Spiritually Fit Today

From the Bleachers to the Battlefield: Living 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 lifelong athlete, on Spiritually Fit Today as they explore how to get on God’s starting lineup and get into the game of faith. Discover how ordinary believers can make an extraordinary impact by using their God-given gifts, and why spiritual fitness is about daily choices, not perfection. This episode dives into Ephesians 4:11-12, highlighting the importance of being equipped for service and the vital role of mentors and coaches in both sports and spiritual life. Hear CJ’s story of transformation through the investment of others, and learn how you can step up, encourage someone, and become a mentor yourself.Take action with the 4 R’s:Read: Dive into Ephesians 4:11-12 and see how Christ equips every believer for works of service.Reflect: Consider who has mentored you and how their investment shaped your journey. What gifts has God given you to share?Respond: Pray, “Lord, thank You for the mentors and leaders You’ve placed in my life. Help me recognize my gifts and use them to serve others. Motivate me to encourage and guide someone today.”Reveal: Reach out to a mentor and thank them for their influence. Then, encourage someone in your circle to stay focused on Jesus, demonstrating the truth of God’s Word in action.Quiz Question: What was the name of the ordinary believer God used to set the Apostle Paul on his path to becoming a missionary? (Hint: He lived in Damascus.) Share your answer in the comments or email arniec@bttb.org.Before you go, remember: every spiritual rep matters. Whether you prayed, encouraged a friend, or opened God’s Word, you’re building spiritual strength for eternity. Share this episode, subscribe for daily encouragement, 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, Christian podcast, Ephesians 4:11-12, discipleship, mentoring, Christian encouragement, faith in action, Bible study, spiritual growth, Christian motivation, daily devotional, Back to the Bible

What You Do Today Matters — Here’s Proof.

Subscribe to get each episode delivered to your Inbox daily: https://bttb.org/subscribe2sft Join Arnie Cole, your spiritual fitness researcher and coach, on Spiritually Fit Today as we explore why what you do today truly matters in your walk with Christ. In this episode, Arnie unpacks 1 Corinthians 15:58 and shares how every act of faith, no matter how small or unseen, is celebrated by God and never wasted. Discover how to rise above digital distractions, build spiritual strength, and anchor your faith in a world full of noise. Take action with the 4 R’s: Read: Open your Bible and read 1 Corinthians 15:58: “Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain.” Reflect: Think about where God has met you in the middle of life’s noise. How has He given you strength to pull away from distractions and focus on what matters most? Respond: Pray this simple prayer—“Lord, help me be steadfast. Keep me immovable in my faith. Let me abound in Your work. Remind me that nothing I do for You is ever wasted, even if I never see the results.” Reveal: Share 1 Corinthians 15:58 with someone who needs encouragement. Invite them to start their own spiritual fitness journey with you, and tell your story of how God has worked in your life this week. Remember, spiritual fitness isn’t about perfection—it’s about showing up daily and taking one step at a time. Celebrate the progress you’ve made, and know that every spiritual rep counts for eternity. For questions or to share your story, contact Arnie Cole at arniec@bttb.org. Keywords: Arnie Cole, Spiritually Fit Today, spiritual fitness, 1 Corinthians 15:58, Christian encouragement, daily devotion, Bible study, faith, digital distractions, spiritual growth, Back to the Bible, Christian motivation, Christian podcast, spiritual strength, Christian living, daily Bible verse, Christian inspiration, faith journey, Christian coaching, spiritual discipline, Christian habits

He Took a Risk Most Christians Won’t—And It Worked

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 digital architect Justin Manes to tackle the challenge of overcoming digital distractions and staying spiritually fit in a world of constant online bombardment. Arnie and Justin discuss creative ways to deepen your spiritual life and disciple others, even in a digital age. Justin shares a powerful story about an unexpected spiritual connection through a simple act—a small booklet with Bible verses included in a package—which sparked a meaningful conversation and inspired him to do the same for others.Key Takeaways:- Learn how small, intentional acts can make a big spiritual impact.- Discover practical steps to become steadfast and immovable in your faith, based on 1 Corinthians 15:58.- Find encouragement to reach out and disciple others, even when it feels risky.Take Action with the 4 R’s:Read: Today’s memory verse is 1 Corinthians 15:58—“Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain.” Read this verse and let it sink in.Reflect: Consider how digital distractions affect your spiritual life. What creative ways can you use to connect with God and others, just like Justin and Jake did?Respond: Pray—“Lord, help me to be steadfast and creative in sharing Your love. Show me small ways I can encourage others and point them to You, even in a digital world.”Reveal: Take a step today—send a note, a verse, or a small gift to someone. Share the joy of Jesus and see how God uses your action to impact another life.If this episode encouraged you, share it with a friend and start a conversation about spiritual fitness. For questions or to connect, email Arnie Cole at arniec@bttb.org.Keywords: Arnie Cole, Justin Manes, Spiritually Fit Today, digital distractions, spiritual fitness, discipleship, 1 Corinthians 15:58, Christian encouragement, Bible study, spiritual growth, overcoming digital overload, relational discipleship, Christian podcast, daily devotion, faith in action, Back to the Bible

