Shows
Celtic PreacherHow To Regain Your Balance When Life Feels Off-TrackIn a world that often feels chaotic and out of alignment, it's easy to lose our way. This podcast explores how to regain your balance, using Jesus’ timeless, practical wisdom for living the right way in this world. Text: Matthew 5 Sermon on the Mount Pod 256
2025-02-1840 minCeltic PreacherI Can't See It, But I'll Step Forward- Feelings of InadequacyLife is full of moments when we feel stuck, overwhelmed, or unqualified to take the next step. Like Simon Peter, one of Jesus' closest friends, we all experience those doubts and insecurities. Peter sets the example to push past feelings of inadequacy and let trust guide him forward. Luke 5 Pod 255
2025-02-1222 minCeltic PreacherThe Journey Of Beginning Again-Life's TransitionsLife is full of transitions – some unexpected, some chosen, but all bringing their challenges. This teaching explores how God guides us through change, offering guidance and wisdom for beginning again. Text Nehemiah 8.
2025-01-3024 minCeltic PreacherThe Change You Don't See-Learning To Trust In God's Quiet WorkLife often leaves us wondering what God is doing in our lives, especially when it’s unclear if we are on the right track. God is always at work, quietly shaping us, even if it’s hidden from us. John 2 Pod 253
2025-01-2524 minCeltic PreacherGetting Out Of The Way So God Can Do What Needs To Be DoneJesus teaches us that the Holy Spirit is an essential, indwelling presence we all have. We can learn how to access this extra help, preferably before our own resources run out. Pod 252 Jesus’ baptism. Text Luke 3:15-17
2025-01-1520 minCeltic PreacherThe Seeker's Journey-When You Need Something More Than What You HaveCuriosity, adventure, seeking, Yes, it's all a part of the drive within us. The Magi embody that spirit of adventure that we can quickly push to the side in our own lives. Restlessness isn't always a bad thing. Text Matthew 2. Pod 251
2025-01-0723 minCeltic PreacherWhen The Right Choice Feels WrongToday, we explore the truth that doing the right thing and saying “Yes” can still lead to struggle and inner turmoil. Luke 1. Mary Pod 250
2024-12-3123 minCeltic PreacherTuning In:How to Hear God’s Guidance More ClearlyIn a world where it’s easy to close yourself off, this teaching explores the importance of staying open to new experiences, perspectives and the unexpected changes that come to our lives. When we resist change or shut down new information, we can miss the transformative moments that could shape our lives for the better. Text Luke 1:5-19 Pod 249 Zachariah
2024-12-3124 minCeltic PreacherI’m Doing Again What I Don’t Want To Do-Bad HabitsWhen you find yourself stuck in a pattern of doing the same thing over and over again, don’t despair—see it as a wake-up call from God, a chance to make lasting change. Text Luke 3:4 Pod 248.
2024-12-1925 minCeltic PreacherWhen You Are Stuck Between Regretting the Past and Worrying About the FutureOur minds often drift to the past or the future, reminiscing, regretting, or worrying. Jesus warns that these distractions can pull us away from what God is showing us today. Reference: Gospel of Matthew 24. Pod 247
2024-12-0425 minCeltic PreacherBreaking The Silence of DeceptionIt takes effort to speak the truth, even when we genuinely want to. We live in a world where deception, division, and lies are pervasive. Jesus encourages us to live courageously and speak the truth, which starts with being honest with ourselves before we can be honest with others. Reference: Gospel of John Chapter 18 Pod 246.
2024-11-2623 minCeltic PreacherTrusting God With What's NextWorrying about the future is something we all struggle with. How do we live in such an insecure world? Jesus offers practical guidance for living when we feel like our safety net has been pulled away. Text Mark 13 Pod 245
2024-11-1921 minCeltic PreacherNow Would Be A Good Time To Be Brave-Facing FearNow Would Be A Good Time To Be Brave-Facing Fear
In a world of uncertainty, it's easy to be overwhelmed by fear, worry, and apprehension. But every day, we face a choice: we can either allow fear to paralyze us or step forward in faith, trusting that God will provide for us in ways we haven't yet imagined. This kind of trust can help us overcome our fears and fill us with new possibilities. 1 Kings 17:8-16. Elijah's Cake Pod 244
2024-11-1229 minCeltic PreacherThe Rawness Of Sorrow-Living Through LossGrief, change, and loss are unavoidable aspects of life. God meets us in our vulnerability, not with a promise of future assistance but with a guarantee of support in the present moment. Pod 243. John 11 Lazarus
2024-11-0525 minCeltic PreacherWhat Do You Want? Aligning With God's Way. What Do You Want? Aligning With God's Way.
