The Man in the Pew Show with Phil Mershon

Kingdom Business: A Blueprint for Marketplace Impact with Wez Hone

Sun, 31 Aug 2025 10:57:00 -0400

NOTE: This episode had a couple sound drops so there will be a jump in the conversation. It's still worth sharing, but forgive this unrecoverable glitch.

Have you ever wondered how to truly integrate your faith with your business pursuits? In this episode, I sit down with Wez Hone, a serial entrepreneur and business coach from Australia, to explore the transformative power of kingdom-minded business practices.

Wez shares his remarkable journey from a non-Christian background to becoming a passionate advocate for faith-driven entrepreneurship. We discuss:

The Untapped Potential of Marketplace Ministry

Why business people represent one of the most unreached groups for the Gospel
How to view your vocation as a vital part of God's mission
Practical ways to be a full-time minister in the marketplace

Radical Obedience in Business

Wez reveals how he runs large-scale business conferences at a significant personal loss, challenging us to consider:

The power of putting Kingdom principles before profits
How small acts of obedience can lead to exponential impact
Real-life examples of entrepreneurs transforming their communities through business

Spiritual Warfare in the Marketplace

We explore the often-overlooked reality of spiritual battles in business:

Why the enemy targets effectiveness more than salvation
The importance of being spiritually armed while building your business
How to maintain Kingdom focus amidst worldly pressures

Throughout our conversation, Wez offers a compelling vision for what it means to be truly "kingdom-minded" in business. His insights challenge us to move beyond Sunday church attendance and into a life of radical obedience and impact in our everyday work.

Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, this episode will inspire you to see your business as a powerful vehicle for advancing God's Kingdom. Are you ready to embrace a new paradigm of success that goes beyond profit margins? Tune in to discover how aligning your business with God's purposes can lead to both spiritual and material abundance.

Learn more about the Kingdom Global Summit in Franklin, TN Sept 25-26, 2025.

Did Jesus Laugh? (7-Minute Prayers)

Sat, 13 Mar 2021 13:47:32 -0400

Do you wonder if Jesus ever laughed? Does it feel incongruous that Almighty God might enjoy a belly laugh?

Most of the pictures we have of Jesus reveal a strong but serious man. After all, he drove out the moneychangers and regularly rebuked the Pharisees for their hypocrisy. He never wavered from his eternal mission to seek and save the lost.

But Jesus was fully man and fully God. As a result, he felt the full gamut of emotions. He wept over the death of Lazarus (John 11) and grew angry at the hard-hearted response of the religious leaders. He certainly bore all the fruits of the Spirit, including joy.

Robert Funk put it like this, “Jesus used humor and hyperbole to punch holes in pomposity … Part of Jesus’ charisma, was that he attended parties, drank wine, used irony, and hung out with outcasts.“

Portraying Jesus in His Humanity

Tim Washer, on episode 141, reminded me of the painting by Ralph Kozak which portrays Jesus laughing with his head tilted back in pure delight—perhaps even a belly laugh. This painting was inspired by Willis Wheatley, one of the first modern artists to see a side of Jesus that includes laughter and joy.

Show notes: https://maninthepew.com/142

Laughter is Medicine for the Soul with Tim Washer

Mon, 08 Mar 2021 08:00:00 -0400

Do you find it easy or hard to laugh at life? The bible says laughter can be like medicine to the soul.

A study conducted by the University of Maryland found that laughter reduces stress, pain, and conflict. It literally makes the heart function better.

The Bible references laughter nearly 50 times. Laughter makes the heart cheerful and helps us cope with the unexpected., In Genesis 18, Sarah laughed when God promised something that seemed too good to be true—a son at the age of 80. When it came true, she named her son Isaac which means “he will laugh.”

It seems God has a sense of humor. Have you ever looked at a giraffe, a baboon, or a dolphin? Dolphins seem to be born to laugh with us. Monkeys laugh at us.

Tim Washer teaches laughter

In episode 141, Tim Washer and I discuss how laughter helps us get through life’s ups and downs. Tim studied improv under Amy Poehler, and has worked on Saturday Night Live, Conan, and Last Week Tonight with John Oliver. He’s also worked in marketing communications for IBM and now works as a virtual event speaker and emcee.

Tim regularly teaches marketers how to use humor and laughter as a way to discover new ideas. He explains that laughter helps us face hard things like a global pandemic or more personal issues such as brain surgery.

Show notes: https://maninthepew.com/141

Waiting for Heaven No Longer: a Tribute to Dr Larry Crabb

Mon, 01 Mar 2021 01:38:30 -0400

If I looked at your bookshelves, who would I presume has had the biggest influence on your life?

Thankfully the number of books you own by an author doesn’t necessarily translate to impact—otherwise, you might think John Grisham is my mentor. I do love a good fast-moving legal thriller, but I don’t plan to go into law or to write novels.

Outside of fiction and bible commentaries, you would find more books by Dr. Larry Crabb on my shelves. Some of them I’ve read multiple times. They have all impacted me, and in some cases transformed me.

Larry (he preferred we drop the doctor) passed away on February 28, 2021. I want to pause to honor a man who showed me how to follow Jesus.

Show notes: https://maninthepew.com/140

From Prosperity to Gratefulness with Ray Edwards: Day 90

Sat, 20 Feb 2021 08:00:00 -0400

Do you think it’s wrong to make money? Have you been taught that those who prosper financially must have done something wrong or evil?

Ray Edwards believes that we were all meant to prosper. For some our prosperity is a spiritual abundance that is accompanied by a vow of poverty. Most of us are called to greater prosperity than we’ve dreamed, but we’re afraid to pursue it because of faulty beliefs.

Introducing Ray Edwards

While I ultimately realized it wasn’t my calling to awaken the church out of economic lethargy, I’m happy to say that Ray Edwards is joining his voice with the likes of Dave Ramsey to call the church to prosper so that we might be a blessing to the world. Ray’s new book, PermissiontoProsper.com, serves as a clarion call to all believers to shed our debt and embrace our God-given mandate to be fruitful and multiply.

Ray Edwards is a Communications Strategist, Copywriter, and the author of How to Write Copy That Sells. His podcast, The Ray Edwards Show, is consistently one of the top-ranked shows on iTunes and has been downloaded over 1 million times. Ray has worked on copy and marketing with some of the most powerful voices in leadership and business. He's helped generate an estimated $300 million in revenue for clients like Tony Robbins, Michael Hyatt, Dan Miller, Jeff Goins, Jack Canfield, Frank Kern... and many more. He's been featured on Forbes.com, SocialMediaExaminer.com, and Entrepreneur.com.

Ray was also the very first guest on the Man in the Pew show. Click here to hear that interview.

For full article and show notes, go here: https://maninthepew.com/gc90

The Power of Imagination in Becoming Grateful (7 Minute Prayers): Day 89

Fri, 19 Feb 2021 08:00:00 -0400

Are you afraid of your imagination? Do you imagine you’ll get yourself into trouble if you dream too much?

The church and imagination

The Church has historically discouraged imagination out of a fear that we will violate the second commandment, “You shall not make for yourself an image in the form of anything in heaven above or on the earth beneath or in the waters below” (Exodus 20:4 NIV).

This fear is somewhat merited. Many times our imaginations do get us into trouble. Aaron gave into the people’s demands to create a golden calf, even while Moses was on Mt. Sinai receiving the Ten Commandments! The danger is when we worship the objects of our imagination.

Fantasy and imagination

In my own life, I spent countless hours as a youth fantasizing and imagining myself flying, walking on the moon, or dating the girl of my dreams. When I took a recent personality test, I was even labeled as a dreamer.

Proverbs 14:18 (MSG) says, “Foolish dreamers live in a world of illusion; wise realists plant their feet on the ground.” Ecclesiastes 5:7 says, “Much dreaming and many words are meaningless.”

While these warnings are merited, they miss something key: God made us in his image. When God thought up something in his mind he then spoke it into being. We were designed to do the same.

At its core, imagination can release all kinds of possibilities and free us from many ailments.

For the full article and show notes, go to: https://maninthepew.com/gc89

Can You Fake Thankfulness to Become Grateful? (7 Minute Prayers): Day 88

Thu, 18 Feb 2021 08:00:00 -0400

You’ve heard the phrase, “Fake it ‘til you make it.” Does that apply to gratitude? Does that feel inauthentic to you? Maybe even like you’re lying?

Raised as a Christian, I was taught to never lie. So to suggest that I fake gratitude feels counter to my moral fabric.

But researchers suggest that faking it may actually be a good strategy.

Dr. Alex Korb is a neuroscientist at UCLA and the author of The Upward Spiral. He explains: “You can turn a tendency toward a downward spiral of depression and anxiety into an upward spiral of joy and clarity in your life. Expressing gratitude activates serotonin production, which improves your mood and allows you to overcome bad habits, giving you more to be grateful for.”

Does the Bible teach you to fake it?

I hear that and wonder if the Bible supports this. We can actually see the Bible teaching this implicitly. In Psalm 103, David says, “Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits” (v. 1). He’s reminding himself to praise God. He may not be feeling like praising God at the moment, but he has a long list of reasons to be thankful.

In Psalm 42, David asks, “Why are you cast down, O my soul, and why are you in turmoil within me?” He answers himself by reminding himself about what will one day happen, “Hope in God; for I shall again praise him, my salvation and my God.”

Let’s be honest, David doesn’t feel hopeful at this moment; he feels depressed and despondent. But he knows his mind controls his emotions, not the other way around.

Full article and show notes available at: https://maninthepew.com/gc88

Thoughtful Gifts Flow from Gratitude (7 Minute Prayers): Day 87

Wed, 17 Feb 2021 08:00:00 -0400

Did you grow up singing the Doxology every Sunday in church? If you did, what associations do you have? If you didn’t, how do you feel when you hear it?

In many liturgical churches, the Doxology is sung immediately prior to the offertory. In essence, we remind ourselves to “Praise God, from whom all blessings flow” before we return our gifts to him.

Whether the singing of the Doxology feels natural or arcane to you doesn’t really matter. The truth behind it demonstrates an important gratitude principle: gratefulness flows most easily when someone does something special, unexpected, and undeserved for us. And the corollary: gift-giving flows most naturally from a grateful life.

Secrets of Thoughtful Gift-Giving

I have three friends who are very good at gift-giving who showcase several ways we can all learn to give better gifts. As you hear these stories, think about people you know who are great gift-givers.

For the full article and show notes, go to https://maninthepew.com/gc87

Turning Captive Thoughts into Thankfulness (7 Minute Prayers): Day 86

Tue, 16 Feb 2021 08:00:00 -0400

How easy is it for you to keep your thoughts thankful, positive, and joyful? When Paul challenges us to “take captive every thought,” does that feel hard or easy?

If you’re like me, that feels impossible. My mind feels like that commercial with the cat-herding cowboy. As soon as I take one thought captive, all the other thoughts go scattering in all directions.

Of course, it’s not like that all the time. On good days I can sustain focused thought for hours and I can recount numerous reasons to be thankful. For example, I’m grateful to have a loving wife, amazing friends, gifted children, and countless books, adventures, and fond memories.

Toxic Thought Bombs

But it doesn’t seem to take a very large “toxic thought bomb” to make all those good thoughts dissipate. Dr. Caroline Leap actually describes it as hot air. When a new thought pattern hasn’t fully taken root—which takes a minimum of 21 days—it will turn into vapor if not cultivated to maturity.

That’s what happened recently when my wife and I started talking about finances. We started with prayer and level heads, but it didn’t take very long for me to become overwhelmed.

In my Monday morning quarterback seat, I know and remember that God has always been faithful to us. I also know my wife loves me and that we have committed to weather every storm together. But on that night the stress was mounting and my thoughts started turning negative.

