The Living Waters Podcast

Ray, E.Z., and Oscar jump into the controversial topic of Taylor Swift’s music. Secular music is not completely off the table for Christians, but caution and conviction are essential. There’s latitude within the faith that allows for engagement with secular music, yet it’s crucial to examine the foundations of these choices and be open to sharpening each other’s understanding.The devotion to Taylor Swift is a phenomenon. Humans are inherently worshipful, and for the secular world, concerts can be a form of worship. Singing together embeds narratives into our hearts, much as a religious experience. Music’s power is significant. Parents should be mindful of what their children are exposed to, including Taylor Swift’s songs. Her lyrics, often seen as innocent, have evolved and can be concerning.From a marketing perspective, starting with clean lyrics captures a broad audience, which may then follow an artist into more mature themes. Taylor Swift has transitioned from America’s sweetheart to a feminist icon, with her lyrics becoming increasingly explicit. This shift should prompt parents to consider what they are endorsing when supporting her music and concerts. Some of her lyrics now contain blasphemous content.Many dismiss the impact of hearing cuss words; however, the Bible advises caution about what enters our hearts and minds, emphasizing the pursuit of purity and goodness. The stories conveyed in Swift’s music are also a point of importance. Her songs reflect a searching for self-worth and addressing desires. These themes often contradict scripture and promote a false gospel of self-reliance and expressive individualism.This discussion is not an attack on Taylor Swift but a caution for her. The aim is to urge her to turn away from sin and embrace a more righteous path. Corrupt entertainment influences our thoughts, and Christians should instead align their desires with God’s will. Words have power, and the messages in music can shape our thinking.Swift’s use of religious language to discuss sexuality is another concern. True fulfillment and identity are found in the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, not in sexual desires. The Song of Solomon presents a view of holy sexuality that contrasts with the world’s messages. Swift’s lyrics mock Christian values and blaspheme God. Many Christians may not realize the current state of Swift’s music. It’s essential to meditate on what is good and pure. Engaging with secular music requires discernment and a focus on maintaining spiritual integrity.Send us a textThanks for listening! If you’ve been helped by this podcast, we’d be grateful if you’d consider subscribing, sharing, and leaving us a comment and 5-star rating! Visit the Living Waters website to learn more and to access helpful resources!You can find helpful counseling resources at biblicalcounseling.com.Check out The Evidence Study Bible and the Basic Training Course.You can connect with us at podcast@livingwaters.com. We're thankful for your input!Learn more about the hosts of this podcast.Ray ComfortEmeal (“E.Z.”) ZwayneMark SpenceOscar Navarro

Exploring the clash between secular psychology and Christianity, the podcast debates the practicality of owning robotic dogs, managing stress with humor, and the flaws in psychology. Delving into controversies in psychology and Christianity, the hosts discuss differing views on human nature, punishment, and rehabilitation. They emphasize the importance of integrating psychological principles with biblical truths for inner healing and overcoming negative thoughts.

Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar help listeners understand healing through the context of scripture. The Lord provides healing through natural means, illustrated by a story where a man’s voice was miraculously restored while he was reading a passage from Psalms, despite having a permanent condition. This contrasts sharply with the disillusionment caused by fake healings, where charlatans exploit people’s hopes. Such practices lead some to deny the possibility of healing altogether. However, healing is a central theme in the New Testament.The guys talk about maintaining an expectation that God can heal, whether in this life or in the next. Jesus’ healings were not just acts of compassion but also demonstrations of the coming Kingdom of God, much like parables that reveal deeper truths to those who seek understanding. We must trust in the Lord and have faith, recognizing that while health is a blessing, sickness can often draw us closer to God. God’s grace is sufficient for us, and He may choose to heal or He may not. A lack of healing does not necessarily indicate insufficient faith. There are numerous examples in Scripture where Jesus heals despite a person’s doubt or weak faith. God allows His servants to endure suffering for their sanctification. For instance, Stephen was stoned to death according to God’s will. Sickness can serve God’s glory or act as discipline, but it is incorrect to view all illness as punishment.Some individuals avoid modern medicine, believing they must rely solely on God for healing. However, modern medicine is an act of God’s mercy, saving countless lives from common ailments. Medicine is part of God’s common grace, benefiting both believers and unbelievers alike.Miracles performed by Jesus demonstrate His power over our fears and affirm His role as the promised snake crusher, destined to reverse the curse of sin. Jesus experienced the full wrath of God on the cross, allowing us to look forward to eternity without suffering. God has addressed our suffering through Christ, and ultimate healing is assured in the life to come.In conclusion, while we trust in God for healing and acknowledge that He can work through both miraculous and natural means, we must also understand that suffering and illness can have a purpose in God’s greater plan. The ultimate healing and restoration are promised in eternity where all suffering will cease and we will experience the fullness of God’s glory. Until then, we rely on God’s grace, which is sufficient for every circumstance, and we trust in His wisdom and timing for our healing.Send us a textThanks for listening! If you’ve been helped by this podcast, we’d be grateful if you’d consider subscribing, sharing, and leaving us a comment and 5-star rating! Visit the Living Waters website to learn more and to access helpful resources!You can find helpful counseling resources at biblicalcounseling.com.Check out The Evidence Study Bible and the Basic Training Course.You can connect with us at podcast@livingwaters.com. We're thankful for your input!Learn more about the hosts of this podcast.Ray ComfortEmeal (“E.Z.”) ZwayneMark SpenceOscar Navarro

Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar start this conversation by talking about 1 Timothy 3, which points out that mankind are lovers of themselves rather than God. All generations have sins, and today’s social media makes this more apparent. Oscar is intentional about discipling young people, noting that our culture today pales in comparison to the Greco-Roman culture that the early church faced, where Christianity still boomed. Today, there’s a lack of respect for authority and discipline, with too much pride to be governed by others. So, how do we reach young people?Past generations didn’t have today’s technology, and now there is constant exposure to disrespectful behavior. Many kids are on iPads in restaurants, and parents often don’t realize the harmful content coming from the internet and how it impacts their children. Parents must guard and love their children proactively. The local church holds significant value. Invest in the kids in your church and other young people. Lowering the bar can prevent kids from becoming sober-minded adults. It’s important to speak the truth to the younger generations about the gospel.We need to turn to God, the Maker, for solutions to our problems. Discipleship happens through living life together. We are always discipling our kids, intentionally or not. To disciple a child, invite them along and talk to them. The guys shared experiences of adults who truly listened to them as kids, making them feel important. Listening is key to reaching young people effectively. Invest in the younger generation by listening to them and speaking life into them. Encourage and build one another up, seeing young people as brothers and sisters in Christ.There should be a multi-generational approach to ministry. A common fault in ministering to young people is watering down the gospel. Many churches are consumeristic, resembling auditoriums. We