Navigating Life From The Cross

Pastor Scott Thom

Why you absolutely need a coach - So life doesn't punch you in the face You are probably not like most Christians. You desire to grow in your new life in Christ and a deeper relationship with Jesus. In this new life, you must conquer your giants. You want to know how to overcome fear, anxiety, and negativity. You yearn to go farther in your life, work, and family. There is purpose in Christ and you crave to be part of God’s greater plan and to have meaning in life. Problems, sins, and trials arise in life but you require answers to life’s problems. There are others you love and want to share your faith with. This is the place for you. Navigating Life From The Cross is a serious discipleship podcast to mentor you in these biblical solutions. I’m Pastor Scott Thom. I have discipled thousands as a teacher in several Bible colleges and hundreds in leadership training programs. This has been a thirty-year passion for me. I have written the book on disciple-making (Discipleship On Fire). I know how to disciple people in Christ. We must put on Christ. It is a decision followed by an action. Once someone shows you the way then your life will transform. Join me on this journey to the fullness we have in Christ. Smile ~ and make life happen! The Discipleship Book: https://rb.gy/jolk8d CCFcollege: https://www.ccfcollege.com/ CrossFellowship.org read less
Religion & SpiritualityReligion & Spirituality
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Episodes

How God Made Me Happy PT.2
01-12-2024
How God Made Me Happy PT.2
In "How God Made Me Happy PT.2," Pastor Scott Thom explores how God’s love and guidance bring true happiness and joy. He highlights key principles for cultivating a fulfilled life, including embracing Jesus's qualities, trusting God over money, pursuing godly goals, and releasing burdens to Jesus. Pastor Thom emphasizes that happiness comes from within and above, rooted in a deep relationship with God rather than material wealth or external circumstances.   Discussion Questions:   How can embracing the qualities of Jesus (love, joy, peace) change your perspective on happiness? Why is it important to trust God for provision rather than relying on money for happiness? How do you find purpose and direction in your life through godly goals? What burdens or fears must you release to Jesus to experience more joy? How can serving others and focusing on God’s kingdom bring more fulfillment and happiness?   Prayer Points:   Pray for a deeper relationship with God that brings lasting joy and peace. Ask God to help you embrace His qualities and reflect the image of Christ in your daily life. Pray for freedom from the worry of material possessions and trust in God's provision. Ask God for direction in pursuing godly goals that align with His will for your life. Pray for the strength to release all burdens, fears, and concerns about others’ opinions to Jesus.   Action Steps:   Reflect on areas where you may be relying on material things for happiness. Challenge yourself to trust God more fully. Identify a godly goal you can pursue this week—small or large—that aligns with God's purpose for your life. Spend time in prayer and release any emotional or mental burdens to Jesus, trusting Him to provide peace and joy. Look for opportunities to serve others and invest in God’s kingdom within your community and beyond. Practice the qualities of Jesus (love, joy, peace) in your relationships, making it a habit to reflect His nature.   Keywords for You   Happiness in God Finding Joy in Jesus Trusting God for Happiness Embracing Jesus' Qualities Pursuing Godly Goals Contentment in Christ Overcoming Worry with Faith Release Burdens to Jesus Christian Life Purpose Pastor Scott Thom's Happiness
How God Made Me Happy PT.1
24-11-2024
How God Made Me Happy PT.1
GOD GAVE ME JOY CrossFellowship.org In "How God Made Me Happy PT.1", Pastor Scott Thom explores how to find true happiness and joy despite life's trials. He emphasizes that happiness comes from walking in alignment with God's design, trusting His plan, and showing mercy and love to others. By accepting both good and bad circumstances, we can grow in faith, embrace God's love, and experience lasting joy. Pastor Scott also encourages viewers to trust God through hardships and remember that nothing can separate them from His love. Discussion Questions: 1.    What are some ways we try to find happiness outside of God's design, and how do they often lead to frustration? 2.    How does loving God with all our hearts, souls, and minds (Matthew 22:36-38) influence our joy and peace? 3.    How can we practice mercy in our relationships to foster more profound joy in ourselves and others? 4.    What does accepting the bad with the good mean, and how can we better navigate difficult circumstances with God’s guidance? 5.    How can you encourage others to embrace joy, even in hardship? Prayer Points: 1.    For Joy and Happiness: Pray for God’s help in aligning your life with His design so that joy and peace can flow through all circumstances. 2.    