I wish I could tell you a story of a valiant recovery. The truth is I lost this skirmish, but I haven’t lost the battle. I’ve actually recovered more quickly than ever before.

For the rest of the show notes, see: https://maninthepew.com/gc86

The Battle Toward Gratefulness (7 Minute Prayers): Day 85

Mon, 15 Feb 2021 08:00:00 -0400

What’s the longest range goal you’ve ever set? Did you accomplish your goal? Most of us lose the battle for gratitude because we don’t have the right plan.

Long-term battle plans

In England, they estimate it takes 250 to 300 years to build a cathedral. That’s a lot of planning and preparation.

At New College, Oxford beetles infested the oak beams in the dining hall. Trying to find replacement beams seemed impossible, except that the original architects planted oak trees with the express purpose of being used to replace the beams. When were those trees planted? Over 500 years prior to when they were needed.

I share these two stories to give you the perspective that your battles really aren’t that long and you would benefit from taking a much longer view of your life.

I shared on day 84 how I almost quit this Gratitude Challenge after only 80 days. 80 sounded like a big number until I read about the perseverance required to build a cathedral or win a military war.

Battle of Verdun

The battle of Verdun, in World War I, is the longest battle in recorded military history. Fought between France and Germany, over one million lives were lost in a battle that lasted 302 days. While the French ultimately recaptured their forts and villages, the battle was mired in deception, counterattacks, and heavy losses.

Can you imagine going to the frontline in that war? The likelihood of survival doesn’t sound very high, but personal survival wasn’t the goal—victory was.

Battle for our minds

You’re fighting a much more significant battle when you fight for control of your mind. Toxic thoughts and negativity lead to defeat and make you susceptible to the attacks of the enemy.

Full article: https://maninthepew.com/gc85

How I Almost Quit Being Grateful (7 Minute Prayers): Day 84

Sun, 14 Feb 2021 08:00:00 -0400

Have you ever started a project only to find it feels pointless or a waste of time? Have you ever quit something just because it became too hard?

I have a confession to make. I almost quit this 90-Day Gratitude Challenge on day 80.

Why I almost quit the 90-Day Gratitude Challenge

On Day 72 my wife woke me in the middle of the night with some very troubling news. But I couldn’t comprehend what she was saying because I had taken some melatonin to help me sleep—a major issue for me I discussed on day 45. My brain was foggy and her words didn’t compute.

When I awoke the next morning I remembered that something significant had happened so I asked her about it only to discover it was worse than I feared. I froze.

While I can’t share specifics, suffice it to say it’s news that would make any parent panic. It’s like the call we received in 2019 from a stranger telling us that our daughter had been in a car crash. But this was worse.

I had already written and recorded a couple of episodes for the challenge, so I took a break from writing while we worked on the problem. But when it came time to start writing again the words stopped flowing. I went into my archives to find things I had written before that I could repurpose. That worked for a few days.

And then day 80 confronted me. I had nothing written or recorded. I spiraled into a new level of depression and felt stuck. In fact, I didn’t feel grateful and felt hypocritical telling others to be grateful, even though I knew that was part of my escape path.

For full article and show notes see: https://maninthepew.com/gc84

Appreciation at Work: How to Create a Grateful Workforce with Dr. Paul White: Day 83

Sat, 13 Feb 2021 08:00:00 -0400

Do you feel appreciated at work? Do you know how to show appreciation to your co-workers?

Dr. Paul White and Dr. Gary Chapman did research to understand how the way we speak to one another at work makes a difference in the workplace culture. The result was a new work called The Five Languages of Appreciation.

In this episode, I walk through some of the things Dr. White learned and how we can help our companies become more grateful.

The Five Languages of Appreciation

Adapted from the 5 Love Languages by Dr. Gary Chapman, these categories reveal how we relate and show appreciation at work:

Words of affirmation - Shared by 46% of employees, many appreciate receiving verbal acknowledgment of their work and contributions to the team.
Quality Time - 26% of employees value quality time with co-workers and leaders. They probably won’t appreciate an email or sticky note as a primary way of communicating news, but instead, desire to talk in-person or directly.
Tangible Gifts - Only 6% of employees appreciate receiving a gift as the primary way of acknowledging performance.
Physical Touch - In the workplace, a small percentage (

How Authenticity Can Promote Gratitude (7 Minute Prayers): Day 82

Fri, 12 Feb 2021 08:00:00 -0400

Have you ever received inauthentic gratitude or praise? How does that contrast with receiving authentic thanks?

We raise our children to say please and thank you, but it’s obvious when they don’t mean it. As they mature they learn to play the part and it becomes harder to tell if they mean it or not.

Dr. Paul White recently told me a story about a seminar he led for business leaders. The discussion turned to the importance of giving authentic appreciation. One leader asked him, “Isn’t it good enough that they believe you’re being authentic? After all, perception is reality, right?”

Dr. White responded that reality is reality and people can tell when you’re authentic. As a test of this brazened man’s approach, Paul asked the man’s co-workers if they would be likely to believe his words of praise when they went back to the office. They responded that they never have trusted anything he says.

Ouch!

For the full show notes, go here: https://maninthepew.com/gc82

Why Don’t We Give Thanks More (7 Minute Prayers): Day 81

Thu, 11 Feb 2021 08:00:00 -0400

When you approach God, how do you think about Him? Do you find it easy to thank him or does it feel like something you’re supposed to do?

When I was younger I saw God like a cosmic Santa who doled out gifts at his discretion. I wasn’t sure how Jesus and salvation fit into the equation, but I knew I wanted all the good stuff God promised.

As I grew older and saw God perform miracles, I grew in amazement at his power, his mercy, and his provision. But I still didn’t have categories for how to think about his wrath and judgment alongside his kindness and grace. I definitely couldn’t understand where talking donkeys fit into the world.

Our thoughts about God affect our thanks.

Larry Crabb asks the following questions about how we relate to God:

Do you see God as a distant ruler who only gets involved with the major issues of your life?
Does he seem more like a watchmaker who started your life and is only needed when something is broken?
Are you more like a spoiled brat or a penniless beggar?
Do you demand he come through for you or do you expect him to pass you by—just like everyone else in your life?

The way we think about God affects the way we thank him and the expectations we have of his involvement in our lives. Our thoughts on prayer even impact how often and how long we pray.

For the full article and show notes, see: https://maninthepew.com/gc81

5 Ways to Grow in Worship (7 Minute Prayers): Day 80

Wed, 10 Feb 2021 15:23:56 -0400

Do you know how to worship God? Sounds like a silly question, especially in a series on gratitude. But this is a vital question, “Do you really know how to worship?”

Seventy years ago A.W. Tozer lamented that Christians had more resources for knowing about God than ever in the history of the Church. Yet, worship had become a ritualistic program. Twenty-five years ago, James Boice lamented that the problem had become even worse.

Neither of these authors could’ve predicted the explosion of worship resources we’ve seen in the last two decades. We have more worship songs, websites, training courses and books than you can image. Worship leaders can even obtain degrees in worship from many different colleges and seminaries.

You could say we’re more educated about worship. Yet, I still ask the question, “Do we know HOW to worship?”

The Church’s View of Psalm 95

The Church has used Psalm 95 as a call to worship (called the venite) since at least the 4th century. Many traditions even see Psalm 95 as creating a form for worship based on the three Hebrew words for the word “come.”

All this familiarity can cause one of two mistakes: 1) we just look for what makes us feel good in worship, and thereby ignore God’s stiff warnings in verses 7b and following; or 2) we miss God’s voice speaking to us and we start to worship the forms and rituals of worship (a most serious case of misplaced affections).

5 Ways Psalm 95 Teaches Us How to Worship

There are many things we can learn about worship from the 11 verses found in Psalm 95, but I want to focus on five:

For the full show notes, go here: https://maninthepew.com/gc80

Moving from Chaotic Thinking to Thankfulness (7 Minute Prayers): Day 79

Tue, 09 Feb 2021 08:00:00 -0400

Do you ever find it hard to focus and think clearly? Does it feel like your brain is a chaotic mess?

On day 31 we discussed the power of thankful thinking and how to make that a habit. Today I want to look at how our minds become chaotic and how we can use deep thinking to become more thankful.

This issue became very personal for me recently. My family received some news that triggered a spark of chaotic thinking that quickly unraveled months of discipline and focus. I woke up one day and couldn’t string together two coherent thoughts. I wound up taking a mental health day because I literally couldn’t think well enough to do even the most basic of tasks.

It was around this time when I heard Dr. Caroline Leaf describe chaotic thinking as the enemy of mental health. She compares deep thinking with overthinking, “Overthinking essentially taxes your ability to think deeply about any one thing, impeding your ability to examine and understand information.”

She goes on to say, “Overthinking can put your brain and body into negative stress, which can result in feelings of anxiety, depression, and fear, and may even cause panic attacks. In fact, ruminating on negative thoughts is one of the biggest predictors of mental ill-health.”

Wow. That described me on that day.

How do we move from chaotic thinking to thankful thinking?

I’ve discovered at least six steps we can take.

For the full show notes, see: https://maninthepew.com/gc79

How Remembering Mortality Leads to Gratitude (7 Minute Prayers): Day 78

Mon, 08 Feb 2021 08:00:00 -0400

Do you spend time thinking about your mortality? If you do, does it fill you with gratitude?

If you’re like most modern Christians, you spend as little time as possible thinking about death. Unless you’re an estate planner, pastor, doctor, or mortician, you likely don’t spend a lot of time even thinking about mortality. Our youth-driven culture keeps us in the constant pursuit of life through technology and science.

Todd Billings, a pastor and theologian, found this thought pattern disrupted by a diagnosis of incurable cancer. In his book, The End of the Christian Life, Billings calls us to embrace our mortality in our daily life and faith. He says, “This is the journey of genuine discipleship, following the crucified and resurrected Lord in a world of distraction and false hopes.”

Memento Mori: Remember death

The latin phrase memento mori means to “remember death.” It reminds us that we are mere mortals and to never get too big a view of ourselves. It’s also a tremendous reminder to cherish every moment.

The phrase originated when victorious Roman generals returned from battle. While they walked the streets—receiving the adulation of the crowds—a servant followed the general and whispered, “Respice post te! Hominem te esse memento! Memento mori!” Translated, this means, “Look behind you! Remember that you are but a man! Remember that you will die!”

3 Ways to Remember Death that Lead to Gratitude

Contrary to our modern aversion to discussing death in a meaningful way (outside of dramatized news reports and movies), there is tremendous benefit that comes through thoughtful remembering. Here are three ways...

Show notes: https://maninthepew.com/gc78

Stop Ruminating Thoughts with Gratitude (7 Minute Prayers): Day 77

Sun, 07 Feb 2021 08:00:00 -0400

Do you ever find yourself ruminating over poor decisions you’ve made? Perhaps you become anxious over what might happen or what could have happened, and it makes you fearful.

I’ve experienced this recently. It feels like a fog envelops your mind and you can’t escape the negative thought cycles. A friend described it as a huge snowball that keeps gaining momentum as it rolls downhill—like an avalanche of thoughts. The only way to stop it is with the right strategies and outside help.

In The Fellowship of the Ring, J.R.R. Tolkein paints a picture of King Theoden getting caught in the mental web spun by Wormtongue. Theoden becomes increasingly incapacitated as he believes lies, and eventually, he can no longer think for himself.

Likewise, when we get caught ruminating over negative thoughts, we can find ourselves trapped in a web of our own making.

For complete show notes: maninthepew.com/gc77

The Role of Gratitude in Recovery from a Heart Attack with Jackie Bledsoe: Day 76

Sat, 06 Feb 2021 08:00:00 -0400

Do you appreciate your life? What if you had a heart attack?

