Blogs

Small groups thrive when the right resources help guide discussion, deepen biblical understanding, and encourage meaningful connection. But leaders often face the same challenge: finding solid, trustworthy, and engaging Bible study material without the burden of cost or complicated licensing.

The good news is that there are several places to access free Christian studies—many of them video-based—designed for groups of all sizes and ages. Real Life Network offers a wide range of series, sermons, and conferences that can easily be adapted into multi-week studies. 

Below are six standout resources you can use immediately, whether you’re leading teens, discipling new believers, or simply searching for biblically sound content to ground your group in Scripture.

1. Truth Rising: The Six-Week Small Group Study

Truth Rising is a documentary confronting the cultural and moral crossroads facing Western society. Through expert insights, historical context, and deep personal stories, the film examines how foundational truths have been severed in today’s world. But the message is not discouraging; the documentary emphasizes courage, hope, and the call for Christians to stand firm in a culture drifting from biblical truth.

Alongside the film, a free six-week small group study is available online. Each session includes Scripture, reflection questions, group activities, and opportunities to apply the material in everyday life. Groups can begin by streaming the documentary on Real Life Network and follow up with weekly discussions using the guide. The free study can be accessed at: https://www.truthrising.com/the-study/

2. Allen Jackson Ministries: Sermon Series Adaptable for Groups

Allen Jackson Ministries provides biblically grounded teaching aimed at helping believers become more fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ. His sermons are available for free on Real Life Network and work exceptionally well for groups because of their clear themes, solid theology, and practical application.

For a ready-made multi-week format, consider the “When Kingdoms Collide” series. Each sermon runs approximately 45–50 minutes, but groups can easily divide a message into two parts, creating a six-week study from three sermons. This approach allows space for discussion, prayer, and application.

Pastor Allen’s messages emphasize repentance, faith in Christ, and bold living, making them well-suited for small groups hungry for depth and direction.

3. Groundworks Ministries with Steve Wiggins: Short, Scripture-Rich Episodes

Groundworks Ministries began in a living room in Southern California and eventually grew into a global community focused on reading and living Scripture daily. Now based in Memphis, the ministry continues to encourage believers through short, Scripture-based podcast episodes from Pastor Steve Wiggins.

Each episode lasts 4–5 minutes, making them ideal for:

• Short weekly devotionals
• Icebreakers to begin group discussion
• Supplemental material during a busy season
• New or developing groups wanting a manageable format

Steve’s style is encouraging and rooted in Scripture, offering insights that spark deeper conversation without requiring lengthy prep. Groups can listen together on Real Life Network and use the biblical passages and themes as launch points for discussion.

Really, you could use any of the podcasts on Real Life Network as group study material, including podcasts from Barry Meguiar, Victor Marx, The Prophecy Pros, ICR’s Creation Podcast, and more.

4. Legacy: Pioneers of the Faith — Timeless Sermons for Today

Real Life Network’s Legacy: Pioneers of the Faith channel gives your group access to sermons from some of Christianity’s most respected teachers, including:

• Billy Graham
• Chuck Smith
• Martyn Lloyd-Jones
• And other influential voices

These messages offer timeless biblical wisdom and stand as rich theological resources for group study. Because each sermon focuses deeply on Scripture and Christian living, leaders can build multi-week studies around themes such as prayer, discipleship, evangelism, the work of the Holy Spirit, or Christian perseverance.

5. Lamps Lit Youth Prophecy Conference: Multi-Week Study for Teens and Adults

If your small group includes teens or young adults—or if your group is interested in biblical prophecy—the Lamps Lit Youth Prophecy Conference provides a strong multi-week learning experience. The two-day event features speakers Jeff Kinley, Todd Hampson, and Pastor Jack Hibbs, who together explore:

• The timeline of future events according to Scripture
• Why biblical prophecy matters today
• How to understand world events through a biblical lens
• How to communicate hope to a generation seeking answers

By focusing on one session per week, you can create a five- to seven-week study that equips participants with biblical understanding and confidence. The sessions are clear, engaging, and accessible for a wide age range.

All sessions are available to stream for free on Real Life Network.

6. Leadership Series: Five Practices of High-Performance Christian Leaders

For groups interested in leadership development, ministry growth, or serving more effectively in the church, the Leadership Series taught by Executive Pastor Dr. Ben Lovvorn is a valuable and free resource. The series focuses on the Five Practices of High-Performance Christian Leaders, all rooted in Scripture.

This series helps develop leaders within your group, including parents and coaches, while strengthening their understanding of how to live out their calling in today’s cultural landscape. Because the content is practical and biblically grounded, this series also works well for ministry teams, church staff, and lay leaders.

Small group programming doesn’t need to be expensive or difficult to find. With the content available on Real Life Network, you can create a meaningful, multi-week experience tailored to the needs of your group. Whether your focus is cultural engagement, leadership, daily Scripture reading, or biblical prophecy, these free studies offer a strong foundation for deeper community and spiritual growth.

Explore free Bible studies, video series, and teaching resources anytime on Real Life Network.

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If the government can print money, why does it still need to borrow? That simple question recently exposed just how broken modern economic thinking has become, and why Americans urgently need biblical truth and common sense when it comes to money.

On this episode of Pirate Money Radio with Kevin Freeman, I’m joined by one of the clearest economic thinkers I know: former six-term Congressman Bob McEwen. Together, we unpack the difference between free markets and socialism, explain why inflation quietly steals from families, and show how Christian finances must be grounded in truth, standards, and personal responsibility.

Stream Pirate Money Radio on the Real Life Network. 

The Problem with Modern Monetary Thinking

One of the most revealing moments in recent economic history came when a top government economist openly admitted confusion about how money works. If money can simply be created, why does debt even matter?

That question exposes the fatal flaw of modern monetary theory: it removes standards.

Bob McEwen explains economics the way farmers, small business owners, and families instinctively understand it, you must produce before you consume. Wealth is not printed. It is created through voluntary exchange, hard work, and service to others.

When the government abandons that principle, confusion replaces clarity—and inflation replaces prosperity.

Free Markets vs. Socialism: Two Very Different Outcomes

Bob McEwen breaks economics down to its simplest truth:
There are only two ways to get money from someone else.

Free Enterprise

• You offer something valuable
• The exchange is voluntary
• Both parties are better off
• Wealth is created

Socialism

• Money is taken through force or policy
• No value is created
• Incentives are destroyed
• Poverty follows

Socialists know how to redistribute wealth, but they don’t know how to create it. History proves this every time. From Detroit to Venezuela, the pattern never changes: the bigger the government, the fewer the choices, and the poorer the people.

Freedom and prosperity always travel together.

Why Printing Money Is a Form of Theft

Inflation doesn’t announce itself with a gun, but the result is the same.When government prints money without restraint, every dollar you hold buys less. That’s not theory. That’s math.

Bob explains money as a representation of past work, a claim on value you’ve already created. When that measuring stick is manipulated, savings are destroyed, wages fall behind, and families lose purchasing power.

That’s why civilizations have always relied on standards, especially gold, as an honest measure of value. Gold doesn’t change. Politicians do.

Truth, Standards, and Biblical Foundations

One of the most powerful moments in this conversation is when Bob connects economics directly to faith. Truth requires a standard. Without it, everything becomes opinion—and opinions don’t protect liberty. America’s founders understood this. They grounded law, money, and markets in biblical principles: individual responsibility, private property, honest weights and measures, and equality before God.

That’s why this conversation isn’t just about economics—it’s about spiritual foundations. When truth is removed, error flourishes. When standards disappear, corruption fills the void.

First, Second, and Third-Party Payers: Why Government Always Wastes Money

Bob McEwen delivers what may be the clearest explanation ever given on why government programs always cost more and deliver less.

First-Party Payer

• You pay
• You consume
• You care about price and quality

Second-Party Payer

• You control only one variable
• Inefficiency begins

Third-Party Payer

• You don’t pay
• You don’t consume
• You don’t care about price or quality

Every government program operates as a third-party payer system. That’s why waste is inevitable, and why bigger government always leads to bigger problems. As Abraham Lincoln warned, government should do only what individuals cannot do better themselves.

Christian Finances Require Biblical Principles

Christian finances must be rooted in stewardship, honesty, and truth, not political promises. Scripture teaches that money reflects character. Faithfulness with “unrighteous mammon” matters. When believers understand economics biblically, they’re equipped to give generously, invest wisely, and resist systems that quietly steal from future generations.

Sound money supports strong families, thriving communities, and enduring liberty.

Final Thoughts: Why Pirate Money Radio Matters

This episode of Pirate Money Radio with Kevin Freeman isn’t about politics—it’s about reality.

Bob McEwen reminds us that economic laws work the same way moral laws do. You can ignore them for a while, but eventually, the consequences arrive.

America’s future depends on whether we return to truth, standards, and biblical wisdom. That starts with understanding money, not as something government creates, but as something people earn.

Stream Pirate Money Radio on the Real Life Network. 

Watch Pirate Money Radio and stay grounded in truth by streaming on Real Life Network.

If you talk to young Americans today, you hear a common refrain: “The American Dream feels out of reach.” Housing is unaffordable, debt is crushing, and many wonder if hard work will ever truly pay off. On Pirate Money Radio, we’ve been unpacking why that feeling exists—and more importantly, what can be done about it through biblical tithing, Christian budgeting, and principled Christian financial planning.

In a recent conversation, I was joined by my friend and colleague Mike Carter to connect the dots between real money, economic justice, faith, and the future of our nation. What we discussed isn’t theoretical. It’s already shaping elections, families, and the direction America will take in the coming decades.

The Growing Cry for Economic Justice and Christian Financial Planning

Economic justice is not a slogan invented by politicians—it’s a biblical principle rooted in Scripture, stewardship, biblical tithing, and sound Christian financial planning. Scripture speaks clearly about fair weights and measures, and history proves what happens when societies abandon them.

Today, many Americans—especially Gen Z—feel locked out:

• Student debt delays adulthood
• Housing prices push first-time buyers toward age 40
• Inflation erodes savings faster than people can earn

As Mike Carter put it, young people are working harder than ever, yet feel like they’re running on a treadmill that never moves forward. That frustration explains why socialist ideas suddenly sound appealing to voters who see no upward mobility.

The Turning Point: Leaving Sound Money Behind

One of the most important turning points in modern American history happened quietly in 1971, when the United States abandoned the gold standard. From that moment on, money became disconnected from anything tangible.

The results have been devastating:

• Exploding national debt
• Persistent inflation
• A widening wealth gap

When Congress can spend without restraint and the Federal Reserve can print at will, the system rewards those closest to the money spigot while punishing average families. This is known as the Cantillon Effect, and it explains why asset holders thrive while wages lag behind.

Mike emphasized that this isn’t just an economic issue—it’s a moral one. Unjust money produces unjust outcomes.

Gen Z, Socialism, and the Search for Hope

We’re seeing something unprecedented: young voters turning out in massive numbers for socialist candidates. Not because socialism works—but because they’re desperate for answers.

Mike and I discussed how policies like rent control and collectivism promise short-term relief but deliver long-term devastation. History—from Venezuela to North Korea—confirms this truth.

When people lose hope in building a future for themselves, they begin voting for government dependency instead of freedom. That’s not compassion—it’s a recipe for bondage.

Family, Faith, and Demographic Destiny

One of the most sobering consequences of economic injustice is its impact on family formation.

• Average age of first marriage is now nearing 30
• First-time homebuyers average around age 40
• Birth rates have fallen below replacement levels

Mike Carter brought a powerful perspective from his years in housing: when people can’t afford homes, they delay marriage. When marriage is delayed, children are delayed—or never born at all.

This isn’t just about economics. It’s about the survival of a culture.

As the late Charlie Kirk so boldly said: “People should get married young and have more kids than they can afford.” That statement cuts against conventional financial wisdom—but it reflects a deeper truth. Families are built on faith, not spreadsheets.

ARC: A Biblical Vision for Economic Justice

Out of these conversations emerged a practical framework we call ARC:

Affordability

Sound money and fair systems make life affordable again—housing, food, and family.

Reward

Free markets reward hard work, innovation, and responsibility—unlike socialism, which punishes effort.

Kindness

The church—not the government—was designed to lift people up through generosity, mentorship, and community.

Mike emphasized that ARC isn’t just a philosophy. It’s a call to action—especially for believers who want to help the next generation thrive.

Why Real Money Still Matters for Christian Budgeting

At Pirate Money Radio, we talk often about gold and silver as real money. Not as speculation—but as honest measures of value.

For families trying to practice Christian budgeting and long-term stewardship, money that holds its value is essential:

• Savings are protected
• Long-term planning becomes possible
• Families regain confidence in the future

Mike shared how more listeners are taking their first steps into gold and silver—not out of fear, but out of prudence.

Choosing Liberty Over Collectivism

History gives us a clear choice:

• Rugged individualism under God, which built America
• Or the false warmth of collectivism, which has failed everywhere it’s been tried

True economic justice doesn’t come from government control. It comes from faith, family, freedom, and honest money.

America still has time to choose wisely—but the window is closing.

Watch Pirate Money Radio and stay grounded in truth by streaming on Real Life Network.

Parents often reach a moment of frustration when trying to find clean cartoons for their children. Even shows labeled “kids,” “family,” or “all ages” on mainstream platforms sometimes introduce themes or humor that feel out of step with what families want for shaping a child’s heart and mind. Many parents find themselves scrolling, filtering, and pre-screening episodes, only to wonder if there’s a better option.

That question often leads to a more direct search: Where can I find clean cartoons for my kids?

More and more families are discovering that Christian streaming platforms provide exactly what they’re looking for: engaging, meaningful, and trustworthy animated programs created with biblical values at the center.

