Spiritually Fit Today

This One Shift Will Grow Your Faith Like Nothing Else

Subscribe to get each episode delivered to your Inbox daily: https://bttb.org/subscribe2sftJoin Arnie Cole, Braden Pedersen, and Bruce Ashford on Spiritually Fit Today as they dive into the real meaning of spiritual growth. This episode challenges the idea that you need more Bible studies before you can obey—what you really need is one step of faith. Discover how to balance head knowledge, heart passion, and hands-on action as you follow Christ, and learn why spiritual fitness is about showing up every day, not achieving perfection.This week’s focus is on Ephesians 6:13 and 1 Thessalonians 5:11—putting on the full armor of God and encouraging one another. The discussion explores the difference between knowing Scripture and living it out, the dangers of pursuing knowledge for its own sake, and the importance of applying what you learn in your daily life. Whether you’re a pastor, business owner, or just starting your faith journey, you’ll find practical wisdom and encouragement to step into the spiritual battlefield.Take action with the 4 R’s:Read: Open your Bible to Ephesians 6:13 and 1 Thessalonians 5:11. Reflect on what it means to put on the armor of God and to build others up.Reflect: Ask yourself, “How can I apply this passage today? Am I balancing head knowledge, heart passion, and hands-on action in my walk with Christ?”Respond: Pray—“Lord, thank you for every truth I’ve learned this week. Don’t let me keep it locked in. Help me run, serve, and obey—not someday, but today.”Reveal: Share what you’ve learned with someone else. Encourage a friend, pray for someone, or take a step to serve in your community. Show the light of Christ through your actions.Remember, you don’t need a seminary degree or perfect knowledge to make a difference. What matters is taking the next step of faith and living out what you believe. Celebrate your progress, and if this episode encouraged you, share it with someone who needs hope and strength.For questions or feedback, contact Arnie Cole at arnie.cole@bttb.org.Keywords: spiritual fitness, Arnie Cole, Braden Pedersen, Bruce Ashford, Ephesians 6:13, 1 Thessalonians 5:11, Bible study, Christian living, faith in action, spiritual growth, head heart hands, armor of God, encouragement, discipleship, daily devotion, Christian podcast, Back to the Bible, spiritual habits, obedience, Christian encouragement, practical faith, living your faith, spiritual discipline, Christian motivation, step of faith, spiritual journey, apply scripture, Christian community, share your faith, prayer, Bible application, Christian action, spiritual reps, faith over knowledge, Christian inspiration
 
 

God DIdn't Give You Armor To Polish...He Gave It For War

Subscribe to get each episode delivered to your Inbox daily: https://bttb.org/subscribe2sftIn this episode of Spiritually Fit Today, join Arnie Cole, Braden Pedersen, and Bruce Ashford as they dive into the powerful message: "Armor is for soldiers, not for polishing in private." Drawing from Ephesians 6:13-17, the discussion explores why the armor of God is meant for action, not just knowledge. The panel unpacks the dangers of spiritual stagnation, the pitfalls of knowledge without engagement, and the importance of balancing grace and truth as followers of Christ.Arnie, Braden, and Bruce share personal stories and practical wisdom on how to move beyond simply consuming Scripture to living it out daily. They emphasize that spiritual fitness is about more than head knowledge—it's about stepping into the spiritual battle, sharing your faith, and letting God's word transform your actions.Take action today with the 4 R's:Read: Open your Bible to Ephesians 6:13-17 and reflect on the full armor of God.Reflect: Consider how you might be storing up knowledge without putting it into practice. Ask yourself, "Am I using what I learn to impact others?"Respond: Pray, "Lord, I don't want to live over-equipped and under-engaged. Help me put on your armor, not for show, but for the spiritual fight you've called me to today."Reveal: Share with someone what you've learned and ask them to hold you accountable for living out your faith. Be willing to speak about the hope within you, even if it feels uncomfortable.Remember, spiritual fitness isn't about perfection—it's about showing up every day and taking one step closer to Christ. If this episode encouraged you, share it with someone who needs hope and strength. For questions or feedback, contact Arnie at arnie.cole@bttb.org.Keywords: Armor of God, Ephesians 6, spiritual fitness, Arnie Cole, Braden Pedersen, Bruce Ashford, Christian living, faith in action, Bible study, spiritual growth, grace and truth, discipleship, daily devotion, spiritual battle, Christian podcast, Back to the Bible