In this episode, I talk to Jackie Bledsoe about his near-death experience with a heart attack. We explore the profound role that gratitude plays in the recovery process.

The heart attack

At the age of 43, Jackie had a massive heart attack, known as a “Widowmaker.” He thought he could be dying and saw God orchestrate the lives of seven people to be at the right place at the right time to keep him alive. Several of them were supposed to be somewhere else, but in retrospect, it’s obvious God directed each of them to be there.

Jackie remains thankful daily as he knows he could have left his family without a husband, father, and son. He has a profound sense of mission as he knows God spared him for a reason.

The path to recovery

That doesn’t mean the road to recovery was easy. As a former athlete, Jackie had to learn to not push through the pain as the pain was a warning sign. But once his body recovered, he now has to tell his mind that he’s no longer injured. The body and mind don’t heal at the same speed!

Spiritually, he’s learning to remain on God’s spiritual heart surgery table. At times, he would prefer to get off and take things at his own pace. But after experiencing complete blockage in one of his major aortic valves, he understands the importance of allowing God to remove spiritual blockage from his heart (e.g. selfishness and pride).

The Role of Gratitude in Recovery

Not only does Jackie practice daily gratitude, but he also treasures every moment knowing that most people don’t survive a widowmaker heart attack.

Like Jackie, I’ve had a near-death experience and know that when we remember that we could have died, it gives us many reasons to be grateful each and every day.

Researchers at Harvard University discovered that gratitude is a key contributor to recovering from a heart attack. Jackie practices daily gratitude by remembering three distinct things for which he’s thankful. He also regularly retells the story of his heart attack recovery.

The Spiritual Recovery Team

Just as God orchestrated seven people to save Jackie’s life, he’s also seen the importance of allowing key people into the spiritual heart surgery and the recovery process. We falsely believe we can do it by ourselves, but God designed us to help one another.

QUESTION: Who’s on your spiritual recovery team?

Who is Jackie Bledsoe?

Jackie Bledsoe is a bestselling author and international speaker who's reached over 100,000 people with The 7 Rings of Marriage.

He and his wife, Stephana, are the founders of Happily Married Couples, a marriage brand that helps couples better connect and communicate, so they can create marriages worth celebrating.

You may have seen Jackie on Good Morning America, ABC News, WTHR (NBC Indianapolis), The 700 Club, Moody Radio, The Huffington Post, Yahoo!, CBN’s Turning Point International, YouVersion's Bible App, HomeLife Magazine, and more.

You can learn more about Jackie on his blog, https://jackiebledsoe.com/, and get help for your marriage at https://happilymarriedcouples.com.

For more episodes, see: https://maninthepew.com

Giving Thanks When Under Duress (7 Minute Prayers): Day 75

Fri, 05 Feb 2021 08:00:00 -0400

Does it sometimes feel like God is severely punishing you? How do you respond when you are under duress?

Psalm 118 shows us that the way forward begins with thanksgiving. As we gratefully remember God’s past deliverance, we can pray for God to save us today and look forward to our final day of salvation.

But let’s be honest, singing songs of thanksgiving when you’re under duress or when it feels like you’re being disciplined doesn’t come naturally. It requires intentional discipline to remember what is true and it’s usually difficult.

5 Ways to be Thankful When Under Duress

Here are five ways Psalm 118 shows us to be thankful and how that leads to trust which increases our confidence and hope.

Show notes: https://maninthepew.com/gc75

The Compounding Effect of Gratitude (7 Minute Prayers): Day 74

Thu, 04 Feb 2021 08:00:00 -0400

Do you know how the compound effect works? How about compounding gratefulness?

Investment strategies based on wishful thinking usually end in greater debt and disappointment. For example, purchasing a daily lottery ticket will rarely result in enough winnings to even pay for that decision. But that doesn’t stop millions of dreaming of picking the “big one.”

Likewise, a diet strategy based on periodic fasts and challenges will ultimately only lead to yo-yo dieting which tends to lead to higher weights, not lower. I speak from experience.

When it comes to gratitude, we can’t just make ourselves more grateful by making a conscious choice to stop worrying and be thankful.

What’s needed is a complete reversal in how we approach change.

Show notes: maninthepew.com/gc74

Gratitude for Deliverance (7 Minute Prayers): Day 73

Wed, 03 Feb 2021 08:00:00 -0400

Are you looking for deliverance? Do you want God to set you free from internal problems or external enemies?

In Psalm 144, David asks God to rescue him from unnamed enemies. He provides a model for how believers can pray for deliverance in the midst of any opposition.

It starts with our mindset. Will we think positively or negatively? Will our thoughts be thankful or ungrateful?

Today’s episode explores what we can learn from David’s prayers for deliverance.

Show notes: https://maninthepew.com/gc73

Allow More Singing at the Table (7 Minute Prayers): Day 72

Tue, 02 Feb 2021 08:00:00 -0400

Does your family allow singing at the table? When’s the last time you sang at a business meeting?

Growing up, we weren’t allowed to sing at the table—or hum or whistle, for that matter. It went against all rules of etiquette. I didn’t question it at the time, but I wonder now who decided that rule?

And while there’s growing research and trends showing the benefits of singing at work and in all of life, we still tend to relegate singing to the culturally accepted places and times.

It’s time to change that. I believe we can all benefit from more singing.

Show notes: https://maninthepew.com/gc72

How to Break Out of Our Mental Cages (7 Minute Prayers): Day 71

Mon, 01 Feb 2021 08:00:00 -0400

Have you ever felt caged or trapped in your work? What if I told you that it’s more likely that you created the mental cage? Breaking out begins with gratitude.

Many factors influence job satisfaction, but in general, over half of the American workforce is dissatisfied with their job. Those numbers increase or decrease based on workplace culture, opportunities for advancement, recognition, and benefits. (Here’s one study of many.)

One element most of the research I saw ignored is our mindset. If we have an abundant and grateful mindset, we are far more likely to find satisfaction in our work.

I can hear your voices now: “But Phil, you don’t know my boss.” Or, “My company has terrible benefits, and I feel stuck.” Or, “I haven’t had a raise in years, and my job doesn’t use my skills and abilities.”

You’re right. I don’t know what your situation is like, but I think there’s a different way to look at it.

Show notes: https://maninthepew.com/gc71

Cultivating a Tree of Thankfulness in Your Mind (7 Minute Prayers): Day 70

Sun, 31 Jan 2021 08:00:00 -0400

Do you enjoy growing a garden? If not, do you enjoy seeing beauty in nature or a carefully cultivated garden?

If I’m honest, I do not enjoy gardening. I have allergies, and I almost always have to stop early due to some kind of allergic reaction.

But I have one tree that I take great pride in, which I planted in my yard. We found a sapling growing where it didn’t belong and decided to strategically plant it. Now, it’s become a strong tree, able to withstand severe Kansas winds. Soon, it will provide significant shade for decades to come.

When it comes to replacing toxic thoughts, the process is similar to gardening. It involves not only pulling up the toxic weeds (er, thoughts) but also replacing them with new trees composed of good thoughts.

A friend of mine calls his tree the tree of righteousness. I’m going to suggest that we plant and cultivate a tree of thankfulness in our minds and hearts.

Show notes: maninthepew.com/gc70

Overcoming the Comparison Trap with Gratitude with Ian Anderson Gray: Day 69

Sat, 30 Jan 2021 08:00:00 -0400

Do you find yourself staring at the success of others and wishing you were more like them? Does it make you jealous or feel like you’re not enough? If you’ve said yes, you’ve experienced the comparison trap.

In this podcast episode, I interview Ian Anderson Gray about his experience with the comparison trap. We discuss things like self-doubt, how we measure ourselves, and the importance of God’s truth.

Ian is the founder of the Confident Live Marketing Academy and is the host of the Confident Live Marketing Podcast. He helps entrepreneurs to level up their impact, authority, and profits by using live video confidently. As well as being a geek, husband, and dad to two kids, Ian is also a professional singer and lives near Manchester in the UK.

Ian was also a guest on episode 45, where we discussed the imposter syndrome, the wicked cousin to the comparison trap. Ian also has a fun giveaway ending on February 4, 2021.

We also explored comparison back on Day 46 of this Gratitude Challenge.

Be sure to listen to the very end for Ian’s fun new jingle for Man in the Pew.

Show notes: maninthepew.com/gc69

How Listening Increases Gratitude (7 Minute Prayers): Day 68

Fri, 29 Jan 2021 08:00:00 -0400

Have you ever been part of a conversation where it’s obvious the other person doesn’t understand your point? Have you ever stopped at that moment to wonder if you’re truly listening to their perspective?

Most people do not listen with the intent to understand; they listen with the intent to reply. ~Stephen R. Covey

The truth is, it’s easier to hear than to speak, but it’s hard to listen with the desire to understand and appreciate.

I think gratitude plays an important role in improving our listening skills. And as a result of becoming better listeners, we will also become more grateful.

Show notes: maninthepew.com/gc68

Replace Toxic Thoughts with Thankfulness (7 Minute Prayers) Day 67

Thu, 28 Jan 2021 08:00:00 -0400

Do you ever wake in the middle of the night with a dreadful thought? Does your mind quickly focus on negative issues? Those thoughts become toxic when we feed them too much and they start to consume us.

Recently, I had just finished reading a very emotional piece to my wife. I was in a vulnerable place, and she asked me a simple question driven by a genuine and right desire. My mind received it as criticism that I wasn’t doing enough. I quickly became defensive.

In the past, I might have gone down a path toward a toxic wasteland, but this Gratitude Challenge has taught me a few things that helped me avoid that.

I’m not alone. Sean Grover is a psychotherapist, and he tells about his own experience of recovering from toxic thoughts through the simple power of gratitude journaling. Dr. Caroline Leaf also has a process that helps people identify and replace toxic thoughts.

7 Steps to Replace Toxic Thoughts with Thankfulness

Based on my experience, here are seven steps to replace toxic thoughts with gratitude.

Show notes: maninthepew.com/gc67

Your Gratitude Training Plan (7 Minute Prayers): Day 66

Wed, 27 Jan 2021 08:00:00 -0400

Did you know that 80% of all people break their New Year’s Resolutions by Valentine’s Day? Have you experienced this trap?

Why do you think that is?

Pastor Craig Groeschel thinks it’s because we’re trying too hard. Instead, we need to approach life like an athlete approaches training.

Neuroscientist Dr. Caroline Leaf proves it’s because we’re going about it the wrong way. She believes we can literally perform brain surgery on ourselves (not with knives, but with thoughts).

Were you aware that master performers still hire coaches? You might think that once you reach a certain level of proficiency, you no longer need a coach. After all, you’re already the best.

We explored how that’s true for athletes in our conversation about resiliency, but I was surprised to learn that professional musicians still have coaches. It doesn’t mean the coach is better, but the coach has permission to mettle.

In this article, we’re going to allow Dr. Leaf to be our coach.

Show notes: maninthepew.com/gc66

My Journey Toward Gratitude (7 Minute Prayers): Day 65

Tue, 26 Jan 2021 08:00:00 -0400

Have you made a bold claim or shared an audacious vision? Did you gulp after you said it and realized now you need to make good on your word or feel like a fraud? That’s how my journey toward gratitude started.

On November 13, 2020, I wrote a provocative article about why gratitude matters. I wrote it to prepare myself for Thanksgiving, but I also knew intuitively it was something I needed to think about more deeply.

At the end of the article, I whimsically said, “So I’m wondering who wants to join a 90-day Gratitude Challenge?” I gave a few details on what I promised and forgot about it.

