“Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan and was led around by the Spirit in the wilderness for forty days, being tempted by the devil. And He ate nothing during those days, and when they had ended, He became hungry. And the devil said to Him, “If You are the Son of God, tell this stone to become bread.” And Jesus answered him, “It is written, ‘Man shall not live on bread alone.’ ” And he led Him up and showed Him all the kingdoms of the world in a moment of time. And the devil said to Him, “I will give You all this domain and its glory; for it has been handed over to me, and I give it to whomever I wish. Therefore if You worship before me, it shall all be Yours.” Jesus answered him, “It is written, ‘You shall worship the Lord your God and serve Him only.’ ” And he led Him to Jerusalem and had Him stand on the pinnacle of the temple, and said to Him, “If You are the Son of God, throw Yourself down from here; for it is written, ‘He will command His angels concerning You to guard You,’ and, ‘On their hands they will bear You up, So that You will not strike Your foot against a stone.’ ” And Jesus answered and said to him, “It is said, ‘You shall not put the Lord your God to the test.’ ” When the devil had finished every temptation, he left Him until an opportune time.”‭‭—Luke‬ ‭4‬:‭1‬-13Support the Show.The American Soul Podcasthttps://www.buzzsprout.com/1791934/subscribe

Have you ever wondered how to manage daily routines while keeping faith at the forefront of your life? Join me, Jesse Cope, as I share heartfelt reflections on family life and the essential role of structured prayer and Bible reading in grounding us amidst the chaos. I offer practical advice, such as creating a prayer list and prioritizing time with your spouse, and recommend three invaluable resources— the Patriot Bible, the Founders Bible, and America's God and Country Encyclopedia of Quotations. These tools provide a richer understanding of America's Christian heritage, capped off by a moving reading from Exodus, echoing the commandments dear to President Truman.Curious about the paradox of finding peace through surrender? I recount a personal story, juxtaposing my fear of roller coasters with my love for flying small planes, to highlight the irony in our approaches to risk and control. We discuss the profound notion that true peace is found in faith and the biblical foundations of our laws and values, while cautioning against the dangers of drifting away from these principles. As we navigate modern complexities, I offer a heartfelt blessing for you and your families, invoking divine guidance for our nation and reasserting the importance of faith in our daily lives.Support the Show.The American Soul Podcasthttps://www.buzzsprout.com/1791934/subscribe

Have you ever thought about the power of a simple prayer offered in the moment? Join us on the latest episode of the American Soul Podcast as we share heartfelt stories that embody the essence of faith and gratitude. We begin by updating you on the recent storm that swept through our homestead and the resilience it has fostered within our family. Inspired by my father's tradition of "arrow prayers," we'll recount a listener's touching practice of praying for children seen alone, illustrating how small, faithful actions can have a profound impact. As we approach Memorial Day, we emphasize the importance of honoring the sacrifices of our fallen soldiers and express our gratitude for our veterans through meaningful gestures.In the second part of our episode, we delve into the theme of personal spiritual responsibility, drawing from the teachings of Jesus Christ. We reflect on the notion that true change starts within ourselves rather than imposing expectations on others. A particularly moving segment features an unfinished prayer from George Washington’s journal, which underscores humility and a plea for divine forgiveness. As we conclude, we extend our heartfelt blessings to you, your families, our veterans, and our nation, and share our excitement for the next conversation. Tune in for an episode filled with personal reflections, inspiring stories, and a call to reconnect with our spiritual roots.Support the Show.The American Soul Podcasthttps://www.buzzsprout.com/1791934/subscribe

“Now when all the people were baptized, Jesus was also baptized, and while He was praying, heaven was opened, and the Holy Spirit descended upon Him in bodily form like a dove, and a voice came out of heaven, “You are My beloved Son, in You I am well-pleased.””‭‭—Luke‬ ‭3‬:‭21‬-‭22‬ ‭Support the Show.The American Soul Podcasthttps://www.buzzsprout.com/1791934/subscribe

