The Disciples Journal

If you’ve ever felt like you’ve drifted from God, like that fire you once had for Him has faded, this one’s for you. I know what it’s like to think you’re too far gone, to believe you have to “fix yourself” before you can come back to Him. That was me—stuck in shame, projecting my own feelings about myself onto God, convinced He had distanced Himself from me. But Exodus 34:6 completely shifted my view of Him. This is the first time in the Bible God describes Himself, and what He says will wreck every lie you’ve believed about how He sees you. In this episode, we’ll walk through the context of that verse, what it meant to the original audience, and why it still changes everything for us today. My prayer is that by the end, you’ll see Him more clearly and come back to Him with your head held high, knowing He still loves you, still chooses you, and is still faithful—no matter what. Want to go deeper and walk with God every day? Join me on After God’s Heart—a daily devotional podcast designed to help you know who He really is and ignite your passion for Him again. You can try it free for 7 days: https://aftergodsheart.carrd.co/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 14 August 2025

I didn’t realize how much of my confidence was wrapped up in how people saw me… until God started stripping that away. In this episode, I’m talking about where our confidence really comes from — and what happens when you try to build your identity on things that shift. Your job. Your relationship. Your reputation. Even your emotions. We walk through Matthew 16 and how Peter’s revelation of who Jesus is led to Jesus revealing who Peter was. And that’s the moment everything changes. If you’ve ever wrestled with insecurity, people-pleasing, or feeling like you’ve lost yourself — I think this one will really speak to you. Finding who you are starts with finding Him. And if you want to go deeper in the Word daily, check out my devotional podcast After God’s Heart. We walk through Scripture every morning together. You can try it free for 7 days using the link below: https://patreon.com/aftergodsheart Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 7 August 2025

I used to think I peaked in my relationship with God—that the passion I had in high school was something I’d never get back. But what I’ve learned is that love with Jesus doesn’t fade… it matures. In this episode, I share how I fell in love with Him all over again—what had to break off of me, what shifted in how I saw Him, and how you can get that fire back too. If you’ve ever felt distant from God or like you’ve lost your passion, I pray this speaks to you. And if you're ready to fall in love with Him again daily, come join me on After God’s Heart—a daily devotional podcast and community that helps you meet God in His Word and rediscover who He truly is. Tap the link below to start your 7-day free trial: https://www.patreon.com/c/afterGodsheart Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 30 July 2025

This one’s real personal. I just felt like it was time to slow down and let you all l in on what’s really been happening behind the scenes the last 9–10 months. A lot has changed in my life — new city, new church, deep community, and God doing a real work in my heart. But the biggest thing I had to face? There was this lie I didn’t even realize I was believing about God — and it had been shaping the way I saw Him, myself, and my purpose. In this episode, I’m sharing that story. What led me there. How He’s been peeling it all back. And the version of me I feel like He’s been slowly freeing me from. It’s kind of like a reset episode. I talk about where the podcast is going, what’s changing, and where I see God leading next. So if you've been in a season of transition, or you've ever wrestled with identity, ambition, or feeling like you’ve outgrown who you used to be — I think this one’s gonna hit home. Let me know what God’s been teaching you too. I’d love to hear it. Try After God’s Heart free for 7 days — daily devotionals, guided readings, and real conversations that help you walk with Jesus every single morning. 👉 https://aftergodsheart.carrd.co/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 23 July 2025

This might be one of the most important conversations we’ve had yet. In today’s episode of The Disciples Journal, we’re diving deep into what it actually means to walk in intimacy with Jesus. Not just following Him, but abiding in Him. You’ll hear how peace isn’t found in performance—but in a person. We’ll talk about the fruit of intimacy, why discipline without surrender leaves us empty, and how true transformation happens when we stop trying to fix ourselves and start beholding Him. I even share a powerful revelation God gave me about the veil at the altar—and how only Jesus can lift it. This is more than just a teaching. It’s a heart reset. Let’s get into it. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 21 July 2025

