The Mighty Oaks Podcast

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Mighty Oaks International – Peru Mission Oct 23, 2023

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By Ian Hunter, During our week-long mission trip with Mighty Oaks International in Peru, we were approached by local law enforcement and military leaders to assist them with Resiliency and Recovery efforts. Our journey began in Lima, where we visited five different districts. Our meetings ranged from new law enforcement recruits to seasoned officers of the Peruvian special police forces, including those involved in hostage rescue, riot control, and the battle against warlords and drug cartels. As we arrived at our first location, I wasn't sure how open they would be to hearing about our faith. However, it became evident that the Lord was with us, opening doors for us to share the significance of our faith as a vital source of life and hope. I found myself speaking to young recruits about why it's crucial to not only pray for physical protection but also to understand that in Psalms 91, God is not only sovereign over our physical bodies but primarily concerned about our hearts. He serves as our refuge and protection, whether we're facing battles against human trafficking or spiritual warfare. Psalms 91:4-5 resonates deeply in these situations: "He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart. You will not fear the terror of night, nor the arrow that flies by day." This passage encapsulates the idea of seeking refuge and protection in God's presence, not just in physical struggles but in all facets of life. Our faith provides strength and solace in times of trouble, and it was a privilege to share this message with those we met during our mission. I believe that our testimonies and messages may have touched their hearts, offering them a new perspective on their personal and professional challenges. These missions serve as a reminder of the positive impact that faith and support can have on the lives of those facing difficult circumstances. No matter what nation I have found myself in front of, there are two things we have in common. First, God quickly revealed brothers and sisters in Christ. Even though I don't speak Spanish, our shared knowledge of the Word allowed us to build a strong bond. It was a powerful testament to the unifying force of faith. Second, the reality of sin's presence and its impact on everyone, believer and nonbeliever alike, transcends borders. This universal struggle highlights the need for spiritual support and resilience, regardless of our cultural or linguistic differences. James 1:22-25 serves as a guiding principle for our mission: "Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like someone who looks at his face in a mirror and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. But whoever looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues in it—not forgetting what they have heard, but doing it—they will be blessed in what they do." As the days passed, we witnessed God's hand at work, opening doors to various law enforcement departments. We had the incredible opportunity to visit these departments, praying over the officials in their offices. It was an honor to stand before 500 Peruvian Army soldiers, positioned alongside the Peruvian National Psychologist for an in-depth discussion. The atmosphere was charged with a palpable sense of purpose. During this session, we were privileged to take part in a seminar that meticulously unraveled the layers of resiliency. Drawing from my personal journey of two decades in the US military, I shared my testimony, which was punctuated with numerous spiritual and trauma-laden experiences. It was a moment of vulnerability and connection, as I sought to convey the profound impact faith had on my resilience. In our discussions, we delved into the foundational principles that underpin resiliency within military co...

You’re Not Unique Oct 10, 2023

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By, Gabe DeLaRosa A Couple of weeks ago we had a group of warriors that attended the Mighty Oaks Legacy Program in Haymarket, VA. As we spent the week together it was evident that most of the men attending were dealing with the usual issues that men deal with throughout their day. Issues like being angry over things that are out of their control. Other things also included stress, anxiety, and thoughts of complete failure in their lives. As these warriors go through classes and small group discussions, they soon realize that they are not alone, and many have very similar experiences. Almost like someone called ahead of them to brief the class on their specific issues. The one thing is certain though as they get to hear the gospel throughout the week, the commonality is needing a relationship with God. Fighting things on our own without God in our lives makes for quite a mess. These warriors learn that we cannot depend on the things of this world as they tend to fail us without God in our lives. The Gospel tells us very clearly: 1 John 2:15-17 "Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world—the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride of life—is not from the Father but is from the world. And the world is passing away along with its desires, but whoever does the will of God abides forever." TO LEARN MORE ABOUT MIGHTY OAKS & OUR PROGRAMS CLICK HERE

