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June 28, 2026 • 8 Minute Read
What's Your Next Step After Meeting Jesus?
OVERVIEW 👀 In week six of the Colossians series, Pastor Paul Durbin walks us through Colossians 3, where the Apostle Paul lays out what comes next after we've been raised with Christ. Using stories from hiking, camping, and a little dog named Perry, Paul unpacks four practical next steps every follower of Jesus can take: pursuing heaven's perspective, putting off old hindrances, putting on Christ's qualities, and practicing Christ-like relationships. This is a message about moving from the parking lot into the real beauty of life with Jesus—and discovering that how we treat others is really how we treat Him.step TIPS 📌 For the greatest impact, invite a few others to go through this study guide with you. You don't need to do every section and question—use what fits your group or season. Let the Spirit highlight where to slow down and engage. ICEBREAKER(S) 🧊 If your family went on vacation growing up, were you a "stay at a hotel" family or a "camp out of the car" family? Any stories? BIBLE PASSAGE(S) 📖 Colossians 3:1–4:1 (NIV) 1 Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. 2 Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. 3 For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. 4 When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory. 5 Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires and greed, which is idolatry. 6 Because of these, the wrath of God is coming. 7 You used to walk in these ways, in the life you once lived. 8 But now you must also rid yourselves of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips. 9 Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices 10 and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator. 11 Here there is no Gentile or Jew, circumcised or uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave or free, but Christ is all, and is in all. 12 Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. 13 Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. 14 And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity. 15 Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. 16 Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts. 17 And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. 18 Wives, submit yourselves to your husbands, as is fitting in the Lord. 19 Husbands, love your wives and do not be harsh with them. 20 Children, obey your parents in everything, for this pleases the Lord. 21 Fathers, do not embitter your children, or they will become discouraged. 22 Slaves, obey your earthly masters in everything; and do it, not only when their eye is on you and to curry their favor, but with sincerity of heart and reverence for the Lord. 23 Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, 24 since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving. 25 Anyone who does wrong will be repaid for their wrongs, and there is no favoritism. 1 Masters, provide your slaves with what is right and fair, because you know that you also have a Master in heaven. OBSERVATION 🔎 What does Paul say has already happened to us in verses 1–4, and what does he say is still to come? In verses 5–11, what specific things does Paul tell us to "put to death" and "rid ourselves of"? What words or themes show up more than once? According to verses 12–17, what are believers told to "clothe themselves" with, and what role does Christ play in holding it all together? APPLICATION 👋 Where are you currently parked at the "trailhead" of your faith—seeing the view but not actually stepping into it? Pastor Paul described people who visit national parks but never get out of their car. Sometimes we settle for a windshield view of Jesus instead of hiking deeper in. What does it actually look like for you this week to "set your mind on things above" in the middle of bills, stress, and a busy schedule? This isn't about escaping real life—it's about letting heaven's perspective shape how you handle it. What's your "Perry"—the thing you keep holding onto even though you know it's holding you back? For the woman in Tijuana, it was a tiny dog that kept her in an unsafe situation. For us, it might be a habit, a relationship, an old wound, or an attitude. Paul says in Christ there is no Jew or Gentile, slave or free. What identity are you tempted to put above your identity as a follower of Jesus? Our culture loves labels. Paul reminds us that being "in Christ" is the identity that reshapes all the others. Which one of these qualities do you most need to "put on" right now—compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, or patience? We don't drift into Christlikeness. We have to choose to clothe ourselves with it. Who is one person you've struggled to forgive, and what would it look like to forgive them "as the Lord forgave you"? Forgiveness isn't pretending it didn't hurt; it's releasing the debt the way Jesus released yours. If you really believed that how you treat others is how you treat Jesus, what's one relationship that would change this week? Spouse, kid, coworker, barista, the driver who cut you off—Jesus says it all counts as how we treat Him. LIVE ON BELAY 🏔️ Pick one quality from verse 12 (compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, patience) and intentionally practice it every day this week with the people you usually rush past. Write down your "Perry"—the thing holding you back—and share it with one trusted Belay'er who can pray with you and check in on you. Treat one service worker this week (barista, server, cashier, delivery driver) as if you were serving Jesus Himself. Make eye contact, learn a name, leave a generous tip, speak a blessing. Reach out to someone you've had a grievance with and take a step toward forgiveness—a conversation, a text, or simply releasing it before the Lord. Invite someone who feels stuck at the "trailhead" of faith to join you at Belay or for a meal, and share one next step Jesus is leading you to take. PRAYER 🙏 Ask God to lift your eyes to heaven's perspective in the middle of everyday stress and noise. Ask the Spirit to show you the "Perry" you're still holding onto, and for the courage to let it go. Ask Jesus to clothe you with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience this week. Pray for one specific relationship where you need to treat the other person as if you were treating Jesus. Thank God that you've been raised with Christ and that your real life is hidden with Him. WORSHIP 🙌 OUTLINE 📝 Main Idea: Since you've been raised with Christ, take the next steps into the new life He's prepared for you. 1) Pursue Heaven's Perspective Set your heart and mind on things above Stop viewing life from the windshield—get out and hike in You've died; your real life is hidden with Christ 2) Put Off Old Hindrances Put to death sexual immorality, impurity, lust, greed, anger, slander, lying Drop your "Perry"—the thing you keep holding that holds you back Your old identities don't define you anymore; Christ is all and in all 3) Put On Christ's Qualities Clothe yourself with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, patience Bear with each other and forgive as the Lord forgave you Let the peace of Christ rule and the word of Christ dwell richly 4) Practice Christ-like Relationships Wives, husbands, children, parents, workers, leaders—all changed by Jesus It is the Lord Christ you are serving How you treat others is how you treat Him Takeaway: You've been raised with Christ—now take the next step into the life He's already prepared for you.
