Love God First

Love God First

How do I live in today’s world as a Christian and not only live but thrive in the gifting, calling and love of God? Join me as we journey together through entire books of the Bible, studying with the understanding that the people in the Bible were real people and had minds and emotions like us. We are going to study their stories to find the truths that apply to our lives today. The key is to meet Jesus and encounter Him so we can be changed by Him more and more into our true selves, not hampered by sin and fear. We will occasionally have guest speakers who will expand on the topics we find in our Bible study together, but most of the time we will go verse by verse, chapter by chapter through a book of the Bible to learn, apply and respond to God. Even the tough topics and verses will be explained and discussed!

Episodes

August 28, 2026 15 mins

In this second of three episodes on being led by the Spirit, we get more practical and start looking at the lessons we can learn from Ananias. Ananias models how effective a disciple can be when a person listens and obey Jesus! 

Keywords

walking in the spirit, ministering to others, Holy Spirit, effective ministry, Love God First, spiritual empowerment, Jesus' ministry, Christian faith, discipleship, kingdom of God

Listen
Watch
Mark as Played

In this first episode of a three-part segment on Love God First, we explore the concept of walking in the spirit and how it empowers believers to minister powerfully to others by using Ananias as our biblical example. We have been talking about personal spiritual growth between us and God in the past few episodes, but now our focus has shifted outward to those we can serve and love. We have a call to extend Jesus' ministry througho...

Listen
Watch
Mark as Played

As we continue talking about Walking in the Spirit on our summer series, we take an episode to discuss the process of receiving the baptism with the Holy Spirit. We explain the necessity of actively seeking the baptism, going to the Lord to overcome personal barriers, and preparing one's heart to receive this gift. There is a dual role of divine and human participation in the process, so the episode encourages listeners to persist ...

Listen
Watch
Mark as Played

The baptism with the Holy Spirit is not meant to be a theological truth we affirm but never experience. God intended it to be a very real encounter with His power, and He intended it to be a gift to believers. If you have questions about what the baptism with the Holy Spirit is or wonder why it even matters, this episode will help you! 

Scripture references:

The Father's promise: Ezekiel 36:27, Joel 2:28-29

Jesus was baptized...

Listen
Watch
Mark as Played

We are ending our three-episode talk about worship with a story and some practical tips for those who want to mature in their worship life. The biggest takeaway I have for you is to remember that God moves in us when we step out of our comfort zone. That is true as we walk out our lives in faith, and it is true in worship as well! 

Listen
Watch
Mark as Played

In this part two of a three-episode talk on worship, we ponder the significance of being filled with the Holy Spirit through worship. We talk about what worshiping in spirit and truth really means, and then we go to the Old Testament and consider what we can learn from King David since he was such a model worshiper for us all. 

Listen
Watch
Mark as Played

We are continuing the topic of Walking in the Spirit, and for the next three episodes, we  discuss the significance of being filled with the Holy Spirit through worship. The key is to develop our worship life to that point that our awareness of God's presence is restored continually. If you want to learn how to mature in your worship life, this episode (and the two following) are for you!

Book Citation: C.S. Lewis. Mere Chris...

Listen
Watch
Mark as Played

In this part-two episode, we continue to explore the theme of our summer series, Walking in the Spirit, by emphasizing the importance of setting our minds on the Spirit instead of on our flesh. In this episode we get practical and share two methods to redirect our minds back onto Jesus when we are tempted, or even when we are stressed, angry, worried or sad. 

Listen
Watch
Mark as Played

In this part-one episode, we continue to explore the theme of our summer series: Walking in the Spirit by emphasizing the importance of setting our minds on the Spirit instead of on our flesh. We discuss the conflict between our two natures, the power of the Holy Spirit, and the necessity of making conscious choices on where we direct our minds. Through a really great personal example, I contrast the di...

Listen
Watch
Mark as Played

We are getting practical on this introductory episode on walking in the Spirit. We're asking what is necessary not just to know but to believe about God and His care for me so that I can walk in the Spirit more consistently. I share some personal testimonies and encourage listeners to ask: what possible obstacles could hinder each of us from walking in the Spirit?

 Keywords

Walking in the Spirit, Christian Life, Holy Spirit,...

Listen
Watch
Mark as Played

I am happy to introduce a summer series focused on 'Walking in the Spirit.' We're going to talk about the importance of this practice in every Christian's life and discuss the internal battle between the flesh and the spirit. We'll explores the role of the Holy Spirit, we'll define the flesh and explore the significance of the fruit of the Spirit so that we are set up for hearing the beginning practical steps for believers to walk ...

