Spiritually Fit Today

Reno Collier’s Path to Surrender and Real Change

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

Why Mentoring Someone Might Change Your Life Too

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

The Lie That Keeps You from Making a Difference

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

How to Fight Loneliness in the Digital Age

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

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

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

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