Live Free with Josh Howerton

This week, we have been looking at Deuteronomy 14:4 and what it means to fear the Lord. One of the competing fears many of us wrestle with is fear of man. Only one can win. On the night of Jesus’ crucifixion, Peter’s fear of man was stronger, and he denied Christ. Yet after Peter saw the risen Jesus, he couldn’t stop sharing the gospel and wanted to please God more than man. Which Peter are you today?For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

Have you ever considered why the Bible asks us to fear the Lord? Scripture helps us understand who God really is. He is a God who saves and defeats His enemies. He is compassionate and yet also a consuming fire. He is a holy, perfect, and just God. He is the one we sin against, and because of His greatness, our well-deserved punishment is severe. Yet our infinite, loving God offers us grace through the blood of Jesus: an infinite gift we could never repay.For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

God is infinitely more glorious and powerful than we can ever understand. The Bible tells us that our appropriate response is the fear of the Lord. Deuteronomy tells us that the fear of God is to obey His commands, listen to His voice, and hold fast to Him with the highest reverence and trembling. What is your heart posture towards God this week? Would you say you fear God the way the Bible describes?For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

Nehemiah's leadership qualities exemplify the art of recognizing potential, envisioning success and collaborating with the team as a servant leader. He values and acknowledges everyone who contributes to the mission while attributing all achievements to God and celebrating His goodness. Exceptional leaders genuinely prioritize bringing people together, paving the path for lost people to establish a meaningful relationship with God. Remember, every person holds significant value in the eyes of God.For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

Nehemiah's excellent leadership character traits showed how big and great God is. Nehemiah's unified team was able to do the impossible and rebuild the wall in supernatural record-breaking days. Completing God's vision of building the kingdom of heaven requires a unified team that appreciates everyone's unique skill sets and humble hearts that deflect all credit to God's greatness. Only God can genuinely pull off something that is true, great, and that will last.For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

When leaders have a strong vision, they can ask for help for a cause and have people motivated to join the process. Nehemiah serves as an exemplary model by motivating and commending those who assisted him in reconstructing the protective wall around God's nation. People thrive on recognition for their positive contributions, appreciating acknowledgment rather than constant correction. Consider expressing gratitude today towards those deserving of appreciation for their dedication.For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

A great leader is contagiously forward-thinking with a fresh vision despite the history of hard times. Nehemiah had a humble boldness, and because of that, he could ask others to partner with him. He did so because courage is not the absence of fear but moving ahead despite fear.A great leader is contagiously forward-thinking with a fresh vision despite the history of hard times. Nehemiah had a humble boldness, and because of that, he could ask others to partner with him. He did so because courage is not the absence of fear but moving ahead despite fear."The king said to me, 'What is it you want?' Then I prayed to the God of heaven, and I answered the king, 'If it pleases the king and if your servant has found favor in his sight, let him send me to the city in Judah where my ancestors are buried so that I can rebuild it.'" (Nehemiah 2:4-5 NIV)For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

Who do you look up to as a leader? Who looks up to you? Nehemiah exemplifies vital leadership qualities involving confronting challenges with sincerity and humility. Embodying Nehemiah's characteristics is advised regardless of the reality or mess. Acknowledge the hard truths, confront chaos directly, seek guidance in your prayer life, and actively involve God in rebuilding. Today: What reality do you need to face and invite God into?For more biblical teaching and worship, join us for our Church Online live weekend services on Saturdays and Sundays.For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

You may not be able to write a clear definition of authenticity, but you know it when you see it.Daniel’s character and active faith impacted not just those around him but multiple generations of royals and the lost nation of Babylon. “...For he is the living God, and he endures forever; his kingdom will not be destroyed, his dominion will never end. He rescues and he saves; he performs signs and wonders in the heavens and on the earth. He has rescued Daniel from the power of the lions.’ So Daniel prospered during the reign of Darius and the reign of Cyrus the Persian” (Daniel 6:26-28 NIV). What would someone say about your character? Are you the real deal?For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

Daniel was cast into the lion’s den because he committed to worshipping God despite an unjust decree. His integrity and steadfast prayer routine were crucial in keeping him safe. Despite the challenges, Daniel aimed to maintain a humble connection with God daily. Do people around you know who you serve continually?“So the king gave the order, and they brought Daniel and threw him into the lions’ den. The king said to Daniel, “May your God, whom you serve continually, rescue you!” (Daniel 6:16)For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive