Overtime with Jim Putman

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!
 

 

Overcome: Our Testimony

 
Real Life Overtime Podcast Show Notes 
"Overcome: The Power of Testimony"
 
Introduction
Welcome to the Real Life Overtime Podcast! This week, we dive into the Overcome series, reflecting on the power of testimony and its role in our journey of faith. Our speakers—Blake, Titus, Gabe, along with our host Jim Putman - share insights from messages delivered across Real Life’s campuses, all centered on Revelation 12:11: “They overcame by the blood of the Lamb and the word of their testimony.” Whether you’re a group leader, a new believer, or someone seeking encouragement, this episode reminds us of the transformative power of the gospel and the personal stories of God’s grace in our lives.
 
Key Points Discussed

1. The Role of Testimony in Overcoming
o We overcome through the blood of Jesus and by sharing our testimony of what He’s done in our lives. Blake highlights 1 John 5:11-12, emphasizing that our testimony reflects both who we are in Christ and how we live.

2. Testimony as Witness
o Titus explored John 9, sharing the story of the blind man whose simple testimony—“I was blind, but now I see”—shows that even short, authentic accounts of Jesus’ work are powerful.

3. Cracks That Shine Light
o Using a visual of a broken mug, Titus also illustrates how God’s grace shines brightest through our cracks and failures. Our testimony isn’t about perfection; it’s about God’s redemptive power.

4. Living and Sharing the Gospel
o Gabe stressed the importance of walking the talk, being ready to share, and speaking up about our faith. He shared practical tips, like praying for opportunities and being present in everyday moments, such as at the gym, to witness to others.

5. Collective Testimony as the Church
o Jim emphasized the importance of community. Our testimony isn’t just individual but collective as we live out Acts 2:42–47, growing in unity, love, and discipleship.

6. Facing the Accuser
o Both before and after coming to Christ, the enemy accuses us. Yet, as Jim reminds us, our testimony points to Jesus as the hero of our story, not ourselves.
 
Discussion Questions
1. What specific moments in your life reflect God’s transformative power?
2. How can you intentionally share your testimony in everyday conversations?
3. What does it mean to “walk the talk” in your personal life and relationships?
4. How has being part of a Christian community strengthened your faith and testimony?
5. How do you combat feelings of inadequacy when sharing your story?
 
Action Steps
• Identify & Pray: Identify someone in your life who doesn’t know Jesus. Commit to praying for them daily.

• Reflect & Share: Spend time reflecting on your testimony. Write down key moments where God’s grace was evident and share it in your group.

• Live Intentionally: Be mindful of living out the gospel in your daily interactions—at work, home, or even the gym.

• Encourage Others: Share words of encouragement with someone struggling in their faith journey.
 
Final Encouragement
As we close out this Overcome series, remember that your testimony is a vital part of God’s work in reconciling the world to Himself. Whether your story feels big or small, it has the power to inspire and point others to Jesus. Let’s live out our testimonies boldly and authentically, supporting each other as the family of God. God bless you, and we’ll see you next week on the Overtime Podcast!
 

 

Jesus Is: Fulfillment

In this week's episode of the Overtime Podcast, Chris Short sits down with campus pastors Gabe, Jim, and Blake to dive deeper into the messages shared across campuses. The focus: "Jesus is Fulfillment"—the central theme of the weekend's teaching. Together, they unpack how Jesus fulfills prophecy, the law, and the personal longing in each of our lives. The discussion offers encouragement, practical insights, and a timely reminder as we head into the Christmas season: Jesus alone is the fulfillment we seek.

Key Discussion Points
1. Jesus Fulfills Prophecy

• Jesus' coming wasn't a coincidence; it was foretold in the Old Testament through countless prophecies.
• They highlight the astronomical probability of Jesus fulfilling even a small number of these prophecies, proving He is God.
• The Wise Men’s Example: They were looking for the Messiah because of ancient prophecy. What you look for, you will find.
• Encouragement: Let’s ask ourselves this Christmas season—What are we looking for?

2. Jesus Fulfills the Law

• The team explains that Jesus didn’t abolish the law but fulfilled it perfectly.
• While we could never meet God's holy standard (613 laws!), Jesus did what we couldn’t do: He lived a sinless life and became the perfect sacrifice.
• As Paul writes, the law reveals our need for a Savior, and Jesus fulfilled that need for us.
• Freedom Through Grace: We no longer rely on our own efforts to gain God’s favor.