Faith-based cartoons have grown significantly in both quality and variety, offering parents an alternative that reinforces the character and worldview they hope to instill at home.

Why Clean, Faith-Based Cartoons Matter

Cartoons are more than bright colors and quick humor. They shape a child’s understanding of friendship, conflict, respect, courage, problem-solving, and even identity. When a show repeatedly uses sarcasm, celebrates disrespect, or introduces mature ideas too early, children absorb far more than parents realize.

Christian cartoons take a different approach. They are designed to be fun and entertaining, yes—but also thoughtful, purposeful, and spiritually grounded. Their goal is to encourage the kind of growth parents pray for: kindness, integrity, courage, forgiveness, wisdom, and a growing love for God.

Parents don’t choose clean cartoons because they want to shelter their children from everything. They choose them because they want the right things shaping their hearts during their most formative years.

Clean Cartoons Available on Real Life Network

Real Life Network offers a selection of animated shows and films created specifically for children. These titles combine storytelling with biblical ideas, giving families content that is enjoyable, safe, and spiritually enriching.

Superbook

Superbook continues to be one of the most beloved Christian cartoons. In this series, two modern-day kids travel back in time to witness key events in Scripture. The episodes are action-filled and beautifully animated, helping children understand biblical stories in a way that feels exciting and accessible. Parents appreciate its faithfulness and the clear lessons woven into every adventure.

Star-Spangled Adventures

This animated series blends American history with biblical principles. Children learn about important moments and figures in America’s past while also seeing how faith shaped the values of the nation. The tone remains upbeat and educational, making it a great choice for families who want wholesome storytelling with a purpose.

Ryan Defrates: Secret Agent

Kids quickly connect with the high-energy stories of Ryan Defrates, a secret agent who often learns valuable life lessons along the way. Each episode teaches a specific character trait—such as patience, forgiveness, or obedience—through fun missions, humor, and imaginative scenarios. The show keeps children laughing while also helping them grow.

iBible Animated Series

iBible helps children grasp the big story of Scripture through creative visuals and cohesive storytelling. The series presents biblical narratives in a way that is fresh and understandable for young viewers, making it an excellent tool for helping kids see how the events of the Bible fit together.

The Pilgrim’s Progress (Animated Film)

This full-length animated movie adapts John Bunyan’s classic allegory for a new generation. Children follow Christian on his journey toward the Celestial City, learning about perseverance, discernment, and faith. It’s an ideal family movie night pick that carries meaningful spiritual depth.

How Faith-Based Cartoons Differ from Mainstream Kids’ Shows

Parents often notice a shift in tone when switching from mainstream cartoons to Christian ones. Faith-based animation tends to focus on building character instead of relying on mocking sarcasm, chaotic humor, or conflict for the sake of conflict.

Christian cartoons emphasize:

• Respectful relationships
• Clear moral lessons
• Courage and kindness
• Understanding right and wrong
• The importance of listening, obeying, apologizing, and forgiving

Another major difference is consistency. On secular platforms, families must constantly monitor recommendations, autoplay, and related content. One second, a child watches something benign; the next, a preview appears for a show geared toward an entirely different age group.

On a Christian platform, the entire environment is curated with families in mind. Parents can relax, knowing their kids won’t stumble into questionable content.

Why Families Are Choosing Christian Streaming for Their Kids

The shift toward faith-based platforms reflects a deeper desire among families: to create a home culture that reinforces biblical truth. Parents are realizing that the stories their kids watch influence how they think, feel, and behave—and they want those stories to be aligned with what matters most.

Clean cartoons provide:

• A safe alternative to mainstream media
• Entertainment that affirms the values taught at home
• Opportunities for conversations about faith and character
• Peace of mind for parents who don’t have time to monitor every scene

In a world where children face increasing exposure to confusing messages, these cartoons offer clarity and stability.

How Real Life Network Helps Families Thrive

Real Life Network’s mission extends beyond entertainment. It seeks to support families by offering content that encourages learning, strengthens faith, and provides a trustworthy viewing environment. Its animated programs reflect that purpose, giving kids fun stories that reinforce biblical themes in gentle, engaging ways.

Parents using RLN can trust:

• A curated library free from inappropriate themes
• Stories rooted in Scripture or Christian character
• Shows that spark meaningful conversations
• Content that equips children spiritually, not just entertains them

Families no longer have to choose between excitement and safety. RLN brings both together with cartoons designed to inspire and encourage.

Clean, faith-based cartoons for kids are not only available… they’re flourishing! As more parents search for alternatives to mainstream media, Christian streaming platforms continue to grow in creativity, quality, and variety.

For families looking to fill their home with stories that reinforce truth, hope, and strong character, these platforms offer a welcome solution.

Explore wholesome and uplifting kids’ cartoons anytime for free on Real Life Network.

America is facing a crisis few are willing to confront honestly. It isn’t just political. It isn’t just cultural. It’s demographic—and it’s deeply economic. In this special Economic War Room series, we’ve been walking through what Scripture, history, and data all make clear: when families collapse, nations follow.

If you want to protect your family, preserve liberty, and practice biblical stewardship in uncertain times, this conversation matters. This is where Christian financial planning and Christian budgeting intersect with national survival.

Watch Economic War Room with Kevin Freeman and stay grounded in truth by streaming on Real Life Network.

The Four Horsemen and America’s Six Trials by Fire

The Bible tells us plainly that a house divided against itself cannot stand. America, like the “strong man” in Mark 3, has served as a protector of liberty worldwide. But today, coordinated forces are working to weaken, divide, and ultimately dismantle that strength.

In Economic War Room, I’ve used the imagery of the Four Horsemen to describe these threats:

• The Red Horse: Communism, led by the Chinese Communist Party
• The Green Horse: Sharia-based Islamist supremacy
• The Blue Horse: Globalist despotism under institutions like the UN and WEF
• The Yellow Horse: Cowardice, apathy, and greed within our own nation

These forces do not act alone. Together, they fuel six interconnected “trials by fire” that threaten America’s future.

Trial Five: Demographics Is Destiny

Demographics are not political opinions, they are mathematical realities. When a society’s birth rate falls below the replacement level of 2.1 children per woman, that society ages, weakens, and eventually declines. America is now at 1.6.

That means fewer workers, fewer families, fewer churches, and fewer citizens capable of sustaining freedom. Social programs strain, debt explodes, and the wealth gap widens even further. A dying population is easy prey for totalitarian control. This is why demographics matter so deeply to the Economic War Room.

Inflation: The Silent Enemy of Families

Why aren’t young Americans getting married and having children? The number one reason cited today is simple: they believe they can’t afford it. That belief didn’t arise by accident.

Since the U.S. abandoned the gold standard in 1971, the dollar has lost roughly 90% of its purchasing power. Inflation has forced dual-income households, delayed marriage, pushed homeownership out of reach, and made children feel like a financial liability instead of a blessing. Christian budgeting becomes nearly impossible when money itself is dishonest.

Marriage Delay and the Fertility Collapse

For generations, women married in their early twenties. Today, the average age is nearly 29, and rising. Fertility peaks earlier than most people realize, and delayed marriage inevitably means fewer children. This isn’t about blaming individuals. It’s about recognizing a system that punishes families while rewarding debt, speculation, and financialization.

When money is broken, families break.

The Spiritual Roots of the Crisis

This is not merely an economic problem—it’s a spiritual one. As biblical worldview declines, so does obedience to God’s first command to humanity: be fruitful and multiply. Divorce skyrocketed alongside inflation. Abortions rose as children became “too expensive.” Cultural confusion replaced clarity about marriage and family.

Jesus warned us in Luke 16:11 that if we are unfaithful with unrighteous mammon, we will not be trusted with true riches. We are living out that warning in real time.

Central Bank Digital Currency and Control

A shrinking population combined with massive debt invites tyranny.

Central Bank Digital Currency isn’t about convenience—it’s about control. Programmable money allows elites to preserve wealth while restricting the freedoms of everyone else. It is a predictable response to demographic decline and financial collapse.

This is why Christian financial planning must now include protecting purchasing power—not just chasing returns.

Real Solutions: Faith, Families, and Honest Money

The good news is this: demographic collapse is not inevitable.

Solutions exist:

• Restore affordability by protecting purchasing power
• Reward families, not penalize them
• Return to biblical principles in marriage, money, and stewardship
• Teach Christian budgeting that emphasizes saving, giving, and long-term thinking

Transactional gold and honest money systems—what I’ve written about as Pirate Money—can help restore economic justice for young families and give them hope again.

The Role of the Church

John Wesley’s timeless wisdom still applies:

1. Earn all you can ethically
2. Save and invest all you can wisely
3. Give all you can generously

If churches embraced these principles, we could help the next generation marry earlier, build stability, and raise families with confidence instead of fear.

Awareness Is Preparation

Demographics may be destiny—but destiny can be changed. At the Economic War Room, we exist because our enemies see the marketplace as a battlefield. We must do the same—wisely, prayerfully, and courageously.

Watch Economic War Room with Kevin Freeman and stay grounded in truth by streaming on Real Life Network.

Podcasts have become one of the most accessible ways to learn, grow, and stay connected to biblical truth in a busy world. Whether you listen during your commute, on a walk, or while making dinner, the right Christian podcast can offer encouragement and steady your heart in a way few other media can.

As podcasts continue to multiply, listeners want to know which ones remain faithful to Scripture, bring clarity to cultural questions, and offer guidance that is truly helpful for families and new believers. Real Life Network offers a collection of well-produced, biblically centered podcasts that stand out in those areas.

Below are seven top shows—some well-known, others delightfully unexpected—that you can stream for free and incorporate easily into your weekly rhythm.

1. Ignite with Barry Meguiar

Barry Meguiar’s Ignite podcast is full of practical encouragement for believers who want to share their faith confidently. His warm, conversational style helps listeners overcome fear and see evangelism as a natural, joy-filled part of everyday life. Whether he’s sharing stories, offering tips, or speaking from decades of personal ministry experience, Barry equips Christians to live boldly and joyfully for Christ.

Available free on Real Life Network.

2. The Prophecy Pros Podcast

Hosted by Jeff Kinley and Todd Hampson, The Prophecy Pros Podcast offers clear, accessible discussions about biblical prophecy and the future events described in Scripture. Rather than leaning into speculation, the hosts bring biblical grounding, perspective, and steady teaching to topics that often create confusion. The show appeals to listeners who want to understand global events in light of God’s Word.

Episodes stream free on Real Life Network.

3. ICR’s Creation Podcast

The Institute for Creation Research offers a thoughtful podcast exploring the relationship between Scripture and science. Topics range from biology and geology to apologetics, worldviews, and the authority of the Bible. This podcast is particularly helpful for teens, students, educators, and anyone who wants to explore scientific questions with confidence.

Available on Real Life Network.

4. Steve Wiggins: Groundworks Ministries Devotional Podcast

Pastor Steve Wiggins brings Scripture alive through short, insightful daily devotionals. Each episode takes a few minutes to unpack a passage from God’s Word, offering practical application and spiritual encouragement. The brevity of the episodes makes them easy to incorporate into morning routines, school carpools, or lunchtime breaks.

Episodes stream free on Real Life Network.

5. Victor Marx Podcast

Victor Marx brings a unique voice to Christian podcasting through testimonies, interviews, and discussions shaped by global ministry work and real-world challenges. Many episodes feature guests who have endured hardship or trauma, offering listeners powerful stories of perseverance. The show is particularly meaningful for men’s groups, parents, and believers navigating difficult seasons.

Available on Real Life Network.

6. The Jack Hibbs Podcast

Pastor Jack Hibbs’ podcast offers teaching, conversations, and worldview-driven episodes that help believers understand Scripture and apply it to today’s culture. While his sermons are widely known, the podcast format allows for a more conversational approach, often addressing contemporary issues, theological questions, and practical aspects of Christian living.

Streaming free on Real Life Network.

7. Rose Unplugged

Rose Unplugged brings thoughtful, faith-informed commentary on culture, current events, and Christian living. Rose’s interviews and insights appeal to listeners who want substance, depth, and a grounded perspective on the issues shaping today’s world. Her style is warm, clear, and engaging, making the show a strong choice for believers who prefer conversation-driven podcasts with a biblical lens.

Why Christian Podcasts Matter Today

In a cultural landscape full of noise, Christian podcasts provide a steady stream of truth and encouragement. They help believers stay rooted in Scripture, understand the times, and grow in faith no matter how busy life becomes. Whether listeners want deep teaching, worldview discussions, practical discipleship, or quick daily encouragement, Christian podcasts offer something meaningful for everyone.

Why Real Life Network Is an Ideal Place to Stream These Shows

Real Life Network offers a curated environment where every program aligns with biblical truth. Listeners don’t have to sort through questionable recommendations or sift through a sea of content that does not reflect their values. Instead, RLN provides a trusted library of podcasts and talk-style programs that strengthen the heart and mind.

With teaching, interviews, devotionals, and cultural commentary—all free and accessible—RLN gives believers a reliable place to build a healthier media rhythm.

Christian podcasts have become one of the great spiritual tools of our time. For all of us who are learning, growing, teaching, and simply trying to stay anchored in truth, these shows offer substance and encouragement that travel with you wherever you go.

Discover these podcasts and more anytime on Real Life Network.

‍Living Fearless exists to bring clarity where there is confusion and truth where there is silence. I’m Hedieh Mirahmadi, and through this podcast on the Real Life Network, I speak with conviction about the spiritual, cultural, and ideological threats facing our nation today. This is a place where biblical truth is not softened, where hard realities are confronted honestly, and where courage replaces fear in a world increasingly hostile to Judeo-Christian values. Watch now for free and get grounded in truth at RealLifeNetwork.com.

