Are You Real | Finding Your Purpose

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Linked 05: City Taking 101 Feb 01, 2018

Show notes

Church, we are called to take the cities. If you are a little confused about what that looks like in modern times, never fear. Together, we are going to take apart scripture from Luke 10 to see what Jesus meant about how we are to love our neighbors and serve the Kingdom together. In the paradoxical way that God sometimes takes, we know that to take the city, you have to give to your city. That is why I am excited to have Sarah and George Williams from Toledo as our first interview today.

George and Sarah launched the City Light Church in Toledo because they knew God was calling them to love their neighbors. The couple are taking the city through the art of giving. What started as fresh bread and front porch meals in their low income neighborhood has become a congregation experiencing the Holy Spirit in miraculous ways. It all started because of a simple act of obedience and a heart to love the lost.

Today, you will learn from George and Sarah's example about what it means to generously serve an entire city. If that feels like too big of a challenge, remember who gives you the strength to carry out such a weighty command! When we pray and ask for God's heart for his people, our churches cannot be stopped.

More in this episode:

George explains how he and Sarah took the biggest commandment seriously in Toledo.
God blessed and multiplied the people Sarah and George loved on in their neighborhood.
City Light Church experienced a "revival" that showed God's favor on their congregation.
We are asked to believe we can take a city.
The practical steps the Williams have taken to save their city.
God asked the Williams to plant a church that served their neighborhood.
Giving gifts are an incredibly practical and easy way to form relationships.
What has propelled Sarah and George through 13 years of ministry.
One of the best stories of someone being impacted with the work the Williams have done in Toledo.
Unifying pastors is all about prayer and faith.
How City Light has grown out of a desire to serve the neighborhood.

Links

City Light Toledo

87: Are You Real Government Launch with Dubb Alexander Jan 31, 2018

Show notes

Roar Nation, I am beyond ready to introduce you to the host of Are You Real: Government. If you've been with us a while, you have already been introduced to Dubb Alexander. I am consistently amazed by Dub'bs integrity and ability to disciple a lot of people. Currently, he is doing great work with Living Life By Design, as well as being a spiritual advisor to the most influential people in the world. In particular, Dubb has been called to advise and lead within government spheres, so who better to speak on the Kingdom as it is in our government than Dubb?

I guarantee that you have never heard someone talk about the Kingdom from this perspective before. Dubb is going to show us how we can participate in self-government in a way that proclaims the name of Jesus and changes our world. Hear all about Dubb, his plans for the show, and some of his best stories and memories as we dive in together. You have a lot of good, solid Truth coming your way.

More in this episode:

Dubb tells us what his vision for Are You Real: Government is going to be about.
We want to give clarity to principles on the kingdom to self-governance.
Dubb is most excited to share how we can be ambassadors in the government.
The Kingdom will be life-changing.
This show will help bring renewal to your mind.
You will walk away encouraged and equipped.
Letting it be in 2018!
Writing down and decreeing truth over ourselves is a part of God's government.
Hear Dubb's crazy road trip while traveling in Uganda.

Fit 03: 6 Basic Things You Need to Know About Nutrition Jan 30, 2018

Show notes

Why Proper Nutrition is Important for You

We all know that a balanced nutrition is an important building block for a healthy lifestyle, and if you are looking to make some small changes, this is the episode for you! I want to arm you with knowledge today that will help you make small changes to make a big impact on your wellness. Beyond that, I will also explain why these healthy habits are nutritious.

There are so many simple solutions out there that will make a huge difference in how you feel. We'll break down each group of nutrients that you need, and what purposes they serve in the body. I'll also share my perspective on certain fad diets, share my biggest advice I give my clients, and get you started on your nutrition journey. Go ahead and grab a glass of water, and sit down with this podcast. It's a small step you can take towards a healthy, energetic, and fulfilling lifestyle.