What if the real reason you feel distant from God… is something you’ve been overlooking? In today’s episode of The Disciples Journal, we’re unpacking Hebrews 12:14 — a verse that doesn’t just talk about holiness, but reveals why so many of us struggle to feel close to God. Darin breaks down how sin doesn’t drive God away from us… but it does distort our view of Him. Through a powerful moment of personal conviction, we explore how holiness isn’t about perfection — it’s about intimacy. About seeing God clearly. About giving Him all of who we are. Whether you’ve walked with God for years or you’re trying to find your way back, this episode will shift how you see sin, holiness, and the invitation God gives us every day to draw near. 🎧 Reflection Question: What’s one thing in your life right now that might be clouding your view of God? 👉 Want to go deeper and start building a consistent daily rhythm with God? Join me inside After God’s Heart — a daily devotional podcast that helps you grow in intimacy with Him one day at a time. You can start your 7-day free trial here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 16 July 2025

Do you know God, or do you just know about Him? That question cuts deep—and it’s exactly what we’re unpacking in today’s episode. As we officially launch After God’s Heart, I wanted to start with a conversation that’s foundational: intimacy with God. Drawing from Jeremiah 9:23–24, we explore the difference between boasting in what we do for God vs. actually walking in deep relationship with Him. This episode is a personal one. I’m sharing what shifted in my own journey—how consistency didn’t come from more discipline, but from more intimacy. You'll also hear how the fruit of the Spirit isn’t something you force... it's something that flows when you’re planted in the right place. And don't miss the powerful reflection from 1 Corinthians 13. It’ll challenge you to ask yourself: “What if I’m doing everything right, but missing the one thing that matters?” Ready to grow in your relationship with God? Try After God’s Heart free for 7 days and start a daily rhythm of intimacy with Jesus. 🎧 Tap the link to begin: https://aftergodsheart.carrd.co/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 14 July 2025

What if your story is the key to someone else's salvation? In today’s episode of The Disciples Journal, we’re digging into 1 Peter 2:9 and uncovering what this powerful verse reveals about your God-given purpose. You’ve been chosen, called, and commissioned — not just to be saved, but to shine. We’ll talk about: Why your testimony is God's proof The lie of “private faith” and what Scripture really teaches What it means to be a royal priesthood in your everyday life Why your influence is your responsibility — and no one else’s This isn’t just a responsibility. It’s a privilege. And your story is more than enough for God to use. If you’ve ever wrestled with what you’re here for, this episode will change how you see your calling. Want to feel closer to God every day? Start your 7-day free trial of After God’s Heart now: 👉 https://patreon.com/aftergodsheart Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 9 July 2025

What if your purpose isn’t just about what you do — but how you love? In today’s episode, we’re diving into Ephesians 5:1–2 to uncover a purpose we often overlook: walking in the love of Christ. This kind of love isn’t limited to people we agree with or those who treat us well — it’s a love that mirrors the sacrifice Jesus made for us. We’ll explore why loving difficult people is actually central to your calling, what Jesus meant when He said “be perfect as your Father is perfect,” and how imitating God’s love changes every conversation, every encounter, and every space you walk into. If you’ve ever wrestled with what God wants you to do, this episode will reframe everything by showing you who He’s calling you to be. Want to go deeper? Join the daily devotional experience through [After God’s Heart] — complete with daily episodes, a monthly reading plan, and live Bible study Zooms. Try it free at the link below. https://patreon.com/aftergodsheart Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 7 July 2025

What if your title didn’t determine your calling? In this episode, I’m digging into one of the biggest lies we’ve believed in church culture—that only pastors, leaders, or “special” people are called to represent God. But Genesis 1:26–28 tells a different story. I walk through the political context behind this passage and show how, in the ancient world, only kings were seen as the “image” of a god. But in Genesis, God flips the script and says every person is made in His image. That means you have been given divine authority and purpose—not someday, not if you get a title, but right now. If you’ve ever wondered whether you’re really called, or felt like purpose is for someone else, this episode will remind you who you are and what you were made for. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 2 July 2025

What if the reason you’re questioning your worth… is because you’ve been listening to the wrong story about why you’re here? In this episode of The Disciples Journal, we kick off a brand new July series focused on what God says about our purpose—and we’re starting right where it all began: Genesis 1:26. You might’ve read this verse before, but today we’re looking at it through the eyes of the people who first heard it—the Israelites fresh out of slavery. And when you understand the cultural and historical context, everything changes. You’ll learn why this one verse redefines how we see our value, our identity, and the intentionality of God’s design for your life. If you’ve ever wondered whether your life really matters or what God had in mind when He made you—this episode is for you. Start a 7 day free trial of After God's Heart today: https://patreon.com/aftergodsheart Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 30 June 2025

