Raising Expectations with Pastor Joe Schofield

BBS Radio, BBS Network Inc.

Raising Expectations is a program that looks at the past, giving greater insight into the present, and may produce authentic anticipation, raising expectations for the future! Joe will discuss major issues that confront us on national, political, and worldwide events, to the simple things that we think about and make unconscious personal decisions every day! Freedom, Family, Finances, Faith, along with a myriad of other topics and all the intricacies involved in each of them...from a personal community perspective, that makes up what we call "Your Life in America Today!" Informative, inclusive, intentional, interesting, and always encouraging. Each program will raise our expectations individually. We may begin looking at the future in a positive way, happy to try new ideas and methods with clear hopes of how things can change for the better in the future. Feeling more content, one topic at a time! So, let not your hearts be troubled...we can go from good, to better, to best in the future TOGETHER

  1. VOR 4 TAGEN

    Raising Expectations, April 20, 2026

    Raising Expectations with Pastor Joe Schofield, Dr. Paul Hall, Stefanie Thayer, Dr. Craig Thayer, Pastor Ron Greer The Battle for America’s Soul Guest, Denice Gary-Pandol Friends, On Raising Expectations Monday Night we have long time friend, Denice Gary-Pandol former California US Senatorial candidate with us. Clearly one of the most knowledgeable and wise leaders in California, United States and world politics today is our dear friend and former California Senatorial Candidate Denice Gary-Pandol! She will bring us poignant and much needed information under the title “The Battle for America’s Soul: How We, the People, Win in 2026 by Restoring the Light and the Glory!” As a women of great Faith , intense research, conservative political experience and clear understanding of our national constitution…we are in for a very special and enlightening evening with Denice Gary-Pandol! Mark your calendar as always for your Monday nights on “Raising Expectations!” Let’s all be a part of “Restoring the Light and Glory!” This episode of Raising Expectations features host Joe Schofield and guest Denise Gary Pandol discussing the spiritual and biblical foundations of the United States. The conversation centers on reclaiming American identity through faith, understanding the original intent of the founding documents, and mobilizing conservative action ahead of the 2026 elections. The Spiritual Foundation of "Raising Expectations" The program opens with a reflection on the role of faith in navigating life’s decisions. Host Joe Schofield emphasizes that "Raising Expectations" is rooted in the belief that God has specific plans for every individual, as outlined in the book of Ephesians. The team, comprising pastors, counselors, and theologians from across the nation, posits that true peace and "authentic hope" are anchored in a relationship with Jesus Christ, rather than worldly circumstances. The Biblical Roots of American Liberty Guest Denise Gary Pandol discusses the upcoming 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, arguing that the "soul of America" is inextricably linked to the Hebrew Bible. Citing John Adams, she describes the signing of the Declaration as a "day of deliverance" comparable to the Israelites' exodus from Egypt. The founding fathers, many of whom were deeply steeped in scripture and even studied Hebrew, viewed unalienable rights—life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness—as divine endowments rather than state-granted privileges. This "natural law" tradition remains the bedrock of Western jurisprudence. Legislative Challenges and Cultural Identity A significant portion of the discussion addresses California Bill AB 2017, which proposes making certain Muslim religious holidays legal state holidays. Pandol opposes this bill, arguing that it shows partiality toward an ideology that she claims does not share the Judeo-Christian values of equality and freedom of speech. She suggests that such legislation sets a dangerous precedent and moves the country away from its historical roots. Furthermore, she expresses concern over the lack of "classical education" and civics in modern schools, noting that many students are no longer taught the Pledge of Allegiance or the significance of the Ten Commandments. Economic Prosperity and National Security Looking toward the 2026 midterms, the speakers outline key "talking points" for conservative voters. These include the benefits of the Trump-era tax cuts, which provided relief for seniors and small businesses, and the achievement of energy independence. Pandol argues that "energy dominance" via clean American oil and gas is the solution to high food prices and inflation. Additionally, the conversation touches on national security, emphasizing the need for strict border enforcement to prevent the entry of individuals with ties to foreign cartels or terrorist organizations. The episode concludes with a call for Americans to "stand tall" and remain proud of their unique heritage. By returning to the foundational principles of faith and limited government, the speakers believe the nation can overcome its current "battle for the soul" and secure a prosperous future for the next generation.

    1 Std. 18 Min.

  2. 14. APR.

