Does your church need a mentor to help you find fresh ways to reach out to your community with the healing message of Christ?
For more information: thebiblespeakstoyou.com/speaking-bible-workshops

•••••••••

289 – What can you learn from women leaders at church?

What is your response to some Christians who insist that women should not be in any leadership roles in church?

This is more prevalent than you may be aware of. And these folks quote a few Bible passages, sometimes way out of context to support their convictions.

But the Bible is full of women who were in leadership roles, both in the Old and New Testaments. 

In this week's episode, we’re going to look specifically at Miriam and explore how she used her God-appointed role to lead and bless others.

• She saw an opportunity to minister to others in a way no one else could
• She didn't ask permission, she acted
• She had to learn not to compare her leadership role with anyone else's
• She learned to focus on her purpose no matter what

Just as Miriam discovered, who you are and what you are capable of are gifts from God. These are your superpowers.  

How will you use them to glorify God and encourage others to do the same?

Previous episodes mentioned:
Episode 88: What it Takes to Be a Prophet
Episode 158: Can We Be Modern Day Prophets?
Episode 159: Following Wise women in the Bible
Episode 228: Women Leaders in the New Testament
Episode 259 Deborah: The Judge and Prophetess 

Show notes:
Full transcript and Bible quote

Text me your questions or comments.

Support the show

If you enjoy the podcast, please rate and leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

__________________
James Early, the Jesus Mindset Coach, is a Bible teacher, speaker, and podcaster. His focus is on getting back to the original Christianity of Jesus by embracing the mindset of Christ in daily life.

• Reach out today if you need a speaker or Bible workshop for your church or organization (online and in person)
• Subscribe to the podcast (and get your copy of Praying with the Mindset of Jesus)
• Make a donation to support the show
• Schedule a free one hour coaching call to see if the Jesus Mindset Coaching program is a good fit for you
• Contact James here
  
  

Does your church need a mentor to help you find fresh vision for ways to reach out to your community with the healing message of Christ? For more information: thebiblespeakstoyou.com/speaking-bible-workshops

•••••••••••••••••

288 – Jesus's death on the cross cannot by itself save you from your sins

I know, this is a pretty bold statement. But have you ever noticed how lots of Christians focus on the crucifixion as the basis for their salvation?

But then at Easter, they suddenly start talking about the resurrection, as if they just discovered how important it is.

The whole message of Easter is that Jesus rose from the grave. That should be the focus for the entire year, not just at Easter.

In this episode, I challenge some traditional Christian talking points:

• Without the resurrection your faith is useless 
• Without the resurrection your preaching is worthless
• Without the resurrection you're still in your sins
• The crucifixion, by itself, is not enough to save you
• It's not the literal, physical blood of Jesus that saves you from your sins

Don't get me wrong, the crucifixion of Jesus is incredibly important, because without it, there would be no resurrection. But without the resurrection, Paul says you're still in your sins.

As Christians, we need to shift our gaze from looking just through the lens of the cross to looking through the lens of the resurrection.

Then we'll see Jesus's risen glory everywhere we go and in everything we do.

Previous episode mentioned:
Episode 76: The Atonement of Christ

Show notes:
For a full transcript and Bible quotes: thebiblespeakstoyou.com/288

Text me your questions or comments.

Support the show

If you enjoy the podcast, please rate and leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

__________________
James Early, the Jesus Mindset Coach, is a Bible teacher, speaker, and podcaster. His focus is on getting back to the original Christianity of Jesus by embracing the mindset of Christ in daily life.

• Reach out today if you need a speaker or Bible workshop for your church or organization (online and in person)
• Subscribe to the podcast (and get your copy of Praying with the Mindset of Jesus)
• Make a donation to support the show
• Schedule a free one hour coaching call to see if the Jesus Mindset Coaching program is a good fit for you
• Contact James here
  
  

287 – Have you ever been a stranger in a foreign country?

You didn't speak the language. You couldn’t read any of the signs, you couldn’t understand what people are saying. You don’t understand the customs.  

And you felt lost or confused by what was going on around you.

Or maybe you've been in a strange location and felt out of place.

Then, all of a sudden, someone helps you get where you're going or explains what's going on. A simple act of hospitality makes all the difference.

There’s a great need in today’s world to be hospitable to strangers, on an individual and a collective basis, and not just strangers from foreign countries. 

We need to be aware of the strangers in our midst as well. 

This week's episode shares several examples in the Bible of helping, even loving strangers, that bring healing and comfort and 

• Abraham and Sarah 
• Abigail's generosity compared to her husband's lack of hospitality 
• Elijah and Elijah
• Jesus of course
• Peter and John

One Jewish scholar points out that in the Hebrew Scriptures there is one verse commanding us to love our neighbors but 36 places that command us to love strangers. 

It’s hard to do for a variety of reasons. But it becomes easier when you've been a stranger somewhere, whether in a foreign country, a different city or neighborhood, a church, or a new job.

When you've been an outsider, it often gives you empathy for those who may feel they’re on the outside.

Jesus didn't have a home, but he made people feel at home and helped them realized they part of God's family, never a stranger.

You can do the same. This week treat a stranger with love and see what happens.

Show notes:
Full transcript and Bible quotes: thebiblespeakstoyou.com/287.

Text me your questions or comments.

