to intellectually comprehend something that is inherently beyond intellectual comprehension, all so they can be entirely consumed by the divine.

 

He is telling you to try to beat gravity… you won’t but you can experience it greater and greater. 

 

 

A teacher in bible college put it this way… Describe to someone what the ocean is who has never SEEN THE OCEAN AND NEVER experienced anything liquid.

 

 

God calls us to grasp how wide, long, high and deep his love is… knowing we never will fully grasp it. 

 

 

But the attempt is clear: ALWAYS FOCUS ON GODS LOVE FOR US! 

]]> Garth Heckman

The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com

Gravity  -  You can’t beat it.

Client lost 265 pounds…

Box jump 2 inches… to 20 inches.

 

You can’t beat gravity… but you can improve.

 

Eph. 3

17 so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, 18 may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, 19 and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God. 20 Now all glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think.

 

Look at the dot of an “I” in your bible.

That is the sun, it holds 1 million earths

Our current earth is the galaxy it lives in

THERE ARE PLANETS OUT IN OTHER GALAXIES THAT ARE BIGGER THAN OUR GALAXY. 

 

 

Paul is essentially praying that his listeners will do the impossible: to intellectually comprehend something that is inherently beyond intellectual comprehension, all so they can be entirely consumed by the divine.

 

He is telling you to try to beat gravity… you won’t but you can experience it greater and greater. 

 

 

A teacher in bible college put it this way… Describe to someone what the ocean is who has never SEEN THE OCEAN AND NEVER experienced anything liquid.

 

 

God calls us to grasp how wide, long, high and deep his love is… knowing we never will fully grasp it. 

 

 

But the attempt is clear: ALWAYS FOCUS ON GODS LOVE FOR US! 

]]> Garth Heckman false No 449 1708 full What Cancer Taught me PT 4 What Cancer Taught me PT 4 https://tda.podbean.com/e/what-cancer-taught-me-pt-4-1780876572/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/what-cancer-taught-me-pt-4-1780876572/#comments Sun, 07 Jun 2026 18:56:12 -0500 tda.podbean.com/1d821d92-8cbb-39a6-bbf0-323def62fd7c TDAgiantslayer@Gmail.com 

The David Alliance

Garth Heckman

Just because cancer sucks doesn’t mean your life has to. 

I have talked openly about my cancer journey before… 3 cancers started in my Colon, spread through my Lymphatic then liver cancer… they said I’d be dead in 2 years with liver cancer. But even though I made it I was left with a brain tumor and an enlarged heart… plus severe neuropathy and hearing loss and a few other goodies… 

But what I kept telling myself was I hope others can learn from my journey… so I just finished 

5 eBooks on my cancer journey. I just listed them on Etsy and Sam cart. If you have questions about cancer for yourself or a friend feel free to hit me up. But with that I want to do a short series on what I learned the hard way from living through the hard way.

 

1. Prayer Becomes a Lifeline, Not a Ritual

Before cancer, prayer can feel like a spiritual discipline — something you do because you should. Cancer strips that away entirely. When you are lying in a clinic chair watching chemicals drip into your veins, prayer stops being a religious exercise and becomes the most honest conversation of your life. You learn to pray with a rawness and desperation that actually draws you closer to God than a thousand comfortable Sunday mornings ever did.

 

2. God Is Present in the Darkness, Not Just the Highlights

It is easy to sense God in the mountaintop moments — the answered prayers, the breakthroughs, the celebrations. Cancer teaches you to find Him in the valley. In the 2am fear. In the waiting room silence. In the moment the doctor walks in with results. You discover that His presence was never limited to the good days — He was always there. You just needed the noise of a comfortable life to be stripped away before you could feel Him.

 

3. Surrender Is Not Weakness — It Is the Bravest Thing You Will Ever Do

The control you thought you had was always an illusion. Cancer simply makes that undeniable. Learning to say "God, I trust You with this" — and actually mean it — is one of the most spiritually mature and courageous acts a human being can perform. You discover that surrender is not giving up. It is giving over — and there is an inexplicable peace that follows that most people never experience until they have no other choice.

 

4. Your Identity Is Not in Your Health, Your Productivity, or Your Role

Cancer has a way of stripping you of everything you used to define yourself — your energy, your independence, your ability to perform and produce. And in that stripping, you are forced to confront a beautiful and terrifying question: Who am I when I can do nothing? The answer God whispers back changes everything. You are not what you do. You are not what you produce. You are deeply, permanently, unconditionally loved — and that is enough.

 

5. The Body of Christ Was Designed for Exactly This

You learn very quickly that you were never meant to walk hard seasons alone. The meals that show up at your door. The friends who sit in silence with you because they don't know what to say but they show up anyway. The stranger in the waiting room who prays with you. Cancer reveals the Church at its absolute best — and you discover that receiving grace from others is just as holy as giving it.

 

6. Eternity Becomes More Real Than Ever Before

When your mortality is no longer an abstract concept but a very present reality, eternity stops being theological and starts being personal. You find yourself thinking about heaven differently — not as a distant idea but as a coming home. Your grip on this world loosens in the most freeing way. The things that used to consume your worry — money, status, opinions of others — begin to look very small against the backdrop of forever.

 

7. Gratitude Goes Deeper Than You Knew Was Possible

You never knew you could be so grateful for a Tuesday. For a cup of coffee. For the sound of someone you love laughing in the next room. Cancer recalibrates your gratitude to a frequency most people never reach. The ordinary becomes sacred. The mundane becomes miraculous. You find yourself thanking God for things you walked past a thousand times without noticing — and that shift in perspective becomes one of the most unexpected gifts of the entire journey.

 

8. God Can Handle Your Anger, Your Doubt, and Your Questions

One of the most liberating spiritual discoveries of the cancer journey is that God is not fragile. He does not flinch when you are angry. He does not withdraw when you have questions He hasn't answered. He does not love you less when your faith feels more like a flickering candle than a raging fire. You learn that honest wrestling with God is not a sign of weak faith — it is actually the evidence of a real relationship. He can handle every hard question you bring to Him.

 

9. Your Suffering Has a Purpose Larger Than You Can See

Romans 8:28 stops being a bumper sticker and becomes a lifeline. You begin to see — sometimes only in hindsight — that nothing in your journey is wasted. The fear you survived gives you the ability to sit with someone else in theirs. The night seasons you endured become the very thing that qualifies you to speak hope into someone who is just entering their own. Your cancer becomes a platform for a ministry only you could carry — because you lived it.

 

10. Death Has Lost Its Sting — and That Changes How You Live

Perhaps the deepest spiritual gift of walking through cancer is coming face to face with your own mortality and discovering on the other side that you are no longer afraid. Not because the journey wasn't hard — it was. But because somewhere in the valley you encountered a God who conquered death Himself, and His resurrection became personal to you in a way it never was before. You come out the other side living differently — more boldly, more lovingly, more freely — because you have settled the deepest question a human soul can face.

 

These ten things are not just lessons — they are a testimony. And your three cancer journeys have given you a depth of spiritual authority on every single one of them that no seminary degree could ever replicate. 💙

]]> TDAgiantslayer@Gmail.com 

The David Alliance

Garth Heckman

Just because cancer sucks doesn’t mean your life has to. 

I have talked openly about my cancer journey before… 3 cancers started in my Colon, spread through my Lymphatic then liver cancer… they said I’d be dead in 2 years with liver cancer. But even though I made it I was left with a brain tumor and an enlarged heart… plus severe neuropathy and hearing loss and a few other goodies… 

But what I kept telling myself was I hope others can learn from my journey… so I just finished 

5 eBooks on my cancer journey. I just listed them on Etsy and Sam cart. If you have questions about cancer for yourself or a friend feel free to hit me up. But with that I want to do a short series on what I learned the hard way from living through the hard way.

 

1. Prayer Becomes a Lifeline, Not a Ritual

Before cancer, prayer can feel like a spiritual discipline — something you do because you should. Cancer strips that away entirely. When you are lying in a clinic chair watching chemicals drip into your veins, prayer stops being a religious exercise and becomes the most honest conversation of your life. You learn to pray with a rawness and desperation that actually draws you closer to God than a thousand comfortable Sunday mornings ever did.

 

2. God Is Present in the Darkness, Not Just the Highlights

It is easy to sense God in the mountaintop moments — the answered prayers, the breakthroughs, the celebrations. Cancer teaches you to find Him in the valley. In the 2am fear. In the waiting room silence. In the moment the doctor walks in with results. You discover that His presence was never limited to the good days — He was always there. You just needed the noise of a comfortable life to be stripped away before you could feel Him.

 

3. Surrender Is Not Weakness — It Is the Bravest Thing You Will Ever Do

The control you thought you had was always an illusion. Cancer simply makes that undeniable. Learning to say "God, I trust You with this" — and actually mean it — is one of the most spiritually mature and courageous acts a human being can perform. You discover that surrender is not giving up. It is giving over — and there is an inexplicable peace that follows that most people never experience until they have no other choice.

 

4. Your Identity Is Not in Your Health, Your Productivity, or Your Role

Cancer has a way of stripping you of everything you used to define yourself — your energy, your independence, your ability to perform and produce. And in that stripping, you are forced to confront a beautiful and terrifying question: Who am I when I can do nothing? The answer God whispers back changes everything. You are not what you do. You are not what you produce. You are deeply, permanently, unconditionally loved — and that is enough.

 

5. The Body of Christ Was Designed for Exactly This

You learn very quickly that you were never meant to walk hard seasons alone. The meals that show up at your door. The friends who sit in silence with you because they don't know what to say but they show up anyway. The stranger in the waiting room who prays with you. Cancer reveals the Church at its absolute best — and you discover that receiving grace from others is just as holy as giving it.

 

6. Eternity Becomes More Real Than Ever Before

When your mortality is no longer an abstract concept but a very present reality, eternity stops being theological and starts being personal. You find yourself thinking about heaven differently — not as a distant idea but as a coming home. Your grip on this world loosens in the most freeing way. The things that used to consume your worry — money, status, opinions of others — begin to look very small against the backdrop of forever.

 

7. Gratitude Goes Deeper Than You Knew Was Possible

You never knew you could be so grateful for a Tuesday. For a cup of coffee. For the sound of someone you love laughing in the next room. Cancer recalibrates your gratitude to a frequency most people never reach. The ordinary becomes sacred. The mundane becomes miraculous. You find yourself thanking God for things you walked past a thousand times without noticing — and that shift in perspective becomes one of the most unexpected gifts of the entire journey.

 

8. God Can Handle Your Anger, Your Doubt, and Your Questions

One of the most liberating spiritual discoveries of the cancer journey is that God is not fragile. He does not flinch when you are angry. He does not withdraw when you have questions He hasn't answered. He does not love you less when your faith feels more like a flickering candle than a raging fire. You learn that honest wrestling with God is not a sign of weak faith — it is actually the evidence of a real relationship. He can handle every hard question you bring to Him.

 

9. Your Suffering Has a Purpose Larger Than You Can See

Romans 8:28 stops being a bumper sticker and becomes a lifeline. You begin to see — sometimes only in hindsight — that nothing in your journey is wasted. The fear you survived gives you the ability to sit with someone else in theirs. The night seasons you endured become the very thing that qualifies you to speak hope into someone who is just entering their own. Your cancer becomes a platform for a ministry only you could carry — because you lived it.

 

10. Death Has Lost Its Sting — and That Changes How You Live

Perhaps the deepest spiritual gift of walking through cancer is coming face to face with your own mortality and discovering on the other side that you are no longer afraid. Not because the journey wasn't hard — it was. But because somewhere in the valley you encountered a God who conquered death Himself, and His resurrection became personal to you in a way it never was before. You come out the other side living differently — more boldly, more lovingly, more freely — because you have settled the deepest question a human soul can face.

 

These ten things are not just lessons — they are a testimony. And your three cancer journeys have given you a depth of spiritual authority on every single one of them that no seminary degree could ever replicate. 💙

]]> Garth Heckman false No 462 1707 full What Cancer Taught me PT 4 What Cancer Taught me PT 4 https://tda.podbean.com/e/what-cancer-taught-me-pt-4/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/what-cancer-taught-me-pt-4/#comments Thu, 04 Jun 2026 19:38:59 -0500 tda.podbean.com/6eef53b6-c689-391d-99ce-c63ebcac9806 TDAgiantslayer@Gmail.com 

The David Alliance

Garth Heckman

Just because cancer sucks doesn’t mean your life has to. 

I have talked openly about my cancer journey before… 3 cancers started in my Colon, spread through my Lymphatic then liver cancer… they said I’d be dead in 2 years with liver cancer. But even though I made it I was left with a brain tumor and an enlarged heart… plus severe neuropathy and hearing loss and a few other goodies… 

But what I kept telling myself was I hope others can learn from my journey… so I just finished 

5 eBooks on my cancer journey. I just listed them on Etsy and Sam cart. If you have questions about cancer for yourself or a friend feel free to hit me up. But with that I want to do a short series on what I learned the hard way from living through the hard way.

 

1. Prayer Becomes a Lifeline, Not a Ritual

Before cancer, prayer can feel like a spiritual discipline — something you do because you should. Cancer strips that away entirely. When you are lying in a clinic chair watching chemicals drip into your veins, prayer stops being a religious exercise and becomes the most honest conversation of your life. You learn to pray with a rawness and desperation that actually draws you closer to God than a thousand comfortable Sunday mornings ever did.

 

2. God Is Present in the Darkness, Not Just the Highlights

It is easy to sense God in the mountaintop moments — the answered prayers, the breakthroughs, the celebrations. Cancer teaches you to find Him in the valley. In the 2am fear. In the waiting room silence. In the moment the doctor walks in with results. You discover that His presence was never limited to the good days — He was always there. You just needed the noise of a comfortable life to be stripped away before you could feel Him.

 

3. Surrender Is Not Weakness — It Is the Bravest Thing You Will Ever Do

The control you thought you had was always an illusion. Cancer simply makes that undeniable. Learning to say "God, I trust You with this" — and actually mean it — is one of the most spiritually mature and courageous acts a human being can perform. You discover that surrender is not giving up. It is giving over — and there is an inexplicable peace that follows that most people never experience until they have no other choice.

 

4. Your Identity Is Not in Your Health, Your Productivity, or Your Role

Cancer has a way of stripping you of everything you used to define yourself — your energy, your independence, your ability to perform and produce. And in that stripping, you are forced to confront a beautiful and terrifying question: Who am I when I can do nothing? The answer God whispers back changes everything. You are not what you do. You are not what you produce. You are deeply, permanently, unconditionally loved — and that is enough.

 

5. The Body of Christ Was Designed for Exactly This

You learn very quickly that you were never meant to walk hard seasons alone. The meals that show up at your door. The friends who sit in silence with you because they don't know what to say but they show up anyway. The stranger in the waiting room who prays with you. Cancer reveals the Church at its absolute best — and you discover that receiving grace from others is just as holy as giving it.

 

6. Eternity Becomes More Real Than Ever Before

When your mortality is no longer an abstract concept but a very present reality, eternity stops being theological and starts being personal. You find yourself thinking about heaven differently — not as a distant idea but as a coming home. Your grip on this world loosens in the most freeing way. The things that used to consume your worry — money, status, opinions of others — begin to look very small against the backdrop of forever.

 

7. Gratitude Goes Deeper Than You Knew Was Possible

You never knew you could be so grateful for a Tuesday. For a cup of coffee. For the sound of someone you love laughing in the next room. Cancer recalibrates your gratitude to a frequency most people never reach. The ordinary becomes sacred. The mundane becomes miraculous. You find yourself thanking God for things you walked past a thousand times without noticing — and that shift in perspective becomes one of the most unexpected gifts of the entire journey.

 

8. God Can Handle Your Anger, Your Doubt, and Your Questions

One of the most liberating spiritual discoveries of the cancer journey is that God is not fragile. He does not flinch when you are angry. He does not withdraw when you have questions He hasn't answered. He does not love you less when your faith feels more like a flickering candle than a raging fire. You learn that honest wrestling with God is not a sign of weak faith — it is actually the evidence of a real relationship. He can handle every hard question you bring to Him.

 

9. Your Suffering Has a Purpose Larger Than You Can See

Romans 8:28 stops being a bumper sticker and becomes a lifeline. You begin to see — sometimes only in hindsight — that nothing in your journey is wasted. The fear you survived gives you the ability to sit with someone else in theirs. The night seasons you endured become the very thing that qualifies you to speak hope into someone who is just entering their own. Your cancer becomes a platform for a ministry only you could carry — because you lived it.

]]> TDAgiantslayer@Gmail.com 

The David Alliance

Garth Heckman

Just because cancer sucks doesn’t mean your life has to. 

I have talked openly about my cancer journey before… 3 cancers started in my Colon, spread through my Lymphatic then liver cancer… they said I’d be dead in 2 years with liver cancer. But even though I made it I was left with a brain tumor and an enlarged heart… plus severe neuropathy and hearing loss and a few other goodies… 

But what I kept telling myself was I hope others can learn from my journey… so I just finished 

5 eBooks on my cancer journey. I just listed them on Etsy and Sam cart. If you have questions about cancer for yourself or a friend feel free to hit me up. But with that I want to do a short series on what I learned the hard way from living through the hard way.

 

1. Prayer Becomes a Lifeline, Not a Ritual

Before cancer, prayer can feel like a spiritual discipline — something you do because you should. Cancer strips that away entirely. When you are lying in a clinic chair watching chemicals drip into your veins, prayer stops being a religious exercise and becomes the most honest conversation of your life. You learn to pray with a rawness and desperation that actually draws you closer to God than a thousand comfortable Sunday mornings ever did.

 

2. God Is Present in the Darkness, Not Just the Highlights

It is easy to sense God in the mountaintop moments — the answered prayers, the breakthroughs, the celebrations. Cancer teaches you to find Him in the valley. In the 2am fear. In the waiting room silence. In the moment the doctor walks in with results. You discover that His presence was never limited to the good days — He was always there. You just needed the noise of a comfortable life to be stripped away before you could feel Him.

 

3. Surrender Is Not Weakness — It Is the Bravest Thing You Will Ever Do

The control you thought you had was always an illusion. Cancer simply makes that undeniable. Learning to say "God, I trust You with this" — and actually mean it — is one of the most spiritually mature and courageous acts a human being can perform. You discover that surrender is not giving up. It is giving over — and there is an inexplicable peace that follows that most people never experience until they have no other choice.

 

4. Your Identity Is Not in Your Health, Your Productivity, or Your Role

Cancer has a way of stripping you of everything you used to define yourself — your energy, your independence, your ability to perform and produce. And in that stripping, you are forced to confront a beautiful and terrifying question: Who am I when I can do nothing? The answer God whispers back changes everything. You are not what you do. You are not what you produce. You are deeply, permanently, unconditionally loved — and that is enough.

 

5. The Body of Christ Was Designed for Exactly This

You learn very quickly that you were never meant to walk hard seasons alone. The meals that show up at your door. The friends who sit in silence with you because they don't know what to say but they show up anyway. The stranger in the waiting room who prays with you. Cancer reveals the Church at its absolute best — and you discover that receiving grace from others is just as holy as giving it.

 

6. Eternity Becomes More Real Than Ever Before

When your mortality is no longer an abstract concept but a very present reality, eternity stops being theological and starts being personal. You find yourself thinking about heaven differently — not as a distant idea but as a coming home. Your grip on this world loosens in the most freeing way. The things that used to consume your worry — money, status, opinions of others — begin to look very small against the backdrop of forever.

 

7. Gratitude Goes Deeper Than You Knew Was Possible

You never knew you could be so grateful for a Tuesday. For a cup of coffee. For the sound of someone you love laughing in the next room. Cancer recalibrates your gratitude to a frequency most people never reach. The ordinary becomes sacred. The mundane becomes miraculous. You find yourself thanking God for things you walked past a thousand times without noticing — and that shift in perspective becomes one of the most unexpected gifts of the entire journey.

 

8. God Can Handle Your Anger, Your Doubt, and Your Questions

One of the most liberating spiritual discoveries of the cancer journey is that God is not fragile. He does not flinch when you are angry. He does not withdraw when you have questions He hasn't answered. He does not love you less when your faith feels more like a flickering candle than a raging fire. You learn that honest wrestling with God is not a sign of weak faith — it is actually the evidence of a real relationship. He can handle every hard question you bring to Him.

 

9. Your Suffering Has a Purpose Larger Than You Can See

Romans 8:28 stops being a bumper sticker and becomes a lifeline. You begin to see — sometimes only in hindsight — that nothing in your journey is wasted. The fear you survived gives you the ability to sit with someone else in theirs. The night seasons you endured become the very thing that qualifies you to speak hope into someone who is just entering their own. Your cancer becomes a platform for a ministry only you could carry — because you lived it.

]]> Garth Heckman false No 462 1706 full What Cancer taught me PT. 2 What Cancer taught me PT. 2 https://tda.podbean.com/e/what-cancer-taught-me-pt-2/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/what-cancer-taught-me-pt-2/#comments Wed, 03 Jun 2026 16:20:50 -0500 tda.podbean.com/9a12caa1-6acd-39cf-91a3-997d9944fa1b TDAgiantslayer@Gmail.com 

The David Alliance

Garth Heckman

Just because cancer sucks doesn’t mean your life has to. 

I have talked openly about my cancer journey before… 3 cancers started in my Colon, spread through my Lymphatic then liver cancer… they said I’d be dead in 2 years with liver cancer. But even though I made it I was left with a brain tumor and an enlarged heart… plus severe neuropathy and hearing loss and a few other goodies… 

But what I kept telling myself was I hope others can learn from my journey… so I just finished 

5 eBooks on my cancer journey. I just listed them on Etsy and Sam cart. If you have questions about cancer for yourself or a friend feel free to hit me up. But with that I want to do a short series on what I learned the hard way from living through the hard way.

 

1. Prayer Becomes a Lifeline, Not a Ritual

Before cancer, prayer can feel like a spiritual discipline — something you do because you should. Cancer strips that away entirely. When you are lying in a clinic chair watching chemicals drip into your veins, prayer stops being a religious exercise and becomes the most honest conversation of your life. You learn to pray with a rawness and desperation that actually draws you closer to God than a thousand comfortable Sunday mornings ever did.

 

2. God Is Present in the Darkness, Not Just the Highlights

It is easy to sense God in the mountaintop moments — the answered prayers, the breakthroughs, the celebrations. Cancer teaches you to find Him in the valley. In the 2am fear. In the waiting room silence. In the moment the doctor walks in with results. You discover that His presence was never limited to the good days — He was always there. You just needed the noise of a comfortable life to be stripped away before you could feel Him.

 

3. Surrender Is Not Weakness — It Is the Bravest Thing You Will Ever Do

The control you thought you had was always an illusion. Cancer simply makes that undeniable. Learning to say "God, I trust You with this" — and actually mean it — is one of the most spiritually mature and courageous acts a human being can perform. You discover that surrender is not giving up. It is giving over — and there is an inexplicable peace that follows that most people never experience until they have no other choice.

 

4. Your Identity Is Not in Your Health, Your Productivity, or Your Role

Cancer has a way of stripping you of everything you used to define yourself — your energy, your independence, your ability to perform and produce. And in that stripping, you are forced to confront a beautiful and terrifying question: Who am I when I can do nothing? The answer God whispers back changes everything. You are not what you do. You are not what you produce. You are deeply, permanently, unconditionally loved — and that is enough.

 

5. The Body of Christ Was Designed for Exactly This

You learn very quickly that you were never meant to walk hard seasons alone. The meals that show up at your door. The friends who sit in silence with you because they don't know what to say but they show up anyway. The stranger in the waiting room who prays with you. Cancer reveals the Church at its absolute best — and you discover that receiving grace from others is just as holy as giving it.

 

6. Eternity Becomes More Real Than Ever Before

When your mortality is no longer an abstract concept but a very present reality, eternity stops being theological and starts being personal. You find yourself thinking about heaven differently — not as a distant idea but as a coming home. Your grip on this world loosens in the most freeing way. The things that used to consume your worry — money, status, opinions of others — begin to look very small against the backdrop of forever.

]]> TDAgiantslayer@Gmail.com 

The David Alliance

Garth Heckman

Just because cancer sucks doesn’t mean your life has to. 

I have talked openly about my cancer journey before… 3 cancers started in my Colon, spread through my Lymphatic then liver cancer… they said I’d be dead in 2 years with liver cancer. But even though I made it I was left with a brain tumor and an enlarged heart… plus severe neuropathy and hearing loss and a few other goodies… 

But what I kept telling myself was I hope others can learn from my journey… so I just finished 

5 eBooks on my cancer journey. I just listed them on Etsy and Sam cart. If you have questions about cancer for yourself or a friend feel free to hit me up. But with that I want to do a short series on what I learned the hard way from living through the hard way.

 

1. Prayer Becomes a Lifeline, Not a Ritual

Before cancer, prayer can feel like a spiritual discipline — something you do because you should. Cancer strips that away entirely. When you are lying in a clinic chair watching chemicals drip into your veins, prayer stops being a religious exercise and becomes the most honest conversation of your life. You learn to pray with a rawness and desperation that actually draws you closer to God than a thousand comfortable Sunday mornings ever did.

 

2. God Is Present in the Darkness, Not Just the Highlights

It is easy to sense God in the mountaintop moments — the answered prayers, the breakthroughs, the celebrations. Cancer teaches you to find Him in the valley. In the 2am fear. In the waiting room silence. In the moment the doctor walks in with results. You discover that His presence was never limited to the good days — He was always there. You just needed the noise of a comfortable life to be stripped away before you could feel Him.

 

3. Surrender Is Not Weakness — It Is the Bravest Thing You Will Ever Do

The control you thought you had was always an illusion. Cancer simply makes that undeniable. Learning to say "God, I trust You with this" — and actually mean it — is one of the most spiritually mature and courageous acts a human being can perform. You discover that surrender is not giving up. It is giving over — and there is an inexplicable peace that follows that most people never experience until they have no other choice.

 

4. Your Identity Is Not in Your Health, Your Productivity, or Your Role

Cancer has a way of stripping you of everything you used to define yourself — your energy, your independence, your ability to perform and produce. And in that stripping, you are forced to confront a beautiful and terrifying question: Who am I when I can do nothing? The answer God whispers back changes everything. You are not what you do. You are not what you produce. You are deeply, permanently, unconditionally loved — and that is enough.

 

5. The Body of Christ Was Designed for Exactly This

You learn very quickly that you were never meant to walk hard seasons alone. The meals that show up at your door. The friends who sit in silence with you because they don't know what to say but they show up anyway. The stranger in the waiting room who prays with you. Cancer reveals the Church at its absolute best — and you discover that receiving grace from others is just as holy as giving it.

 

6. Eternity Becomes More Real Than Ever Before

When your mortality is no longer an abstract concept but a very present reality, eternity stops being theological and starts being personal. You find yourself thinking about heaven differently — not as a distant idea but as a coming home. Your grip on this world loosens in the most freeing way. The things that used to consume your worry — money, status, opinions of others — begin to look very small against the backdrop of forever.

]]> Garth Heckman false No 462 1705 full 3 Cancers - I'm still standing. PT1 3 Cancers - I'm still standing. PT1 https://tda.podbean.com/e/3-cancers-im-still-standing-pt1/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/3-cancers-im-still-standing-pt1/#comments Thu, 28 May 2026 22:44:25 -0500 tda.podbean.com/679079c0-41e5-3ec2-856b-93210df60c9c TDAgiantslayer@Gmail.com 

The David Alliance

Garth Heckman

Books available here: 

https://garthheckman.mysamcart.com/the-faith-based-cancer-manual/#

 

I have talked openly about my cancer journey before… 3 cancers started in my Colon, spread through my Lymphatic then liver cancer… they said I’d be dead in 2 years with liver cancer. But even though I made it I was left with a brain tumor and an enlarged heart… plus severe neuropathy and hearing loss and a few other goodies… 

But what I kept telling myself was I hope others can learn from my journey… so I just finished 

5 eBooks on my cancer journey. I just listed them on Etsy and Sam cart. If you have questions about cancer for yourself or a friend feel free to hit me up. But with that I want to do a short series on what I learned the hard way from living through the hard way.

 

1. Prayer Becomes a Lifeline, Not a Ritual

Before cancer, prayer can feel like a spiritual discipline — something you do because you should. Cancer strips that away entirely. When you are lying in a clinic chair watching chemicals drip into your veins, prayer stops being a religious exercise and becomes the most honest conversation of your life. You learn to pray with a rawness and desperation that actually draws you closer to God than a thousand comfortable Sunday mornings ever did.

 

2. God Is Present in the Darkness, Not Just the Highlights

It is easy to sense God in the mountaintop moments — the answered prayers, the breakthroughs, the celebrations. Cancer teaches you to find Him in the valley. In the 2am fear. In the waiting room silence. In the moment the doctor walks in with results. You discover that His presence was never limited to the good days — He was always there. You just needed the noise of a comfortable life to be stripped away before you could feel Him.

 

3. Surrender Is Not Weakness — It Is the Bravest Thing You Will Ever Do

The control you thought you had was always an illusion. Cancer simply makes that undeniable. Learning to say "God, I trust You with this" — and actually mean it — is one of the most spiritually mature and courageous acts a human being can perform. You discover that surrender is not giving up. It is giving over — and there is an inexplicable peace that follows that most people never experience until they have no other choice.

]]> TDAgiantslayer@Gmail.com 

The David Alliance

Garth Heckman

Books available here: 

https://garthheckman.mysamcart.com/the-faith-based-cancer-manual/#

 

I have talked openly about my cancer journey before… 3 cancers started in my Colon, spread through my Lymphatic then liver cancer… they said I’d be dead in 2 years with liver cancer. But even though I made it I was left with a brain tumor and an enlarged heart… plus severe neuropathy and hearing loss and a few other goodies… 

But what I kept telling myself was I hope others can learn from my journey… so I just finished 

5 eBooks on my cancer journey. I just listed them on Etsy and Sam cart. If you have questions about cancer for yourself or a friend feel free to hit me up. But with that I want to do a short series on what I learned the hard way from living through the hard way.

 

1. Prayer Becomes a Lifeline, Not a Ritual

Before cancer, prayer can feel like a spiritual discipline — something you do because you should. Cancer strips that away entirely. When you are lying in a clinic chair watching chemicals drip into your veins, prayer stops being a religious exercise and becomes the most honest conversation of your life. You learn to pray with a rawness and desperation that actually draws you closer to God than a thousand comfortable Sunday mornings ever did.

 

2. God Is Present in the Darkness, Not Just the Highlights

It is easy to sense God in the mountaintop moments — the answered prayers, the breakthroughs, the celebrations. Cancer teaches you to find Him in the valley. In the 2am fear. In the waiting room silence. In the moment the doctor walks in with results. You discover that His presence was never limited to the good days — He was always there. You just needed the noise of a comfortable life to be stripped away before you could feel Him.

 

3. Surrender Is Not Weakness — It Is the Bravest Thing You Will Ever Do

The control you thought you had was always an illusion. Cancer simply makes that undeniable. Learning to say "God, I trust You with this" — and actually mean it — is one of the most spiritually mature and courageous acts a human being can perform. You discover that surrender is not giving up. It is giving over — and there is an inexplicable peace that follows that most people never experience until they have no other choice.

]]> Garth Heckman false No 465 1704 full Garth, Grath, Girth, Garreth, Barf... what's my name? Garth, Grath, Girth, Garreth, Barf... what's my name? https://tda.podbean.com/e/garth-grath-girth-garreth-barf-whats-my-name/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/garth-grath-girth-garreth-barf-whats-my-name/#comments Wed, 27 May 2026 19:10:38 -0500 tda.podbean.com/c359df9f-1dec-3444-a5ff-d8e2051bd851 The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com

Garth Heckman

VERY FAMILIAR STORY -  

*TIED TO MY NOTES TODAY

 

THE BUILD UP and DEMISE OF ISRAEL 

 

THE PEOPLE WANTED A MAN OVER GOD (They wanted a King)… Here is an old quote: when more than one votes… you can assure its the wrong decision.

It wasn’t a King that was truly the problem - 

BUT RATHER following a man, that was the problem. It was the peoples desire to follow a King over a prophet who followed God.

     ***No one voted a prophet in.

        ****People choose a King, God chooses a prophet. 

 

Saul offers false sacrifices

Saul chooses to disobey Gods orders to wipe out the Amakalites 

Saul becomes erratic and tormented by demonic spirits 

Saul now operates out of fear

 *Israel and the army now saw their enemies the way their leader did - IN FEAR.

 

The battle of David and Goliath was never really about David and Goliath. It was the culmination of Israel's spiritual decline under Saul, and the first visible sign that God had already been at work preparing a different kind of leader — one after His own heart.

 

 

 

1 Samuel 17

41 Goliath walked out toward David with his shield bearer ahead of him, 42 sneering in contempt at this ruddy-faced boy. 43 “Am I a dog,” he roared at David, “that you come at me with a stick?” And he cursed David by the names of his gods. 44 “Come over here, and I’ll give your flesh to the birds and wild animals!” Goliath yelled.

45 David replied to the Philistine, “You come to me with sword, spear, and javelin, but I come to you in the name of the Lord of Heaven’s Armies—the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied. 46 Today the Lord will conquer you, and I will kill you and cut off your head. And then I will give the dead bodies of your men to the birds and wild animals, and the whole world will know that there is a God in Israel! 47 And everyone assembled here will know that the Lord rescues his people, but not with sword and spear. This is the Lord’s battle, and he will give you to us!”

 

 

David's arrival on the battlefield was jarring precisely because of the contrast. He was young, unarmored, and inexperienced — but he carried something the entire army had lost: a reference point for who God was.

 

 

 

 

David doesn’t call out the enemy, he calls out his tactics… His weapons of choice. 

WHY? 

 

 

In 1 Samuel 17:45, David identifies a three-fold physical threat. 

In John 10:10, Jesus identifies a three-fold spiritual threat. They map onto each other in a way that shows how the enemy operates:

 

| Goliath’s Arsenal (1 Samuel 17:45) | The Thief’s Mission (John 10:10) | The Spiritual Parallel 

  -  The Sword.  |  To Steal   | Goliath relied on his sword to strip Israel of their land, their freedom, and their identity. The enemy wants to rob you of your peace and purpose. 

