Shows
Against the Grain39. Preparing Our Hearts for Christmas (with Wendy Caplinger & Travis Muscatell)During the Christmas season it is so easy to get caught up in the busyness and commercialism and miss Jesus. But as we move toward Christmas, how can we avoid the distractions and keep our eyes focused on Jesus? What are some of the rhythms we can cultivate to prepare our hearts to celebrate that miraculous event that ushered in the savior of the world?Show Notes:Joy Upon Joy by Charles SpurgeonCome, Let Us Adore Him by Paul David TrippAdvent for Exiles by Caroline Cobb
2025-12-0746 minAgainst the Grain38. The Old Testament Called It (with Brian Prascher)As we enter this Advent season anticipating the birth of Jesus, this episode reflects on His second coming and His return. When followers of Jesus understand where we are headed, it empowers us with strength and patience to live with purpose. In this episode, Eric and Brian discuss the second coming of Christ, the beauty of His promised return, and how this hope compels us to live countercultural lives.Show Notes:121 Advent Family DevotionalJames 5 Did the Bible Predict the Future? (Sermon 11.28.18)Against the Grain Ep. 7...
2025-11-3034 minAgainst the Grain16. Re-release: Prayer & God's Will (with Lorraine Holland & Sonja Allen)Prayer is foundational and vital to Christian living, however it can also be confusing and abstract. In this episode Lorraine, Sonja and Eric discuss growing a vibrant prayer life, the effects of prayer on our hearts and how to grow your faith through prayer.
2025-11-2349 minAgainst the Grain37. Return of Jesus (with Brian Prascher)The end times could be a source of hope as we look forward to the coming of the Lord, or it could be a source of fear in the face of such uncertainty. In this episode, Eric and Brian discuss a few views of how Jesus' return could play out. Take a listen and dive into learning more about anticipating the Day of the Lord.Show Notes:Revelation StudyDiscipleship on the Edge by Darrell JohnsonFour Views on the MillenniumMatthew 13, 22, 24, 251 Corinthians 1, 5
2025-11-1634 minAgainst the Grain36. Engaging Well with Spiritual Warfare (with Thayne Hillrich & Cindy Jolley)The idea of spiritual warfare can be complex and overwhelming. Often in our culture, we combat this by ignoring it completely. Scripture urges us against this and encourages us to press into truth seek to understand how to armor up against spiritual attacks. In this episode, Eric, Thayne and Cindy discuss how we can recognize the presence of evil in the world and live against the grain in how we deal with it.Show notes:Praying the Armor of God pdfThe Adversary by Mark BubeckSpiritual Warfare...
2025-11-0949 minAgainst the Grain35. Faith & Finances (with Vince Rice)Money matters. The Bible mentions finances over 2,300 times, and Jesus devoted 11 of his 39 parables to the subject. But what does a counter-cultural approach to money actually look like? In this episode of Against the Grain, Eric and Vince explore how biblical wisdom challenges our modern relationship with finances and invites us to live differently.
2025-11-0248 minAgainst the Grain34. Raising Kids with a Biblical Worldview (with Andrea Crum & Courtney Chandler)Being a parent in this cultural moment is tough. The biggest danger for our kids is the ideas that bombard them from every direction. How do we equip our kids to see through the lies of our culture and see things biblically? Andrea Crum joins Eric and Courtney to discuss this question. She is the Author of "Christ over Culture” and organizer of the Raising Biblical Kids Conference. Show Notes:Raising Biblical Kids Conference Alisa Childers Website & PodcastTheology MomCenter for Biblical UnityCol...
2025-10-2737 minAgainst the Grain33. Godly Friendships (with John Sayger & Ross Sawyers)In a world that tends to value quantity of friendships over quality, one way that we live against the grain is in the close, meaningful friendships we intentionally cultivate. In this episode, Eric, Ross, and John explore what it looks like to both have and actively pursue godly friendships.This episode explores deep, Christ-centered relationships, the importance of vulnerability and accountability, and practical ways to invest in the friendships that matter.
