Live Free with Josh Howerton

The final rung in the Beatitudes ladder is persecution. If that doesn’t sound appealing, you are not alone. In this episode, Pastor Mike walks us through why Jesus would have this as the final step. As you go about your day today, may God give you grace to see persecution as a momentary affliction compared to the surpassing joy of glorifying Him.

For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

As we continue climbing up the ladder of the Beatitudes, Pastor Mike focuses on peacemaking. Peacemaking requires significant maturity and humility. Today’s episode is full of truth and encouragement to help you live a lifestyle of peace.

For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

God wants our authenticity, not our image management. Pastor Mike unpacks this idea and how being transparent in our brokenness is another key to a joyful life. Let's remind ourselves of the happiness found in authenticity as we seek to be pure in heart.

For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

As we continue our journey through the Beatitudes, Pastor Mike reflects on Jesus' teachings of mercy. Those who recognize their need for mercy become givers of it. Let today’s episode be a reminder to live a life full of grace, forgiveness, and love, as we realize how much we've been forgiven and aim to let go of judgment and negativity.

For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

Pastor Mike continues exploring the Beatitudes from Jesus' Sermon on the Mount. The first four Beatitudes are described as internal preparation for a joy-filled life, while the next four are how that joy manifests externally or the presentation of a joy-filled life. Looking for more joy? Tune in!

For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

What if happiness wasn’t an external goal to achieve but was actually an internal state available to us now that results from a humble dependence on God’s grace? Tune in as Pastor Mike unpacks this idea and how we can find deep satisfaction and fulfillment when we hunger and thirst for God.

For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

Pastor Mike explores the richness of meekness, shattering the myth of it being synonymous with weakness. Discover the transformative power of surrendering control and how this step towards humility can lead to a life filled with God’s unfailing love.

For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

“Blessed are those who mourn.” Today, Pastor Mike unpacks the paradox of grief and its strange companion, happiness. As we reflect on the importance of brokenness, humility, and the desire to change, remember: blessed are those who acknowledge and mourn their spiritual poverty, for they will find comfort.

For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

Have you ever felt that fulfilling joy and happiness are just beyond your grasp? Tune in as Pastor Mike unpacks the paradox of being “poor in spirit” and how it can lead to profound happiness. Pastor Mike explores how acknowledging our spiritual need and humility paves the way to joy. Join us as we translate the profound wisdom of the Sermon on the Mount into modern, practical lessons for life.

For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

What if happiness isn't about what's happening around us, but rather what's happening in us? Pastor Mike dives into Jesus' sermon on the Mount and what it truly means to be happy according to His perspective. So, are you ready to redefine joy and find your way to true fulfillment? Let's do this together.

For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

As Pastor Mike wraps up our series on discovering God’s Waze, he emphasizes the importance of keeping God's perspective, knowledge, and affection at the forefront of our lives. By pursuing His character and desires, we allow God to guide our choices, ensuring that we become the right person in the right place.

For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

In today's episode, Pastor Mike dives into the importance of having close spiritual companions in our journey and how their counsel can help us navigate life's big decisions. He also discusses the importance of seeking counsel from a few trusted friends who know and love Jesus, and who know and love you. Tune in and discover how you can discern God's will for your life through the guidance of your close spiritual companions.

For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

Navigating life can be a challenging journey, and sometimes we need a little help finding our way. That's where the power of God's presence comes in. By being guided through His word and the presence of His Spirit, we can make choices that align with our passions and purpose.

For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

Are you a pouter or a shouter? This episode is all about understanding our communication styles and learning how to use them to honor God and build stronger relationships. The gift of communication that God has bestowed upon us can be used to encourage, provide direction, express anger, and much more.

For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

Everyone worries. In this podcast episode, Pastor Steve discusses the topic of worry and provides advice on overcoming it. He emphasizes the importance of obeying God and staying within His will to avoid unnecessary worries. And, by praising God, our worries diminish in comparison to His greatness.

For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

Will this help or hurt me, will this help or hurt someone else, and will this help or hurt the cause of Christ? In this episode, Pastor Steve Stroope shares the two types of God's will: the moral will and the non-moral will. The moral will consists of things that are always right or wrong. Pastor Steve introduces three questions to discern God's moral will that will help you discern the path God wants you to choose.

For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

In today’s episode, Pastor Steve Stroope discusses the concept of temptation and why we should find joy in it. He explains that temptation is an opportunity for growth and strengthening our faith. The story of Paul and Silas in Philippi, who trusted God and sang praises despite being imprisoned, emphasizes that enduring temptation makes us spiritually stronger. Their faith, like our own, grows stronger with each trial faced.

For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

Why does God prune us? Today, we're taking a stroll through the garden of life, exploring the concept of pruning, both in horticulture and our spiritual journey. Join us as we explore how gardening principles can guide us toward spiritual growth and a fruitful life.

