Generated by All in One SEO Pro v4.9.10, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site. # Pete Briscoe Pete Briscoe ministers to pastors & organizational executives through personalized, professional coaching. Find powerful Christian coaching with Life in Christ. ## Sitemaps - [XML Sitemap](https://www.petebriscoe.org/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website. ## Posts - [Finding Peace This Election](https://www.petebriscoe.org/finding-peace-this-election/) - God votes through people. Your vote will be part of the process that puts the person that God is choosing in office. So, take your vote seriously. - [From Patriarchy to Partnership—Episode 15](https://www.petebriscoe.org/from-patriarchy-to-partnership-episode-15/) - Pete Briscoe explains the biblical support for a dynamic partnership between women and men in the home and church setting. - [Did the Father Forsake the Son on the Cross?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/did-the-father-forsake-the-son-on-the-cross/) - It is Saturday so I find myself writing again. This time I want to address something that has changed theologically for me. Let’s start with a question. Did the Father forsake the Son on the cross? On April 2-4, 2012, in a three part blog posted on the Gospel Coalition site, Thabiti Anyabwile argued that - [The Incredible Shrinking Room—Episode 14](https://www.petebriscoe.org/the-incredible-shrinking-room-episode-14/) - History has told a continuous story of patriarchy–of women suppressed, oppressed, devalued, and silenced. Much of this oppression has occurred in the church. - [Patriarchal Regrets—Episode 13](https://www.petebriscoe.org/patriarchal-regrets-episode-13/) - In this episode, Pete addresses how patriarchy damages the family and examines the history of what historians call the “cult of domesticity.” - [The Art and Joy of Civil Conversation—Episode 12](https://www.petebriscoe.org/the-art-and-joy-of-civil-conversation-episode-12/) - In a world where winning is paramount, having a mutually beneficial conversation with someone we disagree with is a lost art. Here are 10 strategies to help! - [Dispossessed—Episode 11](https://www.petebriscoe.org/dispossessed-episode-11/) - Many of us have been “shown the door” by our evangelical friends. This dispossession is painful and difficult to understand. Let's unpack this together! - [Evolutionary Creationism—Episode 10](https://www.petebriscoe.org/evolutionary-creationism-episode-10/) - Is evolution true? Is it possible to be a Christian and believe in evolution? Is the earth 6000 years old or 4.3 billion years old? How do we know? - [The Gospel of Grace](https://www.petebriscoe.org/the-gospel-of-grace/) - In this 5-day reading plan, Pete Briscoe encourages you to consider what matters most in the Christian life… the Gospel of Grace! - [Messy Made New](https://www.petebriscoe.org/messy-made-new/) - Through His Spirit living in us as believers, Jesus invites messy people to Him, makes them new, and pours new life into them. - [Forgive Me—Episode 9](https://www.petebriscoe.org/forgive-me-episode-9/) - In this episode, Pete discusses what to do instead of flippantly asking someone to forgive you after you’ve done something hurtful. - [Church Stuff—Episode 8](https://www.petebriscoe.org/church-stuff-episode-8/) - The church is struggling. People are leaving. Is there any hope for the church moving forward? Zach Lambert points ways forward for the church. - [After Evangelicalism—Episode 7](https://www.petebriscoe.org/after-evangelicalism-episode-7/) - Setting out on a journey with no destination is an unnatural thing to do. It is unsettling and we feel ungrounded.Welcome to unnatural land… - [The Fundamental Shift—Episode 6](https://www.petebriscoe.org/the-fundamental-shift-episode-6/) - Having love as the primary essence of human flourishing should be our focus, and if we never get around to the second thing, then we have not lost much. - [Getting Past Religious Rules](https://www.petebriscoe.org/getting-past-religious-rules/) - Are you ruled by rules or by your relationship with Jesus? Pete Briscoe teaches we need to shelf our religious rules and use love to introduce people to Christ. - [Where is this Podcast Going?—Episode 5.5](https://www.petebriscoe.org/where-is-this-podcast-going-episode-5-5/) - Pete will answer these questions: Can you define evangelicalism?” “Do you hate evangelicals now?” and “Why are you leading people astray?” - [Omelas—Episode 5](https://www.petebriscoe.org/omelas-episode-5/) - Wonder why your kids left the church? Partially because, like the story, they saw a ‘child in the closet,’ and their consciences wouldn’t allow them to stay. - [Resonate—Episode 4](https://www.petebriscoe.org/resonate-episode-4/) - Pete talks about the aspects of evangelicalism that still resonate with him. For those asking for a ‘doctrinal statement," you’ll Kinda-get one. - [Journeys—Episode 3](https://www.petebriscoe.org/journeys-episode-3/) - Life is a journey with roots to trip over, dropoffs to avoid, and steep hills to traverse. It can be hard. It can feel lonely too. - [Simple Faith](https://www.petebriscoe.org/simple-faith/) - Faith is a well-worn word among Christians. In this 5-day reading plan, Pete Briscoe describes what faith is and how it expresses itself in our lives. Day 1 An Eye Toward Faithfulness As I look back over fifty years of ministry, I recall innumerable tests, trials, and times of crushing pain. But through it all, - [Death](https://www.petebriscoe.org/death/) - Death still stings. It hurts like hell. There is a ripping apart of intertwined hearts, a separation of mingled souls, a grief that knows no bounds. - [The House—Episode 1](https://www.petebriscoe.org/episode-1/) - I’m convinced there's a better way to walk with Jesus than what evangelicalism is offering. There are better and more beautiful ways to live the Christian life. - [What Happened to Pete?—Episode 2](https://www.petebriscoe.org/what-happened-to-pete-briscoe-episode-2/) - I’m telling you about my journey because it's one of the reasons I no longer think of myself as an evangelical.This is what happened to me. - [Are You Pleasing God or Trusting Him?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/are-you-pleasing-god-or-trusting-him/) - Do you live the Christian life pleasing God or trusting God? Can you guess which option leads to freedom and life enjoyed in Christ? - [The Father Loves You](https://www.petebriscoe.org/the-father-loves-you/) - Pete Briscoe draws our attention to the God who satisfies all our longings for love—highlighting how Scripture reveals Him to be our good and perfect Father. - [Jesus Is Better](https://www.petebriscoe.org/jesus-is-better/) - Is knowing God really that complicated an endeavor? In this reading plan, you’ll discover there is a better way—a true way—to gain access to God. - [Rethink Prayer](https://www.petebriscoe.org/rethink-prayer/) - Have you ever thought about how prayer relates to who you are in Christ? IPete Briscoe explores how you can experience prayer in a fresh, new, life-giving way. - [You Are Perfectly Incapable](https://www.petebriscoe.org/you-are-perfectly-incapable/) - Has God ever asked you to do something you feel is beyond your capabilities? Are you willing to step into what God’s inviting you to? - [Enduring Marriage](https://www.petebriscoe.org/enduring-marriage/) - Fight or flight? What choice will you make when it comes to your marriage? Pete gives biblical insight for couples who want to fight for an enduring marriage. - [Don't Walk Away From Your Marriage](https://www.petebriscoe.org/dont-walk-away-from-your-marriage/) - Marriage is hard. Pete examines the challenges all married couples face and shares how Jesus wants to breathe life and love into your marriage! - [Living Like God Intended](https://www.petebriscoe.org/living-like-god-intended/) - Does following Jesus ever feel exhausting? Pete Briscoe will introduce you to a beautiful and soul-satisfying truth—to live like God intended. - [Freedom For Rule Breakers](https://www.petebriscoe.org/freedom-for-rule-breakers/) - There’s a tension between living under the law or living under grace. Pete Briscoe addresses how this affects our freedom in Christ. - [Spiritual Warfare](https://www.petebriscoe.org/spiritual-warfare/) - The forces of evil are real, and they can petrify us, but a simple truth can give us hope. Pete Briscoe explains the power that’s available to us. - [My Body Image](https://www.petebriscoe.org/my-body-image/) - Do you have a negative view of your body? Pete Briscoe shares how God views us and offers a new and better way to think about our bodies. - [Letting Go Of Pride](https://www.petebriscoe.org/letting-go-of-pride/) - We live in a world that categorizes people. Pete Briscoe shares what the bible says about treating people differently and asks you to examine your heart. - [I’m Starting A Podcast](https://www.petebriscoe.org/im-starting-a-podcast/) - Better ideas, fresh thinkers, and beautiful ways of living the Christian life exist. I will talk about them, and I invite you to listen. - [Identity Defined](https://www.petebriscoe.org/identity-defined/) - How do you see yourself? Pete Briscoe teaches us what the Bible says about our new identity in Christ that, if we grasp it, will change our reality today! - [Am I Beyond Forgiveness?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/am-i-beyond-forgiveness/) - Do you ever wonder if your sins are unforgivable? Pete Briscoe tells us what the Bible says about our sins, God, and the extent of His forgiveness. - [Easter | Experiencing Christ in Everyday Life](https://www.petebriscoe.org/easter-experiencing-christ-in-everyday-life/) - Pete Briscoe walks you through Jesus’ final days on Earth and shares how you can experience the impact of Christ’s resurrection in your everyday life. - [You Can't Lose Your Salvation](https://www.petebriscoe.org/you-cant-lose-your-salvation/) - Have you ever feared that God might change His mind about you? Pete explains why you can rest assured that God’s promise to you will last forever. - [You Belong](https://www.petebriscoe.org/you-belong/) - Do you ever feel as if you don’t belong in God’s family? What does it mean to be a member of God’s family? And how can I have confidence that I belong? - [I Feel Inadequate](https://www.petebriscoe.org/i-feel-inadequate/) - Peteshares how our earthly limitations never hinder what God wants to accomplish through us. We can be confident that if God has called us—He’ll equip us. - [5 Money Myths](https://www.petebriscoe.org/5-money-myths/) - Pete Briscoe dispels five myths concerning our beliefs about money and how God wants us to experience a trustworthy source of joy and happiness. - [Spiritual Growth](https://www.petebriscoe.org/spiritual-growth/) - Why do so many of us stay infants in our faith? Pete challenges us to move on from the milk of infancy and to feast on the real meat of Spiritual maturity. - [New Covenant Living](https://www.petebriscoe.org/new-covenant-living/) - Do you know the difference between the Old and New Covenant? New Covenant living is letting the Holy Spirit guide and direct us into the life He has for us. - [Freedom from Guilt & Shame](https://www.petebriscoe.org/freedom-from-guilt-shame/) - Is there sin in your past that keeps you from being intimate with God? Find freedom from the guilt, shame, and embarrassment that come from sin today! - [God Has Given You an A](https://www.petebriscoe.org/god-has-given-you-an-a/) - Do you feel the need to perform in order to earn His favor and approval? Do you think your past disqualifies you from God's love? God has given you an A+! - [Lies That Can Ruin a Marriage](https://www.petebriscoe.org/lies-that-can-ruin-a-marriage/) - What are the eight lies that can devastate a marriage? Read on to learn how to guard against them and fight to protect your marriage. - [Overcoming Worry](https://www.petebriscoe.org/overcoming-worry/) - The world is not as it’s meant to be! But rather than walk with fear through a fallen world, you can hold fast to the promises of Jesus. Want to know how? - [Dying Without Fear](https://www.petebriscoe.org/dying-without-fear/) - Is it possible to face death and not be afraid? Discover the answer that will equip you with the biblical truth you need to face death without fear. - [Choosing to Lose Wins in Marriage](https://www.petebriscoe.org/choosing-to-lose-wins-in-marriage/) - Do you always insist on winning arguments and getting your own way in your marriage? Pride must go. Choose second place instead! - [Dancing in Freedom of Grace](https://www.petebriscoe.org/dancing-in-freedom-of-grace/) - The Christian life is a dance, not a march of rule-keeping. Learn the difference between marching to earn God’s love and dancing in the grace He freely gives. - [Overpowering Temptation](https://www.petebriscoe.org/overpowering-temptation/) - When you become a new creation in Christ, everything possible for Christ becomes possible for you…even overpowering temptation. - [Secure Salvation](https://www.petebriscoe.org/secure-salvation/) - Do you believe your salvation is secure? Or do you worry you might lose it? You can have faith and trust that God will keep His promise of salvation - [The Promise Of Rest](https://www.petebriscoe.org/the-promise-of-rest/) - Are you feeling consumed by your work and home schedules? Do you struggle with anxiety and sleepless nights instead of finding rest? God invites us to rest. But true rest requires us to trust God. In this 5-day reading plan, Pete Briscoe teaches about God’s promise of rest. Day 1 Rest on all sides While - [You’re a Saint, Not a Sinner](https://www.petebriscoe.org/youre-a-saint-not-a-sinner/) - Are you a saint or a sinner? If you are a believer, you are now a saint. The way you view your identity will change the way you live. - [Love Your Enemy](https://www.petebriscoe.org/love-your-enemy/) - If you’re a believer, you’re called to love others. But what does God says about loving your enemies? And how do we do it? - [Stop Trying, Start Trusting](https://www.petebriscoe.org/stop-trying-start-trusting/) - Trying to please God can be exhausting. But the good news is that's not what He wants us to do! A life of trusting is what He desires! - [Avoiding Ministry Burnout](https://www.petebriscoe.org/avoiding-ministry-burnout/) - With 20+ years of pastoring, Pete offers advice on how pastors can protect their energy to get through isolation and navigate difficult seasons. - [Breaking the Spell](https://www.petebriscoe.org/breaking-the-spell/) - This pod is for you if you preach, teach, or talk a lot! Pete Briscoe discusses common mistakes preachers make and how to fix them. - [Decisions, Decisions…](https://www.petebriscoe.org/decisions-decisions/) - In my coaching we aren't looking for the “right” answers, we are trying to figure out how to navigate situations that seem to have no “right” answer. - [Where Do You Find Awe in Your Everyday Life?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/where-do-you-find-awe-in-your-everyday-life/) - I have learned that I need to mindfully look for the awe in the natural world, and in life. Where do you find awe in your everyday life? - [Does This Resonate With You?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/does-this-resonate-with-you/) - I saw this banner outside a church when we were in Charlestown, South Carolina. It struck me as beautiful. Does it resonate with you? - [Pastors…Preparation for Easter Sunday](https://www.petebriscoe.org/pastorspreparation-for-easter-sunday/) - This day is not about you. It is all about this guy who loved to distraction, served with grace, and sacrificed everything. Knowing this takes the pressure off. - [If You Have a Pastor You Care About, Please Read This…](https://www.petebriscoe.org/if-you-have-a-pastor-you-care-about-please-read-this/) - Your pastor loves you, serves you, and consider it a privilege and a calling to shepherd you. However, your pastor may also be weary and needs support. - [Authentic Identity with Pete](https://www.petebriscoe.org/authentic-identity-with-pete/) - I recently had a great conversation with my friend Kevin East on his podcast. Check it out here! - [The Fruit of God Is…](https://www.petebriscoe.org/the-fruit-of-god-is/) - Love… Joy… Peace… Patience… Kindness… Goodness… Faithfulness… Gentleness… Self-Control… Against such fruit there are no rules. (Gal. 5:22) If you want to know what God is like, this fruit is a great place to start. If it doesn’t look like this, it isn’t of God. If it looks like this, God is involved, through His - [Reflections on "The Making of Biblical Womanhood"](https://www.petebriscoe.org/reflections-on-the-making-of-biblical-womanhood/) - I’m reading Beth Allison Barr’s excellent book “The making of Biblical Womanhood.” It is stirring up so much in me. I’ve been a functional egalitarian (the belief that woman are equal to men and are free to exercise their gifts in the home and church) since listening to my Mother open the Word of God - [My First Interview as Real Pete](https://www.petebriscoe.org/my-first-interview-as-real-pete/) - Had a great chat with Rebecca Carrell and Liz Rodriguez about pastoring, health, RV life and the challenges of leadership. Check it out here! - [Small Is the New Big](https://www.petebriscoe.org/small-is-the-new-big/) - I’ve had an itch to write today, so here goes… After tomorrow my content (sermons, writings, some books, etc.) will no longer be available through Telling The Truth Media Ministry. In the history of the world this isn’t a big deal, at all. But I’m thinking about it because it is bringing stuff up for - [Theological Adjectives](https://www.petebriscoe.org/theological-adjectives/) - This morning, while walking Happy, I was listening to Dr. Peter Enns’ Podcast, “The Bible for normal people.” His guest was Cheryl B. Anderson. Dr. Anderson, was a trial lawyer in Washington DC for ten years before going to seminary to become a pastor. She was ordained in the Methodist church and started her pastoral - [What does Patrick Mahomes and the Apostle Paul have in common?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/what-does-patrick-mahomes-and-the-apostle-paul-have-in-common/) - Patrick Mahomes is a freak. Widely considered to be on an other-worldly trajectory, Mahomes is the young, brash, uber-talented quarterback of the Kansas City Chiefs. How uber-talented is he? Mahomes threw a pass to Tyreek Hill in a 2018 preseason game that traveled 68.6 yards in the air—the longest pass that’s ever been measured. Most - [On the Edges](https://www.petebriscoe.org/on-the-edges-2/) - Invariably, when I start one of my coaching FaceTime calls I hear this question from my client: “Where are you now?” This is because our house has wheels and Libby and I move around a lot! I think the next time the question is posed I might answer this way: I find myself on the ## Pages - [Home](https://www.petebriscoe.org/) - Hi friend, I'm Pete Briscoe. This is a place where I share the message of God’s unadulterated grace through my preaching sermons and Bible teaching. Take a look—and learn more about God’s abundant grace and love for you! I was the senior pastor of Bent Tree Bible Fellowship for nearly 30 years. Now, I coach - [Pete Briscoe Coaching](https://www.petebriscoe.org/coaching/) - About Pete Briscoe After serving as Pastor of Bent Tree Bible Fellowship in North Dallas for almost 30 years, and Leading Telling the Truth a multi-national media ministry for 10 years, Pete and his wife Libby left the pastorate, bought an RV, and started to travel. While visiting National Parks all over the country, Pete - [Cart](https://www.petebriscoe.org/cart/) - [Checkout](https://www.petebriscoe.org/checkout/) - [Donate](https://www.petebriscoe.org/donate/) - Your gift will help more people know Christ and live in the lavishness of his grace! Thank you for supporting the media outreach of Pete Briscoe. - [About](https://www.petebriscoe.org/about/) - Hi, I'm Pete Briscoe. I was the senior pastor of Bent Tree Bible Fellowship for nearly 30 years. Learn about me & the bible teaching resources available here. - [Podcast](https://www.petebriscoe.org/podcast/) - If you’re disgruntled with your religious upbringing but still love Jesus, or your kids have left the church, this podcast is for you! Listen today. - [Blog](https://www.petebriscoe.org/blog/) - Are you tired of the Christian march? Be encouraged and experience the freedom found in God’s grace as you read articles and reading plans by Pete Briscoe. - [Privacy Policy](https://www.petebriscoe.org/privacy-policy/) - Is this standard policy? We have drafted this document, which details how we gather and disseminate information, in an effort to demonstrate our strong commitment to online privacy. Please contact us if you have any questions about our privacy policy. Use of Internet Protocol Address We may use your Internet protocol (IP) address for several - [Home Old](https://www.petebriscoe.org/home-old/) - Find encouragement in God's Word through hundreds of video, audio and written Bible teaching resources by Pete Briscoe. Take a look! - [Messages](https://www.petebriscoe.org/messages/) - Watch or listen to hundreds of Bible-teaching sermons on video and audio by Pete Briscoe. Experience the freedom found in God’s grace today! - [Sign-up for daily email devotionals!](https://www.petebriscoe.org/facebook/) - Receive daily encouragement in God's Word in your inbox each morning from Pete Briscoe, and experience the freedom found in God’s grace! - [Sign-up for daily email devotionals!](https://www.petebriscoe.org/youversion/) - Interested in reading Christian devotionals? With Pete Briscoe, you get Bible-teaching resources that will encourage you in your walk with Christ each day. - [Devotionals](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/) - Interested in reading Christian devotionals? With Pete Briscoe, you get Bible-teaching resources that will encourage you on your walk with Christ each day. ## Testimonials - [Mark Saunders](https://www.petebriscoe.org/testimonial/mark-saunders/) - Pete Briscoe taught me how to preach… Even now, after 16 years of leading and preaching in my own context, I still write every sermon using the knowledge and tips I gleaned from Pete. If you are looking to hone your skills and take your preaching to another level, Pete’s your guy… - [Zach Lambert](https://www.petebriscoe.org/testimonial/zach-lambert/) - Pete is not only an exceptional preacher, he’s an exceptional coach of preachers… I can’t put a metric high enough to truly reflect how much I grew in skill and confidence during the time I worked with Pete. It doesn’t matter how long you’ve been preaching or at what level, Pete can help you take - [JoAnn Hummel](https://www.petebriscoe.org/testimonial/joann-hummel/) - What I learned from Pete has proven invaluable in pastoral ministry. As a woman, opportunities are rare to receive mentoring from a preacher of Pete Briscoe’s caliber. I encourage you to consider Pete as your personalized preaching coach. You will not be disappointed. - [Bruce Miller](https://www.petebriscoe.org/testimonial/bruce-miller/) - With 25 years of preaching under my belt, I was astounded at the help Pete Briscoe gave me…whether you are just starting to preach or have been doing it for decades, Pete will help you improve. - [Elizabeth C.](https://www.petebriscoe.org/testimonial/elizabeth-c/) - I started working with Pete after years of prioritizing work above almost everything else in my life. He helped me realize I needed to make some critical decisions to prevent going down potentially dangerous paths. Instead of offering general advice, he drilled down to understand my core beliefs, motivators, and areas where I was willing - [Dan Bedell](https://www.petebriscoe.org/testimonial/dan-bedell/) - I spent many years searching for a coach. I’m incredibly busy at work and I felt like I was lacking a clear plan for the way I wanted the rest of my career to go. As an executive who deeply values time with my family, I didn’t feel like things were in balance or that - [Todd L.](https://www.petebriscoe.org/testimonial/todd-l/) - When I signed up with Pete for coaching a couple of years ago, I was seeking guidance to become a more impactful leader for my team in addition to help sorting through emotional obstacles that hindered my professional and personal growth. Pete immediately earned my trust and respect by the way he listened. It frequently - [Michelynne McNeeley](https://www.petebriscoe.org/testimonial/michelynne-mcneeley/) - What truly set Pete apart was his holistic approach, seamlessly integrating professional, personal and spiritual growth into the fabric of our sessions. It wasn't just about hitting business targets; it was about cultivating a mindset that transcended the confines of the boardroom. He empowered me through introspective conversations to navigate challenges with resilience and inspired ## Products - [Pete Briscoe's Preaching Course](https://www.petebriscoe.org/product/pete-briscoes-preaching-course/) - This course will challenge you. There are some mistakes preachers make that are easily avoidable or fixed. While I was learning to preach, I made lots of mistakes myself because my seminary training focused more on exegesis than communication theory. Over time, I learned to identify and eliminate them - making my preaching more effective. Let me help you get rid of them too. The lessons in this course address… Breaking the Spell Scatter shooting The ‘close enough’ syndrome Shoehorning Note disasters Stumbling out of the starting block Tellin’ ‘em what you’re gonna tell ‘em Pebbles in the shoe Preaching to the choir This course is video driven, interactive, fun, extremely pragmatic and solution oriented. Each section is designed for you to learn during the week, and put into practice on Sunday. Approximate interactive course content: 210 minutes Retail Price: $445USD ## Devotionals - [Moving Beyond Christian Philosophy](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/moving-beyond-christian-philosophy/) - We have reduced our theology into a Christian philosophy rather than letting it grow into the kind of faith that pleases God. - [A Strange Battle You Face Every Day](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/a-strange-battle-you-face-every-day/) - Every step requires faith, and that faith has some powerful enemies. But thank God, just as He was with the Israelites, He is in us! - [The Walk of Trust](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/the-walk-of-trust/) - Are you trying to live a life that pleases God? Are you choosing to trust Him? The one you choose will indelibly mark the way you live. - [Are You Able or Abel?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/are-you-able-or-abel/) - Abel chose to trust in God with faith. Cain chose to try to please God because he was able. Are you walking in faith like Abel? - [Skipping the Middle Part](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/skipping-the-middle-part/) - The bottom line is this: Our identity in Christ is not determined by our deeds. Our deeds display our identity in Christ. - [Gambling on God](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/gambling-on-god/) - It takes real faith to act on God’s proclamation that we are accepted, forgiven, and complete in Christ. God has made us new creatures in Christ! - [Trusting God With the Small Stuff](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/trusting-god-with-the-small-stuff/) - Walking in the Spirit is how we have been designed to live as followers of Christ—every day, every moment, through every burden, large or small. - [The Road Less Traveled](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/the-road-less-traveled/) - Moment by moment, day by day, until this one life is over, you must choose your path. Do I choose to “please God,” or will I “trust God?” The choice is yours! - [Your Identity Option](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/your-identity-option/) - Show me the path I am on. Lead me in the way that leads to Life. Lead me in an everlasting way. Lead me to the room of Grace. - [The Road Most Traveled](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/the-road-most-traveled/) - Has the road you have chosen led to good intentions where you are trying to flesh out a life that pleases God? Striving to be all God wants you to be! - [Are You Pleasing God or Trusting God?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/are-you-pleasing-god-or-trusting-god/) - Do we choose to trust in Christ, allowing Him to live His life through us to enable us to live a life that is pleasing to God? The choice impacts us all. - [What Happens When You Die?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/what-happens-when-you-die/) - When the body dies, our spirit is freed from tangible flesh, and we can be with the Lord at home—with the Father experiencing His love, at home where we belong. - [Focused for You](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/focused-for-you/) - When we believe in His faithfulness, peace, and relief, descend on our fearful souls. He’ll keep His promises and follow through with His pronouncements. - [The God Who Hears You](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/the-god-who-hears-you/) - God knows your name, and it’s always on His heart. If you have a problem, He cares about it even though there may be floods and famine elsewhere on the planet. - [The Ultimate Release](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/the-ultimate-release/) - God not only takes our burdens, He wants to take them because of His unending love for us! There is no limit to what He is able to handle or will do for you. - [Your Belief and God](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/your-belief-and-god-2/) - What does God mean? Does belief in what stands behind that little word matter? The answer is an unquestionable “yes.” Does it matter to you? - [Which Road Are You On?