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In this episode of Walking Close, Living Changed, Brian continues his series on "on-the-spot faith" by exploring the story of the leper who approached Jesus and said, "If you are willing, you can make me clean." Rather than questioning Jesus' ability to heal, the man questioned whether Jesus was willing to heal him. Through Jesus' immediate response—"I am willing. Be clean."—Brian explores the difference between humility and believing that we are somehow excluded from God's goodness. Jesus crosses cultural, religious, and social boundaries to touch and heal a man others considered unclean, revealing a God who is not reluctant to come near. The episode encourages listeners to stop focusing on their own unworthiness and instead place their faith in God's willingness to touch, heal, bless, save, and meet them in their need.   Key Topics Discussed Faith in God's willingness The healing of the man with leprosy Jesus' compassion toward people considered unclean "If You are willing, You can make me clean" Believing God can versus believing God wants to God's willingness to come near Religious and cultural boundaries Jesus crossed Compassion versus indignation in the Gospel manuscripts Humility versus self-loathing Feeling unworthy of God's goodness   Relevant Scriptures Mark 1:35–45 — Jesus prays early in the morning, tells His disciples that He intends to preach in nearby villages, and later encounters a man with leprosy who asks whether Jesus is willing to make him clean. Jesus touches and heals him, then instructs him not to spread the news. Matthew 8:1–4 — Matthew's account of Jesus cleansing a man with leprosy after the man expresses faith that Jesus can make him clean if He is willing. Luke 5:12–16 — Luke records Jesus reaching out and touching a man covered with leprosy, declaring His willingness to make him clean. Luke 5:1–11 — After the miraculous catch of fish, Peter recognizes his own sinfulness and tells Jesus to depart from him. Jesus instead calls Peter to follow Him and become a fisher of people. Matthew 6:9–10 — Jesus teaches His followers to pray for God's will to be done on earth as it is in heaven. John 10:10 — Jesus contrasts destruction with His purpose of bringing life in its fullness. 2 Peter 3:9 — Scripture describes God as patient, not wanting people to perish but desiring them to come to repentance.

In this episode of Walking Close, Living Changed, Brian explores the meaning of blind faith through several Gospel accounts of Jesus healing people who could not see. He contrasts blind faith with what he calls "blind doubt"—a refusal to believe even when evidence, miracles, or personal testimony are presented. Through the stories of Bartimaeus, the blind man at Bethsaida, and the man born blind in John 9, Brian identifies three characteristics of blind faith: it recognizes who Jesus is, remains honest about what has or has not happened, and stands firmly in its own testimony. The episode encourages listeners not to be ashamed of believing without seeing and to hold onto what they know God has done in their lives. Key Topics Discussed Blind faith versus blind doubt Walking by faith, not by sight Believing without physically seeing Jesus' healing of the blind Recognizing Jesus for who He is Persisting when others try to silence your faith Honest faith and incomplete healing Praying more than once for the same need Knowing and standing by your testimony Remaining unashamed of blind faith   Relevant Scriptures 2 Corinthians 5:7 — Followers of Christ are called to walk by faith rather than depend only on what they can see. Hebrews 11:1 — Faith gives confidence in what is hoped for and conviction about what remains unseen. John 20:24–29 — Jesus meets Thomas in his doubt and calls those who believe without seeing blessed. Mark 16:9–14 — Jesus rebukes the disciples for refusing to believe the testimony of those who had seen Him alive. 1 Corinthians 15:3–8 — Paul records the eyewitnesses of the risen Jesus, including more than five hundred people at one time. Mark 10:46–52 — Bartimaeus recognizes Jesus as the Son of David, continues crying out despite the crowd, and receives his sight. Matthew 9:27–31 — Two blind men follow Jesus, call Him the Son of David, and receive their sight. Matthew 20:29–34 — Two blind men refuse to be silenced and continue asking Jesus for mercy until He heals them. Mark 8:22–26 — Jesus heals the blind man at Bethsaida in two stages while the man honestly reports what he can and cannot yet see. John 9:1–41 — Jesus heals a man who was blind from birth, and the man later stands firmly by his testimony despite opposition.

