Spiritually Fit Today

If Your Peace Depends on Circumstances, It’s Not Peace

Subscribe to get each episode delivered to your Inbox daily at: https://bttb.org/subscribe2sftWelcome to Spiritually Fit Today with Arnie Cole and guest Dr. Rob Rhodes. In this episode they explore “the peace that passes all understanding” (Philippians 4:6–7), how faith and science intersect, and a moving real-life story of a nine‑year‑old who faced liver failure, received a transplant, and experienced supernatural peace through the crisis. Dr. Rhodes — physician, entrepreneur, author — reflects on trusting God, growing compassion, and practicing peace amid uncertainty.4 R Action Steps- Read: Philippians 4:6–7. Slow‑read the verse and let each phrase settle in.- Reflect: Ask, What worry can I honestly hand to God today? Visualize peace as a warm presence that calms your heart and mind.- Respond (short prayer): Lord, we long for that peace that passes all understanding. Calm our hearts in the storms we face. Help us run to You when we are afraid and let Your peace anchor our souls. In Jesus’ name, Amen.- Reveal: Share this passage and the story of God’s peace with someone facing fear or illness. Offer a listening ear, a brief prayer, or a practical act of compassion to demonstrate God’s care.Contact: arnie.cole@bttb.orgIf this message encouraged you, like, comment, and share so others can find peace too.Keywords: peace that passes all understanding, Philippians 4:6-7, Christian podcast, spiritual growth, prayer, faith and science, trust in God, Dr. Rob Rhodes, Arnie Cole, compassion, testimony, transplant story, hope, Christian encouragement

Your Brain Can Rewire—Here’s How to Train It

Subscribe to get each episode delivered to your Inbox daily at: https://bttb.org/subscribe2sftWelcome to Spiritually Fit Today with Arnie Cole and guest Dr. Rob Rhodes. In this episode we explore how gratitude can "crowd out" worry — not by white-knuckling it, but by rewiring an anxious brain through prayer, thankfulness, and practiced perspective. Dr. Rhodes combines clinical insight about neuroplasticity with practical faith steps for reducing anxiety and restoring focus on Christ.Make it practical — the 4 R action plan:- Read: Read Philippians 4:6–7 slowly. Let the promise of presenting requests with thanksgiving sink in.- Reflect: When worry arises, pause and ask: What am I trying to control? How would presenting this to God with thanks change my perspective?- Respond: Prayer (example): Lord, thank you for your presence and provision. Help me release my anxieties to you, cultivate a grateful heart, and receive your peace. Amen.- Reveal: Share your gratitude list with someone, offer to pray for a friend, or demonstrate care by doing one small, thankful action for another person.Today’s simple practice: set aside five minutes to write five things you’re grateful for. When worry flares, immediately counterpunch it with those five items and notice the shift.Contact: Arnie Cole — arnie.cole@bttb.orgKeywords: gratitude, thankfulness, anxiety, worry, Philippians 4:6-7, prayer, neuroplasticity, spiritual growth, Christian podcast, mental health, faith and science, coping with worry

The Question That Feeds Anxiety—or Faith

Subscribe to get each episode delivered to your Inbox daily at: https://bttb.org/subscribe2sftWelcome to Spiritually Fit Today with Arnie Cole and Dr. Rob Rhodes. In this episode we explore how to turn worry into prayer — hijacking anxiety’s favorite question, “What if?” — by choosing faith, trusting God, and using prayer as a practical habit for peace. Dr. Rhodes brings a clinical perspective and a real patient story about perseverance and prayer in the face of a serious diagnosis.4 R Action StepsRead — Philippians 4:6-7: “Do not be anxious about anything. . . . present your request to God, and the peace of God which transcends all understanding will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”Reflect — When “what if?” arises, pause, breathe, name the fear, and remind yourself of God’s promise of peace. Ask: What is within my control? Where can I trust God right now?Respond — One-sentence prayer: Lord, thank you that we can bring everything to you in prayer; remind me in anxious moments to turn to you and fill my heart with your peace. Amen.Reveal — Share your one-sentence prayer or this episode’s insight with someone who’s worried, invite them to pray with you, or tell a trusted friend how prayer has helped you persevere.For prayer requests or feedback: arnie.cole@bttb.orgKeywords: worry, anxiety, prayer, faith, Philippians 4:6-7, Christian podcast, spiritual fitness, coping with anxiety, prayer practice, Dr. Rob Rhodes, Arnie Cole, turning worry into prayer, hijack anxiety, faith over fear, Christian mental health, spiritual encouragement

Why Fighting Worry Actually Makes It Worse (And What Works Instead)