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/which-road-are-you-on/) - Are you trying to live a life that pleases God? Are you choosing to trust Him? The one you select will indelibly mark the way you live. - [How NOT to Serve God](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/how-not-to-serve-god/) - Service by guilt is decidedly not the best way to go. It’s generally a bad idea to serve for any reason other than being filled with love. - [Letting God’s Love Move You](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/letting-gods-love-move-you/) - Is obedience important? Yes! Do we produce it out of the flesh? No! Our love for Him, as He lives within us, is where we walk in obedience. - [The Key to Joyful Obedience](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/the-key-to-joyful-obedience/) - If we have experienced His unconditional love, we will love Him back, and if we love Him, we will naturally follow His lead. - [How You Get Power to ‘Do All Things’](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/how-you-get-power-to-do-all-things/) - Being dependent on Christ is how we get the power to “do all things.” We are equipped by being attached to Him and relying on Him for everything. - [Turning Your Affections Toward God](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/turning-your-affections-toward-god/) - When you truly recognize His love for what it is, the Spirit shows it to you, and you find yourself enraptured with love for Him. - [A New Way to Live](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/a-new-way-to-live/) - When we know Jesus we have been adopted into His family. We share the intimacy and fellowship of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. - [Christ Was Dependent on God, Shouldn’t We Be?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/if-christ-was-dependent-on-god-why-shouldnt-we-be/) - Christ is our only access to the Father. He offers us not only salvation but the Father. It’s that simple, and it’s enough. - [It’s Time to Give Up](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/its-time-to-give-up/) - Are you tired of swinging an ax for God? Faith in Jesus opens up a new way of living, where His Spirit empowers us as we allow Him to work through us. - [Why Christ’s Miracles are More Than Cool](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/why-christs-miracles-are-more-than-cool/) - Jesus never downplayed the miracles He performed. They always pointed to the Father, who was in Him, He was in the Father, and He was dependent on the Father. - [Depending on a Completely Dependable God](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/depending-on-a-completely-dependable-god/) - Jesus is fully God, yet He chose to live dependent on the Father. He could have used His powers at any time but instead remained wholly dependent on the Father. - [Why Faith in Yourself is Deadly](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/why-faith-in-yourself-is-deadly/) - There’s proof as to whether or not we live by faith, and it’s demonstrated by how we walk with Christ. I must have faith in Him to empower me to do so. - [Realigning the Direction of Your Faith](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/realigning-the-direction-of-your-faith/) - Faith needs to be directed at Christ. He has all authority in heaven and earth. It is much more reassuring to trust in Christ than it is to trust myself. - [What Is Faith?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/what-is-faith/) - Faith is the decision of the will to act on what the mind believes is true. It is found in the object of faith: Jesus Christ. - [What Is Your Faith Rooted In?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/what-is-your-faith-rooted-in/) - Faith has to be grounded in something. Faith in Christ allows us to live in Him and be empowered for the mission by Him. Do you have faith in Christ - [Saying “Yes” to God](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/saying-yes-to-god/) - We can be faithful because Christ in us is faithful. The pattern of our lives should show evidence of saying “yes” to God more often than not. - [Giving God Permission to Live Through You](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/giving-god-permission-to-live-through-you/) - We are saints, perfect and holy in our spirit before God. Now allow God to live up to what we have already attained in Christ in our souls and bodies! - [You Have Freedom Over Your Emotions](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/you-have-freedom-over-your-emotions/) - When negative emotions try to take off in their direction, grab the reins of God’s truth. You are what God says about you, not what you feel about yourself. - [Offering Yourself to Christ Alone](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/offering-yourself-to-christ-alone/) - As the Holy Spirit enlightens your mind and illuminates Scripture as you study it, you discover truths about who you are—a creature of worship designed by God. - [Living Up to What You Have Already Attained](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/living-up-to-what-you-have-already-attained/) - There is no dual citizenship. We are all members of His kingdom first and foremost. We now have complete allegiance to Christ. - [Do You Really Know Him?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/do-you-really-know-him/) - If you have the Holy Spirit in your spirit and God’s Word in your hand, all things about salvation and life in Christ are available to you. - [Everything You Need to Live the Abundant Life](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/everything-you-need-to-live-your-abundant-life/) - Everything you need to live the abundant life you already have. He’s already given it to you. By Your Spirit, help me to understand Your purpose for me. - [Why You Shouldn’t Rush God’s Timing](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/why-you-shouldnt-rush-gods-timing/) - God reveals His will in His own perfect time. It is perfect, and someday we will understand. Ask the Spirit to give you faith to believe this truth. - [The Joy and Mystery of Pursuing Jesus Christ](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/the-joy-and-mystery-of-pursuing-jesus-christ/) - We will never fully understand the mystery of God. It’s not something we can wrap our minds around. BUT God reveals it through His Spirit. - [The Power of Being Crucified With Christ](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/the-power-of-being-crucified-with-christ/) - Christ lives in you today! He knows how to worship, serve, and live His life through you to bring you joy and glory to God - [The Purity of Your Heart](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/the-purity-of-your-heart/) - Believers want to have a pure heart before the Father. We want Him to see our complete trust and dependence on the Spirit for every need. - [What It Means to Be Genuinely Spiritual](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/what-it-means-to-be-genuinely-spiritual/) - When you are born again, your spirit is finished and complete. It’s what is perfect about you and why you aren’t identified as a “sinner” anymore. - [Jesus Will Take Care of Your Soul](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/jesus-will-take-care-of-your-soul/) - Jesus wants you to rest your soul. He’s got it. Only Jesus understands and tenderly loves your soul, so give it to Him today. He will take care of it! - [Let the Holy Spirit Take Control](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/let-the-holy-spirit-take-control/) - Today, are you allowing the Holy Spirit inside of you to have His way with you and your body? Or are you trying to control things yourself? - [Live for Christ With All You’ve Got](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/live-for-christ-with-all-youve-got/) - The design of the Christian life is a passionate walk in the Holy Spirit, where we rest in who we are in Christ and allow Him to live His life through us. - [Hoping in Christ Helps Free You from Sin](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/hoping-in-christ-helps-free-you-from-sin/) - Knowing who we are in Christ and understanding the unconditional love of a perfect father—it’s like that mineshaft of hope that brings light into our darkness. - [Are You Wagering without Hesitation?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/are-you-wagering-without-hesitation/) - When you place your trust in Him to do what He promises to do for you, in you, and through you, then you find true peace and the freedom to obey. - [Managing Your Sin Doesn’t Work](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/managing-your-sin-doesnt-work/) - If you believe you're a "sinner saved by grace," you tend to focus on sin management more than pursuing intimacy with God. Our identity is not that of a sinner! - [No Longer Sinners, We Are Holy](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/prioritizing-your-relationship-with-christ/) - You are not a sinner saved by grace. You are now a saint who sometimes sins—seeing yourself as a sinner or a saint makes a huge difference. - [Prioritizing Your Relationship With Christ](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/prioritizing-your-relationship-with-christ-2/) - On earth, there is the constant tension between the temporary and the eternal. It’s natural and normal to feel this tension. We yearn for the eternal. - [Prioritizing the Eternal Over the Temporary](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/prioritizing-the-eternal-over-the-temporary/) - When we lust after the temporary pleasures of this temporary realm, we trade the best for the stuff that won’t even last a moment in eternity. - [Take Time to Marvel at God’s Greatness](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/take-regular-time-to-marvel-at-gods-greatness/) - I AM is the way God wanted Moses and the people to think about Him. I AM is eternity past, right now, and always in the future—all at the same time. - [Living Your ‘Now’ With the Next World in Mind](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/living-your-now-with-the-next-world-in-mind/) - Believers in Jesus live on two planes of existence simultaneously. We are in Christ spiritually, and yet we are in our physical location…living our lives. - [We Need the Holy Spirit’s Help](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/we-need-the-spirits-help/) - How do you experience Christ? It is learned through God’s power, by His Spirit, as opposed to human wisdom. You can't figure it out on your own! - [You Are the Truest You When You’re in Christ](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/you-are-the-truest-you-when-youre-in-christ/) - Rather than basing our identity on possessions, performance, or people—realize that our true identity is found in Jesus, not in ourselves. - [Christ in You, the Hope of Glory](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/christ-in-you-the-hope-of-glory/) - What really matters is not who you are but Who is in you. This should never cease to stun us. It’s the great mystery: “Christ in you.” - [The Christian Faith Is a Mystery](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/the-christian-faith-is-a-mystery/) - Authentic Christianity doesn’t come from just facts and figures; it comes out of a mystery. What is the mystery that needs to be revealed? - [Waiting for Your Ultimate Victory](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/waiting-for-your-ultimate-victory/) - Take one last look at your body. No, it’s not going to last; yes, it will be changed. But for now, it’s a tool to be used by God to bring glory to His name. - [Living in Light of the Eternal](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/living-in-light-of-the-eternal/) - God’s Word makes it really clear that our bodies are temporary. Why not live fearlessly? Why not live with focus? Why not live with fervor? - [Making Your One Shot a Good One](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/making-your-one-shot-a-good-one/) - You are destined to fail when you try to change your flesh in the strength of your flesh. Figure out your weak spot and allow Christ to be your strength. - [How to Focus on Eternity](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/how-to-focus-on-eternity/) - Yes, our physical bodies will decay, die, and decompose, but we will be resurrected, and our spiritual bodies will have an imperishable glory and power. - [The Hope You Have in the Resurrection](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/the-hope-you-have-in-the-resurrection/) - If our body (usually little brownish shriveled-up things) dies, how will God raise us, and what will we look like when that happens? - [Finding True Comfort in the Face of Death](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/finding-true-comfort-in-the-face-of-death/) - Is it possible that believing the truth about death could bring life into clearer, more purposeful focus? Jesus said the truth sets us free. - [Staying Strong When Your Body Weakens](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/staying-strong-when-your-body-weakens/) - 2 Corinthians 4:16 has plenty of bad news, but there is excellent news ahead. May we get a clearer, truthful diagnosis through God’s Word! - [Looking Beyond the Physical](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/looking-beyond-the-physical/) - God intended for the human body to be used in a certain way. If it’s used differently than He intended, there will be natural consequences. - [Settling in for the Long Haul](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/settling-in-for-the-long-haul/) - Your body is a living sacrifice, an instrument of righteousness in the hands of God! That is an excellent reason to be joyful if I’ve ever seen one! - [Your Essential Earth Suit](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/your-essential-earth-suit/) - Take care of your body. It’s the only place you have to live. —Jim Rohn These days in Christian culture, we are often taught to look away from our earthly selves and focus on God. This appears most often in response to problems like physical temptations, obsession with personal image, or substance addiction. While it - [Forever Changed by the Living Jesus](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/forever-changed-by-the-living-jesus/) - How would your life be changed if you were fully aware of the resurrected Jesus? A living, relational experience with the risen Christ is essential. - [The Reason for Jesus](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/the-reason-for-jesus/) - Friends, listen carefully…Here’s the truth: Christ came for us because of our sins. Because of our sins, Jesus invites us to Him. - [You Are His Masterpiece](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/you-are-his-masterpiece/) - God designed us to be inhabited by His Spirit, a personal relationship shared by no other living thing in existence. Your body is incredible. - [Reality Checkup for You](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/reality-checkup-for-you/) - God wants you to praise Him for the way He has made you and to thank Him, by faith, for your body. Your body is wonderful. - [What Can Wash Away Your Sin?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/what-can-wash-away-your-sin/) - We are unable to purify ourselves from the stain of our sin, and only Jesus can heal us of the shame of our sins against us. - [Extreme Makeover: YOU Edition!](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/extreme-makeover-you-edition/) - God is in the business of remodeling. He is able to transform our spirits and our minds, and one day He’ll even transform our bodies. - [God’s Working Today through You](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/gods-working-today-through-you/) - God works through those of us who know Him and trust Him to bring honor and glory to Himself. How does He do that in all believers all of the time? - [In Whose Power Do You Trust?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/in-whose-power-do-you-trust/) - Because of God’s grace, we are able to do things that we would be unable to do on our own. He is able to empower us. How does that work? - [Your Divine Protection](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/your-divine-protection/) - We are constantly bombarded with temptation in this world. But God says that He will give us a way out, and because He is in us, e will walk us through it. - [Trusting in God’s Ability to Save You](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/trusting-in-gods-ability-to-save-you/) - At the core of the Gospel is the truth that God can find someone who has been lost. He can see them, and He can save them. - [How You Can Find Total Fulfillment in Christ](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/how-you-can-find-total-fulfillment-in-christ/) - God only is Almighty. There is no single idol on the earth that we can entirely depend on to meet our needs. They aren’t able to do so. - [What Are Your Priorities?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/what-are-your-priorities/) - Because we cannot fully comprehend God, it can be easy to turn our attention to more finite things—things we can comprehend on a more tangible level. - [Getting a Small Glimpse of the Divine](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/getting-a-small-glimpse-of-the-divine/) - Our real idea of God may lie buried underneath the rubbish of conventional religious notions and may require an intelligent and vigorous search before it is finally unearthed and exposed for what it is. Only after an ordeal of painful self-probing are we likely to discover what we actually believe about God. —A. W. Tozer - [How to Relate Knowledge with Love](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/how-to-relate-knowledge-with-love/) - Kids are quick to believe because they’re just learning about the world and haven’t been calloused like adults. Theysee God in a simple, clean-cut way. - [How Much Does God Know about You?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/how-much-does-god-know-about-you/) - God knows everything, and we can’t grasp the expanse of His might or wisdom. He’s just in a different league than we are! - [How Great Is God’s Glory?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/how-great-is-gods-glory/) - Yes, we can know about God. We can even know Him in a personal way. But in other ways, He is completely unknowable… infinitely beyond our comprehension. - [Seeing a Small Picture of God’s Power](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/seeing-a-small-picture-of-gods-power/) - We discuss what it means to believe and what it means to have God as a perfect father, but what can we say when we discuss Him as all-powerful? - [See Your Knowledge through God’s Perspective](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/see-your-knowledge-through-gods-perspective/) - One grain of sand would represent what we know about God, and the mountain of sand that is left would represent what we have yet to learn about him. - [How You Can Hear God’s Voice](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/how-you-can-hear-gods-voice/) - Learning about God is important. But the time quickly comes when words must cease and we must be silent and let God speak to us. - [Trusting in the Father Who Never Fails](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/trusting-in-the-father-who-never-fails/) - Our lives become aligned with God's truth, and this truth naturally expresses itself outwardly to the world as we press on to know Him more deeply. - [Turn His Facts into Your Faith](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/turn-his-facts-into-your-faith/) - We can learn all the basic facts about God, ut are we willing to allow the Holy Spirit to live through us in such a way that those facts become faith? - [Where to Find the Love You’re Looking For](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/where-to-find-the-love-youre-looking-for/) - We might find love in limited measure from things the world offers us, but the true love we seek can only be found in God because He is the love that we seek. - [The Absolute Necessity of Justice](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/the-absolute-necessity-of-justice/) - That act of sacrifice allows God to be both loving and fair. If we are in Christ, the punishment for our sin falls on Christ. - [Giving Credit Where It’s Due](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/giving-credit-where-its-due/) - It’s one thing to know all of these things in our head (to know this about God), but what a tragedy it would be if we never go further than this! - [God’s Patience Toward You](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/gods-patience-toward-you/) - He sees us as we are “in Christ” and knows full well who He is shaping us to become. He recognizes the process of growth and is patient with us. - [Grace Is Good](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/grace-is-good/) - For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast. - [The God Paradox](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/the-god-paradox/) - God still loves us, even in the worst of times. He finds pleasure in us even though the world only sees failure! God is pleased with us. - [Your Compassionate Father](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/your-compassionate-father/) - God the Father is full of compassion for us. He really cares, and He feels that caring toward you and me. That is a very radical thought if you think about it. - [Your Perfect Provision, NOW](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/your-perfect-provision-now/) - We can be confident God is providing the very things we need right now! If this is true, shouldn’t our prayers be focused on aligning our desires with His? - [You Are Set Apart](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/you-are-set-apart/) - God the Father does the same for us. His presence in our lives separates us from others. And many will be willing to listen to us as we make Him known. - [The Present of Presence](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/the-present-of-presence/) - Not only is God with you, but He ENJOYS being with you! He desires to love you in every way possible. Wherever you go, God will be there. - [Who’s Your Daddy?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/whos-your-daddy/) - When we talk about “God the Father,” our minds, not our emotions, must dominate. We need to let God’s Word be our guide, not our circumstances or emotions. - [Three Big Questions You Must Answer](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/your-belief-and-god/) - We must know about Him so that we can know Him—so that we can then make Him known. What we believe about God is the most important thing about us. - [When Your Road Darkens](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/when-your-road-darkens/) - What exactly do we believe in? And do we really believe, or is our belief tainted and incomplete? What do we do when the road darkens, and there is no light? - [Getting in God’s Wheelbarrow](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/getting-in-gods-wheelbarrow/) - We say we believe, but do we really? God will continue to ask us to regularly get into the metaphorical wheelbarrow. Do we believe? Will we get in? - [Replacing the Next Lie](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/replacing-the-next-lie/) - Don’t feel pressured if you have doubts. You aren’t being unfaithful or betraying God by questioning what you believe. Belief is a courageous process. - [The Power Behind His Promises to You](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/the-power-behind-his-promises-to-you/) - So many of His promises seem contrary to our wishes. The nature of God’s promises is deeper than that. We need to let the light of truth shine on our problems. - [Praising Him through the Fog](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/praising-him-through-the-fog/) - Abraham’s son was not yet born, but his praise emerged anyway in the midst of his pain. He’s still struggling but standing on the promise he received. - [Where You Are in Your Belief Today](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/where-you-are-in-your-belief-today/) - Faith is something that is strengthened over time. You don’t get one shot that lasts your whole life. Belief is consistent in its progress. - [Honesty in Your Belief](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/honesty-in-your-belief/) - God’s Word gives us the perspective that we need to put the facts in their place so that we can respond in faith to what God says is true. - [His Comfort in Your Pain](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/his-comfort-in-your-pain/) - I don’t know what issues you’re facing today. But if you’ve opened your life to Jesus Christ, I do know that God is with you and in you right now. - [Eternal Life Now](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/eternal-life-now/) - Your belief in Christ begins eternal life now through a relationship with God based on grace and love rather than fear and performance. - [Do You Believe Belief Is Important?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/do-you-believe-belief-is-important/) - Life transformation does not come from performance but from belief. Trusting in Jesus, your works will be a natural extension of your relationship with Him. - [Believing What Matters](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/believing-what-matters/) - None of our beliefs matter more than our belief in God because it is directly tied to the most valued aspects of our existence—like joy, peace, and purpose. - [Your Bible and Your Belief](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/your-bible-and-your-belief/) - What we believe matters. It matters every second of every day. Where do we go to see if our thoughts and ideas are worthy of our belief? - [Do You Believe?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/do-you-believe/) - The world has some “issues” right now. Only God knows the future. Our belief in Him and His truth is the key to entering the future with peace and power. - [Welcome Others Through Me](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/reaching-downward/) - Winning is not associating with those above us. It’s not being in the "right" social circles. It's welcoming those whom we consider to be below us. - [Status Dispute](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/status-dispute/) - “Elevation by Association.” It’s the mindset that says, If I surround myself with positive-status people, then I’ll be elevated in the minds of others as well. - [I’m Number One!](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/im-number-one/) - Why are we narrowing in on the common occurrence of viewing others as either above us or below us? What does it matter? Because it mattered to Jesus. - [Jesus Runs to the Cry](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/he-comes-running/) - When we trust, limits are erased, and God’s power can do as He pleases in our lives and ministries. To trust is to believe. - [The Spirit of Competition](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/the-spirit-of-competition/) - The desire to win is founded upon a mindset taught to us at a very young age. It’s an offensive strategy, and it’s the way our society trains us. - [No More Great Things for God](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/no-more-great-things-for-god/) - What's the difference between flesh and the Spirit? God is free to move when we stop operating in our strength. We cannot do what only God can do! - [Letting God Do His Thing](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/letting-god-do-his-thing/) - This is the difference between doing something in our own strength and doing it by His strength. Supernatural work requires the supernatural One. - [What Makes Jesus Impatient?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/what-makes-jesus-impatient/) - Two things make Jesus impatient: unbelief and perversity. And that’s what is going on here. We can easily confuse self-confidence with God-confidence. - [Holy Impatience Rooted in Compassion](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/holy-impatience/) - Holy impatience cries out inside you, No way! Let’s get help now. There’s a better life waiting for us. Now is better than later. - [Do You Feel Inadequate?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/breaking-limits/) - Jesus takes limited people and does limitless things through them. This is what He did then, and it’s what He will do now. - [Are You Available?