Walking Close, Living Changed

Brian Opbroek
  • 5.0 (9)
  • Religion
  • Updated Weekly

Real-life transformation begins with God's presence. This podcast invites you to walk closely with God and be changed from the inside out.

  1. Episode 18: God Can Say The Craziest Things

    3d ago

    Episode 18: God Can Say The Craziest Things

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

    35 min
  2. Episode 17: Divine Interruptions

    May 26

    Episode 17: Divine Interruptions

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

    37 min
  3. Episode 16: Don't Be Mean To Your Donkey

    May 19

    Episode 16: Don't Be Mean To Your Donkey

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

    36 min
  4. Episode 15: Joy—Take It However It Comes

    May 12

    Episode 15: Joy—Take It However It Comes

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

    44 min
  5. Episode 14: What Are You Missing, and How Bad Do You Want It?

    May 5

    Episode 14: What Are You Missing, and How Bad Do You Want It?

    In this episode of Walking Close, Living Changed, Brian Opbroek explores what it means to feel like something is missing in life and how to find it. Reflecting on the milestone of reaching episode 14, he shares that while people are called to be whole, many still experience areas that feel incomplete. Using the parable of the lost coin from Bible (Luke 15), Brian turns the story into a practical guide for personal growth. He emphasizes that the coin had great value, which is why the woman searched urgently—leading to a key question: what are you missing, and how badly do you want it? He breaks down her actions into simple steps: "lighting a lamp" represents gaining clarity and seeking truth, while "sweeping the house" symbolizes removing distractions that may be hiding what you're looking for. Brian also highlights the importance of persistence—pointing out that many people stop too soon, while real progress requires continuing until results show up. He closes by encouraging listeners to pursue what's missing with intention, discipline, and consistency, and to celebrate the wins when they come.   Key Topics Discussed Feeling whole while still sensing something is missing The lost coin parable as a model for finding what's lost The importance of wanting something enough to pursue it Gaining clarity to see what needs to change Removing distractions that hold you back Staying persistent and not quitting too soon Recognizing how close you may be to a breakthrough Celebrating wins and progress along the way   Relevant Scriptures Luke 15:8–10 The foundation of the episode—illustrates the value of what is lost and the joy of finding it. Matthew 7:7–8 Encourages persistence in seeking, emphasizing continuing "until" results come. Psalm 119:105 Supports the idea of "lighting the lamp" through God's Word for clarity and direction. Proverbs 4:25–27 Reinforces focus and removing distractions while pursuing what matters. Hebrews 12:1 Highlights the importance of clearing out obstacles that hinder progress. Galatians 6:9 Encourages perseverance, reminding that results come if we don't give up. 1 Thessalonians 5:16–18 Connects to the final step of celebrating and giving thanks after finding what was lost.

    34 min
  6. Episode 13: It's Okay to Be Calm

    Apr 28

    Episode 13: It's Okay to Be Calm

    In this episode of Walking Close, Living Changed, Brian Opbroek explores a rarely discussed struggle: how to live in peace after the storm. Using the image of a sailor who can't relax after surviving rough seas, he explains how many people stay stuck in survival mode—expecting chaos even when life has calmed. While most teachings focus on trusting God during hardship, Brian shifts the focus to what comes after, reminding us it's okay to rest when the storm has passed. Drawing from real-life challenges and Acts 27–28, where Paul survives a storm and lands on Malta, Brian highlights a powerful lesson: peace is not laziness—it's restoration. Like Paul shaking off the snake, we're called to embrace calm without fear. He closes by emphasizing that peace is a gift from God—and learning to receive it is part of spiritual maturity.   Key Topics Discussed Hypervigilance and anticipatory anxiety after trauma The difficulty of embracing peace after hardship Trusting God not just during storms—but after them The symbolism of Malta as a "sweet place" of restoration Choosing calm even when it's challenged Letting go of fear that the storm will return Not allowing others' opinions to disrupt your peace The difference between rest and laziness Using seasons of calm for restoration and preparation Becoming a source of healing and hope for others   Relevant Scriptures Acts 27–28 – Paul's storm, shipwreck, and restoration on Malta Mark 4:35–41 – Jesus calming the storm Hebrews 4 – Entering God's rest Matthew 8:14–15 – Jesus heals Peter's mother-in-law Mark 16:18 – Protection from harm (referenced with the snake bite) James 1:17 – Every good and perfect gift comes from God 1 Kings 19 – Elijah's despair after victory Book of Jonah – Struggling to accept God's mercy after obedience Job (various passages) – Enduring others' opinions during suffering