"Express your heart's desire." This question from Jesus reveals the motivations behind our actions. Our impulses can misalign us with God or lead us to the right place at the right time. Mark 10 Bartimaeus Pod 242
2024-10-2921 minCeltic PreacherInsight From Discontent-Seeing The Unseen MotivationsWe all have hidden agendas in our interactions. Disappointment and conflict can reveal insights about ourselves, guiding us to better understand why we do what we do. Text: Mark 10 The Zebedee Brothers. Pod 241
2024-10-2224 minCeltic PreacherUnhealthy Attachments: Finding Peace WithinRecognizing unhealthy attachments is crucial, as they often lead to suffering. When something feels off, it's a sign that change is needed. Jesus calls us to release these attachments, offering us inner freedom. This presents us with a decisive choice to make. (Mark 10). Pod 240
2024-10-1527 minCeltic PreacherHeart Connections: God's Intention For Our RelationshipsHeart Connections: God's Intention For Our Relationships
Relationships can be life-giving and bring much joy, but they can also deplete us and cause us anxiety. Today, Jesus reminds us of God's intention for our relationships and the foundation on which they must be built to stay strong and beneficial to us. Text Mark 10 Pod 239
2024-10-0826 minCeltic PreacherLetting Our Guard Down: The Path To HealingDefensiveness often reveals our deeper fears and insecurities as a mirror reflecting our inner struggles. It's comforting to know that Jesus uses our everyday challenges to remind us of who we are in God's eyes and guides us in choosing how to live. The text is Mark 9:38-42. Pod 238
2024-09-3026 minCeltic PreacherRethinking Arguments-The Heart Of DisagreementsWhatever we argue about, disagree with, and become defensive about can be a mirror to our soul, revealing our insecurities and need for validation. Jesus shows us how to step away from the need to defend ourselves. Text Mark 9 The Sons of Thunder. Pod 237
2024-09-2325 minCeltic PreacherAre You Are Having Trouble Giving Up Something Or Someone?Jesus said you 'must' learn how to deny yourself; otherwise, you have no hope of following me. What does it mean to deny oneself? What are we called to relinquish? Text Gospel of Mark 8 Pod 236
2024-09-1724 minCeltic PreacherDeveloping Tenacity:The Power of Persistence in Pursuit of What MattersHow do you respond when God says, "No?" It's easy to give up, withdraw, and stop asking for anything. "What's the point? God doesn't care." We might think. That's the wrong approach, Jesus teaches. There's something to be said for persistence and tenacity. Ask and you will receive. Mark 7 Pod 235
2024-09-0827 minCeltic PreacherAccurate Judging? If You Don't Do It, Who Will?Contrary to popular belief, Jesus did not teach, "Don't judge." He taught us how to judge accurately, not superficially. He encouraged us to develop discernment, a skill that allows us to see beyond surface appearances and perceive the truth about people, events, and choices. Text Mark 7 Pod 239
2024-09-0327 minCeltic PreacherResilience-When Life Requires More Than I HaveIt's not the stunning victories in our lives that strengthen us. It's how we face profound doubts and fears and move on despite them. We can spend too much time mulling over the predicament we find ourselves in. There comes a point where we must choose to leave disappointments, anger, and fear behind and move on. The text is 1 Kings 19:4-8 The prophet Elijah is depressed and ready to give up. Pod 233
2024-08-2727 minCeltic PreacherThe Right Defense: Navigating Life With Divine ProtectionEver heard the phrase, "Don't be so defensive? While that advice often has its place, Scripture offers a different perspective on defense. Defending yourself is necessary, but we need wisdom on what we protect ourselves against. Ephesians 6. The Armor of God. Pod 232
2024-08-2026 minCeltic PreacherAnger's Wisdom And FollyScripture teaches us to channel anger constructively and avoid its destructive pitfalls. The spiritual work is discerning the motivation behind this intense emotion. Once we see why we are angry, we know how to proceed. The text is Ephesians 4. Pod 231
2024-08-1425 minCeltic PreacherThat's Not How I Remember It! (Rewriting our history)Why do we keep making the same mistakes over and over again? Are we picking the wrong partners or jobs, or do we blame someone else for our unhappiness? Why does history repeat itself? Much of the time, it's because we are not learning from our past mistakes. Learning from past mistakes is challenging because it takes brutal honesty. Exodus 16 Pod 230
2024-08-0421 minCeltic PreacherStuck In A Loop? Times of Testing.Are you facing the same challenge over and over? It might feel like you're stuck in a loop, but could there be a more profound lesson behind it? In this episode, we explore how God uses repeated patterns to give us insight into ourselves and our own spiritual tests. John 6 Philip's test Pod 229
2024-07-2926 minCeltic PreacherIs it My Will Or God's Guidance?Distinguishing my will from God's guidance and leading is an ongoing task. It's not easy to pause and reassess amidst life's reactions, but it is necessary if we desire to access the wisdom God promised us. It takes practice. Text Mark 6. Pod 228
2024-07-2123 minCeltic PreacherKnowing Your Joy-Stealers (Common Challenges to Spiritual Growth)Why do some of us give up quickly while others persevere and gain ground? Today, Jesus addresses some of the challenges of spiritual/emotional growth. Text Matthew 13 Parable of the Sower Pod 227
2024-07-1730 minCeltic PreacherHidden Doorways in Plain View - FailureSetbacks, weaknesses, and failures do not have to define us. Instead, vulnerabilities and flaws can be the doorway to the change we long for.