2025-10-1945 minAgainst the Grain32. Resolving Everyday Conflict (with Steve Mills & Jessica Howard)Conflict is an unavoidable part of being human—you've probably already faced it at least once today. Our culture typically pushes us toward one of two extremes: viewing conflict as a competition where we fight for our way, or avoiding it altogether. Yet neither approach brings us closer to peace or genuine unity.In this episode, Eric, Steve & Jessica examine Scripture and the life and teachings of Jesus to discover a countercultural path to resolving conflict—one that challenges our cultural instincts and leads toward reconciliation.Resource:Resolving Everyday Conflict by K...
2025-10-1251 minAgainst the Grain31. From Jealousy to Contentment (with Evan Sandmann & Laura Konopnicki)As we look around, we often find ourselves discontent, focused on what we don’t have or don’t t get to do. It is so easy to get stuck in this trap. How do we turn that around and move toward contentment? How do find freedom and joy in our life?
2025-10-0547 minAgainst the Grain30. The Anatomy of Anger (with Van Symons & Carmen Perez)Being slow to speak and slow to become angry is much easier said than done. Each day we are confronted with situations that spark us to anger in work, parenting, marriages and relationships in general. In this episode, Eric, Can, and Carmen discuss how we can break the anger cycle as we follow Jesus' example to move forward in love.
2025-09-2845 minAgainst the Grain29. Evidence for Design (with Jason Gardner & Rick Townsend)Faith is the assurance of what we cannot see, but that doesn't mean it's a blind faith. There is evidence for our faith all around us, fingerprints left by a designer. In this episode, Eric, Jason and Rick take a close look into the world around us to examine the evidence that leads us to a common understanding of a creative designer.
2025-09-2149 minAgainst the Grain28. A Life of Serving Others (with Joe Ylda and Randy Wynn)Living a life of service extends far beyond than the occasional service project. A life of service calls us to live against the grain in how we view our time and resources, at every stage of life.In this episode, Eric, Joe and Randy discuss how to cultivate a lifestyle dedicated to serving others.
2025-09-1435 minAgainst the Grain27. Family Rhythms (with Jermaine Arphul & Laura Konopnicki)We are officially back to school, which for many families means back to hectic morning routines and activity filled evenings. In the midst of family life, how can we as parents create rhythms that build a culture of faith within our families? How do you run your schedule so your schedule doesn't run you?In this episode, Eric, Jermaine and Laura discuss rhythms that establish praise in your household, cultivate a love for His word and grow little hearts into big hearts of prayer.
2025-09-0747 minAgainst the Grain26. Caring for Orphans (with Mike Douris - Orphan Outreach)One of the most tragic things we see in this world is kids who have lost their parents. This happens across the world, as well as right here in our community. As followers of Jesus, God calls us to take care of the vulnerable - especially orphans. It seems He has a special heart for the fatherless.How can we get involved in helping these vulnerable kids? Mike Douris from Orphan Outreach has spent a lifetime in the orphan care arena and brings incredible insight and stories of hope. Join us in this episode...
2025-08-3145 minAgainst the Grain25. A Fight Against Temptation (with Lorraine Holland & Jordan Hill)"Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him." James 1:12-15As followers of Christ, we will be faced with temptations and desires that are against the heart of the Lord. What does it look like to battle temptation and fight against the flesh? What does it look like to choose to walk in holiness with the Lord? In this episode, Eric, Lorraine & Jordan discuss dealing with real temptations and the pursuit of...
2025-08-2447 minAgainst the Grain24. Take Heart in Trials (with Jessica Howard & Sonja Allen)Trials aren't a matter of if—they're a matter of when. We all face moments that bring us to our knees: devastating diagnoses, fractured relationships, crushing losses, and countless other heartaches that derail our carefully laid plans.But as followers of Jesus, how do we navigate these dark valleys? How do we maintain an eternal perspective when our present reality feels overwhelming? And how can we offer genuine support to others walking through their own storms?In this episode, Eric, Jessica, and Sonja dive deep into James 1:2-4, exploring ho...
