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Run With Horses
Norman Smith
100 episodes
1 day ago
The Run With Horses podcast strives to help disciples of Jesus reach their full potential. Join us for practical advice to help overcome spiritual roadblocks and find the motivation you need to persist through life’s trials. Let’s answer God’s call to be disciple makers together!
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Christianity
Religion & Spirituality
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All content for Run With Horses is the property of Norman Smith and is served directly from their servers with no modification, redirects, or rehosting. The podcast is not affiliated with or endorsed by Podjoint in any way.
The Run With Horses podcast strives to help disciples of Jesus reach their full potential. Join us for practical advice to help overcome spiritual roadblocks and find the motivation you need to persist through life’s trials. Let’s answer God’s call to be disciple makers together!
Show more...
Christianity
Religion & Spirituality
Episodes (20/100)
Run With Horses
Raising Up Shepherds from Within - Part 4
rwh01nov2025 Ep.388 – Run With Horses Podcast – Raising Up Shepherds from Within - Part 4Podcast: rwh.podbean.comWebsite: www.runwithhorses.netYoutube: https://youtube.com/@rwhpodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/RWHpodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/rwh_podcastTwitter: https://twitter.com/RWH_podcastAuthor pages with links to all books on Amazon.https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BCSDDVLB – James Norman Smithhttps://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BMGW51FW – Susan Jane Smith PART 4Preparing Lay Members for Pastoral Ministry
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1 day ago
56 minutes

Run With Horses
Raising Up Shepherds from Within Part 3
rwh25oct Ep.387 – Run With Horses Podcast – Raising Up Shepherds from Within Part 3Podcast: rwh.podbean.comWebsite: www.runwithhorses.netYoutube: https://youtube.com/@rwhpodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/RWHpodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/rwh_podcastTwitter: https://twitter.com/RWH_podcastAuthor pages with links to all books on Amazon.https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BCSDDVLB – James Norman Smithhttps://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BMGW51FW – Susan Jane Smith As a local body of followers of Jesus, we must embrace the call to be disciple makers on His mission. That includes equipping members for the leadership roles that we need locally as well as to proclaim the name of Jesus in the next town. We need to raise up shepherds in the church.
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1 week ago
56 minutes

Run With Horses
Raising Up Shepherds from Within Part 2
rwh11oct Ep.385 – Run With Horses Podcast – Raising Up Shepherds from WithinPodcast: rwh.podbean.comWebsite: www.runwithhorses.netYoutube: https://youtube.com/@rwhpodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/RWHpodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/rwh_podcastTwitter: https://twitter.com/RWH_podcastAuthor pages with links to all books on Amazon.https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BCSDDVLB – James Norman Smithhttps://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BMGW51FW – Susan Jane Smith   We are in a crisis in many of our churches. There is no pastor and no pastor on the way. What does that mean for the church? Is there a path forward toward health and growth? I believe so, and I believe that at least part of the answer is already in our church. Today we are continuing to look at raising up shepherds from within the church.
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2 weeks ago
56 minutes

Run With Horses
Raising Up Shepherds from Within
rwh11oct Ep.385 – Run With Horses Podcast – Raising up shepherds from withinPodcast: rwh.podbean.comWebsite: www.runwithhorses.netYoutube: https://youtube.com/@rwhpodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/RWHpodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/rwh_podcastTwitter: https://twitter.com/RWH_podcastAuthor pages with links to all books on Amazon.https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BCSDDVLB – James Norman Smithhttps://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BMGW51FW – Susan Jane Smith
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3 weeks ago
55 minutes

Run With Horses
Addressing The Pastor Shortage
rwh04oct Ep.384 – Run With Horses Podcast – Equipping or Educating?Podcast: rwh.podbean.comWebsite: www.runwithhorses.netYoutube: https://youtube.com/@rwhpodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/RWHpodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/rwh_podcastTwitter: https://twitter.com/RWH_podcastAuthor pages with links to all books on Amazon.https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BCSDDVLB – James Norman Smithhttps://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BMGW51FW – Susan Jane The Probelm• Median age of U.S. Christians has risen (median Christian age ~54), which corresponds with an older pastoral workforce. • Surveys show large shares of pastors have seriously considered quitting in recent years (Barna reported ~33–40% had considered quitting in the early 2020s). Covid had a huge impact and pointed out some problems.• Research finds only a small percent (about ~1% per year) actually permanently leave pastoral ministry for reasons other than retirement, but the pipeline into pastoral roles is thin and many serve bivocationally. (Lifeway and other research summarize low annual exit rates but continued recruitment shortfalls.) • Many groups lose members (reported membership declines in recent annual reports), which affects church budgets and pastoral hiring.   
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1 month ago
56 minutes