What Happens When Jesus Takes the Throne

Subscribe to get each episode delivered to your Inbox daily: https://bttb.org/subscribe2sftJoin Arnie Cole, your spiritual fitness researcher and coach, along with special guest Harold Berry, as they dive into the promise of Christ’s thousand-year reign from Revelation 20:4-6. In this episode of Spiritually Fit Today, discover how the hope of Jesus’ return shapes our daily walk, leadership, and service. Learn why the book of Revelation is unique in promising a blessing to those who read and obey its words, and how you can pass on spiritual truth to others.Take action with the 4 R’s:Read: Open your Bible to Revelation 20:4-6 and read about the first resurrection and the promise of reigning with Christ.Reflect: Consider how the reality of Jesus’ future reign impacts your choices and leadership today. How does knowing “Jesus wins” change your perspective?Respond: Pray, “Jesus, thank you for the promise of your kingdom. Help me live with purpose now as someone preparing to reign with you in the world to come.”Reveal: Share today’s truth with someone—say out loud or message a friend, “The millennium reminds me that peace and justice won’t come from politics, but from King Jesus, who is coming soon.”Remember, spiritual fitness isn’t about perfection—it’s about showing up daily and letting God shape your soul, one step at a time. If this episode encouraged you, share it with someone who needs hope and strength. For questions or feedback, contact Arnie at arnie.cole@bttb.org.Keywords: Revelation, thousand-year reign, Arnie Cole, Harold Berry, spiritual fitness, Christian leadership, Bible study, daily devotional, Jesus’ return, millennium, Back to the Bible, spiritual growth, Christian encouragement, read reflect respond reveal, Christ follower, spiritual workout, hope, faith, peace, justice, kingdom of God, discipleship, Christian podcast

The Silent Killer Of Faith: Learning Without Living

Subscribe to get each episode delivered to your Inbox daily: https://bttb.org/subscribe2sftIn this episode of Spiritually Fit Today, host Arnie Cole is joined by Braden Pedersen and Bruce Ashford to explore the difference between knowing the Bible and living it out. Focusing on James 1:22, "Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says," the conversation dives into how head knowledge alone can leave us spiritually asleep, and why true spiritual fitness requires daily action.Braden shares practical steps for moving from learning to serving, including the transformative habit of praying that your daily Scripture reading will minister to someone else. Bruce discusses the dangers of letting theology stay locked in your mind and the importance of building habits that turn knowledge into action, sharing his own journey from spiritual stagnation to purposeful living.Take action today with the 4 R’s:Read: Open your Bible and read James 1:22. Let the words sink in—hearing isn’t enough; obedience is the proof of learning.Reflect: Ask yourself, "How can I put this verse into practice today?" Consider writing down one way you’ll live out scripture, even if it’s inconvenient.Respond: Pray, "God, I don’t want to be a hearer only. Help me apply what I know with courage, love, and joy. Teach me to live the word, not just study it."Reveal: Share with someone—maybe a friend, family member, or colleague—how you plan to be a spiritual influence in their life. Ask them to hold you accountable and see what God does through your obedience.Remember, spiritual fitness isn’t about perfection; it’s about showing up every day and taking one step closer to Christ. 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, James 1:22, Bible application, Christian living, Arnie Cole, Braden Pedersen, Bruce Ashford, daily devotion, faith in action, spiritual growth, Christian podcast, back to the Bible, discipleship, living the Word, obedience, Christian encouragement, spiritual habits, Christian accountability, Bible study, Christian maturity, faith journey

