Don’t Quit: Staying Strong in the Race of Faith*

The Foundation of Wise Leadership

Godly leadership begins with pursuing and applying God's wisdom. Link to Transcript: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2285086/episodes/19309020 [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2285086/episodes/19309020] Wisdom is more than knowledge. Knowledge gathers information, but wisdom helps us apply God's truth to everyday decisions and challenges. Drawing from Proverbs 1-2 and the life of Solomon, Pastor Chris shows why wise leaders recognize their need for wisdom, live in the fear of the Lord, and continually pursue God's guidance. Along the way, he explains the difference between knowledge and wisdom, shares how God guided major decisions in his own life, and reminds us that every decision impacts the people around us. The message challenges believers to seek God's direction rather than relying on their own understanding. Whether you lead in your home, workplace, church, or community, this message will encourage you to grow in wisdom, make godly decisions, and put biblical truth into practice. Ultimately, true wisdom points us to Jesus Christ, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. Key Points: 1.  Wise Leaders Recognize Their Need for Wisdom (Proverbs 1:1-6) – Solomon understood that effective leadership begins by acknowledging our need for God's wisdom. Wise people seek God's guidance rather than trusting solely in their own knowledge, experience, or desires.  2.  Wise Leaders Live in the Fear of the Lord (Proverbs 1:7; Psalm 111:10) – The fear of the Lord is the foundation of wisdom. This is not a fear of punishment but a reverent respect for God that produces obedience, humility, and a desire to honor Him.  3.  Wise Leaders Continually Pursue and Apply God's Wisdom (Proverbs 2:1-6; James 1:5) – Wisdom requires intentional effort. God calls us to listen, seek, ask, search, and apply His truth so that our lives reflect His wisdom in everyday decisions.  Personal Stories from Pastor Chris: Pastor Chris shared how God guided his family when they moved to Chisholm and searched for a home. Although the house they initially wanted sold before they could buy it, God led them to a different home that later qualified for foster care. Through that opportunity they were able to help children and families in need and eventually adopt a child, demonstrating how God's wisdom often becomes clear when we look back and see His hand at work. Notable Quotes: • "Wisdom from God is the ability to rightly apply that knowledge." • "Every decision affects other people." • "It's so much better to learn from other people's mistakes than to make your own." Actionable Takeaways: • Ask God for wisdom before making important decisions. • Seek God's guidance rather than relying solely on your own understanding. • Develop a deeper reverence for God and His authority over your life. • Put God's truth into practice rather than simply accumulating knowledge. Scripture References: 1 Corinthians 1:23-30; Proverbs 1:1-7; 1 Kings 3:9-12; James 3:13; Proverbs 14:12; 1 Corinthians 8:2; Proverbs 9:10; Psalm 111:10; Ecclesiastes 12:13; 2 Samuel 5:19; Proverbs 2:1-6; Proverbs 2:6; James 1:5; Colossians 2:2-3; James 1:22. Keywords: Wisdom, Proverbs, Leadership, Solomon, Fear of the Lord, Christian Living, Decision Making, Spiritual Growth, Jesus Christ, Biblical Wisdom Challenge: Ask God for wisdom, seek His direction daily, and put His truth into practice so your life reflects His wisdom and leadership. Listen & Subscribe: wellfaith.buzzsprout.com 26.0607de Chris Teien, Pastor of Rockwell Church in Virginia, Minnesota, shares biblical preaching and practical encouragement through the WELL Faith Sermon Audio Podcast, along with occasional guest speakers. New messages are shared every week to encourage you in your faith and help you apply God's Word to your life. Learn more at ChrisTeien.com and Rockwell.church

Don’t Quit: Staying Strong in the Race of Faith*

Life is filled with challenges that tempt us to give up. Hebrews 12:1–4 calls us to stay strong in faith by fixing our eyes on Jesus. In this message, Pastor Chris Teien shares encouragement to let go of distractions, endure hardship, and keep moving forward with hope and courage.  Link: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2285086/episodes/16335680 [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2285086/episodes/16335680] Key Points: 1. You are being watched – Your faith inspires others, just as the heroes of Hebrews 11 encourage us today. 2. Let go of what holds you back – Lay aside sin, pride, and even good things that can weigh you down. 3. Stay strong in Christ – The race of faith begins with salvation and continues with daily focus on Jesus. 4. Keep your eyes on the Champion – Jesus endured the cross for the joy set before Him and now strengthens us to endure. Personal Stories from Pastor Chris:  Pastor Chris shares about an icy day with a church truck hood flying open, a vivid reminder that the examples of others can give us courage in unexpected struggles. He also talks about everyday weights like sports, possessions, or personal pursuits that can distract us from God’s call. Notable Quotes:  “Don’t quit, because Jesus has already endured the cross for you.”  “Even good things become hindrances when they take the place of God’s best.”  “Your faith is not just about you—it encourages others who are watching.” Actionable Takeaways: * Reflect: Am I trying to please people or to honor Christ? * Apply: Identify one weight or distraction you need to set aside this week. * Grow: Fix your eyes on Jesus daily through prayer and Scripture. * Act: Share your story to encourage someone else’s faith. Scripture References:  Hebrews 12:1–4, John 3:16, John 3:36, Romans 6:23, 1 John 2:16, 1 John 5:11–13 Keywords: faith, endurance, don’t quit, Hebrews 12, perseverance, focus on Jesus, Christian strength, staying strong Challenge:  Stay strong in the race of faith. Don’t quit. Fix your eyes on Jesus and keep moving forward with endurance and hope. 17m0826de Chris Teien, Pastor of Rockwell Church in Virginia, Minnesota, shares biblical preaching and practical encouragement through the WELL Faith Sermon Audio Podcast, along with occasional guest speakers. New messages are shared every week to encourage you in your faith and help you apply God's Word to your life. Learn more at ChrisTeien.com and Rockwell.church

