It’s going to storm today. It’s coming fast. I like the rain; I like the thunder; I like the wind; I like everything about a storm. My prayer is that no one will be hurt or suffer damage, but I still enjoy the storm. A storm can be weak or strong. What I enjoy is that a storm can bring a rush and a calm at the same time. The noise of rain can be overwhelming and relaxing at the same time. Watching the clouds move at the speed of a jet liner through the sky is a wonder to behold.

David understood the power of a storm. He wrote, “The voice of the LORD is upon the waters: the God of glory thunders.” The storm made David think of the voice, power, and glory of God. In Job, Elihu describes God’s voice as thunder and speaks of His lightning reaching across the heavens. Nahum says that God has His way in the storm.

The feel and smell of rain can be a reminder of the refreshing that comes from God in the storm. If you’re trying to find more quiet time with God, try it during a storm. Open the Bible or pray with your eyes open.

Stop, watch, feel, listen, and be reminded of how small we are and how great our Father’s creation is.

Some places shape us.

Some are beautiful sanctuaries.

Some are crowded so-called retreats.

Some are mission fields far from home. (Life Changing)

But some of the most important places are simply ordinary.

An old chair.

A front porch before sunrise, or a little after.

A kitchen table with an open Bible.

A country road where no one else is around.

I’ve noticed something over the years.

The moments that changed me most didn’t happen when life was loud.

They happened when life became quiet enough for me to pay attention.

We live in a world that constantly asks for our attention. (The ADHD Generation)

Our phones buzz, ding, and even sing.

Our calendars fill.

Our minds race from one responsibility to another.

Even good things can slowly crowd out the One who matters most. (Jesus)

Sometimes we tell ourselves that we’ll spend time with God when life slows or settles down.

But life never settles down on its own.

We have to choose the quiet.

Not because silence has some special superpower, but because it helps us hear what has been there all along.

Jesus often withdrew to lonely places to pray.

Not because He was trying to escape people, but because He wanted to remain close to His Father.

If the Son of God needed quiet places, perhaps we do too.

This week, don’t try to overhaul your entire schedule.

Choose one small moment.

Leave your phone inside.

Take your Bible.

Sit somewhere still.

Read slowly. (1-2 chapters repetitively through the week) (A Gospel)

Pray honestly.

Listen carefully.

You may discover that God wasn’t absent.

You were just moving too fast to notice.

J.I. Packer said, “Live slowly enough to think deeply about God!

I say, “Live slowly enough to hear God clearly.”

There is something I’ve been working on for many months that grows out of this very idea. I’ll share more about it in the coming weeks. For now, I hope this simple challenge helps you rediscover the joy of meeting with God in the quiet.

Question for you:

Where is your quiet place?

There are some trips that leave you with beautiful pictures. Others leave you with a deeper appreciation for what God is doing around the world.

Our recent visit to Uruguay did both.

Uruguay is often called “The Switzerland of South America.” The nickname comes from its long history of political stability, strong democratic traditions, and high quality of life. Riding through Montevideo, it wasn’t difficult to understand why. The city was clean, beautiful, and inviting. The streets, parks, and waterfront are full of people enjoying life together, even in the cold. Markets buzzed with activity, families strolled together, and conversations seemed to happen everywhere.

I travelled with my friend, coworker in the Kingdom, and brother in Christ, Blake. One thing that stood out to us was the warmth of the people. They had an Italian vibe, in charge and yet humble. In Uruguay, it’s customary to greet one another with a kiss on the cheek. While this was different for us, it quickly became clear that this simple gesture reflected a culture that values people and relationships. Even as they welcomed us according to their customs, they were thoughtful and respectful of our boundaries. Their kindness made us feel at home from the moment we arrived.

The fellowship throughout the week was unforgettable. The church we visited, led by a faithful family, was charming and full of life. We shared wonderful meals around tables filled with laughter, encouragement, and conversations about ministry and following Christ. Food has a way of bringing people together, but what united us most was our shared desire to know Jesus more deeply in His Word.

Our purpose for visiting Uruguay was to teach the Simple Discipleship Method. While every group is different, one common thread emerges wherever we go: people want to know how to genuinely walk with Jesus day by day. They’re not looking for another program or a new ministry trend. They ask sincere questions about growing in Christ, growing in His Word, and making disciples in groups.

That hunger is always encouraging.

Even more encouraging was seeing the leaders. I sensed they are ready—not merely for another conference or another curriculum—but for a genuine movement of the Holy Spirit. They understand that real transformation cannot be manufactured. It is God’s work. Our responsibility is to remain faithful to Christ, obedient to His Word, and available for His Spirit to work through ordinary believers.

One moment that continually stood out to me was watching the groups gather. There was an expectancy, a longing in the room. People weren’t simply attending another meeting. They understood that they were gathering to meet with God Himself. That kind of expectation changes everything. Worship becomes more than music. Bible study becomes more than information. Fellowship becomes more than conversation. When God’s people gather expecting His presence, hearts become ready to hear and obey.

Scripture reminds us:

“Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you.” — James 4:8

This verse is not a promise that God is distant until we earn His attention. No, it reminds us that God delights in fellowship with His children. As we seek Him with humble hearts, we get to experience His presence in fresh and transforming ways. That is exactly what I witnessed in Uruguay. There was a deep desire to draw near to Christ.

Simple discipleship is not about doing less because less is easier. It is about returning to what Jesus intended from the beginning….walking closely with Him and helping others do the same.

As we boarded our flight home, I found myself thanking God for the privilege of serving alongside believers so far from home who have become brothers and sisters in Christ. We may be separated by language, customs, and geography, but we share the same Savior, the same mission, and the same hope.

Please continue to pray for the churches and leaders in Uruguay. Pray that their hunger for Christ would continue to deepen. And pray that God would use ordinary believers across Uruguay to spark a movement (a bunch of people making moves) centered on Jesus.

The world does not need more complicated strategies.

It needs more people who simply walk with Jesus.

Pray for our DCA Students as they prepare for our first-ever School Mission Trip with our Ambassador Program. Ecuador, here we come!

To support, click here

Shh. I have a book coming out in November/December that I pray will help people walk closely with Jesus: “The Quiet Way”…more coming soon.

“I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the growth.” — 1 Corinthians 3:6

Over the past several months, God has opened doors for Bible Outposts and Simple Discipleship to share a simple message in multiple nations. We have been blessed to spend time in Ecuador, Guatemala, Brazil, Colombia, and London, meeting pastors, church leaders, educators, and believers who share a common desire—to see people engage deeply with God’s Word and grow as disciples of Jesus Christ.

Wherever we traveled, the message remained the same:

Read. Listen. Share.

Read God’s Word consistently.
Listen to the Holy Spirit.
Share what God is teaching you with others.

This simple approach continues to change lives. We’ve seen people discover a renewed hunger for Scripture, experience deeper fellowship, and begin discipling others in natural, reproducible ways. As we often say at Simple Discipleship, this is not about creating another program—it’s about helping people encounter God through His Word and community.

