Overtime with Jim Putman

5 Questions: What Do We Do With Them Now? Parenting

5 Questions: What Do We Do With Them Now? Parenting

Introduction

In this episode of the Overtime Podcast, we continue our discussion from the Home Sphere series, tackling the question: What do I do with them now? Parenting is a journey filled with different seasons, challenges, and blessings. Our speakers dive into the biblical call to raise godly offspring and share practical insights on how to be present, intentional, and Christlike in our parenting. Whether you’re raising little ones, teenagers, or even mentoring young believers in the faith, this episode is packed with wisdom and encouragement.

 

Key Takeaways

1. The Biblical Call to Raise Godly Offspring

• Malachi 2 emphasizes that God’s desire for marriage is to produce godly offspring.
• As Christian parents, we must be intentional in shaping our children’s faith.
• Three key principles for parenting:
  • Be present.
  • Be intentional.
  • Be like Jesus.

2. Children as Arrows in the Spiritual Battle

• Psalm 127 describes children as arrows in the hands of a warrior.
• Parents are called to shape and equip their children to be spiritual warriors.
• Deuteronomy 6 provides a framework:
  • Love God with your whole being.
  • Teach your children about God’s Word and how He has worked in your life.
  • Live out your faith consistently.

3. The Importance of Loving Discipline

• Ephesians 6:4 warns against exasperating children but calls for training them in the Lord.
• Discipline should be motivated by love, just as God disciplines us.
• Every child is different and requires unique guidance and correction.

4. The Role of Marriage in Parenting

• Prioritizing marriage strengthens the foundation of parenting.
• A strong, Christ-centered marriage models love and security for children.
• The best way to love your children is to love your spouse well.

5. Trusting God with the Outcome

• Parents are responsible for their influence but not for their children's ultimate choices.
• Many parents struggle with regret, but God is a redeemer who can restore brokenness.
• Entrusting our children to God is an act of faith, knowing He loves them even more than we do.

6. Parenting in the Context of the Church

• Spiritual parenting extends beyond biological children—discipleship plays a key role.
• The church community provides support for single parents, step-parents, and those without children.
• Paul and Timothy’s relationship demonstrates how spiritual mentors can step into the gap.

 

Discussion Questions

1. How does Malachi 2 shape your understanding of parenting as a spiritual calling?
2. What are some practical ways you can be more present and intentional with your children?
3. In what ways do you see parenting as a form of spiritual warfare?
4. How can you ensure your discipline reflects God’s love rather than frustration or anger?
5. If you are struggling with regrets as a parent, how can you bring those before God and find hope?
6. How can the church community support those who are parenting in challenging circumstances?
7. What steps can you take to entrust your children to God while still fulfilling your role as a parent?

 

Action Steps

• Evaluate Your Parenting Approach – Are you being present, intentional, and Christlike? Identify one area to improve.
• Prioritize Your Marriage – If you’re married, invest in strengthening your relationship as a foundation for your family.
• Live Out Your Faith – Be transparent with your children about your walk with Christ, modeling repentance and dependence on God.
• Pray for Your Children – Lift them up daily, trusting God with their hearts and futures.
• Seek Support and Mentorship – Whether you need guidance or can mentor someone else, engage with your church community for wisdom and encouragement.
• Encourage Other Parents – Parenting is hard; find ways to support and speak life into fellow parents in your circle.

 

Closing Encouragement

Parenting is one of the greatest joys and challenges of life, but you are not alone in this journey. God has entrusted you with a sacred calling, and He will equip you for the task. Whether you are a parent, grandparent, mentor, or friend, your influence matters. Stand firm in your faith, lead with love, and trust God with the outcome.

Remember, even when we fall short, God’s grace is greater. He is the redeemer of all things, including our parenting. Keep pressing on, knowing that He is faithful to complete the good work He has begun in you and your children.

Thank you for joining us on this episode of the Overtime Podcast! Stay encouraged, stay faithful, and we’ll see you next time.