What if the actions of a few cast a shadow over an entire community's beliefs? In this heartfelt episode of the American Soul Podcast, we grapple with the complex and often painful events of October 7th in Israel, where Hamas militants engaged in brutality that shocked the world. We provide a historical lens on the interactions between America and Muslim states, revealing a pattern that many might find unsettling. Yet, amidst these heavy topics, we also share a story of personal encounters with kind and trustworthy Muslim colleagues overseas, adding a layer of nuance to an often one-sided narrative.Switching gears, we confront the contentious issue of immigration policy and assimilation. With a critical eye, we dissect the Denver mayor's statement on shared sacrifice for newcomers crossing the border illegally and discuss the broader implications of such divisive tactics. Our conversation is a wake-up call to recognize and combat strategies that threaten national unity. For those wanting to dig deeper, we recommend an insightful article by Catebella Roberts. We close with heartfelt well-wishes, aiming to inspire thoughtful reflection on these critical matters and reinforce the importance of unity in challenging times.Support the Show.The American Soul Podcasthttps://www.buzzsprout.com/1791934/subscribe

Have you ever found yourself in a tug-of-war between faith and doubt? This week on the American Soul Podcast, I open up about my own struggles with balancing life's demands and nurturing a meaningful spiritual connection. From updates on our homestead to a heartfelt prayer for you and your loved ones, this episode is a genuine reflection on the challenges many of us face in our spiritual journeys. I share my personal story of grappling with faith, especially when distractions like sports seem to take precedence over more profound connections, hoping to resonate with those who have grown up in faith-filled environments but still question their beliefs.In the following chapters, we turn our focus to a powerful narrative from Mark 9, where a father's desperate plea to Jesus for his son's healing echoes our own moments of doubt and belief. "I believe; help my unbelief," he cries, a sentiment that strikes a chord with many of us. This episode offers not just a retelling of this impactful story but also an invitation to see doubt as a natural part of faith. Through heartfelt reflections and biblical insights, I encourage you to seek strength in Jesus, especially during times of uncertainty. Join me as we explore how to navigate the complexities of faith and find solace in knowing that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.Support the Show.The American Soul Podcasthttps://www.buzzsprout.com/1791934/subscribe

“Now in the fifteenth year of the reign of Tiberius Caesar, when Pontius Pilate was governor of Judea, and Herod was tetrarch of Galilee, and his brother Philip was tetrarch of the region of Ituraea and Trachonitis, and Lysanias was tetrarch of Abilene, in the high priesthood of Annas and Caiaphas, the word of God came to John, the son of Zacharias, in the wilderness. And he came into all the district around the Jordan, preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins; as it is written in the book of the words of Isaiah the prophet, “The voice of one crying in the wilderness, ‘Make ready the way of the Lord, Make His paths straight. Every ravine will be filled, And every mountain and hill will be brought low; The crooked will become straight, And the rough roads smooth; And all flesh will see the salvation of God.’ ” So he began saying to the crowds who were going out to be baptized by him, “You brood of vipers, who warned you to flee from the wrath to come? Therefore bear fruits in keeping with repentance, and do not begin to say to yourselves, ‘We have Abraham for our father,’ for I say to you that from these stones God is able to raise up children to Abraham. Indeed the axe is already laid at the root of the trees; so every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire.””‭‭—Luke‬ ‭3‬:‭1‬-‭9‬ ‭Support the Show.The American Soul Podcasthttps://www.buzzsprout.com/1791934/subscribe

As we gather around the warmth of shared stories and prayers, I'm filled with an immense sense of gratitude for the love and support our American Soul Podcast community has shown. From the serene updates of life on the homestead to the deep reverence of our spiritual musings, this episode is a heartfelt journey through the sanctity of marriage and the unwavering commitment to faith. We walk through the importance of keeping our relationships - with our spouses and with God - not merely as afterthoughts, but as central figures in our daily lives, exploring the mutual nourishment needed to keep these sacred bonds flourishing.In a world that often feels adrift, we anchor ourselves in the pursuit of grace and mercy, guided by the teachings of Jesus Christ. The episode isn't just a conversation; it's a contemplative voyage aimed at personal transformation, seeking to etch divine virtues onto the very fabric of our hearts. We talk about living a life that echoes with humility, patience, and contentment, and we invite the Holy Spirit to cultivate these within us. As we reflect on the profound truths of our existence and the eternity that awaits, our prayers transcend beyond personal hopes, extending to our leaders, those in distress, and the universal quest for peace under God's ever-watchful eye.Support the Show.The American Soul Podcasthttps://www.buzzsprout.com/1791934/subscribe