shouldn’t strive to be hip and cool; this can drive young people away. Instead, young people should feel a sense of transcendence and humility.To the young people: Get to know God through His Word. Learn, sing to the Lord, study apologetics, and be bold in sharing the gospel. Read more books while you have the opportunity. Remember that God is always with you. To the older generations, the key to reaching youth is through youth. Harness their energy and equip them to share the gospel. Older generations should not despise youth but see them as examples of walking with the Lord. Young people should seek advice and listen to wise counsel, balancing youthful zeal with mature wisdom.Send us a textThanks for listening! If you’ve been helped by this podcast, we’d be grateful if you’d consider subscribing, sharing, and leaving us a comment and 5-star rating! Visit the Living Waters website to learn more and to access helpful resources!You can find helpful counseling resources at biblicalcounseling.com.Check out The Evidence Study Bible and the Basic Training Course.You can connect with us at podcast@livingwaters.com. We're thankful for your input!Learn more about the hosts of this podcast.Ray ComfortEmeal (“E.Z.”) ZwayneMark SpenceOscar Navarro

The Bible emphasizes honoring and learning from our elders. The guys talk of society’s tendencies to isolate the elderly, but their wisdom and experiences are invaluable, reminding us of our shared mortality and the importance of intergenerational connections.A society's treatment of the elderly often reflects its moral standing. Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar have an honest conversation about the treatment of elderly people in our current society. Deuteronomy criticizes Israel for its lack of respect for the elderly, but the guys point to historical times when the elderly were honored. Today, many elderly people are placed in retirement homes, leading to depression as their world shrinks. This isolation reflects a cultural discomfort with aging and mortality. Oscar shares his experience of welcoming his grandmother into his home, highlighting the beauty in caring for elderly family members. Similarly, Ray regrets once unintentionally mocking the elderly in his sermons. He emphasizes the need for sympathy and respect, noting that the elderly are essentially young people in old bodies, still cherishing life despite changes brought by age.Aging serves as a reminder of the fallen nature of our world. We should support the elderly through companionship, listening to their stories, helping with errands, and offering financial and medical assistance. Advocating for their rights and protecting them from scams is also crucial. Many elderly people, who once raised families, now sit alone. The guys emphasize the biblical call to care for widows and the elderly.Ray recalls helping his elderly neighbor, and Mark shares a poignant story of visiting a nursing home where he witnessed a resident's gradual decline and eventual passing. These personal experiences remind us of the inevitable cycle of life and our future selves in the elderly we now see. It is also important to remember that our parents and grandparents are experiencing life for the first time, just as we are.There's a prevalent arrogance among the young today, who often fail to recognize that they, too, will age. Conversations with the elderly can be challenging due to personal biases, but these fears are unfounded. Elderly individuals, who spend more time contemplating mortality, can offer valuable insights. It's essential to boldly share the gospel with them, acknowledging the fleeting nature of life for everyone.Grey hair symbolizes a life well-lived and the wisdom that comes with it. The guys encourage us to visit our grandparents, call our parents, and connect with the elderly, taking this as an opportunity for personal growth and conviction.Send us a textThanks for listening! If you’ve been helped by this podcast, we’d be grateful if you’d consider subscribing, sharing, and leaving us a comment and 5-star rating! Visit the Living Waters website to learn more and to access helpful resources!You can find helpful counseling resources at biblicalcounseling.com.Check out The Evidence Study Bible and the Basic Training Course.You can connect with us at podcast@livingwaters.com. We're thankful for your input!Learn more about the hosts of this podcast.Ray ComfortEmeal (“E.Z.”) ZwayneMark SpenceOscar Navarro

Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar dive into the life of John the Baptist, His life is one of profound humility, unwavering faith, and a steadfast commitment to God's purpose. John the Baptist, a humble man clothed in camel hair, was a voice in the wilderness, pointing out people's transgressions and preparing the way for Jesus. He exemplified humility, saying he must decrease so the Lord could increase.John’s ministry pointed to Jesus, showing us our role in doing the same. In the Old Testament, high priests offered sacrifices to cover sins temporarily, but Jesus, whom John called the Lamb of God, came to take away sins permanently. When Elizabeth, John’s mother, and Mary, Jesus’ mother, greeted each other, John leaped in Elizabeth’s womb, showing that life and joy exist even before birth. This demonstrates that even a fetus is made in God's image. John worshiped his Creator even in the womb, illustrating the sanctity of life.The guys touch on how John preached repentance, a message often resisted both in his day and in ours. Repentance should not be seen as a threat but as an invitation to return to our Creator. Understanding the death that comes with sin highlights the necessity of repentance, which is a joyous and beautiful return to God. True repentance produces visible fruit in one's life.John declared that he was not worthy to carry Jesus' sandals, contrasting with some modern preachers who seek to build their own followings. He reminded people that they must decrease for Christ to increase, exemplifying humility by acknowledging his unworthiness compared to Jesus. Even when John baptized Jesus, he felt unworthy.Later, John asked Jesus if He was the awaited Savior, a moment that may seem like doubt. Despite John's early recognition of Jesus and his role in baptizing Him, he experienced uncertainty before his execution. Jesus reassured him, calling John the greatest born of woman. The guys emphasize that the strength of  John’s faith didn't save him; it was the strength of its object—Jesus. We must decide whether to be offended by Christ or to bow to Him, recognizing that our spirit should desire to have sin removed.John preached God's law fearlessly, even before a king. The king ultimately commanded his beheading, showing that sin seeks to destroy truth and conviction. John’s fate is a reminder of sin’s destructive power and the need for unwavering commitment to God’s truth. John the Baptist's life was a testament to decreasing so that Christ could be seen. We should follow his example, living lives full of Christ to glorify God, for He is worthy of all.Send us a textThanks for listening! If you’ve been helped by this podcast, we’d be grateful if you’d consider subscribing, sharing, and leaving us a comment and 5-star rating! Visit the Living Waters website to learn more and to access helpful resources!You can find helpful counseling resources at biblicalcounseling.com.Check out The Evidence Study Bible and the Basic Training Course.You can connect with us at podcast@livingwaters.com. We're thankful for your input!Learn more about the hosts of this podcast.Ray ComfortEmeal (“E.Z.”) ZwayneMark SpenceOscar Navarro

Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar dive into the life of Lot. Despite his failures, 2 Peter calls Lot righteous, highlighting the need to understand the gospel. Abram and Lot parted ways because the land couldn't support both of them. Lot chose the plain of Jordan, settling in Sodom, known for its wickedness. This decision reflects the danger of being drawn away from the Lord by our desires. Wise decisions and heartfelt prayer are crucial, and trusting God's wisdom over our own is essential. Lot compromised his views, a theme common among many pastors today. Compromise can start in small areas, leading us away from GodLot's choice parallels the rebellion seen in Cain and Abel's story. He left God's promises for his desires, leading to captivity. Abraham rescued Lot, perhaps a divine opportunity for Lot to leave Sodom, but he persisted. When sojourners visited Sodom, Lot insisted they stay with him, aware of the city's dangers. The men of Sodom shamelessly sought to harm the visitors, reflecting the unashamed sin prevalent today. Church membership is important because of the shamelessness of our society. Welcoming unbelievers shouldn't mean compromising on sin. Christians must remember their past and separate from sinful influences while engaging with the world. Lot's compromise, seen in his use of agape love towards the attackers, shows the dangers of sin.The men tried to break into Lot's house, but they were struck blind and unable to find the door. The guys talk about how God allows people to pursue their sinful desires, leading to reprobate minds. Despite their blindness, the men persisted, reflecting a growing societal attitude. Lot was told to leave Sodom, but he hesitated, showing delayed obedience. Believers must trust God's commands without delay. Sin is deadly, and sometimes God must forcefully remove us from it. Sodom and Gomorrah's destruction with fire and brimstone serves as a stark warning.Lot's wife looked back at Sodom, turning into a pillar of salt, showing her attachment to the sinful city. Abraham's prayer for Lot's salvation exemplifies intercessory prayer. The covenant with Abraham declared Lot righteous, paralleling Jesus' ultimate sacrifice. Looking at Lot’s life, we see that sin has consequences even for believers. Lot's daughters, influenced by Sodom's perverse culture, committed incest which lead to the Moabites, enemies of Israel. This story emphasizes the importance of obedience to God and the repercussions of sinful choices. Believers should flee from sin and run towards the Lord.Send us a textThanks for listening! If you’ve been helped by this podcast, we’d be grateful if you’d consider subscribing, sharing, and leaving us a comment and 5-star rating! Visit the Living Waters website to learn more and to access helpful resources!You can find helpful counseling resources at biblicalcounseling.com.Check out The Evidence Study Bible and the Basic Training Course.You can connect with us at podcast@livingwaters.com. We're thankful for your input!Learn more about the hosts of this podcast.Ray ComfortEmeal (“E.Z.”) ZwayneMark SpenceOscar Navarro