What if the reason you don’t feel confident in who you are… is because you’ve never seen God clearly? In this final episode of our June identity series, we go beyond affirmations and dive into the real path to discovering who you are in Christ. I unpack what it actually looks like to surrender your identity, how following Jesus leads to self-discovery, and why seeing God rightly is the first step to seeing yourself rightly. We’ll explore a powerful moment in Matthew 16 that reveals how God often shows us who we are in the places we least expect. If you’ve ever felt lost, unsure of your worth, or tempted to anchor your identity in what you do—this episode is your reset. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 25 June 2025

Are you trying to earn what God has already freely given you? In this episode of The Disciples Journal, we explore the liberating truth of Romans 5:1–2 — that we are justified by faith, not by performance. Darren unpacks what it means to stand in grace, how Jesus already did the work we often try to do ourselves, and why this changes everything about how we approach God. If you’ve ever felt the weight of having to prove yourself to be loved, this episode will help you breathe again. It’s not about striving — it’s about trusting. — 🎧 This devotional is part of the After God's Heart membership series. Get access to new daily devotionals every morning + live Zoom calls and a thriving community. 👉 Try it free for 7 days here: https://patreon.com/aftergodsheart Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 23 June 2025

Does your daily life reflect the fact that God lives in you? In this powerful episode of The Disciples Journal, we unpack what it really means when Scripture says your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19–20). This isn’t just a metaphor—it’s an invitation to intimacy, reverence, and transformation. Darin breaks down the original meaning behind Paul’s words to the Corinthian church, and how we too are called to prepare a life that honors God’s presence. If you’ve ever wondered how to make more room for God in your habits, home, and heart—this one’s for you. — 🎧 Want more daily devotional content like this? This episode is part of our After God’s Heart daily membership podcast — with brand-new episodes every morning + monthly live calls to help you walk with Jesus daily. 👉 Start your free 7-day trial here: https://patreon.com/afterGodsheart Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 20 June 2025

What does your life say about the God you claim to follow? In today’s episode of The Disciples Journal, we’re unpacking what it really means to be an ambassador for Christ (2 Corinthians 5:20). God has given us a title, a mission, and an identity—but are we actually living up to it? We’ll break down what an ambassador is, why it matters, and how God is calling us to represent His heart, values, and priorities in every space we walk into—from our public witness to our private habits. This episode will challenge you to reflect: Does my life reflect Him clearly? Or am I settling for something less? This series is part of my daily devotional podcast, After God’s Heart, where we dig deeper every morning into verses just like this—learning who God truly is and how to walk with Him daily. You can try it free for 7 days: https://www.patreon.com/aftergodsheart Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 18 June 2025

What if you’re not supposed to carry all of this on your own? In today’s episode of The Disciples Journal, we’re digging into 1 John 3:1–2 and what it really means to be called a child of God. This isn’t just poetic language—it's a powerful truth that reshapes how you see your past, your worth, and your daily dependence on God. We explore how your identity as God's child frees you from performance, striving, and self-reliance. You'll hear why God's design was never for you to carry the weight of life alone—and how the way He fathers us changes everything. This episode is also part of a special June series that flows directly from my daily devotional podcast After God’s Heart, where we go even deeper every single morning. You can try it free for 7 days and experience what it means to walk with God—not just believe in Him. Sign up for my daily devotional podcast today: https://www.patreon.com/c/afterGodsheart Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 11 June 2025

What if God doesn’t want to erase your past… but redeem it? In this first episode of our June series, Identity in Christ, I’m diving into 2 Corinthians 5:17—“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, they are a new creation.” But what does that actually mean for your everyday life? And what does it reveal about God’s heart? We’re unpacking why your past doesn’t disqualify you, how God meets you in the darkest places, and why real transformation isn’t about pretending you’ve never messed up—it’s about knowing who’s holding your story now. If this resonates with you, After God’s Heart, my daily devotional podcast on Patreon, is where we go even deeper into verses just like this—every single day. It's not about more information; it's about learning how to walk with God in real time and see His heart in every word of Scripture. You can even try it out free for 7 days Join After God's Heart Today: https://www.patreon.com/c/afterGodsheart Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 9 June 2025