For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

Are you ready for some guidance on how to navigate the decisions in your life while walking with God? Together, let's discover one of the ways God offers direction for our journey: through the filter of His Word. The Bible is a treasure trove of hope, truth, wisdom, comfort, and challenge. As we read, study, and apply its teachings, we gain discernment for our path. When you're passionate about something and unsure whether it aligns with God's plan, run it through the filter of Scripture. You'll find that His ways are not only right but always best.

For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

Pursuing God can impact the way we think about His will and purpose for our lives. Pastor Mike discusses the principle of delighting in the Lord and making Him your primary passion, so you can trust that He's giving you the green light to pursue the dreams and desires He has placed in your heart. Let God’s guidance lead you in the pursuit of your dreams and desires.

For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

God's will for our lives doesn't have to be as complicated as we often make it out to be. Pastor Mike unpacks how waiting actively and living dependently on God can lead us to make wise decisions and live a deeply fulfilling life. We can trust our Heavenly Father!

For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

Learn how trusting in the Lord and doing good helps us cultivate faithfulness and delight in God while realizing that God's will is more about who we become than what we do or where we go. Tune in as Pastor Mike shares practical examples of how to incorporate daily surrender into various situations, from work meetings to personal relationships, and experience the peace and fulfillment that comes from doing life with God moment by moment.

For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

Today’s episode is all about embracing God's guidance as we navigate our lives and the sheer delight of having Him as our ultimate road trip companion. Pastor Mike continues on in Psalm 37 and encourages listeners to surrender each day to God’s will and embrace the adventure!

For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

Ready to uncover the true secret to aligning your desires with God's will? Join us as Pastor Mike continues in Psalm 37, discussing the importance of trusting in the Lord and delighting in Him. Learn how prioritizing our relationship with God can lead to the fulfillment of our deepest desires. Discover the joy and meaning that comes from truly delighting in the Lord and experiencing a more satisfying life.

For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

God's delays are not denials but rather opportunities for Him to shape our character and prepare us for something better. Tune in as Pastor Mike unpacks the importance of becoming the right person by doing the right thing where you currently are. Embrace the true meaning of trusting in the Lord and cultivating faithfulness, even in the midst of uncertainty.

For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

Discover the power of waiting actively and living dependently on God as we navigate the uncertainties of life in today’s episode. Join Pastor Mike as he explores the significance of doing the right thing while waiting for answers to our prayers and decisions. Whether it's in our careers, relationships, or personal growth, learn how to cultivate faithfulness and trust in God's plan even when the future seems uncertain.

For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

Get ready to redefine the concept of waiting and discover the blessings that come along with it! In today's episode, Pastor Mike explores how to wait actively and live dependently on God. Trust us, waiting will never be the same again!

For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

God’s plan is to have the right person, in the right place, for his right purposes. Tune in as Pastor Mike unpacks the story of Joseph. Joseph trusted in God’s promises to him, despite all of his difficult circumstances and situations. His story reminds us to trust in God’s plan for us, even when things don’t make sense. We can trust in and surrender to God’s plans, purposes, and provision.

For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

God is always working behind the scenes, even when things seem bleak or hopeless. In the waiting, in the difficulty, and in the darkness, it can be difficult to remain focused and hopeful in God's promises to us. Joseph's story is a classic tale of faith, perseverance, and resilience. Despite the many challenges he faced, he never gave up on his dream and remained faithful to God.

For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

God is more interested in our character rather than our comfort. It may feel as if we are not living up to our expectations of what life should look like. When God calls us to follow Him, He is not calling us to a carefree life full of comfort, peace, and plenty; He is calling us to trust in Him as our good father. He calls us to align our expectations with His, allowing Him to shape our character day by day.

For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

The story of Joseph teaches us that even when we are in difficult situations, we can still choose to work hard with excellence and a great attitude. We can trust that God has a plan for our lives and will use even difficult situations to bring about good. So, if you're feeling lost and unsure about your purpose in life, take heart. God has a plan for your life, and He will use even the difficult situations to bring about good.

For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

Are your current circumstances not what you believed they would be, could be, or should be? When we are faced with difficulties in life, we can often wonder why we are experiencing them, as well as how God could possibly be using us or growing us in those situations. Despite being sold into slavery by his brothers, Joseph served with excellence, integrity, kindness, and joy. We may not understand why we're going through certain things, but we can trust that God is with us and shaping us into the person we are meant to be.

For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

Are your current circumstances not what you believed they would be, could be, or should be? When we are faced with difficulties in life, we can often wonder why we are experiencing them, as well as how God could possibly be using us or growing us in those situations. Despite being sold into slavery by his brothers, Joseph served with excellence, integrity, kindness, and joy. We may not understand why we're going through certain things, but we can trust that God is with us and shaping us into the person we are meant to be.