Run With Horses
Are we Equipping or only Teaching?
rwh27sept Ep.383 – Run With Horses Podcast – Equipping or Educating?Podcast: rwh.podbean.comWebsite: www.runwithhorses.netYoutube: https://youtube.com/@rwhpodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/RWHpodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/rwh_podcastTwitter: https://twitter.com/RWH_podcastAuthor pages with links to all books on Amazon.https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BCSDDVLB – James Norman Smithhttps://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BMGW51FW – Susan Jane Smith (24:00)Our churches are great at teaching Biblical truth. But sometimes I wonder if we do as well at equipping people for the work of teh ministry. That’s topic of today’s show! Welcome to Run With Horses! My name is Norman and my goal is to help you thrive as a follower of Jesus. The spiritual life is simple in many ways, but potentially the most difficult part of your life. God invites you to grow, to live intentionally and to join in His mission. It’s very cool that we can do that together!Thank you for joining me today! “If you’re new here, you can check out past episodes at runwithhorses.net. As always, I appreciate your feedback, questions, and reviews!” *(23:00 – 0:00) * PART 1Run With Horses is on the radio! If you are enjoying Run With Horses, would you let someone know? Contact the radio station or leave a review on your favorite app. We want to hear from you! Teaching and Equipping I. Introduction• Many churches excel at teaching but struggle with equipping. The result is knowledge without action, or action without foundation.• How do teaching and equipping differ, and how should they work together in the life of the church? ⸻ II. Defining the Terms A. Teaching• Imparting knowledge, doctrine, and biblical truth.• Scripture: B. Equipping• Preparing believers with tools, skills, and confidence to serve and live out their faith. VI. The Role of Leaders and Members A. Leaders’ Responsibility• To both teach and equip.• 1 Timothy 4:11–12 – “These things command and teach. Let no one despise your youth, but be an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity.” B. Members’ Responsibility• To move from being hearers to active participants in ministry.• Hebrews 10:24–25 – “And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching.” ⸻ VII. Practical Challenges• Overemphasis on knowledge can create spiritual spectators.• Overemphasis on activity without grounding leads to burnout or error.• Baptist churches must intentionally integrate both for effective discipleship. ⸻Teaching informs; equipping transforms. Teaching fills the mind; equipping activates the hands and heart. Both are necessary for a healthy, missional church. ⸻ Teaching Transfers Information; Equipping Shapes People• Teaching is about what you know. Equipping is about who you become and what you do.• Example: The Pharisees were excellent teachers of the Law, but they failed to equip people to live it (Matthew 23:3). 👉 Knowledge is relatively easy to pass on in a classroom; transformation requires walking with people in real life. ⸻ Equipping Requires Application and Practice• Teaching can stop at hearing; equipping demands doing.• James 1:22 – “But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.”• Equipping means giving people opportunities to serve, make mistakes, and grow — which is harder than just lecturing. ⸻ Equipping Requires Relational Investment• Teaching can happen from a pulpit; equipping usually happens through discipleship, mentoring, and modeling.• 2 Timothy 2:2 – Paul didn’t just teach Timothy; he entrusted him with responsibility to teach others.• This relational work is time-consuming and often messy. ⸻ Equipping Challenges Comfort Zones• Many believers are comfortable learning but hesitant to step into ministry.• Ephesians 4:12 – equipping
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1 month ago
56 minutes