More in this episode:

Water is important overall.
Good nutrition is the building blocks for healthy muscles.
Muscle training is important for toning.
Discover what protein does for your body.
Carbs are not always the enemy.
My perspectives on the "Keto" diet.
Fats are not the enemy either!
Keep a food log.
Give your body time to rest.

Creatives 03: Holy Ghost Art with Darren Wilson Jan 29, 2018

Show notes

Welcome back! This show is all about touching base with creative leaders in the church culture, and that is exactly why I have a trailblazer like Darren Wilson here with me today. Darren is doing amazing things to change the way Christians view and use film to communicate our inherent creativity. You see, Darren has a real problem with much of the art that is released in Christian circles. So much of it, he says, is ruled by fear. We fear it will anger or marginalize. We fear we might misrepresent God. Darren is encouraging you today to take a step out in faith and create something as if fear wasn't in the picture. His films are proof of that.

Darren produces and now directs with WP Films. Each project since day once is seen as a chance to push himself creatively. No project begins without some kind of leading from the Holy Spirit. Films like Finger of God and Holy Ghost are creative explorations that push the limits of where Christian cinema has dared to go before. With each project, Darren has explored the darkest parts of the world, prayed with countless people, and seen miracles happen before his very eyes. All of this was possible because Darren believed God's promise to lead by his Spirit. You'll want to follow in his footsteps after this!

More in this episode:

Darren gives us his background in film.
Charismatic Christianity wasn't a part of Darren's history, but it birthed Finger of God and changes so many lives.
How Darren moved from scripted films to Spirit-led films.
We can, in a sense, negotiate with God.
God takes pleasure in our creativity.
You have to be fearless to push creative boundaries.
What Darren did in filmmaking that was certainly outside the box.
There need to be new ways to get people to see the films.
What's next for WP Films.
Why Darren films in the darkest, most interesting places.
It doesn't have to be spontaneous to be prophetic.
When to expect Finger of God 2.

Links:

http://www.wpfilm.com/

pr@wpfilms.com

@WanderDarren on Instagram and Twitter

Linked 04: Watch for Your Harvest Jan 25, 2018

Show notes

Here at Are You Real, we believe that a deep and fulfilling life only happens when we are linked to the Holy Spirit and to one another. Over the past few weeks, we have taken a deep look at a passage from Luke 10 to show us what it could look like for the church if we were empowered by the Holy Spirit. Today, we continue with our verse from Luke 10 verse 2, "The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field."

We live in a paradoxical world. While Jesus was sending out his disciples to take a city, he was, in fact, asking them to give of themselves and pour out their lives for others. However, we cannot pour out from what we have not received. Today, I am going to show you how being linked to community with one another empowers us to go out into the harvest. This is such a rich parable upon which we can begin to model our lives. It's time for the church to leave the building and go out into the harvest. It is, after all, plentiful! To get started, give this podcast a listen, and get connected with someone near you. Watch as the Holy Spirit transforms your life!

More in this episode:

I share from my heart what I think we need. Hint: it's community!
What it means to be sent out to the nations.
Jesus sent us the Holy Spirit to empower us.
Hear how harvest is being used in the Scriptures.
It's hard for us to have the same perspective of an agrarian society, but let's dive in!
The spiritual parallels to what happens in the harvest season.
Why the watchman is important!
My heart is for the laborers.
When one is weak, the other is strong.

86: Stepping Out into What You Love to Do with Eric and Shane Valenstein Jan 24, 2018

Show notes

Starting a church is a huge responsibility. How do you know if you are called to lead a church, let alone a brand new one? If you are a young person who is feeling called, how can you plant a church with no money? If these questions seem too big, just wait. We have a lot of good things in store for you!