One verse that continues to encourage us is:

“You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.” — Jeremiah 29:13

Across every country we visited, we witnessed people seeking God with sincere hearts. We heard stories of spiritual growth, families engaging Scripture together, and new groups beginning to meet around the simple practice of reading, listening, and sharing.

We want to express our heartfelt gratitude to Juan Carlos Bixul, Fred Garmon, and Luis B. for their tremendous support, encouragement, and planning efforts. Much of what was accomplished on these trips would not have been possible without their servant leadership and commitment to the mission. Their partnership has been a tremendous blessing.

We are also thankful for Blake Sutton and Danny Bell, who joined us on portions of these journeys. Their friendship, ministry, and willingness to serve strengthened the work and encouraged many people along the way. Traveling together reminded us once again that ministry is most effective when we serve side by side.

As we look ahead, we are preparing for another exciting school year at Desoto Christian Academy. We are praying for students, families, faculty, and staff as we continue our mission of helping young people grow academically, spiritually, and personally. We believe the next generation is not merely the future of the Church—they are an important part of God’s work today.

Looking forward, we are especially excited about the development of The Ambassador Program. This initiative will provide students with opportunities to participate in international mission experiences, exposing them to God’s work around the world while helping them develop a heart for discipleship, leadership, and service. More details will be shared in the coming months, but we believe these experiences will have a lasting impact on the lives of students and the communities they serve.

Thank you to everyone who prays, gives, encourages, and partners with Bible Outposts and Simple Discipleship. Your support allows us to continue sharing a simple, reproducible pathway to spiritual growth with people around the world.

Please continue praying that God would raise up more disciple-makers and that many would discover the life-changing power of His Word.

Together, we will continue to Read. Listen. Share.

To learn more about Simple Discipleship, visit www.simplediscipleship.org.

“The word of God is living and active...” — Hebrews 4:12

Isaiah 1 is unsettling because it exposes something religious people often try to hide: outward devotion can exist alongside inward corruption. We see it in the headlines daily.

In Isaiah, God speaks to His people with grief in His voice. They were still offering sacrifices, keeping feasts, observing rituals, and saying the right words. But their hearts were far from Him. They oppressed the weak, ignored justice, and carried hidden sin while maintaining public religion.

The frightening thing is not that they abandoned religion.
It is that they kept practicing it without transformation.

Religion without transformation is damaging.
Sacrifice without surrender is empty.
Ritual without righteousness grieves the heart of God.

Through Isaiah, God says:

“Wash yourselves; make yourselves clean.” (Isaiah 1:16)

But here is the problem every honest sinner discovers eventually: we cannot truly cleanse ourselves.

We can modify behavior for a while.
We can manage appearances.
We can perform spirituality.
But we cannot remove guilt from the soul.

And that is exactly why Jesus came.

Where Isaiah says, “Cleanse yourself,” Jesus says, “I will cleanse you.”

John writes:

“Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” (John 1:29)

Hebrews 9 tells us that the blood of bulls and goats could never fully cleanse the conscience. Those sacrifices pointed forward to Jesus, the true and better sacrifice. And Hebrews 10 says:

“For by one offering He has perfected forever those who are being sanctified.” (Hebrews 10:14)

That changes everything.

Jesus did not come merely to improve religious people.
He came to rescue broken sinners.

Outward religion, inward corruption, and performance-based hierarchy have wounded God’s church for generations. Many people have sat quietly in pews carrying shame, addiction, pride, anger, secret sin, bitterness, or exhaustion while pretending everything was fine because they knew the language of church culture.

I know that struggle personally.

Years ago, I went through a season where I became more concerned with appearing faithful than actually walking closely with Jesus. I knew how to teach truth, explain doctrine, and maintain spiritual routines, but privately my heart was dry and tired. I think we all still battle this urge. One night, after everyone else was asleep, I sat alone and finally stopped defending myself before God. I remember praying something simple:

“Lord, I cannot fix me.” “Fix me, please!”

That was the beginning of healing, and He is still working on me.

Not because I discovered some new “thing”, but because I finally surrendered.

The mercy of God met me there.

And that is the beautiful invitation of Isaiah 1. After exposing sin, God does not close the door. He says:

“Come now, let us reason together… though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow.” (Isaiah 1:18)

What astonishing mercy.

God sees the full depth of our sin and still invites us near.

C.S. Lewis once wrote:

“Though our feelings come and go, God’s love for us does not.”

That is hope for tired sinners.

So the question is not merely: Do I practice religion?
The deeper question is:

• Is my faith genuine? Am I being real with God and myself?

• Do I obey God in secret?

• Do I love what is right?

• Am I becoming more compassionate?

• Do I love Jesus Himself, or only the appearance of spirituality?

Because true religion is not polished performance.

James says true religion cares for widows and orphans and keeps itself unstained from the world. True faith produces justice, mercy, humility, repentance, and love. It does not merely sing songs; it surrenders the heart.

And the good news is this:

God can cleanse any sin.

Not some sins.
Not respectable sins only.
Any sin.

The cross of Christ is sufficient for the proud, the addicted, the immoral, the hypocrite, the angry, the fearful, the self-righteous, and the deeply ashamed.

All of us come the same way:

Broken people trusting Jesus.

And maybe that is where real transformation finally begins.

Cotopaxi, in Ecuador, is enormous. It took my breath. Its slopes and snow-capped tip dominate the landscape; it’s impossible to ignore. Majestic. But its true power isn’t in what you see. Beneath the surface lies a deep, hidden force. It’s molten, pressurized, and alive. What appears still and silent (and it was so quiet) above is sustained by something unseen below. In the same way, the human heart may look steady on the outside, but the real strength…or danger comes from what’s being formed beneath the surface.

Two brothers grew up in the same abusive home. Same parents. Same chaos. Same wounds. One grew up hardened; he was angry, distant, closed off, a drug addict. The other grew up to be a compassionate father; he was gentle, aware, deeply anchored. When asked how they got to where they were, they both said, “With a father like mine, what do you expect?”

Same seed. Different soil.

Jesus told a story like that in the parable of the Sower. The seed, the Word of God, was the same every time. But the outcomes were radically different because of the condition of the soil. Some hearts were hard, some shallow, some crowded, and some ready. The miracle wasn’t in the seed changing. The wonder-working power was in the soil being cultivated.

The human heart is not neutral ground. It is dynamic, living, and formable. Scripture says in Proverbs 4:23, “Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life.” That’s not poetic exaggeration…it’s reality. Everything flows from the heart: our decisions, reactions, relationships, and ultimately, our direction.

I very much dislike the phrase, “the heart wants what the heart wants.” That phrase sounds freeing, but it’s dangerous. An uncultivated heart doesn’t “want” rightly. A broken, twisted, or hardened heart doesn’t lead to life; it leads to death and destruction. The heart must be formed through (discipline) discipleship.

I know this personally.

There was a season in my life when my heart was congested (and sometimes still is). It was full of noise, pressure, expectations, and quiet bitterness I didn’t even know how to name. From the outside, things may look fine, but internally, we all tend to fall apart sometimes. During these seasons, my posture changes. My face carries it. My reactions reveal it. You can’t hide the condition of your heart. It leaks out in your tone, your body language, your decisions, and your relationships.

