In this deep and reflective episode, Adrian and Luke discuss the responsibilities and struggles of leadership—both in ministry and in life. They break down personal experiences of stepping into leadership roles despite feeling unqualified, navigating challenges, and learning what it truly means to lead like Christ. Using 1 Peter 5, they emphasize the importance of humility in leadership, the dangers of arrogance and entitlement, and the common mistakes leaders make when they forget to serve rather than control. They also explore how burnout, pride, and a lack of accountability can damage leaders and their relationships. This is a must-listen for anyone in a leadership role—whether in church, work, or family—who wants to lead well and finish strong. Key Episode Takeaways Leadership is about serving, not controlling – A true leader guides with humility and sets an example, rather than lording over others. Many leaders forget where they came from – When leaders lose touch with their past struggles, they struggle to empathize with those they lead. Accountability is critical – No leader should be above correction; having trusted people to give honest feedback is essential. Burnout is real and dangerous – Many leaders push too hard, never rest, and end up damaging their faith, families, and personal well-being. God doesn’t need you—He chooses to use you – A leader’s role isn’t about seeking applause or identity in leadership, but about surrendering to God. Scripture Reference: 1 Peter 5:2-3 – Be shepherds of God's flock, eager to serve, not lording over those entrusted to you. Matthew 23:11-12 – The greatest among you will be your servant. Mark 10:45 – For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve. Personal testimonies of stepping into leadership, struggles with pride, burnout, and learning to lead with humility. Call to Action If you're in any leadership position, ask yourself: Am I leading with humility? Do I have accountability? Am I seeking God first? Take time to rest, reflect, and realign your heart with God’s purpose for your leadership. Share your thoughts in the comments or on social media!

In this thought-provoking and challenging episode, Adrian and Luke unpack the question that many Christians never ask themselves: What have you done for me lately? This selfish-sounding phrase is not about entitlement—it's a wake-up call to how quickly we forget God’s goodness when things are going well. Drawing from Jeremiah 2, they explore how the Israelites repeatedly turned away from God despite His faithfulness, replacing Him with idols and forgetting all He had done. This conversation hits home, especially for believers who have experienced God’s blessings but then drift away, focusing more on success, money, relationships, or status than on the One who provided it all in the first place. If you’ve ever struggled with spiritual complacency, entitlement, or losing focus on God, this episode is for you. Key Episode Takeaways We easily forget God's past blessings – When things go well for too long, we start thinking we made it happen. Israel’s mistake is still happening today – They turned to idols after experiencing miracles, just like we chase success and self-reliance. Success and blessings can become idols – Money, career, relationships, and even ministry can take the place of God. God asks: What did I do to deserve this? – Like a loving Father, God wonders why we turn our backs on Him after all He’s done. It’s never too late to return to God – Repentance and realignment with Him are always possible. Scripture Reference: Jeremiah 2:5, 11 – God asks, What fault did your ancestors find in me that they strayed so far? Exodus 32 – The Israelites build a golden calf just 40 days after being rescued from Egypt. Matthew 6:33 – Seek first the kingdom of God, and all these things will be added to you. Personal testimonies of overcoming spiritual entitlement and remembering God’s faithfulness. Call to Action Take a moment today to evaluate your heart. Have you forgotten what God has done for you? Have you started putting blessings above the Blesser? Repent, realign, and seek Him first. Let us know in the comments or on social media how this episode spoke to you.