 

The Spear.  |   To Kill | A spear is designed for a direct, fatal strike. Goliath’s   Literal goal was to end David’s life; the thief's goal is total spiritual death.

 

The Javelin   |   To Destroy   |  A javelin is thrown from a distance, bringing unexpected, widespread ruin. The enemy aims for complete devastation of your life and relationships. 

 

The Core Contrast: Flesh vs. Spirit

The real tie-in between these two passages is the **source of victory** that both David and Jesus point to. Both stories set up a stark contrast between reliance on worldly power and reliance on divine power.

 

 * **David’s Answer:** Right after naming Goliath's weapons, David says, *"But I come to you in the name of the Lord of Hosts."* He acknowledges the physical threat but completely bypasses it by relying on God's authority.

 

 * **Jesus’ Answer:** Right after naming the thief's three-fold threat, Jesus says, *"I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly."*

 

 

Bears and Lions can’t call you out. They can’t mock you, cast verbal jabs and doubt at you. 

 

 

Historical Context

His defiance of Israel's armies was also a taunt against their God. Your problems, issues, fears, is a taunt against God!

 

Goliath's relys on human technology, political position and physical power.

 

David invokes God's character and power, not his own resources. This echoes the idea that God's name represents His active intervention (similar to Exodus 3 or the Psalms).

 

 

It wasn’t the weapon David had it was the Worship. 

Slingers were common;

  -  Tribe of Benjamin 700 warriors ambidextrous 

      -    Sling a stone up to 95 MPH

             -   At over 200 yards… 

They were so confident they would inscribe words on their stones… MINE WOULD BE “ROCK ON”

 

 

 David contrasts Goliath's weapons with the invisible but superior heavenly host. This title appears frequently in prophetic books but here underscores early recognition of God's military sovereignty.

"Whom you have defied [cheraf-ta]": The verb charaf means to reproach, taunt, or blaspheme. Goliath's challenge is personal against Israel's God, making this a theological battle, not just military.

YOUR PROBLEMS ARE A THEOLOGICAL PROBLEM… 

i.e. Your problems are a “who is your God Problem”

 

 

 

Do you know who my father is?

  - a. No

  - b. Yes and I don’t care

  - c. Yes and I will leave you alone

BUT WHAT IF THE QUESTION WAS THIS IN THAT SITUATION… “I wonder who my father is?”

 

 

Jehovah Jireh (יְהוָה יִרְאֶה) "The LORD will provide" — revealed when God provided a ram as Abraham was about to sacrifice Isaac. Genesis 22:14.

Jehovah Rapha (יְהוָה רָפָא) "The LORD who heals" — revealed after God sweetened the bitter waters of Marah for Israel in the wilderness. Exodus 15:26. Covers physical, emotional, and spiritual healing.

Jehovah Nissi (יְהוָה נִסִּי) "The LORD is my banner" — declared by Moses after Israel's victory over the Amalekites. A banner was a military standard — the rallying point in battle. Exodus 17:15. God Himself is the flag Israel fights under.

Jehovah Shalom (יְהוָה שָׁלוֹם) "The LORD is peace" — spoken by Gideon after encountering the angel of the Lord and fearing he would die. Shalom is not just the absence of conflict but wholeness, completeness, and flourishing. Judges 6:24.

Jehovah Rohi (יְהוָה רֹעִי) "The LORD is my shepherd" — the opening of Psalm 23. One of the most intimate names — depicting God as the one who leads, feeds, protects, and restores.

Jehovah Tsidkenu (יְהוָה צִדְקֵנוּ) "The LORD our righteousness" — a prophetic name pointing to the coming Messiah who would be the righteousness of His people. Jeremiah 23:6. Deeply connected to the New Testament doctrine of justification.

Jehovah Shammah (יְהוָה שָׁמָּה) "The LORD is there" — the name given to the restored Jerusalem in Ezekiel's vision. Ezekiel 48:35. God's presence dwelling permanently with His people — echoed in Revelation 21 with the New Jerusalem.

Jehovah Sabaoth (יְהוָה צְבָאוֹת) "The LORD of Hosts" or "The LORD of Armies" — one of the most frequently used names in the prophets. It pictures God as the commander of vast heavenly armies. Used powerfully in Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Malachi.

Jehovah Mekoddishkem (יְהוָה מְקַדִּשְׁכֶם) "The LORD who sanctifies you" — Exodus 31:13. God as the one who sets His people apart and makes them holy. Sanctification as His work, not ours alone.

Jehovah Gmolah (יְהוָה גְּמֻלּוֹת) "The LORD of recompense" or "The God of vengeance" — Jeremiah 51:56. God as the one who repays — both in justice against enemies and in vindication of His people.

 

The Compound El Names

El Shaddai (אֵל שַׁדַּי) "God Almighty" or literally "God of the mountains" or "the all-sufficient one." First used with Abraham in Genesis 17:1 when God renewed His covenant. It speaks of God's absolute sufficiency — He is enough for every need.

El Elyon (אֵל עֶלְיוֹן) "God Most High" — used by Melchizedek blessing Abraham in Genesis 14. It emphasizes God's supremacy above all other powers, rulers, and so-called gods.

El Olam (אֵל עוֹלָם) "The Everlasting God" or "God of eternity" — Genesis 21:33. He has no beginning and no end. Time exists within Him, not the other way around.

El Roi (אֵל רֳאִי) "The God who sees me" — spoken by Hagar in the wilderness after she fled from Sarah. Genesis 16:13. One of the most tender names — God seeing the forgotten, the marginalized, the one who thinks they are invisible.

El Gibhor (אֵל גִּבּוֹר) "Mighty God" — Isaiah 9:6, in the famous messianic prophecy. One of the titles given to the coming Messiah — pointing directly to Christ.

El Hannun (אֵל חַנּוּן) "The gracious God" — Nehemiah 9:31. God whose grace prevents Him from completely destroying even a rebellious people.

 

New Testament 

Abba (אַבָּא) "Father" — an Aramaic term of deep intimacy, closer to "Daddy" than formal address. Jesus used it in Gethsemane. Paul says believers are given the Spirit of adoption by which they cry "Abba, Father." Romans 8:15.

Emmanuel (עִמָּנוּאֵל) "God with us" — Isaiah 7:14, fulfilled in Matthew 1:23 with the birth of Jesus. Perhaps the most staggering name of all — the eternal God choosing to be with humanity in flesh.

 

 

Why This Matters

Each name was not invented by theologians — it was revealed in a moment. 

God didn't introduce Himself as Jehovah Rapha in a lecture. He revealed it when Israel was thirsty and the water was bitter. He revealed Jehovah Jireh when a father was about to lose his son on an altar.

The pattern is consistent throughout Scripture:

Every name of God was born out of a human crisis that God personally entered.

That means the names are not just theological categories — they are a record of God showing up. And for anyone studying or teaching these names, the invitation is not just to know them but to discover which name corresponds to the specific place of need you are standing in right now.

 

 

 

Lets end on this:  1 Sam. 17:40

40 He picked up five smooth stones from a stream and put them into his shepherd’s bag. Then, armed only with his shepherd’s staff and sling, he started across the valley to fight the Philistine.

WHY FIVE STONES?

Because Goliath had 4 brothers! 

Ishbi-Benob, Saph, Lahmi AND SIX FINGER FRANK

 

 

…THERE WILL ALWAYS BE GIANTS…

But who is your God?

He is the one who crushed satans head and gives us the victory! 

 

CALL ON HIS NAME AND HE SHALL ANSWER. 

]]> The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com

Garth Heckman

VERY FAMILIAR STORY -  

*TIED TO MY NOTES TODAY

 

THE BUILD UP and DEMISE OF ISRAEL 

 

THE PEOPLE WANTED A MAN OVER GOD (They wanted a King)… Here is an old quote: when more than one votes… you can assure its the wrong decision.

It wasn’t a King that was truly the problem - 

BUT RATHER following a man, that was the problem. It was the peoples desire to follow a King over a prophet who followed God.

     ***No one voted a prophet in.

        ****People choose a King, God chooses a prophet. 

 

Saul offers false sacrifices

Saul chooses to disobey Gods orders to wipe out the Amakalites 

Saul becomes erratic and tormented by demonic spirits 

Saul now operates out of fear

 *Israel and the army now saw their enemies the way their leader did - IN FEAR.

 

The battle of David and Goliath was never really about David and Goliath. It was the culmination of Israel's spiritual decline under Saul, and the first visible sign that God had already been at work preparing a different kind of leader — one after His own heart.

 

 

 

1 Samuel 17

41 Goliath walked out toward David with his shield bearer ahead of him, 42 sneering in contempt at this ruddy-faced boy. 43 “Am I a dog,” he roared at David, “that you come at me with a stick?” And he cursed David by the names of his gods. 44 “Come over here, and I’ll give your flesh to the birds and wild animals!” Goliath yelled.

45 David replied to the Philistine, “You come to me with sword, spear, and javelin, but I come to you in the name of the Lord of Heaven’s Armies—the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied. 46 Today the Lord will conquer you, and I will kill you and cut off your head. And then I will give the dead bodies of your men to the birds and wild animals, and the whole world will know that there is a God in Israel! 47 And everyone assembled here will know that the Lord rescues his people, but not with sword and spear. This is the Lord’s battle, and he will give you to us!”

 

 

David's arrival on the battlefield was jarring precisely because of the contrast. He was young, unarmored, and inexperienced — but he carried something the entire army had lost: a reference point for who God was.

 

 

 

 

David doesn’t call out the enemy, he calls out his tactics… His weapons of choice. 

WHY? 

 

 

In 1 Samuel 17:45, David identifies a three-fold physical threat. 

In John 10:10, Jesus identifies a three-fold spiritual threat. They map onto each other in a way that shows how the enemy operates:

 

| Goliath’s Arsenal (1 Samuel 17:45) | The Thief’s Mission (John 10:10) | The Spiritual Parallel 

  -  The Sword.  |  To Steal   | Goliath relied on his sword to strip Israel of their land, their freedom, and their identity. The enemy wants to rob you of your peace and purpose. 

 

The Spear.  |   To Kill | A spear is designed for a direct, fatal strike. Goliath’s   Literal goal was to end David’s life; the thief's goal is total spiritual death.

 

The Javelin   |   To Destroy   |  A javelin is thrown from a distance, bringing unexpected, widespread ruin. The enemy aims for complete devastation of your life and relationships. 

 

The Core Contrast: Flesh vs. Spirit

The real tie-in between these two passages is the **source of victory** that both David and Jesus point to. Both stories set up a stark contrast between reliance on worldly power and reliance on divine power.

 

 * **David’s Answer:** Right after naming Goliath's weapons, David says, *"But I come to you in the name of the Lord of Hosts."* He acknowledges the physical threat but completely bypasses it by relying on God's authority.

 

 * **Jesus’ Answer:** Right after naming the thief's three-fold threat, Jesus says, *"I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly."*

 

 

Bears and Lions can’t call you out. They can’t mock you, cast verbal jabs and doubt at you. 

 

 

Historical Context

His defiance of Israel's armies was also a taunt against their God. Your problems, issues, fears, is a taunt against God!

 

Goliath's relys on human technology, political position and physical power.

 

David invokes God's character and power, not his own resources. This echoes the idea that God's name represents His active intervention (similar to Exodus 3 or the Psalms).

 

 

It wasn’t the weapon David had it was the Worship. 

Slingers were common;

  -  Tribe of Benjamin 700 warriors ambidextrous 

      -    Sling a stone up to 95 MPH

             -   At over 200 yards… 

They were so confident they would inscribe words on their stones… MINE WOULD BE “ROCK ON”

 

 

 David contrasts Goliath's weapons with the invisible but superior heavenly host. This title appears frequently in prophetic books but here underscores early recognition of God's military sovereignty.

"Whom you have defied [cheraf-ta]": The verb charaf means to reproach, taunt, or blaspheme. Goliath's challenge is personal against Israel's God, making this a theological battle, not just military.

YOUR PROBLEMS ARE A THEOLOGICAL PROBLEM… 

i.e. Your problems are a “who is your God Problem”

 

 

 

Do you know who my father is?

  - a. No

  - b. Yes and I don’t care

  - c. Yes and I will leave you alone

BUT WHAT IF THE QUESTION WAS THIS IN THAT SITUATION… “I wonder who my father is?”

 

 

Jehovah Jireh (יְהוָה יִרְאֶה) "The LORD will provide" — revealed when God provided a ram as Abraham was about to sacrifice Isaac. Genesis 22:14.

Jehovah Rapha (יְהוָה רָפָא) "The LORD who heals" — revealed after God sweetened the bitter waters of Marah for Israel in the wilderness. Exodus 15:26. Covers physical, emotional, and spiritual healing.

Jehovah Nissi (יְהוָה נִסִּי) "The LORD is my banner" — declared by Moses after Israel's victory over the Amalekites. A banner was a military standard — the rallying point in battle. Exodus 17:15. God Himself is the flag Israel fights under.

Jehovah Shalom (יְהוָה שָׁלוֹם) "The LORD is peace" — spoken by Gideon after encountering the angel of the Lord and fearing he would die. Shalom is not just the absence of conflict but wholeness, completeness, and flourishing. Judges 6:24.

Jehovah Rohi (יְהוָה רֹעִי) "The LORD is my shepherd" — the opening of Psalm 23. One of the most intimate names — depicting God as the one who leads, feeds, protects, and restores.

Jehovah Tsidkenu (יְהוָה צִדְקֵנוּ) "The LORD our righteousness" — a prophetic name pointing to the coming Messiah who would be the righteousness of His people. Jeremiah 23:6. Deeply connected to the New Testament doctrine of justification.

Jehovah Shammah (יְהוָה שָׁמָּה) "The LORD is there" — the name given to the restored Jerusalem in Ezekiel's vision. Ezekiel 48:35. God's presence dwelling permanently with His people — echoed in Revelation 21 with the New Jerusalem.

Jehovah Sabaoth (יְהוָה צְבָאוֹת) "The LORD of Hosts" or "The LORD of Armies" — one of the most frequently used names in the prophets. It pictures God as the commander of vast heavenly armies. Used powerfully in Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Malachi.

Jehovah Mekoddishkem (יְהוָה מְקַדִּשְׁכֶם) "The LORD who sanctifies you" — Exodus 31:13. God as the one who sets His people apart and makes them holy. Sanctification as His work, not ours alone.

Jehovah Gmolah (יְהוָה גְּמֻלּוֹת) "The LORD of recompense" or "The God of vengeance" — Jeremiah 51:56. God as the one who repays — both in justice against enemies and in vindication of His people.

 

The Compound El Names

El Shaddai (אֵל שַׁדַּי) "God Almighty" or literally "God of the mountains" or "the all-sufficient one." First used with Abraham in Genesis 17:1 when God renewed His covenant. It speaks of God's absolute sufficiency — He is enough for every need.

El Elyon (אֵל עֶלְיוֹן) "God Most High" — used by Melchizedek blessing Abraham in Genesis 14. It emphasizes God's supremacy above all other powers, rulers, and so-called gods.

El Olam (אֵל עוֹלָם) "The Everlasting God" or "God of eternity" — Genesis 21:33. He has no beginning and no end. Time exists within Him, not the other way around.

El Roi (אֵל רֳאִי) "The God who sees me" — spoken by Hagar in the wilderness after she fled from Sarah. Genesis 16:13. One of the most tender names — God seeing the forgotten, the marginalized, the one who thinks they are invisible.

El Gibhor (אֵל גִּבּוֹר) "Mighty God" — Isaiah 9:6, in the famous messianic prophecy. One of the titles given to the coming Messiah — pointing directly to Christ.

El Hannun (אֵל חַנּוּן) "The gracious God" — Nehemiah 9:31. God whose grace prevents Him from completely destroying even a rebellious people.

 

New Testament 

Abba (אַבָּא) "Father" — an Aramaic term of deep intimacy, closer to "Daddy" than formal address. Jesus used it in Gethsemane. Paul says believers are given the Spirit of adoption by which they cry "Abba, Father." Romans 8:15.

Emmanuel (עִמָּנוּאֵל) "God with us" — Isaiah 7:14, fulfilled in Matthew 1:23 with the birth of Jesus. Perhaps the most staggering name of all — the eternal God choosing to be with humanity in flesh.

 

 

Why This Matters

Each name was not invented by theologians — it was revealed in a moment. 

God didn't introduce Himself as Jehovah Rapha in a lecture. He revealed it when Israel was thirsty and the water was bitter. He revealed Jehovah Jireh when a father was about to lose his son on an altar.

The pattern is consistent throughout Scripture:

Every name of God was born out of a human crisis that God personally entered.

That means the names are not just theological categories — they are a record of God showing up. And for anyone studying or teaching these names, the invitation is not just to know them but to discover which name corresponds to the specific place of need you are standing in right now.

 

 

 

Lets end on this:  1 Sam. 17:40

40 He picked up five smooth stones from a stream and put them into his shepherd’s bag. Then, armed only with his shepherd’s staff and sling, he started across the valley to fight the Philistine.

WHY FIVE STONES?

Because Goliath had 4 brothers! 

Ishbi-Benob, Saph, Lahmi AND SIX FINGER FRANK

 

 

…THERE WILL ALWAYS BE GIANTS…

But who is your God?

He is the one who crushed satans head and gives us the victory! 

 

CALL ON HIS NAME AND HE SHALL ANSWER. 

]]> Garth Heckman false No 461 1703 full Do you know His name? Do you know His name? https://tda.podbean.com/e/do-you-know-his-name/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/do-you-know-his-name/#comments Tue, 26 May 2026 16:44:32 -0500 tda.podbean.com/30a84828-bd6e-31d7-8024-4b0e3e5c2943 The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com

Garth Heckman 

 

Bears and Lions can’t call you out. They can’t mock you, cast verbal jabs and doubt at you. 

 

 

Historical Context

His defiance of Israel's armies was also a taunt against their God. Your problems, issues, fears, is a taunt against God!

 

Goliath's relys on human technology, political position and physical power.

 

David invokes God's character and power, not his own resources. This echoes the idea that God's name represents His active intervention (similar to Exodus 3 or the Psalms).

 

 

It wasn’t the weapon David had it was the Worship. 

Slingers were common;

  -  Tribe of Benjamin 700 warriors ambidextrous 

      -    Sling a stone up to 95 MPH

             -   At over 200 yards… 

They were so confident they would inscribe words on their stones… MINE WOULD BE “ROCK ON”

 

 

 David contrasts Goliath's weapons with the invisible but superior heavenly host. This title appears frequently in prophetic books but here underscores early recognition of God's military sovereignty.

"Whom you have defied [cheraf-ta]": The verb charaf means to reproach, taunt, or blaspheme. Goliath's challenge is personal against Israel's God, making this a theological battle, not just military.

YOUR PROBLEMS ARE A THEOLOGICAL PROBLEM… 

i.e. Your problems are a “who is your God Problem”

 

 

 

Do you know who my father is?

  - a. No

  - b. Yes and I don’t care

  - c. Yes and I will leave you alone

BUT WHAT IF THE QUESTION WAS THIS IN THAT SITUATION… “I wonder who my father is?”

 

 

Jehovah Jireh (יְהוָה יִרְאֶה) "The LORD will provide" — revealed when God provided a ram as Abraham was about to sacrifice Isaac. Genesis 22:14.

Jehovah Rapha (יְהוָה רָפָא) "The LORD who heals" — revealed after God sweetened the bitter waters of Marah for Israel in the wilderness. Exodus 15:26. Covers physical, emotional, and spiritual healing.

Jehovah Nissi (יְהוָה נִסִּי) "The LORD is my banner" — declared by Moses after Israel's victory over the Amalekites. A banner was a military standard — the rallying point in battle. Exodus 17:15. God Himself is the flag Israel fights under.

Jehovah Shalom (יְהוָה שָׁלוֹם) "The LORD is peace" — spoken by Gideon after encountering the angel of the Lord and fearing he would die. Shalom is not just the absence of conflict but wholeness, completeness, and flourishing. Judges 6:24.

Jehovah Rohi (יְהוָה רֹעִי) "The LORD is my shepherd" — the opening of Psalm 23. One of the most intimate names — depicting God as the one who leads, feeds, protects, and restores.

Jehovah Tsidkenu (יְהוָה צִדְקֵנוּ) "The LORD our righteousness" — a prophetic name pointing to the coming Messiah who would be the righteousness of His people. Jeremiah 23:6. Deeply connected to the New Testament doctrine of justification.

Jehovah Shammah (יְהוָה שָׁמָּה) "The LORD is there" — the name given to the restored Jerusalem in Ezekiel's vision. Ezekiel 48:35. God's presence dwelling permanently with His people — echoed in Revelation 21 with the New Jerusalem.

Jehovah Sabaoth (יְהוָה צְבָאוֹת) "The LORD of Hosts" or "The LORD of Armies" — one of the most frequently used names in the prophets. It pictures God as the commander of vast heavenly armies. Used powerfully in Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Malachi.

Jehovah Mekoddishkem (יְהוָה מְקַדִּשְׁכֶם) "The LORD who sanctifies you" — Exodus 31:13. God as the one who sets His people apart and makes them holy. Sanctification as His work, not ours alone.

Jehovah Gmolah (יְהוָה גְּמֻלּוֹת) "The LORD of recompense" or "The God of vengeance" — Jeremiah 51:56. God as the one who repays — both in justice against enemies and in vindication of His people.

 

The Compound El Names

El Shaddai (אֵל שַׁדַּי) "God Almighty" or literally "God of the mountains" or "the all-sufficient one." First used with Abraham in Genesis 17:1 when God renewed His covenant. It speaks of God's absolute sufficiency — He is enough for every need.

El Elyon (אֵל עֶלְיוֹן) "God Most High" — used by Melchizedek blessing Abraham in Genesis 14. It emphasizes God's supremacy above all other powers, rulers, and so-called gods.

El Olam (אֵל עוֹלָם) "The Everlasting God" or "God of eternity" — Genesis 21:33. He has no beginning and no end. Time exists within Him, not the other way around.

El Roi (אֵל רֳאִי) "The God who sees me" — spoken by Hagar in the wilderness after she fled from Sarah. Genesis 16:13. One of the most tender names — God seeing the forgotten, the marginalized, the one who thinks they are invisible.

El Gibhor (אֵל גִּבּוֹר) "Mighty God" — Isaiah 9:6, in the famous messianic prophecy. One of the titles given to the coming Messiah — pointing directly to Christ.

El Hannun (אֵל חַנּוּן) "The gracious God" — Nehemiah 9:31. God whose grace prevents Him from completely destroying even a rebellious people.

 

New Testament 

Abba (אַבָּא) "Father" — an Aramaic term of deep intimacy, closer to "Daddy" than formal address. Jesus used it in Gethsemane. Paul says believers are given the Spirit of adoption by which they cry "Abba, Father." Romans 8:15.

Emmanuel (עִמָּנוּאֵל) "God with us" — Isaiah 7:14, fulfilled in Matthew 1:23 with the birth of Jesus. Perhaps the most staggering name of all — the eternal God choosing to be with humanity in flesh.

 

 

Why This Matters

Each name was not invented by theologians — it was revealed in a moment. 

God didn't introduce Himself as Jehovah Rapha in a lecture. He revealed it when Israel was thirsty and the water was bitter. He revealed Jehovah Jireh when a father was about to lose his son on an altar.

The pattern is consistent throughout Scripture:

Every name of God was born out of a human crisis that God personally entered.

That means the names are not just theological categories — they are a record of God showing up. And for anyone studying or teaching these names, the invitation is not just to know them but to discover which name corresponds to the specific place of need you are standing in right now.

]]> The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com

Garth Heckman 

 

Bears and Lions can’t call you out. They can’t mock you, cast verbal jabs and doubt at you. 

 

 

Historical Context

His defiance of Israel's armies was also a taunt against their God. Your problems, issues, fears, is a taunt against God!

 

Goliath's relys on human technology, political position and physical power.

 

David invokes God's character and power, not his own resources. This echoes the idea that God's name represents His active intervention (similar to Exodus 3 or the Psalms).

 

 

It wasn’t the weapon David had it was the Worship. 

Slingers were common;

  -  Tribe of Benjamin 700 warriors ambidextrous 

      -    Sling a stone up to 95 MPH

             -   At over 200 yards… 

They were so confident they would inscribe words on their stones… MINE WOULD BE “ROCK ON”

 

 

 David contrasts Goliath's weapons with the invisible but superior heavenly host. This title appears frequently in prophetic books but here underscores early recognition of God's military sovereignty.

"Whom you have defied [cheraf-ta]": The verb charaf means to reproach, taunt, or blaspheme. Goliath's challenge is personal against Israel's God, making this a theological battle, not just military.

YOUR PROBLEMS ARE A THEOLOGICAL PROBLEM… 

i.e. Your problems are a “who is your God Problem”

 

 

 

Do you know who my father is?

  - a. No

  - b. Yes and I don’t care

  - c. Yes and I will leave you alone

BUT WHAT IF THE QUESTION WAS THIS IN THAT SITUATION… “I wonder who my father is?”

 

 

Jehovah Jireh (יְהוָה יִרְאֶה) "The LORD will provide" — revealed when God provided a ram as Abraham was about to sacrifice Isaac. Genesis 22:14.

Jehovah Rapha (יְהוָה רָפָא) "The LORD who heals" — revealed after God sweetened the bitter waters of Marah for Israel in the wilderness. Exodus 15:26. Covers physical, emotional, and spiritual healing.

Jehovah Nissi (יְהוָה נִסִּי) "The LORD is my banner" — declared by Moses after Israel's victory over the Amalekites. A banner was a military standard — the rallying point in battle. Exodus 17:15. God Himself is the flag Israel fights under.

Jehovah Shalom (יְהוָה שָׁלוֹם) "The LORD is peace" — spoken by Gideon after encountering the angel of the Lord and fearing he would die. Shalom is not just the absence of conflict but wholeness, completeness, and flourishing. Judges 6:24.

Jehovah Rohi (יְהוָה רֹעִי) "The LORD is my shepherd" — the opening of Psalm 23. One of the most intimate names — depicting God as the one who leads, feeds, protects, and restores.

Jehovah Tsidkenu (יְהוָה צִדְקֵנוּ) "The LORD our righteousness" — a prophetic name pointing to the coming Messiah who would be the righteousness of His people. Jeremiah 23:6. Deeply connected to the New Testament doctrine of justification.

Jehovah Shammah (יְהוָה שָׁמָּה) "The LORD is there" — the name given to the restored Jerusalem in Ezekiel's vision. Ezekiel 48:35. God's presence dwelling permanently with His people — echoed in Revelation 21 with the New Jerusalem.

Jehovah Sabaoth (יְהוָה צְבָאוֹת) "The LORD of Hosts" or "The LORD of Armies" — one of the most frequently used names in the prophets. It pictures God as the commander of vast heavenly armies. Used powerfully in Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Malachi.

Jehovah Mekoddishkem (יְהוָה מְקַדִּשְׁכֶם) "The LORD who sanctifies you" — Exodus 31:13. God as the one who sets His people apart and makes them holy. Sanctification as His work, not ours alone.

Jehovah Gmolah (יְהוָה גְּמֻלּוֹת) "The LORD of recompense" or "The God of vengeance" — Jeremiah 51:56. God as the one who repays — both in justice against enemies and in vindication of His people.

 

The Compound El Names

El Shaddai (אֵל שַׁדַּי) "God Almighty" or literally "God of the mountains" or "the all-sufficient one." First used with Abraham in Genesis 17:1 when God renewed His covenant. It speaks of God's absolute sufficiency — He is enough for every need.

El Elyon (אֵל עֶלְיוֹן) "God Most High" — used by Melchizedek blessing Abraham in Genesis 14. It emphasizes God's supremacy above all other powers, rulers, and so-called gods.

El Olam (אֵל עוֹלָם) "The Everlasting God" or "God of eternity" — Genesis 21:33. He has no beginning and no end. Time exists within Him, not the other way around.

El Roi (אֵל רֳאִי) "The God who sees me" — spoken by Hagar in the wilderness after she fled from Sarah. Genesis 16:13. One of the most tender names — God seeing the forgotten, the marginalized, the one who thinks they are invisible.

El Gibhor (אֵל גִּבּוֹר) "Mighty God" — Isaiah 9:6, in the famous messianic prophecy. One of the titles given to the coming Messiah — pointing directly to Christ.

El Hannun (אֵל חַנּוּן) "The gracious God" — Nehemiah 9:31. God whose grace prevents Him from completely destroying even a rebellious people.

 

New Testament 

Abba (אַבָּא) "Father" — an Aramaic term of deep intimacy, closer to "Daddy" than formal address. Jesus used it in Gethsemane. Paul says believers are given the Spirit of adoption by which they cry "Abba, Father." Romans 8:15.

Emmanuel (עִמָּנוּאֵל) "God with us" — Isaiah 7:14, fulfilled in Matthew 1:23 with the birth of Jesus. Perhaps the most staggering name of all — the eternal God choosing to be with humanity in flesh.

 

 

Why This Matters

Each name was not invented by theologians — it was revealed in a moment. 

God didn't introduce Himself as Jehovah Rapha in a lecture. He revealed it when Israel was thirsty and the water was bitter. He revealed Jehovah Jireh when a father was about to lose his son on an altar.

The pattern is consistent throughout Scripture:

Every name of God was born out of a human crisis that God personally entered.

That means the names are not just theological categories — they are a record of God showing up. And for anyone studying or teaching these names, the invitation is not just to know them but to discover which name corresponds to the specific place of need you are standing in right now.

]]> Garth Heckman false No 466 1702 full Favorite weapon? Favorite weapon? https://tda.podbean.com/e/favorite-weapon/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/favorite-weapon/#comments Mon, 25 May 2026 18:44:17 -0500 tda.podbean.com/ef6ff03f-99ef-3a2c-bfa0-0286b3d21f68 TDAgiantslayer@Gmail.com

The David Alliance 

Garth Heckman

The battle of David and Goliath was never really about David and Goliath. It was the culmination of Israel's spiritual decline under Saul, and the first visible sign that God had already been at work preparing a different kind of leader — one after His own heart.

 

 

 

1 Samuel 17

41 Goliath walked out toward David with his shield bearer ahead of him, 42 sneering in contempt at this ruddy-faced boy. 43 “Am I a dog,” he roared at David, “that you come at me with a stick?” And he cursed David by the names of his gods. 44 “Come over here, and I’ll give your flesh to the birds and wild animals!” Goliath yelled.

45 David replied to the Philistine, “You come to me with sword, spear, and javelin, but I come to you in the name of the Lord of Heaven’s Armies—the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied. 46 Today the Lord will conquer you, and I will kill you and cut off your head. And then I will give the dead bodies of your men to the birds and wild animals, and the whole world will know that there is a God in Israel! 47 And everyone assembled here will know that the Lord rescues his people, but not with sword and spear. This is the Lord’s battle, and he will give you to us!”

 

 

David's arrival on the battlefield was jarring precisely because of the contrast. He was young, unarmored, and inexperienced — but he carried something the entire army had lost: a reference point for who God was.

 

 

 

 

David doesn’t call out the enemy, he calls out his tactics… His weapons of choice. 

WHY? 

 

 

In 1 Samuel 17:45, David identifies a three-fold physical threat. 

In John 10:10, Jesus identifies a three-fold spiritual threat. They map onto each other in a way that shows how the enemy operates:

 

| Goliath’s Arsenal (1 Samuel 17:45) | The Thief’s Mission (John 10:10) | The Spiritual Parallel 

  -  The Sword.  |  To Steal   | Goliath relied on his sword to strip Israel of their land, their freedom, and their identity. The enemy wants to rob you of your peace and purpose. 

 

The Spear.  |   To Kill | A spear is designed for a direct, fatal strike. Goliath’s   Literal goal was to end David’s life; the thief's goal is total spiritual death.

 

The Javelin   |   To Destroy   |  A javelin is thrown from a distance, bringing unexpected, widespread ruin. The enemy aims for complete devastation of your life and relationships. 

 

The Core Contrast: Flesh vs. Spirit

The real tie-in between these two passages is the **source of victory** that both David and Jesus point to. Both stories set up a stark contrast between reliance on worldly power and reliance on divine power.

 

 * **David’s Answer:** Right after naming Goliath's weapons, David says, *"But I come to you in the name of the Lord of Hosts."* He acknowledges the physical threat but completely bypasses it by relying on God's authority.

 

 * **Jesus’ Answer:** Right after naming the thief's three-fold threat, Jesus says, *"I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly."*

]]> TDAgiantslayer@Gmail.com

The David Alliance 

Garth Heckman

The battle of David and Goliath was never really about David and Goliath. It was the culmination of Israel's spiritual decline under Saul, and the first visible sign that God had already been at work preparing a different kind of leader — one after His own heart.

 

 

 

1 Samuel 17

41 Goliath walked out toward David with his shield bearer ahead of him, 42 sneering in contempt at this ruddy-faced boy. 43 “Am I a dog,” he roared at David, “that you come at me with a stick?” And he cursed David by the names of his gods. 44 “Come over here, and I’ll give your flesh to the birds and wild animals!” Goliath yelled.

45 David replied to the Philistine, “You come to me with sword, spear, and javelin, but I come to you in the name of the Lord of Heaven’s Armies—the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied. 46 Today the Lord will conquer you, and I will kill you and cut off your head. And then I will give the dead bodies of your men to the birds and wild animals, and the whole world will know that there is a God in Israel! 47 And everyone assembled here will know that the Lord rescues his people, but not with sword and spear. This is the Lord’s battle, and he will give you to us!”

 

 

David's arrival on the battlefield was jarring precisely because of the contrast. He was young, unarmored, and inexperienced — but he carried something the entire army had lost: a reference point for who God was.

 

 

 

 

David doesn’t call out the enemy, he calls out his tactics… His weapons of choice. 

WHY? 

 

 

In 1 Samuel 17:45, David identifies a three-fold physical threat. 