As we navigate the intertwining paths of personal faith and collective responsibility, I, Jesse Cope, invite you to a profound exploration of the spiritual bedrock that guides us. From the intimacy of prayer and scripture to the seismic effects of our parenting choices and the moral compass that steers our nation, this episode promises to leave you with a richer understanding of your role in shaping a future grounded in repentance and righteousness. We'll grapple with the weighty consequences of decisions that echo through eternity and the gentle, yet unwavering hand of God that guides us back to Him.Join me in a heartfelt conversation that transcends the podcast medium, becoming a shared moment of reflection on the state of our souls and society. With no guest beside me, but the spirit of unity among us, I offer a prayer for blessings and guidance, hoping to ignite a spiritual awakening akin to those led by historic religious figures. As we consider the power of faith to transform our lives, families, and nation, I urge leaders of church and state alike to champion this cause, uniting us all in pursuit of a better, more faithful society. Let's embrace this journey together, with hope for the abundant blessings that await. God bless each one of you seeking to enrich your life and our community.Support the Show.The American Soul Podcasthttps://www.buzzsprout.com/1791934/subscribe

“And there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon; and this man was righteous and devout, looking for the consolation of Israel; and the Holy Spirit was upon him. And it had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Christ. And he came in the Spirit into the temple; and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to carry out for Him the custom of the Law, then he took Him into his arms, and blessed God, and said, “Now Lord, You are releasing Your bond-servant to depart in peace, According to Your word; For my eyes have seen Your salvation, Which You have prepared in the presence of all peoples, A Light of revelation to the Gentiles, And the glory of Your people Israel.” And His father and mother were amazed at the things which were being said about Him. And Simeon blessed them and said to Mary His mother, “Behold, this Child is appointed for the fall and rise of many in Israel, and for a sign to be opposed— and a sword will pierce even your own soul—to the end that thoughts from many hearts may be revealed.” And there was a prophetess, Anna the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was advanced in years and had lived with her husband seven years after her marriage, and then as a widow to the age of eighty-four. She never left the temple, serving night and day with fastings and prayers. At that very moment she came up and began giving thanks to God, and continued to speak of Him to all those who were looking for the redemption of Jerusalem.”‭‭—Luke‬ ‭2‬:‭25‬-‭38‬ ‭Support the Show.The American Soul Podcasthttps://www.buzzsprout.com/1791934/subscribe

“Now in those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus, that a census be taken of all the inhabited earth. This was the first census taken while Quirinius was governor of Syria. And everyone was on his way to register for the census, each to his own city. Joseph also went up from Galilee, from the city of Nazareth, to Judea, to the city of David which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and family of David, in order to register along with Mary, who was engaged to him, and was with child. While they were there, the days were completed for her to give birth. And she gave birth to her firstborn son; and she wrapped Him in cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn. In the same region there were some shepherds staying out in the fields and keeping watch over their flock by night. And an angel of the Lord suddenly stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them; and they were terribly frightened. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of great joy which will be for all the people; for today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. This will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” And suddenly there appeared with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace among men with whom He is pleased.””‭‭—Luke‬ ‭2‬:‭1‬-‭14‬ ‭Support the Show.The American Soul Podcasthttps://www.buzzsprout.com/1791934/subscribe

Embark with me, Jesse Koch, on a soul-stirring adventure through the landscape of life's greatest commitments—faith and marriage. Amid the relentless pace of our days, I share the transformative practice of making time for scripture and reflection, tailored to harmonize with the rhythm of your life. We then wade into the holy waters of matrimony, revealing the impact of divine guidance on our most cherished partnership. It's a heartfelt call to not just skim through the comfortable parts of our beliefs, but to fully grasp the truth in its entirety, including the teachings on marriage and devotion that challenge us to grow.As we navigate the roles of husband and wife against the backdrop of 1 Corinthians Chapter 7, I open up about the spiritual nourishment drawn from respect, submission, and the intimate tapestry of a marital relationship. We'll weave in reflections from C.S. Lewis and the earnest prayers from George Washington's journal to anchor our understanding in the Christian bedrock our nation was founded upon. And in a candid revelation, I share the twists in my own journey of understanding God's will, inviting you to find solace and strength in the collective pursuit of a faith-filled life.Support the Show.The American Soul Podcasthttps://www.buzzsprout.com/1791934/subscribe