Run With Horses
Asking Better Questions - Moving Towards Disciple Making Multiplicationi
rwh20sept Ep.382 – Run With Horses Podcast –  Podcast: rwh.podbean.comWebsite: www.runwithhorses.netYoutube:  https://youtube.com/@rwhpodcastFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/RWHpodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/rwh_podcastTwitter:  https://twitter.com/RWH_podcastAuthor pages with links to all books on Amazon.https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BCSDDVLB – James Norman Smithhttps://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BMGW51FW – Susan Jane Smith **(24:00)**The questions you ask often determine the kinds of answers you get. How do our questions impact our ability to make disciples, develop leaders and plant new churches? That’s the topic of today’s show! Welcome to Run With Horses! My name is Norman and my goal is to help you thrive as a follower of Jesus. The spiritual life is simple in many ways, but potentially the most difficult part of your life. God invites you to grow, to live intentionally and to join in His mission. It’s very cool that we can do that together!Thank you for joining me today! “If you’re new here, you can check out past episodes at runwithhorses.net. As always, I appreciate your feedback, questions, and reviews!” **(23:00 – 0:00)* *  PART 1Run With Horses is on the radio! If you are enjoying Run With Horses, would you let someone know? Contact the radio station or leave a review on your favorite app. We want to hear from you! ⸻ Multiplication Thinking Part 1: The Power of the Questions We Ask (Vision & Theology) Theme: Questions reveal what we believe about God’s mission, our role, and the future.** 1. Why Questions Matter ** Questions expose vision (or the lack of it) Show how “addition” questions limit scope vs. “multiplication” questions which expand possibilities. Example: “How many people can I gather?” (Level 2 thinking) vs. “How many disciple-makers can I release?” (Level 4-5 thinking)..The Five Levels of Church Mutiplication1.subtraction 2. Plateau 3.addition 4. Reproducing 5. Multiplication.*** 2. The Five Levels of Leadership (from Hero Maker) *** • Level 1: I count (thinking addition, personal results). • Level 2: I count what I do (improving programs). • Level 3: I count what we do together (team success). • Level 4: I count leaders I raise up (reproduction). • Level 5: I count leaders who multiply leaders (movement/multiplication). • Use examples of how each level asks progressively bigger questions. *** 3. Biblical and Theological Foundation ***. • Jesus modeled multiplication: He invested in 12 → sent 72 → great commission to all. • Paul’s instruction to Timothy: “Entrust to reliable people who will also be qualified to teach others” (2 Tim. 2:2). • The kingdom grows like a seed — designed for multiplication, not maintenance (parable of the mustard seed, yeast in the dough). *** 4. Why Maintenance Mindset is Dangerous *** • It keeps leaders in survival mode (protecting what is). • It makes ministries inward-focused rather than kingdom-focused. • Ultimately, it limits generational impact. ***  5. Challenge: *** • What questions are you currently asking in your ministry? • Are they addition questions or multiplication questions? • (Good interactive moment: invite participants to write down their top 2 questions they ask about ministry and assess what “level” they reflect.) ⸻ **(00:00) END PART 1****(27:00 – 5:00) BEGIN PART 2* Part 2: Asking Multiplication Questions  Leaders at every level can shift from addition to multiplication by the questions they ask.*** 1. Shifting the Question at Every Level of Leadership***. • Sunday school teacher: Instead of “How many kids will show up?” ask “How many kids can I equip to share their faith?” • Deacon/volunteer leader: Instead of “How do I fill this need?” ask “Who can I invite and empower to step into leadership?” • Pastor: Instead of “How do we grow this church?” ask “How do we plant churches and send leaders?” • Church planter: Instead of “How do I build this church strong?” ask “How do I build this to multiply from the sta
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1 month ago
56 minutes

Run With Horses
Barriers for a Disciple Maker
Rwh13sep Ep.381 – Run With Horses Podcast –  3 Barriers Disciple Makers FacePodcast: rwh.podbean.comWebsite: www.runwithhorses.netYoutube:  https://youtube.com/@rwhpodcastFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/RWHpodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/rwh_podcastTwitter:  https://twitter.com/RWH_podcastAuthor pages with links to all books on Amazon.https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BCSDDVLB – James Norman Smithhttps://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BMGW51FW – Susan Jane Smith Barriers to Disciple-Making Part 1: Why These Things Are a Problem 1. Busyness ( • Define it: Activity without intentionality. • Luke 10:41–42:2. Apathy • A lack of concern for spiritual needs. • Revelation 3:15–16: 3. Lack of Discipline • Inconsistent rhythms of prayer, Word, and mission. • 1 Corinthians 9:27 (: Part 2: What We Can Do About It 1. Countering Busyness with Margin • Ephesians 5:15–16: 2. Countering Apathy with Love and Prayer • Matthew 9:37–38: 3. Countering Lack of Discipline with Spiritual Good Habits • Luke 9:23 : 
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1 month ago
56 minutes

Run With Horses
5 Traits of a Disciple Maker
Rwh06sep Ep.380 – Run With Horses Podcast –  5 Traits of Disciple Makers Podcast: rwh.podbean.com Website: www.runwithhorses.net Youtube:  https://youtube.com/@rwhpodcast Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/RWHpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rwh_podcast Twitter:  https://twitter.com/RWH_podcast Author pages with links to all books on Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BCSDDVLB – James Norman Smith https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BMGW51FW – Susan Jane Smith   1.. The Call to Discipleship •Jesus’ Invitation •Mark 1:17 •Goal of Discipleship •Romans 8:29   2.. Theological Foundation of Spiritual Growth •The Seed Growing •Matthew 13:31–32 •Athletes Training •1 Corinthians 9:24–27 •Endurance in the Race •Hebrews 12:1–2   3.. Core Virtues in the Journey   1. Discipline •1 Timothy 4:7–8 2. Perseverance •James 1:2–4   3. Risk-Taking (Faith in Action) •Jonathan and His Armor-Bearer (1 Samuel 14:6–7) •Risk: Attacking a Philistine garrison with just two men. •Faith: Jonathan trusted that God was not limited by numbers or strength. •Outcome: God gave them victory, sparking courage in Israel.     4. Curiosity (A Holy Hunger) •Acts 17:11   Zacchaeus Seeking Jesus •Luke 19:3–4 •Curiosity: Zacchaeus was determined to see Jesus. •Outcome: His seeking led to salvation coming to his house.   Godly curiosity: •Is fueled by humility (acknowledging we don’t know everything). •Leads to greater revelation (God meets seekers with truth). •Results in deeper faith and obedience, not mere intellectual satisfaction.   5. Integrity (Wholeness and Consistency) •Matthew 5:37   6.. Conclusion •Philippians 1:6 •Return to Jesus’ words: “Follow Me, Fish for men.”   – “Thank you for listening today!  -If you enjoyed the show you can listen to all the past shows wherever you listen to podcasts. A good place to start is at runwithhorses.net. You can also write me at norman@runwithhorses.net or leave a comment on the Run With Horses Podcast facebook page. Day by day, God is transforming us into the image of His Son. Be encouraged that He will complete His work! And Until next time, keep your eyes on Jesus and never stop running."
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1 month ago
55 minutes

