Spiritually Fit Today

Feeling Heavy This Holiday? Here’s the Hope You Need.

Subscribe to get each episode delivered to your Inbox daily: https://bttb.org/subscribe2sftAre you feeling stressed by the holidays? Ignite hope and discover how gratitude can transform your outlook and bring healing! In this episode of Spiritually Fit Today, host Arnie Cole welcomes Dr. Rob Rhoades—physician, author, and speaker—to share powerful insights on how gratitude rewires your brain for unbreakable joy, even in tough times. Drawing from personal stories of growing up on a farm, Dr. Rhoades explains how a thankful heart can shift your perspective, reduce stress, and foster resilience during the holiday season.Together, Arnie and Dr. Rhoades discuss practical ways to cultivate gratitude, the science behind how kindness and positivity affect your brain chemistry, and how faith can help you navigate difficult emotions. Whether you’re facing loneliness, family challenges, or just the holiday blues, this episode offers encouragement and actionable steps to find hope and healing.Take action with the 4 R’s:Read: Today’s verse is 1 Thessalonians 5:18—“Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” Read this passage and let it sink in.Reflect: Think about a time when gratitude changed your perspective or helped you through a difficult moment. How can you reframe your current challenges with thankfulness?Respond: Pray—“Lord, thank you for every good gift. Teach me to see your blessings even in the messiness of life. Help me to cultivate a heart of gratitude, no matter my circumstances.”Reveal: Share your gratitude! Write down three small blessings each day this week and tell someone about them. Encourage a friend or family member to do the same, or share your answer to today’s quiz question in the comments: “A joyful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.” (Can you name the book of the Bible this comes from? Leave your answer below or email arnie.cole@bttb.org.)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. New episodes of Spiritually Fit Today release every weekday—take your step today, and tomorrow you’ll be glad you did.Keywords: gratitude, holiday stress, Christian podcast, Arnie Cole, Dr. Rob Rhoades, spiritual fitness, Bible encouragement, healing, joy, Thanksgiving, faith, kindness, positivity, mental health, neuroscience, hope, prayer, Bible verse, Christian encouragement, Back to the Bible, Spiritually Fit Today

Going From “Unlikely to Succeed” to Leading Others

Subscribe to get each episode delivered to your Inbox daily: https://bttb.org/subscribe2sftIn this episode of Spiritually Fit Today, Arnie Cole is joined by comedian Reno Collier to explore the question: Would you rather have talent, genius, education, or persistence? Discover why persistence—especially when rooted in faith in Jesus Christ—can make all the difference in overcoming life’s toughest challenges, including addiction and personal setbacks. Arnie shares his personal journey of overcoming childhood epilepsy and academic struggles, emphasizing how perseverance and a steadfast walk with Christ led to transformation and success. Reno Collier’s testimony highlights the power of sticking with Jesus through trials and using past struggles to help others find hope and recovery.Memory Verse: James 1:12 – “Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.”Take action with the 4 R’s:Read: Dive into James 1:12 and let its promise encourage you to persevere.Reflect: Where is God asking you to keep running, even when you’re tired? Think about areas in your life where persistence is needed.Respond: Pray, “Lord, give me the strength to keep running the race You’ve set before me. Help me encourage others with Your hope and remind them of the eternal rewards You’ve promised. Amen.”Reveal: Encourage someone who’s on the verge of quitting. Remind them of the crown of life promised to those who don’t give up, and share this episode to offer hope and strength.Quiz Question: Who is known as the “Son of Encouragement” in the Bible? (Answer: Barnabas)We want to hear from you! Share what you’ve learned, how we’ve inspired you, or how we can improve the podcast. Leave a comment or 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, because what you do today truly matters. If this episode encouraged you, share it with someone who needs hope and strength. Join us every weekday for a new Spiritually Fit Today workout!Keywords: Arnie Cole, Reno Collier, Spiritually Fit Today, Christian podcast, persistence, perseverance, overcoming addiction, faith, Jesus Christ, Bible study, James 1:12, encouragement, spiritual growth, recovery, hope, Christian encouragement, daily devotional, spiritual fitness, Back to the Bible

Reno Collier Thought Comedy Was His Purpose… Until This Happened.