Support the show

If you enjoy the podcast, please rate and leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

__________________
James Early, the Jesus Mindset Coach, is a Bible teacher, speaker, and podcaster. His focus is on getting back to the original Christianity of Jesus by embracing the mindset of Christ in daily life.

• Reach out today if you need a speaker or Bible workshop for your church or organization (online and in person)
• Subscribe to the podcast (and get your copy of Praying with the Mindset of Jesus)
• Make a donation to support the show
• Schedule a free one hour coaching call to see if the Jesus Mindset Coaching program is a good fit for you
• Contact James here
  
  

Need a church mentor? Contact James 

286 – Do you have a broken relationship in need of healing?

Maybe you’re having trouble with someone at work, either your boss or an employee. Maybe it’s someone at church. Or could it be someone in your family? Or maybe you’re completely estranged from someone.

Whatever the situation is, there’s always a possibility of healing and restoring these broken relationships, even though it may not be easy and require a lot of soul searching.

I’ve been thinking about what the Bible has to say about the healing and restoration of problematic relationships.

This week I talk with Greg Stephens, who has devoted his life to helping people clean up and improve their relationships and at the same time build new bridges to help the relationships go forward.

Greg talks about three broken relationships in the Bible and how they were healed:

• Jacob and Esau
• Joseph and his older ten brothers
• Peter and Jesus

What would you say to Joseph and his brothers to heal their relationship before it got so bad they sold Joseph as a slave? Listen to Greg's answer now.

Show notes:
Full transcript (PDF download) and Bible quotes: thebiblespeakstoyou.com/286

Greg Stephens contact info:
Email: greg@alignment-resources.com
Website: https://www.alignment-resources.com/
Book: Build New Bridges: The Art of Restoring Impossible Relationships*

*Amazon affiliate link

Text me your questions or comments.

Support the show

If you enjoy the podcast, please rate and leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

__________________
James Early, the Jesus Mindset Coach, is a Bible teacher, speaker, and podcaster. His focus is on getting back to the original Christianity of Jesus by embracing the mindset of Christ in daily life.

• Reach out today if you need a speaker or Bible workshop for your church or organization (online and in person)
• Subscribe to the podcast (and get your copy of Praying with the Mindset of Jesus)
• Make a donation to support the show
• Schedule a free one hour coaching call to see if the Jesus Mindset Coaching program is a good fit for you
• Contact James here
  
  

285 – What do you do when you need healing and justice?

Is there something in your life, at work, or at church right now that needs healing? 

What about justice? Have you or anyone you know experienced any injustice lately?  

And if you look at what’s going on in the world as a whole, it almost seems everyone is crying out for healing and justice.

What on earth is the remedy to all this? 

Well, the solution is never going to come from some government policy or any human organization. 

The only real and lasting solution comes from standing in God’s presence, what the Bible calls standing before the throne of God.

This week's episode talks about:

• What God's throne represents
• What it means to stand before the throne of God
• What happens when you do
• What it requires of you
• What God says to you when you stand before His throne

You don't have to wait until after you die to stand before the throne of God. God is sitting on His throne–this is a metaphor for God being in complete control– right now. 

Whatever you’re struggling with, on a personal level, or a global level, accept God’s invitation to be in His presence, to stand before His throne. 

SHOW NOTES:
Full transcript of the episode and Bible quotes: thebiblespeakstoyou.com/285.

Text me your questions or comments.

Support the show

If you enjoy the podcast, please rate and leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

__________________
James Early, the Jesus Mindset Coach, is a Bible teacher, speaker, and podcaster. His focus is on getting back to the original Christianity of Jesus by embracing the mindset of Christ in daily life.

• Reach out today if you need a speaker or Bible workshop for your church or organization (online and in person)
• Subscribe to the podcast (and get your copy of Praying with the Mindset of Jesus)
• Make a donation to support the show
• Schedule a free one hour coaching call to see if the Jesus Mindset Coaching program is a good fit for you
• Contact James here
  
  

284 – Do you ever get judged by your age?

Have you ever felt pigeonholed by someone as to what you're capable of doing based on how  young or old you are?

Have you ever judged your own capabilities based on you age.

The world is always stereotyping what you can and can't do based on how old or young you are.

This week's episode looks at some of the people in the Bible who broke those age stereotypes and how they did it.

• Abraham and Sarah
• Moses
• Caleb
• Samuel
• David
• Elizabeth and Zacharias
• Mary, Jesus's mother
• Jesus

More importantly, we'll look at what you can do in your own life to start overcoming the limitations associated with how old you are.

SHOW NOTES:
Full transcript and Bible quotes: thebiblespeakstoyou.com/284.

Text me your questions or comments.

Support the show

If you enjoy the podcast, please rate and leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

__________________
James Early, the Jesus Mindset Coach, is a Bible teacher, speaker, and podcaster. His focus is on getting back to the original Christianity of Jesus by embracing the mindset of Christ in daily life.

• Reach out today if you need a speaker or Bible workshop for your church or organization (online and in person)
• Subscribe to the podcast (and get your copy of Praying with the Mindset of Jesus)
• Make a donation to support the show
• Schedule a free one hour coaching call to see if the Jesus Mindset Coaching program is a good fit for you
• Contact James here
  
  

283 – How is your church doing these days?