Psychology even backs this up. Studies show that chronic stress and unresolved emotional wounds affect not just mental health, but physical expression, such as facial tension, posture, and even how we interpret others’ intentions. Research also shows that intentional practices like reflection, gratitude, and spiritual engagement significantly improve emotional regulation and overall well-being. In other words, what we cultivate internally becomes visible externally. (Citations available upon request)

Jesus described hearts that are so hard that truth can’t penetrate them. Hearts that are shallow respond quickly but have no root, so they crumble under pressure. Hearts that are crowded due to being choked by worries, wealth, and distractions. And then there are cultivated hearts. These are soft, deep, and clear, where the seed produces thirty, sixty, or even a hundredfold.

That cultivation doesn’t happen by accident.

Think about the Chinese bamboo tree. For years after planting, nothing seems to happen above ground. You water it, tend it, and wait… and still nothing visible. But beneath the surface, roots are forming deep, wide, and strong. Then suddenly, in a short period, it shoots up dramatically. They can grow as tall as 50ft. The growth wasn’t sudden; it was prepared.

That’s how God often works in the heart.

There are seasons where it feels like nothing is happening. No visible change. No breakthrough. But beneath the surface, God is doing root work if we’re willing to cultivate the soil.

So how do we cultivate the heart?

First, we guard it. That means being intentional about what we allow in. The voices, influences, and patterns of thought can change us slowly over time. A neglected heart becomes hard or cluttered.

Second, we prepare it. Just like soil needs to be broken up, so does the heart. That often happens through humility, repentance, and honest reflection. Brokenness, when brought to God, becomes fertile ground.

Third, we feed it. The primary way we cultivate the heart is through the Word of God and communication (Prayer) with Him. Scripture isn’t just information; it is the seed. Prayer isn’t just talking; it’s alignment with Christ. Together, these two things soften, deepen, and clear the soil.

And finally, we trust the unseen work. Roots take time. Transformation isn’t always visible at first. But if the soil is right, growth is inevitable.

The two brothers started with the same seed. The difference wasn’t what they were given; it was what was cultivated.

The same is true for us.

Our hearts can be broken, twisted, hardened, or congested, but they can also be healed, softened, and made ready. And when they are, the wonder-working power of God moves through them in ways that change everything.

Because in the end, the condition of the heart doesn’t just shape a life, it gives us Life!

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(More Pics Below) Recently, the Simple Discipleship team had the privilege of visiting Hermosillo, Mexico, and it’s hard to put into words all that God did during our time there. From the very first moments, we were welcomed with warmth, generosity, and joy—the kind of hospitality that leaves a mark on your heart.

Our trip centered on sharing the plan of growth and Bible engagement that defines Simple Discipleship. We were honored to join Leader Labs with Fred Garmon, partnering together to equip leaders who are deeply hungry to know God and help others follow Jesus. During our sessions, we focused on simple but life-changing rhythms:

• How to read the Word faithfully and consistently

• How to listen to the leading of the Holy Spirit

• How to gather in small groups for meaningful discipleship

These weren’t just teachings—they were conversations, prayers, and shared moments of discovery as we opened Scripture together. Watching leaders lean in, ask questions, and apply these practices reminded us why simplicity matters. Discipleship doesn’t have to be complicated to be powerful.

Hermosillo itself is a beautiful city, filled with kind and welcoming people. Time and again, we’re reminded that every visit to Central or South America leaves us blessed by the spirit of joy found there. The hospitality is unmatched, and the love for Christ is unmistakable.

One of the highlights of our trip was visiting the Atkinson Institute, where the next generation of leaders is being trained and equipped. Seeing their commitment to Scripture, ministry, and faithful leadership gave us great hope for what God is doing—and what He is preparing to do—in this region.

We were also deeply moved by the opportunity to join the local church in a homeless ministry, serving meals on a Saturday morning. Many of those we met had jobs but no place to sleep. What stood out most was not despair, but humility and spiritual awareness. So many expressed a clear sense of their need for Jesus. Their hearts, attitudes, and gratitude were a powerful testimony of faith in the midst of hardship.

The worship throughout the trip was incredible. The teaching was rich. And yes—the food was excellent too. But more than anything, it was the shared pursuit of Jesus that unified us across cultures and languages.

As we reflect on this trip, we can’t help but dream about the future. We hope one day to bring students from Desoto Christian Academy to Hermosillo so they can see firsthand the work God is doing and be shaped by a global vision for discipleship. We are prayerfully considering what a missions program at DCA could look like, trusting God to guide each step.

Thank you for walking with us, supporting the mission of Desoto Christian Academy and Simple Discipleship, and for praying alongside us. Please continue to pray—for the leaders in Hermosillo, for the work being done, and for wisdom as we seek to disciple simply, faithfully, and globally.

God is moving—and we’re grateful to be part of what He’s doing!

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I’d tell you my New Year’s resolutions, but I honestly can’t remember where I put the list. Yesterday, I walked into the kitchen with a very specific purpose, stood in front of the fridge for three minutes, and eventually realized I was just staring at a magnetic cut out of Ecuador. If our brains were web browsers, mine would have 38 tabs open, 6 are frozen, and I have no idea where that crazy music is coming from.

We are a forgetful people. We forget why we walked into rooms, we forget where we parked, we forget where we’ve been, and—more importantly—we forget the faithfulness of God the moment we face new challenges.

The Squirrel Dilemma

Being forgetful is a bit like being a squirrel. I watched one in the woods recently. He had an acorn. A glorious, prize-winning acorn. He started digging a hole with high-intensity focus, but then a leaf blew a few inches to the left. He froze. He looked at the leaf. He looked at the sky. He did a little twirl, forgot about the acorn entirely, and sprinted up a tree to yell at a bird. I strangely identify with him on a mental level.

We do that with our spiritual lives. God provides a blessing, a breakthrough, a moment of peace and two days into January, a “leaf” blows by (usually in the form of a bill or a bad day), and we’ve completely forgotten that God just parted a whole sea for us. Jericho should be a cinch but we lose focus.

Remembering Whose You Are

In the book of Joshua, the Israelites were standing at the edge of the Promised Land. They had just crossed the Jordan River on dry ground—another massive miracle. But God knew their “squirrel-mentality” tendencies.

First, Joshua told them to pick up twelve stones from the middle of the riverbed and set them up as a monument of remembrance. It was a visual “hey you, remember this!” so that when their kids asked about the pile of rocks, they could tell the story of God’s miracle power.

But God took it a step further. Before they took the land, He had them perform circumcision. Now, that’s a heavy price for a “reminder,” but it served an important purpose. “The stones were to be placed to help them to remember what God had done, but the circumcision was to help them remember who they were and who they belonged to.” Wink* Thanks Max Lucado for this reminder.

One was an external sign; the other was an internal, physical mark. We need both. We need the “stones” (the journals, the gratitudes, the stories) to track God’s hand, and we need the “mark” (the surrender of our hearts) to remind us that we aren’t our own and that we’ve been bought with a heavy price, namely, the blood of Christ.

