Questions to Ask Yourself For 2012

10 Questions for the New Year?—Following are 10 questions from NavPress author Donald Whitney to help you evaluate the condition of your spiritual life. God’s plan is for all of us to live at full spiritual capacity! These questions help us think and move in this direction.

1. Do you thirst for God?

2. Are you governed increasingly by God’s Word?

3. Are you more loving?

4. Are you more sensitive to God’s presence?

5. Do you have a growing concern for the spiritual and temporal needs of others?

6. Do you delight in the Bride of Christ?

7. Are the spiritual disciplines increasingly important to you?

8. Do you still grieve over sin?

9. Are you a quick to forgive?

10. Do you yearn for heaven and to be with Jesus?

Merry Christmas Everybody!!

10 Days of Christmas Devotional - Jesus is Radically Divisive

Matthew 2:3 says, When Herod the king heard this he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him.


Herod heard the news of the birth of a "king" and shook in his boots.  So did the religious establishment.  We tend to want to put Jesus in a box, to control Him, to make Him nice, and safe, and passive.  This is the guy who dumped tables over in the Temple and who said in Matthew 10:34, "Do not think that I have come to bring peace to the earth. I have not come to bring peace, but a sword."  Jesus knew the Gospel would divide this world. It is as true today as it has always been. If you know Christ that is passive and safe and exists primarily to meet your needs and make you comfortable, you don't know the real Jesus.

10 Days of Christmas Devotional - God Places Tremendous Value On the Lowly and the Lost

Luke 2:8-9 says, And in the same region there were shepherds out in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And an angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were filled with fear.


Who were the first to hear publicly about the Christ child's birth? The Roman ruler? The religious establishment? Nope! Dudes keeping sheep. God loves the outcasts and the low. We all struggle at times with feelings of low self worth.  We look at the world around us and feel at the bottom of the pile.  But fear not!!  You are in the right place to have God reach down and use you for a powerful purpose!  That's His way.

10 Days of Christmas Devotional - When God Does Awesome Stuff For Us, The Proper Response is Praise

Luke 1:46-48 says, And Mary said, "My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has looked on the humble estate of his servant."


Mary knew God had touched her life. Her response? Unabashed, heartfelt praise. Plain and simple. When God does good for us the most perfect response is pure, honest thankfulness and praise acknowledging His favor over us.

Jacob T. Marley - A Prequel to A Christmas Carol

Marley was dead, to begin with...

These words begin one of my favorite Christmas stories, A Christmas Carol. The beloved classic by Charles Dickens that has been made over and over again on stage and screen (my favorite being the Patrick Stewart version though the George C. Scott adaptation is a close second) and it tells the story of Ebenezer Scrooge and the process of redemption he goes through the night before Christmas.  However, the tale of his long time partner Jacob Marley is over-looked, until now.

R. William (Bill) Bennett rewinds the story to reveal the life of Jacob T. Marley who was allowed to return as a ghost to warn Scrooge away from the destructive path he had chosen.  Why was he allowed to return? Why was he not given the same chance to change?  Or had he?

Bennett's book has the sound and feel of the Dickens' classic and transports you back into that world.  With such remarkable story-telling, Bennett investigates and uncovers a life worth redeeming and delivers a wonderful companion to the classic Christmas tale.

To hear my interview with Bill Bennett click here or scroll down.

10 Days of Christmas Devotional - The Gospel is Not a Secret

Luke 2:17-18, And when they saw it, they made known the saying that had been told them concerning this child. And all who heard it wondered at what the shepherds told them.


The shepherds saw the Baby and took to shoutin' in the streets! (well... maybe, but you never know!) The Gospel is by nature contagious. We are called to be people who openly speak to the saving grace of Christ in an individual's life. Let's get equipped to do this: read and study the Scriptures, be a part of an active discipleship community (Sunday School or small group), learn to tell your story, etc.  Always be prepared to share the hope you have - with energy!

10 Days of Christmas Devotional - We Should Approach Jesus With Reverance and Honor

Luke 1:31-33 says, And behold, you will concerive in your womd and bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. And the Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over the house of JAcob forever, and of his kingdom there will be no end.


Many Christ-followers are guilty of downplaying Jesus' majesty. While we see Jesus as our personal Savior, He is also King of Kings, the Son of the Most High, the Holy Ruler who sits enthroned as Lord over all nations. As we pray, as we sing, as we teach let's be reminded Who it is we are serving. Jesus does not exist to answer to us. It's, in fact quite the opposite.

