The Living Waters Podcast

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Ep. 359 - Finding Beauty in Brokenness Oct 09, 2025

Show notes

Julia Zwayne joins the conversation to share about her new book, All Things Broken and Beautiful: What if Pain Was Not Forever, a heartfelt collection born out of years of compiling poems and reflections. Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar welcome Julia, honoring both her writing and the way God has worked through her brokenness to bring hope. E.Z. highlights a favorite poem from her book, moved not only as a believer but also as a father, seeing the fruit of his daughter’s faith at a young age. Oscar asks why despair has shaped so much of her writing, and Julia explains that the Lord often met her most powerfully in despair, bringing unexpected sweetness. The guys commend her gift, connecting it to their own stories of brokenness and dependence on God.

Ray shares how brokenness shaped his ministry, realizing that God delights in a contrite heart. E.Z. reflects how God used his brokenness to replace self-assurance with a more profound fear of the Lord. They note how lament, a biblical form of worshipful despair, is often missing in the church, leaving people without language for their pain. Julia’s poetry, often born from lament, becomes a testimony of truth and hope. She admits she tends to run to darkness out of habit, yet finds conviction and comfort in remembering God’s perfect plan. For her, poetry is a means of falling to her knees, echoing the Psalms as she laments honestly yet clings to hope.

Julia explains that stillness once terrified her because it left her alone with her thoughts, but she now knows she can walk through darkness with confidence in Christ. She writes in random bursts of inspiration, with her most powerful work often coming through times of pain. One such poem, "Blank Spaces," captures the monotony of life and the melancholy of routine, resonating with anyone who feels unseen in their daily struggles. The guys remind listeners that in despair, God is near—Jesus Himself wept at Lazarus’ tomb, showing the depth of His compassion.

The conversation grows vulnerable as the guys recall seasons of suffering, pointing to God’s healing of the brokenhearted. They urge believers wrestling with despair to embrace lament but also allow the Lord to lift them into joy. Pain may last for a lifetime, but God’s presence never leaves. Through brokenness, He equips His people to minister to others and reminds them not to underestimate the power of His Word. Without trials, faith would be shallow; with them, His grace is revealed as sufficient. And one day, standing at heaven’s threshold, believers will look back in awe at how God used even the darkest moments for His glory.

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Visit the Living Waters website to learn more and to access helpful resources!
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Check out The Evidence Study Bible and the Basic Training Course.
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Learn more about the hosts of this podcast.
Ray Comfort
Emeal (“E.Z.”) Zwayne
Mark Spence
Oscar Navarro

Finding Beauty in Brokenness. God Heals, Restores, and Equips Through Trials. – Highlight Episode 359 Oct 07, 2025

Show notes

Julia Zwayne shares about her new book, a collection of poems and reflections shaped by seasons of brokenness and God’s comfort. Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar hear how despair often became where the Lord met her most deeply, turning sorrow into hope. The guys reflect on the value of lament, a form of worship often overlooked in the church, as a means that draws believers closer to God. Julia explains how poetry helps her process pain and return to truth, admitting past tendencies to run toward darkness but finding confidence in Christ. One of her poems, “Blank Spaces,” captures life’s monotony and resonates with those who feel unseen. Together they affirm that even in despair God is near, His grace is sufficient, and He uses trials to deepen faith, equip His people, and ultimately bring glory to Himself.

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Ep. 358 - Humanism Exposed: When Man Tries to Play God Oct 02, 2025

Show notes

Humanism promises freedom but delivers the same rebellion mankind has repeated since the Garden of Eden. Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar discuss how humanism, at its core, is an attempt to reach heaven without God. Oscar shares from his own past as an atheist, explaining how he eventually realized that humanists place hope in human potential while ignoring the Creator. They often rely on technology to end suffering or build a better future, but without an objective moral standard, this vision drifts. Values like equality, justice, and human dignity are rooted in Christianity, yet they are also borrowed and redefined apart from God. When His authority is removed, everything shifts.

Ray and E.Z. demonstrate human nature with a simple experiment involving a wallet left out to see what people would do. Their conversation with the man who tried to steal it revealed how quickly morality bends to convenience. Humanism attempts to argue that man is insignificant by claiming the universe shows our smallness, while simultaneously elevating humanity as the solution to all problems. This contradiction shows that it is not about replacing belief with logic, but rather believing in oneself. The guys remind listeners that history proves against humanism: every attempt to build utopia without God ends in destruction. If money is your god, it’s never enough. Even noble ideals fall apart when disconnected from God’s truth.

Even conservatism, when separated from Christ, can slip into humanism by trusting in policies or political victories rather than God’s Word. Believers must stay alert, examining their hearts and watching for subtle ways pride can undermine their faith and dethrone God. Parents, in particular, are encouraged to intentionally disciple their children. Family devotions and honest conversations help equip kids with a biblical worldview before the world teaches them something else. The same principle applies in evangelism: build rapport, share the gospel clearly, and love others with joy.