Diligence, defined as constant and earnest effort, is increasingly rare today. Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar talk about how past generations exhibited more diligence due to fewer distractions; news came from stagnant newspapers rather than incessant digital media. Modern distractions are leading us into a state of spiritual oblivion, making it crucial to prioritize goals and establish systems to achieve them. Proverbs warns against laziness, underscoring the connection between diligence and fruitfulness. Achieving anything requires hard work, persistence, and common sense.A disciplined life involves intentionally creating time and space for fellowship with God, not as a checklist but as a way to fulfill our roles meaningfully. Understanding your role, knowing your limits, and planning ahead are vital. Drafting a vision statement based on scripture helps set up effective routines. Our minds are shaped by what we fill them with, and much of our attention is stolen by distractions. Living to glorify God requires diligent attention to our spiritual lives.The importance of rising early and dedicating the first part of the day to the Lord is emphasized by the guys. While sleep is a gift from God, habits must be examined and adjusted to prioritize time with Him. Deep fellowship with the Lord is essential for a meaningful life, and waking up with purpose can help avoid laziness. Proverbs also warns against slothfulness, noting that our habits shape our hearts. If Christ isn't at the center of our habits, we will stray. Lack of joy and fullness in life often indicates the need for spiritual realignment.Reading the Bible daily and exploring John Wesley’s journal, which showcases his time-maximizing diligence, can inspire steadfastness. Wesley's eternal mindset and efficient use of his day highlight the preciousness of time. Remaining diligent and steadfast, practicing spiritual disciplines, and focusing on God’s kingdom are crucial for impactful Christian living. Worldly diligence, if redirected towards Christ, could greatly benefit the church. Jesus valued energetic action and generosity, favoring peacemakers over peacekeepers.Living Waters ministry exemplifies diligence born out of devotion. Christians should be the most diligent people, recognizing the greatness of their work and the shortness of time. Working diligently for the Lord is fulfilling. Those who have been lazy should repent and reduce their consumption of worldly things, redirecting their focus towards serving God with dedication.Send us a textThanks for listening! If you’ve been helped by this podcast, we’d be grateful if you’d consider subscribing, sharing, and leaving us a comment and 5-star rating! Visit the Living Waters website to learn more and to access helpful resources!You can find helpful counseling resources at biblicalcounseling.com.Check out The Evidence Study Bible and the Basic Training Course.You can connect with us at podcast@livingwaters.com. We're thankful for your input!Learn more about the hosts of this podcast.Ray ComfortEmeal (“E.Z.”) ZwayneMark SpenceOscar Navarro

Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar are talking about Samuel, the last judge and first prophet of Israel, who stands as a figure of profound significance in biblical history. Born to Hannah, who had fervently prayed for a child due to her infertility, Samuel's very existence was a testament to the power of prayer and God's faithfulness in answering it. Dedicated to temple service from infancy as a result of his mother's vow.One of the most recognizable stories from Samuel's life is his initial encounter with God's calling, where he mistook God’s voice for that of Eli, the high priest. This moment carries profound spiritual symbolism, suggesting the necessity of discernment and repentance before fully embracing one's identity as a child of God. This theme resonates with the personal testimonies shared among the guys, particularly Oscar's journey from ignorance of the Bible to a profound embrace of its teachings.Samuel's early prophetic message, condemning Eli's failure in parental guidance and the subsequent corruption of his sons, underscores the importance of discipline rooted in love and grounded in the law. The guys emphasize the critical role of parents in instilling moral and spiritual values in their children, ensuring their steadfastness in the face of temptation and