As I sit here on the homestead, with the ducks reveling in the rain, I can't help but feel a deep connection to the spiritual roots that have long anchored us. Join me, Jesse Cope, as we journey through an episode rich with spiritual reflections, where I share a slice of life on the farm and the resilient lessons nature imparts. We'll also delve into the sacredness of our day-to-day, finding solace in prayer and scripture, and considering the parallels between our divine relationship and the cherished bond of marriage. It's a conversation about the essence of prioritizing God and the Bible, and how, just like in a marriage, love and respect deepen with attention and commitment.Turning the pages back to the foundations of America, we reminisce on George Washington's legacy and the spiritual heritage that continues to shape our nation’s values and governance. I'll reflect on a prayer echoing the Lord's Prayer, a testament to the themes of divine guidance, forgiveness, and righteousness that run deep through our history. As we navigate the evolving perspectives on faith within today's education system, I offer a blessing for our families, marriages, and country, inviting you to join me in upholding these enduring principles that form the bedrock of our great nation.Support the Show.The American Soul Podcasthttps://www.buzzsprout.com/1791934/subscribe

“Now the time had come for Elizabeth to give birth, and she gave birth to a son. Her neighbors and her relatives heard that the Lord had displayed His great mercy toward her; and they were rejoicing with her. And it happened that on the eighth day they came to circumcise the child, and they were going to call him Zacharias, after his father. But his mother answered and said, “No indeed; but he shall be called John.” And they said to her, “There is no one among your relatives who is called by that name.” And they made signs to his father, as to what he wanted him called. And he asked for a tablet and wrote as follows, “His name is John.” And they were all astonished. And at once his mouth was opened and his tongue loosed, and he began to speak in praise of God. Fear came on all those living around them; and all these matters were being talked about in all the hill country of Judea. All who heard them kept them in mind, saying, “What then will this child turn out to be?” For the hand of the Lord was certainly with him.”‭‭—Luke‬ ‭1‬:‭57‬-‭66‬ Support the Show.The American Soul Podcasthttps://www.buzzsprout.com/1791934/subscribe

Welcome to a space where hearts align and gratitude flourishes. I'm Jesse Cope, and I invite you to join me in a special episode where we celebrate the simple pleasures of life, like the surprise of blueberries springing forth in my garden. Together, we embark on a prayerful journey, delving into the essence of historical authenticity with a critical yet respectful examination of figures like George Washington. Uncover the layers beneath the quotes we've held dear, and join me in a discussion about the diligence required in the digital age to separate fact from fiction.As the sun sets and we offer our evening prayers, I share with you the strength found in acknowledging our flaws and the transformative power of forgiveness through Jesus Christ. This episode is a candid confession of my own struggles, and an invitation to collectively pray for our nation's future. We'll explore the profound impact of divine mercy and how our faith is fortified by Christ's ultimate sacrifice. Wrapping up with blessings for families and marriages, this conversation promises to leave you with a renewed sense of hope for America and an eagerness for the enriching discussions that lie ahead.Support the Show.The American Soul Podcasthttps://www.buzzsprout.com/1791934/subscribe

“Now in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God to a city in Galilee called Nazareth, to a virgin engaged to a man whose name was Joseph, of the descendants of David; and the virgin’s name was Mary. And coming in, he said to her, “Greetings, favored one! The Lord is with you.” But she was very perplexed at this statement, and kept pondering what kind of salutation this was. The angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary; for you have found favor with God. And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall name Him Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David; and He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and His kingdom will have no end.” Mary said to the angel, “How can this be, since I am a virgin?” The angel answered and said to her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; and for that reason the holy Child shall be called the Son of God. And behold, even your relative Elizabeth has also conceived a son in her old age; and she who was called barren is now in her sixth month. For nothing will be impossible with God.” And Mary said, “Behold, the bondslave of the Lord; may it be done to me according to your word.” And the angel departed from her.”‭‭—Luke‬ ‭1‬:‭26‬-‭38‬ ‭Support the Show.The American Soul Podcasthttps://www.buzzsprout.com/1791934/subscribe