I Thought I Was Alone Oct 09, 2023

Show notes

By Jamie Warner, September hosted a Women's Legacy Program in Ohio, a First Responders Program in Texas, and two Men’s Legacy Programs, one in California and one in Virginia. We who work for Mighty Oaks Foundation are all too familiar with the life transformation that is possible through surrendering oneself to Jesus and aligning your life to the life in which we are created to live. There is so much power in hearing a person’s story of redemption and transformation, that we asked Jake Della Pia, who attended the Legacy Program in Haymarket, Virginia, and would be honored to share his with you. Jake, what were your thoughts prior to attending the Men’s Legacy Program? “I was excited but scared. The night before I left, I called my parents saying I didn’t want to go. I then drank from my house all the way to the airport in Washington, DC. I said to myself, give Mighty Oaks a try and if it doesn’t do anything then come home and commit suicide.” What are your thoughts or reactions to how the session went for you? “I thought I was alone. I thought I was the only guy going through substance abuse and thoughts of suicide. I soon discovered, the first day, that I was among good company. I thought all the lessons were created specifically for me. I finally could put names to some of the issues I was dealing with and how to deal with them. “The first two days I cried my eyes out. I watched a video of a widow talking about her deceased husband killing himself because he felt like a burden to his family. All I saw was me in that story. That dude was me, I imagined. I felt the same way. I cried for two straight hours. But now, I know those thoughts are lies. I am more than drugs and alcohol. My past doesn’t define me.” Moving forward, what are your plans or purpose? “I’ve created a Legacy Plan for continued success. I have multiple cornermen identified. I have a plan in place and resources to combat substance abuse. I recommitted my life to making Him Lord of my life. I will leave a legacy my daughter can be proud of.” Any final thoughts? “This place stopped my downward spiral. It has saved my life. I’ve been baptized an commit my life to walking my path with God. I know that I will have trials and tribulations again, but because of God and Mighty Oaks, I have the tools to live abundantly. “All I can say is ‘Thank you.’ This saved my life.” And all we at MOF can say is, Amen! And thank you, Lord, for this and all of the thousands of stories of restoration and transformation You have written! And thank you to all of you who so tirelessly pray, give, and support Mighty Oaks in so many ways. We could not do it without you (nor would we want to)! TO LEARN MORE ABOUT MIGHTY OAKS FOUNDATION CLICK HERE

stop fighting! Sep 21, 2023

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By Terry Cockrell Cease striving and know that I am God.... Psalm 46:10 As the men began arriving to SkyRose Ranch in San Miguel, California, on the 4th of September 2023, to begin a Men's Legacy Program week, most of them did not know what to expect. Some having attended other programs were hoping to get started and get it done. A “check-in-the-box.” Many were inadvertently sizing one another up and keeping their conversations at a very superficial level. Most of the veterans and first responders that attend Legacy Programs have been long striving against darkness, hopelessness, isolation, depression, and feel they have no way out of the cycle that affects them and their families. Upon arriving at the ranch, many were showing all this in their faces and in their demeanor, but Hope was on the way! As the week kicked off with an icebreaker, the men found that they indeed were not alone or unique in their struggles. They began to find some commonalities with each other, and as the first day progressed, they began to open up a little more. Some even began smiling for the first time. As the team leaders and staff began to share their testimonies and teach classes, the men began to see there is a Hope, and His name is Jesus. Psalm 31:24 Be strong and let your heart take courage, all you who hope in the Lord. The men began to learn that sincere hope and the answer to what they were facing in life could be found in a relationship with Jesus. Romans 8:35 Who will separate us from the love of Christ? Will tribulation, distress, or persecution, or famine or nakedness, or peril, or sword? The men also learned that nothing that they have done in the past or are currently doing them can separate them from the love and mercy and forgiveness of Christ Jesus. The week ended with several of the men making first time decisions to follow Christ, some to renew their relationship with Christ, and 8 men were baptized! The classes the team leaders and staff shared with them also allowed the Warriors to see where the staff once were, and where they are now, and that a total life transformation is possible with Jesus. To end the week, a wonderful last meal was had, and all the once heavy-hearted men were now laughing, sharing stories, and enjoying each other’s company. The men had learned how to cease striving, and to stop and listen to God. After a week of classes and hearing one another’s stories and being open and honest with themselves and their teammates, joy had once again returned to their lives, and they look forward to a new life in Christ. TO LEARN MORE ABOUT MIGHTY OAKS FOUNDATION & OUR PROGRAMS CLICK HERE