June 23, 2026 • 1 Minute Read
The Ship Is Already Full
Paul used a word in Colossians that I love: pleroma. It described a cargo ship loaded so full you couldn't squeeze one more crate on board without sinking it. That's the picture he uses for what we have in Jesus. Full. Maxed out. Complete. And then he says something almost startling: try to add anything to that, and you're not improving the trip—you're sinking the ship. I get why we try. Our brains keep whispering that the gospel is too simple. Surely there's more we need to do, feel, prove, or perform. So we start stacking extras on the deck. A little legalism here. A flashy spiritual experience there. A nice coat of cultural respectability on top. Before long, the boat's groaning, and we're wondering why our faith feels heavy instead of free. Here's the good news today: you don't have to earn what you already have. If Jesus is in you, the cargo hold is full. You're not behind. You're not lacking. You're not one more discipline, conference, or experience away from being a real Christian. Just sail. Trust the Captain. Enjoy the fullness.ship
June 23, 2026 • 1 Minute Read
Don't Get In The Wrong Taxi
Years ago in China, I walked out of an airport tired, saw a sharp-dressed guy with a clean car (technically, it was an “illegal” taxi, but they were quite common), and thought, "Sure, why not?" I was tired, and a comfy ride home in a nice care from the airport sounded great. 5 minutes later he pulled over next to a rickety van, pointed, and said, "That's your ride." Bait and switch. I'd been “hijacked.” Paul says our faith can get hijacked the same way. Something polished pulls up, promises a smoother ride, and the next thing you know you're being driven somewhere you never meant to go. The hijackers are sneaky—smart-sounding ideas that leave Jesus out, rule-keeping that replaces relationship, spiritual highs that bypass real connection, and cultural respectability that masquerades as righteousness. Each one promises a better ride. Each one charges a price you didn't agree to. Here's what I've learned: the "legit taxi"—the real, authentic walk with Jesus—isn't flashy. It's not always exciting. But it always gets you home. Stay in that ride. Talk to Jesus today, and let Him lead. He's the only one who actually knows where you're going.taxi
June 21, 2026 • 7 Minute Read
What is hijacking your faith?
OVERVIEW 👀 In this fifth message from the Book of Colossians, Pastor Paul Durbin walks us through Colossians 2:8–23 and uncovers four sneaky "hijackers" that try to pull our faith away from Jesus. Using a memorable story of a bait-and-switch taxi ride in China, Paul reminds us that in Christ we already have fullness, newness, and forgiveness—and we don't need anything more added to that. He challenges us to spot godless philosophies, legalistic rule keeping, mystical experiences, and traditional wisdom that try to take us for a ride to places we don't want to go. The invitation is simple: keep your faith squarely rooted in Jesus.hijack TIPS 📌 For the greatest impact, invite a few others to go through this study guide with you. You don't need to do every section and question—use what fits your group or season. Let the Spirit highlight where to slow down and engage. ICEBREAKER(S) 🧊 Have you ever been "bait and switched" by something that promised one thing and delivered another (a vacation, a product, a meal)? Tell the story. BIBLE PASSAGE(S) 📖 Colossians 3:1–4:1 (NIV) 1 Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. 2 Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. 3 For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. 4 When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory. 5 Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires and greed, which is idolatry. 6 Because of these, the wrath of God is coming. 7 You used to walk in these ways, in the life you once lived. 8 But now you must also rid yourselves of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips. 9 Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices 10 and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator. 11 Here there is no Gentile or Jew, circumcised or uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave or free, but Christ is all, and is in all. 12 Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. 13 Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. 14 And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity. 15 Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. 16 Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts. 17 And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. 18 Wives, submit yourselves to your husbands, as is fitting in the Lord. 19 Husbands, love your wives and do not be harsh with them. 20 Children, obey your parents in everything, for this pleases the Lord. 21 Fathers, do not embitter your children, or they will become discouraged. 22 Slaves, obey your earthly masters in everything; and do it, not only when their eye is on you and to curry their favor, but with sincerity of heart and reverence for the Lord. 23 Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, 24 since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving. 25 Anyone who does wrong will be repaid for their wrongs, and there is no favoritism. 