Spiritually Fit Today

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

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