 

For more series resources go here: https://realliferesources.org/current-series/5-questions/

5 Questions: Marriage - How Two Become One

Introduction

In this episode of Real Life Overtime, we dive deeper into the weekend’s message about marriage as part of The Five Questions series. This conversation explores God’s design for marriage, how two become one, and what it means to live in a covenantal relationship rather than a contractual one. The discussion also touches on practical challenges like divorce, infidelity, and abuse, offering biblical wisdom on navigating these complex issues. Whether you're married, engaged, or single, this episode provides a rich foundation for understanding marriage through the lens of Scripture.

Key Takeaways

God’s Design for Marriage

• Marriage is a reflection of God’s covenant with His people, established in Genesis 2 and reaffirmed by Jesus in Matthew 19 and Ephesians 5.
• The goal of marriage is oneness—spiritually, emotionally, and physically—where two individuals become one.
• Unlike modern cultural views of marriage, which can be fluid and based on personal preference, biblical marriage is a lifelong covenant between a man, a woman, and God.

Covenantal vs. Contractual Marriage

• A contractual marriage is based on mutual distrust: “I will do my part as long as you do yours.”
• A covenantal marriage is based on mutual commitment: “I am in this no matter what.”
• Jesus modeled covenantal love—He remained committed to His people even when they failed Him.

Challenges in Marriage: Divorce, Infidelity, and Abuse

• Divorce: God’s desire is for marriage to be permanent, but Scripture acknowledges that brokenness sometimes leads to separation. Malachi 2:16 speaks to God’s heart on this matter, and Matthew 19 addresses the complexity of divorce.
• Infidelity: Betrayal in marriage is deeply painful, yet God’s grace and restoration are possible. Healing requires biblical counsel, repentance, and a willingness to rebuild trust.
• Abuse: Abuse is never acceptable in marriage. Those experiencing abuse should seek wise, biblical counsel and ensure their safety. Wise boundaries are essential, and healing comes through godly guidance and support.

Practical Wisdom for Dating and Engagement

• Don’t look for a spouse to “complete” you—only Christ can do that (Philippians 1:6).
• Prioritize finding someone who shares a biblical view of marriage and faith (2 Corinthians 6:14).
• Pre-marital counseling is invaluable for addressing expectations, communication, and family background.
• Focus on becoming the right person instead of just finding the right person.

Encouragement for Life Group Leaders

• Be a good listener—some couples in your group may be facing real struggles.
• Avoid trying to fix marriages in a single conversation—point them to biblical counsel and support.
• Pray before and after discussions, asking for God’s wisdom and grace.
• Encourage accountability and ongoing discipleship—marriage requires lifelong growth.

Discussion Questions

1. What does it mean for marriage to be a covenant rather than a contract?
2. How does your view of marriage align with God’s design in Genesis 2 and Matthew 19?
3. If you are married, in what ways can you cultivate oneness in your relationship?
4. How should the church support those who are struggling in their marriage?
5. For those who are dating or engaged, what biblical principles should guide their relationship?

Action Steps for This Week

• Reflect on your foundation: Is your marriage built on biblical principles or personal expectations?
• Seek biblical counsel: If you're struggling in marriage, don’t navigate it alone. Find a pastor or mentor to walk with you.
• Pray for your spouse: Instead of focusing on what they need to change, ask God how you can love them better.
• Encourage a young couple: If you’ve been married for a while, invest in those who are preparing for marriage.
• Commit to lifelong growth: Whether married or single, continue learning about God’s design for relationships.

Closing Encouragement

Marriage is one of the most beautiful and sacred relationships God has given us, but it’s also one of the most challenged. The enemy seeks to divide what God has joined together, but through Christ, we have the power to fight for our marriages. Whether you are married, preparing for marriage, or supporting those who are, remember that God’s grace is sufficient. Keep seeking His wisdom, leaning into community, and trusting that His plan is good.