Subscribe to get each episode delivered to your Inbox daily at: https://bttb.org/subscribe2sftSpiritually Fit Today with Arnie Cole featuring Dr. Rob Rhodes — a timely, practical episode about worry and anxiety. Dr. Rhodes (physician, author, entrepreneur) joins Arnie Cole (spiritual fitness coach & researcher) to unpack why fighting worry often makes it worse, how anxiety shows up physically and emotionally, and realistic steps you can take to experience God’s peace. We explore Philippians 4:6–7 as our memory verse and practical anchor: Do not be anxious about anything; in every situation, by prayer and petition with thanksgiving, present your requests to God, and the peace of God will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.Short summary: This episode explains the biopsychosocial effects of worry (insomnia, hormone changes, altered pain perception), when medication may help, and why a holistic approach — prayer, counseling, healthy habits, community — often leads to lasting change. Includes the Soul Pump assignment: write down three things that worry you and beside each write a short prayer giving the worry to the Lord.Take action with the 4 R’s:Read — Read Philippians 4:6–7 and meditate on it for 5–10 minutes today. Reflect — Ask: What am I actually afraid will happen? What can I control? Where can I surrender this to God? Respond — Short prayer: “Father, I confess I carry worry instead of bringing it to You. Forgive me. Help me trust You and give me Your peace. In Jesus’ name, Amen.” Reveal — Share your one worry-and-prayer with a trusted friend, pastor, or accountability partner; pray together and show someone how this promise changes your choices.Contact: Arnie Cole — arnie.cole@bttb.orgIf this helped you, like, comment your takeaway, and share with someone who needs peace today.Keywords: worry, anxiety, Philippians 4:6-7, spiritual fitness, Christian meditation, prayer for anxiety, Dr. Rob Rhodes, Arnie Cole, faith and mental health, peace of God, soul pump, spiritual coaching, holistic mental health, Christian counseling, overcoming worry, Bible study, daily devotional, faith-based mental wellness
 
 

Stop Stressing About Saving’ People: Do THIS Instead

Subscribe to get each episode delivered to your Inbox daily: https://bttb.org/subscribe2sftWelcome to Spiritually Fit Today. Join host Arnie Cole and guest Pastor Alex Leyva as they explore the vital role of prayer in evangelism. Using the simple illustration of a child reaching for a cookie jar, we’re reminded that just as we need help to reach what’s out of our grasp, we also need God’s help to reach people’s hearts. Pastor Alex shares practical insights on developing a prayer rhythm, praying for specific people, and being intentional about sharing the gospel in everyday life.This episode’s memory verse is 1 Peter 3:15: "But in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect." Discover how prayer not only prepares your heart but also opens doors for meaningful conversations about faith.Take action with the 4 R’s:Read: Meditate on 1 Peter 3:15 and Luke 10:2. Let these verses remind you of your calling and the power of prayer in sharing your faith.Reflect: Think about the people in your life who need Jesus. How can you be more intentional in praying for them and seeking opportunities to share the gospel?Respond: Pray, "Father God, thank you that you are the one who changes hearts. Help me rely on you through prayer as I share the gospel. Please soften the hearts of those I’m praying for and give me opportunities to show your love and truth. In Jesus’ name, Amen."Reveal: Identify four people in your life who need Jesus. Assign each person a day of the week to pray for them. Set a reminder, reach out with encouragement, and look for ways to demonstrate Christ’s love in your interactions.Don’t forget to celebrate your spiritual progress this week! Share this episode with a friend, and join us again on Monday for another Spiritually Fit Today workout. For questions or to connect, email Arnie at arnie.cole@bttb.org.Keywords: prayer in evangelism, how to pray for others, sharing the gospel, spiritual fitness, Pastor Alex Leyva, Arnie Cole, 1 Peter 3:15, Luke 10:2, Christian podcast, daily devotional, spiritual growth, prayer rhythm, Back to the Bible, spiritually fit today, evangelism tips, Christian encouragement, faith in action, how to share Jesus, practical evangelism, prayer assignment, Christian living, Bible study, spiritual habits, gospel conversations

What to Say When Someone Asks Why You’re ‘Different’

