Today we explore the significance of true friendship and how it relates to faith and vulnerability. They discuss the challenges of maintaining deep connections, the Biblical perspectives on friendship, and the importance of community support in overcoming personal struggles. The discussion also delves into the story of Lazarus, highlighting Jesus' humanity and emotions, and the role of faith in understanding life's challenges. In this conversation, Michael and Rick explore the themes of true friendship, support during difficult times, and the importance of being willing to engage with those who are struggling. They discuss the metaphor of rolling away the stone to help others, the cultural beliefs surrounding death and resurrection, and the need for faithful friends who will endure challenges together. The conversation emphasizes the significance of prayer, ministry, and the hard work that often goes unnoticed in spiritual growth.

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Life is often a grind. We rise. We work. We eat. We sleep. We accumulate. We repeat until we've achieved some variation of the "American Dream." In our society, this makes perfect sense.

We work until we do not want to work or do not have to work; then we enjoy our lives; then we pass the remaining wealth along to our children. They rinse and repeat. If we raised them right, they will do it a little (or a lot) better, then continue the cycle.

This all makes sense, but is it Biblical? Should this model be our definition of success? Jesus has a lot to say about this in Luke 12, and it is challenging and convicting.

I (Michael) love the Word of God as it so often shines a small light in the darkest corner of our hearts, gently teaching, convicting, correcting and instructing the body of believers on how to truly live our "best life" (2 Timothy 3:16). Closely listen to Jesus and His teachings, and you'll see this best life is a life of humility, selflessness, sacrifice, and service. It's abandoning everything in devotion to our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

I waited and prayed about releasing this episode after recording it. I considered re-recording it, as I could've said some things better, and I forgot to make a few other points. Ultimately It's not an easy conversation, but I believe it's one that needs to be had. Selfishly, this podcast is often about my own personal growth. It's a way for me to process what I'm wrestling with in God's Word, then simply taking the listeners along for the ride. I pray that it challenges and encourages you as much as it has me.

- Michael

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We are all created in God's image, and part of this foundational truth means we long for identity and belonging. As followers of Christ, one place we should find this is in our local community/local church. Unfortunately, this isn't always the case, but don't let that discourage you!

Rick and Michael discuss the significance of being a light to the world, which is best seen by being involved in a healthy, life-giving, and Biblical church. They also cover the importance of fellowship, discipleship, being empowered in your spiritual gifts, and most importantly--a deep, genuine, love for one another.

If you find yourself at a crossroads, we pray this episode encourages you to truly seek the Lord, patiently wait for His leading, then find the boldness and courage to step out in the direction He gently leads you!

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Winning. For some people, it's everything. But what happens when the notion of winning bleeds over into our faith and relationship with Jesus Christ? Is it good, or healthy, to see "winning" as the central purpose of our faith?

Rick and Michael explore the concept of winning vs. simply being a light in today's world . We are all on a spiritual journey; as followers of Christ, it's of vital importance to demonstrate compassion, mercy, and kindness to the world around us. By being this, we are light.

One small light--your light--may not make a noticeable difference. However, as we gather together as a body of believers, partaking in Christ-centered fellowship and exalting the light of Jesus Christ around us, we will see a glimpse of how the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness does not overcome it (John 1:5).

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Prayer, specifically for elections, is a widely debated topic in the church. Oftentimes, Christians draw dividing lines based on their political parties, platforms or persons. The body of Christ can have a difficult time understanding anyone with an opposing view, and while well intentioned, is tempted and even encouraged by church leaders to pray for a specific outcome.

But is this wise? Is this Biblical?

Rick and Michael encourage listeners to remember if we want to see change in the world around us, revival starts with the individual. Through the growth as an individual, we can then raise the bar in our sphere of influence as "excellence begets excellence."

This conversation is challenging; it ultimately has little to do with politics and much to do with the power of personal testimony and the significance of allowing Christ to be the king of one's heart. Rick and Michael encourage the listeners in the midst of this turbulent time, to continue growing deeper in their personal relationship with Jesus Christ.

Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/3oUyS3DzqME

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Michael and Rick explore the concept of culture wars through the lens of Jesus's teachings. They discuss the relevance of the parable of the Good Samaritan and the story of the Woman at the Well, emphasizing the importance of compassion, understanding, and loving one's neighbor, regardless of cultural or social differences.

The dialogue highlights the need for deeper engagement with others and the significance of meeting people where they are in today's divided society. In this conversation, Rick Parsons and Michael discuss the profound encounter between Jesus and the Samaritan woman at the well, exploring themes of self-worth, grace, and the importance of community. They emphasize how Jesus broke cultural barriers, revealed his identity, and offered living water, symbolizing eternal life.

The discussion highlights the need for compassion and understanding in engaging with others, regardless of their background or past. The conversation concludes with a reflection on the importance of maintaining focus on Christ amidst cultural distractions and the call to be a light in the world.

Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QSHXyVO8L9g

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There's likely a chance that you've heard some of the buzz surrounding the Olympic opening ceremonies in Paris in July 2024.

Rick and Michael share some candid thoughts on what the world saw, and more importantly, they discuss one question that every Christian should ask themselves.

Watch on YouTube here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=52Ebsoazqzs

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The Apostles Peter and Paul both wrote letters comparing our spiritual maturity as Christians to food (milk and meat). As believers, what we consume and how we respond to situations is an indicator of our overall spiritual maturity. This episode builds off the previous discussion on understanding the condition (soil) of our heart.

Rick and Michael talk at length in candid discussion about their personal struggles in the spiritual maturation process. They dive into 5 areas men often battle as believers (LAPPP) and emphasize some subtle ways the enemy attacks our identity. This was a long but powerful conversation centered around the grace, victory and power we have through personal relationship with Jesus Christ.

Note: I (Michael) made two Bible references which I was in-correct: it is Ephesians 6 (not 2 Peter) that references the wiles of the enemy; Romans 7:24 (not Romans 8) that Paul talks about being a "wretched man".

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