Spiritually Fit Today

Why This Simple Tradition Beats Every Toy Under the Tree

Subscribe to get each episode delivered to your Inbox daily: https://bttb.org/subscribe2sftJoin Arnie Cole, Laura Coppinger, and Matt Coppinger for a special Christmas episode of Spiritually Fit Today as they discuss meaningful family traditions, the importance of Scripture in the home, and how to keep Christ at the center of your holiday celebrations. This week’s verse focus is John 1:14, “And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us,” reminding us of the true meaning of Christmas—Emmanuel, God with us.Laura and Matt, parents to seven adopted foster children and four biological children, share practical ways to involve every age in family traditions so no one feels left out. From one-on-one Christmas shopping trips to nightly blessings inspired by Numbers 6, they offer heartfelt ideas for building connection and faith in a large family. Discover how even the youngest children can participate in memorizing Scripture and how these practices shape a Christ-centered family culture.Take action with the 4 R’s:Read: Open your Bible to John 1:14 and Numbers 6:24-26. Read these verses together as a family.Reflect: Consider how Jesus’ presence changes your home and how you can make Him the focus of your celebrations.Respond: Pray, “God, be with us. Write your witness into our family rhythms. Make our home a place where presence looks like love. Amen.”Reveal: Choose a family tradition or act of kindness that demonstrates Christ’s love to others this Christmas.For questions or to connect, email Arnie Cole at arnie.cole@bttb.org.Keywords: Christmas family traditions, John 1:14, Numbers 6 blessing, Christ-centered home, Scripture memory, foster adoption, large family Christmas, Christian parenting, holiday faith, Arnie Cole, Laura Coppinger, Matt Coppinger, Back to the Bible, Christmas devotional, Bible reading plan, Christian family podcast

Why Listening Changes Hearts Faster Than Lecturing

Subscribe to get each episode delivered to your Inbox daily: https://bttb.org/subscribe2sftWelcome to the Spiritually Fit Today podcast. Today host Arnie Cole is joined by Laura Coppinger, and Matt Coppinger. In this special Christmas Eve episode, we explore the power of being present with our children and families, especially during the holidays. Drawing from John 1:14, "And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us," we discuss how God’s love moves toward us, and how our love should move toward our families—not just by lecturing or ruling over, but by being with them in meaningful ways.Laura and Matt share real-life stories from their journey as parents to both biological and adopted children, highlighting how presence, patience, and offering choices can turn conflict into connection. They offer practical tips for de-escalating tense moments, setting boundaries with love, and creating 10-minute habits that foster deeper relationships—like inviting kids to help in the kitchen or with household tasks, even when it takes longer.This episode challenges us to reflect on our own habits: Are we truly present with our loved ones, or are we distracted? How can we move toward those who are hardest to love, especially during the holidays?Take action with the 4 R’s:Read: John 1:14 – "And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us."Reflect: Consider how God’s presence with us models the way we should be present with our families. Are there moments when you lecture instead of listen? How can you offer choices and connection instead of control?Respond: Pray, "Father, thank you for coming so close to us. Teach me to lead like you—firm in truth, rich in mercy, and always present. Amen."Reveal: Show the truth of this passage by intentionally spending 10 minutes today with a family member or child—especially someone who is hard to reach. Listen to them, help with a task, or simply be present without distractions.For questions or to connect, email Arnie Cole at arnie.cole@bttb.org.Keywords: Christian parenting, family relationships, presence over control, John 1:14, Christmas Eve, foster care, adoption, conflict resolution, parenting tips, Back to the Bible, Arnie Cole, Laura Coppinger, Matt Coppinger, Bible study, Christian family, holiday stress, parenting advice, faith and family, spiritual growth, practical faith, Christian podcast, soul care, parenting with God