Almost immediately, several people said they wanted to join me. My wife got excited and started inviting dozens of her friends. Before long, there were 50+ people in a private Facebook group.

Internally, I thought, “What have I got myself into?” But I knew there was no turning back.I decided this was the perfect time to launch “7 Minute Prayers,” an audio devotional I’ve been wanting to do for two years. I also committed to writing a daily article and include some kind of daily challenge and prayer.

Show notes: maninthepew.com/gc65

Fight Loneliness with Gratitude (7 Minute Prayers): Day 64

Mon, 25 Jan 2021 08:00:00 -0400

Do you ever feel intense loneliness? Like you’re the only person in the world who’s fighting the battles you face?

It happens often and it’s a self-reinforcing cycle. When you feel lonely you don’t want to reach out or acknowledge the problems you face, and, as a result, you think you’re alone.

For example, I’m in a couple of different men’s prayer groups. I appreciate it when someone boldly shares that they struggle to manage alcohol or some other addiction. It makes it acceptable for others to admit the same struggle. Suddenly the shame, isolation, and the power of the addiction can be broken.

But it’s not instantaneous and the deeper the feelings of isolation and loneliness the longer the path to recovery.

Show notes: maninthepew.com/gc64

How to be Grateful for God’s Provision (7 Minute Prayers): Day 63

Sun, 24 Jan 2021 08:00:00 -0400

Have you ever been down to your last few dollars in your bank account or wallet? Since you’re still alive enough to read or hear this, I suspect you have a story you could tell of God’s provision in those desperate moments.

Angus Nelson, on day 62, told the story of when he and his wife went on a luxury cruise with clients while only having a few hundred dollars left in the bank. They knew they needed to sell their house and downsize. When they got home their house sold in record time and as soon as they got into a smaller apartment they watched God rebuild their family finances. It’s a God-story they will never forget.

Confidence in God’s Provision

In the Psalms, we see many songs of thanksgiving. Often they were offering thanks for something God had already accomplished: rescued from enemies, healed from diseases, or the forgiveness of sins. The Hebrew word most often used is hodah which means to confess or acknowledge. They confessed the good things God has done. They also used a related word todah which means songs of thanksgiving or songs of sacrifice.

For the rest of the show notes go to: maninthepew.com/112

Developing a Grateful Mindset with Angus Nelson: Day 62

Sat, 23 Jan 2021 08:00:00 -0400

Do you struggle to remain thankful? Do you find your mind slowly slipping from a grateful mindset into a negative mindset?

It happens to all of us. It doesn’t have to be inevitable.

Today’s episode is with Angus Nelson, a Men’s Performance Coach. He believes it all starts with your mindset which is formed by renewing your mind through creating the right habits. In other words, it’s what you believe about God, yourself, and the world that will affect your outlook on life.

Your mindset is based on your beliefs

For example, do you truly believe the following?

God is a God of abundance (Psalm 65:11).
The kingdom of God is constantly expanding (Mark 4:26-27).
God loves me without condition (1 Cor. 13).
I am more than enough because God is more than enough (Ps. 68:28).
I have what it takes (2 Cor. 12:9).
Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross is truly sufficient for all my sins: past, present, and future (2 Cor. 2:6).

If you believe the opposite of these, you will increasingly embrace a negative mindset. But if you consistently rehearse these truths, your mind will grow in strength and confidence.

We discussed this idea on Day 31 when we talked about Thankful Thinking.

It starts with the brain

Your brain is the “number solution organ on the planet.” It wants to solve problems, starting with your beliefs about yourself.

“What you hear about you think about. What you think about you talk about. What you talk about you bring about.”

--Angus Nelson

Change your mindset through habits, not goals

Setting goals will not solve mindset issues. In fact, goals can cause you to coast once you meet the goal.

Instead we need to create new neuropathways. New mental habits. The best way to do that is to create a daily manifest or set of beliefs that we will rehearse.

Science shows us that information attached to emotion has far more power to transform us. Reciting information will lead to boredom and could possibly innoculate us to the truths we rehearse. But if we learn to practice intentionally and attach emotions to each statement it can lead to transformation.

Angus created the 10 Minute Motivator to help anyone who wants to make daily changes in how they think and live.

LINK: https://www.manofwealth.com/10minutemotivator

The role of discipline in mindset

Pastor Craig Groeschel said: “Discipline is choosing what you want most over what you want now.” Creating a new set of mental routines will be hard work, but it’s well worth it.

How to Overcome Shame with Gratitude (7 Minute Prayers): Day 61

Fri, 22 Jan 2021 08:00:00 -0400

Day 61: 90-Day Gratitude Challenge

Have you ever felt like running and hiding due to shame? How thankful did you feel in that moment?

Author and counselor Dan Allender says shame can feel like quicksand where we pull away from relationships and reality and slide into a pit of despair. Can you relate? I can.

Show notes: maninthepew.com/gc61

Appreciation: Is it Different from Gratitude? (7 Minute Prayers)

Thu, 21 Jan 2021 08:00:00 -0400

Day 60: Gratitude Challenge

Is there really a difference between gratitude and appreciation? Does it make a difference in how we live?

While the differences may appear to be semantical at first, the distinction can prove vitally important in how we live our lives.

Show notes: https://maninthepew.com/gc60

When Gratitude Becomes Difficult (7 Minute Prayers)

Wed, 20 Jan 2021 08:00:00 -0400

Gratitude Challenge Day 59

Do you find it difficult to remain grateful on some days? Does it ever annoy you to see people who seem to be grateful all the time?

Join the club! The writer of Proverbs can relate:

A loud and cheerful greeting early in the morning will be taken as a curse! Proverbs 27:14 NLT

Researchers have discovered that some of us are indeed hard-wired to be more grateful. Whether our genes, our brains, or even our personalities, there are many factors working for or against our grateful disposition.

But that doesn’t mean we can’t become more grateful. Gratefulness is fundamentally a choice and the emotions will eventually follow.

We’ve documented extensively through this challenge the many benefits and challenges to gratitude. In this episode, I’d like to discuss a couple of biblical reminders that can help us on those days we don’t “feel” like being thankful.

Work and Gratitude: Do They Mix? (7 Minute Prayers)

Tue, 19 Jan 2021 08:00:00 -0400

Do you wonder if gratitude belongs at work? Doesn’t competition mean I need to keep a guarded attitude with my co-workers?

Over the last fifteen years, researchers have studied the effects of gratitude on health, well-being, and organizational culture. The consensus is that gratitude makes an enormous personal and corporate difference.

Even if there’s a dark side of gratitude, the benefits by far outweigh the risks. Here are five ways to create a culture of gratitude at work.

The Relentless Pursuit of Gratefulness (7 Minute Prayers)

Mon, 18 Jan 2021 08:00:00 -0400

What is the opposite of relentless? Some would say intermittent, short-lived, or irresolute. I think it’s settled.

Let me explain.

While the Apostle Paul encourages us to discover contentment in our circumstances (Phil 4:10-19), he also challenges us to approach faith like a soldier or athlete embraces discipline.

In 1 Cor: 9:24, he says: “Don’t you realize that in a race everyone runs, but only one person gets the prize? So run to win!”

If we want to grow in righteousness or gratefulness, it makes sense that we would develop a relentless focus. While being grace-filled, it’s also possible to create a disciplined life that presses toward the prize of God’s blessing, “Well done, my good and faithful servant!”

Singing Songs of Gratitude (7 Minute Prayers)

Sun, 17 Jan 2021 08:00:00 -0400

Have you ever been in a dark pit? One where you feel stuck and every time you try to climb out you keep slipping back down? Can you imagine singing in the bottom of a swamp?

Psalm 40 shows David in a slimy pit crying out to God for deliverance. In faith, he declares that he will sing God’s praises when he’s been delivered.

What kind of trouble is he in? More than he can count. More than the hairs on his head.

What can we learn about thankfulness from the David, the Singing King?

Finding Gratitude While Fighting Cancer with Kep Crabb

Sat, 16 Jan 2021 08:00:00 -0400

Do you know someone with cancer? Perhaps you’re fighting a battle with cancer even today?

My father-in-law fought off cancer, against all odds, and lived another nineteen years. It doesn’t always work out like that.

How do you live gratefully when faced with the prospect of dying prematurely?

In this interview, I discuss with Kep Crabb, founder of Larger Story, how he’s responding to his wife’s recent diagnosis of stage 4 lung cancer. He talks about how it’s shaping the way he lives each day. He describes how his prayers are changing, and how his longing for heaven is intensifying. Things that used to matter a lot, like playing music, don’t have nearly the same level of appeal.

How Possibility Thinking Flows from Gratitude (7 Minute Prayers)

Fri, 15 Jan 2021 08:00:00 -0400

Do you ever find yourself saying, “I can’t do that?” Perhaps you have a valid reason.

I have two friends with stage 4 cancer. Another friend recently lost her husband to accidental death.

If they told you they couldn’t do something right now, wouldn’t you be inclined to give them a pass?

That’s what I thought, too, until I read Matthew 14.

How to Combat Discontentment with Gratitude (7 Minute Prayers)

Thu, 14 Jan 2021 08:00:00 -0400

You’ve heard the cliches. “The grass is always greener on the other side.” Or “One man’s junk is another man’s treasure.” Discontentment abounds when we lose our gratitude.

We’ve probably all seen something like this happen: A man grows discontent in his work so he starts looking around. He sees friends changing jobs and thinks this will make him happy. He discovers what looks like the perfect job. Six months later, or maybe after two years, he feels dissatisfied yet again.

The same thing can happen in marriage, with our houses, and even in our lives. We desire a different life based on jealousy, envy, or discontentment that’s stirred by social media and our thought patterns.

Finding Gratitude after Death (7 Minute Prayers)

Wed, 13 Jan 2021 08:00:00 -0400

Have you lost someone you love to death recently? If not, have you had to completely let go of a job, a relationship, or a dream?

You may be thinking this feels awfully morbid and how can I possibly be thankful in the face of death? It’s a fair question.

While I’m not a grief counselor, I have experienced my share of death. My father passed away due to an accidental fall. I have multiple friends who have suddenly passed away through accidents, illness, COVID, and for other reasons. I have several friends who’ve been given the death sentence of cancer at far too young an age.

Death is natural, but not God’s design

How to Express Gratitude in Community (7 Minute Prayers)

Tue, 12 Jan 2021 08:00:00 -0400

Do you regularly practice gratitude as a family or church community? How is that different from personal gratitude?

Life.Church recently celebrated their 25th anniversary. As part of their celebration they thanked God for thousands of changed lives, stories of God’s amazing provision, and the unprecedented opportunities for sharing the Gospel. It was very moving and God-honoring.

It got me thinking about how Western Christians tend to practice our faith very individualistically. What might it take to be grateful together?

Can Gratitude Cure Depression? (7 Minute Prayers)

Mon, 11 Jan 2021 08:00:00 -0400

Have you ever felt depressed? I don’t mean just when you feel a little melancholy, but when you feel like you’re in a dark cave for days on end and can’t seem to climb out?

In this Gratitude Challenge, I’ve been advocating the benefits of gratitude for freeing us from anxiety and stress while also producing a protective shield around our hearts and minds. Scripture clearly teaches this is possible, but what about when it doesn’t happen? What about when we’re medically depressed? Should the intentional practice of gratitude be our only remedy?

Let’s talk about this.

CAUTION: I’m not a doctor or a licensed therapist. If you feel depressed for more than a few days you should likely talk to your doctor or a therapist.

The Protective Power of Gratitude (7 Minute Prayers)

Sun, 10 Jan 2021 08:00:00 -0400

Ever feel like you’re being attacked on every side? Do you wish you could have a protective wall around you allowing you to finally rest?