2025-08-1739 minAgainst the Grain23. About Change (with Jessica Howard & Evan Sandmann)Change is inevitable. At every stage of life, we encounter shifts and circumstances beyond our control. In this episode, Courtney, Evan, and Jessica explore how to navigate change well and support others through difficult transitions.In a world of constant flux, there's hope in unchanging constants we can hold onto: God's character, His Word, and His promises. Join us as we find comfort, encouragement and motivation in the unchanging nature of God's faithfulness—even in the face of life-altering change.Whether you're facing your own season of transition or walking alongside someone who is, this co...
2025-08-0344 minAgainst the Grain22. A Service Centered Life (with Brian Day & Lorraine Holland)In a culture obsessed with climbing ladders and promoting ourselves, followers of Christ are called to a radically different path—one of servanthood. Instead of fixating on our own needs and advancement, we're invited to shift our focus outward, seeking to serve those around us.Join Kevin, Lorraine, and Brian as they explore what it means to serve not just well, but exceptionally—going above and beyond in ways that transform both giver and receiver. This episode unpacks servanthood as more than an occasional act of kindness; it's a complete way of life that shap...
2025-07-2757 minAgainst the Grain21. Faith in Sports (with Seth Elledge & Evan Sandmann)At any stage in our lives, sports often take up a large portion of our time, energy and focus. What if we began to view the sports field as a mission field?In this game-changing episode, Jordan, Seth & Evan tackle how to integrate faith into the competitive world of sports. They dive into combating the pride that comes with athletic achievement, exploring how to live radically different lives that point others toward something greater than the scoreboard.From navigating the pressure-cooker environment of college athletics to raising kids who see sports as service rather than...
2025-07-1351 minAgainst the Grain20. Parenting Teens Against the Grain (with Lauren Adams & Jermaine Arphul)Parenting teens comes with its own unique set of challenges. Your teen is facing a constant pull to follow the culture of this world. In this episode, Eric, Lauren & Jermaine discuss how to come alongside your teen to help them live against the grain.
2025-06-2954 minAgainst the Grain19. Understanding Spiritual Gifts (with Evan Sandmann & Michelle Baze)How do you identify your spiritual gifts? What's the difference between natural talents and spiritual gifts? How should spiritual gifts be used within the church and in everyday life? Understanding your spiritual gifting can help you unlock how He has called you to serve.In this episode, Evan, Michelle and Eric discuss spiritual gifts and the many questions that surround this topic.Whether you're curious about spiritual gifts for the first time or looking to deepen your understanding of how God has equipped you to serve others, this episode offers biblical insight, real-world examples, and practical guidance for discerning...
2025-06-2248 minAgainst the Grain18. God Behind Bars (with Travis Muscatell & Lauren Rose)Join us for a powerful conversation about the hope of Jesus that’s igniting hearts and transforming lives in some of the most unlikely places.In this episode, Eric, Travis, and Lauren sit down to discuss the incredible work God is doing through God Behind Bars—a ministry that’s bringing healing, redemption, and lasting change to incarcerated individuals across the country.Whether you're curious about prison ministry or just need a reminder of how far God's love reaches, this is one story you don't want to miss.God Behind Bars
2025-06-1546 minAgainst the Grain17. A Heart for the Nations (with Arnaldo Soto & Guest)Why would someone leave everything they know and move to live with a people across the world? For so many, the idea of becoming a global worker is daunting and impossible. In this episode, Eric, Arnaldo & a global worker guest discuss how we can cultivate a heart for the nations- from moving overseas to opportunities to reach the nations in our own neighborhood.
2025-06-1053 minAgainst the Grain16. Prayer & God's Will (with Lorraine Holland & Sonja Allen)Prayer is foundational and vital to Christian living, however it can also be confusing and abstract. In this episode Lorraine, Sonja and Eric discuss growing a vibrant prayer life, the effects of prayer on our hearts and how to grow your faith through prayer.