10 Days of Christmas Devotional - Responding to God in Obediance Allows Us to be Used to Our Fullest Intended Purpose

Luke 1:38, And Mary said, 'Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word.' And the angel departed from her.


When you feel God leading you to do something, or take some sort of action, the right response is obedience.  When you obey God, He can actually use you.  If you will not obey God's leading, they deprive yourself of being vital tools in His hands.  God is on mission... whether or not we choose to join Him is on us.

10 Days of Christmas Devotional - The Bible is a Record of God Working to Achieve His Purpose

Luke 2:4-5 says, And Joseph also went up from Galilee, from the town of Nazareth, to Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, to be registered with Mary, his betrothed, who was with child.


God promised David that someone from his lineage would always be on the throne. This happened, oh, roughly half a millennia before Christ was born! Fulfilled prophecy is an incredible teaching tool to help give your students confidence in God’s powerful providence. God is at work, in history and in the lives of your students. And that is really cool.

10 Days of Christmas Devotional - The Harder the Situation the Greater the Faith

Matthew 1:24-25 (ESV) says, When Joseph woke from sleep, he did as the angel of the Lord commanded him: he took his wife, but knew her not until she had given birth to a son. And he called his name Jesus.


Joseph may be my favorite (human) character of the Christmas Narrative. What incredible faith! Everything in him said to divorce Mary (and do it quietly to protect her life . . . what love!). But Joseph showed immense faith in the Lord’s plan. You can benefit immensely from Joseph’s example here.

10 Days of Christmas Devotional - You're Never Too Young to Be Used by God

Luke 1:26-27 says, In the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. And the virgin's name was Mary.

Mary was pretty young. Scholars' opinions range anywhere from 13 or 14 years old to 18 or 19.  The point is this: God used Mary in a miraculous way.  That's God's M.O.  He used Mary when she was just a teenager.  We could also mention her cousin Elizabeth who gave birth at an older age.  It doesn't matter your age, position in life or your circumstances (do a study on the town of Nazareth), God can and will use you today as vital parts of His plan to redeem humankind.

10 Days of Christmas Devotional - The Incarnation is Awesome

Luke 2:6-7, And while they were there, the time came for her to give birth. And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in swaddling cloths and laid him in a manger because there was no room in the inn.


It seems this generation places a high value on authenticity. There is nothing more authentic than the God of the Universe taking in human form in order to perfectly save his creation from themselves. We can know and worship and relate to God because He became one of us.

The Grace Effect

Where would the U.S. be without the influence of Christian values?  Historian and author Larry Taunton has taken up answering this question in his new book, The Grace Effect: how the Power of One Life Can Reverse the Corruption of Unbelief.  Taunton tells the captivating story of his family's efforts to adopt a Ukrainian orphan named Sasha, the Godless world they encountered along the way, and the glimpse they saw of future America if radical secularists have their way.

Through the narrative of Sasha's redemption, you see the false promises of socialism; the soul-destroying influence of unbelief; and how a society cultivates its own demise when it rejects the ultimate source of grace.  But they also see the power of the grace effect, an observable phenomenon proving that life is demonstrably better where authentic Christianity flourishes.



To listen to the interview please click here or scroll down.  For more information on this remarkable story click here.

Larry Taunton is the founder and executive director of Fixed Point Foundation, a non-profit dedicated to the defense of the Christian faith. In that role, Taunton has personally engaged some of the most vociferous opponents of Christianity, including Richard Dawkins, Peter Singer and Christopher Hitches.
Taunton has written a great article regarding the on-going anti-Tebow stories that will engage you in a new way - read the article here.  Plus he also developed the Lookup316 Superbowl ad, which was rejected by the network. Watch the commercial below:

Answers for Skeptics

Dr. Alex McFarland, religion and culture expert, is a renowned expert in Christian apologetics.  He is the host of the TV program Sound Rezn and is the co-host for Explore the World.  He has authored several books including, The 10 Most Common Objections to Christianity, Stand Strong: In College, 10 Questions Every Christian Must Answer plus others.

One thing you will find about Dr. McFarland's books is that they are well-written.  They are intellectual yet easy to understand.  He doesn't shy away from the hard topics but confronts them head on.  His latest book, 10 Answers for Skeptics, identifies the 10 most common types of skepticism that plague doubters' minds and offers believers proven strategies for connecting intellectually and spiritually with those who are skeptical about the claims of Christianity.