1 Masters, provide your slaves with what is right and fair, because you know that you also have a Master in heaven. OBSERVATION 🔎 What words or phrases does Paul use to describe what we already have "in Christ"? What specific warnings or "watch outs" does Paul give in this passage? What does Paul say happened to the record of our sin, and what imagery does he use to describe it? APPLICATION 👋 Where are you most tempted to believe Jesus alone isn't enough—that you need to add something to your faith to feel secure? Paul compares our fullness in Christ to a cargo ship that can't take on one more piece of cargo without sinking. What "extras" have you been tempted to load on top of Jesus? Is there a "godless philosophy" or smart-sounding idea you've been quietly absorbing that leaves Jesus out of the equation? Do you find yourself measuring your spiritual life more by rules you keep (or break) than by your relationship with Jesus? What might that be hiding? Pastor Paul shared that he's had real, unexplainable spiritual experiences—but warned against chasing the experience over the relationship. Where might you be chasing a spiritual "high" instead of a steady walk with Jesus? What cultural expectations (being on time, independent, successful, polished) do you sometimes confuse with being a good Christian? These are good things, but they're not the same as righteousness in Christ. If a friend asked you, "What does it actually mean to follow Jesus?" how would you answer without sliding into a list of do's and don'ts? LIVE ON BELAY 🏔️ Pick one "hijacker" from the message (philosophy, legalism, mysticism, or cultural wisdom) and ask a trusted friend this week to help you spot it in your own life. Write down three things you have in Christ—fullness, newness, forgiveness—and share them with someone who needs that reminder. Reach out to someone who feels disqualified or "not enough" spiritually and remind them what Jesus has already done for them. Invite someone over for a meal this week and have a real, unhurried conversation about faith—relationship, not rules. Spend one morning this week unplugged from social media or news, and use that time to simply talk with Jesus like a friend. PRAYER 🙏 Thank Jesus for the fullness, newness, and forgiveness you already have in Him. Ask the Spirit to show you any "hijacker" that's slowly pulled you off course. Pray for someone you know who's stuck in rule-keeping religion instead of relationship. Ask God to keep your faith simple, steady, and rooted in Jesus alone. Pray for Belay'ers to live on belay this week—on mission, in step with the Spirit. WORSHIP 🙌 OUTLINE 📝 Main Idea: In Christ, you already have everything you need—don't let anything hijack that. What We Have In Christ Fullness — the cargo ship is full Newness — buried and raised with Christ Forgiveness — nailed to the cross Hijacker One: Godless Philosophies Smart-sounding ideas that leave Jesus out True wisdom starts with the fear of the Lord C.S. Lewis: by Christ we see everything else Hijacker Two: Legalistic Rule Keeping Measuring faith by do's and don'ts Rules are a shadow; Christ is the reality Relationship, not a rulebook Hijacker Three: Mystical Experiences Chasing a high over a connection Experiences without the Head are empty Welcome them, but don't worship them Hijacker Four: Traditional Wisdom Cultural norms can look like righteousness Good citizen ≠ citizen of heaven Honor culture, but don't bow to it Takeaway: Put your faith squarely in Jesus—He is enough, and anything added only sinks the ship.
June 16, 2026 • 1 Minute Read
Don't Fall for Fine-Sounding Arguments
Bank tellers don't spot counterfeit bills by studying every fake one out there. They spot them by knowing the real thing so well that anything off feels wrong instantly. That's spiritual discernment. Paul warned the Colossians—and us—about "fine-sounding arguments." Notice he didn't say bad-sounding arguments. The dangerous ones sound good. They sound smart, spiritual, even biblical. They're the ones that quietly add something to Jesus: Jesus plus rules, Jesus plus rituals, Jesus plus the latest trending voice, Jesus plus your performance. But the gospel is breathtakingly simple. "Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners." That's it. I'm a sinner, I need Jesus, and He did everything required. Jesus didn't pay 80% and leave you to scrape together the rest. Here's the encouraging part: you don't have to become a heresy hunter or memorize every false teaching out there. You just have to keep getting to know Jesus. Read His Word. Sit with His Spirit. Walk with His people. The more familiar you are with the real Jesus, the quicker you'll feel it when something is just a little off. Stay close to Him this week. Counterfeits lose their pull when you know the real thing.counter
June 16, 2026 • 2 Minute Read
Go Deep Like a Pinyon Pine
The blue spruce is gorgeous. Tall, that unforgettable color, impressive in every way. But here's the thing—its roots only go down about 12 to 18 inches. So when a real wind hits, over it goes. Meanwhile, the scrubby little pinyon pine is hanging off the edge of the Grand Canyon like it's no big deal. Why? Because it sends a taproot way down deep. It's not flashy. It's not tall. But it's anchored. I think a lot of us are trying to grow as blue spruces. We spread our spiritual roots wide—sampling every podcast, every trend, every new idea that floats by. And then we wonder why the first hard wind knocks us flat. Paul saw this coming. He wrote, "Just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him." Rooted. Down. Deep. Going deep isn't glamorous. It looks like opening your Bible again. Praying when you don't feel like it. Showing up to community when staying home would be easier. It's quiet, steady, unimpressive work. But it's the kind of work that holds you up when the canyon wind starts howling. So today, instead of spreading wider, go deeper. Just a little. Jesus is worth the dig.deeper
June 14, 2026 • 6 Minute Read
How Can I Grow Toward Greater Christ-Like Maturity? P2