Are you actually repenting… or just feeling bad? In this episode of The Disciples Journal, I’m unpacking what true repentance really means—and why it’s more than just saying “I’m sorry.” We’re breaking down the difference between worldly sorrow and godly sorrow, what it means to “make room” for God in your life, and why repentance is ultimately about relationship, not religion. From personal stories to powerful Scripture (Romans 2:4, Acts 26, 2 Corinthians 7:10), this episode challenges you to stop settling for half-hearted faith and start living in the fullness of life that Jesus offers. Repentance is the response the gospel demands. And it’s not out of guilt—it’s a response to His kindness. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 26 May 2025

What if the only thing standing between you and God… is a simple yes? In this episode of The Disciples Journal, I unpack what it means that Jesus offers us the gift of salvation and forgiveness—not something we earn, but something we receive. We dive into why God’s love isn’t based on performance, why your worth isn’t tied to what you do, and how the gospel flips everything we’ve been taught about value, acceptance, and grace. This one is for the weary, the striving, and the searching. Join my daily devotional podcast here: https://www.patreon.com/c/afterGodsheart Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 23 May 2025

What if I told you the resurrection of Jesus isn’t just something we celebrate—it’s everything we stand on? In this episode of The Disciples Journal, I’m breaking down one of the most powerful lines of the gospel creed:“Three days later, He rose from the dead, proving He is the Son of God.” We’ll look at why the resurrection is not just a comeback story—but confirmation that every claim Jesus made was true. I unpack what Scripture says in Romans 1:4 and 1 Corinthians 15:17, and why the resurrection isn’t optional for our faith—it’s foundational. But more than that, I share how the resurrection changes what’s possible for us right now. Because He rose, you don’t have to stay stuck in your guilt, shame, or spiritual death. There’s new life available. Not just someday—today. This is the turning point of history… and the starting point of hope. Let’s walk it out together. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 21 May 2025

What if Jesus didn’t just die for you—but also lived for you? Most of us focus on the cross, but miss the equally powerful truth: Jesus lived the perfect life we were meant to live. In today’s episode, I unpack what that really means—and why His obedience matters just as much as His sacrifice. We’re diving deep into what this says about God’s love, our identity, and the kind of grace that doesn’t just forgive—but credits us with righteousness we didn’t earn. This part of the gospel will shift how you see Jesus… and how you see yourself. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 14 May 2025

Join my daily devotional podcast here: https://patreon.com/aftergodsheart Has God ever felt distance in your life? In today’s episode, I’m continuing our journey into the wonder of the incarnation—God becoming human in the person of Jesus. We’ll explore how His humanity changes the way we view God, the way we see ourselves, and how we live each day. I’ll share how this truth has reshaped my understanding of God’s nearness and why it means more than we often realize. Whether you’re wrestling with doubt, pain, or just the busyness of life, this episode is a reminder that God didn't stay distant—He stepped into our story. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 7 May 2025

What if we’ve misunderstood the Gospel all along? In this episode, I pull back the curtain on the parts of the Gospel we often overlook or avoid. This isn’t just about what Jesus did—but why it matters in the everyday life of a believer. Join me as I unpack the deeper, often hidden truths of the Gospel that could completely change how you live, love, and follow Jesus. Join my daily devotional podcast here: https://patreon.com/aftergodsheart Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 5 May 2025

Have you ever questioned your purpose or struggled to hear God's voice? In this episode, I reflect on my journey since turning 23 and share the three key lessons I've learned as a believer. From understanding the true meaning of God's will for our lives to the importance of community and how to hear God's voice, I dive deep into the aspects of faith that can help you grow closer to Christ. Join my daily devotional podcast here: https://patreon.com/aftergodsheart Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 30 April 2025

Start my daily devotional podcast here: https://patreon.com/aftergodsheart Ever feel like you’re struggling to maintain a relationship with God? You're not alone. In today's episode of the Disciples Journal, I explore why our desires often shift away from God and how to get back on track. Learn how changing your spiritual diet, shifting your mindset, embracing community, and meditating on the Word can transform your spiritual journey. Discover practical tips to set the tone of your heart through worship and understand how belief plays a crucial role in your spiritual growth. Join me to find a deeper, more fulfilling connection with God. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 28 April 2025