Sitting With Someone's Pain: The Hardest Gift You'll Ever Give

Subscribe to get each episode delivered to your Inbox daily: https://bttb.org/subscribe2sftIn this heartfelt episode of Spiritually Fit Today Arnie Cole, Laura Coppinger, and Matt Coppinger explore the power of presence when words and solutions fall short. This conversation centers on John 1:14—"And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us"—and the profound truth that sometimes, simply being there is the greatest gift you can offer.Laura and Matt share their journey as parents to 11 children, including seven adopted from foster care, many of whom have experienced trauma and neurodiversity. They discuss the challenges and rewards of providing consistent love and presence, especially when their children’s pain cannot be fixed with words or money. The episode highlights the importance of avoiding unhelpful phrases and instead offering calm, steady reassurance: "You are safe. I am here with you. Jesus is with us."Arnie, Laura, and Matt reflect on how God’s presence—Emmanuel, "God with us"—brings healing in ways that answers and solutions cannot. They encourage listeners to embrace the ministry of presence, especially for those who are hurting, and to trust that God fills the gaps we cannot.Take action with the 4 R’s:Read: Spend time in John 1:14 and consider what it means for Jesus to dwell among us.Reflect: Think about a time when your presence made a difference in someone’s life, or when someone’s presence comforted you in pain.Respond: Pray, "Jesus, you enter our pain without flinching. Make me brave to sit in someone’s storm and reflect your steady love."Reveal: Reach out to someone who is hurting and let them know, "I can’t fix this, but I’m not leaving." Keep that promise and be a steady presence in their life.For questions or to connect, email Arnie Cole at arnie.cole@bttb.org.Keywords: presence, parenting, trauma, foster care, adoption, neurodiversity, John 1:14, Emmanuel, Christian encouragement, ministry of presence, healing, Back to the Bible, Arnie Cole, Laura Coppinger, Matt Coppinger, spiritual growth, Christian parenting, faith, hope, love, Bible study, prayer, support, encouragement, subscribe

When Your Phone Steals Your Christmas: How to Take It Back

Subscribe to get each episode delivered to your Inbox daily: https://bttb.org/subscribe2sftWelcome to Spiritually Fit Today. Join Arnie Cole, Laura Coppinger, and Matt Coppinger as they explore how to be truly present with your loved ones during the busy Christmas season. In a world full of distractions, especially from our phones and devices, how can we ensure our families remember our presence, not our absence?This episode features practical wisdom from Matt and Laura Coppinger, parents of 11 children, as they share how their family creates intentional moments of connection, like their "mini Sabbath," and how they strive to make each child feel seen and valued. They discuss the challenges of balancing attention among children of different ages and the importance of undivided attention in building strong family bonds.Our key verse for today is John 1:14: "And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us." Christmas is about God choosing to be with us—His presence over presents. Distraction steals the very thing our loved ones crave: undivided attention. Learn how to set boundaries, create awe moments, and make your presence count this season.Take action with the 4 R’s:Read: John 1:14. Reflect on how God came near to us and what it means to be present with those you love.Reflect: Consider the impact of your presence versus your distractions. Are you giving your loved ones your full attention, or is something else getting in the way? Think about how you can create intentional moments of connection, even if it’s just for 15 minutes.Respond: Pray, “Lord, you came near; teach me to come near. Help me trade distraction for presence so someone feels truly loved today.”Reveal: Show someone you care by giving them your full attention—no phone, no hurry. Tell them, “I’m giving you my full attention.” Schedule a time to be fully present with someone you love and let them know they matter.For questions or feedback, contact Arnie Cole at arnie.cole@bttb.org.Keywords: Spiritually Fit Today, Arnie Cole, Laura Coppinger, Matt Coppinger, presence, distraction, family, Christmas, John 1:14, Bible study, Christian parenting, undivided attention, mini Sabbath, foster care, adoption, spiritual growth, Christian podcast, faith, love, connection, prayer, devotional, Back to the Bible

