Spiritually Fit Today

The Power of One-on-One Faith: How Mentorship Changes Lives

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 special guest Caleb White, youth director and spiritual growth coach, to discuss the life-changing power of one-on-one mentorship. Discover how Jesus mentored twelve and changed the world—and how you can start making a difference in the life of just one teen. Caleb shares his journey from growing up in Nebraska to launching The Orchard, a mentorship program helping high school students grow deep roots in their faith. Together, Arnie and Caleb explore why spiritual growth happens best in relationships, how to move from head knowledge to heart transformation, and practical ways to encourage and disciple the next generation.Take action with the 4 R’s:Read: Dive into this week’s memory verse, 1 Thessalonians 5:11—“Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing.”Reflect: Think about who has mentored you in your faith journey. How did their encouragement impact your walk with Jesus?Respond: Pray, “Lord, thank You for those who have encouraged me in my faith. Help me to be an encourager and mentor to someone younger in their walk with You.”Reveal: Reach out to a younger person today and let them know you’re available to talk about faith. Be the mentor you once needed.Don’t forget to answer today’s quiz question: In the book of Joshua, what event were the children to be reminded about when they asked, “What does this mean?” (Hint: It’s early in the book!) Leave your answer in the comments or email arnie.cole@bttb.org. For prayer requests or to share your story, contact us at 800-811-2387.Remember, spiritual fitness is about showing up daily—one step, one choice, one spiritual rep at a time. Share this episode with someone who needs encouragement, and join us tomorrow for another Spiritually Fit Today workout!Keywords: Arnie Cole, Caleb White, Spiritually Fit Today, Christian mentorship, youth discipleship, spiritual growth, Bible study, 1 Thessalonians 5:11, faith encouragement, Back to the Bible, The Orchard, Christian podcast, spiritual fitness, mentoring teens, discipleship relationships, Christian living, daily devotionals, prayer, Bible encouragement, Christian youth ministry

You Might Be the Only Bible Someone Ever Reads

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 shares three practical ways to deliver God’s message and make your everyday life a sermon of hope and love. In this episode, Arnie explores 2 Corinthians 3:2–3, reminding us that we are living letters from Christ—our actions and words are God’s message to the world. Through inspiring stories and personal reflection, Arnie encourages you to recognize the impact you have on others, even when you don’t realize it.Take action with the 4 R’s:Read: Dive into 2 Corinthians 3:2–3 and let God’s Word shape your heart.Reflect: Consider how your daily interactions can reveal Christ’s love. Who has God placed in your life for you to encourage or support?Respond: Pray, “Lord, help me to be a living letter of Your love. Let my actions and words reflect Your hope and grace to those around me.”Reveal: Share God’s message today—send an uplifting text, quote 2 Corinthians 3:2–3 to someone, or simply show kindness in your community.Remember, spiritual fitness is about showing up daily and letting your life be a testimony of God’s love. If this episode encouraged you, share it with someone who needs hope and strength. Have thoughts or want to share what you learned? Email Arnie at arnie.cole@bttb.org or leave a comment below.Keywords: Arnie Cole, Spiritually Fit Today, spiritual fitness, 2 Corinthians 3:2–3, Christian encouragement, living God’s message, hope, love, Bible study, daily devotion, Christian podcast, Back to the Bible, faith in action, spiritual growth, Christian living, inspiration, gratitude, prayer, kindness, share God’s love

He Didn’t Speak to His Dad for 20 Years… Then God Moved.