Start my daily devotional podcast here: https://patreon.com/aftergodsheart Have you ever felt that you need to fix yourself before coming back to God? In today's episode, I share my personal journey of realizing that true restoration comes from relying on God's strength, not our own. I delve into the profound message of Matthew 4:19 and discuss the importance of following Jesus daily, shedding the performance pressure we often feel, and making God our ultimate source. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 23 April 2025

Start my daily devotional podcast here: https://patreon.com/aftergodsheart  Have you felt distant from God and unsure how to reconnect? In today's episode, I share my journey of overcoming shame and condemnation by letting God speak through His word. Learn how meditating on scripture helped me combat negative thoughts and build a personal relationship with God. Discover the importance of personal revelation from scripture and get practical tips for making God's word a daily part of your life. Plus, hear about my new daily devotional podcast aimed at deepening your walk with God. Join me and reignite your spiritual fire. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 21 April 2025

Start my daily devotional podcast: https://patreon.com/aftergodsheart Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 16 April 2025

Have you ever wondered why you struggle to hear God's voice? In this heart-to-heart episode I'm diving into the number one reason you might not be hearing from Him. Join me as I break down the misconceptions about who can hear God's voice and share practical tips for making your prayer life more authentic and effective. Together, we'll explore how to pray from the heart instead of performing, and how to tune out comparisons that distract you from your unique relationship with God. Let's get real and connect deeply with the divine voice that's waiting to speak to all of us. Join my daily devotional Podcast: https://patreon.com/aftergodsheart Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 14 April 2025

Free Guide: How to Get Closer to God  → https://stan.store/darinstarks/p/how-to-get-closer-to-god-guide Full Episode with Bethany → https://pod.link/1580867356/episode/5a8e5b463a1a69ce8ac7b5a760b820a9 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 7 April 2025

If you've ever wondered how to find complete satisfaction in Jesus, you're not alone. In today's episode, I share a highlight from my deep conversation with Bethany Moore. We explore what it truly means to be satisfied in Christ, emphasizing the importance of integrating Him into every facet of life rather than compartmentalizing Him into isolated practices. Tune in to learn practical steps for experiencing God's presence in everything you do, and how this can bring you unparalleled satisfaction and joy. Join the Closer to God Challenge: https://stan.store/darinstarks/p/closer-to-god-challenge Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 2 April 2025

Have you ever wondered how to rekindle your love for Jesus or why life's distractions seem to keep pulling you away? In this heartwarming and insightful episode of Disciples Journal, Bethany Moore shares her journey of returning to Jesus as her first love and finding deep, wholehearted devotion. In this episode, you’ll learn: • How to stay rooted in your faith amidst life's storms. • The power of community in fostering spiritual growth. • Why genuine worship goes beyond routines and touches all aspects of life. • Practical steps to integrate God into every detail of your daily activities. Bethany’s candid stories and thoughtful insights will inspire you to seek a deeper, more intimate relationship with God. Whether you’re feeling distant from your faith or simply wish to go deeper, this episode offers a roadmap to rekindling your spiritual passion. Timestamps: 00:00:00 - The Power of Wholehearted Devotion 00:13:00 - When Bethany Truly Fell in Love with God 00:17:00 - The Lesson From a Homeless Woman That Changed Everything 00:27:00 - How to Make Jesus the Love of Your Life 00:32:00 - Are You Seeking God or Just a Spiritual Routine? 00:50:00 - Stop Doing It Your Way—Why Obedience to God Matters 00:55:00 - Trusting God Beyond Your Preferences 01:02:00 - The Question That Will Change Your Faith Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 26 March 2025

Ever wondered how to truly make Jesus the love of your life? Join me in part seven of my series on making Jesus our first love as I sit down with Bethany Moore from the 'We Can Do Better' podcast. We dive into a heartfelt discussion about wholehearted devotion, maintaining spiritual intimacy, and ensuring that our walk with God remains vibrant and heartfelt. Discover practical insights and personal stories that highlight the importance of proactive faith and genuine fellowship with Christ. We Can Do Better - https://pod.link/1726463312 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 24 March 2025