3. Jesus Fulfills Our Lives

• Fulfillment isn’t found in circumstances, possessions, or relationships. True fulfillment is only found in Jesus.
• John 10:10 – "I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full."
• They give us the challenge: What are you searching for this season? A tree full of presents or a life full of Jesus?
• Jeremiah 29:13 reminds us, "You will seek me and find me when you search for me with all your heart."

4. The Gift That Must Be Received

• Salvation is the ultimate gift, but a gift is only meaningful if it’s received.
• The team emphasized how many people leave the “perfect gift” unwrapped, missing out on the life-changing relationship Jesus offers.
• No matter what we’ve done or where we are, this gift is for everyone.

5. Encouragement for Those Struggling

• Life’s challenges can leave us feeling unfulfilled.
• They addressed those who say, “I tried Christianity, but it didn’t work for me.”
• They reminded listeners that fulfillment doesn’t mean an absence of struggles but the presence of Jesus in those struggles.
• Colossians warns us against hollow and deceptive philosophies; only Jesus satisfies our thirsty souls.
• John 6 – Jesus is the bread of life; when we seek Him, we’ll never hunger or thirst spiritually.

6. Confidence in God’s Faithfulness

• God’s fulfillment of prophecy, His covenant promises, and His work through Jesus give us confidence in His faithfulness for the future.
• Revelation 21:5 – "I am making everything new."
• Christmas is just the beginning: Emmanuel, God with us, leads us to eternal hope and confidence.

Discussion Questions
Use these questions to guide group discussions or personal reflection:

1. What are you looking for this Christmas season? Are you searching for fulfillment in things other than Jesus?

2. How does knowing Jesus fulfilled the law change the way you view God’s grace and your relationship with Him?

3. What does it mean for you to live a life "full of Jesus"? What needs to shift in your focus to experience this?

4. Have you "unwrapped" the gift of salvation, or are you leaving it under the tree? What steps can you take to fully receive and walk in this gift?

5. When you feel unfulfilled or discouraged, how can the truth of Jesus as the "bread of life" encourage you?
 
Practical Next Steps
• Seek Jesus First: This Christmas, focus on seeking Jesus above all else (Jeremiah 29:13). Spend intentional time in prayer and Scripture.

• Reflect on Fulfillment: Write down areas where you’ve sought fulfillment outside of Christ and pray for Him to be the center.

• Encourage Others: Share the gift of Jesus with friends, family, or neighbors this season. Invite someone to Christmas services or share your faith story.

• Download the Real Life Ministries App: Use the new app to access resources, messages, and tools to support your spiritual growth.
 
Closing Thoughts
This episode served as a powerful reminder that fulfillment—true, lasting, abundant life—is only found in Jesus. As you navigate the expectations and busyness of the Christmas season, don’t leave the perfect gift unwrapped. Jesus is the fulfillment of prophecy, the law, and the deepest needs of your heart.
 
Resources Mentioned:
• Real Life Ministries App – Available now for tools, messages, and more.
• Website: realliferesources.org

Next Episode: The Overtime Podcast will return in 2025 with a new series to kick off the new year. Until then, have a Merry Christmas and a blessed holiday season!

Jesus Is: God

Welcome to the Real Life Overtime Podcast! In this episode, we dive deeper into the first message of our Christmas series, Jesus Is..., exploring the foundational truth that Jesus is God. Join Sam Meredith and Titus Leger, Josh Austin, and Blake Whiteman as they unpack this essential doctrine and discuss its significance for our faith, our lives, and this Christmas season.
 
Key Points
1. Understanding Jesus as God
The pastors clarify the doctrinal foundation of Jesus' divinity, rooted in the Bible’s teaching of the triune God.

Jesus' divinity is evident throughout Scripture, affirmed by His claims, His acts, and His acceptance of worship.

Believing Jesus is God should transform how we celebrate Christmas, worship, and live.

2. Seeing Jesus Clearly

Josh illustrated how our view of Jesus might be blurry, like a pixelated image, until we truly grasp His identity as God.

He challenged listeners to answer the question, “Who do you say Jesus is?” emphasizing the life-changing impact of that answer.

3. Jesus: The Eternal Word

Titus emphasized that the story of Jesus begins not at the manger but in eternity, as the eternal Word who created all things.

John 1:1-5 was central in unpacking Jesus' divine attributes: eternal, Creator, and life-giver.

4. Why Jesus’ Divinity Matters

Without Jesus being God, Christianity loses its foundation. His divinity is crucial for:
   The power of His sacrifice to atone for humanity’s sin.
   The reality of the resurrection and the hope it provides.
   Transforming lives through His divine authority and grace.

