Encouragers United Podcast

This is a special archived episode of "Tuesday Tea with Charlie G." A Facebook live presentation created and maintained to the present day. Catch it on Facebook each Tuesday morning.

Pastor Charlie Grimes, Walnut Creek Mennonite Church, Walnut Creek, OH.

Encouragement

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Pastor Charlie Grimes, Walnut Creek Mennonite Church, Walnut Creek, OH.

Encouragement

Positive mental attitude

Enthusiasm, Dreamer, Coach, Mentor, Friend

Charlesrgrimes@gmail.com

Pastor Charlie Grimes, Walnut Creek Mennonite Church, Walnut Creek, OH.

Encouragement

Positive mental attitude

Enthusiasm, Dreamer, Coach, Mentor, Friend

Charlesrgrimes@gmail.com

Pastor Charlie Grimes, Walnut Creek Mennonite Church, Walnut Creek, OH.

Encouragement

Positive mental attitude

Enthusiasm, Dreamer, Coach, Mentor, Friend

Charlesrgrimes@gmail.com

Pastor Charlie Grimes, Walnut Creek Mennonite Church, Walnut Creek, OH.

Encouragement

Positive mental attitude

Enthusiasm, Dreamer, Coach, Mentor, Friend

Charlesrgrimes@gmail.com

Pastor Charlie Grimes, Walnut Creek Mennonite Church, Walnut Creek, OH.

Encouragement

Positive mental attitude

Enthusiasm, Dreamer, Coach, Mentor, Friend

Charlesrgrimes@gmail.com

Pastor Charlie Grimes, Walnut Creek Mennonite Church, Walnut Creek, OH.

Encouragement

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Week #1 of a sermon series on the "Passion of Jesus" by Charlie Grimes of Walnut Creek Mennonite Church.

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Pastor Charlie Grimes, Walnut Creek Mennonite Church, Sermon on Matthew 8:18-27

Special thanks to the WCMC Worship team for the last song- Oceans

Encouragement

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Pastor Charlie Grimes, Walnut Creek Mennonite Church, Sermon on Matthew 8:1-17

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Pastor Charlie Grimes, Walnut Creek Mennonite Church, Sermon from Matthew 7:15-29

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Pastor Charlie Grimes, Walnut Creek Mennonite Church, comments on Matthew 5:7-10.

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Pastor Charlie Grimes, Walnut Creek Mennonite Church, Walnut Creek, OH.

Encouragement

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A brief reflection on Matthew 5:7, "Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy" Pastor Charlie Grimes, Walnut Creek Mennonite Church, Walnut Creek, OH.

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A brief reflection on Matthew 5:6, Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be filled.  Pastor Charlie Grimes, Walnut Creek Mennonite Church, Walnut Creek, OH.

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A reflection on Matthew 5:5  "Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth."

Encouragement

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Charlesrgrimes@gmail.com

Encouragement

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Charlesrgrimes@gmail.com

Encouragement

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A short introduction to one of the early church fathers, Ignatius of Antioch.  By Charlie Grimes

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Galatians 6:9  Never Grow Weary of Doing Good

As Christians, we try to live a life that brings glory to God but some days, that is really hard to do. Sometimes it feels like we aren’t getting anywhere with our work or our efforts--- In these moments it can be all too easy sometimes to cave in and quit. We get weary---Where can we find the strength and focus to keep going?  Where does motivation and inspiration come from?

Most of you may know that my background is in Exercise, physical training and particularly in coaching athletes in the sport of Track and Field.  With the Olympics just around the corner, and the US Olympic trials in full swing, it’s a great time of the summer. I love watching the stories, and the performances.  It reminds me of the days when my legs were a lot lighter, and I could run and jump and throw.  It also reminds me of many years of working with students as they trained and developed their own performances.  The ups and downs of training as an athlete are many--

I often used bible verses and spiritual concepts in my coaching and teaching.  One of those favorite passages I remember is Galatians 6. In this chapter, Paul is concluding his letter to the Galatian church. The book of Galatians is largely about justification by faith instead of works of the law, however, towards the end, it veers towards the results of a justification by faith, a life in the Spirit.

Do not be deceived: God is not mocked, for whatever one sows, that will he also reap. For the one who sows to his own flesh will from the flesh reap corruption, but the one who sows to the Spirit will from the Spirit reap eternal life.

And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up. So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who are of the household of faith.

Galatians 6:7-10 ESV

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Psalm 23:6  “Better Than I Deserve”

Surely goodness and mercy will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.

I love a phrase Dave Ramsey uses on his radio programs--  He will greet a caller with a kind hello, and almost every time, the caller will say “Hi Dave, How are you?”--  This is actually pretty odd to me, as I actually have called into a radio program to ask a specific question-- Now as a podcast producer and host, I would want the caller to just get to the question, and skip the pleasantries-- Dave almost always says-  “Better than I deserve… what can I do for you?”

Jesus shows time and time again that He can and will provide for those who follow Him. Just as a shepherd provides for the sheep, so does Jesus provide for His followers. No better description of this exists than Psalm 23.  It’s been a wonderful journey these last few weeks.  If you happen to have missed an episode, I highly encourage you go back and listen to the entire set.  It’s been a great honor to produce these teachings, and a great reminder to all of us how much God loves and cares for us.

Scholar’s believe David is an older man when he wrote this Twenty-third Psalm. He had seen tragedies and disappointments, but he also had come to know God - The shepherd who gives to his children more than they deserve. Think about this great summary I found from another pastor:

David knew that God was with him in green pastures, beside him at the still waters, before him at the table, behind him pursing him with goodness and mercy, beyond him preparing a heavenly home, and with him all the while as the good shepherd. David had been given more than he deserved.

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“The Lord is my shepherd…  I shall not want”.

David writes these timeless words--the 23rd Psalm is quite possibly the most familiar passage of scripture-- (second only to John 3:16, or maybe the Lord’s prayer right?).

I sometimes feel like we’ve cluttered up the Christian life. In trying to conceptualize or describe “what” it means to walk with Jesus, we may have mistakenly created this outer-shell, (the do’s and don’ts) of our faith-- and we sometimes need a reminder of the heart of the matter-- the core value of our lives is to know God, to be known by Him, and to have relationship with Him.  That is made possible, by Jesus alone-- and he prepares a table for you. All we need to do is simply sit down-- and stay at the table.

Psalm 23:4

Can you remember those toughest times of your life-- when perhaps you knew that this was pretty dark, pretty bad.  I know I can think back to times when I thought it just couldn’t get any worse with a family issue, or stuff at church or work… even within my own heart and mind.  Confusion, darkness, uncertainty-- it’s all stuff we’ve walked through-- and sometimes its a slow go-- but Jesus was there, calling softly in those times-- Come on, I’ve got you.

Some people think that when you become a Christ-follower, all your troubles go away. They naively assume that once you are saved, everything in your life will fall neatly into place. In fact, they think if you have any problems, there must be something faulty with your faith.

But nothing could be farther from the truth. It is not only foolish to think we will never face difficulties in the Christian life, it is downright dangerous. If we think we will never encounter any trials, we will set ourselves up for a great fall and be sadly disappointed.