A lot of churches, in many different denominations are struggling. 

Is your church growing? Are you holding steady? Are you barely treading water?

Does your church have a vision for where you're going?

In today’s episode, we’re going to look at some ideas that will hopefully give you a few fresh ways to pray for and be active in your church.

• What to do if your church members are hesitant to share their faith with others
• Why some churches close
• The need to see your church in the bigger picture
• Having a small church can actually be an advantage
• What does loving your community really look like?
• Church growth is not about getting more members

What would happen if your community felt loved by your church the way they would have felt loved by Jesus?

How can your church follow Jesus's example?

Having a vision for your church means you know where you are and where you're going.

When you're clear on your destination, it is much easier to get there. 

Show notes:
For a full transcript of this episode and all Bible quotes: thebiblespeakstoyou.com/283

Text me your questions or comments.

Support the show

If you enjoy the podcast, please rate and leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

__________________
James Early, the Jesus Mindset Coach, is a Bible teacher, speaker, and podcaster. His focus is on getting back to the original Christianity of Jesus by embracing the mindset of Christ in daily life.

• Reach out today if you need a speaker or Bible workshop for your church or organization (online and in person)
• Subscribe to the podcast (and get your copy of Praying with the Mindset of Jesus)
• Make a donation to support the show
• Schedule a free one hour coaching call to see if the Jesus Mindset Coaching program is a good fit for you
• Contact James here
  
  

282 – Could you use a blessing from God right now?

Have you ever felt like you needed a little extra blessing from God in your life? 

Maybe things are a bit challenging at the moment or you’ve just come through some rough waters and are on the other side of things, but you need to find some peace of mind?

It’s at times like this that we need to feel God’s presence and the blessings that come with it.

There are lots of ways to ask for and receive God’s blessings, but today we’re going to talk about a unique way to do this that I just discovered in the Bible a couple of days ago.

The Bible verse that sparked this Aha! moment is from Psalms:
      I am the LORD your God, who brought you up out of Egypt. 
     Open wide your mouth and I will fill it.     (Psalm 81:10)

There's more to this verse than just opening your mouth to eat the food God gives you.

What does it mean metaphorically to open your mouth wide and have it filled by God.

That's what this episode is all about.

How wide can you open your mouth? How receptive are you to God's blessings for your life?

Show notes:
For a full transcript and all Bible quotes, go to thebiblespeakstoyou.com/282.

Text me your questions or comments.

Support the show

If you enjoy the podcast, please rate and leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

__________________
James Early, the Jesus Mindset Coach, is a Bible teacher, speaker, and podcaster. His focus is on getting back to the original Christianity of Jesus by embracing the mindset of Christ in daily life.

• Reach out today if you need a speaker or Bible workshop for your church or organization (online and in person)
• Subscribe to the podcast (and get your copy of Praying with the Mindset of Jesus)
• Make a donation to support the show
• Schedule a free one hour coaching call to see if the Jesus Mindset Coaching program is a good fit for you
• Contact James here
  
  

281 – How would your life be different if you trusted God completely for everything?

Sometimes it's almost easier to trust God when something terrible happens because there's no where else to turn.

Or when you're afraid and don't know what to do.

But what about your everyday life when there are just the normal challenges and obligations? Do you trust God then? 

It's so easy to just let things work out and not bother God, right? Not necessarily. 

What does it even mean to trust God?

It's hard to trust someone or something if you don't know who or what it is. It's the same with God. 

If you really want to trust God for everything in your life – and that's a wonderful goal – you have to start with getting to know God better. 

To trust God completely requires a conscious choice to know God more closely than you ever have before. Jesus could trust God in every detail of his life because he knew God so intimately.

The better you know God, the more you will hear His voice, and the more you will trust and obey Him in every circumstance. 

LISTEN NOW to this week's episode.

Show notes:
Full transcript and all Bible quotes from this week: thebiblespeakstoyou.com/281

Text me your questions or comments.

Support the show

If you enjoy the podcast, please rate and leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

__________________
James Early, the Jesus Mindset Coach, is a Bible teacher, speaker, and podcaster. His focus is on getting back to the original Christianity of Jesus by embracing the mindset of Christ in daily life.

• Reach out today if you need a speaker or Bible workshop for your church or organization (online and in person)
• Subscribe to the podcast (and get your copy of Praying with the Mindset of Jesus)
• Make a donation to support the show
• Schedule a free one hour coaching call to see if the Jesus Mindset Coaching program is a good fit for you
• Contact James here
  
  

280 – What if there was a simple solution to every problem you ever had?

The good news is that Jesus has given us a solution that will solve every problem, whether it's in your personal life or a collective problem.

But just like any solution, you have to do what is required of you.

Jesus offered this solution to lots of people who came from 

• A wide variety of education levels
• Differing job skill sets
• Different socioeconomic backgrounds
• Different religious and cultural heritage
• And he offered this solution to men and women equally

Jesus' solution for every problem is a simple, two word phrase: Follow me.

That's what this week's podcast is all about. No matter what your situation is, no matter how big or small the problem is, the solution is to follow Christ.

This is true even for collective problems on a local level up to international problems. 

You can't make someone else follow Christ, but you can do it yourself in such a way that people you meet see the light of Christ in you and are inspired to let their own light shine. 

