When the Holy Spirit Empowers Ordinary People

Wisdom for Leading Your Family Well

What will your family remember about you? Long after accomplishments, possessions, and achievements fade, the influence of your character, faith, and example will remain. In Wisdom for Leading Your Family Well, Pastor Chris Teien explores Proverbs 4 and God's wisdom for shaping future generations through faithful living, intentional teaching, and a lasting legacy of faith. Key Points: #1 LEAD Through Your Example Proverbs 20:7 Children and those we influence learn more from what they observe than from what they are told. A life marked by integrity, faithfulness, and a sincere pursuit of God leaves a lasting impact on future generations. #2 TEACH God's Truth Intentionally Deuteronomy 6:6-9; Ephesians 6:4; Proverbs 22:6 Faith does not pass automatically from one generation to the next. God calls parents and spiritual leaders to intentionally teach His Word through daily conversations, consistent instruction, and personal example. #3 BUILD a Legacy of Faith Proverbs 4:1-9 Wise leaders invest in future generations by passing on God's wisdom. The greatest inheritance we can leave is not financial wealth but a faith that points others toward Christ and continues long after we are gone. Stories and Illustrations from Pastor Chris: * Reflections on becoming a grandfather and influencing younger generations. * Memories of family members whose example left a lasting impression. * Parenting lessons learned through raising children. * Practical examples of investing in others beyond one's immediate family. * The story of a Scottish lighthouse keeper whose faithful service illustrates the importance of continuing to shine for Christ even when we cannot immediately see the results. Notable Quotes: * "You are somebody that can lead somebody." * "Long before people listen to our words, they observe our lives." * "We cannot give away what we do not possess." * "Your influence today shapes future generations." * "The light doesn't need me to see the ships. It just needs to keep shining." Actionable Takeaways: * Examine the example your daily life is setting. * Look for opportunities to intentionally discuss God's truth with others. * Invest time in someone younger in the faith. * Keep shining faithfully even when you cannot immediately see the results. * Consider what legacy your current choices are building. Scripture References: Proverbs 20:7; Deuteronomy 6:6-9; Ephesians 6:4; Proverbs 22:6; Proverbs 4:1-9; Joshua 24:15; Genesis 6:9; 3 John 4. Keywords: Christian family, biblical parenting, spiritual leadership, Proverbs, discipleship, faith legacy, Christian influence, family ministry, wisdom, Christian living, Christian leadership, godly parenting, raising children, mentoring others, generational faith. Challenge: If your family gathered to describe your life years from now, what would they remember most? Choose one practical step this week that will help leave a legacy of faith for future generations. Original podcast episode and transcript: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2285086/episodes/19380307 [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2285086/episodes/19380307] 26.0621der Helping you trust God's Word and follow Jesus in everyday life. Learn more at ChrisTeien.com [https://ChrisTeien.com] and Rockwell.church [https://Rockwell.church]