The reality is, we all need a shepherd—someone to guide us through our many adversities, someone to protect us from encroaching evil, someone to calm our troubled souls. That someone is the LORD Himself.

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Psalm 23:3   He restores my soul.  He leads me in paths of righteousness for His name sake.

This next verse in one of the most familiar passages in the bible speaks simply about how God provides correction and renewal when we find our souls depleted-- and also how God continues to give us guidance and love to move forward on the right path.

Jesus provides for your physical needs, he provides rest and peace in an anxious world, and thirdly, he provides correction and renewal when you fall. Psalm 23:3: “He restores my soul.” (Psalm 23:3a) That word “restore” is a word that speaks of refreshing and renewal.

Psalms 23

King David was raised as a shepherd, and is the best person to write these timeless words of comfort and assurance.

Let’s just consider just one verse from this powerful Psalm of David

V 1:

The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want.

It is a powerful metaphor used many times in scripture.  The relationship between shepherd and sheep.   A shepherd, as it’s often described in scripture, has a very unique and powerful role-- But there is such a thing as a “sheep-herder” also.  This would be a much different role.  We often think of the shepherd as out in front of the sheep- leading them.  A sheepherder simply cracks the whip or corrals the sheep, driving them from behind.  And notice here that David does NOT state:   The Lord is my sheepherder…  No-- he says SHEPHERD.

Are you discouraged, critical, negative and short tempered?  Are you dis-satisfied with life these days?  I think we all have felt it.  Since march of 2020, we’ve been facing a health pandemic caused by the COVID-19 virus. This pandemic has wrecked havoc with our lives.  But another, more subtle and hidden virus is raging alongside the Coronavirus.   Many are suffering through a pandemic of discontent.  Frustration, anger, bitterness, anxiety and all host of other negative emotions are wrecking havoc within our families.  The following is a rebroadcast of a sermon I was able to deliver recently, where I discuss Philippians 4, a letter the apostle Paul writes from prison.  There are three distinct keys to learning to be content-- no matter our circumstances.  We must find and concentrate on the positives, we must find a way to give sacrificially to others, and we must remember this secret-- that for those of us who are Christians, Christ lives in our hearts, and HE does give us the strength to do all things. I hope you are encouraged today, on the Encouragers United Podcast!

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God’s Shaping Hand  Jeremiah 18

Think about all the different types of containers in our world today.  All different shapes, sizes, they are made for different purposes, to hold almost anything… we seemingly have containers for everything!

Containers actually are quite useful, right, for preserving things-- separating things, organizing. A container helps us to transport things-- or save them for a later time.   With technology and our modern culture today, we basically take a lot of this activity for granted.  But not so much in the time of the Old Testament.  The primary container of that day was-- pottery.  Pottery was a very valuable commodity because of the advantage it gave it’s owner.  However, back then, and even today,  pottery is often seen as a piece of artwork also.  Each container was hand crafted by someone. A multitude of shapes, sizes, curves and unique colors, designs and markings.  We need to be reminded that we are being shaped by God for a specific and beautiful purpose.  Also, we are being used by God as a shaping force in the lives of others!

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Repentance or Regret

Two men, two betrayals, two dramatic scenes from the last days of Jesus’ life here on earth--  These two men are very similar in many ways, they had walked with Jesus, talked and listened, learned from him, they were key partners in his ministry and his closest friends- and the results of their actions during these critical last hours of Thursday and Friday of the Holy week were tragic in so many ways.  But the story doesn’t end with the disastrous decisions and actions that these men made… in fact the story actually becomes even worse for one of these men-- but ends in a glorious restoration for the other.

Judas and Peter were two of Jesus’ closest friends, two partners that traveled with Jesus with ten other men from various backgrounds, for three spectacular years.

Three major differences between the two stories:

-Peter rejoined his peers and fellowship was part of his healing.  Judas attempted to reconcile himself with the law, and was left alone and hopeless.

-Peter was willing to rush toward Jesus when he saw him.  Judas retreated and ended his own life in loneliness and despair.

-Peter probably came to a great understanding of Jesus' true mission, which was to seek and save the lost!

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You Are a Masterpiece

Intro story can be found here:

7 Attributes of a Soul That Is “Passionate” About God.

Psalm 63 reminds us that nothing should hinder our passion for God. King David found himself in a wilderness fleeing from his own son Absalom, but he remained passionate about God.

The word “passion” means to be animated, vivacious or enthusiastic. “Enthusiasm” comes from the word; en theos...which means; in God or possessed by God. All other enthusiasm follows our enthusiasm for God. Who or what are you passionate about?

7 marks of a soul passionate towards God:

I. Makes God a priority (vs 1-2)

II. Gives praise to God! (vs 3-4)

III. Finds pleasure in God (vs 5)

IV. Is preoccupied with God! (vs 6-7)

V. It pursues after God (vs 8)

VI. perseveres with God (vs 8) (Thy right hand upholds me)

VII. positioned under God (vs 9-11)

More explanation may be found on the show notes blog for this episode:

Hard times come to Christians because our reactions in bad times may inspire others to turn to the Lord themselves. Just as Jesus is a witness to the world through his suffering, death, burial and resurrection, we can be a witness in the midst of our own pain and frustrations.

The message of Jeremiah 12 is a dialogue between the prophet Jeremiah and God.  Jeremiah is frustrated and wants God to fix it!  God has a very challenging answer for his servant, and we can learn a great deal from it also!

The point is this: the Lord sometimes allows the overcoming of his people for three reasons: 

First, so in the end, those who see the reactions of believers in bad times may be inspired to turn to the Lord and seek a relationship with Him. Just as Jesus was a witness to the world through his suffering, we can be a witness to ours. 

Second, God allows our overcoming as a way for us to draw closer to him in this life to remind us of our reliance on him and the hope we have in him.  Tough times create tough people--  I have to step back and see God’s ultimate plan for the hardship-- and get stronger through him! 

With that in mind, I think the third reason he allows us to suffer-- is really to teach us that there is NEVER a reason to whine, only to rejoice in what Jesus did for us when He suffered, died and rose again.  That’s a discipline that needs to be practiced and developed.

Encouragement

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Charlesrgrimes@gmail.com

The Emmaus Road   Luke 24:13-35             

The Resurrection story continues as two of the disciples of Jesus discouraged and frustrated begin to travel to Emmaus their home. As they walked, they talked of the events of the week, and then Jesus came along side of them.

For whatever reason, their eyes were kept from recognizing this third person as Jesus, the Risen Lord.

Perhaps they were so preoccupied with their own disappointments and problems.

This wonderful interaction emphasizes that Jesus want to give us companionship, conversation, and challenge!

Opening drama audio was produced by Destiny Church Quebec Specials, and is used with thanksgiving.

Matthew 21, Mark 11, Luke 19, and John 12 all record the “impromptu Worship service” that breaks out when people who had come to Jerusalem for the Passover feast hear of Jesus, coming into the city as well.