Subscribe to get each episode delivered to your Inbox daily: https://bttb.org/subscribe2sftJoin Arnie Cole, your spiritual fitness researcher and coach, and special guest Brian Meyer on Spiritually Fit Today as they explore what it means to move beyond religion and embrace a real relationship with Jesus. In this episode, Arnie and Brian discuss how spiritual fitness is not about following rules or rituals, but about letting God write His love on your heart. Brian shares his personal journey from routine church attendance to a living faith, and how forgiveness and reconciliation transformed his family relationships. Together, they reflect on 2 Corinthians 3:2–3 and the importance of living out God’s love in everyday life.Take action with the 4 R’s:Read: Dive into 2 Corinthians 3:2–3 and discover how God’s message is written on your heart, not just on stone tablets.Reflect: Consider how God’s grace has softened your heart. Is there someone you need to forgive or a relationship that needs healing? Think about how your faith is more than just habits—it’s a living relationship.Respond: Pray, “Lord, thank You for writing Your love and forgiveness on my heart. Help me to let go of pride, stubbornness, and anything that keeps me from a real relationship with You. Shape my heart to reflect Your compassion and mercy.”Reveal: Show God’s love to someone today. Offer forgiveness, perform an act of kindness, or share encouragement. Let your actions demonstrate the truth of God’s Word written on your heart.Don’t forget to answer the quiz question in the comments: Who said, “To obey is better than sacrifice”? Or email your answer to arnie.cole@bttb.org.Remember, spiritual fitness isn’t about perfection—it’s about showing up daily and letting God transform you, one step at a time. Share this episode with someone who needs hope and encouragement, and come back tomorrow for another soul-strengthening workout.Keywords: Arnie Cole, Brian Meyer, Spiritually Fit Today, spiritual fitness, relationship with Jesus, forgiveness, Bible study, 2 Corinthians 3:2–3, Christian podcast, daily devotional, faith, compassion, reconciliation, spiritual growth, Back to the Bible, Arnie Cole email, Christian encouragement, living faith, heart transformation, Bible memory verse, Christian YouTube, spiritual habits, grace, kindness, Christian living

The Secret to Unshakable Faith in a Temporary World

Subscribe to get each episode delivered to your Inbox daily: https://bttb.org/subscribe2sftWant your faith to outlast the storms of life? Join Arnie Cole, your spiritual fitness coach, and special guest Brian Meyer on Spiritually Fit Today as they explore five practical ways to let the Holy Spirit write something on your heart that no hardship can erase. This episode dives into 2 Corinthians 3:2–3, focusing on how the Spirit of the living God creates lasting change in us—transforming our character and making our faith visible to others.Brian shares real-life stories about living intentionally, showing kindness, and letting the Holy Spirit guide everyday interactions—from coffee shop conversations to starting a house church. Discover how being grounded in Scripture, surrounding yourself with believers, and stepping out of your comfort zone can help you grow spiritually and leave a legacy of faith.Take action with the 4 R’s:Read: Dive into 2 Corinthians 3:2–3 and reflect on what it means to be a letter from Christ, written by the Spirit.Reflect: Identify one character trait the Holy Spirit has transformed in your life. How has this change impacted you and those around you?Respond: Pray, “Holy Spirit, fill me anew. Produce in me one clear fruit of Your presence so that someone else can notice today.”Reveal: Show the fruit of the Spirit to someone today—offer a word of encouragement, share a coffee, or perform an act of kindness that demonstrates Christ’s love.Quiz: Of the fruit of the Spirit—love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control—which do you see most and least in your life? Share your answer in the comments or email Arnie at arnie.cole@bttb.org.Don’t forget: Every spiritual rep matters. Whether you pray, encourage a friend, or open God’s Word, you’re shaping your soul for eternity. Join us again tomorrow for more inspiration with Brian Meyer!Keywords: Arnie Cole, Brian Meyer, Spiritually Fit Today, Holy Spirit, 2 Corinthians 3:2–3, spiritual growth, fruit of the Spirit, Christian encouragement, faith, Bible study, house church, kindness, Christian living, spiritual fitness, Back to the Bible, daily devotional, Christian podcast, spiritual transformation, Christian mentorship, prayer, Christian community

If You Could Erase One Chapter… Would You?