Subscribe to get each episode delivered to your Inbox daily: https://bttb.org/subscribe2sftIn this episode of Spiritually Fit Today, host Arnie Cole welcomes comedian and recovery advocate Reno Collier for an honest conversation about perseverance, faith, and the power of community. Reno shares his personal journey through addiction and recovery, highlighting how connecting with others and relying on Jesus transformed his life. Together, Arnie and Reno discuss the importance of sharing your story, supporting those who are struggling, and building a safe space where honesty and vulnerability are encouraged.This week’s memory verse is James 1:12: “Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.” The discussion centers on how perseverance is not just for ourselves, but for those God places in our lives. Reno emphasizes the need for community, openness, and the courage to talk about difficult topics like addiction and mental health, all while pointing to the hope found in Christ.Take action with the 4 R’s:Read: Spend time in James 1:12 and reflect on its promise for those who persevere under trial.Reflect: Consider how your own story—struggles and all—can be used by God to encourage someone else this week. Who in your life needs to hear about the hope you’ve found in Jesus?Respond: Pray, “Lord, you’re my Savior each and every day for eternity. Help me press on to Your goal, and may my story always be a reflection of goodness and faithfulness. In Your name we pray. Amen.”Reveal: Look for an opportunity to share your journey with someone who may be struggling. Ask God to guide you to someone who needs encouragement, and let your experience be a source of hope and strength for them.If you have a prayer request, a suggestion, or want to answer today’s quiz question (“Who in the New Testament is known as the ‘Son of Encouragement’?”), email Arnie at arnie.cole@bttb.org.Don’t miss Reno Collier’s own podcast, Alive and Sober with Reno C, for more real conversations about addiction, recovery, and faith.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 encouragement.Keywords: Arnie Cole, Reno Collier, Spiritually Fit Today, Christian podcast, perseverance, recovery, addiction, faith, community, James 1:12, Bible study, encouragement, hope, Jesus, spiritual fitness, Back to the Bible, Alive and Sober, Reno C, Christian encouragement, overcoming trials, testimony, prayer, daily devotion, Christian recovery, support, mental health, share your story, Christian community, spiritual growth, Bible reflection, Christian living, inspiration, Christian support, faith journey, Christian podcast 2025

The Truth About Staying Sober No One Talks About

Subscribe to get each episode delivered to your Inbox daily: https://bttb.org/subscribe2sftIn this episode of the Spiritually Fit Today podcast, host Arnie Cole is joined by comedian and recovery advocate Reno Collier for a powerful conversation about perseverance, faith, and overcoming addiction. Together, they explore what it means to fight the daily battle of recovery, how focusing on Jesus transforms the struggle, and why spiritual fitness is a journey taken one step at a time. Reno shares his personal story of battling alcoholism, the importance of daily connection with God, and how serving others brings true fulfillment. Arnie and Reno discuss the reality of spiritual warfare, the ongoing need for grace, and practical ways to stay spiritually strong even when life gets tough.This week’s memory verse is James 1:12: “Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.”Take action with the 4 R’s:Read: Spend time in James 1:12 and reflect on its promise for those who persevere.Reflect: Consider where you need God’s grace most right now. How has God met you in your struggles?Respond: Pray, “Dear God, thank You for Your unfailing faithfulness. Open my heart to let Your grace in and show me who to share it with today.”Reveal: Share with a friend how God’s grace has helped you when you fell short, and encourage them in their own journey.Don’t miss Reno’s own podcast, Alive and Sober with Reno C, for more hope-filled conversations about addiction and recovery. If you have a prayer request, answer to today’s quiz, or want to share your story, 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.Keywords: Arnie Cole, Reno Collier, Spiritually Fit Today, Christian podcast, addiction recovery, perseverance, faith, spiritual fitness, James 1:12, Bible study, daily devotion, overcoming addiction, grace, hope, sobriety, Alive and Sober, Christian encouragement, spiritual growth, prayer, Back to the Bible

He Had Everything, So Why Was He Falling Apart?