Scripture reveals God as our refuge and strong tower. He is a real strength and a constant never-sleeping guard.

But what’s our role in building up those walls? No surprise here, but gratitude is a critical ingredient.

Gratitude won’t keep you from all harm, but it will make you more resilient. Gratefulness strengthens your faith and helps you get back up when you fall.

The Deliberate Practice of Gratitude (Interview)

Sat, 09 Jan 2021 08:00:00 -0400

Have you ever played a musical instrument? Were you deliberate about practicing or did your parents have to force you?

Gerald J. Leonard claims that professional musicians spend 95% of their time practicing and only 5% on stage. He should know...

Gerald is a professional jazz musician, a Portfolio Management Professional consultant, and the author of two books: Culture is the Bass and, his new book, Workplace Jazz. As a lover of neuroscience, he understands the importance of deliberate practice.

In this conversation, we explore the unexpected connection between deliberate practice and gratitude.

The Power of Grateful Relationships (7 Minute Prayers)

Fri, 08 Jan 2021 08:00:00 -0400

Do you struggle to remain grateful through your day? How about in your closest relationships? Do your closest friends and family also struggle to remain thankful?

Jim Rohn famously said: “You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with.”

So if you tend to spend time with negative people, you will remain negative. If you feed your mind with positive information, your mind will follow suit.

Let’s explore how this works.

Comparison is the Thief of Gratitude

Thu, 07 Jan 2021 08:00:00 -0400

Have you ever felt caught in the comparison trap? Do you know what I mean? It’s where we constantly compare ourselves to the rich, the famous, the successful or the beautiful and slowly start to despise and devalue our gifts and abilities.

President Teddy Roosevelt famously said, “Comparison is the thief of joy.” While it almost sounds biblical, this truth still confronts an ugly problem we all face.

How to Sleep Better through Intentional Gratitude (7 Minute Prayers)

Wed, 06 Jan 2021 08:00:00 -0400

Do you struggle to get a good’s night sleep? Does your mind race as you rehearse conversations, invent new products, or stress over the things you didn’t accomplish?

Researchers have confirmed what the Bible has taught for millennia: gratitude helps you sleep better.

Moving from Discomfort to Gratefulness

Tue, 05 Jan 2021 08:00:00 -0400

How do you respond to the discomfort of a pebble in your shoe? What about when it’s a more serious illness?

Discomfort, pain, and illness challenge us mightily when we hear Paul’s words, “Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again—rejoice!” (Phil. 4:4 NLT). How am I supposed to rejoice when I’m sick, depressed, or irritated?

Pastor Joe McGreever tells the story of Jack Hinton, who led a mission trip to a leper colony on Tobago. Toward the end of their trip, they held a worship service. One of the lepers entered the room, sitting on the back row with her face turned away from the stage. When Jack asked for song requests, she turned around and with a huge smile requested the song, “Count Your Blessings.”

If a leper can learn to praise God in the midst of her suffering, perhaps we can find a way to thank God in the midst of our minor discomforts or major life tragedies.

How Your Hall of Faith Leads to Thankfulness

Mon, 04 Jan 2021 08:00:00 -0400

Do you take time to think thankfully about those who have gone before you? What does your hall of faith look like?

Study to Become Thankful

Sun, 03 Jan 2021 08:00:00 -0400

Do you want to know God better? Do you want to become more thankful? According to the Bible, the answer is simple: study.

Psalm 111 puts it clearly: a) worship God with thankfulness, b) study his works, and c) follow God’s words if you want to know God and find wisdom and understanding.

On the Dark Side of Gratitude

Sat, 02 Jan 2021 16:32:49 -0400

Does gratitude ever feel like a panacea or unachievable? Are we giving thankfulness too much credit?

The benefits of gratitude abound. It increases our faith and resilience. Thankfulness leads to stronger relationships and health. Grateful people experience greater joy and handle life’s problems more easily.

Biologically we can observe how gratefulness rewires our brain releasing chemicals that make us feel better and allow blood to flow more easily which frees us to think more creatively and clearly. And when we choose to think gratefully every day, the reticular activator reinforces those things we choose to think about.

So physical, spiritual, and relational benefits abound. But there is a dark side of gratitude we don’t like to think about.

Patiently Waiting: How to Pursue Gratefulness

Fri, 01 Jan 2021 17:09:44 -0400

Do you love waiting in line? How about waiting on God’s timing?

Our culture drives us to get results. Yesterday. We look for ways to speed up and become more efficient. We’re impatient when someone makes us wait or slow down.

So it makes sense that we grow impatient in our pursuit of becoming more grateful.

Answered Prayers: the Fuel for Thankfulness

Thu, 31 Dec 2020 08:00:00 -0400

Do you ever take time to look back at answered prayers? How does God’s past faithfulness fuel your present gratefulness?

Early in my career, I traveled for three months visiting college campuses and churches to encourage and inspire them in their missionary service. We saw God move in powerful ways.

Once a week our team of four sat down for an hour and thanked God for ways he moved during the previous week. One of us would write down as many of these items as possible in our team journal. At the end of three months, we had a journal full of thanksgiving and it inspired all of our faith to see the names of people God had touched and ways God provided for us.

When God answers your prayers, how do you respond?

Radical Generosity Produces Abundant Gratitude

Wed, 30 Dec 2020 09:00:00 -0400

Which comes first: generosity or gratitude? Do you find it easier to be grateful or generous?

It’s probably like the chicken and egg debate. In this case, they both flow from love and that love produces abundant joy which results in generosity and gratitude.

I like to summarize it like this: Radical generosity in response to generous grace results in abundant gratitude and joy.

In his second letter to the Corinthians, Paul commends the Macedonian church for their rich generosity. His words help us see at least seven ways to become more intentionally generous and how that can reinforce gratitude in our lives.

4 Ways to Turn Disappointment into Gratitude

Tue, 29 Dec 2020 08:00:00 -0400

Have you made big plans that turned into an even bigger disappointment? How do you remain hopeful when things don’t go as you desired?

If this hasn’t happened to you, yet, I’m sure you’ve seen it happen many times over.

What shattered dreams do you have? Did you plan to be married by now? Were you expecting to have made partner already? Have you let your kids down again because you couldn’t take them on a dream vacation? Is your marriage less than what you hoped?

Here are 4 ways to turn disappointment into gratitude.

4 Ways to be Grateful for Your City

Mon, 28 Dec 2020 08:00:00 -0400

Do you love the city where you live? Or do you merely tolerate it or even despise it?

How about your neighborhood or your house?

Jeremiah wrote to the people of Judah as they went into exile for 70 years. Instead of constantly pining for home, he told them: “Work for the peace and prosperity of the city where I sent you into exile. Pray to the Lord for it, for its welfare will determine your welfare.” Jer 29:7 NLT

He acknowledges they may feel like foreigners and don’t belong, but they can decide whether to make this their home and work for its prosperity. It’s emotionally and psychologically impossible to work for peace and remain resentful. Gratitude can replace hatred and discontent through a series of conscious choices.

How to be Thankful in Times of Trouble

Sun, 27 Dec 2020 08:00:00 -0400

Have you ever experienced times of trouble to the point where it felt like you couldn’t move on? Perhaps you’ve been on the verge of death or known someone who is?

How do your prayers change in these seasons? What if your prayers had that same sense of desperation all the time? Do your prayers stay stuck in the mire or do you end in praise and thanksgiving?

Psalm 116 is one of the most personal psalms and it reveals some important insights into how to pray and how to respond gratefully to God’s initiative.

How to Overcome Jealousy and Envy

Sat, 26 Dec 2020 08:00:00 -0400

Do you struggle with jealousy or envy? How do you help your children overcome these temptations?

Jealousy rears its ugly head at the most inopportune times.

The Book of Proverbs teaches, “Anger is cruel and fury overwhelming, but who can stand before jealousy?”

James addressed this in his letter and provides four ways to overcome jealousy.

6 Ways to Be Grateful in Battle

Fri, 25 Dec 2020 08:00:00 -0400

Have you ever faced a battle or challenge in your life that seemed insurmountable? How did that make you feel? I suspect you didn’t list gratitude among your feelings.

Researcher Robert Emmons acknowledges the difference between feeling grateful and being grateful. We can’t easily affect our feelings in the face of depression, economic challenges, or relational conflict. We can, however, choose to be grateful which allows us to gain perspective and maintain resilience in the midst of whatever battle we face.

Here are 6 ways to be grateful in battle...

5 Ways Jesus Intercedes for You

Thu, 24 Dec 2020 08:00:00 -0400

Did you know Jesus intercedes for you? Right now? Constantly.

Perhaps you need to be reminded of this today. Here are five things Jesus prays for you, as revealed in his prayer in John 17, with a short prayer of thanks in response.

Thankful Thinking: How to Make it a Habit

Wed, 23 Dec 2020 08:00:00 -0400

Does thankful thinking come naturally for you? Or do you find it easier to be negative, critical, or jealous?

I’ve discovered my ability to think thankfully directly relates to how deeply I think.

Fight Entitlement to Cultivate Gratitude in Your Life

Tue, 22 Dec 2020 08:00:00 -0400

Which is easier to teach your children: entitlement or gratitude? Which is easier for you?

According to some scholars, we live in the Age of Entitlement. Author Randy Alcorn observed, however, that we’ve merely perfected the art of entitlement. The people of Israel first demonstrated entitlement on scale as they left Egypt into the 40 years of wandering.

As we earlier discussed, reciprocity and selfishness oppose gratitude. Entitlement must be combatted to make room in our minds and hearts for thankfulness to prevail.

Thankful for Scripture

Mon, 21 Dec 2020 08:00:00 -0400

How many bibles do you have in your house? How many of them do you actively read? I encourage you to count how many copies of scripture you own at some point soon.

If you’re like me, there’s a story behind each of the bibles. One I received from my parents, another upon graduation, another while I was in seminary, and another from a church I served.

Have you ever thanked the people who gave you each bible you own? How about the people who gave you a love for scripture?

Today, I want to focus on 4 ways we can express thanks for how God’s word shapes our lives.

Thankful to be Known by God

Sun, 20 Dec 2020 08:00:00 -0400

When you look at the mirror do you like who you see? Or do you count the things you don’t like? Do you wish you could be fully known and fully loved? God knows us better than we know ourselves and loves us beyond our imagination.

When I believe this, it leads me to greater levels of thankfulness. When I don’t believe this, I find myself bitter, angry, and resentful.

Building Momentum in Becoming More Grateful

Sat, 19 Dec 2020 08:00:00 -0400

Do you feel like gratitude is a habit? Or does it feel unnatural? I believe you can create momentum through a series of intentional choices.

Here’s a test: when you face anxiety-producing circumstances how do you respond? Does it keep you awake at night? Do your dreams turn negative and reinforce the anxiety? Or do you find ways to be thankful in prayer?

I recently had several anxiety-producing events occur within a short period of time. I’ll confess that it disrupted my sleep and my dreams turned negative and agitated.

So I decided I would put gratitude to the test. Here are five things I learned. Most of them are common sense. They also form a fun acronym of MOPED. Designed to get you moving!

How the 5 Senses Lead to Thankfulness

Fri, 18 Dec 2020 09:00:00 -0400

Do you enjoy the tastes and smells of a delicious meal? How about the sights and sounds of a beautiful sunset? Scripture calls us to taste and see that the Lord is good, but I think all five of our senses can lead us to greater thankfulness.

5 Ways to Give Thanks in the Daily Grind

Thu, 17 Dec 2020 08:00:00 -0400

Do you ever find yourself bored or stuck in the daily grind of life? Does it feel difficult to give thanks when life feels monotonous and uneventful?