Scripture Text 2 Corinthians 12. Pod 226
2024-07-0828 minCeltic PreacherNowhere To Hide: Jesus’ Remedy For ShameFeeling like you don't belong? Jesus' miracles always pointed to something more than physical restoration. Today, Jesus targets the deep-seated issue of shame we all struggle with. There is a way out of the shame spiral through vulnerability and honesty. The text is Mark 5 Pod 225
2024-06-3025 minCeltic PreacherDon't Tell Me Not To Worry!Instead of succumbing to panic and believing we must solve all our problems on our own, Jesus reminds us that over-dependence on ourselves keeps us in places of high stress and anxiety. True trust transcends self-reliance. Mark 4. Pod 224
2024-06-2322 minCeltic PreacherDivine Timing-How Waiting On God Shapes Our ResponsesToday, we explore Jesus' counterintuitive teaching that requires us to learn how to wait on the empowerment of the Holy Spirit before we act. This transformative practice of waiting shows us that the most potent action can be inaction. It's during these inactive times we are inwardly changed, and that, in turn, affects how we respond to life's challenges. Acts 2 Pentecost Pod 223
2024-05-2025 minCeltic PreacherBeyond Regret: Finding Peace In Our Past ChoicesWhile many of us long to rewrite our past and undo poor decisions, God is not limited by our failures and weaknesses. Pod 222. Text Acts 1
2024-05-1223 minCeltic PreacherGuided By Obstacles:Embracing God's CorrectionHave you ever felt like obstacles and roadblocks are more than just challenges? Perhaps they are divine messages guiding us toward our true path. In this teaching, we explore the idea that these closed doors, blocks, and hurdles serve as a guide to steer us in the right direction. Text Acts 1:6. Pod 221
2024-05-0625 minCeltic PreacherEase Matters-Guidance When We Feel DrivenEase Matters-Guidance When We Feel Driven
Jesus' teachings encourage us to find rest and ease instead of constantly pushing ourselves to the limit. By staying connected to him, we can allow things to come to us and trust the path ahead. Sometimes, the best way to move forward is by stopping. Text Gospel of John 14 Pod 220
2024-04-2824 minCeltic PreacherUncomplicated Direction: Listening To God's VoiceJesus taught us that listening to God's guidance is surprisingly more accessible than we think. The capacity to hear God is innate within us, much like a sheep instinctively follows its shepherd's voice. The text is the Gospel of John 10. Pod 219
2024-04-2129 minCeltic PreacherIt's Going To Take Sometime, This Time-Times Of TransitionIn the midst of change and transition, if grief is added to the mix, we can feel lost and directionless. Yet, it is during these challenging times we often encounter profound moments of divine intervention guiding us toward a new understanding of ourselves and our reality. Text Luke 24 Emmaus. Pod 218
2024-04-1429 minCeltic PreacherUnlocking Shalom: Finding Peace In The Midst Of Fear And DoubtFear and doubt are inherent parts of our journey in this world. Jesus, the risen One, meets us and knows where to find us even when we cannot help ourselves. Text John 20:19-31 Pod 217
2024-04-1123 minCeltic PreacherWhen You Are Not Feeling The Presence Of GodOn that first Easter morning, Jesus' friends struggled to recognize him. This alive resurrected one was the same, and yet he wasn’t. We, too, have a steep learning curve in recognizing the presence of God in our everyday lives. Pod216
2024-04-0425 minCeltic PreacherDon't Ask Me I Have No Idea What Is Going On HereAre you going through a time of change, stress, and confusion? Today, we explore the idea that our interpretations of events as ‘good’ or ‘bad’ do not reflect the complete picture. The text is Mark 11. It’s Palm Sunday, the last week of Jesus’ earthly life, and as far as Jesus’ closest friends' experience, life can’t get much worse. Pod 215
2024-03-2520 minCeltic PreacherPrayer Is Not A Way To Escape SufferingToday, we delve deeply into the profound prayer life of Jesus. Unlike praying to avoid conflict or suffering, Jesus exemplified strength, truth, and courage in facing all challenges. With the words, 'Father, glorify your name,' Jesus showed us how to infuse every event, trial, and circumstance with the presence of God. Explore the transformative power of prayer and learn how to navigate life's trials with grace and courage. Pod 214. John 12:28. Father, glorify your name
2024-03-1822 minCeltic PreacherLife As A Journey Of Restoration: Look Up For HealingWhy did Jesus die, and how did this bring me healing thousands of years later? Jesus parallels His sacrifice on the cross with the story of the fiery serpents that plagued the ancient people in the wilderness. Texts: Numbers 21 and John 3. Pod 213.