We all have a lot of ideas about what church should look like, and starting a church is one of the many ways God is moving in his people. Church planters are bringing the gospel right to the people, and that is so exciting to me! Today, I have not one, but two church planters with me on the podcast. Eric and Shane Valenstein are brothers, pastors, and now church planters. They also host the excellent podcast, Not Your Mama's Christian Podcast. I was on their show about a month ago from this recording, and we had a blast. On Not Your Mama's Christian Podcast, they share life, they have stupid arguments, and they share the gospel. It's everything the future of the church should be looking towards.

Today, we try to tackle some of the fine points of finding your calling. Shane and Eric will tackle how to determine if church planting is your calling. Maybe it's time to dip your toes in and give it a try. It might surprise you how doors open up! We'll also discuss how the New Testament church in the Bible is so drastically different from what we see today. The face of the church needs to change, and church planting is a huge part of that! Get ready and dig into everything you need to know about starting a church, as well as finding out ways to get involved with all the great things Eric and Shane are doing.

Business 02: How Your Faith Can Transform Your Business Jan 23, 2018

Show notes

In last week's episode, we talked about all the ways you can live out your authentic faith by starting a business. Today, we are taking it to the next level by discussing all the ways you can transform your business. Whether you are just starting out or have been in business for decades now, there is always room to grow. God calls us to steward our businesses for his glory, and by growing your business using your God-given gifts and talents, you are doing just that!

Starting a business and continuing a business require a different mindset. While some might be tempted to hire a new manager or sell their business, I am confident that you can learn the skills and mindset shifts you need to continue. I break down this process into five simple steps: Pray, Prepare, Proclaim Your Idea, Find you People, and Persevere through difficulties. With God at your back, you can accomplish anything. It's OK to run a few metaphorical red lights on your way to success in business. As you are prayerfully preparing for what's next in your business, don't forget the people and friends that God has placed in your life to help you along on your journey.

Are you ready to transform your existing business? You can start today!

More in this episode:

Surround yourself with smart people!
Your time to act is now, Entrepreneurs.
Pray and ask God for next steps in your business. Pray with your spouse or your partnership.
Prepare and get your plan together.
Proclaim your ideas! The enemy wants you to keep your big dreams silent.
You need to find people who are in this dream.
Perseverance is critical when you are on the cusp of growth.
My secret to when I have a tough day in business.
Books make a huge difference.

Links:

The Power of Positive Thinking by Dr. Norman Vincent Peale

Success 02: Academic Success is Not a Predictor of Your Success in Life with Javier Flores Jan 22, 2018

Show notes

Today I am excited to bring you a success story all about hard work, second chances, and the opportunity to build a legacy. I'm chatting with Javier Flores today, who is leading the way for success through education. However, the educational system wasn't so kind to him when he was a student.

Javier's first disadvantage was that he was a 1st Generation college student, the youngest of four in a family that struggled to make ends meet. Despite that, he now holds a Masters and Doctorate degree in Education. You would think with so many degrees that Javier was always a star student, but that wasn't the case! Javier failed school and was academically suspended. Because a leader gave him a second chance, Javier was able to prove to himself and others that he had what it takes to succeed.

Now, Javier is on a mission to influence education and change the narrative for students like him. He is doing that on the campus of Angelo State University by creating a student-first environment. Of the many programs for students he has started, his First-Year Camp is one of the most successful. ASU is now more affordable and accessible for 1st Generation college students. As Javier likes to say, a degree doesn't just change your life—it can pave the way for success for generations to come.

I am excited for you to hear all about Javier's difficult beginning. If you are feeling overwhelmed by your circumstances or unsure if you should continue on, this episode will speak to you. It is never too late to try again. Javier is proof of that!

More in this episode:

• Javier shares how he is setting first-year student up for success at Angelo State University.

• College degrees can change your entire family. Javier is trying to make that happen for so many families.

• Balance is important to achieve success.

• Look at problems as a creator.

• Javier looks back at his childhood in poverty and celebrates the character the parents built up in him.

• How Javier is reaching out to kids like him.

• Intuition and brokering in relationships are the skills that unlock Javier's success.

• Communication skills that you can use to lead your team.