OVERVIEW 👀 In part two of his teaching on Christ-like maturity, Pastor Paul Durbin walks Belay'ers through Colossians 1:24–2:7 to unpack three more deliberate practices that grow us into spiritually mature followers of Jesus. He shows how spiritual discernment, continual growth, and overflowing thankfulness move us past fine-sounding arguments and shallow faith into a deeply rooted life in Christ. Using the picture of a pinyon pine sending its taproot deep into rocky ground, Paul invites us to stop spreading wide and start going down—anchored in Jesus, who is all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.part 2 TIPS 📌 For the greatest impact, invite a few others to go through this study guide with you. You don't need to do every section and question—use what fits your group or season. Let the Spirit highlight where to slow down and engage. ICEBREAKER(S) 🧊 If you had 10,000 hours to master any skill (no responsibilities, no excuses), what would you pick and why? BIBLE PASSAGE(S) 📖 Colossians 1:24–2:7 24 Now I rejoice in what I am suffering for you, and I fill up in my flesh what is still lacking in regard to Christ’s afflictions, for the sake of his body, which is the church. 25 I have become its servant by the commission God gave me to present to you the word of God in its fullness—26 the mystery that has been kept hidden for ages and generations, but is now disclosed to the Lord’s people. 27 To them God has chosen to make known among the Gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory. 28 He is the one we proclaim, admonishing and teaching everyone with all wisdom, so that we may present everyone fully mature in Christ. 29 To this end I strenuously contend with all the energy Christ so powerfully works in me. 1 I want you to know how hard I am contending for you and for those at Laodicea, and for all who have not met me personally. 2 My goal is that they may be encouraged in heart and united in love, so that they may have the full riches of complete understanding, in order that they may know the mystery of God, namely, Christ, 3 in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. 4 I tell you this so that no one may deceive you by fine-sounding arguments. 5 For though I am absent from you in body, I am present with you in spirit and delight to see how disciplined you are and how firm your faith in Christ is. 6 So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, 7 rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness. OBSERVATION 🔎 What words or phrases does Paul use to describe what Jesus is and what He gives to believers in this passage? What does Paul say is his goal for the believers he writes to, and what reasons does he give for telling them all of this? Paul uses agricultural and construction images (rooted, built up, strengthened). What do these word pictures suggest about the kind of life Paul is describing? APPLICATION 👋 Paul warns about being deceived by "fine-sounding arguments." What's a spiritual idea or message you've encountered recently that sounded great on the surface but didn't quite line up with Jesus? We grow in discernment by knowing the real thing—Jesus Himself. How would you describe your current rhythm of getting to know Jesus through His Word? The legalism trap says, "Jesus plus something else." Where might you be tempted to add conditions—rules, performance, or proving yourself—to your relationship with God? The mysticism trap says other voices or practices are also needed to be whole. Are there any "extra voices" (horoscopes, self-help gurus, trending spiritual ideas) competing with Jesus for your attention? Blue spruce roots grow wide but shallow; pinyon pine roots grow deep. Honestly, which one better describes your spiritual life right now? Take a moment to consider why. Paul says to "continue to live your lives in him." Where are you tempted to coast or stop growing? What does pressing on look like in this season? Paul mentions thankfulness in every chapter of Colossians. What would change in your daily life if you actually overflowed with gratitude instead of complaints or excuses? LIVE ON BELAY 🏔️ Pick one passage of Scripture this week (try Colossians 1–2) and read it daily. Let it sink in so you can recognize the real thing when fine-sounding arguments come along. Write down three things you're thankful for every morning this week—and tell at least one person each day something specific you appreciate about them. Invite someone further along in their faith to coffee and ask them how they've grown a deeper taproot in Jesus. Listen, take notes, and apply what you hear. Identify one "extra voice" you've been listening to (a podcast, app, influencer, habit) that's been crowding out Jesus, and take a break from it for two weeks. Send a quick text, note, or voice message to someone outside your normal circle this week to encourage them and remind them that Christ in them is the hope of glory. PRAYER 🙏 Thank Jesus that the gospel is simple: He came to save sinners, and that includes you. Ask the Holy Spirit for sharper discernment to spot fine-sounding arguments that pull you off course. Pray for a deeper taproot—ask God to root you in Him and in His Word this season. Ask God to make you a person who overflows with thankfulness, even on hard days. Pray for someone in your life who needs to hear the hope of "Christ in you" today. WORSHIP 🙌 OUTLINE 📝 Main Idea: Growing toward Christ-like maturity takes time, mentors, and deliberate practices that root us deeply in Jesus. Quick Review of Last Week's Practices joyful suffering willing service strenuous contending walking in glorious hope 5) The Practice of Spiritual Discernment fine-sounding arguments still exist today the legalism trap: Jesus plus rules the mysticism trap: Jesus plus other voices we discern by knowing the real Jesus 6) The Practice of Continual Growth blue spruce: wide roots, easily blown over pinyon pine: deep taproot, survives the storms the parable of the soils—go deep in good soil 7) The Practice of Overflowing Thankfulness we overflow with apologies, excuses, or complaints Paul mentions gratitude in every chapter of Colossians what if we went overboard with thankfulness? Takeaway: Practice these things and immerse yourself in them, so all may see your progress.