Today we are we will explore 5 ways to give thanks in the daily grind.

Is ingratitude the Opposite of Thankfulness?

Wed, 16 Dec 2020 08:00:00 -0400

What do you think is the opposite of gratitude? Do you think it’s ingratitude?

I think I’ve been getting it all wrong. Just yesterday on Day 23 I suggested that reciprocity might be the greatest enemy of thankfulness.

Then I spoke with a counselor friend of mine. We talked about the root system of sin in our lives and how we tend to just pull off the leaves and leave the roots untouched.

If you have an area of sin in your life that’s affected you for years or decades, it’s likely there’s a deep root system with many emotions connected to it. Gardners know it’s hard work to unroot noxious weeds. How much more so, the noxious sin patterns in our lives?!

Reciprocity is an Enemy of Gratefulness

Tue, 15 Dec 2020 08:00:00 -0400

When you receive a gift do you feel compelled to reciprocate? When you give a gift do you also expect something in return? If we’re honest, reciprocity can undermine our gratefulness.

Today we are studying why reciprocity might actually be the enemy of gratitude.

10 Reasons to be Thankful

Mon, 14 Dec 2020 09:00:00 -0400

Ever wake up and just want to roll back over? Being thankful seems like the last thing on your mind when you’re lying sick in bed or overwhelmed by the circumstances of life.

But that’s exactly when we need to be thankful.

Top Ten Reasons to be Thankful (even if you don’t feel like it)

Thankful When Wrongfully Accused

Sun, 13 Dec 2020 08:00:00 -0400

Have you ever been wrongly accused? Perhaps you’ve felt misunderstood or misjudged? I certainly have.

How do we move from feeling mistreated to expressing gratefulness? Let’s watch how that happens for David in Psalm 7.

Thankful for My Family

Sat, 12 Dec 2020 08:00:00 -0400

Are you thankful for your family? Even when they’re imperfect?

If we’re honest, families provide a mixed bag of blessings, negative memories, and curses. How are we supposed to be thankful for those who caused deep hurt in our lives?

I believe it’s possible to be deeply thankful for all the blessings of our families while remaining honest about the painful memories and even the ongoing hurt caused by our families.

Thankful for Your Day of Salvation

Fri, 11 Dec 2020 09:00:00 -0400

Do you remember your day of salvation? Has it become a faded memory or does it seem like yesterday?

In reflecting on the power of the gospel, we can find many reasons to be grateful. Today, I want to look specifically at the day God saved us.

Thankful to be Adopted

Thu, 10 Dec 2020 09:00:00 -0400

Have you adopted a child or were you adopted? I have many friends who adopted children because they couldn’t biologically have their own children. It’s one of the most powerful expressions of human love.

A mother and father accept a child who feels rejected by his birth parents and give him all the love and rights of natural children. It’s a profound decision that is costly (usually 10s of thousands of dollars), sacrificial, and life-changing.

And it doesn’t always go well. Adopted children sometimes grow to resent their adopted parents. Some come with trauma and illness requiring extensive treatment and extra measures of love.

The Christian parents I know who adopted children say it’s one of the single greatest things they ever did. They live with a constant reminder of God’s love.

You see, God adopted us. He now calls us sons and daughters. We can now call him Daddy.

Our adoption shows us many reasons to be thankful. Let’s explore a few:

4 Reasons to be Grateful for Life

Wed, 09 Dec 2020 09:00:00 -0400

Are you grateful to be alive? Have you had a near-death experience or lost a friend or family member prematurely?

How we process these experiences influences whether we become grateful or ungrateful people.

Taking Things for Granted

Tue, 08 Dec 2020 09:00:00 -0400

Have you ever had something taken away that you thought you would have forever? How does that feel? Were you able to remain thankful after losing something you took for granted?

Our tendency to take things, relationships, or life for granted can lead to unthankfulness or resentment. However, it can also cause us to cherish life all the more.

The choice is ours, sort of. Let’s explore why it’s easier to take things for granted than it is to be thankful at all times.

5 Habits of Highly Grateful Christians

Mon, 07 Dec 2020 09:00:00 -0400

Do you struggle to be grateful? Join the club. Most of us need to cultivate the habit of gratefulness.

The Greater Good Science Center commissioned the Expanding Gratitude Project to fund 27 different projects to understand the power of gratitude. One researcher penned some of his results as Six Habits of Highly Grateful People. I liked his title but decided to see what habits I would notice in scripture.

Let’s study two highly grateful believers to see what habits they share.

26 Reasons to Gratefully Acknowledge God’s Love

Sun, 06 Dec 2020 09:00:00 -0400

Do you ever find yourself in a pit and don’t know how to get out? How do you respond when you’re in a fight with someone you love? That seems like the last place and time to gratefully acknowledge God’s presence, but that’s exactly what scripture calls us to do.

Psalm 136 reminds us of three important things that give us hope and confidence in the middle of whatever we face in life.

Why I'm Thankful for My Mentors

Sat, 05 Dec 2020 09:00:00 -0400

Other than your parents, what mentor has had the biggest impact on your life? Have you ever taken the time to express how thankful you are for them?

A good mentor believes in you, prays for you, challenges you, and will be there when you fall down. A great mentor sees your potential and knows how to draw it out.

Thankful for Our Daily Bread

Fri, 04 Dec 2020 09:00:00 -0400

Have you ever thought about the miracle of Israel’s wandering in the wilderness for forty years? I’ve always marveled that they weren’t more thankful for the daily manna. Let’s put ourselves in their metaphorical sandals for a few moments.

Redemption Leads to Thanks

Thu, 03 Dec 2020 09:00:00 -0400

Do you know an addict who’s been freed from their addiction? Perhaps you know someone who’s been rescued from sex trafficking? These kinds of redemption stories provide great reasons to give thanks.

4 Reasons to be Grateful for God’s Creation

Wed, 02 Dec 2020 09:00:00 -0400

When you look at creation how do you respond? Does it lead to gratefulness?

I’m with David on this one. When I look at the heavens in their splendor, I wonder who am I that the God who created all things even thinks about me? (see Psalm 8:3-4)

In reflecting on God’s creation, I’d like to consider four ways creation can inspire gratitude.

Why am I Ungrateful?

Tue, 01 Dec 2020 09:00:00 -0400

Why do you think it’s easier to be ungrateful than it is to be grateful? We all can come up with many excuses. I think there’s one central reason, but it may not be what you expect.

On Day 2 of the Gratitude Challenge, we looked at the grumpy old man and the cranky old woman none of us want to turn into. Today I want to take a closer look at why gratitude comes unnaturally or said in converse, why many of us are ungrateful.

Turning Memories into Thanks

Mon, 30 Nov 2020 09:00:00 -0400

Are you a forgetful person? Or are you more like the Memory Man who can’t forget anything?Memory plays a powerful role in our lives. How we allow our memories to feed our minds and hearts can influence whether we become thankful or resentful people.

7 Reasons to be Thankful for the Gospel

Sun, 29 Nov 2020 09:00:00 -0400

“Preach the gospel to yourself every day," said Jerry Bridges.

Why would we need to do that if we're already Christians?

Here’s my take: Because we have short memories and we need frequent reminders of our need for God’s saving mercy.

In this article, I’m going to explore seven reasons why we can be thankful for the gospel.

When Should I Be Thankful?

Sat, 28 Nov 2020 09:00:00 -0400

When is a good time to be thankful? I think intuitively we know it’s not just on Thanksgiving Day. If we’re honest, that can become the most contentious day of the year for many families. People who are bonded by blood, but not ideology, passions, or careers, get together to share a meal and pass out in front of football games.

That’s not your home? It’s okay. My point remains, gratitude seems to be a daily issue, not an annual one. Let’s explore seven times scripture calls us to be thankful.

4 Ways to Give Thanks to God

Fri, 27 Nov 2020 09:00:00 -0400

Do you ever find yourself at a loss for words when giving thanks to someone? Does it feel empty, shallow, or inauthentic?

I suspect we’ve all been there. Sometimes it’s challenging to find the right way to express thanks. Other times we know we’re going through the motions. Some of us are better actors than others.

How does that work with God?

Listen in to hear some ways to grow in thankfulness toward God.

7 Themes to Inspire Your Thankfulness

Thu, 26 Nov 2020 09:00:00 -0400

Have you ever been at the Thanksgiving dinner table and asked your family and friends to share something they are thankful for? Ever fall into a thankful rut? Certain topics feel safe, appropriate, and even “spiritual”, but we don’t allow the Spirit to inspire our imaginations to notice the myriad of things we can be thankful for.

This episode will highlight seven general themes that can serve us immediately as we gather around the Thanksgiving table or anytime we pray.

7 Benefits of Gratitude

Wed, 25 Nov 2020 09:00:00 -0400

Do you want to be closer to God, make more friends, create a greater impact in this world, and live a longer more stress-free life?

The solution is simple but profoundly difficult. Modern science now confirms the answer the Bible has taught for millennia: be grateful.

Let’s take a brief look at the benefits of gratitude as revealed in the bible and modern science. There are at least 7 benefits we can explore.

Why gratefulness is so difficult

Tue, 24 Nov 2020 12:41:07 -0400

If you’ve spent any time around small children, you’re well aware that toddlers can be cute and quite demanding. A comedian once said that he could rule the world with an army of three-year-olds.

Children have to be taught to be thankful whereas selfishness, jealousy, and entitlement come quite naturally.

As Christians, we understand we inherited our sinful nature from our first parents, Adam and Eve. Let’s explore why gratitude comes so unnaturally, even when we know it’s good for us.

Gratitude #1: Why is Gratitude So Important

Mon, 23 Nov 2020 13:40:03 -0400

Have you ever been around grumpy old men? Does it make your heart sing to be with cranky old women who criticize everything and everyone?

Do you enjoy hanging out with ungrateful children? Ungrateful children often become grumpy old men and cranky old women.

As a parent, I tried to teach my children to say please and thank you. But I know those are only words. True gratefulness comes from a change of heart.

From Ritual to Relationship Learning to Talk with God with Tom Schwab

Wed, 27 Jun 2018 09:00:00 -0400

Are your prayers a ritual, transactional, arguments or conversations? Do you prayers feel like you're casting spells or incantations or is all of life prayer?

Tom Schwab, founder and chief evangelist officer for Interview Valet, grew up learning rote prayers, grew to a place where was him giving advice to God and as an adult he is learning to have conversations with God.

“Sit down and shut up; you’re not God.”--Tom Schwab

How long would your marriage last if you only spoke once a week?

Learning to pray is similar to the way children learn to talk. We start by mimicking those around us. As we grow older we learn how to speak more clearly through models and rules. When we reach adolescence we learn to discuss, debate, present and critique. Once we become adults we learn to have deep meaningful conversations that are intellectual, emotional and spiritual.

In prayer, we move from infant babbling to childlike rhymes and songs to the creative expressions of youth. If we're fortunate enough to approach adultlike maturity, our prayers become a two-way street where we listen more than we talk and yet we're able to be fully honest with God.

Ritual prayers aren't bad if we learn to slow down and think about what we're praying. But if we speed through them so we can get to what we want, they become like Christian magic, except they have no potency.

When Jesus taught the disciples to pray the Lord's prayer, he was aware of their tendency to make this another meaningless ritual which is why he frequently accuses the Pharisees of empty prayers that are intended for others to hear. God hears the prayers of the humble man, not the boaster.

Let us know how this conversation is helpful in your prayer walk with God.

Why Pray? 5 Reasons to Pray More with David C. Scott

Wed, 20 Jun 2018 09:00:00 -0400

"If we’re never communicating with God, how can our relationship grow?"

63% of Christians admit to being easily distracted while they pray.