2024-03-1029 minCeltic PreacherAnger Unveiled: Transforming Anger Into Purposeful ActionToday, we explore the intricate dynamics of anger – it's not the problem itself but rather what we choose to do with it. In this episode, we unravel the transformative potential hidden within anger, recognizing it as a potent communicator of crucial messages we might need to heed. Text John 2. Pod 212
2024-03-0327 minCeltic PreacherBeyond Personality: Breaking Free from Limiting PatternsHave you ever felt like your personality was holding you back, keeping you stuck in unhelpful patterns? In this episode, we delve into the profound teachings of Jesus, who reminds us that we are more than the sum of our personality traits.
Discover how shedding the limitations of your personality can open doors to growth, break the cycle of repetitive behaviors, and lead to a more fulfilling life. Text Mark 8. Pod 211
2024-02-2625 minCeltic PreacherWhen Life Tests YouIt is common for people to face times of testing in life. These experiences can be challenging and may push us to our limits. It is important to remember that we should not ignore or underestimate them, as they may be a 'desert experience' that we must go through. The key is developing the skills to stand firm and face opposition. Jesus' first lesson teaches us how to do just that. Pod 210 Text Mark 1
2024-02-1822 minCeltic PreacherI Don't Know What To DoThere is no shame in not knowing what to do. It takes humility to acknowledge our limitations. Jesus teaches that we can learn to listen to God's guidance. Listening to the right voice takes a little practice, like all new skills. Text Mark 9 Pod 209
2024-02-1128 minCeltic PreacherToo Many Needy People In Your Life?When you are tired, and your patience is thin, Jesus has some practical advice. Stop trying to meet every need. You might not be able to leave physically, but neither are you obligated to meet every need of those around you. Jesus didn't. The text is Mark 1.
2024-02-0528 minCeltic PreacherThe Need To Be Right (or left)The Scripture teaches that it's not of primary importance who is right or wrong in any conflict or disagreement. In other words, you could be correct in any dispute, but if that's all that matters to you, you are missing out on the freedom of "the need to be right." 1 Corinthians 8 Pod 207
2024-01-2824 minCeltic PreacherTrailer for Celtic PreacherTrailer for Celtic Preacher
2024-01-2300 minCeltic PreacherIf I Could Run Away I WouldIf you want to run away, ask yourself why. What motives you to want to run away? Sometimes, the things we try to avoid are areas where we can experience newfound freedom. Avoidance has a way of catching up on us. Lessons from Jonah Pod 206
2024-01-2120 minCeltic PreacherAnother Sleepless Night?If you are usually a good sleeper and something changes, you are probably worried or stressed about something. Waking up at night can be reframed as a potential opportunity to receive God's guidance. Today, we will hear about God's creative and unusual ways to get our attention. 1 Samuel 13 Pod 205
2024-01-1423 minCeltic PreacherFeelings Are Not Always TrustworthyNot feeling loved or feeling like we don’t deserve love is a wound in need of healing. "You are my beloved," God says. The challenge is receiving this love when we don't feel loved or deserving of love. This is the big learning curve. Text Mark 1. Pod 204
2024-01-0827 minCeltic PreacherWhen You Feel Like You’ve Lost ControlIt’s common to go through seasons when we feel out of control. Most of us try to resist feeling vulnerable at all costs. Jesus addresses this dilemma in today’s teaching. Text Matthew 11 Cousin John’s Dark Night of the Soul. Pod 203
2023-12-1726 minCeltic PreacherFinding Your Own North Star -A Clear Sense of DirectionFinding Your Own North Star
When you are entirely convinced of your life's direction, you don't need the affirmation, understanding, nor approval of others. Matthew 1. Pod 202 Lesson from the Christmas story, Joseph.