From Rock Bottom to New Creation: The Secret to a God-Sized Comeback

Subscribe to get each episode delivered to your Inbox daily: https://bttb.org/subscribe2sftWelcome to Spiritually Fit Today with your host Arnie Cole, spiritual fitness researcher and coach. In this powerful episode, Arnie is joined by Bruce A. for the final day of our five-day spiritual recovery series. Together, they explore how to write the next chapter of your life after hitting rock bottom, drawing inspiration from 2 Corinthians 5:17: "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come. The old is gone. The new is here." Bruce shares his personal journey of failure, recovery, and spiritual growth, emphasizing that your comeback is not about reclaiming your old life, but about receiving a new one in Christ. Discover how your scars can become signposts of God’s mercy and how your pain can be used to help others.Action Steps – The 4 R’s:Read: Dive into 2 Corinthians 5:17 and reflect on what it means to be a new creation in Christ. Make reading God’s Word a daily habit to strengthen your spiritual fitness.Reflect: Consider the black threads in your life’s tapestry. How has God used your past pain or failures to shape your story and help others? Take a moment to think about how your experiences can be a source of empathy and encouragement.Respond: Pray, “Father, thank you for redeeming my story. Use my life to point others to you. Help me to start today, building habits of grace and gratitude, and to trust you with my next chapter.”Reveal: Be living proof that God restores lives. Share your story of spiritual recovery with someone who needs hope. Encourage others by demonstrating how God’s grace has transformed your life.Remember, spiritual fitness isn’t about perfection—it’s about showing up daily. Start today: read the Bible, reflect on God’s truth, respond in prayer, and reveal His love to others. If this episode encouraged you, share it with someone who needs hope and strength. For questions or to connect, email Arnie at arnie.cole@bttb.org.Keywords: spiritual recovery, new creation, Christian encouragement, Bruce , Arnie Cole, spiritual fitness, Bible study, habits of grace, overcoming failure, Christian podcast, faith journey, 2 Corinthians 5:17, hope after rock bottom, daily devotion, spiritual growth, testimony, Christian life, grace, gratitude, redemption, Back to the Bible

The Powerful Truth About Shame No One Talks About

Subscribe to get each episode delivered to your Inbox daily: https://bttb.org/subscribe2sftWelcome to Spiritually Fit Today with Arnie Cole, your spiritual fitness researcher and coach, joined by Bruce A. In this episode, we tackle the challenge of facing your failures when they’re known by others. Drawing inspiration from Micah 7:8—“Though I have fallen, I will rise. Though I sit in darkness, the Lord will be my light”—Arnie and Bruce discuss how to move from shame to witness, and how God’s plan for you begins with humility and courage, even after public setbacks.Bruce shares his personal journey of overcoming public failure, the role of healthy shame, and the importance of not living in it. He explains how the Serenity Prayer helped him accept what he cannot change, find courage to change what he can, and gain wisdom to know the difference. The conversation explores practical steps for returning to church, confessing sin, and walking humbly after failure. You’ll learn why serving others and focusing on God can help you heal and grow stronger in your faith.Take action with the 4 R’s:Read: Open your Bible to Micah 7:8 and reflect on its promise that God’s light shines even in your darkest moments.Reflect: Ask yourself, “Where have I let shame keep me from God or community? How can I accept God’s forgiveness and move forward?”Respond: Pray, “Lord, help me live honestly, walk humbly, and let your light shine through my scars. Give me the courage to step out of shame and into your grace.”Reveal: Share with someone today, “My failure is not final. God is restoring me.” Let your story encourage others who may be struggling with their own setbacks.Remember, spiritual fitness isn’t about perfection—it’s about showing up daily. Celebrate the step you took today, and if this episode encouraged you, share it with someone who needs hope and strength. For questions or to connect, email Arnie at arnie.cole@bttb.org.Keywords: spiritual fitness, overcoming failure, shame and forgiveness, Christian encouragement, Micah 7:8, Arnie Cole, Bruce A., faith after failure, Christian podcast, spiritual growth, daily devotion, Bible reflection, Christian recovery, church community, spiritual healing, Christian testimony, Back to the Bible

