Reflections of The Lighthouse

30 Days in James

We're celebrating the launch of a brand new resource, 30 Days in James, written by our very own Dr. Brandon Bower. James is one of the most practical books in the New Testament and is helpful for anyone and everyone dealing with life altering sins. In this episode, Brandon and Jordan discuss the practicality of the book and how they are using this resource at The Lighthouse. 30 Days in James is the first in a series of six 30 Days books that will soon be available. The next one to be published will be 30 Days in Proverbs and will be available in the near future. ---Check out the new resource, 30 Days in James, by Dr. Brandon Bower.Another great resource: What Do I Do Now? A Guide for Those Who Love an AddictLinksWebsiteBlogThriftstore (Instagram)Facebook---MusicRaise You Up (30 Sec)Diego MendezSoundscape Media

Gambling and Casinos

Brandon and Jordan dive into a serious conversation about the proposed casino in Allen County, Indiana. This episode focuses on the detrimental impact of gambling, especially on vulnerable communities, and highlights the importance of stewardship and responsibility from a biblical perspective. They discuss how casinos exploit those struggling with addiction and the consequences that come along with them.Takeaways:The Bible encourages wise and responsible management of finances. Gambling often involves the reckless or extravagant use of resources without planning for the future, which contradicts the biblical call to be prudent stewards of one's wealth.Gambling can often foster an unhealthy attachment to money and materialism. The Bible warns against the love of money and the danger of allowing financial gain to become a god, leading to idolatry. Gambling may perpetuate a focus on wealth rather than on contentment and the true treasures of the Christian faith.Gambling promotes the idea of "quick riches" rather than steady, honest work. This pursuit can encourage greed and a desire for more, which the Bible cautions against. A Christian perspective encourages contentment, patience, and hard work over seeking sudden wealth.Casinos often exploit those who are vulnerable—such as those addicted to gambling or those in financial distress. The Bible calls for compassion and fairness and warns against taking advantage of others’ misfortune or weakness.The Bible encourages believers to exhibit self-control and discipline in all areas of life. Gambling, especially in the context of casinos, can easily lead to addiction and a lack of self-control, which is contrary to the fruit of the Spirit and the call to live a life of moderation.Gambling may lead individuals into temptation, as it can become an addictive habit that leads to poor decision-making. The Bible encourages believers to avoid unnecessary risks and temptations that could harm their spiritual health and well-being.The Bible teaches contentment as a virtue. Gambling, particularly in casinos, often entices people to seek more wealth, which can lead to dissatisfaction and a lack of gratitude for what one has. Christians are called to cultivate contentment in all circumstances.---Check out the new resource, 30 Days in James, by Dr. Brandon Bower.LinksWebsiteBlogThriftstore (Instagram)Facebook---MusicRaise You Up (30 Sec)Diego MendezSoundscape Media

Hope for the Controller

The concept of a controller - someone who seeks to control people, situations and circumstances - is not new to this podcast. In this episode of Reflections of The Lighthouse, Dr. Brandon Bower and Pastor Jordan Bradley revisit, not only what it means to be a controller, but to share the hope that is available for those who find themselves there.Takeaways:The desire for control is a sin and must be confessed.Surrendering your life to God’s control requires relinquishing your control and trusting Christ.Selfish goals lead to a selfish lifestyle.Roadblocks can be beneficial to help us rely on Christ.Check out the new resource, 30 Days in James, by Dr. Brandon Bower.---LinksWebsiteBlogThriftstore (Instagram)Facebook---MusicRaise You Up (30 Sec)Diego MendezSoundscape Media

The Perfectionist

For those who have perfectionistic tendencies, you know the tension it can cause in nearly every aspect of your life, as you constantly strive for it and never succeed in becoming it. In this episode of Reflections of The Lighthouse, Dr. Brandon Bower and Paster Jordan Bradley discuss the grip that perfectionism can have on an individual and the impact it can have on the people around them. Takeaways:The Perfectionist is performance orientedPerfectionism is an idol of the heartPerfectionists have a tendency to manipulate and control othersExcellence and perfection are very different pursuits Sign up for the next Mentorship class at The Lighthouse. Email Pastor Jordan.Check out the new resource, 30 Days in James, by Dr. Brandon Bower.---LinksWebsiteBlogThriftstore (Instagram)Facebook---MusicRaise You Up (30 Sec)Diego MendezSoundscape Media