sin. Despite witnessing the consequences of Eli's shortcomings firsthand, Samuel unwittingly repeats similar errors by appointing his own corrupt sons as judges. This narrative highlights the insidious nature of sin and the imperative of heeding God’s instruction.Israel did not trust in God to lead them, so they demanded a king. Samuel anointing David, a shepherd boy, as king is symbolic of God's sovereignty in choosing the seemingly insignificant to fulfill His purposes. This underscores a recurring motif in biblical narratives, where God looks at the heart of a man instead of the outward appearance. Israel's demand for a king shows how, yet again, they did not trust in the Lord to lead them. Saul's subsequent disobedience and downfall serve as a warning against the dangers of pride and self-reliance, illustrating the devastating effects of sin.In Samuel's roles as priest and prophet one can discern foreshadowings of Jesus Christ. Ultimately, the stories of Samuel and other Old Testament figures are not merely historical anecdotes or moral allegories but integral components of God's grand narrative of redemption and reconciliation. Samuel's life serves as a poignant reminder of God's faithfulness, human frailty, and the enduring hope of salvation offered through Christ.Send us a textThanks for listening! If you’ve been helped by this podcast, we’d be grateful if you’d consider subscribing, sharing, and leaving us a comment and 5-star rating! Visit the Living Waters website to learn more and to access helpful resources!You can find helpful counseling resources at biblicalcounseling.com.Check out The Evidence Study Bible and the Basic Training Course.You can connect with us at podcast@livingwaters.com. We're thankful for your input!Learn more about the hosts of this podcast.Ray ComfortEmeal (“E.Z.”) ZwayneMark SpenceOscar Navarro

Developing godly discernment is essential in navigating the complexities of truth and falsehood, particularly amidst the plethora of false teachings in modern times. Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar bring up Psalm 119:66, and how it beautifully compares discernment to tasting, implying a gradual refinement of perception. Just as one's palate adjusts to appreciate the nuances of coffee beyond its initial bitterness, believers are encouraged to allow Scripture to shape their worldview, enabling them to distinguish what is good and true from what is deceitful or harmful.Discernment encompasses both the use of senses and intellect, allowing people to perceive and judge rightly. In today's culture, where moral relativism often blurs the lines between good and evil, the need for discernment is incredibly important. This underscores the importance of humility before God, as pride can obstruct growth and hinder one's ability to receive correction or repentance. Humility fosters an openness to learning and a willingness to acknowledge one's blind spots, essential for spiritual growth.Moreover, cultivating discernment is not a solitary endeavor but thrives within the context of community, particularly within the framework of a local church. A supportive community provides accountability and encouragement, aiding believers in their journey of discernment. The guys encourage believers to invest  in relationships with fellow believers allowing for the sharpening of discernment through dialogue and mutual edification.Love for others is deeply intertwined with discernment, as it enables believers to serve one another and strive for blamelessness before God. Effective evangelism also hinges on discernment, particularly in using the law to reveal sin, as exemplified by Jesus. By meditating on Scripture and seeking to understand God's will, believers deepen their discernment and align themselves more closely with His purposes. Wisdom, often synonymous with discernment, often isn’t pursued with the same fervor that people often use to pursue material gain. Wisdom guides leadership and influences decision-making, helping individuals avoid folly and harm. Learning from the mistakes of others and seeking wise counsel are crucial aspects of cultivating discernment and avoiding pitfalls.In conclusion, in an age marked by information overload but a scarcity of wisdom, prioritizing godly discernment is imperative for believers. By anchoring themselves in Scripture, humbling themselves before God, and fostering relationships within the body of Christ, believers can navigate the complexities of life with clarity and integrity.Send us a textThanks for listening! If you’ve been helped by this podcast, we’d be grateful if you’d consider subscribing, sharing, and leaving us a comment and 5-star rating! Visit the Living Waters website to learn more and to access helpful resources!You can find helpful counseling resources at biblicalcounseling.com.Check out The Evidence Study Bible and the Basic Training Course.You can connect with us at podcast@livingwaters.com. We're thankful for your input!Learn more about the hosts of this podcast.Ray ComfortEmeal (“E.Z.”) ZwayneMark SpenceOscar Navarro