    Raising Expectations, April 13, 2026

    Raising Expectations with Pastor Joe Schofield, Dr. Paul Hall, Stefanie Thayer, Dr. Craig Thayer, Pastor Ron Greer Reclaiming California, Faith, Policy, and the Path to Prosperity Guest, Elizabeth Wong Ahlers Friends, We are anxious and very happy to have our dear friends Elizabeth Wong Ahlers and her husband Ron with us again this week!  She is making a major “victory headed impact”, continuing a leadership role in statewide “Comeback California” for State Assembly District 40! Elizabeth’s values, wisdom, family and faith are game changers for every problem we face in the former Golden State- California! We all know that her insights and ideas are also exactly what America needs to hear! Elizabeth’s heartfelt message will encourage and strengthen everyone in all 50 states and around the world…as we “watch God at work” in the coming months! In this episode of Raising Expectations, host Pastor Joe Schofield welcomes Elizabeth Wong Ahlers, a candidate for California’s 40th Assembly District. The discussion explores the intersection of Christian faith and urgent political reform, focusing on reversing California's current trajectory regarding energy costs, public safety, and the business climate. A Foundation of Faith and Leadership The program opens by introducing the "Raising Expectations" team, a group of leaders across various fields united by their Christian faith. Pastor Joe emphasizes that the show aims to provide intuitive and encouraging insights into the decisions facing Americans today. The team introduces Elizabeth Wong Ahlers as a "classic California mama bear" and a fifth-generation Californian who transitioned from a career in academia to homeschooling her six children and serving as a councilwoman. Her campaign is presented not merely as a political endeavor but as a spiritual battle for the future of the next generation, rooted in the belief that government should manifest the goodness of God through practical principles. Energy Crisis and the "California Cocktail" A significant portion of the dialogue centers on California’s energy policies and the high cost of living. Elizabeth and her husband, Ron, critique the state’s "gas tax," which adds approximately $1.60 in fees to every gallon. They argue that while California was once a leading oil producer, regulatory bodies like the California Coastal Commission and the California Air Resources Board (CARB) have "choked off" domestic production. This has forced the state to import oil from foreign countries, ironically increasing the carbon footprint due to shipping. Furthermore, the discussion highlights the "California cocktail"—a unique environmental blend of gasoline that prevents the state from importing cheaper fuel from neighboring states during crises. Restoring Public Safety and Law & Order The team addresses the rise of "smash and grab" robberies, attributing them to Proposition 47, which reclassified many thefts under as misdemeanors. Elizabeth advocates for the full funding and implementation of Proposition 36 to restore consequences for repeat offenders. The conversation takes a critical look at the state′s prison system; while it costs roughly 132,000 annually to incarcerate a single person in California, the team argues that the economic impact of crime—estimated at 60 to 70 billion—is far more damaging. They express concern over the Governor's decision to close prisons while crime remains a primary concern for families and businesses. The Exodus of Innovation and Agriculture The "mismanagement" of the state has led to a notable exodus of iconic companies, including Tesla, Chevron, and Hewlett-Packard. Even In-N-Out Burger has shifted its headquarters focus to Nashville due to the business climate. Beyond the corporate world, the discussion touches on the Central Valley, described as the "breadbasket of the world." The team laments the diversion of water away from orchards to protect the "smelt fish," which they argue has devastated conservative farming communities and turned once-lush lands into dust. Elizabeth calls for a return to "common sense" management of these basic resources to unleash California's creative and innovative potential. Call to Action for District 40 Elizabeth highlights that District 40 (North San Fernando Valley and Santa Clarita) is one of the most targeted seats in the state for a political flip. She emphasizes that the 2022 election was lost by only 522 votes, making every new voter critical. The episode concludes with a spiritual exhortation to "not grow weary in doing good," urging the community to stay, be a light, and pray for the prosperity of the city. The discussion underscores a pivotal moment for California, where the "Raising Expectations" team believes that a combination of faith-led leadership and common-sense policy can reclaim the state's beauty and prosperity. By addressing the "sinister" mismanagement of resources and public safety, Elizabeth Wong Ahlers aims to offer a future of hope and growth for District 40 and the state at large.

    1 Std. 20 Min.

  3. 7. APR.