Dinesh D'Souza, New York Times best-selling author and president of The King's College, says in his forward to the book, "His enthusiasm is contagious not only in person but also in his writing. Alex's latest contribution to the field of apologetics, 10 Answers for Skeptics, is a unique blend of reason and experience. The result is a book that offers answers to intellectual barries as well as the experiential challenges to faith that trouble many skeptics."

During my interview with Alex we talked about his new book plus his latest debate with president of American Atheists David Silverman over the topic "Is Christianity good for America?"  To listen click here or scroll down.

The Forgiveness Project

As the holidays approach, a few unwelcome guests will arrive in many homes - stess, depression, and anxiety - all thans to the overwhelming demands of the days between Thanksgiving and the New Year.

Author, researcher and forgiveness expert Dr. Michael Barry has spent years conducting clinical reserach on the link between cancer and stress - namely the stress of negative emotions such as anger, bitterness and unforgiveness - and says that the holidays are an especially difficult time for many.

Through his years of in-depth medical, theological and scoiological research, as well as clinical expericne, Dr. Barry made a significant discovery that the immune system and forgiveness are very much connected. Negative or stressful feelings can actually prevent physical healing within the body. He discovered that the disease of unforgiveness can impact every organ, and it is an emotional disorder that can be prevented, treated and cured if a person is open to forgiveness.

I had the opportunity to speak with Dr. Barry about his research and how unforgiveness can lead to a stressful hoilday season.  We also talked about his new program "Release Now" which teaches and guides people through the steps of forgiveness.  To listen to the interview, click here or scroll down.

Rev. Dr. Michael Barry is Director of Pastoral Care at the Cancer Treatment Centers of America in Philadelphia, PA where he specializes in the connection between fatih and health. He has served in ministry for more than 20 years and has appeared on radio and television programs around the country.  His proram, Release! The Healing Power of Forgiveness teaches patients how to explore their feelings of unforgiveness toward others, themselves or even God.  He is the author of A Reason for Hope, A Season for Hope, The Art of Caregiving, and his latest The Forgiveness Project

Random Thoughts with Steve Russo

Steve Russo, author, commentator, radio/TV host, and professional drummer, has been speaking to teens and young adults for a number of years.  He was the co-host for Focus on the Family's Life on the Edge-Live! along with Susie Shellenberger.  He recently released another book targeted to young adults that is not your run-of-the-mill devotional, Random Thoughts.

This brand new devotional takes on a different approach. Instead of the "do this and don't do that" mentality, you'll find an in-your-face honesty and topics that are relevant to young people in our culture. Plus, you will also find that Steve is not the only one speaking you also have an actor, writer, professional skateboarder and many others.

This interview with Steve is probably one of the best you will find here and I hope that you will pick up a copy of his book, Random Thoughts. To listen click here or scroll down

To learn more about Steve and his ministry check out his websites:

• Steve Russo.com
• Real Answers
• U-Talk Radio

Alleged the Movie - A Fresh Look at the Scopes Monkey Trial

Frederick Foote went to Harvard, practiced Law for a short time in New York, and ultimately ended up in banking. His movie career began when he was one of the early investors for The Passion of the Christ and another movie Bella. The Skopes Monkey Trial was a story that he always wanted to see told from the moment he researched it, even going back to college, and it was then that he began working on the script and eventually assembled the team to bring Alleged to film. He considers it one of his great achievements that he has been able to draw more attention to the Scopes trial, and particularly William Jennings Bryan - A Christian man that fought the worst kind of racists bent on sterilizing tens thousands of men and women in the name of improving the human gene pool. Alleged has been an important milestone in Fred’s quest to drive attention to this cause.

I had the opportunity to talk with Fred about his new movie and about the issues of eugenics and evolution. To listen to the interview with Fred Foote, click here or scroll down.


Film SynopsisCharles Anderson (Nathan West) feels trapped writing for his deceased father’s meager newspaper and living in a tiny town (Dayton, TN) in steep decline. Local news is scarce in Dayton but in yonder Nashville the populist statesman and Christian fundamentalist William Jennings Bryan (Fred Thompson) stirs up the Tennessee legislature to pass an anti-evolution statute. At Robinson’s Drugstore a few local entrepreneurs, keen on a way to channel 20,000 or so folks into dying Dayton for a look-see, concoct a friendly scheme for the small town to host the “Trial of the Century” — they just need a teacher at the high school willing to claim that he taught evolution. John Scopes (Jamie Kolacki) obliges despite never having taught evolution to anybody that he can recall.