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/are-you-available/) - It doesn’t matter how few gifts you bring. It doesn’t matter if your skills are rusty. All that matters is you make yourself available to Jesus. - [Being Empowered Beyond Your Abilities](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/beyond-credentials/) - Jesus invites us to do things beyond our abilities. Why? Because He knows we must depend upon Him to empower us. As a result, others will be drawn to seek Him. - [The Hope Found in an Empty Tomb](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/the-hope-found-in-an-empty-tomb/) - God has given us two crucial things: new birth and living hope by His mercy and through the resurrection of Jesus. Where would we be without either of these?! - [The Transforming Power of the Resurrection](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/the-transforming-power-of-the-resurrection/) - Paul was transformed from an arrogant religious leader into a humble, faithful servant… a man transformed by the grace of God. May it be the same for us! - [Having Faith in the Resurrection](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/having-faith-in-the-resurrection/) - What if Christ was not raised from the dead? If Jesus wasn’t raised, it’s game over. But if He was—and if we believe it—then the game has just begun. - [The Power of Christ’s Resurrection](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/the-power-of-christs-resurrection/) - This precious woman met the risen Christ. If you want to see the resurrected Jesus, look at people like her because she was resurrected with Him, too. - [Your True Source of Acceptance](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/your-true-source-of-acceptance/) - Are you experiencing the agony of rejection? Rejection is another aspect of suffering that can draw you into deeper intimacy and unity with Christ. - [Beyond Symbolism](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/beyond-symbolism/) - Christ’s suffering and our suffering are a shared experience. Suffering as servants brings about freedom, an extension of who we are in Him. - [His Pain, Your Gain](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/his-pain-your-gain/) - Jesus understands physical suffering; He certainly sympathizes with our physical suffering. Because of the suffering He endured on the cross, we can know peace. - [Identifying with Christ](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/identifying-with-christ/) - Our suffering is a shared experience with Jesus—something that can bring deeper intimacy to our relationship with Him. He’s offering Himself to us. - [When Things Go from Bad to Worse](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/when-things-go-from-bad-to-worse/) - The Spirit will be in you and return for you one day. Do you believe this truth? Are you living out this truth? Trust Jesus. He has it all figured out. - [The Holy Spirit Lives in You](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/the-holy-spirit-lives-in-you/) - The Holy Spirit of God is not just around us, not just among us. He is IN us. If you have opened the door of your life to Christ, He is in YOU! - [Letting Jesus’ Love Flow through You](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/letting-jesus-love-flow-through-you/) - Jesus' love in us and displayed through us will distinguish us as His disciples. He is in you, and His love fulfills this new command to love others. - [Are You Listening?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/are-you-listening/) - Love, truth, fear, and being alone—are all critical issues we wrestle with as we discover who we are in Christ. What does Jesus say about these things? - [Resting in His Strength](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/resting-in-his-strength/) - Do you recognize and confess that you can't live as you should in your strength? Rest and trust in Jesus to live His life through you today! - [What to Do When You Feel Like Judas](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/what-to-do-when-you-feel-like-judas/) - Our flesh and mind are still vulnerable to temptation. This can lead to “betrayals” of many kinds. But Jesus will never leave you or forsake you! - [Letting Jesus Serve Through You](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/letting-jesus-serve-through-you/) - This very Jesus, the servant Jesus, lives in us. As we live in Him, it will be the most natural thing in the world for us to serve others. - [Allowing Jesus to Serve You](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/allowing-jesus-to-serve-you/) - Pride in our flesh will protest, but the bottom line is that our identity in Christ depends only on what He has done for us… not on what we do for Him. - [Don’t Pass Over the Passover](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/dont-pass-over-passover/) - It was the Passover. Jesus had just come into Jerusalem, with all the crowds adoring Him, and this was like energy; there was electricity in the air. - [Running Toward Inadequacy](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/running-toward-inadequacy/) - Inadequacy is a struggle. It can paralyze or taunt us. We want to run away or ignore the request, convinced God has the wrong person in mind for the job. - [Everyone (Else) Is Great](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/everyone-else-is-great/) - Believing that our limitations limit our contributions is a worldly mindset. This mindset has no place with Jesus and what He wants to do through us. - [Love Like a Fool](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/love-like-a-fool/) - What do you mean Jesus wants me to share my faith with my family? Has He lost His mind? Sharing with your family isn’t a solo gig; He is with you! - [No Place Like Home](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/no-place-like-home/) - Some of you left home and never looked back. Over your shoulder existed too much pain, too much neglect, and too many stories that shouldn’t be retold. - [A Purpose and a Place](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/a-purpose-and-a-place/) - What’s my life’s purpose? Jesus will partner with us the same way He partnered with this transformed man in the region of Gerasenes. - [Power to Transform](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/power-to-transform/) - We don’t disappear when He indwells us; we join Him. One gift of this partnership is that Jesus wants to do something with us. What is it? - [What Will He Do with You?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/what-will-he-do-with-you/) - Have you ever wondered what Jesus wants to do with you? Jesus, help me to keep my ears open and my heart ready for anything. - [Raving Fans](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/raving-fans/) - Jesus tells us that the worse our sin, the more grateful we are for redemption—the more grateful we are for Him. Now rest in your forgiveness with gratefulness! - [Erasing Imaginary Lines](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/erasing-imaginary-lines/) - We struggle to forgive ourselves. Surely a holy God cannot forgive us or love us either. And so we’re desperate to know: Is there any hope? - [How Much Sin Is Too Much?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/how-much-sin-is-too-much/) - Thinking there are certain people who are beyond redemption is a lie. There is no sin that makes you less eligible for redemption. - [Is Anyone Beyond Redemption?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/is-anyone-beyond-redemption/) - What’s your story? Are there events and choices you’ve made which haunt you, telling you that you’re beyond redemption? No one is beyond redemption! - [How to Eradicate Racism](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/how-to-eradicate-racism/) - The cancer of racism in churches can be eradicated by: First, we move toward people who are not like us. And then we ask them, “What can we do?” - [Reprogramming Your Roots](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/reprogramming-your-roots/) - Jesus moves toward people—all people—without discrimination. As His followers, we will do the same. Our lives and way of thinking will mirror His . - [Take a Step Toward Each Other](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/take-a-step-toward-each-other/) - This friendship transformed me because we were willing to move toward one another. Mo moved toward me. I moved toward him. We helped each other grow. - [How to Handle an Enemy](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/how-to-handle-an-enemy/) - How do I love my enemies? Love them by blessing them. Love them by praying for them. Love them by showing gentleness. Love them by showing generosity. - [The Pot, the Kettle, and Racism](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/the-pot-the-kettle-and-racism/) - Assumptions, avoidance, distasteful humor, and discrimination—all create chasms and ruin potential relationships, but Jesus wants us to move toward each other. - [Set Your Heart on Things Eternal](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/set-your-heart-on-things-eternal/) - We are being made new through the grace of Jesus. The Holy Spirit lives in us. The Father’s love never fails us. Keep your heart and mind set on Jesus. - [A Cure for Cancer in the Church](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/a-cure-for-cancer-in-the-church/) - This cancer (racism), if left unchecked inside the Church, will infect our experience and our extension of God and His grace. - [Messengers of Grace](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/messengers-of-grace/) - It’s okay if people misunderstand us. We are messengers of grace following the example of Jesus, and He was constantly misunderstood. - [Age of Grace](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/age-of-grace/) - We should erase the following statement from our lives: “That person can’t possibly be a Christian because ____________.” This is Jesus’ job! - [Which Way Do You Lean?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/which-way-do-you-lean/) - Jesus is not taking applications for judges. We have a Judge; His name is Jesus. There’s no need for us to do His job. He is more than adequate. - [When the Enemy Seeks to Divide](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/the-smell-of-an-enemy/) - If it was true of Jesus, it is true of us. This “full of grace, full of truth” man indwells us; in Him, we can navigate our culture and bring unity. - [Are You An Initiator of Love?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/becoming-initiators/) - Next time you encounter your enemy, ask the Spirit, What would it look like for You to love this person the way I wish this person loved me? - [Are You In Search for Unity?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/search-for-unity/) - Grace and truth is what we need because we live in Christ before a culture that says anything goes and all ideas are equally valid. - [When the Spirit Prays Through Us](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/when-the-spirit-prays-through-us/) - As Jesus expresses Himself through us, our lives now will look very much like His life did then. And Jesus’ life was full of loving His enemies. - [He Asks the Impossible](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/he-asks-the-impossible/) - When Jesus tells us to love our enemies, what He’s saying is this: “I want you to do this impossible thing, and I will enable you to do as I ask.” - [Jesus Wants Me to What?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/jesus-wants-me-to-what/) - As a new creation in Christ, what are we supposed to do with our enemies? Jesus says, “Love your enemies.” Noooo. Surely He didn’t mean it! - [A New, Old Way of Loving](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/a-new-old-way-of-loving/) - Jesus broke the rules to love others. It might be terrifying to break the rules of convention and tradition to love, but it’s worth it. - [Do You Know the Way of a Rascal?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/do-you-know-the-way-of-a-rascal/) - Jesus, the rascal was about to make a point. He chose to challenge the rules of the rule police. Jesus healed the man, and the Pharisees were furious. - [Removing Obstacles to Love](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/removing-obstacles-to-love/) - Legalism gets caught up in the arbitrary. And here is the problem: Jesus says our arbitrary rules get in the way of loving people. - [Examining Lost Ground](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/examining-lost-ground/) - For when the Church cultivates rule keepers, rule keepers soon become rule police. And rule police have a hard time loving rule breakers. - [Out With the Old, in With the New](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/out-with-the-old-in-with-the-new/) - When we come to Jesus and set our old lives—our messiness—before Him, His goal isn’t to make us tidy. His goal is to make us new. - [How Do I Love Messy People?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/keeping-ill-company/) - Our messiness doesn’t repel Jesus. He has this habit of throwing open the doors of love to messy people. He did it all the time. - [Do You Hear the Invitation?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/were-invited/) - By the indwelling Spirit of God, we’ll learn to recognize His prompting to get away and rest with Him. Do you hear the invitation? - [There's No Magical Formula](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/forsaking-a-formula/) - Life was chaotic. Needs were unending. In response, Jesus stayed connected with the Father by withdrawing to lonely places. - [Can You Admit You Are a Mess?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/admitting-messiness/) - Jesus can't do anything for you until you admit you're a mess. Acknowledging that you're a mess is the repentance Jesus is talking about. - [There’s No Such Thing as Jesus Repellant](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/theres-no-such-thing-as-jesus-repellant/) - Levi, the tax collector, was messy, but Jesus never said, “Clean up your act.” Instead, Jesus looked at Levi and said, “Follow me.” - [Are You a Tidy Mess?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/are-you-a-tidy-mess/) - There are two types of people: tidy people and messy people. Jesus came for messy people. So let’s dive in and look at how Jesus dealt with messy people. - [It’s Time to Sneak Out](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/its-time-to-sneak-out/) - The world is quiet here. —Lemony Snicket, The Slippery Slope Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed. (Luke 5:16) We aren’t asking, “What would Jesus do?” but “What will Jesus do—in us and through us?” Since Jesus is the same yesterday, today, and forever... And He indwells believers at the moment of conversion... Then - [That Something Missing](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/that-something-missing/) - Sometimes, we just need to withdraw and have an out-loud pier moment with God. Jesus spoke honestly to the Father. His prayers were real and heartfelt. - [Whom Are You Leading?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/whom-are-you-leading/) - As leaders and mentors, the book of Acts shows us that Jesus will invite people into ministry through us if we surrender to Him. - [One-On-One Time With the Father](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/one-on-one-time-with-the-father/) - Time can pass quickly without a real, intimate conversation with someone we love so desperately. Jesus experienced this, too. - [Who Will Invite Us to Lead?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/who-will-invite-us-to-lead/) - So, how do we know what Jesus has for us individually? Evidently, He will invite us through the invitation of a leader or mentor. - [The Fallacy of Calls to Ministry](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/the-fallacy-of-calls-to-ministry/) - Do not root yourself in the fallacy that permeates the evangelical culture. It says, “All are called to serve, but only some are called to full-time ministry.” - [How Else Will They Hear?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/how-else-will-they-hear/) - Right now, all over the world, people are hearing something other than grace. They are being told that God’s acceptance is based upon their performance. - [Words of Grace](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/words-of-grace/) - When Jesus expresses Himself through us, then the words we use to preach the Gospel will sound like the words Jesus used—words of grace. - [Detaining Grace](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/detaining-grace/) - Jesus left the sick and lame to proclaim grace to those who hadn’t heard it yet. This is the most important thing to Jesus. - [It Had Better Be Important](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/it-had-better-be-important/) - Jesus understood that sometimes you drop everything—you even leave people unhealed—in order to do the MOST important thing. - [The Most Important Thing](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/the-most-important-thing/) - Some things are important, others are more important, but only a few are MOST important. The things most important to Him will become the most important to us. - [Direct Access](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/direct-access/) - You are a child of God, filled with His Spirit. As a result, all power and authority keep you. Walk like it. Live knowing you have authority over the evil one. - [A Few Powerful Words](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/a-few-powerful-words/) - In the presence of Jesus, demons become wimps instantly. Why? Because evil knows the ultimate authority of Christ limits its reign. - [From Bullies to Wimps](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/from-bullies-to-wimps/) - In the presence of a greater strength, bullies become wimps. Demons know obedience isn’t a choice in the presence of Jesus. - [The Source Matters](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/the-source-matters/) - Are demons real? Are they still around today? What can they do to people? Can they possess people? Can they possess Christians? - [One at a Time](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/one-at-a-time/) - You are not called to help every single helpless person. The needs are too great for just one person to meet. Ask Jesus who needs help today. - [One Thing](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/one-thing/) - Jesus’ secondary purpose as the Son of God is to help helpless people. And because He lives in us, that’s our secondary calling, too. - [Beat-up Guitars](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/beat-up-guitars/) - Many of us feel like beat-up guitars. Life has been hard. We don’t feel capable of beauty. But in the hands of the Master, we sound beautiful. - [The Father Is Pleased](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/the-father-is-pleased/) - If all we ever do is exercise our primary calling—being His child—we have fulfilled our primary purpose. God is pleased with us; God is pleased with you. - [Why Am I Here?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/why-am-i-here/) - Do you ever wonder who you are and why you are here? You are God’s kid. This is the truth from which everything else flows. - [What WILL Jesus Do?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/what-will-jesus-do/) - If Jesus is the same yesterday, today, and forever, and IF Jesus lives through me, THEN what will Jesus do if I’m tempted? He’ll say no. - [How it Happens](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/satans-m-o/) - Jesus knows temptation almost always links sinful activity to an imagined reward, something it can’t deliver. While Satan is a formidable foe, Jesus overcame. - [We’re the Glove](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/were-the-glove/) - If we are in Christ, then the Spirit is in us. And by His strength, we can overcome temptation. But how did Jesus overcome temptation? - [Poor Imitations](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/poor-imitations/) - Instead of trying to be poor imitations of Jesus, we can be excellent dwelling places for His Spirit. As the Spirit lives in us, we will do as He leads. - [Dance on Display](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/dance-on-display/) - We each need grace for different things in our lives. We are dancing in the same Spirit, but our dances are individually choreographed. - [Beyond Obligation](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/beyond-obligation/) - I open my hands to You, Jesus—fill them with Yours and lead me in the dance of sacrifice, selflessness, and service. Amen! - [Neither Marching nor Dancing](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/neither-marching-nor-dancing/) - There’s white space in Paul’s letter to the Galatians where we get stuck. If you’re living in the white area, you've stopped marching but aren’t dancing. - [Wandering the Wilderness](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/wandering-the-wilderness/) - I’m so grateful you’ve stopped marching. But I don’t want you in Egypt—under the bondage of the law. But neither do I want you wandering in the wilderness. - [Middleman](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/middleman/) - Many of you are stuck between legalism and grace. Living life half-surrendered to God’s Spirit isn’t the adventure God has for you. - [Simple Spirit](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/simple-spirit/) - Following the Spirit can be as simple as a plate of cookies and a dining room table. There are opportunities all around us to walk in the Spirit and love. - [Too Tired for Eternity](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/too-tired-for-eternity/) - We need a reminder of our identity in Christ when we feel weary or exhausted. Weariness comes from working in the flesh. Life comes from the Spirit. - [I Smell Your Flesh](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/i-smell-your-flesh/) - Good works done in the flesh bring death, decay, and stench. These kinds of good works are not the aroma of Christ, but the aroma of the flesh - [Just Not Working](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/just-not-working/) - Are you working in the flesh—independently from God? This may leave you feeling defeated and more exhausted trying to do good works. - [Trust Fall](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/trust-fall/) - If you were being honest, how much do you trust God’s Spirit? I want to encourage you to let go. Ask the Holy Spirit to take over. Tell Him it’s all His. - [Arriving At “I Can’t”](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/arriving-at-i-cant/) - If someone would give you a to-do list detailing how to live a good, Christian life, you’d feel better! But Jesus asks us to trust in him moment by moment. - [Day of Dependence](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/day-of-dependence/) - You can start dancing in the freedom of a Spirit-led life right now, or you can march as a slave to your own flesh. What will you choose? - [Grace Upon Grace](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/grace-upon-grace/) - The trajectory of our life—whether we walk in the Spirit or feed the desires of our flesh—is mapped by a decision. Choosing the Spirit or the flesh. - [Let Go of The Need to Fix](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/let-go-of-the-need-to-fix/) - What would happen if you trusted Jesus and let love happen? The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love. - [Reduce It to One Thing](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/reduce-it-to-one-thing/) - Forget the expectations and obligations the world and Church place on you. Just focus on the greatest command that everything else hangs on: Love. - [Let Love Happen](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/let-love-happen/) - The Spirit is at work in us. As we trust in Him and let love happen, He brings about active love. It’s that one step that makes the Christian life a dance. - [Choose Your Focus](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/choose-your-focus/) - Either you are fixated on the freedom that lies before you, or the slavery that was left behind. Only one can be your reality, which one will you choose? - [Sink Less](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/sink-less/) - Do you need a lifeline? If you feel like you’re drowning, take a deep breath and focus on one thing: faith expressing itself through love today. - [Your Jesus Is Showing](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/your-jesus-is-showing/) - Christ is forming in us—taking shape and filling us like a child fills his mother. Jesus will begin to show in our lives, and the results are excellent. - [Pregnancy Relay](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/pregnancy-relay/) - In Galatians, Paul says, “I will labor for you until you are the ones swollen by the fullness of Christ in you.” It’s a hand-off of the pregnancy baton. - [Misplaced Joy](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/misplaced-joy/) - Let Him live through you again. Reach up to Him with empty hands and an open mind. Tell Him you are willing to let Him show through you. - [Don’t Waste a Day](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/dont-waste-a-day/) - When we believe that it’s Jesus + Something? We miss the true Gospel: Jesus + Nothing = Everything. And the minute that happens, true joy goes out the window. - [How’s Your Side Profile?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/hows-your-side-profile/) - Christian living is all about being pregnant with new life and letting that new life show. How is your side profile? Are you letting Him show? - [Freedom to Choose](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/freedom-to-choose/) - No more favoritism in the body of Christ. Only invitation. There is plenty of room at His feet. Our highest calling is found in Christ. - [Where Did All the Ladies Go?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/where-did-all-the-ladies-go/) - Jesus went out of his way to invite the discarded and rejected into the Kingdom. He was radical in this way—inviting outsiders to become insiders. - [Breaking Rank](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/breaking-rank/) - Jesus wants to change the way we see people—the way you see people. Each of us is His favorite. Are you willing to let Him give you new eyes today? - [We Can Choose](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/we-can-choose/) - We are all God's favorites. Because we are all His favorites, there is no favoritism in the family of God. Live in this truth! - [Not Playing Favorites](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/not-playing-favorites/) - You are God’s favorite. Stop and feel this for a moment. He’s grabbing you by the shoulders, looking you in the eyes, saying, “You are my favorite!” - [Two Sides of The Same Coin](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/two-sides-of-the-same-coin/) - Jesus is enough. He becomes more than we could ever imagine when we say no to contracts and walk with Him by faith moment by moment, song by song. - [First System First](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/first-system-first/) - The Old Testament is about grace, and the New Testament is about grace. The law system was thrown into the middle of that. - [The Curse of Perfection](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/the-curse-of-perfection/) - Jesus desires for us to be free to live and free to be consumed by His perfect love. We can leave the curse of perfection behind. - [Supplemental Faith](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/supplemental-faith/) - Jesus requires no supplement. His provision is complete. To add to the pure Gospel of God’s amazing grace isn’t just unnecessary. - [No Résumé Needed](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/no-resume-needed/) - Because you are His kid, you can call Him “Daddy” with all of a child's random, giddy, spontaneous passion. Nothing can keep you from His embrace today! - [The Empowered’s New Clothes](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/the-empowereds-new-clothes/) - When you are in Christ, He envelopes you, clothes you, and identifies with you so strongly that you are inseparable from Him—like the dye in the cloth. - [Peer-Pressured Honesty](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/peer-pressured-honesty/) - Because you have faith in Christ Jesus, you are a child of God. Nothing else matters. So pray honest prayers of defeat if that is where you are today. - [Finding Freedom in Dependency](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/finding-freedom-in-dependency/) - The law was not designed to bring freedom. It was designed as a fence creating a place of captivity and protection for God’s people. - [Designed to Make You Desperate](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/designed-to-make-you-desperate/) - It is in your desperation that He saves you. It is out of the darkness that He disciples you. And it is in this grace that you find life. - [Provocative Law](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/provocative-law/) - The law was never intended to stop sinfulness. In fact, according to Romans, it actually causes us to sin even more. Was the law flawed? - [Expiration Date AD 30-33](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/expiration-date-ad-30-33/) - Why did God give the law at all? It was added for a limited time because of the proclivities of man. The law expired with Jesus! - [Why Do We Have the Law?