In this episode of Walking Close, Living Changed, Brian explores the story of the paralyzed man whose friends carried him to Jesus in Luke 5. Unable to reach Him through the crowded house, they climbed onto the roof and lowered their friend down in front of Jesus. Brian focuses on the phrase, "When Jesus saw their faith," highlighting how the miracle was connected not only to one person's belief, but to the shared faith of the group. He reflects on the importance of friendship, spiritual community, and having people who can pray, believe, and stand with you through difficult seasons. The episode encourages listeners to remember that faith is not always meant to be carried alone.   Key Topics Discussed Collective faith The healing of the paralyzed man "When Jesus saw their faith" The importance of friendship Jesus' authority to forgive sins Faith in the presence of naysayers Strength in spiritual community Agreeing together in prayer Unity among believers Walking through faith with others   Relevant Scriptures Luke 5:17–26 — Jesus heals the paralyzed man after his friends lower him through the roof. Mark 2:1–12 — Mark's account of the paralyzed man being carried to Jesus by his friends. Matthew 18:19–20 — Jesus teaches about agreement in prayer and two or three gathering in His name. Acts 2:1 — The believers gather together in unity before the coming of the Holy Spirit. Nehemiah 4 — God's people work together to rebuild Jerusalem's walls despite opposition. Nehemiah 8:10 — "The joy of the Lord is your strength." Mark 6:1–6 — Jesus encounters unbelief in His hometown and performs only a few miracles there.

In this episode of Walking Close, Living Changed, Brian continues his series on people who received immediate miracles from Jesus by examining the father who cried, "I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief." Through the story in Mark 9, Brian shows that Jesus can respond even when faith feels incomplete, conflicted, or "kinda sure." He challenges listeners to stop arguing, move beyond blame, confront the roots of long-standing problems, forgive where needed, and bring whatever faith they have directly to Jesus. The episode offers hope that struggling faith can still reach Christ—and that Jesus can bring lasting freedom, lift people to their feet, and help them begin a new walk.   Key Topics Discussed The father who believed and doubted at the same time Jesus coming down from the Mount of Transfiguration Immediate miracles in Scripture The disciples' inability to cast out the spirit Why arguments do not produce miracles Bringing long-standing problems to Jesus When things get worse before they get better Taking responsibility instead of shifting blame Discovering the roots of destructive patterns Forgiveness as a path toward freedom   Relevant Scriptures Mark 9:14–29 — Jesus delivers a boy after his father asks for help with his unbelief. Matthew 17:14–21 — Matthew's parallel account, including Jesus' teaching about mustard-seed faith. Luke 9:37–43 — Luke's account of Jesus healing the demon-possessed boy. 2 Timothy 2:23–26 — Paul warns Timothy against foolish arguments and calls for gentle instruction. Matthew 12:43–45 — Jesus teaches about an unclean spirit leaving and attempting to return. Mark 2:18–20 — Jesus explains why His disciples were not fasting while He was physically with them. Acts 13:2–3 — The early church worships, fasts, prays, and follows the Holy Spirit's direction. Acts 14:23 — Paul and Barnabas appoint elders with prayer and fasting. 2 Corinthians 5:17 — Anyone in Christ is a new creation.