Bible Burnout: When You Feel Nothing but Still Need God

Subscribe to get each episode delivered to your Inbox daily: https://bttb.org/subscribe2sftWhat do you do when opening the Bible feels like opening an empty box? Join Arnie Cole, your spiritual fitness researcher and coach, and special guest Bruce A. as they dive into the real struggles of spiritual burnout and rediscovering the power of God's Word. In this episode of Spiritually Fit Today, Arnie and Bruce share honest stories of spiritual numbness, practical steps for renewal, and how to make Bible reading a life-changing habit—even when you don't feel like it. Today's focus is Hebrews 4:12: "For the word of God is alive and active." Scripture isn't just information—it's oxygen for your soul. If your heart feels numb, God's Word can revive you, one breath at a time.Take action with the 4 R's:Read: Open your Bible each morning, even if you don't feel inspired. Start with Hebrews 4:12 and let the words sink in.Reflect: Ask yourself, "How can I let God's Word become more than just information? What habits can I put in place to let it shape my life, even when I feel distant?"Respond: Pray, "Lord, meet me in your word. Let it come alive again in me and give me those Holy Spirit opportunities like I've never had before."Reveal: Share what you learned or experienced with someone else today. Encourage a friend, family member, or small group by telling them how God's Word is reviving you, even in tough times.Remember, spiritual fitness isn't about perfection—it's about showing up daily. Celebrate every small step, and if this episode encouraged you, share it with someone who needs hope and strength. For questions or to connect, email Arnie at arnie.cole@bttb.org.Keywords: spiritual burnout, Bible reading, spiritual renewal, Arnie Cole, Bruce A., Hebrews 4:12, spiritual fitness, Christian encouragement, daily devotion, habits of grace, overcoming numbness, God's Word, faith recovery, Back to the Bible, spiritual growth, Holy Spirit opportunities

The Episode Every “Spiritual Failure” Needs to Hear

Subscribe to get each episode delivered to your Inbox daily: https://bttb.org/subscribe2sftIf you’ve ever thought, “God’s done with me,” this episode is exactly what you need. Join Arnie Cole, your spiritual fitness researcher and coach, and special guest Bruce A. as they dive deep into the real experience of grace—not just the word, but the life-changing reality. Today on Spiritually Fit, we explore Romans 8:1: “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” Whether you’re struggling with guilt, shame, or the feeling that your past disqualifies you, this conversation will help you understand that grace isn’t God’s second chance—it’s His only chance, and it’s for everyone.Bruce shares his personal journey from addiction and public failure to finding true forgiveness and a renewed purpose. Together, Arnie and Bruce discuss how to move beyond guilt, own your mistakes, and build daily habits that remind you of God’s unending grace. They address the challenge of forgiving yourself, the importance of confession, and how God redeems—not erases—your past.Take action with the 4 R’s:Read: Open your Bible to Romans 8:1 and reflect on the promise that there is no condemnation for those in Christ Jesus.Reflect: Ask yourself, “What guilt or shame am I holding onto that God has already forgiven?” Consider how grace can redeem your story, not erase it.Respond: Pray, “Father, thank You for the grace that is real. Even when I don’t feel I deserve it, teach me to live as someone truly forgiven.”Reveal: Share today’s message with someone who needs hope. Tell them, “There’s no condemnation left for me—and there’s none left for you, either.” Encourage them to take a step toward spiritual fitness.Remember, spiritual fitness isn’t about perfection—it’s about showing up daily. Celebrate the step you took today, and if this episode encouraged you, share it with someone who needs hope and strength. For questions or to connect, email Arnie at arnie.cole@bttb.org.Join us tomorrow as Arnie and Bruce talk about getting back into the Word, even when your heart feels numb. What you do today truly matters—and tomorrow, you’ll be glad you did.Keywords: grace, forgiveness, Romans 8:1, spiritual fitness, Arnie Cole, Bruce A., Christian encouragement, overcoming guilt, no condemnation, daily devotional, Bible study, recovery, Christian podcast, spiritual growth, hope, redemption, backtothebible

Your World Just Shattered. Now What?

