Jesus ascended. What now? (Luke 24:50-53)

Ask A Pastor Ep. 5: Can God Really Forgive That? And Why Do I Keep Falling Into the Same Sin?

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/216325/fan_mail/new] In this week’s episode of Ask A Pastor, Pastor Todd Barham tackles one of the most honest and personal questions many believers wrestle with: “Can God really forgive that… and why do I keep falling into the same sin?” We’ve all been there—asking for forgiveness, only to find ourselves back in the same struggle. And over time, that cycle can lead to shame, doubt, and the quiet question: Did God really forgive me? This episode confronts that tension head-on with truth, clarity, and hope. Pastor Todd unpacks the powerful reality that God’s forgiveness isn’t based on our performance—it flows from His grace. There is no sin greater than what Jesus has already paid for. Forgiveness isn’t partial or temporary—it’s complete, restoring us fully into relationship with God. The real challenge isn’t getting God to forgive—it’s learning to believe that He already has. But what about the ongoing struggle? This episode dives into the truth that while forgiveness is instant, transformation is a process. Struggling doesn’t mean you’ve failed—it means you’re in a fight. God is not absent in your struggle; He’s actively forming you through it. What you’re experiencing isn’t disqualification—it’s part of sanctification. Pastor Todd also gives practical, biblical steps to help break the cycle of repeated sin—without shame. From owning your struggle honestly, to identifying patterns, building boundaries, leaning on the Holy Spirit, and inviting accountability—this conversation is both deeply spiritual and incredibly practical. This episode is a reminder that: * Your struggle doesn’t cancel God’s grace * Conviction is a sign He’s working, not leaving * And freedom isn’t found in never falling—but in never staying down If you’ve ever felt stuck, discouraged, or unsure where you stand with God, this conversation will meet you right where you are—and point you back to the truth that real freedom is possible. Take a step today: confess honestly, take action, tell someone, and keep coming back to Jesus. Support the show [http://hopechurchcleburne.com/giving/]

The Touch That Changed Everything (Luke 5:12-16)

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/216325/fan_mail/new] We may not use the word “leper” anymore—but our world still labels people. Divorced. Addicted. Anxious. Angry. Too far gone. And when those labels stick, distance follows. Silence. Avoidance. Separation. But in Luke 5, we see something radically different: Jesus doesn’t step back from brokenness—He steps toward it. In this powerful message, “The Touch That Changed Everything,” we explore the story of a man marked by disease and rejection… and the Savior who chose not just to heal him, but to touch him. This sermon unpacks what real faith looks like, how Jesus breaks barriers we’re afraid to cross, and why true transformation can’t stay hidden. You’ll be challenged to consider: * Where you might be holding back from God, wondering if He’s willing to move in your life * Who you’ve kept at a distance that God may be calling you to move toward * And how your story of healing can become a testimony of His power This message is a reminder that you don’t have to clean yourself up before coming to Jesus—you come as you are, and He does the transforming. Because when Jesus touches your life… everything changes. Support the show [http://hopechurchcleburne.com/giving/]

How Do I Know God’s Will For My Life… And What Do I Do When I Feel Stuck? | Ask A Pastor Ep. 4

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/216325/fan_mail/new] How do you actually know God’s will for your life—and what do you do when you feel completely stuck? In Episode 4 of Ask A Pastor, we tackle one of the most honest and relatable questions people wrestle with: not wanting God’s will, but knowing it. From big life decisions like career and relationships to the everyday question of “what’s next?”, this conversation gets real about the tension of feeling unsure, stuck, or even like God is silent. The truth? God’s will isn’t a hidden blueprint you’re trying to figure out—it’s a relationship He’s inviting you to walk in. In this episode, we break down what God’s will is (and isn’t), and give you a clear, practical framework for how God actually guides your life through Scripture, prayer, wise counsel, and His peace. You’ll also learn why God reveals His will step by step—not all at once—and how obedience often comes before clarity. If you’ve been feeling stuck, this episode will help you reframe that season. Being stuck isn’t failure—it may be God forming something deeper in you. We’ll walk through how to pause, check your heart, return to listening, and take small, faith-filled steps forward—even when you don’t have all the answers. Plus, we’ll give you a simple daily rhythm you can start today to help you stay connected to God and confident in your next step. You’re not stuck because God is absent. He may be closer than you think. Lean in, listen close, and take your next step. Support the show [http://hopechurchcleburne.com/giving/]

Jesus ascended. What now? (Luke 24:50-53)

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/216325/fan_mail/new] Why do you come to church? Is it tradition… community… a good cup of coffee… or something deeper? In this episode of the Hope Church Podcast, we explore a powerful question that goes beyond routine and gets to the heart of our faith. Walking through Luke 24 and the ascension of Jesus, this message unpacks why what happened after the resurrection matters just as much as the cross itself. You’ll discover four key truths: * Jesus’ work is finished — the sacrifice has already been made, once and for all. * Our work has begun — we’ve been given a mission: to share the Good News with the world. * We’re not doing it alone — the Holy Spirit empowers and equips us every step of the way. * There should be evidence — a Spirit-filled life produces real, visible fruit. This message is both encouraging and challenging, reminding us that church isn’t just a place we go—it’s a launching point for how we live. Whether you’ve been following Jesus for years or you’re still figuring it out, this episode will help you understand your purpose and how to walk it out with confidence. The question is simple: Are you just attending… or are you stepping into the mission God has given you? Listen in and be encouraged to live with purpose, power, and the presence of the Holy Spirit. Support the show [http://hopechurchcleburne.com/giving/]

Ask A Pastor Podcast Ep 3: If God Is Good, Why Does He Allow Suffering?

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/216325/fan_mail/new] If God is good… why does life hurt so much? In this episode of Ask A Pastor, we take on one of the most honest—and hardest—questions people ask: Why does God allow suffering? Because this isn’t just a theological debate… It’s deeply personal. It’s about loss, betrayal, sickness, injustice, and the prayers that seem to go unanswered. We don’t offer shallow answers. Instead, we wrestle with this question the way the Bible does—openly, honestly, and with hope. You’ll hear: * Why even Scripture makes space for our hardest questions * How to think about suffering in a world where God is both good and powerful * What the Bible actually teaches about pain, free will, and a broken world * How God meets us in our suffering—not from a distance * Why the cross stands as the ultimate proof that God is both loving and involved If you’ve ever wondered whether you can still trust God while you’re hurting, this conversation is for you. Because while we may not understand everything we’re walking through… we can trust the One who walks with us. Key takeaway: If God can turn the cross into redemption, He can redeem your pain, too. Support the show [http://hopechurchcleburne.com/giving/]