2023-12-1026 minCeltic PreacherLearning How To Guard Your Heart - While remaining OpenWe all find ways of coping with the challenges and stresses of life. Jesus teaches that not all of the ways we cope with anxiety, fear, and grief are helpful. He teaches we must learn how to "guard our hearts." Luke 21. Pod 201
2023-12-0422 minCeltic PreacherYes, Take The Risk - Move ForwardA life playing it safe isn't a life, Jesus taught. There is too much to lose by simply not trying. We may be hesitant because we might fail or be misunderstood, and our ideas may not work, but that's no excuse for not moving ahead. After all, isn't that what trust is all about? The Parable of the Talents. Matthew 25. Podcast 200
2023-11-2722 minCeltic PreacherThe Many Layers Of HealingWhen you think about it, life is one extensive, multilayered healing opportunity. Recognizing our need for help and healing is what it means to be human. The text is Luke 17. The Ten Lepers Pod 199
2023-11-1925 minCeltic PreacherLiving Without RegretIs it possible to live without regret? In today's parable, Jesus reminds us that avoiding, ignoring, or procrastinating things we need to say or do ultimately diminishes us and holds us back. The text is Matthew 21—the Parable of the Ten Bridesmaids. Pod198
2023-11-1222 minCeltic PreacherForget The Stiff Upper Lip (Grief and Loss)Mourning is the way to go, Jesus teaches. Don't deny it, shy away from it, stuff it, medicate it, grieve! Grief has many faces: unwelcome changes, a relationship ends, a loved one dies, we can lose a sense of purpose or sense we have no place in this world. The suffering of others around the world can take its toll. Today, Jesus teaches about the necessity of learning how to grieve well. Matthew 5 Blessed are those who mourn.
2023-11-0522 minCeltic PreacherRewriting History (Denial)Far too many of us carry heavy baggage from years of mistakes, guilt, failure, hurt, pain, and bad choices. Jesus addresses this in our teaching today. It's time to learn how to unpack all the worthless weight we have been packing and learn how to live free. Text John 8 Pod 196
2023-10-3023 minCeltic PreacherThe Fight Of Your Life (Inner Tension Isn’t Always A Signal Something Is Wrong)Inner tension isn’t necessarily a sign your doing something wrong. Jesus teaches that living in this world will cause us tension. It will feel like a pull to go in the very direction you try to avoid. This hidden, unseen inner battle is a part of living in this world. It's not something we can escape from, and it shows us our loyalty is to something more than what we can see here on this earth. Pod 195 Matthew 22
2023-10-2223 minCeltic PreacherThe Stories We Tell Ourselves To Get Us Off The HookDon't make excuses for yourselves, Jesus taught. Don't be too easy on yourself. If you make up stories about why you neglect the most essential things in your life, treat it as a wake-up call, and don't let yourself off the hook. Why settle for less? The Parable of the Banquet Luke 14 and Matthew 22. Pod194
2023-10-1522 minCeltic PreacherLooking For Love In All The Wrong PlacesLooking for Love in All the Wrong Places
It can appear to others that we have everything we need, but deep down, we know we lack. We know something is missing. Jesus, in today's teaching, shows us we can become attached to the wrong things. We might think our ways of coping are harmless and only affect us, but before we know it, we have lost our freedom. We are left with a restless longing. Text Mark 10 and Matthew 19 Pod 192
2023-10-0128 minCeltic PreacherAn Unfulfilling Pursuit - If I Could Have...An Unfulfilling Pursuit- If I Could Have…
Comparing ourselves to others can create a cycle of discontent. Jesus recognizes this tendency within us and addresses the mind that likes to compare and all its false promises. Pod 191 Text Matthew 20
2023-09-2525 minCeltic PreacherIs spiritual/emotional growth always difficult?Let's make sure we are on the same page. God has a plan for us. If we were a house, the project would be a complete tear-down and renovation, including the foundation. God is not making a few cosmetic changes here and there. This explains why our spiritual/emotional life feels overwhelming at times. God is making radical changes in us to help us become the people we were created to be. Matthew 18 Pod 190
2023-09-1920 minCeltic PreacherI Don’t Want To Talk About ItIf we continually think about a conflict in the past, it's a sure sign that we have unfinished business to attend to. Hurts have a persistent way of reappearing, grabbing our attention and demanding we listen. In today's teaching, Jesus gives us wisdom, freeing us from past conflicts with people/events/circumstances that have hurt us. Text Matthew 18 Pod 189
