Spiritually Fit Today

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

Proactive Prayer: Your Strongest Weapon for 2026

Subscribe to get each episode delivered to your Inbox daily: https://bttb.org/subscribe2sftIn this episode of Spiritually Fit Today, your host Arnie Cole, spiritual fitness researcher and coach, is joined by Dr. Chuck Lawless to explore the real nature of spiritual warfare. Discover why spiritual warfare isn’t about dramatic encounters, but about daily battles fought through prayer, as taught in the Bible. Arnie and Chuck discuss how comfort and complacency can be subtle tactics of the enemy, especially in the U.S., and how proactive prayer is essential in overcoming these challenges. Learn practical ways to guard against spiritual lukewarmness, keep your focus on God, and intercede for others.Action Steps – The 4 R’s:Read: Ephesians 6:12 – “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.”Reflect: Consider how comfort or complacency might be affecting your spiritual life. Are there areas where you’ve become lukewarm or distracted from God’s mission?Respond: Pray, “Lord, open my eyes to the real spiritual battles in my life. Help me to rely on You in prayer and to intercede for others who need Your saving grace.”Reveal: Share with a friend or family member how prayer has helped you face spiritual challenges, or offer to pray for someone who may be struggling.Don’t miss the Soul Pump assignment: Choose one person to pray for today, asking God to open their heart before the battle even begins. Join us tomorrow for more insights and a final challenge from Dr. Lawless.For questions or to connect, email Arnie Cole at arnie.cole@bttb.org.Keywords: spiritual warfare, prayer, Arnie Cole, Chuck Lawless, spiritually fit, Ephesians 6:12, proactive prayer, spiritual fitness, daily devotion, Christian living, Bible study, spiritual growth, overcoming complacency, intercessory prayer, back to the Bible

How to Pray When You Don’t Know What to Say

Subscribe to get each episode delivered to your Inbox daily: https://bttb.org/subscribe2sftIf prayer feels hard, confusing, or inconsistent, you’re not alone. Even the heroes of the Bible struggled with prayer! Join Arnie Cole, your spiritual fitness coach, and special guest Dr. Chuck Lawless as they explore how ordinary believers in both the Old and New Testaments learned to pray by, well, praying. Discover biblical examples of prayer, from the heartfelt cries of David to the disciples’ request, “Lord, teach us to pray” (Luke 11:1). Chuck shares powerful stories and practical insights to help you grow stronger in your prayer life, no matter where you’re starting from.In this episode, you’ll learn:- How Old Testament figures like Jonah and David navigated prayer in times of trouble- The importance of praying Scripture and how it can empower your spiritual journey today- Encouragement that even the disciples needed coaching in prayer.- Actionable takeaways for modern believers as we start the new yearTake action with the 4 R’s:Read: Open your Bible and read one of the prayers discussed in today’s episode (for example, David’s prayer in Psalm 51 or the Lord’s Prayer in Luke 11).Reflect: Think about what this prayer reveals about God’s character and your relationship with Him. How does it speak to your current situation?Respond: Pray the words of Scripture back to God, making them your own. For example, “Lord, create in me a clean heart and renew a right spirit within me.”Reveal: Share what you’ve learned or experienced with someone else—encourage a friend or family member by telling them how praying Scripture has impacted you.Don’t miss tomorrow’s episode, where Chuck Lawless tackles the vital topic of prayer and spiritual warfare. Remember, what you do today truly matters—and tomorrow, you’ll be glad you did!For questions or to connect, email Arnie Cole at arnie.cole@bttb.org.Keywords: prayer, Bible study, spiritual growth, Arnie Cole, Chuck Lawless, praying Scripture, Old Testament, New Testament, Christian living, spiritual fitness, discipleship, faith, spiritual warfare, Back to the Bible, daily devotion, how to pray, prayer life, encouragement, 2026, soul pump, Luke 11, Psalm 51, Christian podcast, Bible heroes, practical faith

The Truth About Hearing God in Prayer

Subscribe to get each episode delivered to your Inbox daily: https://bttb.org/subscribe2sftWhat is prayer, really? In this episode of Spiritually Fit Today, host Arnie Cole and special guest Dr. Chuck Lawless dive deep into the true meaning of prayer. Many of us talk about prayer, but few can define it clearly. Chuck helps us cut through confusion and get practical about how to pray, why it matters, and how to overcome common obstacles. Together, they explore questions like: Why pray if God already knows everything? Does God answer every prayer? How do we discern God’s voice in prayer? And what about relying on others to pray for us?Our scripture focus is James 5:16: "The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective." Discover how prayer is more than just talking—it's participating in God's power.Take action with the 4 R’s:Read: Spend 10 minutes today reading James 5:16 and reflect on its meaning.Reflect: Consider what obstacles keep you from praying and how clarity can help you move from intention to action.Respond: Pray, “God, help me to understand the power of prayer and to trust that you hear me. Remove any confusion or fear, and guide me to grow closer to you through honest conversation.”Reveal: Share with a friend or family member one thing you learned about prayer today, and invite them to join you in a short prayer.For more spiritual fitness tips, questions, or to connect, email Arnie Cole at arnie.cole@bttb.org.Keywords: prayer, how to pray, Chuck Lawless, Arnie Cole, Spiritually Fit Today, James 5:16, Christian living, spiritual growth, Bible study, prayer obstacles, practical prayer, faith, daily devotion, spiritual fitness, Back to the Bible

If Prayer Feels Difficult… This Episode Is for You

Subscribe to get each episode delivered to your Inbox daily: https://bttb.org/subscribe2sftWhy is prayer so important, yet so challenging for many Christ followers? In this episode of Spiritually Fit Today, Arnie Cole, your spiritual fitness researcher and coach, is joined by Dr. Chuck Lawless, author of "The Potential and Power of Prayer." Together, they explore why so many believers struggle to pray consistently, despite knowing its significance. Through personal stories and research insights, Arnie and Chuck discuss the obstacles that keep us from prayer and offer practical steps to overcome them.Our scripture focus is Colossians 4:2: "Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful." This episode emphasizes not just believing in prayer, but being devoted to it—making prayer a daily habit that strengthens your spiritual life.Take action with the 4 R’s:Read: Open your Bible to Colossians 4:2 and read the verse slowly.Reflect: Consider what keeps you from praying regularly. What obstacles stand between your intention and action?Respond: Pray, “Lord, teach me how to pray today. Help me overcome the barriers that keep me from spending time with You.”Reveal: Share with a friend or family member what you learned about prayer today, and encourage them to join you in a three-minute daily prayer challenge.Your spiritual workout for today is simple: set aside just three minutes to pray. Choose a consistent time—while brushing your teeth, brewing coffee, or sitting in your car. Remember, prayer grows with repetition, not perfection. Celebrate each step you take, and come back tomorrow as we continue to learn not just why to pray, but how to pray in a way that transforms your life.For questions or to connect, email Arnie Cole at arnie.cole@bttb.org.Keywords: prayer, spiritual fitness, Arnie Cole, Chuck Lawless, Colossians 4:2, Christian living, daily prayer, spiritual growth, how to pray, Bible study, devotion, Back to the Bible, spiritually fit today, Christian podcast, prayer challenge, faith, overcoming obstacles, spiritual habits, Christian encouragement