Subscribe to get each episode delivered to your Inbox daily: https://bttb.org/subscribe2sft Join Arnie Cole, your spiritual fitness researcher and coach, and special guest comedian Reno Collier on today’s episode of the Spiritually Fit Today podcast. Together, they dive deep into the real meaning of perseverance—not pretending to be strong, but trusting the One who truly is. Reno shares his powerful story of success, addiction, recovery, and the people who stood by him through his darkest times. Discover how faith, honesty, and community can transform your life, and why spiritual fitness is about showing up daily, not being perfect. This week’s memory verse is James 1:12: “Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.” Take action with the 4 R’s: Read: Open your Bible and read James 1:12. Let the words sink in and consider what perseverance means in your own life. Reflect: Who stood by you when you were at your lowest? How did their support impact you? Think about how God and others have persevered with you. Respond: Pray—“Dear heavenly Father, thank You for those who have encouraged and supported me throughout my life. Open my eyes to someone who needs my help and empower me to stand by them.” Reveal: Reach out and thank those who stood by you—write a note, send a text, or make a call. Look for someone who needs your support today and be there for them. Don’t miss the Benzy quick quiz: What man continued praying to God three times a day even after being ordered to stop? Leave your answer or a prayer request in the comments or email arnie.cole@bttb.org. If you enjoyed today’s discussion, check out Reno Collier’s podcast, Alive and Sober with Reno C, for more stories of hope and overcoming addiction. Remember, spiritual fitness isn’t about perfection—it’s about taking one step, one choice, one spiritual rep at a time. Celebrate the progress you make today, because what you do today truly matters. Share this episode with someone who needs encouragement, and join us tomorrow for another Spiritually Fit Today workout! Keywords: Arnie Cole, Reno Collier, Spiritually Fit Today, Christian podcast, perseverance, faith, recovery, addiction, hope, Bible study, James 1:12, spiritual fitness, Christian encouragement, daily devotion, prayer, support, Christian community, overcoming trials, Christian inspiration, Reno Collier podcast, Alive and Sober, backtothebible

Reno Collier’s Path to Surrender and Real Change

Subscribe to get each episode delivered to your Inbox daily: https://bttb.org/subscribe2sftJoin Arnie Cole, your spiritual fitness researcher and coach, on the Spiritually Fit Today podcast as he welcomes comedian Reno Collier for an honest and inspiring conversation about perseverance, surrender, and spiritual growth. In this episode, Arnie and Reno discuss the realities of pursuing a career in comedy, the challenges of addiction, and the importance of loving what you do while learning to surrender your struggles to God. Reno shares his journey from living out of his car to finding success on TV, and how his path to sobriety and faith has shaped his life and career.Today's memory verse is James 4:7: "Submit yourselves then to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you." Arnie and Reno explore what it means to stop pretending, start surrendering, and persevere in the right direction. They challenge listeners to consider what areas of life need to be surrendered to God and offer practical steps for spiritual fitness.Take action with the 4 R's:Read: Spend time with James 4:7 and let its message sink in.Reflect: Ask yourself, "What area of my life do I need to stop managing and start surrendering to God?"Respond: Pray, "God, help me surrender the areas of my life I’m holding onto. Guide me step by step into trusting You."Reveal: Share with someone you trust what you’re turning over to God today and ask them to pray for you.Don’t miss the quiz question: Which New Testament man went from boldly declaring he’d never disown Jesus to denying Him, then humbly repented and surrendered to God? Share your answer in the comments or email arnie.cole@bttb.org.If you enjoyed this episode, check out Reno Collier’s podcast, Alive and Sober with Reno C., for more stories of hope and recovery. Remember, spiritual fitness isn’t about perfection—it’s about showing up daily. Celebrate your progress and share this episode with someone who needs encouragement.Keywords: Arnie Cole, Reno Collier, Spiritually Fit Today, Christian podcast, perseverance, surrender, addiction recovery, spiritual growth, James 4:7, Bible study, faith, hope, comedy, sobriety, Christian encouragement, daily devotional, spiritual fitness, Back to the Bible, Reno Collier podcast, Alive and Sober, Christian motivation, prayer, Bible reflection, Christian living, overcoming addiction, trusting God, Christian inspiration
 