The guys wrap up with encouragement. Before Christ, many believers were humanists at heart, but surrendering to Him brings true freedom. Humanism continues to grow like a false religion, always promoting the power of man, yet Scripture provides the only firm foundation. The solution is to stay rooted in God’s Word, reflect on how we spend our days, and intentionally disciple our families. When life is anchored in Christ, there is no wrong place or wrong time. Instead, we can have confidence that He reigns over all, and in Him, we find the security and joy that humanism can never provide.

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Borrowing from the Christian Worldview. Everything We Do Is Built on Faith. – Highlight Episode 358 Sep 30, 2025

Show notes

Humanism promises progress and freedom but ultimately repeats the rebellion that began in the Garden, placing faith in human potential while pushing God aside. It borrows values such as equality, justice, and dignity from Christianity, yet redefines them without His authority, resulting in shifting standards that cannot stand. Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar emphasize that history shows every attempt to build utopia apart from God ends in destruction, no matter how noble the intentions. They warn that even conservatism can turn into humanism when policies or politics become the focus instead of Christ. Believers are called to remain grounded in God’s Word, intentionally disciple their children, and live out the gospel daily. Ultimately, true freedom and security are not found in man-made ideals but only in surrendering to Christ, whose reign offers lasting hope.

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Ep. 357 - When AI Tells a Big Lie Sep 25, 2025

Show notes

Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar welcome guest Cal Smith from AIG Canada to discuss artificial intelligence and the lies it may tell. Cal, a longtime speaker on creation, shifted to video and social media during the COVID-19 pandemic, and his ministry has been effective. Recently, he started experimenting with AI, producing authentic, minimally edited video series that only include a hologram overlay. Mark shares his initial amazement at AI’s capabilities, but the guys agree that fact-checking is crucial. Elon Musk has warned that AI could be more dangerous than nuclear war, while surveys show that Gen Z is increasingly using it for therapy and relationships. This raises the question: what authority are young people giving to AI?

Cal explains that AI is only as good as the data it’s trained on. He emphasizes that, at its core, it’s still just a chatbot and cannot be taken at face value. Though sophisticated systems can be accurate, they still slip. Cal sets strict parameters—mathematics, logic, and observational science—when engaging with AI. Within those boundaries, he finds that AI reaches conclusions opposite to evolution; yet, when parameters are removed, its answers revert to mainstream assumptions. For Cal, this underscores the importance of critical thinking, a gift from God that Christians are called to preserve. The danger lies not in AI itself but in people handing over discernment.

The guys reflect on how society has shifted from books to Google, then to YouTube, and now to AI, with each shift eroding critical thinking. Christianity, they note, has always been a thinking faith, and believers must evaluate information carefully, grounding truth in Scripture. Cal wants his videos to show people that answers must be known for themselves, not outsourced to technology. He notes that the main pushback has focused on concerns about AI’s dangers, including skepticism from atheists and non-believers regarding the use of parameters in his conversations. His approach reveals bias, highlights contradictions, and directs viewers back to the authority of God’s Word.

For those concerned about AI, Cal recommends trying it out to better understand the tool. He recognizes its positive aspects: research, pattern recognition, and handling mundane tasks. He warns against trusting it entirely, as it reflects human bias. The guys conclude that AI, like a vast library, is only as useful as the person using it. Ultimately, logic supports Christian truth, but salvation and transformation come only through the gospel. Stay sharp, keep hearts rooted in Scripture, and use tools wisely without losing critical thinking or faith.

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Ep. 356 - Lessons Learned From the Life of John MacArthur Sep 18, 2025

Show notes

John MacArthur recently went to be with the Lord, a bittersweet reality—his presence will be deeply missed, yet he is now in glory with Christ. Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar reflect on the tremendous legacy he left behind, remembering how his ministry shaped their lives and influenced the broader church. Mark recalls MacArthur being the very first Christian author he read, who introduced him to expository preaching. Expository preaching works carefully through the Bible verse by verse, letting the passage itself dictate the theme. This approach addresses the issue of biblical illiteracy in America and prevents preachers from overlooking difficult or uncomfortable truths. MacArthur modeled this for decades, never losing the thrill of studying the text and preparing to preach.

MacArthur’s unwavering commitment was to elevate Christ while letting Scripture speak plainly and powerfully. The memorial service reflected a life well-lived, faithfully completed, and entirely Christ-centered. E.Z. recalls meeting him at a conference, where MacArthur's warmth and approachability were evident, even taking time to endorse his book. Ray first encountered him the weekend of E.Z.’s wedding, grateful for the opportunity to introduce a friend to MacArthur. Oscar emphasizes MacArthur’s doctrinal clarity, noting how his ministry cultivated churches filled with men passionate about the truth. Everyone lives with theology, but MacArthur insisted it must be accurate and consistent. His final words pointed to God’s grace conquering his heart and taking away the sting of death.