Christ is calling you right now: Follow me.

Show notes:
For a full transcript of this episode and all Bible quotes, go to: thebiblespeakstoyou.com/280

Text me your questions or comments.

Support the show

If you enjoy the podcast, please rate and leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

__________________
James Early, the Jesus Mindset Coach, is a Bible teacher, speaker, and podcaster. His focus is on getting back to the original Christianity of Jesus by embracing the mindset of Christ in daily life.

• Reach out today if you need a speaker or Bible workshop for your church or organization (online and in person)
• Subscribe to the podcast (and get your copy of Praying with the Mindset of Jesus)
• Make a donation to support the show
• Schedule a free one hour coaching call to see if the Jesus Mindset Coaching program is a good fit for you
• Contact James here
  
  

279 – What would you say to someone like Zacchaeus?

Zacchaeus was notorious for cheating people by making them pay more taxes than they owed. He was in cahoots with the Romans, which was basically a betrayal of the Jewish people.

What did Jesus say to Zacchaeus that caused him to have such a radical moral and spiritual transformation? 

In this week's episode, I talk about:

• Why did Zacchaeus want to see Jesus?
• Why did he climb a tree to see him?
• Why did Jesus want to have dinner with Zacchaeus?
• What did Jesus see in Zacchaeus that no one else saw?
• What are some of the things Jesus might have said to him?

What does this story have to do with you and me?

We don't know the exact words Jesus said to Zacchaeus, but we do know he treated him with love and respect.

Is there a modern day Zacchaeus in your life that needs to feel the love of Christ? When you seen them with the eyes of Jesus and love them with the love of Jesus, you will be able to help them discover who they are as a child of God.

It's not just the words you say. It's about how you see and love them that brings moral and spiritual transformation.

You can do this today.

Show notes:
For a full transcript of the episode and all Bible quotes: thebiblespeakstoyou.com/279

Text me your questions or comments.

Support the show

If you enjoy the podcast, please rate and leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

__________________
James Early, the Jesus Mindset Coach, is a Bible teacher, speaker, and podcaster. His focus is on getting back to the original Christianity of Jesus by embracing the mindset of Christ in daily life.

• Reach out today if you need a speaker or Bible workshop for your church or organization (online and in person)
• Subscribe to the podcast (and get your copy of Praying with the Mindset of Jesus)
• Make a donation to support the show
• Schedule a free one hour coaching call to see if the Jesus Mindset Coaching program is a good fit for you
• Contact James here
  
  

278 – What do you do when you're overwhelmed with discouragement?

I've been talking to a lot of folks who are VERY discouraged by everything that's going on in the world right now.

Is there a way to overcome this feeling of despair and discouragement?

Yes, of course. And it's encouraging to see all the folks in the Bible who were face with all sorts of discouraging situations and how they overcame them.

That's what this week's episode is all about:

• The turning point for Elijah when he was ready to quit
• How Hannah poured out her heart to God in desperation but finally found peace
• Even Jesus got discouraged at times because people didn't understand or accept his message
• Jesus's secret for overcoming discouragement

When you feel discouraged, be honest about how you feel. Don’t pretend to be so holy and spiritually minded that you’re not bothered when you are. 

Even Jesus expressed his discouragement, but he moved quickly from it to complete trust in God each time.

Right this moment, you may feel overwhelmed with discouragement, dismay, and despair over what’s going on in your life, at work, at church, in your country, or the world. 

You may be at the height of hopelessness. But also, right in this moment, God is present, His hand full of hope, comfort, and resources, just as He was with the Children of Israel in the wilderness.

•••••••••

Blog posts and previous episodes mentioned this week:

• Episode 277: How to Overcome Evil with Good 
• Episode 43: You Can Trust God’s Perfect Timing for the Events in Your Life 
• Blog post: God Prepares Your Heart on His Timetable 

Show notes
Full transcript and Bible quotes: thebiblespeakstoyou.com/278

Text me your questions or comments.

Support the show

If you enjoy the podcast, please rate and leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

__________________
James Early, the Jesus Mindset Coach, is a Bible teacher, speaker, and podcaster. His focus is on getting back to the original Christianity of Jesus by embracing the mindset of Christ in daily life.

• Reach out today if you need a speaker or Bible workshop for your church or organization (online and in person)
• Subscribe to the podcast (and get your copy of Praying with the Mindset of Jesus)
• Make a donation to support the show
• Schedule a free one hour coaching call to see if the Jesus Mindset Coaching program is a good fit for you
• Contact James here
  
  

277 – How do you deal with all that's going on in the world today?

Do you ever feel overwhelmed with gloom and despair with all that's going on these days?

Or have you ever been in a threatening situation, either because of people or circumstances?

Whether it's on personal or global level, sometimes it seems like evil influences are wreaking havoc on our lives or in society.

How do we deal with this? Is it possible to overcome all this evil in the world?

That's what this week's episode is all about:

• How King Jehoshaphat overcame three armies attacking him without a battle
• The authority and power Jesus gives us to overcome evil
• The divine power Paul assures us we have to overcome all evil
• The spiritual tools Paul explains how to use to overcome evil
• The real reason people are evil (this is no surprise, but it is thought provoking)
• The final victory of good over evil--it's closer than you think

And most importantly I talk about what you can do, starting today, to overcome evil with good.