    Raising Expectations, April 6, 2026

    Raising Expectations with Pastor Joe Schofield, Dr. Paul Hall, Stefanie Thayer, Dr. Craig Thayer, Pastor Ron Greer Guests, Dr. Pamela and Scott Pyle on The Christian Church Retreat from American Politics Friends, We are all looking forward to having Dr. Pamela and Scott Pyle back with us this week! As part of our RE family, they are such a blessing to everyone! We are going to have a discussion concerning the “secret agenda of the enemy” and the “good news we can share!” Insights, encouragement and assurance will flow from hearing about God’s faithfulness and powerful presence in our lives as we hear from Dr. Pamela and Scott! Join us and tune in with friends to listen and watch- God has encouragement and a blessing just for you! On this episode of Raising Expectations, you'll find a profound discussion featuring guests Scott and Pamela Pyle. The conversation centers on the urgent need for the Christian Church to re-engage with American politics, governance, and holistic health to counter systemic "engines of harm" and restore the nation's foundational values. The Conflict of Systems: Engines of Harm vs. Good The discussion identifies a systemic "engine of harm" built over decades by specific billionaires and political actors who have weaponized the U.S. Treasury and institutions like education. Scott Pyle highlights how approximately $14 trillion in debt was pushed through this engine to redistribute tax dollars and buy out cultural institutions. Furthermore, USAID funds were allegedly perverted to pressure developing nations into adopting extreme leftist ideologies. In response, the group advocates for an "engine of good," where aligned faith organizations utilize federal and private grants to promote human flourishing and the "two hands of the Gospel"—combining compassionate acts with the spoken Word. Historical Decline and the Church's Retreat The participants trace the current state of the U.S. government back to the Woodrow Wilson era, specifically the 17th Amendment, which they argue weakened the states' ability to check federal power. They contend that the Church's retreat from the public square—surrendering the care of widows and orphans to the government in the mid-20th century—created a vacuum filled by secular and Marxist ideologies. Ron Grier notes that the Church has become "biblically illiterate," allowing counterfeit rhetoric to infiltrate seminaries and pulpits, leading to a generation of believers who are hesitant to vote or speak on social issues. Leadership, Health, and National Security Despite the critiques, the guests express optimism regarding the presence of "deeply faithful believers" within the current administration's cabinet. The conversation shifts to holistic health as a national security issue, highlighting the mission of figures like RFK Jr. (referred to as Secretary Kennedy in context) to combat chemical dependency, protect sustainable farming, and ensure food security for children. The group views these efforts as a manifestation of God’s created order, requiring the Church to support leaders who prioritize the physical and spiritual well-being of the next generation. The Call to Awakening Drawing parallels to The Great Awakening led by George Whitefield, Pastor Joe emphasizes that national change begins with a change of heart. The team urges Christians to move beyond "three-point Sunday sermons" and live out their faith throughout the week. They advocate for biblical voting—putting personality aside to support principles—and maintaining unity among believers to ensure that America remains a beacon of hope for the world. The message is clear: the Church must wake up and reclaim its rightful place in the community and the state. By combining fervent prayer with active civic participation and a commitment to holistic health, believers can ensure that the "Great Awakening" continues to shape the future of America.