June 12, 2026 • 2 Minute Read
The 50-Year-Old Pot of Soup
There's a Chinese cooking tradition called master stock—lu shui. It's a soup base that never gets thrown out. Some restaurants have pots that have been simmering, in some form, for 50 years. The mystery of the flavor isn't a new spice. It's the old one. The ancient one. Consider that image as you think about spiritual maturity. We live in a world that sells us a hundred new hacks every week. New morning routine. New brain trick. New five-step plan. And somewhere along the way, we start to believe that growing up in Jesus should work the same way—fast, fresh, and trending. But Paul says the mystery is this: "Christ in you, the hope of glory." That's it. The secret ingredient isn't new. He's been around since before time started. He's already seen how the story ends. And He's the one doing the simmering inside of you. So here's the invitation today. Stop chasing the next shiny thing. Sit down at the same old pot. Open the Word. Talk to Jesus like He's actually in the room—because He is. Let His Spirit keep doing the slow, deep work that no shortcut can replicate. You're not behind. You're simmering. And the flavor that's coming out of your life is exactly what the people around you are hungry for.soup
June 12, 2026 • 2 Minute Read
Reframing the Hard Stuff
When Paul wrote, "I rejoice in what I am suffering for you," he wasn't chained to a desk—he was chained to a guard. And yet his first words weren't, "Get me out of here." They were words of joy. That's not normal. That's mature. In this life, we will have times of suffering. We don't really get to vote on that. What we do get to choose is whether we walk through it bitter or joyful. Bitter suffering complains, blames, and sets up camp in a bad mood. Joyful suffering says, "Jesus walked through hard things too. Maybe this is where I get to know Him a little better." That's not denial. That's not pretending the pain isn't real. Paul still prayed three times for his thorn to be removed. Jesus Himself asked if the cup could pass. We can do both—pray hard for breakthrough and receive the moment as holy ground at the same time. So if you're in a hard season right now, try this. Don't just ask, "God, get me out." Ask, "God, what do You want me to see about You while I'm in here?" That one shift can turn a prison cell into a classroom. Jesus isn't watching from the finish line. He's right there in the cell with you. And what He's growing in you might be exactly what someone else needs to see.reframe
June 12, 2026 • 7 Minute Read
How Can I Grow Toward Greater Christ-Like Maturity?
OVERVIEW 👀 In this message from Colossians 1:24–2:7, Paul Durbin unpacks the Apostle Paul's vision of becoming "fully mature" (teleios) in Christ. Drawing on Malcolm Gladwell's 10,000-hour rule and the pushback that real mastery requires deliberate practice with coaching, Paul shows that spiritual maturity works the same way. Jesus isn't waiting at the finish line tapping His foot—He's the world-class expert walking with us, filling us with His Spirit. Through four deliberate practices—joyful suffering, willing service, strenuous contending, and glorious hope—we grow into the kind of mature, seasoned followers who reflect Jesus to the world.Grow TIPS 📌 For the greatest impact, invite a few others to go through this study guide with you. You don't need to do every section and question—use what fits your group or season. Let the Spirit highlight where to slow down and engage. ICEBREAKER(S) 🧊 Have you ever been in an outdoor situation that got way more serious than you expected? (Lost on a trail, stuck in weather, kayak drifting out to sea…) BIBLE PASSAGE(S) 📖 Colossians 1:24–2:7
24 Now I rejoice in what I am suffering for you, and I fill up in my flesh what is still lacking in regard to Christ’s afflictions, for the sake of his body, which is the church. 25 I have become its servant by the commission God gave me to present to you the word of God in its fullness—26 the mystery that has been kept hidden for ages and generations, but is now disclosed to the Lord’s people. 27 To them God has chosen to make known among the Gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory. 28 He is the one we proclaim, admonishing and teaching everyone with all wisdom, so that we may present everyone fully mature in Christ. 29 To this end I strenuously contend with all the energy Christ so powerfully works in me. 1 I want you to know how hard I am contending for you and for those at Laodicea, and for all who have not met me personally. 2 My goal is that they may be encouraged in heart and united in love, so that they may have the full riches of complete understanding, in order that they may know the mystery of God, namely, Christ, 3 in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. 4 I tell you this so that no one may deceive you by fine-sounding arguments. 5 For though I am absent from you in body, I am present with you in spirit and delight to see how disciplined you are and how firm your faith in Christ is. 6 So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, 7 rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness. OBSERVATION 🔎 What words or phrases does Paul repeat in this passage, and what do those repetitions emphasize about his focus? According to verse 28, what is Paul's goal for the people he serves, and what methods does he use to get them there? What does Paul say about the source of his energy and strength in verse 29, and how does that contrast with how we usually think about hard work? APPLICATION 👋 Paul says he rejoices in his suffering. Where in your life right now are you tempted toward bitter suffering instead of joyful suffering? Reframing pain through the lens of knowing Jesus better is hard—but it changes everything. Think about a current frustration or hardship and how Jesus might be in it with you. What's one area where you've stopped growing because you've gotten comfortable just doing what you already know how to do? Like the violinists who needed deliberate practice and coaching, we can plateau spiritually without realizing it. Comfort is often the enemy of maturity. Paul went from persecuting the church to becoming its servant. What does it look like for you to "become" a servant in this season—at home, work, or church? Maturity shows up when we walk into a room asking how we can serve instead of how we'll be served. When was the last time you strenuously contended