We are very familiar with this passage, as it is our custom to revisit the story each year on Palm Sunday.  This year, I have the great honor to bring the message about this powerful event-- a parade of worship perhaps-- but it has a deep application to not only our understanding of Who Jesus really was then-- but we read the passages knowing the “rest of the story”-- not just these last 6 days of Jesus’ earthly life-- not just of his death, burial, and glorious resurrection-- but the rest of the story as it applies to our own worship services today-- and Who Jesus IS today-- but also the rest of the history of the entire universe, when Jesus will triumphantly return and be recognized as the Lamb who is absolutely worthy of all praise and worship forever. We must understand not only who Jesus was-- but also who he is, and who He will be.   I want us to examine together the Triumphal entry with these three dimensions of time in mind...

In the book of 2 Kings chapter 7 we see the story of four leprous men that stayed at the entrance of the city gate during a famine in Samaria. Leprosy is a skin disease and often meant those who had it were unclean and were outcasts from society. It was contagious, so they were not allowed to mingle with the rest of the community. No doubt because of their condition, they begged for handouts, were mocked, pitied, insulted and looked down upon. In all of this turmoil, these lepers stayed at the gate. Now, the gate in scripture is a significant place. Nothing went in or out the city except through the city gate. These lepers would have a better chance for a handout or for some help if they stayed by the entrance to the city.   But with the onset of famine, they find themselves in an even vulnerable and dangerous position.  So they start to do some reasoning.

Nuggets of wisdom from the lepers:

1. They got momentum through God's leading.

2. They did not allow fear of the unknown to cripple them.

3. The rejection and abandonment did not weaken them, it strengthened their resolve to make it.

4. Radical Faith reaps radical results.  When we take a big chance, by trusting God with everything, He can finally and fully use us to display His glory!

5. A heart that remembers others will be blessed.  Start where you are, take what you have, and do what you can!

Many thanks to Jeffery Kinnick from Word of Grace youth, and Kevin Cooley of Harvest Mobile Church for their work in creating the opening clip:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GTewoVY9NS0

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Encourage Everybody is a paper goods & gifts brand that creates unforgettable products that allow you to be creative, have fun and encourage everybody! We believe in the energy and the warmth of the written word to change the world one letter at a time! From a simple sentence to a palace of paragraphs, pick up a card and encourage a loved one!

1 John 2:15-17

“Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world—the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride in possessions—is not from the Father but is from the world. And the world is passing away along with its desires, but whoever does the will of God abides forever.”   ESV version of the Holy Bible

Introducing the first King of Israel, Saul, who we will read about here today-- He seemingly lived a life of “almost” commitment to God, and up to the very end, that wasn’t at all what God wanted for him.  It’s a tragic story of a man stuck in a worldly mindset-- missing the great peace and security that obeying God completely give us.

Today I want to encourage you that God is usually quite clear with his expectations, that we are truly responsible for our own actions-- and that nothing is ever hidden from God’s sight.

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Are you a spectator in life-- or are you a participant?  In this episode, I want to make a distinction between those who stand back and watch the game-- and those who are in the trench, playing the game.  It’s not good enough to skirt all responsibility for a situation, and simply give our critique or lame excuse-- real power in this life comes from stepping up to the plate, taking responsibility, and making something happen.

Opening quote is an excerpt from Theodore Roosevelt's "Man in the Arena".

A “spectator” perspective often processes life as a critique.  These individuals are living a life of reflection and often criticism, mostly in hind sight--where they really have no responsibility at all for the circumstances.     While “participants” realize that this is a one-shot deal and live life and take the initiative and the responsibility to positively make a difference right where they are right now.

So, which are you?Would you prefer to analyze and observe the game-critiqing it?- or are you willing to get in the game and participate?   Listen to the powerful words from the bible-- James 1:22  "But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves."  I take this to be encouragement that we can’t just sit back and hear what God wants us to do-- we need to do it.

You see, it’s been said in life that you are either a part of the problem, or you are part of the solution.  My experience tells me that if you’re “playing the game” trying to take responsibility and participate in life-- you’re going to be a part of the solution-- no matter where you are, or what you are up against…

But if you would resign yourself to simply standing back and watching-- being a spectator-- anything you may want to contribute later--- is probably part of the problem.

Don’t just be a hearer of the word--- be a doer!

Encouragement

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Charlesrgrimes@gmail.com

These are not the foundational principles of marriage.

These tips are one-sentence nuggets of practical advice. They are easy to understand, sometimes difficult to implement, but absolutely transformative.

1. No SARCASM.

2. Remember your MANNERS.

3. Become aware of the LOVE LANGUAGE of your partner.

4. Do not assume your partner's MOTIVATION.

5. Avoid CORRECTING your partner.

6. Offer and accept relationship BIDS.

Awesome resources:

https://www.gottman.com/

I hope this has inspired you to start where you are, take what you have, and do what you can!

For those of you country music fans- I’ll send you out with a great brand new song written by an new up and coming country artist named Cooper Alan.  Here’s his new single dedicated to his parents called “Tough Ones”.

Opening audio scene is used with thanks and respect to my wife's favorite classic movie, The Princess Bride

https://www.startmarriageright.com/2015/08/10-simple-but-powerful-ways-to-build-your-marriage/

Sonia H. Cameron is a published author and blogger that writes to encourage career individuals in transition. Her goal is to inspire those wanting more out of their life’s purpose to find the job of their dreams.

Born in Wilmington, NC, Sonia has worked in corporate America for over 25 years, with her current position placing her at an information technology firm in Research Triangle Park, NC. Throughout her career, Sonia has experienced numerous peaks and valleys, leading to several transition periods. During these times of transition, Sonia learned key principles and discovered necessary tools to help her excel every time.

As a result of wanting to share her experiences to encourage and empower those in similar situations, Sonia began blogging about job hunting and career enhancement. She began sharing her story on her blog Bless the Work in 2010, with the most viewed page being her encouragement blog section. This blog would eventually create an avenue for Sonia to publish her first article for Christian Devotions in 2014.

Sonia’s most recent project is an e-book released on Amazon in May 2020. The book, titled God Please Help Me Find A Job: 21 Prayers for the Job Seeker is a guide aimed to assist readers in seeking the face of God so that they can make the right decision for procuring job opportunities.

When she’s not writing, Sonia loves to spend time with her husband and blended family; she loves to cook equally as much as she cooks to love.

https://blessthework.com

YouTube channel:  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuJtaGs2ydGo54ZzKR-tjQw

Encouragement

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Enthusiasm, Dreamer, Coach, Mentor, Friend

Charlesrgrimes@gmail.com

Sonia H. Cameron is a published author and blogger that writes to encourage career individuals in transition. Her goal is to inspire those wanting more out of their life’s purpose to find the job of their dreams.

Born in Wilmington, NC, Sonia has worked in corporate America for over 25 years, with her current position placing her at an information technology firm in Research Triangle Park, NC. Throughout her career, Sonia has experienced numerous peaks and valleys, leading to several transition periods. During these times of transition, Sonia learned key principles and discovered necessary tools to help her excel every time.

As a result of wanting to share her experiences to encourage and empower those in similar situations, Sonia began blogging about job hunting and career enhancement. She began sharing her story on her blog Bless the Work in 2010, with the most viewed page being her encouragement blog section. This blog would eventually create an avenue for Sonia to publish her first article for Christian Devotions in 2014.

Sonia’s most recent project is an e-book released on Amazon in May 2020. The book, titled God Please Help Me Find A Job: 21 Prayers for the Job Seeker is a guide aimed to assist readers in seeking the face of God so that they can make the right decision for procuring job opportunities.