When the notorious agnostic Clarence Darrow (Brian Dennehy) agrees to defend Scopes and meet the Great Commoner in a battle to see which theory of mankind’s origin is the fittest (the Bible’s or Darwin’s), the entire world shows up and Dayton becomes the enter of the journalistic universe. Once in the midst of this staged event, however, Nathan is torn between his love for the more principled Rose Williams (Ashley Johnson), his fiancée, and the escalating moral compromises that he is asked to make as the eager protégé of H.L. Mencken of the Baltimore Sun (Colm Meaney), America’s most colorful and influential columnist. Complicating matters is Rose’s half-sister of mixed race, Abigail (Khori Faison), who local doctors feel is a candidate for sterilization to prevent her, on Darwinian grounds, from propagating her supposedly inferior genes.


Alleged is a true story of conflicts that boiled over in 1925 but that remain simmering with us to this day — evolution and creation, the role of science in social policy, and media sensationalism motivated by religious and political biases on all sides. When the truth is at stake, Charles discovers, some lies just have to be told.
 

Doing the Right Thing

What do you think would happen to the Church - indeed to America - if 5 million people simply did the right thing? I believe the Church and the country could be changed... perhaps radically! -- Chuck Colson


Introducing Doing the Right Thing, an eight week exploration of ethics.  Each week Chuck Colson and John Stonestreet will cover topics dealing with ethics in everyday life as well as government, business, education, family and much more.  Contributors like Ben Stein and Joni Eareckson Tada will join Chuck and John for these insightful and timely half-hours that will help believers "do the right thing" in every context.


Week 1 - Doing the Right Thing: Why does it matter? What does ethics mean to you? To listen - click here

Week 2 - The Crisis of Ethics: What's Gone Wrong? When is it okay to lie? To listen - click here


Week 3 -Absolute Truth: Can We Both Be Right? How do you know what's right? To listen - click here


Week 4 - Everyday Ethics: Can I Walk the Talk? What should be the church's role in teaching ethics? To listen - click here


Week 5 - The Issue of Life: What is a Human Being? When does human life begin? To listen - click here


Week 6 - Ethics in the Workplace: Is it an Oxymoron? What's the best story you've told to get a day off work? To listen - click here

Week 7 - Ethics in Public Life: Is it possible? On a scale of 1 to 10 - How much do you trust your elected officials? To listen - click here

Week 8 - Doing the Right Thing: Where Does it Start? If you could one thing to change the world, what would you do? To listen - click here


 

Forbidden

I was able to interview two of my favorite authors the other day about a new collaboration that has just been released.  Ted Dekker and Tosca Lee have teamed up to present a new trilogy entitled The Books of Mortals and the first book, Forbidden, has recently released.

Tosca has been a guest of mine before and has written two fantastic works: Havah: The Story of Eve and Demon: A Memoir.  Her latest book, Iscariot, a novel about the infamous betrayer of Christ, will release next year.


Ted has been a favorite of mine for many years.  The book that got me hooked on him was Thr3e, a thriller that has twists and turns that keeps you guessing and wanting more.  His Circle Series (Black, Red, White and Green) is one that I highly recommend.  He is known for this thrillers that combine adrenaline-laced plots with incredible confrontations between good and evil.


Forbidden, the first book in the The Books of Mortals trilogy, is set in the distant future, in world ruled by The Order.  The Order controls humanity by genetically removing all emotions but fear.  That is until a young man is given a secret message and a vial of blood that changes everything and everyone involved.  A fast paced story involving emotion and reasoning that will cause discussion and debate.

Connect with Ted on Facebook and Twitter
Connect with Tosca on Facebook and Twitter


Click to listen to the interviews with Ted and Tosca or scroll down.


C

Strength... Honor... Courage

Os Hillman - Change Agents

I've been doing a lot of reading lately on the topic of change.  Don't know exactly what that means right now but I'm guessing that some changes are going to take place soon and God is getting me ready for it.  The first book I read was written by long-time friend Phil Cooke entitled Jolt (check out the blog post).  The latest book was written by new friend, Os Hillman entitled Change Agent.