for something spiritually—prayer, a relationship, a habit, a calling? Kapos means weariness like you've been beaten. Most of us avoid that kind of effort in our walk with Jesus, but it's where real growth happens. Where do you feel like you've got "nothing left"—and how might Jesus be the speedboat showing up on the swell? Paul didn't fight with his own energy; he fought with Christ's energy in him. That changes both what we attempt and how long we keep going. What "new hacks" or quick fixes have you been chasing for spiritual growth instead of the old, proven ingredient of Jesus Himself? The master stock isn't impressive because it's new—it's rich because it's ancient. Maturity comes from time spent with the timeless One. Who in your life is farther along in faith, and how could you invite their honest feedback into your spiritual growth? Mastery requires coaches and mentors. We need people who'll tell us the truth and help us see our blind spots. LIVE ON BELAY 🏔️ Pick one current hardship and write down three ways God might be using it to grow you—then share it with a fellow Belay'er this week. Show up somewhere this week (Belay, work, neighborhood, family) with one question on your mind: "How can I serve here?" Then actually do it. Choose one area where you've been ready to quit—a relationship, a habit, a calling—and recommit for 30 more days of strenuous contending, with prayer and a friend cheering you on. Reach out to someone you know who's suffering and simply sit with them—bring a meal, a text, or a coffee. Be the speedboat showing up on the swell. Find a mature believer and ask them to coach or mentor you in one specific area of your faith for the next season. PRAYER 🙏 Jesus, when suffering shows up, help me reframe it as a doorway to know You better. Lord, give me a true servant's heart—make me someone who walks in asking how to give, not how to get. Holy Spirit, fill me with the energy of Christ to strenuously contend where I'd rather quit. Father, free me from chasing quick fixes and root me deeper in the ancient, proven goodness of Jesus. Jesus, make me a giant in the faith—not for applause, but for the sake of the people You've placed around me. WORSHIP 🙌 OUTLINE 📝 Main Idea: Christ-like maturity (teleios) doesn't happen by accident—it's the result of deliberate, Spirit-empowered practice over time. 1) The Practice of Joyful Suffering Paul rejoices from prison Reframing pain to know Jesus better Praying for breakthrough while receiving the work 2) The Practice of Willing Service Paul "became" a servant Maturity shows up not on stage, but in the kitchen Putting childhood selfishness behind us 3) The Practice of Strenuous Contending Kapos—weariness like being beaten The kayak story: when the fight leaves you Fighting with Christ's energy, not just our own 4) The Practice of Glorious Hope The master stock: ancient, not new Christ in you, the hope of glory Yielding daily: "Fill me up, Jesus" Takeaway: Don't chase new hacks—press into the ancient, Spirit-filled practices that grow giants in the faith.
June 6, 2026 • 3 Minute Read
5 Stages of Marriage
What Stage Are You In? When Patty and I said "I do," nobody handed us a roadmap. We anticipated that marriage would be a steady climb upward—two people who loved each other simply loving each other more as the years rolled by. But marriage isn't a straight line. It's a journey with distinct stages, and every couple moves through them. The good news? When you know what stage you're in, you stop panicking when things get difficult. You realize you're not broken—you're just in a season. And every season has a purpose. Here are the five stages most marriages experience. 💕 Honeymoon Stage This is the magical beginning, when love feels effortless and your partner can do no wrong. Emotions run high and the connection feels electric. Head over heels in love Passionate romance and starry-eyed wonder Powerful chemistry between you Everything about your partner feels perfect "I am my beloved's, and my beloved is mine." — Song of Solomon 6:3 😬 Reality Stage The fog of romance lifts and real life sets in. You start noticing your partner's quirks and wondering if you really knew them at all. Usually hits a few weeks after the honeymoon The "What was I thinking?" moment arrives A shift from delight to disillusionment Little things start to bother you, and it feels like you have less in common than you thought "Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud." — 1 Corinthians 13:4 🚦 Adaptation Stage This is the crossroads. You're faced with the reality that your spouse isn't exactly who you imagined—and neither are you. Now you have to decide what to do about it. Three paths open up in front of you: GO: Split up and go separate ways STATUS QUO: Stay together but live unhappily GROW: Choose to develop healthier ways of seeing each other "Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother's eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye?" — Matthew 7:3 🌱 Transformation Stage For couples who choose to grow, real change starts happening. You stop trying to win and start trying to understand. Accept that you'll never see eye to eye on everything Consciously decide not to push each other's buttons Look at yourself more honestly and make real changes Struggle decreases, harmony increases "Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love." — Ephesians 4:2 🌳 Mature Love Stage This is the payoff for couples who stayed the course. Love feels deeper, richer, and more secure than ever before. You share a meaningful history together The qualities that first attracted you come back into focus Renewed connection—you feel closer than ever More harmony, and you genuinely like each other again A quiet pride in what you've built side by side "Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken." — Ecclesiastes 4:12 A Final Word Wherever you find yourself today—honeymoon, reality check, or somewhere in the messy middle—don't lose heart. Marriage isn't meant to be easy; it's meant to make us more like Christ. The struggle isn't a sign your marriage is failing. It's often the very thing God uses to grow you both into something beautiful. If you're stuck, reach out. Talk to your spouse honestly. Find a mentor couple. The best marriages aren't the ones that avoid the hard stages—they're the ones that walk through them together. This article is based on a teaching Paul heard at a Responding to Relationships seminar.