Mighty Oaks International Update – September 2023 Sep 15, 2023

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Mighty Oaks International Update Ukraine Sep 23, 2023 Mighty Oaks International recently completed a highly successful 14-day mission in Ukraine, featuring a team consisting of 2 full-time staff and 2 strategic contractors integral to the organization. The primary objective was to conduct International Chaplain Training, which resulted in the graduation of 25 Ukrainian chaplains and 10 fitness trainers. These dedicated chaplains routinely serve on the front lines, delivering the message of resiliency and hope to soldiers fighting for their nation's freedom. Additionally, the team supported coaches who provided physical therapy to soldiers while introducing them to the Gospel. During our training sessions, a wide range of crucial topics were covered, including suicide prevention, the importance of brotherhood and discipline, addressing the truth about PTSD, recognizing our common enemy, learning how to be a warrior in Christ, and understanding one's purpose. In addition to these vital subjects, each instructor also shared their personal testimony, providing valuable insights and inspiration to the participants. This mission marked the inaugural collaboration between Mighty Oaks International and Sports Catalyst, significantly expanding the reach and influence in the training and equipping of chaplains and coaches. Much like the National Legacy Program, this mission revealed that many chaplains and coaches were initially burdened by pain and grief but experienced a transformation, culminating in shared joy and unity by the end of the training. As Christians, our focus is on delivering the Gospel message to the soldiers and civilians of Ukraine, recognizing their profound need for spiritual guidance and support. In our mission, we set aside political considerations and firmly adhere to the principle outlined in Mark 16:15, which states, "Go into all the world and preach the Good News to everyone."The people of Ukraine are engaged in an ongoing struggle, both spiritually and physically, as they confront the challenges of everyday life in a conflict-ridden region. It is our firm belief that it is of utmost importance to extend the love of Christ to them, offering solace and hope in the midst of their battles. The commitment to our work in Ukraine extends far beyond the current conflict, recognizing that the need for support and guidance will persist long after the war concludes. Mighty Oaks International remains dedicated to maintaining a sustained presence in Ukraine, with a primary focus on training and equipping chaplains to effectively minister to their military personnel. By doing so, we aim to prevent Ukrainian service members from encountering the same emotional and spiritual challenges that many US service members and first responders often face. Our long-term presence in Ukraine underscores our unwavering commitment to nurturing the well-being of those who serve and ensuring they receive the spiritual support necessary for their continued resilience and strength. Mighty Oaks International is actively preparing for future missions to Ukraine, with the goal of extending the reach to more chaplains and providing them with the necessary training to carry out the Mighty Oaks International mission in regions that may be challenging to access otherwise. Indeed, this ongoing commitment reaffirms Mighty Oaks International's unwavering dedication to expanding the impact and providing essential support to those in need within Ukraine. TO LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR MIGHTY OAKS INTERNATIONAL PROGRAMS CLICK HERE