How To Know If It's God's Voice...Or Your Imagination

Subscribe to get each episode delivered to your Inbox daily: https://bttb.org/subscribe2sftAre you following the real Jesus or just a version of Him shaped by your imagination? In this episode of the Spiritually Fit Today podcast, host Arnie Cole, along with guests Braden Pedersen and Bruce Ashford, dive deep into the importance of knowing the Jesus of the Bible—not just the Jesus we want Him to be. Discover why grounding your faith in Scripture is essential for spiritual stability and how to avoid the pitfalls of relying solely on feelings or personal interpretations.Together, Arnie, Braden, and Bruce discuss Ephesians 6:14 and the "belt of truth," exploring the balance between head knowledge and heart action. They share practical insights on how to test spiritual promptings against the Bible, the dangers of creating your own version of Jesus, and why both studying scripture and living it out are vital for a strong, authentic faith.Take action with the 4 R’s:Read: Open your Bible and read Ephesians 6:14. Let the "belt of truth" remind you of the importance of God’s Word as your foundation.Reflect: Ask yourself, “Am I following the Jesus of Scripture or a version I’ve created?” Consider how the truth of the Bible shapes your daily decisions.Respond: Pray, “God, don’t let me follow a made-up version of You. Help me know the real Jesus through Your Word and walk in truth, not assumption.”Reveal: Share with a friend or family member what you’re learning. Invite them to read a short Bible passage with you this week, or even start a Bible study together.Remember, spiritual fitness isn’t about perfection—it’s about showing up daily and taking one step at a time. 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: Spiritually Fit Today, Arnie Cole, Braden Pedersen, Bruce Ashford, Ephesians 6:14, belt of truth, Bible study, spiritual fitness, Christian podcast, following Jesus, truth, scripture, head knowledge vs heart knowledge, spiritual growth, daily devotion, back to the Bible, Christian living, faith in action, discernment, knowing God, spiritual discipline, Christian encouragement, Bible truth, how to follow Jesus, Christian coaching, spiritual health, read reflect respond reveal

The #1 Reason Christians Stay Spiritually Weak

Subscribe to get each episode delivered to your Inbox daily: https://bttb.org/subscribe2sftWhat good is putting on the full armor of God if you never step into the battlefield? In this episode of Spiritually Fit Today, host Arnie Cole is joined by Braden Pedersen and Bruce Ashford to explore the balance between biblical knowledge and real-life action. Drawing from Ephesians 6:13, the conversation dives into why it's not enough to simply study God's Word—we must also live it out. Arnie shares his own journey of coming to faith later in life, while Bruce and Braden offer insights from both theological and pastoral perspectives. Together, they discuss the dangers of overtraining in faith without applying it, the importance of equipping the church for action, and how cultural influences can shape (and sometimes distort) our understanding of Jesus.Take action with the 4 R’s:Read: Ephesians 6:13 – "Put on the full armor of God so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand."Reflect: Are you spending more time learning about faith than living it out? Where might God be calling you to move from training to action?Respond: Pray—Father, thank you for every truth you’ve taught me. Give me courage to step out of the classroom and into your calling. Help me stand firm and act on what I know.Reveal: Share with a friend or family member: “Today I realized it’s possible to overtrain in faith and underapply it. I want to shift from equipping only to stepping out.” Ask them where they feel God might be calling them to move from learning to living.Remember, spiritual fitness isn’t about perfection—it’s about showing up daily. Celebrate the step you take today, because what you do today truly matters. If this episode encouraged you, share it with someone who needs hope and strength. For questions or feedback, contact Arnie at arnie.cole@bttb.org. Join us tomorrow for another Spiritually Fit Today workout!Keywords: Ephesians 6:13, full armor of God, spiritual fitness, Arnie Cole, Braden Pedersen, Bruce Ashford, Christian living, faith in action, biblical knowledge, discipleship, spiritual growth, Christian podcast, daily devotion, Back to the Bible, spiritual discipline, living your faith, equipping the church, Christian encouragement, practical Christianity, spiritual training, Christian motivation
 