When she’s not writing, Sonia loves to spend time with her husband and blended family; she loves to cook equally as much as she cooks to love.

https://blessthework.com

YouTube channel:  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuJtaGs2ydGo54ZzKR-tjQw

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Charlesrgrimes@gmail.com

I Corinthians 1:10 I appeal to you, brothers and sisters, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree with one another in what you say and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be perfectly united in mind and thought.

Galatians 3:28 There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.

It is the living testimony that the Holy Spirit is present, and active.

John McCain and John Kerry

Ronald Regan and Tip O’neal

Ruth Bader Ginsburg and Antonin Scalia

John 13:35 By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”

Ephesians 4:11 So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, 12 to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up 13 until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ.

Abraham Lincoln, upon winning his first term as President in a tremendously heated and close election, immediately appointed several of his parties political rivals to key and close cabinet positions.  He called it a “Team of Rivals, with malice toward none”.  Having as many perspectives as possible could be the best course of action in solving the most difficult problems.  It may take patience, grace and determination-- but I would rather have those solutions in the long run anyway.

His death, and love for us-- transcends any difference we might have--

Ephesians 2:14 For he himself is our peace, who has made the two groups one and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility,

-If we truly have wrestled with this truth-- we can see our differences more clearly and without personal pride.   We are all sinners, saved by grace.

All in all-- the vision is to come to the table, with the right perspective, roll up your sleeves and patiently and diligently get to work!

Psalms 133:1 How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity!

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Come join the movement of positive minded, enthusiastic leaders!  Weekly shows will mix interviews, product reviews, and thoughtful inspirational teaching.

Hosted by Charlie Grimes, Christian worship leader and pastor, this podcast is high octane positivity.

Encouragement

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The Apostle Paul is a prominent figure in the New Testament history of the church!  He travelled and founded several Christian communities of faith in the years 30-60 AD, and wrote frequently to those congregations with instructions, greetings and encouragement.  What would Paul write to our modern day church in 2021?  We might find that we have much in common with the fledgling congregation of Christians at Corinth, and the letter of I Corinthians has much to say about our modern day struggles!  This is a rebroadcast of a sermon from I Corinthians 1:1-9, an introduction to this powerful teaching from Paul to a church struggling with division, bad decisions, and frustrations on all sorts of issues.  Sounds familiar, doesn't it?  Paul has a lot to say, but he starts with the positive and encourages them and us to remember who we are, and set goals to have unity with each other.

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Enthusiasm, Dreamer, Coach, Mentor, Friend

Charlesrgrimes@gmail.com

New Plan Life is not just a channel but a lifestyle. Here at New Plan Life we choose to live our life doing  things that GIVE LIFE, not take it. Things like being productive, visiting family, calling up siblings, spending time with friends you haven't seen, bonding, learning an art, etc. Aren't you tired of wasting your time and life on social media and never being fulfilled? Pursue LIFE GIVING things instead!

He’s a faithful, energetic and uplifting person.  He’s a communicator, worship musician and podcaster with a message that will make you think, and inspire you to live your life worthy of the call we all have a Christians.  His Podcast is called New Plan: Life, and it can be found on all the popular platforms-- and as a professional videographer, you bet he takes his art to YouTube through a channel by the same name.

Listen up here for a bright spot in your day.  He’s a great young leader, and super encouraging-- he is Mr. Dylan Drye.

One of the great paradoxes of life is that self-awareness breeds anxiety. - Author: Irvin D. Yalom

Do you know yourself well enough to handle challenges without burning out?  Do you shy away from difficult problems and conflict?

400 meters is approximately ¼ of a mile. A single lap around a standard outdoor track. The 400m is actually too far to run at maximum speed.  You can’t actually run the whole distance as fast as you can.  In fact, if you’ve ever run this distance, you know exactly what I’m talking about. I’ve watched far too many innocent novices run the first 200-300 meters of the race like a “bat out of h_ll” only to crumple into an oozing pile of lactic acid, crawling home in the last 100m.

The 400 meter sprint is an event that has taught many people about themselves; how much they can handle, and what their mental and physical limits are!

Join Coach Grimes here to discuss the two critical life lessons that this "long sprint" can teach us.

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Charlesrgrimes@gmail.com

The Wise men from the east arrive on the scene in Jerusalem some time after Jesus Christ is born.  Their story is one of waking up, looking up, rising up, and showing up!  They then bow down in humble worship.  We can learn to practice the presence of God in our lives and experience the great joy moment that these travelers had.

This is a rebroadcast of the 2020 Christmas Eve service message by Charlie Grimes.

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Charlesrgrimes@gmail.com

Flexibility, self-awareness, and a perfected skill that defies physics.  These are some of the life lessons we learn from the high jump!  Enjoy this fourth episode in the All-Around leader series.  We want to bring value to our organizations and workplaces-- and it takes an all-around leader to solve the problems and move a team forward toward success.

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Charlesrgrimes@gmail.com

We all struggled through the year 2020, a year filled with disappointment, ambiguity, and uncertainty.  Jesus Christ was born into a dark and uncertain world in Bethlehem.  The season of advent is a time of anticipation and expectation.  In this sermon, originally delivered on 12/22/19, I remind us of the true and pure meaning of Christmas.  Emmanuel means "God with us".

Special thanks to Heather Curtis and the Dayspring Christian worship team for singing a portion of Chris Tomlin's "Noel" at the end of our episode.

Many blessings to you and yours this Christmas season!

Would you like to be heard on the Encouragers United Podcast?  Visit my website and leave a voice message!   I would love to take your questions and comments and place them into an upcoming episode.

https://charlesrgrimes.com/message

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Charlesrgrimes@gmail.com

Are you facing an extremely heavy burden?  Something in your life that you know is going to take a huge amount of energy to move or solve?  You’re not alone.  I believe we all need two vital character skills when facing these types of obstacles, and I’m going to explain how I learned them in this third installment in the all-around leader series--  It’s all about the Shot put,  but first-- a word from our sponsor...

Ugly, mean, base-- the shot put is the first throwing event in the decathlon, and it's all about pure brute explosion. The sprinters have excelled in the first two events, the 100m and Long jump-- but now we all must be confined to a 7’6” circle-- not a very large space to generate power and force. Each competitor will have 3 attempts to move this 16lb object as far away from that circle as possible, while staying under control and leaving the back half of the circle after they have thrown.

We need to generate intensity under control.  Maximum effort from everything that we have control over.

Then we need to focus that force into the problem.

Intensity +  Focus  = maximum performance.

Encouragement

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Charlesrgrimes@gmail.com

Are you discouraged, critical, negative and short tempered?  Are you dis-satisfied with life these days?  I think we all have felt it.  Since march of 2020, we’ve been facing a health pandemic caused by the COVID-19 virus. This pandemic has wrecked havoc with our lives.  But another, more subtle and hidden virus is raging alongside the Coronavirus.   Many are suffering through a pandemic of discontent.  Frustration, anger, bitterness, anxiety and all host of other negative emotions are wrecking havoc within our families.  The following is a rebroadcast of a sermon I was able to deliver recently, where I discuss Philippians 4, a letter the apostle Paul writes from prison.  There are three distinct keys to learning to be content-- no matter our circumstances.  We must find and concentrate on the positives, we must find a way to give sacrificially to others, and we must remember this secret-- that for those of us who are Christians, Christ lives in our hearts, and HE does give us the strength to do all things. I hope you are encouraged today, on the Encouragers United Podcast!