    57 Min.

  4. 31. MÄRZ

    Raising Expectations, March 30, 2026

    Raising Expectations with Pastor Joe Schofield, Dr. Paul Hall, Stefanie Thayer, Dr. Craig Thayer, Pastor Ron Greer Guest, Elizabeth Wong Ahlers and her plan for a Comeback California Friends, We are excited to have our dear friend Elizabeth Wong Ahlers with us again this week, as she continues “Comeback California” running for State Assembly District 40! Her values, wisdom, family and faith are game changers for every problem we face in the former Golden State- California! Her insights and ideas will encourage and strengthen everyone in all 50 states and around the world ,as we watch God at work in the coming months! Please consider supporting Elizabeth and her journey to help retake California at her website: https://elizabeth4assembly.com/ Pastor Joe Schofield hosts a deep-dive session of Raising Expectations, featuring California State Assembly candidate Elizabeth Wong Ahlers. The discussion explores the intersection of conservative governance, spiritual resilience, and the urgent need for "righteous leadership" to address California's systemic challenges. The "Raising Expectations" Mission and Team The program serves as a platform for conservative believers to discuss personal, professional, and corporate decisions through the lens of faith. Host Pastor Joe Schofield is supported by a diverse team, including Dr. Paul Hall, Dr. Craig and Stephanie Thayer, and Pastor Ron Greer. The team emphasizes "finding God in the ordinary" and producing "authentic hope" through trust in Christ, a theme echoed in the various books authored by the hosts, such as Saved and Legitimate Faith. Reclaiming the Golden State: The Ahlers Platform Elizabeth Wong Ahlers, a fifth-generation Californian and mother of six, is running for the State Assembly in District 40 (Santa Clarita area). Her campaign is built on the "Mama Bear" instinct—a response to what she describes as a failing educational system, sky-high gas prices, and exploding homelessness. She argues that the current "one-party rule" has led to unsafe streets and a mass exodus of businesses, and she advocates for a return to innovation, opportunity, and freedom. Political Integrity and "Fake Republicans" A significant portion of the dialogue focuses on the internal friction within the Republican party. Ahlers criticizes candidates who have recently switched from the Democratic party but do not uphold conservative platform values, such as standing for the national anthem. She specifically points to an incumbent who reportedly missed 2,000 opportunities to vote "no" on harmful legislation, choosing instead to remain off the record to avoid political fallout. Ahlers asserts that her refusal to compromise on issues like Proposition 1 (abortion) has made her a target for the establishment, but she remains committed to her "conscience". Spiritual Warfare and the "Armor of God" The participants frame the political landscape as a manifestation of a spiritual battle. Drawing from Ephesians 6 and the Book of Daniel, they discuss the "demon princes" and "spiritual armies" that influence geographical areas. Dr. Paul Hall and Ron Greer use military analogies—such as being "over the target" when facing heavy fire—to encourage Ahlers. They emphasize that the "Armor of God" only protects the front, signifying that believers must continue marching forward by faith rather than retreating. Marriage and Family as the Campaign's Foundation Ahlers highlights her 36-year marriage to her husband, Ron, as the "culmination of their giftedness." She describes Ron as her "medic"—the strength and common sense that stabilizes her amidst political gunfire. She insists that her campaign team must respect this hierarchy, as any political victory that undermines the foundational unit of marriage would be a hollow one. This "complementary giftedness" allows them to navigate the "wicked and dark" areas of culture together. The episode concludes with a call to action for believers to disengage from "quietism" and actively participate in the political process. By standing firm in their worldview and refusing to compromise on core principles, the speakers believe they can inspire a "great California comeback" led by righteous leaders who represent the people's rejoicings rather than their groanings.

    56 Min.

  5. 17. MÄRZ

    Raising Expectations, March 16, 2026

    Raising Expectations with Pastor Joe Schofield, Dr. Paul Hall, Stefanie Thayer, Dr. Craig Thayer, Pastor Ron Greer Guest, Dr Jim Robbins - Geopolitical Shifts and the Future of Iran Dear Friends, This week on Raising Expectations we have Dr. Jim Robbins joining us again:   Join us for a special discussion with Dr. Jim Robbins of the Institute of World Politics in Washington DC. We will explore the issues and events surrounding the war with Iran, Washington politics, and the implications for the future under President Trump and his administration. Dr. Robbins, an outstanding historian and Dean of Academics at IWP, Senior Fellow in National Security Affairs at the American Foreign Policy Council, and former special assistant in the Office of the Secretary of Defense, will share his expertise and insights.    Jim is a great man of Faith and has a God given ability to not only understand questions but to discern the heart of the person asking! I am often reminded of the sensitivity of C.S. Lewis with Dr. Robbins.    Find out more about Dr. Jim work at his institute's website: www.iwp.edu In this episode of Raising Expectations, host Joe Schofield and his team sit down with historian and academic dean Jim Robbins to discuss the shifting landscape of Middle East diplomacy, the strategic use of energy markets, and the ongoing challenges to American national security. The conversation highlights the potential for a "new world" in the Middle East through regime pressure and economic leverage. Strategic Perspectives on the Middle East The discussion centers on four critical issues currently facing the administration in the Middle East: the ongoing conflict with Iran, the stabilization of oil markets, the pursuit of the Abraham Accords for regional normalization, and the long-term redevelopment of Gaza. Jim Robbins emphasizes that the primary goal is to return to a period where Iran acts as a strategic partner rather than an adversary, noting that before the 1979 revolution, Iran maintained strong ties with both the United States and Israel. The current strategy involves maintaining pressure to eventually defund regional proxies like Hezbollah and Hamas, which rely heavily on Iranian oil revenue. Economic Leverage and Global Security A significant portion of the dialogue focuses on the "drill, baby, drill" energy policy as a tool for national security. Robbins argues that lowering oil prices serves a dual purpose: it eases domestic inflation for American consumers and simultaneously cripples the Iranian economy. Historical data suggests that when oil prices drop toward $52 per barrel or lower, the Iranian regime loses its ability to fund its nuclear program and global terrorism. Furthermore, the participants discuss the internal "crisis of legitimacy" in Iran, where a younger, digital-native population increasingly rejects theocratic control in favor of Western-style freedoms and prosperity. Regarding domestic safety, the panel expresses concern over "lone actor" terrorist threats. Robbins notes that while the administration has been successful in targeting high-level leadership abroad—disrupting their ability to coordinate large-scale attacks—the presence of unvetted individuals within the U.S. remains a high-risk factor. The conversation also touches on a new "War on Fraud" initiative aimed at uncovering the destination of approximately $2 trillion in funds dispersed during the COVID-19 era. The episode concludes with a call for national resilience and strategic patience. By combining economic pressure through energy markets with a firm stance on border security and domestic oversight, the speakers envision a future where both American interests and Middle Eastern stability are significantly enhanced.