In John 10:10, Jesus identifies a three-fold spiritual threat. They map onto each other in a way that shows how the enemy operates:

 

| Goliath’s Arsenal (1 Samuel 17:45) | The Thief’s Mission (John 10:10) | The Spiritual Parallel 

  -  The Sword.  |  To Steal   | Goliath relied on his sword to strip Israel of their land, their freedom, and their identity. The enemy wants to rob you of your peace and purpose. 

 

The Spear.  |   To Kill | A spear is designed for a direct, fatal strike. Goliath’s   Literal goal was to end David’s life; the thief's goal is total spiritual death.

 

The Javelin   |   To Destroy   |  A javelin is thrown from a distance, bringing unexpected, widespread ruin. The enemy aims for complete devastation of your life and relationships. 

 

The Core Contrast: Flesh vs. Spirit

The real tie-in between these two passages is the **source of victory** that both David and Jesus point to. Both stories set up a stark contrast between reliance on worldly power and reliance on divine power.

 

 * **David’s Answer:** Right after naming Goliath's weapons, David says, *"But I come to you in the name of the Lord of Hosts."* He acknowledges the physical threat but completely bypasses it by relying on God's authority.

 

 * **Jesus’ Answer:** Right after naming the thief's three-fold threat, Jesus says, *"I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly."*

]]> Garth Heckman false No 455 1701 full David, Goliath and that Dude Saul David, Goliath and that Dude Saul https://tda.podbean.com/e/david-goliath-and-that-dude-saul/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/david-goliath-and-that-dude-saul/#comments Sun, 24 May 2026 21:26:23 -0500 tda.podbean.com/d59866c1-05a3-394e-9a13-7a2e33f1466f TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com 

The David Alliance

Garth Heckman

VERY FAMILIAR STORY -  

*TIED TO MY NOTES TODAY

 

THE BUILD UP and DEMISE OF ISRAEL 

 

THE PEOPLE WANTED A MAN OVER GOD (They wanted a King)… Here is an old quote: when more than one votes… you can assure its the wrong decision.

It wasn’t a King that was truly the problem - 

BUT RATHER following a man, that was the problem. It was the peoples desire to follow a King over a prophet who followed God.

     ***No one voted a prophet in.

        ****People choose a King, God chooses a prophet. 

 

Saul offers false sacrifices

Saul chooses to disobey Gods orders to wipe out the Amakalites 

Saul becomes erratic and tormented by demonic spirits 

Saul now operates out of fear

 *Israel and the army now saw their enemies the way their leader did - IN FEAR.

 

The battle of David and Goliath was never really about David and Goliath. It was the culmination of Israel's spiritual decline under Saul, and the first visible sign that God had already been at work preparing a different kind of leader — one after His own heart.

 

 

 

1 Samuel 17

41 Goliath walked out toward David with his shield bearer ahead of him, 42 sneering in contempt at this ruddy-faced boy. 43 “Am I a dog,” he roared at David, “that you come at me with a stick?” And he cursed David by the names of his gods. 44 “Come over here, and I’ll give your flesh to the birds and wild animals!” Goliath yelled.

45 David replied to the Philistine, “You come to me with sword, spear, and javelin, but I come to you in the name of the Lord of Heaven’s Armies—the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied. 46 Today the Lord will conquer you, and I will kill you and cut off your head. And then I will give the dead bodies of your men to the birds and wild animals, and the whole world will know that there is a God in Israel! 47 And everyone assembled here will know that the Lord rescues his people, but not with sword and spear. This is the Lord’s battle, and he will give you to us!”

]]> TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com 

The David Alliance

Garth Heckman

VERY FAMILIAR STORY -  

*TIED TO MY NOTES TODAY

 

THE BUILD UP and DEMISE OF ISRAEL 

 

THE PEOPLE WANTED A MAN OVER GOD (They wanted a King)… Here is an old quote: when more than one votes… you can assure its the wrong decision.

It wasn’t a King that was truly the problem - 

BUT RATHER following a man, that was the problem. It was the peoples desire to follow a King over a prophet who followed God.

     ***No one voted a prophet in.

        ****People choose a King, God chooses a prophet. 

 

Saul offers false sacrifices

Saul chooses to disobey Gods orders to wipe out the Amakalites 

Saul becomes erratic and tormented by demonic spirits 

Saul now operates out of fear

 *Israel and the army now saw their enemies the way their leader did - IN FEAR.

 

The battle of David and Goliath was never really about David and Goliath. It was the culmination of Israel's spiritual decline under Saul, and the first visible sign that God had already been at work preparing a different kind of leader — one after His own heart.

 

 

 

1 Samuel 17

41 Goliath walked out toward David with his shield bearer ahead of him, 42 sneering in contempt at this ruddy-faced boy. 43 “Am I a dog,” he roared at David, “that you come at me with a stick?” And he cursed David by the names of his gods. 44 “Come over here, and I’ll give your flesh to the birds and wild animals!” Goliath yelled.

45 David replied to the Philistine, “You come to me with sword, spear, and javelin, but I come to you in the name of the Lord of Heaven’s Armies—the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied. 46 Today the Lord will conquer you, and I will kill you and cut off your head. And then I will give the dead bodies of your men to the birds and wild animals, and the whole world will know that there is a God in Israel! 47 And everyone assembled here will know that the Lord rescues his people, but not with sword and spear. This is the Lord’s battle, and he will give you to us!”

]]> Garth Heckman false No 452 1700 full Be a Dangerous man Be a Dangerous man https://tda.podbean.com/e/be-a-dangerous-man/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/be-a-dangerous-man/#comments Thu, 21 May 2026 19:40:20 -0500 tda.podbean.com/56025f4c-e861-3808-984d-47d73d496566 TDAgiantSlayer@gmail.com

The David Alliance

Garth Heckman

]]> TDAgiantSlayer@gmail.com

The David Alliance

Garth Heckman

]]> Garth Heckman false No 494 1699 full Ask for Directions! Ask for Directions! https://tda.podbean.com/e/ask-for-directions/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/ask-for-directions/#comments Mon, 18 May 2026 18:56:51 -0500 tda.podbean.com/35b0a5f4-8c2e-3704-881d-877c0ff3508e The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com

Garth Heckman

Are you able to ask for directions? Why do men get made fun of for not asking for directions… I have never had a problem with asking for directions… but I guess some men do. Hmmmm weird, but anyway there is a myth out there called 

 

The Myth of the Maverick

Gentlemen, let’s be honest about something.

For most of us, asking for help doesn’t just feel uncomfortable. It feels like an admission of weakness or defeat. We’ve been conditioned to believe that a real leader is a lone warrior—the man who has all the answers, carries all the weight, and never, ever shows a crack in his armor.

We look at asking for help as a white flag. We think it means: "I am not strong enough. I am failing."

But I want to challenge that today. Keeping your mouth shut when you are drowning isn’t leadership. It’s pride. And biblically speaking, isolation is the most dangerous position a man can put himself in.

Look at the life of Moses in Exodus 18.

Moses was the ultimate leader. He led millions of people out of Egypt, parted the Red Sea, and spoke to God face-to-face. Talk about a resume. But Moses fell into the trap of the "Maverick." He was sitting from morning until night, trying to judge every single dispute for the entire nation of Israel by himself. He was carrying the whole weight on his own shoulders.

His father-in-law, Jethro, watches this play out and gives him a brutal reality check in Exodus 18:17-18:

"What you are doing is not good. You and these people who come to you will only wear yourselves out. The work is too heavy for you; you cannot handle it alone."

Notice what Jethro didn't say. He didn’t say, "Moses, you lack vision." He didn't say, "Moses, you lack character or anointed power." He said, "The work is too heavy for you; you cannot handle it alone."

Even the most anointed, powerful leader in the Old Testament had human limitations. Moses’ value didn't drop because he needed help; his leadership capacity expanded when he accepted it. He appointed capable men to share the burden, and only then did the nation thrive.

Men, true biblical leadership is never about independence; it is about interdependence.

God did not design you to be a solo operator. Ecclesiastes 4:12 tells us, "Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken."

When you refuse to ask for help—whether it’s in your marriage, your business, your mental health, or your spiritual life—you aren't protecting your leadership. You are starving it. You are cutting yourself off from the strategic reinforcement God has placed around you.

Asking for help is not a failure of leadership; it is an act of strategic ownership. It’s looking at the mission and saying, "The mission is more important than my ego. Winning the battle matters more than me getting the credit for doing it alone."

Let’s drop the lone-wolf act. Real strength is having the courage to look a brother in the eye and say, "The work is too heavy today. I need another strand in the cord."

That’s not weakness. That is how kingdoms are built.

]]> The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com

Garth Heckman

Are you able to ask for directions? Why do men get made fun of for not asking for directions… I have never had a problem with asking for directions… but I guess some men do. Hmmmm weird, but anyway there is a myth out there called 

 

The Myth of the Maverick

Gentlemen, let’s be honest about something.

For most of us, asking for help doesn’t just feel uncomfortable. It feels like an admission of weakness or defeat. We’ve been conditioned to believe that a real leader is a lone warrior—the man who has all the answers, carries all the weight, and never, ever shows a crack in his armor.

We look at asking for help as a white flag. We think it means: "I am not strong enough. I am failing."

But I want to challenge that today. Keeping your mouth shut when you are drowning isn’t leadership. It’s pride. And biblically speaking, isolation is the most dangerous position a man can put himself in.

Look at the life of Moses in Exodus 18.

Moses was the ultimate leader. He led millions of people out of Egypt, parted the Red Sea, and spoke to God face-to-face. Talk about a resume. But Moses fell into the trap of the "Maverick." He was sitting from morning until night, trying to judge every single dispute for the entire nation of Israel by himself. He was carrying the whole weight on his own shoulders.

His father-in-law, Jethro, watches this play out and gives him a brutal reality check in Exodus 18:17-18:

"What you are doing is not good. You and these people who come to you will only wear yourselves out. The work is too heavy for you; you cannot handle it alone."

Notice what Jethro didn't say. He didn’t say, "Moses, you lack vision." He didn't say, "Moses, you lack character or anointed power." He said, "The work is too heavy for you; you cannot handle it alone."

Even the most anointed, powerful leader in the Old Testament had human limitations. Moses’ value didn't drop because he needed help; his leadership capacity expanded when he accepted it. He appointed capable men to share the burden, and only then did the nation thrive.

Men, true biblical leadership is never about independence; it is about interdependence.

God did not design you to be a solo operator. Ecclesiastes 4:12 tells us, "Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken."

When you refuse to ask for help—whether it’s in your marriage, your business, your mental health, or your spiritual life—you aren't protecting your leadership. You are starving it. You are cutting yourself off from the strategic reinforcement God has placed around you.

Asking for help is not a failure of leadership; it is an act of strategic ownership. It’s looking at the mission and saying, "The mission is more important than my ego. Winning the battle matters more than me getting the credit for doing it alone."

Let’s drop the lone-wolf act. Real strength is having the courage to look a brother in the eye and say, "The work is too heavy today. I need another strand in the cord."

That’s not weakness. That is how kingdoms are built.

]]> Garth Heckman false No 461 1698 full How He sees us! How He sees us! https://tda.podbean.com/e/how-he-sees-us/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/how-he-sees-us/#comments Sun, 17 May 2026 18:43:28 -0500 tda.podbean.com/44d283bf-ecbf-315d-8ad4-a97b1b112b89 The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com 

Garth Heckman

Driving with Kim in the car when we were first married. I pulled a gun on a guy in a corvette! 

I was on my way to Youth Group - I was the youth pastor.

 

Judges 6 

11 Then the angel of the Lord came and sat beneath the great tree at Ophrah, which belonged to Joash of the clan of Abiezer. Gideon son of Joash was threshing wheat at the bottom of a winepress to hide the grain from the Midianites. 12 The angel of the Lord appeared to him and said, “Mighty hero, the Lord is with you!”

13 “Sir,” Gideon replied, “if the Lord is with us, why has all this happened to us? And where are all the miracles our ancestors told us about? Didn’t they say, ‘The Lord brought us up out of Egypt’? But now the Lord has abandoned us and handed us over to the Midianites.”

14 Then the Lord turned to him and said, “Go with the strength you have, and rescue Israel from the Midianites. I am sending you!”

 

 

 

 

1. He Was Living in Poverty and Oppression

For seven years, Israel had been brutally oppressed by the Midianites, Amalekites, and other eastern peoples. The oppression was so severe that the Israelites had abandoned their homes in the valleys to live in dens, caves, and strongholds in the mountains (Judges 6:2).

The invaders would sweep through the land like locusts, destroying crops and slaughtering livestock. The text notes that Israel was "brought very low" because of Midian. Gideon wasn't a wealthy noble or a ruling judge; he was a victim of a devastating, nationwide economic and military siege.

 

2. He Was Hiding in a Winepress

When the Angel of the Lord finds Gideon, he is threshing wheat in a winepress (Judges 6:11).

  • Why this matters: Wheat was traditionally threshed in an open, elevated area (a threshing floor) so the wind could blow away the chaff. A winepress, however, was a pit dug into the ground or carved into rock.

Operating out of fear, survival and panic.

 

 

3. He Was From an Insignificant, Idol-Worshipping Family

 

4. He Was Battling Deep Skepticism and Grief

Gideon’s immediate reaction to the Angel’s blessing ("The Lord is with you, mighty warrior") is not pride, but bitter skepticism. He looked at his current reality and concluded that God had abandoned them:

 

The Irony of the Title

When God calls Gideon a "mighty warrior," Gideon is:

  • In hiding (not in battle)
  • Doubting God's presence (not acting in faith)
  • Belittling his own status (not displaying courage)

The title was prophetic. God was not validating Gideon’s current resume; He was naming the potential that He was about to unlock through His own power.

 

 

 

When the Angel of the Lord appeared to Gideon in Judges 6:12 and addressed him as a "mighty warrior" it was a statement of what God would do through him, not a description of who Gideon currently was.

 

He saw what he would do - which in turn is who he would be - in turn is who He really was in Gods eyes! 

 

 

Can an egg fly?

Can a puppy protect you? 

Can an acorn shade, protect and feed thousands of animals?

Can a spark destroy city? 

 

We see an egg - God sees an eagle!

We see a puppy - God sees the Rottweiler that attacked the sex predator who ran into the Childs yard. 

We see an acorn - God sees The Foret de Trancais 26,000 acre forest

We see a spark - God sees the Chinchaga fire burning 4.2 million acres. 

 

Do you think when Jesus saw the disciples arguing over who would be the greatest, when Peter would deny him, when Thomas would doubt him, when they would not understand simple scripture, when they could not heal a boy, or worried over storms, food or religious leaders… HE SAW THEIR STORY! You will all be so committed and change the world so powerfully that they will need to Kill you to stop you! And you will be honored to give your life for me! 

 

 

How does Jesus see us?

We are salt

We are light

We are friends

We are secure in him

We have overcome the world

We will do greater works then Jesus

We will have rivers of living water flow out of us

We will tread on serpents, scorpions, nothing will hurt us

We are plugged directly into him

He is always with us

We will crush the serpents head

We are the head and not the tail

We wear a robe of righteousness

We are more than conquerors 

 

EVEN WITH THE DISCIPLES… JESUS WOULD BE DISAPPOINTED IN THEM - BUT NEVER REJECT THEM OR GET ANGRY AT THEM OR SHAMED THEM.

Rather he would

Ask a question

Correct their perception

And never reject them. 

 

 

2 Kings 6 The King of Aram is mad and thinks there is a traitor. It is Elisha… Go kill him.

 -  14 So one night the king of Aram sent a great army with many chariots and horses to surround the city.

15 When the servant of the man of God got up early the next morning and went outside, there were troops, horses, and chariots everywhere. “Oh, sir, what will we do now?” the young man cried to Elisha.

16 “Don’t be afraid!” Elisha told him. “For there are more on our side than on theirs!” 17 Then Elisha prayed, “O Lord, open his eyes and let him see!” The Lord opened the young man’s eyes, and when he looked up, he saw that the hillside around Elisha was filled with horses and chariots of fire.

 

   -  Its right there! 

What is? Your answer - it’s right there. You just can’t see it. 

**Yesterday I was praying and seeking Gods wisdom on finances… he pointed to my kitchen table and showed me a stack of money… he said its right there. You just can’t see it… but its there.

 

 

You might think you can’t see it because you are in the dark… no you are not in the dark, you are in the preparation phase which can feel like the dark.

 

The Chinese Bamboo Tree (your example)

Spends the first 5 years growing almost nothing above ground while developing a massive, deep root system. In the 6th year, it can grow 80–90 feet in just 6 weeks.

 

The Saguaro Cactus

Grows extremely slowly — often only 1–2 inches in the first 10 years. It can take 30–40 years before it even grows its first arm. Then, once established, it can live 150–200 years and reach 40–60 feet tall.

]]> The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com 

Garth Heckman

Driving with Kim in the car when we were first married. I pulled a gun on a guy in a corvette! 

I was on my way to Youth Group - I was the youth pastor.

 

Judges 6 

11 Then the angel of the Lord came and sat beneath the great tree at Ophrah, which belonged to Joash of the clan of Abiezer. Gideon son of Joash was threshing wheat at the bottom of a winepress to hide the grain from the Midianites. 12 The angel of the Lord appeared to him and said, “Mighty hero, the Lord is with you!”

13 “Sir,” Gideon replied, “if the Lord is with us, why has all this happened to us? And where are all the miracles our ancestors told us about? Didn’t they say, ‘The Lord brought us up out of Egypt’? But now the Lord has abandoned us and handed us over to the Midianites.”

14 Then the Lord turned to him and said, “Go with the strength you have, and rescue Israel from the Midianites. I am sending you!”

 

 

 

 

1. He Was Living in Poverty and Oppression

For seven years, Israel had been brutally oppressed by the Midianites, Amalekites, and other eastern peoples. The oppression was so severe that the Israelites had abandoned their homes in the valleys to live in dens, caves, and strongholds in the mountains (Judges 6:2).

The invaders would sweep through the land like locusts, destroying crops and slaughtering livestock. The text notes that Israel was "brought very low" because of Midian. Gideon wasn't a wealthy noble or a ruling judge; he was a victim of a devastating, nationwide economic and military siege.

 

2. He Was Hiding in a Winepress

When the Angel of the Lord finds Gideon, he is threshing wheat in a winepress (Judges 6:11).

  • Why this matters: Wheat was traditionally threshed in an open, elevated area (a threshing floor) so the wind could blow away the chaff. A winepress, however, was a pit dug into the ground or carved into rock.

Operating out of fear, survival and panic.

 

 

3. He Was From an Insignificant, Idol-Worshipping Family

 

4. He Was Battling Deep Skepticism and Grief

Gideon’s immediate reaction to the Angel’s blessing ("The Lord is with you, mighty warrior") is not pride, but bitter skepticism. He looked at his current reality and concluded that God had abandoned them:

 

The Irony of the Title

When God calls Gideon a "mighty warrior," Gideon is:

  • In hiding (not in battle)
  • Doubting God's presence (not acting in faith)
  • Belittling his own status (not displaying courage)

The title was prophetic. God was not validating Gideon’s current resume; He was naming the potential that He was about to unlock through His own power.

 

 

 

When the Angel of the Lord appeared to Gideon in Judges 6:12 and addressed him as a "mighty warrior" it was a statement of what God would do through him, not a description of who Gideon currently was.

 

He saw what he would do - which in turn is who he would be - in turn is who He really was in Gods eyes! 

 

 

Can an egg fly?

Can a puppy protect you? 

Can an acorn shade, protect and feed thousands of animals?

Can a spark destroy city? 

 

We see an egg - God sees an eagle!

We see a puppy - God sees the Rottweiler that attacked the sex predator who ran into the Childs yard. 

We see an acorn - God sees The Foret de Trancais 26,000 acre forest

We see a spark - God sees the Chinchaga fire burning 4.2 million acres. 

 

Do you think when Jesus saw the disciples arguing over who would be the greatest, when Peter would deny him, when Thomas would doubt him, when they would not understand simple scripture, when they could not heal a boy, or worried over storms, food or religious leaders… HE SAW THEIR STORY! You will all be so committed and change the world so powerfully that they will need to Kill you to stop you! And you will be honored to give your life for me! 

 

 

How does Jesus see us?

We are salt

We are light

We are friends

We are secure in him

We have overcome the world

We will do greater works then Jesus

We will have rivers of living water flow out of us

We will tread on serpents, scorpions, nothing will hurt us

We are plugged directly into him

He is always with us

We will crush the serpents head

We are the head and not the tail

We wear a robe of righteousness

We are more than conquerors 

 

EVEN WITH THE DISCIPLES… JESUS WOULD BE DISAPPOINTED IN THEM - BUT NEVER REJECT THEM OR GET ANGRY AT THEM OR SHAMED THEM.

Rather he would

Ask a question

Correct their perception

And never reject them. 

 

 

2 Kings 6 The King of Aram is mad and thinks there is a traitor. It is Elisha… Go kill him.

 -  14 So one night the king of Aram sent a great army with many chariots and horses to surround the city.

15 When the servant of the man of God got up early the next morning and went outside, there were troops, horses, and chariots everywhere. “Oh, sir, what will we do now?” the young man cried to Elisha.

16 “Don’t be afraid!” Elisha told him. “For there are more on our side than on theirs!” 17 Then Elisha prayed, “O Lord, open his eyes and let him see!” The Lord opened the young man’s eyes, and when he looked up, he saw that the hillside around Elisha was filled with horses and chariots of fire.

 

   -  Its right there! 

What is? Your answer - it’s right there. You just can’t see it. 

**Yesterday I was praying and seeking Gods wisdom on finances… he pointed to my kitchen table and showed me a stack of money… he said its right there. You just can’t see it… but its there.

 

 

You might think you can’t see it because you are in the dark… no you are not in the dark, you are in the preparation phase which can feel like the dark.

 

The Chinese Bamboo Tree (your example)

Spends the first 5 years growing almost nothing above ground while developing a massive, deep root system. In the 6th year, it can grow 80–90 feet in just 6 weeks.

 

The Saguaro Cactus

Grows extremely slowly — often only 1–2 inches in the first 10 years. It can take 30–40 years before it even grows its first arm. Then, once established, it can live 150–200 years and reach 40–60 feet tall.

]]> Garth Heckman false No 461 1697 full The Cross vs. Submission The Cross vs. Submission https://tda.podbean.com/e/the-cross-vs-submission/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/the-cross-vs-submission/#comments Wed, 13 May 2026 20:34:45 -0500 tda.podbean.com/ddfceb77-7e08-367c-8ff9-1198d0ef7132 Garth Heckman

The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com 

#The brotherhood manifesto

#TripleCsurvivor 

Taking up your cross" is often viewed through a lens of submission, but when analyzed through the mechanics of character and endurance, it reveals itself as a high-level feat of internal power.

Here are three talking points on why this act represents the ultimate expression of strength:

1. The Mastery of Volitional Suffering

True strength is rarely found in the absence of pain, but rather in the voluntary adoption of responsibility despite it. Most people spend their lives fleeing discomfort or seeking the path of least resistance. To "take up a cross" is to consciously choose a difficult path for the sake of a higher purpose. It requires a level of psychological and spiritual fortitude that far exceeds mere physical exertion because it involves silencing the primal instinct for self-preservation in favor of duty.

2. The Weight of Integrity Over Ego

The "cross" often represents the heavy burden of standing for truth, even when it is socially or personally costly. It is easy to be "strong" when the crowd is cheering you on; it is a monumental feat of strength to carry a conviction that makes you a target. This represents the shift from external validation to internal alignment. It takes more "lifting power" to carry the weight of one's principles through a storm of opposition than it does to follow the momentum of the status quo.

3. Absolute Discipline of the Will

In any high-performance endeavor, the greatest enemy is the "inner quitter"—the part of the mind that seeks comfort when the load gets heavy. Taking up your cross is the ultimate exercise in willpower over whim. It is a daily, repetitive commitment to a mission that offers no immediate physical reward. This type of endurance builds a "moral callus," transforming a person from someone who reacts to their environment into someone who purposefully shapes their character through sustained, disciplined action.

This concept suggests that the strongest person in the room isn't necessarily the one with the most power over others, but the one with the most po

]]> Garth Heckman

The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com 

#The brotherhood manifesto

#TripleCsurvivor 

Taking up your cross" is often viewed through a lens of submission, but when analyzed through the mechanics of character and endurance, it reveals itself as a high-level feat of internal power.

Here are three talking points on why this act represents the ultimate expression of strength:

1. The Mastery of Volitional Suffering

True strength is rarely found in the absence of pain, but rather in the voluntary adoption of responsibility despite it. Most people spend their lives fleeing discomfort or seeking the path of least resistance. To "take up a cross" is to consciously choose a difficult path for the sake of a higher purpose. It requires a level of psychological and spiritual fortitude that far exceeds mere physical exertion because it involves silencing the primal instinct for self-preservation in favor of duty.

2. The Weight of Integrity Over Ego

The "cross" often represents the heavy burden of standing for truth, even when it is socially or personally costly. It is easy to be "strong" when the crowd is cheering you on; it is a monumental feat of strength to carry a conviction that makes you a target. This represents the shift from external validation to internal alignment. It takes more "lifting power" to carry the weight of one's principles through a storm of opposition than it does to follow the momentum of the status quo.

3. Absolute Discipline of the Will

In any high-performance endeavor, the greatest enemy is the "inner quitter"—the part of the mind that seeks comfort when the load gets heavy. Taking up your cross is the ultimate exercise in willpower over whim. It is a daily, repetitive commitment to a mission that offers no immediate physical reward. This type of endurance builds a "moral callus," transforming a person from someone who reacts to their environment into someone who purposefully shapes their character through sustained, disciplined action.

This concept suggests that the strongest person in the room isn't necessarily the one with the most power over others, but the one with the most po

]]> Garth Heckman false No 459 1696 full 20 hours vs. 15 minutes 20 hours vs. 15 minutes https://tda.podbean.com/e/20-hours-vs-15-minutes/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/20-hours-vs-15-minutes/#comments Tue, 12 May 2026 18:39:52 -0500 tda.podbean.com/e26c3aed-805f-31d0-88e4-8fe12c35193f TDAgiantslayer@Gmail.com

The David Alliance 

Garth Heckman

 

The Busy Man's Substitute

 

 

There is something about a man that would rather build something than bow to something.

Give a man a mission and he'll work himself to exhaustion. Ask that same man to sit quietly in prayer for thirty minutes and he'll suddenly remember seventeen things that need to get done first.

We are, by nature, doers. And somewhere along the way, we convinced ourselves that doing things for God was the same as being with God.

It is not.

 

The Scripture

"But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to him and asked, 'Lord, don't you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!' 'Martha, Martha,' the Lord answered, 'you are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed — or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken from her.'" — Luke 10:40–42

 

Now before you say "that's a story about women" — slow down.

 

Martha is every man who has ever stayed busy for God while quietly avoiding intimacy with God. She wasn't sinning. She was serving. She was working hard, doing good things, keeping everything moving.

And Jesus gently called it a distraction.

 

The Honest Truth About Why We'd Rather Work

1. Work gives us something to show for ourselves. Prayer produces nothing we can photograph, present, or point to. You can't put thirty minutes of quiet conversation with God on a report. But a new ministry program? A mission trip organized? A church built? That's something. That feels like proof we matter.

The hard truth is that a lot of what we call "work for God" is really work for our own sense of worth. We need to feel productive. We need to feel useful. Sitting in silence with God doesn't feed that hunger — it exposes it.

2. Work keeps us in control. When you're managing a project, you hold the pen. You make the calls. You set the timeline.

Prayer requires the opposite posture. It requires you to come to Someone greater than yourself, admit you don't have all the answers, and wait. For a man wired to lead and fix and solve — that is genuinely uncomfortable. We don't like waiting. We don't like not knowing. And prayer, at its core, is an act of surrender.

3. Work keeps us from the conversation we're afraid to have. Here's the one most men won't say out loud: sometimes we stay busy because being still means being honest. And being honest with God means the real stuff surfaces — the fear, the failure, the sin we've been managing around, the doubt we've never admitted to anyone.

A project never asks you how you're really doing. God always does.

 

The Deeper Problem

When a man substitutes work for prayer, he doesn't just miss out on rest — he starts running on his own fuel. And a man running on his own fuel will eventually hit empty at exactly the wrong moment.

Every great project built without a foundation of prayer is just a man's plan with God's name on it.

Moses didn't lead two million people through the desert on strategy. David didn't defeat Goliath on confidence. Nehemiah didn't rebuild the wall on project management skills. Each of them had one thing in common before the great work began — they had been alone with God long enough to know it was His work and not theirs.

The work they did for God flowed out of the time they spent with God. That order matters more than most men realize.

 

The Gut Check

Ask yourself honestly:

  • When was the last time I prayed longer than I planned for a project?
  • Do I know God's voice — or just His assignments?
  • Am I building His kingdom or building my reputation inside His kingdom?
  • If God called a halt to every ministry project tomorrow, would I still have a relationship with Him — or would I have nothing left to talk about?

 

The Invitation

Jesus didn't say Martha's work was wrong. He said Mary's choice was better.

The better thing is not always the bigger thing. Sometimes the most powerful thing a man can do for God's kingdom is close the laptop, silence the phone, sit down in a quiet room and say —

"I'm here. Not to report. Not to plan. Not to ask for anything. Just — here."

That kind of prayer doesn't feel productive. It doesn't look like much from the outside.

But it is the one thing that turns ordinary men into dangerous ones.

Because a man who knows how to be with God is a man God can trust with the work.

 

Closing Prayer

Lord, forgive me for the times I mistook my busyness for faithfulness. Teach me that You want my presence before You want my productivity. Still the part of me that needs to perform — and grow the part of me that simply needs You. Amen.

 

"Be still and know that I am God." — Psalm 46:10

]]> TDAgiantslayer@Gmail.com

The David Alliance 

Garth Heckman

 

The Busy Man's Substitute

 

 

There is something about a man that would rather build something than bow to something.

Give a man a mission and he'll work himself to exhaustion. Ask that same man to sit quietly in prayer for thirty minutes and he'll suddenly remember seventeen things that need to get done first.

We are, by nature, doers. And somewhere along the way, we convinced ourselves that doing things for God was the same as being with God.

It is not.

 

The Scripture

"But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to him and asked, 'Lord, don't you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!' 'Martha, Martha,' the Lord answered, 'you are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed — or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken from her.'" — Luke 10:40–42

 

Now before you say "that's a story about women" — slow down.

 

Martha is every man who has ever stayed busy for God while quietly avoiding intimacy with God. She wasn't sinning. She was serving. She was working hard, doing good things, keeping everything moving.

And Jesus gently called it a distraction.

 

The Honest Truth About Why We'd Rather Work

1. Work gives us something to show for ourselves. Prayer produces nothing we can photograph, present, or point to. You can't put thirty minutes of quiet conversation with God on a report. But a new ministry program? A mission trip organized? A church built? That's something. That feels like proof we matter.

The hard truth is that a lot of what we call "work for God" is really work for our own sense of worth. We need to feel productive. We need to feel useful. Sitting in silence with God doesn't feed that hunger — it exposes it.

2. Work keeps us in control. When you're managing a project, you hold the pen. You make the calls. You set the timeline.

Prayer requires the opposite posture. It requires you to come to Someone greater than yourself, admit you don't have all the answers, and wait. For a man wired to lead and fix and solve — that is genuinely uncomfortable. We don't like waiting. We don't like not knowing. And prayer, at its core, is an act of surrender.

3. Work keeps us from the conversation we're afraid to have. Here's the one most men won't say out loud: sometimes we stay busy because being still means being honest. And being honest with God means the real stuff surfaces — the fear, the failure, the sin we've been managing around, the doubt we've never admitted to anyone.

A project never asks you how you're really doing. God always does.

 

The Deeper Problem

When a man substitutes work for prayer, he doesn't just miss out on rest — he starts running on his own fuel. And a man running on his own fuel will eventually hit empty at exactly the wrong moment.

Every great project built without a foundation of prayer is just a man's plan with God's name on it.

Moses didn't lead two million people through the desert on strategy. David didn't defeat Goliath on confidence. Nehemiah didn't rebuild the wall on project management skills. Each of them had one thing in common before the great work began — they had been alone with God long enough to know it was His work and not theirs.

The work they did for God flowed out of the time they spent with God. That order matters more than most men realize.

 

The Gut Check

Ask yourself honestly:

  • When was the last time I prayed longer than I planned for a project?
  • Do I know God's voice — or just His assignments?
  • Am I building His kingdom or building my reputation inside His kingdom?
  • If God called a halt to every ministry project tomorrow, would I still have a relationship with Him — or would I have nothing left to talk about?

 

The Invitation

Jesus didn't say Martha's work was wrong. He said Mary's choice was better.

The better thing is not always the bigger thing. Sometimes the most powerful thing a man can do for God's kingdom is close the laptop, silence the phone, sit down in a quiet room and say —

"I'm here. Not to report. Not to plan. Not to ask for anything. Just — here."

That kind of prayer doesn't feel productive. It doesn't look like much from the outside.

But it is the one thing that turns ordinary men into dangerous ones.

Because a man who knows how to be with God is a man God can trust with the work.

 

Closing Prayer

Lord, forgive me for the times I mistook my busyness for faithfulness. Teach me that You want my presence before You want my productivity. Still the part of me that needs to perform — and grow the part of me that simply needs You. Amen.

 

"Be still and know that I am God." — Psalm 46:10

]]> Garth Heckman false No 460 1695 full Your voice is power! Your voice is power! https://tda.podbean.com/e/your-voice-is-power/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/your-voice-is-power/#comments Mon, 11 May 2026 20:18:32 -0500 tda.podbean.com/810c418f-cd93-3abd-8976-196ff1685de4 The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com 

Garth Heckman

Point 1 — Your Voice Creates Identity in Those Who Have Never Heard Their Name Called Right

One of the deepest wounds of fatherlessness is not just the absence of provision or protection — it is the absence of being named. A father's voice is the first place a child learns who they are. When that voice is gone, the void doesn't stay empty. The street fills it. Culture fills it. Peers fill it. Trauma fills it.

When a man speaks affirmation, correction, vision, and truth into a young person's life — especially a young man who has never had that — it is not a small thing. It is reconstructive. You are not just encouraging someone. You are building an identity that was never built.