I have lived inside the very world I am warning you about. For more than twenty-five years, I worked on the front lines of America’s fight against Islamic extremism across more than thirty-five countries. I advised governments, built counter radicalization programs, and worked alongside federal agencies including Homeland Security, the Department of Justice, and the FBI. This was not academic work. It was lived experience.

I was raised in a politically conservative Iranian American home and spent much of my adult life as a devout Muslim involved in reformist movements. I believed spiritual reinterpretation could defeat jihadist ideology. That belief gave me access to networks few outsiders ever see, but it also revealed a hard truth. You cannot defeat a spiritual war with policy alone.

It was only when I surrendered my life to Jesus Christ that I fully understood the nature of the battle. Islamism is not merely a religion. It is a political ideology cloaked in spiritual language, driven by conquest, and empowered when the church remains silent. That realization is what brings me here, to this network, and to Living Fearless.

Islam & Christendom in Perpetual War: Phase One

To understand the present, we must confront the past honestly. Christendom once covered the Middle East, North Africa, Greece, Rome, Spain, and much of Europe. These lands were Christian centuries before Islam emerged in the seventh century. The early spread of Islam was not peaceful evangelism. It was military conquest.

After the death of Muhammad, Islamic armies expanded rapidly through force. Christian communities were displaced, churches destroyed, women assaulted, and believers forced to convert, pay heavy taxes, or die. By 732 A.D., Islamic forces had reached deep into Europe before being stopped at the Battle of Tours in France.

For centuries, Christians under Islamic rule faced systemic oppression. This reality led directly to the Crusades, which were not random acts of aggression, but a response to generations of invasion and persecution. While mistakes were made, the historical context matters. Phase One of Islamic conquest was military, territorial, and violent.

That phase ended with the collapse of the Ottoman Caliphate after World War I. But the ideology did not die. It adapted.

Cultural Jihad & Modern Islamist Strategy: Phase Two

When armies failed, the strategy changed. Islamists shifted from swords to systems. This is Phase Two: cultural and civilizational jihad.

The Muslim Brotherhood became the intellectual backbone of modern Islamism, openly describing their mission as a civilizational struggle. Their strategy, known as tamkeen, focuses on planting deep roots within a society through schools, charities, media, mosques, colleges, and eventually government.

I witnessed this firsthand across Europe, the Middle East, and the United States. Cultural jihad operates slowly and intentionally. It reshapes identity before laws ever change. Violence comes later. The mindset comes first.

This ideology spread globally through Saudi funded education, Islamist organizations, and alliances with groups like Hamas, al Qaeda, and political movements across continents. Eventually, it reached the West, embedding itself in universities, nonprofits, courts, and activist networks under the language of civil rights and social justice.

The Rise of Cultural Jihad in the United States

In America, Islamists learned to exploit our freedoms. They work within the system, using our laws, our compassion, and our fear of offending others. Mosques, prisons, charities, student groups, and interfaith initiatives became strategic entry points.

Prisons, in particular, became major recruitment hubs. Student organizations echoed Brotherhood talking points. Lawsuits and public pressure forced institutions to accommodate ideological demands. This was not accidental. It was planned.

Communities in states like Minnesota, Illinois, and Texas reveal the same pattern: trust building first, identity shaping second, political influence last. Cultural jihad does not begin in Congress. It begins quietly, at the community level.

The Islamist Conquest of the U.S. & the Red Green Alliance

Today, Islamism has merged with radical leftism in what is known as the Red Green Alliance. Their end goals differ, but they share one objective: dismantling Judeo-Christian values.

This alliance is visible on college campuses, in city councils, and in Congress. Islamist aligned politicians normalize anti-Israel rhetoric, excuse corruption, and frame America as inherently oppressive. Criticism is silenced by accusations of Islamophobia.

Religious liberty is weaponized. Political ideology is disguised as faith. And institutions partner with these groups without understanding the long-term consequences.

Separate Islam from Muslims: A Call to Clarity, Courage, and Compassion

I want to end where the Gospel always leads us: truth paired with love.

Muslims are not our enemy. They are our mission field. I know this because I was one of them. Islamism thrives on fear and silence. Jesus came to break both.

We must oppose political Islam with courage, while loving Muslims with compassion and clarity. Only the Gospel transforms hearts. Only Christ sets captives free.

This is Living Fearless. And this is why I speak.

Watch Living Fearless on the Real Life Network and share it with someone who needs clarity right now. Download the RLN app and start watching for free at RealLifeNetwork.com. 

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In the early days of online entertainment, Netflix was nearly synonymous with streaming. It offered convenience, an enormous catalog, and a constant flow of new shows and movies. But as viewing habits have evolved, so has the conversation around what families are consuming. Parents and Christian households are increasingly evaluating the moral, spiritual, and emotional impact of what enters the home through television screens and mobile devices.

Many have begun asking a new kind of question: Is there a better option? And more specifically, Why choose a Christian streaming platform instead of Netflix?

Christian streaming is no longer a niche corner of the digital world. It has become a robust alternative for individuals and families who want content that aligns with their faith, strengthens their worldview, and offers a trusted environment without constant vigilance over content filters or parental controls. Understanding the differences between mainstream platforms and Christian services helps clarify why this shift is happening.

1. The Content Priorities Are Entirely Different

Mainstream platforms like Netflix are designed to appeal to the broadest possible audience. That means content often includes dark or cynical themes, rising levels of violence, sexualized material, inappropriate language, and spiritual ideas presented without biblical grounding.

Even shows marketed as family-friendly can introduce content parents would prefer to avoid. In contrast, Christian streaming platforms curate material through a completely different lens. A faith-based platform prioritizes:

• Biblical worldview
• Clean and uplifting entertainment
• Programs designed to encourage spiritual growth
• Storytelling that reinforces hope, redemption, and truth

The entire library is built around a core mission rather than mass appeal. Viewers do not have to wonder what might appear in the next scene or whether a show will undermine the values they work hard to instill in their families.

2. Christian Platforms Remove the Need for Constant Content Policing

Parents know the feeling: sitting with a remote in hand, ready to mute, skip, or stop a show before it exposes their children to something inappropriate. Streaming should reduce stress, not increase it. Choosing a Christian platform means:

• No surprise graphic scenes
• No suggestive themes buried in teen or children’s shows
• No spiritual confusion wrapped in entertainment
• No need to pre-screen every episode

The platform itself acts as the filter, giving families a break from guarding every moment of viewing.

Real Life Network, for example, offers a library intentionally free of disturbing or explicit content, allowing parents to relax and trust the environment their family is watching in.

3. Christian Streaming Prioritizes Spiritual Growth, Not Entertainment Volume

Netflix excels at volume, offering thousands of titles in dozens of genres. But quantity doesn’t always equal meaning. Much of the content is designed to entertain without offering any deeper value. For viewers who want their media habits to reinforce biblical thinking, that wide-open environment can feel spiritually thin. Christian streaming platforms intentionally offer:

• Teaching series
• Documentaries grounded in Scripture
• Programs that help believers understand culture through a biblical lens
• Wholesome feature films
• Children’s shows that point toward faith rather than away from it
• Podcasts and conversations that sharpen understanding

More than entertainment, this content reinforces discipleship, encouragement, worldview formation, and spiritual nourishment.

Real Life Network places this purpose at the center of everything it provides, ensuring that viewers receive not only enjoyment but also edification.

4. Christian Streaming Helps Protect the Hearts and Minds of Young Viewers

Children today face more exposure to complex ideas than any previous generation. Streaming platforms often introduce mature topics earlier than parents anticipate, and even “clean” entertainment can include messages that contradict biblical teaching.

A Christian streaming platform creates a reliable environment for young people by offering:

• Safe, meaningful alternatives to mainstream shows
• Content that reinforces positive choices and character
• Stories that emphasize courage, kindness, faith, and integrity
• A worldview that prepares them to navigate culture thoughtfully

Instead of absorbing constant messages rooted in secular assumptions, children and teens can engage with stories shaped by truth and purpose.

5. Netflix and other major platforms often promote content that conflicts with a Christian worldview

Mainstream platforms prioritize cultural relevance and trending topics, which means their content often reflects values at odds with biblical teaching. This includes how relationships, spirituality, identity, morality, and purpose are portrayed.

While there may be neutral or even uplifting shows on Netflix, the surrounding environment often requires viewers to sift through a great deal of material that works against Christian convictions.

In contrast, Christian streaming platforms intentionally reinforce biblical truth, hope rather than despair, virtue rather than sensationalism, and discernment rather than cultural confusion.

The guiding question for content creation and curation is not “What will attract the largest audience?” but “What will strengthen and encourage people?”

6. Faith-Based Platforms Offer Content You Cannot Find Anywhere Else

Christian streaming platforms are not simply offering sanitized versions of secular shows. They provide content built from the ground up for Christian audiences. This includes:

• Historical documentaries
• Worldview and apologetics programs
• Bible teaching and discipleship series
• Faith-based movies unavailable on mainstream platforms
• Testimonies and stories of transformation
• Prophecy conferences
• Sermons from respected pastors
• Children’s programming that teaches Scripture

Real Life Network, for example, features exclusive content created with believers in mind—programming that Netflix simply does not offer because it is not part of its mission or business model.

7. Christian Streaming Helps Build a Healthier Media Diet

Media shapes the way people think, feel, and interpret the world. Over time, even passive exposure to dark or unsettling entertainment can affect a person’s outlook, peace of mind, and sense of hope.

Choosing a Christian platform doesn’t mean avoiding culture; it means balancing it with content that strengthens the soul. Faith-based streaming encourages peace, encouragement, engagement with Scripture, thoughtfulness about cultural issues, and conversations grounded in truth.

Families often find that replacing even a portion of their mainstream viewing with faith-driven content produces noticeable benefits in their home environment.

Streaming has become one of the most influential forces in shaping worldview, imagination, and daily thought patterns. Choosing a Christian platform instead of—or in addition to—Netflix is ultimately about choosing an environment that aligns with what matters most.

For families wanting entertainment that brings peace instead of concern, conviction instead of confusion, and hope instead of heaviness, faith-based streaming offers a refreshing and necessary alternative.

Explore biblically grounded films, teachings, and family-safe programming anytime on Real Life Network.

Happy New Year from Real Life Network. As we step into 2026, RLN continues its mission to provide truthful, faith-filled, and biblically grounded content through a Christian streaming service built for believers seeking clarity in a world of chaos. With hundreds of episodes and new releases every single day, Real Life Network remains a trusted source for those who want a scriptural perspective on culture, global events, and the issues shaping our lives. For anyone searching for a place where faith meets real world concerns, RLN is the place to begin the new year.

A Biblical Worldview for a Changing World

The world is changing quickly, and with every headline and cultural shift, the need for biblical truth becomes more urgent. That is why RLN enters 2026 with renewed focus on teaching, discipleship, and worldview formation. Whether you want online news through a biblical lens, straightforward commentary on world events, or discipleship content that strengthens your spiritual life, Real Life Network brings it together in one free platform. This year is an opportunity to start strong by filling your home with truth and centering your heart on Jesus Christ.

To begin the year, RLN highlights its most impactful original programming, each designed to equip you with biblical wisdom for daily life. RLN News offers a scriptural perspective on current events and global developments, helping viewers see beyond the noise of mainstream media and into the deeper spiritual realities shaping the world. The Jack Hibbs Podcast continues to deliver bold, uncompromising teaching that challenges believers to live out their faith with conviction, holiness, and courage. And The Daniel Cohen Show brings unmatched insight straight from Israel, connecting culture, geopolitics, and the gospel with clarity and urgency.

Start the Year Anchored in Truth

Real Life Network also invites viewers to explore a full channel dedicated to brand new episodes released throughout the week. Whether you are looking for sermons, family programming, theology content, devotionals, or cultural commentary, the New Episodes Streaming Now channel brings together fresh material that strengthens believers in every season. It is perfect for starting the year with consistency, routine, and a renewed commitment to saturating your mind with the things of God.

2026 will undoubtedly bring challenges, cultural tension, and new global developments, but RLN’s aim remains the same. We want believers to stand firm in truth, grow deeper in Scripture, and anchor their lives in Jesus Christ. In a world filled with shifting values and unstable foundations, the Word of God reminds us there is one sure rock that cannot be shaken.

As you step into this new year, we invite you to make Real Life Network part of your spiritual rhythm. Watch biblical worldview news, listen to teaching that stirs your faith, and stay connected to content committed to truth. May 2026 be a year rooted in Scripture, filled with hope, and anchored fully in Jesus Christ.

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We live in a world drowning in information yet starving for truth. There has never been a generation with more access to data, opinions, facts, voices, teachers, influencers, and experts. People scroll for hours, read constantly, binge videos, chase insights, and collect information by the truckload. Yet despite all this knowledge, our culture is more confused, more deceived, and more spiritually blind than ever before.

Why? Because there is a difference between knowing things and knowing truth. There is a difference between education and revelation. There is a difference between filling your mind and transforming your heart. Biblical knowledge is not about storing information. It is about knowing God, obeying His Word, and living a life shaped by His truth.

Proverbs 1:7 says, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge.” That means true knowledge does not start with you. It starts with God. It starts with recognizing who He is, who you are, and how desperately you need Him. The fear of the Lord is not dread or terror. It is reverence. It is awe. It is humility. It is surrender. And without it, everything else you know is meaningless.

This world applauds intelligence but ignores wisdom. It celebrates experts but rejects truth. It elevates knowledge but despises the God who created it. And because of that, people are lost. They are intelligent but empty. Educated but wandering. Informed but spiritually blind. The knowledge that matters most is the knowledge that draws you closer to God, strengthens your walk with Christ, and protects you from deception. That is the message of Scripture. That is the heartbeat of discipleship. And that is what this devotional will walk you through.