    53 Min.

  6. 10. MÄRZ

    Raising Expectations, March 9, 2026

    Raising Expectations with Pastor Joe Schofield, Dr. Paul Hall, Stefanie Thayer, Dr. Craig Thayer, Pastor Ron Greer Guest, Dr Sheila Schuller Coleman - Empowering the Next Generation and the Legacy of Faith Dear Friends, We are looking forward to having our friend Dr. Sheila Schuller Coleman back with us this week to, in her own words “share my current Divine assignment!” We will see how this call of God has produced a deep understanding and revealing of special resources on how we can help strengthen and grow the children in these dangerous days! You will not only hear her words but will also feel her heart and insights as you watch, listen and join us! In this episode of Raising Expectations, host Joe Schofield welcomes Dr. Sheila Coleman to discuss her transition from a legacy of ministry to a personal, divine mandate. The conversation centers on the "Heart of a Warrior" movement, an initiative dedicated to protecting children globally through prayer, reclaiming their identity in Christ, and providing tangible support to vulnerable communities. The Legacy of Faith and the Power of Divine Choice Dr. Sheila Coleman reflects on the humble beginnings of her father, the late pastor of the Crystal Cathedral, who rose from a poor farm in Iowa to reach 20 million people weekly. She emphasizes that God’s choice of her father—and His choice of every individual—is not based on education or platform, but on a "divine destiny" tailored for "such a time as this." This legacy serves as a foundation for her belief that no one should place limitations on what God can achieve through them, regardless of their age or perceived lack of influence. The "Heart of a Warrior" Mandate In June 2022, Dr. Coleman received what she describes as a "chicken vision," where the Lord assigned her to protect the "bride" (the church) under one wing and the "children of the world" under the other. This led to the rapid writing of The Heart of a Warrior: Delivering the Children of the World for Christ. The book addresses specific "attacks" on the next generation, including the alarming tripling of suicide rates among young teens and the loss of safety in schools and the womb. Her ministry now focuses on "covering" these children through a dedicated "Pentagon" of prayer warriors. Global Outreach and Tangible Miracles The ministry extends beyond prayer into practical action, such as the "Sheep Ministry" in Kenya. After being prompted by God to provide livestock to a poor village, Dr. Coleman partnered with Storm Shelter Ministries to provide sheep (costing $50 each) to widows and orphans, allowing them to become self-sufficient. Domestically, she shares the "miracle" of her own family—spontaneous triplets born healthy at 35 weeks despite medical risks—as a testament to God’s faithfulness and the power of declaring life over the unborn. Reclaiming Identity and Biblical Wisdom A core theme of Dr. Coleman’s recent work is the restoration of identity. Through her handbook, Claiming the Identity of Christ’s Children, she encourages parents and grandparents to speak blessings over children, teaching them to declare, "I am the beloved child of the Most High God." Furthermore, she addresses the current educational crisis and the rise of antisemitism on campuses, arguing that the world is suffering from a lack of "wisdom"—the application of knowledge through a godly lens. The episode concludes with a powerful reminder that "greater is He that is in you than he that is in the world." Dr. Sheila Coleman’s journey emphasizes that the most significant work often begins with a simple "yes" to a divine assignment, leading to a global impact that protects the most vulnerable and restores the identity of the next generation. Don't forget to check out our guest, Dr. Coleman's books! "The Heart of a Warrior: Delivering the Children of the World for Christ" "The Living Tree" "Unearthing the Lost Treasure: Wisdom" "Claiming The Identity of Christ’s Children: A Handbook for Families"

