Now What?

Distractions

God has called you higher — but the enemy will always try to distract you from your assignment. In this episode of Ascend, Pastor Justin and Pastor Carl unpack how distractions are one of the greatest weapons the enemy uses against believers. From Nehemiah rebuilding Jerusalem while facing criticism and opposition, to Peter walking on water until fear shifted his focus, this conversation dives deep into what keeps us from fully stepping into our calling. Not every distraction looks bad. Some distractions are comfortable. Some are enjoyable. Some even look productive. But anything that pulls your focus away from what God values most can eventually become dangerous. Social media. Relationships. Fear. News. Politics. Finances. Success. Opportunities. Toxic voices. Sin. Even good things without boundaries. The enemy doesn’t want to destroy your purpose overnight — he wants to slowly distract you from it. This episode challenges you to identify what’s competing for your attention, set boundaries, develop spiritual discipline, and refocus on what matters most. Because there is nothing more satisfying than living on purpose for Jesus. “Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.” — 1 Peter 5:8 Stay focused. Get in your Word. Pray with purpose. Remove the distractions. Ascend higher.

Lap 2

What happens after you say yes to Jesus? Salvation is the starting line — sanctification is the second lap. In this episode, Pastor Carl and Pastor J unpack one of the most misunderstood “church words” in Christianity: sanctification. It’s not about religion, perfection, or rule-following. It’s the daily pursuit of becoming more like Christ — being set apart for God’s purpose and learning how to stay in the race. Through personal stories, Scripture, and honest conversation, this episode challenges listeners to embrace the process, press into truth, and understand that faith is not a sprint — it’s a lifelong journey. You’ll hear conversations around: * What sanctification actually means * Why Christianity was never meant to be easy * The importance of truth, holiness, and spiritual growth * How the Holy Spirit helps us endure the hard seasons * Why finishing well matters just as much as starting well No matter where you are in your faith journey, there is always another step to take. Where do you need to start ascending?

Next Gen

On this episode of the Ascend Podcast, Justin Graham and Melissa Graham bring a powerful conversation on the next generation—and why how you ascend matters more than you think. From parenting to pastoring, they unpack what it looks like to call others higher while continuing to grow yourself.Because the truth is—you were never meant to ascend alone. In a culture full of noise, this generation isn’t disengaged… they’re searching for truth. And when truth is spoken boldly, it changes everything. This episode challenges you to: * Lead with intention and integrity * Speak life into the next generation * Live a faith that’s visible beyond Sunday * Raise the standard—and help others reach it Because how you live today will shape who rises tomorrow. Run with us. Ascend together.

Now What?

“You Were Running So Well — Now What?” Pastor J + Pastor Carl What happens after the encounter? After the conference, the altar moment, the decision, the breakthrough… now what? In this powerful episode, Pastor J and Pastor Carl talk about what it really means to walk out your faith after a life-changing moment with God. An encounter is powerful — but transformation happens in the days that follow. Monday morning matters. Hebrews 12 reminds us to strip off every weight and the sin that so easily entangles us, and fix our eyes on Jesus. But many believers find themselves slipping back into the very things God set them free from. Why? Because freedom requires partnership — God does His part, and we must do ours. This episode dives into: • Why the real battle often begins after the encounter • How to avoid getting re-entangled in old habits and strongholds • The importance of accountability, community, and replacing old patterns • Dealing with the root, not just trimming the surface • Sanctification — the journey of continually ascending and becoming more like Christ • What to do when Monday doesn’t feel spiritual • How to stay free from anxiety, addiction, depression, and destructive cycles • Why isolation is dangerous and brotherhood matters • What to do when you stumble — and how to get back up and keep climbing The enemy wants you isolated, tangled, and defeated — but God calls you to keep ascending. If you’ve ever asked: “I had an encounter with God… but how do I walk this out?” — this episode is for you. Freedom is possible. Growth is possible. Don’t quit. Keep climbing. Get connected. Stay rooted. Keep ascending.

Check Your Circle

Season 2 of the Ascend Podcast launches with a powerful and timely conversation around one foundational question: Who are you following? In Episode 1, Check Your Circle, Justin Graham and Karl Kincaid unpack what it truly means to follow—not casually, not culturally, but intentionally and biblically. Following isn’t drifting, doing your own thing, or keeping Jesus as one option among many. Real following requires alignment—moving when He moves, turning when He turns, and matching His pace. The conversation highlights that while Jesus is the ultimate one we follow, God has also placed people in our lives to help guide, sharpen, and model faith. The problem arises when we imitate voices, lifestyles, or ideologies that are not rooted in Christ. If you follow someone, you will eventually imitate them—whether you intend to or not. Pastor Carl shares a compelling personal testimony, reflecting on how the example of others shaped his early life, the impact of misguided influence, and how God ultimately used Scripture, family, and community to call him back. His story points to the truth of “Train up a child in the way they should go” and how God’s call can resurface even after seasons of drifting. In 2008, Pastor Carl clearly heard the call of God on his life—reminding us that God calls everyone, but it’s our responsibility to choose whether we will follow. Justin emphasizes that everyone has a ministry. The real question is whether we will follow God’s call—or continue doing our own thing. Following Jesus requires denying self, a concept many struggle with today. We are often quick to distance ourselves from others, yet slow to disown our own flesh, pride, and desires. Jesus’ words in Mark 8:34 challenge us to deny ourselves, take up our cross, and follow Him. The episode also explores the danger of isolation and unhealthy circles. The wrong pack can quietly lead us off course, into confusion, compromise, or spiritual “lala land.” Influence matters. The blind leading the blind only creates more damage. Integrity, character, and trust must define the people we allow to lead us—and we must be honest about whether those voices are truly following Christ behind the scenes. At the same time, the hosts clarify an important balance: we are called to reach sinners, not follow them. Jesus modeled this perfectly—strong enough in His identity to lift others up without being pulled down. As followers of Christ, we must know who we are, walk in confidence, and rely on the Holy Spirit to empower us to live differently. The conversation challenges listeners to evaluate modern distractions—social media, trending voices, ideologies, and even AI-driven influence—that subtly shape beliefs and behaviors. Many are intentional about who they follow online, yet far less intentional about following Jesus with the same passion. The episode closes with a strong call to stay connected to the local church. Following Christ was never meant to be done alone. We need pastors, community, Life Groups, and spiritual accountability. The local church keeps us grounded in the Word, protects us from offense, and helps us remain teachable. Correction, when rooted in love and Scripture, is not rejection—it’s discipleship. Check your circle. Check who you’re following. Align everything with the Word of God—because nothing trumps truth. This season begins with a clear challenge: Go all in with Christ. No lukewarm faith. No drifting. Follow Jesus—together.