They Built It to Keep You Addicted (and It’s Working)

Subscribe to get each episode delivered to your Inbox daily: https://bttb.org/subscribe2sft Join Arnie Cole and digital architect Justin Manes as they dive into the challenges of digital distraction and how to reclaim your day with purpose and spiritual focus. In this episode, Arnie and Justin discuss the impact of constant phone use, the addictive nature of social media algorithms, and practical strategies to break free from the cycle of digital fatigue. Discover how turning off your device, prioritizing real relationships, and starting your day with God can help you thrive instead of just survive. Take action with the 4 R’s: Read: Start your day by reading the Bible and spending time in God’s presence, away from digital distractions. Reflect: Consider how technology shapes your focus. Ask yourself, “Who can I serve today?” and think about ways to shift your attention from yourself to others. Respond: Pray for God’s guidance to help you use your talents and resources to bless someone else. Ask for strength to resist digital distractions and to be present in your relationships. Reveal: Show God’s love through a simple act of kindness—write a note, reach out to someone, or serve in a tangible way. Let your actions demonstrate the truth of God’s Word to those around you. If this episode encouraged you, share it with a friend and help others break free from digital overload. For questions or feedback, contact Arnie Cole at arniec@bttb.org. Keywords: digital distraction, spiritual fitness, Arnie Cole, Justin Manes, Bible reading, prayer, Christian podcast, overcoming phone addiction, serving others, faith in action, back to the Bible, soul care, Christian encouragement, daily devotion, spiritual growth, technology and faith, Christian living, digital wellness, Christian relationships, practical faith, unplugging, Christian habits, soul pump

You’re Being Spiritually Hacked Every Day (Here’s How to Stop It)

Subscribe to get each episode delivered to your Inbox daily: https://bttb.org/subscribe2sft Join Arnie Cole and digital architect Justin Manes as they dive into the challenges of digital distraction and how to reclaim your day with purpose and spiritual focus. In this episode, Arnie and Justin discuss the impact of constant phone use, the addictive nature of personalized digital feeds, and practical strategies to break free from the cycle of digital fatigue. Justin shares his personal routine of turning off his phone at night, prioritizing time for prayer, reading, and reflection, and the importance of intentional social connection. Together, they explore how serving others and focusing beyond ourselves can counteract loneliness and help us thrive spiritually. Take action with the 4 R’s: Read: Start your day by reading the Bible and filling your mind with God’s Word. Reflect: Consider how digital habits affect your spiritual and emotional well-being. What steps can you take to be more present with God and others? Respond: Pray, asking God to help you disconnect from distractions and focus on serving others with the gifts He’s given you. Reveal: Demonstrate today’s truth by reaching out to someone—write a letter, offer a small act of kindness, or simply spend time with someone who needs encouragement. Soul Pump Assignment: Think of a talent, resource, or opportunity God has given you and use it to help someone else. Start small—maybe write a letter or offer a word of encouragement. Thank God for your gifts, and pray for the person you helped. Watch how gratitude and service energize your soul. For questions or feedback, contact Arnie Cole at arniec@bttb.org. Keywords: digital distraction, spiritual fitness, Arnie Cole, Justin Manes, Bible reading, prayer, social connection, serving others, Christian podcast, overcoming phone addiction, faith habits, gratitude, soul care, Back to the Bible, spiritual growth, daily devotionals, Christian encouragement, digital wellness, Christian living, unplugging, personal growth, faith in action

