We’re finally “over the hill”! The big 40!

In this final episode of the series, we take a different perspective on Elijah’s learning experience in the cave. As God brings in the fire, the earthquake, and the wind, He reveals to Elijah that He isn’t in those things.

Maybe you’ve experienced similar situations of emotions and chatter or “earthquakes” in your life. God may not always be in those things, but He wants you to learn how to work through them. Again, He’s that small voice that guides you through situations like that.

Just kind of another way to look at the story. Have a great week everyone!

Picture used is Arenal Volcano in Costa Rica by Guano

Elijah begins to realize that he has to change his perspective. God provides a very teachable moment in this section of the story for Elijah regarding humility. God also gives Elijah an assistant - Elisha, who will go on to provide his own stories and lessons.

We continue with Elijah’s emotional downfall this week. Elijah is finally offered a glimpse of how God works - and it’s not how one would expect. God shows Elijah that sometimes He doesn’t work through big and flashy productions but rather in a small whisper or a gentle breeze.

During times of hardship, often times we simply want to give up. God however wants to bring us through those times of pain, and He provides just enough to get us through.

Physically worn, Elijah was simply down. Maybe you’ve been here before, almost depressed, as you begin to neglect physical needs while being emotionally defeated by what appears to you to be failure. Priorities, patience and faith come hand-in-hand when healing during these times. God promises His grace to us to heal us physically, emotionally and spiritually. Remember, God deeply loves and cares for you and knows exactly what you need; He ministers to us when ministry sucks!

As a continuation of Episode #34, we look into the moment in Elijah’s life when he said, “enough is enough” and was at the brink of quiting. Have you felt that way when serving? Have you felt as if you just can’t go on any further? Have you ever felt like you’re in the “desert” of life? We have to realize that we absolutely cannot focus on ourselves. Keep your eyes focused on Him, and once you do, see what He does!

Ministry, whether it be full-time or not, can be overwhelming at times. This episode, we look more deeply at the story of Elijah and his ministry burn-out. As you’ll see, God was able to encourage and uplift Elijah at a time when, to put it frankly, ministry simply sucked.

We would love to hear from you! Please, please email us at heartburncafe@gmail.com to let us know what you think about this episode or any past episodes! Did something touch you? Do you disagree with something? Do you have another slant on a topic? Do you have a topic you would like to see discussed in the future? By all means, please let us know.

Also, episode #33 didn’t make it to the RSS feed last week, so again I apologize to those who listen with iTunes or another podcast catcher. I went ahead and updated the RSS feed to include both episode #33 and #34. Sorry for the inconvenience!

Finally, Al has a new blog! If you haven’t visited it yet, either go to the contact page on the right or visit Golf Course Discourse. Be sure to check it out!

This week, we take a break from any series to offer encouragement and a challenge for those who may have given up on the Christian life.

At last, we made it! The final “flavor” of Christians - homemade. This episode is a challenge for all of those who may be at a different point in their Christian life. Homemade ice cream takes hard work - it takes churning, time and patience. Likewise, becoming a “homemade ice cream” Christian takes faith, molding, patience, time, maturity - it’s not easy! It might even hurt a little, but in the end, the end product tastes so good!

Truth be told, there are some who come to church on a regular basis that are not Christians. These people can be considered “fat free” because they lack the “fat” of Christianity. There are two kinds of “fat free” people: those who are seeking a relationship with Christ but haven’t found it yet; and those who have grown up religiously but have never made a personal commitment to Christ. Gaining that personal relationship with Christ doesn’t require church membership, or doing good deeds, or paying money to the church. He only requires that you have faith and ultimately accept Him as your Savior. Good stuff!