Look Forward

As we step into this new year, don’t just focus on what you want to do. Focus on what God has already done. We just watched “The Chronicles of Narnia” yesterday. At the end of the series Reepicheep heads over the wave to Aslan’s country. It served as a reminder that better days are ahead. C.S. Lewis once wisely said:

“There are far, far better things ahead than any we leave behind.”

The “better things” aren’t necessarily easier circumstances; they are deeper realizations of God’s presence. That realization is found in His Word, in prayer and in remembering His victories in our lives. This year, let’s try to be a little less like the distracted squirrel and a little more like Joshua—building monuments of praise in our hearts so we don’t forget the One who brought us across the river and to the promised land!

Stack some stones in 2026!

I recently returned from a trip to Bogotá, Colombia, where I had the privilege of traveling with friends to teach the Simple Discipleship method of Bible study to a group of emerging pastors and church planters. From the very beginning, I knew it was going to be a special trip.

Bogotá, like any major city, is known around the world for many things—some positive, and, unfortunately, some negative. However, the people we met there were nothing short of amazing. They were kind, welcoming, and deeply concerned about how to train the next generation of Jesus followers.

The Power of Knowing Christ

God has sent us on this global campaign to share a simple, powerful truth: Reading the Bible daily, learning to listen to the Holy Spirit, and gathering with others to share what God teaches us is the best way—the only way—to grow in our faith.

We may say we know Christ, but do we know what He said? Do we know what He desires? Do we know what He longs for us to accomplish? When we truly line our lives up with His Word, the things we could accomplish are innumerable! The leaders we are connecting with in these countries are remarkably passionate about this message.

Global Footprint 🗺️

As of today, our ministry is actively working across the globe, including:

• South and Central America: Guatemala, Colombia, Venezuela, and Ecuador.

• International: Africa and Europe.

• The United States: Several states across the nation.

We have plans to visit Mexico in January. Please pray that God will go before us and prepare the hearts of those who need to hear about the importance of getting to know Christ through His Word.

We have witnessed some of the most unbelievable things, seen some of the most beautiful places, and met some of the most wonderful people. This is just the beginning—God is at work all over the world, and He can certainly work in your heart, too. He has a plan for the nations, but He also has a plan for you. His plan for you is to daily get to Him through His Word!

A Lesson in Humility from the Pit Stop

It takes a certain amount of humility to commit to reading God’s Word; we need the Holy Spirit to guide us. This need for humble acceptance of help reminds me of a story about a group of world-class cardiac surgeons.

In the 1990s, this specialized team of pediatric cardiac surgeons was facing a terrible problem: children were dying at an very high rate after successful surgeries, specifically in the move from the operating room (OR) to the step-down rooms. Something was happening, and it was unexplainable. They spent a great deal of money and time on research, trying to solve the problem.

After much frustration, the surgeons were sitting in the hospital break room, watching a Formula One race, specifically the Ferrari team. They observed the pit crew: a team of multiple guys who would attack the car, and in three to five seconds, everything would be done with precision.

In a bold move, they went to the hospital administration and asked if they could bring the Ferrari pit crew to observe their operating rooms and procedures. Though the administration initially thought it was the worst idea they’d ever heard, they eventually relented.

The Ferrari team came in and, after a very short time, concluded that the surgical team’s non-medical teamwork was the worst they had ever seen. No one was clearly in charge of order. The OR team was reaching over each other and yelling for instruments. The pit crew offered suggestions and helped develop strict protocols based on their observations.

To this day, the operating procedures developed by the Ferrari team and these surgeons are still standard operating procedures for ORs across the U.S.

It took a great deal of humility from these highly trained surgeons to admit that they could receive help from people whose expertise was pouring gas in a car. But they knew they needed the help. We need help as well.

The Message We Share

We all need more than just a sermon on Sunday. We need a personal walk with Christ that develops as we read His Word and get to know Him in prayer. This is the message of Simple Discipleship.

Please pray as we share this message with all our students at Desoto Christian Academy (DCA) and around the world.

To learn more about how we are integrating this into Christian education, please visit www.desotochristian.com.

To explore the method we are teaching to nations, please visit www.simplediscipleship.org.

There’s a simple little phrase that has been boosting my heart and my mornings lately: “I believe something wonderful is going to happen today.” Saying these words out loud when I wake, even before my feet hit the floor, has become an encouragement for my soul, setting a tone of hopeful expectation for the day ahead. And it’s all rooted in the deep joy we can all find in the Lord.

Joy is My Strength

The Bible tells us in Nehemiah 8:10, “The joy of the Lord is your strength.” What a truth! It’s not our own temporary happiness that keeps us going, but a supernatural, amazing joy that comes from our relationship with Him. This joy isn’t dependent on circumstances or situations. It’s a flowing spring that flows even during difficulties (as James 1 teaches), a quiet confidence that God is at work, always.

When I declare “I believe something wonderful is going to happen today,” it’s not a naive wish. I’m not naming it and claiming it. It’s a statement of faith, a recognition that God is good, and His mercies are new every morning (Lamentations 3:22-23). My statement is a rejection of cynicism and an embrace of the truth. One such truth is found in Romans 8:28, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”

Thanksgiving is in My Heart

Part of stirring up this joy is living with a heart full of thanksgiving. The Apostle Paul tells us in 1 Thessalonians 5:18, “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” It’s easy to be thankful when everything is going good, but true growth comes when we can find reasons to give thanks even when life throws curveballs.

When I say my morning declaration, my mind immediately begins to list the blessings I already have. And top among them are the incredible people God has placed in my life.

I am so incredibly thankful for my amazing wife. Her unending love, her strength, her wisdom, and her grace are daily blessings in my life. She is truly a gift from God, and every day with her is a wonderful day.

And our daughter, what a joy she is! Watching her grow into the beautiful, strong, and compassionate woman she’s become has been one of the greatest privileges of my wife and I’s life. Her laughter, her spirit, and her presence brings light into our lives.

And now, to see her find real joy and happiness with our new son-in-law, fills my heart with gratitude and joy. He is a wonderful addition to our family, a direct answer to prayer, and it’s a joy to witness the love and partnership they share. God truly does provide abundantly more than we could ever ask or think!

I Dwell with God

My declaration of joy also reminds me to dwell in God’s presence every day. Psalm 16:11 tells us, “You make known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand.” Our anticipation of wonderful things should be found in His presence.

It’s in His presence that we find peace that surpasses understanding (Philippians 4:7). It’s in His presence that we are reminded of His unfailing love (Psalm 36:5). And it’s in His presence that our hope is renewed, knowing that He has good plans for us, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future” (Jeremiah 29:11).

So today I encourage you to try it. Speak it aloud: Shout it! “I believe something wonderful is going to happen today.”See how it changes your perspective. Let the joy of the Lord be your strength, give thanks for all your blessings, and watch as God, in His infinite goodness, reveals the wonderful things He has in store.

What “wonderful” thing are you believing for today? Let me know below!