Below are five key truths that show what real, godly knowledge looks like and how it transforms the life of a believer.

True Knowledge Begins With the Fear of the Lord

The Bible is clear that knowledge has a foundation, and that foundation is not human achievement. The foundation of knowledge is the fear of the Lord. Without reverence for God, there is no true wisdom. Without humility before God, there is no real understanding. Without surrender, learning becomes nothing more than self-promotion.

The world defines knowledge as accumulation. God defines knowledge as application. The world says that the more you know, the smarter you are. God says that the more you know Him, the wiser you become. Knowledge that does not begin with God feeds pride. Knowledge that begins with God produces holiness.

Proverbs 1:7 warns us that fools despise wisdom and instruction. A fool is not someone who lacks intelligence. A fool is someone who refuses to acknowledge God. A fool is someone who thinks he can interpret life apart from the Creator of life. A fool is someone who believes his opinions are more trustworthy than God’s Word.When you fear the Lord, you realize that everything you need to know flows from Him. You begin to see the world through His truth instead of through culture. You begin to evaluate everything by His standard instead of by society’s shifting values. You begin to understand that wisdom is not about being right. It is about being righteous.

True knowledge begins with this confession: Lord, You are God and I am not. Teach me Your ways. Show me Your truth. Lead me in Your wisdom.

That posture is where learning begins. That posture opens your heart to the voice of the Holy Spirit. That posture leads you into a life shaped by truth instead of trends. And that posture turns knowledge into transformation.

Godly Knowledge Grows When You Surrender to the Holy Spirit

Many people assume that growing in knowledge is merely an academic exercise. But spiritual knowledge is not learned the same way earthly information is learned. You do not need a degree to grow in godly knowledge. You need the Holy Spirit. The Bible says that the Spirit is our Teacher. He reveals the deep things of God. He brings understanding. He illuminates Scripture. He convicts, guides, directs, and speaks to our hearts. Isaiah 11:2 prophesied that the Messiah would be anointed with the Spirit of knowledge, and that same Spirit now dwells inside every believer.

That means real learning begins with surrender. It begins with humility. It begins with dependence. Before you open the Bible, you pray. Before you study, you ask God to teach you. Before you learn, you yield your heart. Knowledge without surrender produces pride. Knowledge with surrender produces wisdom.

Hosea 4:6 contains one of the most sobering warnings in Scripture. It says, “My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge.” God was not talking to unbelievers. He was talking to His own people. They were destroyed not because the enemy was strong, but because they were spiritually ignorant. They did not know God’s Word. They did not understand His truth. They were vulnerable because they were biblically shallow.

The same danger exists today. The less you know God’s truth, the more easily you will be deceived. The less you know God’s Word, the more confused you will become. The more time you spend listening to culture instead of Scripture, the more your thinking will drift away from God. But when you walk in daily surrender to the Spirit, knowledge becomes a weapon. It becomes a shield against deception. It becomes clarity in a world of confusion. It becomes a light in a dark age. And it becomes strength for your walk with Christ.

Knowledge Becomes Wisdom Only When You Obey What God Reveals

Biblical knowledge always has a purpose, and that purpose is obedience. The goal of learning is living. The goal of truth is transformation. God teaches us so that He can lead us. He reveals truth so we can walk in it. Knowledge without obedience becomes pride. Obedience turns knowledge into wisdom.

James 1:22 warns us not to be hearers of the Word only. When we hear but do not obey, we deceive ourselves. We begin to think that learning alone is spiritual growth. But God says learning is only the first step. Obedience is the evidence.

You can memorize verses, study theology, read commentaries, and listen to sermons, but if those truths do not create repentance, obedience, conviction, and spiritual growth, they become useless. If your knowledge does not make you more like Jesus, then it is not godly knowledge. It is religious noise. Biblical knowledge always leads toward holiness. It always moves you away from sin. It always opens your eyes to deception. It always shapes your character. It always guards your heart. And it always strengthens your walk.

The Pharisees had knowledge. They lacked obedience. They could quote Scripture but did not know the God who wrote it. They could teach the Word but could not live the Word. That is the danger of knowledge without application. Spiritual growth is not about knowing more. It is about obeying what you already know. When you open the Bible, do not ask, “What information can I learn today?” Ask, “What transformation does God want to bring into my life today?”

That is how knowledge becomes wisdom. That is how truth becomes freedom. That is how learning becomes faith. And that is how your life begins to shine with the power of Christ.

True Knowledge Protects You From Deception and Anchors Your Life in Truth

We are living in a time of spiritual confusion. Lies are being packaged as truth. Sin is being marketed as progress. Deception is dressed in tolerance. Entire denominations are abandoning biblical truth. People are applauding what God condemns and condemning what God approves.

This is exactly why God calls His people to grow in knowledge. The more you know Scripture, the more clearly you will see the world. The more you know God’s truth, the less vulnerable you become to deception. The more you study the Word, the easier it becomes to discern good from evil.

Colossians 2:8 warns believers not to be taken captive by philosophy and empty deceit. There are many voices in this world, and not all of them are speaking truth. There are false teachers, counterfeit gospels, corrupted ideologies, and spiritual distractions everywhere. That is why you must be discerning. That is why you must guard your heart and mind. The Bereans in Acts 17:11 give us the perfect example. They listened with an open heart but tested everything against Scripture. They did not accept teaching blindly. They searched the Scriptures daily to confirm the truth. They were hungry to learn, but they were anchored in the Word.

That is what godly knowledge produces. It builds a wall of protection around your mind. It embeds truth into your thinking. It helps you spot deception before it takes root. It equips you to stand firm when culture demands compromise. And it gives you the clarity to navigate a world that is becoming more confused every day. Knowledge protects you. Truth stabilizes you. Scripture grounds you. And when you commit to growing in biblical knowledge, you become unshakable in a world that is shaking.

The Goal of Knowledge Is Not Information. The Goal Is Knowing God.

At the end of the day, the purpose of knowledge is not to make you smarter. The purpose of knowledge is to make you closer to Christ. You were not saved so you could collect information. You were saved so you could know God. Everything you learn should lead you deeper into worship, obedience, and relationship with Him.

Second Peter 3:18 tells us to grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. That is not a suggestion. It is a command. Spiritual growth is not automatic. It requires discipline. It requires time in the Word. It requires prayer. It requires humility. It requires a heart that says, “Lord, teach me. Change me. Shape me.” The more you know God, the more you will trust Him. The more you understand His promises, the more you will rely on them. The more you study His character, the more you will worship Him. And the more you walk with Him, the more your life will overflow with His truth.

Knowledge is not the goal. Knowing God is the goal. And when your pursuit of knowledge becomes a pursuit of Christ Himself, everything in your life changes.

Your decisions change.
Your relationships change.
Your priorities change.
Your desires change.
Your worldview changes.
Your character changes.

The more you know Him, the more you love Him. And the more you love Him, the more your life becomes a reflection of His truth.

Let’s Pray

Father, thank You for the gift of truth. I want to grow in knowledge, not just so I can know more, but so I can walk closer with You. Teach me by Your Spirit. Fill my heart and mind with wisdom from above. Keep me from pride and help me apply what You show me. Let everything I learn draw me into deeper worship and greater obedience. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.

For more content to grow your faith, visit Real Life Network.

Screens are an unavoidable part of life, and today’s families face more entertainment choices than ever. Yet one trend has become increasingly clear: mainstream media is growing more graphic. Scenes that were once considered inappropriate for network television are now commonplace in streaming shows, movies, and even animated programs marketed to teens.

Parents who want to protect their children from unnecessary violence often feel caught between cultural norms and their desire to shield young minds. The question many are asking is whether this level of exposure is healthy, and what alternatives exist for families who want content that edifies rather than unsettles.

Understanding how violent imagery affects children, teens, and even adults is the first step in shaping healthier viewing habits. And as more families seek meaningful, non-graphic entertainment, faith-based platforms like Real Life Network are becoming welcome havens.

The Rise of Violence in Modern Media

Over the last twenty years, violence on television and in film has not only become more frequent, but it has become more explicit. Streaming platforms have pushed boundaries that traditional networks once maintained, introducing darker themes, grittier realism, and scenes designed to shock or provoke.

Several factors contribute to this shift:

• The pressure to keep audiences engaged through intensity
• The popularity of dark, post-apocalyptic, or dystopian storylines
• The influence of horror and action genres on mainstream storytelling
• The demand for “edgier” content to stand out in crowded streaming libraries

Not all conflict is harmful, of course. Stories have always included tension and struggle. The concern arises when violence becomes graphic, celebrated, or normalized to the point where viewers—especially young ones—absorb it without context or caution.

How Violent Content Affects Children and Teens

Researchers have studied the effects of violent media for decades. While findings vary, there is consistent agreement on several key points.

1. Increased Anxiety

Children who watch violent or intense scenes, particularly at night or in binge-style viewing, often experience:

• Heightened worry
• Nightmares
• Trouble sleeping
• Difficulty distinguishing entertainment from reality

Younger children are especially vulnerable because their brains are still developing the ability to process and evaluate emotionally charged material.

2. Emotional Numbing

Repeated exposure to graphic or sensational violence can cause children and teens to become less sensitive to suffering or danger. This “numbing” effect doesn’t make them harmful; it simply dulls their normal emotional responses, making serious situations seem trivial.

3. Stress Responses and PTSD-Like Symptoms

While the word “trauma” should not be used lightly, psychologists note that graphic or disturbing imagery can trigger stress responses similar to those seen in real-life traumatic events. Children with anxiety disorders, past trauma, or high sensitivity are particularly at risk.

4. Difficulty Processing Conflict in Healthy Ways

Entertainment that resolves everything through aggression subtly teaches that force is a first resort rather than a last one. Over time, it can influence how young people understand:

• Anger
• Problem-solving
• Emotional regulation
• Respect for others

These concerns don’t mean that one action movie will harm a child. But consistent exposure over time can shape patterns of thinking and emotional responses without families even noticing.

What About Violence in Video Games?

Video games vary widely, and not every game is harmful. Many are educational, peaceful, or creative. But games that reward aggression or immerse players in graphic imagery can influence how young people process conflict and stress.

Potential concerns include:

• Increased heart rate and stress levels
• Difficulty calming down after play
• Desensitization to violent behavior
• Reduced sleep quality when gaming at night
• Potential addiction patterns connected to adrenaline-driven gameplay

The issue isn’t simply “video games are bad,” but rather how frequently children engage with fast-paced, violent content and how little downtime their minds receive afterward.

But Isn’t There Violence in the Bible?

Yes, the Bible contains accounts of war, persecution, and injustice. These passages are not hidden; they have value and purpose. Scripture is honest about the brokenness of the world and the consequences of sin.

The key difference is this:

Biblical violence is descriptive, not sensational.

It’s presented within moral framework:

• God condemns unjust violence
• Scripture calls believers to peace and self-control
• Violence is shown as the result of humanity’s fallenness, not entertainment
• Biblical narratives point toward redemption, not spectacle

In contrast, modern entertainment often uses violence purely to shock, entertain, or escalate intensity.

Reading about a battle described in Scripture is not the same as watching a graphic portrayal of one. Visual imagery affects the brain differently, especially in children, triggering emotional responses that linger longer and cut deeper.

Are Faith-Based Shows Less Violent Than Mainstream TV?

Generally speaking, yes. Faith-based programming tends to handle conflict with purpose, moderation, and respect for the audience.

These characteristics set faith-driven content apart:

• Less graphic imagery
• No glorification of brutality
• Stories built around redemption, courage, or moral decisions
• Violence (when present) handled with restraint
• Themes focused on hope rather than darkness

This doesn’t mean faith-based production avoids difficult topics. It means they approach those topics with care and a commitment to honoring both truth and viewer well-being.

Families looking for a safer media environment often find that faith-based platforms offer the emotional, spiritual, and developmental benefits that mainstream entertainment lacks.

Why Real Life Network Offers a Safer Alternative

Real Life Network was created for families who want content that builds up rather than tears down. In a culture where violent media is becoming more common, RLN provides a refuge of clean, encouraging, and thoughtful programming.

Here’s what sets it apart:

• No graphic violence
• No sensationalized brutality
• Teaching and stories rooted in Scripture
• Content that promotes emotional health and biblical worldview
• Options for kids, teens, adults, and small groups
• Sermons, documentaries, studies, and conversations centered on truth, not shock value

Parents can know exactly what their children are watching and can feel confident that the material won’t expose young minds to images they aren’t prepared to process.

Whether a family wants animated stories, biblical teaching, worldview discussions, or documentaries with depth but not intensity, RLN provides content that is safe, uplifting, and grounded in truth.

Violence in media isn’t going away, and families can’t avoid every difficult topic. But they can choose what enters the home, what fills the mind, and what shapes a child’s imagination. Faith-based content offers a healthier path—one that brings peace rather than anxiety, strength rather than confusion, and encouragement rather than disturbance.

Explore safe, family-friendly, and biblically grounded content anytime on Real Life Network.

Merry Christmas from Real Life Network. As millions celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ around the world, Real Life Network continues to offer believers a place to grow in faith through biblical worldview content that lifts the heart and centers the soul on the hope of the gospel. The 25 Days of Christmas series on RLN brings sermons, devotionals, worship, and family programs that point clearly to Jesus as the reason for the season. In a world filled with distractions and noise, RLN provides a Christ centered refuge where families can celebrate the message that changed history.

Christmas is a reminder that God stepped into human flesh to save sinners and bring peace to a weary world. That message shapes everything Real Life Network creates. As you gather with family, unwrap gifts, or sit quietly before the tree, RLN invites you to pause and reflect on the miracle of the incarnation and the joy of knowing Christ. The 25 Days of Christmas series was designed to help viewers prepare their hearts with Scripture, worship, and teaching that leads them back to the manger and forward to the hope of the cross and resurrection.