What Algorithms Know About You That You Don’t

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In today’s episode of Spiritually Fit Today, host Arnie Cole welcomes special guest Justin Manes, a digital architect with over 20 years of experience designing the very apps and platforms that compete for your attention every day.
Together, they dive deep into the three daily silent killers of your spiritual life—distractions, digital noise, and the constant barrage of notifications that erode your faith and focus.
Discover how these hidden influences are shaping your habits, your mind, and your spiritual health, often without you even realizing it. Justin shares insider insights on how social media algorithms are engineered to keep you hooked, why anger and comparison are so effective at grabbing your attention, and how even your daily routines are being shaped by technology.
Arnie and Justin discuss practical strategies for breaking free from these digital traps and building a steadfast spiritual foundation, rooted in 1 Corinthians 15:58: “Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain.”
Take action with the 4 R’s: Read: Start your day by reading 1 Corinthians 15:58. Let God’s Word be the first thing you see, not your notifications. Reflect: Ask yourself—where is your spiritual life feeling shaky because of digital distractions? How can you be more steadfast in your faith today? Respond: Pray, “Lord, help me to be steadfast and immovable in You. Give me strength to resist the pull of distractions and to focus on what truly matters.” Reveal: Share your struggle with someone you trust. Make them your accountability partner and encourage them to join you in building spiritual fitness. Let your actions demonstrate the truth of God’s Word to those around you. Don’t let the noise of the world drown out your spiritual growth. Take a moment to pause, reflect, and do your daily “spiritual rep.” Remember, spiritual fitness isn’t about perfection—it’s about showing up every day.
If this episode encouraged you, share it with a friend who needs hope, strength, and focus in this noisy world. For questions or to connect, email Arnie at arniec@bttb.org.
Keywords: spiritual fitness, Arnie Cole, Justin Manes, digital distractions, faith, steadfast, 1 Corinthians 15:58, social media, spiritual growth, Christian podcast, Bible study, prayer, accountability, overcoming distractions, Christian encouragement, spiritual discipline, technology and faith, spiritual habits, daily devotional, Christian living, back to the Bible

You Don’t Need an Exciting Life to Live with Purpose

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Stop waiting for a better tomorrow—God’s call and gift are for you today! Join Arnie Cole, spiritual fitness researcher and coach, and Braden Pedersen on Spiritually Fit Today as they tackle the challenge of finding joy in the midst of boredom and the ordinary. In this episode, Arnie and Braden discuss how God transforms the mundane into the extraordinary, using real-life stories and biblical examples like David and Jesus to show that every day is a mission field. Discover why what you do today matters, how to avoid tying your identity to temporary things, and how to cultivate deep, lasting joy as a Christ follower.
 
This week’s focus is Psalm 118:24: “This is the day the Lord has made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.” Learn practical ways to rejoice in the everyday, overcome grumpiness, and share joy with others—no matter your circumstances. Hear inspiring stories of people who chose joy despite hardship, and get equipped with actionable steps to grow spiritually, even when life feels routine.
 
Take action with the 4 R’s:
 
Read: Dive into Psalm 118:24. Read it aloud and let its truth sink in—today is a gift from God.
 
Reflect: Ask yourself, “How can I find joy in today’s ordinary moments? Am I waiting for a ‘better’ time to serve God, or am I embracing His call right now?”
 
Respond: Pray, “Lord, thank You for this day and for every opportunity to serve You. Help me to rejoice in the ordinary and to see Your purpose in every moment. Show me how to encourage others and share Your joy.”
 
Reveal: Share Psalm 118:24 with someone today. Tell them how it’s impacted your outlook, or ask for help if you’re struggling to find joy. Look for ways to spread joy—whether through a kind word, a prayer, or simply being present for someone else.
 
Don’t forget your Soul Pump Assignment: Thank God for one ordinary task you get to do today, and look for a chance to spread joy while doing it. Share what you’ve learned about joy in the comments or email Arnie at arniec@bttb.org with your thoughts and ideas for staying joyful every day.
 
Remember, spiritual fitness isn’t about perfection—it’s about showing up and taking small steps each day. Join us next week for more encouragement and practical spiritual workouts!
 
Keywords: spiritual fitness, Arnie Cole, Braden Pedersen, Spiritually Fit Today, joy in boredom, Psalm 118:24, Christian encouragement, overcoming grumpiness, finding purpose, daily devotion, Bible study, spiritual growth, Christian podcast, Back to the Bible, faith in action, gratitude, Christian living, prayer, sharing joy, ordinary to extraordinary, spiritual discipline, Christian motivation

