The Living Waters Podcast

Heartache is universal, but for believers, it can deepen faith and reshape the heart. The hosts discuss how Scripture offers real comfort over temporary clichés. They emphasize that God uses pain to draw people closer and that Jesus understands human suffering. Brokenness can lead to repentance and a deeper longing for God, turning sorrow into spiritual growth. They encourage maintaining fellowship during tough times, advocating for the hope found in community and prayer, and reminding listeners that every trial serves a divine purpose.

Looking back at church history may not sound exciting to some, but it’s vital to understanding how God has worked through time. Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar reflect on the church as the story of believers, emphasizing that history reveals God’s ongoing movement beyond the book of Acts. Though historians tell it in an exciting way, church history shows the evidence of faith lived out in different eras. Biographies of faithful men and women remind Christians of how the Lord worked through ordinary people to accomplish extraordinary things, inspiring believers to live with the same devotion today.Oscar begins by discussing Paul’s conversion, a pivotal moment in the spread of the gospel. The guys trace how the church grew organically from that point, not emerging centuries later as some assume. E.Z. focuses on the Council of Nicea, which addressed theological controversy and affirmed Christ’s deity. While Constantine allowed Christianity to be practiced, he did not truly Christianize the empire. Oscar highlights Basil, credited as the father of the first hospital, whose compassion reflected the image of God in all people. His example shows that true faith always leads to action and care for others.The fall of Rome marks another turning point, when the church preserved art and literature but also took on roles it was never meant to hold. The guys note how pagan influences crept into traditions over time and stress that truth must come from Scripture alone. Ray points out that Acts remains the blueprint for the church, calling believers back to gospel proclamation and discipleship. The modern church, he warns, risks valuing entertainment over genuine transformation. The group agrees that true renewal comes from giving prominence to God’s Word and from pursuing historical theology rather than trends or rituals.Finally, they explore the Protestant Reformation. Martin Luther’s stand against the Catholic Church, sparked by his 95 theses, ignited a call for revival rather than rebellion. Though the Catholic Church branded him a troublemaker, Luther sought to restore biblical truth through Scripture, faith, and grace alone. The Reformation was not about creating something new but recovering what had been lost. Reformers relied on Scripture and the writings of the early church fathers to return Christianity to its roots. Their courage paved the way for believers today to read God’s Word freely and pursue authentic faith. Through these key moments, the guys remind listeners that understanding history deepens gratitude for the gospel and renews passion to live it out now.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