• Be aware that you always have a team behind you.

• It's never too late to go back to school!

Linked 03: How to Pray Jan 18, 2018

Show notes

In order to be the real you in faith, you have to know what your identity is in Christ. Over the past few episodes, we've been taking a closer look at Luke 10. I believe this passage is our best example of how the apostles were living out their faith linked to the Holy Spirit. After all, that's what Are you Real: Linked is all about! I want you to be as connected to the Spirit of the Living God as you can be. As followers of Christ, we have a direct link to God through prayer.

Daily prayer is critical if you want to be linked to the Holy Spirit. Cultivating a prayer life is challenging, but not impossible. Today, I am going to show you how Scripture talks about prayer in 2 distinct ways. We'll break down how parables work, and why the imagery of the harvest is a believer's call to prayer. I'll also be sharing with you ways in which prayer has transformed my own life. I know your life will be forever changed by taking the time to pray over the lost souls in your life, as well as for laborers to go out among them. Start here with me, and never look back! Prayer changes lives.

More in this episode:

I share one of the places where I've been challenged to demonstrate this Luke 10 faith.
The church was called to be people who rise up to take background for the Kingdom.
I break down how parables are helpful tools for understanding spiritual matters.
We need to ask and beg the Lord to send out laborers into the harvest.
Understand the 4 Greek words of prayer.
Prayer allows us to be encouraged to go out into the harvest.
We can only love well when the Spirit moves in our lives.
My prayer challenge to you today.

85: Acting, Producing and Leaving Hollywood with Nathan VonMinden & Cameron Arnett Jan 17, 2018

Show notes

When you find God's purpose in your life, you gain the confidence to make decisions full of faith and integrity. Today, I am bringing to you two men who have operated with faith and integrity in a way that could completely shift our culture and the entertainment industry. I'm chatting with Nathan VonMinden and Cameron Arnett. Both men are involved in the production of Angry Men, a film about the deadly Challenger explosion that rocked the nation. This film tells the story of the true events of a few angry men who tried to stop the Challenger from launching, knowing very well that they were putting their livelihood on the line. While this film is not evangelical in nature, those guiding principles of faith and integrity are put on full display for audiences to see.

Up first is Nathan VonMinden, who started off his adult life as an aerospace engineer, but found a passion in producing video for his church. He saw his early video production days as a training ground for much bigger film projects God had in store. After eight years of research and a year of writing, Nathan decided to take a giant leap of faith and produce Angry Men. It is an all-hands-on-deck type of project, but so far his team has seen incredible results and rewarding experiences of genuine faith. He will share all about how God has empowered him to do the impossible, and after listening to his story, you'll believe the same. I'm confident in that!

Next up is Cameron Arnett, an actor with one of the pivotal roles in Angry Men. Cameron will share how he got his start in Hollywood, but felt God call him away and into ministry. He never thought he would be able to act again, but God showed him the way to fulfill his purpose and use his gifts in Christian film. Now, he is working with Nathan and his team and seeing the enormous impact that faith and integrity are making in this film's production process. He has an encouraging word for Christians who might want to consider acting, as well as courage for young people in the midst of tough decision making.

If you need a confidence boost today, this is the episode for you. God is doing incredible things in the lives of Nathan and Cameron. You don't want to miss out!

More in this episode:

Nathan shares how he went from aerospace engineering to producing films.
Working with creative believers is all about a creative purpose for Nathan.
God has provided everything they needed to create his vision.
Entrepreneurship and integrity are the keys to Nathan's success.
Nathan shares a story of creative problem solving on set.
Hear all about the incredible story of some angry men who attempted to stop the Challenger launch.
Nathan shares why Cameron was such a good fit for the movie.
The cast of the movie works together in an incredible way that speaks to God's character.
Cameron speaks candidly about his history as an actor, and what drew him to be a part of Christian Film.
Trust that God is for you. All you have to do is give yourself unto his way.