June 4, 2026 • 2 Minute Read
Who did you GIFT this week?
What is GIFT? GIFT is a simple way to help Sundays at Belay continue to be welcoming and friendly. Greet Greet someone you've never met before. If they're new, welcome them and learn something about them. If they've been around a while and you just haven't met yet, introduce yourself. If they came alone, offer to sit with them. Introduce Introduce people to each other. Connect people who share something in common. Introduce a first-time guest to the pastor or a leader. Be the bridge between strangers and friends. Follow Up Follow up with someone you met recently. Call them by name. Pick up the conversation where it left off. Invite them into your circle of friends. Thank Thank someone who did something you appreciate. A simple "I love those songs!" to the worship leader. A “that was delicious” to whoever brought breakfast. A note of encouragement to a nursery worker. Ask a fellow Belayer, "Who did you GIFT this week?" Not many of us can do all four letters of GIFT every week. But if we each commit to just one a week (and ask each other about it) this simple plan can help Sundays at Belay continue to be a place of real belonging. Based on an article by Karl Vaters, https://karlvaters.com/friendlier-to-guests/
May 3, 2026 • 2 Minute Read
The Book of Acts Ends on an Adverb
The book of Acts ends on an adverb. Seriously. Luke—one of the most careful, polished writers in the early church—stops his story mid-sentence on the word "unhindered." Paul is under house arrest, the verdict is unclear, the churches are scattered, and Luke just… puts the pen down. It feels like a mistake. But I think it's actually the point. The story wasn't over when Luke stopped writing. It still isn't. The Spirit who came at Pentecost, the gospel that cut three thousand people to the heart, the unnamed men and women from Cyprus who just started talking about Jesus to their neighbors—that whole movement keeps going. And somewhere in the middle of it is you and me. I think a lot of us read the Bible like it's a closed book about people who lived a long time ago. But Acts refuses to let us do that. It hands us the pen. It says: keep writing. Keep walking. Keep telling people about Jesus in your kitchen, on your hike, at the coffee shop, in the carpool line. You don't need a title or a platform. The gospel reached the Gentiles because of people Luke didn't even bother to name. That's encouraging to me. The story of Jesus at work in the world has always moved forward on the backs of regular people who simply stayed devoted and stayed available. So—where are you in the story right now? Name it. Tell someone. And then take the next small step. This thought is based on this recent sermon by Kevan Ho:View Media
May 3, 2026 • 9 Minute Read
Where Are You in the Story God Is Still Writing?
In this message, Kevan Ho walks us through a sweeping survey of the first half of the book of Acts, showing how the early church was born, shaped, and scattered—all in the rhythm of God's mission. From the confrontation of the gospel to a community marked by devotion, from facing real problems to being sent out by unnamed everyday people, Kevan invites us to find ourselves in this ongoing story. The book of Acts ends mid-sentence on purpose, because the story of Jesus at work through His people is still being written—and we're part of it.View Media TIPS 📌 For the greatest impact, invite a few others to go through this study guide with you. You don't need to do every section and question—use what fits your group or season. Let the Spirit highlight where to slow down and engage. ICEBREAKER(S) 🧊 If you had to describe yourself as a "devoted fan" of something (a sport, a snack, a TV show, a hobby), what would it be and how embarrassing is the level of devotion? BIBLE PASSAGE(S) 📖 Acts 1:8 — But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth. Acts 2:1-4 — When the day of Pentecost arrived, they were all together in one place. And suddenly there came from heaven a sound like a mighty rushing wind, and it filled the entire house where they were sitting. And divided tongues as of fire appeared to them and rested on each one of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance. Acts 2:36-38 — Let all the house of Israel therefore know for certain that God has made him both Lord and Christ, this Jesus whom you crucified. Now when they heard this they were cut to the heart, and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, "Brothers, what shall we do?" And Peter said to them, "Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit." Acts 2:42-47 — And they devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. And awe came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were being done through the apostles. And all who believed were together and had all things in common. And they were selling their possessions and belongings and distributing the proceeds to all, as any had need. And day by day, attending the temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they received their food with glad and generous hearts, praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved. Acts 8:1-4 — And Saul approved of his execution. And there arose on that day a great persecution against the church in Jerusalem, and they were all scattered throughout the regions of Judea and Samaria, except the apostles. Devout men buried Stephen and made great lamentation over him. But Saul was ravaging the church, and entering house after house, he dragged off men and women and committed them to prison. Now those who were scattered went about preaching the word. Acts 11:19-21 — Now those who were scattered because of the persecution that arose over Stephen traveled as far as Phoenicia and Cyprus and Antioch, speaking the word to no one except Jews. But there were some of them, men of Cyprus and Cyrene, who on coming to Antioch spoke to the Hellenists also, preaching the Lord Jesus. And the hand of the Lord was with them, and a great number who believed turned to the Lord. Acts 28:30-31 — He lived there two whole years at his own