When the Holy Spirit Empowers Ordinary People

What are you spending your life pursuing? Are you merely surviving, or are you living for something greater? David’s mighty men were ordinary people who became courageous warriors through God’s power and faithfulness. In this message, Pastor Chris Teien explores the connection between David’s mighty men and the empowering work of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost. Through 2 Samuel 23 and Acts 2, believers are challenged to courageously follow Christ with faithfulness, sacrifice, and boldness in a world that often pressures people to stay silent. Link: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2285086/episodes/19231900 [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2285086/episodes/19231900] Key Points: #1 Courage to STAND (2 Samuel 23:8-12) David's mighty men stood firm when others ran away because they trusted God to give victory. God still uses ordinary people today who are willing to stand faithfully in difficult moments. The Holy Spirit empowers believers with courage and boldness to live for Christ.  * a. God uses ordinary people (1 Samuel 22:1-2) * b. The Holy Spirit gives boldness (Acts 2:1-4) * c. Ordinary believers can live courageously (Acts 4:13) #2 Faithfulness to the MISSION (2 Samuel 23:13-15) The Christian life requires devotion and perseverance. Pastor Chris reminds listeners that following Jesus may involve sacrifice, hardship, and pressure, but faithful believers continue serving because the mission matters more than comfort.  * a. Real devotion costs something (Luke 9:23) * b. Spirit-filled believers endure hardship (2 Timothy 2:3-4) * c. Faithfulness continues under pressure (Acts 5:41) #3 Worship Through SACRIFICE (2 Samuel 23:16-17) David poured out the water from Bethlehem as an offering to the Lord because he recognized the costly devotion of his mighty men. This act points forward to Jesus Christ, who poured out His own life for our salvation. Believers are called to pour out their lives in worship, service, and obedience to God.  * a. David honored their costly devotion * b. God pours out His Spirit (Acts 2:17) * c. Believers pour out their lives for Christ (Philippians 2:17) * d. Jesus showed the greatest sacrifice (John 15:13) Personal Stories from Pastor Chris: Pastor Chris reflects on Memorial Day and the sacrifices made by soldiers who gave their lives serving others. He compares their loyalty and courage to the devotion seen in David’s mighty men and challenges believers to live courageously for the Kingdom of God.  Notable Quotes:  “Are you spending your life just surviving, or are you spending your life for something greater?” “Sometimes when you’re faithful to show up, then God shows up.” “The question isn’t are you extraordinary. The question is, am I willing to let God use my life?” Actionable Takeaways: *  Ask God for courage to stand faithfully when pressure comes.  *  Spend intentional time in prayer and God’s Word this week.  *  Look for opportunities to serve others and share Christ boldly.  *  Evaluate whether your life is centered on comfort or on God’s mission.  *  Surrender your time, gifts, and resources to the Lord as worship.  Scripture References: 2 Samuel 23:8-17, 1 Samuel 22:1-2, 1 Chronicles 12:18, Acts 2:1-4, 17, Acts 4:13, Acts 5:41, Luke 9:23, 1 Corinthians 1:27, 2 Timothy 2:3-4, Philippians 2:17, John 15:13 Keywords: Pentecost, Holy Spirit, David’s Mighty Men, courage, sacrifice, Christian living, spiritual boldness, discipleship, faithfulness, worship Challenge: This week, stop merely surviving and ask God to help you courageously spend your life for something greater through the power of the Holy Spirit. 26.0524de Spend Your Life for Something Greater Chris Teien, Pastor of Rockwell Church in Virginia, Minnesota, shares biblical preaching and practical encouragement through the WELL Faith Sermon Audio Podcast, along with occasional guest speakers. New messages are shared every week to encourage you in your faith and help you apply God's Word to your life. Learn more at ChrisTeien.com and Rockwell.church