"The tongue has the power of life and death." — Proverbs 18:21

Words from the right man at the right moment can redirect an entire life trajectory. Don't underestimate what it means to simply say — "I see you. I believe in you. You have what it takes." Many young men are starving for exactly that sentence from a man they respect.

 

Point 2 — Silence Is Not Neutral — It Is a Decision With Consequences

Many men stay silent because they feel unqualified. They think — "I have my own issues. Who am I to speak into someone else's life?" But in a fatherless generation, a good man's silence is one of the most destructive forces in a community.

When men don't speak up — in homes, in churches, in neighborhoods, in the lives of boys watching them — those boys don't experience a neutral environment. They experience abandonment again. The absence of a voice teaches its own lesson: "You are not worth my words. You are not worth my time."

"And I looked for a man among them who would build up the wall and stand before me in the gap... but I found none." — Ezekiel 22:30

God is not looking for perfect men. He is looking for present ones. Men willing to stand in the gap. The bar is not perfection — it is availability. Your broken, imperfect, still-being-sanctified voice is infinitely more powerful than a polished silence.

 

Point 3 — Your Voice Has a Generational Reach You Cannot Fully See

Most men who step up to speak into a fatherless generation will never know the full weight of what they did. You may pour into a 14-year-old boy for two years and feel like nothing stuck — and then that boy becomes a 30-year-old father who raises his children differently because of something you said that he never forgot.

This is the nature of generational impact. You are not just speaking to the person in front of you. You are speaking to everyone they will ever raise, lead, or influence. The ripple goes further than your eyes can follow.

"A good man leaves an inheritance for his children's children." — Proverbs 13:22

That inheritance is not just financial. It is verbal, moral, and spiritual. Every word of truth, every moment of correction wrapped in love, every time you call out greatness in someone who couldn't see it themselves — that is inheritance. That is legacy. And in a generation starving for fathers, one man with a willing voice can father hundreds without ever being their biological dad.

 

Closing Charge to Men

You did not choose the generation you were born into — but you were placed here on purpose. The fatherlessness around you is not just a social statistic. It is your assignment. Open your mouth. Speak life. Show up. The generation coming behind you is not looking for perfect men. They are simply looking for men who stayed.

]]> The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com 

Garth Heckman

Point 1 — Your Voice Creates Identity in Those Who Have Never Heard Their Name Called Right

One of the deepest wounds of fatherlessness is not just the absence of provision or protection — it is the absence of being named. A father's voice is the first place a child learns who they are. When that voice is gone, the void doesn't stay empty. The street fills it. Culture fills it. Peers fill it. Trauma fills it.

When a man speaks affirmation, correction, vision, and truth into a young person's life — especially a young man who has never had that — it is not a small thing. It is reconstructive. You are not just encouraging someone. You are building an identity that was never built.

"The tongue has the power of life and death." — Proverbs 18:21

Words from the right man at the right moment can redirect an entire life trajectory. Don't underestimate what it means to simply say — "I see you. I believe in you. You have what it takes." Many young men are starving for exactly that sentence from a man they respect.

 

Point 2 — Silence Is Not Neutral — It Is a Decision With Consequences

Many men stay silent because they feel unqualified. They think — "I have my own issues. Who am I to speak into someone else's life?" But in a fatherless generation, a good man's silence is one of the most destructive forces in a community.

When men don't speak up — in homes, in churches, in neighborhoods, in the lives of boys watching them — those boys don't experience a neutral environment. They experience abandonment again. The absence of a voice teaches its own lesson: "You are not worth my words. You are not worth my time."

"And I looked for a man among them who would build up the wall and stand before me in the gap... but I found none." — Ezekiel 22:30

God is not looking for perfect men. He is looking for present ones. Men willing to stand in the gap. The bar is not perfection — it is availability. Your broken, imperfect, still-being-sanctified voice is infinitely more powerful than a polished silence.

 

Point 3 — Your Voice Has a Generational Reach You Cannot Fully See

Most men who step up to speak into a fatherless generation will never know the full weight of what they did. You may pour into a 14-year-old boy for two years and feel like nothing stuck — and then that boy becomes a 30-year-old father who raises his children differently because of something you said that he never forgot.

This is the nature of generational impact. You are not just speaking to the person in front of you. You are speaking to everyone they will ever raise, lead, or influence. The ripple goes further than your eyes can follow.

"A good man leaves an inheritance for his children's children." — Proverbs 13:22

That inheritance is not just financial. It is verbal, moral, and spiritual. Every word of truth, every moment of correction wrapped in love, every time you call out greatness in someone who couldn't see it themselves — that is inheritance. That is legacy. And in a generation starving for fathers, one man with a willing voice can father hundreds without ever being their biological dad.

 

Closing Charge to Men

You did not choose the generation you were born into — but you were placed here on purpose. The fatherlessness around you is not just a social statistic. It is your assignment. Open your mouth. Speak life. Show up. The generation coming behind you is not looking for perfect men. They are simply looking for men who stayed.

]]> Garth Heckman false No 461 1694 full How much DON'T you bench? How much DON'T you bench? https://tda.podbean.com/e/how-much-dont-you-bench/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/how-much-dont-you-bench/#comments Sun, 10 May 2026 18:40:56 -0500 tda.podbean.com/db47e4f9-14be-376b-928f-ccfe42b45f98 The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com 

Garth Heckman

1. Discipline over Impulse: * Weakness is being a slave to your temper or your ego.

  • Strength is having the capacity for fury but the character for peace.
  • The man who cannot control his temper or ego is not free—he is owned. Every outburst hands your power to the moment, the person, or the slight that triggered it.
  • Real strength is keeping a loaded gun in your holster. You retain the capacity for fury (which earns respect when needed), but you keep the character to choose peace. That choice is what separates the slave from the sovereign. Impulse makes you predictable and weak. Discipline makes you dangerous and free.

 

Discipline Over Impulse: The Strength of the Sovereign Man

 

Introduction

There is a lie our culture has accepted — that the loudest man in the room is the strongest. That the one who strikes first, speaks harshest, and bends to every impulse is somehow powerful. But Scripture tells a different story. True strength was never about what you can do. It's about what you choose not to do.

 

Point 1 — The Slave and the Sovereign

"Like a city whose walls are broken through is a person who lacks self-control." — Proverbs 25:28

A city with no walls isn't free — it's exposed. Vulnerable to any enemy that wanders by. The man who cannot govern his temper or his ego is the same. Every outburst is a breach in the wall. Every reaction hands your power to the person or moment that triggered it. You think you're expressing strength, but you're actually being owned — by your emotions, by your circumstances, by whoever knows which buttons to push.

The slave obeys every impulse. The sovereign chooses his response.

 

Point 2 — The Loaded Gun in the Holster

"Better a patient man than a warrior, a man who controls his temper than one who takes a city." — Proverbs 16:32

Restraint is not weakness. It is disciplined capacity. There is a profound difference between a man who is peaceful because he has no power, and a man who is peaceful because he has mastered it. One is gentle by default. The other is gentle by decision.

God isn't calling us to be toothless. He's calling us to be trustworthy with teeth. The lion doesn't prove itself by attacking every creature it meets — its restraint is part of what makes it formidable. Keep the capacity for fury. Earn the character for peace. That combination commands respect in a way that raw aggression never will.

 

Point 3 — Impulse Makes You Predictable, Discipline Makes You Free

"A hot-tempered person stirs up conflict, but the one who is patient calms a quarrel." — Proverbs 15:18

When you live by impulse, you become readable. Anyone who wants to manipulate you simply needs to poke the right nerve. Your anger becomes their weapon. But the disciplined man is unpredictable in the best way — because he doesn't respond, he decides. He separates the stimulus from the response and in that space, lives his freedom.

This is what the fruit of the Spirit is really describing in Galatians 5 — self-control isn't listed last because it matters least. It's listed last because it holds everything else together. Love, joy, peace — none of those survive without the man who can govern himself.

 

Conclusion

The world will tell you to let it out, follow your heart, say what you feel. But undisciplined men don't build anything lasting — not families, not legacies, not kingdoms. The sovereign man understands that every time he chooses discipline over impulse, he reclaims a piece of himself that the moment was trying to steal. You were not made to be owned by your emotions. You were made to rule them — and in doing so, to be trusted with far greater things.

 

]]> The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com 

Garth Heckman

1. Discipline over Impulse: * Weakness is being a slave to your temper or your ego.

  • Strength is having the capacity for fury but the character for peace.
  • The man who cannot control his temper or ego is not free—he is owned. Every outburst hands your power to the moment, the person, or the slight that triggered it.
  • Real strength is keeping a loaded gun in your holster. You retain the capacity for fury (which earns respect when needed), but you keep the character to choose peace. That choice is what separates the slave from the sovereign. Impulse makes you predictable and weak. Discipline makes you dangerous and free.

 

Discipline Over Impulse: The Strength of the Sovereign Man

 

Introduction

There is a lie our culture has accepted — that the loudest man in the room is the strongest. That the one who strikes first, speaks harshest, and bends to every impulse is somehow powerful. But Scripture tells a different story. True strength was never about what you can do. It's about what you choose not to do.

 

Point 1 — The Slave and the Sovereign

"Like a city whose walls are broken through is a person who lacks self-control." — Proverbs 25:28

A city with no walls isn't free — it's exposed. Vulnerable to any enemy that wanders by. The man who cannot govern his temper or his ego is the same. Every outburst is a breach in the wall. Every reaction hands your power to the person or moment that triggered it. You think you're expressing strength, but you're actually being owned — by your emotions, by your circumstances, by whoever knows which buttons to push.

The slave obeys every impulse. The sovereign chooses his response.

 

Point 2 — The Loaded Gun in the Holster

"Better a patient man than a warrior, a man who controls his temper than one who takes a city." — Proverbs 16:32

Restraint is not weakness. It is disciplined capacity. There is a profound difference between a man who is peaceful because he has no power, and a man who is peaceful because he has mastered it. One is gentle by default. The other is gentle by decision.

God isn't calling us to be toothless. He's calling us to be trustworthy with teeth. The lion doesn't prove itself by attacking every creature it meets — its restraint is part of what makes it formidable. Keep the capacity for fury. Earn the character for peace. That combination commands respect in a way that raw aggression never will.

 

Point 3 — Impulse Makes You Predictable, Discipline Makes You Free

"A hot-tempered person stirs up conflict, but the one who is patient calms a quarrel." — Proverbs 15:18

When you live by impulse, you become readable. Anyone who wants to manipulate you simply needs to poke the right nerve. Your anger becomes their weapon. But the disciplined man is unpredictable in the best way — because he doesn't respond, he decides. He separates the stimulus from the response and in that space, lives his freedom.

This is what the fruit of the Spirit is really describing in Galatians 5 — self-control isn't listed last because it matters least. It's listed last because it holds everything else together. Love, joy, peace — none of those survive without the man who can govern himself.

 

Conclusion

The world will tell you to let it out, follow your heart, say what you feel. But undisciplined men don't build anything lasting — not families, not legacies, not kingdoms. The sovereign man understands that every time he chooses discipline over impulse, he reclaims a piece of himself that the moment was trying to steal. You were not made to be owned by your emotions. You were made to rule them — and in doing so, to be trusted with far greater things.

 

]]> Garth Heckman false No 461 1693 full Jesus says "Dust'em off!" Jesus says "Dust'em off!" https://tda.podbean.com/e/jesus-says-dustem-off/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/jesus-says-dustem-off/#comments Tue, 05 May 2026 19:54:15 -0500 tda.podbean.com/5fee67e6-692f-3ba9-92a2-b272413c8cef Garth Heckman

The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com 

 

 

#The brotherhood manifesto

#TripleCsurvivor 

 

Canker sores

 

Mark 6:10 Also He said to them, “In whatever place you enter a house, stay there till you depart from that place. 11 And whoever will not receive you nor hear you, when you depart from there, shake off the dust under your feet as a testimony against them. Assuredly, I say to you, it will be more tolerable for Sodom and Gomorrah in the day of judgment than for that city!”

 

1. Release Responsibility — You Are Called to Deliver, Not Convince

 

Jesus draws a hard line:

You are responsible for faithful delivery, not forced results.

 

The disciples were sent to preach, heal, and proclaim—but not to argue people into belief. When rejection came, they weren’t told to try harder… they were told to move on.

 

Core truth:

 

Rejection of the message is not failure of the messenger.

 

This protects you from:

 

Emotional burnout

Needing validation

Over-investing in resistant people

 

Application (especially for you as a leader/coach):

You can preach truth, coach men, build movements—but you cannot make a man receive it. Some people are assignments… others are distractions.

 

2. Refuse Contamination — Don’t Carry What You Were Never Meant to Keep

 

In Jewish culture, shaking dust off your feet was symbolic:

“I will not even carry the residue of this place with me.”

 

Jesus is teaching:

 

Don’t carry rejection into your next assignment

Don’t let offense poison your spirit

Don’t let one closed door affect your next open one

 

Core truth:

 

What you carry forward will either fuel you or infect you.

 

If you don’t “shake it off,” you’ll bring:

 

Bitterness into your next conversation

Hesitation into your next opportunity

Distrust into your next relationship

 

Application:

Every leader must develop the discipline of **emotional clearance**:

 

Release the offense

Drop the disappointment

Refuse to rehearse the rejection

 

You don’t need closure—you need clean feet.

 

3. Recognize Judgment — Rejection of Truth Has Consequences

 

Jesus says something intense:

It will be **worse than Sodom and Gomorrah for those who reject the message.

 

That means:

 

Rejecting truth is not neutral

Ignoring God’s invitation is a serious decision

Accountability increases with exposure

 

Shaking the dust wasn’t just emotional—it was a testimony:

 

“You had your opportunity.”

 

Core truth:

 

Light rejected becomes judgment received.

 

This gives weight to your mission:

 

What you carry matters

What people do with it matters even more

 

Application:

This should produce:

 

Urgency in your message

Clarity in your communication

Peace in your departure

 

You don’t leave bitter—you leave **witnessing**.

 

 

 Closing Statement (Sermon Punch)

 

 “I will not beg where I was sent to bless.

 I will not carry what tried to bury me.

 And I will not stay where God said move.”

]]> Garth Heckman

The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com 

 

 

#The brotherhood manifesto

#TripleCsurvivor 

 

Canker sores

 

Mark 6:10 Also He said to them, “In whatever place you enter a house, stay there till you depart from that place. 11 And whoever will not receive you nor hear you, when you depart from there, shake off the dust under your feet as a testimony against them. Assuredly, I say to you, it will be more tolerable for Sodom and Gomorrah in the day of judgment than for that city!”

 

1. Release Responsibility — You Are Called to Deliver, Not Convince

 

Jesus draws a hard line:

You are responsible for faithful delivery, not forced results.

 

The disciples were sent to preach, heal, and proclaim—but not to argue people into belief. When rejection came, they weren’t told to try harder… they were told to move on.

 

Core truth:

 

Rejection of the message is not failure of the messenger.

 

This protects you from:

 

Emotional burnout

Needing validation

Over-investing in resistant people

 

Application (especially for you as a leader/coach):

You can preach truth, coach men, build movements—but you cannot make a man receive it. Some people are assignments… others are distractions.

 

2. Refuse Contamination — Don’t Carry What You Were Never Meant to Keep

 

In Jewish culture, shaking dust off your feet was symbolic:

“I will not even carry the residue of this place with me.”

 

Jesus is teaching:

 

Don’t carry rejection into your next assignment

Don’t let offense poison your spirit

Don’t let one closed door affect your next open one

 

Core truth:

 

What you carry forward will either fuel you or infect you.

 

If you don’t “shake it off,” you’ll bring:

 

Bitterness into your next conversation

Hesitation into your next opportunity

Distrust into your next relationship

 

Application:

Every leader must develop the discipline of **emotional clearance**:

 

Release the offense

Drop the disappointment

Refuse to rehearse the rejection

 

You don’t need closure—you need clean feet.

 

3. Recognize Judgment — Rejection of Truth Has Consequences

 

Jesus says something intense:

It will be **worse than Sodom and Gomorrah for those who reject the message.

 

That means:

 

Rejecting truth is not neutral

Ignoring God’s invitation is a serious decision

Accountability increases with exposure

 

Shaking the dust wasn’t just emotional—it was a testimony:

 

“You had your opportunity.”

 

Core truth:

 

Light rejected becomes judgment received.

 

This gives weight to your mission:

 

What you carry matters

What people do with it matters even more

 

Application:

This should produce:

 

Urgency in your message

Clarity in your communication

Peace in your departure

 

You don’t leave bitter—you leave **witnessing**.

 

 

 Closing Statement (Sermon Punch)

 

 “I will not beg where I was sent to bless.

 I will not carry what tried to bury me.

 And I will not stay where God said move.”

]]> Garth Heckman false No 465 1692 full Stoned, but not stopped! Stoned, but not stopped! https://tda.podbean.com/e/stoned-but-not-stopped/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/stoned-but-not-stopped/#comments Mon, 04 May 2026 18:42:59 -0500 tda.podbean.com/1d655db0-b896-3c9d-8f7d-c2f7312371d2 Garth Heckman

The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com 

 

 

#The brotherhood manifesto

#TripleCsurvivor 

 

 

Acts 14

19 Then Jews from Antioch and Iconium came there; and having persuaded the multitudes, they stoned Paul and dragged him out of the city, supposing him to be dead. 20 However, when the disciples gathered around him, he rose up and went into the city. And the next day he departed with Barnabas to Derbe.

1. Persecution is Real, But God’s Purpose is Greater

Paul faced brutal opposition—Jews from previous cities followed him, stirred up the crowd, and stoned him, dragging his body outside the city gates thinking he was dead. This shows the cost of bold gospel preaching. Yet Paul’s story reminds us that opposition does not equal defeat. God can sustain His servants through physical danger, rejection, and apparent failure.

Application: When you face pushback for your faith—at work, in relationships, or in culture—remember Paul. The same God who preserved him is with you. Difficulty doesn’t mean you missed God’s will; it may confirm you’re on the right path.

2. The Strength of Community and the Power of Getting Back Up

After the stoning, the disciples gathered around Paul, and “he rose up.” The text doesn’t say an angel appeared or a dramatic miracle was described—simply that faithful believers surrounded him, and he got back on his feet.

This highlights two powerful truths:

 

We need each other. Isolation makes recovery harder.

God often uses ordinary acts of faithfulness (gathering, praying, encouraging) to bring supernatural strength.

 

Application: Don’t try to endure hardship alone. Surround yourself with disciples of Jesus, and be the kind of person who runs toward the hurting instead of away from them. God specializes in raising up what the world writes off as finished.

3. The Mission Continues—Don’t Stay Down

The very next day, Paul got up, went back into the city (the same place that tried to kill him), and then traveled on with Barnabas to Derbe. He didn’t quit, hide, or take an extended break. His resilience propelled the gospel forward.

This is a picture of relentless obedience. The enemy’s best shot wasn’t enough to stop God’s plan.

Application: What “stoning” have you experienced—failure, criticism, health issues, betrayal? Paul shows us the next faithful step is often just getting up and taking the next step in obedience. The mission is bigger than our wounds. Keep moving forward.

Key Takeaway for the Whole Passage:

Faithfulness to Jesus doesn’t guarantee safety, but it does guarantee that God can turn even stoning into a stepping stone for greater impact. Like Paul, may we rise up, lean on the community of believers, and keep advancing the gospel no matter the cost.

]]> Garth Heckman

The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com 

 

 

#The brotherhood manifesto

#TripleCsurvivor 

 

 

Acts 14

19 Then Jews from Antioch and Iconium came there; and having persuaded the multitudes, they stoned Paul and dragged him out of the city, supposing him to be dead. 20 However, when the disciples gathered around him, he rose up and went into the city. And the next day he departed with Barnabas to Derbe.

1. Persecution is Real, But God’s Purpose is Greater

Paul faced brutal opposition—Jews from previous cities followed him, stirred up the crowd, and stoned him, dragging his body outside the city gates thinking he was dead. This shows the cost of bold gospel preaching. Yet Paul’s story reminds us that opposition does not equal defeat. God can sustain His servants through physical danger, rejection, and apparent failure.

Application: When you face pushback for your faith—at work, in relationships, or in culture—remember Paul. The same God who preserved him is with you. Difficulty doesn’t mean you missed God’s will; it may confirm you’re on the right path.

2. The Strength of Community and the Power of Getting Back Up

After the stoning, the disciples gathered around Paul, and “he rose up.” The text doesn’t say an angel appeared or a dramatic miracle was described—simply that faithful believers surrounded him, and he got back on his feet.

This highlights two powerful truths:

 

We need each other. Isolation makes recovery harder.

God often uses ordinary acts of faithfulness (gathering, praying, encouraging) to bring supernatural strength.

 

Application: Don’t try to endure hardship alone. Surround yourself with disciples of Jesus, and be the kind of person who runs toward the hurting instead of away from them. God specializes in raising up what the world writes off as finished.

3. The Mission Continues—Don’t Stay Down

The very next day, Paul got up, went back into the city (the same place that tried to kill him), and then traveled on with Barnabas to Derbe. He didn’t quit, hide, or take an extended break. His resilience propelled the gospel forward.

This is a picture of relentless obedience. The enemy’s best shot wasn’t enough to stop God’s plan.

Application: What “stoning” have you experienced—failure, criticism, health issues, betrayal? Paul shows us the next faithful step is often just getting up and taking the next step in obedience. The mission is bigger than our wounds. Keep moving forward.

Key Takeaway for the Whole Passage:

Faithfulness to Jesus doesn’t guarantee safety, but it does guarantee that God can turn even stoning into a stepping stone for greater impact. Like Paul, may we rise up, lean on the community of believers, and keep advancing the gospel no matter the cost.

]]> Garth Heckman false No 459 1691 full Anybody, Nobody, Somebody! Anybody, Nobody, Somebody! https://tda.podbean.com/e/anybody-nobody-somebody/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/anybody-nobody-somebody/#comments Sun, 03 May 2026 19:58:27 -0500 tda.podbean.com/518a6828-8cab-3ed2-89c9-7ce367e681fd Garth Heckman

The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com 

 

 

#The brotherhood manifesto

#TripleCsurvivor 

 

 

Two mistakes in a mans life… caring about what everybody thinks… and Not caring about what anybody thinks. Both are extreme traps…

What if you cared about what certain men in your life thought… men who were involved in a deep spiritual walk, men who were committed family men, men who were not ashamed of the gospel? What if you cared what they thought? 

 

Men in todays world can make the mistake of looking for everyone's approval or not caring about anyones approval like personal autonomy. both have dangers. Can you give me a few talking points on this subject?Here are some clear, balanced talking points on the tension between seeking everyone's approval versus caring about no one's approval (extreme personal autonomy). Both extremes are common traps for men today, and both carry real dangers. You can use these as notes for a conversation, podcast, article, or self-reflection.

 

1. The Approval-Seeking Trap (People-Pleasing)

 

Modern culture (social media, corporate environments, dating apps) rewards constant validation-seeking. Likes, shares, and "being nice" get rewarded in the short term.

Dangers:

Loss of self: You slowly abandon your own values, goals, and boundaries to avoid conflict or disapproval.

Resentment buildup: Constantly suppressing your real thoughts leads to quiet frustration and eventual blow-ups or burnout.

Weakness signal: People (especially women and other men) subconsciously lose respect for men who need universal approval. It reads as low confidence and low status.

Manipulation vulnerability: You're easily controlled by bosses, partners, friends, or social pressure.

 

Extreme version: The "nice guy" who finishes last because he has no spine.

 

2. The "I Don't Care What Anyone Thinks" Trap (False Autonomy)

 

This often comes as a backlash — "I'm sigma," "I'm my own man," "society is lame." It feels empowering at first.

Dangers:

Social isolation: Humans are tribal. Complete disregard for others' opinions cuts you off from feedback, alliances, and opportunities.

Blind spots: No one is 100% objective. Rejecting all input means you never correct course on bad habits, poor decisions, or character flaws.

Arrogance and immaturity: It can mask insecurity or emotional stuntedness ("If I pretend I don't care, I can't get hurt").

Practical failure: Career, relationships, and reputation suffer when you alienate everyone. Even high-agency men need sponsors, mentors, partners, and networks.

Extreme version: The lone wolf who ends up bitter, alone, and wondering why life is so hard.

 

 

3. The Healthy Middle Path: Selective Approval + Inner Sovereignty

 

Strong men care deeply about the opinions of a small, high-quality circle — not everyone.

Whose approval should matter? Your own (first), then people you respect: mentors, close friends with character, family worth keeping, romantic partners who have earned it, and competent colleagues.

Whose approval should not matter? Random strangers online, low-character people, ideological enforcers, or those who don't have skin in the game with you.

 

Key principle: Internal locus of control combined with reality-testing.

Judge yourself primarily by your own standards and results, not feelings or popularity.

Use selective external feedback as data, not as your compass.

 

This builds real confidence: You're not fragile to criticism, but you're not delusional either.

 

4. Practical Advice for Men Today

 

Build a personal code or mission that is non-negotiable. When your actions align with it, external noise loses power.

Practice "strategic disagreement": Be willing to politely say no or hold an unpopular view when it matters. This earns respect faster than constant agreement.

Develop thick skin through exposure: Lift weights, take cold showers, face rejection deliberately (e.g., cold approaching, sales, public speaking). Emotional calluses help.

Audit your relationships: Distance from chronic critics who drain you; invest in reciprocal relationships where honest feedback flows both ways.

Remember biology and reality: Men are wired for status and competence more than constant emotional harmony. Chasing universal approval often clashes with masculine drive.

 

5. One-Liner Talking Points You Can Drop

 

"Seeking everyone's approval makes you a slave. Caring about no one's approval makes you a fool."

"The mature man doesn't need the world's permission — but he isn't too proud to learn from worthy sources."

"True autonomy isn't 'I don't care.' It's 'I care about the right things, from the right people.'"

"Approval addiction is quiet self-betrayal. Total detachment is quiet self-sabotage."

"Respect is earned through integrity and competence, not through people-pleasing or edgelord posturing."

]]> Garth Heckman

The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com 

 

 

#The brotherhood manifesto

#TripleCsurvivor 

 

 

Two mistakes in a mans life… caring about what everybody thinks… and Not caring about what anybody thinks. Both are extreme traps…

What if you cared about what certain men in your life thought… men who were involved in a deep spiritual walk, men who were committed family men, men who were not ashamed of the gospel? What if you cared what they thought? 

 

Men in todays world can make the mistake of looking for everyone's approval or not caring about anyones approval like personal autonomy. both have dangers. Can you give me a few talking points on this subject?Here are some clear, balanced talking points on the tension between seeking everyone's approval versus caring about no one's approval (extreme personal autonomy). Both extremes are common traps for men today, and both carry real dangers. You can use these as notes for a conversation, podcast, article, or self-reflection.

 

1. The Approval-Seeking Trap (People-Pleasing)

 

Modern culture (social media, corporate environments, dating apps) rewards constant validation-seeking. Likes, shares, and "being nice" get rewarded in the short term.

Dangers:

Loss of self: You slowly abandon your own values, goals, and boundaries to avoid conflict or disapproval.

Resentment buildup: Constantly suppressing your real thoughts leads to quiet frustration and eventual blow-ups or burnout.

Weakness signal: People (especially women and other men) subconsciously lose respect for men who need universal approval. It reads as low confidence and low status.

Manipulation vulnerability: You're easily controlled by bosses, partners, friends, or social pressure.

 

Extreme version: The "nice guy" who finishes last because he has no spine.

 

2. The "I Don't Care What Anyone Thinks" Trap (False Autonomy)

 

This often comes as a backlash — "I'm sigma," "I'm my own man," "society is lame." It feels empowering at first.

Dangers:

Social isolation: Humans are tribal. Complete disregard for others' opinions cuts you off from feedback, alliances, and opportunities.

Blind spots: No one is 100% objective. Rejecting all input means you never correct course on bad habits, poor decisions, or character flaws.

Arrogance and immaturity: It can mask insecurity or emotional stuntedness ("If I pretend I don't care, I can't get hurt").

Practical failure: Career, relationships, and reputation suffer when you alienate everyone. Even high-agency men need sponsors, mentors, partners, and networks.

Extreme version: The lone wolf who ends up bitter, alone, and wondering why life is so hard.

 

 

3. The Healthy Middle Path: Selective Approval + Inner Sovereignty

 

Strong men care deeply about the opinions of a small, high-quality circle — not everyone.

Whose approval should matter? Your own (first), then people you respect: mentors, close friends with character, family worth keeping, romantic partners who have earned it, and competent colleagues.

Whose approval should not matter? Random strangers online, low-character people, ideological enforcers, or those who don't have skin in the game with you.

 

Key principle: Internal locus of control combined with reality-testing.

Judge yourself primarily by your own standards and results, not feelings or popularity.

Use selective external feedback as data, not as your compass.

 

This builds real confidence: You're not fragile to criticism, but you're not delusional either.

 

4. Practical Advice for Men Today

 

Build a personal code or mission that is non-negotiable. When your actions align with it, external noise loses power.

Practice "strategic disagreement": Be willing to politely say no or hold an unpopular view when it matters. This earns respect faster than constant agreement.

Develop thick skin through exposure: Lift weights, take cold showers, face rejection deliberately (e.g., cold approaching, sales, public speaking). Emotional calluses help.

Audit your relationships: Distance from chronic critics who drain you; invest in reciprocal relationships where honest feedback flows both ways.

Remember biology and reality: Men are wired for status and competence more than constant emotional harmony. Chasing universal approval often clashes with masculine drive.

 

5. One-Liner Talking Points You Can Drop

 

"Seeking everyone's approval makes you a slave. Caring about no one's approval makes you a fool."

"The mature man doesn't need the world's permission — but he isn't too proud to learn from worthy sources."

"True autonomy isn't 'I don't care.' It's 'I care about the right things, from the right people.'"

"Approval addiction is quiet self-betrayal. Total detachment is quiet self-sabotage."

"Respect is earned through integrity and competence, not through people-pleasing or edgelord posturing."

]]> Garth Heckman false No 460 1690 full A to B is not as easy as ABC A to B is not as easy as ABC https://tda.podbean.com/e/a-to-b-is-not-as-easy-as-abc/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/a-to-b-is-not-as-easy-as-abc/#comments Thu, 30 Apr 2026 19:51:04 -0500 tda.podbean.com/03529fd5-6506-35b5-9f36-1d65fc60056a Garth Heckman

The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com 

 

 

#The brotherhood manifesto

#TripleCsurvivor 

 

 

Ever stop and ask someone for directions and they start out calling out numbers, highways, street names etc… and your like whoa wait just a second… how about you give them to me like this…

 

Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the Lord with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding;

6 

In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths.

 

 

The fastest way from A to B is a straight line… not so fast there skippy. That is not always the case. 

 

Lean not on your own understanding… You may think you see the fastest way, it may actually be a straight line.. but unless it is Gods plan, you are fooling yourself. 

 

 

The loom affect

The trajectory of a bullet Parbolic arc

]]> Garth Heckman

The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com 

 

 

#The brotherhood manifesto

#TripleCsurvivor 

 

 

Ever stop and ask someone for directions and they start out calling out numbers, highways, street names etc… and your like whoa wait just a second… how about you give them to me like this…

 

Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the Lord with all your heart,
And lean not on your own understanding;

6 

In all your ways acknowledge Him,
And He shall direct your paths.

 

 

The fastest way from A to B is a straight line… not so fast there skippy. That is not always the case. 

 

Lean not on your own understanding… You may think you see the fastest way, it may actually be a straight line.. but unless it is Gods plan, you are fooling yourself. 

 

 

The loom affect

The trajectory of a bullet Parbolic arc

]]> Garth Heckman false No 456 1689 full The Imposter Syndrome The Imposter Syndrome https://tda.podbean.com/e/the-imposter-syndrome/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/the-imposter-syndrome/#comments Tue, 28 Apr 2026 19:09:53 -0500 tda.podbean.com/4e3d8302-3bfd-348e-8656-99bc4c5473c6 Garth Heckman

The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com 

 

 

#The brotherhood manifesto

#TripleCsurvivor 

 

Jesus spoke the truth even when it hurt. To the Pharisees, to the people of didn’t understand he was the bread of life, to the disciples… who do people say I am.. to Peter - get behind me satan, to Peter again you will deny me… he did not hold back. I belive he always spoke it in love, but nonetheless he spoke it. `

 

This is the "Hidden Invoice" for the leader. While you’ve focused on the financial cost to the company, the personal cost is often more devastating because it’s a slow-motion erosion of your professional soul. A banana in your backpack. 

 

As a powerlifter, you know that if you have a hitch in your technique, you can muscle through it for a while—but eventually, that technical flaw becomes an injury that ends your career. Leadership is no different.

 

1. Burnout via "Emotional Friction"

Avoidance is actually more exhausting than confrontation.

  • The Insight: When a leader ignores a culture issue (like a Gen Z employee checking out), they don't actually stop thinking about it. They spend cognitive energy rehearsing conversations they never have, worrying about the "Contagion Effect," and managing the fallout of the dysfunction.

 

  • The Personal Cost: This constant "mental background noise" is what leads to burnout. You aren't tired from the work; you are tired from the friction of the things you aren't saying.

 

2. The Feedback Loop of Imposter Syndrome

In your notes, you mentioned that Accountability must be seen in the top tier. When a leader fails to address a toxic team member or a lack of clarity, they know they aren't living up to their own standard.

 

  • The Insight: Every time you avoid a hard truth, you send a signal to your own brain: "I am not actually in control here." * The Personal Cost: This creates Imposter Syndrome. You feel like a fraud because you are wearing the "Boss" title but refusing to do the "Boss" work (which is the hard, honest conversations). You stop trusting your own judgment because you’ve stopped acting on it.

 

3. Career Stagnation & "Reputational Gravity"

In the 2026 workforce, a leader’s "Vessel" (their reputation) is their most valuable asset.

  • The Insight: People talk. If you are a leader who allows "Ambiguity Tax" to run rampant or ignores "Ethical Dissonance," that becomes your brand. High-performers (the "Gold Standards") will stop wanting to work for you.
  • The Personal Cost: You find yourself "stuck" managing a team of C-players because the A-players have all fled. Your career stagnates because you can't hit the "High-Velocity" goals that get you to the next level. You become the leader of a "holding pattern" department.