The Self Life

This episode of Reflections of The Lighthouse delves into the concept of the "self life," exploring how our belief systems, often rooted in lies and selfish motives, dictate our actions and goals. It highlights how these self-centered pursuits, even those disguised as good, can lead us away from God's true purpose. Takeaways:The self life is governed by your belief systemSatan's lies lead to pursuing unbiblical goalsRoadblocks reveal your heartTrue life is found in surrendering yourself to God's controlGet in touch with our hosts:Dr. Brandon Bower at bbower@lhfw.orgPastor Jordan Bradley at jbradley@lhfw.org---LinksWebsiteBlogThriftstore (Instagram)Facebook---MusicRaise You Up (30 Sec)Diego MendezSoundscape Media

The Manipulation of People, Part 2

In this episode, Dr. Brandon Bower and Pastor Jordan Bradley discuss some of the character traits manipulative people tend to display and the reasons why they do so. This episode is the second part of a two-part series on how and why some people manipulate others. If you have not listened to part 1, be sure to do so then come back and listen to part two.Takeaways:A manipulator of people is often seen as unlovingManipulative people often shy away from meaningful relationships for fear of exposure, loss of control, and vulnerabilityAnger is a primary emotion that fuels manipulative peopleThe best way to counteract the desire to manipulate people is to surrender your heart to Christ---LinksWebsiteBlogThriftstore (Instagram)Facebook--- MusicRaise You Up (30 Sec)Diego MendezSoundscape Media

The Manipulation of People, Part 1

Dr. Brandon Bower and Pastor Jordan Bradley explore the motivations behind manipulative behavior, emphasizing that it stems from a desire to exert control over others in order to get our own way. This desire is linked to our human sinfulness and a lack of trust in God's divine plan. Takeaways:Manipulation can manifest in both overt and subtle ways, and can affect relationships profoundly.The manipulation of others is governed by unbelief in God and trust in self.Control is a bondage to pride and fear.True freedom lies in surrendering control to God, as He is the ultimate authority in our lives.Resources mentioned:Slave by John MacArthurWhat Do I Do Now? by Brandon Bower---LinksWebsiteBlogThriftstore (Instagram)Facebook---MusicRaise You Up (30 Sec)Diego MendezSoundscape Media

What Do I Do Now? A Guide for Those Who Love an Addict

In this episode Dr. Brandon Bower highlights the impact of the work done at The Lighthouse in 2024 and introduces listeners to a new resource to help those who love someone struggling with addiction. Takeaways:The Lighthouse achieved an impressive 83% graduation rate in their six-month addiction program, significantly higher than the national average. The Lighthouse distributed over 51,000 pounds of food to families, sharing the Gospel with each family served. Dr. Brandon Bower emphasizes the importance of loving individuals struggling with addiction with the love of Jesus Christ. The new book What Do I Do Now? addresses common questions families have about supporting loved ones with addiction issues. Links referenced in this episode:The LighthouseWhat Do I Do Now?

Control

Are you a control freak? Have you ever tried to grasp for more control when a situation seemed to start slipping away? In this episode of Reflections of The Lighthouse Brandon and Duane explore the issue of control and the problems it poses for a believer.Key topics:Characteristics of a control freakDangers of reliance on selfNew identity in ChristCheck out the Theocast podcast mentioned in this episode: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/theocast/id1071551885---LinksWebsiteBlogThriftstore (Instagram)Facebook---MusicRaise You Up (30 Sec)Diego MendezSoundscape Media

Understanding Idolatry

Idolatry is a sin that began in the Garden of Eden and still rears its ugly head today. But what is idolatry? How do we recognize it and how do we guard against it? In this episode of Reflections of The Lighthouse, Brandon and Duane discuss the roots of idolatry and how it looks in our world today and offer some practical ideas to keep yourself from falling into it. Key topics:Understanding idolatryUnderstanding the gospelSpeaking truth to yourself to face idolatry Check out this resource mentioned in this episode:A Gospel Primer for Christians: Learning to See the Glories of God's Love by Milton Vincent---LinksWebsiteBlogThriftstore (Instagram)Facebook---MusicRaise You Up (30 Sec)Diego MendezSoundscape Media