Leading Through Wise Influences and Avoiding Compromise

Every day, countless voices compete for our attention. Friends, family, social media, entertainment, culture, and personal desires all influence the direction of our lives. The question is not whether we are being influenced, but whether those influences are leading us closer to Christ or pulling us toward compromise. In this message, Leading Through Wise Influences and Avoiding Compromise, Pastor Chris Teien explores Proverbs 1 and Proverbs 4 to show how wise leaders choose the right influences, resist harmful pressures, walk the right path, and guard their hearts. This practical message challenges believers to carefully consider who and what is shaping their decisions, values, and future. Key Points: #1 Listen to Wise Voices Proverbs 1:8; Proverbs 12:15; Proverbs 13:20 God uses parents, mentors, Scripture, faithful believers, and Christian examples from the past to help guide His people. Wise leaders remain teachable and intentionally seek godly counsel. #2 Avoid Harmful Influences Proverbs 1:10-19 Sin often comes disguised as opportunity, acceptance, profit, or pleasure. Solomon warns believers not to give in to sinful pressures that ultimately lead to destruction and regret. #3 Choose the Right Path Proverbs 4:14-19; Psalm 1 The path we choose today determines where we arrive tomorrow. God calls His people to reject compromise, avoid the way of the wicked, and intentionally pursue righteousness. #4 Guard Your Heart Proverbs 4:20-27 The heart determines the direction of life. Wise leaders guard their hearts by protecting their speech, their focus, their priorities, and their daily habits so they remain faithful to Christ. Stories and Illustrations from Pastor Chris: * The fire lookout station as a picture of remaining watchful against dangerous influences. * The life and ministry struggles of missionary C.T. Studd. * Lessons from biographies of Christian leaders including Spurgeon, Tozer, Knox, and others. * The value of church partnerships and accountability through Converge. * Dogs learning behaviors from one another as an illustration of influence. * Lot's gradual movement toward Sodom as an example of compromise developing one step at a time. Notable Quotes: * "We're all leading someone." * "Fools think their own way is right, but the wise listen to others." * "Walk with the wise and become wise. Associate with fools and get in trouble." * "Sin always promises more than it delivers, it always takes more than it gives, and it always costs more than expected." * "Strong Christian lives are really built through thousands of ordinary decisions to keep following Christ." Actionable Takeaways: * Seek wisdom from Scripture and mature believers. * Evaluate the voices influencing your thoughts and decisions. * Refuse to compromise biblical convictions for acceptance or gain. * Make daily choices that move you closer to Christ. * Establish healthy boundaries for media, entertainment, and relationships. * Guard your heart by watching your words, focus, habits, and priorities. Scripture References: Proverbs 1:8-19; Proverbs 4:14-27; Proverbs 12:15; Proverbs 13:20; Romans 15:4; Psalm 1; Luke 6:45; Proverbs 27:19; Ephesians 3:17. Keywords: Proverbs, wisdom, Christian leadership, wise influences, avoiding compromise, guarding your heart, spiritual growth, discipleship, biblical wisdom, Christian living, godly leadership, following Christ, resisting temptation, spiritual maturity, biblical decision making Challenge: What voices are shaping your life, and where might compromise be quietly influencing your decisions? Ask God to help you listen to wise voices, guard your heart, and stay on the path that leads to faithfulness and spiritual growth. Original podcast episode and transcript: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2285086/episodes/19356952 [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2285086/episodes/19356952] 26.0614der Helping you trust God's Word and follow Jesus in everyday life. Learn more at ChrisTeien.com [https://ChrisTeien.com] and Rockwell.church [https://Rockwell.church]