    55 Min.

  7. 3. MÄRZ

    Raising Expectations, March 2, 2026

    Raising Expectations with Pastor Joe Schofield, Dr. Paul Hall, Stefanie Thayer, Dr. Craig Thayer, Pastor Ron Greer Guest, Dr Sheila Schuller Coleman - Limitless Faith and the Possibility Thinking Friends, We are delighted to have Dr. Sheila Schuller Coleman as our guest to share her testimony and ministry! She is the first born child of Robert H. Schuller. As such, she had a front row seat to watching God move in her father’s life. She served as assistant producer of the Hour of Power and also as his senior editor for more than 12 of his manuscripts, including “Tough Times Never Last but Tough People Do”, and “The Be Happy Attitudes”. In addition, Sheila has 16 years of experience in education. She combines a love for children with a deep devotion to the church. Sheila holds a Doctorate in Education from UCI and has authored several books, including “Unearthing the Lost Treasure: Wisdom”, which features an endorsement by Dr. Ben Carson. And her latest, “Claiming the Identity of Christ’s Children. A Handbook for Families”. Today, she serves as the Founder and Lead Pastor of Hope Center of Christ in Orange, California. It is a house of prayer, the spiritual pentagon for the international prayer movement, Heart of a Warrior: Delivering the Children of the World for Christ. She actively partners with 15 ministries that are being an answer to the varied attacks on our children world-wide. This episode of Raising Expectations features an inspiring dialogue with Dr. Sheila Schuller Coleman, daughter of the legendary Dr. Robert H. Schuller. The conversation explores the miraculous journey of the Schuller ministry—from an obscure Iowa farm to a global television platform—emphasizing the transformative power of "limitless faith" and the resilience required to navigate life's "bumpy roads." The "Raising Expectations" Mission and Team The program, hosted by Pastor Joe Schofield and his wife Melba, serves as a platform for leaders of all backgrounds to address life's most pressing questions through the lens of faith. The "extended family" of co-hosts includes Dr. Paul Hall, a counselor and writer; Dr. Craig "Tank" Thayer, a trauma surgeon and author of Saved: Finding God in the Ordinary; and Pastor Ron Greer, who works with Man In The Mirror to mentor men. The team emphasizes that faith in Christ provides answers to life's two biggest questions: how to live with purpose and what happens after death. From Iowa Pastures to the Drive-In Church Dr. Sheila Schuller Coleman shares the humble origins of her father, who was raised on a "dead-end dirt road" in Iowa. Despite not being an athlete or having significant resources, he felt a divine calling at age five, famously practicing his sermons for the cows in the pasture. Upon moving to California to plant a church, he found no established congregation and adopted a missionary mindset, knocking on doors to ask neighbors what they needed. This led to the innovative "drive-in church" at a theater snack bar, where the motto was "Come as you are in the family car," allowing people who felt uncomfortable in traditional settings to hear the Gospel from their vehicles. The Theology of the Seed and Limitless Faith A core theme of the discussion is the "theology of the seed," based on Matthew 17:20. Sheila recounts her father’s belief that while anyone can count the seeds in an apple, only God can count the apples in one seed. This perspective encourages believers to look past their "lack"—whether in health, resources, or education—and focus on a "limitless God." Sheila illustrates this faith through a childhood memory of her father taking her out into a terrifying Iowa thunderstorm to show her "God’s power on display," teaching her that faith is a gift required for the tasks God assigns. Global Expansion and the "Hour of Power" The ministry’s reach expanded exponentially following a suggestion from Billy Graham to put the church service on television. Graham even loaned his production team to help launch the Hour of Power. The program eventually broke historical barriers, becoming the first religious program broadcast in the communist USSR on Channel One Russia after a meeting between Dr. Schuller and Mikhail Gorbachev. This global impact was rooted in the elder Schuller’s refusal to be deterred by critics; he famously stated that he didn't care what other pastors said about him because they were already saved—his focus remained entirely on the unsaved. Navigating Adversity and Maintaining Hope The dialogue concludes with profound advice on handling trials. Using the "potato" analogy, Sheila explains that just as big potatoes rise to the top of a wagon on a bumpy road, challenges forge character and tenacity in those who refuse to quit. She also shares her grandfather’s wisdom: "Never cut a dead tree down in the wintertime." This serves as a metaphor for not making irreversible decisions during seasons of despair, as life often remains in the "stump" waiting for spring. The hosts and guest emphasize that hope is the last thing to lose, and God always has the "last word," which is ultimately good. The legacy of Dr. Robert H. Schuller, as recounted by his daughter, serves as a testament to the idea that no beginning is too small for a "limitless God." By embracing the "possibility thinking" that defined the Hour of Power, individuals can find the tenacity to grow through their trials rather than just go through them.