In Episode 25 of Walking Close, Living Changed, Brian continues his series on people who received immediate miracles from Jesus by exploring the remarkable faith of the Canaanite woman in Matthew 15. Although she faced silence, rejection, cultural prejudice, and what appeared to be unanswered prayer, she refused to walk away. Brian explains why Jesus ultimately praised her faith—not because she had perfect circumstances, but because she believed God's mercy was greater than every obstacle standing in her way. The episode encourages listeners to reject the lie that God plays favorites and to approach Him with persistent, confident faith.   Key Topics Discussed The faith of the Canaanite woman Immediate miracles in Scripture Matthew 15:21–28 Persistent faith Unanswered and delayed prayer God's impartiality Jesus and the Canaanite woman Cultural prejudice in the Gospels God's mercy for all people Faith despite silence Trusting God's character Pressing through discouragement Jesus welcomes everyone The persistence of a mother's faith   Relevant Scriptures Matthew 15:21–28 — Jesus and the Canaanite woman Mark 7:24–30 — The Syrophoenician woman's account Romans 2:11 — God shows no favoritism. Acts 10:34–35 — God accepts people from every nation. Romans 8:28 — God works all things together for good. Isaiah 1:18 — "Come now, let us reason together." James 1:2–4 — Perseverance through trials.

In this episode of Walking Close, Living Changed, Brian continues his series on people who experienced immediate miracles through Jesus by examining the faith of the Roman centurion in Matthew 8 and Luke 7. Rather than focusing on a formula for receiving miracles, Brian explores the centurion's extraordinary understanding of authority and explains why Jesus declared that He had never seen such great faith in all of Israel. Listeners are encouraged to take responsibility for their faith, trust Christ's authority, and believe that when Jesus speaks, His word is enough. Key Topics Discussed The faith of the Roman centurion Immediate miracles in Scripture Matthew 8 and Luke 7 Faith that amazed Jesus Jesus' authority over sickness Speaking the Word Biblical authority Submission and obedience Responsibility of personal faith Mustard seed faith Asking God without wavering James on faith Jesus as the Word Trusting God's authority Receiving miracles through faith   Relevant Scriptures Matthew 8:5–13 — Jesus heals the centurion's servant. Luke 7:1–10 — Luke's account of the centurion's faith. Romans 12:3 — God gives each believer a measure of faith. Matthew 17:20 — Faith as small as a mustard seed. James 1:5–8 — Asking in faith without doubting. John 1:1–14 — Jesus as the Word made flesh. Colossians 1:15–20 — Christ's supreme authority over creation.

In Episode 23 of Walking Close, Living Changed, Brian begins a new series exploring great faith moments in the New Testament. Using the story of Jairus from Mark 5, he examines the journey between believing God for a miracle and actually seeing that miracle fulfilled. Rather than focusing only on the miracle itself, Brian identifies five distinct stages Jairus experienced—from making the first move toward Jesus, through delay and disappointment, to ultimately witnessing God's power. The episode encourages listeners to recognize that while every faith journey is unique, God often uses seasons of waiting, worsening circumstances, and surrender to prepare us for His perfect work.   Key Topics Discussed Jairus' walk from faith to fulfillment Faith that takes the first step The five stages between faith and miracle Waiting while others receive their miracle Delays are not denial Circumstances getting worse before breakthrough Trusting God during interruptions Allowing God to sort relationships and circumstances God's purpose after the miracle Faith demonstrated through action Jesus raising Jairus' daughter God's unique patterns of answering prayer Relationship over miracles Trusting God's timing   Relevant Scriptures Mark 5:22–43 — Jairus asks Jesus to heal his daughter, and Jesus raises her from the dead. James 4:8 — "Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you." Hebrews 11 — The faith of those who trusted God throughout history. Acts 14 — Paul recognizes the lame man's faith to be healed. Romans 12:15 — "Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn." James 5 — The perseverance and faith of Job. Matthew 13:24–30 — The parable of the wheat and the tares.