 

4. The "Relational Debt" at Home

This ties directly into your focus on how work helps real life.

  • The Insight: You cannot turn off the "Avoidance Mindset" at 5:00 PM. If you are avoiding the truth with your Gen Z employees, you are likely training your brain to avoid the truth with your spouse and children.
  • The Personal Cost: The stress of the "Unsaid" follows you home. You are physically present but mentally "reading the room" of your own household, looking for the same cracks you ignored at the office.

 

The "Diagnostic" for the Leader

In your speech, you can give them this brutal metric to measure their own personal cost:

"Look at the one conversation you’ve been avoiding for the last month. The mental energy you’ve spent avoiding it is likely 10x more than the energy it would take to actually have it. Avoidance is a high-interest loan; Truth is a one-time payment. Which one are you paying today?"

 

]]> Garth Heckman

The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com 

 

 

#The brotherhood manifesto

#TripleCsurvivor 

 

Jesus spoke the truth even when it hurt. To the Pharisees, to the people of didn’t understand he was the bread of life, to the disciples… who do people say I am.. to Peter - get behind me satan, to Peter again you will deny me… he did not hold back. I belive he always spoke it in love, but nonetheless he spoke it. `

 

This is the "Hidden Invoice" for the leader. While you’ve focused on the financial cost to the company, the personal cost is often more devastating because it’s a slow-motion erosion of your professional soul. A banana in your backpack. 

 

As a powerlifter, you know that if you have a hitch in your technique, you can muscle through it for a while—but eventually, that technical flaw becomes an injury that ends your career. Leadership is no different.

 

1. Burnout via "Emotional Friction"

Avoidance is actually more exhausting than confrontation.

  • The Insight: When a leader ignores a culture issue (like a Gen Z employee checking out), they don't actually stop thinking about it. They spend cognitive energy rehearsing conversations they never have, worrying about the "Contagion Effect," and managing the fallout of the dysfunction.

 

  • The Personal Cost: This constant "mental background noise" is what leads to burnout. You aren't tired from the work; you are tired from the friction of the things you aren't saying.

 

2. The Feedback Loop of Imposter Syndrome

In your notes, you mentioned that Accountability must be seen in the top tier. When a leader fails to address a toxic team member or a lack of clarity, they know they aren't living up to their own standard.

 

  • The Insight: Every time you avoid a hard truth, you send a signal to your own brain: "I am not actually in control here." * The Personal Cost: This creates Imposter Syndrome. You feel like a fraud because you are wearing the "Boss" title but refusing to do the "Boss" work (which is the hard, honest conversations). You stop trusting your own judgment because you’ve stopped acting on it.

 

3. Career Stagnation & "Reputational Gravity"

In the 2026 workforce, a leader’s "Vessel" (their reputation) is their most valuable asset.

  • The Insight: People talk. If you are a leader who allows "Ambiguity Tax" to run rampant or ignores "Ethical Dissonance," that becomes your brand. High-performers (the "Gold Standards") will stop wanting to work for you.
  • The Personal Cost: You find yourself "stuck" managing a team of C-players because the A-players have all fled. Your career stagnates because you can't hit the "High-Velocity" goals that get you to the next level. You become the leader of a "holding pattern" department.

 

4. The "Relational Debt" at Home

This ties directly into your focus on how work helps real life.

  • The Insight: You cannot turn off the "Avoidance Mindset" at 5:00 PM. If you are avoiding the truth with your Gen Z employees, you are likely training your brain to avoid the truth with your spouse and children.
  • The Personal Cost: The stress of the "Unsaid" follows you home. You are physically present but mentally "reading the room" of your own household, looking for the same cracks you ignored at the office.

 

The "Diagnostic" for the Leader

In your speech, you can give them this brutal metric to measure their own personal cost:

"Look at the one conversation you’ve been avoiding for the last month. The mental energy you’ve spent avoiding it is likely 10x more than the energy it would take to actually have it. Avoidance is a high-interest loan; Truth is a one-time payment. Which one are you paying today?"

 

]]> Garth Heckman false No 448 1688 full Fourth down and Bench Press? Fourth down and Bench Press? https://tda.podbean.com/e/fourth-down-and-bench-press/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/fourth-down-and-bench-press/#comments Mon, 27 Apr 2026 20:11:33 -0500 tda.podbean.com/8e5c17bb-83c7-3f71-8b31-1cff2f13992c Garth Heckman

The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com 

 

The NFL Draft…. 

 

Yesterday I got a new computer… no more lag time, no more excuses, no more late podcasts…

 

#The brotherhood manifesto

#TripleCsurvivor 

 

Westside training… its not how fast or how strong, its how long

 

 

1. Endurance Builds Christlike Character and Maturity

 

The Bible repeatedly links endurance (or perseverance) with spiritual growth and maturity. James 1:2-4 says:

"Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing."

Just like physical muscles grow stronger through resistance and stress, a man’s faith is forged in trials, temptations, and long seasons of waiting. Endurance teaches patience, self-control, and reliance on God rather than quick fixes or emotional highs.

For Christian men, this is especially vital in roles as leaders, providers, and protectors—where short-term comfort often clashes with long-term faithfulness (e.g., staying committed in marriage, raising children, or standing firm at work).

 

2. Endurance Equips Men to Finish the Race God Has Set Before Them

 

Scripture portrays the Christian life as a marathon, not a sprint. Hebrews 12:1-2 urges:

"Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith..."

Men are called to lead with vision and consistency over decades—through financial pressure, spiritual warfare, family challenges, and cultural opposition. Without endurance, many start strong but quit when it gets hard (ministry burnout, marital struggles, or discipleship fatigue are common pitfalls).

Building this "muscle" means training through daily disciplines like prayer, Scripture, accountability, and obedience, so you cross the finish line faithful, not just enthusiastic at the start.

 

3. Endurance Demonstrates Faithfulness and Brings Eternal Reward

 

Endurance proves genuine faith and glorifies God. Jesus said in Matthew 24:13, "But the one who endures to the end will be saved." Revelation also promises rewards to "him who overcomes" (a theme tied to endurance).

In a culture that celebrates quitting when things feel unfulfilling, a man who endures models the steadfast love of Christ (who endured the cross for us). This strength inspires his wife, children, and church community.

Practically, it counters the "spiritual ADHD" many men face—hopping between churches, commitments, or passions—and instead cultivates deep roots that produce lasting fruit for God’s kingdom.

 

Practical takeaway for building this muscle:

Treat endurance like physical training—start small, stay consistent, embrace resistance (trials as workouts), and recover with God’s grace (Sabbath, community, repentance). Over time, it turns weak resolve into unbreakable spiritual strength.

If you'd like Bible verses expanded, practical exercises, or how this ties into specific areas like marriage or fatherhood, just let me know!You've reached your full speed limit. We've moved you to a slower speed for now. Upgrade to SuperGrok for much faster reply speed.

]]> Garth Heckman

The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com 

 

The NFL Draft…. 

 

Yesterday I got a new computer… no more lag time, no more excuses, no more late podcasts…

 

#The brotherhood manifesto

#TripleCsurvivor 

 

Westside training… its not how fast or how strong, its how long

 

 

1. Endurance Builds Christlike Character and Maturity

 

The Bible repeatedly links endurance (or perseverance) with spiritual growth and maturity. James 1:2-4 says:

"Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing."

Just like physical muscles grow stronger through resistance and stress, a man’s faith is forged in trials, temptations, and long seasons of waiting. Endurance teaches patience, self-control, and reliance on God rather than quick fixes or emotional highs.

For Christian men, this is especially vital in roles as leaders, providers, and protectors—where short-term comfort often clashes with long-term faithfulness (e.g., staying committed in marriage, raising children, or standing firm at work).

 

2. Endurance Equips Men to Finish the Race God Has Set Before Them

 

Scripture portrays the Christian life as a marathon, not a sprint. Hebrews 12:1-2 urges:

"Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith..."

Men are called to lead with vision and consistency over decades—through financial pressure, spiritual warfare, family challenges, and cultural opposition. Without endurance, many start strong but quit when it gets hard (ministry burnout, marital struggles, or discipleship fatigue are common pitfalls).

Building this "muscle" means training through daily disciplines like prayer, Scripture, accountability, and obedience, so you cross the finish line faithful, not just enthusiastic at the start.

 

3. Endurance Demonstrates Faithfulness and Brings Eternal Reward

 

Endurance proves genuine faith and glorifies God. Jesus said in Matthew 24:13, "But the one who endures to the end will be saved." Revelation also promises rewards to "him who overcomes" (a theme tied to endurance).

In a culture that celebrates quitting when things feel unfulfilling, a man who endures models the steadfast love of Christ (who endured the cross for us). This strength inspires his wife, children, and church community.

Practically, it counters the "spiritual ADHD" many men face—hopping between churches, commitments, or passions—and instead cultivates deep roots that produce lasting fruit for God’s kingdom.

 

Practical takeaway for building this muscle:

Treat endurance like physical training—start small, stay consistent, embrace resistance (trials as workouts), and recover with God’s grace (Sabbath, community, repentance). Over time, it turns weak resolve into unbreakable spiritual strength.

If you'd like Bible verses expanded, practical exercises, or how this ties into specific areas like marriage or fatherhood, just let me know!You've reached your full speed limit. We've moved you to a slower speed for now. Upgrade to SuperGrok for much faster reply speed.

]]> Garth Heckman false No 459 1687 full The Best Bible Version Ever? The Best Bible Version Ever? https://tda.podbean.com/e/the-best-bible-version-ever/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/the-best-bible-version-ever/#comments Wed, 22 Apr 2026 20:53:06 -0500 tda.podbean.com/a2e4079f-45e3-3ed6-b999-fbb918eaafdd Garth Heckman

The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com 

 

 

#The brotherhood manifesto

#TripleCsurvivor 

 

What’s the best bible? NIV, NLT, GV, NASB, KJV, NKJV, IOU, NBA, NFL or the one I love the Wuest translation…. But you wanna know truly the best bible version? Its the one you read. 

Wuest Study bible is the best near greek experience in English for a bible. 

 

1. The Crisis of Identity (The "Manual" Problem)

Many men today are trying to build lives, careers, and families without ever reading the "manufacturer's instructions." When we don't know the Word, we define our masculinity by cultural trends—which change like the wind—rather than the unchanging character of God.

  • The Result: A generation of men who are "spiritual orphans," unsure of their true calling or value.
  • The Fix: Realizing that the Bible isn't just a history book; it is the primary source for a man's identity.

2. The Erosion of Leadership (The "Compass" Problem)

A man cannot lead his family, his business, or his community to a destination he hasn't seen. Biblical illiteracy leaves men without a moral or spiritual compass. When a crisis hits, an illiterate man reacts based on emotion or instinct rather than responding based on Truth.

  • The Result: Passive leadership at home and a lack of conviction in the public square.
  • The Fix: Internalizing Scripture so that decision-making becomes an act of obedience rather than a guessing game.

3. The Power of the "Sword" (The "Weapon" Problem)

In the New Testament, the Word of God is described as a double-edged sword. A man who doesn't know the Bible is essentially walking onto a battlefield unarmed. We cannot fight temptation, pass on a legacy to our children, or stand firm against injustice if we don't know the promises and commands of God.

  • The Result: Men who are easily discouraged, defeated by habit, and unable to mentor the next generation.
  • The Fix: Moving from "casual reading" to "intentional study," treating the Bible as a vital tool for daily survival and victory.

 

"A Bible that’s falling apart usually belongs to a person who isn’t." — Charles Spurgeon

]]> Garth Heckman

The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com 

 

 

#The brotherhood manifesto

#TripleCsurvivor 

 

What’s the best bible? NIV, NLT, GV, NASB, KJV, NKJV, IOU, NBA, NFL or the one I love the Wuest translation…. But you wanna know truly the best bible version? Its the one you read. 

Wuest Study bible is the best near greek experience in English for a bible. 

 

1. The Crisis of Identity (The "Manual" Problem)

Many men today are trying to build lives, careers, and families without ever reading the "manufacturer's instructions." When we don't know the Word, we define our masculinity by cultural trends—which change like the wind—rather than the unchanging character of God.

  • The Result: A generation of men who are "spiritual orphans," unsure of their true calling or value.
  • The Fix: Realizing that the Bible isn't just a history book; it is the primary source for a man's identity.

2. The Erosion of Leadership (The "Compass" Problem)

A man cannot lead his family, his business, or his community to a destination he hasn't seen. Biblical illiteracy leaves men without a moral or spiritual compass. When a crisis hits, an illiterate man reacts based on emotion or instinct rather than responding based on Truth.

  • The Result: Passive leadership at home and a lack of conviction in the public square.
  • The Fix: Internalizing Scripture so that decision-making becomes an act of obedience rather than a guessing game.

3. The Power of the "Sword" (The "Weapon" Problem)

In the New Testament, the Word of God is described as a double-edged sword. A man who doesn't know the Bible is essentially walking onto a battlefield unarmed. We cannot fight temptation, pass on a legacy to our children, or stand firm against injustice if we don't know the promises and commands of God.

  • The Result: Men who are easily discouraged, defeated by habit, and unable to mentor the next generation.
  • The Fix: Moving from "casual reading" to "intentional study," treating the Bible as a vital tool for daily survival and victory.

 

"A Bible that’s falling apart usually belongs to a person who isn’t." — Charles Spurgeon

]]> Garth Heckman false No 456 1686 full Would you buy it? Would you buy it? https://tda.podbean.com/e/would-you-buy-it/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/would-you-buy-it/#comments Tue, 21 Apr 2026 20:28:57 -0500 tda.podbean.com/39162bf3-51a3-365a-8eee-dbe9bbfe5a7d Garth Heckman

The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com 

 

 

#The brotherhood manifesto

#TripleCsurvivor 

 

So what is it, Garth?

What’s the most powerful question to ask as a salesperson?

And I’m not talking about open-ended or close-ended questions here.

You see, after being in the sales industry for 22 years, and coaching over forty thousand salespeople…

I can tell you with no hesitation that every great salesperson I know asks themselves this question:

“If I were the customer, would I buy this product?”

Think about it.

If the answer is YES.

You’re no longer selling…

You’re simply advising.

You become an advisor, a friend.

This is where selling becomes so easy and natural.

But on the other hand, if your answer is NO.

And if you find yourself trying to convince yourself to not feel guilty about the product you’re selling…

That’s when all the objections, the struggles, and the embarrassing calls start to come up.

Now having said that…

Asking this question is so powerful, but it’s just the first step.

 

I was in a car ride with 2 other youth pastors and the one told me he grew up Christian light with a side of guilt. He would tell people how great Jesus was, and how much love he had for them and how fulfilling he was… but then he added - but not me- he can for you, but it doesn’t work that way for me. He said it took a solid 10 years to try to figure out why it worked for others (and he believed in it, he believed in Christ work on the cross etc…) but it just didn’t seem to work for him. After a long long long walk in faith he realized the difference was he did not fully understand Gods grace. As Spurgeon once said “grace is not grace until it is abused”. He came to realize that his whole walk up to that point was totally dependent on how well he performed. He would not let himself feel saved, righteous, loved fulfilled, hopeful etc… unless he knew he was not sinning for a long time… he had to earn it. Basically this mindset is “oh thanks for what you did on the cross Jesus, but its still completely dependent on wether or not I can earn it. Your death is null and void unless I perform on my end. 

When he finally realized that it had nothing to do with him and all to do what Christ chose to do on the cross - it dug a hole so deep into his heart and filled it with humility…he was so humbled at what God would do for him… knowing he did not deserve it, he could not earn it and even more amazing he could not lose it. When you walk in that… everyone wants what you want. You go from evangelizing and hoping someday you experience what you are telling others - to actually having people see it in your life. 

]]> Garth Heckman

The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com 

 

 

#The brotherhood manifesto

#TripleCsurvivor 

 

So what is it, Garth?

What’s the most powerful question to ask as a salesperson?

And I’m not talking about open-ended or close-ended questions here.

You see, after being in the sales industry for 22 years, and coaching over forty thousand salespeople…

I can tell you with no hesitation that every great salesperson I know asks themselves this question:

“If I were the customer, would I buy this product?”

Think about it.

If the answer is YES.

You’re no longer selling…

You’re simply advising.

You become an advisor, a friend.

This is where selling becomes so easy and natural.

But on the other hand, if your answer is NO.

And if you find yourself trying to convince yourself to not feel guilty about the product you’re selling…

That’s when all the objections, the struggles, and the embarrassing calls start to come up.

Now having said that…

Asking this question is so powerful, but it’s just the first step.

 

I was in a car ride with 2 other youth pastors and the one told me he grew up Christian light with a side of guilt. He would tell people how great Jesus was, and how much love he had for them and how fulfilling he was… but then he added - but not me- he can for you, but it doesn’t work that way for me. He said it took a solid 10 years to try to figure out why it worked for others (and he believed in it, he believed in Christ work on the cross etc…) but it just didn’t seem to work for him. After a long long long walk in faith he realized the difference was he did not fully understand Gods grace. As Spurgeon once said “grace is not grace until it is abused”. He came to realize that his whole walk up to that point was totally dependent on how well he performed. He would not let himself feel saved, righteous, loved fulfilled, hopeful etc… unless he knew he was not sinning for a long time… he had to earn it. Basically this mindset is “oh thanks for what you did on the cross Jesus, but its still completely dependent on wether or not I can earn it. Your death is null and void unless I perform on my end. 

When he finally realized that it had nothing to do with him and all to do what Christ chose to do on the cross - it dug a hole so deep into his heart and filled it with humility…he was so humbled at what God would do for him… knowing he did not deserve it, he could not earn it and even more amazing he could not lose it. When you walk in that… everyone wants what you want. You go from evangelizing and hoping someday you experience what you are telling others - to actually having people see it in your life. 

]]> Garth Heckman false No 460 1685 full What's your catch phrase? What's your catch phrase? https://tda.podbean.com/e/whats-your-catch-phrase/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/whats-your-catch-phrase/#comments Mon, 20 Apr 2026 18:34:14 -0500 tda.podbean.com/d57323c0-d5f5-3ab6-b525-799e8079f7e9 Garth Heckman

The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com 

 

 

#The brotherhood manifesto

#TripleCsurvivor 

 

Here are 5 of the all-time greatest commercial catchphrases (often called slogans or taglines). These have endured for decades due to their simplicity, cultural penetration, and ability to stick in people's minds—frequently ranking at the top of advertising historians' and critics' lists for impact and memorability.

 

"Just Do It" (Nike, 1988)

This three-word imperative became a global motivational mantra, transcending sports to symbolize action, determination, and personal achievement. It's widely regarded as one of the most influential slogans ever created.

 

"A Diamond Is Forever" (De Beers, 1948)

Often cited as the single most recognized slogan of the 20th century, this phrase transformed diamonds into the ultimate symbol of eternal love and commitment, profoundly shaping the engagement ring market for generations.

 

"Got Milk?" (California Milk Processor Board, 1993)

The simple, direct question (often paired with celebrity milk-mustache ads) boosted milk consumption awareness and spawned countless parodies and imitations, proving how effective a minimalist approach can be.

 

"Where's the Beef?" (Wendy's, 1984)

Delivered by feisty octogenarian Clara Peller in TV commercials, this catchphrase exploded into pop culture, becoming shorthand for questioning substance or value. It turned a fast-food ad into a national phenomenon.

 

"Think Different" (Apple, 1997)

This grammatically bold slogan (intentionally avoiding "differently") celebrated innovation and non-conformity, perfectly aligning with Apple's brand during its resurgence and inspiring creative

 

What was Jesus catch phrase?

 

Here are 5 of the most iconic and enduring "catchphrases" from the life and teachings of Jesus, drawn from the Gospels. These short, memorable statements have shaped ethics, culture, and language for centuries—much like modern advertising slogans, they distill profound ideas into punchy, repeatable forms that people still quote today.

 

"Do to others what you would have them do to you." (Matthew 7:12; also Luke 6:31)

Known worldwide as the Golden Rule, this positive command summarizes ethical living and appears in various forms across cultures, but Jesus framed it as the essence of the law and prophets. It's a timeless call to empathy and proactive kindness.

 

"Love your neighbor as yourself." (Mark 12:31; part of the Greatest Commandment with loving God)

Jesus elevated this as one of the two core commandments on which "all the Law and the Prophets hang." It challenges self-centeredness and has influenced moral philosophy, social justice movements, and everyday ethics for 2,000 years.

 

"I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." (John 14:6)

This bold "I Am" declaration defines Jesus' exclusive role in salvation and relationship with God. It's one of his most direct and theologically central statements, often cited in discussions of faith and exclusivity.

 

"Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you." (Matthew 5:44)

Part of the Sermon on the Mount, this radical reversal of "eye for an eye" thinking promotes forgiveness and non-retaliation. It has inspired figures like Martin Luther King Jr. and remains a challenging ideal in a world of conflict.

 

"Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me." (John 14:1)

Spoken in the context of his impending death, this offers comfort and assurance amid anxiety. It's a concise message of peace through faith that resonates in times of trouble.

 

These phrases stand out for their brevity, depth, and cultural staying power—many have entered everyday speech (e.g., "turn the other cheek" or "judge not" come from similar teachings). Honorable mentions include "Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find" (Matthew 7:7) and "With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible" (Matthew 19:26).

Which of these resonates most with you, or do you have a favorite saying from Jesus' teachings?856msFast

 

 

What is your catch phrase?

]]> Garth Heckman

The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com 

 

 

#The brotherhood manifesto

#TripleCsurvivor 

 

Here are 5 of the all-time greatest commercial catchphrases (often called slogans or taglines). These have endured for decades due to their simplicity, cultural penetration, and ability to stick in people's minds—frequently ranking at the top of advertising historians' and critics' lists for impact and memorability.

 

"Just Do It" (Nike, 1988)

This three-word imperative became a global motivational mantra, transcending sports to symbolize action, determination, and personal achievement. It's widely regarded as one of the most influential slogans ever created.

 

"A Diamond Is Forever" (De Beers, 1948)

Often cited as the single most recognized slogan of the 20th century, this phrase transformed diamonds into the ultimate symbol of eternal love and commitment, profoundly shaping the engagement ring market for generations.

 

"Got Milk?" (California Milk Processor Board, 1993)

The simple, direct question (often paired with celebrity milk-mustache ads) boosted milk consumption awareness and spawned countless parodies and imitations, proving how effective a minimalist approach can be.

 

"Where's the Beef?" (Wendy's, 1984)

Delivered by feisty octogenarian Clara Peller in TV commercials, this catchphrase exploded into pop culture, becoming shorthand for questioning substance or value. It turned a fast-food ad into a national phenomenon.

 

"Think Different" (Apple, 1997)

This grammatically bold slogan (intentionally avoiding "differently") celebrated innovation and non-conformity, perfectly aligning with Apple's brand during its resurgence and inspiring creative

 

What was Jesus catch phrase?

 

Here are 5 of the most iconic and enduring "catchphrases" from the life and teachings of Jesus, drawn from the Gospels. These short, memorable statements have shaped ethics, culture, and language for centuries—much like modern advertising slogans, they distill profound ideas into punchy, repeatable forms that people still quote today.

 

"Do to others what you would have them do to you." (Matthew 7:12; also Luke 6:31)

Known worldwide as the Golden Rule, this positive command summarizes ethical living and appears in various forms across cultures, but Jesus framed it as the essence of the law and prophets. It's a timeless call to empathy and proactive kindness.

 

"Love your neighbor as yourself." (Mark 12:31; part of the Greatest Commandment with loving God)

Jesus elevated this as one of the two core commandments on which "all the Law and the Prophets hang." It challenges self-centeredness and has influenced moral philosophy, social justice movements, and everyday ethics for 2,000 years.

 

"I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." (John 14:6)

This bold "I Am" declaration defines Jesus' exclusive role in salvation and relationship with God. It's one of his most direct and theologically central statements, often cited in discussions of faith and exclusivity.

 

"Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you." (Matthew 5:44)

Part of the Sermon on the Mount, this radical reversal of "eye for an eye" thinking promotes forgiveness and non-retaliation. It has inspired figures like Martin Luther King Jr. and remains a challenging ideal in a world of conflict.

 

"Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me." (John 14:1)

Spoken in the context of his impending death, this offers comfort and assurance amid anxiety. It's a concise message of peace through faith that resonates in times of trouble.

 

These phrases stand out for their brevity, depth, and cultural staying power—many have entered everyday speech (e.g., "turn the other cheek" or "judge not" come from similar teachings). Honorable mentions include "Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find" (Matthew 7:7) and "With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible" (Matthew 19:26).

Which of these resonates most with you, or do you have a favorite saying from Jesus' teachings?856msFast

 

 

What is your catch phrase?

]]> Garth Heckman false No 441 1684 full The King of Exercise isn't exercise! The King of Exercise isn't exercise! https://tda.podbean.com/e/the-king-of-exercise-isnt-exercise/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/the-king-of-exercise-isnt-exercise/#comments Thu, 16 Apr 2026 17:21:57 -0500 tda.podbean.com/c144cd29-384c-3da1-a636-f1e6d182f4bb Garth Heckman

The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com 

#The brotherhood manifesto

#TripleCsurvivor 

 

2. Poor Sleep and Chronic Stress

Disrupted sleep and elevated cortisol (stress hormone) are major saboteurs. Poor sleep increases hunger hormones (ghrelin), decreases fullness signals (leptin), and promotes fat storage—especially around the midsection. High stress from work, life demands, or overtraining triggers emotional or comfort eating and makes the body hold onto fat as a survival response. Many men underestimate how much "just pushing through" with less sleep or high-pressure jobs undermines results.

 

Not to mention poor sleep causes poor eating habits which can cause inactivity which is muscle loss, which increases visceral fat.

 

How to address it: Prioritize 7–9 hours of quality sleep nightly. Manage stress with short daily practices (walks, meditation, or hobbies). Avoid late-night screens and over-caffeine. Have a sound machine, a fan, a night mask that blacks out all light, cut out late snacking and caffeine… whatever it takes sleep is king! 

]]> Garth Heckman

The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com 

#The brotherhood manifesto

#TripleCsurvivor 

 

2. Poor Sleep and Chronic Stress

Disrupted sleep and elevated cortisol (stress hormone) are major saboteurs. Poor sleep increases hunger hormones (ghrelin), decreases fullness signals (leptin), and promotes fat storage—especially around the midsection. High stress from work, life demands, or overtraining triggers emotional or comfort eating and makes the body hold onto fat as a survival response. Many men underestimate how much "just pushing through" with less sleep or high-pressure jobs undermines results.

 

Not to mention poor sleep causes poor eating habits which can cause inactivity which is muscle loss, which increases visceral fat.

 

How to address it: Prioritize 7–9 hours of quality sleep nightly. Manage stress with short daily practices (walks, meditation, or hobbies). Avoid late-night screens and over-caffeine. Have a sound machine, a fan, a night mask that blacks out all light, cut out late snacking and caffeine… whatever it takes sleep is king! 

]]> Garth Heckman false No 451 1683 full Serve Jesus unless you're fat? Serve Jesus unless you're fat? https://tda.podbean.com/e/serve-jesus-unless-youre-fat/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/serve-jesus-unless-youre-fat/#comments Wed, 15 Apr 2026 19:54:06 -0500 tda.podbean.com/e1492f7d-a296-341f-bd8a-e9bbd6e179d2 Garth Heckman

The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com 

 

 

#The brotherhood manifesto

#TripleCsurvivor 

 

Paul says to run the race… most men are not in shape to run.. and yes it will affect your walk with God. 

 

Here are the 5 biggest obstacles to weight loss that men commonly face, drawn from patterns in a mans life - 

While men often have physiological advantages like higher baseline muscle mass and resting metabolic rate (which can make initial fat loss faster than for women), these challenges frequently derail progress, especially with age, lifestyle, or unaddressed factors.

 

1. Declining Testosterone and Hormonal Imbalances

As men age (often starting in the 30s–40s), testosterone levels naturally drop, leading to reduced muscle mass, a slower metabolism, increased visceral (belly) fat, lower energy, and greater difficulty burning calories. Visceral fat is particularly stubborn and linked to insulin resistance, which promotes fat storage and cravings. This creates a cycle where lower T makes weight loss harder, and excess fat further suppresses T. Many men overlook this and treat symptoms with generic diets instead of checking levels.

How to address it: Get bloodwork for testosterone, thyroid, and insulin sensitivity. Strength training (especially heavy lifts), adequate sleep, stress management, and sometimes medical evaluation for replacement therapy can help restore the hormonal environment for fat loss.

 

Again I truly believe a man who is in health has a much greater advantage serving his wife, kids, employer and the church if he is in shape. Not muscle bound, not run a marathon… but healthy. 

]]> Garth Heckman

The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com 

 

 

#The brotherhood manifesto

#TripleCsurvivor 

 

Paul says to run the race… most men are not in shape to run.. and yes it will affect your walk with God. 

 

Here are the 5 biggest obstacles to weight loss that men commonly face, drawn from patterns in a mans life - 

While men often have physiological advantages like higher baseline muscle mass and resting metabolic rate (which can make initial fat loss faster than for women), these challenges frequently derail progress, especially with age, lifestyle, or unaddressed factors.

 

1. Declining Testosterone and Hormonal Imbalances

As men age (often starting in the 30s–40s), testosterone levels naturally drop, leading to reduced muscle mass, a slower metabolism, increased visceral (belly) fat, lower energy, and greater difficulty burning calories. Visceral fat is particularly stubborn and linked to insulin resistance, which promotes fat storage and cravings. This creates a cycle where lower T makes weight loss harder, and excess fat further suppresses T. Many men overlook this and treat symptoms with generic diets instead of checking levels.

How to address it: Get bloodwork for testosterone, thyroid, and insulin sensitivity. Strength training (especially heavy lifts), adequate sleep, stress management, and sometimes medical evaluation for replacement therapy can help restore the hormonal environment for fat loss.

 

Again I truly believe a man who is in health has a much greater advantage serving his wife, kids, employer and the church if he is in shape. Not muscle bound, not run a marathon… but healthy. 

]]> Garth Heckman false No 456 1682 full Multi Millionaire #1 Rule Multi Millionaire #1 Rule https://tda.podbean.com/e/multi-millionaire-1-rule/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/multi-millionaire-1-rule/#comments Mon, 13 Apr 2026 18:47:06 -0500 tda.podbean.com/8fa91469-523c-300b-b63f-b15b41c6b483 Garth Heckman

The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com 

THE MAN  

ABOUT 2 1/2 YEARS AGO I HAD A CHANCE TO TALK TO MULTI MULTI MILLIONAIRE… HIS FIRST QUESTION TO ME RIGHT OUT OF THE GATE “IF YOU WERE TO DIE TODAY WOULD YOU GO TO HEAVEN? 

I ASKED HIM WHY HE STARTS EVERY CONVERSATION LIKE THAT?

AT THE END OF THE CONVERSATION I SAID “HAVE YOU EVER BEEN AFRAID IT MIGHT COST YOU YOUR REPUTATION, BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY OR MONEY? 

HIS REPLY: I HAVE FOUND OUT OVER THE YEARS JESUS DOESN’T CARE ABOUT WHAT OTHER PEOPLE THINK… HE BLESSES ME REGARDLESS! 

 

Some day I will own a gym again, and when I sign people up on the contract I will have a place where I explain the plan of salvation to them… I may lose customers… but its always the gospel first! 

 

When healing takes place, when forgiveness

takes place it is the supernatural invading

the darkness here on earth.

YOU WALK AROUND LOOKING TO MESS UP

SATANS PLANS!

YOU ARE THE SECRET WEAPON!

 

Stages of faith seen in the scriptures.

- You ask Jesus "if you can” Luke 5:12 Leper

- You ask Jesus “if you are willing” Matt. 8:2 Leper

- If I can only touch him Matt. 9:20

- If he touches me - He goes out and heals the

masses

- If he says the word - Matt. 8:8 The centurion

- If I hear his word - Paul hears Jesus speak to him

on Damascus

- If I read his word - We read the Word and believe

it 

-  I AM HIS WORD 2 Cor. 3:3 clearly you are an epistle of Christ, ministered by us, written not with ink but by the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone but on tablets of flesh, that is, of the heart.

*Get people to Jesus at all cost (Mark 2:1-5 bring the paralytic man through the roof to Jesus)

  -  What are you willing to do to bring people to the Gospel?

  -  What are you willing to believe in order to get people to the

Gospel?

  -  What are you willing to risk to bring people to the gospel? 

]]> Garth Heckman

The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com 

THE MAN  

ABOUT 2 1/2 YEARS AGO I HAD A CHANCE TO TALK TO MULTI MULTI MILLIONAIRE… HIS FIRST QUESTION TO ME RIGHT OUT OF THE GATE “IF YOU WERE TO DIE TODAY WOULD YOU GO TO HEAVEN? 

I ASKED HIM WHY HE STARTS EVERY CONVERSATION LIKE THAT?

AT THE END OF THE CONVERSATION I SAID “HAVE YOU EVER BEEN AFRAID IT MIGHT COST YOU YOUR REPUTATION, BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY OR MONEY? 

HIS REPLY: I HAVE FOUND OUT OVER THE YEARS JESUS DOESN’T CARE ABOUT WHAT OTHER PEOPLE THINK… HE BLESSES ME REGARDLESS! 

 

Some day I will own a gym again, and when I sign people up on the contract I will have a place where I explain the plan of salvation to them… I may lose customers… but its always the gospel first! 

 

When healing takes place, when forgiveness

takes place it is the supernatural invading

the darkness here on earth.

YOU WALK AROUND LOOKING TO MESS UP

SATANS PLANS!

YOU ARE THE SECRET WEAPON!

 

Stages of faith seen in the scriptures.

- You ask Jesus "if you can” Luke 5:12 Leper

- You ask Jesus “if you are willing” Matt. 8:2 Leper

- If I can only touch him Matt. 9:20

- If he touches me - He goes out and heals the

masses

- If he says the word - Matt. 8:8 The centurion

- If I hear his word - Paul hears Jesus speak to him

on Damascus

- If I read his word - We read the Word and believe

it 

-  I AM HIS WORD 2 Cor. 3:3 clearly you are an epistle of Christ, ministered by us, written not with ink but by the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone but on tablets of flesh, that is, of the heart.