One of the highlights of this year’s collection is a special two day devotional with Daniel and Paige Cohen on December 23 and 24. Filmed on location in Israel, these reflections bring viewers to the very land where Jesus was born. The Cohens share biblical insights, historical background, and heartfelt encouragement while standing in the places where the story of redemption entered human history. Their teaching helps viewers see Christmas not as a distant event but as a real moment in a real place that testifies to the faithfulness of God. These episodes are rich, thoughtful, and perfect for families wanting to deepen their understanding of the Christmas story.

The entire 25 Days of Christmas series brings together trusted voices and pastors who walk viewers through the meaning of Advent, the hope of prophecy, the peace offered through Christ, and the beauty of the gospel. You will find Christmas sermons, worship programs, family specials, music, and short devotionals that fit every moment of your December celebration. Whether you are looking for a quiet moment of reflection or biblically grounded teaching, RLN provides a wide range of content that honors Jesus and strengthens your faith.

Real Life Network continues to be a safe and uplifting place for the whole family. As a privately run Christian streaming platform, RLN is free to proclaim the gospel clearly and offer uncensored biblical worldview programming without pressure from Big Tech or Big Government. Every show, sermon, and series is carefully curated to encourage your walk with Christ and provide content you can trust.

This Christmas, let your home be filled with the peace and presence of Jesus. Stream the 25 Days of Christmas on Real Life Network, enjoy the special devotionals from Israel, and allow your heart to rest in the Savior who came to rescue and redeem.

From everyone at Real Life Network, Merry Christmas, and may your hope remain anchored in Christ today and always.

Laziness is one of the easiest sins to excuse and one of the most destructive to ignore. It rarely shows up in dramatic ways. It rarely announces itself. It grows quietly, subtly, and slowly, creeping into the corners of our spiritual lives until it becomes a real danger to our walk with God. The Bible speaks about laziness with alarming clarity, not because God desires to shame His children, but because He loves us too much to let us drift into spiritual apathy.

In this devotional message inspired by Pastor Jack Hibbs, we take a close look at what Scripture says about laziness, how it affects the Christian life, and why diligence matters so deeply for those who want to follow Jesus faithfully. Laziness is not merely a lack of activity. It is a spiritual condition that, if left unchecked, weakens your walk with God, dulls your discernment, and robs you of the purpose the Lord created you to fulfill.

Below are five essential truths every believer needs to understand about this subtle but serious danger.

The Difference Between Rest and Laziness

Our culture praises nonstop motion. Productivity is celebrated. Burnout is almost expected. Many people live with a calendar so full that they lose sight of why God created rest in the first place. The solution, however, is not to abandon the idea of rest, but to understand it biblically. Rest is God given. Laziness is man chosen.

From the very beginning, God wove rest into the fabric of creation. On the seventh day, He rested as an example to us, not because He needed recovery but because He established a rhythm. There is a holy difference between resting in God and resigning yourself to spiritual passivity.

Laziness, according to Scripture, is the refusal to engage in what God has called you to do. It is not fatigue but avoidance. It chooses comfort over calling and excuses over obedience. Proverbs 21:25 is blunt: “The desire of the lazy man kills him, for his hands refuse to labor.” God is not condemning the tired but convicting the unwilling. A lazy heart begins long before lazy habits form. It starts spiritually. A believer stops praying consistently. Stops opening the Word. Stops exercising spiritual discipline. At first, it seems harmless. But over time, what was once a small decision becomes a dangerous pattern. Laziness leads you to drift far from where God is calling you to stand. Spiritual laziness is not restful. It is corrosive. It weakens your hunger for truth and leaves your soul malnourished. God designed rest to restore your strength. Laziness drains it.

How Laziness Starves the Soul

Proverbs 19:15 says, “Laziness casts one into a deep sleep, and an idle person will suffer hunger.” This is not only hunger of the body. It is hunger of the spirit. A lazy Christian is a starving Christian, not because God withholds nourishment, but because that believer no longer comes to the table. Laziness does not always appear as lying still or doing nothing. Sometimes it looks like busyness with everything except the things of God. You can fill your schedule and still neglect your soul. You can be active and still spiritually asleep. The world celebrates activity, but God evaluates priority.

When spiritual laziness sets in, prayer becomes rare. Scripture becomes optional. Church becomes occasional. Fellowship becomes inconvenient. Service becomes burdensome. Slowly, the joy of the Lord is replaced with disinterest. The fire becomes a flicker. The hunger becomes a haze. This is why the Bible repeatedly warns us to stay awake. Laziness dulls your passion, clouds your vision, and steals the joy that comes from walking closely with the Spirit. It numbs your desire for holiness and blinds you to the opportunities God places in your path.

Some believers mistake this spiritual decline for burnout. But true rest revives your walk. Laziness weakens it. When you find yourself disconnected, disengaged, and spiritually drifting, it is not a sign to withdraw further. It is a sign to return to God with diligence and devotion.

Why Laziness Is a Spiritual Battle, Not Just a Habit

Laziness is not simply a lack of discipline. It is a spiritual condition that reflects what we value and who we serve. We often blame laziness on tiredness or a busy season. But Scripture identifies something deeper. Proverbs 13:4 says, “The soul of a lazy man desires, and has nothing, but the soul of the diligent shall be made rich.” Laziness wants results without responsibility. It wants the reward of spiritual growth without the cost of spiritual effort.

Satan loves spiritual laziness. He does not need to convince you to abandon God outright. He just needs to convince you to delay obedience. A delayed prayer can become a neglected prayer. A neglected prayer can become a forgotten walk. Laziness slowly erodes your convictions until your spiritual life becomes stagnant. And here is the surprising truth: some of the busiest people in the world are spiritually lazy. They fill their hours with noise but neglect the disciplines that matter most. They are busy with everything but the things God has assigned to them. This is spiritual laziness in disguise.

Satan does not always attack with temptation. Sometimes he attacks with distraction. If the enemy cannot make you sin, he will make you busy with the wrong things. It is still laziness if your life is full but your spirit is empty. It is still laziness if you avoid serving God by filling your life with everything else. God has created you to grow, serve, and run with purpose. Laziness fights all of that. The Holy Spirit says, “Get up. Walk with Me.” Laziness whispers, “Later.” Only one of those voices leads to life.

God Calls Every Believer to Diligence and Purpose

Scripture is crystal clear. God did not save you to sit still. He saved you for purpose. Ephesians 2:10 says that we were created in Christ Jesus for good works. These works are not burdens but blessings, assignments God prepared in advance for you to fulfill.

From creation, God established work as part of His design. Before sin entered the world, Adam was called to cultivate and steward the garden. Work is not a curse. It is a calling. Laziness rejects that calling by convincing you that someone else will do it or that it is not worth the effort. A lazy life bears no fruit. It produces no spiritual harvest. It settles for minimum obedience and maximum comfort.

God calls His people to diligence because diligence reflects devotion. Whether you are serving your family, working your job, investing in your marriage, or building your walk with God, diligence is worship. Colossians 3:23 says, “Whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men.” Laziness says, “Give as little as possible.” Diligence says, “Give your best because the Lord is worthy.”

Real love creates action. If you love the Lord, you will show it. You will invest time, effort, and passion into the things that honor Him. First John 3:18 reminds us to love not just with words but with action and truth. Laziness resists the work of God. Love embraces it.

The Call to Rise Up and Run Your Race with Purpose

Hebrews 12:1 reminds us that we are in a race. There is no such thing as a faithful runner who refuses to move. You do not need to outrun others. You just need to obey Jesus and keep moving forward.

Laziness convinces you to quit before you start. It invites you to sit when God is calling you to stand. It tells you that obedience is optional and purpose can wait. But the Christian life is not passive. It is active, intentional, and Spirit empowered.

God has given you gifts to steward, people to love, truth to share, and works to accomplish for His glory. Laziness keeps you from all of it. Diligence empowers you to live out the purpose God has designed for your life. When you choose obedience over comfort, your faith grows. When you choose discipline over distraction, your spirit strengthens. When you choose purpose over passivity, you honor the God who saved you.

The world says freeze. The flesh says relax. The enemy says delay. But the Holy Spirit says move forward. Rise up. Run your race. Walk with God each day with intentionality, devotion, and diligence. You were not created to drift. You were created to follow Jesus with purpose.

Let’s Pray

Father, I confess the areas of my life where I have chosen comfort over obedience. Forgive me for the times I have neglected Your calling, ignored Your prompting, or allowed laziness to shape my choices. Strengthen me to seek You first. Give me diligence where I have been careless and purpose where I have been distracted. Help me to be faithful in Your Word, alert in prayer, and ready to serve You with my whole heart. Use me for Your glory. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.

Joy is one of the most misunderstood gifts in the Christian life. People chase it, lose it, fake it, and try to manufacture it, but real joy cannot be produced by human effort. Real joy never comes from circumstances or emotional highs. Real joy comes from Jesus Christ Himself. It is the supernatural overflow of a life anchored in the presence and promises of God.

In a world filled with anxiety, uncertainty, and constant pressure, God offers His people something radically different. He offers joy that does not break under the weight of trials. He offers joy that remains steady when life shakes everything else apart. He offers joy that is rooted not in what you have, but in who He is.

Philippians 4:4 says, “Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice.” Those three words in the Lord change everything. Joy is not found in success or comfort. Joy is found in Christ alone. He is the source, the sustainer, and the strength behind every joyful believer. And if your joy is in Him, nothing in this world can steal it.

Below is a biblical roadmap to joy that lasts. It is simple, powerful, and deeply needed today.

Joy Begins With Receiving the Grace of God

Real joy does not begin with your circumstances. It begins with your Savior. It begins with knowing that God has poured out His grace on your life through Jesus Christ. Grace is not just what saves you. Grace is what sustains you, strengthens you, and secures you every single day.

Most people think joy comes from ease. The apostle Paul shows the opposite. When Paul wrote the book of Philippians, he was not vacationing on a beach. He was chained in a Roman prison. He had been beaten, betrayed, rejected, and lied about. Yet his letter explodes with joy. Why? Because joy does not come from where you are. Joy comes from whose you are. Grace reminds you that God is with you in every moment. Grace tells you that you are already loved, already accepted, and already held by the One who promises to never leave you. That is why Paul could rejoice in prison. He did not rejoice because life was smooth. He rejoiced because he belonged to Jesus.

Joy flows from this truth: You do not have to earn God’s love. You get to walk in the freedom of already being loved.

That truth is joy’s foundation. The more you understand grace, the deeper your joy becomes.

Joy Grows When We Choose Gratitude Over Grumbling

One of the most overlooked truths in Scripture is that joy and gratitude are inseparable. A thankful heart becomes a joyful heart. A complaining heart becomes an empty one. Paul understood this. In Philippians 1:3 he wrote, “I thank my God upon every remembrance of you.” Those were not words of politeness. They were words of overflowing gratitude.

Even in prison, Paul chose to give thanks. He thanked God for people. He thanked God for the church. He thanked God for the work He was doing. Gratitude was not an occasional feeling. It was a daily discipline that nourished his soul.

If you want more joy, start giving more thanks. Thank God for your salvation. Thank Him for your family. Thank Him for His mercy and patience. Thank Him for what He has brought you through. Thank Him for what He is teaching you today. Thank Him for the hard things that are shaping you into the image of Christ. Gratitude shifts your focus from what is wrong to what is true. And what is true is that God is faithful. He is with you. He is working. He is doing far more than you see. When you start noticing His goodness, joy begins to rise. Gratitude opens the door for joy to rush in.

The world trains people to complain. Scripture trains believers to give thanks. Complaining magnifies problems. Gratitude magnifies God. And the more you magnify God, the more joy you will experience.

Joy Endures When We Stand on Truth Instead of Circumstances

The world believes joy is fragile. Scripture teaches joy is resilient. Joy does not collapse because your circumstances collapse. Joy stands firm because it rests on the promises of God. That is why Paul could write in Philippians 1:6, “Being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it.” Joy is built on confidence in God’s character. He started the work in you. He will finish the work in you. He will not abandon His children halfway through their story. He does not walk away when things get difficult. He does not check out when life gets messy. God is faithful. And joy grows wherever that truth is believed.

Second Timothy 1:7 reminds us, “God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” Fear and joy cannot coexist. Fear drains your strength. Joy fuels it. Fear lies about your future. Joy stands on God’s promises. Fear makes you doubt God’s goodness. Joy reminds you that the Father who sent His Son for you will never fail you. The enemy wants to rob Christians of joy because joy is spiritual strength. When you walk in joy, you walk with a confidence that comes from heaven. You walk with clarity, courage, and conviction. You walk in the assurance that God is bigger than your problems, stronger than your enemies, and faithful in every season of your life.

Joy is not passive. Joy is a choice. It is a decision to look at your circumstances through the lens of Scripture instead of looking at Scripture through the lens of circumstances. Joy says, “My situation may change, but my Savior does not. My hope is anchored in Him.” That truth makes joy unshakeable.

Joy Flourishes in Community and Becomes a Witness to the World

Joy is not meant to be hidden. It is meant to be shared. Joy strengthens the church and becomes a powerful witness to the world. When Paul thought about the Philippian church, he wrote, “Always in every prayer of mine making request for you all with joy” (Philippians 1:4). The spiritual health of the church stirred joy in his heart. A healthy church creates joy in its people. When believers worship with sincerity, serve with humility, and love with generosity, joy becomes contagious. Joy energizes the body of Christ. Joy lifts the weary. Joy encourages the discouraged. Joy strengthens pastors, families, and entire congregations.