5 Reasons why we should pray:

Building our relationship with the Father T
o encourage others
To get perspective - Eph. 3:14-19; Psalm 73
Help us overcome temptation and negativity
We pray because Jesus prayed

3 Things We Can Do Each Day

Start with a focus on why am I praying today?
Find someone to pray with.
Ask how God to fill me and change me before answering this request
Find opportunities to pray for others

Finding Dave:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davescott/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/davecscott

Website: http://scottdigitalmarketing.com/

God and Hamilton How Art Reveals Spiritual Themes

Sat, 09 Jun 2018 19:19:35 -0400

Have you seen the musical Hamiton? It's been a greatly popular musical in recent years. Rosie O’Donnell even went so far as to call it “medicine that I need for my soul. It is vital to me; it feels like going to church.”

How to Pray More Effectively

Wed, 08 Nov 2017 10:00:00 -0400

Ever feel like you don’t have enough time to pray? When you do have time do you know how to pray more effectively?

Ever wonder if God is listening?

In this episode, Phil Mershon explores some of these issues and makes a big announcement about Man in the Pew.

How to Overcome Imposter Syndrome with Ian Anderson Gray

Wed, 01 Nov 2017 10:37:43 -0400

Do you suffer from imposter syndrome? The feeling that you’re going to be discovered to be a fraud. Someone might find you don’t have the skills, knowledge or experience needed for your work or calling.

These are all lies, but they sneak in very subtly to our thinking.

As believers, we can embrace the truth that God is our power and He equips us for everything he asks us to do.

In this interview with Ian Anderson Gray, we explore how this issue cripples many believers and ways we can be set free to pursue God's plans for our lives.

How to Recover After You’ve Hit Rock Bottom with Angus Nelson

Wed, 25 Oct 2017 09:00:00 -0400

What is the path to recovery after you’ve hit rock bottom?

What do you do after you self-destruct? Will God still accept you? Is there a reason to be hopeful?

Angus Nelson ruined his first marriage and wallowed in the pit of despair for three years. He had to resign from his ministry positions. People asked behind his back what he was going to destroy next.

It seemed pointless to keep trying.

Then he discovered God’s undeserved grace. He realized that the gospel changes you forever and it happens every day.

It can change you too.

How to Stop Drifting Apart in Your Marriage with Dr. Harold Arnold

Wed, 18 Oct 2017 12:07:56 -0400

Do you feel like you're drifting apart in your marriage?

You're not alone. Over 50% of marriages end in divorce and many more are in survival mode.

It doesn't have to be that way. In fact, that's not how God designed marriage. He created marriage to be a picture of unity and love. He made us to be one flesh.

The problem is that the enemy seeks to divide and conquer us so we will less effective together than we are apart. In God's economy, one plus one equals 3 or more, but Satan seeks to change that math and make it one plus one equals less than one.

What's the state of your marital math?

In this episode, Dr. Harold Arnold of the Leading You Home podcast talks about several ways we can work to stop drifting apart in our marriages. This is an important message for men and for women.

How to Exercise Faith in the Face of Uncertainty with Dave Curlee

Wed, 11 Oct 2017 09:00:00 -0400

When everything around you is falling, what do you know for sure? How do you exercise faith when everything feels uncertain?

God’s word never fails. God fleshes out his truth in our lives through Jesus’ work on the cross and applies it to our everyday circumstances. He has promised that he will never back down from a promise.

"God is not man, that he should lie, or a son of man, that he should change his mind. Has he said, and will he not do it? Or has he spoken, and will he not fulfill it?" (Numbers 23:19)

We do well when we remember his faithfulness to us, especially in those seasons when we know we didn’t deserve it.

Dave Curlee is an ordinary guy. He's a college dropout who’s been laid off more than once. Yet, his story is made extraordinary as he rehearses the profound ways God has moved throughout his life.

Dave is a model for us all to follow. He remembers the dates and times when God showed up. He tells those stories to his kids, his friends and now he shares them with us.

By listening to Dave, perhaps you can see your life through a lens of faith and realize that you also have an extraordinary God story (or two or three) to tell.

How to Create a Vision Story for Your Life with Scott Beebe

Wed, 04 Oct 2017 15:21:36 -0400

Having a vision statement doesn't mean you have vision. What you may be missing is a vision story; a story so clear and compelling everyone knows what to do.

Scott Beebe, founder of Business on Purpose, shows you how to create a vision story in this episode.

How to Become a Great Leader with Hans Finzel

Wed, 27 Sep 2017 13:59:58 -0400

Are great leaders born or bred?

Leadership author Hans Finzel says, “If you do what comes naturally, you will be a poor leader.”

You may be born with natural leadership skills, but that doesn’t make you a great leader. Hitler had charisma and leadership ability, but he was an awful leader.

In this episode, we will explore some of the common mistakes leaders make and some specific ways to become a great leader.

From Success to Suicide to a Life of Significance with Warren Peterson

Wed, 20 Sep 2017 09:00:00 -0400

Do you want success or significance? Warren Peterson had success, but when he lost his stuff he despaired to the point of planning his suicide. Thankfully, God stopped him and now he helps men pursue living a life of significance.

This episode reveals Warren's journey from despair to finding a life worth living and how he can help you discover ways to become more significant in the eyes of God, your family and the world.

Holy Imagination Learning How to Dream Again with Cliff Ravenscraft

Wed, 13 Sep 2017 09:00:00 -0400

Have you forgotten how to dream? Do you wonder what might happen if you actually pursued your dreams? God called us to have a holy imagination where we can dream and imagine a future that is better than today.

Cliff Ravenscraft, commonly known as the Podcast Answerman, shares his story of letting go of a successful career as an insurance seller to becoming a content creator. Now he wants to help thousands of men learn to dream again and pursue those dreams.

Ambition How to Get Focused on What Matters Most with Alejandro Reyes

Wed, 06 Sep 2017 09:00:00 -0400

Do you struggle to balance your ambition to excel at work with your desire to be a family man?

As men, we were made to penetrate our world and make a mark.

Too often we fail to bring this same energy into our family lives.

Alejandro Reyes, founder of Church Marketing Labs, experienced this as a child when his father left him and he also wrestled with this as a father and entrepreneur.

Through the wise counsel of a mentor, Alejandro discovered the ability to focus on just three things. This enabled him to revolutionize his productivity, profitability and more importantly, his relational impact.

In this episode, we'll explore those three areas of focus and how you can discover yours.

How to Face Your Fears Finding the Courage to Be You with Jeremy Vest

Wed, 30 Aug 2017 09:00:00 -0400

Do you feel more comfortable wearing cheeseburger socks or a three piece suit? How do you face your fears?

Jeremy Vest is a video strategist by day, skateboards at night and loves to wear cheeseburger socks. He hasn't always felt so comfortable in his own skin. In this episode he shares how he became convinced that the world needs him to be authentic to who he is.

How to Persevere When You Feel Like Giving Up with Sean Cannell

Wed, 23 Aug 2017 09:00:00 -0400

Have you ever felt like giving up? Do you wonder what it takes to persevere when life seems stacked against you?

Sean Cannell, co-founder of Video Influencers, knows how it feels to want to throw in the towel when things seem too hard. He and his wife endured the perfect storm of a health crisis, the Great Recession, and losing a church job in the same year. Learn how they endured these storms and what you can do to be ready for the coming storms in your life.

7 Deadly Intimacy Killers And How To Conquer Them with Tony DiLorenzo

Wed, 16 Aug 2017 09:00:00 -0400

Do you wonder what happened to the puppy love you and your wife shared while you were dating? Do you long to be close to her but don't know how to rekindle that intimacy?

Tony DiLorenzo of One Extraordinary Marriage believes there are at least seven intimacy killers, but we can conquer them all. Learn how in this episode.

How to Reveal God's Love Every Day with Ramon Ray

Wed, 09 Aug 2017 12:12:11 -0400

How do we share our faith without becoming pushy, salesy, or irrelevant? Jesus commanded us to let our lights shine, but how do we reveal God's love practically?

Author and speaker, Ramon Ray, shares 7 practical tips that can inspire all of us to reveal God's love in all parts of our lives.

How to Love Your Wife and Strengthen Your Marriage with Matt Mundt

Wed, 02 Aug 2017 09:00:00 -0400

Does your marriage feel stale and uninspiring? What if you could create a love story worth telling for all ages? What if you could strengthen your marriage every day?

Matt Mundt, host of the Engaging Story marriage podcast, reveals 4 ways to help men breathe new life into their marriages. These are practical things we can begin doing today.

How to Increase Your Focus, Productivity and Energy with Dustin Stout

Wed, 26 Jul 2017 09:00:00 -0400

Do you wish you had more energy to get everything done that matters to you? What if you could get more done in less time?

Dustin Stout, co-founder of Warfare Plugins, a blogger, and entrepreneur, struggles with these very issues and shares 5 tips to increase your focus, producitivity and energy.

How to Compete Every Day and Grow Your Faith with Jake Thompson

Wed, 19 Jul 2017 14:09:39 -0400

Does competition play a helpful role in the life of believers? What if believers were to compete every day for the things that really matter?

Jake Thompson, founder of Compete Every Day, believes it can transform our marriages, our work, our friendships, and ultimately our faith.

How to Overcome Frustrations at Work with Kent Porter

Wed, 12 Jul 2017 09:00:00 -0400

Do you wonder how to overcome frustrations in your work? Does your work make a difference?

Author Kent Porter helps business leaders and employees alike find solutions for the common problems we all face in our work. Through workplace parables, Kent shows the path to overcoming our frustration is often discovered through asking better questions.

How Obesity is the Silent Enemy of the Church with Mark Mason

Wed, 05 Jul 2017 09:00:00 -0400

Is obesity the silent enemy of the church? According to many doctors, we are fighting an epidemic and it's slowly killing us. The problem is we don't recognize that the enemy is on our plates.

Check out these facts about obesity:

More than 2 in 3 adults are considered to be overweight or obese according to a National Health and Nutrition Survey in 2010.
The Center for Disease Controls projects that 42 percent of Americans will be obese by 2030

While you may not be overweight or fear this for yourself, obesity is crippling the church. I have personally felt its increasing effects over the last decade. What woke me up and caused me to take notice is a book by Dr. Michael Brown called Breaking the Stronghold of Food. In there he explores how we become addicted to food, how that steals our joy and life, and can ultimately kill us.

In this episode of Man in the Pew, Mark Mason, an engineer by day and founder of Late Night Internet Marketing by night, shares his own personal journey with food and how his doctor provided him just the wake-up call he needed.

How to Stop Burning Your Money with Paul Adams

Wed, 28 Jun 2017 11:45:03 -0400

Can you imagine telling yourself that $22.5 million isn't enough? What about $2.5 million?

Paul Adams of Sound Financial Group joins the show to discuss ways that many Christian families are burning money and putting themselves in debt. He shows how you can stop burning your money start living our lives on purpose.

10 Tested Ways To Become A Man Of Significance

Wed, 21 Jun 2017 09:00:00 -0400

What distinguishes a man of significance from the rest of us?

Over the last six months, I’ve interviewed 25 men about how their faith informs all aspects of their lives. These are men with warts and warbles, but men who follow Jesus and want to be more like him.

Looking back over these episodes, I see ten themes that I find distinguish men who make a significant impact on their worlds--at work, at home, at church, and at play. These are principles that are tested in the lives of other men and all men can learn from these. These aren't necessarily the most important for you, but they are universally important that we all study them.

3 Powerful Ways To Overcome Porn Addiction with Nate Larkin

Wed, 14 Jun 2017 09:00:00 -0400

Did you know that nearly 100% of teenage boys and 70% of men are addicted to pornography?