Scripture References

• Genesis 2:18-25
• Matthew 19:3-9
• Ephesians 5:22-33
• Malachi 2:16
• 1 Corinthians 13:4-7
• Philippians 1:6
• 2 Corinthians 6:14

We’re so glad you joined us for this episode of Real Life Overtime. Next week, we’ll be tackling another important question—how do we disciple our children? See you then!

For more resources go to: https://realliferesources.org/

For marriage classes or counseling go to: https://www.reallifeministries.com/marriage

The Real War: The Sword of the Spirit

Introduction

In this episode, Craig Miles is joined by Wayne Burnham, Sam Meredith, and Blake Whiteman as they unpack the final piece of the armor of God—the sword of the Spirit (Ephesians 6:17)—and its connection to prayer (Ephesians 6:18). They explore how knowing and wielding God’s Word is essential in spiritual battle and how prayer aligns us with God’s power. If you’ve ever wrestled with staying in the Word, praying with confidence, or recognizing the enemy’s attacks, this episode is packed with wisdom, encouragement, and practical application.

Key Takeaways

1. The Sword of the Spirit: God’s Word as Our Weapon

• The sword of the Spirit is the only offensive weapon in the armor of God, representing Scripture’s power to combat the enemy’s lies.
• Jesus used the Word to defeat Satan’s temptations in Matthew 4, demonstrating that God’s truth is sufficient for spiritual warfare.
• Knowing Scripture isn't about memorizing references perfectly; it’s about understanding and applying God’s truth in the moment.

2. Praying in the Spirit: The Power of Prayer

• Ephesians 6:18 calls us to pray on all occasions with all kinds of prayers.
• Prayer is meant to be both personal and communal—it's not just about our needs but about standing together in battle.
• The way Jesus responded to the enemy wasn’t by asking for a supernatural intervention but by standing on God’s already revealed Word.

3. Growing in the Word & Prayer Together

• Spiritual growth isn’t meant to happen in isolation; we are called to “armor up” together as the Church.
• Battle buddies—trusted friends who pray and stand with us—are crucial in the Christian life.
• Being in God’s Word four or more times a week has been shown to significantly impact a believer’s life, leading to stronger faith, decreased anxiety, and increased confidence in sharing the gospel.

Discussion Questions for Groups or Personal Reflection

• What does your time in the Word look like each week? How can you grow in it?
• How have you seen Scripture provide strength or guidance in your life?
• Are you part of a community that encourages and prays for one another? Who are your “battle buddies”?
• Have you ever encountered misused Scripture? How can we ensure we handle God’s Word correctly?
• What steps can you take to develop a stronger, more consistent prayer life?

Action Steps for This Week

Engage with Scripture Daily – Commit to reading and reflecting on God’s Word at least four times this week.
Find a Battle Buddy – Connect with someone who will encourage you in the Word and prayer.
Pray Boldly – Instead of just asking for God’s help, pray with faith and expectancy, trusting in His power.
Use the Sword Wisely – When sharing Scripture, ensure you are speaking truth with love and understanding.
Join a Group – If you’re not already in a life group, find one! Spiritual battles aren’t meant to be fought alone.

Closing Encouragement

The armor of God isn’t just about defense—it’s about standing firm and advancing the Kingdom. The sword of the Spirit, God’s Word, is our weapon against the enemy’s lies, and prayer is our direct line to the power of God. As you move forward this week, stand on God’s truth, wield His Word with wisdom, and pray with boldness. You are not alone in this fight—let’s armor up and stand firm together!

Scripture References

• Ephesians 6:13-18 – The Armor of God
• Matthew 4:1-11 – Jesus Resisting Temptation with Scripture
• 2 Timothy 3:16-17 – The Power of God’s Word for Teaching and Training
• Hebrews 4:12 – The Word of God as a Double-Edged Sword
• Romans 10:17 – Faith Comes by Hearing the Word of God

See you next time on The Overtime Podcast!