This book by Os is not exactly on change but on being a change agent.  Os writes about the stages a change agent goes through in preparation and the 7 mountain top cultural issues that a change agent needs to affect.  To listen to the interview click here or scroll down.

Change Agent Book 1 minute promo from Os Hillman on Vimeo.

Pulpit Freedom Sunday

Recently I had the chance to talk with Dr. Jim Garlow, senior pastor of Skyline Church in San Diego, California.  We talked about the upcoming Pulpit Freedom Sunday, October 2.  I asked him about the history of the IRS code that forbids pastors from recommending candidates or legislation from the pulpit and what we can do now.  Dr. Garlow's response can be found here or you can scroll down.


Click here to learn more about Pulpit Freedom Sunday.


Speak Up Movement Promo from Josh Garlow on Vimeo.

The Change Revolution

Phil Cooke has recently released a new book entitled, Jolt! Get the Jump on a World That's Constantly Changing.  In it Phil helps you discover how you can navigate today's culture of disruption and actually use it to your advantage.


The world is changing at the speed of light and mastering this change can revolutionize your business, ministry and your life.  Phil gives you 25 "jolts" that can help you leverage a new direction, maximize your potential, overcome insecurities and create a future and a legacy.


I had the chance to talk with Phil about his book plus, as we always do, we talked the current state of Hollywood and some movies that are coming out.  To listen click here or scroll down

Jersusalm Countdown

With the Middle East in turmoil, Israel's preeminent ally is thrust into an impending war, America is now the target as the battle for Jerusalem begins.  This is a brief synopsis for the newest film from Pure Flix Entertainment, Jerusalem Countdown.


Based on the best selling book by Dr. James Hagee, Jerusalem Countdown highlights the reality of an inevitable conflict between Israel and Islam.  The story of the movie is about nuclear weapons being smuggled into America, and senior F.B.I. agent Shane Daughtry (played by David A.R. White) is faced with the impossible task of finding them before they are detonated.


The clock is ticking and the only people who can help are: a washed up arms dealer (Lee Majors), a converted Israeli Mossad agent (Stacey Keach) and a by-the-book CIA deputy director (Randy Travis).  A film that will have you at the edge of your seat is a sure must see!

This movie also includes the talent of Grammy nominated/Dove award winning singer and now actress, Jaci Velasquez.  I had the opportunity to talk with Jaci on the phone about her acting career and what drew her to this movie. We also talked about her roles as wife, mother and now radio announcer.  To listen to the interview, click here or scroll down.

Days of Hope and Rescue

Last year WRAF partnered with Cross International and our listeners rescued over 700 orphans off the streets of Mozambique.  This year we are partnering with them again and my goal is to see 1,000 orphans rescued.  Just a one time gift of $68 will rescue one of these precious little ones and provide housing, food, clothing, medicine, school supplies, education and much more. 

Joining us again this year will be Jack Eason who recently traveled to Mozambique to see what was being accomplished.  He was recently on The Morning Show and we talked about a little about that trip and what $68 can accomplish.  To listen click here or scroll down.


Please consider joining us at Toccoa Falls Radio Wednesday, August 3rd and Thursday, August 4th as we join with Cross International and rescue children off the streets of Mozambique!

Faith and America's Revolution

Rod Gragg, author of the new book By the Hand of Providence: How Faith Shaped the American Revolution, was my guest recently, and we discussed the almost forgotten history America's faith-based beginning.

This well researched work shares the dramatic struggle for freedom by everyday Americans in the Revolutionary War. It especially focuses on our first president, George Washington, the leadership of the Continental Congress, and the little known influence of colonial America's pastors.



To listen to the interview click here or scroll down.

Reconciliation

Has we have just celebrated Father's Day I wanted to share with you a brand new movie to DVD that deals with the sometimes complex relationships between a father and a son.  Reconciliation is a movie that not only deals with father-son issues but also looks at the issue of homosexuality.  Nancy Heche, mother to Hollywood actress Ann Heche and author of the book The Truth Comes Out has said, "This superb film will probably break your hear. It has a message that could change your life." 

This groundbreaking, provocative story about a son struggling to reconcile with his estranged, gay father as they overcome the heartbreaking consequences of their past.  I had the chance to speak with writer and director of this movie, Chad Arendt.  To listen to the interview please click here or scroll down.