What can the past teach believers about how God continues to move today? Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar walk through the story of the church, showing how each era reflects God’s ongoing work beyond the book of Acts. From Paul’s conversion to the Council of Nicea and the compassion of Basil, the guys highlight moments where faith inspired action and truth triumphed over compromise. They warn how the fall of Rome and the rise of worldly influence pushed the church toward roles it was never meant to hold, reminding believers that Scripture alone remains the foundation of truth. As they explore the Protestant Reformation, the guys point to Martin Luther’s bold stand for Scripture, faith, and grace, which restored the heart of Christianity. Through these pivotal events, they encourage believers to see history as a reminder of God’s faithfulness and a call to live out the gospel with renewed conviction today.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 did not appear by chance but was divinely orchestrated by God, whose wisdom ensured that His Word would stand as an indisputable authority through the ages. Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar discuss how Scripture was formed, explaining that man did not grant the Bible’s authority. Many believe the Bible was compiled centuries later by human decision, but in reality, its authority was immediate, and its recognition only confirmed what was already divine. Recognizing the Bible's authority is crucial because it affirms that it is free from error or contradiction, providing everything believers need for their walk with Christ. Unlike the constantly changing nature of science, the message of the Bible stays the same, bringing order where the world brings chaos.The Old Testament was confirmed with its three main divisions—the Law, the Prophets, and the Writings—by 132 BC. Josephus referenced twenty-two sacred books, and by 430 BC, around the time of Malachi, the Old Testament was considered complete. The Apocrypha was later added by the Catholic Church, but not as part of the confirmed canon. Although the original manuscripts no longer exist, Mark emphasizes how scribes took meticulous care in copying the texts, ensuring accuracy through precise measures. The discovery of the Dead Sea Scrolls further demonstrated the reliability of Scripture, showing only minor differences that never changed the meaning.Jesus Himself affirmed the Old Testament, and the apostles understood that their own writings carried divine authority. Just as God made covenants in the Old Testament, Jesus established a new covenant, which required new writings. The apostles, guided by the Holy Spirit, recorded teachings that matched Christ’s promise to bring His words to mind. The detailed genealogies and honest portrayals of flawed heroes throughout scripture attest to the truthfulness of the writers' accounts. God’s Word does not hide human failure but shows how He fulfills His perfect plan through imperfect people.The early church used clear and consistent standards to identify which writings belonged in Scripture. As authentic writings circulated among believers, false ones were naturally rejected. Scripture is described as God-breathed, meaning it comes from Him and has His authority. It is useful for teaching, correction, and training in righteousness, providing everything necessary for faith and life. The Bible remains a trustworthy revelation from the living God, divinely inspired and unchanging, guiding believers to the truth and grounding them in the gospel.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 was not created by man but divinely orchestrated by God to stand as His unchanging Word through the ages. Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar explain that its authority was acknowledged, not granted, and that it has remained flawless and trustworthy from the start. They detail how the Old and New Testaments were affirmed, preserved, and confirmed through careful transmission and divine guidance, showing that even without the original manuscripts, God’s Word has never lost its truth or power. The guys emphasize that Scripture was breathed out by God Himself, making it living and active, unlike anything written by human wisdom. They remind believers that the Bible exposes human weakness but reveals God’s perfect plan, always pointing to Christ. The Bible endures as the inspired, accurate, and eternal Word of God—the ultimate authority and guide for every generation.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

Dive into the transformative power of memorizing Scripture and its role in spiritual strength. Discover personal journeys from confusion to clarity as hosts share how hiding God’s Word in their hearts became a lifeline. Learn the importance of meditation, shaping responses to life’s challenges, and the true value of treasuring Scripture. With practical tips on memorization techniques and modern tools, listeners are encouraged to cultivate a deep, personal connection with the Word—turning it into a vital weapon against temptation.

Memorizing Scripture equips believers to stand firm against temptation and walk in God’s truth. Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar each demonstrate how storing God’s Word in their hearts transformed their faith and helped them rely on divine wisdom instead of the world. As Scripture takes root, it brings conviction, clarity, and strength in moments of struggle, guiding believers to live according to God’s will. The Word is living and active, a lamp to our feet that reveals sin and directs our steps. Through meditation, hearts are renewed and shaped toward godliness, producing lasting fruit. The more believers fill their minds with Scripture, the more it naturally flows in conversation, encouragement, and prayer. Though often neglected today, memorization fills the mind with truth, equips believers to encourage others, and builds a firm foundation of faith. Treasuring the Bible as a priceless gift keeps us close to God, guards us from sin, and draws us deeper into His presence.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