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/why-do-we-have-the-law/) - In Galatians, Paul builds the tension between law and grace to the place where we have to face clear distinctions, and we have to choose between the two. - [Nostalgia for The Soul](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/nostalgia-for-the-soul/) - Purity, generosity, and hunger for the Word are all longings of His Spirit within us, and this fruit ripens by season, not by force. - [Hand in Hand](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/hand-in-hand/) - Stay focused on the cross. Follow His lead. It’s hard for a child to dart into the street when he or she is holding the hand of a loving father. - [You Can’t Muscle Trust](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/you-cant-muscle-trust/) - Today, in the shadow of the cross, He calls us to walk in the Spirit—in an intimate, willful following of the living Word that guides us. - [One Gospel, One Focus](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/one-gospel-one-focus/) - Keep looking ahead, running in the Spirit according to the Truth of God’s Word. Like a tree’s roots, legalism is waiting to trip you up. Don’t look back. - [Choose Your Shoes](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/choose-your-shoes/) - The choice is yours. You can either be a dancer or a marcher, but you can’t be both. You either dance in the Spirit or march in the power of your flesh. - [Faith Listens](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/faith-listens/) - God communicates however He desires but starting with Scripture is always a good idea. He wants to communicate and has given His Spirit to guide you. - [Faith Works Like This](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/faith-works-like-this/) - In whom or in what will you put your faith? Jesus isn’t concerned about the quantity or quality of your faith. He just desires to be the object of your faith. - [The Faith Equation](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/the-faith-equation/) - Faith is bringing everything to Jesus. Faith + hope = trust. That’s the equation for life. What do you need to bring to Him right now? - [I’m Depending](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/im-depending/) - Trying to live like Christ without the strength and character of Christ living through us is bondage. We have died with Him and are indwelt by Him. - [Live God](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/live-god/) - No, “living God” isn’t marching within the confines of a bunch of rules. It’s dancing within the current of ever-flowing love. - [Everyday Opportunity](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/everyday-opportunity/) - What is evidence of the indwelling Christ? When you start recognizing the truth that Christ indwells us—you start seeing Jesus in people all around you. - [Does Indwelling Really Change Anything?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/does-indwelling-really-change-anything/) - I’m participating in the divine life today. I was dead, now I live. I was tired, now I persevere. I was defeated, now I’m victorious. Amen! - [To Those Who Help Themselves](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/to-those-who-help-themselves/) - The truth is we don’t need to help ourselves. We lack nothing. Why? Because God lives in us right here and right now! Amen! - [Eternity Today](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/eternity-today/) - Perhaps you’ve never thought of it before—that you don’t have to wait until eternity to live in Christ and Christ in you. It is now. - [A Call to Die](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/a-call-to-die/) - We’ve died to a life defined by self, and we’re alive to Christ. In short, the Son of God indwells us. Isn’t that incredible? - [Learning to Let Go](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/learning-to-let-go/) - If the indwelling is the Spirit’s resting in you, then dependence is you resting in the Spirit. Lord, I will abide in You as You abide in me. - [The Heart’s Not Big Enough](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/the-hearts-not-big-enough/) - You never again have to ask for help as though you and Jesus were two separate entities. You are one. His life is your life. In Him, You have found yourself. - [What Have You Died To?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/what-have-you-died-to/) - Whether we realize it or not, we are dead to the laws of performance-based acceptance. We are dead to anything that we think may earn additional favor from God. - [The Subject Is Subject to Change](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/the-subject-is-subject-to-change/) - Life in Christ isn’t about creating a certain legacy. It’s about Jesus alive in me. I'm dead. I'm indwelt. I'm depending. - [We’re Tighter Than Tight](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/were-tighter-than-tight/) - We are crucified with Christ and live by Christ. Our lives become entangled—no, more than entangled. His life becomes one with ours. - [Stop Building](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/stop-building/) - Why find shelter in a person? Their power only comes from above. There is no safer place to weather the storm than to be in a shelter immune to its fury. - [Trip in the Right Direction](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/trip-in-the-right-direction/) - When I stumble, I’ll inevitably fall into Jesus' arms. And this—this nearness and embrace—is the place He desires for His children. - [Elevator Dancing](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/elevator-dancing/) - You’ve been trying to dance in an elevator, and I have the most incredible outdoor dance floor waiting for you. Come. Follow Me. Dance this way! - [What Sort of Dance Partner Are You, Anyway?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/what-sort-of-dance-partner-are-you-anyway/) - God does not turn His head in our suffering. While God doesn’t promise easy, He promises His presence. He will never leave us. - [The Song of Gratitude](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/the-song-of-gratitude/) - The solution to dancing through life’s circumstances is beautifully simple. Gratitude. What are you grateful for? Gratitude will change your perspective. - [Dancing Free Isn’t Dirty Dancing if the Music Stops](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/dancing-free-isnt-dirty-dancing-if-the-music-stops/) - One fear of freedom is that it will land us in sin. But Christ, who is sinless, has filled me with His Spirit. Thus, I’m walking in the Spirit, not in sin. - [Dancing in the Streets](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/dancing-in-the-streets/) - The Gospel frees me to live life through the Spirit. I dance as if no one is watching—free from performing. May my dance be an invitation to join. - [Freedom Is Not a Trap](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/freedom-is-not-a-trap/) - People fear freedom because it’s been taught that freedom leads to sin. Freedom doesn’t lead to sin. Freedom is a gift from God, through Jesus. - [The Secret Advantage of Ex-marchers](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/the-secret-advantage-of-ex-marchers/) - How do I learn to dance when all I’ve known is the stiff obedience to marching orders? Stop trying. Start trusting. Repeat. - [If the Music Stops](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/if-the-music-stops/) - I’m saying we let those rules go and cling to the core of the Gospel. God is a God of unity. There is no room for separation in the realm of reconciliation. - [My Door Is Open](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/my-door-is-open/) - Paul understood that it is impossible to invite people in when we require adherence to rules that keep them out. The same is true today! - [The Effect of Love](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/the-effect-of-love/) - Because someone chose to leave behind the tribal rules so the tribe could grow and be free and love as they all learned to dance in grace together. - [Joy and Freedom](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/joy-and-freedom/) - There is a particular joy that comes from freedom, and that joy is anything but silent. We have nothing left to do except proclaim it and live it! - [Exchanging the Savior for a System](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/exchanging-the-savior-for-a-system/) - Adding requirements to the Gospel implies that grace is not crucial and Christ’s work is not sufficient. - [Marching Away from God](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/marching-away-from-god/) - By adding marching to dancing and legalism to grace, you actually “desert the one who called you to live in the grace of Christ.” - [You, Me, and the Galatian Heresy](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/you-me-and-the-galatian-heresy/) - Paul's critical letter is a potent reminder to us today to never mix the purity of the Gospel with anything else. - [Mixing It Up](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/mixing-it-up/) - Some things were never designed to be mixed together. Yet the Church today perpetuates a hybrid mixture of law and grace. - [Freedom in Grace](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/freedom-in-grace/) - How does knowing you have an A with Jesus change your experience in your Christian walk? - [It’s About Time](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/its-about-time/) - You can’t lose your A. It’s written in His book, forever. You can rest in that. You can stop marching and start dancing now because of His never-ending grace. - [Get It?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/get-it/) - We dance freely and safely because of what He did. Oh, the joy of resting in the finished work of Jesus and the ongoing work of His Spirit! - [First Things First](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/first-things-first/) - Who you are in Christ comes first. What you do comes second. It’s absolutely essential that we get the sequence right. I am a new creature in Christ Jesus. - [We Dance Because of What He Did](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/we-dance-because-of-what-he-did/) - When someone realizes they already have an A+ because of Christ, they will start to live like it. When we realize this truth, we express this truth. - [Freedom Not to Sin](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/freedom-not-to-sin/) - Some people fear that if we quit marching for God and start this crazy dance with Christ, we will sin more. No! Dancing in Christ sets us free not to sin. - [Making the Grade](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/making-the-grade/) - You get the A, not by your works. It’s a gift from Christ. This is the freedom found in the dance of grace. - [Pain: Beyond Hope](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/pain-beyond-hope/) - Because of Christ’s finished work, Christians already have an A. The threats of failure, judgment, and condemnation have been removed. We’re “in” for forever. - [Taking a Beating?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/taking-a-beating/) - The world judges us based on our effort, behavior, and performance. We get beat up under this system every day in school, at work, in marriage, and in ministry. - [Why? Because](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/why-because/) - I’m inviting you to step into His grace, to step into the truth of who you already are in Him. Dancing is freedom. Rest in it, and then dance. - [Following Your Heart](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/following-your-heart/) - The dance is all about praising God for what He has done and truly experiencing the indwelling Christ moment by moment, day by day. - [Calling It Quits](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/calling-it-quits/) - It’s going to feel awkward and maybe even scary to just stop marching for God. But the joy is worth it, every misstep of the way. - [Marching to the Wrong Drummers](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/marching-to-the-wrong-drummers/) - At our church we had created an army of marchers controlled by model programs… when all Jesus was asking was for us to walk and dance with Him. - [Can You Hear the Music?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/can-you-hear-the-music/) - Many Christians start out dancing with Christ but end up marching for Him and others instead. It's exhausting. Learn to live out of His power, not your own. - [The Divine Invitation to Dance](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/the-divine-invitation-to-dance/) - In order for our church to start dancing, our leaders needed to start dancing. In order for our leaders to start dancing, I needed to start dancing. - [Insiders Are Out](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/insiders-are-out/) - Why would we leave the inner circle? Because we’d rather be with Jesus than without Him. The in-crowd is not inside the camp; the in-crowd is outside the camp. - [Outside the Camp](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/outside-the-camp/) - The presence of Jesus makes people holy. And we usually find ourselves outside society’s inner circle when we’re immersed in His presence. - [God Is for Us](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/god-is-for-us/) - Grace = God’s unmerited favor. What can unmerited love do for you on your lowest of days? Knowing someone is for you, is strength to the soul. - [Becoming Divergent](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/becoming-divergent/) - Do you feel peer pressure to fit in with the inner circle? Pete will teach us how to be a divergent voice whose words will be laced with truth and grace. - [He’s Enough](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/hes-enough/) - What is the secret to living as people of grace in an ever-changing society? We live in an ever-changing culture by clinging to our never-changing Jesus. - [Love for Strangers](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/love-for-strangers/) - We are to love those who aren't like us, those who are easily overlooked, and show kindness to those who are mistreated. Who can you love today? - [Loving Family](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/hanging-on-for-life-2/) - Jesus moves us to love others by seeing others as more important than ourselves, asking… “How can I care for you in this mess?” - [Hanging On for Life](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/hanging-on-for-life/) - If we’re going to stand as people of grace, we need something to hold onto. Who do we hold onto? Jesus. He is the same yesterday and today and forever - [Party Planners](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/party-planners/) - As believers who have received His grace, His Spirit compels us to share grace. We want everyone to know they’re invited! - [Jesus Parties](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/jesus-parties/) - Can Christians party? When Scripture uses the word party, it’s more like a family reunion with music, tons of laughter, and wine. You don’t want to miss it! - [Covenant Confusion](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/covenant-confusion/) - If you think God is waiting to judge you, you’re standing at the base of Mount Sinai when the invitation to the party says: CONTINUE TO MOUNT ZION! - [Instant Gratification](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/instant-gratification/) - I found grace, and so I teach grace. Why? Because I’m seeing to it that no one misses it—not one single person. - [Don’t Miss This](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/dont-miss-this/) - I was saved and serious; serving and sacrificing; hoping God was pleased with me, and teaching others to hope for the same. Then grace! - [A Little Bit of Manure](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/a-little-bit-of-manure/) - Painful circumstances aren't God's punishment for our sins. God allows a little bit of pain to enter His kids' lives for their growth. - [Pain Trains](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/pain-trains/) - Why not eliminate suffering once and for all? Because pain trains. Our suffering doesn’t destroy our spirit but strengthens us in the end. - [A Little Pain, a Little Gain](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/a-little-pain-a-little-gain/) - Does God allow pain to enter our lives if He knows it will help us grow? Yes. It is not about punishment but rather strength training and growth. - [Time for Your Retirement](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/time-for-your-retirement/) - Jesus finished the work, and to prove it, He sat down. There is nothing we can add to His work—not sacrifice, nor confession, nor good works. - [There’s a Purpose for Pain](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/theres-a-purpose-for-pain/) - What is your understanding of Hebrews 12:6? Do you have a distorted understanding of God? Let me clear things up in the coming week. - [The Cure for Distraction and Depletion](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/the-cure-for-distraction-and-depletion/) - Are you tired? If so, stop running with your own energy. Trust Jesus, the Pioneer, and Perfecter of faith, to run the race through you. - [Incompatible With the New You](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/incompatible-with-the-new-you/) - If your race is a grind instead of a joy, ask Jesus what sin is entangling you. Then ask Him to remove it by the power of His Holy Spirit. - [Ditching Deterrents](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/ditching-deterrents/) - What hinders you in the Christian life? Baggage from your past? Anxieties? The desire to be wealthy? Maybe Netflix is a distraction. - [Run the Better Race](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/run-the-better-race/) - If we’re in Christ, we will finish the race. The question isn’t “Will we make it?” but “Will we enjoy it?” If we run the Trusting God Trail, I believe we will. - [New Testament Promises for Today](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/locating-promises/) - There is no promise of comfort for those who walk by faith; God does not promise safety. But He does promise His presence. What promises will you believe? - [Divine Eyesight](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/divine-eyesight/) - Faith is seeing the invisible, believing it, and living as though it’s true. But how do we see the invisible? And what if things don’t work out here and now? - [New Covenant Living](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/new-covenant-living/) - Ask the Holy Spirit, "what do You want to say to me today?" He'll answer through your quiet thoughts as they align with His Word. - [Seeing for Believing](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/seeing-for-believing/) - If we’re going to experience new covenant living, we have to trust God when He promises and live as though His unseeable promises are true. - [Feeling Flat in Faith](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/feeling-flat-in-faith/) - What does it mean to live by faith? We understand being “saved by faith,” but “living by faith” seems a bit more mysterious. - [The One Way to Please God](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/the-one-way-to-please-god/) - What’s the difference between living a life trying to please God versus living a life trusting God? Let's find out by examining what a life of faith looks like. - [Trusting to Someone Else’s Benefit](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/trusting-to-someone-elses-benefit/) - Just as trusting God won’t always offer us comfort or follow logic, neither will our trust guarantee results. Trusting Jesus is still best. - [When Trusting Is Awkward](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/when-trusting-is-awkward/) - What? I didn’t want to go up front. It would be awkward and seem so unnecessary. But I also know trust happens when I say yes to God. - [It Doesn’t Always Work Out](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/it-doesnt-always-work-out/) - How can we be certain we’re pleasing God? The answer? As we learn to trust Him, we simultaneously please Him. It's that simple. - [To Trust Is to Live](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/to-trust-is-to-live/) - The problem with trying to please God is that we’re stuck wondering whether or not it worked. Is it even possible to please Jesus? - [The Trying Trail](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/the-trying-trail/) - Pleasing God or Trusting God? Has my approach to my relationship with Jesus been like a spiritual buffet, trying various ways to make Him happy? - [We Were Designed for Community](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/non-negotiable/) - If you want to live the new covenant, it’s simple—draw near, hold on, and invest in others while inviting others to invest in you. - [It’s Already Yours](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/its-already-yours/) - Confidence to stand before God is rightfully ours. What is this confidence? Acceptance. If acceptance allows us to approach the Father, then intimacy is ours. - [Are We Living New?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/are-we-living-new/) - We have the confidence to enter the Most Holy Place—the throne room of God. We don’t own it sometime in the future; direct access is ours now. - [An Outdated Way of Thinking](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/an-outdated-way-of-thinking/) - Working for something we don’t yet have is an apt description of old covenant living. Many of us strive for what is already available to us. - [Not a Position, but a Station](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/not-a-position-but-a-station/) - Are we supposed to ignore our sins if we are already forgiven? We have been made perfect. Invite the Holy Spirit to help you grow away from sin! - [Holiness That No Sin Stains](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/holiness-that-no-sin-stains/) - God makes us holy. If you’re in Christ, you’re a perfect 10! There is no scale to climb onto that leads to His presence. You’re already there. - [Time to Toss the Scale](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/time-to-toss-the-scale/) - The cycle of sin and sacrifice failed to make Jacob perfect. No matter how many sacrifices Jacob made. So God sent Jesus to solve the problem of perfection. - [Are We Perfect Enough?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/wrecking-perfection/) - Our fear of imperfection is rooted in an incorrect understanding of the forgiveness & holiness provided in Jesus. The work of perfection is His work, not ours. - [Forgiven and Forgotten](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/forgiven-and-forgotten/) - Jesus entered the heavenly throne room by His blood, cleansing us of our sins. And then He promised to forgive and “remember our sins no more.” - [No Blood, No Forgiveness](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/no-blood-no-forgiveness/) - If you are in Christ, you are totally, absolutely, irrevocably, indestructibly, and thoroughly forgiven. How forgiven are you right after you sin? Completely! - [Better Blood](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/better-blood/) - Jesus is the better way of forgiveness. His blood poured out once and for all, offering complete, permanent, and irreversible forgiveness. - [In Effect Upon Death](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/in-effect-upon-death/) - Inheritance or absolute forgiveness is yours not through an apology or through penance, but through the blood of Jesus. It is a gift! - [Will Saying “I’m Sorry” Be Enough?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/will-saying-im-sorry-be-enough/) - God operates in a Blood Economy, not an Apology Economy. What does this mean for our forgiveness? Am I completely forgiven? - [It’s That Simple](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/its-that-simple/) - What is keeping you from experiencing intimacy with God? Whatever the answer, Jesus wants to set you free. Just ask Him! - [Freedom from the Curtains of Guilt and Shame](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/shredding-curtains/) - How free would you be if you allowed Jesus to destroy your curtain of conscience? Let Him shred your guilt, so nothing holds you back from His presence. - [Erasing Guilt and Shame](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/erasing-guilt/) - If you’re struggling with guilt and shame, know this truth: Jesus doesn’t stop after He cancels your sin. He also desires to free you from the guilt. - [A Completely Clear Conscience](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/a-completely-clear-conscience/) - Do you live with guilt and shame? I don’t know what guilt and shame you live with, but I do know Jesus can silence it. Amen! - [Your Little Judge](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/your-little-judge/) - Before or after we sin, the little judge in our soul will simply say, that is wrong. But the Evil One says, not only was that wrong, but you are wrong. - [No More Middle Ground](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/no-more-middle-ground/) - New covenant Christianity is about the Holy Spirit guiding and directing us into the life He has for us. But what does that look like in everyday life? - [Three Essential Promises We Can Rest In](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/three-essential-promises/) - Do you long for a list that tells you exactly how to please God? Jesus invites you to trust in His work—to cease striving and start resting. - [Living In the Shadow](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/living-in-the-shadow/) - I want you to know that your High Priest is inviting you to step away from the shadows and into a real and better way. Jesus is better. - [The Best Blessing](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/the-best-blessing/) - Because of Jesus, anyone and everyone can live a blessed life. What does that life look like? There is no separation, only intimacy. - [Leaving the Old Behind](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/leaving-the-old-behind/) - Neither old nor middle covenant living is the abundant life Jesus came to give us. Our spiritual life isn’t based on our performance but on God’s promises. - [Never Too Much or Not Enough](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/never-too-much-or-not-enough/) - At what point has God had enough and given up on me? He won’t change His mind about you because He won’t change His mind about Jesus—and you are in Christ. - [Nothing Short of Forever](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/nothing-short-of-forever/) - The Father says to His adopted children: "You can count on Me. I promise. I guarantee your salvation through Jesus! " - [There Is No Plan B](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/there-is-no-plan-b/) - I want you to understand that God isn’t fickle; He’s devoted to salvation through Christ with unwavering passion. He will never change His mind about you! - [An Unchanging Mind](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/an-unchanging-mind/) - Have you ever feared that God might change His mind about you? Because the Father’s commitment to Jesus is unshakable, His commitment to us is also unshakable. - [Make Room for the New](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/make-room-for-the-new/) - Do you wonder if you are pleasing God? This is the old way. The new way is a way of rest. As long as Jesus lives, we are secure. - [What’s Better About Jesus?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/whats-better-about-jesus/) - In Christ, we have direct access to God. He is no longer once removed by intercessory priests. Instead, He is revealed and accessible. - [Away With the Old](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/away-with-the-old/) - Many believers live like Old Testament Jews rather than New Covenant Christians. However, the New Covenant is better than the old. Grace is better than law! - [Better Than Good](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/better-than-good/) - Jesus is in this more excellent stream, and it isn’t the stream of Abraham. How will this affect our understanding of grace? - [Greater Than, Less Than](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/greater-than-less-than/) - Why was Melchizedek greater? Or was it Abraham who was greater? And how does this knowledge affect our understanding of Jesus? - [Trusting Enough to Live](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/trusting-enough-to-live/) - We can rest in the presence of God because of the work of Jesus. Your salvation will be there for you at the end. God promised—with an oath. Start living! - [God’s Double-Dog Dare Promise](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/gods-double-dog-dare-promise/) - Did God need to give an oath on top of His promise? No. But He did it because He desires for His people to have full assurance—complete confidence! - [The Opposite of Laziness](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/the-opposite-of-laziness/) - When it comes to salvation, we want a promise that can be trusted. We want to know our salvation will be waiting for us at the end. - [An Invitation to Wait](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/an-invitation-to-wait/) - The struggle that comes with our question—“How can we know if our salvation will be there for us at the end?”—is a struggle of waiting. - [Can I Be Sure?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/can-i-be-sure/) - Do you ever ask this question? If He didn’t come through in that difficult situation, how do I know He’ll come through for me on my salvation? - [The Better Things](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/the-better-things/) - Can you trust God to do what He promised? Yes, we will be able to trust God. We can trust the promise and anticipate the gift—the inheritance. - [Experience From the Edge](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/experience-from-the-edge/) - You can experience what Christ offers and still decide the risk is too great. You can experience a Christian lifestyle yet miss out! - [Real and Present Danger](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/real-and-present-danger/) - If the warning is for believers who’ve fallen from Christ—I don’t believe it is—then it’s possible to experience Christ, be reborn, and then return to death. - [Taken Forward into Jesus](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/taken-forward-into-jesus/) - Moving forward to maturity is the work of the Holy Spirit. He carries us to maturity in Christ. Isn’t that incredible? So, If you want to grow, go into Christ. - [Discarding Heroes](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/discarding-heroes/) - Imitating heroes is a dead end. My heroes were discouraging me because we aren’t called to imitate heroes. Rather, we’re called to consider Jesus. - [Do You Prefer Milk or Meat?