For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

Today's podcast discusses how we can trust God's plan for our lives when we can't see the bigger picture. God's plan for our lives is more about who we are becoming as people than what we do or where we go. It's important to desire a relationship with God more than His answers for our lives. It is out of that intimacy that we become sensitive to his voice of leadership.

For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

In this episode, Pastor Mike Breaux dives into three foundational principles for understanding God's will. First, we learn that God's will is more about the person we are becoming than what we do or where we go. Second, we discover that God longs for us to desire Him more than His answers for our life. And third, we emphasize that our role is not to find God's will but to follow God's voice.

For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

Are you someone who's constantly seeking answers from God? Do you feel like you're more interested in God's plan for your life than in God Himself? You're not alone! In this episode, Pastor Mike Breaux discusses the principle that God wants us to desire Him MORE than His answers for our life. So, let's prioritize our relationship with God above all else, seek His face and presence, and trust that He will guide and instruct us.

For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

When we think about God's will, our minds often jump to decisions, choices, and options, but God's primary focus is on who we are. God is not just a directional guide but rather a sculptor who wants to mold us into the masterpiece He has envisioned for us. Today's episode offers a powerful reminder that God is actively working in our lives, shaping us into the person He has designed us to be.

For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

Do you ever feel lost or unsure of where you're headed in life? Do you wish you had a GPS to guide you through life's twists and turns? God can be that GPS for you. Just like the Waze app, God can show you the fastest route to your destination, warn you of traffic and accidents, and even take you on a scenic route if that's what you need.

For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

God transforms us as we allow Him to work. When we surrender and focus on what is true, our behavior transforms. Not because we try harder but because He makes us new when we allow Him in. All we need to do is believe. God will do the rest.

For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

We have to renew our minds because it’s so easy to go back to the old way of thinking. We are made new in Christ and our past identity no longer is who we are. Being in an honest community and establishing new positive habits helps us walk in the truth of who we are. We are free from what we do, but walking in freedom is our choice.

For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

Like a football player being traded to a new team, we have put on a new jersey in Christ. We played for the enemy, but now we have been put on a new team. Pastor Mike reminds us that even though it might be difficult not reverting to how we played previously, that doesn't change the team we belong to. Big idea: Don't allow old habits to confuse you about which team you are on.

For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

Guilt can be helpful in showing us something is wrong. Shame, on the other hand, comes from unresolved guilt and accuses us of being something we are not. Grace is the weapon to fight shame. We gain access to this grace through faith in the truth of what Jesus has done. We pray that today’s episode encourages you!

For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

Guilt can be a tool that God uses to help us know something is wrong. However, Satan distorts guilt for his own plan. Pastor Mike encourages us in this episode not to let guilt define us. Let it show us where we need more of God's grace and move us closer to the One who gives us our identity.

For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

Jesus has compassion for all of us “doers” who want to earn our way to His love. Let's draw near to Him, let His love define us, and let go of our obsession with works. Pastor Mike unpacks a powerful lesson from the rich, young ruler who met Jesus. Are you choosing to let God’s love define your identity?

For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

As we continue to think about our identity in reference to what we do, we have to consider if we have a worship problem. We will worship one of two ways. We will either worship God or man-made images. In worshiping God, we see ourselves in light of who He is, rather than what we do. In worshipping man-made images, we endlessly strive to perform, keep up, or impress.

For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

We need to redefine how we think of success in terms of God's great power, not our work. In this episode, Pastor Mike reminds us that it is all on Him, not on us. Success is not based on our performance.

For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

Pastor Mike challenges us to channel our God-given drive to work hard, compete, achieve, and excel in a healthy, humble, and God-honoring way. We don't need to try to earn the love that has already been given. In Christ, we are already accepted and applauded by the One who matters most.

For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

Performance and success are not where our identity is found. There are so many ways to get sidetracked: our children’s achievements, our career, and even comparison with other believers. Tune in to today’s episode as Pastor Mike encourages us to rest in who God says we are and enjoy our uniqueness rather than comparing ourselves to others.

For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

As we continue in this series, Pastor Mike reminds us that we are fearfully and wonderfully made to reflect God's truth and image to the world. Our Creator, not the mirror, defines us. You are free to stop looking to the mirror and become the mirror of the only one worth looking at: Our beautiful Creator.

For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive

It is all too easy to let self-obsession shrink your world. Tune in as Pastor Mike reminds us that loving God and serving others is the antidote to self-obsession. Feeling the love and acceptance of God comes from focusing on the right things. So today, shift your gaze from yourself, and instead, fix your eyes on the One who perfectly loves. This is a game-changer.

For more information, visit lakepointe.church/dailydrive