Fall is breaking, and there’s nothing like back-porch sitting on an early, sunny, fifty-something-degree morning! It’s the perfect time to put ourselves in that Psalm 46:10 position with open Bibles and the Holy Spirit as our guide. Oh… and coffee, of course. Because without Jesus and coffee, the world would be full of chaos and darkness!

Ms. Moneca and I feel like soldiers coming home from the battlefield after over thirty-three years of pastoring churches. It’s easy for us to understand how the exhausted prophet Elijah felt under the juniper tree. But then God fed that faithful preacher of righteousness so well that he was able to travel for forty days to Mount Horeb, where the still, small voice of God met him. And still today, the Holy Spirit is speaking to us through the Bible, prayer, and our circumstances.

So, are you disgusted, busted, and can’t be trusted? Here’s your friendly reminder to get with God before you get with people. Get still and chill. We all need a daily “Bible Revival” with the Comforter guiding us and bringing all things to our remembrance, as promised in John 14:26.

Like the young, up-and-coming prophet Samuel learned as a child, we must master the spiritual discipline of saying, “Speak Lord, for your servant is listening.” The busyness of life can wait until we do business with God. First John 2:20 and verse 27 even go so far as to say that we have an “unction” and an anointing from the Holy One abiding in us so that we have no need to be taught by man. This means that we are only receiving second-hand news when we depend on others to teach us without being like the Berean believers in Acts 17:11, searching the Scriptures for ourselves “to see if those things are so.”

And it’s so very “gospeliscious” when people who have spent time with God separately then come together corporately to share what they’ve learned in their own quiet times. There’s as much energy in the house as there would be if a ballistic missile plowed through a pile of marshmallows. It’s a Proverbs 27:17, iron-sharpening-iron extravaganza in exponential fashion!

Yes, God misses His time with us. He loves us that much! Get in your Bible early and often, because it’s impossible to be Spirit-filled without being Scripture-filled. Without taking a deep, daily dig in The Rock, you won’t be able to push back against the drain of the day and the distractions Satan uses. Just as God breathed life into the first Adam, so the Spirit of God will do for those who desire to meet with Him. His Spirit is speaking. Are we listening?

Scripture References:

• Psalm 46:10

• 1 Kings 19:11-13

• 1 Samuel 3:10

• 1 John 2:20 & 27

• Proverbs 27:17

• John 14:26

• Acts 17:11

I recently had the opportunity to take a trip to Ecuador, and it was one of those experiences that reaffirms just how big and amazing our God is. Our mission there was to connect with local businessmen and Pastors and share the passion we have here in the States: our Bible study method called Simple Discipleship.

They were so receptive and genuinely excited to hear what God has been doing in our own Bible study groups here and DCA. They loved hearing about our High School students. It was a clear confirmation that God truly blessed our time there. Not only did we get to witness the beauty of another place on God’s earth—a testament to His creativity—but we also saw the overwhelming beauty of His work in different cultures and people. God’s love and beauty truly extend way beyond anything we could ever imagine or think!

A Divided World United in Faith

While in Ecuador, we had the unique chance to stand on the equator itself, literally placing one foot in the Southern Hemisphere and the other in the Northern. It was a powerful reminder of a larger spiritual truth. Though divided in distance, we are united in Faith. We had such a great time with brothers who share a deep longing to grow in their faith in Christ. They listened intently to everything we shared and left motivated to start their own Bible study groups.

Everywhere I go, I find places that just captivate my heart. The mountains of Ecuador are breathtaking, and the capital, Quito, felt like a city nestled in the clouds.

A Moment on a Bench

One afternoon, I took a moment to just sit on a bench in front of the hotel. It was a quiet moment that turned into a God experience. As I watched busloads of people passing by, a sense of urgency washed over me. I was overwhelmed with the fact that many of them would meet God one day having known very little of Him here on earth. And tragically, some will hear the words, “I never knew you.”

The beauty of God’s creation is everywhere, yet it’s filled with people who overlook it daily. This moment reminded me of a vital lesson we all need to learn: We need to stop and listen to God.

Rewiring for Peace

It’s easy to get caught up in the chaos of life. Peace doesn’t feel peaceful when you’re pre-wired for chaos. That’s why we need to intentionally listen for His voice, even with all the noise.

The truth is, we need to come to Him to be rewired. We come to God not just for a change of eternal destiny, but for a fundamental change right here, right now—a change of heart, head, and hands:

• Heart: To know and receive His love and peace.

• Head: To understand and apply His truth from the Word. (Simple Discipleship)

• Hands: To actively live out our faith through simple acts of discipleship.

My trip to Ecuador wasn’t just about sharing a Bible study method; it was a powerful reminder that the need for God’s Word is universal. The enthusiasm of those men to start Simple Discipleship groups shows that people all over the world are hungry for a simple, effective way to draw closer to Christ.

What about you? Are you making time to stop, listen, and let God rewire you for His peace?

The Mountain We Were Never Meant to Climb!

I remember being young, standing at the base of a massive mountain. I was driving an area in Arkansas called “Boston Mountain.” It was terrifying to a young man with little driving experience. Little did I know that the mountain I was driving over would be an easy one. It was an entirely different mountain that almost broke me. It wasn’t made of rock and stone, but of drive, ambition, desire, and the lust of everything the world offered. It was the mountain of acceptance (I’ve always felt a need to be accepted), of success, of pleasure. And I was convinced that my purpose was to climb and conquer it. Every ounce of my being screamed, “Climb! Do whatever it takes to reach the top.” Find a system and manipulate it if necessary.

This is the struggle the Apostle John addresses in his first letter. We all feel that pull. In 1 John chapter 2, he lays out an uncomfortable truth: “Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him” (1 John 2:15).

Reading that can feel like a spiritual pile driver from Macho Man Randy Savage. I can have no love for the world? How do we live in the world but not love it? Can I love my oatmeal crème pies? It may be over for me then. It feels like an impossible balancing act. But John isn’t calling us to a life of chants on a mountain with a giant gong, but to a radical reorientation of our hearts. It’s not easy. We’re all a work in progress.

What is “The World”?

Before we can understand the command, we must understand the words. What does John mean by “the world” (in Greek, kosmos)? We must conclude from context and other scripture that he is not talking about God’s beautiful creation—the mountains, oceans, and people He so loves. John clarifies exactly what he means. This “world” is defined by a unholy trinity of its own:

1. The lust of the flesh: This is the craving for self gratification. It’s the drive to satisfy our physical appetites outside of God’s design. It’s the “if it feels good, do it” mentality that reduces us to be people driven by base impulses rather than by the Holy Spirit.

2. The lust of the eyes: This is the crazy desire to have what we see. It’s stoked by materialism, comparison, and envy. Envy is so dangerous. It’s the endless scrolling through social media (brain washing), coveting lifestyles of the rich and famous, possessions that make us feel more alive, and relationships that meet every narcissistic desire we have. It’s the belief that the next purchase, the next upgrade or encounter, will finally satisfy the longing in our inmost being. If I had a guitar like that, I could play like John Mayer. No sir. No, you couldn’t.