Are you showing the love of God to those around you? In this episode of The Disciples Journal, I dive deep into the importance of extending our love for God to those we encounter in our daily lives. I discuss the idea that our devotion to God should naturally overflow to others if we claim to love him. I introduce you to Talitha Coffee, a San Diego-based specialty coffee roaster dedicated to empowering survivors of human trafficking. Through a touching conversation with co-founder Jenny Barber and VP of Growth and Marketing, Mark, I reveal how this company is making a real impact by providing employment and holistic support to survivors. The episode is filled with inspiring stories, practical ways to support the cause, and a call to action for all believers to extend God's love beyond the four walls of the church. Don't miss this compelling discussion on being the hands and feet of Jesus in a hurting world. Support Trafficking Survivors → https://talitha.com/?sca_ref=6851114.CJSCMN0GPnUHv Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 21 March 2025

Do you truly understand the depth of God's love for you? In this episode, I, Darren Starks, dive into the profound significance of the gospel and what every believer needs to know to deepen their relationship with Jesus. I'll provide updates on The Disciples Journal schedule, share encouraging feedback from listeners, and introduce three essential habits to foster intimacy with God. Through personal reflections and relatable analogies, I emphasize the importance of grasping the magnitude of Jesus' sacrifice and how it should inspire our daily walk with Him. Join me as we get back to the basics and rediscover the transformative power of the gospel. Free Guide: How to Get Closer to God  → https://stan.store/darinstarks/p/how-to-get-closer-to-god-guide Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 19 March 2025

Ever felt like your relationship with Jesus has gone cold? In this episode of The Disciples Journal, I dive into part four of our series focused on making Jesus our first love again. I share my personal reflections and insights on the importance of sacrificial devotion and why Jesus is worthy of our time, energy, and focus. Discover how to make room for God in your daily life, ensuring that your actions and environment invite His presence. Tune in for practical steps to deepen your intimacy with Jesus and rekindle that passionate relationship. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 13 March 2025

Ever wondered what it truly means to love God with all your heart, soul, and mind? In this episode of The Disciple's Journal, I delve into part three of our March series focused on making Jesus our first love again. I explore Matthew 22:37-38 and emphasize the importance of wholehearted devotion and surrendering everything to God, including our plans and decisions. Through reflections, scriptural insights, and personal experiences, I challenge you to let God write your story and live under His guidance. Tune in for an inspiring discussion on living in complete submission to God's will Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 10 March 2025

Ever wondered if God feels loved by you? In this episode of Disciples Journal, I continue the series on making Jesus your first love by exploring how to truly love God in a way that speaks His love language. Reflecting on my personal journey and drawing parallels with the sacrificial love of my mother, I discuss the importance of knowing God deeply to love Him fully. Tune in to discover practical steps to deepen your relationship with Christ, challenge your devotion, and make your love for Him undeniable. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 5 March 2025

Have you ever felt like your relationship with God has lost its passion? Join me, Darren Starks, host of The Disciples Journal, as we kick off a new series focused on making Jesus your first love again. In this episode, I share my heartfelt journey of rediscovery—how a change in mindset from 'doing the right things' to 'having the right heart' transformed my walk with Him. Learn how to engage in spiritual disciplines with genuine devotion and set the tone of your heart through worship. Let's reconnect with Jesus in a transformative way. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 3 March 2025

Has your relationship with God lacked intimacy recently? In this episode of the Disciples Journal as I dive into a conversation with my good friend Bethany Moore from the 'We Can Do Better' podcast. Bethany and I explore the profound concept of keeping Jesus as the 'dream' and maintaining Him at the center of every aspect of life. I reflect on my own walk with God over the past year, revitalizing my relationship with Jesus as my first love, and I share insights on discipleship, identity in Christ, and the importance of genuine passion toward God. As a precursor to my upcoming series focusing on loving God fully, this episode offers deep encouragement, teaching what it means to fall in love with Jesus every single day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 26 February 2025