Run With Horses
Supporting Your Pastor's Wife
Rwh30aug Ep.379 – Run With Horses Podcast –  Supporting Your Pastor’s WifePodcast: rwh.podbean.comWebsite: www.runwithhorses.netYoutube:  https://youtube.com/@rwhpodcastFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/RWHpodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/rwh_podcastTwitter:  https://twitter.com/RWH_podcastAuthor pages with links to all books on Amazon.https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BCSDDVLB – James Norman Smithhttps://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BMGW51FW – Susan Jane Smith
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2 months ago
56 minutes 7 seconds

Run With Horses
Following Jesus is a Journey, Part 2
Rwh23aug Ep.378 – Run With Horses Podcast –  Following Jesus is a Journey, Part 2 Podcast: rwh.podbean.com Website: www.runwithhorses.net Youtube:  https://youtube.com/@rwhpodcast Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/RWHpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rwh_podcast Twitter:  https://twitter.com/RWH_podcast Author pages with links to all books on Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BCSDDVLB – James Norman Smith https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BMGW51FW – Susan Jane Smith   **(24:00)** If you feel like the spiritual life is an uphill battle sometimes you are probably in the right place. It is a journey of a lifetime that brings trials, and joys, that reveal your heart condition and point you to Christ. God is at work in the details and walks with you on the journey.   Welcome to Run With Horses! My name is Norman and my goal is to help you thrive as a follower of Jesus. The spiritual life is simple in many ways, but potentially the most difficult part of your life. God invites you to grow, to live intentionally and to join in His mission. It’s very cool that we can do that together! Thank you for joining me today! “If you’re new here, you can check out past episodes at runwithhorses.net. As always, I appreciate your feedback, questions, and reviews!”   **(23:00 – 0:00)* *  PART 1   ### *2: Expect Seasons of Slow Growth and Struggle • Psalm 13:1-2 – “How long, O Lord? Will You forget me forever? How long will You hide Your face from me? How long shall I take counsel in my soul, having sorrow in my heart daily? How long will my enemy be exalted over me?”   Key • Struggles don’t indicate lack of growth; God often strengthens faith in hidden ways during hard times.   Applications for Disciple Makers •Prepare disciples for inevitable dry seasons—normalize them. •Teach perseverance; encourage trust in God’s timing. •Model honesty about struggles (Psalms as a prayer guide).   Illustrations •Israel in the wilderness (Deuteronomy 8:2). •Winter season for a tree—growth still occurs underground. •Missionary biographies (e.g., Adoniram Judson’s long seasons of waiting).   ⸻   ### *3: Be an Active Participant in Growth (Spiritual Disciplines) • God provides growth, but believers must cooperate through obedience and spiritual disciplines. • Abiding in Christ sustains transformation. * Daily pursuit of godliness as Paul challenged Timothy   Philippians 2:12-13 – “Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling; for it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure.”   Hebrews 5:14 –“But solid food belongs to those who are of full age, that is, those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.”   John 15:4-5 –“Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in Me. I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing.”   #### Key • Growth is not passive; disciplines keep us aligned with God’s transforming work.   Applications for Disciple Makers •Practice spiritual disciplines: prayer, Scripture study, fellowship, serving.  At their simplest, the spiritual disciplines are habits that support your spiritual life on your journey toward Christ-likeness. •Encourage sustainable habits, not legalistic checklists. •Train disciples to feed themselves spiritually and disciple others.   Illustrations •Athlete training for a race (1 Corinthians 9:24-27). •Garden analogy: We water and tend, but God gives the increase (1 Corinthians 3:6). •Example of early church practices (Acts 2:42).   **(00:00) END PART 1** **(27:00 – 5:00) BEGIN PART 2*   ### •4. Growth is a Shared Journey Key idea: Progressive, Seasonal, Participatory Growth is God’s Plan   #### • Progressive  – Growth is ongoing; we are being transformed into Christ’s image step by step. • “But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror th
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2 months ago
56 minutes 11 seconds