Philippians 4:8-32 "A pandemic of discontent" by Charlie Grimes

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Jim Roddy is an author, keynote speaker, podcast host, moderator, business coach, and consultant. He works with high-initiative, growth-oriented organizations to help them uncover their blind spots with customers, employees, and business best practices. Then he applies his 25+ years of business management experience, executive leadership, and industry expertise to help them get better.

Since 1999, Jim has educated and counseled business and non-profit leaders (and future leaders). He is one of the most popular speakers in the technology industry because of a presentation style that is “infotaining” — a combination of informational and entertaining. Jim is regularly requested to moderate keynote panel discussions featuring executives from companies such as HP, NCR, IBM, and successful software startups. He has presented from coast-to-coast throughout North America (Hawaii, San Diego, Las Vegas, Chicago, Austin, Toronto, Orlando, Philadelphia, New York, Boston and more) as well as internationally (Aruba, Bahamas, Virgin Islands, and more).

Jim is author of The Walk-On Method to Career & Business Success and Hire Like You Just Beat Cancer. He’s been featured as a guest on the Read To Lead podcast and has been published by Entrepreneur and Nasdaq. Jim has interviewed best-selling business authors Chip Heath (Made To Stick, Switch, Decisive) and Michael Gerber (The E-Myth), hosting with Mr. Gerber a series of webinars and podcasts that attracted 1,000+ executives.

https://www.amazon.com/Walk-Method-Career-Business-Success-ebook/dp/B08JJCQ7CY

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1457512130/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_bibl_vppi_i1

https://twitter.com/Jim_Roddy?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor

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https://www.shondacarter.com/

https://www.facebook.com/TheREELShondaCarter/

https://speakerhub.com/speaker/shonda-carter#:~:text=As%20one%20of%20the%20nations,marketing%20and%20peak%20performance%20strategies.

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Kristen Hogrefe Parnell writes suspenseful fiction from a Christian faith perspective for both teens and adults. Her young adult dystopian series titled, The Revisionary, received the Selah and Grace Awards for speculative fiction, and the Blythe Daniel Agency is representing her new romantic suspense project, called Take My Hand. She also teaches English online and has served in youth ministry for several years. In addition to her writing and teaching careers, She is an inspirational speaker for graduations and women’s events, as well as a workshop presenter at writer’s conferences. Kristen and her husband live in the state of sunny Florida and love sharing their lake home with family and friends. I hope you enjoy our conversation today, on the Encouragers United Podcast.

https://kristenhogrefeparnell.com/

https://www.amazon.com/Kristen-Hogrefe/e/B004FZXG7U/ref=dp_byline_cont_pop_ebooks_1

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Brenden is passionate about helping others achieve rocket level success, whether it's helping them overcome their fear of public speaking, helping startups with their pitch decks to raise capital or his current role at IBM, helping clients transition to better communication and to help them do business better.

Coached 100+ individuals on mastering the art of public speaking having spoken at organizations such as Next AI, Technovation Montreal, UpstartED and Front Row Ventures

Brenden has also launched MasterTalk, a coaching channel on YouTube.  With over 4,100 subscribers, Brenden shares concise, clear and extremely helpful tips, lessons, and exercises to help all of us become better at public speaking, presenting in front of a group or on video and communication in general.

Tom Gerencer is the author of the soon-to-be-published book, "I Can't Do it Without You, God," about the power of prayer to transform our lives. He has a rags-to-faith-to-riches story about a failed marriage and career, turning to God, learning to pray, and then watching God work miracles in his family life, career, and emotional well-being.

Tom has learned key steps to building a strong relationship with God, including praying with humility, learning how to believe (yes, it takes effort), meditating [and knowing how to use it] and changing what we ask for. Tom also shares how small acts of charity can change our lives, and shows how even those with little money can help others and themselves through reaching out in small ways. He also explains the science-backed power of biblical fasting, and tips for raising kids in an atheist world.

Tom is an ASJA journalist, content writer, editor, and teacher who writes about science, tech, health, business, and the outdoors. He's a regular contributor to HP Tech Takes, Boys' Life, and Scouting, with articles in The Boston Globe Magazine, Fast Company, Outdoor Life, Costco Connection, and many more. Tom’s book, “How It’s Made” for the Discovery Channel will be out by Christmas 2020, and his marketing book, “Think Like Google” is now available on Amazon. Tom has written over 1,500 high-traffic articles with more than 70 million readers worldwide.

Tom has deep insights into powerful, everyday prayer as a way to find peace in tough times. He can share the steps to build a stronger faith that lets us ask for the things we need with the confidence that can move mountains in our lives. Tom can share insights on the science and surprising power behind prayer, meditation, fasting, and other biblical advice that shows how it can change our lives with little effort. Tom also shares *how* to believe -- yes, it does take effort.

http://www.tomgerencer.com/

tom@tomgerencer.com

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Next up in the All-around leader series:  The Long Jump

If the 100 meter sprint was an "all-out" race to the finish line, the long jump demands much more control and consistency. The participant sprints down a runway and leaps off a common take off spot called the "board", flying through the air and landing as far away from the take-off line as possible. In the decathlon, we only have three attempts also, so everything must be perfect.

There are four primary leadership lessons I've learned from competing in and coaching others in the Long Jump:

"Master your own approach"

The run-up or approach is all about rhythm and acceleration.  I used to think about a freight train, as it slowly takes off from a stop, rhythmic chug, chug, chug, chug-- as it gains momentum and velocity.  A jumper would measure the run up in the number of strides or steps they would take-- I used an 8 left foot approach, meaning that I would use 16 total steps during the run up.

"Attack the horizon"

A great take off is "set up" by an excellent and consistent approach.  In the long jump, your trajectory will often follow where you are focusing.  What I mean is that if you are looking down at the ground just 15-20 feet in front of you - i.e. into the sand pit.  That's exactly where you will jump, 15 feet.  However, if you are looking straight up at the sky, you're probably going to jump far to high into the air, and your flight will be too steep, and short.  The horizon, that visual meeting place between the sky and the land-- that's where we need to focus.

"Don't cross that line"

There is a very critical place that I want you to understand in the long jump event.  It represents the standard that every jump will be measured.  The front edge of the takeoff board is really only about 1/4" wide.  No jumper is allowed to touch the track surface in front of that line-- otherwise, it's a "foul".  You'll see a specific judge usually sitting right at that spot-- he/she will be equipped with a flag-- white on one end, red on the other.  After each take-off, they are assigned to judge the jump-- by raising the appropriate colored side of the flag.  You cross that line-- even by just a "hair"-- your attempt is null and void.  0 points-- and waste of your time.

"Don't be afraid to get dirty"

As the long jumper powerfully takes off from the board, rises and seemingly walks through thin air during the flight-- then there is a very violent and active landing where often sand flies all over the surrounding area!  You see, excellent long jumpers reach forward in a seated position right at the landing-- stretching out and often landing practically on their sides.  They literally "throw" themselves forward into the sand pit-- and trust me, you get sand EVERYWHERE-- in your socks and shoes, in your shorts, your singlet top, your hair, eyes, ears and up your nose.