The Real War: The Helmet of Salvation

Protecting Our Minds with the Truth of the Gospel

Introduction

In this episode, our speakers unpack the significance of the helmet of salvation from Ephesians 6, a crucial piece of the armor of God. The battle of spiritual warfare takes place in the mind, and our salvation gives us the confidence to stand firm against the enemy’s attacks. Whether it’s doubt, fear, shame, or discouragement, we must continually remind ourselves of the truth of the gospel—past, present, and future.

Through personal stories, biblical insight, and practical application, this discussion will equip you to take every thought captive, trust in God’s promises, and stand firm in your identity in Christ.

 

Key Takeaways

• The Helmet of Salvation Guards Our Minds
  • Salvation is not just about a one-time decision; it’s something we live in daily.
  • 1 Thessalonians 5:8 calls it the hope of salvation, which protects us from despair.
  • The enemy targets our thoughts—planting lies, shame, and confusion to shake our faith.
• The Enemy is a Confidence Killer
  • Satan’s goal is to make us doubt our salvation and our standing with God.
  • He whispers lies: "You're not really saved," "You're too messed up," or "A real Christian wouldn't struggle like this."
  • However, salvation is based on Jesus’ finished work, not our own performance.
• The Battle for the Mind is Real
  • 2 Corinthians 10:5 reminds us to take every thought captive and make it obedient to Christ.
  • Thoughts of fear, doubt, and condemnation must be confronted with biblical truth.
  • Even Jesus was tempted in His mind (Matthew 4), but He responded with Scripture.
• Our Salvation is Secure, but Sanctification is a Process
  • While justification (being made right with God) happens instantly, sanctification (growing in Christ) is a lifelong journey.
  • Struggles don’t mean we’ve lost our salvation—they mean we need to keep returning to God’s truth.
  • Romans 12:2 reminds us to be transformed by the renewing of our minds.
• Hope Anchors Us in the Battle
  • When trials come, we need to remind ourselves of the hope of salvation—not just for today, but for eternity.
  • Romans 8:29-30 reassures us that those God justifies, He will also glorify.
  • Fixing our eyes on the future promise of heaven helps us endure today's struggles.
  • You can find the resources Christian Putman mentioned here: https://instabio.cc/7020603mX5U4N

 

Discussion Questions

Use these questions to spark conversation in your small group or personal reflection:

• What lies does the enemy try to plant in your mind? How do you fight against them?
• How does knowing that salvation is a gift from God (not something we earn) impact the way you live?
• What practical ways can you ‘take your thoughts captive’ when doubt and fear creep in?
• How do you remind yourself daily of the truth of the gospel?
• Who in your life needs to hear the truth about salvation? How can you share it with them this week?

 

Action Steps for This Week

• Preach the Gospel to Yourself Daily
  • Write down key Bible verses about your identity in Christ and read them every morning.
  • Remind yourself: "I am saved, I am loved, I am secure in Christ."
• Be Honest About the Battle
  • Don’t fight alone—share your struggles with your small group or a trusted friend.
  • Encourage others by reminding them of God’s promises.
• Take Every Thought Captive
  • Recognize when negative thoughts don’t align with God’s truth.
  • Replace lies with Scripture, just as Jesus did when tempted.
• Fix Your Eyes on Eternity
  • When trials come, remind yourself: This battle is temporary. My future in Christ is secure.
  • Read passages like Romans 8 and Revelation 21 to refresh your hope.

 

Closing Encouragement

The battle for your mind is real, but you are not fighting alone. God has given you the helmet of salvation to protect you. Stand firm in the truth that your salvation is secure in Christ, and let that assurance guard your thoughts, emotions, and decisions.

No matter what thoughts or struggles come your way this week, remember: You are loved, you are chosen, and you are victorious in Jesus. Keep pressing forward in faith!