Leading with True Wisdom

What does it take to lead with true wisdom? In a world overflowing with information, opinions, and opportunities, many people gain knowledge but still struggle to make wise decisions. The Bible teaches that true wisdom begins with God and shapes every area of life, leadership, and decision-making. In this message, Leading with True Wisdom, Pastor Chris Teien explores Proverbs 1 and related passages to show where wisdom begins, why the fear of the Lord is essential, and how believers can pursue and apply God's wisdom in everyday life. Whether you are leading a family, a workplace, a ministry, or simply seeking to follow Christ faithfully, this sermon points to Jesus Christ as the ultimate source of wisdom and the foundation for godly leadership. Key Points: #1 Wise Leaders Recognize Their Need for Wisdom Proverbs 1:2-6; 1 Kings 3:9 Wisdom begins with humility. Solomon recognized that he needed God's help to lead well, and God honored that request. Wise people acknowledge their need for God's guidance rather than relying solely on their own understanding, experience, or knowledge. #2 Wise Leaders Live in the Fear of the Lord Proverbs 1:7; Proverbs 9:10; 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 leads to submission, obedience, and a desire to please Him. True wisdom cannot be separated from a right relationship with God. #3 Wise Leaders Continually Pursue and Apply God's Wisdom Proverbs 2:1-6; James 1:5; James 1:22 Wisdom requires intentional pursuit. Believers are called to listen, seek, ask, treasure, search, and apply God's truth. Wisdom is not merely accumulated knowledge but truth lived out in everyday decisions and relationships. #4 Jesus Christ Is the Ultimate Source of Wisdom Colossians 2:2-3; 1 Corinthians 1:24-30 The New Testament reveals that wisdom is ultimately found in Christ. Solomon points believers toward wisdom, James encourages believers to ask for wisdom, and Paul declares that all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge are found in Jesus Christ. Stories and Illustrations from Pastor Chris: * The experience of purchasing a foreclosure home in Chisholm that ultimately became the right home for foster care and adoption ministry. * Solomon's request for wisdom and his later failures despite possessing extraordinary wisdom. * The distinction between knowledge and wisdom illustrated through the example of knowing how to use a gun versus knowing when to use it. * J.R. Miller's story of the artist who committed to adding at least one line to his work every day as a picture of continual growth. * David seeking God's direction before going into battle rather than acting independently. Notable Quotes: * "Wisdom from God is the ability to rightly apply that knowledge." * "Live your life in such a way that you are worth following." * "Knowledge can exist without wisdom, but not the other way around." * "The fear of the Lord is the foundation of true knowledge." * "Don't just listen to God's word. You must do what it says." Actionable Takeaways: * Ask God regularly for wisdom before making important decisions. * Read and study Scripture with the goal of applying it, not merely understanding it. * Cultivate a healthy fear of the Lord through worship, obedience, and reverence. * Continue growing spiritually regardless of age or experience. * Seek wisdom from Christ, in whom all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge are found. * Put God's truth into practice through daily obedience and faithful leadership. Scripture References: 1 Corinthians 1:24-30; Proverbs 1:1-7; Proverbs 2:1-6; Proverbs 9:10; 1 Kings 3:9-12; James 1:5; James 1:22; James 3:13; Psalm 111:10; 2 Samuel 5:19; Colossians 2:2-3; Ecclesiastes 12:13; Proverbs 14:12. Keywords: Proverbs, wisdom, biblical wisdom, Christian leadership, leading with wisdom, fear of the Lord, godly leadership, spiritual growth, discipleship, Jesus Christ, applying God's Word, Christian maturity, biblical decision making, knowledge and wisdom, leadership principles Challenge: Are you merely gathering knowledge, or are you actively pursuing and applying God's wisdom? Ask the Lord to help you fear Him, seek His guidance, and faithfully follow Christ, the true source of wisdom, in every decision and responsibility He has entrusted to you. Original podcast episode and transcript: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2285086/episodes/19309020 [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2285086/episodes/19309020] 26.0607der Helping you trust God's Word and follow Jesus in everyday life. Learn more at ChrisTeien.com [https://ChrisTeien.com] and Rockwell.church [https://Rockwell.church]