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 Brian Meyer for a powerful conversation about embracing every chapter of your life—even the ones you might wish you could erase. Brian shares his journey of faith, including how living with a disability became a platform for witnessing Christ’s love and grace. Together, Arnie and Brian discuss 2 Corinthians 3:2–3, exploring what it means to be a living letter from Christ, written not with ink but with the Spirit of the living God.Discover how your life story, with all its ups and downs, can be a testimony to God’s grace. Brian’s story challenges us to see our circumstances as opportunities to reflect Jesus to others, and Arnie offers practical steps to grow stronger in your faith, one spiritual rep at a time.Take action with the 4 R’s:Read: Dive into 2 Corinthians 3:2–3 and Ephesians 2:10. Let God’s Word remind you that you are His handiwork, created for a purpose.Reflect: Think about a chapter in your life that you wish you could rewrite. How has Jesus transformed that part of your story? Write a thank-you note to Jesus, acknowledging His work in your life.Respond: Pray, “Lord, thank You for writing my story with Your signature of grace. Help me to live as Your letter, showing Your love and truth to everyone I meet.”Reveal: Share a brief testimony with someone today about how Jesus has changed your life. Let your story be a living letter that points others to Christ.Don’t forget to answer today’s Bible question: Who in the Bible became so depressed by their circumstances that they changed their name to “bitter”? Email your answer to arnie.cole@bttb.org or leave a comment below.Before you go, remember: every spiritual rep matters. Whether you prayed, encouraged a friend, or opened God’s Word, you’re shaping your soul for eternity. Join us tomorrow for another Spiritually Fit Today workout—because what you do today matters, and tomorrow you’ll be glad you did.Keywords: Arnie Cole, Brian Meyer, Spiritually Fit Today, Christian testimony, disability and faith, 2 Corinthians 3:2–3, Ephesians 2:10, spiritual growth, Bible study, Christian encouragement, living letter from Christ, grace, Christian podcast, daily devotional, back to the Bible, faith journey, Christian mentorship, spiritual fitness, Christian living, gratitude, prayer, reveal Christ, share your story, Christian inspiration

Your Faith Story Is Being Written Right Now

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 Brian Meyer for an honest and powerful conversation about how God uses every season of life—even the painful ones—to tell His story through us. Drawing from 2 Corinthians 3:2–3, Arnie and Brian explore what it means to be a “living letter” from Christ, written not with ink but with the Spirit of the living God.Brian shares his remarkable life journey—from growing up in small-town Nebraska and surviving family hardship to living with paralysis after a high school wrestling accident. Through it all, he has discovered that faith isn’t about perfection—it’s about perseverance. Together, Arnie and Brian talk about finding strength in weakness, overcoming anxiety, and recognizing how our ordinary lives can become extraordinary testimonies of God’s grace.Take action with the 4 R’s:Read: Reflect on 2 Corinthians 3:2–3 and Philippians 1:6. Let God remind you that He’s still writing your story for His glory.Reflect: Think about how your life “speaks” to others. What message about Christ do people read when they see your actions and hear your words?Respond: Pray, “Lord, thank You for writing Your message on my heart. Help me deliver it through my life today—one act of kindness at a time.”Reveal: Let someone “read” Jesus in you today. Offer encouragement, share your story, or simply show joy and patience that reflect God’s Spirit at work in you.Quiz: Who was Paul referring to when he wrote, “She has been the benefactor of many people, including me”? Share your answer in the comments or email Arnie at arnie.cole@bttb.orgBefore you go, pause for a moment—you just finished a spiritual rep, and it mattered. Whether you prayed, encouraged a friend, or opened God’s Word, every step strengthens your spiritual fitness. Join us again tomorrow for another Spiritually Fit Today workout—because what you do today matters, and tomorrow you’ll be glad you did.Keywords: Arnie Cole, Brian Meyer, Spiritually Fit Today, 2 Corinthians 3:2–3, Christian testimony, faith through hardship, overcoming anxiety, disability and faith, Philippians 1:6, spiritual growth, Christian encouragement, living letter from Christ, Back to the Bible, daily devotional, Christian podcast, hope, spiritual fitness, gratitude, perseverance, grace, Christian living, faith journey