Apply these simple lessons to your leaderships and work today!

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Dave Ebert is a former professional wrestler, comedian, improv coach, credentialed minister, and podcast host based in the Chicago suburbs.  He and I talk about his long-time battle with depression and how laughter can indeed be good medicine-- you wont' want to miss it!

After nearly two decades of battling with depression and suicidal thoughts, Dave Ebert made the life-changing decision to pursue God. He says, “At that point, I wrestled with this choice: I could take my life…or I could give my life. I finally made the right decision and gave my life to the Lord.”

Shortly after this decision, Dave relocated back to Chicago in 2013, when he founded Well Versed Comedy, an improv comedy ministry troupe. Doing comedy is his primary passion for reaching people, either to uplift and encourage fellow Christians, or to bring light, laughter, and joy to non-Christians. Most of his life, Dave covered his depression with humor. He used it to make others feel better while disguising how he truly felt inside. Dave often tells his testimony by saying, “I used to use comedy to hide who I was, but now I use comedy to reveal Who He is.”

On top of performing improv, Dave volunteers at an organization for women who have survived sex trafficking. There, he teaches improv to the survivors to help improve communication skills, creativity, self-confidence, and, if nothing else, give the women a chance to laugh without care for an hour a month.

He married his wife Bobbie in June 2015, and they live together in Crest Hill, Ill., with their three cats.

Wellversedcomedy.com

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Heather Erbe is the Business Development and Promotions manager for SHINE.FM in the Lansing, Mid-Michigan area. Shine.Fm is a Christ-centered radio station sponsored by Olivet Nazarene University in Bourbonnais, IL.    HEATHER also hosts the Midday air shift across the SHINE.FM network, six days a week, assembling encouraging content for her listeners.

Previously, HEATHER spent 11 years at CORNERSTONE UNIVERSITY Contemporary Christian WAYFM/GRAND RAPIDS/KALAMAZOO, and will continue to serve on-air and MD at ROSS BIBLE CHURCH Contemporary Christian WNFR (90.7 HOPE FM-POWER 883)/PORT HURON.

She's also the Host of the Shine.fm MomCast, an interview based podcast.

She's wife to her great husband Paul, and mom to three wonderfully busy teenagers, Alexandra, Sebastian and Atticus.  She's hi-energy, positive, and compassionate-- utilizing real life experiences to give listeners an authentic and transparent encouragement. But most of all, I'm so happy to have her on the show, because she is my little sister!  Enjoy our conversation today, on the Encouragers United Podcast!

shine.fm

Today we start the decathlon of leadership!  Event number 1 is the 100 meter sprint.

Three key lessons that we can learn from the 100 m sprint:

Tune out the noise

It demands focus

Distraction is the enemy

line up-- block out anything else, and focus.

This often takes a routine--

Doing the same things in preparation - born out of habit, repetition, success

Would often "practice starts"

Stay in your lane:

Disqualified if you ran out of your lane--

You need to know your role, and perform to your best ability in that role.

Sometimes I need to ask myself, what is my role in this situation?

Was it to just listen?  To act, to solve the problem-

Acting out of our lane can get you into big trouble

Don't look back:

Never any use in looking back-- once the gun goes off, you're either sprinting or your not.

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Dan Owolabi is the Executive Director and co-founder of Branches Worldwide, a leadership development ministry with an innovative initiative to impact 30 leaders in 30 countries for 30 years.

Branches has one big goal: To identify young Christian leaders and inspire them to do the work which God has called them to do. Partnering with local doctors, lawyers, entrepreneurs, and business leaders around the world, Branches helps leaders transform their communities through their influence as Christian leaders.  With a focus on equipping these workplace influencers with Shepherd Leadership training, resources, and a network of experienced Christian mentors, Branches helps increase their influence as leaders, and their ability to draw their peers to Christ.

Dan holds a BA from Malone University, and an MA from Ashland University. He lives in Ohio with his wife Erica and their two daughters.

Dan also has created his own coaching and leadership consulting firm, Owolabi Leadership, and has recently written and published his first book, Authentic Leadership: How to lead with nothing to hide, nothing to prove, and nothing to lose.

I hope you are inspired by our conversation today on the Encouragers United Podcast!

What is an entrepreneur?  I'm not sure I could define it, but I think I can introduce you to one today!

Alex Sanfilippo started his first business at the age of 10. he began selling used golf-balls in his neighborhood and realized that I really enjoyed generating sales and keeping track of a profit.

Fast forward a number of years and he begin investing in real estate and also started and sold a tech company in that space. (Creating virtual tours of homes)

From there he went into aerospace and worked his way up from a part time employee all the way to a senior executive in a large publicly traded organization.

Throughout this time, he began blogging and built a multi author blog with more than 130 writers on it.

He got into productivity and business startup coaching which led him to the launch of the creatingabrand.com website and Podcast so that he could serve his audience in a more direct way.

Lori Marini is a Motivational Coach who specializes in empowering women during their healing journey after a life crisis. Many lose their purpose and their fear of moving forward leaves them paralyzed. Coach Lori guides them to fulfilling their vision of their best life.

As a Breast Cancer Warrior herself, Lori understands first hand what it takes to get beyond the fear and finding the courage to live a life you love on your own terms. Through speaking engagements, one-on-one, and group coaching sessions, Lori supports clients on topics such as life mastery, mindfulness, vision and goal fulfillment, work-life balance.

Lori has a Master's of Health Science as a Pathologist Assistant with a vast experience working with patient tumors and managing diagnostic and research laboratories. She facilitated the development and implementation of a new precision medicine center which is now the foundation for several patient-partnered genomic data-sharing initiatives. She is an ACC accredited certified coach by the International Coaching Federation. She is also the Founder and Owner of Lori Marini Coaching and the host of Conversations with Courageous Cancer Warriors podcast.  Lori is currently collaborating to write her first book, soon to be released in September 2020, called "Women who boss up".  In light of all Lori Marini has studied and learned about cancer, actually experiencing her own cancer journey has made her a super hero, helping others to tackle head on the hardest parts of being a cancer warrior.  Enjoy her story on this weeks episode of the Encouragers United Podcast.

Lori's website:

Ryan Stanley is a lifelong entrepreneur who is known for his natural ability to connect with, understand and empower those who are in pursuit of making significant changes in their personal and professional lives so they can end up being the best versions of themselves. Since graduating from The Institute for Professional Excellence in Coaching (iPEC) in 2009 as a Certified Professional Coach (CPC) Ryan has changed the lives of hundreds of clients from all walks of life. More recently, Ryan has also been working at his alma mater as both an Admissions Coach, where he closed almost $22 Million in sales in 8 years, and as their first ever Internal Coach where he coached staff from entry level to C suite on everything from daily professional growth to how they want to show up energetically in the personal areas of their life.

In 2002, Laura Warfel lost her husband Gene when he passed away from a chronic illness. After spending several years not wanting to be a widow, Laura discovered God’s dream for the next chapter of her life when she met Jon Acuff and heard him speak in 2013. As a result, she joined a group of Dreamers & Builders who have encouraged her to find her more.