My Way Or His “High” Way Sep 11, 2023

Show notes

By Pete Lawrence This previous week in Texas nearly twenty veterans and first responders arrived from across the United States seeking hope. Men who have been shackled by shame and guilt. We live in a world where culture tells us to “live your truth” and that there are “numerous paths to God”. Yet every session we see that living “our” way fails and leaves us searching out something to fill this void so many men speak of. Jesus tells the disciples in John 14:6 that only through him is there salvation and a relationship with God. Your way, my way, and the world’s way will only lead to ruin and death. John 14:6 ESV "Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." On day one in the video “I Am Second,” Mighty Oaks founder Chad Robichaux specifically says that if we leave God out of our plans, we are setting ourselves up for failure. When we look at Legacy Plans (what we want our legacy to be) it is paramount that the number one thing we need to be fighting for is our relationship with God. By aligning ourselves with God and diligently walking in a relationship with him, only then can we be the men that God has called us to be. We try to fill these voids in our lives with stuff, fill our time with fruitless pursuits of temporary joy, and so many numb this abyss with drugs or alcohol. Yet, when we walk out our faith, we find purpose in God’s plan for us. When we submit to God and kill our foolish desires, his eternal joy fills us. Men who were lost, find a new eternal purpose, one that does not shift with the winds of culture but is rooted in the truth of the sovereign Lord. During the week, the men are given the tools to align their lives with God’s will. We are told to walk out and live in the Four Be’s. Be in the Word Be in prayer Be in fellowship at your local church Be in communication with your cornerman In a prior life, I was a comm (Communications) Marine. I know the importance of having that one-on-one correspondence. By Being in the Word, God talks to us through his truth. A truth that has not changed in thousands of years. We communicate with God by Being in Prayer. It is time to bring superior firepower and wage war against a culture that has shackled you with shame. Proverbs 24:6 tells us that by “wise guidance” we can wage war: the need-to-know God’s truth. In an “abundance of counselors there is victory” highlights the importance of Being at a strong Christian church and in fellowship. By Being in communication with our cornerman we can see the weak spots in our fight against the enemy and have someone to hold us accountable to our Legacy Plans to ensure we don’t take shortcuts or have flexible standards. Proverbs 24:6 ESV For by wise guidance you can wage your war, and in abundance of counselors there is victory. For many of you, your way led to your poor choices, an empty void you tried to fill with things of the world. So, if it has been a few days or a few months since you attended Mighty Oaks, I am calling you out to “wage war” against our common enemy, to stand in the gap, and to be the man that God called you to be. Align yourself with God and find that time tomorrow morning to be in the word and to be in prayer. Be in His truth and not of this world. In Christ we have hope -- hope of restoration and salvation through a relationship with God. A hope rooted in His eternal truth and not that of the world.

Focus In The Midst Of A Storm Sep 05, 2023

Show notes

By Rachel Schroeder, Psalm 18:1-7 | “1 I love you, O Lord, my strength. 2 The Lord is my rock, my fortress, and my deliverer, my God, my rock in whom I take refuge, my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.” In August 2023, a team of Mighty Oaks  Women’s Program leaders came together at California’s SkyRose Ranch to share with a group of women, from all over the US, what God has done in their lives and the hope that is only found in Jesus. Attending a weeklong session for both leaders and students is not always easy, especially when we see the enemy beginning to attack weeks, if not months, before a session is to start. This can leave leaders with feelings of being empty and they will often have doubts of being able to help others. Participants may come with hesitance, fear of the unknown, and questioning if the program is even worth their time. Not to mention, they may struggle with doubts as to whether they will even have the energy needed to get through the week because many are carrying not only their pain, trauma, and lack of self-worth, but may also be carrying the trauma of someone else, like a spouse. Focus is what we must pray for. To focus on what the Holy Spirit has us as leaders pour into someone that comes so broken and without hope. We must pray for participants and for focus that is needed to trust, engage, and to completely open up to complete strangers about their deepest fears and chaos that can come from years of trauma. “3 I call upon the Lord, who is worthy to be praised, so I shall be saved from my enemies. 4 The chords of death encompassed me; the torrents of perdition assailed me; 5 The cords of Sheol entangled me; the snares of death confronted me.” Coming together with chaos can make someone feel as if they are in a middle of a storm without shelter to protect them from the distractions, destruction, and devastation they see all around them. Without the hope of forgiveness and reconciliation, they can be left feeling as if they have lost everything and are stuck out in the middle of a storm and all alone. “6 In my distress. I call upon the Lord; to my God I cried for help. From His temple he heard my voice, and my cry to him reached his ears.” We read in Psalm 18 of a very active God in heaven and about a man who is eager and who is wanting complete healing to carry out God's will and the work God has for his life. We are reminded that God is our rock, our fortress, and our deliverer and the one we can depend on.  We are reminded that when we call on Him in our despair, He will hear us and listen to our cries. His word reminds us that He is active and comes to our rescue. The description in Scripture is like an emergency vehicle with lights and sirens rushing into a chaotic scene to help whoever has cried out for help. “7 then the earth reeled and rocked; the foundations also of the mountains trembled and quaked, because he was angry.” Here we are given a depiction of the supernatural help and deliverance God brings to us. We may not see it when we are in the chaos, but God’s deliverance can always be seen clearly once the storm has passed. Sometimes we need the struggle-that storm, that chaos, to be able to see God and grow in our faith as we continue to walk forward with him. We must take our focus off the chaos we are in and place It on God, who is our one and only refuge. We were able to see so much joy on the faces of the women as they prepared to go back home to face those storms with faith and a new perspective knowing that… GOD IS VICTORIOUS!!! TO LEARN MORE ABOUT MIGHTY OAKS AND OUR PROGRAMS CLICK HERE!