Listen
Watch
Mark as Played

In this part two episode about family relationships, we talk about some practicalities of keeping our families healthy and happy as we journey together through life. The best families have biblical values that guide them as they deal with family conflict and building close relationships. Today we look at four general principles from the account of Isaac and Ishmael that will help us in our own family life. 

Listen
Watch
Mark as Played

In this part one of two episodes, we discuss the complexities of family conflict, drawing insights from the interaction with Isaac and Ishmael. This first episode focuses on the biblical account in Genesis 25, and then next week we will bring it home and apply the principles we see. If you have a family (and who doesn't), come learn more tools to resolve conflict in our most important relationships!

Listen
Watch
Mark as Played
In this part three episode I wrap up the discussion about the importance of seeking God's guidance when making significant life decisions. I recap key points from the two previous episodes (which I would highly recommend going back and listening to if you haven't yet), and I emphasize integrity, faith, and the necessity of prayer when deciding because we are all trying to make decisions differently as Christians! The talk highlight...
Listen
Watch
Mark as Played

In this second part of a three part series on decision-making, we continue looking at ten truths (plus a bonus) about seeking God's guidance for the big decisions of life. Last week we discussed only three elements of Christian decision-making, but there are several more applications we can pull out from the actions of Abraham's servant as he searches for a wife for Isaac in Genesis 24. Come and learn how to make better decisions t...

Listen
Watch
Mark as Played

In this first episode (of three) on seeking God's guidance for big decisions, we return to Genesis 24 to explore how Christians can learn to make important life decisions much better because we have the God of the universe to help guide and lead us. Using the story of Abraham's servant, I outline key principles for decision-making, emphasizing the importance of seeking God's will, acting in faith, and not taking shortcuts. If you h...

Listen
Watch
Mark as Played

In this third and final conversation with Pastor Craig Kessel, we discuss the signs of healthy relationships (and unhealthy ones) and the value of marriage in today's society. We provide insights and practical advice for individuals at different stages of their relationship journey, whether single or married! 

Keywords: marriage, relationships, spouse, preparation, qualities, advice, counseling, community, character, faith r...
Listen
Watch
Mark as Played

In this second episode with Pastor Craig Kessel, we explore the essential themes of marriage preparation and the importance of community and counsel in relationships. We share personal experiences and insights on how to evaluate potential partners objectively, emphasizing the need for consistent character, shared faith, and emotional health. The discussion also highlights the significance of seeking wise counsel and being aware of ...

Listen
Watch
Mark as Played

In this three-episode conversation, Pastor Craig Kessel and I explore the essential themes of marriage preparation, the qualities of a good spouse, and the importance of community in relationships. We share personal experiences and insights on how to evaluate potential partners objectively, emphasizing the need for consistent character, shared faith, and emotional health. The discussion also highlights the significance of seeking w...

Listen
Watch
Mark as Played

In this third episode that explores the account of Isaac and Rebekah in Genesis 24, we turn from pondering their account to pulling out the truths to apply to our own lives. There are many principles we can practice about preparing for marriage and finding a spouse as we consider the way Abraham, Isaac, Rebekah and the servant walk through the process. Join us as we discuss the DOs and DON'Ts of dating and courting in the quest to ...

Listen
Watch
Mark as Played

Popular Podcasts

    If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.

    Dateline NBC

    Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com

    Betrayal Weekly

    Betrayal Weekly is back for a new season. Every Thursday, Betrayal Weekly shares first-hand accounts of broken trust, shocking deceptions, and the trail of destruction they leave behind. Hosted by Andrea Gunning, this weekly ongoing series digs into real-life stories of betrayal and the aftermath. From stories of double lives to dark discoveries, these are cautionary tales and accounts of resilience against all odds. From the producers of the critically acclaimed Betrayal series, Betrayal Weekly drops new episodes every Thursday. If you would like to share your story, you can reach out to the Betrayal Team by emailing them at betrayalpod@gmail.com and follow us on Instagram at @betrayalpod and @glasspodcasts. Please join our Substack for additional exclusive content, curated book recommendations, and community discussions. Sign up FREE by clicking this link Beyond Betrayal Substack. Join our community dedicated to truth, resilience, and healing. Your voice matters! Be a part of our Betrayal journey on Substack.

    The Joe Rogan Experience

    The official podcast of comedian Joe Rogan.

    NFL Daily with Gregg Rosenthal

    Gregg Rosenthal and a rotating crew of elite NFL Media co-hosts, including Patrick Claybon, Colleen Wolfe, Steve Wyche, Nick Shook and Jourdan Rodrigue of The Athletic get you caught up daily on all the NFL news and analysis you need to be smarter and funnier than your friends.

Advertise With Us
Music, radio and podcasts, all free. Listen online or download the iHeart App.

Connect

© 2026 iHeartMedia, Inc.

  • Help
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Use
  • AdChoicesAd Choices