Her goal: To use the gifts and strengths God has given her to help others become more than they ever think or imagine they can be. Laura does this by connecting people with other people, with valuable resources, and with the truth and direction found in God’s Word. She enthusiastically shares her expertise in writing, editing, marketing, public relations to help individuals and organizations improve their communications.

Today, Laura's passion is to help one, two, three, fifty, hundreds, thousands of widows to be more than widows. Her goal is to form an army of churches and resources to provide the help widows need to survive and thrive. Along the way, she encourages everyone God sends her way to be more and do more with his/her life.

presented more than 150 seminars on grief, triumphed over cancer, learned social media as her ministry has grown-- She is truly, more than a widow.

Episode #38

This little light of mine, I'm gonna let it shine, let it shine, ...

This beloved hymn was written by Harry Dixon Loes in the early 20th century. Its lyrics are simple for kids to easily remember and recite, with "light of mine" having a powerful meaning of the love and truth of Jesus Christ. That the "light" that is within each of us should not be hidden, but instead displayed to all the world. This hymn is a wonderful way to introduce and teach young ones about faith and confidence in Jesus!

Harry Dixon Loes studied music at Moody Bible Institute. After comprehensive training in music, he served a variety of churches as a ministry of music. From 1939 until his retirement he was a member of the music faculty of Moody Bible Institute. He penned the lyrics for 1,500 gospel songs, and composed 3,000 tunes.

John 16:33

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Welcome to Episode #37 of the Encouragers United Podcast.

Welcome to episode #36 of the Encouragers United Podcast!

Educator, Innovator, Blogger, Author, YouTuber, Encourager.  Eric Curts serves the 35 school districts here in Stark county, Ohio and all over the United States with innovative and creative technology resources. A former middle school educator himself, he has made a career of helping teachers all over the country take the tools they have in their hands right now to use them in new and exciting, engaging ways.   In the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, Eric and I speak about the sweeping changes that have happen in education and technology. He maintains a blog, youtube channel and a hefty speaking career, but His most recent project is a book called "Control Alt Achieve" Eric is far more than just a nerdy tech support person.  He brings a deep love for people and mature transparency to his work with everyone he meets.  Rooted in his diverse life experience and extremely high intellect-- he communicates a vulnerable sincerity, and depth behind his use of technology.  He realizes the value of a human life-- even to the point of calculating the mathematical probability that you and I exist.  He is a true gem and a great friend, and I hope you enjoy our conversation on the Encouragers United Podcast.

ericcurts.com

Episode #35#35

Stress is a feeling of emotional or physical tension. It can come from any event or thought that makes you feel frustrated, angry, or nervous. Stress is your body's reaction to a challenge or demand. In short bursts, stress can be positive, such as when it helps you avoid danger or meet a deadline.

Dr. Jared Detter and I explore many topics here, including stress responses, emotional intelligence, why we think and do what we do when we are facing anxiety, anger, or any host of other emotions.  Listen in for education and advice to help yourself and others manage these stressful days.

I really appreciate Jared's teaching ability-- he's a calm, collected, and master communicator.  I hope you gain from his insight and our conversation here on the Encouragers United Podcast.

He is available for individual counseling, and organizational consulting, please contact him if you are interested in more.

Hello Encouragers!  Today I want you to Meet Jason Brueckner, former Malone University student and one of the toughest, grittiest 400m hurdlers that I ever coached in the sport of Track and Field.  He serves as the Director of Communications for Christ Community Chapel in Hudson, OH.  His energy, enthusiasm and vision for possibilities makes him a excellent example of an encourager in action.  He and his team support the ministry team at CCC through creative and engaging communications strategies, and as we've all done the last few monthes, they have stopped to evaluate, and re calibrate almost everything they do on a daily basis. His  life experiences, positive attitude, his love for Jesus and people make him an ideal light to shine for the Kingdom during this pivotal time in history.

Colossians 3:12-17

Hello Encouragers!  Thanks for joining me for episode 32 of the Encouragers United Podcast.

I'm dipping into the archives here this week to share with you a message I presented to Dayspring Christian Fellowship, the church I am now employed at, way back in the summer of 2013.  I share my thoughts on Colossians 3:12-17.  It's one of my favorites, and I hope it inspires you with truth that there is a difference between trying hard to do what's right to live a holy life, and actually "being" a holy, redeemed person, and then feeling a "desire" to do what's right.  I introduce the concepts of Moral skill-- vs. Moral Will-- knowing how to do right is only one part of the equation-- Wanting to do right is a whole other ball-game!

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Do you have people that you are working with, or even living with that just absolutely drive you crazy? I admit that I do-- They just don't think, see, feel, or do things the way you do? Here's the bad news, guess what, you probably do the same thing to those people too!   What is this phenomena?  That two logical, mature people, trying to accomplish a greater good in the world-- would see the problem, and the solutions-- almost exactly opposite?  Well, you need to understand that for as clearly as you think you know the answers-- someone else may not only see the problem, resources, and vision differently-- they might just be committed to their solution as much as you are to yours!   This diversity can be a tremendous tool, or debilitating aspect of your teams.  If there was a way to get ahead of these differences-- to learn more about not only how we think and process information-- but also to learn more about how others may do the same-- we could kick start a teamwork that, in the long run would be more successful than any one person-- including you could achieve.

Day 7: Form a partnership

Once there were two goats. The goats were friends. They played joyfully in the sun. The goats lived in the mountains, on two separate sides of a deep gorge. One day, the two goats walked up to a fallen tree. The tree fell and made a bridge- connecting two sides of the gorge. But the tree was not safe. The tree was small. Even a smaller goat could barely walk on it safely, and these two goats were large goats.

The goats saw that the tree was too small for two large goats, but they did not want to take turns.

“I am not scared. I will walk on the tree first,” said one goat. The other goat wanted to be first and said, “No, stay on your side. I will walk on the tree first!” But they both wanted to walk first. One goat set her foot on the tree. The second goat did too, until they met, head to head in the middle of the sagging branch.

The tree held two goats. It trembled from the heavy goats.  The tree creaked loudly. The goats were nervous, but they would not back up.

In the middle, the two goats met face to face, horn to horn. “Move! You are blocking my way,” said one. “No, you are in the way!” Shouted the other. They were busy yelling when they heard CREEEEKKKKK! The tree cracked. Down the goats fell with the tree-- they were both killed by the fall into the deep gorge.

Yikes.  Do you understand the moral, or the lesson of the story?  Quite obviously, they could have yeilded

How could the two of you work together to form a bridge that could be helpful?  I know we as pastors at our church are considering several opportunities to connect and share with other churches.

I'm going to do this personally--  I can't wait to see how God may use your creativity and positivity to change your life and the life of someone you know for the best.  May God bless you in the task he's given us.

That's a wrap on the 7 day Encouragers Journey.  We marched around this fortress 7 times,

Prayer, Listening, Respect, Empathy, breaking barriers, and forging partnerships---and I hope the process has been helpful for you to envision a better future.

If this has been a positive influence on you, would you share it with someone you know?  Feel free to leave a comment and rating on the podcast.  That's a great way to let others know how it has impacted you.  I appreciate you listening, and wish you the very best as you continue your journey as an encourager.