In this powerful and convicting episode, Adrian and Luke dive into the importance of cutting things off that lead us away from God. Using Matthew 5:30 as the foundation, they challenge listeners to self-examine their lives and identify the habits, relationships, and behaviors that need to be removed. While this passage is often associated with cutting off sin like lust and immorality, the conversation broadens to include toxic relationships, unhealthy habits, and even mindsets that keep us stuck in the past. The discussion gets real as Adrian shares personal struggles with anger, past violence, and the transformative power of God in helping him overcome old tendencies. Luke reflects on how cutting off toxic habits and past mindsets has shaped his marriage, faith, and personal growth. This episode is a wake-up call to anyone holding onto things that need to be pruned so they can walk fully in God’s purpose. Key Episode Takeaways Cutting off sin is not just about sexual immorality – It includes toxic relationships, unhealthy habits, and mindsets that hinder growth. Holding onto the past keeps you stuck – Growth requires letting go of old identities and embracing transformation. Many are afraid to let go of certain relationships and habits – Fear of isolation or discomfort keeps people from cutting off what God has already told them to release. What you consume matters – The music, TV shows, social media, and conversations you engage in can either draw you closer to God or pull you away. Spiritual growth requires self-examination – Are you allowing God to prune you, or are you resisting His work in your life? Scripture Reference: Matthew 5:30 – "If your right hand causes you to stumble, cut it off and throw it away..." John 15:2 – "Every branch that bears fruit He prunes so that it will bear more fruit." 2 Corinthians 5:17 – "If anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!" Personal Testimonies – How cutting off old habits, toxic relationships, and past identities led to transformation in both hosts’ lives. Call to Action What’s one thing you know you need to cut off in your life? Don’t ignore it—take action today. Pray, seek God, and trust that His pruning will lead to something greater. Share your thoughts in the comments or on social media!

In this eye-opening episode, Adrian and Luke tackle the self-help culture and how it has infiltrated the church and modern Christian thinking. They break down the dangers of focusing on "being your best self" instead of seeking God first. Many Christians unknowingly place their faith in self-improvement strategies, motivational speakers, and worldly success rather than relying on the source of all strength—God. Using Psalm 121, they emphasize that true help, protection, and guidance come from God alone, not from self-help gurus, social media influencers, or even well-meaning pastors. If you’ve ever felt caught up in the comparison game or frustrated with your spiritual growth, this episode is a must-listen to help you shift your focus back to God’s purpose for your life.

Key Episode Takeaways

Self-help culture has crept into the church – The focus on being "your best self" can often replace reliance on God.

Stop looking to the world for answers – True help comes from God, not from podcasts, influencers, or motivational speakers.

Comparison is a trap – Your walk with God is unique; stop measuring your progress against others.

Faith isn’t about looking good to others – A strong spiritual life isn’t about public perception but personal devotion.

God is your source, not your effort – Blessings come from God's will, not just from hard work and positive thinking.

Scripture Reference:

Psalm 121 – "Where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord." Matthew 7:24-27 – The difference between building on sand vs. building on rock. Discussions on the impact of self-help ideologies in modern Christianity Encouragement to build a personal relationship with God rather than relying on external influences

Call to Action Who or what are you looking to for guidance? Take a moment to evaluate your sources and realign your focus on God. He alone is your help and provider. Let’s talk—share your thoughts on social media or in the YouTube comments!

In this powerful episode, Adrian and Luke dive deep into the importance of a private prayer life and how it impacts every aspect of faith, family, and personal growth. They reflect on their own journeys, sharing how daily, intentional prayer has transformed their marriages, their households, and their relationship with God. Through studying Matthew 6:5-8, they break down Jesus’ teaching on prayer, emphasizing sincerity over performance. They also confront the issue of people relying on others to pray for them instead of developing their own connection with God. Whether you’re new to prayer or looking to strengthen your private devotion time, this episode will inspire and challenge you to deepen your relationship with God in secret—where true power lies. Key Episode Takeaways Prayer is powerful and should be consistent – Daily prayer shapes your life, strengthens your faith, and protects your household. Public prayer without private devotion is empty – If your prayer life only happens in front of others, it lacks intimacy with God. You don’t need fancy words—just sincerity – God already knows what you need; He wants a genuine relationship, not a performance. Stop outsourcing your prayer life – While communal prayer is important, don’t rely on others to connect with God on your behalf. Prayer builds spiritual protection – The more you pray, the more spiritual covering you have over your life and family. Scripture Reference: Matthew 6:5-8 – Jesus teaches how to pray sincerely, without showmanship. 2 Chronicles 7:14 – "If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray..." Personal testimonies on how daily prayer has transformed marriages and family life Encouragement for believers to develop their own prayer life rather than just seeking prayer from others Call to Action How is your private prayer life? Take a step today—set aside consistent daily time with God, no matter how simple your words may be. Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments or on social media, and let’s grow together!