5. Practical Applications for the Christmas Season

Advent Traditions: Engage in family activities like Advent calendars, reading the Gospel of Luke, or baking a Jesus-themed birthday cake to focus on Him.

(Find the Real Life Advent Calendar here: https://realliferesources.org/current-series/jesus-is/ )

Knowing God’s Word: Spend intentional time in Scripture to deepen understanding of who Jesus is.

Being Witnesses: Live out the truth of Jesus’ divinity in work, family gatherings, and community interactions.
 
Discussion Questions
1. How does the truth that Jesus is God change how you view and celebrate Christmas?
2. What steps can you take to clearly articulate why you believe Jesus is God?
3. In what ways can you model Mary’s humble response, “I am the Lord’s servant,” this season?
4. How can you share the evidence of Jesus’ divinity with gentleness and respect, especially during family gatherings?
 
Actionable Next Steps

• Study the Bible: Read through the Gospel of Luke (one chapter per day) as a countdown to Christmas. Reflect on what it reveals about Jesus.

• Engage in Apologetics: Visit https://realliferesources.org/ to explore materials that help answer questions about Jesus’ divinity.

• Practice Intentional Living: Look for ways to reflect Christ in your interactions, whether at work, home, or holiday events.

• Family Focus: Start a Christ-centered tradition, like baking a symbolic birthday cake for Jesus or discussing His significance during family time.
 
Closing

This Christmas season, let’s fix our eyes on Jesus, the eternal Word who became flesh. He is God, and His divinity transforms everything about our faith and life. Stay rooted in the Word, serve the Lord with humility, and shine His light in every corner of your life. Thanks for joining us, and don’t forget to check out Real Life Resources for more tools to help you grow in your walk with Christ. Merry Christmas!

Made For These Days: Steward Our Health

Welcome to Real Life Overtime, where the sermon doesn’t end on Sunday! This week, Craig Miles is joined by Pat Lessard and Jim Blazin for a deep dive into the topic of stewarding our health. It’s a comprehensive conversation touching on physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Often overlooked in stewardship discussions, this episode highlights how caring for our health is a key part of honoring God. Join us as we unpack what it means to navigate these areas faithfully, no matter your starting point.
 
Key Points Covered:
1. Holistic Health Is Complex and Interconnected:

• Health involves physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual components that influence one another deeply.
• Life experiences, family history, and personal challenges shape how we approach health in these areas.
• It’s essential to avoid comparisons to others and focus on faithfulness in our unique circumstances.

2. The Role of Hardship in Growth:

• God uses trials and struggles to refine us and teach stewardship.
• Scripture encourages embracing challenges as a way to grow in resilience and faith.

3. Practical Stewardship Requires Action:

• Stewardship isn’t formulaic; it involves intentional, often challenging steps.
• Practicing disciplines like taking thoughts captive (2 Corinthians 10) or abiding in Christ (John 15) keeps us rooted in truth.

4. Small, Sustainable Steps Matter:

• A simple walk, time in God’s Word, or moments of gratitude can recalibrate your mind, emotions, and spirit.
• Small practices like journaling or reframing thoughts can lead to significant mental and emotional health benefits.

5. Recognizing the Spiritual Battle:

• Satan thrives in imbalance, aiming to distort our health and derail our focus.
• Staying connected to God and His truth through scripture and prayer is vital for balanced living.
   

Discussion Questions:

1. How have you seen the interconnectedness of physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual health in your own life?

2. What steps can you take to address an area of health you’ve been neglecting?

3. Reflect on a recent hardship: How might God be using it to grow your stewardship or deepen your faith?

4. How does the practice of gratitude shift your perspective during challenging times?
 
Action Steps:
Gratitude Practice: Spend a few minutes each night thanking God for three things from your day.

Take a Walk: Commit to a 5-15 minute walk this week to clear your mind, pray, or reflect.

Daily Scripture Focus: Choose a passage to meditate on and pray through, even on busy days.

Reframe Your Thoughts: Use a tool like journaling or an app to identify and combat cognitive distortions with God’s truth. (You can find the one Pat mentions here: https://www.thinkwithclarity.com/ )
 
Closing:

Stewarding our health—physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual—is part of honoring God with all He’s entrusted to us. While perfection isn’t the goal, faithfulness is. As you step into this week, remember to abide in Christ, take small steps, and trust God’s process of growth through life’s complexities.

Thank you for joining us for this episode of Real Life Overtime. See you next time as we continue to explore what it means to live out our faith every day!