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/do-you-prefer-milk-or-meat/) - If you recognize and live in the beautiful truth that Christ replaces your sin with His righteousness, then you’ve turned into a spiritual carnivore. - [How Can You Pause Growth?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/how-can-you-pause-growth/) - Have you pressed the pause button on spiritual growth? Acknowledging our spiritual age enables us to realize just how vulnerable we are. - [How Old Are You Spiritually?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/how-old-are-you-spiritually/) - How do we know if we’re still drinking spiritual milk or have moved on to the meat of faith? How do we know if we’re vulnerable or standing firm? - [How Can We Receive Rest?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/how-can-we-receive-rest/) - To stop striving is to trust God’s equipping. He is the One who works in us and through us. As we surrender to His indwelling Spirit, we find perfect rest. - [A Rest That Never Ends](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/a-rest-that-never-ends/) - God lives in a perpetual state of resting. This is Sabbath rest, and this is the rest we enter into as believers. It’s a rest that never ends. - [God’s Best For Us](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/gods-best-for-us/) - Our Good News is the same but slightly different: The Israelites were promised rest in the land, but we’ve been promised rest in Christ. - [Don’t Miss the Rest](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/dont-miss-the-rest/) - The promise of rest still stands today! Believe God’s invitation to rest is for you—today—and then trust His promise. No plan B. It’s either God’s rest or bust! - [Rest on All Sides](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/rest-on-all-sides/) - Good news: We don’t have to wait for death to experience rest. God’s promise is in the here and now and it’s our choice whether or not we enter. - [Pass the Test](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/pass-the-test/) - You are a treasure in the hand of Jesus. The Father has placed His hand over Jesus, and their hands are one in their impenetrable security. - [More or Less Rest](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/more-or-less-rest/) - Which path do you walk? Do you share in Christ’s rest, knowing the mystical union believers have with Jesus? In Him, we share in birth, death, and resurrection. - [To Jump or to Dabble?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/to-jump-or-to-dabble/) - This text is a love-filled warning to those dabbling at the edges: Watch your heart. Don’t wait so long. If you hear His voice today, take the plunge. - [Is Your Heart Hardening?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/is-your-heart-hardening/) - We don’t have to experience a hardening of our hearts toward God. It truly is a choice. Are you struggling to trust Him with your personal pain? - [It’s All About People](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/its-all-about-people/) - God’s ultimate desire was to live in us rather than among us. Jesus didn’t build a physical structure; He built a people. We are the temple of the living God! - [Greater Location](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/greater-location/) - Dwell on the indwelling Christ. Spend time in the New Testament. Get to know Jesus who indwells us. For “we are his house” (Hebrews 3:6b). - [Greater Honor](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/greater-honor/) - Why settle for the house when we can know the Builder? Once we know Jesus, everything and everyone else is second best. Jesus is better. - [When You Need Something to Do](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/when-you-need-something-to-do/) - Doing more and being more was a temptation then, just as it’s a temptation today. Instead, start with this: Fix your thoughts on all Jesus did. - [What to Say When a Loved One Is Dying](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/what-to-say-when-a-loved-one-is-dying/) - Have you ever wondered what to say to a loved one who is dying? It’s a sacred moment in time as he or she faces the unknown. What words can we share? - [The Promise That Erases Fear of Death](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/the-promise-that-erases-fear-of-death/) - When your time comes to face death, cry out to Jesus. He’s already there; you won’t be alone. He is the bridge that leads from this life to the next. - [What Was Jesus Thinking While Dying?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/what-was-jesus-thinking-while-dying/) - What was Jesus thinking as He hung upon the cross, knowing death had come? As Jesus died, He was thinking of Psalm 22. In verse 21, Jesus cries for help. - [Pioneering Death](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/pioneering-death/) - The great unknown will someday be a glorious place shared by us. Do we trust the path through death that Jesus has carved? Will we accept His invitation? - [Dying Without Fear](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/dying-without-fear/) - Since we are all terminal, facing death is an essential part of life. So, how is it possible to face death and not be afraid? - [Waiting in the “Until”](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/waiting-in-the-until/) - Why are we in-between? Because people must hear. God wants everyone to have an opportunity to experience Life. - [Who Exactly Is in Charge?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/who-exactly-is-in-charge/) - How could God be present with His children but not intervene on their behalf? What is Jesus waiting for? Who exactly is in charge here? - [Why Isn’t He Putting a Stop to All of This?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/why-isnt-he-putting-a-stop-to-all-of-this/) - Many people over the years ask, “If Jesus is really in charge, why does He let His children suffer?” Asked differently, “Is Jesus actually in charge?” - [The Best Infection](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/the-best-infection/) - As we look around, we see churches ‘drifting’ because they aren’t anchored to Christ and His love. Let us tether ourselves to Jesus, His life, and His love. - [Take My Word For It](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/take-my-word-for-it/) - What will you do with this message of grace that has been established by Jesus and endorsed by all those who loved Him? Do you believe the endorsements? - [Putting Second Best In Its Place](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/putting-second-best-in-its-place/) - Why would anyone ignore the more important message with the greater reward? For where there is grace and acceptance, there is Life. - [Do You Know If You’re Drifting?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/do-you-know-if-youre-drifting/) - He wants us to hear and respond to the Gospel. He wants us to reach the destination. Have you responded to the Gospel? Do you believe what you have heard? - [Unsinkable](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/unsinkable/) - What if we lived, prayed, and moved about the world as though we truly believed Jesus is in control? Would evil affect us differently if we believed this truth? - [God Calls Him “God”](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/god-calls-him-god/) - We are invited, through His Spirit, to identify with Jesus, worship Jesus, and surrender to Jesus. How can we do any of those things authentically if we doubt? - [When Firstborn Doesn’t Mean “Oldest”](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/when-firstborn-doesnt-mean-oldest/) - Jesus possessed a special place in the heart of His Father, and the Father was delighted to share Him. And so, like the angels, we are invited to worship. - [Show Me the Best](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/show-me-the-best/) - Do you see that Jesus is better? Often we will accept God’s blessings, His healing, His protection, and His love… but struggle to accept His Son. - [Incomplete Labels](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/incomplete-labels/) - In the first chapter of Hebrews, we witness an argument concerning Jesus’ rank above the angels. As we continue, we’ll see that Jesus is greater than angels. - [Much More Better](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/much-more-better/) - The world offers many ways of managing life, but the author of Hebrews tells us Jesus is superior. Jesus is much more better than anything you’ve left behind. - [Consider Jesus](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/consider-jesus/) - When we are depleted of our own strength, we long for guidance. The author of Hebrews offers the ultimate consideration…consider Jesus. - [Fix Your Focus](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/fix-your-focus/) - Jesus designed it so the body of Christ is strongest when together. When hard times come, remind one another to fix all eyes on Jesus. - [Drifting and Desire](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/drifting-and-desire/) - Have you ever been tempted to revert back to that which is comfortable? If so, you’re in good company. The audience of the book of Hebrews struggled too. - [The Power of Letting God Lead You in Prayer](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/the-power-of-letting-god-lead-you-in-prayer/) - The song, God of this City, is sung worldwide. What is the Spirit going to sing in your heart today? Are you listening to what He is going to pray through you? - [Prayer Is an Intimate, Ongoing Conversation](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/prayer-is-an-intimate-ongoing-conversation/) - Just as you walk in the Spirit moment by moment, you can continually pray in the Spirit—even as you go about your day and other duties. - [What Real Prayer Looks Like](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/what-real-prayer-looks-like/) - Prayer is not something you do, it’s something that the Spirit, who is in you, does through you. We don’t even have to use words. - [A Majorly Wrong Assumption About Prayer](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/a-majorly-wrong-assumption-about-prayer/) - Many traditions, teachings, and examples miss the essence of prayer. It is an intimate conversation with the One who passionately loves you and lives in you. - [A Challenge to Rethink Your Prayers](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/a-challenge-to-rethink-your-prayers/) - When was the last time you really considered prayer as it relates to things that we know to be true about who we are in Christ and who Christ is in us? - [The Book That Understands You](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/the-book-that-understands-you/) - Paul says “take up the sword of the Spirit which is the Word of God.” It’s living and active and in the hands of the Holy Spirit and victory over the evil one. - [Cut It Out](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/cut-it-out/) - God’s Word is a weapon against discouragement, despair, and anxiety. I can be used daily to combat life-sucking lies and faith-draining emotion. - [Pierced with His Truth](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/pierced-with-his-truth/) - Jesus said, “Do not worry,” and the Holy Spirit said to me, “Pete, your worry isn't a little personality quirk or sign of commitment." It is not trust or faith. - [Your Best Defense](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/your-best-defense/) - Satan flees not only from the name of Jesus, but he flees from the words of Jesus, too. So plant some of it in your heart and take it up as your defense. - [Cinching Up the Belt of Truth](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/cinching-up-the-belt-of-truth/) - We need Truth as the undergirding reality that holds everything else up. Jesus is where our truth is found. Cinch up that belt of Truth! - [The Best Prayer I Can Pray for You](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/the-best-prayer-i-can-pray-for-you/) - Another year has passed. Pour an extra mug of your favorite drink and watch the fire burn down. Take inventory of who you are in Christ. - [Next Year, Listen Up!](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/next-year-listen-up/) - Lord Jesus, open my ears next year so that I can hear You and enjoy You at every junction when You tell me to turn right or left. Amen. - [What’s in Your Account for Next Year?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/whats-in-your-account-for-next-year/) - This next year, will you rest in Christ and enjoy His presence moment by moment? Or will you latch onto your agenda and fight for it in your own strength? - [Whose Will—Yours or His?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/whose-will-yours-or-his/) - Any action must begin with the resolution to allow Christ to live through us rather than attempting it in our own strength! Our willpower is so limited. - [A Week for You to Think](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/a-week-for-you-to-think/) - This week we look back at the past year and then look ahead into the next year, making bold resolutions about what the next 365 days will be like. - [Go Tell It on the Mountain](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/go-tell-it-on-the-mountain/) - You are highly favored. The Lord is with you. Jesus will be with you always. The promise of His presence is with us. Now, go tell it on the mountain! - [The Real Spirit of Christmas](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/the-real-spirit-of-christmas/) - The spirit of Christmas is a human product; the Spirit of Christ is a divine person. That makes all the difference in the world. - [The Reality of Immanuel](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/the-reality-of-immanuel/) - Christmas is just another day to embrace the incredible love of God and celebrate the reality of His presence in my life. Emmanuel, “God is with us.” - [God with You in This Moment](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/god-with-you-in-this-moment/) - The message of Christmas—the truth about Immanuel—is the same promise that holds true for us today: We are never alone. God promises His presence. - [God with You This Season](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/god-with-you-this-season/) - The Spirit of God has somehow permeated the membranes of our flesh so that He isn’t just with you, but He is in you 24/7/365! - [Christmas Every Day](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/christmas-every-day/) - When we allow Christ to live through us, we take Him to mankind so that Christ might literally touch people through our hands, feet, and voices. - [May It Be as You Say](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/may-it-be-as-you-say/) - May Mary’s faith and obedience be an encouragement to others—like you and me—who find ourselves in places where we think we have nothing to give. - [Giving What You Have](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/giving-what-you-have/) - If you are in Christ, you are holy and pleasing to God, and Christ is in you. Think about that: Christ is in you. He is your life. - [Giving Out of Your Nothing](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/giving-out-of-your-nothing/) - Paul realized his emptiness was an opportunity to experience the fullness of Christ. Is it possible that this was God’s intent all along? - [Between the Sidewalk and the Sky](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/between-the-sidewalk-and-the-sky/) - A simple prayer of thanksgiving! Thank You, God, for the sky, and thank You for the trees. Thank You for the grass. Thank You for the sidewalk. - [Give Thanks. Today.](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/give-thanks-today/) - Lincoln called everyone to a day of “Thanksgiving and Praise”—just as Paul calls those who are in Christ to live lives of continual gratitude. - [The Big Shift](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/the-big-shift/) - It sounds backward, I know. But the key truth is clear: the most fulfilling blessings in life come when we give what we have. - [Where’s Your Heart?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/wheres-your-heart/) - God’s Word identifies a "heart blessing" that will come as we listen to the Spirit and allow Him to do this work of giving through us. - [An Act of Grace](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/an-act-of-grace/) - The Holy Spirit moves us to give and empowers us to do so. As a result, our brothers and sisters in Christ in need are provided for. - [The Thessalonian Thanksgiving](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/the-thessalonian-thanksgiving/) - Are we trying to figure out His perfect plan and missing His will for us now?! God’s will is for us to enjoy Him and talk with Him moment by moment. - [Standing Firm in Your Righteousness](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/standing-firm-in-your-righteousness/) - Satan has no hold on you. That’s the truth. The best he can do is to deceive you of the truth by getting you to ask the wrong question. Stand firm. - [Rags to Righteousness](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/rags-to-righteousness/) - God has made you His righteousness. You can renew your mind and be transformed. How? By refusing the lies of Satan and believing who Jesus made you to be. - [Does It Blow You Away?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/does-it-blow-you-away/) - We have become the righteousness of God in Jesus. Now, each day, we are learning to rest in His righteousness in us and trust His Spirit to live through us. - [The Ultimate Gunnysacker](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/got-gunnysack/) - Jesus is the one Who redeems you from the naked shame of sin. Don’t gunnysack others, and don’t take it when Satan tries it on you! - [You Don’t Have to Live in the Foreshadows](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/you-dont-have-to-live-in-the-foreshadows/) - You can experience today what He foreshadowed in the past. The light of Jesus has caught up with the foreshadow of prophecy and you can live in it today! - [Are You a Streaker, a Worker, or a Little of Both?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/are-you-a-streaker-a-worker-or-a-little-of-both/) - When we hide our sin behind good works it’s called self-righteousness—the counterfeit technique of self-focused behavior modification. - [Dropping Your Guard with Jesus](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/dropping-your-guard-with-jesus/) - Why do I try to hide from You when You know everything?Jesus thank You that intimacy with You is always available… no matter how exposed my sin makes me. - [Your Guidelines for Powerful Daily Living](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/your-guidelines-for-powerful-daily-living/) - What specific things do You want to do through me to be helpful today? Lead me. Guide me. I trust You to do it through me. - [How to Be Ready by Being Hopeful](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/how-to-be-ready-by-being-hopeful/) - The promise of the second coming of Christ means that we have the opportunity to live lives of hope in the grace of God, no matter how bad things get. - [Are You Ready for His Return?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/are-you-ready-for-his-return/) - Being aware that His Spirit lives in us and living in Him is the secret to being ready for the day He comes back to rule and reigns physically. - [Living Life Full Speed Ahead](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/living-life-full-speed-ahead/) - God has given us such simple and powerful instructions for living in grace and freedom. In response to the lies, we are to aggressively live for truth! - [Does What Works Really Work?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/does-what-works-really-work/) - Thank God that through His Scriptures, He has told us the truth. He has provided a new and loving way to anyone who chooses a safe course. - [Putting Your Hope in the Right Place](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/putting-your-hope-in-the-right-place/) - Things are going from bad to worse, and this period of history will end in Christ's fair and righteous judgment, who once and for all set things right. - [How You Can Stay on the Right Path](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/how-you-can-stay-on-the-right-path/) - One of the dominant mottos of our generation goes like this: “It doesn’t matter what you believe, as long as you believe it sincerely.” - [How to Navigate the Dangerous Waters of Life](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/how-to-navigate-the-dangerous-waters-of-life/) - Just as the Navy uses minesweepers, the Christian needs a MINDsweeper. Do you know what dangers lurk deep in your mind? Do you know how to get rid of them? - [How to Make the Most of Each Day](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/how-to-make-the-most-of-each-day/) - I have to admit, I’ve always liked a good debate. But my concern is that we get so caught up in dating and debating that we forget the point. - [Where to Find Strength in These Last Days](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/where-to-find-strength-in-these-last-days/) - Jesus has given plenty of warning, but many who don’t know Him go about their way indifferent or unaware He will intervene. Including believers! - [Living Today in Light of Tomorrow](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/living-today-in-light-of-tomorrow/) - Instead of fruitless predicting, Jesus calls us to “be on the alert” and make the most of the time we have left for things that matter! - [Making Sure You’re Ready for What’s to Come](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/making-sure-youre-ready-for-whats-to-come/) - Jesus will return. He is the ultimate promise keeper. When? I’m unsure but until then… “Don’t let your heart be troubled. Trust in God!” - [Where Are Your Blind Spots?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/where-are-your-blind-spots/) - Sometimes, it's really easy to be deceived by the evil one. Is it possible that you, a believer in Jesus Christ, have been deceived by the Father of Lies, too? - [How to Identify Fact from Fiction](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/how-to-identify-fact-from-fiction/) - There is Truth, and everything else is counterfeit. And the very best way to recognize the counterfeit stuff is by knowing the real stuff. - [How to Continually Nourish Your Mind](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/how-to-continually-nourish-your-mind/) - When a thought enters your mind, and as soon as you recognize it might be a lie, take it captive to Jesus and say, "Jesus, what do You think about this?" - [How to Spot a Lie](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/how-to-spot-a-lie/) - Sin is an imposter. His strategy is introducing thoughts into your mind and making you think they’re yours. We are righteous in Christ, not in ourselves. - [How to Avoid Getting Hooked by Evil](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/how-to-avoid-getting-hooked-by-evil/) - When Satan promises you something, it’s just a lure with a three-pronged hook—the hooks of shame, blame, and consequences. - [Your Greatest Reward](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/your-greatest-reward/) - The Holy Spirit empowers us to produce fruits through us, and then, when all that’s done, He rewards US for all that stuff HE did. - [How You Can Live Life to the Fullest](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/how-you-can-live-life-to-the-fullest/) - Jesus, the Son, saved us by grace. God, the Father, prepares good works in advance for us to do. He gets the horse saddled up for us. Just get on the horse. - [What God Can Do in and Through You](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/what-god-can-do-in-and-through-you/) - Life on earth is hard. Please don’t focus on others and judge their behavior. Respond to the Spirit’s work in you and through you! - [The Moment You Stand Before Christ](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/the-moment-you-stand-before-christ/) - Any flesh, any impure motives, any momentary lapses—even the sin already covered by His blood—will be burned beyond recognition for eternity. - [Who Are You in the Story?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/who-are-you-in-the-story/) - “Smack!” In this story, you’re the last person hired who gets far, far more than he has earned. And friends, this is the best news you could ever hear. - [He Will Never Reject You. Ever.](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/he-will-never-reject-you-ever/) - You are fully known, and yet, if you are in Christ, you are fully, completely, categorically, unwaveringly, absolutely loved. - [The Christian Four-Letter Word](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/the-christian-four-letter-word/) - The judgment seat of Christ is good for us. What will make your judgment beneficial and glorifying? It is “the grace that is reaching more and more people.” - [Your Inescapable Appointment with God](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/your-inescapable-appointment-with-god/) - The judgment seat of Christ. It is definitely “the big moment.” It is the summation, the conclusion, the review of our entire earthly life. Are you ready? - [Clothing Yourself in God’s Armor](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/clothing-yourself-in-gods-armor/) - Through His death on the cross, Jesus destroyed Satan. When we put on the armor of God, we see the defeat Satan has already experienced played out each day. - [Living in Victory Every Day](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/living-in-victory-every-day/) - The evil one isthrashing around after Jesus put a bullet in his head at the cross. Satan’s final defeat is imminent. Soon enough, it will be permanent. - [Your Victory in Jesus](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/your-victory-in-jesus/) - If Christ is in you, the devil can’t hurt you because he has essential limitations. He is a created one, and he’s fighting the Creator of all things. - [The Power You Need to Overcome Evil](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/the-power-you-need-to-overcome-evil/) - No matter what Satan throws at you today, remember that an army of angels battles for you, and the Spirit of Christ is in you. - [Keeping Grace Amazing](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/keeping-grace-amazing/) - Ponder grace regularly so that it never ceases to amaze you that a just and holy God loves you and embraces you because it is His nature and joy to do so. - [Ask Yourself the Question](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/ask-yourself-the-question/) - Jesus is gently holding you in His hands, protecting you, and keeping you secure so that no one and nothing can separate you from Him. This is grace. - [God Helps WHO?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/god-helps-who/) - Doesn’t something deep down inside you feel that God is more likely to help you, love you, accept you, and deliver you if you are trying your hardest? - [You and Mephibosheth](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/you-and-mephibosheth/) - Though we are born in sin as descendants of the enemies of God, God shows us kindness because of Jesus. That’s a picture of “grace.” - [Where Are You Based?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/where-are-you-based/) - Satan loves to keep you wallowing in law—even using the Bible to get you to live by the law and flesh rather than letting Christ live through you by grace! - [Where Are You in the Picture of Grace?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/where-are-you-in-the-picture-of-grace/) - Do you know why we don’t like this passage of Scripture? Because most of us identify with the all-day workers, don’t we? But we are the eleventh-hour worker. - [Is Your Church Off Base?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/is-your-church-off-base/) - A grace-based church chooses to live not by rules but by the Ruler. Their lives are lived through grace and Jesus…not legalism and self. - [Beyond Grace](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/beyond-grace/) - Worldly wisdom says X amount of performance earns X amount of blessings. Grace says God wants our works to be an extension of a grace-based relationship. - [Do You Greet Grace?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/do-you-greet-grace/) - Jesus constantly reminded people that they were recipients of God’s unmerited favor. He challenges us to live in this “grace and peace from God our Father.” - [Watching Your Words](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/watching-your-words/) - Don’t label yourself with anything except the label you have in Christ: an empowered, embraced, adored child of God indwelt with the Holy Spirit! - [Keeping in Step with the Spirit](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/keeping-in-step-with-the-spirit/) - The Spirit lives, and the Spirit leads! Because of your new nature in Jesus, it is more natural for you to walk in holiness than sin. - [Your Nature or Your Nurture?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/your-nature-or-your-nurture/) - Jesus gives you a new nature, and He will perfectly nurture you so that you can walk in His righteousness. You have the heart. You have the Father. - [The Devil Made You Do It?