Movie Synopsis
Grant Taylor has been troubled by intense childhood memories ever since his wife, Sara, gave him the exciting news..."You're going to be a dad!"  As fatherhood nears, Grant privately wrestles with his embarrassment and anger toward his own father.  His memories come to a head when Sara receives a call informing them that Grant's dad, Jeff, is terminally ill and his last wish is to see his son.  With Sara's encouragement, Grant reluctantly goes to see the man he disowned at his10th birthday party, when he found out his father was gay.  At the hospice, father and son confront the past as they come face to face for the first time in 16 years.  Will Grant forgive his father for abandoning their family?  Will Jeff forgive Grant for the hateful words he said years ago?  What will it take to reconcile?

Doing the Right Thing

Our culture is undergoing an ethical and moral breakdown of seismic proportions, and the implications reverberate through our families, workplaces, communities and all of society. How did we get into this mess, and how and where do we begin to examine ethical and character issues in order to once again begin to live virtuous lives? How can we, as a society, do what’s right even in the face of powerful temptations and incentives to do what’s wrong?

I had the opportunity to speak with Chuck Colson about a new small group study on ethics entitled, Doing the Right Thing.  Chuck has been on a nationwide tour teaching groups about the need for the return to biblical ethics.  To listen to the interview please click here or scroll down.

The tour stops in Atlanta and you can join Chuck Colson, Ken Boa, Gerard Long, Jenny Noyes, Scott Rae, John Stonestreet and others in a live exploration of the crisis of ethics, and the steps we must take in our homes, churches, schools and society to rebuild an ethical culture and virtuous society. It will take place on Friday June 24, 8am - Noon at The 755 Club at Turner Field in Atlanta. Cost is $25 (pastors and students free). To register, visit www.alphausa.org/ethics.

This tour previews a six-part curriculum produced by the Chuck Colson Center for Christian Worldview, “Doing the Right Thing: A Six-Part Exploration of Ethics.” This DVD-based series and the live tour events explore topics such as How did we get into this mess?; Is there truth, a moral law we can all know?; If we know what is right, can we do it?; What does it mean to be human?; Ethics in public life; and Ethics in the marketplace.

Event participants will preview extended clips from the video series, hear presentations from leading experts on the topics, and have the opportunity to pre-order the DVD series at a special advance rate in order to begin with others conversations on ethics, morality, virtue, character, truth and issues of right and wrong.  To learn more about the curriculum please click here.

Co-sponsors for the event include BreakPoint / Chuck Colson Center for ChristianWorldview, Alpha USA and Reflections Ministries.

Doyle Dykes and The Lights of Marfa

Doyle Dykes has been playing the guitar for over 45 years and has shared the stage with music legends like: Vince Gill, Chet Atkins, Emmy Lou Harris, Brad Praisley and many others.  Endorsed by Taylor Guitars, Dykes has played to audiences around the globe including regular appearances at the Grand Ole Opry.

Now this legendary guitar player offers readers a collection of stories about music, guitars, travels and the miracles of life and faith in his first book, The Lights of Marfa: One of the World's Great Guitar player's Amazing Encounters with God.

Dykes uses the images of Marfa, Texas, a lonely West Texas outpost renowned for mysterious and inexplicable lights which are often ignored by locals buy of interest to faraway visitors, as a metaphor for the mysterious works of the divine.

You can hear my complete interview with Doyle by clicking here or scrolling down.

The Enounter

Pure Flix Entertainment has become one of the top producers of family-friendly, faith-based movies.  They recently released another good movie for the family entitled The Enounter.  Here's a brief synopsis of the movie:

Stranded in the middle of nowhere, five strangers take refuge in a deserted roadside diner.  An arrogant businessman, a lonely woman, an estranged couple, and a teen runaway appear to have nothing in common, but the Christ-like proprietor of the diner seems strangely all-knowing and offers more than temporal nourishment.

The film stars Bruce Marchiano (Jesus in The Visual Bible series), Christian recording artist Jaci Velasquez, Janie Nieto, Danah Davis, and 6-time WCW World Heavyweight Wrestling Champion, Steve "Sting" Borden.

I had the chance to talk with Bruce Marchiano about this film and what God has been doing in his life as a member of the entertainment industry.  To listen to the interview click here or scroll down.

Laura Story and "Blessings"

Recording artist and fellow Atlantean Laura Story called in on the Morning Show to catch up on what's going on in her life, and to talk about the back story to her latest single, "Blessings."  To listen click here or scroll down.