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

What do you do when life gets hard, faith feels difficult, and quitting seems easier than pressing forward? The Christian life is not a sprint. It's a race that requires endurance, perseverance, and a steadfast focus on Jesus Christ. The good news is that God has given us everything we need to keep running faithfully. In this replay message from 2017, Don't Quit: Staying Strong in the Race of Faith, Pastor Chris Teien explores Hebrews 12:1-4 and encourages believers to keep moving forward even through hardship, disappointment, failure, and opposition. Looking at the examples of faithful believers who have gone before us, this sermon challenges us to remove distractions, fix our eyes on Jesus, and finish the race God has set before us. Key Points: #1 Know You Are Being Watched Hebrews 12:1 The faithful believers who have gone before us remind us that our lives matter. Family members, friends, neighbors, and fellow believers often learn from the way we handle challenges, setbacks, suffering, and victories. Your faithfulness can encourage someone else to keep running their race. #2 Get Rid of the Things That Slow You Down Hebrews 12:1; 1 John 2:16 Every runner must remove unnecessary weight. In the Christian life, that includes sin, distractions, unhealthy priorities, and worldly pursuits that keep us from following Christ wholeheartedly. God calls us to lay aside whatever hinders our spiritual growth. #3 Make Sure You're Running the Right Race John 3:16; John 3:36; Romans 6:23; 1 John 5:11-13 Before someone can finish the race of faith, they must first enter it through faith in Jesus Christ. Eternal life is found in Christ alone, and the race begins when we trust Him as Savior and Lord. #4 Focus on the Champion Hebrews 12:2 Jesus is the perfect example of endurance and faithfulness. He endured the cross, overcame suffering, and completed His mission. Believers are called to keep their eyes fixed on Him rather than becoming distracted by circumstances or comparisons. #5 Don't Expect the Race to Be Easy Hebrews 12:3-4; 2 Timothy 3:12; 2 Timothy 4:7-8 The Christian life includes opposition, hardship, sacrifice, and perseverance. Yet God promises strength for the journey and a future reward for those who remain faithful and finish well. Stories and Illustrations from Pastor Chris: *  Watching classic sporting events and learning from those who have gone before us.  *  Marching in a large stadium as a young saxophone player and learning to follow faithful examples.  *  The church truck hood flipping up during an ice storm and remembering a race car driver who had faced a similar challenge.  *  Encouraging a struggling couple not to give up too quickly on their marriage.  *  The illustration of runners removing unnecessary weight to compete effectively.  *  Examples of famous individuals who overcame rejection, failure, and setbacks before achieving success.  Notable Quotes: *  "We all need to be racing toward Christ, towards eternity."  *  "Know you are being watched."  *  "Get rid of the stuff that slows you down."  *  "We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus."  *  "God wants you to finish the race."  Actionable Takeaways: *  Consider how your faithfulness may encourage others.  *  Identify sins, habits, and distractions that are slowing your spiritual growth.  *  Make sure your confidence for eternity is placed in Jesus Christ alone.  *  Keep your focus on Christ rather than comparing yourself to others.  *  Expect challenges and opposition as part of following Christ.  *  Commit to finishing your race faithfully regardless of past failures or present difficulties.  Scripture References: Hebrews 12:1-4; Hebrews 11; 1 John 2:16; John 3:16; John 3:36; Romans 6:23; 1 John 5:11-13; 2 Timothy 3:12; 2 Timothy 4:7-8. Keywords: Hebrews 12, race of faith, Christian endurance, perseverance, keeping your eyes on Jesus, spiritual growth, finishing well, Christian discipleship, faithfulness, salvation, eternal life, overcoming obstacles, Christian encouragement, following Christ, enduring faith Challenge: What is slowing you down in your walk with Christ? Lay aside the distractions, sins, fears, and burdens that are holding you back, fix your eyes on Jesus, and commit to running the race He has set before you with endurance and faithfulness. Original podcast episode and transcript: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2285086/episodes/16335680 [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2285086/episodes/16335680] 17m0826der Helping you trust God's Word and follow Jesus in everyday life. Learn more at ChrisTeien.com [https://ChrisTeien.com] and Rockwell.church [https://Rockwell.church]