*Get people to Jesus at all cost (Mark 2:1-5 bring the paralytic man through the roof to Jesus)

  -  What are you willing to do to bring people to the Gospel?

  -  What are you willing to believe in order to get people to the

Gospel?

  -  What are you willing to risk to bring people to the gospel? 

]]> Garth Heckman false No 447 1681 full Joe Satriani, Jesus & sin Joe Satriani, Jesus & sin https://tda.podbean.com/e/joe-satriani-jesus-sin/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/joe-satriani-jesus-sin/#comments Sun, 12 Apr 2026 16:19:05 -0500 tda.podbean.com/fda1bd54-ee4c-3c3c-9896-78031bbdd009 Garth Heckman

The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com 

 

 

Going to see G3 and not being able to get up front… but looking for a bathroom upstairs I walked in on him - “your Joe Satriani… Yes I am”. 

 

Mark 2

When Jesus returned to Capernaum several days later, the news spread quickly that he was back home. 2 Soon the house where he was staying was so packed with visitors that there was no more room, even outside the door. While he was preaching God’s word (OUR JOB- PREACH THE WORD OF GOD - Preaching Gods word always messes up the religious and the traditional) to them, 3 four men arrived carrying a paralyzed man on a

mat. 4 They couldn’t bring him to Jesus because of the crowd, (PEOPLE ARE SELFISH EVEN WITH THE BEST INTENTIONS) so they dug a hole through the roof above his head. Then they lowered the man on his mat, right down in front of Jesus. (SOMEBODY’S GOTTA GET DIRTY - uh…thats not how we do things here - the religious are always quick to point out the “right way”)

5 Seeing their faith ( GK-auton personal possessive pronoun all 5 had faith), Jesus said to the paralyzed man, “My child, your sins are forgiven.” (CHILD, I AM YOUR FATHER, YOU ARE MY CHILD, I DISCERN YOUR BELIEF - you believe in me therefore you are now my child/I am your Father) 

6 But some of the teachers of religious law who were sitting there thought to themselves, 7 “What is he saying? This is blasphemy! Only God can forgive sins!”  (WHY DO YOU THINK THESE MEN SAW JESUS AS THE MESSIAH BUT NOT THE RELIGIOUS LEADERS?) 8 Jesus knew immediately what they were thinking, so he asked them, “Why do you question this in your hearts? 9 Is it easier to say to the paralyzed man ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or ‘Stand up, pick up your mat, and walk’? (RELIGIOUS LEADERS TAUGHT THAT SICKNESS WAS DUE TO SIN IN A PERSONS LIFE - so healing and forgiveness were intertwined) 10 So I will prove to you that the Son of Man has the authority on earth to forgive sins.” Then Jesus turned to the paralyzed man and said, 11 “Stand up, pick up your mat, and go home!”

12 And the man jumped up, grabbed his mat, and walked out through the stunned onlookers. They were all amazed and praised God, exclaiming, “We’ve never seen anything like this before!”

 

a series of controversy stories (Mark 2:1–3:6) that highlight growing opposition to Jesus from Jewish religious authorities

 

 

 

Both reveal Jesus exercising divine authority in ways that clash with first-century Jewish expectations.

 

 

Jesus first declares, “Son, your sins are forgiven”—bypassing expected healing and striking at the root issue.

 

 

(forgiving sins is “easier” because invisible and unprovable; healing is verifiable), and performs the harder visible act to authenticate the invisible one. The healed man’s immediate obedience proves Jesus’ authority as the “Son of Man” who exercises divine power now, not just in a future kingdom. The crowd’s reaction (“We never saw anything like this!”) underscores the unprecedented nature of the claim.

 

Taxi drivers in NY - get out now. Uber is coming. It will change everything.

 

 

This incident challenges the entire religious establishment: forgiveness is no longer Temple-bound but available through Jesus’ word; institutional mediators (scribes, sacrifices, Pharisees, Rules and Temple system) are sidelined.

]]> Garth Heckman

The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com 

 

 

Going to see G3 and not being able to get up front… but looking for a bathroom upstairs I walked in on him - “your Joe Satriani… Yes I am”. 

 

Mark 2

When Jesus returned to Capernaum several days later, the news spread quickly that he was back home. 2 Soon the house where he was staying was so packed with visitors that there was no more room, even outside the door. While he was preaching God’s word (OUR JOB- PREACH THE WORD OF GOD - Preaching Gods word always messes up the religious and the traditional) to them, 3 four men arrived carrying a paralyzed man on a

mat. 4 They couldn’t bring him to Jesus because of the crowd, (PEOPLE ARE SELFISH EVEN WITH THE BEST INTENTIONS) so they dug a hole through the roof above his head. Then they lowered the man on his mat, right down in front of Jesus. (SOMEBODY’S GOTTA GET DIRTY - uh…thats not how we do things here - the religious are always quick to point out the “right way”)

5 Seeing their faith ( GK-auton personal possessive pronoun all 5 had faith), Jesus said to the paralyzed man, “My child, your sins are forgiven.” (CHILD, I AM YOUR FATHER, YOU ARE MY CHILD, I DISCERN YOUR BELIEF - you believe in me therefore you are now my child/I am your Father) 

6 But some of the teachers of religious law who were sitting there thought to themselves, 7 “What is he saying? This is blasphemy! Only God can forgive sins!”  (WHY DO YOU THINK THESE MEN SAW JESUS AS THE MESSIAH BUT NOT THE RELIGIOUS LEADERS?) 8 Jesus knew immediately what they were thinking, so he asked them, “Why do you question this in your hearts? 9 Is it easier to say to the paralyzed man ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or ‘Stand up, pick up your mat, and walk’? (RELIGIOUS LEADERS TAUGHT THAT SICKNESS WAS DUE TO SIN IN A PERSONS LIFE - so healing and forgiveness were intertwined) 10 So I will prove to you that the Son of Man has the authority on earth to forgive sins.” Then Jesus turned to the paralyzed man and said, 11 “Stand up, pick up your mat, and go home!”

12 And the man jumped up, grabbed his mat, and walked out through the stunned onlookers. They were all amazed and praised God, exclaiming, “We’ve never seen anything like this before!”

 

a series of controversy stories (Mark 2:1–3:6) that highlight growing opposition to Jesus from Jewish religious authorities

 

 

 

Both reveal Jesus exercising divine authority in ways that clash with first-century Jewish expectations.

 

 

Jesus first declares, “Son, your sins are forgiven”—bypassing expected healing and striking at the root issue.

 

 

(forgiving sins is “easier” because invisible and unprovable; healing is verifiable), and performs the harder visible act to authenticate the invisible one. The healed man’s immediate obedience proves Jesus’ authority as the “Son of Man” who exercises divine power now, not just in a future kingdom. The crowd’s reaction (“We never saw anything like this!”) underscores the unprecedented nature of the claim.

 

Taxi drivers in NY - get out now. Uber is coming. It will change everything.

 

 

This incident challenges the entire religious establishment: forgiveness is no longer Temple-bound but available through Jesus’ word; institutional mediators (scribes, sacrifices, Pharisees, Rules and Temple system) are sidelined.

]]> Garth Heckman false No 460 1680 full Good things bring Energy Good things bring Energy https://tda.podbean.com/e/good-things-bring-energy/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/good-things-bring-energy/#comments Thu, 09 Apr 2026 18:13:44 -0500 tda.podbean.com/f1130794-a0a0-3c04-8f25-d864fe5a6176 Garth Heckman

The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com 

 

 

Sermon Psalm 103:5 

 

who satisfies your desires with good things so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s. NIV

 

Who satisfieth thy mouth with good things; so that thy youth is renewed like the eagle’s. KJV

 

He fills my life with good things. My youth is renewed like the eagle’s! NLT

 

 

 

Desires/mouth/Glory/years/….souls desires -  the inner most parts of a person. 

 

 

 

 

 

With good things

• The “good things” are both spiritual and tangible. Notice the catalog earlier in the psalm:

– Forgiveness of iniquity (v 3)

– Healing of diseases (v 3)

– Redemption from the pit (v 4)

– Crowning with loving devotion and compassion (v 4)

• God never rations goodness. “He who did not spare His own Son…how will He not also, along with Him, graciously give us all things?” (Romans 8:32).

• Every blessing in the heavenly realms is already ours in Christ (Ephesians 1:3).

 

 

Youth GK - Juvenality, young youthful (youth in all that you are. Energy, mindset, optimist)

 

Eagle

A symbol of strength and renewal in the Bible, the eagle is often used to depict God's provision and the renewal of strength for those who trust in Him.

 

God's Provision

God is the ultimate provider who satisfies our needs with good things. Reflect on how God has provided for you in both physical and spiritual ways.

 

Renewal of Strength

Just as the eagle renews its strength, God offers us renewal and rejuvenation. Consider areas in your life where you need God's renewing power.

 

Spiritual Satisfaction

True satisfaction comes from God alone. Evaluate what you are seeking for fulfillment and ensure it aligns with God's will.

 

Trust in God's Timing

Trust that God will satisfy you in His perfect timing. Be patient and faithful, knowing that His timing is always best.

 

Gratitude for God's Blessings

Cultivate a heart of gratitude for the good things God provides. Regularly thank Him for His blessings and provisions.

 

 

 

What Does Psalm 103:5 Mean

Who

David’s “who” reaches back to the LORD he blesses in verses 1-2. The focus is personal: the Creator Himself stoops to care for an individual soul. “The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want” (Psalm 23:1). Because He is unchanging (James 1:17), His benefits listed in verses 3-4—pardon, healing, rescue, love—flow straight into verse 5.

 

 

Satisfies you

• God does more than meet needs; He fills the deepest hungers until nothing is missing (Psalm 107:9).

• Christ echoes this promise: “I am the bread of life; whoever comes to Me will never hunger” (John 6:35).

• Satisfaction here is ongoing, not a one-time event. The verb shouts continual provision, the way manna arrived fresh every morning (Exodus 16:4).

 

 

 

 

So that your youth is renewed

God’s gifts carry a purpose: revival. The picture is inward vitality overriding outward decline.

• “Though our outer self is wasting away, yet our inner self is being renewed day by day” (2 Corinthians 4:16).

• Renewal keeps us useful, hopeful, and energetic for service—never merely comfortable spectators.

• Isaiah connects waiting on the LORD with fresh strength (Isaiah 40:31), showing renewal is relational, not mechanical.

 

 

Like the eagle’s

The eagle embodies altitude, longevity, and vigor. Scripture often uses the bird as a snapshot of God-given strength.

• Eagles soar above storms, riding thermal currents instead of flapping in panic—an image of trusting rather than striving (Isaiah 40:31).

• They enjoy remarkable life spans, fitting the idea of youth being “renewed.”

• The LORD carried Israel “as an eagle stirs up its nest…spreading its wings” (Deuteronomy 32:11); He does the same for every believer, lifting us above circumstances into His higher purposes.

 

 

summary

Psalm 103:5 promises that the LORD Himself continually fills His people with every good gift, bringing deep, satisfying refreshment that restores inner vitality. Like eagles catching fresh currents, we are lifted by His grace to live energetically and purposefully, confident that His goodness will never run dry.

]]> Garth Heckman

The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com 

 

 

Sermon Psalm 103:5 

 

who satisfies your desires with good things so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s. NIV

 

Who satisfieth thy mouth with good things; so that thy youth is renewed like the eagle’s. KJV

 

He fills my life with good things. My youth is renewed like the eagle’s! NLT

 

 

 

Desires/mouth/Glory/years/….souls desires -  the inner most parts of a person. 

 

 

 

 

 

With good things

• The “good things” are both spiritual and tangible. Notice the catalog earlier in the psalm:

– Forgiveness of iniquity (v 3)

– Healing of diseases (v 3)

– Redemption from the pit (v 4)

– Crowning with loving devotion and compassion (v 4)

• God never rations goodness. “He who did not spare His own Son…how will He not also, along with Him, graciously give us all things?” (Romans 8:32).

• Every blessing in the heavenly realms is already ours in Christ (Ephesians 1:3).

 

 

Youth GK - Juvenality, young youthful (youth in all that you are. Energy, mindset, optimist)

 

Eagle

A symbol of strength and renewal in the Bible, the eagle is often used to depict God's provision and the renewal of strength for those who trust in Him.

 

God's Provision

God is the ultimate provider who satisfies our needs with good things. Reflect on how God has provided for you in both physical and spiritual ways.

 

Renewal of Strength

Just as the eagle renews its strength, God offers us renewal and rejuvenation. Consider areas in your life where you need God's renewing power.

 

Spiritual Satisfaction

True satisfaction comes from God alone. Evaluate what you are seeking for fulfillment and ensure it aligns with God's will.

 

Trust in God's Timing

Trust that God will satisfy you in His perfect timing. Be patient and faithful, knowing that His timing is always best.

 

Gratitude for God's Blessings

Cultivate a heart of gratitude for the good things God provides. Regularly thank Him for His blessings and provisions.

 

 

 

What Does Psalm 103:5 Mean

Who

David’s “who” reaches back to the LORD he blesses in verses 1-2. The focus is personal: the Creator Himself stoops to care for an individual soul. “The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want” (Psalm 23:1). Because He is unchanging (James 1:17), His benefits listed in verses 3-4—pardon, healing, rescue, love—flow straight into verse 5.

 

 

Satisfies you

• God does more than meet needs; He fills the deepest hungers until nothing is missing (Psalm 107:9).

• Christ echoes this promise: “I am the bread of life; whoever comes to Me will never hunger” (John 6:35).

• Satisfaction here is ongoing, not a one-time event. The verb shouts continual provision, the way manna arrived fresh every morning (Exodus 16:4).

 

 

 

 

So that your youth is renewed

God’s gifts carry a purpose: revival. The picture is inward vitality overriding outward decline.

• “Though our outer self is wasting away, yet our inner self is being renewed day by day” (2 Corinthians 4:16).

• Renewal keeps us useful, hopeful, and energetic for service—never merely comfortable spectators.

• Isaiah connects waiting on the LORD with fresh strength (Isaiah 40:31), showing renewal is relational, not mechanical.

 

 

Like the eagle’s

The eagle embodies altitude, longevity, and vigor. Scripture often uses the bird as a snapshot of God-given strength.

• Eagles soar above storms, riding thermal currents instead of flapping in panic—an image of trusting rather than striving (Isaiah 40:31).

• They enjoy remarkable life spans, fitting the idea of youth being “renewed.”

• The LORD carried Israel “as an eagle stirs up its nest…spreading its wings” (Deuteronomy 32:11); He does the same for every believer, lifting us above circumstances into His higher purposes.

 

 

summary

Psalm 103:5 promises that the LORD Himself continually fills His people with every good gift, bringing deep, satisfying refreshment that restores inner vitality. Like eagles catching fresh currents, we are lifted by His grace to live energetically and purposefully, confident that His goodness will never run dry.

]]> Garth Heckman false No 450 1679 full Sabbath Moment Sabbath Moment https://tda.podbean.com/e/sabbath-moment/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/sabbath-moment/#comments Wed, 08 Apr 2026 18:43:24 -0500 tda.podbean.com/e04a667d-4b6d-31e9-91e8-d6e0269aadb5  

Some pharisees even argued that it was illegal to pray for someone on the sabbath. 

 

When is the sabbath?

The determination of the "actual" day of the Sabbath depends on the religious and historical context, as different traditions observe it on different days of the week.

Judaism: Saturday

In the Jewish tradition, the Sabbath (Shabbat) is the seventh day of the week. It commemorates the biblical narrative of the seventh day of creation when God rested.

  • Timing: It begins at sunset on Friday and concludes at nightfall on Saturday.
  • Significance: It is a day of rest, prayer, and cessation from all forms of creative work (melakhah).

Christianity: Sunday (The Lord's Day)

Most Christian denominations observe the Sabbath on Sunday, the first day of the week.

  • Reasoning: This shift occurred early in church history to honor the Resurrection of Jesus, which took place on the first day of the week.
  • Exceptions: Certain groups, such as Seventh-day Adventists and Seventh Day Baptists, continue to observe the Sabbath on Saturday, citing the original biblical commandment to keep the seventh day holy.

 

 

THE ORIGINAL COMMANDMENT

Exodus 20:8-11 THE COMMAND

8 “Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. 9 Six days you shall labor and do all your work, 10 but the seventh day is a sabbath to the Lord your God. On it you shall not do any work, neither you, nor your son or daughter, nor your male or female servant, nor your animals, nor any foreigner residing in your towns. 11 For in six days the Lord made the heavens and the earth, the sea, and all that is in them, but he rested (ABANDONED) on the seventh day. Therefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath day and made it holy.

 

 

 

 

 

The sabbath was given for man to rest and reconnect with God.

Jesus said it was a day for Good… not evil. It was to Meet the deepest needs of man spiritual and physical renewal.

 

 

 

THE SABBATH: PRE-VIEW

FOCUS ON GOD

FOCUS ON WHAT HE IS ABOUT

FOCUS ON WHAT ONLY HE CAN DO

FOCUS ON HOW HE HAS USED YOU AS YOU SEEK TO HONOR HIM IN ALL YOU DO… Thats the secret!

 

 

 

The pharisees were mad that Jesus did not keep the rules… they were powerless, so rules are all they had to feel powerful! 

 

Remember - rebellion is a false sense of power… but even if fake it sure can feel real… and taste good. 

What rules do you hang on to when you feel powerless? We all do it. 

DO YOU FIND IT EASY TO POINT OUT OTHERS WHO BREAK THE RULES? THAT STEMS FROM A PLACE OF POWERLESSNESS. 

 

Have you ever said or thought “well at least im not as bad as them”. That is just simply your flesh acting out like the Pharisees… I have more power because I act better.

 

At least five things in these verses need special comment.

1. Remembering

First, Israel is to remember the rest day. Sabbath means rest. "Remember the sabbath day," means, "Don't forget to take a day off.”

 

 

Remember: Make it a pattern. not just day off, NOT JUST A DAY YOU GO TO CHURCH…but a pattern of keeping it holy, focused on God and his works. 

 

 

We live in a world where we revel brag and posture on how busy we are.... think about that for a minute... we are proud that we do not take time to focus on God, celebrate his holiness and goodness.

 

 

DON’T FORGET TO ABANDON!

 

 

It’s God showing us a discipline we all need more of. learning to say NO…

No to people

No to pressures and expectations

No to purchases we think we need

No to things we are not good at

No to time that is spent on meaningless events

 

Abandon!

]]>  

Some pharisees even argued that it was illegal to pray for someone on the sabbath. 

 

When is the sabbath?

The determination of the "actual" day of the Sabbath depends on the religious and historical context, as different traditions observe it on different days of the week.

Judaism: Saturday

In the Jewish tradition, the Sabbath (Shabbat) is the seventh day of the week. It commemorates the biblical narrative of the seventh day of creation when God rested.

  • Timing: It begins at sunset on Friday and concludes at nightfall on Saturday.
  • Significance: It is a day of rest, prayer, and cessation from all forms of creative work (melakhah).

Christianity: Sunday (The Lord's Day)

Most Christian denominations observe the Sabbath on Sunday, the first day of the week.

  • Reasoning: This shift occurred early in church history to honor the Resurrection of Jesus, which took place on the first day of the week.
  • Exceptions: Certain groups, such as Seventh-day Adventists and Seventh Day Baptists, continue to observe the Sabbath on Saturday, citing the original biblical commandment to keep the seventh day holy.

 

 

THE ORIGINAL COMMANDMENT

Exodus 20:8-11 THE COMMAND

8 “Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. 9 Six days you shall labor and do all your work, 10 but the seventh day is a sabbath to the Lord your God. On it you shall not do any work, neither you, nor your son or daughter, nor your male or female servant, nor your animals, nor any foreigner residing in your towns. 11 For in six days the Lord made the heavens and the earth, the sea, and all that is in them, but he rested (ABANDONED) on the seventh day. Therefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath day and made it holy.

 

 

 

 

 

The sabbath was given for man to rest and reconnect with God.

Jesus said it was a day for Good… not evil. It was to Meet the deepest needs of man spiritual and physical renewal.

 

 

 

THE SABBATH: PRE-VIEW

FOCUS ON GOD

FOCUS ON WHAT HE IS ABOUT

FOCUS ON WHAT ONLY HE CAN DO

FOCUS ON HOW HE HAS USED YOU AS YOU SEEK TO HONOR HIM IN ALL YOU DO… Thats the secret!

 

 

 

The pharisees were mad that Jesus did not keep the rules… they were powerless, so rules are all they had to feel powerful! 

 

Remember - rebellion is a false sense of power… but even if fake it sure can feel real… and taste good. 

What rules do you hang on to when you feel powerless? We all do it. 

DO YOU FIND IT EASY TO POINT OUT OTHERS WHO BREAK THE RULES? THAT STEMS FROM A PLACE OF POWERLESSNESS. 

 

Have you ever said or thought “well at least im not as bad as them”. That is just simply your flesh acting out like the Pharisees… I have more power because I act better.

 

At least five things in these verses need special comment.

1. Remembering

First, Israel is to remember the rest day. Sabbath means rest. "Remember the sabbath day," means, "Don't forget to take a day off.”

 

 

Remember: Make it a pattern. not just day off, NOT JUST A DAY YOU GO TO CHURCH…but a pattern of keeping it holy, focused on God and his works. 

 

 

We live in a world where we revel brag and posture on how busy we are.... think about that for a minute... we are proud that we do not take time to focus on God, celebrate his holiness and goodness.

 

 

DON’T FORGET TO ABANDON!

 

 

It’s God showing us a discipline we all need more of. learning to say NO…

No to people

No to pressures and expectations

No to purchases we think we need

No to things we are not good at

No to time that is spent on meaningless events

 

Abandon!

]]> Garth Heckman false No 458 1678 full Jesus breaks the Law... because HE is the law fulfilled Jesus breaks the Law... because HE is the law fulfilled https://tda.podbean.com/e/jesus-breaks-the-law-because-he-is-the-law-fulfilled/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/jesus-breaks-the-law-because-he-is-the-law-fulfilled/#comments Tue, 07 Apr 2026 17:33:17 -0500 tda.podbean.com/8c6a7397-227d-3605-a1f8-3794a77bd2e6 Garth Heckman

The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com 

 

 

 

 

Mark 2 

23 One Sabbath day as Jesus was walking through some grainfields, his disciples began breaking off heads of grain to eat. 24 But the Pharisees said to Jesus, “Look, why are they breaking the law by harvesting grain on the Sabbath?”

25 Jesus said to them, “Haven’t you ever read in the Scriptures what David did when he and his companions were hungry? 26 He went into the house of God (during the days when Abiathar was high priest) and broke the law by eating the sacred loaves of bread that only the priests are allowed to eat. He also gave some to his companions.”

27 Then Jesus said to them, “The Sabbath was made to meet the needs of people, and not people to meet the requirements of the Sabbath. 28 So the Son of Man is Lord, even over the Sabbath!” 

 

 

The Pharisees lived in cities… don’t miss the point. If they were following 

Jesus they were a long way from home. They were simply there to find something wrong with him. ooohhhh people who spend all their time pointing out what others do wrong… powerless and religious!

 

 

The people were required to meet the requirements of the Sabbath… this is the law.

JESUS NOW COMES TO FULFILL THE LAW

 

 

Lord even over the Sabbath.  

The Pharisees tried to make the Sabbath Holy by following the rules…

Jesus is Lord over the Sabbath. Its not about Rules it’s about Jesus being Lord of your life.

 

 

3 Jesus went into the synagogue again and noticed a man with a deformed hand. 2 Since it was the Sabbath, Jesus’ enemies watched him closely. If he healed the man’s hand, they planned to accuse him of working on the Sabbath.

3 Jesus said to the man with the deformed hand, “Come and stand in front of everyone.” 4 Then he turned to his critics and asked, “Does the law permit good deeds on the Sabbath, or is it a day for doing evil? Is this a day to save life or to destroy it?” But they wouldn’t answer him.

5 He looked around at them angrily and was deeply saddened by their hard hearts. Then he said to the man, “Hold out your hand.” So the man held out his hand, and it was restored! 6 At once the Pharisees went away and met with the supporters of Herod to plot how to kill Jesus.

 

 

A great example of what happened to the sabbath could be wrapped up in what happened to healthcare.

In the USA Churches started hospitals… care for the lost and poor

If it was a country - It’s the 5th largest economy in the world 

A paper pill cup on amazon is .2 cents, in a hospital it can be as much as $15

*what was once meant to be serving and healing is now consolidation, ownership for the sake of monopolizing profit! 

  • its about the Benjamin's! 
  • The pharmaceutical companies control the curriculum in the medical schools. 

 

 

Some pharisees even argued that it was illegal to pray for someone on the sabbath. 

]]> Garth Heckman

The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com 

 

 

 

 

Mark 2 

23 One Sabbath day as Jesus was walking through some grainfields, his disciples began breaking off heads of grain to eat. 24 But the Pharisees said to Jesus, “Look, why are they breaking the law by harvesting grain on the Sabbath?”

25 Jesus said to them, “Haven’t you ever read in the Scriptures what David did when he and his companions were hungry? 26 He went into the house of God (during the days when Abiathar was high priest) and broke the law by eating the sacred loaves of bread that only the priests are allowed to eat. He also gave some to his companions.”

27 Then Jesus said to them, “The Sabbath was made to meet the needs of people, and not people to meet the requirements of the Sabbath. 28 So the Son of Man is Lord, even over the Sabbath!” 

 

 

The Pharisees lived in cities… don’t miss the point. If they were following 

Jesus they were a long way from home. They were simply there to find something wrong with him. ooohhhh people who spend all their time pointing out what others do wrong… powerless and religious!

 

 

The people were required to meet the requirements of the Sabbath… this is the law.

JESUS NOW COMES TO FULFILL THE LAW

 

 

Lord even over the Sabbath.  

The Pharisees tried to make the Sabbath Holy by following the rules…

Jesus is Lord over the Sabbath. Its not about Rules it’s about Jesus being Lord of your life.

 

 

3 Jesus went into the synagogue again and noticed a man with a deformed hand. 2 Since it was the Sabbath, Jesus’ enemies watched him closely. If he healed the man’s hand, they planned to accuse him of working on the Sabbath.

3 Jesus said to the man with the deformed hand, “Come and stand in front of everyone.” 4 Then he turned to his critics and asked, “Does the law permit good deeds on the Sabbath, or is it a day for doing evil? Is this a day to save life or to destroy it?” But they wouldn’t answer him.

5 He looked around at them angrily and was deeply saddened by their hard hearts. Then he said to the man, “Hold out your hand.” So the man held out his hand, and it was restored! 6 At once the Pharisees went away and met with the supporters of Herod to plot how to kill Jesus.

 

 

A great example of what happened to the sabbath could be wrapped up in what happened to healthcare.

In the USA Churches started hospitals… care for the lost and poor

If it was a country - It’s the 5th largest economy in the world 

A paper pill cup on amazon is .2 cents, in a hospital it can be as much as $15

*what was once meant to be serving and healing is now consolidation, ownership for the sake of monopolizing profit! 

  • its about the Benjamin's! 
  • The pharmaceutical companies control the curriculum in the medical schools. 

 

 

Some pharisees even argued that it was illegal to pray for someone on the sabbath. 

]]> Garth Heckman false No 452 1677 full Why 3 days dead? Why 3 days dead? https://tda.podbean.com/e/why-3-days-dead/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/why-3-days-dead/#comments Sun, 05 Apr 2026 20:07:22 -0500 tda.podbean.com/3f87ffec-34ef-3d08-ba77-25cc131da7c6 Garth Heckman

The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com 

 

 

Did you know that yesterday EASTER was the exact anniversary of our Lord and Saviors death. Exactly 1,993 years ago on that exact day Christ rose from the grave. 

 

Walking through the cemetery as a kid at night…

We fear death..

Not birth

Not life

But death… we can’t relate.

 

I could claim to be born as a God

I could claim to live as a God

I could claim to die as a God

But am I willing to CLAIM to resurrect 3 days later to prove it…

 

But because he did resurrect we now no longer need to fear death. He conquered it, he made a fool of it, he said where is your sting oh death. Thats all you got? And why wait 3 days until you come back to life? 

 

 

 1. Ancient Medical Understanding: When is someone truly dead?

 

In the ancient world (including Jewish and Greco-Roman thought), people didn’t have modern tools to confirm death (no EEG, no heart monitors). So they relied on observable signs:

 

What they looked for:

 

* No breathing

* No pulse (very hard to detect accurately)

* Body cooling

* **Onset of decomposition**

 

The key issue:

People could appear dead and revive (coma, shock, hypothermia)

 

So there was always a lingering fear:

“What if they weren’t really dead?”

 

2. Why “Three Days” Became a Cultural Threshold**

 

In Jewish thought, there was a widespread belief (not formal doctrine, but common teaching) that:

 

The soul hovered near the body for about 3 days**

 

After that:

 

* The body began to visibly decay

* The soul was considered fully departed

* Death was **final and irreversible**

 

You see this hinted at in the story of Lazarus:

 

“Lord, by this time there is a stench, for he has been dead four days.” (John 11:39)

 

That’s not just a detail—it’s a theological statement:

“This is beyond recovery. This is real death.”

 

 

3. Modern Medical Insight: Decomposition Timeline

 

Even today, decomposition supports why 3 days is significant:

 

Within ~72 hours after death:

 

Rigor mortis comes and goes

Autolysis** (cells breaking down) accelerates

Putrefaction begins (bacteria causing decay)

Odor becomes noticeable

 

By day 3, the body is unmistakably dead.

 

So even by modern standards:

Three days removes doubt.

 

 

4. The Power of the Resurrection Timing

 

Jesus didn’t rise immediately. That’s critical.

 

If He rose:

 

* After a few hours → skeptics say “He fainted”

* After one day → “Maybe He wasn’t fully dead”

 

But after three days:

It destroys every natural explanation.

 

This is why the resurrection isn’t just miraculous—it’s strategically undeniable.

 

5. Biblical Pattern: “Third Day” = Divine Intervention

 

The “third day” shows up all over Scripture as the moment God acts decisively:

 

* Hosea 6:2 — “On the third day He will raise us up”

* Jonah 1:17 — Jonah in the fish 3 days

* Genesis 22 — Abraham receives Isaac back (figuratively) on the third day

 

The pattern:

Day 1 = loss

Day 2 = silence

Day 3 = God moves

 

Jesus steps into that pattern and fulfills it.

 

6. Roman Execution Certainty

 

From a historical standpoint:

 

* Roman crucifixion was brutally efficient

* Executioners ensured death (piercing, blood loss, asphyxiation)

* Bodies weren’t casually misdiagnosed

 

So combine:

 

* Roman certainty of death

* 3 days in the tomb

* Sealed grave

 

The resurrection claim becomes *maximally bold*.

 

Bottom Line (Teaching Power Statement)

 

Three days wasn’t random. It was intentional.

 

It ensured that:

 

* No one could argue Jesus merely fainted

* Death had fully taken its course

* Resurrection could only be explained as supernatural

 

 

“Jesus didn’t come back early—He waited until death had fully won… and then He crushed it.”

]]> Garth Heckman

The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com 

 

 

Did you know that yesterday EASTER was the exact anniversary of our Lord and Saviors death. Exactly 1,993 years ago on that exact day Christ rose from the grave. 

 

Walking through the cemetery as a kid at night…

We fear death..

Not birth

Not life

But death… we can’t relate.

 

I could claim to be born as a God

I could claim to live as a God

I could claim to die as a God

But am I willing to CLAIM to resurrect 3 days later to prove it…

 

But because he did resurrect we now no longer need to fear death. He conquered it, he made a fool of it, he said where is your sting oh death. Thats all you got? And why wait 3 days until you come back to life? 

 

 

 1. Ancient Medical Understanding: When is someone truly dead?

 

In the ancient world (including Jewish and Greco-Roman thought), people didn’t have modern tools to confirm death (no EEG, no heart monitors). So they relied on observable signs:

 

What they looked for:

 

* No breathing

* No pulse (very hard to detect accurately)

* Body cooling

* **Onset of decomposition**

 

The key issue:

People could appear dead and revive (coma, shock, hypothermia)

 

So there was always a lingering fear:

“What if they weren’t really dead?”

 

2. Why “Three Days” Became a Cultural Threshold**

 

In Jewish thought, there was a widespread belief (not formal doctrine, but common teaching) that:

 

The soul hovered near the body for about 3 days**

 

After that:

 

* The body began to visibly decay

* The soul was considered fully departed

* Death was **final and irreversible**

 

You see this hinted at in the story of Lazarus:

 

“Lord, by this time there is a stench, for he has been dead four days.” (John 11:39)

 

That’s not just a detail—it’s a theological statement:

“This is beyond recovery. This is real death.”

 

 

3. Modern Medical Insight: Decomposition Timeline

 

Even today, decomposition supports why 3 days is significant:

 

Within ~72 hours after death:

 

Rigor mortis comes and goes

Autolysis** (cells breaking down) accelerates

Putrefaction begins (bacteria causing decay)

Odor becomes noticeable

 

By day 3, the body is unmistakably dead.

 

So even by modern standards:

Three days removes doubt.

 

 

4. The Power of the Resurrection Timing

 

Jesus didn’t rise immediately. That’s critical.

 

If He rose:

 

* After a few hours → skeptics say “He fainted”

* After one day → “Maybe He wasn’t fully dead”

 

But after three days:

It destroys every natural explanation.

 

This is why the resurrection isn’t just miraculous—it’s strategically undeniable.

 

5. Biblical Pattern: “Third Day” = Divine Intervention

 

The “third day” shows up all over Scripture as the moment God acts decisively:

 

* Hosea 6:2 — “On the third day He will raise us up”

* Jonah 1:17 — Jonah in the fish 3 days

* Genesis 22 — Abraham receives Isaac back (figuratively) on the third day

 

The pattern:

Day 1 = loss

Day 2 = silence

Day 3 = God moves

 

Jesus steps into that pattern and fulfills it.