2023-09-1029 minCeltic PreacherAdjusting Our ExpectationsUnmet expectations can cause us a lot of disappointment. Expectations are acceptable if they harmonize with God's purpose for our lives. If we are not on the same page, we end up struggling against the reality of our lives, which never goes well for us. God isn't primarily leading us into more of what we think we need. Jesus taught us that we are being positioned for inner freedom, and that's a whole different purpose in our lives. Matthew 16:21-28 Pod 188
2023-09-0430 minCeltic PreacherWho Is Jesus? Is He God?"Who do you say I Am?" is a question everyone grapples with after hearing Jesus' teachings. Can Jesus be trusted? Like Peter, we can be ambivalent and second-guess our choices when life gets overly challenging. Following Jesus is about being led beyond our frail personalities. Matthew 16
2023-08-2725 minCeltic PreacherCourage Is Not The Absence Of FearWe all have our fears, and as long as we are on this earth, fear will be known to us. Jesus' way of navigating fear is to invite us to move toward it. The answer isn't to deny fear or run from it. Jesus didn't let fear dictate his every move. He said courage is needed, but a brave step forward might be as simple as doing the next thing that needs to be done. In other words, I may be frightened out of my wits, but I will keep doing what I need to do. The text is...2023-08-1327 minCeltic PreacherGoing Through A Season Of Uncertainty?The scripture teaches, "You are right. You often don't know what to do." The right path is not always clear, the correct response can elude us, and the most beneficial way to help someone doesn't always work. So take the pressure off because God is working on your behalf as you go through a season of uncertainty. The text is Romans 8 Podcast 184
2023-07-3125 minCeltic PreacherThe Art Of JudgingJesus did not teach, Do not judge; he taught, Do not judge rashly. In other words, Jesus didn't say, "Never judge," which is impossible in this world; since we make judgments daily. Jesus taught us to be cautious about decisions, wait, and not make premature judgments because there's a strong possibility we will be wrong. The text is, The Parable of the Weeds, from Matthew 13 Pod 183
2023-07-2423 minCeltic PreacherI’m Doing What I Don’t Want To DoIt's a struggle; the apostle Paul would admit, as well as all the other followers of Jesus, down throughout the ages. I want to live one way, and my mind insists on taking me in another direction. Is there any hope for me? Absolutely, the apostle Paul teaches. Once you see the problem, you are halfway there. The text is Romans 7. Pod 181
2023-07-0924 minCeltic PreacherObservations On Knowing What To Do And When To Do ItWe don't need to be taught personal preference. Our wants, desires, and perceived needs are hard-wired into us, so receiving guidance from God isn't always straightforward. We might tell ourselves we'd like some input from God, but when our plans fall apart, we are disappointed. What if our plans were meant to fall apart? Sometimes God bypasses our personal preferences to show us a better way. Text- Acts 11 Peter changes his mind. Pod 180
2023-07-0332 minCeltic PreacherSomething New Cannot Appear Until Something Old Falls Apart.Our guard of self-protection is often lowered during times of great need and vulnerability. What we call "weakness" is often the doorway God uses to bring us deep healing. The healing and transformation can often come without warning and during the most unlikely circumstances. Text Acts 16 Paul's unexpected healing. Pod 179
2023-06-2826 minCeltic PreacherThere’s A Reason You Can’t Move ForwardYou have plans; you think it's a great idea, yet you are blocked. You can't move forward after all your time and energy. Has it all been a waste of time? "Absolutely not," Paul, Lydia, Silas, and the early followers of Jesus would say, "it's a roadblock. God is stopping you from taking the wrong direction. So don't get downhearted." Acts 16:6-15 Pod 178
2023-06-1131 minCeltic PreacherWhen You Have Tried Everything, And It’s Not Getting Any BetterIt's not unusual for the same challenge to resurface repeatedly. You think you've learned your lesson, conquered your fear, or forgiven someone, and sooner or later, the same issue shows its face, and you feel like you are back a square one. Yes, scripture teaches this is common. Rather than use all your energy to keep resisting the problem, how about using the "problem" as another stepping stone on the journey toward healing and transformation some things won't change, but you will.