In this episode of Walking Close, Living Changed, Brian continues building on last week's message about trusting God for our daily bread by exploring why we spend so much time worrying about what we don't have. Through the story of Peter and John healing the lame man at the temple gate, Brian encourages listeners to stop focusing on what is missing and instead trust that God knows what they truly need. He explains that our greatest limitations often become the very places where God performs His greatest miracles. Key Topics Discussed Worrying about what we don't have Trusting God's daily provision Contentment and gratitude Imposter syndrome Focusing on God-given strengths Peter and John healing the lame man Acts 3 and the Beautiful Gate God's provision beyond our requests Miracles through seasons of lack The purpose of unanswered prayers The story of the Prodigal Son God's timing and His greater plan Faith over fear Trusting God's wisdom   Relevant Scriptures Matthew 6:11 — "Give us this day our daily bread." Acts 3:1–10 — Peter and John heal the lame beggar at the Beautiful Gate. Luke 15:11–32 — The Parable of the Prodigal Son. Matthew 6:25–34 — Do not worry about tomorrow. Romans 8:28 — God works all things together for good. Philippians 4:19 — God supplies every need according to His riches. 2 Corinthians 12:9 — God's strength is made perfect in weakness.

In this episode of Walking Close, Living Changed, Brian explores one of the simplest yet most powerful phrases in the Lord's Prayer: "Give us this day our daily bread." He explains how Jesus emphasized daily dependence on God, daily trust, and daily provision. Drawing from the teachings of Jesus, the story of manna in the wilderness, Daniel's daily devotion, and Hebrews 4, Brian encourages listeners to stop carrying yesterday's regrets and tomorrow's worries and instead learn to trust God one day at a time. Key Topics Discussed The Lord's Prayer and daily bread Daily dependence on God Matthew 6 and overcoming worry Living one day at a time Day-tight compartments The story of manna in the wilderness God's provision and trust Nighttime anxiety and surrender Daniel's daily prayer life Daily devotion and spiritual health Hebrews 4 and the importance of "today" Trusting God for present needs God's faithfulness in daily living   Relevant Scriptures Matthew 6:11 — "Give us this day our daily bread." Matthew 6:33 — Seek first God's kingdom and righteousness. Matthew 6:34 — Do not worry about tomorrow. Exodus 16 — God provides manna for Israel in the wilderness. Genesis 1 — Evening and morning establish the pattern of a day. Daniel 6 — Daniel continues praying despite opposition. Daniel 11–12 — Reference to the removal of daily sacrifices. Hebrews 4:7 — "Today, if you hear His voice, do not harden your hearts." Luke 22:39–46 — Jesus prays in the Garden of Gethsemane.

In this episode of Walking Close, Living Changed, Brian explores Jesus' teaching that true greatness in God's kingdom comes through becoming like little children. Using Matthew 18, he explains that adults often lose qualities that children naturally possess: wonder, humility, and openness to growth. Brian identifies three common obstacles that prevent believers from experiencing the fullness of God's kingdom mindset and offers three simple prayers that can help restore childlike faith and dependence on God.   Key Topics Discussed Matthew 18 and becoming like little children The true meaning of greatness in God's kingdom Childlike faith versus childish behavior Wonder and awe as foundations for spiritual growth Humility and teachability The dangers of pride and self-sufficiency Spiritual transformation and new identity Growth versus becoming stuck in old patterns The kingdom of heaven as a present reality Creativity, curiosity, and childlike thinking God's desire to continually shape His people   Relevant Scriptures Matthew 18:1–5 — Jesus teaches that unless we change and become like little children, we cannot enter the kingdom of heaven. Acts 2:43 — A deep sense of awe came over all the believers as they witnessed God at work among them. 2 Chronicles 16:9 — God searches the earth for hearts that are fully devoted to Him so He can strengthen and support them. 1 Samuel 15:17 — Saul was chosen when he was humble in his own eyes, but later lost that humility. 2 Corinthians 5:17 — Anyone who is in Christ is a new creation; the old has gone and the new has come.

