Spiritually Fit Today

Your Faith Story Is Being Written Right Now

Subscribe to get each episode delivered to your Inbox daily: https://bttb.org/subscribe2sftIn this episode of Spiritually Fit Today, Arnie Cole is joined by Brian Meyer for an honest and powerful conversation about how God uses every season of life—even the painful ones—to tell His story through us. Drawing from 2 Corinthians 3:2–3, Arnie and Brian explore what it means to be a “living letter” from Christ, written not with ink but with the Spirit of the living God.Brian shares his remarkable life journey—from growing up in small-town Nebraska and surviving family hardship to living with paralysis after a high school wrestling accident. Through it all, he has discovered that faith isn’t about perfection—it’s about perseverance. Together, Arnie and Brian talk about finding strength in weakness, overcoming anxiety, and recognizing how our ordinary lives can become extraordinary testimonies of God’s grace.Take action with the 4 R’s:Read: Reflect on 2 Corinthians 3:2–3 and Philippians 1:6. Let God remind you that He’s still writing your story for His glory.Reflect: Think about how your life “speaks” to others. What message about Christ do people read when they see your actions and hear your words?Respond: Pray, “Lord, thank You for writing Your message on my heart. Help me deliver it through my life today—one act of kindness at a time.”Reveal: Let someone “read” Jesus in you today. Offer encouragement, share your story, or simply show joy and patience that reflect God’s Spirit at work in you.Quiz: Who was Paul referring to when he wrote, “She has been the benefactor of many people, including me”? Share your answer in the comments or email Arnie at arnie.cole@bttb.orgBefore you go, pause for a moment—you just finished a spiritual rep, and it mattered. Whether you prayed, encouraged a friend, or opened God’s Word, every step strengthens your spiritual fitness. Join us again tomorrow for another Spiritually Fit Today workout—because what you do today matters, and tomorrow you’ll be glad you did.Keywords: Arnie Cole, Brian Meyer, Spiritually Fit Today, 2 Corinthians 3:2–3, Christian testimony, faith through hardship, overcoming anxiety, disability and faith, Philippians 1:6, spiritual growth, Christian encouragement, living letter from Christ, Back to the Bible, daily devotional, Christian podcast, hope, spiritual fitness, gratitude, perseverance, grace, Christian living, faith journey

Stop Sitting Still — Someone Needs What God Gave You

Subscribe to get each episode delivered to your Inbox daily: https://bttb.org/subscribe2sftWelcome to Spiritually Fit Today with Arnie Cole, your spiritual fitness researcher and coach. In this episode, Arnie shares how real change starts with the people God has already placed around you. Drawing from Ephesians 4:11–12, Arnie discusses the power of mentoring, discipleship, and serving in the body of Christ. Through personal stories and practical insights, you'll discover how investing in others multiplies your impact and strengthens your own faith journey.This episode challenges you to step into your God-given role, just as Arnie’s mentor did for him. Learn why spiritual fitness is about daily choices, humble service, and sharing your story to encourage others. Whether you’re new to faith or a seasoned believer, you’ll find motivation to get in the game, support those around you, and let God work through your everyday actions.Take action with the 4 R’s:Read: Dive into Ephesians 4:11–12 and see how God equips every believer for ministry and building up the body of Christ.Reflect: Think about who first influenced your faith journey. How did their investment shape your spiritual growth? What opportunities do you have to invest in others today?Respond: Pray, “Lord, thank You for those who have poured into my life. Give me courage and willingness to step into my role and invest in others. Show me someone I can encourage and help today.”Reveal: Reach out to a friend or fellow believer. Share the truth of Ephesians 4:11–12 and encourage them in their importance to God’s work. Let your actions and words demonstrate Christ’s love and the value of spiritual community.Share your story in the comments or write to Arnie at arniec@bttb.org. Celebrate your spiritual progress this week, and remember—spiritual fitness is about showing up every day, not being perfect. If this episode encouraged you, share it with someone who needs hope and strength.Join us next week for more encouragement on Spiritually Fit Today, because what you do today truly matters—and tomorrow you’ll be glad you did.Keywords: Arnie Cole, Spiritually Fit Today, Christian podcast, spiritual fitness, discipleship, mentoring, Ephesians 4:11–12, Christian encouragement, faith stories, Bible study, Christian growth, serving others, spiritual growth, daily devotion, Christian motivation, Back to the Bible

Stop Watching, Start Living: How to Activate Your Faith

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

The Hidden Strength of a Humble Faith

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

Equipped to Serve: Why Your Faith Needs Movement

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

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