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/the-devil-made-you-do-it/) - “The devil made me do it!” Before we knew about our identity in Christ, it would have been easy to use the same excuse. - [Mirror, Mirror on the Wall](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/mirror-mirror-on-the-wall/) - When the Lord looks at your heart, He sees the new heart given in Christ…pure and alive. Your identity is not based on appearances, feelings, or behavior. - [Tapping into the Power of a Habit](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/tapping-into-the-power-of-a-habit/) - Believe, count, offer… The God-given pattern draws you into dependent intimacy with Him moment by moment and makes walking in holiness a natural habit. - [Living as an Offering](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/living-as-an-offering/) - What tasks are you facing? Where do you feel inadequate for the challenges in front of you? Surrender and offer your body to Him! - [The Awesome Beauty of Christ in You](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/the-awesome-beauty-of-christ-in-you/) - But if you’re like me, your prayers might sound like the words of the man who confessed to Jesus, “I believe. Help my unbelief!” - [Leaping into Your New Existence](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/leaping-into-your-new-existence/) - In Christ by His Spirit, Jesus overcomes the sliver of indwelling sin, the temptation to live in the flesh, and the oppressive burden of living by the law. - [Flesh in Perspective](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/flesh-in-perspective/) - Augustine was right about this. God created us for Himself. He is the “realm” in which we are to live. He is to be the focus of our hearts and minds. - [Figuring Out the Flesh You Battle—Part 3](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/figuring-out-the-flesh-you-battle-part-3/) - Yuck flesh is failure flesh—those who feel they are out after the first three pitches and compare their performance to others always come up short. - [Figuring Out the Flesh You Battle—Part 2](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/figuring-out-the-flesh-you-battle-part-2/) - To overcome sin-struggles, stop doing things in your own strength. You walk in the Spirit, trusting Christ to live through you in all areas. - [Figuring Out the Flesh You Battle](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/figuring-out-the-flesh-you-battle/) - Living in the flesh means living as we did before we had the Spirit. It means to live out of our human resources independently of God. - [Another Good Question](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/another-good-question/) - Do we live in our strength or out of Christ’s strength in us? Living by the flesh is living out of our natural, physical abilities rather than in Christ. - [It All Starts with What You Think](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/it-all-starts-with-what-you-think/) - Are you being transformed by the renewing of your mind about your true nature in Christ? It all starts with your thinking! - [Where’s Your Focus?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/wheres-your-focus/) - We've been tricked into a self-centered struggle to do what’s right rather than a Christ-centered celebration of what He has already accomplished on the cross. - [Raised to New Life](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/raised-to-new-life/) - Do you see yourself alive with Christ, seated with Him in the heavens?! Stop, think, meditate, and then rest in it. I’m telling you, it makes a huge difference. - [It’s Your Choice](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/its-your-choice/) - Being “in Christ” is the real deal! What we think on a heart level determines how we choose to act and respond in a fallen world. - [Check the Fine Print](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/check-the-fine-print/) - We are in Christ and have His Spirit in our spirit. When the world, Satan, flesh, and indwelling sin team up on us, the allure of sin is still a powerful force! - [How to Count Yourself Dead to Sin](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/how-to-count-yourself-dead-to-sin/) - You can choose to walk in intimate dependency with Jesus moment by moment because He is in you! My prayer is that you would own this truth! - [A Little Latin for You](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/a-little-latin-for-you/) - Have hope! The truth can set you free! You ARE posse non peccare. In Christ, new things are possible if you are willing to surrender to the Spirit in you! - [A Question of the Heart](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/a-question-of-the-heart/) - God accepts you by His grace! There’s nothing you can do to make God love you more; there’s nothing you can do to make God love you less. - [The Deception of Separation](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/the-deception-of-separation/) - If you’re a non-believer, you are separated from God by your sin. But once you trust in Christ, you’re in Christ. Your old self died, and your new self lives. - [Your Life, His Story](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/your-life-his-story/) - Our story becomes meshed with His story as one. We are sealed in Him and become one with Him somehow—one plus one equals one. It’s divine mathematics. - [Do You Know?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/do-you-know/) - Our old, unregenerate personhood, the sinner with a heart of a rebel that we were before we knew Jesus, the person who was under bondage to sin, is dead. - [WANTED: Dead and Alive](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/wanted-dead-and-alive/) - This is a spiritual reality, the truth about your identity in Christ—something that only God can do and has done outside the natural realm. - [What’s the Nature of Your Nature?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/whats-the-nature-of-your-nature/) - Being born again requires a deeper and more profound death than anything we can fathom. Exploring that death brings light to our journey of discovering Life. - [And YOU Will Know…](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/and-you-will-know/) - The old song says that the world will know we are Christians by our love. But do you know what? You will know you are a Christian by your love, too! - [Beyond Born Again Babble](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/beyond-born-again-babble/) - Are you boorn again? The fact is that this “born again” thing is not an option. It’s a prerequisite for entering and seeing the Kingdom of God. - [Join the Unburdened Overcomers](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/join-the-unburdened-overcomers/) - The commandments to love, trust, live in Him, and rest in Him give us victory. John says it’s one of the “signs” that we are born of God. - [R U Lost?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/r-u-lost/) - That’s what the “sign” says. If you aren’t sure which way you are going, you might want to stop and ask for some directions. - [How to Know You’re on the Right Track](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/how-to-know-youre-on-the-right-track/) - If you are born again, and you are trusting Christ to live His life through you, His righteousness will characterize your life! - [The Chicken or the Egg? (Christian Style)](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/the-chicken-or-the-egg-christian-style/) - How about you? Do you get caught up in the “chicken or the egg” debates? It can scramble your mind if you aren’t careful. - [Your Do-Over Is a Done Deal](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/your-do-over-is-a-done-deal/) - Regeneration is God’s work. It’s the ultimate second chance, a one-time heart transplant by God that makes us righteous and just. - [The New You](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/the-new-you/) - When you were physically born, it was a one-time event—a birth date that you celebrate every year. The same is true of your spiritual birthday! - [Your Heart-Level Regeneration](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/your-heart-level-regeneration/) - Regeneration causes a radical resurrection from the dead, a dead spirit coming alive . We are talking about a complete transplant of our innermost being. - [How Would You Answer?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/how-would-you-answer/) - We give to Christ who we are (spiritually dead, guilty sinners), and He gives us everything that He is (righteousness, eternity, Life). - [The Ultimate Do-Over](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/the-ultimate-do-over/) - If we are born again, we are part of the ultimate “do-over” because we’ve been “regenerated." Is there anything better than a second chance? - [For Real](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/for-real/) - Your Word says that if I am in You, I am a new creature, born again through the birth of my spirit through Your Spirit. Live through me today! - [Do You Take It Literally?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/do-you-take-it-literally/) - Transformed spiritual birth gives meaning to what it means to be “in Christ.” Actual spiritual birth that happened when the Spirit came into your spirit! - [Is It About Your Behavior or Your Being?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/is-it-about-your-behavior-or-your-being/) - Born a second time is a supernatural, spiritual event. An internal, instantaneous, radical life transformation takes place in the inner core of who we are. - [Nicodemus and You](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/nicodemus-and-you/) - Nicodemus came to Jesus seeking truth—and Jesus told him, “You must be born again.” He says the same to any of us who come seeking. - [The Prayers of a Branch](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/the-prayers-of-a-branch/) - If you are living in the context of His love, there will be joy, sacrifice, and obedience… and whatever you pray, you will be praying the right things! - [Your Election Questions Answered](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/your-election-questions-answered/) - Election years seem to cook up the worst in all of us: fear, anxiety, uncertainty, and division. A recipe for emotional, spiritual, and mental turmoil. - [When Will the Election Be Won?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/who-will-win-the-election/) - An election in a free country allows us to take the stage, become involved in the play's plot, and vote. So, take your vote seriously. - [Who Will Win the Election?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/when-will-the-election-be-won/) - Is it possible that, during this insane election cycle, our sanity can be preserved by embracing God for who He truly is? Most High, Sovereign One. - [Aslan Is on the Move](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/aslan-is-on-the-move/) - Today, Jesus is on the move. It may be harder to see in an election year, but Jesus still invades people’s lives and transforms hearts. - [Sanity Restored](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/sanity-restored-2/) - Our sanity can be restored, too. Peace and rest can be found in God's love and grace when we acknowledge and trust Him as the Most High. - [Elections Are for the Birds](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/sanity-restored/) - One of the reasons God’s Kingdom exists is to provide a nest, a home for these people—no matter what side of the aisle they’re from. - [Not My Will, but Yours Be Done](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/not-my-will-but-yours-be-done/) - God is putting things in perspective, reminding us that His Kingdom—the Kingdom of God—is far more important than any earthly kingdom we’ve been talking about. - [God’s Leader Guaranteed](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/gods-leader-guaranteed/) - I’m not guaranteeing a godly leader. But I am guaranteeing a leader picked by God—and His pick will be for His glory and our ultimate good. - [How Elections Are Won](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/how-elections-are-won/) - Yes, we cast our votes. We participate in the process. But God and God alone make the sovereign choice of who He will give those kingdoms to. - [Elections in Perspective](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/elections-in-perspective/) - This perspective will help us remain sane during any election. God is infinitely more mighty than any earthly leader, and His kingdom endures forever. - [Your Body and the Eternal Word](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/your-body-and-the-eternal-word/) - Our bodies WILL wither like the grass, BUT God’s words last forever. It’s a paradigm shift that should cause us to reconsider our earthly priorities. - [How to Spot a Counterfeit Voice](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/how-to-spot-a-counterfeit-voice/) - Oh, Life, I am yours. Whatever it is you want of me, I am ready to give. —William Steig, Dominic I haven’t answered the question yet: How can we differentiate between the whisper of sin and the whisper of the Spirit? Sometimes it’s completely obvious that there are counterfeit dollars, and then there are counterfeit - [Dead and Gone](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/dead-and-gone/) - The whisper of sin still teases your thoughts. You are free to ignore it. You can walk with Jesus in His holiness—your holiness—because He’s gifted it to you. - [Name the Misleading Voice](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/name-the-misleading-voice/) - We all have the voice of sin speaking to us. We all hear the voice; we are all tempted. We are all capable of following the misleading voice. - [Name that Leading Voice](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/name-that-leading-voice/) - Not every voice we hear inside our head is the voice of God. There are two strong voices inside us—I call them the leading voice and the misleading voice. - [That Inner Voice](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/that-inner-voice/) - We’re going to learn how to recognize the voice of God, but we’re also going to examine the other voice. If we know what’s at work, then we can work against it. - [Life-Or-Death Decisions](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/life-or-death-decisions/) - Two questions to ask as we discover God’s best for our life, remembering He already knows His best plan for us. Is it out of bounds? Will it help me grow? - [Open and Listening](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/open-and-listening/) - I wonder which is more difficult—hearing God’s voice or submitting to God’s voice? What a privilege it is to hear the inner voice of God! - [The Proper Place for Plans](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/the-proper-place-for-plans/) - All too often, we live as we know best but long for His best. The only way to shift that is to place our mission—our plans and desires—under His mission. - [Getting in the game](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/getting-in-the-game/) - Are you on the court? If you’ve trusted Jesus, the answer is yes. You’re on the court, and His inner voice indwells you. You’ve got all you need. - [Discovering God’s Will](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/discovering-gods-will/) - We aren’t meant to create God’s best for our lives, but instead, we’re invited to discover it. God already knows His will for us. - [Unnecessary Pursuit](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/getting-a-glimpse-of-gods-holiness/) - If the fear of missing out creates an appetite for more, then reflection upon your identity in Christ reminds you of your fullness. - [Only the Lonely](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/your-role-in-the-great-story/) - Let’s learn from Solomon. Accumulators never find true satisfaction. It’s a cheap substitute for the abundant life of the Spirit. - [The Comma of Grace](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/getting-the-full-picture-of-gods-grace/) - Hearing the lie and believing the lie is not simultaneous. Look for the pause—the comma—and refuse to consume what the lie tries to feed you. - [What Are You Afraid Of?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/are-you-clouding-the-issue/) - Have you heard of FOMO, or “fear of missing out? What are you afraid you’re missing? Are you really missing out, or are you buying into the lie? - [The Price of a Lie](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/a-reality-check-for-you/) - If your credit card debt is escalating and you’re not quite sure what to do about it, believe me—you’ve heard the lie, and you’re acting on it. - [Did the Father Forsake the Son on the Cross?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/did-the-father-forsake-the-son-on-the-cross/) - I am finding myself seeing God as more beautiful, more loving, more gracious, and more engaged in the lives of real people… all people. - [‘Til Death Do Us Part](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/til-death-do-us-part/) - As people of grace, we can adopt Jesus’ unchanging stance…love others well and unwaveringly confess how precious marriage is to Jesus. - [Keeping Confidence](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/keeping-confidence/) - I have now been married ten years. I know what it is to live entirely for and with what I love best on earth … All my confidence is bestowed on him, all his confidence is devoted to me. —Jane in Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë Earlier, I introduced a hypothetical friend who accepted Jesus - [Love That Calls Out](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/love-that-calls-out/) - Why would God speak so strongly? Because He loves! God loves us enough to tell us what’s coming. He loves us enough to challenge us to choose faith. - [What Sin Should We Fear Most?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/what-sin-should-we-fear-most/) - What was the sin of Israel in Hebrews 3:16-19? Unbelief. As a result, the Israelites wandered, not able to enter God’s rest, because of their unbelief. - [A Dying Frenzy](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/a-dying-frenzy/) - Where did the idea that sin after salvation cancel salvation? Is there room to lean into our salvation with confident rest? Is knowing Jesus enough? - [What About Today’s Sin?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/what-about-todays-sin/) - Many times we ask the question…Who is the text's intended audience? If it’s written to struggling Christians, then we’re in trouble. - [How Many Times Will We Crucify Him?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/how-many-times-will-we-crucify-him/) - If you want God to know you, you must first know Christ. Are you willing to jump from the edge and into a commitment with Jesus? - [Awkward but Necessary Conversations](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/awkward-but-necessary-conversations/) - We need the context of Christian community. We need a place to share struggles, ask for help, be prayed for, and hear truth. Encouragement comes from community. - [The Secret to More Godliness](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/the-secret-to-more-godliness/) - We don't need to muscle up and try to be more spiritual. We only need to trust in what God has already done and allow Him to be our strength for the day. - [When You’re Failing at Many Things](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/when-youre-failing-at-many-things/) - Think about it! There are 10,000 different roles on earth, but if you are in Christ, you are a child of God. Nothing else matters. - [The Attractive Rebellion](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/the-attractive-rebellion/) - The beautiful life in Christ is so bright it’s attractive to the most skeptical. He’s appealing to them, and they hate it. - [To Cesspool or Not to Cesspool](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/to-cesspool-or-not-to-cesspool/) - I used to be a slave to sin, but everything has changed. The cesspool will never again be my home. I’m not going back. I will follow. - [Rules No Longer Rule](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/rules-no-longer-rule/) - Coming to faith in Jesus is hard enough for some people. Why would we make it more difficult by requiring our tribal rules about language, dress, music, etc.? - [Lies and Love Don’t Mix Together](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/lies-and-love-dont-mix-together/) - Keeping the rules is dangerous because you can actually do it and completely miss out on experiencing Life. - [Is Money Ruling You?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/is-money-ruling-you/) - A great fortune is a great slavery. —Seneca You probably know the Golden Rule: Treat others the way you want to be treated. You’ve probably also heard the more practical version: He who has the gold makes the rules. I’ve got one Golden Rule to add: He who owns the gold is ruled by the - [Open Your Eyes](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/open-your-eyes/) - We make a living by what we get. We make a life by what we give. —Winston Churchill A friend of mine named Bill once took his family to Cabo San Lucas, Mexico on vacation. One night, they hired a taxi to take them out to eat. The driver asked if he could come back - [The Fight for Your Heart](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/the-fight-for-your-heart/) - Perchik: “Money is the world’s curse!” Tevye: “May the Lord smite me with it. And may I never recover!”—from Fiddler on the Roof I think we can all agree that whenever there is a conflict, it’s over something seen as valuable. Sure, sometimes we fight for bragging rights or for mastery of a specific skill, - [Kneading Your Dough into Life](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/kneading-your-dough-into-life/) - No one has ever become poor by giving. —Anne Frank We are constantly bombarded in today’s culture to spend our money on things we “deserve.” But God doesn’t necessarily see money as a tool to bless ourselves; He sees money as our tool to bless others. John Calvin once said, “A man’s opportunities to do - [Your Next Step](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/your-next-step/) - There are multitudes whose life is nothing but a continuous lottery; who are always within a few months of plenty and happiness, and how often soever they are mocked with blanks, expect a prize from the next adventure. —Samuel Johnson If I told you I could push a button right now and transfer a million - [Keeping Your Heart Humble](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/keeping-your-heart-humble/) - I’m not a snob. Ask anybody. Well, anybody who matters. —Simon Le Bon Ephesus was one of the wealthiest cities in the ancient world. If you walk its ancient ruins today, it’s still obvious: Wealthy folks with big houses everywhere. That means the believers probably met in one of the big, beautiful, opulent homes. Wealthy - [When Your Loss Is Gain](https://www.petebriscoe.org/devotionals/when-your-loss-is-gain/) - It is pretty hard to tell what does bring happiness; poverty and wealth have both failed. —Kin Hubbard I have a friend who has a great story about depending on money. He shared it with our church once, and this is about how it went: In 1982, I took a job in California. Being young ## Messages - [The Law Isn’t So Great](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/the-law-isnt-so-great/) - Pete Briscoe talks about how Paul uses the “greater than” approach to tackle an equation of utmost importance to every believer successfully. - [Abiding for a Purpose](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/abiding-for-a-purpose/) - Pete Briscoe shows how simple, rich, deep, and beautiful abiding is and what bearing fruit looks like in the life of a disciple who is abiding in Jesus. - [Standing on the Edge of Faith](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/standing-on-the-edge-of-faith/) - Is it possible to attend church, experience Christianity, and yet remain spiritually dead? Pete Briscoe unpacks one of the most debated passages of Scripture. - [One Bad Moment](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/one-bad-moment/) - Do you self-condemn? Pete Briscoe talks about the road back to intimacy with Jesus after we feel like we’ve disqualified ourselves. - [Jesus, Save Me](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/jesus-save-me/) - Are you drowning in your circumstances? Feeling overwhelmed? Do you need someone to rescue you? Jesus is alive. He’s real. He cares. He loves you. He will save you if you ask. Reach out and say, "Jesus, save me." - [Discover the Real You](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/discover-the-real-you/) - Pete Briscoe helps you sort through this identity conflict so you can find contentment and satisfaction in knowing who you truly are in Christ. - [Embracing Freedom](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/embracing-freedom/) - Have you ever heard people talk about their walk with Christ and wondered how they do it? It seems to be “working” for them; they seem full of confidence and peace, but your walk feels challenging and bumpy. Why do they seem to be living in freedom while you feel chained? What do they know - [Freedom from Our Flesh](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/freedom-from-our-flesh/) - Understand what it means to live a life that overcomes fleshly desires and aligns with the Holy Spirit… entirely depending on Jesus. - [Pondering Christmas](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/pondering-christmas/) - Want to be freed of distractions this Christmas? Experience the significance of Christmas in a way that will impact you every day of your life. - [Experiencing Peace](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/experiencing-peace/) - Peace is hard to find—so how do we find it? Pete takes us through Zechariah’s song in Luke 1 and gives us hope that peace can be found in any season of life. - [If You Want to Grow](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/if-you-want-to-grow/) - Spending time in God’s Word personally while being part of a broader church community is essential to growing spiritually. - [One Person at a Time](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/one-person-at-a-time/) - Pete Briscoe points out the extraordinary ways in which Jesus loved people individually and how you, too, can express love in a practical, meaningful way. - [It's Worth the Awkwardness](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/its-worth-the-awkwardness/) - Being in a tight-knit group is worth the initial discomfort of joining one. There’s a richness found in small groups that can be experienced nowhere else. - [The Danger of Isolation](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/the-danger-of-isolation/) - Isolation is not what God has in mind for us. He designed us for interdependence, both for our benefit and the benefit of others. - [A Secret that Can Change Your Life](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/a-secret-that-can-change-your-life/) - In this message, Pete Briscoe shares what that secret is and how you can step into this incredible aspect of the Christian life. - [What Are You Eating?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/what-are-you-eating/) - Are you tired of stuffing yourself with junk food? If you’re willing to leave junk food behind, joy, peace, and personal spiritual growth are waiting for you! - [Chasing the American Dream](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/chasing-the-american-dream/) - Learn how to stop chasing things that will never satisfy you and trade the American Dream for the real something, a rich and fulfilling life with Jesus! - [Is God Really in Control?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/is-god-really-in-control/) - We turn to the book of Daniel to understand why God allows suffering and find answers about how we can remain hopeful through difficult times. - [Is it OK to Live Together?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/is-it-ok-to-live-together/) - Is sharing living space and sexual intimacy without being married a good idea? Pete Briscoe shares what the Bible teaches on this topic and much more! - [Am I Allowed to Remarry After Divorce?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/am-i-allowed-to-remarry-after-divorce/) - Does the Bible place restrictions on who can get remarried after a divorce? Pete Briscoe unveils what the Bible says on this topic! - [When Is It Time to See a Counselor?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/when-is-it-time-to-see-a-counselor/) - Why is there a negative stigma attached to people who seek counseling? Why don't people want to admit when they need help? - [Is There Equality in Marriage?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/is-there-equality-in-marriage/) - Is it possible that for far too long, the church has been inaccurately teaching the true meaning of Ephesians 5:22? Pete exposes the limited view many hold. - [Thriving in an Unholy Culture](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/thriving-in-an-unholy-culture/) - Pete dissects Hebrews 13 to show us what the church looks like in exile and how to remain steadfast and stand confidently in Christ, no matter the circumstance. - [Life is Better Outside the Camp](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/life-is-better-outside-the-camp/) - Would you rather be in the out crowd with Jesus or in the crowd without Him? Pete encourages us to value our chosen place outside the mainstream camp. - [Redefining Marriage](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/redefining-marriage/) - Pete Briscoe explores five directives from Hebrews 13:1-8 that believers can use as a roadmap when confronted with complex issues. - [God Invites You to the Party](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/god-invites-you-to-the-party/) - God is inviting us to a party where we can find joy in our faith! What’s preventing you from experiencing His incredible gift of grace? - [Is There a Purpose For My Pain?