04-02-25 part 1: Kindness, Kingdom, and the Power of Prayer: Living the Gospel Out Loud

1. Choose Kindness Over Criticism

The show begins with a heartfelt call from Susan, who shares a deep truth about overcoming a critical spirit through intentional kindness. Dr. David Spoon affirms that kindness is not optional for Christians—it’s a fruit of the Spirit and a mark of spiritual maturity. They discuss how our culture often focuses on faults, even when someone does 97 things right and one thing wrong. That fault becomes the obsession, which Spoon calls “a sick and ungrateful heart.” Instead, believers are called to speak life, disarm conflict with compassion, and reflect Jesus through their words and attitudes. The message is simple but powerful: don’t be a jerk—be like Jesus.

2. Kindness Changes the Atmosphere

Susan and David dive deeper into the idea that kindness can shift a room. A gentle word, even in a tense moment, can tear down walls, disarm pride, and silence the accuser. Susan shares how, when she struggles to act kindly, she asks the Holy Spirit to love through her—an honest prayer that resonates with anyone battling unforgiveness or pride. Spoon emphasizes that our words have power, echoing Proverbs 18:21: “Life and death are in the power of the tongue.” When we bless others instead of cursing them—especially when it’s hard—we are waging spiritual warfare the Jesus way.

3. Praise Reports and Prayer Power

The tone shifts to celebration as Sergio calls in to share an answered prayer. After days of anxiety, he prayed with faith and saw God move in a tangible way. Spoon rejoices with him and leads a prayer of thanksgiving, reminding listeners that God hears and acts when we call out to Him. It’s a moving reminder that faith is not theoretical—it’s active, relational, and powerful. Later, the show turns to intercession as David prays for Jennifer’s father, who is hospitalized. The prayer is personal, passionate, and filled with trust in God’s healing hand and peace-giving presence.

4. Prayer, Faith, and a Personal God

Wrapping up, Spoon dives into Psalm 63 and the importance of personal relationship with God. “O God, You are my God” is David’s declaration in the wilderness—a reminder that even in dry places, God is near and He is ours. Spoon connects this to our everyday spiritual journey: we pray because God invites us into fellowship, not religion. Prayer isn’t reserved for crises; it’s a continual relationship. And yes, we’re all a little radical in our faith—believing in a Savior we’ve never seen with our eyes. But that’s what makes faith so powerful. It pleases God, draws us near, and reminds us that we are not alone.