The world is watching the church. They are watching how we respond to trials. They are watching how we treat one another. They are watching whether our faith is real. A joyful believer stands out in a culture filled with fear and confusion. Joy is a testimony that Christ is alive in you. Joy says to the world, “My peace does not come from this world. My hope comes from God.”

People are desperate for joy because they are drowning in anxiety and emptiness. When they see genuine joy in your life, they will want to know where it comes from. Your joy becomes an invitation to share the gospel. You do not have to manufacture it. You just have to walk in the joy that Christ has already given you.

Joy Overflows When We Walk Closely With Jesus Every Day

At the end of the day, joy is not produced by trying harder. Joy is produced by drawing closer. Joy comes from abiding in Christ, listening to His voice, obeying His Word, and trusting His heart. The more you walk with Him, the more His joy becomes your strength. Joy is the mark of a believer who knows Jesus intimately. That is why Christians throughout history have been able to sing in prison, worship through grief, and stand strong in persecution. Their joy was not based on what was happening around them. It was based on who was living within them.

Jesus said in John 15:11, “These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be full.” His joy is not shallow. His joy is not temporary. His joy is not dependent on the stock market, the news cycle, or the approval of people. His joy remains. If you want lasting joy, draw near to Jesus. Read His Word daily. Seek Him in prayer. Ask Him to renew your mind. Confess sin quickly. Walk in obedience. Surround yourself with believers who build you up instead of pull you down. Lift your eyes above your circumstances and fix them on the Savior who loves you.

Joy is for every believer. Joy is for every season. Joy is for right now. And when your joy is rooted in Christ, it will overflow into every part of your life. It will fill your home, your relationships, your ministry, your workplace, and your conversations. Joy will become a lighthouse that points people to the hope of the gospel.

Let’s Pray

Lord, thank You for the joy that comes from knowing You. Teach me to find my joy in You and not in my circumstances. Help me to choose joy daily, to fight for it when it is hard, and to share it freely with others. Make me someone who rejoices always because You are always faithful. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.

Christmas is a time for joy, worship, and reflection, and Real Life Network continues to offer families a place to experience it all through a biblical worldview. As one of the fastest growing Christian streaming services, RLN provides uplifting and uncensored news, kids content, sermons, and Christ centered storytelling designed to strengthen your faith. The countdown to Christmas continues, and RLN has just added two new programs to help your family keep Jesus at the center of the season.

The first new release is Jolly Bay Christmas with The Wild Brothers, a fun and faith filled adventure perfect for kids, teens, and families. The Wilds have long been beloved for their energetic storytelling and strong commitment to God’s Word. In this Christmas special, an unexpected encounter launches them into a search for the legendary Jolly Bay birds. This lighthearted holiday journey weaves creation truth, family values, and biblical encouragement into a story that keeps children engaged while pointing them toward Christ. In a digital world where so much youth content pulls kids away from faith, Jolly Bay Christmas offers something rare. It is clean, joyful, imaginative, and rooted in Scripture.

Alongside this family adventure is a second new program that brings deep theological clarity to the season. The Christ of Christmas, presented by Evangelism Explosion and hosted by Dr. John Sorensen, walks viewers through the prophecies, people, and promises that form the foundation of the Christmas story. Each episode traces how Scripture pointed forward to the coming Messiah and shows why Jesus is not only the center of Christmas but the center of salvation. These teachings are perfect for individuals, small groups, and families wanting to grow in their understanding of God’s plan of redemption. In a culture that often reduces Christmas to noise and distraction, The Christ of Christmas brings the focus back to the hope of eternal life.

Both new releases beautifully complement RLN’s larger seasonal collection, Hope for the Holidays, which features sermons, worship, Christmas music, kids programs, and devotionals from trusted voices who teach with courage and conviction. Whether you are looking for peaceful Christmas reflections, biblical messages, or family friendly entertainment, Hope for the Holidays provides a Christ honoring place to anchor your heart.

Real Life Network remains committed to offering safe, uplifting programs for believers of all ages. As a privately run digital media platform, RLN is not controlled by Big Tech or Big Government. This independence allows the network to speak truth boldly, proclaim the gospel without compromise, and deliver biblical worldview content with clarity and conviction. In a world dominated by filtered narratives and censored viewpoints, RLN gives viewers a place to grow in their faith and stay grounded in truth.

As you prepare for Christmas, make space for content that fills your home with joy, peace, and Scripture. Let your family laugh with the Wild Brothers, learn from Dr. Sorensen, and worship through every moment of this season.

Explore all the Christmas programs now streaming at RealLifeNetwork.com and keep Jesus at the center of your celebration.

Anger is one of the most common human emotions, and one of the most dangerous when left unchecked. It can erupt quickly, grow silently, or simmer beneath the surface for years. Scripture teaches that anger is not simply a reaction; it is a revelation of what is happening in your heart. And while there is such a thing as righteous anger, most of the anger that affects our lives is not righteous at all. It is fleshly, personal, reactive, and destructive.

Pastor Jack Hibbs often says that the Christian life must be lived from the inside out. Anger proves that. What grows inside eventually shows up outside. Jesus did not lower the standard on anger; He raised it. He showed us that anger left unresolved is a spiritual danger, a seed that can grow into something far worse.

In this devotional message adapted into a long-form teaching, we explore what God says about anger, how it affects the believer, and how to defeat it through the power of the Holy Spirit. Below are five essential truths that every follower of Jesus must understand if they want to overcome anger and walk in peace.

Anger Reveals the Condition of the Heart

Anger never appears without a cause. It is always pointing to something deeper. Jesus taught in Matthew 5 that anger itself places a person in spiritual danger. You do not have to commit violence to be guilty before God. Anger hidden in the heart is visible to Him. Bitterness rehearsed in the mind is heard by Him. Resentment carried secretly is confronted by Him.

Many believers excuse anger because they do not act on it outwardly. They think that because they have not yelled or struck someone, they are fine. But Jesus says the real battlefield is inside. Anger shapes your thoughts, influences your conversations, and eventually molds your behavior. What begins as a quiet irritation can grow into a destructive pattern that harms your relationships and disrupts your fellowship with God.

It is possible to live your entire life without committing a violent act, yet still be shaped by an angry spirit. The truth is simple and convicting. What you harbor will eventually take root. What you rehearse will eventually show in your words. What you justify will eventually guide your decisions.

God does not expose anger to shame you. He exposes it so you can be healed. When anger rises, He is inviting you to look inside and ask, “Why is this happening in my heart?” That question is the beginning of transformation.

What Scripture Teaches About Anger and Its Consequences

Anger is not always sinful. There is a righteous anger that responds to what dishonors God. Jesus displayed this anger when He cleansed the temple. He was not defending Himself. He was defending the Father’s glory. But this type of anger is rare for most of us. More often, our anger is personal. It rises when our pride is bruised, when we feel disrespected, or when something does not go our way.

James 1:19–20 tells us to be slow to speak, slow to anger, and quick to listen because the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God. Human anger never leads to holy results. You cannot yell someone into righteousness. You cannot intimidate someone into godliness. Emotional explosions do not build the kingdom of God. They tear it down.

Scripture also warns us about the danger of unresolved anger. Ephesians 4:26–27 says to not let the sun go down on your anger so that you do not give place to the devil. Anger that lingers becomes a foothold for spiritual attack. It becomes an opening for bitterness, resentment, and division.

Anger can also distort your perception. When you are angry, you stop listening. You misinterpret motives. You replay offenses. You build an entire narrative in your head that may have little connection to truth. Anger twists your view until you can no longer see clearly. That is why angry decisions often lead to regret.

Jesus takes anger seriously because He knows what it grows into. Anger is the seed of hatred. It is the seed of revenge. It is the seed of every relational fracture that divides families, friendships, and churches. If you want to defeat sin at the root, you must confront anger when it first appears.

The Spiritual Roots Behind Anger and the Battle for Your Mind

When God confronted Cain in Genesis 4, He asked a simple but profound question: “Why are you angry?” God was not asking for information. He was asking Cain to examine his heart. Underneath anger there is always something deeper. It may be pride, insecurity, jealousy, disappointment, fear, or a wound that has never healed.

Anger is often a mask. It hides weakness. It hides pain. It hides hurt. It hides the parts of us we do not want others to see. But God sees every hidden place. And He wants to heal what is broken. The enemy, however, wants to keep that wound open so he can manipulate it.

Your anger is not simply an emotional issue. It is a spiritual issue. It is not just about your reaction to a situation. It is about what has been left unaddressed in your heart. Anger grows strongest in those who refuse to examine themselves.

Another dangerous form of anger is the one disguised as strength. Some people use anger to control others. They raise their voice, intimidate, or dominate. They think the loudest person is the strongest person. Scripture says otherwise. Proverbs 16:32 declares that the one who rules his spirit is stronger than the one who takes a city. In God’s eyes, self-control is greater than force. Humility is greater than intimidation. Gentleness is greater than aggression.

Anger is also a fire. Proverbs 29:11 says that a fool vents all his feelings, but the wise hold them back. Wisdom pauses. Wisdom prays. Wisdom refuses to let emotions dictate direction. If you follow anger, you will walk into destruction. If you follow the Holy Spirit, you will walk into peace.

Anger left unattended is like an ember that waits for oxygen. Any small offense can ignite it into flames. The longer anger stays in your heart, the easier it is for the enemy to pour fuel on it. God calls you to deal with it quickly, because the longer it remains the deeper its roots grow.

How to Break Free from Anger Through the Power of the Holy Spirit

You cannot defeat anger through willpower. You cannot conquer anger by telling yourself to calm down. Anger must be surrendered. It must be brought into the light. It must be laid at the feet of Jesus. Only the Holy Spirit can change the heart behind the anger.

The first step is confession. Admit when anger has taken hold. Admit when it has shaped your reactions. Admit when it has hurt others. God already knows. Confession is for your freedom.

The second step is examination. Ask the Lord to show you the root. Is it pride? Is it jealousy? Is it insecurity? Is it fear? Is it an old wound? God asks honest questions because He desires honest answers. The Holy Spirit reveals truth so that healing can begin.

The third step is reconciliation. Jesus instructs us to make things right quickly. If you have spoken harshly, apologize. If you have held onto bitterness, forgive. If you have avoided someone because of anger, humble yourself and restore the relationship. You cannot walk in peace with God while refusing peace with others.

The fourth step is surrender. You must surrender your right to be angry. You must surrender your desire for revenge. You must surrender the internal script that keeps replaying what happened. Anger thrives in those who refuse surrender. Peace thrives in those who yield to the Spirit.

The final step is discipline. Learn to pause before you speak. Learn to pray before you react. Learn to listen before you assume. The more you walk in the Spirit, the less control anger has over you.

Walking in the Peace of Christ Instead of the Pattern of Anger

God calls His people to peace. Jesus said, “Blessed are the peacemakers.” Peacemakers are not passive. They are powerful. They confront situations with truth and grace. They refuse to respond in the flesh. They refuse to let anger dictate their steps.

When you walk in the peace of Christ, you stop reacting and start responding. You stop rehearsing offenses and start releasing them. You stop defending your pride and start displaying humility. Anger loses its grip on a heart that is surrendered to the Holy Spirit.

Your witness is strengthened when your anger is weakened. People notice when a Christian responds differently. When you choose peace instead of rage, humility instead of pride, forgiveness instead of bitterness, the world sees Jesus in you.

God has called you to walk in strength, and strength is not loud. Strength is obedient. Strength is self-controlled. Strength is surrendered. Strength is peaceful. The supernatural strength of the Spirit is far greater than the natural strength of anger.

Do not let anger win. Lay it down. Give it to God. Let Him heal the places where pain has lived for too long. Let Him guard your heart. Let Him renew your mind. Let Him shape your responses. Peace is possible because His Spirit lives within you.

Let’s Pray

Father, help me to be slow to anger and quick to listen. I do not want my emotions to lead me. I want to be led by Your Spirit. Forgive me for the times I have spoken harshly, acted impulsively, or let bitterness take root in my heart. Teach me to respond with grace, to pause before reacting, and to walk in humility. Fill me with Your peace so that even when I am provoked, I choose patience over pride. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.

In a culture filled with appearances and performance driven faith, Scripture reminds us that God is not impressed by what looks polished on the outside. True Christianity is revealed under examination. In this devotional, Pastor Jack Hibbs calls believers to sincere faith that can withstand the heat of God’s refining light.

A Faith That Can Be Examined

We are all at our best when we’re in the company of other Christians. But it’s who we are at home that defines the person we truly are. The question is, are you and I sincere?

Our English word “sincere” is a translation of the Greek word eilikrinēs, which means pure, unsullied, without wax, and able to bear full examination in the sun. That type of examination was essential because it wasn’t uncommon for first-century craftsmen to use wax as putty to hide cracks in their slightly damaged pottery.

When the Heat Reveals the Truth

Say you were a worshipper of the goddess Diana, and you purchased an idol to take to her temple. But as you held the statue in the warm sun, her arm fell off. What happened? When the heat was turned up, your idol was revealed for what it was—with wax and insincere. Likewise, when God turns up the heat in our lives through fiery trials, His purpose is to expose falsehood within us. We may deceive others, and even ourselves, but we cannot hide the truth from God. Our relationship with Him must be sincere. We cannot “putty” ourselves up and put on a show of Christianity. We must, as Paul prayed, “approve the things that are excellent.”

It’s time to get real—time to allow the full splendor of the light of God’s Word to examine us. That we might have a single eye to the very best things with a pure and sincere heart until the day of Christ.

Watch and Grow on Real Life Network

For more from Pastor Jack Hibbs and trusted biblical teaching that strengthens your faith, watch on Real Life Network. Stream free, faith filled content anytime at RealLifeNetwork.com or download the Real Life Network app today.