Run With Horses
Following Jesus is a Journey, Part 1
Rwh16aug Ep.377 – Run With Horses Podcast –  Following Jesus is a Journey, Part 1Podcast: rwh.podbean.comWebsite: www.runwithhorses.netYoutube:  https://youtube.com/@rwhpodcastFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/RWHpodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/rwh_podcastTwitter:  https://twitter.com/RWH_podcastAuthor pages with links to all books on Amazon.https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BCSDDVLB – James Norman Smithhttps://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BMGW51FW – Susan Jane Smith **(24:00)**Pastor’s wives are often a forgotten link in a healthy church. What can you do to support your pastor’s wife in her role? That’s the topic of today’s show. Welcome to Run With Horses! My name is Norman and my goal is to help you thrive as a follower of Jesus. The spiritual life is simple in many ways, but potentially the most difficult part of your life. God invites you to grow, to live intentionally and to join in His mission. It’s very cool that we can do that together!Thank you for joining me today! “If you’re new here, you can check out past episodes at runwithhorses.net. As always, I appreciate your feedback, questions, and reviews!” **(23:00 – 0:00)* *  PART 1 Following Jesus is a Journey ⸻ Pilgrimage, marathon, wilderness journey, The Pilgrim’s Progress. • spiritual growth: Ongoing transformation into Christ’s likeness (Romans 8:29). • Growth is neither instantaneous nor stagnant; it is a progressive walk empowered by the Spirit. • Our Goal: Equip disciple makers to understand, model, and guide others on this journey. ⸻ *1 Spiritual Growth is Progressive, Not Instantaneous • Growth is lifelong; sanctification happens progressively as believers are conformed to Christ. • Conversion is the starting line, not the finish line. • Philippians 1:6 –“Being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ.” • 2 Corinthians 3:18 –“But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as by the Spirit of the Lord.” • Colossians 2:6-7 –“As you therefore have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him, rooted and built up in Him and established in the faith, as you have been taught, abounding in it with thanksgiving.” Key • God initiates growth, but we must remain rooted and allow Him to complete the work. Applications for Disciple Makers • Help new believers understand growth takes time—avoid unrealistic expectations. • Celebrate progress, not perfection. • Encourage consistent abiding rather than instant change. * Be obedient in the little things each day, it adds up. Illustrations • Seed to tree imagery (Mark 4:28). • Personal testimony of gradual transformation. * Bike Ride across Iowa _ RAGBRAI⸻ *2: Expect Seasons of Slow Growth and Struggle • Growth is not linear; dry seasons and struggles are part of God’s process. • Waiting and hardship often deepen roots unseen. • Ecclesiastes 3:1 –“To everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven.” • Galatians 6:9 –“And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.”
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2 months ago
55 minutes 53 seconds

Run With Horses
Staying on Target, Part 2
Rwh09aug Ep.376 – Run With Horses Podcast –  Staying on target Podcast: rwh.podbean.com Website: www.runwithhorses.net Youtube:  https://youtube.com/@rwhpodcast Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/RWHpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rwh_podcast Twitter:  https://twitter.com/RWH_podcast Author pages with links to all books on Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BCSDDVLB – James Norman Smith https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BMGW51FW – Susan Jane Smith   .5 Do Spiritual Mapping (Know the Needs)   Where is God calling us to focus? •Acts 16:6-10 – Paul’s vision to go to Macedonia. •Matthew 9:36-38 – Jesus saw the crowds, had compassion, and called for workers. •Goals: •Study community needs (demographics, unreached groups, underserved population). •Pray for discernment: Where is the Spirit leading? •Identify new areas or groups (subcultures) needing gospel engagement.   ⸻   .6 Remember Your Kingdom Job – Disciple Making   What is the primary calling of every church member? •Matthew 4:19 – “Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.” •2 Corinthians 5:18-20 – Ministry of reconciliation; ambassadors for Christ. •Goals: •Remind constantly: Disciple-making is not optional. •Fight mission drift (avoid letting programs replace mission). •Help every believer see themselves as sent where they live, work, play. Our capacity may be different but our purpose is the same. To see Jesus glorified everywhere by everyone.   ⸻   .7 Develop and Maintain a Feedback System   How do we track and celebrate disciple-making progress? •Acts 14:27 – Paul and Barnabas reported what God had done. •Philippians 1:3-5 – Partnership in the gospel brings joy. Paul remembered, prayed and was full of joy because of others who partnered with him on the mission. •Goals: •Share regular reports/testimonies in services or meetings. •Encourage peer accountability (who are you discipling, who disciples you?). •Offer resources and coaching for active disciple-makers. Invite people to join the mission regularly.   ⸻   .8 Keep the Systems Simple (Reproducible)   How do we ensure multiplication is possible? •2 Timothy 2:2 – Train faithful people who will train others. •Matthew 10:5-10 – Jesus sent disciples simply, focusing on relationships. •Goals: •Keep training clear and reproducible (simple Bible studies, gospel tools). •Start with baby steps (one habit at a time, one disciple at a time). •Design everything for multiplication, not just addition.   ⸻    A Call to Action •Revisit Matthew 28:18-20 – Christ’s authority, command, and promise. •Challenge: What is your next step in personal disciple-making? •Corporate call: What is our next step as a church?
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2 months ago
56 minutes