2025-06-0249 minAgainst the Grain15. A Faith Worth Sharing (with Tommy Spain & Jamie Payne)No matter where you are in your faith journey, the idea of sharing your faith can be daunting. It's tempting to think that sharing the Gospel with others should be done by those who are better at it. The truth is, all believers are called to share the faith BOLDLY. In this episode, Eric, Tommy & Jamie discuss sharing the faith courageously.Show notes:8 Ways & Discipleship Resources
2025-05-2745 minAgainst the Grain14. Living Against the Grain As a Young Adult (with Evan Sandmann & Michelle Baze)Today’s generation of 18-35 year olds are facing unique challenges as they navigate being young adults in this culture. Whether you are a young adult yourself or have a young adult in your life, this episode is for you! While the life stages vary across this age range, from college students to becoming new parents, they are all learning to navigate the future while navigating the culture of this world. Join us as Evan, Michelle and Eric discuss living against the grain as a young adult. References:1 Timothy 4:121 Corinthians 7:7-9
2025-05-1858 minAgainst the Grain13. Faith at Work (with Bobby Whitney & Aubrie Lamar)The workplace is one of the biggest mission fields out there- and you are uniquely positioned for that field. In this episode, Bobby, Aubrie and Eric discuss how faith impacts work and how that can be leveraged that for the Kingdom. From jobs in leadership to entry level positions to working remotely, your job is a mission field waiting to be reached.
2025-05-1249 minAgainst the Grain12.5 Parenting Young Kids pt. 2 (with Pam Nichols & Courtney Chandler)Pam, Courtney and Eric continue their discussion on parenting young children in episode 12 pt. 2 of Against the Grain. Parenting can be as joyful as it is overwhelming. In this episode, we learn about discipling kids in a culture that is counter-discipling them. Join us for part 2 of this conversation about parenting young kids against the grain of this world.
2025-05-0541 minAgainst the Grain12. Parenting Young Kids pt. 1 (with Pam Nichols & Courtney Chandler)Parenting young children can be as joyful as it is overwhelming. In this episode, Pam, Courtney and Eric discuss discipling kids in a culture that is counter-discipling them. Join us for part 1 of this conversation about parenting young kids against the grain of this world.
2025-04-2830 minAgainst the Grain11. Evidence For the Resurrection (with Rick Townsend & Brian Prascher)Belief in the resurrection of Jesus is central to our faith. And as we look back at what is recorded in scripture we see solid evidence that the events described that day really happened. The best part is that you don’t have to be a scholar or have a degree to understand it! The resurrection is a story of ultimate hope. We know how the story ends, but how did it happen? Why was it necessary? What is the life-changing power of the cross? In this episode, Rick, Brian and Eric dive into the rich evidence of...
2025-04-2046 minAgainst the Grain10. A Conversation About Everyday Faith (with Ross Sawyers)Living out our faith is often easier in theory than in practice. The discipline of carving out time with the Lord, creating spaces for solitude, prayer, and sharing the Gospel are all aspects of the Christian faith that we often struggle with. In this episode, Ross & Eric discuss practical ways to cultivate habits of discipline in your life. Ross shares practices he has implemented in his own life and his walk with the Lord.Show notes:2 Corinthians 5:14-15Celebration of DisciplineFIRM: Family, Interests, Religion, Message
2025-04-1441 minAgainst the Grain9. A Non-Anxious Presence (with Rachel Smith & Cathy Estes)The number of people dealing with anxiety on a daily basis has skyrocketed in recent years. The question today is not what is anxiety or what causes anxiety. The question is what can I do about this anxiety I'm facing? In this episode, Rachel, Cathy & Eric discuss how we can learn to deal with anxiety to cultivate a non-anxious presence in our own lives. In a culture that only acknowledges anxiety, we can live against the grain by fighting to combat anxiety in our minds.Show notes:Philippians 4:5-71 Peter 5:7
2025-04-0747 minAgainst the Grain8. Delighting in the Word (with Jordan Hill & Katie McCaughey)In then Christian life, so many things beg for our attention. Even good things like church and LifeGroups and spending time with others cannot replace our need for God’s Word. When we delight in His Word, our hearts become replenished. When we delight in His Word, we gain new wisdom and understanding. In this episode, Eric, Jordan and Katie discuss practical ways to cultivate a heart that craves God’s Word.Show Notes:Psalm 1:1-3
2025-03-3145 minAgainst the Grain7. The Timeless Significance of Passover Week (with Josh McCaughey & Shelby Felton )Passover week often gets lost in all the other preparations for Easter. We are so focused on Easter Day and the celebration of Christ's resurrection, that we miss the opportunity of anticipation. The passover provides a mirror of what's to come with God's rescue story. Join us as Eric, Josh and Shelby discuss the significance of the season of passover.