 

6. Roman Execution Certainty

 

From a historical standpoint:

 

* Roman crucifixion was brutally efficient

* Executioners ensured death (piercing, blood loss, asphyxiation)

* Bodies weren’t casually misdiagnosed

 

So combine:

 

* Roman certainty of death

* 3 days in the tomb

* Sealed grave

 

The resurrection claim becomes *maximally bold*.

 

Bottom Line (Teaching Power Statement)

 

Three days wasn’t random. It was intentional.

 

It ensured that:

 

* No one could argue Jesus merely fainted

* Death had fully taken its course

* Resurrection could only be explained as supernatural

 

 

“Jesus didn’t come back early—He waited until death had fully won… and then He crushed it.”

]]> Garth Heckman false No 442 1676 full B.O.M.B. Bearer of Measured Brutality! B.O.M.B. Bearer of Measured Brutality! https://tda.podbean.com/e/bomb-bearer-of-measured-brutality/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/bomb-bearer-of-measured-brutality/#comments Wed, 01 Apr 2026 19:04:55 -0500 tda.podbean.com/09b39556-1294-3d8b-ad4b-249bab4f286b Garth Heckman

The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com 

 

 

Bearer of Measured Brutality.

 

Do You YOU, feel like I do! Peter Frampton comes alive…

 

Be the BOMB… 

The man who would go off. Is it seen in your walk, talk, dress, your command of your kids, your eye contact, your voice, your mental involvement in your kids, your social setting awareness.

 

**Yes, I know exactly what you're referring to.** This comes from a 2017 interview with Jack Reynolds, a convicted child molester from Indiana who served over 12 years in prison for offenses in the 1980s (he claimed more than 300 victims). In the interview—conducted after his release and shared widely in child safety circles—he openly described his victim selection process.

 

One of the first things he assessed was the child's father. His exact words (from the interview footage and transcripts that have circulated): “If I thought the father was a threat, I would not approach the child.” He targeted boys who appeared isolated, from split or unstable families, or who lacked a strong, present father figure. If the dad seemed attentive, involved, capable of confrontation, or simply “in the picture” in a protective way, Reynolds moved on to easier targets. He wanted zero risk of exposure, confrontation, or interference—predators like him operate in secrecy and silence, and a vigilant father raises the stakes dramatically.

 

He scoped out potential victims in everyday places like school grounds, Little League fields, or neighborhoods, and he explicitly looked for vulnerability: no close friends the child would confide in, mothers who might welcome “help” from a friendly outsider (he’d position himself as a “superhero” offering to take the kid for outings), boys with little sexual experience, and families lacking strong values or structure.

 

### Other insights from this and similar predator accounts

This isn’t unique to Reynolds—multiple law enforcement interviews with convicted offenders (and research on grooming patterns) show predators treat “father presence” as a high-risk filter. Here are related patterns that consistently come up:

 

- **They prioritize low-resistance targets overall.** Beyond the father, they avoid kids who seem confident, assertive, or likely to speak up immediately. They test boundaries gradually (grooming) and bail if the child resists early or has a tight support network (close friends, involved siblings, or other adults who pay attention). Reynolds himself said he skipped kids “that he would tell” because the risk of the child disclosing was too high.

 

- **Absence or perceived weakness is the real opportunity.** Predators don’t necessarily need a completely absent dad—they exploit dads who appear distracted, disengaged, overly trusting, or unwilling/unable to act. The “threat” Reynolds described wasn’t just physical size or aggression; it was *perceived capability and willingness* to protect (being present, setting boundaries, staying alert). This is why child-safety experts emphasize that involved, visible fatherhood itself is a deterrent.

 

- **Grooming is calculated, not impulsive.** Reynolds stressed it wasn’t random or overnight—it involved scouting, building trust with the family, and exploiting cracks (e.g., a stressed single mom or a lonely kid). Modern versions often use social media for the same low-risk access, which he himself warned about in the interview as giving predators even more tools.

 

- **Broader deterrence themes from other interviews.** Similar accounts (from prison interviews and prevention programs) repeatedly highlight that predators scan for *opportunity + low consequence*. Strong parental involvement (dad *and* mom), clear family rules about strangers/adults, kids who are taught to recognize uncomfortable situations and report them, and communities where adults watch out for each other all shrink the “easy target” pool. Physical fitness or “intimidating” appearance can play a role, but consistent presence and boundaries matter more.

 

The core takeaway from Reynolds’ own words (and why clips of this interview keep resurfacing on parenting and men’s accounts) is simple: predators are opportunistic and risk-averse. They don’t want a fight or attention—they want silence and compliance. A father who is actively engaged, physically and mentally prepared to protect, and visibly part of his kids’ lives sends a clear signal: “Not this one.” It’s a powerful, evidence-based reason for dads to stay sharp, involved, and unapologetically protective. This interview was shared precisely because Reynolds hoped it would help parents close those windows of vulnerability he once exploited.

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Bible portrays fatherhood as a sacred responsibility that includes providing, guiding, disciplining, and actively protecting children—both physically and spiritually. While it does not contain a single verse that says "fathers must be aggressive defenders against predators," it repeatedly emphasizes a father's duty to guard his family from harm, sin, and vulnerability through presence, wisdom, instruction, and spiritual leadership. God Himself is often pictured as the ultimate protective Father, serving as the model.

Key Direct Instructions to Fathers

 

Ephesians 6:4 (ESV): "Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord."

This verse gives fathers primary responsibility for raising children. "Bring them up" implies nourishing and protecting their growth, while "discipline and instruction" involves training them in God's ways to equip them against moral and spiritual dangers. The warning against provoking anger highlights balanced, non-abusive leadership that builds rather than breaks.

Proverbs 22:6: "Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not turn from it."

This calls fathers (and parents) to proactively guide children onto a righteous path, which serves as long-term protection from poor choices or harmful influences.

Proverbs 13:24: "Whoever spares the rod hates his son, but he who loves him is diligent to discipline him."

Loving discipline is framed as protective care—guiding children away from folly and self-destruction. (This is balanced by calls for compassionate, non-exasperating leadership elsewhere.)

 

God's Example as Protective Father

The Bible often compares human fatherhood to God's character:

 

Psalm 103:13: "As a father has compassion on his children, so the Lord has compassion on those who fear him."

A good father shows tender yet strong care, knowing his children's weaknesses and shielding them.

Deuteronomy 6:6-7 (instructions to Israel, applied to fathers): "These words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise."

Constant, everyday spiritual instruction acts as a hedge of protection.

 

Jesus strongly warns against harming or causing children to stumble:

 

Matthew 18:6: "Whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in me to sin, it would be better for him to have a great millstone fastened around his neck and to be drowned in the depth of the sea."

This underscores God's fierce concern for children's safety and innocence, implying fathers (as protectors) must guard against those who would exploit or lead them astray.

 

Biblical Examples of Protective Fatherhood

 

Job: He rose early to offer sacrifices for his children, acting as a spiritual "hedge" around them out of awareness of their vulnerability to sin or attack (Job 1:5). This models proactive vigilance.

Noah: He obeyed God to build the ark, saving his entire family from destruction (Genesis 6-9).

Joseph (earthly father of Jesus): He protected the child Jesus by fleeing to Egypt to escape Herod's threat (Matthew 2:13-15).

Broader theme: Fathers in Scripture are called to be providers, leaders, and defenders of the household (e.g., 1 Timothy 5:8 on providing for one's family, or the general principle of headship in Ephesians 5:23).

 

Broader Insights on Protection

The Bible ties a father's protective role to:

 

Spiritual warfare and awareness: Being alert to dangers (physical, moral, or demonic) and trusting God while taking action (echoed in passages like Psalm 127 on the Lord watching over the house, or fathers as "watchmen").

Teaching and presence: Deuteronomy 6 and Proverbs emphasize daily involvement—being there, teaching truth, and building character so children are not easy targets for evil.

Compassion with strength: Protection is not harsh control but loving guidance that prepares children to stand firm (Proverbs 14:26 links fear of the Lord with confidence and refuge for children).

 

In short, Scripture presents the protective father as one who is present, spiritually vigilant, disciplining with love, instructing in God's ways, and willing to stand against threats to his family's well-being—modeling God's own fatherly care. This aligns with the idea that involved, attentive fatherhood raises the "cost" for anyone seeking to harm or exploit a child. Many Christian teachings on family draw from these principles to encourage dads to be both tender shepherds and strong guardians.

If you'd like specific translations, more context on any verse, or examples from Old vs. New Testament, let me know!881msFast

]]> Garth Heckman

The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com 

 

 

Bearer of Measured Brutality.

 

Do You YOU, feel like I do! Peter Frampton comes alive…

 

Be the BOMB… 

The man who would go off. Is it seen in your walk, talk, dress, your command of your kids, your eye contact, your voice, your mental involvement in your kids, your social setting awareness.

 

**Yes, I know exactly what you're referring to.** This comes from a 2017 interview with Jack Reynolds, a convicted child molester from Indiana who served over 12 years in prison for offenses in the 1980s (he claimed more than 300 victims). In the interview—conducted after his release and shared widely in child safety circles—he openly described his victim selection process.

 

One of the first things he assessed was the child's father. His exact words (from the interview footage and transcripts that have circulated): “If I thought the father was a threat, I would not approach the child.” He targeted boys who appeared isolated, from split or unstable families, or who lacked a strong, present father figure. If the dad seemed attentive, involved, capable of confrontation, or simply “in the picture” in a protective way, Reynolds moved on to easier targets. He wanted zero risk of exposure, confrontation, or interference—predators like him operate in secrecy and silence, and a vigilant father raises the stakes dramatically.

 

He scoped out potential victims in everyday places like school grounds, Little League fields, or neighborhoods, and he explicitly looked for vulnerability: no close friends the child would confide in, mothers who might welcome “help” from a friendly outsider (he’d position himself as a “superhero” offering to take the kid for outings), boys with little sexual experience, and families lacking strong values or structure.

 

### Other insights from this and similar predator accounts

This isn’t unique to Reynolds—multiple law enforcement interviews with convicted offenders (and research on grooming patterns) show predators treat “father presence” as a high-risk filter. Here are related patterns that consistently come up:

 

- **They prioritize low-resistance targets overall.** Beyond the father, they avoid kids who seem confident, assertive, or likely to speak up immediately. They test boundaries gradually (grooming) and bail if the child resists early or has a tight support network (close friends, involved siblings, or other adults who pay attention). Reynolds himself said he skipped kids “that he would tell” because the risk of the child disclosing was too high.

 

- **Absence or perceived weakness is the real opportunity.** Predators don’t necessarily need a completely absent dad—they exploit dads who appear distracted, disengaged, overly trusting, or unwilling/unable to act. The “threat” Reynolds described wasn’t just physical size or aggression; it was *perceived capability and willingness* to protect (being present, setting boundaries, staying alert). This is why child-safety experts emphasize that involved, visible fatherhood itself is a deterrent.

 

- **Grooming is calculated, not impulsive.** Reynolds stressed it wasn’t random or overnight—it involved scouting, building trust with the family, and exploiting cracks (e.g., a stressed single mom or a lonely kid). Modern versions often use social media for the same low-risk access, which he himself warned about in the interview as giving predators even more tools.

 

- **Broader deterrence themes from other interviews.** Similar accounts (from prison interviews and prevention programs) repeatedly highlight that predators scan for *opportunity + low consequence*. Strong parental involvement (dad *and* mom), clear family rules about strangers/adults, kids who are taught to recognize uncomfortable situations and report them, and communities where adults watch out for each other all shrink the “easy target” pool. Physical fitness or “intimidating” appearance can play a role, but consistent presence and boundaries matter more.

 

The core takeaway from Reynolds’ own words (and why clips of this interview keep resurfacing on parenting and men’s accounts) is simple: predators are opportunistic and risk-averse. They don’t want a fight or attention—they want silence and compliance. A father who is actively engaged, physically and mentally prepared to protect, and visibly part of his kids’ lives sends a clear signal: “Not this one.” It’s a powerful, evidence-based reason for dads to stay sharp, involved, and unapologetically protective. This interview was shared precisely because Reynolds hoped it would help parents close those windows of vulnerability he once exploited.

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Bible portrays fatherhood as a sacred responsibility that includes providing, guiding, disciplining, and actively protecting children—both physically and spiritually. While it does not contain a single verse that says "fathers must be aggressive defenders against predators," it repeatedly emphasizes a father's duty to guard his family from harm, sin, and vulnerability through presence, wisdom, instruction, and spiritual leadership. God Himself is often pictured as the ultimate protective Father, serving as the model.

Key Direct Instructions to Fathers

 

Ephesians 6:4 (ESV): "Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord."

This verse gives fathers primary responsibility for raising children. "Bring them up" implies nourishing and protecting their growth, while "discipline and instruction" involves training them in God's ways to equip them against moral and spiritual dangers. The warning against provoking anger highlights balanced, non-abusive leadership that builds rather than breaks.

Proverbs 22:6: "Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not turn from it."

This calls fathers (and parents) to proactively guide children onto a righteous path, which serves as long-term protection from poor choices or harmful influences.

Proverbs 13:24: "Whoever spares the rod hates his son, but he who loves him is diligent to discipline him."

Loving discipline is framed as protective care—guiding children away from folly and self-destruction. (This is balanced by calls for compassionate, non-exasperating leadership elsewhere.)

 

God's Example as Protective Father

The Bible often compares human fatherhood to God's character:

 

Psalm 103:13: "As a father has compassion on his children, so the Lord has compassion on those who fear him."

A good father shows tender yet strong care, knowing his children's weaknesses and shielding them.

Deuteronomy 6:6-7 (instructions to Israel, applied to fathers): "These words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise."

Constant, everyday spiritual instruction acts as a hedge of protection.

 

Jesus strongly warns against harming or causing children to stumble:

 

Matthew 18:6: "Whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in me to sin, it would be better for him to have a great millstone fastened around his neck and to be drowned in the depth of the sea."

This underscores God's fierce concern for children's safety and innocence, implying fathers (as protectors) must guard against those who would exploit or lead them astray.

 

Biblical Examples of Protective Fatherhood

 

Job: He rose early to offer sacrifices for his children, acting as a spiritual "hedge" around them out of awareness of their vulnerability to sin or attack (Job 1:5). This models proactive vigilance.

Noah: He obeyed God to build the ark, saving his entire family from destruction (Genesis 6-9).

Joseph (earthly father of Jesus): He protected the child Jesus by fleeing to Egypt to escape Herod's threat (Matthew 2:13-15).

Broader theme: Fathers in Scripture are called to be providers, leaders, and defenders of the household (e.g., 1 Timothy 5:8 on providing for one's family, or the general principle of headship in Ephesians 5:23).

 

Broader Insights on Protection

The Bible ties a father's protective role to:

 

Spiritual warfare and awareness: Being alert to dangers (physical, moral, or demonic) and trusting God while taking action (echoed in passages like Psalm 127 on the Lord watching over the house, or fathers as "watchmen").

Teaching and presence: Deuteronomy 6 and Proverbs emphasize daily involvement—being there, teaching truth, and building character so children are not easy targets for evil.

Compassion with strength: Protection is not harsh control but loving guidance that prepares children to stand firm (Proverbs 14:26 links fear of the Lord with confidence and refuge for children).

 

In short, Scripture presents the protective father as one who is present, spiritually vigilant, disciplining with love, instructing in God's ways, and willing to stand against threats to his family's well-being—modeling God's own fatherly care. This aligns with the idea that involved, attentive fatherhood raises the "cost" for anyone seeking to harm or exploit a child. Many Christian teachings on family draw from these principles to encourage dads to be both tender shepherds and strong guardians.

If you'd like specific translations, more context on any verse, or examples from Old vs. New Testament, let me know!881msFast

]]> Garth Heckman false No 462 1675 full Chuck Norris, Demons and Jesus Chuck Norris, Demons and Jesus https://tda.podbean.com/e/chuck-norris-demons-and-jesus/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/chuck-norris-demons-and-jesus/#comments Tue, 31 Mar 2026 12:44:32 -0500 tda.podbean.com/3f3dadb3-2364-3573-ae85-61df7c5416eb Garth Heckman

The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com 

 

 

One of my favorite lines from Chuck Norris movie was - If you come back in here Im going to hit you with so many rights you're going to beg for a left.

It is a scene where a man shows up to threaten Chuck and ends up getting his chest kicked in and everyone running away. 

Matthew 8:28 from screaming and threatening to begging and pleading. 

Why doesn’t Jesus run scared? I know it sounds simple - uh… he’s God? Hello? But what is behind this moment really? He was man who laid down his deity in order to live completely through the power of the Holy Spirit. So what is going on here?

First he went across the lake and storm on purpose… because after the demons get cast out he goes back… yes the city begs him not to come to their city… but he knew that already. He came for one demonic crazy man.

No every day that you are heading into at least ONE ordained moment where its going to feel more natural to run than to stand in faith. Now you may not actually run.. but you may shut up, shrink back from speaking the truth, sharing Christ, praying for the sick, inviting the person to church or to accept Christ. Its easy to run from those situations. But stand your ground… and watch satan get angry and threaten you… but stand your ground. What does Ephesians say after standing your ground, stand firm and stand your ground. 

He then calls them out and says what’s your name? Why would he do that? For those around him. He wanted the disciples to see that even when its on against 6000 you still have the victory. I can see Jesus asking the man and when the demons say “legion for we are many”… Jesus kind of smacks his lips, smiles and cackles… still not enough. YOU ARE OUTNUMBERED BY ONE AND ONLY ONE! 

Then he casts them into the pigs… You have the right to cast out demons… notice Jesus did not ask the man if he wanted to be delivered. He just did it. I am not asking someone if they want to be delivered… I am just going to pray that the demon leaves them…then I will ask them if they want to accept Jesus as their lord and savior. If not I will warn them that this demon will be back with even more demons and they will be in far greater danger… 

Finally, the man begs to come with Jesus, but he says no. Why? I think he would make an incredible disciple… right? Think of the stories and banter with the other disciples… well at least I never ran around naked and bloody…. Oh bob your killing me. Seriously… why not take him on the road? He needs to be the light to those he knows best. Your testimony is greatest to those who used to know you… don’t ever hesitate telling them - don’t be ashamed  - that is the power you have been given - that is the word of your testimony. 

]]> Garth Heckman

The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com 

 

 

One of my favorite lines from Chuck Norris movie was - If you come back in here Im going to hit you with so many rights you're going to beg for a left.

It is a scene where a man shows up to threaten Chuck and ends up getting his chest kicked in and everyone running away. 

Matthew 8:28 from screaming and threatening to begging and pleading. 

Why doesn’t Jesus run scared? I know it sounds simple - uh… he’s God? Hello? But what is behind this moment really? He was man who laid down his deity in order to live completely through the power of the Holy Spirit. So what is going on here?

First he went across the lake and storm on purpose… because after the demons get cast out he goes back… yes the city begs him not to come to their city… but he knew that already. He came for one demonic crazy man.

No every day that you are heading into at least ONE ordained moment where its going to feel more natural to run than to stand in faith. Now you may not actually run.. but you may shut up, shrink back from speaking the truth, sharing Christ, praying for the sick, inviting the person to church or to accept Christ. Its easy to run from those situations. But stand your ground… and watch satan get angry and threaten you… but stand your ground. What does Ephesians say after standing your ground, stand firm and stand your ground. 

He then calls them out and says what’s your name? Why would he do that? For those around him. He wanted the disciples to see that even when its on against 6000 you still have the victory. I can see Jesus asking the man and when the demons say “legion for we are many”… Jesus kind of smacks his lips, smiles and cackles… still not enough. YOU ARE OUTNUMBERED BY ONE AND ONLY ONE! 

Then he casts them into the pigs… You have the right to cast out demons… notice Jesus did not ask the man if he wanted to be delivered. He just did it. I am not asking someone if they want to be delivered… I am just going to pray that the demon leaves them…then I will ask them if they want to accept Jesus as their lord and savior. If not I will warn them that this demon will be back with even more demons and they will be in far greater danger… 

Finally, the man begs to come with Jesus, but he says no. Why? I think he would make an incredible disciple… right? Think of the stories and banter with the other disciples… well at least I never ran around naked and bloody…. Oh bob your killing me. Seriously… why not take him on the road? He needs to be the light to those he knows best. Your testimony is greatest to those who used to know you… don’t ever hesitate telling them - don’t be ashamed  - that is the power you have been given - that is the word of your testimony. 

]]> Garth Heckman false No 463 1674 full 13 Rules for Radicals... WWJD? 13 Rules for Radicals... WWJD? https://tda.podbean.com/e/13-rules-for-radicals-wwjd/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/13-rules-for-radicals-wwjd/#comments Mon, 30 Mar 2026 15:22:45 -0500 tda.podbean.com/9e8b68d4-7be7-35f1-ae21-66b6e419398f Garth Heckman

The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com 

 

 

The 13 Rules for Radicals

 

In 1971, community organizer Saul Alinsky published Rules for Radicals, a manual intended for "have-nots" to take power back from the "haves." His tactics focus on pragmatism, psychological warfare, and using an opponent's own rules against them.

Here are the 13 tactical rules Alinsky outlined:

The 13 Tactics

 * "Power is not only what you have, but what the enemy thinks you have." If your organization is small, hide your numbers in the dark; if it's large, flaunt it in the light.

 * "Never go outside the expertise of your people." If your activists aren't comfortable with a tactic, they will fail or lose morale.

 * "Whenever possible, go outside the expertise of the enemy." Look for ways to cause confusion and fear by forcing the opposition to deal with something they haven't practiced for.

 * "Make the enemy live up to their own book of rules." If their rule is "every letter must be answered," send 30,000 letters. You can kill them with their own red tape.

 * "Ridicule is man’s most potent weapon." It is almost impossible to counter-attack ridicule. It also infuriates the opposition, who then react to your advantage.

 * "A good tactic is one your people enjoy." If people are having fun, they will keep doing it and come up with better ideas.

 * "A tactic that drags on too long becomes a drag." Don't let your movement become boring. Commitment has a shelf life.

 * "Keep the pressure on." Never let the opposition rest or regroup. Use different tactics to keep the pressure constant.

 * "The threat is usually more terrifying than the thing itself." Imagination and anticipation of what might happen often cause more damage than the actual action.

 * "If you push a negative hard enough, it will push through and become a positive." Every move by the opposition can be flipped into a rallying cry for your side.

 * "The price of a successful attack is a constructive alternative." Never let the enemy score a point by asking, "Okay, what would you do?" Have a plan ready.

 * "Pick the target, freeze it, personalize it, and polarize it." Don't attack "the system." Attack a specific person (a CEO, a politician). It’s harder for people to ignore or defend a single individual than a nameless institution.

 * "The most important requirement for the tactic is the development of operations that will maintain a constant pressure upon the opposition." Action is a series of hits; you must keep the momentum going.

The Philosophy

Alinsky’s core argument was that in a fight for power, the ends often justify the means. He believed that the only way to effect change was through direct, often uncomfortable, confrontation.

> Note: These rules have been used across the entire political spectrum, from labor unions to modern grassroots tea party movements and digital activists.

 

 

Comparing the principles in Saul Alinsky’s Rules for Radicals with Biblical teachings reveals a fundamental tension between tactical pragmatism and moral absolutes. While both share a concern for the "have-nots" and the pursuit of justice, they differ sharply on the methods used to achieve those ends.

Here is how a Biblical perspective might respond to the core themes of Alinsky’s work:

 

1. The Ethics of Means and Ends

Alinsky famously argued that "the ethics of means and ends" are relative to the necessity of the situation—essentially, that the end can justify the means if the cause is just.

  • Biblical Response: The Bible generally rejects the idea that a good outcome justifies a sinful method. Scripture emphasizes that the way a person conducts themselves is as important as the goal they seek.
  • Key Principle: "Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good" (Romans 12:21). The pursuit of justice must remain "blameless and innocent" (Philippians 2:15).

2. Ridicule and Polarization (Rules 5 & 13)

Alinsky’s Rule 5 states, "Ridicule is man’s most potent weapon," and Rule 13 advises, "Pick the target, freeze it, personalize it, and polarize it." These tactics are designed to dehumanize an opponent to make them easier to attack.

  • Biblical Response: The Bible warns extensively against the "scoffer" or "mocker" (Proverbs 21:24) and places a high value on the dignity of all people, including opponents.
  • Key Principle: Jesus’ command to "Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you" (Matthew 5:44) stands in direct opposition to the tactic of "personalizing" and "polarizing" an individual as a target for destruction.

3. Truth vs. Perception

Alinsky viewed communication as a tool for power; he suggested that organizers must work within the "experience of the audience," sometimes using exaggeration or strategic deception to maintain momentum.

  • Biblical Response: Biblical ethics are rooted in the concept of absolute truth. Deception, even for a "good" cause, is viewed as a violation of God's character.
  • Key Principle: "Therefore, having put away falsehood, let each one of you speak the truth with his neighbor" (Ephesians 4:25).

4. Points of Convergence: Justice for the Oppressed

Where the Bible and Alinsky find common ground is in the diagnosis of social ills. Both recognize that power is often concentrated in the hands of the few at the expense of the many.

  • Biblical Alignment: The Hebrew prophets (like Amos and Isaiah) were "radicals" in their own right, fiercely condemning systemic corruption and the exploitation of the poor.
  • Key Principle: "Learn to do right; seek justice. Defend the oppressed. Take up the cause of the fatherless; plead the case of the widow" (Isaiah 1:17).

 

Comparison Table

Alinsky’s Rule / Concept

Biblical Counter-Perspective

Tactical Ridicule

"Let your speech always be gracious" (Colossians 4:6).

Polarization

"Blessed are the peacemakers" (Matthew 5:9).

Power-Centric

"Whoever would be great among you must be your servant" (Matthew 20:26).

Social Justice

"He has filled the hungry with good things but has sent the rich away empty" (Luke 1:53).

 

In summary, the Bible would likely support Alinsky’s objective of empowering the marginalized but would reject his methodology of using ridicule, deception, and the polarization of individuals as tools for change.

Would you like to explore a specific Biblical case study where a leader successfully challenged an existing power structure?

 

 

Summary: Power vs. Transformation

Ultimately, Alinsky’s response to injustice is a struggle for external power. He wants to shift power from the "Haves" to the "Have-Nots."

The Bible’s response to injustice is a transformation of the human heart, which then works its way outward to change society. It suggests that if you use hatred, ridicule, and polarization to win power, you will simply become the new oppressor once you are at the top.

]]> Garth Heckman

The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com 

 

 

The 13 Rules for Radicals

 

In 1971, community organizer Saul Alinsky published Rules for Radicals, a manual intended for "have-nots" to take power back from the "haves." His tactics focus on pragmatism, psychological warfare, and using an opponent's own rules against them.

Here are the 13 tactical rules Alinsky outlined:

The 13 Tactics

 * "Power is not only what you have, but what the enemy thinks you have." If your organization is small, hide your numbers in the dark; if it's large, flaunt it in the light.

 * "Never go outside the expertise of your people." If your activists aren't comfortable with a tactic, they will fail or lose morale.

 * "Whenever possible, go outside the expertise of the enemy." Look for ways to cause confusion and fear by forcing the opposition to deal with something they haven't practiced for.

 * "Make the enemy live up to their own book of rules." If their rule is "every letter must be answered," send 30,000 letters. You can kill them with their own red tape.

 * "Ridicule is man’s most potent weapon." It is almost impossible to counter-attack ridicule. It also infuriates the opposition, who then react to your advantage.

 * "A good tactic is one your people enjoy." If people are having fun, they will keep doing it and come up with better ideas.

 * "A tactic that drags on too long becomes a drag." Don't let your movement become boring. Commitment has a shelf life.

 * "Keep the pressure on." Never let the opposition rest or regroup. Use different tactics to keep the pressure constant.

 * "The threat is usually more terrifying than the thing itself." Imagination and anticipation of what might happen often cause more damage than the actual action.

 * "If you push a negative hard enough, it will push through and become a positive." Every move by the opposition can be flipped into a rallying cry for your side.

 * "The price of a successful attack is a constructive alternative." Never let the enemy score a point by asking, "Okay, what would you do?" Have a plan ready.

 * "Pick the target, freeze it, personalize it, and polarize it." Don't attack "the system." Attack a specific person (a CEO, a politician). It’s harder for people to ignore or defend a single individual than a nameless institution.

 * "The most important requirement for the tactic is the development of operations that will maintain a constant pressure upon the opposition." Action is a series of hits; you must keep the momentum going.

The Philosophy

Alinsky’s core argument was that in a fight for power, the ends often justify the means. He believed that the only way to effect change was through direct, often uncomfortable, confrontation.

> Note: These rules have been used across the entire political spectrum, from labor unions to modern grassroots tea party movements and digital activists.

 

 

Comparing the principles in Saul Alinsky’s Rules for Radicals with Biblical teachings reveals a fundamental tension between tactical pragmatism and moral absolutes. While both share a concern for the "have-nots" and the pursuit of justice, they differ sharply on the methods used to achieve those ends.

Here is how a Biblical perspective might respond to the core themes of Alinsky’s work:

 

1. The Ethics of Means and Ends

Alinsky famously argued that "the ethics of means and ends" are relative to the necessity of the situation—essentially, that the end can justify the means if the cause is just.

  • Biblical Response: The Bible generally rejects the idea that a good outcome justifies a sinful method. Scripture emphasizes that the way a person conducts themselves is as important as the goal they seek.
  • Key Principle: "Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good" (Romans 12:21). The pursuit of justice must remain "blameless and innocent" (Philippians 2:15).

2. Ridicule and Polarization (Rules 5 & 13)

Alinsky’s Rule 5 states, "Ridicule is man’s most potent weapon," and Rule 13 advises, "Pick the target, freeze it, personalize it, and polarize it." These tactics are designed to dehumanize an opponent to make them easier to attack.

  • Biblical Response: The Bible warns extensively against the "scoffer" or "mocker" (Proverbs 21:24) and places a high value on the dignity of all people, including opponents.
  • Key Principle: Jesus’ command to "Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you" (Matthew 5:44) stands in direct opposition to the tactic of "personalizing" and "polarizing" an individual as a target for destruction.

3. Truth vs. Perception

Alinsky viewed communication as a tool for power; he suggested that organizers must work within the "experience of the audience," sometimes using exaggeration or strategic deception to maintain momentum.

  • Biblical Response: Biblical ethics are rooted in the concept of absolute truth. Deception, even for a "good" cause, is viewed as a violation of God's character.
  • Key Principle: "Therefore, having put away falsehood, let each one of you speak the truth with his neighbor" (Ephesians 4:25).

4. Points of Convergence: Justice for the Oppressed

Where the Bible and Alinsky find common ground is in the diagnosis of social ills. Both recognize that power is often concentrated in the hands of the few at the expense of the many.

  • Biblical Alignment: The Hebrew prophets (like Amos and Isaiah) were "radicals" in their own right, fiercely condemning systemic corruption and the exploitation of the poor.
  • Key Principle: "Learn to do right; seek justice. Defend the oppressed. Take up the cause of the fatherless; plead the case of the widow" (Isaiah 1:17).

 

Comparison Table

Alinsky’s Rule / Concept

Biblical Counter-Perspective

Tactical Ridicule

"Let your speech always be gracious" (Colossians 4:6).

Polarization

"Blessed are the peacemakers" (Matthew 5:9).

Power-Centric

"Whoever would be great among you must be your servant" (Matthew 20:26).

Social Justice

"He has filled the hungry with good things but has sent the rich away empty" (Luke 1:53).

 

In summary, the Bible would likely support Alinsky’s objective of empowering the marginalized but would reject his methodology of using ridicule, deception, and the polarization of individuals as tools for change.

Would you like to explore a specific Biblical case study where a leader successfully challenged an existing power structure?

 

 

Summary: Power vs. Transformation

Ultimately, Alinsky’s response to injustice is a struggle for external power. He wants to shift power from the "Haves" to the "Have-Nots."

The Bible’s response to injustice is a transformation of the human heart, which then works its way outward to change society. It suggests that if you use hatred, ridicule, and polarization to win power, you will simply become the new oppressor once you are at the top.

]]> Garth Heckman false No 468 1673 full OG vs. Goat! What does God want? OG vs. Goat! What does God want? https://tda.podbean.com/e/og-vs-goat-what-does-god-want/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/og-vs-goat-what-does-god-want/#comments Sun, 29 Mar 2026 19:10:24 -0500 tda.podbean.com/1b834839-2680-31de-90da-12a195f2b5da Garth Heckman

The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com 

 

Jimmy Carr - yes he needs to be listened to in small bites, but he is way more than just a comedian, he is a political assassin and has an incredible and unique way of looking at life. I saw a short clip where a young man asked him for advice on how to be a comedian. He said something… and maybe it just hit me more than most but he said - don’t try to be the best, try to be the only.

Get it? Be you. But when he said it the way he said it - it reverberated in me. Yes, be the only - because God made us all uniquely individual and we are all ONLYS. Most people spend their entire life trying to be like others… and never feel complete and never hit the mark for what God has created them for… but if you try to be the ONLY - you most likely will fall into place where God can use you most, best and completely. 

 

 

"OG" stands for Original Gangster, a slang term originating in the 1970s/80s to describe someone who is authentic, old-school, or a pioneer in their field. It is now commonly used to mean simply "original," referring to the first or classic version of a person, item, or concept. They are truly themselves, copying no one and not caring what anyone thinks. 

 

 

Here are a few OGs (Original Gangsters / foundational legends) from the Bible—pioneers who set the tone, faced impossible odds, built legacies, and influenced everything that came after them:

 

Old Testament OGs:

- Noah – The ultimate survivor and boat-builder. When the whole world went wicked, he stayed faithful, built the ark, and restarted humanity. OG of "prep and persevere."

- Abraham – The father of nations. Left everything behind on God's call, pioneered monotheism in a pagan world, and became the root of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. True OG patriarch.

- Moses – Delivered an entire enslaved nation from the world's superpower (Egypt). Parted the Red Sea, received the Ten Commandments, and led through the wilderness for 40 years. OG liberator and lawgiver.

- David – Went from shepherd boy to giant-slayer to king. Warrior-poet who unified Israel, established Jerusalem as the capital, and laid the foundation for the Messiah's line. Ultimate underdog-to-legend story.