 

Scripture References

• Ephesians 6:10-17 – The Armor of God
• 1 Thessalonians 5:8 – The Hope of Salvation
• 2 Corinthians 10:5 – Taking Thoughts Captive
• Romans 12:2 – Renewing Our Minds
• Matthew 4:1-11 – Jesus Resisting Temptation with Scripture
• Romans 8:29-30 – Our Future Hope in Christ

 

Join us next week as we wrap up The Real War series with a powerful discussion on The Sword of the Spirit and the Power of Prayer. See you then!

The Real War: The Shield of Faith

Podcast Show Notes: The Real War – Week 5: The Shield of Faith

Welcome back to Real Life Overtime! This week, we continue our series, The Real War, by exploring the Shield of Faith from Ephesians 6:16. Faith is more than belief—it’s an active trust in God that protects us from the enemy’s attacks. The enemy uses doubt, deception, and discouragement like fiery arrows, aiming to shake our confidence in God. But when we take up the shield of faith—especially together as the body of Christ—we can stand firm and overcome.

In this episode, the teaching team unpacks the biblical concept of faith, the nature of spiritual warfare, and how we can help one another stand strong.

Key Takeaways

The Shield of Faith Protects Us from the Enemy’s Attacks

• In ancient times, Roman shields were often soaked in water to extinguish flaming arrows.
• Similarly, when our faith is saturated in God’s Word, it has the power to quench the enemy’s lies and deception.
• Faith is not just belief in God but trust in Him and His promises.

The Enemy’s Primary Tactic is Doubt

• Satan attacked Eve in the Garden with the question, “Did God really say…?” (Genesis 3:1).
• He tempted Jesus in the wilderness by questioning His identity: “If you are the Son of God…” (Matthew 4:3).
• Doubt itself isn’t sin, but when it leads to unbelief and rebellion, it becomes dangerous.

True Faith is More than Just Intellectual Agreement

• Many people claim to have faith because they believe in God, but even demons believe in God (James 2:19).
• True, saving faith is not just belief—it’s trust and obedience.
• Like sitting in a chair, faith is demonstrated when we actively place our weight on God and His promises.

Faith is Meant to Be Strengthened in Community

• In battle, Roman soldiers locked their shields together to form a protective wall.
• When our faith is weak, we need others to come alongside us and help us stand firm.
• Sharing struggles, doubts, and victories within a trusted community strengthens the whole body of Christ.

Faith Grows Through Trials

• James 1:2-4 reminds us that trials test and strengthen our faith, producing perseverance and maturity.
• A strong faith isn’t shiny and new—it bears the marks of battle, with dents, scratches, and scars.
• We are called to stand firm, not retreat, because there is no armor for the back (Ephesians 6:13).

 

Discussion Questions

• How do you personally define faith? – Is it just believing God exists, or is it trusting Him with your life?
• Where is the enemy attacking your faith right now? – Are you struggling with doubt, fear, or discouragement?
• How do you respond to doubt? – Do you press into God, or do you isolate yourself?
• How can we better support one another in faith? – What does it look like to "link shields" with those in your community?
• Can you recall a time when God strengthened your faith through a trial? – How did He reveal His faithfulness?

 

Action Steps for This Week

1. Soak Your Faith in God’s Word

• Just as the Roman shield was soaked in water, soak your faith in Scripture.
• Set aside time daily to read and meditate on God’s promises.

2. Stand Firm Against Doubt

• Recognize when the enemy is trying to plant seeds of doubt.
• Replace lies with the truth of God’s Word and pray for strength.

3. Lock Shields with Others

• Don’t fight alone—reach out to a trusted friend or small group.
• Encourage someone who is struggling with doubt or spiritual warfare.

4. Share Your Faith Journey

• Be vulnerable about your doubts and struggles, creating a safe space for others to do the same.
• Remember that faith isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about trusting the One who does.

5. Remember God’s Faithfulness

• Reflect on past victories and how God has carried you through trials.
• Journal or share testimonies of God’s faithfulness with your group.