Subscribe to get each episode delivered to your Inbox daily: https://bttb.org/subscribe2sftToday on Spiritually Fit Today, Arnie Cole and guest Alex Leyva dive into the art of sharing your faith with a lightning-fast, 15-second testimony. Have you ever been asked, "Why are you so different?" This episode equips you to answer confidently and concisely, drawing from 1 Peter 3:15: "Always be prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you." Alex Leyva shares practical steps to craft your story—what your life was like before Christ, how Jesus changed you, and what your life is like now. Learn how to identify two key words that define your journey and connect them in a way that resonates with others, even in brief encounters.Take action with the 4 R's:Read: Reflect on 1 Peter 3:15 and consider how it applies to your life.Reflect: Think about two words or phrases that describe your life before and after meeting Jesus. How has the gospel been good news to you?Respond: Pray, "Heavenly Father, thank you for the story of how you saved us. Give us the words, confidence, and opportunities to share our testimony, even if it's just for a few seconds. Help us listen to others and gently point them to you. In Jesus' name, Amen."Reveal: Practice sharing your 15-second testimony with a friend or family member. If you need accountability, email your testimony to Arnie at arnie.cole@bttb.org.Don't miss this practical episode designed to help you turn intention into action and be ready to share the hope within you at any moment.Keywords: 15-second testimony, Christian testimony, Arnie Cole, Alex Leyva, evangelism, sharing faith, 1 Peter 3:15, gospel story, Christian encouragement, Bible study, Back to the Bible, short testimony, how to share your faith, Christian podcast, faith in action, practical evangelism, spiritual growth, Christian life, hope in Jesus, discipleship, testimony tips

Foolproof Tools to Share the Gospel (Even if You’re Nervous)

Subscribe to get each episode delivered to your Inbox daily: https://bttb.org/subscribe2sftIn this episode of Spiritually Fit Today, join Arnie Cole and special guest Alex Leyva as they break down three simple, practical tools to help you confidently share your faith. If you’ve ever prayed for opportunities to talk about Jesus but found yourself freezing in the moment, you’re not alone. Arnie and Alex discuss why this happens and how you can overcome it with easy-to-remember methods like the “recipe” approach, the Romans Road, and the Gospel Plan with five memorable phrases. Learn how to make sharing your faith a natural part of your life, engage in meaningful conversations, and help others come to know Jesus Christ.Read: Today’s key verse is 1 Peter 3:15 – “But in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect.” Take a moment to read and meditate on this passage.Reflect: Think about times when you’ve had the chance to share your faith. What held you back? How can practicing these tools help you be more prepared and confident next time?Respond: Pray with us – Heavenly Father, thank you for giving us practical ways to share your good news. Help us remember these tools and use them with love and confidence. Provide opportunities for us to speak about Jesus each and every day and let your Holy Spirit work through us. In Jesus’ name, amen.Reveal: Choose one of the gospel sharing tools discussed today. Write it down, get familiar with it, and practice explaining it in your own words. Try role-playing with a friend or family member so you’re ready when the next opportunity comes.For questions or to connect, email Arnie Cole at arnie.cole@bttb.org.Keywords: sharing your faith, evangelism tools, Romans Road, Gospel Plan, Christian testimony, Arnie Cole, Alex Leyva, Fiercely Fit Today, practical evangelism, how to share the gospel, 1 Peter 3:15, Christian encouragement, Bible study, faith in action, back to the Bible, spiritual growth, daily devotionals, Christian podcast, gospel conversation, kids ministry, personal testimony, Christian living, discipleship, outreach, Christian resources

You’re Not Just Saved—You’re Sent (1 Peter 3:15 Explained)

Subscribe to get each episode delivered to your Inbox daily: https://bttb.org/subscribe2sftWelcome to Spiritually Fit Today! Join hosts Arnie Cole and guest Pastor Alex Leyva as they dive into the importance of evangelism in a high-stakes world. Are you feeling stalled in your faith? It’s time to hit the gas and rediscover the joy and privilege of sharing the hope you have in Christ.In this episode, Arnie and Alex discuss why we sometimes lose motivation to share our faith, the spiritual battles that can hold us back, and how to reignite our passion for the gospel. They explore three biblical reasons for evangelism:1. Jesus Commands Us – The Great Commission (Matthew 28:18-20) calls every believer to make disciples as a way of life.2. Our New Identity – As described in 1 Peter 2:9, we are a royal priesthood, transformed and called to share what we love most.3. Defenders of Hope – 1 Peter 3:15 reminds us to always be ready to give a reason for the hope within us, doing so with gentleness and respect.Action Steps – The 4 R’s:Read: Dive into Matthew 28:18-20, 1 Peter 2:9, and 1 Peter 3:15. Let these passages remind you of your mission and identity in Christ.Reflect: Consider what holds you back from sharing your faith. How can remembering your own story and the hope you have in Jesus motivate you today?Respond: Pray – “Lord, show us your commanding truth, transformative power, and unshakable hope. When doubt creeps in, remind us that you are greater than any doubts. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”Reveal: Write down the three reasons for sharing your faith and their key verses. Post this list somewhere visible—on your mirror, fridge, or workspace—as a daily reminder. Look for an opportunity today to share your hope with someone, whether in a brief conversation or through ongoing relationship.For questions or to connect, email Arnie Cole at arnie.cole@bttb.org.Don’t miss out—subscribe for more episodes that help you get spiritually fit and live out your faith with confidence!Keywords: sharing the gospel, evangelism, spiritual growth, Christian motivation, Great Commission, 1 Peter 3:15, 1 Peter 2:9, discipleship, hope in Christ, Arnie Cole, Alex Leyva, Bible study, Christian podcast, Back to the Bible, spiritual fitness, faith in action, daily devotionals, Christian encouragement