Trusting God with What Comes Next

In this message from Genesis 28 and 32, Pastor Chris Teien looks at Jacob’s uncertain journey and reminds listeners that God is present even when the future feels unclear. Whether facing graduation, career changes, family decisions, fear, or regret, we can trust God to guide, shape, and provide for us one step at a time.  Links: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2285086/episodes/19191831 [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2285086/episodes/19191831] Key Points:  God transforms your uncertainty with His presence - Genesis 28:10-15  God receives your response of faith - Genesis 28:16-22  God uses every season for His purpose - Romans 8:28  God shapes your character through the journey - Genesis 32:24-28  God teaches you to depend on Him - Philippians 1:6 Personal Stories from Pastor Chris:  Pastor Chris reflects on graduating before modern technology, learning unexpected skills through different jobs and volunteer opportunities, and how God uses ordinary seasons to prepare us for what comes next. Notable Quotes:  “Nobody knows what comes next, but we can trust that God is going to get us through.”  “God does not always tell you every detail. He guides you down a path.”  “It does not mean everything will be easy, but it does mean God will get you through.”  Actionable Takeaways:  Trust God with the next step, even when you cannot see the whole path.  Stay faithful in ordinary opportunities, because God may be preparing you through them.  Do not compromise spiritually while waiting for God’s plan.  Draw close to God through prayer, Scripture, worship, and obedience. Scripture References:  Genesis 28:10-22 - Jacob’s dream at Bethel  Genesis 32:24-28 - Jacob wrestles and receives a new name  Proverbs 3:5-6 - Trust the Lord with all your heart  John 1:51 - Jesus as the connection between heaven and earth  James 4:8 - Come close to God  Ecclesiastes 5:4-5 - Keep your vows to God  Psalm 15:1, 4 - Keep promises even when it hurts  Romans 8:28 - God works all things together for good  Philippians 1:6 - God finishes the work He begins Keywords:  trusting God, Jacob, Genesis 28, Genesis 32, God’s guidance, graduation sermon, uncertainty, faith, spiritual growth, Well Faith Podcast Challenge:  Ask God to help you trust Him with what comes next, then take the next faithful step He puts in front of you. Listen & Subscribe: wellfaith.buzzsprout.com  #RockwellChurch218 26.0517de Chris Teien, Pastor of Rockwell Church in Virginia, Minnesota, shares biblical preaching and practical encouragement through the WELL Faith Sermon Audio Podcast, along with occasional guest speakers. New messages are shared every week to encourage you in your faith and help you apply God's Word to your life. Learn more at ChrisTeien.com and Rockwell.church

Trusting God Through Seasons of Waiting

Pain, disappointment, and seasons of waiting can either push us away from God or draw us closer to Him. Pastor Chris Teien walks through the story of Hannah in 1 Samuel 1-2 and explores how God works through seasons of waiting, prayer, and surrender to accomplish His greater purposes. Through Hannah’s faithfulness, God raised up Samuel, a prophet who would help lead Israel during a critical moment in history. This message challenges listeners to trust God with their burdens, their families, and their future.  Link: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2285086/episodes/19157276 [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2285086/episodes/19157276] Key Points: 1. Kingdom influence begins with surrendered prayer - Hannah brought her deep pain honestly before God and trusted Him with her future. (1 Samuel 1:9-11) 2. Kingdom faith recognizes God’s ownership - Children, resources, and opportunities are gifts from God entrusted to us for His glory. (1 Samuel 1:27-28) 3. Kingdom investment requires faithful influence - Faithfulness in parenting, mentoring, and spiritual influence can impact future generations. (1 Samuel 2:18-21) 4. Kingdom trust leaves the future in God’s hands - God worked through Hannah’s obedience and Samuel’s life to shape the future of Israel. (1 Samuel 2:20-21) Personal Stories from Pastor Chris: Pastor Chris shares how older pastors encouraged and mentored him before planting a church and entering full-time ministry. He reflects on the importance of learning through relationships, faithful examples, and serving alongside godly leaders. Notable Quotes: * “Sometimes our pain can push us away from God, but Hannah allowed her pain to drive her to God.” * “Prayer says, ‘God, I can’t do this without You.’” * “Sometimes our children catch our faith more than they are taught our faith.” * “God can do great things through ordinary faithfulness.” Actionable Takeaways: * Bring your struggles honestly before God in prayer. * View your children and influence as opportunities to build God’s kingdom. * Stay faithful even when you do not immediately see results. * Invest intentionally in the next generation through prayer, example, and encouragement. Scripture References: * 1 Samuel 1-2 - Hannah’s prayer, Samuel’s birth, and dedication to the Lord * Psalm 62:8 - Pouring out our hearts before God * Philippians 4:6 - Bringing every concern to God in prayer * Matthew 19 - God’s design for marriage * 2 Timothy 1:5 - The faith of Timothy’s mother and grandmother * Acts 3:24 - Samuel’s significance in God’s redemptive plan Keywords: Hannah, Samuel, prayer, parenting, faithfulness, kingdom influence, Christian family, surrender, discipleship, trusting God Challenge: Ask God this week to show you one specific way you can faithfully influence the next generation for Christ through prayer, encouragement, or spiritual example. Listen & Subscribe: Well Faith Podcast [https://wellfaith.buzzsprout.com?utm_source=chatgpt.com] #RockwellChurch218 Chris Teien, Pastor of Rockwell Church in Virginia, Minnesota, shares biblical preaching and practical encouragement through the WELL Faith Sermon Audio Podcast, along with occasional guest speakers. New messages are shared every week to encourage you in your faith and help you apply God's Word to your life. Learn more at ChrisTeien.com and Rockwell.church