Run With Horses
Staying on Target
 Ep.375 – Run With Horses Podcast –  Staying on targetPodcast: rwh.podbean.comWebsite: www.runwithhorses.netYoutube:  https://youtube.com/@rwhpodcastFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/RWHpodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/rwh_podcastTwitter:  https://twitter.com/RWH_podcastAuthor pages with links to all books on Amazon.https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BCSDDVLB – James Norman Smithhttps://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BMGW51FW – Susan Jane Smith **(24:00)**We are still talking about keeping our eyes on the target that Jesus has set before us. To be ambassadors for Christ on the mission of reconciliation, making disciples of the nations. Sound like a big job? Thankfully we are in this together and the Holy Spirit is doing His work in and through us. Welcome to Run With Horses! My name is Norman and my goal is to help you thrive as a follower of Jesus. The spiritual life is simple in many ways, but potentially the most difficult part of your life. God invites you to grow, to live intentionally and to join in His mission. It’s very cool that we can do that together!Thank you for joining me today! “If you’re new here, you can check out past episodes at runwithhorses.net. As always, I appreciate your feedback, questions, and reviews!” **(23:00 – 0:00)* *  PART 1 The Biblical Mandate • Matthew 28:18-20 – Jesus commands us to make disciples of all nations. • Key Question: Why does the church exist? • Not just for programs, services, or buildings—It exist as the body of Jesus to Cary out his mission of reconciliation in the world, practically, for disciple-making. • Every believer is called to participate (not just pastors). ⸻ .1 Clarify the Win for the Team Question: What does success look like for our church? • Colossians 1:28-29 – “Present everyone mature in Christ.” • Ephesians 4:11-13 – Equip saints until maturity and unity in faith. • Goals: • Define “disciple” (follower of Jesus growing in obedience, reproducing). Everyone needs to know the goal of Christ-likeness and have some idea of the path that leads there. • Create a shared vision and language (everyone knows what the goal is). It is a team effort, we need each other and simple, clear communication is important. • Success = transformed lives, not just attendance numbers. ⸻ .2 Give Them Tools for the Win How do we equip every believer to evangelize and disciple? • 2 Timothy 3:16-17 – Scripture equips believers for every good work. • Ephesians 4:12 – Leaders equip saints for ministry. • Acts 1:8 – Empowered by the Spirit to witness. • Goals: • Provide simple gospel tools (testimony, “3 Circles,” Romans Road, DBS). • Train in basic disciple habits (prayer, Bible, fellowship, serving). • Help members discover spiritual gifts (Romans 12; 1 Corinthians 12). ⸻ .3 Radical Clarity About Mission How do we keep the vision in front of us? • Habakkuk 2:2 – “Write the vision; make it plain.” • John 20:21 – “As the Father has sent me, I send you.” • Matthew 5:13-16 – Salt and light in the world. • Goals: • Constantly repeat the mission (sermons, meetings, ministries). • Celebrate wins (testimonies, baptisms, gospel impact stories). • Evaluate ministries: Does this move us toward Christ-likeness and help us make disciples? ⸻ .4 Create Systems that Self-Correct and stay on task How do we design processes that keep us on mission? • Acts 6:1-7 – Church creates structure to meet needs and continue growth. • 1 Corinthians 14:40 – “Do all things decently and in order.” • Goals: • Build reproducible models (small groups, one-on-one mentorship). • Review regularly and adjust to stay on mission. • Systems should serve people, not the other way around.
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3 months ago
56 minutes 41 seconds