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Day 6: Break a Barrier!

Buzzfeed News article:  How white people can support people of color now,

Day 5: Ask a question: "How is this hard for you"?  Empathy

Ian MacLaren, a noted Scotsman, author of “Beside the Bonnie Brier Bush,” cared deeply about those around him. His oft-quoted words offer wise counsel:

“Be kind. Everyone you meet is carrying a heavy burden.”

We recently hosted a town hall type meeting at our church.  It was a sunday evening gathering, setting aside time to share and talk about how we are feeling and thinking about all that's going on in the community, the US and the world.  I was a bit anxious about such a meeting, knowing that there would be a wide variance in the opinions and viewpoints represented in the room--but it went quite well.  We were able to hear from many who just needed to process and express their hearts.  Questions, some tears, understandings and some very deep resolutions were made that night-- It was only a first step, but one that I'm glad we took-- we need to do that more often.  One of the profound actionable things that came out of our discussion was to simply ask someone "How is this time hard for you"?  A simply yet profound gesture to open ourselves to listen and empathize with someone else.  Whether it be due to the racial unrest we are faciing, or the continued stress of living with the COVID-19 virus, or hundreds of other possible stressors that we all are facing-- what a wonderful step to engage someone, and invite them to share what is inside.

Day 4: Random act of Kindness

Have you ever had someone do something nice for you and it surprised you.  That doesn't happen as often as it should right?

Day 3:  Respect

Day 2:  Listen

Welcome to episode #30 of the Encouragers United Podcast.  This week I have a special challenge for you, my loyal listeners.  Let me set the stage for you:  It's the year 2020, we have just started to come out of a world-wide health pandemic and quarantine, sparked by the identification of the deadly and unique COVID-19 virus.  As we try to adapt to living life making decisions about facemasks, social distancing and handwashing, we are also trying to reclaim some sort of normalcy, many of us in leadership positions trying to discern what the next right thing is that we should do.  On pentecost Sunday, a traditionally exciting and hopeful day in the churches calendar-- the death of George Floyd at the hands of law-enforcement officers in Minneapolis, MN ignites the United states into a racially charged debate about everything from the value of life to the true prevalence of racist police brutality, marches of protest both peaceful and violent, leaving many bewildered and confused about what's trustworthy, whats proper, and generally questioning our motives, our ancestory, and our relationships with those that have different skin color and cultures.  This time in our nations history renders even the most positive and optimistic among us speechless.  One of the very first lessons I have shared on this the Encouragers United podcast, came from Proverbs 25:20 -- Do not sing songs to a heavy heart-- for it's like taking one's coat in the cold, or adding vinegar to soda.  You see, I believe I can not give you all a weekly pat on the back, smile and say "chin up friend"-- "be well"-- it's going to all work out just fine...  That's like singing songs to a heavy heart.  No-- I have been praying earnestly for some direction for my work with you the Encouraging personalities who are listening each week.  What can we really do-- will my gift of encouragement be useful to anyone during these agonizing times in our neighborhoods, churches and communities at large?

I don't know for sure-- but I'm going to try.  I'm reminded of the great Arthur Ashe quote that I shared in the trailer:  Start where you are, take what you have, and do what you can.  That's what I'm going to do-- I'm going to start where I am-- I'm going to take what I do have, and I'm going to do what I can to make a difference in someones life.  Would you join me in this simple, yet powerful and intentional discipline?  I hope you will-- I want you to join me on a 7 day journey...  Each day I will release a short podcast devotional and recommendation for us to accomplish.  That next right thing-- and in seven days, we will progress to make a difference in both our own hearts-- and hopefully the hearts of those around us.

Encouragement

Positive mental attitude

Enthusiasm, Dreamer, Coach, Mentor, Friend

Welcome to episode 29 of the Encouragers United Podcast!

Benjamin Franklin (1706-90) in a letter to Jean-Baptiste Leroy, 1789, "'In this world nothing can be said to be certain, except death and taxes."

I would add to that "conflict"-- we are all humans, right-and none of us are perfect- we all are dealing with conflict, some due to our own mistakes and misunderstandings-- while other conflict is caused by the mishaps of others.

According to the report “Workplace Conflict and How Businesses Can Harness It to Thrive,” the following statistics demonstrate how pervasive conflict is in the workplace:

85 percent of employees report dealing with conflict on some level

95% of pastors report conflict in their churches-- 20% of those say it's constant

49 percent of conflict is a result of personality clashes

34 percent of conflict is caused by stress in the workplace

33 percent of conflict is caused by heavy workloads

25 percent of employees have seen conflict result in sickness or absence-- which is estimated to be valued at 359 million dollars per year, or about 385 million work days lost.

“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.  Matt 5:9

Let's dig into this topic today on the Encouragers United Podcast.

Step one:

Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others. but made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness.

Phil 2:3,4

Are they more of a "seeker" or an "avoider".  How about you?

Step two:

What are we really conflicting about?

Not all conflict is "relational"

TASK conflict-  disagreeing on the "What"?

PROCESS conflict- disagreeing on the "How"?

POSITIONAL conflict-  disagreeing on "who is in charge here"?

Step three:

Find the common goals and mission!

We must agree on something, right?

Step four:

Resolve to Resolve something!

-Do nothing and keep arguing

-Deal with it directly and talk until we get some progress!

-Defer the decision to someone else, like a higher authority

-Ditch the whole thing, and just quit and leave for a new assignment!

All in all we need to realize that conflict will always be present-- especially with humans.  Conflict resolution is a "muscle" our organizations MUST exercise, and get better using!  Encouragers can be excellent mediators to assist people resolve conflicts.  They are able to see multiple perspectives quickly, and can think fast to bring a common language and camaraderie to the group.  Encouragers hate negativity, and are motivated to see peaceful progress and joy developed within the team.

Encouragement

Positive mental attitude

Enthusiasm, Dreamer, Coach, Mentor, Friend

Welcome to Episode 28 of the Encouragers United Podcast!   I'm Charlie Grimes and I'm honored that you would listen in today-- you may not know, but recently the total number of available podcast shows topped the 1 million mark! I get it, there are literally a million other shows you could be listening to right now, so I'm very thankful and honored that you would join me. As host and creator of the Encouragers United my intent is to encourage the encouragers. These people usually are high-energy, optimistic dreamers who are always up for a challenge and an adventure-- We are quick-witted, but sometimes impulsive-- passionate and enthusiastic, but we can over-think things sometimes too. I'm going to work hard to build you up, sharing my experience as a husband, father, athlete, coach, organizational leader, business owner and a born again follower of Jesus Christ currently working as a pastor. And if all that doesn't necessarily apply to you at all, well, I'm here to encourage you in how best to relate to someone in your life that's like me! So grab a cup of tea or coffee-- or just keep focused on the road if you're driving-- it's time to join the Encouragers United.

"learn to do good;

seek justice,

correct oppression;

bring justice to the fatherless,

plead the widow’s cause". Isaiah 1:17

“Justice will not be served until those who are unaffected are as outraged as those who are. -Benjamin Franklin.

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Encouragement

Positive mental attitude

Enthusiasm, Dreamer, Coach, Mentor, Friend