As I gaze upon the changing seasons and witness the rebirth of nature on our homestead, it's impossible not to see the parallels in our nation's journey, fueled by faith and prayer. This episode is a special one, where I, Jesse Cope, open my heart about the intimate role of prayer and scripture in not only guiding our forefathers like George Washington but also in enriching our lives today. I'll take you through a prayer for our leaders and nations, and share the vital need to carve out sacred solitude for reflection and connection with God, just as Washington did amidst the revolution. Marriage, a divine bond, deserves more than just maintenance; it thrives on those small acts of love and understanding, mirroring the spiritual union of Christ and the church. Let's explore together how these acts can transform your own relationships into something profound.Moving from our private lives into the public sphere, the conversation turns to Christian values in education. It is here where I contend that the moral foundation of a nation stands strong when rooted in the teachings of Jesus Christ. Reflecting on George Washington's reliance on prayer during the trials at Valley Forge, I highlight how his faith not only shaped his leadership but also the tapestry of American identity. I then confront the modern educational landscape, which often neglects to pass on the rich heritage of our founding principles. Looking ahead, we will delve further into the prayers of Washington, cementing the influence of such spiritual devotion on governance and society. Join me as we unravel these historical threads to better weave them into the fabric of today's America.Support the Show.The American Soul Podcasthttps://www.buzzsprout.com/1791934/subscribe

“Inasmuch as many have undertaken to compile an account of the things accomplished among us, just as they were handed down to us by those who from the beginning were eyewitnesses and servants of the word, it seemed fitting for me as well, having investigated everything carefully from the beginning, to write it out for you in consecutive order, most excellent Theophilus; so that you may know the exact truth about the things you have been taught. In the days of Herod, king of Judea, there was a priest named Zacharias, of the division of Abijah; and he had a wife from the daughters of Aaron, and her name was Elizabeth. They were both righteous in the sight of God, walking blamelessly in all the commandments and requirements of the Lord. But they had no child, because Elizabeth was barren, and they were both advanced in years. Now it happened that while he was performing his priestly service before God in the appointed order of his division, according to the custom of the priestly office, he was chosen by lot to enter the temple of the Lord and burn incense. And the whole multitude of the people were in prayer outside at the hour of the incense offering. And an angel of the Lord appeared to him, standing to the right of the altar of incense. Zacharias was troubled when he saw the angel, and fear gripped him. But the angel said to him, “Do not be afraid, Zacharias, for your petition has been heard, and your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you will give him the name John. You will have joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth.”—‭‭Luke‬ ‭1‬:‭1‬-‭14‬ ‭Support the Show.The American Soul Podcasthttps://www.buzzsprout.com/1791934/subscribe

As the sun sets over my homestead and I reflect on the day's toils, I'm struck by the parallels to our nation's foundations—deeply rooted in faith and the pursuit of a life well-lived. Join me, Jesse Cope, as I share a slice of life from the homestead and embark on a journey through the spiritual landscape that shaped America. We'll revisit George Washington's inaugural speech and dig into his personal prayer book, shedding light on the profound Christian faith that guided our Founding Fathers and their vision for our country.In this heartfelt discussion, we won't just examine history; we'll explore the myriad paths of belief that span from trusting in God and Jesus Christ to the faith we place in our institutions and ourselves. As we delve into the pages of Washington's prayer book, expect to uncover a more intimate portrait of a man whose faith ran deeper than public perception might suggest. Together, we'll extend blessings to educators, families, and all who seek a life anchored in something greater than themselves—inviting you to find solace and strength in placing faith where it truly belongs.Support the Show.The American Soul Podcasthttps://www.buzzsprout.com/1791934/subscribe

“Now after the Sabbath, as it began to dawn toward the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary came to look at the grave. And behold, a severe earthquake had occurred, for an angel of the Lord descended from heaven and came and rolled away the stone and sat upon it. And his appearance was like lightning, and his clothing as white as snow. The guards shook for fear of him and became like dead men. The angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid; for I know that you are looking for Jesus who has been crucified. He is not here, for He has risen, just as He said. Come, see the place where He was lying. Go quickly and tell His disciples that He has risen from the dead; and behold, He is going ahead of you into Galilee, there you will see Him; behold, I have told you.” And they left the tomb quickly with fear and great joy and ran to report it to His disciples. And behold, Jesus met them and greeted them. And they came up and took hold of His feet and worshiped Him. Then Jesus *said to them, “Do not be afraid; go and take word to My brethren to leave for Galilee, and there they will see Me.””‭‭—Matthew‬ ‭28‬:‭1‬-‭10‬ Support the Show.The American Soul Podcasthttps://www.buzzsprout.com/1791934/subscribe