2025-03-2439 minAgainst the Grain6. Abiding Well (with Lorraine Holland & Chuck Finney)“I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing." Part of living for Jesus is living with Jesus. Learning to abide is crucial to the Christian life because it is what sustains us and it's how we learn to hear his voice. In this episode, Lorraine, Chuck and Eric discuss what it means to abide, the challenges that threaten our abiding, and cultivating a life set on dwelling with Him. Scripture and Recommendations:John 15:5
2025-03-1747 minAgainst the Grain5. The End of the World as We Know It (with Jordan Hill)End times and end of the world? And what does that mean for us today? How can we exchange fear for hope in the face of the end of the world? In this episode, Eric and Jordan take a deeper dive into Mark 13 and the questions this passage raises. They look at three Biblical interpretive principles to explore this challenging passage and seek to understand how the truths revealed in Mark 13 point to an ultimate hope.Scripture & RecommendationsLiving Ready for Jesus' Return - A Sermon Revelation Bible Study Recordings
2025-03-1043 minAgainst the Grain4. Worship as a Way of Life (with Travis Muscatell)What is at the heart of worship? Why do we do it? In this episode, Eric and Travis discuss worship as a way of life. Join us to as we dive into how authentic worship extends beyond Sunday gatherings into daily life and as we see begin to see worship as a lifestyle of awe.Scripture & Recommendations:John 4:24How to Worship a King by Zach Neese
2025-03-0336 minAgainst the Grain3. Do We Really Understand Heaven? (with Vince Rice)The concept of heaven often feels distant and theoretical, floating far above our daily experiences. Yet this promise of eternity serves as more than just an abstract ideal—it's a powerful source of hope that inspires us to live with purpose, seeking to create lasting impact beyond our earthly days. In this episode, Eric and Vince explore the nature of heaven, unpack the biblical promise of a new heaven and earth, and discover how this eternal perspective can transform the way we live today.SHOW NOTESRecommendations:Journey of Desire by...
2025-02-2441 minAgainst the Grain2. Pursuing His Presence (with Thayne Hillrich & Cindy Jolley)One of the more abstract practices in a Christian's walk is cultivating a genuine relationship with God's presence. What does it truly mean to seek the the Lord in our daily lives? How do you even start?In this conversation, Eric, Thayne, and Cindy share their personal disciplines for pursuing His presence. They explore how they've developed countercultural rhythms that deepen their spiritual lives and nurture their relationship with our Heavenly Father.Through stories of personal transformation, practical wisdom, and scriptural insights, they discuss how intentional habits have impacted their encounters with God's presence.
2025-02-1747 minAgainst the Grain1. Finding Joy (with Courtney Chandler & Mike Mobley)Is true joy actually attainable? What even is joy? In this episode, Eric, Mike & Courtney dive into Biblical joy, the mindset of a life rooted in joy, and the heart that's set on the deep contentment that comes from trusting in God.Key Scripture: James 1:2Romans 12:2, Psalm 90:17, Proverbs 16:9Recommendations & ResourcesPrayer by Timothy KellerMike's Podcast -Not Quite ThereMike's Blog -Before The CrossFind A LifeGroup
2025-01-2151 min