expense, and welcomed all who came to him, proclaiming the kingdom of God and teaching about the Lord Jesus Christ with all boldness and without hindrance. OBSERVATION 🔎 In Acts 1:8, what does Jesus connect the power of the Holy Spirit to? Notice the geographic progression—what does it suggest about the scope of God's mission? In Acts 2:42-47, what four things were the early believers devoted to, and what specific behaviors flowed out of that devotion? In Acts 8:1-4 and 11:19-21, who is actually doing the preaching as the gospel spreads? What do you notice about how God uses the scattering? APPLICATION 👋 Kevan said the Christian message is sometimes comforting and sometimes deeply confrontational. Where in your life right now do you sense God comforting you, and where might He be confronting you? This question helps us recognize that a healthy walk with Jesus includes both being held and being challenged. Kevan reminded us that confrontation isn't shaming—it's like a doctor honestly telling us the diagnosis so we can be healed. When the crowd was "cut to the heart," they asked, "What shall we do?" Is there an area of your life where the Spirit has cut you to the heart but you haven't yet responded with repentance or change? Repentance simply means turning around—stepping down as king of your own life so Jesus can take the throne. Kevan shared his own story of being fourteen and hearing the gospel for the first time as the song his heart had been humming all along. The early church was marked by devotion—to teaching, prayer, fellowship, and one another. What are you actually devoted to right now (be honest), and what would it look like to grow in devotion to Jesus and His people? Kevan pointed out that devoted people can spot casual fans a mile away. Devotion shows up in how we spend our time, our money, and our attention. Ananias and Sapphira's sin wasn't a lack of generosity—it was wanting to appear more than they were. Where do you feel the pull to "image manage" in your spiritual life? This is the gap between who we are and who we want to appear to be. Kevan said the church should be a safe place to bring our honest selves in search of grace. When you see problems in the church (any church, including Belay), what's your default reaction—withdraw, complain quietly, or humbly bring it forward in a way that seeks solutions? The early church had real problems—neglect, deception, persecution—and they didn't pretend otherwise. Kevan highlighted that truthful, humble complaints brought to leadership actually moved the mission forward. Looking back at painful or disorienting seasons in your life, can you see places where God was writing a bigger story than the one you were feeling in the moment? Kevan reminded us that the scattering of the early church looked like loss but was actually the spread of the gospel. Our pain isn't wasted in the hands of a redeeming God. The gospel went to the Gentiles because of unnamed people from Cyprus and Cyrene who just started talking about Jesus. Who in your life right now might God be inviting you to simply have a conversation with? You don't need a title, a degree, or an official role to live on mission. Kevan shared how his family came to Colorado with one simple motto: "We're going to make friends for Jesus." LIVE ON BELAY 🏔️ Pick one person this week who doesn't know Jesus and pray for them daily by name. Then look for one natural opportunity to invite them into your life—coffee, a meal, a walk, a hike. Practice radical honesty with one trusted person this week. Share something real you've been hiding or managing, and let them speak grace and truth back to you. Identify one rhythm of devotion (Scripture, prayer, fellowship, generosity) that's been slipping, and rebuild it this week in a concrete way—even if it's small. Look for an "unnamed" act of kindness or witness you can offer someone this week. No platform, no spotlight—just a quiet conversation, a meal delivered, a need met. If you've been carrying a complaint or concern about something in the church, bring it forward humbly and truthfully to a leader or a Belay'er you trust, with a heart for solutions. PRAYER 🙏 Ask the Spirit to show you where you are in the Acts story right now—and to give you courage to name it honestly. Pray for someone in your life who needs to hear the gospel. Ask God to soften their heart and to give you the words and the moments. Pray for Belay to be a community marked by devotion, honesty, and joy—not image management or casual faith. If you're in a season of pain, loss, or disorientation, ask God to show you the bigger story He's writing, even when you can't see it. Pray for the unnamed Belay'ers quietly living on mission—at work, in neighborhoods, in schools, in homes. WORSHIP 🙌 OUTLINE Kevan opens by setting up the strange ending of Acts—Luke stops mid-story on the word "unhindered." The Great Commission in Acts 1:8 becomes the table of contents for the whole book: Jerusalem, Judea and Samaria, the ends of the earth. Pentecost in Acts 2: the Spirit comes communally and propels the disciples into mission. Peter's sermon confronts the crowd with both their sin and God's love—they are cut to the heart and respond with repentance and baptism. Kevan shares his own fourteen-year-old story of hearing the gospel for the first time. Acts 2:42-47: the early church is marked by deep devotion—to teaching, prayer, fellowship, generosity, and one another. Ananias and Sapphira: the sin of image management and deception, and the call to radical honesty in community. Acts 6: real problems of neglect in the church, and the model of truthful complaint, humble leadership, and faithful problem-solving. Acts 7-8: persecution, the scattering, and the bigger story God writes in the midst of pain and loss. Acts 11: unnamed men and women from Cyprus and Cyrene take the gospel to the Gentiles—shifting the center of gravity to Antioch. Kevan ties it back to his own family's move to Colorado and the everyday mission of making friends for Jesus. The book ends "unhindered" because the story keeps going—through us. Where are you in the arc?