2 Corinthians 12 Paul's thorny problem. Pod 177
2023-06-0525 minCeltic PreacherThe Last Thing You Need Is More Information About GodInformation is reasonable and necessary when we start off learning about God. Still, before too long, we can become very good at gathering information without putting much of it into practice. Growth, inner change, and transformation occur when our behavior changes; we need to access the Holy Spirit for any lasting change; otherwise, we keep doing the same things repeatedly. The Spirit is like the bridge between our head knowledge and our actual everyday living. Text Acts 2. Pentecost Pod 176
2023-05-2830 minCeltic PreacherElusive JoyWhen life is unsettled, and we are waiting for things to change, most of us would not say we are living in joy. The whole experience of joy is often elusive. We manage, cope, and produce, but joy is something else. The first students of Jesus were marked by joy, which leads me to believe their focus was not on their present circumstances. Life lessons from the first followers of The Way. Pod 175 Text Acts 1:1-11 and Luke 24:44-53 Ascension.
2023-05-2225 minCeltic PreacherWhere Do I Fit In And Belong?Place, purpose, and belonging are basic needs of every person. Everyone wants to know their place; why am I here? How should I spend my life? Everyone wants to know their purpose and, of equal importance, have a sense of belonging. If anyone one of these needs is missing, we feel unsettled and out of sorts. In his letter to his congregation, Peter wants them (and us) to know God has all these needs covered. You have to look in the right place. Text 1 Peter 2 Pod 174
2023-05-1425 minCeltic PreacherSecond Guessing Decisions And Not Knowing What To DoWhy is it so hard for us to know what to do? Jesus said you can receive direction and wisdom from God, but listening takes practice. God leads only one Way, and once you know the Way, it gets far easier to recognize what is not God’s leading. Text is John 10 1-10 Pod 173
2023-04-3023 minCeltic PreacherCharcoal Fires And Triggers Of Various KindsIt's when we are under high stress our weaknesses show. It's under increased pressure when God meets us in powerful ways to free and heal us so we become stronger through what we call "our failures." Text John 21:15-20
2023-04-2319 minCeltic PreacherThe Gap Between Our Expectations And Our RealityFollowing Jesus' resurrection, life does not return to life as usual for Jesus' students. Much like us, the first followers of Jesus had to learn how to pick up the pieces when their hopes and dreams were shattered. The text is The Walk To Emmaus—Gospel of Luke 23. Podcast 171
2023-04-1725 minCeltic PreacherCourageous LivingJesus didn't just teach about courageous living. He modeled it. He didn't avoid the difficult things to say or do and expected us to do the same. Avoidance holds us back and keeps us trapped. Face the difficult thing, and I will be with you, He promised. The text is Matthew 21:1-11. Palm Sunday Pod 170
2023-04-0224 minCeltic PreacherDreams and Visions - We Should Not Be Surprised By The Lengths God Goes To Get Our AttentionGod uses dreams, visions, friends, coincidence, circumstances, music, scripture, and a hundred other things to communicate with us. The ancient people were familiar with God using visions and dreams to speak to them. Today we will look at Ezekiel's vision of The Valley of the Dry Bones and hear a timeless promise we all need to hold onto, especially when we find ourselves in a place or position we would rather not be. Pod 169
2023-03-2626 minCeltic PreacherWe Can’t Rush Spiritual/Emotional GrowthWe Can't Rush Spiritual Growth.