    57 Min.

  8. 24. FEB.

    Raising Expectations, February 23, 2026

    Raising Expectations with Pastor Joe Schofield, Dr. Paul Hall, Stefanie Thayer, Dr. Craig Thayer, Pastor Ron Greer Guest, Will Hobbs, The Faithfulness of God Friends, Join us this evening for an uplifting discussion with our dear friend, Pastor Will Hobbs, on 'Raising Expectations!' as he shares inspiring insights on 'The Faithfulness of God.' Amidst unfolding events in our nation and worldwide, let's stand firm in faith, trusting in God's unwavering presence, power, and faithfulness that shape our lives. His plans unfold with purpose, bringing glory to Him, guidance to us, and proof of His love. His presence will be felt, and encouragement will bring His peace that surpasses our understanding. John 14:27! Pastor Will and our ‘Raising Expectations’ team invite you to pray ahead, hear the facts, and ask God what your part is to be in His plans for your life and nation! This episode of Raising Expectations features a profound dialogue on the nature of divine faithfulness, exploring its manifestation through historical trials, global revivals, and personal resiliency. Host Joe Schofield and guest Pastor Will Hobbs, alongside a panel of co-hosts, examine how God’s consistent character provides a foundation for hope in a turbulent world. The Nature and Definition of Faithfulness The discussion defines God’s faithfulness not as a static concept, but as an active, consistent demonstration of His character and loyalty to His Word. Participants emphasize that while human circumstances are volatile—likened to withering grass and fading flowers—the Word of God remains an immutable anchor. Faith is described as a "verb" that requires demonstration, such as the repentance shown by the thief on the cross, which invites grace and mercy. This divine consistency ensures that God always delivers on His promises, whether they are unconditional expressions of love or conditional covenants requiring human obedience. Historical and Global Evidence of Divine Providence The panel shares extraordinary accounts of providence, notably the story of Edward Halbert, a WWII POW. After being aided by a Nazi guard who provided a knife for an emergency medical procedure in a camp, Halbert miraculously reunited with the same man—who had become a chiropractor in Houston—decades later. Furthermore, the discussion highlights a massive spiritual revival currently occurring in Iran. Despite severe persecution and Sharia law, an underground church movement, bolstered by Chinese believers, has reportedly seen millions of converts in recent years, demonstrating that spiritual growth often flourishes in the most restrictive environments. Resiliency and the Power of Testimony Drawing parallels to Victor Frankl’s Man’s Search for Meaning, the speakers discuss the "resiliency of humanity" as a reflection of being made in God's image. They argue that personal testimonies of overcoming hardship are the most effective tools for ministry, as they provide tangible proof of God’s presence to a "hurting and dying world." The act of worship is also recontextualized as a "fight position"—a spiritual strategy where glorifying God precedes the battle, as seen in the biblical accounts of Joshua and Exodus. The episode concludes with a powerful reminder that God’s faithfulness is multi-generational and transcends global crises. By recognizing the consistency of His character and the power of personal testimony, believers are encouraged to act as "salt and light," offering a message of hope and reconciliation to those navigating the complexities of modern life.

    54 Min.
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Raising Expectations is a program that looks at the past, giving greater insight into the present, and may produce authentic anticipation, raising expectations for the future! Joe will discuss major issues that confront us on national, political, and worldwide events, to the simple things that we think about and make unconscious personal decisions every day! Freedom, Family, Finances, Faith, along with a myriad of other topics and all the intricacies involved in each of them...from a personal community perspective, that makes up what we call "Your Life in America Today!" Informative, inclusive, intentional, interesting, and always encouraging. Each program will raise our expectations individually. We may begin looking at the future in a positive way, happy to try new ideas and methods with clear hopes of how things can change for the better in the future. Feeling more content, one topic at a time! So, let not your hearts be troubled...we can go from good, to better, to best in the future TOGETHER

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