    34 min
  7. Episode 12: A Giving Heart is a Gauge

    Apr 21

    Episode 12: A Giving Heart is a Gauge

    *]:pointer-events-auto scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" data-turn-id= "request-WEB:38930692-01cd-40fd-87b1-2dcad1ac7e9c-28" data-testid= "conversation-turn-2" data-scroll-anchor="true" data-turn= "assistant"> In this episode, Brian wraps up his three-part series by focusing on giving—the third spiritual discipline from Matthew 6. After prayer and fasting, he explores how generosity is not just financial, but deeply spiritual. Brian explains that giving, like prayer and fasting, is meant to humble us and draw us closer to God—but it can easily become performative if done for recognition. Using Jesus' teaching, he reminds us that God values what's done in secret and that giving ultimately reveals the condition of our heart. This isn't about earning blessings or prosperity thinking. It's about alignment. True generosity shows up not just in money, but in how we give our time, energy, and attention to others. Through biblical examples and real-life moments, Brian makes one thing clear: God isn't after appearances—He's after your heart.   Key Topics Discussed The third spiritual discipline in Matthew 6: giving How prayer, fasting, and giving all humble the believer The difference between generosity and performative giving Why giving should be done in secret Giving as a gauge of the heart "Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also" The difference between blessing and generosity Why wealth is not the true measure of spirituality The widow's mite as a model of true giving Abraham's life as an example of surrender and generosity Modern-day examples of practical generosity The warning of Ananias and Sapphira Simon the sorcerer and the danger of transactional thinking Giving yourself away as evidence of faith   Relevant Scriptures Matthew 6:1–4 "Be careful not to practice your righteousness in front of others to be seen by them…" "When you give to the needy, do not announce it with trumpets…" Matthew 6:21 "For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." Matthew 6:24 "You cannot serve both God and money." Luke 21:1–4 The widow's offering / widow's mite Genesis 12 Abraham leaves his homeland in faith Genesis 13 Abraham gives Lot first choice of the land Genesis 14 Abraham gives to Melchizedek Genesis 22 Abraham's willingness to offer Isaac Acts 4:32–37 Barnabas gives generously Acts 5:1–11 Ananias and Sapphira Acts 8:18–24 Simon the sorcerer tries to buy spiritual power 2 Corinthians 9:7 "God loves a cheerful giver."

    34 min
  8. Episode 11: The Rewards of Fasting

    Apr 14

    Episode 11: The Rewards of Fasting

    In this episode, Brian continues exploring Jesus' teaching from Matthew 6 by focusing on the spiritual discipline of fasting. Just as Jesus said "when you pray," He also said "when you fast," showing that fasting is meant to be a normal part of a believer's life. Brian explains that fasting isn't about drawing attention to ourselves, but about humbling our hearts and focusing on God. He also clarifies that fasting can take many forms—giving up food, media, or other distractions—in order to intentionally seek the Lord. Using examples from Scripture including Daniel, Esther, Ezra, and Jesus, Brian highlights five rewards that often accompany fasting: spiritual insight, favor in difficult situations, stronger faith, resistance to temptation, and deeper humility. This episode serves as a practical introduction and encouragement to begin incorporating fasting into your life as a way to walk closer with God.   Key Topics Discussed Jesus' teaching on fasting in Matthew 6 Fasting as a spiritual discipline alongside prayer and generosity The importance of fasting in secret rather than for recognition Different forms of fasting (food, media, speech, and other distractions) Biblical examples of fasting from Daniel, Esther, Ezra, and Jesus Five rewards of fasting: insight, favor, faith, resistance to temptation, and humility Personal testimony about fasting and prayer The role of humility in the Christian life   Relevant Scriptures Matthew 6:16–18 – Jesus' teaching on fasting in secret Daniel 5:12 – Daniel's wisdom and spiritual insight Acts 9:9–18 – Paul fasting after his encounter with Christ Esther 4:15–16 – Esther calling a fast before approaching the king Ezra 8:21–23 – Ezra proclaiming a fast for protection and guidance Matthew 4:1–11 – Jesus fasting and resisting temptation in the wilderness Isaiah 58 – The heart of true fasting James 4:10 – Humble yourselves before the Lord and He will lift you up

    36 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
9 Ratings

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Real-life transformation begins with God's presence. This podcast invites you to walk closely with God and be changed from the inside out.

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