For Trust in God’s Plan: Ask God to help you trust His plan during difficult times, knowing He works everything for good. 3.    For Mercy and Love: Pray for a heart that shows mercy to others, leading to deeper relationships and lasting joy. Action Steps: 1.    Align with God’s Design: Reflect on areas where you might be acting outside God's plan, and take steps to realign with His purpose. 2.    Practice Mercy: In your interactions this week, consciously show mercy and kindness to others, even in challenging situations. 3.    Embrace Both Good and Bad: When faced with difficulties, focus on your blessings and trust that God will work everything for your good. 4.    Cultivate Healthy Relationships: Look for opportunities to serve and love those around you, building relationships that bring mutual joy. 5.    Daily Prayer: Start each day by asking for joy and guidance to walk according to God’s will, trusting His love will always be with you. Keywords for You How to find happiness in life Trusting God’s plan God’s design for your life Joy in trials Walking in God’s love Loving God with all your heart Mercy and happiness Overcoming struggles with faith Christian joy and peace Finding peace in difficult times
6 Tips for Handling Tough Conversations
17-11-2024
6 Tips for Handling Tough Conversations
In this video, Pastor Scott Thom shares six practical tips for handling challenging conversations constructively and gracefully. Drawing from Biblical wisdom, he emphasizes the importance of prayer, dignity, and wisdom when navigating difficult discussions. He advises listeners to be impartial, seek external confirmation, and choose the right setting to address the issue. The video also encourages focusing on the core issue and working toward restoration while preparing to take decisive action if necessary. By following these steps, individuals can handle tough conversations more successfully and preserve healthy relationships.   Discussion Questions: What is the most challenging aspect of having tough conversations for you?How can you ensure you listen and not just react during a difficult conversation?What does the Bible teach us about seeking wisdom before addressing conflicts, and how can we apply it?How do you determine the best time and place for a sensitive conversation?When facing a repeat offender or unresolved issue, what action steps might you need to take for the sake of the community?   Prayer Points: Pray for Wisdom: Ask God for guidance and the ability to approach difficult conversations gracefully and understanding.Pray for Dignity and Respect: Pray that you would honor others during conflict by listening well and treating them with respect.Pray for Restoration: Ask God for relationship healing and the strength to forgive and restore unity.Pray for Boldness: Pray for the courage to take necessary action when a situation calls for discipline or change.Pray for Others: Lift people involved in tough conversations around you so that they may also seek peace and wisdom in their interactions.   Action Steps: Prepare for a Difficult Conversation: Choose one upcoming tough conversation and apply these six tips to navigate it with wisdom and grace.Seek Wise Counsel: Consult a trusted mentor or friend for advice and prayer before addressing a tough issue.Set the Right Environment: Identify an appropriate time and place for a private, calm conversation with someone you need to talk to.Focus on Resolution: During your following difficult conversation, focus solely on resolving the core issue rather than allowing the discussion to become a heated argument or a distraction.Take Action if Needed: If you’ve addressed an issue repeatedly without resolution, consider the next steps needed to protect the health of the relationship or community.   Keywords Handling tough conversations Conflict resolution Biblical advice for tough talks How to handle difficult people Christian counseling tips Prayer for wisdom Restoring relationships Communication in Ministry Proverbs wisdom Dealing with conflict gracefully
Discovering Keys to Overcome Challenges in Your Success Journey
10-11-2024
Discovering Keys to Overcome Challenges in Your Success Journey
REASONS FOR FAILURE HOW TO SUCCEED In this video, Pastor Scott Thom discusses four key barriers that can prevent individuals from experiencing success in their lives, especially from a biblical perspective. These obstacles include indecision, complaining about shortages, shunning responsibility, and abusing freedoms. Through biblical examples and practical insights, Pastor Thom encourages viewers to take responsibility for their actions, use resources wisely, avoid blaming others, and trust in God's provision, even during challenging times. He emphasizes that true success comes from aligning our attitudes, actions, and decisions with God's will. Discussion Questions: 1.    How can indecision impact your ability to progress in life or business? 2.    Have you ever complained about a shortage (resources, support, etc.) instead of making the most of what you have? How can you change this mindset? 3.    Why is taking responsibility for your actions necessary for personal and spiritual growth? 