Run With Horses
What kind of disciple are we making?
rwh26july -  Ep.374 – Run With Horses Podcast –  What kind of disciples are we making? Podcast: rwh.podbean.com Website: www.runwithhorses.net Youtube:  https://youtube.com/@rwhpodcast Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/RWHpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rwh_podcast Twitter:  https://twitter.com/RWH_podcast Author pages with links to all books on Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BCSDDVLB – James Norman Smith https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BMGW51FW – Susan Jane Smith   **(24:00)** If the disciple you make doesn’t make disciples, have you fully made a disciple?  True disciple making is inherently a process of multiplication and That is the topic of our show today.   Welcome to Run With Horses! My name is Norman and my goal is to help you thrive as a follower of Jesus. The spiritual life is simple in many ways, but potentially the most difficult part of your life. God invites you to grow, to live intentionally and to join in His mission. It’s very cool that we can do that together! Thank you for joining me today! “If you’re new here, you can check out past episodes at runwithhorses.net. As always, I appreciate your feedback, questions, and reviews!”   **(23:00 – 0:00)* *  PART 1   **(00:00) END PART 1** **(27:00 – 5:00) BEGIN PART 2*   Part 1: What Are We Making?   Big Idea: Churches often aim for “converts” or “Christians” in name, but not reproducing disciple-makers.   1. I’m still processing the lessons from the GARBC Conference and today I a focusing on some of the comments by Tim Walker - Pastor of Restored Church in WIlkes-Barre, PA.   •Raise the contrast: “Are we making churchgoers or Christ-followers?”   If the disciple you make doesn’t make a disciple, have you fully made a disciple? The question is really, what are you making?  Often I think the answer is, we are making Christians, and that means something different than genuine followers of Jesus. And definitively something less than disciple makers.   2. Clarifying Definitions •Disciple: Apprentice of Jesus. •Not just knowledge, but obedience and transformation. •Not just attending, but multiplying. •Disciple-maker: Someone who walks alongside others to help them become more like Jesus — and teaches them to do the same.   3. Judo Illustration •Great visual! Consider structuring like this: 1.Knowledge – Learning the basics of Jesus’ teaching. 2.Training – Spiritual disciplines, habits, community. 3.Practice – Real-life obedience, failure, growth. 4.Engagement – Helping others through the same path.   Jesus’ model — He taught, demonstrated, let disciples try, corrected them, then sent them.   ⸻   Part 2: Biblical Model – 2 Timothy 2:1–7   2 Timothy 2:1-7 - You therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. 2 And the things that you have heard from me among many witnesses, commit these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also. 3 You therefore must endure hardship as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. 4 No one engaged in warfare entangles himself with the affairs of this life, that he may please him who enlisted him as a soldier. 5 And also if anyone competes in athletics, he is not crowned unless he competes according to the rules. 6 The hardworking farmer must be first to partake of the crops. 7 Consider what I say, and may the Lord give you understanding in all things.   1. Paul’s Command to Timothy •Four Generations of discipleship: Paul → Timothy → Faithful men → Others •Challenge: Is that chain continuing through us?   2. The Three Illustrations   Structure each one with: •Role •What faithfulness looks like •How it connects to discipleship   ⸻   A. The Soldier •Characteristics: Endurance, single focus, sacrifice •Danger of distraction: “Entangled in civilian affairs” •Application: Have we become entangled with church programming, comfort, or cultural expectations?   B. The Athlete •Characteristics: Obedience to the rules, discipline, training •Application: Are we training people to obey ev
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3 months ago
56 minutes 7 seconds