When the Holy Spirit Empowers Ordinary People

What can God do through ordinary people who are empowered by His Spirit? Throughout Scripture, God repeatedly uses unlikely people to accomplish extraordinary things. From David's mighty warriors to the apostles at Pentecost, God's power is displayed not through human strength alone, but through people who are willing to trust Him, follow Him, and serve His purposes. In this message, When the Holy Spirit Empowers Ordinary People, Pastor Chris Teien explores the connection between David's mighty men and the coming of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost. Through examples from the life of David, the early church, and the teachings of Scripture, this sermon reminds believers that God equips ordinary people with extraordinary power to stand courageously, remain faithful to His mission, and pour out their lives for Christ. Key Points: #1 God Gives Ordinary People Courage to Stand 2 Samuel 23:8-12; 1 Samuel 22:1-2; 1 Chronicles 12:18 David's mighty warriors were not necessarily the people most would have chosen. Many came to David distressed, in debt, or discontented. Yet through God's work and the empowering presence of His Spirit, they became courageous leaders and faithful servants who stood firm when others fled. #2 The Holy Spirit Gives Boldness Acts 2:1-4; Acts 4:13 The disciples were ordinary people who often struggled with fear and uncertainty. But when the Holy Spirit came at Pentecost, everything changed. God empowered them to boldly proclaim Christ and fulfill the mission He had given them. #3 Faithfulness Matters More Than Ability 1 Corinthians 1:27; Acts 4:13 God often chooses people the world overlooks. His power is displayed most clearly when ordinary believers step forward in faith and obedience. The question is not whether we are extraordinary, but whether we are willing to let God use us. #4 Faithfulness to the Mission Requires Sacrifice 2 Samuel 23:13-17; Luke 9:23 David's mighty men demonstrated remarkable devotion and loyalty. Their willingness to risk everything for their king reminds believers of the commitment required to follow Christ and serve His kingdom faithfully. #5 Worship Through Sacrifice 2 Samuel 23:16-17; Philippians 2:17 When David poured out the water brought by his warriors as an offering to the Lord, he recognized that every victory and every act of devotion ultimately belonged to God. Believers are called to offer their lives, time, talents, and resources as acts of worship. #6 The Holy Spirit Empowers Believers Today Acts 2:17; Romans 5:8 The same Spirit who empowered David's warriors and the apostles continues to work through believers today. God equips His people to serve, endure hardship, share their faith, and live courageously for Christ. Stories and Illustrations from Pastor Chris: * David's mighty men defending Israel and standing firm when others fled. * The defense of the lentil field as an example of courage and faithfulness. * The gathering of David's unlikely followers who became mighty warriors. * Peter's transformation from fear and denial to bold preaching after Pentecost. * The devotion of David's warriors who risked their lives to bring him water from Bethlehem. * Memorial Day reflections on sacrifice, service, and faithfulness. Notable Quotes: * "Sometimes when you're faithful to show up, then God shows up." * "God uses ordinary people and God can use you." * "The question isn't, are you extraordinary? The question is, am I willing to let God use my life?" * "Real devotion costs something." * "Believers pour out their lives for Christ." Actionable Takeaways: * Trust God to use you even when you feel ordinary or inadequate. * Ask the Holy Spirit to give you boldness in your daily witness. * Remain faithful to the mission God has placed before you. * Be willing to sacrifice comfort, convenience, and personal preferences for Christ's kingdom. * Use your time, talents, and resources as acts of worship. * Look for opportunities to share Christ and serve others this week. Scripture References: 2 Samuel 23:8-17; 1 Samuel 22:1-2; 1 Chronicles 12:18; Acts 2:1-17; Acts 4:13; 1 Corinthians 1:27; Luke 9:23; Philippians 2:17; Romans 5:8; Romans 6:23. Keywords: Holy Spirit, Pentecost, David's mighty men, ordinary people, Christian courage, bold faith, spiritual empowerment, Acts 2, biblical leadership, Christian service, discipleship, sacrifice, faithfulness, worship, following Jesus Challenge: Do you see yourself as ordinary? Throughout Scripture, God delights in using ordinary people who are surrendered to Him. Ask the Holy Spirit to empower you, strengthen your faith, and use your life for something that will make an eternal difference. Original podcast episode and transcript: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2285086/episodes/19231900 [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2285086/episodes/19231900] 26.0524der Spend Your Life for Something Greater Helping you trust God's Word and follow Jesus in everyday life. Learn more at ChrisTeien.com [https://ChrisTeien.com] and Rockwell.church [https://Rockwell.church]