 

Closing Encouragement

Faith is not about having a perfect, doubt-free life—it’s about standing firm in God’s truth even when you can’t see the full picture. The enemy will try to make you doubt your identity, your salvation, and God’s promises. But God has already won the battle!

As you go through this week, take up the shield of faith. Soak it in Scripture, lock arms with others, and press on with confidence. You are not alone—God is with you, and your church family is standing beside you. Keep pressing on, Church!

 

Scripture References

• Ephesians 6:10-18 – The Armor of God
• Genesis 3:1 – Satan’s deception in the Garden
• Matthew 4:1-11 – Jesus’ temptation in the wilderness
• James 1:2-4 – Trials produce perseverance
• James 2:19 – Even demons believe in God
• Jude 20-23 – Build up your faith, rescue those in doubt

 

 

The Real War: The Shoes of the Gospel of Peace

Podcast Show Notes: The Real War – Week 4: The Shoes of the Gospel of Peace

In this episode of Real Life Overtime, our speakers dive deeper into this weekend’s message on spiritual warfare, focusing on the shoes of the gospel of peace from Ephesians 6:15. They unpack how this piece of God’s armor helps us stand firm in faith while also being ready to advance with the good news of Jesus.

This conversation challenges us to rethink what true biblical peace looks like—not as the absence of conflict, but as a firm confidence in Christ that sustains us in the battle. Whether you’re leading a small group, navigating personal struggles, or looking for ways to share Jesus with others, this discussion is filled with practical insights on standing strong and stepping forward in faith.

Key Takeaways:

1. The Shoes of the Gospel of Peace Provide Stability and Readiness:

• Roman soldiers' shoes had cleats to stand firm in battle and move forward when needed.
• The gospel of peace anchors us in God’s truth while preparing us to go and share His love.

Biblical Peace is Confidence in Christ, Not the Absence of Conflict:

• Peace doesn’t mean avoiding struggles—it means trusting God in the struggle.
• Jesus promised His peace, which sustains us even when life feels chaotic (John 14:27).

The Enemy Attacks at the Foundation:

• Just as an army targets its enemy’s footing, Satan attacks our faith, identity, and trust in God’s promises.
• Standing firm in scripture and prayer is how we resist spiritual attacks.

We Are Called to Stand Firm and Move Forward:

• The armor of God isn’t just about defense—it’s also about taking ground for the Kingdom.
• Living out the gospel means actively sharing it with others through our words and actions.

Knowing and Trusting God's Word is Essential:

• Jesus responded to temptation with scripture (Matthew 4:1-11).
• To stand firm, we must know the Word, believe it, and live by it.

Discussion Questions for Groups or Personal Reflection:

1. What foundation are you standing on? – Are you rooted in the gospel, or relying on something else for stability?
2. Where is the enemy attacking your peace? – What lies or struggles try to shake your confidence in God?
3. Are you ready to share the gospel? – How can you actively live out and communicate your faith this week?
4. How do you define peace? – Is it based on circumstances, or on Jesus’ promise of peace that surpasses understanding?
5. What role does scripture play in your spiritual battles? – Are you equipping yourself with God’s Word daily?

Action Steps for This Week:

1. Evaluate Your Foundation:

• Take time to reflect on what you’re standing on. If it’s not the gospel, what needs to shift?

Be Intentional in Spiritual Warfare:

• When faced with doubt or attack, respond with scripture just as Jesus did.

Look for Opportunities to Share the Gospel:

• Who in your life needs to hear about the hope and peace found in Jesus? Pray for boldness to share.

Encourage Someone in Their Faith:

• The gospel isn’t just for us—it’s meant to be shared! Encourage a friend or group member with God’s truth.

Armor Up Together:

• Spiritual battles aren’t meant to be fought alone. Connect with a small group, mentor, or trusted friend to stand firm together.