If you're struggling with evil influences in your personal life or overwhelmed with all the terrible things happening in the world today, this episode is for you.

Show notes:
Full transcript and Bible quotes--thebiblespeakstoyou.com/277

Text me your questions or comments.

Support the show

If you enjoy the podcast, please rate and leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

__________________
James Early, the Jesus Mindset Coach, is a Bible teacher, speaker, and podcaster. His focus is on getting back to the original Christianity of Jesus by embracing the mindset of Christ in daily life.

• Reach out today if you need a speaker or Bible workshop for your church or organization (online and in person)
• Subscribe to the podcast (and get your copy of Praying with the Mindset of Jesus)
• Make a donation to support the show
• Schedule a free one hour coaching call to see if the Jesus Mindset Coaching program is a good fit for you
• Contact James here
  
  

276 – Do you have trouble letting go of things to follow Christ?

When Jesus asked Peter and Andrew to leave their nets to follow him, it was a pretty big deal. Fishing was their livelihood.

If Jesus walked up to you and asked you to leave your job, your profession, the way you earned money for your family, would you leave it all to follow him?

Peter and Andrew immediately left their nets to follow Jesus.

Is it possible to follow their example in today's world?

This week's episode is all about 

• What it means to leave your nets 
• What it means to follow Christ 
• AND some ideas on how to do it

Start with yourself. Start where you are, with what you’re doing, what you’re involved in. And see where God takes you.

Whether you leave your nets all at once to follow Christ or take a more step by step approach, is not as important as actually hearing Christ’s call, be willing to follow, and beginning the journey from where you are right now, however much or little you have left all for Christ in the past.

God has given you the ability to hear Christ’s call on your life and empowered you to follow it.

He has given you the strength and the courage, to leave your nets, to let go of whatever holds you back. 

Show notes:
Full transcript and Bible quotes in this episode: thebiblespeakstoyou.com/276

Text me your questions or comments.

Support the show

If you enjoy the podcast, please rate and leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

__________________
James Early, the Jesus Mindset Coach, is a Bible teacher, speaker, and podcaster. His focus is on getting back to the original Christianity of Jesus by embracing the mindset of Christ in daily life.

• Reach out today if you need a speaker or Bible workshop for your church or organization (online and in person)
• Subscribe to the podcast (and get your copy of Praying with the Mindset of Jesus)
• Make a donation to support the show
• Schedule a free one hour coaching call to see if the Jesus Mindset Coaching program is a good fit for you
• Contact James here
  
  

275 – Jesus says you are the salt of the earth. What are you doing about it?

Recently, my friend Terese said: It's time to take your salt out of the salt shaker.

I took that to mean: quit hiding yourself, your God-given gifts and talents, and what you have to contribute to society. Be who God made you to be and share it with the world.

Being the salt of the earth can mean lots of things. In the Bible salt had numerous uses and metaphorical meanings. Salt was

• Connected with purity 
• Used to preserve food
• Used to flavor food
• Sometimes used to destroy the soil's ability to grow crops
• Required in many burnt offerings
• Used as a medium of exchange
• Considered a healing agent

When Jesus said we are the salt of the earth, he could have been referring to some or all of these uses for salt.

In this week's episode, I unpack how all these ways to use and think about salt apply to our lives today.

You'll be surprised how I describe adding salt to burnt offerings applies to us today.

Your salt is the Christly flavor you bring to your life and all those around you. If you keep this Christlikeness to yourself, it's like having a salt shaker on the table but never putting any salt on your food.

If you keep your salt to yourself, you may be the salt, but not the salt of the earth. It’s time to take you salt out of the salt shaker and share your love for Christ with others.

Show notes:
For a full transcript and all Bible quotes, go to thebiblespeakstoyou.com/275

Text me your questions or comments.

Support the show

If you enjoy the podcast, please rate and leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

__________________
James Early, the Jesus Mindset Coach, is a Bible teacher, speaker, and podcaster. His focus is on getting back to the original Christianity of Jesus by embracing the mindset of Christ in daily life.

• Reach out today if you need a speaker or Bible workshop for your church or organization (online and in person)
• Subscribe to the podcast (and get your copy of Praying with the Mindset of Jesus)
• Make a donation to support the show
• Schedule a free one hour coaching call to see if the Jesus Mindset Coaching program is a good fit for you
• Contact James here
  
  

274 – Putting God first in 2025

First of all, Happy New Year!

I wish you all the best in 2025 and that you'll discover more of who God made you to be and live this out in your daily life.

A new year is a wonderful time to think about your priorities, to let go of things and thoughts you've outgrown. It's a time to embrace more fully where God is calling you.

In this first episode of the new year, I focus on putting God first in your life as your number one priority. I ask and answer the 5 Ws and the 1 H.

• Who should put God first in your life?
• What does it mean to put God first?
• When should you put God first?
• Where should you put God first?
• Why should you put God first?
• How do you put God first, in everything you do?

On the surface, the answers to these questions are pretty obvious. But this episode goes deeper to get at the heart of what it means to put God first in your life.

Listen now. And let me know how you put God first in your life.

Once again: HAPPY NEW YEAR!


Show notes:
For a full transcription and Bible quotes in this episode: thebiblespeakstoyou.com/274

Text me your questions or comments.