4.    In what areas of your life might you abuse freedoms or neglect good stewardship? 5.    How can you encourage others to follow your example of faithfulness and hard work? Prayer Points: 1.    For Clarity in Decision-Making: Pray for God’s wisdom to make decisions that align with His will and for the courage to act when faced with tough choices. 2.    Against Complaints and Discontentment: Ask God to help you use every resource He has given you to the fullest and to be content even when there are shortages or limitations. 3.    For Accountability and Responsibility: Pray for the strength to take responsibility for your actions, to admit mistakes, and to grow through challenges. 4.    For Stewardship of Resources: Ask God to give you the wisdom to manage your time, money, and resources effectively and be faithful in small and large tasks. 5.    For Personal Growth and Success: Pray for spiritual and personal growth, that your success would reflect God’s glory and align with His plan for your life. Action Steps: 1.    Evaluate Areas of Indecision: Reflect on key decisions you're currently facing. Pray for God’s guidance and take action, trusting He will direct your steps. 2.    Shift from Complaining to Gratitude: Identify one area in your life where you’ve focused on what’s lacking. Instead, immediately use what you have, no matter how limited it seems. 3.    Take Responsibility Today: If there’s an area in your life where you’ve been avoiding responsibility, take the first step today to address it. Own up to mistakes, apologize if necessary, and make a plan to improve. 4.    Practice Good Stewardship: Look at your resources (time, money, relationships, etc.) and consciously decide to use them more wisely. Invest in something small that will yield growth in the future. 5.    Lead by Example: Set an example for others in your family, workplace, or community by modeling the attitudes of responsibility, gratitude, and good stewardship you’re cultivating. Keywords for you •    Biblical success principles •    Overcoming challenges in life •    Christian success strategies •    How to overcome indecision •    Stop complaining, start acting •    Biblical attitude for success •    Responsibility in life and work •    Stewardship in Christianity •    Developing godly character •    Pastor Scott Thom success tips •    Building a godly work ethic •    Faithfulness in small things •    How to achieve success in God’s way •    Christian personal development
The Evidence for God: A Journey Through Science and Faith
03-11-2024
The Evidence for God: A Journey Through Science and Faith
The Evidence for God: A Journey Through Science and Faith   Pastor Scott Thom discusses the relationship between science and faith, exploring how scientific discoveries can affirm belief in God. He emphasizes the importance of understanding both the natural world and spiritual truths, arguing that faith and reason are not mutually exclusive. The talk includes examples from various scientific fields that support the existence of a Creator, encouraging listeners to reflect on their own beliefs and the evidence surrounding them. CrossFellowship.org   Discovering God: Unseen Evidence   Discussion Questions How do you see the relationship between science and faith in your own life?What scientific evidence or arguments resonate with you in support of belief in God?Have you ever encountered challenges in reconciling your faith with scientific findings? How did you address them?In what ways can we engage others in conversations about faith and science?   Prayer Points Pray for clarity in understanding the relationship between science and faith.Ask for guidance in discussions about belief, particularly with those who may have doubts.Pray for opportunities to share your faith and the evidence supporting it.Seek wisdom for navigating conflicts between personal beliefs and scientific theories.   Action Steps Read a book or watch a documentary on the intersection of science and faith.Engage in discussions with friends or family about their views on science and religion.Attend a local discussion group or seminar on faith and science.Write down personal reflections on how scientific discoveries have impacted your faith journey.   Keywords for You Evidence for GodScience and faithChristian apologeticsPastor Scott ThomFaith vs. scienceCreation and evolutionSpiritual truthsScience in ChristianityBelief and reasonExploring faith
Why Doubt Holds You Back: Break Free Today! HOW TO CONQUER DOUBT
27-10-2024
Why Doubt Holds You Back: Break Free Today! HOW TO CONQUER DOUBT