3. The pride of life: This is the swagger of Jagger or self-sufficiency. It’s the obsession with high status, reputation, and personal achievement. It’s the need to be seen, to be important, to build our own kingdom instead of God’s. It’s the core of the sin in the Garden—the desire to be “like God,” charting our own course, setting sail for personal achievement and having no regard for eternity.

This world is a mountain that promises a kingdom at its summit but ultimately leads to a cliff diving experience you do not want to have. It lands in hell. It’s all “passing away” (1 John 2:17). The question is how we transfer our love from something sinking to something eternal. A tough task indeed.

Actively Maturing Opens Our Eyes to Reality

The journey away from the love of the world is a process of maturing. John teaches this by addressing his readers in different stages of their faith:

• Little children: You are a child of God because your sins are forgiven. Your identity is secure. You know the Father. This is the moment of salvation. The thrill of waking up is like being born, it’s exhilarating and terrifying.

• Young men: You are strong. You have overcome the evil one because the Word of God abides in you. This is a time of battle, of constantly resisting the temptations of the world by standing on God’s truth. Many fail in this stage and pretend the rest of the way.

• Fathers: You have known Him who is from the beginning. This is the stage of deep, abiding contemplation of life. The allure of the world fades not because you’ve mastered a set of rules, but because you are so captivated by the beauty of God that the world’s trinkets lose their shine. His Word found root!

As we mature in Christ, we begin to open our eyes to a new reality. We see the world for what it is: a temporary mound of dirt, and our longing turns to the eternal home of God.

Anointing is the Compass that Guides us to Truth

So how do we climb this Telluride? We don’t do it alone.

“But you have an anointing from the Holy One, and all of you know the truth... the anointing that you received from him abides in you, and you have no need that anyone should teach you. But as his anointing teaches you about everything, and is true, and is no lie—just as it has taught you, abide in him.” (1 John 2:20, 27)

This “anointing” is the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. He is our guide, our counselor, our truth (and lie)-detector. When the world presents its lies packaged in glitter with all its false promises, the anointing within us creates a holy crankiness and uneasiness, a pause in our spirit. He is the one who leads us into all truth (John 16:13). He teaches us to discern between the voice of our flesh/world and the voice of our Father. God helps us to see the world’s mountain for the molehill it truly is.

Abiding is the only Hope We Have

Ultimately, the entire chapter points to the simple solution: Abide in Christ.

To abide means to remain, to dwell, to live in Him. It’s not a Sunday visit for supper (aww, I want some fried chicken) but a permanent place to crash when the world is loud and chaotic. When we abide in Christ, we are connected to the vine (John 15). We draw our life, our strength, our love, and our desires from Him.

Loving the world is the default setting of a heart disconnected from the Father. Salvation is the initial reboot. But as we abide in Jesus—through prayer, through His Word, through fellowship with His people—His love begins to fill us, heal us, and reorient us. The love of the Father replaces the love of the world. It’s not that we conquer the mountain; it’s that we turn our back on it because we’ve found a far greater Treasure, a far more glorious King, a far more satisfying Love.

We stop climbing and start abiding. The toil of the mountain will wear you out. Turn around. Turn to Jesus.

My wife loves breakfast. She enjoys the calm, the newness of the day, and the needed energy it provides. I love bacon and eggs, but my reading lately has me craving more.

There's a scene near the end of the Gospel of John (21) that has been on my mind, especially with everything going on in the world. It’s a quiet, post-resurrection moment that carries the weight of a new beginning.

The disciples are back to what they know best: fishing. Peter, the restless and unsure, says, "I'm going fishing," and the others follow. They fish all night and catch nothing, similar to my fishing trips. As dawn breaks, someone calls out from the shore. They don't recognize Him at first—maybe grief and confusion clouded their eyes, or perhaps the resurrected Jesus simply looked different. I lean towards the latter.

From the beach, He calls out with a familiar, almost casual tone, “Boys, have you any food?” (John 21:5, NKJV). It must have been the way a Father calls to his boys. After they admit their fishing failure, He gives a simple command: "Cast the net on the right side." They obey, and suddenly their net is full of 153 fish. In that moment of miraculous provision, John knows. "It is the Lord!"

What follows is pure Peter. He immediately throws on his outer garment, dives into the sea, and swims for shore, leaving everyone else to haul in the impossible catch. The one who has failed the most is the quickest to obey. On the beach, Jesus already has a charcoal fire going, cooking bread and fish. He feeds them. He serves them.

The Question That Matters Most

After they had eaten, the moment became personal. Jesus turns to the disciple who had denied Him three times (Peter) and asks a simple question three times: “Simon, son of Jonah, do you love Me?”

This is the question that cuts through all our failures, our doubts, and our confusion. It’s the question Jesus is still asking each of us today in the quiet moments of our own lives: Do you love Me?

And for every heartfelt "Yes, Lord; You know that I love You," Jesus gives a command: “Feed/Tend My sheep.”

This is where the encounter on the beach becomes our own. If we truly love Him, our love must have an outlet. We are called to feed others. But what is the food?

Food for Our Souls

The "feed" we are to give isn't of our own making. It’s the spiritual food that we ourselves must first consume. It’s the Word of God. We can't give what we haven't received. The Bible is clear that God's Word is our essential nourishment.

• It’s more necessary than physical food. When tempted in the wilderness, Jesus declared, “Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God” (Matthew 4:4). Our deepest hunger isn't for bread, but for truth.

• It’s a source of deep joy. The prophet Jeremiah understood this when he said, “Your words were found, and I ate them, and Your word was to me the joy and rejoicing of my heart” (Jeremiah 15:16). Consuming Scripture isn't a chore; it’s the source of our strength and gladness.

• It’s how we mature. The author of Hebrews challenges us to move beyond the basics, from "milk" to "solid food." He explains that “solid food belongs to those who are of full age, that is, those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil” (Hebrews 5:14). We grow by wrestling with the deep truths of God.

From a Full Heart, Love Overflows

When we have truly eaten—when we have been nourished and strengthened by the Word of God—we are finally equipped to obey the second part of Jesus’s command. Having been fed, we can go feed others. And the ultimate expression of this is love.

A heart filled with God's Word will naturally overflow with God's love. Did you hear that? Read it again if you will. It enables us to love the world not with our own emotions, but with a divine, enduring love.

• 1 John 4:7-8 (NKJV): “Beloved, let us love one another, for love is of God; and everyone who loves is born of God and knows God. He who does not love does not know God, for God is love.”

• John 13:34-35 (NIV): "A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another."

• Romans 5:8 (NKJV): “But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”

The encounter on the beach started with an empty net and ended with a full commission. It began with physical hunger and led to a call to provide spiritual food. Today, the resurrected Christ stands on the shore of our lives asking the same question: “Do you love Me?”

If your answer is yes, then your path is clear. Eat. Feast on His Word. Let it be the joy and rejoicing of your heart. And then, with a soul satisfied by Him, go and love the world. Eat your bacon and eggs, and then go Feed His sheep.