Generosity encompasses time, energy, resources, and prayers, shaping how we live, serve, and influence the world around us. Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar remind believers that God is the ultimate standard of generosity and that everything we have comes from Him, from spiritual blessings to everyday provisions. The guys emphasize that giving is rooted in being fully satisfied in the Lord, recognizing that our most profound joy and fulfillment flow from His hand. When we hunger for Him, our time, talents, and treasures naturally become instruments to bless others, build community, and point people toward God’s goodness.The guys explore generosity in daily life, encouraging believers to offer their skills, invest time in relationships, and give with grace and thoughtfulness. Giving is not limited to finances; it can mean lending possessions, offering gifts of service, mentoring the next generation, or using influence for the good of others. True generosity is sacrificial, not just a matter of convenience or abundance. It extends to sharing the gospel even in the face of rejection or persecution. The generous soul is made rich as it reflects God’s heart, mirrors the ultimate gift of Christ giving His life for humanity, and points others to the joy of living under His provision.Generosity also shapes our finances, relationships, and daily choices. Money and resources amplify what is already in the heart, revealing whether we trust God or cling to security in material things. The guys explain that cheerful, sacrificial giving requires faith, humility, and awareness of the heart, going beyond money to include time, attention, and intentional priorities. Forgiveness is a vital expression of generosity, reflecting the gospel by offering mercy even without reconciliation or recognition. By esteeming others, freely giving of ourselves, and modeling grace, believers demonstrate the transforming power of Christ in both ordinary moments and extraordinary acts.The guys remind believers that generosity is central to the gospel and has historically distinguished Christians in the world. Early believers revolutionized society through radical giving, serving those who hated them, and standing apart through sacrificial love. Generosity continues to witness to both Christians and the unsaved, speaking volumes where words alone cannot reach. It is a freeing practice grounded in trust in the living God. True generosity flows from hearts devoted to Him, willing to give freely and abundantly because His love compels us to reflect His character in every aspect of life.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

Generosity is not just about money but includes our time, talents, resources, and prayers, shaping how we live and serve. Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar remind believers that true giving comes from hearts that delight in the Lord and are rooted in His provision. When we realize that everything we have comes from God, generosity naturally becomes a way to show love, mercy, and trust. It goes beyond finances to investing in others, offering our gifts and skills, spending time in community, and sharing the gospel—even when it requires sacrifice or courage. Generosity also calls us to extend grace and forgiveness, reflecting the mercy we've received from God and breaking cycles of resentment and self-interest. By giving freely and sacrificially, we mirror God’s character, bless those around us, and show the transformative power of Christ in everyday moments and extraordinary acts. True generosity points others to God, models grace, and reminds us that all we have belongs to Him, inviting believers to live as faithful stewards in every part of life and eagerly seek opportunities to bless others as God blesses them.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

We live in a world obsessed with applause, where even our best intentions can quietly turn into performances for the eyes of others. Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar remind believers that the desire to be seen and celebrated is not a minor issue but a heart-level struggle rooted in idolatry. From the beginning, humanity has longed for affirmation apart from God, but Scripture teaches that proper approval comes only from Him. Until we become nothing in our own eyes, God cannot fully display His power through us. The temptation to seek the praise of men lurks in every heart, and even in ministry, it is easy to drift from pleasing God to performing for people.The guys reflect on how easily preaching can become a stage. When props replace Scripture or humor overshadows truth, the message risks becoming entertainment rather than exposition. While creativity, stories, and illustrations can be powerful tools, the heart behind them must be examined. If the goal is applause or attention, the focus has shifted from Christ to self. The battle against showmanship begins in prayer, as we ask God to cleanse our motives and align our hearts with His glory. A faithful preacher studies diligently, prepares with reverence, and views each sermon as an offering, a fragrant sacrifice before the Lord. The real question is whether God is pleased.Social media intensifies this struggle, conditioning us to equate value with likes, followers, and views. The guys urge believers to resist that mindset and to preach, teach, and evangelize, regardless of whether anyone sees it or not. Faithful ministry is rooted in love, love that does not seek its own recognition but points all glory back to God. Congregations also play a role; encouragement is a blessing when it magnifies Christ rather than elevates the preacher. Pride constantly waits to creep in, but humility keeps the heart centered on the truth that apart from God, we can do nothing. All wisdom, insight, and power belong to Him alone.The world, seen clearly in Hollywood, thrives on the praise of man, but followers of Jesus are called to live for a higher audience. Every believer must ask what their motive truly is. Freedom from approval-seeking flows from the cross, where God has already accepted us through Christ’s sacrifice. In that security, we serve from devotion rather than desperation. A life of continual communion with the Lord, anchored in prayer and His Word, shifts our focus from applause to obedience. In the end, faithfulness is not measured by claps or comments but by love, humility, and a heart that seeks only the glory of God.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