In "Why Doubt Holds You Back: Break Free Today!" Pastor Scott Thom discusses the paralyzing effects of doubt on personal growth and faith. He emphasizes the importance of overcoming self-limiting beliefs and encourages listeners to trust in their abilities and faith in God. Through biblical references and personal anecdotes, Pastor Thom illustrates how doubt can hinder progress and provides practical steps to break free from it.   Discussion Questions What are some doubts you currently struggle with in your life?How can faith help you overcome these doubts?Can you share a time when overcoming doubt led to a significant change in your life?What practical steps can you take this week to confront your doubts?How does the community of faith play a role in supporting each other through doubt?   Prayer Points Pray for strength to confront and overcome doubts in your life.Ask for guidance to trust in God’s plan, even when uncertainty arises.Pray for the ability to support others in their struggles with doubt.Seek wisdom to recognize the difference between healthy questioning and destructive doubt.   Action Steps Identify one area of your life where doubt is holding you back and write it down.Set a specific goal to take a step forward in that area this week.Share your doubts with a trusted friend or mentor for accountability.Spend time in prayer or meditation focusing on building your faith.Reflect on and document instances where you’ve successfully overcome doubt in the past.   Keywords for You Overcoming doubtFaith and personal growthMotivational speechTrust in God Self-improvementSpiritual guidancePastor Scott ThomBreaking free from doubtInspirational message
How To Make Your Dream A Reality
20-10-2024
How To Make Your Dream A Reality
In the video "Make Your Vision Happen—Act Now," Pastor Scott Thom emphasizes the importance of taking immediate action to turn dreams and visions into reality. He encourages viewers to identify their goals, trust in God’s plan, and commit to taking tangible steps toward their aspirations. The message focuses on overcoming procrastination and fear, fostering a mindset of determination and faith. CrossFellowship.org Discussion Questions 1.    What specific vision or goal do you want to pursue now? 2.    What obstacles do you face in taking action towards your vision? 3.    How can faith play a role in overcoming fear and doubt? 4.    What practical steps can you take this week to reach your goal? 5.    How can we support each other in our journeys? Prayer Points •    Pray for clarity in identifying personal visions and goals. •    Ask for strength and courage to take actionable steps. •    Seek guidance to overcome any fears or procrastination. •    Pray for the community to support and uplift each other in their pursuits. •    Thank God for the opportunities and resources available to achieve our visions. Action Steps 1.    Write down your vision and break it into smaller, actionable steps. 2.    Set a timeline for achieving each step and hold yourself accountable. 3.    Share your vision with a friend or mentor for support. 4.    Reflect on your progress regularly and adjust your plan as needed. 5.    Engage in prayer or meditation to strengthen your resolve and focus. Keywords for You •    Vision •    Goal setting •    Faith •    Action steps •    Motivation •    Overcoming fear •    Community support •    Pastor Scott Thom •    Personal growth •    Spiritual guidance
3 Steps to Boost Confidence and Self-Worth
13-10-2024
3 Steps to Boost Confidence and Self-Worth
In the video "3 Steps to Boost Confidence and Self-Worth," Pastor Scott Thom discusses how to enhance self-worth and confidence through three key areas: character, competence, and the promises of Jesus. He emphasizes that true self-worth is grounded in one’s character and values, the development of skills and abilities, and ultimately, the unconditional love and validation found in Christ. He encourages viewers to avoid comparison with others and instead focus on personal growth and relationship with God. CrossFellowship.org - Join Pastor Scott's church no matter where you are. Discussion Questions 1.    How do you define character, and why is it essential for self-worth? 2.    What skills or abilities do you currently possess that you might undervalue? 3.    In what ways can Jesus’s promises impact your self-perception and confidence? 4.    How can we support each other in avoiding the comparison trap? 5.    What steps can you take this week to build your character or competence? Prayer Points •    Pray for clarity in understanding your unique value and identity in Christ. •    Ask for strength and guidance in developing your character and skills. •    Seek God’s help in releasing feelings of self-doubt and comparison to others. •    Pray for the ability to celebrate personal victories, no matter how small. •    Ask for wisdom to encourage and uplift others in their confidence journey. Action Steps 1.    Identify one character trait you want to work on this week. 2.    Choose a skill to develop or improve and dedicate time to practice it. 3.    Reflect daily on your worth in Christ and write down specific promises that resonate with you. 4.    Avoid comparing yourself to others; instead, track your personal growth. 5.    Celebrate a small victory this week and share it with someone to encourage them. Keywords for You •    Confidence building •    Self-worth •    Christian encouragement •    Character development •    Jesus’s promises •    Personal growth •    Overcoming self-doubt •    Faith and self-esteem •    Competence and skills •    Avoiding comparison