From Scared to Bold: How to Talk About Jesus in Real Life

Subscribe to get each episode delivered to your Inbox daily: https://bttb.org/subscribe2sftWelcome to Spiritually Fit Today. Join host Arnie Cole and special guest Pastor Alex Leyva, co-lead pastor at City Light South Lincoln Church, as they dive deep into the heart of evangelism. Discover how sharing your faith can be as thrilling as a champion athlete sharing their victory, and why personal stories of transformation are the most powerful way to communicate the gospel.In this episode, Arnie and Alex discuss the barriers many face when it comes to sharing their faith, especially for those who feel evangelism is only for the "professionals." Alex shares his own journey, the importance of love as the motivation for evangelism, and how every believer is called to make sharing the gospel a lifestyle, not just a duty. They explore why living a good life isn't enough—real evangelism requires conversation and invitation.Memory Verse: 1 Peter 3:15 - "But in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect."Take Action with the 4 R’s:Read: Open your Bible to 1 Peter 3:15 and read the verse slowly. Let the words sink in and consider what it means to honor Christ and be ready to share your hope.Reflect: Think about your own story. What has God done in your life? What holds you back from sharing your faith? How can love for others motivate you to step out and share the good news?Respond: Pray this simple prayer: "Heavenly God, ignite my heart with the explosive good news of Jesus Christ, the ultimate comeback story. Fill me with wisdom to treasure your grace and give me gentle power and respectful fire to share your truth. In Jesus’ name, Amen."Reveal: Grab a journal and write your three-point gospel summary: God’s love, your mess, and Jesus’ win. Practice telling your story, and look for an opportunity this week to share it with someone. If you’d like, email your story to Arnie at arnie.cole@bttb.org.Don’t miss the rest of this week’s episodes as Alex Leyva joins us to go even deeper into the subject of evangelism and living out your faith every day.Keywords: evangelism, sharing faith, gospel, Arnie Cole, Alex Leyva, City Light South Lincoln, personal testimony, Christian motivation, 1 Peter 3:15, spiritual growth, Christian podcast, Bible study, discipleship, Christian living, how to share the gospel, faith stories, spiritual fitness, Back to the Bible, Jesus, Christian encouragement, prayer, Christian action, lifestyle evangelism, Nebraska church, Christian family, soul pump assignment, Christian journaling, hope in Christ, Christian witness, spiritual transformation, Christian identity, living for Jesus, Christian community, faith in action, Christian obedience, Christian love, Christian outreach, Christian mission, Christian inspiration, Christian teaching, Christian leadership, Christian podcast 2025.
 

Pray With Power: The Shift That Changes Everything

Subscribe to get each episode delivered to your Inbox daily: https://bttb.org/subscribe2sftWelcome to Spiritually Fit Today with Arnie Cole and guest Dr. Chuck Lawless. In this powerful conclusion to our week on prayer, we explore the true potential and pitfalls of prayer in the Christian life. Prayer is incredibly powerful, but it can be undermined by common mistakes—even among devoted Christ followers. Today, Arnie and Dr. Lawless discuss the biblical command to "pray without ceasing" (1 Thessalonians 5:17), the balance between prayer and action, and the warning signs that can lead to spiritual backsliding. Discover why a vibrant prayer life is essential for spiritual growth, how to avoid becoming "so heavenly-minded you're no earthly good," and what to do when prayer feels like talking to yourself. Dr. Lawless shares his key takeaway for anyone seeking a deeper connection with God and practical steps to make prayer a daily reality.Take action with the 4 R’s:Read: Dive into 1 Thessalonians 5:17 and reflect on what it means to "pray without ceasing."Reflect: Consider how your prayer life impacts your daily actions and spiritual growth. Are there areas where you need more balance?Respond: Pray, "Lord, help me to seek You continually and to let my prayers shape my actions. Keep me close to You and strengthen my faith."Reveal: Share with someone how consistent prayer has changed your life, and encourage them to experience the power of prayer for themselves.Don’t miss Dr. Chuck Lawless’s book, "The Potential and Power of Prayer," available on Amazon—a great resource to help you stay strong in your faith journey.For questions or to connect, email Arnie Cole at arnie.cole@bttb.org.Keywords: prayer, Christian living, Arnie Cole, Chuck Lawless, spiritual growth, pray without ceasing, 1 Thessalonians 5:17, power of prayer, back to the Bible, daily devotion, faith, Bible study, Christian challenge, prayer life, spiritual discipline, Christian encouragement, prayer pitfalls, balance faith and action, Christian podcast, Bible teaching