In this episode of Walking Close, Living Changed, Brian talks about the kinds of cries that get God's attention as a loving Father. Using the picture of a parent recognizing the different cries of a child, Brian explains that God knows the difference between casual complaints, spiritual hunger, repentance, and deep compassion for others. Through scriptures from Psalms, Matthew, Peter, Job, and the words of Jesus on the cross, Brian shows that God hears His children and responds to cries that come from hunger for Him, a heart ready to change, and compassion for broken people. This episode encourages listeners to cry out to God honestly, trust His Father's heart, and allow Him to respond with nourishment, correction, and transformation.   Key Topics Discussed God as a loving Father who hears His children The difference between casual cries and desperate cries Why God responds to brokenhearted prayers The cry of spiritual hunger Hungering and thirsting for righteousness Losing and recovering spiritual appetite The cry of repentance Repentance as a desire to be changed by God The power of a one-degree shift The cry of compassion for others   Relevant Scriptures Psalm 34:17–19 — God hears the cries of the righteous, stays close to the brokenhearted, and saves those who are crushed in spirit. Psalm 18:6 — David cries out to the Lord in distress, and God hears his voice. 1 Peter 3:12 — The Lord watches over the righteous and keeps His ears open to their prayers. Matthew 5:6 — Jesus promises that those who hunger and thirst for righteousness will be filled. 1 Peter 2:2–3 — Believers are called to crave pure spiritual nourishment like newborn babies. Psalm 42:1–2 — The psalmist describes a deep thirst and longing for the living God. Matthew 7:9–11 — Jesus teaches that the heavenly Father gives good gifts to those who ask Him. Psalm 51:17 — God does not reject a broken spirit and a contrite heart. Job 42:10 — God restores Job after he prays for his friends. Matthew 9:36–38 — Jesus is moved with compassion for the crowds and tells His disciples to pray for workers in the harvest. Luke 23:34 — Jesus prays for forgiveness for the people crucifying Him.

In this episode of Walking Close, Living Changed, Brian explores the story of Peter's vision in Acts 10 and how God used it to completely reshape Peter's understanding of salvation. Peter initially believed God's message was about food and religious law, but eventually realized God was revealing that the Gospel was meant for all people, not just the Jews. Brian uses this story to teach listeners that God may say unexpected things, challenge long-held beliefs, interrupt traditions, and speak in ways we do not immediately understand. The episode encourages believers to stay spiritually hungry, quiet, open, and willing to listen when God speaks.    Key Topics Discussed Acts 10 and Peter's rooftop vision Cornelius and the inclusion of the Gentiles God challenging religious tradition and assumptions Learning to obey God before fully understanding Spiritual humility and correction God speaking through visions, dreams, Scripture, and life experiences The importance of spiritual hunger and quietness God's desire for friendship and relationship with people Pondering God's direction instead of reacting too quickly God working through seasons and generational shifts The Gospel being for all people, not just one group Spiritual discernment and openness to growth   Relevant Scriptures Acts 10 — Peter's vision and Cornelius' salvation Acts 10:9–16 — Peter's rooftop vision of clean and unclean animals Acts 10:28 — "God has shown me that I should not call anyone impure or unclean." Acts 10:34–35 — God showing no favoritism among nations Matthew 5:6 — "Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness" John 10:27 — "My sheep hear my voice" Daniel 12 — Daniel receiving visions he did not fully understand Luke 2:19 — Mary pondering things in her heart Romans — Paul revealing New Covenant truths through Old Testament Scripture Proverbs 6:6 — "Go to the ant" and learning from creation Joel 2:28 / Acts 2:17 — Dreams, visions, and the outpouring of the Spirit