We’re finishing John this week in our Men’s Bible Study (Simple Discipleship). I will begin the book of John with our 7th-8th-grade boys at DCA. Pray that God would open hearts and create a hunger for His word in these awesome young men.

Thank you,

Andy

Last week, a friend and I had the privilege of traveling to Guatemala to share our passion for Bible Study with a group of 25 business leaders. From the moment we stepped off the plane in Guatemala City, we knew this place was different. The airport was a sea of balloons and welcoming smiles, as families greeted their loved ones with an outpouring of affection I hadn't witnessed since I was a child. It was a tangible feeling of community, a sense of belonging that wrapped around you like a warm hug.

Our host, an amazing missionary named Juan Carlos, arranged for us to stay in a beautiful hotel. The city's streets were a vibrant chaos, with motorcycles weaving through traffic like a colony of busy ants. But even amidst the bustle, there was a quiet dignity and a profound sense of respect among the people.

On Saturday morning, we made our way to a local restaurant for our meeting. As we began to speak, my friend and I shared simple methods for discipleship and Bible study—the importance of reading God's word, listening to the Holy Spirit, and gathering with others to learn and grow. More info, click here. We had asked them to read John chapter 18, and they arrived not just prepared, but completely overwhelmed by the passage. We witnessed rededications and recommitments to God's word, a powerful testament to their faith.

Guatemala is known as the "Land of Eternal Spring," and the natural beauty of the country is breathtaking. But what truly overwhelmed me was the joy of its people. We often hear stories of crime and hardship in Central America, but I found a nation filled with some of the happiest people I have ever met. They were quick to smile, ready to greet you, and eager to welcome us. It was a stark contrast to the often-jaded world I'm used to back home.

This experience reminded me of the powerful joy that comes from connecting with others, from sharing the love of Christ, and from the simple act of smiling. It's a reminder that even when life feels bleak, there is always something to be thankful for.

I am grateful for the missionaries who dedicate their lives to sharing hope, for the word of God that guides us, and most of all, for the bonds we form with our fellow travelers on this journey. These experiences shape who we are and remind us to find a reason to smile, even when things are difficult.

So, whatever you are going through today, I hope you find something that brings a smile to your face. And if you can't, maybe one of these pictures will help you find one.

Did I mention they have “ACTIVE” volcanoes?

Blessings to you and your family. Please keep “Desoto Christian Academy” in your prayers. God is doing amazing things this year.

Andy

In John 17:15, Jesus offers an amazing prayer just hours before his crucifixion: "I do not pray that You take them out of the world, but that You keep them from the evil one." This powerful prayer reveals Jesus's deep concern for his disciples' well-being as they prepared to carry on his work in a world filled with evil. He knew the challenges they would face; He knew that the "adversary prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour." Even King David, in the Old Testament, needed protection, praying that he would "fear no evil" because of the Lord's protective "rod and staff."

The Source of Evil's Authority

The existence of evil in the world today is undeniable. A question arises from the temptation of Christ, where the adversary claimed the authority to offer Jesus all the kingdoms of the world. How did he gain such power? It is widely understood that when Adam sinned, mankind, created in the image of God, suffered a profound loss. This loss of authority and connection to God opened the door for the enemy's influence. Jesus, who created the heavens and the earth for humanity, expressed his concern for his followers' safety from this very enemy in this prayer. He wanted them to be literally "kept from him," a desire that speaks to the need for protection from wrong decisions, traps, and the consequences of our own sin wrongdoing. These are pathways of the adversary.

Overcoming the Darkness

The evil of the world can often feel overwhelming, but God's plan for his followers is victory, not defeat. The Book of Revelation provides a clear pathway to overcoming the enemy. It reveals that before the final defeat of the adversary, mankind will have power over him. In Christ, we possess that power now. This power is not self-generated but comes from the "overcoming victorious Lamb of God who was worthy to open the scroll."

The Resources for Victory

Revelation 12:11 outlines the resources available to believers for overcoming the enemy:

• The Blood of the Lamb: This represents the atoning sacrifice of Jesus, which cleanses us from sin and gives us new life. It is the foundation of our victory.

• The Word of Their Testimony: Our testimony is a powerful tool God uses to reveal Himself to the world. Sharing our story of redemption and God's faithfulness makes His work visible and strengthens our own faith.

• A Mindset of Sacrifice: The phrase "they did not love their lives to the death" points to a willingness to surrender everything for Christ. It is a mindset of sacrifice, where we prioritize God's will above our own comfort and safety, knowing that true life is found in Him.

These three resources—the blood of Jesus, our personal testimony, and a sacrificial mindset—form the strategy for overcoming the enemy. They enable us to live a life of victory and fulfill Christ's purpose for us, even in a world overflooded with the evil one.

Peace and joy. Two beautiful words that often dance together, yet can feel out of reach in the face of life's challenges. But what happens when they truly collide? What does it mean to experience a deep-seated peace and an overflowing joy simultaneously, regardless of our circumstances? For believers in Christ, this isn't just a fleeting emotion; it's a foundational reality rooted in faith.

The Foundation of Unshakeable Peace and Joy

Peace and joy, in their truest form, stem from a profound belief that, no matter what we face today, we will be okay. We are ultimately secure in God's love and sovereignty. This understanding goes beyond temporary happiness and offers a steadfast anchor for our souls.

As it says in Romans 15:13 (NKJV): "Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit."

This scripture illustrates the connection between believing, joy, and peace, all powered by the Holy Spirit. It’s not about the absence of hardship, but the presence of God within us, providing an inner sanctuary of calm and delight.

From Childhood Chaos to Divine Connection

I remember a time in my childhood when the world felt overwhelming. Chaos seemed to reign, life presented constant challenges, and even a short distance from home would feel like I was a world away. As I grew older, my understanding expanded, the world seemed smaller, but the yearning for something more remained.

Then came the revelation of a God who exists outside the constraints of time, yet holds complete control over it. This same God knew me deeply and desired a personal relationship – to welcome me into His family. It was, and still is, an overwhelming truth.

Peace and Joy Amidst Pain

The reality of life is that pain, struggle, and heartache are inevitable. However, for those who trust in Christ, these difficulties do not remove the possibility of experiencing peace and joy. In fact, it is often in the midst of these very struggles that the depth of God's peace and the strength of His joy become clear.

Peace and joy are not reserved for special occasions. They are not found in a life without problems. They are not only to be associated with Christmas, they are meant for everyday life.

Found in a Person: Jesus

Ultimately, peace and joy are not found in circumstances, but in a Person – Jesus Christ. He is the source of our hope, the Prince of Peace, and the reason for our joy. Through faith in Him, we gain access to a peace that surpasses understanding (Philippians 4:7 NKJV: "and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.") and a joy that is complete (John 15:11 NKJV: "These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be full.").

When peace and joy collide in the heart of a believer, it’s a testament to the transformative power of a relationship with Jesus Christ. It's a quiet confidence during the storms, a real hope in the face of despair, and a deep assurance that, no matter what comes our way, we are held securely in the loving hands of our Savior.

God bless you this day!