 

Closing Encouragement:

Putting on the full armor of God is a daily decision. The shoes of the gospel of peace remind us that we are anchored in Christ and called to move forward in faith. As you go through this week, stand firm in His truth, trust in His peace, and be ready to share His love with those around you.

Remember, you’re not fighting alone—God is with you, and His victory is already yours. Let’s keep pressing on together, Church family!

 

Scripture References:

• Ephesians 6:10-15
• John 14:27
• Isaiah 52:7
• Romans 10:15
• Matthew 4:1-11

We’ll see you next time for another episode of Real Life Overtime!

 

 

The Real War: The Breastplate of Righteousness

In this episode of Real Life Overtime, Sam Meredith, Christian Putman, and Titus Ledger dive deeper into this weekend’s message on spiritual warfare, focusing on the breastplate of righteousness from Ephesians 6. They discuss how this vital piece of God’s armor protects our hearts from the enemy's deception and accusations, encourages us to live out our new identity in Christ, and helps us stay grounded in truth during life’s battles.

Whether you're leading a small group, nurturing your family, or navigating your personal walk with Jesus, this conversation is filled with practical insights on recognizing lies, rejecting condemnation, and standing firm in Christ’s victory.
 
Key Takeaways:
1. We Fight From Victory, Not For Victory:
o The battle is already won because of Christ’s finished work. Our role is to stand firm in the victory He secured.

2. The Breastplate of Righteousness Protects Our Hearts:
o Christ’s righteousness covers us completely, giving us the confidence to resist lies like "you're worthless" or "you can't be used by God."
o Living out righteousness involves walking in obedience, not to earn salvation but as a response to the worth Christ has placed on us.

3. The Enemy's Two Primary Tactics:
o Deception: Lies that distort God’s truth.
o Accusation: Condemnation that challenges our identity in Christ.
o Knowing God’s Word and involving the church community are essential in discerning truth and rejecting lies.

4. Conviction vs. Condemnation:
o Conviction is specific, Spirit-led, and draws us back to God.
o Condemnation is vague, identity-focused, and seeks to separate us from God and others.

5. The Power of God’s Promises:
o God's Word must be our filter for truth. Feelings and circumstances can mislead, but His promises are steadfast anchors for our souls.

6. Life in Community:
o We aren’t meant to fight alone. Vulnerability and humility within small groups or family conversations create opportunities for encouragement, truth-telling, and freedom.
 
Discussion Questions for Groups or Personal Reflection:
1. What lies or accusations have you struggled to recognize as the enemy’s tactics? How can you combat them with God’s truth?

2. Are there areas in your life where your motivation for obedience is guilt rather than gratitude? How can you shift your perspective?

3. What’s the difference between conviction and condemnation in your life? How can you respond to each in a way that strengthens your relationship with God?

4. What role does community play in helping you stand firm against spiritual attacks? Who can you invite into your journey this week to encourage or hold you accountable?

5. How can you practically "armor up" this week? What steps can you take to remind yourself of your identity in Christ daily?
 
Action Steps for This Week:
1. Reflect on Your Identity in Christ:
o Use the "My Identity in Christ" resource (available from the Post Falls team) to meditate on God’s promises. Preach the gospel to yourself every day.

2. Engage Your Group in Honest Conversations:
o Create a safe space for group members to share areas where they’ve believed lies or struggled with condemnation. Encourage vulnerability and support.

3. Be Intentional with God’s Word:
o Spend time in Scripture daily, focusing on passages that reaffirm God’s love, forgiveness, and truth. Let these promises anchor your thoughts.

4. Speak Life Into Others:
o Pay attention to how you speak to those around you (family, friends, coworkers). Avoid words that condemn or accuse, and instead, point to their God-given identity and worth.

5. Armor Up Together:
o Don’t fight alone. Share with a trusted friend or group leader where you're struggling to discern lies or truth and invite them to pray with and for you.
 