THERE BE DRAGONS

Everyone, take a look at this movie trailer for THERE BE DRAGONS. It's a powerful film about love and redemption, directed by Roland Joffe (The Mission, The Killing Fields). It opens in theaters May 6 and I'll be going to see this powerful film and I hope you will see it too.



Roland Joffe, the director who brought us the THE MISSION has returned to his roots with the epic movie THERE BE DRAGONS, a powerful story of war, tragedy, love and redemption. Set during the turmoil of the Spanish Civil War (early 1900's), Dragons tells the story of two childhood friends who became separated during the political conflict to find themselves on opposite sides as war erupts. One chooses the path of peace and becomes a priest while the other chooses the life of a soldier driven by jealousy and revenge. Each will struggle to find the power of forgiveness over the forces that tore their lives and friendship apart.

Lynette Eason - The Women of Justice

Author and speaker Lynette Eason talks about her ministry with the deaf plus how she got into the writing business.  Lynette grew up in Greenville, SC. Her home church, Northgate Baptist, had a tremendous influence on her during her early years. She credits Christian parents and dedicated Sunday School teachers for her acceptance of Christ at the tender age of eight. Even as a young girl, she knew she wanted her life to reflect the love of Jesus.

Lynette attended The University of South Carolina in Columbia, SC, then moved to Spartanburg, SC to attend Converse College where she obtained her Masters degree in Education. A couple of years later, she met the boy next door, Jack Eason - and married him. Jack works is her web and marketing guy. Lynette and Jack have two children. They are members of New Life Baptist Fellowship Church where Jack leads the worship and Lynette does whatever she's asked to do like take pictures for the church directory. She has a new book coming out in May - the third book in her Women of Justice series.  To learn more about Lynette's books click here.  If you are on Facebook you can connect with Lynette there by going here.


To listen to the interview scroll down or click here.

The Day Satan Called

Bill Scott was confronted with an evil that most people never hear.  A young girl called the station Bill was working at and said that she would be sacrificed on Halloween night and then her voice changed and what came out was an evil that shook Bill to his core.  Nearly 21 years later and Bill is just now talking about it.  His new book, The Day Satan Called, will be released later this year, and it describes the 18 months that followed the phone call that changed his life.


I've know Bill for nearly 20 years and I thought I knew everything about him.  When I heard about his new book and was able to read the first chapter I realized that Bill had confronted evil head-on.  I was able to talk with Bill about this and his new book a few weeks ago. You can listen to the entire interview by clicking here or scrolling down.

The first chapter of The Day Satan Called is available for free by clicking here.  You can pre-order the book at Amazon.

Bonhoeffer: Pastor, Martry, Prophet, Spy

Since early last year I've been enamored with Diretrich Bonhoeffer, the German pastor who played a part in the assassination attempt on Adolf Hitler, and a member of the Confessing Church.  I came across Eric Metaxas' brilliant biography of Bonhoeffer and immediatly began to read it.  What an extraordinary life Bonhoeffer led.  Normally a quiet man, he spoke with such power and conviction regarding the national church in Germany and the Nazis' treatment of Jews.  Bonhoeffer has fast become one of my heros.

I had the chance to speak with Eric Metaxas about his book and his thoughts regarding Bonhoeffer.  You can hear the complete interview by clicking here or scrolling down.  I also urge you to pick up his book and learn as much as you can about Bonhoeffer.  You will be suprised at the similarities there are between Bonhoeffer's day and our current stiuations.

Dr. Alex McFarland on the Morning Show

Alex McFarland - www.alexmcfarland.com

One of the privileges of being a radio personality is the number of people you meet and then become good friends.  Dr. Alex McFarland, former president of Southern Evangelical Seminary and radio host, author and speaker, is one of those people.  I had the chance to meet Alex for the first time last year at an apologetics conference in Charlotte and I have to say he is one of the most interesting speakers I've met.

Recently, Alex joined me on The Morning Show to talk about some current issues that has raised the question from many skeptics, "If God is a loving God then why did he allow the tsunami and earthquake to happen in Japan."  We also talked about the church's role in society.  It was a great conversation and you can listen to it by clicking here or scrolling down.

Alex will be a regular contributor to The Morning Show and you will be reading some of his articles on this blog.