Support the show

If you enjoy the podcast, please rate and leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

__________________
James Early, the Jesus Mindset Coach, is a Bible teacher, speaker, and podcaster. His focus is on getting back to the original Christianity of Jesus by embracing the mindset of Christ in daily life.

• Reach out today if you need a speaker or Bible workshop for your church or organization (online and in person)
• Subscribe to the podcast (and get your copy of Praying with the Mindset of Jesus)
• Make a donation to support the show
• Schedule a free one hour coaching call to see if the Jesus Mindset Coaching program is a good fit for you
• Contact James here
  
  

273 – Year in Review for The Bible Speaks to You Podcast

2024 has completed it's designated rounds!

I hope your year has been full of spiritual growth and progress. And I hope you'll take some time to reflect on the the things you have to be grateful for and the lessons you've learned this year.

This week's episode shares some of the highlights from the podcast this past year.

Want to listen to an entire episode?
Here are links to all episodes mentioned this week:

• 232 – You Don’t Need Someone Else’s Permission to Do what God Has Called You to Do
• 235 – How to Be Filled with the Fullness of God
• 239 – God Is Always with You, No Matter What
• 243 – The Secret to Spiritual Restoration
• 245 – How to Be Joyful No Matter what Happens
• 248 – That's Not the Jesus I Believe In
• 254 – God Already Knows What You Need
• 256 – The Biblical Cure for Loneliness
• 261 – The Best Motive for Prayer that Heals
• 262 – Redeeming and Healing the Past
• 264 – Finding Peace During Political Turmoil
• 265 – Trusting God No Matter What Happens

All blessing for the New Year!

Show notes:
Full transcript of the clips from each of these episodes: thebiblespeakstoyou.com/273

Text me your questions or comments.

Support the show

If you enjoy the podcast, please rate and leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

__________________
James Early, the Jesus Mindset Coach, is a Bible teacher, speaker, and podcaster. His focus is on getting back to the original Christianity of Jesus by embracing the mindset of Christ in daily life.

• Reach out today if you need a speaker or Bible workshop for your church or organization (online and in person)
• Subscribe to the podcast (and get your copy of Praying with the Mindset of Jesus)
• Make a donation to support the show
• Schedule a free one hour coaching call to see if the Jesus Mindset Coaching program is a good fit for you
• Contact James here
  
  

272 – When was the last time you read the story of Jesus's birth?

Christmas is the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ. How well do you know the story?

When was the last time you read the whole thing?

In this week's episode, I read the entire Christmas story.

That's it.
No commentary.
No explanations.
No historical context or data.

Just the story, all by itself, of Jesus's birth.

This Christmas, take a few minutes just to listen to the story, you probably know so well. But listen again.

Let the Christmas message of Christ's coming sink down into your heart and then shine forth in your life.

MERRY CHRISTMAS

Show notes:
For a full transcript of the Bible passages in Matthew and Luke, go to thebiblespeakstoyou.com/272

Text me your questions or comments.

Support the show

If you enjoy the podcast, please rate and leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

__________________
James Early, the Jesus Mindset Coach, is a Bible teacher, speaker, and podcaster. His focus is on getting back to the original Christianity of Jesus by embracing the mindset of Christ in daily life.

• Reach out today if you need a speaker or Bible workshop for your church or organization (online and in person)
• Subscribe to the podcast (and get your copy of Praying with the Mindset of Jesus)
• Make a donation to support the show
• Schedule a free one hour coaching call to see if the Jesus Mindset Coaching program is a good fit for you
• Contact James here
  
  

271 – How do you celebrate the spiritual meaning of Christmas?

The world tries to make us forget about the real reason we celebrate Christmas with its focus on the excess materialism of the day.

To keep a spiritual approach to Christmas, the best place to start is focusing on Jesus and all he taught and did.

This week I talk about ways to discover the deeper spiritual meaning of Christmas.

• Start with gratitude for Jesus, Mary and Joseph, and everyone in the Christmas story
• Following Jesus's example every day of the year
• Not over-emphasizing the all the running around and festivities
• Finding quietude during the Christmas season to remember Christ's coming
• Reading out loud the Christmas story from Matthew and Luke
• Be more spiritually minded yourself

What would Christmas look like if you took away all the outward celebrations and focused only on Christ? 

In this episode I share a poem, The Mystic's Christmas*, written by John Greenleaf Whittier, an American poet of the 19th century. 

It's about an elderly monk who was not joining the other monks in the way they celebrated Christmas. 

When they asked why, he admitted he used to join in all the festivities, but now he celebrated spiritually in his heart. 

I wish you a very Merry Christmas season and I hope you discover this year, a whole new and deeper spiritual sense of what Christmas is all about. 

Is there any way you can de-materialize, even in some small way, how you celebrate Christmas? The world is desperately crying out for this spiritual sense of Christmas you have to offer.

Show notes:
* To read a full transcript, the Bible quotes and Whittier's poem, go to thebiblespeakstoyou.com/271

Text me your questions or comments.

Support the show

If you enjoy the podcast, please rate and leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

__________________
James Early, the Jesus Mindset Coach, is a Bible teacher, speaker, and podcaster. His focus is on getting back to the original Christianity of Jesus by embracing the mindset of Christ in daily life.