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/is-there-purpose-for-my-pain/) - Do you think God is punishing you because of your sin? Pete talks about the true message of Hebrews 12 regarding the purpose of pain in our lives. - [Getting Your Second Wind](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/getting-your-second-wind/) - Does your Christian life feel like you’re running an uphill race? Pete helps us deal with hindrances to our faith, so we finish the race and enjoy it. - [What Sets Us Apart?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/what-sets-us-apart/) - David covered up his adultery with murder. Yet, he was a peak performer in God’s eyes. Why? What set him and so many others apart? - [Stop Trying To Please God](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/stop-trying-to-please-god/) - Pete shows us what Scripture says about how to please God. You might be surprised to learn that it’s not something we can accomplish through our efforts. - [Who Will Be Judged?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/who-will-be-judged/) - Pete Briscoe highlights a controversial section in scripture, Hebrews 10:26-3. It’s a strong warning for those who’ve turned their back on Christ. - [Stop Living Like an Old Covenant Jew](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/stop-living-like-an-old-covenant-jew/) - Do you live like an Old Testament Jew? In this message, Pete explains what we forfeit when we live like Old Covenant Jews rather than New Covenant believers. - [Indestructible Forgiveness](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/indestructible-forgiveness/) - There is indestructible forgiveness through Jesus. Every act of our unrighteousness has been consumed by one righteous act on the cross—once and for all. - [Where Forgiveness Is Found](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/where-forgiveness-is-found/) - Do you think God’s forgiveness is a matter of apologizing to Him for your sins? Or do you recognize that the blood of Jesus is what washes your sin away? - [Freedom from Guilt and Shame](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/freedom-from-guilt-and-shame/) - Is there sin in your past that keeps you from being intimate with God? Pete talks about finding freedom from guilt, shame, and embarrassment from sin. - [Intimately Loved and Indisputably Forgiven](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/intimately-loved-and-indisputably-forgiven/) - Have you ever wondered why God made a new covenant? Pete Briscoe shows how the age of law has passed and the age of the Son is here to stay. - [Is God Really Committed to Me?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/is-god-really-committed-to-me/) - Have you ever been gripped by fear and wondered if God could change His mind about you? Pete Briscoe looks at the ultimate promise of God. - [Can I Lose My Salvation?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/can-i-lose-my-salvation/) - How do I know my salvation is secure? Pete Briscoe gives you the answer as to why you can, and should, have full assurance of your salvation. - [Baby Bottle Faith](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/baby-bottle-faith/) - What is your spiritual age? Pete Briscoe talks about the risk we face if we fail to continue to deepen our understanding of who Christ is. - [Saints Who Sin](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/saints-who-sin/) - How could a perfect God possibly empathize with a sinful person? Pete Briscoe details why you can stop hiding and approach Jesus with confidence and boldness. - [Hiding Your Sin](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/hiding-your-sin/) - Pete Briscoe unpacks Scripture regarding our response when tempted to sin, fallen into sin, or feeling condemned by past sin. - [The Promise of Rest](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/the-promise-of-rest/) - Can you abandon your desire to strive in your own strength and find rest in His hands? Pete Briscoe talks about the promise of rest available to all believers. - [A Warning to the Religious](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/a-warning-to-the-religious/) - Are you dabbling around the edge of belief in Jesus? Pete Briscoe shares a warning for church-going nonbelievers who continue to live with religious hearts. - [Free Access to Jesus](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/free-access-to-jesus/) - Pete Briscoe points us beyond the Temple as the meeting place with God to the indwelling Christ, where we have access to Him anywhere and anytime! - [Was Jesus Afraid to Die?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/was-jesus-afraid-to-die/) - What was Jesus thinking about as He died on the cross? Was He tempted to fear death? Pete Briscoe dives deep into the topic of fear and death. - [Why is There Persecution?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/why-is-there-persecution/) - Why does Jesus allow persecution to happen when He has the authority to stop it? Pete Briscoe walks us through Scripture to find an answer. - [Freedom for Rule-Followers](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/freedom-for-rule-followers/) - Are you trying so hard to please God by following rules? Pete challenges us to move from being church-goers to Christ-knowers. - [Jesus' High Rank](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/jesus-is-high-rank/) - Do you have a complete understanding of Jesus? Pete Briscoe reviews the descriptions of Jesus from Hebrews 1 to help us understand who He is. - [Jesus is Better](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/jesus-is-better/) - Are you unmovable in your faith? You can be when you know the truth. And that’s what we have in Jesus. A truth that can transform us from the inside out! - [How to Share Your Hurts](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/how-to-share-your-hurts/) - When spouses keep unresolved issues to themselves, it's like filling a gunnysack. The more hurts are stuffed into it, the heavier it gets. - [One Flesh](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/one-flesh/) - God created sex, and He had something much more extraordinary in mind. God meant for sex to be between husband and wife and for it to be amazing. - [Becoming a Spirit-Led Spouse](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/becoming-a-spirit-led-spouse/) - Couples always ask this: What's the key to a great marriage? The answer: two people walking in the Spirit, loving one another. - [Choosing to Lose Wins in Marriage](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/choosing-to-lose-wins-in-marriage/) - You know the saying, "Won the battle but lost the war." Pete teaches from Philippians on how to achieve real victory in marriage by being willing to lose. - [The Darker It Gets the Brighter We Shine](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/the-darker-it-gets-the-brighter-we-shine/) - In the last chapter of Daniel, we learn why God allows persecution and the eternally important role God has for us as we wait for His return. - [What Happens at the End?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/what-happens-at-the-end/) - Pete shares extraordinary and terrifying end-of-time events and why you can be confident about the glorious outcome for believers who persevere. - [This is Our Future](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/this-is-our-future/) - Pete Briscoe shares troubling news of events yet to happen and shows us why we can put our fears aside—even when persecution overshadows Christians. - [The Unseen Battle](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/the-unseen-battle/) - In Daniel 10, we get a behind-the-scenes peek at what spiritual warfare looks like from the perspective of the angel that appeared to Daniel. - [Freedom from Self Condemnation](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/freedom-from-self-condemnation/) - Have you screwed up this week? Desperate for God's mercy and grace? Want to know how to rise above your self-condemnation after a moment of sinful insanity? - [God Will Keep His Promise](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/god-will-keep-his-promise/) - Being a child of God doesn't guarantee us a ride on "easy street," but we have reason to be encouraged that the tough ride will be well worth it in the end. - [Enduring Persecution](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/enduring-persecution/) - Get a glimpse of what eternity will be like and why God's promise that His people will inherit the Kingdom of Heaven should give us the strength to endure. - [Hanging in There](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/hanging-in-there/) - Daniel 7 helps us through the struggle of understanding God's eternal plan and how to persevere until He decides to end the game of life. - [When He Comes](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/when-he-comes/) - This teaching from Daniel 2 will give you four short words that succinctly sum up what really matters about His second coming. - [Getting Through Trials](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/getting-through-trials/) - Daniel 6 provides encouragement for those who despair and wonder where God is when He doesn’t spare us from trials, big or small. - [How Elections Are Won](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/how-elections-are-won/) - Do you agonize over who will win the next election? Learn exactly when and how elections are won or lost and worry less about the entire process. - [Trust Is a Choice](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/trust-is-a-choice/) - Daniel 3 gives us an example of how to surrender our doubts about God and trust Him even when He’s said “No” to us in the past. - [Waiting for Justice](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/waiting-for-justice/) - No matter how many times we live through it, it’s always frustrating to see leaders abuse their power and arrogantly live above the law. Or worse, intentionally revile God and enjoy doing it. Teaching from Daniel 5, Pete Briscoe, reveals a comforting truth for those of us who yearn for justice that will help us - [Kingdom Confusion](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/kingdom-confusion/) - The book of Daniel reminds us to whom our loyalties lie and how that understanding will lead to internal peace. - [Beyond Our Intellect](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/beyond-our-intellect/) - How do we respond in faith even when we don’t understand our circumstances or have any idea of how God is working behind the scenes? - [Christians in Exile](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/a-dream-for-the-church-2/) - The book of Daniel shows Christians how they can successfully live and thrive in changing times, even when the world seems to be spiraling out of control. - [Overcoming What Divides Us](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/overcoming-what-divides-us/) - How do we get our focus back to what matters? We can love each other and serve together regardless of our differences to have a staggering effect on the world. - [Overcoming Our Prejudices](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/overcoming-our-prejudices/) - Pete encourages us to have a conversation with God about any prejudices we need Him to remove from our hearts so He can work through us to love all people! - [Will You Accept Your Next Appointment?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/will-you-accept-your-next-appointment/) - His purpose for your life is to willingly and actively participate in the divine appointments He sets for you! How you respond determines what plays out! - [Overcoming the Fear of Failure](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/overcoming-the-fear-of-failure/) - Pete Briscoe shares a source of power and encouragement that will strip away our fear and free us to share the extravagant love of Jesus confidently. - [Church Leaders Who Abuse Their Power](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/church-leaders-who-abuse-their-power/) - Pete teaches what qualities a spiritual leader should possess and where the church goes from here as he draws from the story of Stephen. - [The Ineffective Church](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/the-ineffective-church/) - If the church is to return to the early days of being an incredibly influential force, the priesthood of believers will all have a part to play. - [Is Church Revival Possible?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/is-church-revival-possible/) - There is an important lesson here for today’s modern church that—if taken seriously—can reverse the trends and produce vibrant, thriving churches once again. - [Exercise Your Giving Muscle](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/exercise-your-giving-muscle/) - We need the attitude about giving described in Acts 4. God is trusting us to help those in need that He’s placed on our hearts, just as the early church did. - [The Calling of Commoners](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/the-calling-of-commoners/) - Are you ordinary? Allow God to work through you—so you can believe and experience how ordinary people in the hands of the Master become extraordinary. - [Can We Experience the Miracle of Healing?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/can-we-experience-the-miracle-of-healing/) - Do you believe God can perform healing miracles? Pete teaches us three reasons to believe in God’s ability to heal and why we should put our doubts aside. - [We're Better Together](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/were-better-together/) - Pete teaches how to avoid the discontentment, despair, and loneliness that isolation breeds and instead step into a rich and fulfilling life. - [Staying On Message](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/staying-on-message/) - We can put aside our anxiousness when we know how to present the Gospel clearly and compellingly. Pete outlines a simple and memorable way to share the Gospel. - [The Day Heaven Broke Loose](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/the-day-heaven-broke-loose/) - There is a reset we desperately need in the church today. If Jesus is to reset us, it all starts with the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives. - [Strengthened Through Prayer](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/strengthened-through-prayer/) - We can continue the work started over 2,000 years ago—to tell the world about Jesus—and boldly do it in the face of persecution. - [Be a Witness](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/be-a-witness/) - We can make a difference in our homes, work, communities, and relationships by living out what Jesus asks of us: to be My witnesses. - [Do Nothing](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/do-nothing/) - What would our lives look like if instead of doing good things for God, we asked the Holy Spirit to do God-things through us? - [Believers on Mission](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/believers-on-mission/) - Pete Briscoe teaches from 3 John to show us the beautiful and simple way that each of us can love the unloved and be on mission to tell others about Jesus. - [What the World Needs from Christians](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/what-the-world-needs-from-christians/) - Pete Briscoe, teaches from 2 John to show us how to walk constantly in love and truth. It’s exactly what this angry and hateful world desperately needs. - [Experience Transformation in Your Life](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/experience-transformation-in-your-life/) - Pete Briscoe teaches about three scriptural truths that once we learn and are convinced of will dramatically change our lives. - [Vibrant and Confident Prayer](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/vibrant-and-confident-prayer/) - Pete Briscoe points out the truths about prayer in the Bible. You’ll experience a vibrant and confident prayer life when you understand these truths. - [Struggling with Doubt](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/struggling-with-doubt/) - Pete Briscoe outlines four truths that eradicate doubt and bring us to a place of confidence in our faith. - [Obedience Isn't a Burden](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/obedience-isnt-a-burden/) - You’ll learn how walking in obedience isn’t a burden but rather a rich experience as you step into what God is inviting you to do. - [Chasing After Love](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/chasing-after-love/) - How do you stop living for God’s love and live in it instead? Learn how to rest in the love He already has for you instead of chasing after it. - [A Dream for the Church](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/a-dream-for-the-church/) - Pete Briscoe outlines God’s dream for the church. This lesson goes beyond the debate of men and becomes an entirely new and fulfilling way of life! - [Deciphering Truth from Lies](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/deciphering-truth-from-lies/) - Pete Briscoe talks about the dangers of false teaching and how, if we’re not careful, Satan can use words to deceive and attack us. - [Overcoming Self-Condemnation](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/overcoming-self-condemnation/) - Pete Briscoe takes us to 1 John to share how we can be freed from self-condemnation and start living in the light of how God really sees us. - [Loving Those Who Have Hurt You](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/loving-those-who-have-hurt-you/) - Pete Briscoe shows us a better way to navigate painful relationships that will radically transform how you relate to difficult people in your life. - [Believers Who Sin](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/believers-who-sin/) - In this message from 1 John 3:4-10, Pete Briscoe teaches where you’ll find hope for victory in your battle against sin. - [The Moment Jesus Returns](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/the-moment-jesus-returns/) - Pete Briscoe will help release you from your fear and anxiety by learning why and how you can live confidently today while waiting for Jesus’ imminent return. - [Detecting False Teaching](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/detecting-false-teaching/) - Pete Briscoe takes you to the answer found in 1 John and shares how to recognize the telltale sign of false teaching and avoid its danger and deceit. - [Flirting with the World](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/flirting-with-the-world/) - Pete Briscoe shows us what’s at stake when we maintain a flirtatious relationship with worldly things. - [Distorted Love](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/distorted-love/) - Is there ever a check in your spirit about whether you’re really a Christian? Pete Briscoe lifts the burden of doubt we might carry about our salvation. - [What Happens After You Sin?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/what-happens-after-you-sin/) - Pete Briscoe teaches about life after sin and how you can experience hope, joy, and reconciliation with God. - [Clean from Sin](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/clean-from-sin/) - Knowing which you are makes all the difference in understanding the forgiveness of your sins—past, present, and future. - [Just One Thing](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/just-one-thing/) - Pete Briscoe teaches from 1 John to lead you to that just one thing that provides the freedom you long for and the rest you need! - [Arguments Don't Transform Lives](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/arguments-dont-transform-lives/) - Gun control, human rights, police brutality, government corruption—these are perplexing and difficult issues to discuss. What’s happening in our country and how are we as Christians supposed to react? Especially when our faith response can often place us in situations where arguments easily flare and lead to even further disparity. In this message, Pete Briscoe - [The White Space](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/the-white-space/) - Are you living in the white space? Have you chosen to stop marching, but you haven't really started dancing yet? In this in-between space, you might realize that you have the freedom to say, "I don't have to..." but you haven't yet said, "I get to...!" In this in-between space, you might tend to stick - [Good Works](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/good-works/) - Ever do something nice for someone only to have it blow up in your face? Serve in a ministry only to end up tired and burnt out? Give to the church but never see it come back to you? Aren't good works supposed to be good? It could be that your motivation is in the wrong - [Cast Your Vote](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/cast-your-vote/) - We all have a choice: independence or dependence. We can choose independence, our own way, following our flesh and consequently experiencing hatred, envy, discord, fits of rage, selfish actions. Or we can choose dependence on the Holy Spirit, walking with the Spirit and allowing Him to lead us where He wants us, allowing us to - [One Thing](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/one-thing/) - Sometimes, those do's and don'ts of Christianity can be overwhelming when you're marching. After all, there were 613 commandments to keep in the Old Testament law! When you start thinking you have to earn your salvation, it's easy to get overwhelmed by all the rules. But what if there is a simpler way? Living in the - [Is He Showing Yet?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/is-he-showing-yet/) - Have you lost your joy? Feel like you’re faking it in your Christian life, just going through the motions? The church in Galatia did. They became so focused on following the law and keeping certain rituals that they lost sight of Jesus in their lives. In his letter to that church, the apostle Paul provided them - [No Favoritism Here](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/no-favoritism-here/) - Have you ever felt the negative effects of favoritism? Been passed over for a promotion because you're a woman, a different ethnicity, from a different socioeconomic background? We've probably all felt the effects of favoritism in some form, whether racism, elitism, or sexism (feminism or chauvinism). But the Bible is clear: each and every one - [Sons of God](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/sons-of-god/) - Most of us, though we have been given a new primary identity with Christ in our salvation, still live in our original identities. We live as merely human, instead of as a powerful, Spirit-indwelt child of God. In this message, Pete Briscoe challenges us to live out this new identity in Christ as we learn to dance with the Holy - [Why Do We Have the Law?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/why-do-we-have-the-law/) - Do you question the purpose of the law given to us in the Old Testament? If the law is such a burden, if it's outdated, if we are under a new covenant, why do we still have it? Does it still serve a purpose? In this message, Pete Briscoe teaches us why the law is - [The Law Doesn't Help](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/the-law-doesnt-help/) - You don't need to take supplements if your diet is healthy. The same can be said of your relationship with Christ—you don't need to supplement His grace with the law if your walk with Christ is healthy. What Pete Briscoe wants us to learn in this series, is that Jesus is adequate. You don't need supplements. - [Choose Freedom](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/choose-freedom/) - Most of us, if asked, would say that we believe that Christ's grace and sacrifice are sufficient to forgive us. But many of us still act as though we need to obey the law to be saved. In this message, Pete Briscoe encourages us to let go of the burden of the law and take hold - [I'm Depending](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/im-depending/) - Dependent isn’t an adjective most people would want to use to describe themselves. Rather, we would like to be independent, in control. Paul writes about being dependent on Christ as a wonderful and necessary thing for Christian living. It is a privilege! In this message, Pete Briscoe teaches us how dependence on God is a beautiful - [I'm Indwelt](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/im-indwelt/) - We've been told that we have died with Christ and are now indwelt with His Spirit. But what does that actually mean? How do we take hold of Christ's indwelling Spirit and live it out? In this message, Pete Briscoe describes what it looks like to practically live by the Spirit daily, and how we - [I Died](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/i-died/) - Paul tells us that we are free from the law—we were freed when we died with Christ and were reborn into new life with Him. So why do we keep acting like we're still under the law? Why are we still marching when we could be dancing? In this message, Pete Briscoe explains what Paul - [The Normal Christian Life](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/the-normal-christian-life/) - Have you ever wondered what a normal Christian life looks like—what the core aspects of a faith walk are, or why your faith walk looks different from someone else's? In this message, Pete Briscoe seeks to answer these questions by outlining a passage of Scripture that he believes to be the secret to understanding the Bible and - [Dancing When Life Stinks](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/dancing-when-life-stinks/) - It's so easy to dance when everything in your life is rainbows and sunshine, but how do you dance when your world is collapsing? Psalm 118 provides a step-by-step guide to finding joy in even the worst circumstances. Listen as Pete takes you through this powerful Psalm in his series Dance Lessons. Scripture: Matthew 21, Psalm 118 - [Justification and the Cesspool](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/justification-and-the-cesspool/) - Jesus invited us to a dance, and we've turned it into a march of soldiers, always checking to see if we're doing it right and in step and in line with all the other soldiers. —Steve Brown, "A Scandalous Freedom" Are you exhausted from marching in your spiritual life and longing to dance? What's holding you - [Tribal Rules](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/tribal-rules/) - When Jesus breathed, "It is finished," that was it! And yet, it's pretty common to find churches and Christians embracing additional rules that good Christians should follow. You might even be following some of them yourself. Do these tribal rules, as Pete Briscoe calls them, bring people closer to Jesus or keep them away? Are they making you - [I Got It from Jesus](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/i-got-it-from-jesus/) - If you have friends who are not believers, they may ask how you know the Gospel is true. Paul was asked, too. Could he have misunderstood what others told him? Did he have some details wrong? No! Paul received the truth of the Gospel straight from Jesus—not from men! In this message from Pete Briscoe's - [The Good News](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/the-good-news/) - Martin Luther said, "Preach the Gospel to yourself every day." We need reminding sometimes! In this message from Pete's series, Dance Lessons, he turns to Paul's letters to summarize the Gospel message and apply it to everyday life. Who are you in Christ? How does His death and resurrection empower you to overcome sin, trials, and - [There's Oil in Your Coffee](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/theres-oil-in-your-coffee/) - Galatians is different than other letters written by Paul. In every other epistle, he finds something for which to praise the young churches before giving them advice. However, he's so angry with the Galatians that he skips that section all together. Why? In a single word—legalism. It had infected their churches, and even today, it - [He Has Set Us Free](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/he-has-set-us-free/) - There's a story told that Abe Lincoln purchased a slave and immediately told her she was free when they walked away. She began to question him: "Free to think what I want? Free to go where I want to go?" When he answered, "Yes," she replied, "Then I think I'll go with you." Do we - [Free to Dance](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/free-to-dance/) - Is Jesus your drill sergeant or your dance instructor? Are you marching along, trying to be good enough, trying to keep in step with everyone else? Jesus is calling you out of the march and into a dance with Him—sometimes messy, sometimes uncoordinated, but always focused on Christ, moved by Life with Him. In this message, - [You Already Have an A](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/you-already-have-an-a/) - Do you remember cramming for tests in school, memorizing facts to ace an "A"? You probably also remember the stress and the pressure to get everything right. Too many believers are living their spiritual lives this same way, trying to earn an "A" by doing and saying all the right things. If that's you, there's - [Ending Favoritism](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/ending-favoritism/) - The world says status, wealth, and acceptance are ingredients to the good life. So we aspire to be the best—placing others in the pecking order as we go. But what does Jesus think about this? Greatness in God’s Kingdom looks a lot different than greatness in the world. For those who have said “yes” to Jesus, - [Who Receives the Glory?