Closing Encouragement:
Putting on the armor of God is an active, daily choice. The breastplate of righteousness reminds us of who we are in Christ and empowers us to live in the freedom He purchased for us. As you go through the week, stand firm in His truth, reject the lies of the enemy, and press into community for encouragement and strength. Remember, you’re not fighting alone—God is with you, and His victory is already yours. Stay in the fight, Church family. Let’s armor up together and continue to shine His light in the darkness!
 
Scripture References:
• Ephesians 6:10-14
• 2 Timothy 2:3-4
• 1 John 3:20
• Psalm 33
We’ll see you next time for another episode of Real Life Overtime!

 

Identity in Christ: 

 

 

The Real War: The Belt of Truth

Podcast Show Notes: 

Welcome to this week’s episode of the Overtime Podcast, where we dive deeper into our series, The Real War. This week, we explore spiritual warfare and the essential role of the "belt of truth" in the armor of God. As believers, we’re called to stand firm against the enemy's lies, and this episode unpacks what it means to live in truth—both intellectually and practically. We discuss how truth anchors the full armor of God and equips us to resist the enemy, live transparently, and support one another in the body of Christ.
 
Key Points from the Episode
1. The Role of Truth in Spiritual Warfare:

o The "belt of truth" is foundational, anchoring the other pieces of God’s armor. Truth corresponds to reality from God’s perspective and is both objective and absolute.

o The enemy operates through lies, often blending truth with falsehood to deceive us. Knowing and living by God’s truth helps us resist these attacks.

2. Names of the Enemy:

o The enemy’s names in Scripture—accuser, tempter, deceiver, and more—reveal his tactics. Recognizing these names helps us understand how he operates and resist his schemes.

o Lies manifest through temptation and accusation, creating a cycle designed to separate us from God and others.

3. Living Out Truth:

o Living in truth means not only understanding Scripture but abiding in Christ and living transparently with others.

o Truthfulness in relationships fosters a culture of honesty, vulnerability, and healing within the body of Christ.

4. The Challenge of Truthfulness:

o Fear often keeps us from being truthful with others—fear of rejection, judgment, or being burdensome.

o Spiritual growth happens when we walk in the light together, sharing our struggles with trusted believers who can provide support and wise counsel.

5. Leadership in Truth:

o Life group leaders are called to model vulnerability and truthfulness. By sharing their own struggles, they create a culture where group members feel safe to be open and honest.
 

Discussion Questions
1. How does the "belt of truth" provide a foundation for the other pieces of God’s armor?

2. In what ways have you experienced the enemy’s tactics of temptation or accusation in your life? How did you respond?

3. What are some practical ways to grow in discerning truth from lies in your daily life?

4. How can you cultivate a culture of truthfulness in your relationships, whether in your family, life group, or workplace?

5. What fears might be holding you back from living more transparently? How can you address those fears in a godly way?
 
Actionable Next Steps
1. Commit to Studying the Word: Spend time daily in Scripture to grow in your understanding of God’s truth and become familiar with His voice.

2. Build Relationships of Trust: Identify trusted individuals in your life with whom you can share openly and seek wise counsel.

3. Practice Vulnerability in Community: If you’re part of a life group, challenge yourself to model truthfulness and encourage others to do the same.

4. Recognize and Resist the Enemy: When faced with thoughts of temptation or condemnation, take those thoughts captive and replace them with God’s truth (2 Corinthians 10:5).

5. Pray for Discernment: Ask God to help you distinguish between conviction from the Holy Spirit, which leads to repentance, and condemnation from the enemy, which leads to shame.
 
Closing Paragraph

As we journey through this series on spiritual warfare, let’s remember that truth is our foundation. Standing firm in God’s truth protects us from the enemy’s lies and enables us to live with transparency and strength in community. Join us next week as we explore the next piece of the armor, the breastplate of righteousness. Until then, let’s continue to grow together in Christ, walking in the light and standing firm in the battle. God bless you!