Stop Sitting Still — Someone Needs What God Gave You

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. In this episode, Arnie shares how real change starts with the people God has already placed around you. Drawing from Ephesians 4:11–12, Arnie discusses the power of mentoring, discipleship, and serving in the body of Christ. Through personal stories and practical insights, you'll discover how investing in others multiplies your impact and strengthens your own faith journey.This episode challenges you to step into your God-given role, just as Arnie’s mentor did for him. Learn why spiritual fitness is about daily choices, humble service, and sharing your story to encourage others. Whether you’re new to faith or a seasoned believer, you’ll find motivation to get in the game, support those around you, and let God work through your everyday actions.Take action with the 4 R’s:Read: Dive into Ephesians 4:11–12 and see how God equips every believer for ministry and building up the body of Christ.Reflect: Think about who first influenced your faith journey. How did their investment shape your spiritual growth? What opportunities do you have to invest in others today?Respond: Pray, “Lord, thank You for those who have poured into my life. Give me courage and willingness to step into my role and invest in others. Show me someone I can encourage and help today.”Reveal: Reach out to a friend or fellow believer. Share the truth of Ephesians 4:11–12 and encourage them in their importance to God’s work. Let your actions and words demonstrate Christ’s love and the value of spiritual community.Share your story in the comments or write to Arnie at arniec@bttb.org. Celebrate your spiritual progress this week, and remember—spiritual fitness is about showing up every day, not being perfect. If this episode encouraged you, share it with someone who needs hope and strength.Join us next week for more encouragement on Spiritually Fit Today, because what you do today truly matters—and tomorrow you’ll be glad you did.Keywords: Arnie Cole, Spiritually Fit Today, Christian podcast, spiritual fitness, discipleship, mentoring, Ephesians 4:11–12, Christian encouragement, faith stories, Bible study, Christian growth, serving others, spiritual growth, daily devotion, Christian motivation, Back to the Bible

Stop Watching, Start Living: How to Activate Your Faith

Subscribe to get each episode delivered to your Inbox daily: https://bttb.org/subscribe2sftJoin Arnie Cole, your spiritual fitness coach, and special guest CJ Cooper, gym owner and coach, as they explore how the gospel spreads more powerfully through everyday conversations at your kitchen table than from the pulpit. In this episode of Spiritually Fit Today, discover how the early church grew through authentic relationships, encouragement, and living out faith in daily life. Drawing parallels between team sports and spiritual growth, Arnie and CJ discuss the importance of team chemistry, humility, and the unique contributions each person brings to the body of Christ. Learn why spiritual fitness is about consistent, daily steps—not perfection—and how everyone, regardless of their role, can make a difference.Memory Verse: Ephesians 4:11–12 – “So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up.”Action Steps – The 4 R’s:Read: Dive into Ephesians 4:11–12 and Acts 8:4. See how God equips every believer for service and how the early church shared the gospel wherever they went.Reflect: Consider how your daily actions—at home, work, or with friends—can build up others and spread the love of Christ. What unique gifts has God given you to serve your community?Respond: Pray, “Lord Jesus, thank You for equipping me to serve and share Your love. Help me to see opportunities to encourage others and to be bold in sharing my faith story today.”Reveal: Share your faith story in a simple, caring way with someone today—a coworker, neighbor, or family member. Listen to their story and encourage them. Let your actions and words reveal Christ’s love beyond the church walls.Don’t forget today’s quiz question: A paralyzed man had four friends. What unusual thing did they do to get him in front of Jesus? Share your answer in the comments or email Arnie at arnie.cole@bttb.org.Before you go, pause and celebrate the spiritual step you took today. Remember, spiritual fitness is about showing up daily and letting God use you right where you are. If this episode encouraged you, share it with a friend and join us tomorrow for another Spiritually Fit Today workout—because what you do today truly matters.Keywords: Arnie Cole, CJ Cooper, Spiritually Fit Today, spiritual fitness, gospel, kitchen table, Ephesians 4:11–12, Acts 8:4, Christian encouragement, faith in action, team chemistry, spiritual growth, daily devotion, share your faith, Christian podcast, back to the Bible, spiritual workout, Christian living, Bible study, practical faith, discipleship, Arnie Cole email, CJ Cooper gym, Lincoln Nebraska, Christian motivation, spiritual discipline, Christian community, faith story, spiritual habits, Christian encouragement, daily Bible, Christian team, spiritual journey, Christian inspiration

The Hidden Strength of a Humble Faith

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In this episode of Spiritually Fit Today, Arnie Cole, spiritual fitness researcher and coach, is joined by CJ Cooper, professional trainer and passionate Christ follower, to explore the vital role of behind-the-scenes people in building up the body of Christ. No band, no podium, no spotlight—no problem! Heaven still sees your work. Drawing from Ephesians 4:11–12, Arnie and CJ discuss how every act of service, no matter how unseen, strengthens the church and impacts lives. CJ shares personal stories about the unsung heroes in his life, including his wife and mentors, and offers practical encouragement for introverts and those who feel unnoticed in their service.
 