Understanding ourselves and God's work in our world is a lifetime endeavor. We will go through times of questioning, and the answers will not be forthcoming. Rather than ask why something is happening, Jesus teaches us to ask, "Where can I see God work in this situation?" Insight is needed to bring new clarity to everyday conflicts and dilemmas. The text is the Gospel of John Chapter 9. The Healing of the Blind Man. Pod 168
2023-03-1920 minCeltic PreacherLearning From The Things We AvoidIt's helpful to recognize our personal biases. Jesus never used such language, but he constantly models the need to go toward people, conflict, or suffering we would rather avoid. He dragged his reluctant students more than once into uncomfortable situations where they felt pretty out of their depth. It's during times when we lack confidence clarity is found. The text is John 4, The Women At The Well Pod 167
2023-03-1227 minCeltic PreacherWhen Our Questions Go UnansweredIt doesn't seem fair that you can do all the right things and still be left wanting. You can't entirely secure what you think you need and want. Jesus taught that trying to do the right thing isn't the primary thing. Developing a trusting relationship with God is the first concern. Trust is the foundation for transformation and inner change, and God oversees that life project. Nicodemus tried to live a good life; he wasn't a bad person but was still unsatisfied. Like, Nico, we can spend a lot trying to do the right thing and be a good...2023-03-0519 minCeltic PreacherHave We Trials And Temptations. (as the old hymn goes)Yes, we will be tempted because we are human. Even Jesus was tempted. Being tempted isn't always an enticement to do something wrong it could just as easily be avoidance, denial, minimizing, withdrawing, or procrastinating. Subtler forms of temptation are equally effective in breaking relationships, causing us to doubt God and giving us much inner turmoil. The text is Matthew 4. Which covers Jesus' response when being tempted. Pod 165
2023-02-2622 minCeltic PreacherWhen Fear Of Loss Gets In The Way Of ListeningOne of the main struggles Jesus' disciples (and us) have is fear stops us from living the way God desires us to live. Fear of loss, change, health, dreams, death, and countless other things are familiar to us. Fear has a debilitating effect. Jesus addresses this in today's teaching. Matthew 16 The Transfiguration POD 164
2023-02-1927 minCeltic PreacherWhen You Are Angry-Dealing With Anger In RelationshipsSince Jesus spoke a lot about relationships, he had to cover the topic of anger. We cannot live in this world without getting angry, nor would we want to, but there is a particular anger that is destructive to ourselves and others. We get stuck carrying anger when we excuse ourselves, deny it, or are unaware of our offense. Today we cover Jesus' wisdom on anger and what to do with it. Sermon on the Mount Part 3. Matthew 5:21-26 Pod 163
2023-02-1227 minCeltic PreacherKnowing What You Want And Why You Want it- What Motivates us in relationshipsChange must first happen within us before we can expect improvement in a troubled or complex relationship. Jesus taught extensively about preserving and protecting relationships. A beginning point is to check our motives. Pausing and taking inventory of why we decide on a particular action can redirect us and give us deeper insight into how to help rather than hinder a situation—part 2 of the Sermon on the Mount. Matthew 5 Blessed are the Pure in Heart. Pod 162
2023-02-0526 minCeltic PreacherPeace in Anxious Times- Bringing Peace to Troubled RelationshipsPeace is something we all want. No one likes to be stressed, anxious, and overwhelmed with life. Jesus taught us a lot about our inner peace and our capacity to bring peace to those around us. Peace is certainly not something that drops from the sky. To be at peace with ourselves, other people, and our circumstances take intentional living. The text is, Blessed are the Peacemakers, from Matthew 5, The Sermon on the Mount Part 1. Pod 161
2023-01-3026 minCeltic PreacherI’d Follow You If I knew Where To Go?Following Christ isn't about going anywhere; it's more about being or becoming the person God created you to be. Whatever situation we find ourselves in today, good, bad, challenging, miserable, or happy, the call is always the same. Model yourself after me. Let us look at this day, this situation, your life, as I would, Jesus said. That's following me. The text is Matthew 4. Pod 160
2023-01-2228 minCeltic PreacherRunning On Empty?Did Jesus get tired, hungry, or sad? Did he go through the assault of feelings we go through each day? Yes, the Scriptures teach us; however, unlike us, Jesus was very good at knowing how to replenish his energy. He taught that we could learn to do the same, but first, we need to know more about the Holy Spirit. John 1:29-42. Pod 159
2023-01-1518 minCeltic PreacherYou Will Get What You Need When You Need It.One theme that runs throughout the entire scripture is the promise of provision. It's the promise that God can be trusted and will not let you down. You will get what you need. The caveat is that the help does not come in advance, so an element of trust is involved. When we find ourselves in a place of unmet need, could it be that our timing is not the same as God's? The text is Matthew 2. The Magi Podcast 158
2023-01-0922 min
A Happy Head PodcastSeason 1 Episode 23 Glenda Hoon RussellToday's guest on the Happy Head Podcast is Glenda Hoon Russell.Glenda Hoon Russell is a serial entrepreneur, speaker, writer, and transformational coach. Since the ripe age of ten, she has operated businesses such as designing and selling jewelry at craft shows to an international digital graphic and website design firm to a soon-to-be-published author of The Status Foe book.After losing both of her parents in her early 30's, Glenda's world was flipped upside down.Grief, depression, anxiety took over, and she found herself in a downward spiral of escaping through alcohol...2021-02-2452 min
Glenda. Art. Creativity.Remembering Nancy WilsonNancy Wilson2018-12-1701 min
Glenda. Art. Creativity.Remembering Nancy WilsonNancy Wilson --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/glenda-thomas-artist/support2018-12-1701 min