Why Mentoring Someone Might Change Your Life Too

Subscribe to get each episode delivered to your Inbox daily: https://bttb.org/subscribe2sftJoin Arnie Cole, your spiritual fitness researcher and coach, on Spiritually Fit Today as he explores the power of building up young people and how mentoring others can transform your own spiritual journey. In this wrap-up Friday episode, Arnie shares five compelling reasons to mentor beyond your family, drawing from both research and personal experience on his horse ranch. Discover how investing in the next generation not only impacts their lives but also brings fulfillment, enhances your leadership skills, expands your professional network, and offers fresh perspectives. Arnie emphasizes that encouragement is a spiritual discipline, not a random act, and challenges you to make a difference in someone’s life today.4 R’s for Spiritual Growth:Read: Dive into 1 Thessalonians 5:11 – “Therefore, encourage one another and build one another up just as you are doing.”Reflect: Consider how your words and actions can build up those around you, especially young people who may be facing challenges and loneliness in a tech-driven world.Respond: Pray, “Lord, help me to see those who need encouragement today. Give me the wisdom and compassion to build others up and reflect Your love in my actions.”Reveal: Reach out to someone—text, call, or tell them, “You matter more than you know. I see God at work in you.” Show the truth of God’s Word by being a source of hope and encouragement.Arnie also shares the story of Mordecai and Esther, reminding us that mentorship can change destinies. Whether you’re young or old, you have a vital role in God’s plan. Share your thoughts, prayer requests, or ideas for future episodes by emailing arnie.cole@bttb.org or calling 800-811-2387.Before you go, remember: spiritual fitness is about showing up daily, not perfection. Celebrate your progress, share this episode with someone who needs encouragement, and join us Monday for another Spiritually Fit Today workout—because what you do today truly matters.Keywords: Arnie Cole, Spiritually Fit Today, Christian mentoring, spiritual fitness, encouragement, youth ministry, Bible study, 1 Thessalonians 5:11, Christian podcast, building up others, faith in action, Back to the Bible, daily devotion, Christian leadership, prayer, discipleship, Christian encouragement, spiritual growth, mentoring young people, Christian living, hope, inspiration

The Lie That Keeps You from Making a Difference

Subscribe to get each episode delivered to your Inbox daily: https://bttb.org/subscribe2sftIn this episode of Spiritually Fit Today, Arnie Cole, your spiritual fitness coach, is joined by youth expert Caleb White to discuss how ordinary people can make an extraordinary impact in the lives of young people. You don’t have to be perfect or have all the answers—God uses everyday people to build up the next generation. Arnie and Caleb share practical steps for connecting with college and high school students, overcoming hesitancy to mentor, and the power of simple encouragement. They also address tough topics like how to respond when a young person is struggling, and how to avoid being judgmental while building authentic relationships.Take action with the 4 R’s:Read: 1 Thessalonians 5:11 – “Therefore, encourage one another and build one another up just as you are doing.”Reflect: Consider how God can use your ordinary actions—like inviting a student to lunch or offering a word of encouragement—to make a lasting difference. What small step can you take today to invest in someone younger?Respond: Pray, “Lord, help me to see the opportunities around me to encourage and support the next generation. Give me courage to show up, listen, and love as You do.”Reveal: Demonstrate the truth of this passage by reaching out to a young person this week—ask about their day, attend their event, or simply offer a listening ear. Your presence and encouragement can be life-changing.If you have questions, prayer requests, or topics you’d like us to cover, email Arnie at arnie.cole@bttb.org or call 800-811-2387. Don’t forget to share this episode with someone who needs hope and encouragement. Join us tomorrow for another spiritual workout—because what you do today truly matters!Keywords: Arnie Cole, Caleb White, Spiritually Fit Today, mentoring youth, Christian encouragement, spiritual fitness, 1 Thessalonians 5:11, youth ministry, Christian podcast, building faith, mentoring college students, mentoring high school students, Christian mentorship, spiritual growth, back to the Bible, practical faith, Christian living, encouragement, prayer, Bible study, discipleship, Christian relationships, faith in action, hope, support, next generation, Christian coaching, spiritual development, Christian community, youth support, Christian advice, faith journey