Chick-fil-A Leadercast - Dave Ramsey



This year's Leadercast is bringing together some of the most popular speakers from diverse backgrounds.  Dave Ramsey is a best-selling author and nationally syndicated radio personality, helping millions of people get out of debt.  After graduating from the University of Tennessee with a bachelor's degree, Dave quickly went into business for himself and found great success in the real estate market - then the bottom dropped.  Dave and his family went from having it made to losing it all.  He teaches from a life of hard lessons.

Dave's personal story of achieving financial responsibility and helping others live healthy lifestyles as it relates to finances and leadership is the cornerstone of the Lampo Group and the Dave Ramsey Show.  He will bring energy to the Chick-fil-A Leadercast while teaching on service in life and in business.



Click here to register for the Chick-fil-A Leadercast at Toccoa Falls College

Chick-fil-A Leadercast - Robin Roberts

The Chick-fil-A Leadercast will be the leadership event of 2011!  This year speakers from around the country will bring their first hand knowledge of leadership to you and your team.  For the next few weeks leading up to the Leadercast I will highlight one of the speakers coming to the event.  This week it's Robin Roberts.

Robin Roberts is anchor of ABC's Emmy-award winning morning program, Good Morning America.  Her personal history is full of stories overcoming obstacles in the pursuit of excellence.  From her life in Mississippi, to a college basketball star, to a host on ESPN, and now with GMA, leading them to three consecutive Emmy Awards, nothing has come easy but her faith and deep rooted belief in staying true to one's self Robin Roberts has become a symbol of success for everyone.

Robin will be speaking on:

• How to achieve your goals through dreams, focus and determination
• Leading and accomplishing your goals without making excuses
• Venturing outside your comfort zone
• Focusing on the solution, not the problem

A cancer survivor, Robin Roberts will be an inspiration to you and will challenge you to reach for your dreams.  Her latest book, From the Heart: Eight Rules to Live By,

To learn how you can take part in the Chick-fil-A Leadercast at Toccoa Falls College, click here and register today!

Two Minute Warning - China Envy

Because of China’s rising economic status, some Americans are starting to envy them. Chuck Colson explains that such envy is misplaced, because even China acknowledges that it needs what made the West successful: Christianity. Watch Two Minute Warning and find out more.

The Idolatry of Our Personal Opinions : Kirstin Vander Giessen-Reitsma

"One impression I have of the postmodern belief system, which looks ironically like a doctrine, is that all opinions are equally valid. Just within the past few days, I’ve heard two eerily similar stories from college-level teachers: a student approaches the teacher to disagree with the grade given on a paper. The teacher defends the grade as valid. The student assumes that the root cause of the undesirable grade is a difference of opinion and “concedes” that they’ll have to “agree to disagree.” The teacher is stunned at the student’s audacity, for the grade is not based on difference of opinion, but on lack of comprehension as determined by the teacher’s own authority and expertise in the field." - Kirstin Vander Giessen-Reitsma

The Idolatry of Our Personal Opinions : Kirstin Vander Giessen-Reitsma

Nobody Told Me

Teens have their whole lives ahead of them, but making poor choices can undermine their hopes for a bright future. Too many young adults look back on decisions they made in the heat of the moment and regret the path they chose - they wish someone had told them how premarital sex could negatively impact their future relationships. Nobody Told Me is a book to help teens make the right choice when it comes to sex, based on actual questions Pam Stenzel has received from real-life teens.

Pam and I talked about her new book and the culture in which teens are now in (click here). The media and the government are not helping matters when it comes to sex. Here's some statistics that should bother you:

• Almost two-thirds of teenagers who have had sexual intercourse wish they'd waited. Fifty-five percent of boys and 72 percent of girls said they wish they had waited longer (source)
• STDs are the most common disease in America next to the common cold and flu ("Is Sex Safe?", 2001)
• One in three girls in the United States is estimated to get pregnant at least once before the age 20 ("The Real Cost of Teen Pregnancy", Washington DC. National Campaign to Prevent Teen Pregnancy, Sept. 2006)
• Today there are around 30 known STDs and more than 65 million people in America are already infected by an incurable one (source).
• Hormonal birth control dramatically increases your rick of contracting an STD (source)
  

Pam Stenzel is the founder of Enlighten Communications, an organization that empowers parents, youth leaders and educators to lead informed discussions on sexual abstinence and its benefits. She speaks to over 500,000 teens each year; many of her invitations come from teens themselves. She has written a curriculum, Sex Has a Price Tag, that has won numerous awards and has been translated into 11 languages.