Powerful Faith Aug 15, 2023

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By, Brandon Bettis Adjusting to civilian life after the intensity of military or public service can be an arduous journey, leaving many men feeling lost and struggling to find hope. However, Mighty Oaks Legacy Programs serve as a beacon of strength and solace for countless veterans and first responders, guiding them toward hope, purpose, and a renewed sense of legacy. The men who attended the Legacy Program in San Miguel, California, learned how a personal relationship with God empowers them to find hope and inspires them to continue fighting for their legacy using the 4Bs (Be in the Word, Be in Prayer, Be in Community/Fellowship, Be in Contact with Cornerman). 1. Finding Hope in the Midst of Darkness: The transition to civilian life and a new identity can be overwhelming for participants before they arrive to a Legacy Program session, causing feelings of isolation and despair. Scripture (BE IN THE WORD) offers a source of hope by emphasizing that even in the darkest moments, God's love and grace are always present. Verses such as Psalm 34:18 ("The Lord is near to those who have a broken heart, and saves such as have a contrite spirit") and Isaiah 41:10 ("Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, Yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand") resonate deeply with veterans and first responders, reminding them that they are not alone in their struggles. 2. Healing from Trauma with Faith: Combat from war or trauma from working the front lines of civil service can often leave veterans and first responders with deep emotional scars, and the journey to healing can be long and challenging. Mighty Oaks encourages our nation’s Warriors to renew their faith as a source of healing. In Philippians 4:6-7, students are reminded to bring their anxieties and burdens to God in prayer (BE IN PRAYER), finding peace that surpasses all understanding. By entrusting their pain to a loving God, students can begin to find healing and restoration, allowing them to move forward with hope and purpose. 3. Embracing a New Purpose and Legacy: As veterans/first responders transition to civilian life, they may grapple with questions about their purpose and legacy. Our curriculum, backed by scripture, provides valuable guidance in this regard, emphasizing that every individual has a unique and meaningful purpose in God's plan. "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future" Jeremiah 29:11. Mighty Oaks leadership reminds each student that their service does not end, but rather extends where they can continue to make a positive impact in their communities and beyond (BE IN COMMUNITY/FELLOWSHIP). 4. Finding Strength in Brotherhood: Mighty Oaks encourages students to find strength in fellowship with other believers (BE IN CONTACT WITH CORNERMAN). Hebrews 10:24-25 emphasizes the importance of gathering together to encourage and support one another, providing a valuable network for graduates to lean on during challenging times. Mighty Oaks has Outposts spread across the country and many churches offer specific support groups for veterans, creating spaces where they can share their experiences and find camaraderie. The men that attended the Legacy Program last week at SkyRose Ranch in San Miguel, California, were struggling to find hope and purpose after their service, and Mighty Oaks offered a guiding light – a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Through its messages of hope, healing, and purpose, participants left with a renewed sense of strength to overcome the daily challenges they face. By leaning on their faith and embracing their unique legacy, graduates can continue to make a meaningful impact in their lives and the lives of others. As we honor their service, let us also acknowledge the power of the Holy Spirit in empowering veterans and first responders to find hope and to fi...