The Hidden Power Of Generosity No One Talks About

Subscribe to get each episode delivered to your Inbox daily: https://bttb.org/subscribe2sftIn this episode of Spiritually Fit Today, host Arnie Cole welcomes Dr. Rob Rhodes to share an inspiring story of faith in action. Discover how a single medical mission trip to Mexico sparked the creation of Clinic With a Heart, a free clinic in Lincoln, Nebraska, now serving thousands each year. Together, Arnie and Dr. Rhodes discuss the power of giving, the challenges and rewards of serving those in need, and how acts of kindness can transform both giver and receiver. Our scripture focus is Luke 6:38: “Give, and it will be given to you. For with the measure you use, it will be measured back to you.” As you listen, consider how generosity—whether through time, attention, or compassion—can multiply miracles in your own life and community.Take action with the 4 R’s:Read: Open your Bible to Luke 6:38 and read the passage slowly.Reflect: Think about a time when giving—big or small—changed your perspective or someone else’s life. What is God prompting you to do today?Respond: Pray, “Lord, make me generous. Help me give freely as You have given to me. Use my open hands to bring hope to others. Amen.”Reveal: This week, do one anonymous act of kindness—a meal, a note, or a donation—and let generosity be your Thanksgiving tradition. Share your experience in the comments or email Arnie at arnie.cole@bttb.org.Don’t miss the soul pump assignment and practical encouragement to make a difference right where you are. Join us Monday for another Spiritually Fit Today workout, because what you do today truly matters.Keywords: Arnie Cole, Dr. Rob Rhodes, Spiritually Fit Today, Clinic With a Heart, giving, generosity, Christian podcast, Luke 6:38, faith in action, medical missions, kindness, Thanksgiving, spiritual fitness, Back to the Bible, Christian encouragement, volunteer, hope, anonymous kindness, Christian service, Bible reflection, prayer, Christian living, Nebraska, free clinic, serving others, compassion, Christian inspiration, spiritual growth, daily devotional, Christian podcast episode

Finding Gratitude When Your Heart Is Grieving

Subscribe to get each episode delivered to your Inbox daily: https://bttb.org/subscribe2sftIn this heartfelt Thanksgiving episode of Spiritually Fit Today, host Arnie Cole is joined by Dr. Rob Rhodes to address the difficult topic of empty chairs around the holiday table—those moments when loved ones are missing and grief feels especially close. Together, they explore how to fill those empty spaces with hope, gratitude, and the comforting presence of God. Drawing on Psalm 34:18, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit,” Arnie and Dr. Rhodes offer practical and spiritual guidance for navigating loss, loneliness, and the complex emotions that surface during the holidays.Dr. Rhodes shares insights on the grieving process, the importance of community, and how to honor memories while moving forward. They discuss the power of acknowledging emotions like anger and sadness, and the value of reaching out to others who may also be struggling. Whether you’re facing your first holiday after a loss or supporting someone who is, this episode provides encouragement and actionable steps to find hope and healing.Take action with the 4 R’s:Read: Spend time with Psalm 34:18 and John 11:35 (“Jesus wept”). Let these verses remind you of God’s nearness in your grief.Reflect: Consider the empty chairs in your life. What memories or emotions do they bring up? How can you invite God’s comfort into those spaces?Respond: Pray, “Lord, thank you that you draw near to the brokenhearted. Fill the empty chairs and hearts with your presence, and help me to find hope in you today.”Reveal: Reach out to someone spending the holidays alone. Remind them that God hasn’t forgotten them—and neither have you. Share this episode or a word of encouragement to bring hope to someone else.If you have thoughts or want to answer today’s question—why did Jesus weep?—email Arnie at arnie.cole@bttb.org.Remember, spiritual fitness isn’t about perfection; it’s about showing up daily. Celebrate the step you took today, and share this episode with someone who needs hope and strength. New episodes of Spiritually Fit Today are released every weekday.Keywords: Thanksgiving grief, empty chair, Arnie Cole, Dr. Rob Rhodes, Spiritually Fit Today, Christian encouragement, Bible hope, Psalm 34:18, Jesus wept, holiday loss, spiritual fitness, Christian podcast, grief support, faith and loss, Christian holidays, Back to the Bible