The Christmas season is here, and Real Life Network is once again offering believers a place to slow down, breathe, and rediscover the heart of Christmas. In a world filled with noisy online news, politics, and constant cultural pressure, RLN remains a trusted Christian streaming service that points viewers to truth, hope, and a biblical worldview. Hope for the Holidays, now streaming for free, is a Christ centered collection of sermons, music, and family programs created to lift your spirit and encourage your walk with Jesus.

In the busyness of December, it is easy to lose sight of the peace that Christ came to bring. Hope for the Holidays invites you to step away from the hustle and spend time reflecting on what really matters. Every message and every musical moment is designed to shine a light on the miracle of Jesus and remind families everywhere that Christmas is not about stress or schedules. It is about the Savior who came to redeem the world.

The series features biblical Christmas messages from trusted voices who teach the Word with clarity and conviction. These sermons point viewers back to the foundations of faith and remind us why the birth of Christ changed everything. Whether you are watching alone, with your family, or with your church group, these teachings help anchor your heart in the truth of Scripture during a season that often becomes overrun with distraction.

One of the standout pieces of Hope for the Holidays is Christmas Classics by the Fire, a peaceful Yule Log experience featuring music from David Jeremiah. With soft Christmas melodies and warm, comforting visuals, it creates the perfect atmosphere for prayer, devotion, or simply slowing down with loved ones. It is a refreshing alternative to the typical noise that fills the season and a reminder that worship can be simple and beautiful.

Families will also find seasonal shorts and kids programs that bring encouragement to all ages. These episodes help children understand the meaning of Christmas, celebrate the story of Christ’s birth, and grow in their understanding of God’s love. For parents searching for safe content in a world of confusing messages, RLN continues to provide wholesome, biblically faithful programming that strengthens the home and supports Christian values.

The heart behind Hope for the Holidays is simple. RLN wants to help believers experience joy, truth, and the presence of Jesus during one of the most meaningful times of the year. It is joyful, peaceful, centered on Christ, and all available in one place.

You can also explore more Christmas content on Real Life Network, including the popular 25 Days of Christmas series with Pastor Jack Hibbs, Daniel and Paige Cohen, and other RLN voices who bring biblical insight into today’s world.

As you enjoy the season, help spread the word about Real Life Network. Share this free, biblical worldview platform with friends, family, and your church community. At a time when so much of the media landscape is filled with confusion and uncensored news that pulls hearts away from truth, RLN exists to point people back to Jesus.

Watch Hope for the Holidays today at RealLifeNetwork.com and let your heart be filled with the joy and hope of Christ this Christmas.

Discouragement shows up quietly, often unexpectedly. It arrives after exhausting seasons, spiritual battles, unanswered prayers, or setbacks we never saw coming. Scripture shows us that even the strongest men and women of God faced discouragement. Elijah reached a point so low he asked the Lord to take his life. Jeremiah wrestled with loneliness and rejection. Paul confessed that he despaired even of life. David poured out some of the rawest words ever recorded in Scripture as he cried, “Why are you cast down, O my soul?”

Discouragement does not mean you have failed God. It means you are human. The real danger is not feeling discouraged. The danger is letting discouragement have the final word. God never rebukes His children for feeling overwhelmed. Instead, He meets us right in the middle of it and restores our strength.

This long-form devotional, inspired by Pastor Jack Hibbs’ teaching, will help you understand discouragement not as a sign of spiritual defeat, but as an invitation to anchor your heart in the promises of God and walk forward in faith.

Discouragement Comes for Every Believer, but God Meets Us in It

Some believers feel ashamed when discouragement hits. They assume that if they were stronger, they would not feel this way. But Scripture tells a different story. Elijah had just witnessed one of the greatest miracles in Israel’s history when discouragement swept in like a storm. His boldness suddenly collapsed into exhaustion, and he fled to the wilderness.

Jeremiah experienced deep pain because he was ridiculed and rejected for speaking God’s truth. Paul endured spiritual battles so intense that he admitted he despaired even of life. David, a man after God’s own heart, confronted discouragement repeatedly and spoke to his own soul, urging it to hope in God.

These examples show us that discouragement is not a spiritual flaw. It is a human reality. Even the most faithful servants of God can become weary under pressure, confused about God’s timing, or drained from long seasons of spiritual warfare.

But here is the good news. God does not scold you for feeling discouraged. He does not tell you to hide it or pretend everything is fine. Instead, He invites you to bring it to Him. Discouragement becomes dangerous only when it drives you away from God instead of toward Him.

God meets you in your discouragement. He speaks in the quiet moments when your strength is gone. He restores you with truth. He reminds you that He has not changed, even when your emotions have.

When you feel discouraged, the most spiritual thing you can do is be honest with God. Lay your burdens at His feet. Let Him restore what weariness has taken. You do not overcome discouragement through denial. You overcome discouragement through surrender.

The Enemy Uses Discouragement to Distract, Divide, and Weaken Your Faith

Discouragement is not neutral. It is one of the enemy’s most reliable weapons because it attacks your clarity, confidence, and courage all at once. When discouragement settles in, you begin to doubt what you know is true. Your prayers lose their boldness. Your perspective narrows. Instead of standing firm, you begin to shrink back.

Satan loves discouragement because it makes strong believers feel defeated and confident believers feel uncertain. If the enemy can discourage you, he does not have to defeat you. Discouragement will drain you until you stop pursuing God’s calling.

Discouragement often whispers lies such as:

“You are alone.”
“God has forgotten you.”
“Your prayers are not working.”
“Your obedience does not matter.”
“Nothing is changing.”
“Your best days are behind you.”

None of these statements come from God. They come from a real enemy who wants to pull you out of the battle and into isolation.

Discouragement also erodes your spiritual defenses. It shifts your focus to your emotions rather than God’s truth. But discouragement is not a lack of faith. It is a lack of perspective. When you stop seeing God clearly, discouragement fills the emptiness.

This is why the enemy amplifies discouragement the moment you obey the Lord. Many believers assume that obedience should make life easier, but the reality is the opposite. Some of your deepest discouragements will come right after you take a step of faith. The enemy presses harder because you are moving in the right direction.

Do not let discouragement convince you that you are going the wrong way. It may be the strongest confirmation that you are exactly where God wants you.

God’s Truth Must Speak Louder Than Your Feelings and Your Fears

Discouragement is loud. It echoes in your mind. It exaggerates your failures. It highlights your fears. It predicts outcomes that have not happened. It overwhelms your thoughts until you begin believing things that are not true.

This is why you must allow God’s Word to speak louder than your emotions.

When David was discouraged, he did not wait for his emotions to change. He spoke to his own soul. He declared the truth of Scripture. He reminded himself that God was still on the throne, still faithful, still good.

Sometimes the truth you need most is not new. It is simply forgotten. Discouragement causes spiritual amnesia. You forget who God is, what He has done, and what He has promised. That is why the most powerful thing you can do in moments of discouragement is to open Scripture and speak the promises of God aloud.

Psalm 18:2 says, “The Lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer.”
Psalm 34:17 says, “The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears.”
Isaiah 40:29 says, “He gives power to the weak, and to those who have no might He increases strength.”
Philippians 1:6 declares that God finishes what He starts.

Your emotions may tell you that everything is collapsing. But God’s Word tells you that He holds everything together.

Faith does not come from positive thinking. Faith comes by hearing the Word of God. When discouragement rises, open your Bible. Read it out loud. Let the truth of Scripture correct the lies that discouragement whispers.

God Is Working Even When You Cannot Hear Him or See Anything Changing

One of the most difficult forms of discouragement comes when God feels silent. You pray but hear nothing. You obey but see no results. You wait but nothing seems to move. In those moments, discouragement grows quickly because silence feels like abandonment.

But silence is not absence. God often does His greatest work behind the scenes where you cannot see it yet.

Joseph spent years in prison, forgotten by people but never forgotten by God. Job sat in silence for long stretches while heaven battled on his behalf. Jesus intentionally waited four days before going to Lazarus’ tomb, not because He did not care, but because He had a greater plan unfolding.

When you cannot see what God is doing, you can trust that He is still doing something. Silence is not the end of your story. God is not finished writing His plans for you. Philippians 1:6 declares that the One who began a good work in you will complete it. Not might. Will.

Your discouragement may tell you that nothing is happening, but heaven is rarely as still as it seems. God moves quietly before He moves publicly. He prepares the breakthrough long before you see the outcome. Your job is not to understand the timing. Your job is to trust the One who holds every moment in His hands.

Discouragement grows when you measure God’s faithfulness by your timeline. But hope grows when you measure your timeline by God’s faithfulness.

You Can Rise Again Because Your Strength Comes From the Lord

Discouragement convinces you to stop, quit, or withdraw. It pushes you toward making decisions you will regret later. That is why Scripture consistently warns believers not to move or react when discouragement is speaking. Decisions made in discouragement are almost always the wrong decisions.

Elijah wanted to quit. Jonah wanted to run. Peter wanted to return to fishing. None of those decisions were Spirit led. They were emotional reactions to discouragement.

God does not ask you to understand everything. He simply asks you to stay close to Him. When you wait on the Lord, He renews your strength. When you lean into Him, He restores your confidence. When you surrender your discouragement, He lifts the burden that was never meant to be carried alone.

David found strength not in his circumstances, but in the Lord his God. Paul pressed on because the Spirit strengthened him. Joshua overcame fear because God promised to be with him. The same God who strengthened them strengthens you.

Discouragement cannot defeat a surrendered heart. You do not have to be strong enough on your own. You simply need to surrender to the strength of the Lord. When your heart is surrendered, discouragement loses its power. It may slow you, but it cannot stop you.

Keep your eyes on the finish line. God sees the entire race. He sees every valley and every mountain, every tear and every prayer. He promises that your labor is never wasted and your faithfulness is never forgotten. Discouragement wants you to stop, but God calls you to endure.

You were never meant to fight alone. God is near to the brokenhearted. He saves those who are crushed in spirit. He places you in a family of believers so you do not have to carry burdens by yourself. Discouragement isolates, but God unites. Reach out. Ask for prayer. Share your struggles. Let others remind you of truth when you cannot see it clearly.

God will bring you through this season. He will strengthen you again. He will restore your joy. And He will prove faithful in every detail of your life.

Let’s Pray

Father, You see the weight on my heart today. You know the fears, the frustrations, and the moments when I feel like giving up. Remind me that I am not alone. Teach me to trust Your timing and Your promises. Strengthen me where I am weak. Restore my hope. Help me keep my eyes on Jesus, the One who began this work in me and who will carry it to completion. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.

Finding a movie that everyone in the family can enjoy is not always easy. Parents want something uplifting and clean, older kids want a story that feels engaging, and younger children need something visually warm and easy to follow. Thankfully, there are high-quality Christian films available today that accomplish all three.

Real Life Network offers several free streaming options that combine strong storytelling with biblical themes, historical inspiration, and messages that encourage meaningful discussion. Whether you want an animated adventure, a true story of courage, or a film that sparks deeper conversations about faith, these five titles provide excellent choices for your next movie night.

Below are five family-friendly films you can stream for free, each selected for its strong values, engaging story, and ability to spark conversations around Scripture and real-world faith.

1. Sabina

Why It’s Worth Watching
Set during World War II, Sabina tells the remarkable true story of Sabina and Richard Wurmbrand, co-founders of The Voice of the Martyrs. At its heart, this film explores what it means to love and forgive in circumstances that most people could hardly imagine. While the setting includes the tension of the era, the film stays rooted in themes of redemption and forgiveness rather than graphic content.

Families with older children and teens will appreciate the emotional depth of the story, especially its portrayal of choosing compassion over hatred. The film creates a valuable opportunity to discuss how biblical love is more than a feeling; it is a choice that reflects the heart of Christ.

A Scripture Connection
Romans 12:21 (NKJV) says, “Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” Sabina’s story embodies this command through real-world actions that challenge viewers to consider how they might respond in moments of hurt or injustice.

You can stream Sabina anytime on Real Life Network.

2. The Pilgrim’s Progress (Animated)

Why It’s Worth Watching
Based on John Bunyan’s enduring classic, this animated adaptation introduces children and adults alike to one of the most influential Christian stories ever written. The movie follows Christian, an ordinary man who leaves the City of Destruction on a quest toward the Celestial City. Along the way, he faces challenges that mirror the spiritual struggles believers encounter today.

The animation style makes the story accessible for children, while the symbolism offers deeper meaning for teens and adults. The film’s moments of tension never cross into inappropriate territory, keeping it family-friendly while still meaningful.

A Scripture Connection
Psalm 119:105 (NKJV) teaches, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” Christian’s journey visually demonstrates the way God’s truth guides believers through confusion, temptation, and fear.

Families can find The Pilgrim’s Progress available for free streaming on Real Life Network.

3. Seven Days in Utopia

Why It’s Worth Watching
For families who enjoy sports films with deeper life lessons, Seven Days in Utopia is an excellent choice. The story centers on a young golfer whose career is unraveling. After an unexpected detour, he ends up in a small Texas town where he meets a mentor who teaches him that the condition of the heart matters far more than the perfection of a swing.

This film stands out for its gentle pace, clean content, and emphasis on character over competition. The movie’s themes—purpose, humility, and discipline—make it ideal for older children and teens navigating questions about identity and success.

A Scripture Connection
Proverbs 4:23 (NKJV) says, “Keep your heart with all diligence, for out of it spring the issues of life.” The film illustrates this truth through its message that the inner life drives outward choices, goals, and motivations.

You can stream Seven Days in Utopia for free on Real Life Network and enjoy a movie night that encourages reflection long after the credits roll.