• Reach out today if you need a speaker or Bible workshop for your church or organization (online and in person)
• Subscribe to the podcast (and get your copy of Praying with the Mindset of Jesus)
• Make a donation to support the show
• Schedule a free one hour coaching call to see if the Jesus Mindset Coaching program is a good fit for you
• Contact James here
  
  

270 – Have you ever put yourself into the Christmas story as one of the Bible characters?

If you're like me, you've probably read the Christmas story so many times, and seen so many Christmas pageants that it seems like the same story over and over, with nothing new or fresh.

But what if you were one of those characters? Which one would you be? Who do you relate to most in the Christmas story?

Have you ever seen yourself in the role of:

• The shepherds
• One of the angels who appeared to the shepherds
• One of the Wisemen
• Hopefully not King Herod
• Gabriel, who told Mary she was going to be the mother of Jesus? No way!
• Certainly not Mary, but...
• Maybe you can relate to Joseph
• What about the innkeeper who turned Mary and Joseph away
• Okay, just for fun, what about the animals in the stable

There's actually one more character in the Christmas story I didn't put on the list here, but it's the person we should probably relate to more than anyone else. Listen to find out who it is.

As Christmas approaches, take some time to ponder how you can relate to each of the characters in the Christmas story.  

The more you understand and appreciate their unique roles in the Christmas story, the more you will discover your God given purpose in sharing the good news of Christ. 

What unique role will you play in the ongoing Christmas story today?

Previous episode mentioned:
Episode 11: Thank God There Was No Room in the Inn when Jesus Was Born

Show notes:
Full transcript and Bible quotes in this episode: thebiblespeakstoyou.com/270

Text me your questions or comments.

Support the show

If you enjoy the podcast, please rate and leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

__________________
James Early, the Jesus Mindset Coach, is a Bible teacher, speaker, and podcaster. His focus is on getting back to the original Christianity of Jesus by embracing the mindset of Christ in daily life.

• Reach out today if you need a speaker or Bible workshop for your church or organization (online and in person)
• Subscribe to the podcast (and get your copy of Praying with the Mindset of Jesus)
• Make a donation to support the show
• Schedule a free one hour coaching call to see if the Jesus Mindset Coaching program is a good fit for you
• Contact James here
  
  

269 – If Jesus walked into your church, would you recognize him?

Would he look the way we have imagined him with a beard and flowing hair? Would he be in a coat and tie or in blue jeans and a flannel shirt?

I know, this is a totally hypothetical situation, but it's helpful to ask these questions once in a while.

In this week's episode I talk about:

• The three main ways to recognize the presence of Christ in your church
• How to see Jesus in everyone who comes to church
• How to treat everyone at church the way you would treat Jesus
• What happens to your church when you do this
• The Parable of the Five Monks

When you look at someone else and recognize Jesus in them, you will treat them with great love, respect, care, and honor.

When you recognize Christ in yourself, you will treat yourself, your body, your mind, your soul and spirit with greater respect, honor and love.

When we do this collectively, that’s what church is all about: seeing Christ within each and every one, and treating them accordingly.

Show notes:
Full transcript and Bible quotes: thebiblespeakstoyou.com/269

Text me your questions or comments.

Support the show

If you enjoy the podcast, please rate and leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

__________________
James Early, the Jesus Mindset Coach, is a Bible teacher, speaker, and podcaster. His focus is on getting back to the original Christianity of Jesus by embracing the mindset of Christ in daily life.

• Reach out today if you need a speaker or Bible workshop for your church or organization (online and in person)
• Subscribe to the podcast (and get your copy of Praying with the Mindset of Jesus)
• Make a donation to support the show
• Schedule a free one hour coaching call to see if the Jesus Mindset Coaching program is a good fit for you
• Contact James here
  
  

268 – How do you express your gratitude for Jesus?

There are always so many things to be grateful for during the Thanksgiving season here in the United States. But if you don't live in the US and don't have an official Day of Thanksgiving, I hope you always have some kind of gratitude practice.

Gratitude is always in season.

Right now, I am focusing on how grateful I am for Jesus. And I encourage you to do the same. That's what this week's episode is all about:

• Words are not enough. It's important to feel gratitude for Jesus in your heart
• Take some time to ponder how grateful you are for Jesus
• Put your gratitude into action by following Jesus's commandments
• Get close to what Jesus said and did: study his words and actions and follow his example
• Love people the way Jesus would
• Love people the way you would love Jesus

When you actively strive to follow Jesus’s way of thinking, praying, and loving, you’re going to start acting more and more like him. You'll be more and more like him and your life will be different.

You’ll forgive people who mistreated you. You’ll love your enemies. You will be a peacemaker. You will have compassion on people who are suffering and you’ll be able to bring healing and hope to them.

And you'll support others in their desire to follow Jesus.

There's no better way to express your gratitude for Jesus than to follow his example and share your faith with others.

Show notes:
Full transcript and Bible quotes: thebiblespeakstoyou.com/268

Text me your questions or comments.

Support the show

If you enjoy the podcast, please rate and leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

__________________
James Early, the Jesus Mindset Coach, is a Bible teacher, speaker, and podcaster. His focus is on getting back to the original Christianity of Jesus by embracing the mindset of Christ in daily life.