Why Your Presence Matters More Than Your Advice

Subscribe to get each episode delivered to your Inbox daily: https://bttb.org/subscribe2sftIn this episode of Spiritually Fit Today, Arnie Cole welcomes Dr. Rob Rhodes to discuss how to handle bad news during the holidays and the power of being present for others. Drawing from James 1:19, “Be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry,” Arnie and Dr. Rhodes explore how listening and presence can bring hope and healing, especially in life’s toughest moments. Dr. Rhodes shares his experiences as a physician delivering difficult news, the importance of compassion, and practical ways to support loved ones facing challenges. The conversation highlights how spiritual fitness is built one step at a time, and how our presence can make a lasting impact.Take action with the 4 R’s:Read: Meditate on James 1:19 and consider its relevance during stressful times, especially the holidays.Reflect: Think about a recent conversation where you could have listened more and spoken less. How might that have changed the outcome?Respond: Pray, “Jesus, help us be fully present with the people You've placed around us. May our attention bring Your love to life.”Reveal: At your next meal, put your phone down, make eye contact, ask a meaningful question, and listen without interrupting—showing the love and presence of Christ to those around you.If you know the answer to today’s Bible quiz—Which doctor wrote two books of the New Testament?—send your answer to arnie.cole@bttb.org.Remember, spiritual fitness isn’t about perfection, but about showing up daily. Share this episode with someone who needs hope and encouragement, and join us every weekday for new inspiration.Keywords: Arnie Cole, Dr. Rob Rhodes, Spiritually Fit Today, Christian podcast, spiritual fitness, James 1:19, listening, hope, presence, bad news, holidays, Christian encouragement, Bible study, prayer, faith, Back to the Bible, daily devotional, Christian living, spiritual growth, Christian coaching, compassion, Christian family, Christian doctor, Christian podcast 2025

The Secret To Love Most Christians Forget

Subscribe to get each episode delivered to your Inbox daily: https://bttb.org/subscribe2sftIn this episode of Spiritually Fit Today, Arnie Cole welcomes Dr. Rob Rhodes to share a powerful story about the impact of showing up for others, especially during challenging times like Thanksgiving. Drawing from his childhood on an Iowa farm, Dr. Rob recounts how neighbors came together to help his family during a crisis, demonstrating that love is best shown through action, not just words. Their conversation centers on the biblical truth from 1 John 3:18: “Let us not love with words or speech, but with actions and in truth.” Arnie and Dr. Rob discuss how simple acts of kindness—whether helping with a harvest or offering a heartfelt compliment—can change lives and inspire gratitude. They encourage listeners to move beyond good intentions and take real steps to make a difference in someone’s day.Take action with the 4 R’s:Read: Today’s Scripture is 1 John 3:18—“Let us not love with words or speech, but with actions and in truth.” Take a moment to read and consider this passage.Reflect: Think about a time when someone showed up for you, or when you had the chance to help someone else. How did it feel? What impact did it have? Reflect on how you can be more present and attentive to the needs of those around you.Respond: Pray—“Lord, thank you for people who show up when life hurts. Help me to be that person for someone else this week.”Reveal: Put love into action today. Give a compliment, offer a helping hand, or simply be present for someone in need. Share your experience in the comments or email Arnie at arnie.cole@bttb.org.Don’t forget the quiz question: Who did Paul write about in 2 Timothy who “often refreshed me and was not ashamed of my chains”? If you know the answer, leave a comment or send an email!Remember, spiritual fitness isn’t about perfection—it’s about showing up daily. What you do today truly matters. If this episode encouraged you, share it with someone who needs hope and strength. New episodes of Spiritually Fit Today are released every weekday.Keywords: Arnie Cole, Dr. Rob Rhodes, Spiritually Fit Today, Christian podcast, spiritual fitness, showing up, acts of kindness, gratitude, Thanksgiving, 1 John 3:18, Bible study, Christian encouragement, faith in action, love in action, Christian living, daily devotion, backtothebible, Arnie Cole email, Christian stories, inspiration, helping others, pay it forward, Christian community, spiritual growth, practical faith, Christian motivation, daily Bible, Christian podcast 2025