4. Corrie ten Boom: A Faith Undefeated

Why It’s Worth Watching
This documentary-style film examines the powerful life of Corrie ten Boom, a Dutch Christian who, along with her family, risked everything to protect Jewish refugees during World War II. Her story continues to inspire believers around the world with its message of courage, forgiveness, and trust in God in the darkest circumstances.

Although the subject matter deals with historical oppression, the film handles the material with care, avoiding unnecessary intensity while still portraying the weight of the choices Corrie and her family made. For middle schoolers, teens, and adults, this is a meaningful look at faith in action.

A Scripture Connection
Psalm 46:1 (NKJV) reminds us, “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” Corrie’s story reflects this assurance, showing how reliance on the Lord can sustain believers through unimaginable trials.

Families can explore Corrie ten Boom: A Faith Undefeated on Real Life Network to spark important conversations about faithfulness, courage, and hope.

5. The Jesus Film

Why It’s Worth Watching
Few films have had a greater global impact than The Jesus Film. It presents the life of Jesus directly from the Gospel of Luke, making it both a cinematic experience and an accessible introduction to Scripture. Because the film remains close to the biblical text, it provides a helpful visual foundation for understanding the ministry, miracles, and teachings of Christ.

For families with younger children, this movie offers a clear and gentle way to introduce the story of Jesus. For older kids and adults, it strengthens understanding of the gospel message and prompts meaningful discussion.

A Scripture Connection
John 20:31 (NKJV) explains the purpose of the Gospel accounts: “These are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing you may have life in His name.” The Jesus Film offers a faithful way to encounter that message visually.

You can stream The Jesus Film for free on Real Life Network anytime.

A meaningful family movie night doesn’t have to involve searching endlessly through crowded streaming menus. The titles available on Real Life Network offer clean storytelling, uplifting themes, and opportunities to talk about faith in ways that resonate with all ages. Whether your family enjoys animated adventures, historical accounts, sports stories, or biblical narratives, these five films provide a great place to start.

Each one invites conversation about Scripture, character, courage, and the hope found in Christ. And because they are available to stream for free, they offer easy access to uplifting entertainment that brings the family together.

Explore more films and biblical content anytime on Real Life Network.

Heaven’s influence on our lives is never greater than when our sights are fixed upon it. The man or woman whose eyes are turned upward will be marked by a life lived differently. We know this because of the accounts of those who determined to fix their gaze far above the earth. Moses is a perfect example.

In Pharaoh’s house, Moses had every benefit laid at his feet. Yet, he was not captivated by the security of the Egyptian court because “he was looking ahead to his reward” (Hebrews 11:26). For Moses, looking upward equated to living beyond the fleeting rewards of playing it safe, resulting in the deliverance of millions of his people from bondage.

Missionary to China, Hudson Taylor was another who lived with heaven in constant view. In writing about winning souls to Christ, Taylor said, “China is not to be won for Christ by quiet, ease-loving men and women.” Through his courageous, some might say outrageous, trust in God, he inspired thousands to forsake the comforts of the West to bring the gospel to China's vast, unknown interior.

The Magi of the Christmas account trained their eye on the heavenly star so they might find the Christ Child and worship Him. Christian, what are your sights set on? What is the driving force in your worship of your King? I pray that you turn your eyes upward to that which will one day be yours—heaven.

The Christmas season is here, and Real Life Network is inviting believers everywhere to slow down, refocus, and return their attention to the miracle of Jesus. As the world grows louder with online news, politics, and endless cultural noise, RLN offers something different. Through our Christian streaming service, we are releasing 25 Days of Christmas, a daily journey filled with Scripture based encouragement, Christ centered reflections, and uplifting content for the whole family. If you are looking for conservative news, biblical worldview teaching, and clean, faith filled programming during the holidays, RLN is the place to be.

Each day leading up to Christmas, viewers can experience a new message designed to prepare the heart, strengthen the mind, and stir worship. Pastor Jack Hibbs opens the series with a timely reminder that Christmas is more than tradition. It is the celebration of God stepping into human history. In a culture that often replaces truth with distraction, this season calls us back to the foundation of our faith, the birth of Jesus Christ.

A special highlight of the series comes from Daniel and Paige Cohen, reporting from Israel. Their Christmas reflections offer a meaningful perspective on the land where the story of redemption began. As global tension and uncertainty continue to shape the headlines, their messages are a reminder that the hope of the Gospel remains unshaken. The places we read about in Scripture are real, the promises of God are real, and the Messiah who came is still the Savior who reigns.

Every day through Christmas, RLN will release fresh content that helps families stay grounded in biblical truth. Whether you are looking for devotionals, heartfelt conversations, holiday teachings, or encouraging perspectives on faith and culture, there is something here to build your spirit. Christmas is not only a day on the calendar. It is a season worth celebrating with intention.

Families can also explore RLN’s Christmas Channel, featuring programs such as Hope for the Holidays, 25 Days of Christmas, and The Christ of Christmas. These series point viewers away from the pressure and commercialism of the world and toward the peace that comes from Christ alone.

One of the greatest joys of Real Life Network is offering content that is truly safe for the whole family. Parents no longer need to filter through questionable shows or wonder what messages their children are being taught. RLN provides clean, uplifting, biblically faithful programs that help strengthen homes and cultivate a Christian worldview.

This Christmas, we invite you to return your focus to the Savior, to rediscover the miracle of His birth, and to celebrate His unchanging love. Whether you watch Pastor Jack Hibbs, join Daniel and Paige Cohen in Israel, or enjoy the many holiday programs available, RLN is here to walk with you through this season of hope.

Start watching 25 Days of Christmas today at RealLifeNetwork.com and experience a Christmas focused on the One who came to save.

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‍Walking faithfully with God is not complicated, but it is costly. It is simple, but not easy. Faithfulness is not built in the spotlight. It is formed when the room is quiet, when the phone is off, when no one is applauding, and when there is no reward except the pleasure of God Himself. That is the kind of faith that pleases the Lord. That is the faith Scripture celebrates. And it is the kind of faith every believer is called to live out in this hour.

We live in a world that rewards image instead of integrity, noise instead of truth, feelings instead of faith. Yet God has never changed His standard. He is still looking for men and women who will walk with Him in the unseen places. He is still looking for faithfulness.

Below are five pillars of biblical faithfulness that every Christian can build their life upon. They are not complicated. They are not glamorous. But they are powerful, and they are the very things God notices and rewards.

Faithfulness Begins With Trusting Who God Is

Real biblical faith starts with one simple but life changing truth. God is who He says He is. Hebrews 11:6 declares that without faith it is impossible to please Him. Scripture does not say it is difficult. It says it is impossible. The person who comes to God must believe two things. First, that God exists. And second, that He rewards those who diligently seek Him.

Those two beliefs shape every moment of our walk with God. Faith says He is here even when He feels silent. Faith says He sees me even when no one else does. Faith says He is faithful even when I do not understand what He is doing. Faith is never blind. Faith sees more clearly than sight does.

Many Christians struggle with faithfulness because they have never settled in their hearts who God is. He is not a distant deity. He is not an idea. He is not a theory. He is the faithful Creator who cannot lie. Faithfulness grows when our confidence in His character grows. Noah endured mockery because he trusted God. Abraham left everything familiar because he trusted God. Moses confronted Pharaoh because he trusted God. Every example in Hebrews 11 begins with the same root. God spoke, and they believed Him.

Faithfulness today still begins with believing God. Not believing our emotions. Not believing culture. Not believing the headlines. Believing God. He has not failed you. He has not forgotten you. He has not changed His mind about you. Faithfulness is choosing to trust Him again today. This kind of trust is not emotional hype. It is not a moment of inspiration. It is daily obedience. It is saying, “Lord, I believe You. Even when I am tired. Even when I am discouraged. Even when I am walking by faith and not by sight.” That is the soil where faithfulness begins.

Faithfulness Grows Through a Spirit Filled Life

Faithfulness is not natural. It is supernatural. Galatians 5:22 tells us plainly that faithfulness is fruit. You cannot manufacture it. You cannot fake it. You cannot force it. Fruit grows when the branch abides in the vine. It grows when the believer stays filled with the Spirit. The flesh will never choose faithfulness. The flesh looks for the easy way out. The flesh looks for shortcuts. The flesh wants applause. That is why many people start strong but quit early. Faithfulness is not born from the flesh. It is born from walking with the Spirit.

A Spirit filled believer will be faithful even when he is weary. A Spirit filled believer will forgive when the world says to walk away. A Spirit filled believer will open the Bible even when everything inside him wants to scroll past another hour on a screen. A Spirit filled believer will pray even when the prayer feels weak.

If you feel inconsistent in your walk with God, the solution is not to try harder. The solution is to surrender deeper. Ask the Lord to fill you again. Ask Him to soften your heart. Ask Him to strengthen your obedience. God never commands something He will not empower. If He calls us to be faithful, He will give us the strength to walk it out. Enoch walked with God in a culture that despised righteousness. Yet Scripture says he pleased God. How? He walked with Him. That is the secret. Daily communion. Daily surrender. Daily dependence. Faithfulness is not a sudden burst of passion. It is a steady, Spirit empowered life.

When the Holy Spirit fills a believer, faithfulness becomes possible. It becomes natural. It becomes joyful. And it becomes evidence that we truly belong to Him.

Faithfulness Worships God With a Whole Heart

Worship is not a song. It is a surrender. It is Abel bringing the best of what he had, not because it was convenient but because it was costly. Hebrews 11:4 reminds us that Abel’s offering was excellent because his heart was excellent. Cain gave God something. Abel gave God himself.

Faithfulness in worship means we give God more than words. We give Him our priorities. We give Him our time. We give Him our affections. We give Him our obedience. It is possible to sing loud in church and still hold back our heart from God. He sees the difference. Cain brought an offering. Abel brought faith. Cain gave out of ease. Abel gave out of dependence. Cain offered something that did not cost him much. Abel offered something that showed trust. Faithful worship is always costly. It costs convenience. It costs selfishness. It costs pride. It costs comfort. But it pleases God.

You cannot be faithful to the Lord and casual about worship. Faithfulness bows before God when the world stands proud. Faithfulness kneels in surrender when culture says to resist truth. Faithfulness says, “Lord, You have my whole life. Not just the parts that look impressive. Not just the parts that are comfortable. All of it.”

In a world that worships self, true worship stands out. When you lift your hands, heaven sees. When you give sacrificially, heaven sees. When you choose purity, heaven sees. When you serve quietly without recognition, heaven sees. God is not looking at the size of the offering. He is looking at the size of the surrender. Worship that costs nothing means nothing. But worship that costs something means everything to God. That is faithfulness.

Faithfulness Stands Firm in a Culture of Fear and Compromise

We are living in a time when fear is marketed like a product. The world is loud, chaotic, unstable, and always shouting. Fear paralyzes people. Fear silences truth. Fear makes believers forget who God is. But Scripture declares that God has not given us a spirit of fear. He has given us power, love, and a sound mind. Faithfulness and fear cannot coexist. One will drive out the other. When fear runs your decisions, faithfulness fades. When God’s truth fills your heart, fear loses its grip.

Noah obeyed God while an entire generation laughed at him. He kept building. He kept trusting. He kept moving forward even when people thought he was delusional. That is what faithfulness looks like in a culture hostile to truth. It is standing firm on God’s Word even when the world mocks it.

Faithfulness today means holding fast to Scripture when culture says it is outdated. It means believing God’s design when the world tells you to follow your truth. It means standing for righteousness when compromise is easier. It means refusing to water down the gospel to make it more palatable. The world rewards compromise. God rewards conviction. Culture celebrates convenience. God celebrates obedience. Faithfulness is choosing the narrow road over the popular one. It is choosing truth over comfort. It is choosing Christ over the approval of man.

You may lose friends. You may lose opportunities. You may face ridicule. But you will gain something far greater. You will gain the peace of walking in the will of God. You will gain the joy of a clean conscience. You will gain the strength that comes from knowing you stood firm when many gave up. Do not fear the cost of faithfulness. Fear the cost of compromise. The temporary applause of men is nothing compared to the eternal approval of God.

Faithfulness Endures With Eternity in View

Hebrews 6:10 gives a promise every believer should memorize. God is not unjust to forget your work and labor of love which you have shown toward His name. Nothing done in faithfulness is wasted. Nothing.

You may feel unseen. God sees you. You may feel overlooked. God remembers you. You may feel like your prayers, your service, your obedience, your faithfulness, and your sacrifices have produced little fruit. God says otherwise. He keeps perfect record. And He rewards those who remain steady.

Faithfulness is not loud. It is lasting. It is showing up when you feel tired. It is reading the Word when you feel distracted. It is praying when your emotions say to quit. It is loving people who are hard to love. It is raising your children in truth when culture pulls at them daily. It is honoring your marriage vows when the world normalizes quitting. It is choosing purity when temptation rises. It is staying the course when everyone else wanders.

Faithfulness is not about perfection. It is about direction. The question is not whether you stumble. The question is whether you get back up. The question is whether you choose obedience again tomorrow. The question is whether you set your eyes on eternity instead of the distractions of the world. One day you will stand before the Lord. Not before social media. Not before culture. Not before the critics. Before the Lord. And what you did in faithfulness will matter forever. Jesus did not say, “Well done, successful servant.” He said, “Well done, good and faithful servant.”

Your faithfulness today is shaping your eternity. Keep sowing. Keep trusting. Keep obeying. Your reward is coming.

Encourage Others

If this encouraged you, share it with someone who needs strength for the journey. And for more teaching that stands firmly on biblical truth, be sure to watch Pastor Jack Hibbs on the Real Life Network. Thousands of hours of discipleship content, films, sermons, and programs are available for free at RealLifeNetwork.com.

Let your faithfulness shine where no one sees. God sees. And He is pleased.