Run With Horses
Are we winning?
rwh19july -  Ep.373 – Run With Horses Podcast –  Are we winning?Podcast: rwh.podbean.comWebsite: www.runwithhorses.netYoutube:  https://youtube.com/@rwhpodcastFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/RWHpodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/rwh_podcastTwitter:  https://twitter.com/RWH_podcastAuthor pages with links to all books on Amazon.https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BCSDDVLB – James Norman Smithhttps://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BMGW51FW – Susan Jane Smith **(24:00)** Are we winning? As a church? Personally? How are we doing and how do we know how we’re doing?  If we chase the wrong goal and reach it, what have we accomplished? This is the topic of today’s show! Welcome to Run With Horses! My name is Norman and my goal is to help you thrive as a follower of Jesus. The spiritual life is simple in many ways, but potentially the most difficult part of your life. God invites you to grow, to live intentionally and to join in His mission. It’s very cool that we can do that together!Thank you for joining me today! “If you’re new here, you can check out past episodes at runwithhorses.net. As always, I appreciate your feedback, questions, and reviews!” **(23:00 – 0:00)* *  PART 1Josh Jones - Bridgewater Church. GARBC Conference 2025Paul gave up his rights, privileges and preferences for the sake of the gospel. He had a clear goal and he sacrificed to reach it. 1 Cor. 9:19 - For though I am free from all men, I have made myself a servant to all, that I might win the more; 20 and to the Jews I became as a Jew, that I might win Jews; to those who are under the law, as under the law, that I might win those who are under the law; 21 to those who are without law, as without law (not being without law toward God, but under law toward Christ), that I might win those who are without law; 22 to the weak I became as weak, that I might win the weak. I have become all things to all men, that I might by all means save some. 23 Now this I do for the gospel’s sake, that I may be partaker of it with you. V. 24 Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may obtain it. 25 And everyone who competes for the prize is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a perishable crown, but we for an imperishable crown. 26 Therefore I run thus: not with uncertainty. Thus I fight: not as one who beats the air. 27 But I discipline my body and bring it into subjection, lest, when I have preached to others, I myself should become disqualified. Jesus alone has the right to define the win in the Christian life and for His church.The point is to do church well. We have created so many ministries that are just for us, within the church. It is movement without impact for the kingdom.We pay close attention to things that are not mission critical, and sometimes miss the mission altogether.How clear are we about our goal as individuals and as a local church? Does it seem like we often just do church and hope people come? How do we think about activity verses effectiveness? Do we consider effectiveness when planning what and how the church operates? Our goal is not to gather a crowd but to grow the kingdom. How does that affect our decisions and activity as a church family?Equipping people for ministry outside the church walls. Encouraging them to engage in their relational networks. In the NT church happened as a result of consistent engagement with communities resulting in the gospel being proclaimed and people trusting in Jesus. These people gathered to learn more about their Savior and His mission, to fellowship, to live life in a community with Jesus at the center and to pray with and for each other as they cared for each others needs. This special relationship kept them motivated and encouraged to reach out to others who didn’t yet know Jesus. How is our church life today different? Should it be? I believe we have a clear goal, given to us by Jesus. To be like HIm, followin
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3 months ago
56 minutes 24 seconds

Run With Horses
Developing A Ministry Culture in the Church
rwh12july Ep.372 – Run With Horses Podcast Podcast: rwh.podbean.comWebsite: www.runwithhorses.netYoutube:  https://youtube.com/@rwhpodcastFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/RWHpodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/rwh_podcastTwitter:  https://twitter.com/RWH_podcastAuthor pages with links to all books on Amazon.https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BCSDDVLB – James Norman Smithhttps://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BMGW51FW – Susan Jane Smith
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3 months ago
56 minutes 11 seconds

Run With Horses
GARBC conference lessons part 2
rwh05july Ep.371 – Run With Horses Podcast –  GARBC Conference Lessons Part 2Podcast: rwh.podbean.comWebsite: www.runwithhorses.netYoutube:  https://youtube.com/@rwhpodcastFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/RWHpodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/rwh_podcastTwitter:  https://twitter.com/RWH_podcastAuthor pages with links to all books on Amazon.https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BCSDDVLB – James Norman Smithhttps://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BMGW51FW – Susan Jane Smith
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4 months ago
56 minutes 15 seconds

Run With Horses
GARBC Conference Lessons
 Ep.370 – Run With Horses Podcast –  GARBC Conference LessonsPodcast: rwh.podbean.comWebsite: www.runwithhorses.netYoutube:  https://youtube.com/@rwhpodcastFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/RWHpodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/rwh_podcastTwitter:  https://twitter.com/RWH_podcastAuthor pages with links to all books on Amazon.https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BCSDDVLB – James Norman Smithhttps://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BMGW51FW – Susan Jane Smith
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4 months ago
56 minutes 6 seconds

Run With Horses
Our Words Matter
Ep.369 – Run With Horses Podcast –  Our Words MatterPodcast: rwh.podbean.comWebsite: www.runwithhorses.netYoutube:  https://youtube.com/@rwhpodcastFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/RWHpodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/rwh_podcastTwitter:  https://twitter.com/RWH_podcastAuthor pages with links to all books on Amazon.https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BCSDDVLB – James Norman Smithhttps://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BMGW51FW – Susan Jane Smith 1. Biblical Foundations for Communication 2. Communication as Discipleship  3. Listening as a Spiritual Discipline 4. Bridging the Gap: Communicating Across Worldviews 5. Conflict, Correction, and Encouragement  6. Digital Communication 7. One-on-One vs. Group Communication 8. Teaching vs. Talking 2. 1. Be Quick to Listen, Slow to Speak  2. Speak the Truth in Love  3. Use Open-Ended, Heart-Opening Questions  4. Watch Your Nonverbal Communication  5. Use Technology Intentionally Doctrine Today - Biblical Humility
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4 months ago
56 minutes 12 seconds

Run With Horses
The Run With Horses podcast strives to help disciples of Jesus reach their full potential. Join us for practical advice to help overcome spiritual roadblocks and find the motivation you need to persist through life’s trials. Let’s answer God’s call to be disciple makers together!