Most Christian men try to escape this by redefining addiction.

Perhaps the numbers aren’t as severe as this statistic, but the consequences of porn addiction are ravaging marriages, families, churches, and businesses across the world. We need a way of escape.

Nate Larkin, founder of the SamsonSociety, reveals a way of escape in this episode of the Man in the Pew. Through sharing his story, he emphasizes the importance of confession, community, and commitment in recovery.

Business as Mission How to Create Uncommon Value with Mike Gingerich

Wed, 07 Jun 2017 09:00:00 -0400

You've heard the Great Commission where Jesus said to make disciples of all nations (Mt. 28:18-20). But what does that have to do with you as a businessman? How could you use your skills and experiences to build gospel bridges to places where there are few churches? In other words, how do you run your business as mission?

Mike Gingerich, president of Digital Hill Multimedia, shares some ways he's discovered to utilize his business skills to help business and mission agencies around the world. He's even started his own mission agency called iGiveGlobal.org to help men like us discover ways we might leverage our own experiences for the sake of the Gospel.

You're guaranteed to discover some fresh ideas for how you can impact the world by doing what you're gifted to do. Start seeing your business as mission.

When Your Dream Job is No Longer Your Dream with Jason Romano

Wed, 31 May 2017 09:00:00 -0400

What’s your dream job? What if God asked you to leave you dream job? How would you feel? What would your family say?

Jason Romano, former senior producer for ESPN, felt like God was asking him to leave the security of his dream job at ESPN to pursue vocational ministry.

In this episode, Jason shares his story and encourages us all to be willing to say “yes” to God when he asks us to step outside of our comfort zones.

Why You Should Join a Mastermind with Aaron Walker

Wed, 24 May 2017 09:00:00 -0400

Have you wondered if joining a mastermind is for you? Consider this...

Have you ever faced a major life decision or encountered personal tragedy and wished you had a trusted group of advisors you could turn to? Would it be great to have a personal board of directors made of men who support and believe in you, but also wouldn't be afraid to tell you the truth?

That's exactly what you get when you join a mastermind and Aaron Walker, author of View from the Top, shares in this episode exactly what that looks like and why you should consider joining.

Responding to God’s Wake-Up Calls with George B Thomas

Wed, 17 May 2017 09:00:00 -0400

Did anyone ever tell you that you wouldn't amount to anything?

Have you ever been spared from death's door and wondered why God keeps giving you second chances?

In this episode with George B. Thomas, former youth pastor and bouncer, we explore three stories where God clearly spared his life and what he has learned from each of those incidents. Get ready to laugh, cry, and be challenged.

How Christian Parents Can Influence Competitive Youth Sports with John Mckenzie

Wed, 10 May 2017 09:00:00 -0400

Most Christian families are active in competitive youth sports. In fact 70% of American families enroll their children in organized sports during grade school and middle school.

How do Christian men take advantage of the opportunities to mentor children? How should we behave while we’re sitting in the stands and see the refs make a bad call or the coach doesn’t play our kids?

In this episode with psychologist Dr. John Mckenzie, we explore the opportunities and challenges of participating in competitive youth athletics.

ABOUT THIS SHOW:

How marathons create a life metaphor for the Christian life
Taking advantage of the mentoring opportunities in competitive youth sports
Standing against the temptation to be an angry fan

How to Stay Focused in a Distracted World with Leslie Samuel

Wed, 03 May 2017 09:00:00 -0400

Has your wife ever asked you to put down your phone while you’re talking to her? Do you wonder what’s happening inside your brain while you’re “multi-tasking”?

This week’s episode features Leslie Samuel, from BecomeaBlogger.com, as we discuss neuroscience and ways we can be more focused in our relationships with God and our family, as well as hacks for being more productive in our work.

How to Lead a Thriving, Sexy Marriage with Owen Hemsath

Wed, 26 Apr 2017 11:00:00 -0400

Has your spouse ever threatened you with divorce? Have things ever dissolved to the place where divorce feels like the only option?

In this episode, Owen Hemsath shares the story of how his wife's threat of divorce awakened in him the desire to become a mature and godly leader in their marriage. It didn't happen overnight, but eight years later they decided to start a ministry called Thriving Sexy Marriage to help other couples develop marriages that last.

How to Speak the Truth in Love with Daniel J Lewis

Wed, 19 Apr 2017 11:00:00 -0400

Have you wondered if you should speak up about your faith at work? Perhaps you know you should, but how do you do it in a gracious way?

In this week's episode, Daniel J. Lewis, founder of The Audacity to Podcast, shares an experience that serves as a model and reminder to us that silence has its own consequences.

How to Keep Your Job from Cheating Your Family with Andy Traub

Wed, 12 Apr 2017 11:00:00 -0400

You ever feel like there's not enough time to do the work you're called to do and to lead your family well? How do you choose between these important roles?

In this week's episode with Andy Traub, we discuss Andy Stanley's important book called When Work and Family Collide: Keeping Your Job from Cheating Your Family.

How to Get Out of Debt with Natchi Lazarus

Wed, 05 Apr 2017 11:00:00 -0400

Do you know anyone in debt? Dave Ramsey claims that 78% of Americans live paycheck-to-paycheck. That means if you're not in debt, you know a lot of people who are.

In this episode, Natchi Lazarus shares his personal story of how he got out of massive seemingly insurmountable debt. God met him when he reached his deepest moment of despair. If God can rescue Natchi from this deep pit, he can certainly deliver you.

Christ and Competition- How to Follow Christ While Staying On Top of Your Game with Jamie Swalm

Wed, 29 Mar 2017 11:00:00 -0400

Do you like to win at work? Can Christians come out on top at work and still have a Christlike mindset?

Join Jamie Swalm and Phil Mershon as they discuss competition, calling and the role of content and relationships to form our spiritual life. Stay to the end and find out if being called to be a pastor is a higher calling.

Developing a Ministry Mindset at Home and at Work with Tim Schmoyer

Wed, 22 Mar 2017 11:00:00 -0400

Do you have a discipleship plan for your family? Have you wondered if you have to be in full-time vocational ministry to be considered a pastor?

These are two hard questions that Tim Schmoyer has had to wrestle with. In this episode we explore these questions and more as we discuss what it looks like to be a full-time dad and to have a ministry where God plants you.

Moving Beyond the Silence of Adam with Don Hudson

Wed, 15 Mar 2017 11:00:00 -0400

How do you recover from a crisis of faith? Where do you turn when it seems you don’t have the resources to face the challenges in your life?

Join me in this interview with Don Michael Hudson, associate professor at King College in Bristol, TN, as we explore how God redeems us from our inclination toward passivity.

Leveraging Technology to Grow Your Faith with Paul Colligan

Wed, 08 Mar 2017 12:00:00 -0400

Do you look at technology as friend or foe? How about when it comes to its role in faith? In this episode, Paul Colligan, founder of HowtoPodcastBooks.com, discusses practical advice on how to leverage technology for you and your family. He reveals productivity hacks and some of his favorite tools.

Never Give Up- Learning to Fight for Life and Overcome Fear with Joel Boggess

Wed, 01 Mar 2017 11:32:21 -0400

How do you cope with seemingly insurmountable obstacles? What do you do when you literally can't speak up for yourselves? This episode features an interview with author and speaker, Joel Boggess, the host of the ReLaunch Show. We explore how God spared his life and the way he used others to rescue him. Those experiences shaped his desire to train others through physical training, life coaching and keynote speaking.

Do Good Stuff: The Power of Gratitude Being Present with Joel Comm

Sun, 19 Feb 2017 12:59:11 -0400

Have your wife or friends ever asked you to "be more present"? Some of us find that easy at work or at play, but men often struggle with this in relationships or at home. In this week's show, author and inventor Joel Comm describes the importance of gratitude and the dangers of not being present. It's a wake up call to all men, especially married men.

Finding Hope in the Shadow of Grief with Bill Hendricks

Sun, 12 Feb 2017 12:33:12 -0400

How do you respond when someone you love is taken away from you prematurely? What do you do when you suddenly find yourself alone? In this episode, Bill Hendricks, president of The Giftedness Center, explores his experience when his first wife died from cancer and he suddenly found himself a single father of three girls. We also explore the unique way God has designed us for our life work. Bill details his findings in his book The Person Called You.

Surviving the Wildfires of Our Lives with Cary Humphries

Sun, 05 Feb 2017 15:13:46 -0400

Have you ever been through a job loss? How about losing all your earthly possessions? How do you respond when you lose something so important? In this episode with Cary Humphries, former long-time employee with Cargill Inc. and former Chief Operating Officer for the Navigators, we explore how to not just survive but thrive through the unexpected wildfires that face us in life.

How to Stay Grounded in Tumultuous Times with Bernie Borges

Wed, 01 Feb 2017 13:48:54 -0400

Do you find yourself wondering how to keep your faith in tumultuous times? Where do you turn as you watch your parents grow old, your children make mistakes or your friends turn against you? In this episode, Bernie Borges, founder of Find and Convert and the host of the Social Business Engine Podcast, shares his story of coming to faith in his thirties. Be prepared to get practical and to wrestle with ways to keep our faith central, even as everything around us seems to shift and crumble.

How to Help Victims of Abuse with Dan Allender

Fri, 27 Jan 2017 05:41:17 -0400

Do you know someone who has experienced abuse? How about sexual abuse? Those two words might scare you, but the reality is that all of us know someone who has been abused. Perhaps it's even yourself. In this episode with Dr. Dan Allender, we explore how Christian men can step into these tough issues and help their friends and family by loving them well. There is great hope as we look to a Savior who has broad enough shoulders to carry our deepest burdens.

Hidden Agendas-How to Drop the Masks that Keep Us Apart with Steve Brown

Thu, 19 Jan 2017 14:17:56 -0400

You ever notice how easy it is for men to keep secrets from each other? The stories are rampant of men who have their lives fall apart because a carefully hidden secret all of a sudden becomes public. In this interview with Dr. Steve Brown, author and founder of KeyLife.org, we discuss why men hide from each other and how we can safely drop our masks so we can put our energy toward being used of God in each other's lives.

Discovering Faith in Unexpected Places with Mark Schaefer

Thu, 12 Jan 2017 05:32:07 -0400

This episode features a conversation with Mark W. Schaefer as we discuss topics as diverse as adoption, building a career during the recession and his transformative experience with Michelangelo's Pieta in the Vatican City. Mark teaches marketing at Rutgers University and is an author and consultant.

The books mentioned by Phil and Mark:

Jesus: A Pilgrimage by James Martin (the book Mark mentioned)

The Jesus I Never Knew by Philip Yancey (the book Phil mentioned)

How to Find Work You Love with Dan Miller

Tue, 03 Jan 2017 13:41:07 -0400

Do you wonder if you should actually enjoy your work or is work something we must endure so that we can do the things we truly enjoy? In this episode, I discuss these important matters with Dan Miller, an author and speaker and the founder of 48Days.com.

How to Overcome Life's Curve Balls with Ray Edwards

Tue, 03 Jan 2017 13:40:13 -0400

Do you wonder how you would handle a harsh medical diagnosis like Parkinson's before you turned 50? How do you keep pressing on and find the faith to believe? In this episode, I interview Ray Edwards, the copywriter, author, and podcaster from RayEdwards.com.

Why I Started Man in the Pew with Jeff Sieh

Tue, 03 Jan 2017 13:38:17 -0400

Wondering what the backstory is behind ManinthePew.com? This episode takes a brief look at the two-year process leading to the launch of this podcast. Jeff Sieh (founder of ManlyPinterestTips.com) interviews founder Phil Mershon as they explore the history and background for why this show is important to Phil and to many other men.