I recently participated in a small group Bible study called The Jesus Quest, which was adopted and adapted by a missionary named Chuck Quinley. Chuck understood that following Jesus meant more than just learning about Jesus, reading about Jesus, or trying to understand how Jesus wants us to live. He understood that it took action. We need to do the things that Jesus said to do: accomplish the task of forgiveness, serve the poor, and love people genuinely by assisting them with our hands and our feet. The Jesus Quest opened my eyes to a new way of reading the Bible.

While I was attending the Jesus Quest Bible study, I was in my third year of a weekly Bible study with some local businessmen. After two and half years we began to define a way to study the Bible and tried to make it repeatable for others. We read the same two chapters of God's Word weekly and would allow the Holy Spirit to speak to our hearts and teach us the truth. Then, we would get together, and each man would have a few minutes to share what God had revealed to him. In this Bible study, we would talk about things like taking the mask off, never arguing, and loving people even when we disagreed. We’ve read much of the Bible together—multiple Old Testament and New Testament books.

I have been to seminary and learned a lot about the Bible. However, I’ve learned more in these three years than in all my seminary years combined.

Now mesh the Jesus Quest with this new, Simple Discipleship process that we were using at the bank, and you come up with what I believe is one of the greatest methods of studying and doing the Bible that I've ever seen in my entire life. I believe this is what Jesus meant when He told us that the Holy Spirit would come to us all, remind us of everything He said, and guide us in truth.

Jesus wants us to be growing and knowing Him personally. He wants us to be walking with Him and doing the things that He asked us to do. Jesus wants us to have a vibrant and powerful prayer life. When we study the Word repetitively and get together with others, God begins to work in our lives.

Now, everybody's heard of small group discipleship. Churches have been doing small groups for years and there is no doubt that God uses Pastors, teachers, and other leaders to make a significant impact on the world. However, many churches use curriculum written by men or women who have good intentions but are always putting their spin, their twist, and their theology into their manuscripts. What if we trusted the Holy Spirit to speak to the hearts of every believer? What if we taught them some simple ways of reading the Bible so that they could then listen, learn, and grow? What if "teaching" didn't mean helping people understand what God said but, rather, helping people walk with God and learn how to learn and hear from Him personally? It could be revolutionary for the church. It could be revolutionary for individual believers.

God is using this method in multiple states and 5 countries. He is blessing. Join us as we carry this Word worldwide. We charge no one for this training or material. All we ask is for you to do is help us spread the word. Go to www.simplediscipleship.org. Share with others.

So, let's break this down and jump in together. We use five simple steps. They are:

A. Read the Word Repetitively B. Listen to the Holy Spirit C. Gather in a Group D. Everyone Shares E. Remember Takeaways

More coming!

I remember being just a little guy, riding my bike all over town with a freedom that seems rare today. We had the best bikes! One dreary fall night, I found myself on the complete opposite side of town as darkness fell. It was cold, and our town had only a few streetlights on each long street. The world felt large and intimidating. All I had was my bike to get me home.

Staring into the dark stretch ahead, a knot of fear tightened in my stomach. The knot began to twist. I knew what I had to do. I pedaled as fast as my little legs could carry me, racing through the blackness until I reached the welcoming glow of the first streetlight. I stopped there, catching my breath under its safety. Then, calming myself, I looked into the next patch of darkness and made a break for the next light. I repeated this—racing from one pool of light to the next—until I finally rolled into my driveway, safe at home. I ran to door, busted through, into more light.

That feeling of fear, and the simple strategy to overcome it, has stayed with me. Life is often like that ride. We find ourselves in stretches of darkness—seasons of doubt, grief, or struggle. The temptation is to stop, to linger in the shadows where we feel hidden. But we cannot stay there.

A few things we know for sure:

We Are Children of the Light. As believers, our very nature has been changed. We are no longer defined by the darkness we once knew. The Apostle Paul reminds us, "For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light" (Ephesians 5:8, NKJV). We were made for the light, and it is in the light that we truly belong.

The Light Gives Life and Purpose. Think of the sun; its light produces and sustains life. In the same way, the light of Christ brings spiritual life and growth. We are not only meant to live in the light, but we are also called to be a light to others. Jesus declared, "You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden... Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven" (Matthew 5:14−16, NKJV). Our purpose is to shine.

Darkness Cannot Overcome the Light. The fear I felt on that bike ride was real, but it was powerless against the streetlights. Each one broke the darkness's hold. It is a spiritual truth that darkness cannot extinguish the light of God. "And the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not comprehend it" (John 1:5, NKJV). When fear, anxiety, or temptation surrounds you, remember that the smallest flicker of God's truth is more powerful than the greatest shadow.

The Deception of Hiding. It's easy to get caught up in the darkness. We think it hides our weaknesses and our sins. In the shadows, we feel anonymous, believing no one can see our flaws. But the truth is, we can't see them clearly either. We can't heal what we keep hidden. Sin thrives in secrecy, but it is exposed and defeated by the light. "And this is the condemnation, that the light has come into the world, and men loved the darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil" (John 3:19, NKJV). Hiding in the dark is not safety; it's a trap.

Life will have its dark stretches. You may feel far from home with a long ride ahead. Don't linger in the darkness. Be fast to repent. Be first to seek forgiveness. Fix your eyes on the Light ahead—Jesus Christ. Pedal with all your might toward Him. Rest in His presence, gather your strength, and then press on to the next point of His grace. Move from one light to the next, and trust that He will guide you safely home.

I apologize for missing a post last week. Here is an update.

My Amazing Trip to the DRC

I recently had the incredible chance to go on a trip to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) with Donald Trump's Faith Advisory Council. It was a journey that really opened my eyes! We met the President and the Prime Minister. What!!!

One big thing I learned is that following Jesus isn't always easy or safe. We were not always safe. It made me think of that quote from Narnia about Aslan: someone asked if he was safe, and the answer was, "No, but he is good." That really stuck with me. Being a Christian can be tough and going where He leads is not always safe, but God is always good, and that's what truly matters.

Global Family in Faith

Another amazing discovery was just how many believers there are all over the world! Deep in Africa, I met people who love Jesus so much. They read His word, study it, and genuinely want to grow closer to Him. This brought me so much peace. To see people sharing God's word in a place so far away was just incredible.

God's Hand in Leadership

The trip also reminded me of a Bible truth: when the righteous lead, the people rejoice. It reminded me that God puts leaders in place, sometimes to help us, and sometimes to teach us something important. Either way, God is in charge. He's the one truly ruling all nations.

A Trip to Remember

This was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. It was special to stand with and listen to leaders in a country to which I’d never been. Seeing how much they respected people of faith (especially Pastors) really touched my heart. I'll be praying for the Democratic Republic of Congo. I'm so thankful to the friends who invited me on this wonderful journey.

Looking Ahead for Desoto Christian Academy

Because of this trip, our students at Desoto Christian Academy will now have friends and allies on the other side of the world. What a huge blessing and joy! As we get ready to start a new school year, I'm praying for all our students, parents, teachers, and staff. My hope is that we'll all keep our focus on Jesus. May the Holy Spirit fill us with His energy and passion, and may we see God do amazing things like never before!