Pride goes with the fall Jul 28, 2023

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By, Derek Langway The time with our veterans in Bull Run, Virginia, last week was amazing! Despite torrential rains, worse weather in the forecast, threatening airline delays, and cancelled flights, we saw a marked improvement when our 11 students were on deck. The short time between Memorial day and 4th of July feels like spring showers have transitioned into summer sun with red, white, and blue going up on every porch. As veterans, we are proud of our country, our service, and our sacrifice, but when does this pride turn into something unhealthy? Proverbs 16:18 | Pride comes before disaster, and arrogance before a fall. 1 John 2:16 | For all that is in the world—the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride of life—is not from the Father but is from the world. There is hope, and his name is Jesus. Proverbs 13:10 | Where there is strife, there is pride, but wisdom is found in those who take advice. The men who gathered with us took that courageous step toward overcoming their prideful stance and coming more inline with Christ. We thank them for their service and pray they stay on course as they transition into this next season of their lives. TO LEARN MORE ABOUT MIGHTY OAKS AND OUR PROGRAMS CLICK HERE!

THE BIGGEST FIGHT IS WITHIN Jul 26, 2023

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By Dusty Shelhammer James 1:2-4 Consider it a sheer gift, friends, when tests and challenges come at you from all sides. You know that under pressure, your faith-life is forced into the open and shows your true colors. So don’t try to get out of anything prematurely. Let it do its work so you become mature and well developed, not deficient in any way. As we kick off the First Responder Program at SkyRose Ranch in California, 18 first responders gather to possibly engage in the fight of their life: spirituality and manhood as God designed. These men have had the highest level of training to save lives and property this country has to offer, but unfortunately the training to fight to save themselves and their families has been left out. The first night begins with uncertainty. As first responders are trained to do, they start to assess the scene, looking for hidden dangers and trying to gather a plan of attack. And man-oh-man, they are about to get attacked! Not the external attack they are used, and probably expecting, but the internal turmoil of taking off the defensive shield they have put up in the years of serving their communities. 2 Timothy 1:7 For God has not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind. The core of this program is not “come have a seat and let us fix you.” This program is the exact reflection of John 5:8, “pick up your mat and walk.” These men will be exposed to the grace and glory of our Lord and will be given the tools to carry on a successful mission in life. A mission of leading their families, managing their household, and building a legacy for their children and other men coming up the same path. As these men unpack a lifetime of “slow drip” trauma, they start to see that the biggest hurdle in their healing is inside them: The price of the false image they have built to hide the impurities in their character. These men unpack their emotional rucksacks this week, spilling out what they have held in until now and filling their hearts with the love of Christ. This week is safety, friendship, and fellowship. These men have shared their hearts exposed, their fears, and by the grace of God’s peace committed their life to healing what has taken a lifetime to break. Some of these men have made a huge step of faith and given their life to Christ. But the fight has just begun. As they travel home, the troubles they left behind are waiting for them. Although, they now have the tools to help them fight: The “4 Be’s” - Be in the Word! Be in Prayer! Be in Fellowship! Be in touch with your cornermen. These tools will help them fight, but the biggest fight is within. TO LEARN MORE ABOUT MIGHTY OAKS AND OUR PROGRAMS CLICK HERE!

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