How to Fight Loneliness in the Digital Age

Subscribe to get each episode delivered to your Inbox daily: https://bttb.org/subscribe2sftIn this episode of Spiritually Fit Today, Arnie Cole, your spiritual fitness researcher and coach, is joined by Caleb White to tackle the growing epidemic of loneliness among teens in our hyper-connected digital world. Despite being more "connected" than ever, young people are experiencing unprecedented levels of isolation, anxiety, and disconnection. Arnie and Caleb discuss the impact of social media, addictive algorithms, shrinking attention spans, and the rise of AI on relationships and spiritual health. They explore how real love and genuine human presence can break through digital isolation, and why mentorship, encouragement, and face-to-face connection are more vital than ever.Memory Verse: 1 Thessalonians 5:11 – "Therefore, encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing." This episode emphasizes the urgent need to encourage and support the next generation, helping them feel seen and known beyond the screen.Soul Pump Assignment: Teens may be more connected than ever, but they’re also lonelier than any generation before. Be the real presence in someone’s life—reach out to a young person who may feel unseen or unnoticed. A simple text, call, or check-in can make a world of difference.Take Action with the 4 R’s:Read: Dive into 1 Thessalonians 5:11. Let God’s Word remind you of the power of encouragement and community.Reflect: Consider how digital habits may be affecting your own relationships and those of the young people around you. Are you building others up, or just scrolling by?Respond: Pray—"Lord, help me to be a source of real encouragement and love to those who feel alone. Give me eyes to see who needs a friend today, and the courage to reach out."Reveal: Demonstrate the truth of this passage by intentionally connecting with someone younger. Share a word of encouragement, listen to their story, or invite them to spend time together offline.Quiz Question: Four young men in the Bible stuck together through difficult times in a foreign land—who were they? (Hint: One has a book of the Bible named after him.) Share your answer, thoughts, or prayer requests with Arnie at arnie.cole@bttb.org or call 800-811-2387.Before you go, remember: spiritual fitness isn’t about perfection, but about showing up daily. Celebrate the step you took today, and if this episode encouraged you, share it with someone else. Join us tomorrow for another Spiritually Fit Today workout—because what you do today truly matters.Keywords: Arnie Cole, Caleb White, Spiritually Fit Today, teen loneliness, digital isolation, Christian encouragement, Bible study, 1 Thessalonians 5:11, youth mentorship, social media, spiritual fitness, Christian podcast, mental health, AI and relationships, Christian parenting, back to the Bible, daily devotional, faith and technology, building community, Christian teens, spiritual growth
 

Mentorship vs. The Algorithm: Who’s Winning Their Hearts?

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In this episode of Spiritually Fit Today, Arnie Cole is joined by Caleb White to tackle the challenge of helping young people hear God’s truth in a world filled with digital distractions. Are today’s kids lost in the scroll, surrounded by thousands of voices but missing God’s? Discover how mentors can bring lasting belonging and help the next generation find their true identity in Christ.
 
Arnie and Caleb discuss the staggering statistics on screen time among children and teens, the shift from in-person to online relationships, and practical ways to foster authentic connections. Learn why listening to young people’s stories is more powerful than simply sharing your own, and how genuine relationships open the door for spiritual growth.
 
Memory Verse: 1 Thessalonians 5:11 – “Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing.”
 
Take action with the 4 R’s:
 
Read: Open your Bible and read 1 Thessalonians 5:11. Let God’s Word remind you of the importance of encouragement and building others up.
 
Reflect: Think about the young people in your life. How are they influenced by digital noise? What can you do to help them hear God’s voice above all the distractions?
 
Respond: Pray, “Lord, help me to be a voice of truth and encouragement to the next generation. Give me wisdom to listen well and speak life into those who are searching for belonging.”
 
Reveal: Reach out to a young person today. Listen to their story, remind them of their God-given purpose, and encourage them with God’s truth. Be the mentor who brings real connection in a digital world.
 
Have a question or need prayer? Email Arnie at arnie.cole@bttb.org or call 800-811-2387. Share your thoughts in the comments: Who was the young man woken up by God three times in one night?
 
Don’t forget to subscribe, share this episode, and join us tomorrow for more spiritual workouts. Remember, what you do today truly matters!
 
Keywords: Arnie Cole, Caleb White, Spiritually Fit Today, digital distractions, mentoring youth, screen time, Christian encouragement, Bible study, 1 Thessalonians 5:11, spiritual fitness, youth ministry, belonging, identity in Christ, prayer, Back to the Bible, Christian podcast, faith, relationships, next generation, spiritual growth, Christian mentorship, overcoming digital noise