In this episode of Walking Close, Living Changed, Brian explores the idea of "divine interruptions" and how God can redirect, delay, or interrupt even the paths He originally called us to walk. Using stories from Exodus and Acts 16, Brian explains that interruptions are not always obstacles. Sometimes they are God's protection, preparation, or redirection. Other times they come through the needs of people around us or even spiritual opposition. The episode encourages listeners to trust God's bigger picture, remain sensitive to His direction, and believe that no interruption can stop God from completing His purpose in their lives.   Key Topics Discussed Divine interruptions and trusting God's redirection God's "macro view" versus humanity's limited understanding The Israelites turning back at the Red Sea Obedience that may look confusing to others Acts 16 as "the chapter of interruptions" The Holy Spirit redirecting Paul and Silas Lydia's conversion and interruptions through people's needs The feeding of the five thousand and frustrated disciples Spiritual discernment and recognizing demonic opposition God redeeming time and fulfilling His promises despite interruptions Learning to trust God even when plans change unexpectedly   Relevant Scriptures Exodus 13–14 — God leading Israel and telling them to turn back Acts 16 — Paul and Silas experiencing multiple interruptions Acts 16:6–10 — The Macedonian vision Acts 16:13–15 — Lydia's conversion Acts 16:16–40 — The slave girl, imprisonment, and jailer's salvation Mark 6:30–52 — Feeding of the five thousand and Jesus walking on water Romans 8:28 — God working all things together for good Philippians 1:6 — God finishing the work He started Proverbs 3:5–6 — Trusting God's direction Isaiah 55:8–9 — God's higher thoughts and ways Psalm 37:23 — The steps of the righteous being ordered by God

In this episode of Walking Close, Living Changed, Brian explores the story of Balaam and the talking donkey from Numbers 22 to teach a powerful lesson about interruptions, frustration, and spiritual awareness. He explains that the "donkeys" in our lives—unexpected problems, delays, people, or setbacks—may not actually be obstacles, but warnings, lessons, or even protection from something worse. The episode encourages listeners to stop reacting in anger to interruptions and instead ask what God may be trying to reveal through them.   Key Topics Discussed The story of Balaam and the talking donkey Interruptions as spiritual lessons or warnings How frustration can reveal heart issues like anger and pride Why "the donkey" may not actually be the problem Recognizing red flags and unusual disruptions in life Learning to pause and evaluate setbacks instead of reacting emotionally Paul's "thorn in the flesh" and the purpose of hardship How God may use interruptions to protect or redirect us The idea that some interruptions may become our "saving grace"   Relevant Scriptures Numbers 22:21–33 — Balaam and the talking donkey 2 Corinthians 12:7–10 — Paul's thorn in the flesh and God's grace in weakness Romans 8:28 — God works all things together for good Proverbs 3:5–6 — Trusting God's direction instead of our own understanding James 1:2–4 — Trials producing perseverance and maturity Psalm 119:71 — Learning through affliction and hardship Isaiah 55:8–9 — God's ways being higher than our ways Hebrews 12:11 — Discipline producing righteousness and peace Acts 9:1–6 — Paul's interruption on the road to Damascus Psalm 32:8 — God guiding and instructing us in the way we should go

In this episode of Walking Close, Living Changed, Brian Opbroek shares a powerful perspective: joy isn't just something God gives directly—it's something He delivers through everyday life. Titled "Joy—Take It However It Comes," Brian explains how joy shows up through relationships, accomplishments, simple moments, and even trials. Instead of waiting for joy to appear, he challenges listeners to recognize it in the places God is already providing it. He also addresses a common barrier—our tendency to resist joy through overthinking, guilt, or mindset. The truth is, joy is available—but we have to choose to receive it. Brian closes by reminding listeners that joy is more than a feeling—it's a pathway to experiencing God more fully in every part of life.   Key Topics Discussed Understanding "the joy of the Lord" in a practical way Joy as something received, not forced God's "supply chain" for delivering joy Finding joy in relationships and connection Celebrating accomplishments without guilt Enjoying everyday blessings as gifts from God Joy in the middle of trials and challenges The danger of resisting joy   Relevant Scriptures Nehemiah 8:10 The foundation of the episode—reminds us that the joy of the Lord is our strength. Philippians 1:3–4 Highlights how joy is often found through relationships and connection with others. 3 John 1:4 Shows the joy that comes from seeing others grow and walk in truth. Ecclesiastes 3:13 Reinforces that joy in our work and accomplishments is a gift from God. 1 Timothy 6:17 Reminds us that God provides everyday things for our enjoyment. Luke 6:22–23 Encourages finding joy even in persecution and difficult seasons. James 1:2 Calls us to consider it joy when facing trials, knowing growth comes through them.