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/who-receives-the-glory/) - Do we trust that Jesus will provide for our every need? Our attitude is often: We want it, we want it now, and we’d do anything for it. This voice of our culture builds impatience in our hearts. Jesus grew impatient, too, but only when His disciples attempted to do things that could only be - [We Are Perfectly Incapable](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/we-are-perfectly-incapable/) - Has Jesus ever prompted you to do something far beyond your abilities, and you find yourself thinking, “I just can’t do this?” It leaves us feeling inadequate. However, we should never apply the worldly principle of inadequacy to Kingdom promptings! Throughout the Gospels, Jesus often asked the disciples to do things they were completely incapable - [Effective Where You Are](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/effective-where-you-are/) - Before we knew Jesus, we were living among the dead. But after Jesus gets a hold of us, we are alive, and our life is transformed anew! But what will Jesus do with our new life? We may expect an extravagant calling—maybe to an unreached village abroad or to the alleys of an inner city. However, - [Eligible for Redemption](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/eligible-for-redemption/) - We tend to believe the lie that the worse your sin is, the less eligible for redemption you are. Are you struggling to accept Christ’s redemption because of your sin? When we feel beyond God’s redemption, Jesus has good news for us. In this message, Pete Briscoe encourages us to remember that our sin actually - [United in Spite of Differences](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/united-in-spite-of-differences/) - We may say racism is a thing of the past, but, in many ways, it still infects the body of Christ. And just as a diseased body needs treatment until it’s completely healed, we shouldn’t stop treating racism in Christ’s Body. Jesus went towards those who were different than Him, and He instructs us to - [Issues of Truth and Grace](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/issues-of-truth-and-grace/) - The topic of homosexuality has caused devastating divisions in the Church. These divisions are evidence of the evil one in our midst, but how is the evil one dividing us? In this message, Pete defines the issue as a difference between truth and grace—some of us lean toward truth, others toward grace. The Spirit in - [Love Your Enemies](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/love-your-enemies/) - Enemies. We’ve all got them. They irritate us, hurt us, and bring out the worst in us. But as a new creation in Christ, what do you do with your enemies? Jesus assumed we’d have enemies, and His direction to us is blatant, but it’s an action only possible through Him. Scripture: Luke 6:27 - 6:36 - [Extending Grace to Rule-Breakers](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/extending-grace-to-rule-breakers/) - The Church is called to love a world of rule-breakers. But are we rule-keepers unable to love the rule-breakers? Jesus’ way of loving rule-breakers may shock us. In this message, Pete explores how Jesus can love them through us. Scripture: Luke 6:1 - 6:11 - [Life to the Full](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/life-to-the-full/) - Are you a messy person? The truth is we are all messy people living in a messy world. Sometimes we attempt to camouflage the clutter of our lives instead of dealing with it. Ever wonder what Jesus might think of our messy lives? Thankfully, He sees beyond our junk and isn’t concerned about us transforming - [In Step with the Father](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/in-step-with-the-father/) - When was the last time you stole away to a quiet, secluded place to pray? Chances are it’s been a while. But quiet time is essential for any thriving relationship. Jesus craved alone time with the Father, so He often withdrew from the crowds and disciples to spend time in prayer. How will your relationship - [A Personal Invitation](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/a-personal-invitation/) - We have a primary calling in life to be a child of God, but we all have a secondary calling as well. This secondary calling is a personal one to be an instrument in God’s work. But how do we know what that personal calling is? It takes an invitation. In this message, Pete shares - [Overcoming Distractions](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/overcoming-distractions/) - There are certain things worth dropping everything for. This was true in the life of Jesus, and it’s true in our lives as well. Jesus recognized many things as important, but He also knew what was most important. If Christ is dwelling within us, then His priorities will be our priorities. In this message, Pete - [Authority Over Enemies](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/authority-over-enemies/) - The forces of evil are real, and they can petrify us. But a simple truth can give us hope: In the presence of a greater strength, bullies become wimps. In the presence of Jesus, demons become weak at the knees. Only in the power of Jesus, then, do we have strength and authority to face - [You Have a Purpose](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/you-have-a-purpose/) - Why are we here? What is our purpose? Jesus in us defines our calling, our being, and our mission on earth. In this message, Pete shares how Jesus demonstrated purpose in His own life, and how He creates purpose in us too. Scripture: Luke 4:14 - 4:30 - [Overpowering Temptation](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/overpowering-temptation/) - Alone, depleted, and tempted—we’ve all been there, including Jesus. Jesus knew to say “no” to temptation and “yes” to the will of the Father. In this message, Pete answers the question, “What will Jesus do in us when we are tempted?” Scripture: Luke 4:1 - 4:13 - [Staying Married](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/staying-married/) - How do we keep the promise of "I do" when we're overwhelmed with the feeling of "I can't"? In this message, Pete Briscoe deals with the difficulties we face in keeping our marriages together. Scripture: Matthew 19:1 - 19:9 - [Surrendered to Intimacy](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/surrendered-to-intimacy/) - There's one thing that every married Christian couple has that allows them to have a better sex life than anyone else! In this message, Pete Briscoe explores how many couples find that the physical intimacy they once craved, now escapes them. But he encourages us that we can gain back our sex lives if we - [Making a Home](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/making-a-home/) - Could it be that our ability to stick together is directly related to our decision to create a healthy and loving distance from our parents? In this message, Pete Briscoe points us to God's road map to marriage—to leave our parents’ home and be united as one. Scripture: Genesis 2:20 - 2:25 - [Gender Differences](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/sticking-together-when-were-pulled-apart/) - If we believe that God made us different for a reason, and he doesn't make mistakes, can we move beyond gender tendencies and embrace our differences in order to enrich our lives? In this message, Pete Briscoe honestly explores how the differences that once attracted us to each other might now irritate and frustrate us. Scripture: Genesis - [Pray Before You Speak](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/pray-before-you-speak/) - No one likes being told what to think. So we shouldn’t be surprised when quarrels erupt over issues like environmentalism, immigration, or health care reform. It’s easy to find yourself in a heated discussion that only leads to strained and broken relationships. In Matthew 10:16—we’re told to be “shrewd as snakes and as innocent as - [Why Is It So Hard to Tell People About Jesus?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/why-is-it-so-hard-to-tell-people-about-jesus/) - We live in a world where moral and immoral ideas, life-giving and life-ending ideas, and liberty-affirming and rights-restricting ideas are all thought to have merit and be worthy of consideration. As a result, claiming that Jesus is the remedy for every hurt, transgression, broken situation, and societal ill is likely be met with a sneer. - [A Strategy to Engage Culture](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/a-strategy-to-engage-culture/) - What do you think about gay marriage? Do you believe Muslims are peaceful or violent people? Do you think abortion is a woman’s right? What strategy will you use to answer tough questions like these? Will you provide a politically correct answer, a faith-based answer, or shrug off the questions and not answer at all? - [Living Through the Scripture Filter](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/living-through-the-scripture-filter/) - Your background, upbringing, education, and community all influence how you view the world. Whether conservative, liberal, man, woman, black, or white, your opinions, thoughts, and responses to local and world events are all colored by these many different filters. But which filter is the correct filter if you follow Jesus? In this message, Pete Briscoe shows us - [You Are God's Ambassador](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/you-are-gods-ambassador/) - As Christians, we know the Gospel message by heart, but when it comes to sharing it with others, we panic. We avoid sharing it because we tell ourselves we’re not gifted or articulate enough. The truth is if we’re in Christ, we are His ambassadors sent to share the good news with everyone. Will you - [You Are Connected to God](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/you-are-connected-to-god/) - How would you describe your relationship to the church? Are you engaged in the church, or have you distanced yourself and feel disconnected? For various reasons, it’s sometimes easy for us to drift away from the church and isolate ourselves. But God’s desire is to build a vibrant, interconnected, and beautiful church—and He wants you - [You Are God's Agent](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/you-are-gods-agent/) - Suffering is inevitable, but when it comes, do you protest and ask, “How could God let this happen to me?” What if, instead of protesting, we embraced suffering? The concept is countercultural, but a powerful thing happens when we embrace suffering—Christ is revealed through us. How will Christ express Himself as you resist the desire - [You Are a Living Saint](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/you-are-a-living-saint/) - We tend to believe we’re “sinners saved by grace.” While it’s true that we are born sinners, we’re in error if, as Christians, we continue to claim that identity. Falsely believing we’re sinners, only leads to a cycle of sinful tendencies. Pete reminds us that in Christ, we are no longer sinners—we are saints! Will - [You Are God's Masterpiece](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/you-are-gods-masterpiece/) - We live in a society that likes to pretend. We often present ourselves in a way contrary to the truth in order to impress others. But when we’re pretending, we’re forgetting that in Christ, we are uniquely, beautifully designed. We are far from unimpressive in God’s eyes! Scripture: Ephesians 2:4 - 2:10 - [You Have a New Identity](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/you-have-a-new-identity/) - How do you see yourself? Has your perception of yourself been negatively influenced by lies from your peers, parents, or society? These lies can easily enslave us, but if we’re in Christ, we have a new, freeing identity in Him. Scripture: 1 Corinthians 3:16 , 1 Corinthians 6:19 - 6:20 - [Listening to the Voice Inside](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/listening-to-the-voice-inside/) - We all have little voices in our heads egging us on to do or don’t do this or that. And if you’re a Christian, you know one of them must be God’s voice—but which one is it? How can you tell which voice is the Spirit’s? It’s easy to get a headache trying to figure - [Knowing God's Will for My Life](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/knowing-gods-will-for-my-life/) - Do you ever hear people say, “God told me to do that,” and think, did He really “tell” you? You hear others claim they know God’s will for their life, but how do you really know what God wants? We can look in Scripture and see, generally, what God wants for His followers, but what - [Jesus Is Extravagantly Generous](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/jesus-is-extravagantly-generous/) - During His earthly ministry, Jesus performed some incredible miracles: turning water into wine, feeding the 5,000, healing the sick, and countless more. All these events point to the fact that Jesus was generous with His actions, gifts, and time in illogical, extravagant ways. He gave above and beyond, and that was just His way. But - [Jesus Is Fierce](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/jesus-is-fierce/) - We all get upset sometimes—with ourselves, with another person, or with our circumstances. It can bring out pretty ugly sides of us all. But do you think this anger is ever appropriate? In the Gospels, we see Jesus as loving, compassionate, gentle, and forgiving, but we also see Him get angry. And when we look - [Jesus Is Cunning](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/jesus-is-cunning/) - Does living as a Christian in this world feel like a never-ending battle? Jesus was born behind enemy lines. He dealt with ridicule, persecution, and many people plotting to kill Him throughout His life. But Jesus knew how to handle Himself in battle, and, knowing His disciples would face a similar fight, He made sure - [Jesus Is Scandalous](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/jesus-is-scandalous/) - Are you too concerned with what others think of you—avoiding situations or changing how you act or respond just to win their approval? Time and time again throughout the Gospels we see how Jesus was unafraid of tarnishing His reputation. In fact, He did things that were seen as outlandish and even scandalous. In this - [Jesus Is Disruptive](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/jesus-is-disruptive/) - Have you ever seen a loved one headed down a path of destruction? Maybe they’ve developed a bad habit or sin pattern and they’re hurting themselves and those around them. What did you do? Did you approach them about it and endure the awkwardness and potential consequences? Or did you choose not to say anything? - [Jesus Is Playful](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/jesus-is-playful/) - Can you imagine Jesus smiling, laughing, and enjoying some casual time with His disciples? Or do you think He was always serious? Some people are convinced that Jesus never had any fun and was somber all the time. If you believe this and you limit your perception of Jesus to a stern teacher, then your - [A Limited Experience of Jesus](https://www.petebriscoe.org/message/a-limited-experience-of-jesus/) - How do you like to spend time with Jesus? Maybe it’s through the study of theology, music, the arts, in solitude, or maybe in nature. But here’s another question to ponder: How willing are you to experience Him in everyday ways? The truth is, our experience of Jesus is limited mostly by the limits we ## Categories - [Uncategorized](https://www.petebriscoe.org/category/uncategorized/) - [Podcast](https://www.petebriscoe.org/category/podcast/) ## Testimonials Categories - [No Media](https://www.petebriscoe.org/testimonials-category/no-media/) - [Has Media](https://www.petebriscoe.org/testimonials-category/has-media/) ## Product categories - [Uncategorized](https://www.petebriscoe.org/product-category/uncategorized/) ## Message category - [Better: A New and Living Way](https://www.petebriscoe.org/messagecategory/better-a-new-and-living-way/) - The author of the book of Hebrews had a specific reason for writing to his audience—to build the case that Jesus is better than the religion they were stuck in. He saw first-hand how these believers were reverting back to living life in bondage and adhering to stringent rules. This series will leave you overwhelmed with the Supremacy of Christ and the freedom waiting for us through Him. Pete skillfully shows how the “new and living way” of Life in Jesus is better than the old and obsolete way of living by the law. For new and mature believers alike, there are delicious and satisfying truths in this series, which if we allow to take hold of our hearts, will bring us and our communities real Life. - [What Will Jesus Do?](https://www.petebriscoe.org/messagecategory/what-will-jesus-do/) - Are you ready to really let go and let Jesus? With our mouths, we readily claim, “Jesus is the answer!” But in our hearts and in our actions, we struggle to embrace in tangible and pragmatic ways the freedom we have in Jesus. Maybe the reason we struggle is because our focus is on trying to imitate Christ—when most of us have no idea what Jesus would do in everyday situations. And even if we do know, we aren’t capable on our own of doing it! So where does that leave us? In this series from the Gospel of Luke, Pete reminds us of a simple truth: The Christian life is not about imitating Jesus. The Christian life is about the indwelling Jesus. So the question is not, “What would Jesus do?” But, “What will Jesus do?” More pointedly, what will Jesus do in you if you let go and rely on Him completely? - [Everyday Jesus](https://www.petebriscoe.org/messagecategory/everyday-jesus/) - Extravagant. Playful. Fierce. Cunning. Scandalous… All words you typically wouldn’t use to describe Jesus, right? Sure, He’s loving, compassionate, gentle, and wise, but have you ever wondered if Jesus cracked any jokes, acted in socially unacceptable ways, or got angry? We have a picture in our mind of who we think Jesus is, based on our training, church background or upbringing. But in the Gospels, we see that Jesus’ character is dynamic and displays emotions not commonly associated with Him. If we’re unaware of the diversity of His personality, we’ll miss out on His fullness and our experience of Him will be limited. In this series, Pete Briscoe takes us through the Gospels to examine Jesus’ multi-dimensional personality. He’ll highlight different characteristics of Jesus that will deepen your connection to Him and make your everyday living all the more rich. - [Identity Defined](https://www.petebriscoe.org/messagecategory/identity-defined/) - How would you define yourself? We live in a world that is constantly trying to define us based on achievement, financial standing, appearance, or popularity. Many of us struggle under the force of these condescending categories, and we end up believing false perceptions of ourselves. In this 6-message series, Pete Briscoe shares how Scripture defines who we are in Christ. He reminds us we are more than any definition society may give us. Pete’s teaching will have you reconsidering who you really are. In Christ, you have a new identity, and if you grasp it, it can change your reality today! - [Hearing the Holy Spirit's Voice](https://www.petebriscoe.org/messagecategory/hearing-the-holy-spirits-voice/) - Is there a decision in your life that you’re grappling with? Do you want to hear what God has to say about it? We face thousands of decisions throughout our lives—some are only minor, but others are life-altering. It’s easy to get overwhelmed and wonder: Is God even interested? And if He is, how do we recognize His voice amidst the noise, clatter and chaos of life? In this series, Pete Briscoe gives practical guidance from Scripture on how you can discern God’s voice, learn His will for your life, and make yourself available to respond to the prompting of the Spirit. - [Living in a Messed Up World](https://www.petebriscoe.org/messagecategory/living-in-a-messed-up-world/) - You might think that we have more intense issues in our world than ever before, but much of the New Testament was written to encourage believers living in similar volatile times. Like us, early believers had to navigate complex social issues while attempting to love their neighbors with varied values and beliefs. So how do we use our voice and still love well…simultaneously? Pete Briscoe answers that question by pointing us to Paul as the perfect example of one who speaks with tender boldness. Pete reminds us that our goal is not to win arguments, but to win people. And to do that, we must avoid falling into the trap of our Christian beliefs being pitted against culture in the public sphere of debate. This series will help you find your voice and confidence to speak with tender boldness in an increasingly messed up world. - [Sticking Together When We're Pulled Apart](https://www.petebriscoe.org/messagecategory/sticking-together-when-were-pulled-apart/) - It used to be that a marriage ceremony was the only glue necessary to keep a couple together. But today, more than ever, marriage is confronted with forces hell-bent on pulling couples apart: The differences that once attracted us, now bug us. The upbringing that once formed us, now divides us. The physical intimacy we once craved, now escapes us. And the forever after we dreamed of, now exasperates us. In this series by Pete Briscoe, he candidly and honestly discusses these issues and takes us to God’s Word to show us how married couples can stick together when they’re being pulled apart. - [The Essence of Christian Living](https://www.petebriscoe.org/messagecategory/the-essence-of-christian-living/) - What would you say is essential to the Christian life? Is it adherence to religious activities you think are important to God like attending church services, volunteering, participating in rituals like baptism or communion, or following a long list of “thou shall nots”? The Apostle John would argue that these things are merely excess activities—they’re not the true essence of Christian living. So then, what is the essence of Christianity? It includes knowing undoubtedly that you’re saved—having an intimate relationship with God, being capable of loving the unlovable, experiencing unspeakable joy in all circumstances, being available to God working through you. This Bible teaching from Pete Briscoe explores the freeing truth found in John’s three letters. Once we peel away all the excess activities we tend to cling to, we can experience the intimacy, assurance, joy, and fulfillment that comes with Christian living the way God intended. - [The Church Needs a Reset](https://www.petebriscoe.org/messagecategory/the-church-needs-a-reset/) - Do you dream of a day when the Church is a leading force in the world? A safe harbor for the lost and hurting, and a place of healing and redemption for everyone to come—just as they are? Jesus tells us in John 14 that it can and will be done, and that the Church will do even greater things than He because of the Holy Spirit. Fast-forward to the book of Acts, and we see the amazing things God accomplished in the early Church through the apostles once the Spirit came upon them. Not only were many people saved—they were accepted, they were healed, they experienced love, and they found their identity and purpose in the Church. Now imagine that kind of passion multiplied by hundreds of millions of Spirit-filled believers worldwide, and the only question left to ask is—why are we so impotent? Taught from the book of Acts, this powerful series from Pete Briscoe shows us how all who believe in Jesus are the conduits to the Spirit’s activity. And His power will be fully unleashed when we allow the Holy Spirit to do God things through us. - [Dance Lessons](https://www.petebriscoe.org/messagecategory/dance-lessons/) - How do you see God? As a strict military drill instructor who expects you to march in sync to a set of shoulds and should nots? Or as a dance teacher who instructs and encourages you to keep your eyes on him even when you trip up? Be honest. If you’re marching, you’re going through the motions rather than embracing the journey God has for you. God wants you to dance! To stop concentrating on the steps and, instead, focus on Him! With joyful abandon! Moved by the Spirit! With overflowing gratitude! Surrendered to whatever He has waiting for you! Are you tired of the ho-hum Christian life? Are you ready to abandon the march and follow wherever Christ leads you? Pete shows you how in this powerful 23-message series from the Book of Galatians. - [Living in Exile](https://www.petebriscoe.org/messagecategory/living-in-exile/) - Kidnapping. Brainwashing. Visions. Wars. End times. It all sounds like the makings of a blockbuster movie, but it describes the real life of someone facing difficult situations well beyond his control, living a life he didn’t expect to live. The book of Daniel is a story of God empowering an individual to persevere, combined with remarkable apocalyptic revelations enlightening us about our future. Daniel provides enormous application for those of us who may feel like outsiders or outcasts, trying to live well in challenging circumstances. In this deep-dive study, Pete Briscoe unpacks how we can thrive through adversity, know God is working behind the scenes for our good, and find deep assurance through a glimpse into the victory awaiting believers. - [Secrets to a Successful Marriage](https://www.petebriscoe.org/messagecategory/secrets-to-a-successful-marriage/) - There’s no shortage of opinions about how to achieve a great marriage. Yet even with all the advice from popular culture, books, movies, and social media, it’s obvious that so many couples are looking in the wrong places for answers about how to not only stay married but how to experience a deeply intimate, enriching, and mind-blowing marriage. What are we missing and why are we failing to achieve successful marriages? No matter how long you’ve been married or how good you think your marriage already is, this series by Pete Briscoe can take your marriage to a divine level of fulfillment and satisfaction. - [Modern Marriage](https://www.petebriscoe.org/messagecategory/modern-marriage/) - As believers in Christ, we’re accustomed to the views of the world colliding with our beliefs. Marriage and premarital relationships are certainly two areas where cultural norms increasingly clash with biblical truth—so much so that it’s increasingly rare to hear teaching on these subjects in the church. Sometimes it’s just easier to avoid awkward topics. But it’s worth pressing through the awkwardness so we can experience God’s best for our relationships. In this series, Pete Briscoe tackles four difficult questions: 1. Is it OK to live together? 2. Is there equality in marriage? 3. When is it time to see a counselor? 4. Am I allowed to remarry after divorce? These messages might cause you, or someone you love who needs to hear them, to feel a bit uncomfortable. But in understanding biblical truth in these areas, there’s opportunity to experience freedom from condemnation and find all the fullness of life God designed for our relationships. - [The Good Life](https://www.petebriscoe.org/messagecategory/the-good-life/) - NEW UPLOAD! When you hear the words “good life,” what comes to mind? Many define it as the success that comes with the right education, career, marriage, or possessions. It sounds appealing, but when we chase after it, we soon realize it’s unattainable. We’re left feeling unsatisfied and incomplete, and we discover it’s nothing but a futile attempt to find life in a lifestyle. But what if there was a life more abundant and satisfying? What if we could be filled with joy and peace, and we could find life to be richer and more fulfilling? In this series, Pete Briscoe reveals the secrets to a better “good life” that is waiting for those who are ready to grow. - [Christmas Sermons](https://www.petebriscoe.org/messagecategory/pondering-christmas/) - [Alive & Free](https://www.petebriscoe.org/messagecategory/alive-free/) - What’s the difference between Christians whose lives look joyful and carefree while others look… well, quite miserable? Is there a secret to living a life of freedom that’s talked about in Galatians? In his series Alive & Free, Pete Briscoe opens God’s Word to show you how you miss out on living alive and free when you’re struggling in one of two areas—you’re either giving in to the lure of sin or you’re scrambling to fulfill all the demands of legalism. Both will leave you living in bondage, disappointed in yourself, and probably believing that God is disappointed in you, too. You’re left longing to be set free. In this 4-message series, Pete shows you that there is a pathway that leads to true Life and freedom in Christ. You’ll find the answers you’ve been praying for, and with the Holy Spirit’s leading, you’ll finally experience the beautiful life that Christ promises you—alive in Him and free from the trappings of this world! - [Jesus, Save Me](https://www.petebriscoe.org/messagecategory/jesus-save-me/) - Are you drowning in your circumstances? Feeling overwhelmed? Do you need someone to rescue you? Jesus is alive. He’s real. He cares. He loves you. He will save you if you ask. Reach out and say, “Jesus, save me.” - [One Bad Moment](https://www.petebriscoe.org/messagecategory/one-bad-moment/) - After your bad moments—moments when you flat-out blow it—what do you do? Do you isolate yourself? Do you self-condemn? Do you struggle to seek forgiveness and to forgive yourself? In this message from Luke 22, Pete Briscoe talks about the road back to intimacy with Jesus after we feel like we’ve disqualified ourselves. Scripture: Luke 22