Subscribe to get each episode delivered to your Inbox daily: https://bttb.org/subscribe2sftWhen your world shatters—your marriage, job, health, or even your faith—what if that's not the end, but the moment God begins to rebuild your life? Join Arnie Cole, your spiritual fitness researcher and coach, on Spiritually Fit Today as he welcomes Bruce A., a businessman with a powerful story of loss, brokenness, and spiritual recovery. In this episode, Arnie and Bruce dive deep into what it really looks like to start over when everything falls apart, sharing honest struggles, biblical wisdom, and hope for anyone feeling crushed in spirit.This week’s focus is on spiritual recovery, featuring Psalm 34:18: "The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit." Bruce shares his personal journey through failure, addiction, and loss, and how God’s grace met him in his lowest moments. Together, Arnie and Bruce discuss how spiritual fitness is built not on perfection, but on daily steps of faith—even when you feel like you’ve blown it.Take action with the 4 R’s:Read: Open your Bible to Psalm 34:18 and read about God’s nearness to the brokenhearted.Reflect: Take five minutes to list what’s fallen apart in your life. Next to each item, write “God is not done.” Consider how God might be rebuilding you through your brokenness.Respond: Pray—“Lord, thank you for being near when everything falls apart. Help me stop hiding my pain and start handing it to you. Remind me that I am not alone and that you are not finished with my story.”Reveal: Share today’s message or your own story of God’s faithfulness with someone who needs hope. Encourage them that brokenness is not the end, but the beginning of God’s rebuilding.Remember, spiritual fitness isn’t about perfection—it’s about showing up daily. Celebrate the step you took today, and if this episode encouraged you, share it with someone who needs hope and strength. For questions or to connect, email Arnie at arnie.cole@bttb.org.Keywords: spiritual recovery, brokenness, faith, hope, rebuilding, Christian encouragement, Psalm 34:18, Arnie Cole, Bruce A., Spiritually Fit Today, spiritual fitness, overcoming failure, God’s grace, Christian podcast, Back to the Bible, daily devotion, Bible study, prayer, Christian testimony, second chances, healing, restoration, encouragement, Christian life, spiritual growth
 

Jesus Is Coming Soon—Here’s What That Really Means

Subscribe to get each episode delivered to your Inbox daily: https://bttb.org/subscribe2sftJoin Arnie Cole, your spiritual fitness researcher and coach as he concludes this week’s Spiritually Fit Today podcast. Discover why the promise of Jesus’ return isn’t just a prediction—it’s a call to live with purpose, hope, and faithfulness every day. This episode recaps the week’s highlights: the importance of being ready for the rapture, the courage found in Christ’s second coming, the value of spiritual leadership in light of the millennium, and the hope of eternal reward. Learn how every act of faithfulness matters and how your daily choices echo into eternity.Take action with the 4 R’s:Read: Dive into Revelation 22:12—“Behold, I am coming soon! My reward is with me, and I will give to each person according to what they have done.” Spend time in God’s Word to strengthen your spiritual fitness.Reflect: Consider how the promise of Jesus’ return shapes your priorities. Are you living each day with eternity in mind? What steps can you take to stay spiritually alert and faithful?Respond: Pray—Lord Jesus, thank you for the promise that you are coming soon and that you notice every act of faith. Help me train my heart to be ready, courageous, and faithful until you call me home.Reveal: Share today’s message with someone who needs encouragement. Tell them how the hope of Christ’s return motivates you to live with purpose and invite them to join you in spiritual fitness.Remember, spiritual fitness is built one decision at a time. Celebrate your progress, encourage others, and keep your eyes on eternity. If this episode encouraged you, share it and comment below how you’re staying spiritually fit. For questions or to connect, email Arnie at arnie.cole@bttb.org.Keywords: Jesus is coming soon, spiritual fitness, Arnie Cole, Harold Berry, Revelation 22:12, end times, Christian encouragement, faithfulness, Bible study, spiritual growth, hope, eternity, second coming, rapture, Christian leadership, daily devotion, prayer, Christian podcast, Back to the Bible