• Reach out today if you need a speaker or Bible workshop for your church or organization (online and in person)
• Subscribe to the podcast (and get your copy of Praying with the Mindset of Jesus)
• Make a donation to support the show
• Schedule a free one hour coaching call to see if the Jesus Mindset Coaching program is a good fit for you
• Contact James here
  
  

267 – What's the most important reason to go to church?

Most people today would probably say it's to worship God. But according to Tom Wadsworth, PhD, the early Christian church did not have worship services, the way we do today.

Tom says the main reason to go to church is found in 1 Corinthians, Chapter 14.
It is to build each other up. Everything we do when we gather together is to edify on another other.

And everyone contributes to this, not just a pastor or church leaders.

Tom calls this "one-anothering." Supporting, loving, edifying one another in all we do.

Worship to early Christians was the way the surrendered to God and served Him in every detail of their daily lives.

Invitation: Next time you go to church, go with the intention to build up your fellow church members, to help them love and grow more in the Spirit.

Connect with Tom:
YouTube Channel
Website: tomwadsworth.com

Previous episodes mentioned:
Episode 224: Why Should I Believe in the Nicaean Creed?
Episode 228: Women Leaders in the New Testament

Show notes:
Full transcript and Bible quotes: thebiblespeakstoyou.com/267

Text me your questions or comments.

Support the show

If you enjoy the podcast, please rate and leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

__________________
James Early, the Jesus Mindset Coach, is a Bible teacher, speaker, and podcaster. His focus is on getting back to the original Christianity of Jesus by embracing the mindset of Christ in daily life.

• Reach out today if you need a speaker or Bible workshop for your church or organization (online and in person)
• Subscribe to the podcast (and get your copy of Praying with the Mindset of Jesus)
• Make a donation to support the show
• Schedule a free one hour coaching call to see if the Jesus Mindset Coaching program is a good fit for you
• Contact James here
  
  

266 – Have you ever wanted to be part of a group so bad you tried to fit in but you still felt left out?

It happens all the time. You want to be in a group or community or a church, but to feel part of things and be accepted you have to copy the attitudes and behaviors of the members of the group.

It's hard because you don't feel you can really be yourself, but being part of the group is important. So you sometimes end up compromising your own values and individuality to be in the group.

The Bible has some very encouraging things to say about this. And that's what this week's podcast is all about.

• The Israelites demanded a king so they could be like the other nations. What were the long term consequences of this decision?
• Why did certain Jewish leaders try to fit in with the Pharisees when they didn't want to admit publicly that they believed in Jesus?
• How did Jesus help Zacchaeus see he belonged to the kingdom of heaven?
• How can you help others realize they don't have to try to fit in to the world's way of thinking because they belong to God?

Take a moment for a little self-reflection. Are you trying to fit in to the way the world sees and does things?

Are you trying to fit in somewhere you don’t really belong. You don’t belong to the world. You don’t belong to sin or the past mistakes you’ve made.

You don’t belong to man-made theological dogma, doctrines, and traditions. And you don’t belong to the devil. You belong to God. 

Show notes:
Full transcript and Bible quotes – thebiblespeakstoyou.com/266 

Text me your questions or comments.

Support the show

If you enjoy the podcast, please rate and leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

__________________
James Early, the Jesus Mindset Coach, is a Bible teacher, speaker, and podcaster. His focus is on getting back to the original Christianity of Jesus by embracing the mindset of Christ in daily life.

• Reach out today if you need a speaker or Bible workshop for your church or organization (online and in person)
• Subscribe to the podcast (and get your copy of Praying with the Mindset of Jesus)
• Make a donation to support the show
• Schedule a free one hour coaching call to see if the Jesus Mindset Coaching program is a good fit for you
• Contact James here
  
  

265 – Are you trusting God no matter what happens with the election?

Have you ever felt like your life goes from one challenge to another, or one crisis to another? 

And just look at the national scene.

As soon as one political battle comes to an end another one starts. And what about the election!!!

How do you keep your peace in all these situations? It’s not always easy.

The question is: Do you trust God in the midst of all these problems?

That's what this week's episode is all about. I ask some pretty honest questions:

• Do you only trust things will be okay if your candidate(s) win?
• Do you only trust things will be okay if the policy you want gets implemented?
• Can you trust God to work things out even if your candidate looses?
• Do you trust people and politics more than God?

Regardless of the political outcome here in the United States, or whatever may be going on in the country where you live in, you can trust God to provide for you, protect you, guide you, and heal you.

Regardless of the outcome of any event, large or small, local, regional, federal, and even international, you can trust God in every situation for all your needs.

Show notes:
Transcript and Bible quotes: thebiblespeakstoyou.com/265

Text me your questions or comments.

Support the show

If you enjoy the podcast, please rate and leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

__________________
James Early, the Jesus Mindset Coach, is a Bible teacher, speaker, and podcaster. His focus is on getting back to the original Christianity of Jesus by embracing the mindset of Christ in daily life.

• Reach out today if you need a speaker or Bible workshop for your church or organization (online and in person)
• Subscribe to the podcast (and get your copy of Praying with the Mindset of Jesus)
• Make a donation to support the show
• Schedule a free one hour coaching call to see if the Jesus Mindset Coaching program is a good fit for you
• Contact James here