What To Do When Life Hurts Too Much To Handle

Welcome to Spiritually Fit Today with Arnie Cole, spiritual fitness researcher and coach. In this episode, Arnie shares a deeply personal journey through pain, suffering, and faith, focusing on the powerful message of Psalm 118:24: "This is the day the Lord has made; we will rejoice and be glad in it." Whether you’re facing physical pain, emotional struggles, or simply feeling anxious, Arnie offers encouragement and practical steps to help you find hope and joy in the midst of hardship. Arnie recounts his own battles with cancer and how clinging to this verse transformed his outlook, even in the darkest moments. He invites you to discover how choosing to rejoice—no matter your circumstances—can change your day and your life. NOTE: In yesterday's episode, Arnie asked about 1 Samuel 23 and the situation David was in that prompted Jonathan's encouragement. David was, at that time hated by King Saul, and David feared for his life. Thanks to everyone who answered. Take action with the 4 R’s: Read: Open your Bible and read Psalm 118:24. Let the words sink in and remind you that each day is a gift from God. Reflect: Think about a time when God met you in your pain or struggle. How did that experience shape your faith? What does it mean to rejoice in the day God has made, even when it’s hard? Respond: Pray this simple prayer: "Lord, thank You for this day, even in my pain. Help me to rejoice and be glad in it, trusting that You are with me no matter what I face." Reveal: Reach out to someone who is hurting. Share Psalm 118:24 with them and offer a small act of kindness. Let them know they are not alone and that today is a day the Lord has made for them, too. If you need prayer or want to share your story, email Arnie at arniec@bttb.org or leave a comment below. Your journey matters, and every spiritual rep counts. 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 join us tomorrow for another Spiritually Fit Today workout. What you do today matters! Keywords: Arnie Cole, Spiritually Fit Today, Psalm 118:24, Christian encouragement, overcoming pain, faith in suffering, daily devotion, spiritual fitness, Bible study, hope, prayer, Christian podcast, Back to the Bible, rejoice, Christian motivation, spiritual growth, daily inspiration, Christian living, Arnie Cole email, how to rejoice in pain, finding joy in suffering, Christian support, Bible encouragement

How One Man’s Faith Turned Pain Into Joy

Join Arnie Cole and special guest Jack Burke, Senior Vice President of Ministry Advancement at Back to the Bible, for an inspiring episode of Spiritually Fit Today. In this conversation, Arnie and Jack explore the power of sharing joy as Christ followers and how genuine joy can impact those around us. Discover how the joy of the Lord is not just for ourselves, but a spark that others may desperately need. Jack shares personal stories of living out contagious joy, even through life’s challenges, and offers practical advice for making your faith visible in everyday encounters. This episode centers on Psalm 118:24: “This is the day the Lord has made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.” Learn how to see your joy as a gift to be shared, and how focusing on others can transform your own spiritual fitness. Take action with the 4 R’s: Read: Dive into Psalm 118:24 and Nehemiah 8:10. Let God’s Word remind you of the source of true joy. Reflect: Think about someone whose joy has lifted your spirit. How can you see others through Jesus’ eyes today? Respond: Pray aloud, “Lord, thank You for this day. Help me to rejoice and be glad in it. Make my joy contagious to those around me.” Reveal: Encourage someone today with a sincere word of praise or gratitude. Share how their joy has impacted your life, and look for ways to lift others up. Question of the Day: In 1 Samuel 23, Jonathan encouraged David. What situation was David facing that prompted Jonathan’s encouragement? Share your answer in the comments or email Arnie at arniec@bttb.org. Remember, spiritual fitness is about showing up daily and letting God use you to bless others. If this episode encouraged you, share it with a friend and help spread the joy! Keywords: Arnie Cole, Jack Burke, Spiritually Fit Today, Back to the Bible, Christian joy, sharing faith, Psalm 118:24, Nehemiah 8:10, spiritual fitness, encouragement, Bible study, Christian podcast, daily devotion, contagious joy, Christian living, faith in action, Arnie Cole email, Back to the Bible podcast

When Busyness Steals Your Joy

Welcome to Spiritually Fit Today with Arnie Cole and special guest Braden Pedersen! In this episode, we dive into finding joy in the midst of chaos. Drawing inspiration from the classic Anacin ad, Arnie and Braden discuss how even when life feels overwhelming—whether it’s family stress, work pressure, or unexpected challenges—we can choose to rejoice and be glad each day, just as Psalm 118:24 encourages. Braden shares personal stories of chaotic weeks and practical ways to anchor your day in God’s presence, reminding us that while we can’t always control our circumstances, we can control our response. Discover how intentional moments with God, practicing gratitude, and expressing joy can transform not only your outlook but also impact those around you. Action Steps – The 4 R’s: Read: Open your Bible and read Psalm 118:24: “This is the day the Lord has made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.” Reflect: Take a moment to think about how you can find joy in your current chaos. Write down three ways you saw God’s hand in your life today that brought you joy. Respond: Pray, “God, replace my grumpiness and anxiety with trust in Your sovereignty. Help me rejoice and be glad in the day You have given me.” Reveal: Share one of your blessings with someone today and let them know what a blessing they are to you. We’d love to hear from you! What blessings in your life can you focus on today? Share in the comments or email Arnie at arniec@bttb.org. Remember, spiritual fitness is about showing up daily—one step, one choice, one spiritual rep at a time. If this episode encouraged you, share it with someone who needs hope and joy. Join us tomorrow for another Spiritually Fit Today workout! Keywords: spiritual fitness, Arnie Cole, Braden Pedersen, joy in chaos, Psalm 118:24, Christian encouragement, daily devotion, finding joy, overcoming stress, gratitude, spiritual growth, Bible reflection, Christian podcast, faith in hard times, practical faith, spiritual habits, backtothebible