- Elijah – Fearless prophet who called down fire from heaven, confronted corrupt kings and false prophets, and was taken to heaven in a whirlwind. OG of spiritual warfare and boldness.

 

New Testament OGs:

- John the Baptist – The wild desert preacher who prepared the way for Jesus. Lived on locusts and honey, baptized crowds, and fearlessly called out hypocrisy (even Herod). OG forerunner.

- Peter – Impulsive fisherman turned "Rock" of the church. Denied Jesus once but became the bold leader of the early church, preached at Pentecost, and helped spread the faith. OG of redemption and leadership.

- Paul (Saul of Tarsus) – Former persecutor of Christians who became the greatest missionary and theologian of the New Testament. Wrote half the New Testament letters, planted churches across the Roman Empire. OG of radical transformation.

 

Bonus "Ride-or-Die" OGs:

- Joseph (son of Jacob) – Betrayed by his brothers, sold into slavery, rose to second-in-command in Egypt through integrity and God-given wisdom. OG of forgiveness and divine comeback.

- Esther – Orphan who became queen and risked her life to save her people from genocide. OG of courage and strategic influence ("for such a time as this").

 

These are the originals who walked by faith in hostile territory, changed history, and left blueprints for generations. Who’s your favorite Bible OG, or do you want more in a specific category (warriors, prophets, women, etc.)?

 

Eph. 2:10For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.

 

Workmanship/Masterpiece… not really - more like divine craftsmanship. 

It speaks of Gods specific and unique intentionality for each creation/person- his precision i.e. nothing as was before or will be. Like snowflakes…

 

Be the OG of your life and your walk - and watch what God can do! 

]]> Garth Heckman

The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com 

 

Jimmy Carr - yes he needs to be listened to in small bites, but he is way more than just a comedian, he is a political assassin and has an incredible and unique way of looking at life. I saw a short clip where a young man asked him for advice on how to be a comedian. He said something… and maybe it just hit me more than most but he said - don’t try to be the best, try to be the only.

Get it? Be you. But when he said it the way he said it - it reverberated in me. Yes, be the only - because God made us all uniquely individual and we are all ONLYS. Most people spend their entire life trying to be like others… and never feel complete and never hit the mark for what God has created them for… but if you try to be the ONLY - you most likely will fall into place where God can use you most, best and completely. 

 

 

"OG" stands for Original Gangster, a slang term originating in the 1970s/80s to describe someone who is authentic, old-school, or a pioneer in their field. It is now commonly used to mean simply "original," referring to the first or classic version of a person, item, or concept. They are truly themselves, copying no one and not caring what anyone thinks. 

 

 

Here are a few OGs (Original Gangsters / foundational legends) from the Bible—pioneers who set the tone, faced impossible odds, built legacies, and influenced everything that came after them:

 

Old Testament OGs:

- Noah – The ultimate survivor and boat-builder. When the whole world went wicked, he stayed faithful, built the ark, and restarted humanity. OG of "prep and persevere."

- Abraham – The father of nations. Left everything behind on God's call, pioneered monotheism in a pagan world, and became the root of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. True OG patriarch.

- Moses – Delivered an entire enslaved nation from the world's superpower (Egypt). Parted the Red Sea, received the Ten Commandments, and led through the wilderness for 40 years. OG liberator and lawgiver.

- David – Went from shepherd boy to giant-slayer to king. Warrior-poet who unified Israel, established Jerusalem as the capital, and laid the foundation for the Messiah's line. Ultimate underdog-to-legend story.

- Elijah – Fearless prophet who called down fire from heaven, confronted corrupt kings and false prophets, and was taken to heaven in a whirlwind. OG of spiritual warfare and boldness.

 

New Testament OGs:

- John the Baptist – The wild desert preacher who prepared the way for Jesus. Lived on locusts and honey, baptized crowds, and fearlessly called out hypocrisy (even Herod). OG forerunner.

- Peter – Impulsive fisherman turned "Rock" of the church. Denied Jesus once but became the bold leader of the early church, preached at Pentecost, and helped spread the faith. OG of redemption and leadership.

- Paul (Saul of Tarsus) – Former persecutor of Christians who became the greatest missionary and theologian of the New Testament. Wrote half the New Testament letters, planted churches across the Roman Empire. OG of radical transformation.

 

Bonus "Ride-or-Die" OGs:

- Joseph (son of Jacob) – Betrayed by his brothers, sold into slavery, rose to second-in-command in Egypt through integrity and God-given wisdom. OG of forgiveness and divine comeback.

- Esther – Orphan who became queen and risked her life to save her people from genocide. OG of courage and strategic influence ("for such a time as this").

 

These are the originals who walked by faith in hostile territory, changed history, and left blueprints for generations. Who’s your favorite Bible OG, or do you want more in a specific category (warriors, prophets, women, etc.)?

 

Eph. 2:10For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.

 

Workmanship/Masterpiece… not really - more like divine craftsmanship. 

It speaks of Gods specific and unique intentionality for each creation/person- his precision i.e. nothing as was before or will be. Like snowflakes…

 

Be the OG of your life and your walk - and watch what God can do! 

]]> Garth Heckman false No 463 1672 full Perfect yet I hold this against you! Perfect yet I hold this against you! https://tda.podbean.com/e/perfect-yet-i-hold-this-against-you/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/perfect-yet-i-hold-this-against-you/#comments Thu, 26 Mar 2026 19:59:31 -0500 tda.podbean.com/220d34b7-aba6-3795-bf49-fa270108e153 Garth Heckman

The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com 

 

Gumption

Fortitude

Tenacity

Perseverance

Spunk

Guts

Resilience

Backbone

Grit without grace

 

JEN - sin against her - no big

MY WIFE? - its a big. I know how much she has given me, served me. Loved me, sacrificed for me.

 

Nancy - I love being around her. She always has a heart of “there is so much more, God keep me humble, tender in love”. 

 

So we… 

II. Repent

 

** **The Truth is we think we need to repent if we have huge moral failure!  The church at Ephesus did not!  It was unnoticeable to all who saw them!

 

 

Teen Challenge someone stepped out to give their testimony and they talked about their addiction to work?  To Gossip?  To neglect of their spiritual gift?  Judgmental spirit, To not being in love with Jesus anymore! 

 

 

Repeat: "Do the things you did at first." 

 

Between Eph. 1 and Revelation Chapter 2 was 30-35 years. Thats all it took to lose ones love. 

Key verses in Ephesus OF WHAT THE CHURCH WAS LIKE!

A hate for sin in your life

A love for fellow believers and the lost

An active faith i.e. sharing X

Growing in spiritual wisdom.

 

Here is the secret: it is a repeatable pattern

Ask God to show you your sin

Ask God to help you see the lost

Ask God to grow your faith.

Share the gospel. 

]]> Garth Heckman

The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com 

 

Gumption

Fortitude

Tenacity

Perseverance

Spunk

Guts

Resilience

Backbone

Grit without grace

 

JEN - sin against her - no big

MY WIFE? - its a big. I know how much she has given me, served me. Loved me, sacrificed for me.

 

Nancy - I love being around her. She always has a heart of “there is so much more, God keep me humble, tender in love”. 

 

So we… 

II. Repent

 

** **The Truth is we think we need to repent if we have huge moral failure!  The church at Ephesus did not!  It was unnoticeable to all who saw them!

 

 

Teen Challenge someone stepped out to give their testimony and they talked about their addiction to work?  To Gossip?  To neglect of their spiritual gift?  Judgmental spirit, To not being in love with Jesus anymore! 

 

 

Repeat: "Do the things you did at first." 

 

Between Eph. 1 and Revelation Chapter 2 was 30-35 years. Thats all it took to lose ones love. 

Key verses in Ephesus OF WHAT THE CHURCH WAS LIKE!

A hate for sin in your life

A love for fellow believers and the lost

An active faith i.e. sharing X

Growing in spiritual wisdom.

 

Here is the secret: it is a repeatable pattern

Ask God to show you your sin

Ask God to help you see the lost

Ask God to grow your faith.

Share the gospel. 

]]> Garth Heckman false No 464 1671 full God says "Don't you ever".... what? God says "Don't you ever".... what? https://tda.podbean.com/e/god-says-dont-you-ever-what/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/god-says-dont-you-ever-what/#comments Wed, 25 Mar 2026 18:08:14 -0500 tda.podbean.com/efaa1f01-534e-345c-bcb2-44552b6eca3f Garth Heckman

The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com 

Heb.10:32 Don’t ever forget those early days when you first learned about Christ. Remember how you remained faithful even though it meant terrible suffering. 33Sometimes you were exposed to public ridicule and were beaten, and sometimes you helped others who were suffering the same things. 34You suffered along with those who were thrown into jail. When all you owned was taken from you, you accepted it with joy. You knew you had better things waiting for you in eternity.

35 Do not throw away this confident trust in the Lord, no matter what happens. Remember the great reward it brings you! 36Patient endurance is what you need now, so you will continue to do God’s will. Then you will receive all that he has promised.

 

We must remember What love is like!

Pedro Calderon the poet says “Without madness there is no love”!  

 

Rev. 12:11

By the word of our testimony we overcome the enemy.

 

Memories are free Spiritual nitro glycerin - explosive in our soul. And here is the secret - they don’t have to just be our memories - they can be from other believers. 

 

fMRI’s tell us the affect on the brain in real time:

Reliving memories : 

restore emotional grounding and clear thinking.

It is the emotional, mental and spiritual reset button. 

You see the big picture and God for who he is. 

 

Stories of healing, winning muslims to christ, provision, salvation.

 

]]> Garth Heckman

The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com 

Heb.10:32 Don’t ever forget those early days when you first learned about Christ. Remember how you remained faithful even though it meant terrible suffering. 33Sometimes you were exposed to public ridicule and were beaten, and sometimes you helped others who were suffering the same things. 34You suffered along with those who were thrown into jail. When all you owned was taken from you, you accepted it with joy. You knew you had better things waiting for you in eternity.

35 Do not throw away this confident trust in the Lord, no matter what happens. Remember the great reward it brings you! 36Patient endurance is what you need now, so you will continue to do God’s will. Then you will receive all that he has promised.

 

We must remember What love is like!

Pedro Calderon the poet says “Without madness there is no love”!  

 

Rev. 12:11

By the word of our testimony we overcome the enemy.

 

Memories are free Spiritual nitro glycerin - explosive in our soul. And here is the secret - they don’t have to just be our memories - they can be from other believers. 

 

fMRI’s tell us the affect on the brain in real time:

Reliving memories : 

restore emotional grounding and clear thinking.

It is the emotional, mental and spiritual reset button. 

You see the big picture and God for who he is. 

 

Stories of healing, winning muslims to christ, provision, salvation.

 

]]> Garth Heckman false No 463 1670 full Clang clang clang goes the Christian Clang clang clang goes the Christian https://tda.podbean.com/e/clang-clang-clang-goes-the-christian/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/clang-clang-clang-goes-the-christian/#comments Tue, 24 Mar 2026 13:39:04 -0500 tda.podbean.com/36a80a92-fb46-3138-9853-923130fe8723 Garth Heckman

The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com 

 

 

GRIT WITHOUT GRACE 

1 COR. 13:1 BUT  WITHOUT  LOVE  YOU  ARE  A CLANGING  CYMBAL. 

 

 

3. The Path Back: Remember, Repent, Repeat

Jesus doesn't just diagnose the problem; He provides a three-step recovery protocol in verse 5:

  • Remember: Look back at the "height from which you have fallen." Recall the early days when the fire was natural. What were you doing then? What was your mindset?

 

I.  REMEMBER

 

V. 5 Remember from the height you have fallen.

 

When Kim and I were first dating I would do the craziest things for her because I was madly in love.

Spent 1400 bucks on her for Christmas

Drove all night from Dallas to Madison to see her

And little things like leave here notes all over her house, car and work.

 

 

 

I Peter 1:9  But those who fail to develop these virtues are blind or, at least, very shortsighted. They have already forgotten that God has cleansed them from their old life of sin.

 

 

DO YOU REMEMBER WHEN YOU WERE IN LOVE HEAD OVER HEELS FOR JESUS?

What were you like?

What did you think about?

What were your spiritual disciplines?

Who were your friends?

What was your conversation like?

]]> Garth Heckman

The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com 

 

 

GRIT WITHOUT GRACE 

1 COR. 13:1 BUT  WITHOUT  LOVE  YOU  ARE  A CLANGING  CYMBAL. 

 

 

3. The Path Back: Remember, Repent, Repeat

Jesus doesn't just diagnose the problem; He provides a three-step recovery protocol in verse 5:

  • Remember: Look back at the "height from which you have fallen." Recall the early days when the fire was natural. What were you doing then? What was your mindset?

 

I.  REMEMBER

 

V. 5 Remember from the height you have fallen.

 

When Kim and I were first dating I would do the craziest things for her because I was madly in love.

Spent 1400 bucks on her for Christmas

Drove all night from Dallas to Madison to see her

And little things like leave here notes all over her house, car and work.

 

 

 

I Peter 1:9  But those who fail to develop these virtues are blind or, at least, very shortsighted. They have already forgotten that God has cleansed them from their old life of sin.

 

 

DO YOU REMEMBER WHEN YOU WERE IN LOVE HEAD OVER HEELS FOR JESUS?

What were you like?

What did you think about?

What were your spiritual disciplines?

Who were your friends?

What was your conversation like?

]]> Garth Heckman false No 462 1669 full 2nd class Love 2nd class Love https://tda.podbean.com/e/2nd-class-love/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/2nd-class-love/#comments Mon, 23 Mar 2026 15:40:01 -0500 tda.podbean.com/91a17b67-5a66-3ceb-ad72-c3ab2ebb547a Garth Heckman

The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com 

 

 

Deigo Garcia Diego Garcia is a remote island located in the central Indian Ocean, just south of the equator. It is the largest island in the Chagos Archipelago and forms part of the British Indian Ocean Territory

 

Many have lived through this scenario: a parent enters a Childs bedroom. Explains they are getting a divorce. The reason: They just don’t love each other the same way they did. 

CAN YOU IMAGINE TELLING JESUS THIS? 

 

Yet I hold this against you: You have abandoned the love you had at first." (Rev 2:4)

 

REV. 2+3 

Jesus tells us here that there are churches that are in grave danger:

You looked good but are dead

You compromised culture over Christ

You allowed adultery in the church

You allowed idolatry in the church

You look no different than the world

You allowed false teachers in your pulpits

 

We see something here - catch it: You can have impeccable theology, Model Christian behavior and no sin to speak of… and be Dead!

(Like fake dessert in the glass case) 

 

**You have heard “the main thing is to keep the main thing the main thing”. 

 

Harry Burnette Reeses

Reeses peanut butter cups… not using real chocolate or real peanut butter.

 

The scariest rebuke is to Ephesus: You look good. No one can tell by your actions… but I know - you no longer love me #1

 

Where’s the love?

We desire love when we are stressed: 82% of men said they rely on physical affection and sex to cope with stress and burn out. 

 

Many men have a hard time fully investing into Church/Christianity… because they do not feel the love of God. 

 

 

We see a conundrum - we lost our love for God, we don’t feel Gods love. 

 

On paper, they are the gold standard of a disciplined community. But then comes the "but."

"Yet I hold this against you: You have abandoned the love you had at first." (Rev 2:4)

 

*Jesus does not call them out on any behavior!

He calls them out on heart! 

 

 

 

mechanics vs. motivation.

 

Think of a musician who has spent years mastering every scale and every piece of equipment. They can play a perfect set without missing a note, yet the "soul" of the music is gone. They are hitting the right frequencies, but they aren't feeling the song anymore.

In our own lives, we often fall into the trap of the "routine." We show up. We do the reps. We check the boxes. But duty is a poor substitute for delight. When we serve, work, or live out of a sense of "should" rather than "want," we aren't practicing love; we are practicing management.

]]> Garth Heckman

The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com 

 

 

Deigo Garcia Diego Garcia is a remote island located in the central Indian Ocean, just south of the equator. It is the largest island in the Chagos Archipelago and forms part of the British Indian Ocean Territory

 

Many have lived through this scenario: a parent enters a Childs bedroom. Explains they are getting a divorce. The reason: They just don’t love each other the same way they did. 

CAN YOU IMAGINE TELLING JESUS THIS? 

 

Yet I hold this against you: You have abandoned the love you had at first." (Rev 2:4)

 

REV. 2+3 

Jesus tells us here that there are churches that are in grave danger:

You looked good but are dead

You compromised culture over Christ

You allowed adultery in the church

You allowed idolatry in the church

You look no different than the world

You allowed false teachers in your pulpits

 

We see something here - catch it: You can have impeccable theology, Model Christian behavior and no sin to speak of… and be Dead!

(Like fake dessert in the glass case) 

 

**You have heard “the main thing is to keep the main thing the main thing”. 

 

Harry Burnette Reeses

Reeses peanut butter cups… not using real chocolate or real peanut butter.

 

The scariest rebuke is to Ephesus: You look good. No one can tell by your actions… but I know - you no longer love me #1

 

Where’s the love?

We desire love when we are stressed: 82% of men said they rely on physical affection and sex to cope with stress and burn out. 

 

Many men have a hard time fully investing into Church/Christianity… because they do not feel the love of God. 

 

 

We see a conundrum - we lost our love for God, we don’t feel Gods love. 

 

On paper, they are the gold standard of a disciplined community. But then comes the "but."

"Yet I hold this against you: You have abandoned the love you had at first." (Rev 2:4)

 

*Jesus does not call them out on any behavior!

He calls them out on heart! 

 

 

 

mechanics vs. motivation.

 

Think of a musician who has spent years mastering every scale and every piece of equipment. They can play a perfect set without missing a note, yet the "soul" of the music is gone. They are hitting the right frequencies, but they aren't feeling the song anymore.

In our own lives, we often fall into the trap of the "routine." We show up. We do the reps. We check the boxes. But duty is a poor substitute for delight. When we serve, work, or live out of a sense of "should" rather than "want," we aren't practicing love; we are practicing management.

]]> Garth Heckman false No 459 1668 full Silence is power Silence is power https://tda.podbean.com/e/silence-is-power/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/silence-is-power/#comments Thu, 19 Mar 2026 13:57:10 -0500 tda.podbean.com/03475b9f-9836-3565-ab0d-acc617366c20 Garth Heckman

The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com 

 

 

John 18 Jesus before Pilate on trial for his life…. Innocent, guiltless, perfect and all knowing 

 

 

1. **Stop explaining yourself — it gives away your power.**  

   Explaining every decision or boundary seeks permission and invites debate, doubt, and unnecessary energy drain. Destiny doesn't wait for approval; over-explaining hands control to others and delays your progress.

 

2. **Silence is a powerful strategy and strength.**  

   Silence confuses critics, disciplines emotions, guards your vision, and preserves peace. It says "I don't need your approval" without words, denies manipulators engagement, and allows quiet alignment and growth (like seeds growing underground before visible results).

 

3. **Walk away without warning or explanation — it's wisdom, not weakness.**  

   Leaving draining situations, conversations, or relationships silently protects your purpose, creates space for better opportunities, and commands respect through discipline. It's often a divine shift into alignment; don't negotiate your life or beg for understanding.

 

4. **Your purpose is sacred and must be protected.**  

   Purpose doesn't require everyone's understanding or validation — not everyone is assigned to your journey. Seeking approval leads to compromise and diluted convictions. Live for fulfillment of purpose, not applause; let your actions, consistency, fruit, and results speak louder than words.

 

5. **Stop chasing approval — it's a moving target and a trap.**  

   Approval from people is unreliable and conditions self-doubt. Break free to gain clarity, freedom, and strength. Your value isn't measured by others' reactions but by alignment with your destiny.

 

6. **Discern energy and set strong boundaries.**  

   Recognize what (or who) drains vs. builds you — energy doesn't lie. Guard your peace, time, and focus fiercely. Boundaries aren't walls but gates that control access; set them without guilt to prevent invasion of your assignment.

 

7. **Let results be your testimony.**  

   When you stop explaining and start moving in silence, your life, growth, and achievements become undeniable proof. True power shows in discipline, peace, and unapologetic alignment rather than endless justification.

 

Overall message: Reclaim your energy, protect your peace, and trust that walking away silently from what doesn't serve you opens doors to what truly does. This empowers self-respect, emotional maturity, and unstoppable progress toward your calling.

]]> Garth Heckman

The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com 

 

 

John 18 Jesus before Pilate on trial for his life…. Innocent, guiltless, perfect and all knowing 

 

 

1. **Stop explaining yourself — it gives away your power.**  

   Explaining every decision or boundary seeks permission and invites debate, doubt, and unnecessary energy drain. Destiny doesn't wait for approval; over-explaining hands control to others and delays your progress.

 

2. **Silence is a powerful strategy and strength.**  

   Silence confuses critics, disciplines emotions, guards your vision, and preserves peace. It says "I don't need your approval" without words, denies manipulators engagement, and allows quiet alignment and growth (like seeds growing underground before visible results).

 

3. **Walk away without warning or explanation — it's wisdom, not weakness.**  

   Leaving draining situations, conversations, or relationships silently protects your purpose, creates space for better opportunities, and commands respect through discipline. It's often a divine shift into alignment; don't negotiate your life or beg for understanding.

 

4. **Your purpose is sacred and must be protected.**  

   Purpose doesn't require everyone's understanding or validation — not everyone is assigned to your journey. Seeking approval leads to compromise and diluted convictions. Live for fulfillment of purpose, not applause; let your actions, consistency, fruit, and results speak louder than words.

 

5. **Stop chasing approval — it's a moving target and a trap.**  

   Approval from people is unreliable and conditions self-doubt. Break free to gain clarity, freedom, and strength. Your value isn't measured by others' reactions but by alignment with your destiny.

 

6. **Discern energy and set strong boundaries.**  

   Recognize what (or who) drains vs. builds you — energy doesn't lie. Guard your peace, time, and focus fiercely. Boundaries aren't walls but gates that control access; set them without guilt to prevent invasion of your assignment.

 

7. **Let results be your testimony.**  

   When you stop explaining and start moving in silence, your life, growth, and achievements become undeniable proof. True power shows in discipline, peace, and unapologetic alignment rather than endless justification.

 

Overall message: Reclaim your energy, protect your peace, and trust that walking away silently from what doesn't serve you opens doors to what truly does. This empowers self-respect, emotional maturity, and unstoppable progress toward your calling.

]]> Garth Heckman false No 453 1667 full You don't care... which proves you care! You don't care... which proves you care! https://tda.podbean.com/e/you-dont-care-which-proves-you-care/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/you-dont-care-which-proves-you-care/#comments Tue, 17 Mar 2026 15:07:21 -0500 tda.podbean.com/6eea80b9-2593-3fc4-ac91-b12afa1f8855 Garth Heckman

The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com 

 

Its not how you see yourself… Its not how others see you, its how you THINK others see you that changes your behavior.

 

IMAGE

The bulldog’s nose is slanted backwards so that when it is in a fight it can bite down, hold on and still breathe.

 

IMAGE

TL Osborn- was told one week how much he was like Jesus in every way.  the next week he was told how much he reminded someone of the devil... you cannot let your image hinge on others opinions.

 

Most men don’t live based on truth. They live based on a guess.

Not:

  • Who they are
  • Not even who others actually think they are

But:

Who they think others believe they are.

And that invisible belief… is quietly controlling everything:

  • Your confidence
  • Your leadership
  • Your obedience to God

 

IMAGINATION

Worry is a misuse of creativity and imagination. Yet adults use it 99% only for worry.

 

 

That statement is deceptively simple—but it’s actually pointing at one of the most powerful drivers of human behavior: perceived social judgment.

 

Let’s break it down clearly and then get to the power behind it.

1. What it means

“It’s not how you see yourself”

  Your internal self-image matters—but it’s not always what drives your moment-to-moment behavior.

 

“It’s not how others see you”

  Reality doesn’t control you as much as you think. People may not even be judging you at all.

 

“It’s how you THINK others see you”

  This is the key:

 Your perception of their perception becomes your operating reality.

 

This is known in psychology as the “looking-glass self” (from sociology) and ties closely to social anxiety, identity formation, and behavior conditioning.

Change the perception → change the behavior → change the outcome → change your life.

How do I change my perception? Read gods word, pray, be with like minded Godly people. 

 

]]> Garth Heckman

The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com 

 

Its not how you see yourself… Its not how others see you, its how you THINK others see you that changes your behavior.

 

IMAGE

The bulldog’s nose is slanted backwards so that when it is in a fight it can bite down, hold on and still breathe.

 

IMAGE

TL Osborn- was told one week how much he was like Jesus in every way.  the next week he was told how much he reminded someone of the devil... you cannot let your image hinge on others opinions.

 

Most men don’t live based on truth.
They live based on a guess.

Not:

  • Who they are
  • Not even who others actually think they are

But:

Who they think others believe they are.

And that invisible belief…
is quietly controlling everything:

  • Your confidence
  • Your leadership
  • Your obedience to God

 

IMAGINATION

Worry is a misuse of creativity and imagination. Yet adults use it 99% only for worry.

 

 

That statement is deceptively simple—but it’s actually pointing at one of the most powerful drivers of human behavior: perceived social judgment.

 

Let’s break it down clearly and then get to the power behind it.

1. What it means

“It’s not how you see yourself”

  Your internal self-image matters—but it’s not always what drives your moment-to-moment behavior.

 

“It’s not how others see you”

  Reality doesn’t control you as much as you think. People may not even be judging you at all.

 

“It’s how you THINK others see you”

  This is the key:

 Your perception of their perception becomes your operating reality.

 

This is known in psychology as the “looking-glass self” (from sociology) and ties closely to social anxiety, identity formation, and behavior conditioning.

Change the perception → change the behavior → change the outcome → change your life.

How do I change my perception? Read gods word, pray, be with like minded Godly people. 

 

]]> Garth Heckman false No 465 1666 full What's my job again? What's my job again? https://tda.podbean.com/e/whats-my-job-again/ https://tda.podbean.com/e/whats-my-job-again/#comments Mon, 16 Mar 2026 13:56:39 -0500 tda.podbean.com/2534b402-5dea-38a2-a7a5-affb8a0cd546 Garth Heckman

The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com 

 

 

Lk. 19:10 For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.”

 

Now you might find yourself - like many of us at times - asking… God what do you want from my life? What is my life about? What should I be doing with my life?

I think this verse if pretty clear - it answers those questions. I have found personally and in many conversations that the minute details I want are typically found when I obey the big details. I know I am to seek and save the lost for Jesus - and when I major on the majors - the minors seem to fill themselves in. And yes, your job, who you marry, where you move, should you buy a house, etc… those are actually minors for the most part… if you put Luke 19:10 as a priority. 

Yes, who you marry is a big decision if you don’t have Luke 19:10 in place - but if you do… well it takes care of itself.

Think about it! 

 

Christians have wrestled with this question for centuries. Scripture actually gives a very clear pattern. When you look across the Bible, **three primary pathways consistently reveal God’s will**.

 

---

 

## 1. God’s Word (Scripture) 📖

 

The **first and most reliable way** to know God’s will is through **His written Word**.

 

God will **never guide you in a way that contradicts Scripture**. In fact, the majority of God’s will for your life is already written.

 

**Psalm 119:105**

 

> “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.”

 

The Bible reveals:

 

* God’s **moral will** (how we should live)

* God’s **character**

* God’s **priorities for life**

 

Examples:

 

* Love God and others (Matthew 22:37–39)

* Live holy lives (1 Thessalonians 4:3)

* Make disciples (Matthew 28:19)

 

Many people wait for a mystical sign while ignoring the **90% of God’s will already revealed in Scripture**.

 

**Rule:**

If Scripture clearly speaks on it, **you already know God’s will.**

 

---

 

## 2. Prayer and the Holy Spirit 🕊️

 

God’s will is also revealed through **relationship with Him**.

 

When you spend time in prayer, the Holy Spirit begins shaping:

 

* your **desires**

* your **convictions**

* your **direction**

 

**John 16:13**

 

> “When He, the Spirit of truth, comes, He will guide you into all truth.”

 

Often this comes as:

 

* inner conviction

* growing clarity

* peace about a direction

* persistent burden for something

 

It’s usually **not a lightning bolt**, but a **gradual alignment of your heart with God’s heart**.

 

A good prayer to pray is:

 

> “Lord, close every door that is not Your will and open the doors that are.”

 

---

 

## 3. Godly Counsel and Circumstances 👥

 

 

God frequently confirms His will through **wise people and providential circumstances**.

 

**Proverbs 11:14**

 

> “In the multitude of counselors there is safety.”

 

This includes:

 

* mentors

* pastors

* spiritually mature friends

* wise leaders

 

They help you see things you might miss.

 

God also works through **open and closed doors**.

 

**Acts 16** shows Paul trying to preach in certain regions, but the Spirit prevented him. Then another door opened.

 

So a helpful question is:

 

> “Is God opening this door, or am I trying to kick it down?”

 

---

 

# The Biblical Pattern (When All 3 Align)

 

When these three line up, clarity increases dramatically.

 

**Scripture confirms it**

+

**Prayer produces peace**

+

**Wise counsel affirms it**

 

= **Strong confidence in God’s direction**

 

---

 

# A Powerful Principle Most People Miss

 

God’s will is usually **less about a specific job and more about a type of person.**

 

God cares more about:

 

* your **character**

* your **obedience**

* your **faithfulness**

 

than the exact details of where you live or work.

 

**Micah 6:8**

 

> “What does the Lord require of you?

> To act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with your God.”

 

---

 

# A Simple Framework You Can Use

 

Ask these 5 questions:

 

1. **Is it biblical?**

2. **Have I prayed deeply about it?**

3. **Do wise believers affirm it?**

4. **Is God opening the door?**

5. **Does it advance God’s kingdom?**

 

If the answer is **yes to most of these**, you're likely moving in God’s will.

 

---

 

If you'd like, I can also show you something extremely powerful:

 

**The 5 specific ways God speaks in Scripture**

(dreams, burdens, doors, Scripture illumination, and calling).

 

Most believers miss at least **two of them**, and understanding them changes everything.

]]> Garth Heckman

The David Alliance

TDAgiantSlayer@Gmail.com 

 

 

Lk. 19:10 For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.”

 

Now you might find yourself - like many of us at times - asking… God what do you want from my life? What is my life about? What should I be doing with my life?

I think this verse if pretty clear - it answers those questions. I have found personally and in many conversations that the minute details I want are typically found when I obey the big details. I know I am to seek and save the lost for Jesus - and when I major on the majors - the minors seem to fill themselves in. And yes, your job, who you marry, where you move, should you buy a house, etc… those are actually minors for the most part… if you put Luke 19:10 as a priority. 

Yes, who you marry is a big decision if you don’t have Luke 19:10 in place - but if you do… well it takes care of itself.

Think about it! 

 

Christians have wrestled with this question for centuries. Scripture actually gives a very clear pattern. When you look across the Bible, **three primary pathways consistently reveal God’s will**.

 

---

 

## 1. God’s Word (Scripture) 📖

 

The **first and most reliable way** to know God’s will is through **His written Word**.

 

God will **never guide you in a way that contradicts Scripture**. In fact, the majority of God’s will for your life is already written.

 

**Psalm 119:105**

 

> “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.”

 

The Bible reveals:

 

* God’s **moral will** (how we should live)

* God’s **character**

* God’s **priorities for life**

 

Examples:

 

* Love God and others (Matthew 22:37–39)

* Live holy lives (1 Thessalonians 4:3)

* Make disciples (Matthew 28:19)

 

Many people wait for a mystical sign while ignoring the **90% of God’s will already revealed in Scripture**.

 

**Rule:**

If Scripture clearly speaks on it, **you already know God’s will.**

 

---

 

## 2. Prayer and the Holy Spirit 🕊️

 

God’s will is also revealed through **relationship with Him**.

 

When you spend time in prayer, the Holy Spirit begins shaping:

 

* your **desires**

* your **convictions**

* your **direction**

 

**John 16:13**

 

> “When He, the Spirit of truth, comes, He will guide you into all truth.”

 

Often this comes as:

 

* inner conviction

* growing clarity

* peace about a direction

* persistent burden for something

 

It’s usually **not a lightning bolt**, but a **gradual alignment of your heart with God’s heart**.

 

A good prayer to pray is:

 

> “Lord, close every door that is not Your will and open the doors that are.”

 

---

 

## 3. Godly Counsel and Circumstances 👥

 

 

God frequently confirms His will through **wise people and providential circumstances**.

 

**Proverbs 11:14**

 

> “In the multitude of counselors there is safety.”

 

This includes:

 

* mentors

* pastors

* spiritually mature friends

* wise leaders

 

They help you see things you might miss.

 

God also works through **open and closed doors**.

 

**Acts 16** shows Paul trying to preach in certain regions, but the Spirit prevented him. Then another door opened.

 

So a helpful question is:

 

> “Is God opening this door, or am I trying to kick it down?”

 

---

 

# The Biblical Pattern (When All 3 Align)

 

When these three line up, clarity increases dramatically.

 

**Scripture confirms it**

+

**Prayer produces peace**

+

**Wise counsel affirms it**

 

= **Strong confidence in God’s direction**

 

---

 

# A Powerful Principle Most People Miss

 

God’s will is usually **less about a specific job and more about a type of person.**

 

God cares more about:

 

* your **character**

* your **obedience**

* your **faithfulness**

 

than the exact details of where you live or work.

 

**Micah 6:8**

 

> “What does the Lord require of you?

> To act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with your God.”

 

---

 

# A Simple Framework You Can Use

 

Ask these 5 questions:

 

1. **Is it biblical?**

2. **Have I prayed deeply about it?**

3. **Do wise believers affirm it?**

4. **Is God opening the door?**

5. **Does it advance God’s kingdom?**

 

If the answer is **yes to most of these**, you're likely moving in God’s will.

 

---

 

If you'd like, I can also show you something extremely powerful:

 

**The 5 specific ways God speaks in Scripture**

(dreams, burdens, doors, Scripture illumination, and calling).

 

Most believers miss at least **two of them**, and understanding them changes everything.

]]> Garth Heckman false No 421 1665 full