Ever struggled with truly obeying God's plan for your life? In this episode, I'm joined by James Lowe as we delve into a heartfelt conversation about wrestling with our purposes, the challenge of aligning our personal desires with divine will, and the growth that comes from obedience to God. We recount a crucial past talk that catalyzed ourl journey, discuss key biblical principles like Matthew 16:24 and the story of Jonah, and explore what it means to genuinely surrender to God's calling. Join us as we tackle the importance of intimate relationship with God, the impact of complete obedience, and the ultimate fulfillment that comes from trusting His plan. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 24 February 2025

If you have ever struggled to accept God’s love (This is for you) In this episode of The Disciples Journal, I dive deep into the concept of God's unconditional love and why we often struggle to believe it. I explore how we sometimes project human relationship experiences onto God and question His genuine love for us. We'll talk about the romantic nature of God's patience and the beauty of His work in us. One big lesson I’ve been learning is that God's love is not transactional and that He values faithfulness over performance. Join me as we shift our perspective on God's ultimate love story and learn to embrace His love without striving. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 20 February 2025

Ever felt trapped in the endless cycle of temptation and lust? In this episode of The Disciples Journal, I delve into my personal journey of breaking free from the grips of pornography and transforming my mind. I'll share key insights on how I came to understand the authority given to us by God, the significance of community, and the importance of spending time in God's presence. I'll also talk about practical steps like meditating on the Word and changing what you feed your mind with. Join me as I explore how true liberation and purity can be achieved through a deeper relationship with Jesus. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 17 February 2025

Has your job, career, or purpose has become your identity? In this episode, I dive deep into a powerful realization that God has been prompting me to reassess my life's true occupation. I explore how our assignments and gifts often become idols that overshadow our true purpose as disciples and missionaries for the gospel. Through reflections on personal experiences and, I discuss the importance of making Jesus the center of our lives and ensuring that our careers and creative endeavors are merely expressions of our foundational calling to spread God's message. This has completely changed the way I see any work I’m apart of or jobs I have to.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 12 February 2025

In this conversation I share with you how to get of out the cycle of comparisons when it comes to your relationship with God. At times we will believe that God isn’t speaking to us because it doesn’t look the way it does for others. Not realizing that the way he may decide to move in one person’s life could simply be different than the way he decides to move in yours. And that’s okay. If you focus so much on how God is moving in someone’s else life you will miss the way he is moving in yours. This episode helps you break out of that trap of comparison. Join The Closer to God Challenge: https://stan.store/darinstarks/p/closer-to-god-challenge Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 10 February 2025

Ever struggled to maintain your spiritual momentum and keep your focus on God throughout the year? In this episode of the Disciples Journal, I share practical tips from my own experience on cultivating a consistent and deep relationship with God. I discuss the non-negotiable daily disciplines that anchor my faith, explore the importance of meditating on the Word, and highlight the integration of prayer with Bible study. Sign up for this live class here: https://stan.store/darinstarks/p/how-to-stay-consistent-with-god-live-class Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 5 February 2025

You have to let go of your ungodly timeline of who and what you thought you’d be by now. This is one of the greatest lessons I’ve learned and had to walk out these past few months! In this episode I take you through my own process of accepting God’s timeline for my life and getting out of comparing my life to others! (The audio is a bit distorted but I still hope this blesses you) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 3 February 2025

What you listen to matters! And it directly shapes your life and walk with God. In this episode of the Disciples Journal, I dive into what it actually means to meditate on God's Word and how to do so daily. I explain how what you fill your mind with—be it music, media, or scripture—manifests in your actions and sets the atmosphere for your life. Remember, your diet isn't just what you eat; it's also what you allow yourself to watch, hear, and listen to. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 29 January 2025

Ever felt like God's timing just doesn't match your schedule? In this episode of The Disciples Journal, I reflect on my recent experiences of answered prayers and the overarching lesson of trusting God's process. I'll share personal journal entries and scriptures that highlight the importance of documenting my prayers, recognizing God's hand in my life, and being patient with His process. Join me as I explore what it means to have faith in God's timing and stay obedient, even when it feels like nothing is happening. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 27 January 2025

When's the last time you gave God your undivided attention? In this episode I dive deep into my personal struggle with letting entertainment and information consume my attention, sharing how these distractions can subtly pull us away from genuine intimacy with God. Through the story of Mary and Martha, I explore practical ways to create space in our crowded lives for what truly matters and rediscover what it means to truly know God rather than just know about Him. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcribed - Published: 22 January 2025