The guys remind listeners that while every hero of the faith remains human and imperfect, they can and should still be honored. MacArthur was a sinner like all of us, yet he was also a trailblazer whose courage and steadiness stand as examples. His courage inspired many, and his ministry drew believers across theological traditions, demonstrating that unity can coexist with disagreement. Honoring leaders before they are gone is a needed practice, resisting the pull of cancel culture and offering encouragement while it can still be heard. MacArthur feared God more than man, leaving behind a testimony that truth must always be spoken.

E.Z. concludes with powerful quotes from MacArthur. Other tributes highlight the broad scope of his impact and the profound influence he had. When faithful servants like him go to the Lord, they continue to speak through the work and words they leave behind. Ultimately, the story is not about a great man but about a great God who delights in using willing, flawed people to shape entire generations.

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Standing Firm in Truth: Lessons From John MacArthur – Highlight Episode 356 Sep 16, 2025

Show notes

John MacArthur’s recent passing is both sorrowful and hopeful, as the church grieves his absence yet rejoices because he is now with the Lord. Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar reflect on his significant influence, recalling how he introduced many to expository preaching, faithfully working through Scripture verse by verse instead of letting topics drive the message. They share memories of his warmth in personal encounters, his passion for doctrinal clarity, and his courage to stand firm even when threatened during times of cultural opposition. His voice carried clarity and conviction, always pointing to Christ and letting God’s word speak for itself. While recognizing his humanity and imperfections, they honor him as a trailblazer whose ministry built churches filled with a love for truth and whose legacy transcended denominational and theological boundaries. His life and preaching serve as a reminder that God delights in using faithful but flawed people to advance His glory, leaving a legacy that will continue to influence generations to come.

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Ep. 355 - Processing the Deadly Shooting of Charlie Kirk Sep 10, 2025

Show notes

We are heartbroken over the tragic news of Charlie Kirk’s passing. Tune in as we remember his life and share words of comfort during this difficult time. Please keep Charlie’s family in your prayers. What a comfort it is to know that Charlie boldly proclaimed Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection, often declaring, “Jesus saved my life, and the resurrection is the centerpiece of everything I believe.” Today, Charlie is with the Lord in glory. May this heartbreaking loss serve as a sobering reminder that death comes for us all, and that the gospel is our only hope in a lost and broken world.

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The Errors of Artificial Intelligence and the Elimination of Critical Thinking. - Highlight Episode 357 Sep 09, 2025

Show notes

Artificial intelligence is transforming the way people think, learn, and trust information, but it also raises significant questions about truth and authority. Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar welcome Cal Smith from AIG Canada to discuss both the promises and risks of AI, noting that while it can be helpful for research and everyday tasks, its reliability depends on the quality of the data it uses and should not be accepted without question. Cal explains how applying logic, mathematics, and observational science often reveals contradictions in mainstream thinking, emphasizing the need for believers to protect their God-given gift of critical thinking. The conversation highlights how society has moved from books to Google to AI, with each step diminishing discernment, and stresses that Christians must stay grounded in Scripture. Ultimately, the message is that AI can be a helpful tool, but it should never replace faith, truth, or the transformative power of the gospel.

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Ep. 354 - What Does “Retirement” Look Like for Christians? Sep 04, 2025

Show notes

Retirement, from a Christian perspective, is not an exit from purpose but a shift into a new season of service. Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar stress that retirement should be about stewarding time, talents, treasure, and testimony. Christians never take a vacation from their calling, and life continues to hold meaning in every stage. Many suffer after leaving their career because they’ve tied their identity to a profession. Still, believers are called to stay disciplined—remaining in the Word, sharing the gospel, and praying for wisdom and energy. Examples abound of retired believers who dedicate their lives to outreach, discipleship, and evangelism, proving that as long as one is alive, God is not finished with their work.

For younger believers, preparing financially for retirement is wise stewardship. Planning ahead isn’t about accumulating wealth but about equipping oneself to serve God and others without financial obstacles. Saving early and consistently allows Christians to use their later years to bless others through leadership, generosity, and active ministry. The guys note that tools such as 401(k) plans, employer matches, and Roth IRAs make it easy to start. Developing the discipline to save regularly is like strengthening a muscle—over time, it becomes second nature. Debt, especially high-interest debt, should be avoided whenever possible, and paying it off quickly frees believers to give and serve without financial bondage.

Ultimately, retirement should be approached with intentionality and purpose. The call is to earn as much as possible so one can give as much as possible, to live with open hands, and to invest in eternity. Believers are encouraged to plan their later years with the same focus they apply to their career goals—asking how they will spend their time advancing the Kingdom. This stage of life offers opportunities to serve in ways that might not have been possible before, such as investing in younger generations, mentoring others, and meeting needs within the community and the church.

Time, like money, belongs to God. It can be wasted, spent, or invested, and Christians are called to redeem it for what truly matters. The world is full of people in need—lonely individuals in hospitals, neighbors who have never heard the gospel, and children searching for role models. Believers should stay active in service, surrounded by others who speak truth into their lives. As long as there is breath, there is purpose. Retirement is not the end but a continuation of the race, run with urgency, faithfulness, and an eternal perspective.

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