Take action with the 4 R’s:
 
Read: Ephesians 4:11–12 – “So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up.”
 
Reflect: Consider the people in your life and church who serve quietly behind the scenes. How does their faithfulness impact you and others? What small acts of service can you do today that might go unnoticed but make a big difference?
 
Respond: Pray, “Lord, thank You for those who serve faithfully without recognition. Strengthen and encourage them today. Help me to notice and appreciate their efforts, and give me the courage to serve in ways that build up Your church.”
 
Reveal: Show gratitude to someone who serves behind the scenes—send a text, make a call, or thank them in person. Let them know their work matters. Share this episode with someone who needs encouragement, and keep building up the body of Christ together.
 
Don’t forget to answer today’s Bible quiz: Where is this encouragement from Paul found? “Acknowledge those who work hard among you, who care for you in the Lord and who admonish you. Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work.” Leave your answer in the comments or email Arnie at arniec@bttb.org.
 
Remember, spiritual fitness isn’t about perfection—it’s about showing up daily. Celebrate your spiritual reps, encourage others, and join us tomorrow for another workout for your soul. What you do today truly matters!
 
Keywords: Arnie Cole, CJ Cooper, Spiritually Fit Today, spiritual fitness, Ephesians 4:11–12, behind the scenes, church service, encouragement, introverts, Christian podcast, Bible study, spiritual growth, Christian encouragement, serving others, body of Christ, daily devotional, Christian motivation, unsung heroes, gratitude, prayer, discipleship, mentoring, faith in action, Christian community, spiritual discipline, Bible memorization, Christian living, Back to the Bible

Equipped to Serve: Why Your Faith Needs Movement

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Join Arnie Cole, your spiritual fitness researcher and coach, and special guest CJ Cooper, sports mentor and Christ follower, on Spiritually Fit Today. In this episode, Arnie and CJ discuss why staying put in the pew isn’t enough—your faith was meant to move! Discover how spiritual growth mirrors athletic training: it’s not just about learning, but about getting in the game and taking action. Learn from CJ’s experience in sports and mentoring, and see how you can move from being a spiritual spectator to an active participant in God’s mission. 
 
Memory Verse: Ephesians 4:11–12 – “So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors, and teachers to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up.” 
 
 4 R’s for Spiritual Growth: 
 
Read: Dive into Ephesians 4:11–12. Consider how God equips every believer—not just pastors or teachers—for works of service. 
Reflect: Ask yourself, “Am I sitting on the sidelines, or am I actively serving and building up the body of Christ?” Think about the mentors who have impacted your life and how you can follow their example. 
Respond: Pray, “Lord, thank You for those who have invested in me. Give me a servant’s heart and the courage to step out in faith. Help me use my gifts to serve others and build up Your church.” 
Reveal: Show your gratitude by thanking someone who has shown you kindness recently. Then, take one intentional step to serve or encourage someone else today—at home, work, or in your community. Let your actions reveal Christ’s love. 
 
Don’t miss the Soul Pump assignment and quiz time! Take a moment to celebrate your progress and remember: spiritual fitness is about showing up daily, not perfection. If this episode encouraged you, share it with a friend and help build a spiritual fitness community. For questions or to connect, email Arnie at arniec@bttb.org. 
 
 Keywords: Arnie Cole, CJ Cooper, Spiritually Fit Today, spiritual fitness, Christian podcast, mentoring, Ephesians 4:11–12, faith in action, Christian growth, discipleship, serving others, Christian encouragement, Bible study, spiritual workout, Christian community, Back to the Bible