Welcome back to Season 4 of the podcast! Host Adrian kicks off this powerful season by sharing his personal journey of obedience and faith. After making a significant move to Texas, Adrian opens up about the struggles, challenges, and ultimate peace that came with following God's direction. He dives into the idea that obedience isn’t always easy or comfortable, but it is always necessary. Alongside his longtime friend Luke, they discuss the weight of making faith-driven decisions, overcoming fear, and trusting God's plan, even when the path isn’t clear. Through biblical examples like Jonah, Saul, and Samson, they emphasize the importance of being in tune with God’s will, avoiding spiritual complacency, and ensuring that service to God is done with the right heart. If you've ever struggled with taking that next step in obedience or questioned what God is asking of you, this episode is a must-listen! Key Episode Takeaways Obedience isn’t always comfortable but brings God’s peace – Sometimes, following God’s will means leaving behind familiarity, community, and comfort. Fear can force people into disobedience – Many avoid taking bold steps because of fear, but delaying obedience only prolongs the blessing. God’s plan is bigger than our understanding – Sometimes, God closes doors to prevent us from getting too comfortable in a place that isn't meant for us. The danger of spiritual arrogance – Just because someone serves in church doesn’t mean they are aligned with God’s will; pride can lead to downfall. The importance of self-reflection and repentance – It’s easy to blame the enemy, but often, it’s God shaking things up to redirect us. Scripture References: Jonah’s Disobedience & the Storm (Jonah 1) Saul’s Disobedience & Rejection as King (1 Samuel 15) Samson’s Strength in Weakness (Judges 16) Personal Testimony of Moving to Texas & the Challenges Along the Way Call to Action If God is pressing something on your heart, don’t wait—step out in faith and be obedient. What’s holding you back? Share your thoughts on Instagram or in the YouTube comments, and let’s continue this conversation together!

Episode Summary:

In the Season 3 finale of the Even If Podcast, the hosts reflect on their journey, the significant personal and spiritual growth they've experienced, and the exciting changes ahead. This heartfelt episode delves into the challenges and triumphs of maintaining faith, navigating life's transitions, and addressing complex issues like race and church dynamics. Join them as they discuss the importance of authenticity, discipleship, and staying true to one's calling, even amid societal and personal upheavals.

Key Episode Takeaways:

Reflections on the growth and progress of the podcast over the past year.

Personal updates, including a major move from Arizona to Texas and its impact on the podcast's future.

The importance of living out one's faith authentically and being true to God's calling. An in-depth discussion on race and the church, highlighting the need for honest conversations and reconciliation.

The power of discipleship and the role of the church in addressing racial divisions.

Key Resources and Links Mentioned:

Urban Apologetics: Restoring Black Dignity with the Gospel by Dr. Eric Mason

Mention of the Pentecostal movement and its historical significance.

Call to Action:

We'd love to hear your thoughts on this episode. Please share your feedback, subscribe to our podcast, and follow us on social media. Stay tuned for more updates as we transition to Texas and prepare for Season 4. Let's continue this journey together!

In this heartfelt episode of the Even If Podcast, host Adrien welcomes his special guest, Steven Jackson, who shares an inspiring testimony of overcoming adversity and finding faith. Steven talks about his challenging journey from his childhood in Cleveland to growing up in Arizona, navigating family dynamics, and the pivotal role sports played in his life. He opens up about the struggles he faced, including his mother's imprisonment, his own battles with depression, and the transformative power of his faith in Jesus Christ. This episode is a powerful reminder of resilience, the importance of strong relationships, and the incredible impact of finding one's purpose through faith. Be sure to subscribe to the Even If Podcast for more inspiring stories and testimonies. If you found this episode impactful, please share it with someone who might benefit from hearing Steven's story. Don’t forget to leave a review and let us know how this episode touched your life.